“Go ahead Pericles, tell them everything,” he murmured as the door opened to reveal Elizabeth Bennet.
“Mr. Darcy, I had not expected you for some hours. Mr. Bingley tells me that the mare is for me to ride, but belongs to his sister”
“She is and does, but I believe that you and she will get along famously. Poor Artemis will enjoy having a rider that is a bit gentler.”
“Without a doubt. I have already been down to bribe her affection with a carrot. As my riding is much improved, perhaps soon we shall begin the shooting lessons?”
“So eager to be rid of me? Or do you wish to practice upon my person as a target?”
“That depends on whether or not you continue to amuse me,” Elizabeth replied with a wink.
“I shall endeavor to do so, but unfortunately your uncle has made a disturbing discovery in regards to George Wickham.”
“Will that man never leave us in peace?”
“I have often wondered the same, but as this matter concerns Charles as well as your family, I should like to have you and Jane present, but perhaps not your parents… At least not yet.”
“Oh dear, surely it cannot be as bad as what we have already witnessed.”
“I hope not, but only Charles can clarify that. I shall explain once we are gathered… alone.”
To this, Elizabeth showed no outward distress, but only patted his arm where her hand lay entwined. This gesture was a relief as Darcy felt the tension that had built since his meeting with Mr. Gardiner slowly melt. It was always thus in the presence of Elizabeth, especially when she teased him so. When with her, all other worries seemed insignificant. Unfortunately, he needed to speak with Charles immediately. After making pleasantries to Mrs. Bennet and Elizabeth’s younger sisters, they found Charles and Jane walking along the flagstone path of the shrubbery. It was a private, yet public place, where one could be seen but not heard. Coming upon them, their heads were bent in conversation of some amusement as the sounds of their laughter traveled across the greenery. It seemed sinful to disturb their bliss, but an answer must be had.
“Miss Bennet… Bingley… I must beg a bit of your time for a most pressing concern.”
Surprised by his tone, both Charles and Jane immediately paused their exchange and wore expressions of caution.
“What is it? Has something happened?”
“I don’t know, that is for you to say.”
“Whatever do you mean?” Bingley demanded. Never before had Darcy addressed him with a tone of accusation. The rift between them over his near loss of Jane had healed, but it was still a fresh scar.
“Mr. Gardiner has evidence to suggest that you financed George Wickham’s abduction of Lydia.”
“What! I would never have done such a thing, especially after his disreputable actions towards your own sister! By what means do you charge me with this?”
Jane Bennet, shocked by the revelation, had stood like a stone. Her happiness, once thought lost and now regained, could not survive another misery. It was only the strong shoulder of Elizabeth that prevented her collapse.
“Mr. Gardiner has witnessed a checque, for a thousand pounds made out to Wickham…signed by you. He took the money in cash, from your bank.”
“I never! This must be some sort of fraud upon my account. Believe me when I say that it was not me. Someone must have produced a forgery. I would not put such crimes beyond Wickham to do so.”
“I believe you.” Jane whispered.
“As do I,” added Elizabeth.
“Well then. All that needs doing is a visit to my bankers. This will be sorted out and charges made against him,” Charles said as he forced a smile.
This time, Jane nearly did faint. The impact of Lydia’s husband going to prison had not occurred to anyone else. It would be worse than having Lydia ruined. At least that could have been hidden, but prison sentencings were very public.
“No… it cannot happen,” Jane whimpered.
“Why ever not? A crime must not go unpunished,” Charles insisted.
“Then we cannot marry. Lydia’s disgrace will be ours.” Jane announced with a cry before turning and fleeing to the safety of the house. Elizabeth, of a far calmer mind, only shook her head in dismay.
“She is right. The Bennet family will be forever connected to a felon. It will be disastrous.”
“I am afraid that Charles may not be able to refuse. In seeking to clear his own name, an investigation will be conducted. It will be the bank that prosecutes the thief, not Charles,” Darcy explained.
