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“Morgan is either not involved or is excellent at feigning innocence. Still, we will try to learn where he was at the time of the murders. I have a friend—a retired sergeant—whom I can trust to investigate Morgan’s whereabouts around the time of the murders and to uncover any disreputable associates he may have. Mayhap, if he was involved, he has not covered his tracks as well as he imagines.”
“Was he able to provide you with a copy of the more recent will?” Jane continued.
To this question, William replied, “He claims not to have a copy—that he gave the one he had to his solicitor; however, he did say he would have a copy sent to us.”
“I see,” Jane responded, her shoulders slumping in disappointment. “So, I suppose a quick solution to my problem is not to be had.”
“I am afraid it does not look as though it can be readily resolved,” William said.
“When is Mr. Graves supposed to return to London?”
Again, William replied, “I got a letter this morning saying he would be back next week and would begin a study of your case immediately.”
“Should we declare our engagement now?” Jane asked. “And how shall we do that without inviting criticism or scornful gossip?”
“I have given it some thought,” William responded.
That shocked Richard, for his cousin had said nothing to him about it; thus, he listened dumbstruck whilst William laid out the perfect plan.
“I think it would be uncouth, what with your present condition, to formally announce our engagement in the newspapers. Better that a rumour be circulated in the gossip sheets … most would likely believe that, in any case.”
When neither Jane nor Richard replied, he continued. “I will ask Richard’s mother, Lady Matlock, to help by spreading the news. She will know just whom to tell so that it ends up in the gossip columns, and if neither of us offer a repudiation, it will be assumed official.”
“Cousin, I do not think Mother will—”
William interrupted Richard, saying, “Your parents will wish to keep my name above reproach, if not Lady Morgan’s, which will benefit the Fitzwilliams in the long run.”
“I suppose you could frame the request in that manner,” Richard responded.
“I-I know engaging yourself to me will be thought a degradation among the ton, Mr. Darcy. If your relatives object too soundly, perhaps we should drop the idea.”
“Nonsense!” William declared, sounding more irritated than he ought. “My sham of a marriage to Anne was at the earl’s insistence. He owes me a favour, and I shall have it!”
Jane blinked steadily. “I had no idea your marriage was not one of mutual admiration. David never mentioned that when he spoke of you.”
“Suffice it to say it was not,” William answered. “I shall explain more fully later, but for now all you need to understand is that my marriage was based on lies, and whilst I did not wish Anne dead, I cannot mourn her passing.”
Jane’s eyes grew wider. “I am truly sorry for your pain,” she replied. “Please know that, as your intended, I would never lie or do anything disrespectful.”
“If I had any doubts on that front, I would not be engaging myself to you,” William replied solemnly.
The sound of a distant cry made it apparent that Alice needed attention and gave William the opening he needed to leave. Having already decided he needed time alone to absorb all that he had just agreed to, he declared, “It seems Miss Alice is in need of her mother.”
Standing, he added, “The dinner was delicious, Lady Morgan, and I would like to return the favour by having you and Miss Catherine dine with Richard and me at Darcy House as soon as I can arrange it with my cook.”
Jane blushed. “We should be very pleased to join you.”
“Now, if you will excuse us, we shall return to Darcy House. When I hear that Mr. Graves will be ready to meet with us, I will send around a note.”
Jane stood, too, stepping closer to offer William her hand. “Thank you for all you have taken upon yourself for my sake. I would not have known where to turn had you not made yourself available.”
“You do not have to thank me. I could do no less for David.”
Having said that, William and Richard departed the house.
Lambton
The Inn
