Pomeroy shot a look at me and brightened. "The captain here knows many of the posh and upper classes. Maybe he could ask about who it belonged to."

Thompson eyed me with less enthusiasm. He didn't know me and had no reason to trust me, though it was not unusual for a civilian to assist in crime solving. The magistrates' offices had nowhere near the resources they needed to patrol the London metropolis, although the City of London itself had its own police. A citizen was expected to give chase and make an arrest when necessary as well as to bring perpetrators to court and prosecute them.

Thompson would use me as a resource if he could, though I would get no monetary compensation. Runners received rewards if criminals were convicted, but a gentleman like myself did not get paid as a thief taker. If I helped with an arrest and prosecution, it would be Thompson or Pomeroy who would reap the reward.

Thompson drew his forefinger and thumb down the sides of his mouth. "Do you think you could find out quickly, Captain? Every moment could take the murderer a step closer to the Continent."

"If he decides to run," Pomeroy said.

"I know a man who could possibly help," I said. "This is a prominent man's ring, and he knows prominent gentlemen's jewelers."

I could imagine Grenville's long nose quivering with interest when I presented the ring. Little exciting had happened since we'd concluded the regimental affair in the summer, and he had told me point blank last time we'd met that I needed to find him some new amusement.

Thompson nodded and dropped the ring into my hand. "Ask your questions, Captain. Tell me the answers tomorrow."

I liked that the man spoke quickly and decisively; he was deferential but not fawning. I gave him my word that I would keep him apprised of my success or lack of it, and he acknowledged it with the barest nod.