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Chapter 21a ~ continued

“Her family is just recovering and they have little to keep themselves fed before the harvest, but she would have willingly given it to me should I have accepted her hospitality.”

“You allowed her to keep both her pride and her meager supplies.” Sir Winthrop nodded.

“I feel if a master treats his tenants well, they will do likewise to others.” Richard merely nodded back.

No wonder he and Darcy are friends. They share the same philosophy.

Upon returning from what seemed to be a long ride for Sir Winthrop, he informed Richard that he required rest, and left him in the parlor to the care of Miss Winthrop who had already ordered tea and cakes for their return. She did not appear surprised when her grandfather retired to his rooms for a few hours respite without much preamble.

“Colonel, would you care for tea?”

Richard hesitated but a second before replying to her civil, almost friendly tone, as though after a few days reprieve from much of his company she had chosen to forgive him his slight of her grandfather, perhaps thinking it had been without malice but mere ignorance. He decided to follow suit.

“Yes, thank you, Miss Winthrop.”

He accepted the offered cup and both sat down in chairs beside a window filling the room with sunshine.

“Does your grandfather often nap during this time of day?”

“When he rides long distances, his age seems to catch up with him. As you see, he is set in his ways to do as he pleases. There is never anything so pressing to keep him from his needed nap. Rest, assured, Colonel, he will be about again before the dinner hour.”

There was a pause in the conversation before Richard said, “I have taken to reading of some of your uncle’s exploits during the night.”

She raised her eyebrows in surprise. “And?”

“I must say, it makes for interesting reading, especially the journal by Leslie Leigh Winthrop. That journal was certainly filled with more skirmishes than one could fathom.”

Lily’s eyes lit up at recalling her reading of that particular journal herself with all the battles it related. “Which of my uncles did you find the most courageous?”

A pensive expression edged Richard’s face at her query and replied, “I would have to say thus far that of Lieutenant Leslie Leigh.”

She began to laugh softly as she sipped her tea. “Of course, I beg your pardon.”

Richard watched without understanding as she tried with difficulty to stem the tide of her amusement obviously at his expense, but she made no further attempt to explain herself. Richard was left to continue the conversation with, “I have also had the opportunity to peruse Sir Winthrop’s vast library, and will admit he and Darcy have a common habit in the purchasing of books. I hope you find reading an enjoyable diversion?”

“Oh yes,” she said warmly, offering him a cake from a tray. “Ever since I was a little girl, I have had the great pleasure of reading about far away places and times gone by through books, from Blake to Shakespeare and Burns, Donne and Cowper. My grandfather hired a tutor that I may learn French and Latin and I struggled with Greek, while grandfather taught me mathematics and some of the sciences. Little did either know that I sometimes used what I had learned to read in French some Arabian folktales or to decipher Homer and Ovid which I also found amongst his books.*”

She smiled and confessed, “There were days when I found nothing so enjoyable as sitting in the window seat of my grandfather’s library experiences adventures, intrigues from the Iliad, and the wonders of God’s creation, or going back in time to read of King Arthur and his knights from the Le Morte d’Arthur, or being in the hot desert sand with Ali Baba and his forty thieves, or-”

Impressed, Richard held up his hand and smiled. “Then shall we simply say you have seen the world through your grandfather’s tomes, Miss Winthrop?”

Lily smiled and dropped her eyes and shook her head knowing that she had overwhelmed him with her enthusiasm. “Yes, Colonel, that would be a more concise statement than all my rambling.”

“You had no one else with whom you shared your life then, except Sir Winthrop?”

“There never seemed to be the need for more, sir. Of course, we had neighbors to whom we were friendly, but not so many children with whom I played. My grandfather and I became close after my father…after he passed away.” She sighed.

“I see the mention of him has upset you, Miss Winthrop.”

Lily shook her head and smiled. “Do not make yourself uneasy, Colonel. I have long reconciled myself to his loss.”

She again sipped her tea and they remained in pleasant conversation about some of the members of his family before parting company that she be about her obligations before the dinner hour.

*Although “1001 Arabian Nights” was not translated into English until 1850 by Sir Richard Burton(!), these tales had been translated into French between 1704-1717 by Antonine Galland called Les Mille et une nuits, contes arabes traduits en francais, and were probably from an earlier compilation written in Arabic. Sir Thomas Malory’s “Le Morte d’Arthur” was published in 1485 by William Claxton, so conceivably Lily could have read that too. I know it’s a bit of a stretch that she could wade through Homer while struggling with Greek, but I figure she’s one smart chick.

Richard had resided at Winthrop for nearly a fortnight when he finally took up the journal of the last remaining son, Donald Kenelm Winthrop, Lily’s father. This son had been the one whom Darcy had spoken of, and whom he and old Mr. Darcy had taken a particular interest in.

The journal began……I have been called to do God’s work, but not by taking orders as was expected. Unlike my brothers who have served as either soldiers or sailors in the king’s arm forces, some of whom have met their fate in battle, I feel my ambition pulling me in another direction entirely…

The pages revealed to Richard that the writer, having seen one or more of his brothers injured or maimed in war without the means of adequate care, Donald and others formed the Society for the Betterment of the Poor*, whereby food and meager supplies were to be distributed by means of an exporting business operating on the coast. These supplies were donated by well intended individuals and then ferried to the battle front where they were meted out by courageous persons after the skirmishes cleared. Under the flag of truce, aid went to both sides. This endeavor was condoned by the British military only because it ensured that their men would likewise get the attention they required.

Although humanitarian in nature, the Society which Donald Winthrop helped to develop came under constant scrutiny and suspicion by members of the crown and other politicians who felt this was tantamount to treason in that while it gave needed aid to the British fighting men, it also aided the enemy. Richard read further…

…Myself and my mates were ill-treated for our efforts as per usual, but today several of them sustained bodily injuries and also the threat of being killed outright should we continue with our endeavors. If this should be the fate that would befall me, then I will gladly follow my brothers beyond this life knowing that what I have done was righteous…

Donald wrote poignantly of his wife having been ostracized by her own family when it came to light what her husband was involved in, and how when she died in childbirth, they cut off all ties to him and their child, a girl whom they stated would be of no use to them. This left him to raise his daughter alone. Not wishing to be parted from the only possession left to him by his wife, Donald Winthrop took her to the only home he had ever known, and to the father who had supported all his sons in whatever they chose to do with their lives.

Richard blushed with embarrassment upon his reading so personal an account of such despondency and disappointment with so insensitive a family as hers, and was glad his own family was unlike this unfeeling one.

Even in those times when I disappointed my family, they would never turns their backs on me.

With his own mother having died several years earlier, Donald’s words flowed across the page in combination of high humor and near despair as both men stumbled at being the only caregivers to a young girl, managing somehow to keep her safe as she grew. They even enlisted the advice of their trustworthy housekeeper, Mrs. Johnson, with problems that they as men had no idea of how to handle. Donald wrote…My father cherishes having a granddaughter to care for after raising all sons, and asked to be allowed to teach her at home rather than sending her away to school. Lily is bright, so devoted to her grandfather that she learns her lessons well in his ample library. I worry of her somewhat isolated upbringing, but she seems enriched by all the places his books can take her. What better place to have her live than with one who would love her as much as I?

Donald Winthrop wrote of how he was called again to organize the Society once more when the Napoleon came to power in the 1790’s rendering all of Europe restless for war, and with fighting already breaking out between France and Austria, Britain’s ally. Richard wondered how long it would take.

How long could Britain remain at peace? The Royal Navy has already ably defended the country with several skirmishes between the British and the French fleet over the years.

Being the last Winthrop son at home now, Donald wrote of his reluctance to leave his young daughter and his father, now more elderly than most of his neighbors though still in good health, and so eventually decided he must go. Sir Winthrop got word of the fate of his other sons only after Donald had long departed on his own humanitarian mission. The other sons had been taken in different battles since the hostilities began. He was a midshipman in the fleet under Admiral Lord Howe, who died aboard a ship when it was fired upon by the French fleet around Cape Ushant in 1794. His son fought valiantly in a naval exchange which the British won. The other son, Donald’s young brother, Jonathan Frye Winthrop, died after the fierce battle of Cape St. Vincent in 1797. He was one of the guards attacked by several of the 3000 Spanish prisoners captured by the British.

It would be nearly a year before Sir Winthrop found out the fate of Donald. Finally a message came from one of Donald’s friends who had accompanied him in the distribution of aid who wrote…

A battle from cannon fire had decimated the valley below and the skirmish had been bloody and bitter and emotions were high on both sides when Donald and several others of our society began combing through the devastation under the flag of truce to administer what little aid we had available at the time. The story was that when Donald bent down to give one of the injured Austrian soldiers water from his canteen, a French infantryman took offense, ordering him away from the young boy in an enemy’s uniform. Either Donald did not hear the order, did not understand or merely ignored it. No one is certain, sir, but that the French soldier leveled his gun and fired upon Donald, severely wounding him. It was the last act that particular soldier managed before collapsing from the effort to die next to the boy…

Donald lingered for several months, resigning himself to the fact that like so many others, he too would expire and be buried on foreign soil rather than rest beside his mother in England. He did have time enough to write to his father, some of which Richard read from the journal. Richard sighed as he recalled the many he himself had personally penned for injured or dying soldiers…

…I am sorry to have to relate to you, dear father, the misery that has become my lot. My greatest regret is to not live to see my Lily grown into womanhood. There is so much of her dear mother in her, especially about the eyes. Often I find myself imagining those eyes, the same color as her mother’s smiling upon me. Now they will grieve with glistening tears at my sorry fate that now separates us. Take care of her, father. She is my only legacy that I now entrust to you. I know you will do right by her. I remain ever your loving son, Donald…

Only with a shaky but eminent peace did Sir Winthrop get word of Donald’s whereabouts and have the means to enable a father to bring home a son who by now was gravely weakened from complications due to his injury. The lead musket shot that had damaged his gut had made him prone to dysentery and lung infections, and after his return home Donald knew his time was short. He finally succumbed to consumptive congestion in the spring just prior to his daughter’s fifteenth birthday, and was buried in the family plot; a rite that had been denied his father for his other sons who were either remanded to the sea or buried on foreign soil in common grave yards in a hurried fashion.

