Saving Elizabeth Bennet

by Melanie Schertz

  “Unfortunately, society turns a blind eye most of the time. But, it has the potential of turning into quite the scandal. As Mr Bingley suggested to me, as I was leaving, my business could suffer if Armstrong wishes to blacken Lizzy’s reputation and harm her family in the process. The further we can distance ourselves from her in appearance, the less damage can be done.”

  “I would like nothing better than to take a branding iron to the likes of that scoundrel. This entire situation, I just do not like it one bit.”

  “Now, now, Helen, calm yourself. Mr Johnston is seeing to Lizzy’s care, Miss Darcy has become friends with our dear girl, and she is well hidden for the moment. Once this is all over, and Jane is stronger, perhaps you and the girls could take a holiday to the sea. The sea air and waters would be beneficial to our dear nieces after all they have been through.”

  “That would be pleasant, Edward. If we can survive the next months, then a holiday would be appreciated by all of us.”

  ~~ ** ~~ An express arrived from London for Darcy. His uncle was beside himself at the news of Mr Armstrong’s misdeeds, as Lord Matlock declared it.

  Fitzwilliam, It appears our friend, Armstrong, could not behave himself and has become embroiled in scandal. What are we to do? I have already invested heavily with his venture and would lose far more than I could afford if the entire incident is not hushed quickly. Damn Armstrong, coming on too strong with his daughter’s companion, these things happen but it should be handled discreetly. The chit most likely led him on, wishing to earn more money. Your arrival in Town cannot be soon enough. I am in desperate need of your advice on how we can come out of this matter unscathed. Send word as to when you will be here. Your uncle, Henry Fitzwilliam, Lord Matlock

  Darcy shook his head. This sort of scandal happens frequently amongst the wealthy, but once written in the papers, would take on a life of its own. Picking up his pen, he dipped it into the ink well and wrote a letter to his uncle, stating he would leave for London the following day. The journey from Pemberley to London regularly took two full days, so he informed his uncle he would call on him at Matlock House on Friday.

  Once the express rider was off with his reply, Darcy thought back on his sister’s letter. Could the two incidents be one and the same? Could the young lady, Miss Benson, Bingley rescued be the young lady Armstrong injured? The last he heard from his sister was that the young lady’s family had been located and arrangements were being made to move here from Darcy House. Bingley had business dealings with Armstrong, though he had begun to invest less with the man over the past two years. It was due to an uneasy feeling Darcy had from watching Bingley withdraw from Armstrong which prompted him to pursue a meeting with Edward Gardiner. From the reports that had come to Darcy of Mr Gardiner, he felt sure that the man was honorable and respectable in his private life and in his professional life. Well, I had best get some sleep. I will know more of what is happening in a few days, and there is nothing I can do until then.

  ~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~ Chapter 4 “Sir, there is a Mr Gardiner here to see you.” The butler announced to his master, Lord Bentley. “I do not recall the name. Did he state his purpose for calling?”

  “It is the situation with Mr Armstrong.” The butler replied. “Very well, send him in.” Lord Bentley declared, sitting back in his chair. He had been at his desk for more than an hour, pouring over his books. As Mr Gardiner entered the room, Lord Bentley stood. “Welcome, Mr Gardiner. Please, take a seat. Might I inquire your reason for visiting me?”

  “The young lady who was assaulted by Mr Armstrong is my niece.” Mr Gardiner declared. “And the name you were given was incorrect. Her name is not Miss Benson, but Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Her mother was my sister.”

  “Ah, and you are here to speak to me in favor of charges being brought against that scoundrel, I suppose.” Mr Gardiner shook his head. “We are greatly concerned for my niece’s safety, as well as her reputation. Though it was not her fault, she is the one who will be deemed ruined by society’s standards. Fortunately, he did not succeed in his intended deed, and her virtue was not taken from her.”

  “It is quite disturbing. I saw for myself the injuries sustained by your niece. I was enraged at the thought of a man treating a young lady in such a manner. Unfortunately, it is not the first time such has happened in our society. But it is time for it to end. It is high time men are not afraid to stand their ground to their neighbors and tell them when they are being improper. Mr Bingley was brave in his behavior. First he rescued your niece from the beating, removing her from the scoundrel’s house, and then called the constable. Bingley has been in business with Armstrong, though now he will suffer for his interference.”

