Darcy replied, “As long as it is not Elizabeth, please consider it as yours or as done, as you decide.”

“No, no—it is not my niece that is here concerned,” said Mr. Gardiner with a smile and a shake of his head. Recollecting the seriousness of the subject, he continued, “This concerns the new Viscount. Assuming you entirely consent to the Bakewell-Adams exchange, I think it wise that George travel into Derbyshire to meet with Adams and Bakewell without delay. This arrangement will give him a chance to feel absolutely in-charge, to properly know the extent of his own responsibilities, and, moreover, feel that the plan is by his own design. Above all of this, I believe it imperative that we give him a change of scene for a week or so—he is looking remarkably ill—which puts an additional burthen on Lady Hallendale, out of concern for both father and son. To my way of thinking, his absence for a few days will produce an effect of a generally salutary nature.”

“As you wish, Gardiner. I again express my gratitude for the concern and care you have always taken for my family, and, again, I thank you. Now, may I return to what is left of my own establishment?” he said, still retaining his light-hearted tone as he moved toward the door, bowing to Lady Hallendale.

“Fitzwilliam,” said Her Ladyship quietly, “I am very obliged and very grateful. I regret that it is impossible, under the present circumstances, to acquaint His Lordship with the particulars of your kindness and generosity. There is one favour I would ask of you.”

“Yes, Aunt, whatever I can do is both my duty and my pleasure.”

“Both Mr. Gardiner and I feel that you are the best person to speak with George—the Viscount. He respects you not only as he always has—as a brother—but also as a land-owner—as an improver. We all know it to be impossible that His Lordship undertake such a task, and I believe that George would much prefer to take direction from you on this subject, than myself or Mr. Gardiner. I do not scruple to trespass even more on your kindness as, in addition, if you were to offer him the benefit of your very capable assistance, it would add—I am sure—greatly to the confidence which is needed to undertake these many new responsibilities so immediately. Even more importantly, Fitzwilliam, I think that you—if anyone—can convince him to leave his father for a few days—tell him that, now you are come, he is needed in Derbyshire. Dear Georgiana will be here before many days and can assist me. Will you undertake this errand, or do I ask too much?”