Darcy could well imagine the underlying history of the Viscount’s debts of honour and other proofs of his dissipation, but he had no idea that such knowledge would help the ladies to comprehend the event more clearly. He looked impenetrably grave for several minutes, and Elizabeth and Georgiana knew enough of his character to understand that he was in earnest contemplation of the best plan for their return to England, and what, if anything, could be done, before he could himself arrive, to be of service to the Hallendales. Darcy replied in the affirmative, and said only,

“As your Uncle Gardiner is already involved in the business, we may take some comfort in the knowledge that whatever is possible is already being done in the way of securing the assistance of those most able to discover the truth surrounding this heinous crime, and how best to effect redress. You must know that there can be little hope of remediation for such an act that would render it less painful, or even more acceptable. We are best to prepare ourselves for the worst and return to London in the safest, most expeditious manner possible.”

“I think it advisable that we remain together through the return to Geneva. The passage over the mountains is certainly improved over what it was, but it is no journey for two women to undertake in the care of servants. You may remain in Geneva for some days until you are rested, and then recommence your journey back through Paris. I will leave you at Geneva and return to London on horse-back, if you are able to travel further by yourselves.”

Georgiana and Elizabeth were quick to assure Mr. Darcy of their ready approbation, and to declare themselves quite able to see themselves, their servants, and their belongings back to England. Hastily dividing the business to be done, all was soon settled for their imminent return. As Mr. Darcy left to see to the carriages, find his coachman, and issue instructions for their departure, the women turned to supervising the hurried packing, and making all ready to be put into the trunks, which would soon arrive for lading. Georgiana took the opportunity of her maid’s being gone to see about the baggage, and asked Elizabeth quietly,

“Elizabeth, I cannot but wonder about this turn of events. It seems that my brother is concealing something from us, but what could be worse than what we know already? And, what can Colonel Fitzwilliam mean about its being ‘scandalous?’ Does not murder necessarily involve scandal to the greatest extent possible?”