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Chapter 26 ~ Repurcussions
The slamming of a door in the upstairs of the house had drawn the attention of the Earl and Countess; they exchanged a worried look over the breakfast table, communicating to one another that they knew something was wrong. The couple went on with their breakfasts for a while longer, although each wanted to immediately discover the cause of such an agitated noise. It was then that they heard the heavy footfall of their eldest son and rushed into the hall to prevent Lord Allington from making his escape up the stairway.
"Tom... How was your outing with Elisabeth? I hope you both had an enjoyable time," Lady Matlock asked, regarding her son closely.
"Yes, I dare say we enjoyed it." Lord Allington progressed up a few steps saying, "Excuse me, I must change out of these clothes."
"I thought you only went for a drive in Hyde Park, not a thirty mile gallop through the countryside," Lord Matlock called after his son.
"It was very dusty in the park," Lord Allington's unsatisfactory reply came from the second floor.
Lord Matlock glanced at his wife. "I don't like this, Helen."
"I wonder what happened," Lady Matlock replied. "He is obviously upset about something..." She looked up the stairs one more time, sighed and turned to follow her husband back into the breakfast room.
The couple ate in silence, wondering what could possibly be the explanation for their eldest son's odd behaviour. Shortly, Lady Janet and the Colonel joined them, and Lady Matlock instantly saw that Janet was not in her usual happy spirits whereas Richard was the only one who seemed to have nothing bothering him.
Lady Matlock waited until Janet was seated before gently saying, "You look flushed, my dear."
"Do I?" Lady Janet self-consciously touched a hand to her cheek.
"Is something the matter, Janet?" the Earl asked, watching his daughter carefully.
Janet shifted uncomfortably in her chair, sending a brief but pleading glance toward her brother. The Colonel jumped in saying, "I'm sure it is just the excitement of the ball. It hasn't faded yet."
"I doubt that," Lady Matlock murmured meeting her daughter's gaze. Janet looked back to her plate and examined the food before her.
"I don't know if I should tell you..." Janet began uneasily, pushing the food around the plate's surface.
"If this is something of importance I think you should, Janet," Lord Matlock urged.
"Well... It is about Elisabeth. She and..." Janet stopped short as her eldest brother entered the room. She carefully raised her eyes to look at him. The Earl and Countess nodded their heads in his direction and turned their attention back to Janet, waiting for her to continue.
"Janet, have you seen Elisabeth this morning?" Lord Allington asked, not moving from his position in the doorway.
"Yes, she is in her bedchamber." Lady Janet's gaze directed toward Allington told him that she knew what had happened.
"Would it be too much trouble for one of you to tell your mother and I what is happening in this house?" the Earl asked, a slight edge apparent in his voice.
Viscount Allington looked his father in the eye as he confessed. "Elisabeth and I argued this morning. I was hoping to go make amends. I'm afraid I rather upset her."
"Thomas!" Lady Matlock sprang out of her seat and headed towards the door. "How could you argue with your sister?"
"Surely that was not Tom's intention, Mother," Richard reminded his mother but his efforts were greeted with angry glares from both parents.
"Indeed, Thomas," Lord Matlock muttered quietly, throwing down his napkin and standing up. "I credited you with more sense than that. The whole situation with both Janet and Elisabeth is delicate. Arguing with Elisabeth was the worst possible thing for you to have done." The Earl and Countess left the room in a great hurry in search of their youngest daughter.
Janet looked up sorrowfully at Allington. "Lizzy told me why you argued. It may be of some consolation to know that I agree with you whole-heartedly, Tom. If anyone were behaving foolishly at the moment, I would say that is Elisabeth. You were trying to protect her, which is as it should be."
"Was she upset?"
"I'm afraid she was but for once I was not able to help matters. Elisabeth and I had a slight disagreement ourselves. I am afraid that I gave her quite a lecture."
Lord Allington and the Colonel looked at Janet in amazement before Richard voiced the thought they both had. "But the two of you are so close..."
"I think it is safe to say that we were close. I believe the present circumstances and the surprise of learning our true identities has yet to dissipate; they have combined to drive us apart. We're not entirely comfortable confiding our problems to one another as once was the case. I ignored that fact this morning when I asked Lizzy for details of her argument with you. It would have served us both well to acknowledge that our confidence in the other has lessened." Janet sighed and stood up from the table, her breakfast untouched. "Please excuse me, I don't seem to have much of an appetite this morning."
"What did happen, Tom?" Richard finally asked a while after Janet had left the room.
Shaking his head, Lord Allington sat down, running a hand through his hair. "I don't really know how it started. Did you know that Elizabeth danced with Lord Hamerton last night?"
"I noticed it, yes. Although I think our sister has more common sense than to be taken in by him."
"I wouldn't bet on it. As you may have guessed, Elisabeth was not exactly appreciative of my advice to keep away from Hamerton. I found out that Mother and Father have done nothing to warn her of him, either - You know our parents as well as I do Richard, in normal circumstances they would have kept Elisabeth away from him."
"Indeed, I do know that, but there is nothing normal about this situation. Have you seen how Mother and Father are so careful what they say in front of Janet and Elisabeth? I can understand them not wanting to cause our sisters pain, but..."
"They are taking that concern to an extreme," Thomas finished for his brother. "I do not wish to attempt to advise them on this matter. After all, they are Janet and Elisabeth's parents. I just don't see how such caution is actually helping."
Richard nodded and the two of them fell back into silence. Some minutes later the door opened and Janet whispered, "Mama and Papa want to talk to all of us in the study. Immediately."
"Do you know what this is about?" asked Lord Allington, exchanging a wary look with his brother.
"I am not sure but I think we can all guess what prompted this meeting."
"Indeed," Allington muttered, rising from his chair. The three siblings went to the study where their parents and Elisabeth were already waiting. As they entered the room they were asked to take a seat. Lord Allington risked a glance at his youngest sister and found her sitting with her hands in her lap, looking determinedly in the opposite direction. He could not see that her expression was not one of anger but of regret.
Lord Allington and Lady Janet sat beside one another while the Colonel took the seat in the neutral position between Lady Elisabeth and the others. Across from them, their parents' faces were grim as they took on the task before them.
Chapter 27
Lord Matlock looked at the sombre faces around him; the feeling of gravity that hung heavily in the air, enveloping them all was a final deciding factor. It was time the subject of Janet and Elisabeth's kidnapping be addressed and any hidden concerns discussed openly.
"The reason your mother and I wanted to meet with the four of you, I should think, is rather obvious. However, it is only slightly to do with the arguments Elisabeth has had with Thomas and Janet." Lord Matlock began at once, not wanting to drag out the encounter any longer than was necessary.
Janet looked from her father to her sister in surprise; she did not think that Elisabeth would have mentioned their disagreement but apparently she had, for her father went on to say to her, "Yes Janet... Elisabeth told us of the unpleasantness now existing between the two of you."
Lady Matlock cut in at this point. "Your father and I have decided it is time that we bring to the surface some of the underlying anxiety between us all. We would appreciate your complete honesty. Do not conceal anything you feel. Quite obviously, the way we are presently going about reuniting our family is not working as we had hoped. Upon discovering that Janet and Elisabeth would be returned to us, your father and I thought that we would let things progress at their own rate and not push anything. Recent events seem to indicate that this choice has not been successful in accomplishing our goal."
The Fitzwilliam siblings remained silent, shifting uneasily in their chairs after the speeches of their parents. The room was quiet and waiting to see who would be the first to voice their opinions. Lord Allington finally took a deep breath.
"First of all, I would like to apologise to Elisabeth for my behaviour this morning. I was merely trying to protect you but some of what I said was uncalled for and I could have said what I wanted in a very different manner, without causing any pain. I am truly sorry. It was wrong of me."
Elisabeth looked at her brother, smiling faintly. "I need to ask your forgiveness as well, Tom. I know that you were only concerned for my well-being. I was ungrateful and angry when I should have been pleased that you were so bent on looking after me."
Lord and Lady Matlock had been smiling in relief at this; however, they both became puzzled when Elisabeth made a mention of being looked after. Lady Matlock asked suddenly, "From what did you have to protect your sister?"
"Thomas was kind enough to warn me of Viscount Hamerton but I reacted very badly to my brother's kindness." Elisabeth paused before looking over at Janet. "I'm sorry Jane. I was angry when I spoke with you and I should not have taken my anger out on you as I did."
"Indeed, and I am sorry for losing my own temper. It is not like me at all."
"I know," whispered Elisabeth, looking down at her hands.
Lord Matlock cleared his throat at this pronouncement. "It is just that kind of thing that your mother and I need to discuss with you. The fact that the people in this family are not behaving as they normally would. As your mother has already said, we want you to tell us anything that is presently giving you cause for concern and we shall see what might be done to rectify that situation."
Lord Allington nodded his head before saying, "If I may be allowed to start?" The Earl and Countess nodded their assent to this and he continued. "I scarcely know where I should begin... One of my main concerns is that we have remained in London; I have thought so from the start but did not want to interfere in what you thought was best for my sisters, given what a difficult time it was, and still is, for them. I cannot see how staying in London, introducing Janet and Elisabeth into society and holding a ball in their honour, has solved anything. It is feeding the lambs to the wolves. How can we have presented Janet and Elisabeth into society as very close family when we know no more of them than the ton knows of them."
The Countess smiled sadly. "We talked of that possibility and it was a great concern for us as well, but we hoped we were doing the right thing, not just for them but for all our family. In these last weeks it has been nearly impossible to know what is to be done for the best. I know you girls say what you think will please us but I'd rather you were open and honest about what you wanted. Admittedly, we should have told you to be open from the start but, even so, that does not necessarily make it any easier for you to speak your minds. Perhaps we should have taken you to Matlock House instead of keeping you in London but we did not want to sever your ties to the Gardiners, people that comforted you, by knowing they were close at hand."
