Beginning, Part Two, Section V, Next Section

Chapter 21

Posted on December 27, 2009

On their return to the house, Elizabeth and Darcy were met by Warner who, when asked as to the whereabouts of the former's father, directed them to the library. He was careful to show no reaction to their returning together and watched them go with a slight smile, remembering Lord Casterton's comments of the day before and easily putting two and two together.

Reaching the door to the library, Elizabeth took Darcy's hand in hers as she used the other to softly knock, feeling unaccountably nervous all of a sudden. She heard her father bid them to enter and thanked Darcy with a smile when he opened the door and held it for her. Seeing her father rising to his feet, Elizabeth slowly entered and came forward, Darcy beside her.

"Well?" Lord Casterton asked, looking between the pair of them.

"I have been accepted, my lord," Darcy replied with understated happiness. Looking between father and daughter he smiled to himself and pressed a kiss to the back of Elizabeth's hand before releasing it. In a moment Elizabeth was with her father.

"Congratulations my dear," Lord Casterton murmured, pressing a kiss to his daughter's forehead. "I am very happy for you."

"Really?" Elizabeth whispered, seeing the sadness his eyes could not hide.

"Really," Lord Casterton assured her. "I know you love him and he deserves you. I could not have parted with you, my Lizzy, to any one less worthy."

"Thank you," Elizabeth replied, touched. They both had tears in their eyes and she turned to find Mr Darcy watching them with an understanding expression. "Forgive us, sir; I promise there will be no more tears for today! It is a time for celebration after all."

"Quite right, my dear," Lord Casterton replied before Darcy could, clearing his throat. "Let me shake your hand sir," he added, holding out his hand for Darcy to take. He smiled and clapped the younger man on the shoulder. "I could not ask for a finer son in law."

"Thank you my lord," Darcy replied with a smile, basking in the warmth of his lordship's approval and Elizabeth's happy expression as she observed them together.

"I think Michael will suffice now," Lord Casterton pointed out. "We shall be family soon."

"Please, do not think me ungrateful, my lord," Darcy replied with a bow of his head. "But such...familiarity would seem somehow disrespectful."

"Very well," Lord Casterton acceded with a twitch of his lips, thinking that his daughter's fiancée had not undergone a total transformation since they had first met him. He liked that Darcy was a man of decided opinions though, who strongly believed in what he thought to be right.

"Have the others arisen yet?" Elizabeth asked, eager to share her news.

"Oh yes," her father replied with a chuckle. He reached for the bell pull and waited for a footman to appear. "Please inform his grace that Elizabeth and Mr Darcy have returned."

"Yes, my lord," the servant bowed and left to carry out his errand as Elizabeth looked to her father for an explanation.

"Alex came to me after speaking to you and Lewis found us together; naturally he required an explanation and then he of course told Maria who then told Sophia. I believe Fred is the only one in the dark," Lord Casterton concluded with a chuckle. "Though not for much longer," he added, hearing the sound of running footsteps.

The three adults turned to see Fred burst into the room, loudly protesting, "Why didn't you wait for me Lizzy?"

Maria entered the room shortly after and was quick to scold her son, "Fredrick! Where are your manners? You know you do not speak to people like that! And you also know not to run in the house."

"Sorry mamma," Fred meekly replied, looking chastened.

Sharing an amused glance with her father, Elizabeth spoke to the young boy. "I apologise for not waiting for you this morning Fred, but I had promised to meet Mr Darcy and did not want to keep him."

Fred only then seemed to realise there was another person in the room, and a stranger to boot. Blushing, he shuffled over to his mother's side and mumbled, "Tis alright."

"Silly billy," Maria sighed, affectionately running a hand over his head before gently urging him forward. "Come and meet Mr Darcy. And you as well Sophia," Maria added, gesturing for her daughter to join her. "Mr Darcy, may I present our youngest, Fredrick, and our daughter, Sophia. My dears, this is Mr Darcy, Lord Casterton and Lizzy's friend."

"Lord Fredrick, Lady Sophia," Darcy intoned, bowing. He glanced at Elizabeth with a smile before saying, "I am very pleased to make your acquaintance, though I am simply Miss Casterton's "friend" no longer."

"You aren't?" Sophia asked, looking between the gentleman and her friend.

"No," Elizabeth replied, offering Darcy her hand and smiling when he took it. "You see, Mr Darcy has made me an offer of marriage and I have accepted him. So he is now my fiancé as well as my friend," she concluded, blushing prettily when Darcy kissed her hand.

The reaction from the Fraiser family was all that could be expected. Maria and Sophia were perhaps the most vocal in their congratulations, embracing Elizabeth and exclaiming over the prospect of a wedding. Lewis went directly to his friend and patted him on the shoulder in silent commiseration before shaking hands with Darcy, joined shortly after by Alex who extended his congratulations to the man Elizabeth had chosen. There was much talking and hand shaking and cheek kissing and Fred watched it all in quiet bemusement until Elizabeth approached him.

"Do you see now why I didn't wait for you?" She asked him quietly.

"Oh yes," Fred replied easily. "But shall you always walk with him now?"

"I suppose so, once we are married," Elizabeth replied seriously. "But until then I shall still need a companion. Would you mind?"

"Not at all," Fred assured her equally as seriously, fortunately missing how Elizabeth's lips twitched.

"Come, come, let us have a toast," Lewis proclaimed, a bottle of champagne having materialised in the library, courtesy of his attentive servants.

Everyone took a glass (even Sophia who looked very pleased to be included with the adults) and Lewis, after a silent deliberation with Lord Casterton, did the honours.

"To Elizabeth and Darcy. May I be the first to wish you great joy and happiness together, from this day and for all the days you have with one another."

As the others toasted their happiness, Darcy turned to Elizabeth and pressed a lingering kiss to the back of her hand; it was all he was permitted but his eyes spoke eloquently of his longing for more. He straightened and the couple shared a long look as Maria sighed and smiled at the romantic display, pleased when she felt her husband wind his arm about her waist and draw her to his side. Alex stood by with an expression of longing which fortunately went unnoticed by his parents and siblings and Lord Casterton, who was too busy trying to keep a hold on his composure to notice anything else.

Gently interrupting the moment, Maria looked between the newly betrothed couple and asked, "Have you thought at all about when you would like to be married?"

"Not yet," Elizabeth replied, looking up at Darcy who was looking at her father.

"I think it would be best to wait a few months," he confessed, having witnessed Lord Casterton's slight wince at the mention of a wedding date. "I should like Richard to stand up with me, and he will need time to recover," he added by way of explanation, looking down at Elizabeth who nodded and smiled sympathetically.

"Of course, that is understandable," Maria sympathised. "But before the end of the year?"

"I hope so," Elizabeth admitted, turning to Lord Casterton and asking, "What do you think father?"

"Fine," Lord Casterton croaked. He cleared his throat and managed a smile, "Before the end of the year sounds wonderful."

"Well, we have plenty of time to decide," Darcy pointed out, sensing Lord Casterton's distress.

"Very true," Lewis agreed easily, also attuned to his friend's state and admiring Darcy all the more for his perception. "But we must do something to celebrate! A dinner perhaps?" He proposed, looking at the others for approval. "Just us and your family Darcy, and perhaps Miss Bennet and her fiancé as well. He is a friend of yours, is he not?"

"He is," Darcy confirmed. "But I would be honoured to host you all at my townhouse your grace. It would be the perfect opportunity to introduce you to my sister and cousin."

"Capital!" Lewis proclaimed jovially. "When?"

"Uncle Lewis!" Elizabeth laughingly exclaimed. "Why such impatience? As you said, we have plenty of time. Mr Darcy's cousin is not yet fully recovered; we must wait until then before we impose our company upon him."

Lewis looked confused. "I had understood that your cousin was staying with his parents."

"He was," Darcy replied, "but decided to join my sister and me instead."

He would not reveal anymore than that at this time, not before speaking privately to Lord Casterton and was relieved when his grace did not pursue the matter.

"Well, naturally we shall wait for you to extend the invitation," he stated reasonably before cheerfully adding, "although before then I hope you will join us for Maria's birthday dinner on Tuesday."

"I would not wish to intrude...," Darcy began.

"Nonsense," Maria asserted, seconding her husband's invitation. "Elizabeth is as good as family to us and the two of you shall be married; you are more than welcome to join us. And as it is my birthday you shall simply have to oblige me," she added smilingly.

"Very well, your grace, I thank you," Darcy replied with a slight bow and a smile.

"Perhaps Georgiana could come too?" Elizabeth proposed. "I believe Sophia and she will get along very well indeed, and I should like to see her."

"Of course," Darcy replied as Lewis and Maria nodded and Sophia perked up at the prospect. Elizabeth though sensed his unease and laid her hand on his arm.

"Will...Mr Darcy?" She questioned softly.

"If both of us attended, Richard would be left alone," Darcy pointed out, uncertain as to whether he was willing to leave his cousin so unattended.

"Do you think he will be well enough to join us?" Elizabeth asked.

"I am not certain," Darcy sighed.

"Well, he is more than welcome too," Maria offered kindly. She gestured to those present. "It shall just be us and some close friends, no one he need feel uneasy with."

"Thank you, your grace, you are very kind," Darcy replied solemnly before assuring her. "I will speak to him of your invitation and see what he decides."

There was a brief silence before Lewis clapped his hands and said, "Well, I don't know about the rest of you but I am damned hungry!" He looked to Darcy. "Will you be joining us for breakfast?"

"As much as I would like to," Darcy replied, looking at Elizabeth as he confided, "I have a feeling Georgiana would not forgive me for making her wait any longer to find out whether or not she is to have a sister. You do not mind?"

"Not at all," Elizabeth assured him easily.

"Come, then, we shall see you out," Lord Casterton offered, breaking his silence and escorting the pair to the door. "I suppose we shall see you tomorrow Darcy?"

"I have some business to attend to in the morning but it should not take more than a few hours," Darcy replied.

"We shall expect you some time in the afternoon then. Might I request you leave some time for us to talk; we have some things to discuss," Lord Casterton requested as they shook hands.

"Of course," Darcy granted, planning in his mind what he would need to bring with him.

"Until tomorrow then," Lord Casterton agreed, nodding to Darcy and then taking a step away so that he and his daughter could say goodbye.

"I shall bring Georgie with me tomorrow; no doubt she will be very eager to see you," Darcy offered with a smile.

"And I her," Elizabeth agreed. She curtsied and then rose with a smile. "Goodbye my love."

"Goodbye," Darcy replied and with a final kiss to her hand he was gone.

After watching him disappear from view, Elizabeth turned to find her father waiting. She smiled brilliantly and he held out his hands for hers, holding fast as he assured her,

"I am very happy for you my child."

"Thank you," Elizabeth replied, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

"I take it that Colonel Fitzwilliam's relocation has something to do with his cousin's engagement to you?" He guessed, sighing as Elizabeth nodded. "His father did not approve?"

"He did not," Elizabeth admitted. "William believes he may come round eventually though," she added, trying to sound optimistic.

"Well, let us hope so," Lord Casterton replied. "But come, let us return to the others," he said, tucking her hand into his elbow and leading her back to the library and the waiting family.

"Oh, Elizabeth, I am so pleased!" Maria exclaimed as they re-entered the room. "He seems such a lovely man, and so very handsome!"

"Not that handsome," Lewis protested with a sniff, looking put out.

"Oh, you silly fool!" Maria laughingly chided him with an affectionate kiss to the cheek.

Mollified, Lewis congratulated Elizabeth. "You have done well for yourself Lizzy; he seems to have a good head on his shoulders and I cannot fault his taste."

"Thank you Uncle Lewis, I think," Elizabeth replied wryly as her father chuckled.

"Oh, this is so wonderful!" Maria exclaimed again in her excitement, her hands clasped to her bosom. "I am so glad that it is to be a long engagement so that we shall have plenty of time to shop for all your new things."

"This dress was new this summer!" Elizabeth protested, trying not to laugh as Alex chuckled to himself in the background.

"Oh, you know what I mean Lizzy," Maria chided her, undeterred. "And we simply must pull out all the stops when we have your new gown made for the ball so that you look your best for your first dance with you fiancé."

"You know about the ball?!" Alex choked out as the others exchanged shocked looks; with the exception of Lewis, who looked decidedly embarrassed.

"Oh, yes, Lewis is terribly bad at keeping secrets from me; he spilled the beans last night," Maria revealed with a wave of her hand.

"Father!" Alex protested. "After all the fuss you made over keeping it a secret."

"Oh, Alex dear, there's no harm done," Maria assured him. "It was a lovely gesture and I appreciate it very much; at least this way we have even more time to have our gowns made. Shall we go tomorrow?"

Elizabeth looked a little flustered by her grace's enthusiasm and so her father stepped in and pointed out, "Maria, Darcy is to call again tomorrow."

"Oh well, perhaps we may wait a while," Maria granted.

"I should like to see whether Georgiana plans to attend the ball, and Jane also," Elizabeth admitted. "It would be nice for them to accompany us."

"Of course, I forgot about your friends." Maria sighed and rolled her eyes. "Sorry dear, I am getting somewhat carried away, am I not?"

"Yes." Lewis deadpanned, earning himself a glare from his wife as all the others laughed.

***

Darcy rode home in a daze, though once his townhouse came into view he was filled with excitement and leapt down from Toby with great enthusiasm, surprising the groom who watched his master bound up the back steps with bewilderment. Entering the house, Darcy quickly made his way to the front hall and addressed his butler, asking after the whereabouts of his sister.

"I am here William," Georgiana called from the stairs, having heard her brother's return and hastened to meet him. "Well?" She asked, descending the last few steps.

The slow smile that dawned across her brother's face was all the answer she required and, with a distinctly feminine squeal, Georgiana ran to embrace him. Laughing as he span her around in a circle she breathlessly exclaimed,

"Oh, brother! I am so happy for you!"

"You shall like having Elizabeth as a sister then?" Darcy teased as he set her back down.

"I meant that I was happy for you!" Georgiana replied with a smack to his arm before laughing and admitting, "But yes, she shall be a wonderful sister. Oh, come, we must tell Richard," she suddenly proclaimed, clasping his hand and practically dragging Darcy up the stairs with her.

Upon entering Richard's chambers they were met by their cousin's laughter as he called out, "Come over here so that I may congratulate you!"

"How did you know?" Georgiana asked as the two siblings headed to where Richard was sat.

"I heard your reaction from here," Richard replied with a chuckle. He held out his hand for Darcy to shake and then patted him on the shoulder. "Congratulations Darcy, you will be a very happy man."

"I know," Darcy replied with a satisfied smile causing his cousin and sister to laugh.

"Well, come on then, tell us what happened," Richard demanded with good-natured impatience as Georgiana and Darcy took their seats.

"There is not much to tell," Darcy replied with a dreamy smile that totally belied his words. "We met in the park outside the house, I proposed and she accepted and then we return to the Fraiser's townhouse to share the good news with everyone. I am to return tomorrow to see her and to speak with her father."

"Oh, may I come with you?" Georgiana asked excitedly. "I can keep Elizabeth company whilst you speak with his lordship."

"Of course you may," Darcy granted easily, laughing when his acquiescence earned him another embrace.

"Thank you!" Georgiana gushed before suddenly jumping up and exclaiming, "Oh, I must go tell Mrs Annesley the good news!"

Darcy and Richard watched her hurry from the room with matching expressions of amusement before turning back to face one another.

"Did you speak to her about my father?" Richard asked after a moment.

"Yes," Darcy admitted.

"How did that go?"

Darcy sighed. "She did not seem wholly surprised by his disapproval but still required my reassurance."

