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Chapter Twenty-Nine: Dinner in London Posted on Monday, 15 April 2002
Bingley stood staring in his dressing mirror deciding whether he was dressed meticulously enough. 'I need to give the right impression. It has to say "I am in charge of the situation." Do not let her say a word, start strongly so I can keep my courage and say it all!' Bingley sighed nervously. In the reflection he could see his valet brushing his coat. Making some slight adjustments to his cravat, Bingley signaled that he was ready for the final touch- the coat.
"Thank you Green. So you think I am prepared?"
Jeremy Green had been with Charles Bingley ever since Mr. Bingley senior had decided that his son needed to start feeling comfortable with the privileges of a gentleman. He was ten years Bingley's senior, and over the years that he had served Bingley he had become a sort of confidant. Bingley's nature would need him to discuss things with someone and since his sisters, when around, were hardly suitable confidants; Bingley had relied upon the person who had helped him as a young man adjust to a broader social circle. Bingley felt a real friendship for his valet that went past a master- servant relationship. Jeremy smiled fondly at Bingley, remembering the first day that he had met him.
Mr. Bingley had interviewed him quite closely two or three times before begrudgingly admitting that Green was suitable. Summoning Charles, Mr. Bingley introduced the two. Charles had stood in the archway in confusion. What was he supposed to do with a manservant? He had been dressing himself quite well since he was six years old. Nevertheless Charles was to have Green for his valet, his Father had, to the embarrassment of both son and servant, waxed for more than ten minutes on the proper distinction between them.
Bingley's eyes had glazed over half way through the speech, he was used to Father's attempts at 'gentilising' his children. He was doing a fair job with Louisa and Caroline, but Bingley could not really grasp why gentlemen must act in such aloof and cold ways. Once he and his new valet had been released, Charles had timidly asked the valet whether they could just be friends.
Chuckling to himself at the memory, it was hard to reconcile the little boy who would confide in him when his father got upset, or when his mother died or just when his sisters were being particularly cruel, with the man who was taking his life into his own hands. Puffing in pride at the stronger Bingley that had returned from Rosings Park, Green assured Bingley that he would be fine.
"Just stay firm, but reasonable. Tell her that you are not going to change your mind and will not leave until she has heard you out. Hopefully you will hear the desired answer, otherwise you may have to take more drastic measures."
Bingley looked grim. Taking a slow, deep breath, he squared his shoulders and marched out the door. Entering the breakfast room, he swooped down on his prey.
"Good morning Caroline." Bingley intoned from behind her chair.
You could not hold it against him for feeling some small amount of satisfaction to see Caroline jump out of the chair, putting her hand up to hold her beating heart inside.
"Charles!" she choked, "You scared me! What are you doing still here?"
"Yes I realise that you usually have the breakfast table completely to yourself at this late hour, but I too, was late in rising this morning. No doubt from the fatigue of the journey yesterday." Trying to smile pleasantly, Bingley sat himself down at the head of the table.
Caroline looked suspiciously at him. He had been home when she returned from visiting her friends and when she had questioned him regarding Mr. Darcy, the journey, what time he had come back, anything at all regarding the visit, he had shrugged it all off, gave minimal responses saying he was fatigued and would be going to bed early. 'I hope he has not caught anything from Hunsford. Miss De Bourgh is constantly ill, I hope it is not contagious.' Her eyes widened in horror. 'I hope Charles does not come down with anything! I need him to escort me to Baroness -'s Ball on Saturday.'
"I hope you are feeling well rested." Caroline inquired hesitantly. "You gave me the impression that you were not feeling well yesterday."
'No, I am not going to die' Charles thought bitterly. It was a hard pill to swallow that his own flesh and blood were so totally different from him. He had, for years (ever since Louisa and Caroline had come of age) tried to look positively on their merits and forgive and forget their many indelicacies and nastiness, reminding himself that they had no mother to look after them at their most trying age. 'But no more!' Bingley thought about their shabby treatment of Jane. Elizabeth had not said too much on the subject, but reading between the lines, he knew that her opinion of them was quite low. He knew that she was very angry with them for the hurt they had caused her sister, and being such a good judge of character, Bingley was inclined to understand that her real thoughts on them were stronger and less in their favour than her stated opinion. Then there was Jane. Jane looking forlorn out the window. Not that he had ever really seen her looking like that, but he had an imagination, and her letter was all that was sad just as much as it was selfless and generous. 'Keep a hold of this anger old man, and let us see how decomposed I can make Caroline.'
"Actually, I was rather well yesterday, despite the long journey. I was only tired and wanted to think a few things over."
Caroline's heart rose at this. What else could Charles have to seriously think over if not for a marriage! Her marriage to Mr. Darcy! How romantic that he had taken Charles all the way to his Aunt's beautiful house to ask permission to marry her! 'I remember Charles thinking very seriously when Louisa wanted to marry Hurst.' Caroline thought, forgetting that he had actually tried to dissuade Louisa from the marriage, hearing that Hurst was not more than a pretty, fashionable young man.
"I needed to think everything through carefully before consulting you," Bingley was continuing, "especially after hearing Darcy's side."
Caroline's heart, for the second time today, nearly leapt out of her chest. All the waiting, all the preparations were finally paying off. Mrs. Caroline Darcy, how well it sounded!
Bingley was slightly perplexed at the increasingly joyous expression on his sister's face. He could not account for it, but he was not prepared to dwell on it any longer. 'Stay focused.'
"I was also a bit tired after visiting Miss Bennet yesterday at her Uncle's house in London. I had heard from Darcy that she had visited you and you her. Was she in good health? She was in wonderful health yesterday."
Caroline's eyes widened in shock. 'Miss Bennet!! What was he doing visiting her? Why had Mr. Darcy given away their little secret?'
"Mr. Da ... Darcy told you about Jane being in London?" Caroline managed to stutter out. She searched for the chair and sat herself back down. Bingley calmly patted his mouth with a serviette.
"Yes he did. We had quite a conversation." Charles let a small smile play on his lips in remembrance. "He repeated his reasons for the deceit (Caroline flinched slightly at the emphasis) but in the end, he wished me all the best for courting Miss Bennet."
"Cour ... courting Miss Bennet?!" Caroline exclaimed. "But brother, surely you do not mean that country..."
"No Caroline!" Bingley interrupted rising slowly from his seat. He was going to control the direction of conversation. "I did not allow Darcy to deter me from my course this time, and I will certainly not allow you to do so. Out of curiosity, what were your reasons for disliking Miss Bennet? In Hertfordshire she was worthy of your intention, but not in London? You barely acted civilly to her by returning her call at such a late date."
"Charles, Miss Bennet was ... is ... a nice girl, but she cannot compare with London society. In the wilds of the country, perhaps a ..."
"Caroline, I certainly hope you are not as duplicitous as this! To befriend someone in one location and disown them in the next! Of course Miss Bennet cannot compare with London society! She is it's superior in every imaginable way! She is sweet, charming, modest, and beautiful. She may not be the most accomplished lady but she does not pretend to read, embroider, paint screens and I know not what else just to be considered so (Caroline flushed at this). As for airs, which I have sometimes heard you called being refined, I have never perceived a benefit for pretense!"
He slowly walked closer to Caroline's chair.
