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Chapter 30a

Posted on Thursday, 9 January 2003

So that morning two coaches left going in different directions. The first more regal one left bound toward Derbyshire with two passengers intent on drinking a bottle of extremely good brandy. This the Colonel had indeed filched from the Lady Catherine's cabinet not long after last night's dinner. He knew that if Darcy didn't come to his room that night, he would probably want to talk while riding back to his home, and so kept the bottle handy.

After a half hour of total silence the Colonel smiled at his cousin, and retrieved the bottle from its hiding place behind the cushions. Darcy shook his head and tried to smile at the still boyish antics of his older cousin. Richard took little time popping the cork and drinking from the bottle, relishing the rich aroma coming from the opened container. It was warm as it went down his throat. He offered it to Darcy. After a pause, he grabbed the bottle and took a very large amount.

"That will do, Darcy," warned the Colonel grabbing the bottle back, "or I will be blessed with seeing that amount and more come back up."

Darcy wiped his mouth and let out the longest sigh as he stared at his cousin unable to voice what he was feeling at the moment even though Richard could guess. The swaying rhythm of the coach did not deter the silent stare he fixed on his cousin.

Finally Richard handed the bottle back to Darcy stating, "If you promise to take small sips, I will let you share." He saw Darcy nod as he looked out the window.

He sipped the warm liquor silently as he watched the scenery go passed the window, but not really seeing any of it. His mind was remembering his confrontation with Elizabeth. Richard watched as Darcy slowly consumed half the bottle, while Richard waited for Darcy to finally open up.

"I made her an offer and she refused me," he finally said as he sipped more of the brandy, feeling the warmth of it steel his insides, still not looking at his cousin.

"That I have already surmised," retorted Richard, grabbing the bottle from his cousin's hand. Taking another drink himself and sighing at its warmth, he added, "You have yet to inform me as to her reason for refusing one of the wealthiest men in England." Darcy sighed.

"Because she hates me," was his whispered reply, as he closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead with his hand.

"Hates you? That is astonishing," the Colonel said in a surprised tone pausing his taking another sip of the brandy.

"Why?" sighed Darcy, but not really wanting to talk anymore.

"Because only yesterday when I talked to her she had a more congenial attitude towards you."

Darcy eyes came alert and focused on his cousin suddenly understanding everything now. Then his head leaned back against the cushions, closed his eyes again, and he began to laugh, but it was a bitter kind of chuckle that almost sounded like crying.

"What?" asked the Colonel totally unaware of what he had done.

Darcy opened his eyes to stare at his cousin, while he reached for the bottle and took a large swig, and wiped his mouth with his sleeve, his eyes never leaving Richard's.

Finally Darcy took a deep breath and said, "She hates me for separating Bingley from her sister."

"Oh, Darcy," Richard moaned knowing how he had inadvertently sabotaged his cousin. "I thought Bingley had fallen again for some silly town chit. I am so dreadfully sorry."

But Darcy was shaking his head, sipping more from the bottle. He said, "It doesn't matter. She is so bright, in time she would found out anyway."

"But did you not try to explain to her?"

"She would not believe me, and for good reason," Darcy said and paused, which made Richard perk up knowing Darcy was going to relate something else to him. "It seems our friend Wickham has been talking to her about me."

"Oh, spreading his usual poison about the Darcy family no doubt," sighed Richard taking another swig of the offered bottle. "And she believes him?"

"I wrote her a letter and delivered it into her hands this morning telling of all our dealings with him including what transpired last summer."

"Was that wise?"

"No matter how she feels about me, she needed to know of his ruthlessness, and I trust her integrity to keep it quiet."

"Yes, I agree," said Richard nodding his head. "And what did she say after she read your missive?"

"There was no opportunity to speak to her before she left Huntsford," he whispered.

"But her opinion of you surely would have been raised," offered Richard, not understanding his cousin's reluctance to pursue her.

When he saw Darcy shake his head and close his eyes again, leaning his head on the seat cushions, Richard asked, "Darcy, if you love this girl you why are you giving her up?"

Darcy opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling of the carriage, but did not answer. Richard watched him staring, refusing to answer, refusing to move.

"Darcy, do you not love her?" Richard asked, finally getting Darcy to react. His gaze came down from the ceiling to stare into his cousin's eyes, and he slowly shook his head.

"I do not," he finally whispered, his face showing such remorse at hearing himself say those three words, that his cousins could not bring himself to inquire further, even though he was at a loss to understand the behavior of either him or her. They rode the rest of the way in silence without even the comfort of a drink-induced stupor to aid either of them.

Chapter 30b

Posted on Thursday, 9 January 2003

The coach with Elizabeth and Mariah delivered them to the station, and Elizabeth let Mariah out first to see the sights. Lydia and Kitty came with the Longbourn carriage to surprise them, and they kept the mood light during the journey back to home. But arriving home Elizabeth was not happy with what awaited her. Jane was not herself, but tried hard to hide it. She was despondent about Mr. Bingley, and so Elizabeth was reluctant to divulge much of Mr. Darcy's letter except as regards Mr. Wickham. But Jane came into Lizzy's room to ask her of the news, and Elizabeth told her of all that had happened at Huntsford including the proposal.

"Mr. Darcy? Proposed? He was in love with you all this time?" Stunned, she turned around on the seat at the dressing table to stare at her sister in disbelief.

"He never mentioned love, Jane," reminded Elizabeth. "It was a marriage of convenience which he knew I could never accept." She sat on the bed playing with the ends of her hair, a childhood habit that told Jane how conflicted Lizzy was.

"But he must be in love with you to suggest marriage even though he never said the words, Lizzy."

"I cannot believe that, Jane, when he expressed himself so clearly about everything else. No, it was not love that prompted his proposal."

Jane came over and sat beside Lizzy and held her hands and looked into her sister's face. "I know you have not always liked him, dear Lizzy, but you seem to be able to admire him especially as regards his help with your fear. Perhaps he thought he might one day love you."

"No, Jane," she argued shaking her head. "There is a barrier he places before himself to keep out any feelings as regards love. I have felt it when I have been near him. He comes close to the feeling only to shoo it away again. No, I do not believe he is a man capable of loving anyone."

"And you could not accept a man who only gives you high regard?" Jane waited for Elizabeth to look at her as she replied,

"You know I would never be happy in that situation." Elizabeth looked down at her hands in Jane's, and added, "And yet he is so amiable at times. I just wish I knew why he acts thus. Maybe then I could at least understand him."

"Be his friend again?"

"Yes, perhaps," she sighed. "But we are never to know. He will never return to Hertfordshire."

"Yes," whispered Jane sadly thinking of another. Elizabeth took Jane in her arms feeling her sister's sadness as she thought of Mr. Bingley.

If only Mr. Darcy knew how he had hurt Jane, thought Elizabeth. But she couldn't realize a way to tell him since she would never see him again.

Chapter 31a

Posted on Sunday, 12 January 2003

Their aunt and uncle Gardiner came within a six weeks, and all four of their children began to distract Jane into being more her self again at Longbourn. Jane loved her dear little cousins so that she was happiest attending to them, and they relished all the attention she bestowed on them, and were constantly wishing her to be with them. Elizabeth hoped it would remain so as she embarked on her journey to the North Country with aunt and uncle.

Aunt and Uncle Gardiner were pleasant company on the trip into the northern counties. They could sense that Elizabeth was not herself but not yet ready to reveal her difficulties to them. And so, they simply tried to keep their favorite niece entertained with histories of the region as well as tours of parks and large estates, which they knew she loved to explore. Their excursions to Kenelworth and Blenheim was enjoyed by all, and kept Elizabeth's mind too busy to dwell on whatever was bringing her spirits low.

It was only at night when she was abed that she let her mind drift to back to Rosings Parks, and the horrendous way she and Darcy had parted to keep her awake until the wee hours of morning.

It had taken her a long time not to reflect on that time with such abhorrence, but when she had walked the paths around Longbourn before she had left with her relations on their holiday, she did begin to think on the scene with the distance and impartiality that only time provides. And now while she toured these northern counties with their vast expanses of natural beauty, did she think back as a more casual observer to the incident that had been so hurtful to her.

She recalled some of her own conversation during that time, and was appalled at her arrogance, and thoughtlessness. Hadn't both Darcy and the Colonel implied that Bingley fell in love so often, that Darcy was duty bound by brotherly friendship to rescue him? And did not Charlotte observe that Jane was so very reserved even around Mr. Bingley whom she claimed to care for? Could her demeanor have fooled Darcy into thinking her indifferent?

And had not Darcy's letter confirmed her suspicions that Wickham was a man not to be trusted not matter how friendly he appeared? Surely he wouldn't fabricate anything so heinous as a tale involving his own sister. No, she thought. Probably everything Wickham had said to her regarding Darcy was lies.

And had not Darcy offered her an explanation of the differences in his status to that of her family that would be much talked of should he ally himself to them? His insults were hurtful, she realized, but also she had to acknowledge them as a true representation of one observing her family. The fact that Darcy would ignore their vulgarity and impropriety and still wish to be associated with them showed her how highly was his regard for her.

