Pride, Prejudice & Secrets (9 page)

Darcy shook his head apologetically. “Thank you for your assurance, but I forget my manners. Please, have a seat. Would you care for refreshments? Tea, perhaps? Or a glass of port?”

“I was having my tea when Lizzy’s express came, but the latter would do nicely. Thank you.”

Darcy nodded, went to the sideboard, and filled two glasses, though he suddenly wished for brandy rather than the milder port. He still felt shaken by his sudden worry, but it would not do to indulge in the stronger spirits so early in the day.

Another sudden thought struck him.
Elizabeth’s uncle is not as I envisioned. I fully expected a male version of her mother, all flutter and impropriety, but he is nothing like his sister. His manners are perfectly gentle, and his mind is observant; he discerned my concern for Elizabeth at once! And his dress is well tailored — neither flamboyant nor dandified.

Darcy returned to his seat after handing a glass to Mr. Gardiner, who took a small sip.

“Ah, very good, sir. An excellent bouquet.”

“It is French, I believe. One of my cousins commands a frigate and seized a French merchantman containing a quantity of this port. He sent me a case, which turned out to be quite palatable.”

“Well, the French do some things well, I suppose, even if they are the most odious people in other regards.”

“Too true, sir. Too true.”

Then, hesitating, he asked, “What, pray tell, is this urgent matter about Elizabeth’s travel? Are you aware of my agreement with her father to return her and her sister to Longbourn in my coach?”

“I am, Mr. Darcy. My brother mentioned it in his note, but Lizzy’s express contained a conflicting request, which is the reason I hurried to see you. After first telling me of her recovery, which was the first I knew of her illness, she asked if I might engage a carriage and convey her to London from her friend’s house. She apologized for the unexpected change in plans and — but perhaps it would be easier if you read it yourself.”

He pulled the folded note from his pocket and handed it to Darcy, who instantly recognized her clear, elegant penmanship:

Saturday, April 11
Hunsford Parsonage, Kent

Dear Uncle,
I apologize for the unexpected nature of this missive, and I assure you I am recovering splendidly from my recent illness. However, it has become necessary that I depart from here as soon as may be, and I beg that you come for me Monday and bring me to your home, where I hope to complete my recovery. Maria Lucas will remain, and separate arrangements will be made for her, so only I will be travelling. I do apologize for the hurried nature of this request since I know it will require that you engage a carriage. I assure you my departure is truly necessary. I will explain more fully when I see you.

Your loving niece,
Elizabeth

Darcy’s reaction was not at all what Mr. Gardiner expected; Darcy went suddenly pale, his handsome features twisted into a look of cold fury. He stood suddenly and turned to face the window; every aspect of his posture displayed a rigidity only partially held in check. Nonplussed, Mr. Gardiner sat silently in his seat, wondering what could have caused such a singular response. It was well over a minute before Darcy spoke, and his voice, absent of any discernible emotion, was clearly gripped in rigid self-control.

“Please excuse my sudden emotion, Mr. Gardiner. It was not, I assure you, due to anything concerning you, your family, nor especially your niece Miss Elizabeth.” He was silent another half minute then gave a deep sigh, turned back to his guest, picked up his port, and drained the glass. He then went to the sideboard and replenished it; while faced away from Mr. Gardiner, he comprehended that, no matter how he might prefer otherwise, he could not explain his anger of the moment except by revealing aspects of his family situation. The only other recourse would be to lie, and he refused to do so, especially when the man would eventually learn the truth from his niece.

Finally, Darcy spoke. “Have you ever heard it said, sir, that, while we are free to choose our friends, the same is not true of our family?”

“I have heard that, Mr. Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner said carefully.

Darcy nodded, then returned to his seat and sat silent for a few moments. “I have an aunt, sir, the sister to my late mother, and the two were very close, though their temperaments were diametrically opposite. I am afraid — in fact, I am virtually certain — that my aunt is responsible for your niece’s request for an early and hasty departure. She is not, I am mortified to say, in favour of my engagement. In fact, it seems that she and my mother planned from my infancy that I would marry my cousin, my aunt’s daughter, and thus join my estate to her own. From my present engagement, you will easily understand that such was never the wish of either my cousin or myself. Unfortunately, my aunt is not a temperate person. In fact, her manner is one of distinct, almost insulting, frankness. Almost certainly, she exerted pressure on her parson to force Miss Elizabeth to leave her parson’s house before the appointed time.”