"Darcy went through all the arguments you could possibly think of and more! By the end of our discussion he came to realise how inconsequential the arguments were when faced with the reality that I love her. Yes Caroline, I love Miss Bennet! You may not be able to understand this emotion, but the other, more material considerations you both placed in front of me are not quite so hopeless at you presented. Miss Bennet has been brought up like a gentlewoman indeed she is a lady. She may be poor, but so were we without the trappings and status of a gentleman! You may think that money is all a person needs- I know you are hoping on it. But what proper gentleman, being brought up in a society that sneers on the new rich would consider you unless he needs to prop up his dwindling fortune? You have blinded yourself with the knowledge of your superiority. You are not superior! You are a woman with connections- an entire history in trade and a dowry paid by trade! You have been given the best possible education a woman can receive and an introduction to what is considered the best society, and instead of being thankful for the rise in our fortunes, you scorn others who have been less fortunate!"
Caroline was sitting very still, her mouth open in surprise and mortification. Once or twice she had tried to get a word in edgewise but to no avail. Torn between being affronted by Charles' treatment of her, and slight twinges of guilt at what he was saying, Caroline knew that she had to have time to reflect. It was rare that Charles stood up to anyone, and it seemed that he had argued with Mr. Darcy and was now berating her.
Leaning down to look her directly in the face he said, "I would strongly advise you to rethink your ways and welcome Miss Bennet and all her family sincerely the next time you meet, or it may be quite a while before you shall meet them in my house because you shall not be welcome!"
And with that threat he left the room. It was only when he got back to his room that he let himself collapse on the bed, sweat pouring from his forehead. Taking a deep sigh he wondered if he was perhaps a bit harsh with her. He loved Caroline, but wanted her to realise that the artificial self she had put on was neither endearing nor acceptable. As a child she had been all that was good-natured and even-tempered, but as their fortunes increased, so did her ego. Rubbing his head from the strain, Bingley sighed again. It was only 10:30 which meant a whole day was before him before he could find solace in a dinner with his hopefully-to-be-fiancé.
Brother,
A most alarming report reached me today regarding your son, Richard Fitzwilliam. I must tell you how disappointed I am with him! There must have been something grievously wrong in his upbringing; no doubt, your wife has been a bad influence! I told you not to marry that woman! But I digress.Your son has formed an attachment with a most unsuitable woman! A poor, country nobody who has used what little charms she has to bewitch him into forgetting what he owes to himself and his family. I shall never acknowledge them if they marry, which I doubt, since you, good brother, shall talk some sense into the boy. Approach it delicately, for I have not spoken to him yet, in case he has not formed an attachment yet. I would not wish to put ideas into his head!
My dear nephew Darcy was quite shocking in some of his remarks when I asked him for help when addressing the young lady, a Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He had the audacity to pronounce she would be a perfect wife for a gentleman. Now I do not wish to provoke a fit brother, but you must speak to Fitzwilliam about his lack of understanding regarding marriages. I knew it was not a good idea to let him continue on without further instruction when Anne died. William Darcy never knew how to raise children properly! I must insist that Georgiana comes to Rosings Park after she stays with you to remove her whilst her brother has such odd notions. I dare not think what other bad habits she may have picked up!
I should also alert you to Fitzwilliam's upcoming marriage to Anne. After this escapade with Richard, I dare not let him tarry any longer and will extract a promise from him next time I am in London. Then I shall announce the banns. I am planning this winter for the wedding ceremony.
I pray that I am not too late, and you can extract a promise from Richard, one that the country snitch never gave, that is, to never enter into such an engagement! She has no money, no connections (except in trade!) and nothing that should tempt a man of Richard's situation. Deal with the matter David, and swiftly!
Yours, etc
Lady Catherine De Bourgh
David Fitzwilliam, the Earl of Matlock, rubbed he forehead wearily. Running his eyes over the letter once more, he frowned in disappointment. 'It's about time I spoke to that boy!' He quickly left a note for his wife, rose, kissed her as she lay there sleeping and left their room to find his steward. He would be leaving for London tonight!
"Thank you Green," Bingley stated as he shrugged into his dinner coat. "How do I look?"
Jeremy smiled. "Very dashing sir, I am sure your lady will melt into your arms at the sight of you."
Bingley's grin grew very silly at the thought. Then was replaced by nervousness. Marriage was a lifelong, serious commitment. He knew that he was willing to enter into it, but was Jane? Would they make a good couple? What about children? Was he ready to be a father?
Jeremy could see that Bingley was, for the second time today, in need of reassurance.
"If I may say so sir, I am sure that once you have her answer everything else will grow in time. There is no need to worry about the future, because with her by your side it will no longer be just your future to worry about. It will be both of your futures and you will be able to lean on the other to decide what to do."
Bingley smiled in appreciation, reminding himself that Green deserved an even bigger bonus this year. "Thank you. Hopefully my future will be very bright when I return home. No, I am determined that it shall be!"
Bingley entered into the darkness of night and alighted from his darkened carriage to be admitted to a warm brightness that was in slight confusion.
There stood Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss De Bourgh a little out of place whilst Elizabeth and Jane were hugging each other tightly. Both women had the largest smiles on their faces. Elizabeth's eyes twinkled and Jane's presence exuded real joy at beholding her closest confidant again.
"Oh Lizzy! What wonderful time you made! Just in time for dinner." Jane was enraptured. Tonight would be perfect- she would have her sister with her whilst she faced Mr. Bingley.
Turning to face Mr. Darcy and company, she started to extend an invitation to dine with them when she caught sight of Mr. Bingley.
This caused everyone else to see what was making Jane blush and soon Bingley found four pairs of eyes (Jane did not look up again) looking at him. All with varied emotions. Elizabeth's were sparkling merrily and Darcy's were not that far off. Colonel Fitzwilliam was amused and Miss De Bourgh slightly confused.
"Ah, yes, hello everyone." Bingley managed.
"What a pleasure it is to see you again Mr. Bingley" Jane stated quietly, looking up slightly. Their gazes locked. Anne suddenly understood and moved closer to Colonel Fitzwilliam in the happiness that anyone in love feels for others who are similarly in love. Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled down in satisfaction, not only for Bingley, but also for his beautiful fiancé.
This left Darcy and Lizzy to stand slightly uncomfortably. Lizzy was happy for her sister, but could not look at Mr. Bingley and her for long, nor could she interrupt Anne's tête-à-tête with Colonel Fitzwilliam, so she hesitantly looked to Mr. Darcy to see a small smile play across his face as he approvingly looked at Bingley and Jane. This caused Elizabeth to smile in appreciation at him for having changed his mind about her sister. Darcy, aware that she was looking at him, turned and met her gaze steadily, not changing his look of approval. Lizzy blushed and her eyes darted every which way to avoid those dark eyes. Darcy's small smile grew a little wider in satisfaction.
Mrs. Gardiner entered, she was running slightly behind schedule because Cook had found a few problems acquiring an extra pheasant and so had just been able to reach the door to greet the guest, she assumed that it was only Mr. Bingley, and so was astonished to find half a dozen young people standing there.
"Elizabeth!" Mrs. Gardiner came forward to greet her niece.
"Aunt Gardiner!" Lizzy responded warmly, embracing her. "It is so good to see you again." Turning, she said, "May I present to you Mr. Darcy and his cousins Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss De Bourgh. Mr. Bingley has only just arrived a few minutes after our arrival."
Mrs. Gardiner's eyes grew round at such illustrious personages. "You are very welcome. Please, join us for dinner?"
Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne were not sure whether they should impose or not, but Darcy had not had enough of Elizabeth for today and so accepted on behalf of them all. Elizabeth beamed in happiness at the thought that Mr. Darcy was willingly spending time with her relations in trade. Perhaps she could also get some time alone with Anne to ask her how her walk with the Colonel had gone. They had both been very secretive about what had occurred, but it was obvious that they had both come to a better understanding.