  “Mr Bingley has informed me he had been withdrawing from his dealings with Armstrong over the past two years. He felt the man could not be trusted, and wished to put distance between himself and someone with no morals.”

  “Good man. And he is friends with Fitzwilliam Darcy, which is another mark in his favor. Anyone who can boast of being close friends of Mr Darcy are truly to be respected.” Lord Bentley endorsed. “But I am gathering that you are concerned with your niece’s reputation and safety.”

  “I am, sir. My wife and I feel as if Lizzy will suffer far more than Mr Armstrong from this situation. If pushed, I have no doubt that Armstrong will inform the world of Lizzy’s name, as well as paint her as a harlot. Society prefers to ignore such behaviors of the rich, so it would be easily believed that Lizzy came on to Armstrong, and that he was fighting off her advances.”

  “What would you suggest we do to punish the man? He has friends in high places, including Lord Matlock. They have too much invested with Armstrong to wish his name blackened. I am more than willing to press the charges against him, as I wish to set an example for the sort of men who would treat young ladies in such a manner, though I know from experience, nothing will come against

  Armstrong. He can claim any number of reasons for her injuries, and though everyone knows the truth, it would be a rare man who will stand against such a man.”

  “We have not thought of a fitting punishment for him.” Mr Gardiner said. “I would call him out, challenge him for the honor of my niece, but I am not a swordsman, nor any good at pistols. It would do no good for my family by my being killed.”

  “And, even if you prevailed, there is a chance of imprisonment, which would also be detrimental to your family.” Lord Bentley nodded. “I wish we could find a solution. When I saw the injuries inflicted by that man on your niece, I nearly retched.”

  “When I first spoke to Mr Bingley, he had no notion that the young lady was Elizabeth. He knew Elizabeth and her family when he leased the estate next to her father’s, just last fall.”

  “Her father is a gentleman?” Mr Gardiner nodded his head. “He was, the sixth generation to own Longbourn. Mr Bennet, his wife, and their youngest daughter were killed by highwaymen, and their eldest daughter was wounded horribly. Our family is suffering from so much violence being heaped upon us.”

  “You have my deepest sympathies, Mr Gardiner. And now, to have another burden added to your suffering. For the time being, I will keep from charging Armstrong. And if your niece requires anything, please, come to me. The reason I feel so strongly against the violence men mete out to women is personal. My daughter was beaten by her husband daily. She died, while she was with child, with my first and only grandchild. Supposedly she fell down a flight of stairs, though no servant had seen her near the stairs, including when her husband supposedly found her and carried her up to her room. I desperately wished she leave him, I could have sent her off, where she would have been safe. But my daughter always believed his lies, when he would beg her forgiveness and promise it would never happen again.”

  “Some men are filled with evil. Mr Armstrong is definitely an evil one.” Mr Gardiner stood, holding out his hand to the gentleman before him. “It is an honor to meet a good and decent man, Lord Bentley.”

  “I am pleased Mi
ss Bennet has people to love and care for her through this terrible time.” Lord Bentley shook the proffered hand.

  ~~ ** ~~ “I believe it would be wise if I were not seen leaving with you.” Bingley stated. “I have heard a few whispers that Armstrong is attempting to find Elizabeth, and I am certain he is having me watched. Coming here, it will not take long before Armstrong’s men realize she is here, or follow you to my aunt’s townhouse.”

  “Should we remove Lizzy from Town?” Mr Gardiner asked. “My wife and I had spoken of taking my nieces to the sea.”

  “Miss Elizabeth is not strong enough yet for such a journey.” Mr Johnston announced. “In a fortnight, perhaps, but not as yet. And your eldest niece, Miss Bennet, she is not able to survive such a journey.”

  Bingley’s throat became tight at the description of Jane’s health. He had insisted on having Jane tended by Mr Johnston. Still in love with Jane, Bingley’s heart was torn apart with pain and grief for his angel.