Mr. Gardiner nodded gravely, for Darcy’s explanation did explain the missing intelligence in Lizzy’s note. He well understood the embarrassment to this young man of explaining such unflattering family traits; he was often mortified by his own sister’s behaviour. His understanding was intensified on finding that Darcy was not the proud, disdainful young man described by his niece. Since he found Darcy’s bearing and demeanour quite pleasing, he said soothingly, “Do not distress yourself over this matter, Mr. Darcy. I am well acquainted with the reality that one cannot be responsible for the actions of one’s relations.”

Darcy nodded silently, for he well understood the other man.
It is astonishing that this man can have a sister as foolish as Mrs. Bennet and be as sensible and polite a gentleman as one could wish to meet. On the other hand, if anyone could understand having to bear the burden of Aunt Catherine’s foolishness through the years, it is he.

“In any case, even if your aunt has manoeuvred for the early departure of Lizzy,” Mr. Gardiner said cheerfully, “it is of small importance compared to the other revelations of this week. Concerning which, allow me to offer the congratulations of both my wife and myself. We wish the two of you all happiness.”

“Thank you. Your niece is very…important to me. Very.”

“I saw the way you reacted when I carelessly aroused your concern, Mr. Darcy. As her uncle, I could not ask for a more fervent testimonial to your feelings.”

The smile left his face, and he leaned forward. “Now, the problem at hand is what to do about Lizzy’s express, and you can now understand why I came to see you. Despite what she says about feeling much better, I am not sure she should make the journey all the way to Longbourn.”

“Then you think it better to simply bring her back to your home?”

“It would seem to solve the problem of her need to leave as soon as possible and yet give her a chance to fully regain her health before returning to Longbourn.”

Darcy nodded. “I agree, though I still suggest the use of my coach. It is large enough to hold all of us, and it would avoid the need of a hired carriage. I could collect you at your home on Monday and — ”

The conversation was suddenly interrupted as the door was opened and Georgiana almost ran into the room, holding what appeared to be two or three pages of paper covered in her fine script.

“William, look, I have written a letter to Miss Elizabeth. Would it be proper for me to send it — ?”

She suddenly halted and coloured as both men stood and she realized her brother had a visitor.

“Oh, I am so sorry, I…” Her words seemed to catch in her throat, and her colour deepened to a bright red flush. Darcy was immediately out of his chair as he recognized she was on the verge of one of her attacks of self-consciousness and guilt. Those attacks began after the near disaster with Wickham and had continued for some months before dwindling away, but she was clearly gripped by a similar emotion at the moment. Darcy drew her into an embrace and then released her, turning toward his visitor.

“Yes, Georgie, we both know you should not burst into my study without warning, but I understand your excitement. Please do not worry about it. I assure you that we will not, especially since I would like to introduce Miss Elizabeth’s uncle, Mr. Edward Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner, this is my sister, Georgiana Darcy.”

“I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner said with a bow.

“V-very pleased to meet you, sir.” Georgiana’s voice was so soft that Mr. Gardiner had to strain to hear her.

“We were just discussing arrangements to fetch Miss Elizabeth back to her uncle’s house here in London on Monday next, Georgie. As I mentioned, she is visiting her friend, who is the wife of our aunt’s parson near Rosings. If you would give us a few minutes of privacy, I think we can quickly complete the arrangements.”

“Certainly,” Georgiana said meekly and started to leave the room. Then, she suddenly stopped and, seeming to find an unexpected measure of courage, turned back to her brother.

“Will…will you be going with Mr. Gardiner on this journey, William?” she asked, her voice stronger.

“Well, we have not yet — ” Darcy said.

“May I accompany you?”

Darcy looked at her blankly for a moment, surprised at her sudden burst of audacity.

“Please? I am exceedingly anxious to meet Miss Elizabeth.”

Darcy looked at Mr. Gardiner in perplexity; he only smiled and shrugged, indicating no opposition on his part.

“Well.” Darcy wondered whether he should agree to the impulsive request, but his pause was fatal, and the opportunity disappeared.

“Oh, thank you, William!” she exclaimed, rising to kiss his cheek.

“I am so pleased to meet you, Mr. Gardiner,” she said almost in the same breath, turning and giving him a quick curtsey.

