Section I, Next Section
Chapter One: A Great Notion Posted on Sunday, 24 February 2002
It had been 3 months since Bingley had laughed, or indeed smiled in the usual jovial manner, and a little over 3 months since the removal from Netherfield. Darcy pondered this coincidence for the umpteenth time whilst he sat waiting for Bingley at their London club.
'Perhaps I was wrong to help remove Bingley from her society? Perhaps Bingley was more attached than he usually is.' Darcy thought. But then he remembered all the reasons why that particular lady was all wrong for Bingley- no connections, fortune or decency (at least certain members of the family if not the lady herself). This was a happy reminder since it stopped him from feeling something like regret. 'And what about myself?' Darcy pondered. 'Am I pining over a particular Hertfordshire lady? I hope not, she is entirely unsuitable- as unsuitable as Bingley's lady- which isn't surprising since they are sisters. Her eyes I cannot forget...'
Luckily (for Darcy) Bingley was ushered into the seat opposite Darcy, which meant Darcy had to pull his thoughts away from "fine eyes".
"I say Darcy," Bingley started as he sat down, "you had the most peculiar look on your face as I was walking up! I was waving to you, but you did not even recognise me. What were you thinking of?"
"Err ... nothing much. Nothing that cannot be forgotten." Darcy replied, hoping rather than believing it to be true. "And how are you today? It is decidedly chilly today, and you should really wear a warmer overcoat."
"Well, not in the best of spirits- nothing to Netherfield. You know, I cannot remember a happier time than those short months I spent there!" Bingley responded, a slight wistful smile tugging at his mouth. "As to my dress, I confess I do not pay as much attention to it of late. It was warmer in Hertfordshire."
"Yes, well I for one am glad to be back in London" Darcy stated, hoping to move on to a different topic.
"Happy?! You happy to be in London?" exclaimed Bingley "I've never heard anything so absurd before! You rarely enjoy London, especially in the season. I'm surprised you haven't scooted off to Pemberley before now."
Darcy winced at the truth. He did not enjoy London, and would have much rather spent these last months in the country, but he knew that he had to keep an eye on Bingley. Miss Bingley had been most anxious for her brother, and would not dream of Darcy removing himself at this crucial moment. Darcy winced again. Perhaps Miss Bingley had other motives for wanting Darcy to stay. Either way, Darcy was beginning to tire of Miss Bingley and forming a distaste for the whole Jane Bennet escapade. Darcy would have gone back to Pemberley, if not for aforementioned Jane Bennet's presence in London at this time and the urgent need to keep Bingley occupied whilst Miss Bingley dealt with her.
"Well, I must admit that Pemberley is infinitely to be preferred to London, but compared to other places, London certainly has its attractions." Darcy replied. "However, I cannot afford to stay much longer Bingley. My cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam is taking leave of the army for a month and we are journeying for our yearly visit to Lady Catherine."
Both men grimaced at her name.
"Well, I hope you shall enjoy your time there." Bingley said hopefully, "At least you will be in the country" and with that Bingley looked even gloomier than usual.
Darcy listened in alarm. 'Bingley is truly affected. He was not interested in any of the parties and numerous flowers of society that I have been introducing him to. If only I could find some woman who would interest Bingley enough so he can overcome his attachment to Miss Bennet! What if they were to meet at one of these gatherings whilst I was away?'
"Oh dear!" Bingley looked up in surprise at his friend. "Why? Whatever is the matter Darcy?"
Darcy looked up confused, until he realised that he had uttered the last words aloud.
"Erm ... nothing, I was just thinking of Rosings and the formidable Aunt Catherine" Darcy managed with a weak smile. 'Rosings and Bingley ... Bingley at Rosings! Yes! That is the only way to ensure Bingley is out of the way!'
Darcy grinned.
"Actually Bingley, what would you say to accompanying me to Rosings?"
Bingley looked at him hesitantly. "You wish me to accompany you to Rosings Park? I would not dream of imposing!"
"Nonsense," Darcy exclaimed, "it would be a great honour to introduce you to my aunt, and I would be most thankful for the company."
"But isn't your cousin accompanying you?" Bingley asked.
"Well yes, but it would be nice to have you there as well. Indeed, I think a change of scene and society is just what you need to perk up a bit. You have not been quite yourself for the last few months. I think a little trip to the country will be just what you need." Darcy was warming up to the idea.
"Well it has been a while since I was in the country. I have not been in the country since the 26th of November- at the Netherfield Ball! But really, I could just go back to Netherfield. That is in the country." Bingley's eyes widened at the thought. His eyes resumed their former sparkle at the idea of seeing her again.
"Yes, but I shall not be able to accompany you, and I do not think your sisters would enjoy it- they are enjoying London at present." Darcy replied, hoping to squash the direction the conversation was going in. He was also distressed at the exact remembrance of the date of the ball.
"Very true" Bingley replied, somewhat deflated, "What about your Aunt? I cannot intrude upon her privacy."
"Do not worry about it, I shall arrange it all!" Darcy responded, happy to notice that Bingley would be brought around eventually to his thinking. "Colonel Fitzwilliam will be here tomorrow. We shall leave by the end of the week. Do you think you could be ready in time?"
"I suppose so, yes." Bingley replied.
"Excellent! Now if you don't mind, I shall have to go inquire about an artist I would like to commission for a portrait of Georgiana. Shall we dine tomorrow night at my place, you can be reacquainted with Col Fitzwilliam?" Darcy said, rising from the table.
"It would be a pleasure Darcy" Bingley said with a smile. "I shall look forward to it."
"Goodbye Bingley"
"See you tomorrow Darcy." Bingley sighed. A trip to the country would be pleasant, although not nearly as pleasant as a trip to Netherfield. 'But it wouldn't do me any good since she doesn't return my affections.' Bingley ordered another drink, not knowing that Jane Bennet was at this moment in London, writing a letter to a beloved sister staying at Hunsford.
Chapter Two: Before Dinner Drinks Posted on Sunday, 24 February 2002
"Ah, there you are Caroline!" Bingley cried from the dining room. "Could you come in for a while, I have something I should very much like you to hear."
"Why of course Charles, what is it?" Caroline was secretly alarmed 'What if he has unexpectedly bumped into Jane Bennet?' Smiling a little uneasily, Caroline sat down.
"I was just wanting to tell you that I shall be dining with Darcy tonight," (Big sigh from Caroline) "and that I have been invited to visit Rosings Park with him at the end of the week." He finished before she could ask if she was invited.
"Why how lovely Charles!" exclaimed Caroline, dripping with insincerity. "But pray, may I ask if I can accompany you tonight? I would love to see Mr. Darcy again."
Bingley was a bit embarrassed at his sister's obvious intentions towards his best friend. "I'm sorry Caroline, but it would not be quite proper since Georgiana is not staying there, and there will be three bachelors at a bachelor's house. I'm sure it would be quite boring for you there, listening to us men talk of politics and business."
"Oh pish Charles!" exclaimed Miss Bingley, "It would not matter about propriety with my brother accompanying me. And I absolutely love hearing about politics, especially Mr. Darcy- he has such a firm grasp of the topic."
"Strange, I remember you being quite affronted when Miss Elizabeth could talk politics, and you grew quite bored of the conversation she and Darcy had once at Netherfield." Bingley delighted in throwing this little inconsistency at his annoying sister.
"Yes well, Eliza does have a conceited air about her and she was quite unladylike in her opinions! But I can see you do not wish me to go. You are so thoughtless to your dear, darling sister" Caroline pouted in a last attempt.
"Not at all Caroline!" Bingley smirked. "I knew you would not like to be left to your own devises, so I invited Miss Steele and her sister over. They are always so attentive to you. I'm sure you will have an enjoyable evening, but I must be off now. Goodbye Caroline."
