Section I, Next Section
Part 1
February 1865
Elizabeth sighed and pushed back a lock of her dark hair before returning to the soldier she was tending. He was a Confederate officer, and she a Yankee nurse, but that was no matter. None of the doctors or nurses at this camp could leave a man to die when they could save him.
This officer had been unconscious when he was brought in, and was only now coming to. "Please ma'am," he said, struggling to sit up. "Am I in the hands of friends or enemies?" His Virginian accent came through clearly because of his distress.
"Friends, of course. Now lie still. And before you ask: yes, you will live; yes, you'll be in one piece; and yes, your men are being cared for, as many as we found."
The officer sat back with a chuckle. "Now how did you know I was going to ask that?"
Elizabeth smiled. That accent of his was so familiar. "Every man wants the first two answers, and every officer the third." Further down the row of makeshift beds a weary voice called for a nurse.
She rose. "I have to go help him. You lie here and try to sleep some more. If you need me, just call."
Before she could leave his bedside, the officer caught her hand and kissed it with true Southern charm. "Thank you, ma'am."
During the night, Elizabeth woke and decided to make the rounds of her patients and make sure they were all well. Besides, she wanted to see that officer again. She'd been too busy during most of the day to go back to him, and there was something distressingly familiar about him. She wanted to know what.
He was sitting in his bed, looking longingly at the outside, his profile etched sharply against the silvery moonlight. Elizabeth gasped softly as she realized who he was.
She stepped further back into the shadows. Of all the people to meet in this war, he was the last she'd expected. She closed her eyes. She could still remember their first meeting...
Part 2
March 4, 1861
"Jane, Elizabeth, are you ready yet?" Mr. Bennet called as he headed the door of their home. "We will be late if you don't hurry."
"Coming, Father!" they called back in unison. When they reached the foot of the stairs, Mrs. Bennet was already there.
"I do not see why you are taking our girls to this inauguration. It is not as though any of the men will be thinking of them. It will be all speeches and politics and - "
"That is why you do not have to come," Mr. Bennet interjected smoothly. "But Jane and Elizabeth have expressed an interest in the event, so I am quite happy to take them."
Mrs. Bennet continued to fuss as they put on the coats. "Be careful not to get wet or catch a chill, girls, for it would not do to be ill for this evening's ball. Oh the weather here is so bad for you!"
Each girl kissed her mother's cheek as they went out the door to the carriage. "Out of there at last," Elizabeth thought.
As the carriage wound its way to the Capitol building, where the inauguration of the new President would be held, Elizabeth reflected on her mother's words.
While the Bennets were not very rich, Mr. Bennet's status with Congress and the natural charm and talents of Jane and Elizabeth made them - and their three younger sisters - more than eligible matches. Jane especially needed not worry over marriage, as she was the loveliest of the five.
But there was no convincing Mrs. Bennet of all that, and as they had now reached the Capitol, Elizabeth put the matter out of her mind to concentrate on the event soon to take place before her.
Mr. Bennet found them quite good seats, so Elizabeth could see clearly as Vice President Hamlin was sworn in, then as Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth President of the United States, received the oath of office. Then he began his inaugural address.
"Fellow citizens of the United States: in compliance with a custom as old as the government itself, I appear before you to address you briefly and to take, in your presence, the oath prescribed by the Constitution of the United States, to be taken by the President 'before he enters on the execution of his office.' . . .
"Apprehension seems to exist among the people of the Southern States that by the accession of a Republican administration their property and their peace and personal security are to be endangered. There has never been any reasonable cause for such apprehension. Indeed, the most ample evidence to the contrary has all the while existed and been open to their inspection. It is found in nearly all the published speeches of him who now addresses you. I do but quote from one of those speeches when I declare that 'I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so.' . . .
"I hold that, in contemplation of universal law and of the Constitution, the Union of these States is perpetual. Perpetuity is implied, if not expressed, in the fundamental law of all national governments. It is safe to assert that no government proper ever had a provision in its organic law for its own termination. Continue to execute all the express provisions of our National Constitution, and the Union will endure forever--it being impossible to destroy it except by some action not provided for in the instrument itself. . .
"Physically speaking, we cannot separate. We cannot remove our respective sections from each other, nor build an impassable wall between them. A husband and wife may be divorced, and go out of the presence and beyond the reach of each other; but the different parts of our country cannot do this. They cannot but remain face to face, and intercourse, either amicable or hostile, must continue between them. . . .
"The government will not assail YOU. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. YOU have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the government, while _I_ shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend it.
"I am loathe to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."
Thunderous applause echoed around the room. "Well, Elizabeth?" Mr. Bennet said.
"Well, Father," she replied with a smile. "It was very grand, and that was an inspiring speech. Thank you for bringing us."
"I am glad you liked it. Unfortunately, we cannot stay. Your mother, you understand." He offered them each an arm and began walking through the crowds outside to their carriage.
Then someone called, "Mr. Bennet!" They turned to see two young men walking quickly to catch up to them.
"So you made it after all," the younger one said. "We'd hoped you would, as there is something we would like to discuss with you - Oh, forgive me, ladies."
Elizabeth was hard pressed not to laugh at the innocent expression of dismay on the young man's face as he realized his faux pas.
"Jane, Elizabeth," Mr. Bennet said formally. "May I present Mr. Charles Bingley of North Carolina, and Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Virginia. Bingley, Darcy, my daughters Jane and Elizabeth."
The sisters curtseyed slightly as Mr. Bingley said, "It is a pleasure to meet you both." Mr. Darcy only nodded.
"May we walk with you back to you carriage?" Mr. Bingley asked. "I wouldn't want to keep your daughters standing while we talk."
Mr. Bennet acceded to this request, and Mr. Bingley immediately offer Jane his arm. She took it, blushing prettily, while Mr. Bennet walked on Mr. Bingley's other side.
That left Elizabeth to Mr. Darcy, who offered his arm with that charm only found in true Southern gentlemen. As she took his arm, Elizabeth remarked, "Didn't you also wish to speak to my father, Mr. Darcy?"
"It is of no immediate matter, Miss Bennet. Charles knows my questions and, if the opportunity presents itself, will ask them. If not, I will ask myself at a later date."
They walked in silence from then until they reached the carriage. Mr. Darcy handed Elizabeth in, and Mr. Bennet shut the door.
"Tell your mother I'll be home later, Elizabeth. I've found I have some business to see to immediately."
The sisters were left alone as the carriage drove away.
Author's Note on accents: Mr. Bennet, Jane and Elizabeth speak with light New Jersey accents, since that is where they lived before Washington, D.C.. Mr. Bingley and Darcy speak with light accents from their respective states. All five speak like well-educated people. Unlike some characters still to be met...
Part 3
Evening of March 4, 1861
The Bennets came into the ballroom of the White House in a clump. Jane and Elizabeth came in on Mr. Bennet's arms while Lydia and Kitty walked with Mrs. Bennet. Mary alone had declined the invitation, as she preferred staying at home and reading.