"Hmm, which you no doubt were only too happy to give her," Richard predicted with a knowing look and a smile. Darcy remained stubbornly silent and Richard chuckled to himself before asking, "Have you thought any about a date?"

"Some time towards the end of the year," Darcy replied, surprising his cousin.

"That long?"

"Her father," Darcy stated by way of explanation.

Richard nodded understandingly. "It has been only the two of them for a long time," he mused. "No doubt it will be a hard transition."

"I know," Darcy agreed. "Which is why I am willing to wait for as long as she needs."

"You have the patience of a saint cousin," Richard remarked with a smile as Darcy wryly noted,

"Hmmm, something tells me I shall need reminding of that before long."

They were quiet for a moment until Darcy tentatively began, "Richard?"

"Yes?"

"Would you stand up with me?"

Richard was momentarily surprised and at first thought about refusing but then realised that he did not want to. "I would be honoured," he replied quietly. "But what about Bingley?" He added as an afterthought.

"He will understand," Darcy assured him easily.

"Then I shall happily do it," Richard agreed with a smile and a nod.

"Thank you," Darcy replied. Remembering his promise to her grace he told his cousin, "We have all been invited to dine with the Fraiser's and the Casterton's on Tuesday next; it is her grace's birthday and they are hosting a dinner with their close friends before the ball in a fortnight's time. They have kindly extended the invitation to all of us. Should you like to go?"

"Well, I wouldn't want to appear ungrateful," Richard tried to joke. "And knowing how hard my father has tried to get an invitation to one of their dinners, I could hardly turn it down!"

"Richard..." Darcy sighed, willing his cousin to be serious.

Abandoning his carefree air, Richard nevertheless assured his cousin, "I will be fine Darcy. I cannot hide away forever," he admitted, looking down at his arm before pointing out, "and if the Fraiser's are as nice as you say they are, I am sure their friends will all be perfectly amiable and not object too much to my presence."

"Elizabeth will be pleased to see you again," Darcy agreed and then confessed, "and I would like for you to meet his lordship."

"It is settled then." Richard replied with a nod.

Darcy accepted his cousin's decision and went on. "I also said that I would host a dinner here, in honour of our engagement."

"Of course, as you should," Richard granted. "Who were you thinking of inviting?"

"The three of us, Elizabeth and her father," Darcy reeled off, counting on his fingers. "The Fraiser's, Bingley and Miss Bennet, your parents, should they chose to attend, and perhaps Miss Bennet's aunt and uncle, whom I believe she is staying with whilst here in town."

Richard could not help himself; he laughed and exclaimed, "My parents, the Casterton's and the Fraiser's all in one room?? Now that is a party I wouldn't miss!"

"You do realise that watching so carefully for their arrival won't make them appear any quicker, don't you?"

Elizabeth smiled at Maria's teasing and was about to leave her position at the window and sit down before she noticed a carriage coming up the street. As she watched it came to a stop in front of the house and Mr Darcy stepped out; he helped his sister alight before moving aside, offering his arm as further support to his cousin who gingerly climbed out of the carriage with the aid of a cane.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam is with them," Elizabeth exclaimed with surprise. She excused herself from Maria and Sophia and went to meet their guests.

"Elizabeth!" Georgiana was the first to see her and hurried over to embrace her.

"Hello Georgiana," Elizabeth replied, laughing. "It is lovely to see you."

"It is lovely to see you too," Georgiana enthused. "And we are to be sisters! I am so happy."

"So I can see," Elizabeth noted fondly. She looked past her friend to the waiting gentlemen. "Good afternoon, Mr Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam."

"Just Mr Fitzwilliam now, Miss Casterton," Richard replied, just about managing to keep his voice steady as he leant heavily upon his cane.

"Of course," Elizabeth breathed. She went to him and laid her hand on his arm. "It is wonderful to see you again sir; I was happy to hear of your recovery. You are most welcome, though I hope you have not overtaxed yourself by journeying here today."

Richard smiled as he gallantly replied, "With such an inducement, how could I keep away?"

Elizabeth laughed lightly, "I see you have not lost your sense of humour! Well, come," she said, looking between the three, "let me introduce you to her grace and her daughter. Uncle Lewis and Alex are unfortunately out, but my father is in the study," she added for Darcy's benefit.

"Perhaps it is best if I talk with him first so that we may join the rest of you afterwards," Darcy suggested and Elizabeth happily agreed, asking a servant to show him the way.

"We shall see you shortly then," she said as Darcy nodded and finally dragged himself away.

"Besotted fool," Richard remarked, amused. "You are no better though I see," he noted with a smile at Elizabeth as she watched Darcy walk away.

"Oh, leave them alone Richard," Georgiana chastised him. "I think it is very romantic."

Elizabeth smiled and rolled her eyes and gestured for the pair to follow her. She led them to the drawing room where she had left Maria and Sophia, careful to regulate her pace so as to not tax Colonel Fitzwilliam too much. When they entered, just the three of them, Maria looked to Elizabeth with surprise,

"Has Mr Darcy not come?"

"He is with my father presently," Elizabeth replied.

"Ah, of course," Maria breathed. She smiled at the new arrivals and awaited the introductions.

Elizabeth deftly introduced everyone and Richard, having managed a passable bow, noted, "It is a good many years since we last were in company together your grace; I hope you are well?"

"We are all very well, thank you," Maria replied before adding, "And I am relieved to see you looking well also; we were quite distressed when we heard the news."

"I thank you for your concern, but as you say, I am well enough," Richard remarked, put at ease by her grace's welcoming manner.

"Have you met my daughter before now? I cannot recall." Maria asked as they were all seated, gesturing to Sophia who blushed at the attention.

"I do not believe I have had the pleasure," Richard replied before chuckling and noting, "though I do remember meeting a very young Lord Fredrick; he was somewhat enamoured with my red coat."

"Oh yes, I remember now," Maria happily replied, smiling at the memory. "I would not be surprised if he chooses the army for his profession."

"Well, despite the obvious," Richard remarked wryly, "I would still recommend it to any man. I shall certainly miss it," he admitted before falling quiet, a pensive expression on his face.

"Do you play, Lady Fraiser?" Georgiana asked the girl beside her, having realised they were both of similar ages.

"I do," Sophia replied. "But please, call me Sophia," she requested with greater courage. "Everyone else does."

"Very well, and you may call me Georgiana," Georgiana replied easily and the two fell into a discussion of their favourite pieces and composers.

"Well, they seem quite happy," Maria noted, pleased. "How old is Miss Darcy?" She quietly asked the gentleman across from her.

"She turned sixteen this summer," Richard replied, "as hard as that is for me to believe; I can still remember holding her as a newborn. It makes me feel old."

Elizabeth laughed. "Oh, certainly, you are a veritable antique, Colonel," she teased. "Next year or the year after, you'll be at your last prayers, with a shawl round your shoulders and your favourite hound dozing at your feet."

"And where will all you young people be?" Richard demanded with mock solemnity, his lips twitching with suppressed laughter.

Elizabeth arched her brow as she replied, "Why, in the nursery of course, playing with our dolls--as befits our tender years."

Richard gave a shout of laughter, vastly amused at being treated with such a total lack of respect by a country-bred girl over ten years his junior. He could see why Darcy had fallen in love with her; it would, he felt, be very easy to do.

"Where else would we be," Elizabeth teased, "if not in the nursery?"

"I have no idea," Richard replied; he was determined to match her point for point and so asked, "What else, besides dolls, do girls your age like?"

"We like not to be constantly reminded of our extreme youth," Elizabeth quipped with a meaningful look.

Richard's laughter again rang out and he regarded Elizabeth with frank admiration. "Lord, you have a quick wit. No doubt you'll keep my cousin on his toes."

Elizabeth smiled and Richard realised he had been remiss, "Congratulations, by the way. You'll be a wonderful addition to the family, and I am sure you will make Darcy a very happy man. He was positively giddy all day yesterday; no doubt that will be his state for some time to come."

"I am happy I make him happy," Elizabeth replied and Richard chuckled at her delicate wording.

"Am I very unrefined?" He asked, looking between the ladies. "Too long with the men I daresay."

"You are perfectly charming just as you are, Colonel," Maria assured him and he bowed his head in response to the compliment.

"Oh, Elizabeth, I forgot to tell you," Georgiana exclaimed suddenly, interrupting her conversation with Sophia. "My brother has decided to host a dinner for everyone and wondered whether Sunday evening would be a suitable time?"

Elizabeth looked to her grace who replied, "I know of no prior engagement for that day; Sunday sounds perfect."

Georgiana clapped her hands, "Wonderful! William tells me that Mr Bingley and Miss Bennet will both be in town by then and so hopefully will be available to attend. He also thought it would be nice to invite Miss Bennet's aunt and uncle though I cannot recall their names..."

"The Gardiners?" Elizabeth stated with surprise.

"Oh yes, that was it." Georgiana replied. "William thought Miss Bennet would feel more comfortable with her relations in attendance, and no doubt Mr Bingley would also be happy to see them included."

"That is very good of him," Elizabeth remarked, pleased, making a mental note to thank Darcy when she got the opportunity. "I like the Gardiner's very much, they are a lovely couple. Do you remember them, Maria?"

"Vaguely," Maria replied, thoughtful. "I have only met them briefly but I remember Mrs Gardiner seemed a very amiable, intelligent and elegant woman."

Elizabeth nodded her agreement as Richard endeavoured to cover his surprise at hearing a duchess describe the wife of a tradesman in such flattering terms. He knew that pigs would fly before he would hear such a thing in the home of his father.

"And your father and my husband have business dealings with Mr Gardiner; he is a very able businessman by all accounts," Maria added, further surprising her guest.

"I would like for Mrs Gardiner and Jane to join us when we go shopping," Elizabeth proposed, smiling at Georgiana as she added, "and you as well, of course. You did receive the invitation to the ball?"

"We did," Georgiana confirmed, her shoulders drooping. "Though I am not allowed to attend."

"I thought that might be the case," Elizabeth replied with understanding. "You will still join us dress shopping though, I hope?"

"I should like that very much," Georgiana replied before Richard chuckled and pointed out,

"Yes, and I am sure your brother will happily pay for all of the purchases you wish to make; a consolation prize, as it were."

"Did you hear that Georgiana?" Elizabeth teased. "You have been given carte blanche with your brother's money; now you absolutely must accompany us."

"Oh ho, is that how it shall be?!" Richard exclaimed laughingly. "Do I need to warn my cousin to mind his accounts lest he find them empty within a year?"

"Colonel!" Elizabeth cried, "I am shocked and appalled; attempting to colour me the spendthrift indeed!"

Sophia and Georgiana laughed at their silliness as Elizabeth and Richard regarded one another with matching smiles.

"I am quite sure my cousin will be perfectly safe in your capable hands," Richard offered by way of a truce. "And his bank balance can no doubt survive a few dresses."

"That is a relief, I admit," Elizabeth teased, "I am accustomed to luxury and twould be a shame to find myself in the hedgerows."

Richard choked back a laugh at the image of his cousin in such a situation and was relieved when the conversation moved to other things. Observing Elizabeth with admiration he knew that if Darcy were anyone else he would envy him his good fortune. As it was, he was quite happy for his cousin.

"Ah, Darcy, good afternoon," Lord Casterton greeted, rising from his position behind the desk.

"Good afternoon, my lord," Darcy replied as they shook hands. He glanced at the papers on the desk and Lord Casterton sighed,

"Excuse the mess; this is the first prolonged trip away from home that I have taken for many years and my steward is somewhat overwhelmed at being left alone. It is my fault for not training him better," he noted as he took his seat. "But since I was at home it made sense to me that I see to my own affairs."

"It can be difficult to strike a balance," Darcy agreed as he took his seat. "I had something of a battle with my steward during my father's final year; he was not entirely willing to hand over control to a man of such tender years as I was then."

"You proved him wrong though, yes?" Lord Casterton surmised with a smile.

"Eventually," Darcy admitted. "I learnt along the way though not to try to accomplish everything myself. Pemberley is too vast an estate for that."

"I do not doubt it," Lord Casterton replied before adding, "but I should say that leads us nicely on to what we need to speak about today. Needless to say I have not had much experience with regards to settlements, though I have made some preparations," he admitted with a smile.

"As have I," Darcy replied, presenting the papers he had brought with him.

"I must ask, before we begin, what...expectations...you have with regards to Elizabeth's dowry? Or rather, what have you heard about it?" Lord Casterton asked, his chin resting atop his steepled fingers.

"I have not," Darcy began but upon perceiving Lord Casterton's look admitted, "Thirty thousand pounds was the figure I heard discussed, not that it matters to me," he added firmly.

"You are so rich that you turn your nose up at such a sum?" Lord Casterton remarked lightly, his brows raised.

"That it would not matter to me were Elizabeth worth not a single pound is what I meant, my lord, as I think you know," Darcy replied sternly.

Lord Casterton chuckled and held up his hand. "Forgive me, I should not ridicule you. I do indeed know what you meant; the fact remains, however, that we must have a discussion about money and I believe it best that we are both completely frank with one another."

"I agree," Darcy replied.

"Very well," Lord Casterton sighed. "Thirty thousand pounds would not be an inaccurate assessment of Elizabeth's wealth, were we concerned only with her dowry," he revealed. "That sum was settled upon her at birth and will not change; what has changed, however, is the amount I am able to settle upon her in addition to those funds. We have spoken already of the entail of my estate; I am unchanged in my decision to give everything I can to Elizabeth now and, god willing, everything else to your son when I pass away."

Lord Casterton paused before sitting forward and asking, "Do you remember months ago when we spoke of investments and business ventures beyond those of the estate?"

"I do," Darcy replied, wondering where this was going.

"I have for many years invested capital in such schemes and have seen a number of successes; I do not tell you this to gloat, merely so that you may appreciate from whence my wealth has come. I also made the decision several years ago to dispense with a number of addition estates under my possession which had sat empty and unused for years. My townhouse I rented out and then sold, my estate in Ireland also, a hunting lodge in Scotland too; I no longer had need for any of them and, as they were not connected to the Willoughby estate, I was free to sell them."

Darcy, upon hearing this, was significantly surprised and Lord Casterton saw it.

"You wonder why I took such a step," he noted, explaining when Darcy nodded, "I daresay I would not have had relations between my brother and I been more cordial. As it is, however, I was worried that, should Elizabeth have remained unmarried at the time of my death, she would have been left at Robert's mercy. I wanted to be certain that she would be totally secure after I am gone and that meant accumulating as much monetary wealth as possible; women, after all, cannot inherit property and everything would have gone to Robert."

"Anyway," Lord Casterton continued with a sigh. "Now I come to the point. In addition to her dowry, I have made arrangements to settle another twenty thousand pounds on Elizabeth on the event of her marriage. As well as this, I have made a number of stipulations in my will pertaining to any remaining monies at the time of my death. If Elizabeth is childless at such a time, everything will go to her to be used as you both see fit, though I admit I should like for the money to be used to benefit any children you may have in the years following." Seeing Darcy nod, he went on. "If Elizabeth has had a son before I die, however, all monies will still go to her until the boy reaches his majority, at which time he will inherit the larger part of the bequest, with the rest of the money set aside for your other children. It is likely that the maintenance of two estates would be a drain on his resources and it is my hope that these extra funds be useful to him. Given my health it is difficult to know how long I have left, but if I am fortunate enough to live another five or six years, I anticipate accumulating a sum of between twenty and thirty thousand pounds before I die, depending on my success."

