Jump to new as of January 25, 1999
Jump to new as of January 31, 1999
Jump to new as of February 6, 1999
Chapter 1
"Miss Darcy, Miss Darcy!"
"Coming."
"Mrs. Darcy wishes to speak with you."
"Thank you."
Elizabeth has lived at Pemberley for nearly a year and she had seemed to make things a little more interesting. At least to Georgiana Darcy, our heroine for this story. Georgiana adored her-for she had no older sister or mother of her own, and Aunt Catherine de Bourgh was not her idea of a "motherly figure".
"Oh! Georgiana," exclaimed Elizabeth Darcy. "Please, could I have your advice?"
"Yes, I guess so."
"Well, here is my dilemma: I don't know what gown to wear tonight. Should I wear the long sleeve gown, or the short sleeve one?
"The short sleeve gown does look pretty, but the long sleeve gown would prob-wait, you'll be inside, so I think the short sleeve gown would be better," declared Georgiana with a pleased look on her face.
"Pray, what are you planning to wear to the theatre?"
"I believe I will wear a long sleeve cream gown with satin ribbon on it."
"It sounds very lovely. Is it new?"
"Yes, I got it last week, with Kitty."
"I am so excited to see my aunt and Uncle again, I haven't seen them since-" Elizabeth was interrupted with Georgiana exclaiming that she was going to be late.
"Oh my! Look at the time! I haven't got my gown on, my hair done, my...," her voice trailed off as she ran out of the room.
Chapter 2
The Darcys' got into the carriage and were just overjoyed at the fact that they were to go to London (on the way they were to stop in Kent, and only really Elizabeth was pleased about this detour, she was to see Charlotte).
Georgiana had heard much about the Collinses, and was excited to see if they lived up to what Elizabeth said.
As they drew nearer and nearer to Rosings, everyone was a little anxious. Mr. Darcy was worried about Lady Catherine's behavior toward Elizabeth, Elizabeth was worried also about Lady Catherine, and Georgiana was worried because for one, the others looked worried and also she was a little afraid of her aunt.
"Ah, Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, Miss Darcy, we are overjoyed at the fact that you decided to pay us a visit," said Lady Catherine when they reached Rosings. "Isn't that right Mrs. Jennings?"
"We are-"
"I just think it wonderful when families take vacations together."
"Thank you, Lady Catherine," responded Mrs. Darcy.
Lady Catherine was doing her best to be civil, for Georgiana's sake.
"Miss Ben- excuse me, Mrs. Darcy," and when those two words left Lady Catherine's mouth, she forced a smile, but her eyes showed nothing to be happy about.
"It has been over a year since you have paid us visit. You must be anxious to see Mrs. Collins. They will be dining with us you know this evening."
"Yes, I am very happy to see her," remarked Mrs. Darcy.
"And me too," cried Georgiana, "I shall be very happy to make her acquaintance."
And so the evening wore on, with the Collinses and Darcys saying very little and Lady Catherine saying the most. In fact, if you had been there, it would have seemed that Lady Catherine was holding a conversation with herself.
Chapter 3
Yes, Anne was there, but she was busy gawking at Mr. Darcy!!
And so the evening passed on. At around nine-o-clock, the Collinses left and the next day morning the Darcys' left.
"Oh! Lizzy," cried Mrs. Gardiner, "we are so happy you came!"
"Thank you aunt. Were happy to be here also."
"And is this the famous Miss Darcy?" asked Mr. Gardiner.
"Yes, this is my sister, Georgiana Darcy. Georgiana this is Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner," said Mr. Darcy.
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance," said Georgiana.
"The pleasure is all mine," replied Mr. Gardiner.
"Mr. Darcy, how long was your journey?"
"A few hours at least, Mrs. Gardiner."
"Shall we go inside?"
"Yes, uncle, that would be nice."
Their stay only lasted until the following day, for they needed to go to Hertfordshire to help the Bingley's with their move to York.
Chapter 4
"Lizzy?"
"Yes?"
"I was thinking."
"About what Georgiana?"
"Well, when we are in Hertfordshire, is there going to be a ball?"
"Well, I don't know."
"Oh, because I was wondering if..."
"If what?"
"If I could..."
"Go to the ball?" Elizabeth finished for her.
"Yes."
"Well, we'll have to see. I bet lazy over there wouldn't mind."
"Lazy? Oh, my brother!"
"What?" asked Mr. Darcy as he woke from his deep slumber.
The two ladies giggled and Mr. Darcy looked upset that they woke him from his "beauty" sleep.
"Lizzy!! Oh I haven't seen you for so long, there is so much to tell you. Well as you know almost all of our good china has gone and...," Jane's voice disappeared as they walked into the house.
"Well Darcy, while our wives are busy conversing about the world's gossip, what about a game of billiards?"
"Sure thing. Lets go."
And so Georgia was left outside alone.
"Uh, miss, where would you like the trunks to be put?"
"Oh I am not sure. Maybe in the parlor, no, maybe in the, no-"
"Miss I have to know. I am going on break in 10 minutes. Unless you would rather them get soaked through," snapped the servant, for he was to meet somebody in the Merytown pub and he didn't want to get soaked through in the rain that just started.
"Just in the hall would be fine."
"Very good."
And so Georgiana was now left in the rain all by herself for all of the servants were now gone. But, her spirits were not that down, for a visit with Kitty Bennet just might cheer her up.
"I am awfully sorry dear, but Miss Catherine has just gone into town."
"Oh, that's a shame."
"I am sure that she will be back within an hour, if you would like to wait, Miss Darcy."
"No, that is all right. When she comes back though, would you please tell her that I called?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Thank you."
"Georgiana! GEORGIANA!!! Where are you? Georgiana?" oh please, don't say that I lost her. "GEORGIANA!!!"
"Kate, have you found Georgiana yet?" asked Elizabeth.
"No, ma'am, I'm afraid not."
"I hope nothing dreadful has happened to her. That would be such a... a... a... a dreadful thing. Even though this town needs something exciting to gossip about," said Caroline Bingley while her sister Mrs. Hurst agreed silently with a nod of the head.