Kitty and Lydia immediately rushed off to watch some handsome officers, but the others politely stayed in the receiving line. After what seemed like ages, they finally reached the front.
"Mr. Bennet, how good to see you!" a feminine voice exclaimed.
"And you, Mrs. Lincoln, as always." Elizabeth looked up from the ground to see her father kiss an elegant woman's cheek, then shake hands warmly with a very tall gentleman who looked very familiar... "Now, Mr. President, Mrs. Lincoln, allow me to present my wife Francine and my two eldest daughters Jane and Elizabeth."
Fortunately for everyone's peace of mind, Mrs. Bennet was too much in awe to do anything but bow politely. Jane, too, managed only to be polite, but Mrs. Lincoln immediately began talking to her as if they were old friends. Consequently, Elizabeth was left to bear the President's scrutiny all on her own.
"So, Miss Bennet," he said, "your father tells me you're interested in politics."
"Why, yes," she stuttered. "I am a bit."
"Perhaps sometime we might convince you to come visit a session of Congress, so you could see first hand how lawmaking works."
"It would be my pleasure and my honor, Mr. President." Elizabeth was stunned. To be invited to witness a session of Congress by the President himself!
"I shall look forward to seeing you. Now, if you will excuse me, I will return you to your father's care and see to the rest of my guests."
As he moved off, Elizabeth stared in shock for a moment. That was something she could never have imagined. "When did you meet the President?" she asked her father.
"Oh, some years ago," Mr. Bennet replied, rather pleased. "It was when he first served in Congress. We've kept in touch since then."
Elizabeth said nothing more as they reached the place where Mrs. Bennet and Jane were standing and chatting with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy.
"There you are!" Mrs. Bennet said cheerfully. "We've been waiting for you."
"How good of you," Mr. Bennet replied dryly.
The musicians began to play a waltz, and Mr. Bingley extended a hand to Jane. "Miss Bennet, if you would favor me with this dance?"
"Of course, sir." He led her out to the dance floor.
Mrs. Bennet turned to Mr. Darcy. "And you, sir? Have you come ready to dance, as your friend has?"
Elizabeth groaned mentally. Did her mother ever not say something rude?
"I rarely dance," Mr. Darcy replied.
"Well, let this be one of the occasions then."
Mr. Darcy looked at Elizabeth. "If Miss Bennet will consent to be my partner, I will do just that."
"I would like that very much, sir." She set her hand in his and let him lead her to the dance floor.
The waltz was not one of Elizabeth's favorite dances because she had to stand so very close to her partner. But tonight, she found, she didn't mind it so much. Mr. Darcy was a very skilled partner, and they moved smoothly around the floor together.
"I understand from your father that you have an interest in politics, Miss Bennet."
Elizabeth surprised herself by saying, "Is that all he ever tells people?"
Mr. Darcy smiled at her. "I'm sure he doesn't mean it to upset you. He seems very pleased and proud that his daughter thinks of something besides officers and fashion."
"Well, I suppose there is that," she conceded. "Yes, Mr. Darcy, I am interested in politics."
"I should introduce you to my sister, Georgianna. She, too, is interested in politics, but I'm afraid those women nearest her discourage that interest."
"I would like to meet your sister."
The music ended, and Mr. Darcy led Elizabeth back to her family. "Until next time, Miss Bennet," he promised, bowing over her hand.
Author's note: In regards to the accents of Mrs. Bennet, Kitty and Lydia: all three want to sound elegant so they all try and sound Southern, despite being from New Jersey. Imagine the worst "Southern belle" accent you can, then double it.
Part 4
March 5, 1861
The morning after the ball, Elizabeth was up early, despite the late hours that everyone had kept. Truthfully, she hadn't slept much. She just kept going over the sequence of events with Mr. Darcy. By eight o'clock in the morning, she gave up on sleep and got up.
She went downstairs. The house was quiet. Not surprising, since her family was still asleep.
"Oh, Miss Elizabeth," one of the maids said. "This morning's paper is waiting for you in the dining room, and your breakfast will be ready whenever you are."
"Thank you, Sarah. I think I will wait for breakfast until Miss Jane comes down."
Elizabeth sat down to read the paper. Normally that was how she started her day, but rarely did the activity bother her as it did today. The rumors of war upset her.
Sometime later, the rest of the Bennets began to get up. Not that Elizabeth saw them. But she heard them.
"Oh, my poor head! Hill, fetch my breakfast."
"Mama, say that I may stay in bed. Mary says it is slovenly, but I am tired."
"Lydia, can you not see that your poor sister is in pain? Must you make so much noise?"
"But Mama! What about Mary?"
"Tell Mary to be quiet and keep her opinions to herself. Oh, my head, my nerves!"
A moment later Jane came into the dining room and shut the door behind her. "That," she said as she took the seat opposite Elizabeth, "is the only reason I shall be glad to marry and have a home of my own."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow at the normally mild Jane's words, but declined to comment.
"Well, perhaps that was an exaggeration, but all that noise!" Having now vented her frustrations, Jane began eating the breakfast set before them. "What are you reading, Elizabeth?"
"The Post. There's an article about - "
The door opened, and Mr. Bennet walked in. "Good morning, Jane, good morning, Elizabeth."
"Good morning, Father," they replied in chorus.
"It's a comfort that at least one of my children pays attention to the world," he remarked, noting the paper beside Elizabeth. "What news this morning?"
She pushed the paper over to him so the headline was clearly visible: Experts Predict War.
"It says the President's speech was tantamount to a declaration of war. Do you think that's right?" Elizabeth asked her father.
Mr. Bennet pondered that. "I can't say, Elizabeth. The President doesn't want war, I know, but the Union is important too. Important enough, in his mind, to fight for."
Just then a servant came in the room carrying two bouquets. "Excuse me, but these just came for Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth."
Elizabeth took hers. It was all roses, the softest, palest, pink roses she'd ever seen. "Where," she wondered softly, "does one get roses in Washington in March?"
The card with the roses was written in a fine, flowing hand and read: Thank you for last night's waltz. Fitzwilliam Darcy
Part 5
Posted on Wednesday, 17 June 1998
Later that morning, when everyone was up and about, the previous evening's ball was discussed.
"... Then I danced with another officer. I think he was a Captain or something," Lydia finished with a giggle.
Elizabeth rolled her eyes at Jane tolerantly. Lydia's silly behavior was a source of some amusement to her as long as she didn't go too far.
"And that charming man danced with Jane all evening," Mrs. Bennet exclaimed. "And even Elizabeth had one good partner."
Jane and Elizabeth exchanged a look. They had chosen not to tell their mother about the flowers that had come earlier. She had a tendency to over-react and would consider them halfway to engaged.
"Who was that woman you were talking to, Jane?" Elizabeth asked suddenly. "The tall, proud one."
"That was Caroline Bingley, Charles' sister. She's not proud at all. I found her very agreeable. She has just come this past week to keep house for him."
