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This was yet another house-party that had far exceeded its welcome, Judith reflected. When the ladies removed to the drawing room, she excused herself to see where Baines had gone. She had also heard the noises in the hidden passage, and reasoned that she knew the house better than anyone should assistance be required.
Simmons appeared beside her with the expression he generally reserved for Sir Lionel’s more expensive mistakes.
“Miss Finch, might I have a word?”
“Is it urgent?” she asked as she continued walking.
He stepped in front of her in a most unusual fashion.
“Simmons, what are you doing? Please step out of my way.”
He hesitated. “You are needed in the… kitchens.”
Judith waved her hand dismissively. “Ask Mrs. Partridge to deal with it. I must attend to Major Baines.”
“I am afraid you cannot do that, miss.”
“What has happened?” Judith stopped and put her hands on her hips.
“I believe Colonel Renforth would be better placed to explain, miss.”
This was not a reassuring answer. “Where is he?”
“In Sir Lionel’s study.”
“Is my uncle with him?”
“Yes, miss.”
“Is Major Baines there too?”
Simmons’s expression remained admirably composed. “No, miss.”
Judith stared at him.
“Where is Major Baines, Simmons?”
“I am not at liberty to say.”
“You are my uncle’s butler, not an officer in His Majesty’s Intelligence Service.”
“Indeed, miss.”
“Then I suggest you remember where your loyalties lie.”
Simmons looked pained. “My loyalties have never been in question, Miss Finch.”
Judith immediately regretted the remark. Simmons had served the family since before she was born, and his loyalty to Sir Lionel had survived several financial disasters, two regrettable engagements, and the unfortunate incident involving the ornamental fountain and a visiting bishop.
“I beg your pardon, Simmons, I know they have not. But something has happened, and I have no intention of being sent to the kitchens while everyone else decides what I ought to know.”
The butler’s expression softened almost imperceptibly.
“I was instructed to prevent you from entering the western passage, miss.”
“By whom?”
“Major Baines.”