Colonel Fitzwilliam broke in at this point. "I want my sisters to know that I mean no disrespect to the Gardiners when I say this, for they are very good people. However, I think it was their continued presence and, as Thomas said, London that has created these obstacles now in our way of being truly at ease with each other. To speak bluntly, I am of the opinion that we ought to have taken you to Matlock House as soon as we were reunited. The first days and weeks would have been more uncomfortable but we would have been without the constant interruption of London and reminders of your past. Furthermore, we would have been presented with no other option but to put the past behind us and learn about one another had we been by ourselves at Matlock."
"I agree with Thomas and Richard," Lady Janet finally spoke. "I cannot speak for Lizzy, but I find that London has served as a distraction from what should have been a priority. The Gardiners, as much as I love and respect them, are a reminder of something we cannot and should not ignore but, at the same time, is not something around which our life in this family should revolve. The presence of the Gardiners and our remaining in Town has hindered any progress we could have made in enjoying the time we have with one another instead of dwelling on the past. I dislike the fact that Elisabeth and I seem to be growing apart; we have always been able to confide in one another and the last few weeks have changed that. It had been brewing for some time, ever since we found out the truth. We stopped talking openly to one another - I did not talk to Lizzy because I feared we would have different opinions and I did not want to have to justify my feelings, as I knew that I could not."
"I see your point of view very clearly Janet," said Lady Matlock. "Elisabeth... would you care to add anything?"
"Only that I agree with everything my brothers and sister have said. Remaining in London has been anything but helpful and the presence of the Gardiners and the ton have acted as a wall between us. I'm sorry that Janet and I have been unable to discuss things, but now I see that she was suffering from the same fears as myself." Elisabeth paused to collect her thoughts before continuing. "Thomas said something to me this morning... He said that we all lived in fear of disturbing the delicate and surreal balance we have achieved. I am more inclined than ever to acknowledge that point and I have to say that for a long time I have felt as if I were a guest in this house, rather than a member of the family. It appears as though there are two divisions of our family; Mama, Papa, Thomas and Richard are the four people who have been together for years. The second group is Janet and I, the novelties, two outsiders who are trying to join in a game of sorts without having all the rules fully explained to them."
Elisabeth's speech was greeted with silence and nods of assent from the others in the room. Eventually, Lord and Lady Matlock excused themselves from the room for a moment, leaving their children alone for some minutes. At first the silence between the four of them had been somewhat strained but by the time they were rejoined by their parents there was a slight feeling of ease and understanding existing between them.
The Countess took her seat again while her husband opted to stand behind his wife, saying as he did, "We have reached a decision that we hope will meet with your approval. I have given orders to the servants that they are to send word ahead to Matlock House telling them of our imminent arrival. I ask that you have your belongings packed and ready to be loaded on the cart by the end of the day. We shall be leaving early tomorrow morning for Matlock."
Collective sighs of relief and glad smiles were exchanged between the siblings as Lord Allington said, "When you were out of the room we reached the conclusion that we were hoping that is what you would suggest."
Chapter 28 ~ Visits
In the spacious hall of the Fitzwilliams' townhouse a large collection of packed trunks stood waiting to be loaded in the cart that would soon carry them to the estate in Derbyshire. The Fitzwilliam family was engaged in various tasks that needed to be completed before they left London the following day and the house was in some disarray due to their sudden departure.
It was in this state of disorganization that Mr. Bingley arrived and was shown into the sitting room where he waited rather impatiently for someone to join him. He had come expressly to see Lady Janet and being forced to wait to see her was ruffling even his calm composure for it had taken a lot to make him even consider the call.
Bingley was rather unnerved having seen the trunks in the hallway which seemed to hint at only one thing; Lady Janet Fitzwilliam would be going away and he would have truly botched his chance of seeing, even courting, her. He was deeply regretting his previous behaviour. Bingley had honestly thought his actions were the best for both himself and Janet. However, weeks of suffering and agonizing over his decision had matured him and, in light of what Darcy had said, proved that it was better to court Janet and be refused than to ignore her and never find out her feelings towards himself.
The Countess of Matlock and her eldest daughter joined him before he could depress himself further with his speculations. After the initial greetings had taken place and they were seated awaiting the arrival of their tea, Lady Matlock said,
"We are truly sorry to have kept you waiting so long, Mr. Bingley. The house is in a bit of an uproar at the moment."
"Nothing serious, I hope," said Bingley in concern.
"No," Lady Janet began. "No, nothing very serious. My family has decided to journey to Matlock House. We leave tomorrow morning. Our time in London has been rather disagreeable and we presently crave the calm of the country."
"You're leaving so soon?" Bingley asked hurriedly, staring wistfully at Lady Janet.
"I'm afraid we are, Mr. Bingley," Lady Matlock said, seeing how the young gentleman lamented her daughter's removal from London. She did question, however, his sudden renewed interest after weeks of seeing nothing of him. "It is a pity we have not seen more of you over these last weeks."
"Y-yes," murmured he, looking rather uncomfortable. "I've had much business to attend to."
The call continued in much the same manner with the usual pleasantries and small talk. Lady Matlock distanced herself from the conversation; acting more as a chaperon to her daughter than an active participant in the visit. If this was the last the two young people would see of each other for an interminable amount of time, it was better to let them part with a fond memory to sustain them.
Lady Janet watched from her bedchamber window as Mr. Bingley rode out of the courtyard. A pleased smile spread across her face as she thought of the enjoyable visit she had just had with him. She also considered how very well he did look in his blue coat.
It was in this same position that Elisabeth found her sister some minutes later, staring off into the distance, smiling contentedly to herself.
"Jane... I was just told by my maid that Mr. Bingley came to call. Have I been rightly informed?"
Sighing, Janet looked up at Elisabeth and dreamily nodded her head.
"Well, I suppose that is my answer. I know of only one gentleman who can make you smile like that, Jane." Lady Elisabeth gently teased her sister and joined Janet at the window. "I am glad that he came to call. After the words we exchanged this morning I was hoping that he would come so that you might have some assurance of his regard. You love him so dearly, it is only right that he return your affections."
Lady Janet laughed. "Oh Lizzy! It was just like old times; it was as if nothing had changed between us. We were so easy in one another's company."
"Yet the man still did not propose? What are we to do with him?" Elisabeth asked, hugging her sister.
Although neither one remarked on it, they noted that after the discussion the family had had earlier in the day, the sisters were once more at ease with one another, having realised that most of their fears were fairly unreasonable and very much alike.
Bingley sighed, leaning back in his chair. "I just wish that I had listened to you sooner, Darcy." He had travelled to his friend's townhouse after leaving the Fitzwilliams', having decided that he owed it to his friend to fill him in on the latest progress. Presently, he was sitting in Darcy's study relating the encounter almost word for word.
"As childish as it is, Bingley, I cannot refrain from saying 'I told you so'." Darcy was in a much better humour at this time of day than he had been when he first emerged from his rooms that morning. At that time he was dwelling on Hamerton's interest in Elisabeth and vice versa. However, shortly before Bingley's arrival he had received a letter from his aunt, detailing that the family would be travelling to Matlock House the next day. Understandably, Darcy was much relieved that his cousin would be removed from the contaminating influence of the Viscount.
"I'm not sure, this could just be my high hopes, but Lady Janet seemed pleased to see me and sounded regretful when she told me they would be leaving Town," Bingley continued, having not really heard what his friend said. "Did you know they are leaving for their estate?"
"Yes," answered Darcy. "I had a letter from my aunt a few moments before you arrived."
"How I wish Lady Janet was not leaving. I do not know when I might see her again."
Darcy paused to consider this mournful expression from Bingley. An idea came to him that might prove useful to both his and Bingley's attempts to win their respective ladies. "Bingley, why don't you join me at Pemberley sometime soon? I have the rather strong suspicion that once they arrive at Matlock House they will be in no hurry to return to London. Consider, Pemberley and Matlock are rather close to one another."
Bingley burst into an excited grin. "If you tell me when, I shall be ready like that!" He snapped his fingers to emphasize his point.
Chapter 29 ~ The Country Air
Matlock House
June 13, 1813
The Fitzwilliam family had now been at Matlock for two weeks and in that time, although progress was indeed slow, the family was truly achieving the goal of ease with each other. Every day found the four Fitzwilliam siblings riding across the estate, an enjoyment that had first caused apprehension on the part of Lady Elisabeth who knew she was not a proficient horsewoman. However, under the instruction provided by her father and brothers, she was quickly learning.
Regularly, the Earl and Countess would join their children on these excursions. Often the family would stop to speak with the tenants or they would take picnics to some new location on the property. Each day proved to be enjoyable and it somehow managed to bring the family closer together. Bit by bit, they were making up for lost time.
Lady Janet and Lady Elisabeth were becoming rather popular with the people of the estate for the daughters' of Matlock House took an interest in whatever it was they wished to say. On the other hand, the local country gentry who did not attend the London season had been somewhat offended in that the Fitzwilliams had not been at home to any visitors for the last few weeks. The only time the family was seen in the village of Matlock was when they attended church and, for the most part, they kept to themselves.
One other event that had transpired was the ability of Janet and Elisabeth to confide in their mother. On the evening of the eighth day they had been at Matlock House, Janet worked up the courage to tell Lady Matlock of her feelings for Mr. Bingley and ask her mother's advice. The Countess had gently urged her eldest daughter to wait for the situation to resolve itself, as she was certain it would. Lady Matlock had said, "Two people so obviously in love with one another will find happiness in spite of everything." She entreated her eldest daughter to remember every encouraging instance that hinted at Mr. Bingley's true feelings.