The remainder of the journal was penned by one whose hands now shook with age, but Richard could still make out the scrawl…

…I allowed this still young girl to attend her father’s funeral, not a usual occurrence but as I, Sir Percy Winthrop now have no one else left, I permitted her stand beside me whilst the community buried the last of my heirs. From this day forward I vow that Lily will never go from my home unless it is her desire, and further, to honor my son by cherishing his daughter, educating her myself in the ways of land management, hoping she will take over when I join all my family on the other side of this life…

Richard exhaled as he closed the journal, thinking on the discussion he had partaken in with Sir Winthrop during one of their tours of the property on horse. Sir Winthrop had said that either his true inheritance had been his longevity or that the Almighty had other plans for him, he was not certain, but there must be a reason for him remaining spry and in good health even into his advanced years while those younger than he had grown frail and died.

“Yes, the years have been kind to me as though the heavenly Father was grateful for all that I have sacrificed, and allowed me in these passed ten years to keep to the management of my estate with Lily who is now more than grown.”

“Was there no one whom you could turn for aid?”

Sir Winthrop then spoke of how several neighbors who had kept close ties with them and then their offspring had made offers for her hand only to have her refuse them all when she realized it was expected that she would be removed from her home and her beloved grandfather.

“Her heart would not allow this separation from her old grandfather,” Sir Winthrop said with pride at knowing she desired his company over that of younger men.

When Richard remained silent, Sir Winthrop sensed what Richard was thinking and nodded his head. “Yes, I admit some remorse at standing in the way of her having a full life with the possibility of love and children of her own.” He paused before adding, “Then there is the fact that when I die, if she is not provided for, her fate and the fate of this estate will die with her since I no longer have sons to bequeath the lands.”

“Perhaps there is someone from her mother’s family who would aid her with the estate management?”

Sir Winthrop shook his head in dismay. “No, even that door which was closed to us so long ago has now been buried for good.”

He spoke of Lily’s maternal family who died off due to the influenza** epidemic that had touched so many in the city and had taken the last of them. “Due to their severing all association with Donald and me, their property was sold off to strangers, and the rest reverted back to the crown rather than have it go to their only heir.” Sir Winthrop too had no one left except his granddaughter and so was glad she was content to remain with him for the time being, but it was clear that though he taught her his ways of land management, he worried still about her future when he died.

Richard could not but be saddened that none of Donald’s or his wife’s family had survived to the present, and was suddenly grateful for all the Fitzwilliam family members he who remained in good health. The fact that he survived unlike so many he had witnessed die in battle caused a resurgence of his own remorse which he could not stem. Sir Winthrop placed a comforting hand on Richard’s shoulder, both now standing silent in the path.

Sir Winthrop had sensed the signs of battle weariness in this young man though Richard had tried his best to hide his affliction with charm and cunning. The elderly gentleman had been witness to the effects of war from his own sons who had come home from battle from time to time, and through the many letters he had received and treasured regaling him of their exploits as well as their impressions of the devastation.

Yes, I recognized the signs in you, young Colonel Fitzwilliam.

Sir Winthrop tried to do as had done with his own sons before; in truth he felt compelled to aid this young man weather the demons in his soul, to help him begin to heal amidst the peaceful setting of the estate. Their frequent sojourns to survey the lands brought about many discussions which both men enjoyed and were enlightened by. Sir Winthrop came to know how the orders given were transported to the front lines of a battle and how the men were well trained by those similar to this young colonel to carry out those orders with initiative and zeal.

Richard, over the course of these weeks with Sir Winthrop realized the anguish felt by all the families left behind when a soldier goes off to fight a war on foreign soil, never to know the hardships faced, leaving the family to wonder if their loved one had suffered a cruel death. Richard never before thought much on how his own parents must have worried for him each time he rode off. He recalled how his mother and sister wrote of their musings, of mundane normal aspects of daily living at home. Only now did he realize they did so to raise his spirits that he remain strong enough to accomplish his task of defending his country, his king, his…family.

With Sir Winthrop supporting Donald Winthrop’s endeavors of his humanitarianism, Richard also came to realize how God often calls certain persons to destinies not often popular or condoned during times of war, but how those destined to such a fate persevere to accomplish those actions to relieve pain and suffering in the aftermath of battle.

They are not unlike some of my own comrades who gave their lives in defense of their country.

During his stay, riding along side the spry gentleman, Richard found himself able to share without specifics some of his feelings of what he had beheld during this last mission. The elderly man understood those feelings, of the lunacy of some behavior during war, of loss and futility of going on with living when others more deserving had not survived. Richard found in Sir Winthrop someone he could truly commiserate with for though Sir Winthrop had never seen combat the man had been keenly affected by the war nonetheless. It seemed to ease both their minds to speak of it to someone else who understood such senselessness and tragedy.

Sometimes their walks took them down path leading to the Winthrop family plot where the old man personally tended the graves of his wife and the one son that he could bring home, Lily’s father. Sir Winthrop likened him to that of his other sons who served the crown, and now Richard was more apt to agree with him of Donald’s contribution when viewed through the eyes of a father who had lost all his sons in the cause of war.

*Please forgive any flagrant misuse of history. I tried to keep the battles as historically correct, but found few that would explain Donald Winthrop’s demise, so it is a fictitious one. The other battles were during the time of England’s war with America, through the French Revolution, and the rise of Napoleon. During this time England and France were at war and at peace with one another for forty years until England finally sent troops against the French defeating them in 1814. The Society which Donald Winthrop and others founded was akin to an early form of the Red Cross which does so much good around the world to alleviate pain and suffering regardless of the circumstance. I thought great ideas like great mind think alike, so why not have people try to form a society similar to the today’s Red Cross?

**Influenza was a prevalent disease throughout the world in years 1774-1776, and conceivably could have been in England to touch the lives of Lily’s maternal family.http://www.libby-genealogy.com/epidemics.htm

When the day came for Richard to depart, he found his heart lightened by the encounter of his spry gentleman with a kind heart and his witty granddaughter who had welcomed him into their home. Sir Winthrop accompanied him down the steps where the servant held the reins of his horse awaiting him. Richard wondered about the other resident’s absence, but then realized that Miss Winthrop must have many duties to perform as the mistress of her grandfather’s house and perhaps was merely unavailable to see him off. There was only a slight pang of disappointment as Sir Winthrop addressed him.

“I await your return that we might speak more of the negotiations that had originally brought you to Winthrop Estates, Colonel.”

Surprised by what was implied, Richard turned from his horse to face Sir Winthrop. “Sir? You have come to a decision then?”

“Of all those who have made an offer for my land, Colonel, you are the only one who showed any interest in keeping the land as I would.”

“I have much to learn about its management, Sir Winthrop, and hope you would honor me to serve as my mentor in that respect should we come to an agreement.”

The elder gentleman nodded and put forth his hand which Richard hastily accepted to seal the deal.

“Thank you, sir.”

“All right, be off with you. Safe journey, and give my regards to your cousin, young Mr. Darcy.”

“That I will do gladly,” Richard said gaining his mount and tipping his hat in farewell.

Sir Winthrop added, “And his lovely wife.”

Richard nodded but otherwise remained silent as he turned his horse toward the road that would take him back to Pemberley.

Chapter 21b

Posted on Friday, 22 July 2005

The ride at first did not seem as gloomy as the one that had taken Richard away from Pemberley only a fortnight ago. He had hoped to gain the respect of Sir Winthrop; something Darcy must have suspected would happen when he penned his letter; that Sir Winthrop would regard Richard as a man worthy of consideration, and be persuaded on the idea of Richard’s purchasing some of the Winthrop lands for his use.

Now that it had come to pass, Richard admitted, Darcy is truly the best of men.

Then recalling Sir Winthrop’s further request of regard to Darcy’s wife, Richard thought again of Elizabeth.

How could we have been so fooled by you?

Richard’s feeling of unease resumed upon his return to Pemberley late in the evening just in time for supper and was escorted into the parlor where the family had gathered. The warmth of Darcy’s greeting testified to the fact that indeed Elizabeth had kept her word to not relate any their conversation in the solarium to her husband. Here she sat on a couch next to her sister, apparently pretending nothing untoward had happened between them. Richard concluded that she had chosen to retreat behind the veil of civility however she now felt of him.

Georgiana, he noticed had also joined Elizabeth in acting less than cheerful at his return, avoiding his eyes with her greeting to him along with a most ladylike curtsey instead of rushing into his arms as before. Since she was fully aware of his eminent return, he surmised that perhaps she had not felt the need to show him as much affection as when he had first come to Pemberley after such a long absence. Still, with her demeanor as altered as the other two Darcys now, it left Richard to wonder what possibly could be behind it.

Ushered to his rooms after only a brief greeting, Richard barely had time enough to change from his dusty traveling clothes to dinner attire. As he adjusted his neck knot, he fumed, thinking Elizabeth was the reason for this dissembled atmosphere.

I should tell Darcy of her deceit, but I gave my word I would keep her confidence.

