“Yes,” Richard drawled as he considered this idea. “But am I sufficiently solvent for such a venture? I have three children I must consider. There is Beth’s dowry and the boys.”
“This is nothing which must be decided today.” Darcy finished his drink and set the glass aside as he glanced at his timepiece. “It is nearly time to dress for dinner. You must come below tonight and remain. Elizabeth is joining us and she will desire to see you.” He frowned. “She is aware you rode Phantom today.”
Richard’s jaw dropped as his eyes grew wide. “Why ever would you tell her?”
“She came upon me pacing in the hall. She knew I was worried for you. You know I cannot lie to my wife!”
Shaking his head, Richard’s laughter rumbled in his chest. “It appears I shall have a fourth, or is it fifth, set down of the day.”
“Fifth?”
“Yes, Miss Bennet has found it necessary to correct my behaviour twice already.”
“Twice? Forgive me, Cousin, I am aware you exchanged words this morning at breakfast, but I did not realize you had met again.”
Richard shook his head and waved Darcy away. “Suffice it to say I have much for which to apologize, and many to thank.”
Darcy waited, but Richard did not respond and his cousin quickly realized he would learn no more at this time. Standing, he bowed and slipped from the room, leaving Richard deep in thought.
Chapter Six
The eerie creaking sound of a door opening at an unnaturally slow rate filled the silent library; bouncing off walls and shelves until it seemed to be coming from everywhere and nowhere at once. Mr. Bennet sat motionless, waiting for the arrival of whatever spectre had chosen to disturb his tranquillity. When the sound stopped, he held his breath, uncertain of what to expect. A soft tapping sound, as of someone tiptoeing into the room, reached his ears. He looked about to see who approached.
“Aagh!” The young boy turned as though to run, but tripped over his own feet and landed in a heap.
Moving faster than was expected for one of his age, Mr. Bennet reached the child’s side just as he rose. Taking him by the arm, he began to dust the lad off.
“Let me go; let me go!” The child struggled against him.
“I will not; so you had best hold still.”
The boy’s eyes grew wide as he realized it was not a ghoul who had him by the arm, and he stilled at once.
Mr. Bennet looked him over and asked, “You are uninjured?”
“Yes, sir,” he said quietly.
“And who might you be?” Mr. Bennet asked as he fought the urge to smile at young Master William. Knowing which children were currently in residence, he had already surmised the identity of his visitor; but giving in to his joy of teasing, he decided to see how the boy would respond.
Shoulders drawn back, the child stood to his fullest height. “I am William Henry Fitzwilliam. My father is Major General Richard Fitzwilliam, cousin to Mr. Darcy. And who are you, sir? I thought everyone had been called to dinner.”
Unable to hide his mirth any longer, Mr. Bennet chuckled. “Yes, you are quite right, but I was otherwise disposed and lingered here. I am Mr. Thomas Bennet, father to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy.”
William obviously relaxed and his eyes grew wide. “Oh, you are Cousin Lizzy’s and Mistress Mary’s papa. They said you love the library as much as I do.”
Mr. Bennet placed a hand on William’s shoulder and led him to the chairs before the fireplace. “Yes, I have heard you enjoy reading. I am surprised we have not met here before.” He motioned toward the seat beside his own and William climbed into it, his feet dangling over the edge. “So what has brought you to the library this evening, all alone?” His brow rose quizzically and the child began to squirm.
“The others are abed and Nurse has gone to her room. I was unable to sleep and I have read all the books in the nursery, so I thought I would find another.”
Frowning, Mr. Bennet shook his head. “Without saying a word to anyone? What if they decided to look for you? You could bring them quite a bit of worry.”
William’s brow creased as he considered this. “I believed I would return before I could be missed. Everyone is supposed to be at dinner so I didn’t think I would disturb anyone.”
Mr. Bennet laid a hand upon his chest. “Disturb? I thought a phantasm was coming to visit me.”
“Who? Me? When you looked about the chair, I thought you were a ghost. That’s why I cried out and ran.”
