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Darcy studied the man carefully. Wallace appeared to be in his early thirties, with the weathered complexion of one who had seen actual service rather than merely paraded in London parks.

His uniform, while impeccably clean, showed signs of real wear.

Most notable, however, was his direct gaze, neither deferential nor challenging, but steady and assured.

“Captain Wallace,” Darcy acknowledged with a nod. “Welcome to Pemberley. You must be fatigued after your journey. Mrs. Reynolds will show you to your rooms, and perhaps you would join us for refreshments in the drawing room once you have settled.”

“That would be most welcome, sir,” Wallace replied. Though he spoke with educated tones, there was a slight accent to his speech, subtle but noticeable, suggesting he was not from London or its environs. The south-west, perhaps? Dorset or Cornwall, Darcy suspected.

As Mrs. Reynolds led the captain away, Darcy turned to his cousin. “I gather you have found a solution to our predicament.”

Fitzwilliam glanced around the entrance hall. “Perhaps somewhere more private?”

Darcy led his cousin to the study, closing the door firmly behind them. “Now, explain. I take it Captain Wallace is central to whatever scheme you have devised?”

“He is the scheme,” Fitzwilliam replied, removing his gloves and hat. “Captain Wallace is willing to marry Lydia Bennet.”

Darcy raised an eyebrow. “And he is aware of the... circumstances?”

“Fully aware,” Fitzwilliam confirmed, taking a seat in one of the leather chairs.

“Even the… how Wickham’s death came about?”

“Yes, Darcy. I told him everything, before I revealed Lydia’s name.

He was not concerned, saying that it sounds like Wickham got exactly what he deserved for treating a young gentlewoman so abominably.

” Fitzwilliam smiled tightly. “We’re soldiers, Darcy.

We’ve seen death much uglier and much less justified than what Wickham suffered.

I have known Wallace for several years. He served under my command during the Peninsula campaign.

He is discreet, honourable, and in need of financial advancement. ”

“And this is why he agrees to the match? Financial incentive?” Darcy remained standing, studying his cousin’s face for any sign of uncertainty.

“Partly,” Fitzwilliam admitted. “But not entirely. Wallace is a third son from a Cornish family who are not gentry. His father did well enough in trade to purchase Wallace his initial commission, but there will be nothing more forthcoming; he is expected to make his own way in the world, and indeed he has done, earning his subsequent promotions through merit. He is ambitious but limited by his circumstances. Marriage to a gentleman’s daughter would be advantageous socially. ”

“For how much?” Darcy said baldly.

Fitzwilliam shrugged slightly. “We did not discuss exact sums, but I made a suggestion that whatever amount was agreed upon, half would be invested in Lydia’s name and the funds paid for her maintenance, while the other half would be paid directly to him.

He was very amenable to that, saying it was a fair provision that will guarantee stability for Lydia’s future as well as enable him to advance in his career.

In return, he offers his name and respectability.

I believe it a fair exchange, given the situation. ”

Darcy paced before the fireplace, considering. “And his character? You vouch for him?”

“Without reservation,” Fitzwilliam said firmly. “Wallace has shown exceptional courage in battle and integrity in all his dealings. He is well-educated, reads widely, and conducts himself as a gentleman in all respects. His financial circumstances are his only limitation.”

“What of his appearance? His manners?” Darcy pressed. “Miss Lydia is young and has certain... expectations.”

A flicker of amusement crossed Fitzwilliam’s face.

“You need not worry on that account. Wallace is quite a handsome fellow, as you have seen. He dances well, converses intelligently, and has charmed more than one general’s daughter at regimental gatherings; he thoroughly enjoys social gatherings of all types.

I believe even a girl of Miss Lydia’s lively disposition might find him appealing. ”

Darcy nodded slowly, processing this information. “And he is not merely seeking an arrangement on paper?”

“He is not,” Fitzwilliam confirmed. “Wallace is not seeking a marriage of convenience, Darcy. He wants a proper wife and a family. He believes he could make a success of this match, despite its unusual beginnings, and he is willing to claim the child as his own.”

The door opened, and a footman appeared with a tray of refreshments. Both men fell silent as he arranged the tea service, only resuming their conversation once he had departed.

“I would like to speak with him myself,” Darcy said, pouring tea for his cousin. “To assess his suitability.”

“Of course,” Fitzwilliam agreed, accepting the cup. “I would expect nothing less. But I would not have brought him here if I did not believe him to be the solution to your problem.”

