Page 68 of The Mistress of All & Torn

His animated statement stirred Georgiana’s curiosity. She watched her brother intently and silently, as they finished their breakfast.

“I hope to meet Lady Barrington again soon. She seems a remarkable lady.”

“You will, dearest. The only reason I did not ask you to join us for tea or dinner while she stayed at my house is that...Lady Barrington was uncomfortable with her appearance. She considered it would be too unpleasant for you to witness the proof of her past distress. She mentioned to me that she would send you an invitation as soon as she is ready to entertain.”

“Brother, I saw...” Georgiana whispered. “I could not believe it. The bruises and the marks on her neck. Did he...? Aunt Matlock was appalled and shocked too!”

“Georgiana, are you sure this conversation is not too distressing for you?”

“I am sure. I would rather know if you are at liberty to tell me.”

“As you wish. In short, Lord Barrington’s entire marriage was a scheme to inherit his aunt’s large fortune, and then to become a widow and use it as he pleased. He needed an honourable woman, of genteel breeding, with the right qualities to gain his aunt’s approval. Miss Bennet happened to be his victim. Her father had just suffered a stroke, and they feared he would die. Since his estate was entailed, they believed they would lose their home and means to survive. So Miss Bennet decided to sacrifice herself and marry a man whose character she suspected to be faulty. It was a business arrangement, accepted also by his aunt, Lady Sedgewick. Apparently, the lady discovered Miss Bennet’s worthiness and readily accepted her as a successor for her charities. Their affection was mutual and Miss Bennet—Lady Barrington—accepted the requirements and responsibilities attached to her new position. Sadly, after Lady Sedgewick’s death, Lord Barrington revealed his true intentions and his vicious character.”

“How awful!”

“I cannot provide you with more details, except that for two months, Lady Barrington and many of the staff were in great danger. She had to fight every day for her own life and the lives of those around her, while she was not allowed to contact her family or friends.”

“Dear Lord! Poor Lady Barrington, what she must have suffered!”

“She is indeed the bravest woman I have ever met and this is just another reason to admire her,” Darcy concluded. “I am sorry if I troubled you, my dear, but it is likely that gossip and false reports have already been spread around town. It is better that you know the truth.”

“Thank you for trusting me. I am troubled, as anyone would be. I never imagined an educated man might act so cruelly and despicably. And an earl! Such deception, such betrayal of all that is good and honourable!” Georgiana said with growing trepidation.

“Unfortunately, connections, wealth, situation in life, or even a good education do not guarantee a righteous character and honourable behaviour.”

“I shall never marry,” Georgiana whispered, and Darcy felt torn between smiling and grieving.

“There is plenty of time before we need to consider your marriage, my dear. I am glad we had the chance to talk at length today.”

“So am I, brother. Will you see Lady Barrington again soon?”

“Probably. I have received no news since she moved. I will meet Uncle Matlock at the club today and on my way home, I might call on her ladyship.”

“Please convey her my best regards!”

“I will.”

Chapter 21

The conversation with Georgiana, although it consisted of things already familiar to him, had further fuelled his outrage at the story. The apprehension in his sister’s eyes made him reflect on those young servant girls that had suffered Lord Barrington’s abuse. And now the earl was dead, Darcy’s fury turned towards those who had been close to him and likely even witnessed some of his depraved actions. Lambert, St. Claire and many others could also be expected to behave in the same manner towards those under their authority.

As the carriage took him to the club, Darcy decided that he would discuss the matter with his uncle, Judge Darcy. Although he was certain that nothing could be done in such a situation—a man was the master of his own household and had complete power over it, as well as over his wife.

As a gentleman raised and educated with respect for social status and position, Darcy was given good principles and taught to apply them fairly and honourably. He followed the rules of society but rarely questioned or challenged them.

The suffering endured by Elizabeth and the young maids had revealed the ugly and hidden face of some of his peers. As a man in a privileged position, he could fight against injustice. But a woman, as bright and brave as she might be, or even a man with little means or connections, would meet little success in escaping from abuse and ill-treatment.

Darcy arrived at the club just after noon. His uncle had invited him, and he suspected Lord Matlock was also curious about Elizabeth. Colonel Fitzwilliam was out of town, but his eldest cousin, David Fitzwilliam, the viscount, would be there too. Why Lord Matlock had preferred to meet at the club instead of one of their houses, Darcy failed to understand.

The butler bent in a most formal bow of welcome.

“His lordship is at his usual table, he is expecting you, sir!”

“Thank you.” Darcy stepped into the crowded room. All the tables were occupied by gentlemen with whom he was already acquainted.

He stopped when he noticed his uncle—usually a reserved man—standing up, addressing three young men at the opposite table.

“Did I hear you correctly, Blackmore? Did you just mock my nephew and offend an honourable lady who has been a victim of deception and cruelty?”