At the table Richard, seated next to Georgiana who remained silent throughout the meal and opposite a much subdued Elizabeth, talked instead of his dealings with Sir Winthrop, of how well they got on, and of Sir Winthrop relating a history of the estate with reference to Richard’s father whom Sir Winthrop had a passing acquaintance.

“Sir Winthrop was indeed ready to relinquish control of part of the estate lands, Darcy, and was merely waiting for the right offer to come along; his only stipulation being of his wish to supervise the spring plantings for the first year or two. You were correct in your assessment of the man’s mood, Darcy. I commend your astuteness.”

Darcy nodded, happy to hear Richard’s enthusiasm at joining the neighborhood, and was impressed with his cousin’s skills at negotiation, not knowing that Richard often negotiated in his line of work either with words or a pistol. “It will be good to have you in closer proximity than in London where you have been headquartered lately, will it not, Georgie?”

Georgianna nodded her approval of her cousin being closer to Pemberley than in town. Elizabeth, Richard noted, had remained quiet throughout dinner, at first surmising that her civility now required her to keep her speech to a minimum toward the man seated across the table from her.

Allowing his thoughts to wander during the lull of talking while they all partook in the sumptuous veal that has just been served, Richard further reasoned that however sincere she seemed, Elizabeth was merely playing the part of the dutiful wife, agreeing with her husband without adding her own opinions, and something before Richard thought her incapable from what he remembered of the pert young lady with opinions of her own residing at the Hunsford parsonage. He mused at her now obliging mien, seemingly so at odds with her own nature, wondering if such pretense was her way of trying to endear herself into her new family to ensure her child’s acceptance.

You have the entire household completely fooled by your portrayal of the proper Mistress of Pemberley, something you must have ambitiously planned all this time.

Richard’s gaze remained steady first on his duped cousin, then to his wife. Smiling inwardly then, he admitted a begrudging admiration of such clever subtlety, realizing one can admire an enemy’s finesse while still remaining at odds, deciding that had she been sincere, he would have praised her success in attracting the notice of his socially reluctant cousin.

How successful have you executed your scheme, my dear Mrs. Darcy.

With thoughts so intense, Richard could barely keep his contempt from showing as he sighed, knowing he must keep to his part of the charming colonel for Darcy’s sake and Georgiana’s peace of mind. He drained his entire glass of wine, and motioned for it to be refilled, vowing to conceal his own opinions to allow Elizabeth her charade for the time being.

After your child is delivered, however, I will tell Darcy what I know of your betrayal that he may quietly divorce you.

Even as his mind formed this thought Richard wavered at the wisdom of it, wondering if Darcy was strong enough to withstand such knowledge without again becoming unhinged, having never understood what had initiated Darcy’s mental break last year. Still Richard remained hopeful that his cousin had strengthened his resolve as he had eventually after one then the other of his parents had died, enabling him to run Pemberley as before. Then a secondary thought came to mind.

He should be able to know the truth, but with the trust between us eroded to such a low point, would Darcy even believe me?

Stewing in his own thoughts, Richard was taken by surprise when Darcy began a new topic by informing all, “I have had a most interesting letter from one of our solicitors this past week, that of Mr. Thaddeus Knox. It seems he is to venture north from London and through Derbyshire on his way to visit his relations once again.”

Darcy and then Richard observed Georgiana to see if she would become animated with the news of the young man’s planned visit. She merely smiled with a quiet reply. “That is wonderful news, Fitzwilliam. We shall all be happy to receive him.”

Elizabeth asked, “Charles and Jane thought well of Mr. Knox when he last came to call, but why would he venture north at this time of year?”

“It seems,” responded Darcy stifling a yawn, “excuse me, that Mr. Knox received a letter from his aunt to come.”

Elizabeth then said, “I too have received a missive from Lady Thompson.” She looked at Richard to confirm, “Lord Thompson is the great uncle of Mr. Knox?” Richard merely nodded as she continued. “I was much disturbed by Lady Thompson’s letter which stated that Sir Thompson’s health remains poorly after the long winter months, and he seems to grow steadily worse with a curious ailment for which none of the physicians can find a cause.”

Now even Richard came out of his own dismal thoughts with his curiosity piqued. “Indeed? What are the symptoms, if I may ask?”

Darcy said, “Sir Thompson had always been a gruff sort of man even when younger, and became increasingly so after each of his children were born. Surely you can recall a few of his outbursts as a child here, Richard when his family was also in residence?” Richard snorted.

“I seem to remember him flying in a rage with a face the color of ripe persimmons over some pittance of an argument between Hal and his elder son, Jerald involving his sister, Sarah.” Richard laughed adding, “having yet to become a soldier at the young age of nine, I felt it the greater part of valor to retreat in the face of such a rage.” Darcy nodded.

“Most times his anger could be managed by either his wife or my own parents, but Lady Thompson spoke to me at Christmas of his lately being more and more forgetful, and then becoming quarrelsome without provocation. Elizabeth, did you not say that Lady Thompson’s letter states he is now much worse?”

“Yes, and I begin to worry for her own safety with his more frequent bouts of irrational behavior that she implies are growing in violence.* She is barely Georgie’s height and weight and I fear she has become even more frail since last we saw her last.”

“It is good then that Mr. Knox has deigned to come to the aid of his uncle and aunt. We shall offer any assistance he may require on their behalf.” He gave a weary sigh.

“Yes, Fitzwilliam, I agree. We are of one mind on the matter.”

Richard watched Elizabeth smile at her husband, who was stifling another yawn, and also took note of the dark circles under Elizabeth’s normally bright eyes, rightly deducing that the pair of them had not been getting the proper amount of rest in his absence. Having already gone through one bout of illness with Darcy, Richard’s own feelings coincided with the rest of the staff in a growing concern for the health of the master and, yes, even the mistress, followed by pangs of remorse for his brutish thoughts of late. He tried to temper his worry for his cousin’s welfare lest it become too transparent while he could offer no solution. He opened with another topic.

“Where are the Bingleys tonight? I understood that they were to be an addition to your dinner party.”

“Charles sent word that Jane had exhausted herself with making their house ready for the impending visit of her family in June who wished to be of help when the child arrives later this year.”

Richard raised his eyebrows remembering a few of the more raucous members of the Bennet family during his short stay at Longbourn for Darcy’s wedding. He wondered how they could help with anything except causing more chaos than the couple required. “I am sure the Bingleys will require all the needed rest they can muster before such an invasion.” He drained his third glass of wine.

Darcy added, “Charles was assured that Jane would soon recover her strength with some rest, and they will be joining us on Monday for supper.”

“I look forward to it then, cousin.”

Richard noted that Georgiana, too, remained unusually quiet, a change so remarkable to him that he asked, “Georgie, is there something on your mind?”

Neither of the weary couple had spoken on this subject, but with Richard’s remark, her brother became aware of the difference and waited her reply.

“Georgie?”

Richard thought, Yes, my young cousin, tell us your thoughts.

“No, Fitzwilliam.” She took this time to drain her glass of water.

Elizabeth asked, “Are you well, dear Georgiana?”

“Yes, Elizabeth, I am quite well.” She almost laughed. “Should I not be asking you that question?”

Laughing, though all at table could tell how tired she seemed, Elizabeth replied, “Yes, I suppose so, and I am indeed well. I thank you. Fitzwilliam takes such prodigious care of us; I could not have found a better provider.”

“Of that I am certain,” replied Georgiana, avoiding anyone’s gaze by renewing her slicing a piece of venison.

Richard could not be sure but he got the distinct impression that Georgiana’s tone was almost sarcastic in nature, giving him leave to wonder about his young cousin’s own suspicions now.

*Alzheimer’s was not known of in Regency times, but I am sure it was not unheard of to exhibit some of the symptoms of such a disease. It might have been called dementia rather than dotage back then? http://www.edgarcayce.org/health/database/chdata/data/pralzh3a.html

The Bingleys did manage to attend the dinner party a few days later, and it was clear to Richard now to Charles and Jane’s observations that the master and mistress of Pemberley both were suffering from near exhaustion. Charles had been recently made aware of how exhaustion affects the normalcy of a confinement. With Jane who was already up at all hours during the night to relieve a straining bladder and painful spasms in her back from his child, he reasoned that Elizabeth, being so near her time, these events would be occurring with greater frequency at Pemberley. Coupled with the fact that after supper neither she nor Darcy, who can always be counted on for lively conversation, spoke barely a word tonight, was evidence of their apparent fatigue.

Jane had but to glance at her husband in silent communication of her concerns and to give him leave to take whatever measures he deemed necessary to ease the situation with Darcy while she would take her sister’s needs in hand. Bingley’s slight nod to Jane relayed his agreement of her opinion of the situation and that he would try to oblige her.

Unable to imagine a more intuitive woman than his Jane, Bingley smiled at how far he and she had come in the shortness of their marriage to enable such silent communication. It was as though they were of one mind, one heart. He felt it a wondrous thing to know one another so well that a mere look would suffice to allow understanding.

It is as though we have been married for decades instead of months.

Then thinking again of his friend and his wife, Bingley sighed. Motioning the Colonel aside after dinner he asked for a private moment in the library while Darcy led the party to the music room to hear the concerto Georgiana had recently learned. Once inside the closed door, Richard helped himself to a brandy and then offered one to Charles. Bingley accepted it willingly and then allowed Richard to sit in one of the leather chair by the fire to wonder why he had been sequestered with Darcy’s friend. Bingley paused to organize his thoughts.

Richard quipped, “I am sure, Bingley, you had a reason sufficient enough to keep us from my young cousin’s exquisite exhibition.”

“Indeed I have, Richard.” Here Bingley frowned, faltering at his brooking so personal a topic even to one related to him now.

