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William was quick to reply. “Please understand. David was like a brother to me, so I cannot accept your kind offer.” She started to protest, but William held up a hand. “I have no doubt that he would do the same for me had the situation been reversed. I beg you not to bring up the subject again.”

Sighing, Jane nodded in acquiescence.

“What are your plans, Darcy?” Richard asked.

“As soon as all the files are packed, we shall remove to London and attempt to locate Eliz … Miss Elizabeth.”

“She refuses to stay at our townhouse; therefore, you should find her at our aunt and uncle’s house near Cheapside,” Jane declared. “I think you recall that they reside on Gracechurch Street.”

“I do. Now, is there anything else you wish to tell us?” William asked.

“Nothing I can recall at the moment.”

“Richard and I will leave at daybreak for London, so should you think of anything else we should know, please inform us before then.”

Chapter 6

London

A day later

From the outset of their trip, Darcy appeared to have an overwhelming sense of apprehension, which had resulted in a challenging silence that Richard had little luck penetrating. Attempting one last time to coax his cousin into a conversation as they reached the outskirts of London, Richard said, “I need to know what your plans are so that I will know how to approach General Lassiter in regard to being available to help you.”

Roused from his woolgathering, William replied, “I am sorry, Richard, my thoughts were engaged elsewhere. What did you say?”

“I said I need to know what your plans are so that I will know how to approach General Lassiter regarding being of help to you. Knowing how meticulously you keep everything organised in that keen mind of yours, I am certain you have already worked out what you plan to do first. So, what will it be? Locate Miss Bennet, meet with Mr. Humphrey’s business partner to obtain Lord Morgan’s files, interview James Morgan or strategise with your solicitor and Mr. Graves?”

William sighed heavily. “Since Lady Morgan is first and foremost worried about her sister, I do not believe I have a choice.”

Richard laughed. “Great minds think alike, for I had come to that conclusion as well.”

“Seeing as how Miss Elizabeth left for London just before I was to arrive at Netherfield Park, it is clear she still does not wish to be in my company. Moreover, I am certain she will not take kindly to any advice I might impart. In fact, she would likely do the opposite just to prove her independence.”

“Truly? You think her that contrary?”

“I think her that set in her ways. Consequently, it might be best if you call at the Gardiner’s without me. In Kent, Miss Elizabeth seemed to smile at you often enough, thus she may hear you out with an unbiased attitude.”

“She did seem to enjoy my stories,” Richard declared with a wry smile. Then he sobered. “Methinks she is not the only one who does not wish to see someone. Tell me the truth. If I could marry wherever I wish, would you be upset if I offered for Miss Elizabeth?”

“Why would you say such a thing?” an agitated William declared, tossing the book he had been pretending to read throughout their journey at his cousin.

“Because your reaction would tell me immediately whether your heart is still set on her.” Richard smiled. “And, apparently, it is.”

William pulled back a curtain to see they were nearing Darcy House. Sighing heavily, he said, “I do not think I shall ever be able to say I no longer love Elizabeth; subsequently, my intention is to avoid her unless circumstances demand I must be in her company. So, to answer your question, it would be impossible for us to stay close friends if you married her.”

Richard nodded. “I thought as much.” Then he reached to pat his cousin’s arm. “Not to worry, Cousin. I do not intend to marry the woman who will always own your heart. Moreover, I shall be glad to act as a buffer between the two of you whilst you handle Lady Morgan’s affairs.”

“Thank you. I will need all the help I can get, as Lady Morgan’s problems seem insurmountable at present, and I must keep focused on them.”

“I hope your solicitor and Mr. Graves can be of help regarding Lord Morgan’s will. It would be wonderful if you could prove Lady Morgan is entitled to more than James Morgan claims.”

“I pray that is the case.”

The Gardiners’ residence

Cheapside

As Richard waited in the Gardiners’ parlour to speak with Elizabeth’s uncle, he marvelled at how beautifully appointed the house was. It was a surprise to learn that a man of trade could live so well. He was also eager to meet the person for whom Miss Bennet felt so much admiration whenever she had mentioned him in Kent.