Section I, Next Section

Chapter 1

Posted on Monday, 17 May 2004

"I do not know what is to become of us all, indeed, I do not!" cried Mrs. Bennet.

"Oh, Mama!" Jane crossed the room to stand by her mother who was looking out a window fronting the house. She lightly touched her shoulder.

"You can see that we are all well," soothed Jane. "Please do not make yourself uneasy."

A passing feeling of resentment washed over Mrs. Bennet. "I do not know why your father left the estate to you," she complained. "I am sure there was some mistake on someone's part."

Mrs. Bennet returned to her chair to resume her work. It had been three years now since Mr. Bennet had died, and in his will he had specifically left all of his property, including Longbourn, to his eldest daughter, Jane. It had not been left to his wife, not even for use during her lifetime. Mr. Bennet's instructions to Jane were that a home for his widow should always be provided at Longbourn.

"I would have sold the estate and got dowry money for you girls so that you could marry rich gentlemen. Just think, we could have taken a house in London, attended all the balls and parties, and in no time I would have seen you girls well settled in marriage," said Mrs. Bennet mournfully. This was her continual lament when the topic of Mr. Bennet's will was brought forward. "Now we are just as poor as before. Worse, since you are forcing us to save money, though I know not what for."

Jane was always sad to be reminded that her mother seemed to sorrow more over the married status of her daughters than the passing of her husband.

It was time for her morning walk and Elizabeth was ready to escape the house. In her hasty descent of the stairs, she nearly stumbled into Jane.

"It is beautiful today, my dear sister," said Elizabeth, "will you not join me for a walk?"

Rambling through the countryside was one of Elizabeth's dearest pleasures, which could only be improved upon by sharing it with Jane.

"Oh, Lizzy, you know I would like to join you, but I must see to all the accounts today," answered Jane. "You will have to go without me."

"You are too busy," pouted Elizabeth. "I do not know why you do not employ a steward. A young woman of your age has better things to do than manage an estate."

"Lizzy! You sound just like Mama!" A burst of laughter filled the hall.

"Where will your walk take you today, Lizzy?" asked her elder sister.

"Oh, I have not decided. Perhaps I will know when I step outside and smell the fresh air. Are you sure you cannot come?"

Jane smiled and shook her head.

"Very well. Goodbye, Jane." And fetching her bonnet, Elizabeth ran out the door.

Jane was sitting quietly in front of her books at her father's old desk reviewing the accounts when she was interrupted by her mother.

"Jane, I would like to go into Meryton to see my sister Phillips and then to visit Lady Lucas on the way home. Would you please call for the carriage?" asked Mrs. Bennet.

"Mother, we agreed that Mondays would be the only day the horses left the farm. It is a lovely day for a walk, and I am sure Kitty and Lydia would be happy to go with you."

"You are as difficult and troublesome as was your father!" Mrs. Bennet stamped her foot and called for the housekeeper as she ran up to her room.

"Hill, Hill...!"

"Now, there, Mrs. Bennet," said Mrs. Hill, as she tried to calm her nerves. "Remember, there will be an assembly next week and perhaps the new tenants of Netherfield Park will attend. They should be moved in by then, you know. I have it from the housekeeper herself."

"Do you really suppose that they will come?"

"Of course, they will," said Mrs. Hill.

"Well, I do hope so. Oh, Hill, Jane is so stubborn about the horses," complained Mrs. Bennet. "She will not let me take the carriage into Meryton today."

"Miss Bennet has managed the estate well since the passing of your dear husband, and I know I am grateful for her kindness and generosity. She is a sharp one, that girl, nothing gets past her." What Mrs. Hill thought, but did not say, was that the daughter was doing a much better job of it than the father ever did.

Elizabeth was happiest when outside on one of her walks in the country. The summer air and the solitude revived her from the trials that must be endured in a household of six females.

Today she found herself walking towards Netherfield, where, since the place had been vacant, she frequently went to enjoy the pleasure gardens. She had developed a friendship with the gardener, who was always happy to see her. This would be her last visit, for the new tenants were to take possession any day.

While she was curious, of course, about whom their new neighbors would be, she was not burning with speculation, as were her mother and younger sisters. She had no fantasies of a rich young man seeking a wife from among the neighborhood daughters, and even if he were, he certainly would not choose her. Jane was five times as pretty as any young woman in the country. He would choose Jane.

Elizabeth was walking on the edge of a horse trail, almost within sight of Netherfield, when her attention was caught by a rabbit hopping along the other side of the path. In her momentary distraction, she did not notice a tree root protruding from the ground in front of her. With a cry, she tripped over it and fell, striking her head a rock.

"It is a relief for me to finally get a place of my own outside of town," said Charles Bingley triumphantly.

"You are always welcome at Pemberley," said his companion, Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Bingley had recently purchased a lease on Netherfield Park and this was to be his first night in the house. Staying with him at Netherfield were his sisters, Caroline and Louisa, and Louisa's husband, Mr. Hurst. This party had gone directly to the house. Bingley and Darcy were riding in on a more scenic route in order to see some of the countryside surrounding the house.

"I know, and I thank you for it," said Bingley, "but it seems like there is something different in having a place that you can call your own. It is nothing to Pemberley, I know, but the neighborhood is pleasant and I believe I shall enjoy living here very much.

"Do you not find country manners to be a little savage?" asked Darcy doubtfully.

"Country manners?" replied Bingley. "They are delightful."

"Well, then I suppose you will be happy here," said Darcy with a laugh.

As they rounded a corner, Darcy saw a purple bonnet lying across the trail. As he drew nearer, he was horrified to find a woman lying on the ground next to it. Darcy instantly reined in his horse and dismounted.

