Beginning ,Previous Section , Section VI

Jump to new as of July 25, 2004

Chapter 19 ~ continued

Some two hundred guests had been invited to the ball and the musicians, who remembered the great joy that their efforts had produced several days earlier, were eager to begin. They struck up the first chords of a waltz as couples flocked to the dance floor in happy anticipation. Horatio was aching to hold Georgiana in his arms, but his superior understanding led him to bow deeply before the Queen and request her hand for the first dance. He was happy to see King Fredrik approach Georgiana with the same request.

A genuinely happy smile graced Georgiana’s face as she accepted and stepped gracefully forward to take the King’s hand.

“Ah, Miss Darcy, if I were but twenty years younger I believe I would have tried to convince you to stay in Denmark myself. Will you ever forgive us for admiring you so much? Christian is truly a good man at heart, though very used to having his way; but I believe you have taught him a valuable lesson, my dear. But if you cannot yet forgive him, will you, at least, have pity on an old sovereign who did not have the good sense to subdue him?”

“I blame no one for what happened,” said Georgiana diplomatically. “I believe a series of misunderstandings, coupled with my naiveté and Christian’s understandably… entitled nature,” here she paused to lower her eyes and suppress a giggle at her own impertinence, “ created this unfortunate affair. I hope you do not think me ungrateful or, heaven forbid, unappreciative of the honor bestowed on me by your family.”

“Oh, my dear girl,” he said, as he skillfully whirled her about, “ you would have been a great asset to our court, but I am well aware that you meant no offense.”

King Fredrik was an excellent dancer and Georgiana glowed with happiness as he spun her about the room. Having overcome her anxiety, she was able to enjoy herself, even in the arms of the King. After several more turns about the dance floor, their path crossed that of Horatio and Queen Beatrice and King Frederick slowed his steps and graciously gave her hand to him. “I believe this young lady would much prefer to dance with you, Mr. Hornblower; I take it you have no objections?” And without waiting for a reply from the stunned young man, he grabbed his wife about the waist and continued the waltz without missing a beat.

Aware that all eyes were upon them, the young lovers became rather shy, as they tentatively joined hands, and blushing, attempted to enter the dance on the proper beat. But the music soon swept them away, and their unburdened breasts heaved happy sighs as they allowed themselves the pleasure of being seen and accepted as a couple for the very first time. They had nothing to hide – from anyone. How wonderful it felt and how powerfully it united them!

They danced together for most of the evening, being keenly aware that it would be a very long time before they were able to hold one another like this in public again. And as they whirled, they made a silent pact to introduce the waltz to their close friends at Pemberley; and certainly, to have it be their first dance as husband and wife at their wedding celebration!

The Regalia had been loaded with all their belongings, exceptionally fine provisions (courtesy of King Fredrik), their own gifts for family and friends and those from the Royal Family of Denmark to the Royal Family of England. They had waited till the last moment to take the horses on board and as they trotted up the pier, Horatio was moved to see that Lord Nelson had been added to their number. The willful beast greeted his master with an affectionate whinny and then proceeded to give his handlers a difficult time as they struggled to get him into the hold.

With everything at the ready, they again expressed their appreciation to King Fredrik and Queen Beatrice, and invited them to Pemberley on their next visit to England. It had been such an eventful trip, so painful and yet so wonderful, and Horatio and Georgiana knew that these first experiences as a couple would have a significant and lasting effect on their lives.

Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam were ready to go home! Neither of them had admitted to the excruciating longing they had felt for the children, not wishing to dampen the happiness of the other, but now their long suppressed emotions rose to the surface as the Regalia left its moorings and slowly headed out of the harbor.

“I’m so happy to be going home, Fitzwilliam,” said Elizabeth, tears streaming down her cheeks. “I would give anything to have Edward’s sticky little fingers on my face just now.”

Fitzwilliam pressed her gently to his chest and said nothing. But Elizabeth knew him well enough to know that had he tried to speak, he would have lost all control of his emotions.

Although they were anxious to be home, the journey back to England proved far too short. The weather was perfect, the sea calm and everyone on board felt wonderfully at ease and content. They strolled on deck, ate many of their meals al fresco, and spent hours making up for their hectic schedule with King Fredrik by doing absolutely nothing!

Georgiana and Horatio spent as much time together as possible. They talked and dreamed and found the greatest pleasure in simply standing at the rail, looking out at the swells, their fingers entwined.

It was on one of these occasions that Horatio decided to finally ask Georgiana about Torrington. “Why did you not tell me of that horrid man’s abuse of you, Georgie? I could have helped ease your mind and gone to see him, just as your brother did.”

“That is precisely what I was trying to avoid, Horatio. I knew you’d be furious and I didn’t want you to do anything that we would both regret later on. I was afraid for my family’s reputation and for your professional ruin and physical safety. My mind raced from one possible calamity to another. Perhaps it was foolish, but it all seemed so plausible to me at the time.”

“Georgiana Darcy, you have gone from being the protected one to believing that you must protect everyone you love single-handedly. Neither is the case. Promise me that you shall allow me to share in all your burdens, large and small. Is that not what you asked of me, not so long ago?”

She nodded and gave him half a smile before turning more serious again and asking, “Horatio, tell me truly. Do you believe that men and women are equal?”

“No, not at all,” chuckled Horatio. “You women are far superior creatures. We are savages compared to you.”

“Oh, do be serious, Horatio,” she said, her impatience causing her brow to furrow. “Should not women have the same responsibilities when it comes to duty to Crown and Country? If you were asked to perform a service for England, you would consider it your duty to do so and never even contemplate refusal. Why is it not the same for a woman – the same for me?” She lowered her eyes and he was shocked to see that she still harbored feelings of guilt and self-recrimination.

“Georgiana,” he said softly, bringing her fingers to his lips, “this situation was entirely different. First, let me assure you that there have been times, desperate times, that women have been pressed to take all sorts of risks to help their country. But that was always in times of war, with hundreds of lives at stake and no other alternative. And when men sign up to serve, they go into harms way with the hope that they shall return unscathed. Even when the odds are not in their favor, each man goes into battle believing that by some miracle, he shall return home to England to live in peace in the bosom of his family. Although many do die in battle or return home maimed, they go in with a fighting chance to come home victorious. What Torrington was asking of you was to sacrifice your happiness and freedom for the rest of your life – with certainty. We do not ask that of our men; we surely should not ask it of our women. You have nothing to regret in your decision.”

Georgiana’s eyes showed the relief she felt at hearing these words. Horatio always knew just what to say to make her feel better. She would trust that despite his bias, his words were true and that she owed it to him and to her family to let these feelings go.

“I know that you are right, Horatio, and I shall try to cast these feelings from my heart,” she said, looking completely unconvinced that she would be able to do so any time soon.

