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Chapter 24 ~ continued

The next day did not bring cheerier feelings. David had been up most of the night in the study. Expresses were issued from Pemberley at all hours of the night. He wrote long letters to Stevens and the staff at Bramble Hall regarding Sharon’s disappearance. He wrote an inquiry to the school to find out if anything more had been discovered. He wrote a letter to his former solicitor, Heathcliff Barrows, encouraging Mr. Barrows’ complete cooperation with Mr. Weatherstone’s investigation, otherwise Mr. Barrows might find himself in some difficulty for overstepping his power of attorney and failing his fiduciary duty. David also spent several hours calculating his net worth. His calculations did not bring him much cheer. In order to raise the thirty-five thousand pounds to repay the Warners for their loss as well as pay for the ongoing investigation into the missing money and finding his sister, he must sell his all of his remaining assets, including Clifton Manor, leaving him virtually penniless. Mr. Weatherstone urged the Viscount to delay any drastic decisions until the investigation was concluded, but David was not certain. He could see no happy ending to his plight and worried that delaying the inevitable would only bring him more heartache.

At the sound of the four o’clock chime, David concluded his work and staggered up to his bed. He was exhausted, had not slept in days, and could not think clearly. Promptly at seven, his valet entered his bedchamber and woke him. David had given explicit orders that he be awoken every morning at seven, no matter what condition he was in or where he may be. He dragged himself out of bed and dressed, and promptly at eight o’clock was downstairs in the breakfast room waiting for Georgiana.

He was sitting at the breakfast table with a plate of untouched food in front of him when she entered. “David,” she gasped, looking at his long, tired face and the large bags under his eyes. He seemed to have aged five years overnight. “You do not look well.”

He managed a smile. “I am well. Just a little tired, that is all. Nothing that a few cups of tea cannot cure. Did you sleep well, my dear?”

“Y-y-yes I did,” she answered quietly. “M-m-my brother stayed up with Father last night.”

“Good.”

Silence fell over the pair as she struggled to think of what to say next and he struggled to stay awake. The silence between them agonized her. “Have you heard of any news?” she finally asked.

“No. Nothing new.”

“Oh.”

After fifteen more minutes, Darcy entered the room. “Good morning,” he said before walking to the sideboard and assembling his breakfast. Darcy’s appearance looked worse for wear. Traveling for many weeks and then staying up all night had taken its toll. He had dark circles under his eyes and a worn expression. He had also spent the night wondering about the expresses that he saw leaving Pemberley. “Are both of you well?” he asked after taking his seat.

“Yes, very well. I thank you,” replied his cousin. “And thank you for staying with your father last night. George needed her rest in order to regain her pretty, youthful glow. I appreciate your efforts very much.”

“’Tis nothing. Besides, it is my family remember?” Darcy glanced at Georgiana, who he now noticed was bright red. “Georgiana, are you unwell?”

She turned a brighter shade of red when David looked up from his untouched plate of food and furrowed his brow. “George? Are you feeling well? Should we call a doctor?”

“N-n-no. I am well. T-t-there is no need to worry about me,” she replied while jumping up and racing from the room.

A half hour later, David was back in the study behind closed doors. Meanwhile Darcy paced outside of the door, contemplating what his cousin’s presence meant. For as long as he could remember, no one other than his father ever sat behind his desk with his permission. If Mr. Darcy caught one of his children playing in the study, they received a very stern lecture. “William, this room in not for your amusement,” he would begin. “This is where the business of the estate is conducted. This desk and that chair are meant for only one person, the master of Pemberley. Until it is your turn, I will sit behind this desk. I expect you to honour my wishes…” And now his domineering cousin sat behind the desk and conducted himself as if he were the master of Pemberley. I can understand David carrying on some of the estate business whilst I was away, but now that I have returned by all rights I, and not David, should be managing Pemberley’s affairs, Darcy thought. Instead, his cousin sat in on important meetings with his father and solicitor. His cousin helped his father rewrite his will. By the look of the maps in the room, his cousin is apparently helping his father acquire more farmland. And where does it leave George Darcy’s only son? As a nursemaid, and nothing more.

Finally, Darcy decided to confront his cousin with his concerns. He approached the study door and knocked.

“Enter.”

Darcy walked into the study and closed the door. He strode up to the desk, looked at the map, and tried to leaf through the papers on the desk, which was prevented because David hastily gathered them all up and shoved them into a drawer.

Darcy frowned and asked his cousin, “Is there anything that I should know about?”

“No.”

“Anything that I may help with?”

“No thank you.”

Darcy’s patience began to wear thin. “Pemberley is my home, not yours. If you are conducting business, I ought to know about it. I should be privy to your conversations and correspondence.”

David shook his head. “As I have said before, it is not what you think. This business does not concern the estate.”

“Then if it isn’t Pemberley or concerns of my Father holdings, what is it? What concerns you so that you are up half the night worried about it?”

David scowled, but said nothing.

Darcy narrowed his eyes suspiciously, clearly not believing what he was hearing. “Will you explain the expresses going back and forth and the meeting with my father’s solicitor?”

“No. Any meetings that I have with your father and his solicitor strictly concern the three of us and not you,” David replied.

Darcy glowered at his cousin. “Speaking of my concerns, how did you break your arm and ribs?”

“I fell.”

Darcy narrowed his eyes. “From where?”

Growing irritated with his manner, David looked blandly back at him, “From a height high enough to break a limb.”

“Father told me that you were riding Apollo when the accident occurred.”

“Yes.”

“Father also told me that Apollo was racing around Pemberley like a crazed horse and we are lucky that the horse did not kill someone.”

David sighed, “Is there a point to this?”

“He had Apollo shot because he thought that the horse was dangerous, but you knew better. You killed my horse!” Darcy fumed.

David shook his head. “I did not kill your horse. In fact I tried to save it from being destroyed…”

Darcy’s growing fury could no longer be contained. His overbearing cousin had pushed him too far. “But he was my horse, and now he is dead! I bred that horse and was there for his birth. I raised him from when he was a colt and trained him personally. That horse was as gentle and obedient as they come. He would not have galloped around madly unless you urged him. You had no right to ride him! You did this!”

“It was not my intent to have your horse killed. I’ll buy you another…”

“No!” Darcy spat. “At some point you will learn, Your Lordship, that not everything can be made better by an open wallet and a wave of a hand!”

David scowled with his temper pushed to the breaking point, “And at some point Darcy, you will learn that there are more important things in life than an animal! Now if you insist on continuing in this belligerent, childish manner, I refuse to discuss this any further! Your horse is dead. I am sorry. What was done is done!”

Darcy spun on his heels and stormed out of the room. “Selfish, spoiled tyrant!” he fumed as he slammed the door to the study.

David frowned at the door as he heard Darcy stomp down the hall. “Blast,” he muttered to himself.

Darcy grumbled as he returned to his father’s bedchamber. He took several deep breaths and composed his features before entering the room. When he quietly entered, he saw Georgiana sitting next to their sleeping father. “How is he?” he asked while picking up a chair and placing it beside her.

“He ate a little gruel,” she whispered. “And drank a little weak tea, but that is all. I think the pain is manageable today.”

“Good… And yourself, how are you?”

Georgiana’s eyes welled up with tears. “He is so weak, William.”

“I know,” he soothed while putting a comforting arm around her.

Just then, Mr. Darcy stirred and Georgiana quickly dried her tears and put on a smile. “William,” Mr. Darcy weakly said.

“I am here Father.”

“Georgiana, I need to talk to your brother for a moment. Do you mind?”

“No Father,” she said while rising. “I will wait outside.”

As soon as Georgiana left the room, Mr. Darcy addressed his son. “I wish for you to do something for me.”

“Anything Father.”

“Please be supportive of your cousin and help him in anyway you can. He takes too much upon himself and I am concerned for him.”

Darcy frowned. “David does not need my help. He has refused it every time I offer.”

Mr. Darcy nodded his head and smiled sympathetically. “I know son, but I want you to be as supportive as you can. He is a good man, though a tad overwhelmed at the moment. I know that his treatment of you can be brusque, but he has his reasons… And sometimes you provoke him. Do not disagree with him and instead try to listen and do as he asks.”

“But Father,” Darcy protested, “You know that we have never been on good terms.”

“Yes,” he replied with a smile. “That is because you are both stubborn, proud, and used to your own way. You are too much alike to ever be good friends. I am not blind. You are both intelligent men with good sense. You both expect to lead and have everyone else follow. Neither of you yield to anyone else’s judgment nor do you generally seek someone else’s counsel... But he has done everything he can for Georgiana and me and I want for you to be more forgiving of his faults.”

Darcy sighed, “Yes Father.”

“I am going to change my will. I am naming you, Richard, and David as Georgiana’s guardians.”

“No! David is implacable and impossible for anyone to reason with!” Darcy exclaimed incredulously. “Name Richard if you must but do not name David. We cannot and will never agree on how best to care for Georgiana!”

“William, David is a man of good sense...”

“Really? Then why does he insist on calling her by a boy’s name? If you give him guardianship, the next thing he will demand is for her to wear britches! No Father, you cannot give him any rights to order your innocent child around!”

“He has always been very kind to Georgiana...”

“No Father, I insist! I will not hear of him having control over her!”

With that, Mr. Darcy’s coughing spasm ceased further discussion.