Lady Elisabeth had nevertheless needed more time to gather her courage to seek out her mother's help on matters of the heart, especially as the gentleman concerned was so well known to her mother. The Countess was very much surprised by all that her daughter related to her. Although she had for a long time suspected a partiality on both sides, she had never imagined half the things her daughter told her. This was how mother and daughter came to be in Lady Matlock's sitting room one warm spring afternoon.
"William actually proposed to you," Lady Matlock exclaimed faintly once Elizabeth had finished her tale of all her past dealings with her cousin. "One does not quite know what to make of it. I admit that I have often expected him to propose to you, I think it rather obvious that he is attracted to you, but I never suspected for a moment that he had already done so... and been refused."
"How could you have guessed at such a thing, Mama? Neither of us gave any indication as to the level of our acquaintance being more than what anyone supposed. If we did appear uncomfortable with one another it could have been explained in many different ways than the actual reason."
"Indeed. Oh, when I think of all the times we have thrown the two of you together following the incident, how uncomfortable it must have been."
"It was. However, my discomfort had nothing to do with the fact that here was a man I had refused to marry and who I recently had learned was my cousin. I was disturbed by the knowledge that I had misjudged him grievously; yes, he was mistaken in his separating Janet and Mr. Bingley, but I had no reason to believe Mr. Wickham's story so implicitly without even trying to find out what my cousin had to say. When we met again I was conscious that he had changed, he seemed to be fighting his pride and winning. I realised with a feeling of deep remorse that, had I not been so quick and willing to think ill of him, I would have seen months beforehand that he was just the sort of man with whom I could happily spend my life."
"Indeed, I am glad to hear you admit that much, my dear." Lady Matlock paused. "Beth, it is my experience that a person only relates information such as this when they want some sort of advice or reassurance. What can I do for you in that respect?"
Elizabeth blushed slightly. "I'm confused by him; his actions, my feelings for him... I wonder if he still feels anything for me, after what transpired in Hunsford I can't say that I would blame him for withdrawing his affections."
The Countess restrained the urge to laugh. "Beth, if a person truly loves another, he does not withdraw or exchange his love as one would an outfit that didn't suit the occasion." Pausing to smile at her youngest child, she said, "He could have convinced himself that he feels a brotherly affection for you, but deep within his heart he must know that his love for you is as strong as ever. All that my nephew needs is hope that he would not be refused again should he ask you to be his wife. Once and for all, do you love him?"
"Yes. Very much so. At the time of our first meeting I could not have imagined how dear he would become. Admittedly, I doubted the strength of that feeling on a couple of recent occasions, but I must put that down to being so confused about everything else, as well as him. I feared that I would fall in love with Lord Hamerton and forget Fitzwilliam Darcy. Now I can't even remember what caused me to think that."
"I'm glad to see that you have come to your senses in that regard, even if it took an argument with your brother to set everything in its rightful place," Lady Matlock said wryly. "Unlike you, I don't doubt what William feels for you, but I can look at this all with the eye of an outsider and see things that perhaps you miss. As far as I'm concerned he is more in love with you than even he knows."
"I only wish proper decorum didn't prevent my telling him what I feel. Instead, I have to wait for him to declare himself," Elizabeth murmured in displeasure.
"Indeed, although there is nothing in society's rule book that says a young lady can't drop a few subtle hints. After all, it is those subtle hints that make many a marriage." Lady Matlock turned serious as she took her daughter's hands in her own. "I fear that we shall soon be losing you and Janet, though I can hardly regret it. Charles Bingley and Fitzwilliam Darcy are most deserving of, and well suited to, my daughters. The two of them just need to stop hanging about and propose!"
Lady Matlock and Lady Elizabeth shared a quiet giggle at this exclamation. In a dauntless way the family bond between them had been firmly established and it had been accomplished without constant worry and thought as to when it would happen.
Following their merriment, Lady Matlock asked thoughtfully, "Beth, I wanted to ask you what your opinion is on remaining in Derbyshire. Would you prefer our returning to London, instead?"
Elizabeth did not have to give her answer a second thought. "I want to stay here... although London is presently home to Cousin Darcy."
Lady Matlock laughed, shaking her head. "Not for long, dear. I am happy to inform you that I had a letter from my nephew this morning. He and Georgiana are to journey to Pemberley by the nineteenth or the twentieth. A particular bit of information that might interest your sister is that a certain Mr. Bingley is to accompany them. I'm going to write your cousins, telling them they are more than welcome to break their journey here, even stay until your birthday at the end of the month. Who knows what might happen, especially if I can train your father and brothers to leave the room at appropriate moments?"
Chapter 30a
June 14, 1813
"Did you send your letter to Edith?" the Countess asked Lady Elisabeth upon entering the sitting room to find Elisabeth occupied with a book. It had been decided among the family that Lady Edith could be invited to join her friend at Matlock, if she were given permission to do so by her parents.
"Yes, Mama," Elisabeth answered, discarding the book beside her as her mother took the seat across from her. "I believe that Lady Bramley will not let Edie come, though. She would hardly want to discourage any possible suitors for her daughter by removing Edie from Town."
"One can but ask," Lady Matlock said with a smile. "However, I would not underestimate our scheming Lady Bramley. It might occur to her that there are two rather eligible bachelors in this very house."
"Tom and Richard would have a fit if they heard you speaking like that, Mama. They might just think you had turned into a matchmaker and they would not like it at all."
"Indeed. In the time-honoured tradition of young noblemen, they are dragging their feet when it comes to matrimony. Entirely willing are they to do everything else their station deems fit, but mention the dreaded 'M'-word and they are consumed by fear and attempt absolutely everything to escape that doomed fate. You ought to have seen the struggle your father put up... For six months, every time he came to call I was certain he would propose, then the very day I had resigned myself to him never proposing - there he was on one knee asking for my hand. I never once doubted his affection for me, I merely wondered what was taking the man so long."
Elizabeth giggled at this picture of her father. "Very likely my poor father feared what your response would be! Still, I can understand my brothers' reluctance to enter into marriage. I think some of it is similar for Janet and I, as well."
"Can you? Pray, do explain it to me then."
"It is really quite simple. My brothers have grown up with an example of what a loving marriage is. One can hardly blame them if they refuse to settle for anything less, themselves. It takes great care to find someone whom you can love and respect. Janet and I, however, were raised with the Bennets who did not love or respect one another. The example they set of what a marriage could be gave us the determination to find love and respect in our own marriages. I was told by my Aunt Sophie that you and Papa fell in love at first sight. I wonder if you realise that not everyone is so fortunate as that - I might make a point of drawing your attention to the progress, if indeed it can be called that, of the courtships of your daughters; they have not gone very smoothly at all."
"Point taken, although I think you can understand that I would like some grandchildren to spoil rotten. As Thomas is a good five years older than his brother, and there exists an even greater gap between his age and yours and Janet's, I would have thought he'd be the first to marry and have children but he has failed in that respect. Even now, when he is approaching the age where most young gentlemen think of marriage, he shows no inclination. Richard appears to be a slightly safer bet. He was rather interested in Edith at your ball but I've been fooled before. So, I am forced to rely on you and Janet... Thankfully, the probability of that happening is more favourable."
"Neither Mr. Bingley nor my cousin have made any motion towards proposing. You cannot be speaking of grandchildren yet, Mama," Elisabeth laughed from her station at the window seat. "Counting chickens before they're hatched, so to speak."
"True enough!" Lady Matlock laughed heartily at her daughter's choice of words. "Did you tell Janet that her beloved Mr. Bingley will be coming?"
"Yes, I did. She blushed happily and admitted in her quiet way that she was genuinely looking forward to his arrival, meaning that underneath her calm appearance she is jumping for joy. Janet was also true to her nature by saying how happy she was for me that our Cousin Darcy would also be here."
"A faithful account of all that was said, I dare say." Lady Matlock chuckled. Standing up from her chair she said, "I have to go discuss the meal with the cook. I want to have all of Tom's favourite's prepared for him before he departs tomorrow morning."
"Does my brother really have to go to Kent?" Elisabeth asked regretfully.
"Yes. The steward of Allington Park wrote your father saying that repairs are needing to be made to the house, the roof has sprung a few leaks here and there, so it is failing to do the job for which it was intended. Tom volunteered to go instead of your father. He's promised to journey back for your birthday celebrations, however."
"Well, that is a relief. I shall miss him. I've really enjoyed these last couple of weeks with my family. It is nice to have brothers. I didn't realise what I was missing," Lady Elisabeth said before asking, "May I come with you to the kitchens?" She knew that the book she had been reading would not hold her attention much longer.
"By all means." The Countess linked arms with her daughter, saying as they quit the room, "Are you practicing for when you become mistress of a certain estate one might mention?"
"Mama..." Lady Elisabeth warned, her eyes twinkling with mischief that was akin to her mother's.
Chapter 30b ~ An Invitation to Visit
Townhouse of the Earl and Countess of Bramley,
June 16, 1813
Dear Edith,
I fear I have been remiss in writing to you, my dear friend, but I am certain that you understand the reasons, as I told you in my letter when my family left London. I am glad to report that things are well with us all, Janet's and my closeness with our parents and brothers continues to grow, much to the satisfaction of all concerned.
As I both wished and suspected, we are now, quite certainly, going to remain at our estate for the rest of the season. I am dreadfully sorry that you have to fight your battles with the Ton on your own, Edie.
My purpose for writing, however, has little to do with the above. I have been given permission to extend to you an invitation to come to us at Matlock as soon as you can possibly get away. Even tomorrow, were it likely.
I realise that your mother may oppose such a plan during the season but I hope you may find some way of convincing her that it will not be detrimental to your chances of finding a husband by joining us.
Please write soon. Tell me when and if you may come.
Your Friend,
Matlock House
June 14, 1813
Elisabeth Fitzwilliam
"Who is your letter from, Edith?" Lady Bramley asked as soon as her daughter's attention shifted from the words in front of her.
