The Ashes of Longbourn by Schertz Melanie

Author:Schertz, Melanie [Schertz, Melanie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Melanie A Schertz
Published: 2013-05-23T14:00:00+00:00

Chapter 17

Each morning, at breakfast, the previous day’s events were discussed. Darcy and Elizabeth had been so consumed with her treatments that, when they dined in the evenings with everyone, they were tired and wished to enjoy the company of their family. Any business was discussed first thing in the morning.

At the end of the first week of Elizabeth’s treatments, there had been no change in the situation with Wickham and Jolly. Lord Matlock had received two letters from his sister, ranting of her disapproval of his support of Darcy’s marriage, and of the marriage itself. Lady Catherine expected the marriage to be annulled and for Lord Matlock to escort their nephew to Rosings, where he would be forced into marriage to Anne immediately.

Lord Matlock wrote to his sister that the marriage between Darcy and Elizabeth was performed with his approval and he would support the newlyweds. He also contacted the family solicitor to ensure Lady Catherine could not attempt to have the marriage annulled.

The soldiers had arrived and were keeping a watch on Wickham and Jolly. They knew that there was still gun powder that was missing, and Colonel Forster meant to know where the remaining barrels were. The men continued to watch for an opening which would allow them to take Wickham and Jolly without their ability of set off any barrels they may have in the cottages.

It was the middle of the second week that one of the soldiers came quickly to Netherfield. An opportunity had presented itself, and Mr Jolly had been captured. They brought him to Netherfield to interrogate him.

Colonel Fitzwilliam and Colonel Forster were alone in the room, questioning Jolly about the remaining barrels of black powder as well as Wickham’s habits.

“Jolly, we know that you were involved in the theft of the gun powder. How many barrels were taken?” Colonel Forster asked.

“I know not of what you are speaking. I am a loyal tenant of Longbourn, serving Mr Collins in tending his lands. I know nothing of gun powder.”

“So, will you deny that your name is Benjamin Jolly, a private in his majesty’s service, serving under the command of Colonel Jennings? Do you deny that you fled your post when you learned that you were to sail for France to fight in the war?” Colonel Forster continued as Colonel Fitzwilliam remained silent and watched.

“You are mistaken, Sir. My service to my unit was over and I did not wish to continue, so I purchased my leave. I am retired from the military life and wish to live out my days in peace. As for this man, Wickham, I believe you said; I know nothing of such a man. All of the tenant homes are abandoned. There is no one else living in the tenant houses.”

“We have been watching you and Wickham for several days now, and we are well aware of the fact that Mr Collins has fled from the neighborhood, and that you and Mr Wickham are facing charges of deserting your units.

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