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Chapter 52

Author's Note: I am putting a PG-13 ahead of it to warn parents who wish to read it before hand.

About a week had passed after the Matlocks' arrival when Elizabeth returned from an early morning walk. It was a solitary one as Darcy had a meeting with his steward that could not be delayed. She used the time to re-read Jane's letters during the last few weeks. With much correspondence between Jane and Elizabeth it became evident that Netherfield was not the ideal place for the Bingley's to reside due to the constant visiting of Mrs. Bennett. Even with Mr. Bennett's hints for her to curtail her visits, Mrs. Bennett just couldn't seem to stay away, and so Bingley quietly made plans toward the purchase of another estate not as near to Longbourn.

Jane's letter from a few days prior stated that she and Charles were very much interested in touring the Smithson estate, and wished for her and William to accompany them to make certain that the place was as correctly described as in the correspondence from Mr. Smithson. Indeed, Elizabeth felt certain that the extended travel time with her entire family would be so taxing on Charles that upon his arrival he might wish to purchase the estate sight unseen.

Still, she wished to see all her family again, and hoped that her mother would be more sedate than usual with Lord and Lady Matlock remaining in residence at Pemberley. Elizabeth couldn't wait for Jane's arrival in order to talk with her again, as she had missed having her to confide her innermost thoughts to, and wanted to have all the news from Jane's perspective rather than mother's.

Having been told by Wilkins, the butler as she re-entered the house that Darcy was still in his meeting, and that the remainder of the household had yet to arise, Elizabeth removed herself upstairs directing her maid to have a bath drawn for her. Elizabeth had her maid help her disrobe, and aid her in the bathtub, luxuriating in the warm water up to her chest, leaning back, relaxing.

She was becoming quite fond of Darcy's uncle who seemed affectionate now that she had grown accustomed to his wry sense of humor so much like her father's. Their frequent chess matches proved him to be very adequate player of advanced ability, which always made a game exciting. And their frequent debates over various authors made Elizabeth realize how educated both he and his wife truly were, and she began to respect him as a man of integrity, honor and sense. And she hoped that the esteem and regard would continue even after he departed, with his being assured now that he was leaving Georgiana in the very capable hands of both her nephew and his young wife.

Lady Matlock was still somewhat aloof, having disagreed on many topics, but mostly, Elizabeth reasoned, by the way those of inferior rank viewed the new Mistress of Pemberley as more of an equal instead of one in the highest social circles and with more familiarity than Lady Matlock was accustomed to. Still, Elizabeth could see that the older lady respected many of the issues that Elizabeth expressed an interest in as noteworthy, and praised her in these endeavors to encourage their accomplishment by the men in the area. So, it was a start of a relationship that seemed to be thawing just as Pemberley was thawing out from winter.

"Ah," Elizabeth sighed, eyes closed, thinking that nothing could intrude upon this wondrous feeling of ease. She smiled as she thought back to just yesterday when she and William had walked down one of the paths on the grounds talking about the horses, and how she wished to take them out for a ride. That was when he said something unexpected, that riding would soon be out of the question. She had been about to ask why when on of the servants informed him that his steward had need of him at once in the study, and with a very tender kiss he left her in the path. And all through supper he had acted very subdued but not brooding, as though a pleasant thought occupied his mind. Then last night as they lay in bed, he seemed more gentle with her if that were possible, putting all thoughts out of her head including his remark of that of the horses. She reminded herself to ask him what he meant about it when she saw him later.

But just as Betty returned with the hot water kettle from the swing arm of the fireplace to warm her water, Elizabeth had a cramp, which meant that her 'courses' were upon her once more. Ever since they had begun during her teenage years, they were still very sporadic and unpredictable.

"Mistress?" Betty's unspoken question and look of concern were shooed away by Elizabeth's hand.

"Betty, it is just my-" she tried to say as another sharp pain took her breath away.

"Yes, Miss," was Betty's automatic response for such an occurrence, having older sisters who made her privy to it. But as she poured more hot water into the tub, she noticed how pale Elizabeth was becoming. Elizabeth's eyes were closed, but her knuckles were white where they clung to the tub gripped by another cramp. Finally, she panted as the pain abated for the moment.

"Oh, no," she whispered as a sudden thought crept into her head. When had she last had her 'courses'? Exactly how many weeks ago had it been?

"Oh, please, no," she whispered as tears filled her eyes.

"Mistress," Betty asked, getting nervous watching as Elizabeth's pain increase, knowing this was not a normal occurrence. "Please, allow me to go summon Mrs. Reynolds."

"Yes," whispered Elizabeth, barely able to do more as another pain commenced. "I will be all right until you return. Go."

But as Betty turned to leave, Elizabeth felt her fears begin to creep into her mind, and she began to pant at being alone. She whispered, "Hurry."

Betty flew out of the door and went into the nearest bedroom and rang the bell several times frantically. Mrs. Reynolds was not long in coming, and Betty tried to explain what was the matter as she hurried her into the bathroom. Mrs. Reynolds knelt beside the tub, noticed the bath water, and then Elizabeth's pale face. She touched Elizabeth's hand; Elizabeth opened her eyes to Mrs. Reynolds concerned face. Betty was wringing her hands in worry. Mrs. Reynolds instinctively knew Elizabeth wished for a private conversation, and turned to the maid with kindly eyes.

"Betty, go to the Mistress's rooms, and bring us some night clothes. Her "courses" are severe, and she will need to rest for the remainder of the day. Also ready some hot compresses for her to use. We will also be needing the items in the lowest drawer-"

"Yes, ma'am. I know what else to bring," the young maid curtsied and left the bathroom. Mrs. Reynolds then turned back to the frail figure so still in the tub, knowing what was happening, and trying to keep Elizabeth calm, wondering if the young mistress knew. Mrs. Reynolds asked the mundane, common sense questions.

"Mistress, are you plagued with a normally heavy flow during your courses?" She knew the answer when Elizabeth opened her eyes, and shook her head.

"I usually feel very uncomfortable on the first day, but it has never been anything such as this."

"And when was the last time they occurred?"

"The week prior to my wedding."

"Then should you not have had your courses begin several weeks ago unless..."

Elizabeth nodded as another contraction began, the worst one yet. Mrs. Reynolds gripped her arm for support, knowing that there was nothing to be done but let nature take its course, deciding to let it happen in the tub as in a bed. As the pain subsided, she again looked at Elizabeth, noting how much paler she was, and how she began to tremble from the exertion. A few minutes passed, and Mrs. Reynolds was wondering if she would need the 'ergot'*afterwards. Then she felt Elizabeth's grip on her arm slacken. There were no more contractions, and Mrs. Reynolds knew it was over except for the mourning. And Elizabeth began to cry almost uncontrollably as Mrs. Reynolds hugged her tightly. Just then Betty came back in the room with the nightclothes and other items, and noticed the two women, the darkened water, Elizabeth's crying, and she too knew. She stood silently hugging the items to her chest; her eyes glistening with unshed tears, awaiting Mrs. Reynolds' instructions.

"Shhhh, Mistress. Its over now." Mrs. Reynolds had gone through this with her own daughter several times, and knew what was needed. "Come, let's get you out of there and into bed. Betty, help me."

Betty was a good lass who did all she was ordered to without having to be told twice or making any comments, which made the ordeal much easier for Elizabeth. Having rinsed her, dried her, and gotten her dressed, they set her down in a chair until she felt steady enough to walk with their aid to her bedchambers. Just as they have gotten Elizabeth into bed, and closed the door, Darcy came looking for her. Mrs. Reynolds turned to Betty before she addressed Darcy.

"Betty, go to the tub before one of the man servants disposes of the bath water." Mrs. Reynolds gave the young maid an intense stare, and Betty instinctively knew what she was requesting, nodded and curtsied and left.

"Mrs. Reynolds? Is Elizabeth unwell?"

"She is...indisposed," Mrs. Reynolds finished, hoping that the master would need no further explanation. He stared at her intently for a good ten seconds, giving Mrs. Reynolds the uncomfortable impression that he was not privy to these 'facts of life'.

His mind, however, was otherwise engaged on another thought entirely as he stood before her wondering if he had been mistaken. It had been long ago after all. Finally when his eyes focused again onto Mrs. Reynolds staring at him, waiting for him to give her some indication of whether she would have to explain further, he merely cleared his throat and said, "Of course," he replied quickly somewhat uncomfortable talking of it.