She often wondered if the consequences would be any different if they were to have the scene done over. If he had not be so insufferably smug, if she had not felt so much indignation, then perhaps the results would have been less antagonistic, less caustic.

She finally came to the realization that she had been too harsh, had too quickly accused instead of questioned with an open mind. Where had all her father's inspiration of wit and humor retreated to defuse such a volatile situation? Had she learned nothing at his knee?

And yet she could never come to acknowledge that the results would have been so different that she could have accepted him. For she did not love him as a wife should love a husband, and she still felt his reluctance to show her anything other than regard. She had seen daily proof of what such a lack of true love became over the years, and wished never to have that kind of a relationship.

But her opinion of Darcy had softened enough to hope that one day in the distant future they could meet as friends again. To meet now would be too soon. She would need much more time to meditate on and perfect a speech to practice that told him that her opinion of him had, as Jane predicted indeed improved upon closer acquaintance. At this last thought she finally drifted off to a more restful sleep than she had had in months. Elizabeth's last thought before sleep finally engulfed her was that Jane was indeed an angel.

Chapter 31b

Posted on Sunday, 12 January 2003

After many more pleasant days of touring the trio at last came to the little town of Lambton deep in Derbyshire where Aunt Gardiner had grown up as a girl. She was extremely excited about seeing how the town had changed. She also wanted to visit a few of her acquaintances that still resided in the town.

Mr. Gardiner settled the ladies at the Lambton Inn, and then went off to secure another carriage for the tours around the area. The one that they had hired was due to go back to London the next day. Mr. Gardiner said that there shouldn't be any trouble in securing a chaise since the tourists business was always brisk this time of year, and he would be back soon.

Elizabeth and her aunt went to their rooms to unpack and hang up their frocks. The chambermaid came with fresh linens, and Elizabeth asked about the name of the great estate toward the east. When the maid informed her of Pemberley, Elizabeth then asked if the family was there for the summer. The maid told her that they were not expected until fall, and then curtseyed, and left.

Well, thought Elizabeth, at least there would be no chance of her accidentally meeting Darcy, and calmed herself with a sigh. She then rejoined her aunt, and they went downstairs to be seated in the main room at a table for luncheon. Mr. Gardiner joined them just as they were being seated.

"I have found a chaise and two at the local livery," he told them. "And the fare was extremely reasonable."

"That is wonderful, my dear," replied his wife passing him some potatoes. "It should give us a chance to see at least a part of the country before nightfall."

"What do you say, Lizzy," prompted her uncle, his bushy eyebrows raising and lowering to entice a smile. "Are you up for a visit to some of the estates around here?"

She smiled back at his kind face, and put some peas on her plate and then passed the plate to him and said, "Uncle, I am at your disposal. You know I do not tire easily, especially in such warm company."

"Good, good," replied in kind. "Then we will be off to the estate that is closest to us."

Her aunt was eating, enjoying the roast when she had an idea. "There is another estate that you might have a fondness for viewing, Lizzy. Pemberley is not but five miles from here. It is not directly in our path, but not a mile out of the way. Would you like to see it as well while we are here?"

"Do you wish to see it, Aunt," Elizabeth ventured her inquiry cutting into a piece of the roast on her plate.

"I would not want to see it if it were just a grand house, Lizzy, but the grounds they say are wonderful to walk through."

Elizabeth was still uneasy about going there, but did truly wish to see if all the praise lavished upon the estate did it justice.

"Well, Lizzy?" inquired her uncle, his bushy eyebrows bobbing again. "Shall we go?"

"Yes," she answered with a smile. She had to admit she was curious to see the place that Darcy called home to get a better insight into his true character.

After their meal Mr. Gardiner accompanied Elizabeth and his wife to the livery where the chaise carriage had been hired.

The young man seemed friendly and cheerful. Her aunt and uncle knew of Elizabeth's fears, and kept themselves between her and the two docile horses.

"'Ere you go, ladies. Get in on this side if you please," he said as he opened the left side door, which was on the street side instead of the sidewalk side of the carriage. None of the passengers thought much of it after an initial curiosity of getting in on the street side. He handed the ladies into the door of the open chaise. Mr. Gardiner got in of his own accord and slammed the door as the young man jumped up in the driver's seat.

"Does you folks have a particular destination in mind this fine day?" he asked touching the reins to the horses who responded pulling away from the side to the middle of the lane.

"We were interested in the large estate to the east," began Mr. Gardiner.

"Oh, Pemberley it is then," replied the young man and he ambled the chaise away down the lane and onto the road bordered by full leaved trees.

They seemed to have been traveling for almost a half hour when Mr. Gardiner smiled and quipped, "I think we have seen forests enough for even you, Lizzy."

She smiled back and said, "It is a wonderful park. I doubt I would ever become weary of it."

After the next break in the trees there it was, a magnificent house set on a lovely slope of a hill, a large pond near the front lawn. The chaise slowed to a stop. Elizabeth couldn't take her eyes from it admiring its stateliness. They all admired the grand house for all its beauty and majesty.

"It's beautiful," whispered her aunt. "I don't think I have seen a house quite so well situated.""

"Yes," whispered Elizabeth. As she viewed the truly majestic house, she was suddenly overcome thinking of the enormous differences in status between herself and its owner, and almost simultaneously the fact that she could have been the mistress there. She swallowed hard to keep from panting. She pulled her eyes away when she felt a hand on her arm.

"Shall we apply to the housekeeper for a tour inside?" Asked her uncle. There went his funny fuzzy eyebrows again.

"Yes," agreed Elizabeth smiling. She admitted to herself that she did want to see inside the house and the grounds because Darcy in his praises had truly not done it justice in his descriptions. It was truly the most wonderful place she had ever seen.

Chapter 32

Posted on Sunday, 12 January 2003

As the chaise slowed and ambled slowly into the gates of the house and came around the circle entrance, and for some reason the driver veered right instead of left in the drive so that the house was on the right side of the carriage.

A servant came from the house and down the stairs before the driver could get down and have them exit the carriage on the left side.

The servant opened the right side door, and handed Elizabeth down on the right side and very near the horse.

The driver's face paled, and Mr. And Mrs. Gardiner both were uneasy with Elizabeth so near the horses and exited on the right side of the carriage quickly to get between Elizabeth and the horses.

The driver started to say, "Miss, please move out of the way. My horse is a bit skittish and-"

Just then the horse whinnied as if saying there were too many people around him and he was scared and he began to shake. The driver thought the horse would surely bolt and started to grab the reins from the brake pole in the driver's seat.

Her aunt and uncle were mystified when Elizabeth smiled at the animal, and approached the frightened horse, his eyes showing white, and ears back. He whinnied again in warning.

"Miss, I wouldn't go no nearer-" the driver began again, but Elizabeth just focused on the horse, on his eyes with a voice so soft that even the servant standing beside her could barely hear her.

All were stunned as Elizabeth talked to the horse like an old friend instead of a sworn enemy.

"All is well here," she said. "There is no one here that will harm you. Be calm."

She held out her gloved hand, and the horse began to whinny again, and then suddenly stopped, and watched as this soft-spoken human slowly approached him. The horse sniffed the air, and then waited for her to near him. When she was beside his head her gloved hand gently caressed his cheek as she whispered in his ear. The roan colored horse stopped shaking, and listened to whatever she was saying, and became calm with her gentle ministrations.

To the amazement of all, the horse began to rub his nose on the palm of her glove just the way she had remembered Sampson did. His ears were up, his eyes no longer showed white of a frighten animal, and he sighed, and seemed the most docile animal in the world.

After a few moments, Elizabeth gently put her arms around the creature's now lower head, and hugged him the same way she had done with Sampson. The horse responded the same way too. He breathed softly, his eyes fluttered and then closed, and he sighed again and fell into a gentle sleepy state.

Elizabeth pulled her arms slowly away from the great horse's head, and backed away without a word. The entire group gathered around her was speechless at first, and then began to all talk at once.

"You charmed him, Miss," whispered the drive still looking at his now docile gelding. "You charmed the fright right out of him."

"Lizzy?" Aunt Gardiner asked, looking flabbergasted at her niece as if she didn't know her. "Can you explain what just occurred?"

"You heard the driver, my dear," interjected Mr. Gardiner. "She can charm horses now. And after your fright of them all your life, Lizzy," he continued. "What a talent to have. I say."

Elizabeth smiled at her uncle and kissed his cheek. "I had a lesson or two in Hertfordshire many months ago, and only now had the opportunity to see if it would work."

"I say it work, Lizzy," he replied. "It worked like a charm." And he laughed at his own pun.

"Will the horse be all right?" her aunt asked.

The driver patted the now docile animal and said, "Yes, sir, right as rain now. He won't give me no trouble at all."

"Well then, shall we apply to the housekeeper for that tour now, Lizzy?"

"Yes, let us see this marvelous house," agreed Elizabeth taking each of their arms, and following the servant into the entrance.