Bingley pecked her cheek and quickly moved out of the room so as to only catch Miss Bingley's horrid gasp "Oh Charles, no!"
That evening Colonel Fitzwilliam was sitting comfortably in his favourite cousin's overstuffed reclining chair.
"So tell me Will, what makes you so anxious to be off to Aunt Catherine's this year?"
"Well, I am sick of London!" Darcy replied
"Then go to Pemberley. My goodness man! If I had an estate as beautiful as Pemberley, I would be sure to be at it every moment! But you have hardly been there this year. First you are in London for the season, then you accompany your friend Bingley to Hertfordshire and then back to London!"
"Pemberley is out of the question!" Darcy shot back quickly.
"Why? You have been acting quite strange for the past couple of months. I know Pemberley weighs heavily on you, and you don't like to be reminded of your dear parents' deaths, but I'm sure Georgiana would love to see you at Pemberley."
Darcy ran a hand through his tousled hair. It wasn't so much his parent's death that stopped him from enjoying Pemberley, but because it felt so empty. He disliked walking through the hallways with the only sound of his footsteps echoing. Pemberley needed something to liven it up. A lady of the house. Children. 'When will I be able to go home and it really feel like home again?' Darcy pondered. He looked up, realising that Fitzwilliam still required an answer.
"I just feel that it is a waste of time to go home to Pemberley for a few weeks only to leave for Rosings. That and the fact that I am needed in London at present. You know my good friend Bingley?" Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded. "He formed an undesirable attachment in Hertfordshire. I'm here to help keep his mind off it."
"Undesirable attachment?" laughed Colonel Fitzwilliam "Whatever do you mean by that? Did he have a quick tumble with a nurse-maid?"
Darcy looked sternly at his cousin. "Nothing like that. Bingley became desperately in love with a young lady of a country gentleman."
Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed again. "And pray tell me, what was so undesirable about that? Bingley sounds like the sort of young man who would welcome a pretty wife sooner than later, unlike you and I who are settled bachelors!" Darcy cleared his throat a bit nervously at that, which didn't go unnoticed by Colonel Fitzwilliam. "You did say she was pretty didn't you?"
"Oh, she was extremely pretty. Very Grecian and graceful. Bingley could not stop calling her an angel"
"Then what was the matter? Did she have horrible teeth or a laugh like his sister Miss Bingley? (You know her laugh always reminds me of a hyena being strangled) Were her manners quite bad? Tell me man! What was wrong with her?"
Darcy squirmed a bit in his chair. 'This chair is decidedly uncomfortable. I shall have to replace it.'
"Nothing was wrong with her per se, she was modest and charming, if a little too quiet. Her teeth were very good, and although she laughed rarely, she smiled often. I meant rather that her situation was unsuitable."
"Situation?" scoffed Colonel Fitzwilliam. "What does Bingley need of money or station. He is not in the highest circles, and I dare say has no desire to be in them. He may not be the wealthiest individual, but he has a handsome income, one that would support wife and children without needing to draw upon his wife's dowry. If only others could be so fortunate as he!"
"Well I do not agree." Darcy responded firmly, "Bingley could always do with more money, especially if he wishes to provide for any sons past the heir. I would enjoy seeing Bingley rise to a greater social circle..."
"Greater social circle?" Colonel Fitzwilliam puzzled, "He cannot rise further because the aristocratic snobs would not wish to associate with tradesman's sons. Darcy, Bingley cannot rise any further because he is not of noble blood. It does not matter if he married a woman with 20 thousand pounds. No, this is all you!" Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed, "These are all reasons you are coming up with! Did Bingley have any problems with the lady?"
Darcy shifted again in his uncomfortable seat.
"Well no, he was too busy mooning over her! He doesn't think of these things. He needs someone to watch over him. Someone..."
"Someone like you!" Colonel Fitzwilliam declared. Sometimes talking to Darcy gave him a headache. "I do not think a grown man should rely so heavily upon another. Why not let your puppy dog off a leash and see what he does?"
"He is not my puppy dog!" Darcy was slowly losing his temper.
"You certainly take prodigious care that he does not wet his feet! I dare say you recommend him to wear warm things in winter!"
Darcy turned slightly red remembering yesterday's conversation with Bingley. Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at him in exasperation.
"You are a regular mother to that man Darcy!" Colonel Fitzwilliam rubbed his forehead. He didn't enjoy arguing with his cousin. He decided to switch the topic. "So what did you think of Hertfordshire Darce?"
Me?" Darcy looked up in surprise. "Well ... I thought there was some uncommonly fine ey ... err houses in the area." 'Good one Darcy! You cannot forget her for a minute can you?' "Yes, the houses, particularly Netherfield were quite suitable. I am glad that Bingley took the house, except for some of the neighbours, it really was quite a nice area..."
'Darcy is talking too much and much too quickly. What was it he was going to say instead of houses?' Colonel Fitzwilliam squinted at Darcy. Darcy was continuing to talk about the state of the roads and the hunting and all the forests around the area. Colonel Fitzwilliam noticed he was slightly flushed, and he kept adjusting his cravat and squirming in the chair. Something was decidedly wrong with Darcy. 'What could it be?' mused Colonel Fitzwilliam.
"... There were a couple of assemblies, although the society was quite shocking, which I think I have mentioned before. Miss Bingley could only find one young lady that she could attach herself to, and one day whilst Bingley and I were dining with the officers in Meryton, she was invited to dinner..."
"Oh please!" interjected Colonel Fitzwilliam, "do not mention Caroline Bingley to me! Last time I saw her she was all over me for being your cousin. The only way I could fend her off was by telling her how poor I was and how much you disliked me!"
Darcy looked a bit startled at this interruption. He was rambling in an attempt to move conversation to anything other than his opinions of Hertfordshire.
"Yes, well, perhaps we should move on" Darcy chuckled. "Bingley should be here any minute. Please restrict your comments on Netherfield to a minimum."
Any further warning was cut off with the butler announcing Mr. Charles Bingley.
Bingley!" Darcy rose clapping him on the shoulder warmly. "You remember Colonel Fitzwilliam, I'm sure"
"Hello Mr. Bingley" Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled.
"What a pleasure to see you again Colonel Fitzwilliam" Bingley responded warmly. "Darcy is forever talking about you! Well, that is, when he is not speaking of Georgiana or Pemberley."
"He is, is he?" Colonel Fitzwilliam replied. "How unjust of him! I must now retaliate by asking you all about him..."
Darcy grew slightly alarmed at how Colonel Fitzwilliam's grin widened at some thought of his own. 'That doesn't look good.'
"So tell me Bingley (I may call you Bingley?), I hear you have just been visiting the country? Tell me all about your estate!"
Colonel Fitzwilliam ignored Darcy's I-thought-I-told-you-not-to-do-that look (which reminded him somewhat of Lady Catherine).
"Oh Colonel Fitzwilliam, I had such a pleasant time! The people were just delightful. One family in particular were very attentive and pleasant." Bingley gushed
"Indeed? Darcy was saying that he did not enjoy it that much at all" Colonel Fitzwilliam smirked.
"Yes, well, Darcy doesn't enjoy dancing or meeting people, although he did seem to enjoy arguing with one particular lady."
Colonel Fitzwilliam's eyebrows rose sharply. Darcy was giving Bingley a warning look. Bingley smiled happily.
"A lady? Really? Darcy I had no idea!"
"Fitzwilliam, really, Bingley exaggerates the situation. Eliz ... Miss Bennet and I had a few disagreements. We didn't quite get along together. She was quite impertinent."