"It is good that you get along with her. A girl should always get along with her husband's family," Mrs. Bennet said reflectively.
"Mama! I have only known Mr. Bingley one day. It is much too soon to be even considering that."
One of the maids came into the room. "Excuse me, but this letter just came for Miss Jane."
Jane took the letter and read it. "It is from Caroline Bingley. She writes that she would like to get to know me better, so I am invited to tea this afternoon."
Mrs. Bennet was practically beside herself with joy. "Tea with the Bingleys! Oh, Jane, this will be your chance to get to know him better and find out what he likes."
"Mr. Bingley will not be there, Mama. He and Mr. Darcy are dining with some Senators this evening and won't be home til late. Father," Jane continued, turning to Mr. Bennet, "may I take the carriage?"
"No, that is quite impossible," Mrs. Bennet interrupted. "Kitty, Lydia and I will need it when we got out. You can use the open carriage. It wouldn't seat three and besides, it looks like rain."
"Mother!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "Jane will be wet through when she reaches the Bingleys' residence."
"Don't be silly, Elizabeth. Of course she won't. But if it rains, they won't send her home, and she'll have to spend the night."
Part 6
Posted on Tuesday, 23 June 1998
Accordingly, the open carriage was called for, and Jane went off. Elizabeth stayed by the window to watch her. Five minutes later, it began to rain.
"Elizabeth, get away from there! What will people think?"
She moved grudgingly. "I hope Jane made it to the Bingleys' before the rain started."
"Of course she did! It isn't that far." Mrs. Bennet was pleased with the success of her plan. Jane would marry Bingley, then she would turn to getting Elizabeth married. Maybe that nice young man from the ball. What was his name...? Darcy or some such.
Around eight o'clock that evening, a letter arrived addressed to Elizabeth.
Dear Elizabeth,I'm writing this to you because I know you will understand where Mama wouldn't. I did get wet from the rain, and I'm afraid I caught something of a chill. It's not serious! But the Bingleys have extended their hospitality to me until I am well enough to return home. I shall be well in a few days, I am sure. They are all very kind to me. The only thing I miss right now is you, dearest sister.
Jane
"Well, Mama?" Elizabeth said as she read part of the letter aloud.
"Well nothing, Miss Elizabeth. This is perfect. She'll be there for several days, and she will certainly get to know Bingley by the end of her stay."
"But what if she is really ill?"
"It's a chill, Elizabeth. How serious do you think it can be? No, she'll be fine, and everything will work out beautifully."
The next morning at breakfast, another letter arrived, again addressed to Elizabeth. This one was from Mr. Bingley, to assure her that Jane was being cared for properly and his hopes that Jane would be well very soon.
"That is it," Elizabeth said, rising. "I'm going to see Jane."
"You'll do no such thing, Miss. You'll only be in the way. Besides, there is no way for you to get over there."
"Mama, I won't be in the way, and I'll walk over there. It's not so far."
"I shall be humiliated," Mrs. Bennet exclaimed. "Oh my poor nerves. You will be filthy when you arrive, and then what will they say?"
"Frankly, Mama, I don't care. I'm far more concerned about Jane than what some people we barely know will say about it. That's final."
Part 7
Posted on Thursday, 25 June 1998
Elizabeth, true to her word, set out for the Bingley residence right after breakfast. She had not foreseen how truly muddy the streets would be, but no matter; it wasn't far.
When she reached the house, she was suitably impressed. It was a lovely house, nicer than the Bennets' townhouse, though not as grand as the one they had up North.
Mr. Darcy was just arriving on horseback when she walked up. "Miss Bennet!"
"Mr. Darcy."
He dismounted and handed his reins to a groom. "What brings you here so early, Miss Bennet?"
"I've come to inquire after my sister. I hope I won't be intruding."
"Not at all," he hastened to assure her. "Let me take you to her."
True to his word, Mr. Darcy escorted her directly to the room Jane was in. Then he left them alone, promising to send up some breakfast for them both.
"How are you, Jane," Elizabeth asked as she took of her hat and cloak. "You don't look well."
"Everything is well, now that you are here, " Jane replied wearily.
"Rest now, Jane. You need to gather your strength," Elizabeth ordered, trying to keep the worry from her voice. This was not like Jane, and Elizabeth was worried.
Jane fell asleep almost immediately, and Elizabeth went downstairs to see Mr. Bingley. She found him, along with Mr. Darcy and two women whom he introduced as his sisters, in the dining room having breakfast.
"Forgive me. I did not wish to intrude."
"You're not intruding, Miss Bennet. Please, how is your sister?" Mr. Bingley asked.
Elizabeth frowned a little. "She isn't as well as she'd like me to think. I'm afraid she might be very ill."
"Then you must stay here," Mr. Bingley said decisively. "I'll send someone to your house to let them know."
"You are too kind, sir. Thank you." She paused to look at Mr. Darcy, who seemed almost pleased that she would be staying there. "Forgive me, I should go back to my sister."
When she had left the room, Caroline Bingley immediately set on her. "Did you see her, Louisa? Her hair was a mess."
"And her dress. Six inches deep in mud, I'm sure," Louisa exclaimed. "Shocking."
"That's what comes with these Northern girls." Caroline's tone left no doubt in anyone's mind as to the intended insult.
"I didn't notice any of that," Mr. Bingley said. "I saw a young woman who was genuinely concerned about her sister."
The sisters rolled their eyes at each other. "And you, Mr. Darcy?" Caroline asked. "I'm sure you noticed."
"Actually, I didn't. I noticed only that her eyes were exceptionally bright with exercise and that her color was up. If you'll excuse me," he said with a bow. He left, leaving Mr. Bingley to think about more ways to make his guests comfortable and Caroline to stare after him in amazement. That wasn't the answer she'd been hoping for.
Part 8
Posted on Tuesday, 7 July 1998
In the evening, at Jane's urging, Elizabeth joined the Bingleys after dinner. Mr. Bingley and his sisters, along with Louisa's husband Mr. Hurst, were engaged in a card game, so Elizabeth decided to read.
Mr. Darcy joined them several minutes later. His eyes first sought Elizabeth, and when he saw her reading, he smiled, sat down at the nearby desk, and began writing busily.
Eventually, Caroline looked up from the card game. "Why, Mister Darcy!" she exclaimed. "I didn't hear you come in. Why didn't you say anything?"
"I had no wish to disturb anyone," he replied coolly.
"What are you doing now?"
"I am writing a letter to my sister."
"Oh, dear Georgianna! How is she? Is she making plans for her debut?"
"She is quite well, and yes, plans for her debut are well underway. It is set for the beginning of June, if nothing happens to delay it." The tone of his voice discouraged any more questions.
Caroline took the hint and abruptly changed topics. "Miss Bennet, do come and play with us. The game is always so much more fun when there are more players."
"I'm afraid I don't know the game," Elizabeth confessed. "Besides, I am enjoying what I am reading."
"You prefer reading to cards?" Louisa asked incredulously.
