The Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter 6

Posted on Saturday, 14 September 2002

I want to thank again Rachel for her patient work as my beta reader. I also want to make a couple notes that will apply to this post and the next by way of information.

1. Women did not attend funerals at this time in history.
2. The fellow referred to, Mr. William Wade, actually peformed funerals at this time in history. He is a real person in 1810 and his services would have been available.

That afternoon Mr. Darcy had several matters of business to settle. He sent a letter by express to Georgiana requesting her to come to Netherfield as soon as possible. Darcy sent another a letter by post to Pemberley's housekeeper requesting that a family apartment be made up and kept available for a young lady who will be accompanying the Darcy's the next time they arrive. Finally, a letter was sent by post to Mr. Darcy's steward at Pemberley directing that all his correspondence and estate business be forwarded to him at Netherfield for the near future, as his stay there would be of an unknown duration. That same afternoon, Elizabeth moved from a guestroom to one of the larger family apartments at Netherfield.

On Tuesday, Jane did not wake up at all. Mr. Foster said she was in a coma. There was a constant vigil by her bedside, comprised of Mr. Bingley holding one hand, and Elizabeth holding her other. Mr. Darcy sat in a chair in the corner and occasionally Mr. Bingley's sisters came in and out of the room. Elizabeth had sent a note to both her parents that morning informing them of Jane's condition and that she was not expected to live. Quite to her surprise, her father showed up later in the morning.

"Elizabeth."

"Papa, you came. Thank you. Jane has been in a coma all day. Mr. Foster does not believe she will come out of it. All we can do is hope and pray."

"I do not know what to do for her, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth took his hand and held it to her cheek. "Cannot you look at her, hold her hand, talk to her? Papa, she is your daughter. Oh, Father!"

"May I speak to you in the hall please, Elizabeth?"

"Yes, Papa," she said in a disappointed tone of voice.

"I bring you a note from your mother." He gave her the note. "She has instructed me that you read it in my presence."

"Very well." She opened the note and read -

Longbourn, Tuesday, November 26th

Elizabeth-

You have failed me in every way. You have been a disappointment to me your entire life. Why your father thinks so highly of you I will never know. But now you have gone too far. You have let Jane die and I will not forgive you for this. You are not welcome back at Longbourn. You are disinherited from any portion of the money that was settled on me at my marriage for the children. You are not to try to speak or write to me or to Mary, Kitty, or Lydia. I cannot prevent you from trying to contact your father, but I if get the post first on the day a letter arrives for him, I will destroy it before he ever sees it. Your name is not to be spoken in my presence ever again. I have dismissed the upper maid that waited on you and Jane without recommendation. Anything remaining in this house that is yours will be burnt. You are worthless and unwanted. Do not ever come back.

FB

Elizabeth stood shocked with her mouth gaped open.

"I am sorry, Lizzy, there is nothing I can do. I will assume you are staying at Netherfield for the present. I will check at the Meryton post office each week in case you should write me. Give me new directions if you should leave. I will send you your allowance as you direct."

She closed her mouth. He obviously knew what the letter contained and had nothing to say against it. Mr. Bennet took her hand, kissed it gently. He took one last parting look at her and left her standing in the hall, her whole life passing before her eyes, wondering what she had done that was so wrong to deserve this.

Elizabeth had to decide now whether to feel for herself for Jane. It only took a moment to decide on Jane. She set the note down on a table in the hall and went back into Jane's room, taking her place by her side. Mr. Foster and Mr. Jones stood against a wall, whispering to each other. Darcy had stood up and moved to the foot of the bed. Bingley was holding her hand in both of his and silently crying, tears pouring down his cheeks. Jane was dead. Not only had her mother taken Elizabeth's own life away, she had caused her to miss last few minutes of Jane's life as well.

There was no longer a need to ignore all the embarrassing moments her mother had caused her because of her ill spoken words and deeds. Elizabeth's life had been a continual stream of abuse. There was no reason to pretend, in the name of keeping peace and a semblance of love in the family, that the embarrassments caused by her mother never happened. Elizabeth no longer had a family. All she had now was nearly one and twenty years of pain. She wept for the loss of Jane, for everything that Jane lost, for Mr. Bingley, and for herself. She felt inconsolable. Why could not somebody love her and take away this pain?

Darcy, standing at the foot of the bed, watched her with a lump in his throat. He thought how beautiful she was, even at the worst moment of her life. How he longed to touch her and to hold her. 'I love you,' he said to himself.

Darcy could bear it no longer. He left the room. As he was passed through the hall, he noticed an opened letter resting on a table. It was addressed to Elizabeth from her mother. It was very improper of him, but knowing the troubles in that family, he decided to read the letter. When he finished reading it, he realized he had not been this angry since Ramsgate.

Dinner at Netherfield that night was a very subdued affair. It had taken quite a bit of persuasion on Darcy's part to get Bingley to come down. Having succeeded at that, he then left Bingley alone to persuade Miss Elizabeth to come down. Darcy laughed grimly to himself. 'Miss Elizabeth,' he thought, 'by all that was right they should be calling her Miss Bennet. What else would change for her with the passing of a few heartbeats?' Nobody said much at dinner. Bingley and Elizabeth were very much lost in thought and had no appetite. Neither wanted to be there. Bingley came down because Darcy told him it was the right thing for him to do, and Bingley always wanted to do the right thing. Elizabeth came down because Bingley had told her she needed a break from her sister's room and that she also needed some nourishment. Only compassion for Bingley had motivated Elizabeth, and perhaps she had been wrong. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst where chattering away as if nothing had happened, commenting on how delighted they were with this or that dish that Cook had provided, apparently for their own private amusement as well as consumption.

"Miss Bennet, I am very sorry about your sister," added Miss Bingley rather coolly, after a mouthful of florentine rabbit. "I am sure you will miss her very much. It must be a comfort to you to know that you will be able to return to your own home and family very shortly."

"Thank you, Miss Bingley."

Miss Bingley had been expecting a little more of an answer from Elizabeth, hoping to find out when she would be leaving, and was about to press further when Mr. Bingley said -

"Caroline, Miss Bennet will be remaining with us at Netherfield until we return to town in February. Caroline, I think we are about done here, why don't you lead the way to the music room for us?"

And with that pronouncement, Miss Bingley discovered she was to be hostess for Elizabeth Bennet for the foreseeable future.

Growing up with four sisters and a loud mother never made Elizabeth sorry for the times when she could be alone. Indeed, she sought them out, and by so doing had become an excellent walker. She had explored secluded places in the woods surrounding Longbourn and Meryton that seemed almost private to her, for she never saw a soul there when she occupied them. She had become comfortable enough to take off her bonnet and let her hair down and sing into the breeze, enjoying the sun on her skin, the birds in the air and the solitude. Tonight, however, was different. She was in her bed, in her room, next door to Jane's and the isolation was eating at her. She did not want to be with anybody yet she did not want to be alone. She was inside a home where people lived and servants moved about, almost at all hours, yet she felt forgotten. 'Oh Jane, how could you do this to me? I was never alone, knowing that you were there for me. You always understood me and never judged me ill. You were always so happy and wore a smile for everybody, no one could have been more pleasant than you. See? I should know better, you would not have left me on purpose. I hope it was not anything I did. I hope Mama is not right and that somehow I made you ill you and you died from it. I should not deserve to live myself. What will living even be like without you? There is no one who really loves me anymore. Mama and Papa made that quite clear. I cannot even go home. If you would just talk to me you could tell me what to do, what to say, where I should go. But I know you cannot. You are gone. And now I am truly alone.' Elizabeth curled up in a fetal position on her bed and wept until she fell asleep.

Bingley was annoyed with his sister. 'How could she be so insensitive towards Miss Elizabeth? She is in mourning now, and Caroline is not going to make things harder for her. Or for me. She was not my sister, my fiancée or my wife but I will be mourning just the same. How shall I ever love again? This is not fair. It is just not fair. Her mother killed her, and because that was not enough for her, she decided she would try to kill Miss Elizabeth, also. Well, I shall take care of her for the rest of her life. I do not think I will be able to, though. That job will be Darcy's. Oh Jane, Jane, Jane. You are so beautiful, so gentle, so delicate. We would have been so happy, snuggled in here at Netherfield. I would love to have seen your children. They would have been angels. We could have gone out riding for picnics, taken trips into town, traveled north to Pemberley and beyond. The happiest part of all for me would have been the delighted sparkle in your eyes as you took in all the new sights, smells and sounds. You are too good, Jane; yes, Death triumphed when he took you away from this world, and I will be left with nothing but memories that will gradually fade over time.' He took another look at Jane, left her room and went to his library where he poured himself some brandy, which did not last long, and then he poured himself some more. He fell asleep that night at his desk, joined by a glass half-full of brandy, an empty bottle, and a letter from his steward stained with tears.

Good morning, Miss Elizabeth."

"Good morning, Mr. Bingley. Good morning, Miss Bingley."

"Miss Bennet, as much as it pains me to say so, I know you are in need of clothes and other things with which to properly observe your mourning; and my brother and I would like to escort you into Meryton this morning in the carriage so that you can make your purchases, and not have to walk or be alone." Miss Bingley was quite impressed with the sweetness of her address to Miss Eliza. She did pity her. She knew she was attached to her sister and was not a stranger to the events between Eliza and her mother at the officer's ball. It really was the most interesting part of the ball, which otherwise was a rather boring affair, for who could possibly care about of collection of redcoats anyway. The colonel was married to an infant girl, and none of the others had a suitable fortune, and, well there was Mr. Darcy, so a good family argument was more than welcome.

