The unfilled box in the library left him with mixed emotions. It was as if the emptiness of the box symbolized the loss of what had been building between him and Harriet. He hoped that wasn’t true.
He dearly wanted to see how she was faring, especially given her upset the previous evening. Then again, he just wanted to see her.
One of the maids was passing by in the hallway when he emerged from the library.
“Pardon me, but have you seen Lady Harriet?”
“She’s left, my lord.”
His heart sank at the maid’s answer. How disappointing that Harriet hadn’t spoken with him beforehand. Surely, it was a bad omen that she’d departed without saying goodbye.
One thing was clear—there was nothing to keep him at Melbourne House any longer.
After a word with the butler, he entered the billiard room in search of Melbourne. Two other guests were bidding him goodbye, so Joseph waited his turn.
“Garland, we’ve enjoyed having you,” Melbourne said as he shook his hand, his smile warm.
“It’s truly been a pleasure, sir. You have a beautiful home and a wonderful family. Thank you for the hospitality.”
“You’re welcome. When would you like to meet to further discuss your proposal?”
Relief and a healthy dose of satisfaction filled him at the question. “Whenever you’re available. Will you return to London soon?”
“In a week or two. I’ll send a message to the other potential investors I mentioned to set a date when we can all meet.”
“I look forward to it.”
“Safe travels.”
Martin entered the room as Joseph was walking out and also shook his hand. “Thank you for coming.” Martin paused then leaned closer. “I understand you and my sister have become friendly.”
Joseph stilled, uncertain what to say. He’d thought the matter was resolved but perhaps that wasn’t the case. “She is a very nice lady.” What else could he say? He wasn’t about to pretend affection for her in order to convince Melbourne to invest, but neither did he want to proclaim that Miss Melbourne was sharing falsehoods.
Martin grinned. “That would certainly aid your efforts to interest my father in the bank. Perhaps we can arrange another gathering when we return to the city.”
“That would be enjoyable.” With a nod, he continued on his way, his thoughts churning, only to nearly run into Henderson. “Excuse me.” He didn’t bother to say goodbye.
“Garland. I’m sure you’ll be happy to know that I have a meeting with your father next week,” the reverend said with a smile that looked more like a smirk.
“To ask for yet anotherdonation?” Joseph kept his voice low but couldn’t halt the question.
“Who am I to deny the contributions he wishes to make to my church?”
“Why don’t you share what you do with the money you receive? Perhaps then I could be convinced to change my opinion.”
“I don’t owe you an explanation. But have no worry; the donations will be put to good use.” Henderson gave a single nod and strode toward Melbourne.
Joseph reminded himself that he was a guest here until he stepped out the door. Once he returned to London, he would deal with Henderson.
“Pay him no mind,” Martin whispered as he joined Joseph again at the entrance of the billiard room.
“If only I could.” Joseph shook his head. “I would like my father to see him for who he truly is.” As he watched, Henderson shook hands with Melbourne though Joseph couldn’t hear their conversation.
“Perhaps that will come to pass,” Martin suggested.
Joseph wished that were true but knew from experience that was rarely the case.
Soon, Joseph and Charles were on the train to London. He half-hoped to see Harriet and couldn’t hold back his disappointment when he didn’t.