"HA!" Bingley laughed, "Now you are sounding exactly like Caroline. Miss Elizabeth Bennet was a charming young woman with a brain of her own. And admit it man! You found it refreshing after all the simpering Carolines of society."
"Charming young woman?" Colonel Fitzwilliam was growing intensely interested. "But to the most important aspect. Was she pretty?"
Bingley looked at Darcy, hoping that he would answer the question. Darcy turned to the window and fiddled with his pinkie ring. Bingley looked to Colonel Fitzwilliam and winked. Colonel Fitzwilliam's grin broadened considerably.
"So what do you say Darce, or shall I have to ask Bingley here?"
Darcy turned slightly and adjusted his choking cravat.
"I think..." Bingley began but was cut off by Darcy's choked out "Yes, she was ravishing." He turned again to the window. "But there are other more important recommendations for a wife than her beauty."
Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at each other in astonishment. Not even Bingley had thought that Darcy was that keen.
'Oh this is just wonderful! It accounts for so much of his strange behaviour. Could part of his move to remove Bingley from Hertfordshire company be for himself?'
"Dinner is served, sir." The butler announced.
Darcy cleared his throat. "Yes, well. Gentleman, please let us remove to the table." He ushered them out.
Chapter Three: A Revealing Dinner Posted on Sunday, 24 February 2002
Dinner was a tense affair. Darcy was berating himself for letting out his weakness for a certain individual. 'Not to mention intimating that I had actually thought of her in terms of matrimony! Darcy you are a fool.'
Bingley and the Colonel chatted about mundane matters and the new play that was showing at the Theatre. Bingley seemed a little restrained in his manner. He desperately wanted to discuss Hertfordshire again, but Darcy didn't seem to have recovered from their last foray into that topic.
Colonel Fitzwilliam suffered from no such restraint, and soon brought the topic back to Netherfield.
Darcy looked up sharply at his cousin, accusing him with his dark, troubled eyes.
"Oh you do not have to talk about Netherfield, Darce. We all know your opinion on the matter. Beautiful, but not good enough for Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, owner of the extensive Pemberley!" the last was said in the Colonel's best imitation of Lady Catherine. Bingley's eyes were wide, and he was trying hard not to laugh.
Darcy looked blackly at the Colonel, reminding himself that he was a relative and punching people in your own home was never the conduct of a gentleman.
The Colonel only laughed. "Come Bingley, tell me more about Netherfield. The proportions of the room, the size of the chimney piece."
Bingley didn't need a second invitation and expounded the virtues of the building, the countryside and the neighbours. It was quite a one-sided conversation with Bingley speaking all the way through the courses and over brandy afterwards. Colonel Fitzwilliam was enjoying himself immensely. Bingley was an enthusiastic talker and was quite excited about his topic. Colonel Fitzwilliam leaned back in his chair and let Bingley's excitement wash over him while he stared at his silent cousin. Darcy was sitting there trying to stoically take the constant stream of "Hertfordshire this" and "Netherfield that". Colonel Fitzwilliam saw the glimpses of pain, longing and determination in Darcy's eyes whenever a certain family was mentioned. But these reactions were nothing compared with the way he reacted when Bingley was recounting a breakfast conversation that was had at Netherfield after Miss Elizabeth had walked to see to her sister.
"... 'I'm afraid Mr. Darcy that this adventure has rather affected your admiration for her fine eyes.'" Bingley was saying in his best Caroline imitation, "and then Colonel, Darcy knocked her flat with 'Not at all, they were brightened by the exercise' Ha Ha! Caroline went bright orange (to match her gown) and Louisa had to come to her rescue with a 'But Jane is a sweet girl.'" Bingley's own eyes had softened at any mention of the eldest Miss Bennet, but the Colonel, too absorbed in Miss Elizabeth and the effect on Darcy didn't notice Bingley's obvious attraction to Miss Jane Bennet.
Darcy, upon hearing this speech looked up stricken.
'Her eyes' both Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy thought at once. 'Her eyes! Eyes!! Yes that is what he was going to say instead of houses! Darcy, you are lost to bachelorhood.' Colonel Fitzwilliam nearly rubbed his hands in glee.
Darcy instead, rose up out of his chair and commented on the lateness of the hour. Bingley looked a bit guilty, but took the hint gracefully and took his leave saying that he would be around in the morning to start the trip to Rosings Park.
"Goodbye Colonel, it was a delightful evening. I shall look forward to speaking to you again soon." Bingley exclaimed going out.
"Yes, I'm sure you will delight in having such a listener to your ramblings!" Colonel Fitzwilliam said under his breath.
"I didn't know you had invited Bingley to accompany us Darcy?" Colonel Fitzwilliam asked as he organised his coat, hat and gloves.
"Well I had to leave London, and as you saw tonight, Bingley cannot be left pondering this Hertfordshire lady without me to distract him. Especially since..."
"Since what?!" The Colonel exclaimed
"Since she is currently residing in London with her Aunt! The possibility of a chance meeting is slim, but is possible nevertheless, and therefore I have determined that Bingley being out of London is the best possible way of ensuring they never meet."
"You mean she has come to London to chase after Bingley?" Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed in wonderment. "I did not realise that she was that calculating."
"No, I do not believe that the lady herself would have thought of it. I understand that this Aunt often extends invitations to her nieces to visit her in London. No, the lady is too modest to come chasing after Bingley. The mother however, the mother would stop at nothing I'm sure to secure such a catch for her daughter!"
Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed. "Mothers, either high or low, all are determined to secure a good match for their daughters. If they did not, would we worry that they did not care? Goodbye Darcy, tomorrow at 10." Was the Colonel's ending remark as he walked out the door.
Chapter Four: To Rosings We Shall Go Posted on Sunday, 24 February 2002
The next morning everything was readied for their departure and they set off before midday. Caroline was slightly put out, partly because her brother was going to spend so long in Darcy's company and she would not have that pleasure and partly because she would have to stay with Louisa and Mr. Hurst. 'At least he is away from that country girl. And this extended companionship might make Darcy want to be a brother to Bingley always!' Caroline thought smugly. So she happily went off to plan her trousseau, knowing it would only be a matter of time before she could reign at Pemberley.
The talk in the carriage had been kept to a minimum due to Darcy still being quite close-mouthed. Bingley was feeling sorry for the pain he put his friend through yesterday and therefore determined to keep his sighs and his "Netherfields" to himself. The Colonel suffered no such compunction, although he did have a feeling that he should not push his cousin too far, especially when going to see an annoying relative. 'No, Darcy will have enough to deal with keeping Aunt Catherine off his back about a marriage to Anne.'
So they were all quite silent, and quite dull for most of the trip. Darcy's thoughts were very much on the conversation last night, especially the Colonel's closing remark. Could it be that he was being too strict on Mrs. Bennet? That her exuberance and obvious ploys were a result of her fondness for her daughters, which in itself is commendable? 'It doesn't matter now, since I will hopefully never see her or her daughters again.' He was also reflecting on the queer pain that thought gave to him.
So they continued on in silence, each one thinking of his own thoughts, until suddenly Bingley remembered a bit of news in the newspaper a month or so ago.
"I must say I am looking forward to this trip to Rosings Darcy" he started. Colonel Fitzwilliam looked up in amusement- it was obvious Bingley had never met Lady Catherine. Darcy's look conveyed this same thought.
"For Rosings Park reminds me of Mr. Collins and something about him in the paper about a month ago."
"Mr. Collins?!" Darcy exclaimed! "Oh dear, I had forgotten he was Aunt Catherine's clergyman."
The Colonel laughed, "Whatever is the matter with Mr. Collins?"
"Well," Bingley started, "he is a bit excessive in his praise of Lady Catherine."
