First, Richard walked into Bingley's study. Thinking to himself as he surveyed the room he knew both Darcy and Bingley seemed to be deep in thought. Darcy must be feeling guilty for the accident he caused. No, if Richard were honest with himself, they both had caused it. How in the world could a skilled hunter like Darcy be so careless? They should never have followed the girls that night. How stupid that had been. Being gentlemen of good sense, how could they be so …
Then, Richard shook his head. What good would it be to keep concentrating on the accident when it was not going to change things. What everyone needs to think about now is what to do next? How will they work to get on with life? What exactly can we control at this moment? What happens in the immediate future? —- A year from now? Two years from now? Ten years from now? Richard shook his head. He was having a hard time trying to figure out what they would now two hours from now.
Bingley broke through Richard's thoughts. "Richard, would you like something to drink?"
"Coffee, please." Richard wondered what Mary was doing. Had she had breakfast? Was she able to eat or drink? Was she awake? Would she wake up? She had to wake up. How else would they begin a life together?
Bingley, again, broke into his thoughts. Here is your coffee just the way you like it.
"Darcy, that must be the ninth letter you have written in the last hour. Richard did the same thing last night. He seemed to be sending every special post rider in Meriden out to some place or another. Now, what are you doing? " ask a flustered Mr. Bingley.
"Leave him alone, Bingley. He has much on his mind. You know it helps him settle down when he can concentrate on business. I assume the letters pertain to business. We informed our family last night of our senseless actions. Darcy just needs something else to occupy his mind for a while. Later, when he cannot see to write, his mind will have to deal with the situation we have created." Richard glared at Darcy.
"Thank you, Richard, for saying 'we created' when it was no one's fault except my own. If I had listened to you, neither lady would be lying in sick beds. I could not sleep last night, when I closed my eyes I could see Miss Elizabeth's ankle turned like that. I awoke and was sick to my stomach when I pictured Miss Mary's arm with the bone…"
"Darcy, I know you regret what happened, but you will not help either lady by torturing yourself. Living through it once was enough. Do not keep experiencing it by letting your mind return to the scene over and over. You will, of course, do that. Just try to refocus when you can." Richard sipped his coffee, then continued his conversation.
"I find that when I see those types of images in my mind over and over again, I try to avert my eyes, if I can. I imagine something pleasant. Something that makes me smile or will change my mood. Think about the sunrise over Pemberley, or the feeling of a good ride on Thunder, or Georgiana's smile. That may help you to a degree, but it will not alter reality. If you keep focused on those terrible images, you will only injure your mind. I have dealt with many such scenes. It does get easier with time along with forgiving yourself.
And, you will need to do that in order to take good care of Miss Elizabeth. She has to be your main focus from here on." Richard had moved to the desk to lay his hand on Darcy's back. Later, we can work some more on your hunting skills. I still can not believe you failed all your training. How many times have we been hunting? " Seeing the grimace on Darcy's face. Yes, Darcy was in much pain. Apologizing for his words, Richard blew out a breath, "Sorry, my friend. I feel just as bad about what has occurred."
Both men dropped their heads. Richard shook and moved back to the table in the room.
Darcy groaned asking, "What about Miss Mary? How do I make it up to her? Richard, I hurt her badly." Darcy said with fear and tears in his eyes.
"Cousin, you can only take care of one sister. You will make Miss Elizabeth your wife so you can make sure she is cared for now and for the rest of her days. I am determined to take the responsibility for Miss Mary.
It will be my honor and privilege to make her my Mary, my wife. I ask you, "Will you leave this to me?" Richard looked back at Darcy. Though he asked the question, his look was of a different nature. Darcy knew this was not a request so he merely shook his head in the affirmative.
Darcy spoke with caution. "I mean no disrespect, Richard. I just want to ask, can you take care of Miss Mary. For instance, do you need me to give her a dowry — as my sister? Or, will you need me to give a wedding gift? I am willing to do whatever I can to help you and Miss Mary." said Darcy.
