The Lyon’s Alliance (The Lyon’s Den Connected World)

Chapter Seventeen

Tuesday, May 1, 1821

Late Afternoon

C hristina basked in the luncheon’s success both for the event itself and the acceptance of the astronomy project. She gathered the evening edition of the London Chronicle from the foyer table and entered the drawing room. She made herself comfortable and opened to the gossip page.

Whispers from the Ton

Rumor has it that all is not as it seems within the esteemed circles of high society. Astute observers have noticed a particular gentleman’s sudden rise to prominence, accompanied by lavish displays of wealth and influence. Coupled with the abounding whispers of clandestine meetings and mysterious transactions, all cast a shadow of doubt over his newfound success.

Furthermore, speculation swirls regarding a recent scandal involving misappropriated funds from F&TCM, the well-respected financial house. Could there be a connection between these rumors and a certain esteemed gentleman who has recently been seen star-gazing with one of London’s most admired young ladies? Only time will tell whether these whispers hold any truth or are merely the product of idle gossip.

In other news, society’s eyes are drawn to an upcoming gala event, where glittering chandeliers and elegant ball gowns will provide the backdrop for whispered conversations and clandestine rendezvous under the guise of a charity event. Will the secrets of the ton be revealed under the glow of candlelight, or will they remain shrouded in mystery, known only to those with a keen eye for intrigue?

Keep your eyes open for more from the heart of London’s social circles.

Mrs. Murthy came into the room with afternoon tea.

“Is Mother joining me?”

“Your mother is finishing up at the bookshop. I think she’d rather be there than with your father.”

Christina glanced into the hall at the stairs. “I should go up to him.”

“Not at all. Let’s just say your father encouraged your mother to go to the bookshop.”

“What has him so upset?” Her mother could be a bit overbearing. He constantly reminded her, ‘ This isn’t how we did it when I served.’ “Was she fluffing his pillows incorrectly again?”

“No. This time, it was about some officer he served under. According to your father, the man should have been shot.”

Christina shook her head and placed the London Chronicle on the table. “At least there is no mention of me or Wolf in the paper.”

Mrs. Murthy nodded knowingly. “Oh, I understand Mr. St. John is the new target.”

“Richard?” She gathered up the paper and scanned the columns. After a moment, she looked up at Mrs. Murthy. “I don’t see him mentioned.”

“Not by name.” Mrs. Murthy shook her head. “But with what is insinuated.”

Christina’s mouth opened slightly in surprise, her thoughts whirling as she attempted to grasp Mrs. Murthy’s meaning. “What do you mean?”

Mrs. Murthy stood before Christina, her posture rigid as she clasped her hands in front of her.

“Are you saying,” Christina’s voice dropped to a whisper, “that Richard is the ‘esteemed gentleman?’ But how can that be?” The information left Christina dumbfounded.

“I couldn’t believe it either.” Mrs. Murthy leaned in closer, her voice hushed. “I heard it at the market from Mrs. Abernathy.”

Christina’s heart sank at the mention of Mrs. Abernathy. The woman was infamous for her accuracy in gossip, her network of informants stretching from her husband’s stewardship at The Palladium Association, one of London’s elite men’s clubs, to the heart of the city’s social circles. With a family as large as hers, there seemed to be a sibling in service in every notable house in the city.

“Does Richard know?” Christina’s concern deepened, her mind racing with the implications of such scandalous rumors.

The May morning was a blend of brisk air with a promise of warmer weather. The River Thames glistened in the morning light. The parks and trees were sprouting new leaves, and the season’s first blossoms added splashes of color to the landscape. In Hyde Park, Wolf rode alongside Edward Dalley. The rhythmic sounds of their horses provided a soothing backdrop to their idle chatter.

“Been to the racetrack lately?” Dalley inquired, a casual start to their conversation.

