“Thank you ma’am. I appreciate your confidence in me and I shall endeavor to live up to such expectations.” That was the right thing to say wasn’t it. Mrs. Skeeter caught him off guard with her comment and for a moment he was left wondering just what she really thought of this endeavor, especially with her son going off into the thick of it. He allowed himself a half smile though, “I think it may take more than treasures for Mr. Podmore to leave us.” But that left the lingering and unsaid hanging over them. Now Percy felt awkward again.

“I am sure you are very busy and need to get back to work. Thank you again Mrs. Skeeter.” He bowed and excused himself, moving stiffly with his cane. He was sure she wouldn’t think him terribly rude excusing himself, but she was right, he’d need some luck to catch Podmore before he left on this venture.