They each studied the other for a moment before smiles slowly crept across their faces. Mr. Bennet was unable to contain his chuckles when he heard William’s joyful giggles.
“Well young man, what matter of book were you looking to obtain?” Thus began a conversation of books and recommendations until the two avid readers lost all thought of time, food, or companions.
***********
The gentlemen stood as the ladies announced their intention to make their way to the music room. They were gone but a minute when Richard began to move toward the door also, but his cousin placed a restraining hand upon his shoulder.
“I thought we agreed you would not disappear this evening,” Darcy whispered, frowning.
Shaking off his host’s hand, Richard gave him a weak smile. “I shall return; I simply wish to look in on the children. I will see you in the music room shortly.”
Darcy looked doubtful as he watched Richard leave. He turned back to Bingley who had arrived at Pemberley earlier that day. “Was there anything you wished to discuss with me, Brother?”
Sitting his glass upon the table, Bingley shook his head and approached Darcy. “Nothing that cannot wait until tomorrow. Shall we forego our port and join the ladies?”
Nodding, Darcy led the way from the room. When they reached the first floor, they could hear the ladies’ voices and a few cords being played upon the pianoforte. Darcy glanced up the stairs, but did not see his cousin. Pulling out his timepiece, he noted the time, determined not to allow Richard to remain above stairs for an extended period.
***********
“It appears Papa has chosen to spend the night in the library since he is leaving in a day. I suppose I should check with Mrs. Reynolds to see that a tray was taken to him.” Elizabeth scooted forward in her seat and began to rise, but Mary stayed her.
“I shall see to it. You should rest, Lizzy; you appear tired.” Rising from the piano bench, she crossed the room toward the door.
“Yes, yes, let Mary see to it, Lizzy.” Mrs. Bennet shook out the piece of linen she was stitching, all the while tsking under her breath. “You must not lose your youth and exuberance. You have yet to bear an heir. We would not want Mr. Darcy to lose interest in you before he has his son.”
Elizabeth exchanged a wearied glance with Jane who reached out to pat her hand. “I agree with Mary, Lizzy, you do appear tired. Would you prefer to return to your rooms?” They both knew Jane offered this more as an escape from their mother than due to any real need.
Shaking her head, Elizabeth sat back against the cushions. “No, I have been abed long enough. I missed the company of the drawing room, and the music. Mary, please hurry back so you can play for us.” She smiled at her younger sister.
Mary blushed as she nodded and stepped from the room. In the hall, she met Darcy and Bingley.
“You are not withdrawing, are you, Mary?”
The concern was clear in Darcy’s voice and Mary’s colour deepened. “No, I am seeing to Papa’s dinner. Lizzy was afraid he has not eaten, and she is probably correct.”
Darcy chuckled. “I believe Mrs. Reynolds will have already seen to it. She is accustomed to your father’s ways.”
Smiling Mary nodded. “I am simply seeing about our father to put Lizzy’s mind at ease so she may enjoy the evening.”
“That is good of you, Mary. Your sister and I are glad you will remain when your parents continue their journey. I hope you will enjoy your time at Pemberley.”
Mary nodded and thanked him,
before excusing herself to continue on with her task. The first time she visited Pemberley, she had felt overwhelmed. It was an impressive home, and she feared becoming lost. Now, over six years later, she saw it for its warmth rather than its size. People loved and encouraged her here. She was very pleased she would not be travelling farther north with her parents, and was determined to enjoy her time in Derbyshire.
“William?” a voice called from the floor above, breaking into her recollections. “William?” a bit louder this time.
Mary paused at the bottom of the steps as General Fitzwilliam appeared at the top. “Miss Bennet, have you seen my son? He is not in his bed.” The concern was clear in his voice.
A small smile teased the corner of her lips. “I am uncertain, but I believe you may find him in the library, sir. I was on my way there now to see about my father.”
The General hurried down the stairs to join her. “Of course, I should have thought of that.”