Motioning for her guests to precede her into the dining room, Mrs. Gardiner linked arms with Elizabeth, determined to glean some information from her about her visit, and the acquaintances she brought with her. Madeleine was quite curious to know how Mr. Darcy had ever acquired such a black character in Hertfordshire. He seemed to be perfectly amiable and handsome.
"I am sorry for the short notice Aunt, by inviting guests into your home, but I found that I missed Jane and you all too much to stay with Mr. Collins any longer!"
Mrs. Gardiner raised her eyebrows in question, not at all satisfied with her motivation.
Lizzy noticed that her Aunt was regarding her closely, and fell silent. Smiling wanly, she gave her Aunt a quick hug and whispered that she would tell all later.
Mrs. Gardiner was forced to accept this, as she needed to act the perfect hostess to such distinguished guests. Luckily, she had made the children eat earlier, which was not normally the case. Motioning for everyone to be seated, Madeleine made quick introductions to her husband. Mr. Gardiner was indeed surprised to be eating with such people. However, both Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, being people of sense and education, were not daunted by their rank and situation and conversed quite easily with the young people for the first two courses.
Elizabeth looked around happily. Everything was perfect- Jane and Bingley were seated across from one another and they could not help but glance at each other every now and then. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne were discussing something quietly, with some inputs being made by Mrs. Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner and Darcy were also discussing business and fishing amongst other things. Elizabeth, always proud of her uncle and aunt couldn't help but be pleased that here were some relations she need not blush for.
Darcy was having a very pleasant evening. He was seated near to Elizabeth and was happy to look at her whenever there was a lull in conversation. Mr. Gardiner impressed Darcy with a fine understanding of his business and it so happened that they not only both enjoyed fishing, but were investing in the same trade.
Bingley, however happy, was feeling very nervous. He had hoped to ask Jane a very important question, but now with her sister and his friends here, there were suddenly too many people and too much going on. Not that he was begrudging Jane her sister- he knew how happy she was that Elizabeth had returned. He knew as well, that Elizabeth would help him win Jane, but it was just so very awkward.
He then realised that they had not spoken since being seated. Jane looked uncomfortable and confused. 'Bingley, get a grip! She is going to think you a simpleton if you do not try to talk to her'. He just could not think of anything to speak about (other than his proposal, which was not the ideal conversation at a dinner table!). A picture of Jane, as she was sitting yesterday reading to her cousin flittered through his mind, and so he jumped at it for a conversation starter.
"Do you often read to your cousins Miss Bennet?"
Jane looked up and smiled in relief. She had thought for a moment that they would eat the entire dinner without speaking.
"Yes Mr. Bingley. I find that reading to children is such a pleasant pastime."
Bingley instantly thought of Jane reading to their children. Knowing he must stay focused, he said, rather loudly, "There is nothing I like better than a nursery rhyme!"
Everyone turned to regard him quite strangely. Elizabeth smiled fondly, whilst Darcy and Richard were trying hard to stifle a laugh.
"What nursery rhyme were you reading Jane?" Elizabeth asked, having followed bits and pieces of everyone's conversations.
"Cinderella." Jane smiled. "You know Laura is never happy until she has read it at least once a day."
Elizabeth laughed.
Jane ventured on bravely. She was becoming very disconcerted by the constant attention from Mr. Bingley.
"I have always felt sorry for the wicked step- mother and ugly step- sisters (if they were so very wicked and ugly). I am sure there was some sort of misunderstanding and the step- mother was not quite so bad."
Everyone laughed at this.
Elizabeth and Anne smiled quite wickedly at each other.
"The mother and sisters got exactly what they deserved after treating Cinderella so abominably." Anne stated.
Elizabeth agreed. "Dear Jane is too good, she would have everyone believe the best in everyone else. I find more fault with the sisters however for not treating her with respect. The mother was horrible, but there is nothing much to be done for her to mend her ways, but the sisters should have seen how kind and considerate Cinderella was and would have, I am sure, come to love her dearly."
Darcy smiled at Lizzy's obvious affection for her sister.
"Well, I always felt for poor Cinderella the most, having to put up with such mother and sisters, whilst being so refined and beautiful herself." This with a pointed look at Elizabeth. "I am just glad that the Prince looked beyond her poverty and appearance and was ecstatically happy to spend the rest of his life with such a woman."
"Mr. Darcy, you have read Cinderella?" Elizabeth dared to tease him.
Smiling broadly, Darcy admitted that he had, quite a few times.
"Darcy was in love with Cinderella when young, I am sure" Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed, "the number of times he requested the story to be read! Oh do not glare at me so, cousin, I admit that I too, enjoyed it. It must appeal to the chivalrous nature of men."
Anne and Lizzy rolled their eyes at this comment.
"I have always thought that the Prince was extremely lucky to find his Princess. I have always believed that Cinderella must have been very high born to act so kindly in spite of everything. The Prince shows an admiring amount of courage to continue to seek a woman so perfectly suited to him despite adversity."
Jane blushed deeply as Bingley's meaning became apparent by the look he was directing at her.
"But," the Colonel interrupted their look, "I have always felt sorry for those in the reverse situation- where there is a wonderful Princess and a poor man who has no hope of gaining the woman he loves."
Anne smiled gently at him and commented, "if their love was strong, it could overcome any obstacles, even a daunting mother." (there was always Gretna Green :P).
Mrs. Gardiner, looking around at so many flushed faces, nearly laughed out loud. 'Were people in love really this obvious?' she thought to herself.
"Well, it is only a fairy tale, and I for one never really enjoyed it myself. I infinitely preferred the Little Mermaid."
"Oh no Aunt, please do not say that!" Jane exclaimed. "The poor little mermaid, I always cry after reading that story. There is no happy ending!"
Everyone smiled at Jane's distress.
"On the contrary Jane, once I had grown up and read it as an adult, I felt that it was an uplifting story of self- sacrifice and love. The little mermaid acted quite foolishly at the beginning, but her love for the Prince was so overpowering that, in the end, she willingly gave him up, when he was obviously happy with his situation. And the ending was not bad, it was melancholy, but there was hope for her."
The other members of the table seemed unconvinced however.
Mrs. Gardiner laughed at their disappointed faces. "Real life does not turn out like a fairy tale, although you can find true love without needing to be a Prince or a Princess."
Mr. Gardiner smiled at his lovely young wife. He was slightly concerned about her view of the romantic, but would wait until later to discuss it with her.
The final courses past swiftly with the couples discussing various topics. Mrs. Gardiner finally asked the other ladies if they would care to accompany her to the Drawing room for tea.
Bingley, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam followed with their eyes their ladies as they left the room. Mr. Gardiner smiled in amusement at the obvious attraction he saw. Bingley's affection was a known quantity, Colonel Fitzwilliam was a stranger and therefore not of much interest, but Mr. Darcy's obvious attraction to Lizzy was something of a surprise, as was the man himself. In Hertfordshire the populace was firmly set against him calling him arrogant and proud. Lizzy herself was disgusted by his manners and the way he had treated Mr. Wickham. And yet here stood Mr. Darcy tonight, dining with a family whose situation was decidedly below his own and enjoying it. Smiling to himself, he cleared his throat to get the gentlemen's attention and started pouring some port.
The ladies meanwhile were happily settled with cups of tea. Jane was feeling quite content. Her conversation with Mr. Bingley, or Charles as she blushingly referred to him in her mind, had been very pleasing after the initial awkwardness. She felt as much in love with him as she had a few months before, and was starting to gain hope that he too may still feel for her somewhat. Perhaps she should take some of Lizzy's advice in her letter the day before and let a bit more of her feelings show?