“I will be ready whenever necessary on Monday,” she said gaily and almost skipped from the room, closing the door behind her.

Darcy stared at the door for a few moments, wondering what had urged Georgiana to this sudden and quite uncharacteristic burst of energy and boldness. Finally, he turned to face his visitor.

“I am not sure just how it happened, but it seems there will be three of us on the journey to retrieve your niece.”

“It does seem so, Mr. Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner said with an understanding smile. “Luckily, a coach large enough for three will also seat four, so you will not have to disappoint your sister.”

“I believe that possibility vanished while I tried to marshal my arguments,” was the bemused reply. “But never mind — I hoped that Elizabeth could help build Georgiana’s confidence, so perhaps she will not have as much to accomplish as I thought. But back to matters we
can
control: what time shall I call for you on Monday?”

Chapter 6

“Surprises are foolish things. The pleasure is not enhanced, and the inconvenience is often considerable.”

— Jane Austen, English author

Monday, April 13, 1812: Hunsford Parsonage, Kent

E
lizabeth was fastening the strap on her trunk when one of the maids came to her door. “My mistress bade me tell you a coach is just turning in the lane, ma’am.”

“Thank you. Would you please have my trunk brought downstairs?”

“At once, ma’am.” The maid gave a quick curtsey and departed.

Elizabeth took a quick look around the room before gathering her umbrella and shawl and descending the stairs, fastening her bonnet as she went. Downstairs, Charlotte waited by the door, almost dancing with excitement, and a single glance revealed why her friend sent the maid rather than coming herself. A coach was just stopping in the drive, and it was not the modest rented carriage she expected. Instead, it was a larger, sturdier coach, and Darcy alighted as she watched, letting down the steps himself and extending his hand inside.

A grey-liveried driver stepped down from the box, and two similarly clad footmen stood at the back. The coach itself was painted a glistening black with panes of glass to keep out the dust; it was well sprung with the new, elliptical springs. Surprisingly, considering its size, the coach was rather simple otherwise — not at all ornate. The door bore a small coat of arms as its only decoration; absent were the glittering gold leaf and other adornments often seen on the more magnificent coaches in town.

I expected something more like his aunt’s coach from such a proud man,
she thought, but her thoughts froze in consternation as a tall, well-formed young girl stepped to the ground.
Miss Darcy! Not only am I confronted by the proud and disdainful brother but also his equally proud sister!

She was relieved to see her uncle then emerge; he would be an anchor for her. But wonder claimed her again as Uncle Gardiner smiled cheerfully and exchanged a few words with Darcy and his sister before the whole party turned to the house. At first, she could not interpret her uncle’s easy converse with these people; then she realized it was due to his profession.

In trade, he cannot choose his customers as he can his friends. He must be well experienced in dealing with people with whom he feels little empathy, plus he does have the most agreeable disposition. In any event, I can only manage this disagreeable situation as best I can.

She had planned to discuss her “situation” with her uncle on the journey to London, and now she would have to feign polite conversation with two people not at all disposed to civil discourse.

Oh, well,
she thought crossly.
I shall simply have to wait until I get to my uncle’s house. Until then, I shall just have to…endure.

“See, Lizzy?” Charlotte said, excited for her friend. “Mr. Darcy came himself, and that must be his sister! Oh, what an honour to be introduced to her! He is supremely attentive; he will make you an admirable husband!”

Elizabeth most decidedly disagreed, but the time was not appropriate to express such sentiments, even were she so inclined. She was well used to keeping her own counsel; indeed, in a family with no male leadership, no female governance, and three foolish sisters, she had learned to make her own decisions. Though Jane was not at all foolish, she had such a favourable disposition that she was quite incapable of making the best choice among several unfavourable possibilities and was thus unable to offer much advice.

Darcy led the group and smiled warmly as he greeted her. That smile disturbed her; she had never seen him smile in such a way except possibly on the day he proposed, and her memory of that day was untrustworthy.

“Georgiana, may I present Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth, this is my sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy.”

Elizabeth gave a silent curtsey, watching to see how the other girl managed the greeting. Clearly, she would regard her brother’s marital choice with distaste, likely considering the connection as degrading in much the same manner as her friend Miss Bingley. Thus, Elizabeth coolly watched the girl’s lips tremble as she struggled for the appropriate words for this unpleasant occasion while she gave an awkward curtsey.