“Well then, let us toss them into the sea and be rid of them forever,” said Horatio, taking out his handkerchief. “Close your eyes for a moment and gather all your unwanted feelings into a bundle. Then place them in this handkerchief and help me tie it up securely.”

She started to giggle, but he reprimanded her for not taking this ritual of exorcism seriously, and she managed a far more somber countenance as they tied all four corners and threw the bundle into the deep.

“There, it is done. You are free of them…. and perhaps, free to accept me with an unburdened heart. Georgiana Darcy,” he said softly, “you are all I want and need in this world. I love you with all my being and beg you to accept me. I shall cherish you, work hard for you and strive each day to make you happy.” He looked to her anxiously, for she stood gaping at him, her eyes wide and moist.

“I thought you wanted to wait – to wait for a commission?” she managed to murmur, searching his face in disbelief.

“I cannot wait! I cannot wait a moment longer to hear you say it!” And as a smile washed across her face and she began to form the words, he pulled her into his embrace and kissed her passionately, forgetting the men that were employed in the rigging above them. For now they hooted and hollered and shouted their approval of the lady and the match, forcing the young lovers to separate in embarrassment and return below deck. When they met up again, in their secret hiding place between decks, they reveled in the luxury of long intimate kisses, their bodies unable to press close enough to satisfy their longing. When they finally parted in utter exhaustion and Georgiana got to give her verbal answer. They laughed at themselves and kissed once more, for they could not get enough of each other.

“Georgie, if you wish me to, I shall go to your brother immediately, but if you can wait a few more days to announce it, I shall come to Pemberley and speak to him there,” whispered Horatio, as his lips moved from her neck to her ear.

“I’m afraid the rumor may already be spreading, Horatio. I told Torrington that you were my betrothed,” she giggled. “I had to tell him something to leave me be! But I doubt whether he shall have the opportunity to speak of it to anyone in England in the next few days; I can wait, Horatio. Come to Pemberley.”

The young midshipman on watch in the crow’s nest was the first to spot her as her sails pulled her towards the harbor. He shouted out her arrival to his mate below, who immediately informed his superior officer that he would only be on shore for a half an hour or so, and raced down the plank towards the Red Lion Inn. He had been paid to keep an eye out for her arrival and promised double that amount if he informed them of it before she docked. He ran as fast as his sea legs would carry him.

It was only a quarter past six. The sun had risen an hour ago, but they were all still asleep when he knocked on their door. When there was no immediate reply, he became more persistent and shouted as he rapped with vigor, “Mr. Bingley, she is coming in! The Regalia has arrived!”

A groggy, but smiling gentleman opened the door, thanked him sincerely for his diligence and paid him the promised amount, then turned to shout the happy news even before he had shut the door. “Jane, Nanny, let’s get the children up. The Regalia has arrived!”

The feverish activity that then followed would have been comic to a visitor’s eye! Each adult hastened to dress him or herself, while coaxing the five sleepy children from their beds. William, once cognizant of the momentous occasion, needed no help in minimally washing up, dressing and even brushing his hair the way he knew his mother liked it, although he thought he looked like a sissy.

Jane lifted a warm and sleepy Edward into her arms and whispered, “Mummy and Papa are here, Edward. The ship is in the harbor and you can finally go on deck and steer her. Isn’t that what you’ve been waiting for? Come let me dress you.”

To Emma, who sat up in bed and tried to rub the sleep from her eyes, Jane said, “Darling! Mummy and Papa are just arriving. Do go brush your teeth and wash your face and hands. The dress you chose is laid out for you. Make a start, darling, so that we can be there to surprise them.”

Charles saw to his own brood, and with Nanny’s help had them ready in very short order. They all packed into the waiting carriage and hurried off towards the harbor.

Frederick Wentworth noticed an agitated little cluster of people on the dock and pulled out his spyglass. A smile curled his lips as he handed the glass to Ann and gestured for her to keep silent. She peered through the glass, and suppressing a little gasp, beamed back at her husband. They had brought them home safe and sound to that precious little throng that awaited them so happily! Truly, the dolphins had brought them good luck!

Chapter 20

Posted on Thursday, 8 July 2004

“Mummy,” choked out William, “you’re squishing me!”

“Oh my darling, I’m so sorry. It is just that I have missed you so much! I haven’t really hurt you have I?” said Elizabeth, releasing her precious son from her grasp and brushing his hair from his face. “You look exceedingly well! Your aunt Jane must have taken excellent care of you.”

“Yes, we’ve had a really good time together, and I love aunt Jane, but…I missed you, “ said William, reaching out for another hug.

Darcy had Emma in one arm and Edward in the other, and was turning to kiss and cuddle each of them in turn. How he had missed that wonderful baby scent that permeated their little bodies. They were even more beautiful than he had remembered, but he realized that they were not quite the same children he had left in the Bingleys’ care two weeks ago. Though the change was ever so slight, he saw that they had both lost a little of their babyishness, that they were both a bit more grown up… and it saddened him.

He now bent to embrace William and was suddenly plunged once again into the icy deep, the shards of wood piercing his calf, tumbling uncontrollably deeper and deeper into the darkness. The panic that had then gripped his chest returned, if only for a moment, to remind him of what he had nearly lost and it took every ounce of his strength to keep himself in control. Dear G-d, he was grateful to be home!

He rose to see Georgiana patiently waiting her turn to draw her beloved nephew into her arms. “Oh, how happy I am to see you, William,” she said. “I’ve missed you terribly!” Then rising slowly, she blushed and turned to take Horatio’s hand. “William, I’d like you to meet Mr. Hornblower. He is a sailor and an exceptionally fine gentleman.”

Without kneeling or stooping, Horatio extended his hand to William, along with a warm smile. “I am so glad to finally meet you, William. Your aunt has told me so many fine things about you.”

William shook his hand and although feeling a bit shy with this stranger, never the less had to ask about the crows nest. “Have you ever climbed all the way up there?” he asked. “And is it frightening?”

“Yes, I have, and it is frightening at first, but once you know how to climb and have confidence in your abilities, you no longer find it so. In fact, you come to enjoy it!” he replied.

“I should love to climb up there and look out over the sea,” said William.

“Well, perhaps your parents will permit us to climb a short way up together some day,” offered Horatio.

Georgiana smiled.

Darcy now came to kiss Jane, who was already in her sister’s embrace and landed up joyfully hugging and kissing them both. “How well you have done with our little rascals, Jane! They have truly thrived in your care. How can we ever thank you?”

“Well, first you must allow Edward to get at that wheel at the helm or I shall have no credibility with your children or mine. That has been the bait that I have been dangling before him these two weeks. And then you must come back to the Inn and rest – and tell us all about your adventures, of course,” she laughed.