At the conclusion of Lord Casterton's speech, Darcy sat back, stunned. He had had no idea that Lord Casterton possessed such wealth! Fifty thousand pounds! His sister's dowry of thirty thousand paled in comparison, and that was only the beginning. Another twenty or thirty to come! It was all too incredible and Darcy was silent for a long while.

"I see I have surprised you," Lord Casterton remarked after a moment. "You are not the only one to whom Elizabeth is priceless," he pointed out quietly. "I would sell the clothes off my back, if that was what it took to keep her safe and secure."

"I do not know quite what to say," Darcy admitted, still taken back by these revelations. He glanced down at the papers in his hand which felt somehow...meaningless now.

"What troubles you?" Lord Casterton asked, seeing his frown.

"It is nothing," Darcy replied with a shake of his head. "Would you like to see this? It is the settlement papers I had prepared; they will most likely need revising in light of your disclosures."

Lord Casterton cocked his head to the side and regarded the younger man across from him, attempting to understand Darcy's feelings. Believing he knew what was at the heart of the problem he said,

"I hope I am not treading on your toes Darcy. As Elizabeth's husband you will still be responsible for her welfare and the welfare of your children; my money does not change that."

"You are correct, I know," Darcy sighed, "and yet I cannot help but feel that I......I have long been taught to think that my value as a potential husband was inextricably linked to my material wealth," he admitted with a wry smile. "It appears, however, that that will not be the case after all."

"You shall be a strange couple," Lord Casterton predicted with a smile. "Neither caring for the wealth of the other but both as rich as Croesus!"

Darcy smiled weakly and studied his hands. What was wrong with him, he wondered as he realised it wasn't the money that bothered him so much as the fact that his future wife was worth more than him. Damn his stupid pride which rendered him so pathetic. Shaking himself out of his strange mood he breathed deeply and handed Lord Casterton the papers.

"You have been very generous," Lord Casterton noted as he read through the sections pertaining to Elizabeth's allowance.

"Pemberley is a very large estate and my family has long been the most prominent in the area; those stipulations simply reflect those facts."

"Compared to Willoughby, how much larger is Pemberley?" Lord Casterton asked curiously.

"The house itself is about twice as large," Darcy confessed. "And I believe the Willoughby estate must be about two thirds the size of Pemberley, judging by what I have seen."

Lord Casterton nodded, "I am sure Elizabeth will manage quite well; she has long been running our household and the adjustment should not be too difficult for her."

"I have every faith in her abilities," Darcy replied surely.

"I am sure you do," Lord Casterton noted with a smile as he turned back to the papers. As he was reading he absently asked, "How long have you had these ready?"

"A few weeks," Darcy admitted, adding when Lord Casterton arched his brow, "There is no harm in being prepared."

"No, indeed," Lord Casterton remarked amusedly. "How organised you are."

Darcy huffed and allowed a smile to escape at Lord Casterton's teasing; he would really need to get used to it.

"Well, this all looks fine to me," Lord Casterton stated after a few more minutes. "I shall have my lawyer check it over but just as a formality, you understand."

"Of course," Darcy granted easily. "Is there anything you would like to alter?"

Lord Casterton shook his head, "You have been very thorough. I am more than satisfied. I should like to discuss the details with Elizabeth before we sign anything," he added, standing and going to the bell pull, "I shall call for her now and we can get it all out of the way before we join the others."

Darcy nodded and sat awaiting Elizabeth's arrival; when she came he bowed to her and then took her hand, bestowing a kiss to the back of it.

"Have my cousin and sister been keeping you entertained?" He asked as he led her to the seat beside his.

"More your cousin, to be honest, but Georgiana and Sophia seem to be getting along very well," Elizabeth replied as she seated herself. She looked between the two gentlemen and smiled. "Have you had a productive discussion?"

"We have," Lord Casterton confirmed. "I have acquainted Darcy with my intentions regarding your dowry and inheritance."

Elizabeth frowned slightly, "Well, rather you than I; you know I do not like to think or speak of your eventual passing."

"Yes, I know," Lord Casterton replied kindly. He indicated the papers before him. "Darcy brought the settlement with him; apparently he has had it ready for weeks."

"Oh really?" Elizabeth asked amusedly, brow arched as she turned to her fiancée. "How very presumptuous of you sir."

"Hopeful, Elizabeth, hopeful," Darcy reminded her quietly and she smiled tenderly before turning back to her father.

"Does everything satisfy you papa?"

"It does," Lord Casterton assured her; he was about to explain some of the details but was prevented from doing so by Elizabeth saying,

"Well, as long as you are happy I am sure I shall be. I trust you both to make the arrangements," she said, looking between the two of them. "And as long as our children are provided for, I am content."

"You do not wish to know the details?" Darcy asked, wanting her to be sure.

"In time, perhaps," Elizabeth granted, "but for now all I care about is that we are to be married."

"Very well," Lord Casterton agreed, setting aside the documents. "I suggest, then, that we join the others."

As Darcy escorted her to the parlour, Elizabeth gave his forearm an affectionate squeeze as she said, "Georgiana told me of your plans to invite the Gardiner's to dinner; it is a lovely thought."

"I had hoped it would please you," Darcy admitted shyly, pleased when Elizabeth again pressed his arm.

"It does, thank you," Elizabeth replied. "I am sure you will like them very much."

I certainly hope so, Darcy thought inwardly, not wishing to have their engagement dinner spoiled in anyway. He would endeavour to meet them with an open-mind, free of prejudice, as Elizabeth would expect of him. "I am sure I shall," he assured his fiancée quietly.

"Is something bothering you Darcy?"

Richard studied his preoccupied cousin with a slight frown. They had enjoyed a very pleasant afternoon at the Fraiser's townhouse in the company of Elizabeth and her friends and father (whom, incidentally, Richard had liked immensely). The duke and marquess had returned from their business and joined them, providing Richard the chance to have a look at the younger man whom Darcy had worried was his rival for Elizabeth's affections. It was obvious to Richard that his lordship did have feelings of a familiar nature for Darcy's betrothed, but it was equally obvious that Darcy had nothing to worry about; Elizabeth had eyes for no one but him. Indeed, Richard could not remember a time when he had seen Darcy at such ease in company and knew that it was all due to his lovely fiancée; since their return home, however, Darcy had seen introspective and preoccupied.

Looking up from his study of his glass, Darcy regarded his cousin absently, "What was that?"

"I asked whether something is bothering you," Richard reiterated. "You seem troubled."

"Not troubled, exactly," Darcy admitted with a sigh. "Adrift I think would be a better description of how I feel."

"Why is that?" Richard asked, concerned.

"Lord Casterton told me something today that has greatly surprised me," Darcy confessed, confiding in Richard all the details he had learnt that day.

Sitting back in his chair, Richard looked at his cousin with amazement, "Such a sum! And no-one has the slightest idea; remarkable."

"Can you imagine if it were common knowledge?" Darcy asked, his mouth twisted with distaste at the thought. "Hertfordshire would have been invaded by all those with a good name but empty pockets, looking to trade. Thank god Lord Casterton is so different from other men! To think of Elizabeth..."

"Do not think it Darcy!" Richard cautioned him before pointing out, "It is of little consequence now; she is to marry you, a man as far from being a fortune hunter as possible."

Seeing that his jest did not have the desired effect Richard regarded his cousin seriously. "There is more to it than this, something else troubles you. What is it?"

"You will think me a fool," Darcy sighed, reluctant to admit the truth and yet needing to share his feelings.

"I already do so there will be no harm done," Richard quipped but Darcy could tell that beneath his teasing Richard was serious in his concern.

"I do not know how I feel about accepting such a sum of money from her," Darcy admitted finally. "It...I feel somehow, less. I am supposed to provide for my wife."

"Darcy," Richard sighed, rolling his eyes. "You are exaggerating. You are not like those men you described, marrying a rich woman because you have no money of your own; you are marrying the woman you love, who just so happens to be very rich. There is a big difference."

"I know, I know!" Darcy replied agitatedly. "I am being such an arse, I know I am; and yet, I cannot shake this feeling. And what if word of this gets out?" He pointed out, raising another worry. "Everyone will think that I am marrying her for her fifty thousand and nothing more; such a belief is offensive to me and to her but that is surely what people will think."

"There is no reason for this to become public knowledge; we are all capable of discretion," Richard reminded him calmly. He studied his confused cousin with sympathy. "I do understand your feelings you know. For years I have known that I needed to find myself a wife with a large fortune and have had to try and reconcile myself to the knowledge that I would be dependent on her, unable to support our family myself. And despite the reality of my situation, the thought was always unpalatable to me," he admitted before grinning suddenly and proclaiming, "Do you know what the problem is though? Male pride! It constantly causes trouble and makes fools of us all."

"Yes, I daresay it does," Darcy replied with a chuckle. In much better humour he held out his glass for a toast. "To damn male pride."

"A pain in the backside," Richard rejoined, touching glasses with Darcy before downing his remaining brandy in one gulp. "And now, I think I shall retire. It has been a long day."

Darcy helped assist Richard to his feet and watched him slowly walk from the room, a slight frown on his face. Richard was progressing every day but it was slow going; knowing his cousin's active and impatient nature, Darcy hoped Richard could keep his spirits up for as long as it took him to recover properly.

Resuming his seat Darcy stared into the fire, his mind somewhat predictably going to Elizabeth. He had woken that morning with a smile on his face, despite not sleeping for more than a few hours because of his happiness at finally being engaged to Elizabeth, and there had been a lightness in his step all day which he doubted anyone else had noticed but which he had felt. He had never been overly demonstrative with his feelings and was quite happy with the pervading sense of contentment and joy he felt in his heart.

With a sigh he laid his head against the back of his chair, closing his eyes and picturing Elizabeth in his mind. He wondered whether she was dreaming of him and looked forward to the day when their dreams would become reality.

Chapter 22

Posted on January 17, 2010

The next day Elizabeth kept her promise to Fred and took him for a walk in the park after breakfast. She was both excited and nervous about the coming day, looking forward to a visit from William in the afternoon but somewhat apprehensive about what was to come beforehand. Maria was expecting several calls upon her throughout the day and it had been strongly suggested that Elizabeth join her to receive the visitors. Amongst them would be friends of the Fraiser's she had met in the past and was not unhappy to meet again, but Elizabeth knew that for the most part the ladies would be of an entirely different breed. As Alex had succinctly put it, they would be wolves in sheep's clothing. The return of the duke and duchess after such a long period of time was a very notable event and all of the society matrons would call upon Maria over the next few days; women who could, with a single word, decide how Elizabeth would be received by the rest of the flock. She was therefore somewhat nervous.

Sitting on the park bench she and Darcy had occupied the day before, Elizabeth went over the advice Maria had given her yesterday regarding how she ought to behave and what she ought to say. A tiny voice in the back of her mind told her that she did not require such direction, should not be the one to regulate her behaviour when she had done nothing wrong, but Elizabeth stubbornly ignored it and focused on what was expected of her. Be welcoming and sincere. Answer their questions with grace and composure, even if some of what they ask is intrusive. Try not to appear too forward or impertinent. And do not, under any circumstances, react if they mention your father.

In a word, Elizabeth thought was a sigh, try not to be myself or too much like my mother.

"Fred," she called tiredly, suddenly noticing what her companion was up to, "leave the poor duck alone!"

"Ducks are meant to be chased, you know," said a very familiar voice behind her and Elizabeth turned with a delighted smile on her face.

"William!" She greeted him, coming to her feet; they came together and Darcy stroked her cheek before taking her hands. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to visit my aunt and uncle and spotted you both; I couldn't resist speaking to you," he admitted as Fred ran over and joined them.

"Good morning Mr Darcy!" The young boy greeted him cheerily, his shyness of yesterday long forgotten. He turned to Elizabeth and exclaimed, "Lizzy, there is an absolutely enormous frog over by the pond! You simply have to see it."

With an amused glance at his betrothed, Darcy tucked Elizabeth's hand into his elbow, "Enormous you say? Then lead on, my lord, lead on."

"I'm just Fredrick, not my lord," the young boy replied before turning and running back to the pond.

Following at a more sedate pace, Darcy enquired, "Are you well today, my love?"

"I am," Elizabeth assured him. "And you?"

"I have no complaints," Darcy replied. He tilted his head to better see her face as he quietly prodded, "Are you sure everything is well with you? You do not look happy."

"Don't I?" Elizabeth replied, absently. "I am a little preoccupied I suppose," she admitted, looking down.

"About what?" Darcy asked; when she did not answer him he halted their progress and turned her in his direction, "Elizabeth?"

"Maria is expecting callers today," she admitted finally to his chest, her fingers toying with one of the buttons of his coat. "I am to sit with her and receive them."

"And this does not please you?" Darcy asked, stroking the smooth skin of her wrist with his thumb.

"I will be happy to meet Lewis and Maria's friends again," Elizabeth replied before confessing in a small voice, "but I fear the rest of those that will come."

"Fear?" Darcy repeated with a frown. "What have you to fear?" No answer. "Surely you do not anticipate their mistreating you in the presence of her grace?"

"Not in any overt way; I doubt that they will be so bold. But Maria has already made it clear that she expects some veiled comments from them," Elizabeth confessed in a pessimistic tone. "Indeed, I do not blame her. It is inevitable."

"And what does she mean to do about these veiled comments?" Darcy asked, sure that they would not go by unpunished.

"Do?" Elizabeth repeated; she briefly looked up at him and then resumed her study of his waistcoat. "Nothing," she replied with a heavy sigh. "I am not, under any circumstances, to react to anything anyone says about my father; those are my instructions."

"I see," Darcy breathed, realising that this was the source of his beloved's melancholy. "You fear their visits because of what they may say, but also because of what you may say in return."

Elizabeth was impressed by his easy grasp of her predicament and rested her forehead against his chest. "Yes, precisely."

"And you are unhappy because you have been asked to pretend to be something you are not," Darcy breathed as he wrapped his arms about her and held her close.

Elizabeth nodded silently. "Am I foolish to feel it so? I know that Maria means well, she is simply anxious to see me accepted, but if I go along with such pretence...it will not be me they are accepting, will it?"

"No," Darcy agreed. "And though I too understand her grace's motives, you know my feelings on the subject of your worth. Just be yourself, my love, and let them accept you as you are or not at all."

Elizabeth smiled and tilted her head back. "I wish I could have you with me," she confessed, "little credit such a desire is to me as an independent woman."

"I believe," Darcy mused, his eyes caressing her face before settling on her lips. "That we all need a little help from time to time, and that there is no harm in asking for it."

"Maria would not allow it," Elizabeth breathed.

She waited as Darcy slowly lowered his head, obviously intent on kissing her, but they were interrupted by a splash and laugh from the direction of the pond and Elizabeth quickly looked over to ascertain that Fred had not fallen in. He had not, but he was looking over at them expectantly, obvious waiting for them to join him. She moved to do so but was forestalled by Darcy.

"I may not be able to join you in person, but I can offer you this as a substitution," Darcy suggested, reaching into his coat pocket and withdrawing a folded newspaper clipping. "Poor though it may be."

Elizabeth took the offering and carefully unfolded it; Darcy watched her closely, smiling at the myriad of expressions which played across her face as she did so.

"When did you..?" Elizabeth breathed, her mind still trying to accept the fact that the clipping she held was of the announcement of her engagement to William, printed in the Times.

"I sent it off the day you accepted me," Darcy revealed, "with your father's permission, of course. It was in today's paper."

Elizabeth smiled and raised her teary eyes up to meet his. "You kept it?"

"I did," Darcy murmured, wiping a stray tear from her cheek. "I do not anticipate a pleasant interview with my uncle and thought to keep this with me; I can see, though, that you have more need of it than I."

