Darcy said nothing, though there was the faintest hint of admiration in his expression.
She turned to Darcy. He offered his arm, and they walked out of the room.
When they left the house, Elizabeth’s carriage was waiting out front. Millie was already inside. They both entered the carriage. The trip to Longbourn was completed mostly in silence. Elizabeth’s thoughts raced, while Darcy remained quietly beside her.
Soon they were driving down the lane. As they drew abreast of the gatehouse, Mr. MacDonald stepped out, his dog standing beside him with its tail wagging slowly.
They paused, and he walked up to the carriage window.
“Miss Elizabeth, I wished to let you know I have been keeping an eye on the place. No one has come about except the Longbourn servants. They were here early this morning to collect some clothing.” He gave a small nod to Millie.
“Thank you for your attention to the house. Have they been sending you meals?”
“Oh yes, ma’am. They brought over some this morning. Even a pie.” He seemed especially pleased with that.
“Very good. Please let us know if you see any trouble or have any concerns.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He tipped his hat and returned to the gatehouse.
As they continued toward the house, the smell of smoke was unmistakable, even in the open air.
When the carriage stopped, Harris opened the door. Darcy stepped down and helped Elizabeth and Millie.
Elizabeth turned to Harris. “Please see that the broken window in the book-room is boarded up. We do not need any animals or intruders in the house. Also, I would like to bring Bramble and Willow back to Netherfield when we leave.”
Harris nodded. “Yes, ma’am. I will get some men on that window right away.”
“Thank you.”
She started toward the house. “Millie, see if you can find some crates so we can bring the ledgers back to Netherfield.”
Millie nodded and headed toward the kitchen. Elizabeth continued into the house. The floorboards were still damp from the water thrown during the night.
Mrs. Hill walked up to her. “We are working on packing up more of the family’s clothing and personal items.”
“Mrs. Hill, I am glad to see you. Were any of the servants injured last night?”
“No, Miss Elizabeth, thank heaven. A few minor burns and scrapes, but nothing serious.”
When they entered the damaged passage, Elizabeth looked around carefully before turning to the housekeeper. “Good. And the fire was contained to this wing?”
“Yes, miss. The bucket line did its work, though the paneling and part of the ceiling are ruined.”
Drawing nearer she examined the wall. “Has the carpenter been sent for?”
“Yes, miss. Mr. Wilmot dispatched a rider at first light.”
“Excellent. We will also need a mason to examine the chimney before any fires are lit again.”
Darcy, who had been quietly observing, spoke. “You expected structural damage?”
Elizabeth glanced at the charred beams. “With heat such as this, it would be foolish not to assume it.”
Darcy gave a small nod of approval.
She studied the damage fa moment longer. “We should have men taking turns guarding the house. We do not want it looted.”
She paused briefly when she saw that one of her mother’s favorite chairs had been scorched along the arm.