After Darcy left, David contemplated their discussion but with little satisfaction. He knew he was wrong for being so sharp with Darcy and exhaustion had worn away the better part of his temper, however he did not know how to convey to his cousin that he definitely did not need assistance. There is one point which I may defend myself and offer an explanation that Darcy will understand, and that is about his horse. I had to devise some plausible way to stay here at Pemberley for several months and falling off of his horse was the best means at my disposal. Surely if he knew all of the circumstances surrounding the death and how I did try and stop it, his dislike of me would at least be softened a little. He sat in the study alone for some time, contemplating what best to say to Darcy before settling on a course of action.

After sitting in the study considering what he would say for the better part of a half an hour, David left the study and walked towards Mr. Darcy’s bedchamber. He found Georgiana standing just outside of the door, straining to hear the conversation occurring within. She was intently listening at the door and didn’t hear him approach.

“George, what are you doing?” he asked. Georgiana jumped at his question. A deep blush quickly overtook her features as she tried to think of a logical explanation for the compromising position she found herself in. Realizing her predicament, David decided to rescue her from further embarrassment. “Is Darcy speaking with your father?”

“Y-y-yes. He is.”

“And you are waiting in the hall for their conversation to conclude?”

“Yes.”

“If you do not mind, I’ll wait with you. I want to apologize to Darcy for being so cross with him. I guess my exhaustion has caught up with me,” David sheepishly admitted. “He came in to speak with me in the study and I drove him out.”

Very worried, Georgiana looked up at him, “Do not be too hard on yourself. You have been under a terrible strain.”

David shook his head, “That is no excuse. I was rude and must atone for it.”

“Perhaps if William knew of the strain you are under, he would be more understanding,” she quietly replied.

David looked down at the ground in shame at her gentle rebuke. “Perhaps,” he admitted.

Just then, the door opened. “Georgiana, would you like to come and see Father?” Darcy asked.

“Yes I would and David would like to speak to you,” she answered before walking into the room, pushing Darcy into the hall, and shutting the door behind him.

Darcy glowered at his cousin. “What do you want?” he asked in a flat tone while looking at his cousin with distain.

“I wanted to speak to you about our earlier conversation. I want to apolog---”

“You need not worry about me, Your Lordship,” Darcy interrupted. “I have been instructed by my Father to offer you all of the support and assistance I can offer and I will honour the commitment I have made to him.” With that, he turned on his heel and began marching quickly down the hallway towards his bedchamber.

David followed after him. “Darcy, look here. Will you please wait one moment? If you will hear me out… I know things look bad, but it is not as you seem to imagine them. Please allow me to explain. About your horse…”

Upon reaching his bedchamber door, Darcy whipped around and glared at his cousin. In a low, dangerous voice, he growled, “As you said, my horse is dead. You are sorry. What was done is done so there is nothing more to be said.” He quickly turned, entered his room, and slammed the door on his cousin’s face.

“Impossible. He is absolutely impossible,” David muttered before marching down the hall and returning to the study. “What was I thinking? Believing that the paragon of perfection, Fitzwilliam Darcy, would deign to listen to my apology or explanation? I cannot believe that I contemplated telling him everything. I must be mad!”

The day continued on much as expected. Darcy, Georgiana, and David alternated sitting by Mr. Darcy’s bed. When not with his father, Darcy contacted the local vicar and began making preparations for the inevitable. David spent his spare time locked up in the study away from his cousin. In accordance with Mr. Darcy’s request, David wrote down the amendments to Mr. Darcy’s will and sent the changes to London to have Mr. Weatherstone draw up the final document. Georgiana, having little to occupy her when away from her father, spent most of her time in her bedchamber contemplating her feelings.

Chapter 25 ~ A Change of Fortunes

Posted on Friday, 11 March 2005

On the third afternoon after Darcy’s arrival, an express arrived, bringing news that David had longed to hear. Sharon had been found. She had left her school and was discovered while riding a post towards Derbyshire. Stevens brought her back to Clifton Manor, where he gave her the worst tongue lashing of her life. The girl was exceedingly sorry. She did not intend to cause such a fright, but she was convinced that her guardian had not been taking care of himself. She decided to travel to Pemberley to look after him. In his letter to his master, Stevens urged David to be forgiving of the girl. He said that she seemed heartily ashamed of herself and that it would be best if he delayed any harsh words until he could see her for himself.

For his part, David was shocked. He had not expected his ward to act in such a foolhardy manner. He wrote her a short note explaining that he would return to Clifton Manor as soon as he could, but that she should not leave the grounds under any circumstances. He also assured her that he was very well and her fears for his health were unfounded. He also instructed Stevens to keep Sharon at Clifton Manor until his return. The butler was also told to seize and hide all of Sharon’s money, hoping that by restricting her purse strings, he could limit her ability to flee. He then sent a letter to Colonel Warner, describing the incident in full. He promised a more detailed account once he was able to return to Lincolnshire.

Therefore, it was with a gladdened heart that David was able to speak to his uncle that evening. When they were alone, the older man listened with astonishment as David read Stevens’s letter to him.

“Well David, I am glad that things have turned out well,” Mr. Darcy said once the letter was concluded.

“So am I. If I could but convey the horrible thoughts that have been plaguing me both night and day. I had imagined the worst. Thank God that my fears did not come to pass.”

“And now what you going to do about Sharon?”

David shrugged his shoulders. “She is being kept at my home where my servants are keeping a very close watch. One I return, I will give her a lecture like she has never received and then I will return her to school.”

“How old is she?”

“She just turned sixteen last week.”

Mr. Darcy brow wrinkled. “Has she ever expressed a desire to leave school?”

“Yes Uncle. I own that she has. She has been requesting to be released from school more frequently as of late.”

“Perhaps it is time. You should find her a companion, an older gentlewoman of good character. Not everything can be learned from books or a classroom.”

David was astonished. “Are you suggesting that I reward her foolish endeavour by making her Mistress of Bramble Hall? She is not ready to run her brother’s estate!”

Mr. Darcy shook his head. “No, what I am suggesting is that she is not a little girl anymore. It is time for her to begin to learn how to run an estate. Once you are home, you will be able to visit her frequently and continue to manage their business affairs. But it is time for her to start learning how to be a lady and manage dinner parties and social engagements.”

David sighed and contemplated his Uncle’s words for a minute. “Perhaps you are right. Clearly her school cannot keep an eye on her.”

“Write Weatherstone. He has a wide association with many respectable families. Possibly he can recommend a suitable companion.”

David nodded. “I will Uncle.”

“But be sure that you thoroughly check the background of any potential companion. Her dowry and family position makes her especially vulnerable to those with less than noble intentions trying to take advantage of her.”

“Quite right. I will investigate the backgrounds of all companions myself.”

Mr. Darcy nodded approvingly at his nephew. “Speaking of Weatherstone, do you yet know of any progress in his investigations?”

David shook his head. “No, I do not. I have not heard a word other than he arrived in London. Frankly, I do not expect any good news. But compared with how miserable I felt this morning, the status of my finances is of little consequence.”

“Have faith David,” Mr. Darcy soothed. “All hope is not lost yet.”

Three weeks passed with few changes for the better. Mr. Darcy’s coughing increased and his family’s concern deepened. It was clear that the end was growing near. He was in constant stomach pain and he could not eat any food. His body continued to weaken and he lost weight. His family rarely left his side. Darcy had moved cots into his father’s bedchamber so that they could rest a little while they were spending hours by Mr. Darcy’s bedside.

The Earl and Countess of Matlock, Major Richard Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine, and Anne de Bourgh all came to Pemberley to visit the dying man one last time. Darcy ensured that their visits were short as to not tire him.

During this time, Darcy’s dislike of his cousin grew. David was sometimes out of humour around him, though he was pleasant enough to his father and sister. As his father had requested, Darcy attempted to help his cousin by offering his services whenever he could. However, David rebuffed all offers and attempts at assistance. Darcy had even tried sneaking into the study when David was not present to attempt to sort out the estate’s business dealings that had been so obviously troubling his cousin, but he was caught entering the room before any useful information had been discovered. David was very agitated after discovering his cousin entering the study surreptitiously. Darcy attempted to quickly explain his concerns leading to his rash act, but his cousin would hear none of it and promptly ordered him to leave the room. Overhearing his grumbling and complaints, Georgiana reminded her brother that David had been under a great strain with little sleep during the previous two and a half months, but the excuse did not move him. “We are all exhausted,” he replied. “Why should David receive special consideration?”

It was towards the end of that week when an express arrived for David from Mr. Weatherstone. He was surprised to note that the letter came from Lyme.

Dear Lord Wallingford,

I trust that this letter will find you well and I pray that your uncle’s condition has improved.

I write to inform you that I have good news, which I am eager to share. I have discovered the villains and some of your money will be returned to you. How much money will be restored to its rightful owners is unclear, but I believe it will be a significant portion. Allow me to conclude my discussions with the authorities and I will return to Derbyshire. I expect to arrive at Pemberley within ten days with a new will for your uncle to sign and with more details regarding your investment.