Mrs. Reynolds continued. "Mrs. Darcy will need to rest for a some days, sir. I will take over her duties of the household accounts, and any other immediate decisions she had planned for as long as need be."

"I am sure she will appreciate all your efforts, Mrs. Reynolds. Is she awake or had you thought she needed a draft to help her rest?"

"She does not appear to require any sedative...for the moment, sir, and is resting as comfortably as can be expected...for now." She folded her arms and stood before him instead of excusing herself to go about her duties.

Darcy discerned something in the tone of her voice, and his eyes narrowed as he locked his gaze on her. She silently stared back at him, seemingly standing sentry before Elizabeth's door, guarding against his entry. He knew something was wrong, and he swallowed.

"I would see her," he panted, reaching for the knob, but pausing when he felt a gentle but firm hand on his arm. He looked from it to Mrs. Reynolds. Then she patted his arm and nodded to him, knowing from her own observations of the couple, that he would do his best to comfort his young wife.

Darcy entered the darkened room and lay down beside her form, snuggling against her, and placing his arms around her, kissing her temple tenderly. She turned into his embrace and cried against his chest, uncontrollably at first. He didn't even try to stop her tears, but merely held her until she finally quieted.

"I am so sorry," she whispered against him.

"Lizzy?"

"I thought..."

"What?" She swallowed.

"I thought...we had begun...I thought 'they' were to come at last...I thought...and then..."

Her tears renewed as he hugged her tightly. He inhaled when he realized to whom she was referring when she spoke of 'they', and he knew what had happened. His own eyes misted as he too began to mourn the life that was not to be. He kissed her cheek and held her tighter as no words were adequate for the loss they both felt so keenly just now.

He stayed with her holding her until she finally fell asleep, remaining with her all day, not wanting to leave her side. Mrs. Reynolds told everyone that both of them were unavailable with no further explanation. The staff knew something was amiss, and the house became as somber as those attending services. Some of the lightness had dimmed from the house for the next few days, as both the master and mistress were not seen in all that time. He stayed with her that night and all the next day, holding her next to him without a word, knowing that like his mother, Elizabeth needed his touch to help her through this, just as much as he needed hers to help him through.

Lord and Lady Matlock, who had been apprised of the developments, were less sure this was the correct approach, just as they had doubts about how he was bringing up his sister. On the morning of the third day they had a somber breakfast with Georgiana who had also been told.

"Perhaps it would be best if you go home with us until William and Elizabeth are more able to care for you," Lord Matlock began. But Georgiana had the benefit of Elizabeth's influence for a long enough time to begin to assert her own wishes to her relatives.

"No," she said softly but firmly. "My place right now is here with them. I will stay to give them support and caring." Lady Matlock looked up surprised at Georgiana's statement.

"This is a matter between a husband and wife. You would be of no use." But Georgiana took a deep breath and argued back.

"Mrs. Reynolds has apprised me of some of the duties that Lizzy has made for herself during the next week, and God has given me sense enough to know I will be able to handle them, so I mean to stay and help out anyway I can, Aunt. You may leave us ahead of your appointed time if you wish, and so not have the opportunity to meet with Lizzy's family. But do not suppose that I will be going with you and abandon William and Lizzy when they need us most."

Both her relatives stared agape at this until now so shy young girl, who was staring back to them in a determined manner. Finally Georgiana blinked.

"Now, as I need to keep up my strength, please pass me the eggs and biscuits, uncle." He handed them down without taking his eyes from her, noting that her hand shook when she took each plate from him. He smiled as he began thinking up a new list of adjectives to describe his suddenly forceful niece: determined, steady, resolute, reliable.

"I will write to my steward that we will also extend our stay and lend any assistance you require, niece," he said smiling at her. Lady Matlock raised her eyebrows, but remained silent.

"Thank you, uncle. I appreciate that," she whispered not looking up to him, having for the moment used up all her newly acquired courage.

When Darcy had yet to make an appearance by dinner time on the third day, Lady Matlock decided that this course of action had gone on long enough, and took matters into her own hands, and sought out Mrs. Reynolds.

"Is William still with Elizabeth?"

"Yes, Lady Matlock. Neither of them has stirred all this time."

"Take me to them," she commanded. Mrs. Reynolds raised her eyebrows as she turned to obey, leading her to Elizabeth's bedchambers.

"Have a tray sent up with some broth. I will see to it that they eat it," she ordered, and entered before Mrs. Reynolds could reply with a, "Yes, Lady Matlock."

She entered the now darkened room, and lit the candle on the desk and carried it over to the nightstand beside the bed. She sat in a chair next to it, and beheld the two at rest. Darcy was awake and staring at the ceiling as Elizabeth slept beside him. She could tell by the glistening trails down his cheeks reflected in the candlelight that he too had cried as he thought about his vision.

"William," she said simply.

"Why have you come?" He asked not wishing to listen.

"I will sit with her while you go out for a few moments respite."

"I will not leave her, aunt."

"She will not be alone, William. You need to get up...for just a few moments. I have had a tray sent up-"

"I am not hungry." She sighed.

"No, I realize that, but you must eat something if you are to be of any use to her." He was silent, at least thinking of the logic of her request, or was it an order?

In a more forceful tone she stated, "I would have you to get up, and leave this room, William. Go wash your face. Do whatever you need to do in those few minutes, and then return. I will not leave her, William. She will not be alone, I promise. Now go."

He was silent, and did not move for the longest time. Lady Matlock thought he was not going to even acknowledge her. But suddenly he moved without a word or sound. He walked right by her, and left the room, quietly closing the door. She sighed, and took Elizabeth's hand to let her know that someone was still with her.

Elizabeth awoke and turned her head asking, "William?"

"I sent him out for a few minutes, Elizabeth," she said simply. "He will back directly." She squeezed her hand. Elizabeth tried not to cry, but did finally wish to talk of it.

"It is so sad," she whispered, her voice quivering with renewed tears. Something broke through the tough shell in Lady Matlock's demeanor, and she softened as she squeezed Elizabeth's hand again.

"Yes," was her soft reply.

"I do not how to endure it, aunt."

"The pain will lessen in time, child."

"I can not see how."

"Time will help you heal, and you will try again."

"I will be too fearful that this will happen again." All her visions of a family seemed shattered just then as her tears were renewed.

"It is still too fresh in your mind right now, child. But trust me, you will get past this."

"How can you be so sure?" There was a pause before Lady Matlock spoke.

"I too know what you are feeling, child," she softly replied.

"You?"

"Three times before my eldest son, Henry was born," she answered back, her own tears flowing down her cheeks.

"I am so sorry for you, aunt," whispered Elizabeth trying to comfort the older lady who had already given herself time to grieve all those many years ago, and so the pain was not as acute, but feeling the loss for Elizabeth whose pain was still both physical as well as emotional.

"Thank you, my dear," she said sniffing back her tears, having cried long ago, but still able to grieve now. "You mustn't give up because of one set back. Promise me that you will not, Elizabeth."

"I promise," Elizabeth said, with a voice that to Lady Matlock seemed so frail, it reminded her of Anne's.

Lady Matlock rose from her chair and sat on the bed, and leaned over and kissed Elizabeth who sat up and hugged her aunt tightly as she began to cry again.

"There, there, my dear," she said softly as she rocked her niece gently for the longest time, sniffing back tears. Finally regaining some of her composure she said, "William will be back soon. I do not wish him to see me crying."

"Why?"

"Because he will think that I am a silly old woman."

"He will not. He will think of you as I do, kind, sweet, loving, and wonderful," whispered Elizabeth stifling back her own tears, feeling Lady Matlock's strength helping her calm.

As Lady Matlock felt the warmth radiate from Elizabeth's embrace, she began to understand the importance of the tactile relationship that William had with the people closest to him, his mother, his sister, and now his wife. It was something that she never understood until now about how Anne had raised William, and how he had in turn tried to raise Georgiana. Elizabeth had unconsciously been just as tactile in her own way, as her love touched a heart as surely as a hand touched a face. It was such a comfort to feel Elizabeth's gentle touch that brought ease even to her old pain of loss as it expressed itself in love of her as family. She in turn tried to comfort this young girl as she went through her first trial of married life. And at last she understood why William had chosen her. Their approach to life was identical.

"You are the most perfect girl for him, Elizabeth. William is very fortunate to have finally found you. I despaired at his ever finding anyone his equal, but now that you are come, he will be very happy."

