Section I, Next Section

Chapter 1

Posted on Thursday, 11 September 2003

One fine autumn morning Lizzy and Jane had been tending the roses in the garden at Longbourn, cutting stems for vase arrangements for the house and collecting petals to be used for making perfumed water.

"These petals are perfect for making the rose water you so love, Jane," Elizabeth stated as they worked. "I feel I have enough now to begin a new lot."

"That is most opportune then, Lizzie, for I have only a little left from the last that you made," Jane said sweetly. "You are such a wonderful sister to take the time for me."

"I love doing things for you, dear Jane," Elizabeth said in reply, and she did love making the perfume water for her older sister who was the kindest person she knew. "I have need of but one other ingredient to make it complete."

Jane smiled and shaking her head adding, "I feel you may be hard pressed finding celandine at this time of year, Lizzie. We have yet to see them in their usual locations around Longbourn this spring and summer."

"This is so, but on my many wanderings, I seem to recall seeing them growing in the far meadow on the way to Netherfield. I will look there tomorrow."

Fitzwilliam Darcy's business in London prevented his accompanying his friend Charles Bingley to Netherfield, the estate that he had leased in Hertfordshire. By the time Darcy had managed to conclude his affairs to make his way to Netherfield on horseback, Mr. Bingley had enjoyed a full month's activities of country life including introductions to many of his neighbors at their homes and during several of the Assembly dances.

At dinner that same night, the Bingleys and the Hursts talked to Darcy about their experiences of late during their stay in Hertfordshire with Bingley showing as usual more enthusiasm than the rest of the party.

"We have met many of our neighbors, and they all seem quite pleasant," remarked Bingley as he sat beside his friend who was busy consuming the main course of pheasant from the previous day's shooting.

"Oh, Mr. Darcy," whined Caroline seated beside the taller gentleman. "Do not let Charles excite yours hopes into thinking the populace anything of import. I found neither beauty nor sophistication in any of the members of the Assembly. Is this not so, Louisa?"

"You are quite correct, my dear. No breeding at all, and some of them were rather coarse to say the least."

"Indeed?" Darcy asked, merely to allow him to sip his wine and glance at Bingley listening to the less than favorable responses of his sisters.

"Oh, Mr. Darcy, it is all true. But now you are come, we will have no need to associate with such rough country folk. We will enjoy your more genteel and sophisticated refinements.

Bingley opposed Caroline's attempts to put a stop to his socializing as he enjoyed meeting new people and getting to know them, and replied to Darcy, "I had hoped you would accompany us at the next dance at the Assembly, Darcy, to have your opinion on some of the rather pleasant ladies in attendance, one in particular."

Darcy shook his head slightly and began to smile as he glanced at his friend. He thought, no doubt Bingley was in love...again, with some country lass this time. Darcy could not fathom how Bingley could fall in love so quickly...and frequently, but he had always done so from the first time they had met at Cambridge. Now Darcy knew he would be obligated to attend this next dance in order to judge for himself just how deeply was his friend's ardor this time, even though his inclination was not to socialize while here. After his ordeal regarding his sister he found he would rather enjoy familiarizing himself in the country on horse or on foot.

"I noted," he began, "that the scenery is quite pleasant and wished to know it better by traveling about-"

"What a wonderful idea," gushed Caroline, who always agreed with everything Darcy said. "We should all go visit some of the sites. I do love a carriage tour."

"As delightful as that sounds," continued Darcy, not to totally dissuade his friend's sister, but wishing not to encourage her either, "my plans were to go by horse, as I have ridden a new stallion, which I am currently training."

"We could join you then," began Caroline, but Bingley interrupted.

"Caroline, you know we have brought only the carriage horses, and my own stallion, which you are unable to seat."

"That is true, I am afraid, Mr. Darcy," Caroline pouted. "It seems you will have the country all to yourself while you ride. We will have to content ourselves to amuse you whenever you return after your ride."

"I shall look forward to it, Miss Bingley," he said as graciously as he could without being too encouraging.

She, however, beamed at the thought of him looking forward to her entertainment, and smiled at him, and then winked at her sister.

But the dawning of the next day and a steady down pour proved a detriment to Darcy's wish of riding around the countryside, and that left him to the amusement of Caroline and Louisa, much to his chagrin. His only relief was Bingley's offer of after dinner port in the library, to which he agreed to with little prodding. Thus fortified, he was able to be more charitable to both of Bingley's sisters as they played the pianoforte that evening.

By the second day of his visit, the sunshine proved the day would be pleasant, and Darcy took no time in dressing and making for the stables to ready his horse, its sleek dark coat shining in the morning sun. As Darcy mounted he decided in which direction he would travel first. Exploring a new area to get to know it better was one of the few pleasures he allowed himself, and would not let any at Netherfield further forestall him of the enjoyment this day. He heeled the flanks of his horse to begin his ride, comfortable in the knowledge that it would be a great delight.

Early this same morning found Elizabeth out for a walk, her aim to collect the delicate little yellow flowers she would add to the rose water perfume that Jane favored. She was not far from home, but far enough away to be almost at the boundary of the next estate of Netherfield, recently let by a gentleman from the North and whom they had met at the Assembly dance. She had little hope of finding the celandine, which usually flowered in spring, but this had been an exceptionally cool summer that may have lengthened its growing season.

Darcy had ventured beyond the usual route of the paths around Netherfield, and could no longer see the main house, with his goal being to allow his horse the opportunity of jumping some of the many hedges that were between properties. This had always been time-honored practice in which neighbors obliged one another for the enjoyment of the equestrians.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth had just spied the precious treasure of yellow celandine for which she had been seeking for almost an hour, and knelt to pick the youngest and most fragrant flowers and petals. She was so pleased with her find, and excited to have such an abundance of the flowers that she blocked out all of her other senses, and did not hear the sound of hooves approaching until it was too late to react.

Darcy likewise, was quite enjoying himself at being able to ride after two days of rain, his mind wandering, and was not aware of the danger as the horse began to jump the upcoming hedge. Suddenly he saw a girl half stand from the other side of the hedge, and instantly reacted to try to veer the horse away at the last second. He managed to change the horse's more direct arc so that he avoided hitting her full on, but one of the back hooves grazed her as the horse went over. He heard her faint cry and reined his horse to a halt, and turning it about, he spied her lying prone next to the hedge, her fallen basket toppled with tiny yellow flowers strewn about. He immediately jumped down to minister to her. As he knelt down he leaned his face close to hers to confirm that she was still breathing. He pulled his glove off to touch her cheek, and was taken aback at its softness.

He inhaled and gently shook her arms. "Please," he whispered. "Please awaken." She reacted to his warm breath so close to her face, and her eyes fluttered open. The relief on his face was apparent as he smiled when he saw she was awake. "Are you...are you unharmed? Can...you...sit up?"

"I...yes, I believe so."

He slowly helped her to a sitting position, supporting her with his arms.

"Ooooh." She moaned with pain as the bruise on her forehead continued deepening along side the gash of the horseshoe in evidence.

Darcy gently moved her curls to see how far up the gash extended into her hairline. He made a face as she winced.

"I am so sorry, Miss. I did not see you in time," he apologized.

She began to pant and tears formed in her eyes, her skin began to pale, and she began trembling, giving him signs that she was truly quite ill. He knew he would have to get her to help as soon as may be. "Can you stand so I may put you upon my horse to take you where you can get assistance?"

Still trembling, she had enough wits about her yet to tease him as she tried to control her tears, "I think...that I...have had quite enough from your horse already," and took a few deep breaths before she continued. "But if you will assist me, I shall endeavor to rise."

He smiled at the archness of this country girl's ability to jest at a time as this, and held her by her waist and arm to aid her to her feet. Although unsteady, she made the effort to remain standing with him holding on to her as she leaned on him and panted, her trembling more pronounced now. He thought to keep her warm and he withdrew his arm from the sleeve of his greatcoat while holding her against him with his other arm. Switching arms he managed to remove the coat, which he pulled around her shoulders. She felt the warmth of his heat still within the fabric along with the soft fragrance of sandalwood from his cologne. Her trembling lessened somewhat, but she remained quite unsteady.

He whistled and the large black horse came beside him. He picked her up with ease and sat her upon the saddle, noting that she couldn't have weighed more than his sister. He mounted behind her and slipped his right arm around her waist to hold her against him, her feet dangled beside his left leg. Darcy reined the horse left handed and felt her lean now more heavily into his chest, her trembling increasing. He heard her labored breathing, and heeled the horse forward in a fast walk, heading back to Netherfield. Though he knew not where she resided, he did know that Netherfield was barely a mile from their present location.

He kept trying to talk to her that she would remain awake, hoping that her head injuries were not as serious as he feared. "Do you live nearby, Miss...?"

