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“Mr Trent” She haood measure “Mr Trent”

Did he say he would visit Queen Square before returning to Jaunay’s? She could not recall

The click of a key turning in the lock sent her stoht

“Miss Vale? Is everything all right?” Miss Triant day dress in cobalt blue “I heard a commotion Would you care to come inside?”

Verity shook her head and tried to caled to meet Mr Trent I’m sure he’ll be here soon”

The lady frowned at the mere mention of Mr Trent’s name “Men of a certain character can be unreliable Trust me I have met more than my share of scoundrels Won’t you come in and I can send for tea?”

“As I explained last night Mr Trent is an honourable gentleman” Verity’s sharp reply took Miss Trimble by surprise “There is no need for concern”

“Then why is he not here at the appointed time?”

The comment roused another bout of panic Perhaps she should send Sleeth to check the offices in Queen Square “He has si you”

Verity did not wait for a reply but hurried downstairs to blurt instructions to Sleeth

“You’re to go to Queen Square and see if you can locate Mr Trent” She gasped a breath “Failing that, visit Mr Cavanagh and Mr Wycliff and verify if both men accompanied him on his visit to Mr Layton”

“But Mr Trent wouldn’t—”

“Don’t argue, Sleeth Your master’s life may depend upon it” She thrust out her arer at the opposite side of the square “Go, before I climb up there and command the reins myself”

Love runtled coachman flicked the reins and set out on his journey She stood on the pavee circle the square before disappearing right into Bear Street

Taking a lanced up at the hotel’s facade to find Miss Tri, the lady beckoned Verity upstairs Perhaps she should take tea with Miss Trimble Persuade her as to the ation After all, it would soon beco to settle her heart while she waited