Page 52 of Through the Eyes of Love

When the threesomewas about to leave the table that evening, Richard stood and said, “Elizabeth, I was unsure about you marrying Darcy, but seeing the joyfulness you bring my cousin is all I need to welcome you wholeheartedly into our family. I would like to propose a toast to Elizabeth Bennet Darcy, the only woman in England who could have succeeded in charming my stoic, dour cousin.”

“I shall gladly drink to that!” Once that had been accomplished, Darcy offered his arm to his wife and accompanied her from the dinner table.

While they enjoyed their tea in the drawing room, Richard began to speak, then stopped and looked at Darcy.

“Out with it. Elizabeth and I have no secrets.”

“So, she knows all about our old. . .friend?”

“She does.”

“Very well. As you know, we located his living quarters months ago, but to bring any criminal charges against him, we needed to catch him in the act of selling your mother’s jewels. The Bow Street Runners followed him closely and discovered that every Monday morning, he frequented the same jewellery shop, evidently to raise the funds necessary for another week of debauchery. I beg your pardon, madam.”

“No need; any story about how that evil man was captured is most welcome.”

Richard recounted the events that took place in London and described how the blood drained from Wickham’s face when he saw Richard enter the shop. Darcy wished he could have been there to see it for himself. Richard laughed when he related how he could still hear Wickham screaming as he was driven to gaol. “He confessed that after he set the fire, he waited in the woods near the house and watched until the building was completely ablaze. The miscreant had no idea you and Georgie had survived.” Darcy could not believe his ears, considering what might have happened. Surely Wickham was not that depraved—yet Richard’s tale proved it was so. “I received word last month that George Wickham died in a knife fight aboard ship and was buried at sea.”

As happy as he had been to know Wickham had been caught, this was more than expected. Darcy was saddened by the news of his former friend’s untimely demise. He missed the carefree days he shared with George when they were young boys. “I doubt he would have changed his ways even if hehadarrived safely.”

“Such is the unfortunate ending of the wretched life of Mr. Wickham,” said Elizabeth. “Do you think we should tell Georgiana what happened to the scoundrel?”

“I believe she is better off not hearing his name ever spoken again,” Darcy said.

“Yes, I agree. I thank you both for a lovely dinner and if I am not imposing, may I call on you in the morning?”

“You know you are welcome here any time.”

“Until tomorrow. Goodnight to you both.”

* * *

True to his word,Richard arrived before the Darcys had finished breakfast and was shown into the dining room. “Good morning! Would you like something to eat?” Darcy’s heart warmed at seeing his cousin again.

“I ate earlier at the inn, but Iwouldlike some coffee.” Elizabeth rose and poured their guest a cupful, and Richard took a seat with them. “Darcy, I cannot remember you ever eating breakfast so late. You are usually an early riser.”

“I am enjoying my bed more now that I am married. You should try it yourself sometime.” His wife lowered her face and turned pink at his answer. He smiled as he reached out and covered her hand with his. This morning had been one of particular pleasure, and he had not wanted to leave Elizabeth’s side in their bed.

“Yes, well, I shall have to give that some thought. I wanted to talk to you about riding.”

Darcy’s mood immediately turned dark, and he scowled. “What do you mean? I thought I made my stance on that subject clear when you were here after the fire.”

“Yes, that is when you told me you would never ride again. After I was here for your wedding, I took the liberty of calling on Mr. Pauling in London.”

“What could Pauling possibly have to say? He knew exactly how injured I was after the fire. Without Elizabeth’s help, I would still be relying on my cane to walk farther than the garden.”

“I told him how much progress you had made walking long distances and getting around without help. He told me if you can walk that well, naught prevents you from riding. Your leg injury might necessitate help mounting, but there is no reason not to try. Perhaps you and your lovely wife can ride together, and she can enjoy the true extent of Pemberley’s beauty. Also, your kind physician asked me to send along his best wishes on your marriage.”

“I cannot believe it! I never thought to try. My love, will you ride with me?” His previously stiffened frame relaxed now that he had this to look forward to.

“I would be delighted although I have not ridden since. . .since last year.” He was certain she had not been on a horse since her father died and it appeared that her enthusiasm had faded. It was up to him to encourage her.

“There is no time like the present. Shall we all adjourn to the stables?”

“I must have a riding habit made before I can join you since I did not bring mine with me from Hertfordshire. Iwouldlike to watch.”

* * *

Darcy was warmly greetedby the stablemen who, before the fire, were accustomed to seeing him several times a day.