Chapter 33a

Posted on Thursday, 16 January 2003

Elizabeth and her relatives were introduced to the housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds who they took an instant liking to. She was sweet lady whose confidence showed as she personally led them through each room on the tour commenting on different aspects of the rooms and the members of the family both past and present. A no nonsense kind of woman, she helped them understand the attitude of the servants regarding the Darcy's. Elizabeth came to know them through her eyes as people who had wealth, but were generous to all their tenants and servants alike. Honesty and generosity were foremost in the mindset of the Darcy clan, according to Mrs. Reynolds from generations back, and the present owner was not different. She couldn't expound enough on the virtues of Mr. Darcy much to the surprise of the Gardiners who were led to believe otherwise.

"There's not a kinder or more generous landlord or master," she said as they came into the gallery where portraits of family members hung on walls of both sides of the long room. "Here is a good likeness of him painted just last year as well as a portrait of his parents when they were first married."

As they all observed the large portrait of Mr. Darcy, his face looking down at them, Elizabeth couldn't help but notice that the artist had captured in oil the unseen barrier that showed in the eyes of his subject, a barrier that separated Mr. Darcy from others.

Their gaze went from Darcy's painting to that of his parents as a young married couple. A lively girl about Elizabeth's age looked out from the portrait with a sly smile much like Darcy's when he was amused played across the face. Her eyes were a light blue, the color of the sky, and seemed alive with mirth and mischievous brought on by happiness. Elizabeth couldn't help but smile back at the face in the painting thinking that she would have probably liked her indeed.

The gentleman standing behind the woman in the portrait had the stance and air of a man of wealth and prestige bordering on arrogance, but his face told another story all together. She saw contentment in his eyes that said he was a happy man who had the love of the woman of his dreams. Even the position of his hands gently on her shoulders and her hand over one of his, which was an unusual pose for this kind of portrait, seemed to say that she was his, and he was hers.

Elizabeth stole a glance at her relations and saw that same look pass between them, and knew they thought as she did about the couple in the painting. They were very much in love.

She glanced again at Darcy's portrait and his sad countenance, and sighed. Finally, they began to wander down the gallery to other paintings with Mrs. Reynolds giving commentary.

Mrs. Reynolds had taken them to all the public rooms including the library that Elizabeth entered only to be astonished by shelves that lined all four walls from floor to ceiling and comfortable couches and tables with lamps and chairs all around to invite and encourage readers. Surely no one could have read all these books, she thought as her hand caressed the backs of the books on the shelves closest to her. She noticed a great deal of poetry, and many of them that had been much used in that section. Shakespeare seemed a bit dog-eared as well as Blake, and Dunne and Cowper. She smiled knowing her favorites were also much read by others in the house.

The tour of the house ended in the music room that was as the rest of the house lavish, but elegant with many couches and chairs surrounding a piano and harp nestled in one of the corners. Mrs. Reynolds remarked that the piano was a gift from the master to his sister on her sixteenth birthday, and that she had also taken up learning to play the harp that must have filled the house with a heavenly music. It was clear to them that the housekeeper had not only a good opinion of her master, but a great fondness for him as well.

Mrs. Gardiner noticed that as the tour progressed Elizabeth became more and more subdued hardly making any comments or asking any questions, and she wondered why her niece would behave so differently in this house than the other houses they had toured. It didn't make sense to her that just because Elizabeth had an acquaintance with the owner that touring the house would cause her such unease. She made a mental note to ask Lizzy when they had a moment alone.

With each room Elizabeth become more reluctant to even be in his house, and felt she was an intruder; that because she had refused his proposal she didn't belong here even on a tour, and felt more and more uncomfortable just being on his property. It was only that her aunt and uncle wanted to keep on with the tour that kept her from requesting they leave. The fact that she could have been the mistress of all she surveyed didn't make her feel any better. She sighed hoping the tour was soon to be complete.

Chapter 33b

Posted on Thursday, 16 January 2003

While Elizabeth along with her aunt and uncle were touring the great house at Pemberley, its master was just riding into the lawn from London atop Sampson.

All these months of separating his friend as well as himself from Hertfordshire, Darcy had hoped his mind would not dwell on Elizabeth. But her image lingered whether awake or when asleep. At least while he slept she seemed more amiable to him as they walked the halls of Pemberley. In his dreams she smiled at him and caressed his cheek, and he held her close, kissed her lips, and then she would laugh in her beguiling way and run out of his arms down the hallway and disappear.

He would always awake with a start, his heart pounding, and he would realize it had only been a dream. She was not with him and never would be with him. After the disastrous incident at Rosings Park, he felt sure that would be the end of it, for even when she finally accepted his letter it was clear that she could barely abide his presence, let alone his friendship.

Even Darcy's distractions didn't help him rid her from his mind. He could not stop thinking of her during his work on estate business where he would begin his work only to find himself an hour later still on the same letter. His fencing lessons were no better. His teacher would be constantly reminding him to 'focus, Mr. Darcy' and say 'you need to concentrate'. Even his chess club that he frequented to keep his mind busy now reminded him of her when she had played the rapid form of chess with his cousin at Rosings Park.

Then he would remembered her eyes when they directed their anger his way admonishing him for his arrogance during his proposal. Hadn't he just asked Elizabeth to secure an heir to inherit his beloved Pemberley? Hadn't that thought been in the back of his mind ever since his father's death five years ago? Hadn't he always assumed that at some future time Georgiana would be the one to marry and have a family and not him? And because of the incident at Ramsgate didn't he realize it might have to be him after all to try to make a match instead of her? Neither of them, it seemed were capable of finding suitable partners with the evitable conclusion that Pemberley would one day be owned by others.

He went over in his mind the words he used in his proposal, and winced at how hurtful they sounded now. The thought of Elizabeth readily accepting him just to aid her family was ludicrous knowing her personality. He had known that she had already turned down one such proposal. Yet he still asked her in that fashion using the least amount of tact. Had she taught him nothing of tact in all his dealings with her? Yes, and he had even insulted her family during his proposal. How he could have said those remarks during a proposal he couldn't fathom.

He had been so confident she would accept him because every girl he ever met would have accepted him whether they were in love or not. But she wasn't like any other girl, and proved it time and time again. How could he believe she would act like them? The irony was that he truly wanted to have her with him, to be by his side, to share his life. His regard for her was such that no other girl compared to her in his esteem.

But it wasn't love. He knew that because he remembered what love felt like, and how it's loss had betrayed him. No, he could never love her, not truly love her. But perhaps she could love him enough to accept him without his loving her in return. He sighed.

That sounded even more mercenary than any girl scheming for his money, he thought. But that would be the only way she would be by his side. He realized that he would never ask her again to do that. It would never be fair to her, and he didn't want her to be unhappy. She deserved to be in a marriage of love.

He was doomed to see her in his mind and in his dreams, but never be with her. He didn't love her, but he wanted her with him. He couldn't reconcile his feelings, and had constantly struggled with them all these months. He had hoped the solitude of the ride to Pemberley would ease his mind somewhat before his having to socialize with the party that was due there, but his struggles weighed on him still.

Sampson had sensed his master's unease and galloped hard to help ease the tension with exercise. Darcy was grateful for his old horse's abilities, and dismounted behind the house near the stables close to the back pond where Sampson could get a cool drink.

An alert stable boy saw that the master had arrived and went out to greet him, and take his horse back to the stables for a rub down and some oats. Darcy patted the great horse's head, which in turn put its head over Darcy's shoulder. Darcy patted his horse's cheek affectionately, and gave the reins to the boy. With a rub to the boy's head as well Darcy seemed in better spirits.

"Good lad, thank you, Griffin." Darcy removed his hat trying to pat off some of the road dust as he started to walk up the knoll toward the house.

He removed his gloves and jacket folding it across his arm. He unbuttoned his vest to cool himself from the heat of the ride and the warm weather. He stopped as he glanced at the pond, and tried to decide if a refreshing dip would cool him off much better.

He untied his neckwear, and removed his vest folding both atop his jacket. He sat down beside the restful water leaning back on his arms trying to remember the last time he had swum in this pond. It must have been before everything changed with her death.

He sighed and wondered if this place would ever be that happy again. He closed his eyes and turned his face up to feel the warmth of the summer sun upon it. With the right person I know it could be merry again, he thought.

He heard children giggling as they ran through the bushes beside him. He sighed and listened to them laughing gaily without a care in the world and wondered whose children they could be. He opened his eyes looking for them, but they were not there, and the laughing was gone now. He blinked his eyes thinking he had been dreaming, and sighed as he gathered up his clothing as he rose.

His cravat had somehow gotten too near the waters edge and was soaked. He wrung it out and cooled his face and neck with the wet tie, and turned toward the house. The coolness did more to refresh him than anything he had done lately. He felt more at ease as he pulled some of his shirt up to dry his face.

Elizabeth, in the meantime, along with her relatives had been escorted out into the back grounds by way of the kitchen door to walk among the gardens out there. They made their way further to the herb gardens near the back pond and the stables. Being out of doors made her feel a little better as she tried to focus on the wonderful smells coming from some of the herb bushes she passed as she pinched the leaves to release the aromas.