"Thank you," Elizabeth replied, holding the clipping as though it were the most valuable thing in the world. "I shall keep it with me; even if those women are determined not to like me, this shall remind me that you at least do."

"I like you very much, as you well know," Darcy retorted with a smile and a kiss.

They jumped apart at a shout from Fredrick, flushed and looking guilty as the young boy hurried over to them.

"You're not allowed to do that!" Fred proclaimed, hands on hips as he looked accusingly between the two of them. "Alex told me to tell you off if I saw you and to tell Lord Casterton."

Sharing a slightly alarmed look with Darcy, Elizabeth crouched down and suggested, "I'll tell you what, Fred; if you agree not to tell my father about this I'll help you catch that frog."

Fred looked intrigued by the prospect but remained unconvinced; he had promised his brother, after all.

"I'll even help you get it into the house," Elizabeth went on, inwardly smiling at the boys look of delight.

"Really? I can keep it?" Fred asked excitedly.

Elizabeth nodded, resigned to her fate. "Of course. But only if you promise."

"I promise," Fred replied hurriedly; he looked up at Darcy and sternly told him. "But next time I'm telling, alright?"

"Of course, I understand perfectly," Darcy replied formally, the effect somewhat spoiled by his twitching lips; it was not his fault though, how was he supposed to keep a straight face when he could see Elizabeth shaking with silent laughter?

"Come on Lizzy," Fred said, taking her by the hand and dragging her to the pond.

"We shall see you later William," Elizabeth called back over her shoulder.

"Have fun," Darcy replied, chuckling. He watched them for a moment more before carrying on his way, pleased to have been given the chance to see Elizabeth.

His mood sobered when he presented himself at his uncle's house, asking for an audience with the earl. Before the butler could take Darcy's request to his master however Lady Fitzwilliam appeared and asked her nephew to join her in the morning room instead.

"My husband has yet to arise; we have some time to ourselves," she told him once they were both seated and alone. "I expect you have come about this," she added, gesturing to the paper on the table beside her.

"I had hoped to share the news with you myself," Darcy replied, "rather than simply leave you to read about it in the paper; I should have come earlier," he added apologetically.

Lady Fitzwilliam made no reply to that and asked instead, "How is my son?"

"He is very well," Darcy assured her. "He is able to walk now with relative ease and was able to accompany Georgiana and me on our visit to the Fraisers and the Castertons."

"You were across the street?" Lady Fitzwilliam repeated, sounding pained.

Darcy nodded before assuring her, "He would welcome a visit from you, aunt, as would Georgiana and I; my quarrel is not with you."

"No," Lady Fitzwilliam agreed, "But it is with my husband; and whilst you may have disregarded the bonds of family, Fitzwilliam, I shall not do so."

"It was not a decision I made lightly, aunt," Darcy responded tightly. "But I know your husband as surely as you do; I had long anticipated his reaction and have had equally as long to consider my response. He left me with no choice."

"But to cut all ties with us, Fitzwilliam! Do you not think that too extreme?" His aunt implored him, much to his surprise.

"He is the one who insisted we cut ties," Darcy replied, "It was he who issued the ultimatum, my betrothed or this family. You are still welcome, aunt, both of you."

"But only if we accept this...girl you have chosen to marry," Lady Fitzwilliam surmised.

"Yes," Darcy sighed, defeated.

"I thought as much," Lady Fitzwilliam thoughtfully replied, inwardly fuming at her husband's deception. She should have known that it was he and not their nephew who had insisted upon the separation.

Darcy and his aunt sat and studied one another in silence, both thoughtful, neither willing to give way but both wishing for all discord to be at an end.

"What is she like?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked eventually, picking up the paper and looking again at the announcement. "Your betrothed; Miss Elizabeth Casterton."

"Wonderful," Darcy surprised his aunt by replying quietly, smiling almost to himself. "I wish you could meet her aunt, to see what I see."

"And is she beautiful?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked curiously. She knew Fitzwilliam was not a man likely to succumb to a pretty face alone, but he was still a man after all.

"Very much so," Darcy replied proudly before admitting, "Not at first, perhaps, but with time you learn to appreciate her beauty. Her eyes are her most striking feature, a deep brown and sparkling with life."

"You sound quite enamoured, nephew," Lady Fitzwilliam remarked with an amused smile.

"I love her," Darcy stated resolutely before softening and confessing, "I never imagined I would ever feel like this."

"You are fortunate," Lady Fitzwilliam replied sagely, wondering that she had not noticed before how changed he was. The man sitting across from her bore very little resemblance to the sober and stern nephew she remembered. "And different. Happy, certainly, but there is something else too, a lightness about you."

"I feel it," Darcy replied intently; his feelings were too fresh, too new to be articulated, not that he would have shared such private sensations even had he been able to find the words.

"And her father, Lord Casterton, what is he like?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked curiously. "Nothing to his daughter I suppose?"

"Why do you say that?" Darcy asked, tilting his head and regarding his aunt expectantly.

"Well, his wife..."

"You think him a fool because he married her," Darcy surmised but Lady Fitzwilliam shook her head.

"Not at all; most of the gentleman I know could be called fools, if they were judged on their choice of wife." Darcy smiled at her observation before she went on. "No, I doubt his character because of the way he allowed his wife to behave."

"Not because of her behaviour then?" Darcy asked with a tiny flicker of hope. This was more than he had expected, knowing his uncle's feelings about the matter.

Lady Fitzwilliam looked at her nephew knowingly, "You like him as well."

"I readily confess that I do," Darcy replied honestly.

"That will make it more difficult for you, you know," Lady Fitzwilliam pointed out, adding cynically, "Acceptance could have been gained had you been able to cut all ties with her family and its deplorable history. It would not have been hard to portray your betrothed in a favourable light, once she was away from her father; a diamond in the rough, one could have said."

"You think that because you do not know them," Darcy replied steadily, years of practice enabling him to mask his anger.

Lady Fitzwilliam unexpectedly smiled at his reply. "You refuse to rise to the bait, nephew; well done," she complimented him before thoughtfully asking, "Why, though, I wonder, were you not able to do so when my husband antagonised you?"

Darcy smiled ruefully at her observation before admitting, "I admit I was in something of a fervour that day. I had just seen Elizabeth after months of separation and she had all but assured me of her acceptance after almost a year of loving her. I was in no mood to hear his objections."

"A year, you say? This was no hasty courtship then, as I had feared," Lady Fitzwilliam replied, sounding relieved.

"Surely you know me better than that?" Darcy pointed out, inwardly uncomfortable with the expectant way his aunt was looking at him. He was an intensely private man and had always been so; sharing the details of his relationship with Elizabeth was not a pleasant thought.

"I need you to explain everything to me Fitzwilliam," his aunt softly entreated him. "So that I may understand; I am wary of making false judgements, but that will likely be the result if I am left to continue on in ignorance."

Realising that he had to reward his aunt for her willingness to keep an open mind, Darcy reluctantly shared with her the entirety of his relationship with Elizabeth and her father, beginning at the Meryton Assembly and ending with his proposal to her in the park. And though he was loathe to do so, he also told her about Elizabeth's dowry.

"Well, that is quite a tale," Lady Fitzwilliam breathed, pleased with her greater understanding of the situation. "Do I have your permission to enlighten my husband as to some of the more pertinent particulars?"

"You do," Darcy granted with little enthusiasm.

"The truth of your betrothed's financial situation will no doubt assuage some of his fears," Lady Fitzwilliam pointed out, "He does not have to worry about your having been caught by a fortune hunter now, after all."

"No, I suppose not," Darcy agreed, somewhat troubled and cautiously reminding his aunt, "But the truth of the matter should be kept within the family, though, shouldn't it?"

"Of course," Lady Fitzwilliam replied and then further assured him, "I will see to it that your uncle does not attempt to use her money as a justification for the match; it would reflect well on no-one."

"Thank you," Darcy replied with a slight sigh of relief. He suddenly remembered the planned dinner and extended an invitation to his aunt and uncle.

"I shall see what we can do," Lady Fitzwilliam replied honestly. She softened considerably as she asked, "I suppose Richard will be in attendance?"

"He will," Darcy replied quietly.

Lady Fitzwilliam nodded silently, lost in thought. Darcy took this as his cue to leave and rose. This prompted his aunt to ask,

"Are you going across to visit with Miss Casterton?"

"I have seen her already this morning, in the park," Darcy revealed. "But I mean to call this afternoon, after I have attended to some business and seen Bingley. He has returned from Hertfordshire and I mean to congratulate him upon his engagement."

"And share with him the news of your own, no doubt," Lady Fitzwilliam replied with a smile. She held out her hand to her nephew and as he bent to press a kiss to the back of it quietly implored,

"Do give my love to my son."

"I shall," Darcy promised. "You are welcome to..." he began, stopping when his aunt shook her head.

"Perhaps in a few days, when I have calmed his father down. Until then I shall have to entrust him to your care."

"I shall look after him, aunt, you have my word," Darcy replied resolutely.

"Oh, I know that," Lady Fitzwilliam assured him. She stepped forward and pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Now, you had best be on your way."

Darcy nodded and turned to leave; he stopped and turned in the doorway when his aunt quietly called to him.

"Congratulations, Fitzwilliam," Lady Fitzwilliam told him with a genuine smile. "I am happy for you."

Darcy smiled and bowed deeply in thanks before finally departing.

On her return to the house, Elizabeth joined Maria and sat down, awaiting the first of many visitors. She steeled herself for an uncomfortable encounter, her fingers tight around the clipping William had given her within the pocket of her dress, and was greatly relieved when the first ladies to arrive were good friends of the Fraiser family, as well as her father; Lady Anderson, the Duchess of Stamford and her niece, Miss Rebecca Stone. She waited patiently whilst Maria greeted her good friend, smiling when the elder lady turned her eyes upon her and blinked with surprised recognition.

"Is that...?" Lady Anderson breathed. "Lizzy Casterton? Bless me, it is! My darling girl, how are you?"

"I am very well, your grace, thank you," Elizabeth replied, curtseying.

"Oh, my dear, the last time I saw you you were all curls and freckles," Lady Anderson noted with a happy laugh, "but now look at you, quite the young lady. It is wonderful to see you again, and so grown up!"

"Thank you, your grace, it is lovely to see you as well," Elizabeth responded sincerely.

"And surely you remember my niece, Becky?" Lady Anderson asked, indicating the young lady beside her who was regarding Elizabeth with a smile.

"Of course I do," Elizabeth replied, "though it has been many years since we last met. I hope you are well, Miss Stone."

"I am very well, as I hope are you," Rebecca replied kindly as Elizabeth studied her and smiled inwardly at how pretty her old friend had become.

As the ladies all sat down, talk naturally turned to the past and fond recollections of times spent together. Lady Anderson asked after Lord Casterton and, though concerned by the report of his prior ill health, was relieved to hear he was faring better and looked forward to resuming their acquaintance on Tuesday. Lizzy and Becky spoke between themselves for some time and Elizabeth discovered that her friend was due to be married in a month's time. After congratulations were given, conversation turned to Elizabeth's own engagement.

"Are you acquainted with Mr Darcy at all?" Elizabeth asked Lady Anderson optimistically.

"No, not personally; we have moved in different circles, though I do know his aunt and uncle. From what I have heard though," Lady Anderson went on kindly, "he seems a fine match for you my dear."

"We are very pleased for Elizabeth," Maria noted fondly, "her betrothed and some of his relatives will be joining us for dinner on Tuesday."

"Oh, how wonderful," Lady Anderson enthused. "I shall be able to see for myself if he is as handsome as I have been told."

As Elizabeth blushed and smiled shyly, Maria and Lady Anderson exchanged knowingly looks before introducing a new subject.

Following Lady Anderson and Miss Stone's visit several more ladies came to call, two particular friends of Maria whom Elizabeth had also met before and some ladies to whom she had never been introduced. Maria's friends greeted her kindly and were perfectly easy in her company, and though some of the other ladies were a bit quiet, there was no overt hostility. Elizabeth allowed herself to be lulled into a false sense of security, leaving her quite unprepared for the first visit after lunch.

Lady Townsende, the Duchess of Ancaster and her daughter, Lady Emilia Townsende arrived and it was apparent even before they entered the room that there would be little pleasure to be had in the visit when Maria leaned over to Elizabeth and whispered that Lady Emilia had been hoping to receive Mr Darcy's addresses the last two seasons.

"Lady Fraiser, how lovely to see you," Lady Townsende intoned stiffly once all the ladies had curtseyed to one another. "How are you?" She asked insincerely.

"I am very well, Lady Townsende, thank you," Maria replied with unfailing politeness but little warmth as she similarly enquired after the health of her visitor.

"Oh, well enough," Lady Townsende replied dismissively. "But, who is this lady?" She asked, looking critically at Elizabeth who had been busy looking at Lady Emilia, wondering how she managed to constantly keep her nose stuck so high in the air without getting a cricked neck. "She looks terribly familiar."

"This is my husband's goddaughter and my very dear friend, Miss Elizabeth Casterton," Maria replied proudly, smiling at Elizabeth.

"Casterton?" Lady Townsende repeated, sharing a look with her daughter. "Daughter of Lord and Lady Casterton?"

"The very same," Maria evenly retorted.

"I see," Lady Townsende replied, her tone and look clearly expressing how she felt about Elizabeth.

"It is to you whom Mr Darcy has become engaged," Lady Emilia piped up, sounding simultaneously disdainful and reluctantly curious.

"Yes," Elizabeth asserted with fained confidence, trying to ignore the way the ladies were looking at her like she was something horrible they'd trodden in.

Lady Townsende rose abruptly, cutting off whatever reply her daughter would have made.

"I have just remembered an urgent errand," she stated stiffly as Maria and Elizabeth rose also.

"You are leaving then?" Maria asked lightly. At Lady Townsende's nod she sarcastically noted, "What a pity. Good day then," she added with a smile.

Elizabeth dropped a hasty curtsey to hide her smile at the Townsende's expense. The two ladies swept from the room with a dismissive flick of their skirts and the door was barely closed behind them before Maria exclaimed,

"Oh, infuriating woman! Honestly, why must I put up with them?" She sighed before turning to a still smiling Elizabeth and saying, "Pay them no heed my dear- Lady Emilia is jealous and Lady Townsende is a snob. She barely condescends to act courteously towards me so it is no surprise she could not bring herself to be civil to you."

"What could she possibly have against you?" Elizabeth asked with surprise.

"The colour of my skin, my dear," Maria replied simply. "In her view my husband should have found himself another English rose to marry, not some olive skinned heathen from the continent. And there was also my lack of wealth; I married too far above my station for her liking, silly woman," Maria concluded dismissively, before calling for some more tea.

"At least now we have a few moments respite before the next callers arrive," she pointed out conspiratorially and Elizabeth smiled, telling herself to emulate Maria's cool collected demeanour in the face of unjust condemnation.

Unfortunately, the next visitor made it very difficult for her to follow through on that decision. Mrs Thornton was one of the most influential ladies in town (if not the most influential) and her approval was sought by all. With a feeling of foreboding, Elizabeth awaited the introduction and was not disappointed. When Mrs Thornton was shown in it was with a decidedly calculating air that she studied Elizabeth, who was quite unsettled, though under any other circumstances she probably would have laughed off such an obvious attempt to intimidate her.

Maria greeted her guest who returned the gesture before turning to her prey and noting, "And this must be Miss Casterton. It is obvious really; you look so much like your mother. And town is already alive with talk of you even though you've only just arrived; the Casterton's have always been good at drawing attention to themselves, though."

Elizabeth, who had yet to say anything, stood stunned, stinging from the numerous slights which her mind was struggling to keep up with.

