Page 194 of These Dreams
Elizabeth rose unsteadily on her side of the massive desk. “Do you honestly think it possible? I have wondered, but not dared to believe it.”
“It is likely enough. A colonel is generally a man with connections, and a prize on the battlefield if he can be captured alive. We are doing all we can, and I intend to speak with the earl this very afternoon. Meanwhile, you may be interested in this.” He indicated a side table, where a map was laid out with an assortment of flagged pins pushed into different locations.
“TheDaily Mailkeeps us well informed of troop movements. One of the marvels of this modern age of ours. See here—Richard said in his last letter that he was ordered to Johannesburg and then to Pretoria. They are both in British hands now, so we are sure to hear more very soon.”
Elizabeth surveyed the map, with its patriotic markers and unfamiliar names, and was struck by how cold and impersonal it all seemed. Richard must have seen it for a far different thing.
“I will see you have a map of your own,” Mr Darcy continued. “If you will please excuse me, I am afraid I have much business to attend. However, I have made arrangements for you and your party to journey to my country estate in Derbyshire tomorrow. I believe you will be more… comfortable… there.”
She swallowed. Yes, she certainly would be. “Thank you, sir.”
