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At the word “kidnap” William’s entire countenance darkened. It was not lost on Richard, who began to consider what his cousin would do if someone were actually able to abscond with Elizabeth. He roused from his reverie though, as Gwendolyn began a recitation of the first time she met the count.

~~~*~~~

Richard was beginning to be concerned, as William had not uttered a word since leaving Lady Waltham’s townhouse—not even in response to his statements regarding what they had just heard. Instead, he stared blankly out the carriage window.

He leaned forward to shake his shoulder. “Say something, or I shall assume you are in need of a physician and act accordingly. I know you are reserved, but this is ridiculous.”

William’s countenance did not lighten at his teasing, as was customary. Instead, his gaze never left the window as he seemed to study something that only he could see. Then swallowing with great difficulty, he replied hoarsely, “I was mistaken to leave Elizabeth alone at Pemberley. I should have kept her right by my side, so I could protect her.”

“My Lord, Darce! You might not have been able to prevent this, even had you been at Pemberley or were she here with you. You cannot watch her every hour of the day and night. Now, quit thinking along such lines and begin to help me formulate a plan to deal with this blackguard.”

William attempted to recover, fixing his gaze on Richard. “I have been trying to figure it out—make sense of it in my head—but I am not sure where to begin. Gwendolyn said they talked of abducting Elizabeth as soon as I arrived in London. If this is true, there may very well be an express on the way informing me she is missing. I am torn between racing to Pemberley to try to prevent an abduction and assuming that they have already taken her. My heart tells me that I should head straight to Liverpool to keep her from being spirited aboard a ship bound for Italy. If she were removed to somewhere that I could not recover her at once ...” William’s voice trailed off, and he shook his head at the prospect, tears clearly visible in his eyes.

Seeing his anguish, Richard moved to sit beside him, slipping an arm about his shoulder. “Trust your heart. It would make sense to go to Liverpool first. When you send word to Pemberley and Rosewood Manor, tell them we shall be at the Landmark Inn in Liverpool in four days, and advise them to send us news at that establishment. If everything is well, we shall simply return to Pemberley from Liverpool.”

William straightened, sitting up taller. “I shall send a special express to Mrs. Reynolds and also to Evan and Georgiana the moment I get back to the house. Meanwhile, if you will direct Lieutenant Marbury to inspect the address Gwendolyn provided for Stefano, perhaps we can learn if he actually has quit London. If we get no clear answer soon, I feel we have no choice but to head straight for Liverpool.”

“Have you considered who this woman might be—the one who is to convince Elizabeth to leave Pemberley?”

“I have absolutely no idea.”

Further discussion was ended as, at that moment, the carriage pulled to a stop in front of William’s home. As the footman opened the door, a familiar face stepped towards them.

“Mr. Darcy, I came to inform you of what I lately have heard regarding Stephen. It appears that he has left London.”

William mouth dropped into a scowl. “Please come inside. I have just received information regarding him as well.”

Lord Stanton’s voice was full of concern. “Of course!”

Once everyone was seated in William’s study, he related to the count’s father the entirety of Gwendolyn Waltham’s early morning revelation.

Stanton sighed heavily. “I wish I knew with certainty his destination, but all my man could tell me was that he left in a coach with a Mr. Wickham, so it seems as though your source may indeed be correct.”

“If he is with Wickham, I have to assume that they are headed to Liverpool to meet the coach that has Elizabeth. There is no way Wickham would be able to enter Pemberley.”

“Are you confident they will succeed in persuading Miss Elizabeth to agree to leave your estate, Mr. Darcy?”

William reflected on the many times Elizabeth had expressed concern for his safety. “Whoever they sent to Pemberley has only to convince Elizabeth that my life, or that of my sister, is at stake and she would leave. She would never place either of us in jeopardy.”

“I fear you are most likely correct. Miss Elizabeth was far too tender-hearted for her own good.” Stanton breathed deeply. “Would that I could stop him.”

William’s steely eyes met the earl’s. “I intend to stop him. I will find Elizabeth and take her from him for the last time.”

Stanton lowered his head. “I understand. Your first concern must be for Elizabeth. Now, I should leave you to your plans. Do not bother rising, Mr. Darcy; I can see myself out.” With those words, the elderly man exited the room.

Richard spun back around to William. “With your permission, I shall have Mr. Barnes inform the coachman to ready the coach with all speed and to send a groom ahead to make arrangements for fresh horses at the inns I will specify. I know that route well. I have travelled it many times in my service to the crown.”

William nodded and Richard started towards the door, calling back over his shoulder, “We should be able to leave at dawn.”

William’s deep baritone rang out, “We shall leave within the hour.”

Richard halted mid-stride, turning awkwardly. “Surely not today?”

“Within the hour, Richard.”

“But how in blazes will the servants get everything ready in time?”

“My coachman is well aware of my propensity to travel at will. I am certain he has already checked the coach and is only awaiting my orders to leave. I have plenty of horses available, so in one hour I shall be on my way. Will you be joining me?”