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I

Posted on 2010-03-15

Lady Sophia Saint John was exceedingly angry as she slammed the knocker at Darcy house.

"Where is he, where is your master," she inquired of the butler who answered the door.

The Master is not receiving visitors," he replied

"Well he will see me she snapped, where is he, never mind I know where he hides, I will not be gainsaid in this, she brushed by him and threw open the library door to see Darcy standing looking out the window.

As she slammed the door shut behind her the housekeeper stopped Carstairs saying "What is going on, that is Lady Saint John is it not."

"Indeed it is he replied, never have I known her to act thus. She shoved me aside and almost knocked me down. I expect such from Lady Catherine but never Lady Saint John."

"I wonder what the master has done to make her so angry and upset with the master."

"In the library her ladyship glared a Darcy, "Turn around and face me godson, I will speak with you and you will answer me."

" What is it we are to speak of,", he sneered .

"I I want to know what happened at Rosings Park, she replied, I know that being in the company of Lady Catherine is trying, but nothing, not even you Aunt is so bad that you should be in such a foul mood this long. Don" try to tell me nothing happened, I know you too well to believe that."

"There is nothing to tell, I assure you," he replied angrily.

"Then it must be as Georgianna fears, that business as Ramsgate. her ladyship mused. Good Lord Fitzwilliam, if you wish to punish some one for that take your anger out on Wickham, not your poor dear Georgianna. If you continue to treat her as you have I shall be forced to move her in with us until you return to being her brother and not her judge."

Darcy spun around to face her ladyship.

"Georgianna, Ramsgate, Wickham, how did you find out about that?" he stammered.

"I place no blame on Georgie for that, why would she think I am angry with her especially over that."

" You have bee angry and silent since your return from Rosings, Lady Sophie replied. One afternoon she opened the door to the library to try to get you to talk to her and she heard you growl Wickham followed by a few words she could not repeat to me. She fled to her room, where she stayed for three day in fear. I would imagine you did not even notice."

"She came to me this morning and before she was there five minutes she collapsed in tears and cried for over an hour before she could get control enough to tell me about Wickham (how I despise that man) and Mrs Young's betrayal."

"It is nothing for you to concern yourself about. Georgiana will be well," he said coldly.

"Fitzwilliam Darcy, Lady Sophia snapped, never would I think you would be so cold to you dear sweet sister.'

You spend too much time with the Bingley sisters, you are becoming as arrogant and conceited as they are, but to coldly express such disdain for Georgianna's feeling is insupportable, I am ashamed to call you my godson."

Darcy turned to stare at her ladyship before he stumbled to a chair where he put his elbows on his knees and ran hius fingers through his hair .

,"Arrogant and conceited with a selfish disdain for others, he choked, that is what she said of me."

"Dear God, Elizabeth, how right you were. how wrong have been,, instead of trying to correct my faults I have become even worse. You said I was vain and conceited, but I dismissed your words and blamed you for thinking I was not without fault.

"Elizabeth, who is Elizabeth, when and why did she say these things to you. I cannot imagine any woman speaking thus to you, to Fitzwilliam Darcy."

"Darcy explain this to me, I will not leave until you have told me all."

Darcy sat for some minutes a haunted look on his face.

Rising he started to walk around rhe room for a short while before he faced his godmother, who was sitting there looking bewildered.

"She is Elizabeth Bennet who I met in Herdfordshire last year when I went with Bingley to get away from town as Mrs Anesley thought is best if Georgianna and I were apart for a while"

"I have never met anyone like her, he smiled, she was impertinent and even one might say disrespectful to me. She argued with me at every turn, bested me at cards and even chess with a relish. This young woman mad no stupid mistakes in aany game to let me win. She played to be the victor and relished every moment of it.

"I knew I was thinking too much about her so I was glad when we came to town. I thought I .could dismiss her from my mind once I was among my friends in town."

"How wrong I was. Every time I was in a conversation I found myself thinking how she would act and what she would do. When someone played or sang I found myself comparing her to them. She does not have the fingering as fine as others but she plays and sings for the pleasure of it and she has the voice of an angel.

"She is witty and intelligent and can make one smile with the raise of an eyebrow, and her eyes she has the most beautiful eyes I have ever beheld. They are amethyst with long thick black lashes. I can get lost in them."

"When we arrived at Rosings she was there visiting her best friend who is married to Lady Debourge's odious clergyman.. I saw her every day and walked with her many of them.. She had no fear of my Aunt Catherine and upset her poor toady of a cousin, who is Mr Collins her ladyships pastor when she expressed opinions which did not agree with what Lady Catherine."

"After a fortnight I knew that Fitzwillian and I must return to town as he had to join his regiment."

She did not accompany the Collins' one because Mrs Collins said she had a headache.

"As soon as I could manage it I slipped, away and went to the parsonage where I asked her to marry me."

Darcy leaned back in his chair to stare at the ceiling before he continued on. "She refused me in no uncertain terms. I of course demanded to know why she had refused such an offer."

Rising he gave a twisted grin to Sophia. "She berated me for stopping Bingley's proposal to her sister."

"One moment Darcy, Sophia interrupted, you stopped Bingley from asking for her sister’s hand."

"Why, what business is it of yours."

"She has no fortune, her father's estate is entailed to Mr Collins. she has no social standing. I thought she was unsuitable."

"Unsuitable Lady Sophia unsuitable. Her father is a gentleman with a comfortable income I would imagine. It would seem to me that she is above the Bingleys. What does Bingley need of a rich wife? If he loves her why should her not marry her. I see Bingley’s sisters hand in this. Caroline especially. She is determined to marry her brother to Georgianna. She is sure that that is all it would take for you to marry her."

"Badly done Darcy

"I can assure you that that will never happen. I cannot abide the woman any more." Darcy snorted.

"I could see no special feelings for him in her actions , She is pleasant to everyone but seemed to show no special feeling for him. It seems I was wrong there too. Miss Elizabeth told me of her pain at Bingley's desertion.

"I would imagine she might be like you and does not let her feelings show. Darcy, Darcy, you have acted badly indeed. Would anyone have known of your feelings for her sister"

Darcy stared at her ladyship. "I never gave a thought to anything like that," he sighed.

"That was not all that made her despise me. Wickham is stationed at Meryton, the town near her home. He of course gave her his sad tale of how I abused him and denied him his just due from my father. She was appalled."

I cannot blame the people there for believing him. He was, as always charming ro all while I stalked around with my nose in the air looking down on one and all."

"How I regret the first night I met them. I refused to dance with her when her mother hinted broadly that she would be a fine partner. I turned on my heel and walked off without a word." My lovely Elizabeth however laughed at me and my pretensions and enjoyed making sport of me to her friends."

Even my proposal was arrogant, I thought she would be so honored to be asked to marry the great Fitzwilliam Darcy that I told her how far I would stoop to marry her, how such a marriage went against everything I believed or felt. What an embarrassment her family was, how uncouth they are.." Badly done all right."

"Oh Fitzwilliam, Fitzwilliam, what were you thinking. No self respecting woman would say yes to such a proposal. Well Caroline Bingley but she has no self respect when it comes to a proposal from the Master of Pemberley."

"I know now that I am unworthy of her, he sighed, she is not impressed by money or social position. She will only marry a man she can love and respect. I hope that I have redeemed myself some little bit with the letter I wrote her explaining my reasons for interfering between Miss Jane and Bingley and informing her of the truth of Wickhams stories. I had to tell her about Georgianna, but I know she is to be trusted not to tell anyone else. She is a lady of honor."

I can undo one of my mistakes though. I can get Bingley back to Netherfield, back to the woman he loves and hope that she still loves him enough to forgive him and marry him. He has been so sad since we returned to town, he still loves her and she is perfect for him."

"Bennet, Bennett, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, Lady Sophia mused. I met Jane and Elizabeth Bennet a few months ago. They were staying with their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner here in town. They helped with our packages for the Society for the Poor. Such lovely girls and so willing to help those in need."

"Give me some time Darcy, I will think of a way to get both girls back to town where you and Bingley can both plead your cases."

" Now come with me my boy you must talk to your sister Darcy, Tell her all about your Elizabeth. Nothing will make her feel better than that, though she might express some concern about her refusal of your hand.

II

Posted on 2010-03-22

"You know Fitzwilliam, that even if you cannot secure the hand of your Elizabeth you must marry. Pemberley must have an heir," Lady Sophia said softly.

"No, he replied, “I could never take anyone else to wife, I could take no one else to my bed. I would never be able to touch her without thinking of my one true love. I would come to despise her and she me. It would be a miserable way to live"

"No your ladyship, Georgianna will have to give Pemberley an heir.

Sophia heaved a deep sigh, "You Darcy men are all alike, you love one woman in your life and will have none other. It was so with your father, your grandfather and all other Darcy men I have heard of. "

"Your father would have non but Anne, no matter how hard Catherine tried to come between them. your grandfather was insistent about marrying your grandmother, no matter that is mother disapproved."

"I tell you Fitzwilliam I--

Before she could finish her sentence a very agitated butler announced more loudly than needed "Miss Bingley to see Miss Georgianna, sir"

Caroline Bingley swept into the room saying, "Mr Darcy I have not seen you for too long, I have come to see---

"Lady St John, what do you do her so early in the day."

"I do not have to account to you Miss Bingley if I choose to call on my godson, no matter what the time," Sophia answered, coldly.

Miss Bingley turned back to Darcy cooing, "I have come call on our dear Georgianna, she has seemed out of sorts of late and I thought she would like to have some one to talk to, to confide in, some one she knows she can trust."

"I feel that we have become as close as sisters and she can ask me for advice at any time on anything she might be in need of my wisdom."

"I thought that perhaps she would like to come and stay with us for a few days. Charles is back in town and I know how much they enjoy each others company."

'Georgianna know that she can confide in her brother, me or her Aunt Fitzwilliam, Sophia said coldly, we are family after all."

"I thought she would be more at ease with a younger woman, Caroline smirked, someone closer to her age, I feel that we are as close as sisters and you know how sisters like to talk to one another.

"Georgianna is not here," Darcy stammered.

"But where is she, Caroline cried, I would think she would have let me know where she might be, we are so close it is not like her to tell me all."

"It would seem that if Georgie wanted you to know where she is she would have told you before she dreamed of leaving," Sophia snorted.

"You must tell me where she is, Mr Darcy, I must go to her if she is troubled," Caroline begged

Lady Sophia had had about enough, "Since you are so close I am sure she will let you know when she returns, "

"Returns, Caroline gasped, returns. Where has she gone, sir."

"Oh, Pemberley, of course, she always feels better for a visit to Pemberley, as do you Mr Darcy.

"Where she is nothing to you, Sophia snapped, it is between her and her brother."

Turning to Darcy she said, we were just leaving when we were interrupted Fitzwilliam. I would suggest that you go to take care of your business and I will finish my calls."

"Good day to you Miss Bingley."

"Yes, you are as always quite right, your ladyship. "Darcy said.

"I must beg you to excuse me Miss Bingley but I really do have important business to attend to."

"Of course Mr Darcy, Caroline cooed, glaring at Lady Sophia, I would never think of detaining you, I know how busy you are maintaining the
Darcy estates while taking care of our dear Georgianna."

She rose and swept from the room, followed by her ladyship to make sure she really left.

Sophia know how much Caroline like to hide behind doors and eavesdrop.

