Lizzie Bennet Agent for the Crown Read online

  Lizzie Bennet

  Agent for the Crown

  By Elizabeth Hopkins

  Book One

  Table of Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Epilogue

  Chapter 1

  Lizzie Bennet sat in the window seat of her room with her knees tucked under her chin and sighed heavily. She glanced out of the window where a light snow fall was dusting the ground. It would all be gone by tomorrow she thought.

  It was now over three months since the Netherfield party had left for town, never to return.

  Her heart broke for her sister Jane. Lizzie realized that her sister was truly in love with Mr. Bingley and was nursing a broken heart. Absolutely nothing Lizzie could do or say would lift her sister’s spirts. And what of her own diminished spirits? She loved a good walk rambling through the woods or up to Oakum Mount but the cold weather restricted her to the small gardens surrounding her home. I must do something! She could not bring herself to translate the Greek and Latin text that brought her such enjoyment.

  It is the sameness she thought. Every day is the same. The same people, the same assemblies where she danced and conversed with the same people. Although she loved to dance, she forgoed last night’s assembly and stayed at home with her father and Jane.

  She thought of the Nertherfield party and Mr. Darcy in particular. She had come to relish the time she had spent in his company, either in lively debates, playing chess, or walking thru the woods to Oakum Mount. She also thought him a very handsome man, possessing such bright blue eyes, a devastating smile, and a very manly form. She blushed at recalling those broad shoulders and his very strong thighs. He was the only man, besides her father, that appreciated her wit and intelligence. Lizzie sighed again get a hold of yourself girl! A man such as Mr. Darcy was so far above your station in life, that he will never offer for a country Miss such as yourself.

  There was a knock at the door and Hill, their housekeeper, entered. “Mr. Bennet wishes to see you in his study Miss Lizzie.”

  “Thank You Hill. I will be along directly.”

  When Lizzie entered her father’s study he bade her to take the seat in front of his desk that she always occupied. She was the favorite of his five daughters and the only one invited into his inner sanctum.

  He peered over his spectacles at her for a few moments before speaking.

  “My dear girl, what has brought you so low? Is it Jane and her unhappiness over Mr. Bingley’s departure?”

  Lizzie shifted uncomfortably in her seat before replying. “I do not know for certain father. Jane’s sadness over the loss of Mr. Bingley is certainly one of my concerns, but lately I keep hoping that something will occur to break me of this ennui.”

  Hmmm, Mr. Bennet thought to himself. I believe she is missing one of the Netherfield party in particular and it is not Mr. Bingley. He had covertly observed his favorite daughter when she was in the company of Mr. Darcy. Those two are half in love with each other but will never admit it.

  “I believe you are in need of a diversion Lizzie, and it is for that reason that I have written to your aunt and Uncle Gardiner. I have now received their reply and they would be delighted to have you visit them in London. I have made all the arrangements and you will leave tomorrow morning, with our footman accompanying you. Please see to your trunks being packed.”

  Lizzie was startled for the moment and asked “What about Jane?” Her father replied somewhat sternly “Jane will recover in time. There is nothing you, I or anyone else can do to hasten her recovery, unless it is the return of Mr. Bingley which I doubt will ever occur. It is best that you go to visit the Gardiners.”

  “Very well father, since all the arrangements have been made and you do insist.”

  “I do insist Lizzie. I feel that this is best for you so please see to your preparations for your departure tomorrow morning.”

  Lizzie stood and went and went around to her father’s desk and pecked him on the cheek.

  “Thank you father.”

  Chapter 2

  The Gardiner’s lived on Gracechruch Street in the Cheapside section of London, within walking distance of her uncle’s warehouses. Mr. Gardiner was the sole proprietor of Gardiner’s Imports. He was very successful and had a reputation for being a fair but shrewd businessman. Their home was the largest on the street and was tastefully furnished. The Gardiner’s were well dressed, well-spoken and educated and were often taken for people of quality. They were the very best of relations, and Lizzie loved them dearly. Theirs was a marriage of great affection and respect, one which Lizzie aspired to have for herself one day.

  Her aunt Madeline came out of the house to greet her favorite niece as the carriage pulled up to the front steps. Lizzie alighted from the carriage and her aunt enveloped her in a fierce hug.

  “My dear Lizzie, I am so happy to see you! Your uncle and I have planned entertainments for you that we hope you will find enjoyable.”

  “Thank you Aunt” Lizzie replied. “You are too kind and I look forward to whatever you have planned. I am very happy to be here but let us go into the house as it is too cold out here for you.”

  “Oh yes, of course. Forgive me Lizzie. Your cousins have been watching out of the window faithfully for you to arrive.”

  Lizzie entered the house and handed her outerwear to the butler, as all four Gardiner children rushed to greet her. The Gardiner’s had four rambunctious boys; Edward aged 8, Henry 6, Arthur 4, and 2 year old Michael who was tugging on her skirt.

  They were all speaking at once.

  “Cousin Lizzie will you read to us?”

  “Cousin Lizzie will you play with us?”

  “I have toy soldiers that father gave me!”

  “Izzi! Izzi!” Two year old Michael yelled, trying to get his share of her attention.

