‘Even if it meant ending his employment here?’ Riley asked.
‘But not our friendship,’ she said assuredly. ‘The dear boy was devoted to me.’
Salter sent Riley a raised eyebrow look that reflected disbelief.
‘And Philip had no objection to the cash outlay?’ Riley asked.
‘It was none of his business, and I didn’t consult him on the matter. I kept control of my own fortune when I married; I insisted upon it. It was the only way to be sure that Philip wasn’t marrying me because of it.’
She couldn’t quite keep the hurt out of her voice and Riley knew why. She had been rejected by society because of her indiscretions, yet she had refused to accept the respectability of a marriage based on the need for financial gain, perhaps explaining why she had not married into the aristocracy.
‘How much had you agreed to advance to Dawson?’ Riley asked.
He let out a low whistle when Ida told him.
‘What did your children have to say on the matter?’ Salter asked.
Ida shrugged. ‘They didn’t know. Well, I don’t think they did. I certainly didn’t tell them. Anyway, what difference would it have made to any of them? It might seem like a large amount but it’s actually a very small part of a fortune that’s been invested and increased nicely over the years. My children have all been taught that they must work for a living and not have expectations. Well, the boys anyway. Sarah is happily and comfortably married and I dare say there will still be plenty left for them to inherit when I turn up my toes—if I decide that any of them deserves to benefit.’
‘Very well, Ida. That will do for now. Thank you. We shall consult with Gregg and then speak with all the downstairs staff.’ Riley bowed over her hand. ‘We will let you know as soon as we have any news.’
‘Thank you, Riley,’ she said as a tear rolled down her cheek. ‘You know, I really am devastated. Perdition, that boy well and truly got under my skin.’
Riley could see that she meant what she said and felt a great deal of sympathy for her. ‘Saying I am sorry seems inadequate,’ he said softly.
‘Yes well, my critics will say that Ezra’s loss is punishment for my sins, but fortunately I never listen to criticism. Ring the bell for Gregg, if you would, Riley. I will tell him the sad news and make sure everyone talks to you.’
‘Thank you,’ Riley replied, doing as he was asked. The two policemen stepped out of the room, offering Ida some privacy in which to consult with her butler.
Chapter Two
‘You might have given me a bit more warning, sir,’ Salter said, swiping the back of his hand across his brow.
Riley laughed. ‘Sorry, Jack. I knew you’d be offended, but there’s really no proven way of preparing anyone for Ida. She is quite simply a law unto herself, and if you can ignore her morals, she’s the greatest possible fun too.’
Salter sniffed. ‘I ought to be used to the unconventional ways of your lot after all my years in the job, but I’m still shocked time and again by the antics we unearth. Too much money and not enough to do to fill their time, if you ask me. Anyway, Dawson must have thought that all his Christmases had come at once when he picked on her. That fake attack and rescue is such a well-known con that I’m surprised her husband didn’t see through it and turf Dawson out on his ear.’
‘She probably played it down.’
‘Because she was immediately taken with Dawson, and he convinced her that her husband didn’t need to know the particulars? He knew Sir Philip would see straight through ’em and smell a rat.’
‘The possibility crossed my mind.’
‘And mine.’ Salter grunted with disapproval. ‘Well, I can tell you that there ain’t nothing wrong with Dawson’s old girl. I saw her myself just this morning and she was as right as rain until I told her that her son was dead. Whatever he needed time off for, it was nothing to do with his mother’s health.’
Gregg joined them in the entrance hall.
‘My mistress tells me that you wish to speak with me, my lord. With us all. You can conduct your interviews in this room, if that will be convenient.’
He led them into another parlour and closed the door behind them. Quietly.
‘Lady Randall has told you of Dawson’s death? His murder?’ Riley asked.
‘She has, my lord.’ Gregg showed not a flicker of emotion. ‘Most regrettable.’
‘For Dawson, it is indeed.’ Riley was accustomed to butlers who appeared to have been created from marble; no emotion or humanity permitted. They were supposed to rise above all crises and lead by example. Even so, there was something about Gregg’s attitude that rankled. Beneath that bland façade Riley was almost convinced that he detected signs of relief at Dawson’s demise. ‘What did you make of the man, Gregg?’
‘That is not for me to say,