She was glad she did because she heard Caroline chortle "Pemberley, of course that is where she is, you let the secret out Sophia, you have told me all I need to know."

Lady Sophia returned to Darcy laughing, " She really thinks we have secreted Georgie away to Pemberley, I would wager she and the Hursts will be off to Derbyshire with all due speed."

"Good God, Darcy cried, I wager you are right. I must send an express to Mrs Reynolds warning her of the possibility. I must tell her to let no one enter Pemberley house until I tell her."

"Curse that woman, how she and Charles could be remotely related is beyond understanding."

"Sophia laughed, she hopes to impress you with her concern for Georgianna, she hopes it will endear her to you and make you look on her as the best woman to be Mistress of Pemberley and all the Darcy estate. That is why she brings up the thought that they are like sisters"

Darcy snorted, "That day will never come, I detest the woman more each time see her.

Caroline rushed into the Hurst sitting room where her sister was entertaining a caller.

"Louisa, Louisa, I must speak to you on a matter of great importance, where is Mr Hurst, he must attend to me too."

Louisa's guest departed with all due speed, she did not care for Caroline Bingley when she was calm, but when she was in such a state as now she could be most uncivil.

"Caroline calm yourself, Mr Hurst has gone to his club, now sit down and tell me what has you in such a state."

"Lady St John, Caroline snapped, how I do despise that woman, I would like to slap her face."

"Lady St. John, Lousia asked, what has she to do with anything. I thought you went to call on Gerogiannia."

"I did, Caroline growled. She was not there again. That woman has made Mr Darcy send his poor sister to Pemberley to keep her from confiding in me about what is troubling my Mr Darcy."

" She let the cat out of the bag though sister, she tried to keep Mr Darcy from telling me anything. I know her tricks though and I will not be gainsaid. We must go to Pemberley with all haste, Louisa, we must leave as soon as may be. You will send a note to Hurst and tell him to return home at once. We must leave tomorrow if at all possible, but the next day for certain. Make haste, make haste sister, and do not let Mr Hurst talk you out of this. I need you now Louisa as never before. "

"I shall go home now and make all the arrangements. I must have Ellen pack everything I will need. I must make Charles go with us. This is a great opportunity sister and we must make the moist of it. We must make sure that the two of them come back to town engaged."

"Caroline, are you sure, I should hate to make such a long journey for naught.” Louisa sighed.

"Of course I am sure Caroline snapped, why else would she discourage me from going to Derbyshire."

Charles Bingley had no intention of going on a wild goose chase as he told his sister and refused her pleas and her tantrums. He was not going to Derbyshire.

Mr Hurst on the other hand was no match for the sisters and fund himself on a three day trip to Derbyshire.

As they pulled up to the gate at Pemberley they were told that no one was permitted to enter.

Caroline stepped out oif he carriage her eyes ablaze.

"Do you know who I am she snapped. Do you know who the people are who accompany me."

"Of course Miss Bingley, he stammered, but I have orders not to let anyone in."

"Get Mrs Reynolds or Carstairs down her at once, Caroline shoiuted. I will have Mr Darcy dismiss you if you do not do as I say"

The poor gatekeeper sent the boy who was there with him to the house on the run.

In a few moments Mrs Reynolds and Carstairs walked to the gate.

Miss Bingley glared at them and demanded that they let her and the Hursts in at once.

Mrs Reynolds crossed her arms across her chest and said coldly, "No one but the family is allowed in this house when we are doing the annual inventory, you will have to return to town, Miss Bingley."

I demand to see Miss Georgianna," Caroline snapped.

Mrs Reynolds looking puzzled replied that none of the family was at home.

"I know she is here, Caroline shouted. You are all trying to keep her from me. I demand entry to this house at once. I am tired and in need of refreshment and a bed."

\"My wife does not lie, Miss Bingley, Carstairs replied, I must ask you to leave now, or do I have to send for the constable."
I am sure you will find rooms in the Inn in town."

"Rooms at the inn in Lambton, Caroline growled, rooms at the inn,. This is an abomination.

"Get into the carriage Caroline. I need a cup of tea and if I must get it at the Red Lion then so it shall be," Louisa said quietly.

As they drove off. Caroline stuck her head out the window and shouted, "I shall have you all sacked for this. Mr Darcy will not stand for such insolence to his best friends"

"Well Caro, so much for your chance to act as Mistress of Pemberley, Mr Hurst laughed, the Red Lion has a fine pub though."

III

Posted on 2010-04-12

While Caroline was making haste to get Louisa and Hearst ready and on the road at first light Darcy has gone to the Saint John's to talk to Georgianna and tell her everything that happened at Rosings Park.

Georgianna is at first outraged to think that Elizabeth would refuse to marry her brother. Darcy tells her how arrogant and superior he acted and how he was downright uncivil. When he tells her that he refused to dance with Elizabeth and said loudly enough for her to hear that he found her passable but not good enough for him , Georgianna cannot believe it.

"Poor Miss Bennet, she cried, what did she do brother, did she cry and run to her mother."

"Indeed not, Darcy laughed, she found me amusing and went to her friend where she proceeded to make sport of the great Mr Darcy, they all had a great laugh at my expense."

Georgianna giggled, good for her, you really deserved it brother."

"No one knows that better than I, he sighed and went on to tell her everything down to his dreadful proposal and her irate refusal.

"Oh my, brother, is there not some way you can make amends, could you not tell her that you are sorry."

"I fear not Georgie, she despises me, and with good reason. I insulted her and her family in every way. I have subjected her sister to the pain of heartbreak. Perhaps it is best that this has happened to me. I have learned a good lesson. It is only right that I should suffer as much as Bingley and Miss Bennet.

"I was such a fool, Georgie, Miss Bennett Is exactly the woman who should be Bingley's wife. She is the sweetest person I have ever met. She can find no fault in anyone and naught but good to say of others."

"She certainly sounds different from Mr Bingley's sisters , Georgie murmured softly.

"Indeed sister as different as sunshine and storm." Darcy agreed.

Lady Sophia entered with the maid and a tea tray.. "You two have been at this for such a long time I thought you might like some tea." she said with a smile.

"Thank you your ladyship, we have said all that needs to be said I think, Georgianna answered, haven't we Fitzwilliam. and tea sounds so good.

After they had a merry tea the Darcy's went home. Lady Sophia, however still had not thought of a way to get Lizzie and her godson together but she had a few ideas.

Three days later he had a letter from Mrs Reynolds informing of the arrival if the Hurst's and Miss Bingley and filled him in on her tirade and threats.

"Bloody woman, Darcy growled does she have no sense at all.

Three days later his butler brought him a letter from and old friend who he hadn't seen in five years while he fulfilled his military obligations, including the war with Boney. Darcy knew that when he had come home after the fighting and resigned his commission and gone into the church.
His father was so angry at his actions that he had disowned him .

Darcy thought he would read Michael's letter first, it would satisfy his questions about when he had suddenly left the military and become a pastor.

Dear Darcy, he read. I hope that this letter is not to great a shock to you but I wanted to let you know that I am in London. My parish is in Cheapside. A very satisfying part of town filled with wonderful amiable people. There is one family of which I am especially fond. Their name is Gardiner. Such fine people, so intelligent and with a quick wit .Friends I can spend time with and have to listen to who is sleeping with who and who is about to lose their estate because of debts. Amiable and sensible people.

I thought you might be one of the few who would not shun me now that I am no longer Lord Farnsworth.

I think you will understand what my father cannot. Why I wished to leave the military behind me. I tired of war, with killing and seeing companions fall. Tired of nothing but death and despair. I want to spend the rest of my days giving people hope not pain.

I am at St Michael's Parrish if you should care to dredge up old times. Is that not a less that fitting name for the church I have been given

Yours, in faith
Mr Michael Farnsworth.

Darcy opened the letter from Mrs Reynolds with trepidation. Why had she sent an express" It read

Dear Mr Darcy,

The Hurst's and Miss Bingley did not leave Lambton the morning after their arrival as I thought they might. It seems that Mr Hurst found the food and the accommodations to his liking and the company at the pub even more so.

.They stayed four days more with the sisters coming to Pemberley every day with the same result as the first day. Mr Walker had to stop bringing his grandson with him to the gate. Miss Bingley frightened the poor child nearly to death.

The last day Carstairs had the constable there to back us up and get rid of them for the last time I hope.

Miss Bingley was so incensed she threatened to have the king’s guard come to take care of a constable who would dare to threaten a lady of her consequence.

Mr Darcy she used words I would not tolerate from any of your staff. Mr Miller was only doing his duty but that did not stop her.

The entire town is in an uproar. The sisters have been abominable since the first day they stepped out of the carriage. Nothing was good enough for them. Not the food, the accommodations, the shops, but most of all not the people.

I thought I should send you an express so that you can be prepared for Miss Bingley's arrival she will be in a rage.

They are to leave in the morning so that you can be ready to see her at any time.

Your faithful servant
Mrs C Reynolds.

Darcy called Georgianna and told her pack a few things to go to stay with her aunt and uncle for a few days. He did not want her there when Miss Bingley arrived and arrive he knew she would in all haste.

He explained everything to his sister on the way to Matlock Manor. Georgianna was grateful for his thoughtfulness and expressed her gratitude effusively.

Leaving Georgie with her Aunt Rachel after explaining things he went off to the saint John's to warn his godmother.

Lady Sophia and Sir John laughed gleefully at the picture of Caroline be sent on her way by a constable.

Lord John shook his head, "I swear, that woman becomes more and more like Lady Debourg, he chuckled, she even begins to look more like her all the time."

Lady Sophia clapped her hands, I believe you are right, my love, she chortled.

"Oh my dear just had a thought, she giggled, I know the source of the Bingley's wealth. Lady Catherine and Mrs Bingley met when their girls were just babes. Mrs Bingleys child was quiet and a little sickly while Lady Catherine had a daughter who screamed and cried without stop. Catherine talked them into trading girls, for a price. Lady Catherine went home with a sweet amiable daughter while Mrs Bingley took home a screaming banshee of a child.

The Bingley's had enough money to expand their carriage business which grew to be the most successful in the country.

Darcy and Sir John stared at her in amazement for a moment before bursting into uproarious laughter..

'Ah my dearest Sophia, is it any wonder that I love you so, his lordship laughed.

Sophia giggled, "It something to think about though, don't you think."

IV

Posted on 2010-04-28

Darcy sat reading a book when the butler announced," Miss Bingley, sir."

"You have been most hard to find at home, sir, she cooed, I have come to call thrice, only to find no one at home. I have yet to see dear Georgiana;. Is she home today?"

"Georgie is still with her Aunt and Uncle Matlock, he replied. She is loath to leave the new Fitzwilliam heir. Georgiana does love babies."

"Perhaps it is better that she not be here, Caroline said as she leaned toward Darcy. What I have to discuss is I believe not for her ears."

Darcy stared at her, what could she be thinking of.

She settled back in her chair saying, “I understand that you have been visiting Mr Farnsworth and that you have even had him here for tea. Do you think that wise?"

"Michael is an old and dear friend, Darcy answered. why should I not visit him and welcome him to my home."

"Surely you know that he resigned his commission with the militia after such a distinguished career and went into the ministry. He even forfeited his title to his brother, and was disinherited by his father, You must know that none of our circle will ever see him again. He is lost to society forever."

"He will not be deserted by me, Darcy replied, I must say I admire him for sticking to his principles, he will always be welcome by Georgiana and I."