Mrs. Gardiner was sipping contently at her tea watching Jane alternate between blushing and smiling at her thoughts. Madeline knew that Mr. Bingley and Jane would be a perfect match and hoped that he would not take too long before declaring his love and offering marriage. She felt sure that he was on the verge of proposing and so thought of ways in which she could allow them time alone. Her thoughts traveled to Elizabeth as she sat talking quietly with Miss De Bourgh. Their friendship surprised her somewhat. Not that anyone could be a friend with Lizzy, but because it was Miss De Bourgh, the daughter of the (in)famous Lady Catherine De Bourgh whom she had heard so many stories from Lizzy and indirectly, Mr. Collins. Yet here sat Miss De Bourgh, quiet to be sure, but quite at ease with Lizzy and friendly and gracious towards everyone else.
Lizzy was sitting with Anne, trying to glean some information about the walk earlier this afternoon with Colonel Fitzwilliam. But apart from many blushes, all that Anne would say was that they discussed her 'health' problem and had resolved some childhood issues. Elizabeth was not satisfied and was about to push for more details when the men were announced. Although slightly disappointed that she could not possibly expect Anne to reveal anything in front of so many people, she was happily distracted by the man of the conversation himself and his cousin approaching.
Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled broadly at Anne and claimed the seat nearest her, which left Darcy to seat himself by Elizabeth. Richard immediately drew Anne into a private conversation which left Lizzy nothing to do but converse with Mr. Darcy. She was saved the task of thinking of a topic to converse by the gentleman starting the conversation for her.
"You love your sister Jane very much do you not Miss Elizabeth?" Darcy asked, recalling her comments about Cinderella at dinner.
Elizabeth looked to Jane who was smiling in welcome as Mr. Bingley sat by her, and smiled in genuine sisterly affection.
"Well, Miss Elizabeth, I do believe you do not need to tell me what your answer is, as anyone can plainly see by your smile what it would be." Darcy said gently, a tinge of jealousy. Lizzy's smile had been beautiful, a smile of true love, devotion and tenderness. He just hoped one day that she would reserve those smiles for him alone.
Elizabeth directed a small smile at Mr. Darcy. "Yes, sir, I love my sister very much. We have always been very close and have confided everything over the years. She has such angelic goodness, I have never known her equal for sweetness of temper!" Lizzy noticed that Darcy was trying not to laugh. "Whatever is the matter sir? What have I said that was so terribly funny?"
Darcy laughed, flashing his dimples, "Nothing at all Miss Elizabeth, you merely reminded me of Bingley! He has spoken of nothing else for months now."
Both faces clouded at the memories of the harsh words spoken that morning at Rosings, when they had last spoken of Bingley and Jane.
'Let us move past this' Lizzy thought, knowing that if they were to become good friends they would have to stop becoming awkward in every conversation due to a bad memory. Every conversation they had on their walk had come to an awkward pause until one of them turned the conversation to a new topic.
"Perhaps he can speak some of this to Jane then?" Lizzy smiled up at Darcy. He relaxed and smiled in return. 'Could it be that she has forgiven me my interference?'
"I believe Bingley no longer requires my help and is trying to convince Miss Bennet of his attachment. I am very happy for them both! I look forward to knowing her more."
"I am very happy that you feel this way, Mr. Darcy, and I am also extremely happy for both of them. I believe I have you to thank for inviting Mr. Bingley to Rosings Park. If not for this invitation I would not have had the chance to come to know Mr. Bingley as well as I do now. I do not know what would have happened with Jane and Mr. Bingley if not for Rosings. My trip has been much more pleasant than I expected."
"I am sure something would have happened to bring them together eventually." Darcy smiled, knowing that they were finally working towards a better understanding.
Mr. Gardiner approached his wife, passing three happily occupied couples, to make a fourth. Mrs. Gardiner looked up with love at Mr. Gardiner.
"And how was the conversation with the gentleman, my dear?"
Mr. Gardiner laughed, knowing his wife wanted any insights he could glean from the gentlemen. "There was little conversation, I believe the other gentlemen were occupied with other thoughts. So we sat in silence for a few minutes, Colonel Fitzwilliam and I started a brief conversation on the political situation in London with a few comments by Darcy. Bingley merely sat there as if reciting an important speech." They both smiled broadly at this and looked over to Jane.
"We shall have to manage to leave them alone for a while somehow."
Mr. Gardiner did not approve of his wife sounding like his sister. "No Madeline. We shall not interfere. Jane would not like us to leave her in an awkward position, and Mr. Bingley needs to prove that he is capable of being independent and a master of his own fate. If he wishes to propose, let him organise how he shall and when. He should not need any help from anyone."
Mrs. Gardiner begrudgingly agreed. "We shall speak more of this later, dear, but for now I believe some music would not hurt anyone." And so saying, she walked over to Lizzy and asked if she would entertain the company with a song.
Elizabeth looked slightly disappointed to leave her conversation with Mr. Darcy, but seeing his and Anne's hopeful looks complied with her Aunt's request.
Darcy settled himself comfortably in his chair and watched Elizabeth's performance. Jane and Bingley sat in companionable silence admiring Lizzy's simple Irish ballad. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne, although happy for the entertainment, derived more from looking at Darcy's open admiration for Elizabeth. They also were happy to shyly hold hands whilst everyone was absorbed by the performance.
Towards the end of the song, Richard noticed that Anne was looking quite tired, and quietly informed Darcy of their desire to leave soon. Darcy was sad to leave, but knew he should comply with his cousin's request. He then realised that Georgiana did not know that he had come home and felt slightly ashamed of his neglect. Thus when Elizabeth finished, they all rose and Darcy announced their intention to leave.
Elizabeth's eyes, shining from her performance of one of her favourite songs, lost some of their shine, but she nodded in understanding. Darcy saw all this and was content.
"Thank you for your hospitality Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner" Darcy tore his eyes from Elizabeth to speak to his host and hostess. "I was hoping that you and your nieces would consent to dine with my cousins and I in two days time?"
Lizzy's face fell. "I am sorry Mr. Darcy, but Jane and I are leaving for Hertfordshire that morning."
Darcy was disappointed, but did not despair. "In that case, would tomorrow night be convenient?"
The Gardiner's smiled at his persistence and decided to reward it with their acceptance, on behalf of their nieces as well.
"Excellent!" Darcy declared. "Bingley, would you like to come as well?"
"There is nothing I would enjoy more!" Bingley declared, grinning.
"Not even a nursery rhyme Mr. Bingley?" Jane teased.
Everyone laughed, whilst being slightly astounded at Jane's manner.
"Indeed Miss Bennet, I do declare those statements often, and for a variety of events, but believe me there are quite a few things I enjoy more and would like more than a nursery rhyme." Bingley grinned quite wickedly, "Unless of course, you were reading one to me."
Jane's eyes grew wide as she blushed profusely at this shockingly bold statement. Elizabeth was taken quite aback by it, but was heartily approving his newfound confidence.
Bingley spent a few seconds savouring Jane's blushes and then declared that he would accompany Darcy and company as they were leaving.
"I look forward to seeing you all again," Darcy said to all, whilst looking particularly at Lizzy. "I would very much like to introduce my sister, Georgiana to you tomorrow night." Now it was Lizzy's turn to colour, as she curtseyed a good-bye and thank you.
