Here is the new chapter. I am having some doubts about it, I hope it doesn't seem too far-fetched (it already is far-fetched) but bear with me. It will make some sense later, I hope. I wanted to take the opportunity to thank the anonymous reviewer 'T' for the very kind and almost too flattering review :) I know this story is far from being of the good quality I seek but I will try to make it better. I intend on revising it entirely after I finish it. In any case, I hope you like this chapter and don't frown too much after reading it. If you do, you can express it in criticism, it is always welcome.
Chapter 23: Intrigue
I shall repeat myself, but the weather was spoilt again. Believe me, it is not my work, the skies would not heed to the angry looks of Mrs. Gardiner who condemned such wet season. It kept pouring and pouring and for the next two days it rained with such passion and fury that it was believed it would last a fortnight.
Mr. Toddler had continuous back pains because of this change and complained a great deal at the office. For this reason he stopped coming and decided to remain at home until the rain stopped. It was torture for him, since he got bored easily and had no real company except for a very inefficient cook. He penned letters to Mrs. Gardiner and Lady Nordstrom which were neither considered of some importance nor replied, for the first was occupied with finishing her tasks at the "hamper of good will" which needed immediate attention since the ladies in the district were impatient for their turn and had started to whisper at this tardiness, and the latter was already in the process of preparing the formalities for the birthday party of a husband whom she was reminded of on such occasions.
Arthur, however, was not put off by such impoliteness, for he had his own evils to take care of. He was certain he was ill and, as a veritable hypochondriac, thought he had all the illnesses in the world, courtesy to the horrid back pain. He started having headaches and slept badly, yet he felt too indisposed to see a doctor.
He decided he would prepare his own herbs, as his grandmother had taught him when he was a young lad. Her formulas never failed and he considered most of the physicians of London quacks, compared to the vast knowledge of the deceased elder.
The great mischief with this man was that, no matter how good his intentions, he always managed to cause himself much trouble and vexation, whilst others around him took advantage of his weakness and thrived. For this reason, he was considered quite selfless. A close inspection would show he was not only a miser, but a most egocentric gentleman, who considered himself an altruist for hiding his great vanity in public.
And, if such summary has been made, it can only be concluded that, Mr. Toddler concocted a most suspicious herbal tea, an old family recipe and drank four cups of it with great pleasure. The result was that, by six o' clock in the evening he could no longer get out of bed.
Mr. Gardiner was alarmed to hear of this state and sent for the physician urgently at the poor man's abode, for which Arthur was very grateful, yet displeased at having to be chided for his recklessness. Both his friend and the doctor advised him to stay away from his grandmother's old recipes book.
The news of his sickness reached Lady Nordstrom and caused the woman much annoyance. She was neither worried nor alarmed, she was convinced he would be out and about in just a matter of days, but she was nevertheless distraught at being abandoned this way, a victim to the insufferably silent evenings of spring, when everyone went about having a good time. In fact, until she received proof from the physician, she had been certain that Arthur was staying in bed to avoid her dreary company.
The only person whose disposition was improved at hearing this was Mrs. Gardiner, who, though having some reserves, proposed that Mary should go and pay a visit to the gentleman immediately. She thought the company of friends to be ten times more necessary than the taking of medicine.
Of this futile good deed Mary was saved by Mr. Gardiner who insisted that, as long as they did not know what the man had exactly, Mary had better stay away.
So came Wednesday with more cheerful weather, though the only improvement was the lack of rain. The sky remained grey and the streets wet, a pleasant wind brushed the leaves and stormed the flowers, but a walk was suitable to revive one's spirits.
Mr. Toddler was agitated, for he had urgent business with Mr. Prowler and in his present condition there was not even a thought of it. I have told you he was a miser, therefore he would not let any opportunity slip, business was business, London was London, there was no time to dawdle. Indeed, when Mr. Gardiner called he was in a bad disposition, but seeing as his friend was preparing to go on a walk, he was struck by the possibility of procuring a messenger.
'I w-wonder Sir, whether… you would be a-apt to do me a favour,' he said languidly, caressing the quilt under her him as he lay seated in bed, with a mug of coffee on the bedside table.
His private chambers, though not exceedingly large, were not humble, for, being a man of no taste, he had acquired all sort of statues and figurines, paintings and sculptures, vases and painted pots, all together in a large stew of undesirable objects.
'Why, do you even doubt it, Arthur? I am at your service in your time of need.'
'I would not e-expect less from you…my c-cook has written this s-short note for me…I c-cant hold the pen…my hand t-trembles and I lose s-strength immediately. But I am…a-apprehensive of the post…you see, I n-need the note to arrive promptly…and I do not t-trust…'
'Say no more, Sir, if you wish me to deliver the note to Mr. Prowler indeed I shall,' spoke Mr. Gardiner kindly.
'O-Oh! Thank you, I am indebted…but p-please, give it to him personally…'
He pointed to the bedside table, on which two sheets of paper, mucked with ink and soot, lay carelessly. Mr. Gardiner raised an eyebrow disconcerted and he had every reason to. The small note Arthur's cook had written was a two pages length epistle, written on both sides of the paper in small, yet coarse writing.