"Indeed?" Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed.
"Bingley is being too polite. Mr. Collins is a snivelling toad, utterly repulsive and I suppose, therefore a suitable clergyman for Lady Catherine." Darcy finished with the first hint of a smile all day.
"Yes well, I don't know if I would be that harsh, but he was a bit hard to take" Bingley grinned. "Well, he is a cousin of the Bennet's in Hertfordshire and he was staying with them during the last few weeks of our stay. Caroline was telling me that she was sure Mr. Collins had come to get a wife from among his cousins (Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's heads shot up at this. Darcy had already seen which cousin had Collins' preference) and she was right." Bingley smiled. "Won't it be fun to see some old acquaintances again?"
Darcy was waiting for the bad news. 'Not Elizabeth, please not!'
"Especially since she was such a nice acquaintance. We saw her quite regularly."
'Oh dear no!' Darcy was suffering, trying to imagine that lively, beautiful woman as Mrs. Collins, never to be Mrs. Darcy. 'NO! Now you've gone too far Darcy! You can wish she wasn't one man's wife without wishing she was yours'
Meanwhile Bingley was rambling on about happy times in Hertfordshire spent with these people.
Colonel Fitzwilliam finally asked the question that Darcy could not bring himself to.
"Yes Bingley, but who is, or was the lady that Collins married?"
Bingley looked up in surprise. "Oh sorry, I thought I had said, Miss Charlotte Lucas- the Bennet's good friend."
Darcy breathed again. 'Thank you' was his only thought while the carriage, and Bingley rambled on to Rosings Park.
Chapter Five: A Chilly Welcome Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
"Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, welcome!" Lady Catherine shouted from across the hallway. "Come sit down next to me in the drawing room and greet dear Anne."
Rolling their eyes at each other, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam walked in to greet Aunt Catherine.
"Thank you Lady Catherine, but we must see to our luggage and our rooms. I would much rather freshening up before greeting you all properly."
Lady Catherine beamed at Darcy, sure that he wished to look his best when meeting Anne for the first time in six months. Colonel Fitzwilliam knew the real reason for his cousin's response, namely stalling the inevitable, and just grinned. Bingley walked sprightly in at this point.
"Aunt Catherine, please allow me to introduce my good friend Mr. Charles Bingley. Bingley, this is Lady Catherine De Bourgh."
"I am very pleased to meet you Lady Catherine, Darcy has told me much of you." Bingley said, giving his most formal of bows.
Lady Catherine looked condescendingly towards Bingley, she had not liked Darcy bringing a friend, especially one with such low connections. 'But he does mention that Darcy has spoken often of me. Surely he must be very attached to Rosings and Anne.' Softening somewhat, her welcome to Bingley was much more affable than she was willing to give him when she first heard of his accompanying Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Her natural disposition however, could not be restrained for too long, and was showing in full force to an uncomfortable Bingley when the gentlemen rejoined Lady Catherine and Miss De Bourgh after freshening up.
"Mr. Darcy tells me that you have about five thousand a year." Bingley nodded at this. "It is quite a bit for a tradesman's son." Bingley's smile grew a little hesitant. "What did your father trade in to make such a sum?"
Clearing his throat, Bingley put on his best face to such impertinent questions. "Well, ma'am, my father was in charge of a carriage building business. He engineered the first barouche landau. I imagine Your Ladyship owns one of his models."
Lady Catherine was not sure whether to take his obvious assumption at her ability to own a barouche as a compliment, or whether to be horrified at the thought that he did not imply that she had several carriages. Settling on a wary suspicion, her interrogation continued.
"And your estate is in Hertfordshire, my nephew was telling me. What is its name? I can imagine that it would not be quite so grand as Rosings Park, or indeed Pemberley (with a nod towards Darcy), but a nice modest house is becoming of a tradesman's son."
Bingley smiled a little uneasily, and threw a look to Darcy. 'What else has Darcy told her?'
"I have not yet decided whether to purchase Netherfield, Lady Catherine, but it is a fine prospect. Indeed the neighbours are delightful." A little smile was playing around Bingley's mouth as he remembered a certain family, and lady of the neighbourhood.
"Indeed sir! You surprise me! My clergyman, Mr. Collins, has just come back from Hertfordshire (I understand you met him there - at which Bingley nodded) and did not have quite so favourable an opinion. He described the countryside as bearable, nothing to Rosings Park and the society quite insolent without the proper respect due to his position." Lady Catherine was quickly becoming quite annoyed with the addition of Mr. Charles Bingley.
"Indeed Your Ladyship, nothing could ever compare to Rosings Park." Mr. Collins boomed from the doorway. He swept in, bowed low to Lady Catherine, Anne and Mr. Darcy, a slightly higher bow was paid to Colonel Fitzwilliam, whilst Mr. Bingley barely received a bend, just a smirk and a nod.
All heads swivelled around to the latest addition. Lady Catherine bestowed a fond smile on Mr. Collins and his well-timed diversion.
"As I was telling my dear Charlotte this morning, any county without the benevolent presence of Lady Catherine De Bourgh is indeed lacking."
Lady Catherine was every day amazed at her choice of pastor- to think that such a man could exist within the lower rungs of society! It was usual only to find such affable and pleasing men in the upper gentility.
"Mr. Collins you are most welcome," Lady Catherine graciously accepted him into the room- 'A marked difference in her acceptance of Bingley' Colonel Fitzwilliam though wryly. "You are quite right to come to greet my nephews. Your punctuality is greatly in your favour."
Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley rolled their eyes to each other. Anne simply sat there looking dull and bored. Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins continued to bestow compliments upon each other, both with the knowledge of the great condescension of one, and the great fortune in the other of enjoying such favour. This continued for several minutes, until Lady Catherine became annoyed that her nephews had stopped attending her conversation and had started their own.
"Mr. Bingley, perhaps you would be pleased to know that Mrs. Collins came from Hertfordshire? Indeed, since you seemed to enjoy that county so much, you would accompany Mr. Collins home and become reacquainted with Mrs. Collins nee Lucas, her sister and her good friend who are staying with her. A Miss Bennet- one of Mr. Collins' cousins."
Bingley's eyes glowed at the name! "Indeed Your Ladyship is too kind. I would be most desirous of meeting them again."
Lady Catherine's eyes narrowed. She had not meant Mr. Bingley to enjoy this trip- rather as a punishment for presuming to invade her privacy. 'Miss Collins is insipid, whilst Miss Bennet is entirely too opinionated. It just shows Mr. Bingley's lack of refinement to actually look forward to such a visit!'
"Indeed Aunt, I believe Colonel Fitzwilliam and I should accompany Bingley, as I am acquainted with Miss Lucas, err, Mrs. Collins and Miss Bennet." Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded his agreement, eager to see this Miss Bennet.
Lady Catherine's disapproval of the situation was loudly proclaimed. Unfortunately it did not stop her nephews from embarking with Mr. Bingley to the parsonage.
Chapter Six: Gentleman Callers Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
Mr. Collins having run ahead to prepare the ladies allowed Darcy the time to contemplate the wisdom of this rushed decision to come see Miss Bennet. On reflection, Darcy was not sure which Miss Bennet was staying at the parsonage. Surely Miss Elizabeth was greater friends with Charlotte Lucas, and was his first conclusion when hearing that Miss Bennet was here.
'But wouldn't the eldest be the most likely visitor, being the oldest? Bingley has jumped to that conclusion- it is obvious from the silly grin on his face.' And if it is Jane Bennet, what was he to do? His reasons for inviting Bingley were expressly to avoid this meeting! But fate was obviously conspiring against him if they were to meet here despite his intentions. 'And if it is Jane, well I shall not dirty my hands any longer in trying to keep them apart. Indeed, I am unsure whether I should have deceived Bingley in the first place. It was for his best, however, and I would not have done differently if it was to occur again.'