“Then do as you must. Eventually, Jane will understand, but this is the second time you have broken her heart. She will not suffer it again. I will not allow it.”
Both men watched sadly as Elizabeth followed in her sister’s steps. It seemed that misery could not be escaped.
“I will not lose Jane again, not for Wickham… not for anyone. If you feel the same about Elizabeth, I suggest you assist me in finding a solution to this mess.”
Darcy nodded, but his face was grim. How had his happiness been destroyed again by George Wickham?
~Twenty-nine~
The next afternoon found Darcy and Bingley seated before the head clerk at Regency Bank. It was the financial establishment both families had utilized for years without incident. And this day was no exception.
“So, you see Mr. Bingley, no drafts have been made upon your account that you have not expressly authorized. Of what you claim, I cannot explain. Perhaps it was another banking institution?”
The thin, balding man fiddled nervously with his spectacles. Taking them off, only to replace them repeatedly. Accounts of the size belonging to these particular clients was not to be lost… for any reason. If there had been a mistake, it would mean his position, but Arthur Middlebury did not make mistakes of this magnitude. A thousand pounds was more than twice his salary.
“No, Mr. Gardiner was positive. The checque was presented for cash by George Wickham and clearly signed “C. Bingley”.
“Hmmm. Let me speak with my associate. Do excuse me for a moment.”
Darcy watched as the little man trotted away, taking the opportunity to sip his tea before it went cold. Something was amiss, and it did not bode well. He should hate to be forced to remove his accounts, but theft was not to be tolerated, nor was sloppiness by clerks employed as financial custodians.
In less than the time it took to drain his cup, the harried clerk reappeared with a young, very frightened apprentice. The young man held a small piece of paper. It was clearly the checque in question.
“I believe I have an answer to your query. Indeed, money was dispensed to a Mr. George Wickham, but it was not from your account. It was that of your sister… Miss Caroline Bingley. Is this not her signature?”
Charles examined the document closely, but it did not require any sort of intense study. The bold hand of his sister was clear.
“It does appear to be so, but I cannot imagine Caroline giving that man such a sum. Could it be a clever forgery?”
This time, Arthur Middlebury drew himself up to his full five feet and four-inch height. An air of righteous indignation altered his tone as he denied the possibility.
“Oh no sir, that is quite impossible. Our bank insists upon such things being done in person, to verify identity. Young Avery here can tell you himself.”
“Ah... yes. The lady was tall and handsome, with dark hair and a red cloak.”
“Is that all? Many ladies can be described so,” Darcy insisted.
“Indeed, what of her mannerisms? Did she wear anything personal that stood out? Something unique?” Bingley prodded.
“I… I don’t like to speak ill of anyone…especially a lady, but sir… she was not the kindest person. She kept muttering something about a person named Bennet… said terrible things that I cannot repeat. Oh… and she had the oddest pair of shoes. Not that I was looking at her inappropriately, but she kept raising her skirt to show them off… bright blue, with roses.”
<
br /> Charles sighed heavily, the urge to slam his fist in anger upon the clerk’s table was intense, but his family had caused enough trouble. Shoes of that description were all too familiar. He had been present when Caroline had bought them, gaudy things. And to have spoken poorly about the Bennet family? It had to be her. Rising, Charles offered his hand to each of the clerks, shaking them firmly.
“Thank you, gentlemen, I shall speak with my sister. This is now a family matter. I trust you will keep our meeting confidential?”
“As always sir, if there is anything else you require?”
“Not at the moment. I appreciate doing business with you.”
“Our pleasure.”
Leaving the bank, both Darcy and Bingley felt the need to imbibe strong spirits, but ever since Charles’ had resumed his courtship of Jane Bennet, nary a drop had crossed his lips. Instead, they choose a small pub, respectable, yet far from the fashionable business section of town to review the morning’s events.
“Why do you think she would do such a thing?” Charles asked with unrestrained anger.
