Mrs. Jeffries in the Nick of Time by Emily Brightwell Read Free Book Online Page B

Mayfair, Inspector Nigel Nivens made his way through the crowded room to say good night to his host, Lord Reese, who was also his godfather.
    “I say, Uncle Nigel, can I have a word?” a voice said from behind him.
    Nivens frowned irritably and turned around, plastering a smile on his face just as he made eye contact with his nephew, Lionel Gates. “Of course, Lionel. But do be quick about it. I’m on duty early tomorrow and it’s already very late.”
    “I was wondering if you could do me a favor, Uncle.” Lionel smiled broadly.
    Nivens stared at him. Lionel had a round face with a red hue to his complexion, brown hair worn short and a sharp nose. He was the only son of Nivens’ sister and like his uncle, he’d joined the police force upon leaving school. He was a constable at Potter’s Bar in Y Division. At just five foot eight inches tall, he was lucky he’d joined the force when he did because now he wouldn’t be allowed in under the new height requirements. For that matter, Nivens wouldn’t be in, either. “What kind of favor?”
    “There’s been a murder at Acton and the victim is a very prominent person, if you get my meaning.” Lionel’s smile faded and he contrived to look serious. “My sources tell me that three of the detectives in that division are out with flu and they are badly in need of help.”
    “Have good sources, do you?” Nivens regarded his nephew thoughtfully. The young man reminded him of himself at that age. He didn’t like him very much.
    “Of course.” Lionel smiled proudly. “Every officer on the force ought to have sources. That was the first thing you told me when I joined.”
    “Then yours must not be too good,” Nivens said. “Otherwise you’d know the problem of staffing has already been addressed. The chief inspector sent Inspector Witherspoon and Constable Barnes over to handle the Humphreys case.”
    “That’s why I’ve come to you,” Lionel exclaimed brightly. “You and Inspector Witherspoon are close colleagues and acquaintances. I was hoping you’d use your influence to let me go along and assist him.”
    Nivens couldn’t believe it! He knew that Lionel was an aggressive little sod, but he didn’t think the pup would have the gall to suggest something like this. Nivens was no admirer of Witherspoon and was the only one on the force who felt the fellow’s reputation was decidedly exaggerated. But there wasn’t a constable worth his salt that wouldn’t give up a fortnight’s holiday to work with the famous Witherspoon. “I’m afraid you give me too much credit. The inspector and I are acquaintances, nothing more. I’ve no influence on the man. Furthermore, he works exclusively with Constable Barnes.”
    “But if the inspector went to the chief and asked for me specifically,” Lionel spoke slowly, as though he were speaking to a half wit. “I’m sure the chief wouldn’t refuse his request.”
    “You impudent young pup, you’ve been on the force for over three years now and you’ve done nothing to distinguish yourself,” Nivens snapped. “Even if Witherspoon and I were the best of friends, he’d hardly be likely to ask for your help.”
    “That’s not quite true, Uncle,” Lionel said reasonably. “I am the only one in my division that knows how to use the typewriting machine.” He wasn’t offended. He’d learned early in life that persistence was more important than brains, talent, or courage. “And you’re much more than just a casual acquaintance to Inspector Witherspoon, you helped him solve his last case.” Lionel broke off and waved to an old man across the room. “I know you don’t like to brag, but I overheard you telling Mama you’d given the inspector the vital clue that led him to solve that murder of the fellow they pulled out of the Thames.”
    Nivens silently cursed. That murder should have been his case, not Witherspoon’s. But he’d made one foolish mistake, and instead of having a solved homicide to his