Page 55 of The Mistress of All & Torn

Darcy averted his eyes. “It might have appeared so, but even if we had some disagreements, I have always admired Miss Bennet. And I hope her opinion of me has changed for the better lately.”

“Darcy, I have long wished to confess something. Several months ago you told me about a friend that you saved from an inappropriate relationship. Was that friend Bingley?”

“Yes,” Darcy admitted after a moment of hesitation.

“And the lady was Miss Bennet’s sister? The present Mrs. Bingley?”

“Yes.”

The colonel filled himself a glass of brandy, under Darcy’s reproachful glare. It was not even breakfast time.

“You see...when we were in Kent, one day I joined Miss Bennet for a walk. And we spoke of you somehow...I cannot remember why, but I mentioned to her that you congratulated yourself on having saved a friend from the inconvenience of a most imprudent marriage. I noticed immediately that her countenance had changed, as she probably guessed who I meant. And I remember she did not join the Collinses at Rosings that afternoon. Then the following day we returned to town.”

Darcy stared at his cousin, his chest suddenly feeling unbearably tight. The incident most certainly occurred on the day of his proposal. The confirmation of his interference between Jane and Bingley surely had added to her previous anger and induced her fierce accusations.

“I am truly sorry,” the colonel added.

“It is all over now,” Darcy responded. There was nothing else to be said or done.

“I have not yet congratulated Bingley and his wife. Perhaps I will meet them tonight? May I join you for dinner?”

Darcy hesitated again, pondering his answer.

“Cousin, you are always welcome in my house, no invitation is ever needed. I know Bingley would be happy to see you. But please allow me to speak to Lady Barrington first. She is not comfortable with her appearance yet...I do not wish to trouble her further. I am certain she would be pleased to see you too, at a convenient time. I hope you do not mind.”

“Not at all. I do not want to impose—send me a note later regarding dinner. And please assure Lady Barrington of my consideration and my support.”

“I will.”

The colonel departed and Darcy remained lost in his thoughts for a while. The knowledge of Robert’s indiscretion brought back painful memories of his failed proposal. Perhaps if the colonel had not spoken so unguardedly, if Elizabeth was not so furious, if he had chosen his words more carefully and not offended her and her family, things might have been different. It was unlikely that she would have accepted him anyway, but perhaps they would have been able to talk more reasonably. He might have admitted his intervention and promised to make amends. They would have separated on more civil terms, and perhaps then she would not have been desperate enough to accept Barrington to save her family.

Yes, they all shared a significant part of the blame, just as Bingley had said.

Chapter 18

Elizabeth was awakened by sunshine resting on her face. The tender, warm touch startled her and a sense of panic enveloped her for a moment. Then she closed her eyes and allowed herself to be spoiled by the comfort of the silky sheets, reflecting upon her situation.

Only a day ago, her husband had been buried, placing her in the middle of unexpected and life-changing circumstances. Then, the previous night, she had spent more than an hour in private conversation with Darcy. His presence and their shared confidence had helped her to find a little bit of rest and tranquillity.

With renewed strength and hope, she rang for the maid and began to prepare for a new, tormenting day.

Before breakfast, Elizabeth met Jane, then together they visited Sarah. They found the girl sitting up against the pillows, her state significantly improved. In a corner of the room, Janey, the maid who took care of Sarah, was waiting.

“My dear Sarah, you look so much better. How do you feel?” Elizabeth asked, approaching the bed.

“Lady Barrington, I beg your forgiveness...If Janey could help me stand up, I will...”

“What are you apologising for? Stand up? No indeed! You will not even consider leaving your bed until the doctor approves!”

“Oh, my lady, you are hurt! Are you in pain?” Sarah exclaimed, pale with worry as she stared at Elizabeth.

“I am well, my dear. The bruises look worse than they truly are. Soon enough they will fade. Tell me, how are you feeling? Are you in pain? Have you eaten something today?”

“Do not worry about me, my lady. I am fine and I can attend my duties at any time.”

“She has not eaten anything yet, my lady,” Janey answered. “I was about to bring her breakfast now.”

“Thank you, Janey, that would be lovely,” Elizabeth said. “Please do so, we will stay with Sarah until you return.”