Colonel Fitzwilliam was mentally rubbing his hands together. 'I get to meet the famous Miss Bennet! I hope she is as lovely as Bingley described. It would be jolly good fun to see what sort of woman actually meets with my cousin's approval! And I might finally hear who Bingley is so enamoured with.'
Bingley was the first to reach the parsonage, and quickly straightened his cravat and passed a hand through his hair in anticipation of seeing his lovely Jane again. Colonel Fitzwilliam was not too far behind, but was still so preoccupied in laughing at his cousin to worry about his appearance (not that he needed to concern himself), whilst Darcy was increasingly becoming nervous and anxiously twisted his signet ring (which didn't go unnoticed by Colonel Fitzwilliam, and only succeeded in increasing his amusement).
"Welcome to my humble abode my dear sirs" Collins bowed, opening the door himself.
Bingley grinned in hope as they were ushered into the morning room.
"May I present my wife, Mrs. Charlotte Collins (was Lucas), my cousin, Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Miss Maria Lucas." Collins delivered with all the pomp he could muster.
Bingley's face fell as he struggled to maintain his smile when paying his respects to the lady of the house. Darcy's feelings went from relief at it not being Jane Bennet, to a hot flush at meeting his Elizabeth again. Fortunately for him (unfortunately for everyone else who was trying to read his reaction), none of this was apparent in his outward appearance- he kept up his composure remarkably well. Colonel Fitzwilliam's eyes lit up at the sight of the dark- haired beauty before him.
Elizabeth greeted them all with composure, having been informed and prepared for their arrival. Curtseying to the gentleman, she was however glad that she did not have to speak just yet. Elizabeth had been pleasantly surprised at the arrival of Mr. Bingley, and hoped to gauge how correct her opinion of his dealings with Jane were.
Not knowing Colonel Fitzwilliam at all, she was pleasantly surprised with his openness as he started directly into conversation with her. He commanded a delightful knack of making himself pleasant with his witty observations of the journey to Kent, Rosings Park and Her Ladyship herself.
Darcy was still penned in by Mr. Collins, something that Lizzy was indeed thankful for. Darcy was enduring Collins' talk only because he was trying to desperately distract himself from Elizabeth's alluring presence. Unfortunately Mr. Collins' chatter was not conducive to such a task and so Darcy suffered banal conversation whilst suffering envy at his cousin and Elizabeth's obvious enjoyment of each other.
Bingley, having finished complimenting Mrs. Collins and reacquainting himself with Miss Maria Lucas, found that his disappointment at Miss Elizabeth, and not Jane Bennet, being here decided that if Miss Jane was not present, then Miss Elizabeth would at least have knowledge of her.
"Miss Bennet, how delightful to see you again!" Bingley exclaimed at the first pause in their conversation.
"Mr. Bingley," Lizzy smiled, despite her best attempts at disliking the man, "it is a pleasure to meet you."
"Well, I can tell that you are well." Bingley tried desperately to think of a not-so-obvious way to direct the conversation towards her sister.
"Very well indeed, sir, thank you." Elizabeth grinned, wondering if he would broach the subject of Jane.
"Ah, yes," slight pause- 'Hang it all man! I need to know!' "Pray tell me, how is your family? Are all your sisters still at Longbourn?"
Lizzy's grin appeared wider as his obvious intention. 'Perhaps he isn't to blame, and was detained (or abducted)?' Darcy looked up warily at this exchange.
"All except one, sir." Lizzy decided to prolong his anxiety. 'It is the least I can do to a man who is the means of causing my sister much more anxiety.'
Bingley's face fell so much, and he looked to heart-broken, that Lizzy took pity on him. "My sister, Jane, has been staying in London with my Aunt- have you never happened to meet her sir?"
Bingley's face showed his shock, and convinced Elizabeth of his honesty. Darcy squirmed in his seat; he did not like the way this conversation was going. 'Go away Mr. Collins!!' Darcy swore under his breath.
Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at Bingley, then back to Elizabeth, and then to Darcy. The pieces were starting to fall into place. 'The way Miss Bennet emphasised Jane is suspicious. Could it be Miss Jane Bennet that Bingley fell for? Oh, that would be rich indeed! Darce falling for the sister of the person not good enough for Bingley! It certainly explains much. I wonder if Jane Bennet is younger or older than Miss Elizabeth?'
"In London you say Miss Elizabeth?" Bingley still looked a little like a gold fish. "I had no idea, or I would have drag ... err, taken my sisters to visit their dear friend."
"Your sisters sir?" Lizzy wanted to make sure Bingley was blameless (or at least as blameless as an easily led man can be). "Why they returned my sister's call on them a few weeks ago."
"WHAT!" Bingley nearly hit the roof. Darcy's face flushed uncomfortably. Colonel Fitzwilliam was loving every minute.
"They knew of her being in London all this time and did not tell me?" Bingley's eyes narrowed. "Pray tell me, Miss Bennet, how long has your sister been in London?"
Elizabeth was by now firmly convinced of who was to blame with Bingley and Jane's separation- the superior sisters. "Above three months sir, she accompanied my Aunt and Uncle to London after Michaelmas."
Bingley's face registered his understanding of his sister's duplicity. He looked even sadder when he realised that Jane must think him so uncaring that he did not even pay his respects to her. 'I wish I could fly to London right now and get down on my hands and knees and beg her forgiveness.'
'Poor Bingley,' Colonel Fitzwilliam thought, 'Look at him- he is absolutely devastated.' Wanting to turn the conversation, Colonel Fitzwilliam enquired as to how many sisters Miss Bennet had.
"I have four sisters, Colonel. Jane is older than me, and I have three younger. Jane is such a dear thing, but I have been worried about her recently, she seems much depressed, so my aunt and I decided a little change might help her recover her spirits." This, accompanied by a meaningful look at Bingley, helped to strengthen his hope that his dear Jane may actually feel something for him, and that he was the cause of her sadness.
Meanwhile Darcy was definitely not comfortable with his chair, and with the direction that this conversation was going, so stood up and enquired as to the health of Miss Bennet's family.
Looking slightly confused at this question (Could he have totally missed the previous conversation?), Elizabeth replied that they were all well. Darcy, not being able to endure the gaze of her eyes, turned his back and looked out the window.
Elizabeth just looked even more confused. Colonel Fitzwilliam nearly laughed out loud at this display! 'Darcy is astonishing! How does he manage to look and sound so uncomfortable in society?'
"Miss Bennet, I hear you and your friends are to dine with us at Rosings Park next week. I must say I am looking forward to enjoying more lively conversation." Colonel Fitzwilliam said in an attempt to move on from an awkward situation.
Lizzy bestowed a dazzling smile at the Colonel, "And this you do not find at Rosings?"
Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed outright at her wit. 'She is absolutely lovely.' "Lady Catherine likes to talk certainly, but rarely requires a response." They shared a knowing smile. Darcy, who had turned his head to listen in to their conversation glowered. Colonel Fitzwilliam noticed this and moderated his marked attention.
Soon after, the gentlemen departed.
Chapter Seven: Visiting Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
During the next week, Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam spent many a pleasant hour with Elizabeth at the parsonage. Bingley because he felt most unwelcome at Rosings and because he was constantly looking for any tid-bits Elizabeth may impart regarding her sister. Colonel Fitzwilliam enjoyed Elizabeth's company very much, and was starting to consider whether he might fight his cousin for her affections.
Darcy did not trust himself to go to the parsonage. He was determined to forget her and tear away her influence over him forever. He was not having much luck, and instead merely tried to fight his jealousy over Colonel Fitzwilliam's obvious like of her.