"Oh, aunt. He has brought me such joy, my heart is so full." They hugged again, just as Darcy re-entered the room, having changed and washed his face, his hair still dripping about his forehead and his still unshaven cheeks. His concerned face softened as he noticed Elizabeth sitting up.

"How are you?" He asked her, gently sitting on the bed beside her, holding her hand.

She looked at him with eyes still wet with tears, but managed to say, "Better, I think, now that you are here."

"There is some broth. Would you like to try it? We can share."

"All right, William."

He rose from the bed to retrieve the tray from the other room, pausing long enough to gently touch his aunt's shoulder in a silent 'thank you' for whatever was said in his absence that brought Lizzy back to him. Lady Matlock smiled, felt his love flow into her through his touch, but kept her eyes on Elizabeth, whom she knew would grieve for some time to come, but at least was beginning to heal.

Kissing her forehead, Lady Matlock rose knowing that William was now able to properly attend to her care. So like his father, she thought, of the care he had shown Anne.

The evening of the occurrence Betty came to Mrs. Reynolds with something wrapped in a small towel. They silently exchanged looks, and then Betty gave her the item. The next morning Mrs. Reynolds quietly asked her husband to accompany her to the cemetery. Without need of any explanation, he walked the short distance carrying his trowel. He dug the hole where she asked, next to the wall of Darcy crypt that held the remains of Lady Anne. They buried the item wrapped in the towel, covering the soil gently over the top, and the two stood silently for many minutes, holding hands. Then she wiped her face, and both turned back to go down the path to the main house.

*Author's note: Ergot was a drug used back then to aid in stopping hemorrhaging after deliveries, and would be something Mrs. Reynolds would be aware of.

Chapter 53 - Recovering

Over the next days Darcy barely left Elizabeth's side. The doctor ordered bed rest, even though the physical pain had all but abated. Her grief was still with her, leaving her with no desire for company or diversion. Darcy was very gentle with her as she still cried herself to fitful sleep while he held her, caressed her, kissing her cheeks, trying to comfort her.

Mrs. Reynolds suggested that she take a draft to help her get a more restful sleep, but after one time Elizabeth refused more, citing such a terrible headache afterwards, and saying that she could sleep better on her own, and had Darcy intercede on her behalf in this regard. He himself so adverse to any form of laudanum agreed, but made her promise to eat something.

Her weight had dropped considerably during this time as had his own, neither of them eating more than a bite or two. But he was adamant that she needed to eat to get her strength back. The cook fixed them wonderful broths and stews to coax them into eating at least more than a mouth full.

The times while she lay there alone trying to work through all these feelings in between Darcy's frequent visiting, the weight of her sadness would fall upon her and she thought of the wonderful child that she had carried for so short a time, wondering what he would have looked like, what sort of personality he would have had, what kind of person he would have turned into. She began to cry all over again.

How she wished she could leave this room, be outside on the grounds of her now beloved Pemberley, to be in its embrace of natural beauty to help heal her wounded soul. Then one day she began to hear music coming from downstairs. Each morning she would hear strains from the piano drift up through the stairwell as Georgiana played for her after the breakfast hour. And somehow hearing the piano Elizabeth's spirit was lifted for a time. She especially favored Pachelbel's Canon to ease her mind. It put her in mind of birds in flight over the meadows and field of the grounds of Pemberley, so even while she couldn't walk its paths she could still envision them whenever she heard the song.

Georgiana also knew that Elizabeth preferred Mozart and so she played many of his Sonatas, especially # 6 the 2nd movement, the #9 the 3rd movement, as well as # 14 the 2nd movement for Elizabeth, which Georgiana played so beautifully. The doors being open, everyone else in the house heard and was impressed by the beauty of the music, noting the confidence and the feeling going into her playing. The fact that this shy young girl took it upon herself to overcome her fear to play hours for someone other than herself meant so much to Elizabeth. And gave her strength to know that like Georgiana, she could overcome her grief in time.

With such wonderful care she regained more of her spirit each day and began to feel more like herself in most ways. Lady Matlock came to visit again after a few days, and brought in some embroidery to sew, which Elizabeth tried to express an interest in, asking which stitch she preferred. Finding out that she and Lady Matlock had a partiality for the more sedate flowers in the garden such as violets and lavender, she related that her sister Jane also preferred the stitch of forget-me-nots that she was quite adept at, and used in most of her own embroidery. Lady Matlock offered to teach her another stitch, which was that of the country primrose. Although not as showy as a rose or iris stitch, it too had colors that ranged from the sedate purples to the more lively colors of pinks and yellow. Elizabeth said that she would like to learn this new stitch, and spent a few hours each afternoon in the lady's company, getting to know their family history. When he came in to visit, the earl would talk of when Darcy was a child and funny stories of him with his cousins to try to lift her spirits.

She tried to come out of her grief when they were with her, but when she was left alone a cloud would descent again on her heart that was almost unbearable. Darcy was her only salvation at those times, and would hold her to him while she clung to him, each silently knowing what the other was thinking.

By the time the weekend came, Elizabeth was quite ready to be allowed out of bed. And so early that Saturday with the aid of her maid, she got dressed and walked about the upper hallways, Darcy beside her, talking quietly. The dogs that normally bounded down the hallway sensed the mood and merely walked beside her, her hand on Rollo's back.

After the third time down the hallway, Darcy asked, "Are you tired, Lizzy? Do you wish to go back to your rooms to rest?"

He felt her hand tighten on his arm, and somehow knew that was not what she wanted at all. He could almost hear what her words would be, and smiled as she expressed them.

"I wish to go downstairs, William. I need to be out of doors, to be in the sun shine, to walk about the grounds, to-"

"I will walk you down now if you wish," he interrupted her requests. She looked up at her husband who could read her thoughts so clearly now, and smiled at him for the first time in a week. It gladdened his heart to see that smile again.

"Are any of the rest about downstairs?"

"No, it is too early yet even for my uncle, who is normally an early riser."

"Then, let us go back to my rooms for a while."

"If you wish."

They entered her rooms and he held her hands to help her sit on the couch by the fire, already stoked by the servant. Sitting beside her, she leaned against his chest as he pulled her into his embrace, and she looked into his face. Leaning down he captured her lips in gentle kisses. He sighed when he felt her responding to him, and his hand caressed her neck, his fingers tangling in her curls as he deepened the kiss. He knew it was too early yet go much beyond these liberties at present, but he was elated that she was now at least responding to his attentions. He missed their closeness as any husband misses his wife. He inhaled her lavender scent, and felt his own ardor begin to rise. But when he felt her swallow beneath the touch of his fingers, he knew she was approaching the time when she would pull away if he pressed her.

He licked his lips, and whispered, "Be well, Lizzy."

She sighed, wanting to give more but not able to just now, and whispered back, "I shall."

He took a deep breath before he said more.

"Soon," he whispered back kissing her again, and then leaning his forehead against hers as he sighed. He heart ached to see her so sad, his fondest wish was to have her whole once again.

Just then there was a knock at the door, and he laughed softly.

"I thought you might be well enough to desire breakfast. And so ordered a tray."

"I am not hungry."

"I know, but I wish for you to eat at least a few bites. You know how cook gets when you return his food." He smiled. She smiled back.

"Very well, just to keep 'cook' contented," she teased.

He kissed her cheek and rose to answer the door. He took the tray from the servant and placed it on the table by the window. When he returned to the couch to help Lizzy to the chair, he noticed her head leaning against its high side, eyes closed and her soft breathing. With a muffin topped with marmalade in one hand, he debated whether to carry her to her bed or wake her to eat. His smile broadened, as sat down beside her, and taking a bit of the marmalade of his finger, he bent his head down and began to kiss her again rousing her from her sleep. But when her lips parted he put the marmalade on his tongue and began kissing her again. Her eyes fluttered open at the sensation of his kisses and the tangy flavor of the jam in her mouth. He pulled back to see her surprised reaction. She swallowed, and then looked into his smiling face.

"I think," he said while licking his fingers, "that I can now truly say you taste delicious."

Then she laughed. It was the most wonderful sound he had heard, so like music that he had missed during this sad time, and he sighed because he now knew she was truly on the mend.

"Come," he said pulling her up and toward the table. "Cook has sent the entire jar of jam instead of a few dollops."

And they both sat down to eat their meal together, both actually hungry for the first time in a week. Darcy realized it a very good sign that things were getting better. Afterwards he left her in her rooms to rest for a while with the promise to later walk with her in garden before the lunchtime meal.

