I knew why, of course. If Summerville wanted money and a career, Mrs. Chambers could give him neither. He would need the Wrights and their influence. Only the very rich or very poor could make a match in the demimonde without worry.

"A nasty day for such an errand," Mrs. Chambers said. "Please sit down, Captain. Would you like coffee? Or perhaps something against the damp?"

I took the armchair she indicated, noting that the cushions were, indeed, soft, and stretched my aching leg toward the fire. "I will not intrude upon you long. I will simply fetch the stick, if you have it, and go."

She sat in a smaller chair next to mine. I wondered whether I sat in Summerville's place, and she in the more ladylike chair next to it was the usual arrangement. If so, that arrangement was a cozy one.

"His walking stick?" she asked. "With the gold head?"

I nodded.

"I thought as much," she said. "He is always leaving it about."

I hoped she did have it. I would have liked nothing better than to sit in this friendly room and chat with the pleasant Mrs. Chambers instead of continuing my search in the cold rain. I'd remain here and return to Summerville later this afternoon.

"Why did he not simply call for it himself?" Mrs. Chambers asked. "Equally, he could have sent a note, rather than a friend loyal enough to soak himself in the attempt."

I returned a grateful smile and touched the top of my own walking stick. "I believe Mr. Summerville has pressing business, today. I was glad to oblige." That is, I had been regretting my hasty decision to help, but I was now much happier about it.

"You mean he is wooing the Wright girl," Mrs. Chambers said, her look turning wry. "Or rather, Miss Wright's father. You needn't worry, Captain. I know all about it."

She regarded me in amusement, and I felt sudden impatience with Summerville. "I beg your pardon. I did not mean to embarrass you."