"Caroline, I can't believe you just said that. How insensitive can you be?" cried Charles.
"Oh, I was just joking. Georgiana is my friend." I wish something dreadful something would happen to Eliza...
"Oh, I'm sure nothing happened to her. Maybe she went to call on an acquaintance."
"Yes Jane, let's hope for the best," sighed Charles.
"Excuse me miss, you look like your lost."
"Yes, I am. Do you know the way to Netherfield?" asked Georgiana to a tall man who was dressed in beggar's clothes.
"Netherfield? Well you will need to go down this lane, as a matter of fact, may I escort you with my umbrella so you don't get wet?"
"Yes, that would be nice."
They walked down the lane and talked about different things.
"Well, where are you from?"
"I am from Derbyshire. Are you from this part of the country?"
"Originally, yes, but I live in London. I am visiting my mother here."
"What part of London?" and as soon as those words left her mouth, she realized what she said and looked down at the ground embarrassed.
"Probably not your part."
There was a short silence and then the young man said:
"Broadwick St."
"Oh. That's near-"
"It's in Soho."
After that Georgiana was so embarrassed that she just looked at the ground. She saw a lot of shoes that needed repairing. She wasn't quite sure where Broadwick St. or Soho were but she was pretty sure that that wasn't a part of town that her brother would allow her to go to.
"Forgive me miss, but I just remembered, I haven't asked your name."
"Georgiana Darcy. And may I ask what yours is?"
"Clark. James Clark."
After that they walked in silence, with one of them warning the other about a puddle until they reached Netherfield.
"Well Mr. Clark, it looks as if you have escorted me safely through the rain to Netherfield."
"Indeed I have. Well, Miss Darcy, it has been a pleasure. Good day."
"Thank you."
He kissed her hand and then he turned around and started walking back down the lane. Georgiana hoped that she would see more of Mr. James Clark. Then she remembered that she was standing in the rain and she quickly ran inside.
Chapter 5
"Georgiana! Good heavens where have you been?" was the remark of most of the people when she entered the house.
"I was out walking."
"Georgiana, why did you go outside? It's raining," said her brother Mr. Darcy firmly.
"Fitzwilliam, I went to go call on Kitty."
Sounds like someone else who walked the three miles. She also looks it! thought Caroline.
"Georgiana, why didn't you at least take the carriage?" asked Mrs. Hurst, clearly disgusted along with Caroline with her behavior.
"Well, it didn't seem that anyone cared. Everybody just forgot about me when we got here. I was left outside with the servant lecturing me about how I should know where the trunks are to be put," was her catty remark and with that she turned around and ran upstairs. Everybody was left in shock. They never heard Georgiana say anything about it. Caroline yes, but Georgiana? Never. Maybe it was the country pollutants getting to her head were a few thoughts of the party.
Why do they do this to me? I hate being left outside. At least Lizzy tries to include me, but she isn't very good at it. Now, I shouldn't start feeling sorry for myself. At least I have friends in London. London. Maybe a little vacation from these people is what I need. Maybe Colonel Fitzwilliam would be willing to have a little house guest...
"Georgiana. May I come in?"
"Yes Caroline."
As Caroline walked in the room, she was doing a very bad job at her facial expressions. Trying to look sad, but that didn't fool Georgiana.
"Well, I was thinking. I think that people down there are acting completely insensitively by not coming up here with you."
(Knock, Knock)
"Who is it?"
"Jane and Lizzy"
Caroline gave the door a long hard glare before she turned around and smiled sweetly at Georgiana.
"Well, I was thinking Georgiana, that I feel really bad for leaving you outside." said Jane. And Lizzy said, "And I want you to know that I am not angry at you for walking to Longbourn. It reminds me of something I did once..."
After that, Georgiana was back to her usual self, but something was still bothering her. She just had to send a letter to Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Part 5
Now let's see. Where is my paper? Where is my pen? Ah, here they are. Oh! I'm out of ink. Maybe Jane has some.
"Jane?"
"Yes dear?"
"Do you have any ink for my pen?"
"Why yes Georgiana, I do. Right here."
"Thank you."
Georgiana wanted to visit London, but she didn't know exactly how to ask her cousin. She didn't want to seem rude in asking him to have her.
"Mr. Darcy, the post just come, and there are two letters for you."
"Thank you Karrie."
One letter was business and the other one was from Colonel Fitzwilliam. Mr. Darcy decided to read the Colonel's first. It was to this effect-
Darcy,I am completely in shock. There has been an accident involving my father. I am afraid of being to blunt, but I must write fast. The physician says that he does not seem to be in very good condition. Please come as soon as you can, we don't know how long it will be. I must leave now, but please bring Georgiana, my father would like to see his niece.
Yours,
R. Fitzwilliam
"Georgiana! Where are you?"
"I'm here Fitzwilliam, what happened?"
"There has bee an accident. Colonel Fitzwilliam asks us to come immediately."
"Oh my! An accident involving who?"
"Lord Matlock."
"I shall go and get my things. Is Lizzy coming?"
"I think it would be better if she stays here."
"Yes, oh! I hope he is all right."
"Shall we leave within a half an hour?"
"Yes, that would be good."
Georgiana's mind was racing. What happened? Will he be all right? Was it a carriage accident?
She could not think straight. All she could think about was her uncle. She stumbled up the stairs and got her things together.
When they reached the house, it was all quiet. They suddenly knew what happened. They heard a woman crying upstairs and they quickly ran up the main stairwell. There outside a door, was Lady Matlock crying with Fitzwilliam embracing her. Mr. Darcy and Georgiana ran up and embraced them too.
Chapter 6
A couple of days after the funeral, Fitzwilliam invited Georgiana to come to London with him. Mr. Darcy decided that that would be good, and so it was settled. Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam were to go to London and Mr. Darcy would to go to Pemberley and wait for the Bingley's and Elizabeth.
Shortly after Georgiana arrived in London, she decided to call on her two favorite friends. Isabelle Northburry and Marrianne Kingsley.
