Page 69 of Near Pemberley

“We could have him court-martialled – he is a deserter… during war.”

Darcy looked thoughtful for a moment. “No. I do not want him dead; I want him to suffer. And the lady’s name might make it to the papers.”

“We shall think of something else then. We could decorate his pretty face…”

“That is not a bad idea, but that is not enough. Not anymore.”

After Richard departed to begin enquiries with the assistance of a Bow Street runner – men reputed capable of finding nearly anyone when sufficiently paid – Darcy requested Mrs. Annesley.

She entered with visible surprise at so early a summons.

“You wished to see me, sir?”

Darcy motioned towards a chair, though he himself remained standing.

“I must ask a considerable favour of you.”

Mrs. Annesley looked attentive.

“There is a young lady presently under my protection who requires kindness, discretion, and – above all – calm treatment. She will arrive shortly.”

Mrs. Annesley listened without interruption while Darcy explained only as much as necessity demanded.

He did not speak Lydia Bennet’s name until the very end.

The lady’s face showed profound distress but no vulgar curiosity. “Poor child,” she said in a low voice.

Darcy inclined his head slightly.

“She has undergone severe agitation. I believe shame has frightened her nearly as much as danger itself.”

Mrs. Annesley’s expression softened further. “And Miss Darcy?”

At this, Darcy hesitated briefly. “That is why I wished first to speak with you.”

For several moments, he remained silent. Then more quietly, “There are similarities between this situation and Ramsgate which my sister will recognise almost immediately.”

Mrs. Annesley understood him perfectly.

“And perhaps,” Darcy continued after a pause, “that recognition may ultimately do both girls more good than harm.”

Mrs. Annesley regarded him thoughtfully. “You are thinking less like a guardian today than a brother.”

Something faintly painful crossed Darcy’s face. “Possibly because I have lately reflected upon my own failures.”

She inclined her head. Then with a frown on her face, she said, “This man has a habit of targeting young ladies.”

“I mean to find him.”

“Very good, sir.”

Before Mrs. Annesley stood, the door opened quietly, and Georgiana herself entered.

She stopped upon perceiving Mrs. Annesley already present.

“Oh… I beg pardon. I did not know…”

“No, Georgiana,” said Darcy gently. “Remain, if you please.”