“By all means!” replied Darcy, “I’m sure Captain Wentworth would allow us a tour and access to the bridge. Come aboard and let us find him.” He put Emma down, placing her hand in Elizabeth’s, and then greeted Charles and the children before leading the entire party up the plank of the Regalia.

The younger children took turns pretending to steer, pushing and pulling the heavy wheel, with Edward wailing all the while that it was his job alone and William, standing patiently by. Horatio came to stand beside him and bent to whisper in his ear. “Would you like to come and see some of the tools we use to navigate this ship, William?”

When William nodded enthusiastically, Horatio winked at Georgiana and said, “We are going down below to consult the navigational charts. We’ll be back shortly.”

“Anyone can steer a ship, William, but it takes knowledge of mathematics, geography, weather and navigation to decide where to go and how to get there safely. Are you good with figures, William?”

“Oh yes! I love mathematics best of all!” said William.

“Then you are a man after my own heart, William, for it is my favorite subject as well. Now come and look at these maps with me. Can you tell where we are now?”

Horatio explained the most basic concepts of navigation to William, showed him the compass and various other tools, and allowed him to peer through the spyglass from the cabin window. How excited he was to see the ships across the harbor so clearly and distinctly. But it was even more satisfying to simply looking over the maps and charts together, with Horatio supplying all sorts of interesting information. William’s natural intelligence and curiosity allowed him, even at this tender age, to enjoy such pursuits and he knew there was a great deal that he would like to learn from this Mr. Hornblower.

Although the Darcys and Bingleys implored the Wentworths to join them at the Inn for breakfast, Captain Wentworth insisted on staying behind to supervise the safe transfer of the their trunks to the wagons waiting to return to Pemberley. The horses needed to be attended to as well, and, it was obvious that he wanted to free Horatio from these duties so that he could spend as much time with Georgiana as possible before they had to part.

During a wonderfully leisurely breakfast, the Darcys told their eager audience about their experiences on the voyage to Denmark. There was an unspoken agreement between them that for now, with the children present and with their own emotions still in such turmoil, they would mention nothing of the accident or its subsequent repercussions. And so, they spoke of the joys of early morning walks on deck, musical serenades under the stars, the dolphins, the surprising comfort of their cabins and most of all, the vast beauty of the sea and sky. When Jane inquired about the Danish people, Elizabeth admitted that they were warm and friendly and that they had indeed, been treated royally. Georgiana could not contain her giggles and rising from her seat, declared that it was time for gifts!

She had carefully packed the gifts in a small trunk so that they would be easily accessible when they arrived home, but as the children had been brought along to meet them, she insisted on bringing that particular trunk to the inn. She knew how difficult it was for a young child to wait patiently for a long awaited gift and also realized that the ride home would be so much more pleasant if the little ones had something to occupy them. Horatio fetched the trunk and place it in the middle of the sitting room floor. Georgiana then knelt before it and made a game of peeking inside and pulling out the surprises to the delight of the children and parents alike.

William knew he would be last to receive his gift, since he was the oldest and more able to be patient. So he oohed and aahed along with everyone else as each gift was unwrapped and admired, but he could not contain his eagerness as the last of his cousins received his gift. He inched forward and stood before Georgiana, his smiling face looking up at her expectantly.

But suddenly his dear aunt’s face became grave, her eyes filled and she rose from the floor and fled to the bedchamber. Elizabeth jumped up to follow her, but Horatio held up his hand and begged, “Please let me go to her.”

Elizabeth nodded, and bent to reassure and distract a rather distressed William.

As Horatio closed the door quietly behind him, Georgiana looked up tearfully. “I am thoroughly ashamed of my behavior out there, but I didn’t know what to do. All the gifts I have for William were selected or suggested by Christian and I couldn’t bear the thought of his playing with them. Yet I have nothing else to give him! He is out there thinking that I have forgotten him, and….”

“Shhhhh, Georgie. Don’t distress yourself so. I have something that you can give him. Here…,” he said, as he went to the leather satchel he had brought with him and pulled out a large package neatly wrapped in brown paper. “I meant it as a joint gift for all three children, but I am very glad for William to have it. The others will enjoy it along with him anyway.”

“But it is a gift from you, Horatio! I cannot deprive you the pleasure of giving it to them.”

“Consider it a gift from both of us then,” he said, giving her his irresistible grin and wiping the tears from her cheeks. “But don’t let him know that just yet. May I always be able to solve our problems so easily,” he laughed. “Now go, he is waiting for you.”

She kissed him and took the package gratefully, dashing out of the room with as bright a smile as she could manage.

“I was all upset earlier, thinking that I had left your gift on board, William,” she said, coming to kneel beside him. “But as it was so big, I had packed it in another trunk. Thank goodness I found it! I hope you enjoy it – it is a very special gift,” she said, handing it to him.

William remembered to politely thank her, but his face could not hide his disappointment. The other gifts had been brightly wrapped and tied up with beautiful ribbons, having obviously been bought at the finest shops. This package was brown and lumpy. What wonderful thing could it possibly contain?

He gave her a shy smile and began to pull off the string, then the paper. What was revealed was nothing like any toy he had seen before. First he removed a three-foot long plank of wood that was painted and decorated to look like the sea. The bottom was flat so that it could stand upright and the top edge was carved to look like waves. Then there was an odd-looking clamp and handle, and a third piece that looked like a wheel, with its spokes cut to varying lengths. At the end of each spoke was a carved wooden dolphin, beautifully painted with every detail. William looked up at his aunt expectantly, as if waiting for her to tell him what it was.

Georgiana stared at the wooden pieces before her, unable to speak.

“May I set it up for you, William, and show you how it works?” asked Horatio.

William nodded and followed him to the table where he fastened the clamp to the table edge, attached the wheel to the small dowel protruding from the clamp and secured the handle. “Now put those waves in front of the clamp to hide it and come turn the handle,” said Horatio.

As he did so, the dolphins leapt in and out of the water – babies following their parents, some in the midst of a flip, others sailing smoothly back into the swells. It was beautiful and amusing to see and even more exciting to control. Edward clapped his little hands, shouting for the fishies to jump, while Emma came running to the back of the table to see how it all worked. William gladly let her take over, for he wanted to watch the entertainment from the other side. What a wonderful gift this was!

Jane and Charles laughed at the dolphin’s antics, but all three Darcys were suddenly very quiet. They had wanted to share this experience with their children and Horatio had done his best to make it possible! Georgiana took his hands in hers and kissed his callused fingers. “I’ve been wondering why your hands have been so sore,” she murmured. “Thank you,” she whispered. “It is the most wonderful gift I have ever received.