"Congratulations on your engagement, by the way," Mrs Thornton added once she had taken her seat. "It is strange, Mr Darcy has never shown any interest in marriage before now, but obviously you have captured his attention. How ever did you become acquainted with him? Not here in town, surely?"

Elizabeth realised Mrs Thornton was obviously expecting an answer and managed to reply, "No. We met whilst he was staying with his friend, Mr Bingley, near my home."

"And you hail from where?" Mrs Thornton asked.

"Hertfordshire," Elizabeth replied bluntly, her surprise suddenly giving way to indignation.

Ignoring her tone, Mrs Thornton continued on her gossip-finding mission. "And have you known each other long?"

"Almost a year," Elizabeth stated. She was about to object to any more questions but was forestalled by Mrs Thornton exclaiming,

"Indeed! A whole year. Well I must confess it still seems very sudden; obviously everyone knows of the Casterton's but none of us had ever heard mention of you before reading of your engagement in the paper this morning."

"And yet you have come here already decided in your opinion of me," Elizabeth bit out indignantly, staring at the vicious woman opposite her with obvious anger.

As Maria shifted in her seat and cleared her throat in silent warning to Elizabeth, Mrs Thornton smiled triumphantly and condescendingly pointed out, "You ought to learn to curb your tongue, Miss Casterton; I remember your mother displayed a similar and distressing inclination to say whatever she wished."

"You seem to me, Mrs Thornton, to possess the same inclination," Elizabeth retorted with a triumphant look.

Mrs Thornton's brows shot up and she turned to Maria, "Lady Fraiser, are you going to allow her to insult me in this manner?"

"No," Maria replied calmly, casting a pall of dread over Elizabeth, who could not stomach the thought of apologising, before adding, much to Elizabeth's immense relief, "I am going to ask you to leave. Now."

There was a tense silence as Maria waited patiently and Mrs Thornton tried to make sense of this unexpected development.

"Fine," she eventually said, standing. "I would do not wish to linger any longer in her company anyway," she added viciously, avoiding looking at Elizabeth. "She reminds me of her mother far too much."

With an abrupt curtsey their unwelcome visitor made to leave but was halted by Maria calling out to her with all the authority of a duchess.

"Yes, your grace?" Mrs Thornton asked, somehow managing to sound dignified.

"Consider your invitation to my ball rescinded," Maria stated firmly before resuming her seat, effectively dismissing the other woman who looked like she'd just swallowed a lemon.

When they were left alone, Elizabeth stared at her companion in shock. Maria noticed this and smiled as she asked, "Why do you look at me with such surprise?"

"I did not...I thought that..."

"That I would let their insults slide?" Maria guessed, adding when Elizabeth nodded. "That was never my intention. No, we are going on the offensive and that was just the beginning."

"But, the instructions you gave me," Elizabeth protested. "What of them?"

"I wanted to see how the ladies would react to a virtually mute little mouse," Maria revealed. "If they were horrible to you then I knew we would have no chance of persuading them to like the real you. They are simply determined to hate you."

"Well, that is a nice thought," Elizabeth remarked wryly before turning sheepish and apologising, "I'm sorry I did not keep myself in check like you had asked."

"Oh, don't worry about that," Maria assured her easily. "You did an admirable job considering the circumstances. And the point is that we now know that they are a lost cause and so can be forgotten about; after all, why waste the effort? Do you see what I mean?"

"That we should focus on the ones we will be able to persuade and simply forget about the rest," Elizabeth replied slowly, smiling as she realised Maria's plan.

"Exactly," Maria replied. "Now, leave every to me and just be yourself."

Over the next hour, Elizabeth did just that. She behaved as she normally would and was pleased with the results. None of the ladies who came to call after Mrs Thornton were overtly hostile and whilst some responded to her attempts at conversation with stubborn silence, for the most part the ladies were neutral in their treatment of her; some were even openly welcoming and friendly. Her vanity would have happily let her think that it was all due to her own charms but Elizabeth knew that Maria played a large part; or rather, Maria's non-so-subtle hints about Mrs Thornton not being invited to the ball and the reasons behind it played a large part.

Eventually calling hours came to an end and Maria and Elizabeth were finally allowed to relax.

"Well," Maria sighed, "that was not so bad, was it?"

"I'm exhausted!" Elizabeth protested, lounging on one of the settees.

"Well," Maria noted with a fond smile. "At least now you can rest whilst we await the return of our men folk. Honestly, who would have thought that purchasing a horse would take so long!"

Elizabeth agreed that a brief rest would be welcome and made to rise; the butler's appearance and his subsequent announcement altered her intention,

"Lady Fitzwilliam, Countess of Matlock to see you your grace."

"Show her in please," Maria told him, turning to Elizabeth and smiling to herself as the younger woman patted her hair, adjusted her skirts and pinched her cheeks in a flurry of nervous activity. Lady Fitzwilliam, it seemed, was more intimidating that a whole parade of unknown ladies.

Maria and Elizabeth arose to greet their unexpected guest with Maria stepping forward and warmly expressing her welcome before asking, "How are you, Lady Fitzwilliam? And your husband, how does he fare?"

"We are both well, thank you, your grace," Lady Fitzwilliam replied calmly.

"I am so sorry about your son," Maria commiserated, "though he seems to be recovering well."

"He is alive, I am thankful for that," Lady Fitzwilliam replied simply, distracted by the young lady watching her with obvious curiosity. Maria noticed their interaction and led Lady Fitzwilliam over to Elizabeth.

"Lady Fitzwilliam, may I introduce Miss Elizabeth Casterton. Elizabeth, this is Lady Fitzwiliam, Countess of Matlock and Mr Darcy's aunt."

"Countess," Elizabeth intoned respectfully as she curtseyed gracefully.

"Miss Casterton," Lady Fitzwilliam replied. "I am pleased to finally meet you at last."

"And I you," Elizabeth assured her.

Maria was about to ask her guest to be seated when there was a commotion upstairs, a scream, shouting and running footsteps. Looking more embarrassed than alarmed, Maria looked between Lady Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth and said, "Do please excuse me for a moment."

Elizabeth watched Maria go, suspecting the cause of the problem and trying not to laugh; she would be in trouble soon no doubt.

"Is something funny, Miss Casterton?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked, seeing her smile.

"Oh, um," Elizabeth replied, surprised to be caught but compelled to be honest. "It is only that I believe I know the likely cause of the commotion."

"Indeed?" Lady Fitzwilliam replied, obviously awaiting further explanation.

Elizabeth asked Lady Fitzwilliam to sit and took the seat beside her before replying, "Yes, you see, I helped young Lord Fredrick sneak a frog into the house this morning. I suspect it has just been discovered."

"I believe you are probably correct," Lady Fitzwilliam replied evenly as there was more shouting from upstairs, giving Elizabeth no clue as to her feelings.

"No doubt I shall similarly be found out soon," Elizabeth predicted with a light laugh.

"That does not trouble you?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked, studying the girl beside her with interest, not entirely sure what she had been expecting but sure that Miss Casterton was not it.

"Oh no, not really, I don't mind. As long as Fred doesn't reveal the reason I helped him, that is," she added without thinking.

"And what was the reason?" Lady Fitzwilliam inquired curiously. At Miss Casterton's blush and shy look she smiled and knowingly noted, "Ah, you need not tell me, I believe I can guess."

"It was nothing improper," Elizabeth hastened to explain but Lady Fitzwilliam held up her hand and assured her,

"You need not defend him to me, Miss Casterton. I know my nephew is an honourable man."

Elizabeth smiled and nodded, "He is; it is one of the things I admire most about him."

"You are very candid with me, Miss Casterton, though I am but a stranger," Lady Fitzwilliam noted following Elizabeth's disclosure.

"Forgive me if I make you uncomfortable, countess, but I have spent the entire day watching what I say and I find I have little tolerance for it any longer. It is a relief to speak freely once more!"

"So it seems," Lady Fitzwilliam remarked in her enigmatic way which Elizabeth was oddly beginning to like. "Do you often speak so freely?" She asked evenly, though the intense way she studied Elizabeth gave her away.

"Often enough," Elizabeth replied succinctly. She was thoughtful for a moment before saying, "Countess, please be frank with me. I am tired of disingenuous women. I would much prefer it if you were simply honest with me, if only so I could be equally honest with you."

"Very well," Lady Fitzwilliam granted, impressed.

"You have something to ask me, Countess, do you not?" Elizabeth asked.

"I do," Lady Fitzwilliam admitted.

"Whether I love your nephew?" Elizabeth guessed quietly.

"Yes," Lady Fitzwilliam replied with a nod. "Do you?"

"I do," Elizabeth vowed. Lady Fitzwilliam nodded but remained silent and Elizabeth smiled as she guessed again, "You wonder also whether I am good enough for him?"

"Yes," Lady Fitzwilliam confessed before adding, "though I can see now why he likes you."

"Really?" Elizabeth replied, surprised. She was not entirely sure she had made a good impression.

"Yes," Lady Fitzwilliam assured her. "And as for the rest," she added, "time will tell."

Elizabeth nodded and the two regarded one another for a moment before Lady Fitzwilliam sighed and rose to her feet. "I must take my leave; you have given me much to think about Miss Casterton."

"Oh," Elizabeth replied for nothing better to say.

"Please tell my nephew when you see him that I shall be attending the dinner he is hosting," Lady Fitzwilliam requested, further surprising Elizabeth.

"I will. And thank you for call, Countess, it was lovely to meet you."

"And you too, my dear," Lady Fitzwilliam replied kindly, allowing herself a smile. "I can see that you will make him very happy," she noted quietly.

"I hope so," Elizabeth replied shyly.

Her reply seemed to please Lady Fitzwilliam who smiled and wished Elizabeth a good day before departing. Elizabeth was left alone for a few moments, wondering what had just happened, before being joined by a flustered Maria.

"Oh, has she gone?" She asked upon entering the room.

"Yes," Elizabeth replied absently.

"Well, how did it go?" Maria prompted, looking at Elizabeth expectantly.

"I'm not entirely sure," Elizabeth replied slowly, in all honestly not sure at all.

"Well, time will tell I suppose," Maria replied philosophically. She suddenly became more serious as she regarded her young friend with a frown. "Now, would you mind telling me what on earth possessed you to bring that creature into my house?!"

"You found the frog then," Elizabeth noted sheepishly.

"Yes," Maria huffed. "My son allowed it to escape and it made its way into Sophia's chamber, terrifying both her and her maid who promptly squashed it with the coal shovel."

"Oh no!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "The poor frog; she didn't have to kill it."

"Indeed she did not, as my indignant son kept declaring; I have only just managed to calm him down," Maria sternly replied, watching Elizabeth expectantly.

"Forgive me," Elizabeth apologised contritely. "I will go and speak with him."

"Please do," Maria replied. "And the next time you have the urge to involve my son in such mischief, please refrain," she added.

"Yes Maria," Elizabeth replied, hoping she sounded chastened. She was sorry to have caused such trouble, but the situation still seemed somewhat amusing to her, if not to anyone else.

Maria watched Elizabeth go before taking a seat and allowing herself a quiet laugh. Honestly, a lady of one and twenty sneaking frogs into the house; Mr Darcy did not know what he was letting himself in for!

After completing his business, Darcy made his way to Bingley's townhouse and was promptly led to his friends study. Upon seeing who his visitor was, Bingley broke out into a wide smile and practically bounded across the room.

"Darcy! I expected to see you soon, though perhaps not this soon! Not that I am complaining mind you. But come, congratulate me my friend."

Darcy chuckled and wryly noted, "It is customary Charles to wait for a person to offer their congratulations, rather than demand it."

Bingley laughed at his observation but was not deterred, "Well, I am waiting Darcy. Your letter was all well and good but I want to hear in person what you have to say."

"Does my opinion matter so much?" Darcy asked, enjoying toying with his friend.

"It certainly does!" Bingley proclaimed. "I am already the happiest man in the world now that my angel has accepted me, but the congratulations of my best friend would be the icing on the cake."

"Then I heartily congratulate you Charles," Darcy conceded willingly, patting his friends shoulder. "I am certain you and Miss Bennet shall be very happy together and wish you joy."

"Thank you Darcy," Bingley replied sincerely before becoming excitable once more and proceeding to enthuse about his beloved angel and all her wonderful qualities for the next half an hour. Darcy listened contentedly, pleased with his friends happiness which he could see stemmed from a real appreciation of Miss Bennet's character and reasonable expectations for the future.

"I left Jane at her aunt and uncles house this morning," Bingley was saying, focusing Darcy's attention. "Lovely couple the Gardiners, very genteel and pleasant."

"Yes," Darcy replied. "Elizabeth has spoken of them a few times and is very fond of them. I find myself quite eager to meet them," he admitted.

"Yes, indeed, they are quite..." Bingley began to reply before abruptly stopping and looking at his friend with surprise, "Wait, what?"

"What?" Darcy replied, confused.

"You just referred to Miss Casterton as Elizabeth," Bingley pointed out, eyeing his friend with the beginnings of suspicion.

"Oh yes, so I did," Darcy replied lightly.

"I know you Darcy, you would never refer to a lady by her given name unless..." Seeing his friends smile Bingley's eyes widened and he exclaimed, "You are engaged!"

"I am," Darcy confirmed, unable to suppress his grin. "As of three days ago. The announcement was published this morning."

"That was quick," Bingley noted, referring to the announcement.

Darcy shrugged. "No doubt the result of my being seen as such an eligible match," he surmised cynically, "and of the apparent unsuitability of my bride to be."

"Yes, you are probably right," Bingley mused before brightening and bouncing over to wring his friend's hand. "Congratulations Darcy! Miss Casterton is a fine lady and were I not already convinced that Jane and I are to be happiest couple alive I would think that you and your betrothed deserved the title!"

"Thank you my friend," Darcy laughingly replied as he retrieved his somewhat mangled hand.

"Come, we must have a toast!" Bingley proclaimed, going to the table where the brandy was kept. "And then we must go to the club to share the good news!"

Darcy took the proffered glass and the two friends toasted their happiness; having done that, Darcy felt compelled to point out, "Whilst I would happily accompany you to our club, Bingley, I feel that I should warn you that not everyone will be willing to offer me their congratulations. If you would prefer to go alone, I would understand; I would not want to spoil it for you."

"It would spoil the occasion if you were not there," Bingley protested. "And surely none of the gentlemen would object to your engagement to Miss Casterton?"

"My uncle certainly did," Darcy noted wryly. "But perhaps object is the wrong word; more likely they will question my motives, and my betrothed's character. And virtue," he added darkly.

"I see," Bingley quieted replied. He startled and swore loudly, "Oh Christ, forgive me Darcy, I complete forgot to ask about your cousin! How is he, is he well?"

"He is quite well," Darcy assured his friend, appreciating Bingley's concern. "He is residing at Darcy House currently and is well on the way to recovery."

"I am glad to hear that," Bingley replied with sincere relief. "But why is he staying with you and not his parents?"

"As I said, my uncle has refused to condone my engagement to Elizabeth; he has cut ties with me and Richard did not wish to remain at home where I was not welcome. He has accepted Elizabeth wholeheartedly."

"I am sure Lord Fitzwilliam would do the same, were he given a chance to become acquainted with Miss Casterton," Bingley suggested hopefully.

"I offered him such a chance, but he was not interested," Darcy revealed with a sigh. "I spoke with my aunt this morning and she seemed more receptive but I confess I do not hold out much hope. My uncle is very narrow-minded and stubborn about these things."

"Well, let us not dwell on that," Bingley suggested cheerfully. "We are both to be married to equally lovely ladies and that needs celebrating. Let us go to the club and find our friends."