"Oh, Elizabeth Bennet is a great reader," Caroline said snidely. "She takes pleasure in nothing else but politics."
"Forgive me, but I don't deserve that," Elizabeth replied. "I take pleasure in many things."
"Such as dancing," Mr. Darcy interjected softly.
Elizabeth looked at him with surprise, and a small blush spread across her features. "Yes, Mr. Darcy. I do enjoy dancing."
"And you are quite an accomplished dancer," he added, his voice dropping another level.
"Only because I had an accomplished partner," she replied pertly. She rose and went to sit beside him. "Tell me about your sister, please."
He smiled. "Georgianna is a young woman of sixteen. She's about your height, but she is blond, whereas you are dark. She is sweet, but she lacks confidence in herself. And those around her," his gaze shifted to Caroline, "do not encourage her to be herself."
"Shall I be able to make her acquaintance, do you think?"
"I hope so. That is the principal reason for my letter: to invite her to Washington. I would like to introduce her to you as soon as may be arranged."
"I look forward to it, sir."
There was a long pause before Darcy continued. "Miss Bennet, perhaps it is a touch forward of me, but would you care to go for a drive with me tomorrow? The weather should be clear."
"If my sister is well enough that I can leave her for that long, it would be my pleasure."
Part 9
Posted on Friday, 10 July 1998
March 7, 1861
The next morning, Elizabeth checked on Jane. Her temperature was down, but she was still a bit weak.
"I am much better, Elizabeth. We can go home today."
Elizabeth shook her head as she looked through the few clothes she had. "No. We'd better stay until tomorrow at least."
"Are you going driving with Mr. Darcy this morning?" Jane asked.
"I had thought to. Would you rather I stay here with you?"
"No, Elizabeth. Go and enjoy yourself. I will be quite well here. Wear the green dress. It's the most flattering to your coloring."
Elizabeth looked over at her sister. "Am I trying to impress Mr. Darcy, then?"
"No. He's already impressed." Jane smiled. "Who could not be? You're lovely, intelligent, charming, kind..."
"Enough, Jane. I'm not half that good, but thank you." Elizabeth slid into the green dress. "Do you think you can button the back? I can't reach the middle buttons."
As Jane buttoned them, she cautioned Elizabeth. "Be careful what you say. Charles told me that Mr. Darcy has a somewhat biting temper, and whatever you do, don't talk about politics. You will never agree with Mr. Darcy."
"Yes, Jane. No, Jane," Elizabeth dutifully replied.
"Have a good time, dear," Jane said calmly.
Mr. Darcy waited somewhat impatiently in the front hall of the Bingleys' house. He was looking forward to his drive with Elizabeth, but he didn't know what he would say to her. He wasn't very good at talking, except when it came to politics, and Charles had already warned him off that subject.
He turned as he heard footsteps on the stairs. Elizabeth was coming down, dressed in green the color of new leaves. His breath caught in his throat. She was even more beautiful than before.
Part 10
Posted on Thursday, 16 July 1998
"Miss Bennet. You look... lovely."
"Thank you, Mr. Darcy." She let him help her on with her coat. Then he offered her his arm, which she took, to lead her out to the carriage. He helped her in, then climbed in the other side.
Skillfully he directed the horses to the park. He didn't know what to say, but he felt he ought to.
"My but this is awkward," Elizabeth said suddenly.
"What is, Miss Bennet?" Darcy asked in surprise.
"This." She gestured with one hand to indicate the drive and the two of them. "Here we sit, silent as stone. Yet you asked me to drive, and I accepted readily. So one would think we would attempt to enjoy the other's company."
"One cannot enjoy a person's company in silence?"
"It is not that kind of silence, Mr. Darcy. It was a very awkward silence."
"Indeed it was. I'm afraid I did not know what to say to such a lovely lady as you, Miss Bennet."
Elizabeth paused before replying. She was not sure if that was a genuine compliment, or just the famous Southern charm. "I'm afraid you have the wrong 'Miss Bennet' for those kind of compliments, sir."
"If you say so, Miss Bennet. I would never contradict a lady."
She laughed. "Thank you, Mr. Darcy, for both compliments." He smiled at her. Elizabeth smiled back. She found herself liking Mr. Darcy, even though she barely knew him. She remembered Jane saying how Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley had dined with some senators the evening she first went to the Bingleys', and to make conversation, she asked, "Tell me, sir, if you will, why were you dining with the senators the evening before yesterday? Business or pleasure?"
"A bit of both, Miss Bennet, though much more business than pleasure, I'm afraid."
"And what did you discuss, if it isn't secret?" she asked teasingly.
Darcy paused before answering. "What every person in Washington is discussing, Miss Bennet. The secession of the southern-most states," he replied seriously.
Elizabeth, too, dropped the playful air she'd had. "If I'm not being bold, why were you there? You aren't in Congress."
"No, I'm not. But the senators seem to think that Charles and I both can offer insights that they themselves might miss. Or, at least, that's what they say."
"And what conclusions did you reach?"
"That the possibility of war is very high. And that Virginia, North Carolina and the rest of the southern slave states will be reluctant to join in a war against their own."
"They wouldn't disobey the President's order!" she gasped.
Darcy shrugged slightly. "I don't know, and I said as much that night. There's a slim possibility they might secede as well."
"And you, sir? How do you feel?"
"Miss Bennet, I would be lying if I said I wanted Virginia to secede. The Union is the best country in the world, and it's good for everyone to be here. But if the Union tries to abolish slavery, the rest of the South will almost certainly rebel."
"And you with it?" she asked, a hint of acid in her voice.
"Please, Miss Bennet, don't put words in my mouth." He turned the horses back. "It's time we were returning," he observed.
The way back, they were as silent as they had been going, neither wanting to continue the conversation, but yet not knowing what else to say. When they reached the Bingley house, Elizabeth let Mr. Darcy help her down from the carriage. Her cheeks were red, but she hurried up to Jane's room before Mr. Darcy could inquire about it.
Part 11
Posted Tuesday, 21-Jul-98
Mr. Bingley was sitting with Jane when Elizabeth went upstairs. He took one look at her flushed cheeks and turned to Jane. "Excuse me, Jane. I think I should be going. I hope you will feel up to joining us for supper?"
"Of course, Charles. I look forward to supper." She smiled at him. He left, shutting the door firmly behind him. "Sit down, Elizabeth. What happened?"
"I should have listened to you, Jane."
"Please say you didn't talk about politics."
"I wish I could." Elizabeth recounted the whole story. "What now, Jane? I like Mr. Darcy."
"You might try apologizing. It sounds to me like you were in the wrong," Jane replied reflectively.
Elizabeth paused. She had been wrong to jump on his statement like that without thinking. It hurt her pride to admit she was wrong, but it was true. "At dinner," she promised herself.
Darcy sat back, playing with his glass. He'd been rather abrupt with Miss Bennet, and he owed her an apology for it. She'd hit on a nerve, though, and he'd responded without thinking.
