Page 16 of Georgiana
“Your Grace.” Lady Standish had the intelligence to lower her eyes as she sank into a graceful curtsy. Miss Standish also curtsied with a murmured ‘Your Grace’ but didn’t seem too impressed, which amused Maxwell to no end. Mama Standish may wish her daughter to snag a Duke, but the daughter obviously had no intentions and he decided he’d like her on that fact alone. For Catherine’s sake, and George’s, he suffered Lady Standish and her inane prattle of Penelope’s accomplishments until the clock struck the quarter hour.
“We were delighted to meet your new family members. When my daughter Penelope made her curtsy, we both commented on how delighted your Mother seemed.”
“Mmmm… yes,” was all he said. Undaunted, Lady Standish continued to prattle.
“Penelope immediately asked for an introduction, knowing they would become great friends. I have it some authority−”
“Pardon me, Lady Standish, but I have another appointment and must take my leave.”
At that time, with a polite bow to both ladies, he excused himself from their company, not caring one jot if Lady Standish thought him rude. He intended to arrive at Darcy House at precisely three-forty-five and watch all the other hopeful suitors leave while he stayed behind as a ‘family friend’.
“Well. I never…” and “Yes, you have, Mama,” was all he heard as he moved to his mother’ side and in low tones informed her he was leaving.
His carriage awaited him at the front door, as per his instructions and within minutes he was on his way. After being announced, his heart leaped in his chest at the look of joy Miss Darcy bestowed upon him. He also noted flowers on the table beside her. His flowers. What didn’t please him was the sight of Sir Reginald Slade seated next to her, although he stood and gave a polite nod in greeting as soon as Max entered the room. Had Darcy not warned her about him?
Chapter Five
Max barely had a chance to greet everyone before Darcy appeared beside him with a murmured, “Adborough”.
“Fitzwilliam. I had not thought you would join us today,” Elizabeth said, extending her hand to him when he stopped by her chair. “We’ve been having a lovely conversation with Sir Reginald. His family did not come to Town this year, so he is a free bird, it seems.”
“Indeed,” Sir Reginald said, bobbing his head in agreement. “Mother was not well enough to attend this season.”
“We don’t wish to keep you further, Sir Reginald. Please convey our regards to your Mother when you write her next.” Darcy ushered Slade toward the door of the sitting room. “Hutchins will see you out.”
Oh… I don’t−” Slade stammered.
Hutchins magically appeared and with a small flair of his hand, indicated Sir Reginald to follow him. Clearly befuddled, the man could do nothing else but trail behind the austere butler. It was only when the door closed that Lady Matlock directed her glare toward Darcy.
“I have never seen you hustle someone other than your Aunt Catherine out of your home with such speed. Please explain your behavior.”
Max moved across the room and took the chair vacated by Sir Reginald. Georgiana gave him a lovely smile and then turned her attention back to her brother and aunt.
“Do you remember our conversation this morning and I told you there was a gentleman we need to be wary of?” Darcy began.
“Yes… Oh!” Elizabeth started to frown and then understanding dawned. “He was the man you spoke of?”
“Yes, excuse me one moment.” Darcy walked to the door and called to the butler, who appeared a few seconds later. “Hutchins, we are not home to Sir Reginald Slade and he is NOT to be granted access for any reason. Please inform the necessary staff.”
“As you wish, Mr. Darcy.”
“Nephew, what is this all about?”
“I have been given some confidential information about Sir Reginald, and suffice to say he is not a desirable suitor for Georgiana.”
“Not desirable? He has an estate that rivals Rosings and has been knighted by the King.”
Lady Matlock cast glances at both Darcy and Elizabeth.
“If I may, Darcy,” Max interjected.
“Please do.”
“My brother George has a way of discovering hidden truths and it came to his attention that Sir Reginald is heavily in debt. Due to some unfortunate decisions on his part, which I will not relay, Sir Reginald needs to find a wife of means.” Max heard a soft intake of breath from Georgiana and turned to her. “I am sorry to be so blunt, Miss Darcy. I would never wish to offend your sensibilities, but you need to be aware that some men are not who they seem.”
“I’m more aware than you know, Your Grace.”
“Georgiana,” Elizabeth surged to her feet, casting a cryptic look at her husband, “the day is still young and we have not had our walk today. Would anyone care to join us?”
