Page 189 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

“I cannot tell you what Wickham intended on Oakham Mount. I can tell you that secrecy is characteristic of him when openness would interfere with what he wants. He has a history of excessive expenditure, gaming, dishonesty, and improper conduct toward young women. He has left many ruined and some with child.”

Forster's attention sharpened. “That is a serious account of one of my officers.”

“It is the truth, sir.”

“Can you substantiate it?”

“Some of it. Other matters involve people whose privacy I will not violate unless it becomes necessary. I did not come here to ask you to condemn Wickham upon my word alone.”

“What are you asking?”

“That you investigate him.”

Forster was silent.

Darcy continued, “Wickham is agreeable, well educated, and accustomed to being welcomed wherever he goes. Men extend him credit because he appears to be a gentleman, and families admit him to their homes for the same reason. If his conduct in Meryton resembles his conduct elsewhere, I believe inquiries among the tradesmen may tell you a great deal.”

“Debts?”

“I would be surprised if there were none.”

“And the other matter you mentioned? Young women?”

“I would make discreet inquiries there as well.”

Forster rose and went to the window. “Wickham has been well received since joining us. He is popular with the other officers and particularly popular in Meryton.”

“I am aware of his ability to make himself liked,” Darcy said.

Forster faced them again. “If I begin asking questions about one of my own officers, word may reach him.”

“Then do not ask them yourself,” Mr. Bennet said. “Choose a man you trust who knows how to keep his mouth closed. Let him speak to the tradesmen without announcing that the colonel is investigating Lieutenant Wickham. If there is nothing to discover, Wickham need never know we sat in this room.”

“Very well. I shall arrange for the investigation, although I confess I am beginning to fear what we may find.”

Forster returned to his desk.

“I have an officer I can trust with such an inquiry. He will understand the need for discretion.”

Mr. Bennet rose. “That is all I ask.”

Forster looked from him to Mr. Darcy. “I cannot promise what he will find.”

“We are sufficiently satisfied that you are willing to look.”

Forster extended his hand to Mr. Bennet. “You have my word that your daughter's name will not be used during the inquiry.”

Mr. Bennet took it. “Thank you, Colonel.”

Forster then offered his hand to Mr. Darcy. “And if your opinion of Wickham proves justified, Mr. Darcy, I expect we shall have another conversation.”

“I shall make myself available whenever you require it.”

* * *

Four days later, Major Harper entered Colonel Forster's office and closed the door behind him.

Forster looked up from his correspondence. “You have something for me?”