"Bingley!" Darcy yelled as he ran over to the fallen figure. Her foot was twisted in a root and she had been bleeding from the side of her forehead.

"Is she dead?" asked Bingley in frightened curiosity as he came up bedside Darcy.

Kneeling over her and bending down, Darcy felt her warm breath on his cheek. "No, she breathes. Come, we must get her to Netherfield."

"Well, Darcy, I will stay with her and you can..."

"No!" interrupted Darcy. "I will stay with her," he said more calmly. "Bring back the carriage and send for a physician to meet us at Netherfield."

"Yes, at once!" Bingley jumped on his horse and rode off at a gallop.

Darcy did not know what to do. She was breathing and the bleeding had stopped, but her skin was cold. He had no idea how long she might have been there. He took off his coat and wrapped it around her, cradling her head with his arms.

Bingley burst through the front door of Netherfield.

"Fossett," shouted Bingley, calling for his coachman, "have the coach brought around at once, then send to town for Mr. Manning!"

"What is the matter?" asked Miss Bingley who was already bored of being in the country.

"Darcy and I came across a young woman lying unconscious on the side of the trail we were following. She appears to have fallen and hit her head on a large stone."

"Who could be so clumsy as to do something like that?" laughed Miss Bingley. Her thoughts centered on the insipid nature of country folk. She would never forgive her brother for bringing her here.

"I am sure it was an accident, Caroline. Will you come with me in the carriage to go to her?" asked Bingley.

"Certainly, Charles," said Miss Bingley with some exasperation.

Darcy focused on the blood that had trickled onto the young lady's cheek. A memory from his childhood came unbidden to his mind at the sight of it.

'Ready, Fitzwilliam?'

'Yes, Richard. Are you?'

'Yes! Go!'

Fitzwilliam took off running down the sloping hill on the side of the house towards the stand of Spanish chestnuts. This was their daily challenge. The loser would have to water the horses. His cousin, Richard, almost always won, but today he was determined that he would win. He focused all his strength in his legs, so much so that he even closed his eyes. Suddenly, a dog barked and he turned his head towards the sound. At that moment his long legs got twisted up and he fell.

When he stood and examined himself, his pant legs were torn and he had a trail of blood running down his sleeve from a cut on his elbow. Even though he lost that day, Richard was kind enough to water the horses, anyway.

Darcy recollected himself, realizing that he had been staring at the young woman. What would she think if she were to suddenly wake up and find herself being held by him like this? Regardless of convention, however, he would not leave her on the ground.

Time had passed slowly for Darcy, but at last he could hear the carriage. In moments, Bingley and his sister were out of the coach and at his side.

"We came as fast as we could, Darcy," said Bingley. "Did she wake up? Has she said anything?"

Though he had accompanied Miss Bingley in the carriage, Bingley sounded out of breath, as if he had run the entire distance from Netherfield.

"No, nothing. She is just as she was. She must have been here quite a while, for she is very cold," stated Darcy. "I am very worried about her," he said as he pressed her closer against his body.

"Really, Mr. Darcy, one might think you that this creature had enchanted you the way you are holding her," sneered Miss Bingley. Perhaps if she fell Mr. Darcy might hold her in the same way, but the ground was so dirty...

Darcy did not respond, but looked down at the young woman and realized he was cradling her against his chest, her head in the crook of his elbow. Who was she and why did he feel such a need to protect her?

He lifted her into the carriage and laid her gently on the seat opposite Miss Bingley. After hovering over her just a moment to arrange his coat around her, he stepped out and made room for Bingley to enter the carriage.

"Drive on, Rossiter. Carefully!" ordered Bingley.

"Yes, sir."

Darcy walked back to the place where the young woman had fallen. Retrieving her bonnet, he noticed that a piece of light purple ribbon had become detached from it. He placed it in his pocket before mounting his horse and rushing back to Netherfield.

Mrs. Bennet and three of her daughters were in the drawing room at their work, sitting around a table cluttered with books, pins and cloth. Jane had finished the accounts and was standing by a window nearest the paddock, staring across the front lawn.

"Mama, Lizzy has been gone far too long. This is not like her at all," said Jane. Elizabeth never gave anyone cause for concern.

"Jane, you worry too much. You know how she likes to wander. She'll be back soon."

"But mother..." Jane stepped away from the window towards Mrs. Bennet.

"You already have too much to worry about, Jane. Do not worry about Lizzy," scolded her mother.

Jane was not convinced. Lizzy never stayed away for more than a couple of hours at a time, and it was now the afternoon. She should have been back. Elizabeth would never do anything to cause anyone to worry about her and Jane was worried. Very worried.

"Perhaps I should ask some of the tenants to look for her," suggested Jane.

"You will do no such thing, Miss Jane Bennet. Elizabeth is just fine and certainly does not need our help. You will only embarrass us with your false alarm. She will turn up soon enough and then you may have words with her," said Mrs. Bennet as she left the room.

Jane did not believe it. She knew in her heart that something must be wrong.

Darcy galloped past the carriage and was waiting impatiently at the front entrance to Netherfield by the time the coach arrived. Never had horse and carriage seem to move so slowly.

Before Bingley had left with his sister, he had given directions to the housekeeper to make a bedchamber ready for a young woman who had been injured, so preparations were well underway for her arrival.

When the carriage finally stopped, Darcy himself lowered the step and opened the door. He handed Miss Bingley out, Bingley followed, and then he entered the carriage. He paused to look at the woman. Nothing seemed to be different. He was relieved that she appeared no worse. He picked her up and began to carry her into the house.

"Mr. Darcy, surely you can let a servant take care of that," was Miss Bingley's snide remark.

