Prologue
A powerful surge of emotion propelled him from his seat; thoughtlessly dropping
the hand, he treasured above all others. Fitzwilliam Darcy had always prided
himself on his proper decorum and restraint, but now he found himself angrily
pacing the small drawing room. “I was a fool! None of this would have occurred
if I had voiced some of my private concerns to the world. Wickham, you have
always been a constant thorn in my side, but this time you have gone too far!”
Though tremors of disgust shuddered through his body and his face drained of all
its colour, it was the sight of Elizabeth that suddenly brought him up short.
She sat alone, still, looking forlorn as if she had forever lost something
precious to her, her tears of dismay slowly trailing down her flushed cheeks.
Oh, Elizabeth, do not cry, my love. I promise you, if it is the last thing I do,
I will remedy this situation
With his resolution firmly set, Darcy placed himself at Elizabeth’s side,
reclaiming her hand.
“Miss Bennet, I know many of Mr Wickham’s old friends in town.” The distaste in
his voice could not be disguised and he breathed deeply before continuing. “If
I may, I would like to be of assistance to your family."
Elizabeth heard his words but could scarcely comprehend their meaning. She
looked up at him but not yet able to speak, she sadly nodded her head.
Barely able to withstand so much pain written over every feature of her beloved
face, Darcy reached for his handkerchief and tried to give it to her, but she
held onto his hand as if he were the only lifeline to a happier time.
Not at all averse to their being tightly hand clasped, he awkwardly dabbed at
her tear-stained face and asked in a gentle and husky voice, "I will stay here
to await your uncle, but you have suffered a terrible shock. May I get you
something, a glass of wine perhaps?"
"Tea," Elizabeth finally gasped out. "A cup of tea please."
He left his handkerchief with her and with a final squeeze of her hand, arose to
do her bidding. Thankfully, when he reached the hallway, the servant girl,
Hannah, was nearby. His request was swiftly conveyed and she left to attend to
it.
While Hannah was laying out the tea service in front of Elizabeth, Darcy tried
to mask his impatience by walking to the window and making a great show of
searching the lanes for the Gardiner’s arrival.
He stopped only when he heard Elizabeth ask the servant, "Has John returned yet,
Hannah? I wonder where my aunt and uncle can be."
Hannah saw the urgency in her young mistress' eyes and while responding in the
negative to the question, she exited the room thinking she should step outside
for a moment and have a look for herself.
When Darcy heard the servant girl depart, he slowly turned from the window.
What he saw made him rush to her side. Elizabeth was trying to pour herself a
cup of tea, but her hands were trembling so much that the teacup was starting to
rattle on the saucer, and she was in real danger of dropping the teapot itself.
"Here, let me do that."
"Do you know, I came here not for tea, but to ask you to a picnic today? There
is a lovely glen not far from my house that is the ideal place for dining
outdoors. I know both my sister and I will be very sorry you will miss this
opportunity of seeing it for yourself, but perhaps you will give us the
privilege of your company the next time you and your family are in the
neighbourhood."
Elizabeth's pulse quickened, first in shock, then in pleasure and finally in
dark despair as she thought of all the families that were sure to snub them in
the future.
Darcy watched the play of shifting emotions on her face and sensing what she was
thinking, smiled warily and told her, "Remember, Miss Bennet, both my sister and
I have first hand knowledge of Mr Wickham's character. You will always be
welcome at Pemberley."
This announcement caused her tears to start flowing again and threatened to
become sobs. Darcy wanted to enfold her in his arms, to kiss away her tears and
call her his dearest Elizabeth. His arms started to reach for her, but stopped
when he remembered he had no right to do any of those things. So strong was the
temptation, that he held his arms rigidly against his body, clenched his fists
in frustration and closed his eyes tightly as he forced his mind to deal with
the more practical matters.
"I'm so sorry, Mr Darcy..."
"Shh, none of that. Will you tell me what your sister has written? Does she
know how long they have been gone from Brighton?"
Elizabeth reopened one of the letters and scanned the lines before reading. “She
mentions that they departed last Sunday night. Lydia left a note for Mrs Foster
stating that they were headed for Gretna Green.”
“And how did his Colonel react when he read her letter? Did he make any
enquiries among his officers?”
Elizabeth paused to read more of Jane's letter before answering. “Yes, he did,
after he sent an express to my family. The knowledge he received from Wickham's
comrades was so disturbing that he immediately set off for Longbourn and arrived
about an hour after the express did.”
As Elizabeth was answering, Darcy's concern was growing to an alarming
proportion. He schooled his features, for her sake, to be neutral as he asked,
with a decided measure of dread in his mind, “May I ask what alarmed the Colonel
so much?” He poured another cup of tea for her and made her take a sip or two
before allowing her to answer.
Elizabeth's face crimsoned when she reluctantly said, “Captain Denny seemed to
think his intentions were to use Lydia and what little money she had to escape
his creditors.”
