Chapter 9 #3
By the following morning, every fashionable drawing room in London seemed to be talking about the wealthy, beautiful, intelligent, and charming Lady Campbell.
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Marcus, as always, rose early and followed his exercise routine.
A friend who had been stationed in India for several years had taught him several exercises for both body and mind.
Maintaining that discipline helped keep him away from the destructive thoughts that so often invaded his mind and soul.
After breakfast, he decided to speak with Claire. He had been occupied for the past two days and had not yet had the opportunity to discuss Mr Darcy with his niece. He knew Claire was also an early riser, so they would be able to speak freely without interruption.
"Dear Uncle, you must wish to speak with me. Whenever you come to me at this hour, it is because you have something important to discuss."
"Yes, my dear. You know me very well. At this hour, your mother is still asleep, so she will not interrupt us."
Marcus then explained that he was concerned about Mr Darcy and his intentions towards her.
"I believe Miss Darcy entertains the hope that something might develop between you. She likes you, and therefore naturally wishes to bring you closer to her brother. But I am not certain that such a man would be right for you. Forgive me, my darling. If I am being intrusive, you must tell me."
"Do not worry, Uncle. You know you are my favourite person in the entire world, and I keep no secrets from you. But you need not be concerned. I shall speak with Georgiana." Then, blushing, she added, "There is another gentleman whom I admire."
"I see."
Marcus knew perfectly well who that gentleman was, but he did not wish to force his niece to speak before she was ready.
"Besides," Claire added with a smile, "I believe Mr Darcy greatly admires the young lady we met the other day in the park, Miss Bennet."
"How do you know that?" Marcus asked cheerfully.
"Because when he saw her, he became so tense that he could scarcely breathe.
I almost thought I could hear his heart racing.
It was quite amusing, Uncle. You know, Mr Darcy and I have a great deal in common.
I believe we are both rather shy. That is why we are so terribly dull when we are together and never seem to have anything to say to one another.
I think he imagined that stern expression would deceive me, but I could see in his eyes that he could barely contain his admiration.
I do not blame him. Miss Bennet is so pretty and delightful.
And the way she teased him, answering every question with such charming impertinence!
Even you, Uncle, were captivated by her.
Do not deny it," Claire said, pointing playfully at him.
"I do not deny it," Marcus replied with a smile. "She is a charming young lady, and she is the niece of... an old friend."
Marcus had never spoken of Ella to anyone. Only his brother knew the tragic story of the woman he had loved.
"My dear, I feel much easier after what you have told me. I think you ought to speak with your friend and clarify the situation. May I accompany you the next time you visit Miss Darcy? There is something I should like to discuss with Mr Darcy."
Marcus wished to learn a little more about Elizabeth Bennet.
He could not rid himself of an uneasy feeling.
Knowing how Eustace and Thomas had treated Ella, he feared that her lovely niece might be suffering under similar circumstances.
Mr Darcy evidently knew Miss Bennet well and might be able to tell him how to contact her.
Perhaps, by helping Elizabeth, he could atone in some small measure for the terrible wrong he believed he had done to her aunt and little cousin.
He had left them to face their fate alone.
If he could help Elizabeth now, perhaps the burden upon his conscience—and the sorrow that had weighed upon his soul for so many years—might become a little lighter.
"Of course, Uncle. Georgiana invited me to take tea with her tomorrow."
Marcus rose to his feet.
"Very well, my dear. I shall call for you tomorrow afternoon, and we shall go to Darcy House together."
"I shall be ready, Uncle," Claire replied with a smile.
Claire followed him to the front door and, before he left, said thoughtfully,
"You know, Uncle, your eyes are a very unusual colour. I often hear ladies remark that you are remarkably handsome and that you have the most beautiful eyes in all of England."
Marcus had never cared for such compliments. He merely smiled.
"I shall see you tomorrow, my dear."
"Wait, Uncle, I have not finished." Claire laughed. "Your eyes truly are extraordinary, and I was astonished when I noticed Miss Bennet's. They are almost exactly the same colour as yours. That was all I wished to say, so do not look at me like that."
She kissed her uncle on the cheek.
Marcus left the house without another word. He walked aimlessly through the streets until, quite suddenly, he stopped.
‘It cannot be...’ he whispered.
Then, shaking his head, he muttered,
‘No... it is impossible.’