"Yes," she whispered with effort.

"What is your name?"

"Elizabeth Ben...net," she mumbled, falling against his chest as she began to faint.

He halted his horse, and put his hand under her chin, and gently shaking her said, "You must stay awake, Miss Elizabeth. You must not faint. Can you hear me? Miss Elizabeth?"

"I...hear you..." she replied but her eyes remained closed. "What is...what is your name, sir?" He heeled the horse to walk once more.

"William Darcy. Fitzwilliam Darcy from Derbyshire. I am staying at Netherfield with my friend Charles Bingley."

Her eyes opened and she attempted to move her hand, managing only to pat his chest as she tried to smile. "Jane's Mr. Bingley," she whispered. "He is... nice"

"Yes," Darcy agreed, laughing softly as his legs commanded the horse to keep a steady gait on the way. "He is a most amiable person, is he not? But how do you know of him? Where did you meet?"

He could see her mind was having difficulty registering his questions, and her eyes blinked a few times as she tried to form words in answer. "At the Assembly... He danced..."

"Yes," Darcy replied smiling. "Bingley likes nothing better than a country dance, and has so stated on more than one occasion. And that is where you met him?"

"Yes, he danced with Jane."

"And who is this Jane?"

"Sister."

"Jane is your sister? And I suppose Bingley fell immediately in love with her, no doubt?"

"I... he is most kind and-"

"And, of course, Miss Jane likewise thinks herself in love with him as well?" Remarked Darcy thinking about all the fortune hunters of the town, but Elizabeth surprised him with her reply.

"She likes him a great deal but...must know him better to ascert... ascert-"

"Ascertain?" He aided her to finish her thought.

"Yes...if she is truly in love."

"Well," began Darcy with a higher regard for this unknown Jane. "It seems as though Miss Jane is a sensible girl then," he finished, owning that Jane had the wit to be careful in matters of the heart.

He noticed that Elizabeth was trying to fall asleep again, and he tried to keep her talking. They were almost back to Netherfield where he could get her more substantial help she truly required. He gently shook her shoulder until her eyes opened again, and tried to focus on him. "And what of you, Miss Elizabeth? You must have many young men knocking upon your door as well. Are you not also quite in love with one of them?"

Her mind became lucid for a few seconds, and her eyes were clear as they looked into his. Then she closed hers again and leaned on his chest snuggling closer and whispered, "No, I am determined not to ever marry unless...I have the deepest devotion and regard that...very few attain." She smiled and added mumbling, "Therefore, I will no doubt ...die an old maid."

To this remark he actually laughed aloud, which made her wince in pain as she leaned against his shaking chest. He realized his mistake saying, "I am sorry. Forgive me, but I find it hardly believable that you will never be destined to find a love for which you wish. You are so beautiful and quick witted."

"Most men prefer stupid girls," she answered using her father's words as she shuddered from the chill that was slowly overtaking her, and snuggled deeper into the warmth of his chest. He took note of this and his right arm hugged her tighter.

"Perhaps some men require their wives to be obtuse," he replied adding, "but there are also some of us who enjoy lively conversation along with a pretty face, and would wish to have the kind of wife that would be able to share the duties of the house and also have knowledge of art and literature."

She sighed, and looked up to regard him one last time. Using all her remaining energy to answer, her head fell again to his chest. "That is a heavy burden to lay at any woman's door. You will be hard pressed to find many such women, sir. I doubt you knowing as many as six."

Her hand fell from his chest then, but at first he hadn't realized she had fainted.

"I am sure that I am looking at one such lady at this very moment, one whom I am very much taken with, and would like to get to know better if she could but tell me her full name, and the location of her residence," he replied smiling.

When he got no reply, he halted his mount and looked down at her unconscious form. He shook her shoulder without result, and when he repeated his actions as he called her name, her head fell backwards. He caught and held her head to see that she was now gone from him, and panic seeped into his mind.

"Miss Elizabeth! Miss Elizabeth! You must stay awake. Please!" He shouted, but there was now no response from her. He pulled her head near to his, leaning close to her face, grateful that he could still feel her shallow breathing. Her lips were the color of the roses in the garden at Pemberley, and he suddenly wished he could show them to her. "You must awaken," he whispered to that lovely face, but she just remained deceptively peaceful in his arms, and his heart skipped a beat.

He held her close to his chest and hurried now to get to Netherfield as soon as possible. As the horse galloped, and he looked down at her now peaceful face, a great guilt came upon him at the thought that he was responsible for harming her. Never had he knowingly hurt another human being, much less a girl, and now he was fearful that she might die, might have already died in his arms. With eyes misting over, he held her closer to him, vowing that if she lived he would somehow make amends.

Chapter 2

"Have someone go fetch the doctor at once!" Darcy ordered.

Forbes left quickly to find the housekeeper while a maid timidly approached to relieve him of his hat & gloves, but he refused saying, "And have someone show me a room in which to place Miss Elizabeth. Now, girl!" He barked.

"Yes, sir. At once, sir," she squeaked and ran off down the hallway calling for the housekeeper who was now appearing with the butler who then left them.

"Mrs. Ellis, she is injured and I need to put her down for a doctor to examine her," Darcy began again getting frustrated with the lack of progress after entering the house. Mrs. Ellis was a shrewd and calm woman with the capacity to see in an instant what was required, and ordered the girl to run upstairs and have the chambermaid ready the corner room and snapped her fingers. The girl was up the stairs almost as quickly.

The housekeeper ordered a manservant brought in from the kitchen by the also perceptive Forbes to go have one of the stable hands convey a message to have Dr. Smyth come to Netherfield immediately. Only when that deed was accomplished did she look again directly at Darcy, saying to him, "This way, sir." Darcy began following her up the stairs when Bingley opened the study door, emerging, and wondered at all the shouting.

"I say, Darcy, what is this all about?" Seeing Darcy and his bundle he added with more concern, "What has happened?" and joined his friend going up the staircase.

"I was on horseback jumping a hedge when one of the hooves stuck her whilst she was bent to collect flowers and was unseen by me until too late. I have tried to keep her awake, but she fell unconscious just as we were arrived, and I can not now awaken her."

Darcy's face was filled with worry as both made their way down the hallway following the housekeeper to the far room and the bedchamber she had had the maid make ready. As Darcy entered the suite's sitting room and further into the bedchamber he gently laid the limp form on the bed, the housekeeper ordered the maid to fetch some cool water and towels.

Darcy sat in the chair beside the bed watching the housekeeper gently untie pale blue ribbons and remove Elizabeth's bonnet, both now quite stained. Mrs. Ellis expression was grim when she viewed the bruising about the left side of Elizabeth's fore head and cheek coupled with a bloody cut along side her hairline that seemed to have now clotted.

"There is not much blood," Mrs. Ellis said as if expecting much more, putting a cool compress on the wound she gently patted it. Elizabeth made a tiny moan of protest at this ministration.

"That is a good sign, is it not, Mrs. Ellis?" Bingley asked in a hopeful tone, choosing to wait by the doorway.

But Darcy saw the housekeeper knit her brows in a worried expression. "Sometimes there is more damage within than what is seen from without," she warned, rinsing the compress once more, and gently patting the wound again. Darcy saw Elizabeth's hand tighten into a fist as if trying to communicate her discomfort.

"Mrs. Ellis, I fear even your gentle ministration gives her pain," Darcy spoke softly.

The housekeeper gazed from his concerned face to where his eyes were focused, and nodded as she rinsed out the compress again and this time merely laid it across the wound saying, "The cool water may keep the swelling down. I will have the maid stay with her and continue to replace the compresses until Dr. Smyth arrives."

"I will do that," offered Darcy to the surprise of both Bingley and Mrs. Ellis.

She merely said in a tone that would brook no opposition, "No, you will not." When Darcy looked at her in confusion she added, "You, sir, must apply to her family to relate her condition."

"But I know not who she is. She only managed to state her first name before fainting. Miss Elizabeth-"

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet," Mrs. Ellis stated, having known the family her entire life. Bingley's eyes widened in shocked recognition, and he craned his neck now to see her face.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet? Jane's... Miss Bennet's sister? Why did I not recognize her at once?"

"Because I had her in my arms so that you perhaps could not see her face," Darcy offered. "Who is she? And who is this Miss Jane Bennet?"

"She is the one I wished for you to meet at the next Assembly dance. Her family lives at Longbourn, the estate not three miles from here."

"That does not explain why she was afoot," began Darcy, not thinking that a gentleman's daughter would go anywhere on foot.

"Miss Bennet mentioned her sister's pleasure of walking about the grounds often."

Having listened to Bingley's explanation, Darcy then made the point when he asked, "the question remains should we send a note to her family before the doctor arrives to give his diagnosis?"