Sincerely,
Randolph Weatherstone

David read the letter in mute astonishment. He had abandoned hoping for the return of any money. He believed that the fiends had fled the country and he had been preparing himself to sell Clifton Manor. Now this letter was allowing him to hope that it wouldn’t be necessary. That evening, when he was watching over Mr. Darcy and the others had left, he was able to read the letter to him. Mr. Darcy looked greatly relieved that his nephew was not ruined. It also pleased him to know that after the sacrifices his nephew made on behalf of he and his family, he was able to return part of the favour. Although he was vexed at the time that David had purposely broken his arm and ribs to force him into allowing him to stay, he was glad that his nephew had been present to assist his young daughter. Though his son needed no such attention, his daughter still seemed lost, overwhelmed, and intimidated by the world, and needed to be protected.

A week later, Mr. Weatherstone arrived. The change in Mr. Darcy had been so dramatic over the past month that he could scarce believe it. As soon as Mr. Darcy was awake, he had the ill man sign the new will, with Mrs. Reynolds and Mr. Ellis acting as witnesses.

As soon as Mr. Darcy’s last will and testament was signed and finalized, Mr. Weatherstone requested to meet with David in the study. He had news that he had no doubt that the young Viscount wanted to hear. “Mr. Barrows was very helpful,” Mr. Weatherstone began once they were alone. “Without him, I could not have found the thieves.”

“Please do not defend him. It is through his mistakes that I have suffered. Nonetheless, I do not want him to be punished for his negligence. He has been very loyal to my family,” David replied.

“That is very good of you, Lord Wallingford, because he made several mistakes. I believe his greatest one was of being too trusting. However, I hope he will learn his lesson. Nevertheless, he helped greatly with the investigation. The villains were quite clever. They swindled many wealthy investors, collected the money, and hid. Their plan was to hide for several months until the authorities assumed they had left the country, and then purchase a last minute ticket to the Continent. They thought that by hiding in England and planting clues that they fled to America, that no one would find them. Luckily for us, they spent little of their ill-gotten gains. Thanks to their frugal means, I doubt you or the Warners will lose more than four hundred pounds a piece.”

David looked at Mr. Weatherstone in mute astonishment.

Mr. Weatherstone chuckled. “Yes, I can see that you had prepared yourself for much worse. As I told you, if the foul fiends did not flee the country immediately, we had a fighting chance to find them and recover some money. In their case, they knew that a sudden fortune of two hundred and twenty thousand pounds, for that is how much they stole, would be too conspicuous if they began spending money extravagantly. Luckily, the thieves realized this and tried to live in a modest way until they could escape. The local authorities are finalizing their investigation, but I would expect that you will hear something definitive within a week or two.”

After a half hour long meeting in the study, David and the attorney emerged. They both bowed to each other and Mr. Weatherstone left, pleased that though Mr. Darcy was very ill, he was able to bring that good man and his family some comfort.

During the meeting between David and the solicitor, Darcy sat in the library, thinking no kind thoughts of his cousin. He had hoped that he could persuade David to involve him in the discussions, but his cousin was immoveable. He was also distressed that these meetings were carried on with the apparent approbation of his father. Instead of being of use to his ailing father and demonstrating his abilities, he was pushed to the side. Darcy finally resolved to speak to his father again that evening and more forcefully argue for his involvement in the business of the estate.

However, Darcy never had the chance to speak with his father on the matter. That evening, Mr. Darcy fell into a deep sleep from which he never awoke. He lingered on for several days, before finally taking his last breath.

The week after his father’s passing found Darcy in a fog. He finalized arrangements for his Father’s funeral, sent notices to family, friends, and newspapers, received condolence wishes, and greeted mourners. For his part, David left Darcy alone, understanding that each man handles grief in his own way. He kept an eye on his cousin ready to assist if Darcy seemed as if he would welcome the attention, but until such a time when tensions between them would thaw, he ensured that he was seldom seen or heard. As always, David’s concern lay primarily with Georgiana, who would rarely leave her bedchamber and never without a handkerchief in hand. When she would see him, he told her stories about her parents, as much to convey how good her parents both were as to relieve his own misery through remembering their kindness.

A day after Mr. Darcy’s service, Mr. Weatherstone came to Pemberley to read the will. The solicitor read the will out loud to its beneficiaries, who were assembled in the library for that purpose. The last will and testament of George Darcy contained few surprises. Georgiana was left 30,000 pounds for her dowry. Major Fitzwilliam was left a gift of 10,000 pounds and a share of guardianship over Georgiana. There was a suggestion that a valuable living be presented to George Wickham upon its vacancy if Darcy thought it appropriate. There were small gifts given to many of the long time servants and tenants. A book was left to David. The rest and residue of the estate passed to Darcy, as expected. The only surprise to Darcy was the book left to his cousin. It was a book of John Donne’s poems, with an inscription Remember that no man is an island on the inside of the cover. Knowing that his cousin was not a connoisseur of poetry, only prose, it struck him as an odd choice.

After the will was read, most of the attendees to the reading left, leaving Georgiana, Darcy, and David alone in the library. After sizing his cousin up, David realized it was time for him to speak. “Darcy, if there is anything I may do…” he began hesitantly.

“No thank you. I will manage on my own,” came the reply proudly.

“If you would like, I can stay and discuss business or your father’s holdings…”

“No thank you,” Darcy snapped. “I believe I can manage the estate now.”

David hesitated a moment before uttering, “I know how things appeared… I did not… I never… No one could ever…” He let out a resigned sigh, before uttering, “Your father loved you.”

“But placed his confidence in you.”

David shook his head sadly and looked at the ground. “No, no. I just turned to him for advice and assistance. He had every confidence in you.”

Darcy laughed bitterly. “I thank you for your comforting words.” Having stood the company of his obnoxious cousin long enough, he quickly left the room.

David shoulders slumped as he sighed. He was now beginning to realize how his cousin viewed his visit as well as the import of his uncle’s words, Once you start keeping secrets, you may have much to hide. One secret may spawn many others. And you may find that there is an unintended cost to your silence… He frowned when he realized that one of the unintended costs had been his cousin’s friendship and trust.

After witnessing yet another uncomfortable exchange, Georgiana bit her lip and began to contemplate how the situation may be righted. “David, you could tell him the truth…” she gently suggested.

“No, I think we are beyond that stage. Susan’s death was over five years ago. How do I explain it to anyone now? How do I explain to either Darcy or Richard that I’ve led a double life for all of these years or make them understand why I felt I had to do it? I cannot convey the depths of my grief when I lost my wife and child. Besides, his prejudice against me is so strong and I will soon be gone. I don’t believe I ought to attempt it... Please do not misunderstand me; Darcy has based his dislike on imperfect information, but information that I and my actions have led him to believe. No one else is to blame but me. And any excuses I have to give for my transgressions, from me I doubt he will want to hear it… I also believe that I have over stayed my welcome. Despite my efforts, it is obvious that my presence gives your brother pain. I do not want to cause him any more grief than he is already experiencing. I will leave Pemberley in the morning.”

Alarmed, Georgiana gasped, “But what about your injuries?”

“They are healed well enough. I have my carriage here and will ride back to Clifton Manor slowly. Do not worry my dear, I will not injure myself further.”

“B-b-but D-d-David, I w-w-would like for you to stay, if only for a little longer.”

He gave her a reassuring smile, “Do not fret George. Your brother will be here as well as Richard. They will provide for you as well as anyone can in this terrible time. Besides, it is time for you to learn how to rely on them, now that they are your guardians. I would only serve to torment your brother, which is the last thing I want. Any counsel that I would give would be most unwelcome… Your father was a good man and a wonderful father. You were very lucky. Likewise, your brother is a good and wise man. Now with your brother’s advice and guidance, you will grow into a wonderful young woman.”

Georgiana looked down at the ground and refused to look up. “Do you still have Mrs. Stanley?” she asked quietly.

David was a little surprised by this question, but answered it nonetheless. “Yes, of course. She is at Clifton Manor.”

“Will you do me a favour?”

“Anything.”

“Will you look upon her occasionally and remember me?”

David reached out and squeezed her hand reassuringly. “I promise, however I do not need a doll to remind me of my favourite cousin. I will especially look upon her whenever I am in distress. Mrs. Stanley will remind me that no matter wherever I am, I will always have a little angel looking over me.”

“Thank you,” she said before fleeing the room, running to her bedchamber and bursting into tears.

The next morning brought a bustle of activity. The Viscount’s carriage was packed and it was with no small amount of relief that Darcy waved goodbye to his cousin. Georgiana also went outside with him to say goodbye, but with such pale looks that Darcy immediately sent her back to her bedchamber to rest.

Chapter 26 ~ A Wedding in Hertfordshire

Posted on Saturday, 19 March 2005

An express arrived late in the day from Lord Matlock’s London home. Normally Johnson, the butler for the Earl of Matlock’s home, sent David’s mail post, but as it seemed to be important, he sent it express. Stevens brought the letter directly into David as soon as it arrived. “My cousin sent this for you sir.”

“Good,” David muttered while taking it. “And where did he tell my good family that I am staying?”

“I believe his latest note said that he told your mother you were in Lyme with friends.”

“Good, good. I’ll have to remember that in my next letter to mother.”

David’s arrangement with his butler, Stevens, and his butler’s cousin, Johnson, was so longstanding that the men ran the ruse with great efficiency. When David stayed in Lincolnshire, never once did anyone in his family question his activities. According to his family, he had rarely stepped in the county at all. He was usually on a trip with friends, out buying horses, or touring the countryside looking for enchanting young ladies to court. In reality, David had led a quiet existence in Lincolnshire for ten years, was known only to the local populace, and had no fashionable friends there, so the risk that his presence in the county would somehow be reported to his family or London society was slim.