  She crouched down to hug them all at once. “Oh my, you dear sweet boys! Of course I will read and play with you and when the weather becomes warmer, we shall all go to the park and feed the ducks.”

  “That is enough boys” said Mrs. Gardiner. “Nanny, please take the boys up to the nursery. Your cousin Lizzie and I shall join you later for your tea.”

  “Yes mama” They replied in unison. Lizzie watched the boys reluctantly ascend the stairs.

  “Oh Aunt, they are such darling boys. I forgot how much I missed them.”

  “And they missed you as well. They have not forgotten how you played with them. Now, would you like to refresh yourself or would you prefer a cup of tea?”

  “A cup of tea sounds lovely aunt.”

  Her aunt led her into the parlor where they settled into two comfortable chairs before the fire while they awaited the tea tray.

  “What news of Longbourn Lizzie? How is Jane? Has she recovered as yet from Mr. Bingley’s abandonment?”

  Lizzie sighed “Oh Aunt, Jane attempts to put on a good face but she cannot hide her sadness from me. I feel so powerless as there is nothing I can say or do to raise her spirits. It is the reason why father sent me to town. He felt that Jane’s low spirits were affecting me detrimentally and in hindsight I have to agree with him. It is difficult to watch a most beloved sister brought so low with unhappiness.”

  “I am grieved by Jane’s sadness but are you certain Mr. Bingley wil
l not return?”

  “After the Netherfield party left for town, Jane received a letter from Miss Bingley stating that they had no intentions of returning. I thought it malice on her part as no one who ever observed Mr. Bingley and Jane together could deny they were in love. But I am no longer so hopeful as it had been almost four months. Those horrid sisters of his convinced him to abandon Jane and return to town.”

  “Are you certain Lizzie?” asked her aunt.

  “Yes aunt I am. If you had met them you would agree that they are the most haughty, snobbish people you have ever met. They rejoiced in looking down their noses at everyone and did not pass up an opportunity to sling insults and snide remarks. I say good riddance to the two most disagreeable women I have ever encountered!”

  When they had consumed the tea and scones, her aunt stood up and asked Lizzie if she would accompany her to her Uncle Edward’s warehouse.

  “Your uncle has obtained some very fine bolts of silk and I had them put aside for you. I have also secured an appointment with my modiste for tomorrow for you to have some gowns made.”

  “Oh Aunt, you are too generous but I assure you I do not need any more gowns.”

  “While you are visiting Lizzie, we will be attending one or two balls, dinners and of course the theater. Please indulge me in this Lizzie, as it brings me great pleasure. Having only boys, I enjoy spoiling you.” Mrs. Gardner placed her hand over her middle.

  Lizzie raised her eyebrows at this statement. “Aunt?” she queried.

  “Yes Lizzie, I am increasing and the baby is due sometime in July. We are waiting to tell everyone so I ask you to keep my confidence.”

  “Of course Aunt, but should you not be resting?”

  Aunt Gardiner laughed “Having done this four times already, I know what to expect. Although I am indisposed most mornings, it will soon pass and I am fine for the rest of the day. Let us retrieve our outerware and be on our way. I take it you prefer to walk the one block to your Uncle’s offices?”

  “Oh yes Aunt. I need to stretch my legs after the carriage ride.”

  Chapter 3

  As Lizzie and her Aunt were perusing silks in her Uncle’s warehouse, Fitzwilliam Darcy was reviewing accounts in his study at Darcy house when a knock came at the door.

  Without lifting his head from the ledger he called out “Enter”.

  The butler, Mr. Bradley, entered the study and stood in front of his master’s desk waiting for him to speak.

  Darcy lifted his head and asked “What is it Bradley?”

  “Sir, a large package has just been delivered for you. It appears to be a picture. What would you have me do with it?”

  “Have it brought into my study.”

  The butler returned with two footmen carrying the large package. It certainly does appear to be a picture Darcy thought. He instructed the butler to have the package unwrapped and then was handed an envelope.

  “This missive came with the delivery sir.”

  “Thank you Bradley. That will be all.”

  Before opening the envelope Darcy glanced at the picture and was startled. For indeed it was a picture, but of his mother Lady Anne painted at the time of her debut in society almost 30 years earlier. The last time he saw this picture it was hanging in the gallery at Matlock house, the home of his cousin Rupert, the sixth Earl of Matlock. His Uncle Edwin, the fifth Earl, had passed two years prior.

  Why is Rupert sending me my mother’s picture?

  He opened the envelope and received another shock. Enclosed was a business card with writing that stated This picture recently came into my possession but I have been advised that it rightly belongs to you. He turned the card over and read:

  Edward Gardiner

  Gardner Imports

  Gracechurch Street London

  He placed the card in his pocket and called for his butler to bring his outerwear, coat and hat.

  “I am going out Bradley but should return within the hour.”

  “Very good sir.”

  Darcy decided to walk since Matlock House was but one block over from his own home. As Darcy walked, he ruminated on what he could recall being said of Mr. Gardiner, as having never met the man himself. He had a well-known reputation for being a shrewd and prominent businessman. What was less known, and only to a few, mostly those in the ton, was that Gardiner was also a very successful money lender.

