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Ch 22: She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.*

Posted on 2010-11-07

The sun had turned the sky a fiery red-orange. Ordinarily, Mr. Bennet would have allowed himself to enjoy the blazing sunset; but tonight, his daughters' worrisome absence denied him that simple pleasure. They should not be out alone so close to dark. Anxiously, he paced the floor of his study, his heavy footfalls muffled by the faded carpet. Finally, as the deep blue-violets of night began to overtake the glowing reds, he heard the front door open, and the sweet voices of his girls filtered through his study door. Thank Heaven!
 
When he appeared in the foyer, his daughters were startled. The look of anxiety on his face only increased their surprise. "What has kept you so long! Surely you know better than to stay out so near nightfall," he admonished in a most severe tone.
 
"I am sorry, Papa," Lizzy immediately apologized, an honestly repentant look in her eyes. He looks so worried! I cannot remember him looking so taxed before. "We had so much to do in town, the time truly got away from us. When we realized how late it had become, we returned as quickly as we could. We nearly ran the last mile!" She laughed remorsefully, pushing stray hairs from her face as if to make her point.
 
Oh my child, I have never been able to stay cross with you. He shook his head gently, his tone softening. "I see you have been to the library. I do not believe I have ever seen you come home so heavily laden. Come, let me see what you have selected to pass the days while your old father is away." He held out his arms expectantly.
 
Blushing, the girls glanced hesitantly at one another.
 
Noting their reluctance, he frowned. What could they have selected that they are unwilling to show me? "Girls," he admonished.
 
Slowly, Lizzy handed over the volumes in her arms. Her father's eyes grew wide as he read the titles. "Mrs. Chapone's 'Letters to the Improvement of the Mind?' Mrs. Rundell's 'A New System of Domestic Cookery?'" He waved at Jane to hand over her burdens. "'A Household of Economy?' 'A Lady's Manual of Household Accounts?'"
 
Mary and Kitty shrunk back, seeing his brow crease deeply. They cringed as they surrendered their tomes. "'Herbs of England and Recipes for the use Thereof?' 'The Care and Maintenance of Poultry?' 'A Gentlewoman's Guide to Dairy…?'" His voice trailed off as his throat closed. Wordlessly, he returned the books.
 
"Papa?" Jane finally asked, her voice timid. I did not expect this to upset him so.
 
His eyes became bright as he pressed his lips together hard. Although he tried to blink them back, silent tears flowed down his lined face. He swallowed hard as he struggled for words.
 
Kitty gasped nervously, clutching at Mary's hand. I have never seen him like this! Is he angry? Have we done something wrong? Surely Lizzy would not encourage us to do something untoward.
 
Mr. Bennet's stupor broke, seeing his younger girls' intimidation. "Girls…" his voice cracked again as he opened his arms and drew all four of them into his embrace at once. "I am so proud of you," he whispered hoarsely.
 
Jane felt the tears prickle her eyes, but Kitty wept openly at her father's praise.
 
Mary hugged him fiercely, unnerved by his uncharacteristic display. I have never heard him say that before.
 
"Thank you, Papa," Lizzy finally spoke, her voice very soft. "You will not regret trusting us as you have."
 
"My girls," he murmured, laying his hand gently on her face. He smiled at her through misty eyes. Sighing deeply, he soaked in his girls' warmth, his mind whirling. I believed them capable, for sure, but already they have exceeded my expectations. I can hardly think what I will find when I return. "I do believe it is time for dinner. Perhaps you can tell me more of your outing over our repast."
 
Disengaging themselves, the girls set the library's offerings on the hall table and followed him into the dining room.
 

"Was Lydia able to depart on time, or was Colonel Forster kept waiting as we feared?" Jane asked, sipping her soup daintily. I can only imagine the scene after we left. I am so glad Lizzy dragged me away, else I would have spent the morning repacking her trunks.
 
Rolling his eyes and laughing under his breath, he pinched the bridge of his nose. "That she did." He paused to sample his soup. "Just in time, though. I might add, no thanks to her jealous and unfeeling older sisters who refused to assist her as any proper feeling siblings would do." His carefully neutral voice did not betray any reaction to the reported exchange, although the look in his eye was mischievous as he looked up over his soup spoon.
 
"But Papa! That is not fair!" Kitty immediately protested dropping her spoon noisily. "Do you realize that she…"
 
A wry smile lifted Lizzy's lips as she reached out a calming hand toward Kitty. "Be still, dear. I fear our good father is seeing if he can befriend your 'poor nerves' as he has our mother's all these years."
 
Jane and Mary choked back giggles as Kitty's eyes widened in astonishment. She tried to speak for a moment, but gave up when no words would come forth. Instead, she began to laugh, opening the flood gates for her sisters. Their laughter soon filled the room.
 
"So, surely you did more in town than visit the library?" Mr. Bennet reached for a platter of roast meat. "Somehow I do not believe you spent your time with the dressmaker or milliner this afternoon."
 
"No, sir, we did not," Mary quietly offered. "We went to speak with the merchants…"
 
"To learn their wares…" Kitty added excitedly.
 
"And their prices," Mary continued, helping herself to a bowl of potatoes.
 
"Truly? How singular," he remarked, pursing his lips as he cut his meat. How they have embraced the task I have set before them. I am astonished. I must find a way to draw Fanny from her chambers to see what they are doing. She should really see how they have risen to the day. To think Melissa and Percy were trying to bully her into giving the girls to them to raise as 'proper gentlewomen.' As if that shrew knew anything about the proper character for a young lady of good breeding. They both may have been tradesman's daughters, but my Fanny has always been more of a lady. If only the fear of the bloody entail had not stolen her joy from her. But her girls are doing her proud. Look at them now, proper ladies all of them.
 
Jane and Lizzy exchanged mischievous grins. Their father raised a shaggy brow their direction, asking a silent question.
 
"Oh, Papa!" Jane exclaimed, laughing, unable to hold herself back, "You should have seen Lizzy! She had the two dry goods merchants ready to come to blows with each other in the middle of the street!"
 
Unable to retain his composure, he began to choke, coughing until his eyes watered. Finally he sputtered, "Well, since neither has come to my door, I know they were not fighting over her hand." He wiped his eyes roughly with his napkin.
 
Lizzy gasped as the others laughed harder. Her hands flew to her hips. "Father, how could you? I was not flirting with the merchants! I am not…"
 
"Oh no, my dear! I would never accuse you of flirting, much to your poor mother's dismay." His eyes twinkled merrily as he baited his daughter. "I believe she has been trying to have you refine that particular skill for several years now. I seem to recall several memorable lectures she has delivered on that very topic, none of which I remember you being terribly receptive of."
 
Sighing heavily, Lizzy rolled her eyes and shook her head. With an affected frown, she shrugged and turned her attention back to her plate, causing more laughter from her sisters.
 
"So, go on with your tale." He turned back to Jane with a wry smile. Warmly, he glanced back at Lizzy. Yes, my dear, it is your turn today to be the brunt of the tease. I need to make sure you can laugh at your own habits as easily as you can laugh at the foibles of others. If you cannot, you will grow bitter and cold in time.
 
Jane raised a brow toward the younger sisters who gleefully rose to the challenge. Mary and Kitty shared mischievous grins. "Lizzy went to the first shop to inquire after the cost of sugar, tea and coffee." Mary's eyes sparkled.
 
"He would not give her an answer! Can you believe that? He told her Hill had patronized his shop for many years, and that our housekeeper was a competent and trustworthy woman, there was no reason to begin to question her judgment now."
 
"You should have seen the look on your face, Lizzy." Jane's blue eyes twinkled as she fought to control her laughter." You were the very picture of righteous outrage. I cannot believe that he did not fall over dead just from the way you looked at him."
 
"She did not even deign to speak to him further!" Mary snickered, reaching for a roll.
 
"She just spun on her heel and stalked out of the shop, leaving us all to scurry after her like little ducklings." Kitty bit her lower lip, grinning.
 
"And we all just fell into step behind her! There was little else for us to do!" Jane brushed the mirth-filled tears from her cheeks. "We followed mama-duck directly across the street to talk to the other shop keeper."
 
"Who was quick to give me the answers I requested, I might add." Lizzy looked up and crossed her arms firmly as she met her father's eye steadily. "In fact, he offered a very good price if we would consider switching our patronage to his shop."
 
"At just that moment, the first shop keeper stormed in, declaring that Lizzy had led us away too soon, and that he had meant no offense, but rather to compliment the staff of Longbourn," Jane continued with a smirk toward her sister. "But Lizzy would have none of it. She dismissed him like an unwanted suitor, refusing to hear him at all."
 
"So he became angry…"
 
"And they threw him out…"
 
"So he yelled from the street…"
 
"And the shop assistant followed him out to try and silence him…"
 
"But the young man could not…"
 
"So his father followed him out!"
 
Mary and Kitty gasped and laughed as they finished each other's sentences. Lizzy looked from one sister to the other in exasperation. "It was not nearly so exciting as that, Papa. Mr. Nash just went out to try and calm Mr. Sterling…"
 
"They nearly came to blows!" Kitty blurted out. "Mr. Sterling accused Mr. Nash of trying to steal away our patronage from his shop, and Mr. Nash shouted back that there was no law against competition! Then Mr. Sterling struck…"
 
"No, he just pushed Mr. Nash. He did not hit him," Mary gently corrected. "But then the Regiment paraded through at that point and effectively broke off their…interaction."
 
"My word!" Mr. Bennet exclaimed. All of Meryton must know by now that the girls have taken on the management at Longbourn. I can only imagine what Mrs. Phillips is saying. Well, there's nothing to be done now, I suppose.
 
"But you should see the price she negotiated on our tea, coffee, and sugar for the next month!" Jane finished with a flourish.
 
"Perhaps I should be bringing you with me, my dear," Mr. Bennet murmured under his breath, sipping his water.
 
A somber expression fell over Lizzy's face. "May I ask, what is your business in Kent?"
 
"No, you may not," he replied firmly, but not unkindly. I do not wish to raise your hopes only to have something steal that away from you. I do not want to disappoint you. "Perhaps, when I return, we will talk."
 
Although crestfallen, Lizzy did not press the point. However, the light mood they had just enjoyed seemed to evaporate under his heaviness.
 
Finally Jane broke the uncomfortable silence. "We saw Aunt Phillips for a few minutes. She inquired after Mama."
 
A decidedly displeased look crept over his face. With a stern look in his eyes, he turned to his eldest daughters. "Jane, Lizzy, while I am gone, I charge you both with making sure that your aunt is not left alone with your mother at all. If she does visit, she may only do so in your presence, and if she says anything even remotely upsetting to your mother, you are to escort her out and not allow her admission into Longbourn whilst I am gone again.
 
"In fact, the same is true for any visitor, if your mother is even up to receiving any of them. Your mother's nerves have gotten the best of her for now, and she needs peace and rest more than company right now. I will not jeopardize her recovery with any guests that may further upset her."
 
Kitty and Mary just stared wide-eyed at their father.
 
"We understand," Jane and Elizabeth replied together, nodding seriously.
 
Grimly, Mr. Bennet frowned. His eyes flickered away from his daughters for a moment and he exhaled heavily. "I will be here to escort you all to church tomorrow, then on Monday I will leave with your Uncle Phillips."
 
"So quickly?" Jane asked, alarmed.It will be so strange not having you home with us.
 
"I am afraid it must be so. I fear this business may take some time, and it must be carefully handled. I need to be back for farm affairs in a month or so, so I must take advantage of the lull time I have right now." He sighed heavily. I hate to leave them; I wonder if they understand that. "But now, no long faces. We should enjoy this delightful pie that cook has offered us." Without further pause, he began to serve the pastry. "So then, tell me what happened after the regiment passed?"
 

The church bells rang loudly as the Bennet family filed into their family pew. The elder girls were acutely aware of the emptiness of the nearby row usually filled by the Netherfield family. They shared an uneasy glance, but their moment of uncomfortable reflection was broken by the Lucas family's arrival.
 
"Lizzy, Jane!" Charlotte cried warmly. "I am so glad to see you both." She clasped the older sisters' hands warmly. "Mary! I have just been bursting to tell you, Mama went back to visit the Blacks yesterday. Mrs. Black is still weak, of course, but she is much better than the day we called upon her. Her mother said she no longer fears for her daughter's life!"
 
"That is indeed welcome news!" Mary beamed. "I have wondered how she fared since we were there."
 
"Well, you can be sure that both Mrs. Black and her mother were most charmed by the Bennet sisters! It seems you both have an appeal that is quite desirable in the sick room." Charlotte hunched over like the old woman they had met and affected her accent, "They wuz jes' lov'ly ladies, ya know. Not too cheery ta' bring a heart to fear fo' its life, not so somber dat ya t'ink yaself already ded. Jes' like a ray o' sun." She smiled so much like the anxious grandmother that they all laughed heartily.
 