October 10
Hertfordshire

Dear David,

I am the most fortunate of men. I have truly found an angel living here on Earth. I have been blessed to have Miss Elizabeth Bennet accept my humble hand in marriage. Elizabeth is the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet of Longbourn. Her elder sister, Jane, will be marrying a good friend of Darcy’s named Charles Bingley. I was fortunate enough to have Darcy introduce me to Miss Bennet when I staying with Lady Catherine in Kent over the Easter holiday. As you have probably guessed, Darcy will serve as groomsman to both Bingley and I at our double wedding ceremony. We will be married on November 2nd in Meryton. I hope you will be there.

Your brother,
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam

David smiled as he concluded the note. He was glad to see that his brother found someone worthy to marry. He did not doubt that Miss Bennet had a sufficient dowry to tempt Richard, though David had told his brother on numerous occasions that the character of the woman far outweighed the size of her purse or other trivial societal obligations.

Of course Darcy will be there, David mused. I wonder if George will also attend… David had only seen Darcy once since he left Pemberley after his uncle’s funeral and Georgiana not at all. He had stopped by Pemberley once on the way home from a trip to London. Georgiana was from home and only Darcy was there to greet him. It was a tense, short visit that convinced David that Darcy had not forgiven him for his actions. He considered explaining his situation to his cousin, except Darcy’s obvious dislike of him was so longstanding that anything he said would not likely soften his feelings towards him, especially without Georgiana present to vouch for his sincerity. Admitting all of his actions, including his previous marriage, also created a risk that his brother would not forgive him for keeping such news a secret.

Though the Darcys had traveled to Matlock during some holidays, David rarely did. He could not bear to leave Sharon alone for Christmas nor could he withstand seeing his father fawn over Darcy, continually reminding him of his shortcomings and Darcy’s merits. Only once had he been to Matlock during Christmas in the nine years that intervened between Mr. Warner’s death and that was only when Tom was home. Otherwise, David had contented himself by looking after his sister, tending to the estates, and keeping himself busy in the community. He assisted the poor, mediated disagreements between neighbors, and generally made himself useful to others. He was well thought of in the community; though more than one mother wished that the rich bachelor would notice her daughter. His sister Sharon fretted that he led a lonely existence and that it was time for him to find another bride, but when she repeatedly broached the subject with him, he would smile indulgently and reassure her that he was content living a quiet country life. The ritual of subjecting himself to the attentions of matchmaking mothers so that he could choose a pretty, but empty-headed wife, did not appeal to him.

The wedding is in two weeks, that does not give me much time, David thought to himself. In case George is there, I should go to London and buy her a nice present. Even if she is not at the wedding, I am sure Darcy would not mind giving her a gift. He smiled when he thought of how much the little girl would enjoy another companion at her tea parties.

David left three days later, purchased a lovely doll in London, and then traveled directly to Hertfordshire for the wedding event. He arrived the morning of the nuptials and eagerly waited outside of the church for Georgiana. He stood outside, clutching the doll, which was unwrapped. He had considered having the gift wrapped, then thought better of it. She might be bored during the ceremony and can use her new friend to keep her company.

As he stood outside, awaiting the arrival of his young cousin, a beautiful woman approached. She was tall, her figure was well formed, and her appearance was womanly and graceful. There was sense and good humour in her face, and her manners were perfectly friendly, unassuming, and gentle. She was wearing a lovely dress of peach coloured silk, which complimented her blonde hair well. “Well hello there!” she said to him. “I was hoping I would see you here. It has been such a long time.”

David was a bit startled that this vision of loveliness spoke to him, but he recovered himself and bowed gracefully. “Good morning,” he replied while racking his brain to remember who she was.

The woman looked down at the doll with some amusement. “Do you often play with dolls?”

“N-n-no. I-I-I… It is for my cousin George.”

The woman’s eyes opened wide in surprise. “George?” The woman’s eyes sparkled. “That is an odd gift for a boy.”

“Her name is Georgiana. I just call her ‘George’.”

The woman laughed. “And how old is your cousin?”

David furrowed his brow. Four? Five? Six? How old is she? “I cannot recall…”

He was saved from further confusion and embarrassment by the approach of his parents. “David, Georgiana, so good to see both of you on such a merry occasion,” said Lord Matlock before planting a kiss on the cheek of his niece.

As David looked at his companion once more, mortification overtook his features, much to Georgiana’s further amusement. Well of course you idiot! She is not a child frozen in time. Of course she was bound to grow up whilst you were away.

“David are you quite well?” asked Lady Matlock. “You look quite unlike yourself.”

“I-I-I am fine Mother,” he sputtered while nervously looking away and clutching the doll in his hands tightly.

“And I am glad that you can tear yourself away from gallivanting around the countryside to see your brother wed,” Lord Matlock said pointedly to David. “Might I note that Richard is your younger brother and he is getting married. Before you must run off on another horse purchasing escapade, shall we all enter the church?” asked Lord Matlock.

“I will follow you in a minute,” replied David. “I have a small errand to complete.” With that, he rushed off to give the doll to the first young girl he saw. Returning to the church, he settled into the first pew beside his parents and in front of Georgiana, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, and Caroline Bingley. He dared not look back at Georgiana, for fear that he would turn an even deeper shade of crimson than he did earlier. After he regained some composure, he whispered to his mother, “Have you met your future daughter?”

“Only briefly,” she whispered back. “Lovely girl. Her father is a gentleman whose small estate is near Meryton. I do not know much else about the family, although I do not believe that your aunt favours the match. Something about degrading the noble name of Fitzwilliam.”

David raised an eyebrow. “Lady Catherine disapproves? That is enough for Miss Bennet to win my approbation.”

“Quite so,” his mother said with a nod and a smile.

Further conversation was ceased by the appearance of the two grooms and the vicar.

As the wedding march played and the brides were escorted down the aisle, David’s memories traveled back to his own wedding eleven years earlier. He still thought of his late wife, though not as frequently and without as much poignancy as the early years. When he first became a widower, every dawn seemed like an insult to the one who would never see the new day. Now, he mostly missed having a companion to share his life with. He missed having someone to talk to during his lonely dinners. He continued to mediate on these unhappy thoughts, until his reverie was interrupted by a very loud cough and clearing of a throat. The whole congregation whirled around to see who made the noise. David turned around to see Georgiana, sitting in the second row, desperately staring at Darcy. Although others were confused as to who made the noise, David had no doubt she made it.

"Young lady, do you know a reason why either of these couples should not be wed?" the vicar asked.

Before Georgiana could answer, Darcy turned to Fitzwilliam and looked at his bewildered face. "I am sorry Fitzwilliam..." he slowly began, unsure of what he was going to say next. The whole congregation whirled back around and stared at Darcy.

Confused, Fitzwilliam asked, "Why are you sorry Darcy?"

Darcy looked Fitzwilliam in the eye and hesitated. "I… ah…" Darcy began. Nervously, he looked at his sister sitting in the second row of the church behind Lord and Lady Matlock and David. David noticed this glance and quickly looked back himself. Georgiana continued to stare at Darcy, her eyes pleading.

"William, are you all right?" Elizabeth whispered, the look of concern evident on her face. "You look a bit pale."

"Darcy! Darcy, what is it that you wanted to say to me?" Fitzwilliam urgently whispered.

“I... ah... Georgiana has not been feeling well as of late,” Darcy replied shakily. David looked forward at Darcy quizzically. “I am sorry she disturbed your wedding."

David narrowed his eyes. He turned around to glance at Georgiana once more. Illness? I think not, he said to himself.

"That's quite all right," Fitzwilliam replied with a smile.

David furrowed his brow as he looked back at his brother. George becomes very pale and weak when she is sick. She looks fine. She is healthy… However, she is not happy. But what can be distressing her now?

"Please continue Reverend," Bingley urged the clergyman.

Darcy stole one last glance at his sister before turning forward to face the minister. The look of disappointment was spread across her face.

David distinctly heard a sigh behind him. As he turned and looked at Georgiana once again, a wave of disappointment overtook her features like he had never seen before.

“David,” his mother hissed. “Will you stop squirming like a child?”

“Forgive me,” he whispered while turning back to face the front of the church for the final time.

As Elizabeth said “I will” to her wedding vows, David distinctly heard a sob. It was one he had heard many times before. When she lost her doll. When her mother died. After her father’s funeral. He did not need to look at her to know the sob was Georgiana’s and she was in great distress.

As soon as the ceremony ended and the guests began filing out of the chapel, David resolved to ask Georgiana about her problem, knowing that only the deepest of disappointments or unhappiness could produce such a depth of emotion. However, a minister thwarted his plans for a quick escape. Not the clergyman who conducted the ceremony, but another. “Lord Wallingford,” the man began, “I am William Collins. You will be happy to know that I am your aunt, the Right Honourable Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s vicar. I am pleased to report that your aunt and cousin are in health.”

“As they are here now, I can readily see that with my own eyes,” he replied while trying to move around him and follow Georgiana. However, Mr. Collins, too accustomed to his own wife’s attempts to flee, naturally stepped in his path.

“Of course, your Lordship, of course,” Mr. Collins said with a bow. “I am also pleased to report that they traveled here to the wedding in their barouche box and were very comfortable.”