Once the guests had departed, Lizzy and Jane both declared how tired they were and retired together after thanking their aunt and uncle for a wonderful night. Mrs. Gardiner let Lizzy have this night to order her thoughts before demanding some answers.
Chapter Thirty: The Sister's Reunite Posted on Monday, 29 April 2002
The girls had many things to discuss so both prepared quickly for bed. They usually would have gone to Jane's room to chat, but since they shared a room at their Aunts, they both settled comfortably on the bed and waited for the first person to begin.
Surprisingly, Jane took the first opportunity to ask Lizzy to account for her comments in the letter for "some of your comments were too shocking to show to Aunt Gardiner, and I am sure she is quite suspicious of what you wrote."
Lizzy laughed and hugged her sister. "Dear Jane, you surely cannot mean Mr. Bingley! His intentions are quite apparent! You have captured his heart- he expressed his intentions to me the day he left for London..." Lizzy stopped abruptly at the pain in Jane's eyes. "Whatever is the matter dearest?"
Jane struggled to contain her jealousy. It was a new emotion for her. "I ... oh Lizzy, he has not expressed anything to me! All I have heard is that he spent a lot of time with you and had a fabulous time talking with you. You and he are quite intimate, and ..." she sobbed brokenly.
Lizzy looked concerned, but also amused. "Jane," she said quite firmly, pulling her up into a sitting position. "Look at me." Jane slowly raised her eyes, ashamed already at her outburst. Lizzy sighed. "We have become quite close, but only because we spoke about you all our topics were about you! Indeed had I wanted to talk to him about something else, I could not have! He is quite determined to have you!"
Jane sniffled. "Then why has he not spoken to me?"
"Jane, when have you been alone together? I doubt the conversation he wants to have with you would be fitting for others to hear."
"Well, we have not been alone yet. But what about his ... his eng ... engagement to M .... Miss Darcy?" Jane finally let her largest concern out. "I do not want to hope again like last time when he did not return!" Jane allowed herself to cry.
Lizzy held Jane as she let all her past pain and frustration out. After a few minutes, when Jane started to subside, Lizzy gently sat her up. Raising her chin so Jane looked straight at her, Lizzy spoke gently, "Jane, Mr. Bingley does not love Miss Darcy. He told me when I spoke to him about Miss Bingley's letter to you. He was quite shocked and adamant. He loves you. You, Jane Bennet!" Jane smiled slowly. "Now I want you to promise me something Jane?"
She nodded. Lizzy smiled sadly. She had to tell Jane everything.
"The last time when he did not return to Netherfield was because some of his friends convinced him that you did not love him."
Jane was shocked. "I did not love him?!" she exclaimed. "I was hopelessly devoted to him! How could he think that I gave him all my attention without any of my heart?"
"I know you did, papa knew you did, Charles thought you did, but you do not show your emotions to everyone, and that is a good thing Jane! I show too many of my emotions (Lizzy thought about her many saucy speeches to Darcy), but sometimes it is important to make someone certain of your regard." Lizzy released Jane. "Show Bingley that you love him. If nothing else, it should speed him up! He seems to be taking his time!"
Both girls broke out in laughter. Jane hugged Lizzy in gratitude.
"Dear Lizzy, I do not know what I would do without you."
Lizzy smirked, "you shall have to start learning how to soon, for we shall be separated!"
Jane's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Why, Lizzy," she said innocently, "You did not tell me that you were engaged! I must say I cannot fault you your choice however. Mr. Darcy has ten thousand pounds a year (perhaps more!) think of the pin money! The jewels!!" Jane was doing her very best imitation of Mrs. Bennet.
Elizabeth's cheeks were scarlet! "Jane Bennet!" she choked. "Do not even jest in such a manner! Mr. Darcy can have no thoughts of me! I am merely a poor country nobody. I have nothing to tempt a man of such consequence."
Jane had been joking somewhat, although she felt Mr. Darcy to be very tempted by Lizzy, she had not known what Elizabeth's opinions were. 'Very satisfactory!' Jane thought to herself. 'Lizzy's reaction shows just how much she likes Mr. Darcy. What a turn around from a few months ago! Charles was certainly right about those two. But what about poor Mr. Wickham?'
"A country nobody? My dear Lizzy, you do not realise that you not only insult yourself, but I and our sisters as well!" Jane forced herself to look disapproving.
Lizzy, quite adapt at teasing others but not accustomed to being teased herself, thought Jane in earnest, and hurriedly made amends.
"Jane, you have your beauty and sweetness of manner. I am a simple country miss with a sharp tongue. I have misjudged and treated him so badly. You would be so ashamed of me Jane." It was Lizzy's turn to become teary-eyed.
Jane scolded herself for teasing her sister. "I am sorry my dear Lizzy, I was not being serious, just teasing. What happened at Hunsford? You went sure in your hatred of him, and now you come back humble and not worthy?"
"Oh Jane, I was so horrible to him and he bore all my barbs like a gentleman. I did dislike him, everyone in Hertfordshire did! But in Hunsford he was quite different. Oh he still spoke seldom in company, but with Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins, no one spoke much! Out of company, when we were alone, he, although awkward, showed a different side. When he spoke of his estate, Pemberley, there was a softening and I must admit I was amazed to see the transformation. But then we had a disagreement and I shouted some very unjust and unkind things to him.
"Our next meeting, I was shouting at Lady Catherine (Lizzy winced) and he defended me Jane! Oh it was amazing!! (her eyes shone in remembrance) Lady Catherine had somehow got the notion, as I told you in my letter, that Colonel Fitzwilliam and I were engaged- I still do not know how she thought that, but she did- Lady Catherine stormed out and demanded that I agree never to marry Colonel Fitzwilliam, that it was a disgrace for him to marry so beneath him- with relations in trade! It was horrible Jane. I know our mother is not the most genteel person, but for someone so wholly unconnected with the family saying such things about her, I got angry. (Jane gave her hand a squeeze) And then there was Mr. Darcy upbraiding his Aunt for her opinions! Lady Catherine stormed off, and then he apologised for his Aunt and his ungentlemanly behaviour that morning! He did not need to apologise it was I that acted horribly to him!
"I was so ashamed of myself. When I heard about Mr. Wickham's lies it was the final straw. I was utterly crushed! I! Who had always prided myself on her judgment! I was mortified and I had no Jane to comfort me." The sisters shared a smile.
"What about Mr. Wickham's lies, Lizzy?" Jane inquired gently.
And so Elizabeth briefly sketched the information that she had received from Mr. Darcy. She quickly came back to Mr. Darcy's gentleness in relating the news and how kind it was of him to leave her to digest the information.
"He was the perfect gentleman. I am determined to erase Hertfordshire's bad opinion of him, especially since most of it is due to me!" Lizzy declared.
Jane laughed. "I doubt that it is all your fault! The community disliked him for not talking to them. It is not your fault that they took this as snobbery not shyness or reserve. I am glad you like him better now. I always felt that he must be a good man."
Lizzy smiled fondly at Jane. "I wish I had more of your nature, Jane! What would have happened if I was more disposed to look kindly on people instead of judging them harshly?"
"We shall never know Lizzy! You are incapable of not giving an opinion!"
Lizzy laughed heartily at this picture of herself and hit her sister with her pillow.
"I am so happy to be back with you Jane. Charlotte can never be the same confidant- she has her new life with her husband and home. I am sorry for her though, because she despaired of finding a better match in temperament and understanding."
"Yes, I know Lizzy, it is sad. But I am happy that she is comfortably situated. Perhaps she can help Cousin Collins become less talkative." They both made the mistake of looking at each other.
