-9- Truth Be Told

Lady Winter and Laura reached the top of the stairs at the same time. They embraced and Laura told her aunt, "Do not worry, Uncle Simon will be all right. I heard his voice just now, as I passed his chambers. I believe my godfather is inside with him." Reassured by her niece's smile, her aunt led the way to the parlor. As they entered the room, Sir Harry stood up saying, "The doctor said your uncle was asking for Lord Stanton. He has been with him this past quarter hour." He glanced at Lady Winter, but clearly, he only had eyes for the young girl before him.

Offering an arm to each lady, he escorted them to the sofa. After the ladies took their seat, he settled into a chair, crossing his long legs, his boots reflecting the candles' glow. They discussed the accident and wondered aloud if they should postpone their departure for London. Her aunt said she was unsure if Uncle Simon would be allowed to travel.

Uncle Simon had also been included in Lady Winter's invitation to spend the upcoming season in the London townhouse. It had been rented for six months. The leasing agent had told her that it was very large, and would easily accommodate a big family.

Lady Winter shrugged her shoulders stating the obvious, "I am certain the good doctor will tell us his decision, just as soon as he joins us."

They did not have long to wait. Both Lord Stanton and Dr. Edwards entered the sitting room. The doctor outlined the care their relative would need. "Lady Winter, your uncle requires rest. I was told his man would be arriving tomorrow. Once I have examined him in the morning, I shall let you know my findings." He turned toward Lord Stanton and continued, "I really rather doubt he will be up to traveling tomorrow, but perhaps the day after. It all depends on his progress."

Bentley appeared in the doorway to announce that dinner was ready. The doctor politely refused Lady Winter's invitation to dine, because he was needed elsewhere. As he was leaving the house, he promised to return at once if needed. Otherwise, he would be back by nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

The men offered the ladies escort and they all walked into the dining room. Once seated, the servants served them Chef's delicious supper. They discreetly stood by and performed their duties beautifully.

The diners were unusually quiet, each lost in thought about Uncle Simon and their impending travel plans. Lady Laura thought again about the stranger she saw speaking with her uncle. Lord Stanton pondered the words the injured man had imparted. Lady Winter watched the expressions on Lord Stanton's face. Sir Harry seemed to be enjoying the food, all the while trying to muster the courage to ask Lady Laura to join him for a walk after dinner.

Upstairs, Alice stretched, yawned and jumped down from the bed. Noticing how wobbly her legs felt, she shook her head quickly, as if to clear her thoughts. The small cat walked slowly downstairs, occasionally bumping into the walls, table legs and anything directly in her path. Finding her way to where her mistress was sitting, she rubbed against Laura's leg emitting a faint meow, and Laura bent down to pet her.

"Alice, you're finally awake," she said. Alice walked over to stand beside the serving table, bumping into Alfred's leg and sitting down abruptly. Laura was out of her chair in an instant, scooping her up and telling her aunt, "I do not know what in the world is the matter with her. When I tried to rouse her earlier she did not respond normally. I do hope she is not ill," she said worriedly, a concerned look shadowing her face.

Just then, Chef Armand entered the room to ask Lady Winter how she found the dinner. As he noticed the cat, he and Alice exchanged telling looks. "Lady Laura," the Chef confessed, "Truth be told I caught your little Alice drinking from a cup of milk to which I had added brandy. She had consumed quite a lot before I could take it away from her. No doubt, she slept a long time." Everyone burst out laughing and the amused Chef returned to his kitchen to recount the tale to the household staff.

"Oh, Alice!" exclaimed a relieved Laura. "What will you get into next?" she asked, giving her pet a hug and kiss. Alice, looked smug and promptly fell asleep. A smiling Laura carried her to the drawing room. Laying Alice on the settee she covered her small body with a light shawl. Alice's purrs turned into loud snores and Laura sat beside her, stroking her pet's head. She was so glad nothing was wrong. Alice was very naughty drinking milk laced with brandy.

Standing up to rejoin the others, she noticed an object on the floor. Bending down, she picked up a small dark brown leather pouch. Looking inside, her mouth formed an Oh, for she was surprised by what she found.