“Wonderful,” answered David as he stood on his toes to look over the good clergyman and locate Georgiana. “Glad to hear it.” Although David stood a full head taller than Mr. Collins, he hoped that Mr. Collins would take the hint and move out of his way. However, his attempts at subtlety were lost on the man.

“In fact, the great Lady Catherine de Bourgh and her honourable daughter were kind enough bring my wife Charlotte and I in their barouche box with them. My wife Charlotte is from Hertfordshire and is friends with your new sister. When told of our travel plans, Lady Catherine de Bourgh condescendingly said, ‘Mr. Collins, I would hate for you to travel post with your wife. It is in my power to take you as far as Meryton in the barouche box.’ Now that we are in Hertfordshire, my wife and I will stay at Lucas Lodge, home of my wife’s family. Perhaps you know them from court, Sir William and Lady Lucas?”

“Sorry, I rarely go to London and never to St. James’s.”

“Indeed?” asked Mr. Collins. “Why I am surprised. Your absence from the Court of St. James must grieve the entire ton. Indeed, I am sure that there are many daughters of Dukes who long to see you and who feel that your absence deprives them of their greatest joy and society’s greatest gentleman. In fact, the next time you are in town, you should allow my father to introduce you, Sir William Lucas…”

It began to dawn upon David that he had to devise a method of escape quickly or else his opportunity of speaking with Georgiana would be lost. “Thank you very much Mr. Collins. You are very kind. I will consider your offer next time I am in town. However, I must speak with my aunt right now. I arrived in Meryton shortly before the wedding and did not have the opportunity to speak with her. As you know, Lady Catherine should not be kept waiting for any man on any account. I would hate for her to think that her nephew is not paying her the proper respect that she deserves…”

A look of mortification swept over Mr. Collins features. “My dear Lord Wallingford!” he exclaimed. “Why did you not mention this earlier? By no means would I ever hamper your attempts to speak with the great Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Indeed, many times she has mentioned to me that she has witnessed a lack of respect and decorum in some of the younger generation. I would, by no means, wish her to think that of you! I am very sorry for occupying your time when you so obviously want to carry out such a noble mission as speaking with my great patroness. Although her kindness and beneficence, I am sure, would excuse you of any appearance of impropriety once you relate the circumstances surrounding your delay to her in full...”

“I thank you Mr. Collins. If you will excuse me, good day,” David replied swiftly with a bow. He quickly walked away before Mr. Collins could further apologize for detaining him.

As soon as he emerged from the wedding crowd and extricated himself from Mr. Collins’ grasp, David saw Georgiana and Darcy walking away in the distance with Lady Catherine in pursuit. He watched from afar as Lady Catherine stopped her niece and nephew and after a few words with them, she walked away with a satisfied smile. After she left their company, Darcy and Georgiana rushed to their carriage, entered, and the barouche drove away.

David’s curiosity concerning Lady Catherine’s conversation overcame his natural desire to avoid her presence. He quickly marched up to her and said, “Good morning Lady Catherine. It is good to see you. And how is Anne?” Before she had a chance to reply, he asked, “What were you discussing with my cousins? They seemed to be in a hurry to flee the area.”

“And so they are,” Lady Catherine replied with a smile. “Darcy wishes to limit his sister’s exposure to these people. I have no doubt that he is correct. Can you tell me what has entered the head of that brother of yours? Connecting himself to such a family? He is polluting the name of Fitzwilliam!”

“I am afraid that I can give you little account of his motivations. As you know, Richard and I are not close. He never requests my counsel nor welcomes it when I give it. You would be much better asking Darcy than I.”

“We both know how Darcy feels about such a match. It is a degradation to be related to someone who we would never consider worthy of being an acquaintance! And of course the Colonel would never listen to you. You would never align yourself with such a family! To lower yourself to such a level? To debase yourself in such a manner would be inconceivable to you.”

David forced a tight smile at such inaccurate praise, but said nothing. With every word that she uttered, he became more convinced of two things: one, that it was best that he kept his earlier marriage and subsequent relations a secret, and two, that he felt much more degraded by the likes of Lady Catherine than he ever could by the Warners.

“Well Darcy will show that not everyone in this family forgets his duty. He has authorized me to announce his engagement to Anne at the wedding breakfast.”

“Has he?” gasped David. Anne?! You must be joking! Has he lost his senses accepting Lady Catherine’s demands? He took one look back to where Darcy’s barouche once stood and decided that there were more mysteries in the air than just one. He also knew that he could not discover the nature of Georgiana’s distress nor be of any service to her in Hertfordshire. To Pemberley, therefore, he was to go.

Chapter 27 ~ Family Troubles

Posted on Monday, 28 March 2005

David stood in his bedchamber at Clifton Manor and sighed. It was nearly six months since Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth’s first wedding ceremony and four months since the last time he saw her, yet it seemed like an eternity. And he had no doubt that it would be a long time until he saw her again. Yet her face, so bright and beautiful, was never far from his thoughts. It was four months ago today, since I saw her at Netherfield. How many things have changed since then? he thought. The morning of Col. Fitzwilliam’s second wedding ceremony and after the angry confrontation with his brother in which David told Fitzwilliam that Darcy and Elizabeth loved each other and that Fitzwilliam should not marry her, David saw Georgiana in the hall. She was wearing a gorgeous mint green silk gown that enhanced the flecks of green in her hazel eyes. He doubted that he had ever seen anyone lovelier. He wished he had been able to speak with her longer that day, but it was not to be. His brother had just thrown him out of his bedchamber and out of his life and David was in no humour to speak, certainly not intelligently. So instead of staying in Hertfordshire, he fled the house and her presence to travel to Rosings Park to see if he could correct at least one wrong in the family.

The morning of Colonel Fitzwilliam’s second wedding ceremony to Elizabeth Bennet and before David attempted to stop the wedding, David received an enigmatic express from Lady Catherine. She wanted his assistance with a matter of family honour. As David soon learned upon reaching Kent, Anne had eloped with a stable hand. Lady Catherine first attempted to persuade her daughter to reject her husband and annul her marriage. Upon her ungrateful child’s refusal to do her bidding, Lady Catherine threw the wench from the house with little more than the clothes she was wearing. By the time David arrived, the damage was complete. Anne had fled to parts unknown and Lady Catherine had changed her will leaving him all of the de Bourgh estate. David had first attempted to persuade Lady Catherine to change her mind. When that scenario seemed unlikely, he decided to secretly search for Anne, hoping that he could assist her with his own funds, and his aunt would be none the wiser. However finding Anne was proving to be impossible. David could not even discover her husband’s name. Lady Catherine forbid either her daughter’s or her daughter’s husband’s name from ever being mentioned. Even those who were not her servants feared her enough to never mention the forbidden names and strove to forget they ever knew them.

After months of fruitless activity, David made an excuse to Lady Catherine that he had been from home for so long that he needed to go to London for a couple of weeks to conclude some business, but he would return. Once David left Rosings, he traveled directly to Gretna Greene, hoping that wedding records would reveal Anne’s new name. Unfortunately, Anne did not wed there. Then David went from Scotland to Lincolnshire. He wanted to drop in on his sister, growl at any potential suitors lurking about, and then go home. Clifton Manor had become his sanctuary and given the activities of the past several months, he needed all of the protection and comfort his home provided.

David had heard from acquaintances in Town that Georgiana was staying with the Bingleys and preparing to make her debut in society. He was a little concerned about her debut this season because of the scandals that had recently befallen their family. The ton had their tongues waggling about the Fitzwilliam family. First, Colonel Fitzwilliam left his bride, at the altar no less, claiming that he had not acted honourably and was trying to take advantage of a lady’s decency. Next, Anne de Bourgh eloped with one of her mother’s servants. Then, Lady Catherine further disgraced her by disowning her. And then, rumours circulated that Colonel Fitzwilliam’s cousin engaged himself to Colonel Fitzwilliam’s former fiancée on her wedding day to the Colonel and that Darcy’s union with the pretty nobody was imminent. Some even directed criticism towards his parents, the Earl and Countess of Matlock, because they had supported their son’s engagement to Elizabeth Bennet. Only David and Georgiana seemed above the fray. Gossip spread about how the Viscount stormed out of Hertfordshire before the doomed wedding ceremony and had not been seen since. The masses wrongly assumed that his relations’ actions disgusted the proud man and he escaped to distance himself. For Georgiana’s part, most excused her participation in the debacle because of her age and inexperience. However, in moments when David was honest with himself, he realized that Georgiana’s debut bothered him for another reason. He knew that she could comport herself with dignity, even with malicious gossip swirling about her. What he was truly afraid of was her losing her heart. In his younger days, before his loss, he attended all of the society balls. He remembered how the seductive power of fame and popularity would sweep over the young debutants. And despite the family’s recent misfortune, Georgiana Darcy was still a beautiful, young, intelligent woman, with a large dowry, who descended from an old titled family. He knew that young bucks would line up for a chance to dance with and court the young beauty.

He chuckled when he thought over the length of their relationship. He had always though of her as a little girl, but it was not until the first wedding ceremony between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth that he realized that she had changed. She had grown up. She was also in distress. And David, being David, could not help but step in and attempt to help, even braving her brother’s well-founded dislike.

