“Doubtless this has to do with that wretched tea party,” Elizabeth sighed.
***
The following afternoon saw Mr. and Mrs. Darcy walking through the front door of Matlock House. It was a cold day, and Elizabeth would have preferred to stay at home. Happily, there was a fire blazing in the Countess’ drawing room, and hot tea was at hand.
Once cups had been handed around, the Countess began. “Lady Amelia warned me that she did not think Georgiana a suitable match for her son.”
Elizabeth bristled. “And what possible reason did she have for such an opinion?” Her tone was tart, though she had rather expected this.
“Smooth your ruffled feathers, Elizabeth. She is not wrong. She pointed out that the wife of Lord Fane would have a good many obligations, many of which Georgiana might find distasteful. You know how hard the Earl and I work to fulfill our responsibilities.”
Mr. Darcy nodded. “She would have to entertain a good deal, if Lord Fane intends to become political. And she would be in the public eye more than she would like.”
Elizabeth said, “But surely not every Countess must be like you, Aunt Eleanor! Are there not some who prefer a quieter life?”
“Yes, but Lady Amelia seems convinced that Lord Fane will become a political force, following in the footsteps of his father,” the Countess explained.
Elizabeth sighed. “Very well. If that is truly the case, then I see her point. Georgiana is still shy and uncertain; I do not think she would enjoy the duties that would fall to her as Lady Fane.”
“You will warn her away from him? Elizabeth?” Mr. Darcy asked.
“Not precisely, no,” Elizabeth said. “I will simply tell her what is expected of the wife of an Earl.”
***
Georgiana’s face grew pale. “Entertain? Politics?”
“Yes,” Elizabeth said, solemnly. “You would be in the public eye a good deal, so your every move would be noticed.”
“I do not think I would like that.”
“No, Georgiana, I do not think you would either.”
“But we always have so much to talk about! And he is so very kind! And handsome!”
“He is, yes.” Elizabeth thought there was no point in arguing the facts.
“I just do not know,” the girl sighed. “I can manage an estate, thanks to you and Mrs. Annesley, but I would dislike being – well, watched. And having to meet a good many people and give grand, stately dinners! I do not know if I would like all of that.”
Elizabeth agreed, “I am very glad to be the wife of a simple country farmer.”
Georgiana had to giggle at the idea of Fitzwilliam being a simple country farmer, but her face soon became thoughtful. “Perhaps I could grow accustomed to it,” she said.
“Accustomed to…?”
“Being watched. Giving dinners. After all, my great-aunt, the Countess, would be here to help me.”
Elizabeth sighed, but did not reply. Evidently Georgiana really liked Lord Fane.
***
Later that night, Mr. Darcy whispered to his wife. “And there is another thing…”
“About what?”
“Georgiana. Should she marry an earl, her past would doubtless come to light.”
In the darkness, Elizabeth’s face grew pale. “Wickham?” she whispered.