At this confirmation of Wickham's usual behaviour, Darcy shot out of his seat
and started agitatedly pacing the floor again, muttering in a low but not
inaudible voice, “Damnation! Wickham, you are a cad, and if I could, I'd make
you suffer for every despicable thing you have ever done.”
Hearing Elizabeth's gasp, he quickly realized she had heard his unfortunate
comment. “Forgive me, Miss Bennet, but I could have done something about this
situation.”
Elizabeth felt as if the bottom had dropped out of her world. “I fear that
there was little that you could have done to rectify the problem. It all seems
hopeless.” She covered her eyes with her hands and wept.
Darcy was moving back towards Elizabeth’s side, searching his pockets for
another handkerchief when Mr and Mrs Gardiner made their entrance into the room.
Seeing Elizabeth’s tear-stained face, puffy eyes and a soaked handkerchief in
her lap, Mrs Gardiner hastened to comfort her niece.
At first, Mr Gardiner was stunned by seeing Elizabeth in such a sorrowful state,
but perceiving the initials FD stitched on the linen, turned and glared at its
owner.
“Mr Darcy, I hope that you have some explanation for the scene I see before me.”
“Yes sir,” and turning to Elizabeth, Darcy said, “If you will allow me the
privilege, Miss Bennet?”
Elizabeth heard the anger in her normally genial uncle’s voice and fumbled with
the seals, trying to reopen Jane’s letters. She unsteadily arose and tried to
hand them to her uncle, but the pages fluttered to the ground.
Darcy retrieved them and handed them back to Elizabeth, who hastily tried to put
the sheets back in the proper order as she told her uncle, “These letters will
explain everything. Jane writes to tell us that Lydia has eloped.”
Mr Gardiner looked as though he had been slapped. “Eloped? With whom would
Lydia elope?”
Before Elizabeth could answer, Darcy spoke up as he gently led her back to where
her aunt was sitting. “George Wickham, sir.”
There was no need for either man to contribute more to the discussion of the
man’s prospects. Mr Gardiner had found the townspeople talkative, but rather
circumspect when the subject of George Wickham arose. Although their opinions
were guarded, Mr Gardiner heard enough information to make his own conclusions.
As he quickly scanned through Jane’s letters, he knew he must act as quickly as
possible.
“Madeline, Elizabeth, my dears, in light of this situation, we must leave
Lambton immediately. Let me call the servants to begin our packing.”
When he returned several minutes later, he was quite surprised to see Mr Darcy
still ensconced in the sitting room and a fresh pot of tea ready to be poured on
the table in front of the ladies.
Darcy knew his presence was interfering in the Gardiner’s preparations and so
quickly made his offer. “Mr Gardiner, I stayed with your niece to await your
return. Wickham and I grew up together and I know who, and more importantly
where, his friends are in the city. May I suggest that you and I travel
directly to London and confer with Mr Bennet as soon as possible? I will send
one of my own carriages to escort the ladies and your servants to Longbourn.
The carriage, Mrs Gardiner, will be at your disposal for when you and the
children are ready to return to London.”
“I thank you, sir, for your offer. From what information I have gathered about
this young man, speed is essential,” Mr Gardiner replied. “Mr Darcy, I must ask
for your discretion. I am sure you realize the implications if your friends and
the world in general learns of this.”
“Of course, sir, I understand. You have my hand on that.”
With all in agreement with his suggestions, the next hour found the Gardiner
party busy with farewell letters and settling of accounts. Darcy, who had
returned to Pemberley, spoke with both his housekeeper and valet, then went in
search of Bingley.
Finding him in the billiard room, Darcy said quietly,
“Bingley, would you please step into my study for a moment? Something urgent
has arisen that I need to discuss with you.”
“Of course, my friend. May I help in anyway?”
The study was a medium sized room, with panelled walls lined with shelves for
account and farming books. Towards the back of the room, near these shelves for
easy access, was a large writing desk where Mr Darcy normally worked. At the
back of the desk was a large window, which allowed for adequate light during the
day. Mr Darcy walked over to the side table that held decanters of brandy,
whisky and port. Pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts, he poured them
both two healthy glasses of port and handed one to his friend, while motioning
him to take a seat in one of the four well-padded chairs, which flanked the
ornate fireplace.
“Bingley, I have a very important request to ask of you,” Darcy said gravely.
“I have just returned from Lambton where I found that Miss Elizabeth Bennet and
her family have received news of a family emergency and are planning to leave as
soon as possible.”
“I am sorry to hear about Miss Elizabeth, I hope it is nothing too serious,” Mr
Bingley said sounding concerned. “Do you have any idea as to the nature of the
emergency? I hope that it is nothing to do with Miss Bennet.”