At least not all our neighbors think us shocking! Lizzy bit her tongue to keep from voicing her thought. What an odd look in your eyes, Charlotte. Oh dear, I fear that you heard too much about the Bennet sisters and too little about your own kindness and gentle spirit.
 
"I was so intrigued by your mother's herbs that I took a book of herbal recipes from the library," Mary added excitedly.
 
"If you are truly interested in such things, I know my mother would like nothing more than to pass her lore on to you. Neither Maria nor I have a head for such things."
 
Maria giggled, nodding. "She gets so cross with me–I cannot tell one leaf from another! They are all green, are they not? How much difference can there be among them?"
 
"Good morning, girls." Lady Lucas smiled as she pressed in to accommodate her sons between herself and Sir William. "I see Mrs. Bennet is not here this morning."
 
"No, I am afraid not," Jane replied carefully. "She is feeling quite poorly this morning and could not leave her chambers."
 
"Well, I am sorry to hear that. Should I call this afternoon?" Deep concern filled her hazel eyes.
 
"Thank you so much, Lady Lucas," Lizzy cut in. "But my father prepares for a journey tomorrow, and I do not believe that Mama will be well enough for callers amidst such excitement."
 
"Of course, I quite understand, dear," Lady Lucas reached out to squeeze Lizzy's arm. "Perhaps tomorrow or the next day, then." I do so hope she will be willing to receive me. I have known her far to long not to be able to guess at what has happened. You have such a tender heart, Fanny Bennet, I only wish you were not so easily wounded.
 
The girls' response was cut short by the beginning of the service. They smiled to each other as they listened to the curate read the banns. His clear strong voice filled the stone building with resounding warmth.
 
Maria leaned forward to whisper in Kitty's ear. "Does not Mr. Pierce have the most wonderful voice?"
 
Kitty nodded, not taking her eyes from the young parson at the front of the church.
 
"I am ever so glad the vicar left, and Mr. Pierce took his place. I would much rather listen to him!"
 
Kitty nodded again, leaning back to whisper, "But do you not think it strange that he writes so many of his own sermons? He does not preach from the sermon books as the other vicar did."
 
"Hush!" Mary hissed a fierce rebuke. The younger girls settled back to listen.
 
"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. We find these words in the tenth verse of the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs." Robert Pierce lifted his head from his book to look out over his congregation. "If we read further, we see her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
 
Unbeknownst to Lizzy and Jane, their father looked at them, his eyes filled with warmth. They deserve men who will value them more highly than rubies. But where are such men to be found? He sighed softly.
 
Lizzy reached over to take her elder sister's hand, squeezing it affectionately. You are that woman of noble character, Jane, even if you deny it. Whoever is lucky enough to win your hand will lack for nothing. I just hope he is able to see that.
 
Charlotte looked wistfully at her friends before her. You both are so beautiful and so well thought of, regardless of how Lydia behaves. Despite your dowry, I believe you will make good matches. What chance do I have, being poor and plain, what does my character possibly matter?
 
"How confused our priorities have become." Mr. Pierce's brows furrowed seriously. "It seems the way of men now to search for a woman worth more than rubies, then hope later that she is of noble character."
 

*PR 31:17

The early morning fog slowed Lizzy as she took her customary morning walk. The air was cool and moist, clinging to her softly, tickling like a kitten's tail against her face. Jane thinks I have lost my mind when I tell her I love the feeling of fog in the morning. She finds it so ominous, like it is hiding something. But it is only playful, in a game of hide and seek with the sunrise on its heels, ready to reveal all it obscures. Twirling on her toes, she laughed to herself, feeling as good-humored as the fog she danced in. The lure of a new challenge, a new adventure, thrilled her. The possibility of failure did not intimidate her as it did Jane, it energized her.
 
I really should get back to the house. There is so much to be done today. Papa left so late yesterday and Mama was so distraught, we achieved nothing of which we intended yesterday. I so hope Mama will be in better spirits today. I had no idea that Papa's absence would distress her as much as it did.
 
I suppose if she remains troubled, I could write him and let him know. But I would hate to disrupt his business if we do not have to. We will do the best we can to calm her, and hope that is enough. Hill is so good with her, I am sure she will be able to help Mama.
 
By the time Lizzy made it back to Longbourn, the fog was burning away and the warmth of the sun's rays caressed her face. This will be a lovely day.
 
Jane sat at the table, waiting for her wandering sister. "Did you enjoy the fog this morning?" she teased gently, sipping her tea.
 
"I certainly did! I cannot imagine a lovelier way to begin the morning." Lizzy lowered herself into her seat, nodding in thanks as her sister poured tea for her. "I imagine neither Mama nor our sisters have risen yet?"
 
"No. After dinner last night, I believe Kitty and Mary suddenly found a great deal to talk about, and were up quite late." A wry smile crept across her face. "In truth, I would never have imagined them getting along so well. I am quite astounded by the transformation in both of them."
 
"I would not have imagined that Lydia's departure would make such a difference in either of them." Lizzy shook her head, wondering. "I am worried about Lyddie, though. Mrs. Forster is such a young woman, still just newly married. I wonder that she is truly a fitting chaperone for our sister." She turned to her sister, arching her brow. " But alas, it is out of our hands and we should focus on that which we can affect, right?"
 
"I do believe you are teasing me, Lizzy!" she laughed good-naturedly. "But yes, that does sound like something I would say."
 
They ate in companionable silence for a few minutes before Lizzy felt compelled to break the stillness. "So then, where do you think we should begin today?"
 
"Well," Jane sighed, "I would prefer to leave the household accounts in your capable hands, if that is all right with you. I believe it is time to exert myself to become a bit more outgoing than is my wont. It has been a long time since our tenants have received proper calls from Longbourn. I would like to take the morning to visit a few of Papa's tenants. I spoke with cook last night, and found we have an abundance of blackberry jam in the pantry. So I will take them each a jar as a small gift."
 
"I would be pleased to have you handle the morning calls, Jane. Your gentle nature is sure to put people at ease. You are very much suited to the task. I fear I am better fitted to arguing with merchants and commanding servants," Lizzy laughed self-deprecatingly.
 
"Do not criticize yourself so, Lizzy!" Jane immediately admonished.
 
"We all have our gifts, dear. While you are immeasurably kind, I am simply bossy." Despite the saucy wink Lizzy offered with her words, the older girl knew too well the pain behind them. Before she could respond, though, Lizzy continued, "I had thought to set Mary and Kitty to check on the hen house and dairy barn. Do you think they are up to that?"
 
"There is no better way to find out than to try. I cannot imagine they can come to much harm among the chickens and cows." Jane laughed as she tried to shake the image from her mind.
 
"I hope they will find the idea appealing. I do not imagine that Kitty would prefer going over ledgers and Mary will not want to go alone"
 

An hour later, while her younger sisters ate breakfast in the dining room, Lizzy met with Hill in the housekeeper's small office off the kitchen.
 
"I have been going over the household accounts, and I wanted to ask you a few questions," Lizzy began gently. I do not wish to offend her.
 
"Yes, Madam," Hill bobbed her head respectfully. "I have kept the books quite faithfully. I hope that you have not found anything missing." She clasped her hands before her.
 
"They are quite complete, Hill. You have done a very good job in keeping them. In fact, that is why I wish to speak with you."
 
"I am afraid I do not understand."
 
Carefully opening the ledger, Lizzy directed the housekeeper's attention to several specific entries. "As I looked over these records, I noticed something that does not make sense to me."
 
"All that your father asked is there, is it not? The date, the purchases, the prices, the merchants?" Worried lines creased Hill's face.
 
"Yes, yes it is all here. That is not the problem at all." Lizzy sighed softly, trying to contain her mounting frustration. "When I looked over all the information you have so dutifully recorded, I noticed that in the last six months we seem to be purchasing sugar much more often than we had in months past. I looked over the menus, and I do not see any reason why we should be running out of sugar so much faster now."
 
Hill's eyes grew wide as she listened, then they narrowed as she searched for an answer. "I am afraid I cannot for the life of me think why that might be, ma'am."
 
"Is it your practice to check the weight of the items sent by the merchants?" the younger woman asked carefully.
 
"Yes, I do. I know it is the way of some to short the merchandise. That is why I have used Mr. Sterling for so many years. His parcels are always correctly weighed." The housekeeper began to wring her hands.
 
"That is odd indeed. Would you show me where you weigh the parcels?"
 
Silently, Hill nodded and led Lizzy to the back corner of the kitchen, near the pantry. "Here's where the girls put the packages when they come in, on the table next to my scale. Nothing moves from here until I have checked it against the order I made."
 
Carefully, Lizzy scrutinized the arrangement. She is far more efficient than I realized. I do not know that I would have ever thought to do this had Mrs. Rundell's book not mentioned it. How much I have to learn! "I have to agree with you, Hill. Everything looks in order here." She pressed her lips into a thoughtful frown, glancing into the pantry. Suddenly her brows furrowed and she walked toward the pantry, an alarmed Hill scurrying after her. "This is strange, do you know what this is?" In the corner of the pantry, on the floor, was a pile of small stones.
 
"I have never noticed that before. I cannot image what those are doing in my kitchen. Betsy!" Hill stepped out into the kitchen proper. "Betsy!"
 
"Yes ma'am!" A young woman dashed in and stood before Hill, panting hard.
 
"Can you tell me why there are rocks in my pantry?" An angry finger pointed accusingly at the offending pile.
 
"I'm sorry ma'am! I usually remember to take them out. I forgot!" the young woman's words spilled out anxiously.
 
"Take them out? Where do they come from?"
 
"The sugar. I find them in the bags of sugar. It is a simple thing to sieve them out before I bring it out to cook. I leave them rocks on the floor until I can take them out to the garden." Betsy glanced nervously at Lizzy, who now stood close by, listening intensely.
 
"Why was I not told?" The housekeeper's face turned red as her hands flew to her hips.
 
"I…I…I thought I ought not trouble you with that. It were no trouble for me to take care of it."
 
"Thank you, Betsy," Lizzy stepped in. Poor thing, she meant no harm. She has no idea why there were stones in the sugar. She was only doing the best she knew how. "In the future, should you find anything like that again, you are to notify Mrs. Hill. You have done fine. You may go back to your duties."
 
"Thank you," Betsy bobbed a curtsey and scampered away nervously.
 
An awkward silence followed. Lizzy looked at Hill with a wry smile. "That would explain why the sugar has not lasted as long as it used to."
 
"I am so sorry, ma'am. I had no idea. If that girl had only told me…"
 
"It is all right, Mrs. Hill. She had no idea. I do not believe she was intentionally keeping anything from you. Do not punish her for this. I know you suspected nothing of this sort, and I do not hold this against you either."
 
Hill swallowed hard. "That is very good of you. Thank you,"
 
"The question is, what to do about it now? I cannot imagine that we should call the magistrate over something such as this." She chewed her lower lip thoughtfully.
 
"No, ma'am. With your permission, I believe I have a better way." A satisfied grin bloomed on the older woman's weathered face.
 
"Do tell."
 
"I will tell our girls of Mr. Sterling's odd way of packing the sugar, and send them on errands to the other houses in the neighborhood. It will be but a day or so before everyone knows what has happened."
 
With a twinkle in her eye, Lizzy agreed, "That would be a more fitting consequence than calling the magistrate. Of course, we will take our patronage to Mr. Nash now." She laughed to herself.That does explain some of Mr.Sterling's odd behavior when we were in town.
 
"I do believe that there will be many in town who will agree with you soon."No wonder the Master left her in charge. She is such a clever girl to figure that out so quick.
 
"Lizzy? Lizzy!" Mary's strong voice called from hall outside the kitchen.
 
Lizzy nodded to Hill then hurried to her sister. She found Mary and Kitty standing in the hall, holding another ledger. "What is wrong? Please, tell me you did not try to milk the cow yourselves."
 
The younger girls looked at each other and laughed. "My goodness, no!" Kitty sputtered. "I would not dare try, I am too afraid of her kicking me."
 
"Do not look at me like that Lizzy!" Mary held her hands up in surrender. "I have no wish to get too close to that great hairy beast either."
 
"Then what? Did the hens attack you as you tried to steal their eggs?" Lizzy's eyes danced with good natured mischief.
 
"Please Lizzy, this is serious," Mary protested in exasperation.Please do not ignore me as Papa has.
 
"Very well, you do not seem in the mood for a tease, so tell me, what is wrong?" She led them into the parlor to sit down.
 