“I can only imagine that it was an attempt to keep you from marrying Jane, but why Wickham? He is the most disreputable of persons. Caroline knows full well what he tried to do to Georgiana, yet supported it with Lydia.”
“I don’t know, right now I cannot think clearly. Is it wrong of me to hate my sister?”
“What will you do about it? I trust you will confront her?”
“As soon as we return. But it was her money. Although I have legal power as her brother, I have never touched a cent of what our father left to my sister. It is hers to do as she wishes, but that does not mean I will tolerate her interference or support her any longer. Caroline must leave Netherfield.”
“Will you tell Jane?”
“I don’t know. I hate to have secrets between us, but for now, I should like to keep it from her.”
*****
The journey back to Netherfield was conducted in silence as each man contemplated their futures. One was uncertain, while the other, harbored a smoldering rage. It was fortunate that the distance required some hours, allowing for cooler heads and rational thought. It was only the preening presence of the very sibling who threatened his happiness that caused a resurgence of ire. Although evening had fallen, it was still an hour before dinner. Entering the house, Charles expressed a desire to wash the dust of travel away before eating, but Darcy declined. Instead, he went directly to the small salon where Caroline sat playing a solitary card game.
“Oh, there you are. I did not hear you arrive… where is Charles?”
“He will be along shortly, but until then, I should like a word with you.”
“Is that so? Is there something of great importance you wish to ask of me?”
Caroline fluttered her eyes and folded her hands primly in her lap, turning so she faced him directly.
Darcy closed his eyes momentarily in an effort to restrain his thoughts. Did this idiot woman actually think he meant to propose? The idea made him nauseous, yet propelled his irritation.
“Yes, I do. Why did you give George Wickham a thousand pounds? What did you ask him to do?”
“I… I don’t know what you mean. Why would I do such a thing? Truly Darcy, have you gone mad?”
“Don’t lie Caroline…we know what you did. Answer him!”
Charles Bingley, clad in a fresh shirt and coat, stood in the open doorway with his arms folded. For the first time in her life, Caroline Bingley feared her baby brother. Feigning a tear, she sniffed heavily and looked down at her hands. This was a time when all her feminine wiles were needed.
“Well… if you must know… I did it for you… both of you. The Bennets will ruin your lives. I was simply trying to save you from your selves. Men have such passions, they lose reason only to regret it later.”
“Both of us? I don’t see how anything I do is a concern of yours.” Darcy demanded icily.
Now, Caroline stood and stared Darcy straight in the eyes. “Is it not? It was me who saved you from that trollop Esme Kirkwood. It was me who WILL save you from Eliza Bennet. Can you not see that we are far better suited?”
“We? Caroline, there is no WE, there never has been, and never will be. Well suited? What do you even know of such, is that all there is? What of love? Affection?”
“Love is for fools! I have position and means. I am not without beauty. I am accomplished and educated to manage a great household. I am just what you need… what Pemberley needs. You sister cannot manage such a place, it would have been better if she had…”
Caroline’s voice trailed, she had not meant to go so far, but now it was too late. Darcy’s countenance went from an irritated frown to pure rage in an instant as he lost his temper completely.
“Georgiana? You had a hand in that as well? I should have known! You and Wickham have been thick as thieves for years.”
“Don’t be silly, I hardly knew you then. Wickham wanted the Bennet girl. I just served as a sort of matchmaker.”
“In an attempt to ruin my Jane! Wickham would never have married Lydia if Darcy had not forced him.”
Until now, Charles had remained silent. Caroline had always been a selfish person, not caring who she hurt provided she got what she wanted, but no more.