"Elisabeth Fitzwilliam." Lady Edith glared at her brother when the look of boredom disappeared from his face and he listened to the conversation with rapt attention.
"Oh, how does our dear Lady Elisabeth do?" asked Lady Bramley.
"Very well. Elisabeth has invited me to join her at Matlock House as soon as I can get away. May I go Mother?"
"Yes, but... Oh, not before the conclusion of the season." Another equally shocking thought occurred to the Countess. "Surely they do not intend to stay in Derbyshire all that time? How can the girls expect to find proper husbands like that?"
Lady Edith sent a pleading look to her brother as she struggled for something else to say. "I don't think marriage for Lady Janet and Lady Elisabeth is such a large concern for the Earl and Countess. Are you forbidding me to go?"
"Yes. Why, here is another season almost gone by and you are yet to be married and not an interested gentleman in sight."
"All the more reason to send Edie to Matlock, Mama," Lord Hamerton suggested, finally coming to his sister's aid. "I think you have forgotten of one, nay, two rather eligible gentlemen in residence there."
"Oh! Dear me, I had quite forgotten about Lord Allington and the Colonel. Go, by all means, Edith! They may be your last hope of saving you from spinsterhood," Lady Bramley exclaimed with much excitement. "Edith, you shall be in their company every day, I dare say, and you must make the most of it. I do not want you to make any of your silly remarks, you quite terrify educated gentlemen with them."
Lord Hamerton and Lady Edith wanted to laugh at their mother's rambling, but were considerate enough of her feelings to prevent themselves from doing so.
"I shall go and speak with your father directly, Edith... Oh, and tell Mary to pack your trunks. I want you to write to Lady Elisabeth immediately, thank her and her parents for their very kind invitation and inform them of your impending arrival - I would guess that you shall be arriving on the nineteenth of the month." In a flurry of words and plans, the Countess of Bramley left the room, allowing her children to have a quiet laugh at her expense.
Sighing, Edith moved to the writing desk on the other side of the room. "I had best do as Mother says or I will have even less peace until I leave for Matlock."
Hamerton nodded. "Does your pretty young friend make any mention of or ask after me?
"No, she does not, Philip." Edith said crisply. "I told you to forget about Elisabeth, she is too good for you."
"Indeed, you also told me she was in love but I have heard no mention of an engagement."
Edith looked flustered at this comment. "I only said that I suspected my friend held an affection for someone. I could be quite wrong."
"Yes, Edie, you could be wrong and what if you are? I think I might very well be foremost in Lady Elisabeth's thoughts."
"You know what I say about you and thinking, Philip; some things are never meant to be," Edith said, smiling disapprovingly at her brother.
"I notice that you don't deny the logic of my statement," Hamerton grinned, inspecting one of his boots.
"Why should I even attempt it? I know that you will think what you want. 'Tis a waste of breath. Now, if you don't mind, I am trying to write a letter to my friend and you are distracting me from it."
"Oh, very well!" Lord Hamerton exclaimed testily. "I'll leave you to your precious letter." The gentleman stalked out of the room, rolling his eyes at his sister's prudery.
Chapter 31a
Matlock House,
June 19, 1813
Colonel Fitzwilliam had first alerted his family to the arrival of their guest, Lady Edith, when he saw the carriage bearing the Bramely crest coming up the long drive in front of the house. Lady Elisabeth and Lady Janet, accompanied by their brother, had gone to greet Lady Edith, leaving the Earl and Countess of Matlock by themselves in the drawing room.
Lady Edith was ushered into the drawing room while her trunks were taken to the guest chamber that had been prepared for her. The Countess had ordered tea a short time before Edith's arrival and was quick to pour everyone a cup.
"How was your journey, Edith?" Lord Matlock asked once she had taken a sip of her tea.
"Fine, thank you."
"I saw some clouds in your direction, earlier. I feared you might be delayed," said the Countess.
"Yes, they were rather threatening, but I never saw a drop fall."
"Well, our weather will always be a mystery to me." The Countess shrugged in defeat of ever understanding. "Pray, feel free to take a nap and freshen up a bit, Edith. We will hold our nuncheon meal for you."
"Oh, thank you, but I only wish to change my gown, Lady Matlock. I was rather hoping Janet and Elisabeth might be persuaded to give me a tour of the house and grounds. I have heard so much of the beauty of Matlock House."
"Edie, I think we would gladly give you a tour but my sister and I would likely get the three of us lost," Lady Elisabeth laughed. "Janet and I are still forced to ask directions to certain rooms and more than once have we managed to get lost."
"Well, that would never do... The rest of your family would die off from a lack of nourishment if we were so unfortunate as to get lost and they kindly held the meal."
"I think you would find, Edith, that no matter how hospitable my wife and I are, there is a limit," Lord Matlock chuckled.
"Indeed, Lord Matlock," she laughingly replied.
The Colonel took the opportunity of a slight lull in the conversation to say, "I would be happy to escort all of you on a tour of the grounds."
"Would you, Richard?" asked Elisabeth.
"Certainly. I have no immediate business and it would be a pleasure." The last part of the sentence was spoken with a furtive glance at Lady Edith.
Edith thanked Colonel Fitzwilliam for his generosity with a slight heightening of colour that was observed by Lady Matlock with a small smile that was hidden in her tea cup.
"Should I have Cook prepare a picnic for you? It would certainly make things more convenient on the whole," Lady Matlock asked.
The four of them exchanged looks of silent questions and answers before the Colonel agreed to that plan. As the girls went to change into their riding outfits, Colonel Fitzwilliam disappeared into the stables to have four horses saddled and by the time the ladies emerged from the house, picnic basket in tow, the horses and the Colonel were waiting in front of the house for them.
Nearly three hours later, just as the clouds that had gathered overhead burst and began to pour water onto the earth below, the group returned to the house, their faces bright from the exercise and laughter. The Earl and Countess were found in the Library a few minutes later when the young people went in search of them, freshly changed into clean clothes.
"Finally, you return," said Lord Matlock upon beholding them in the doorway. "My wife has been starting to think about sending out a search party, if I am not mistaken."
Laughing good naturedly at her husband's teasing, the Countess enquired, "Did you get caught in the rain?"
"No, Mother." Colonel Fitzwilliam assured her. "You worry too much. We returned just as it started, actually."
"I can't help worrying, even so... I hope you all had an enjoyable time."
"Oh yes!" The three ladies chorused, taking seats in front of the fire.
"I trust that the Matlock estate was everything you expected, Edith," Lord Matlock asked, closing his book and setting it aside.
"It was! I fear that no one can possibly, with the spoken word, begin to do justice to the fantastic surroundings you have here. I have never seen such lovely views."
"So your staring at everything around you is the reason for your delay, I suppose." Lady Matlock hinted that an explanation would be welcome.
"In some respects, yes, your Ladyship. I fear it was rather my fault." Edith lowered her eyes in guilty enjoyment. "I kept on insisting that we ride further afield."
"Yes, and instead of refusing to accompany Lady Edith and give her no alternative but to follow us, if she did not want to be lost, we went with her," The Colonel supplied good-naturedly.
The Earl and Countess laughed at this narrative, accurately imagining that their children had been having such an enjoyable time that they did not put up any resistance to Lady Edith's suggestions.
"Well, while you were out we had more guests arrive." The Countess smiled at the questioning faces on the four in front of her. "The Darcys and Mr. Bingley came about an hour and a half after you left to go riding all over the fields. I told them you had not intended to go very far but, obviously, I now look like I didn't know what I was talking about."
Chapter 31B ~ What Have We Here?
Lady Janet and Lady Elisabeth looked at their mother, each wearing rather panic-stricken looks. The girls had been under the mistaken impression that they would have the opportunity to better prepare themselves before seeing their loves again.
The much hoped for time was not to be, however, for at that moment the door to the room opened to admit Darcy, Georgiana and Mr. Bingley. In a desperate attempt to hide their discomfort, Janet and Elisabeth were quick to welcome them with small, even shy, smiles.
Lady Matlock stood up, waving them into the room, thus forcing Darcy and Mr. Bingley to stop staring at her daughters and behave like the truly civilised gentlemen they were, by addressing her and getting caught up in a conversation with the Earl and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Georgiana came forward to embrace her cousins and reacquaint herself with Lady Edith. The young lady provided a welcome distraction for her cousins by saying how much she had missed having them near in London and the conversation that followed took up sufficient time to allow for a reordering of thoughts.
It did not take Mr. Bingley long to excuse himself from his companions and station himself next to Janet, succeeding in drawing her away from her companions. Darcy was just content to glance at Elisabeth whenever a lull in the discussion allowed it. For her part, Elisabeth was made rather nervous by Darcy's lack of communication and could not help but think of her treatment of him the last time they met. She hoped he was not offended in anyway.
"I must ask you to forgive me, Edith," the Countess said, when the girls' talk seemed to have exhausted itself. "I forgot to ask after your family. I hope they are all in good health."
"Oh, yes, thank you." Lady Edith paused uncertainly. "I was meaning to tell you but I quite forgot that my father has let the Danbury estate not two miles from here. My family plans on residing there after the conclusion of the season."
Pretending to pay attention to what his uncle was saying with a nodding of his head, Darcy's attention was quite focussed on Lady Edith's revelation. He strongly hoped that it would not mean an addition of Lord Hamerton to the party.
"Oh!" Lady Matlock quickly masked her displeasure at this plan. "Well, it will be nice for you to have them so near."
"Yes," Lady Edith answered with a marked lack of enthusiasm. She knew that her brother planned on taking up residence there in a short while and disliked his reason for doing do. Hamerton's interest in Elisabeth would not be hidden and Edith had been observing Mr. Darcy's interest in his cousin. She did not want her brother ruining anything.
The silence that followed this announcement was rather unnerving. Elisabeth and Edith were greatly relieved when Georgiana suggested they go to the music room for her brother had given her some new music that she wanted to try playing.