"Dear Mr Darcy, you must see the folly in exposing Georgiana to such a man, Caroline gasped, it could do her great damage when she comes, out."

"Think about her, sir, I beg you, the man must be mad."

"Is that all you had to discuss with me, Madam, Darcy said coldly., the subject is closed."

Caroline realized that she had crossed the line and made Darcy angry so she was quick to change the subject.

"Indeed it is not all that I have to say to you. I wish to tell you of the shameful way we were treated when we went to Derbyshire."

"We were refused entry to Pemberley and forced to stay at the inn in Lambton. I have never been so humiliated in my life. Mrs Renyolds and Carstairs were most uncivil. I would not stand for any servant of mine treating my best friends in such a way."

"I must insist that you admonish them at once and sack that dreadful gatekeeper."

"They were only doing their duty, Darcy told her, no one is allowed to enter Pemberley when it is inventory time. There is so much to do that we do not want any distractions until it is done. I cannot have the maids and Mrs Reynolds running to take care of guests between their counting. I myself have stayed at the inn when an emergency arose at one of the farms and I was called home by my steward."

"Why did you go to Pemberley at all?"

"Surely you knew that the family was from there."

"Lady Sophia said that you would let Georgiana know that I wished to see her when she returned home. I of course assumed that she had gone to Derbyshire. She has been out of sorts of late and I know that she finds peace in that beautiful place, and who would not."

"She has been awaiting the birth of the Matlock heir, Darcy laughed, it kept her most distracted."

I am sorry that your long trip was for naught, but you should not assume, you should have asked if she had gone to Derbyshire."

"How long did you stay, I understand from Mrs Reynolds that is was a few days."

"Indeed, four long days; that fool Hurst decided he liked the accomadations and the company and refused to come back to town."

"I cannot see what he found to enjoy. I thought the inn was dreadful, the food so far below my standards and the people in the town most uncivil."

"Well, I am glad to hear that someone got some enjoyment from the trip," It was hard for Darcy to keep from laughing at the idea of what had happened between the three of them during their stay in Lambton.

"I am sorry Miss Bingley but I have an appointment and I must leave now," Darcy rose.

"One more thing I must have you know, Caroline stood. Are you aware that Carstairs actually called the constable on us. I hope you will take care of that matter with him and Mrs Reynolds."

"Indeed, I shall look into it I assure you, Miss Bingley," Darcy said as he bowed to her and walked to the door.

Caroline was most vexed, she had thought that Mr Darcy would be outraged at her treatment by his servants, instead he seemed to admonish her for going to Pemberley without his permission. He had even become angry when she tried to warn him of the consequences of keeping a friendship with Michael Farnsworth. This was not what she had planned to happen when she entered Darcy House.

Lady Sophia smiled at her husband, “My dear we shall have a dinner for those who gave their time and goods and worked so hard to get the packages out to the poor. Perhaps we shall have a little dancing and some games."

"Sophia, dearest, you know how your godson dislikes dancing. I doubt that you will see him on the floor"

Sophia laughed, "I can assure you, my love that Darcy will be willing to do whatever Miss Elizabeth Bennet wishes."

She kissed the top of his head saying, "Now I must go to call on Madalaine Gardiner, we must get the two eldest Miss Bennet to town."

V

Posted on 2010-05-22

Lady Sophia smiled at her housekeeper, Ahh Mrs Wilson never have I been so happy to be home."

"Did your trip to Herdfordshire not go well, maam, Mrs Wilson asked, Did not the two young ladies return with you. I know how much you and Mrs Gardiner were looking forward to their visit."

"Oh, yes they are here in town; but such an ordeal to get them here. That those two wonderful girls came from that home is beyond belief.".

"Thank God I had cousin Samantha to stay with, for I should have strangled the mother and the youngest daughter within two days if I had been staying at the Bennet home. The woman is a complete fool and the girl is a wild animal."

"Poor, dear Madeline even she had to get away after a fortnight and came to stay at Hamilton House with me."

"Please do not ask me more, I do not wish to even think about it right now."

"Very well your ladyship you sit down here and I will have some nice tea brought up, that will make you feel much better." Mrs Wilson smiled at her mistress and left the room.

Lady Sophia sighed and leaned back in her chair. She had to think of some way to get Darcy and Miss Elizabeth together. She couldn't have her party until her husband returned and that would be at least a month. She had planned to be in Herdfordshire for at least a month but they had to escape Mrs Bennet and her three youngest daughters.

Madalaine had become so disgusted with them that she moved out of the house. That availed them little though because the woman thought that they would be, hurt if she did not see them often, so she started coming to the Hamilton's. Not only did she bring the three girls but her vulgar, uncivil sister. Mrs Bennet was bad enough but the sister was so uncouth as to ask the price of everything she saw.

Madelaine became so embarrassed and upset that she had gone to her brother in law to have a talk with him and get him to let the girls come to town with them.

Sophia didn't know what she said to him or if it was what she herself had said to him in a fit of anger.

He had come into the garden where she went to get away from the chaos of the house. "Well your ladyship, he said , I have a feeling that you do not think much of me as a father."

"You are quite right, sir, she replied, I do think you lacking as a father, but even more so as a man. I had thought that you had a fondness for your two oldest daughters, but I was mistaken. I see before me a male who lets a 15 year old child dictate what her sisters can and cannot do. ."

"What I find even more shocking is that you enjoy their pain and humiliation, you even encourage Lydia in her taunting of them and her letting them know that if she is not invited to town no one is."

Mr Bennet stared at her for a moment, then turned on his hell and returned to the house.

When she got back to the house he looked at her and turning to the maid said, "Sally you may prepare Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth's trunks they shall be going to town with their Aunt Gardiner and her ladyship.

"No, no, Lydia screamed, you said that they could not go. If I cannot go neither can they, Mama has promised."

"Perhaps it would be so if you had not enjoyed their disappointment so much. You have taunted them at every turn and I have decided that they shall go, even if it is to get away from you."

"Mr Bennet, this cannot be, Mrs Bennet wailed, you agreed that if all the girls were not to go no one would. "

"Oh my poor nerves, you have condemned me to death, Mr Bennet, my heart palpitates and my head is beginning to ache, My hands tremble and my knees become weak."

"My poor Mrs Bennet, Sophia said, you must go to your room at once, Help your Mother Kitty. Mrs Hill will send up some tea for your Mrs Bennet

"We will send a note to the Lucas's telling the that you are too ill to attend their party tonight. I am sure that since Lydia is your favorite that you will want her near you. "

Madelaine and I will take the other girls for a short time. It would not do for none of the Bennets to attend. Do you not agree Mr Bennet."

"Indeed Mrs Bennet , you must stay in bed until the morrow at least."

"But Mr Bennet I will be well if you just say that all my girls must go to town or none at all.

"My dear Mrs Bennet I cannot say who her ladyship must invite into her home. Lizzie and Jane did the work and they shall reap the rewards."

Mrs Bennet had gone wailing to her room, taking her three youngest daughters with her, Mary promising that she would rather stay at home with her mother and her book .

Mrs Gardiner sat down beside her brother in law and patting his arm said, "Perhaps her ladyship is right, if Fanny's nerves were to keep her home and away from parties and teas she loves so much she would have far less of them.

They had returned to town two days later, a fortnight earlier than planned but they thought it best to get away with due haste.

The next day Sophia went to visit the Darcy's only to find her godson was not at home and Georgianna on pins and needles, fearing that the Bingley sister would arrive at any moment.

"Miss Bingley comes almost every day she sighed, Mrs Hurst is not always with her but she usually comes too. Miss Bingley seems angry when Fitzwilliam is not here. She thinks he spends too much time with Mr Farnsworth and tries to get me to discourage the friendship. "

"I cannot do that, I like Mr Farnsworth, he is so kind, but he seems sad. Fitzwilliam says he is grieving over his brothers death in France."

"Fitzwilliam says that there is a beautiful park in Cheapside where he likes to go to ride and walk. He says it is much more peaceful than the parks the ton likes. The people go there to enjoy themselves and le the children play. He has promised to take me when I do not have lessons."

"Get your things and we shall go shopping, Sophia laughed, we shall get away before the sisters come."

Georgia laughed and hurried to get her coat and bonnet and to ask Mrs Ainsley to come along so that she did not have to bear the wrath of Caroline Bingley.

Lady Sophia thought that she had the perfect way to get Lizzie and Darcy together. Now all she had to do was to get things started. She knew that the girls often took the Gardiner children to the Cheapside park and she found out what time Darcy usually went, now all she had to do was get them together.

She started going to the park with the girls saying that since she had no children she enjoyed spending time with the Gardiner children.

On the third day she recognized Darcy's horse and her heart skipped a beat. Now how to find him.

She deliberately dallied behind with Johnathan, playing with a ball while the rest went ahead. A few minutes later she thought she saw Darcy, She could only see his hat as he moved down the path. There was a row of high bushes between the paths and he was the only man she knew who was tall enough that his hat would show over the bushes.

Taking Johnathan's ball she gave it a mighty heave. Her aim was true and the ball hit with a thwack, sending the hat flying, followed by a few choice words by the owner.

"Oh dear she thought, I do hope that is Fitzwilliam.

Johnathan, stared at her wide eyed'.

"I am so sorry Johnathan, she cried, you must hurry across before the man leaves with you ball. I shall be there as soon as I can, but you can get there quicker than me.

While Lady Sophia hurried to find her way across Johnathan plowed right through the bushes.

He came out on the other side brushing off the leaves and twigs to find a very irate gentleman standing there holding his ball in one hand and a slightly dented hat in the other.

"I am so sorry, Sir, he bowed, I hope your hat is not damaged too badly. If it is I am sure my father will get you a new one and make me pay for it out of my allowance.

"And who may I ask are you, Darcy said, trying to sound fierce for the young man standing there trying to look dignified but looked more scared.

Pulling himself up to his full height he answered "I am Johnathan Gardiner, and if you please sir, what is your name."

Darcy smiled and replied, "I am Mr Darcy."

Johnathan's eyes widened, "Are you the Mr Darcy who hates our Lizzie?" You really must not hate her , Sir, she is sorry for what she said to you. She says that she knows now that you are the best man she has ever met, but it is too late now, you will always hate her for wha she said to you. Please do not hate her, Sir, she is so kind to us. She reads to us and plays games with us and helps me with my sums.

"I can assure you that I do not hate your cousin, Darcy smiled putting his hand on Johnathan's shoulder

"How do you know these things, I am sure she did not tell you."

"I heard her tell my parents, she is so sad that you hate her," Johnathan replied

"I do now hate your cousin, I am glad she said those things to me, she had every right to say them. I was not very nice to your cousins and I am very sorry for that."

"Johnathan beamed, "You do not hate Lizzie, I will tell her, she will be very glad to hear it."

"Darcy put his hand on Johnathan's shoulder, "No, he said. I will tell her. You must not let her know that you told me or anyone."

"But why, Johnathan asked, why should I not be the one to tell her."

"Because a gentleman does not listen in on a ladies conversation, Johnathan, and if he happens by chance to hear a private conversation he never repeats it anyone else, '

It would make your Lizzie very sad to think that you would repeat her words, especially to a stranger, she would fear she cannot trust you. We cannot have that can we."

"Oh no sir," Johnathan stared at Darcy, tears forming in his big blue eyes.

"Good, Darcy smiled, we will shake hands on that as gentlemen, and I shall tell her when the time is right, agreed."

