There were three holes, about two feet deep, that had appeared overnight. The first was near the corner of the stable wall, the second was a few steps away from the front doors, and the last one was a few yards to the right of the second hole. Each hole was approximately two feet deep and about three feet wide.

Thankfully, they had been spotted before anyone, person or animal, had stepped in the holes and been injured. "And no one saw this happen?" I asked, glancing up. "Or heard anything in the night?"

"Billy didn't see or hear a thing," Mr. Walton said, referring to Mrs. Wallace's oldest boy who had taken on the job of stable boy. I couldn't afford a proper groom at the moment. "With the full moon last night, whoever did this wouldn't have needed a lantern. It was probably the best night for such a thing."

Billy's room was located above the stables, making him the only person who could have possibly heard any unusual noises. Whoever had dug these holes had been careful. The dirt was packed down from years of people and horses walking on it. It must have been very difficult to dig up. How long had it taken this person to dig three holes of this size?

"This is absolutely unacceptable," I said, straightening up from where I had been examining the ground. Not that I had expected to learn anything from an examination of the hole, but it had seemed like the thing to do. "Someone—Phaeton or a person—could have broken a leg in one of these."

Having witnessed firsthand someone with a broken leg, I understood just how serious such an injury could be. Mama still hadn't fully recovered from her broken leg, though she was getting about much more than before. Whoever had done this was extremely irresponsible!

But what could we do to stop it from happening again?

"Why did they choose this spot for treasure hunting?" I wondered, glancing between the holes. "Any idea why this particular place was chosen out of all of Pearsend's land? And why the garden, for that matter?"

"I don't have the faintest idea," Mr. Walton responded, sounding grim. "I dismissed the rumors of treasure as fanciful nonsense that only children would believe. It seems I was wrong to make that assumption given the situation."

"Any sensible adult should know better than to trespass on another person's property." That should have been obvious to anyone! "What kind of person would dare to dig holes and roam around the garden while we are at home, even while we are sleeping in our beds? It would take a bold person to do so much."

"Is it possible this is the work of more than one man?" my young steward asked. "It's odd that one person would sneak through the garden one night, and then suddenly dig holes by the stable the next. There doesn't seem to be any connection between the locations."

Worse and worse! How many fools believed this claim of treasure?

"Get Mr. Felton to help you and Billy with filling those holes. We don't want anyone getting injured," I instructed. I hesitated before I added, "I suppose all we can do is try to keep a stricter watch on the property from now on."

It felt like an inadequate solution, but I couldn't think of what else to do. There weren't enough of us to keep watch every hour of the night and keep the estate running during the day. And as much as I wished for more staff, it was simply not feasible.

"I will ask the tenant families if they've heard anything," Mr. Walton said with determination. "Perhaps we can piece together where this rumor began if we have more information. It's highly likely that someone fixated on finding treasure has mentioned it before."

I gave a quick nod and headed towards the house. However, I stopped after a few steps and turned around. "Before I forget, would you like to join me for dinner tonight?" I asked. "I promise it won't be too fancy."

In the midst of kicking dirt into the hole, Mr. Walton froze. "Dinner?"

"Yes. I am hoping that having another person present will make things go smoother tonight. I invited my sister's husband-to-be for dinner. You saw how my sister reacted earlier when I told her the news."

"Well, a wise man would refuse to be dragged into the middle of a lover's spat," he said. Then a grin appeared. "But a practical man never turns down a free meal. I'll be glad to join you and enjoy Mrs. Wallace's cooking."

"Good man," I said in approval. "We'll dine at six."

At least there would be one person I could have a sensible conversation with during the meal. And, in the event Philippa locked herself in her room, I would not be left with Talbot alone.

Either of those two outcomes would be fine with me.

~*~

In relative peace, I continued my examination of the accounts books. I had thought they had vanished with the previous servants, but since they had been found in a wardrobe upstairs, I had been studying them. I wanted to understand the contents as much of it as I could. Perhaps it would help me avoid the same fate as that of the previous owners.

Given the abhorrent accounts, I couldn't be surprised that the estate had been passed from person to person. After looking into the records for only three previous owners, it became clear none of them had managed the estate properly. Money had been wasted and squandered like water seeping through a cloth.

I had been warned by multiple people that Pearsend would need a fortune to be restored. If I had expected to complete all the repairs at once, it would have been impossible for me to afford. But I had meticulously prioritized the repairs and investments necessary, starting with the most crucial and working my way down. I was hopeful this plan would keep Pearsend from deteriorating, and what's more, it would reverse everything.

Though what I would do in the long run was still a mystery. I really couldn't envision myself living forever at Pearsend, but it was a property. I knew how many gentlemen longed for property and land of their own.

"Excuse me, Mr. Bywood." Molly's timid voice pulled me from my thoughts. The maid stood in the doorway, wringing her hands. "Mr. Jennings, the parish vicar, has arrived and is waiting to speak with you."

For a moment, I stared at her. It had only been a month since I moved to Pearsend, and I hadn't bothered to meet anyone in the neighborhood or attend any Sunday services. Both had been the least of my concerns when I needed to ensure the roof remained intact.