"No, I cannot," replied Darcy.

"Come with me, sir," said Mrs. Thomas, the current housekeeper and former housemaid at Bingley's townhouse.

Darcy followed Mrs. Thomas up the stairs to one of the bedchambers where a maid was waiting and set the young woman carefully down on the bed.

"Thank you, Mr. Darcy," said Mrs. Thomas. "Anne will stay with her. Please send up Mr. Manning as soon as he arrives."

"Yes, of course. Please let me know at once of any change in her condition," said Darcy with urgency in his voice.

"Yes, certainly, Mr. Darcy. I will send you word immediately," replied Mrs. Thomas.

She wondered at the depth of his concern. She had known Mr. Darcy for quite some time, and knew he was not one to reveal his emotions, but with that expression of concern he had illuminated his whole soul.

Unable to find Elizabeth, Mrs. Hill sought out Jane. "Ma'am, Mrs. Bennet has asked me to send for Miss Elizabeth. Do you know if she has returned yet?" asked Mrs. Hill.

"No, Hill," answered Jane anxiously, "she has not yet returned."

Jane walked slowly up to her mother's room, feelings of dread disrupting her peace of mind. She found Mrs. Bennet arranging the pillows on her bed, obviously bored and unconcerned.

"Mama, Lizzy has not yet returned from her walk!" Jane said heatedly. "Oh, Mama, I am sorry, it is just that I am so worried about her."

"What do you mean she has not returned," said Mrs. Bennet. "Of course, she has returned."

"No, she is not here. Mama, we must begin a search for her. I fear that she has been injured...or worse," cried Jane. Unable to mask her worry, she began to pace the floor in front of her mother.

Mrs. Bennet was immediately alarmed upon hearing Jane's concern. Though Elizabeth was not her favorite child, her motherly feelings were roused at the possibility that her second daughter might be suffering.

"But it is so late now," whined Mrs. Bennet. "What can be done?"

"Mother, I am not going to sit by and do nothing while Lizzy may be lost or hurt!" With that, Jane hurried from the room.

Jane went into the library to pen a note to their nearest neighbor.

Sir William Lucas,

I am begging your assistance. My sister, Elizabeth, has been missing since this afternoon. She went for a walk and did not tell me in which direction she would be going. Would you please send servants to search around the area of Lucas Lodge for her and alert Colonel Forster that she is missing? I fear that some type of mischance has befallen her.

Thank you.

Jane Bennet

Jane also sent word to her Aunt Phillips begging her to spread the alarm.

"Hill, will you please send for David?" Jane would ask him to deliver her letters.

"Certainly, ma'am."

Jane felt helpless. There was not a night in her life that she did not spend at least a portion of it with Elizabeth, talking about the events of the day or sharing with each other their hopes and dreams for the future. Of all her family, Elizabeth was the one to whom she felt the most affection, and while she loved all the others, she believed that only Elizabeth returned her love equally.

Knowing how devoted Mr. Bennet was with his second daughter, it was a surprise to all when the estate was left to Jane. She wanted to share it with Elizabeth, but Elizabeth steadfastly refused to take away from Jane's inheritance.

Jane depended on Elizabeth for her courage. When Elizabeth knew that she was right, she was firm and steady, and Jane relied on her for her strength while she learned to deal with all the people she must encounter as a landowner. It had been a slow and difficult process for her.

The news that Elizabeth was thought missing had spread quickly through the servant's quarters, and when David was asked by Mrs. Hill to go to his mistress, he was already armed with sympathy and understanding. Miss Elizabeth was a favorite with him as she was with all the servants. She always greeted him with a kind word and a smile.

"Did you send for me, ma'am?" asked David.

"Yes, David. I need your help," she confessed. "Miss Elizabeth is missing and we must find her before nightfall. Please gather the servants and have them search all the paths as far as Meryton while you deliver these two letters, one to Meryton and the other to Lucas Lodge. My sister is missing," she repeated with a broken voice, " and I cannot bear the thought of her spending a night out alone."

"How long has she been gone?" he asked gently.

"She left on her walk this morning." Jane went to a window and stared at the roses in the garden. Elizabeth so much enjoyed flowers. Elizabeth so much... Jane's eyes began to burn. "She invited me to come with her, but I told her I was too busy." Jane wiped a tear from her eye. "She should have been back hours ago."

David averted his eyes from Miss Bennet when he saw her tears. "You do not really believe she is on a path between here and Meryton, do you?"

Jane stared at him. It was difficult to admit to herself or to him what she had begun to fear. "No, I do not. But I do not know what else to do."

Upon arriving later in the day, Mr. Manning, the Bingley's physician from town, was taken upstairs to see his patient. Shortly thereafter, he joined the party in the drawing room.

"I have completed my examination of the young woman," he said. "She appears to be in good health except for a slight injury to her ankle and a bump on the side of her head, the result of her fall. She has suffered a concussion, which explains why she is unconscious. I would expect that any minute she will wake up. Please do not let her remain alone under any circumstances for she will not know where she is and probably will not remember falling. The shock of finding herself alone in a strange place will be very distressing to her," said Mr. Manning.

"I have seen many such cases," continued Mr. Manning reassuringly, "and there is every reason to hope for a satisfactory outcome."

"And what if she does not wake up right away?" asked Miss Bingley. Having this person in her home was quite an inconvenience.

"She may become a little dehydrated, but there is no immediate danger," said Mr. Manning. In all his years attending the Bingley family, he had grown to dislike Miss Bingley very much and to distrust her motives.

Darcy looked at the floor and shook his head as he slid his hand into his pocket and fingered the purple ribbon.

