Copper Script

by K.J. Charles

“What can I do for you Mr. Wildsmith?” “It’s what you may be doing to me,” Joel said. “I had a visit from a Sergeant Hollis today. He let me know that Paul Napier-Fox is liable to sue me for slander. I wondered what you knew about that.” Fowler took that in for a few unblinking seconds. Then he said, “Sit down.” Joel took the sofa, since there was only one armchair, which looked to be the room’s most-used seat. Fowler hesitated, then said, compelled, “Tea?” “Had too much today, thanks.” “Whisky, then?” That was slightly unexpected. “Are you allowed to drink on duty?” “I’m not on duty. And our conversations have never been official.” Fair enough. “Thanks.” Fowler poured two whiskies—generous amount, good heavy glasses, splash of water—and passed one to Joel, then took his own seat. “Explain. This business with Paul first.” “Well, I don’t know for a fact it’s him,” Joel temporised. “Sergeant Hollis informed me that the Met have received a complaint about me causing a lady to break her engagement to a gentleman with a specific allegation of immoral conduct. He said there’s a claim for slander and material damages that the gentleman will be pressing.” “Have you provoked any other ladies to break their engagements recently?” “One,” Joel admitted. “But only your cousin’s affair matches the circumstances Hollis described, so I’m assuming it’s him.” Fowler frowned. “He can hardly claim slander, given he did exactly what you said he did.” “Well, that’s my problem,” Joel said. “Ther...