Читать книгу A Question of Time - Jamie Ashbird - Страница 6

‘I must congratulate you, Mr Watson.’

Lady Margaret Renthwhistle hooked her arm through John’s as he peered up at the stars.

‘Whatever for, Lady Margaret?’

‘Why, my dear, it is fifteen years today that you and Mr Holmes were acquainted.’

John’s jaw wavered. ‘I’m sure I don’t–’

‘Come, we’re old friends. Do you imagine me an innocent? The way you look at him, and he you? Like two ravenous imps.’

‘Madam, I assure you–’

‘Ah look, there’s Polly,’ she interrupted, pointing down into the garden. ‘And she has our bags.’

‘Your chambermaid?’

‘My chambermaid.’

John jerked out of her grip. ‘But Mr Holmes is–’

‘About to confront the lover my husband thinks stole the family jewels? Yes.’

A scream rang out from the ballroom beyond the balcony doors.

‘Best see to your man, Mr Watson.’

John cried out as Lady Renthwhistle leapt off the low balcony and ran into Polly’s arms.

‘Tell Mr Renthwhistle he can spend every deuced minute at the club now.’ And with a wave she and Polly dissolved into the night.

John raced back indoors to find Sherlock grappling with Lady Renthwhistle’s innocent lover. After pulling them apart and whispering in Sherlock’s ear, he helped both men off the floor. With lavish apologies and a nod to Mr Renthwhistle, they scarpered hand in hand from the ballroom.