“Holden was here.” The innkeeper looked at the mess within the Royal Arms. He spread his arms in dismay. “He and his boys wrecked my tavern and threatened my staff.”
“So I see,” Smith said. “Was anybody hurt?”
“Only me,” the tavern keeper indicated his swollen eye. “But they scared my barmaid. They told her that unless I changed my supplier, they’d ruin her life and her reputation.”
“I’ll pay for the damage.” Smith handed over five guineas. “If the account exceeds that, let me know. Tell your girl to remain at home for the next fortnight.”
The tavern keeper frowned. “She needs to earn to eat.”
“I’ll pay her wages,” Smith said, “and I’ll send you a replacement.”
“Holden will return and give her the same treatment.”
“No doubt,” Smith agreed. “Did Holden say when he would return?”
“Ne