Darcy poured Horatio a glass of his finest port in the hope that it would help to put his young friend at ease, for he had done his best to make this prescribed custom as easy for him as possible, and yet he continued to look uncomfortable and embarrassed. And Darcy could not, for the life of him, understand why! Surely he knew that he had his blessing as well as his consent! Why, he had been treated like one of the family since they had left Denmark! Unable to make Horatio out, he sat back in his chair and waited patiently for him to continue.

“You need not walk on egg shells with me, Fitzwilliam. I know you are avoiding those difficult questions you would normally put to a man asking for your sister’s hand and… although appreciate your sensitivity, I can answer them and truly wish to do so. No subjects should be “verboten” between us. I will truly only become a member of this family when there are no secrets, no hidden agendas and no forbidden topics of conversation. So fire away!”

“Well,” said Darcy hesitantly, “ where do you plan on making your home once you are married, Horatio? You do know that you are welcome to live at Pemberley for as long as you wish,” he added quickly.

“Well, Georgiana and I will hopefully be able to marry in about six months, for I first wish to earn enough money to get us started. I’ve accepted a cruise to the West Indies and have already agreed to take along three private businessmen in whose ventures I shall share, presuming they are successful in developing their new markets, of course. That, together with the regular pay should provide us with a modest, but sufficient sum to perhaps purchase a small piece of land here in Derbyshire. That is… together with the sale of this...” He brought forth the small silk pouch and gesturing for Fitzwilliam to open his hand, allowed the sparkling gem to roll into his open palm.

Darcy’s eyes widened and his jaw went slack. “Where on earth did you get such a beautiful gem? It is a diamond, is it not? I’ve never seen anything like it!”

“Christian had brought back several of these beauties from the south of Africa and he gave this one to me when we met privately before the first ball. He called it a token of his appreciation for my efforts on his behalf. I had, at one time, thought of having it set for Georgiana, but I would not have it on her finger now, and besides, I think the money it will bring can be put to better use.”

“Oh yes! I know very little about gems,” said Fitzwilliam, “but the quality of this stone of glaringly obvious!”

“I do wish to beg a favor, Fitzwilliam. Would you take it upon yourself to sell it for me while I am away? I would not know where to begin or which houses to approach, and I believe that you, with your respected place in society, will get a better price than I. This letter of authenticity and ownership from Christian should answer any questions concerning its acquisition.”

“I would be happy to sell it on your behalf, Horatio, and I do believe that it should fetch a pretty penny – but I shall have it appraised by the best houses before I put it on the market, in any case. ...So you wish to settle in Derbyshire? Is it not a rather inconvenient location for a man of your profession?”

“I do not wish to take Georgiana away from you, Elizabeth and the children. I, unfortunately, have no family, and Georgiana would be terribly lonely so far away. And now that Frederick and Anne will be moving to the Fairfield Estate, I shall feel I have close friends here as well.” He took a sip of wine and looked intently at Darcy.

“I thought that we could build a small cottage on that land and as our finances improve, add on. I understand you have a good friend who is a gifted architect. Perhaps he could create a design that would lend itself to being built in stages.”

“Horatio, Georgiana will bring a great deal of money into this marriage. You needn’t feel that you must wait until you can provide for everything yourself. Many men deliberately marry woman with money to improve their lot in life, and although I know that that was not your intention, it is absurd for you to try to live on your income alone.”

“That has never been my intention, Fitzwilliam. I would not reduce Georgiana to such a state! But there will be furnishings, household items, Georgie’s wardrobe and other things that I cannot now even imagine that will need to be purchased. I want Georgiana to feel free to buy what she desires without thought to economy, and her own money will make that possible. I will feel better, however, knowing that I have helped to provide us with a home at least, but I do promise not to let my pride interfere with our happiness.”

“Have you told her of your commission?” asked Darcy.

“No, not as yet. I want to give her at least one day of unconstrained joy before upsetting her with the news. And I am counting on all of you to keep her strong while I am away. It seems that I am placing all of my responsibilities on you,” he said with a bittersweet smile. “…I promise to make it up to all of you on my return.”

“We are a family, Horatio. It is what we do instinctively and happily – especially for such a good cause.”

“And I cannot tell you how it comforts me to know that I am leaving her to your love and affection. How tortured I would be otherwise!” He came to shake Darcy’s hand and was pulled into a momentary embrace that embarrassed them both, but spoke to the relationship they had already developed and the one they looked forward to as brothers.

“Ah, I almost forgot,” said Horatio, “I have an invitation to extend. The Admiralty gives a ball at this time of year to honor retiring officers and congratulate new captains, such as myself. It will be held on Saturday next, and I would be very honored for all of you to attend. The officers always have their families at their table and it would mean the world to me to have you and the Wentworths there.”

“It will be a joy to attend such a ball, Horatio – a joy indeed!”

Georgiana tried her best to look happy for she knew how much it meant to Horatio. Yet the knowledge that in just two days, he would be off on his frigate, thoroughly absorbed in his new adventure, and she would be left at home to worry and wait, weighed on her mind. He would miss her in the quiet of his cabin, of course, but for most of the day he would be far too involved to even think of her. She had thought herself prepared, but…it was hard, far harder than she had imagined. So now she had to play the part – smile and laugh and pretend to be the brave navy…well, she wasn’t his wife yet, but they were a couple – they belonged to one another. It felt as if she was being separated from her own heart – for that was how she thought of him. He was her heart – or, at least, the muscle that kept it beating.

She glided gracefully at his side, meeting the other officers and their wives, trying to sound as if she knew the difference between a frigate and sloop and accepting their best wishes on their engagement. Her mind whirled! How on earth would she remember the names of so many important people?

“Georgiana, I would like you to meet my dearest friend and mentor, Admiral Sir Edward Pellew. I do not wish to embarrass him, but he has been more like a father to me than a superior officer – a very demanding father, but a father, never-the-less. Admiral Pellew, this is my beloved Georgiana, whom I have told you so much about.” He could only stand and beam at the two of them, for truly, they were his family, the two people in the world he loved best.

Georgiana offered him her hand along with the warmest and most genuine of smiles. “I am very pleased to finally meet you, Sir, and wish to thank you for your very particular care of Horatio. You have safeguarded him for me and I will be forever grateful.”

“Forgive me, my dear, but you have it quite wrong. More often then not, it was Horatio who safeguarded me; but I will allow myself the credit of some of his training. The rest is natural instinct and nerve, and only G-d in heaven can take credit for giving him that!” And taking her hand in his, he said softly, “I must admit to you, my dear, that I was sure this love-sick puppy was exaggerating when he described you to me, but truly he did not even do you justice. You are not only the loveliest creature in all of England, but you are by far the sweetest young woman I have ever met. Why is it that there were none the likes of you when I was in want of a wife?”