On the evening of the Netherfield ball, David’s world changed. It was on that evening that his feelings began to alter. Standing out on the balcony with her while attempting to determine what bothered her, he first began to grasp that the one person in the world who knew everything about him, indeed may even know him better than he knew himself, may be the only person he could unreservedly give his heart to again.

After mulling over miserable thoughts of Georgiana falling in love with another, David then turned his unhappy thoughts to his current predicament. He was to return to Rosings Park within the hour. He was hoping that his proximity to Lady Catherine would influence her to be more moderate in her actions, if only to restore the family name by granting Anne her rightful inheritance. However, he knew his aunt too well to hold much hope. Nonetheless, he felt duty bound to try.

Now, as he stood at his window watching his trunks loaded on to his carriage, he felt as if he were alone in the world, without a soul to turn to. Somehow, his thoughts returned to Georgiana, as they frequently did, and he remembered Mrs. Stanley. Her dark hair and eyes accompanied by her perfect smile always cheered his spirits. Georgiana had given him the doll many years earlier to protect him, and he realized that he needed Mrs. Stanley’s protection more than ever. He walked over to his dresser, opened it, took the doll out, straightened her dress, and placed her in the middle of his bed against the pillows. As he looked at the doll sitting serenely on the bed smiling at him, he grinned when he thought of his servants’ reaction to having a doll sit on their master’s bed, but they had also witnessed too many of his eccentricities to question it. David grabbed his coat, walking stick, and hat, bowed to the doll, and said, “Goodbye sweetheart. I’ll see you when I get back,” to the doll before walking out of the bedchamber and out of his house.

“David? Are you coming?” an annoyed Colonel Fitzwilliam called from the doorway of the study.

As David stood by the window of the study of Lord Matlock’s London home, clutching Mrs. Stanley in his arms, he recollected himself. “Sorry,” he mumbled.

“Do you plan to keep your ill wife waiting for you all night?” Fitzwilliam growled. “You know that Georgiana is very weak, in great danger of losing the baby, and you have been incredibly neglectful! Running off to meet people or having visitors drop in on you at all hours of the night is inexcusable. Good God man! Do you not care anything for your wife and child’s health and well being?”

“Yes, of course. I will see her now.” As David and Fitzwilliam walked down the hall and climbed the stairs of the townhouse towards Georgiana’s bedchamber, David could sense that his companion was in a foul mood.

“It is your habit, sir, to play with dolls all night while your sick wife lies in bed worried about you?” Fitzwilliam fumed.

“No, of course not,” came the calm reply.

“And what was that meeting with General Warner?”

David looked at his brother, but said nothing.

“And why did he say he was your brother?”

David continued to climb the stairs in silence.

Fitzwilliam narrowed his eyes, “Have you been unfaithful to your wife?”

“If your interrogation is complete, I am frightfully overdue,” David said blandly.

Fitzwilliam continued to glare at his brother. David’s evasive manner only served to pour salt upon a gaping wound. “What kind of game are you playing?”

“As you have already noted, I am playing with my doll,” he quipped.

As they reached Georgiana’s door, Fitzwilliam grabbed David’s arm and turned him to face him. “You are fortunate that your wife is ill and with child or I would call you out!” he seethed.

David rolled his eyes and shook his head before removing Fitzwilliam’s hand from his arm. “Really Richard, you are too melodramatic for your own good,” he calmly answered before entering Georgiana’s bedchamber.

Shortly after her husband’s return, Georgiana feigned exhaustion so all of her company, except for her husband, would leave her bedchamber. Once the crowd had left, she motioned for him to join her sitting on the bed, reclining against the bed pillows. He removed his shoes, climbed onto the bed, and sat next to her, with his head leaning on her shoulder. Before interrogating him, she heard him release a deep sigh. He answered all of her questions reluctantly, but truthfully. General Warner was in England to stop the wedding the following day between his sister, Sharon, and Sir Michael Sidwell, an impoverished Baronet from Dorchester. The General was very cross with David for supporting the marriage and allowing it to take place. General Warner and David, Sharon’s former guardians, were the trustees to her dowry. Without the approval of one of her two trustees, her dowry of fifty thousand pounds would not be given to Sharon upon her marriage and without her fortune, the penniless Baronet could not afford to marry her.

After withstanding the General’s tirade earlier in the evening, David’s resolve to support the union began to waiver. “What if he is right?” he asked Georgiana. “What if Sir Michael is a fortune hunter? What if all Sir Michael is interested in is raising his family fortunes. General Warner only wants to see his sister happily settled. What if we have been deceived about Sir Michael’s reasons for wanting to marry Sharon? And she is the General’s sister. I am nothing more than an in-law.”

“David!” Georgiana gasped. “Surely you cannot think that Sir Michael is just marrying Sharon for her money. He loves her! I am sure of it. You have seen with your own eyes how tenderly he looks upon her. Do you remember when we accompanied Sharon to the play nine months ago and Sir Michael was there? Even you remarked on how he did nothing but look at her. And remember when he applied to you for her hand in marriage five months ago? You said that you had never seen a man so besotted. That you feared he would faint under the anxiety of asking for her hand. When we had him over for supper the following week, he hardly touched his food, but spent the evening gazing at his fiancée. If you look into your heart, you will see that I am right. Sir Michael is in love, and it is not with your sister’s dowry.”

David sighed. “But Tom is her brother…”

“You have been no less a brother to her! More so, I would say. Can you honestly tell me that you would care for her any more if she were your own flesh and blood?”

David shook his head. “No, I would not.”

Georgiana smiled and nodded. “Well then, you have your answer.”

He shook his head again. “But George, it is Warner money and the Warner estate and I am not a Warner. Perhaps I should leave family squabbles to the family...”

“But your father-in-law left you guardianship over Sharon and trustee over her dowry for a reason. He trusted your judgment! Do not betray that trust now by abandoning your duty. You have served the Warner family well over all of these years. Do not turn your back on what you know is right… And if you withdrew your support now, you would crush her. Even from my window I could see her delight when you gave her our wedding present. When you placed that necklace around her neck, she clasped the pearl choker as if you had given her a royal crown.” She reached down and took her husband’s hand into her own. “This union means the world to Sharon. Do not deny her dearest dream now when it is well within her grasp. Besides, she is a woman of four and twenty. She withstood all of the suitors of her youth and was called a spinster because she was waiting for true love. Now that she has found it, do not make her suffer for it.”

“I do not know…”

“Well it is too late now,” Georgiana huffed. “You signed the papers at the solicitor’s office granting your approval of the marriage. It is beyond your control. Your permission has been granted and the ink is dry.”

David shook his head. “George, despite what most people believe, you know I am one of the wealthiest men in England and control the Warners’ mighty fortune in addition to my own. Believe me, if I sent word right now to Mr. Browne, the Warners’ solicitor, he would open his office, get the document granting permission, and tear it into shreds. Until the wedding ceremony has been completed, nothing is final.”

Georgiana narrowed her eyes. “David Fitzwilliam, you know in your heart what is right. It is time for you to stop doubting yourself and follow through with what you know to be best. I have always thought you the best of men. Do not prove me wrong now.”

David took his head off of Georgiana’s shoulder and turned to face her. He looked deep into her eyes for a moment. “Are you sure? Are you really sure?”

The cold, determined glare of his wife answered his question.

“I suppose you are right,” David sighed. “Sir Michael is not a fortune hunter. And no one knows Sharon better than you. You have become such close friends that if you have no doubt of their attachment, I can have none. It is a love match... It is a pity though. I believe Sharon secretly hoped her brother would change his mind and walk her down the aisle tomorrow. As it stands, there is no chance of that now. In fact, he was so angry this evening, I believe there is little chance of him ever speaking to either Sharon or I again.” Georgiana heard David sigh again before he settled his head back on her shoulder and quietly whispered, “I feel as if I failed her. I failed to make her brother see the light.”

David left the townhouse the next morning just before dawn. Georgiana urged him to leave early so he could assist Sharon in preparing for her wedding. She related how nervous she was as a bride and how her brother’s presence throughout the morning gave her strength. With a few instructions to her husband admonishing him to ensure that the nervous bride eats at least a little gruel before the ceremony, she kissed him goodbye. As she looked out from her bedchamber window and watched him climb into their barouche, she knew he did so with a heavy heart. She wished she could have spoken to him longer and given him a little more encouragement, but time was her enemy. Georgiana had a desperate plan and every second counted.

Chapter 28 ~ The Summons

Posted on Monday, 16 May 2005

The previous evening, Georgiana had resolved to speak to General Warner personally to convince him that he was wrong. She awoke in the middle of the night and snuck out of her bed, careful not to wake her husband, and wrote a letter to the General. Now, as she watched her husband climb into the barouche, she knew that she had not an instant to lose. Thankful that Colonel Fitzwilliam had the habit of all good soldiers and rose early, Georgiana threw on her robe, grabbed the note that she had written from the top drawer of her dresser where she had hidden it the night before, scurried out of her room, rushed down the hall, and knocked on his bedchamber door.

Within a few seconds the door opened, revealing the face of a very confused man. “Georgiana, are you unwell?” Fitzwilliam asked.

Georgiana shook her head. “Richard, I need your help right now.”

Fitzwilliam nervously looked back at his sleeping wife, exited the bedchamber, and quietly closed the door. “What do you need?” he whispered.

