North by Northanger (A Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mystery) Read Online Free PDF

that news of a child would repair a relationship my aunt herself chose to break? She appeared horrified by the very idea.”
    “Yes, you have chosen an unworthy vessel to bear your offspring. Our progeny will undoubtedly suffer from their inferior maternal ancestry.” Elizabeth held his arm more tightly as they negotiated an uneven stretch of pavement. “However, Jane and my dear friend Charlotte Collins both tell me that the moment the world learns that a woman is in the family way, she becomes a lodestone for unsolicited counsel from all quarters on every possible matter related to her condition. Knowing Lady Catherine’s propensity for instruction, I suspected she would prove unable to resist the opportunity to educate me in everything I have been doing wrong thus far, and to issue endless orders regarding my conduct and habits for the remainder of my wait.”
    “Perhaps you should take notes during your visit tomorrow. You would not wish to forget a valuable piece of advice.”
    “Should she offer one, I shall rely upon you to remind me of it. You do intend to accompany me?”
    “Much as I long to enjoy Lady Catherine’s hospitality, I believe she tendered her invitation solely to you. Besides, I would be completely in your way. My aunt seemed to have matters of a most particular nature to discuss with you, and the presence of a gentleman among the party might hinder even her outspokenness.”
    “That is precisely why I wish you to come.”
    “Did you not just say that you effectively solicited her ladyship’s attention?”
    “That does not mean I look forward to subjecting myself to it.”
    “So now I am to rescue you?” He assisted her up the steps as they reached their lodgings.
    “I would do as much for you.”
    “Endure my aunt’s condescension to spare my suffering? That is love, indeed. But I am afraid you are on your own for this conversation.”
    She looked at him coquettishly—a device so foreign to his straightforward Elizabeth that he nearly laughed to see it.
    “Have you no compassion for the mother of your son?”
    At that, he did laugh. ” Now the child is a boy?”
    He shook his head and led her into the house. “A noble attempt, Mrs. Darcy, but I am unmoved. Lady Catherine’s summons was your own doing. As I intend to teach our young Henry or John, if you create a plight, you must see it through yourself.”
    “That is an important lesson for our child to learn.” She stopped at the hall mirror to remove her bonnet, catching his gaze in the glass. “Little Henrietta or Johanna will thank you for it.”
    Shortly after they settled themselves in the sitting room, a note arrived. The servant informed them that its messenger waited for a response.
    Darcy glanced at the direction. “I do not recognize the hand.” He broke the seal, skimmed its content, then read aloud:
Edgar’s Buildings
Bath, 6 October
Dear Mr. Darcy ,
My discovery of your name in the Pump Room book prompts me to write. Though we are strangers to each other, I believe our families are acquainted. My late mother, Mrs. Victor Tilney, enjoyed the friendship of one Lady Anne Darcy, whom I believe to be your mother .
Though I understand Lady Anne has also passed away, I would take great pleasure in meeting her son. Unfortunately, my military duties obligate me to depart Bath this very day. However, I plan to return to my country home in Gloucestershire by 18 October, and shall remain there for some time. I would consider myself honored to receive you and Mrs. Darcy at Northanger Abbey as my guests for a se’nnight whenever you make your return journey to Derbyshire .
I hope your response names the date upon which I will enjoy the pleasure of your company. I am—
    Yours most sincerely ,
    Captain Frederick Tilney
    “An intriguing invitation,” Elizabeth said when he finished reading. “Do you recall Mrs. Tilney?”
    “I do not believe I ever met her,” Darcy said.
    “Are you inclined to accept?”
    He thought a