As Death Draws Near by Anna Lee Huber

thought of the Irish branch of my mother’s family. I didn’t even know for certain how my grandmother had felt about her relatives, though I had a very vague sense that she was happy to leave them in the past.
    â€œSo where are we going?” I asked, returning to the matter at hand. “The cottage where we’ll be staying? The Priory?” At least, that was what Lord Gage had called it.
    â€œI thought we’d pay a visit to the abbey first. We’ll be passing it anyway, and I’d like to speak with the mother superior to find out what details she can tell us as soon as possible.” Gage’s eyes cut to mine. “Besides, didn’t you say time was of the essence in regards to certain pieces of evidence?”
    I knew he was speaking of the body. We’d not been given the exact date of the murder, and I’d expressed worry over the amount of decomposition the nun’s corpse might have already undergone, particularly in the summer heat. At a guess, I estimated at least a week had passed, and I was already bracing myself for the level of putrefaction I would be forced to confront.
    I swallowed and turned away. “At this point, another hour won’t make much of a difference. It’s still going to be extremely unpleasant.”
    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Marsdale wince, guessing correctly what evidence we were referring to.
    â€œWell, regardless, I’d like to visit the abbey first,” Gage declared before giving him a hard glare. “Marsdale, would you like me to have the carriage stop at this tavern?” He tipped his head toward the window, where outside we were passing a thin, three-story building painted the shade of ochre with brown trim. “The Yellow House” was emblazoned above the door and windows in gold letters.
    We’d waited the entire trip for Marsdale to tell us whereto convey him, but since we’d turned on the road leading south, I’d begun to have a sneaking suspicion we were not going to be rid of him so easily. Though why he should wish to linger with us was beyond my fathom. Surely the marquess would enjoy whatever entertainments could be found in Dublin city far more than those here in the countryside. To be fair, he had been surprisingly quiet much of the journey, and he’d kept the majority of his ribald humor to himself, but I didn’t trust this good behavior to last.
    â€œNo. I know a fellow who lives nearby. I’m sure he’ll be quite happy to take me in.” His voice was lighthearted enough that I wanted to believe him, but I couldn’t, not until he’d actually been delivered to this friend.
    Evidently, Gage felt the same way. “Then the coachman can deliver you to this friend while we speak to the mother superior.”
    â€œNo need for that. I can join you and have the carriage take me once you’re settled at this Priory you mentioned.” He smiled his most amiable smile. “I wouldn’t wish to inconvenience you.”
    Bree scoffed at this last comment, continuing to stare out the window.
    I pressed my lips together to hide my amusement. However, Gage was focused on something I’d missed.
    â€œYou are not entering the abbey with us, Marsdale.”
    Some of his nonchalance began to slip. “Why not? I could be of assistance.”
    Gage arched an eyebrow at the absurdity of that statement. “How exactly? By questioning the nuns?” His voice was flat, suggesting nothing overtly, but I felt my cheeks heat at the hidden implication.
    Marsdale’s teeth flashed in a wide grin. “I bet I could charm them out of quite a lot. But no. That’s not what I meant.”
    â€œRegardless, I’m not going to allow you to make a nuisance of yourself.” His mouth twisted. “At least, not any more than you already have.”
    â€œOh, come now,” he wheedled. “I’m quite capable of behaving myself when the situation