“Out with it, man, or we shall be here all night.”

“Have you…had you noticed…of course you would have…can you not see how exhausted Darcy seemed at dinner?”

Richard snorted. “Yes, he could barely keep his eyes open to eat.”

“I have never seen him act so. Are you not concerned?”

Shrugging at the thought of having seen Darcy much worse by far, Richard did not at first wish to state his own growing concerns. “I assume it is due to his worry over Elizabeth’s confinement, but not something Darcy would wish us to be overly concerned of, Bingley. Darcy has weathered more difficult hardships in the past, and will likewise carry through with this one.”

“I fear I must disagree.” The hairs on Richard’s neck stood on end at Bingley’s avowal.

“What do you mean?”

Bingley sighed, not wishing to talk about Darcy’s ever requiring aid from any quarter. Darcy had always been the stronger one of the two of them, but Bingley now knew well the signs of fatigue and waning from his own wife’s condition. Putting his untouched glass on the mantle, he stared steadily at Richard. “I understand some of what he is going through, and think…that someone should step in and give him some relief.”

“Whatever are you talking about, Bingley?”

“This is a most important time of the year.”

“Yes, his wife is soon to give birth.”

“That is not to what I am referring.”

Now Richard was confused. “What then, man? Speak up.”

“This is the planting season for all the tenants in the area. If not supervised properly, the crops will not be the harvest that is hoped for, and Pemberley and its tenants will suffer the consequences.”

Richard rolled his eyes.

Is that all.

“Bingley, Darcy has an adequate steward in Mr. Withers who is, I am sure, able to provide any service required of him to ensure a fruitful harvest.”

“Be that as it may, but it is Darcy who has always taken the reins of the spring plantings with a sharp eye. Mr. Withers, though capable, would not wish that kind of responsibility thrust upon him and may flounder in the heavy burden of decision making that Darcy has always carried.”

“Are you telling that all these years Mr. Withers has never before solely supervised the spring planting?”

“No, not according to conversations I have had with Darcy. He has been in charge of every spring planting since before his father’s death. Old Mr. Darcy had given over their care to him soon after he returned from Cambridge when his father realized Darcy’s talent for it. He has for many years had that sole responsibility.”

This fact surprised Richard that his uncle Darcy had such faith in his son’s abilities from a time before coming of age. It also made clear the point to Richard why Darcy’s reasons for not accompanying him on many occasions had not merely been an excuse to shun society, but rather that he was in actuality busy with estate business. After witnessing his cousin’s poor behavior tonight, Richard was sure Darcy’s worries were almost insurmountable at present, and something did indeed need to be done.

“What are you suggesting, Bingley?”

“That we take on some of that responsibility for the time being to give Darcy relief he so desperately requires at this moment in time.”

“Take on his duties at Pemberley? Are you mad? First of all, Darcy would never allow it. Secondly, you are newly invested in your own property with all that entails, and lastly, Sir Winthrop, though quite forthcoming in my education of land management, has not instilled in me the confidence to yet handle the running of such an estate as large as Pemberley.”

“It will only be for a short duration, but it is at a crucial time. We must at the very least offer our assistance to Darcy. He cannot continue at this pace without growing ill from his lack of proper care. I only say this because he has always looked out for me even after I became of age until I could manage on my own. I am now in a position to come to his aid.”

Richard stared at this young man whom he had always deemed a slacker, one who he thought would never grow into a contributing adult, but who now stood before him quite the man, able to take on as much responsibility as any well seasoned soldier in his regiment.

He sighed. “I have my doubts that Darcy would ever agree to this, to have the management of his estate handed over to a pair of novices.”

“At the very least we can ask to be of assistance.” Awaiting Richard’s agreement, Bingley’s eyes stared back with not quite the innocence of youth that Richard had remembered in this young man. Richard sensed that with or without his consent Bingley would go forward to Darcy with his scheme. Finally nodding his head, Richard motioned for a refill of his brandy glass.

“All right then, but if I know Darcy I am sure he will be adamant in his refusal of any help from either of us, and me especially.” He downed his brandy in one swallow and then had to inhale to soothe his burning throat.

Bingley frowned at this odd admission from one of Darcy’s kinsmen, one whom old Mr. Darcy had entrusted the co-guardianship of Georgiana.

Surely, Darcy trusts his cousin and will agree to the wisdom of sharing the load during this remaining time left in Elizabeth’s confinement.

After rejoining the party in the music room to hear Georgiana entertain them with several sonatas by Haydn, Richard watched his cousin and wife nearly together nod off during the middle movement of the final piece, and agreed with Bingley that some assistance seemed necessary for them. Recalling Darcy’s illness that Richard felt so helpless in alleviating, he knew that regardless of his own feelings, he actually had no wish for anything to happen to either his cousin or his wife and her baby.

Rising after the final notes and praises from all quarters for his younger cousin, Richard spoke. “I say, Darcy, would you give me a moment before all disperse?”

Darcy frowned at the prospect of a discussion while he was so fatigued, but could not refuse his cousin should he wished to talk perhaps of his still off centered attitude of late. He nodded and turned to Elizabeth. “Shall I accompany you to your chambers before hand?”

“No, my dear, I wish to remain with Jane and Georgiana for a few moments longer.”

“I will attend you when I return then.” He kissed her hand and with the other two gentlemen, departed the room.

When they were all sequestered in Darcy’s study, Richard poured each a cognac and looked to Bingley to begin the conversation that Richard knew would bring forth a vitriolic reaction by Darcy at the very least.

“Ah…Darcy, there is something of import that we wish to discuss with you…” Here the man faltered, and Darcy exchanged a confused look from one man to the other, but remained quiet for Bingley to continue. “I know this is quite an unexpected request of you, Darcy…”

“Charles, what is it you are trying to say? Do you require my aid in some matter with your tenants? I was under the impression that all was going well with them and-”

“It is not my tenants that I need to discuss…no, Darcy, but it is rather that of your tenants that I wish to speak of…” Bingley swallowed a good portion of the liquor in his glass and then gasped at the heat of it searing his throat, and took to repeatedly coughing into his handkerchief.

Darcy remained silent, staring at his brother-in-law without understanding, awaiting a further explanation of his statement. Here Richard rolled his eyes at the lack of progress and stepped into the fray with the straight forwardness of a soldier dispensing orders to his troops.

“What Bingley here is so delicately trying to tell you, cousin, is that both of us see how exhausted you are of late, and wish to lend our assistance during this planting season.”

“What?”

“We wish to take over your duties to give you a respite for the time being.”

“What?”

Truly, Darcy’s weary mind could not fathom what nonsense they were spouting, and Richard became impatient with his cousin’s apparent denseness to their suggestion.

“Darcy, are you now completely without reason? I am saying we wish to take on part of your responsibilities for the growing season while you rest for a few days.”

“No,” began Darcy almost indignantly starting out of his chair that he tower over them both. “That is out of the question. It is totally without merit as I am perfectly capable of dealing with all that is required of me…I am…” Darcy paused and closed his eyes to concentrate on his words in defense of his abilities to weather this crisis himself to the two men before him. But having closed his eyes he nearly toppled over into sleep before he caught himself with his hand upon the arms of the mantle. “I merely require a few more hours of sleep and I shall be fine again. I…”

Bingley could no longer listen to his friend’s futile attempts to put words of sense together. “Darcy, you are not fine, and have not been fine for many weeks now. I can see how it is with both our wives in confinements. Though Jane has not had the same maladies as Elizabeth, she is not without symptoms of her own to keep her from restful sleep even at this earlier stage, and so I know some of what you are going through with Elizabeth, and likewise know you are not getting a sufficient amount of rest either, and have grown increasingly addled.”

Darcy bristled at such an accusation. “And you are telling me that you are still sufficiently within reason while I am not?”

“Yes, Darcy.” Bingley was at last standing up to his formidable friend. “I am saying that I am not under the same amount of stress that plagues you at present and can be of aid to you before you push yourself beyond your abilities to remain well. It pains me to see you heading down that road when Elizabeth will soon be in need your strength. If you do not alter your ways, you will not be of any use to her when her time comes.”

“Bingley, you overstep. I am perfectly able to carry on…”

“Yes, but for how much longer?

Supporting Bingley’s concerns, Richard continued, “Darcy, much as I am surprised at such sense coming from so unlikely a quarter, I must agree with Bingley’s words and hope you see the wisdom of his suggestion. You are practically dead on your feet, and it makes sense that you need to regain some of your strength lest we have you once more under a doctor’s care, something I assure you I do not wish to have repeated.” After several subsequent discussions with the earl about Darcy’s previous condition led Richard to make a vow.

I will never again allow you to become so ill, cousin.

Darcy stared sternly at his cousin’s threat, remembering the time he had wandered Pemberley’s halls so feverish and seemingly lost to himself that Richard had engaged several doctors into attending him. He knew this was not the same malady. Darcy thought it was merely exhaustion from the stress and lack of sleep plaguing both himself and Elizabeth. Still he nodded, agreeing with that he had no wish to return to a time when any physician had dominion over him. Richard and Bingley exchanged expressions that at least one obstacle had been overcome and the younger man ploughed on.

“I implore you then, Darcy. Allow me to aid you as you have me for so many times in the past. Let me help you now.”

Darcy sighed realizing that he was indeed too tired to further this argument with either of them, proof of their correct accretions of his diminished mental faculties as he listened to Bingley’s proposal.

“I will seek counsel from Mr. Withers, with your permission of course, and together he and Richard and I will continue with your plans for the spring plantings. Richard can oversee the tenants with frequent visits to the fields while Mr. Withers and I begin to implement the intricate design you have devised for this year’s crops.”