The party left soon after breakfast and went to a milliner shop where Elizabeth bought some black crepe, black gloves, several black bonnets and shawls and several different styles of fabric, in black, to take to the modiste for some new gowns. She had brought several petticoats with her so the modiste could also sew crepe along the bottom hem just in case they should show. They went to the shoe seller where she bought some black slippers and ordered a pair of black half-boots. Elizabeth had expected to see her family during her time in the village, but from what she gathered from the storeowners at each of her three stops in the village, her family had not yet made any purchases.

Elizabeth was grateful to be able to show such respect to her sister and her memory by being in mourning for her. She only hoped it could proceed without conflict with her family. She knew they wanted nothing to do with her. She wished she could be far away from them, but she was at the mercy of others for this year at least. She did not mind it. She no longer felt unwelcome by them. Mr. Bingley was a gentleman and was always kind to her. Mr. Darcy had changed considerably towards her. She liked him very well and was always happy to be with him. He was very careful and gentle with her; he almost seemed protective of her, and in her fragile state of mind his attentions were not unwelcome, especially as he made no attempt to smother her, either. Mr. Bingley made sure that his sisters were at least considerate and not uncivil, and Mr. Hurst was happy at sport or drink.

When the shoppers returned to Netherfield, there was a note for Elizabeth from her father. She went to a corner seat in the drawing room to read it in private.

Longbourn, Wednesday, November 27th

Elizabeth,

I have made arrangements with the rector at Longbourn church to have Jane's funeral service there Monday at noon. She will be buried under the floor of the small chapel aside the church where the Bennets have been buried since coming to Longbourn during the reign of Charles I. Your mother and Mary are making arrangements for all the flowers for the church and the chapel. It will be a small service, befitting what I would imagine would be Jane's desire. I will invite Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, of course. They can tell you how it went along. A jeweler from Meryton will be by today for some of Jane's hair. He will make mourning rings. Additionally, I am having him make a special ring and locket for you. There is no arguing that you two were the closest of any of us in the family, and I consider the loss on your part to be the greatest. In light of recent events involving your mother, I have judged it inappropriate for us to call at Netherfield and visit with you and see Jane for a last time.

I have contracted by express mail with Mr. William Wade, of Leadenhall Street, London, to perform the funeral. He will arrive at Netherfield before noon Friday with Jane's coffin and shroud. Miss Dawson, from Longbourn parish, will arrive Friday afternoon to assist you in dressing Jane. On Monday morning, around 10:00 a.m., Mr. Wade will close the coffin with the help of some men. They will then transport her coffin by horse and wagon to the church at Longbourn village.

Lizzy, I am very sorry for all this sad business that is going on in our family. I would do anything to change it, but I feel powerless. I miss you very much, my love. Your Father.

After dinner that evening, Mr. Bingley approached Elizabeth saying, "Miss Elizabeth, I cannot tell you again how very sorry I am for you. I know how much you love your sister. I know how you cared for her and nursed her while you were here. I hope you know that I did everything I could for her. If only I had sent for Mr. Foster sooner, or a second physician as well, I do not know what would have helped. And this situation with your family, the injustice of it. It is all too horrible. How you are able to endure such hardship I do not know. I could not begin to be able to teach you patience or any virtue, for that matter."

"Mr. Bingley, I feel for your loss as well. It was impossible for me to always expect to be with her. She would eventually be taken from me. I wished it could have been by you. You would have spent far many more years together than she and I would have. So in some ways, sir, your loss is greater than mine. I know that you loved her. I know that she loved you, as well. And is there not anything so precious as love? Somehow when two souls are joined, there is a completeness of being that cannot be measured, and once achieved, they are almost unable to live without. Take one away, and the other loses half its life. And having just lost my most beloved sister and my family, I believe I feel as if almost my whole life is lost."

"I do not know if I have loved her long enough to say that my life is half lost or not, but I feel her parting immensely," said Mr. Bingley. "It has been years since I have known the tears which have been my company this past day or so. All of my carefully laid plans for the future are gone. I feel adrift. I have no purpose, no direction, nothing to motivate me, nothing to smile at, no reason to be happy. I suppose I did live for her. Maybe I was wrong to wrap my life so wholly up in another person, but it could not be helped. She was irresistible. Who would want to resist her? Loving her was my only option."

"You will rally again, Mr. Bingley. If Jane were here right now, she would tell you to be happy and to love again, if not for your sake, then for hers. You know I am right. There is not a sad bone in her body, and she would suffer to see you so miserable. Take your time. Your heart will heal. You will never forget her." Elizabeth started to cry. "Oh, Mr. Bingley, I promise I would change things for you if I could. I would gladly change places with her if I could. She so much deserved to live. Indeed she did. And I feel that I deserve nothing. Please do not forget her. Let your heart heal. And please, someday, love again, for her sake." And with that, she ran from the room.

Chapter 7

Posted on Tuesday, 17 September 2002

Mr. Wade arrived as planned by noon on Friday. Mr. Wade described Jane's coffin as a 'triple case' coffin with recessed cover, suitable for burial in a double brick grave under the floor of a chapel. It was made of one and a half-inch oak board, surrounded by a lead shell of five pounds weight per square foot that was formed and welded at the corners and seams. The shell was covered by an outer wooden case of one and a half-inch oak board, covered on the outside in scarlet Genoese velvet. There were four pairs of gilt grips on the sides, and an oval shaped 'depositum' on the top, a plate that would have Jane's name engraved on it before her burial. The cover would be bolted on before burial, and small velvet patches placed over the bolt heads. He also described it as a 'single break' coffin: narrow at the head, growing wider at the shoulders, then gradually getting narrower towards the feet. Inside, the coffin was covered in cambric with white 'soft furnishings,' with white linings on the cover and sides, a pillow, padding and a flannel shroud.

The white flannel shroud was woven specifically for use in burials. It originally started as a piece of cloth about twelve feet long and a shoulder widths wide, sewn down one length, making it about six feet long. This was placed over Jane, covering her feet first, after holes for her arms were slit in the sides of the shroud. Straight sleeves of flannel, without gussets, were sewn onto the sleeve holes. Black strips of cloth were used to gather the shroud at different places along her legs and at her ankles. Before the shroud had been place over her, a small strip of cloth had been used to tie her big toes together to keep her legs straight. The shroud was tied and gathered at her wrists. Her arms were laid out straight against the side of her body. At her waist, the shroud gathering included her wrists, to keep her arms in place. The shroud was also gathered around her neck. A cap of the same material was placed on her head.

All of this work at dressing Jane was done by Elizabeth and a woman from the Longbourn parish who traditionally helped with dressing the dead for funerals. Miss Dawson, an old spinster, spoke very quietly as she instructed Elizabeth in the proper way to dress Jane. These arrangements took place in Jane's room, where she died. The coffin would remain there until Monday morning, and neighbors would be calling with their condolences and to view Jane throughout Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday.

It was very special for Elizabeth to be with Jane this last time. Although Jane's body was cold, Elizabeth could feel her warmth in the memories they shared as she tied the shroud to her wrists. Miss Dawson was working on Jane's legs. It was impossible for Elizabeth to work without tears escaping her eyes. As she leaned over Jane, a teardrop landed on Jane's cheek, and for just a moment it looked as if Jane was crying, also. It was more than Elizabeth could bear. She collapsed on the bed and sobbed, unable to comfort herself. Miss Dawson completed the work in silence. She was unmoved. It was not that she was unsympathetic, but being often in the company of death, she was inured to tears and heartbreak. She smiled kindly on Elizabeth as she walked from the room. Her work here was finished. She would go to Mr. Bennet at Longbourn and collect her money and wait for the next death in the parish that would cause her to stir from her small home and warm fire.

After breakfast on Saturday morning, Elizabeth prepared herself for the trials of the day. She knew she would be receiving calls from people in the neighborhood wishing to give their condolences and to see Jane. All of this was appropriate, and it was her place to be strong, but it was going to be difficult. She wished to be alone with Jane and her thoughts.

The first to arrive was Mrs. Long and her two nieces. Elizabeth had always considered them to be pretty, if not a little rude, though Mrs. Bennet had always considered them plain. After seeing Jane, the eldest niece said, "I am so sorry, Eliza that your sister has passed away, but I suppose that things like this will happen from time to time."

Elizabeth said nothing.

The younger girl continued, "Jane was the prettiest girl in the country. She does not look quite as well now, though, you must admit. I am very glad I will not be able to see myself when I am dead. I would be mortified." She laughed at what she thought was a cute joke.

Elizabeth could hardly retain her composure. "Well, for my part, I still consider Jane to be the prettiest girl in the country."

The nieces gave her a strange look. Mrs. Long sneered at her and said, "I am very sorry, Miss Bennet. We must be going. Come along, girls." And with that, they left the room and Netherfield. Elizabeth decided that her mother was right after all. What beauty they had was diminished by their vulgar behavior.

The next visitors were from the regiment, and included Colonel and Mrs. Forster, Captain Carter and Lieutenant Denny. Elizabeth was very glad to see them, as she considered them her friends.

"Miss Bennet," said Colonel Forster, "You cannot imagine how deeply moved I am by your loss. I have seen young men die in battle in my lifetime, which is tragic enough, but to see a beautiful young woman struck down in the height of her beauty and bloom is the most horrible scene I can behold. I am truly sorry. On behalf of the whole regiment, we express our deepest concern for you and your family and offer our services in anyway that would be of use to you. I know it could not make up for the loss of your dear sister, and may be just useless words to you, but it is the consolation to our own hearts that we can offer you."

Elizabeth was very moved by his words, and had tears burning her eyes by the time he had finished.

"My dear Colonel, thank you so much for your kind words. You and your officers have always treated me with kindness and respect and your coming to visit means a great deal to me. I know Jane would be grateful as well. I promise, if there is any need that can be satisfied by you and your men, I will send a servant to you immediately. Indeed, I may need your assistance when it comes time to move Jane to the chapel on Monday.

"We are at your service, Miss Bennet."