Darcy and Elizabeth renewed their habit of early morning walks along the paths around the grounds. Being out of doors in her wonderful park walking with her husband did more to lift her spirits than any other activity. They often stopped to sit on the benches placed all around the grounds where he shared with her little intimacies that she accepted and participated in, waiting for the time when it was right for them to begin again.

Even though he would not yet allow her to ride, they sometimes brought Sampson with them on their excursions along the paths around the grounds. The first time they did so, Sampson put his massive head over her shoulder in a horse hug wishing her well as any horse could. She patted his neck and fed him one of his favorite treats, a carrot, and they began their walk with him following close behind, content to be with his mistress knowing she would one day be well enough for him to carry her again.

By the end of the second week, Elizabeth was back to herself, and least most times. She played the piano again either playing duets with Georgiana, or accompanying Georgiana when she played on the harp. Then one day they heard her playing one of the pieces that Georgiana had played for her when she was ill. The difference in their style made the tone of the piece completely different, almost poignant to all those who listened.

Darcy had been in the middle of a conversation with Mrs. Reynolds when he stopped speaking and listened to piano, knowing it was Elizabeth playing, and he recognized something more, and he immediately excused himself and went into the music room. He sat down on the bench next to her until the piece ended, and she clung to him crying as he held her tenderly without regard to anything other than the fact that she needed him, and he was there for her.

Lady Matlock, who too had heard the emotion in her playing had also ventured toward the music room just as the piece ended, and saw how he held her in such a way that was inappropriate for public viewing. And his face showed no apology for his actions. She watched them as he held her long after she had quieted; his eyes closed, his face peaceful, content to have this contact, to have her in his arms. A soft lavender fragrance from Anne's garden wafted through the room that obviously must have come from the grounds outside the open doors, and a feeling of calm seemed to be about them. She silently departed the doorway, her face wearing a pensive expression.

With a few such setbacks during that week, Elizabeth seemed to be gaining back her strength, smiling at the earl's droll sense of humor, debating with him about whether Chaucer was truly the author of all those tales, helping Georgiana pick out music for the week that her family was due to arrive, keeping Lady Matlock smiling as she warned her of some of her family's antics. Darcy remained at her side to support her when she needed him, leaving only when his very faithful steward needed his presence or for correspondence that could not be delayed.

Darcy met his uncle on the last day before the Bennett family was due to arrive, as Darcy came out of his study, having taken care of some estate business that had been neglected for far too long.

"How is Elizabeth faring this morning, son?"

"She is much improved, and I am to take her downstairs in a while. Mrs. Reynolds assures me she will make a complete recovery in a short amount of time."

"That is very good news then."

There was a pause in their conversation as the two men walked down the portrait gallery. They stopped to view the painting of the previous Master and Mistress of Pemberley. As they peered up at the painting, both could tell the thoughts on the minds of those in pose.

"They loved each other very much, did they not?" Darcy voiced softly.

"Yes," his uncle replied just as softly. "Theirs was a love so great that not even death would suppress it." He paused before he added, "Your father could not live without Anne."

Darcy closed his eyes remembering how valiantly his father tried to suppress his sorrow, finally succumbing to blessed death so that he could be united once again with his beloved Anne. He swallowed trying not to let that sorrow envelope him again at being orphaned, along with this new sorrow.

Darcy felt a strong steady hand on his shoulder; a gesture that in the past his uncle bestowed so tentatively, but now did so more freely, knowing the comfort it gave. William looked up into his uncle's kindly eyes. They continued their walk down the corridor.

"I fear that you too have chosen that path. I have never seen you so completely..."

"In love?"

"Yes," replied Lord Matlock. "Just like your father, you have married for love, and not just any love. Like his, yours is of such a deep, overwhelming sort that I fear for you should anything happen to take your Elizabeth from you."

Darcy stared into his uncle's eyes, each knowing the truth to what he just stated.

"Neither Elizabeth nor I would have it any other way."

"Yes. I couldn't talk Anne out of it either. She was so in love with George Darcy, no amount of discussion from either myself or Catherine would dissuade her."

"Why would you wish to be a means of their unhappiness?"

Without answering Darcy's question, Lord Matlock asked instead, "Did you ever wonder why Catherine named her daughter Anne?"

Confused by the apparent change of topic, Darcy simply shook his head; for he now knew it wasn't for the obvious reason.

"It was not done as a gesture to honor your mother. It was rather a statement as to the similarities of their frailty."

Darcy still seemed confused by what he was hearing. His uncle continued his explanation.

"Like your mother, your cousin has the family trait that would curtail her ever entering into a normal marriage. She will never have the strength to carry out the duties of a wife and mother."

"Are you saying that my mother...?"

"Knew of her inabilities and ignored the inevitable consequences with her decision to marry and attempt to have a family."

"And was my father aware of this?"

"After you were born, and your mother almost died, I discussed this with your father. He was beside himself with grief at the thought of losing Anne."

"But she recovered. I have no childhood memories of her being incapacitated."

"Yes, she recovered, fortunately, and George made her promise not to have them tempt fate a second time."

"But then how did-?"

"How did she persuade him to release her of that promise? It was soon after Sophie gave birth to your cousin, Rachel. Your mother fell in love our daughter, and wished for one of her own, and begged your father to let her rescind her promise. He told me of the arguments they had, and the long silences as she fumed. I think she simply wore him down, and he acquiesced to her wishes."

Darcy closed his eyes, knowing the rest, remembering the times he too had asked for a sibling, and felt the guilt of his selfishness surface in him. He had always been so happy that Georgiana was in his life, but now knew the terrible price his parents paid in order to have her.

"I still do not understand how my mother could recover after my birth, but not after Georgiana's."

"Her body just could not regain its strength that the stress of childbirth put on her the second time. She had always been quite frail even as a child. Her decision to have you children was so important to her that she gladly risked her own life."

"You do not believe I am destined to have that same fate? Elizabeth is not like mother."

"No, she seems to be quite robust and healthy. It is just that childbirth is a worrisome time for everyone. What with this recent incident, and your overwhelming love for Elizabeth that is so similar to your father's great love for Anne, it merely brought all these memories back to me. I should not have told you."

But Darcy shook his head saying, "No, I am glad you spoke of it, for in truth it answers many of the questions that I have had about the circumstances of her death. You must remember of my own incapacitation at the time? And Father was not forthcoming afterwards, and I did not have the heart to press him. He did in his final days speak to me of his deep abiding love for mother that consumed him at her death. And I vowed never to allow myself to love so. And then Elizabeth entered my life."

He looked over to his uncle who was now fascinated by Darcy's story. He smiled and continued.

"We both were so fearful to fall into such a deep consuming kind of love, but having finally accepted it, we both realized it was not a chasm or void, but rather an ocean of such bliss, such joy, such peace that to refuse it would go against what we have been taught of an infinite love. We have accepted it with eyes opened, and arms unfolded to take whatever it will give us, consequences and all."

Lord Matlock was nodding as Darcy finished, and the older man smiled.

"So like your mother. She too was obstinate...tenacious...determined..."

Darcy smiled as he realized where he'd gotten that habit of describing people in string of synonymous adjectives, and added others to his uncle's list to describe his own character, "willful, un-yielding, stubborn, persistent, recalcitrant. Need I go on?" His uncle raised his eyebrows in surprise at such a rendition of comparative adjectives, and he raised his hand in surrender.

"No, I think that is quite enough to describe your mother."

"It was my own character that I was describing, uncle."

"I see," was his uncle's reply. "A family trait then? Hmmm. Some of those adjectives could also describe a few more of the females of our family, I am sure," he added with a laugh.

"Quite," laughed Darcy adding, "but it would hardly be polite to voice such descriptions to their faces."

"Only if you wish for complete silence for the remainder of the day." With a nod from Darcy Lord Matlock added, "Come, let us find our indescribable wives."

They found them on the balcony basking in the warmth of the day. Elizabeth was on a chaise lounge, the large greyhound sitting beside her with his head resting on the lounge under her hand. Georgiana sat in a chair on the other side reading from Wordsworth, a favorite of hers. Lady Matlock sat nearby content to watch them as she knitted, a habit her old nurse had taught her as a girl.

Darcy sat on the chaise and took Elizabeth's hand smiling at seeing her happy to be out of doors again. She returned his smile.