Darcy ran his hand through his hair still not wishing to relinquish any of his authority. “Bingley, I still do not see the need for…”

“Give us but a few days, Darcy. Rest while we go forward with your plan, after which we will apprise you as to our progress. You need to rest in the meanwhile.”

“I am still unsure if…” Now Richard re-entered the fray.

“Darcy, if you had a friend in need of your help, would you back down simply because of reluctance on his part to accept it? I think not, it is not your way. Even you must see the prudence of what Bingley here is saying. You will be soon required to lend yourself to other matters and need to conserve your energies to that task. Besides which…” Richard could not bear to allow such a tease to go unanswered. “Should we have the need, we can always rely upon Mr. Bennet of Longbourn. He has had such a success with his fields to keep his daughters well-heeled, I am sure any suggestions on his part would be well thought out.”

Bingley’s mouth dropped open. “I say, there is no call for such an insult…”

He could not believe the slight to his father-in-law spoken by the colonel and was want to take more offense when Darcy began to chuckle. In confusion Bingley looked from one to the other man, gathering then that the statement was merely an ongoing jest between the two cousins who must have earlier spoken of the obviously unsound practices of the master of Longbourn. Bingley was learning some of Richard’s tactics, reasoning that the slight had been said only to illicit a response from Darcy who finally acquiesced to their proposal with a nod, but not without his own barbs of warning.

“You will do no such thing, Richard or I will have your head removed and placed on one of the gate spikes.”

Richard laughed and nodded.

Darcy added, “You will keep Mr. Withers informed of all your decisions…”

“Of course,” Bingley agreed, “and if some problem should arise for which neither myself nor neither Richard nor even Mr. Withers can handle, only then will we come to you for advice.”

“You are making the correct decision, Darcy.”

“Then why do I not have so good a feeling about it, Richard?”

“Because no part of your brain is sufficiently rested at the moment to make sense, man. Come. Let us get you to bed.”

Darcy protested with a shake of his head. “I have to escort Elizabeth to her chambers first.”

“Tonight allow me that honor, brother,” offered Bingley who bowed. Departing the study he met with Darcy’s housekeeper and made a request of her. She stared at the master’s brother for some moments before finally nodding her agreement.

Darcy barely remembered walking to his room with Richard’s assurances that they could hardly wreak too much havoc to Pemberley in so little time. Nor did Darcy recall much as his valet helped him disrobe for retirement or think anything the matter when the small glass was pushed into his hand and he was ordered to drink. The last thing Darcy recollected was of Richard smoothing the counterpane over his prone body in his bed, and saying, “Good night, Darcy. Pleasant dreams,” something Richard truly wished his cousin, unlike his own troublesome thoughts during the night. Darcy’s eyes closed in sleep before his cousin reached the door, and did not open them again for an entire day.

Bingley and Richard came together for the next few days to manage the estate along with Mr. Withers, all three at first daunted by the myriad of decisions needed for so great an estate as Pemberley. After some organizing, they all seemed to grow in confidence of their specific abilities to implement the design which Darcy and Elizabeth had elaborately plotted. All seemed to be going as planned.

A problem arose when one of the tenants took umbrage at their forcing him to leave one of his fields fallow for the season. When Bingley tried to reason with the burly man, repeating of his being given compensation by Darcy in lieu of the crop, he seemed incapable of understanding until Richard’s stern interdiction with a hand posed on his pistol finally convinced the tenant to agree to the plan.

It was during the return ride to the manor house, their horses both at a slow walk through the lush country setting, that Bingley asked in all seriousness, “I say, Richard, would you have truly resorted to violence upon that fellow over our disagreement?”

“What do you think, Bingley?”

“I am not certain, but that you are a soldier. I cannot but believe you are capable of using extreme force to bend others to your will.”

Richard looked him straight in the eye and said, “Well then, that should be sufficient knowledge to instill order.”

Bingley stayed silent for the remainder of their ride back, not quite sure to what Richard had admitted to, but Bingley had no desire to restate his question lest he exact the certainty of it.

No, allow me to believe that it was merely a bluff and he had not the intention of backing up his threat.

The result was with Richard’s heavy handed enforcement of Darcy’s plan leading to gossip around the neighboring properties, repetition of the threat was unnecessary.

All three men seemed glad that Darcy’s plan for the spring plantings was now being implemented. Each had a renewed admiration of the great responsibility Darcy had so ably wielded all these years for the benefit of Pemberley and much of the surrounding villages. None of them had before any idea of the intricacies of the business dealings Darcy had been involved in until they jointly attempted to execute them with, they were sure, less finesse than the master of Pemberley could accomplish.

Elizabeth’s room remained dark, and she felt the warmth of the hot bricks wrapped in towels on her back as she lay on her side. It gave her relief from the constant pain she felt these last few weeks, allowing her a small amount of sleep that she so desperately needed. She felt secure with her beloved, her head in his lap, and his arms around her shoulders. Voices seemingly far off mumbled in her haze of sleep as she licked her lips and tried to speak. “Water?”

Jane’s voice was very near. “Yes, Lizzy? What do you wish?”

“Water, please, Jane.”

More murmuring voices, and then Jane’s gentle hands helped Elizabeth to rise slightly from the bedclothes to take a sip or two of the cool water. Elizabeth blinked, adjusting her eyes to the darkness in her room with the garden walls. She looked around but Darcy was no where about. There was only Jane, Betty, and another maid stoking the fire to keep the room and the bricks warm.

“Where is Fitzwilliam? I thought he was here a moment ago.”

“He is resting in his room at present, Lizzy, as you must do. Lay back down now.”

Still drowsy, Elizabeth did as Jane bid, as the older sister smoothed down the bedclothes and then sat beside her pillows once more encircling Lizzy in her arms, humming softly a lullaby from their childhood. “Oh, Jane, you are such a blessing to care for me.”

“There is nowhere I would rather be, dear Lizzy, than to care for you in your time of need, just as you would care for me, did care for me when I fell ill at Netherfield.” Both sisters smiled at the memory that had begun this journey which led to their current happiness.

Another thought came to Elizabeth before she began to drift off again. “How is Georgiana? She does not seem happy and I worry for her, Jane.”

Jane had noticed that the young girl seemed less than cordial when they attended to Lizzy’s care, and indeed did not appear as cheerful as she had been these past months, but Jane did not think it anything for Lizzy to worry over at present.

“Georgie is fine and is practicing a new piece of music to entertain you and Fitzwilliam when you both feel better, Lizzy.”

It was true that Georgianna had been diligent on her pianoforte almost to the exclusion of all else, and Jane thought to ask if something was upsetting her only to have Georgianna reply in crisp brief sentences that she was fine at present and asked then if she could retire to her room to write some letters she had been lax in replying.

Elizabeth whispered, “I must speak with her later to see if I can discover what is troubling her lately,” but was soon fast asleep. Jane smiled at her now peaceful sister, whose exhaustion both she and Darcy’s housekeeper had stemmed before there were any adverse effects on the baby. She frowned still worried over Fitzwilliam and hoped Charles had taken the same care with him.

After three days time, Darcy began to stir from his bed, mumbling to be set free. His old valet, Rutherford came beside him. “Good morning, sir. How do feel?”

“Rutherford? Where…?” Looking about the room, he finally recognized that he was in his own chambers rather than Elizabeth’s.

“How did I come to be here?”

“Sir?”

“Rutherford.”

“Yes, sir?”

“What day is it?”

“Er…why it is Thursday, sir…the 7th of May…18-”

Darcy was livid. Richard!

“Yes, yes, of course!” Darcy threw off the covers and rose from the bed too quickly. His head ached, and he gruffly ordered, “get me some clothes, Rutherford.”

“Yes, sir. Do you wish me to have a bath drawn for you, sir?”

But Darcy was in no mood for bathing. “No, just…get me some pants, Rutherford.”

“Yes, sir.”

Having donned his trousers, Darcy needed to sit down again on the bed and draw several breaths to free his mind of the fog of his drugged sleep. Running his hand through his hair and seeing Rutherford still standing nearby holding a fresh shirt and a vest, Darcy waved the remainder of clothing away and he stated in a more sedate manner, “I…I shall have a bath in an hour’s time.”

“Very good, sir.”

“…and Rutherford?”

“Yes, sir?”

“Thank you for tending to me these last few days.”

“Yes, sir.”

Leaving his obviously annoyed master, the old valet went to have the servant heat water for the bath while Darcy fought to become more awake and immediately thought of Elizabeth. He quickly rose from the bed, and walked to the door adjoining their chambers, knocked softly. Hearing no response, he slowly turned the knob and opened the door into the quiet, darkened room.

Adjusting his eyes, Darcy saw Elizabeth sleeping soundly, and expelled his held breath, relieved of part of his worry that she had been suffering. Moving close to the bed, he leaned near to her face to see that she was indeed finally sleeping soundly, and he smiled at the vision before him. Her hair was loose and splayed on the pillows, and her cheeks were flushed from sleep.

Without even opening her eyes, she breathed in sandalwood mixed with her husband scent and exhaled with a sigh. “Fitzwilliam.”

“Yes, my love,” he whispered, thinking she had called out to him in her sleep.

“I missed you.” She opened her eyes to see him smiling at her.

He gently kissed her forehead. She closed her eyes.

“How do you feel?”

“Better,” she inhaled his scent once more as she heard his whispered request.

“Go back to sleep.”

“Stay with me.” She opened her eyes again, needing to say nothing more. He nodded

Darcy gently lay down atop her bed covers, careful so as not to rouse her from her drowsiness. His hand caressed her cheek.

“Hmmm, Fitzwilliam?”

“Yes?”

