I clasped Mr. Fielding’s hand, and he shook mine firmly. He withdrew immediately, not holding on any longer than was appropriate.

I turned to Daniel. “And you thought to consult me on a rainy night in the back of a chapel?”

“My fault,” Mr. Fielding said quickly. “I thought you’d be more comfortable meeting two fellows in a church instead of a tavern.”

The snug in a tavern would have been more amenable to me, though I admit having to make my way to one alone in the dark and rain might have deterred me. Daniel was acquainted with the vicar of Grosvenor Chapel, who’d given him a place to sleep on more than one occasion, though I saw no evidence of that vicar here tonight.

Daniel let Mr. Fielding apologize without offering explanation or change of expression. This puzzled me, as Daniel usually had a glib word to soften any occasion. The tension with which he regarded his brother told me clearly that Daniel did not like him, or at least did not trust him.

“Perhaps you would prefer to sit, Mrs. Holloway.” Mr. Fielding dragged a chair from the corner, a carved wooden one with upholstery on its seat and back. This was the vicar’s seat, hardly appropriate for a cook.

“Thank you, but no need. Please, tell me the problem, and perhaps we can solve it and all take some rest this night.”

Mr. Fielding gave me a look of surprised respect, and his manner softened. “I apologize for troubling you at all. I came to Daniel with this matter, because he is far and away the most capable man I know. He wished to ask you about it, and thought it would be easier if I explained it myself.”

So far, there had been much apologizing and little explaining, but I did not admonish him. I opened my hands and waited for him to begin.