Читаем A Dangerous Fortune (1994) полностью

Damn Tonio to hell. He was clever--and Papa was a fool, to run his mines like slave camps and then expect to raise money in the civilized world.

But what was to be done? Micky racked his brains. Tonio had to be silenced, but he would not be persuaded or bribed. A chill descended over Micky's heart as he realized he would have to use cruder, riskier methods.

He pretended to be calm. "May I see the article, please?"

Augusta handed it to him.

The first thing he noticed was the hotel address at the top of the paper. Putting on an air of insouciance that he did not feel, he said: "Why, this is no problem at all."

Edward protested: "But you haven't read it yet!"

"I don't need to. I've seen the address."

"So what?"

"Now that we know where to find him, we can deal with him," Micky said. "Leave it to me."

Chapter THREE

MAY

Section 1

SOLLY LOVED TO WATCH Maisie getting dressed.

Each evening she would put on her dressing jacket and summon her maids to pin her hair up and thread it with flowers or feathers or beads; then she would dismiss the servants and wait for her husband.

Tonight they were going out, which they did most evenings. The only time they stayed in, during the London season, was when they were giving a party. Between Easter and the end of July they never dined alone.

He came in at half-past six, in his dress trousers and white waistcoat, carrying a large glass of champagne. Maisie's hair was decorated with yellow silk flowers tonight. She slipped out of her bedroom gown and stood naked in front of the mirror. She did a pirouette for Solly's benefit then began to dress.

First she put on a linen chemise with a neckline embroidered with flowers. It had silk tapes at the shoulders to tie it to her dress so that it would not be seen. Next she drew on fine white woolen stockings and fastened them just above her knees with elastic garters. She stepped into a pair of knee-length loose cotton lawn drawers with pretty braiding at the hems and a drawstring waist, then put on yellow silk evening slippers.

Solly picked up her corset from its frame and helped her into it, then drew the laces tight at the back. Most women were helped to dress by one or two maids, for it was impossible for a woman to manage the elaborate corset and gown alone. However, Solly had learned to perform these services himself rather than go without the pleasure of watching.