Elizabeth was just remarking to her relatives a little ways away of the unique flow of the paths when she heard a rustling in the branches of a nearby tree.

She turned to come face to face with a startled Darcy who was half dressed and face and chest soaked. Both of them stood staring at each other unable to speak.

Her face paled, her mouth open in disbelief, and the ribbons of her bonnet blowing gently in the breeze the only movement.

She thought, how could this be? This is my worst nightmare come true.

"Miss Bennet," he responded finally remembering how to talk. God, he thought, she is so beautiful.

There was another pause, as he couldn't form words. Finally he remembered a phrase.

"Your parents, are they in good health?" That was stupid, he thought.

"W-What?" she responded, still embarrassed and beginning to breathe in short little puffs. She looked away, wanting to run, but her feet were frozen. She thought, Oh, what must he think of me?

"And your sisters, they are all in good health?" Think of something else to say, thought Darcy.

"Ahem ... yes," she managed to whisper. He must think me mercenary coming here?

"Have you been in the region long?" Better, he thought.

"A ... two days, sir." She tried to strengthen her voice while thinking how awful she felt about being caught intruding.

"And where are you staying?" Yes, he thought. Keep her talking.

"Lambton?" Surely, he knows where that is, she thought still panting from embarrassment, looking anywhere but at him.

"Oh, yes. Of course." Now what can I say? He thought.

Here silence again came upon them. Darcy started afresh.

"And your parents are in good health?" Hadn't I just asked that? Darcy thought.

"Yes," panted Elizabeth, closing her eyes. She thought, why can't the ground just swallow me up right now?

After another awkward pause as she stood frozen, panting, lacking the courage to open her eyes when she felt him beside her.

He touched her arm, and she heard his voice.

"Breathe, Elizabeth," he whispered. She swallowed, and took a deep breath, and tried to calm herself, looking at the ground before her.

It was then he realized he was getting the rest of his clothes wet.

"If you will excuse me," he said as he turned to the house, adding softly, "Do not leave." She couldn't raise her eyes. She could only nod.

He walked quickly toward the house. He thought, hurry and get dressed, and then maybe you can think of something to keep her here.

Her aunt and uncle came upon her watching the departing figure.

"Was that Mr. Darcy?" Asked her uncle.

She nodded unable to trust her voice just now.

Her aunt smiled and said, "He seemed quite agreeable."

"We should never have come here," Elizabeth finally said softly, her eyes misting over in embarrassed tears. As her legs finally obeyed her mind, she turned and walked across the grounds and toward the carriage followed closely by her confused relatives.

"What is wrong, Lizzy?" Her aunt asked as they tried to get their niece to answer them. She was too embarrassed to reply. All she could think about was how fast she could get away.

Chapter 34

Posted on Thursday, 16 January 2003

They had not yet reached the carriage when Darcy hurriedly approached them again now in a dry change of clothes, running a hand through his still tousled hair. He had also acquired a more calm expression than when he had been startled by Elizabeth's sudden appearance. His smile faded when he surmised where the party was intending.

"Y-You are not leaving?" he blurted out. He thought, I can't let her leave now that she is come, not yet.

She couldn't even look at him, she felt so mortified as she rushed her explanation. "We did not think you would be home when we made plans to walk the grounds. W- We would have never come if we knew, never intruded on your privacy." What must he think of me? She thought blushing.

"And Pemberley? Is it not all that I told you? Do you not approve?" Please say yes, he thought.

"Yes, indeed. You did not praise it enough," she gushed thankful for a change of topics.

"I knew you would appreciate it as I do." His eyes locked onto hers, and he smiled. His whole face lit up. She finally realized that he was not at all upset that she was here, and she finally slowed her panting and began breathing normally again.

"Thank you," she replied.

He is being so kind and nice, like those times when we were alone in conversation, she thought. But they were not alone. He was different somehow.

He brought her out of her reverie with his request, "May I know who brought you?" And brought you back to me, he thought.

"Yes, of course," she replied.

Elizabeth walked over to her family and said, "Mr. Darcy, may I present my aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. My sister Jane stayed at their house on Gracechurch Street when she was lately in London." She noticed that he didn't even react to the fact that these were mere trade folk who lived in a poorer part of London than those of his circle.

"It is nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. I hope your stay in Derbyshire will be a pleasant one."

"We are very happy to meet you, sir," replied Mrs. Gardiner amazed at how charming this young man was, and very handsome in dry clothes. She added, "I grew up in Derbyshire as a girl, and feel it is the best of places."

"Oh? Where did you live?" asked Darcy acting truly interested.

"In Lambton," she replied.

"Ah. I often go there to the smithy. My trainer would have the farrier there shoe our horses in spring."

"The one at the end of the lane," interrupted Mrs. Gardiner.

"The very one," replied Darcy. He noticed the elder gentleman gazing out at the lake.

"Mr. Gardiner, do you like to fish?"

"Yes, I do when I get the chance." Mr. Gardiner took an instant liking to anyone who could talk of fishing. This young man does not seem at all proud, merely stately in his air, which to Mr. Gardiner's estimation was to be expected.

"While you are in the area you may come and fish in the trout pond or there is carp and pike in the streams. I can furnish you with tackle and reel, and show you the best spots. Here let me show you now."

With that the two men were off to the edge of the drive where Darcy pointed to spot along the stream. Elizabeth and her aunt walked slowly behind both stunned by the warm greeting of a man that was known to be so aloof and distant.

"There is no improper pride in him all, Lizzy. He is just as his housekeeper said."

"Yes," replied Elizabeth remembering him like this when she was alone with him, but now he was with a group of strangers and still acting relaxed. "I can't explain his ease."

"Can you not?" she asked sensing her niece's presence must have something to do with his behavior even if Elizabeth could not see it. He is acting much like a man in love.

After her aunt joined her husband beside the drive, he held her arm gently on his. He excitedly pointed out to her the best spots for fishing while looked at her husband lovingly.

Elizabeth and Darcy took a leisurely walk about the back lawn where she again apologized for invading his privacy. "Please, do no distress yourself. I rode on without informing anyone."

He said he wanted her to meet his sister who was coming with the entire party that included Bingley and his sisters. Elizabeth was pleased that he wanted to have his sister make her acquaintance, but wasn't so sure she wanted to renew the acquaintance with the Bingley's.

"And unlike my Aunt, I am able to furnish you with tack and saddle for any lessons you may wish to have while you are here. My sister enjoys riding as well and will certainly give you much more insight that must elude those of us who do not ride side saddle." He smiled at her before he looked ahead again.

She looked at him to see if he were serious or just being polite. She looked down the path and smiled saying, "I...do not think I would be comfortable on any other mount than your very perceptive one, sir." He couldn't help but smile back and sigh.

"Then you are in luck, Elizabeth, for Sampson is resting in the stables as we speak after bringing me to Pemberley." He smiled as he thought of how the horse had galloped so hard even when Darcy had tried to slow his pace, and wondered if perhaps Sampson was even more perceptive than he'd ever realized.

"Well?" he asked waiting for an answer. She smiled up at him as they strolled down the path leisurely. She could think of no greater pleasure than being on that wonderful horse in such warm company.

"If there is time, I am sure I would be appreciative of any pointer your sister may have. Thank you."

He walked them back towards where the carriage awaited them. The still docile horse raised his head now, and became alert. He stared at the lady with the gentleman beside her.

His whinny drew their attention to him. Darcy started towards him, and the driver held the reins and stroked the horse's neck hoping to keep him quiet.

"She charmed him, sir," he blurted out as Darcy and Elizabeth approached.

"Indeed? How so?" Darcy smiled as he glanced from Elizabeth's lovely now blushing face to the young man who seemed honored to have met a real live horse charmer.

"The horse has been skittish ever since I got him, but I can calm him most times," the young man began.

"And you are?" asked Darcy who liked to have a name with a face.

"My name's Bobby Leeds, sir, and I have a tour business here a bouts. Anyway, sir, the horse was whinnying and I could tell he was scared, and warned her to step away and then she...she.... just talked to him and he calmed right down."

Darcy had no doubt that Elizabeth must have had that talent all along. He had seen her charm his own mount that day she had overcome her fear.

He heard the man saying, "Yep, she just told him everything was all right and told him he was safe, and he calmed right down."

Darcy's sudden look of surprise that his techniques were now being used on a horse amazed even him. As he glanced at Elizabeth she smiled and her eyebrows arched.

"And what else did she say?" Darcy asked, but kept his eyes on Elizabeth.

The young man thought back before replying.

"She just held her hand up to him like this," mimicking her gesture forcing Darcy to look from her to the young man's hand. That looks familiar, he thought.

Darcy was fascinated. "And that is all?"

"Yep."

"And what happened?"

Her uncle wanted to be included in the story, so he blurted out. "Why, he rubbed his nose on her glove just like a dog would, you know, as if he recognized his master's scent."

"He smelled her glove? And then he rubbed his nose on it?" asked Darcy.

