Darcy, who had commented on the interminable nature of the journey from Pemberley to London, shook his head in mock despair. “As Netherfield is only four hours from London, I have never needed to concern myself much with the business of long travel. Much more planning accompanies a residence in the north.”
“That is true,” agreed Fitzwilliam. “Take heed, though, Darcy, that you do not complain too much. At present, there are only the three of us, and, of course, our excellent Mrs. Younge.” The woman nodded but said nothing. “After you are married and children arrive, you may need two or even three carriages to transport them all, to say nothing of servants and baggage.”
Darcy groaned, but Fitzwilliam was not yet finished.
“We have relations that live in Cumberland, so when you considertwicethe distance to Pemberley, perhaps it would be best to consider how much worse it could be.”
“No more, Fitzwilliam,” said Darcy. “I dare say you have made your point.”
“What do you think, Georgiana?” asked Fitzwilliam, turning a lazy look on his young cousin. “Have I tormented Darcy enough?”
Georgiana could not speak for her mirth; a hand placed over her mouth stifled the worst of her giggles. Darcy glared at Fitzwilliam, but he knew the other man was feigning his affront, for unlike Jameson, he did not lack the ability to laugh at himself.
“Then I suppose there is nothing to be done but endure it.”
“With wealth comes privilege and the ability to make such journeys easier. Trust me, Darcy—having campaigned in Spain, I am well acquainted with the monotony of traveling excessive distances.”
For a time thereafter, they spoke of the peninsula campaign and the state of the war on the continent. Though Darcy was no tactician and had no experience in soldiering, he showed an excellent understanding of the strategic position and could speak with intelligence about the future of the war effort. The ladies did not participate, Georgiana being too young and uninterested in such things. After a time, she spoke up to change the subject.
“Anthony, you are to return to your regiment?”
“It is unfortunate, but yes,” said Fitzwilliam. “The loss of your favorite cousin must be a trial to bear, but I am certain with the company of Miss Kitty and her sisters, you will have no cause to repine.”
“At leasttheydo not consider everything a joke,” retorted Georgiana.
Then she turned to Darcy. “Thank you for allowing me to stay with you at Netherfield, Cousin. I am anticipating my reunion.”
Fitzwilliam noted that Mrs. Younge did not appear to appreciate the reminder, but again, she did not speak. What she was about, Fitzwilliam could not say, for he did not suppose that Miss Kitty was anything other than an estimable lady, even if she was a little too lively.
“I expect Miss Kitty is in the same state as you are, Georgiana,” said Darcy.
“What of my guardianship?” asked Georgiana, turning to Fitzwilliam. “Has Uncle sent any news of its disposition?”
“Not yet, but he has only been in town a short time. I expect word to come of the details within the week.”
Georgiana chewed at her lip, perhaps showing a hint of nervousness. “What if Lady Catherine comes to Netherfield and demands that I go to Kent with her?”
“Should that happen, Darcy has my full authority and that of my father to resist any attempt to take custody of you. Once the solicitor sends confirmation, Darcy may do as he pleases.”
“Do you suppose shewill?”
“The workings of Lady Catherine’s mind are beyond my ability to understand,” said Fitzwilliam. “I do not think for an instant that we have seen the end of her, but how she will act is a mystery.”
“If you will pardon my saying it,” said Darcy, “your aunt is of such a disposition that abhors being denied sufficient to make any action to get her way within the realm of what is possible.”
“That much is certain,” agreed Fitzwilliam. “Father may need to deal with her on a more permanent basis, for her actions may cause a stain on the family.”
Darcy grinned. “Do you suppose it is Bedlam for her?”
“Lady Catherine is not mad, Darcy, though she sometimes gives the appearance of it. Rosings Park belongs to Anne, though she has never contended with her mother for control of the estate. Should Father press Anne’s claim and remove Lady Catherine to the dower house, that would neuter much of her current power.”
“I will remain vigilant, regardless.”
Fitzwilliam nodded his thanks. Soon thereafter, they retired to their rooms for the night, earlier than had been their wont while at Pemberley. Darcy’s comments about the inconvenience of the journey were not ill-considered, such that a good night’s sleep was nearly a necessity when traveling all day.
THE IMPATIENCE EXPANDINGin Darcy’s chest was near to bursting by the time they sighted Netherfield through the trees early in the afternoon two days later. Darcy had considered pushing on the previous day to arrive at Netherfield late the previous evening, and he suspected he might take that avenue the next time he traveled between the two estates. Georgiana’s wilting fatigue and the lateness of the day had convinced him to stop when he had not wished to do so.
Now, of course, Georgiana was not in the least weary, for she was bouncing with excitement at the imminent arrival at Netherfield, and more particularly for the proposed visit to Longbourn. After arriving so early in the day, Darcy wouldnot countenance another delay before he was once again in Elizabeth’s company. Now that he had returned, he knew there were only two weeks until his nuptials, and he was resolved that nothing would postpone them again!
