Chapter 7

I unfolded it and read the words with widening eyes. It seemed that during an unprecedented run of luck at a faro’s den, Uncle Eustace had won a prime bit of horseflesh.

However, the message went on to state, since the animal is under my weight, I’m passing the colt on to you.

The action surprised me, and I wondered what was truly wrong with the horse; Uncle Eustace wasn’t usually so generous.

“Where is the colt?” I asked the groom.

“Right outside t’door, sir.” He stamped his feet and blew on his hands.

“Cook, see this man has something to warm him.”

“Thankee, sir. I could do with sommat.”

“You may as well stay the night. After you’ve eaten, I’ll have one of the grooms show you where you can put up your horse.”

“Already acting lord of the manor, Awful?”