Wolf, caught off guard by Dalley’s sudden interest in horseflesh, played along. “Saw a promising three-year-old, but the odds aren’t in her favor. Why? Thinking of dabbling in racing yourself?”

Dalley chuckled, dismissing the idea with a wave of his hand. “Just curious about your pursuits, my friend.”

Their conversation meandered until Dalley’s tone shifted, probing. “Speaking of pursuits, Richard St. John’s been quite the benefactor lately. His contributions to that astronomy program—extravagant, wouldn’t you say?”

Wolf’s expression remained unreadable, his mind racing. “Haven’t paid much mind to it. But now that you mention it, the figures do appear generous.”

Dalley leaned in, lowering his voice. “Generous indeed. One has to wonder if there’s more to it than mere philanthropy.”

Wolf maintained a composed exterior, though Dalley’s probing questions sent a ripple of caution through him. “The ton does relish a good mystery,” he replied with a noncommittal shrug. “And as for charity, well, it’s the season for generosity, isn’t it?”

They continued their ride, the tranquility of the park now laced with the subtle tension of their dialogue.

Later, at a café, Wolf and Dalley sipped tea as the conversation turned to lighter topics. Dalley shared his latest financial venture, and Wolf listened with genuine interest.

“You have my thanks for a good ride. We must do it again.” Dalley stood, Wolf glancing at him.

“Same here,” was all Wolf said as the man left. Dalley’s departure left him alone with his thoughts and the remnants of their conversation. The seed of doubt he’d sown was subtle, yet deliberate. If Dalley’s suspicions were indeed sparked by the gossip column’s insinuations, all Wolf had to do now was wait and watch the ripples spread.

Richard approached the entrance to The Palladium Association, where a group of men stood at the door in deep conversation. One or two glanced in his direction. He acknowledged them with a touch to the brim of the hat. Their response was a collective glance, their eyes revealing a chilly reserve that hinted at an underlying friction. He had gotten the same uncomfortable feeling earlier when he went to The Society.

“Richard, fancy seeing you here,” a voice called from across the street.

Richard turned to see his friend, Dalley, waving him over with a friendly smile.

“Dalley, it’s good to see you.” The last time he saw Edward Dalley was at Tattersalls. “Have you decided on the mare? I understand she is still for sale.” However, he did wonder where the man would get the money. He did not have deep pockets.

Dalley laughed. “I looked more carefully at her statistics. If I bought her, she’d be a high-priced cart pony. Besides, it was only a folly—nothing to take seriously.

“I’m glad I came across you.” Dalley took on a more serious attitude. “Is everything all right, Richard? You seem a bit…distracted.”

Richard shrugged, dismissing Dalley’s observation with a casual wave of his hand. His gaze briefly met Dalley’s. “Just the usual club chatter on my mind,” he said, keeping his tone light. “You know how it is—never a dull moment.”

Dalley nodded understandingly, though the concern still lingered in his eyes. “Well, if you ever need to talk about it, you know where to find me,” he offered, clapping Richard on the shoulder.

“Nasty business, this embezzler. Have you been impacted?” Dalley’s question sent a shiver down Richard’s spine, not from fear for his own finances, but from the chill of suspicion that seemed to hang in the air.

“No, not at all,” he replied, trying to sound unaffected. “And you?”

Dalley shook his head. “Thankfully, I’ve been spared any trouble. What about your involvement with the Society and the education program? Has that been affected?”

Richard maintained his composure. “I reviewed my accounts with my man once I heard about the issue. The news has made everyone nervous, but I’ve had no issues. You coming inside?”

“I would like to, but I must hurry to an appointment with Lord Vanbrooke. It was a pleasure to see you. We must make arrangements to meet soon and exchange news.” Dalley tipped his hat and made his way down the street.

Richard gazed at his club’s door. Two members standing by the entrance glanced at him then abruptly turned away, giving him no time to acknowledge them. He quickly lost interest in sitting in the drawing room. A walk would do him good.