Bingley said, "I think we should at the very least alert them that she has been injured, and that she is here receiving care, to have someone from her family come to attend her."

"When do you think the doctor will arrive?"

"Within the next hour, I would hope."

"Then, yes, a note to inform them of her condition would be prudent."

Bingley sat down at the desk in the sitting room to fashion the missive to Mr. Bennet while Darcy remained seated in the chair beside the bed staring at the figure upon it, the bruising on her forehead enlarging still. "Please awaken," he whispered to himself as the maid replaced the newly cooled compress on her forehead, her own fearful gaze moving from the unconscious girl to the gentleman seated beside her.

Bingley had the note finished and addressed and sent on its way within a few moments.

Dr. Smyth came not long after, and ushered the two men from the bedchamber. He told them he would examine Elizabeth and come down when he had made his evaluation of her condition.

As the gentlemen made their way down the hall to inform the others in residence of what had transpired, Bingley suggested, "You might wish to change your neckwear and waistcoat lest you frighten my sisters, Darcy." Only then did he look upon his appearance to see that like Miss Bennet's bonnet and ribbons, his attire was also stained from her injury. He had been so focused on obtaining help for her, he been oblivious to all else.

He nodded, and the two men separated for the time it took Darcy to enter his rooms and begin to remove the stained clothing. When his valet, Stanford, came out from the closet he was startled by the bloodied shirt, beneath the waistcoat Darcy had just removed, and with concern inquired, "Sir, are you wounded?"

Being assured that he was not, the valet proceeded to ask other questions which Darcy cryptically answered while they made him ready in pristine clothing once more. Stanford had been Darcy's valet for many years, and took meticulous care of Darcy's attire. And as the master left the room to meet again with Bingley in the hallway, the old valet went to the wet sink to rinse the stained waistcoat in the basin only to have the water become dark as he kneaded the material, for the front of the coat had been soaked through and onto the shirt. He sighed and wondered if the waistcoat would ever come clean again or would have to now be replaced. A second one followed this thought closely. If the blood was not the master's, then whose was it and what had the master become involved with to acquire it on his clothing?

The men retreated to the morning room to inform the remainder of the household of the incident and resulting circumstances. Upon hearing the events Caroline became indignant at the inconvenience of having to play nursemaid to some country nobody stupid enough to get in the way of a horse. But, of course, she had to sound sincere about wishing for the girl's health to return.

And in truth Caroline did wish it so, but only in order for that pert Eliza Bennet to be given back to her family as soon as possible. Caroline didn't want any competition to interfere with her plans of conquest now that Mr. Darcy had arrived. She gazed at her intended prize as the gentleman in question took up a position at the window, deep in thought.

Mr. Hurst remained unmoved from his assumed position of quiet concentration pretending to snooze on one of the couches, his eyes closed as he listened to his wife or perhaps it was his sister-in-law huff in the indignation of the situation. When he heard the door open, however, he sighed and assumed a sitting position to hear of what the doctor had to inform them.

Dr. Smyth was shown into the room and bowing addressed them. "Mr. Bingley, the injuries to Miss Bennet are very serious indeed. I have closed the cut along her hairline with several stitches and applied an herbal salve under a bandage that I have instructed your housekeeper to replace twice daily if I am not present to do so." He paused as they all stared at him.

He wished he could give them better news, but proceeded to inform them of his guarded diagnosis to allow them to rebound from his words. "From the force required to imprint such a bruise that I found extends also well within her hair, and her now unconscious state, I am reasonably certain that some brain bruising must have also occurred."

Mrs. Hurst gasped, thinking the girl would be an invalid for the rest of her life, but the doctor allayed her fears. "Be calm, madam," he told her, stating to the group, "Miss Bennet's injury is severe, but she is young and healthy, and I am hopeful she will not take long to awaken, perhaps sooner if she hears your voices around her. At the moment there is nothing to do but wait. I will return in the morning unless you send word that there is some dire change in her condition." Again he paused to give them time to absorb this news before he related his additional distressing fears.

When he saw they had become accepting of this he continued with, "I must forewarn you, however, that there may be some memory loss when she awakens as is common in these cases, but it will most likely return when she begins to relate to all of her friends and family."

He looked about the room at all the faces, some of whom were deeply concerned with the welfare of this young lady and sighed. Having seen this condition often, but rarely have it result in more than a mild concussion, Dr. Smyth was uncertain of the length of Miss Bennet's recovery, but he was hopeful that it would not be of a long duration.

"When would it be safe to have her removed to her own home?" Caroline asked, eliciting scowls from both Bingley and Darcy, and even an expression of disbelief from her own sister and Mr. Hurst. She defended her question by adding, "I am sure her family will be very concerned and would wish to have her be home that they may care for her in a familiar setting."

Dr. Smyth replied, "I recommend that she not be moved for the time being, Miss," adding, "I do not wish to aggravate her injury any further. Hopefully she will awaken within a short duration. At that time, I will make an assessment as to whether she is capable of travel."

"What type of care will she require after she awakens?" Bingley asked.

"When she is able to take sustenance, you should begin with clear broths, followed by soft foods. By the time she is able to take in more solid foods, her family will most likely be able to take her home again," the doctor replied. He gazed at the entire party waiting for more questions, but when no one said more he repeated, "I will return on the morrow unless you send word of the need for me to return earlier." And with another gaze at those occupying the parlor Dr. Smyth bowed and made his leave.

"Well," huffed Caroline finally sitting down heavily on the couch beside Louisa. "This is most inconvenient. I would never impose myself on any of my neighbors in this manner."

"Caroline," Bingley gently chided.

"This is the kind of artifice I would not put past the mother, who already has you practically engaged to the sister of this...this...upstart, country-"

"Caroline!" Bingley said, his disapproval clearly written on his face and in his voice.

Somewhat censured by her brother's obvious tone, Caroline softened hers somewhat as she continued with, "Oh, Louisa, do you not agree how decrepit is Mrs. Bennet's decorum in public?"

"Too true, Caroline," she responded in agreement with her sister of how Mrs. Bennet behaved at the last Assembly dance, adding with less enthusiasm than Caroline, "Shocking comportment, to be sure."

Thus bolstered, Caroline tirade continued. "And the sisters are nothing but crude country people without manners or breeding whom I found quite without merit." She glanced over at Mr. Darcy standing by the window, assured now that he was now aware of the more unseemliness of the locals who inhabited the surrounding estate and thereby raising her own status in his eyes.

He was obviously trying to avoid being pulled into a conversation for which he had no interest. His only thoughts were for the now unconscious girl upstairs, and his own guilt at having harmed her. His hands behind his back hid the nervous habit of twirling his signet ring. There was nothing to do now but wait for her to awaken. He sighed, hoping that it would be soon.

Seeing how upset the conversation had made her brother, Louisa mollified her next statement. "Oh, Jane Bennet is a sweet girl, Charles, but her family is not to be borne."

Caroline added, "And now to have the sister lying upstairs for us to have to attend."

"Miss Bennet did not become injured merely to cause you inconvenience, sister," Mr. Hurst imparted as he sat across from Caroline, adding his voice to the fray between his in-laws. All eyes were now upon the man and his cheeks became decidedly pink.

Caroline wouldn't even give words to her brother-in-law's comment, but only, "Humphed," and continued on. "Charles, you can see why we must send her home at once lest we be overrun with Bennets within the day."

"That is enough, Caroline," Bingley stated in a voice that let her know his patience was now at an end. "You heard Dr. Smyth state that at present she can not be removed. And we must now expect some of her family to arrive to determine her condition. You should remove yourself from their presence if you cannot refrain from expressing such comments."

Caroline saw everyone stare at her, clearly not in agreement with her opinions. She stood up and departed the room saying, "Then I shall be in my rooms until they depart, for I fear a headache coming on."

After the door closed behind his sister Bingley said quietly, "Mr. Bennet, I am sure will be arriving soon."

"Then I shall ring for tea, Brother," replied Louisa who sighed as she stood and went to take care of that errand. Only the gentlemen were left, each lost in their individual thoughts.

Mr. Hurst stated the obvious with, "Caroline's conduct in this matter will make for an unpleasant household, Bingley."

"Yes, that much is in evidence," Bingley sighed pouring a glass of port, offering it to his brother, and then pouring another for himself. He knew that Darcy would refuse a glass at this time of day, regardless of the circumstances.

After imbibing a significant amount of the wine in his glass, Mr. Hurst offered, "but we shall endure her breach of etiquette until the patient is sufficiently recovered to be removed to her own abode?"

"Yes," promised Bingley without much enthusiasm. " I will keep her within the bounds of decorum as long as I have houseguests." He swallowed a large sip of wine and glanced over to his friend standing again by the window. How had he inadvertently become embroiled in such a misfortunate situation when his only wish was to enjoy a quiet tarriance in the country?