Johnathan stood as tall as he could and shook the hand Darcy offered.

Lady Sophia, hurried up to the two of them. "I am so sorry about your hat, Mr Darcy, she laughed. I am sure though that Mr Gardiner, since he is a young gentleman, did not tell you that it was not he who threw the ball."

"Come Johnathan we must find your cousins and you brother and sisters, they should not be far off. Would you join us Mr Darcy"

"I would indeed, he replied." (Darcy had played with his godmother in his childhood so he knew at once that it was not a chance toss that had sent his hat flying, he knew at once that she had done it deliberatley to stop him from leaving.

They had not gone far when the met the rest of Sophia's party.

"Why Mr Darcy, what a surprise to see you here, we are delighted, Miss Jane cried. I would like for you to meet our cousins Rebecca, Sarah and Richard. I see you have met Johnathan."

"What are you doing here, Elizabeth asked, I didn't think you knew anyone in Cheapside."

"I am here to see and old and dear friend Mr Farnsworth," Darcy replied with a smile.

"He is our Pastor," Sarah cried.

"Indeed he is Darcy, answered, he tells me he enjoys your family."

"Do you come here often, he asked. it is a very pleasent park."

"We like to bring the children here every afternoon when the weather permits," Elizabeth replied

"I am sorry I did meet up with you earlier, Darcy said, but I must go and pick up my sister at my Uncles, I am so glad that I was here today and got a chance to renew our acquaintance. I hope you will visit us at Darcy house, Lady Saint John will be glad to bring you anytime."
\
With a bow he left them with a spring in his step that had not been there before.

Elizabeth stood and watch him leave. What does this mean, she thought, he must not hate me as I thought.

Sophia turned back up the path so that no one could see the smile on her face.

Charge VI

Posted on 2010-06-23

Darcy went to Bingley's favorite club as soon as he left the park. Asking Bingley to come with him to a private room he sat down and proceeded to confess to him everything about his coming between him and Jane Bennet.

Bingley was so angry he shouted at his friend, something he had never done before.

Darcy was shocked, Charles never lost his temper, he was the most mild mannered person of his acquaintance.

Bingley stomped toward the door vowing never to speak to Darcy again and to send Caroline to Wales to their Aunt Esmerelda.

"I am going to send a message to Herferdshire and have Netherfield prepared for me as soon as may be, he growled, you will not be welcome there ever again."

As he got to the door Darcy said, "She is in town now, I saw her and Miss Elizabeth in the park in Cheapside just an hour ago. They take their neices and nephews there every day. They will be there tomorrow, if the weather holds. I thought we might go tomorrow if the day is as fine as today. I am so sorry Bingley, It was completely wrong of me to come between you, she is perfect for you. I shall never forgive myself for putting two such wonderful people through months of pain and misery because of my arrogance and selfish disdain for the feelings of others."

"She loves you as much as you love her, Bingley. Miss Elizabeth was at Rosings Park visiting the Mrs Collins when FitzWilliam and I went to visit my Aunt Catherine. She told me how her sister’s heart was broken because she loved you and felt that you had been toying with her. "

She gave me a proper set down, Bingley. and told me a few things about myself that no one had ever had the nerve to do before. She made me think about myself and I did not like what I saw. She was right I was vain, arrogant and selfish with no thought to the feelings of others. She was right I certainly had not been acting like a gentleman."

"She said those things to YOU, Bingley gasped, I can scarce believe it, but knowing Miss Elizabeth I must believe."

"What time do we go tomorrow, Darce, I can scarcely wait, I shall see my angel again, this time I will not let her go, if she will have me now."

"Caroline you mean, Bingley grinned, I know how much time she spends at Darcy house."

"Hmmm perhaps we should stay here tonight, Darcy mused, that way we can be sure we can leave when we want without running into anyone."

Bingley agreed saying, "I think it might be wise to leave by the back doo, just to be safe."

Laughing they left the room and went to have some tea and something to eat. They would not leave until it was time to go to Cheapside.

Darcy sent a note to Georgianna telling her to go to the Fitzwilliams or the Saint Johns so that she would not have to receive callers without him.

The day dawned bright and shiny and Johnathon was eager to go to the park, “When will we go he asked Jane hopping from one foot to the other in his eagerness.

Jane laughed at him, "We will go at the same time as usual."

Johnathan wanted to get there, he hoped that Mr Darcy would be there. He wanted him to tell Lizzie that he liked her so that she would be happy again.

As they entered the park he skipped up to Elizabeth, "Do you think Mr Darcy will be here today, he asked, I liked him, I thought he was very kind."

"I doubt it dear, Lizzie smiled, he was here yesterday only because he had been visiting Mr Farnsworth."

Johnathan's face fell, he hoped his cousin was wrong, he very much wanted to see the gentleman again, he had treated him like a gentleman not a child.

The words were scarcely out of Lizzy's mouth when they came to the first bench inside the gate where Darcy and Bingley were sitting waiting for them.

As they rose to greet them Johnathan walked up to Darcy and with a bow said, "I am very glad to see you again sir."

Darcy returned the bow and with a grin answered " and I you sir."

Elizabeth laughed and soon the others joined in, while Johnathan grinned in pleasure.

"I have brought a friend Darcy smiled, I am sure you know him."

"Miss Bennet, I cannot tell you what a pleasure it is to see you, Bingley bowed to Jane, we have much to talk about ."

Taking her arm they started to walk while the others trailed behind.

VII

Posted on 2010-07-07

Bingley's heart gave a leap when he saw Jane. She was even lovelier than he remembered. He took her arm and started down the path saying, "Miss Bennet, if you please let us walk together, we have much to talk about."

As they walked he said, “Dearest Miss Bennet, Darcy has confessed all to me. Believe me if I had known you were here last winter I would have hastened to call on you."

"Jane looked down as she said, “I understand I am to wish you joy, Mr Darcy must be very happy to have his sister engaged to you."

"Engaged, Bingley stammered, to Georgianna, but she is a child, I think of her as my little sister. Whoever told you that Georgianna and I were seeing one another,"

Jane looked confused, But Miss Bingley said," she stopped and sat down on a bench. She didn't want to betray Caroline to her brother.

"I am quite sure I know who is behind that story, Bingley snorted. It was Caroline wasn't it?"

"Why didn't you call to let me know you were here, or write to let me know you were coming. I would have been at the Gardiners to meet you, even though I have not been introduced to them."

"But I did write two letters, and I came to call after I had been here a fortnight."

Taking her hand Bingley sat down beside her saying everything Miss Bennet, " I asked my sisters if they had any letters from you but they told me that they had heard nothing, even though Caroline had written to you. Tell me please, my love."

"When I came to call your sisters were going out but Miss Bingley said that my letters must have been lost for they never received them. She said you were out walking with Miss Darcy."

"After a fortnight Miss Bingley returned my call, she said that you knew that I was in town but were too busy courting Miss Darcy to have any time for me. She said she was so happy that she would be calling Miss Darcy sister."

"She stayed only a very short time for she was to have tea with you and your betrothed."

Bingley was so angry he turned red.

"I knew it, I knew she was up to something, he growled. After all her attempts to pair me with Georgie didn't work she started bringing all the girls with money and position that she knew and pushed them at me."

"I have been out of town most of the time these past few months. I was the only way I could get away from her manipulations. I have only been back for three days. She doesn't know that I am here, I have been staying at my club."

"Darcy came to me there and told me you were here and offered to bring me here, for which I shall be eternally grateful"

"I love you so much dearest Jane, I have wasted too much time. Even though you may not have any affection for me I beg you to be my wife. I know this is far too quick, but I have so miserable for so long loving you and missing you. How I have longed for your sweet smile and the sound of your voice."

Jane's eyes filled with tears.

"Oh dearest, I have made you unhappy, please forgive me. I thought only of myself and my desires, I do apologise most humbly"

"Oh no, Jane clasped his hand, I love you too Mr Bingley, I never thought to hear those words. You have made me so happy. "

"Isn't it sill how women cry when they are most happy, and I shall be pleased to be Mrs Bingley."

Bingley look around and seeing no one he lifted her chin and kissed her tenderly.

"How I have dreamed of doing that,” he grinned.

"And I too," she sighed.

Darcy and Lizzie s strolled slowly down the path to give Jane and Bingley time to settle things between them.

"This is your doing Mr Darcy, and I am most grateful to you. I know my sister will be her old self without any sadness in her heart, she does truly love your friend and has been so unhappy thinking he did not return her affection. From the way Mr Bingley brightened when he saw her I am sure he still loves her."

"It was the least I could do, he replied, I know how Bingley has been feeling these last few months. I hope all goes well for them., they deserve only the best."

"Miss Elizabeth, I" he started only to be interrupted by Johnathan.

"Is all going well Mr Darcy", he inquired with a big grin.

"Johnathan, of what are you speaking, is what going well, Elizabeth asked., where are your sisters and your brother. You were supposed to stay with them and help Mrs Donally."

Johnathan was disappointed. Had he spoken too soon, why didn't Mr Darcy tell Cousin Lizzie that he liked her. He just didn't understand grownups.

As he tried to figure this out he saw Cousin Jane and Mr Bingley coming toward the arm in arm, with bright smiles on their faces.

Bingley grinned at them, "You may wish us joy, he smiled at Jane, I have asked Miss Bennet to marry me and she has agreed, we shall be the happiest couple in the kingdom. I know this seems fast, but we have been too long apart."

Congratulations were given by all and the happy group walked out of the park to go to the Gardiners for tea.

Johnathan was very happy for his cousin but he still wanted Mr Darcy to make up with Lizzie so she could be happy too.

"We shall come to your aunt and uncles tomorrow to take you to the park, Bingley said we shall make a fine group."

Mr Darcy turned to Elizabeth saying, "With your permission I should like to bring my sister tomorrow, she wants to meet you so much."

"We would be delighted to have her," Elizabeth smiled.

As they rode off down the street she heard Bingley say, "Now I shall have to take care of my sister. Caroline has been spending far too much lately, perhaps she should be put on an allowance."

VIII

Posted on 2010-07-19

Charles Bingley sat at the writing desk in Darcy's library. He was writing a letter to his Aunt Esmeralda at Blackburn in Lancashire

Esmeralda was his father's sister, who had been appointed executor of his the Bingley estate because of his youth when his parents died. She had stayed on as co-executor after he came of age, as his father had put in his will.

Bingley loved her dearly but his sister did not. He knew that she often scolded them for spending to excess. Caroline especially incurred her wrath. Since their return from Herdfordshire she had stepped up her pursuit of Darcy, and bought more and more clothes and jewelry to impress him.

Charles had spent a great deal of time with her the past few months, to get away from Caroline and her manipulations.

She had mused about putting both his sisters on allowances.

Bingley grinned at the thought of Caroline being allowed to spend bu ten pounds a month.

He took up his pen and began to write very carefully so there would be no splotches or misspelled or incomplete words as he usually had because he wrote too quickly.

Dear Aunt,

I have been reunited with my dearest Jane, the only woman I could ever marry. I have asked for her hand and she has accepted me. I am the happiest man in England. She is an angel, Aunt as you shall find out soon, I promise.

I do not want Caroline or the Hursts to know until everything is settled. The only way I can think of to get them out of town in all haste is for you to threaten them with very small allowances as we discussed when I was there last month.