"There is something very strange in the ledgers." Mary opened the ungainly book and searched for the page she needed.
 
Sighing, Lizzy rolled her eyes. This again? I cannot imagine.
 
"It does not make sense." Kitty pointed at a series of entries. "We talked to Mr. Clay…"
 
"He runs the home farm for Papa," Mary quickly explained. "Sorry, you knew that. He records the amount of eggs and milk that are taken to town to sell, who buys them, and how much he receives for them."
 
"Let me guess, you have no problem with his record keeping…" Lizzy offered, biting her upper lip.
 
"No, that is done just as Papa has requested. But look at this and this and this." Kitty pointed to three specific entries. "If you look at the amount sold and the amount received, something is not right with the numbers."
 
Lizzy stared at the numbers, thinking. Her brows knit as she blinked hard. That does not make sense. I must have calculated incorrectly.
 
Kitty could tell what her sister was thinking. "No, Lizzy, I am sure you figured correctly. Something is not the way it should be."
 
"I did not know you so proficient with your sums." She looked at her younger sister in surprise.
 
"It is quite useful in pattern making," Kitty shrugged. "But look here, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, it seems as though the amounts received are less than they should be compared to the other days of the week."
 
"That is very odd indeed!" Lizzy squinted and blinked as she studied several pages of entries. "This seems to be a long standing pattern. Have you spoken to Mr. Clay?"
 
"No, not yet. I…we wanted to be certain that there was indeed something there," Mary replied softly.
 
Laying a warm hand on her sister's arm, Lizzy assured, "You have done a wonderful job, both of you. I am truly impressed. Let us take a trip down to speak with Mr. Clay and see what we can see."
 
In short order, the three sisters arrived at the dairy barn where Mr. Clay was instructing his son on the care of the calves. Quickly, Lizzy explained their findings to him.
 
"Beggin' your pardon, ma'am, but I canna' think why dat would be." He scratched his head with a dirty hand.
 
"Can you think of anything different that happens on those days?" Lizzy offered gently.Does no one here do anything but write numbers down? No one seems to consider what they mean.
 
Mr. Clay's son tugged insistently on his father's sleeve. "Papa, ain't those da days dat Bonnie takes da eggs and milk ta town?"
 
The farmer's eyes grew wide with understanding, then a dark cloud descended over his coarse features. "Bonnie!" he shouted angrily, "Git yourself o'er here! Bonnie!"
 
Kitty and Mary cringed as they saw the girl running toward them.
 
Quickly, he explained what Mary and Kitty had discovered and demanded an accounting.
 
None were surprised when Bonnie broke down into tears. "Oh, please, Miss, please, do not dismiss my papa!" she pleaded.
 
"Nothing will happen to your papa or your family if you tell us the truth," Lizzy answered firmly. "Did you steal that money?"
 
"Oh no, no! I did na! Papa would tan my hide ever so fierce if I e'er did something so evil!" Bonnie sobbed.
 
"Then what happened?" Mary dropped to her knee to look the little girl in the eye. Taking the youngster's hand, she calmly soothed the child.Poor thing is terrified.
 
"Billy Thompson," Bonnie whispered hoarsely.
 
"What about him?" Lizzy followed Mary's lead and crouched down.
 
"He…'e knows I 'ave the milk an' egg money when I come back from town. Billy, 'e waits at da foot bridge, 'e makes me give 'im…four pence or sometime even six pence to let me pass…" The child broke down sobbing once again.
 
"And if you did not?" Mary pressed, drying her tears.
 
"'e said 'e would hit me and take it all, then tell the magistrate I stole it! 'e said the magistrate would…would…"
 
"There, there, it is all right. Nothing will happen to you." Mary drew the girl into a reassuring embrace. Poor dear little thing!
 
Lizzy rose, brushing her hands on her skirt. She fixed a stare on Mr. Clay.
 
"Dis be da first I heard o' it! Truly ma'am…" The farmer's alarm was clear in his voice.
 
"I can see that," Lizzy agreed. "The question is, what do we do about it now?" Glancing at her sisters for support, she continued, "I believe a visit to the Thompson's would be in order."
 
"It would indeed!" he agreed. "Come now, Bonnie." Gently he took his daughter's small hand in his and led them all on a brisk walk to the Thompson's farm.
 
Lizzy's mind raced as she hurried to keep up with the angry farmer's long strides. What am I going to say to them? What am I going to do? Billy Thompson is hardly more than nine years old. I cannot call the magistrate against a child! Yet, the amount that has been taken would be considered a hanging offense! How I wish Mary and Kitty had never found that! I cannot allow a child to face the gallows over something we never even noticed before now!
 
Too soon for Lizzy's tastes, they arrived at the tenant farm. Mr. Clay knocked sharply at the door and demanded to see Mr. Thompson. Mrs. Thompson ushered him into the house, then did a double take when she saw the sisters standing behind him.
 
"Please, come in. I imagine you are looking for Miss Bennet? She just came to call a few minutes ago. She is here in the parlor." The farmer's wife anxiously led them into the parlor where Jane sat talking with Mr. Pierce.
 
Jane is here! I am so glad. I need her right now! Lizzy's eyes searched for her sister.
 
Surprised, the eldest Bennet sister sprang to her feet. "Lizzy! Mary! Kitty! Is everything all right? I did not expect to see you here." On no! What is wrong?
 
Seeing the suffering on Lizzy's face, Mr. Pierce added, "Please, Miss Elizabeth, sit down. Is there anything I can do for your present distress? Can you tell us what has happened?" Kindly, he guided Lizzy to a chair.
 
With gratitude, she sat down and pressed her temples hard. "Things have suddenly become quite complicated," she sighed and rapidly explained the events that had led them to the Thompson's home.
 
Raised voices from the back of the house convinced them that Mr. Thompson had indeed been found and was listening to Mr. Clay's complaint. Moments later they heard, "Billy! Get in your arse in here! Billy!" shouted from the back door.
 
"Oh Jane! I do not know what to do," Lizzy whispered desperately.
 
Mr. Pierce looked from one sister to the next, identical expressions of compassion and worry in each of their eyes. He drew breath to speak, but was interrupted by the arrival of the farmers with their children in tow.
 
"Clay tol' me o' what ma' Billy done," Mr. Thompson declared, glaring furiously, first at his son, then at the other farmer. "What ya' done there be a hanging offense, boy!" He shook the boy by the shoulder angrily.
 
"I will get the magistrate," Mr. Clay declared, taking a step toward the door.
 
Mr. Thompson blanched at the suggestion, a look of horror lighting his eyes.
 
"No!" Lizzy cried, springing to her feet to stop the farmer. Briskly she stepped toward the young boy, still in his father's grasp.
 
"But ma'am…" Clay protested as Lizzy shook her head sharply.
 
"Why did you take the money from Bonnie?" Lizzy asked, dropping down to look the child in the eye.
 
"I did na…" Billy began to protest until his father's powerful squeeze on his shoulder stopped his words. "I…I…dinna' know." He glowered at his interrogator.
 
"He's a bad seed," Clay declared, glowering at the boy and his father.
 
"That is enough, Mr. Clay," Lizzy commanded, rising. "He is a child. A child who has done a bad deed." She turned her eyes on Mr. Thompson. "Who certainly should be punished for what he has done." She frowned at Clay. "But not by the magistrate."
 
Thompson swallowed hard. "I will tan his hide for sure, ma'am. But please, donna' call da magistrate. I will see to it dat he will na' do dis agin."
 
Lizzy looked over her shoulder to Jane. Her elder sister shrugged helplessly, but rose to stand beside Lizzy. Looking critically at the defiant child, Lizzy shook her head, "I fear that will not be enough."
 
"An' what would you know…" Thompson retorted angrily.
 
"I agree with Miss Elizabeth," Mr. Pierce added, joining the sisters.
 
Thompson drew a sharp breath. "He's but a child!"
 
Mr. Pierce raised his hand to stop the protest. "I have a suggestion, if I may, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Bennet."
 
The four sisters turned hopeful eyes on the curate.
 
"The good book says 'If a man shall deliver unto his neighbor money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the man's house; if the thief be found, let him pay double.'* It seems to me that is what has happened here." The curate's gentle brown eyes focused on the boy.
 
"But I ain't got that!" Billy protested loudly.
 
"We jes paid da rent. I donna' have…" Mr. Thompson continued.
 
"Wait," Lizzy interrupted. "If he does not have the money, he may work to repay his debt. I believe, Mr. Clay, you have need of extra help in the barns right now?" She turned her gaze to the farmer.
 
Mr. Pierce smiled and nodded approvingly.
 
"I suppose…" Clay agreed reluctantly.
 
Suddenly the boy's defiant demeanor shattered and a ray of hope lit his eyes. "I can work hard in da barns!"
 
"I am sure you can," Jane warmly agreed. "I think it is a good plan. Understand, you will have to work hard, and for a long time, to pay off your debts." She looked at the boy very seriously.
 
He nodded up at her, "But da magistrate will na' be comin' ta git me?"
 
"No he will not," Lizzy crossed her arms over her chest. "Not as long as you do as you are told and work hard. Mr. Clay, please add young Billy's work to those things you record for my father."
 
"Yes, ma'am."
 
Thompson breathed a heavy sigh of relief. From outside the room, they heard his wife burst into loud tears of relief. "Thank ya, ma'am and ma'am. And you too, sir," he turned to Mr. Pierce gratefully, "I will na' forgit what ya done for ma boy."
 
Lizzy sighed with relief, grateful for Mr. Pierce's quick intervention. A few minutes later the sisters took their leave of the Thompsons and began their journey back to Longbourn.
 
Jane insisted on being informed of all their discoveries as they walked. "To think I was feeling sorry for myself, listening to the complaints of the tenants' wives!" She laughed. "Here I thought myself so patient and longsuffering while all I had to do was simply listen. In the meantime, you were studying ledgers, solving mysteries, and meting out justice!"
 
"I hardly think this is what Papa intended when he handed the management of the household over to us," Mary remarked contemplatively.
 
"I believe you are correct, dear," Lizzy agreed, twining her arm in Mary's. "I do so dearly hope all our days will not be nearly so exciting!"
 

*EX 22:7

Intermezzo 2

Posted on 2010-11-14

Twenty five years earlier

Thomas Bennet sat anxiously in his carriage, wringing his hands in his lap. The short journey into Meryton seemed longer than he had ever remembered it. After a month and a half in London, he was anxious to arrive at his destination. This was no ordinary social call. Today I will ask Miss Fanny Gardiner to be my wife! He smiled in satisfaction, leaning back in his coach. My dear Fanny, I cannot wait to see your face!
 
She is so beautiful and lively, and I am so dull. I wonder how she could possibly care for me. I know her sisters say she only cares for my fortune, but they are the fortune seekers, not her. She is all that is good and sweet and winsome and… He laughed to himself. Listen to me! I am worse than a school girl! At five and twenty, one should have better sense!
 
The carriage lurched to a stop, and he bounded from its confines, up the steps to the Gardiners' door. The housekeeper led him in to the parlor where Mrs. Gardiner sat.
 
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Gardiner," he bowed impatiently, his eyes searching.
 
"Good afternoon, Mr. Bennet." She rose to meet him, the relief in her voice worried him.
 
"Begging your pardon, ma'am, but is something wrong? You seem troubled."
 
Sadly, she nodded. "It is not me, sir, but my youngest daughter. Miss Gardiner is out in the garden. She is very distraught, but will not speak to me of it. "
 
"Perhaps I might be of some comfort to her," he suggested cautiously.I know it is improper to suggest such a thing, but if she is truly distressed…
 
"I confess I hoped that you might consider it." Mrs. Gardiner led him to a window that overlooked the garden. "There she is. I believe that she might welcome your company. I will stay here. If you promise to stay in view of these windows, I can chaperone you from here."
 
Fanny…Miss Gardiner must be truly beside herself if her mother is willing to allow me such freedom. "That is indeed good of you, ma'am." He hurried out the door into the garden.
 
He only took a few steps onto the gravel path before he heard Fanny's violent sobs. His heart tightened in his chest. Moments later, he was on his knees before her. "Miss Gardiner…" he began softly.
 
She glanced down at him, her eyes red, and flowing with tears. She tried to speak, but could only cover her face with her hands and sob once more.
 
"Fanny! Please, what is wrong? What has happened?" he demanded, boldly pulling her hands from her face. Tell me, my love.
 
"No! No!" she exclaimed, pulling away from him. "You must go!" I cannot bear to have him turn me away!
 
His heart turned to ice in his chest. This cannot be! "I will not go anywhere without an explanation, Miss Gardiner." His voice was soft, but determined.
 
