Chapter 12

It was Jax (my uncle's secret man), who opened the door and gasped in surprise. I had somehow managed to stumble when the car came to a stop, cling to the knocker, and give him such trembling blows—I had earlier spattered my cab driver's fare on the ground to get money into his hand.

I stumbled into the hallway and mumbled, "I'm extremely sick, Jax. "I'm feeling awful about that awful illness once more."

Jakes responded while sporting what appeared to be a smile "Sure, sir. It depends on the time of year, sir. It would have been better if you had slept, sir."

Now that the house was fully lit for the party celebrating my birthday, I was itching to see my beloved even though I wasn't feeling well. I knew Tilly and everyone else standing were upstairs with Uncle and his allies and were waiting for me to arrive before lighting the pot.

I said:

"No, Jax, I'll try to put up with it. You should bring some very hot water and a little cognac into the dining room