If you would write to them and tell them that they must come to you and stay for at least a month (preferably 6 weeks) to discuss the matter. Make certain to let Caroline know especially that you think she has been spending foolishly and she must learn to practice some restraint.

I have learned from my friend Darcy that my angel was here for two months last winter and that she wrote to tell me she was coming. She even called a fortnight after she arrived at her Aunt and Uncles. Caroline returned the call after three weeks and told her that I knew she was in town but was too busy courting Miss Darcy to be bothered to visit her. She told her that by the spring she would be calling Miss Darcy sister. Georgiana of all people. She is a child still and is much like a sister to me. When I asked if Miss Bennet had written they both told me there had been nothing from Herfordshire. I have found out that she wrote twice but Caroline told her they must have been lost.

I haven't seen either of my sisters since I left Lancashire.I am too angry now and would do something foolish. I don't want them to know because I know that they would try everything they could think of to prevent my marriage to my Jane. (Or anyone else who would not be what they want for me.) I know why Caro wants me to marry Miss Darcy . She seems to think that if that would happen she would soon after marry Darcy.

I could assure her that that would never happen. Darcy enjoys her company less and less since his return from Rosings Park at Easter time. She cannot see that, and continues to pursue him with all her might and main. He and Georgiana even leave Darcy house early in the mornings now to escape her visits.

I will tell you about their silly, stupid trip to Pemberley last month because Caroline thought Miss Darcy had gone ther for some reason. You will laugh when I tell you but I want to get this off in all haste, and it a long story.

I know if you send an express my sisters they will leave as soon as may be and I can enjoy my angle's company with out any interference from Caroline.

Please Aunt do this for me. My future happiness depends on it.

Your loving nephew,

Charles Bingley

Five days later Bingley was still taking refuge from his sisters at the Darcys or his club. He was in the Darcy reading room when he heard the strident voice of Caroline talking to Mr Darcy. Taking refuge in a priest hole in the corner of the room he heard her say to Darcy. "Where is my brother, you must know, I must speak to him at once. We have had a letter from our aunt in Lancashire demanding that we come to her or she will put us on a very stringent allowance.

" I see Charles' hand in this. I will speak to him. If he does not help me I will be forced to spend at least a month there. I would die of boredom and the company would be so far beneath us that I would not spend a day there that I would not go mad."

"Tell me where he is Mr Darcy, I beg of you. If you have any idea you must let me know."

"Is he back in town, Darcy asked, I thought you said he was going to Kent to visit Mr Knightly."

"Oh bother Mr Knightly, I know he is not there because I saw Mr Knightly yesterday and he knew nothing of Charles."

"Perhaps you can find him at one of his clubs, Miss Bingley, Darcy replied, have you tried them?"

"I shall have to try them again or perhaps you would do it for me, she cooed. I am sure they will tell you what they would not tell me."

"I am sorry, Darcy said. I'm afraid I have a full day Miss Bingley, as a matter of fact If I do not leave at once I shall be late at my solicter'

"Mr Farnsworth is waiting for you sir," Darcy's butler informed him.

"Tell Mrs Ainsley, Darcy answered, he is to take Georgie and her to Lady St John's for me, as my day is so full"

"Mr Darcy, Mr Darcy, Caroline trotted after him, I must speak to you about Mr Farnsworth, I really think it is unseemly for Miss Darcy to be seen with that man."

As I have said before Miss Bingley, Mr Farnsworth is a perfectly respectable man and a friend of mine. I am sure Georgiana is quite safe with him, Good day Miss Bingley," Darcy snapped as he went out the door and into his carriage.

Caroline turned to the housekeeper and snapped, “Tell Miss Darcy that I would speak with her."

"But she and Mrs Ainsley left just ahead of Mr Darcy, Mrs Harris replied, they were waiting for him and left before Mr Darcy was told Mr Farnsworth was here.

"Well I shall have to call on Lady St John, Caroline thought, even though I hate the idea. Someone must do something to stop this friendship before dear Georgiana's reputation is sullied by any association with a man who would forfeited his title and estates to become a clergyman."

Charles crept out of his hidey hole and wiped his brow. He would have to stay out of sight until he heard from his Aunt Esmeralda, he decided.

Fortunately Cheapside would be a safe place. He knew that neither of his sisters would be caught there at any cost.

"My dearest Jane, he grinned, the safest place for me is with you, how delightful."

Caroline was escorted to Lady St John's drawing room by the housekeeper

"Why Miss Bingley, what do you here," Georgiana gasped

"Indeed, Miss Bingley, Sophia, said coolly, I don't recall you ever calling here before."

"I have come on Georgianna's behalf, Caroline replied, you must agree that it is most unsuitable for her to be seen wih Mr Michael Farnsworth. I am sure that you know that he is being shunned by all the best people. Georgianna will be sullied by this friendship that her brother insists on keeping. Can you imagine what will happen when she comes out next spring? Why, no one will want to seek her company."

"She is such a dear girl and I could not stand to see her suffer such pain."

"Not everyone shuns Mr Farnsworth, Lady Sophia said coldly, my husband and I certainly will not shun a man of such high principles, A man who no longer wants to kill and maim, who instead wishes to help others. Lord John and I are very pleased to call him friend. We admire him greatly."

'This is none of you business, Miss Bingley and I would advise you to be very careful who you speak to of Mr Farnsworth. I would advise you not to approach the Fitzwilliam's on the matter or their son, the Colonel. They support him as we do."

"But," Caroline tried to go on.

"There are no buts here, Sophia snapped, the subject is closed."

"But I like Mr Farnsworth, Georgiana injected, he is so kind, and so sad for his brother's death in France."

"Oh dearest Georgiana, you are too young to understand the consequences of what he has done, it is an abomination," Caroline took her hand, you must listen to me dear, you must--"

"Enough, Miss Bingley, as I said the subject is closed. If you cannot understand that, I must ask you to go, Sophia snapped.

"Very well, as you wish," Caroline said haughtily as she swept from the room.

"Horrid, horrid woman, what does she know, Sophia clenched her fists in anger, you must not listen to her Georgie, she is a fool of the highest water."

"I shall listen to Fitzwilliam, Georgiana smiled, I no longer listen to Miss Bingley."

Turning to Mrs Ainsley she said, "I think it is time for us to go to Cheapside."

She smiled as Lady Sophia saying, "We are to go to the park in Cheapside with Fitzwilliam and Mr Bingley. They are going to introduce to Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Mr Bingley is engaged to Miss Jane."

Putting her hand over her mouth she gasped, "Oh dear I wasn't supposed to tell anyone. Mr Bingley doesn't want his sisters to know until he has spoken to Mr Bennet and the banns have been posted."

"Oh please godmother, do not tell anyone, I should hate for Miss Bingley especially to find out because of my wagging tongue."

Sophia hugged her saying with a lilt in her voice, "You secret is safe, love , no one here will say a word."

As Georgiana and Mrs Ainsley left with Michael Sophia clapped her hands, "Get with it Darcy," she chortled

IX

Posted on 2010-08-07

"Georgiana, dear, calm yourself, I cannot understand a word you say when you speak so quickly," Lady Sophia laughed. Never had she seen her god daughter so happy and so talkative.

"Oh Lady Sophia, Georgiana said, after taking a breath, I have spent the last three afternoons with Fitzwilliam, Mr Bingley and Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. We went to the park in Cheapside so the children could play. Such lovely children they are."

"I love both the Bennet sisters. Miss Jane is so gentle and sweet and kind. I think she is the most beautiful lady I have ever beheld. Her hair is golden and she has the most beautiful blue eyes."

"Miss Elizabeth makes me laugh. I do not feel ill at ease with them like I do with Mr Bingleys sisters. Miss Elizabeth has such beautiful black hair and her eyes, her eyes are so beautiful. They are amethyst, godmother, I have never seen eyes that color in my life, and her lashes are black and so long and thick. I wish I had lashes like that."

"The Gardiners are so nice too. They made me feel so much at home. "

"We went there for tea after we went to the park. Mr Gardiner was there yesterday. He and Fitzwilliam got on so well. They had so much to talk about, they have so many interests alike, like what is going on in the world, fishing and hunting, horses. I don't even remember what else, they just talked and talked."

"Mr Gardiner told us that they are going to visit the Lake Region in September and Miss Elizabeth is going with them. They are stopping in Lambton where Mrs Gardiner has friends. She lived there when she was a girl." They are visiting people who Fitzwilliam knows. They will visit our church too."

" Mrs Gardiner's father was the clergyman there."

"I can hardly wait to show them Pemberley."

"They are to dine with us at Darcy House tomorrow night. I hope you will come too. Mrs Gardiner likes you very much and so do her nieces."

Lady Sophia smiled. She could not remember a time when Georgiana talked so much, especially about people. She usually uttered but a few words when she asked her about those she knew. She really froze up when Miss Bingley or Mrs Hurst were mentioned.

"Fitzwilliam really loves Miss Elizabeth, she sighed and I think she has feelings for him too. The way she looks at him and smiles, I am sure she does."

"Where is that brother of yours, Sophia asked, I would have a few words with him."

She had barely spoken when Darcy entered the room, smiling.

"Where have you been, boy, she asked. Your sister has been telling me about her new acquaintances. She seems to have found some who she feels at ease with."

Georgiana excused her self to go to speak with Lord St John.

"Darcy grinned,” Indeed godmother, she is most happy with Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth, and Mr and Mrs Gardiner are so kind to her."

"Well, why don't you get on with it, lad, she scolded, Miss Elizabeth seems to be just the right one to bring her out of her shyness. She is perfect to be Mrs Darcy."

"Why don't you ask for her hand, Georgiana thinks she has feelings for you, get on with it boy."

"I have tried Darcy sighed, but whenever I get my courage up Johnathan pops up to ask how it is with me."

Lady Sophia laughed as she pictured in her mind Johnathan Gardiner popping up beside him with that charming grin on his face.

"Georgiana says you have asked them to dine with you on the morrow, do it then. They will not bring the children so you will have no fear of interruption."

"Take them to see the gardens, you can find a few minutes alone with her I am sure, ask her dear, ask her."

"Capital idea,, thank you your ladyship, I will do it. Now I must find a way."

"You will come, I asked Sir John and he said to ask you but he was sure you would be happy to do so."

"Indeed, I will, she smiled, and don't worry, all will be well."

Darcy paced he rooms of Darcy house, checking and rechecking everything. He wanted everything to be perfect. He checked the flowers and for the third time went over the menu with the cook and the housekeeper.

The St John's were the first to arrive and Lady Sophia managed to calm him somewhat before the rest arrived.

Georgiana asked if they would like to see the house and the gardens before dinner. Everyone was eager to do so, and enjoyed the trip around the house.

"I like the quiet elegance of you home Mr Darcy, Elizabeth smiled at him, you mother had impeccable taste."

"I have left it as she made it", he said, there are some who thinks it needs more lively colors and richer furnishings, but I love it as it is."

Elizabeth could not but smile as she thought, the Bingley sister, I would imagine.

"Shall we go to the gardens now, Georgiana said, they are so beautiful at this time of year."

"Lady Sophia and Sir John why don't you start with the Gardiners in the rose garden. Mr Bingley, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, Fitzwilliam and I will start at the orangery and go to the rose garden from there.

She grinned at her brother as he took Miss Elizabeth's arm and showed the way.

Darcy led her to the orchids while Georgiana took Jane and Bingley the other way.

