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Amazed at how well chapter 1 was received Thank you all for taking the time to review.

Chapter 2: Silence is Golden?

It was still dark when Carson opened his eyes. He had barely slept but knew Mrs Hughes had been right. There was no way he could risk his position at Downton. That would only lead to Anna feeling guilty over something that was not her fault. He swung his legs out of bed before quickly dressing and going in search of Thomas. While he disliked the young man at times he knew that now O'Brien had left he needed to integrate more with the rest of the staff. He also knew the Under Butler would be enjoying a smoke where there was very little chance of being found.

"Thomas."

"Mr Carson." Thomas was clearly surprised by the older man's sudden arrival. "I didn't know you were a smoker."

"I'm not." Carson wrinkled his nose. "I want to ask you something. Feel free to say no if you so wish."

"I will." Thomas smirked.

"His Lordship has guests due to attend this afternoon. I need you to cover for me. I should only be away an hour or maybe two. I want you to take my place and should anyone ask where I am I want you to tell them I am attending to some family business."

"And what's in it for me?"

"I keep your secret smoking place just that. Wouldn't want to be bombarded by scullery maids and the like while you are trying to have a break." Thomas sighed, knowing when he was beaten.

"Family business?"

"Yes." Carson answered. "That is what I said. Now do I have your word?"

"You do."Thomas smiled slightly. "You do."

"Oh and I heard what you did for Miss Sybil and Master George. I am sure both Lady Mary and Lady Sybil. God rest her would be grateful."

"That nanny was evil. Anyone who knew what she was up to would have done the same."

"Yes, well. You did the right thing. Now I must." Carson paused before heading back into the house. Thomas shook his head before stubbing out his cigarette. He had no idea what Carson was talking about but he knew he had to help.

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Anna smoothed her dress down as she stood in the doorway of the kitchen. The rest of the staff were already there, laughing and joking as they started the day. Daisy seemed to be absorbed in the new gadget they had been given. Something that would take time for Mrs Patmore to get used to, no doubt. She shook her head as she watched Mrs Hughes issue the jobs for the day.

"Anna?"

"Morning." She smiled as she walked into the kitchen. "Can't stop, I'll be late for Lady Mary." She hurried past Daisy as Ivy frowned.

"What happened to her face?" Ivy asked. "Did you see the bruises?"

"Never you mind about that." Mrs Hughes stated calmly, despite the fact her stomach was turning knots.

"You don't think her and Mr Bates?" Ivy continued. "I did hear he killed his first wife."

"Now you listen to me." Mrs Hughes stated, aware that John was already dealing with his Lordship. "That woman killed herself. It was proven. Now if you are suggesting the marks on Anna's face are anything to do with him I suggest you keep it to yourself. I've known those two for many years and I assure you it is nothing of the kind."

"What is it then?"

"None of your business. That's what it is." Mrs Patmore snapped. "Now are you cutting that bread or not?" Ivy huffed as the older women corrected her but she was determined to think the worst.

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"Good morning Anna." Mary sighed as the curtains were pulled back.

"Morning Milady." Anna answered quietly.

"Anna? Are you alright?"

"Yes." Anna nodded as Mary sat at her dressing table. "Yes I am fine. Thank you for asking."

"The bruises on your face look painful." Mary observed.

"They were. Not so bad now though." Anna smiled slightly. "They aren't as bad as they look."

"How did you get them?"

"I." Anna paused. "I was unwell the night of the concert so I went down to the kitchen."

"Anna?" She turned to see Anna biting her bottom lip. "Anna, what is it?"

"I was unwell so I went to get some water. I must have fainted. I assume I hit my head on the stove." Anna hated the face she was lying, but there was no way she would admit the truth. Mary frowned slightly but dropped the subject, knowing that her instincts were rarely wrong. Anna was lying and she knew pushing her wouldn't help.

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The rain subsided as Carson stepped out of the pub on the other side of Yorkshire. He knew Green often frequented the public houses of the area and he intended to talk to those that knew him, to build up a pattern of behaviour. The valet was a drunkard at the best of times but Carson knew he had to have a sense of the man if he was to get justice for Anna.

"You looking for Mr Green?" A young boy no older than 12 asked as he approached the next building.

"Why do you ask that?"

"Because I heard you talking in the pub. My dad was in there."

"Was he? What is your name?"

"Stanley. Stanley Raymond Taylor."

"So, Mr Taylor." Carson smiled. "Do you know where I may find Mr Green at this time of day?"

"The Parson's Terrier is probably the best bet. It's his half day today so he'll be in there. Lots of pretty girls in there too. My Mum says I'm to stay away from there. That the ladies aren't proper ladies."

"Oh you'd do well to heed your mother." Carson smiled at the boy. "How old are you?"

"Eleven."

"You'd do well to stay away from public houses for a few more years yet." Carson watched as the young boy frowned.

"What are you looking for him for?" Stanley fell into step beside him.

"He hurt my daughter. I want to know why." Mr Carson lied "I want to talk to him, that's all."

"What should I say if I see him?"

"Tell him." Mr Carson sighed. "Tell him Charlie is looking for him." He walked away knowing that he had to find the younger man before anyone else got hurt.

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A/N More soon.