Deliverance: A Justice Belstrang Mystery by John Pilkington (top 10 most read books in the world .TXT) 📗

then fixed me with his bland look. ‘Then, I fear you would shortly meet with an unfortunate accident,’ he replied. ‘I will be most distressed that it occurred on my land. You were enjoying the fishing, and suffered a seizure… a sudden jolt to the heart. The excitement was too much for you… with sadness, I will even show the great carp you caught in the lake, which caused your collapse.’

He paused to allow the words to sink in, then: ‘As it happens, the coroner is a friend. He’ll take my word as a gentleman, and direct the inquest jury to find you died of misadventure. A tragedy… but there it is.’

And there it was, stark as could be: either I joined the treacherous coterie of men who sold arms to the King’s enemies, or I would lose my life. I pretended to consider, then drew a breath and rose to my feet.

‘You can go to hell, sir,’ I said. ‘And more, you’ll not fake my death by accident… I’d rather die here!’

Whereupon, startling both Mountford and his servant, I stepped back swiftly and put hand to sword-hilt: something I had resolved never to do again. I even got the blade clear of the scabbard, before stone-deaf William was upon me. With ease he took hold of my wrist, twisted it so violently I cried out, and made me let go. My basket-hilt rapier fell to the floor with a clang… and in a moment I was forced to my knees, hissing with pain as the ruffian stood over me.

A moment passed, while both men looked down. Whereupon, at a brief nod from his master, William released me and stepped away. As he did so he picked up my sword, then moved beyond my reach.

‘So be it, Belstrang,’ was all Mountford said. With a sigh, he turned about and walked from the room, followed by his servant. The slamming of the door was followed by the sound of the key turning once again.

And thereafter, ex-Justice Belstrang lost control, flew to the door and hammered upon it with his left hand; the right one still throbbed. Finally, wretched and breathless, I ceased my raging and slumped to the floor, cursing like a soldier… while through the open window came the startled squawking of birds.

But at the final turn, I thought later, once again I had only myself to blame. I should have feigned acceptance of Mountford’s offer, and played along with his plans while I had the chance. Whether I would have convinced a man like him, however, remained in doubt.

***

I never did get breakfast that day, nor even dinner. Instead I paced the floor of the wide chamber, berating myself for my recklessness, which had won me nothing but contempt from a man who had no more scruples than a feral cat.

It was afternoon, as I sat listlessly on the bed, before the sound of the key turning at last broke my thoughts. Rousing myself, I seized my poniard and tried to prepare for the worst… until the sight of the one who entered made me freeze.

Maria Mountford, in a blue outdoor gown, stopped by the doorway, seemingly startled by my manner. In considerable surprise myself, I watched as the lady recovered herself, before turning to the door and listening… but she did not close it.

‘I will first disappoint you, sir,’ she said, facing me. ‘For I’m not come to offer such favours as Katherine did.’

And when I merely stared, she took a few paces forward. Getting hurriedly to my feet, I sought for some signs of her purpose – but in the next instant, I was confounded.

‘And now I will scotch that disappointment,’ she added. ‘For I intend to be your salvation.’

EIGHTEEN

Those last days of September, when the Great Comet finally disappeared from view, would be among the most important of my life. But I had no notion of it then, as I stood in that chamber at Foxhill and heard Maria Mountford’s words. I have called Captain Darrett an unlikely saviour, but the Mistress of Foxhill should surely take the prize. In astonishment, and with mounting hopes, I listened intently… and saw my escape laid out before me.

‘You will step outdoors with me,’ she said. ‘Some of the servants are aware of my intent, others are not. I should add that we have little time - are you ready to take a risk?’

‘I am, madam,’ I said warily. ‘Yet I don’t understand… do you mean to thwart your husband this way?’

‘Pray, do not concern yourself with Francis,’ came the reply. ‘He is very busy just now - and in truth, that’s thanks to you. He has messages to send, and people to meet with… or did you think the death of Tobias Russell, and the turmoil at Lydney, was of no concern to him?’

I remained silent.

‘Nay, sir…’ Mistress Mountford gave a sigh, and lowered her eyes; to my relief, she did not appear the worse for drink. ‘You have kicked a wasp’s nest… caused more upheaval than you know. And yet it had to come… indeed, I always knew that it would. But in any case, I suspect it’s too late.’

She went to the window and looked out, then turned to face me. ‘Well, shall we go? I’ve arranged for your horse to be saddled…’ and seeing me about to reply, she lifted a hand. ‘There’s no time for questions. Take this chance while you may. All I ask in return is that you speak for me when… when the time comes. Will you do that?’

I gazed at her – then a notion rose that stayed me. ‘Sir Richard,’ I said. ‘I will not leave without seeing him.’

‘But you must!’ For the first time the lady showed unease. ‘He’s well enough… whatever happens, I swear no harm shall come to him. Now