"Very well," Darcy agreed, rising. "Oh, before I forget," he said, suddenly remembering. "I will be hosting a dinner a week today to celebrate my engagement; naturally you and Miss Bennet are invited, but Elizabeth and I thought also to invite the Gardiners. Do you think they will be able to attend?"

"I think they would be happy to," Bingley replied positively. "And I should be happy to extend the invitation on your behalf if you need me to."

Darcy shook his head, "There is no need. I shall see Elizabeth later and will ask her to invite the Gardiners and Miss Bennet when she calls upon them. Thank you though."

"Next Sunday you say, for the dinner?" Bingley asked once they were on their way to their club.

"Yes," Darcy replied, picking up on something in Bingley's tone and asking, "Is that a problem?"

"Not for me but..." Bingley hesitated and confessed, "My sisters are due to return to town for the season on Saturday."

"Ah, I see," Darcy breathed; with Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst having spent the summer months exiled to Scarborough, Darcy had somewhat forgotten about them. He was thoughtful for a moment before hitting upon an easy solution. "It is a long journey from Scarborough, is it not?" He mused lightly.

"Certainly," Bingley agreed easily.

"And they are not due to reach town until Saturday?"

"That is the plan," Bingley replied, wondering what his friend was getting at.

"Well, I am certain that after such a long journey your sisters and Hurst will no doubt be very tired and be in need of much rest. So much rest, in fact, that it would not do to ask them to attend the dinner; it would indeed be too much to ask, wouldn't it?"

"Oh, yes, certainly," Bingley agreed innocently, smiling at how his clever friend had avoided having to admit that he did not want Bingley's sisters to attend.

"Well, then, that settles it," Darcy concluded. "I am sure they will be missed, but sometimes these things cannot be avoided and I would rather deprive myself of their company than risk them overtaxing themselves in anyway."

Marvelling at how his friend managed to keep a straight face throughout that ludicrous speech, Bingley laughed and exclaimed, "Darcy, you are terrible!"

Darcy merely smiled, pleased to have so easily avoided an uncomfortable encounter without offending his friend in the process.

On their arrival at their club, Darcy knew the moment he walked through the door that this was not going to be a pleasant experience. His defences immediately went up, his mask of cold dispassion firmly in place as he glanced around the room, looking for all the world as though he cared not at all about the looks he was receiving. Even Bingley picked up on the strange vibe coming from the gentlemen present and shifted uncomfortably beside him. Noticing a crowd of gentlemen around the notorious betting book, several of whom were casting amused glances in his direction, Darcy made to head that way, certain that he or Elizabeth were the subjects of many of their wagers. Bingley made to follow him but they were distracted from their course by a voice calling out to Darcy; he turned and greeted Lord Grenfell and his two friends, Lords Kirkhill and Mancroft, with stiff formality.

"I hear that congratulations are in order," Lord Grenfell began. "Engaged to Miss Elizabeth Casterton, daughter of the late Lady Casterton. I am sure you will be very satisfied, if she is anything like her mother," he suggested with a leer.

Knowing what he did of Lord Grenfell and his proclivities, Darcy was not wholly surprised at the man's audacity and managed to remain apparently unmoved (he remembered well his aunt's observation about the importance of not rising to the bait). He simply arched his brow and evenly replied,

"I have no doubt I shall be extremely satisfied with my marriage to Miss Casterton, my lord, and Lady Casterton and her dubious habits have little to do with it. My betrothed, like many others, refused to have anything to do with a woman of such questionable virtue. It is a pity that not everyone is so discerning," he pointedly remarked, "but there will always be those with low standards."

As Bingley tried to hide his smile Lord Grenfell gave Darcy a hard look before asking, "And how does Matlock feel about this news? Not happy, I suppose."

"No," Darcy candidly replied. "His standards are unrealistically high, whilst yours are disgustingly low. But as far as I am concerned, you are both wrong. Now if you will excuse me."

Darcy turned and walked away, not bothering to properly take leave of Lord Grenfell and his friends. Bingley caught up with him and quietly said, "I don't know how you stay so calm."

"Bingley," Darcy bit out, his expression still impassive though his tone was livid. "I could happily strangle the bastard."

"Oh," Bingley breathed, looking at his friend with some alarm.

As they made their way towards the betting book several men called out or made comments, most pertaining to Lady Casterton and Elizabeth and several in particularly bad taste. Some gentlemen simply ignored Darcy outright, refusing to acknowledge him (mostly of Lord Matlock's generation and set) but some remained quiet, greeting the two friends with nods and a few smiles and sympathetic looks. They stopped a few times to speak to some acquaintances who were willing to acknowledge them and refrained from passing judgement, congratulating both Bingley and Darcy on their engagements and somewhat reassuring the two friends that all was not lost. By the time they reached the betting book the crowd of gentlemen that had gathered around it had dispersed and Bingley and Darcy were able to peruse it freely. As he read through the numerous wagers listed Bingley felt a growing sense of anger and alarm; glancing at his friend's taut face and noticing the death grip he had upon the lectern he felt compelled to say something, but he knew not what.

Feeling the eyes of the room upon him, Darcy tried to control his anger and mortification by reminding himself that the opinions of these fools meant nothing. Their wagers were painful and insulting and many disparaged his honour (and Elizabeth's) but he tried to remind himself that none of it mattered as long as he and Elizabeth were together and happy. The wagers about how early a babe would arrive would be proved wrong in time, as would those about how long it would be before Elizabeth took a lover; they will all see how wrong they are, Darcy thought fiercely, they will eat their words before long. In fact...snatching up the pen and turning to a new page, Darcy thought for a moment before writing his own wager.

"Darcy what...?" Bingley began; he stopped to read what Darcy had written and after a moment of shock smiled widely. He then took the pen from his friend and signed his name below Darcy's, nodding decidedly and slapping his friend on the back. "Let us see what they make of that!"

"Darcy! Bingley!"

The two friends turned and smiled upon seeing a group of their friends approaching them; warm greetings were exchanged and Carlisle, Staunton and Williams all took turns shaking Darcy and Bingley's hands, offering their congratulations.

"Come," Staunton proposed, "let us find some seats and order some drinks and you can tell us all about your undoubtedly lovely ladies. You have both been very sly about this whole business and we demand you tell us all!"

"Yes, particularly you Darcy," Carlisle joked. "We all know of Bingley's fondness for the ladies so it is no surprise he has finally gotten himself engaged; but you, my friend, not so. I nearly choked on my coffee this morning when I read the announcement!"

"And to think," Williams indignantly protested, "that we, some of your closest friends, had to find out from the Times. You owe us an explanation Darcy and we will not be satisfied until we have it."

Darcy chuckled and willingly agreed to their demands, on one condition; that they sign his wager. Intrigued, the three friends left Darcy and Bingley to order their drinks and went to look in the book. Their laughter caught the attention of many present and they exchanged curious looks as the three friends happily signed Darcy's wager.

"We shall see if anyone is foolish enough to oppose it," Williams noted once he had signed it, noticing the curiosity of those watching. "Darcy would be justified in challenging anyone who did so."

"I believe that was his intention, to show them that from this moment he will not tolerate any more aspersions cast," Carlisle pointed out. "But come, let us leave them to answer Darcy's challenge and go and find out more about his Miss Casterton."

As the group of friends sat down and Bingley happily began extolling Miss Bennet's virtues, several gentlemen approached the betting book and read the following;

Wager posed by Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy:

Contrary to certain persons expectations, but not his own, Fitzwilliam Darcy anticipates a long and happy marriage of fidelity and contentment with Miss Elizabeth Casterton, until the day God sees fit to separate them. Furthermore, Fitzwilliam Darcy contends that his intended, Miss Elizabeth Casterton, is a lady of great virtue and impeccable character and any assumptions made about her are entirely baseless.

Agree Oppose

Fitzwilliam Darcy
Charles Bingley
Jacob Carlisle
Matthew Williams
Oliver Staunton

Chapter 23

Posted on January 29, 2010

"Tell me honestly, do I look as ridiculous as I feel?"

Darcy and Georgiana shared a look as Richard huffed and tugged once more at his ill-fitting jacket.

"Well, that was answer enough," he complained. "Why do you have to be so damned tall Darce? And why am I so blasted thin?! I feel like a boy wearing his father's clothes."

"Richard," Georgiana soothed. "You do not look that bad."

"Well thank you for that ringing endorsement Georgiana," Richard sarcastically snapped, earning himself a glare from Darcy and feeling immediately contrite. "Forgive me Georgie, that was uncalled for."

"It is alright," Georgiana assured him kindly.

"It's not too late to turn back," Darcy offered worriedly. "They would understand."

"No, no," Richard replied. "There's no need for that. Just ignore me," he sighed, "I do not know why it suddenly matters so much. It's not as if anyone is going to be paying much attention to what I'm wearing," he added, staring at his arm.

Exchanging worried looks, Georgiana and Darcy were both at something of a loss as to what to say. Richard couldn't help noticing this and unexpectedly smiled as he quipped,

"Your silence is most comforting, thank you."

"What would you have us say, Richard?" Darcy replied. "I expect many of the guests tonight will be strangers to us as well and as such we cannot be expected to know how they will react. The Fraiser's will be welcoming though, surely you realise that?"

"Of course," Richard sighed. "They are a charming family; my father could do with learning a thing or two from his grace."

Darcy smiled wryly at his cousin's observation but decided not to reply. Instead he said, "You will say won't you, if you wish to leave early? If you tire or the pain becomes too much."

"Yes Darcy," Richard replied with an eye roll, though his smile was warm.

"Do you really not know who else shall be attending tonight?" Georgiana asked her brother.

Darcy shook his head, "Elizabeth did mention that the Duke and Duchess of Stamford and their niece, Miss Stone, and her betrothed will be attending, but beyond that I am unaware of who else is on the guest list. We shall just have to wait and see."

Georgiana nodded and began bouncing her knee in nervous anticipation. Her two companions were less demonstrative with their feelings but similarly felt the significance of the evening. Richard's concerns were of course easily understandable but Darcy's were a little more complex; he was somewhat anxious about making a good impression on the Fraiser's guests, conscious of the fact that Elizabeth and he would need their support if they were to be accepted by society at large.

Fortunately for the trio they soon arrived at the Fraiser's townhouse and after being divested of their things were led to the drawing room where the Fraiser's and their guests were to gather before dinner. Walking beside Richard, Darcy could see the tension in his cousin's shoulders and unconsciously moved closer to his side in a silent show of support. Upon reaching the drawing room, however, Darcy smiled to himself upon perceiving that the Fraiser's, Elizabeth and her father were the only ones awaiting them; Richard also breathed a sigh of relief and immediately felt himself relax as everyone exchanged greetings and introduced those who were not already familiar with each other. After the new arrivals wished Maria a happy birthday and enquired about her day everyone slowly separated into groups and pairs, Elizabeth and Darcy stealing away into a corner for a more private greeting.

"You look beautiful, my love," Darcy murmured as he kissed the back of her hand.

"Thank you," Elizabeth blushed. "You have been well? I have not seen you since Saturday."

"I know," Darcy sighed, absently stroking her hand. "Am I allowed to have missed you in that time?"

"You certainly are," Elizabeth teased before smiling and confessing, "I missed you too."

Hearing Fredrick's laughter Elizabeth turned to see the young boy watching Colonel Fitzwilliam with rapt attention, apparently hanging on his every word. Richard did not seem to object at all to the attention, causing Darcy to chuckle.

"Fred has been waiting all day to meet your cousin," Elizabeth confessed with a smile. "He is captivated by anything to do with the army and remembers the Colonel from many years ago."

"Is that why he has been allowed to stay up?" Darcy guessed, still watching his cousin regale both Fredrick and Alex with tales of his exploits. He looked more cheerful than he had in a long while and Darcy was glad for it.

"Yes," Elizabeth admitted. "After the frog incident Maria thought he deserved a treat."

"He is still upset about that?" Darcy asked, looking down at his repentant betrothed.

Fredrick laughed again and began enthusiastically waving his arms and Elizabeth wryly noted, "Well, perhaps not anymore."

"And have you been forgiven yet?" Darcy teased with a grin and a glance at her father and the duke and duchess; when he had visited on Saturday he had had the whole story related to him by his red-faced betrothed.

"Oh, yes, I think so," Elizabeth replied before adding, "Though I fear Alex will not me live the incident down for quite some time yet. He found the whole thing vastly amusing."

"I remember," Darcy remarked with a smile, remembering well the Marquess' failed attempts to stifle his laughter as Elizabeth confessed what had happened to the poor creature.

"You had better not laugh," Elizabeth warned, her eyes dancing. "You are undoubtedly as much to blame as I."

"Oh, undoubtedly," Darcy agreed, unrepentant. He grinned when Elizabeth rolled her eyes and shook her head at him. "What?"

Before Elizabeth could reply their little tête-à-tête was interrupted by Maria who joined them and quietly asked Darcy, "Do you think my son is troubling your cousin? He is undoubtedly too much of a gentleman to say so but I would not see him made uncomfortable."

"I would say not," Darcy assured Maria as Richard laughed at something Alex said. "He seems to be enjoying himself immensely, your grace."

"Well, as long as he is happy," Maria replied. She smiled softly as she looked between them and then left the pair to themselves once more. Darcy watched her go before quietly admitting to Elizabeth, "I confess I was relieved to find that we were the first to arrive; Richard is somewhat nervous about appearing before strangers but at least this way the introductions will be gradual."

"I daresay that was the plan," Elizabeth replied just as quietly, smiling softly.

Realising the part his beloved had played, Darcy took her hand and pressed it as he took a step closer and intently whispered, "Thank you."

Elizabeth smiled and squeezed his fingers in return. Feeling the eyes of Lord Casterton upon them, however, Darcy cleared his throat and resumed his prior position before lightly enquiring, "How was Miss Bennet when you called upon her? And the Gardiners?"

"They were all very well," Elizabeth replied, her eyes twinkling. "Jane was quite surprised when I told her of our engagement- indeed I believe her words were you are joking, Lizzy, this cannot be! – but I eventually convinced her of my sincerity and she is very pleased for us both. As are the Gardiners. They will all be joining us for dinner."

Darcy nodded and expressed his pleasure at their acceptance; Elizabeth then asked him, "Have you seen your aunt and uncle since Saturday?"

She had of course shared with him the news of his aunt's unanticipated visit and he had greeted the intelligence with both surprise and hope.

"No," Darcy replied. "Though I shall call again soon. It pleases me greatly that my aunt has agreed to attend the dinner and I confess I cannot help but hope that my uncle will now be more willing to reconcile."

"I thought that perhaps I could invite your aunt to join us when we go shopping," Elizabeth suggested tentatively. "We have plans to take Georgiana and Sophia at the weekend but before then Jane and Mrs Gardiner are going to join Maria and I when we go shopping for our ball gowns; I thought that your aunt might like to come. Do you think she would like to join us?"

"I think that it would be very nice of you to ask her," Darcy replied, pleased that Elizabeth was making an effort to befriend his reluctant relations. He smiled sadly at the thought that, in her desire to make her own impressions, she was being fairer to them than they had been to her. Fairer too than he had initially been to her.

"My love?" Elizabeth watched as Darcy seemed to come back to himself, his pensive expression fading into an apologetic smile.

"Forgive me, I was lost in thought. I think it a lovely idea to ask my aunt to join you; I am sure she would be happy to do so."

Elizabeth nodded, wondering what had momentarily troubled him but deciding not to press the issue. Instead she asked, "And how is Mr Bingley? I confess I look forward to the weekend so that I may see him again; it has been such a long time!"