"It is most kind of you to ask us to stay at Pemberley while we are in Derbyshire, she smiled at him, my uncle is looking forward to doing some fishing. he doesn't have many chances, and he does love it. His business does not give him much time for leisure."

"It is my great pleasure to offer him as much as he wants," Darcy replied. I enjoy his company very much. It is such a pleasure to talk to someone who speaks of something but what a goer his horse is or complains about his luck at the gaming tables, or worst compare mistresses."

"Elizabeth laughed, "I can assure you my uncle has no mistress."

There is one thing that would give me greater pleasure," Darcy said, quietly

"Oh and what would that be, sir", she asked.

"If the Gardiners would be visiting the new mistress of Pemberley, their niece Elizabeth,"

Elizabeth stopped to stare at him.

Darcy took her hand saying, "If your feelings about me are the same as they were in Kent, tell me so at once. My affections and desires are the same but one word from you will silence me on the subject forever."

Elizabeth looked at him, the look on his face made her think her think of Johnathan when he wanted her to read to him, but knowing he should not ask stood before her with the book under his arm and a pleading look in his eyes.

"My feelings are quite the opposite of what they were at Rosings Park, she said, after the dreadful things I said to you there I thought you would never see me again. Instead you have been nothing but kindness. I must thank you for bringing Mr Bingley to Jane. She is so happy and it is your doing."

"I accept with pleasure your offer Mr Darcy."

"What did you say of me that I did not deserve, he said, My actions to everyone in Herdfordshire were abominable, I am most ashamed."

"I didn't want to go to the assembly that evening and planned to stay at Netherfield to read and write letters. When Miss Bingley announced that she was going to stay with me I quickly changed my mind."

"When I walked into the hall and saw all those young girls, Georgie's age laughing, talking flirting and dancing I became angry. Why I thought, should they be enjoying the evening while my dear sister was at Darcy House with only Mrs Ainsley,"

"I knew she was still nursing her broken heart, though she tried to show me a cheerful countenance. I heard her crying still when she thought no one was about."

"How is that for folly, blaming people who were nothing but good, people I knew nothing about for what Wickham had done."

"You must not blame yourself, Lizzie said gently I cannot imagine how painful it must have been for you"

"We must think of that no longer, we must think only happy thoughts, my love."

"Dearest loveliest Elizabeth, he smiled, How much I do love you."

'We had best be getting back to the house, your aunt and uncle should not like to come searching for you."

As they entered th room Lady Sophia and Madaline Gardner knew from the from the looks on their faces what had happened and smiled at each other, their hopes and dreams for this wonderful young couple had come true.

Darcy kissed Lizzie's hand before saying to his guests, "I hope you will all wish us happiness. Miss Elizabeth has consented to be my wife.."

X

Posted on 2010-09-08

Bingley took the letter from Blackburn to his chair and shook his head as he thought. "I am sorry Aunt Esmeralda that you have been burdened with my sisters for so long but it was necessary."

He read.

"I must let you know that your family will be home sooner than you expected. Caroline had a letter telling her that the grand opening of the new ----Theater was to be in four days. She begged to leave so that she would not miss the event of the season. They leave in two days time.

I have never been so happy to have anyone quit my home in my life.

Caroline was most unpleasant from the time she arrived. The food was not good enough, the servants were to slow and insolent, the neighbors were boring and so far beneath her to be barely acknowledged.

She did get her comeuppance one ten days ago though. I had a great deal of difficulty keeping my countenance.

You know how much her Grace Lady Bellhorn loves her roses and how she like to work with them herself. She says it feels good to work the soil.

We were invited for tea, so her grace decided to cut me some of my favorite yellow ones. She was there in the garden cutting them when we arrived.

Your sister, not knowing the duchess, chastised the person she thought was a gardener that it was most improper for her to be there when guests arrived. "Gardeners are to not to be seen" she said scornfully.

Lady Bellhorn look at her coldly saying, "This is my garden young woman and I shall do what I wish anytime I wish here."

Caroline was mortified and tried to apologize but every word she utter only made it worse. Saying that her ladyship looked like a common servant in her gardening clothes . Sadly she went on to say that she knew that when some people reached a certain age they tended to become eccentric.

I almost felt sorry for her but I enjoyed her humiliation too much.

Louisa has not been as bad as her sister and has been out of sorts since they arrived. I would wager that she is with child.

Mr Hurst has been a pleasure to have. He likes to walk the countryside and go fishing in the streams. He has been most amiable to all he meets and takes the time to compliment cook for her fine cooking. I think he feels sorry for us and tries to atone for his wife and her sister. I would say that he would prefer to live in the country, it seems to suit him well.

I shall close this now and get it off with all haste so that you are not taken by surprise.

My love to you and your Jane.

"Damn," Bingley said under his breath. “That means that they shall be her the day of the opening event and she will insist on me taking her."

"I will have ask Mr Farnswoirth to accommodate me again, that way I will not be here when she arrives. I can stay away until it is over and come home the next day.

Tossing the letter into the fire he called for his horse and set out for Cheapside.

"Oh Louisa, is it not wonderful to be in town again among our peers. Caroline sighed.. I wish there had been enough time for me to go home before we had to dress to come tonight. Mr Hurst was most selfish refusing to hurry the horses along so that we had just enough time to bathe and dress before we left the house."

Caroline stepped from the carriage looking eagerly about.

"Louisa, it looks like everyone who is anyone is going to be here. Look for Charles, I do not want to enter unescorted."

"There he is, sister, there getting out of the Darcy carriage, this is even better I can enter on Mr Darcy's arm. This is to be a wonderful evening, Louisa, I can feel it. Look, look Louisa, it is Georgianna, things are getting better and better, Charles is here with Miss Darcy, everything is coming true, everything I have dreamed of, sister."

"Stand aside, let us through", she shoved people out of her way in her haste to get to Darcy.
"
"Look again Caro, Mr Hurst grinned, it would seem that Mr Farnsworth is Miss Darcy's escort."

Caroline pushed through in time to see her brother and Mr Darcy walk to the elegant carriage in front of the Darcys.

"Whose carriage is that, Louisa, she said sharply" as a tall, regal lady of late middle age stepped out.

"I believe it is the Duchess of ------, Lady Hart-Hamilton, Hurst said with a smile"

Caroline gasped as her brother reached in and helped Miss Jane Bennet out, followed by her sister Elizabeth whose arm Mr Darcy received with a smile.

"The Bennet's. what do they here she snapped, and why are they with her grace.

"Who are the people who are with them, Louisa, asked, do you know them Caroline?"

"They are the Gardiners, the Bennet’s tradesman uncle and aunt. This is not to be borne Louisa, I cannot believe that a woman of her standing could be seen with them and bringing them in her carriage, this is an abomination. Sister. I must find out what is going on, what has happened whilst we were in Blackburn.

As she started to push toward them Louisa and Hurst turned back and started to walk to the theatre.

"Louisa, Louisa, where are you going, she cried, we must find out what Charles and Mr Darcy are about. I must know if Charles has done something foolish, like asking Jane Bennet to marry him."

"Louisa turned quickly to her sister, "I am not going to talk to them here, Caroline and if you are wise neither will you."

"But Louisa," Caroline whined, we must find out if our brother has put us in a situation where we would become kin to the Bennets.

Louisa was not feeling well and she wished nothing more than to be home in her bed.

"Caroline, she snapped, I am not going anywhere but into the theatre where I can sit down and get some rest."

"For the first time in your life Caroline you are going to listen to someone else. Do not make a fool of yourself as you usually do when you plunge headlong into a situation such as this. Now come with us or go your way alone but I will not go with you. You will not confront Charles tonight either. I promise you that if you create a scene because you think all your plans may have gone awry, We will leave you here to come home in a common cab."

"Caroline was shocked, never had Louisa spoken to her like that, but she went with them pouting and mumbling to herself about how selfish her family was.

The next morning she made haste to Bingley's house but found that he was not there.

"I slept too late, she thought, it is all Hurst's fault, if he had not dallied about we would have got to town in time to get some rest before we went to the show."

"Well I shall go to call on the Darcy's," she smiled.

"Miss Bingley," the servant announced as she swept into the yellow room.

She stopped and stared in disbelief as she beheld the Bennet sisters sitting there.

"Miss Jane, Miss Eliza, what do you here, she snapped. I find it unseemly to find you here at this time of the day."

"They are here at my invitation, she heard Darcy behind her.

"As my betrothed Miss Elizabeth is here to meet the servants, since she will be their Mistress soon."

"Yo, yo, your betrothed, she stammered, you, you, you are betrothed to this nobody, what are you thinking Mr Darcy, do you really wish to have Mrs Bennet as your mother. It is unthinkable."

"I am nor marrying Mrs Bennet, Mr Darcy replied as he kissed Elizabeth's hand.

"Nor am I sister, she heard her brother's voice, I am however marrying Miss Jane Bennet."

"Charles, we must discuss this," she stammered.

"There is nothing to discuss, Caroline, I am engaged to my angel and there is naught you can do or say about it."

Caroline wanted to scream and throw something but she took a deep breath and took her chair again , but when she was offered tea she jumped up saying she had forgotten to ask Louisa something and quickly left them.

She wanted something to drink and the Hurst's was the perfect place to find it.

XI

Posted on 2010-12-16

Elizabeth was curious as to why Lady St John had asked her and Jane to come to tea this day. They had been to the Party for the workers who helped get things ready for The Society for The Poor just yesterday and here was a note from her ladyship asking them to come today. She had stressed the importance of it.

"What could it be Jane, what could be so important?"

"We will go with you Darcy said, in case it may be upsetting to you. My godmother does not send such messages lightly."

Bingley agreed, especially since he noticed the concern on Jane's face.

When they arrived at the St John's they were quite shocked to find their father there.

The girls rushed to him crying," Why Father what brings you to town?"

They could see that their father was very distressed,

"Lady St John has informed me that both of you have given your promise to marry these two fine young men. I think they must hear what we have to say before we proceed with any engagements."

"I have just come from ----- when I have enrolled Lydia in Mrs Markham's School For Young Ladies. Though I think that she will find that the title does not fit you sister."

"But how, why, Jane gasped, where is the money to come from, how could you get her into such an establishment?"

"I had no choice, after you left I found out just how wild she was. How remiss I had been as a father. I hope it is not too late."

"The fault is mine, Lady Sophia sighed it was my interference that brought this all about."

"I was looking in the dress shop window when I saw your sister cavorting with some redcoats up the street form me."

A gentleman stopped to watch with a shake of his head.

"I said to him, it would seem that Miss Lydia Bennet is quite correct, the young men are all very much in love with her."

"In love with her, he laughed, I own the tavern where they congregate. Believe me it is not love they feel for her, she is the biggest joke in the mess. If you could hear what I hear when I am the room above them you would be shocked. I have said nothing about it to anyone out of respect for her two older sisters. They are both so kind to my Bessie. Miss Elizabeth reads to her and teaches her to play the notes on the pianoforte."

Miss Jane teaches her to sew and draw"

My Bessie is slow but she is not stupid as Miss Lydia calls her. She could use some of Bessie's sweetness"

"Mr Harris I said is there some way you could set up a few chairs so that I could bring Lydia Bennet up there where she could hear what they have to say, it would, I believe take some of the conceit out of her and let her know that she is a laughing stock. It would serve her right.