Georgiana blushed and Admiral Pellew bowed again, gesturing an invitation to dance with his outstretched hand. She curtsied again, smiling broadly, and he whisked her onto the dance floor. Horatio could not have been happier; another fashionable young woman might have found it a distasteful obligation to be in the company of a weather-beaten old seaman, but he could already see the beginnings of a warm friendship between them. They had taken to each other right away, as he had hoped they would.

Dinner was a long, drawn out affair – what with all the presentations and speeches. Somewhere between the third and forth course, King George himself graced the ball with his presence and the pomp that went along with his being duly honored and finally seated took another half an hour. But for Horatio, this was a time to be savored. He looked around the table at the people that had come to honor and support him and inwardly wept with joy. With Georgiana at his left, Admiral Pellew at his right, the Darcys, the Wentworths, and several of his mates from sea, he felt like the richest man alive.

As the lavish meal came to end, it was announced that there was one more honor to be presented by his Majesty himself and the room was hushed as everyone turned to the dais where King George was seated. His royal highness rose, however, and came to stand at the podium, accompanied by the Prince Regent and other members of his entourage. The room erupted with curious murmurings as everyone speculated as to whom such an honor would be given.

“My, my,” said Horatio, leaning in to whisper in Georgiana’s ear. “You would think that Lord Nelson himself were here with all this hullabaloo.” He was too engrossed by the scent of her perfume and the wisps of hair that accentuated the beauty of her neck to notice that Admiral Pellew and Captain Wentworth had come to stand behind his chair.

“Stand forth, stand forth!” called out Admiral Keating. “Stand forth and present yourself to be knighted by His Majesty, King George III. Captain Horatio Hornblower, stand forth!”

He must have heard his name, but his brain did not register it; and it was only the look on Georgiana’s face and the sensation of having his chair forcibly pulled out from under him that brought his mind to the reality of the moment. Captain Wentworth and Admiral Pellew lifted him by the arms from his seat. His mouth dropped open and he began to shake his head, murmuring, “…it can’t be” when he saw everyone at his table rise, smile and applaud most enthusiastically.

They led him, numb, and totally devoid of comprehension, to stand before the King. Thank G-d, his body remembered the prescribed ceremonial courtesies, for his brain certainly was not functioning. When he rose from his bow and dared to look at his monarch, he finally realized that this ceremony was actually for him.

“Captain Hornblower, this nation owes you a debt of gratitude that has been long in coming. But I now wish to add the bravery and valor you have shown in time of peace to the long list of exemplary and truly remarkable feats you have taken to protect and strengthen your country’s safety and honor. I hereby bestow on you the title of Knight and ask all of England address you as Sir Horatio Hornblower from this day forward. Please kneel.”

Georgiana wept openly, though silently, as the blade of the sword touched his shoulders. How pleased she was for him! It was an honor much deserved, but never even contemplated. He had been her personal knight since the day they had met at the booksellers, but now all of England would give him this honor as well.

Chapter 21

Posted on Wednesday, 14 July 2004

Although Horatio was in her thoughts and prayers countless times a day, Georgiana was the first to admit that his time at sea passed very quickly. For upon their return from Denmark, Elizabeth had begun to blossom and as her girth expanded, so did her energy diminish. The younger children, distressed by the change in their mother, became anxious and difficult and Georgiana took it upon herself to take over most of Elizabeth’s activities with them. Emma insisted on wearing the same pink flowered frock every single day – refusing to give it up even to be washed, and Edward, well, … Edward simply became a more exaggerated Edward! Fitzwilliam did his best to share in the burden, but his own fears sometimes had the effect of making him a fourth child in need of attention and understanding. In short, Georgiana’s hands were full and neither her heart nor her mind had much time for pining.

She would carry on a running conversation with Horatio as she dealt with her anxious family, for it unburdened her heart to bend his willing ear with her frustrating dilemmas and amusing situations. And it also made her feel very close to him. She wrote to him often, of course, but never knew for certain that he had receive her letters or if he had, how outdated they had been. She would laugh to herself as she imagined his humorous suggestions and responses to her ramblings!

A few months after Horatio’s departure, the Wentworths moved into the Fairfield Estates, inhabiting a small corner of the great house while construction was started, and when Anne gave birth to a beautiful, healthy boy, it was Georgiana who arranged for the best neighborhood midwife to attend her. She spent a great deal of time with Anne, traveling back and forth between Pemberley and Fairfield, so that she would have a close female companion. Elizabeth visited when she could, but traveling had become more and more difficult for her and the deeply rutted roads made the ride uncomfortable and dangerous. Sadly, it seemed that Anne’s own sisters were such wretched, selfish creatures that they would not even trouble themselves to visit her! Yet whenever Georgiana spent time with Anne and her precious son, she was worrying about the details of life at Pemberley and she overburdened her body and her emotions in her struggle to be useful to both families. Horatio would later joke that her adventures in Denmark had served the specific purpose of strengthening and preparing her for her trials at home.

When the pains began, Darcy packed his children off to the Bingley’s and returned home as quickly as possible to support and comfort his wife. He was grateful to be allowed to remain with her at the beginning of the labor, for rubbing her lower back, wiping her brow and whispering endearments to her as she struggled, comforted him immensely. And although his sweet wife was especially brave and tried to minimize her pains for his sake, he clearly knew their intensity and would have given anything to be able to take on her suffering. He had hoped that this time would be relatively easy for her, as everyone had assured him that each successive birth became easier and shorter. But this pattern did not seem to hold true for Elizabeth – not this time.

As the length of her contractions increased and the time between them decreased, he was ousted from the room to wait and pace and face his demons on his own. Georgiana sat with him for some time, but as Elizabeth’s pain became more acute, he insisted that she go into the music room and play the piano to relieve her anxiety. Mrs. Reynolds would come out of the birthing room every now and then to reassure him that all was going well and implore him to retire to the library, where he would not hear her cries, but it was to no avail; he would not leave her antechamber. If Elizabeth was forced to bear the pain, how could he be so selfish as to spare himself the agony of sharing in it?

Hours passed and Darcy was beside himself as Elizabeth’s cries grew fainter, yet more guttural and primitive in nature. She was obviously in a grossly weakened state, with barely the strength to cry out. How much longer could she endure it? Unable to restrain himself, he burst into the room just in time to see the infant’s head emerging. Everyone shouted for him to leave, save Elizabeth, who simply reached out for him and he flew to her side to give her what strength and encouragement he could. Positioning himself behind her on the bed, he raised her upper body against chest, supporting her shoulders and back, and whispering directly into her ear, gave her the fortitude she needed to bear down with vigor. Thus little Julia Darcy came into the world, crying and trembling with such energy that everyone rejoiced at the sight of such a strong and healthy child.

Elizabeth leaned back against her husband in exhaustion, still panting from her efforts, but looking up at him lovingly. The restrictions against husbands in the birthing room were most rigid and it was considered grossly indecent for a man to be present during the birth of his child. Yet her husband had risked censure from everyone – even the snickering of his servants – to be with her when she needed him. How she adored this man!