Nevertheless, the man folded the papers and placed them in his waistcoat pocket, promising to do exactly as expected. Yet it was quite early in the morning, he would return home first to have something to eat, after which he would take Mary out on a walk and would not forget of course to pass by Mr. Prowler's with the "note".
At hearing that Miss Bennet was walking out, Mr. Toddler implored she came to see him, in a manner which reminded one of the wailings of the patient for his old sickly nurse, who, however, held the laudanum he craved for.
Mr. Gardiner promised he would try to call in the afternoon with his niece, if it did not tire the ill man. Mr. Toddler was thoroughly pleased now and only wished his friend would leave so he could sprawl his legs comfortably and sip from his mug loudly.
At home, Mrs. Gardiner was happy at this prospect and insisted that they pay him a visit when they returned and had them take some oatcake with them, in case Mr. Toddler wished some sweets.
The morning had ended some time ago and Mary and Mr. Gardiner were walking the dismal streets in a happy mood, for, the people were scarce, the carts few, the chattering quiet, the smell of lime strong. It was perfect time for a walk; only, men and women did not encourage outings for fear of staining their dresses or walking alone, with no company and be seen as wondering fools. Luckily, Mary Bennet had no such notions of urban manners and was glad to smell the fresh air after the rain, just as she did in the country.
She was keen on seeing the parks again, but Mr. Gardiner was not an adept of such walks and considered it dull when there was so much to see in the city centre. She was disappointed by this, she thought Saint James' Park was one of the highest attractions and could not understand anyone's reluctance at visiting it every day.
'There are green lands everywhere Mary, there are three other parks just as large and charming, but you see all that in the country. What better scenery than that! All day long you gaze at the sunny meadows, you must make room for the attractions of this life, this life of town. The object of observation and reflection here is far more interesting for it deals with character, the essence of life. Here is where man shows who he truly is.'
'I was under the impression that such mediums offered the opportunity to be as deceitful as possible,' commented Mary.
'Ha! You were the one deceived, Mary, upon my word. There is nothing as intriguing as town. The hardships here do not compare to those of the country folk. The industrial revolution has taken us to a new level of prosperity, but the price we pay! Our pockets are bleeding, I tell you! I manage to survive, for I have always been active and my father left me his trade. Mrs. Gardiner's mother bestowed the family jewels upon her, we were very lucky indeed, but beyond that… You must breathe the air of London and see it reveals us all as we are.'
Mary believed such speech was very much affected and quite inadequate. His exaggerations came from his false perceptions not only of town, but of the country itself. The country was suffering equal changes, but when one does not live in one place, one cannot say. Only for this, she reluctantly remained silent and nodded her head in acquiescence.
'And how is Mr. Toddler getting along?' she asked in order to revert the subject.
'By God! The poor fellow, he is quite a miserable sight, Mary…but…ah! I completely forgot! He asked me to go see Prowler for him. Come! Let's have with it, before I forget completely,' he said changing their direction and heading for Rosebery Avenue. It was done so quickly, that Mary did not even have time to understand as she quickened her pace to suit her uncle's.
'But dear uncle, what is the haste? Why must we see Mr. Prowler?'
'Oh, he has asked me to deliver a…a note to his lawyer and he wouldn't trust anyone else. He is quite a careful fellow, probably urgent business and I promised I would do it as soon as possible.'
His niece was obviously not pleased to be rushed this way and felt embarrassed when she thought they would come unannounced and make a fool of themselves. In these situations there could be no prior announcement indeed, but that did not ease her. However, she was not as reluctant as before of seeing Mr. Prowler, she had found good company in him, which was hard to find at Longbourn and in all Hertfordshire.
When they arrived, it was quire clear the sky was gathering some small clouds for a short watering and they were lucky to step inside, when the drops started to fall.
Mr. Croswell was not at his desk and was not to be found, but that was not the only impediment. When Mr. Gardiner quickly searched the pockets of his waistcoat, he discovered with distraught that he had left the epistle home.
How could he have achieved such a deed? It was all Mrs. Gardiner's doing. She insisted on him wearing his flannel instead and only now did he realise he was not even wearing his old waistcoat.
He uttered an angry expletive which only he heard and turned to Mary sternly.
'Blast! I left the darned thing home! Now, I must return for it…' he muttered.
'Oh, how troublesome, uncle. But let me go, I shall walk promptly home and have it here in some minutes,' Mary offered kindly.
'Oh, heavens no! I would not hear of you walking alone through town like that when it's raining. No, I have my umbrella with me, I shall go and bring it myself, the walk home is not that long and I'll take a cab if necessary. No, you stay here in the hall, there are some chairs there, you can rest your feet and if Mr. Croswell comes, make sure you tell him of our misfortune, you will see, he will attend you like the gentleman he is.'
'What if you catch a cold? Let me be of assis…' she started
'There's no need, Mary, I would not have any peace to see you go like that in the rain with this cotton bonnet. You are not wearing wholesome clothes and it's not to be done. But I shall be back quickly. Well, I'm off then, not a minute to waste!'
With that, he took his umbrella and hat and went out in the rain, turning the corner and disappearing from the corner of her eye. She sighed frustrated and went to sit down, examining the shameful situation at hand.
