Page 112

William shook his head absentmindedly. “Yes, Bingley stopped by to enquire about Elizabeth.”

“You did not insist that he stay? I would have enjoyed his company.”

“I would have as well, but he would not hear of it. He said he wanted to get an early start back to Netherfield. Jane has not been well since she is with child again, so I imagine it weighs on his mind. The situation with Elizabeth has not been easy on her or Charles.”

“Did Bingley mention that viper, Caroline?”

“Yes. He carried out his plan, and Caroline has accepted his terms. Though I imagine the damage that harridan has wrought is irreversible.”

“Maybe. Maybe not. Besides, when have you ever cared what the ton thought about anything that concerned you. That is one of the things I greatly admire about you—you are your own man. Would that I could be, also!”

William turned to consider Richard, before heading to the liquor cabinet. He poured two glasses of brandy, handing one to his cousin. “Is there something I should know?”

Richard shrugged, sinking down into an overstuffed chair. “If I were not a second son, I would offer for Mrs. Largin. But, alas, I shall have to settle for some woman with a large dowry.”

“What does your father say about it?”

“I have not said anything to him. You know he would not understand. His counsel is always the same—it matters not what woman warms your bed, only that she brings a large dowry into it. It is a wonder that he and mother have such a good marriage.”

“And your mother? What does she say?”

Richard smiled. “She would do everything in her power to see me happy. I have no doubt of that.”

“But you have not told her either.”

“No.”

“Then confide in her. Aunt Evelyn is a formidable woman when she sets her mind to something. I am sure she will think of a solution.”

A deep rumble of laughter burst forth. “That may be what I am afraid of, Darce!” Just as quickly, Richard sobered, stood, and walked to the windows to stare out into the garden.

William joined him, slipping an arm around his shoulder. “And you accuse me of being afraid to speak. You know I will help you in any way I can. I have offered you the estate in Scotland.”

“And I appreciate it, but you know I cannot accept it.” He took a deep breath. “It is just ... I do not want Mrs. Largin to want for anything. She is so beautiful, bright and kind, and she has her children to consider. I am sure she can attract a more suitable husband, someone with a grand estate and a large fortune.”

“Without love, a grand estate and a large fortune mean absolutely nothing. Trust me, I know.” Richard glanced sideways at William, noting a deep sadness on his cousin’s face.

“I am sorry, Darce. Sometimes I am thoughtless. I forget that money does not cure every problem.”

“Nor does the absence of money, apparently.”

William held up his glass in a salute, and Richard returned it. Quickly they drained their glasses.

London

A Townhouse

Grosvenor Square

That same afternoon

As George Wickham strolled into Count Stefano’s study, he found the man sitting behind the large carved desk as usual, feet propped on the edge. From Stefano’s posture, one would assume he had not a care in the world, but Wickham knew better. Rumour among his seedier contacts was that the count was the object of several clandestine investigations, and Wickham wondered if that, more than anything else, precipitated his desire to return to Italy.

Peering about the near empty room stacked with boxes, Wickham offered, “There was no one at the door, so I let myself in.”

“Yes, well my people are getting my things ready for shipment to Italy. I have very little staff still in London.” Taking in Wickham’s attire, he ventured. “To what do I owe the honour of this visit? I have paid you everything you are due, and from the looks of it, you used the money to buy a new wardrobe.”

“I had a new coat or two made, but my reason for being here is to enquire as to whether or not you have located your errant wife?”