Miss Darcy's suggestion was willingly agreed to by Lady Elisabeth and Lady Edith. Janet was too engrossed in her conversation with Mr. Bingley and Lady Matlock was chaperoning them to an extent so did not excuse herself to join their little group.
The three quit the library and, as the proceeded to the music room, Elisabeth asked her friend, "Do you suppose your family will take up residence at Danbury anytime before the season's end?"
Edith flinched slightly as she forced herself to answer. "Papa may like to but Mother would never stand for it so they will be remaining in Town." She sighed. "I fear that my beastly brother will arrive soon, however."
"Why ever do you not wish you brother to come?" asked Georgiana before deciding that her question was too forward and made to apologise to Lady Edith.
"Pray, don't worry, Miss Darcy. The answer to your question is simple enough. Not every girl is so fortunate to have been blessed with brothers like yours." Edith continued once they entered the music room. "I do not fear telling either of you this, but I do so as a warning to Elisabeth."
Lady Elisabeth raised an eyebrow in question, asking her friend to continue.
"Philip likes you a great deal. I think you can imagine that is to not be taken as a compliment, my friend. If he does come to Danbury, and I think it highly likely that he will, I would suggest that you avoid him as much as possible. He's up to something. I don't know what but, whatever his plan may be, I do not trust him."
Georgiana whispered in shocked accents, "Are you saying that his intentions toward my cousin are... not honourable?"
"That is precisely what I am saying! Not that Philip's attentions to any lady are ever honourable. My brother is a rake, Miss Darcy, and not at all the sort of proper gentleman as your brother and cousins are."
"Well, I shall do my best to avoid him without appearing rude, Edie. Now, enough with this serious whispering... I thought we came here to have a listen to this music," Elisabeth said, moving to the pianoforte.
Chapter 32 ~ Full of Surprises
Matlock House,
Morning of June 26, 1813
The days leading up to Lady Elisabeth's twentieth birthday had gone smoothly and quietly for the whole family. Janet, Elisabeth, Edith and Georgiana were constantly in one another's company but with a number of interruptions caused by Mr. Bingley when he claimed Janet's full attention.
It was the cause of a teasing banter between the Earl and Countess; the question of when Mr. Bingley would finally work up the courage to ask for their daughter's hand in marriage. The parents of the lady actually had a small amount of money placed on the time when the gentleman would ask their permission and propose. Lady Matlock did not, however, mention their youngest daughter's possible foray into married life, for the progress of that courtship was rather less easy to discern and she was not about to pry for information, no matter how sorely she was tempted to do so.
Lady Elisabeth and Darcy did converse regularly but they were both so guarded in their emotions and expressions that it was as difficult for an outsider, as well as the couple themselves, to see if they were any closer to reaching an understanding. Elisabeth experienced some alarm when Darcy left Matlock for a day, but she was assured by her mother that he had some business to attend to at Pemberley and that he would be back by evening. It was after that scare that Elisabeth saw fit to promptly apologise to Darcy for her behaviour at the ball, making the stress of the event the excuse.
The Colonel and Lady Edith were also often seen enjoying one another's company, whether it was a fiery disagreement over a book, politics, even the merits of certain dishes at the dinner table. The couple often rode through the estate in the company of the others and their good-natured arguments continued. Lord Matlock remarked to his wife that he suspected something might come of the time those two young people spent together and Lady Matlock told her husband that she was pleased to see that in his later years he was becoming rather apt at discovering fledging relationships.
The family planned to celebrate Lady Elisabeth Fitzwilliam's birthday with a small party made up of themselves, the Darcys, Mr. Bingley and Lady Edith. Local gentry who might otherwise have been asked to take part in the event were not on such easy terms with the Fitzwilliam family since the return of Janet and Elisabeth. Furthermore, as this was to be her first birthday ever celebrated with her real family, they did not want mere acquaintances to take part in the day.
In the rather early hours of the twenty-sixth of June, the day of Elisabeth's birthday, Lord Allington returned home for a brief visit to relate his progress with Allington Park to his father and to celebrate his sister's day. He was quick to wish Elisabeth well but rather surprised his parents when he asked for a private audience with them not half an hour after his return.
"I don't mean to pry if it is none of my business but is everything alright with Tom? He was so eager to speak with you and Papa that I felt something must be wrong," Elisabeth asked of her mother shortly after her eldest brother went to change out of his travelling clothes and her parents had emerged from their conference with him, both wearing rather amazed, though pleased, expressions.
"Oh, nothing is wrong!" Lady Matlock laughed, turning her attention from the scenery of her sitting room window. "I am just going to have to accept the fact that another one of my children is ready to leave the nest and start a family of his own. Keep this to yourself, though, Beth." Lady Matlock took a seat near her daughter. "Tom wanted to ask your father's and my opinions on his marrying. It seems that he has met a young lady while he's been at Allington Park and he has become quite attached to her. He wanted our permission to ask for her hand."
"Really? Oh how wonderful! You did give him your permission?" Elisabeth asked, quickly banishing any feelings of fear that Darcy seemed no closer to declaring himself than when he had first arrived. He was reserved in her presence, much as he had been when she was still Miss Elizabeth Bennet, only this time he showed the polite and kind side of his nature, not haughty and proud.
"Oh yes, and our blessing. Rarely have your father and I seen him so bound and determined on anything. It was impossible to refuse. He is a sensible, grown man and I trust his judgement. I do confess that I wish I could meet the girl before he asks but I gather that is not entirely possible."
"Who is she?" Lady Elisabeth asked with genuine interest.
"Miss Cathy Benson and not a noblewoman, as such. Her father was a gentleman but he died some time ago and she and her family are now working as companions to the ladies of Redmond Hall, the neighbouring estate to Allington Park. I understand that Mrs. Benson used to be a school friend of Mrs. Redmond. So, we really have nothing to quibble about as far as Miss Benson's connections and breeding go."
"True enough. Well, I do wish my brother every bit of luck in the world. I hope she will make him happy, as I hope he will her. Do you know when Tom is to propose?"
"No. Tom means to return to Allington Park the day after tomorrow but I think that now he has our permission he is going to take a little time to work up the nerve required to ask Miss Benson."
The music room at Matlock House was filled with the bright light of the late morning sun. It made the conditions favourable for learning a piece of music, which was just how Lady Elisabeth Fitzwilliam was employing herself when her eldest brother stepped into the room.
"Beth... I am going to take a ride around the estate. I was hoping I might treat you to a bit of an adventure on your birthday. Would you care to accompany me?" Lord Allington asked, smiling at the disenchanted but determined set of his sister's mouth. She actually appeared to be pouting at her lack of proficiency with the pianoforte. It was obvious that her enjoyment and enthusiasm for her chosen pastime was rapidly wearing thin.
"I should like that very much!" Lady Elisabeth exclaimed, closing the instrument with a relieved sigh. "I cannot believe that I insist on torturing myself like this."
"Oh, I can." Lord Allington wrapped an arm around his sister, ushering her from the room. "You are a Fitzwilliam, are you not? Our stubbornness seems to be a sure way of torturing ourselves."
"I suppose you are now going to tell me there is no cure for it."
"I am. Although, we would not want to be cured, now would we?"
"How do you come to that conclusion?"
"Well, it is all part of our charm." Lord Allington smiled roguishly, as he signalled the servant to hand the lady her outer garments and told Elisabeth it was no matter that she was not in her riding attire.
On the way to the stables, Lord Allington said, "Mother told me that you know of my attachment to a certain Miss Benson and that I mean to marry. What do you think of my plans?"
"What else am I to think?" Lady Elisabeth exclaimed. "I could hardly be dissatisfied with such news although I do confess to a great curiosity as to Miss Benson, herself."
He laughed but sobered when next he spoke. "I find it strange. I shouldn't but I do. You are so like Mother; not just in respect to you both wondering about Cathy. It is in the way you both expressed that sentiment, your looks and words were almost exactly alike."
Lady Elisabeth found her brother's words comforting and flattering. They quieted her for a few moments and, before she had a chance to continue her talk with her brother, they had reached the stables and Thomas was promising, in a whisper, to tell her more of Cathy Benson during their ride.
"Ah, here you are." Lord Matlock smiled as Thomas and Elisabeth entered the stables. "I trust you had no trouble getting her to come with you, Tom?"
"None whatsoever." Lord Allington grinned at the look of bewilderment that was spreading across Elisabeth's face when she saw that everyone in their party was milling around just inside the stable doors.
"Are you going to make this difficult for us, cousin? Not going to ask what we all do here?" Darcy's question was asked in such a cheerful, teasing tone that Elisabeth could barely keep herself from staring at him. In a matter of a few hours since they had last spoken, all his reserve had disappeared and in its place came the manners that Elisabeth had come to love so very dearly.
"Well, if it makes things easier, I shall ask. What are you all doing here?"
The Earl laughed at his daughter's acquiescence and, drawing her arm through his, he escorted her a little further into the stables, stopping before one stall that housed an animal Elisabeth was certain she had not seen before. "It occurred to us all that since your skill has been improving so greatly, you deserve an animal of your own. What do you think of her?"
"She's beautiful." Lady Elisabeth reached out and gently stroked the small mare's dark nose.
Lady Matlock added with a sly sidelong glance at her daughter, "Mainly your Cousin Darcy is to be thanked for supplying the animal. He said he owned just the sort of horse that would be perfect for you and here she is." She added in an undertone that only her daughter heard, "That was his reason for going to Pemberley a couple of days ago."
Darcy dropped his gaze from the group in front of the horse and started examining the ground in front of him, thinking, not for the first time since his arrival at Matlock, that his Aunt Helen knew something of his history with Elisabeth.
"My cousin has good taste. Thank you, William," Lady Elisabeth whispered with the slightest blush brightening her features as she looked over at her cousin.
