The past days, Elizabeth had had plenty of time to think of the events which had taken place. She had not even had proper time to mourn her parents and youngest sister, and then the assault from her employer. Anger built inside her towards the men who had taken so much away from her. The highwaymen who killed her loved ones and left her dearest sister crippled. Mr Armstrong who had nearly killed her, and now, kept her from being with her family. She was denied the comfort and compassion she would have received from her aunt and uncle, her remaining sisters, and even her young cousins. Men such as Mr Armstrong and those who killed her family were takers, with no regards to anyone else.
Her mind wandered back to the letter from Mr Darcy. Here is a fine example of a man who is giving and kind. I was such a fool to think him so arrogant and too proud to lower himself to associate with those beneath him. Oh, Lizzy, you have always prided yourself on being a good judge of character. You have much to learn. So very much to learn.
~~ ** ~~
Slamming a hand on the desk in front of him, Armstrong shouted for his footman to enter. “I have
been waiting for news from Lord Matlock. As soon as he arrives, show him to my study.” “Y…Y…Yes S…Sir.” The young man stuttered. If he had not been desperate for a job, he would have left the employ of the Armstrong family long before.
As the footman left the study, Lucy Armstrong entered her father’s study. “Father, I have heard the most distressing news. While I was at Miss Fairchild’s today, her mother was speaking of Miss Elizabeth, saying she was beaten severely by you. I told her that it was untrue, that Miss Elizabeth left our home after she attempted to seduce you. But Mrs Fairchild said she heard the news from Mr Bingley himself. She stated that Mr Bingley interrupted your beating Miss Elizabeth, and that you were beating her due to her refusing you. It distressed me so much, I came directly home. How can they spread such lies about you? It is not fair that our good name is made to suffer while Miss Elizabeth is thought to be innocent.”
“Dear girl, such things happen in life. I wish it were different, but my salvation is that you believe me and Miss Elizabeth was unable to cause you any harm. It is my belief Mr Bingley was jealous, wishing to have Miss Elizabeth for himself. When he saw that she had tried to seduce me, he must have lost control of himself and beat her. That is the only way I can imagine that she was injured.” Armstrong wrapped his arms about his daughter.
“But, Father, the worst of it is that Mr Fairchild told his wife that he overheard you at the club, bragging of how you had…had…oh, Father, why are they telling such lies? You would never brag of behaving so poorly. It is all lies.”
“I cannot imagine why the Fairchild family has turned against us. We have been friends in the past. Why, you and Miss Fairchild practically grew up together. My poor, dear girl. I will speak with Mr Fairchild, and correct this misunderstanding. Have no fear, my girl. Perhaps you should take a holiday. You have been asking to journey to Sussex to visit your aunt. This might be the perfect time to do just that.”
“I could not leave you alone, with all that is being said about you. I must remain here, at your side. If I were to leave, people would believe that the lies are true and I was ashamed of you.”
“You are too good to me, Lucy. I do not deserve your kindness.” Armstrong placed a kiss on his daughter’s forehead. “Now, I am waiting for Lord Matlock, as we have business to conduct. Tonight, I will take you to the theater. When people see we are not hiding, they will believe in the truth of the situation soon enough.”
“I look forward to spending time with you, Father.” Lucy made her way to the door, as Lord Matlock arrived.
“Come in Lord Matlock, Father is waiting for you.” She said as she stepped past him. Once the door was closed, Lord Matlock stepped closer to the desk. “I am afraid I have not had any success in learning the whereabouts of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. My son has said nothing, and my nephew has been quiet as well. Bingley is hard to find at the moment, as it appears he is spending time working with a Mr Gardiner.”
“Mr Gardiner is the uncle of Miss Elizabeth. He lives in Cheapside, on Gracechurch Street, and has a warehouse a block away. Dangerous location, many things can happen in that neighborhood.”