See?
Elizabeth thought, with her usual perceptiveness.
She cannot even meet my eyes; they are cast down so she does not even have to look on my disreputable form. She is just as Wickham described her
—

At that moment, her thoughts froze as Miss Darcy’s face crumpled, and she literally threw herself into Elizabeth’s arms, openly sobbing. Elizabeth reacted instinctively, her arms enfolding the girl just as she and Jane had so often comforted their younger sisters after a childhood disappointment or hurt.

With her mind completely disoriented and befuddled, she heard Georgiana say, through her tears, how happy she was to meet Elizabeth, how pleased she would be to be her sister, and how she looked forward to knowing her better. Elizabeth patted the younger girl’s back comfortingly, looking up at Darcy helplessly, only to receive another unexpected shock at the broad smile on his face. Actually, his smile was more than warm; it had satisfaction and pride in it, true, but the pride was not the disagreeable pride she expected. It seemed to be pride in
her
for her instant comforting of a beloved sister.

Miss Elizabeth Bennet was completely at sea, unable to swim and floundering as she grappled with these incomprehensible realities.

Where is the proud and disdainful girl Wickham described?
she thought dazedly.
Instead, this girl is apologizing for her tears, assuring me of her joy at being blessed with a sister, and even more overjoyed at her brother finding a wife to make him happy. What is happening here?

Finally, Georgiana drew away from Elizabeth, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief as Charlotte was introduced. She managed this greeting without histrionics, her manners perfectly gentle and polite. Every minute left Elizabeth more confused, and her discomposure was increased as Mr. Collins appeared. More introductions followed, and she awaited their end impatiently, for she needed to speak with her cousin and had not seen him since the day she took sick.

Elizabeth stepped forward. “Mr. Collins, I want to thank you for five pleasurable weeks visiting with Charlotte and for the kind attentions I have received. But I most especially want to thank you for taking my part when I was ill despite the risk to your situation. I dearly hope time may repair whatever damage may have been done to your relations with your patroness.”

Mr. Collins’s smile was somewhat uncertain, but his voice held more firmness than had heretofore been his wont. “I do thank you, Cousin, but I could do nothing else. You were my guest and far too unwell to travel. To do otherwise would have been a violation of my Christian duty.”

Elizabeth was conscious of Darcy beside her, and she looked up to see a puzzled expression on his brow.

“My cousin Collins did me a great service, Mr. Darcy, in undertaking to oppose Lady Catherine on my behalf. It was bravely done.”

“I do fear her ladyship was disposed to send you immediately to London in her carriage,” Mr. Collins said, rather uncomfortably. “Based on the intelligence Mr. Darcy’s physician gave my wife, I could not force you from my home.”

At that moment, Elizabeth saw a look of icy fury appear on Darcy’s face, a fury so intense she instinctively stepped back, dismayed and frightened by the elemental anger so displayed. She had never seen or even thought to behold such an emotion on this man’s face since he had always seemed like a man of supreme, icy reserve. It was the same expression seen by her uncle, though she could not know that, but it was not directed at her cousin since he looked past the man as he struggled to hold back some elemental rage…

Then it struck her forcefully that he was incensed on her behalf — and toward his aunt!

“I see,” he finally said, and the smile he displayed, though forced, seemed to relieve Mr. Collins greatly. Darcy’s words were flat as he continued, “I offer my thanks, sir, for your valuable assistance. I know how dependent a gentleman in your situation is on his patron. As Elizabeth said, it was bravely done; I know my aunt and her anger.”

He paused for a moment, then said, “I trust Mrs. Collins will inform Elizabeth of any harm you suffer as a result. I know my aunt is quite used to having her way, and if retaliation is made, I will ensure that any disruptions you suffer will be minimal and of short duration.”

“I…I thank you, Mr. Darcy.” Mr. Collins was nearly brought to tears by this unexpected offer of assistance.

“Think nothing of it,” Darcy replied, surprising Elizabeth yet again by clapping Mr. Collins on the shoulder. “I have influence in certain quarters, and I am sure another position could be found for you.”

Elizabeth now saw that her cousin was fully overcome by emotion; he could only bow repeatedly in appreciation.

“And now,” Darcy said briskly, almost rubbing his hands in satisfaction, “I see Elizabeth’s trunk is tied down, and we should get her out of the wind and under some blankets. So, if you would both excuse us, Mr. Collins, Mrs. Collins, we must be on our way.”