"Aye, that he does," Lord Matlock heartily agreed. "I could not have chosen better, myself. So, let us be on our way, shall we?" The earl waved the stable-boy over to bring the mounts out of the stable.
Chapter 33 ~ A Sense of Ease
"Where are we going?" Elisabeth asked her sister as she settled herself into the saddle.
"Well, that is a secret, Lizzy." Lady Janet smiled at her sister. "Be thankful that we are not following Richard's suggestion of blindfolding you."
Lady Matlock once more whispered to her daughter, leaning close to Elisabeth as she did so. "That suggestion was heartily fought against from one quarter." The Countess cast a quick look behind them at Darcy, who was trying to feign disinterest in Elisabeth. "I think it might have something to do with that gentleman's appreciation of your 'fine eyes', I believe he called them... The poor boy was heartily embarrassed after saying so and went to look out the drawing room window for a good ten minutes afterwards."
"Mama!" Elisabeth hissed, turning scarlet and causing the gentleman being discussed to wonder what would cause such a rush of colour in his beloved's face.
The Countess of Matlock raised one mischievous eyebrow at her daughter before turning her horse to follow her husband's, whereby they took the lead of the group. Lady Janet had been riding next to her sister but, upon Mr. Bingley's joining her, Janet's attention was well and truly diverted.
Lady Edith and Colonel Fitzwilliam were likewise concerned with one another, leaving Elisabeth in the company of her eldest brother and her cousins. The four of them rode in silence. Elisabeth realised that her brother was not about to speak of Cathy Benson in the presence of the other two so she was forced to quell her interest on that point.
"Are you not going to give me even the smallest of hints as to where we are going, cousin?" Lady Elisabeth shortly asked Darcy when she saw that her brother and Georgiana had begun a conversation of their own and had dropped behind herself and Darcy. Elisabeth had the suspicion that it was not exactly unintentional on Georgiana's part.
"If I did, Allington and Fitzwilliam would likely kill me. I am awfully sorry but I do value my life." Darcy's voice again held that teasing tone.
"What is this?" Lady Elisabeth cried in mock horror. "My happiness is not worth you sacrificing your life?"
"As lovely as you are, I am afraid that it is not." The twinkle in his eyes belied the seriousness of his voice.
"Well," huffed Elisabeth. "Be gone with you then, you impudent man!" She waved her hand dismissively and turned her head away from him.
"Very well, my lady."
Lady Elisabeth heard an overly dramatic sigh escape his lips but she did not see the wicked grin on his face as he took her hand that still hung disdainfully in the air and placed the lightest of kisses on it. Her eyebrows flew up in shock as she turned to look at him, but she was even more surprised by the twinkle of amusement in his eyes as he dropped her hand and nudged his horse into a faster trot, riding away from her. She now saw the smile on his face and fell even more in love with this side of him.
"Sir, I demand that you return here at once and explain yourself," Elisabeth called after him, not even attempting to conceal the mirth in her voice.
Lady Elisabeth had never heard him laugh so heartily until that moment when he swung his horse around and rejoined her.
"Yes, my lady?" Darcy's and Elisabeth's eyes met, causing them to pause before their laughter got the better of each.
"What shall you name her?" Darcy asked, patting the side of Elisabeth's horse when at last they had ceased their laughing.
"I'm trying to decide," Elisabeth answered seriously, although she was still smiling foolishly. "I cannot, at the moment, think of anything that is truly fitting for her." Darcy nodded his head and fell silent as they rounded a small copse, watching for Elisabeth's reaction to their preparations for her birthday.
"However did you manage to organise all this?" Lady Elisabeth gasped, looking at the grandeur around her in the family's favourite grove for their picnics. "It is splendid! Oh, thank you all!"
One long table, hidden under a white table cloth was laden with delicious dishes of fish, vegetables, cold ham and chicken, a great assortment of tarts, pastries and custards, and a fair sized collection of wine to go with the meal. Numerous servants stood guard over the food. On the ground, midway between the table of food and the stand of tall trees, blankets had been set up with large umbrellas to shelter them from the afternoon sun.
Darcy dismounted and offered his arm to Elisabeth when she too had settled on the ground. "It was not easy to organise, as I think all of us can testify! It is impossible to keep track of you every moment of the day and there were a couple occasions when we fearfully could not find you and thought you might have discovered our secret."
"I am not so very difficult to find, sir! My habits, or so I have been informed, are very predictable," Lady Elisabeth said cheerfully, enjoying the sensation of her arm touching Darcy's.
"I fear that you would be surprised. How you occupy your day is easy to discover, but at what time is an entirely different matter," Darcy answered with a smirk as he led his cousin to one blanket. "May I fix a plate for you?"
"I thank you, yes." Lady Elisabeth's eyes shone with happiness at his manner towards herself and the contented smile did not fade when he bowed and walked towards the table. Her thoughts were so absorbed by watching his every movement that she missed the peaceful, perhaps knowing smile on her mother's face.
The meal passed with carefree conversation between all while the food was eaten with much exclaiming over the quality and superior taste of the dishes. Lord and Lady Matlock were seated with their sons on one blanket and Lady Janet, Lady Elisabeth, Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy and Miss Darcy occupied the other, while Lady Edith bridged the gap between both groups.
Shortly after the servants began packing up some of the food, Elisabeth watched with great interest as Mr. Bingley asked Janet if he may accompany her on a walk and then escorted her away from the group on the hill. Nor could she miss the pointed looks that passed between her parents. It was clear that something had transpired and it was all she could do to prevent herself from walking over to her parents and asking if her suspicions were true. Lady Elisabeth was startled by Georgiana's voice whispering from behind her,
"Unless I am much mistaken, Janet is about to receive an offer of marriage from Mr. Bingley."
Darcy tugged nervously at his cravat and, pretending to examine the last of his wine, he peeked at Elisabeth, trying to gauge what she made of his sister's rather bold estimation.
"I think you might be right, Georgie," Elisabeth answered, daring to turn her head to see how Darcy was affected by Georgiana's words. She resolutely looked into his eyes but, instead of glancing away as was her first impulse, Elisabeth held his gaze, smiling softly, thus conveying her appreciation.
Chapter 34 ~ Birthday Present Number Two
"Georgie..." Lady Edith called across the small clearing. "Colonel Fitzwilliam assures me that there are some excellent wild strawberries to be found nearby. Would you care to join us in gathering some in honour of our Lady Elisabeth's birthday?"
"Oh yes! I should like that very much. Thank you!" Georgiana picked up her parasol and quickly followed them.
Lady Elisabeth and Mr. Darcy each noted with silent amusement that they had been left pretty much to themselves. The Earl and Countess were the only people to remain and they were occupied in whispering to their eldest son, although Lady Matlock was keeping a watchful eye on the young couple across from her.
"I must thank you, Cousin..." Lady Elisabeth began after taking a steadying sip of her wine. "If what Georgie surmises is indeed true, I know that you have helped to reunite Mr. Bingley with my sister."
A moment of uneasy silence hung in the air while Darcy fidgeted as he sought the right words to say in response to Elisabeth's carefully spoken appreciation. However, he was not presented with such an opportunity as his silence had unnerved Elisabeth and she tried to alleviate the problem.
"I am sorry. I've offended you... Pray, let us speak of something else."
Darcy quickly recovered his composure and spoke. "Cousin Elisabeth, you have not offended me. I was merely at a loss as to how I ought to respond. Indeed, all I can say is that I have hardly helped. All that I have done is to right a wrong that I should never have committed. It was dishonest and pompous of me to assume I knew what was best for my friend; only Bingley can be the best judge of what makes him happy. However, as you suggested, let us say no more on the subject, except that I am very sorry I had to correct a mistake that should not have been made in the first place."
Lady Elisabeth would have dearly loved to comment further on all that he had said, but she did not. She contented herself with the thought that his speech revealed that the man she had hated in Hunsford had taken her words to heart and was attempting to make up for his ill-judgment, perhaps proving to herself that he was capable of acting selflessly, not selfishly, towards others.
"The weather is very fine, is it not?" Elisabeth began, smiling at him in a way that said, if he had but looked into her eyes at that moment, that all was forgiven and forgotten.
A chuckle broke from Darcy's lips as he continued in the same manner as she. "Yes, it is. I hope it will hold for the remainder of the day so that our celebrations do not have to be curtailed." The lady nodded her head in agreement; a short-lived quiet fell over them until Darcy hesitantly produced a small box from the breast pocket of his jacket.
"I wanted you to have this, Elisabeth." Darcy said as he opened the box, revealing a delicate necklace with two thin strands of diamonds and pearls entwining and from it hung an elegant silver cross. "It is something of a family tradition. I thought it would be a good idea to carry it on... For the last ten generations in the family this necklace was given to the youngest daughter of the Fitzwilliam family. My mother was the last to wear it, she left it to me to do with what I would and I am certain that she would have liked to see it passed on to the rightful person."
"It is beautiful," whispered Elisabeth, touching the necklace reverently. Knowing its history made it particularly precious, especially as it had belonged to his mother. "Thank you, William." Taking the necklace from its box, she examined it closely for some moments, quite unaware of the look of adoration that was directed at her from her cousin.
"Would you help me with the clasp?" Elisabeth finally asked, holding it out to him and turning so that he could place it around her neck.
Darcy took a few calming breaths as he first undid the necklace, painfully conscious that his fingers shook. As he placed the strands around her neck, his fingers brushed against her soft skin and he noticed the colour rush up her neck. He quickly finished with the necklace to check himself from doing something utterly scandalous in front of her parents.
"Let me see how it looks," said Darcy hoarsely as Elisabeth obligingly turned to face him, nervously fingering the necklace.