Mr Harris grinned, "Indeed, I could have it set up in two days time. There are some new recruits coming in tomorrow and they will be filling them in on the prospects in town. She will get an earful I can assure you. I will enjoy this, your ladyship, indeed I will."

"Two days later you father and I accompanied the two Lydia and Kitty to the upper room where Mr Harris had set up four chairs for us.

"Lydia was most excited at the thought that she would hear how much the men loved her and would battle over her affections."

"Your Father warned them that they must remain silent and seated, to which they agreed."

"We were there only a few minutes when the young men started to pour in. One of the new recruits brought up the question about the prospects in the village."

"One of the young men brought up you sisters name and she looked at us with a giggle, which stopped when she saw her father's look."

"Harper said that he had never met anyone like her before, but he would not tell us more, just laughed and said to tell her that we were in love with her."

Denny and Harrison laughed and said she is about as vulgar a little tart as you will ever see. The girls who prowl the streets in ----Street are ladies of quality compared to Miss Lydia Bennet"

Lydia started to rise from her chair and opened her mouth to shout at them, but you father clamped his hand over her mouth and slammed her back into her chair."

"You will sit her quietly, not a word or I swear I will beat you," he whispered

'"You will not move or speak until I give you permission, you will sit here and listen to what they have to say, you will hear what they really think of you.

"From below we heard another ask, "If this is so why would anyone want to tell her he loves her."

"Because, one of them answered, if you tell her you love her she will bring out her breasts for you to admire, and she is amply endowed."

'"I gasped in shock and stared at her as she shrank in her chair. I could scarce believe it, but when Kitty started to weep I knew it had to be true."

"Your father stopped the weeping with an angry whisper."

""She must be easy to bed, one of the new men snickered, how many have had her."

"Bed her, Denny laughed. No one would dare and take the chance of having to wed her. Indeed not."

"She has the voice of a banshee and will screech the whole length of the town to gain your attention, can you imagine what would happen if she were forced upon your family. My family would disown me in a trice."

"As would mine, Wilson agreed, and she snorts," he laughed. I try to find a place to hide when I see her come into town. "My horse has more manners than Miss Lydia Bennet. She has been taught nothing of how a decent young woman acts. But then her mother is not much better."

"Her sister , Kitty would be a fine girl if she had a mind of her own and did not let her sister rule over her, Miller added, and the two oldest sisters are indeed ladies of quality. I don't know what happened to the two youngest but they are as different from their sisters as dark from light

"Everyone back to camp someone shouted, and they all left at once.

"Your father sat there like a man in a trance whilst the two girls started to cry and scramble for the stairs."

"STOP, he shouted, you will leave here quietly as if you had some sense of decorum."

"I offered them my carriage and your father was most happy to accept. He did not want to go through the town with two bawling girls"

"I left them at the door at Longbourn and left the next day for town.

"That was six weeks ago and I only found out what happened to the girls when your father came to call yesterday."

Mr Bennet started his story of what happened next .

"Your sisters ran into the house blubbering to you mother, who insisted that I must call them out, that I must go to the Col. and report them for telling such gross lies about her poor girls.

"When I told her that they were not lies that she had admitted to all they said on the way home she wailed that she must go to her sister for consolation,."

When I laughed and told her that the best way to let the whole town know was to tell her sister, she berated me for not trusting her sister. I pointed out to her all the things that she had confided to her sister that were repeated to her by a neighbor before the day was out.

"Go to your sister, let the whole town know that your favorite is a tart of the worst kind. You will have us shunned forever, the girls will not even be able to be a governess or a servant with the stain on our name. If you have nerves now, what will it be then. Do you think Mrs Phillips will stand by you. She is too aware that such relations will be a deterrent to her social life and you know how she loves to play the great lady. I shouted, Go, Go.."

"I went to my room and immediately sent a letter to our cousin Lady Hart Hamilton begging her for help."

"Her letter came much more quickly than I had imagined and with her help I was able to get Lydia into school in all haste though it was three weeks before she came to let me know and took her at once."

She even paid for the school. She said she was glad to do it if she could help remove Lydia from the house and free Kitty to grow up like a lady.

"Kitty stays at home with Mary. She is very quiet and sad, but in time she will be well."

"I have engaged your old governess Mrs Markham to take Mary and Kitty in hand and she is delighted with the task.

You mother has gone to stay at the Phillips',(to your uncles dismay)and vows that she will not return to Longbourn until I bring Lydia home. "

"It is so peaceful there now but for Mary's pontificating."

"Cassandra says that as bad as Lydia is that will be two years."

"She said that she would come to town to see that you two are introduced into society. You could not have a better champion than your cousin Cassandra, she one of the most sought after ladies of the ton, and the most feared by some."

Turning to Darcy, he said, Lady Saint John told me that the two of you had asked my daughters to marry you but I thought you should hear my tale before you asked for my permission as you might not want to be associated with such as we."

"This has nothing to do with Miss Elizabeth, Darcy smiled, I love her and I could never be happy without her for my wife."

Bingley quickly agreed.

"Well Lizzie, is it true that you wish to marry Mr Darcy, I had always thought that you two did not get on at all."

"Indeed it is true Father, I love him very dearly, he is the best man I have ever met."

"Don't worry about Mama, I know how to bring her flying home, Father, she giggled, just wait and see."

"Mr Bingley is to return to Netherfield nex week and I promise Mama will soon be home.

Mr Bennet groaned, "But my dear it has been so peaceful a Longbourn."

XII

Posted on 2011-01-25

Caroline had spent a sennight either crying in her suite at the Hursts or ranting on and on to Louisa about stopping the marriage between Darcy and Lizzie.

Mr Hurst, since he found out that Louisa was pregnant was spending more time at home. He had had enough of Caroline’s tantrums and told her firmly that she was either to stay in her rooms or find somewhere else to live. He would not allow her to stay there and upset his wife with her woes.

"Louisa, are you going to let this drunken oaf speak thus to me? You must make him understand that as my sister you will not tolerate any abuse from him."

Mr Hurst is right, Caroline, you are upsetting me. I cannot let you endanger this child, I have waited too long to be a mother, I must have peace and quiet."

"I might have known, Caroline cried, You have always been selfish, thinking only of yourself. My heart is broken and all you can think of is that brat."

Starting to weep again she ran from the room.

About an hour later she went to Caroline's quarters.

"Sister, she said, I have been thinking, we have seen nothing about any engagement between Miss Eliza and Mr Darcy. There have been no banns posted and nothing in the papers."

"We know that Lady DeBourg expects Darcy to marry her sickly daughter. Perhaps there is a problem there."

"Louisa, of course she laughed, Mr Darcy must let his Aunt know before he can announce anything. He must be trying to think of how to break such news to her,( if he even wants to.) I shall help him out with that, I shall go to Kent and tell her ladyship what Elizabeth is about. I shall leave early tomorrow. Thank you sister, I should have known you would help me."

The next morning she was on her way with a smile for all. She would show Eliza Bennet who was going to be Mrs Darcy.

When she arrived in Kent Lady Catherine was gone for the day so she was forced to take a room at the inn, much to her dismay.

The next afternoon she went to Rosings Park to have a talk with Lady Catherine.

She smiled smugly as she stepped from her carriage.

Lady Catherine did not greet her with great joy, "Well Miss Bingley what brings you to Rosings Park with no invitation," she snapped.

"I have come to inform you of the skullduggery of Miss Eliza Bennet. After the kindness you showed her this past spring she has stabbed you in the back and aspires to marry your nephew Mr Darcy."

"What nonsense, her ladyship snorted. I have seen nothing in the papers about any engagement between my nephew and Miss Bennet. It would surely have been posted there, if such a thing were true. Fitzwilliam would most surely have come to tell me if he were to marry, or at least sent me a letter."

"Mr Darcy is to marry my Anne, everyone knows that. Why have you come all this way to tell me such a fabrication?"

"I know that it is you who would marry Darcy, do not think I cannot see what you are about. Miss Bennet was here at the same time as Darcy this spring and I saw no regard between them. I can assure you that I am most observant, especially of young women who would desire to be Mistress of Pemberley. Do not think you can fool me, Lady Catherine DeBourg will not be party to the plans of a tradesman's daughter.

She had barely spoken the words when a maid brought her an express from Mr Darcy.

Ripping it open she read it in all haste.

Caroline became alarmed when she saw her ladyship turn white, then red, then an alarming shade of blue.

"It would seem that you know whereof you speak Miss Bingley, she choked, my nephew has sent me a letter telling me that he is indeed engaged to Miss Bennet."

"Well, I shall take care of this matter in all haste. I shall go to Herfordshire and let my wishes be known, no country nobody with no one and no standing shall come between my Anne and Mr Darcy. I shall go tomorrow.

"She is not in Herfordshire, your ladyship she is in London, Caroline said with great satisfaction. She and her sister, who is to marry my brother are staying with their aunt and uncle in Cheapside."

"You will accompany me Miss Bingley, you know where they live a can make the introductions so that I can put a stop to this. We will leave at first light tomorrow so you will go to the inn for your things and spend the night here at Rosings.

Caroline wanted to go to the Hursts to beg Louisa to come with them to the Gardiners but Lady Catherine woul not stand for any delays so they went to Cheapside as soon as they reached town.

Mrs Gardiner's butler was shocked when a strange woman pushed him aside demanding to see the mistress of the house and her nieces.

Caroline followed with a smug smile. "Now we will see who is to marry my Mr Darcy," she thought

"Gomes, what is all the noise about," Mrs Gardiner said as she entered the hall to investigate.

"I am Lady Catherine DeBourge, her ladyship announced, as she brushed past Mrs Gardiner, and I am here to set a few things straight with Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Tell your servant to bring her to me at once."

"Good day your ladyship, Miss Bingley, Mrs Gardiner said as she sent her children away. I fear you are in the wrong place if you wish to speak to my niece, they are no longer here."

"Do not trifle with me madam, I know that they are staying here, Miss Bingley has informed me that she called on them here, so send for them at once, I will not be gainsaid."

"Miss Bingley has not seen them for over a sennight, Mrs Gardiner said coldly, if she had she would know that they have moved to their cousin's house on Grosvenor Place.."

"Cousin, on Grosvenor place," her ladyship snorted,

Turning to Caroline she snapped, "You mentioned no cousin on Grosvenor Place Miss Bingley, who is this person who you neglected to inform me about."

"I do not know, she gasped, I have heard of no such cousin, neither Charles nor Miss Bennet has spoken to me of such a person.

"She is her grace Lady Hart-Hamilton," Mrs Gardiner answered.

"Lady Hart-Hamilton, Lady Catherine gasped, why did no one inform me that The Bennets are kin to the Duchess of ---, why did Miss Elizabeth not tell me."

"She did not feel the need," Mrs Gardiner replied.

"Did not feel the need, Lady Catherine asked why would that foolish girl not feel the need to inform me that one of the most wealthy and respected families are related to her."

Curtseying to Mrs Gardiner, she said, "We will leave you now, I must speak to her grace about her cousin, come Miss Bingley we will go now. You have caused me great embarrassment, madam and I will not forget it. Now that I think of it you can find your own was home. I am sure Mrs Gardiner can summon a hack for you, you should have brought your own carriage.

Caroline wanted to scream and weep, she Caroline Bingley would have to be seen arriving at the Hursts in a common hack. She should not have listened to her ladyship and sent the carriage home when they reached town, but she wanted to be seen in the DeBourge Baroche Box.

