Agatha looked to the viscount, then said, “Thank you for your offer, but I have all the aid I need at the moment.”

A tiny arrow formed between the widow’s brows, and she leaned over and patted Agatha’s hand. Agatha flinched. “I feel I would be remiss if I failed to warn you that some will approach you only out of a desire to get their hands on your money. You’re very wealthy now, and some of a predatory nature will try to take advantage of you. Perhaps you would allow me to, ah, scrutinize those who would seek to advise you?”

“Mrs. Fairchild.” The viscount removed the widow’s hand, taking possession of Agatha’s himself. “While we appreciate your interest, Miss Montgomery is well looked after.” He lifted their clasped fingers. “I am an experienced man of business, and she has several capable managers, solicitors, and accountants who will help her. For the time being, she should be allowed to focus on her grieving.”

Juliette had never admired the viscount more.

Agatha’s lips trembled, and her eyes grew bright with unshed tears. “Thank you, Alonzo.”

The widow, as if taking the measure of things, sat upright and gave a tremulous smile. “Of course. I did not mean to intrude, only to help. It is in my nature to want to help. Garfield often said it was one of my many lovely traits.”

Though Juliette had not known Garfield Montgomery well, she couldn’t imagine him saying such a thing. The thought of him, all bluster and bravado, tenderly wooing a lady sent a giggle through Juliette. She tried to cover it with a cough, but her eyes met Daniel’s, and she knew she had failed to fool him, at least. His lips twitched, and he looked away. Was he imagining the same thing?

“I’m so sorry.” She sipped her tea. “A tickle in my throat.”

More guests arrived, and Agatha was able to escape the direct attentions of Mrs. Fairchild. Voices were low, faces somber, as condolences were expressed. Agatha, with Alonzo for support, greeted people by the drawing room door. The servants brought fresh pots of tea and coffee and saw to the refreshment table.

“Mingle and listen, if you will.” Daniel’s whisper brushed the tendrils of hair over her ear, sending a shiver down her spine. “I shall do the same. Don’t let on that I’m from Bow Street. It isn’t common knowledge that Montgomery was murdered, though I suspect news will leak soon.”

She nodded and moved away.

One man entered with a bandaged head and bruised cheek. “Miss Montgomery, my name is Hubert Earnshaw, and I was your father’s accountant. I am so sorry for your loss. Garfield Montgomery was a great man, and he was my friend.”

“Thank you. I’ve seen you with my father. Were you at the mill when it …”