Louisa was frustrated. She had never seen her brother so determined. “At least allow her a few days to adjust to the idea. You cannot expect her to have so much change happen overnight. Please, Charles, I am certain that Mr Darcy would allow us to remain here a few more nights.”
“You and I are both aware that Caroline is not ill. She is attempting to force her way into remaining here. I will send for the physician. If he states that there is something wrong with Caroline, then I will speak with Darcy. But if she is not truly ill, I will have her loaded in a carriage and on her way to Town before her trunks are even packed.”
~~ ** ~~ Charles returned to his sisters when the physician arrived. He escorted the physician, Mr Abernathy, to Caroline’s room and stayed to hear the verdict. It was not what he had expected.
“Mr Bingley, your sister appears to be suffering from a fever. It is not terribly high, but traveling would worsen it. With her headache and the fever, I would recommend she remain in bed for at least a week.”
Though he was suspicious, Bingley agreed to speak with Darcy on extending their stay. He was certain that his sisters were up to something, but he was unsure what they had done.
Had he been in the room with his sisters before Mr Abernathy arrived, he would have known they had found a way to make Caroline’s temperature rise, without her being truly ill. But he had to accept the physician’s declaration and would need to remain at Pemberley.
After the physician and Charles left the
bedchamber, the sisters began their scheming. ~~ ** ~~ Caroline was not naïve in the ways of getting a man to do her bidding. She had been having a liaison with one of the postilions who worked on the Bingley carriage, and had the young man wrapped around her little finger. The young man was sneaked into Caroline’s rooms that afternoon, so she could convince him to do her bidding.
“Raymond, I am in desperate need of your assistance. If you do not assist me, my brother will be casting me off in a house of my own, in Town. If that happens, I will never be able to be with you again.”
“What can I do to assist you, Miss Bingley? I am unable to dissuade your brother’s decision.” The young man stated as he dropped to his knees before her, taking her hands in his own and placing kisses on them. “I will do whatever I can to continue seeing you.”
“If I were to marry Mr Darcy, it would be a marriage of convenience. Mr Darcy would allow me to continue my relations with you, as he will have a mistress to keep him occupied. But I must remain here, at Pemberley. And I must be rid of Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”
“Are you speaking of Lady Elizabeth? We have heard the Pemberley staff speaking of her.” Caroline pushed the young man away from her. “She is no more a lady than I am the Queen. She is a royal bastard, not worthy of being treated any better than a scullery maid. It is that whore that is keeping Mr Darcy from asking for my hand. If it were not for her, our future would be settled here at Pemberley. Would you not enjoy remaining here? I would have Charles leave you with us to tend my personal carriage, as I am certain Mr Darcy would wish to purchase a new carriage for my particular use. Can you not see that Miss Bennet is causing all the difficulties I am facing?”
“But what can be done to change this?” Raymond pleaded. “Should I begin to spread lies about her, embarrass her until she fleas from the
neighborhood?”
“No, for Mr Darcy’s sympathies would wish to protect her. And his staff would not tolerate such behavior. We need to rid ourselves of Miss Bennet permanently. And I have just the plan. But I will need you to assist me.” Caroline reached down to the young man’s chin, pulling it up as she lowered her lips to meet his. Several breathless moments later, Raymond was unable to think properly. “Will you do what is needed to guarantee our future together?”
“Of course, my dearest Miss Bingley. I would do anything for you.”
~~ ** ~~ The following morning, Elizabeth rose at her usual time and prepared for her morning stroll in the park. She found it highly unusual that Sadie was not in the room, but figured that she would find her beloved canine friend in the park. Taking her usual treats with her, Elizabeth began to walk.
After an hour of walking, and sitting at her usual resting spot where she and Sadie would normally relax and enjoy their treats, Elizabeth was growing concerned for the dog. Since she had first met the sweet natured collie, not a morning had passed without the two of them spending the morning together.
