Mrs Hobbs was shaking her head. “I told ’er Hannah was a new maid. With the missus carrying on about bein’ a burden, she won’ be happy knowin’ ye sent for a maid of yer own.”
Darcy grimaced. “I abhor disguise, but if saying so eases Mrs Carrington’s recuperation, I will agree to it.”
He turned to address the maid, “You will attend Mrs Carrington and assist with anything she needs. Mrs Hobbs here,” he nodded at the innkeeper’s wife, “will explain everything you need to know about the situation. Discretion is no less important here, than at Darcy House.”
Hannah curtseyed. “Yes, sir,” and she entered the room making as little sound as possible.
Mrs Hobbs remained with the Darcy siblings, giving them both a stern look. “I suggest ye find a way ta keep yerselves busy t’day. The missus needs rest and will be gettin’ used ta havin’ a babe needin’ ’er all hours o’the day.
“Do you think I might be able to visit tomorrow?” Georgiana hopefully inquired.
“Aye, if the missus is fever free and rested. It’ll be good for ’er spirits ta ’ave some company.” Mrs Hobbs nodded once and turning around, she too entered the room, closing the door behind her.
Darcy looked at his sister with raised brows. “Well, Georgie. We have our marching orders. Shall we see if there are any sights to see in the surrounding area.” He held out an elbow for her to take.
Curling her hand around his arm, she gave him a big smile, “Yes indeed.”
The siblings decided to request a packed lunch, and taking out the carriage, they toured the countryside in a leisurely fashion. Not sharing much conversation, when they did speak it tended to be on the subject of Mrs Carrington and baby Gregory Alexander.
~ /~
The next morning saw a repeat of Elizabeth’s protests. However, this time Hannah called for her young mistress to help.
The maid opened the room’s door for Miss Darcy to hear Elizabeth say, “I insist on leaving today. I cannot take advantage of everyone’s kindness. ’Tis too much.”
“Elizabeth!”
Hearing Georgiana’s voice startled her, and she ceased her attempts to dress herself.
“Please think of your son. It is too soon to have him out and about and travelling in a carriage. In a post carriage, no less? The very idea!”
Elizabeth glared at Hannah, realising the maid told her new friend everything. Standing at her full, if diminutive height, she faced the younger woman, “Georgiana, I cannot stay here indefinitely, and my family will be concerned.” Elizabeth was blinking, trying desperately hard to keep the tears from falling.
Georgiana edged closer to Elizabeth taking one slow step at a time, until she was directly in front of her. Lifting one of Elizabeth’s hands, Georgiana clasped it tightly.
“Elizabeth, it is not indefinitely, it is only for a few more days until you and Gregory Alexander are strong enough to travel. And by allowing us to help you, it contributes to the healing from our own loss. We could not save my brother’s wife, but we can be of great help to you and to your son.” She squeezed Elizabeth’s hand. “Pray, let me do this for you. It brings me so much comfort. Perhaps we might compose a letter to your family, and I shall ask my brother to send it express. I am sure it will greatly relieve them to hear from you.”
Crying again, Elizabeth could only nod.
Soon, between Hannah and Mrs Hobbs, Elizabeth was once again changed into a night-rail and tucked into bed.
“Hannah,” Georgiana spoke quietly to the Darcy maid. “Will you go and retrieve ink, paper and a pen from Mr Darcy? As soon as Elizabeth wakes, I wish to be able to offer her the opportunity to write her letter. Oh, and please ask my maid to come up as well.”
“Yes, miss.” Hannah curtseyed and left on her errand.
Georgiana sat down on a nearby chair and looked to Mrs Hobbs with raised eyebrows, silently inquiring what next.
“She is very tired,” Mrs Hobbs responded in a whisper. “’Tis normal. A new mama gets little sleep durin’ the night, what with feedin’ the babe. She should rest, but spendin’ time with ye’ll be a good tonic, too.”
Elizabeth yawned and all the other women laughed softly.
“Elizabeth,” Georgiana placed a hand gently on Elizabeth’s arm. “Has Gregory Alexander been fed?”
“Yes.”
“Good. Then you shall rest, and I will stay here watching over him.Youmust sleep.
“No, Georgiaaaah…” Another yawn overtook Elizabeth.