The laughter was loud enough to make an exasperated Aunt Gardiner come in and ask the girls to settle down. "I do not want the children to be woken up, otherwise you two can look after them until they fall asleep!"
Properly chastened, the sisters apologised and wished their aunt a good night. Kissing each other on the cheek, she left them.
"Now Lizzy, I believe we should get some sleep. I am sure you are very tired from your carriage ride."
The carriage ride. The walk in the park. Lizzy distracted now, kissed Jane goodnight and snuggled under the covers. Rolling on her side, Lizzy became lost in recollections of her walk with Darcy.
They had not spoken of anything in particular- both had been too uncomfortable about approaching any topic of substance. Lizzy only remembered that she had spent most of the walk with flushed cheeks. The smile he wore for most of the walk seemed almost content, that he was satisfied with himself. Lizzy could not argue that he was an extremely handsome man, especially when he smiled at her. He also had slight dimples when his smile was large enough. The power of his dimples could not compare with his dark eyes, however. They conveyed so much meaning if read properly. Had she been oblivious to those eyes in Hertfordshire? She had known that he followed her with his eyes many times, but had passed it off for disapproval. Now that she knew him better, she could not mistake that his eyes carried the opposite feeling.
Tossing in bed in annoyance, she tried thinking of something else. 'I shall never get to sleep if I think of Mr. Darcy!' But what else was there? He was such an enigma to her. Fascinatingly complex. 'I do not want to puzzle him out!' she cried to herself, knowing it to be a lie. 'I am afraid that I shall understand that those looks of approval mean something more.' Said one side of her brain. 'But why should you worry about that?' persisted the other. 'Because I do not want Mr. Darcy to feel strongly for me, and do not ask me why! Because I do not love him in return! An unequal affection is no basis for any sort of friendship. If he wishes more than I can give, we will both suffer.'
'Why do you feel nothing for him? Why do you dislike him so much?'
'I do not dislike him! I did. I feel gratitude towards him for liking me enough to bear with my cutting remarks. I admire him as one of the best gentleman of my acquaintance. But admiration, like, it is not enough.'
'Why do you think he loves you? Are you sure you are reading him correctly? Perhaps you are being proud.'
Lizzy flushed slightly. Mr. Darcy, if she had been reading him correctly in their walk yesterday, had seemed to want to declare himself. He certainly had acted the confidant beau. 'But what if I am wrong? What if he was merely making conversation? What else could the man mean by asking me if I wished to be settled too near my family?'
Lizzy moaned. Why did she constantly have to be arguing, delving deeper into things? Why could she not just be content with feeling happy that she found Mr. Darcy not quite as bad as he was?
'Maybe he does not love me! Maybe I am wrong! Perhaps I have been driven mad by my incessant brain!?! I admit it, I am flattered if I am correct, and he does like me! Happy? Now leave me alone!!' and so Lizzy turned over once more, threw her pillow over the top of her head and eventually managed to get some sleep.
"Are the girls in bed now Madeline?" Mr. Gardiner moved over to accommodate his wife in their bed.
Smiling in exasperation as she settled under the covers, Mrs. Gardiner turned and replied in the affirmative.
"It feels like they are one of the little ones on Christmas Eve- too excited to go to bed and needing calming down!"
Mr. Gardiner chuckled. "Well, they have just spent a month or so apart, so I am sure they were very interested in hearing all about what the other one had been up to."
Mrs. Gardiner arched her eyebrow at his explanation. "I am sure that is the only thing to keep them up! I think it is more likely the effect of two gentleman callers tonight."
Mr. Gardiner shrugged, not wanting to give his wife the satisfaction that he was interesting in gossiping about the suitors of his nieces.
Mrs. Gardiner knew Mr. Gardiner too well however, and playfully slapping him on the arm, chastised him for not looking after his nieces.
"Not looking after my nieces!" he spluttered. "Did I not promote Jane's stay in London? Did I not welcome Mr. Bingley and company into my home? Did I not spend some quite some time conversing with three very silent, stupid gentlemen this evening?"
Mrs. Gardiner, who had been nodding to each question, laughed at the last one. "I am sure it was not quite so bad!"
"I assure you, madam, that it was. There sat three of the most silent, gentleman in the country I dare say, all wearing silly little grins and looking like they had misplaced their best walking cane!"
"Mr. Gardiner!" exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner, "please refrain from referring to your nieces as sticks to be leaned upon!"
"Mrs. Gardiner," Mr. Gardiner replied gravely, "may I remind you to keep your voice down! I shall not put up with the same level of noise that my brother-in-law Bennet must put up with in his household! I will have decorum! I will have peace and quiet! I will ..."
But Mrs. Gardiner had interrupted his rant by hitting him with a pillow across the face.
Pretending shock, Mr. Gardiner raised himself up, and promptly removed all pillows in the vicinity.
"That is the last straw Mrs. Gardiner! I was going to refrain from commenting in the hope of keeping a harmonious house, but after this shocking display of ill manners, I will now demand an answer!"
Madeline looked quite confused.
"I find your choice of nursery rhyme quite lacking! I shall have to keep a close eye on what sort of texts you choose for our own children! The Little Mermaid indeed!"
Mrs. Gardiner laughed softly. She loved her husband so dearly!
"I confess my dear, I was not really paying attention, and chose the first nursery rhyme that came into my head. I also thought it was fitting to stop all the sickeningly lovey-dovey expressions around the room!"
"Lovey-dovey? Is there such a word?" Mr. Gardiner inquired, chuckling quietly.
Mrs. Gardiner grinned. "There is now. I suppose there could have been a reason with my choice. I did not think it would hurt Lizzy and her Mr. Darcy to see that self-sacrifice would be necessary for a marriage. Lizzy needs to realise that she cannot always be so independent, and should rely on other's judgments. She needs to understand that her opinions can be jaded. Mr. Darcy will have to make some sacrifices if he marries Lizzy, he will have to deal with upper society's displeasure in his choice of wife, he may even have to sacrifice some of his reserved nature! Everyone must sacrifice some of their time and self in order for a marriage to work. Jane and Mr. Bingley will not have a problem with this, since they both are used to and are willing to sacrifice themselves for others, but Lizzy and I dare say Mr. Darcy have always been a little less generous with themselves, relying more on their own abilities, keeping their true selves away from prying eyes. Lizzy for all her liveliness, is not the most trusting nor for all her "opinions" is the most generous in giving her full love to people."
"Well, Madeline, for someone who plucks a story out of mid- air, you have a surprisingly accurate application of it to the current situation!" They snuggled closer.
"I do not want to interfere, however," Mr. Gardiner reminded her, mirroring his earlier sentiment. "Let the men decide for themselves. Let them be the men they need to be in order to raise a family and look after their wives."
Mrs. Gardiner could not disagree, and so with a kiss, leaned her head against her husband's chest and fell contentedly asleep.
"Ah, there you are Lizzy" Mrs. Gardiner said, walking into the library where Elizabeth was sitting by herself, quietly reading.
"Aunt Gardiner." Elizabeth smiled, somewhat nervously. She knew she would have to have a particular conversation with her Aunt today. That did not make her any more prepared for it, though.
"You have not told me about your stay in Hunsford." Mrs. Gardiner stated as she sat down on the sofa next to Lizzy.
"Well, Charlotte looked quite content with her situation." Lizzy took a deep breath and began her tale.
Mrs. Gardiner smiled throughout her accounts of Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine's affability and condescension. She smiled through Colonel Fitzwilliam's plotting and Mr. Bingley's transparency. She was delighted at Miss De Bourgh's emergence from her shyness. She frowned, however whenever Lizzy mentioned her cold or caustic treatment of Mr. Darcy.