However, her reflections were quite interrupted upon hearing some odd sounds coming from Mr. Prowler's office. She heard voices, worried ones, which debated something beyond her means of understanding.
Mary's ears were perceptive enough, she was certain she had heard the voice before, for she recognised James, but the other person remained in the shadow.
Curiosity got the better of her and she stepped closer to the door to listen. She propped her hands on the door hinges and tried hearing their speech. The rain was a great obstacle to this.
She grimaced at the extent of dust on the panels around and held her breath from having to smell it, but, unfortunately, that led to one predictable and almost tiresome consequence.
Her sneeze erupted in the hallway and in Mr. Prowler's office and James himself was instantly at the door, unlocking it and peering carefully outside.
Mary was surprised to see the door had been locked, but more surprised was James to find her there, at the door, eavesdropping like a common thief.
'Mary Bennet! What in Lord's name are you doing here?'
'I…I came with my uncle and…' she tried saying though her blush was most obvious, 'and he had to leave for a while to bring…a letter…'
'James, is there a problem?' asked a warm voice inside.
She frowned. She was certain now she knew the voice quite well.
'Who is it that you are seeing, Mr. Prowler?'
'I think you need to explain your sudden visit, first, Miss Bennet,' he said sternly.
'Miss Bennet? Mary Bennet?' inquired the voice inside again.
In a matter of seconds another head appeared next to James'.
'Theodore!' she exclaimed baffled.
And indeed, it was the mischievous thief who had a passion for her kind friend, it was the forlorn Theodore Stoddard.
James looked confused from one pair of eyes to another and was about to ask when Theodore interrupted him.
'Miss Bennet, it's so good to see you again, Georgiana has told me so much about you, she writes to me constantly and she always mentions her dear friend.'
'You two know each other?' the lawyer asked surprised.
'How could we not, if I love her friend dearly and she has saved me once?' Theodore replied naively.
To this, Mr. Prowler only raised an eyebrow significantly.
He quickly recovered, however and looked around carefully, then he took Mary's hand and rushed her in, locking the door after her.
'Well, come on, come quickly, let's not sit on the threshold, it's quite risky.'
As soon as Mary found herself in his study again she turned towards the two men, folding her hands.
'Mr. Prowler, what in Lord's name is Theodore, a well-known thief by craft, doing in your office and in your close company, I presume?' she asked sternly.
'You need not talk of me as if I am not here, Miss Bennet,' Theodore replied offended. 'Why should I not enlist the help of my friend, James?'
'Friend!' she exclaimed. 'Mr. Prowler, you are friends with one of London's most notorious thieves?'
'Now, calm down, Miss Bennet, this is not time for your sermons, you know nothing of this man and you know nothing of our connection,' James replied annoyed.
'You have my approval to explain, then, Sir.'
'Mr. Stoddard is here as a client and friend, indeed and no matter his profession, his conscience is clear and his heart is pure in these circumstances. When a man is wronged I do not care what he does for a living, I help him.'
'Well, what morals you have!' she exclaimed. 'I suppose he is in trouble with the law! But you promised Sir,' she said turning towards Theodore, 'you would stop this business of yours and become a decent man, you promised this to Georgiana, she told me.'
'And I have, Miss Bennet! I have!' Theodore cried abjectly. 'It was only a grave mistake…if you must be informed of what occurred, you will and maybe then you shall have a change of mind.'
'Theodore,' James said turning towards him, 'you want Miss Bennet to know your misfortune? Are you sure you should tell her? She is not close to you or a relative.'
'No, but she is the closest friend of my beloved, that is enough. I do not wish her to have such opinion of me, I wish to correct it as much as I can.'
Mary looked at both disconcerted.
'I wish to have this explained, friend or no friend of Georgiana's,' she replied vexed.
James sighed. 'Very well…'
He pulled a chair for her and sat down himself with Theodore.
'Sit, Miss Bennet, you shall hear the entire story.'
Mr. Stoddard wiped his sweating brow and smiled at her sadly as she seated herself.
'You see, Miss Bennet, misfortune is like a curse, it haunts me everywhere I go.
I did not lie to Georgiana, I did quit the business. Two months ago I was already out of the fellowship. My dear old friends, good partners I've done business with did not wish to look me in the eye anymore. I was a traitor in their eyes and a dangerous character. They feared I would bring them in front of the law for a reward in money. Idiots! But what could I do? I struggled on. My sister, poor thing, fell ill again. She has a terrible constitution, she was underfed as she was growing up, it was terrible for her. In any case, I was working hard to put away some money for her and I was constantly thinking years would pass until I could marry Georgiana properly. My liquor business did not go so well. Ever since I abandoned the fellowship of thieves, things have been going ruckus for me. I managed to make no profit, but I was surviving somehow.
I admit, I often thought that if I proved I was a wholesome man, perhaps the Darcys would not be so against our reunion. I know I have nothing to offer her but my love, but I thought that was enough and I even had the shameful thought that her family would have enough for the both of us, even for my sickly sister. Of course, I wish to work for myself and support my wife with all that I can, but a lady like Georgiana…living in our old tattered house…I could barely stand it.'