A knock at the door interrupted them. At Darcy’s acknowledgment, Elizabeth entered, her expression curious.

“Colonel Fitzwilliam,” she said, her tone happily welcoming. “How wonderful to see you.”

Fitzwilliam rose and bowed. “Mrs. Darcy. You are looking well.”

“And you have brought a guest, I believe?” Elizabeth asked, her quick mind already perceiving the connection to their letter.

“Captain James Wallace,” Darcy confirmed. “Currently refreshing himself after the journey. My cousin believes he may be the answer to our... situation with your sister.”

Elizabeth’s eyes widened slightly. “Indeed? So soon?”

“I acted immediately upon receiving Darcy’s letter,” Fitzwilliam explained.

“The opportunity seemed too fortuitous to delay. Captain Wallace’s regiment is in the process of transitioning to York even as we speak and will be based there for the next few months at least, which would place your sister at a convenient distance from both London gossip and Hertfordshire curiosity. ”

“And Captain Wallace is willing to marry Lydia?” Elizabeth asked, taking a seat beside Darcy. “Knowing everything?”

“He is,” Fitzwilliam said. “For a sum yet to be agreed, but half of which is to be invested on Lydia’s behalf.”

Elizabeth glanced at Darcy, a question in her eyes. He nodded slightly, indicating his provisional approval of the plan.

“I should like to meet this captain,” Elizabeth said, her practical nature asserting itself. “Before we proceed further.”

“Of course,” Darcy agreed. “I believe he will join us shortly.”

As if on cue, Mrs. Reynolds appeared at the door, announcing Captain Wallace. The man entered, his uniform exchanged for civilian attire that, while not of the first quality, was well-tailored and becoming. He bowed to the company, his composure unruffled by Elizabeth’s presence.

“Mrs. Darcy,” Fitzwilliam said, making the introduction. “May I present Captain James Wallace.”

“Captain,” Elizabeth acknowledged with a gracious nod. “Welcome to Pemberley.”

“The honour is mine, madam,” Wallace replied, his manner respectful without being obsequious. “Your home is magnificent.”

“Please, join us,” Darcy invited, gesturing to a chair. “My cousin informs me that you are aware of our... delicate situation.”

Wallace accepted the seat, his posture as straight as if he were on parade. “I am, sir. Colonel Fitzwilliam has explained Miss Lydia’s circumstances in confidence. I understand the need for discretion and swift action.”

Darcy studied the man carefully, noting the steady gaze and composed demeanour. There was nothing in Wallace’s manner that suggested discomfort with the arrangement being proposed.

“And you are willing to marry my sister, knowing her history?” Elizabeth asked directly, her voice calm despite the highly unusual nature of the conversation.

“I am, Mrs. Darcy,” Wallace confirmed without hesitation. “With certain conditions, which I believe are reasonable given the circumstances.”

“The financial settlement,” Darcy said.

“Yes, sir. Two thousand pounds is a reasonable sum, I believe, which would provide some security for the future. I do not come from wealth, but I have always conducted myself honourably. I can offer Miss Lydia respectability, if not luxury.”

Elizabeth’s expression remained neutral, but Darcy could sense her assessment of the man was not unfavourable. “And may I ask, Captain Wallace, why you would agree to such an arrangement? Beyond the financial incentive, that is.”

Wallace considered his response carefully.

“I have reached an age where I desire the companionship of a wife. My career keeps me from the usual social circles where I might meet suitable young ladies, and my family background eliminates me from consideration from many of those coming from a gentry background, which would be my preference for a wife – someone who is comfortable moving in refined circles. Additionally, I have no particular romantic attachments at present.” He paused, then added with quiet frankness, “I understand that Miss Lydia is young and spirited, and a lively personality is something I have always appreciated. I do not expect immediate affection, but I believe mutual respect can grow into something more substantial over time.”

Darcy exchanged a glance with Elizabeth, impressed by the captain’s honest assessment.

There was no false sentiment in his words, no pretence of romantic feelings he could not possibly harbour for a young woman he had never met.

Instead, he offered complete openness, practical consideration and a willingness to build a genuine marriage from pragmatic beginnings.

“Captain Wallace served with distinction in Spain,” Colonel Fitzwilliam added. “He has received commendations for bravery under fire, and strategic thinking.”

“And now you will be stationed in York?” Elizabeth inquired.