"I have taken a room at the Inn and will return again tomorrow to examine her," said Mr. Manning. He had gathered up his things and was heading to the door when Darcy detained him.

"May I visit the young lady?" he asked expectantly.

"Mr. Darcy. Really!" scolded Miss Bingley.

"I see no reason why not. Please speak softly around her," cautioned Mr. Manning. "She will have quite a headache when she wakes up."

Darcy knocked on her door and waited anxiously. Was she awake and if not, when would she awaken? What was her name? From where had she come? Darcy knew he would not be able to rest until these questions were answered.

He was relieved to hear footsteps approaching and then finally a hand on the doorknob. The door opened slowly, as the person on the other side was being most cautious not to disturb the sleeping patient.

"May I help...sir?" Anne whispered. She had thought perhaps Mrs. Thomas might return to her, but was completely unprepared to meet a gentleman.

"I am Fitzwilliam Darcy, a guest of Charles Bingley. I helped bring the young lady here today. Mr. Manning said I may visit her."

Although hesitant about allowing a gentleman to enter the young lady's bedchamber, the young woman was asleep, and as Anne would remain with them, there was really no harm to it, so she acquiesced to his request.

"You are welcome, Mr. Darcy. My name is Anne, and I will be the young lady's maid while she remains at Netherfield."

"Thank you, Anne."

Darcy slowly approached the slight figure in the bed. Her hair had been let down around her face and shoulders. It was dark, curly and luxuriant, magnifying the brilliancy of her fair skin. Anne must have attended her for she looked remarkably well. Mr. Manning had bandaged the wound on her head and that was the only evidence that she had been through so much distress. As Darcy looked at her, he recognized an air of intelligence about her even while asleep and the faintest hint of a grin graced her lips.

"Who are you?" he asked the sleeping figure. Anne looked up. "I am sorry this happened. Bingley and I are grateful that we came upon you when we did. I shudder to think what might have happened had we not." Darcy walked around to the other side of her bed.

"Do you know who she is, Mr. Darcy?" asked Anne in a surprised voice. He was talking to her in a familiar manner.

"I...no, I have never seen her before," he replied.

Anne returned to her work and Darcy returned his attention to the young woman.

"Mr. Manning, Bingley's physician, has told us that you have suffered a concussion, but expects that you will be well and should wake up soon." He stood over her, unable to take his eyes off her. "I am so sorry," he whispered. All the horror of what might have been flashed across his brain for just a moment, forcing him to turn away from her.

He moved to the foot of the bed and looked at her once again. "I will come back in the morning," he said to her. "Good night."

That same need to protect her flooded once again through his body. Finally able to tear his eyes away from her, he turned to Anne.

"Anne, please send me word tonight, no matter what the hour, if her condition changes or if she should wake up." Although he spoke gently, Anne knew she had just received a command.

"Yes, Mr. Darcy."

Jane was sitting behind her father's desk in the library trying to busy herself with anything to keep her mind off Elizabeth when she was accosted by her mother who came running in the room.

"Oh, Jane, why did you not tell me Lizzy was going to be missing?" complained Mrs. Bennet, who was just beginning to realize that Elizabeth might not be coming back.

"Mama, I..."

"Now it is dark, and no one has found her, and I am sure she is dead!" cried her mother.

"Mama! Please do not talk that way! Please do not say such things! We must hope for the best."

Jane moved around the desk to where her mother stood and held her in her arms, taking no delight in witnessing her mother's tears.

In as soothing a voice as she could muster, Jane said, "Lizzy is a strong girl. At first light, they will go in search of her again. Colonel Forster has promised the support of the regiment. I'm sure she will be found unharmed."

Unable to speak further, Mrs. Bennet slipped out of the library and up to her room. This time there were no cries for Hill to attend her. Mrs. Bennet was in pain for the loss of her daughter.

Jane wished she could feel as certain as she sounded. Weakened from constant worry and upset, a sudden feeling of despair overtook her and she nearly collapsed into a chair in front of the desk. Giving vent to her feelings, she bent her head down on folded arms and wept. She would never forgive herself for not going out with Lizzy that morning.

Jane and Lizzy looked at each other and smiled as they walked together across the lawn past the swing to the edge of a very small rise in the ground. They each took three steps then dropped to their knees and rolled the rest of the way down the little hill, landing on top of each other in pile of blonde and brown curls, bonnets and flying skirts. Their laughter filled the air.

Little Mary, who had been watching them with a puzzled look, came over and asked, 'Lizzy, what are you doing?'

'We are falling,' she answered with a grin. 'Do you want to fall, too?'

'No, I think I will sit inside.' Jane and Lizzy watched Mary walk toward the house. They held each other's hand as they climbed to the top of the hill.

'Ready, Jane?' asked Lizzy. Jane nodded, and away they went down the hill again.

As Jane began to awaken, she felt her face grow warm, a welcome change as she had been cold all night. When she opened her eyes, she was blinded by a shaft of sunlight burning through a window. This was odd, she thought, because her room was on the west side of the house. As her blurry eyes adjusted to the light, she slowly began to recognize her surroundings and realized she was in the library and had fallen asleep on her father's desk.

Falling.

She had dreamt about one of the many times she and Lizzy had rolled down the hill behind the house. Had Lizzy fallen? Where was she? Was there someone to take care of her or was she all alone?

Jane felt her eyes burn and so went up to her room to seek the relief of cool water and a soft cloth. While there, she would take a moment to pray for Lizzy.

Shortly after breakfast Colonel Forster and Sir William Lucas called at Longbourn. Mrs. Hill showed them into the drawing room and then went to the library to let Jane know she had visitors.

The gentlemen stood when Jane entered the room.

