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Prologue

Posted on May 2, 2009

It was with mixed feelings that those gathered witnessed the wedding of Lord Michael Casterton to Miss Viola Stanton. Many looked upon it as a good match, it was true, but others frowned upon the disparity of their situations, and others still worried over the disparity of their affections. For whilst Lord Casterton was by all admired as a man of sense and education, a gentleman in every respect, possessed of a fine estate in Hertfordshire and a sizable fortune, his bride was regarded by those who knew her well as spoilt and unruly and by no means a fit match for the young Lord. But as is so often the way in cases such as these, love had blinded him to her faults; no consideration was given by him to her lack of fortune or connections, he was in a word besotted, and it was with great pride that he took her as his wife. As for the lady herself, she was indeed all that which her critics accused her of and more, for she was also artful and had felt no pangs of conscience when deceiving her future husband as to the depth of her own attachment. That he was rich and tolerably handsome were circumstances enough for her, and it was with great pride that she consented to be his wife.

That both looked forward to their future together can easily be imagined, but unfortunately for the young Baron it was with very different expectations as to the sources of their happiness that they embarked upon their marriage. For whilst Lord Casterton envisioned a life of connubial bliss spent together at his estate, the Lady Casterton, as she now was, thought of nothing but the balls and parties she would attend in Town, with or without her husband. It was not long before the truth of the matter came out, and by the time they celebrated their first anniversary the Lord and Lady Casterton were thoroughly disillusioned with one another. Another year passed and even the lively spirits of the Lord Casterton were no match for having his hopes so thoroughly disappointed, and those closest to him rued the day he had ever set eyes on the beautiful Miss Stanton. Fate, however, as was its want, intervened, and a circumstance arose which gave Lord Casterton hope; his wife was found to be with child and with surprisingly little fuss, given her nature, she provided Lord Casterton with a daughter.

Whether with affection, vexation or bemusement, many have already commented upon the special bond that often exists between fathers and their daughters and Lord Casterton and little Elizabeth were no different. As his wife's escapades gradually spiralled out of control, Lord Casterton devoted all his time to his daughter, delighted with her lively mind, doing all he could to foster her natural intelligence by treating her to an education almost as complete as the one he had received when he was a child.

Elizabeth flourished under her father's care and it was not often that they were apart. She had his dark eyes and hair and her youthful features already showed the hint of, if not true beauty, a certain loveliness that reminded her father of his own mother; a fact that eased his troubled mind given his wife's behaviour and the questions surrounding Elizabeth's conception . Not that it would have mattered, for he loved Elizabeth dearly and would always do so, no matter her true parentage.

As her mother had had very little to do with her daughter once she had been born, almost all credit for Elizabeth's upbringing went to her father and, though it reeked of pride, he couldn't help but be pleased with his success. Elizabeth was everything he hoped she'd be, and more. She was gentleness and laughter, intelligence and spirit. Too much spirit, perhaps, but it was tempered with good sense and a respect for others. He loved her sincerely as a young girl; he could not wait to meet the young woman she would one day become.

Chapter 1: The Night of the Meryton Assembly

Elizabeth gave her father one last chance to reconsider, "Are you sure you won't come with me Papa?"

"And spend the evening watching you young people frolic about when I could be spending it with a good book? I think not my dear," Lord Casterton replied, a smile in his eyes.

"Oh papa, you sound more and more like Mr Bennet every day," Elizabeth teased before bending to place a quick kiss on his cheek, "I shall see you later then."

"I hope you enjoy your evening my child," Lord Casterton replied before adding fondly, "And may I say that you look very lovely this evening."

"Thank you papa," Elizabeth replied before leaving the room, taking all the youth and joy with her.

"Give my regards to the Bennets for me," Lord Casterton called as an afterthought, smiling when Elizabeth called back that she would.

"Oh Jane, here you are!" Elizabeth exclaimed, finally making her way to her friend through the crowds of people swarming around the Meryton Assembly room.

"Hello Lizzy," Jane replied as they exchanged kisses, their hands clasped. The warmth of their greeting was in no way unusual for them, for they had known each other since girlhood and were as close as sisters.

"Good evening Jane," Mrs Burrows, Elizabeth's companion when her father did not accompany her, replied to Jane's greeting, "How are you this evening?"

The three ladies stood together sharing their news for a moment before Jane's mother, Mrs Bennet, bustled over to them and indecorously exclaimed, "They are come! At last they are come! Stand up straight Jane, shoulders back. A man could go a long time without seeing a figure like yours and you must make the most of it."

Sensing Jane's embarrassment, Elizabeth drew Mrs Bennet's attention to herself, "Who is come Mrs Bennet? Are we to have a new addition to our neighbourhood gathering?"

"Oh yes indeed! Have you not heard?"

Elizabeth replied that she had not and Mrs Bennet proceeded to explain, in the most excited tones, that a gentleman, a Mr Bingley with five thousand a year, had just taken residence at Netherfield Park and was about to make his first appearance.

"How exciting!" Elizabeth replied dramatically, earning herself a look of censure from Mrs Burrows who often cautioned her not to make fun of Mrs Bennet, even though she knew that the lady only brought it upon herself by being so ridiculous.

"Yes indeed, and what a fine thing for my girls, do you not think so Miss Casterton?"

"How so Mrs Bennet?" Elizabeth replied with a glance at Jane who, though outwardly composed, was obviously still embarrassed by her mother's antics.

"Why, because he is so eligible..."

"Ah, I see," Elizabeth replied, a twinkle in her eye, "You are thinking of his marrying one of them. And why not, for it is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife."

Both Jane and Mrs Burrows suppressed smiles at Elizabeth's witticism but Mrs Bennet merely looked confused. Luckily for her the aforementioned gentleman chose that moment to make his appearance with the rest of his party in tow.

Elizabeth was already facing the doorway and so did not have to embarrass herself, or the new arrivals, by twisting to look at them; the rest of those gathered, however, made no effort to disguise their interest. Two ladies, clearly very fashionable, and three gentlemen stood there but it was the third gentleman who drew her attention. Conscious that she was staring, Elizabeth tilted her head to listen to Mrs Bennet's whispered monologue;

"...Mr Bingley and his sisters, and a Mr Hurst, the eldest sister's husband. The tall gentleman is Mr Darcy, a friend from the north. Bingley's wealth is nothing compared to his, for he is rumoured to have ten thousand a year! Don't you think he is the most handsome man you have ever seen?"

Elizabeth secretly thought that he was indeed very handsome but replied instead, "I wonder whether he would be quite so handsome if he were not quite so rich."

Mrs Bennet either did not understand or chose to ignore her comment and Jane took the chance to lean closer to Elizabeth and whisper,

"They are very elegant, are they not Lizzy?" Jane asked, her eyes on the two ladies who looked unimpressed and disdainful.

"More pleased with themselves than with their present company, I fear," Elizabeth responded with a smile at Jane's innate goodness as she replied,

"I am sure that once we get to know them they shall be wonderful neighbours."

"Let us hope so," Elizabeth replied with a sideways glance at Mrs Burrows who was, whilst perhaps less harsh, as astute a judge of character as Elizabeth was.

Elizabeth turned her attention back to her companions but was unable to prevent her eyes from straying back to look at Mr Darcy once more. He was tall, strikingly so, with broad shoulders and an appearance of strength which made him seem almost intimidating. His hair was dark and with a slight curl and Elizabeth smiled to herself as she wondered what a man so obviously fastidious about his appearance, for he was in all ways perfectly attired, thought about such unruly locks. Her silent study was unexpectedly interrupted by Mrs Burrows' quiet observation,

"I daresay he is quite handsome."

"Yes, I suppose he is," Elizabeth admitted equally as quietly, "But we both know that appearances can be deceptive."

"Very true my dear," Mrs Burrows replied with a solemn smile, "Lamentably so."

"Jane," Elizabeth said a little while later, "if you will excuse me a moment, I must go and..."

"Oh no Lizzy, please do not go," Jane pleaded, seeing that Sir William Lucas was at that very moment leading Mr Bingley towards them, "Please do not leave me with Mama."

"Oh, look Jane! They are coming over; smile, Jane, smile," Mrs Bennet whispered a tad frantically and Elizabeth could not in all goodness bring herself to abandon Jane at such a moment.

"Mrs Bennet," Sir William intoned in his jovial manner, "Mr Bingley has expressed a desire to become acquainted with you and your daughters."

"You are very kind sir," Mrs Bennet simpered, dropping the gentleman, who Elizabeth now saw to be about five and twenty, a deep curtsey.

"This is my eldest daughter, Jane," Mrs Bennet went on as Jane smiled shyly at Mr Bingley. Elizabeth noted, much to her amused pleasure, that the gentleman seemed not to pay much attention to the rest of Mrs Bennet's introduction as he continued to look at Jane, "And over there is Mary, and my two youngest, Kitty and Lydia you see there dancing."

"I am honoured to meet you Miss Bennet," Mr Bingley said, smiling at Jane with obvious and sincere delight.

"And I you," Jane replied in her gracious way, although Elizabeth could tell that her friend was flattered by the attention.

"Will you not introduce me to your friends?" Mr Bingley asked, looking at Elizabeth and Mrs Burrows.

"Oh! I'm sorry, I..." Jane blushed and then, recovering herself, quietly handled the introductions,

"This is Mrs Burrows, and my good friend Miss Casterton."

Elizabeth curtseyed and then playfully enquired, "Do you like to dance Mr Bingley? I hope so, for as you can see we here all take great enjoyment in it."

"There is nothing I love better, Miss Casterton, I assure you," he replied happily before turning to Jane with an expression of hopefulness as he enquired, "If you are not otherwise engaged Miss Bennet, may I be so bold as to claim the next two dances?"

Jane replied that she was not otherwise engaged and all would have been settled most satisfactorily had not Mrs Bennet embarrassed both Jane and Mr Bingley with her effusive thanks for the compliment he bestowed on them. Jane bore it well, as she always did, but Elizabeth, burning with shame on behalf of her friend and seeking to distract him, smiled at Mr Bingley and asked,

"As Jane was so good as to introduce her friends to you Mr Bingley, will you not also do the same for us? I see your friend is hovering behind you," she looked pointedly over his shoulder at Mr Darcy, who frowned at being so singled out. Mr Bingley, perhaps used to his friend's looks of disapprobation, paid him no heed and happily replied,

"Oh, I beg your pardon. Mrs Bennet, ladies, may I present my friend, Mr Darcy?"

They all curtsey as Elizabeth looked to see how Mr Darcy bore the introduction that she had effectively forced upon him. Mrs Bennet, not satisfied with Mr Bingley's attention to Jane when there was a possibility of Mr Darcy's as well, was at her tactless best as she pointedly asked,

"I hope you have come here as eager to dance as your friend has?"

Mr Darcy's brow darkened even more, if that were at all possible, as he replied, "Thank you, madam. I rarely dance."

Elizabeth arched her brow at the implied insult to her friend, her expression so clearly unimpressed that Mrs Burrows felt compelled to lay a restraining hand on her arm, less Elizabeth say something intemperate. Fortunately for Mr Darcy the music was then struck up and, with a stiff formal bow, he quickly made his escape as Mr Bingley led Jane to join the other couples. Mrs Bennet, as full of indignation on Jane's behalf as Elizabeth herself was, loudly exclaimed,

"Well! Did you ever meet such a proud disagreeable man!"

Elizabeth thought about cautioning Mrs Bennet that she would be overheard by the gentleman in question but knew it was a helpless endeavour and so resigned herself to more of Mrs Bennet's expulsions,

"And his friend disposed to be so agreeable and everything charming. Who is he to think himself so far above his company?"

Who indeed, Elizabeth thought inwardly even as she pointed out, "The very rich can afford to give offence wherever they go. We need not care for his good opinion."

"No, indeed!" Mrs Bennet readily agreed and Elizabeth, for the sake of her own amusement, could not resist suggesting,

"Perhaps he is not so very handsome after all?"

"No, indeed! Quite ill-favoured." Mrs Bennet replied uncharitably with a dismissive sniff before turning her attention to Jane and her partner and adding, "And he is certainly nothing at all to Mr Bingley!"

Barely able to keep her countenance, Elizabeth hastily bid Mrs Bennet a good evening and verily dragged poor Mrs Burrows away. Once she was sure they were out of earshot Elizabeth's composure gave way to amusement and she laughed merrily.

"Elizabeth," Mrs Burrows cautioned when Elizabeth had caught her breath, "You must not laugh so. It really is quite rude."

"I know," Elizabeth replied honestly, "But I must laugh at her for otherwise I must cry at poor Jane's misfortune at having such a henwit as a mother."

"Miss Elizabeth Casterton," Mrs Burrows said sternly, "You really must..."

"Hold my tongue?" Elizabeth replied a trifle sharply, "Then what must she do Emily; have it cut out all together?"

Elizabeth was instantly ashamed and her expression was contrite as she said, "I apologise; that was unforgivably rude of me Emily. Please forgive me."

"There is no harm done to myself my dear," her companion replied, "But you know it does not become you to speak so of others."

Elizabeth sighed and nodded, "I know, you are right. I just cannot bear to see Jane so humiliated Emily! She is truly the best creature I have ever known, and to have to suffer such a mother!"

"And yet, she is still her mother," Mrs Burrows pointed out, "and Jane loves her despite her faults."