"Yep," acknowledged Bobby. "And then he gave out this soft like whinny. If he was a cat, I'd say he was purring, sir. In all my years with him I never heard him make such a happy kind of sound."

Darcy looked to Elizabeth and then to her gloves, and then at the horse, then looked back at her again before he began to smile.

"Elizabeth, are these the same gloves you had when you charmed Sampson?"

Mrs. Gardiner touched her husband's arm at Darcy's use of their niece's Christian name like they were closer than mere acquaintances. When Elizabeth took no notice of the difference in address, her aunt and uncle exchanged glances and realized they needed to ask her for an explanation.

"Yes," she answered back. "I wanted to have them cleaned before my trip, but had not the time."

"I am grateful that you did not. You may have solved one of the Pemberley mysteries. May I have them for a moment?"

He even helped her pull them off her hands, neither of them even thinking how intimate this kind of gesture would seem to her relations. Both were too focused on solving this mystery of his as he gazed at the gloves while she stared at him mystified.

Darcy was still staring from the gloves to the horse. It couldn't be him, he thought. That was so long ago. Surely he couldn't remember the scent after all these years.

Chapter 35

Posted on Saturday, 18 January 2003

Everyone looked at Darcy with questioning expressions. He asked Bobby, "What is the history of this horse?" He held the gloves up to the horse's nose and the animal sniffed them and began to rub them again. Then there came a soft low sound of contentment coming from the horse. Darcy then began examining the animal in more detail.

"Well, I got him from a man in London who said he was going to have him put down since he was a no good horse that don't behave. I knew I could tame him down to do light carriage pulling. I figure I saved his life. He's always been skittish, but I managed to keep him calm most times with my Bessie girl here." Bobby patted the other horse beside them.

"William, what is this all about?" asked Elizabeth. Mr. And Mrs. Gardiner looked disapprovingly at each other and realized they definitely needed to talk with their niece as soon as may be.

"I know it seems impossible, but I think this is Sampson's brother. About ten years ago one of our prize horses was stolen. We never found out who was responsible or ever recovered the horse. I remember that their builds had been similar. Observe, Elizabeth. Except for slight difference in coloring, he has the exact outline as Sampson. His face is the same, and notice the way his mane breaks in the same spot about his neck which was a trait in the sire's line."

As Darcy gently inspected other parts of the horse looking for the identifying marks on his haunches and inside its lip, checking his hooves and teeth to try to determine its age, the now docile horse put up with all the handling without complaint. Elizabeth stepped back to look at the horse as well. She did notice the resemblance to Darcy's horse. Could it be?

"They were both about one when we started their training. Twins being an oddity for horses, I recall that they were inseparable as colts."

"I still don't understand, sir," asked Bobby.

"When I rode my horse to Hertfordshire last autumn," Darcy explained. "Miss Bennett petted him with these gloves. Now your horse recognizes the scent of my horse on her gloves."

Mrs. Gardiner spoke up. "Last autumn? When you and she met last autumn? And she petted your horse then?"

"Yes," said Darcy smiling at Elizabeth. "She bewitched him, just like she did this one."

Her aunt and uncle looked at her with worried expressions thinking that there must have been a more intimate relationship going on that anyone knew about. They were certainly going to have that talk with their niece.

"Sir, I still don't see how a horse could remember. It was so long ago." Bobby was asking. "Do you really think he is yours, sir?"

Darcy turned back to the young man now. "This brand has similarities to ours, and may have been altered to disguise it. Until I search my father's papers to see if there were any other identifying marks such as a tattoo, notches and such there is only one way to find out."

"How's that, sir?"

"Unhitch him, and bring him to the stable. Sampson is there now. He will recognized him. Then you will hear that same sound from him. Come," Darcy commanded.

"Just to ease your mind, sir," replied Bobby unhitching the horse from the chaise, and following Darcy down to the stables.

Elizabeth started to follow when a gentle arm slowed her pace.

"Lizzy, you need to explain to us about last autumn," her uncle whispered. He looked very worried as she stared into both their faces, knowing how strict they were with her and all her sisters.

She remembered the truly innocent nature of Darcy's prolonged embrace to aid her in conquering her fear on the path that day with Sampson, and realized how it would have looked to any one observing them. But not to have been detected due to the earliness of the hour, and only now to have her relations suspect some impropriety made Elizabeth so uneasy that she felt she had to omit certain facts regarding the incident.

"It was nothing, truly," Elizabeth said finally, hoping they would trust her enough not to inquire further, but they felt compelled to know the extent of her involvement with this man.

"My dear," her aunt began gently. "I see a man calling you by your Christian name and you answering him likewise. I know of few reasons for this save that you two are on more intimate terms than propriety allows."

"Oh, aunt, please. He helped me overcome my fear of horses. That is all. Since then have we have become what you would consider as trusted 'friends'. But that is the extent of it. Beyond that, he is a gentleman above reproach."

"Truly?" This didn't completely ease her aunt's concerns. She knew her niece didn't always tell her all that she was going through and worried that she would get herself in an predicament one day by being too familiar with Mr. Darcy.

Elizabeth continued by saying, "I have a great regard for him, Aunt. But there is some unseen barrier he puts about him that keeps him from allowing anyone too close. I have seen it in his eyes when he thinks no one observing him. I am quite safe, aunt. You can depend on that."

Her uncle responded. "You must warn him not to address you so in such a familiar way in public, Lizzy. It's not proper."

"Very well. I will tell him to ease your mind."

"He seems quite taken with you, Lizzy." Her aunt replied smiling.

"As I said we are merely friends, Aunt." Elizabeth reaffirmed as she looked away and swallowed. She knew now she could never tell them of his proposal at Kent. It would only make them uneasy. Besides, it seems to be settled now, and she could accept Darcy as merely her friend once more.

"Yes? Then tell your friend of our concerns, Lizzy."

"I will, aunt. I promise." She hugged her aunt and smiled at her caring relatives who were always looking out for her welfare.

"Now, shall we remove ourselves to the stables to see if some remarkable occurrence has taken place?" Asked her uncle hopefully. He would truly enjoy seeing the other horse that Lizzy had charmed.

"Lizzy?" asked her aunt still concerned about Lizzy's lifelong fear.

"I am fine with it, aunt. That fear no longer has any power over me."

Uncle Gardiner gave them his arms to lend them support, and together they walked the short distance behind the house to the stable. There was considerable excitement and noise.

Sampson had gotten a scent of his brother even before he was brought into the stable area, and let out a loud whinny. This was responded to in kind by Bobby's horse, and was difficult to control.

"Steady, old fella," Bobby said in a soothing voice. "We gonna get you back where you belong soon enough." He had realized at once that there was a connection between the two horses.

Bobby brought the big horse into the barn and into a stall next to Sampson, and noticed the resemblance right away. The two great beasts touched noses, and sniffed each other's faces, snorting and whinnying softly. Finally happy to be reunited, they put their heads over each other's back in a kind of horse hug.

Elizabeth and her family came up just in time to see the horses hugging. Darcy noticed she had come, and put his hand out to take hold of hers while looking at the two now united brother horses. The sensation of the warmth of her hand in his rekindled that feeling in Elizabeth that she briefly felt when their hands touched when he handed her his letter. However, it was so confusing to think about just then, and so she tried to distract herself with the two horses.

"It's a miracle," he said happily kissing her hand and keeping it in his while they both looked at the horses. He was unaware that the Gardiner's had noticed how familiar Mr. Darcy was with their niece.

"I guess you have your horse back again, sir," Bobby Leeds told Darcy wondering how he was to stay in business with only one horse. He didn't have enough money saved to buy another.

"There was a substantial reward offered for him when he was first lost, Mr. Leeds," Darcy said without looking at him but sensing the young man's dilemma.

"Yes, sir, but that was when he was young. He must be all of ten now and not worth anything near that."

"You have trained him to pull a carriage, and have kept him safe all these years," replied Darcy. "Now you have brought him back to his home. I think that merits something. I promise you will be amply recompensed for your trouble."

"Does that mean you will pay me for him, sir? Your own horse?"

"Yes, Mr. Leeds," said Darcy smiling. "You have earned the reward."

Darcy glanced at Elizabeth next to him and thought, you will never know how much I appreciate what else you have brought back to me, Mr. Leeds.

Darcy looked around at all these strangers, but didn't seem ill at ease. Perhaps Elizabeth's 'charming' is working on me as well. He smiled at her saying, "Well, it seems you have found me another horse to ride."

Elizabeth just smiled back at him and shook her head in wonder. She tried to just be happy and watch the now contented horses, and ignore that nagging feeling of her heart fluttering.

After making sure the stable hands had taken care of the horses Darcy suggested, "I took the liberty of asking Mrs. Reynolds to have refreshments prepared when we returned to the house." Everyone agreed to this.

Darcy asked them, but was looking at Elizabeth, "Did Mrs. Reynolds show you the music room? It is a special favorite of my sister, you know."

"Yes," Elizabeth replied walking with an easy gait, hands behind her back, as was her fashion. Darcy walked beside her, content now just to be near her, to have her accept him on friendlier terms than when they last parted. She added, "Mrs. Reynolds gave us a very extensive tour including the gallery. She seemed pleased at all our inquiries."

