Page 20 of An Interrupted Proposal
“What do you make of this list of destinations for ourfriend?”
Darcy studied his cousin before shaking his head. The girls would be affected by their actions for the rest of their lives. Darcy would see a sum set aside for their care, but Philip showed no true concern for them. They were simply victims of war to him.
“I intend to remove Ireland from the list. It is far too close, with easy access to England.”
“I agree.” Philip took another drink before setting the paper back on Darcy’s desk. “Though I would prefer India, we both know Wickham will never choose it. I wager half a crown he decides on Jamaica.”
Darcy shook his head. “It is probably foolish to bet against you, but I will say America. Wickham has never liked the heat.”
“When will you present him his options?”
Leaning back and staring up at the ceiling, Darcy considered the question. He wanted to make Wickham squirm, but he also wished to report all to Elizabeth Saturday evening when they dined in Gracechurch Street. “I believe the ships sailing to both those locations depart the beginning of next week. Jackson will visit Wickham late tomorrow afternoon and he will be instructed to make his selection immediately or lose the opportunity entirely. All shall be settled before this time next week.”
“You are a shrewd businessman, Darce. I would hate to be in Wickham’s shoes.” He emptied his glass. “But are you still insistent upon giving him five hundred pounds?”
“It is more than enough for a man determined to build a new life. For Wickham,” he shook his head, “I suspect he will lose most of it before he steps off the ship.”
“I would have had him impressed into the navy.”
Darcy smiled. “Wickham is not a sailor. The crossing alone will be miserable for him.”
“All the more reason for impressment,” Philip said with a malevolent laugh.
***********
The coach carrying Darcy, Georgiana, Bingley, and Philip made its way through the busy streets of London.
“Are you certain they are expecting me?” Georgiana asked for the second time as she wrung her hands. “Miss Elizabeth has just arrived and may not wish to entertain strangers.”
Bingley waved away her concern. “Miss Bennet and Mrs. Gardiner were insistent that you join us as your brother and cousin were already included in our group. They did not wish you to dine alone and were eager to meet you.”
“Mrs. Gardiner spent time in Lambton as a young girl,” Darcy added to ease his sister’s nervousness. “She is familiar with our family. I am certain she will have stories to tell us of our parents.”
Georgiana’s countenance lifted. “Do you think she knew Mother?”
“I suppose we will learn soon enough. Their home is on the next street.”
His sister’s eyes widened, and her complexion paled slightly, so Darcy laid a hand upon hers and gently pressed her fingers. “They will love you,” he whispered in her ear.
Georgiana nodded but did not say anything further. The carriage drew to a stop and Darcy pressed his sister’s hand once more when the footman opened the door. He stepped out and then assisted Georgiana from the coach, leading her to the door while Bingley and Philip followed.
The door opened as they approached, and voices could be heard from upstairs. As they were handing off their outerwear, a small form darted towards them while “Thomas!” was heard from the floor above.
“You came! I told our Lizzy you would.” Master Thomas Gardiner rushed forwards and hugged Darcy’s leg. “Did you bring your horse?”
Darcy bent down to be on the boy’s level. “I am afraid I was unable to do so. Bingley and I shall have to return another day for you to have another ride in the park.”
Thomas turned as he realized there were several other individuals in the foyer. His eyes grew large when he saw the officer. “Who’s that?” he whispered in an only slightly softer voice.
“We must wait until we are presented to your parents for introductions.”
The boy blushed but took Darcy’s hand and followed the housekeeper up the stairs to the parlour.
“It appears your brother neglected to tell us of his new friend,” Philip whispered behind him as Georgiana giggled.
Darcy could only smile and allowed the lad to tug him along at a slightly faster pace than was proper but met his deepest desire to see Elizabeth.
“See, Lizzy! I told you he would come.” Thomas looked up at Darcy with large eyes. “A gentleman always keeps his promise. Right, Mr. Darcy?”