“What do you mean?” Lord Matlock was nervous. “I believe an accident may happen to either Mr Bingley or Mr Gardiner. Or, perhaps, Mrs Gardiner and her children will meet with an accident. One may never know what could happen in such a location.” Armstrong had no emotion as he spoke. “If her family is under attack, it would be natural for Miss Elizabeth to wish to reveal herself to protect them.”
“Sir, it is terrible enough to think of causing harm to a young lady, but to harm her loved ones, especially children, to draw her out, I think you ask far too much of me. I am doing all I can to find Miss Elizabeth, I never agreed to bring harm to anyone.”
“You will do as I tell you, if you wish to protect your heir. If you do not do as I instruct, you will be left with only the spare. Do you understand me?” Armstrong leaned forward, placing his hands on his desk as he raised himself up. “I am through waiting around. My daughter was humiliated today when she heard disparaging comments made against me. Whether or not they are true matters not. I will not have my daughter humiliated. Miss Elizabeth Bennet must be dealt with quickly, and done so in a manner which will exonerate me from these allegations.”
“It will take me at least a week to learn more. I promise you, I will learn all I can to find Miss Bennet, if you give me another week.”
“I will give you until Friday, four days from now. If you do not return here with the information I require by then, you will feel my wrath.”
Lord Matlock swallowed hard. “You have my word, I will learn of her location by Friday. There will be no need for your wrath.”
“Very well. Now, leave me.” Not wishing to remain any longer in Armstrong’s presence, Lord Matlock quickly left the study as well as the Armstrong house. He signaled his driver to take him home and settled into the comfortable seat of his carriage. “What have I gotten myself into? And just what am I to do about it?”
~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~
Chapter 7 Darcy escorted his sister into their box at the theater. Joining them were Colonel Fitzwilliam and Charles Bingley, who was in need of some cheering up. He had spent many hours of late with the Gardiner family and was saddened to see his beloved angel in such low spirits. Bingley had seen her several times, having dined with the Gardiners twice, and paid visits nearly every day for the past fortnight.
It was clear to everyone that Jane Bennet was not pleased with being forced into the new routine. Though Bingley knew it was for her own good, he was pained by the displeasure it brought her. Mrs Gardiner had borne the brunt of Jane’s frustrations, never allowing her niece to dissuade her from continuing forward. Mr Johnston was pleased with the improvement he could see in his patient, and Jane appeared, at least to everyone else, to be stronger.
Darcy was also frustrated. To know that Elizabeth was in danger, and so near, yet he had not seen her even once, was driving him to distraction. Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam realized the true reason for Darcy’s dark mood. Georgiana had even thought to suggest to her brother that he accompany her to visit Elizabeth in a few days.
The first act of the play was over soon enough, and Darcy suggested they make their way to find refreshments in the lobby. As they approached to purchase drinks, they were to encounter none other than Mr Armstrong and his daughter.
Bingley turned red, his mind instantly returning to his last encounter with the man. Seeing his friend becoming uncommonly angry, Darcy turned his attention in the direction Bingley was glaring. Colonel Fitzwilliam realized what was happening, and moved to take hold of his cousin’s arm, holding him in place.
“Darce, this is not the time or place to confront him. It will do no good.” Richard whispered to his cousin.
Georgiana was frightened by the fury which was building in her brother and his friend. She
took hold of Bingley’s arm, and spoke softly. “Mr Bingley, would you care for a glass of punch or lemonade?”
Reality settled in on Bingley and he realized he was in a public location. Turning his head to look at the young girl, Bingley gave her a halfhearted smile. “Punch would be wonderful, Miss Darcy. Thank you for asking me.”
Bingley was shocked to see how furious his friend was. He had not come to realize Darcy’s affection for Elizabeth Bennet, therefore, he had no way of knowing the level of Darcy’s anger was even greater than his own.