He set the glass down, picked up his pen and tried again to finish his letter to Georgianna. Thoughts of Elizabeth kept intruding. He could see her blushing at his compliments, could see her with her eyes sparkling with laughter.
He wondered suddenly how she would look if he tried to woo her.
Dinner began rather strained. Some arrangement had put Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy next to each other, and the tension between them affected the rest of the table. Even Caroline noticed it.
When Jane and Mr. Bingley began a conversation and the whole table's attention was no longer on her, Elizabeth leaned over to Mr. Darcy. "I owe you an apology for my behavior earlier. I was wrong to say such things to you. I am sorry."
"On the contrary, Miss Bennet. The fault is mine. I should not have taken your comments to heart that way. I beg your pardon for that."
Elizabeth smiled. "Since we both think we are at fault, shall we not call it even and forget all about it?"
"That is a very good idea, Miss Bennet."
Part 12
That evening, they gathered around the parlor again. The difference from the previous night was, of course, Jane's presence, but also that Darcy made no secret of his preference for Elizabeth's company.
The two of them sat together on one side of the room, embroiled in a discussion over the merits of Tennyson as compared to Browning. The subject had come up during dinner and had just naturally carried over. By unspoken consent, they avoided politics.
Jane and Mr. Bingley sat by the fireplace, where a fire burned against the chill. What they talked about is not important; their conversation was constantly interrupted by Mr. Bingley's solicitous questions about Jane's health.
Caroline, annoyed by Mr. Darcy's attention to Elizabeth, had picked up a book in an effort to get his notice. Not given to the work of understanding what she'd picked up - a collection of Emerson's essays - she quickly became frustrated with that.
Seeing that Mr. Darcy would only watch her if she were with Elizabeth, Caroline went over there. She was sure the comparison would be to her advantage. "Miss Elizabeth, do take a turn with me. It's so refreshing."
Elizabeth stopped mid-sentence to look at Caroline. A walk around the room was not her idea of refreshing. But the way Mr. Darcy looked at her clearly said, "Humor her. She is our hostess." So all she said was, "Why, yes, of course."
Caroline looped her arm through Elizabeth's and they crossed the room. As they returned to their starting place, Caroline said, "Mr. Darcy, why don't you join us?"
"That would defeat the purpose."
"How so, sir?"
"Why, either you are in each other's confidence and wish to share secrets." His look at Elizabeth said how unlikely he considered that possibility. "Or you know your figures are best displayed when walking. Either way, I am best where I am."
"Oooh, Mr. Darcy! What a thing to say!" Caroline exclaimed. But Elizabeth only smiled. "Do you not think so, Miss Elizabeth?"
"I think Mr. Darcy speaks only as he finds. I am sorry he thinks the latter of us, but it is true that that is what many young ladies would do."
"You are very hard on your sex," Caroline remonstrated.
"Like Mr. Darcy, I speak as I find." Elizabeth's tone was light and unconcerned, but the words were none the less serious.
Fortunately, she was spared Caroline's catty response by Jane calling her, wishing to retire.
When the sisters had left, Caroline began abusing Elizabeth. "Elizabeth Bennet is one of those young ladies who seek to recommend themselves to the other sex by criticizing their own, and I suppose it succeeds with the sort of men she is accustomed too. But, in my opinion, it is a pathetic and very mean attempt."
"Undoubtedly," replied Mr. Darcy, to whom this remark was chiefly addressed, "there is meanness in all the arts which ladies sometimes condescend to employ for captivation. But as I doubt that Miss Bennet's object was captivation, this does not apply to her."
Caroline was not so entirely satisfied with this reply as to wish to continue the subject.
Upstairs, while Jane and Elizabeth prepared for bed, they discussed the members of the household.
"He is everything a young man ought to be. He is sensible, lively, good-natured, and I never saw such happy manners - so much ease, with such perfect good breeding!"
"He is also handsome," replied Elizabeth, "which a young man ought to be, if he possibly can. Well, he certainly is very agreeable, and I give you leave to like him. You have liked many a stupider person."
"Oh, Elizabeth!" Jane laughed. "But what about Mr. Darcy? I noticed you and he spent quite a lot of time in conversation tonight."
"I think Mr. Darcy is kind, good, and very intelligent. I think I like him very much."
Part 13
March 8, 1861
The next morning, the Bennet sisters went home, to their mother's disgust. She had counted on them staying at least until the end of the week, and made no bones about telling them so. But before that, they actually needed to leave the Bingley residence.
Mr. Bingley ordered his carriage for them for "as soon as they were ready." But so many things came up before they could be ready.
They needed to eat breakfast. Then Mr. Bingley asked three times if Jane truly thought she was well enough to go home; he would be quite happy to invite her to stay if she felt ill. He was afraid the weather was chilly; would she be quite warm enough in the carriage with only her cloak? The seats in the carriage were not cushioned enough; they needed wait until more could be fetched.
Through it all, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy sat out of the way talking. "Miss Bennet, might I - that is, would you be offended - may I call on you sometime?"
Elizabeth blushed a little. "Of course, Mr. Darcy. You are always welcome." The smile she gave him gave proof to her words.
"May I also beg a favor of you?" At her nod, he requested, "If you would, I would ask you not to call me 'Mr. Darcy' anymore."
"What shall I call you then, sir?" she asked pertly.
"My name is Fitzwilliam, and you may use that, if you choose, or some variation of it."
Again, she blushed. While not unaccustomed to calling people by their first names, it was a mark of intimacy she hadn't expected Mr. Darcy to offer.
Jane called to her then, sparing her the necessity of a reply. "Elizabeth, come! Father will be expecting us."
Mr. Darcy handed Elizabeth into the carriage and kissed her hand before he shut the door. Before the carriage drove away, Elizabeth said softly, "My name is Elizabeth... Fitzwilliam."
Mrs. Bennet was very angry with them for coming home so early. "You should have stayed longer. Another two or three days would have been no trouble."
"But, Mama - " Jane protested.
"No buts. Well, it is all over and done now, and I dare say there is nothing to be done about it," Mrs. Bennet replied, with all the airs of a martyr. "Oh, my poor nerves."
Part 14
March 11, 1861
Now, the Bennet family was not rich. But they did have a very nice home in Trenton, which was where all five girls had been born, as well as their house in Washington. Unfortunately, the girls could inherit neither of these properties, a fact that did not set well with Mrs. Bennet. Instead, upon Mr. Bennet's death, the two properties would fall to a cousin, Mr. Collins. The sisters would still inherit their share of Mr. Bennet's small fortune, but what was that without a home?
It happened that at breakfast, a few days after Jane and Elizabeth had returned from the Bingley residence, Mr. Bennet happened to address his wife with, "I hope you have ordered a good dinner, my dear."
"Oh, why should I have? Who could be coming? And if you say Charlotte Lucas, I do not see why we should order anything unusual for her." Charlotte Lucas was Elizabeth's best friend - outside of Jane - and she dined frequently with the Bennets.
"I was speaking of a gentleman, a person I have never met before in all my life."