Elizabeth smiled at that, "Indeed, for whom does Jane not love? She sees the good in everyone Emily, much to my never-ceasing amazement."

They lapsed into silence, watching the interaction now taking place between Mrs Bennet and another of their neighbours, the topic of their conversation clear from Mrs Bennet's mannerisms and her frequent glances at Jane and her partner.

Elizabeth sighed, her usually lively spirits falling unexpectedly into melancholy as she reflected, "If only one could choose one's mother Emily, it would solve so many problems."

Mrs Burrows was aware that Elizabeth was no longer merely talking about Mrs Bennet and patted the young woman's arm with understanding.

Later on in the evening Elizabeth was obliged, due to the scarcity of partners, to take a seat during one of the sets and she had willingly released Mrs Burrows to go and talk to one of their mutual acquaintances. She was quite happily engaged in her observation of her neighbours, having always delighted in studying characters since she was a girl, when she heard Mr Bingley's now familiar voice not a long way off.

"Come, Darcy, I must have you dance!" This elicited no response from his partner so he said again, "I must. I hate to see you standing about in this stupid manner! You had much better dance!"

Elizabeth, unashamed at such shameless eavesdropping, awaited the reply with interest and it did not disappoint the impression she had already formed of that gentleman.

"I certainly shall not," Mr Darcy said coldly, "At an assembly such as this? It would be insupportable."

There was a pause in which Elizabeth strove to keep her face straight before he pointed out, "Your sisters are engaged and you know it would be a punishment for me to stand up with any other woman."

"Good God, Darcy!" Mr Bingley exclaimed, ever rising in Elizabeth's estimation of him, "I wouldn't be as fastidious as you are for a kingdom! Upon my honour, I never met so many pleasant girls in my life! Several of them uncommonly pretty."

This last was said quietly but his friend obviously understood the implication and condescended to at least partially agree.

"You have been dancing with the only handsome girl in the room."

He is not blind then, Elizabeth thought meanly, just rude.

"Darcy, she is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld," Bingley replied and Elizabeth flushed with pleasure at the compliment to her friend. She almost startled a moment later when she heard him say,

"Look, look! There is her friend. She's very pretty too, and I daresay very agreeable."

Elizabeth kept her eyes ahead of her as Mr Darcy turned to look at her and pretended not to be listening even as she heard him say,

"She is tolerable, I suppose, but not handsome enough to tempt me." He turned away and added conceitedly, "I'm in no humour to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men Bingley. Go back to your partner. Enjoy her smiles. You are wasting your time on me."

Elizabeth smiled down at her hands; she delighted in anything ridiculous and could not wait to share this latest development with her beloved father, who would be as diverted by Mr Darcy and his arrogance as she. For a moment she marvelled at how a man like Mr Darcy, with little to recommend him besides his wealth, could think himself so above his company when a man like her father, above him in both consequence and character, could be so amiable and kind to everyone, regardless of their situation. Soon though the desire to share what she had overheard with another became too strong and she rose, looking about herself for her friend Charlotte Lucas. That Mr Darcy saw her, and was startled to find her sitting so close to him, was obvious, but she paid him no heed and congratulated herself on containing her smile until she had turned away from him. If he overheard her and Charlotte's laughter at his expense, Elizabeth decided, it was the least he deserved for being so unforgivably proud.

Elizabeth swept into her father's library and startled him out of his solitary reverie,

"Oh Papa, you have missed the most diverting evening!"

"Indeed?" Lord Casterton replied, vastly amused by what he assumed was a gross exaggeration on his daughters part.

"Oh yes, for we have a new neighbour," Elizabeth declared dramatically, sinking into the chair across from him in front of the fire. Many of the servants had already been dismissed for the night and they were left to themselves, much as they had been since Elizabeth was born but especially so since Elizabeth's mother's death two years earlier.

"Really? I had heard something about Netherfield being taken but dismissed it as idle gossip. Well my dear, tell me more," he told his daughter as he laid aside his book.

"And indulge in idle gossip father? Surely not!" Elizabeth replied with an impertinent smile before she relented and began her tale, "Well, his name is Mr Bingley and he is about five and twenty with fair hair and the most cheerful demeanour I have ever had the pleasure of encountering."

"Really?" Lord Casterton asked, intrigued.

"Quite so papa; he was delighted with everything and everyone and one cannot help but smile when you are around him."

"Mmm, he sounds far too cheerful to me," Lord Casterton remarked, although not unkindly.

"He is perhaps a little too good for us, but I daresay that Jane was very pleased with him."

"Ah," Lord Casterton replied with sudden understanding, "Now I see why you like him so much; he had the good sense to like your friend and so you cannot help but think well of him."

Elizabeth only smiled.

"Well, what else happened my dear? For as fascinating as Mr Bingley sounds, I am not quite diverted yet."

"Well, he brought with him his two sisters, a Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst, but they are little deserving of our consideration. They looked down their noses at us all the entire time papa; we are obviously not good enough for them."

"Well more fool them," Lord Casterton replied good naturedly before he cautioned, "But you must not let them upset you my dear; you are better than that I hope."

"Yes papa," Elizabeth replied, all the more ashamed of her earlier outburst at Mrs Bennet's expense.

She tried so hard to live up to her father's expectations of her and with every lapse she felt like she had betrayed his love and faith in her.

"Go on," her father urged her, bringing her out of her reflective mood.

"Where was I? Oh yes; well, beside his sisters he also brought his friend with him, a Mr Darcy from the north who, Mrs Bennet helpfully informed me, has ten thousand a year."

"Now that is diverting," Lord Casterton teased, a twinkle in his eye.

"Oh papa, you have no idea," Elizabeth replied with a happy laugh and she related the conversation she had heard to him, leaving nothing out. Their laughter rang out into the hallway and it was several moments before she could catch her breath.

"Have you ever heard anything so ridiculous?" Elizabeth asked breathlessly, wiping her eyes.

"Not for a good many years," Lord Casterton replied with a chuckle, "And even then I don't think I've ever heard such nonsense so properly delivered. Not tolerable enough indeed! The man must be blind."

Elizabeth smiled at such fatherly loyalty but she had no illusions; she had never been more than passably attractive and had reconciled herself to it long ago.

"It was very bad of him to say such a thing though," Lord Casterton remarked, "And where he could be easily overheard. He must have been in a foul mood."

"Hmm, either that or his is just proud and disagreeable," Elizabeth replied, her mind already made up on the matter.

"We shall see," her father replied before saying, "But off to bed with you now Lizzy; it is late and you must be tired. I will see you in the morning."

"Good night papa," Elizabeth whispered with a kiss to his cheek before she drifted upstairs to bed.

Chapter 2

Posted on May 5, 2009

"Papa!" Elizabeth exclaimed in surprise, seeing her father enter the breakfast room the following morning, "You are up very early this morning."

"Good morning to you too Lizzy," her father teased in reply as Elizabeth jumped up to pour him a cup of coffee.

"You know that is not what I meant," Elizabeth reprimanded lightly, "I was not implying that it is not nice to see you so early, only that it is not at all usual."

"I know," he assured her with a smile and pat to her arm as she placed his coffee in front of him.

"Why are you up so early?" Elizabeth enquired once she'd returned to her seat.

"I am to call upon Mr Bingley today Elizabeth. I have been remiss in not doing so before now, but I thought I would call in to see Thomas before I do so," he explained, smiling at the way Elizabeth's face lit up.

"Would you mind very much if I accompanied you to the Bennet's father?" She asked, "You could leave me there and collect me once you have paid your call on Mr Bingley."

"Very well my dear," he replied fairly, "I know you must be understandably eager to discuss your impressions of last evening with your darling Jane." He smiled knowingly before adding, "Or should I say your impressions of a certain gentleman?"

Elizabeth laughed, "You delight in teasing me father, but I shall not deny it; I am eager to know what Jane thinks."

"Let us go then, so that I may have at least an hour with Thomas before I must leave for Netherfield."

Elizabeth ran to put on her pelisse and bonnet and soon the pair were on their way to Longbourn. It was not far, barely a mile, and it was not uncommon for Elizabeth to go on foot, but today they took the carriage and were greeted at the door by the very two people they had expressly come to see, Jane and Mr Bennet. The two men quickly made their way to the library before Mrs Bennet could claim Lord Casterton's company for her own, and Elizabeth did the same with Jane, drawing her outside for a walk around the garden.

"Alone at last," she said once they were far enough from the house, "I had not thought I would get the chance to talk to you today but papa was kind enough to let me accompany him here before he goes on to Netherfield."

"Netherfield," Jane repeated with surprise, a flush creeping onto her cheeks which Elizabeth refrained from commenting upon; for the moment at least.

"Yes; he is to call upon Mr Bingley as he had not the chance to do so before now."

"I am sure Mr Bingley will be pleased to make his acquaintance," Jane replied kindly.

Elizabeth smiled as she teased, "And I am sure that Mr Bingley was very pleased to make your acquaintance Jane."

"Oh no Lizzy," Jane tried to deny, "I am sure he was just being friendly."

"Hmm," Elizabeth replied unconvinced before she pointedly asked, "Tell me what you think of him Jane; do you like him? I confess that I do but I wish to hear your opinion."

Jane sighed and smiled softly as she replied, "He is just what a young man ought to be Lizzy. Sensible, lively, and I never saw such happy manners!"

Elizabeth nodded and added, "Handsome too, which a young man ought to be if he possibly can." Jane was silent although her blushing cheeks betrayed her once more. Elizabeth went on. "He seems to like you very much, which shows good judgement. I give you leave to like him Jane," Elizabeth concluded merrily, "You have liked many a stupider person."

"Dear Lizzy!" Jane exclaimed laughingly and they smiled at one another and walked on.

"He could be happier in his choice of sisters and friends, although I suppose the sisters he cannot help." Elizabeth said after a moment.

"Did you not like them?" Jane asked, sounding as though the idea of disliking someone was almost unthinkable.

"Not at all," Elizabeth decidedly replied, "Their manners are quite different from his."

"At first, perhaps," Jane agreed slowly, "but after a while they were pleasing. Miss Bingley told me that she is to keep house for her brother and I am sure they will be very charming neighbours."

Elizabeth remembered her saying as much last night and knowing Jane's nature knew it was pointless to argue. She couldn't help but tease though, "One of them more than the others maybe."

"No, Lizzy, I'm sure you're wrong." Jane replied with a charming combination of blush and frown. "I am sure that even Mr Darcy may improve on closer acquaintance."

Elizabeth stopped in her tracks and turned to Jane with theatrical horror, "What, will he be in humour to consider young ladies who are slighted by other men? Never!"

She straightened her features into a passable impression of Mr Darcy's haughty demeanour and imitated his fateful words, "She is tolerable, I suppose, but not handsome enough to tempt 'me'."

She dissolved into laughter but Jane looked more distressed than amused as she replied, "It was very wrong of him to speak so."

"Indeed it was!" Elizabeth agreed cheerfully, "Capital offence!"

"Oh, look!" Jane said suddenly, "Charlotte is come."

Elizabeth looked up and smiled to see another of her best friends coming towards them. She hurried across the lawn to greet her.

"Charlotte!"

"Hello Lizzy," Charlotte replied once Elizabeth had reached her. "My father is to give a party at Lucas Lodge and you are all invited," she said by way of explanation, smiling as she looked between Elizabeth and Jane.

"Oh, mama will be delighted," Jane replied and they all went inside to share the news with the rest of the Bennet family. They had not long been sat together in the parlour when Elizabeth's father came to bid them all a good day, followed by a quick goodbye as he departed for Netherfield.

"So he is going to call on Mr Bingley then?" Mrs Bennet asked, eyeing Elizabeth with suspicion.

Elizabeth could guess where Mrs Bennet's thoughts tended and, not wishing to provoke a scene, quickly explained, "Yes indeed, for he has not yet had the chance to do so and feels obliged to welcome Mr Bingley to the neighbourhood. He would do the same for anyone, I'm sure."

Mrs Bennet was mollified and the peace was maintained; at least, what passed for peace at Longbourn was maintained.

"Yes Rossiter, what is it?"

Netherfield's butler bowed before he replied, "Lord Casterton is here to see you sir."

Mr Bingley blinked in surprise before he exclaimed, "Lord Casterton, did you say?"

"Indeed sir," Rossiter replied, coming forward and stretching out his hand, "His card."

"Well I say," Bingley muttered, before recovering his manners and exclaiming, "Well bring him in then; we mustn't keep him waiting."

Rossiter bowed and left and Bingley glanced at Darcy who was sat in the corner of Bingley's study, hiding from that gentleman's sister.

"Did you hear that Darcy? Lord Casterton is here to see me."

"Who," Darcy replied calmly, "is Lord Casterton?"

"I have no idea," Bingley replied cheerily, "But I'll be glad to meet him all the same."

"You're always glad to meet everyone Bingley," Darcy pointed out with a smile but he pointedly laid aside his book, his own curiosity piqued.

"True," Bingley admitted good-naturedly a moment before the door was opened and Rossiter walked in, "Lord Casterton, sir."

Lord Casterton bit back a smile at the other two men's silent perusal of his person before striding forward, his hand outstretched.

"You must be Mr Bingley; it is a pleasure to finally meet you."

Bingley shook the proffered hand as he repeated, "Finally?"

"Indeed," Lord Casterton replied, a glint in his eye, "For I have heard so much about you."

Bingley looked surprised and then perplexed, "May I enquire as to the source of your information my lord?"

