Chapter 4 #3
The anger, the pain, the tiredness, the fear of an uncertain future had changed Mrs. Gardiner’s soft countenance and her eyes were blurred from distress.
She turned in haste, walking towards the drawing-room.
Elizabeth followed her in silence, astonished to see her aunt lose her temper for the first time.
The tragic circumstances seemed to have defeated them all.
Later on, while comforting themselves with a cup of tea, Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner regained some of their spirit and strength.
While accepting it was only as much as they could do, they slowly took a step from helplessness and weakness, towards what could be accomplished.
They postponed the letter to Mrs. Bennet until the next day, both praying for an unlikely improvement overnight.
Hours passed and late in the afternoon, a most unexpected visit was announced: Lord Barrington and an older gentleman.
Their appearance astounded the household and Mrs. Gardiner barely remembered her manners as she invited the guests in.
“Mrs. Gardiner, I apologise for the intrusion. My mother told me about Mr. Gardiner’s visit and I could not remain indifferent to your family’s grief. Although our acquaintance is quite new, I dare consider myself your friend and I take it as my duty to offer my support.”
“Thank you, sir.”
“This gentleman is Dr. Perry—Dr. Linfield’s colleague. Dr. Perry is one of the most respected doctors in town and if you think it would be useful, he might examine Mr. Bennet.”
“That would be wonderful,” Elizabeth interjected. The earl’s visit had appeared improper to her, until the physician was introduced. “This is very generous of you; we will be forever grateful.”
“There is no need for gratitude, Miss Elizabeth. A friend in need is a friend indeed,” Lord Barrington stated.
“We do appreciate your care, but I must tell you that Dr. Clarke is already with my brother,” Mrs. Gardiner explained.
“Dr. Clarke? From Grosvenor Street?” Doctor Perry enquired.
“Yes….”
“He is an old and most respected colleague. It is fortunate that we are both here. We shall discuss the situation and find the best way to treat the patient.”
“Oh, yes, yes, please!” Elizabeth answered anxiously. “So fortunate, indeed! We are so grateful! Come, let me show you to my father’s chamber.”
Minutes later, the physician entered Mr. Bennet’s chamber, while Elizabeth returned to the drawing-room. Anxious, her hopes rising, still puzzled by the earl’s presence, she sat on a sofa, clasping her hands together in her lap.
“I will order some refreshments,” Mrs. Gardiner offered. She left, and Elizabeth found herself in awkward silence, facing Lord Barrington.
“Sir, I have no words to thank you…” she began eventually.
“I would be rewarded enough to know I could help, Miss Bennet. I imagine how devastating this circumstance must be for your family. Your sister is well, I hope?”
“Jane? No...Not quite. She caught a very bad cold which she has neglected and all this torment, together with the exhaustion and concern has defeated her. Dr. Clarke examined her earlier and found several reasons for worry, so he requested that she keep to her bed for the next few days.”
The earl appeared disconcerted.
“I am sorry to hear that; I pray she will improve soon. So, it must be even more difficult for you to face this tribulation alone.”
“My uncle and aunt are supporting us. We are grateful to have them.”
“Indeed. I assume that, if the tragedy were to worsen, you would be able to rely on them for the future too? I mean, since your father’s estate is entailed and would be claimed…”
“Sir, I am not even considering such an outcome! I pray and hope that my father will recover soon.”
“Of course. I have been a thoughtless fool to even mention such a possibility. I did not mean to hurt you even more. I applaud your loyalty and affection for your father.”
“Thank you. Please do not apologise, nothing you said is untrue. I just wish to avoid contemplating the worst, at least for the time being.”
“That is understandable. It is admirable to see a young lady with such strength and determination.” He smiled and Elizabeth felt slightly uncomfortable.
Fortunately, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner returned together and interrupted the exchange.
Food and drinks were served, and Elizabeth withdrew into silence, while her relatives carried on the conversation with the earl.
From time to time, Elizabeth glanced at him.
His manners were amiable, a friendly smile did not leave his face while he spoke, he was exceedingly handsome and appeared genuinely concerned for their well-being.
He looked like the perfect gentleman, and yet, she found little enjoyment in his company.
Half an hour later, Dr. Perry presented his report to them, which contained no better news and no more encouragement.
His recommendations matched those of Dr. Clarke and allowed the family little choice but to pray.
Dr. Perry also seconded his colleague’s conclusions regarding Jane’s health.
Elizabeth’s turmoil grew unbearable, while her hopes and her spirits fell again.
She excused herself and withdrew from the company, hurrying to her father's side. She spent the night switching between her father and Jane’s bedsides, watching them and fighting her grief and tears.