Everyone stared around the table, their thought written plain on their faces. Who could it be? Mr. Bennet enjoyed their puzzlement greatly. It was rare for him to surprise everyone in the family.
"Then who is it, Father?" Elizabeth asked. "For you would not ask just anyone to dine with us."
"I will tell you, Elizabeth. But to tell you, I shall have to read the following letter to you. I received it nearly a month ago, and, as I discovered it was of some import, I answered it a fortnight ago."
"But who is the letter from?" Lydia demanded.
"Patience is a virtue, sister," Mary rebuked. "It would well become you to cultivate it."
"Well," Mr. Bennet said, clearing his throat. "The letter is from my cousin, Mr. Collins, who, when I am dead, will be able to turn you out of this house as soon as pleases him."
"Oh, I wish you would not discuss that horrid man! Why could he have written to you? Why could he not have kept quarreling with you as his father did?"
"My dear Mrs. Bennet, if you will wait patiently, all will be explained." So saying, he began to read.
Hunsford, near Raleigh, North CarolinaFebruary 12, 1861
Dear Sir,
The disagreement between yourself and my late honored father always gave me much uneasiness, and since I have had the misfortune to lose him I have frequently wished to heal the breach. For some time I was kept back by my own doubts, fearing lest it seem disrespectful to his memory for me to be on good terms with anyone with whom it had always pleased him to be at variance. My mind, however, is now made up on the subject, for having received ordination at Christmas, I have been so fortunate as to be distinguished by the patronage of the Right Honorable Mrs. Catherine de Bourgh, widow of Colonel Lewis de Bourgh, whose bounty and beneficence has preferred me to the valuable rectory of this parish, where it shall be my earnest endeavor to demean myself with grateful respect towards Mrs. de Bourgh, and be ever ready to perform those rites and ceremonies which are instituted by the Church of England. As a clergyman, moreover, I feel it my duty to promote and establish the blessing of peace in all families within the reach of my influence; and on these grounds I flatter myself that my present overtures of good-will are highly commendable, and that the circumstance of my being next in the entail of Longbourn estate will be kindly overlooked on your side, and not lead you to reject the offered olive branch. I cannot be otherwise than concerned at being the means of injuring your amiable daughters, and beg leave to apologize for it, as well as to assure you of my readiness to make them every possible amends, -- but of this hereafter. If you should have no objection to receive me into your house, I propose myself the satisfaction of waiting on you and your family, March 11th, by four o'clock, and shall probably trespass on your hospitality till the Saturday fortnight following, which I can do without any inconvenience, as Mrs. de Bourgh is far from objecting to my occasional absence on a Sunday, provided that some other clergyman is engaged to do the duty of the day. I remain, dear sir, with respectful compliments to your lady and daughters, your well-wisher and friend,
William Collins.
"There, you see, Mrs. Bennet?" Mr. Bennet asked as he set the letter down.
"I do not see, but if he is inclined to make our girls any amends, I shall not be the person to discourage him."
Part 15
Promptly at four o'clock, the carriage containing Mr. Collins arrived at their door, and all were assembled to greet him. Introductions were quickly made before they entered the house for tea.
During tea, Mr. Collins sat beside Mr. Bennet, with Jane and Elizabeth not far away. The sisters watched, amused, as Mr. Bennet slyly baited their cousin.
"You seem very fortunate in your patroness," Mr. Bennet observed.
"Oh, indeed! Mrs. de Bourgh is all a great lady should be! She is generous and such a considerate neighbor as well. She has even condescended to visit me in my humble abode."
"Has she any children?" Mrs. Bennet inquired. Almost against her will, she was beginning to like Mr. Collins.
"One daughter, Anne. Unfortunately, Anne is of a sickly nature, so she does not go out as befits her station. I have often remarked to Mrs. de Bourgh how this deprives the world of one of its brightest jewels." He turned to Mr. Bennet. "I have often observed how agreeable compliments of that sort are to ladies, and so make every attempt to use them."
Mr. Bennet choked back a laugh. "May I be so bold as to inquire if these compliments are composed on the spot or whether they arise from previous meditation?"
"They arise chiefly from what is passing at the moment, but I do sometimes entertain myself by composing such as can be applied to any situation."
Elizabeth could not restrain her laughter any longer. She hastily excused herself and fled to her room, where she laughed until she cried.
Jane followed her up. "Elizabeth, is anything wrong?" she asked softly.
"No, Jane. He is simply the most pompous, pretentious man I've ever met." She began laughing again. "The idea that he would 'composing such as can be applied to any situation'..." She mimicked Mr. Collins' voice so accurately that Jane too laughed.
"Oh, Elizabeth. What will we do with you?"
March 12, 1861
The next morning, Elizabeth and Jane sat outside in the garden. A shift in weather had brought warm air to them, and flowers were beginning to bloom. Jane and Elizabeth looked like flowers themselves, with their full skirts spilling around them where they sat.
Mr. Collins watched them sit and laugh together from another part of the garden. A design that had begun before now became a full-blown purpose. Mrs. Bennet joined him there.
"You have two beautiful daughters, my dear lady," he remarked to her. "Especially the eldest..."
"Yes, Jane is a sweet girl. But I feel as though I must warn you that she is very likely to be soon engaged. As for Elizabeth... I could not say if she has any prior attachments, but I think not."
"Ah," he said. His gaze moved from Jane to Elizabeth. She, though perhaps not quite as beautiful as her elder sister, was still an uncommonly lovely young woman. Yes, she was more than worthy for what he had in mind.
Part 16
Lydia and Kitty came out into the garden. "Jane, Elizabeth!"
"What is it, Lydia?" Jane asked calmly.
"We want to go and look at shops. But Father says we cannot go unless you go with us." Lydia pouted. "I cannot imagine why. It is not as though Kitty and I would do anything wrong."
Jane and Elizabeth looked at each other, and Elizabeth sighed. "Yes, Lydia. we'll go with you."
Half an hour later, they were on their way. By then the group included Mr. Collins as well as the four sisters, as he felt he could not allow them to go alone and unaccompanied.
They walked along the street, wandering mostly. Lydia and Kitty exclaimed over every shop window, making a small spectacle of themselves. Elizabeth, the obvious object of Mr. Collins' attention, tried very hard to ignore him.
Up ahead, Lydia spotted someone. "Look, Kitty. Isn't that Denny and Carter?"
"Oh, it is! Who is that with them?"
"I don't know, but he's very handsome."
Elizabeth refrained from saying that she thought the gentleman in question looked too handsome, almost unnaturally so, as the three men approached them.
Captain Carter greeted them courteously. "Miss Bennet, Miss Lydia, Miss Kitty. We were going to call on you later." The last was directed to Lydia and Kitty. "May we escort you wherever you're bound this morning?"
"Yes," Lydia said. "But only if you introduce your friend to us."
"Forgive me, ladies. May I present Mr. George Wickham? He has just joined our regiment, and we look forward to having him."
