Mr. Darcy - A Man of Honour by Jadie Brooks

Author:Jadie Brooks [Brooks, Jadie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-06-14T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter 22

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After Darcy concisely outlined his plan, and had privately detailed to the colonel the errand he wanted his cousin to complete for him, he asked that Miss Bingley give as little information as possible about her brother’s departure. If anyone asked, she was to say that they had travelled at different times because the Bennet ladies needed a little more rest, and Mr. Bingley had an early appointment, and that since Miss Bennet wished to rest a bit longer, she did not accompany her sister to bid good-bye to Miss Bingley and the colonel. She was to say that after a short visit, they returned to Longbourn to fetch her.

“I will conceal the truth of the matter for as long as possible.” Caroline stood from the table, and the Bennet sisters followed suit. “I will see that a food basket is prepared for you.”

Elizabeth stayed her with a hand. “That is not necessary, as Mrs. Hill had one packed for us. However, I believe that we could use something to drink.”

“Of course,” Caroline agreed quickly as she rang for a maid. “You might wish to refresh yourselves before you begin the journey.”

A quarter hour later, the party began to take leave of Netherfield. Darcy offered his hand to help Elizabeth into his carriage when something large and furry jumped between them and almost knocked the pair to the ground.

Mary kept her sister from falling while Mr. Darcy wrestled with a huge dog that was intent upon giving Darcy a thorough face-washing with his massive tongue.

“Down, Beast,” Darcy was finally able to order, as one of the grooms grabbed the dog’s collar.

“Beggin’ your pardon, sir,” the young man sputtered out breathlessly. “He got loose, and he’s a fast one, he is.”

At Darcy’s command, the large black and white spotted canine had dropped to his feet and quivered in joyous delight at seeing his master.

Turning to Elizabeth, Darcy enquired, “Are you well, Miss Elizabeth?”

“I am fine, though a trifle disconcerted.” She grinned as she witnessed the obvious adoration on the dog’s big face. “Will you not introduce me to this handsome animal?”

“Miss Elizabeth, this is Beast,” Darcy replied in a solemn tone that was only belied by the twinkle in his eyes. “Bow to Miss Elizabeth, Beast.”

The dog lowered his head and the front of his body in a very good estimation of a bow, which caused the group gathered to say farewell to laugh gaily.

“You did that very well, sir.” Elizabeth scratched behind Beast’s ears. As when seated, his head reached her shoulder, he easily turned and gave her a canine kiss.

“No!” Darcy commanded the dog, and then to the groom holding his collar, he said. “Paul, get him into position before he causes more damage.”

Elizabeth watched as the young man put down a step next to the wheel, and soon Beast lumbered up and was seated on the floor next to the two drivers. Chuckling again at the humorous sight, she accepted Darcy’s assistance into the coach and was followed by Mary.

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