“You must speak to Georgiana. She appears cool now toward me, and would not confide in me when I asked what had her upset. You do not suppose Wickham has returned to bother her again? I would not want her to be unhappy-”

“Shhhh, Lizzy, calm yourself.” Darcy’s hand stroked her forehead in a comforting manner. “The servants would have informed me of such an unlikeliness of his returning to the area. No, if Georgiana is upset, it would not be from him.”

“I am sure something weighs on her now, and-”

“Rest assured I will speak to her, Lizzy.” He gently kissed her temple, and continued to caress her cheek in a soothing manner. “I will take care of it. You need not worry on it now. Rest your eyes. Go to sleep, my love.”

She smiled and fell once more into a complacent slumber knowing he was now indeed beside her. He watched her relaxed breathing as she slept while he stroked her cheek. Vowing to have a word with his sister over her cool behavior these past few weeks, he instead soon followed Elizabeth’s example, dropping off into slumber beside his beloved in a natural sleep that lasted for several hours.

The servants were aware of Mrs. Reynolds strict orders to allow the couple their rest whenever possible until the babe arrived, so when old Rutherford entered the master’s bedchamber to find him absent and the adjoining door ajar, he sighed and returned to the bathroom to have the servants not fill the tub.

Betty, who had been gratefully returned to Pemberley upon her mother’s recovery and in time to be of use to her mistress for such a blessed event, came quietly into the bedchamber to check on Elizabeth only to find both she and Darcy in repose. Smiling, she very carefully replaced the brick against Elizabeth’s back, and tiptoed out to allow the pair sleep while they may.

That afternoon found the three men who were temporarily in charge of Pemberley hovered around Darcy’s desk, each with papers in hand. It was Richard who made the retort, “How does Darcy keep all of these details in his head without going mad?”

“I know not,” replied Mr. Withers, his grey hair falling over his brow as he re-checked the figures on his ledger. “But he has done so since before his father died, and ably so, I might add.”

Even Bingley, who had been the one to suggest their undertaking the running of Pemberley for a short duration, sighed at so daunting a task, glad that his own property was nowhere near as large nor with details as complex, relieved that his own plans had already been implemented. He swallowed and squared his shoulders, renewing his perusal of documents before him. “Come, let us continue then that we have this part finished before it is harvest time.”

This jest brought both of the others to chuckling.

“Rightly so, Bingley.”

After even this short duration of intense decision making, it was likewise the joint conclusion of these normally confident, reliable, intelligent men that none of them wished the whole of the responsibility of running Pemberley for long, and they were glad when Darcy felt well rested enough to join them and take on once more the mantle of what they deemed an overwhelming task.

Darcy had been correct in his accretions that all he needed was a few days rest to become functional again. With a bath and a shave, he appeared impeccably dressed when he walked into his study, the model of the Darcy they had come to know. Richard was the first to notice his cousin standing in the doorframe.

“Darcy!”

Darcy’s voice was calm as his eyes leveled on his cousin. “Richard.”

Bingley could see his friend’s renewed healthy composure, his eyes bright and focused. “It is good to have you back, Darcy.”

“That depends on what you have done to Pemberley in the meantime.”

After a cursory scan of many of the pages of documents littering his desk, he agreed that they had done well in his absence, commending them on all their efforts in aiding himself while Jane and Mrs. Reynolds apparently had Elizabeth’s care well in hand for this brief respite.

“…except perhaps with the use of laudanum on me.” He looked directly at Richard and then at Bingley wondering if he had been under his cousin’s influence.

Richard stated unapologetically, “Sometimes, Darcy, the only way to subdue a person you do not wish harmed is to sedate him for a time.”

A tense silence filled the room.

Mr. Withers averted his eyes, pretending not to hear the exchange between the two cousins as they stared at one another.

Bingley swallowed and stood breathless, his eyes darting from one man to the other, awaiting his longtime friend’s reply.

Darcy’s gaze softened as did his voice, but he warned, “do not ever do that to me again, Richard.”

Richard nodded, but replied, “Do not again give reason to, cousin.”

Darcy’s eyes came back to Richard for what seemed an interminably long time before he too nodded with quiet determination.

Bingley closed his eyes and finally took a breath.

Chapter 21c

Posted on Thursday, 28 July 2005

Elizabeth’s confinement drew to the close the very next day hence late in the afternoon. Darcy had as yet not spoken to his still reticent sister upon his joining Elizabeth in her bedchambers where she had remained feeling poorly all day. Having lain down beside her in keeping with his unspoken promise to Richard and Bingley to rest more, Darcy had just dropped off to sleep when he was awakened by Elizabeth’s shallow breathing. She stared at him with worried eyes, and he was immediately mindful of her distress, suspecting that she had begun true labor.

“Lizzy?”

“We…we need to send for the mid-wife…she told me when I expelled water, it would be the day of our baby’s birth.”

Darcy then looked down now and saw that the bed was soaked through. Jumping up, he yanked the bell cord in a frantic manner while donning his discarded coat. Betty was not long in coming, and the knock was answered by Darcy’s brusque orders.

“Have Mrs. Reynolds send for the mid-wife and Dr. Smith at once.”

“Yes, sir,” Betty peeped and then hurriedly left without even a curtsey.

Darcy then sat back down and held Elizabeth to him as she experienced the first of what was to be a night of excruciating pains. “Lizzy, is there nothing that will help you now, some herbal concoction to alleviate your pain?”

“No,” she panted out. “We must wait for the mid-wife so as not to do anything to retard the process once begun as the other herbal remedies have done these passed months. Oh!”

He held her during an especially prolonged pain, caressing her cheek, as her arms clung to his chest so tightly he thought she might break his ribs. Barely able to breathe, he whispered, “I am here, my love. I will be here as long as you have need of me.”

When at last the pain subsided, and her breathing returned to normal, Elizabeth eased her arms’ restrictions around his ribs for which he was immensely grateful to take a long awaited deep breath.

With barely enough breath to speak she whispered, “I love you, Fitzwilliam. I love you more than you will ever know.”

The kiss she bestowed seemed desperate, wishing to convey all her desires while she still had him with her, knowing he soon would be relegated beyond her reach. He comforted her for long while before her pains returned. Seeming to realize the tenderness of his ribs, Elizabeth grabbed and held onto the post at the foot of the bed with Darcy rubbing her back. It was only after the pains had subsided did they both notice her gown still soaked through.

“Do you wish me to summon your maid to help you change in dry clothing?”

“No! I do not want you to leave my side!”

He obliged her, hugging her tightly for some moments to have her calm at which time she instructed him how to find a fresh nightgown in her armoire. Coming again to sit beside her on the bed, his eyes gazed upon her at first unable to speak of the momentous occurrence that was about to take place.

How can I convey to you what a blessing you are to me each day? How do I tell you how wonderful I think you are for risking your life to carry this Darcy child?

“Thank you.” He whispered as his mouth hungrily devoured hers, his hands cradling her head as her arms clung to him. “I love you so.”

“I love you too,” she replied, then saw such worry fill his eyes. Thinking it was remorse of what he had done that day at Pemberley she urgently let him know of her true feelings. “I would not change a thing, Fitzwilliam, no matter what happens. I am glad of the time that we have shared.”

Darcy stared at Elizabeth remembering words so similar coming from his mother when she said her farewells to him; how happy were the years married to her dear husband, no matter how short the duration. Darcy smiled at his wife and nodded, his hand caressing their child within, her skin warm to his touch. Leaning down to have his forehead against hers, both calmed in this moment of complete acceptance of whatever would befall them.

Then they went about the task at hand without more reply. He aided her out of her damp gown and drew the fresh one over her head and form, covering her completely with the addition of her dressing gown before he rose and pulled the bell cord again to summon a nearby servant.

Through gritted teeth she whispered, “Help me rise.”

His look was one of incredible disbelief. “What?”

“Mrs. Knolls expounded on the benefits of walking during this time.”

“Indeed?” His look of disbelief remained. Darcy could not conceive of a more ridiculous thought, but owing to his lack of knowledge, he did as she bid and aided Elizabeth to stand. A knock upon the door was answered by the master.

“Yes, sir?”

“Betty, everything needs to be made ready in the birthing room.”

“It is already being done, sir, by Mrs. Reynolds when first you asked for the midwife to be sent for. One of the menservants has already lit the fire while the other is setting up the chair.”

“All right, then. Have someone change this bed linen for fresh while I take Mrs. Darcy for a walk.”

Betty stood agape at such a suggestion with the Mistress ready to give birth, and took a longer time than normal to acknowledge the master’s command with a delayed and somewhat wobbly curtsey and stammering, “y-ye-yes, sir” before she left.

“Come now, Mrs. Darcy, for that walk you wish to have.”

Elizabeth smiled and took a deep breath before reaching out for his arms to secure her next to his strong frame; her legs were shaky but stable for now. He slowly ambled about the bedchamber with her in tow and breathing hard, teasing her as he motioned his head at the fern covered paper on the walls.

“Is this what you had in mind on the day we had that dreadful argument about your lack of freedom to tour Pemberley?”

Trying to laugh through her agony as tears filled her eyes, she replied with sarcasm, “Yes, this is exactly what I meant, to have a turn about my room because of your initiative to have it appear so like the grounds outside.” Then suddenly serious she added, “Have I told you lately of how appreciative I am that you took it upon yourself to decorate these rooms thusly?”

He laughed softly and kissed her cheek. “No, but you have had other things on your mind of late.” Darcy paused before he continued. “Mrs. Reynolds tells me of your insistence on having the nursery scoured yet again within the last few days, and your chambermaids doing the same to you rooms including having the curtains taken down and beat of dust.”

