“There were a number of bequests, to loyal servants and the like. These are all connected to the earldom and as to the rest, there is no one else to inherit. Lord Carrington’s will declared males of his body as recipients, and no son was yet born to the viscount. Aside from his three sons, there were no other male Carringtons alive. Any bequest made to either of the other Carrington sons became null and void upon their deaths.” He opened his hands out palms up, as if to emphasize the loss of life.
“The viscount’s widow and daughters have their own arrangements, but those monies had been set up in trust.”
Brushing his hands facetiously together as though dusting off something foul, the young man went back to discussing property details. “There is also a townhouse in Mayfair, although I cannot say what condition it is in.” Mr Vane ticked off the last item on a list in front of him.
“Can the smaller properties be sold, or are they part of the earldom?” Without an influx of income Elizabeth did not know how she would be able to resuscitate the Carrington estate. Especially with its reputation of being in such ill repair.
“Most are tied to the earldom. We shall check to see if any can be sold,” Mr Graham nodded at his associate, who made a notation in a notebook.
“Mrs Carrington, I sincerely regret the financial situation you are inheriting. Currently, there is not much ready cash due to the poor yields, however the estates were all profitable in the past. It is only through the former earl’s tenure when things went poorly. Your husband’s grandfather had been a good man.” Adding under his breath, “If perhaps too indulgent with his son.”
Mr Gardiner leant forward in his seat. “Are there any investments, or other ways money has been safeguarded?”
“Whatever there was has been long since emptied to pay off the earl’s and viscount’s debts. Neither were successful gamblers and refused to admit it, even to themselves. I imagine it is the reason the old earl made a play for Captain Carrington’s funds.” He gave a little nod in Elizabeth’s direction.
Elizabeth wiped a hand across her forehead. Her mind raced from all the information and the responsibilities now hers to bear. “I think I am going to need help. This,” she flipped a hand in a circle, “Is well beyond my experience with Longbourn.”
“Madam, Mr Darcy has an excellent reputation for being a responsible and successful landowner. It is our recommendation he be asked to consult on your new and complex situation.”
She turned her head to look out the window and was quiet.
“Lizzy,” Jane touched her arm. “Nothing need be decided on today. It is a lot to take in.”
A delicate cough from the younger man caught her attention, causing Elizabeth to raise one eyebrow at him. Seeing he had gained her attention, Mr Vane shot a quick glance to his superior, who responded with a slow nod.
“Mrs Carrington,” he stopped to clear his throat. “Forgive me, but you may wish to assign a guardian for Lord Carrington,” hefinished in a rush of words. His face tinted pink with everyone’s attention focused on him.
“Mr and Mrs Gardiner are his godparents.”
He coughed again and grew even redder. “A guardian, with good standing in theTon. This gentleman could be his official guardian until Lord Carrington comes of age.”
“I am his mother, decisions made for his care, wellbeing and future lie with me.” The glare Elizabeth aimed at Mr Vane caused him to sink back into his seat.
“Lizzy, I believe it may be for the best. Alex will benefit from having one of his peers standing up for him.” Mr Gardiner met her eyes in earnest calm.
“I will not have some strange man telling me what I may or may not do withmyson. I am his mother; I carried him and birthed him. If anyone thinks they have a stronger say over me, I will walk away now and take the path I originally set for us.”
Knowing her as well as they did, they could see Elizabeth was going to be stubborn and not listen with an open mind. Mr Gardiner’s eyes met his wife’s and in silent agreement decided not to push the topic at that time. “We shall discuss it later.”
Her eyes flashed at her uncle, before turning back to the solicitors. “Mr Graham, is there anything else I need to know?”
“Just one more point. Be assured we are still investigating the circumstances of the fire and the consequent deaths. However, knowing someone has been watching, I strongly advise security for both you and the young lord. Personal bodyguards and men to patrol around the residence, as well. We will, of course, let you know should new information come to light.” The two gentlemen stood and everyone followed suit.
“Mrs Carrington, if I may, I have spent my whole career serving the lords and gentry of Society. There are some amongst them who I would deem untrustworthy to hold the role of guardian, however, I can attest to there being honourable men you may trust with your son’s life and fortune.
“Now, here are the keys to the townhouse. The butler and housekeeper have been informed you will be in contact with them.And the information on all the other properties is written down here.
“We, at Wildeman and Graham, should be more than happy to continue our business relationship with the earl. Please let us know at any time we can be of further assistance.” He offered a low bow at the end of his speech.
“Thank you, Mr Graham. I assure you, I will be in contact with any queries which may arise.” Elizabeth nodded to both men.
Mr Gardiner moved in the direction of the door. “Gentlemen, I will show you out.”
Not prepared to hear Mr and Mrs Gardiner’s arguments in favour of a guardian, whether she had a choice about it or not, Elizabeth made her excuses to spend time with Alex and left.
~ / ~
An hour later, feeling calmer she rejoined Jane and her aunt.