"You may," Lord Casterton replied with a smile as he explained, "My daughter had the pleasure of making your acquaintance last night at the assembly."

"Of course," Bingley replied, feeling like a simpleton, "Miss Casterton is your daughter; I should have known."

"Yes, well, she was very pleased with you and I simply had to come here and see what all the fuss was about," Lord Casterton joked good-naturedly, smiling inwardly as Bingley struggled to formulate a suitable response.

"Oh, well, I am honoured that Miss Casterton was so, ummm..."

Lord Casterton took pity on the poor young man; "Do not worry yourself sir; I was only making sport with you. Hearing about you from Elizabeth merely reminded me that it was high time I came and introduced myself to you, given that you have been here almost a sennight."

Bingley smiled with relief and, with his ease restored, replied, "I assure you my lord that your daughter made an equally good impression on me; she is a charming young lady."

Lord Casterton accepted the compliment, which he knew to be sincere from the young man's earnest smile, with a gracious bow of his head. It was only then that he realised that he had not yet been introduced to the other occupant of the room. He looked pointedly between said gentleman and Mr Bingley and the action snapped the latter to attention.

"Oh! Do forgive me; I have neglected to introduce my friend. I did the same thing last night with Miss Bennet and your daughter," he added with a laugh.

"I do hope that wasn't a conscious decision Mr Bingley," Lord Casterton remarked wryly, noting the other man's slight smile at his quip, even if it were at his expense.

"Oh no, not at all," Bingley replied happily, walking Lord Casterton to where Darcy stood, "Lord Casterton, may I introduce my good friend, Mr Darcy."

The two men shook hands and Lord Casterton couldn't help but comment, "Elizabeth also had quite a bit to say about you sir."

"I don't doubt it," Darcy replied, now utterly convinced that Miss Casterton had overheard his ill-judged comments and, what was worse, had shared them with her father.

Something sparked in Lord Casterton eyes but he did not pursue the subject; instead, he turned to Bingley and asked, "So, how do you like Hertfordshire so far sir?"

As Bingley and Lord Casterton settled down for a conversation, Darcy got the impression that he had been let off lightly; by both father and daughter.

"Oh, that looks like papa now," Elizabeth noted as a carriage pulled into Longbourn's drive, turning back to her companions with what she hoped was a sincere smile, "I'm afraid our morning together is over."

Mrs Bennet pressed her to invite her father in for refreshment but Elizabeth declined the characteristically over-zealous invitation, citing estate business that her father had to attend at home. She took leave of the Bennet girls and their mother with good grace before Jane escorted her to the door and her waiting father where the two girls exchanged a much more cordial and heartfelt farewell.

"Well father," Elizabeth said once they were underway, "what did you make of Mr Bingley?"

"He and Jane could be twins, my dear," Lord Casterton replied with a twinkle in his eye as Elizabeth laughed at his reply.

"Indeed they could be, and I daresay they shall be very happy together."

Lord Casterton quirked his brow at that and dryly commented, "They met yesterday Lizzy."

"And what of it father?" Elizabeth replied with an impertinent smile, "One whole evening spent in each other's company is more than enough time for them to have fallen madly in love."

Lord Casterton chuckled to himself, knowing that Elizabeth was only teasing and that she did not really believe such nonsense. He also knew that she would not encourage Jane to marry Mr Bingley for the sake of making a good match, a conviction confirmed by her next comment,

"I do hope that Jane and Mr Bingley have the opportunity to get to know one another away from the prying eyes and wagging tongue of her mother though; Mr Bingley could so easily get the wrong impression."

"Do not fret my dear," Lord Casterton replied with a pat to her hand, "Any man who cannot see past Mrs Bennet's eccentricities to Jane's virtues is a fool and does not deserve her."

"I heartily agree with you father," Elizabeth replied with a soft smile, "but I think we may be biased."

"Perhaps so," Lord Casterton agreed just as their carriage pulled up in front of the house.

"Did you happen to see any of Mr Bingley's guests whilst you were at Netherfield papa?" Elizabeth asked as they made their way inside, handing their things to the waiting footman.

"I had the good fortune of being introduced to Mr Darcy, Lizzy," Lord Casterton replied with a hint of mischief, "And you may congratulate me for not berating him over his slight of you, as tempted as I was to do so."

"Oh papa," Elizabeth replied with an affectionate smile, "I do not need you to berate him for me; I am more than capable of doing that myself."

"Yes," Lord Casterton replied with a slightly disapproving look, "I am sure you are. Do not be too harsh on him though my dear; I found him to be quite an agreeable gentleman once he became more comfortable in my presence."

"Indeed?" Elizabeth asked, intrigued. She had been ready to write Mr Darcy off as proud and disagreeable following last evening but perhaps there was more to him than met the eye.

"Quite so; I believe he is merely uncomfortable in social situations. But then again," Lord Casterton teasingly conceded with a slight smile, "his behaviour may just have been in deference to my lofty rank."

Elizabeth laughed at this piece of nonsense from her father before following him to the library where they spent the next few hours in quiet companionship.

"I daresay that Hertfordshire is turning out to be a wonderful place," Bingley exclaimed jovially as he and Darcy returned from a ride and entered the drawing room where the others were all assembled,

"Good riding country, fair weather, wonderful society..."

"Wonderful society?" Caroline Bingley repeated disdainfully, "Whatever do you mean Charles? I hardly know how we shall survive here amongst such people."

Darcy frowned slightly and turned to the window, unwilling to have to listen to yet more of Caroline's ill-natured comments. That she was simply voicing his own opinions in a slightly less refined way was completely lost on him as he heard Charles argue,

"We shall survive very well Caroline. The Bennet's are lovely people, as are the Lucas's and Lord Casterton seemed..."

"Lord Casterton?" Caroline interrupted again, sharing a quick look with her sister, "Who is Lord Casterton?"

"He called this morning before you were up. Charming fellow, wouldn't you say Darcy?"

"Quite," Darcy replied turning from the window and smiling inwardly at Caroline's stunned expression. He himself had been surprised to find such a person living so close to Netherfield and wondered why they had not heard anything of Lord Casterton before now.

"We met his daughter last night Caroline; do you remember? Miss Casterton? Miss Bennet's friend?" Bingley prompted with a slightly dreamy smile that had Darcy frowning all the more.

"Why did you not say something Charles?!" Caroline demanded a little fretfully, recalling how she had assumed Miss Casterton was just one of the locals and had treated her accordingly, "If I had known I would have made much more of an effort to become acquainted with her."

"Well you will see her again next week Caroline," Bingley replied, referring to the Lucas's upcoming party, "so there really is no reason to be so upset."

Darcy knew exactly what Caroline was upset about even if Bingley, in his goodness, did not; Miss Casterton had suddenly become a lady of some consequence and Caroline was undoubtedly aware that she had inadvertently insulted someone whose favour she would usually have courted. Darcy himself had made a similar mistake and intended to amend his behaviour towards Miss Casterton when they next met, without going to the extremes that he knew Caroline Bingley would resort to, of course.

Chapter 3

Walking into the Lucas's parlour on her father's arm, Elizabeth absently returned the greetings and smiles of their neighbours as her eyes sought out her friend. She found Jane stood off to one side with Mr Bingley, engaged in quiet conversation, a light blush suffusing her cheeks. Elizabeth looked up at her father, who had also taken note of the situation, and they shared a meaningful smile. She raised herself up on her toes and whispered,

"What did I tell you father; one evening was more than enough time."

Her father rolled his eyes and playfully chided, "Either talk sense or be off with you my dear."

"I had better be off then," Elizabeth replied with a teasing smile as she disentangled her arm from his, "for what sense is there to be found when ladies talk of love?"

"None whatsoever," her father agreed with a chuckle. He let her go and wandered over to join Mr Bennet and a few other neighbourhood gentlemen.

Elizabeth weaved her way through her gathered acquaintances, unaware of a pair of eyes watching her as she went, until she was stopped by Miss Bingley and her sister. The two ladies curtseyed to her and Elizabeth's eyes sparkled with merriment when they greeted her with excessive courtesy.

"Why Miss Casterton, it is wonderful to see you again," Miss Bingley simpered whilst her sister just nodded dumbly, "I so wished to be able to better make you acquaintance at the assembly, but with Charles being new to the neighbourhood we were quite overwhelmed by all the introductions. I hope you will forgive us."

Elizabeth's brows rose sceptically at the speech as she distinctly remembered the Bingley sisters speaking to no-one outside their party for most of the night. Obviously her father's visit had come as something of a shock to them, and this display of false friendship was the result; Elizabeth had little time for it however and after exchanging as few words as possible with the ladies, went on her way once more. She finally reached her original destination, gently interrupting Jane and Mr Bingley's conversation with her quiet greeting,

"Good evening Jane, good evening Mr Bingley."

"Oh, Lizzy!" Jane replied with a blush. She recovered soon enough and she and Elizabeth embraced lightly, giving Mr Bingley just enough time to replace his look of disappointment at the interruption with one of polite greeting.

"Are you still happy with your choice to reside here in Hertfordshire sir?" Elizabeth asked with a smile.

"Oh yes, indeed, Miss Casterton," Bingley agreed with a blushing smile and a slight glance at Jane as he added, "The people here are charming and I find the country much to my liking."

"I am glad to hear it," Elizabeth teased with an impertinent smile, "I myself am very fond of our fields and hills and would have taken great offence had you not been sufficiently enamoured with them."

"Dear Lizzy," Jane chided with a light laugh, "no one could ever love the countryside like you do."

"Quite true," Elizabeth agreed, turning to Mr Bingley as she explained for his benefit, "for Jane knows you see that I would live out of doors if I had the chance, but I am told that it is not quite the done thing."

"No," Bingley agreed with a chuckle, "as much as I can understand the notion."

"I suppose staying indoors does have its benefits," Elizabeth intoned after a moment with an air of consideration and more than a hint of mischief, "and it is much more conducive to certain kinds of activities."

"Such as?" A voice inquired from over Elizabeth's shoulder, making her jump slightly. She turned to find Mr Darcy regarding her closely. He had been telling himself to simply go and speak to her and had finally managed to succeed.

"Courtship," Elizabeth replied succinctly, her eyes dancing with animation as she awaited his response, eager as she was to engage this intriguing man in verbal repartee. She had been surprised by her father's report of him and wished to further make him out.

"Courtship?" Darcy repeated, one brow raised in question. Elizabeth nodded and smiled slightly wider. "And what is it about courtship in particular Miss Casterton that you find it unsuitable to the out of doors?"

"There is too high a risk of solitude," Elizabeth replied with a twinkle in her eye. She could see he did not take her meaning and so elaborated, "When out of doors there is more opportunity for a couple to be alone together than when indoors."

"And the chance to be alone is not conducive to courtship?" Mr Darcy challenged, more intrigued than confused by her supposition.

"When the two people are well matched and share a fine, stout and healthy sort of love then solitude is indeed well suited to their needs," Elizabeth conceded with a slight smile "but when they share only a slight, thin sort of inclination, I am convinced that one afternoon spent alone in each other's company would be enough to starve it away entirely. And," Elizabeth finished with a flourish, "one is less likely to be able to spend time alone indoors than out."

Before Darcy, Jane or Bingley could reply and argue against such an idea they were joined by Colonel Forster and his young wife and Jane introduced them to Elizabeth whom they had not yet met.

"Are you pleased with Hertfordshire, Colonel Forster?" Elizabeth inquired once she'd accepted the Colonel's words of kindness for her father who he had met earlier in the evening.

"Very much, Miss Casterton, and especially so this evening. A regiment of infantry doesn't find a ready welcome everywhere."

"I am sure your officers will be very well pleased with Meryton," Bingley noted cheerfully, "I am new to the area myself and am already convinced I never want to leave again!"

Jane blushed and smiled to herself, Elizabeth smiled on behalf of her friend and Darcy frowned at Bingley, wondering how the man could be so damned pleased with everyone and everything. As they stood there was suddenly a loud laugh from the far corner and they turned to observe Lydia and Kitty Bennet flirting with the officers.

"Denny and Sanderson seem well pleased already!" Mrs Forster noted with a girlish laugh, clearly seeing nothing wrong with the behaviour of the younger Bennet girls. Wishing to distract attention away from Jane's younger sisters Elizabeth turned to the Colonel and jokingly enquired,

"Are you in Meryton to subdue the discontented populace, sir, or to defend Hertfordshire against the French?"

"Neither, ma'am," Colonel Forster replied with a gruff laugh, "We hope to winter peacefully at Meryton. My soldiers are in great need of training and my officers in ever great need of society."

"When you are settled, I hope you will give a ball," Elizabeth said with an inward smile, aware that she was beginning to sound like Lydia in her desire to avoid Lydia being heard by Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy.

"Oh, yes, my dear, do!" His lady pleaded and the Colonel asked, "Would a ball be well received?"

"I believe I can say with all confidence that a ball would be very well received Colonel," Elizabeth replied with a smile, "for besides the amusement it would provide, it would also offer us all a perfect opportunity to become better acquainted with yourself and your officers."

As the Colonel turned to discuss the possibility with Jane and Mr Bingley, Elizabeth allowed her mind and eyes to wander. She smiled as she saw her father conversing somewhat heatedly with Mr Bennet, wondering what they were debating this time and determining to ask him about it later. She rolled her eyes at the Bingley sisters, sat with their heads together and casting disparaging looks about the room. She frowned as Lydia Bennet simpered and flirted with two officers at once and once again marvelled at her being related in any way to Jane. It was only as she returned her attention to the conversation going on about her that she became aware of Mr Darcy's quiet observation of her; indeed, she had a sudden suspicion that he had been watching her this entire time and couldn't help but wonder what he meant by it. She decided to comment on it.