He took a deep breath before he continued his story, his face showing much sorrow.
'However, I was bent on succeeding, on somehow proving that I could take her for wife. I would not give up. My luck had it that my sister has many admirers. She is quite pretty indeed, but it's her manner that attracts men, not her looks. Her boldness and enthusiasm are contagious, I say! One of her acquaintances owned a tobacco shop in our proximity and was quite well off. My sister even hoped to marry him. But his attentions fell on me as well, he watched me at work, he inspected my business and he was quite pleased with my capacities and dexterity. I know how to read and write, have notions of algebra and economics. In short, I would be quite useful to him. He proposed a miracle. He wanted us to unite our businesses and become partners,' he said smiling.
It's getting quite popular these days…Mary thought amused.
'This was…this was a true stroke of luck for me. I was thrilled and accepted immediately. I would of course, be his clerk but we would have our own business and now, it would go about much better, I had many hopes and many plans of course. And I still hope and dare. My partner, Mr. Russel wanted to marry my beloved sister, Margaret.
And that is when the misfortune fell on us. Are you acquainted with a…gentleman called Paul Morel?'
Mary shook her head curiously. The story was getting more and more complicated and she was avidly following everything, trying to guess, as if she was reading a novel.
'Hm!' exclaimed James. 'Every man who does not know him is lucky, he is a vile vermin with no care or respect but for himself. A most disagreeable character and one with whom I am forced to interact.'
'And what is your connection with this Paul Morel?' she asked Theodore.
'It is not I…' he said bitterly. 'This accursed fate had it that he beheld my sister. He caught a glimpse of her at one of his ludicrous feasts, for he is a foul extravagant and a wretched womanizer. She was accompanied by Mr. Russel, and, though he had not even looked well at her, it was enough to observe her from afar, with or without partner. Her charms are quire mesmerising, but Paul Morel usually managed to have whatever he wanted. The next day we received his card and many bouquets of roses. She obviously refused him, she would not have him for the world, for she is excessively fond of Mr. Russel. But Morel would not have any of that. He quickly found out whose sister she was and…he made sure to let me know of his power.'
'What do you mean?' Mary inquired.
'Morel is one of the most influential men in London,' James replied instead. 'He practically rules the black market in town. His relations at court extend impressively since he is brother with the judge and has many men working for him. Such a dangerous fellow is not stupid, I tell you.'
'Consequently,' Theodore continued, 'he has enough power to throw me in jail for life. And he threatened to do just so, unless I offered him my sister for one night. That is all he asked, one night. My sister would not hear of it and I declined angrily. But he threatened not only to ruin me, but my good friend, Mr. Russel, as well. He said he would have my sister no matter what. Imagine my distress! I would not only lose my sister and my friends, I would lose my freedom and never be able to see Georgiana again, I would lose my business and be lost forever!'
He sank in his chair bitterly and remained silent for a while.
'I came to my dear friend James, with whom I've been acquainted for some time, to ask for his help, desperately. If anyone can untangle this, he is the man.'
After having heard all this, Mary admitted Theodore was not as wily and misleading as she had first made him out to be. He was a helpless creature now and he would accept any help. And she pitied him, for who would not? It was a tricky situation and she wondered at Mr. Prowler's pensive looks. Did he have a way to solve all this?
'How did you become acquainted with Mr. Prowler?' she asked.
'James was assisting a stock broker who was part of our fellowship and he introduced us. We remained friends ever since.'
'Even though…well, even considering your prospects, back then?'
'What I did was my own business, he said, he only liked to converse with me and drink wine together. He has been a great help to me.'
'But do not you fear this friendship will bring trouble?' asked Mary.
'If every friendship of mine brought trouble, I would have long been working in the mines as a collier,' James replied chuckling. 'I appreciate the man for his character and wit. Theodore impressed me for he stole out of stupidity and selflessness. Proof of this is his house, which has still remained a poor beggar's dwelling though he was never destitute.'
'I spent it all on my sister and my business which…never advanced so well. I must say with time, I came to enjoy it. It was a game you see. Sometimes, I even stole something that was challenging and returned it the next day.'
He smiled reminiscently. 'That is how I met Georgiana.'
Mary shook her head amused. She found a way to laugh about all this in her mind, but was fairly worried about Georgiana's suitor.
'Well…what can be done now?' she asked at length.
'We thought of having Margaret go after all and have him put to sleep when they are alone, but the predicament is that Margaret has once again fallen ill and is in no condition to leave the house,' said Mr. Prowler.
'Well! What a plan indeed! And wouldn't he discover he had been put to sleep?' she asked.
'We would have taken her out and brought her back in the early morning next to him, in bed, but that cannot be done now. And even this plan is risky. I can understand your shocked looks, but we could think of nothing better,' said Theodore looking down.
Mary was about to reply but just then a knock was heard at the door.
'Mr. Prowler? Are you in there, Sir?'
Mr. Gardiner's voice bid them all silent.
'I've come for some emergency on behalf of Mr. Toddler. Is Mary there? I left her here and…'
James instantly got up and pulled the drawers glued to the opposite wall away, revealing a crypt under the office. It was some sort of archive where he kept the most important files, but now he quickly pushed Theodore inside the small place and pulled the drawers back.