"Very beautiful..." Darcy breathed, although it was apparent that he spoke of her and not the necklace. Colour spread over Lady Elisabeth's face once more but she was saved by the return of the two groups that had wandered off. Upon seeing Janet smiling brightly, Elisabeth quickly excused herself from Darcy's company and rushed over to her sister.
"Well?" Lady Elisabeth demanded as she pulled Janet away from the group with an apologetic smile to Bingley.
"Oh Lizzy! Charles, I cannot believe I can call him that... Charles proposed! I am to be married! He said that he loved me all the time... Oh, I am so happy! How shall I bear so much happiness?" Lady Janet chattered, her eyes shining with jubilation.
"I'm very happy for you Janet. It is time that the two of you became engaged," Elisabeth cried, hugging her sister. "You truly deserve all the happiness that you will get with Mr. Bingley."
"Thank you..." Janet paused and looked questioningly at her sister. "Where did you get that lovely necklace?"
"...Cousin Darcy gave it to me. It was his mother's and it traditionally belongs to the youngest daughter of the Fitzwilliam family. He thought it right that I should have it."
Janet raised her eyebrows in a manner similar to that of Elisabeth. "Am I to believe that you actually think he gave that to you because of some tradition? There is no doubt in my mind that it is an offering of love."
Lady Elisabeth smiled happily. "We shall have to have a talk later. I'd rather not do so now in front of so many people, especially as you have such a wonderful announcement to make."
Chapter 35 ~ Viscount Hamerton, the Wicked
Lady Janet Fitzwilliam and Charles Bingley had delayed announcing what all had already guessed until the day following Lady Elisabeth's birthday, not wanting to take the attention away from her. However, by the twenty-eighth the wedding was all that was being discussed in Matlock House as all were consumed with plans for the day which they had already decided would take place in the second week of August.
Mr. Bingley also delayed announcing the engagement to his sisters. As much as he loved them he did not want Caroline and Louisa getting the idea that his engagement to Janet meant an invitation for them to journey to Matlock House. The enjoyable time he was having with his soon-to-be family would be disrupted by their uninvited arrival and he was not yet ready to share Janet with them.
The twenty-seventh was not only a day for the announcement concerning Janet and Bingley, it was also the day that Colonel Fitzwilliam revealed a plan that he had been mulling over for some time. He was to retire from the army and, with the fortune that he had been able to amass in his years of service, he was going to look for the right piece of property where he might settle down.
Colonel Fitzwilliam's news was met with approval from the whole family. Janet and Elisabeth rightly assumed, taking a moment from considering their own loves, that Lady Edith Laurence was playing a big part in their brother's decision. In the last weeks amidst the playful bantering of Richard and Edith it had become increasingly apparent that something more than an enjoyment of one another's company had arisen on both sides. It was only a matter of time before the family would be planning another wedding.
On the twenty-eighth of the month Viscount Allington left Matlock to return to Allington Park and, more precisely, Cathy Benson. He left with quietly whispered wishes of good luck from his parents and Elisabeth in regard to his endeavor to marry Miss Benson. Lord Allington went away emboldened by their support and certain that he would not, and could not, wait long to ask Cathy.
In the flurry of activity surrounding Lady Janet and Bingley, the Colonel's own announcement and the departure of Lord Allington, there was unfortunately little time for Darcy and Lady Elisabeth to meet. The only instances in which they saw anything of one another was during the daily meals and that was hardly conducive to private conversation.
A second and rather unpleasant barrier between Mr. Darcy and Lady Elisabeth was admitted into the drawing room where all the ladies were assembled late in the afternoon of the twenty-eighth. The footman opened the door, saying in emotionless tones, "Viscount Hamerton."
Five pairs of eyes, each revealing a different feeling towards this presence, were turned on him as the gentleman strolled into the room and bowed to the ladies. Lady Matlock quickly hid her displeasure at his unexpected appearance and played the part of an excellent hostess, asking him to take a seat. He only did so after greeting his sister and pausing to smile in a not altogether appropriate manner at Lady Elisabeth.
Lord Hamerton had changed from his fancy and perhaps overdone town clothes into attire better suited to that of a country gentleman. Sadly, the affect this created was one that rendered him exceedingly handsome and, in that case, dangerous. The exercise of the ride over from Danbury Hall had given him a distinctly robust look; something that was most definitely to his advantage.
"Why did you not tell me of your coming, Phillip?" Lady Edith asked her brother, glaring a warning at him when his eyes continued to linger on Elisabeth.
Leaning back in his chair with an air of complete relaxation, Hamerton answered, "My decision to come was so sudden. There was so little time for me to write you. I probably would have been here before any note."
Edith nodded her head at this, although she believed none of her brother's reasoning. He was always one for doing the impulsive, even if it was as simple as arriving unexpectedly.
"Are you comfortably settled in at Danbury, Lord Hamerton?" Lady Elisabeth asked, seeing that her mother was more occupied by trying to keep a pleasant smile on her face than thinking of conversation and that Edith was seething over Hamerton's bad manners. Janet and Georgiana were little acquainted with the gentleman and could hardly be relied upon to speak to him.
"I shall be when I return. I left my servant in charge of everything. The temptations awaiting me at Matlock were too much to resist, so I came over as soon as possible. It has been too long since I've had the pleasure of your company."
Elisabeth shifted nervously in her seat, seeing that Lord Hamerton had directed his comment solely to her and with a good deal more emphasis placed on some of his phrases than was proper. In spite of this it was left up to her to reply with a customary polite sentence saying how happy she was to hear that and that it had been a while since they last met.
Hamerton, with a discreet glance at Elisabeth, then turned his attention to his hostess. "I trust your husband and sons are in good health, Lady Matlock?"
"Yes, thank you. Lord Matlock, Colonel Fitzwilliam, my nephew Darcy and Mr. Bingley are in the village at the moment, though they should be returning soon."
"I'm glad to hear it," Hamerton said, although he was not at all pleased with the information that Fitzwilliam Darcy was presently staying at the estate. He had been under the impression that that gentleman had returned to Pemberley and Lord Hamerton had come to Matlock with the hope of finding no competition for Lady Elisabeth's attention. It was disheartening considering his rival's obviously honourable intentions and love for her yet, at the same time, Hamerton resolved that he would have to be twice as charming to the lady to ensure her distraction her from her cousin.
"What of Lord Allington?" asked he, following a moment's pause.
"My eldest son is in Kent on business." Lady Matlock saw no reason to elaborate on Lord Allington's business with Allington Park; it was no concern of Hamerton's.
Lord Hamerton saw the hesitation in Elisabeth's mother and realised he would have to tread carefully with her. Lady Matlock was too shrewd and intelligent. One could not easily conceal his interest in her daughter, she would never believe that he truly liked Lady Elisabeth and that he was not out for all that he could get.
Hamerton stayed talking to the ladies for some minutes before asking if he might accompany his sister on a walk and acquaint her with news of their family. Edith willingly accepted as she wanted to be rid of her brother from the house, and the estate if possible, but that was sadly not to be. Her brother was able to find many things to discuss in the course of their long walk in the gardens and when he escorted her back to the house and into the safety of the drawing room the gentleman had returned. At that time the hour of the evening meal was drawing near and left Lady Matlock no choice but to invite Lord Hamerton to dine with them, an invitation that he readily accepted whilst glancing at her youngest daughter.
Dinner was more of the same with Lord Hamerton present. He annoyed his sister, although she tried to conceal her feelings on the matter. Lady Elisabeth was constantly finding herself under the scrutiny of Lord Hamerton and her Cousin Darcy, who kept looking at Hamerton and glaring at his audacity, and then glancing back at her to see if she was in some way welcoming Hamerton's ill-concealed interest.
The ladies, in particular Lady Elisabeth, were relieved when they were at last presented with the time to move into the music room and leave the gentlemen to themselves. Elisabeth had hoped for a few moments to compose her thoughts and actions before being thrown into company with Lord Hamerton again, but that was not to be. Apparently the gentlemen found the intrusion of their guest a hindrance to their after dinner talk so they soon entered the music room after only one glass of port.
Lord Hamerton graciously accepted a cup of coffee from Lady Matlock, locating her youngest daughter with his eyes. Lady Elisabeth was sitting quietly by herself in the small alcove provided by the window, her head bent over her needlework. She was at a perfect distance from the rest of the company as to ensure private conversation.
Taking a sip of his coffee, Hamteron leant comfortably against the windowsill. "May I finally take the opportunity of saying how very well you look this evening, Lady Elisabeth?"
"I look no different now than how I did on any of our previous meetings, my lord," Elisabeth replied politely but not encouragingly.
"Oh, but you do..." Lord Hamerton's voice quieted to intimate accents. "I have not see you wear such an ornament as that..." He indicated the necklace that Darcy had given her. "It suits you more than I think you know; the way it draws attention to your sparkling eyes and flatters your fine complexion... which is becoming rosier with each word I speak."
Elisabeth had kept her head dutifully bent over her work, not wanting to offer this rake any incentive, but at his latest words she looked up in surprise and indignation. He had spoken true. Her colour had risen but the reason for it was different than what he supposed; it was due to his boldness and the fact that she could feel her Cousin Darcy's eyes on the both of them.
Drawing her shoulders back with dignity, she said haughtily, "Do not presume to speak so familiarly to me, Lord Hamerton. A true gentleman would never say such indecent things to a lady."
Lord Hamerton's lascivious smile spread across his face. "Indeed, but I think you know that I am no true gentleman so you cannot expect the same of me as you would others."
Lady Elisabeth's exasperation was increasing by the minute but there was little else she could say or do that would not make her look as bad as he. Instead, she made an attempt to ignore him and continue with her work.
"Shall I interpret your silence as an agreement to my reasoning?"
"No," said Elisabeth, sharply. "I am insulted by the free manner in which you address me."
"Lady Elisabeth, upon my honour, I assure you that was the last thing I would ever do."