“Caroline, listen to me carefully. It is only because you are my sister that I do not personally strangle you myself, but you will no longer interfere in my or anyone else’s life. While I am within the law to control your inheritance, I shall not do so. Its your money, and you may give it all away to whatever scoundrel you wish, but I will not be a part of it. Pack your things. Tomorrow you will leave Netherfield. Hopefully, Louisa will take you in, but from now on, you are on your own. Whatever accounts you run up, you must pay. Your keep, you must provide. I hope your twenty thousand… no… nineteen thousand pounds, is enough, for you will not see a cent from me.”
“But…but…you cannot! Darcy, tell him… I only did it to protect him…and you.”
“He can, and with my full approval. The sight of you sickens me.”
~Thirty~
A week after Caroline’s departure Elizabeth accompanied Jane to Netherfield shortly after breakfast. It had been a peaceful few days, despite the situation. Darcy had confided the details to her, but she had thought it prudent to keep it from Jane, telling her it was a simple mistake at the bank. With her mind happily focused on her impending wedding, all thoughts of unrest had vanished and her smile was infectious to all around. Since Charles was in the process of purchasing the estate, he had invited Jane to make what changes she desired before their wedding. Despite his regular residency, Mr. Bingley had yet to explore the house in its entirety. It was upon the mission of rectifying that deficit, that the sisters dressed for potentially messy occupations instead of more appropriate garb suited to formal visiting. If one had not known their identity, it could be assumed they were servants rather than future mistress and esteemed sibling. Arriving earlier than what was normal, the two alighted from the Longbourn carriage to discover that they were not the only persons to arrive at an unusual hour. The sight of a well-appointed carriage, bearing the crest of Rosings Park, caused Elizabeth to suck in her breath audibly.
“What could she possibly want badly enough to venture here at this hour?” she sighed.
“Who? Do you recognize that carriage?” Jane asked.
“Oh yes, it belongs to Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Darcy’s aunt. I hate to say this, but she is a real dragon. If she were not so ridiculous, I would be terrified of her, but in some ways, she is rather amusing. There is no subject she will not broach… as she is expert in all. I suppose we must demonstrate manners and greet her.”
“Must we? Perhaps we could simply slip in the servant’s entrance?”
“Absolutely not! You are to be mistress of this place in just a few weeks. She is a guest, so despite her title, you outrank her.”
To this announcement Jane giggled. It was still a
source of amazement that she was to be married to a man she loved, and who loved her in return. If only Elizabeth could be so happy. Jane had often observed the looks exchanged between her sister and Mr. Darcy. If she were a wagering lady, Jane would bet that they would make an announcement of their own before long. Gone was the man whom everyone had thought to be insufferably arrogant. In his place was the most kind and generous sort of gentleman. It had to be due to Elizabeth, but unfortunately, Jane’s sister had kept her own counsel. In their private conversations, Elizabeth had admitted to an admiration of Darcy, but had not dared mention love. It was no great secret that the two spent hours nearly every day in common company. Surely, they would marry? This pleasant thought allowed for a becoming smile to grace Jane’s features as they mounted the front steps and were admitted inside. However, instead of being directed to the main sitting room, they were met by a rather anxious Charles Bingley as he paced before the closed door to that very chamber. Barely muffled voices could be heard arguing from within.
“My apologies Jane… Elizabeth… but it appears we have an unexpected guest. And from her tone, she is in a rage. Poor Darcy has closeted himself inside to keep every servant from hearing, but I fear Lady Catherine’s voice carries considerably.”
“Oh, you need not explain. I am well acquainted with her. What is the purpose of such an early visit? Is there some sort of family emergency?” Elizabeth asked.
“According to Lady Catherine yes… apparently, she believes you and Darcy to be engaged.”
Charles colored slightly with this admittance. While he knew his friend to be enamored of Miss Bennet, no formal announcement had been made. And since she had refused him once, he dared not mention it, but this situation dire. Elizabeth’s mouth had dropped in surprise, but she had no opportunity to reply as the door to the sitting room suddenly opened to expose the source of the disturbance. Peering at Elizabeth through her monocle, Lady Catherine waggled a bejeweled finger in her direction.
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