“I did have them removed and dusted, and I all the windows wiped clean and-”

“Mrs. Reynolds told of your trying to wash the windows yourself, and how you would only turn from the task when she had the maids lay hands upon you to prevent your climbing the ladder.”

Elizabeth laughed too, remembering her behavior that day. “I know not what came over me to think to do such. My mind was determined that day, but my judgment was impaired somewhat. I am sorry to have frightened them.”

“Mrs. Reynolds was not afraid, saying she had plans set in place should your behavior tend in that direction.”

“Indeed? She anticipated my acting irrationally?”

He nodded, smiling at her seemingly calm countenance now as they walked about the room.

An urgent knock upon the door interrupted them, and without permission Jane rushed in followed closely behind by Bingley.

Fitzwilliam and Georgiana lingered in the doorway, her face in anguish, his resigned to keep his confidence though he now had his smug confirmation of her deceit.

Over five weeks early, Mrs. Darcy! However will you explain it?

Jane’s breathlessly voiced all their concerns. “Lizzy! Are you all right?”

Elizabeth smiled and let Jane rush to embrace her. “Yes, I am fine for now, but it seems that we are to have our baby today…sometime today.”

“Oh, Lizzy! Why are you not resting? Is it good for you to be so…active just now?”

“Yes, Mrs. Knolls encouraged it actually at this stage, and now that I have been walking a bit, the pains are manageable.”

“I will remain with you until she arrives-”

“No, that is not necessary, Jane. I will be fine with Fitzwilliam until which time he must leave me.”

Jane stared agape at being rejected, her hurt misunderstanding showed on her face.

Darcy took her hand, and kissed it and smiled at her, saying gently to the other most radiant woman in his family, “you must rest, dear Jane, to keep your little one healthy. Elizabeth will call for you soon enough.”

Jane looked into the eyes of her brother, so caring and loving of her too and she smiled back. “Of course, I understand. Lizzy, I will be with you when you have need of me.” Jane hugged her sister again and kissed her cheek.

Elizabeth returned the kiss and smiled. “Everything is in wait at the moment, so you may return to whatever activities you were engaged in. When there is news we will send you word of it.”

The Colonel nodded that the situation was well in hand as any strategically planned battle, and touched his younger cousin’s shoulder to remove her from the room. “See, Georgie, everything is fine for now. This time tomorrow you will have a young nephew or niece to cuddle and coo over. Come now.”

And with a backward glance to see her brother smile at her, Georgiana allowed the Colonel to escort her from the room and down into the parlor determined to have her distracted with her music while they awaited the birth. Regardless of how either felt towards Elizabeth now, both did want all to go well for Darcy’s sake.

Bingley and Jane remained for a moment asking if they could be of any assistance in the meantime.

“If you could watch for the arrival of the midwife or Dr. Smith and usher them to us, I would appreciate that.”

“Of course, Darcy,” Bingley immediately replied.

Elizabeth whispered to her sister, “Jane, I am sure Mrs. Reynolds has been very thorough with the arrangements, but you could go to be of assistance to her. There are many things that need be done, and I am sure she will appreciate your asking.”

“Of course, Lizzy, I will go at once.” With a smile and another soft kiss both Jane and Bingley departed the room.

Darcy hugged his wife to his chest and smiled. “You know Mrs. Reynolds has no need of any assistance.”

“Yes, but Jane needs to be kept from worrying so about me.”

He kissed her lips whispering, “that is why I love you so. Even at the moment of your giving birth, you are thinking of others.”

She lowered her eyes and blushed, shaking her head. “I just wanted you alone for a while longer, my love.”

He moaned and held her close, teasing her. “Your saying things of that nature reminds me of how you came to be in this condition. Come; let us walk more to give you respite from your desires of me.”

She obliged him and smiled shaking her head. “Very soon from now you know I will not harbor these amiable feelings toward you, Fitzwilliam. Mrs. Knolls informs me that before long my curses will arise at your having done this to me.”

She pursed her lips to keep from smiling as he gazed upon her for voicing such thoughts, and she giggled with the glee of her jest, only her eyes giving away their true feelings. He joined her in the pretense, and said he hoped that it would not the case.

It was several hours later before the midwife arrived and was ushered into the room with Darcy still supporting Elizabeth strolling up and down the carpet before the hearth.

“I am glad you took my recommendation to heart, Mrs. Darcy, but perhaps it may best for you to be removed into the birthing room and sit a moment that I may examine you.”

Mrs. Knolls frowned at her husband still being with her, and curtly remarked, “you may go now, sir.”

Darcy was indignant at being so brusquely dismissed, and gave her one of his most withering stares, but the elderly lady of perhaps Mrs. Reynolds age was immune to the gruff exteriors of men folk who in her mind were useless in the extreme when it came to matters of childbirth.

He surprised her, however, with the equally stern resolve and his hushed reply. “I am not leaving her side until Dr. Smith arrives, or until my wife gives me permission to do so. Are you clear on this, Mrs. Knolls?”

Mrs. Knolls stared into Darcy’s face trying to decide if she understood him correctly and regarded his fortitude. The corners of her mouth twitched to form a smile as she made up her mind that he was indeed serious in his resolve. She turned to the door and tightened the hold on her satchel and merely said, “Yes, Mr. Darcy, I understand you completely.”

With one smooth motion he scooped Elizabeth into his arms and waited for Mrs. Knolls to open the door for them to enter the adjacent room. It was not long afterwards that Dr. Smith arrived and agreed with Mrs. Knoll’s assessment of the probable prolonged labor before the actual delivery, and his approval of herbs that would encourage the process to its fruition. Darcy was then expelled from the room into the hallway and only Jane was allowed entry for the duration.

Richard had left Georgiana to her music in favor of several games of billiards until he tired of that diversion too. Helping himself to Darcy’s brandy carafe and three glasses he made his way back to the hallway where Darcy and Bingley were holding vigil.

Decanting the bottle Richard handed both a drink. Bingley and Richard shared a good portion of the bottle while Darcy held his untouched glass while watching the door to the birthing room, willing for something to occur but being disappointed in the unusual quiet.

Several hours later Georgiana joined the trio, wishing of news only to be informed of there being no news as yet. She was accompanied by Wilkins who Mrs. Reynolds had insisted be present. There was but a short time of silence before Mrs. Knolls then encouraged Elizabeth to relieve her pain with several loud cries that brought all in the hall to their feet staring at the door, and unfortunately unhinged Darcy.

It was a good thing that he had the support of his cousin and his brother-in-law for it took their combined efforts and that of Wilkins to keep Darcy from entering the chamber the first time she cried out in pain. Mrs. Reynolds heard him bang on the door demanding entrance and came out of the room with strong admonishments of his “being of no use” to the mistress. This had no effect upon Darcy, and even Georgiana was rebuffed when she tried to keep him at bay, yelling into his gentle sister’s face, “NO! I will not be kept from her in her time of need!”

Finally it was another gentle soul who made him see reason, someone who had silently exited the room and now stood before him. She put her hands on his cheeks that he be made to stare into her eyes that now sparkled so like Elizabeth’s.

When first they had met Darcy had mistaken Jane’s sweet compliant and gentle manner for weakness. Now, however, as the wife of his friend and herself with child, Jane showed him just what mettle was held within her slight form.

Her voice was soft and he had to strain to make it out. “Fitzwilliam! All is well. Say this with me, brother. All is well.”

And for no one else but her he obliged; his soul calming in her gentle assertion. “All is well.”

“I need you to repeat that to yourself, Fitzwilliam. Even when you hear Lizzy cry out in order to push your child into this world, repeat it aloud. All is well. All is well.”

“All is well. All is well.” He heard Elizabeth scream and he shuddered, closing his eyes, unsure of anything at the moment, but Jane heard him whisper, “All is well.”

She smiled, and taking his hand, directed him to a nearby chair. Sitting beside him, Jane’s soft voice carried through the silent hallway. “Lizzy is abiding by everything both the doctor and midwife instruct, Fitzwilliam, but they are in agreement that it will be a while yet before she delivers. You must be patient.”

Darcy merely nodded as Jane sat with him to help him calm; her own husband joining them to lend his support to his friend. Richard and Georgiana remained some feet away with Richard trying to keep his young cousin from fretting too much. Mrs. Reynolds had returned into the room while Wilkins stood before the door as though a sentry guarding his mistress even from the master, a duty he disliked immensely as proof of his frown.

Some time later, Jane squeezed Darcy’s hand to find his eyes upon her, but his face composed in resignation that he was in control of himself once more. She smiled and rose, motioning for him to remain seated, and then she turned and re-entered Elizabeth’s room to be of aid to her sister.

It was well past the midnight hour when Darcy noticed Georgiana nodding off while seated in a chair, and began trying to persuade her to retire to her rooms.

“Georgiana, I promise to awaken you as soon as there is any news of the babe’s arrival.”

She could barely keep her eyes open and merely nodded with his sensible request and took his hand when he offered to escort her above stairs, but she insisted he remain. “I can manage, Fitzwilliam. Good night then.”

Darcy kissed her cheek noting that she did not respond to his affectionate gesture as she turned to the hallway leading to the stairs. Thinking she too was more fatigued that first he had imagined, he would delay speaking to her of her recently behavior until after she had been restored to health.

The three men thought she had already departed up the stairs when they began to converse while remaining in the hallway. Darcy leaned both arms upon the door, worry lining his face.

Georgiana had just turned the corner when she quit her retreat upon hearing the unconcerned tone in Richard’s quip, “let us too remove ourselves to your study, Darcy, and partake in a brandy or two to relieve the tension a bit. They will surely call us should anything develop.”