Georgiana closed the book and rose from her chair, and touching her brother's shoulder, she said softly, "I will ring the bell and request some tea be brought out here, William." She leaned down and kissed Elizabeth's cheek and turned to go back into the house.

"Rollo, come," Georgiana commanded and the dog went with her. Lord Matlock looked down at Elizabeth and smiled.

"I am happy to see you are feeling better, Elizabeth."

"I thank you, sir."

"You still owe me another game," he teased.

Not wanting to think too much about what had happened, wanting some diversion, she smiled back at him and challenged.

"I will entertain you right now if William can bring the board to us."

"You may be out here all day," teased Lady Matlock.

"My dear, she has warned me that the game will be brief," he teased back smiling at Elizabeth.

"I said no such thing, sir."

He sat beside her in the chair Georgiana had vacated, holding the book she had been reading to Elizabeth, and waited for William to retrieve the board, pieces, and a table.

"Wordsworth? You find his work palatable? Do you not find him somewhat dull?" He teased her knowing what her response would be in defense of the author.

"On the contrary, I find him quite exciting at some of his descriptions of his Walden Pond. Look around at all the beauty of Pemberley, and ask me if I do not agree with his assessments of natural beauty."

He nodded agreeing with her argument as William came out with the chessboard. He set it up before them and sat back down on the chaise beside her, opened the book and began to read. Both his uncle and Elizabeth exchanged looks and smiled.

Georgiana came back out just then as the servants brought out the tea tray. Georgiana handed each a cup and then sat down again with some embroidery as the game commenced.

The earl was the one who made the first move, which brought Elizabeth's eyebrows up in a surprised expression, but she remained silent as the game progressed. A less than stellar move by the earl countered each of hers. After a very brief amount of time, he finally surrendered.

"Well, that was not quite the result I had in mind, but you are a worthy opponent, my dear," he said kissing her hand.

"You had the upper hand on several occasions," she countered, knowing that he had let her win the game. "You need not be so gentle with me, uncle. I will not break."

He stared into her eyes, and knew she was not referring to the chess game. He smiled as he thought she has such an iron will, she is more similar to his wife than either lady was aware. Still holding her hand, he raised it to his lips and kissed it, and began to re-set the board for another game.

"Very well," he challenged, "We shall both play up to our potential," adding, "However, do not be so sure of your moves this time," he added, staring back at her.

"I will be on my guard, uncle. Have no fear." She glanced at Darcy who remained silent, but smiled at her while pretending to read, knowing what was to come.

Another match commenced with the earl truly struggling against her now more focused game as he watched amazed at her executing each of her moves seconds after he had painstakingly thought out each of his own. It was as though she could guess where he would move and block his attempts before he had even thought about them. Darcy simply sat beside her reading, or pretending to read while he held her hand. Every once in a while he would glance up and smile.

When she replied, "Check," Lord Matlock sighed in resignation of his defeat by a truly superior player, and this time he had not merely let her win. He began to think that in all their previous games perhaps it had been she letting him win so as not to deflate his ego.

Darcy closed his book and stated, "Excellent game, uncle. However, I fear you have met your match in her."

"And she has had the benefit of very masterful teacher. I see that now."

The earl stared at the most complex woman he had ever met. One who could have at any time trounced him, but chose instead to keep him entertained for the entire visit because of her kind heart. She was re-positioning the chess pieces on the board, and not looking at him until he spoke.

"Elizabeth, I had enjoyed our games. They have been...enlightening, and I have learned a great deal," he said softly taking her hand and kissing it.

She knew he wasn't talking about chess, and he saw her blush, and slowly raise her eyes to look into his. And in that instant all her strengths and her fears were revealed to him, playing across her face before she blinked and swallowed, and turned her gazed to her husband. Darcy had witnessed this exchange and smiled.

"Can we not take a turn in the garden before luncheon, William?" Elizabeth asked now focusing on her husband. He stared at her face, so filled with love for him.

"If you feel up to it," he replied.

"I am recovered, William. I assure you."

He took her hands and helped her stand, and they walked down the stairs and into the garden leaving the earl on the terrace looking on. Georgiana began to collect the teacups back to the tray as her aunt watched the couple depart down the path, intertwined her arm in her husband's, and spoke.

"She shall be herself again in due time, Henry," she sighed. He nodded, patting her arm on his.

Reflecting further she added, "Even in her sadness, she has but to lean on William for support in order to amass her considerable strength to endure any hardship."

Henry looked over to his wife of many years, another complex woman, knowing she too had gone through similar tragedies to survive them and thrive, and he smiled at her.

"Yes, I told you as much when I first met her, my wife. Kindred souls, are you not?"

She focused her gaze on her husband of many years, and smiled at him.

"You did, indeed, Henry. And as I know, you are never wrong."

He smiled and kissed her hand, and they re-focused their attention on a conversation with their niece about the arrangements for the additional guests due to arrive the next day.

Author's note: I found a piano version of Pachelbel's Canon at http://www.goodier.net/Pachelbel/pachelbel.asp, but my favorite version has always been a string ensemble one of which I found at the site http://www.strathconastringquartet.com/Strath4-4/strath4-pachelbel-canon-2.htm which is also a video. Cool.

Chapter 54 - The Bingley's and the Bennett's arrive at Pemberley

In late afternoon the carriage with all the Bennett's came up the drive from London; Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana waited on the steps. Lord and Lady Matlock waited in the large parlor to be introduced when the entire party had entered the house. When the carriage halted and the door opened the first to descend was Bingley who handed Jane out, followed by Mary and lastly Kitty. Jane immediately hugged Elizabeth, Georgiana hugged Kitty, and Bingley and Darcy held each other's arms smiling. After Elizabeth hugged Mary and Kitty, the entire group of young girls gathered together for some private conversation. While the two married couples talked, Darcy asked the question both he and Elizabeth were puzzled over.

"Charles, where are Mr. and Mrs. Bennett?"

"I am truly sorry to relate bad news, but Mrs. Bennett seems to have taken ill with a rather bad cold, so bad in fact that the doctor forbade her to travel all this way. Mr. Bennett offered to stay home and have his sister, Mrs. Phillips attend to his wife. He sends his regrets at not being able to attend, but hopes to come in autumn."

"And so mother is not gravely ill then?" asked Elizabeth.

"No, no, she was uncomfortable, of course, but nothing to be unduly alarmed about."

Darcy and Elizabeth exchanged looks and then he hastened to add, "We are both glad then that she in not very ill. Shall we proceed to meet my aunt and uncle?"

"Oh, yes, Mr. Darcy," came from Kitty. "I am looking forward to meeting an actual earl."

He looked at her, and then shook his head. "Then I would not keep you in suspense a moment longer."

The group made their way up the stairs and into the house amid many ooh and ahs from Kitty. Bingley noticed Darcy frown.

"I see you have noticed, Darcy," remarked Bingley as the ladies filed into the entryway. "We seemed to be out numbered."

Darcy smiled and teased, "I wonder at your having survived the carriage ride with so many."

"Actually, it was a most pleasant experience."

"Indeed? How so?"

"It seems that Miss Mary has taken to reading more than just sermons of late, and has a great deal of opinions with some of our more current authors."

"Really? That is a most remarkable turn of events."

"Yes, you will find her much more interesting to converse with, I am sure. And Kitty, Miss Katherine, well, she is still..."

"Still infatuated with all things military?"

"Not that, no, but she is still full young yet, and all the things that go along with it, as you are aware."

"Indeed, I am."

"Perhaps we can find amusing things for her as well as Miss Mary."

When the entire party entered the parlor after having rid themselves of the accessories of travel such as bonnets, gloves, and coats, they were ushered in to meet the regal couple. Lord Matlock rose and stood beside Lady Matlock's chair.

Darcy said, "Aunt and uncle, this is my friend and his wife. Lord, Lady Matlock, Mr. and Mrs. Bingley." Charles bowed and Jane curtsied.

"How to you do, sir," Charles replied smiling.

"Your Ladyship," Jane replied in a whisper. "We are most happy to make your acquaintance."

"As we are you," responded Lady Matlock smiling at this most demure young woman whom Lady Matlock liked immediately.

Proceeding with the rest of the introductions, Darcy said, "And these are my sisters, Miss Mary Bennett, and Miss Katherine Bennett." Both girls curtsied, but each had a complete opposite reaction to Lord and Lady Matlock.

"How do you do, Sir, Madam," Mary replied simply.