Another person who was becoming increasingly worried over the Colonel's regard for Miss Bennet, was the honourable Lady Catherine De Bourgh. 'Such an upstart, pretentious young woman to be flinging herself at my nephew! To be sure, he is not quite so dear as Darcy, but being the son of an Earl, and amongst the finest soldiers in Britain, it is intolerable to think of him degrading himself and our family with such connections! I must put a stop to this.'
And so, Lady Catherine started encouraging Mr. Bingley and his attentions towards Miss Bennet. 'Indeed, it is a most advantageous match on Miss Bennet's side- she is penniless and he is quite well off. However, she is at least a gentleman's daughter (no matter what her mother's relations are), and he is simply a commoner with money! No, I believe them to be quite well matched. It must be since I have decided it so!' And with that, Lady Catherine started to expound Elizabeth's many virtues to Mr. Bingley whenever he was near, whilst reminding Colonel Fitzwilliam constantly how a second son must marry well to provide for himself.
Bingley did not mind this extra condescension on Lady Catherine's part, since it meant easier access to Miss Bennet and any delightful stories of a younger Jane. Colonel Fitzwilliam was quite amused at first because Lady Catherine was so wrong about the depth of friendship between Bingley and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He soon became a bit more annoyed however as he realised that Miss Bennet was indeed everything a man could wish for in a wife, and the constant reminders of his poor position kept throwing up his lack of certainty that he was unworthy of offering his hand to Elizabeth. He knew that although she was lovely, she was also intelligent and would realise that they would not have enough money to live on, no matter how much affection existed between them.
Darcy meanwhile started taking very long walks or rides in the countryside. He had avoided the parsonage in an attempt to rid himself of Miss Bennet, but now that his Aunt was constantly mentioning her, he found Rosings unbearable. On some of these rides and walks he met Miss Elizabeth, and her lovely face kept the memory of those sparkling eyes so close to him as they danced at Netherfield, fresh in his memory.
Mr. Collins continued in his daily meetings with Lady Catherine, and was recruited for helping her forge an attachment between Bingley and Elizabeth. However enthusiastic he was in front of her Ladyship, he did not extend this when at home. The thought that Elizabeth would ever marry someone higher in society than Mr. Collins (although Mr. Bingley did not have the honour of Lady Catherine's noble patronage) was unpalatable, and therefore Mr. Collins refrained from doing anything.
Charlotte started accompanying Mr. Collins in his morning walks to the parsonage in an attempt to give Lizzy more time with Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Charlotte knew that Lizzy would not marry Mr. Bingley, but she disapproved of the thought of Lizzy marrying Colonel Fitzwilliam. He was too poor, and it would not be a good match to be so without financial support. 'Now if he was only a General, he would do very well.' Charlotte also believed that Mr. Darcy still harboured strong feelings for her friend, but understood that if he ever wanted Elizabeth to become aware of these feelings, he should show more affection.
Another reason for her daily visits was due to Miss Anne De Bourgh. Charlotte had often felt sorry for Miss Anne when she visited Rosings, and thought that this would be a perfect opportunity of getting to know her. Charlotte was pleasantly surprised that Anne, although timid, was not spiteful and calculating like her mother, and when they were out of her mother's hearing, or even better, her sight, Anne displayed a loving nature. Charlotte soon started having doubts as to how sick Anne really was, and endeavoured to find out whether Anne's sickness was due to a physical condition, her mother's overbearing petting or as an escape mechanism for Anne to hide behind. Indeed, Anne seemed to be the least in the company of her mother, because whenever Lady Catherine started ranting about something or another, Anne merely had to cough, or go cross-eyed for her mother to send her into her room. And Anne's room was nothing if not pleasant and quiet, Charlotte decided after having been escorted there by Mrs. Jenkins one day. So Charlotte soon enjoyed visiting in the morning as much as her husband did, as Anne and she spent a quiet couple of hours together discussing books and music. That was one thing that Lady Catherine was quite correct about- Anne displayed a fine understanding and appreciation of music. Charlotte hoped to bring Anne out of her shell and out from under Lady Catherine's shadow.
Chapter Eight: Revelations Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
"Ah Miss Bennet, we find you alone once again!" Bingley smiled as he and the Colonel bowed to Elizabeth.
"Indeed you do, Mr. Bingley. Good morning Colonel." Elizabeth smiled back. She had never imagined that her stay in Kent would be quite so pleasant. Over the last week, Lizzy had again decided that Bingley was not only an agreeable man, but also perfect for her sister Jane, and was trying to keep her fresh in his memory. The Colonel too was a charming addition, quite similar to Wickham, but at the same time, infinitely more gentlemanly.
"Pray tell me Miss Bennet, have your sisters made any conquests with the officers in Meryton yet?" Bingley and Lizzy laughed. This was a common subject between the two. Bingley knew that Lydia and Kitty had a weakness for red coats, and it was always an easy way of bringing the subject to Lizzy's sisters, one of which Bingley could not hear enough about.
"Not yet, although mama has high hopes that it may soon be so." Lizzy laughed.
The Colonel, not to be left out of the conversation enquired whether any of them were quite as dashing as he was. Laughing at this, Lizzy mentioned the fact that the Colonel reminded her of an officer in the regiment quartered at Meryton.
"Indeed?" The Colonel's eyebrows shot up. "And did he conquer the hearts of every fair lady in the land? Pray tell me what his name is, so that I can remove this competition."
"I do not know about every fair lady," Lizzy responded with a look to Bingley, "but my two youngest sisters nearly swooned with delight when they heard that Mr. Wickham was to wear a red coat." Smiling at the Colonel, she was astonished to see him not smiling back. Indeed he had gone quite pale.
"Colonel? Is everything alright?"
"Mr. W ... Wickham did you say?" At Lizzy's nod, he asked, "A Mr. George Wickham?" Only then did Lizzy curse herself for mentioning his name. This was Mr. Darcy's cousin, and therefore must know a bit about what passed between the two. 'I am surprised that Colonel Fitzwilliam did not step in and make Mr. Darcy honour his father's wishes. Colonel Fitzwilliam is nothing, if not the epitome of honour. On the other hand, he may be able to enlighten me about the extent to Mr. Darcy's dishonour.'
"Yes, why? Do you know him?"
"Oh, umm, yes, I do know him. I remember him being not quite as charming as you describe him." Colonel Fitzwilliam sidestepped the question. 'Indeed, the last time I saw him he was cursing Darcy and speaking of Georgiana in the most disgusting terms.'
Elizabeth looked a little confused. "Indeed? I understood from Mr. Wickham that he and Mr. Darcy were acquainted. Did you see him much when he was living at Pemberley?"
'Oh don't believe his lies Elizabeth! Darcy will have to tell you about him, it is his private affair. A bit of warning now might not go astray however.'
"Actually, yes I did. He was forever cheating in games Darcy, he and I would play, and was constantly borrowing money from Darce. I do not understand how Darce could have put up with him for so long!"
Elizabeth was now thoroughly confused. She did not doubt Mr. Wickham's sincerity, and yet, here was Colonel Fitzwilliam painting an entirely different picture. She trusted Colonel Fitzwilliam's judgment and found him quite intelligent, and therefore could not quite dismiss his implication that Wickham was quite so spotless as he led her to believe. 'I must think about it more when I have time' Lizzy determined.
"Oh Mr. Wickham, who joined the regiment just recently?" Bingley searched his brain for a face. "Oh, yes, I remember him. Darcy was quite distressed at seeing him. He shut himself up the rest of the day, muttering to himself about his ill- luck and 'that blackguard'. I confess I did not take much notice."