“Yes,” Darcy replied thoughtfully after taking a drink of his port. “I do know
why they have left, but unfortunately, I cannot tell you, as I have been sworn
to secrecy. I can tell you that Miss Bennet is well and is at Longbourn with
her family.” At this statement, Darcy could see first the visible relief on
Bingley’s face followed quickly by one of wistfulness and longing. He now knew
he was very wrong to interfere in his friend’s life and he must make amends as
quickly as possible. Darcy then rose and refilled his glass and brought the
decanter over to refill Bingley’s. After refilling both their glasses, he
walked over to the fireplace with a gloomy air.
After a few moments of silence, Bingley looked up. “What do you want to ask me
Darcy?”
Turning to face him Darcy said, “Unfortunately, urgent business that needs my
personal attention calls me back to London immediately. I am sorry that this
has occurred so early on in your visit, but it cannot be helped. While I am
away, I need you to act as host, and look after Georgiana for me. I hope to be
back within two weeks at the most.”
Bingley smiled and said, “Of course, Darcy, you know I will. As for this
business that calls you back to London, is there anything I can do to help?”
Returning to his seat opposite Bingley, Darcy replied seriously, “No, I am
sorry, Bingley, but thank you for asking. The best help you can give me is to
stay here with my sister at Pemberley. I am sorry to say this, but you know how
your sisters can be when they are put out. I do not want them to impose too
much on Georgiana as she will be acting as hostess for the first time.”
“Yes, I know that Caroline will probably have a fit of pique due to your
leaving, she had so looked forward to this visit, but I will ensure that she
does not impose on Georgiana’s hospitality,” Bingley told him seriously.
“Hurst, Louisa, and Caroline will be leaving for Scarborough the week after you
return.”
“Perhaps when I return, we could go to Netherfield for a few weeks, while your
sisters are in Scarborough. We could do some shooting and call on some of our
old friends?”
Understanding just who those “old friends” were, Bingley grinned as he replied,
“Yes, it would be most remiss of us to ignore our old friends in Hertfordshire.
Perhaps by then their troubles will be over.”
“Yes, perhaps,” Darcy briefly smiled at his friend. Glancing at the mantelpiece
clock, he continued, “I am sorry, Bingley, but I had better inform Georgiana
about my plans.” They shook hands then both exited the study. Mr Bingley went
back to the billiard room and Mr Darcy in search of his sister.
*~*~*~*~*~*
The sound of a beautiful melody led Darcy to his sister. He had purchased a new
pianoforte for her birthday and now saw the look of enchantment on her face as
she played. Not wanting to disturb that look, he stood in the doorway of the
music room, observing her until the song was ended and then glanced around the
room for her audience. He was relieved to see that neither of Bingley’s sisters
was in attendance, although when he thought about it, he should not be
surprised. The ladies always breakfasted in their rooms, spending most of the
morning in their boudoirs indulging in their personal ablutions and remained
there until well into the afternoon.
Georgiana was so lost in concentration that at first she did not hear her
brother enter the room, but greeted him with enthusiasm and a little bit of
surprise that the Gardiner party had not accompanied him back to Pemberley. Not
answering this remark directly, Darcy quickly asked his sister for a private
conversation away from the house. She understood the nature of his request,
closed the instrument and hastily went to fetch a shawl and bonnet. Georgiana
knew whatever William had to tell her was not for the servant’s and more
importantly, the Bingley sisters’ ears. She knew the servants would be
discreet, but their guests were known for their love of gossip, the more
malicious the better.
The siblings left the house and walked up towards a secluded copse on the estate
grounds, which was filled with mossy grasses and wild flowers. When their
parents had been alive, it had been a favourite picnic spot during the summer,
now it was a place to remember the good times or to think, as not many people
knew of this area.
Mr Darcy had noticed over the last few months that Georgiana was at last getting
over her terrible experience with Mr Wickham that had taken place the year
before. Therefore, he decided to tell her fully about what had happened,
knowing that Georgiana would keep it to herself.
Once assured of their solitude, Mr Darcy told her in a solemn tone of voice,
“Georgie, I fear that I have distressing news to tell you”
“William, this sounds very serious,” Georgiana said worriedly
“Yes, Georgie, it is. I think that you had better sit down first.” He motioned
to a log, which many years ago had been carved into a bench.
Taking a deep breath he said as gently as possible, “Mr Wickham has run off
under disguise of elopement with Miss Elizabeth’s youngest sister, Lydia.”
Watching the myriad of emotions that then played on his sister’s face, shock,
horror, anger and then fury, Darcy began to regret mentioning it to her. When
she finally spoke, the harsh and vehement tone of her voice, a tone he had never
heard from her ever before, surprised him.
“That brute! I hope they find her soon before he disappears again. And this
time I hope someone makes him pay for what he has done.” Closing her eyes and
taking a deep breath to try to calm herself, she then said in a more solemn
manner. “Pray, William, how is Miss Elizabeth? I know that she must be very
upset. I feel sorry for her sister, the poor girl! I know she has been
deceived by him as have all the others including myself.”