"I wonder what you mean, Mr Darcy," she began quietly so as to only be heard by the gentleman himself, "by watching me so very closely? Do you mean to disconcert me with your censorious stare or do I simply have something on my face?"

"Neither, I assure you," Mr Darcy replied after a moment of surprised silence, at being caught looking, Elizabeth wrongly supposed.

"Then you do not deny you were watching me?" Elizabeth challenged, knowing she was being very forward.

"I do not, although I confess that at the time I was unaware of my actions."

Elizabeth laughed merrily, vastly pleased by this honest reply, "How terribly unflattering, sir! That your attention was only the result of inattention! I see I shall have no trouble keeping my vanity in check with you for company Mr Darcy."

Darcy smiled slightly and inclined his head, inordinately pleased to have made Miss Casterton laugh, even if her supposition was entirely wrong. That he was lost in her fine eyes he would not have admitted for the world.

"Did you not think, Mr Darcy, that I expressed myself uncommonly well just now, when I was teasing Colonel Forster to give us a ball at Meryton?" Elizabeth asked a moment later, convinced he had been listening.

"With great energy," Darcy conceded before adding with a dash of playfulness, "but it is a subject which always makes a lady energetic."

"You are severe on us," Elizabeth chided with a laugh even as she agreed, "you are correct, but still, you are very severe."

"Very severe on whom?" Lord Casterton asked, looking between the two of them. He had seen them talking from across the room and wondered at the way Darcy watched his daughter.

"Ladies," Elizabeth replied with a smile, "We were discussing the possibility of Colonel Forster hosting a ball and Mr Darcy observed that ladies often tend to become overexcited at such a prospect, what with our flighty dispositions and uncertain constitutions."

Lord Casterton laughed; Darcy was staring at his daughter with incredulity, obviously torn between defending himself and disputing the truth of Elizabeth's words.

"I suspect my dear that in this instance you are the severe one," he commented with a knowing look, "and that you are crediting poor Mr Darcy with opinions that are not his own."

"I do not know whether they are Mr Darcy's opinions, in truth," Elizabeth admitted with a glint in her eye, "only that they are the prevailing opinions of men such as Mr Darcy."

"Of men of sense and education?" Lord Casterton queried, leaving Darcy out of the repartee for the moment.

"No, of men quite the opposite;" Elizabeth replied and Darcy stiffened at the implied insult even before she added, "men of ten thousand a year for whom it is a punishment to stand up with any woman outside their immediate acquaintance, and who do not condescend to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men."

As Elizabeth spoke Lord Casterton bowed his head to hide the smile that threatened to emerge, his sense of humour warring with his sense of propriety. Part of him knew that he should rebuke Elizabeth for her rudeness and make her apologise, but the greater part of him couldn't help but admire how she had so ably berated Mr Darcy for his slight of her, just as she had said she would.

Darcy watched as Elizabeth curtseyed and walked away, leaving him with her father who still looked like he was trying not to smile.

"Well," Lord Casterton eventually said, "I would apologise for that but..."

"But I deserved it for being so rude to her at the assembly?" Darcy guessed, one brow raised, torn between affront and admiration.

Lord Casterton smiled as the young man before him rose yet another step in his estimation. "I did try and tell her not to be too hard on you, but Elizabeth will have her way."

"It was perhaps the least that I deserved," Darcy conceded, knowing he had been very rude, and Lord Casterton accepted the implied apology with a brief nod.

"I hope you and Mr Bingley will join us for dinner next week," Lord Casterton noted, referring to the invitation he had issued earlier, "I would wish for a chance to know you both better, and I daresay it would be fun to watch you and Elizabeth thrash it out over the fish course," he added with a smile that instantly reminded Darcy of his daughter.

"I cannot speak for Bingley of course," Darcy replied, "but I happily accept the invitation on my own behalf."

"Marvellous!" Lord Casterton intoned briskly, "Now if you will excuse me, Thomas and I have an argument we need to finish."

With that Darcy was left alone to watch and admire as Elizabeth took her turn at the pianoforte, wondering what it was about this lady that had him so enraptured. Though he had admitted to himself that she was much more beautiful than he had initially allowed her to be, he was not a man to place much weight on appearance alone. That she was clever was also clear, but there were women he knew who possessed even more intelligence and yet at this moment seemed simpletons in comparisons. What was it that...? His musings were interrupted by the arrival of Sir William Lucas at his side, drawing his attention to the dancing that Darcy had not even noticed had commenced.

"What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished societies."

"Certainly, sir," Darcy agreed with an inner groan at such nonsense, "and yet it also has the advantage of being in vogue amongst the less polished societies of the world too."

"Oh?" Sir William queried, clearly confused.

"Every savage can dance," Darcy pointed out with a flash of sardonic humour that was completely lost on his partner.

"Oh, yes, quite. And do you yourself dance often sir?"

"It is a compliment which I never pay to any place, if I can avoid it." Darcy replied bluntly, quickly losing patience with the gentleman. He did not notice until too late that Sir William had noticed Elizabeth walking by them and could not stop the gentleman exclaiming,

"My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing?" He took hold of her hand and drew her forward and Darcy suppressed a smile at her expression at being so handled. "Mr. Darcy, you must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner. You cannot refuse to dance, I am sure, when so much beauty is before you."

"Indeed," Elizabeth interrupted, pulling her hand away decidedly, "he could and he would if he so wished to Sir William, but," she added with more composure and a slight smile, "Mr Darcy's refusal is not necessary in this instance as I have not the least intention of dancing."

"Oh come now Miss Eliza," Sir William began but Elizabeth prevented further argument by curtseying and carrying on her way.

Her hasty departure did not injure her in the eyes of either man; Sir William thought too well of himself and Darcy was beginning to think too well of her to be offended. He was quite happily contemplating the upcoming dinner and the opportunity of more time in her company when he was unhappily interrupted by a voice over his shoulder.

"I can guess the subject of your reverie."

"I should imagine not." He replied, turning and taking a step back away from Caroline as she continued.

"You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass many evenings in this manner in such society; and indeed I am quite of your opinion. What would I give to hear your strictures on these people," she finished with a mean little laugh and Darcy felt a prickle of conscience, knowing that his thoughts on the company really did not do him any credit.

"Your conjecture is totally wrong, I assure you," he eventually replied, a desire to thwart her matchmaking plans compelling him to add, "my mind was much more agreeably engaged. I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow."

There was a satisfying pause as Caroline fixed her eyes on his face, searching it for truth before demanding, "And may one dare ask to whom do the eyes which have inspired these reflections belong?"

"Miss Elizabeth Casterton," Darcy replied with great intrepidity.

"Miss Elizabeth Casterton!" repeated Miss Bingley. "I am all astonishment. How long has she been such a favourite and pray when am I to wish you joy?" She added with a slight sneer that did her no favours.

"That is exactly the question which I expected you to ask," Darcy replied with a condescending smile, "A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony, in a moment. I knew you would be wishing me joy."

Caroline soon left him, disconcerted by this news and unsure how to discredit her rival. Caroline had felt Elizabeth's earlier dismal keenly at first but soon decided that it was Miss Casterton that was lacking, rather than herself. As she watched Darcy watching Miss Casterton, Caroline decided she would write to some friends in London to discover what she could about Miss Elizabeth Casterton and her mysterious family.

Chapter 4

The week passed quickly for Elizabeth as she divided her time between her friends, her father and seeing to matters of the household. She had always taken an interest in such things, ever since she had realised that her mother failed to take care of the house, and her husband, as she ought, and in recent years Elizabeth had become quite the hostess. Not that she and her father entertained often; they preferred each other's company or the company of only their closest friends, but whenever her father did call upon her to act as hostess, she did her utmost to do him proud.

The dinner her father was hosting for the neighbourhood gentlemen was the following evening and Elizabeth went to her father's study to go over the final details with him once more.

"Come," Lord Casterton called, not looking up from the letter in his hand until Elizabeth quietly asked,

"May I speak with you for a moment father?"

"Of course my dear," her father replied kindly, gesturing for her to come to him, "You know you never have to ask Lizzy, that I will always make time for you."

"You seemed quite engrossed in your letter," Elizabeth noted as her excuse, eyeing the letter now abandoned on the desk top.

"It is from Robert," Lord Casterton admitted with a sigh; Robert was his younger brother, "he writes to say that he will attend the dinner after all, with no word of apology for sending us his reply at such short notice of course."

"Of course," Elizabeth replied with an arch of her brow. Her uncle was not her most favourite person in the world, and there was also no love lost between the brothers.

"I suppose I should really be used to his inconsideration by now," her father muttered with a shake of his head. He paused for a moment's reflection before dismissing the subject and smiling, "I don't know why I am fretting about it; I have enough faith in your abilities to know that you will take this new development in your stride."

Elizabeth chuckled at his praise, "It does not take any great skill to organise a dinner father, but it will not be a problem to add one more guest. I was planning on speaking to cook after I had spoken to you anyway."

"Oh?" Lord Casterton inquired, his interest piqued. Elizabeth only usually spoke to him about menus and the like when she wished to defer to his tastes. He was not disappointed.

"Yes. You see, Mrs Robinson and I have yet to decide on the dessert and I thought that maybe you..." Elizabeth trailed off with a grin at the look on her father's face. "What dessert would you like father?" She asked playfully.

"I don't suppose there is any chance of some of Mrs Robinson's divine blackberry and apple crumble, is there?" Her father asked tentatively.

"Your wish is my command," Elizabeth replied indulgently with a light laugh at her father's smile.

"Excellent! I knew this dinner was a good idea."

"Yes father," Elizabeth agreed with a smile, leaving him to his work and dreams of apple crumble as she went to talk to the cook.

As she sat before the mirror in her dressing room, her maid putting the final touches to her hair, Elizabeth's mind wandered to the gentlemen she would be spending the evening with. That her thoughts focused most on Mr Bingley and his friend she supposed was only natural, given that she knew the least about them, but she wondered why, of the two men, Mr Darcy was the one who incited the most interest.

Their paths had crossed on a few occasions during the week, at the homes of their neighbours or in Meryton, and each time all her efforts to make him out had been confounded by his behaviour, behaviour that seemed to vary greatly depending on the company. She reasoned that that was perhaps why she couldn't seem to get him out of her head; he presented much more of a challenge than Mr Bingley, with his open and cheerful nature, ever could and it had been a long time since Elizabeth had come across such an interesting character. As her maid pronounced her ready and she went to join her father downstairs, Elizabeth was still preoccupied and determined that she would make even more of an effort to understand the enigmatic Mr Darcy tonight.

Sir William Lucas and his son John were the first to arrive and, given the former's gregarious nature, the four of them kept up a lively conversation until the others began arriving. Mr Goulding came next, followed closely by Mr Bennet who greeted Elizabeth with all the affection that could be expected from a man of his character when speaking to the daughter of his closest friend.

"I promise to try not to bore you this time Lizzy," he teased with a smile, referring to the last dinner when the men had spent most of the evening discussing farming techniques.

"Do not worry about me sir," Elizabeth assured him before adding impertinently, "Talk about what you will, I have other ways to entertain myself."

"Still observing the quirks and foibles of others Lizzy," Mr Bennet noted with an approving smile and a pat to her hand, "Good girl."

"With two such teachers," Elizabeth replied with a smile in her father's direction, "I could do little else."

Just then the Netherfield party arrived and Elizabeth came over to her father's side as he greeted the three gentlemen.

"Mr Bingley, Mr Hurst, Mr Darcy, welcome to Willoughby Manor."

"It is a pleasure to be here," Bingley replied cheerfully, "And a pleasure to see you both again. I hope you are both well?"

"Very well, thank you sir," Elizabeth assured him with a smile, "And yourself?"

"Very well too, although I fear that we have kept you waiting," Mr Bingley replied, glancing around the room and noting that everyone else appeared to be here.

"Not at all," Elizabeth assured him, smiling when her father added, "Indeed, do not trouble yourself sir; we are still waiting on one other guest."

"Oh?" Mr Bingley inquired, wondering who it could be, seeing all of the neighbourhood gentlemen already there.

"Yes, my errant uncle has yet to arrive," Elizabeth provided helpfully with complete unconcern.

All four men, excepting her father who was used to her saying such things, looked at her with various degrees of shock but Elizabeth just smiled innocently and said, "Have you met Mr Goulding yet Mr Bingley?"

As Bingley replied that he had not and left with Elizabeth to make the introduction, Darcy watched her go with regret; he wished that he had said something to her. She was looking very well this evening, he noted with admiration, his eyes slowly perusing her form until they were once again arrested by the dancing merriment of hers. She was laughing at whatever Bingley had said and Darcy felt a surprising flash of envy at his friend's easiness. Lord Casterton's voice surprised him from his reverie,

"Your friend is certainly a cheerful fellow," he noted with a smile as he watched the pair's interaction.

Darcy couldn't decide if Lord Casterton thought that was a good or bad thing and so carefully agreed, "Yes, he is known for it amongst our acquaintances. He has always been like it, for as long as I have known him."

"You have been friends for some time then, I take it?"