She stared at him, the pain in her eyes heart-rendingly clear. "My sister was right. You should have nothing to do with me. I… I am… I am ruined!" Sobs overtook her once more.
 
"What are you talking about! What has happened?" he demanded once more, a sick feeling overtaking him. Dear Lord what has happened?
 
"I cannot, I cannot speak…"
 
"You can and you will, Fanny Gardiner. I will not leave without a full accounting of your claim." His words were stern, but the gentleness with which he held her hands spoke volumes of his tenderness.
 
She cried for long minutes before she could speak again. "I am ruined, Mr. Bennet. You are a gentleman. You cannot wish to keep company with such a woman as I." Her strained voice was barely above a whisper.
 
"What has happened? What are you saying?" Coldness crept across his face. "Is there another…" I cannot believe such a thing!
 
"No! Oh no! Mr. Bennet… Thomas…no…"I love you! You must believe I would never betray you!
 
"Then what!" He squeezed her hands hard.
 
Summoning her courage, she faced him, "While you were gone, my father…we had a guest…my uncle…"
 
No! Not that man! Anger replaced fear in Thomas's eyes.
 
"At dinner, he paid me every compliment and I thanked him for it. But Mr. Bennet, you must believe me, I did not… I did not…" She turned away to weep once more.
 
"No, Fanny, please, do not tell me…he did not!"
 
Swallowing hard, she nodded, though she could not face him. "He came to my chambers late at night. I did not want him there! I tried to scream, but he covered my mouth with his hand. I tried to fight him, but…but…"
 
"Oh, no, Fanny!" He could not restrain himself. Wrapping his long arms around her, he pulled her into his shoulder. "My precious Fanny. I am so sorry." Grief seized his chest in a painful pang that took his breath away.
 
"Now I am ruined!" She sobbed painfully into his coat.
 
"No, no you are not. It was not your fault, and I will not let that change anything. I met with my solicitor in London to have settlement papers drawn up. I came here with the intention of asking you for your hand in marriage. I love you, Miss Gardiner, and I want you to be my wife." He stared lovingly into her eyes ignoring the tightness in his throat.
 
"You do not understand!" she countered in a voice bordering on hysteria. "I…I…fear that…I am with child!" She fell prostrate on the bench.
 
Another man's child! She carries another man's child. But it is not her fault. She smiles too much, but that does not make her a public woman. I know her uncle's reputation. He is the worst sort of man. I cannot doubt what she has told me.
 
Can I be father to another man's child? He chewed his lip pensively. If I cannot, I cannot have Fanny. I do not want to imagine a future without her. That is far too bleak. Nor can I subject her to what her life would become as the mother of such a babe.
 
Moving to the end of the bench to speak into her ear, he began, "Listen to me, Miss Gardiner, I beseech you. I have heard all you have told me, and I understand. But it does not change my desires."
 
Stunned, she pushed herself up to stare wide-eyed into his face.
 
Boldly, he brushed tears from her cheek. "I have no doubt that you are not at fault, my dear, dear Miss Gardiner. I love you too much, and cannot fancy a life without you, whatever that means. If there is a child, I will call it my own, as long as that means you will be my wife. May I have your hand?"
 
"Are you certain?"
 
He nodded somberly. "Totally certain."
 
"Oh, Thomas!" A weary smile burst forth. "Yes, yes I want nothing more than to be Mrs. Bennet. I just believed…I thought you would not…"
 
Throwing propriety to the winds, he pulled her into his arms for another embrace. From the window, her mother watched, relieved. Though her daughter had told her nothing, Mrs. Gardiner knew her husband's brother and sadly suspected what had happened. He is a good man and will make her the best of husbands.
 

One month later Thomas Bennet arrived at the Gardiners' home to much the same scene as the night he had proposed. Fanny was in the garden weeping, her mother fretted in the sitting room and her father was closeted in his bookroom.
 
As before, he raced to her side, the sounds of her soft weeping filling his ears. She has been ill for days and has not received my calls. Now this? What could have happened?
"Miss Gardiner?" he asked softly, "why do you weep? Are you still unwell?"
 
"No, sir," she whispered, not looking at him.
 
"You must tell me, what is wrong?" he pleaded, taking her hand. His heart froze when she turned to look at him and he saw the expression she wore.
 
"You have no more need to protect me, Mr. Bennet. My reputation will remain untarnished. I have…I have lost the…the…" her voice broke. "You are free, Mr. Bennet. You are far too good a man for the likes of me."
 
A sudden anger welled up. "That is enough! Has your sister, Mrs. Phillips, been here tormenting you?"
 
Silently, Fanny nodded, tears flowing down her cheeks.
 
"I swear, when we are married, that harridan will not be permitted in our home!" he growled with uncharacteristic venom. "I have had enough of her constant berating and belittling of you! Why do you persist in paying attention to what she says?"
 
"I…I…I do not know."
 
"Oh, my dearest Fanny, too many people have spoken to you so. I know your mother and brother are the only ones who have been gentle with you. But I will see to it that when you are my wife you will never again…"
 
"Your wife?" She blinked, her brow knit.
 
"Of course you will be my wife. That pearl ring you wear, is that not why I gave it to you?" He laughed softly, rubbing his thumb across the ring.
 
"You would still? Even though…" she could not finish the thought.
 
"Of course. I cannot consider a future that does not include you as my wife. Come, let us go inside, your mother is nearly beside herself. Let your maid help you tidy up, then you can tell me the final plans for our wedding."
 

Eight years later, the mistress of Longbourn sat in her parlor, watching the drive in front of her house. Mr. Bennet would be returning from town soon. Upstairs the girls were playing quietly with the nursery maid. Everything around her was in order. She sighed contentedly. Her husband was respected in the community, her neighbors sought her company, they dined with four and twenty families in the area. The dire words that her father had spoken over her at her marriage to Mr. Bennet had not come to pass. She was not his ruination.
 
A strange carriage rolled up the drive, directly toward the house. Who could that be? It has no crest, and I have never seen it before. She hurried to the window to watch for who would disembark. Edith? What is she doing in a strange carriage? What would she be bringing someone here for? Fanny's eyes grew wide as she recognized the man and woman who followed her sister. Percy and Melissa? When did they return from the continent? I did not know they are come back! What are they doing here? Mr. Bennet declared they were not welcome at Longbourn. What am I to do?
 
Too soon, Mr. Hall, the butler, announced the guests and ushered them into the parlor.
 
"Sister, brother, I did not realize you were back," Fanny stammered uncertainly. "Edith, you did not tell me."
 
"We have been back nearly a month now, in London." Percy Rawls replied matter-of-factly.
 
"We have only just arrived in Meryton. Edith insisted we come to see you, as we have never seen Longbourn," Melissa, the eldest Gardiner sister added. "She has told me you have five daughters! Five!"
 
"Yes, I do," Fanny declared, blushing at her sister's tone. "They are fine, dear girls. My youngest, Lydia just began walking. I will have the nursery maid bring them down directly." She scurried away nervously, desperately wanting to be free of her company. Mr. Bennet does not want them here! But how can I dismiss them? What am I to do? I do not wish to hurt their feelings? Oh where are you, Mr. Bennet?
 
Fanny returned shortly with the girls and their nursery maid in tow. "These are my daughters. Children, this is your Aunt and Uncle Rawls. They have been on the continent all these years. That is why you have never met them. They are only just come back."
 
"We are pleased to meet you," seven year-old Jane offered softly at the urging of the nurse. Awkwardly, she tried to curtsey.
 
"I am Lizzy," the precocious five and a half year-old pressed forward to offer her own curtsey.
 
Kitty and Mary hid behind their nurse's skirts while Lydia struggled to free herself from the young woman's arms.
 
"They are fine girls, are they not?" Fanny suggested, a little timidly.
 
"Have you only one nursery maid for all five?" Rawls demanded, a touch of scorn in his voice.
 
"Why yes, they are good children and have no need…"
 
Melissa rolled her eyes. "Really, Fanny, I would have thought better of you. Your oldest should be under the care of a governess by now, learning all those accomplishments she will need in order to save her family."
 
"Save them? Save them from what?" the young mother demanded, alarmed. "Patsy, please return the girls to the nursery."
 
Bobbing her own curtsey, the nursery maid ushered the girls out.
 
"Now what is it you believe my Jane must save her family from?" Fanny demanded angrily.
 
"Why, the entail, dear. Have you forgotten that Longbourn is entailed away from your daughters," Melissa's saccharine voice dripped venom. "Or did Edith tell me wrongly in her letters?"
 
Fanny's hear raced, her breath coming short. "It is true."
 
"So if anything happens to your dear, foolish Mr. Bennet, you will be thrown out into the hedgerows, my dear, unless your girls make good matches." Mellissa gracefully slid onto the couch beside her youngest sister. "Have you not wondered why God has not given you a son?"
 
"Melissa!" Edith Phillips snapped. "You have gone too far!"
 
"Hold your tongue, woman!" Rawls commanded, glaring at Edith.
 
"You are being punished for what you have done." Condescendingly, the eldest sister laid her arm over Fanny's shoulders.
 
"What have I done?" Mrs. Bennet whispered hoarsely, her stomach knotted miserably.
 
"We all know what you have done, Fanny. There is no need to pretend. The maid kept the bloody sheets…"
 
A low moan escaped her lips as Fanny doubled over in great, heaving sobs.
 
"We have all seen the evidence of your low morals. That is why you have only girls," Rawls pronounced judgmentally. "Sadly, you are not a fit mother for them."
 
"How can you say such a thing!" Edith argued again. "They are fine, sweet girls! She has raised them…"
 
"To be loose women like herself!" Percy hissed, taking a threatening step toward Fanny. "She is a liar and a public woman. Had Bennet known, he would never have taken the …"
 
"Mr. Rawls! Stop it, you cannot say such things!" Mrs. Phillips jumped between Mr. Rawls and her younger sister.
 
Angrily, he pushed the offending woman away and she fell awkwardly to the floor with a thin scream.
 
"Stop it!" Fanny jumped up.
 
"We know what you are Fanny," Rawls pressed, his wife rising to hem her sister in between them. "But your girls do not have to suffer your same fate."
 
"The Lord has not given us children," Melissa whispered softly. "But that is so that we can provide a decent home and upbringing for yours. I can raise them to be ladies, as my own daughters. They will make fine matches. I can introduce them to the Ton, they will have all the advantages that an accomplished woman can give them."
 
"You cannot have my girls!" Fanny stamped her foot furiously. "Get out of my house! Get out! Mr. Bennet has never welcomed you here and would not want you to stay! Get out!"
 
"Not without those girls! You cannot raise them, Fanny. You are no better than a common whore!" Rawls snapped back.
 
Without thinking, Fanny whirled on him, slapping him as hard as she could. His head snapped back and he stumbled, catching his heel in the carpet. The heavy-set man tumbled backward, striking the back of his head against the fire irons. He lay still upon the floor.
 
"What have you done!" Melissa flew to her husband's side. "He's dead! He's dead! You have killed him!"
 
Edith flew from the room to find the butler. "Send for the doctor now!" she ordered.
 
Mr. Bennet suddenly burst into the house, in the midst of the chaos. "What is going on in my home?" he demanded.
 
"Mr. Rawls is dead!" Edith cried, pointing toward the parlor.
 
"Get the doctor," Bennet nodded at the butler, who had still not moved. Turning back to his sister-in-law, "You brought that miserable toad into my house?"
 
"They just arrived. They had not met the girls! They had not seen Longbourn!" Mrs. Phillips stammered.
 
Pushing her aside, he rushed in to the parlor to see Rawls on the floor, his wife kneeling beside him and Fanny standing in the middle of the room, pale and trembling.
 
"I…I…killed him…" she whispered, a lost look on her face.
 
"No, you did not. You have not the strength to do such a thing," Bennet whispered in her ear, wrapping her in his arms.
 
"She did! She did! She killed him," Melissa argued from her place on the floor.
 
"No. I can see that the carpet is bunched. He tripped and fell. Fanny had nothing to do with it." He ushered his wife out of the room. Mr. Hall waited anxiously outside the room. "Call for Mr. Phillips to attend his wife and sister. I will take Mrs. Bennet upstairs. I want both her sisters removed from Longbourn as soon as possible."
 
"Yes sir. Is Mrs. Bennet well?" Hall asked, with genuine concern.
 
"I will see to her. Send Hill upstairs as soon as she is available." Carefully, Thomas guided his wife up the stairs and into her rooms. Gentle hands helped her sit on the edge of her bed. "Now Fanny, tell me what happened." His voice was firm, he knew she needed his strength to draw her from her shock.
 
