“Who are they, what can they want with me and Alex?”
Mr Gardiner was rubbing a hand over his forehead. “Let us deal with one task at a time. Lizzy, we shall visit Mr Haversham at his office this morning and make sure you receive your inheritance.”
Elizabeth nodded.
“Maddie, you and I will inform all the maids and footmen here, and the clerks at the office and warehouse to be on their guard. No gossip under any circumstances is to be spoken. Not even amongst themselves on the street.”
Mrs Gardiner smiled at her husband. “Yes, dear. I will speak to the staff here after you and Lizzy depart.”
“Very good. That is all for now. We will discuss this again later.”
“What about Miss Darcy?” Elizabeth turned her head, looking between her uncle and aunt.
“What about her? They were not inquiring into Miss Darcy.”
“Should we not inform her or Mr Darcy about this? He may wish to keep her from visiting, in case of any upset.”
“Lizzy, we know nothing beyond the two men asking questions. They might even have been sent from Mr Haversham’s office. We will inquire when we meet with him.”
Elizabeth looked unconvinced but held her tongue. For now.
~ / ~
May, 1814
Gardiner Residence
Gracechurch Street
Dear Papa,
We are all well in Gracechurch Street. Alex seems to be growing day by day. However did you and Mama get anything accomplished once us babies were born? It seems near impossible to put him down. Especially now as he is changing so fast. I have enclosed a recent sketch of him for you.
It gives me great pleasure to inform you we have finally been successful in retrieving Gregory’s inheritance. Mr Darcy was of monumental import in this endeavour, even enlisting his uncle, the Earl of Matlock, to assist him. He assured us there were no more impediments and the lawyer was prepared to finally do his duty. My uncle and I visited the offices again yesterday morning and we were greeted like reigning peers. Nothing could be done for us, that was not done immediately. Such a far cry from being denied access just a few days ago. Many papers were signed and at the conclusion the transfer was made.
I am going to my aunt to help me work out a budget. It is important to know what my income per annum shall be. My hope is to set aside a sum which will grow, for Alex’s future.
This will not come as a surprise to you, Papa, but it is now certain we shall not return to live at Longbourn. I have not had an opportunity to speak with Jane, but I shall do everything in my power to inspire her to reach for her felicity with both hands.
Pray, say you will come and visit us wherever we settle. It will bring me joy for you to see your grandson again.
Your affectionate daughter,
Elizabeth
Chapter 18
That afternoon found Elizabeth, Jane and Mrs Gardiner enjoying tea in the parlour. The Gardiner children were still at their lessons and Alex was with a maid in the back parlour, until he had need of his mama.
“Tell me again, how much did you say was in your funds?” Mrs Gardiner had a hand held to her cheek and her eyes were wide.
“Twenty-three thousand pounds.”
“I have heard it several times and I still cannot fathom it. You had no idea, Lizzy?”
“I had no notion of the amount. You know me, aunt, as long as I am comfortable, I do not require more. Gregory assured me we would be, and I did not inquire further. I knew he had removed some of the capital when we married, but I lived so quietly after he sailed, I had no need for more than he had set up for me. It was only after he passed and the funds froze, when I experienced difficulties.
“You will have more than enough now to provide for yourself and Alex.” Mrs Gardiner reassured her niece.
