Page 52 of Master of Netherfield
Surprised at the tone of his sister’s voice, Darcy glanced at Mrs Annesley for the companion’s reaction but asked his sister, “Tell me what happened?”
“The girl spoke out of turn Mr Darcy,” Mrs Annesley reported. “She told of your ejection of Mrs Murray from the house and the woman’s tales in the village of mistreatment.”
“Georgiana, I am sorry you had to hear such as this,” William told his sister. “I wanted the woman removed before you arrived with Mr Bennet and Miss Elizabeth.”
“I understand more than you think brother. I am not grown but I am not an infant. When I was confused after one of father’s visits to Netherfield–you and he argued about funding a trust for a ‘natural child’–I asked Elizabeth for an explanation. She was confused as to what to say but she took me to her mother and Mrs Bennet explained that Father had a mistress with a natural child.”
William sat back in his chair. “There were two mistresses and three children.”
“We have three siblings?” Georgiana asked with surprise while Mrs Annesley looked away; she had dealt with a family and ‘natural children’ previously with the Earl of Coleridge.
“They are Father’s natural children and his will provided for their education and a trust.”
“Who will direct this education? Will they receive a proper upbringing?”
“It is not something you must worry about, dear.”
To William’s surprize, Georgiana shook her head.
“The maid reminded me of the stories about my birth. She said that everyone knows I am not...” Georgiana tried to say as tears formed.
William moved instantly to his sister and pulled her into his arms.
“You are my sister–Georgiana Darcy–never allow any doubt to enter your mind!” he insisted. “Nothing and no one will ever make you any less than my sister.”
Georgiana laid her head on her brother’s chest and felt safe in his embrace.
“We must see to the care of our brothers after we settle Pemberley,” she said with finality. Then she straightened up and accepted his handkerchief to dry her eyes.
“I see you still carry Elizabeth’s embroidery work everywhere you go William,” she teased when she looked at the worn handkerchief.
“Miss Elizabeth is my seamstress,” William responded. “It has been three years now since any other handkerchiefs have been in my pocket.”
“I miss the Bennets and Netherfield,” Georgiana said. “How long do we remain in Derbyshire?”
“Our visit will last for several months. We are in mourning for a year and should not travel a great distance. And there is much to settle and politicians to placate here about.”
“Then I shall endeavour to make it feel more like home. Mrs Bennet promised to correspond with answers to any questions I have, and Mrs Reynolds is most agreeable.”
“I shall see you at supper,” William said as he rose once again and left the room. Behind him he heard Mrs Annesley begin a conversation regarding how to plan meals with the housekeeper.
**++**
Mr Darcy returned to his office and sent a footman to find Mrs Reynolds and bring her to him. Seated behind his desk, he dismissed the secretary and the solicitor for the moment.
“You wished to see me Mr Darcy?” asked Mrs Reynolds as she entered the room several minutes later.
“Yes. My sister was... Earlier today, the maid serving my sister was very unkind to Georgiana, making remarks regarding Mrs Murray and my sister’s parentage.”
Mrs Reynolds was white with fury within moments of Darcy’s words.
“I have spoken to my sister who was better informed than I had imaged.”
“Sir, I am so very sorry. I shall speak to the girl...”
“Who is her family?”
“She is a girl from Kympton sir. Her sister is one of...”