"They came. I knew you did not want them here, but I did not know how to turn them away. I did not wish to hurt their feelings," she began numbly, but her face crumbled. "They wanted to take the girls! They said I was an unfit mother, that God was punishing me by giving me only daughters!"
 
"I have never heard something so absurd!" Bennet hissed. "Our girls are not a punishment! They are my delight! How could they claim such a thing?"
 
"They know!" Fanny began to sob. "He said I was nothing but a common whore!" She fell into her pillows, her cries wracking her body.
 
"Oh Fanny! My dear, sweet wife!" He laid his hand on her back, rubbing comfortingly. "I promise you, none of those words will leave this house. I will not hear such things spoken against you or the girls. You will never hear such words again, my love. Do not believe a word that was said." He leaned down to kiss her cheek. "I must go downstairs to deal with the doctor, but do not fear, dear Fanny. I promise you, I will take care of you."
 
He rose and left the room, finding Hill waiting at the door. "How is she, sir?" the concerned housekeeper whispered.
 
"Stay with her, be gentle with her. I fear they broke her heart today. She does not deserve this. Do whatever she needs. All I want is to see her well again."
 
Nodding, Hill slipped into the mistress' chambers. Setting his features into a grim expression, Thomas Bennet descended the stairs.

Ch 24: Time to leave childish things behind

Posted on 2010-11-21

A convoy of coaches slowly rolled down the road toward Meryton. The lead coach bore the Darcy family crest. The other two, though fine vehicles, had no such decoration.
 
"Harumph," Darcy grumbled as the town slowly rose into view. "I imagine the society is something savage." He squared his shoulders and looked away from the side glass.
 
"Come now, Darcy!" Bingley chided gently. "You really must leave this attitude of yours behind." I have seen it far too often, and I know it does you no favors.
 
"I must? Those are strong words coming from you." I am stiff and tired, and in no mood to humor you. Frowning, he crossed his arms over his chest.
 
"Put away that Master of Pemberly mask, Darcy. It no longer impresses me." Bingley laughed good naturedly, crossing his long legs in front of him and stretching.
 
"He is right, Fitzwilliam," Bradley agreed softly, carefully watching the interaction between the friends. "You scare off a goodly number of people with that attitude." And you have been doing it all you life. As much as you have been trying to help your friend grow up and become his own man, it is time for you too to grow up and leave childish things behind.
 
"That is precisely what he is trying to do." Charles raised his brow toward the vicar, with a knowing smile. "I have seen him bring out this particular tactic under many circumstances."
 
"Bingley…" Darcy warned with a stern expression.
 
"You do not frighten me any longer with that look," Bingley smiled. "I know what it means."
 
"And what would that be?" Bradley glanced at Darcy, who shifted uneasily in his seat. He smiled to himself. Charles is good for him. Fitzwilliam needs someone to prod him from his ease and force him out of his mask.
 
"I saw that look at Cambridge many times. It is the look of a man who is uncomfortable in company."
 
Darcy crossed his arms tightly over his chest. "I have never been fond of company. I do not understand the point." A familiar frown spread across his face. "People milling about with those they do not know, talking about things which are unimportant, doing things they would rather not do."
 
"Like dancing?" Charles teased gently.
 
"Explain to me the point of shuffling about the floor, hoping not to trod upon the toes of a woman you do not know, keeping time to music that you do not enjoy," Darcy's large hands spread wide in front of him, seeking understanding.
 
His companions laughed sympathetically.
 
"When you put it that way, I can see why you would not favor such pastimes." Bradley rubbed his chin, smiling.
 
"If you had your way, Darcy, you would find a woman as fascinated by estate management as you. You could discuss your new seed drills and crop rotations! No small talk over the weather for you! No, tenant disputes and the price of wheat would dominate your dinner table conversation."
 
"Pray tell what is so wrong with preferring useful conversation to mindless fluff?" Darcy turned to stare out the window once more. Why must my preferences always be in the wrong?
 
"Nothing at all, young master," Bradley agreed, reaching across the coach to slap Darcy's shoulder.
 
They rode on in companionable silence for a few minutes.
 
"Really, Darcy, you have nothing to worry about while you are here. No one knows you, and once you leave, you will just as likely never see them again. It is a wonderful place for you to spread your wings and learn the gentle art of conversation and social interaction." Bingley smiled encouragingly.
 
Darcy glared. I cannot believe you would expect me to expose myself in such company. I will do no such thing, and no amount of pleading from you will change my mind. His jaw set with determination.
 
"I mean that genuinely. I will help you, just like we did at school. When I occupy Netherfield, I will host dinners, parties, perhaps even a ball. I will help you to get to know the neighborhood…"
 
"You have not even seen the house yet! Already you talk of meeting the neighbors and hosting gatherings? Are you not putting the cart before the horse?" Impulsive! Will you never learn, Charles? You cannot make these leaps without thinking! Pemberley's master pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head.
 
"I have every faith it will be as Mr. Cooperton's solicitor described. I say, you really do not need to be so gloomy," Bingley raked his unruly hair back from his eyes.
 
"I am not gloomy. I am a realist."
 
"The difference hardly signifies," Bingley huffed, but immediately softened. "Do not be anxious, my friend. The new scenery will do you a world of good. You have been as a brother to me. Let me now repay the favor."
 
Darcy sighed and, with a frown, nodded, leaning his forehead on his hand. The coach lurched to a stop. "I believe we have arrived at the inn where you were to meet Netherfield's owner. If you would like, Bradley, we can let Bingley off here and I can accompany you to the curate's cottage, then return here."
 
"I would value your company, sir." He wants to talk alone.
 
"Capital. I shall have our things sent up to our rooms. I am sure Louisa would like to refresh herself before visiting the house and grounds." Charles nodded and left the coach. "With any luck, I will be able to talk with Bascombe before you return."
 
Darcy followed to give instructions to the driver. Moments later, he settled back into his seat. For several minutes they rode on, watching the town through the side glass.
 
"I have known you for too long, young master," Bradley began softly, "to be able to ignore it when you are so troubled."
 
"It is so clear?"
 
"I am afraid so. I can only imagine that you wish to speak of it as well." Bradley smiled gently.
 
Darcy frowned and chewed his lip. "I fear this trip is a mistake."
 
"How is that? The timing could not be better with your sister visiting your aunt and the spring planting finished."
 
"I know the timing is good; you have all told me that many times over!" Darcy rolled his eyes. "That is not the issue." You already know, but you are going to make me speak the words. Why must you make this more difficult?
 
"I know it is not. Why not tell me what concerns you?"
 
You know it as well as I do! "I am not fit for company, Bradley, I never have been."
 
"Yet you have surrounded yourself with dear friends in Derbyshire. This is not consistent with what you are telling me now." He still has no confidence with those he does not know. It is such a shame that he isolates himself when he is away from home.
 
"But I have known them all my life!"
 
"Are not the Lackleys only recently come to Derbyshire? If I recall correctly, he only purchased the estate two years ago."
 
Frustrated, Darcy raked his hand through his thick hair, "It is not the same."
 
"No, it is not. You met them in the Cooperton's home, surrounded by people you knew and were comfortable with. That made it easy for you to get to know them."
 
"Exactly!" The younger man sighed with relief. "Here, I am…I am so alone! I know no one. Bingley knows no one. What am I to do?"
 
Leaning back in his seat, the vicar extended his hands. "Let Bingley do what he has always done. He will soon know and love everyone here, and will smooth the way for you."
 
"I do not know." Stubbornly, Darcy shook his head, "I have safely delivered you here as I told you I would. I will see the house as I promised Bingley, then I will return home. Write me when you are ready to return, send an express and I will…"
 
"You will do no such thing!" Bradley rebuked sharply. "You are behaving like a child. It is time for you to stop. Really, Fitzwilliam, I think you have spent far too much time holed away on your estate. It is high time for you to get out and about. How will you ever find a wife…"
 
"A wife?" Darcy exclaimed incredulously. "Here in the quaint little village of Meryton, a wife? Surely you jest."
 
"You are right, I do not expect you to find a wife here. But it is a good place for you to practice those skills which will make you acceptable to young ladies of your standing. Do not look at me so offended! You say yourself you cannot make small talk. Practice! You do not like to begin conversations with those you do not know well. Work on that here. I remember you complaining that you would rather not dance with ladies you do not know well. Here is the place to become accustomed to doing it."
 
"You cannot be serious! At a country dance? To stand up with the girls here would be a punishment."
 
"Must I remind you that pride goest before a fall?"
 
Rubbing his temples, Darcy rolled his eyes. "You of all people know it is not pride…"
 
"I know, I know. You are shy, as was your father. I well understand. But I also understand how your father appeared to those who did not know him. Many thought him a proud, even arrogant, aloof man. I fear you will have the same reputation if you do not choose to take the time to practice these things that do not come easily to you." Bradley watched his companion's shoulders sag. "I find myself wondering, at times, young master, if shyness is not in itself a form of pride, elevating its own comfort and desires over others. You allow shyness to be your excuse to remove yourself from situations uncomfortable for you, regardless of what might be best for others, placing yourself above them. Shyness thinks of itself first and foremost. Is that not pride?"
 
Darcy hid his face in his large hands. "I will make a fool of myself. I have no love of being laughed at," he whispered. Is it possible I am truly proud and unfeeling to others? Do I really think only of myself? How can he accuse me of such?
 
"That is the beauty of a place where no one knows you. If that should happen, and I honestly cannot imagine that it would, but if it did, you could leave, and no one you know would be the wiser. The company here is not the company you keep in London. I believe that your reputation would be undamaged." Compassionately, he reached to clap the young man's shoulder. "The only way you learn to do something difficult…"
 
"Is through practice. I know. How many times have I heard you telling me that?" A wry smile turned the corners of Darcy's lips.
 
"How many times was I right?"
 
"Too many to ignore. I know you are right, but I do not have to like it." Worse still I fear you are right in your accusation as well.
 
"Of course you do not. I do not ever believe I told you that you did." They shared a soft laugh. "I believe we are approaching Mr. Pierce's cottage. He said it was on the outskirts of Longbourn estate. Yes, there, I see it." Bradley pointed out the window toward the neat cottage off the lane.
 
"It seems well kept," Darcy remarked noncommittally. "Are you sure you will be comfortable there? You are more than welcome to take rooms with Bingley and me at the inn."
 
"I appreciate your offer, and I will keep it in mind should the need arise. However, I have my own reasons for wanting to accept the curate's invitation."
 
"How better to get to know a man than to see firsthand how he lives?"
 
"Indeed. It seems you have listened well to this old man." He smiled fondly at Darcy.
 
The coach slowed to a stop. Slowly Bradley moved to disembark, allowing Darcy to exit first and help him down.
 
"I will send the baggage coach along with your trunk when I get back to the inn." Darcy watched as the cottage door opened and a pleasant looking young man walked out.
 
"I would appreciate that very much. Thank you for making this a much more pleasant trip. I am afraid you are spoiling me from traveling post!" Warmly, the vicar shook hands with his patron before turning to the approaching man. "Mr. Pierce, I trust?"
 
"I am indeed. Mr. Bradley?" He extended his hand warmly. "Welcome to my home."
 
"Thank you very kindly, good sir." Bradley shook Pierce's hand. "Now, I am certain I am in good hands, Darcy. It is high time you return to Mr. Bingley. I fear he will be sorely in need of your good sense soon."
 
"I am sure you are correct. Good day." He touched the brim of his hat and returned to the waiting coach.
 

Louisa Bingley allowed her brother to hand her down from the coach. Cautiously she looked around her. It does not seem a bad sort of place, I suppose. From the look of it, it is probably the best establishment in town. Caroline would declare it frightful! She would insist we immediately return to London. But I think it rather charming.
 
Bingley carefully watched his sister's face. "Are you disappointed, Louisa?" His hand gently lingered on her arm.
 
"Not disappointed, only surprised, I think. I did not expect Meryton to be so…quaint, that is all."
 
"Will you miss the diversions of London so very much?"
 
"I do not know really." She looked up and down the street, eyes flitting from one establishment to the next.
 
"You know I do not want to make you unhappy. I did not ask you to be the mistress of my home just to see you discontent with the role," Bingley insisted.
 
"Please, Charles, if you do not take this house, I will have to go back to London, with Caroline. As it is, she expects to accompany Mr. Hurst and me on our honeymoon. I dare say she will ask to stay on in our home after that. She is quite decided against living away from London after her visit to Derbyshire. This is the first, and maybe only, time I am able to…" Louisa stopped herself and pressed her lips into a tight frown.
 
"That you will have the opportunity to live without her?"
 
"Yes," she whispered, looking at the ground. She dug her toes into the soft dirt. "It is horrible to say, I suppose, but I…"
 
"You are happy for the opportunity?" He squeezed her arm encouragingly.
 