Captain Carter added, "Please let me add my own words to what my Colonel said. We are truly grieved. I am truly grieved. You have cared for her very well. She still looks just as beautiful, Miss Bennet. We have all been invited to the funeral by your father and are grateful for the opportunity to pay our respects. Please allows us the opportunity to serve you in anyway you can think possible."

"Thank you all very much," replied Elizabeth. To herself she added, 'Captain Carter must have been in love with her, too,' thought Elizabeth. These welcome guests then left her.

Elizabeth did not know what the regiment could ever do for her. She had chosen to rely on Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, but it was still gratifying to know that she had such good friends. It was sad to think she was not quite as aware of their friendship before Jane died.

Several other families in the neighborhood also called. Although no one had much to say, everyone was kind. It was pleasing to hear Jane spoken of with such respect. She had touched the lives of so many people with her love, patience and kindness. Truly, Jane was too good. Elizabeth knelt down next to Jane's coffin and began to weep for the loss of Jane and everything that was good.

On Sunday Elizabeth felt too ill to attend services. She was too weak emotionally to be in company beyond Netherfield, always too close to tears. It was the first day of December. Jane's birthday was this month. There would be no celebration.

The Lucases called after morning services. Sir William and Lady Lucas looked at Jane for a few minutes and made some comments to Elizabeth about how sorry they were. The younger Lucases and Maria said nothing at all and soon left with their parents. Only Charlotte remained behind. She sat with Elizabeth in Jane's room when they were alone.

"Eliza, you do not look well."

"I am fine, Charlotte."

"No, you are not. I can tell by looking in your eyes that you are ill and drained. You have been crying too much. This must be an awful time for you. I was with my mother when Mrs. Bennet called to tell us that Jane had died and all also to say that you had been disinherited from the family for not having taken care of Jane and contributing to her death and that your name was not to be spoken at Longbourn in her presence ever again. I am sure this must pain you to hear this, but I wanted you to know what she is saying about you to the neighborhood. I do not believe a word of it regarding Jane. I know you must have attended her with every bit a strength you had. I know how much you loved her. You would have done anything for your sister."

"Mama sent me a letter by way of my father on the day Jane died telling me the same thing, Charlotte. I do know what I have done to deserve such treatment. I spent nearly every waking moment with Jane the whole time she was at Netherfield, with the exception of the officer's ball when I was ordered by Mr. Foster, the physician from London, to get out for the evening as he was concerned for my health. He, Mr. Jones and a housemaid stayed with Jane that evening until I returned. My mother was cruel to me that night, I am embarrassed to say how much so. Mr. Darcy found me on the road to Netherfield. I think I was lost. I was crying, nearly out of control of myself, and I was so cold. Maybe I would have died. He brought me back in the Bingley's carriage and made sure I went to bed. I was in a horrible state of mind, but I felt much better the next morning."

"Mr. Darcy seems to care very much for you?"

"He and Mr. Bingley have been very kind to me. I am to remain with them, Miss Bingley and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst for my year of mourning. I will then take a position as a governess and earn my own bread."

"Oh Eliza, is there not other way? Must you become a servant?"

"Charlotte, I will not live in this world a dependent on someone else. I will earn my own way. My portion is too little for marriage to be an option. Indeed, my mother cut off what small dowry I had. I have been completely disinherited by my family. I am alone in the world, left to shift for myself."

"Oh, Eliza, if there was only something I could do for you."

"There is nothing, Charlotte, so do not frustrate and disappoint yourself by wishing for something that is not possible. I am very comfortable right now and very grateful to Mr. Bingley for his hospitality. He and Miss Bingley took me into Meryton the day after Jane died so that I could order mourning gowns and buy bonnets and gloves. They have been very kind to me. As I told you, Mr. Darcy has been very kind, also. I do no expect the situation with my family to change; the sooner I learn to give up hope the happier I will be. So you see Charlotte, I am doing the best I can," Elizabeth finished with a weak smile.

Charlotte stood to take her leave. The friends hugged and kissed each other and mixed their tears on each other's cheek, and said their good-byes. Elizabeth walked Charlotte towards the door,

"Be happy for me, Charlotte, I am sure, all will be well, somehow."

"Yes, Eliza." With that, Charlotte descended the steps and walked back to Lucas Lodge. Elizabeth watched her walk as she stood at the open door, not at all sure that all would be well, with more tears on her cheeks. She slowly went up to Jane's room to ready herself against the arrival of the next mourners.

Jane was gone. At this very moment the funeral service was being conducted at Longbourn church. It seemed to Elizabeth a lifetime since she had even been in that church. Perhaps it will not be until the end of her life that she is in it again. There would be no one to go to her funeral. Papa would be gone, so would her uncle Gardiner and uncle Philips, and Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy would have long ago forgotten about her. Death is convenient way to gain new connections. If a person does not have any close friends or relatives, just die, and somebody is bound to come out of the paneling and say nice words over them. It is just too bad they did not do that when they were alive. But when they were alive, there was no property to be disbursed, nothing to get. So, apparently there is more value in death than in life.

Netherfield felt so empty and cold. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst did not say too much. It seemed like just another day to them. They would talk to each other in the drawing room, near the fire, making plans for this party or that ball that they would undoubtedly receive invitations to this Season in town. They were so looking forward to it. Mr. Hurst had dispensed with all propriety and decency and refused the invitation to the funeral, nearly an unheard of action. He was out with his man and a couple dogs a-shooting. He said that funerals were too sad for him, and that he was not in the mood to cry in front of other men. That, of course, Miss Bennet would understand, and not think ill of him for his not going. "Of course not," she lied. From that moment on, she despised him. Before, she only disliked him.

Elizabeth wondered about her mother and sisters, and what they might be doing at that moment. How would Lydia and Kitty calm themselves for a year of mourning: no dances, no concerts, no chasing after officers, perhaps private dinner parties of small numbers probably in their own home is all? Elizabeth was sure that this was not how they imagined their life would be at this age. They were impatient, reckless girls with no time for anybody or anything but themselves. Hill almost required a separate housemaid just to follow them around to clean up after their little hobbies in the still-room, and in the dining parlor when they decided to rip apart bonnets, and then quit half way through repairing them, ribbons and thread everywhere. Mary spent her whole life in mourning, so all it meant for her was new gowns and things, so she might even enjoy it.

Jane seemed to be the common background for the whole family. Everybody loved Jane, and Jane loved everybody, so therefore, in some strange way, with Jane the family was complete. Now, that common bond was gone. Mrs. Bennet no longer had to be patient with her second daughter. She had completely disowned her and barred her from her home. With Jane's death, Kitty and Lydia would probably grow wilder than ever, being cooped up in mourning with no outlet for the animal spirits they were allowed to develop could only worsen their temperaments. Mary would withdraw even more into the fantasy world of imaginary human morality, where everyone acts perfectly in every imperfect situation. With Jane gone, and now Elizabeth at Netherfield, Mr. Bennet would have no inducement to exercise himself in the role of a parent at all. He cared very little for the younger girls other than to laugh at them. Jane was the only hope the Bennet family had, and that hope was gone forever.

Elizabeth sat down on a settee near a window in the drawing room. She was now alone. Outside, it was sunny though chilly. How odd, she thought. It should be rainy and cold. How could nature be anything other than sad on the day of Jane's funeral? She leaned her head against the arm of the settee and began to cry. She felt like all she did was cry. But there was no Jane to comfort her, so how would she ever be able to stop crying?

On Tuesday a carriage was heard driving up the paddock. One servant went out to assist the occupants in descending from the carriage and another went to announce the arrival of the carriage to the ladies and gentleman, who were spending the afternoon in the music room. They all repaired instantly to the entryway where Darcy saw Miss Darcy descending from the carriage and went out to greet her.

"Oh brother, it is so good to see you. What is so urgent, that I should come so quickly to Netherfield? Is something wrong?"

"Georgiana, I am so glad to see you again. Is all well in town, I hope?"

"Everyone is well at the townhouse, I suppose. Miss Langhourne's niece just had a son. She is the new cook, if you remember."

"Yes, I do remember Miss Langhourne. Please come in and then we can have some serious talk." They moved together into the house.

"Miss Bennet, this is my sister, Georgiana. Georgiana, Miss Elizabeth Bennet." Elizabeth's eyes swept over Miss Darcy. She was young but her figure was well formed. She was lovely. She had beautiful golden hair, just the opposite of her brother's dark hair, although she shared his dark eyes. Her skin was very pale; if she held still enough, she looked like a china doll. She had an air of innocence about her that was charming. The curl at the end of her lip suggested she was more inclined to laughter and light-heartedness than her brother was. Unfortunately, though, she appeared to be no match for Miss Bingley. Hopefully Mr. Bingley would take mercy on her and keep Miss Bingley at bay.

"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Bennet."

"And I you, Miss Darcy."

"Dear Georgiana, welcome to Netherfield," added Miss Bingley.

"Thank you, Miss Bingley." It was clear Georgiana was not very comfortable around Miss Bingley. She was far older than Georgiana, and seemed too condescending, as if she was trying to get something. Miss Bingley always addressed Georgiana by her first name, which always seemed improper, as she had never given her permission to do so. But, for her brother's sake, Georgiana would be patient with Miss Bingley. He was a great friend of Mr. Bingley's, so there would be no escaping the acquaintance. Besides, who would want to escape Mr. Bingley?

"Miss Darcy, welcome to Netherfield. I wish it was under happier circumstances that you were here, but indeed it is a pleasure to see you anytime. Please, just call on me for anything you may require so that your stay here will be comfortable and enjoyable. I am sure you have much to talk about with your brother, so I will leave you two to yourselves. The library is available to you now for your privacy, if you wish," said Bingley, with a bow.

"Thank you, Bingley. Come along, Georgiana, I have much to tell you of."

