Part 14 (1/2)

”It means, Blount, that I will make a list of all the improvements that will need to be done to turn this inn into one rivalling the Barbican Arms, at least in profit. There's no reason it shouldn't. Improvements such as a thorough whitewas.h.i.+ng inside and out, all the timber polished, present bedding discarded and fresh bought, all furniture polished and crockery replaced. And the kitchen needs a range.” Lucinda paused to meet Blount's eye.

”Ultimately, you will employ a good cook and serve wholesome meals continuously in the tap, which will be refurbished accordingly. I've noticed that there are few places at which travellers staying in this town can obtain a superior repast. By providing the best fare, the Green Goose will attract custom away from the coaching houses which, because of their preoccupation with coaching, supply only mediocre food.”

She paused but Blount only blinked at her.

”I take it you are interested in keeping your position here?”

”Oh--yes, ma'am. Definitely! But ... where's the blunt coming from for all that?”

”Why, from the profits, Blount.” Lucinda eyed him straitly.

”The profits before your wages are deducted and before the return paid to the company. The company considers such matters as an investment in the inn's future; if you're wise, you'll consider my suggestions in light of an investment in your future.”

Blount met her gaze; slowly he nodded.

”Yes, ma'am.” ”Good!” Lucinda rose.

”I will make a copy of the improvements I'll be suggesting to the company and have my groom drop it by tomorrow.” She glanced at Blount as he struggled to his feet; his expression suggested he was still reeling.

”Mr Mabberly will look in on you in a month's time, to review your progress.

And now, if there's not bAng else, I will bid you good day, Blount.”

”Yes, ma'am.” Blount hurried to open the door. ”Thank you, ma'am.” He was clearly sincere.

Lucinda regally nodded and sailed from the room. Reluctantly impressed, Harry followed close behind.

Still inwardly amazed, he waited until they were back on the pavement, she gliding along with her nose in the air as if she had not just taken on Goliath and won, before catching her hand, neatly trapping it on his sleeve.

Her fingers fluttered, then stilled. She cast him a quick glance, then studiously looked ahead. Her groom followed two paces behind, her ledgers clutched in his alias.

The young traveller who had been slouching in the tap slipped out of the inn door in their wake.

”My dear Mrs Babbacombe,” Harry began in what he hoped was an even tone.

”I do hope you're going to satisfy my curiosity as to why a gently reared female, however well-equipped for the task, goes about interrogating her company's employees?” Unabashed, Lucinda met his. gaze; aggravation showed clearly in the green.

”Because there is no one else.”

Harry held her gaze. His lips thinned.

”I find that hard to believe.

What about this Mr Mabberly--your agent?

Why can he not take on the challenge of such as Blount? ”

Lucinda's lips quirked.

”You must admit he was a definite challenge.”

She slanted a deliberately provocative glance his way.