"Miss Bennet, I have come to let you know that training exercises for the regiment have been cancelled for the day and that all the men and officers will be searching the area around Meryton for your sister," said Colonel Forster. "I am deeply grieved. This must have been a horrible night for you. Please be assured that we are doing everything in our power to find her."

"Thank you, Colonel. Your concern and activity in Elizabeth's behalf means so much to us all," said Jane. She would not cry! She would not!

"Have you any idea at all where she might have gone, which paths she might have taken on her walk, or how far she would go?" asked the Colonel.

"Elizabeth loves being out of doors and it was such a beautiful day yesterday. She had invited me to go with her." Jane paused. "Don't you see this is all my fault?" she cried in frustration. "I should never have let her go alone!" Jane's eyes started to water.

"Miss Bennet," said Sir William soothingly, "It is well known that Miss Elizabeth is an independent young woman who loves to explore about the countryside. This unfortunate event is not your fault. You could not have foreseen it. And if you had been able to, of course you would have done something to prevent it."

"Thank you, Sir William," sniffed Jane. "You are right, of course. My crying does no good." Jane went to a chair and sat down.

"Lizzy's favorite walk was to Oakham Mount and she would also go to Netherfield Park to visit with the gardener, but I am certain she would not have gone there because the new tenants were to move in yesterday. I believe that she knew that. She enjoyed solitary, secluded places."

"I have the farmers searching all the main pathways between their farms and Longbourn village and the area around Meryton is being searched by the regiment," said Sir William. "I will send you word throughout the day."

"Thank you Colonel. Thank you Sir William."

"We will do all in our power. I wish I could offer you better news," said the Colonel. "Good day, Miss Bennet."

Chapter 2

Posted on Sunday, 23 May 2004

The morning of the next day found Bingley and his friend downstairs early for breakfast. Darcy decided to put to him one of the nagging questions that had been weighing heavily on his mind.

"Who do you think she is, Bingley?" They were standing together at the sideboard filling their plates.

"I cannot imagine, Darcy. She seems finely dressed. Perhaps she is some gentleman's daughter out on an errand," said Bingley thoughtfully, "but it is odd that she should be out alone."

"Yes, it is," Darcy agreed. This experience proved to him even further why young ladies should not be out unaccompanied. It did not occur to him to examine whether young men were less likely to suffer from accidents than young women.

Darcy pulled the purple ribbon from his pocket and held it up to the light, thinking about its owner. His reflections, while mostly pleasant, were tinged with apprehension. While it was truly unfortunate that she had been injured, he was grateful that she was safe at Netherfield. He hoped that she would soon wake up and that he could become acquainted with her.

"What do you have there, Mr. Darcy?" asked Miss Bingley as she entered the room.

Darcy colored and quickly replaced the ribbon in his pocket. "Something I found, that is all." Rapidly changing the topic of conversation, he added, "And how are you this morning, Miss Bingley?"

"I survived my first night in this lonely house," she said to Darcy. Then turning to her brother, she continued. "Charles, why did you have to bring us all the way out here?"

"You are welcome to return to London anytime you wish, Caroline. I like it here," said her brother. He took his plate and sat at the table and began to eat.

"Any news of the little creature you found, Mr. Darcy?" asked Caroline. She was standing close to Darcy at the sideboard, pouring tea. "It is such an inconvenience to be troubled by sick people, particularly ones you do not even know."

"I have not seen her yet this morning, Miss Bingley," said Darcy. He moved away from her to a seat at the edge of the table, next to Bingley, where he could not be pursued further.

"Yet?" she asked incredulously. "Do you mean you intend to see her?" Miss Bingley was jealous of the attention this mysterious nobody was receiving from Mr. Darcy, attention that rightfully belonged to her.

"Yes, I will look in on her throughout the day to ensure that she is well cared for," he responded.

"Is not that Mr. Manning's purpose in being here this morning?" she asked.

"She is very ill, Miss Bingley, and I intend to do all in my power to assist in her recovery," he said firmly. Miss Bingley had made no effort to hide her feelings about the young lady and Darcy felt his patience with his friend's sister becoming strained.

"You are too kind, I am sure, Mr. Darcy," replied Miss Bingley coolly.

"What shall we do about her, Darcy?" asked Bingley. He was feeling responsible for her health and safety as she was under his roof. Not knowing who she was or where she came from was unnerving to him. He wished he had Darcy's ability to remain calm.

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"Well, she must have a family that is worried about her," answered Bingley.

"I have no idea from which direction she came..."

Darcy was interrupted by the appearance of Mr. Manning, just down from examining his patient.

"How is she, Mr. Manning?" asked Darcy. As the gentlemen stood, Miss Bingley looked at Darcy with a frown.

"The injury to her head is healing, but she has developed a slight fever, an effect of the concussion. If it increases in severity, she will need to be kept cool with compresses. Right now, though, she seems to be resting quietly. Anne is taking very good care of her."

Darcy knew that Mr. Manning was the Bingley's physician, and therefore had no doubt that the young woman was receiving the best care possible, but he wanted to be absolutely certain that the good doctor's opinion was correct. At least that is what he told himself.

The truth was that he just wanted to see her again. He left the breakfast room, and when he was out of sight of the others, hastened down the hall to the staircase and took them two at a time to the next floor and hurried to her room. He paused outside the door to catch his breath. Being a strong and healthy man, he knew that his run up the stairs was not the reason for his shortness of breath. Inhaling deeply, he knocked on the door, which Anne presently opened.

"Good morning, Mr. Darcy. Would you like to see our patient, sir?"

"Yes, if I may."

"Please, come in."