"Isabelle! Marrianne! I am so glad I found you at the park! I was going to walk to your houses, but here you are!" cried Georgiana.
"Oh! Georgiana. I am so happy you came to London. It seems an age since I last saw you. How is Hertfordshire? How about Derbyshire, any other "Shires" I forgot?"
"Oh forget that Isabelle! We have something even more important to tell you."
"Well, what is it Marrianne?"
"Do you remember Mr. Kates?"
"And Sally Dormant?"
"Yes, I do what happened?"
"They are engaged!!!" cried Isabelle and Marrianne together.
"Engaged? How? When did it happen? He can't be marrying that witch!" Georgiana got very feisty when she was around these two girls. Maybe that was why she liked them so much.
"Yes he is, and wouldn't you know that Marrianne cried her eyes out two days straight, and he didn't even visit her?" said Isabelle.
"What a wretched man! How could he do that to you Marrianne?" asked Georgiana.
"I was planning on stopping our engagements any way. He wasn't my type."
Yes Marrianne, that's why you cried for two days straight! mused Georgiana.
"Well, I don't care for him any more at all. He isn't worth my concern," declared Isabelle.
"Georgiana, would you care to join us for tea?" asked Marrianne.
"All right. That way I can tell you of all the gossip from the country."
When the three girls were seated at the table, Georgiana began to tell them of the mystery man of who she saw in Hertfordshire.
"He was wonderful," said Georgiana.
"Too bad he isn't a gentleman," said Marrianne.
"Too bad he is a beggar!" cried Isabella.
"Even if you really liked him, you could never marry him, you wouldn't even elope. I know you too well Georgiana you would never elope with anybody. Oh! yes, more sugar, Trudy."
Georgiana looked down into her tea. She remembered the whole Wickham fiasco. Her friends didn't know her that well.
"Well, Georgiana, I hope to see you at the ball that Mr. and Mrs. Olivian will hold. I want to introduce you to someone."
"Yes, he is just wonderful," agreed Marrianne. "Would you like me to send for you in my carriage. For I thought that Colonel Fitzwilliam would be using the carriage to go to the barracks."
"No, thank you, I believe that Richard-uh Colonel Fitzwilliam will be coming to."
"Good bye Georgiana, we'll see you on Friday then," called Marrianne."
"Good bye!" called Isabelle in response.
"Good bye! It was wonderful to see you both. Yes, we will meet again on Friday."
She started walking in the opposite way when it started to rain. It was a long way to Richard's house and she decided to step into one of the shops that lined the street.
"Why Miss Georgiana! How good of you to come today," said the storekeeper, Mrs. Jones.
"Yes, I was in need of a new hat."
"Well, I have just the thing. Here it is. A brand new design straight from Paris. There is nothing like it."
The storekeeper took the hat off the shelve and presented it to Georgiana.
"No, there certainly isn't. I can honestly say I have never seen anything like that."
It was a brown hat with red and blue ribbon coming off the side of it. It also had blue and red feathers on it. Not to mention the numerous of black bows and the black lace coming off the sides.
"Isn't it exquisite?"
"Well, I am not sure if it would go with my gown. Maybe something a little more traditional?"
"Well, Georgiana, perhaps it is a bit much. I have a lovely hat here. Very traditional yet stylish."
"Yes, this is perfect. I believe I shall take it."
When Georgiana stepped outside after the rain stopped, she nearly fell over. There walking across the street was no one but that mystery man. James Clark!
"Mr. Clark!" cried Georgiana! "What a shock it is to see you here! In such a big town!"
It took a moment to recognise her, but when he did, a great smile appeared on his face. He ran the rest of the street to her, and they started talking.
Georgiana hadn't focused on his clothing, but when she did see it, she was shocked. He was dressed in gentleman's clothing, clearly extremely expensive, and very fashionable. Mr. Clark had been able to see her surprise and offered her a reasonable explanation:
"Well, you must be surprised of my attire. When you saw me that day in Hertfordshire, I had been undercover. I had wanted to see what a day as a beggar would be like. My father is actually the Earl of ______________ and I am from Stafford."
Georgiana, was a little weary of this explanation, but soon believed it when he told her of the slums that the poor souls live in.
"We must do more for everybody in this city. I wrote to the mayor of London and he agreed that conditions should be improved."
"Was it difficult to be a beggar?"
"Extremely. When we first met in Hertfordshire, I had been living with a family in London, who were keen on my plan, and wanted me to go to Merrytown to see how conditions there were."
"How were they?"
"They were not that bad, not good you understand, but not that bad."
They talked of this subject until they reached Colonel Fitzwilliam's house.
"And Mr. Clark, shall I see you at the ball on Friday?"
"I believe you will. May I introduce you to my sister at the ball?"
"Yes, that would be nice."
"I heard that practically the whole town will be at this ball!"
"Are you serious, Mr. Clark?"
"Well, all of society."
"Oh, well yes."
"I wonder how they will fit everybody there."
"Have you not seen the ball room at their house?" asked Georgiana.
"No, I haven't."
"It is huge. In fact, they have two rooms, that they will use."
"Ah. I see now. Well, until Friday then."
"Yes. Until Friday. Good bye."
"Good bye."
When Georgiana was inside, she was extremely happy. Well that will show Marrianne. I wonder what they will think of Mr. Clark... thought Georgiana.
Chapter 7
After Georgiana left, her two friends were engaged in some gossip.
"Marianne, do you really think that Georgiana met a beggar on the street?"
"I don't think so, you know how those Darcy's tend to exaggerate the truth."
"They do?"
Marianne shot Isabelle a "don't contradict me, I'm better and smarter than you" type of glance. Marianne seemed to be rather arrogant at some times, and she always seemed to know, by some miraculous gift, what was best for people. And believe me, it was best not to challenge Marianne Kingsley.
"Yes they do. Do you remember when, oh, that was someone else, um, well, what about that time, Oh! Isabelle! Sometimes you just aggravate me! Asking me all these questions! Do I have to defend everything I say. Can't you just believe me for once?"
