PP AU NON-CANON GENERAL REGENCY

Family Ties

Previously:

"There is no question with Catherine's expertly forged copy of the map, my idea would work." James grinned at Thomas and added. "We really should be grateful your daughter is on the right side of the law."

"So..." Thomas ignored his son's remark. "What is your idea?"

"It is like this."

Treachery Unveiled

Ch. 23

Lord Harris had been contacted and, without difficulty, made his way to Sir William Lucas's home. He might have visited Netherfield, but he had no desire to draw attention to the fact that any relation to the Prince Regent was aware of the true proceedings. However, Peter was not oblivious to the wagging of his wife's mother's tongue. Thus, he had taken advantage of that fact and paid a visit. Not only had he come, but he had ensured it would be an impromptu gathering. Sir William, well-meaning as he was, remained unaware of the true purpose. Peter knew the poor man had been deceived by some of the fabricated 'truths' Radcliffe was spreading. Therefore, this visit would serve as a good, yet safe, means to demonstrate the necessity of discretion in belief.

"What a welcome surprise," Sir William exclaimed as he opened the door to find Lord Harris and a companion standing at his doorstep. "Peter, Charlotte will be delighted to see you; she arrived last night." Sir William smiled warmly. "The more, the merrier." He led them into a parlor bathed in natural light, with the heavy, multi-colored curtains drawn back. Comfortable, cream-colored sofas and chairs were arranged to invite easy conversation and foster a sense of coziness. As his son-in-law settled into the plush seating, the Lucas family remained blissfully unaware of the true motives behind the gathering, believing it to be a purely social visit. Lord Harris and his companion exchanged discreet glances, ready to navigate the delicate dance of social interaction.

"What have you all been up to? We thought you were in London, Peter," Lady Lucas inquired with evident curiosity. Peter imagined her with the eager movements of a beaver, ready to rub her hands together. His friend had similar thoughts, envisioning her with beaver teeth. However, neither man revealed their amusement, maintaining an air of composure.

"I, for one, was visiting friends in the area. I had just left Mr. Bennet's residence," Peter's friend replied with a smile. "I happened to encounter Lord Harris on his way here, and he suggested we come before visiting the Hurst's place."

"Why bother with the Hursts? Neither of you is related, and they are not of the upper class."

"Louisa!" William scolded. "Since when did you become a classist?"

"Well, I just..." Lady Lucas squirmed. She had not realized until now that she possessed any classist tendencies, and it embarrassed her. "I am sorry." Her face turned bright red. "That was inappropriate."

"It was, but I shall overlook it." Lord Harris, despite being married to her daughter, would have glared at Charlotte's mother. However, he merely offered a slight smile. "We all make mistakes at times." His smile widened. "I am going to Mr. Hurst's for a few days to examine some items he acquired from Mr. Bennet. Mr. Hurst mentioned keeping them in his private study and is willing to show them to me. They are said to be quite rare, brought from the borders of Scotland. This is why I cannot stay long. If one of them is indeed the antique compass shaped like a book that I have been seeking, I would pay a hundred and fifty pounds for it."

"A hundred and fifty pounds?!" Lady Lucas gasped. "That is an exorbitant sum for a paperweight."

"Yes, it is, which is why I would not send just anyone to purchase it for me." Lord Harris emphasized that only someone truly desiring the item would go personally. "Anyone else would be a fool to send a servant."

The group conversed a little longer, but on different subjects, as Lord Harris wished to avoid overemphasis. He then apologized to Charlotte. "I am sorry, my dear, but we must spend time together later. This matter cannot wait, and I have business to attend to afterwards that cannot be postponed."

"Of course."

The two gentlemen rose and took their leave. It was only when they were in the coach heading towards Meryton that they spoke of anything consequential.

"How soon do you think Lady Lucas will inform Mr. Radcliffe? An hour? Two?"

"I would say now," urged Lord Harris, tilting his head and shaking it solemnly. "She is taking that side path to a house where I am certain he resides. This implies that Mr. Radcliffe will not be far behind, and since the woman is now out of sight..." He leaned out the window. "Turn this carriage towards Netherfield with all possible speed!"

The coach's wheels rattled along the winding road, clattering against the cobblestones as they made their way towards Netherfield. The landscape was alive with the vibrancy of spring, as colorful blossoms adorned the branches of trees and the fields stretched out in a patchwork of green hues. The sweet scent of wildflowers filled the air, mingled with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil.

"Do you think they will be prepared for us?" Peter's friend inquired. "James is not as active in law as he once was."

"Trust me, he has not lost his touch and is more involved than you might think."

Birds flew about as the men continued their conversation. The songs of the feathered creatures created a harmonious symphony that accompanied the rhythm of the carriage wheels, even at their fast pace. The sun shone brightly overhead, casting dappled shadows on the path ahead, while a gentle breeze rustled the leaves and carried with it a promise of warmth and renewal, despite Lord Harris's own aura of urgency.

As they neared Netherfield, the beauty of the estate came into view. The imposing manor house stood proudly amidst meticulously manicured gardens, the stately architecture proclaiming wealth despite James never presenting himself as someone of substantial means. The coach slowed as they approached the entrance, the driver expertly guiding the horses to a halt.

James Hurst emerged from the house, his expression one of readiness. "Hide the coach behind the stables," he instructed the driver. "We must ensure it remains out of sight from anyone approaching my home."

As the driver complied, James turned to his wife, addressing her with a gentle but firm tone. "Catherine, ensure that all the female servants are sent home or to friends immediately. There is no need to risk their safety. Inform them there will be no loss of pay."

Catherine nodded, her face a mask of determination matching her husband's as she set about her task. The gentlemen, now hidden from view, exchanged glances of mutual understanding. The stage was set, and the next move belonged to them.

"Are you sure Mr. Radcliffe will take the bait?" James inquired as the men went inside and discussed their seclusion and coordination with other lawmen.

Lord Harris's friend, instead of simply answering, made a statement that, while seemingly innocent, caused them to pause. "I have no idea, but funny how a small item can cause such... tension, would you not say?" The undertone and slight pause in his words prompted both Peter and James to draw their guns in an instant.

"What is going on?"

"Hand over your weapon." James's mouth set in a grim line. "And I am not jesting."

"I have not done anything wrong. I was not making any wrong move."

"How much is Radcliffe paying you?" Lord Harris asked, sick to his stomach. "I am serious, Bradley. How much did he offer to get you to go against me?"

"I do not know what you are talking about."

"I am not head of security for nothing; I know a veiled threat when I hear one. And I know when a man plans on using a weapon to get what he wants." Lord Harris forced Bradley to turn around, a few more words and a few choice words from James compelling the gentleman to break.

"Do you really think you can get Mr. Radcliffe to come?" snapped Bradley.

"I have no idea, but it is certain he will not step forward to save your skin for attempting to rob the head of security."

"You do not live here!"

"No, but I own what you were trying to steal." It was not a lie; Georgiana had sold it to him on the condition it would automatically be gifted back to the Bennets as soon as Radcliffe was arrested.

Lord Harris had Bradley hauled off and turned to James. "I will ensure word is spread to places where Mr. Radcliffe is known to frequent. I am hoping all the failed attempts his men have had will push him into coming."