He kissed her flushed and sweat soaked brow, praising her, extolling her virtues and professing his love for her, again and again! He was about to kiss her mouth when she went rigid in his arms. Her eyes widened with the intensity of her pain and as she cried out, the doctor murmured, “Dear G-d, there’s another!”

Little Sophia was born some seven minutes after her twin sister to the astonishment of all, especially the good doctor. He carefully examined his patient once again to be certain that there were no more surprises, but the condition he discovered was far more serious. And in a voice most urgent and forceful, he chased everyone but the midwife from the room, pleading with Mrs. Reynolds to remove Darcy so that he could focus on his work unhindered.

Darcy gasped at the amount of blood that suddenly poured forth, but he staggered out obediently, silently begging G-d to guide the doctor’s hands and help him save his wife. In an instant, he had gone from utter elation to heart stopping panic. His mind blocked out all the sights and sounds around him as he turned inward in fear and grief. Could he really be losing her now, barely six years into their marriage? The faces of his children appeared before him and he focused on imploring heaven on their behalf. Georgiana held him as he rocked, ever so slightly, back and forth in prayer.

It was but ten minutes later that the doctor emerged from the chamber, drying his clean hands on a towel and looking somewhat solemn, but not grave. He requested that Mrs. Reynolds return to assist Mrs. Moore, the midwife, in the care of Mrs. Darcy and that he be allowed to speak privately with Fitzwilliam. Georgiana begged to stay, but the doctor refused to discuss such delicate matters in front of a yet unmarried young lady and Darcy’s eyes implored Georgiana to be gone immediately so that he could hear the doctor’s news.

When the door closed behind her, Dr. Jamison put his hand on Darcy’s shoulder and smiled. “She will be just fine in a few days time, Fitzwilliam – although rather weak, I’m afraid. She has lost a great deal of blood, but she is a strong and feisty young woman. She would not leave you, Sir. She told me that directly.”

Fitzwilliam broke down in uncontrollable sobs, thanking heaven for his blessings and the doctor for his excellent work. How could he ever repay him for returning his Elizabeth to him?

“I’m afraid that there were some serious complications, however, Mr. Darcy. You may not think me such a miracle worker when I tell you that, sadly, these beautiful twins will be the last children your wife will be able to bear. I am very sorry. She is such a young woman, but it was the only way I could save her life.”

Darcy couldn’t believe his ears! He wanted to kiss the doctor and shout his praises, but he knew that these actions would be misunderstood. What loving husband would wish for such a thing? He feigned a somber countenance and told Dr. Jamison that he was simply happy to have his wife alive and well. They had been blessed with five healthy children and he considered himself a very lucky man!

Darcy arrived at the Bingley’s door with such a broad grin on his face that Jane ran to kiss and congratulate him even before she knew the sex of the blessed arrival. Charles came forward to pump his hand, saying, “Well, out with it man! Are you going to keep us in suspense forever?”

“Actually, only for another few minutes,” replied Darcy, looking about for his son and heir. “I wish to tell William first, if you don’t mind.”

“Here I am, Papa,” came a voice from the top of the stairs and before anyone could stop him William came sliding down the banister and landed squarely before his father.”

“William!” said Darcy, “since when are you permitted to slide down the banister?”

“I’m not actually permitted to do it, Papa, but I knew you had something to tell me that couldn’t wait for walking,” he said most earnestly.

Darcy wanted to laugh, but sat down on the step instead, taking William onto his lap. “William I have some excellent news. Mama is well and resting comfortably and you are a big brother yet again.”

William smiled. “Will Mama feel better now that the baby is out of her tummy?” he inquired.

“I am sure that she will feel like her old self again very soon. But for now, she will need a great of rest and lots of our affection. Do you not want to know whether you have a sister or brother?” asked Darcy.

“I already know,” said William. “I have another sister. You would have told me immediately if it were a boy.”

“I’m sorry William,” said Darcy smiling compassionately. “I’m afraid you are right, but only partially so. Actually, you have two sisters! Double the responsibility, but double the joy!”

“Twin girls!” shouted Jane. “Oh, I must see to my sister immediately. Charles, get the coach ready quickly! I must to Pemberley!” she cried in flurry of excitement. And for a split second, she sounded just like her mother and Darcy and Bingley both heard it and roared with laughter.

“You are certainly welcome to come back with me and the children,” said Darcy, hugging her. “And there is no rush, Jane. She is fast asleep. The doctor gave her a powder before leaving and implied that she would sleep for some time.”

As the time of Horatio’s return drew near, Georgiana became more and more restless and often sought refuge in a long ride on Belle, the gentle mare Horatio had taken from Christian as a gift for her. Sometimes she rode to the Fairfield Estate to visit Anne, and at other times she simply galloped about Pemberley’s open spaces, seeking the calming sounds of a running stream or the beauty of a meadow strewn with wildflowers. Today she decided on a more extensive ride to an area about one and a half miles from Pemberley that she had lovingly named Pemberwood as a young child. It was an area rich in game, towering oaks and sycamores and several small waterfalls that spilled their icy water into wide streams containing large, flat rocks. These were the places of her childhood, the places where she had played endless games with Fitzwilliam before he had left for school. She loved these quiet, undisturbed spots; they brought back precious memories and steadied her.

Her ears were the first to be assaulted by the unnatural sounds of chopping, sawing and then, the earth-trembling thud of trees falling to the ground. The sound of men’s voices shouting and laughing as they worked, spurred her forward in a rage. Who were these thieves who dared to take timber from her precious Pemberwood? Each and every tree belonged just where nature had placed it! She would put a stop to this immediately!

But as she approached the clearing, she stopped suddenly, realizing that she was alone in the midst of thirty to forty burly men who would not know her as a Darcy and who, perhaps, would not even care. She nodded to the group of men that had already spotted her, and urging Belle on, galloped away for home.

She burst into the library, where Fitzwilliam was occupied with the morning mail.

“Fitzwilliam! You must come immediately and bring as many men with you as possible! There are poachers in Pemberwood and they are destroying it,” she pulled on his arm as she spoke. Her brother’s grimace and stiff resistance shocked her.

“Georgie, those men are working under my orders; I know very well that they are there.”

“But… but why would you want to clear Pemberwood of its beautiful trees? Fitzwilliam, what can you be thinking?”

“Very lovely thoughts, actually,” he said with a tender smile. “Only, I was hoping to keep all this from you until…. What made you ride out there today?”

“I don’t really know; I just felt like wandering about the streams, I suppose.” She looked at the odd expression on his face and said, “Please tell me that you are not going to sell that precious piece of land! …But wait!… You are not permitted to sell any parcel of it off, in any case! Is that not right? Does not our grandfather’s will forbid it?”