"I am sorry to have your pleasant holiday be so encumbered, Darcy. I know this is not what you had in mind when you accepted my invitation to journey here," Bingley apologized to his most dear acquaintance.

Darcy turned then from the window, and stared at his long time friend who seemed as dismayed as he at the now difficult circumstance. "It cannot be helped, Bingley. My failure to properly guide my horse over the hedge has caused all this upon your house, and I am truly remorseful for it. If there is anything I can do now to alleviate it somehow, I am at your disposal."

"I think you should be present when Mr. Bennet arrives to relate the entirety of the event," suggested Bingley hopefully, not wishing to address the elder gentleman alone.

"Of course," Darcy acknowledged, wanting to admit his guilt in the matter to the girl's father.

"I thank you, Darcy," Bingley sighed relieved, as all three men waited in the parlor for the coming of the Bennets.

Chapter 3

"Mr. and Miss Bennet," Mr. Forbes announced. The couple entered the room with Mrs. Ellis who waited by the door, as instructed. Bingley bowed and began introductions.

"Mr. Bennet, Miss Bennet. You remember my brother, Mr. Hurst."

"Sir," Mr. Bennet bowed slightly. Jane remained silent, and merely curtseyed.

"And may I present my friend, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy."

"Mr. Bennet, Miss Bennet."

"Mr. Bingley," the gentleman from Longbourn said in a curt tone, "if you do not mind, I have need to see my Lizzie without undo haste." It was obvious to all of his state of worry.

"Of course," Bingley agreed readily. "Mrs. Ellis will take you to her. Mrs. Ellis, if you please."

"Yes, sir, Mr. Bingley," Mrs. Ellis replied and turned to leave to have the couple follow her. "This way, sir, miss."

"Thank you, sir," replied Jane. And she too turned and accompanied her father from the room. Darcy followed them leaving both Bingley and Hurst in the library.

As they ascended the stairs, Mr. Bennet glanced at Darcy and asked the tall gentleman, "The note stated nothing of how my Lizzie was injured, only that she was here and receiving medical care. Have you knowledge as to how she came to be harmed?"

"Yes, sir," sighed Darcy, wishing that he alone be blamed and not his friend. "It was I who was at fault."

"You, sir? How?"

"I was on horseback, and jumping the hedges between the estates."

Not at first realizing the import of this statement, Mr. Bennet merely replied, "a pleasant pastime for those still young enough to enjoy the sport."

"Yes, sir. But unbeknownst to me, your daughter was kneeling on the opposite side of the selfsame hedge as I approached on horse."

This stopped Mr. Bennet of forward movement to stare at Darcy, who saw how terribly upset the elderly gentleman became at this disclosure. "You trampled my Lizzie under your horse!"

"No, sir!" Darcy was quick to stay Mr. Bennet's alarm, rushing to add, "I was able to veer the horse from her at the last second so as to avoid that."

"Merciful heaven! Thank the Almighty for that! " Mr. Bennet closed his eyes and gave an additional silent prayer of thanks.

His discomposure subsided somewhat into milder anxiety at this declaration, but then his anxious mien altered into irritation at the next statement made by the young man.

"But I failed to avoid her completely, sir," said Darcy, his tone remorseful. "A hoof from the horse struck her a severe blow to the head as it went over."

Here Mr. Bennet stared up at this man as Darcy added, "she was alert when I brought her here to gain medical care, but fell unconscious soon after, and has yet to awaken."

Mr. Bennet took several deep breaths to regain his composure at this amended and most distressing account of Lizzie's condition, and pushing Darcy aside to continue down the hallway said only, "I would see her."

"This way, sir," Mrs. Ellis said as she opened the door to the sitting room. Mr. Bennet led the trio into the sitting room, and upon seeing Mrs. Ellis motion him further to the bedroom, he entered it with Jane close upon his heels. Darcy followed but stopped at the doorway.

When Mr. Bennet and Jane gained entry into the bedroom they both gasped at the sight of Elizabeth lying abed so still, and quiet, her head bandaged but the large bruise still evident. Jane immediately knelt down at the bedside and held Elizabeth's hand, caressing her cheek tenderly. "Oh, Lizzie," she sighed, her tears forming to fall upon the pillow.

Darcy watched, wishing he might again touch her soft cheek, see her beautiful eyes open to his voice.

Approaching the bed, and taking hold of her hand, Mr. Bennet's eyes also misted with sorrow that his lovely witty daughter was now so devastated, and he grew angry with the person he now knew was responsible. He could barely contain his wrath as he asked the man, "and you say she was awake before you moved her? Why then did you take it upon yourself to carry her here to aggravate her condition?"

"Sir, she was awake, that is true," replied Darcy calmly, without regard to Mr. Bennet's angry tone, knowing it to be the obviously distraught father's reaction to seeing his daughter thus. He only added in his defense of moving her by saying, "but she was in such distress that my only thought was to get her to medical aid as soon as may be."

"If she was awake surely you asked her name and residence. Why did you not take her home?"

"I did inquire after her identity, sir, and where she resided, but was unsuccessful in my attempt before she fainted."

"And so you brought her to Netherfield instead of home."

"I had no other recourse, sir, for I knew not the neighborhood, having only been in country but two days," Darcy answered.

"Just enough time to wreak havoc," Mr. Bennet whispered through clenched teeth. To this statement Darcy remained silent.

Finally Mr. Bennet rose from the bed and said to Jane, "I will have both yours and Lizzie's trunks packed and sent over that you may stay with her, Jane. Perhaps your gentle voice and presence will bring her around sooner."

"Thank you, father," Jane whispered, hugging him. He kissed her forehead and made to leave the room with Darcy accompanying him; both men were silent retracing the entire way back to the library.

Upon entry Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst silently arose from their seats. Mr. Bennet sat down heavily upon the couch facing the three men, and they all again took chairs.

"Sir, you have my word," Bingley promised, "that Miss Bennet will receive the best of care while she is here."

"Of that I am sure, Mr. Bingley," began Mr. Bennet, his ill-temper in evidence as he added, "what I am not sure of is if she will recover at all!"

Mr. Bingley's hopeful countenance disintegrated into one of anxious distress as he came out of the chair. "What? Has...has there been any change for the worst?"

"No, Bingley," offered Darcy to allay his friend's fears. "There has been no change in Miss Bennet's condition."

"Oh," Bingley sighed, his manner calming as he dropped into his seat once more.

After a pause, Mr. Bennet, he growing calmer in the face of this crisis, asked, "And Dr. Smyth told you that all we could now do is wait for her to regain consciousness?"

"Yes, sir," Mr. Bingley affirmed. "Dr. Smyth was here within the hour of Darcy's bringing her to us, and was most encouraging that she would soon awaken, Mr. Bennet. He did, however, give us warning of some possible memory loss, which he allowed was common in a head injury, and that we should not be unduly alarmed. He further stated he would return on the morrow to see if there were any changes, and would be at our disposal between now and then should we have need of him."

Mr. Bennet nodded, feeling helpless in handling this situation when Darcy added, "Sir, if you wish, I would bear the cost to send for a physician from town-"

"I have no need of your money, sir," Mr. Bennet answered angrily.

Darcy remained calm as he replied, "that is not what I offered. But if you wish, I could have a physician fetched to you who may have special knowledge of this type of injury."

Mr. Bennet rubbed his forehead with his fingers and Mr. Hurst offered him a glass of whisky. Accepting the glass he sipped the amber fluid, and sighed and nodded. "I apologize for my outburst, Mr. Darcy. This is quite distressing for me."

"Say nothing of it," Darcy replied.

"You are all too young to know perhaps," Mr. Bennet further explained. "But when you have children you will know the constant dread you feel about having them succumb to harm through illness or accident."

Darcy closed his eyes and could relate to Mr. Bennet's plight as he recalled how distraught he felt of having recently saved his sister from an infamous elopement by the slimmest of margins, and how helpless he felt at his own failures to keep her from harm of a different kind.

He was brought back to the present with Mr. Bennet's continued statement. "Mr. Darcy, I know it was no one's fault. It was an accident of which I do not hold you responsible. And I thank you for your prompt attention to my Lizzie to obtain for her the medical care she required."

"Sir," Darcy acknowledged the gentleman's absolution with a slight bow, but by no means did he acquit himself of his guilt in the matter.

"And as to the offer of a London physician, I would prefer to wait for a day or two to see if Lizzie awakens on her own. If Dr. Smyth concurs, then we will assess her condition of the need of a specialist."

Darcy nodded, agreeing with the gentleman, not wishing to cause the gentleman any more distress over the situation.

"I am leaving Jane here to attend to Lizzie, and will have her things brought over."

