The Sign of Death (Victorian Book Club Mystery 2)

“Yes, I noticed. I also noticed that Mr. Rawlings seemed to watch Davidson quite a bit.”

“Do you think he was jealous of his friend?” She grinned. Then the smile faded from her lips. “Do you suppose …” Then she shook her head. “No. That’s ridiculous.”

“What?”

“Nothing. Just ignore me, I had a silly idea for a moment.”

They finished their lemonade and then strolled the room, speaking with various friends and acquaintances.

“At least we now know the chances are good that our Mr. Davidson is the same Mr. Davidson in Harding’s ledger,” Amy said.

“Yes, most likely

so. What we need to do now is uncover why he was being blackmailed and then trace his movements at the time of the two murders.”

“We still don’t know why Miss Gertrude and Mrs. Barrows were being blackmailed.”

“Yes, that’s true. I wonder if there is a way to find out.”

Amy smiled as Aunt Margaret and Lord Pembroke passed by, dipping and swirling to the waltz the musicians played. “My lord, we have not danced all evening.”

William took her by the hand and led her to the dance area. The number was probably halfway over, but if Amy wanted to dance, they would dance.

A few hours later, having had his fill of dancing and socializing, William happily escorted Amy out of the Assembly building. Mr. Davidson and Mr. Rawlings had exited just before them. The four conversed as they awaited the arrival of their carriages.

It was the first time William had actually spoken to Mr. Rawlings, who had always kept his thoughts to himself at the meetings. “How are you enjoying our book club, Rawlings?”

“I do enjoy it. I realize I don’t contribute much, but I listen to what everyone else is saying. I find it quite interesting.” He paused for a moment. “I am looking forward to E. D. Burton’s appearance.” He looked directly at Amy. “I’m sure his arrival will be quite a surprise for everyone. Don’t you agree, Lady Amy?”

William’s eyes grew wide and he looked at Amy, who appeared to be stunned. She quickly recovered herself, however, and said, “Yes. I imagine it will be interesting to meet the author.”

Rawlings threw his head back and laughed. The other three just stared at him.

Just then Davidson’s carriage drew up. Rawlings entered first and Davidson followed. “Well, good night,” he said, and closed the door.

William’s carriage was next in line. He opened the door for Amy and climbed in after her. Once they were settled, the vehicle rolled forward. “What did Mr. Rawlings mean?” she asked.

“I have no idea. It was almost as if he knew you were E. D. Burton.”

“I know. How very strange. I don’t see how he would have that information.”

“Actually, we know so little about Mr. Rawlings. It’s possible he might know your identity. He might have some contact with your publisher for one reason or another.”

They continued on their way and soon were stopped in traffic. William glanced out the window and nodded. “I believe that is Davidson’s carriage right next to us.”

Amy turned her head to look. A gaslight on the other side of the street briefly lit the carriage before it rolled forward. A couple came into view, kissing. Amy sucked in a deep breath and covered her mouth. “That can’t be Mr. Davidson’s carriage!”

The vehicles began to move again, and William’s fell behind. He thought about what they’d seen and suddenly realized why Davidson had been blackmailed.

“Amy, I am not sure I should even be discussing this with you, but do you know anything about the book The Picture of Dorian Gray by Mr. Oscar Wilde?”

“Yes. I’ve read it.”

William ran his hand down his face. “Of course you have.”

“I am an enlightened woman, William. As an author, I must read everything. I cannot shield myself from any subject, no matter how displeasing society finds certain topics.”

“Well, if that’s the case, then you must realize what we just saw could very well have been Mr. Davidson’s carriage. In fact, that explains a lot.”