The Disappearance of Georgiana Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Mystery (5 page)

“An Act of Parliament authorized the railway in 1808. It began as a fifteen-kilometer, double-track gauge, horse-drawn wagon way. It uses cast-iron plate rails with an inner flange.”

“And this is the line between Kilmarnock and Troon Harbor?” With his finger, Darcy traced the route on the map.

Joseph pointed to key cities on the adjoining drawings. “Father Parnell believes we could easily connect Glasgow to Carlisle or even all the way to London.”

Darcy let out a low whistle. “It would change the face of both Scotland and England, but I do not imagine it would come easily. It would take major innovations. My previous knowledge of Portland's lines says that the Duke used it purely for carrying coal from the Kilmarnock pits to Troon Harbor on the Ayrshire coast.” Darcy could not remove his eyes from the geographic renderings. “What does Parnell hope to accomplish with this venture?”

“Mary's father has suggested that if the line could strictly limit the number of trader wagons it permitted to use the line, we could control the flow of supplies.”

Darcy eyed Joseph carefully. The man grimaced when he explained the manipulations of his wife's father. Joseph's honest nature made him question the plan. “Parnell visualizes a monopoly?”
Darcy asked cautiously. “I would have no qualms in blocking our competitors. If I have financed the line's development, I should reap the rewards. However, if Parnell plans to limit supplies to drive up prices, I will not participate. I refuse to create a legacy for my heirs earned with my cottagers' broken backs.”

Joseph expelled a deep sigh. “Thank you, Mr. Darcy. You have given a voice to my qualms. I admire Edgar Parnell for his business sense, and I appreciate his creating a position for me in the firm he built from the floor up, but I question my ability to follow through on Father Parnell's vision.”

Darcy purposely refused to look at Joseph. “Who says you must parrot Parnell's words? It has been my experience that people respond best to those who treat them with dignity and respect. Instead of fighting Parnell or begrudgingly executing the man's orders, why do you not take Parnell's tasks and make them your own? Likely, Mary will inherit her father's many business establishments, which means they will eventually fall to you. You must decide what face those businesses will present to the public. You can change small things, giving your name to many of the negotiations. Changing one element affects other parts of the contract.”

After a long silence, Joseph said softly, “You have given me much to consider, Mr. Darcy. I will pray for guidance.”

Darcy smiled knowingly; yet, he was not fooled. Contrary to first impressions, Mr. Joseph possessed an iron resolve. Joseph and Parnell were likely to butt heads often. “Just do not forget that God often answers prayers without fanfare or divine intervention. Sometimes, guidance presents itself in an unexpected manner.” Darcy gestured to the drawings. “So, what role does Parnell expect me to play in this venture? I mean, besides the financial obligations.”

Joseph set his shoulders to the task of answering. “Although this transaction is all speculation at the moment, Father Parnell hopes to anticipate the direction the line will take and to develop businesses to supply the rail's completion, as well as to sustain its growth.”

Darcy's mouth set in a firm line. “This is not something I would take lightly. I need time to examine the documents you have brought to my attention. Plus, I would seek the counsel of my friend, Mr. Bingley. This could be a moment of great cleverness or of folly. I will not gamble away Bennet's heritage. Speculation is not a game I practice.”

“I am not certain that I approve, Fitzwilliam.” Elizabeth placed her long tresses in a soft plait.

“Mr. Bingley and I have discussed it. If I choose to examine the area personally, it should be now before the weather changes. Summer does not tarry in Scotland's southern uplands.”

“But you would be from Pemberley for weeks,” she protested.

Darcy came to sit behind her. They often held conversations in this manner: she at her dressing table, he sitting on the trunk at the end of her bed, each speaking to the other's reflection in her dressing mirror. “I would not wish to be parted from you or from Bennet for more than a few minutes, let alone days or weeks, but this is a prime investment, one which could guarantee Bennet's financial security. It would be foolish to ignore the opportunity; yet, before I invest heavily in this scheme, I wish to have answers to all my questions. My initial dealings with Parnell tell me the man can be ruthless in business matters, and I will not finance such schemes. However, I will not turn my back on an excellent opportunity.”

Elizabeth looked more closely at him. “What does Mr. Joseph say?”

They sat in silence for a few moments. Finally he said, “I should have known that you would recognize the source of my reservations. Joseph and his wife's father have different approaches.”

“I see,” Elizabeth said slowly. “Mr. Joseph possesses some questions of his own.”

“None that he has voiced,” Darcy said. “However, I have listened carefully to what Mr. Joseph does not say. I have also asked Bingley to hear the man's proposal, and Charles agrees: Joseph is not completely confident in this transaction.”

Elizabeth came to sit beside him. “Does Mr. Joseph fear that Mr. Parnell offers a false face, or is Matthew's objection his dislike for anything but his call to orders?”

“You have aptly summarized the situation. Matthew Joseph has admitted that he often finds Parnell's business maneuverings less than ethical. Is that Joseph's self-righteous pride speaking? We experienced the man's implacable nature first hand when we sought to bring comfort to Mrs. Joseph at Prestwick's Portal. Business dealings are never clearly black or white, and Joseph's character does not easily recognize that shades of gray are sometimes necessary.” He caught Elizabeth's hand in his and brought the back of it to his lips. “Exclusive control of the rail line is possible, but does that mean that the area will suffer? Parnell and his business partners could control the price of everything shipped on the line, as well as in and out of the Scottish ports.”