Mary watched this in utter terror and shock but didn't let out a word.
'Come here!' he whispered to her loudly as he pointed to a seat next to his desk. He placed a book in front of her and hurried to unlock the door.
'Mr. Gardiner, I am profusely apologetic, I only just heard you, you needed to speak louder,' he said letting him in.
'Well, that's quite right, Sir, but…' he stopped when he noticed Marry sitting at the desk, deeply enraptured in the book.
'Well, there you were, Mary dear!'
'Uncle!' she exclaimed as she gazed up. 'I…Mr. Prowler found me in the hall and…'
'And she told me all about your call,' he said smiling amiably. 'I was very pleased to have such a companion, for you know it was quite dull and so I proposed to show her some of my books. She is very keen on jurisprudence, I must say! She would be a perfect student.'
Mr. Gardiner's face brightened considerably.
'Oh, how lovely, Mary! I am proud to hear this, a woman of your character and mind need not worry about means of education. Why, Mr. Prowler, I am very much indebted to you for having piqued her interest.'
Mary could only look down humbly, though she was actually trying to stop her smile spreading on her face.
'I am the one indebted for such an enthusiastic student. She wants to learn all she can about my business, I am quite flattered,' he said smiling towards her.
'Are you really, Sir? Mary, I gather, has made a good opinion with you. But her qualities are not to be undermined for her simple lack of charms. Why, any respectable gentleman should feel very proud to have such a wife, I say,' he added beating the young lawyer on the shoulder.
'I can only agree he would be a fortunate gentleman. But the lady would do well to be knowledgeable in various circumstances. I would be most happy to teach her the little bit I know.'
Mr. Gardiner was invited to sit down, but he declined it politely. He was very much excited at hearing all this.
'Would you really? But I do not know if it is so proper, Sir…such an arrangement… I would be thoroughly pleased! But a young lady of almost twenty could not attend a single young man every day, you must know.'
'Oh, but whoever said every day? Why, you could accompany her, Sir and leave her in my care whilst you have your business done in town. Then you can come and collect her and you have my word she will be found as you left her and as you saw her now.'
At this Mr. Gardiner blinked confused.
'Mary, would you like that?'
'Oh, very much dear uncle, I find the subject challenging… and quite suitable for my intellect. I always had a deep concern for the law,' she said seriously.
Why did I say that? Where is this going?
'Did you really? I had no idea! But you should have told me earlier…'
'And you know,' she added, 'that books cannot make up for a teacher.'
'Exactly my thoughts. She would need a suitable tutor in this and I can offer my services if you wish it,' he told Mr. Gardiner serenely.
'But would not this encumber you from work, Sir?' asked her uncle.
'Not at all, I would only call her in the morning two hours at most, when there is no one really, it would be just right.'
'Well…you do not have many days left of your stay, Mary. I suppose you should take advantage of them in a way as to improve your mind. I trust Mr. Prowler to be an honourable man and I suppose two hours shan't be too much,' he said unsure.
'It would be enough for me, I assure you. I would be in no one's way and… we could have our walks just the same,' she said.
'Well! If you really wish it, so it should be! You have almost convinced me. Mrs. Gardiner will have some frets about it, though.'
To this Mary bowed her head ashamed.
'But I am sure when she hears who your tutor is, she will be very pleased, yes very pleased indeed,' he said wily, winking at her.
Mary did not understand all this trickery, but it was quite simple if one discovered the source of it all. Mr. Gardiner had misunderstood his wife's wishes of Mary becoming an object for Mr. Toddler. Instead, he was now quite sure she had meant Mr. Prowler, for who could be a better match? Yes, he thought the gentleman must be thinking of it too. Why then would he tutor her freely, risking two hours of his business for her sake?
He smiled pleased. His dear Lizzie had married so well and he knew he could do the same for Mary.
'How good then!' exclaimed Mr. Prowler. 'It is settled then, I shall expect her tomorrow morning. She will bring writing utensils and paper.'
'Yes, yes, Mary has brought all she needs with her. It will be done then. But let me insist that you come to our house as well. I am sure my library is an adequate place for such study.'
'Oh, it would be slightly bothersome, though it would give me much pleasure. But I do not suppose you have law books in your library. Otherwise, I would have to carry mine with me, which…would be quite a task,' he said pointing at the books around.
'Ah, I see! But well, you can always come and study there, I offer it anyway, Mrs. Gardiner will feel much at rest to have you there.'
'Uncle,' Mary began trying to change the subject, 'did you find the note?'
'Oh! Good Lord! I had almost forgotten,' he said taking out the letter. 'My actual task, Sir, was to deliver this to you. It's from Mr. Toddler, the poor man is stuck in bed and trusted only me with it, he said it was urgent.'
James nodded his head and took the papers from him, inspecting them quickly as Mary got up to go.
'Hm! All this could have been reduced to three sentences,' remarked James.
'Is it anything serious, Sir?'
'Nothing of the sort I cannot do,' he said smiling. 'I will call on Mr. Toddler some time this afternoon.'