Mr. Wickham bowed politely to all the ladies, then Jane introduced Mr. Collins. They chatted politely for a while, with Kitty and Lydia obviously enjoying it. Jane and Elizabeth liked it less so, but that could simply be because they had no one to talk to, and Mr. Collins didn't count.
It was at this moment that two gentlemen rode by on horseback. "Miss Bennet!" Mr. Bingley exclaimed, reining in his horse. "We were just on our way to visit you and inquire after your health." He dismounted and moved to Jane's side where he began to talk with her in low tones that no one else could hear.
Elizabeth turned her eyes to Mr. Darcy. "Good day, Mr. Darcy."
He too dismounted. "So I am 'Mr. Darcy' again?"
"Only until you chose to speak to me. Good morning, Fitzwilliam," she replied with a smile.
"Good morning, Elizabeth. Quite a gathering here." He looked around until he saw Mr. Wickham. Then he stiffened. Wickham turned a little pale when their eyes met, then he looked away. "Yes, quite a gathering."
Elizabeth stared at him, unsure what to do. "Mr. Dar - Fitzwilliam, is something wrong?"
Darcy turned back to her. "No, Elizabeth. Everything is just fine." Taking her hand and pulling her a little away from the group, he said, "I have an invitation to extend to you. Charles is hosting a small ball at his home in a week. The formal invitation will be delivered tomorrow, but I would like to add my personal request that you come."
Elizabeth took a deep breath to steady herself. "With such an invitation, how could I refuse? Yes, I will come."
"You will? That's wonderful! Will you promise me the first waltz of the evening as well?"
"Of course." She might have said more had Lydia not called to her.
"Elizabeth, do hurry!"
Only then did Elizabeth realize everyone was waiting for her. "Will you come to dinner the day after tomorrow? I would love to have you, and I know Jane would like to have Mr. Bingley over."
"Done, and I will see you then, if not before." He kissed her hand. "Farewell, Elizabeth."
Part 17
Posted on Tuesday, 22-Sep-98
Elizabeth returned home in a bubble of happiness, not withstanding the presence of Mr. Collins. Dinner with Mr. Darcy this week and a ball next!
Oh, if only she could make the time go by with a snap of her fingers!
March 13, 1861
The day flew by for Elizabeth, who wished to get to the next evening. She did so much work that even Jane was surprised, and Mrs. Bennet (who was truly beginning to like Mr. Collins more and more) began to secretly rejoice that Elizabeth was in love. Unfortunately, Mrs. Bennet had guessed the wrong man.
Had she been asked, Elizabeth would have confessed that she did not know if she was in love or not. She would certainly have admitted to liking Fitzwilliam Darcy, more than any other man of her acquaintance, but love? That was something else entirely.
As Mr. Darcy had promised, the formal invitation to the ball did come that day. It included the entire family and Mr. Collins. Mr. Collins immediately tried to secure Elizabeth for the first dance, and she agreed, somewhat reluctantly, on the condition that the dance was not a waltz.
Flowers were also delivered to Elizabeth and to Jane, gifts from Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. Jane received roses again, but Elizabeth's were a bouquet of forget-me-nots. She read the accompanying note and smiled before tucking it away in a special box on her vanity.
That evening, the Bennets attended a small gathering the Philips. Mrs. Philips was Mrs. Bennet's sister, and the two were very close in their own peculiar way. Mr. Philips was an attorney and, as such, had some interesting acquaintances who were invited to the gathering. Among them were Lydia and Kitty's officer friends Carter and Denny. Also, Mr. Wickham.
Lydia, it was quite obvious, made it her goal to win Mr. Wickham's attention for herself. But in this she was quite unsuccessful, for Mr. Wickham attached himself to Elizabeth for the duration of the evening.
Elizabeth, for her part, was not particularly interested in having Mr. Wickham waiting on her. But as their was no real harm in it, and she had no one else, she permitted it.
Sometime later, after supper was over and the party had broken up into smaller groups for cards and such, Mr. Wickham seated himself beside Elizabeth. "Tell me," he said, "have you known Mr. Darcy long?"
Elizabeth controlled the feelings that rose at the mention of that gentleman's name long enough to answer. "Not long. Two weeks."
"I have known him all my life," Mr. Wickham said. At the expression on Elizabeth's face, he added, "I can see you are surprised. No doubt you noticed the coldness of our greeting." After a nod from her and a short pause, he asked, "Miss Bennet, may I tell you something?"
Part 18
Elizabeth nodded. "Yes," she replied courteously.
"His father, Miss Bennet, the late Mr. Darcy, was one of the best men that ever lived, and the best friend I ever had; and I can never be in company with this Mr. Darcy without being grieved to the heart by a thousand tender memories. His behavior to myself has been scandalous; but I truly believe I could forgive him anything and everything, except for his disappointing the hopes and disgracing the memory of his father."
Elizabeth refrained from commenting, even from letting her face express how doubtful she considered this information.
"We were born in the same town, Mr. Darcy and I, within the same park even. We grew up together, sharing everything alike. My father began as an attorney, but gave that up to serve the late Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy held him in high esteem, as a friend even. When my father passed away, Mr. Darcy gave him a promise of providing for me, and I am convinced it was as much to discharge the debt he felt towards my father as it was a sign of affection for me."
Mr. Wickham then began to speak on more general topics, the neighborhood, the society, seeming very highly pleased with all that he had seen.
"It was the prospect of constant and good society," he added, "which was my chief inducement to enter the military. I knew it to be a most respectable, agreeable corps, and my friend Denny tempted me farther by his account of their present quarters, and the very great attentions and excellent acquaintance Washington had procured them. Society, I own, is necessary to me. I need employment and society. A military life is not what I was intended for, but circumstances have now made it eligible. The church should have been my profession -- I was brought up for the church, and I should at this time have been in possession of a most valuable living, had it pleased the gentleman we were speaking of just now."
"Indeed?" Elizabeth inquired politely.
"Yes -- the late Mr. Darcy had intended for me the next presentation of the best living in his gift. He was my godfather, and excessively attached to me. I cannot do justice to his kindness. He meant to provide for me amply, and thought he had done it; but when the living fell, it was given elsewhere."
"Really?" Elizabeth remarked coolly, seemingly more interested in the way her skirt settled around her.
"Yes. There was just such an informality in the terms of the intention as to give me no hope from law. A man of honor could not have doubted the intention, but Mr. Darcy chose to doubt it -- or to treat it as a merely conditional recommendation, and to assert that I had forfeited all claim to it by extravagance, imprudence. Certain it is, that the living became vacant two years ago, exactly as I was of an age to hold it, and that it was given to another man; and no less certain is it, that I cannot accuse myself of having really done any thing to deserve to lose it."
It was at this moment that someone called Elizabeth from across the room, and she was obliged to go over there. Soon after, the Bennets left, and Elizabeth was not alone with Mr. Wickham again before then.
She hurried to bed without lingering to talk over the gathering with her family. She wanted to get to the next day's dinner so she could see Mr. Darcy again. And what things she had to ask him!
