“And sadly they’ll continue to believe. Even if we expose Madame Ophelia as a fake, they’ll probably just find another medium.”

“But surely not all mediums are cheating their clients out of such large sums of money,” Mother Bates said.

“We can hope not, and we can take comfort in knowing we have put one of the worst ones out of business. But only if we succeed.”

“I understand, my dear,” Mother Bates said. “And you’d rather not have to worry about me while you go about it.”

Elizabeth sighed. “I really would worry about you, you know.”

“Then I’ll try to comfort myself with that fact and take solace from hearing all about it later.”

“I’ll make sure Jake entertains you with stories about his romance with Persephone, too.”

“What a rogue he is. I assume that is progressing well.”

“She seems to be returning his interest, but she may also just be keeping an eye on him while they use him to get to his wealthy clients.”

“Does Jake have wealthy clients?” Mother Bates asked in surprise.

“He’s pretending to be a stockbroker.”

“Oh, of course. I should have known it would be something like that. Perhaps she just thinks he’s a good catch.”

“Jake?”

“He’s a handsome boy, and if he had a respectable job, he would be.”

“I suppose you’re right. I guess I just know him too well.”

“Familiarity breeds contempt, as they say.”

“Especially where brothers are concerned,” Elizabeth said with a wry grin.

“Is this the night Jake will do whatever it is he’s going to do?” Mother Bates asked.

“Oh dear, yes, it is. I need to telephone him right away.”

—

The cab dropped Gideon and Elizabeth off in front of Madame Ophelia’s shop, and Elizabeth was already breathing rapidly.

“What is it, darling?” Gideon asked, anxious even though he knew it was all an act. She really did look distressed.

“I don’t know. I just got this horrible feeling as we drove down this street.”

“Let’s get inside so you can sit down.” He slipped an arm around her waist as her step faltered so she wouldn’t fall.

He managed to get the door open to find the other participants already waiting. Their eager smiles of greeting quickly evaporated when they saw the state Elizabeth was in.

“Mrs. Bates, are you all right?” Cybil asked, hurrying to assist Gideon. Together they led her to the nearest chair and lowered her into it. “What’s wrong?” she asked Gideon as the others rushed over to see for themselves.

“I don’t know. She started to feel unwell just as we arrived.”

“Would you like a glass of water?” Tilly asked. “Persephone, can you get Mrs. Bates some water?”

“What is it?” Tilly’s mother asked. “Would you like some smelling salts?”