'And very well you do, the man needs assistance. Oh, but if you go, we need not go anymore. You see, Mrs. Gardiner thought we should visit, but I believe Mary is quite tired. My wife gave me some oatcake for him. I left it with Mr. Croswell. Could you be so kind as to take it to him for us?' Mr. Gardiner asked.
'Nothing would please me more, you need not worry. Mr. Toddler will have sufficient company,' he said.
'Excellent! Well, we should be going then, we have imposed on your kindness for far too long. I thank you once more for the help you give my dear niece, I am sure she is very grateful.'
'Very much,' added Mary looking down.
Why in the world did I say such aberrations? Where is this all going to? What is he up to? Well, in any case, I bet we shall not be studying the law.
'She will owe you a great deal, so much so that you will have to accept our invitation to come by our humble abode from time to time, I believe Mrs. Gardiner would be thrilled, she adores having guests and you are quite a favourite,' he added smiling.
'I am sure, when I find time I shall come by for those excellent puddings. Well, then, am I to expect Miss Bennet tomorrow?'
'Well, Mary?' asked her uncle.
She sighed. One could wonder how she got into such ridiculous schemes.
'Yes, certainly, I shall be here with my uncle at eight sharp,' she replied.
'Wonderful, then,' said her uncle smiling, 'we've arranged it then. We'll be coming tomorrow.'
'I shall be expecting you,' he said kissing her hand and bowing at Mr. Gardiner. 'Goodbye!'
As soon as Mary and Mr. Gardiner left, Theodore was set free from the crammed space he had inhabited, but their conversation which continued for half an hour more was not available to my ears, therefore only Mary can cast some light upon the business tomorrow morning.
Mrs. Gardiner was decidedly not pleased with this arrangement. She was shocked and angry, but that was putting it lightly. She saw the entire affair as scandalous and an ample subject of gossip.
'A young girl and a man like him alone for two hours! Pshaw!'
'But my dear, you like Mr. Prowler, he is a most honourable fellow,' her husband protested.
'Oh, I do not doubt it! But it is quite inconvenient. Her reputation would be the subject of all gabbers. I would much prefer it if she went instead to visit poor Mr. Toddler who needs some company. The law! Why would a woman need that?'
'My dear, it would be the same if she spent two hours with the sickly gentleman than if she spent them occupying her mind. She would be in the company of men in both cases. But rather than dawdling about with Arthur, who is in no condition to be agreeable, she could improve her intellect and…well I was hoping, become a good friend of Mr. Prowler's.'
Her wife looked at him baffled.
'What are you thinking, Sir? Do not you remember what we heard? That Miss Durant from France has set her eyes on him and his mother is interested in this most agreeable match?'
'Pah! All rumours, my dear. They are not betrothed, not even properly acquainted! Besides, there is a long way to marriage and I think Mr. Prowler finds Mary superior to the knick-knacks of Miss Durant who is only proficient in dress.'
Mrs. Gardiner was not much persuaded in considering a lawyer a better match for her niece. Her heart was still set on the shy and cumbersome Arthur, but, in time, relented when she saw Mary had accepted it as well.
For the first time, she didn't feel angry at seeing her uncle manipulate his wife, though, if she had heard at least half of their conversation she would have had reasons to shrink with horror at the peculiar ideas her uncle had.
The mindless chatter of the two Gardiners continued until well into the night. The reader can already guess the bitter arguments and amusing notions both entertained. I would, however, like to make you aware of the fact that Mr. Gardiner had no sense of reputation. His wife knew more how this could damage a woman for life, but he did not pay heed to it. He was a man and his selfishness turned into selfless acts only when it brought him credit. In this situation, what he considered a favourable match could only be indebted to him. He already gloated over his success and thought with pleasure how the Bennets would thank him so and his sister would be so proud and happy. He considered himself even a better guardian of the girl than her own father and knew Mr. Bennet could never secure her a suitable husband.
Mrs. Gardiner thought differently. She, like her husband, wanted the credit for herself, but how could she achieve that if Mary was united with another man? They both did not even suspect their young niece had no plans of marrying either.
This strange battle between husband and wife was won this time by the uncle, only because men had a fortitude women sometimes lacked and he could please his wife just as well. He offered her the chance of trying to match Mary and Arthur at the birthday party in the honour of Sir Nordstrom. His wife foolishly accepted the challenge.
One can wonder if people did not have other occupations such as tending to their home, their business, their pleasures, their comfort, but these were the most scheming husband and wife in all London and nothing gave them more pleasure than this. Secretly, of course.
The next morning Mary was in agitated spirits. Her uncle took this as excitement and secret joy of meeting the gentleman again. However, Mary was having different thoughts. She was excessively curious about the affair and wondered whether Theodore would be there. She rushed through breakfast, commenting they would be late.
'Well! How anxious you are to go! Remember your place, propriety Mary,' Mrs. Gardiner added affected. 'I hope your uncle takes care of you well.'
'I certainly will, have no worry of that wife. I will leave her in the charge of not only Mr. Prowler but Mr. Croswell himself. And you know, with such people one cannot feel but safe.'
His wife sniffed upset, but replied nothing else. She advised Mary on her departure to take a shawl as not to have her neck too exposed.