Mr. and Miss Darcy retreated to the library, leaving the others to scatter over the house in search of their own amusements until dinner called them together. In the library, the conversation went something like this:

"What is wrong, Fitzwilliam?"

"Miss Bennet's sister Jane died since I last wrote to you. I mentioned that she was here and quite ill."

"I ventured to guess that something had happened; Miss Bennet is in mourning."

"Yes, it was not a pleasant scene, though I suppose it could never be expected to be so. I can say that she died without any pain. The most awful part of the business is that Elizabeth's family, her mother most particularly, accuses her of having facilitated Jane's death by not properly caring for her. This is absolute nonsense, of course, but her mother is the most foolish, disagreeable woman I have ever been acquainted with. Elizabeth has been with her sister night and day since she arrived here ill over two weeks ago. Her mother actually sent Jane over on horseback, in the rain, to answer an invitation sent by Caroline and Louisa."

"That is unbelievable, shocking! But what of Miss Elizabeth?"

"She has been cast off by her family and has sought and received Bingley's protection while he remains at Netherfield and for the year of her mourning. She intends to find employment as a governess after that. Georgiana, I have asked you to come here to be her friend. I think very highly of her, and I am hoping that at some point we can persuade her to come to Pemberley with us."

"I noticed, brother, that you called her Elizabeth."

"Yes, well, at the end of her mourning, I intend to ask her to be my wife."

"Oh, Fitzwilliam, I am so happy for you. I am sure she will love you"

Chapter 8

Posted on Thursday, 19 September 2002

"I do not know her feelings. I have only recently become acquainted with my own. I do not intend to do anything or say anything that will intrude on her time of mourning, nothing that will disturb her peace of mind, interrupt her healing, or affect her in any negative way. She is in no way prepared to hear anything now, nor will she be for many months, I would imagine. But I have great hopes. She is very kind and generous. I am in horror that she can be treated thus by her family, and it is my intention to replace with all that is in my power the loss of love and home she is suffering under by being dismissed so horribly by them. They have never known her if they have the power to treat her in this such a way."

"Fitzwilliam, I will try. I will to do everything I can. You know I am shy. She is so much older than I am. I am only sixteen, you know."

"She is nearly one and twenty, but I have heard that her dearest friend in Meryton is nearly six years her elder. Age does not make a difference to her. And you, Georgiana, are one of the sweetest young women in the world, so I know that she will love you as I do. You need not worry. All will be well."

It was the middle of December now, and Christmas was approaching soon. The snow that was falling that morning reminded her of that happy family holiday. The Gardiners used to come to Longbourn, but there would be no celebrations this year. Perhaps a few candles and some sweet things, but the parties away and at home would not happen, and all the gay times of singing and laughter would be dispensed with in favor of black gloves and solemn faces. It would be weeks yet before her family would visit outside their home. It had been weeks since she had been inside her home, and according to both her parents, she would never be inside of it again. If only she had died and not Jane, none of this would be happening. Yes, her family would observe a mourning time for her, but all of the discord in her family would never have occurred. Jane would have been there to love them all through it. She would have been able to talk sensibly to Papa, calm Mama and encourage and love the younger girls with gentle and infinite patience. Why must she live with the pain of her own death without the blessing of death's insensibility? There would be no celebration this year, or in any year to come. Jane had taken that with her to the grave.

Christmas day was an awkward affair at Netherfield. Bingley wanted to put on a happy face, for he loved this time of year, with its gifts, family, and good cheer. Nothing better than a cold evening spent near a large fire in conversation after a filling dinner, he thought. And even though his Jane was gone, he wanted it to be a pleasant time for Darcy and Miss Darcy. They were a family and had every right to happiness while under his roof. And then there was Miss Bennet. She was in mourning. It was absolutely necessary to make proper allowances for her, to be respectful. Indeed, he thought more of her than of anyone else, for she alone could understand what he felt. By now, he and Jane would have been formally engaged and all the Bennets would have been his guests this evening, laughing and dancing. He would have borne with ease Mrs. Bennet's voice and manners. Until the day Jane came to Netherfield, he had thought she was only looking out for the interests of her daughters, although in a rather crude way. But now, he had better not say what he thought, even though the edge had come off of the pain somewhat. At least he did not cry like he used to do, though this was no comfort to him. In some ways, he felt unfaithful to Jane by not shedding a tear every time he thought of her, and he thought of her nearly all of the time.

It had been over a month since Jane had died. If a woman could be allowed to look beautiful in mourning attire, Darcy believed Elizabeth did. He also thought that it was not an advantage to Elizabeth for her to remain so close to her family. She could not be prevailed upon to walk anywhere beyond the pleasure grounds of Netherfield. She would not go into the park. She would not go into the countryside around Meryton at all, and in fact, had not been to Meryton once since the day she returned to pick up her new mourning gowns. In all of this, Darcy saw a concerted effort at avoiding any possible meeting with her family; he felt that she considered herself a prisoner at Netherfield, and he determined to speak to Bingley about it. Elizabeth should be invited somewhere else, where she would have freedom to move about, yet retain her privacy. And that place was Pemberley. He decided to speak with Bingley directly.

Darcy knew he could find Bingley about the billiard table at this time of day, so he went there first in search of him. He was there. Darcy closed the door behind him as he entered the room.

"Bingley, I would like to extend an invitation to you to come to Pemberley with me."

"Thank you, Darcy, I did not know you had any thoughts of returning to Pemberley before the winter."

"Honestly, I did not, until very recently, but I do now. And the reason I do is Elizabeth, I mean, Miss Bennet."

"So it is Elizabeth, is it?"

"It is for me, Bingley. I do not know how she feels, and certainly it will be many months before that question can be asked." Darcy stopped speaking. He had revealed more about his feelings for Elizabeth than he had intended to. "But I am very worried about her. Though in mourning, one would expect her spirits to be recovering at least in some measure. She will not walk beyond the pleasure gardens, yet she used to walk all over the countryside. I do not think she is getting enough exercise. I think she stays so close and does so little in an effort to avoid her family. If she were away from them, away from the source of the pain and bad memories, I think she would have a chance to heal. And Bingley, I might say the same thing for you."

"And so you think that getting her to Pemberley would be the right thing for her? Is this your thought for her or do you think this would be her thought for herself?"

"Personally, I do not think she would express an opinion either way. And so I would like to extend an invitation to the whole party, including her, and have us all away to Pemberley with her joining us as a matter of course. If you do not care to join us, I will speak to her myself about coming with Georgiana and I. She can stay there comfortably with Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley, and she will be free to walk about the park and grounds as much as she wishes. When her time of deep mourning is over, Georgiana will take her into Lambton and Bakewell and I will gradually introduce her into society there. Perhaps we will travel to town later in the year. I intend to court her as much as propriety will allow. Towards the end of her year, in September, perhaps, I will ask her to be my wife and pray that she accepts me."

"Well, Darcy, you seem to have this all figured out. And what did you say that Elizabeth had to say about all of this?"

"I told you, she has said nothing, and it is inappropriate to say anything. I do not wish, nor could I ever, say or do anything to hurt or offend her. I am asking for your help in removing her from her family, and taking her to Pemberley, that is all. I suppose I should be asking for your opinion. Do you believe that this is the correct thing for me to be doing?"

"What, the great Darcy asking advice from me?"

Darcy looked at him awkwardly and with an expression on his face not a little hurt.

Bingley paused for a moment and let the feeling of guilt torture his mind before he apologized, "I am sorry, Darcy. I am very envious of you. And I am missing Jane very much. I loved her you know, just as you love Miss Elizabeth. I will not presume to know what is best for either of you, but I do agree that remaining at Netherfield is odious, for Miss Bennet as well as myself. I had intended to leave for London, but I may as well go to Pemberley. I have decided to give up the lease immediately. There is nothing for me here now except memories. I cannot imagine remaining here without Jane.

Elizabeth received a visitor the Monday after Christmas, when her father suddenly appeared at Netherfield. A servant sent her maid to her private sitting room, where she had been reading, to let her know that a gentleman was waiting for her in the drawing room. When questioned as to the identity of the gentleman, she replied, "Mr. Thomas Bennet, of Longbourn, ma'am."

Elizabeth did not immediately go down. She had not seen her father since the day Jane had died. In the way she viewed her life, the day Jane died represented a huge wall. There was her life before Jane died behind that wall, and her life after Jane died. And no matter what she did, there was no way over that wall. She was irrevocably changed, and for the worse, she thought. The last conversation she had with her father had been on the far side of that wall, when she was banished from her home. What place did this man have in her life now? Did he come to apologize? to accept her back? Of what use was she to him now, other than an embarrassment? Obviously, her mother thought Elizabeth a disgrace to the family, and Mr. Bennet did nothing about it. Elizabeth began to grow angry, and decided she would rather face him in anger than in any other way. The only thing her family had left her with was her pride. According to her mother, they were going to burn everything else.

She rose with a determined air, prayed for patience, and moved for the stairway.

Mr. Bennet was glad to be at Netherfield. He loved Elizabeth very much, and he felt nothing but guilt and anguish over his behavior concerning her. He had been forced to make a decision. His wife and three younger daughters or Elizabeth. He would much rather have Elizabeth, but the scandal that would be caused by his wife publicly denouncing him as an adulterer would forever ruin the prospects of both Elizabeth and Mary, Kitty and Lydia. He had not been unfaithful to Mrs. Bennet. He had felt no temptation on that score, but she had caught him in what could be construed as a compromising position with one of Mrs. Long's nieces. What a fool he had been. No matter what he did, he would hurt Elizabeth and she would hate him forever. But at least her reputation would not be tarnished indirectly by the indiscretions of a foolish father and a very foolish mother. He loved her too much. He would not ruin Elizabeth's future for the gratification of his pride in justifying his actions to her. Some day he may be able to tell his daughter the truth, but not until she was settled and forgotten by her mother, and by then it might be too late for him. In fact, he intended to find a bright, very young solicitor to hold a letter of explanation for Elizabeth, to be sent to her upon his death. Perhaps then, the secret could be revealed. Today, he was on an errand, and hoped, just hoped, her sorrow for Jane had not been replaced by anger for him.