“Yes, you are quite right,” said Darcy, looking rather amused. “But nowhere does it say that I cannot lease it for say, …five hundred years, to a member of the family.” He tried to suppress his grin.

Georgiana looked at him in confusion.

“I hate to spoil the surprise, Georgie, but I suppose there is nothing to be done but to tell you the truth, since you have stumbled on it. I am giving you and Horatio two hundred acres of Pemberwood as a wedding gift, and am having that small section cleared so that Thomas can take the measurements he needs to begin planning the construction of your new home.”

Georgiana was speechless! Her tears began to flow immediately, while her expression changed from shock – to elation – to distress. She stepped forward to embrace her brother.

“Fitzwilliam, I cannot tell you what this means to me. It is beyond my wildest imaginings! But…you know how proud Horatio is. I do not know that he will accept it,…and if he does, it may only be to please me, and… I would think that he would want to be closer to Plymouth. I don’t know…”

“But I do know, or I wouldn’t have felled one of those precious trees of yours,” teased Darcy. “Horatio told me of his desire to purchase a small piece of land here in Derbyshire so that we could be close to one another. He then asked me to keep my eyes and ears open for such an opportunity. The land alone is my gift; the two of you will design the house and gardens, and the money saved on the land purchase will help to finance the construction. In the meantime, the two of you can have the west wing apartments for your own.

“Oh Fitzwilliam! It is too much! I think that I shall burst for happiness! Did he really say that he wished for us to settle in Derbyshire?”

Georgiana Darcy and Lord Horatio Hornblower were married in the chapel at Pemberley before their family and a few close friends. After the wedding breakfast the young couple secluded themselves in their apartments for the remainder of the day, emerging radiantly happy that evening at the ball given in their honor.

The guest list for the ceremony was primarily made up of family members, mostly from Elizabeth’s side; her parents, the Gardiners, her four sisters, their husbands and children took up most of the seats in the chapel. The elder Matlocks, Richard, his elder brother and his family made up the first two pews, together with the most surprising guests of all.

Lady Catherine had never recognized her nephew’s marriage and until now, had not set foot in Pemberley or contacted her relations in any way. But as she had had no real disagreement with Georgiana and as she had brought a knighted naval hero into the family (though unfortunately, lowly born), Lady Catherine decided that she would not lose face in attending these nuptials. In truth, she had been waiting for an excuse to reconcile with her nephew, but her pride had prevented her from doing so. It was even more for Anne’s sake that she wished a return to their former familial state. As she grew older and her health began to wane, Lady Catherine began to worry for her fragile and isolated daughter. Anne’s circle of acquaintances was painfully small. What would become of her once she was gone? It was for Anne’s future happiness as well as her own wretched loneliness that she had accepted the invitation from Pemberley.

Horatio had asked Admiral Pellew to stand up with him and had invited several other officers and their wives. The Wentworths, the Witherbees, and six other couples that made up their intimate social circle attended as well. But the evening’s festivities included some three hundred other guests that arrived from London, Bath and the surrounding countryside. The wedding ball was written up in the London Gazzette as the event of the season, for it was rumored that an orchestra had been brought in from Austria to play their famous waltzes.

To the cheers of their guests, the newlyweds came out onto the dance floor to open the ball, but soon eyebrows were raised as the groom put his hand around the bride’s waist and began whirling her about. The ladies whispered behind fluttering fans and the gentleman grinned and winked at one another as the Darcys, the Bingleys and Wentworths joined in with much enthusiasm. The Witherbees would not be left behind, although they felt a bit awkward at first, never having waltzed before, and soon other couples came forward, eager to learn the waltz. The Earl of Matlock stood up with his wife and it was soon obvious that they were not new to this form of dancing. Richard chuckled and shook his head. “Well,” he said to himself, “I suppose I should get into the fray.” Saying that, he came to stand before his cousin Anne and bowed. “May I have the pleasure of this dance, dear cousin?”

“Oh, Richard!” said Lady Catherine before poor Anne could answer, “You know this sort of dancing is far too strenuous for Anne! Besides, it is downright indecent!” she said with disdain.

But Richard did not allow himself to be deterred by his aunt and simply offered Anne his outstretched hand. She looked to her mother, then back to Richard, and allowing a bashful smile to escape from behind her usually somber countenance, she rose to her feet and gave him her hand.

“Now you shall have to be very patient with me, dear cousin,” said Richard as he led her to the dance floor, “for I have never waltzed before and have two left feet besides. But this looks like too much fun to sit out. Let me know when you tire and we shall rest.”

Anne de Bourgh did not tire that quickly. Although her breath grew short and her color was high, she refused to leave the dance floor. She had never felt so happy and free in her life, and she would use every ounce of energy available to her to prolong this wonderful sensation.

To say that everyone enjoyed themselves at the ball would be a gross understatement, but none, of course, were happier than the bride and groom. Were they dreaming? Was it really possible that she, Georgiana Darcy, had the blessings of her family to marry Horatio Hornblower? Was it possible that they were being accepted – no, esteemed by everyone that mattered in their lives? Their trip to Denmark had been an adventure, a cruise into the unknown, but they both realized that they were now embarking on the adventure of their lives. They had been joined together as man and wife to be one heart and soul, but their minds had been formed by two very different realities of life and they would now be sailing through uncharted waters together. Yet they were fearless. They knew the strength of their love and commitment.

After two hours of dancing, the young couple thanked their guests, kissed their loved ones and left for a fortnight’s holiday at a gracious little inn by the lakes. As it was dark, Darcy had insisted that two other carriages escort them. Hopefully, they would arrive in less than two hours time, but he would not close an eye until the carriages returned to say that they had been delivered in safety.

As they were walking back towards the house, Elizabeth whispered to Fitzwilliam that she would take this opportunity to nurse the twins and return to the ball as soon as she could. But as she mounted the stairs, she was accosted by her cousin Anne, who begged to speak to her.

“Mrs. Darcy,” she said shyly, “may I accompany you and have a word? I would so like the opportunity to speak to you alone.”

Elizabeth was surprised to say the least! “I am going to the nursery to nurse the twins,” she began. “If that is not an uncomfortable situation for you, I would be most happy to have your company,” she said kindly.

“Oh no! It would be an honor for me to witness such felicity. I thank you for being so generous.”

To Elizabeth’s amazement, Anne had been waiting for the chance to speak to her away from her mother’s hearing. “I have so longed to be on good terms with you and Fitzwilliam and Georgiana. I have always adored Fitzwilliam, but my mother’s absurd insistence that we marry made me very shy in his presence. I never knew what to say to him or how my words would be interpreted. Once the two of you wed, I had hoped to become a friend to both of you, but as you know, I am not the mistress of my own life. I wrote you several letters of congratulations, but Mrs. Jenkinson found each and every one and my mother threw them into the fire. Once, when we were shopping in London, I sent a large bear for William. I had read of his birth in the papers and longed to be a part of my nephew’s life. Did you by chance receive it? I did not dare to put my name to it for fear of being found out.”