Elizabeth began walking again, this time she began calling out to Sadie to join her. Suddenly, she heard the whimpering of an injured dog. She knew, instantly, that it was Sadie. Elizabeth continued to call to the dog as she hurried in her search. Finally, she found Sadie, lying on her side on the ground near the base of a hill. She could not imagine what had happened to her devoted friend, and rushed forward to the dog. “Sadie, what has happened? How did you injure yourself?”
The dog looked at her, as if fearful, and gave one painful bark, as if in warning. Too late, Elizabeth ran forward into an area which had been marked off as dangerous. The earth began to give way beneath her feet and Elizabeth plunged into complete darkness.
~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~
Chapter 15 “Where could Elizabeth be?” Mr Bennet inquired as he paced about the drawing room. “She should have returned from her morning walk by now. And where is Sadie? I have not seen the dog all morning either.”
“I rode out in the direction she normally walks, though I was later than usual this morning.” Darcy stated. “One of my horses had injured his leg and I was speaking with Mr Fox about what could be done for the horse. I assumed she had finished and returned to the house.”
Darcy walked over to the nearby window and stared out at the rain which was falling. It was tearing at his heart that he could not mount a horse and ride out to find Elizabeth. He could not stand the fact that he had no notion where she could be, nor did he know if she were safe.
Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley knew how desperate Darcy was to be out on the estate, searching for the lady he loved. “Cousin, I am sure she has taken shelter in one of the buildings on the estate. Perhaps in the hunting shack which is not far past the lake. Once the rain relents, we will be able to begin to search for her.”
“Lady Elizabeth is strong and capable in nature, Darcy. We both know that she is able to walk long distances. Remember her walking to Netherfield to tend her sister when Miss Jane took ill? Lady Elizabeth walked through all the mud from the storm the night before, yet she had a healthy glow from all the exercise. I am certain we will find her in much the same way after the storm subsides.”
“I pray she is. If she is injured, it will be my fault for not being on time to accompany her.” Darcy said as he slammed his hand against the wall surrounding the window.
“Darcy, I am certain that my daughter will be well. Lizzy is strong. She has been caught in storms before, with no harm to her. I am only nervous, which is why I commented. After all we have been through in the past few months, I am particularly protective of her.” Mr Bennet said as he placed a hand gently on Darcy’s shoulder. “Come, let us have something to drink, and then, I believe you owe me a chess match.”
Reluctantly, Darcy agreed.
~~ ** ~~ Elizabeth tried to rolled over and attempted to sit up. Unfortunately, there was a large rock on top of her, near her waist. She choked on the dust which was all about her. There was very little light coming from above. Looking up, she could see that the sky had turned dark and cloudy, and that it had begun to rain. How long have I been here? And just where is here?
She could see that she was underground, about ten feet underground, in a large hole. It must be one of the areas Mr Darcy spoke of, one of the areas which was considered dangerous. But I did not see any markings. The tree with the markings and the stones surrounding the area, I saw none of them. How could that be? Mr Darcy was adamant that this area be marked for everyone’s protection. Was this area outside the marked area? Have I found a different location?
Oh, my, this stone is not budging. If I could remove it, I am certain I would be able to climb out. The walls of the hole are uneven, and should allow me to find hand and foot holds. How am I to move the stone?
And where is Sadie? Did she fall down here as well? The poor girl, she was injured to begin with. A fall like this, in her condition, might kill her. Please, God, please watch over Sadie. She is so dear to me, such a kind and loving creature. Please keep her safe.
The rain grew stronger, forcing Elizabeth to cover her face with her arms. She was grateful for the moisture, as she knew she would not dehydrate. But she was worried of the rain continuing for any length of time. It would delay anyone being able to find her. Then the thought went through her mind. Just how will anyone find me down here?
~~ ** ~~ At tea time, Caroline made a production of joining the rest of the party in the drawing room. She put on a performance of how weak she was from her headache and fever, yet felt she must make the effort to be with everyone as they worried for Elizabeth. She made comments of false concern for the young lady, and she also stated she would not have been surprised to learn Elizabeth was safe and sound, causing her family and friends such fear for nothing.