“If he is not there, I shall have to rely upon your knowledge of the house, as well as the activities of six year old boys, for further suggestions. I am certain there are many places you know where he could be hiding.”
He chuckled; the sound rumbling in his chest seemed foreign to his ears. “Aye, but I am not certain William is aware of them. I am torn between wanting him to learn of them, and a desire to avoid having to search for him.”
She dropped her head to hide her amusement as they walked toward the library. “I believe he shall find them soon enough, sir. Perhaps you and Darcy might join the boys tomorrow afternoon during their play time and point them toward the safer spots.”
They had reached the door of the library, and General Fitzwilliam paused as he turned to look at her. “Miss Bennet, I am glad we had this moment alone. I wanted to thank you for your words of wisdom today.”
She blushed and shook her head, still looking down at her hands. “I was far too outspoken, sir. I know not what came over me; it was not my place.”
Laying a hand upon her arm, he reached out with his other and, placing a finger under her chin, lifted her head so their eyes met. “You were correct. I was withdrawing from my children, and it is not what Sarah would have wanted. I promised Darcy I would find some occupation to keep me from my melancholy. I would welcome any advice you may have in the future.”
Suddenly uncomfortable by his touch, Mary stepped back as she nodded her head. She turned toward the door and waited for him to open it.
“Forgive my forwardness, Miss Bennet.” His tone suddenly contained an awkward ring.
“There is nothing to forgive, sir. I am pleased my words did not offend you,” she said in an attempt to put him at ease.
He opened the door to the library and they entered, glancing about until they saw a tray on a nearby table and the top of Mr. Bennet’s head in a chair by the fire. Approaching the older gentleman, they found the missing child curled up on his lap, sound asleep.
“Oh good,” Mr. Bennet whispered. “I was certain I would be unable to carry Master William back to the nursery, but I did not wish to disturb him by getting up to ring for assistance. On top of it all, I believe my leg has gone numb.” His humour over the situation was clear in his voice.
The General chuckled as he rounded the chair and gingerly lifted the boy.
“Papa?” William asked groggily.
“Hush, Son. I have you.” Arms went about his shoulders as William snuggled against his neck.
“I love Pemberley,” the boy said as he yawned. “Especially the library.”
Nodding to the others, the General carried the child toward the door. He paused before leaving and looked back at the father and daughter. Mary had taken a seat by Mr. Bennet and they were speaking quietly. As if feeling his eyes upon her, she glanced in his direction. A slow embarrassed smile spread across his countenance as he nodded once more and left the room.
Mary watched him go before turning back to her father. The look in his eyes was inquiring with a hint of mischief, and she braced herself for his questions.
“It appears you and General Fitzwilliam have called a truce?”
“He thanked me for speaking my mind and asked that I continue to do so in the future. I believe he is a singular man.” She smiled, letting her father know she was up to his banter this evening.
Laughing, Mr. Bennet sat back in his seat and rubbed his leg. “I believe you are correct, my dear. So, were you sent to find me or were you in search of the lad?”
“Lizzy wished to know if you had eaten.”
A warm smile lingered on his countenance as he nodded his head. “Yes, she would. I have,” he motioned toward the tray. “So I suppose we should join the others. What amusements are planned for this evening?”
Her colour rose as she lowered her eyes. “Lizzy asked that I play.”
“Well then, we must not keep her waiting. This is her first evening below, I am certain she shall withdraw early.” He pushed up out of the chair and slowly settled his weight upon his still tingling leg. “What shall you play for her?”
Mary rose and slipped an arm about her father’s waist to assist him. As his arm settled upon her, she shrugged. “I shall attempt to find a light piece, but I dislike being the centre of attention.”
Squeezing her shoulders, he scoffed. “You have always rushed to exhibit in the past.”
“But that was in Meryton where there were few to compare. I do not have Lizzy’s passion or Georgiana’s expertise. I fear Lizzy only asked so we would not be sitting in silence.”
