In the Barrister's Chambers by Tina Gabrielle

the most damning facts and had successfully hedged the truth without lying.
    What an incredibly talented lawyer you are, Jack Harding, she mused.
    â€œTruth be told,” Lyndale said, “I am relieved you are on Randolph’s side. Case law is full of tragedies in which men have been sentenced to death for lesser offenses, many of whom were probably innocent but without the means to pay for legal representation. I myself vividly recall a client who paid with his life. As a longtime criminal barrister yourself, I am sure you have experienced such injustices firsthand.”
    Jack’s eyes darkened to a deep jade, and Evelyn knew he was recalling a memory. “I’m only too aware. Successful in the courtroom as I have been, I have lost trials and have been present at the execution of more than one client. Not all have been guilty of the alleged crime.”
    A tangible tremor passed across the table between Jack and Lyndale. Evelyn sensed their angst and shared bond of having witnessed the death of an innocent man, unable to prevent the deed.
    A renewed urgency rushed through her veins, making her light-headed. Randolph, too, could be an innocent man sent to prison—or worse—to the gallows.
    Images flashed through her mind. Randolph with his fair hair and kind blue eyes as he listened to her theories on William Blackstone’s works. All she ever wanted was a man who would look past her appearance and seriously consider her intelligence. And Randolph seemed to be perfect. He never minded her opinions, and he had even sought her help with research for his papers. That he never named her on his work or gave her credit for her research she knew was not his fault, but that of the male-dominated university.
    And now, after years of searching for an intellectually suitable partner, there was a risk that Randolph could pay with his life for a crime he did not commit.
    â€œPlease keep me informed of your progress, Jack,” Lyndale said.
    â€œI have hired an investigator to assist with the investigation,” Jack said.
    Evelyn started, and her gaze snapped to Jack. He had wasted no time in seeking out professional assistance.
    â€œVery well,” Lyndale said, rising from his chair. “Before I forget, Evelyn and I host a monthly dinner with Lordships Bathwell and Barnes, and I will be extending an invitation for you to join us.”
    Jack stood and nodded. “I’d like that very much.”
    Lyndale glanced from Evelyn to Jack, and a keen look came into his eyes. “I’ll leave you two to discuss the case.” Then he turned and left the room, leaving them alone.
    Jack sat and returned his napkin to his lap.
    â€œYou hired an investigator that swiftly?” she asked.
    â€œMy colleague, Anthony Stevens, works with a talented investigator with the instincts of a bloodhound; he arranged the matter. If Bess Whitfield was attempting to hide something, this fellow will learn the truth.”
    Jack rested his elbow on the table and leaned forward. “There’s another reason I came here today, Evie. An opportunity has arisen.”
    â€œWhat opportunity?”
    â€œIt’s Saturday.”
    â€œI don’t follow, Jack.”
    â€œTonight is Saturday evening, Evie. The busiest night of the week for the theaters.”
    â€œThe theaters?”
    â€œI thought we could start by questioning Bess Whitfield’s personal dresser.”
    â€œIs the dresser on the list of suspects Simon gave us?”
    â€œNo. But I’ve learned that servants and the hired help should never be overlooked. Oftentimes they are the most knowledgeable.”
    â€œAre you suggesting I accompany you unchaperoned to the theater tonight?”
    â€œBring your maid if you must, but you may want to leave her in the carriage. We’ll be going in the back door uninvited.”

Chapter 13
    On a busy Saturday evening, the Drury Lane Theatre could hold a little over three thousand