Darcy gave Richard a most withering stare that would have turned most men to stone at such a suggestion. Then Darcy closed his eyes and his face became inscrutable once more, hiding all the emotions churning inside, his voice was quiet. “I will not leave her, Richard. You and Charles may go if you wish, and you as well, Wilkins. Mrs. Reynolds has admonished me with your presence for far too long.”

Wilkins paused but for a moment before he bowed to depart, knowing the master well enough to hear his word of honor to remain without. “Yes, sir.”

Bingley was unsure of this course of action. “You…will not attempt to enter again?”

Darcy shook his head. “No, not unless I am…summoned.”

As soon as the word left his lips Darcy’s mouth went dry as he thought back in his past when he was summoned at the age of sixteen by his father to his mother’s bedside…to have him say his farewells to her. His eyes misted, and he required several deep breaths to strengthen his resolve that such an occurrence would not befall his wife.

“She comes from strong stock, Darcy.” Bingley said, hoping it was true of his wife as well.

Darcy nodded to Bingley, but then gave his cousin such a look of desperation. “Richard, I know not how I will survive if she does not.”

Richard assured his cousin with the insulting remark. “Darcy, she is nothing like your mother.”

Georgiana winced, knowing the true meaning behind her cousin’s contemptuous words.

Richard, who had experienced only a few fleeting instances of true love during the whole of his life time, could not fathom such a depth of love that was obvious from the Master of Pemberley.

Darcy waited nearly half of his life to find such a woman as Elizabeth, only to have her already known by another. How convenient she neglected to inform him to have him so willing to make her an offer. It seemed no cost mattered so long as he acquired her, as though she were some... rare jewel.

Richard sneered at his own ability to view her still in those terms and hoped he would never be as dependant as his cousin on the kind of love where nothing else mattered in the world.

Darcy hovers so over her. Would he truly die if she ever left him? Is he so besotted with her? And she…she who was already with child when he married her, admitted as much when I spoke to her. I should tell him of her betrayal. Perhaps it would save him the anguish if she were to expire.

Richard seemed more agitated in his indecision than the expectant father, his unease growing by the minute. He thought back again to Darcy’s wedding, and how Darcy had hovered over her then too, so out of character for him.

Could he have known she was with child even before the wedding? Is that the reason for his willingness to marry her in so short a time?

Shaking his head, refusing to believe that notion, Richard took another swallow of brandy and became even more restless with the secret he harbored, a secret he began to have second thoughts about speaking of to his cousin, and wondered anew if his cousin could have known of her condition at the time of their marriage.

Why would he marry someone who had been taken by another? Had Darcy loved her so unconditionally that he could raise a child begotten of someone else? Surely no man could love a woman that completely.

Richard’s mind boggled at his being able to consent to such an idea, but knowing his cousin even as a youth Richard realized Darcy had always an intensity about him that conveyed that of an old soul, wise beyond his years.

Still he is just a man, a very possessive man.

The soldier in Richard tried to reason out his cousin’s behavior should the truth be known to him.

How could so jealous a man as Darcy stand to live with another man’s progeny? Just how long has he loved Elizabeth to be willing to sacrifice his own heir for hers?

Finally both the drink and his own inter turmoil bolstered him to boldness. He could keep his thoughts silent no longer. “Darcy, how can you not resent this child who is not your issue? I surely would.”

Leaning against the wall for support, Georgiana gasped as she heard Richard break his promise to Elizabeth not to inform Fitzwilliam for fear he would revert into his downward spiral of drink and despair.

How could you, Richard? Oh, brother, I am so sorry.

Both Darcy and Bingley now gazed at Richard in stunned silence, neither at first able to speak. Darcy finally realized part of what had been troubling Richard. His face must have shown exactly what he was thinking.

How could he possibly think Elizabeth was unfaithful?

“When I asked, Elizabeth did not deny that she was with child before your marriage, Darcy.”

Before he could reply, Darcy felt a firm hand grip his arm. Turning to stare at Bingley Darcy saw him shake his head in an understanding way. Darcy swallowed with the realization.

Bingley knows? But who told him?

“Jane?”

Bingley nodded.

“How long?”

“The week before your marriage.”

Darcy eyes widened as gazed at his friend who had not judged him. “And you said nothing?”

“I promised Jane I would not speak of it to anyone.”

“You are my true friend, Charles.” Bingley only smiled.

“You aided me to win back my Jane, for which I shall be eternally grateful.”

Darcy nodded and then stared once more at Richard, and his shoulders slumped at his cousin saying so degrading a thing of Elizabeth, his wife. He could not allow her to be blamed.

“It is not another man’s, Richard.”

“Darcy, I know you must defend her honor, but I am well aware that of her being with child before she married you, must mean-”

“I fathered her child.”

Georgiana opened her mouth, but was unable to make a sound. She leaned against the wall to keep from fainting in total disbelief at her brother’s statement.

No, that…cannot be! My brother saved Elizabeth from such a fate as might have befallen me…is now admitting he himself stoop as low as… it was not Elizabeth then who betrayed us but…my own brother who…took advantage…no, I will hear no more of this!

Sobbing, she ran through the deserted hallway not stopping until she gained her rooms. Slamming the door she threw herself across the bed and wept bitterly, realizing that all her eavesdropping had done was cause her more anguish, and thinking all her world was based on lies. Everything she had known to be true was now in shambles.

Downstairs Richard likewise stood stunned before his cousin in amazement at what Darcy had just admitted. It made no sense.

How could he have fathered her child before their marriage? At no time had they been together to give Darcy the opportunity to…and regardless, he would never have acted in such a manner.

“Cousin, in all the years I have known you, not once have you given in to your baser instincts. After your father had you initiated at Harcourt House*,after all the times when Hal and I offer to escort you to the brothels in London trying to educate you in the ways of female manipulation of rich men…you merely accompanied us and very courteously rebuffed every one of those charming ladies. We knew then you were incapable of being fooled by any woman who would tempt you…except it seems by Elizabeth.”

Darcy swallowed staring directly now into his cousin’s face. “I was the tempter, Richard. I…seduced her.”

Richard’s eyes bore into him, his emotions and his voice rose in disbelief. “When!”

“The day I came back to Pemberley and found her separated from her party while touring the gardens.”

Richard’s expression was total astonishment as he continued his interrogation. “After we had such a row the night before about my disapproval of your heading out from London so early and unescorted, without even your valet as company?”

“Yes.”

“The only reason I allowed you to leave London was because you were so adamant to be removed from the city’s bustle in favor of the solitude of Pemberley. You were so decisive I thought you had recovered your health, and regained your equilibrium so lacking from past months.”

Staring now into his cousin’s now unmasked face Richard was reminded of the months previous with Darcy so ill from some malady none of their physicians could diagnose as anything other than emotional melancholia for which Richard had thought such drivel. At the time he thought Darcy’s sleeping but rarely during the night was the contributing factor of his affliction.

That and the heavy drinking that kept him in such a stupor.

Richard’s keen military mind reasoned it through now. “You were nowhere near recovered when you convinced me to allow you leave London.”

Darcy shook his head.

Richard continued. “You have not been well since…my, G-d!” Richard had finally figured it all out now. “… since Kent, when last you saw Elizabeth.”

Darcy took a deep breath and let it out slowly, deciding to explain his most personal thoughts and actions to the two people he trusted most after his wife.

“While at Rosings I asked for her hand and she refused me.” He heard both Richard and Bingley gasped with surprise at this news. Darcy implored his cousin with pleading eyes. “Richard…you know I would never have acted so…never have even thought to…but…”

Both Richard and Bingley waited silently for him to reveal what he had never voiced to anyone from that day until now. Darcy’s face colored while he tried to explain what appeared a moral lapse to any who did not understand.

“I…could not live without her. She would not have me.” He winced remembering his feelings that day and he shook his head. “My…mind could not reconcile itself to those two diverse facts...I… (he swallowed) began having delusions...dreams…my mind had invented a world where I was happy because she was with me there…as my wife.”

Bingley’s eyes widened at this news while Richard asked, “That was when you began acting so out of character, the drinking, the roaming the halls at night, neglecting everything and everyone else in your life?” Bingley gasped again realizing the limits Richard has gone to keep Darcy’s illness from society while in London, and again when they traveled to Pemberley where Bingley saw only a recovered Darcy, and remained silent to hear what his friend had to say in his defense.

“-Except Elizabeth…I drank that I might sleep and dream of her, but the more I consumed the less I slept until my habit was to collapse in exhaustion during the early morning hours…and there she would be in my dreams. The day I returned to Pemberley I had fallen asleep beside the lake. When I awoke and walked through the trees to come upon her there, I thought myself still in a dream. In my deluded state I treated her as though she were my wife.”

“But when you…” Richard stared at his cousin still not understanding how the Elizabeth he remembered from Rosings would have permitted Darcy to act in such a manner unless…“how could she…?”

“By some miracle my words had finally touched her heart, and in all her innocence she had fallen in love with me, Richard…at last…and so willingly gave herself over to me after I made it impossible for her to refuse me. It was I, Richard, who took her virtue that day, that extraordinary day.”

The hallway fell silent as both men pondered all of what Darcy had stated. Still feeling offended by his cousin’s reluctance to confide in him, Richard accused him. “You harbored all of this in your heart all this time, never intending to tell me?”

Darcy shook his head and sighed. “I knew you would be off soon fighting somewhere on the Continent. Your worry over me might cause you to become…careless, unfocused. I did not want to be responsible for any harm that might befall you or your men.”

“You chose to deliberately keep me in the dark? Darcy, I did worry over your renewed sanity even before I left, not knowing how it had come about, not knowing if it would hold until my return.”

Continued in Next Section