Showing less enthusiasm than he felt, Darcy walked silently into the room and went to stand between the young lady and the window so he could see her clearly in the light. She was really quite pretty. Anne must have brushed and arranged her hair. It had an attractive, healthy luster to it and had been styled to flow to one side of her face. Her hands were folded at her waist outside the blankets. Her fingers were very delicate and smooth, unused to hard, physical labor. Bingley was right. This was a gentleman's daughter. But what kind of gentleman would allow his daughter to walk about the countryside unattended?

Strangely, that thought was appealing to him - a young woman willing to defy convention, who enjoyed being outside, who enjoyed living life and did not need or want a constant attendant, a woman who enjoyed solitude and quiet. What a tragedy it would be if she did not wake up.

"Good morning," said Darcy to the sleeping young woman. "We have all been worried about you. Even Miss Bingley asked about you," he chuckled.

"I wish you would tell me your name so I could send word to your family. They must be very worried about you. I am also quite worried about you and I do not even know who you are," Darcy said, his voice registering his concern.

Mrs. Hill knew where to find Miss Bennet and so immediately went to the library.

"Miss Jane?" asked Mrs. Hill gaining her attention. Jane had been making a note in her pocketbook.

"Yes, Hill?"

"David is here, waiting in the breakfast room, and would like to see you. He says he has a message from Colonel Forster. Shall I bring him to you?" she asked.

"No, thank you. Tell him I will join him there," said Jane.

Mrs. Hill bobbed a curtsy and left to deliver Miss Bennet's message.

Jane rose up slowly and left the room. It was the late morning and Elizabeth should have been back by now if she had been lost in the dark. Lost. Elizabeth had been wandering around the countryside from almost the moment she could walk. She never became lost.

Jane felt Mary's eyes rest heavily on her as she entered the breakfast room, but all her attention was focused on David and what he might say, be it good or bad. Everything might depend on what he had to say.

"Jane..." began Mary as soon as Jane entered the room.

Jane closed her eyes, and summoning all her patience, said, "Please, Mary, I must speak with David."

"But..."

"Please!" cried Jane. Then turning to David, she looked at him expectantly.

"Miss Bennet, Sir William Lucas and Colonel Forster asked me to tell you that there is nothing new to report in the search for Miss Elizabeth," said David. "I am very sorry."

This was a message he did not want to carry, but it was his responsibility and he would fulfill his duty. The Bennets had been very good to him and his family, and he would do all he could to return the favor of their kindness, even if it meant being the messenger of ill tidings.

Jane felt herself close to tears. "Thank you, David." He made a slight bow then left the room.

Then turning to Mary, Jane said, "Please forgive me, Mary. What can I do for you?"

"I just wanted to know if you knew where Lizzy was," said Mary weakly.

"I do not know where she is," replied Jane, "but she will be fine, she must be fine. Have faith, Mary."

Mary felt the pain in her heart increase. "Jane, I do not think I treated Lizzy as well as I ought to have done. I used to ignore her when she would speak to me about my playing or suggest I change my hair. I always felt I knew best, and that I was better than she. Lizzy is always so happy all the time, and I can never understand it. Nothing ever makes her angry, and look at me, I am either impatient with her or I ignore her." Mary started to cry.

Jane gave her a hug. "Mary, dear, we are all different. Because you do not like the things she likes does not mean you do not love her, or she you. Do not distress yourself."

"Jane," said Mary through her tears, "I am horrified at how Kitty and Lydia seem unaffected. They have not pronounced a word of concern for Lizzy. All they talk about is going into Meryton tomorrow when the officers are back at their camp. How can they love her and behave like that?"

"They are young, and maybe this is their way of hiding the pain." Jane confessed to herself similar feelings regarding Kitty and Lydia's thoughtlessness.

"They have never cared for Lizzy. They are heartless."

Jane took a handkerchief and wiped away Mary's tears.

"Mary, I know that you love Lizzy very much, and I know that you are worried about her. What they say or do is not important. What matters is the relationship you have with her. I think it is easy for us to take each other for granted. When Lizzy gets back," said Jane firmly, "you can tell her how much you love her."

During his visit with the young woman, Darcy resolved that something must be done for her, and hoping that someone in the country would know of a missing girl, he determined that he would go in search of her friends and relations.

Darcy rejoined Bingley and his sister in the breakfast room and made known to them his intentions.

"Bingley, although I know that she is receiving the best of care, I feel I must do something. I am going to go riding this morning to search for the young lady's family," said Darcy resolutely.

"Darcy, however will you do that?" Bingley was all astonishment. "We have lived in the neighborhood but one day. We have visited no one, and no one has been to see us. We do not even know where the principal houses in the district are located. I have been to Meryton but once, and you, never. Where do you intend to go?" Bingley was incredulous.

"This is reckless, man!" cried Bingley, not letting him answer. "You are as likely to become lost yourself as find anyone connected with the young woman. Certainly you cannot be serious!"

"Mr. Darcy, you must not go. Please do not think of entertaining such a risk to yourself," seconded Miss Bingley.

"Bingley," Darcy replied patiently, ignoring Miss Bingley, "I believe that if she were from Meryton, someone would have come inquiring after her by this time, so I am going to assume she is from a place in the opposite direction."

"I had not thought of that," Bingley admitted.

"I shall ride out and begin inquiries at any cottage I come upon or with anyone I may meet. She is all alone, Bingley, and her family must be afraid for her. I must do something to help."

"Why do you care so much, Mr. Darcy?" Miss Bingley asked.

Darcy had been acting strangely, thought Bingley. He had attributed this behavior to his becoming accustomed to a new neighborhood and a new house, but as he reflected upon it, he realized that Darcy had always shown quite an interest in their unfortunate visitor. Bingley was aware of Darcy visiting her at least twice in her room since they brought her to Netherfield.