"Lizzy!" Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed when she related her argument with Mr. Darcy about Jane and Bingley. "I do not care how justified you may have felt, that was shocking behaviour! Imagine Lydia saying those things! You would be the first to criticise her lack of decorum!" Lizzy winced at this pointed condemnation.
"I know Aunt", she hung her head in shame. "I do not know what came over me. I always seem to be reacting rashly with Mr. Darcy! But do you not think he also is to blame? His behaviour in Hertfordshire was abominable!"
"Who were you to judge his behaviour?" Mrs. Gardiner pressed. "What right did you have to categorise his faults? Where you not acting in the same manner that he did towards your family? You disliked it when he expressed it in his manners, and yet you can justify yourself when you openly disparage him!"
Lizzy closed her eyes to stop the tears from flowing.
"My dear, I know I am being too hard on you" Mrs. Gardiner hugged Lizzy. "His behaviour probably merited reproof. He indicated as much when he was apologising to you. I am merely trying to help you learn to control your emotions and opinions. You are very bright, Elizabeth, and have a quick wit. Sometimes, however this may lead you to be slightly cynical on your assessment of people. Mr. Darcy is obviously unsure of how to behave in front of strangers- he is shy and embarrassed."
"I do not think you can put it all to shyness, Aunt" Lizzy sniffled, "since he is capable of speaking in crowds if he pleases. Perhaps he did feel that we were beneath his notice. He certainly admitted to pride when I argued with him." She sighed. "But you are right, of course, I should learn to hold my tongue and treat people with kindness like Jane. What is the point of being almost one and twenty when I have so much to learn, restraint most of all?"
Mrs. Gardiner laughed at her melodrama. "My dear, you know more than you think. You are a lovely young woman, and Mr. Darcy is brimming in admiration for you."
Lizzy blushed. "Aunt," she warned, "I do not think you should speak of this. I do not think anything can come of Mr. Darcy's admiration, if he admires me so much as you say. He is a great man in society, although not titled, he is wealthy and moves in the highest circles."
"Lizzy!" Madeline scolded. "How can you be so inconsistent? You firstly state that Mr. Darcy is too proud, and then you are too proud on behalf of him! I am sure if he told you how far apart your situations in life are, you would be the first to disabuse him of the distinction!"
Lizzy grinned sheepishly. "I cannot help myself Aunt. I do not wish to think that Mr. Darcy sees me as anything more than a common and indifferent acquaintance."
Madeline's eyes narrowed at her false statement. "I do not believe you child. Who are you trying to convince- me or yourself?"
Lizzy flushed uncomfortably. "Oh Aunt! I dare not expect him to form an attachment! I do not want to be disillusioned when he marries someone else! I know his family expects him to make a respectable alliance through marriage. What am I saying?!" Lizzy cried, "I do not want him to want to marry me!"
Mrs. Gardiner saw how confused Elizabeth was.
"My dear, I do not think you have thought through it all clearly. Would you like to discuss it now, or to have some time thinking quietly?"
Lizzy hugged her Aunt for her kindness. "I am very tempted to accept the latter, but I need to express my honest feelings to someone else so they can advise me what to do."
Settling comfortably in the sofa, Lizzy curled her legs under her.
"I feel admiration for Mr. Darcy," she falteringly began. "I think him to be one of the best men of my acquaintance. I am grateful that he treats me with respect even after all I have said to him. I am flattered by how he changed his opinions and acted on those changes when confronted with the truth- I know how hard it is to change your preconceptions!" she smiled ruefully.
"But love?" Mrs. Gardiner prompted gently.
"No." Lizzy truthfully stated. "No, I do not believe I love Mr. Darcy. How can I Aunt? How could anyone go from such strong dislike to utter devotion in two days? I do not completely understand him, I do not really know him at all!"
"You shall get a chance to know him Lizzy. When we dine tonight, you may see him in his natural surroundings. Take the chance to learn more about him. You seemed to be very interested in his estate at Pemberley when he spoke of it. You do not have to rush into any decision- take it slowly. With Jane and Bingley getting married, I am sure you and he shall have many meetings."
Lizzy smiled. She felt great relief at being able to discuss this with her Aunt. "I will! I shall discover the real Mr. Darcy!" She smiled cheekily at Mrs. Gardiner, "I did not say that I did not want to learn about Mr. Darcy, or that I did not think that I could learn to love him dearly one day." Her smiled faded. "But I am so scared Aunt! I have never had to depend so entirely on anyone! What if I give my heart and he scorns it? What if he does not love me in return, and marries someone else? How will I go on?"
"You will go on, Lizzy, no matter what happens. Do not concern yourself about surrendering your heart, your independence to someone else. When the time comes, you shall willingly entrust it to them. Then you shall have the greater responsibility of caring for his heart and his trust in return. Let his behaviour be your guide!"
"I am so glad you are my Aunt" Lizzy impulsively gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "My mother would never be able to set my mind at ease like you have! I shall reflect on what you have told me, and go with open eyes, and an open heart tonight."
Squeezing Elizabeth's hand, Mrs. Gardiner left her to her thoughts.
Colonel Fitzwilliam entered his family's townhouse later that day in order to pick up a few clean clothes and write a few letters. He need not have left Darcy's house, but he thought he would duck out to the shops and make an important purchase for Anne as well.
Upon entering, Forrester, the butler looked slightly concerned. The Master had arrived, quite distressed, earlier this morning, and had been mumbling some uncomplimentary things about his youngest son.
Richard, for once, seemed oblivious to everything but the small package in his coat pocket that weighed pleasantly against his chest.
Smiling at everything in general, he greeted Forrester with a friendly clap on the back. This lack of decorum, and the smile, only served to increase Forrester's worry, and so he decided a little warning would be useful.
"Good afternoon, sir. I believe you will find your father in his study."
"My father!" Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed. "What is my father doing here? When did he arrive?"
"I believe the Master came early this morning. He has not given his reasons for coming into Town." Colonel Fitzwilliam had always been a favourite amongst the staff, so Forrester was kind. "But I believe he has mentioned your name and an engagement in terms of displeasure."
The look on the Colonel's face justified the butler's worst fears. Thinking quickly, the butler made a list of staff that could have their work reallocated so they did not suffer a clash between the Earl of Matlock and his son.
"Ah, thank you Forrester." Colonel Fitzwilliam managed to smile. Of course, he had forgotten about his alleged engagement to Elizabeth Bennet, in his bliss of becoming engaged to Anne, and therefore went in with a slightly different story to that which his father had.
Our stout hearted, dashing Colonel, true to his illustrious military history, took a deep breath and ventured into the study to face his father.
Putting his most innocent face on, and his best leg forward, he began.
"Why hello Father, I did not expect to see you in Town. How was your journey? I hope you left Mother well?"
The Earl was in no mood for pleasantries however. He had travelled all night, forsaking a comfortable bed with his wife to worry about his harebrained scamp of a son making a fool out of him in front of his sister. Let us just say, he was quite grumpy.
"I will have no hellos from you, my boy. Tell me about your engagement! I want straight answers, no side stepping the question. Honesty boy!"
"M ... mmy engagement?" Colonel Fitzwilliam cringed at the not often seen spectacle of his father in a grouch. "How did you find out?"
"You were at Rosings Park, Richard! You know your Aunt well enough to concern herself over every particular! If you were going to engage yourself to some lady, you could have at least done so out of your Aunt's face! I had a letter from her last night, in explicit terminology telling me how ill behaved my son is! Not to mention Darcy!"
