Chapter Fifteen
Charlie’s clues dissected – whiskers – back on the boards? – exit in pursuit of an urchin
“I’m just his friend,” Gladys said to the coachman. “All right? Yes, I’m on the stage, and he’s a toff. That don’t mean any funny business.”
The Decharles’s coachman seemed genuinely surprised. “Of course not, miss. Master Charlie is a proper gentleman.”
Annoyed at the implication, Gladys glared at him. The coachman jumped in his seat. “And of course, I’m sure your reputation ain’t nothing what—”
“Spare me,” Gladys said and hopped into the carriage. Was that what the inside of a coach looked like? It was plush, but surprisingly cramped. Charlie sat in one corner, keen and eager in a grey morning suit and trying not to take up too much space.
“I spoke to Mrs O’Higgins,” he said. “
