Page 45 of Missing

Mr. Darcy returned home after a long and fatiguing journey.

At least he had managed to settle certain essential matters with Lady Catherine and hoped she would now refrain from interfering further.

He was exhausted and had neither strength nor inclination to travel again or to dispute issues that were not his direct concern.

His sister-in-law was insufferable, and a week in her company had been nothing short of torture.

Yet when Mr. Darcy arrived at his house, he did not find the tranquility he so ardently desired.

On the contrary, he was astonished to discover that Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley had departed on a journey.

His surprise soon gave way to fury when no one could explain their destination.

The butler handed him the brief note Mrs. Annesley had left and explained that he had questioned the staff thoroughly, but no one knew more.

Mr. Darcy was both angry and deeply anxious. He blamed himself for leaving his daughter in the care of a woman who, it now seemed, could not be trusted. He could only pray that no harm had befallen Georgiana and that word of her would soon arrive.

The very next day, George Wickham called upon Mr. Bingley to solicit yet another loan from his pliant friend.

Unfortunately for him, Mr. Darcy was in Kent, and he had no other patron to turn to.

But this time Mr. Bingley refused it, declaring that he already owed too much.

Wickham tried every artifice and argument, but he failed to persuade him.

The truth was that both William Dalton and Mr. Hurst had opened Mr. Bingley's eyes, showing him that Wickham would never repay what he owed, and that further lending was nothing short of folly.

Moreover, Charles had discovered in his brother-in-law a wiser counsellor and far more dependable friend than Wickham had ever been.

Wickham was desperate. The only solution he could imagine to his financial ruin was to force his marriage to Georgiana.

He had no time to woo and persuade her into eloping with him to Gretna Green.

Yet Mrs. Annesley was an obstacle he could not overcome: she never left Georgiana's side and allowed him no opportunity.

If only he could rid himself of her, the path would be clear.

Caroline Bingley, meanwhile, was uneasy.

Wickham had been closeted with her brother in the study.

Many times she had begged Charles to sever his connection with that scoundrel, but he always dismissed her entreaties.

The last time she had seen Wickham at Darcy House, he had proposed something she could never consent to.

Her dream was to belong to the highest circles, yet even she possessed some scruples, and sacrificing Georgiana to such a man was beyond what she was willing to contemplate.

Besides, she did not trust Wickham; once he had secured all he desired, he would likely cast them aside and ensure they were excluded from the Darcys entirely.

"What occupies your thoughts so deeply, Caroline?" Wickham asked mockingly, eager to know if she was wavering.

"I told you not to call me by my name. To you, I am Miss Bingley," she retorted indignantly. She was prevented from saying more by the sudden entrance of her brother and Jane.

"You are still here, Wickham? If you mean to persist in the matter we already discussed, I must ask you to leave," said Mr. Bingley, surprised to find him conversing with his sister.

"I was merely paying my respects to Miss Bingley," Wickham replied smoothly, glancing at Caroline. He had no intention of leaving until he had his answer.

"You have already done so, Mr. Wickham; now you may depart," Caroline said with disdain.

Turning her back on him, she resumed her conversation with Charles.

"We ought to visit Mr. Darcy and my dear friend Georgiana.

Besides, we must explain to him how pernicious it is that he permits Georgiana to associate with people of such low connections, who approach her only with wicked designs. "

Jane at once suspected that Caroline referred to Elizabeth, and though timid, she felt compelled to defend her sister. She knew how sincerely Elizabeth cared for Georgiana, and how happy Georgiana was in her company.

"Miss Darcy is a clever girl, and she knows perfectly well how to choose her friends and whom she may trust," Jane said with trembling firmness.

"Jane, I suppose you mean Eliza. But let me assure you, she and Georgiana are no more than distant acquaintances," Caroline retorted coldly. She was vexed that Jane made a habit of contradicting her.

"If they were merely acquaintances, she would not be spending several days at the Daltons'," Jane said quietly, but with satisfaction at the sight of Caroline's darkened countenance.

Wickham could scarcely believe his good fortune: without effort, he had discovered Georgiana's present abode.

He excused himself immediately and hurried to Darcy House.