“I need for you to deliver this note to General Warner. I want you to insist that he read it immediately. Once he has finished reading the note, I want you to bring him back here to see me,” she replied while offering the note to him.

My Lord! thought Fitzwilliam. What ever could she want with him? Unless she has discovered David’s infidelity… Fitzwilliam pushed the thought out of his mind as he attempted to calmly respond to her request. “I do not know where the General is staying.”

“He is at the Lion’s Gate Inn. It is but three miles from here,” she answered while pushing the note into his hands.

Fitzwilliam looked down at the offending missive with a feeling of dread and horror. “Georgiana, you know little about the army. I cannot order a superior officer to read a note, much less come with me.”

“Tell him it is from Lady Wallingford. He’ll read it.”

“B-b-but what will David say? A stranger calling on you before breakfast? He doesn’t want you to see anyone, let alone some old crusty general.”

Georgiana looked at him crossly. “David is not here. He need never know.”

“Isn’t here? Where is he?” Fitzwilliam gasped.

“He had some errands…”

“At this hour?”

Motivated by a sense of urgency, Georgiana began to grow irritated with him. “Richard, this is important. I need for you to take this note and go to the general now.”

“I do not think this is wise. You should be in bed resting.”

“If you do not do as I ask, I will be forced to dress and travel to the General’s quarters myself.”

The look of resolve on Georgiana’s face convinced him that she was serious. “Very well. I will help you. Give me fifteen minutes to get properly dressed.”

“And Richard, if you do not return with the General within the hour, I will go to the inn myself,” Georgiana warned.

Fitzwilliam frowned and nodded. He immediately set out to have his carriage readied and hastily scribbled out a quick note to his cousin. He gave it to his valet and instructed him to run to the Darcys’ house, pound on the door until someone answered it, and personally place the note in Darcy’s hand. Fitzwilliam would carry out his mission as ordered, but not before ensuring that Darcy knew all of the particulars of that morning’s events.

Georgiana returned to her bedchamber and sat on her bed to calm herself. She sincerely hoped that Fitzwilliam did not notice her shaking hand as shoved the note into his hand. She had always been a shy child and still tended to be easily intimidated. She only began breaking from her shell out of necessity for her brother’s well being and then under the positive influence of his wife. True, she was bold enough with her husband, but he always encouraged that in her. And she stood up to her brother only when his future happiness or hers was in peril. However, now she was to face a stranger, and an intimidating one at that. Her husband never cowered or gave in to anyone in his life, yet his encounter with the General shook him to the core. And yet Georgiana had summoned the same General expressly to confront him with his error. However scared she was, she was even more determined. She knew that her husband’s happiness, his sister’s, and possibly her own, rested on the outcome of the morning’s meeting. Her father’s words, We must do everything we can to help him. I know that he has tried to watch over us, now it is our turn to watch over him. We must look after him and protect him in any way we can, echoed through her head as she called her maid, began to dress for the day, and contemplated what she was about to say.

A little over an hour later, Colonel Fitzwilliam returned with General Warner in tow. He did as requested, pounded on the General’s door at the ungodly hour of six and insisted that he read a letter from Lady Wallingford. Although he had little doubt that the powerful General would have him demoted for the morning’s actions, it was not retribution that he feared. He feared for Georgiana. In the carriage ride back to the townhouse, the atmosphere was tense. The General, much like David, refused to discuss his business but simply replied that it was a matter between he and Lady Wallingford now. However, Fitzwilliam felt that he could not allow the General to meet Georgiana in ignorance; he informed the General of her fragile health.

When Fitzwilliam and General Wallingford arrived and entered the sitting room, Fitzwilliam was relieved to see Darcy waiting. He introduced Darcy to General Warner, and both bowed gravely. Without another word, General Warner sat down in a chair, looking very cross.

Darcy nodded his head to Fitzwilliam and motioned towards the window, away from the General. Fitzwilliam followed. “I just arrived,” Darcy whispered to his cousin. “Any idea what this is all about?”

Fitzwilliam was about to answer when Georgiana entered the room. General Warner rose and bowed to her as she curtseyed. “Thank you General Warner for coming so quickly. As you know, time is of the essence,” she said.

“Indeed it is,” the General replied crisply.

Georgiana walked over and sat in the chair opposite where the General had been sitting. As soon as she sat, he also sat down and faced her. “William, Richard, will you please leave us? I believe that both General Warner and I would feel more comfortable if we could speak freely in private,” she requested.

Surprised, Darcy replied, “But I would not.”

“I know that it is highly improper and I would not request such a thing if it were not of the utmost importance.”

“It is not that which we are concerned about,” answered Fitzwilliam. “You are in fragile health and should not be out of bed.”

Impatient for them to leave, Georgiana responded quietly, but firmly. “I know my own strength, gentlemen, as you do not.”

Darcy looked at Fitzwilliam and scowled. “At least allow me to stay with you,” Darcy said. “I want to be with you in case you need a doctor.”

“I am sure the General if perfectly capable of summoning you in the breakfast room if a doctor is needed.”

“But Georgiana…” Richard began.

“All of this disagreement is doing me a greater harm than anything the General can say,” she said with an irritated look. “Now I am asking you both to leave.”

General Warner, wishing to resolve the stalemate and talk with Georgiana in private, decided to intervene. “Gentlemen, allow me to assure you that I will watch over Lady Wallingford and if she needs assistance, I will summon you.”

Darcy and Fitzwilliam scowled once more, but caved in to Georgiana’s wishes and shortly left the room.

As soon as they left, Georgiana looked down and smoothed her dress to calm herself before looking up at the General. She smiled serenely before beginning, “Please forgive their interference. Fitzwilliam Darcy is my brother and Colonel Fitzwilliam is my cousin. They were both my guardians when I was young and sometimes forget that I have grown.”

“I understand, Lady Wallingford. Please do not distress yourself.” The General shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “I know why you have summoned me Lady Wallingford, but it is of no use,” he said gently.

Georgiana raised an eyebrow. “Oh?”

“I will never give my consent for my sister to marry that fortune hunter,” the General replied with contempt seeping into his voice.

“Whether you give your consent is of little legal significance. Your sister is of age to marry without your consent and only one trustee was needed in order to release her dowry. David signed the paperwork several days ago. It will become final once the minister declares them man and wife.”

“Then why bother me?”

“Because your sister would like for you to attend the ceremony this morning. It is not too late. You can leave directly from here and be there to escort her down the aisle.”

The General grew a bit indignant at the suggestion of attending the wedding. “Lady Wallingford, let me be rightly understood. I have no intention of being coy. No doubt that brother of mine told you of my extreme displeasure at hearing that he is selling my dear sister to a wastrel just so she can gain a title. I suppose that you and your kind believe that people like us, mere children of a tradesman, should treasure a title and a ‘noble name.’ But I can tell you Madame, I have seen battle, I have seen the worst of man, and whether a person has value has nothing to do with whether I have to call him ‘Sir’ or not.”

Georgiana glared at the man in silent fury. All nervousness about facing him had now been replaced with rage. Rage that he would think that her husband would ever approve of any inducement to marry other than true love.

The General, misunderstanding Georgiana’s silence, continued. “Perhaps there is some compromise that we can reach,” he said softly. “Your husband will listen to you. You can stop this wedding.”

“And what can I expect in return?” she asked crisply.

“David mentioned something about a Lieutenant Wick-- something.”

“Lieutenant Wickham.”

“Yes, that’s the one. David would not explain the particulars, but he said that this Lieutenant was causing him trouble.” General Warner leaned towards Georgiana and lowered his voice. “I do not know if you are aware of this, but I am very powerful and influential in the Army. I can insure that the Lieutenant never bothers David again.”

Georgiana clinched her teeth and willed herself to remain calm. “All this in exchange for my assistance?”

“To protect my sister from a fortune hunter, I will do anything.”

“And to protect your sister’s future, I will sacrifice anything, even my reputation,” she responded firmly.

General Warner furrowed his brow and looked at her in a confused manner. “I do not understand.”

“It is not David that Lieutenant Wickham is threatening, it is me.”

The General started and his eyes widened at this revelation. “I do not understand.”

“George Wickham is blackmailing me… He is the son of my late father’s steward. He was reared on the Pemberley estate and my father supported him through his schooling and Cambridge. When he finished school, my father hoped that Lieutenant Wickham would become an honourable man and take up a noble profession, such as one in the church. However, the Lieutenant was a gamester and a libertine. After my father died, he did not want the living provided in my father’s will, so instead my brother gave him three thousand pounds. However, money and Mr. Wickham soon parted ways. Later, when a living became available that was within my brother’s power to give him, my brother refused to provide him the living. To exact his revenge, he later persuaded me that I was in love with him and I consented to an elopement when I was fifteen years old. I had a large dowry, which no doubt would have been to his liking. In addition, the black mark I would have inflicted on my family name while under my brother’s guardianship would have pained my brother to the core. However, before the intended day, I told my brother of our plans and he turned Lieutenant Wickham out of my life and covered up the scandal.”

The General sank back in his chair deep in thought. “How old was Lieutenant Wickham when he persuaded you that you were in love with him?” he asked softly.

“He is eleven years my senior.”

“Then he was certainly old enough to understand the magnitude of his actions and he was not in love with you.”

“I doubt George Wickham has ever loved anyone but himself.”

“And he is threatening to make this story public now that you are with child?”