“Georgie, I am sorry to say that Miss Elizabeth is severely pained to hear of
what has happened to her sister. As you know, I went to see her to arrange a
picnic for this afternoon. When I arrived at the inn, I found her in a state of
shock and extremely distressed. Fortunately, I was able to give her some
assistance until Mr and Mrs Gardiner arrived. But, Georgie, do you still blame
yourself for what happened last summer?”
“I should have known better,” Georgiana said pensively. “William, are you going
to help search for him? Please say you will; you know you are the only one who
can find him.”
“Of course, I am going to help her, Georgie. I am departing for London with Mr
Gardiner as soon as the carriage pulls up to our front door. I have also made
arrangements to convey Mrs Gardiner, Miss Elizabeth and their servants back to
Longbourn.”
“William, is there anything I can do to help?” Georgiana asked, looking up at
her brother with concern in her eyes.
Darcy, relieved that Georgiana was putting other people’s cares first instead of
recriminations against herself, smiled and said affectionately, “Yes, Georgie, I
need you to act as hostess for me whilst I am away. Do not worry, I have asked
Mr Bingley to look after you so that his sisters do not impose too much on you.”
After a thoughtful pause, she asked, “Do you think Wickham will marry Miss
Elizabeth’s sister?”
“Yes, this time he will marry the young lady he has compromised,” her brother
replied firmly. Looking at his pocket watch he said lovingly to her, “I must be
going now, sweetheart. Promise me you will look after yourself, whilst I am in
London.”
Georgiana pouted, “Fitzwilliam Darcy! I am not a baby anymore. I can certainly
take care of myself.”
“I know, Georgie. I am so proud of you, Miss Darcy.”
She rewarded him by standing on her tiptoes and kissing him gently on the cheek.
They then both left the grove and walked back to the house where Darcy’s coach
and four was awaiting him at the front of the house. Upon entering the house,
he went to find his guests and spoke his farewells.
*~*~*~*~*~*
Arriving at the inn in Lambton, he saw that the Gardiner party were awaiting him
in the sitting room. For the safety of the two women and servants, Darcy lent
them his fastest coach and horses along with two armed footmen. Overseeing
their trunks loaded into the correct carriages distracted the Gardiners for a
moment and Elizabeth shyly approached Darcy.
“Mr Darcy, I would like to thank you for your help and support. You helped me
past a very difficult moment.”
The look he gave her was intense, full of longing to have done even more. “It
was nothing, Miss Bennet, I am glad that I was there to help you when you needed
it,” Because his gaze flustered her, he added in a conversational tone, “Miss
Bennet, before I left Pemberley this morning, I spoke with Mr Bingley. When his
sisters and Hurst leave to call on friends in the next few weeks, he is thinking
of visiting Netherfield and is making preparations for his return.”
“I am glad that you have encouraged Mr Bingley to go back to Netherfield, Mr
Darcy. I hope that you will accompany him. Please say you will.” Elizabeth
blushed at the implication behind his words.
Seeing it, Darcy asked with his heart in his throat, “Would you object to my
accompanying him when he returns, Miss Bennet?”
“I will look forward to it, Mr Darcy,” Elizabeth replied with a radiant smile on
her face. “Thank you, God. Oh thank you! He is coming. I will see him
again.”
When both the coaches were announced as ready for their travels, Mr Darcy turned
to Elizabeth and Mrs Gardiner and said,
“I hope you have a swift and safe journey back to Longbourn, Mrs Gardiner, Miss
Bennet.”
“I thank you for your kindness, sir,” said Mr Gardiner, “It has given me much
peace of mind knowing that my wife and niece will be safe.” He then handed his
wife into the Darcy coach.
“Mr Darcy, I would also like to thank you for everything, I hope that you will
have a safe journey with my uncle and that you will be successful in finding Mr
Wickham and my sister, sir,” Elizabeth said with tears again in her eyes.
“Thank you, Miss Bennet, I am certain we will find them,” Mr Darcy said as he
handed her into his carriage.
Without letting go of his hand she whispered softly to him, “Goodbye, for now,
Mr Darcy. I hope that we will see you soon at Longbourn.”
He did not release her hand as he whispered, “Of that you maybe certain.” They
gazed wistfully at each other until Mr Gardiner turned back from the other
carriage and coughed discretely.
“Walk on now, Stevens,” Mr Darcy said to his coachman. Both men stood watching
the carriage carrying the loves of their hearts drive away until it was out of
sight, then without a further word, boarded their own coach.
Chapter One
The gentlemen arrived in London on the third day of their travels, staying two
nights at the inns Darcy regularly used when travelling. It was early evening
when the coach pulled up at Gracechurch Street, and a weary Mr Gardiner and
Darcy entered the yellow drawing room where Mr Bennet had been awaiting them.
