Read Online A Crimson Warning by TASHA ALEXANDER - Free Book Online Page B

flatter me,” he said, bouncing a bit as he stood. He was on tiptoes, giving himself an extra inch or so of height. “Gladstone’s in good form. But I do appreciate your confidence.”
    “I wouldn’t expect you to do anything but support your leader. You’re too well bred.”
    He smiled but said nothing.
    “I can’t thank you enough for your help,” I said.
    “I couldn’t be happier to provide you with assistance,” he said. “It’s a difficult path you’ve chosen, Lady Emily, but a worthy one. I wish you much luck with it.”
    “I know you agree with our principles, but can we count on your public support?” I asked.
    “You can be certain I shall never speak against the goals of the Women’s Liberal Federation.”
    It wasn’t the same as real support, but I reminded myself that he was a gentleman with the highest aspirations. Alienating a large part of the voting public would not serve him well. Should he ever become prime minister, then he might be in a position to take a firmer stand.
    At least I hoped so.
    “What do you think of all this red-paint business?” I asked.
    “Stuff and nonsense,” he said. “Petty gossip taken to a new level.”
    “But lives are being destroyed,” I said.
    “Lives have always been destroyed by such things,” he said. “This time, it’s being done for a larger audience, that’s all.”
    “Who do you think is responsible?”
    “Impossible to say, really. Who hasn’t felt tormented by the ton at one time or another?”
    “True,” I said. “But wouldn’t most people seek revenge against the individuals whom they felt harmed them rather than striking out at all of society?”
    “Most would, I suppose. But some people have a higher purpose than personal retribution.”
    “And you think that is a good thing?” I asked.
    “Heavens, no!” He brushed his sandy hair back from his face. “Although one could argue it’s time society had a good shaking up. That it lose some of its hypocrisy.”
    “I couldn’t agree more,” I said. “But there must be a better way to do it.”
    “I’m certain there is,” he said. “There are times, though, when the final result merits an unconventional approach. Even one that hurts people.”
    *   *   *
    Days passed before I had occasion to think of Mr. Foster again. I’d spent a relatively tedious afternoon at home receiving callers, when relief came in the form of Ivy and Jeremy. They’d arrived late, as close friends do, and we were all laughing as I described for them my adventures in Westminster.
    “But isn’t Mr. Foster the most handsome man you’ve ever seen?” Ivy asked. “Other than Colin, of course.”
    “Colin is much more handsome,” I said. “I grant you Mr. Foster is extremely easy to look at, and quite distinguished, though one does wish he was a little taller. He’s also smart, which more than makes up for any physical drawbacks. He quotes Byron with such finesse it’s almost unnerving.”
    “Unnerving?” Jeremy asked. “The only unnerving thing I see here is discussing the repulsively perfect merits of some other bloke. Have you ladies no hearts?”
    “You know we adore you, too,” I said. “But I do like Mr. Foster very much. He’s the closest thing we have to a modern Alexander the Great. Except, of course, that he hasn’t conquered anything yet.”
    “Wait until he’s prime minister,” Ivy said.
    “I don’t know how these bloody Etonians do it,” Jeremy said. “It’s bad enough they’ll walk over fire for each other to ensure they run the empire. I’ve learned to tolerate that with equanimity, because I’ve no interest in running it myself. But I won’t have them winning the hearts of all the ladies as well.”
    Davis opened the door. “Simon Barnes, madam.”
    “Thank heavens,” Jeremy said as the new arrival entered the library. “I’m in desperate need of reinforcements, Barnes. You’ve saved me.”
    Simon Barnes stood taller even than Jeremy. His black