Bingley replied, "Of course, sir, we will do everything to make her stay more comfortable...for as long as may be." Hurst rolled his eyes, knowing that to his brother it was as if he had just been given an early Christmas gift in the form of Miss Bennet to whom Bingley was becoming quite attached.

With that arrangement confirmed, Mr. Bennet rose to remove himself to Longbourn to inform his household of the events of the day. Bingley followed him to the door where Mr. Bennet collected his hat, greatcoat, and cane, and followed him out to the carriage.

"I will send news if there is any change, sir. You can count on me."

"I certainly hope so, Mr. Bingley. I certain hope so, indeed," sighed Mr. Bennet as he entered his carriage and slumping in the seat tapped the roof to signal the driver to depart.

Chapter 4

Posted on Monday, 15 September 2003

Initially, everyone concerned with Elizabeth hopefully waited for her to regain consciousness within the day, but when this did not occur, and as she seemed in no immediate danger, they all sat down in the drawing room over tea to decide what was to be done in the interim.

Bingley offered, "Miss Bennet, the great task of caring for your sister, of course, falls primarily upon you, but I...we all can come in to give you a respite several times over the course of the day."

"That is most thoughtful," Jane replied smiling at Bingley who could do no more than smile back.

"And do what, Bingley?" asked Darcy having gathered that Bingley's major intention was to be nearer to Miss Jane Bennet at those times, but Bingley surprised him with his answer.

"The doctor implied that perhaps Miss Elizabeth might hear us. I thought I would talk to her about the goings on here at Netherfield, of my thinking of giving a ball, or read some work of literature to her. Darcy, I know you have brought several books to read from your great collection. And I remember from our days at Cambridge that you had a great voice during debates. Perhaps you could make yourself available to read some play from Shakespeare to her."

Jane's face lit up at the mention of that great writer. "Oh, yes, Mr. Darcy. Lizzie has read many of his works as well as Cowper and Dunne and...many others I cannot remember."

Although somewhat nonplussed that this young country girl would have a love of the classics, Darcy merely raised his eyebrows replying, "Indeed? Then I shall endeavor to give up some of my time likewise to read to her when you have need of some respite, Miss Bennet."

"You are most kind, Mr. Darcy," Jane said smiling more to Bingley than to Darcy.

Not wishing to be left out of the conversation, Caroline replied, "Louisa and I could also come to give you some relief, Jane," glancing over at Darcy she added, "perhaps when Mr. Darcy comes in to read." Mr. Hurst sipped more of his wine and snorted at Caroline's veiled attempts at courting the gentleman, who had absolutely no interest in her.

"You are so generous, Caroline," was Jane's reply, adding as she put down her embroidery to return again to keep her vigil on Elizabeth, "I am sure Lizzie would wish me to thank you for all your efforts on her behalf." And arising along with the gentlemen she added, "I should get back to her to help with changing her bandages. Again, thank you all for your offers of help."

Caroline's smile lasted only at long as it took for Jane to remove herself from the room. Then an exasperated sighed emerged from Miss Bingley thinking of how put upon she was to have to care for this uncultivated nobody indefinitely. Then glancing Darcy's way, she realized that she would do whatever it took to have him realize that she was his best choice to become the Mistress of Pemberley.

For the next few days a loose schedule was set up for people to come in and read or in Bingley's case speak to Elizabeth, as she lay in bed, motionless. The housekeeper, Mrs. Ellis, made sure that a maid was always in attendance to take care of any other matters of care for this young woman whom her master had befriended.

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst did make appearances for very short durations, managing to cohere with Mr. Darcy's reading schedule only once while Jane rested in her room, adjacent to Elizabeth's. The rest of the times they were relegated to chatting with Jane and working on embroidery while Elizabeth did not stir.

Jane, being the main caregiver, was in Elizabeth's room constantly, brushing her long hair and gently washing her face, talking to her in a soothing voice like she did when they were little. Jane even struggled to read to Elizabeth from one of Lizzie's favorite books of Wordsworth. And though she could not deduce its complete meaning as Lizzie could, she tried. But more often than not she reverted to simpler poems that she could recite and understand.

She stayed close to the bed caressing Elizabeth's cheek and holding her hand and prayed for her at night while kneeling by the bed. Jane kept up her care as she spooned in trickles of water for Lizzie to swallow, rubbed a drop of lanolin on Lizzie's lips so they would be supple and not crack, and cried softly in moments of despair. But Jane would then rally once more, chastising herself, and tell Lizzie of the hope she had of her recovery, and how she was awaiting the rose water Elizabeth had promised to make for her. Jane barely ate or slept with her constant tending to Elizabeth.

After three days Jane showed signs of fatigue from the stress and lack of sleep, though she never complained or asked for any of their help. When Darcy entered to read as he had agreed to from the previous day to give Miss Bennet a respite, he noticed that Jane had fallen asleep in the chair by the window, her embroidery still lightly in her hand. He took it upon himself to allow her to continue to remain in this manner without disturbing her. Instead he silently sat in the chair beside the bed, opening his book to read.

And though it appeared somewhat inappropriate with Miss Bennet and he in the sick room, Darcy believed that the maid being present, always monitoring nearby would stay any hint of impropriety. He waited while she changed the dressing from Miss Elizabeth's wound. Many of the staff hired by Bingley had been from around the village and knew of the Bennets and of Elizabeth in particular as being witty and kind with a wry sense of humor that kept everyone in good spirits. He sighed feeling his guilt come upon him again as he wished for the opportunity to experience that wit of hers once more.

He watched the maid's very gentle touch to finish reapplying the salve before the bandage, noting that the bruising had already begun to fade and the cut was healing with the doctor's excellent work. As Darcy continued to watch he realized that he was not alone in his wish, for the entire staff of Netherfield was deeply concerned about Elizabeth's well being, and went out of their way to aid in any task asked of them if it would be of help.

When the maid had completed her task and moved from the side of the bed, Darcy again looked down at the book in his lap. He thought that Miss Jane seemed the most stressed of he, she and Bingley, and so was glad that he too could provide her with even this short reprieve, and began to read aloud. His soothing voice lulled Jane into a deeper trusting slumber.

Darcy, seated in the chair beside Elizabeth's bed, rested his hand on the counterpane while reading a poem by Dunne. As the words flowed from him he felt her hand gently touch his and take hold of it. He stopped reading and looked from his hand to her face, watching her eyes flutter open. He leaned over very close to her whispering, "Miss Elizabeth?"

Her gaze moved from all about the room returning to his eyes. He could see that she was frightened.

"Miss Bennet," he repeated softly, looking hopefully into her eyes. "Are you...how do you feel?"

He could tell by her stare that she didn't seem to know him now, just as the doctor had warned them. Jane stirred just then and saw that Elizabeth had awakened, and rushed over to the bed, and took her hand.

"Lizzie! I am so happy you have awakened. How does your head feel?" Jane gushed squeezing her sister's hand.

Lizzy looked at Jane without recognition, and so was still frightened and panting. With a tiny voice she asked, "who are you?"

Jane was surprised, and replied, "I am your sister, Jane, Lizzie."

"You are not!" Lizzy voiced her denial, her voice higher in pitch than usual, and with the same tiny child-like voice that sounded fearful she continued. "You...are a lady."

Jane didn't know what to think, and stood mute, looking into Elizabeth's face, wondering if she was teasing.

Darcy intervened with a soft voice. "Miss Elizabeth?"

"My name is Lizzie," she corrected. "Mama only calls me Elizabeth if I am naughty." Her large frightened eyes looked into his kindly ones.

He nodded and smiled. "Lizzie," he corrected himself and with sudden insight asked her, "do you know how old you are?"

Jane's mouth dropped open, as she looked confused at Darcy who never ceased looking at Lizzie. He put his hand up to stay Jane's questions. Jane was even more confused when Lizzie answered.

"I am this many," was Lizzie's reply in the same child-like voice, and in a child-like way she held up five fingers on her right hand, watching as she mentally counted.

"Are you five years of age?" affirmed Darcy as he talked gently to her.

"Um Hum. And Jane is almost seven, this many," and she held up the fingers on both her hands trying to bend down several. He repressed a smile, and then exchanged worried expressions with Jane, both of them now realizing Elizabeth had lost more of her memory than anyone had anticipated.

Jane was very worried. "Mr. Darcy, what are we to do about this? Should we have the doctor sent for?"

Trying to keep his voice calm he said, "Yes, Miss Bennet, most definitely, for I have never before witnessed anything of this nature."

They were trying to decide who should be the one to leave to keep from alarming Lizzie when Caroline swept into the room without even knocking and noticed Elizabeth at last had awakened.

"Oh, Eliza," she remarked in a loud voice. "I see you are finally back among the living. That is a good sign."

But the now child-like Lizzie reacted to the sharpness of the tone of Caroline's voice which was coated with such insincerity, and her eyes opened wide with fright and cringed leaning into Darcy chest to protect her, and she only had enough courage to ask in a whisper, "make her go away. Please."