Mr Bennet arose to greet his brother-in-law saying, “Edward, thank goodness you
are here.” He then noticed with amazement that Mr Darcy had accompanied him.
Quickly recovering himself he said, “Mr Darcy, you are most welcome, sir.”
Noticing Mr Bennet’s astonishment, Darcy said, “Sir, forgive the intrusion into
your private affairs but I have come along with Mr Gardiner to offer my help in
locating Mr Wickham and your youngest daughter. Due to Mr Wickham’s unfortunate
connection to my family, I know many of his friends and old haunts in London.”
Mr Bennet was extremely pleased at this information. “Sir, I believe I would
welcome any help in this matter, as I can see that Mr Wickham is not a man to be
trusted and will abandon my daughter if he is not found soon. I thank you for
your assistance.”
Darcy then informed both gentlemen of Mr Wickham’s history with his family.
“Sir, Miss Elizabeth has told me of the many rumours Mr Wickham as been
spreading around Meryton about my family and my dealings with him. I have
explained the truth in these matters, but asked her not to tell anyone as it
involved my sister. I would also ask the same of you both.”
“Mr Wickham is a terribly ungrateful young man. Of course, neither Mr Bennet
nor I will mention what you have told us, Mr Darcy. We understand that you want
to protect your sister,” Mr Gardiner replied looking at Mr Bennet who nodded in
agreement.
They then discussed a plan to recover Lydia. Once an agreement was made, they
arranged to meet early the following morning. Darcy informed both gentlemen
that his cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam would accompany him. Darcy bade
them farewell until the morning and returned to his house in Belgrave Square.
Once they were alone, Mr Gardiner and Mr Bennet entered the library, where Mr
Gardiner’s cook had provided them with a cold but welcome repast. Relaxing, Mr
Bennet then began his inquiries.
“Pray tell me now, Edward, how do you know Mr Darcy, and how did Mr Darcy come
to find out about our troubles? I want to hear everything from the beginning.
Please do not leave out any detail.”
“Very well, Thomas.” Mr Gardiner said with a sigh, “We met Mr Darcy while
touring his estate at Pemberley. The next day he and his sister came to visit
us at the inn where we were staying in Lambton. As relatives of Lizzy’s, we
were invited to dinner on Wednesday evening. I was asked to go fishing with the
gentlemen of the party during the day, whilst Madeline and Lizzy visited with
the ladies. I must say that we all had a delightful time.”
Mr Bennet looked over at Mr Gardiner with some annoyance in his features, “Who
told him about this dreadful business, then?”
“Do not look at me like that! I was not the one who told him what had
happened,” Mr Gardiner replied. “Apparently, he called at the inn on Thursday
morning to see Lizzy. He had arranged an outing - a picnic I think it was, with
his sister and friends who are staying at his house and was hopeful that we
would all attend. When he arrived at the inn, he found Lizzy in a terrible
state of shock after reading Jane’s letters. He immediately dispatched a
servant to bring us back to the inn as soon as possible and remained with her
until our arrival.”
“That was very good of him. How is my Lizzy? It must have been as great a
shock to her as it was to the rest of us.” Mr Bennet said thoughtfully, looking
down at the brandy glass in his hand. He had been worried about how Lizzy would
take the news of Lydia’s elopement.
“Lizzy was extremely upset when we arrived and as soon as Madeline and I learned
the reason why, we of course were just as shocked.” Mr Gardiner said as he
walked to the sideboard filling his plate full of food.
“From the information I had been given about Mr Wickham in Lambton, I could tell
that he was not the reputable man we had all thought him to be. Therefore, I
was thankful when Mr Darcy asked if he could help us find them. I must say,
Thomas, that he is a very responsible young man who cares for Lizzy a great
deal, and from what both Madeline and I could ascertain, Lizzy seems to be
falling in love with him too.”
“I am glad to hear that Lizzy is finally seeing the goodness in him. Last year,
when he arrived at Meryton, many thought he acted as though he was above our
society. He was very reserved and did not speak to anyone unless it was
absolutely necessary. After what Mr Darcy has told us tonight, I now understand
his reserve. He is very much like his father in that respect,” Mr Bennet said
thoughtfully.
“When Wickham told everyone of his background with Mr Darcy, it did not sound
quite right to me; it was as though something were missing. I watched Mr
Wickham very carefully and observed that his eyes were emotionless and had a
closed look to them. What struck me most, was that he waited until Mr Darcy had
left the district before telling everyone his sad tale.”
