Read Online Queen of Diamonds by Bárbara Metzger - Free Book Online

family must have great confidence in your abilities.”
    Mr. John George Browne’s chest swelled further at the lovely lady’s interest and discernment. Few women, especially such paragons as Madame Lescartes, gave him a second glance. Which was why, perhaps, he expounded on his own background and blessings. “I am by way of being a protegé of Lord Carde’s, the captain’s brother, of course. My family does a small service for his lordship, keeping charge of Mr. Sloane, Lady Carde’s brother, who caused the whole mingle-mangle of the missing girl in the first place, no matter how they tried to keep that bit quiet. He is dicked in the nob.”
    At Queenie’s questioning look, he tapped his temple. “Touched, you know. But the family would not want him in a Bedlam, for the world to see and belittle. So my parents keep him at their inn outside of town, making certain he cannot cause any more trouble or scandal. My brothers watch over him, although my sister mostly keeps him company. In addition to his generous fees, the earl sent me to university, and then recommended me to Captain Endicott for this post. His lordship feels I can go far, with experience and the proper backing.”
    â€œI am sure you shall, Mr. Browne.”
    Hellen stepped closer. The sandy-haired, bespectacled bloke was a man of means and potential? A family business, an earl’s favor? She flashed him a wide smile, making sure to show her dimples. “You must be a very intelligent man, Mr. Browne.”
    Browne blushed red. “I, ah, hope I do not disappoint the earl, miss.”
    â€œPettigrew, Miss Hellen Pettigrew, with two l’s.”
    Queenie interrupted before Hellen could give the poor man her address, or another pat on his now trembling hand. “But are you succeeding in your quest, Mr. Browne? Have you filled the school’s roster of instructors?”
    Now Browne had to tear his eyes from the two dimples to look at Madame Lescartes. “Nearly so, except for a few places, since the school cannot open until reconstruction is complete.”
    â€œYou shall need a competent sewing instructor if you hope to improve the girls’ lots in life. Such knowledge will give your students opportunities for honest, gainful employment.”
    â€œYes, teaching practical skills is to be part of their education.”
    â€œThen I shall apply for the position.”
    Hellen stopped smiling. “I thought you were set on designing your gowns and making your mark in the world of fashion, Que—Ouch. That is, queer start, if you ask me.”
    Queenie raised her chin. “I can do both. And I can further the school’s efforts by hiring its graduates. That must be the captain’s intentions, to see his pupils settled in worthwhile careers.”
    Mr. Browne looked from one to the other of the women, bewildered at this latest turn. Were the females dealers, doxies, or do-gooders? He had no idea.
    â€œDo not concern yourself, sir. I shall take up my proposition with Captain Endicott himself,” Queenie insisted. “If you would inform him that I wish to confer on a matter concerning the advancement of education?”
    Browne shook his head, wishing he truly could hand this confusion over to his employer. “I am afraid Captain Endicott is not conducting interviews. Nor Mrs. Captain Endicott either, for that matter. They are not here.”
    â€œThen I shall call at Carde House. I believe that was where the captain’s wife and his ward were residing.”
    â€œThey are not there either, nor the earl and his lady. They’re all in Northampshire for Lady Carde’s lying-in, and bride visits. They won’t return until the school is ready to open, perhaps in late spring when the roads improve.”
    â€œSatan’s small clothes,” Queenie cursed, not bothering with the French or keeping her voice lowered.
    * * *
    This time Harry could not ignore the