"Thank you, Molly. Did you take him to the drawing room?" I asked, finding my voice.

She shook her head, her hands twisting together even more. "I-I told him I would see if you were accepting visitors," she stammered. "He's waiting for you in the entrance hall."

Taking a deep breath, I stood up. Molly was young and still learning her responsibilities. It wouldn't be fair for me to become upset with her over something that she didn't know. I'd just have Davison or Mrs. Wallace remind her that guests were not usually left in the hall.

"Thank you, Molly. Please bring a tea tray to the library for myself and the vicar," I instructed.

Nodding, she turned and hurried out. I followed at a slower pace. My mind raced with possibilities. Throughout my life, I had encountered vicars who were strict and stern, but also those who simply went through the motions of their spiritual duties. What sort of vicar was I about to meet?

In the entrance hall, a tall, thin man stood with his hands behind his back. He didn't appear to be young, but he also wasn't hunched over with age. "Good afternoon, sir," I greeted, holding out my hand. "I am Lucas Bywood."

"Well, well, the elusive and mysterious Mr. Bywood," he said, turning to face me. He made a formal bow before straightening to shake my hand. "I am delighted to finally meet you. I am Mr. Abner Jennings, the vicar of this humble parish."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Jennings," I responded, unsure whether I should take offense or not. "I wouldn't say I am elusive. Anyone who wants to find me can easily do so."

The man nodded vigorously. "True, true. Though you can't blame anyone for thinking that you'll give up on the project."

"I'm not one to give up without giving something my best effort."

Clearing his throat, Mr. Jennings gave an understanding nod. "Of course! Of course! Completely understandable."

"Do you have any information on a supposed treasure located at Pearsend?" I asked. If he'd been in the area for a while, he might know of any rumors or tales surrounding the topic. "I've only recently been made aware of the story."

For a moment, Mr. Jennings stared at me with a puzzled expression in his blue eyes. "Treasure?" he repeated. He glanced around us before turning back to me as though seeking the answer in our surroundings. "No, I can't say that I've heard that story before. Are you sure?"

"Just a rumor that my staff told me," I informed him. "But I'm being a terrible host. Come to the library and tell me what I can do for you. Or is this simply a social visit?"

As I gestured for him to follow me, I saw him splutter. Strange. What was it about what I'd said that caught him so off guard? "I hope you don't mind the disarray," I said over my shoulder. "It has only been a month, and I'm afraid it will take quite a bit longer for Pearsend to be brought up to snuff."

"Longer?" Mr. Jennings repeated. "How much longer?"

steward has warned me not to get my hopes up. For Pearsend to have no problems? My best guess is that it will take years. The previous owners caused a great deal of damage with their neglect."

A quick second look revealed the vicar's expression of puzzlement. "That does sound as though it would be a serious project," he said slowly.

"It's definitely not a task for the faint-hearted," I agreed. I led him into the library. "Please, take a seat and make yourself comfortable, Mr. Jennings. Though do be careful. Some of this furniture is in questionable condition."

The vicar lowered himself cautiously onto the edge of the chair, the same one Talbot had occupied earlier. Thankfully, there was no creak beneath his weight, but Mr. Jennings did not relax. "You have not bought your own furniture?" he asked.

"I am a bachelor, sir!" I responded with a laugh. "This is my first property. I wouldn't know the first thing about purchasing furniture. But the items that were left behind have served me very well."

Why did my words make the vicar even more uneasy? "I see," he said slowly. "Do you plan to remain for the rest of the year?"

Surprised, I took a seat across from him and pondered the question. Honestly, I hadn't given much thought to anything beyond completing the necessary repairs. The thought of being on the property for months on end made my skin crawl. I wasn't ready to completely settle down.

"I couldn't say for sure," I told him. "Perhaps. Although, I have been considering taking a trip to London. I have not been there since I left for my Grand Tour."

Mr. Jenning's expression brightened. "You went on a Grand Tour? How marvelous."

"As soon as I received my inheritance, I insisted on it," I said as Molly brought in a tea tray. "My family was against the idea, but I liked the idea of travel and exploring. Seeing something more of the world. I returned just a month before I became the owner of Pearsend."

Since my return to my home country, everything seemed to be in a constant state of chaos. From my mother being injured from her fall to going to Bath and winning a decrepit estate in a card game, it felt as though there had been non-stop activity. With so much happening, I couldn't even imagine trying to make plans for the future.

I certainly didn't have the energy for any planning!

"My brother once went on a Grand Tour," Mr. Jennings remarked. "He brought back many treasures for our family. Art and the like. You must have done the same."

"There was a great deal of art to be admired," I agreed. "My father was not much of a collector. He always viewed himself as more of a caretaker for what his forefathers had collected. I returned from my travels with nothing but myself and, I hope, some wisdom from the experience."

Once again, a cloud of disappointment crossed Mr. Jenning's face. Why? A niggling suspicion took shape in my mind. Had he thought I was a wealthy man because I was restoring Pearsend? Was he here to see if he could benefit from my money?

"And I hope you won't listen to what my sister has to say," I told him, pouring tea. "She has condemned Pearsend as a ruin."