Mary eyes came up as she rose from her curtsey in almost a challenging expression. She was not wholly impressed by nobility, and was not shy to show them. Lady Matlock was not sure how to take this young woman.

Kitty was the model of submissive awe, and even after she rose from her curtsey could not bring herself to look into either of their eyes. She backed up to stand beside her sister not knowing what else was expected of her.

It was then that Georgiana broke with decorum and whispered into Kitty's ear, and the two girls practically jumped up and down as they held hands in a suppressed squeal, happy to be together again.

"Really? Can you show me now?" asked Kitty both girls having forgotten all their shyness at present. Georgiana nodded, and they started out the door grabbing Mary's arm to drag her down to the music room as well. Mary's eyes rolled in her head at this indignity, but then smiled as she allowed herself to be pulled willingly now by both the younger girls out of the room and down the hallway to the music room.

Bingley was jovial and kind and made friends with the earl and his lady with his unassuming and humble demeanor. As the servants took the luggage to the rooms, tea was brought in; the Darcys and the Matlocks listened while Charles and Jane shared their adventures of the trip. Music of a decidedly lively nature was heard from down the hallway, and the Elizabeth sighed and shook her head. Lord Matlock smiled knowing that this was going to be an interesting two weeks with these new additions to the household.

Seating for dinner had changed with the additional guests. Darcy kept Elizabeth close, and seated her at his right from his end of the table enabling him to take hold her hand, should he feel the need, which was noticed by Lady Matlock several times during the course of the meal. Darcy had the earl sit at the other end with his wife at his right. Bingley and Jane were next to Elizabeth while the three younger girls sat across the table on Lady Matlock's side.

Dinner was lively with several conversations going on at once; Kitty being suddenly animated as she related to subdued Elizabeth the goings on around Meryton with some of the friends she had left behind. Georgiana and Mary too seemed to be involved in a musical discussion that carried through until the last course was served. Charles and Jane were quietly conversing with the earl about some of the practical aspects of caring for a manor, and Lady Matlock took an interest in the discussion when she could make suggestions to which Jane showed much appreciation.

The dinner finally ended with Darcy and Bingley wishing to retire to the study, pausing in the hallway long enough to know where the ladies would be when they had finished their private conversation.

"We will gather in the music room instead of the parlor tonight, William," voiced Georgiana, more animated than ever.

Darcy, having taken Elizabeth's hand to delay her departure, said to his sister, "Very well. We will join you directly."

He then said to Bingley, "I shall with you momentarily, Charles," who nodded and walked down the now deserted hallway to the study.

Focusing now on Elizabeth, he looked into her eyes seemingly asking if she were overly tired, having noticed her quiet demeanor during dinner. She smiled up at him, but he noted that her eyes lacked their normal sparkle. His hand caressed her neck pulling her closer to him, and his lips brushed her softly, wanting nothing more than to take all her sadness from her.

"I am well, William," she began.

He sighed as he embraced her to his chest. "You are not," he whispered, knowing his wife's determination to seem recovered when he could tell she was anything but. She was trying to act like she didn't need him with her tonight, but failing miserably. He could read her so well now. He didn't wish to go from her side. But she rallied.

"I shall be fine tonight," she responded back. "So long as you two do not tarry long in the study."

"I shall be brief," he promised, again looking down at her, caressing her face. She smiled.

"See that you are," she tried to tease, but he knew it was all for appearance. He squeezed her hand before releasing it.

He watched as she walked down the hallway to the sound of music that had already commenced, saw her square her shoulders, and lift her head. He sighed, and turned to follow Bingley down the hallway.

He entered the study, and motioned for Bingley to take a seat in one of wing chairs facing the desk, serving him a brandy. Darcy swirled the liquor around in his glass, deep in thought. Bingley knew something was on his mind.

"What is it that you have sequestered me to talk of, Darcy?" The look he gave Bingley made the younger man jump to a conclusion.

"Has there been a post? Have you news of ill health from Longbourn? Is it Mrs. Bennett?"

"No post has come. As far as I know, she is no worse. What has happened is...in regards to Elizabeth."

Here Darcy rose and stood by the hearth, his arm resting on the mantle for support. Bingley sat anxiously, his face frozen in expectation.

"Less than a fortnight ago...we found out that she was with child...just as it was lost to us." He swallowed.

Bingley's face started to become elated, then saddened as Darcy finished his sentence. He put his glass on the table as he rose to stand beside his friend.

"I...am dreadfully sorry, Darcy. To have had the possibility only to have it be taken away again. I am truly sorry for your loss. You should have sent word for us not to come."

"No, we all thought it would do her good to have her family here, especially Jane."

Bingley looked down at the fireplace scuffing his boot on the slate hearthstone. "Well...yes...Jane will do her best to comfort her."

Darcy looked at his best friend and knew Bingley was upset about the circumstances, and Darcy motioned for them to sit again. He stared at his young friend.

"Was I wrong in not sending you word? What is it that you have to relate? Have you and Jane-"

"No," Bingley interrupted quickly. "No, we have nothing to relate in that regard, nothing whatsoever." He let out an exasperated sigh, and downed his entire brandy.

"Charles?"

"Jane is the most wonderful angel..."

Darcy tried to tease his friend into an easier mood in order to get him to open up.

As he smiled, Darcy said, "Charles, we have already established her in the ranks of the seraphim. No other woman in the world is as kind as your Jane."

"Yes...well. It just breaks my heart to see her so sad of late."

"What is it that has caused her to be so? Certainly you are not the cause of her distress?"

"Well..."

"Charles, surely you have done nothing to grieve her?"

"I suppose...I am the one that has...indirectly caused her melancholy."

When Bingley did not come forward with a further explanation, Darcy replied in exasperation, "Bingley, I am not understanding you. Of what are you talking?"

"The fact of the matter is that...well...Jane and I were certain that...like you, we would have already begun a family. What with Mrs. Bennett's propensity of having children we thought...surely we thought Jane too would be with child by the first week, or surely by the first month. After I had my talk with Mrs. Bennett she assured me that my husbandly duties would be sufficiently done monthly-"

"Bingley, please do not tell me you have taken marital advise from Mrs. Bennett!"

"Well, no...not exactly. I did talk to Jane about what her mother related to me, and how I thought that...perhaps that would not be...frequent enough occurrences to ensure that we might be successful. Although she was quite reluctant, we agree to a weekly session, and both believed that Saturday was the best day for it."

Darcy turned away from his friend and down half a glass of brandy, this being more information than he required at present. The strong liquor burned him all the way down to his stomach, and then kept burning. He panted a few times to catch his breath, his cheeks now bright for two reasons. Finally, he asked his younger friend,

"And thus far, this approach has had no success?"

"None, whatsoever, and now Jane thinks that perhaps she is destined to be like her childless Aunt Phillips." Bingley let out a very long sad sigh.

Darcy took a deep breath before he asked, "Charles, has not occurred to you to increase the frequency of your endeavors to better ensure a positive result?

"But I do not wish to impose on Jane any more than is necessary."

"Impose?"

"Yes, Mrs. Bennett assured me it would be an imposition on Jane-"

"Charles, I implore you to dismiss everything that Mrs. Bennett has told you as regards your marital felicity."

"But she has a great deal of experience in this matter."

"So has Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner, as have my own aunt and uncle, both of whose marriages are infinitely more agreeable than is Mrs. Bennett's. Why would you not solicit advice from either of them?"

"I do not have the privilege of knowing either couple intimately, and so could hardly ask their advice-"

At that moment a soft cough came from the darkened corner of the chairs facing the window. Both Darcy and Bingley jumped from their chairs at their conversation being overheard by they knew not who. Then the rich voice of the earl spoke.

"As I am now known to you, sir, I feel free to give you some advice that you so richly need." He then rose from his comfortable chair to his full height, and turned to face the young men, both of whom still felt disconcerted.

"Mr. Bingley," the earl said in a quiet voice to belie his piercing stare. "Before I offer any advice, you must answer honestly to the next question I put to you."

"Of course, sir."

"Does your wife feel that her marital duties are an imposition? No, do not look away, or over think the question. Just answer me truthfully."

Bingley's cheek were flushed as he replied, "Sir, I can say...that...at first she was very reluctant and wary, but has...warmed up to our encounters with some degree of ...feeling." Bingley could feel his cheeks burning with embarrassment.

"So, she is not being imposed upon?"

