Page 76 of The Scarred Duchess
Jane pressed her lips together. There was much truth in what the countess said. Since childhood, so much had been made of her outward beauty that losing it had led her to forget what truly mattered. Although her face was healed, her soul remained in pain. She did not want to think of what she had lost, all those years ago.
“I shall leave you with your thoughts.” Lady Matlock sat back.
Jane turned back to the window. I was determined to come to town, to enjoy society and friendships that I felt had been denied me.But what has the Season given me? What have I gained? The envy of others. The Queen’s approbation. Notoriety.She pulled at her gloves with every frustrating thought.What have I lost?She could think of only one very precious thing.And by my own hand. My own words.
“John,” she whispered.
Edward Gardiner read the card in his hand.
Mr Charles Bingley, Scarborough
“Show him in, please.”
A few moments later, a young man bobbed into the room; energy burst from his person.
Gardiner hesitated. “Mr…Bingley? Of Bingley Carriage Works in…?”
“My father,” interrupted the young man. “He died last month. I am in town to look after the family interests.”
“My condolences, sir.” Gardiner gestured to two chairs and moments later, drinks in hand, their conversation resumed. “What brings you to my door, Mr Bingley?”
“I have been reviewing my father’s investments with our solicitors. His funds under your purview are the largest in that arena.”
“Your father and I had a much-valued, long-term partnership. We corresponded little, but he was a steadfast investor.”
Mr Bingley nodded several times. “Yes, and that is why I am here. I would like to have the funds made available for withdrawal.” The young man sat back and crossed his legs.
“Forgive me for my curiosity. May I ask why?”
“My father dreamt that I would become a landed gentleman. Thus, I plan to purchase an estate to honour his wishes.”
Much as he wished to persuade him otherwise, Gardiner did not. Although the young man was impulsive anduninformed, it was not his responsibility to correct such an errant course.
“Of course. We would never withhold that which rightfully belonged to someone else. I keep most of my paperwork here.” Gardiner went to his desk and pulled out a document. Pointing to the bottom, he said, “Please read and sign this cessation of partnership.”
Mr Bingley’s surprise showed. “Well, umm, excellent.” He handed the signed paper back to Gardiner. “When can you ready the funds?”
Such youthful impatience!Gardiner looked to the ceiling. “Would two weeks be sufficient, sir?”
“Might I enquire about that time limit?”
Gardiner nodded. “Your father’s investment exclusivity was singular as he pioneered our early strategies. Your sizeable withdrawal will make several waiting investors very happy.”
“You do not begrudge me our termination?”
Gardiner chuckled. “Young man, you have allowed me additional profits. New investors shall not come aboard under your father’s lucrative terms.” At the young man’s bewildered look, he asked, “Did not your solicitors explain the merits of the annual returns?”
“They did, but my sister seeks to sell out of our roots in trade.”
Gardiner smiled. A puppy led by what was probably a grasping unmarried sister seeking to wed well above her roots.My thanks to social climbing viragoes.
“I am happy to have assisted you in moving closer to her desires, Mr Bingley. Shall we?” He gestured to the door and followed the youngman out.
“Brother, you are late!” cried Georgiana.
The tall man entering the room slowed his step as he looked between the two ladies. Elizabeth noticed his height, his dark hair, the wrinkle in his brow, and the slight press of his lips. Knowing all that his sister had spent hours relating of him, she supposed he was suppressing his mirth.Rather handsomely, too,she thought.
“I beg your pardon, Miss Darcy,” he replied formally as he bowed. “If you would see to the introductions?”
