In the Barrister's Chambers Read Online Free PDF Page A

sunlight filtered through her curtains before dressing and knocking on her father’s door. She was surprised to find his room vacant, and when she rushed downstairs, she saw him dressed and sitting in the dining room. The servants had returned as expected, and the housekeeper, Mrs. Smith, entered carrying a steaming plate of eggs and biscuits.
    At the sight of Evelyn, Mrs. Smith’s eyes widened. “Lady Evelyn! I heard of last night’s occurrences. You should not be up, my lady. Your maid, Janet, has just returned with the rest of the staff. Perhaps you should spend the day in bed. I’ll send her to you right away.”
    â€œI’m well, Mrs. Smith. Thank you for your concern.” Evelyn smiled, glancing at the plate of food in her hand. “That smells delicious.”
    â€œRight away, my lady.” Mrs. Smith said, setting the plate on the table and rushing back in the direction of the kitchen.
    Evelyn took a seat beside her father, aware of his steady scrutiny.
    â€œI don’t suppose I can talk you out of your plans? You know I do not believe Randolph would make a good husband for you,” he said.
    Evelyn knew how her father felt. Although he liked Randolph and kept him as his University Fellow, he believed Randolph was not a good spiritual or emotional match for his headstrong daughter. Despite her father’s beliefs, Evelyn was convinced that she could change his mind regarding Randolph. If only the three of them could spend more time together, Lord Lyndale would see how truly intellectually compatible they were.
    At her silence, his brows drew downward in a frown. “I take it your mind is set on your other plans as well?”
    â€œIf you mean my soliciting Mr. Harding, then yes, my mind is set,” Evelyn said.
    Mrs. Smith returned with a full plate and placed it before Evelyn. As soon as the housekeeper departed, her father spoke up.
    â€œYou have acted hastily. Randolph may never be arrested. Furthermore, you should not have approached Mr. Harding directly, but should have gone through a solicitor,” he admonished.
    Evelyn shook her head. She knew the formalities, of course. If a person had a legal dilemma, they were to approach a solicitor, who dealt directly with the public. The solicitor, in turn, contacted the barrister, who alone was permitted to appear in court.
    â€œBut I wanted to ensure Jack Harding’s representation, not another barrister’s chosen at will by a solicitor,” she said.
    â€œThere are other barristers that owe me favors”—he raised a hand when she would interrupt—“but after last night, I do believe Jack Harding would be a good choice.”
    She took a quick sharp breath. “You do?”
    â€œHe is already acquainted with our family, and he was gracious enough to stay by our side last night. In addition, I too have been following his trial record. You are not the only one interested in such things, Evelyn.”
    Evelyn stiffened, momentarily abashed. “Of course not, Father. I never thought I was.”
    â€œHas Mr. Harding agreed to aid Randolph then?”
    â€œNot exactly . . .”
    â€œBut he was here last night?”
    â€œOnly to speak with you.”
    â€œAh, I see. He refused any subterfuge on your part.”
    â€œI believe that was his intent,” she said dryly.
    Lord Lyndale nodded. “Good. I’m even more comfortable with him then.”
    Evelyn watched him beneath lowered lashes as he finished his breakfast. Placing her fork down, she asked, “Father, do you believe what Mr. Harding said? That there is a connection between last night’s burglar and Bess Whitfield’s murder?”
    Lyndale looked up, his eyes narrowed. “I do not, but I’m not surprised he did. Highly successful criminal barristers like Jack Harding do not achieve their results by leaving any stone unturned.” Pushing his empty plate aside, he put down his napkin.