  Mr Gardiner continued to speak. “So, we will have the two footmen, a maid, and two guards escort Lizzy to the townhouse? Do you think Armstrong will have me followed?”

  “It would not surprise me, Mr Gardiner. With his bragging at his club, and lying to Lord Bentley as to what happened, Armstrong has placed himself in a vulnerable position. Men, such as he, can become violent when pushed into a corner.”

  “And if there is a possibility of charges being brought against him, he will wish to eliminate the danger.” Mr Johnston nodded. “Having witnessed his handiwork, I do not wish to underestimate him.”

  “We will move her tonight, after dark. It will be safer for her.” Bingley stated. “I have hired a cook, a nurse, maids, a butler and three footmen, as well as four guards. The guards are former army soldiers, who come highly recommended by Darcy’s cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. The good Colonel has even volunteered his services in moving Miss Elizabeth, if we wish.”

  “To be honest, I would appreciate every measure we can provide to protect my niece. Knowing she is so vulnerable in a carriage, along a darkened street, I shudder. Perhaps it is due to my sister and her family being murdered in their carriage which sparks this fear.”

  “If I had been through all you have, Gardiner, I would have as many armed guards as I could find to escort my loved one.” Mr Johnston said softly. “The colonel was planning to visit Miss Darcy today, and it can be discussed at that time.”

  ~~ ** ~~ Walking past his father’s study, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam heard his father cursing inside. Listening for a moment, he finally decided to inquire as to what was causing Lord Matlock such frustration.

  Hearing his father respond to enter, after Richard knocked, making his way inside the room. “Father, is all well? I could hear you as I passed by.”

  “Damn Armstrong has got all the men entertained with tales of his daughter’s companion. The young lady was said to be gentle born, and now she will be in disgrace, even if half of what the man brags is true. The man proves the fact that those in trade should not attempt to rise in society. It is one thing to commit such behavior, but quite another to brag openly about it. Did the man learn nothing from Albert Billingham’s situation? From his bragging, he did nearly the same as Armstrong, and then he had a sudden and mysterious death. No one can say for certain, but it is believed the young lady’s family had a hand in his death.”

  “They never proved Miss Lawson’s family had anything to do with Billingham’s death. And, to be honest, I would have no difficulties in dispatching a man who had done such to my sister or cousin. The young lady died in childbirth, so his bragging was shown to have happened. I heard rumors that Armstrong is blustering, due to being interrupted before anything could happen.”

  “Well, fortunately, your sister is safely married and your cousins are safe from such men. My main concern is what all Armstrong’s bragging will do to his business. We have too much invested in his ventures. We would never survive if he were to be ruined businesswise. Does he not realize the repercussions of admitting such vile behavior? The girl’s family could demand compensation for ruining her reputation. Scandal is already taking form, and if it is not silenced quickly, we will be ruined alongside him.” Lord Matlock motioned for his second born son to pour him another glass of port.

  Bringing the decanter and another glass to his father’s desk, Richard poured a glass for himself, after refilling his father’s. “Is there a way of speaking to the young lady, pay her to leave Town and keep silent? I am sure, if she were lowered to a point of having to find employment, she could be paid to keep quiet.”

  “If only I had enough to do so. Your brother’s gambling has nearly made our coffers bare.” “You cannot be serious.” Richard was outraged. “Anthony had a problem, but, has it really grown so bad? What will you do?”

  “Your brother is drinking rather heavily of late. When he is in his cups, Anthony goes through money as if it were tea leaves. His promissory notes are continuously stacking up, and I have paid many of them off already.”

  “Father, you need to put your foot down with my brother. He is not the only one that will suffer from his behavior.” Richard poured another glass for himself.

  “Easier said than done, my dear boy. Easier said than done.”

  ~~ ** ~~ “Richard, I am pleased to see you.” Georgiana declared as she embraced her cousin. “I have missed you, Cousin.”

  “I have missed you as well, Poppet. What have you been up to while your brother and I were away? Parties every night and young men lined up around the block to pay call on you?”

  “You are quite silly, Richard.” Taking her cousin by the hand, she pulled him to the sofa in the music room. “I have been busy though. Mr Bingley said that he spoke to you of the need for guards.”

