“Yes, she did.” Darcy leaned forward in earnest and said, “Thank you for sharing that story. I cherish such remembrances of my parents. I must also thank you for the opportunity to speak to your grandmother. When Miss Bennet informed me that Mrs. Smith mentioned another letter, I could not rest until I could ask what she meant.”
“I have to tell you, Mr. Darcy, after Miss Bennet left, Grandmother was quite restless. She was distressed to learn of your impending marriage.”
“Will she join us shortly? I am anxious to reestablish the connection.”
“Yes, sir. The maid is helping her and she will join us momentarily. But, I must warn you, she may not remember any of the information divulged here last, nor you, nor anything of consequence for that matter. Recently her decline has been…”
He nodded his comprehension. “I understand, madam. And if at any point you wish us to cease our conversations or questions, we will do so and depart.”
“I am uncertain how she will respond but hope you will be met with success.”
“As do I.”
All three looked up as they heard movement in the hallway and the door opened with Mrs. Smith entering the room.
“Grandmother,” Mrs. Worth said, standing to take her hand and assist her to the chair across from where Mr. Darcy stood to greet her. “You remember meeting Miss Bennet last week?”
Mrs. Smith’s eyes were a mask of unrecognition. She glanced straight ahead and sat gently down in the proffered chair.
“And this, Grandmother, is Mr. Darcy of Pemberley. He has come most specially to meet you.”
Hazel Smith did not stir but continued to stare out the window at the garden.
“Good morning, Mrs. Smith. It is a pleasure to meet you,” Mr. Darcy said. “My mother often spoke well of you in my youth, and I often remember your generosity of sweets when you had returned from Lambton.” He smiled warmly but it had no effect on the older woman’s memory or recognition.
He regulated the frustration in his tone as inquiry after inquiry went unanswered. Finally, after ten minutes of polite one-sided conversation, Darcy stood.
“Mrs. Worth, I am grateful for the opportunity, but I fear I may be tiring your grandmother. I apologize for taking up so much of your time. We should depart.”
“I apologize. If there is any moment of clarity, I will ask her about a letter and contact you immediately with her response.”
“I thank you. I am grateful for your willingness to have us visit. Good day.”
Miss Elizabeth rose and curtsied to Mrs. Worth. “Thank you again for having us.”
“Please give Madeline my best and tell her I look forward to our tea Monday next.”
“I will.” A maid handed Miss Elizabeth her wrap and gloves in the hallway.
“Good day, Miss Bennet. Good day, Mr. Darcy.”
An unfamiliar voice from across the room halted them in their steps. “Mr. Darcy? Is the master here all the way from Pemberley?”
“Grandmother?” Mrs. Worth stepped cautiously back into the room. “Did you ask a question?”
“Of course, I did, girl. I thought I heard you say the master was here. But why would he come all the way from Pemberley to London to see me?”
At that question, Darcy walked back in the room and quickly made his way to the seat across from the older woman.
“Mrs. Smith, it is I.”
“Mr. Darcy! It is you, sir,” she smiled brightly. “What brings you to London? Where is my lady?” She looked over her shoulder and upon seeing Miss Elizabeth, scowled.
“This young lady is Miss Elizabeth Bennet, a dear friend to Georgiana.”
“Oh, sir. Now I know you are joking me. Miss Georgiana—or young Master Henry—has not been born yet.”
Darcy gasped but after a moment continued. “Yes, you are correct. This young woman is our future governess for young Fitzwilliam.”