"Yes, since Cambridge," Darcy affirmed, glancing at Lord Casterton and noting his thoughtful expression, wondering what was on the other man's mind. He did not have to wait long.

"You seem quite different, if you don't mind my saying so."

"Not at all," Darcy assured him, "People often remark that ours is an unlikely friendship."

"I would not say that," Lord Casterton argued, "In fact, I would say that you complement each other. Much like Elizabeth and I," he added with a smile.

"How so?" Darcy queried, having thought that father and daughter were very similar.

"She is much livelier that I. We have a similar sense of humour, I admit, but she has a joy for life that I am entirely lacking."

"She does seem very..." Darcy began, trailing off when he realised that he didn't know what it was he was going to say, and sure that whatever it was shouldn't be said to her father of all people.

"Yes, she does," Lord Casterton replied with a curious little smile. Darcy was saved from any further conversation by the arrival of Mr Bennet. He excused himself and went to stand with Bingley.

"Curious fellow that one," Mr Bennet commented as he watched him go, "I can't quite make him out."

"He is quite intriguing, I'll grant you," Lord Casterton agreed before adding, "I must admit though that I quite like him."

"As a man, or a potential son in law?" Mr Bennet queried with his usual perspicacity, causing Lord Casterton to chuckle.

"You are as bad as your wife Thomas."

"How are you this evening Mr Darcy?" Elizabeth enquired when he came to stand with her and Mr Bingley.

"Very well Miss Casterton, thank you," Darcy replied with a nod.

She had been perfectly courteous to him ever since the Lucas' party and he had found, to his surprised pleasure, that he enjoyed her conversation, mixture of archness, intelligence and impertinence that it was. He had made a concerted effort to avoid saying anything that could displease her again; he'd learnt his lesson well and had no wish to insult her once more. As he was wracking his brain for something suitable to say, having always struggled when it came to initiating conversations, Bingley turned to him and said,

"We were just discussing the area around Netherfield. Miss Casterton is quite familiar with it and was recommending some places we might like to see."

"Do you ride, Miss Casterton?" Darcy asked, grateful for the opening that Bingley had given him.

"No, I'm afraid not," Elizabeth replied in that artless way of hers, "But I am an avid walker and, as your friend will tell you, am very fond of the countryside."

"Yes," Bingley replied, laughing, "I remember how you threatened me if I did not express sufficient appreciation of your beloved Hertfordshire, Miss Casterton."

"I would not say I threatened you sir," Elizabeth argued playfully, "Rather that I cautioned you that I would be displeased."

"A very fine distinction, Miss Casterton," Darcy complimented with a slight smile as she acceded the point with a gracious nod of her head.

"And what about you Mr Darcy," Elizabeth asked, "How do you like it here?"

"I like it very well," Darcy replied before adding, "Although the terrain is perhaps a little less wild than I am used to."

"You are from Derbyshire originally?" Elizabeth questioned, adding when he simply nodded, "I have never been, but I have heard it is very beautiful. Hertfordshire must indeed by quite different from what you are used to."

"Indeed it is," Darcy agreed, "But that is not to say that the change is unpleasant."

"I should hope not!" Elizabeth laughingly agreed. "I should be quite put out if you were ever to disparage my beloved county."

"Are you cautioning me that you will be displeased, Miss Casterton?" Darcy asked with an arched brown, surprising himself with his forwardness.

Elizabeth laughed lightly, delighted with his witty reply. She was slowly beginning to see why her father liked Mr Darcy. Her chance to reply though was unfortunately curtailed by the arrival of their final guest and she fought to keep the displeasure from her face as she excused herself from Mr Darcy and Mr Bingley and went to greet her uncle.

"It is lovely to see you again Uncle Robert," she lied through her teeth as she curtseyed to him.

"Yes, yes," he replied impatiently, effectively dismissing her when he turned to her father and said, "I need to talk to you about my..."

"This is not the time," her father replied in an undertone, sounding every bit the Lord of the Manor. He rarely ever used that tone and Elizabeth quickly moved to dispel the tension.

"We have two new gentlemen here this evening Uncle," she intoned brightly, "shall I introduce you to them?"

"Oh very well," her uncle huffed when it became clear that her father wasn't going to change his mind.

Taking his arm she led him to where Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy stood speaking still. The gentlemen turned at their approach and Elizabeth made the introductions,

"Uncle, this is Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy. Gentlemen, this is my uncle, Mr Robert Casterton."

The men bowed to one another and Elizabeth, noticing that her uncle was not going to make any effort to say anything, provided cheerfully, "Mr Bingley has taken possession of Netherfield, uncle."

"Indeed," her uncle drawled. He spotted a nearby decanter and excused himself abruptly.

Elizabeth watched him go with a glare, feeling the urge to stamp her foot in frustration. She sighed, rolled her eyes and turned to Mr Bingley and his friend.

"Well, that was my "errant uncle"," she said tiredly, "I feel I should apologise for his behaviour."

"Please Miss Casterton," Bingley assured her good naturedly, "He is probably just fatigued from his journey and a little out of sorts."

This earned his friend a glowing smile from Miss Casterton who clearly appreciated Bingley's effort. Darcy was inclined to be less forgiving of the slight but attempted to hide his displeasure as he watched Mr Casterton consume two glasses of wine in quick succession. When he turned back to Miss Casterton he noted with dismay that she had seen him observing her uncle and was clearly embarrassed, judging by the slight blush on her cheeks. Wishing to put her more at ease he exerted himself to speak,

"I have been thinking about what you said at the Lucas's party last week Miss Casterton, about courtship being better suited to the indoors."

Her smile returned instantly and Darcy applauded his success.

"Oh? I am flattered that you remember what I said then; I expected you to dismiss it as a foolish notion."

"How could I do so, when your argument was so intriguing?" Darcy argued lightly and she inquired playfully,

"Ah, so I gave you food for thought then Mr Darcy?"

"Quite so Miss Casterton," Darcy affirmed, not sparing Bingley a thought when he left them to talk to the Lucas's.

"You do not agree with what I said then?" Elizabeth asked, looking forward to what could be an interesting discussion.

"I would not say that, rather that I do not know all the particulars."

"Ah, so you wish me to elaborate so that you may pick apart my argument!" Elizabeth accused with playful impertinence, "Are we to have a debate then sir? Shall I fetch my father so that he may act as referee?"

He smiled at her playfulness and Elizabeth was struck by how well such an expression suited him. He truly was a very handsome man with his dark colouring and impressive height, but it was his eyes which captivated her the most; they were a beautiful shade of blue and seemed to light up whenever he smiled, as rare an occurrence as that was.

"I do not foresee a need for such measures Miss Casterton," he replied eventually, "for truly one does not debate when in the drawing room you know, one only discusses trivial matters in an enthusiastic manner."

"A fine distinction Mr Darcy," Elizabeth complimented, echoing his words from earlier, her eyes clearly demonstrating her pleasure.

Darcy accepted her praise much as she had his, with a slight dip of his head, before asking, "Shall we discuss your argument in an enthusiastic manner then Miss Casterton?"

"By all means," Elizabeth happily granted, "Ask me what you will."

"I suppose I am most intrigued by the notion that time spent together is a detriment to courtship," Darcy admitted after a moment's thought.

"Excepting when the two people share a fine, healthy sort of love," Elizabeth reminded him with a smile.

"Of course," Darcy conceded and waited for her reply.

"I must admit that I do not have much experience in this matter myself," Elizabeth admitted candidly to begin with, "but it has been my observation that most couples enter into matrimony knowing very little about the person they are to spend their life with."

"Because they have a lifetime to find out about them, or because they haven't spent much time with one another?" Darcy queried and Elizabeth admired his perceptiveness.

"Neither," she replied succinctly and then elaborated, "it is because most people care about little else than the wealth and status of their prospective spouse and wish to avoid discovering all their faults until after the ceremony when it is already too late."

"And staying indoors encourages this ignorance?" Darcy surmised, his brow furrowed, wondering what had made the young woman before him so cynical.

"Naturally," Elizabeth replied lightly, encompassing the room in a wave of her hand, "a situation such as this is hardly conducive to meaningful conversation Mr Darcy. Couples are rarely left alone to talk and when in company are made to speak either of trivial things or of each other's supposed virtues. And they are of course encouraged in all of this by their helpful friends and relations, who seek to benefit as much from the match as the two parties involved," she added jadedly and Darcy's frown deepened.

He regarded her intently with his piercing blue eyes and, feeling uncomfortable with his scrutiny but not wishing him to know it, Elizabeth tilted her head to the side and quietly inquired, "Have I shocked you with my views on courtship sir?"

"Not so much with your views Miss Casterton," Darcy replied honestly, "rather the apparent cynicism that lies behind them."

She blushed and looked down and Darcy instantly regretted voicing his thoughts aloud.

"Miss Casterton, please forgive me," he implored gently, "I did not mean to offend you. Forgive me."

"You did not offend me," Elizabeth assured him, not wanting him to worry, "You are perfectly correct; I am cynical about many of the conventions our society."

"In many ways I agree with you," Darcy admitted after a moment and was relieved to see her smile.

"It is not much of a debate, pardon me, an enthusiastic discussion, Mr Darcy, if we both agree with one another," she pointed out and Darcy conceded the point.

"I would only argue that not all marriages are conducted in such a fashion," he replied and she nodded.

"You are quite right sir," she agreed, "I know that there are people who marry for love and who,"

"Spend most of their courtship out of doors?" Darcy provided with a slight smile as Elizabeth nodded and returned his smile.

The rest of the room had been forgotten as they talked so they were both surprised when a servant entered to announce dinner and her father moved to claim Elizabeth's arm. She left Mr Darcy with a smile and he followed the rest of the party at a sedate pace, picturing in his mind her bright smile and enchanting eyes.

As the dinner progressed, Lord Casterton found that his expectations about his daughter and Mr Darcy were not disappointed. They didn't argue by any means but from what he could tell from the other end of the table, their repartee was quick and witty and both seemed to be enjoying themselves. Conversation elsewhere around the table also flowed, with all the men bar Mr Hurst and his brother participating, a variety of topics under discussion. Somehow the subject turned to that of debt.

"I admit that I was sorry to see him go," Mr Goulding had said; a business associate had ended up in debtor's prison following some failed venture, "but it is the law."

This had somehow led on to a discussion of the rightness of a prison for debtor's with Robert Casterton finally joining the conversation to argue in favour whilst Elizabeth herself, rather spiritedly, argued against and the other men, Darcy in particular, listened with interest. Miss Casterton was a very articulate young woman and was making short work of her uncle's ill-informed and intemperate replies.

"I cannot understand the logic behind it," Elizabeth stated before adding derisively, "if indeed there is any. A man is thrown into a debtor's prison because he cannot afford to pay his debts, and yet whilst he is in prison he cannot earn the money to discharge the very debts that led him there."

"Well it serves him right for accruing the debts in the first place," her uncle argued and Elizabeth rolled her eyes as she replied with more than a hint of sarcasm,

"Perhaps it would, and perhaps the whole system would be justified if debt were the only factor leading to a man's imprisonment. But the blatant hypocrisy of the system does not make it so."

"How so?" Darcy inquired calmly; his tone indicated interest rather than argument so Elizabeth replied accordingly.

"Because it is clear that such an institution is only meant to hold a particular sort of man." She was going to explain further but was interrupted by her uncle.

"Yes," he uncle intoned angrily, not liking being openly contradicted like this, "a man who cannot pay his debts."

"From a particular class, uncle," Elizabeth pointed out with temerity, "You do not hear of any men of consequence wasting away in the debtor's prison."

Her uncle scoffed, "No, because the whole notion is absurd! A gentleman would never..."

"Accrue any debts?" Elizabeth challenged sceptically. She spoke as if addressing a child, "I think you will find that that is the absurd notion. But why I am not surprised uncle," she added with a sudden bite in her voice, "that you of all people advocate that a different standard be applied to gentlemen? I suppose your attendance this evening would by no means have been assured were it not so."

Her implication was clear to all those present and they waited with baited breath as her uncle reddened and stared at his niece with obvious fury. Lord Casterton cleared his throat lightly and Darcy saw Elizabeth glance at him and then almost instantly turn back to her uncle.

"Forgive me uncle," she apologised gracefully and with the appearance of complete sincerity, "if I have offended you in any way; it was not my intent. I simply get carried away sometimes and forget that the dinner table is not the place from which to rail about the injustices of the world."

Her uncle nodded jerkily and turned his attention back to his plate and the table seemed to breathe a collective sigh of relief. Darcy, who was more impressed than scandalised, caught Miss Casterton's eye and, picking up his wine glass, gave her an almost imperceptive salute before taking a sip. Her eyes sparkled as she bit her lip in an obvious attempt to suppress a smile, focusing on her plate.

When dinner was over, Elizabeth excused herself so that the men could enjoy their brandy and cigars. Many of the men were sorry to see her go, and Sir William had even suggested that they forgo the usual separation, but in the end they decided to only spend half an hour before joining her once more. Unfortunately, as soon as the door was closed behind her Robert Casterton made his displeasure known.

"What were you thinking, letting her speak to me like that?" He demanded of his brother as the other men prudently removed themselves from that part of the room.

"She apologised Robert," Lord Casterton replied mildly and Darcy, who felt bad for eavesdropping but did it regardless, was relieved to hear his defence of his daughter.