Mary saw Mr. Gardiner's figure depart in the now clustered street. His figure was lost with the others and the only option she had now was to turn and face the already busy lawyer, who stood at his desk, as if waiting.
She had to admit, she was slightly frightened as well, she always was when she knew nothing of what followed. What intentions did the gentleman have after all?
'Alright,' she said as she faced him, 'what is this all about, Sir?'
'What can you possibly mean?'
'Why did you propose these morning meetings?' she inquired.
'Well, why did you accept?'
'I…I was…that's not important! I demand you tell me, for I do not suppose we shall actually study the law.'
'I am impressed, how did you ever draw such a conclusion?' he asked sarcastically.
She did not have time to reply, for someone knocked at the door and Theodore entered consequently.
'Ah, Miss Bennet, you are here! James told me you would be,' he smiled kissing her hand.
'What do you mean?'
'He considered my sister would perhaps feel better with some company. He was sure you would like to see her and could perhaps alleviate some of her pains. She is very lonely, I'm afraid.'
Why does everyone consider me a proper nurse? Quite a mystery…
'I…I guess I could come…'
'We should hurry, then, we only have two hours,' Mr. Prowler said putting on his coat.
She raised her eyebrow questioningly. All this had been done so she could see Theodore's sister? It was hard to believe but she was rushed out with the two that she didn't have much time to consider.
They took a cab, for their dwelling was in the lower parts of town and the streets were far too crowded for such a long walk.
All the way there Mary cursed her lack of fortitude to refuse this suspicious invitation. She would have rather turned back home, only she could not jump out of the vehicle or make it stop in any way.
Mr. Prowler noticed her worried looks and turned to her.
'You need not fear, Miss Bennet. It's simply a visit. I did tell you, you are not what one would call a tempting victim.'
Her anger rose up as she gave him a shocked look.
'Well! I did not suppose that!'
He smiled condescendingly and remained quiet leaving her to fume in her seat.
When they stepped out of the carriage, Mary found herself in front of what looked like an old public house. The house was of decent size but such decrepitude reigned over it that one could not peer through the windows and the front door looked ready to fall.
No matter, they went in cautiously and she discovered that inside it was slightly different. An impeccable order was found in every room and there were only four. The furniture was not scarce, but not enough for two dwellers, especially a sickly one.
The rooms were cold too as they had only one fireplace in his sister's room and the entire place smelled of some substance which she knew was used to kill rats.
However, it was welcoming enough for one young man who had just started working seriously and a sister more famed for her gentlemen friends.
Theodore rushed to his sister's room to see if she was awake which unfortunately she was not. She slept soundly more than twelve hours a day and would wake up an hour later.
'It's how she is, but she is charming, you shall see, she will be very happy to see you,' he said. 'Might I fetch you some tea?'
'Yes…that would be nice,' she replied looking around.
Mr. Prowler and she entered the small yet cosy living room where a couch and some armchairs were placed idly around. There were three coffee tables and many newspapers spread on them. On almost every newspaper lay some odd looking fan.
She noticed a small kitten was hiding behind one of the chairs, but seeing as it looked at her threateningly she did not encourage it to come out.
The room was strange, one could say, the wall paper was so yellow and old that no improvement could have fixed it, but it gave the room a feeling of ancient times.
However, the attraction of the room was not the wallpaper. It was quite a large portrait placed high on the wall, above where a fireplace should have been.
Mary was enchanted by it as she stood watching.
The lady in the portrait had black curls which fell on her back and shoulders. Some were pulled up and some she held with her hand. Her eyes were dark and warm as she smiled happily, looking somewhere in the horizon. She was dressed with a green dress with a generous opening, emphasised by the numerous curls. Her face was pale but attractive. Indeed, she was no great beauty, but something in her made you stop and stare, almost put you under a spell. The scenery behind her was that of a ball room which looked empty and forlorn.
She was puzzled.
'That is Margaret Stoddard,' James answered her unspoken question.
'Oh!' she exclaimed. 'How charming she looks, I see now why that Morel fellow was enchanted… Her complexion is good and her face has taste.'
James sat in one of the armchairs and peered at her amused.
'Yes, I dare say she is very pretty. Her brother is very proud of her. Though she looks so different, they are brothers, it is felt in all their ways.'
Just then, Theodore arrived with tea and some bread and jam, all placed on a small plate. He placed it on the table between himself and James and sat down himself.
'I see you are admiring my beautiful sister, Miss Bennet,' he said pleased.
'Why yes, I am, she is delightful, worthy of all compliments. I hope her character fits this pretty face well.'
'It does, I assure you, there never has been a gentler creature.'
Some minutes passed in silence in which Mary gazed longingly at the fair "creature".
At length Mr. Prowler put down his cup firmly.
'Miss Bennet,' he called.
She turned surprised. 'What is it, Sir?'
He smiled and simply stared at her. After a while he lowered his eyes.
'So I was right,' he muttered under his breath. 'Theodore, I want you to take a good look at Miss Bennet.'
His companion glanced at him questioningly, but James pointed towards her. Theodore complied and looked.
The trouble with Miss Bennet is that people do not take time to look at her. Her plain face goes unnoticed, but her fine, healthy features can be selected from the assembly that is her physiognomy and blunders can be overlooked, if one has patience.
