Richard’s clasp tightened. “When we departed England, I never imagined that we would both return attached to two such incredible women. I was skepticalabout the lost library as well. Yet we both found treasures beyond compare.”
“That we did!”
After slapping Darcy on the shoulder hard enough to knock him over, had Darcy not expected it, the colonel grabbed a roll from the side table and left.
Later that evening,Darcy sat in his carriage with Elizabeth at his side and Mr. Bennet across from him as it approached Cambridge.
Bennet cleared his throat. “Before we speak to the professor, I wonder if you have considered when you two will wed? My wife has been planning our daughters’ weddings since before they took their first steps. Because of this, I can only assume that nothing less than a long engagement would satisfy her.”
Darcy turned toward Elizabeth, who sat close enough that he could smell the fragrance she typically wore, but far enough that he felt the void severely. Wrapping his gloved fingers around hers, he asked for her opinion.
The sparkle about her relieved his concern even before she spoke. “My preference would be the same day, location, and time as Richard and Prudence in a double wedding ceremony. That way, we will share the celebration with everyone who has become part of our chosen family.”
He almost gasped. Had he looked in a mirror, he knew he would see his entire body on fire for her. “Wednesday, then?”
“If it can be arranged.”
“I am certain that it can be.”
In less than a week, he would be a married man. Settling back in his seat, he contemplated the honor of being Elizabeth’s husband. He would do everything within his power to make her happy and, in so doing, secure his own happiness.
Mr. Bennet’s grin was self-satisfied. “Mrs. Bennet may not be pleased, but I am happy to welcome you to the family as soon and as easily as may be.”
Professor Drye receivedthem in his cluttered study, and soon the scroll cases and pottery jars had been gingerly arranged on his largest table with his students’ help. Darcy was struck by how much the elderly scholar had aged during their absence.
“My dear colleagues! You cannot imagine how eagerly I have awaited this moment.”
Professor Drye approached the first jar with reverent care, his fingers trembling as a student broke the ancient seal. The aroma of dry papyrus and ancient ink slowly filtered into the room. He extracted the first scroll carefully.
“Dear lord! This appears to be completely intact.” He began unrolling the document. “Hebrew. This appears to be portions of the Bible book of Isaiah…but no.” He rubbed his chin. “It is much more than that. Unless I am mistaken, these passages include annotations that do not appear in any other manuscript known to exist.”
Bennet moved closer.
“Are the annotations significant?” Darcy asked.
“Potentially revolutionary. These new scribal notes will likely provide insight that could reshape our understanding of these sacred works.”
The second scroll proved equally astounding. “Aramaic…probably written in ancient Babylon.Thisis from the book of Daniel.”
With each new manuscript, Professor Drye’s exultation grew. “This is treasure beyond any monetary value. These scrolls will occupy scholars for centuries. I intend to share them with the British Museum. They belong to all humanity.”
He fixed them with a look of deep gratitude. “You have accomplished the extraordinary. Future generations will have access to the ancient world thanks to you. There is no treasure greater than this.”
After spendingthe night at an inn, they returned to Cambridge, where the professor shared his findings after reviewing each one of the scroll containers. With each revelation, the travelers rejoiced. Professor Drye was in his element, surrounded by what he loved the most.
Their journey toward Hertfordshire was peaceful. Elizabeth was pleased to note the satisfaction gracing her father’s expression.
“Lizzy, I never expected to see the things we have seen or to do all we have done. Having you with me to share these incredible experiences…well, it adds immeasurably to my gratitude and joy.”
His comment warmed her heart.
Despite their arrival at Longbourn at a late hour, hermother greeted them effusively. To Elizabeth’s delight and astonishment, Mrs. Bennet expressed herself with restraint instead of high-pitched excitement. “Lizzy, I have missed you. And Mr. Darcy…how pleasant to see you again. Welcome to Longbourn.”
Her father directed the butler to maneuver the heavy wooden crate containing his special purchase from Rome into the drawing room. When the crate was opened, and the marble bust revealed, her mother moved closer with obvious curiosity.
“Mr. Bennet, is this…do you really see me in this lovely carving?”
“This is the face that captured my heart when you were seventeen.” His usual dry humor was absent, replaced by sincere tenderness. “It is still the face I see when I look at you now.”
