The Mysterious Death of Mr. Darcy by Regina Jeffers Page A

Mr. Crescent remains in the neighborhood?”
    â€œI think Mr. Crescent will have found it prudent to seek employment elsewhere. Mr. Glover’s description of the criticism leveled at Mr. Crescent’s willingness to follow Cousin Samuel’s last wishes has painted the man in an unfavorable pose. However, I pray Mr. Crescent has lingered for, I fear, only he holds the answer to several of our questions.”
    With a commitment to learn all they could from the neighborhood, they had arrived early to be ushered to the Darcy box by the Wimborne village curate. However, after the service, Elizabeth had suggested that they join the crowds socializing before the church doors.
    â€œMr. Darcy,” a man running his hat’s brim through his fingers said as he offered a respectful bow, “I wish to extend my family’s condolences for your loss. I am Lucas Snow. I own the local mercantile.”
    Darcy nodded aristocratically, but Elizabeth offered the man her most beguiling smile. “Thank you, Mr. Snow. Mr. Darcy and I are gratified to know how much the late Mr. Darcy was loved and respected.”
    Snow’s nervousness faded, and Darcy marveled at how easily his wife had conquered the stranger’s hesitation. “The late Mr. Darcy was an excellent customer,” Snow related. “But more importantly, Samuel Darcy was a true gentleman. He treated everyone with compassion. The late Mr. Darcy spoke to the individual rather than to society.”
    Darcy said fondly, “My cousin held a reputation for his benevolence, but it is an honor to hear such sentiments upon your lips.”
    Snow smiled widely. “I speak the truth, Mr. Darcy. There were few in the neighborhood who would speak ill of your cousin.”
    Darcy asked astutely, “But there were some?”
    Snow flinched under Darcy’s direct gaze. “Samuel Darcy knew value when he saw it, and there are always those who offer inferior products,” the man said privately.
    â€œSuch as the gypsies?” Darcy said softly.
    â€œYes, the gypsies, but others who pass through. Those who were on the open end of Samuel Darcy’s evaluations were not always pleased by his words.”
    As Snow made his excuses to depart, Darcy nodded his understanding. Several others offered their condolences before the Darcys made to board his carriage. Mr. Williamson, the curate, found them awaiting Murray’s setting of the step.
    â€œMr. Darcy,” Williamson said genially, “you have done our simple church an honor with your presence, Sir. Hopefully, you will join us again. I understand you plan to remain in the neighborhood for several weeks.”
    â€œWe do.” Darcy placed Elizabeth’s hand on his arm. “I have promised Mrs. Darcy a holiday while we await the appearance of my cousins Lady Cynthia Sanderson and Colonel Fitzwilliam.”
    Williamson cocked his head. “I was unaware of the colonel’s anticipated arrival.”
    â€œThe colonel is visiting with acquaintances in Cornwall. I have asked him to join us for a few days. As he has regularly traveled beyond England’s shores as part of his service to the King, the colonel will provide us new insights on how best to proceed in identifying the value of Cousin Samuel’s effects.”
    Williamson gave a self-conscious laugh. “I did not mean to intrude, Mr. Darcy. Our little village will rejoice with the news of the colonel’s and Lady Cynthia’s appearances. It is not often we entertain those of the aristocracy.”
    Elizabeth’s dry voice interrupted. “We had hoped, Mr. Williamson, to encounter Mr. Crescent at services this morning. Mr. Darcy wished to acknowledge Mr. Crescent’s long service to his cousin.”
    â€œAccording to Mr. Glover, Mr. Crescent has located a new position.”
    â€œSo soon?” Elizabeth asked innocently; yet, Darcy took note of how quickly she had pounced on