"Well...no."

"So, if as William suggests, the frequency of your...encounters increases, not being excessive, then perhaps she would still not feel imposed upon?"

"Well...I suppose...if it wasn't excessive," agreed Bingley. Then Bingley had his own question. "But...how...frequently? How many...?"

"Frequently," was Lord Matlock's reply. Darcy swallowed and turned to pour himself another drink. This was entirely too much information.

"But-"

"Mr. Bingley, do not count them," the earl reiterated. Darcy poured a drink for his uncle who gave him a slight nod as he took the offered drink.

"But-"

"Perhaps, it would be best for you to have the remainder of this discussion with your wife, Mr. Bingley," offered the earl.

"Yes...yes...of course," agreed Charles placing his glass on the table that he had held onto for the whole of the discussion. "Yes, I think that is...an excellent idea. Thank you for...all your...advice, Lord Matlock."

And with that Charles looked at Darcy both still embarrassed, and departed the study with the other two men staring at each other silently, Darcy still embarrassed at discussing someone else's conjugal habits.

"Had I known the room was occupied, I would never have told Charles about Elizabeth that began this whole discussion."

"Oh, I think perhaps it is for the best," the earl sighed. "That young man is a very loyal friend to you, and offered both sympathy in the form of condolences and solitude in his offer at removal if need be to give you a chance to grieve."

"Yes, he is a true friend."

"And perhaps I have set him to rights as regards his own situation, monthly encounters, indeed. As I recall, most newly married couples cannot seem to leave each other alone, propriety or not."

At this Darcy could not hold his gaze and watched the liquor swirl in his glass. His uncle knew what he was thinking, and said softy, "I know perhaps your Elizabeth does not welcome your advances at present, but she will renew them in time, son."

"It is not just about missing the intimacy. I miss her smile and the way she laughs at the oddest things, the debates we have, how she plays with the dogs and talks to my horses, how when she plays on the piano her music fills my soul with joy. There are so many things she touches that thereafter glow with her warmth. My heart aches to see her now thus and I would gladly exchange places with her to spare her this pain which seems even far deeper than my own."

"Spoken like a true Darcy. But you see through your caring of her how everyday she is better. She will be back to you in due time. Have patience, son."

Then almost second nature now, his uncle's hand touched Darcy's shoulder. Darcy looked up to him, and silently nodded in agreement.

As Charles and William were in the study talking, Elizabeth decided to take Jane out to the garden directly outside the French doors of the music room where they had left Mary and Georgiana playing a duet on the piano with much relish. Kitty was trying her hand at knitting as Lady Matlock instructed her.

The two older sisters strolled down the main path arm in arm. The sun had set turning the sky from golden pink, crimson now to purple, with stars just beginning to appear. Jane was overwhelmed by the sudden bursts of colors from the spring bulbs or crocus, snowdrops, and tulips. Soon the spring would bring a new birth to all the flowerbeds to create a multitude of wonderful rainbows and fragrances.

"This is beautiful, Lizzy. It puts me in mind of our rose garden at home...at Longbourn. Remember when as children we would walk through the paths and pretend it was a garden by a castle with a prince and his princess? And how we imagined the happy ever after tale of all the children running around the garden paths? All the children the prince and princess would have to make their lives complete?"

"Yes," was all the reply Elizabeth could make at the old game they used to pretend in their own park.

Jane continued with, "This is just how I pictured it, Lizzy, being surrounded by such complete beauty."

"Not complete," Elizabeth whispered which drew Jane's attention away from the flowers as she gazed at her sister, who had barely said a word since she had arrived.

Taking her hands and sitting with her on the bench, Jane looked at Elizabeth's despondent face and said, "Tell me, Lizzy. I am come to be with you. What is the matter?"

Elizabeth took deep breath and sighed. "It was William and my fondest wish to begin our family as soon as may be." Here she stopped and looked down at her hands resting in her lap. Jane sat silently waiting for her to continue.

"We...did not know how quickly it would happen..." Jane's face lit up in expectation.

"Lizzy, are you-"

"No. Not any longer," she sighed and began to cry.

"Oh, Lizzy," Jane sighed softly holding her now crying sister in her arms. "I am so very sorry for you."

"And I did not have my dear Jane to help me through this."

"I am here now, Lizzy."

For the longest time, the two girls gently hugged each other without words spoken, both too down-heartened amid all the beauty surrounding them to say anything. It was quite a while before Elizabeth quieted and began to try to sniff back tears. Jane kissed her cheek repeatedly trying to quell her tears.

"I would have come sooner had you sent word to me, Lizzy. Why did you not?"

"You were so far away, but I knew you would be here within a fortnight. And we were not alone any longer."

"William's aunt was kind, was she not?"

"Yes, she appears to be unreachable, but has softened much and they have extended their visit to aid me. She is very sweet when you get to know her."

"And...you are well now? There is nothing else wrong?"

"No, I am quite recovered now, I assure you. At least... physically."

"And you will try again, will you not?"

"Yes," she acknowledged. "But...I need time yet before I feel ready to attempt it."

There was a pause before Jane ventured, "At least you were...for a little while...we have not been so fortunate yet."

"Oh, Jane, you will have so many children with Charles. It just takes time."

"I must be patient, I realize. It's just...that after mother's talk with me, she implied that in a very short time..."

"I fear mother's advice in these matters has been quite inadequate in regards our marriages."

"Yes," agreed Jane knitting her brows as she thought back on all her mother's statements that now seemed entirely erroneous. "It is merely that she had been long married and so we thought her advice would be sound."

"I know, dear Jane. I know," was all she said as she hugged her back.

They stayed in their embrace for a long while, until Darcy came upon them in the garden.

He smiled and said, "Jane, I did not yet have a chance to tell you how happy we both are that you and Charles are here. It is good to have Elizabeth's family with us."

She looked kindly at him and smiled in reply, "Had we known the need, William, we would have been here without delay." He nodded, knowing that Elizabeth had informed her.

"Of that I have no doubt," he said kissing her hand. "You are the best of sisters a man could inherit." She smiled, and rose from the bench, realizing that they would want a moment of quiet and reflection.

"I would go to back to house. Have you been with Charles? Has he also been informed? Or do you wish this to remain private?"

"Charles was told while we were in the study. He, like you, was most sympathetic and kind. And I believe he was looking for you afterwards."

"I would go find him, then," said Jane turning to go. She paused to caress Elizabeth's cheek and smile at her. She nodded.

Jane departed giving Darcy leave to sit down beside Elizabeth, and he took her hand in his, kissing it. She smiled at him.

"I see we both are of like mind when it came to informing Charles and Jane." She nodded as she leaned against his chest for comfort. His arms embraced her.

"And although I wished for Jane's comfort, I am not certain it was a wise course of action."

He sighed. "They are both despondent then. Charles is so because of Jane's sadness at not yet being with child. And it seems to be some of your mother's doing."

Elizabeth raised her head from his chest as a surprised look came across her face wondering what Charles had told him.

"What does she have to do with Charles?"

"As it happens, you and Jane were not the only ones she deemed necessary to speak with on the morning of our nuptials."

"She spoke to Charles as well?"

He nodded, and said teasingly, "So I am surprised then that they had the courage to consummate their marriage." He kissed her temple, his hand bringing her head back to his chest, and he tightened his embrace.

"But, her letters spoke of their happiness of being that of a married couple, William."

"They are happy in their marriage, Lizzy. They have merely been given the wrong advice by your mother as to...how often..." He trailed off, blushing. She again looked into his face, as she realized what he was referring. Her mouth opened in surprise.

"She told them to do their duties...?"

"Monthly," he sighed. Her eyebrows arched up in shock.

"But surely they did not take her advice?"

"Weekly." His cheeks were beginning to pink, and he kept his eyes averted.

"But...is that still not...."

"Apparently not to ensure success." Darcy's face was crimson now at repeating a discussion, which had already made him uncomfortable.

"And you set him to rights?"

"My uncle, actually, who had eavesdropped on the whole of our conversation."

"Indeed?" She replied even more shocked than before, and only managed to ask, "And his advice was...?"

"Merely to increase the frequency of their encounters."

"And that would be sufficient to...?"

"Apparently so."

"Oh," she replied blushing at the thought of all of them having such a conversation. She merely added, "that advice seems sound." Her mood became somber as she buried her face against his chest, and he felt it when she began to breathe in his scent through his vest.