Marianne had another gift of changing the direction of criticism. When she was at fault, some how, maybe by all of great intelligence, she made others feel bad about what they had said.
"I'm sorry Marianne, I shouldn't have asked. I really should take your feelings in consideration."
"Thank you Isabelle, that made me feel a little better. Now, as I was saying, I think that we really need to introduce her into London's society more."
"Well, her cousin is Colonel Fitzwilliam, who knows almost everybody in this city, I hardly think..."
Marianne shot her another one of her famous glances.
"Well, maybe your right," said Isabelle in a weak voice, "she doesn't know very many- we should introduce her to eligible young men."
"Exactly my point, Isabelle. I met a dashing young man the other day, and what do you think? He is going to be at Mr. and Mrs. Olivian's ball! I will introduce her to him."
"What is his name?"
"Clark"
"I have herd of him, isn't he from France?"
"I dare say 'Clark' is hardly French."
"Oh, well maybe your right."
"Yes, I will introduce her to him at the ball on Friday."
Chapter 8
It was finally the day of the ball, and everybody was excited.
When things got settled down at the ball, Marianne, Isabelle, and Georgiana found each other.
"Georgiana, I have good news and bad news for you. I'll tell you the bad news first."
"All right."
"Well, Isabelle and I wanted to introduce you to a man, a Mr. Clark, I do believe you know him, though don't you? That's what he said, but he had to leave early for some business. So I decided to introduce you to someone else. He is only in town a short time though."
"Are you not wild to know who it is?" asked Isabelle.
"Oh! yes I am. Pray, tell me who it is know."
"I'm sorry, it's a secret," said Marianne, "but if you close you eyes, Isabelle will fetch him. Go get him Isabelle."
While Isabelle was gone, Georgiana pleaded with Marianne to tell her who it was, but Marianne would not reveal the secret. Finally, Isabelle came back with the man, and he spoke to Georgiana.
"Hello Miss Darcy. Fancy me seeing you in town. I was sure that you would be in Derbyshire with Darcy."
Georgiana opened her eyes, and let out a gasp, and ran outside.
"I wonder what it was that upset her."
"I don't know Miss Kingsley, I don't know," replied Mr. Whickam.
Georgiana didn't know how long she stood outside, looking at the stars, her mind was full of every detail that happened three years ago. She wondered what Wick thought of her. If he really was after her money. She knew she had to be very careful when it came to trusting people.
Chapter 9
"Well, Mr. Wick, do you know Miss Darcy?"
"Yes Miss Northburry, we met many times."
"I wonder what scared her?"
"I really don't know Miss Kingsley. But if you excuse me, I believe I will go check on her outside. I think I will get some air, and ask her what happened. Maybe you two can guess what happened.
While the two of them were pondering this, a women's shrill scream was heard outside. Many people ran outside and there was a woman lying on the ground, Miss Norton, was dead. She must have died very quickly, for her scream was heard seconds ago. The whole ball was in confusion, women fainting, men calling the police, everybody scared.
A week later, the police still had no clues to this crime, and they didn't even know what she died of. The woman had no marks of violence on her, and her blood tested normal.
"Richard, what do you think Miss Norton died of?"
"Poison. I believe she was poisoned."
"Then why did she scream?" Georgiana's question was very true, and that was why the police were puzzled.
"Georgiana, did you see anything or anyone while you were outside?"
"No, but I was looking at the stars. I didn't hear anything out of the ordinary, except for the scream."
"Well, maybe you shouldn't go out at night anymore. You don't know what can happen. I will bring the news home every day so we can read more about what the police are doing about it."
The weeks passed on, and everything seemed to be back to normal again. Until one early morning. It was in the daily news paper and it was to this effect:
This morning, another murder was committed. We still remember the beautiful Miss Norton, whose life came to an end, two weeks ago. This morning, at 6:30 a.m. all was quiet in the city's south east side. Until a women's high shrill was herd, and the body of Mrs. Julian, was found in the alley adjacent to her house. She had no marks of violence on her. A short light-haired man and a tall dark-haired women were seen walking calmly from the alley. If you know any information, please contact the police.
"Do you think the murders can be related, Richard?"
"I do. I think it would be better if you stayed at home all the time now, unless you are with me."
"Oh, I guess that would be best. Richard, I am scared. What can be coming of this city?"
"We have a dangerous person on the loose. We must be vary careful."
Chapter 10
"Monsieur, do we still have the spies in Austria?" asked an adviser.
"Yes, they should still be there. Monsieur Bonaparte wishes to take on Austria," replied another adviser.
"What about England?"
"Well, I am not sure. He didn't tell me, well, maybe we should just leave them there, if there are any, for the moment."
"Couldn't they be killed? Then we wouldn't be able to use them in another country."
"I seem to remember one, a Cl-Cl- something. I don't remember the rest, only the first sound in his name. I believe he was a trusted spy to this country. Maybe we should send for him, or should we let him stay?"
"Well, we'll just let him stay in England. If he killed anybody, or got any information, he can always report back to France."
"Good point. Well, what about this person, Calrent? He is a spy, but he is in Russia. I do not think that is who I was thinking of though."
"No, oh well. It doesn't matter. What's one spy?"
"Yes, but if he is captured by the English, then England might start a war with us."
"Why would they do that?"
"You know how hot-headed those English are. I'm not surprised if America invades us. Those traitors! How could they trade with Britain, even though we helped them out in their war!"
"They do come from England, so I guess that's just a British trait that us Frenchmen are lucky to not have."
"Well said monsieur, well said."
The two advisers talked on, abused England and America, and decided which spies should be sent back to France.
One day, while Georgiana was at the store with Isabelle, she saw Mr. Clark. He seemed to be hurrying along, maybe even running from someone or something.
"Mr. Clark, why are you walking so briskly?" asked Isabelle.
"I wanted to catch the coach, mine is in repair. Oh no! It just left. Well I guess I can walk slower now, can't I?" laughed Mr. Clark.
