Darcy did not pursue that line of inquiry. “And what brings you here?” he asked instead.
“We came to see the new gentleman,” Thomas said.
“And to determine whether he is suitable,” Toby added.
“For what purpose?” Darcy asked.
The boys paused. Then Thomas said, with some importance, “For society.”
Darcy’s lips curved, despite himself. “A considerable responsibility.”
“We take it seriously,” Toby said.
“I have no doubt of it.”
They regarded him for a moment longer. “I thinkyouare suitable,” Thomas said.
“I agree,” Toby added.
Darcy nodded his head again. “I am honored by your approval.”
There was another pause, during which the boys seemed to consider him further.
“You do not speak very much,” Toby observed.
“I speak when I have something to say.”
“That is sensible,” Thomas said.
“George Lucas speaks a great deal,” Toby said. “Though not always with success. Or sense.”
“I shall endeavor to avoid that particular failing,” Darcy replied.
The boys smiled.
“Have you always been a gentleman?” Thomas asked.
Darcy considered the question. “For as long as I can remember.”
“Were you ever a pirate?” Toby asked.
Darcy’s expression stayed the same, though something in his eyes suggested amusement. “I regret to say that I was not.”
“We were pirates yesterday,” Thomas said.
“In the orchard,” Toby added.
“And we defeated all our enemies.”
Darcy saluted the boys. “A commendable achievement.”
“Did you never wish to be a pirate?” Toby pressed.
“I had other occupations.”
“What were they?”
Darcy paused.