Elizabeth entered the drawing room very cautiously.

"Hello, Papa."

"Elizabeth," he said walking towards her. He took her hand and kissed it gently, too timid to give her a hug or kiss her cheek. Her skin looked flushed. She was angry.

"I have brought the mourning jewelry that I promised you."

"Thank you, Papa, I am sure I will like it very much."

Elizabeth felt tears stinging her eyes. She walked right up next to her father, raised her chin to his face and cried, "Why, Papa, why?! What have I done?!" She was screaming at him. Elizabeth started hitting his chest with her fists for a moment, sobbing, until her knees gave way and she nearly collapsed to the floor, until he caught her and gently laid her down on a sofa. Between her cries he could hear her asking, "Why, why, why?"

Mr. Bennet leaned down and kissed her forehead. He stood up with tears in his own eyes. How was he ever to forgive himself for the pain he was causing his daughter? How would she ever forgive him? Somehow he would recover from Jane's death. With Elizabeth, he was losing her afresh each day.

Elizabeth was not aware that he had kissed her or of the thoughts he was meditating on. She was trying to understand why he was leaving Netherfield without her.

When Elizabeth woke up, she was in dressed in her nightclothes and in her bed. The curtains in her room were drawn and the sun was pouring in. And sitting next to her, holding her hand, was Georgiana Darcy, with an uncertain smile on her face, and the doleful appearance one gets from having been awake all night long.

"Good morning, Elizabeth, how are you feeling?"

"I have an awful headache, Georgiana, and I am very tired. How did I get dressed like this?" said Elizabeth, pointing to her nightclothes.

"I am very sorry, Elizabeth, but none of us could help but overhear your conversation with your father, nor witness its outcome on yourself. It was just too horrible." Georgiana choked back a sob, "I am so sorry," she whispered.

"Please, do not cry for me," said Elizabeth.

"You were crying so hard, we could not calm you down. We were so worried for you, Elizabeth. We sent for Mr. Jones almost immediately. By the time he got here, you were not crying so hard, and he gave you enough laudanum to put you to sleep for the rest of the night. He is coming this morning to check on you. You are not to leave your bed until he advises it. I stayed here with you last night. I felt so bad for you I was not going to leave you alone. I remember how I felt when my father died, the feeling of complete loss and abandonment. I am sure you feel something like that."

"Oh, Georgiana, you should not have done that. You should not risk your own health for some silly reason as me. Please run off to bed now and get some rest. You look so tired, how you must be suffering now."

"I will not leave you until I have heard what Mr. Jones has said, and I know that you are following his advice."

"You are too good to me, Georgiana."

"I do nothing for you that you do not deserve, Elizabeth." Georgiana remembered the two packages Mr. Bennet had brought for Elizabeth. "I put the packages your father brought for you in your dressing room, I hope you do not mind."

Elizabeth did not mind. Nor did she mind being told by Mr. Jones that she should remain in bed the rest of that day. He said she needed rest, which she agreed. When Georgiana was convinced that Elizabeth was going to remain in bed, she moved to her own room for some much needed sleep, but not until reporting, along with Mr. Jones, to Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, on the condition of the patient. The two gentlemen had been exceedingly worried about her. They had never witnessed such an outburst before, and knowing Elizabeth as they did, the fact that it came from her was a statement of the amount of frustration she felt regarding her family and the death of Jane. They had had no idea she suffered so severely. Darcy and Bingley agreed that if they had not already decided to go to Pemberley, they should certainly have decided on it by now.

The next morning, after Mr. Jones had come to give Elizabeth his permission to leave her bed and carefully resume her normal activities, she went into her dressing room, curious to see what the packages held that her father had brought for her. She knew they were mourning jewelry, but she did not know what style they would be in.

The first package contained a beautiful gold and black enamel locket, with a lock of Jane's hair curled behind glass. On the enamel were the words "IN MEMORY OF," and on the back was the inscription "Jane Bennet, 26 Nov 1811." The locket opened from the bottom with enough room for a small piece of paper or other such relic to be placed, or perhaps more hair. On the front, between the glass covering the hair and the black enamel, was a circle of gold in a twisted pattern. And on the outside edge was gold stamped with 'O's all the way around it. There was a ring at the top that a chain could fit through. It was beautiful. Jane's golden hair set against the gold and black enamel of the locket made such a striking contrast. This was truly a treasure. Her father had done well.

The second package contained a ring. It had a round face with gold on white enamel worked to form a weeping willow tree traveling up the left side of the ring, over the top and down the right side. In the center was an urn in an oval shape. The main stem of the tree was made from pieces of Jane's hair. The whole face of the ring was covered in glass. The shank of the ring was engraved with, "Jane Bennet, 26 Nov 1811". The ring itself was made of gold. Elizabeth tried the ring on her right ring finger. It fit perfectly. While she was in deep mourning, she could not wear this jewelry, but she would be very glad for it when she could. She was very pleased to have pieces of Jane's hair, something of hers that would be lasting. Hair lasts forever.

Netherfield, Monday, January 6th

Dear Father,

This note is to let you know that I will be leaving Netherfield today and traveling to Pemberley, where my stay will be of some duration. Mr. Darcy tells me that Pemberley is a grand estate with a large park with many paths for me to wander and lose my way in. I will be grateful for the privacy. I have not walked far while at Netherfield for fear of an accidental meeting with a member of my family. I fear I suffer somewhat from the lack of exercise. We leave today without plans for returning. Mr. Bingley is to give up the lease on Netherfield. He wants nothing more to do with it. All it provides for him is fond memories of Jane which, he says, are almost too overpowering to live with and yet remain happy.

I remain your affectionate daughter, EB

The Netherfield party, now the Pemberley party, arrived home the first Tuesday in January, after spending one night on the road. To Elizabeth, who had never traveled beyond the trip to London to her aunt Gardiner's, it was an exciting adventure. She and Georgiana shared a room at the inn. They had such fun together, talking about their childhood, the friends they had and the pranks they had played. Georgiana was particularly entertained by Elizabeth who, it turns out, was a rather precocious child and got into perhaps a little more trouble than she ought. It was a night of more giggles than sleeping, though this alteration in nighttime behavior may have been healthier for both of them. Elizabeth, or rather, Lizzy, as Georgiana now called her, had not had such a relaxing time since Jane had died, and Georgie finally had a friend.

Chapter 9

Posted on Sunday, 22 September 2002

Darcy had arranged the seating in the carriage the young ladies were sharing so that Elizabeth sat on the left side, facing forward. This would give her the best view of the prospect of Pemberley as they progressed through the Pemberley Woods and came down the valley opposite the house. Elizabeth was in awe of the beauty. Even though the trees were bare at this time of year, she could feel the grandeur of this place, and knew that to be the mistress of Pemberley would be something magnificent indeed. She wondered if she would ever know her.

Darcy had the coaches stop when they drew over the hill and the house came into view. He was going to allow Elizabeth time to take it all in. For her, it was a breath-taking view. The sun was low in the sky, and the light reflected a golden glow off the windows of the stately Jacobean building. The grounds had been landscaped by Lancelot "Capability" Brown, so there was not any ornamentation or false adornment to ruin the natural beauty of a stream that grew into a body of more significance towards the far end of the house. It was all tastefully done and Elizabeth had never seen a place she liked as well. And this, she thought, was to be her home, perhaps until December, when she would find employment as a governess, and no longer be a burden to anybody but herself.

About a week after they arrived at Pemberley it began to snow. It was a gentle snowfall with only a small accumulation blanketing the grounds in white. From an upper window Elizabeth could see the tracks of deer and rabbits in the snow as they made their way across the park. The next day, Georgiana came to Elizabeth's sitting room for a visit.

"Lizzy, how would you feel about a walk in the snow?"

"Georgie, you are daring. What would your brother say?

"I do not intend to tell him. If he does ask, I will say it was your fault," she teased.

"Trying to get me in trouble and we have not been here two weeks yet. I would love a walk in the snow."

The ladies bundled up and went out the door. Darcy was working in his study with his steward and so they were able to slip past him without his knowledge.

"Lizzy, how do you like it here at Pemberley?"

"I like it very well. It is a beautiful home, and so large. I am afraid I will lose my way in all the passageways. The grounds are beautiful. I eagerly wait spring when I can walk about them more comfortably. I am also glad to be away from my family. I felt so inhibited, so confined at Netherfield. Are you able to spend much time here, Georgie?"

"I am glad you like it, Lizzy. I am here about half the year. I would say that my primary residence is in London. A piano master comes to the townhouse almost daily to supervise my education on the pianoforte, and Mrs. Annesley is a much stricter schoolmaster while in town. I do enjoy the break, though. I am very pleased that you are here, Lizzy. My brother is very kind, almost like a father to me, but it is not the same as having a young woman with whom to spend time talking."

"Your brother seems to love you very much. This must be a great comfort to you."

"He takes such good care of me. I imagine the pressure of managing Pemberley and caring for a younger sister must be a great weight on his shoulders, he being such a young man. I love him dearly for it. I am convinced that there is not one thing he would not do for me. He is so kind, too kind, sometimes, more than I deserve." Elizabeth brushed her hand along a bush and gathered some snow in her hand.

"I am sure you do deserve it. An ideal elder brother, then. I am jealous, for I have no brothers, just four sisters," reflected Elizabeth.

"I should have liked to have had a sister." Georgiana paused for a moment, wondering how she would ever get along without Elizabeth. "I am so glad you are here, Lizzy."

