No answer came. James closed the book.
"Until I have completed my examination of the records and spoken with the men, you are relieved of responsibility for Storm. You are not to approach his stall or equipment."
Vale bowed stiffly and departed.
By afternoon, the trainer had found a different way to defend himself. Emma was leaving the stable with her observation book when she heard voices gathering beside the training yard. Several gentlemen who had arrived to discuss the approaching demonstration stood with Vale near the fence; James was still occupied with his estate agent inside the house.
"An unfortunate situation," Vale was saying. "His Grace has allowed a young woman with no professional training to influence the management of his finest horse."
Emma stopped. Vale noticed her and raised his voice:
"Miss Carter, perhaps you would explain to these gentlemen why Storm is no longer fit to appear."
She held the book against her waist. "Mr. Bell has advised against riding him while his back remains tender."
"And who first persuaded His Grace that the animal was injured?"
"I observed a reaction and requested an examination."
One gentleman studied her work-stained cuffs. "You're the blacksmith's daughter?"
"Yes, sir."
"And now you advise the Duke on his horses?"
Emma felt the familiar heat rise beneath her collar. "I record Storm's progress under Mr. Bell's instructions. Mr. Reed remains responsible for his daily care."
Vale smiled thinly. "A remarkably modest description of your influence."
"It is an accurate one."
"Yet the demonstration may be ruined because His Grace listened to you."
Emma looked toward the stable. Through its open doorway, she could see Thomas carrying fresh bedding toward Storm's stall.
"If a horse cannot be ridden without pain, sir, postponing a demonstration is hardly ruined."