Charlotte was herself near tears as she embraced Elizabeth, either from gratitude towards Darcy or due to the loss of her friend. But it was only moments before Darcy assisted first Elizabeth and then his sister into the coach. As soon as she was seated, Georgiana pulled blankets from under the seat and, ignoring Elizabeth’s protests that such solicitude was unnecessary, busied herself tucking them over and around Elizabeth.

“Your uncle told us of your refusal to be sick,” she said, her manner now easy and friendly. “He warned us you would protest against any ministrations, and I have decided we should take no chances. You are much too important to my brother to hazard any difficulties in your recovery.”

Elizabeth smiled weakly at this further evidence that Mr. Wickham’s description of Darcy’s sister was completely defective. Miss Darcy appeared to have not the slightest degree of hauteur or conceit to her nature. Sense and good-humour were written on her features, and Elizabeth had already observed her excellent manners.

Charlotte was not disposed to find Wickham agreeable,
she remembered uncomfortably. S
he warned me not to allow my fancy for Wickham to make me appear unpleasant in the eyes of a man of ten times his consequence. Wise Charlotte! Belatedly, I see that she was not referring to Darcy’s income. She was making reference to Wickham’s character in comparison to Darcy’s. It is mortifying to remember my pride at my discernment! Foolish girl!

Other thoughts flooded her mind in a torrent.

Even though I thought badly of Darcy, I did not think him dishonourable or dishonest. His words cause affronts, but I have never seen him lie, while it is clear Wickham has done just that. There is no other explanation. To disparage this excellent young girl attending to me so solicitously is a base falsehood impossible to forgive. He lied to me about her! What other lies did he tell?

Elizabeth had no answers at the moment and settled back with Georgiana at her side as Darcy and her uncle boarded and settled opposite them. Uncle Gardiner cocked his eyebrow at her, smiling indulgently, as Georgiana intertwined her arm with Elizabeth’s, her gloved hand clasping that of the young lady she thought to be her future sister.

Here is another strand binding me,
Elizabeth thought in bleak consternation and then looked over to find Darcy smiling at her with almost exactly the same expression as her uncle.
Oh heavens above — what am I going to do? I cannot bear the thought of bringing disappointment to this fragile girl clutching my hand, and now I find myself feeling the same reluctance regarding her brother! This is almost more than I can bear! Shall I allow myself to be sucked into the mistake of a lifetime because of my own lack of resolution?

She had no opportunity for further reflections as her uncle insistently inquired of her health.

“I feel almost completely recovered, Uncle,” she replied to his serious enquiry. “Charlotte told me my fever is gone, as is the headache and sore throat. I still feel tired, but I am relieved to be leaving. The last several days were difficult though I felt better each day.”

“I can well believe it.” Darcy strived to control the fury that still threatened to overwhelm him at the thought that his aunt — his mother’s very sister! — could have coldly and insensitively forced the woman he loved to travel while she was ill!

She could have died!
he thought, seized by rage and striving to force his face into placid lines — and failing miserably.

“Do not be overly angry at your aunt, Mr. Darcy,” Elizabeth said, alarmed at the implacable rage and menace he could not hide. “I am sure she did not believe I would suffer any harm if I departed.”

Clearly, this man is loyal beyond measure to those he treasures,
she thought,
and, however uncomfortable I feel at being placed into that category, that is what he believes. That is one reason to end this engagement; I do not wish to be responsible for a fracture of his family.

“That comment sounds more like Jane than you, Lizzy,” said Mr. Gardiner. “But I am greatly relieved that your cousin delayed your departure.”

“I would have asked you to come on Sunday, but I thought it might be difficult to engage a carriage. Of course” — she glanced at Darcy — “I sent my express before learning of Mr. Darcy’s plan to convey me home.”

“In light of your illness, we thought it best not to undertake the return to Longbourn for a few days. Jane is very happy for you, naturally, but she told me quite firmly that she intends to learn all the details of your engagement. I may be able to give you a day’s grace, but no longer, so be prepared.”

He did not mention Jane’s surprise and confusion, though she had stated that her sister must have good and sufficient reason to accept a man she had heretofore despised. However, given that Lizzy’s letters scarcely mentioned Darcy, Jane was quite prepared to keep her sister awake as long as necessary to learn all.