Part 19
March 14, 1861
Elizabeth had fluttered around so much getting ready for dinner that evening that Jane finally ordered her to sit still.
"Dear Elizabeth, you've rearranged the flower arrangement three times in the last fifteen minutes. Enough. Just sit and wait."
But that proved too much for Elizabeth. She was up and looking out the window to see if they'd come every other minute. "What if they can't come?"
"They will come."
The gentlemen did come, exactly on time. Elizabeth, who had run upstairs to put on her necklace, paused on the next-to-last step for a moment to observe. Mr. Darcy was so handsome.
Darcy looked up, hearing a rustle on the steps. She's beautiful, he thought. Without another thought, he held out his hand to her to guide her down the steps. When she was on the floor again, he brought the hand to his lips. "Good evening, Miss Bennet," he said.
"Good evening, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth replied. Seeing that everyone else had already left the foyer, she added, "Won't you follow me to the parlor?"
In the parlor, there were only two places left, together on one of the loveseats. Elizabeth cast a look at Jane; that was certainly not how their mother had planned the seating. Jane merely smiled.
The conversation flowed on around them, occasionally going in some very strange directions. But Elizabeth paid little attention to all that. Her attention was entirely focused on the man beside her.
Darcy looked at Elizabeth. He wished he could get her alone. There were so many things he wanted to say to her, to ask her. He had to know if she cared for him at all. If she did... He would cross that bridge when he came to it.
Noting that dinner wouldn't be served for another half hour at least, and that she was completely unable to concentrate on the conversation, Elizabeth rose and excused herself from the company, claiming she needed some fresh air. She was slightly disconcerted to find Mr. Darcy beside her as she left the room.
"May I join you, Miss Elizabeth?" he asked. "I am not at best in company."
Elizabeth nodded. "You may, of course, join me. But I have never seen you uneasy in company."
Darcy looked at her with half a smile. "I am only comfortable in some company."
She began blushing. Was he referring to her company? Before her blush could betray her, she led the way out to the garden. She took a seat on one bench, and Mr. Darcy sat down beside her.
There was a slight pause, then both of them began at the same time. "Mr. Darcy, may I ask - " "Miss Bennet, if it is not too forward - " They both stopped.
"You first, Miss Bennet," Mr. Darcy said politely.
Elizabeth took a breath. "Yesterday I was at my aunt and uncle's home. A man named Mr. Wickham spoke to me of you and told me a story."
Part 20
Darcy stiffened. "Go on," he said.
"He said that he had been promised an inheritance, a living specifically, by your father, and that you refused to give it to him when he came of age. According to him, there was no reason for it."
Elizabeth watched in concern as Darcy stood up and walked a few paces away. He turned around. "Is that what you think of me, Elizabeth?" he asked harshly.
"No!" She went over to him and took his hand in hers. "No, Fitzwilliam. I think much better of you than that. I merely want to know the real story, for even Mr. Wickham could not create the whole thing out of nowhere."
Mr. Darcy sighed. "All right, Elizabeth. I will tell you the truth. Mr. Wickham was a favorite of my father. And when he died, my father did express the wish that Mr. Wickham have this living when he was old enough, if I thought it suitable. But by then, I was already aware of Wickham's faults. He tends to lead a life of dissipation. When he came of age, Wickham came to me. He didn't want the living. Instead he wanted, and I gave, money.
"That was the last that I had seen of him until the summer just past. In the summer, my sister had gone to Richmond with her governess, and Wickham joined them there, obviously by pre-arrangement. He courted Georgianna, and she believed herself in love. I arrived only just in time to prevent an elopement." Darcy's voice was still bitter, though somewhat less so than at the beginning.
"So he will do almost anything to get his revenge on you," Elizabeth supplied softly. "Including trying to charm a woman you showed any interest in."
Darcy looked at her, half a smile on his face. "Yes," he replied in a more normal tone of voice. "You are quite correct, but for one thing." At the innocent question in Elizabeth's eyes, he added, "It is not just 'any interest' in you. Elizabeth - "
He bent his head down, and Elizabeth was sure he was going to kiss her. But Jane chose that moment to call. "Elizabeth, dinner is ready!"
Mr. Darcy straightened up, and, for the first and only time in her life, Elizabeth wished Jane were somewhere else.
Part 21
Elizabeth stepped back regretfully. "We should go in," she murmured, starting to turn back towards the house. Why had Jane chosen that moment to call?
As she moved away from him, Darcy caught her hand. "If I have offended you, Elizabeth, I hope you will forgive me."
She smiled back at him. "No, indeed, I am not offended at all." Far from it, she thought, but did not say.
When they returned to the house, Jane pulled Elizabeth aside. "Dear Elizabeth, what have you been doing all this time?"
"Talking," Elizabeth replied distantly. Much as she loved Jane, there were some things too sweet to tell even her.
"Well, dinner is ready to be served, and Mother is beside herself over your absence."
"And we couldn't have that," Elizabeth said dryly. Jane didn't reply, except with a look of rebuke.
Elizabeth could never remember another night when she had been so embarrassed. First, her mother.... Mrs. Bennet never stopped talking about Mr. Bingley and how glad she was to know him and how beautiful Jane was and... Jane blushed through the whole conversation.
Then there was Mr. Collins. First, he introduced himself to Mr. Darcy and told him about being minister for Mrs. de Bourgh and how wonderful she was. Elizabeth could have dropped through the floor at that. Then, Elizabeth found herself seated between Mr. Collins and Lydia. Mr. Collins never stopped comparing everything to Mrs. de Bourgh's plantation home, Rosings Park, and Lydia prattled on non-stop about the newest officers she had seen.
Mr. Darcy was seated across from Elizabeth, but he said next to nothing. At least, nothing that could count as conversation. His eyes said a great deal, mostly of his admiration for Elizabeth, but he almost never spoke. And every time Elizabeth tried to start a conversation with him, Mr. Collins broke in with Mrs. de Bourgh's opinion on that subject. Elizabeth finally gave up entirely.
When dinner was over, the gentlemen said they needed to leave; there was business that needed taking care of. Mr. Bennet, Jane and Elizabeth saw them to the door.
Mr. Bennet shook hands cordially with both of them. "I will see you both on the sixteenth, at Senator --'s home, correct?"
"Correct," Mr. Bingley replied.
"Well, then, good-bye." Mr. Bennet walked away, leaving to his daughters the job of proper farewells.
Jane and Mr. Bingley stood together talking softly while Elizabeth said good-bye to Mr. Darcy. "Good night," she said softly.
"Good night, Elizabeth," he returned. Only the presence of Jane and Bingley kept him from kissing her then and there. "I will see you on the nineteenth."
"Yes," she said. In a half-whisper, she added, "And you will be in my thoughts until then."
"And you in mine." Darcy brought her hand up and kissed it as he had before.
A discreet cough reminded them both that there were others present. Darcy let go of Elizabeth's hand with a gentle squeeze, and the gentlemen left.