“I agree with you,” said Mr Gardiner as he finished drinking his brandy. “When
we came to Meryton last Christmas, he told us, total strangers mind you, what
had happened to him. I think Lizzy must have informed him that Madeline had
grown up in Lambton for he spent a considerable time asking about her
acquaintances there. Madeline did not like him at all; she said that there was
something just not right about him. Most people in Lambton are very genial but
upon mentioning Mr Wickham’s name, many people became very guarded about what
they said to us. Madeline approached a few close friends in confidence, and I
must say we were surprised at what they told us. After what we had heard, both
Madeline and I were extremely glad to see that Lizzy was not seriously attached
to him,”
“I knew George Darcy from Cambridge,” said Mr Bennet. “I could not believe that
his son would have gone against his father’s last wishes. As you know, I have
been good friends with Hugh Fitzwilliam for nearly thirty years. Hugh explained
how close Mr Darcy had been to his parents, and how highly he respected them.”
Rising, he went over to the sideboard to help himself to a few sandwiches and
then continued.
“I asked Hugh what he knew about Mr Wickham. He informed me that the first part
of his story being the son of the steward was true and that George Darcy had
been generous with him, supporting him all the way through Cambridge. He told
me that his youngest son Richard, who is my godson by the way, gave him the
impression that the friendship between the three of them had cooled considerably
because Wickham spent all of his time in the non-academic pursuits of university
life. Not long after George’s death, all contact was broken, but I was not
given the details. I assumed it was a dispute over the will. This information
was serious enough that I knew that there had to be something more to his story.
I kept my eye on Wickham, but never saw or heard anything from anyone in
Meryton to confirm my suspicions, until this nasty business began. Then
everyone had a story to tell. In hindsight I should have known something was
wrong. Richard, even though it is nearly twenty years since
I saw him last, was not a person to take a dislike to anyone without a good
reason. The only reason I allowed Lydia to go to Brighton was because she was
under the protection of the colonel of the regiment and I thought the experience
would do her some good. I know Lizzy treated Wickham differently when she came
back from Hunsford, but I thought nothing of it. ”
“While we were touring Pemberley, but before we met Mr Darcy, Lizzy informed
Madeline that we had been duped by Wickham’s outward appearance. At first, we
did not take much notice, but when what Lizzy had told us was confirmed by Mr
Darcy’s housekeeper, Mrs Reynolds, Madeline and I decided to speak to her
friends on the subject as well. Do you want another glass of brandy, Thomas?”
Mr Gardiner asked.
“Please, Edward, it will help me sleep tonight. I now understand why Lizzy
tried to dissuade me from allowing Lydia to go to Brighton. She understood
Wickham’s true nature and could see how much Lydia seemed to favour him, which
worried her. Because she had been sworn to secrecy, she could not tell me what
she knew and because of this, she did not succeed in convincing me to keep Lydia
at home. I had no idea that there was an attachment between Lydia and Wickham.
I knew she favoured some of the other officers. I blame myself for all this. I
can see that I will have to do more to protect Kitty and Mary.”
“Well I do not know about you, Thomas, but I am off to bed. After the emotional
time we have had over the last few days, I am feeling quite tired. Mr Darcy
said he would be here at 9 o’clock with his cousin.”
“I was surprised and pleased to hear that Richard would be helping in the search
for Wickham. Richard was about ten years old the last time I saw him. I knew
through my correspondence with Hugh that he had taken a commission in the Army,
and how proud he was of him,” Mr Bennet said thoughtfully drinking the last of
his brandy. “I agree, with you Edward, it is time for me turn in as well, I
will see you in the morning.”
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Chapter Two
[b]VINAIGRETTE: A small box of about two to three inches in size, usually made
of silver, which contained smelling salts or a pleasant smelling perfume. It
was either used as a medical aid for women or to mask the terrible smells of the
city due to rubbish thrown out of the windows, and from open sewers. The
vinaigrette box was held under the nose so that people could not smell the
offending odours as they rode or walked past these places.
The Runners: The full name “The Bow Street Runners.” This was the earliest form
of police that worked in London. They were feared by many, especially thieves
and wastrels. They were known to be very ruthless. The Runners policed London
until in the late 1800’s. Robert Peel organised them into the start of the
police force we know today.
Chit: Impudent or pert girl[/b]
Darcy arrived in Belgrave Square exhausted, but knew he could not yet retire for
the evening. After apologizing to his butler for his unexpected arrival, he
requested refreshments for himself and ordered him to admit no one unless it was
his cousin or Messrs. Bennet and Gardiner. He was still out of town to anyone
else.
Settling in his study, Darcy sat down at his desk and tried to concentrate on a
batch of correspondence that had not yet been forwarded to Pemberley. About an
hour after his arrival and no further along in his estate business than when he
first sat down, his cousin stormed into the room, waving Darcy’s hastily
scribbled note.
“What has that bastard done now?”
Darcy looked up from his account books and glared at the sudden interruption but
his features quickly relaxed when he saw who it was. “Good, you got my letter.
Wickham has run away from his creditors again.”
The Colonel sat down in the leather chair opposite his cousin. “There is more,
is there not? Do tell, Darcy. The sooner you do, the sooner I can run him
through with my sword. Has he been trying to get in touch with Georgie again?”
