Mary and Georgiana exchanged a look.
They had decided at Allison's wedding that words between Charlotte and Mr. Colbourne would never be enough for them to truly know each other. Only shared experiences would bring them closer and give them the trust and understanding necessary for a successful union. All of the pain and misunderstandings of the past had put them in a position where only time and experience would show Charlotte who Mr. Colbourne really was. Mr Colbourne would likewise only understand Charlotte's resilience and strength by seeing her in action and getting to know her as a peer. He needed to know that he could not destroy her, that she would assert herself. She needed to see the depth of his humor and intelligence as well as his kindness. This effort to find Georgiana's mother was the perfect way to give them the time and experience they needed.
They glanced back at the pair in question, looked back at each other with secret smiles and each took a sip of their tea. Their plan was proceeding apace.
Mr Colbourne finally revealed that he had written to connections in a nearby community of freed men and women. One of his connections had written back to let them know that a member of their community, a ferrier by trade, had known a woman in Antigua who resembled Georgiana's mother. They had made the crossing to England together and he was willing to talk to Georgianna. The community was insular and distrustful of outsiders. The Act to Abolish the Transatlantic Slave Trade had passed Parliament in 1807, but the struggle to completely abolish all slavery was not yet won. Mrs. Wheatley was known to them, as was Mr. Colbourne. He admitted with a humble, embarrassed expression that he had been active in the abolition movement for some time. He would be happy to escort Miss Lamb to the town where they lived and facilitate introductions.
"Of course it would not be proper for us to go without a chaperone, or other company. Miss Heywood, would you be willing to accompany us."
Seeing a slight nod from Georgianna, Charlotte replied "Of course, I would be delighted to help."