He knew Georgiana had called on Mrs. Dalton often, and he expected the coachman to direct him to the house.

But before he could contrive to speak with the man, he learnt that his godfather had returned from Kent the previous evening.

He went at once to Mr. Darcy's study, affecting concern.

"I am sorry, George, but I have no time to speak with you now. I have urgent business. And I remind you that I forbade your coming to this house uninvited."

"Is your urgent business concerning Georgiana?" Wickham asked, feigning solicitude.

"Yes. Do you know something?"

"I visited Bingley today, and his wife mentioned that Georgiana is spending several days with the Daltons.

Godfather, this must be Mrs. Annesley's doing.

That woman thinks she may act as she pleases with Georgiana.

She is a dangerous influence. The moment I heard she had taken Georgiana there, I thought it could only be to place her in some compromising situation.

You know there are many who would use Georgie merely to gain access to your fortune. "

"I see," said Mr. Darcy gravely. "I shall go to her at once. Thank you for your concern." He longed only to see his daughter safe again.

"Shall I accompany you?" Wickham asked eagerly.

"No. I prefer to go alone. I shall see you another day, godson." With that, Mr. Darcy summoned his butler to prepare for his immediate departure.

Wickham smiled inwardly. Events were unfolding better than he had hoped. Caroline's assistance was no longer required. All he needed now was to ensure that Georgiana's new companion would serve his own ends.

◆◆◆

Elizabeth was surprised when the butler informed her that Mr. Darcy was waiting in the drawing room. Violet had not felt well and had remained in her room all day, so it fell to Elizabeth to receive him.

"Mrs. Dalton, I am here because I have come to take my daughter home," Mr. Darcy explained. He was cordial, but it was clear he was upset.

"I already told the butler to inform her of your arrival. She and Mrs. Annesley are at my aunt's house down the road. Would you care for a cup of tea while you wait?"

"No, thank you. I am in some haste."

"I understand."

When Georgiana arrived, she greeted her father warmly and told him she had spent a most delightful few days with the Daltons and the Gardiners.

"I am so grateful to everyone, Father; it has been a wonderful week."

"I have already thanked Mrs. Dalton for her generosity, Georgiana. Now it is time for us to go; I have much to attend to," Mr. Darcy said, visibly annoyed.

"Yes, Father," Georgiana replied, disappointed. She quickly perceived his displeasure and knew it was best to leave the Daltons' house without delay.

Before departing, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley went to Violet's room to thank her most sincerely for her hospitality.

"I hope you recover soon, Mrs. Dalton. Please take good care of yourself. Thank you for everything, and I hope to invite you to my house to meet my father very soon," Georgiana said, hugging Violet.

"Do not worry about my health, dear Georgiana.

These days mark my wedding anniversary, and it will be the first I shall spend without my beloved husband," Violet replied, her voice breaking.

Then she caressed Georgiana's face and added with great affection, "It has been a pleasure to know you better; you are an exceptional girl. "

Georgiana embraced Violet again. Mrs. Dalton was so kind and tender that, had she ever known a mother, she would have wished her to be like Violet.

Mrs. Annesley also bade Violet a fond farewell.

Both ladies, being originally from the North of England and nearly strangers in London, had quickly become close friends.

At last, Elizabeth said goodbye to Georgiana and reiterated her willingness to assist her whenever she might need. "Thank you for your company; you helped me not to miss my husband so much."

"Thank you for everything, dear Lizzy. You are the best friend I have ever had," Georgiana replied, embracing her once more.

"Once again, thank you for everything, Mrs. Dalton. Georgiana, it is time to go," Mr. Darcy said dryly.

Elizabeth noticed that Mrs. Annesley was quite nervous, and as she thanked her, Elizabeth whispered, "Please remember that you can always count on us for anything you need."

"Thank you, my dear Lizzy. You cannot know how happy it makes me to realize I have such good friends," Mrs. Annesley answered, hugging her one last time before leaving.

During the carriage ride, only Georgiana spoke, telling her father all she had done. He, however, asked no questions and made no reply, gazing out the window, absorbed in thought.