"Yes, I am. You and I, we have much quieter dispositions. We do not wish to argue. We prefer peace in our home. She always wishes to be heard, and will fight to get her way. She is reluctant to give way to anyone else. I find that I would like to see, if even for a little while, what it might be like to make decisions for myself."
 
Charles laughed softly. "I understand all too well. I cannot say that I was entirely disappointed when Caroline had so violent a reaction to Mrs. Cooperton's tutelage." I think perhaps I need to write a long letter to Mr. Hurst. I know he does not prefer Caroline's company and tolerates her only for Louisa's sake. Perhaps they are too accommodating to each other to speak their true minds on the matter. If he knew her true feelings, I think he would be only too happy to take a stronger stance with Caroline.
 
"You do not know the half of it, if the truth is to be fully told!" Louisa giggled. "You should have read her letters! I have rarely heard her so bitter."
 
"Then it is for the best. I expect the society here will be happy and gentle with us. It will suit us very well, I think. But it is likely to be far too tame for our dear sister. She is better off in London where she is. So then, let us make our arrangements at the inn. I believe I have a new landlord to meet."
 

"The Bennets are quite decent landlords," Mr. Pierce explained, handing Mr. Bradley a cup of tea. "Since I have not the use of the vicarage, they have made me feel very welcome here. Though humble, this cottage is well maintained, warm in the winter and dry in the rain." He chuckled contentedly, easing himself into a chair. "The rent is fair and perhaps, most importantly, they do not feel the need to come here looking for gossip."
 
With a knowing smile, Bradley nodded. "I believe I know the parishioner of which you speak all too well! They are resident in my parish as well." A man who does not complain about his landlord when given the opportunity is one I can appreciate. "So then, tell me of your vicar, Mr. Bell, I believe it is."
 
"Yes, that is he. Have you met him?" Bradley shook his head. "I will make sure that you do while you are here. I believe he is in Hertfordshire this month. He is a good man; certainly more than fair. He could have had me much more cheaply, I am afraid to say. But he believes that the worker is worth his wage, and is therefore very generous with me."
 
And he does not complain about his wage. Promising indeed. "So then, is he away from here often? Where does he travel?"
 
"London mostly. Many believe that he is soon to become a bishop. He spends much time with the church leadership there."
 
"Interesting. How do you feel about that, sir, your vicar becoming a bishop?" Bradley steepled his fingers and leaned his chin upon his fingertips.
 
"Does not the good book say that the eye is not a hand and the hand not a foot? Each should serve in the best way he can with the gifts he is given, without jealousy or envy?" Pierce peered into Bradley's eyes.Do you wish for me to criticize him? I am afraid I cannot oblige. "He is a gifted man in those very areas that will serve him well if he is made bishop. I will rejoice with him if he attains the post. I however, do not have those same gifts. I do not seek such an exalted rank, not having the gifts to serve in such a capacity."
 
Bradley nodded thoughtfully.
 
"I must ask a question of my own now. These questions of yours, I can see that they are quite intentional, but I cannot make out to what end. What are you trying to discern, sir?" Pierce leaned back in his chair, drumming his fingers on the arm rest.
 
"You clearly received my letter, so you know…"
 
"I understand that you are looking for a curate. But I still wonder why you are questioning me. I already have a curacy, as you can see, so I am not a candidate for your position. If you would like a recommendation, I know of several young men, just japanned, who would very much appreciate the position you offer."
 
"Thank you, but no. I suppose I am a peculiar fellow. I was curate for my parish for quite a long time. I have only just taken the living myself. I feel rather…protective…of my flock. I find I have more work to do than I can manage on my own…"
 
That is interesting. He seeks an assistant, not a substitute. How unusual. "So, you are looking for someone to help you with what? Visitation? Preaching? Civic duties?"
 
Patience, my young friend, you will need to develop that virtue. But that only comes with time and experience, neither of which you have had enough of yet. "I will explain all that later. The crux of the matter is that I am looking for a like-minded man who I can raise up to take my place when the time comes. When the Good Lord calls me to His bosom, I want to depart this earthly vessel with the peace of knowing my people will be well shepherded."
 
"What is it you are looking for in such a man?" Pierce stroked his slightly stubbled cheek. I must admit, this fellow is not what I expected. But he is intriguing. There is something I like very much about him. "I am afraid I am not likely to be what you are looking for. Most find me rather unconventional, I fear."
 
A broad smile lit the old vicar's face.That is exactly why I am here. "Truly. In what ways, sir? I have been called that myself on more than one occasion."
 
Chuckling warmly, the curate shook his head. "Most recently, Sir William Lucas, our local knight, reminded me of it when he asked me again why I should write and preach my own sermons when there are so many perfectly good ones already written that I could choose from!"
 
"Pray tell, how did you answer him?" Excellent.
 
"I told him that I was hopelessly indecisive, and it was far easier for me to write my own than to choose from amongst the plethora already written. He seemed quite satisfied with that." Pierce chuckled softly.
 
It is difficult to dislike a man who can laugh at himself. "A good answer, I am impressed."
 
"But you have not given me an answer…what are you looking for? I do not wish for you to waste your time…"
 
"It is never a waste to take time to know a brother in the service of our good Lord. I hesitate to tell you what I am looking for though. A proud man would tell me he fits my description, even if he does not, and I fear a humble man would tell me he does not, even if he does."
 
"That is quite the quandary, I suppose. How do you mean to resolve it?" You are quite a puzzle Mr. John Bradley. I will indeed enjoy sorting it all out. Pierce lifted his eyebrow over his teacup.
 
"All I ask is that you allow me to get to know you. That will tell me what I need to know."
 
"An interesting request, all told, but I have nothing to hide. If you wish to know me, perhaps it would be best for me to introduce you to the parish. As the good book says, you know a man by the fruit he bears. It is my dearest wish that they be the fruit of my life, so in them, you will see me…" a small smile blossomed into a hearty laugh.
 
"Why do you laugh?"
 
"I find I am already rethinking my idea a bit. Little Billy Thompson might not be the shining example of my influence."
 
"Really? I think I would like to hear this story." Elbows on his knees, Bradley leaned forward to listen.
 
"Naturally." Blushing, Pierce recounted how the Bennet sisters discovered Billy's transgressions, but heir interventions also kept him from the magistrate. "As I said, perhaps not my most shining example…"
 
"I cannot say I agree with you. I find that a man's character becomes most clear when he is dealing with the mistakes of others." What a fitting and proper solution for everyone involved. "I think I would like to start with meeting the Bennets, and the Clays and Thompsons, if you are willing to make those introductions for me."
 
"All right, I will do that. But you must answer another question for me. If you decide that I am what you are looking for, why should I consider your offer? Surely you realize that I will not come cheap. I have the curacy here on very easy terms. Why would I be inclined to give that up?" Crossing his arms over his chest, the curate waited.
 
"A fair question. I am afraid I must ask you to wait on that answer though. I do not want the knowledge of that to sway you one way or another." You are not nearly so concerned with the salary I would offer you as you are trying to make me believe. You still want answers from me, but you will have be patient.
 
Pierce threw back his head and laughed. "You are certainly an odd man, perhaps as eccentric as I. But you intrigue me, I will wait. Will you let me know nothing of you in the meantime?"
 
"I can offer this.The patron of my parish is visiting Meryton with his friend. His father was a dear friend, and his son is stepping into that role as well. You can learn a great deal about a man by knowing his friends." And it would answer another of my questions. I could never select a man who did not have Darcy's respect.
 
"Fair enough. I will look forward to the introduction."
 
"So then, you write your own sermons, do you? Tell me of what you last preached." Bradley settled into his chair, ready to enjoy pleasant conversation that would last long into the night.
 

"Thank you kindly for your visit, Miss Bennet." Mrs. Downs bobbed her head agreeably.
 
"I hope that the children are feeling better soon. Being confined with a cold is so difficult for them! I will inform Papa of the storm damage to the roof as soon as he returns. I am sure we will get it set to rights soon." Lizzy smiled as she took her leave.
 
The afternoon sun beat down upon her. Summer will be here soon. It will not be long until it is time to begin setting up preserves; the berries are almost ripe. I need to check with Hill to find out what needs to be ordered from town to make ready for that. She laughed to herself as she twirled on her toes. It was not so very long ago that I longed to be useful and have some meaningful employment for my time. Now I cannot seem to find a moment to gather two thoughts together! I can see why Mama finds it all so unmanageable. Oh Mama! I am sure you will be yourself soon.
 
She paid little attention as she walked home, the paths so familiar, her feet knew the way. Papa's letter said he should arrive home tomorrow with Uncle Gardiner and a guest. I wonder who he might be bringing. I cannot remember the last time anyone other than Aunt and Uncle Gardiner stayed with us. Papa is so particular about overnight company.
 
The tone of his letter was so very odd. Perhaps something has gone wrong with his business in Kent. I do hope he is pleased with what we have done at Longbourn. It would be a shame for him to be further distressed when he arrives home.
 
I hope he will allow us to continue as we have been once he returns.The past three weeks have been so challenging. How could I have managed but for Jane, Mary and Kitty. Who thought Kitty so clever with her sums? And Mary such a fount of good sense. She has applied herself so diligently to Lady Lucas' instruction!
 
It seems this time has been good for Mama as well. It was exciting to see her finally venture below stairs to visit with Lady Lucas. Perhaps her spirits are finally returning. She did appear pleased to hear Lady Lucas speak of Mary's accomplishments. When Charlotte and Maria began to gush over the small dinner we hosted, Mama positively beamed. Having them for tea was such a good idea. I am so glad Jane thought of it.
 
Oh Jane! She was so anxious when Papa left! Now she is transformed. She glows with confidence. Is it possible that she is even more beautiful now? I know she will be disappointed if Papa wishes us to return to the way things were. Oh well. It does no good to worry about it now.
 
Oh look! That patch of berries is quite ripe! I will have to let Hill know to send the girls out this way.
 

Darcy gazed pensively out the window as the carriage slowly rolled down the road. Bradley's words still rang in his ears, Many thought him a proud, even arrogant, aloof man. I fear you will have the same reputation . He removed his hat and raked his hair. My father was not unduly proud. Anyone who knew him understood he was just reserved and uncomfortable in company, as am I. Angrily, he crossed his arms over his chest. Those few close enough to know him understood, but those who did not, what did they see? Could it be that Bradley is right, they saw Father as an arrogant and unfeeling man? Nothing could have been further from the truth! He felt everything so deeply. His brow knit tightly in thought.
 
The heat in the coach suddenly became stifling. His chest felt tight, his breathing suddenly constricted. He rapped on the roof to stop the driver. Quickly he jumped from the confining vehicle. "I have been in the coach too long today," he called to the driver. "I must walk for a while. Go on to the inn, I will make my way on foot."
 
"Are you certain, sir? I can wait here while you refresh yourself, then continue the drive," the driver, a long-time Darcy employee, offered.
 
"No, no, there is no need. The horses need to be watered and rested. Inform Mr. Bingley of my plans."
 
"Very good, sir." With a nod, the driver slapped the reins and the horses walked on.
 
Darcy stood in the road a moment, watching the coach depart. He breathed deeply, suddenly relieved to be in the open air once more. Spying a small path into the woods, he left the road. This will do very well. I need to clear my mind. His long legs quickly carried him onto the tree lined trail.
 
I remember that day I overheard Uncle Matlock defending Father to Aunt Catherine. She called my father a cold, heartless, arrogant man. But my Uncle told her she could not be more wrong. Uncle Matlock and Father were always very close. Perhaps Bradley is right. Even our family was mistaken about Father's true nature. What must society have thought of him?
 
Suddenly he threw up his hands. What am I saying? Of course Bradley is right! When has that blasted man ever been wrong? Angrily he kicked a small stone out of his way. But if he is not wrong, then I must be. How tired I am of being wrong! Will there ever be a day when he is not correcting my folly? Here I am the master of Pemberley, and he must still reform my character as though I were a mere boy! He is truly maddening!
 
His footsteps crunched loudly through the deadfall. Just off the path, he noticed a patch of ripe raspberries. Without thinking, he left the clear trail, heading for the tempting fruit. I remember mother would take me to the berry patches near the stream when they would come ripe. These look so much like the bushes I remember. It has been years since I thought about those days. She would pack a picnic sometimes, and Father would join us. We would take our lunch there and feast on the berries after. Somehow the fruit always tasted best by the banks of the stream.
 