"I don't give a damn if she apologised!" Robert seethed, "She completely humiliated me! She is the most ill-bred, disrespectful..."

"Remember who you are talking to brother," Lord Casterton snapped angrily and Darcy almost smiled when Robert visibly withered. For all his brother's bravado, it was clear that Lord Casterton was the head of this family.

Bingley drew his attention by coming to stand by his side and Darcy turned to his friend as Bingley said, "Well, I thought that went quite well."

"You would," Darcy remarked dryly and Bingley chuckled.

"Alright, it was perhaps a tad awkward towards the end," Bingley admitted before glancing around to check he wouldn't be overheard before adding in an undertone, "Miss Casterton can be rather outspoken, can't she?"

"Yes, she can," Darcy agreed with a slight smile, thinking that he quite liked outspoken women before he pointed out, "and yet, she clearly also knows her place."

"How so?"

"Did you not notice how Lord Casterton only had to look at her and she apologised right away?"

Bingley looked at him then smiled slowly, "I daresay that quite escaped my notice. You really can be freakishly observant about some things Darce."

Darcy accepted he was right with a smile before noticing that Lord Casterton was approaching them. Both men complimented him on the meal and thanked him for the invitation; he accepted their thanks with ease and turned the topic to Netherfield's stables which, he had heard, Bingley was interested in improving. As they spoke Darcy could not help but admire the elder man, from the way he spoke and conducted himself to the way he did not shame his daughter by apologising for her behaviour in her absence. He felt he would like to know Lord Casterton better and therefore exerted himself more than usual, rewarded for his effort when Lord Casterton stayed with him for the remainder of the half hour and then invited him to accompany him to the music room where his daughter was waiting.

"I myself have always thought it prudent to look for ventures beyond the estate to help ensure its continued prosperity," Lord Casterton was saying as they walked through the main entrance hall, "but I know that many others look down on such practice. What is your opinion?"

"I would agree with..." Darcy began only to stop, completely distracted by the sound coming from the music room. His companion smiled on seeing his reaction but kept his thoughts to himself as he led the younger man the rest of the way.

Darcy stepped into the room behind Lord Casterton and swallowed heavily, his eyes and ears arrested by the woman sat playing at the piano forte, her voice filling the air around him. It was so rich and deep, filled with such emotion that Darcy felt like he was intruding on her private thoughts. Realising he was staring he cleared his throat, strove to recall the question Lord Casterton had asked of him and said,

"I agree with you."

Lord Casterton only nodded, hiding his amusement at the younger man's loss of words and motioned for him to take a seat as the other men moved to do the same thing, listening to the rest of her performance. Darcy noticed that she had no music before her and concluded that she must have been playing by memory, feeling strangely disappointed that he would not have the excuse of turning the pages as a reason to go and sit by her. She concluded the song and they all applauded as Bingley voiced his appreciation,

"Bravo Miss Casterton! That was very nice."

"Thank you Mr Bingley. I apologise for not waiting so you could hear all of it, but I was looking for a way to occupy myself."

Darcy thought it was more than just very nice and wished he could tell her so. He admitted that whilst her playing was not as good as his sister Georgiana's, her voice was truly wonderful.

"Will you not play another?" John Lucas asked and after Bingley and Mr Goulding added their own requests she returned to the bench.

Turning to Mr Bennet she playfully teased him, "I know you do not normally enjoy such exhibitions sir, so I shall play this next, livelier piece, just for you."

She then began to play a traditional folk song that Darcy vaguely recognised. It did not require half as much skill as the last piece but she performed it with such jaunty enjoyment that it was very entertaining nonetheless. When she finished Mr Bennet stood and went over to her as the others began to talk amongst themselves once more.

After talking with Mr Bennet for a few minutes Elizabeth moved to begin serving the coffee and was readying her father's cup when she felt someone approach. Looking up she found Mr Darcy stood beside her. She watched as he seemed to hesitate before finally saying,

"You sing beautifully Miss Casterton."

She was touched by the compliment, more than she would wish to be, and so playfully replied, "It is the only way I can disguise the fact that my playing is so awful."

"It is not so very bad," he argued and Elizabeth appreciated him for his honesty; she hated it when people tried to flatter her.

"No, perhaps it is only quite bad," she replied teasingly before asking, "How do you take your coffee Mr Darcy?"

"Can you not guess?" He asked quietly and Elizabeth looked at him in surprise. Such an intimate question! But then she thought for a moment and realised that it really was rather obvious. She poured him a cup and handed it to him as it was.

Darcy inclined his head and accepted the cup, prepared just the way he liked it. He was reluctant to move away but was forced to when the other men approached her for their own cups and he resigned himself to more conversation with her father. It wasn't really so bad though, he admitted to himself as they conversed; Lord Casterton was a very clever and astute man, much like Mr Bennet appeared to be, although Lord Casterton lacked the incisive wit of his friend, or perhaps simply chose not to inflict it on the company.

"I must admit I was surprised to not hear of you before we came into the area," Darcy admitted when there was a lull in the conversation, "Bingley made inquiries in town about the local area but your name was not mentioned."

A shadow passed across Lord Casterton's face as Darcy said this and he wondered what he had said to trouble the man so much. He recovered soon enough, though his voice sounded a little strained as he replied,

"I have never been one for town; I have spent much of my time hiding away in the country."

"I do not blame you my lord," Darcy replied, thinking that he would spend all his time at Pemberley if he could. He felt compelled to explain further when Lord Casterton looked at him sharply, "I myself have always much preferred the country to town and miss it when I am gone."

"Derbyshire is a beautiful county," Lord Casterton concurred and Darcy smiled to himself.

"Do not let your daughter hear you admit that my lord."

"Oh don't worry, I am not afraid of her," Lord Casterton replied with a broad smile as the lady in question approached. "Mr Darcy and I were just saying how much we prefer the country to town, Lizzy."

"Yet another thing we agree on sir," she replied with a smile in Darcy's direction.

"Another?" Her father queried and Elizabeth nodded.

"Yes, for Mr Darcy and I both agree that conventional marriages are a sham, that Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is comedic in its awfulness, that Mozart is superior to Beethoven and that coffee is best served black."

Her father laughed, "My my, you have been busy! Is there nothing that you disagree on?"

"I believe we did agree to disagree on one point," Darcy replied as he watched Miss Casterton fight to suppress her smile, knowing what it was that they had disagreed on.

"Oh? And what was that?" Lord Casterton asked, looking between his daughter and the gentlemen and noticing their amusement.

"Who serves the best apple crumble, Mrs Robinson or Mr Darcy's cook at Pemberley," Elizabeth replied laughingly as her father shook his head.

"I'm afraid I must side with my daughter on this point Mr Darcy," he intoned gravely and smiled when Darcy bowed formally and replied,

"Then we must also agree to disagree, for it is a solemn issue that I doubt either of us would compromise on."

Elizabeth laughed and her father exclaimed, "Such nonsense! I must find Thomas at once; he will save me from your teasing."

And with that he left them, Elizabeth still chuckling as she watched him go and Darcy watching her as he admired the way her laughter made her eyes even brighter.

"Have you enjoyed yourself this evening?" She asked for lack of anything else to say.

"I have," Darcy assured her, "It has been most pleasant."

"Perhaps not entirely pleasant," she replied with a meaningful glance in her uncle's direction, "but I find that I am quite easily provoked."

"It was very provoking," Darcy admitted though his voice was in no way censorious. Elizabeth was surprised that he thought so; her father and Mr Bennet were usually the only men who did not frown upon her sometimes more spirited behaviour.

"Well, I suppose it is my duty to entertain my guests," she replied lightly after a moment, wishing to dismiss the subject. The approach of Mr Bingley prevented the other gentleman from replying.

"I really must say again what a wonderful performance that was Miss Casterton," he said as he came to stand with them, smiling happily, "I shall have to tell my sisters about it when we return; they would be delighted to hear you themselves I'm sure."

Elizabeth thought that the only delight they would have would be in picking apart her performance but she kept that thought to herself. She had seen and heard enough from the Bingley sisters to know that they thought too well of themselves and too little of others; why, they had even tried to ingratiate themselves with her when they had realised that she wasn't just some country Miss, much to Elizabeth's secret amusement.

"Have you visited with the Bennet's since the Lucas's party Miss Casterton?" Bingley asked and Elizabeth smiled when he quickly added, "I understood that you and they are quite close friends."

"Yes, I saw them but two days ago sir," Elizabeth replied and then, sensing his need for more information, added, "Jane and I are particularly close and we spend much time together. I often walk to Longbourn as it is under a mile away and we usually spend our time in the garden when the weather permits."

"Indeed?" Mr Bingley inquired and this time Elizabeth did smile at his eagerness. She wasn't averse to singing her friend's praises though and replied,

"Yes, for Jane is very fond of gardening and has done much to improve the rose and herb gardens there. She enjoys selecting which blooms will be used in the house and has a collection of pressed flowers too."

Bingley beamed at this new information about his beloved "angel" whilst Darcy observed him warily. Not again Charles, he thought with exasperation, wishing that his friend did not fall in and out of love quite so easily.

"I shall have to remember the next time we call on them to ask for a tour around the gardens," Bingley replied with enthusiasm and Elizabeth could not resist saying,

"I am sure Jane will like that very much."

The evening ended not much longer after that and Elizabeth was relieved to finally be able to retire for the night, though she had enjoyed herself much more than she had expected to. She smiled when she thought of how she had inadvertently livened up the evening with her argument with her uncle but knew that it was the addition of the two new neighbourhood gentlemen that had turned what would have been a rather tedious evening into a rather pleasant one. Realising that she was still thinking about Mr Darcy even now that he was gone, she quickly rolled over and blew out her candle, determined to put him out of her mind and go to sleep.

Chapter 5

Posted on May 8, 2009

A few days later, Darcy was once again on his way to Willoughby Manor. The night of the dinner party he and Lord Casterton had discovered a mutual enjoyment of a good game of chess, and the older gentleman had extended an invitation which had been readily accepted. Whether his willingness to come was affected by the likelihood of seeing Miss Casterton again was something Darcy refused to consider. Riding up to the front of the house he dismounted as a groom hurried over to take his mount to the stables and began to climb the steps. Lord Casterton had espied Darcy from the windows of his study and came out to greet him.

"Good afternoon, Mr Darcy."

"Good afternoon, my lord. I hope I am not too early," Darcy replied but Lord Casterton waved away his concerns.

"Not at all; you're right on time. In fact, I have to admit that I have been somewhat impatiently awaiting your arrival," he added with a smile, leading Darcy to his study. "I have high hopes for you."

Darcy smiled at the compliment before his attention was distracted by the chessboard arranged beside one of the large windows that ran along one side of the room. The pieces were large and ornate, without being garish, and Darcy could have sworn they were cast in silver. Lord Casterton noticed his admiration and quietly told him,

"It was a gift from my mother to my father on the 40th anniversary of their marriage. They played together almost every night."

"It's a beautiful set," Darcy replied, unsure of what else to say. He could not help but feel honoured that Lord Casterton was willing to share the set with him, certain that its place in his private study meant that it was usually only used by him and his daughter.

"Come, chose your side and take a seat." Darcy did as he was directed and sat on the black side as Lord Casterton went to the sideboard. "Can I get you anything to drink?"

Darcy accepted a glass of whiskey and waited for Lord Casterton to join him. As the elder man handed him his drink and took his seat, he warned him,

"I should tell you now that I am a talker. Elizabeth prefers to be silent whilst she plays but I find the silence disconcerting."

"And I suppose talking has the benefit of disconcerting your opponent," Darcy pointed out and Lord Casterton chuckled.

"Perhaps, although I daresay Elizabeth has learnt to drown out my prattle. I hope it will not cause you any problems?"

"Not at all," Darcy assured him, "Charles and I often play and he is similarly verbose."

"Is he a good player?" Lord Casterton asked as he made his first move.

"I think he would be if he applied himself more," Darcy replied diplomatically and Lord Casterton smiled at the careful answer.

"Is your daughter a good player?" Darcy asked and Lord Casterton shrugged as he replied,

"I think so, but you will have to play her yourself and see. It is hard for me to be objective; and I also have the unfair advantage of having taught her how to play."

"Who taught you to play?" He asked after a slight pause as he made his move, thinking that whoever had taught the younger man must have been quite skilled.

"My father first taught me, but these days my main opponent is my cousin; he is a colonel in the army and strategy seems to be his forte," he added and Lord Casterton nodded thoughtfully.

"You must be grateful for that fact, given the current situation on the continent."

"Yes," Darcy agreed, "As are my aunt and uncle. He is their younger son and so needed to find himself an occupation, but I know they worry about his safety."

"As, I'm sure, would any parent."

The conversation turned to other subjects as they continued with their game; they were well matched, not only in terms of their skill at chess but with regards to many of their opinions and there were frequent pauses in the game as they stopped to talk. Eventually though the game ended in a stalemate but another was quickly begun, neither wishing to part company as of yet.

Elizabeth was blissfully unaware of her father's visitor, only realising that they had company when she walked unannounced into her father's study.

"Oh," she exclaimed, caught off guard as Mr Darcy stood up, "I didn't mean to intrude; I didn't know you had a visitor father."

"You're not intruding Lizzy," her father assured her, "Mr Darcy and I are just having a few games of chess. Did you need something?" He asked as she shut the door and came forward.

"I was just wondering if you'd seen our copy of Burke anywhere." She had her eyes on the board as she added, "I can't seem to find it in the library and thought you might have it in here."