“Nonsense! You have improved since you stopped playing those ponderous melodies. I quite enjoy listening when you do not know anyone is about. You must play for yourself, Mary; think not of those around you, and do not compare yourself to others. Besides, Lizzy will not be performing this evening and Georgiana is not even in attendance.”
They made their way from the library and entered the music room moments before the General joined them.
“Papa, are you unwell?” Lizzy asked in concern upon seeing her sister aiding him into the room.
Mr. Bennet waved for her to remain seated and released his younger daughter to walk to a chair by his wife. “Do not be alarmed, my dear. My leg had simply gone numb and Mary did not wish for me to stumble.”
Fussing over her husband, Mrs. Bennet poured him a cup of tea and fixed a plate of treats for him. “You sit too long, Mr. Bennet. Have you even eaten this evening?”
“Yes, yes, Mrs. Reynolds saw to my comfort. All would have been well had I not had a visitor who fell asleep upon my lap.”
“A visitor, sir?” Darcy turned in surprise.
“Yes,” General Fitzwilliam said, having entered in time to hear the previous comments. “Apparently William decided to explore the library unaccompanied. I thank you, Mr. Bennet, for entertaining him.”
“It was my pleasure, General. He is a highly intelligent lad. Once we overcame our fear of one another, we got on rather well.” Mr. Bennet smiled smugly, waiting to see who would question him first.
“Fear? Whatever about a small boy would frighten you, Mr. Bennet?” Mrs. Bennet frowned at him as she dusted crumbs from his collar.
He settled back in his chair and took up a slice of cake, as his daughters recognized the twinkle in his eye signalling his readiness to be storyteller for the evening. Lizzy leaned forward eagerly as Jane took up her embroidery with a small smile lighting her eyes. Mary looked about at the gentlemen, wondering if they knew what was about to ensue.
“I was sitting quietly in the library, as is my wont. Mrs. Reynolds, aware of my habits, had already sent in a dinner tray which was delicious. Lizzy, you must reprimand your cook; she has quite spoiled me. It is good we are leaving in a day or I might require a trip to the tailor.”
“I shall pass along your compliments, Papa; but you have strayed from your tale.” She winked at her father, knowing how he loved to draw out a story.
“So I have,” he smiled as he turned back to the others. “I
had just finished reading Hamlet once more, and my thoughts were centred on visitations of ancestors, when I heard the door moving so slowly as to make the hinges protest. I wondered which of the Darcy ancestors was disturbed by my trespass upon their sanctum.”
“None, I can assure you, sir,” Darcy chuckled as he carried a plate of treats to his wife and took the seat beside her. “They would instead be desirous to join you.”
“As I was hoping. I would enjoy a bit of conversation with the gentlemen who built such a collection.” He glanced at his daughter, who had raised her brow impatiently as she accepted a sweet from her husband. “Ah, but Lizzy’s gaze tells me I have digressed again so I shall come to the point. The soft patting which reached my ears assured me my visitor was indeed of flesh and blood, so I looked about the high back of the chair to ascertain their identity. Unfortunately for Master William, my face must have been lit by the moonlight coming through the window, giving it a spectral appearance. The poor lad fell over his own feet in his retreat.”
All laughed at the vision of the small boy running from the supposed ghost.
“But then how did you get him to sit with you?” Richard asked, leaning forward, fully engaged in the tale.
Sparing a glance and a wink toward Darcy, Mr. Bennet answered, “I am not so old as some may suppose.” He looked pointedly at his wife who rolled her eyes in response. “I was able to catch him before he regained his feet. Once he realized it was a man who held him and not a ghoul, we were able to sit and have a pleasant conversation. We found a book which would meet both our interests and a comfortable seat, and remained there until we were located.”
Bingley laughed as he stood. “Well, I am certain I have appreciated the bedtime story as much as Master William. So much so, I believe I shall retire for the evening. You will forgive me, I was early in the saddle to address tenant issues so I could spend the evening with my loving family. Now I find myself ready for sleep so we can be together again on the morrow.”
Mistress Mary and the General: A Pride and Prejudice Inspired Story Page 5