When they arrived home, Georgiana went to her room, and Mr. Darcy asked Mrs. Annesley to accompany him to his study. Once there, he immediately addressed her.

"Mrs. Annesley, I employed you to guide and accompany my daughter, not to make decisions that do not belong to you.

How could you take her from my house without informing anyone?

You cannot imagine the hours of anguish I endured not knowing where Georgiana was.

If not for my godson, I might not have discovered your whereabouts even now. "

"I am sorry, Mr. Darcy. Please believe me, it was not my intention to cause you distress. I thought you would return in two more days and—"

"Mrs. Annesley, it is best not to prolong this discussion. I am not interested in your explanations; I no longer trust you. You shall no longer serve my family. I shall pay you your final wages, and you may remain until tomorrow to find other lodgings."

Mrs. Annesley did not attempt further explanation. She knew only Colonel Fitzwilliam could bring Mr. Darcy to his senses. Besides, she felt affection for him and did not wish for an altercation.

"Do not concern yourself, sir. I shall leave today, and you need not pay me for the month, since I have worked but two days. I ask only that you take care of your daughter. Good afternoon, Mr. Darcy, and thank you for allowing me to serve you and Miss Darcy."

She left the study with her head held high, knowing she had nothing to repent or regret.

Soon after, she asked a servant to help her pack, bid Georgiana an emotional farewell, and departed Darcy House.

Fortunately, she had long experience as a companion, and her late husband had left her a comfortable sum in investments.

She resolved to seek temporary shelter with the Daltons and then return north to live near her family.

Georgiana was heartbroken. Her parting from Mrs. Annesley was both painful and grievous.

Though she had never defied her father before, this time she felt compelled.

She entered his study, dried her tears, and said solemnly, "Father, you have made a great mistake in dismissing Mrs. Annesley.

She has been an excellent companion; she has taught me much and, above all, she has protected me. "

"I am sorry, daughter, but I no longer trust her," Mr. Darcy replied. He hated to see Georgiana so sad, yet he would not alter his decision.

"But you trust George Wickham without hesitation, though I have told you he makes me uncomfortable whenever he is near. Mrs. Annesley took me to the Daltons' to protect me from him."

"That is enough, Georgiana. I told George he could not approach you, and he promised me he would not."

"I understand, Father. I ask only one favour."

"Of course, daughter. Tell me how I may help you."

"Please tell your godson never to come near me again. I no longer consider him a friend."

"Georgiana, I do not wish to argue with you. Let us go to the library and read one of those adventure stories you love."

"I am sorry, Father, but I prefer to go to my room. If you will excuse me," she said, leaving for the garden. She wanted only to be as far from her father as possible.

Mr. Darcy watched her go, his heart heavy. He had promised to protect his godson, but the situation grew more complicated each day. Though he still convinced himself that Wickham was a good young man, he was forced to admit that his judgment might be failing him.

◆◆◆

Elizabeth left Mrs. Annesley to converse with her mother-in-law. She explained that she no longer worked for the Darcys and that Mr. Darcy had not even allowed her to defend herself. Yet she confessed she had no regret for what she had done.

Violet and Elizabeth immediately offered her lodging for as long as she might require, though Mrs. Annesley assured them she did not intend to abuse their hospitality; once she had resolved her affairs in London, she meant to travel north.

Elizabeth was writing a letter to her father when she suddenly felt the distinct sensation of being observed. She raised her head and saw her handsome husband standing before her, smiling warmly, a beautiful bouquet of red roses in his hands.

"These flowers are for you, my sweet love," William said. But he could not say more, for Elizabeth had already run into his arms.

"William, my love, you cannot know how much I have missed you," Elizabeth cried, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks.

William handed her the flowers, kissed her cheek, then gathered her into his embrace and pressed his lips to hers in a long and ardent kiss that lasted almost five minutes. "I have missed you, too, Elizabeth."

Mrs. Annesley discreetly retired to her room to rest, perceiving that Violet was somewhat fatigued. But Violet herself was restless; she had heard her son arrive.

'I must make a decision,' she thought anxiously.' Please, my dear Aaron, guide me to what is best for our son.'