As she settled inside the cab, arranging her skirts, she said to Daniel, “Mr. Cadogan might be the only carriage for hire in all of London, as often as I seem to encounter him.”

“He haunts Bow Street and Drury Lane, so he’s frequently to hand when a detective needs a conveyance. I think he enjoys being on the periphery of law enforcement.”

Juliette leaned back as the carriage jerked into motion. “So many different people in London, and each with their own story, their own hopes, dreams, struggles. Does he secretly wish he was a detective, or does he just like knowing what’s going on so he can gossip with his fellow drivers?”

Daniel shrugged. “Could be either or both. Cab drivers are easy to discount, almost as if they’re not real people, just around for the convenience of those who can afford to hire a carriage. Lots of occupations are like that.”

The way he spoke, as if from experience, sharpened Juliette’s attention. “Surely you don’t find people overlook you, a Bow Street detective?”

“No, but I haven’t always been a detective, have I?” He turned to look out the window, and Juliette, though curious, knew she would be prying if she asked him to explain further.

Daniel’s long legs took up much of the room, and Juliette slid her heels back to create space. Her maid sat quietly in the corner, smoothing the lace trim on her cap. Another occupation that was easy to overlook.

Time to change the subject. “Will you have many questions for Agatha? I cannot imagine she will know anything of import. Her father treated her as a pet more than a person. Showing her off and certainly proud of her, but not including her in any serious discussions of his business or his personal matters.”

“A few questions about his routine and relationships, but I am hoping to draw out more, something that will point me in a clear direction. Often people don’t realize the significance of a bit of information until someone else points it out.”

“How does one go about apprehending a murderer? Mr. Montgomery was murdered, was he not? You are certain?” Poor Agatha. Death was difficult enough, but to have someone you love killed on purpose?

“We are certain. The coroner found evidence that the wound was not self-inflicted. No, someone shot him. As to finding that someone, every case is different, but there are some commonalities. Who had a reason to wish Montgomery dead? Who also had both the ability and the chance to carry out the deed? If you have not those three things in one suspect, you do not have your killer. Motive, means, and opportunity.” His eyes were bright and his face lively, as if he truly enjoyed the art of detection.