Idly he plucked some raspberries, pricking his fingers on the thorns. These are so sweet. They are well worth the sting. Listen to me! I cannot escape him, even here! How often has Bradley said that the sweetness of righteousness is worth the sting of correction! His words follow and torment me where ever I turn. It is enough. With a sigh, he settled himself on a fallen log and rested his chin on his laced fingers.
 
So what must I do? Practice! He said I must practice. He expects me to do those things that I am uncomfortable doing until they are not so difficult…How odd; Father told me the same thing when he was teaching me to ride. He said that I must not allow the discomfort to dissuade me. How many times did he tell me to master my uneasiness and bring it under good regulation? I did not like it at first, but now riding is second nature to me. If I do as Bradley suggests, is it possible that one day I could be like Bingley?
 
Looking up to study the clouds, he pictured himself at a ball, behaving like his friend. He barked, laughing at the absurdity. No, I am most certain that such a thing will never be. Nor will I ever be as my cousin, Richard, but perhaps I might become known as a quiet man instead of a proud one.
 
I believe that would do very well. That sounds like something I might actually be able to achieve. It is settled then, I will apply myself to that very thing. With Bingley to assist me as he has promised, perhaps I can become known as the quiet master of Pemberley, for that is who I am, is it not?
 
Pushing himself up from the log, he sighed, looking around. With deep consternation, he suddenly realized that he was lost. His quest for berries had taken him off the path; now the trail was nowhere in sight. Unfamiliar as he was with the area, he immediately realized the trouble he was in. Turning about, he tried to find his own footsteps to retrace his path.
 
His concentration was broken by a sweet laugh. A feminine voice broke out lightly in song.
 
There is someone else out here! Perhaps I can ask for direction! His heart pounded wildly at the thought of such an easy salvation. "You there! Pray excuse me!" he called loudly looking about for the woman to whom the voice belonged..
 
The singing stopped. "Who calls me?" Light footsteps and a rustling of branches followed.
 
"I am a visitor here. I am afraid I am lost."
 
"Have you a name, sir?" A face appeared in the bushes, the girl herself a moment later.
 
Darcy gasped, seeing the lovely young woman suddenly standing before him. She wore a simple pale green muslin dress trimmed with pink ribbons and a straw bonnet clearly made to match. She is from a family of some means--gently bred. Of all people to meet in such a way! "Forgive me, madam. I have indeed forgotten my manners. Since there is no one to make a proper introduction, I fear I am left to introduce myself. I am Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley in Derbyshire." He bowed slightly.
 
"I am pleased to meet you Mr. Darcy of Pemberley." She curtsied. "I am Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn. It is my father's estate that you have trespassed upon." She smiled lightly, her eyes twinkling. He is dressed as a gentleman and speaks as one. I wonder what business brings him to Meryton.
 
"Please forgive my trespass, Miss Bennet. I assure you it was wholly unintended. I am afraid I have become lost and am in need of some assistance." She is a gentlewoman! How untoward that I should have to speak to her without introduction! I hope she does not think ill of me for it.
 
"How have you come to be here, Mr. Darcy? It seems strange that a visitor should be lost in my father's woods so far from the main road," Lizzy's brow rose archly, but her sweet voice was almost teasing.
 
She bears me no ill will! Relief suffused over him. "I suppose it would seem so, madam. We have driven a long distance to reach Meryton this day. I just left my friend at the cottage slightly down the road from here…"
 
"Mr. Pierce's cottage?" Her eyes widened in recognition. I did not know he was expecting guests.
 
"I believe that was the name."
 
She smiled warmly, "He is our curate, and my father's tenant. We think very highly of him."
 
"That is good to know. My friend is my vicar, and we all think very highly of him as well." Her eyes are quite striking. I can hardly turn away from them. I think I have spoken more to her than I have any young woman outside of my circle in a year at least!
 
"You were telling me of how you came to be in the woods, sir."
 
"Ah, yes. I felt the need to stretch my legs, so I told my driver to go back to town without me, that I might walk back to town. I saw a small path off the road and decided to follow it. I was distracted by the loveliness of your woods, and suddenly realized I no longer knew where I was." He laughed at his own folly. She is so easy to speak with. I wonder if it is being out of doors and away from the drawing rooms that makes it so. Or is it something about her?
 
With a mischievous glint in her eye, she nodded. "Indeed I should laugh at your misfortune, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley, but I would truly be a hypocrite for doing so, as often as I myself have made the same mistake. I would be happy to help you find your way back to the main road."
 
"I am quite in your debt, Miss Bennet." He bowed deeply to his rescuer. "Usually I am far more observant."
 
"I find long hours in a carriage cause my mind to wander as well. I am quite sympathetic." She stepped closer to him, pushing the basket she carried ahead of her through the bushes.
 
She has traveled…long hours in a carriage…I wonder where she has been. No, it is too forward, I must not ask. Not yet. But that does speak to the means of her family. She does not appear to be of my circles, but certainly a gentlewoman nonetheless. Undoubtedly a family Bingley should become acquainted with. He smiled to himself. "Might I be of service, Miss Bennet? May I carry that for you?" he offered, reaching for the large basket.
 
"It is empty and of no weight at all. I am afraid you would have had to lose your way several hours ago for your offer to be truly gallant." She laughed as she allowed him to take the basket from her hands.
 
"Forgive me if I am being far too forward, madam, but might I ask what you would be bringing into the woods in such a large container? This would hold a meal for quite a large family, would it not?" He lifted the large vessel to examine it carefully. Did I just say that? What has gotten into me? The heat is surely affecting me. There can be no other explanation. I sound like Bingley!
 
"It probably is too forward a question for an acquaintance of such short duration, sir," she said somberly, despite the glint in her eye.Oh dear, it looks like he has taken my words far too seriously! He must think I am quite harsh! How many times has Mama warned me about my teasing ways? "But my mother has always told me I am far too forward myself, and a poor judge of such things, so I will answer you."
 
Darcy released the breath he did not realize he was holding as he watched the smile spread across her face.
 
"I set out this morning to bring jars of soup and other comforts to two of my father's tenants who are taken with spring colds. It seems there are a number in our fair village that are so afflicted at this time."
 
Visiting her father's tenants! His heart skipped a beat. Oh, Bingley would find this rich! "I am sorry to hear it, I hope it is nothing too serious. We recently lost our previous vicar to a cold that settled into his lungs."
 
Lizzy watched as a faraway look descended upon her new companion. He looks as though he feels the loss deeply. "I am sorry for your loss, sir."
 
"Thank you." What else does one say at such a time? I do not know. I am going to make a fool of myself. This is why I hate company! His expression grew heavy.
 
"So you have only recently seen your friend become vicar?" Lizzy interrupted gracefully. I hope I have not said something to distress the poor man. It must already be embarrassing enough that he is lost in another man's woods.
 
The light returned to Darcy's eyes. "Yes, he had been the curate. The parish was quite pleased to see him take the living. We rely upon his wisdom regularly."
 
"Ah, then, it is no wonder that he should be a friend of our Mr. Pierce. In the year he has been with us, he has proven himself a fount of wisdom for our fair village. It is an unusual parson who writes his own sermons. There is much speculation during the week of what he will speak of on Sunday"
 
Inexplicably, Darcy began to laugh.
 
"I do not understand, sir, what you find so amusing. Have I said something so laughable?" She crossed her arms, a vague look of annoyance in her eyes.
 
"Forgive me, madam. What you said reminded me of another vicar who is the exact opposite of the men we are speaking of. My aunt has recently given a living on her estate to a ridiculous parson who will never be accused of dispensing wisdom to his parish. His flock is truly safe from such unsettling influence! I imagine his sermons are also much discussed, but for very different reasons."
 
Lizzy joined his laughter. His eyes sparkle when he laughs. "If you find an unwise man so amusing, I cannot help but believe it is because a wise one has bent your ear. Is it possible that I am not the only one who is challenged by a parson's wise words?"
 
"Indeed that is true." He smiled humbly, surprised by the comfort he felt in this unfamiliar young woman's company. How is it that I am so able to talk to her? I have never done this before! She is unlike any woman I have met before. They walked on a few more steps.
 
"There, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley, is the main road which you seek." Lizzy pointed through a break in the branches.
 
"I am in your debt, Miss Bennet of Longbourn." He bowed seriously, handing her basket back. "I hope that I might make your acquaintance again under more conventional circumstances so that we may be properly introduced."
 
"I thank you, sir, for the compliment. If your stay here will be of some duration, then it is likely we will meet in town, or perhaps at the upcoming assembly." She curtsied.
 
"The other friend I traveled with is here to see Netherfield Park in anticipation of taking a lease there. Is that property near your father's estate?" Darcy asked, not yet willing to end their conversation.
 
"It is sir." New tenants at Netherfield! If his friend is like Mr. Darcy, that could be a very good thing indeed. It would be nice to make his acquaintance more properly. "Does your friend have a wife…"
 
"His sister will be keeping house…"
 
"Then I am sure my sisters and I will pay a call to her soon enough." Her smile made his heart beat faster. "Once you make it to the road, you will find a walk of less than hour will bring you into town"
 
After an awkward moment, Darcy nodded and turned back to the path leading to the main road, his mind now consumed by the value of a pair of fine eyes. Bradley will be please to hear I am not going home quite yet.
 
Lizzy looked over her shoulder, watching his retreat, wondering on the appeal of a young man's dimpled smile. I shall mention our new neighbors to Papa. I am glad to know Netherfield Park will be let at last.
 

*Eccl 3:1

Ch 26: The way of a fool seems right to him

Posted on 2010-11-28

The carriage lurched and swayed over the muddy road. Deep ruts and potholes, filled with water from the recent rains, scarred the usually smooth surface.
 
"I do not remember the roads being so bad," Mr. Phillips muttered under his breath. Why am I always stuck with the worst of company when the roads are so difficult?
 
Mr. Collins turned pale and rapped on the roof. "Stop the coach, driver." The moment the vehicle stopped, the parson leapt from the door, dashing into the woods.
 
"Not again," Mr. Bennet groaned. "I have never met a man with so weak a constitution! It is a wonder he has lived so long." And a curse.
 
"People always live forever when there is an annuity to be paid them or an entail to be inherited." Phillips screwed his lips into a crooked frown and stared out the side glass.
 
Bennet pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing. If I could just have the coachman go on and forget that odious man even exists. I know it is wrong to wish he might fall to highwaymen, and yet…
 
"What say you, shall we spare the horses and walk for a bit now that the road is heading uphill?" Edward Gardiner suggested.
 
"A capital idea!" Phillips declared, pushing open the door. "The fresh air will be quite welcome! I dare say it has been quite some time since our companion has bathed." His nose wrinkled tellingly.
 
"What was it his dear Lady patroness said?" Gardiner laughed, heaving himself from the coach. He shifted his posture, mimicking the great lady. "Mr. Collins, mark my words, avoid baths. Are you listening? Avoid them sir! They are dreadfully unhealthful things. They are, without a doubt, a dangerous practice, letting bad air into the body through the pores. It is one's clothes that must remain clean, for in their miasma, disease is found! I will be most seriously displeased if I find that you do not have your servant regularly washing your clothing. You must be an example to your parish."
 
Phillips and Bennet laughed heartily. "You are the very image of the mistress of Rosings Park! Best not allow Collins see you, lest he suffer an apoplexy." Bennet rolled his eyes and walked on to speak to the coachman.
 
"To imagine a woman with such ready opinions so uninformed…" Phillips shook his head.
 
"And so well perfumed!" Gardiner elbowed his brother. "I do not believe I have ever smelled such expensive perfume in such great quantities in all my life!" Nor do I have any wish to again.
 
"If only the daughter's scent did not clash so badly with the mother's!" Phillips waved his hand in front of his face, remembering.
 
Bennet returned. "As memorable as both those great ladies might be, their fragrance does not compare to what we are being forced to endure in this coach!"
 
"I do not envy you having to keep him under your roof." Phillips sniffed, then began walking after the coach. "His very scent alone is enough to trigger a fit of nerves in my dear sister!"
 
"Thank you again, Gardiner, for accompanying us back to Longbourn. I fear I shall need your assistance managing all that is likely to come from this unfortunate situation." Bennet removed his hat, raking his fingers through his hair. "Fanny's nerves shall indeed be vexed, I fear."
 
"I am glad to be of service to my sister and nieces." Gardiner nodded with a slight smile. "Besides, I am certain Madeline would be quite displeased if I left you alone to deal with a fool of that magnitude."
 
