Free A Debt From the Past by Beryl Matthews Page A

her future in prime order. It was distressing to discover that that was not the case.
    The door opened, and Jenkins came into the room. ‘Sir Peter Gresham has called to see you, my lord.’
    The book was tossed aside, and for a fleeting moment his expression was thunderous, but he was soon in control of his emotions again. ‘Tell him I am not at home.’
    Without another word, he stepped through the open door into the garden and strode away from the house.
    ‘Well!’ Beth was astonished at such conduct. ‘What do you think that was about, Jenkins?’
    ‘I would say his lordship has no liking for the gentleman,’ he remarked dryly.
    ‘So it would appear, and that I can understand, for I also find Sir Peter a rather unpleasant person, but one has to be polite.’ She frowned. ‘I was not aware that his lordship had any acquaintances here?’
    ‘Nor I,’ the butler said with a thoughtful expression. ‘Apart from his friend, Mr Edgemont, he appears to be a solitary man.’
    ‘That is the impression I had gained – you would have expected the whole district to come visiting as soon as word got round, but Sir Peter is the first one to call since he arrived.’ She settled herself elegantly in the chair and gave a mischievous smile. ‘You had better show him in; I shall entertain him myself.’
    Jenkins quickly checked that Helen was in her usual place on the window seat and then bowed. ‘I shall see that refreshments are served in five minutes.’
    Beth smiled to herself as she waited for her visitor to be shown in. This was the first time she had ever felt any pleasure at the prospect of meeting the gentleman. It was a novel experience.
    She rose to greet him. ‘How good of you to call, but I’m afraid Lord Sharland is unavailable.’
    ‘That is disappointing, Miss Langton, as I so wished to see him today.’
    ‘Perhaps you would allow me to take his place; it is an age since we met.’ She smiled and simpered, hating herself for acting like this, but she wanted to keep him here and find out why he had called.
    ‘Thank you; that is most gracious of you.’ He waited until she was seated again and then sat down.
    ‘I would not like to think that your visit was completely wasted.’ She gave that smile again and hoped it did not look like a grimace. ‘Ah, here is tea.’ She poured and handed him a cup. ‘Have you known Lord Sharland long?’
    ‘We have never met, but when I heard he had arrived, I thought I should pay a visit.’
    ‘He will be sorry to have missed you,’ she lied with aplomb.
    Sir Peter sipped his tea and then put the cup on the table. ‘He is your guardian, I understand.’
    ‘Yes, indeed.’ She smiled brightly again, but her instinct was urging her to be careful what she said. ‘He is a charming man and full of wonderful ideas for expanding the estate. After the unexpected death of my beloved godfather, I am fortunate to have such a wise guardian.’
    He nodded, but she did not miss the glint of curiosity in his eyes.
    ‘That was tragic, and I hope you will forgive me for calling so soon after your great bereavements?’
    ‘You are welcome, sir.’
    He smiled, sat back and crossed his legs. ‘I was not aware that the late Lord Sharland had any direct heirs?’
    ‘Really?’ She tried an innocent look. ‘He is a much-loved relative. He has lived abroad for many years – and that is why you have not heard of him before – but he has returned to shoulder his responsibilities.’
    Beth was aware of a feeling of danger. She had never liked this man – she had heard he was violent – and, for some inexplicable reason, she felt it imperative to protect his lordship. Which was ridiculous because he was clearly very proficient at protecting himself.
    ‘I see.’ He appeared to relax. ‘That would account for the fact that no one seems to know him.’
    Now it was time to change the subject. ‘And how is your sister?’
    ‘Distressed!’ He held his cup out for more tea. ‘Our