"Hmmm," her father mused thoughtfully, looking over the bookshelves. "It may be over there, the third shelf."

Elizabeth nodded and, with a quick smile in Mr Darcy's direction, went to look where her father had said. Darcy watched her go for a moment before taking his seat again, trying to think of his next move. He sensed that the game could be his, but the all important move seemed to be eluding him.

"Have you found it Lizzy?" He heard Lord Casterton ask, looking up when the daughter replied, "Yes, although I'm not quite sure what it's doing all the way up there."

She gestured to a shelf above her head and Darcy quickly came to her aid.

"Allow me," he told her as he came towards her and Elizabeth smiled her gratitude as he easily reached up and retrieved the book for her.

"Are you a fan of his works?" He asked as he handed it to her, not stepping away though he really was standing quite close to her.

"Yes," her father laughingly replied, "as well as any other political theorist whose work she can get her hands on. Such tracts are all she ever reads, despite my best efforts to widen her horizons," he added with an affectionate smile as Elizabeth playfully argued,

"Rather political tracts than nothing at all, father. And I do read other things occasionally."

"Very occasionally," her father teased and Darcy bit back a smile as Elizabeth frowned with mock affront.

"Most fathers would be happy that I do not simply read fashion magazines," she pointed out with a pout and her father laughed.

"Alright Lizzy, you win; anything would indeed be better than that! Now if you don't mind, Mr Darcy, I would like to carry on with this game; I am determined to beat you soundly."

Darcy smiled and was about to return to his seat when Miss Casterton lay her hand on his arm; he looked down at her in question and, after a quick glance towards her father, she quietly said,

"Knight to queen's bishop three."

She smiled at his surprised expression before moving away and taking a seat near to the chessboard so that she could observe the game as she read her book. Darcy eventually returned to his seat and smiled widely when he looked at the position of all the pieces on the board; she had given him the move that he needed.

The rest of the afternoon past by in quiet companionship as Darcy and Lord Casterton played and Elizabeth occasional joined in their conversation. Darcy won the second game (with the help of Elizabeth's hint) but Lord Casterton wasn't about to let him go without a fight and a third game was begun. Before they knew it the dinner hour was almost upon them and Darcy reluctantly pointed out that he would soon have to leave, not really wanting to have to return to Netherfield and the waiting Bingley sisters.

"You are more than welcome to stay for dinner," Lord Casterton offered, "we could finish our game afterwards."

"Father," Elizabeth chided him lightly with a smile in their guest's direction, "you really cannot take poor Mr Darcy hostage simply because you want to even the score between you!"

"I confess, I do not mind being taken hostage," Darcy admitted with a smile; he had enjoyed their company.

"Then you are welcome to join us Mr Darcy; I would not have you staying here under duress but if it pleases you to stay then by all means, please do so," Lord Casterton replied and Darcy, tempted by the offer, looked to Miss Casterton.

"I would not wish to inconvenience you..."

"It is no trouble Mr Darcy," Elizabeth assured him, laying aside her book and rising as she said, "I will speak to cook now about adding an extra sitting."

"Thank you," Darcy replied and she left them for a few moments. On her return her father, as he pondered his next move, absently asked her,

"How do you find Burke today, my dear?"

"Oh, largely unchanged from the last time I read it, father," Elizabeth teased with a sidewise glance at Mr Darcy, knowing that her father wasn't really listening.

"Good, good," he replied and Elizabeth bit her lip to keep from laughing.

"His work seems quite prescient, given what has happened since its publication," Darcy offered and Elizabeth nodded.

"Quite; although I sometimes think that the more important parts of his work are overlooked in favour of those that focus solely on the revolution, precisely because his fears seem to have been so well founded."

"Which parts would you say are more important?" Darcy queried, ignoring the fact that it was his turn to make a move.

"Those which explain why he was so fearful," Elizabeth replied, "The war has given many people a very real reason to fear the change a revolution can cause, but Burke did not have such a reason; he feared the upheaval of a revolution mainly on principle, rather than as a result of experience."

"Many would argue that he despised all change, revolutionary or not," Darcy pointed out but Elizabeth shook her head as she argued,

"They would be wrong to argue such a thing; it is clear from Reflections that he did not despise all change, otherwise he would have condemned the Glorious Revolution as well. And then of course there are his speeches in favour of American independence."

"Is it not hypocritical, to argue in favour of one revolution but against another?"

"If all revolutions were the same, yes," Elizabeth agreed before adding, "but according to Burke there are fundamental differences between the revolutions that he approves of and the French revolution that he so vehemently opposed. He outlines these differences in Reflections; a fact which seems often overlooked."

"But surely," Darcy stated once he'd made his move, "a revolution is a revolution? If one affects monumental change whilst the other affects only minor change, can both really be called a revolution?"

"Burke seems to think that they can," Elizabeth replied with a smile, "although I am inclined to agree with you that his distinctions are somewhat arbitrary. But," she added with a light laugh, "interpreting history as he needed to was, I suppose, his prerogative."

"What do you make of the revolution?" Darcy asked, turning in his chair to face her. Her father seemed resigned to the interruption and sat back, ready to listen. Elizabeth herself was pleased by his enquiry; not many men would care for the opinion of a woman.

"The short answer to that question would be that I agree with the theory but not the practice," she replied. "I think that the ideals- libertie, egalitie, fraternitie- are laudable but, as is so often the case, such ideals have proven very difficult to implement. Burke was right when he argued that "in most questions of state, there is a middle. There is something else than the mere alternative of absolute destruction or unreformed existence". The revolutionaries in France tried to do too much too soon, and we have seen the result. I still hold onto the hope, however," she added with a smile, "that it will all turn out well in the end."

Darcy nodded and gazed at her appraisingly, thinking that she really was an unusual, and rare, lady. Her father smiled his approval as he noted,

"I see you are in one of your more conservative moods today, my dear." He turned to Darcy as he explained, "She can be something of a revolutionary when the mood strikes her."

"Yes," Elizabeth agreed with a blushing laugh, "although usually only after I have read Rousseau or Locke or other similar thinkers. They never fail to inspire me."

"I remember when I first read Rousseau's Social Contract," Darcy mused with a smile, "Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains." How one cannot be affected by those words is something I have never understood."

"Nor I," Elizabeth agreed; they shared a smile but were interrupted by the arrival of a servant announcing that dinner was served.

The two men stood as Elizabeth left her book on her father's desk; she went to him and took his proffered arm, leaving Darcy to follow behind them to the smaller family dining room that they used when they weren't entertaining. It was a warm and inviting room and, with Elizabeth and Darcy sat to either side of Lord Casterton, they made a happy little party. Elizabeth and Darcy continued their conversation and he was surprised to discover the depth of her knowledge; she had read many of the well known works as well as many of the lesser ones, some of which Darcy had not even heard of. When he complimented her on it, she blushed and replied,

"In truth, I deserve very little credit; my father saw to my education and always made sure that I kept up my studies. And he is the one always purchasing new texts for me," she added, affectionately laying her hand on his arm.

"I may have laid the foundations, Lizzy," her father argued lightly, "but your understanding is your own. I can take no credit for that."

Elizabeth smiled at his praise and lowered her eyes to her plate; Darcy was watching their interaction with interest and was reminded of the relationship he and his father had shared. Whilst he had never been denied parental affection, every compliment from his father had been cherished because Darcy had held him in such esteem. The desire to make his father proud, to earn his praise, had motivated Darcy throughout his formative years and, to a certain extent, still motivated him now.

"What do you make of The Republic, Mr Darcy?" Elizabeth asked and her father dramatically cried,

"Oh no, Lizzy, not Plato!" He turned to Darcy and cautioned him, "I would claim ignorance if I were you, sir. She really can become quite ferocious when it comes to our Athenian friend."

Darcy chuckled but dared to reply. "I despised it," he stated with impunity and was rewarded with a glowing smile.

"At last, someone who agrees with me."

"You are a brave man, Mr Darcy," her father complimented before pointing out, "either that or you guessed that Lizzy was not likely to be a fan."

"I confess that I did not think it likely," Darcy admitted, his eyes on Miss Casterton as he added, "but I would like to think that I would never shy away from an argument."

"Even one you were not sure to win?" Elizabeth challenged with an arched brow.

"Even then," Darcy averred and Elizabeth smiled as she replied,

"I am glad to hear it."

Lord Casterton silently looked between the gentleman and his daughter and smiled to himself.

"Ah-ha! Victory at last!"

Elizabeth laughed as her father's cheer distracted her from her reading; they had returned to the study following dinner and the two men had become quite engrossed in their battle. She had not minded at all, quite happy to read her book and surreptitiously steal glances at Mr Darcy's profile.

"Well done my lord," Darcy complimented; it indeed had been a hard fought game.

"Thank you," Lord Casterton replied with a smile, sitting back in his chair, "I must say that it has been many years since I have faced such a challenge. I shall have to tell Thomas about you."

"I believe Mr Darcy would like to actually see some of Hertfordshire during his stay here, papa," Elizabeth teased playfully, "Rather than just the inside of yours and Mr Bennet's studies."

Darcy chuckled at her observation and she smiled at him; as they looked at each other he tried to think of something to say, but absolutely nothing came to mind. Her father cleared his throat slightly and the moment passed.

"Will you play Lizzy now?" Her father questioned before noting, "It is getting a little late to begin another game, I suppose."

"Yes," Darcy agreed; Elizabeth smiled at the implied compliment to her skills as a chess player and it was with great reluctance that Darcy tore his eyes away from her and said, "I believe I must soon return to my friends. They will no doubt be wondering what has become of me."

"Will you stay for one last drink?" Lord Casterton offered and Darcy, who would have happily stayed without such an incentive, agreed.

The two men took seats near Elizabeth and she laid aside her book so that she could join in their conversation.

"You will have to come back again soon, Mr Darcy," she noted with a smile, "You have won one game each and so will need one more to decide the winner."

"I believe your father and I are perhaps too well matched, Miss Casterton," he replied, "to decide which of us is best. It is perhaps best to simply say we are equal and leave it at that."

"I should quite happily be declared your equal sir," her father replied with a smile, "I never have been much of a competitor I'm afraid."

"No, thank goodness!" Elizabeth laughed, "I could not abide it if you were constantly seeking to exert your superiority over others in order to feel yourself vindicated as a man."

Darcy thought this a curious attitude for the daughter of a baron to have and regarded Miss Casterton with interest. Elizabeth noticed his scrutiny and playfully noted,

"You do not agree, Mr Darcy?"

"I think it would depend on the manner in which superiority was exerted," he replied thoughtfully and she asked him to explain. "Perhaps the idle pursuits where competition between men is more common are little indication of superiority, but I think that in other ways a man can strive to achieve more than another, and thus rightly be seen as superior."

"You refer to education? To how well read a man is compared to his fellows; to the extent of his knowledge?" Elizabeth supposed and Darcy smiled and nodded,

"Yes," he replied, pleased that she understood him so well. "An educated man, with greater understanding of the world cannot but be seen as superior to one who knows little beyond what is required by his daily life."

"So if all men were treated to an equal education, would they all become equal as men?" Elizabeth challenged, her head tilted thoughtfully to one side in a manner Darcy was coming to recognise and love, "Could education be a great leveller?"

"Lizzy," her father chuckled, "it is far too late in the day for such radicalism. Leave Mr Darcy alone."

"I do not mind, my lord," Darcy assured him, truly meaning it; he was enjoying their discussion, and the bright spark in Miss Casterton's eyes as she warmed to her subject. He turned back to her and replied, "I think that the importance of education cannot be underestimated; having said that, however, I do not see how society can ever be levelled so all men are equal. The idea seems to me too...utopian."

"In terms of material possessions and wealth, and perhaps indeed even education," Elizabeth admitted, "I believe you are right in saying that men will never be completely equal; but in terms of their rights, their opportunities, their access to wealth, education and material possessions, I believe that one day men should and will be equal. Not in my lifetime, however," she added with a rueful smile. "Such ideas are, as my father says, far too radical for most."

"Perhaps," Darcy conceded, "but that does not make them any less appreciable."

Elizabeth smiled her pleasure at his compliment and Darcy felt quite happy with himself for having pleased her. He reluctantly took note of the time and declared that this time he really did have to leave.

"Feel free to blame me for your prolonged absence," Lord Casterton joked as both men rose to their feet.

"I will," Darcy replied and Lord Casterton laughed.

After thanking the elder gentleman for the pleasure of his company and promising to come back again for another game soon, Darcy turned to Miss Casterton. He took her offered hand, bestowing a gentle kiss on the back of it, saying as he did so,

"Good evening, Miss Cameron. Thank you for dinner and the stimulating conversation."

"You're perfectly welcome, Mr Darcy," she replied with a slight blush and he smiled at her once more before finally taking his leave.

Avoiding the knowing look in her father's eye, Elizabeth sat down and quickly hid behind the pages of her book, smiling to herself. She chastised herself for being so silly but it had no effect at all.

