I am watching you
Sidney M was seated at the head table and surveyed all people in attendance. It was a mixture of family, friends and alliances. He watched his parents happily speaking with each other a number of tables away. Sidney M holding Joy's hand and was thankful he would have her by his side for the rest of his life. It had been Joy's suggestion for the wedding, and it pleased him to see his mother beaming with happiness.
He had been fielding questions about the connection Sir Parker had with his mother. There were some in the clan who were not happy with his mother marrying an Englishman. The majority of concerns had been forgotten once they discovered Sir Parker had saved his life.
"I would not be here tonight if was not for Sir Parker… he is my stepfather and therefore must be honoured" Sidney M always speaking with a silent warning.
The dinner kept the problem of Steward Montrose in the front of Sidney M's mind. Steward had not gotten on a ship but remained in England. They suspected he had been taken in by one of his supporters and was hiding in Southern England. Flora and Claire had seen him the day after the failed attack.
It was when they had been added to the auction list.
"I no longer have any need for you as your father has failed. You have cost me money and I am going to recoup my investment by selling you" He had grabbed their jaws and inspected them like cattle.
"Yes, your mother's Russian features will attract more money as they like the northern look" wickedly smiled Steward. It didn't matter to him that they were related but they had been a means to an end. He needed more money, and it would keep him in hiding while he planned his next attack. The girls couldn't remember the name of the area as they had been pushed into the room with the other girls.
'Where are you hiding Uncle?' thought Sidney
Steward Montrose was personally watching the happenings at the Worcester estate. He no longer trusted others to do his bidding and will now only do it himself. It was a vast estate and he had been successful in sneaking onto it without being noticed. When he had been questioned, he was able to pass as a servant. He had a clear view from a window to watch the wedding of Charlotte and her Englishman. He observed Sidney M with his future English wife and felt the Montrose house was being polluted.
He caught sight of the Montrose twins and fisted his hands. The raid had disrupted his money-making operations and the girls were witnesses to his involvement. Steward deciding the girls needed to be removed. He would have to wait for an opportune time but not tonight.
Steward spent time observing the various relationships and the people he could use as leverage against his nephew. He watched 'Sir Sidney Parker' deciding he needed to find out more about this man and his connection with Sidney M.
Steward had always been suspicious about Hector and Charlotte marriage. They had married quickly and produced a child in record time. He often wondered about the boy's legitimacy. It was interesting his nephew shared the same name as the man Charlotte had just married. He would have to investigate this place call 'Sanditon' and he might discover the truth. Steward knew he needed to go but he had to do something first before leaving the property.
Once the main course had been served Sidney M stood up to begin the proceedings. Sidney M's heart was heavy as he stood to pay tribute to Clyde. Clyde had taught him how to hunt and survive in the wilderness. Sidney M also spoke about the man's loyalty and love for the family. He asked for everyone to stand they drank in his honour. Everyone was given an opportunity to speak, and the process was repeated. Charlotte explaining it was common for Scottish funerals.
Once the meal had finished, they moved towards the large reception rooms. The piper started playing again which signalled the beginning of the wake until the funeral the following evening. Over the course of 24 hours individual families would go together to say their final farewells to Clyde.
"We go first" Charlotte speaking quietly to Sidney. He extended his arm, and they followed their son out of the room towards the chapel. They walked together towards the coffin and every person was given the opportunity to say their final goodbye. Charlotte comforting Anne who had never experienced an open coffin or kiss a dead person. Angus who had been waiting outside walked in and took care of Anne.
"Anne… this is an important time for the family. It allows us to properly grieve and say our final words. We don't cover up death but accept it as part of life. We can sit over here and watch" Angus spoke softly and held her hand as she was shaking.
"I am sorry, this is a new experience for me… I don't mean to be disrespectful" she breathed out to calm her nerves. Angus nodding towards Sidney M and he patiently sat with Anne allowing the others to continue with their grief.
"Thank you for all of your lesson. I will miss you and thank you for your love. God Bless" Sidney spoke to his mentor and friend.
Everyone stood around Clyde and sang the song he always sang when they were in the wilderness. Finally saying goodbye before moving out of the chapel to allow the next family to grieve.
Sidney was the last and when he stood up, he noticed something strange. There was a piece of paper poking from the coat pocket. Often there would be money but not a note. He took it out and his blood turned cold when he read the message
'I am watching you, Sidney!... Uncle Steward' Sidney M looking up and motioned for Angus. They quickly moved outside and with their men searched the surrounding area. They found three men who had been lying unconscious with notes stuffed in their pockets 'You are following the wrong man'.
Sidney M had walked back the chapel and arranged for everyone to be escorted safely back to the house. The injured men were taken for medical assistance and more guards were posted to protect people who wished to attend the wake.
They needed to capture Steward Montrose! Sidney M calling a meeting with clan leaders to determine their next course of action.