As this was spoken, their short circuit was complete and they returned into the house.

It seemed to be a long night. Georgiana could not sleep. Every time she started to drift off, she saw George Wickham in her mind's eye and was overcome by the feelings of abandonment, insecurity, and sorrow associated with him, but she was determined not to spend the night like that. Instead, she put on her robe and went to the library in search of any kind of book to read. She was not quite sure what. Perhaps it did not matter.

Elizabeth was similarly disturbed. While she was tired and managed to fall asleep easily, she was constantly awakened by images of Jane dying and all the feelings that she had felt at the time. Elizabeth cried and cried and knew she could not endure another night like that again. It was late, so she decided it would be quiet in the house. She would go to the library in search of something to keep her mind off of her troubles. She hardly knew what that would be, but perhaps something may catch her eye.

Mr. Darcy was working late in his study. It was one of those frustrating nights when he had more estate business than he wanted and he was distracted from it because of Elizabeth. He was so glad she was here. The thought of not seeing her every day would be insupportable, 'not to be borne,' as his aunt Catherine might say. He had written to his aunt telling her that Elizabeth was here. Lady Catherine had become so furious, assuming he was going to marry her, that she told him that all connection between them was severed until he got rid of that "country hussy" and married Anne like he had been born and bred to do. The library was not far from his study, and he thought he heard voices coming from it, but was not sure, so he paid it no attention.

"Lizzy!" Georgiana was startled, and panting, said, "Oh my, you scared me, I thought I was quite alone here."

"Georgie, I am so sorry. I could not sleep well. I came to search for a book."

"As have I." She hesitated for a moment and looked down at the floor, "Lizzy, can I talk to you about something very personal?" Georgiana was still breathing hard. "I feel I would like to tell you, but I do not want to impose on you."

"Of course you can. You can tell me anything."

Georgiana walked Elizabeth to a sofa where they sat down. During this walk, Georgiana had started to tear up. Elizabeth noticed her glossy eyes but decided to remain silent and allow Georgiana to begin the conversation.

"Lizzy, I did something awful last summer. I hurt my brother very much." Georgiana started to cry. Speaking through her tears, she said, "I persuaded myself that I was in love with a man named Mr. Wickham. He was a childhood friend of my brother. Mr. Wickham used to play with and amuse me when I was a child. He was very nice and told me he loved me. I thought I loved him, and we wanted to be married. He was very secretive, though. He did not want my brother to know we were to be married; he wanted to elope. He told me my brother did not really like him anymore and would not give his consent, but if we eloped, then it did not matter. And I believed him."

Georgiana broke down into sobs. Her whole body was shaking. Elizabeth sat close to Georgiana and held her close, but she seemed to be beyond comfort. Her crying was filled with doubt, regret and guilt that had been mounting inside of her for months.

"He told me he loved me..."

"And I believed him..."

By now she was nearly screaming.

"I hurt my brother so much..."

Elizabeth rocked her like she would an upset infant, speaking soothing words to her, stroking her hair. The poor girl had no mother. Who could really comfort her at such a time? Elizabeth felt so inadequate. She understood the feeling of devastation. Suddenly, the door opened and Mr. Darcy loomed in the shadow of a candle he held. He began to walk towards the sofa until arrested in his progress by a glance and a nod from Elizabeth. Their eyes connected. Darcy had heard enough to know Georgiana was talking about Wickham. And now Elizabeth was telling him, with her eyes, that she would take care of Georgiana and that it was not his place, not now. Now it was his turn to trust. What would he do? His sister, his girl, was nearly screaming over Wickham, hanging on Elizabeth, and he was to leave the room and trust Elizabeth? He laughed to himself. He knew he would trust Elizabeth with his life, why not with his sister? He gave her a slight affirming nod and quietly left the room.

Georgiana had quieted down some. She still held tightly to Elizabeth, who returned her embrace.

"My brother called on me unexpectedly before we were to leave for Scotland. I knew Wickham was upset. I knew he did not want me to see my brother, but I loved him, how could I not? My brother asked what I was doing with Wickham. I had to tell him everything. I ruined everything with Wickham." She pulled back from Elizabeth and sat next to her on the sofa. She leaned her head on Elizabeth's shoulder and held her hand in both of hers.

"My brother said that if I were to leave with Wickham, that I would be unhappy, that he would not treat me well. He told me that Wickham was only interested in my dowry. Did you know that it is thirty thousand pounds? I hate it. I cannot marry where I want. I only found out then from my brother that if I were to marry without my brother's consent, he does not have to give my husband my dowry until I turn 30 years old. What is worse is that my brother is not my sole guardian. I have a cousin that must give his consent if my brother refused his.. They neither of them would approve of Wickham. I went to Wickham at his lodgings, alone, and told him of my brother's refusal. I knew he had expected it, but why should that have mattered? We had decided we would marry anyway. He seemed nervous when I told him about my cousin. His name is Colonel Fitzwilliam. When I told Wickham about my dowry, he was shocked. He did not say a word to me for full five minutes. He looked at me very strangely. I was so afraid, like I had done something wrong."

Georgiana started to cry again. Her heart seemed broken. What a tender heart she had.

"I told him, 'I will not go back to my brother's home or to Mrs. Younge's. Let us be off to Scotland tonight, this very moment.'"

Georgiana continued, "He just looked at me, and then he started to laugh. He laughed so hard he had tears in his eyes. Lizzy, he was laughing at me. I started to cry."

"He said, 'Little girl, do you really think I care for you for any reason other than your money? And since it appears that I cannot have your money for many years, what use do I have of you?'"

"I told him that we loved each other, that is why. He started laughing again. 'Love you? Love the sister of my greatest enemy? Who do you think you are?' And with those words, he bowed to me and walked out of the room. I have not seen him since."

"Oh, Georgie, I am so sorry. I do not know what to say. You are a very kind, gentle young lady. Your heart will heal. It was horrible for him to use you so. It is just lucky, I suppose, that you found out before you were married to him. How awful it would have been to be bound to him when all he thought of was your money. If he hates your brother, how could he ever truly love you? All he did was deceive you. You are not to blame." Elizabeth was thoughtful for a moment, struggling for words. "I am sure you must feel great pressure from having such a dowry."

"I know my father meant well leaving me so much money so that I could marry well. But to marry equally as to fortunate often rules out the ability to marry equally as to love. I am sure all will work out well. I know I disappointed my brother very much, which I hate the thought of. What about you, Lizzy? Shall you marry?"

"I can almost laugh. I have no dowry at all. I used to have but fifty pounds a year after my parents pass away, but I have been cut off from even that. I will only marry for the deepest love, and any man who would take me for nothing must be crazy, and I could never love a crazy man. When I leave your family once my mourning is over, I shall become a governess to a gentleman's family and end out my days shifting for myself in the world."

"Must you leave? You need not. I should like to have a companion with me. Mrs. Annesley is very kind, but I cannot speak to her as I do to you. If you must go somewhere and teach, please stay with me and teach me. Please do not leave me. I know that my brother would not like you to leave."

"You are very kind, Georgie, but I do not want to be a burden on anyone. I do not want to be dependent on anyone."

"You cannot possibly be a burden on us. You must consider it, I beg you."

"I will, Georgie. Now, I think you should get to bed. Do you think you can sleep? I will come and sit with you tonight."

"No, Lizzy, I will be fine. Thank you." And Georgiana went up to her room, with perhaps a lighter heart than she had carried with her for many months. Elizabeth quickly followed her, not wanting to see Mr. Darcy, going up to her room with a heart a little heavier than usual, feeling very bad for Georgiana, wondering how much evil could possibly exist in the world.

Life for Elizabeth in February and March seemed to be something to be passed in the music room. While she had no heart for singing, she would play. Indeed, it was the only distraction a cold winter day afforded if one was tired of needlework or reading. Elizabeth had never practiced as she ought to have. As a result, she did not know many pieces by heart, and having left all of her sheet music at Longbourn, she had the discouraging task of starting afresh learning new songs from Georgiana's extensive library of music. At least she was not lacking in choices. Mozart was all the rage, but Elizabeth chose Hayden, her sister Mary's favorite, but unlike Mary, could find nothing that would please her. No wonder Mozart was the favorite, his songs seemed to make the most sense. He died at such a young age. What else could he have accomplished? What else could Jane have accomplished? Georgiana seemed to favor The Marriage of Figaro. To Elizabeth, Don Giovanni seemed more appropriate.

The easiest occupation for Elizabeth seemed to be listening to Georgiana play. She was less shy with Elizabeth and would sing for her now. Georgiana could play for hours without needing a piece of music. Her style was so eloquent, her movements at the instrument so graceful. Watching her was just as much a pleasure as listening to her, and it was not long before Elizabeth had company. At first, he would stand outside the door so he would not be seen, for if he was, Georgiana would become embarrassed and leave the instrument. So he would listen from a distance. Everyday he would come and stand, after breakfast, while she played, and Elizabeth would watch him lean against the wall. After a week of this, it appeared on a particular day that Georgiana was especially involved in her music and would not seem to notice an intrusion, so he quietly walked to the nearest chair and sat down, not moving, breathing, or even looking at her, fearful of bringing notice to himself. Georgiana continued her song, and remained at the instrument awhile longer.

Before she could stand up, Elizabeth spoke to her, afraid his sudden appearance may frighten her. "Georgie, Mr. Bingley enjoyed your performance very much." Elizabeth glanced at Bingley, willing him to silence.

"Mr. Bingley?"

"Yes, he joined us while you were playing, see?"

"Oh! Mr. Bingley." Georgiana colored. "I do not usually play much for other people."

"Yes, but you know me tolerably well, I must not be a total stranger to you, that it would not be uncomfortable to play to me, would it?"