"He is very well, as usual," Darcy assured her easily. "If feel I should warn you though that he is, if possible, even more jovial than before. His engagement has only served to increase his natural propensity to be delighted with everyone and everything. It is quite sickening really," he added with a grin.

"William," Elizabeth laughed, "You should be happy for him!"

"Oh, I am," Darcy assured her. "But whilst Charles openly expresses his happiness, I have always preferred to experience mine quietly. He laughs whilst I smile," he quipped, sounding almost apologetic.

"My darling William," Elizabeth confided in an intimate tone. "If your smile is the only expression of your happiness I ever see, I shall be perfectly content. I love your smile."

Forgetting himself entirely Darcy again stepped closer and his hand rose, about to stroke her cheek when he heard Lord Casterton discreetly clearing his throat, reminding Darcy of his situation. Elizabeth had seen though what he had been about to do and smiled up at him, her eyes very eloquently expressing her feelings. Sharing a secret smile they again put more distance between themselves and Darcy asked how Elizabeth had found accompanying Maria as she returned the calls of the ladies who had called upon them.

"It was surprisingly pleasant," Elizabeth confessed, sounding relieved. "Admittedly we did avoid returning the calls of certain ladies which undoubtedly made the experience much easier," she acknowledged pointedly, having already made Darcy aware of the particulars of Mrs Thornton's and Lady Townsende's visits. "But I was still surprised by how friendly some of the ladies were. And I could tell that not all of their kindness was as a result of Maria's presence, which was nice," she admitted shyly.

"Of course they liked you," Darcy replied resolutely. "They simply needed the chance to get to know you personally."

Elizabeth smiled affectionately as his obvious bias but remained silent and thoughtful.

"What is it?" Darcy asked, stroking her arm with his fingertips. "Elizabeth?"

"I fear that it shall be easier for me than my father," Elizabeth confessed eventually. "The response to his reappearance has not been very encouraging."

"No," Darcy agreed. When Elizabeth looked at him he admitted, "A friend of mine was present and related the particulars to me." Elizabeth's shoulders slumped and he attempted to look on the bright side. "It could have been worse, I suppose."

"Oh, yes, certainly," Elizabeth breathed with a slight chuckle. She arched a brow at her betrothed as she pointed out, "That is not very comforting William."

"Condolence is apparently not my forte," Darcy remarked wryly, remembering his earlier attempts with Richard. "Sorry."

Elizabeth shook her head, assuring him it was alright. Sensing her continued unease Darcy lowered his head and whispered in her ear, "All will be well, my love, you'll see. And in case you were worried, as far as I'm concerned, you and your father come as a pair; I will not accept anyone who does not accept you both."

As he straightened Elizabeth looked to him for further confirmation of his words and he nodded and smiled reassuringly. He was surprised when she reached up and laid her palm against his cheek.

"Oh William, that we did not have an audience so that I could thank you properly," she whispered fervently. "How well you know me!"

"I am learning," Darcy replied as he took hold of her hand and kissed it before whispering, "For instance, I have already learnt what that particular look in your eye means and I should caution you that if you continue to look at me in such a manner, my love, I shall soon be in trouble with your father."

"We cannot have that," Elizabeth replied with a glance at her father who was indeed watching them with narrowed eyes. She retrieved her hand and occupied herself for a few moments with the straightening of her skirts before looking back up at him and saying, "Thank you William. You have eased my mind."

"I meant what I said," Darcy stated. "He is like family to me now; I will not see him slighted."

Unable to help herself, Elizabeth leant up on her tiptoes and pressed a brief kiss to his cheek. Her father immediately reprimanded her and called her to his side and, with a smile at her betrothed, Elizabeth did as she was bidden, looking totally unapologetic. Watching her go Darcy smiled to himself, ignoring the giggles of Georgiana and Sophia and the knowing looks of both Alex and Richard.

Fortunately for Elizabeth the first of the guests were then announced and she was spared further reprimand from her father, although she did have to endure several disapproving looks he cast in her direction. Sorry to have angered him, she leant over to press a kiss to his cheek and whispered her apology. He appeared slightly mollified and after a bit of a grumble eventually offered her his arm so that they could greet the new arrivals.

"I hope I do not need to remind you not to forget yourself again this evening; it is bad enough amongst friends..." Lord Casterton muttered as they waited to be introduced.

"I know, papa," Elizabeth assured him. "And you are correct, I do not need reminding. It is just so hard when Mr Darcy says such nice things to me," she teased in an undertone, pleased when her father's lips twitched.

"Oh really?" Lord Casterton replied, amused. "Made you silly with his pretty words has he Lizzy?"

"Hardly," Elizabeth retorted, making her father chuckle. "We were talking about you," she revealed, surprising him.

"Me?" Lord Casterton repeated. "You are an odd pair," he commented bemusedly. "And what did your betrothed say that was so nice?" He asked, intrigued.

Elizabeth related their conversation and Darcy's promise to her father and was pleased when he smiled to himself and patted her hand affectionately.

"You are a good girl," he tenderly complimented her. "And he shall be an excellent son-in-law."

"I am glad you think so," Elizabeth replied; they both smiled at Darcy who, upon realising he was the subject of their scrutiny, blushed lightly and pretended not to notice.

Lord and Lady Anderson, their niece Miss Stone and her betrothed Lord Earle were the guests who had arrived and whilst they were undeniably pleased to see Maria and Lewis and their family again, it was Elizabeth and Lord Casterton whom Lord and Lady Anderson were the most eager to greet. Taking no offence, easily understanding their friends desire to reacquaint themselves with the Casterton pair, Maria and Lewis happily handled the re-introductions and watched with satisfaction as the Anderson's warmly welcomed Lord Casterton back into the fold. Seeing that all their guests were happy for the moment, they took the opportunity to hustle an unwilling Fredrick off upstairs to bed.

"You have been gone far too long Courtney, far too long," Lord Anderson remarked in his gruff manner. "Town has suffered for your absence. And pay no attention to that young fool Prentice," he added dismissively, looking extremely put out. "It's the youth of today, no respect, none at all."

"I would humbly beg to differ, your grace," Elizabeth piped up, smiling. "Lord Prentice is of little credit to the rest of us, but not all of us youths are quite so bad."

"Hmm, quite right I suppose," Lord Anderson replied. He studied Elizabeth for a moment before nodding approvingly and looking at Lord Casterton, "Seems a charming girl; congratulations."

"Thank you," Elizabeth impertinently replied before her father had the chance. He chuckled as Lady Anderson smiled and even the duke looked a little amused.

"It really is lovely to have you back with us Lord Casterton," Lady Anderson said, adding happily, "and with the Fraiser's back as well it almost feels like old times."

"Indeed it does," Lord Casterton agreed, set at ease by the familiarity and sincerity of the Anderson's. "All we need do is wait for the Parker's and the Hanley's and the old crowd shall be reunited."

"Old perhaps being the operative word," Lady Anderson remarked wryly, turning to Elizabeth as she added, "The last time we were all together you would have retired for the night by now; and yet here you are, all grown up and engaged to be married. How time flies," she sighed, smiling up at her husband who nodded his agreement.

"Speaking of my engagement, your grace," Elizabeth teased, not wanting for them to fall into melancholy. "I must ask whether he has fulfilled your expectations?" She glanced over at Darcy and then back at her grace, waiting patiently.

"My expect...?" Lady Anderson repeated. Smiling suddenly she discreetly turned to study Mr Darcy where he stood by his cousin, with Lord Earle and Alex. Turning back to Elizabeth after a moment she arched her brow and dryly stated, "They have been exceeded my dear, quite considerably. You are a lucky woman."

As Lord Casterton and Lord Anderson exchanged confused looks Elizabeth smiled happily and replied, "Of that I am well aware your grace."

As Lady Anderson laughed at Elizabeth's candid reply Maria and Lewis returned from saying goodnight to their son and moved to handle the rest of the introductions. Whilst Maria claimed Lord Casterton's arm and took him over to greet Rebecca and Lord Earle, Lewis led the Anderson's over to meet the Darcy party, aware that forcing the Colonel to rise repeatedly throughout the evening would cause him unnecessary discomfort. Smiling as Elizabeth took her place beside Darcy as though it were the most natural thing in the world, Lewis turned to his friends and said,

"May I introduce Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy, his sister Miss Georgiana Darcy and his cousin Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam; Mr Darcy and Elizabeth are, as I expect you already know, engaged to be married. Darcy, Colonel, Miss Darcy, this is the Duke and Duchess of Stamford, Lord and Lady Anderson."

Realising he was being introduced to a duke and duchess, Richard attempted to rise, the etiquette lessons he had had drilled into him from boyhood compelling him to stand and bow as was proper. Seeing this Lord Anderson held out a hand to forestall the other gentlemen as his wife exclaimed,

"Oh no, please dear, do not get up, certainly not on our account! All that bowing and curtseying becomes so tiring after a while, I should much rather shake your hand," and she promptly offered her hand to him, smiling when he took it. "There, you see, so much easier."

"Thank you your grace," Richard replied quietly. "You are very kind."

Lady Anderson smiled with understanding before turning to Elizabeth and Darcy and happily noting, "So, here we are, the happy couple. What a fine picture you present; do they not suit each other well Henry?"

"Yes dear," Lord Anderson replied dutifully, though he did offer Darcy his hand. "Congratulations sir."

"Thank you, your grace," Darcy replied with a bow of his head, beginning to feel the uniqueness of his current situation, keeping company with two dukes. He was immediately set at ease once more however by his grace remarking,

"I knew your father you know, years and years ago. You look just like him."

"I have been told I bear more than just a passing resemblance to him," Darcy admitted. He thanked his grace when he expressed his sadness at his father's sudden passing.

"And I must say, Miss Darcy, that you look very much like your mother," Lord Anderson noted, surprising Georgiana who had been struggling to check the nervousness that had suddenly overwhelmed her.

"Oh!" She squeaked. Flushing she cleared her throat and just about managed to reply, "I did not realise."

"Oh yes my dear, quite so," Lady Anderson told her. "It is just beginning to show now but wait a few more years and you shall be just like her, a beautiful young lady."

Georgiana smiled at the compliment and thanked her grace; seeing she was uncomfortable and taking pity on his cousin Richard smiled expectantly and asked, "And what of me, your grace? I am not so vain as to think myself as handsome as either of my cousins here, but who do I favour?"

"You seem to me a bit of a mixture," Lady Anderson replied, studying him with a smile.

"A mongrel then," Richard quipped, "much as I thought."

They all laughed at Richard's joke even as Lady Anderson attempted to protest that that was not what she had meant at all. They remained as a group for some time, enjoying getting to know one another better until more guests began to arrive and they felt it only right to mingle with the others. Eventually the entire party was present and they all moved to the dining room after a servant announced that dinner was served.

The table over which Lewis and Maria presided was composed entirely of good friends, both old and new, and they were as pleased with their guests as their guests were with each other; judging by how conversation flowed up and down the table throughout the evening. Rising and thanking everyone for coming, Lewis took a moment to make a short speech in honour of his wife before asking everyone to raise their glasses for a toast to his duchess. The couple shared a smile full of meaning before Lewis resumed his seat and took a moment to survey the gathered company.

Sir Charles Rentley and his daughter Veronica sat nearby, the former conversing quite spiritedly with Elizabeth who had discovered that Sir Charles was a politician and had found something about which to argue with him. Miss Rentley seemed quite happy speaking to Lady Anderson, and Lewis could not help but notice that Alex seemed equally happy to listen and watch Miss Rentley as she spoke. Next to Lewis was Lord Parker, the Earl of Brockden and Lewis' former brother in law from his first marriage, and next to him was his wife Lady Parker, with child for the fifth time and as radiant as ever. Lord Hanley was next to Mr Martin Reeves, Alex's best friend from university and a handsome young man of six and twenty. Across from Mr Reeves was Miss Darcy, who was intermittently speaking with Sophia and blushing prettily whenever the gentleman spoke to her. Next to Sophia was the Colonel, looking quite happily engaged in conversation with Mrs Peters, a widowed friend of Maria's, and next to her was Lord Anderson, laughing at something Lord Casterton had said to him. Darcy was between Miss Stone and Mr Geoffrey Dean, whom Lewis and Maria had met whilst on the continent, and across from Lord Earle and Mrs Dean, a lady renowned for her musical talents. Of all those present Lewis thought that Darcy appeared perhaps the least pleased, though he appeared by no means unhappy; rather, the distance he was sat away from his betrothed and the lack of attention she was paying him at first seemed disagreeable to him, but soon enough he seemed happy to converse with Mr Dean, an agreeable fellow with whom Lewis believed he likely had much in common.

"Miss Casterton, I must ask," Sir Charles said, taking a sip of his wine, "how it is that you are so well informed about what takes place in Parliament? You seem to know more about it than I," he joked, "and I am the one who attends the sessions!"

"My father kindly allows me to subscribe to printed accounts of parliamentary business," Elizabeth replied with a smile at her father who was busy talking with Lord Anderson. "I was most upset when the Parliamentary Register ceased publication earlier this year but Mr. Hansard's Parliamentary Debates seems a good substitute*."

"Wasn't that publication started by Mr Cobbett**?" Sir Charles asked, frowning slightly.

"I believe so," Elizabeth replied, knowing full well who had originally begun the publication. She quickly moved the conversation along. "Such accounts are of course only partial and not entirely accurate, but at least they allow a person to have some grasp of what goes on in parliament. I find it fascinating," she enthused excitedly, making Sir Charles chuckle.

"You are one of a select few if that is the case, Miss Casterton," he noted, "Politics is not a past-time which many people have an interest in."

"I know," Elizabeth sighed, "not that I can understand it. How can people not be interested at such a time? The differing forces at work within our country, the numerous voices and opinions fighting to be heard, the conflicting interests and compelling questions that much be answered- how can anyone remain happy in their ignorance of all that is being said and done?"

She looked expectantly at Sir Charles who was somewhat taken back by her fervour and struggled to reply; having observed their interaction Lord Casterton smiled and teased his daughter,

"You should not make such profound enquiries my dear without giving a man a little time to prepare beforehand."

"Oh dear," Elizabeth laughingly replied, "You are correct, father, of course. Forgive me Sir Charles, I did not mean to catch you off guard. I expect you came here anticipating an evening of light conversation and here I am ambushing you with a political debate!" She joked, pleased when Sir Charles did indeed seem more at ease when he realised she wasn't really expecting him to answer.

At the head of the table, Lewis was speaking to his friend and former brother in law, Lord Parker. They had been friends before they had become related by marriage and both men were glad that their friendship had survived the unhappiness of Lewis' marriage to Parker's sister. Glancing over the gathered company, Lord Parker turned to Lewis and wryly noted,

"I thought you said that this was going to be a small gathering of friends; there are over twenty people present."

"Can I help it if so many people find my wife as charming as I do?" Lewis retorted with a grin.

"Touché," Lord Parker replied, smiling. Looking at Darcy he pointed out, "Miss Casterton's betrothed and his family were I suppose unexpected additions."

"Yes," Lewis agreed. "Though we are happy to host them. It will be a fine match and Sophia likes Miss Darcy very much already."

"And what do you think of Darcy?" Lord Parker asked in an undertone. "I rather thought that you had intended her for your son."

"Perhaps I had," Lewis revealed quietly, "but she has found herself a worthy alternative. They are utterly smitten with one another," he remarked amusedly, "and Michael is fond of Darcy also."

"That is well," Lord Parker replied. "It will lessen the sadness of losing his daughter, knowing that he is gaining a son-in-law he thinks so well of."