Georgiana sighed. “It is worse. I wrote him two letters when I was ‘in love’ with him. At the time, he told me that he destroyed them as soon as he read them. However, that was another of his lies. He has threatened to show the letters to anyone and everyone as well as tell them our tale unless I ‘give him a loan.’ I have no doubt that his tale will also include many lies and exaggerations about me. He aims to make me buy his silence. But I know that once I begin to give him money, he will never stop. I will be haunted by him for the rest of my life.”

The General furrowed his brow. “You are of course aware that if he tells his lies, there are some who would gleefully spread the story for him. You, your husband, and even your unborn baby will be tainted by your indiscretions, both real and imagined.”

Georgiana nodded.

“Are you also aware that I can put a stop to him? I have the power to make him go away. I can protect your name. As a powerful Army general, I can put any soldier under my thumb. I can personally see to it that he never says one word against you. Your name would be untouched. Your family would not be disgraced.”

“Yes, I am aware of your position.”

The General looked at her quizzically. Bewildered, he asked softly, “Knowing all that I can do for you, you still refuse to help me?”

Georgiana sat silently for a full minute attempting to control her emotions before she was in command of them enough to speak. “I will never consent to such a despicable scheme! I will not ruin Sharon’s happiness to save my own neck!” She glared at him menacingly for a moment before continuing. “As far as David ‘selling’ your sister for the sake of a title, well that is complete rot and you know it! Have you ever once wondered why David insists that you and all of the family call him by his Christian name and not by his title or at least ‘Wallingford’ as is his right? Any other Viscount would.”

The General frowned. “No, I never considered…”

“You never considered how improper it is for David to be addressed by his Christian name, did you? The reason why none of his relations call him ‘Wallingford’ is that he detests it. Purely by the luck of birth and not any ability on his part, he received the ‘privilege’ of his name. His title has been the bane of his existence. At a young age, it forced him to accept responsibilities and obligations that he never wanted. He was set apart to perform deeds and actions because of his obligations. Yes, he carries on his obligations and duties, but that does not mean that he values them. He never wanted to be a Viscount. He does not want to be an Earl. To have people chase after him or despise him because of his position in society? But he will be an Earl and conduct himself with honour because he must… And you accuse him of marrying off your sister so she can be a Lady? Nothing is more laughable. I only wonder if you know David at all. He was much more likely to oppose the suit, not support it, because Sir Michael is a baronet.”

The General sat quietly, attempting to absorb all that had been said. He was looking for a flaw to her argument, but could not find one. “Perhaps it is my sister who is enamoured of the title,” he suggested.

“You are wrong. She loves him. You of all people should know that she would never sell her future happiness for something that your family has regarded so cheaply.”

“Perhaps he does not love her. Perhaps he only wants to marry for money. I understand that his family finances are near collapse.”

Georgiana narrowed her eyes and straightened her back. “Then perhaps you have heard how the family finances were depleted?” The General shook his head. “Sir Michael’s family is an honourable family whom my family has known for generations. They have always been financially successful.”

“Then what happened?” the General asked.

“Sir Michael is an only child, the product of a love match between Sir Reginald and Miss Westfield of Sussex. Miss Westfield was the fourth child of a gentleman of small means. Nonetheless, Sir Reginald saw her and was besotted. Even though she was just a country girl with no dowry to speak of, he courted her and soon gained permission to wed. Just six months after the marriage, they learned that Lady Sidwell was with child. However, Lady Sidwell was not strong. Seven months later, she gave birth to her son Michael. She lingered on after the child’s birth for a few days, but soon expired. Sir Reginald was consumed with grief. He left the child that cost him his beloved wife in the care of his sister and her husband, and then Sir Reginald began to drink, heavily. Once he was in this vulnerable position, villains took advantage of him by luring him to the gaming tables.”

“Why did his friends of family not try to stop him?”

“They tired, but it was of no use,” Georgiana replied. “Sir Reginald lost his will to live and could not amend his ways. The Sidwell family had a considerable fortune and it took some time for him to gamble and drink it away, but he did. Once he finished with his fortune, he pledged his debts against his son’s inheritance that Sir Michael was to receive from other relatives upon reaching the age of twenty-one. Sir Reginald had no legal right to his son’s inheritance, but it did not stop him. It wasn’t until Sir Michael’s aunt and uncle died that Sir Michael realized how precarious his financial position was. Although he knew that his father had spent all of the family money, he never dreamed that his father had also spent his inheritance. Even though they were gaming debts acquired under suspicious circumstances and Sir Michael was under no legal obligation to pay them, he could not bear the thought of his father owing lenders money or going to debtor’s prison. Instead, as soon as he came into his inheritance, he spent all of it to clear his father from debt. Shortly thereafter, his father died, leaving Sir Michael with the baronetcy, but without a pound to his name.”

General Warner looked at Georgiana thoughtfully. “It sounds as if weakness runs in the family. A weak character is hardly a noble trait that I want my sister to align herself with.”

Astonished, Georgiana exclaimed, “Are you saying that it was weak of Sir Michael to pay for the debts of his father, whom he barely knew, and sacrifice his own happiness and comfort to do it?”

“No, but the father obviously had a weak and faulty character. A character flaw, I might add, that might be inherited by the son.”

Georgiana sized up her opponent for a moment. “Do you believe that David has a weak character or faulty morals?”

The General was confused by this response. “Of course not. My brother is one of the best of men. I know of no one who is as noble or upstanding.”

“You surprise me General Warner with your assessment,” Georgiana relied smoothly. “Surely you remember what happened to David after your sister’s death? He was a ruined man, drank to excess, and engaged in behaviour that he abhors. I would have assumed that you would hold his weakness against him.”

“No, of course not. T-t-that was different.”

“How?” Georgiana countered. “You did not see him directly after he returned to England as I did, so let me assure you that he was a broken man. Nothing like who he is now. He blamed himself for his wife’s death and was determined to wallow in grief and follow her to the grave. It is only through my father’s actions and yours that he began to see Susan’s death in a more rational light. However, without guidance, David may have ended up like Sir Reginald and drank himself into oblivion.”

“But David would have never indebted himself or his family.”

“Perhaps, perhaps not. The effect of grief and alcohol can change a man.”

The General looked thoughtful and remorseful at Georgiana’s statement.

“Besides, it is more than Sir Michael’s family history that gives me an interest in their marriage.”

The General raised an eyebrow. “Oh?”

“Did David ever write to you about our courtship?”

He shook his head.

“David asked my brother, whom you just met, for permission to marry me at least twice a month for six months. My brother refused every request except for the last. Do you know why permission was refused?”

“No, please enlighten me.”

“Because my brother did not believe David was good enough for me. In fact, he is still suspicious of him.”

General Warner visibly started. “Forgive me for being impertinent and mentioning this Lady Wallingford, but given your current predicament, I would have thought that the objection would have come from another corner entirely.”

Georgiana nodded. “Your opinion of my husband is the same as my own. He is the best of men. I do not deserve him. However, not everyone sees his true character and judges him solely on circumstantial evidence.” She paused a moment to allow her statement to sink in. “And now that we are discussing characters, we should discuss yours.”

“Mine Lady Wallingford?”

“You entered my home today with a plan to blackmail me. Yes, I certainly believe that I can call your character into question.”

The General shook his head vigorously. “No, no! You miss understood me. I did not intend to blackmail you.”

“Oh really?” she asked indignantly. “You offered your services to eliminate my problem if I did your bidding, otherwise you would allow George Wickham to slander my name and by extension, your brother’s. If anyone’s behaviour should be called into question, it is yours! Your actions hardly portray you as a good and decent gentleman, no matter what my husband believes of you. Perhaps someday you will do his faith in you more justice than you do it now.”

“Please Lady Wallingford. You have misunderstood me,” he sputtered quickly. “I am only surprised that knowing how I can help you and your family, you are willing to risk my disapproval to support my sister’s wedding. I never said that if you do not help me, I will stand by and allow Lieutenant Wickham to spread his lies.”

“General Warner, I only know of one way to act, and that is to stand up for what is right and just. It would be wrong of me to oppose your sister’s marriage for personal gain. Now that I have told you my thoughts, I want to remind you that your sister is to be wed two hours from now at St. John’s church in the Kensington district. My husband has been a greater friend and brother to her than you have. He has looked after her every need, protected her from unscrupulous influences, and helped guide her actions. Nonetheless, she would like for you to be at the wedding. Ever since your father has died, she has dreamed of having you walk her down the aisle. It still is not too late.”

General Warner furrowed his brow. “I do not know…” he responded softly.

“You once told David that missing your sister Susan’s wedding was one of the greatest regrets of your life. Do not make that same mistake twice.”

The General looked at the floor, deep in thought.

“Well I have said all that I need to say,” Georgiana declared. “If you are wise, you will leave directly for the church and beg your sister’s forgiveness.”

“Lady Wallingford, about Lieutenant Wickham…”

“He is of little matter to me,” she snapped. “My only concern is for your sister. Good day,” she said coldly as she rose from her seat.

He quickly stood and Georgiana curtsied before she stormed out of the room, marched up the stairs, entered her bedchamber, and closed the door. Once she reached her bed, she collapsed under the agitation of the moment. She heard the front door to the townhouse close, knowing it must be him leaving. Her raw emotion came out, expressed as tears. Dear Lord, please let him think rightly, she thought.

Continued in Next Section