“I did. Three thousand pounds.”
Elizabeth shook her head slightly. “More than sufficient to establish himself, had he chosen to do so.”
Darcy inclined his head. “He did not.”
He drew a breath before continuing. “This past summer, my sister Georgiana, who is ten years younger than I, travelled to Ramsgate with a companion. That woman was secretly in league with Wickham.”
Elizabeth’s hand tightened in her lap. “No…”
“He followed. He persuaded her that he loved her and convinced her they should elope.”
Elizabeth leaned forward. “Please tell me…”
“She is safe,” Darcy said at once. “I arrived before the attempt. She confessed everything immediately. Wickham was dismissed, and the companion sent away. But my sister has not yet recovered her spirits.”
Elizabeth was silent for a moment.
“What I do not understand,” she said slowly, “is why he wished to speak with me.”
Darcy exhaled. “That may be my doing. He has likely perceived my interest in you.”
Elizabeth looked up. “Interest?”
Darcy hesitated only briefly. “Yes.” He gestured toward the bench. “May I?”
She nodded.
He sat beside her. After a moment, he said quietly, “Am I welcome?”
Elizabeth hesitated, then met his gaze. “I have very much enjoyed your company. I had not considered that you might mean more than friendship.”
“Elizabeth,” he said gently.
She smiled, a little more certain now. “Yes. You are welcome. I am glad you are here.”
Darcy rose. “Should I speak to your father regarding Wickham? He is not a man to be trusted.”
Elizabeth shook her head. “I am not certain my father would treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.”
Darcy frowned. “But your safety…”
“Yes, precautions will be necessary,” she said thoughtfully. “But first, I believe we should speak with Charlotte Lucas.”
“Miss Lucas?” Darcy asked.
Elizabeth stood. “You will understand presently. We shall call on her this evening.”
Darcy’s expression shifted. “Ah. Yes.” He inclined his head. “An excellent plan.”
***
Shortly after luncheon, Mr. Bennet had returned to his favorite chair. He was debating between a short nap and another chapter of his book when there came a knock at the door, immediately followed by Mr. Collins entering the room.
Mr. Collins approached with great solemnity. “Mr. Bennet, I feel I must speak with you.”
Mr. Bennet removed his spectacles and rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Again?”
Mr. Collins looked momentarily disconcerted. “Yes. I believe I should review the ledgers.”