Darcy glanced at her with knitted brows wondering what ideas she had about art since he couldn't' recall if the subject had ever come up in any of their conversations, and made a mental note to ask her when he had the chance.

Coming back to the present he said, "Well, then, perhaps you would like to scan the library shelves. I am sure you can find a book or two to peak your interest while I settle my affairs with Mr. Leeds here."

All the rest fell in behind Elizabeth and Darcy strolling back toward the house, and to tea. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were still concerned about the prodigious interest Mr. Darcy was giving their niece.

It was apparent from their talk with her that Elizabeth accepted his attention merely as that of a friend and nothing more or she was keeping any feelings she had well in check. But it was most perplexing to the Gardiners. Mr. Darcy's attentions were so intimate that they knew he must feel more deeply than mere friendship. With a shared look between them which said, 'time will tell', they followed the couple into the parlor.

Chapter 36

Posted on Tuesday, 21 January 2003

After a lovely afternoon at Pemberley, Elizabeth and her relatives were returned back to the Lambton Inn inside one of Darcy's carriages. Bobby Leeds followed in his chaise because his horse Bessie was not strong enough to pull the load of four humans. As promised Darcy had been quite generous in rewarding Bobby Leads for the return of his horse, so Bobby was confident that he could find another horse for his tour business.

Darcy had repeated his desire to have his sister meet Elizabeth, and had set up a time for him to bring her by the Inn the afternoon of her arrival. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were greatly effected by the fact that they, as mere trades people would have the honor of being included in the circle of friends of the Darcy's, and looked forward to the meeting as well.

It so happened, however, that when the Darcys arrived for the visit, Elizabeth was the only one ready to greet them. She had just entered the parlor and came immediately to the young girl standing beside Darcy by the fireplace. She was a tall blonde girl with a still girlish figure, and soft eyes much like the color of Jane's. Elizabeth smiled at her as Darcy made the introductions.

"Miss Bennett, may I present my sister, Georgiana."

Miss Darcy curtsied along with Elizabeth, but the girl's downcast eyes told Elizabeth just how shy this girl was. Elizabeth knew that that trait must indeed run in the Darcy family. And she tried to put her at ease with a warm smile.

"I am very happy to meet you. I have heard so much about you."

"And I about you," the young girl responded.

"I understand you are fond of music and play very well."

"Not play very well, but-but I am very fond of music. William has told me you also play and sing."

"Your brother must have also told you that because I refuse to practice diligently, I play very ill indeed."

"Oh, that cannot be," the girl seemed confused at hearing this. Elizabeth looked at her in alarm. "My brother always tells the absolute truth, and has told me he has rarely heard anything that gave him more pleasure."

Elizabeth almost laughed as she looked at Darcy in disbelief that he would compliment her to his sister in such a glowing way. When she looked to him for an explanation, his cheeks began to blush and the start of a smile crossed his lips. She thought, why would he tell his sister that of me?

Miss Darcy was saying, "I hope we shall all hear you sing, Miss Bennett."

Brought back to the conversation Elizabeth looked at the young girl and smiled. "If you insist, then you shall indeed."

Just then they heard someone walk in. Elizabeth looked up expecting to see her aunt or uncle, but was pleasantly surprised to see Mr. Bingley walk through the door.

He strode up to her and bowed. "Miss Bennett, it is good to see you again."

Elizabeth curtseyed and smiled at him, and glanced curiously to Darcy who only shrugged.

Mr. Bingley explained his presence with, "Darcy informed me of his visit and I insisted on accompanying him. I am delighted to see you. It has been too long."

"Yes, it has been many months," agreed Elizabeth as she watched Miss Darcy and Mr. Bingley for any partiality, but saw none by either party.

"It has been eight months exactly," corrected Bingley. "I have not seen you since we were dancing at Netherfield."

"I think you are right," agreed Elizabeth.

"I don't remember a happier time than when we were dancing there." Mr. Bingley was brought out of his reverie with a sudden thought. "Miss Bennett, are all your sisters still at Longbourn?"

"All but one, sir," Elizabeth replied. When she saw his face droop she quickly added, "My youngest is away to Brighton for the summer."

"Ah," was Bingley's happy response. Jane was still there at Longbourn. He smiled, and whispered, "I had a wonderful Christmas. I hope you did likewise."

"Yes, Mr. Bingley. We did," she said at first not realizing what he meant. He patted his breast pocket and smiled at her.

"I realize," he added, "that probably others likewise had wonderful Christmas's too." He smiled at her.

Her face showed her final understanding of what he was referring to, and she stared into his eyes and smiled at their shared secret that he had indeed gotten her note and the gift. And she began to say something further to him about his statement.

But before she could, a noise in the hallway assured Elizabeth that her aunt and uncle had finally arrived. She ushered them in, and introduced them to Miss Darcy as well as Mr. Bingley.

"How do you do," Miss Darcy whispered feeling uneasy with the added people.

Mrs. Gardiner put her at ease with her warm smile saying, "It is so good to meet you, my dear. You look so much like your beautiful mother."

"You knew my mother?" asked Miss Darcy sudden curiosity taking over her shyness.

"I never met her personally, Miss Darcy, but when we lived in Lambton, she was frequently in the shops, and I saw her often. You look just like her."

"Thank you," the girl gushed happy to be complimented in such a wonderful way. These comfortable people lessened her shyness.

"When my wife and I were still abiding here," added Mr. Gardiner. "We would often see your parents in their open carriage about the village. They seemed to have great joy about them." His bushy brows raised and lowered and made Miss Darcy smile at this antic.

Elizabeth smiled knowing that her uncle's warm temperament could make even the most frightened child feel safe.

"Miss Bennett," interrupted Miss Darcy shyly. "My b-brother and I would be honored if you and your aunt and uncle could join us for dinner at Pemberley." She took a deep breath thankful that she got out the entire sentence. She added, "W-Would tomorrow evening be convenient?"

Elizabeth looked to Darcy who admittedly was surprised by his sister's impromptu invitation, but Elizabeth could tell by his smile and hopeful expression that he was delighted to have the company.

"I thank you. Yes, tomorrow would be lovely." Elizabeth glanced at her relatives who nodded, and added. "We have no fixed engagements."

And so a delightful evening of entertainment was had at Pemberley. Even Mr. Hurst did his best not to imbibe too much and stayed awake for a change. Both Caroline and her sister played the piano. Elizabeth was requested to play and sing much to the delight of most of those present. Even Miss Darcy was prevailed upon to play her harp that she had been learning to play for a while, but she felt very scared to be in front of all these people.

"Do you think you could play if I accompanied you on the piano?" Offered Elizabeth. Still Georgiana was reluctant. Elizabeth smiled and whispered to the frightened girl.

"Close your eyes and pretend there is no one but you in the room."

Georgiana opened her mouth to protest, but Elizabeth said softly, "If you do no see them, then you will not be frightened. And I will be right here beside you. I will not leave you. I promise. Trust me."

Their eyes locked on each other's, and some unseen message passed between them. Georgiana nodded and placed her hands in position on the harp, and she closed her eyes. When the piano began to play she joined in, and filled the entire room with such beautiful music everyone was so mesmerized that no one spoke. Elizabeth's warm encouragements seem to have brought out bravery in the young girl, which also warmed the heart of another person in the room. The corners of Darcy's mouth formed a smile and his eyes formed tears as he witnessed the change in his sister. Truly, Elizabeth 'charming' worked on Georgiana as well. He thought that he just might have found the one thing he needed to finally come to grips with his own dilemma still plaguing him. As he gazed at Elizabeth, she picked just that moment to look up from the piano, and their eyes met, and she smiled at him.

As the evening came to a pleasant close, Darcy and Bingley as well as Georgiana walked their visitors down the hall to the entryway and waited for the carriage to be ready. Darcy's two favorite dogs followed scampering beside them. Darcy couldn't help but notice Elizabeth's hand of its own accord drew one of the dogs to her. Her hand gently petted its ear as the dog stood motionless beside her, content with her ministrations. His second hound seemed just as content to 'lean' against her leg the way grey hounds do when they like the person. All the while she conversed with Bingley seemingly unaware of her charm on the animals. He smiled as he thought, clearly, she has even been accepted by my loyal hounds. I must find a way to keep her here somehow. As he handed Elizabeth and her family into his carriage it was agreed that they should come again the next evening, and even made plans to horseback ride the day following. He watched as the carriage disappeared through the gate. When he followed his dogs as they romped down the hallway of the gallery his steps seemed lighter and felt the change that had already begun due to her presence. He went passed the painting of himself beside the one of his parents. He looked from his countenance to theirs noticing the difference. He smiled, thinking of another portrait he would wish to hang there one day. Yes, he thought, now that she has seen Pemberley, maybe I can find a way to get her to stay. Happily he made plans to visit them in the morning.

