Chapter 6
P hilip Palliser strode through into the back room, calling for his nephew, the boy who sat in the outer office.
‘THEO! THEO, WHERE ARE YOU?’
Theo, having just washed up the teacups and wondering, not for the first time, if this really was the best use of his degree, jumped to attention. His uncle’s sudden mood changes could be unnerving.
He emerged to see Philip holding out a piece of paper, which he took.
‘Mirren Sutherland?’ he said. ‘What is this for?’
‘I need you to find out about her,’ said Philip. ‘That’s what you young people use the internet for? Stalking each other and whatnot?’
Theo shrugged.
‘Not really ... What’s this about?’
‘There is a book ... a rumoured book ... that combines two great artists of the nineteenth century in one. But it has only been spoken about, never seen. Never discussed, except in secret circles. As a holy grail. Until a scruffy young woman walks in here, bold as you please, and announces she’s looking for it.’
‘Okay,’ said Theo. ‘Uh, cool?’
‘No!’ said Philip. ‘She has no idea what it means. Did you see her shoes?’
Theo shook his head.
‘She’s going to be looking for it.’
‘Can’t you ask your network?’
‘What, and let them know I want it? Not likely,’ sniffed Philip. ‘No. You have to follow her around. Subtly. Quietly. She’ll probably talk to more family members who’ll know something. Figure out where she’s going to go. Follow her there.’
‘As a spy?’ said Theo.
‘Well, you’re not much use around here,’ said Philip brusquely.
‘How would you even know it was in the country?’ said Theo.
‘Beardsley was big on the continent when Stevenson wasn’t,’ shrugged Philip. ‘They were never in demand at the same time. Plus, I would know. European dealers are completely useless at keeping their mouths shut. Worse than the wine chaps. Spend too much time with the wine chaps, that’s half the problem.’
Theo frowned.
‘But I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable ... stalking a girl,’ he mumbled.
Philip looked exasperated. ‘I give you bed, board and a bloody job, and I bloody well help your father out enough – I don’t think asking you to do one thing is too much, do you?’
The threat in his voice was absolutely clear. And Theo’s existence – and his father’s, the younger brother in the family – was very dependent on Philip’s goodwill.
‘I’ll start checking,’ he muttered.
Philip nodded shortly. ‘Good.’