“Who knows with Miss Elizabeth, she was famed for being quite a walker back in Hertfordshire. She could have just continued walking, leaving Pemberley behind.”
“Miss Bingley, why would you say such a thing?” Colonel Fitzwilliam was the first to speak. “Well, I should not have listened, but the other day, I overheard Miss Elizabeth speaking to that mutt to whom she has taken a liking. She stated that sometimes she feels as if she could just continue to walk, until she left all of her past behind her and could begin anew.”
Darcy walked quickly towards Caroline. “Miss Bingley, I do not believe you. I declare, here and now, if you have done anything to bring Lady Elizabeth any harm, I will see you pay.”
“Mr Darcy, how could you accuse me of such behavior? I am appalled at your words. Here I am, ill, and still attempting to be of comfort to you and your guests. Louisa, I believe it would be best if I return to my rooms. My headache is growing worse. Please, Sister, would you assist me to my rooms?”
Louisa Hurst knew what had happened, as Raymond had watched as Elizabeth plunged into the earth. He had returned to his mistress and informed her of the situation being handled. And he was compensated generously by Caroline, over the following hour.
“Of course, Caroline. Charles, you should assist our sister as well, rather than remain here with people who say they are your friend, yet speak so cruelly to her.”
“No, Louisa, I wish for Caroline to remain here. Darcy, if you would not mind, could we have the physician sent for? I believe it would be best if she remains here, with us, to watch over her.” Bingley had finally determined that his sisters were conspiring, and he was certain that Caroline had faked her fever.
“But Charles, it will harm Caroline’s health and prevent her from recovering if she is forced to remain here. She needs to be in her bed.” Louisa became frantic. She could not have the physician check her sister, unless Louisa was able to assist Caroline in looking feverish.
Bingley finally had had enough of his sisters and stood his ground. “I said that Caroline will remain here, and I meant it. She will not leave this room until the physician arrives and examines her. I do not trust the two of you, and will make certain that you cannot concoct an illness which is not true. I wish to have the physician confirm a theory I have of your illness.”
Darcy pulled the cord for a servant, and asked the footman to send for Mr Abernathy. Caroline moaned and pretended she was growing extremely ill, all the while, trying desperately to escape the room. She was on the verge of finding a way to force her fingers down her throat to cause her to vomit, when Mrs Reynolds entered the drawing room.
“Master William, Mr Fox says the rain is letting up. He is having horses saddled for any of the men who wish to search for Lady Elizabeth.” She then stepped closer to Darcy and whispered into his ear. “You might be wishing to speak with the young postilion from Mr Bingley’s carriage. It seems he was seen carrying something out of the house this morning, and was missing for quite some time. Mr Fox said that one of the stable hands commented that the young postilion is frequently seen entering the main house through the servants’ quarters.”
Darcy nodded his head. “Charles, you and Mr Bennet should remain here, until Mr Abernathy arrives to tend your sister. If you would be so kind, ask him to remain here, for when we locate Lady Elizabeth. Mr Gardiner, you may remain here or join us in the search, I know Mr Bennet’s health is not the best for riding.”
Mr Gardiner nodded his head. “I will join you. Bennet, I know you wish to be with Lizzy when we find her, but you will do her no good if you cripple yourself in the search. Have no fear, we will find her and bring her back.”
Tears were forming in Mr Bennet’s eyes. He felt useless at that moment, until Darcy leaned over and informed him of what the housekeeper had told Darcy. “I will leave it in your hands to discover the truth of what happened with that young man.”
“Thank you, Darcy. I will need a task to keep me occupied until you bring my daughter back.” ~~ ** ~~ It was growing late when Darcy received word from the house of the area where to search for Elizabeth. In the hours Darcy had been out, searching, Mr Bennet and Bingley uncovered the truth of what had happened.
Mr Bennet and Bingley discussed, openly, in front of the ladies, of the postilion who was seen regularly visiting the house through the servants’ quarters. As the Pemberley staff had been questioned about the man, it was learned that the man in question was not visiting any of the Darcy servants, and was even seen in the area of Miss Bingley’s rooms.