"I can help, too, Richard. You both know how I feel about Miss Jane. I have not kept it a secret. Will you allow me to help?" This question was from a concerned Mr. Bingley. He was not unaffected by the tension in the room.
"I thank you both for both of your offers, but I am quite capable of taking care of Miss Mary, every way. I will not go into detail, but financially she will want for nothing. You do what you feel best concerning her dowry. Darcy you might offer both women some financial recompense. I certainly intend to offer a sum to both. It most likely will be in accordance with their father's wishes. They are most certainly entitled to something.
My greatest concern or rather where I will need as much assistance as possible, will be getting her agreement to marriage. Something in her eyes tells me the lady may not agree to take this old soldier. If you are willing to help me with my pursuit, I would unquestioningly appreciate it. I have already sent for other reinforcements. My parents, my brother, and even Aunt Catherine will arrive soon. Darcy I would appreciate it if you sent for Georgianna. It is going to take all of us working together to save our ladies' reputations as well as our own. Mr. Bingley having agreed to host my troops, what is battle is so we just need to finalize our strategic plan."
"Why do you think Miss Mary will not want to marry you, Richard? Many ladies of the ton have expressed interest in you. You have the right family background and connections." Bingley was confused.
"There are several reasons. First, we did not get off to a good start. I mistakenly thought she was a maid. Even though I apologized, she was not satisfied. Second, she is well liked in this town. The more I learn of her, the more I know she does not do anything she does not want to do. She has a mind of her own. Third, I am one of the principal people who were following her at night causing her to break her arm. When I picked her up and took her home she was hopelessly compromised. That took away her right to choose her husband. So, I intend to make sure she chooses me in her heart. I, also, want her to choose me because... Well anyway, I have sent for my small army. Between my family and myself, perhaps she can be persuaded."
Richard had thought but had not said he wanted her to choose him because he had chosen her. He did not want a marriage of unequal affection. He was without a doubt in love with Miss Mary. Now, his task was to make sure she would fall in love with him.
"I believe I comprehend." said Bingley. "Do you have any suggestions for me to get Miss Bennet to say yes to my proposal? I do not want to compete with your brother when he gets here for her affection, but I know it could happen."
"Are you serious? She will be more than happy to have you, Bingley." remarked Darcy. He was trying to sound encouraging.
"Bingley, I do have a few suggestions, if you are serious," replied Richard.
"Please, for I am most serious," said Mr. Bingley.
"First, do not take for granted Miss Bennet is interested in you. Show true sincerity to Miss Bennet. Next, she needs to know that you, as rich and handsome as you are, are not trifling with her affections.
Keep in mind, as my future sister, I would be most displeased if you toyed with Miss Jane. I dare say even if she thought you were toying with her affections. I, also, (here he paused and looked at both Darcy and Bingley) would not be tolerant of any of your family who did not completely show kindness and graciousness to my sister. In other words, talk with your family to make sure they know you will not tolerate any disrespect to Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth, or most importantly to me — Miss Mary. " Richard gave both men a "I am for real" look before leaving the room.
"Oh, and Darcy. Instead of concentrating on the guilt you are feeling. Think about this – How are you going to get Miss Elizabeth you like you – one of the men directly responsible for the pain and suffering of both her beloved sister and herself?
If Darcy looked pained before, now he looked doubly so. Richard did not feel guilty for causing his cousin discomfort because he had come to the conclusion that Darcy's success with Miss Elizabeth could have a great effect on his success with Miss Mary accepting him. He was leaving nothing to chance. Darcy must win his lady's affections. Richard could tell Darcy well on his way to loving Miss Elizabeth, and he did not want his cousin in a marriage of unequal affections, either.
As he excused himself for a morning ride, Richard had a small smile. Would not Miss Mary be happy to find out her sister accepted Mr. William Darcy out of love and not just because she was compromised. How would Miss Mary feel, knowing he had played a part in the happy circumstance. What else could he do to make Miss Mary look upon himself with favor. He had much to think about as he rode through the fields.