“I should be delighted.”
Leading William into the foyer, Elizabeth motioned for Daniels to take his hat and gloves. She was very curious to see how he would interact with the children. Thus far, he had mentioned very little of his daughter.
On entering, the Gardiner children suddenly became quiet and politely rose from where they were sitting. Margaret and Grace had been embroidering handkerchiefs, while Edward and Matthew were working on a project at the table.
“Mr. Darcy, these are my cousins: Miss Margaret Gardiner, Miss Grace, and Masters Edward and Matthew Gardiner. Children, this is Mr. Darcy.”
“It is a pleasure to meet all of you.” William offered a slight bow as the boys did the same and the girls curtseyed.
“Mr. Darcy, would you like to see what we are working on?” Matthew, the younger boy, asked unreservedly.
“Very much so,” William replied, seeing a variety of tarnished watch parts and gears spread over an oilcloth.
“Last week, Papa brought home this box of timepieces that were either broken or taken apart, and he challenged us to see what we could make of them,” Edward, the elder, boasted. “Mama said we could work here this afternoon where the light is better.”
“I see; may I join you while we are waiting for your mother?”
“Please,” Edward enthusiastically answered, offering William a chair next to his own.
“My, this is quite an assortment,” he said in amusement. “I would say, with so many parts at your disposal, you are going to be busy for many weeks to come.” He began looking through the box until he found a lightly tarnished gold casing with matching crowns and a wind lever. “These seem to be rather serviceable,” he said, putting the items down on the cloth.”
“Cousin Lizzy, look what Mr. Darcy has found!” Matthew exclaimed, holding up the casing. “The crown and lever fit perfectly.”
“That they do,” she answered, taking the old casing in hand and admiring the craftsmanship. Reaching for a small cloth, she began polishing the dull edges. “There appears to be a flower embossed on the cover. I think it will look quite lovely after it is thoroughly cleaned.”
Examining a main spring and several parts of a barrel, William added, “I wonder if any of these pieces might fit together.”
“May I try?” asked Matthew.
“Certainly.”
After manoeuvring the pieces for a few seconds, Matthew was able to snap them in place. Edward immediately produced some tiny screws and a small pen knife to secure the unit.
“Excellent!” William complimented the boys, who beamed with pride.
Looking at Elizabeth, William gave her a broad smile. “It seems your cousins are very ingenious. I have no doubt they will be successful assembling at least one watch from this extensive offering.”
She smiled in return saying, “I have no doubt of that.”
“Cousin Lizzy, Papa will be surprised when he comes home,” Matthew said, clapping his hands together. “Mr. Darcy, wouldyou not prefer to stay here this afternoon and help us?” His look was hopeful. “I think it would be far more interesting than going to the bookshop.”
“Hmmm, a tempting prospect, but I fear I have made a commitment to the ladies of the house.” He could see the disappointment on their faces. “If it is not too late when we return, perhaps I can take another look and evaluate what progress you have made before I take my leave.”
The boys were pleased and began conversing with one another about how to proceed, not taking notice of their mother, who now entered the room.
“Good afternoon, Mr. Darcy,” said Mrs. Gardiner. “I see my sons have commandeered your attention while I was detained.”
“That they have,” he said, immediately rising. “Your husband has provided them with an admirable undertaking.”
“Mama,” said Matthew with enthusiasm, “Mr. Darcy said he would check our work after you return from the bookshop.”
“We shall see,” Mrs. Gardiner said giving her sons a knowing look. “Mr. Darcy is very generous with his time, but he may have other things to attend to today, and we must not impose upon him if that is the case.”
“Yes, Mama,” the boys obediently said.
“Mrs. Gardiner, it would be no trouble, I assure you.”
“Very well.” She could see her sons were happy with the prospect. “In that case, I believe we should take our leave. Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth?”