Author's note: For all those wondering about the 'lean' of Darcy's dog, I can attest to its validity. I have a greyhound, and he does the same thing to us when petted. They are the most docile dogs imaginable. If you ever thought about adopting one, take my word for it, you will not be sorry.

Chapter 37

Posted on Saturday, 25 January 2003

Darcy had risen early and dressed with care before he left on horseback heading for the Lambton Inn. He was heading for what he thought was his destiny with Elizabeth. She was certainly more accessible to him now and welcomed his overtures of friendship. Maybe this time she would even agree to discuss his renewing his addresses to her. He spurred Sampson forward.

At the Inn Elizabeth and her relatives were finished breakfast and she had gone to her room to fetch her gloves and bonnet. As she pulled on her gloves she thought again about Darcy's behavior. He's the kind one here in Derbyshire, and perhaps the true Mr. Darcy. Everyone here who knows of him tells of his generosity and kindness. If that is so, then perhaps I could truly care for him. Maybe even-but I cannot think about it now. I will just have to wait and see if he continues his attentions. My aunt and uncle must wonder where I am. She hurried from her room and down to the lobby.

They were making ready to leave for a bit of sight seeing of the village when Hannah, the maid returned.

"Excuse me, Miss," she said with a curtsey. "The mail's just come." She handed Elizabeth two letters, and then smiled, curtsied again and exited the room.

"Thank you, Hannah," Elizabeth said preoccupied with reading the address on the front of the first letter. "At last. I was wondering why Jane had not written she-" then she added. "This one was misdirected at first. She addressed it very ill...."

Her aunt and uncle waited for her to come with them for the walking tour. She looked at them hopefully, and finally asked, "Would you mind the wait while I-"

"Of course, you want to read your letters," her aunt agreed knowing that a walking tour held less interest that a letter from home. She suggested, "Your uncle and I will walk toward the church and return in ... an hour."

Her husband nodded smiling. He started for the door and held it open for his wife. She smiled back at him lovingly.

"Thank you," gushed Elizabeth already starting to sit and pulling off her gloves as she opened the first letter.

As she began reading about Jane taking care of the Gardiner cousins, she smiled and opened the buttons of her jacket to keep from overheating in the warm room. She laughed at Jane's description of how their mother was too nervous for all the children's boundless energy and kept to her rooms upstairs. At least, thought Elizabeth, her father was getting some peace and quiet. But when she read that the boys had trespassed into his library to use his books to build a fort, she wasn't sure if even her father was so delighted to have such exuberant children running through his house. Oh, dear, she laughed. She paused in her reading, and closed her eyes imagining the stern face of her father. Certainly he was learning that boys were not the same as girls in their activities. She then opened her eyes, and playing with the cross on her necklace she continued to read.

As the letter continued, obviously written days later, it took on an ominous bent. It concerned Lydia who was still at Brighton, or so Elizabeth believed. But no, she was no longer there. She had eloped with an officer, with Wickham. Oh, no. This cannot be. As she read the upsetting words from Jane, she became more and more distraught. It seemed that the elopement plans were that they go to Scotland, and would soon return man and wife. Thus ended the first letter.

With shaking hands, Elizabeth tore open the seal of the second letter. She read the words she dreaded to read, that the marriage had not taken place, and that Colonial Forster had no assurance that a marriage was intended at all.

Dear God, thought Elizabeth beside herself with fear. The letter continued with pleas of her and the Gardiner's returning to Longbourn at once to help in the search.

Yes, Elizabeth thought rushing from the chair, the letters crumpled in her hand. She had to think as she made for the door. Where did they say they had gone?

Just as she had reached it, the door opened. She looked up hoping it was they returning, but her face showed an unhappy expression when she saw it was not they, but rather Mr. Darcy come to pay his respects. He bowed before he noticed her worried expression. The maid closed the door behind him.

"Miss Bennet, I-"

But she stopped him with, "I am sorry, I must find my aunt and uncle at once." She started to go passed him with tears streaming down her lovely cheeks.

Darcy saw her face full of fear and blocked her path and immediately asked, "What is the matter?"

When she was silent, her eyes downcast, he knew it was something private, but still wanted to assist her.

He then suggested, "Of course I won't detain you. But let me go find then, or have the maid send someone. Hello there!" He turned and opened the door calling to the maid who had just left. She was back in an instant with a worried look on her face.

He turned back to Elizabeth and touched her arm to get her attention. She looked up to the maid. "Hannah, could you send someone to find my aunt and uncle? They walked toward the church."

Hannah knew something was amiss and didn't hesitate. "At once, Miss," was her response as she hurried out the door closing it behind her.

Darcy's concern for Elizabeth was his focus now. She was still standing there crying quietly and looked like she was about to faint. He put his hand on her arm and guided her to a nearby chair, and sat in one next to it placing his hat and gloves on the table behind him. He wanted to take her in his arms to comfort her, but resisted and instead took her hand caressing it gently. He noticed how icy it felt in his. He waited for her to calm herself a bit.

"You are unwell, Elizabeth. Is there nothing I can get for you?"

"No, sir," she finally was able to speak. "I am well. I have just read some distressing news from Jane. I am so sorry." She began to cry again.

"No, no." He said wanting to relieve the distress at her not being able to stop her tears. He couldn't help himself this time, and gently pulled her to his chest in a soft embrace as they sat there.

"Elizabeth, cry all you wish," she heard his soft voice say to her. They sat in separate chairs in a gentle embrace. He tried not to think about how wonderful she felt against him, how his lips were so close to her bear neck, how he wanted to kiss her tears away. Please, he thought, give me strength to keep my reason, to be able to help her somehow. He felt her calming, and released her as she gained control of her tears, and she pulled away. He took hold of her hand again.

He waited for her to tell him what terrible news from Longbourn would cause her to break down so. He had visions of her father ill or some awful accident, but he waited patiently for her to tell him. Whatever it was, he would help her in any way possible. He knew he cared for her so very dearly now that like his friendship with Bingley, and he would do whatever need be to alleviate her distress.

Finally she took a deep breath, wiping away the tears with her already soaked handkerchief, and spoke while looking at the floor finally, deciding to trust him now to reveal her plight.

"Jane had been so desolate when Mr. Bingley left the neighborhood. I have never seen her thus." Elizabeth had to stop and take a few breaths to keep from crying again. "She would never say so, not admit it even to me, but I felt she had a great partiality for him."

She looked up into Darcy's eyes confirming what he had suspected caused her to cry that day in the grove. He could now see how all his interference had affected Elizabeth as well as her sister. Elizabeth looked down to the floor and continued. "My aunt and uncle and I thought that our cousins would be a great distraction for Jane since she loves them so dearly. We were sure she would come out of her despair with a prolonged exposure to the children's jovial natures. And it seemed so when she wrote warmly of their antics in her first letter. But her second letter told of such a terrible occurrence that we must return to Longbourn at once."

She paused before looking at Darcy again. "My youngest sister has left all her friends in Brighton, and eloped. She has run away to Scotland with Mr. Wickham." His face darkened at the mention of the name. They both stared at the desolate situation before them like a vile thing for they both knew what the man to be. Darcy had the added guilt of knowing that this was the result of his interference as well.

"But is it certain? It was he?"

"Yes, they were traced to London, but no further. Certainly not Scotland."

"And what has been done to retrieve her?" He tried to keep his voice steady as his anger rose.

"My father has gone to London with Colonel Foster to search for them."

She was on the verge of tears again as she added, "But even if they are found what is to be done? How is such a man to be worked on?"

Her final thought caused her tears to flow freely again. "I know nothing can be done. And now we must all partake in Lydia's downfall. We are all ruined." He reached in his pocket and pulled out his handkerchief and handed it to her to dry her tears. His hold on to her hand tightened.

Darcy watched as her face showed such despair that even he could not comfort her distress of the knowledge of her entire family's public disgrace.

He thought, how could he help her now? What was in his power to aid her? He wanted to hold her against him again, to feel her closeness as he tried to console her.

Just then, he heard doors opening, and looked up just as the Gardiners rushed into the room. He finally had to relinquish her hand as the Gardiners hurried over to her, still unaware of the gravity of Elizabeth's distress. A look passed from him to them to let them know he had been her comfort and not the cause of her distress. They seemed to know this and nodded.

Now that she was in their capable care he rose from the chair and bowed, and said, "I will leave you now."

As the door closed on his form, Elizabeth knew she would likely never see him again, and began to cry again while explaining the news of Jane's letters. Her despair was complete.

Chapter 38

Posted on Saturday, 25 January 2003

It wasn't a day after Elizabeth and her aunt and uncle's departure from Lambton that Darcy too headed away from Derbyshire. Having made their excuse of a family emergency that send them back to Hertfordshire with apologies to Georgiana that the plans for dinner and horseback riding had to be abandoned, Darcy began to pack for a trip to London. Although Bingley and his family were mildly curious by the sudden departure of the Gardiners, they were truly surprised by Darcy's likewise exodus of the area. He assured them that the matter in London was of an important nature, but hoped it would be cleared up as soon as may be.