Bingley was disgusted by his sister’s behavior. He realized the truth of what was happening. His maiden sister was not what she appeared to be. He had had Raymond brought to the drawing room, and, in front of his sisters, declared the man had been having relations with Caroline.
“I have no doubt that it has been happening for some time, but that does not matter at the moment. Raymond, I insist you tell me what you have done in the service of my sister today.”
“I…I do not know what you mean, Sir. I have been at my duty to tend the horses today.” Raymond said nervously. He did not wish to face the noose, which is what he would face if his part in Lady Elizabeth’s accident were discovered.
“I have it on the word of several trustworthy members of the Darcy staff, you were seen coming and going from this house several times today. The last I checked, our horses are not kept inside the house. What were you doing here at the house? It was said that you were carrying something from the house this morning. What was it?”
“N…n…nothing Sir. I m…mean, your sister was frightened of the dog. The one which tried to attack her. I removed it from the house, as it had gotten into her rooms. Your sister, Mrs Hurst, asked me to remove the beast. So I did. I did not wish to disturb anyone else. So I took the dog out of the house.”
Mr Bennet was not fooled. “Where is the dog?” “Th…the dog? I took the dog outside. I released the dog outside and it ran away, snarling at me. I am certain the dog is diseased. It is dangerous.” Raymond did not realize how he was convicting himself.
“The dog was fine last night.” Mr Bennet said. “If the dog was ill, how did you carry it out of the house without anyone knowing? If it was snarling and attacking, how is it that you were able to carry it out without a problem?”
Mr Hurst had been assisted into the room as those gathered had been waiting for the postilion to come to the drawing room. He was tired of the lies he was hearing from his wife, her sister, and the young man who was Caroline’s lover. “What did you do to render the dog silent and calm?”
“I beg your pardon, Mr Hurst, but all I did was throw a grain sack over the dog. It remained calm until after I released it outside. That was when it became snarling and attempted to attack.”
“I thought
you said that the dog attempted to attack my sister.” Bingley said. Raymond was not an intelligent person, and the three men questioning him was confusing him terribly. Caroline feigned being too ill to continue in the discussion, even after Mr Abernathy arrived and pronounced her well and hearty. It was discovered, by Mr Abernathy, that Caroline’s maid had placed heated bricks under Caroline’s pillow before the physician had arrived previously. Caroline’s skin was quite warm due to the heat from the bricks, and some water had been sprinkled on her face to look like perspiration.
“Sir, it is best you tell us where you took Lady Elizabeth’s dog, and where Lady Elizabeth can be found.” Hurst stated. “If she has been harmed in any way, you will face charges. But if you assist us in locating her, it will go easier on you with the court.”
“Miss Bingley, please, I beg of you, please assist me. I do not know what to do.” Raymond said. “You have lied to my brothers, I do not know why you think I can assist you. I barely know who you are, yet you make it seem as if we are intimate.” Caroline yelled at the young man, pretending to sob on her sister’s shoulder. “How can you ruin my good name in such a manner? I have never done anything to harm you, yet you treat me in such an infamous manner.”
“Miss Bingley, please. I love you, and I know you love me in return. You promised me a future with you, if I would assist you. But I cannot be with you if I am arrested. Please, I beg of you. Tell your brothers the truth. You gave me the vial of medicine to put on the dog’s food, the liquid that would make the dog sleep. You said you always bring some of the medicine with you for your nerves. Please, please, tell them the truth so they will not be angry with me. Then we can be together. I am sure you will have need of a footman in your home in London. There is no need for you to be married to Mr Darcy.”
“You fool.” Caroline screamed. “Are you too stupid to know the truth? Can you not see that you are nothing to me? Can you not see that you were only a means to aid me in remaining here, so I can secure Mr Darcy’s hand in marriage? Why would I want the likes of you, when I can have a real man like Mr Darcy? You are scrapes to feed the hogs in
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