“Absolutely not. He ran off with Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s sixteen year-old
sister. The chit can think of nothing but being married to an officer and
fancies Wickham is taking her to Gretna Green, but I know he is hiding here in
London. You met Miss Elizabeth; she is a gentleman’s daughter. We must make
Wickham marry the girl or else the family will be ruined. I will not allow that
to happen, Richard!”
The Colonel was thoughtful for a moment. “Miss Elizabeth Bennet? We haven’t seen
her for over four months. How did you ever learn of this sad affair?”
Darcy’s cheeks flushed for a moment before answering with a touch of impatience,
“Never mind that for now, can I count on your support?”
With a wide grin on his face, he answered as he spied his cousin’s array of fine
spirits on the sideboard, “You may rely on me. As much as I would like to get my
hands around his throat, I assume you have plans for him and the youngest Miss
Bennet’s future together? Where do we start?”
“I do, and I’ll have a brandy, too, while you are pouring yourself a drink. Do
you remember Mrs Younge, Georgiana’s former companion? She runs a rather
disreputable guesthouse in Edward Street. If Wickham is not there, my guess is
that she knows where he is.”
His cousin brought the two drinks back to the desk and sat down again. “But I
will wager it will cost you a pretty penny to get the address out of her.”
“Not with the information I have on her. Remember my mother’s silver pillbox and
vinaigrette that went missing shortly after her employment with us began? By
chance, I was walking past Crocket and Brown pawnbroker’s shop and saw those two
items along with two vases in the window. Can you believe it Richard? She
didn’t even bother to use a false name! When I informed the pawnbrokers that the
items were stolen, they were quite forthcoming with a report of her. I have
their written statement, which matches her description perfectly. I do not think
she will want the Runners at her door.” He swallowed another mouthful of his
drink and laid his glass down.
“That should scare her enough to reveal his location, but trust me, as a
military man, I can tell you that we will need to have reinforcements in place
to keep him from fleeing. I saw Fields and Mathews in our encampment the other
day. I am sure they would be most interested to hear that Wickham was nearby.”
The Colonel smirked, “I do not think it will take much to persuade them to call
upon him again as soon as they know of his location.”
“Care to make an unexpected social call on Mrs Younge tonight, Richard?”
“Indeed. You know Darcy, I could never understand why a woman of her standing
would mix with the likes of Wickham,” the Colonel said thoughtfully.
Darcy finished his drink and shrugged his shoulders before tackling the mystery
he could solve. “Once we find Wickham, we will take Mr Bennet with us so he can
escort his daughter to Gracechurch Street. Then with Miss Lydia out of the way,
we will be able to work on him. Can you summon Fields and Mathews tonight and
tell them to bring some trustworthy and muscular men with them? That should be
all the insurance we need to guarantee that he will not flee tonight.”
*~*~*~*~*~*
Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam met Matthews and Fields at a public house called
The Red Dragon, not far from Mrs Younge’s establishment. They paid the publican
three golden crowns for his best room and asked that two large bottles of brandy
be brought to them and then stated that they were not to be disturbed. The room
was small, but suited their needs. It was clean with a large round table with
six chairs around it. The publican brought the bottles of brandy and glasses
then left the room.
“Gentlemen, you probably want to know the full reason why we have asked you to
meet us here. I need your help with the apprehension of George Wickham.” Mr
Darcy said solemnly. Both men’s faces went white with anger at this. “We need
your help to put a stop to him ruining any more young ladies. Under the
disguise of elopement, he has run away with a young girl of sixteen, the
daughter of a gentleman.”
Matthews arose and started to pace the room in agitation, then poured himself
and the rest of the company large glasses of brandy.
“As usual, he is in debt up to his eyes. The young lady had some money, and he
needed to escape from his creditors. As you know, as soon as the child’s money
runs out, he will be looking for his next conquest,” the Colonel said, watching
both men’s faces for a reaction. “We want to make sure that this will be the
last time he ever does this. Revenge is yours, gentlemen. We need to extract a
promise from him that he will marry her, and you will have the challenge of
making sure he stays faithful to her. I am going to buy him an ensign’s
position in your regiment.”
“We are going to see Mrs Younge who rents a large house at Seven Edward Street.
She is a good friend of his and will know where he is staying. Once we have
this information, we will need someone to keep watch overnight. I do not want
him escaping during the night,” Mr Darcy informed them.
After drinking the brandy in one swallow, Matthews said with a big grin on his
face, “Delightful! I cannot wait to get my hands on the bastard that seduced my
Margaret. It has taken her three years to overcome what happened. I hope the
woman he marries will make his life hell. Oh yes, I will dearly love to extract
this promise from him. As for keeping an eye on him overnight, my brother and
nephews, who like myself are also on leave, will make sure he does not go
anywhere.” He then refilled his glass while watching Fields, who looked
similarly pleased at the prospect of revenge.