Seething at the sight of the young man who had brought on his current aggravation, Armstrong could not allow the moment to pass by peacefully. “Ah, Bingley, such a pleasure to see you again. The last time you were near me, you brought shame to your family’s name.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam knew there was true danger building. He pulled Bingley backwards and stepped between him and Armstrong. “Sir, I believe it would be wise for you to return to your seats and drop this matter for the time being. This is not the appropriate location for such a conversation. I would not wish your daughter to be embarrassed by what she would learn of you.”
“You had best stay out of this matter, Colonel. Before you stick your nose into this situation, you had best speak with your father to learn his opinion on which side of this war you should throw your hat.”
“My father and I do not agree in our opinions frequently. I know the truth of the matter and I am here to say, there will be no battle here. As I stated, I would not wish to see your daughter embarrassed.”
“My daughter has already been humiliated by the lies being spread by this whelp. His allegations have no truth to them, yet he continues to inform the world. What a pathetic fool, too jealous over seeing his favorite with another man. He most likely beat her himself and puts the blame off on me.”
Darcy’s anger could no longer be contained. “You are a scoundrel and should be brought down for your treatment of such a fine young lady. You attempt to force yourself on her and then lie when you are found out. Elizabeth was nearly killed at your hand. If Bingley had not stepped in, you would be facing murder charges. And I would have seen to it that you hanged for it. I pity your daughter, having a monster for a father.”
“You had best speak to your uncle before you address me in such a manner, Darcy. It would be better for you and your cousin to denounce your friendship with Bingley. It might be dangerous to remain friends with him.”
“Is that a threat?” Colonel Fitzwilliam drew himself to his full stature and commanding officer stance. “For if that is a threat, we had best take this matter outside. I, for one, would love to repay you for the injuries I witnessed on the young lady in question.” The colonel turned his face towards his cousin. “Darce, we need to remove Georgiana from here, immediately.”
Richard’s words had the desired result. Darcy turned his attention to his sister, who was still holding tightly to Bingley’s arm. “Georgiana, Bingley, my cousin is correct. Let us leave, as I could not remain in such close proximity to such rubbish as they allow in this building.”
As the others made their way to the entrance doors, Richard returned his gaze to Armstrong. “Do not provoke my cousin again, for he is not one to back down from protecting those he deems to be friends and family. Bingley and Miss Bennet are among those close to him. And, I might add, my cousin is very talented with a blade and a top notch marksman. You start something, it will not end the way you wish.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam then followed his companions outside, waiting for their carriage to be brought up for them. “It appears we need to have a discussion with my father, sooner rather than later.”
~~ ** ~~ Returning home, Armstrong was fuming from the confrontation which he had provoked. He wished nothing more than to squash the young pup, Bingley, and teach his friend that it was not wise to back such a man. How dare they speak to me, in front of my daughter, and in public? I will ruin them both.
Pouring himself a glass of port, Armstrong walked over to the fireplace in his study. Staring at the crackling fire, he thought back at the encounter and what was said. Darcy referred to her as Elizabeth. Not Miss Elizabeth or Miss Bennet, but Elizabeth. Does he hold a tender regard for her? Could the Master of Pemberley be in love with the lowly paid companion who now had a ruined reputation? Lord Matlock would be highly disappointed in his nephew, as he would never approve of such a low born woman to be his niece. She would be acceptable as Darcy’s mistress, but not his wife. Perhaps I should change my plans, and
concentrate on Fitzwilliam Darcy rather than Bingley. It would also increase Lord Matlock’s desire to assist in finding the whore.
Once I have her, what should I do with her? Should I kill her outright or should I have her taken to my other house, locked away, for my private
entertainment? She is a delightful morsel, and I do believe I deserve a chance to taste what she chose to deny me. Yes, I believe Elizabeth Bennet will rue the day that she refused me. But she will give me what I wanted that day.
~~ ** ~~ Colonel Fitzwilliam and his cousin entered Matlock House, fueled by their anger over their encounter at the theater.
“Richard, I thought you and Darcy were taking Georgiana to see a play tonight. What are you doing here?” Lord Matlock inquired. He and his wife were relaxing for the evening in their private sitting room.