“Oh my goodness, yes! It has been a family mystery for years! We always wondered who had sent that wonderful bear. If you peek into William’s room right now you will see that he sleeps with it still – although he would admit it to no one. Oh, Anne, I am so sorry that I have been the cause of your estrangement to Fitzwilliam and Georgiana. I know that they both care for you very much and have been truly saddened by what has happened. Can we not change that now that Lady Catherine has consented to honor us with her presence?” she said with a cheeky grin that she hoped would not be taken as offense.

“Yes! That is precisely what I was hoping and why I needed to speak to you now. I know how rude it must appear for me to beg an invitation to stay for a few days, but I fear that once we return to Rosings it will be near impossible to convince my mother to let me come. Since I am already here, and both Fitzwilliam and Richard have a far greater influence on my mother than I, she may consent to a short visit. How I ache to become a true auntie to your children, Elizabeth! I will never have little ones of my own, and you would be doing me a great kindness in allowing me into their lives. Do I ask too much after all my mother has put you through?” She was suddenly silent and close to tears.

Elizabeth remembered the first time she had seen Anne in the carriage outside the parsonage and how she had misjudged her. How prejudiced she had been towards everyone involved with Fitzwilliam then. How unjust she had been to this poor, unfortunate young woman.

“Fitzwilliam and I shall extend the invitation with the suggestion that we could use your help with the children, Anne. But do you think your mother will wish to stay on with you? Be assured that we will want you, in either case.”

“I would be very much surprised if she did. Simply being here for the wedding and seeing how well you have done together without any help from her has been difficult. She would find it humiliating to be your houseguest after the wedding festivities are over. At least, I hope so!” Anne laughed.

Elizabeth gave Anne a nappy to put over her shoulder and handed little Sophie over for her to burp. The look in Anne’s eyes was heart wrenching!

Horatio managed to keep his excursions at sea to a couple of months at a time, using his newly honored status as leverage for more lengthy assignments at home. Along with the building of their small cottage at Pemberwood, the young couple leased a small flat in Portsmouth so that they could be together when Horatio was stationed there. They unashamedly furnished it with older pieces from various guest rooms at Pemberley and were wonderfully happy with their simple arrangements.

Darcy, slowly and discreetly, involved his young brother-in-law in business ventures and investments that soon afforded the grateful couple a more comfortable style of life. But they continued on in their simple ways, far too content to wish to change anything. When their first child was born, they were very glad to have that substantial nest egg and as promised, Horatio gave up his life at sea. Happily, the Admiralty understood his worth and retained his services on a strategic level, making it possible for him to remain in his profession, while allowing him the time to increase his business interests and spend time with his family. Little Edward Hornblower, named after Admiral Pellew, was equally at home at Pemberley as in Portsmouth, growing up with the love and affection of wonderful people of greatly varying rank, personalities and financial resources.

When his godfather suffered a slight stroke, little Edward was the only one who could rouse him from his depressive state and Georgiana insisted that the Admiral come and live with them at Pemberwood when he was released from the nursing home. At first, Edward Pellew felt uneasy, believing himself a burden and an intruder in the lives of these generous young people; but he did love Horatio so! And Georgiana seemed to take great comfort in his company whenever Horatio was away on business. He knew his place in the family and was very careful not to overstep the boundaries that kept them all happy. He had his own set of rooms, with his own personal servants, so that there were days that he kept entirely to himself and left his precious little family to their privacy.

When his vigor returned and he was again able to walk, although with an exaggerated limp, he divided his time between the Fairfield Estate and Pemberwood, enjoying the company of Frederick and Anne and the Naval officers that often came to visit there. However, more and more his services were needed at home, for he had become the adopted grandparent of not only the Hornblower children, but the Darcy children as well.

William, Emma, Edward, Sophie and Julia all adored their grandpapa! They saw him almost every day, for they insisted on visiting him so that he could play with them and tell them exciting stories. He tutored William in advanced mathematics, naval history and navigation and found that Emma, by the time she was six, had a great fascination with the stars and therefore gave her lessons in astronomy.

On his passing, some fifteen years after he had first moved to Pemberwood, the Darcy and Hornblower children, now young adults, had to be reminded, if not informed, that he was not actually their grandfather and that he had already arranged a plot for himself at the naval cemetery. But there was unanimous agreement among the young people that he belonged at Pemberley, where they could easily visit his grave and pay him the respect he so richly deserved. Their request was honored, and Admiral Sir Edward Pellew was buried in the section of the cemetery reserved for the Hornblower side of the family.

In his eulogy, Horatio listed the Admiral’s courageous deeds, told of the strict yet tender nurturing he had received in his care as a young midshipman and extolled his character, quiet wisdom and humanity. And then he added, “When I first wished to married Georgiana, I felt unworthy of aligning myself with this family, not only because I lacked the social standing, wealth, and at the time, a lucrative profession, but because I knew that I came into this marriage on my own – with no father or mother, sisters or brothers to fuss over my bride, to be a source of comfort, help and happiness to her. This dear man has more than made up for that gap in my life. He has been a true father to me, a devoted and loving friend to Georgiana and a most beloved grandfather to all of you. I have been most grateful for the role he has played in my life and that I was able to share him with you.”

When Horatio Hornblower died at the age of eighty-six, he was survived by his loving wife Georgiana, two sons, a daughter, eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. After the funeral, they and all the Darcy family gathered at Pemberwood to mourn together. They sat and told the stories that were most meaningful to their lives, stories that ranged from the most poignant to the hilariously absurd and they laughed and cried and remembered him.

Georgiana did not grieve. The last few weeks of his illness had been painful and exhausting and she was grateful that they had both been released. She knew that their separation would not be long; she would be following him soon, just as her brother had joined Elizabeth just five months after her passing three years earlier. She had the love and support of her children and she would live out her life quietly in the home that she loved.

When the family was called to dinner, Georgiana begged to be left to rest a bit before joining them; she had no appetite, anyway. William, now a grandfather himself, came to sit beside her with a lumpy, brown package in his hands.

“I thought you might derive some pleasure from having this back, Aunt Georgiana,” he said, kissing her cheek.

She knew what it was without even opening it and held it to her heart. She remembered the feel of his calloused fingers against her lips and smiled. “How did I ever come to deserve the love of such a wonderful man, William?”

Georgiana Hornblower lived to see another two great-grandchildren come into the world. When she passed away, a year and a half after her beloved husband, she was buried between him and her brother, protected for eternity by the two, very best of men.

FINIS