  Richard’s brow creased. “The guards are not to protect you from someone, are they? Has something happened that you are not telling me? Bingley did not tell me what the guards were for, and I did not ask him any details.”

  “Calm yourself, Richard. The guards are to protect Miss Elizabeth. I am not sure if you have heard the talk about town. The news of Mr Armstrong, of his attack of a young lady who was his daughter’s companion.” Seeing him nod, Georgiana continued. “Mr Bingley was the one who heard the assault and forced it to end. He took Miss Elizabeth from the Armstrong’s house and brought her here, as his sisters were out of Town. I allowed her to remain here, as she was in dire need of medical treatment. Her injuries were severe, it makes me cry to think of how horribly she was beaten. She was so badly injured, Mr Bingley did not even recognize her.”

  “Bingley knows the young lady?” “So does Brother. Remember last fall, when he stayed at Mr Bingley’s estate in Hertfordshire? Miss Elizabeth’s father owned the estate next to Mr Bingley’s.”

  “Miss Elizabeth Bennet? I remember William writing about her in his letters. And Bingley was in love with the eldest sister.”

  Georgiana nodded her head. “So you can imagine the shock it was to learn who she was, and not being able to recognize her.”

  “Why did she not tell you and Bingley who she was?” Richard was concerned. “Oh, Richard, her injuries were awful. Her throat had impressions of fingers bruised into her skin from his grip, he squeezed so hard. Her jaw was injured, Mr Johnston thought it possibly broken, and both of her eyes swollen shut. She also had an injured hand, scrapes and bruising all over her body.” Wiping a tear which had escaped her eyes, Georgiana looked away. “She is only now beginning to improve, and it has been nearly a fortnight since she was brought here. Mr Johnston has been here daily, tending to her care. And Mr Bingley has Mr Johnston tending to Miss Bennet’s injuries as well, at their uncle’s home in Cheapside.”

  “What happened to Miss Bennet?” Richard frowned. He had not heard of another young lady being involved in the assault.

  “It is a sad story indeed.” Georgiana went on to tell of the highwaymen attacking the Bennet family and Jane’s injury. “So, you can see, Miss Elizabeth
had nowhere to go. At her uncle’s home, she shares a room with Miss Bennet. Miss Elizabeth was fearful of her sister’s reaction, not to mention the taint which would be attached to Lizzy if Mr Armstrong were to announce her name to everyone. Miss Elizabeth does not wish for her family to suffer if her reputation is ruined by all of this.”

  Richard stood and began to pace. “My father has business dealings with Armstrong, he spoke of the incident just this afternoon. It would not take much for Armstrong to turn this entire situation into a scandal of outrageous proportions. Have you informed your brother what has been happening here?”

  “I wrote to him the day after Miss Elizabeth was brought here, but we did not know her name at that time. I felt it would be better if I waited until he had returned before informing him of her identity.”

  “That is probably wise. And Bingley needed the guards to watch over Miss Elizabeth?” “Yes. They are moving her tonight to a different townhouse. Mr Bingley’s aunt has a house, near here, to which he is to oversee repairs being made to. It will be safer for her, as Mr Bingley has heard that Mr Armstrong has hired people to find Lizzy.”

  “You seem fond of her. How do you know if she had not tried to compromise him into making her an offer? It would not be unheard of for a servant to make such an attempt to gain funds. If this young lady is in such a dire situation, it could be possible.”

  “Richard Fitzwilliam, you should be ashamed of yourself. Even if she led him on, no man has the right to beat a lady, especially as severely as Mr Armstrong did Miss Elizabeth. He nearly killed her. And I overheard Mr Johnston telling Lizzy’s uncle that if Mr Bingley had not intervened when he did, he is certain Lizzy would have been…would have…I cannot say, for it is too horrible.”

  Colonel Fitzwilliam knelt at his cousin’s feet. “Forgive me, Georgie. I meant no disrespect. It is not unheard of for young ladies who are desperate for security to find a way to force a man into marriage. But you are correct. No man should beat a lady so severely.”