She looked at them, curiously. She had taken her bonnet off in the hall and her hair was pulled slackly at the back of her head, yet many threads of hair were coming out on her shoulders. Her shawl had been removed, it was herself in the utmost candour of the moment. Her eyes had a strange glint in them that came from admiring Margaret.
Theodore stood still watching her. He finally noticed it too. There was no doubt about it. How is it that he had not remarked this before? With some improvement…he dared think…
'What is it?' she asked them. 'Why are you looking at me like that?'
She noticed they were staring at the portrait and back at her. She followed their looks.
'What…'
Then it dawned on her.
She looked back at Margaret and frowned furious.
'No. Absolutely not,' she retorted.
James and Theodore shared a smile as they got up.
'What are you doing? I said no.'
Theodore looked at her sadly with imploring eyes.
'No. You will not convince me. Not now, not ever!'
They both stood with their hands apart looking at her, pleading her with their eyes.
'Stop doing that! I said no. Ab-so-lu-te-ly not!'
'But Miss Bennet, only now do I notice…'
'That you are quite a look alike,' continued James.
'Ha! A look alike! I can't compare to her. I shan't do it. And there is nothing you can tell me that will make me accept!'
'I cannot believe I accepted this! Upon my word this is most scandalous!' she exclaimed after half an hour. Mary Bennet could be persuaded, it was a miracle. She sat with them in the living room, trembling still of what she was being asked.
'Miss Bennet, it is nothing of the sort you think. I have a plan that will…' started James.
'Oh! Another plan, is it?'
'If you let me finish…'
'How will we hide this from my aunt and uncle?'
'I will see to it all,' he said simply. 'All we need is your efficient cooperation. Four days from now, Paul Morel will be giving a Ball in honour of his brother's newborn child. Theodore will make sure to tell him he will be there with you to escort. Make no mistake you will have to follow him after the feast to his rooms, however…a good dose of laudanum will fix him for all the night. You shall slip it into his drink and we will take you out when the deed is done. Close to morning you will return to his rooms and lie down next to him in bed. You will have to persuade him you did spend the night together.'
She listened to all this with her mouth agape. Mary Bennet to do all this! Lydia was much more apt for such job.
'Do not be too frightened, it is not hard to persuade a man like him, especially after a dose of laudanum which should make him be in quite high spirits. We shall be waiting outside when everything is done.'
'Outside?' she asked.
'We will be there all the time if anything should occur, thus you are safe, have no fear. Once he drinks the drug there is no need for you to worry any longer.'
'But…but how do you suppose I can…I can do all you said!? It's…impossible! I am no flirt, I assure you of that and I have no…no skills for this…seducing men!'
'I know that very well,' he retorted, 'but you have four days to try your best. Margaret I am sure, even if confined to her room, can more than help you learn those…skills you mentioned.'
'They can't exactly be learned! I cannot compare to…'
'It is not as hard as you think. I wouldn't have asked you if I thought you couldn't do it. Besides…' he said, 'you are our only hope.'
She gave them an upset look as she fidgeted with the sleeves of her dress.
'Four days from now…it's the same day as Lord Nordstrom's birthday party.'
'So I've heard. And you must attend, of course. But you do not have to stay for the entire feast…' James said smiling.
'But they will surely notice I have disappeared!'
'Do not fret. There is someone of some influence in the Gardiners' household whom I can persuade to help us.'
'Still…these four days I must come here?'
'I believe you will now understand my reason for the study sessions…' he said amused.
'You…you planned all this ahead!' she exclaimed.
'Well, of course I did. I am not a lawyer for nothing.'
'Yes, you are worth your pay,' she spat sarcastically. 'But depend upon it, I will ruin all this scheme of yours. I have no talent for bewitching men, or anything similar to it.'
'Perhaps not, but you are kind and amiable, not bad looking at all, I would say, Miss Bennet. I believe you could be of great help. We have no one else, we would be most grateful, my family which is my sister and Georgiana! Georgiana would love you ten times better, for you will make it possible for us to reunite,' Theodore said.
She doubted she could do all that and stay out of trouble. In fact, she doubted the entire affair. How would she escape the guarding looks of the Gardiners? How would she be out an entire night just like that, without anyone noticing? How would she pretend to be a pretty young flirt that Margaret was? How could she possibly attract Paul Morel and convince him of her charms when she had none? The only fortunate thing was that Morel had not seen Margaret well enough to distinguish her physiognomy. She even hoped that upon seeing her, he would cancel all his plans with her.
Indeed, Mary Bennet knew she had accepted to save poor Theodore from prison, his sister from destitution and being sent to brothels and Georgiana from so much sorrow. However, she highly doubted she could pull it off, of all people. It was impossible for her to contrive such an image of herself and decided Mr. Prowler was mad and blind at the same time.
And she had only four days!
How in God's name do I get myself into these things?
'Well, I believe my sister might be awake,' Theodore spoke at length.
They all rose to go to her room and as Mary walked in front, James whispered something in Theodore's ear.
'We must discuss now how we shall deal with Mr. Darcy's dilemma as well.'