"Yes! I believe you can," giggled Georgiana. "Pray, what do you think of these horrid crimes that are happening, Mr. Clark?"
"I think they are just wretched. I wasn't able to stay very long at the ball, I am sorry to have missed you, Miss Darcy, but I had business. What a person would kill women. Not to mention Austrian women!"
"How did you know they were Austrian, Mr. Clark, it didn't say in the papers," asked Isabelle.
"On the contrary, for I read the British Post. You read the London News, don't you?"
"Why yes, but I wouldn't have thought that-"
"Miss Darcy do you enjoy the theatre?"
"Why yes, very much."
The two girls were very surprised that he changed the subject so quickly. What was he hiding? Did he not want them to think to deeply into it? Or was he just appalled at it that he did not want to think about it.
Later that day, Colonel Fitzwilliam asked Georgiana if she would like to go to the theatre.
"Are you sure that it would be safe?"
"Yes I'm sure, in fact, I bet it was a French plot to overthrow our country."
Georgiana didn't laugh, so he knew that it was not a subject to joke around with her.
At the theatre, Colonel was swarmed with admirers. He certainly was a favorite in London. They all crowded around him. Asking how his day was, and giving Georgiana dirty looks. Few of them new that Georgiana was his cousin and looked at her with pleasure. They new that they wouldn't loose him to that little snobby girl and they were pleased.
The play was long and drawn out, and neither Georgiana or Fitzwilliam cared for it much. Fitzwilliam never was big fan of Shakespeare, and understood that it was something about death and a King named Richard. Just like himself, only he was far from a king was not dead was all Fitzwilliam got out of it. Georgiana knew the story, so she did understand it, but her mind was elsewhere engaged.
Why did Mr. Clark change the subject so abruptly? But then Mr. Wickham! Why did he show up at the ball without Mrs. Wickham? What was he doing there? He did go outside shortly before the scream was heard. Did he kill her? No, not even Mr. Wickham could do such a thing. But what about the woman killed in the alley in the morning. And the people seen walking away from the scene. A tall, dark-haired woman and a short, light-haired man. But what if the man was really tall, and the woman was short. But what if...
Chapter 11
"Georgiana? You look sort of lost."
"Oh, Richard, I was just thinking about the murders."
"Georgie, don't think about such horrid things."
"Well, my mind keeps wandering. What if-"
"What if the world was flat," interrupted Richard with a bit of laughter in his voice, "let's try not to anger our neighbors, they seem to be giving us unkind faces."
That was true. The couple in the next box were starring at them with not so kind faces.
"All right. Let's watch the play."
After that horribly long and drawn out play, that just would agitate your nerves to no end, the crowd disappeared into the lobby and there was where Fitzwilliam saw her. The woman had very expensive gown on and had a half smile on her face. She walked up to Richard and said:
"Colonel Fitzwilliam, do you not recognise me?"
"Why, of course I do. You're- um- well- "
"Sun-"
"Sun..."
"Sunlok..."
"Oh! You're Miss Sunlock!" cried Colonel Fitzwillam. How could I have forgotten. I never forget."
"You're to modest Colonel Fitzwilliam," Miss Sunlock said, with slight sarcasm in her voice. Colonel Fitzwilliam colored as she spoke.
"My goodness, I forgot. May I present Georgiana Darcy to you."
The ladies curtseyed and then Miss Sunlock said:
"My dear, you look as if you have gotten sun. That's a shame. You really should try to use a parasol," she smiled as she said this but inside she was burning with anger. They told me that Colonel Fitzwilliam had a fiancee`, but I never would have thought it would be her. What a thin, frail little sick thin. It won't be any challenge to tear them apart, just like I did with Mr. Harolds and Miss what's her name, oh, I hope I won't have to use the same method. So grueling. Well, I bet that a little disagreement and she will go home crying to mother.
Georgiana had other thoughts too, but that wouldn't be as interesting as Miss Jennifer Sunlock's thoughts.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam, would you and Miss Darcy care to join me for tea tomorrow? It would be such a shame if you couldn't come."
Before consulting his cousin, Fitzwilliam said:
"We would love to. You don't have any plans Georgie. Do you? We would love to."
"Wonderful. Shall I see you at around, oh say, four-o-clock?" So, he calls her by her first name, and a nick name for that matter. This might be more complicated than I expected.
Georgiana nodded and made a weak smile and started walking on by herself, for Fitzwilliam unwound his arm from Georgiana's and offered his to Miss Sunlock. She accepted. Colonel Fitzwilliam was a good man, very talented, but when it came to locking arms with two ladies, well, I will just say that that wasn't one of his strong points.
Georgiana wasn't to pleased by this lady, something false about her. Unfortunately, Richard seemed to have already fell under her spell.
All through tea, at the Inn, Miss Sunlock and Colonel Fitzwilliam talked about all sorts of matters. Novels, music, art, and Georgiana-poor Georgiana-was left to her thoughts. She wasn't quite sure of this person. She just didn't trust her. However, Georgiana did a perfect job of nodding and smiling sweetly at the appropriate parts, and even managed to take Miss Sunlock's suggestions with civility.
"Oh Georgiana, really, I must take you to the new store down the street. It is wonderful. The latest fashions. Pray, where do you shop usually?"
"I am from Derbyshire, so I buy most of my fabric at a store in Lambton."
"Really? Well, I am up to date on the latest fashions from France. We must schedule an outing to go shopping."
Georgiana smiled sweetly and started concentrating on her tea cakes, while Fitzwilliam and Miss Sunlock chatted on about what is the best kind of upholstery for carriages.
"Well, Georgie, what do you think of her?" asked Fitzwilliam when they were in the carriage going home.
"She is nice."
"Just nice?"
"I think that she is a very nice person, but seems to talk a great deal-which is nice," Georgiana said, saving herself.
"Just nice," repeated Richard, sounding a little disappointed.
The rest of the way was rode in silence. They had dinner, then went to the drawing room to read, then played some cards. After that, Georgiana went to sleep. That night was when she herd it first.