"Miss Bingley, she just now awakened, and is somewhat...disoriented. We should let her rest," Darcy answered, feeling Lizzy clinging to his coat, hiding her face.

"Yes, I quite agree," seethed Caroline with barely veiled contempt for this uncultured person clinging to Mr. Darcy no doubt with designs upon him already. "She should be left to...her sister's tender care. You may escort me downstairs to supper. Jane, I will inform the staff to bring something for you and Eliza."

Darcy had no wish to leave Elizabeth in such a fragile frame of mind, especially as she was just now depending on him as her protector, and calmly answered, "I will be down directly, Miss Bingley. Would you be most kind and relate Miss Bennet's changed condition to your brother." He paused and added, "I would be most appreciative."

Caroline started to say something as she saw Lizzie's frightened face peeking out from behind Darcy's shoulder. Then decided that if Mr. Darcy would be pleased with her efforts she would be silent at this time. "I will do whatever you wish, Mr. Darcy," came her sincere reply, and she turned and exited the room in a loud swish of organza.

Jane swallowed, and continuing their conversation before Caroline's entry she asked the most pertinent question on her mind. "Mr. Darcy, what are we to do? How are we act towards Lizzie before Dr. Smyth comes?"

"Until he advises us as to how to proceed, perhaps it would be best if we...indulged Lizzie for the time being. What have you to say on the matter?"

Jane expression was one of worry as she tried to decide if she agreed with Mr. Darcy. She reasoned that Dr. Smyth would arrive within a few hours at most, and that if it kept Lizzie calm to allow her this illusion just for that amount of time perhaps it would be best. "Without any authority to tell us otherwise I suppose we must do as you say, sir."

"Please," whispered Lizzie. "Is the mean lady gone? She will not come back, will she?" Then finding some courage inside, she voiced her opinion. "I hate her!"

"Lizzie!" admonished Jane as though she were speaking to a child.

"S-She scares me, Miss," Lizzie said in a tone of a child on the verge of tears.

Darcy's voice remained calm. "We will endeavor to...we will try...to keep her from you," he replied, looking into Lizzie's eyes to show her that he was sincere.

Lizzie tried to feel assured as she nodded. "You...a nice man."

"Thank you, Miss Lizzie," he said patting her hand. "You must have many questions," he said trying to divert her fears.

"Who...who are you?"

"I am Mr. William Darcy."

She looked around the room again. "This...is not my room. "

"No, you are at Netherfield at present."

A confused expression played across her face. "Big house next to mine?"

"That is correct."

"Why?"

"You had an accident and hurt your head." Darcy pointed to her healing wounds adding, "I brought you here to get you help."

"Not...home?"

Jane answered, "Mr. Darcy did not know who you were or where you lived, Lizzie. And you could not tell him when you were injured."

"I...hurt my head?" She felt her head and the bandage there.

"A horse's hoof struck you, Lizzie, and then you fell asleep. You have been asleep for three days."

Lizzy's eyes widened as she exclaimed, "three whole days?"

Jane smiled saying, "yes, but now you are awake, and we are all so happy."

"Mama and Papa too?"

"You just now awoke, Lizzie, so they do not yet know."

"Let us go tell."

"I will write them a note."

Lizzie stared at Jane, her confusion returning. "Can we not just tell them?"

"They remained at Longbourn."

"Not here?" Lizzie's bottom lip began to tremble.

"No, Lizzie. The doctor was afraid to move you while you were asleep."

"But can I go home now?"

"As soon as the doctor comes, if he allows, then yes, we can go home."

Lizzy's bewilderment again showed in her face with Jane's statement. "You too?"

"Yes, Lizzie."

"Who are you?"

"I am Jane, Lizzie."

"My siser's name is Jane."

"Yes, I know...and I have been caring for you while have been here."

"Just like my siser."

"I was hoping that you would allow me to continue to care for you."

"Like Jane?"

The smile Lizzie gave Jane was more than her older sister could endure at having Lizzie back again, whatever her state. She sat upon the bed holding back tears and hugged her saying, "Yes, Lizzie. And I am very glad you are now awake." She smiled down at her dear sister who nodded.

Lizzie rubbed her eyes with the back of her hand in a very child-like manner and sat up in the bed. "I am hungry."

Jane asked, "Would you like me to get you something to eat, Lizzie?"

"Yes, please," Lizzie's eyes lit up thinking of porridge.

Jane said to Lizzie smiling, "Let me go to the kitchen and see what cook can manage." She looked at Darcy adding, "I will alert Mr. Bingley to ask that the doctor be sent for as well."

"No." Darcy decided that he should be the one to leave so that the sisters may have time to re-acquaint themselves to ensure Lizzie have another person to rely on besides himself. "You remain, Miss Bennet. I should be the one to go to the kitchen. You stay with Miss...Lizzie to keep her calm." And with a smile, he rose, starting for the door.

As he left the two sisters, he overheard a part of their conversation.

"When can I go home?"

"I know not, Lizzie."

"I want Papa."

"I know, dear Lizzie. I know."

Upon departing the bedchamber Darcy went directly in search of Bingley, finding him in the billiards room while awaiting the announcement of dinner. Banking a shot off the side of the table to hit a ball near the end pocket, Bingley did not notice Darcy's grave expression.

Cheerfully he said, "Caroline found me to say that Miss Elizabeth is now awake. That is a relief, is it not, Darcy?"

But when his friend did not reply, Bingley stood up staring at Darcy, knowing something was amiss. Darcy told him of the new circumstances of Elizabeth's so altered condition that compelled them to send for the doctor.

Surprise overtook Bingley as he asked, "She thinks she is a child of five?"

"Yes," acknowledged Darcy. "She has forgotten all her memories from that age to the present. Clearly even the doctor had not anticipated such a circumstance when he forewarned us of some memory loss."

"Do you think she should be removed to Longbourn?"

"I am not certain. You had mentioned Mrs. Bennet and the younger sisters as being somewhat...excitable. I wonder at Miss Bennet getting the same level of care that can be provided in this more tranquil environment at present. That would, of course, necessitate keeping both Miss Bennets at Netherfield for a time."

"Yes," agreed Bingley. "I would wish for Miss Bennet to remain for as long as may be...for Miss Elizabeth's sake."

Darcy agreed adding, "We will await Dr. Smyth to see what he determines would be best."

The doctor agreed with the two men that it was too early to have Lizzie removed to Longbourn, instructing them to watch that she have no relapse, and he would return several times over the course of the next week to make sure her injuries were healing properly and to note any progress of her regaining her memories.

And though Jane hesitated, thinking of their staying as a great imposition, she finally agreed to their plan, and took herself from the room to pen a note to her father to apprise him of these new developments. Her departure left the rest of the household in the drawing room to assess the situation.

Caroline couldn't abide the two Bennet sisters remaining even longer to take over her household, technically Charles' house, but he would not think of any other arrangements at this time.

"This is not to be borne, Charles, to have not one but two Bennets here indefinitely. Now that she is awake, why can we not send her home?"

"Caroline, Dr. Smyth wishes for her to remain here for a few more days to ensure against a worsening of her condition," Bingley reiterated.

Louisa stated with an annoyed sigh, "if she had been whole when she awoke, then we would know how to tend to her needs."

"Yes, that it would have been simpler," agreed Mr. Hurst pouring a glass of port.

"But with this memory loss so complete what is to be done with her?" Louisa asked.

"I know not, but we will adjust to the task." Charles stated cheerfully.

"And how is her illusion to alter her behavior?" asked Hurst, realizing the difference in a comatose patient from one who is now awake and able to move about.

"That is something we have as yet to discover," Darcy said softly, also wondering what new developments would transpire.

"You say she now has the mind of a very young child? Must we then to treat her as such?" Caroline asked, her tone showing her lack of patience with this new situation.

"Yes, Dr. Smyth thought it best for the time being," Charles acknowledged.

"Oh dear," sighed Louisa in a sullen resignation. "This could be difficult."

"Why would you say that, Louisa?" Charles asked.

Louisa stated, "because I remember what both of you were like at that age, and at times it was not pleasant."

Charles's confusion was clearly written on his face as he stated, "I have not the privilege of understanding you."

Louisa pointed to her younger brother citing, "You were a child who was forever in the mud," and then pointing to her younger sister stated, "and you would not mind any of the servants and talked back to your governess."

Both Bingley and Caroline showed embarrassment at being reminded of occasions that they obviously had tried to blot from their minds, while Mr. Hurst and Darcy hid their smiles at the images Louisa had conjured up.

"Father took a firm hand with all of us not long afterwards." With this statement Bingley's face drained of color as he reflected back to his childhood.