He had his carriage take him to London at the fastest possible pace. If he knew Wickham, it wouldn't be long before he was off again in pursuit of other interests. It was imperative for Darcy to locate him, and he had only one clue as to how to do that. Mrs. Younge, who had once been the go between of Wickham, may have some idea to help in the discovery of the two elopers. Darcy knew she had a boarding house in a poorer section of London, and so he would begin his search there.

As his coach pulled into the livery, Darcy took a few deep breaths and decided to continue his search on foot. The search was slow being that there were many such boarding houses in the area. But after nearly a half days search, and with the aid of some of the locals, his servant at last was able to locate the boarding house of Mrs. Younge. She had such a look of surprise when her maid opened her door to him. After talking with her for nearly an hour, and offering a sum of money along with threatening to tell the authorities, she finally broke down and told Darcy at which inn the couple was abiding.

By this time it was very late in the day, and Darcy decided that he would wait until the morning to surprise the two when they least suspected they had been discovered. He had his carriage take him to his townhouse much to the surprise of his staff there.

"Mr. Darcy," the butler James said as he opened the door. "I wasn't aware that you had planned to come to town."

"It is all right, James. I had no time to send word ahead," replied Darcy removing his hat, and coat.

"Sir, Colonel Fitzwilliam is staying here for a few days. I thought you would not mind."

"That is quite all right, James. He is welcome anytime he is in town. Is he about now?"

"Yes, sir. He is in the parlor."

Darcy made for that room to inform Richard of what was going on, and enlist his aid if need be."

As he entered the parlor, he spied Richard warming himself by the fire, a glass of Darcy's port in his hand.

"I see you have made yourself at home, Fitzwilliam," said Darcy pouring himself a glass.

Richard turned around and smiled at his cousin, raising his glass in toast. "I did not think you would mind. General Mayfield had me in town on his behalf, and I must wait for a reply before I leave. I thought you were in the country. What brings you to town?"

Darcy fell into one of the chairs by the fireplace and sighed. He downed the entire glass of port and stared into the flames of the fire in silence. Richard knew the news was not good.

"It cannot be as bad as all that, Darcy," he said as he filled his cousin's glass again. Finally, Darcy looked up to Richard transmitting the fact that it was indeed bad news.

"Its Wickham."

"What has that blackheart done now?"

"He has left his regiment in Brighton, and taken a young girl with him under the guise of elopement," Darcy said drinking his port more slowly now.

"Elopement? Unless she is wealthy, I am sure he has no intentions in that regard," Richard sneered, then looked at Darcy's despondent face and knew there was more to the story.

Darcy looked up into Richard's eyes and replied, "It is Miss Bennet's younger sister he has taken with him this time."

A whistling sound came from Richard's lips. "That does paint a different picture. And I take it that the mission is to search them out, and make them marry to avoid scandal?"

Darcy only nodded pouring himself another glass of wine, and drinking it down. Richard asked, "But where to begin the search? Do you have any leads as to their whereabouts?"

"I have located the boarding house of Mrs. Younge and have already talked with her. She finally gave up the name of the inn where he is staying at for the moment. I plan to surprise them in the morning."

"Good, I will come with you. If we show a united front perhaps he would be more persuaded to agree to our terms."

"No," responded Darcy rising. "I would you rather go there tonight to make sure that he has not been apprised by Mrs. Younge of his discovery only to remove himself in the night. We would then have no clue as to his location."

"I agree," acknowledged Richard downing the last of his port. "I will head there now, and take a few of your men. If he tries to make a run for it, I will have someone inform you at once."

"Thank you, Richard," Darcy said, and he gave him the address of the inn.

Richard arrived there and was informed by the innkeeper that the couple was still in residence and that he may wait in the front parlor to keep watch. Richard found a chair in the corner and tried to get comfortable. It was going to be a long watch. As he sat he thought back to the summer before when Wickham had tried this same ploy on Georgiana. If it hadn't been for Darcy's unexpected visit to see his sister, we would have done this same thing with her having to marry the rogue.

He thought, thank God for Darcy's timing then. But as Richard sat he wondered why his cousin was getting them involved with Wickham this time. The girl was no relation to him, and clearly didn't mind being taken from her friends to go with Wickham. What was Darcy hiding, thought Richard. There must be something more to this. Darcy hadn't said where he had gotten his information of the identity of the girl Wickham had taken, but he had told him it was Miss Elizabeth's younger sister. Had Darcy met with Miss Elizabeth since that dreadful time at Rosings? Had they come to some understanding? Certainly his cousin's relationship to Miss Elizabeth had improved to the point that he felt honor bound to come to her aid.

Richard rearranged himself in the chair and stretched out his long frame to keep his muscles from cramping. He smiled reminiscing of Darcy smiling at her, and Elizabeth teasing him while she played at the piano. She was infinitely better suited for him than any girl Richard could ever remember Darcy being interested in. She brought out the boy in him, the boy that Richard remembered who laughed and played with him when they were growing up. She could make him happy, Richard thought.

He wishfully thought about his own regard for her and realized that she could make him happy as well, but her eyes only seemed to sparkle when she looked at Darcy. He sighed, and folded his arms across his chest to conserve his heat. Yes, he thought further. If only Darcy could come to some kind of understanding with her, perhaps then his cousin would be content. With that last thought he finally settled in for the long wait until dawn.

As the early morning light came through the front windows, Richard knew that at least the couple had not come out by the front door. Being a military man he knew that there were other ways to vacate a place, and had one of Darcy's servants stationed at the back alley throughout the night just in case Wickham tried to depart without paying the rent. At dawn the servant came into the parlor from the back area to inform him that no one had come by his way, so Richard was sure that the couple was still about upstairs.

Since Darcy did not know the area, one of his servants was able to cajole a local man to direct them to the correct street and inn. At dawn Darcy and his servant made haste to that location in case Wickham was in the process of leaving there too. He met Richard in the inn's front parlor, and was informed of the room number. The innkeeper assured him that the couple was still abiding there and owed him rent for the room.

"Thank you, Richard. I will take it from here."

"Darcy, I would rather we go together. Knowing your history with him, I am not sure you can keep your temper at bay."

"And you think you could? Georgiana is your charge too. Besides, I have met the young woman, and perhaps a familiar face would not frighten her as much."

"All right," agreed Richard reluctantly. "If you think you can negotiate without the use of weapons."

"I will endeavor to try," sneered Darcy leaving Richard in the parlor and heading up the stairs.

When Darcy knocked on the door, and Lydia opened it she was flabbergasted.

"Lord, what are you doing here?"

Darcy entered the room and closed the door, his eyes only on Wickham who had risen from his chair by the table. Finally Darcy's attentions were drawn to Lydia.

"I am come to take you back to your family. They are terribly worried about you." She had to look up to see his face, but was not at all intimidated by his height.

"You may tell them that I am fine, and have no wish to return."

"Are you two married?" asked Darcy hoping both a yes and a no. She was silent.

"You are not married then?"

"My dear Wickham and I are to be married...sometime...in the near future I am sure. And that is good enough for me."

"Indeed?" Darcy asked now facing Wickham knowing it had not been his intentions.

"Of course," replied Wickham finally folding his arms across his chest. "I have but to agree to the settlement." Wickham smiled.

Darcy knew exactly what Wickham was about, and knew also that it was only money, money that Darcy could spare for the sake of saving the Bennet family honor. After a pause he sighed and scowled at Wickham, and removed his hat and walked toward the table and chairs. "Well, let's get to it then."

Before he left, Darcy had Wickham promising to marry Lydia, and Darcy would pay him the amount they had agreed on. Lydia was to go to the Gardiner for the duration of the time before the wedding, which with the proper license could be arranged in a week. Darcy felt sure that even though Wickham didn't love Lydia, he wouldn't run out on such a large sum of money. At least Darcy knew Wickham well enough to know that. In the meantime, he met Richard downstairs and apprised him of all the developments.

"That was almost too easy," worried Richard. "How much did you offer?"

"Too much," was all Darcy would say as he continued to pen a note to be delivered by his servant to Mr. Gardiner as to where they could retrieve Lydia as well as an assurance that he and his cousin would meet Mr. Gardiner the next morning with all the particulars.

"Can your regiment do without you until this matter is settled? Plans are in place, but we both know how unpredictable Wickham's actions are when cornered," said Darcy as both of them made their way to Darcy's townhouse.

Richard replied, "I will go to Headquarters and check to see if the reply for General Mayfield is ready. Sometimes reports of this nature can take days to complete."

"Good, I may yet need your assistance," acknowledged Darcy.

"You will always have my support," responded Richard warmly as if Darcy were his brother. Their friendship was just as true.

News was sent to Longbourn, and elation reigned. Mr. Bennet was under the belief that his brother, Mr. Gardiner had paid for the entirety of the marriage, and felt extreme guilt. The rest of the family was relieved that so happy a circumstance was to take place to save their family honor.

Only Jane and Elizabeth and perhaps even Mary had misgivings about how the entire incident would affect any further chances of the rest of the daughters ever finding any gentlemen who would solicit for their hands. They felt that Lydia had still ruined them all.

Continued In Next Section