Chapter 12
It was a slight scratching outside, in the bushes, as if someone-or something was climbing up the wall, but kept falling back down. At first Georgiana thought nothing of it, just a cat, or a dog, but it kept on occurring, night after night. She got rather frightened, so she went to Richard one day, while he was writing a letter.
"Richard?"
"Yes?"
"I have been hearing some noises, scratching outside at night."
"And..."
"And I was wondering if we could stay up, and try to catch whatever it is."
"And I think that it would be a wonderful thing to go to the Rising's ball. Or maybe the theatre..."
"That will hardly help I think."
"I would greatly like to meet your sister, and so would Georgiana, I believe."
"Richard?" Georgiana asked in an agitated tone, "are you listening to me?"
No response.
"Richard?"
"RICHARD!!!"
"I'm sorry, Georgiana, did you say something?"
She felt like screaming. It was no use. Georgiana couldn't make Richard notice her. He was definitely under Miss Sunlocks's spell, or curse. Whichever it was, Georgiana knew that she had to break it. She had a hunch that if she was gone for a few hours, or maybe a little more, Richard would notice. However she had to do it with tact, for she couldn't get caught at her own game.
"Oh, no, I was just admiring your even hand-writing."
She heard this story a couple of times during the last twelvemonth at her residence at Pemberley.
"Georgie, while you are here, would you do me a favor?"
"Yes, what is it?" she asked in a voice that was almost too sweet.
"Well, would you mind delivering this letter to this address? I know you haven't gotten out much, since the... murders." And with that he sealed the letter, and gave it to his cousin. He couldn't deliver it, he explained, because he was awaiting an important visit from someone at the barracks.
Perfect, she thought. Just perfect.
She looked at the address, and noticed that Miss Sunlock lived near Isabelle. I think that I will pay my friend a little visit.
"I am sorry, Monsieur, but it cannot be done. I mean, Your Grace, that you specifically said that spy was sent to England on a peaceful mission. If he threatens the queen, that would not be very peaceful, I believe. Then your followers would perhaps, not follow."
"Not me sir, I would follow you down a mountain," said one of the other advisers in the room.
"Are you implying, that I am stupid?" His Grace said.
"No not at all."
"Because if you were..."
"I meant that whatever you do, stupid or not, I would do whatever you say."
His Grace's face loomed with anger.
"Take this, this, NOTHING out of here. I never want to see his face again."
The guards took the "nothing" and threw him out.
After the faces of the advisers in the room changed from pure disgust, to pure boredom, M. Talku, resumed speaking, or advising the leader of France.
"Now as I was saying, Your Grace, it does not seem wisest to do something violent toward England, at this time."
"Very well. Maybe you are right. Let us break. I am awfully thirsty. Oh, and what was his name? M. Clark? I believe it was. We should keep him there for a while longer, to see if he gets more information."
"That is a wonderful idea. Pure genius."
There was a series of agreements, and they broke for lunch.
Chapter 13
One day, while Georgiana was preparing to go to the nearby shop, (Richard seemed to have dropped his rule about her going out) she received a letter from Caroline Bingley, saying that she was in town, and she would love for them to see a play. She went on about how she had spent her time in the past month, and possible plays they might see. Georgiana thought about writing a letter in response, but it would be nicer to walk to Grovsner St. and she might even see Mr. Clark a long the way.
She walked on and decide to stop at a shop. She walked in and was looking at some very fine cloth, when she herd two familiar voices.
"My dear Jennifer! Why, I had no idea you were in town."
"Caroline! Why how good it is to see you. I have something wicked to tell you," Miss Sunlock said, with a sly smile on her face.
"Oh Jennifer! Do not keep me in suspense. However, I have an inclining on what it is."
"Where did you hear anything?" she asked quietly.
"Why, it's all over town. Everybody knows."
Miss Sunlock swallowed hard, wrung her hands, and asked:
"What exactly have you herd?"
"I heard, that you are chasing after a very wealthy and handsome man."
Miss Sunlock's eyes sparkled, and she said:
"Yes. He is wonderful. His father is an earl, but there is a slight problem. He is engaged."
"That isn't a problem, you haven't let that stop you before. Remember Miss Norton?"
"Yes I do."
"Now pray, who is it?"
"I will tell you, but I warn you, I believe it is someone you know."
During all of this conversation, Georgiana had managed to hide behind some shelves, and was listening to every word.
"Who is it? I want to be the first to know."
"Here it goes. Colonel Fitzwilliam."
"Ha! You are joking. Now, tell me who it really is."
"I am not joking dear friend."
"Why? Don't you know? He is not rich. Not at all."
"But his father is an earl-"
"Yes, but he has an older brother, and as for being engaged, I can assure you he is as single as an old maid."
"But that frail little girl that is always with him?"
"That is most likely Georgiana Darcy. His cousin. He is her guardian."
"How do you know so much?" asked Miss Sunlock.
"We are related."
"How?"
"My brother, Charles, married a Jane Bennet. Jane's sister, Elizabeth, married Mr. Darcy, and Mr. Darcy is Colonel Fitzwilliam's cousin."
"Why, you are as close as brother and sister!" cried Miss Sunlock, her voice rich in sarcasm.
"Not quite," responded Caroline, missing Miss Sunlock's humor.
"I am glad though, you told me this, before it was too late."
"You mean before you and the Colonel wed?"
"No, I mean before I eliminated the fiancee`! Ha! Let us go for tea."
As they walked out, Georgiana hid herself behind a newspaper, and then hurried home to wait for her cousin.
When Richard came home, he was obviously oblivious to Miss Sunlock's true feelings. He came home whistling and humming and said he had to change to go to the theatre. He asked if Georgiana would like to go, but she declined. She wanted to see her friends, Isabelle and Marrianne, and tell them of Miss Sunlock. But maybe she should go to the police.
She had overheard Miss Sunlock say that she wanted to have her eliminated, and she also wanted to hear more information on the case of the mysterious deaths. Isabelle always was very logical and so she would probably think the best when it came to mysteries.
