Page 30 of The Governess of My Heart
Mrs. Gardiner left Charlotte’s home in dejection. She was unaware of any details besides what her husband had shared. From him, she understood how angry and ashamed he felt when he had discovered Elizabeth’s mother bearing a child out of wedlock. There was considerable bitterness between them untilshe died. Even though her husband repented his actions now, she could understand why Elizabeth refused to stay with her.
I must help her somehow. I must.
Mrs. Gardiner told herself, and within a few days, she returned to Charlotte’s house with a prospect.
“You are asking her to travel to Derbyshire?” Charlotte asked, astonished.
“Yes! I have known Lady Martha for many years. My mother was a good friend of hers, and she owns a huge estate in Derbyshire known as Ashton Park. I wrote to her about seeking a position for Elizabeth, and she readily accepted my request and said she wanted Elizabeth to join as a governess for her two grandchildren. Mrs. Davis, please do not think I am not concerned by the prospect of my niece employing herself. But I have given it much thought and understand why she is making this decision. You can trust me for her safety and well-being at Ashton Park.”
“But she would be so far away from us, and I don’t think I can let her go that far.”
“I will go,” Elizabeth said without a second thought.
“Lizzy, do not be hasty. We can find a good position here, and I can never be peaceful after sending you far away.”
“I think it is quite to my advantage, Charlotte. I will be far away from Hertfordshire, and if I employ myself in town, I will have to live with the fear of being discovered here.”
“But you do not have to fear them anymore. We are here, and you have your aunt as well. I am sure they would not dare to threaten or harm you in any way.”
“I cannot risk it, Charlotte. I do not want to put you both in any discomfort,” she said.
In her heart, she knew she was running away from trouble.
It was decided that Elizabeth would leave for Derbyshire within a couple of days. Her aunt discussed her responsibilities as a governess and informed her about the family in general.
“Lady Martha is the mistress of Ashton Park. She is a widow, and you will be taking care of her two grandchildren. A girl and a boy; they are twins.”
Elizabeth listened keenly.
“The children lost their mother last year, and Lady Martha’s son, Lord Ashton, remarried a couple of months ago. The family is in need of a good governess at present. I am sure you will be well there, Lizzy. Lady Martha and my mother were best friends,” Mrs. Gardiner said with confidence; as much as she wanted Elizabeth to stay with her, she did not want her to work in an unknown household.
Elizabeth needed no further assurance and made up her mind. By the end of April, she left Charlotte’s home and started her journey to Derbyshire. Before she left, Elizabeth wrote to Mary about her decision and promised to stay in touch through her letters.
“Remember, Lizzy, you can always come back to us,” Charlotte said, withholding tears.
“I know, and I am forever indebted to you for all you have done for me. I will miss you,” Elizabeth said and parted ways.
As Elizabeth’s carriage sped away towards Derbyshire, Darcy was headed out of town.
What a surprise it will be for Georgiana when she sees me.
He thought, on his way to Ramsgate.
Chapter 11
Elizabeth was constantly amazed at her willpower and the beauty she witnessed throughout her journey from town to Derbyshire. She had never imagined that her life would change drastically within a few months.
Her aunt had arranged for a maid and her trusted housekeeper to accompany her during their journey. Several footmen accompanied them for safety. Mrs. Gardiner had ensured that her travel was comfortable and made arrangements for them to rest at the best inns on their way to Derbyshire.
Elizabeth relished the sight of hills and pastures rolling by during the journey. She had learned much about Derbyshire’s beauty from her aunt and welcomed nature's distraction as it helped her escape her own thoughts.
She knew the decision to leave town was the best she could take under the circumstances and fervently hoped that Derbyshire would offer her a life without further distress. The journey was long, and after some days, they arrived in Ashton Park late in the evening. Elizabeth was stunned by the size of the property, which was twice the size of Netherfield.
The housekeeper received them, and Elizabeth immediately felt a sense of warmth in her demeanor.
“My dear! It must have been a tiresome journey, even for someone as young as you. You can refresh yourself and rest if you wish to. Lady Martha has instructed me not to press you to meet her if you are tired.”
“I am not tired. I would be happy to meet my employer today, and I thank you for your kindness,” Elizabeth replied, touched by her thoughtfulness.
