Sir David had visibly relaxed. He must have still wondered about the validity of their identities despite Agatha producing both papers and key, but now that they had been recognized by a peer, his doubts were quieted. “I did not realize you were acquainted with His Grace?”

“The duke’s mother has been our chaperone to many events this Season. And the duke and duchess have been kind enough to extend to me the friendship they have with my parents.” Juliette hid a smile. Marcus Haverly was more than just a family friend. He was her supervisor in the secret agency for which she now worked.

“What brings you to these hallowed halls?” the duke asked.

Agatha sighed. “Tidying up some business of my father’s.”

He frowned. “You have solicitors for that, surely.”

“Yes, but this is a task I wanted to complete myself. I’m checking the contents of his security vault. There may be personal effects.”

“I see. Well, I will not keep you. I expressed my condolences and my wife’s earlier, but know that you have them once again. If there is anything you need, anything I or my duchess can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.” He nodded to each of them and continued on his way.

Juliette followed him with her eyes for a moment, feeling again that sense of security whenever the duke was nearby. He was so confident and capable, with perfect manners and an assured quality about him that transferred to those he was with. He wore power easily.

Knowing that he was one of the best spies in the kingdom didn’t hurt either.

She hurried to catch up to Sir David and Agatha. The banker escorted them to a wide staircase leading to a lower level and then down another long corridor. The air was cold here, and periodically along the way, iron bars sectioned the corridor. Armed attendants, also in pink coats and red waistcoats, had to unlock the doors to allow them through.

What would they say if they knew Juliette was also armed, with a knife in her half boot and a pistol in a cunning pocket inside her muff?

Sir David stopped before a thick metal door, and at his instruction, the attendant unlocked and opened the heavy barrier, which made no sound as it moved.

Inside, Sir David lit several lamps, and the shadows pushed back to reveal walls full of metal doors, each with a brass keyhole.