"So ma'am, let me get this straight. You want us, to reveal top secret information to you, a civilian?"
"My cousin is not a civilian. He is a colonel."
"That doesn't matter. I would not care if your dog, Rover was a General, I can not tell you."
"But my dog's name is not Rover, his name is Oliver. Anyway, what if I had received a death threat, and I am fearing for my life."
"Have you?"
"I said, what if."
"Well, if you did, I would probably have to tell you some dangers."
"Thank you." She smiled sweetly and left the station. She wasn't sure if Miss Sunlock had indeed threatened her, and since she was eavesdropping, she wanted to talk to Isabelle first. She remembered Richard. She wondered if Miss Sunlock had already told him what she thought of him, or if she was going to wait until the play was over, or if she was going to wait at all.
"Miss Darcy, I am sorry, I almost walked into you."
"Excuse-Oh! Mr. Clark. I haven't seen you for a while."
"Yes, and neither have I. I mean that I haven't seen you, not myself."
"How are you doing?"
"I am good. And you?"
"Perfect. I just came from the Police Station. I wanted to know more about the murders."
"And did they tell you anything?"
"No. They said they wouldn't care if my dog, Rover was a general, that they couldn't give me information."
"And what was your reply?"
"I said that they were mistaken, for my dog's name is Oliver."
"Ha! What fools. Always trying to protect, when they don't know what they miss out in."
"Exactly what I feel. Pray, do you know a Miss Jennifer Sunlock?"
"Indeed I do. I hear she is engaged to a Mr. Wickham."
"Wickham? But he is already married!"
"To who?"
"To my sister-in-law's sister!"
"It must be some mistake. Maybe another Wickham, or maybe I herd it wrong."
"Yes, some other Wickham."
"I believe that Miss Sunlock was once a favorite among your cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam."
Was once a favorite? My goodness! News travels fast.
"Yes, I believe they were engaged once, but one of them broke off the engagement. But this was several years ago."
"Oh, I see."
"I would have thought you knew about that."
"No, I never heard a word about it."
"Oh! darn. Well, just between you and me, you did not hear that from me."
"All right. I promise."
So they new each other before. They were engaged! I wonder what happened.
"Well, I must go to my sister's. She lives right here."
"Good Bye. It was good to see you."
"Thank you."
This left her puzzled. Now she had to see Isabelle.
Chapter 14
Georgiana was very happy to find Isabella at home, alone, and she decided to talk to her about the situation. Georgiana told her all about Colonel Fitzwilliam's admiration for her, and what Mr. Clark said about them being engaged before, and what she had overheard Caroline and Miss Sunlock saying.
"Well, this is puzzling, indeed. I can ask my brother, for you and see what he knows about the first engagement, for he is a good friend of Colonel Fitzwilliam."
"Oh, yes, would you?"
Isabella's brother, Robert, was also a Colonel in the army, and this was how Isabella and Georgiana met.
"Robert should be coming home soon, in fact..."
She ran to the window, and sure enough, he was walking up. When he came inside, Isabella asked him about the previous engagement.
"Robert, do you know a Miss Sunlock?"
"Yes, I do."
"Do you know about Colonel Fitzwilliam being engaged to her?"
"He's engaged to her? Again? Oh no! What a fool."
"I didn't say that he's engaged to her at present, but do you remember about their first engagement?"
Colonel Northburry eyed Georgiana carefully, and asked "Why?"
"I am worried about him," said Georgiana, "and I herd from someone that they were engaged before. I would like to know more about that."
"Well, all right. They were indeed engaged before. But, Fitzwilliam had to leave, and Miss Sunlock wanted to stay in Brighton. They had a quarrel, and then they split. Just like that. They remained friends, I believe, but after about a year, Miss Sunlock stopped responding to Fitzwilliam. Apparently she was married. Then, all connection seemed to be lost. But a year ago, Miss Sunlock wrote to Fitzwilliam, saying that her husband had died in a carriage accident, and that she changed her name back to Miss Sunlock. Then came the theatre, and since then, they were inseparable. I never trusted her, and I won't trust her now. Something about her that I can't tell what she is thinking. I just don't trust her. I told Fitzwilliam that he shouldn't get to friendly with her, that she broke his heart before, and she'll probably do it again."
"That is very interesting, brother."
"Yes," replied Georgiana, "but I heard Miss Sunlock saying that she thought that my cousin was the oldest son. If they were engaged, don't you think that he would have told her? She certainly would have had to know about that?"
"What if," said Isabella, "Miss Sunlock knows that Colonel Fitzwilliam will soon be the eldest son."
"Are you saying that Miss Sunlock is going to murder Fitzwilliam's brother? I don't think so Isabella," cried Colonel Northburry.
"Well, think. Miss Norton was engaged to a very wealthy man, who new Miss Sunlock, apparently. Then mysteriously, Miss Norton dies."
"Then wouldn't Miss Sunlock marry the man?" interrupted Georgiana.
"Now, wait. What if then Miss Sunlock remembered about Colonel Fitzwilliam's father's sum of money. Lord Matlock defiantly had more money, and an estate, and it would be a wiser match. All that would happen, is that she would have to get rid of Fitzwilliam's elder brother, and then Fitzwilliam would become Lord Matlock, and then everything would be fine."
"What about what Mr. Clark said to me, about her and Wickham being engaged. What can you make out of that?"
"I don't know. Maybe there is another Wickham?"
"I think that is probably true. If you excuse me, ladies, I must take my leave."
"Good bye Robert."
"Good bye Colonel Northburry."
The two ladies talked and contemplated about this for a while, and then Georgiana decided to go home.
It was in a dark alley where the two men met.
"Clark?"
"Wickham?"
"Yes. It is me. Now, what do you want?"
"Now, now Monsieur Clark, is that a way to talk to me. I know your secret, and I'll tell everybody I know."
"This is blackmail!"
"Call it whatever you want, but I assure you, I and only I, have the advantage."
"All right. Let's get this over with."
"Tell me where the girl is staying."
"Who ever do you mean?"
"YOU KNOW WHO I MEAN!" shouted Wickham.
