Page 189 of What Change Entails

“Then you have reviewed the documents, sir?”

“Enough of them.”

The next several hours disappeared into work.

Survey maps emerged.

Boundary stones received inspection.

Witnesses provided statements.

One laborer produced information after Whitacre’s wife supplied him with a plate of bread and cheese.

Darcy listened.

Questioned.

Measured.

Compared records.

By sunset the essential facts had become plain.

Sir John possessed no legitimate claim.

His men had moved boundary markers deliberately.

The matter would proceed through proper legal channels if necessary.

Maddox handed him another paper.

“Your instructions for the solicitor, sir.”

Darcy reviewed them, made two alterations, and returned the document.

“Good.”

Whitacre shifted uneasily. “Will you remain the night, sir?”

Mrs. Whitacre emerged from the doorway at precisely that moment.

Darcy suspected she had spent the last quarter hour preparing a guest chamber.

Under different circumstances he would have accepted.

The house was comfortable.

The hour advanced and the weather threatened rain.

He found himself glancing east toward Pemberley and home.

Toward Elizabeth.

“No.”

Whitacre blinked.

“No, sir?”