“Sadly, that appears to be the truth of it. Do you know who is behind that?”
“I think we both know, Reverend. I’ve some lads watchin’ ’im, an’ I think we know who t’ thief was.”
“I trust you will not take matters into your own hands, Mister Howell. It is a matter for the law to deal with.”
Mick smiled. “Never fear, Reverend.” He hesitated a moment to gauge the vicar’s response. “’Sides, I’ve plenty o’ other matters ter deal with.” He laughed. “Honest ones, not like t’ Beadle.” He became serious again. “I’d take it kindly if you’d give my brother a post. ’E’s good wi’ ’orses, an’ a wonder in t’ garden—though where ’e learned that trade, I’ve no knowing.”
Stephen hesitated. “Your brother? Jeremiah, or Jonathon? I understood the latter was returned to his employment in India.”
“Jeremiah,