“We ran into a friend of yours and the
conversation we had made it necessary for us to come here. We need to have a talk with you, Father.”
Seeing his nephew in such a state, Lord Matlock was afraid about what the conversation would be. “It is rather late, perhaps we could meet tomorrow. I was just about to retire for the evening.”
“No, Uncle, we need to speak with you this evening. It is a matter of extreme importance.” Darcy stood tall and stern. “It cannot be delayed, as it is a dangerous situation which could lead to someone dying.”
“Surely you could not be involved in anything so drastic, William.” Lady Matlock declared. “Your uncle has suggested meeting tomorrow, as it is late. It would be better if you did as he asked.”
“I will not be denied, Aunt. We were unfortunate enough to encounter Armstrong at the theater tonight. His words to Richard and myself have made it clear that he has an understanding with you of some sorts, Uncle. I demand you tell me, at once, what the understanding is?”
“I do not know what you mean, Darcy. I have business dealings with Armstrong, as you well know. But I cannot think of anything which could lead you to behave in such a manner.”
“Father, you know I have always been able to tell when you are lying to me, and, right now, I am certain you are lying. Something has you frightened. Has Armstrong threatened you or our family? I cannot imagine what he could be holding over you to command any sort of loyalty from you.”
“Why should I take the word of that young tradesman’s son over someone I have done business with for several years now? You are a fool to side with Bingley, believing his tales when, I have it on good authority, he was the one to beat the whore who had thrown herself on Armstrong. The poor man has suffered from his association with the chit and it is quite unfair.”
“DO NOT EVER REFER TO ELIZABETH BENNET IN SUCH A MANNER AGAIN!” Darcy roared. “If you do, so help me, it will be the last I will tolerate you as my family. I will cut all ties with you.”
“William, your uncle is your blood relation. Why would you treat him so horrendously over some country nobody? She was a paid servant in Mr Armstrong’s home, and attempted to take advantage of the situation. The poor man has been humiliated and so has his daughter.” Lady Matlock was quite upset with Darcy’s behavior.
Richard was enraged. “Mother, I saw Miss Elizabeth after she was beaten. She was nearly killed, by Armstrong. Bingley rescued her, saved her life. It was days before he even knew who she was, the beating had disfigured her face with swelling and bruising, and her broken jaw and crushed throat made it impossible to speak. She is a fine
young lady, who has endured more tragedy in the past half year than you could ever imagine.”
“And Armstrong was heard by many at the club, as he bragged about what he did to her, including things he did not do.” Darcy added. “The thought of it makes me quite ill. Armstrong is a coward and a beast. If he cannot have what he wants, he forces his will on others. Is that what he has done to you, Uncle? Has he made threats against you? I promised you my assistance with the financial burden which you would find by abandoning your dealings with Armstrong. Why would you now change your mind?”
“I believe Armstrong’s version of the event, as I cannot imagine him behaving in the manner your friend accused. He is a man of honor, and I will not sever my business dealings with him.” Lord Matlock attempted to sound stronger than he felt.
“Where is Anthony?” Richard asked his mother. “I wish to speak with him.” “Your brother is out, as usual.” Lady Matlock responded. “I have not seen him for more than a few moments at a time for the past few weeks.”
Richard looked at Darcy, and the two silently agreed. Anthony was the reason for Lord Matlock’s behavior. It would not be hard to locate the heir to Matlock, as his taste for gambling was well known. And the fact that Armstrong owned two gambling halls was even more telling of where the threat had been placed. Though Anthony was not impressed with his duties as the heir, and he cared nothing for his family’s estate, he was still Lord Matlock’s first born and would always take precedence over all others.
“Darcy, you had best rid yourself of Bingley and the Bennet family. Their family is also in trade. And it is high time you settled down and did your duty to our family. If you will not marry your cousin, Anne de Bourgh, then it is time you chose from the many young ladies who constantly beg for your attention. Lady Penelope, for one, would be an excellent match for you.”
Saving Elizabeth Bennet Page 7