"I am surprised that Darcy controlled himself that well, when they last met, Darce was quite pleased with the prospect of never seeing him again." The Colonel grimaced. "I am amazed that he could restrain himself from hitting him, I know I would not be able to control myself." The Colonel said under his breath. Bingley did not hear this, but Lizzy, being more alert, and closer did, and found this account of Wickham to be quite different to what she heard previously. 'Perhaps I may have been deceived?'
Noticing that Miss Bennet was confused, Colonel Fitzwilliam realised that she may have a poorer opinion of Darcy than he thought. It was possible that she disliked Darcy a lot, which would be quite tragic since he was losing his battle against his like for her. 'When I see them together at the dinner, I shall watch her closely to see how she feels about him.' The thought that she might not like his cousin was surprising (he was very handsome and quite a catch) and refreshing (she obviously thought about more than his wealth and status) and hopeful (perhaps he had a better chance with her than he had previously allowed himself to entertain). Not wanting to dwell too much on Darcy, the Colonel asked if she had heard any news from her family recently.
"Yes, I just received a letter from my sister, Jane". Bingley looked up at this. "She has just seen our favourite play at the theatre and was telling me all about it." Elizabeth walked over to the desk to pick up the letter.
"And what is your favourite play, Miss Bennet?" inquired the Colonel.
"Jane and I both love 'Much Ado About Nothing'. While she favours Hero, I prefer Beatrice (well, all except her name!)." Lizzy smiled in remembrance of the many arguments the sisters had had regarding why their favourite was better than the others. Bingley never took his eyes off the letter in her hand, and when she put it down on a table, he squirmed in his chair so as to get a glimpse of what Jane had wrote.
This went unnoticed by Elizabeth, but not the Colonel, who decided to distract Elizabeth so as to let Bingley read the letter. So he commented on the size of the room and the furnishings and Lizzy responded with how much care Lady Catherine had taken in fixing it exactly to her taste, if not the owners tastes.
While Lizzy was showing Colonel Fitzwilliam a painting on the far wall, Bingley caught the words,
... and dearest Lizzy, I pray that you do not worry yourself over me. I know you have been concerned about me, but truly, you should not distress yourself so. I am quite reconciled that he never truly loved me, and it was my heart alone that was in risk of being hurt. I am just so happy that I disguised my feelings for him so that all our dear family and friends will not worry about me now that it has all come to naught. Although I may safely say I will never meet a more handsome or wonderful man, I may in time meet with someone who will provide me with a comfortable home. I dread being a burden on my mother and sisters, especially if papa were to no longer be there to provide for us. I sometimes wonder if Charlotte is not right in being so content, and I wonder if mama, knowing beforehand how it would all turn out, would not have encouraged Mr. Collins to marry me instead of you. I think perhaps I would have accepted him. Although I must admit to being glad I was never presented with the choice between my heart and my head.But enough of me, I want to hear all about you and the antics of our cousin and Lady Catherine..."
Bingley quickly looked up as he realised that Lizzy and the Colonel were returning to where he sat. It would be most improper to be caught reading private correspondence. Nevertheless, Bingley was reeling with what he had read. Jane was in love with a man, and he did not return her love! The thought was utterly incomprehensible. How could anyone not love Jane dearly? This at least cleared up the reason why Jane did not show any affection towards Bingley, since her heart was already engaged elsewhere. Bingley could not help shudder at the thought of his Jane married to Mr. Collins, and was so saddened at the fact that she might marry without love, or even affection, just so she could be secure. 'Didn't she realise that I would have loved her so much and taken care of her for the rest of her life? Even if she could not love me as much as I love her, I could have provided her with a loving home and no more worries about burdening anyone. Not that you could ever be a burden to anyone, dearest Jane.'
Pulling his mind out of his own thoughts, Bingley turned his attention towards the conversation between Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam. His attention could not stay long with their conversation, and he quickly became introverted again. Elizabeth was similarly employed in trying to meditate on the dilemma of Wickham and Darcy.
Colonel Fitzwilliam was also trying to puzzle out whether he should tell Elizabeth about Wickham or allow Darcy to. Due to everyone being more conscious of their own thoughts, it took several minutes for them to realise that they were all sitting in silence. Colonel Fitzwilliam was the first to recover, and, clearing his throat, said that they had better leave and let Miss Bennet get back to her correspondence.
Chapter Nine: Bingley talks to Colonel Fitzwilliam Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
While walking back together, Bingley thought of the letter from Jane to Elizabeth and grew increasingly glum. The fact that Miss Bennet loved someone else was not as painful as the thought that there existed a man who could not love Miss Bennet.
Bingley had changed over the last few days. Miss Elizabeth Bennet's society had started to rub off on him, and he started to feel that he should depend more on his own opinion, and that he was capable of making his own decisions. This was reinforced by the behaviour of Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Colonel Fitzwilliam did not seem to be always impressed with Darcy's stature or opinions, and often out-rightly refused to do things that Darcy suggested. To Bingley, this was unheard of! And it seemed that Colonel Fitzwilliam had survived his thirty odd years of life without depending on Darcy's thoughts, and was, he grudgingly admitted, much better company than the often-silent Darcy. 'Especially in society' Bingley thought to himself. 'Colonel Fitzwilliam shows a gaiety and wit that Darcy rarely displays. Miss Elizabeth seems to enjoy being in his society- there is a stark contrast between her sarcastic responses to Darcy and her playful, fun conversations with Colonel Fitzwilliam.' It showed Bingley that you could be both an impressive, responsible (upper- class) gentleman and be happy. Most of the upper class gentleman that Bingley had associated with lent more towards the Darcy- Lady Catherine dispositions.
The lack of Darcy's company over the last few days also was a cause of his influence receding and Colonel Fitzwilliam's increasing. Indeed, the Colonel and Bingley had spent more time in each other's company than both of them had spent in Darcy's.
"So how was Miss Bennet's letter?" Colonel Fitzwilliam broke into Bingley's reverie with a grin.
"Miss Bennet's letter?" Bingley flushed slightly in embarrassment. "I did not realise it was so obvious!" he ruefully laughed.
"Oh, I could tell that as soon as Miss Bennet mentioned the word's 'I've just received a letter from Jane' you were a lost man." Colonel Fitzwilliam paused and looked at Bingley. "So what was it like? Is her penmanship as lovely as she is?"
Bingley sighed. "She has such lovely writing. It is so graceful and her phrases are so well written, with feeling, and yet not gushing." Another sigh. "But it could not compare to a vision of her in a ball gown dancing at my side."
Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at the lovesick look on Bingley's faced and laughed. "If she is such a vision of loveliness, pray, why isn't she forever at your side?" Colonel Fitzwilliam had decided to see the depth of Bingley's feelings and then to perhaps tease some information about Jane Bennet's feelings from her sister. Just to see if Darcy was correct in pulling them apart. The Colonel had no real doubts as to both of their feelings. Bingley wore his feelings on his face, and Elizabeth had hinted at Jane's depression enough to give any man (but Bingley!) the idea that Jane was suffering from a broken heart.
Bingley's face fell. "Because she does not love me."
The Colonel looked in shock at Bingley. This did not match his observations at all.
"Are you sure man? Did the lady tell you so when you asked for her hand?"
Bingley shook his head.
"Then how do you know?"
"I ... well ... My sisters,"
"Your sisters?! Those two heartless creatures?"
"Not only my sisters, but Darcy himself told me that he felt that Jane held no regard for me."
"Darcy?! What on earth does he know? Was the lady happy to talk with you?"
"Well, yes"
"Did her smile light up her eyes whenever she saw you?"
"Well, yes, I thought so."
"Did other people think you two were in love?"
