Page 134 of Bitterness of Spirit & The Painting

Chapter 5

Elizabeth and her party returned home soon after midday, exhausted but happy. Protected by the privacy offered by the bathing machine, they had indulged themselves in as much sea bathing as they liked. Behind the machine, she discovered she could even swim a little, supported by her cousins’ cheering. George—the eldest—joined her in her attempt at exercise, much to the disappointment of the other children, who were forced to remain with their mother. Mrs Gardiner, Jane, Mary and Kitty did not move even an inch away from the machine, but their enjoyment was no less.

On their way back, when they were about to enter the garden of their cottage, the Gardiner children met a girl and a boy, playing with an English setter puppy. Their new acquaintances—Annie and James—appeared to be around Margaret’s age and the six children, as well as the dog, became good friends during the few minutes they spent together. When Mrs Gardiner insisted that it was time to rest and that they would be allowed to play together later in the afternoon, she was met with strong opposition from her children. Luckily, the other two were also called by their mother and they disappeared—together with their puppy—into the garden of the neighbouring house.

At home, Elizabeth found a note from Mrs Forster, inviting her to call whenever she chose. The colonel’s wife informed her that Lydia was being properly taken care of and that the other Miss Bennets were also welcome to visit them at any time.

“Mrs Forster is all kindness. She seems very attached to Lydia,” Elizabeth said.

“I imagine she is; Lydia is very fond of her too. From what I have seen, she is a lovely lady,” Jane agreed.

“Should we visit her later today? I would like to see Lydia as soon as possible.”

“Of course. But Lizzy, I am afraid Lydia will not agree to leave Mrs Forster and stay with us.”

“Probably not. But we should leave her with no choice. The more I reflect on this situation, the more I believe she should not be left alone in a camp full of officers. She is too young to guard her manners and too unwise to make good decisions.”

“I hope Mrs Forster will not be offended by us taking Lydia from her guardianship.”

“We will be careful in our request. We will tell her that this is a unique opportunity for Lydia to spend more time with our cousins, who miss her. Besides, Lydia may still visit Mrs Forster and attend her parties. Perhaps accompanied by at least one of us.”

“Lizzy, is there something particular that worries you? You are very impatient to take Lydia from a place that has been approved by Papa, and I cannot understand why.”

Elizabeth hesitated briefly.

“I am worried and impatient. Papa should not have allowed her to leave. A young, pretty girl could be easily deceived by men who are in search of entertainment, with no regard for the harm they may cause others.”

“You mean Mr Wickham?”

“Yes. But he is surely not the only one,” Elizabeth replied. “Since we are here, we can offer our youngest sister all the care and attention she requires at her tender age. I will write to Papa right away and ask him to support me. And I am sure Aunt Madeline will agree with me too.”

“Very well, Lizzy. I am always on your side as you well know. Oh, listen! That beautiful tune again! I am very curious to know who is playing.”

“So am I. I will ask Mrs Crawford—I am sure she must know. It is beautiful,” Elizabeth agreed. “Truly beautiful.”

∞∞∞

The clock had barely passed midday when Darcy returned from his ride and withdrew to his chamber. He had had the chance to observe the houses of the families mentioned by Mrs Clarke; all of them were animated, with many people around, but nothing particular caught his attention. In the end, he did not even know what he was searching for, what clue did he expect to find, thirty years after some event might or might not have occurred there?

He poured himself a glass of wine, then took a chair near the window. He was so tired—in body and soul—that a long sea bathe seemed the perfect remedy. But he felt too uncomfortable to be in company and even less to make new acquaintances.

There was a knock at the door and then Stevens’ voice was heard, “Sir, Mr Bingley has just arrived.”

Darcy put his glass aside, standing up.

“Has he? Are the chambers ready for him and his men?”

“Of course. He asked if—”

Before the servant had time to finish, Bingley barged in, wearing his usual smile and a delighted expression on his face.

“Darcy! How wonderful to see you!”

“Likewise, my friend. I hope you travelled well?”

“Very well, thank you! But what are you doing in Brighton?”

“I have some business here.”