But Caroline merely shrugged and stated in a determined and pleased tone, "Then we will have to use the same methods he did with us."

Both Louisa and Charles paused as they stared at one another in indecision. Even Mr. Hurst, who Louisa had regaled with stories of her upbringing, hesitated that so harsh a method of discipline would be needed or useful in this case. Darcy, being quite discerning at reading faces noticed how the three faltered at Caroline's suggestion, wondering if this method would be inappropriate, even detrimental to Miss Elizabeth's recovery.

At that moment they heard the door open, and Jane returned to a room full of somber faces. "What is the matter? Has something happened?"

"No, nothing," Bingley assured her. "We were in discussion as to how to deal with a...what is the proper treatment of a child of five."

"Oh," Jane said simply seating herself next to Caroline and smiling. "And what have you all decided?"

"Well," started Bingley uncertainly. "We...have only begun to speak on the topic. Have you any insight to add?"

"I have taken care of my sisters, and more recently tended to my young cousins, who are adorable and well mannered. I rarely have to correct them, they are such dear children."

"Then with your experience you will be the main one to give Lizzie any discipline she requires while here."

"Discipline?"

With Jane obviously confused, Darcy tried to explain the dilemma the group had regarding Lizzie. "Miss Bennet, since we are to treat Lizzie as a child, there should be rules of conduct for her age."

"Of course."

"And," added Caroline, "a method of discipline should she break any rules."

"I see," Jane said.

Darcy offered, "I have raised my sister with a gentle hand, and she has turned out extremely well. As Miss Bennet has just informed us of her familiarity with her young charges, she will no doubt agree to a more gentle approach."

"Yes, I can admonish Lizzie for any offense she makes while here," Jane agreed readily.

Three adults sighed in relief at this alternate suggestion, and almost as one nodded in agreement.

"Excellent idea. We will all try the gentler approach, then," Bingley sighed smiling.

"Eliza was a willful, head-strong woman," warned Caroline. "Now as a child she will test you at every turn unless you keep her under a stern hand."

Jane recollected some of Lizzie's behavior from that age and sighed, not wholly disagreeing with Caroline's assessment, but remained silent.

"Well, it will only be for a few days, Caroline," Bingley piped in cheerfully. "I think we can all handle her child-like behavior for that amount of time."

Caroline snorted and shook her head, realizing she could not dissuade them. But it did not mean she had to agree to it.

"I am sure all will be fine until she be allowed to return to Longbourn," Charles said trying to appease his sister of her doubts and assure himself of the soundness of the plan.

Chapter 5

Posted on Thursday, 25 September 2003

Lizzie had been so frightened when she first awoke in a strange house and to stranger's faces, but Jane never left her bedside. She held Lizzie's head in such a warm embrace as Lizzie clung to her. "All will be well, Lizzie," she whispered to her grown up sister who now acted like the child of a much earlier time. Jane's kind nature and sweet smile calmed Lizzie as no one else could.

"Will you stay with me?"

"Yes, Lizzie. I shall be with you always if you need me."

Jane felt Lizzie's arms tighten around her waist, and her face snuggle deeper into her bosom as Jane stroked her long brown tresses. With Jane's gentle rocking and her soft humming Lizzie was lulled into a gentle sleep, a natural sleep that lasted for an entire hour.

A knock on the door and Jane's reply to enter awoke Lizzie. The maid came in with a tray, and smiled at the two ladies as she set the tray on the table by the bed.

"I brought you some vittles that the cook prepared, Miss. I hope it's to your liking."

"I am sure it will be fine, Susan." Jane looked down at Lizzie's head still in her arms. "Lizzie, this is Susan. She is to be with us while we are in this house, and will help us with whatever our needs. Is this not so, Susan?"

"Oh, yes ma'am. I have been assigned to you by the master hisself. He told me I was to help you with anything you wished."

"Lizzie, Susan has brought you some food. Would you like to try to eat something?" Jane's smile calmed Lizzie who only nodded and sat up while Susan brought over the bowl of broth, which she handed to Jane.

"Mmmm, this smells good," Jane said enticing Lizzie and propping her up with pillows. "Would you like to taste it, Lizzie?"

Lizzie nodded and Jane spooned a taste into Lizzie's mouth. After the first spoonful, Lizzie's spirits began to climb with the tasty soup, and Jane gave her the spoon to feed herself the remainder.

"That was wonderful, Susan," Jane said giving the bowl back to the maid. "Would you tell the cook we are very grateful."

"Yes, ma'am. And there is cheese and bread if you are still hungry."

"Thank you, Susan. We will eat it later if you leave it there."

"Yes, ma'am," said the maid as she curtseyed with a smile. She left the room glad that the young lady had now awakened.

Jane saw Lizzie yawn, and said, "You have had a long day, Lizzie. You need to rest more so your head will mend faster." And she tucked the covers around her sister lovingly.

" You...you won't leave me, siser?"

"I will stay with you all night while you sleep, Lizzie," Jane promised, lying down on the bed beside her sister, both of them taking up a goodly portion of the bed. Hugging her, Jane whispered, "Try to sleep now."

As Jane lay beside Lizzie, it was as though the years had reversed to that much earlier time. Inside this grown up form of her sister was the mind of the Lizzie she remembered from her childhood. And as before, Lizzie became Jane's charge to care for until Lizzie somehow became whole again.

Though Lizzie did not recognize Jane, there was some unseen bond between the two sisters that even amnesia could not completely obscure. The child-like Lizzie trusted this Jane; she somehow knew Jane above all others was the one constant on which she could depend. Nothing would sway Lizzie's trust. And with such trust firmly established, Lizzie was able to fall asleep again in the warmth of her sister's arms, and whispering Jane's promise, "all will be well."

This faith in her sister's love and devotion gave Lizzie the confidence to begin to interact with everyone in the house. That confidence manifested itself the first morning after her awakening. Jane had departed the room out of necessity, and upon returning she saw that the bed now seemed unoccupied, and Lizzie no longer appeared to be in the room. At first Jane became frantic, her breathing rapid, her heart racing when she heard muffled giggles coming from beneath the piles of covers and eiderdown counterpanes.

Sitting on the bed Jane smiled and her fingers kneaded her forehead calming her, and she said aloud, "Oh, dear. I wonder where Lizzie is. She is not abed. I suppose I shall have to be alone today."

More giggles came from the covers, and Lizzie emerged saying, "Here I am, siser!" Though adult size Lizzie nonetheless crawled child-like over the bed beside Jane, smiling at her prank.

"Here you are! I missed you, dear Lizzie." Jane hugged her, remembering this ritual from so long ago of Lizzie's favorite game of 'hide and seek', and knew that it would be repeated each morning.

"Siser, I am big now."

Jane's voice remained calm. "You are?"

"Uh huh. When did I grow?"

"Pardon?"

"When I was asleep?"

"Lizzie, what do you mean?"

"I was asleep for three days?"

"Yes, Lizzie."

"Did I grow big when I was asleep?"

"Why do you think it so?"

"I am too big to hide under the bed now," replied the insightful Lizzie.

"Indeed?"

"Did I grow big in three days?"

"Lizzie, you...you did grow big, but..." Jane told her trying to decide what else to say.

Concerned, Lizzie then asked, "Will I keep growing?"

"No," Jane assured her. "I think you have stopped growing now."

There was a pause before Lizzie spoke again. "I saw myself in the dressing mirror." When Jane remained silent, Lizzie said, "I look like a grownup."

Jane nodded, but did not know how to respond.

Lizzie asked, "When people get big...do they always look like grownups?"

"Yes, Lizzie. They always do." This allayed some of Lizzie's fear at not understanding what had happened to her. "You are very pretty, Lizzie."

"Mama says siser is pretty." Jane smiled and hugged her sister.

"You are likewise, Lizzie."

Lizzie shrugged then smiled. "I like to be big like you, siser."

Jane smiled but said no more of it. Trying to divert Lizzie's thoughts Jane suggested, "Well, if we get dressed, we may have some breakfast sent up, if you are hungry."

Lizzie nodded again and Jane began to help her dress wondering how else to answer if Lizzie asked more pertinent questions of her size or appearance. And she made an effort to keep Lizzie's view away from the dressing table's mirror while she and the maid curled Lizzie's hair.

After breakfast, Jane tried to interest Lizzie in embroidery, showing her how the needle goes through the top of the fabric and comes out the other side. As with all inquisitive creatures, Lizzie watched for a while and then could not resist putting her finger where she saw the needle come through only to be pricked by it.

"Ouch!" And although Lizzie was a grown woman, she acted just as a child when her finger went immediately to her mouth.

"You must be careful with the needle, Lizzie. It has to be sharp to go through the fabric." Lizzie nodded, but stayed away from the needle. Jane showed her the front of the sampler.