"I..." Darcy hesitated. "I just care," was all Darcy would say, as he fingered the ribbon in his pocket.

Bingley looked at him thoughtfully, then asked, "You are determined to go?"

"I am."

"Well, then I shall come with you."

Mrs. Bennet had not left her room all day, and as usual, Jane was both disappointed and relieved. Disappointed that her mother could not think of anyone beyond herself in a time of crisis, and relieved that if she must behave poorly, she did so closeted in her own room.

Jane was restless, and indeed, how could she rest when her sister was now missing for a full four and twenty hours? At any minute she was expecting to hear the worst.

Lizzy must have been abducted, injured, or worse, for her not to return home. Jane dare not speculate further. Lizzy had spent her whole childhood wandering the neighborhood for miles in each direction. Many of those miles they had walked together, but usually Lizzy ventured out on her own. No, Lizzy was not lost. Something had happened to her.

Jane moved from the drawing room out of doors to the lawn, somehow feeling she would be closer to Lizzy if she were outside. The air was fresh and filled with the fragrance of the countryside. It was just the sort of weather that Lizzy loved. Lizzy could not be contained within doors when the air was as pleasant as it was today, and this is what drew her outside yesterday. Instead of being beautiful, the day filled Jane only with pain, as everything reminded her of her missing sister.

In the late afternoon David appeared before Jane once again.

"Yes, David?" Jane looked at him hopefully, but was immediately downcast when she saw no look of enthusiasm on his face.

"Colonel Forster has sent me to report that nothing new is known of Miss Elizabeth's whereabouts." David could not look her in the eyes. "I am sorry, Miss Bennet."

"Have they looked everywhere, David?!" she cried.

Jane felt immediately ashamed. "No, I am sorry. Of course, they have. Thank you for telling me."

David hesitated for a moment, then, without a word he turned, and Jane watched him walk slowly back down the road towards Meryton.

Darcy and Bingley rode silently back to Netherfield. It had not been a successful search. The young woman could not have come from the area in which they had looked, for there were nothing but farms and cottages on that side of Netherfield. Darcy had asked some farmers if they knew of a girl who was missing, but no one had heard a thing. It was as if she had dropped in from nowhere.

The Netherfield party was sitting quietly in the drawing room that evening after dinner. Darcy was trying to distract himself with a book, Bingley was similarly employed, but his sister was bored and eager for conversation.

"Mr. Darcy, you have been very quiet tonight," Miss Bingley stated in what may be considered a frustrated tone of voice. Her efforts at engaging Mr. Darcy's attention had thus far been futile.

"What?" Darcy looked up from his book with a startled expression on his face. "Oh, I am sorry. What did you say, Miss Bingley?"

"I said that you have been very quiet tonight, sir. You hardly spoke a word at dinner. What could you be thinking of all this time, I wonder?"

"I was thinking about what is expected of me," he said

"And just what is expected of you?" asked Miss Bingley, surprised at having been able to draw him into conversation.

He laughed to himself. "To increase the importance and value of the Pemberley estate, to marry into a family of wealth and status, and to seek a good match for my sister. Of course, I must attend plays and balls during the season in London and enjoy the country as a gentleman should," said Darcy with no little sarcasm in his voice.

Darcy closed his book and walked over to stir the fire, astonished at having made such an admission, a confession, if you will, of what he thought to be a weakness in his character.

"You do not sound happy with those prospects, Mr. Darcy," she returned.

"I should be. Is that not what society expects of me? Is that not what a gentleman of wealth and property is supposed to do?" Darcy returned to his seat. "But little does society care about what my wishes might be for myself or what it is that I want."

"Darcy, just what is it that you want?" asked Bingley. This was a surprising revelation from a man Bingley always considered as knowing his own mind and determining his own future.

Darcy grew pensive and was silent for a moment. Then with an air of gravity, he began to explain. "To hire a manager to run Pemberley, allowing me more time to spend with my future wife and our children. To allow Georgiana to marry whomsoever she will by settling her fortune on her now so that she can make that choice without my interference. To remain at Pemberley and avoid London altogether. To live quietly and in retirement with my family and amongst my friends."

By now, Darcy was not aware that the others in the room were listening. He watched the coals burn in the center of the fire and felt a stirring in his heart and struggled against the impulse to join the young woman upstairs the way a dying leaf struggles against the wind on an autumn day.

It was now dark outside. It would be Lizzy's second night out alone. At any minute, Jane was expecting David to return with more news. Instead, it was Colonel Forster that was shown into the drawing room.

She arose at his entrance, searching his face for any sign of hope. She found none.

"Miss Bennet, I am sorry," said Colonel Forster, voicing what she had already gathered. "We have searched all the roads and paths around Meryton, Longbourn and Oakham Mount, and your sister is nowhere to be found. I do not know what more we can do." He spoke as gently as he could. There was much sympathy in his voice. "It is growing dark. I have sent the men back to their quarters and have asked Sir William to do the same with his servants."

"Unfortunately," he continued, "General Delford is coming tomorrow to inspect the regiment, so we will be unable to continue the search."

Jane received this information with tears in her eyes.

"Thank you, Colonel," she said as she fell back into her seat. Nearly all of her hope had been pinned on the efforts of the regiment. If they could not find her, who could?

"I wish we could have done more," he said. He met her gaze with moist eyes, then looked away, unable to endure the agony chiseled onto her features.

"I will find my way out," he said as he left the room.

Jane was stunned! Absolutely shocked! The full realization of what Colonel Forster said began to dawn on her. The hunt for Elizabeth was over. She would not be discovered, and would be forever missing.

