The Ancestral Brooch

The Ancestral Brooch

(Historical Romance Mystery)

by

Sherry Boardman

Copyright 2011 by Sherry Boardman

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Edition License Notes

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From the Author

This is a work of fiction. Names and characters and locales, other than those specifically researched and listed in the source reference section, either are the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Other works by this author may be found on the last page of this publication.

Cover Photo - Marie Galterio, http://www.letsgetvintage.com

Cover Design - Sherry Boardman

Dedication

To my son who was the inspiration for this work.

My wish is he will always sail even further

than beyond the beautiful sunsets

to discover life's unknown treasures.

Chapter One

Eastern coast Isle of Wight

1755

Michael steered the longboat closer to the shore of the isle. He had been making this three-hour trip for several weeks from England's mainland to deliver supplies after a storm had flooded homes and businesses in Brading and other settlements. His shipping company was receiving more than enough orders to keep three of his boats on the water at all times.

However, today he was ahead of schedule and wanted to get a closer glimpse of the one he had often seen situated near the shoreline, her head down while laboring on the weave of a new basket. The small hut above the rocky beach appeared to be her dwelling. It was simply built, but looked durable enough to withstand most of the coastal winds. He could see the town beyond the grassy rise and shallow inlet for passage and wondered why she might live such a distance from the others. Usually, she lifted her head to glance his way when the boat sailed by, her long dark hair flowing in the breeze. But she never waved or acknowledged his passing. It only made him more curious about her always being alone with only the sounds of the foaming waves rushing through the weathered boulders as her companion.

Disappointment crossed his features as he steered closer to shore. She was nowhere to be seen. Only a few baskets indicated she had been there earlier. He had missed her this day. As his return trip was by another route, it would be a week before an additional shipment would bring him this way.

Shrugging, he maneuvered his vessel back into deeper waters and continued on schedule. But his mind drifted back to the one whose usual appearance on the beach made his mundane trips more interesting.

Leah watched the boat regain its course on the glistening water and allowed the square of material to drop over the semblance of a window. Her hand shoved back the wisps of damp curls from her face. When she saw the sails of the longboat round the bay's promontory and steer closer than normal to shore, she quickly weighted down the newly woven baskets and ran into the hut. Now, she paced the worn rug covering the dirt floor. Visitors weren't welcome. If anyone saw a boat nearing her appointed spot on this earth, it would create even more suspicion. As it was, she was fortunate to still be free and not locked up in some dark, dank cell. Although she had not been found guilty of the crime she supposedly committed, she had not been absolved. For the time being, her sentence was to dwell alone with no contact with any other than those who brought her the meager supplies she was allotted weekly. It was difficult not to notice the boat as it passed nearby by a few times a week. She fought the urge to wave to the one at the helm. But, she was ever cautious that someone was watching her every move. A thrill ran its course when she noticed he was becoming a bit bolder to sail closer, but it was impossible to make any new acquaintances. Her lonely days were confined to basket weaving and walking along the rocky beach with the sand squishing between her toes accompanied with constant thoughts that her dreams of being a proper lady in high society had been washed out to the depths of the uncaring sea.

Chapter Two

Michael supervised the unloading of supplies and told his shipmates to enjoy some of the local scenery. He had several new contacts on his list to visit for future orders and collect for the delivered ones. A glance around the township indicated the reconstruction was going well. Piles of lumber had been hauled away and burned. Roof tiles and other debris were quickly disappearing. Fallen stones were being restacked to restore damaged homes. Soon, the town would be as thriving as it once was.

The bell above the door tinkled to signal an arrival when he walked into the first business on his list. The smell of fresh paint filled his nostrils. Looking around, the attorney had exceeded others' plans of remodeling. The storm had served as a good excuse to enlarge the office and purchase more furniture.

The middle aged lawyer appeared from a conference room off the hallway. Smiling, he held out his hand. Michael Lewis, how nice it is to see you again.

Michael shook his hand. Same here, James. He looked around the reception office. It appears that the Edwards law firm has survived nature's recent wrath.

James nodded. All is well, he said. He motioned Michael down the hall to his office. Your draft is on my desk.

It had been a pleasure working with James. There was never a need to ask for payment.

James opened the desk drawer, retrieved the envelope, and handed it over. I really appreciate your service, Mr. Lewis, he said with a grin.

And I enjoyed providing it, Mr. Edwards, Michael said with a slight bow.

Take a seat and bring me up to date on happenings in Portsmouth. James went to the beverage cart and poured two classes of port and sat down in the chair adjacent to Michael.

Nothing has changed, Michael said, reaching for the drink. Business is quite brisk at the moment because of the storm. He looked down at the wine he was swirling in the crystal glass. It's difficult to overly celebrate because of the many who were affected. Looking back up at his friend, he shook his head. We were very fortunate on the mainland, you know.

Just the luck of the draw when you live in coastal areas, James said.

Michael leaned forward. So, how has it been for your business with all of this interruption?

Very quiet for a while until I recently became attached to a rather strange case.

Oh?

Yes, James said. An affluent family up the coast in St. Helens retained me to handle a suit against their son's future wife.