"All right. Twenty-five w. Martin St."
"Don't lie to me."
"I'm not! That is where Miss Darcy is."
"Good. If you stay quiet, you just might have your secret safe. But if you tell a single soul... ha! I am warning you. Do you understand?"
There was no response from M. Clark.
"Good. Have a nice evening."
He, this is the perfect revenge to Darcy, HA!
Chapter 15
As fast as he could, Mr. Clark ran to Miss Darcy's home. He just had to get there in time. Wickham was the only person in Britain who knew his secret identity. His real identity. He lied to everyone. Including Miss Darcy. Of course he lied to Wickham, but it would be just a matter of time before that evil, wicked man would find out the awful truth. It just wasn't fair. Why did he agree to go on this mission. Back home, to Britain. He was an Englishman by blood, but by nationality he was French. He hadn't seen his family for so long, the images of there faces were beginning to fade. In his early days he had been intrigued by this life of mystery and danger, and never, ever thought of becoming involved with a person. But now he was. He was far too deep to just leave back to France and hope that everything would be all right. He was tired of hoping, dreaming. He wanted to make sure that she was ok. That Wickham wouldn't harm her. Or Miss Sunlock. Or anyone else involved in this matter. He just wanted to warn her, and explain to her who he really was. No more lying, just the truth.
"Miss Darcy, I-ran-all-the-way-here," he said out of breath. "I-had-to-warn-you."
"About what?" she cried.
"There-is-a man," his breathing got back to normal. "He is looking for you."
"Who is this man?"
"Mr. Wickham."
Georgiana went sheet-white. Just the mention of the name made her uneasy.
"He demanded to know where you were staying."
"Did you tell him?"
"No, I made up an address. I hate to know what is going to happen to the people, if any, who live there."
"We must go there at once, and warn the people. This man is dangerous. Who knows what he'll do."
"Do you really think it is safe to go running about the town?"
"It is safer than staying home," she paused, then said, "There is something I must tell you. It is about my past-life."
"There is something I must tell you too, Miss Darcy. Please, let me go first. It might take a while."
"Why don't you tell me in the carriage."
"Excellent idea."
When they got in the carriage, Mr. Clark started telling her everything. How he was sent here on a spy mission, how Mr. Wickham had a blackmail, and how he was in love with her. She listened quietly and she became more like the shy girl before she met Elizabeth, Kitty, Jane, Mr. Clark, Isabelle, and Marrianne. Exactly like the old Miss Darcy. The one Wickham new of. She was going to tell Mr. Clark what her involvement had been with Mr. Wickham, but know she just seemed to shy. It would be wrong. She had to just listen quietly. And listen, and listen.
"I'm sorry, Colonel Fitzwilliam that you feel that way. But it is the only way to get your rightful share."
"I don't want to hear another word about that. He is my brother. If I am forced to live in Cheapside, and eat from the garbage, I will, before I kill my brother."
"Your being awfully stubborn, Messieur."
"I don't care what I'm being, I just want you to leave the premises, before I lose my temper."
"As you wish, but remember, you are missing a golden opportunity."
"LEAVE!!"
And that is how, Colonel Fitzwilliam, son of the Lord of Matlock, missed out on his golden opportunity, his one last chance to be of some wealth, to have riches galore, to marry whom he wanted. Yes, some say that he lost out, but others say that he just gained what he had been missing all these years.
Conclusion
Colonel Fitzwilliam came home sad and distraught. How could he have been so ignorant? Everybody saw that she wasn't interested in him, just the money and prestige that he could have had if... What a terrible thought to think of. He didn't know where Georgiana was, but he hopped that she would come home soon. He was sick of London, of the people, the parties, even a visit to Kent seemed welcome at this time.
"Are you sure that you gave him this address, Mr. Clark?"
"Yes. I am sure. We must go inside, and see if he has been here already."
"Let us go."
They went inside, telling the servants that they were friends of the family, and that they needed to pick up a vase. They were excepting the worst, even though they didn't know what the worst would be. They just knew that they had to be prepared. However, nothing could prepare them for the site that they were to see.
It was a gorgeous apartment, Georgiana wouldn't mind living there, and there on the floor was a lacy, dainty, little handkerchief. Mr. Clark picked it up, and on it had a message written in ink on it: I am sorry I missed you. Maybe, we shall meet again, someday. But for now, I must go.
"I wonder what he meant by that?"
"I don't know. Why don't we check other rooms."
In the other rooms, there everything was wrong. The candles were on the floor, the chairs were overturned, just everything upside down.
"Oh my goodness. He must have come looking for me, and overturned everything in the process," cried Georgiana.
"We must leave immediately. We must call the authorities."
"But what will we tell them? That we were snooping in another person's home, that we lied to the servants, and that the man who did this was actually looking for me? It cannot be. We must leave immediately without saying anything. Let's go!"
"Yes ma'am," said Mr. Clark, "or rather should I say the future Mrs. Clark?" he asked with a grin on his face.
They left the place after that, telling the servants that they did not find the vase, and tried to set a day for the wedding. They wondered whom they would tell first, besides Colonel Fitzwilliam, and were absolutely content. Who would know that things would end in that happy way? Defiantly not the bride and groom to be, for they have always been teased by their acquaintances that they did not have any intuition, and could not predict how things would turn out. Luckily, however, they did know that Mr. Wickham, would not be coming back for a long time.
Everybody was glad about the wedding, however for some strange reason, Mr. and Mrs. Wickham could not make it, for unknown reasons, and afterward, they couple traveled, and saw the world. They were a happy couple for as long as they both lived, and never had they mentioned Mr. Wickham again, and he soon drifted from both of their memories. Georgiana still saw her friends Isabella and Marianne very often, and know the tables had turned, and Georgiana was know telling them of young men whom they should meet, and they always complied with her wishes. Colonel Fitzwilliam decided to take a vacation from the daily hassles of London, and he did indeed decide to visit somewhere, but just not Kent. However, his vacation is another adventure, that would take a whole novel to tell.