"It will be a pleasure to take that simpleton to court, Thomas," Phillips added. "I have dealt with many ignorant men in my day, but he is by far the worst. Truly, I cannot imagine how he ever made it through school enough for his japanning. I swear whatever bishop tested him must have been sleeping at the time! "
 
"You have been more than fair with the man," Gardiner assured. "Not one in a hundred would offer what you have. Nearly all would have gone directly to seek simple recovery. I believe you have acquitted yourself of any remorse you might have felt for the fate he might suffer for his losses in this situation. Moreover, he has the living in Kent. It is not as though he will be left in the hedgerows as my sister would say. If he cannot…" Heavy pounding footsteps and harsh panting cut off his words. "Mr. Collins."
 
Collins did not immediately answer, still trying to catch his breath. The portly man's round cheeks glowed red with exertion as sweat dripped down his face. "Beastly hot morning," he finally huffed.
 
"I find it quite comfortable," Bennet countered. "Actually, very typical for this time of year in this county. If you find it disagreeable, you do have the option to take another estate."
 
"My dear, Mr. Bennet," Collins moved to stand beside him, "surely you can see the wisdom in Lady Catherine's advice."
 
Behind them, Phillips and Gardiner rolled their eyes and shook their heads.
 
"'Mr. Collins,' she said, 'surely you cannot entertain the possibility of purchasing an estate as the nouveaux riche do. They are indeed the bane of good society. I will not hear of you joining their ranks. I will not have Rosings associated with such a person, most especially if he has within his grasp a way of acquiring an estate properly, through inheritance.' What a travesty it would be for a Lady of her station in life to be associated with…"
 
"I am quite aware of the grand lady's words," Mr. Bennet muttered through gritted teeth. "I was, after all, sitting there when she spoke them--several times. You are aware though of the great magnitude of loss you will suffer if you choose to heed her advice…"
 
"But was she not most condescending and gracious to offer us such an elegant solution?" Collins tried to interrupt. "Her great wisdom is without bounds, so cleverly has she contrived to meet all our considerations."
 
Bennet clenched his jaw, brows furrowing.
 
"You have five daughters, after all. 'Surely that is a sign from the Good Lord himself, is it not?' she said. Is it not clear then, that I should marry one of them and solve all our concerns so easily? 'I insist you chuse a gentlewoman, but your cousins are indeed that' she said. 'Let her be an active, useful sort of person, not brought up high, but able to make a small income go a good way. This is my advice. Find such a woman among your cousins, bring her to Hunsford, and I will visit her.'
 
"You do realize, Mr. Bennet, that the notice and kindness of Lady Catherine de Bourgh is one of the many advantages it is within my power to offer one of your fair daughters. Her notice…"
 
Bennet stopped in his tracks, turning to Collins with a severe expression the likes of which neither Phillips nor Gardiner had ever seen. "Mr. Collins, let me make it perfectly clear to you. I have not promised any of my daughters to you, nor should anything I say be construed to mean such a promise. I shall not force any of them to marry outside of their own choosing."
 
"Certainly, good sir. I would not have you force them. But surely they will be able to see the elegance of my circumstance and the benefit to their family and choose wisely…" Collins stammered in protest.
 
Undaunted, Bennet continued, " My two eldest are particularly unsuited to be your wife, the eldest being too beautiful and the second, too strong willed. I…" he shook with rage, his voice deepening to a growl. "I forbid you from even considering Jane or Lizzy in your matrimonial quest. Under no circumstances will I ever give either of them permission to be your wife. Of the younger girls, they will have to convince me that they truly like you and wish to be your wife before I would ever consider any settlement you might offer them. The attentions of Lady Catherine de Bourgh are nothing to me."
 
Collins stared open mouthed at the ranting man.
 
"The only reason I agreed to have you at Longbourn is so you can see for yourself that you would be far better off accepting…"
 
"The more than generous offer my brother has made you," Gardiner cut in quickly, catching up to the angry pair. "Surely you can see the generosity and Christian decency that my brother has extended toward you in spite of the very material injury he and his family has suffered under…"
 
"Mr. Gardiner," Collins turned to him with a condescending smile, "you and your fine brother are tradesmen. You cannot be expected to understand the concerns of your superiors in standing. I am sure that you are well meaning, but you seem insensible to the gracious wisdom and consideration of my most esteemed patroness…"
 
"But we are not insensible to the very great insults you have offered us." Phillips interrupted, pushing his way into the group. He stared severely at the parson. "You may expect that while you are in Meryton, I will begin the paperwork with the courts so that…"
 
"No!" Collins shouted angrily, loudly enough that the driver turned back to stare. "That is not acceptable. Have you forgotten how adamantly Lady Catherine decreed that she would not tolerate anyone associated with Rosings having his name drug through the courts in such a disgraceful, common fashion? No, that option will not do at all. I will not have it."
 
Phillips laughed gruffly, "You do not have the authority to make that decision, Mr. Collins; nor does your revered Lady Catherine. It is, in fact, in Mr. Bennet's hands alone to choose his course."
 
"But certainly you would not condemn me to my patroness' censure?" he gasped, horrified.
 
"Yet, you have so easily stood by and watched your father condemn my family to…" Bennet's voice rose uncharacteristically.
 
"To what? You are the one who has had the estate when my father deserved…"
 
"Deserved nothing! What has he ever done to…" Bennet screwed his eyes shut and lifted his hands. "No, that is enough. I will not have this conversation. It is pointless. I have no intention of allowing this entail to continue. I offered you the most generous…" I wish I had never even considered that. I could have just had him served with papers and been done with this foul business!
 
"Indeed you have, dear sir," Collins' attitude suddenly shifted to something alarmingly like groveling. "But you must realize that I can do nothing to jeopardize the favor I have come to enjoy from my patroness. Surely you see that…"
 
"I most certainly do not. It has always been my understanding that a living was given for life. Short of you declining the living, there is little she can do to remove you from your position." Bennet glanced at his brothers for support.
 
"How can you ignore the deference and respect that is due her rank?"
 
"I am resolved to act in a manner which will, in my own opinion, constitute the greatest benefit to my family, without reference to any person so wholly unconnected with me. Her rank is nothing in my mind. She deserves no special honor or reverence at the cost of my family's well being.''

"You refuse to obey the claims of duty, honour, and gratitude. You are determined to ruin me in the opinion of my patroness, making me the contempt of the world!" Collins exclaimed in horror.

"Neither duty, nor honour, nor gratitude," replied Bennet, "have any possible claim on me, in the present instance. You have violated every one of those principles in your selfish refusal."
 
"And this is your real opinion? This is your final resolve!" The parson's eyes bulged as he breathed heavily. Very well. I shall know how to act. Do not imagine, Mr. Bennet, that your ambition will ever be gratified. I came to try you. I hoped to find you reasonable; but, depend upon it, I will carry my point.
 

The carriage pulled into a coaching inn near dinner time. Rubbing his temples, Bennet said, "I shall inform the driver that our stop here will be of some duration. I have no wish to wolf down another meal today."
 
"But my dear, Mr. Bennet," Collins immediately protested, "will not such a stop jeopardize our arrival in Meryton today? If we press on…"
 
"No, no, I quite agree," Phillips cut him off. "In fact, I insist that we seek lodgings here for the night."
 
"You surely cannot be serious!" Collins dabbed at his face with his handkerchief. "Another day in this infernal…"
 
"I will be very happy to secure you transportation back to Kent in the morning, sir," Bennet retorted.
 
Collins swallowed uneasily. "Are the roads the rest of the way…"
 
"Quite likely to be as bad or worse than those we have already traversed." Phillips nodded at his brother. "The recent storms have spent their wrath upon them for sure. Perhaps it is the Good Lord's way…"
 
"You see that travel does not agree with you," Gardiner observed. "You realize that if you try to maintain both your living in Kent and Longbourn someday, you will be required to make this trip regularly."
 
Collins winced and swallowed hard. "Excuse me, gentlemen!" He sputtered and jumped from the still moving coach, hurrying off behind the inn.
 
"I still do not understand how you can possibly be related to that man!" Phillips muttered.
 
"He is a distant cousin, and not distant enough if you ask me." Bennet removed his hat to mop his brow. "I know Longbourn is expecting us today, but being in his company even this long has me spent. I am afraid I must sound a bit like my dear Fanny now, but my nerves!"
 
The brothers shared a rueful laugh.
 
"Do you think Fanny will be able to tolerate him staying with you? I know she is still quite sensitive…" Gardiner asked more seriously. She is barely easy with me staying there with them. I fear I cannot blame her though.
 
"I am honestly worried, Edward." Bennet replaced his hat. "Obviously, I have not spoken to her these last three weeks. But she was quite unwell when I left." He sighed heavily.
 
"Perhaps I might persuade him to stay with Mrs. Phillips and myself for a few days before he proceeds to Longbourn. That would give you time to prepare Fanny for company, or arrange for her to make a visit of her own."
 
"I say, David, that is a good idea. What say you to suggesting a trip to London for Fanny and one or two of the girls? Madeline would certainly love their company. It has been quite some time since your wife has stayed with us," Gardiner suggested hopefully. "I can send my man with them. I can certainly do without him that long."
 
Bennet's face brightened. "If Fanny is well enough to travel, that would be an ideal solution. She is fragile right now, and I do fear that that infernal fool will be more than she can tolerate." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Yes, I believe that would do very well. If you can keep him until I have Fanny removed from Longbourn, I would be deeply in your debt, David."
 
"Consider it done then." Phillips laughed to himself. "I will tell him that my wife must simply be the first in town to hear of the wonders of Rosings Park. I am sure he will feel compelled to stay and pontificate on his favorite topic!" It would be a relief to be of some material service to you after all that has happened.
 
They laughed loudly. Gardiner opened the door of the coach and they exited. Following brief words with the driver, they made their way into the inn. After they made arrangements for their lodgings, they sat in the parlor, waiting for their rooms to be readied.
 
"So, which of the girls will accompany Fanny, Thomas?" Gardiner asked, reaching for his cup of tea.
 
"I have already told the fool that Jane and Lizzy are off limits, so I think they may safely remain. Moreover, I believe I will need them to manage the house in Fanny's absence. Lizzy sent on a letter to me from Colonel Forster in which he intimated that Lydia might be wearing out her welcome with them. I do believe that she has found the life of an officer's wife to be something less than she expected it would be.
 
"Lydia does so lift Fanny's spirits. I believe I might send for her as soon as we return. They can go on together to London. Lydia favors her mother too much in looks and liveliness. I fear that might draw too much attention from my noxious cousin. I do not trust that man."
 
"I am glad to hear it, Thomas." Phillips set his tea cup softly on the table. "I did not like the look on his face when you informed him that you did not care for Lady Catherine's dictates. There was something in his eyes that I do not trust either."
 
"I saw it too," Bennet agreed softly, his eyes darting toward the door.
 
"Mr. Bennet!" Collins dropped heavily into a soft chair. "The inn keeper said that you had not arranged a room for me here. Surely he must have simply overlooked your instructions."
 
With a saccharine smile, Bennet shook his head. "Oh no, good cousin, he was quite correct. My brothers and I made our arrangements, but felt that you would prefer to make your own. I have no idea what accommodations might be acceptable, or even appropriate, for the parson of the right Lady Catherine de Bourgh. I know that you could not stay in rooms too low for your station lest you defame her ladyship, neither could you stay in rooms too high. I felt that you alone must chuse precisely what distinction of room would be proper for a gentleman such as yourself. I dare say she must have already given you painstaking instruction in the matter." Lifting his teacup, he quirked an eyebrow calmly.
 
"Why of course, you are indeed all that is thoughtful and courteous, Mr. Bennet. I could hardly have thought otherwise. I will go to the inn keeper now and explain to him my circumstances, so that I may identify exactly the accommodations I require. I am certain you left him a coin…"
 
"Oh, no, Mr. Collins. I would not dream of doing such a thing. I would not dare risk implying that the parson of Lady Catherine is so poor that he cannot afford his own lodgings! I could not risk the possibility of disgracing her so."
 
Collins stared openmouthed at him for a long moment. "Of course not. I had not considered the possibility. I am afraid this disagreeable carriage ride has left me quite dull indeed, that I might overlook such a matter. I am indeed fortunate to be traveling with such a considerate companion." Mopping his brow once again, he rose. "Excuse me, while I seek out the inn keep."
 
The brothers kept silent until he left the room, the door closing solidly behind him. Phillips was the first to laugh, quickly followed by the others.
 
"I dread introducing him to our curate, Mr. Pierce." Bennet exchanged a knowing glance with Phillips. "But I cannot imagine how such a thing is to be avoided."
 
"Indeed, I can hardly think of two men more dissimilar." Phillips nodded vigorously. "He is not one to suffer fools gladly, particularly when they come in the form of men of the cloth."
 
"That sounds like a curate Madeline and I once knew." Gardiner smiled to himself. "It would truly have been interesting to see how he would have reacted to our Mr. Collins."
 
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