Sounds interesting, Michael said.

Quite. But several questions have come to the front of my mind about it all. It's become a quandary.

How is that? Michael asked, suddenly interested.

The girl is accused of stealing a diamond and ruby ancestral brooch that has been in the family over two hundred years.

You don't say. Quite a case for this island.

Yes. The gossip flows freely around here.

Michael swallowed the last of his drink and set the glass on the desk. And you have questions about her guilt?

James nodded. The court too quickly made a judgment, I believe, and has banished her from the town until a formal trial is held.

Banished?

Yes. She was provided with primitive housing and supplies, but is allowed no connection with anyone across the stream.

Michael's brain immediately visualized the dark haired beauty beside the seashore bending over her baskets. If she was the same as presently being discussed, the mystery of her always being alone was just solved. Without hesitation, he asked, Does she weave baskets?

James was surprised at the question. Yes, I believe she does. Have you heard of the event?

No, he said simply. But, I believe I have seen her several times as I've neared the port.

Ah, James said, nodding. I've heard she is a lovely girl.

Most assuredly, Michael thought while admiring the newly imported carpet. He cleared his throat. Seems quite harsh if she isn't guilty.

Money persuades, Michael. And the family has a great deal of it.

Studying a scuff on one of his new leather boots, Michael nodded in agreement.

The girl isn't from a well-to-do environment, James continued, and my first impression is the family decided to concoct a way to rid themselves of one lower than their station in a way she would cause no problems.

Michael looked up. And with these suppositions, you will continue to work with them?

James left his chair and returned to the liquor cart to pour one last sip of the port. He turned back to Michael. In my years of practice, I have more than once served the wrong side while, at the same time, helped those who couldn't help themselves.

Have you talked to the girl? His curiosity was now highly piqued.

James shook his head. That would not be too professional on my part. Besides, he said, she is watched constantly. The family is determined no one is to speak on her behalf.

Thoughts raced through Michael's mind. She had become more of an obsession in the last few weeks than he wanted to confess. He wanted to hear the whole story but knew James had possibly already said more than he should have. I don't suppose there is anything I can do.

The attorney glanced out his window and then back to Michael. Clues, he said. If she is being put on the block because of some trumped-up charges, I need clues. He wasn't asking for Michael's help, but the idea had been planted.

I'm not well-known outside of this immediate area, Michael said. What if I could find a way to become a branch of the higher society on that section of the island?

James sat back down and studied the young man sitting across from him. Why would you want to become a part of this? he asked.

A frown disturbed Michael's features. Everyone deserves to be heard, he said. No one warrants to be treated like an animal because of supposition.

It could be dangerous, friend. These people do not appreciate others dallying in their business.

Would you allow me to try my hand at it? Michael asked.

James gave it some thought and then stood and walked around behind his desk. He opened the top drawer and took out a piece of paper and handed it to Michael with an inked quill. I would not want anything in my handwriting to be seen by others, so jot down the information I have come across.

When Michael walked out of the office, he was studying his notes. Someone bumped into him, and he realized there were now crowds on the streets. The paper was folded and shoved into his coat pocket. He needed time to think this out and started walking with no destination in mind. A spur of the moment decision was not his normal style. Perhaps because he sensed some connection with the lonely one on the beach, he felt compelled to help her. But, first, he had to come up with a plan. The only ones he really trusted were the four men who worked on his boat. With the bank draft he just received, they could afford some extra time on the island before returning to Portsmouth. Word could be sent with a returning vessel they had been delayed for a few days.

He shook his head at the thought of the accusation. A two hundred year old diamond and ruby brooch. How could anyone entertain the idea such an item could be sold on the island or even the mainland without raising eyebrows, if that was even her intention? The first thing he had to do was find some way to talk to the girl without frightening her and without anyone noticing his trying to make contact. That meant he couldn't just walk through the town and straight to the hut. The only other way was to use the cover of darkness and avoid the town altogether. And, he thought with a smile, he had the perfect means to accomplish that goal. A boat.

Chapter Three

And that's what I have in mind, he told the four men huddled around the table in the local pub. For the next two days, simply mingle in groups here and there and casually ask about the goings on in the area. Perhaps you might appear as if you are considering relocating to the island.

All four nodded. One of them leaned back and asked when they would be leaving for St. Helens.

In a few hours, Michael answered. I inquired about separate accommodations and was assured we would have no problem. I'll anchor within walking distance because I will want to check on the boat. He didn't go into details that he would be doing his own investigating from the water's edge and staying in his quarters aboard the vessel. We will decide on the times to meet to pass on anything of interest. He looked around the table. Any questions?

Kind of an interesting assignment, one of them said, smiling. Better than unloading building supplies.

Michael laughed. Consider it a get-away, he said. I've sent word we would be here a few days, so your families won't be concerned.

Another chuckled. Mine will welcome the absence.

Michael stood and took out his pocket watch. All right then, he said looking at the time. Let's depart two hours hence. That will give you time to purchase whatever extras are needed, have a meal, and freshen up before getting underway.

The men tucked away the envelopes with bonus cash for personal needs. The one named