Chase was not thinking about the duke’s death now, but about his life. “He walked at night here. Did you know that? Just as he walked along that parapet at Melton Park. His valet made a comment about it, and he had mentioned those walks to me himself.”

“I can see him haunting the shadows.”

“At night, if lamps are lit inside houses, you can see inside when you pass. Even those with drapes drawn, often you can see. One wonders what he saw, or if he even noticed.”

Nicholas raked his hair. “Listen, I said nothing last night because it was not the time, but since you are waxing nostalgic about Uncle now—I am concerned about Kevin.”

“As am I. It might be best if he left England for a few months. A man has a better chance at justice here than anywhere else, but this is a duke’s death and if it is called other than an accident, there will be those looking for a resolution.” It soured his mood to think about that development, and how if it occurred it would be on his conscience that it had. He wrestled every hour with the weight of duty versus family. Versus love.

“If it becomes necessary, he can hop a packet.”

Nicholas crossed his arms. “Do you think there is any chance that he—I refuse to believe that.”

“Someday I will tell you about the dangers of refusing to believe that which the facts support. You asked if I think there is any chance. I do. However, I don’t believe there is any chance. Kevin will be at the mercy of what others believe and think, however.”

“This is a damnable business. I hope that you don’t hold it against me that I dragged you into it.”

“You did not drag me in. I was already there.”

Nicholas walked away, as if from the topic itself. “Miss Hepplewhite looked quite lovely last night. Very spirited.”

“I believe she had an enjoyable time.”

“Lord Jennings commented on her healthy appetite.”

“She paid dearly for the self-indulgence. It would embarrass her to learn others noticed.”

“Jennings was impressed, not critical. As for me, it was a compliment to the new chef. He just started a few days ago. Mrs. Fowler said all her old friends were gone, and she didn’t want to continue because it was not the same.” He wandered aimlessly around the sitting room before landing in an armchair. “Kevin asked about Miss Hepplewhite. Twice. I could not put him off the second time. I think he sees her as an eligible inappropriate woman.”

“What did you tell him?”

“You had warned me off when she was called Mrs. Rupert, but I did not know if you still guarded her. I would say protected, but I don’t want to imply anything.”