Elizabeth snuggled closer. “The ramifications are that huge? I had not suspected it possible.”

“I am honored that Parnell has sought me out as a partner in this endeavor; yet, my caution stands tall.”

Elizabeth sighed deeply. “Then it is best that you investigate. At least, you may stay with the Bingleys while away from home.”

“I have spoken to Bingley about his investing in the venture as well. Your sister's husband is eager to learn more of what is planned.” He stood to lead her to their shared bed. Darcy rarely slept in his own chambers. He had spent a few lonely nights there when Elizabeth first delivered Bennet, but he finally made a pallet on the floor beside her bed because he could not bear their separation. Her steady breathing as she slept brought him an unidentifiable satisfaction. “I suppose that means that you have no desire to join the Bingleys.”

Elizabeth caressed his jaw line. “I would enjoy our time together, and you are aware that I shall not accept our parting with any degree of contentment. Yet, it is not likely that our houseguests will depart before you. I cannot abandon my family to Pemberley while I trail after my husband, even if I am tempted to do so.” She went on tiptoes to brush her lips over his. “You will need to leave after Kitty and Mr. Winkler's ceremony.”

“I was considering the day following the nuptials.” He untied her wrapper's closure and slipped the silky garment from her shoulders.

“I suppose there is no alternative,” she observed as she slid her arms about Darcy's waist and pulled herself closer. “However, I shall miss your warmth terribly. How shall I sleep without you, Fitzwilliam?”

Darcy kissed her temple and then allowed his lips to slide slowly across her cheek and down her neck. “I cannot fathom the emptiness,” he murmured.

“At least, for the cost of a day's ride to Alpin Hall, you may visit with Georgiana and assuage your fears.” She gasped as his lips sought the soft spot at the base of her neck.

“Perhaps we could finish this conversation in the morning, Elizabeth.” His breathing had become shallow, and his voice was low and sensual.

She placed her hands on either side of his face. Lifting his chin so she could reach his lips, she pressed her mouth to his.

As always, his wife's passion was Darcy's undoing. He had long ago accepted his inability to resist her. When she walked into a room, Darcy had to be by her side. She was his true north. His hands tugged at the hem of her gown as his tongue teased over hers—a challenge to meet his desires.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth's fingers worked at the loose knot of his belted robe. “Fitzwilliam,” she groaned when he deepened the kiss.

Darcy swept her into his arms and dropped her onto the bed. His need to feel skin upon skin controlled him. He divested himself of his clothing and then removed Elizabeth's. His mouth returned to hers. “I never want to leave you,” he whispered hoarsely. “You are the breath of my life.”

Arching to him, Elizabeth responded to his touch. “A clarion bell,” she said as her hand slid down his back. “I cannot resist your call.”

“I love you, Lizzy. More than life. You and Bennet are my world.”

Elizabeth looked up to see Mr. Winkler strolling along Pemberley's entrance lane. She had brought Bennet out for some air. She held her young son in her lap and playfully teased the child with a colorful rattle. Bennet cooed and actually smiled at her. Elizabeth's heart sighed in contentment. “Mr. Winkler,” she called, regretting having to share this moment with any other soul besides the boy. “Have your parents arrived safely, Sir?”

The man reached where she sat comfortably in the shade. “They have, Mrs. Darcy.” He bowed politely. “I left them my gig for their use and begged a ride with Mr. Foxmour. He came to fetch Mavis, Nell, and Tavia from the school.”

“How go the studies?” she asked, looking up into the sun and shadowing her eyes with her cupped hand.

Winkler leaned over to play with Bennet. “We have eight to ten students each day. Not always the same children, but I am pleased with our progress.”

“You are a bit early,” she teased good-naturedly. “My Hertfordshire family has not yet arrived.”

Winkler blushed. “I hope my presence is not an encumbrance.” He straightened as Elizabeth gathered the child to her and stood.

“Of course not.” She laughed lightly. “I fear that Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, and Mr. Joseph are sequestered in my husband's study and are dissecting some detestable business matter; however, Mrs. Bingley and my father are in the library. I am certain they shall welcome your company.” She started toward the house. “Come along. We can wait for Kitty's return together.”

In silence, they strolled leisurely across the carefully groomed path. Finally, Winkler said, “I am too transparent.”

“Absolutely not,” she declared. “You are simply a man in love. As the object of your affection is my younger sister, I am delighted by the news.”

Winkler confessed, “I have missed Miss Bennet desperately.”

As she shifted the child in her arms, Elizabeth smiled up at the man. “I had not considered that Kitty was the last of us to be called ‘Miss Bennet.' As Jane and I shared our wedding date, I was only Miss Bennet for a few brief moments. And Lydia married before Jane and never knew that title. Mary has abdicated it. Now it is Kitty's.”

“Only until Monday,” Winkler observed.

“Yes. Yes. Then our Kitty shall be the new Mrs. Winker,” she taunted. “Shall you be satisfied when that occurs?”