The Deeds of the Disturber - Elizabeth Peters [101]
8. (I had just thought of this, so it was not in proper chronological order.) ‘Were there any circumstances surrounding the acquisition of the mummy that might account for what was happening?’ Unlikely as it seemed, the question ought to be explored, in my opinion, and the obvious source was Lord Liverpool. He had invited me to visit him; why not take advantage of the invitation? And have a look, while I was there, for an empty case that might have contained ushebtis.
9. His lordship was a user of opium. ‘What opium den did he frequent? Were he and his friends the unbelievers mentioned by the man in the paddy wagon?’
With a firm hand I inscribed, under WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT, ‘Question Ayesha.’
X
POETS are always running on about the benefits of sleep, which is reputed to be ‘a gentle thing, beloved from pole to pole,’ and which ‘knits up the ravelled sleeve of care,’ et cetera, ad infinitum. I myself have always regarded it as a frightful waste of time. There are so many other interesting things to do, it seems a pity to waste one third of the day in a state of unconsciousness. However, I woke the following morning refreshed and in a slightly more cheerful state of mind. Making out a neat list had cleared my head and suggested several useful lines of inquiry. I was mulling them over and trying to determine which to pursue first when Emerson rolled over and flung his arm around me.
He was still asleep. The movement had been instinctive, habitual, unconscious. Was that what our marriage had become? Nothing more to him than dull habit? A groan escaped my lips. Without daring to look at him, I slipped out of bed.
It was not until I had studied my list that I remembered I could do nothing that day. I had promised to take the children out in honour of Percy’s birthday. I was not about to go back on my promise, for I pride myself on keeping my word, even to children, but it was a bitter blow. Dare I confess what thought lessened the pain? I am ashamed to do so, but I suppose I may as well. It was the knowledge that Emerson would hate it even more than I would.
However, I let him eat his breakfast first, for I am not a vicious person, even when provoked. He retreated immediately behind his newspaper and did not speak until Percy asked, ‘Uncle Radcliffe, sir – when should we be ready to leave?’
‘Where are you going?’ Emerson asked, peering over the paper.
I explained. ‘It is Percy’s birthday, Emerson. I promised we would take the children on a little excursion, to celebrate.’
Emerson’s face fell. ‘You promised? But, Peabody –’
‘They have seen none of the sights of London, Emerson. Even if this were not a special occasion, we ought to acquaint them with the historic and artistic monuments of the capital of their nation. Their education has been badly neglected this past week –’
‘Hire a tutor,’ Emerson grunted.
‘That is a subject I mean to raise with you, and one that requires much more consideration than a single careless suggestion. Your presence, Emerson, would make the adventure much easier, and more pleasurable, for all of us.’
‘Oh,’ said Emerson. ‘Well, in that case, Peabody . . . Where do they want to go?’
‘To the British Museum,’ said Ramses promptly.
Watching Percy’s expressive face, I said, ‘That might amuse you, Ramses, and I am sure it would please your papa, but Percy must choose, since it is his birthday. What have