Page 61
“A fever can come on rapidly.”
“Not while carrying fishing tackle.”
“Delirium, then. I seized the rod in a fit.”
Judith laughed despite herself, and Edward’s face brightened. “I knew you were still capable of it.”
“Capable of what, pray?”
“Laughing. You have been going about the house these past two days looking as though you have swallowed sour grapes.”
“I laugh perfectly often.”
“You smile politely. It is not the same thing.”
Judith stepped around him. “Perhaps I have simply lacked sufficient cause.”
Edward followed her towards the door. “Which brings us naturally to Major Baines.”
She stopped so abruptly, he nearly walked into her. “No, it does not.”
“It does from where I am standing.”
“You are standing in a draught with a fishing rod while avoiding an elderly baronet. I do not think your position entitles you to offer a commentary on anyone.”
“That is unkind. I have been watching Baines with considerable interest.”
Judith gave him a warning look. “If you have developed an interest in Major Baines, I suggest you cultivate it privately.”
Edward grinned. “I meant his interest in you.”
“There is no interest in me. He is the same with everyone in the house.”
“Is he, indeed?”
“He is quite intolerable.”
“That sounds promising.”
“He watches everything, asks questions about matters which do not concern him, appears wherever he is least wanted and smiles as though every objection merely confirms his opinions already formed.”
Edward considered this. “You have observed him very closely.”
Judith opened the door. “I observe everyone closely.”
“Indeed, you do.”
“Go and ride with Sir George.”
“I would sooner contract the fever.” Edward’s teasing softened into concern. “Do take care. Whatever Baines is about, he is plainly not here merely for Father’s wine cellar, and the north is too unsettled at present for political secrets to remain amusing for long.”
Her irritation returned at once. “Why does everyone insist upon telling me to be careful, as though I am like to wander into an armed rebellion by mistake?”
“Because you have always possessed the unfortunate belief that you can mend anything with competence.”
“I am walking to the village, Edward, not storming Edinburgh.”
“With you, the distinction may prove temporary.”