"My lord, your 'honour' is not enough to assure me of any such thing." Elisabeth's frustration was reaching new heights as she remained at a loss for a way in which she might discourage his improper attentions.
Hamerton's chance to reply and Elisabeth's salvation came in the form of Lady Edith. She could see that her brother was only digging himself into a deeper hole. Not wanting her friend to be upset by the sort of things Edith knew Hamerton was capable of saying, she called Lady Elisabeth over to her and Lady Janet where they were whispering about fabrics and trimmings for wedding gowns.
The Viscount, now thwarted in talking to Elisabeth and not wanting to attempt another tiresome conversation with the gentlemen - the port after dinner had been enough of a trial - decided to return to Danbury Hall. He bid them all a pleasant good-bye and left them in peace. However, his departure was bittersweet for they knew very well that he would continue calling at Matlock as long as he was in the vicinity.
Chapter 36A ~ Digression From Theme
July 2, 1813
Allington Park, Kent
Lord Allington paced the extent of the small clearing that spanned the property lines of both Redmond Hall and Allington Park. Once again he reached into the breast pocket of his jacket and pulled out the engagement ring he had chosen on his return journey through London. Cathy was a petite girl. She would have been made to look silly by wearing the large, bejeweled engagement ring that his Grandmother Fitzwilliam had left him for his bride.
Safely stashing the ring away, he moved to lean against a tree and concentrate on Cathy rather than his increasing nervousness and the questions racing through his mind. Would she come today? Did she love him? And more importantly; would her answer to his proposal be everything that he hoped for?
Miss Cathy Benson was not a girl who would have dazzled the whole of the ton with her striking beauty, but neither was she plain. Cathy's beauty was subtle. It showed in the prettiness of her slim, tall figure and in her own unaffected grace and elegance. To add to these other attributes she had a rosy complexion that was complemented by her deep brown hair and eyes of a similar colour.
Lord Allington let out a small laugh directed at himself when he thought back to his first impression of her features. He had found her hair to be dull, her skin pale, her nose too short and her mouth too wide. As to the rest of her, he dared not think of what his original impression had been for he was certain to regret it. The first meeting between Lord Allington and Miss Cathy Benson had occurred in this very grove. He had been pausing to catch his breath from an exhilarating ride over the estate and she had been collecting flowers to take back to Redmond Hall.
The exchange of usual pleasantries that soon followed was enough to leave Allington with the conclusion that, judging from her manners, she was of genteel birth. However, Cathy lacked both information and intelligence to draw attention to her. She was too silly to be anything but irritating and it aggravated him to see that she seemed to have a similar liking to the grove as he.
Allington was further annoyed when he returned to the grove the following day and found that Cathy once more made an appearance. She asked where he was from and was awed into silence upon discovering he was a Viscount. Later that evening they met at a small drawing room party on another estate. Upon being introduced to Cathy's sisters by Mrs. Redmond, who was escorting the girls in place of their mother, his opinion of Cathy improved greatly. He realised what a rare treasure she was compared to them.
The weeks passed by and every day found the couple in the clearing. At first it was a matter of some chance for they often just 'happened' to be there and at usually varying times, which struck them both as very odd, although they never remarked on it.
As their acquaintance progressed they did take to planning the time of their next meeting. Lord Allington soon revised his thinking about Cathy upon discovering that there was truly an intelligent mind behind her pretty eyes and an endearing personality that quite touched his heart. All she had needed was someone who was willing to discover those qualities in her. He realised shortly before leaving for Matlock that he had fallen quite hopelessly in love with her and he hoped she felt the same for him.
This was how he came to be waiting in the clearing the day after his late return to Allington Park and dwelling on all the aspects of Cathy Benson that had made him fall in love with her.
"I am glad to see you have returned safe and sound, my lord." Cathy's light voice reached him as she emerged from the trees on the opposite side of the clearing.
Allington was so surprised by her sudden appearance that he could not prevent himself from jumping at the sound of her voice. Cathy laughed when she saw this and called to him as she walked through the long grass, "I did not mean to startle you Lord Allington."
"Indeed, I did not suspect that was your intention. How are you Miss Benson?" The Viscount furtively straightened his attire and made sure the ring was where it should be.
"Very well, sir. I hope your sister's birthday celebrations went off as planned?" Cathy finally reached him and he noticed that her complexion was rosy from the exercise and her hair was slightly dishevelled from the wind, even with her bonnet tied on her head.
"Oh, yes. It went well. Beth was extremely pleased and surprised with all that we had done for her. I think it safe to say that it was an enjoyable afternoon for all."
"I'm glad." The couple turned to walk along the edge of the clearing and continue their talk.
"How is your mother, Miss Benson?" Lord Allington asked, helping Cathy to fill her flower basket by pausing to pick some of the pretty foliage that filled the area. He had often teased her that soon the clearing would be altogether stripped of flowers if they continued to have their meetings.
"Mama is not yet feeling her best; her nerves trouble her and her head is aching. I could barely escape the house but I did so want to welcome you back to the neighbourhood, Lord Allington." Cathy blushed at a comment that sounded so forward and turned her attention to the flowers in her basket. "My mother even refused to go to the assembly that was held last night. Instead, Mrs. Redmond acted as a chaperon to myself and my sisters. It is very unusual for Mama to refuse the delights of an assembly. She is so unsettled since our stay in London after Papa's death."
"I am sorry to hear it. I should very much like to meet your mother."
"And she you. Mama has heard much of you from Mrs. Redmond. It is all she can speak of! Lord Allington this and Lord Allington that; it gets quite tiresome. I think she has quite determined that you are to marry her daughter, Lottie, and she will not tolerate a refusal, you know." Cathy pointed a flower severely at Allington, imitating the over-powering manner of Mrs. Redmond.
"Indeed," murmured Allington, trying to restrain a laugh.
"Oh forgive me," Cathy suddenly whispered, guiltily putting the flower in the basket and looking down with shame. "I have been trying to curb my inappropriate remarks these days. It is no wonder my Papa thought I was such a silly girl. How I truly wish he could be here to observe my efforts over this last while. I do not mean to offend you Lord Allington."
"Do not trouble yourself, Miss Benson. You have not done anything to offend me. I find your description of Mrs. Redmond very apt and highly amusing."
"Even if that is the case, you cannot tell me that my words are appropriate, however kind and good you are," Cathy continued, her voice and manner still wilting as a result of her improper conduct.
"Perhaps not in a large gathering, but in my company you never need fear making such remarks. Given the similar turn of our minds on most subjects, I would not be surprised to find that I agree with you."
"Lord Allington, you are very kind to say so."
"It is not merely kindness, it is the truth," he said gently.
"Thank you, but I do not want to appear to be so crude before you, by imitating a lady who has been so kind to my mother, sisters and myself. It is not right to be so unfeeling to Mrs. Redmond. She has her faults like anyone."
"I guess you are right." Lord Allington paused. "Although I never met him, I think your Papa would be proud of you, Miss Benson."
Cathy looked up at him with a beaming smile spreading across her face. Words she did not have, but she did not need words to express what such a thought meant to her. It was clear she had loved her father very much, yet never quite felt the affection was returned.
"What time is it, my lord?" Cathy suddenly asked when they had walked a little way in silence.
Examining his watch, Allington announced that it was nearing eleven o'clock.
"Oh, in that case I'm afraid I have to be going. Mama was in such a state when I left... I should be getting back before she is further upset by my absence. I shall see you tomorrow, I am sure. Good-day, sir." Cathy dropped a quick curtsey and made to leave but Allington took hold of her arm to prevent her.
"Can you spare me just a few more moments, Miss Benson?"
Cathy looked up at him in surprise. He had never asked her to stay longer before and there was something else different. Her companion's face, though still smiling, was now more serious and as his eyes met hers, her heart gave a little flutter.
"I think I had best just say this instead of trying to make some sort of pretty speech that will sound foolish to the both of us. I can only tell you what I feel, Miss Benson... Cathy. In the days since our first meeting I have come to love you very deeply. I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you. Please, my dearest Cathy, consent to be by wife?"
Cathy's mind was reeling from all he had said. She never suspected for a moment that he loved her. She had hoped he might come to like her but she had never dreamt that he would actually love her enough to propose marriage. Only in her wildest fantasies had Cathy seen those wishes realised.
"Oh, Lord Allington," she finally gasped. "Yes! Yes, I will marry you."
He grinned in relief. "You love me then?"
"I would hardly say yes to marrying you if I didn't, sir," Cathy gently teased. "I have to thank my sister for that frame of mind. While none of us could afford to be choosy, she is determined to marry for love or else end an old maid."
Lord Allington laughed at her words that were tumbling out of her mouth in a giddy jumble. "Well then, my love, when can I speak to your mother? I have already been granted my parents' approval. I want to be married to you as soon as may be."
Cathy paused a moment to think. "Perhaps it would be best if you came to Redmond around two o'clock this afternoon. My sisters and I often sit on one of the little side terraces. The servant can direct you... I shall try and convince Mama to join us this afternoon. I just hope that no one alerts Mrs. Redmond to your arrival. I shudder to think what her reaction to the engagement shall be."
"Oh yes, Mrs. Redmond wants me to marry Lottie and I am sorry to be breaking so many hearts in doing so, but I will marry you. No one else would ever suit. I shall be at Redmond Hall at shortly after two, love." Lord Allington placed a small kiss on Cathy's hand while reaching into his pocket. "I must confess that I almost forgot to give you this." He gently slipped the ring onto her finger, glad to see that it fit.
"How beautiful it is! Oh, but I should not wear it until you have asked Mama. She would be sure to see it."
"Well, hide it in your room until this afternoon... I had best be going, Cathy."
"I shall be looking for you this afternoon, Lord Allington."
"Cathy," he said turning around to face her. "My name is Tom."
She blushed. "I shall be looking for you this afternoon... Tom."