She gnashed her teeth as Mrs Gardiner sent the servant for the hack. She would have sent her on her way in her own carriage if she had not been so angry.

Lady Catherine stepped from her carriage at the Hart Hamilton mansion. "It has been many a year since I have been here, she thought."

Cassandra Hart Hamilton was one of the few people in the world that Lady Catherine feared, who could make her feel small with a glance.

Straightening her shoulders she marched forward into the lioness' den.

Lady Cassandra started in surprise when her caller was announced, why was Catherine De Bourgh here, they had not spoken since the death if Sir Louis.

"Your grace Lady Catherine curtseyed, I am sure you are surprised to see me but it is necessary, I would speak to your cousin Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

"Elizabeth, her grace said, what business do you have with my young cousin?"

"I am told that she thinks she is to marry my nephew Mr Darcy, I am come to tell her that this is impossible. Mr Darcy is to marry my Anne. They were pledged from the cradle, he cannot marry anyone else."

"I know of your scheme to marry your daughter to Mr Darcy, her grace laughed. You are the only one who wishes it. I know that Anne wanted him to marry a woman he could love and respect as she and George did. Louis did not want it either, you know that. Do not tell me that it is all settled Catherine, you forget that Anne and I were best friends and she confided in me as did George."

"I know how you pursued him even before her death. You have always wanted Pemberley and when he refused your advances you decided that you would force a marriage between FitzWilliam and you daughter. George told me all, Catherine, I have kept my silence but if you insist on making trouble for these two wonderful young people I will tell everyone of our acquaintance."

"You are too late, Catherine they have gone to Hertfordshire these three days ago."

XIII

Posted on 2011-02-10

Mrs Gardiner patted Lizzie's hand as they prepared to exit the carriage at the Phillips house.

"Courage girls, you must stand firm, she said with a smile, perhaps it will not be so bad."

They found their mother looking lost and forlorn reclining in a fainting couch twisting a handkerchief and patting her chest while holding her smelling salts

"Jane, dear, dear Jane, Lizzie my child, you have come to your mother in her hour of need, I knew you would, I knew you would not stay away when your mother is at death's door. I have left Longbourn forever, Your Father has been so cruel. He has sent my poor, poor Lydia to a school in
Suffolk. I shall never see her again."

"What nonsense, Mr Gardiner snorted you shall see her in a years time, maybe less if she does well. It is the best thing for her, sister"

"A year’s time, wailed Mrs Bennet, I shall be dead and gone in a years time."

"Perhaps our news will make you better, Mrs Gardiner smiled. I am sure you will be most happy to hear it."

"There is nothing that can ease my pain and lengthen my time on this earth. My heart can only take so much before it stops beating out of pure unhappiness."

Jane walked to her mother and took her hand, "I am engaged, Mamma, she said. Lizzie is too. We are so happy and hope that you can rejoice with us."

"ENGAGED", shouted Mrs Bennet and Mrs Phillips at the same time, as they joined hands and danced around.

"You are engaged, oh my dearest Jane, is it Mr Bingley, or perhaps a lord. I am so glad that you went to town with Lady St. John, I was sure that she would know who of the gentry would be in need of a wife.I knew your beauty would attract only the best."

"Lady Jane, how well that sounds, does it not Mrs Phillips"

"Well my love, please tell me at once who is it."

Jane laughed, "It is not a lord, Mamma, it is Mr Bingley. We are to be married next month."

"Lizzie is engaged too, sister," Mr Gardiner said.

"I heard you the first time, brother she said testily, but I am sure no man of consequence would want to marry her, but tell me who it is, do you know him, is he rich."

"It is Mr Darcy," Lizzie said quietly.

Mrs Bennet plopped down and stared at her second daughter for many minutes, opening and closing her mouth while making squeaking sounds, unable to speak.

Grabbing her smelling salts she took a breath before stumbling from her chair to grab Elizabeth in a bear hug as she regained her speech.

"Mr Darcy, did you hear that, sister," she asked the still silent staring Mrs Phillips.

"Oh my dearest Lizzie, you shall be one of the richest women in England, what jewels, what carriages, what lace you shall have. I am beside myself with joy. You will have the finest silk dresses, no muslin for Mrs Darcy, OH how well that sounds, Mrs Darcy"

"We shall have the wedding here, shall we not sister."

"You will need new furniture, sister, we must have only the best for all the gentry who will be here to see Mr Darcy marry my Lizzie."

"Momma, before you start spending Mr Phillips money I must tell you that we will be wed from Longbourn. It is our home and it is where we wish to greet our friends who come for our weddings," Jane said quietly.

"Longbourn, I shall never set foot in that house again, if you want your mother to be there to help you with the plans you will have it here where I now reside."

"No Mamma, Jane answered, we shall be at our home."

Mrs Bennet fell into the fainting couch, snatching up her smelling salts.

"Longbourn, she screeched clutching at her heart, Longbourn where you know I shall never enter, you would deny you mother the pleasure of your wedding plans, the guests, the dresses, you would go on without your mother."

Selfish, selfish, ungrateful girls, you would send your poor mother to her death to have your way, what have I done that my children should be so cruel to me."

"Enough, Fanny," Mr Gardiner shouted.

"How dare you call these two wonderful girls selfish and ungrateful. It is you who are selfish and ungrateful, and cruel. You who would try to shame them into letting you have your way no matter how many it hurts. You, who have never given a thought to anyone but yourself in your life."

"Oh brother, how you hate me, my heart palpitates, my head aches, my hands shake from your cruelty and shouting." Mrs Bennet wailed."

"It is you who are cruel, sister," Mr Gardiner answered

"When you were a child you would throw yourself on the floor in a tantrum kicking and screaming to get what your way, now you are too big for that so you use heart palpitations, headaches and shaking to get your way. Well we are on to you Fanny and it will not work. If you are in such ill health you would not be able to withstand the pressure of all the work that will go into planning a double wedding."

"One of these days you will really be ill Fanny and no one will pay you any attention, you have cried wolf too many times."

"We will leave you now. I am sure that Madalaine will be only too happy to be of service to the girls."

"Turning to his sisters as they were leaving he said, "You say you are indisposed for missing your favorite child. If you truly loved her you would be happy that she has been given this opportunity, you would rejoice that she is learning to be a proper lady instead of the joke of rhe army mess. You would be glad that she is learning decorum and civility and will no longer be the wild silly stupid tart that she has become."

As they were going out the door Mrs Gardiner said, "I an sure Cousin Cassandra and Lady Sophia would be only too happy to help, girls. Think of what fine weddings you will have with those two to assist us."

"Lady Cassandra, they heard Mrs Bennet screech, Lady Cassandra, I will not permit that woman in my house, Cousin Cassandra indeed."

Mr Gardiner gave the girls a wink saying,"That should bring her to Longbourn in all haste.

XIV

Posted on 2011-03-15

"Why do you detest her Grace, Mrs Phillips asked, I would think Fanny you would want her friendship so that your daughters can be properly introduced into society. How grand it would have been if she could have presented Lizzie and Jane at court."

" I detest the woman, Mrs Bennet snapped. She tried everything in her power to stop Thomas from marrying me. She said I was coarse and vulgar, and the silliest twit in the kingdom. Mr Bennet paid her no heed and married me in spite of her and his mother. After Mother
Bennet passed she never came to Longbourn again until now. Now she wishes to take over my duties and execute my girl's weddings. I will not have it."

"As much as I dislike it I must return to Longbourn, at least until the girls are safely wed and in their new homes."

The maid entered and announced that Mrs Green had come to call.

"Say nothing of this, Phyllis, I will not have her spreading it all around town that I have returned to Longbourn, I wish to tell my friends myself."

"Mrs Phillips, Mrs Bennet, have you heard the news, The Maxwells are to sell Netherfield, she cried breathlessly. The have had a buyer inquire about it but they have come to give Mr Bingley first chance. They are there even now to speak to him.

"Will that not be wonderful, Mrs Bennet, to have Jane living here? I am sure they will have grand dinners and balls. They will take it of course, will they not?"

Mrs Bennet and her sister looked at her, mouths agape.

"Who has spread these stories, Mrs Bennet snapped, who told you this."

"Why Lady Lucas told me herself, she is a good friend of Mrs Maxwell you know."

After a few minutes their caller left them to ponder what they had just been told.

In a few minutes Mrs Bennet clapped her hands saying, "This is the answer to my prayers Phyllis, it it answer to everything.."

"Fanny, what are you planning, what do you mean, this is the answer to everything."

"Think sister, think. Mr Bingley will buy Netherfield and after the wedding I shall move to Netherfield and when Lydia returns she will come to live there with me. Oh what fun we will have sister, having tea with all my friends in the finest house in Herfordshire. We shall have a grand ball to celebrate my dearest daughter's return to where she belongs."

"Fanny, Mrs Phillips gasped in shock. You cannot move in with them when they are newly married. They must have time for them selves' sister. To do such a thing would be an abomination."

"Abomination, Mrs Bennet shrieked, of what are you speaking. Do you not think that Jane will not love to have her mother there to teach her to manage such a large house? Do you not think she would miss me if I was not there for her every day as I have always been? She will have to have some new furniture and new drapes all over. Those in the drawing room will have to go first."

"Fanny, Fanny, you cannot barge into your daughters new home and start to change things to suit your taste. Jane must decide for herself if she wants to change Netherfield. She is perfectly capable of running her home herself. She and Lizzie have managed Longbourn for years. Everyone knows that. Mrs Bennet taught them well."

"You cannot rush in there and start spending money that you have no right to, sister."

"Oh pish tosh, what nonsense you speak, Jane will be happy with anything I do and Mr Bingley can surely afford it."

Mr Phillips had come home when he saw Mrs Green leave, He arrived in time to hear almost everything his wife and her sister said and turning on his heel he left quickly saying. "Stupid, silly selfish woman, does she never think of anyone but herself."

Mr Bingley was surprised when his butler announced Mr Phillips, he barely knew the man.

Mr Phillips entered the room to find Lizzie, Jane, Mr Darcy, Mrs Gardiner and Lady Hart Hamilton sitting there having tea.

Her grace was newly arrived after getting an express from Mr Gardiner.

He bowed to all and after accepting a cup of tea proceeded to tell them all their mothers plans.

"Jane and Bingley looked at each other in distress.

"We cannot buy Netherfield now Mr Bingley, Jane cried, we will have to let Mr Maxwell sell it to Lord Hartford. I cannot impose my mother on you, Mr Bingley, I will not."

"But my dearest Jane I thought you wanted to stay here, I thought you wanted to be close to your family."

"There seems to be such a thing as being too close to ones relations, Jane smiled at him, no Mr Bingley we will have to look elsewhere."

"The thought of Lydia being set free, here, demanding balls and parties is unbearable."

Elizabeth was so proud of her sister, she, who always saw the best in everyone was at last seeing what her mother was really like.

"Please Uncle say nothing to my mother or my aunt of this, Jane smiled.

Their Uncle Phillips laughed, "Do you think me a fool, I value my life too much to do that."

'You must make sure that the servants say nothing either, Lizzie reminded them, I think the thought of having to wait upon our mother day after day will be enough to make them hold their tongues."

"I think I might have the answer to your for your problem, Lady Hart-Hamilton smiled, I can have it for you in a sennight I am sure."

"Jane and Lizzie returned to Longbourn with Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy to find their mother already moving home.

"Girls, girls I could not dessert you at this wonderful time, she crooned, what fine weddings we will have."