"Well..." she had to pause. She did look uncomfortable. What could she say? "I ... I suppose not, Mr. Bingley. I hope I did not play too poorly, sir."

"No, indeed, you played beautifully. Thank you for allowing me to stay. Please do continue," said Mr. Bingley.

:"No, I thank you, but I believe I have played enough for today." She gave Elizabeth a sort of crooked smile and walked out of the room.

"Very good, Mr. Bingley," said Elizabeth in a conspiratorial tone. "Our shy girl may yet come out of her shell."

From then on Bingley was welcome when Georgiana chose to play, and as she did not play any less than before, Bingley spent more and more time in the music room than he was wont to do in the past.

In the middle of the month, Darcy approached Elizabeth,

"Miss Bennet, I know that sufficient time has passed now in your mourning that it would be appropriate for you to go into company again. It is my desire to introduce you to some of my acquaintances in the neighborhood of Pemberley and Lambton at a dinner party that Georgiana would be hostess of. How do you feel about such a plan?"

"Well, I..."

"Would you feel comfortable attending such an affair? The invitation list would include perhaps 24 people, nothing too large, or yet too intimate. It all depends on your feelings on the matter. We will not do anything which you are not comfortable with."

"Mr. Darcy, you are very kind, but you should not allow me to determine whether you would have a party at your home," she said nervously.

"We had hoped to introduce you into society hereabouts. So indeed it does concern you. Please be honest with me. What are your feelings on the subject?"

"I had not thought to do anything while in mourning, but it is now acceptable, I suppose, for me to go into company. Though I must admit I am nervous about meeting your friends. I am just a country girl with no connections, being allowed to remain at your home by your own graciousness. I do not know if I feel equal to the task."

"Miss Bennet, in this case, you have excellent connections: you have Georgiana and I. We shall see to it that you are well met, introduced as our friend and guest. And please let me reassure you that it is a pleasure to have you in our home. Georgiana and I both value your friendship very much and are pleased that you are here. You are very welcome to be here, and I do not know how to thank you enough for all of the attention you have given to Georgiana, in helping her overcome her shyness, in loving her, in being her friend, in giving back to her the life that seemed to be lost when our father died. I do not know what we would have done without you," he turned his head away, blushing in a most becoming way at that expression of her importance to him. But it was true, and he wanted her, needed her to feel welcome and comfortable at Pemberley.

"Well, Mr. Darcy, I appreciate your kind words very much. You must know I would be destitute without your assistance."

"Please say nothing of that, Miss Bennet. Regardless of your circumstances, we would be honored to have you with us. Indeed, Georgiana and I would have come to Longbourn and stolen you away and brought you with us had you remained there under the happiest of conditions." He said smiling.

Elizabeth could not help but laugh at this picture of Mr. Darcy and Georgiana rushing into Longbourn with swords and pistols to take her away to Pemberley. Knowing what she knew now, all that she would have needed was Jane to make it perfect.

Chapter 10

Posted on Wednesday, 25 September 2002

"Mr. Darcy, I would love to come to your party."

After dinner, Darcy was able to tell Georgiana the news that Miss Bennet was willing to have the dinner party. Georgiana asked if she could use this as her first time for making all the arrangements herself. Darcy agreed, as long as she checked with him along the way. He wanted everything to be perfect for Miss Bennet. They decided that they would hold the party on Thursday, March 26th.

Georgiana enlisted Elizabeth's help immediately, much to the latter's satisfaction. Elizabeth still suffered through bouts of melancholy over Jane's death. She could appear cheerful at most times, but usually, she did not feel cheerful, and being confined indoors due to wet, cold and snowy weather did nothing to improve her spirits. Helping Georgiana with the dinner party would be a welcome relief, however trifling it may seem.

The invitation list would include Lord and Lady Beecham of Hillcock Manor and their son, a principal landholder in the neighborhood, second to Pemberley; Dr. and Mrs. Southwood, the rector of the Lambton church; Mr. and Mrs. John Bemmerton of Filmore; Mr. David Tuesby, second son of the Earl of Ingleford and many more names that Elizabeth could not remember, as she lay in bed that night willing herself to sleep. Oh yes, and of course Mr. Bingley. Dinner would be at 7:00 P.M. and everyone was invited to come any time after 6:00 P.M. Elizabeth yawned. Because of the weather, Mrs. Reynolds was asked to prepare rooms for each of the guests, in case traveling appeared to be too difficult. This fact was included on the invitation. Every hospitality was extended to these guests to encourage them to come.

"Lizzy, I have drawn up a map of the table for the two courses, assuming we can convince Cook to provide twenty five dishes. I have tried to limit the number of 'removes' so that the servants do not always have to be running in and out."

"If you must know, Georgie, I do not always like soup, and am glad when they bring the fish."

"Lizzy, we have to have soup at a dinner party! How could we not?"

"Well, I shall not have any."

"Do as you will," Georgiana laughed. "I do not know why they can call all of these other dishes corner dishes when there are only four corners on a table."

"That is one of the advantages of being a cook. You get to know all of the culinary secrets. Maybe we can peek into the kitchen one day and look over her shoulder and find out what really goes on in there," Elizabeth teased.

Georgiana was laughing. "You are going to get me in trouble, Lizzy. My brother said I could handle the details of this party but you keep making me laugh. I am going to forget something."

"I am sorry. I cannot help it. But I do agree with you: there are only four corners on a table." The girls burst into laughter again. Just then, Mr. Darcy walked into the drawing room, where they had been working, if that is what you would call it. The ladies would afterwards say they tried their very best to be serious, but it just did not work. They looked at him, then each other, and more peels of laughter rang through the house. Darcy just smiled at them and went to the library. He left the door ajar, though. He loved the sound of Elizabeth's laughter, which was such a rare treat.

Georgiana and Elizabeth finally got back to work. The first course would contain meat and game, sauces, vegetables and perhaps a sweet pudding. Following the first course, the table would be completely relaid by the servants with the guests present. The second course was lighter than the first, and would include several main dishes of meat and fish, but with a greater variety of puddings, creams and tarts.

The ladies decided on the following dishes*:

*Menu from a dinner provided for Prince William of Gloucester by the Dean of Canterbury in 1798, and attended by Cassandra Austen.

The day of the dinner party arrived, and everything was in preparation. Georgiana had seen to it all with Mr. Darcy's approval, and Elizabeth had been Georgiana's faithful assistant. Cook reported that all was proceeding on schedule and that no catastrophes were expected. It was a beautiful day outside, though the ground was wet. And while Elizabeth could not walk about, at least she could sit for a few minutes and feel the sun. She had enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the past two weeks getting ready for the dinner party tonight. Elizabeth was going to miss it, for once it was over, she would be left with nothing to interrupt her thoughts of Jane and her family.

The mood of the house was one of anticipation, like a sun dawning on a spring day. Mrs. Reynolds moved through each room like a general commanding an army as new smells curled through the house from the kitchen. Pemberley had not seen preparations like these in a long time. The Darcys had not entertained since the late Mr. Darcy had passed away.

Elizabeth and Georgiana went up to dress at 4:00 P.M., and Elizabeth was down again before 5:00 P.M. She knew that Georgiana would be longer, as she always was on dressy occasions. Since no guests were expected until 6:00 P.M., Elizabeth went into the relative privacy of the drawing room and sat down to her work. It was nice to be still and quiet. Getting everything ready had taken up a good part of the day. This party was the grandest affair Elizabeth had ever been involved with, let alone attended. Her mother's parties had never been this large. There was not enough room at Longbourn to hold all of these people. A larger number than those invited tonight could easily be entertained at Pemberley. Even now, servants were passing back and forth past the door with too much frequency for her taste. She had not seen Mr. Darcy or Mr. Bingley all day.

Her reverie was suddenly broken in on by a servant.

"Excuse me, ma'am. May I present Mr. David Tuesby." The servant turned and left.

Mr. Tuesby was tall, though not quite as tall as Mr. Darcy. He had light colored hair and deep blue eyes. He was well built and very handsome. Though a gentleman, his hands looked strong and did not appear unused to work. He was immaculately dressed, not a fold, not a crease out of place. He held his chin high. Depending on how he spoke, Elizabeth thought, she would judge him to be proud. It was too early for the dinner guests to be here. Where was Mr. Darcy? Why was Mr. Tuesby in here with her?

"I am Mr. David Tuesby, ma'am," said he, with a formal bow, "your humble servant, at your service. And you are...?"

"...Miss Elizabeth Bennet, sir," said she, with a deep curtsey.

"I am here by way of invitation for the dinner, Miss Bennet. Because of the distance I must travel, and the uncertainty of the roads today, I am unfortunately, no let me say that again, I am fortunately," he said looking Elizabeth up then down and back again "arrived very early, and so am to have the pleasure of your company."

"I do not know where Mr. Darcy is, sir, he should be here to greet you."

"Darcy? No matter about him. Tell me all about you."

"There is not much to say," she said meekly. She did not like Mr. Tuesby, but would be patient with him. Mr. Darcy would be here shortly, and then she could leave the room.

"Well then, I shall say it. You are young, unmarried, beautiful, wear lavender fragrances, have the darkest of dark, piercing eyes, are not from Derbyshire, have not long been in this house, and Darcy should go to the devil for hiding you from me."

Elizabeth was quite shocked and embarrassed. She sat back down to her work and said nothing. Perhaps he has had too much drink. But so early in the day? Oh, where is Mr. Darcy?

Mr. David Tuesby took to pacing the drawing room, like a predator toying with his prey. Every time he approached Elizabeth he stared at her with unblinking eyes that made her skin itch. She felt naked before him. She sunk back into her chair as far as she could, her eyes pleading with the door for anyone to enter the room.

"Miss Bennet, I see that you are in mourning. A father or a mother?"

"My sister."