Chapter 6

Darcy didn't understand what was happening to him. He had always prided himself on his control, on his ability to regulate his feelings and actions, but lately he had been having trouble. Whenever he was in her presence he felt like smiling, and often did, and found himself talking and even flirting a little with her. Him, flirting! It was practically unheard of. He was lucky that no one seemed to have noticed the difference because he honestly did not know what he would say if questioned; how could he admit that he thought Miss Casterton was very pretty, uncommonly pretty, and that her manners, whilst not as polished or refined as he was used to, were infinitely more pleasing to him than most? They had not known each long, and he knew very little of her or her family, after all; her father was referred to everywhere simply as "Lord Casterton" and though Darcy knew him to be a baron, his real title was as yet unknown to him. And what of her mother, where was she? Despite what little he knew of her, however, he still enjoyed being around her and it was this thought in particular that gave Darcy pause. He had never enjoyed the company of any woman outside of his family before; tolerated would be a better word.

That morning he had risen earlier than usual and had decided to try and get her out of his head by going for a long and vigorous ride through the fields surrounding Netherfield. He left the house when the sun was barely up and after almost an hour of heavy riding he allowed his horse to slow and took in his bearings. He did not know the area that well as of yet but he was not lost; he would just go back the way he came. Now that he was not concentrating on riding his treacherous thoughts began to turn once more to Miss Casterton when they were interrupted by the voice of the lady herself.

"Good morning Mr Darcy."

Turning in the saddle he espied her leaning against a gate in the distance and slowly headed over to her. He slid from the saddle and came forward.

"Good morning Miss Casterton. I did not expect to meet anyone else out so early."

"No, I don't suppose you did," she replied with a smile, "And I suspect that we are the only two up and about for miles."

"Could you not sleep?" Darcy enquired after a moment when she fell silent to admire the scenery.

Elizabeth shook her head, "It is not unusual for me to be up at this time; I find I manage very well without sleep and I love to walk when the day is still only beginning."

He did not make any reply, he simply looked at her with that expression she was coming to recognise but still could not understand, so she turned to his horse and asked him,

"Will you not introduce us sir?"

He looked surprised but then nodded and led her over to where his horse, a beautiful black gelding with one white foot, waited calmly for them to approach. Darcy took hold of the reins as he said to her,

"His name is Toby. He's very friendly, you needn't be afraid."

"I'm not," she assured him as she stepped up and stroked the horses nose, "Good morning sir, I'm honoured to meet you. You are quite the handsome devil."

Darcy smiled as he listened to her converse with his horse until she turned to him and noted, "Toby is quite an unusual name."

"Yes," he agreed, not elaborating.

Elizabeth smiled playfully and prodded, "And is there a particular reason he is called Toby?"

"My sister named him," Darcy admitted with a gentle smile at the memory, "she was barely six and was fascinated with his white "toe" as she called it and so Toby became his name."

Elizabeth could hear the sincere affection he obviously had for his sister and once again felt the pang of being an only child. She pushed the feeling aside and asked,

"Is your sister much younger than you?"

"Yes, she is more than ten years my junior," he replied quietly and Elizabeth thought that she detected, besides a sincere affection, a certain reluctance about him and so let the subject drop.

"If you don't mind my asking Miss Casterton," he said after a moment, making her turn her attention to him, "Why is it that you do not ride?"

"Well, I do know how to ride," she admitted with a smile at his expression, "It is simply that I choose not to."

"Why?" Darcy queried; it would have made exploring the countryside she loved so much easier.

"Because my father does not like it," she replied gently before explaining, "when I was still a girl and taking lessons my horse was startled and I was thrown. I spent a week in bed with concussion and a broken arm and after that my father refused to let me anywhere near a horse. He relented a few years later but only so far as to let me take lessons when he was not at home," she added with a light laugh.

"I can understand his concern," Darcy commiserated with the absent gentleman, "whenever I see Georgiana, my sister, riding I still worry for her safety even though I know that she is a very competent horsewoman."

Elizabeth smiled at his brotherly concern, pleased to learn of this new aspect of the gentleman before her. She was still puzzling over his varying behaviour; at times he was disdainful and proud, like at the assembly, but at others he was agreeable and a very good conversationalist, especially when in the company of her and her father. The neighbourhood as a whole did not like him, but she could not make him out.

"How far are we from Willoughby Manor?" Darcy asked, interrupting her rambling thoughts.

"We are a little way from Longbourn," she replied, pointing into the distance, "but we are on the Netherfield side and so must be around two miles from Willoughby."

"You must have risen very early Miss Casterton," Darcy noted, "to have come so far already. Either that or you are a very good walker."

"I readily admit that I am," Elizabeth cheerily replied, "I am always rambling about the place, coming and going as a please."

"I do not blame you," Darcy agreed, glancing over the fields and hills surrounding them, "if I had the time I would happily spend it outdoors as you do."

"Are you so very busy?" She queried with her head cocked to one side.

"I have many responsibilities Miss Casterton," Darcy replied calmly; coming from her the question did not seem intrusive, "Besides my estate I have a number of other interests and I am joint guardian of my sister."

"Is it just the two of you?" Elizabeth asked quietly, adding when he looked at her in question, "You and your sister?"

"Yes," Darcy replied with a slight nod, "My father passed away a few years ago, and my mother many years before that."

"I'm sorry," Elizabeth said, wishing she hadn't pried into such a personal subject.

"Don't be," Darcy assured her; he wanted to say that he didn't mind talking about this with her but held himself back, "It was some time ago now."

Thinking of his parents naturally led his thoughts to hers and Darcy slowly asked,

"Forgive me if I am too forward Miss Casterton, but I cannot help but wonder about..."

"My mother?" Elizabeth guessed when he trailed off uncomfortably. He nodded and she replied, "She passed away two years ago this winter."

"I'm sorry for your loss," Darcy replied gravely but she was quick to reassure him.

"Please, it's alright. She was...I still have my father," she said eventually, "and we are happy here together."

They both drifted into silence then, happy to stand and admire as the mist began to clear and the day became bright and clear. Glancing up at the sun to ascertain the time Elizabeth smiled at her companion and said,

"Well, I must be going. My father will be up now and expecting me to join him for breakfast. It was nice speaking to you again Mr Darcy, thank you."

"No, thank you," Darcy replied, genuinely meaning it. He knew that their impromptu tête-à-tête wasn't entirely proper but didn't really care.

"Until next time then," she curtseyed and then playfully added, "I will think of more things we can discuss in an enthusiastic manner."

"Then I will look forward to your unconventional opinions madam," Darcy replied with a smile.

Elizabeth was already walking away when she called over her shoulder, "As you should sir, for everyone knows that conventionality is the refuge of a stagnant mind¹."

"Charles! Charles!"

Both Bingley and Darcy looked up from their present occupations as they heard Caroline's voice screeching through the halls of the house. They waited a moment only to have her burst into her brother's study, followed closely by her sister Louisa, wielding a piece of paper.

"Oh brother, you will not believe what I have just learnt..."

"Calm yourself Caroline," Bingley replied, wondering at the cause for such a display, "Whatever is the matter?"

"I have just had a letter from my friend Mrs Jenkins and you will not believe what she has to say about the Casterton's."

At this Darcy sat up a little straighter, wondering at what that gossip monger knew about Lord Casterton and his daughter.

"Caroline," Bingley cautioned lightly, "you know I do not like to listen to gossip."

"Oh it is not gossip brother, it is fact!" Caroline declared dramatically before bemoaning, "I cannot believe we have been associating with such people."

"Sister explain yourself," Bingley requested tiredly, not missing Darcy's darkening expression.

"You will not believe this Charles," Caroline began, "but Lord Casterton is Baron Courtney, which means that his wife was Lady Viola, Baroness Courtney."

Darcy suddenly stood from his chair and went to the window as Bingley blankly repeated, "Baroness Courtney?"

"Oh Charles, surely you must have heard? Baroness Courtney, Lady Viola, the Lady Viola, the one who..."

Caroline's voice was lost on Darcy as he became lost in his own memories. Charles may not have heard of the lady in question, but Darcy certainly had. He could still remember how town had been rife with talk of her latest breach of propriety, the wagers placed in the book at Whites over who would enjoy her "favour" next, her rejection from polite society as she and her lovers became less and less discreet. It had been many years since he'd heard her name mentioned, at least five or six, but clearly such infamy was not easily forgotten; neither was such an ignominious end Darcy thought with a dark glare as he heard Caroline say,

"...she and her latest lover were both killed two years ago when their carriage overturned..."

Darcy could picture Miss Casterton as she had been the morning before as she had said to him,

"She passed away two years ago this winter."

"But surely," Bingley stammered, glancing at his friends back, "surely there has been some mistake?"

"There is no mistake Charles," Darcy declared darkly, still facing the window, "Miss Casterton told me herself that her mother passed away two years ago, and it would be too much of a coincidence to suppose that her mother and the Baroness were not one and the same woman."

"Oh what are we going to do?!" Caroline practically wailed, collapsing into the nearest chair, "We will be ruined!"

"Do not talk such nonsense Miss Bingley," Darcy snapped harshly, surprising everyone with his vehemence, even himself.

"But Darce," Bingley argued gently, "if it is true..."

"Then it is of no consequence whilst we are here," Darcy replied coldly, adding when Caroline tried to protest, "it is obvious that our neighbours are either ignorant of or unconcerned about the truth, so it is of little matter to us whilst we remain here; we can simply avoid them. Once we return to town it will be easy enough to conceal the fact that we were ever acquainted with the Casterton's. Unless of course your friend cannot be trusted," Darcy asked Caroline bluntly and she quickly assured him that she would take care of Mrs Jenkins.

"I think you are right Darce," Bingley said, bowing to his judgement as always, "it would be a shame to quit the place and I see no reason to object to the Casterton's if others do not. It was after all only Baroness Courtney whose behaviour was so scandalous."

"And yet the whole family will have to bear the consequences of it," Darcy muttered to himself.

He thought back to the shadow that had crossed Lord Casterton's face when they had spoken of town and could now easily understand the reason for it. The name Casterton had also seemed familiar to him when he had first heard it, he remembered, but he had dismissed the thought. And had he not wondered why Lord Casterton's full title was not used, or why he and his daughter did not seem to be treated with the degree of deference their high rank deserved? Now he knew.

When Caroline had left to reply to her friend's letter, Darcy excused himself and left Bingley's study, his thoughts twisted as he climbed the stairs to the second floor and went to his chambers. Sitting in a chair in front of the hearth he sighed deeply, unable to understand why the news had affected him so deeply. He had practically shouted at Caroline in front of everyone and he wondered at his behaviour; it was almost that of a man who had had his hopes disappointed. Hopes? Did he have hopes regarding Miss Casterton? Or rather, had he had hopes regarding her, for it was as clear as day to Darcy that whatever he may have wished, it now could never be. He could never consent to a match that would shame his family and which would align them with the family of such a woman. It would be a disgrace, and all his notions of duty and consequence went against it. No, such an idea was beyond ridiculous and from this point on, Darcy determined, he would cease to think of her at all.

A few days later Darcy and Bingley were engaged to dine with the officers; as they left Netherfield Darcy could tell that Bingley was regretting having accepting the invitation because Miss Bennet was to dine with his sisters that day. Darcy, however, was quite glad that they were to go out, sure that more time spent with Miss Bennet would do Bingley no good. He was sure that Miss Bennet was a lovely young woman and admitted she was very pretty (though not as pretty as a certain dark haired lady of his acquaintance), but so far all of his interactions with her family had further impressed on him their...unsuitability.

Arriving in Meryton, he and Bingley were shown into the dining room where Colonel Forster and a number of his men were assembled. He allowed his friend to make conversation for him as usual, only exerting himself to speak when directly spoken to. The officers of the regiment seemed quite gentlemanly, he admitted to himself, but he still could not feel at ease. When they sat down to dinner the men, who had been somewhat wary in his presence at first, seemed to lose some of their inhibitions and there was much laughter and camaraderie. Darcy let it all wash over him, not really listening until one remark caught his attention. He listened attentively as he heard a young lieutenant say,

"...quite the scandal, so I hear. The whole family has been cast low because of it; the daughter has a fortune of thirty thousand pounds, I heard, but no decent man wants anything to do with them. Not worth the trouble."

"I'd be willing to put up with a good deal of trouble for thirty thousand," his dinner companion replied and there were a few laughs of agreement.

"I couldn't believe it when I heard who they were; my sister works in one of those great houses in London and the stories she would tell...!"

"I heard that the Baroness died on the road between here and London; apparently the Baron came home and didn't appreciate finding his wife at home entertaining a particular friend and threw them out."

"Do you think he knew he was being cuckolded all along?"

"Oh, he knew alright; never did a thing about it though. According to my sister there was one night when the Baroness arrived at a ball with her husband but then disappeared with another man and didn't reappear for three days; the Baron just went home, never challenged the man or anything."

And so it went on until the Colonel called away their attention and the men let the subject drop. Darcy, his appetite ruined, pushed away his plate and glared at his wine glass; was this what it was like behind closed doors? Did the neighbourhood treat the Casterton's with the appearance of friendship only to malign them in their absence? Darcy's dislike of this small country neighbourhood went up another notch even as he realised that in London it would have been far worse; the ton would not have scrupled to abuse the Casterton's to their face.

His mood ruined by the officer's gossip, Darcy was relieved when the evening ended and he was allowed to return to the relative peace of Netherfield.

¹ This is from a Judith McNaught book called "Something Wonderful"- it just seemed like something this Elizabeth would say

The two books Darcy and Elizabeth discuss are Burke's Reflections on the Revolution in France and Rousseau's Social Contract, just in case any of you were interested (I do politics at uni, can you tell :P )

Hope you enjoyed the update, next time we're off to Netherfield!