  He bought vowels from peers owing gambling debt and then accepted estates, homes, heirlooms, anything of value to satisfy said debt. He was very discreet and did a thriving business.

  Gardiner always received payment or the debtor would face prison as did one Baron who refused to honor his debt and was promptly jailed until his relations satisfied the debt. Darcy was baffled as to how Gardiner came into possession of his mother’s portrait.

  Darcy reached Matlock House and noticed the knocker was not on the door. Darcy recalled that he had not been here since his Uncle died. He was not close with his cousin Rupert, and preferred the companionship of the Earl’s younger brother Richard.

  Darcy had to rap twice with his cane before the door was finally opened by a young girl in a maid uniform that was obviously two sizes too big on her. He handed the girl his card and asked to see his Lordship.

  “Not here sir” replied the girl.

  “When he is expected?” asked Darcy.

  “Don’t know sir.”

  “Where is Mr. Dealy, the butler?”

  “I don’t know no Mr. Dearly sir. Only Missus Abbot and meself here.”

  Darcy remembered that Mrs. Abbot was the housekeeper that had served his Uncle.

  “I would like to speak with Mrs. Abbot.”

  The young girl wobbled a curtsy and left him to find the housekeeper. While he waited, Darcy looked in the front rooms and was shocked to see them baron of all furnishings.

  Mrs. Abbot appeared and curtsied. “Mr. Darcy, it has been sometime since you have visited Matlock House.”

  “Mrs. Abbott, please tell me what is happening here? All of the furnishing, rugs and pictures have been removed and the house appears to be unlived in. Where is my cousin the Earl?”

  Mrs. Abbot looked acutely embarrassed. “I do not know where his Lordship is sir. He has not resided here for some time. His Lordship had everything removed from the house. Except for Sally and myself, all the servants have left. We have not been paid for some time sir. We are still here because we have no other home to go to.”

  Darcy was mortified and angered upon hearing Mrs. Abbot’s reply and acutely embarrassed himself. He must speak to Richard at once. He was certain that his cousin was unaware of his brother’s behavior.

  He reached in his pocket for his purse and handed Mrs. Abbot a handful of coins. “Please take this for yourself and the girl.”

  “Oh no sir, it is not necessary,” Mrs. Abbot insisted.

  “But it is necessary Mrs. Abbot. You have been a loyal retainer to Matlock House for over 30 years and I am grieved to learn that you have been treated in this deplorable fashion.”

  “Thank you sir, you always were very kind.”

  “Is the Countess aware of what has occurred at Matlock House?”

  “No sir, I have not seen her ladyship since the old Earl passed. She remains at the Matlock Estate and does not come to town.”

  “Very well. I ask that you please remain here with the girl until such time that I have settled this business. I will be at Darcy House if you have need to contact me.”

  Mrs. Abbot curtsied and relied “Thank you again sir. You have been too kind and generous.”

  Darcy left Matlock House and went straight to his home where he ordered his horse saddled. He rode to the Needleham Hotel where his cousin Richard kept rooms.

  After handing the reins of his horse to the stable boy, Darcy strode into the hotel and went straight to the front desk to inquire after his cousin. He was advised by the hotel manager that his cousin was not in residence at present, but that his batman, Sergeant Chessup was cu
rrently in his room. Darcy thanked the man and made his way up the stairs.

  Chessup answered immediately and welcomed Darcy into his room.

  “The Colonel is presently away sir. He is out of town for a few days.”

  “When do you expect his return Sergeant?”

  “I expect he will return the day after tomorrow. Is there anything I can help you with sir?”

  “I have urgent business I must discuss with the Colonel at his earliest convenience. Would you be so kind as to relay my message?”

  “I will inform him as soon as he returns sir.”

  Darcy thanked the man and took his leave.

  He glanced at his watch and realized it was too late in the day to visit Gardiner’s Imports. He decided to leave that visit for tomorrow and made his way back to Darcy house.

  He sat behind his desk in his study staring at his mother’s picture, which was propped up against a wall.

  Oh Rupert, what have you done? He thought to himself. He knew that his cousin was a wastrel and degenerate gambler but still found it hard to believe that his cousin had sunk so low.

  Darcy was agitated and needed to calm himself. He forced himself to think of more pleasant thoughts. Those mainly of an impertent Miss from the country.

  His frown was replaced with a wistful smile as fond remembrances of their time spent together came to mind. He loved her beautiful eyes that brightened whenever they debated. And her pleasing figure! He could ruminate for hours on her curves and generous breasts. He groaned and thought if not for the situation with Bingley, he would offer for her. For she was his equal and possessed all that he required in a wife.

  Chapter 4

  The following morning, Darcy presented himself at Edwin Gardiner’s place of business. He handed the clerk his card and requested to speak with Mr. Gardiner. The clerk took his card and asked him to wait.

  When the clerk returned, he was escorted to Mr. Gardiner’s office.

  Darcy was impressed with what he saw. It was a spacious room tastefully furnished with rugs and bookcases. A large mahogany desk sat in the center of the room behind which Mr. Gardiner rose when Darcy entered.