Mr. Jennings blinked rapidly. "Your sister? You have a sister with you?"

"She's just here for a brief visit." Maybe I shouldn't have mentioned her. After all, I hoped that she wouldn't be here for very long. "She is my youngest sister."

"I see." Though from his tone, I guessed that he was more confused than ever. "Well, she is just as welcome here as you are. We've all thought that Pearsend was neglected for far too long and we're grateful someone is finally taking charge."

I handed him a cup of tea, which he took without any added sugar or cream. "I'm sure there are many who have labeled me a fool for doing so," I said, resisting the urge to question who he meant when he said 'we'. Did he think he represented everyone in the neighborhood? "My friend, Mr. John Ward, urged me to give it up when we came to inspect the place."

"You know Mr. Ward?"

"Indeed," I said, nodding vigorously. "In fact, I would call him a close friend. That he would be a neighbor was certainly a pleasant bonus, as it were, to keeping the place."

The vicar shifted in his seat. "He does not spend much time here," he cautioned. "There have been rumors-"

"I'm aware of how people talk," I interrupted. I had a feeling he was going to repeat some bit of gossip about my friend that I didn't want to hear. "He and I just spent a month in Bath together, and I know he is currently visiting friends in Brighton."

The room fell silent, and the vicar shifted uncomfortably in his seat. I broke the silence with a cough. "Well. What brings you to my doorstep on this fine day?" I asked, forcing a cheerful tone. "I've had plans to attend Sunday services, but there's always been some urgent matter that required my immediate attention."

It was a poor excuse. If I'd really wanted, I could have found a way to attend. If my mother ever found out how many Sundays I'd missed, she would take me to task!

"Of course, of course," the man said swiftly. "Completely understandable. I didn't come here to lecture you on your Christian duties. But I did want to introduce myself and discover if you intended to remain in the neighborhood for long."

"For the time being," I answered with a smile. "There are simply some decisions that must be made immediately. To wait for a report and then send a response would cause too much delay. After all, I don't have the luxury of hiring a private messenger!"

"Indeed, indeed," Mr. Jennings said, nodding. The movement did not hide the color rising in his face. "I think there are few people who can afford such a luxury."

The library door swung open and Philippa rushed in. "I'm so happy you—" Her effusive sentence broke off as her gaze landed on the vicar. "Oh. Excuse me. I had no idea..."

Mr. Jennings jumped to his feet before I could rise. "Philippa, this is the local vicar, Mr. Jennings," I introduced, gesturing to my guest. "Mr. Jennings, my sister, Miss Philippa Bywood."

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Mr. Jennings greeted, bowing low.

With a confused look on her face, Philippa gave a small curtsy. "Good afternoon, Mr. Jennings," she said. "I did not mean to interrupt your conversation with my brother."

"Not at all, Miss Bywood," the vicar informed her. "We were just becoming better acquainted."

Philippa's smile was polite. "I'm glad," she said, glancing over at me. "I was beginning to think that my brother was going to become a recluse since he left home."

Oh, she did, did she? Quite a bold statement to make in front of someone she had just been introduced to!

"I have a wonderful idea," I said, snapping my fingers. "Why don't you join us for a meal this evening? We will be dining with a friend of ours who is currently staying at Mr. Ward's home. It will be a small affair, but you are welcome to join us."

"Oh, no," Philippa objected as Mr. Jennings said, "Why, I'd be happy to accept."

As the vicar turned his gaze to her, my sister was forced to say, "My brother is right. We are happy to have you join us, but I'm afraid our dinner will be quite plain and uneventful."

"I'm sure there's something in the Bible about the benefits of simplicity," I said. "Mr. Talbot will surely be pleased to make your acquaintance as well, Mr. Jennings."

"And I am always pleased to meet new people," Mr. Jennings said, his voice holding more enthusiasm than he'd had previously. "I will take my leave so that I may dress appropriately. What time should I return?"

"Six o'clock," I said, escorting him past Philippa to the door. "My steward, Mr. Walton, will be joining us as well. Have you had a chance to meet him? He has been a miracle worker with everything he has done around the estate."

"Oh, yes. Yes. I believe I met him a few weeks ago," Mr. Jennings responded, his tone a bit bemused as we walked to the front door. "He's a fine young man."

"Well, we look forward to seeing you at six," I said, getting him to the door.

As soon as he left and the door closed behind him, I turned my attention back to the library. I saw my sister on her way up the stairs and stopped her. "Who were you expecting to find?" I asked before she could hurry out of sight.

"What are you talking about?" she asked, her cheeks flushing red.

"When you came in, you were saying 'I'm so happy you'," I reminded her. "Since I have done nothing to make you happy since you arrived, I doubt those words were intended for me."

"You're being ridiculous," she said, shaking her head. "Who would I have been looking for but you?"

"I don't know. That's why I am asking for you to tell me."

My sister huffed in annoyance and turned away. "Excuse me. I must prepare for dinner, since it appears we are to have guests."

Pursing my lips, I let her go on her way. Her behavior made no sense. I was beginning to think I had no hope of understanding her.