Chapter 20 #2
“I am sure it is, although she is a brave and determined lady. Anyone—man or woman—would be overwhelmed by such a sudden and dramatic alteration to their life.”
“So, how will she handle everything? Will your help be enough?”
“The fortune is protected by a trust fund. There are many legal requirements and documents, completely unknown to her. There are trustees, executors, solicitors, each with legal liabilities regarding the inheritance. But she finds it difficult– considering the circumstances—to trust those outside her family.”
“Certainly her mistrust is well-grounded, considering...It is good she can rely on her family.”
“Yes...But none of them possess experience or even knowledge in examining legal papers, or conducting extensive affairs and managing large properties. Lady Barrington granted me her confidence and trust, begging for my assistance. I gave her my word that she may depend on me for as long as she needs to. Therefore, I have to adjust any prior engagements or plans.”
Darcy ended his explanation, watching Georgiana’s expression.
The girl reflected upon the new information while drinking some tea, then said, “I believe Lady Barrington was very wise to ask for your assistance and you were very generous to offer it. As much as I long to return home, Pemberley will wait for us. I cannot forget that you were forced to change your plans for me last summer.”
“Thank you, dearest,” he said affectionately. “I am very proud and grateful for your sound judgement. But you promised to cease blaming yourself for last summer.”
“I am trying to keep my promise, brother.”
Another pause followed while they ate and drank.
“I did not realise that your friendship with Lady Barrington was so close,” Georgiana said.
He felt slightly uneasy. “It was not; quite the opposite.
I admit I have long admired her, but we had many disagreements in the past. My manners were far from flawless at the beginning of our acquaintance.
My interference might have been the reason why the Bennet family became so desperate that she was forced to accept Barrington's marriage proposal. If I had not been arrogant and presumptuous and imposed my opinion on others, Lady Barrington would now be living an easy and happy life with her family.”
Georgiana’s expression turned incredulous. “This cannot be! I am sure you take too much upon yourself, as always!”
“Sadly, not this time. If Miss Bennet and I were truly friends at that time, I would have warned her about Barrington and definitely opposed the marriage. However, I found out about it much too late and I was in no position to form an opinion.”
“But brother...does Lady Barrington blame you too?”
“Not at all. Her response was rather similar to yours. But I cannot overcome my remorse easily.”
“This is why you are so willing to help her?”
He glanced at his sister, then answered sincerely.
“No. I would help her under any circumstances. I just regret the ordeal she has had to suffer, alone and unprotected. I remember her wit, her teasing manner, her sparkling conversation, her courage in stating her opinions. It pains me to see how much her spirit and her behaviour have altered in only three months.”
His animated statement stirred Georgiana’s curiosity. She watched her brother intently and silently, as they finished their breakfast.
“I hope to meet Lady Barrington again soon. She seems a remarkable lady.”
“You will, dearest. The only reason I did not ask you to join us for tea or dinner while she stayed at my house is that...Lady Barrington was uncomfortable with her appearance. She considered it would be too unpleasant for you to witness the proof of her past distress. She mentioned to me that she would send you an invitation as soon as she is ready to entertain.”
“Brother, I saw...” Georgiana whispered. “I could not believe it. The bruises and the marks on her neck. Did he...? Aunt Matlock was appalled and shocked too!”
“Georgiana, are you sure this conversation is not too distressing for you?”
“I am sure. I would rather know if you are at liberty to tell me.”
“As you wish. In short, Lord Barrington’s entire marriage was a scheme to inherit his aunt’s large fortune, and then to become a widow and use it as he pleased.
He needed an honourable woman, of genteel breeding, with the right qualities to gain his aunt’s approval.
Miss Bennet happened to be his victim. Her father had just suffered a stroke, and they feared he would die.
Since his estate was entailed, they believed they would lose their home and means to survive.
So Miss Bennet decided to sacrifice herself and marry a man whose character she suspected to be faulty.
It was a business arrangement, accepted also by his aunt, Lady Sedgewick.
Apparently, the lady discovered Miss Bennet’s worthiness and readily accepted her as a successor for her charities.
Their affection was mutual and Miss Bennet—Lady Barrington—accepted the requirements and responsibilities attached to her new position.
Sadly, after Lady Sedgewick’s death, Lord Barrington revealed his true intentions and his vicious character. ”
“How awful!”
“I cannot provide you with more details, except that for two months, Lady Barrington and many of the staff were in great danger. She had to fight every day for her own life and the lives of those around her, while she was not allowed to contact her family or friends.”
“Dear Lord! Poor Lady Barrington, what she must have suffered!”
“She is indeed the bravest woman I have ever met and this is just another reason to admire her,” Darcy concluded. “I am sorry if I troubled you, my dear, but it is likely that gossip and false reports have already been spread around town. It is better that you know the truth.”
“Thank you for trusting me. I am troubled, as anyone would be. I never imagined an educated man might act so cruelly and despicably. And an earl! Such deception, such betrayal of all that is good and honourable!” Georgiana said with growing trepidation.
“Unfortunately, connections, wealth, situation in life, or even a good education do not guarantee a righteous character and honourable behaviour.”
“I shall never marry,” Georgiana whispered, and Darcy felt torn between smiling and grieving.
“There is plenty of time before we need to consider your marriage, my dear. I am glad we had the chance to talk at length today.”
“So am I, brother. Will you see Lady Barrington again soon?”
“Probably. I have received no news since she moved. I will meet Uncle Matlock at the club today and on my way home, I might call on her ladyship.”
“Please convey her my best regards!”
“I will.”