“Yes, I agree, I cannot wait to get my hands on him myself. Alice was terrified
to go out of the house for almost a year. If she had not gone to your estate in
Lake District, Mr Darcy, I think she would have ended up in Bedlam,” Fields
said. “What is this young lady like? Do you know her? I will make sure that
he will be faithful. He will never gamble again, that is for certain. General
Webster does not approve of gamesters like Wickham.”
Mr Darcy finishing his drink, and started to laugh, “Oh yes, I know the young
lady, and she will drive him to distraction after a few months of marriage.
They are both of the same ilk-selfish, self-centred, and loud. You will see
tomorrow what she is like. Now, the Colonel and I first have to extract from
Mrs Younge the whereabouts of Mr Wickham. While we are doing that, gather your
friends and be prepared to watch the place. We will meet you back here,
gentlemen, in about an hour or so.”
*~*~*~*~*~*
Arriving at Mrs Younge’s guesthouse, both Mr Darcy and the Colonel gave her the
biggest shock in her life. She had hoped that she would never see either man
again. Showing them through to her parlour where they could talk privately, she
anxiously eyed both men to see if she could discover why they had called. As
both looked at her in an intimidating way, she nervously began speaking.
“What can I do for you, gentlemen? It has been a long time since we last met.”
She sat down on one of the two small chaises nearest the fireplace. The room
was small and light green in colour. The fireplace was small, but adequate for
the size of the room, above the fireplace was a small gilded mirror.
“You can tell us the whereabouts of George Wickham. Is he staying here in your
house? We are certain that you know where he is, and we need to see him
immediately.” As the Colonel was speaking, Mr Darcy silently stood watching her
every move and facial expression.
“I have not seen Mr Wickham for quite some time. The last I heard from him, he
was in the militia, and was stationed in some godforsaken place in
Hertfordshire,” Mrs Younge nervously replied. “Why do you want to see him?”
“Because he has thrown over the militia in Brighton leaving behind the usual
amount of debts and taking a young girl, the daughter of a gentleman, with him.
We are here on behalf of her family,” the Colonel replied.
Mr Darcy then walked over to the fireplace and sat in one of the chairs, still
observing her closely.
“I am sorry, but I cannot help you. How do I know that you will not do him harm
after what happened last year?” She said fidgeting with her handkerchief
nervously.
All of a sudden Mr Darcy rose. Towering over her, he said in a loud voice,
“Enough of your lies! If you do not tell us immediately where he is, I will
have the Runners here. I have not forgotten the items you took from my home.
Yes! Mrs Younge, I have retrieved those items from the pawnbroker and have his
testimony that it was you who pawned them. I will not hesitate to call the
Runners unless you are more cooperative. Wickham has a good friend in you, does
he not, or does he hold something else over you to make you help him?”
The Colonel looked directly at her to see her reaction to this information. Mrs
Younge paled. Noticing how Mr Darcy’s words affected her, they both knew that
he was right in his assumption.
She seemed very afraid of Wickham, so the Colonel said gently, “If you help us
find him, perhaps we may be able to keep him away from you. If not, we will let
him ruin you as he has many other people before. What does he hold over you
that makes you help him?”
Mrs Younge looked at them and saw that they were serious about helping her. She
replied softly, “He knows my husband. I left him a few years ago because of his
ill-treatment. I feared for my life so I changed my name. He threatened to
tell him where I was, so to buy his silence, I helped him out when he needed it.
If you will help me go abroad somewhere so that I will be safe from my husband,
I will help you. Mr Wickham is slowly draining me of all my savings.”
“Very well, you shall have a passage to America once we have Wickham,” Mr Darcy
said. “Now, tell us where is he residing and if the is girl is still with him?”
“He is residing in Sidney Street at The Three Feathers, and, yes, the girl was
still with him. I feel sorry for her. You could see that she was taken in by
him - so young as well,” she replied looking relieved.
“Thank you, Mrs Younge. If your information proves correct, I shall make sure
that you get your passage to America so I would begin packing if I were you. I
will send my man around later tomorrow with the ticket and a letter of
recommendation and credit to help you once you arrive there. My servant will
then help you with your departure. Do you wish to sell the boarding house? If
so, my attorney will sell it for you and forward the money to a reputable
attorney in New York,” Mr Darcy promised her. Seeing the relief on her face and
the way she nodded her agreement, he then made a note for the arrangements for
the sale to be dealt with once his servant had returned from helping her with
her departure.
With that, both Darcy and the Colonel left the boarding house and went back to
The Red Dragon, where Matthews and Fields were awaiting them with their friends.
After explaining that Wickham was to be found residing a few streets away,
money was given to the six men who were to keep watch overnight. Mr Darcy and
the Colonel then arranged to meet with Matthews and Fields the next day at about
ten o’clock with Mr Bennet.
To be continued...