"I am sorry. Death seems to find satisfaction in whomever it finds. Was she young?"

"Yes. In the bloom of her life."

"No doubt Death disappointed some young man, then. Well, everybody must learn to face it. My mother, my brother and both sisters are dead. Everyone in my family is so dead, I consider myself lucky to be alive." He laughed at what he thought was a joke.

Elizabeth was becoming ill. He would not take his eyes off of her. She was afraid of him. 'How is it possible to be all alone in a house so full of people. Where is Georgiana?' she thought.

"So, how do you like being here with Darcy?"

His tone of voice seemed to imply that she had an intimate, inappropriate relationship with Mr. Darcy that revolted her. How dare he be so personal with her!

"I am the guest of Miss Darcy and Mrs. Annesley."

"What is the difference? But do not worry, Darcy is the gentleman just the same. We were in school together, Darcy and I, and he got me out of a couple scrapes, if you know what I mean, but not Darcy. Always the gentleman. The ladies loved him, too. He could have had..., well, anyway."

Tuesby sat next to Elizabeth on the sofa she occupied. She cringed and leaned against the arm.

"I have always considered Mr. Darcy to be the perfect gentleman, Mr. Tuesby."

Still no one came to the room. The clock said 5:35 P.M., it was yet some time before the others would arrive. Where was Mr. Darcy? Mr. Tuesby smelled of port wine. Maybe she could get away.

"You must excuse me, Mr. Tuesby." Elizabeth set her work aside and made to stand.

"No, Miss Bennet, Elizabeth, please do not go." Tuesby quickly grabbed her arm and forced her back onto the sofa.

"Mr. Tuesby! You are hurting me! Please, sir! Release me, I must go!" She struggled against him but he held on to her more tightly.

"Elizabeth, please settle down and talk to me. I feel like I have known you my whole life. I know there is a connection between us if you would listen to your heart. Look at me, Elizabeth, look at me."

Elizabeth would not answer, but closed her eyes and turned her head away. He was hurting her arm and she was scared. Her eyes were stinging from the tears in them.

"Elizabeth, if you will just let me ..."

Elizabeth started crying. "No, no, no ..."

With his other hand he grasped the back of her neck and pulled her head towards him and kissed her harshly, bruising her lips. When he pulled back from her he said,

"Do not fight me Eliz..."

"NO!" Elizabeth screamed.

"You do not understand, I need you."

"Don't touch me, don't touch me!" She could taste him, the stale wine. She wanted to vomit.

He started to squeeze her neck. It hurt so badly, she started seeing white light around the edge of her eyes. He kissed her again, and the last thing she remembered before she fell helpless across his lap was somewhere, in the back of her mind, a bolt of lightening and a crash of thunder that sounded like someone yelling "TUESBY!"

Almost everyone heard it. It sounded like someone had died.

'NO!'

Elizabeth! Darcy recalled he had not seen her all day. Everyone had been so busy with the party. He ran to the drawing room and in the door. There, on the far sofa, was David Tuesby and Elizabeth. He had one hand on her arm, which he appeared to be holding, and another and on her neck, which he was also grasping, and he was kissing her, which she was struggling against - for just a moment - then she collapsed on his lap.

"TUESBY!"

Tuesby was startled by Darcy, but kept his hold on Elizabeth. "What do you want?" he asked bitterly.

Darcy was moving towards them when Tuesby suddenly stood up and threw Elizabeth to the floor as if she were a doll. She fell without a sound.

Bingley and a servant had just reached the room. Darcy picked up Elizabeth and walked carefully towards the door. As he passed Bingley he said, "Keep him in here, do not let him leave."

Bingley did not quite know what was going on, but there was no mistaking the look in Darcy's eye or the tone of his voice.

As Darcy was heading towards the stairway with Elizabeth, Georgiana was on her way down.

"Fitzwilliam! What happened to Elizabeth?" she cried.

"Come with me to her bedchamber." Georgiana preceded him. She opened the door and led him in with a candle, where he laid Elizabeth down on her bed.

"Call for her maid and Mrs. Reynolds. Have Mr. Edwards, the apothecary, sent for immediately."

Georgiana went in search of a footman to send on the errand, dispatched him and came back to Darcy.

"What happened, brother?"

"I heard a scream while in the library, just a moment ago. It was Elizabeth, I just knew it. I went into the drawing room, and that monster, David Tuesby, had his hands on her and was forcing her to kiss him. As I yelled to him Elizabeth collapsed in his arms. As I approached him he threw her on the floor and stood up to face me. I went to her, and carried her here."

"Oh, Lizzy! Brother, has she said anything, has she opened her eyes?"

"No, she has not moved. He had a strong hold on her arm and her neck. You must attend to her. I have to remove Tuesby from the house and see to our guests who will be here at any moment now. I will send up Mr. Edwards when he arrives."

"Please send up some warm water so I may wash her."

"Yes, of course. Please send me word after Mr. Edwards leaves."

"Tuesby, you appear to me, by both sight and smell, to be drunk. It is beyond my belief that you can come into my home and assault my guest in such a manner. Of what are you thinking?"

"I feel as if I have known Elizabeth all my life."

"You may refer to her as Miss Bennet, Tuesby."

"Darcy, I feel I have known Miss Bennet all my life. I feel we are destined for each other. She would not listen to me. She would not look at me."

Darcy's heart stopped. What had he done wrong that she was left alone with this man? How is it that she could not be safe in his house? Pemberley was supposed to be a sanctuary for her from her family, from her grief, a place for her to recover from Jane's death, not a place to be further hurt and insulted. Who knew what other damage might come from this evening?

"If you felt so strongly about her, why did you hurt her?"

"Hurt her?"

"Yes, you were gripping her neck so hard she collapsed on your lap, after you forced yourself on her. And then you threw her on the floor. Are these the actions of a man who feels deeply for a woman?"

"I would never hurt her. I love her."

"You hurt her. And if you have hurt her severely, you will be hearing from me again. I have called for your carriage. Get out of my house."

The rest of Darcy's guests were polite enough that if they had heard of what happened before they arrived, they said nothing of it. And Mrs. Reynolds was so efficient, that three places were removed from the table without much notice, so it did not appear as if Miss Bennet, Miss Darcy or Mr. Tuesby were missing. Because no one was expecting a Miss Bennet, Darcy had only to make excuses for his sister, who had suddenly become ill just that afternoon and was confined to her room. Mr. Edwards had been called for and would probably arrive during dinner, but they should not be alarmed.

Normally, Georgiana would have been shocked into immobility, unable to do anything, but here was Elizabeth, physically and emotionally hurt. She had not moved from the position she and her maid had left Elizabeth after changing her into loose fitting nightclothes. She had not made a sound, either. Georgiana could not tell if she was sleeping or just unconscious. She knew she was breathing, lightly but steadily, and her heart was beating slowly but firmly. She had the beginnings of a bruise on her arm where he had been holding her. Her lips were swollen and looked sore. There were red marks on her neck where he had squeezed her. She took a soft towel and washed her mouth with the warm water until she could not smell the wine from Mr. Tuesby any longer.

To Georgiana this was awful. If this had happened to Elizabeth, after being in his company just a few minutes, what risk had she allowed herself to be at with Wickham? What would he have done to her, especially after getting her dowry? Her brother had probably saved her life. How was she ever to trust anyone? How would Elizabeth ever trust anyone? Life was so uncertain, and people like Mr. Tuesby made it almost unbearable at times. Oh, where was Mr. Edwards? Elizabeth's maid looked scared. She was about Georgiana's age. Georgiana went to her, sat next to her, took her hand, and they waited together until there was a knock at the door.

Georgiana went and opened the door.

"Good evening, Miss Darcy. It is a pleasure to see you again. I am sorry to be here under such circumstances. I saw Mr. Darcy in the hall. He explained to me a little of what happened to Miss Bennet. Please tell me all that you know."

"Thank you for coming to quickly, Mr. Edwards. My brother carried her here. Her maid and I changed her into nightclothes. Her arm, where he was holding her, appears to have a bruise on it, her lips are swollen, and there are red marks on the back of her neck. She does not appear injured otherwise. He did throw her onto the floor, my brother said, so I do not know if she is hurt and it is not visible."

"Has she moved herself or spoken?"

"No, sir."

"I will examine her."

While Mr. Edwards was examining her neck, Elizabeth woke up with a groan. Georgiana jumped and ran to the bedside and gently rubbed her cheek.

"Oh Lizzy, please wake up, please talk to me."

"Georgie," Elizabeth whispered, "is he gone?"

"Yes, Fitzwilliam has sent him away. You shall never see him again."

Elizabeth sighed in relief. Never had she been afraid of someone before, but she was afraid of Mr. Tuesby.

"Did Mr. Darcy..." Elizabeth was too embarrassed to say anything.

"What Lizzy?"

"I must talk to your brother."

"He is at the party."

"The party? Oh, I forgot. You must go down, they are expecting you, please go." Elizabeth was sounding upset.

"No Lizzy. My brother made my excuses. He asked me to stay with you."

Elizabeth felt a tear roll down her cheek. "Your brother is so kind. I do not deserve it."

"Of course you do."

"No I do not. I feel so dirty. What did I do wrong? Why did he hurt me?"

Mr. Edwards interrupted. "Miss Darcy, I will return again tomorrow. She seems to be doing much better, and I am in the way now. Good evening."

"Thank you, Mr. Edwards." He saw himself out and shut the door.

"Lizzy, you did nothing wrong. None of it is your fault. He was drunk. He was trying to control you and hurt you. Why? I do not know, other than to say that you were at hand, and had I been there in the drawing room, it would have been me, not you. It is my fault, you know, I should have come downstairs when you were ready, I should never had left you alone. How was I to know?" Georgiana started to cry. "I must send a note to my brother."

Continued In Next Section