"You see, Lizzie? I am making a flower like the ones in the garden. Do you think I have made an adequate rendering of the rose?"

Lizzie touched the fine stitching of the soft thread Jane was using, her fingertip outlining the rose pattern on the cloth. Then she put her nose to the cloth and sniffed it.

"Roses smell nice, siser." She sniffed it again and shook her head. "This is not a good rose."

Jane laughed. "No, Lizzie this is not a rose at all. It is only thread and stitches. Real roses are out in the garden."

"Can we not go to the garden and smell real roses, siser?"

Jane stared at her sister who up until her injury was always out in nature, walking and exploring. She looked out the window at the golden sunshine pouring in, and smiled.

"Yes, Lizzie. I think you would like to be outside in the sunshine. Let us get on our coats and bonnets, and I will take you to the garden, but only for a little while, for you still need to rest to help you heal."

Lizzie nodded and smiled, her eyes sparkling in the morning rays of the sun. Donning spencers, bonnets and gloves Jane led them out through the parlor and into the Netherfield gardens. It was not as expansive as at Longbourn, but the roses were in their last display of flowering as the autumn weather was almost upon them. This mattered not to Lizzie, for she merely enjoyed the crisp air, and glorious sun, and just being out of doors. She held Jane's hand as they walked from bush to bush to see and smell the cluster of roses upon each one.

"Look, siser, these still smell very good. Oh, and over here, these are still good too."

"Yes, Lizzie," agreed Jane. "They are all still very fragrant."

"Very...fra...?"

"Fra...grant. It means they smell nice."

"Very fra...grant," Lizzie repeated, smiling at her sister. "Come over here to see these very fra...grant ones, siser."

And Lizzie pulled Jane over to another rose bush with large single stemmed pink blossoms still upon it. Jane smiled thinking Lizzie was introducing her to friends rather than plants as they went from one to the other.

While they held hands and made the acquaintance of each plant and shrub, Bingley came from the parlor with another older gentleman. Jane looked up and smiled radiantly to both as they neared.

"Miss Bennet, see who has come for a visit?" Bingley spoke cheerfully, and then leaving them to their happy reunion.

"Oh, Papa," she whispered as she hugged Mr. Bennet. "I am so glad you came. Did you bring anyone else?"

"No, I came alone," he admitted. "In your note when you described Lizzie's condition, I was hesitant to allow the others to join me for this visit."

His eyes were on Lizzie who stood motionless beside Jane, so unlike herself, he thought. Jane pulled from his embrace and turned to Lizzie and smiled.

"Lizzie, I wish for you to meet someone. This is my Papa, Lizzie."

She looked to him, and smiled and gave him a curtsey.

"Lizzie, I am Mr. Bennet," replied the gentleman.

Lizzie's smile broadened. "My name is Bennet too."

With that statement her father hoped that she would somehow remember him as she gazed intently into his face, her brows knitted in thought.

But her next inquiry dashed his hopes. "Do you know my papa?"

"Yes, child, I know him quite well indeed," sighed Mr. Bennet, inhaling to keep his tears back. "He misses you."

"I miss him too. Can you tell him?"

"Yes, child, I will tell him." He gave Jane a somber look and then gazed again at Lizzie, the bandage visible under her bonnet. "Lizzie, does your head hurt much?"

"No, but it itches where the strings are." Then thinking aloud, Lizzie added, "Doctor said...oh...like siser's sewing..."

Mr. Bennet watched as her mind worked, wondering what she was trying to remember. He wanted to help her, but knew it would be best to allow her to figure it out on her own.

"What is it, Lizzie?" Jane was worried that she was taxing herself, when she saw Lizzie's face radiate with glee as she recalled the word.

"Stitches! The doctor said stitches." Then she smiled at Mr. Bennet and added, "Stitches itches."

Her father laughed and responded, "I believe they say that is a good thing, Lizzie. It means you are healing."

"Uh huh," she sighed, looking about her now, and being his height, she then looked directly at him. "Siser was showing me the...fra-grant roses. You want to see?"

"I certainly would," was his reply, wishing to divert his saddened thoughts.

Lizzie took Jane's hand, and looking at him, she then extended her other hand to him. He gently held it in his own, and allowed her to lead him to the rose bushes, grateful to be with his favorite daughter, as she grew more comfortable in his presence. He was very disconcerted as his eyes watched his grown up daughter speak in a child's voice. It was not so much that her appearance had changed, but rather her facial expressions were altered, and her eyes displayed little of that remarkable wit he had grown used to, especially in the last few years.

Lizzie had been out visiting the garden for the good part of an hour when Jane noticed her stifling a yawn.

"You need to rest, Lizzie. Let me take you to your rooms." Lizzie only nodded her reply, and the three went back inside. At Jane's request Mr. Bennet accompanied them up the stairs to the rooms where his daughters were residing at present.

Arriving at the sitting room of the bedchamber Jane requested, "Father, would you wait for me while I help Lizzie to the bed to rest?" He nodded, but looked at Lizzie.

"Lizzie, I had a wonderful time with you."

"Thank you, Miser Bennet."

"I would like to come again. Do you wish that?"

"Yes," she said right away smiling at this nice man whom she had an instant attraction to. "You like roses too."

He kissed her hand and smiled back. She made a small curtsey the way Jane had taught her. Then he turned and kissed Jane's forehead. Lizzie watched wondering why that looked so familiar. Jane then took her hand and led them through the doorway into the bedchambers.

Jane helped Lizzie out of her coat, and Susan untied the ribbons and removed her bonnet being careful of the bandages. Jane helped Lizzie on the bed and pulled a soft blanket over her.

"I wish to say good-bye to Papa, Lizzie. I will be only outside the door. Susan will be here with you, and I will come back directly. Will you be all right until I return?"

Lizzie hesitated, and Susan took her hand. "I won't leave your side, Miss. I promise."

"I shall return in a few minutes, Lizzie."

Lizzie nodded and Jane bent down and kissed her forehead. Lizzie closed her eyes and smiled. "You did that just like your Papa. I like that, siser."

"I shall be back very soon, Lizzie," Jane promised again as she left the room, closing the door gently, and approaching father.

She hugged him as they both commiserated together. "Oh, Papa. I was hoping she would know you at least. I did not think that you had changed so very much that she would not recognized you."

"Nor I," sighed Mr. Bennet. "But she did not. And more than likely will not know any of the others at Longbourn."

"Father, are you not here to take us home?" Jane was confused as he father seated them both on a couch.

"I had a long discussion with your mother and your sisters, telling them all of what has transpired with Lizzie, and her current state of health. I expressed my wish to bring you both home so that Lizzie could recuperate in familiar surroundings."

"They must have been terribly upset by the news, Mama most of all."

Mr. Bennet closed his eyes and sighed. "Jane, my dear, you have a wonderful gift of understatement. Your mother was in uproar, lamenting first on Lizzie's state and wondered how she would be able be cared for. She then followed it with a repine of how Lizzie will now never be able to marry. She then progressed to grieving for you, Jane, and of Mr. Bingley who would never again darken our door to court you, that you become engaged to him."

"Oh, Father, she has high hopes where there may be none."

"Yes, she has high hopes, but when she began to accuse Lizzie of the demise of your future happiness, I became incensed. Forgive me, my dear. And brought her to task for saying such things."

"She was upset, Father. I am sure she did not mean it."

"I know, my dear, for she then went on to complain of her nerves and threatened us with a fainting spell. It took Mary and Kitty a good half hour to calm her once more. She then removed to her rooms up stairs to stay for the remainder of the day."

"You have not mentioned Lydia. Was she not also upset about Lizzie?"

Mr. Bennet shook his head and sighed at the audacity of his youngest daughter.

"Lydia made light of poor Lizzie? Oh, Father, I cannot believe she would act so."

Mr. Bennet was silent as he thought of how shameful was his youngest unfeeling offspring's reaction of thinking this was all a fine joke by Lizzie, and wished to change the subject. "Has the doctor been to see Lizzie now that she is awake? "

"Yes, Mr. Darcy thought it best that he be sent for at once, and the doctor arrived that same morning. He was understandably concerned and wished for Lizzie to remain here for the time being in case of a relapse."

"Dr. Smyth did not give his consent then for Lizzie to travel as yet?" Jane shook her head. "Well, since he has not, perhaps this will give your mother several more days to become accustom to the idea of having Lizzie at Longbourn in her current state."

"If that is what you wish, Father."

"It is not what I wish, Jane. It is not what I wish at all, but it is what must be done for the time being." He hugged her again. "I shall return in a few days time to visit you both again."

Jane nodded, and rose to hug her father again. As she watched him depart down the hallway to let Mr. Bingley know of his agreement with both he and the doctor to have his daughters remain still, she noticed his shoulders slumped in resignation of the current situation.

Continued in Next Section