"I believe so. That is why Darcy told me that he did not think it a likely match."
"Likely or good enough?" Colonel Fitzwilliam muttered under his breath.
"If you only had your own opinion on the matter to decide with. Would you say she was in love with you?" Colonel Fitzwilliam demanded.
"Err ... well ... umm..." Bingley stuttered.
Colonel Fitzwilliam raised his eyebrows.
"Yes, if you must know - I had thought she did, and was quite prepared to ask for her hand when I returned from my business in London."
"Right!" Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed. 'Dig just a bit more, let us see how culpable Darce is.' "If it was merely your sisters' opinions that Miss Jane Bennet did not love you, would that have changed your mind?"
"Well, no, they would not - I know that Caroline especially did not think much of Hertfordshire society. She and Darcy would often moan about..." Bingley suddenly realised what he was saying.
"Yes," Colonel Fitzwilliam patted him on the back, "It was because Darcy, who you trusted, told you. You did not believe him to be biased, and yet you see that he had already prejudged the people in Hertfordshire as beneath him. Put some faith into yourself. It may be possible that Miss Jane Bennet loves you."
Bingley's eyes shone with hope, then he remembered the letter. "No, it is useless! The letter I read today showed me how much she was suffering from a broken heart- she was, or is, already in love with another man, a man who does not love her back."
Colonel Fitzwilliam's eyes narrowed shrewdly. "Did she mention who this man was? Could it have been you she was referring to?"
"Me?" Bingley was surprised. "Me?!? I had never thought of that before. She did not mention names, but a time! She said that if Mrs. Bennet had not thought her already soon to be engaged, she would have forced Jane to marry Mr. Collins!" Bingley was becoming quite excited.
"Yes?"
"And Mr. Collins came during our stay in Hertfordshire, where Mrs. Bennet was known to speculate on Jane's marriage to..."
"To?"
"Me!" Bingley drew a deep breath. "If I am why she is suffering, I do not deserve such constancy! She must think me to be so cruel to her!" Bingley went from hope to despair.
"Come now man, she obviously still feels for you, and is unaware of how others prevented your union. It is possible that you could rectify the whole situation by a few words, and your presence- with her!"
"Yes! I shall depart immediately. I do not know where she is staying, somewhere in Cheapside I think ... I shall find the information from Caroline! I shall make her tell me!"
"Whoa, calm down there, son." Colonel Fitzwilliam started to appreciate the need for someone to look after Bingley. "There is another way of finding out where her Aunt lives in London."
Bingley drew a blank.
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet? Perhaps you should consult her- she would know of the reason for her sister's affliction. Plus she would have the address. She might even contrive a reason for you to call- perhaps to deliver a letter while you are staying in London?"
Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam shared a big grin.
Bingley clapped Colonel Fitzwilliam on the shoulder. "You are a true friend Colonel. I shall get to the bottom of this, and start taking my own path!" He turned back to the parsonage.
"Where are you going? You cannot just walk back in!" The Colonel shouted at him.
"Yes, I must go back- I've dropped my glove!" Bingley winked over his shoulder. Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed and walked on.
Chapter Ten: What One Finds When Searching for a Lost Glove Posted on Sunday, 3 March 2002
Lizzy was sitting exactly where she said good-bye to the Colonel and Bingley. She was still quite confused as to why Mr. Darcy would have to restrain himself from physically abusing Mr. Wickham. For all his faults, she would never consider Darcy so low as to resort to violence. 'Any man, however, in a fit of passion may be unpredictable. But what could Wickham have done to deserve this? There was never a nicer man than he!' So Lizzy thought back to their first conversation at her Aunt Phillip's card party. 'He was really quite dashing in his red coat, and smiled so nicely at me. It was really quite gratifying that he singled me out from all the party to converse so intimately. So different from that proud, disagreeable Mr. Darcy!' Gratifying, but was it quite proper? Elizabeth had to realise that it was not perhaps the most gentlemanly thing to do. That last sentence caused a bit of trouble for her as well. How much of what she had heard did she believe solely on the basis that she wanted to think ill of Mr. Darcy? '"I had not thought Mr. Darcy so bad as this- though I have never liked him, I had not thought so very ill of him- I had supposed him to be despising his fellow- creatures in general, but did not suspect him of descending to such malicious revenge, such injustice, such inhumanity as this!"' Lizzy's words to Wickham came back to haunt her.
'Indeed', she reflected, 'I had not thought really badly of Mr. Darcy - more of an amusement at parties- until Wickham's confidences. A confidence, which by its very nature was private and not something to be bandied about at a card party!' Elizabeth now regretted her enthusiasm on the subject and thought that if she had moderated her interest and her dislike of Mr. Darcy, Mr. Wickham would have been less forthcoming in his intimacies.
"Forgive me Miss Bennet," Lizzy nearly jumped from her reverie at the sound of Mr. Bingley. "Oh, I am sorry, I did not mean to startle you, merely to pick up my glove that I had left behind." And thus brandishing said glove (which had never left his hand), Mr. Bingley thought desperately of some way to turn the conversation so that he did not have to walk out of the door directly.
"No, you do not need apologise. I was just caught up with some thoughts of my own." Elizabeth managed a wan smile.
Lights flashed off in Bingley's head for an opening. "Oh I hope there was nothing bad in your letter from Ja ... Miss Bennet? You had said that she was well?"
Elizabeth smiled, "Indeed sir, she is quite well in body, if a little weary in spirit."
"Oh no, I hope nothing that will be of long duration. She seemed so happy when we were dancing together at the Netherfield ball."
"I do believe she was happy, very happy indeed. But that was probably the last time she was quite as happy. I believe it possible that she became despondent around about the same time as when you left, sir."
This was said with a pointed look. Mr. Bingley needed no more encouragement.
"Oh Miss Bennet, please, I know this is quite improper, but I have been so out of spirits myself lately, and am wondering whether Miss Jane Bennet's reasons are the same as my own?"
Elizabeth merely raised her eyebrows. Seeing that she was not going to make it easier for him, Bingley muddled through a speech that gave Elizabeth great hope that Mr. Bingley was as greatly affected by this separation as Jane, and that he was quite deserving of her continued affection.
"So you see, Miss Elizabeth, I find I am torn between my own opinion and those of people that I value quite highly, and I need to know. Does your sister hold some affection for me?"
"If by people you mean your sister and your friend, I may conjecture that their viewpoints may have been jaded by their own interests in this matter, and not your own. But I can assure you of them being completely wrong in their belief of my sister's indifference. Indeed her low spirits were caused by your going away and a letter written by your sister- it pains me to tell you- that stated your inevitable union with Miss Darcy. Jane was quite devastated by this note, but, as is her way, thought it was Caroline's kindness to warn her of the dangers in falling in love with you."
"Miss Darcy!" Bingley spluttered, "Why, she is not yet 16! And although she is a beautiful, charming, shy creature, she is like a sister to me."
Elizabeth was greatly relieved to hear this. Although she had be inclined to disbelieve Miss Bingley's hopes of a sister-in-law, she could not be certain that Mr. Bingley's affections were not otherwise engaged.
"Miss Bennet, Elizabeth?" Lizzy nodded her permission. "Elizabeth, thank you for your information. I may not be quite comfortable at Rosings (at which they both smiled), but I shall forever be indebted to Lady Catherine since I heard the sweetest words of my life (to date) here- that Jane loves me! I shall know how to act, and no one will stop me this time!"
Grinning like a fool, Bingley kissed Lizzy's hand in gratitude and walked out- this time forgetting his gloves.
Realising this, Elizabeth picked them up and ran after him. After thanking her again, Bingley said how much he was looking forward to seeing her at dinner tomorrow evening.