Work Text:
“Really Darcy, I am surprised at you. Why could you possibly think that Jane is an unsuitable match for me?”
Darcy brandished a sheaf of papers at Bingley. “Dear man, did you not write me that you thought that Bennet had the profile of a radical? And look at how close Wickham is to the family. I smell champagne in this, and not the celebratory kind.”
Bingley shrugged. “Bennet may be a Dissenter, and he may be a radical, but he’s no Jacobin. Not even a Tom Paine. And you, of all people, should know that Wickham is like Eden’s snake. He worms his way everywhere, and especially into the hearts of women.”
“The other Wickham and Lord Grenville have both responded to my letters. They think something is not quite right.”
“Darcy, since when are you on speaking terms with the Grenvilles? I thought you were a Pitt and Burke man.”
Darcy clenched his fist. “Bingley, as you are my friend, I beg you not to go through with this. She is using you. She does not strike me as the kind to love you.”
Bingley raised an eyebrow. “Do you really think so? Do your spies tell you that?”
“They are not my spies. They are the Crown’s. And you are the only one who reports to me.”
“I see. Do you really think she doesn’t love me?”
“You are rich, she is poor. You have status, she does not. She may love your company and your elevation, but I do not think that she is the wife for you.” Darcy’s eyes softened. “We will find worthy brides soon enough. Once that d— Emperor is taken care of, we will have time.”
“And what of Wickham?”
“What of Wickham?”
“Should we take action?”
Darcy shook his head. “Not yet. Our friends have his description, and the militia leader has promised to alert me at the first sign of trouble.”
“If he breaks the Bennets–”
“Then that will be my sin.”
“As you say.” Bingley took a breath. “I need to travel.”
“The Low Countries? I am sure the Crown could use an extra pair of eyes.”
“No, not right now. I need to rest from the game so I am fresh for later quarry.”
“I see. Oh, who is that?”
“It sounds like my sister’s footsteps. It is about time for supper. Will you join us?”
“Gladly.”