"Yes," he whispered re-focusing on her now, and he swallowed, leaning his forehead against hers, closing his eyes, and breathing in the lavender about her.

He felt her hand move up his chest, and caress his cheek, lifting her chin to reach his lips. She began kissing him with more feeling than she had in weeks.

His lips deepened the kiss to equal her response. His hand tangled in her hair as he heard her begin to pant. God, he thought, how much he missed her, wanted to make her his all over again. But he then noticed that her responses were not what he was used to from her. She was passionate, yes, but frantic and almost desperate. He tried to calm her, kissing her forehead and then her temple, but feeling her growing response to his attentions.

"Lizzy...?" He felt the heat of her hands on his chest. She sighed, her eyes closed as she pulled his head to hers, wanting him to kiss her again. "William, please."

He panted, wanted her completely, but knowing somehow she still wasn't ready, and so began to slow the pace of their passions which only made her more agitated as her ardor increased.

"Love me, William," she begged clinging to his neck. He took in a long ragged breath.

"There is nothing I desire more at this moment than give you what you ask, Lizzy, but-" Her desperate kisses covered his face and lips which he couldn't resist returning.

"Please," she whispered almost in tears now and in such a pleading tone so unlike the woman he knew, as she continued kissing him. He knew he would do anything she asked of him, but this didn't seem the right somehow.

"But are you not still grieving both for yourself and now for Jane?" She stopped kissing him, and looked into his eyes seeing the truth of his words.

She bowed her head, and collapsed onto his chest and began to cry then, as he held her against him. He sighed calming himself as he tried to comfort her until her tears abated.

He picked up her now quiet form, and carried her upstairs to her bedchambers. He entered the room, pushed the door closed, and brought her over to her bed, gently laying her upon it.

"Stay with me, William," she whispered. "Do not leave me."

Snuggling next to her he whispered back, "I will never leave you, Lizzy."

She looked into his eyes, knowing what he had said in the garden was true, and tried to calm herself as she felt him next to her. Kissing her temple and cheeks, and finally her mouth he helped her calm. His embrace was gentle; his hands caressed her in a soft massage that drained away her tension. He stayed with her until he heard her soft breathing as he watched her fell asleep in his arms, knowing tonight's setback had been due partly to her being overly tired in preparations and the anticipation of the arrival of her family, too much so to entertain them. Sighing he now wished he could have convinced her to stay in her room to rest.

But as he gazed down at her now serene face next to his chest, he knew her desperate pleas tonight made him aware of just how far she had come since the incident. Though she had more grieving to do, he realized that she was now moving to the point of being willing to risk a reoccurrence for the chance to have children. His eyes closed but his mind was kept awake as he reasoned that up until tonight she had made no indication that she was ready to even allow such a thought to enter her mind. And even if she were not yet ready to act on that thought, her pleas had at last expressed the wish to get beyond this sadness and move on. He smiled as a plan began to form in his mind to help her do just that.

And though he planned to return downstairs to keep his family company until they retired, a peaceful sleep over took his mind, and he drifted off still fully clothed beside Elizabeth.

Jane and Charles upstairs

After Jane left Darcy and Elizabeth in the garden Jane made her way upstairs to her bedchambers, gently knocking on the adjoining door between hers and Charles chambers. Without much of a pause he opened the door, staring at her lovely face.

"William said you wish to speak with me?"

They stared at each other silently as he didn't know how to begin. Finally, he stumbled through with, "ummm...yes...please...come sit down for a moment," taking her hand and leading her to one of the couches before the fireplace. She sat down, and waited for him to do likewise, but he remained standing, still not knowing what to say.

"Charles, is what you have to say bad news? Is it mother-"

"No, no. It is nothing like that," he assured her, sitting beside her now, and taking her hand in his. He looked into her beautiful eyes, and wished he could make her happy once more. She looked down just then, and he sighed finally finding the words to begin.

"It is that when William spoke to me of Elizabeth..."

"I am so sorry for her, Charles. She told me in the garden, and how she is now well, and that they will try again in the future..."

"Jane, after he told me of Elizabeth...I told Darcy about...how sad you have become..."

"Oh, no, Charles, you didn't..."

"He asked why you were so...and I told him how we wished to have a family and...and then I said that your mother had told me-"

"Charles, you discussed it with William? About what she suggested?"

"I also related to him what we had agreed on...and how it was still not successful...in securing you with a-"

"Charles! How could you?"

"Jane, I had not the slightest intentions of saying anything of the sort to him. It just...came out, and then the earl suggested-"

"You spoke to him too?" Jane's face was crimson by this time as she sat totally embarrassed at being the topic of such a discussion. She covered her face with her hand as tears began to flood her eyes.

"Unbeknown to either of us, he was in the room and heard all...and suggested that we would possibly find success by merely increasing our sessions..."

"What?"

"He suggested-"

"I heard what you said, Charles. I...just am too overwrought to think anymore of this." She rose from her chair, and walked into her bedchamber. He followed he trying to explain his actions.

"Janey, dear. I am truly sorry for having anything of this nature being talked of, especially as regards our own..." His voice trailed off as he held her hands truly sorry to have her feel worse than she already did over the entire situation.

She thought silently for a moment and then said quietly, "The earl thinks we would be successful by just...he did not feel that there was anything else...faulty?"

Charles now stared at her, knowing that she wished to at least talk of it. "No...he said nothing of anything being amiss...just that if we..."

"Oh."

"Increase..."

"But...then how often did he...how frequently should we..."

"Ah, that is the exact word he used."

"What word?"

"Frequently."

"Charles?"

"Yes?"

"How...frequently?"

"Hmmm...well...he did not specify a number...but said that we were not to count them."

"Not count them?"

"Yes, only that they be...frequently."

Jane thought for another minute and then added, "Then...we would have to add other nights...besides Saturday?"

"Well...yes...I suppose that frequently must mean other nights as well...although he made no mention it having to be nights-"

"Charles!" Her face again glowed crimson.

"Jane, I am only relating to you what he did not mention...I did not mean to imply that we would be forced to..."

Jane sighed and nodded and tried to calm her nerves so she could again think clearly. "So...any...night would be acceptable?"

"Well...yes...I would assume so...should you wish to..."

"Tonight is...Monday?"

"Yes...tonight is Monday."

"Monday is...a...good...night," Jane finally stuttered out.

She looked hopefully at Charles whose surprised expression changed to one of delight as he smiled. "Yes...Jane...Monday is a good night." She smiled back.

The younger girls finally departed the music room with a desire to have a more private conversation, and so retired into Georgiana's bedchambers, leaving Lord & Lady Matlock alone.

"We seem to me the only ones about at present," remarked Lady Matlock to her husband.

"So it seems. Would you care to take a turn in the garden, my dear?"

"I would like that, yes," replied Lady Matlock, waiting for him to hold the door open for her. They exited from the music room and onto the balcony where they wandered about the paths of the newly blooming flowerbeds.

"I have yet to see the Bingley's after Jane took a turn with Elizabeth in the garden, Henry." He smiled to himself at a sudden thought struck him as to their whereabouts.

"Oh, I should think they are occupied at present, my dear," was his only reply.

"And William and Elizabeth are missing as well."

"He has no doubt taken her back to her rooms to rest," he sighed. "He is most attentive to her care."

"Yes," agreed Lady Matlock as they walked. "I cannot fault him for it though. He is his father's son after all." She smiled remembering how George Darcy had taken such good care of Anne.

"He is still despondent over their loss of a child and for the moment his wife, although she appears to be recovered."

"She has not had enough time yet, dear husband. You remember how long it took me to feel myself again, especially after our third attempt."

"Yes," he sighed kissing her hand. "I was so distressed to see you so sad, even I was ready to give up another attempt to keep that pain from re-visiting you."

"But if we had, then we would not have our three wonderful children, Henry."

He nodded. "As will William and Elizabeth in due time."

There was a pause in their speech as they turned a corner in the path, and were struck by the beauty of the garden, which was abloom with every color of the rainbow. Both stopped and viewed the splendor.

"Oh, Henry. He has made this a paradise for her."

"No wonder he would choose never to want to leave here." They sat beside the pond on a little bench with only room for two, and he embraced his wife of many years, and kissed her within all the garden's beauty. The night sky was clear and the stars were twinkling in the sky.

Sighing after he released her lips, she whispered, "Henry, we need a garden like this."

"Indeed," he said smiling into her lovely eyes.

Continued in Next Section