Lewis nodded his agreement and added, "There is also the fact that Darcy likes his soon to be father-in-law just as much; he has so far been steadfast in his support of both Elizabeth and her father."

"Was he present at Tattersall's?" Lord Parker asked delicately, not having heard the whole story.

"No," Lewis replied, his brow darkening with remembrance of the incident. "From what I gather he was at his club, fighting his own battles."

"What happened, exactly?" Lord Parker asked with concern. "All I heard was that words were exchanged between Prentice and Lord Casterton; knowing the former's character I doubt much of what was said was complimentary."

Lewis sighed before explaining in an undertone, "We were there for the final viewing of a mare I wanted to purchase, and left Michael to look over the horses whilst we spoke about the terms. On our return we found Michael and Prentice together and as soon as we appeared by his side Prentice, the coward, scurried away back to his friends who were stood snickering in the corner. According to what little Michael has told me, Prentice made several insulting remarks about Elizabeth and even had the gall to mention the relationship his father had had with Viola."

"You are joking!" Lord Parker exclaimed, fortunately in a whisper.

"Sadly not," Lewis replied. "Fortunately Prentice had the sense to moderate his voice so that no-one could overhear his comments, though I am sure many could guess what was being said. He likely was worried about the consequences of publically making such insults," Lewis added derisively, shaking his head.

"Well, it could have been worse," Lord Parker suggested. "And the whole incident gives us reason to hope."

"Indeed," Lewis replied, dubious, "how so?"

"Prentice is a fool," Parker stated. "He is reckless and irresponsible and does and says whatever he feels like. If he did not have the gumption to openly insult Lord Casterton, it makes me wonder who will? On the other hand," he added with a frown, "there is the danger that once one person has done it, others will follow."

Lewis nodded thoughtfully, considering what Lord Parker had said. He made a good point; there certainly did seem to be something holding people back, as though they wanted to say something but did not want to be the first to do so. Perhaps if they acted first to head-off any unfavourable reaction to his friend's return they might be able to avoid the worst of it.

At the far end of the table, Maria was listening as Lady Sarah Hanley, a neighbour from home, was describing a book she had recently given to her sister, a children's book written by Mrs Wollstonecraft.

"For whilst it is a children's book," Lady Hanley was saying, "it also contains some very interesting arguments about the benefits of educating children. I love my sister dearly," she confessed, "but I worry about her daughters; they are vain, silly little creatures and I fear it will soon be too late to change them. I could not say such a thing outright to my sister, of course," she admitted with a smile, "but I hope that the book may provide her with a subtle indication of my concerns."

"It is a difficult issue," Maria agreed. "I remember when Lewis and I were trying to decide whether to send Sophia to school or not, we were worried that by not sending her we would be depriving her of a worthwhile experience, but at the same time we wondered what sort of education she would be receiving. In the end we felt that we can better oversee what she was taught by having her remain at home and employing masters. I confess however that I have never read what Mrs Wollstonecraft had to say about the matter, though I suspect Miss Casterton has," Maria noted with a smile. "She is very much in favour of extending education, particularly to girls."

"Indeed?" Lady Hanley replied, looking at Elizabeth with interest. "A bluestocking like myself then; I had no idea."

Maria nodded and seeing as Elizabeth was not sat too far away softly called to her, "Lizzy? Lady Hanley and I were just discussing a book by Mrs Wollstonecraft and wondered whether you had read it; what was it called Lady Hanley?"

"Original Stories from Real Life. With Conversations Calculated to Regulate the Affections, and Form the Mind to Truth and Goodness," Lady Hanley supplied.

Elizabeth nodded, ignoring the way a few of the gentlemen present looked at her and Lady Hanley with surprise. "Yes, I have read it. Do you have the second edition or the first?" She asked.

"The first," Lady Hanley replied, "though I have heard the illustrations in the second are wonderful."

"Indeed they are," Elizabeth agreed. "I am a great fan of Mr Blake's work."

"From what I have heard, you are alone in that Miss Casterton," Mr Dean joked. "I have a friend who is interested in art and he went along to Blake's exhibition a few years ago; said it was an expensive waste of time. The man fancies himself a great master but on the whole I find his pieces very badly drawn and unintelligible***. Now Lawrence on the other hand," he enthused suddenly, "there is a great master!"

And so began a discussion about art and artists as Elizabeth smiled and went back to her plate of food, not at all surprised to have had her favourite dismissed so easily; feeling herself being watched, she looked up to find William looking at her, his eyes silently questioning. She smiled at him, reassuring him that all was well before Sir Charles once again engaged her in conversation.

At the conclusion of the meal, Maria led the ladies to the music room whilst the gentlemen went with Lewis to his study to enjoy their brandy and cigars. Lady Hanley and Elizabeth immediately claimed one another's company, both sensing that they had found something of a kindred spirit. Maria sat down with Lady Parker and was joined by Lady Anderson and Mrs Peters; as married women with children were won't to do, they began discussing Lady Parker's condition at length. Mrs Dean sat with Georgiana, Sophia, Miss Rentley and Miss Stone, discussing music and the pieces Sophia and Elizabeth had arranged to play for Maria once the gentlemen had joined them.

In Lewis' study meanwhile, Darcy and his cousin were savouring their brandies and discussing their impressions of the evening so far. Not all of the guests were strangers to them, indeed many of those present were known throughout town, but neither man had spent such a prolonged period of time in their company. Lord Earle they agreed was a bit too quiet but nice enough, Sir Charles too loud and too intrusive for their tastes. Lords Hanley and Parker were both already known to Darcy and Richard and they agreed that the two Lords had only improved on further acquaintance; along with Lord Anderson they seemed agreeable, friendly and intelligent men. The notice Mr Reeves had taken of Georgiana had been noted by both men and was commented upon (though without much concern- Georgie they agreed was much too young for such considerations), as was the apparent notice the Marquess had taken of Miss Veronica Rentley. Following on from this point, Darcy regarded his cousin for a long moment before finally asking,

"And how did you like Mrs Peters? You seemed to be getting along well."

Richard looked at his cousin for a moment before replying, "She seemed nice enough." Preventing any further enquiries he smiled and joked, "But come now, enough of this; we are gossiping like women."

Darcy smiled, recognising a tactical avoidance when he saw one and allowing Richard to change the subject.

"Your betrothed certainly seemed to keep Sir Charles occupied," Richard noted with a grin. "I have the feeling she would have made a fine politician had she been born a man."

"Undoubtedly," Darcy agreed. "Though she would not be my betrothed were that the case," he dryly added.

Rolling his eyes at his cousin's reply, Richard turned from him and looked about the room, noticing Lord Casterton stood with Lord Anderson, Lord Hanley and their host. He looked totally at home amongst them and, seeing that Darcy's eyes were also turned towards Lord Casterton, Richard quietly noted,

"Seeing him here like this makes me realise how different everything could have been, had it not been for..."he left the rest unsaid, his implication clear.

"Yes," Darcy breathed, thoughtful. "And yet..."

"What?" Richard asked, looking at Darcy and awaiting an explanation.

"I confess I wonder whether my betrothed would be the same young woman she is now, had her mother been different," Darcy admitted slowly. "Surely Elizabeth would be a different person entirely."

"Unquestionably," Richard agreed. "The things one experiences in life shape you as a person. Had her experiences been different, she would necessarily also be different."

"Exactly," Darcy replied. Seeing his cousin's confusion he explained, "She would not be the same woman whom I love. She would be someone else."

Comprehension dawned. "You are saying you would not change anything," Richard surmised, "because you would not wish to change her."

"I am selfish I know," Darcy replied with a self-deprecating smile. "But it is the truth. I am sorry for the pain they have both had to endure and a part of me does wish that they had had a happier time of it, but for the most part I would not change the past because I love Elizabeth just the way she is."

Staring at his cousin for a long moment, Richard cleared his throat and quietly said, "You are a lucky man, William, and I envy you such feelings. At the same time, however, I can think of no-one who deserves to be happy more than you."

"Thank you Richard," Darcy replied, just as quietly. He patted his cousin on the shoulder and confidently told him, "I am sure that you will find such happiness for yourself one day."

"One day," Richard sighed, smiling wanly. "Perhaps."

"Come, gentlemen," Lewis surprised them then by addressing the room as a whole. "Let us rejoin our lovely ladies."

The gentlemen all moved to do just that and were soon entering the music room where their ladies were awaiting them. All the married men went straight to join their wives and the engaged men their betrothed's, whilst several of the bachelors approached their favoured unattached lady; this left Lord Casterton and Sir Charles who looked at one another with almost matching expressions.

"I feel old and unloved," Sir Charles noted sardonically, chuckling when Lord Casterton grinned.

"Well, at least we have each other," he quipped lightly; Sir Charles chortled and the two men then struck up an easy conversation about the highs and lows of attempting to raise daughters alone.

"At least you have found your daughter a good man," Sir Charles noted, eyeing Darcy as he stood speaking quietly with Elizabeth. "And you need not worry on that score any longer."

"No," Lord Casterton agreed, smiling knowingly as he eyed Alex and Miss Rentley together. "Though your daughter does not seem to be without admirers."

Sir Charles turned and watched his daughter with the gentlemen for a moment, obviously having not taken note of their interaction during dinner. "Well, well," he breathed. "I wonder whether anything will come of that."

"He would make any man a fine son-in-law," Lord Casterton complimented, smiling fondly at Alex. "He will be just like his father one day."

"A fine man," Sir Charles intoned, looking at Lewis. "And his lady is charming also; I am honoured to be counted amongst their friends."

"As am I," Lord Casterton agreed quietly. "Extremely honoured."

I bet you are, Sir Charles thought amusedly; he heard Elizabeth laughing and noted, "Your daughter certainly is a spirited little thing; no doubt she will keep Darcy on his toes!"

"Oh, no doubt," Lord Casterton agreed, inwardly wondering whether he liked having his daughter described as a little thing, as though she were a source of amusement. Pushing the feeling aside he asked, "Do you plan on attending the ball next week?"

"Of course," Sir Charles replied. "It has quickly become the event of the season. Is it true that Mrs Thornton is not invited?" He asked curiously.

"It is," Lord Casterton confirmed, not volunteering any further information.

"And why is that?" Sir Charles prodded.

"She treated Maria with disrespect and so her invitation was rescinded," Lord Casterton replied briefly, not liking the turn the conversation had taken.

"I heard that it was your daughter rather than her grace whom Mrs Thornton failed to treat with respect," Sir Charles suggested knowingly.

"Doesn't one essentially insult the hostess when you insult her guest?" Lord Casterton challenged, one brow raised.

"I suppose so," Sir Charles agreed easily, sensing that he had touched a nerve. He was relieved when Lewis stood and announced that Sophia and Elizabeth were going to perform some of Maria's favourite pieces for her, effectively ending their conversation. He sincerely liked the Fraiser's and did not want to lose their favour, but he did wonder at their willingness to associate with Casterton.

Darcy reluctantly allowed Elizabeth to leave him and join Sophia at the pianoforte, the promise of hearing her sing the only consolation to losing her company which he felt he had not enjoyed enough of this evening. She favoured him with a glowing smile as Sophia sat herself at the pianoforte and her eyes were more often than not focused on him throughout her performance; feeling himself both content and extremely proud, Darcy stood and watched and listened with a smile of love and admiration playing about his lips. He barely noticed when Lord Casterton came to stand with him though the way Elizabeth's smile became even brighter was quite telling. Their performance gradually concluded and the last note had barely faded away before Maria was on her feet and hurrying towards her daughter and Elizabeth.

"Oh, my darlings! That was beautiful, simply beautiful! Sophia, my dear, you played that wonderfully," she complimented, pressing a kiss to her daughters cheek. "And Lizzy, my goodness; I cannot remember the last time I heard such a beautiful voice," she enthused, pressing a kiss to Elizabeth's cheek as well. "Thank you so much girls."

"It was our pleasure Maria," Elizabeth assured her laughingly. "Though we do still have two more pieces to perform for you," she added with a smile at Sophia who looked very pleased with all the praise.

"Wonderful," Maria replied; she went back to her seat as her friends smiled at her and Lewis, from his place stood behind her seat, laid his hand on her shoulder and smiled down at her with open affection.

Elizabeth and Sophia performed the rest of their pieces, the final a duet at the pianoforte, before giving way and allowing the other ladies to perform, although not before graciously accepting the warm praise of their audience. Mrs Dean was the first to follow them and her performance certainly justified her reputation as a highly skilled musician, so much so that it was obvious that the remaining ladies were a little anxious about following her. Much to Darcy and Richard's delight, Georgiana eventually consented to performing a duet with Elizabeth and afterwards, when Lord Casterton gently requested she play a solo piece, Georgiana agreed to another performance, unable to deny the gentleman who was always so nice to her. Everyone was impressed by her skill and Mrs Dean was quick to praise the young lady, making Georgiana blush.

"Your sister is such a darling girl," Elizabeth said quietly to her betrothed. "So like Jane in her modesty."

Darcy smiled proudly at his sister. "For so long I thought her blushes the result of her timidity, but now I am inclined to agree with you. She is very modest, and yet she is fast becoming a young lady whom, I flatter myself, is quite wonderful. I could not ask for a better sister," he concluded happily, looking down at Elizabeth.

"Nor I," Elizabeth agreed, amending with a smile, "at least, I certainly shan't when she is my sister."

"Have you thought anymore about when you would like for us to be married?" Darcy asked quietly.

"As soon as possible?" Elizabeth replied honestly; Darcy's impassioned look made her bite her lip and she endeavoured to properly consider the question. "Jane told me that her wedding will be at the end of October; father and I shall travel home for it, and of course you will also be in attendance, so perhaps sometime in November?"

"You wish to marry from home then?" Darcy asked, having thought that would be the case.

"Yes," Elizabeth replied with a resolute nod. "Nowhere else would do."

"Very well," Darcy agreed easily; he took her hand and kissed it, his thumb stroking the skin of her wrist. "We shall be married from Willoughby in November."

"Shall we travel to Pemberley afterwards?" Elizabeth asked, quite resigned to the slight tremor in her voice which seemed an invariable result of his ministrations.

"If you wish," Darcy replied. "I confess I am eager to show you our new home," he admitted, smiling at the way Elizabeth smiled, "but are you sure you do not wish go anywhere first? Bath, or somewhere on the coast?"

"Bath does not appeal to me at all," Elizabeth confessed, "and we shall have plenty of time to travel when we are married. No," she smiled shyly, "I believe I should like very much for you to take me to Pemberley and for us to spend our honeymoon there."

"I had hoped you would say that," Darcy breathed. "I cannot wait to show you Pemberley. I am certain you will love it."

"I am sure I shall," Elizabeth assured him happily. He smiled, his eyes dancing, and Elizabeth could not help saying, "I love you William. I cannot wait until we are married."

"Nor I, Elizabeth," Darcy replied. "Nor I."

Author's Notes:

* Parliamentary Debates was originally published by William Cobbett in 1802 and was printed by Thomas Hansard. In 1812 Cobbett sold the publication to Hansard and this publication eventually became the official recording of parliamentary business in 1902, known today simply as Hansard. Anyone remotely interested can find it on the website www.parliament.uk

** William Cobbett was a journalist and reformer who was a strong voice for parliamentary reform. He was imprisoned from 1810-12 for treasonous libel and eventually had to flee to America in 1817 to avoid being arrested for sedition. He is best known for his book Rural Rides, published first in the 1820s.

*** Actual review of Blake's exhibition taken from The Examiner of 17 March 1809, written by the critic Robert Hunt

Oh and I know the table arrangement doesn't work and there are probably about 15 people on one side of the table and 5 on the other, but this is how I wanted it, so there :P