"Darcy? Father, Darce is not engaged. Not yet at least." The Colonel cringed at his slip. Perhaps his father could be distracted from his own predicament if diverted by Darcy's ... err ... situation?
"Do not try and change the subject Richard! I want to know who this woman is and how long you have known her for. Lady Catherine told me she was a ... let me see if I can find the exact words ... ah yes, here it is ... a 'most unsuitable woman! A poor, country nobody who has used what little charms she has to bewitch him into forgetting what he owes to himself and his family.' You may read the rest yourself. (offering the letter to him) I do not have the stomach to read it again."
The Colonel picked up the letter and quickly scanned it. Lights went off in the Colonel's brain, as he realised that his Aunt, and Father thought him engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Although quite satisfied on his own account, what would his father's reaction be when he hears Darcy's intentions? The Colonel displayed his brilliant tactical mind ... by testing out the waters.
"And what is the problem with this Father? I did not know you and my Aunt shared the same understanding in marriages. She is most offensive to Mother, Darcy, Georgiana, you even! Actually, she is most offensive to everyone she wrote about!"
The Earl sighed. He disliked his sister's interference. 'Why could she have stayed away like she threatened the last time we had an argument? One good thing will come out of this marriage- she may leave us in peace forever!'
"I do not share Catherine's opinion of marriages in general, and cannot really comment on the particular lady, since I do not know her, but my son, you must remember that you are relatively poor! I am sorry that the little sum you shall inherit will not be enough for you to live on comfortably, but you must consider very carefully whom you shall marry."
The Colonel's eyes narrowed. "So you do not oppose the match Father, except for the fact that she is poor?"
"Not entirely, I will have to get to know the lady, Miss Bennet is it?, first and then decide whether she is sensible enough for you. I have no doubt that she is pretty- you have always had a fine eye." Both men chuckled. "But there are more to marriages than pretty faces."
The Colonel smiled broadly, knowing that Darcy was safe from his family's displeasure.
"Then you shall be happy to know that Miss Bennet is both beautiful and sensible, witty and intelligent."
"But what about her station in life? Dowry?" His father persisted.
"She is a gentleman's daughter. Her dowry is, I imagine quite small. I believe her father's estate is entailed upon Lady Catherine's odious clergyman. But she would make any sensible man the perfect wife."
"My boy, have you thought about this? Is she worth a lifestyle far below your birth?"
"Father, Miss Bennet would make up for a more economical living." Judging the time to be ripe, The Colonel continued nonchalantly. "I do not know if she would have me father, even if I did apply for her hand however. I think she is too sensible to fall in love with a poor soldier such as myself, which shows her sense does it not father?"
"What? Richard! What do you mean? You are not engaged?"
"Oh no, I did not say I was not engaged, only that I was not engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet!" the Colonel smiled smugly. It was perhaps not the best way to inform his father of his intentions towards his cousin, but he thought it in the interest of family harmony to inform him as soon as possible.
"Richard! No more word games! I want you to tell me to whom you are engaged to, and since when! Who Miss Bennet is and why Catherine thought you were engaged to her!"
"Father, perhaps you should sit down, I will pour some drinks, and I shall tell you the whole story."
When both men were settled in comfortable chairs, David Fitzwilliam sinking wearily into his chair thinking that sons were a plague upon his existence. Once the Colonel had fortified himself with some spirits, he started.
"I suppose I should answer your questions in order. I am engaged to Miss De Bourgh. I have just bought her an engagement ring, would you like to see it?"
The Earl visibly started. "Anne? You are engaged to Anne? Does Lady Catherine know about this?"
"No, not as yet, I asked Anne to marry me on the trip to London."
"Anne is in London?" David did not flinch as he drained his glass in one gulp. "I am glad I sent for your mother last night. She would very much like to see Anne. Did you know that she and Anne have been corresponding quite regularly for many years?" he asked in amazement. "I only just found out a few weeks ago. It would appear that Anne is not the shy, sick, weak creature we always believed! I was just about to suggest to your mother that we ask her to stay with us whilst Georgiana is here."
"Yes I know father, Miss Bennet alerted me to the possibility that Anne was not as fragile as we thought. She is really the most delightful woman in the world! And so pretty! Did you know that she has a natural ear for music? We should get a master to teach her, I am sure Mr. Fripps who teaches Georgiana would not object to another student ..."
"Yes, well. Now that we have sorted that out, I do not want you to get carried away. I think I shall need to digest this news somewhat. But you mentioned Miss Bennet. Where did she come from?"
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet is the second eldest of five daughters to a Mr. Bennet of Longbourn in Hertfordshire. The Longbourn estate is entailed to Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine's clergyman, who has just recently married a Miss Charlotte Lucas, as was, who happened to be the best friend of Miss Bennet. She was visiting Mrs. Collins when Darce and I paid our annual visit to Lady Catherine. Bingley, you remember Mr. Bingley father?"
"The puppy-dog like fellow that hovers around Darcy?"
Richard laughed. "Yes, that would be the one, father, although Bingley has developed a few teeth, perhaps a fang or two recently. He gave Darcy a lecturing he has not had since his Father was alive! Yes, well, he came along as well, and it seems that Bingley was in love with Miss Bennet's older sister, Jane Bennet, but Darcy had contrived to separate the two. Miss Elizabeth found out about this and she also was extremely umm ... vexed with Darcy, although they are getting along a lot better now!" The Colonel grinned widely with thoughts of last night.
His father's head was swimming with this hurried information. He got up and poured himself another drink.
"Richard, how about you start from the beginning and explain exactly what happened on your trip to Rosings?"
"Only too happy to oblige, father." And so Colonel Fitzwilliam made a humorous, if slightly exaggerated account of his visit to Rosings Park.
When he was finished, his father still had a few questions.
"So you truly love Anne?"
The Colonel's face betrayed his answer before his words did.
"How are you going to tell Catherine?"
Again, the Colonel's face betrayed him. "Well, I thought perhaps, you could put in a good word for me?" He asked hopefully. The thought of facing Lady Catherine was terrifying.
The Earl chuckled. "Oh no my boy, you shall have to face her by yourself! Try to stand up to her a bit. Think of it as the ultimate test of your military training! Do not worry too much however, I am sure we could all cope with Lady Catherine not speaking to us for say, a few years?"
The Colonel laughed.
"But seriously, Richard, you must try to be diplomatic. No matter how much we may joke (or not) about her high dudgeons, Anne, I am sure may want to have a ... peaceful? relationship with her mother."
"I understand father, I will likely discuss it with Anne before I approach her mother. Perhaps Darce's engagement announcement may soften the blow."
David Fitzwilliam rubbed his hands in anticipation. "So you really think Fitzwilliam is keen on this Miss Bennet?"
"Father, you would be amazed at the transformation! I have heard him apologise to her more than four times, not to mention smile and laugh with her whenever he can! Let me tell you if he acted this way with any other woman, he would have been hunted even more by the ladies of the ton!"
"To see Darce in love! This is too much to pass up!" The Earl's smile grew wider. "You were saying he had a dinner tonight with the lady and her family?" David rubbed his chin in contemplation. "I would very much like to meet this amazing lady who put a smile on my nephew! I am sure the Countess would enjoy meeting Anne again when she arrives later. I might even have a plan or two to make Darcy move a bit quicker! Indeed! No need to tell Darcy that we are coming- it is a surprise visit to welcome our soon-to-be daughter-in-law to the family."
A matching smiled spread across the face of the two men.