She tried to stop the tears that were pouring from her eyes, but could not. As weak and as overwhelmed as she felt, she knew she had to be the strong one. She had to be the one upon whom her family could rely. It was certain now that Lizzy would not be coming back. Neither would they ever know what had happened to her.

It was her fault that Lizzy was not coming home. It was her fault because she had not gone with Lizzy on her walk. She had not been there to prevent whatever tragedy had befallen her sister. And now it was too late, and there was nothing she could do.

To escape the confinement of the drawing room and perhaps to relieve the slight embarrassment he felt because of his confession to Miss Bingley, he decided to retire early. As he ascended the staircase, however, his progress slowed. By the time he reached the top, he had not the energy to take himself anywhere but to her room. He knocked on the door.

"Come in, Mr. Darcy."

He smiled at this playful little display of impertinence and opened the door.

"Hello, Anne, how did you know it was me?" he asked. He knew he was the only one that came to visit the young lady, so at every knock at her door she must be expecting him.

"We have been anticipating your visit for sometime now," said Anne with a knowing smile.

"We?"

"Well...I have been expecting you," she replied. "Our young lady has not yet awakened, though she has begun to stir a little in her sleep."

"I am very glad to hear it."

Darcy walked over to her bedside. She looked so fragile surrounded by all the pillows and blankets. Color had returned to her cheeks, though, which made her look healthy and vibrant. In his mind, she had gone from pretty to breathtakingly beautiful.

He knew it was foolish to find himself in danger of falling in love with someone who had neither looked at him nor spoken to him. He could only imagine what her voice sounded like, but he felt himself succumbing. She radiated liveliness and playfulness and he felt refreshed just by being around her.

"Good evening," Darcy said to her. "Bingley and I rode out today looking for your family, but we met with no success. I am sorry. I will try again tomorrow."

Darcy wanted to hold her hand. He did not know if she needed the comfort or if he did. He knew that if he were ever allowed to touch her, it would be a day he would never forget.

"You look well today. Anne is taking very good care of you."

"Thank you, sir," said Anne. She had purposely kept up the young woman's looks, knowing that Mr. Darcy's visits were becoming quite regular.

Darcy bent down closer to her face, tempted by her lips. "Please," he whispered to her, "if you can hear me, please know that I am doing everything in my power to take care of you. Please trust me." He gazed at her face, willing her eyes to open. "Please, come back."

Jane dismissed the servants, who quietly left the room, leaving her with a supply of candles. Sleep was out of the question. She had to resign herself to the idea that Lizzy was not coming home. If she had been hurt, this was her second night outside exposed to the elements. If she had been taken by someone...well, she did not even want to think of that.

Her tears would not stop. Mary had sat up with her for awhile, but Jane had sent her to bed. She felt the responsibility for all her family on her shoulders. She felt responsible for Lizzy's loss, and knew she could not face any of it while in her own bedchamber. For the second night there would be no Lizzy to come and visit her there.

In what seemed like a moment or two, Jane woke with a start. She had fallen asleep sitting up on the sofa. It was pitch black. Her candle had gone out and there was no moon.

"Oh, Lizzy!" she cried as she sunk back down on the couch.

Mrs. Thomas, the Netherfield housekeeper, decided to go into Meryton herself to the butcher's rather than send a servant. Wanting to acquaint herself with the town, she left her carriage at the end of the street and walked to the shop.

"Good day! I am Mrs. Thomas, the housekeeper at Netherfield," she said to the butcher as she walked into his shop.

"Hello, ma'am, My name is Evan. What can I do for you today?"

"It is nice to meet you, Evan. This is my first visit into Meryton. You have a lovely town," said Mrs. Thomas.

"Not too lovely lately, ma'am," he said sadly.

"Why not?"

"One of the popular young women of the country has gone missing these past three days. Everyone has been searching for her, but it is as if she vanished."

"Oh that is awful. What is her name?" she asked, quietly rejoicing because of this news.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet, of Longbourn."

For an instant, she wanted to tell him, to tell everyone, that she knew where Miss Bennet was, but she thought the better of it. There would no doubt be a chaotic rush to Netherfield to claim her, and no telling how her family would take the news of their missing daughter being in the home of strangers. No, she would quickly return to Netherfield and tell all that she knew to the gentlemen and allow them to restore Miss Bennet to her loved ones.

"And nobody knows where she is?" asked Mrs. Thomas.

"No, ma'am. The regiment was out searching for her yesterday and all the farmers looked on their land. Everybody has kept their eyes open for her but she has disappeared," replied Evan.

"That must be terrible for her family," she commented.

"Her elder sister, Miss Jane Bennet, who is the head of the family, is struggling to keep up the appearance of composure but there is no doubt that everyone is suffering greatly. Such goings-on as these just do not happen around here, ma'am. We are not accustomed to tragedy and loss."

"Evan, I have just remembered something I must be about. I will send a servant by later for some venison. Goodbye," she said as she quickly left the store.

"Yes ma'am," he called after her.

Mrs. Thomas' heart was gladdened by what she had heard. This was the first news they had received of the young woman. Mr. Darcy would be very pleased to know something about her.

Rossiter was still with the carriage, and she hurried herself to it.

"Rossiter."

"Yes, ma'am?"

"Please take me back to Netherfield as quickly as you can."

"Very well. I will do my best," he said.

Jane heard Mrs. Bennet calling for her.

Jane was in Lizzy's room curled up on her bed. Lizzy's scent was everywhere, and while consoling in some ways, it was agony in others. She was wrapped up in one of her sister's quilts, remembering one of their many conversations in that room, and on that bed, wrapped up together under that same blanket, when, without warning, she was once again struck with the overwhelming conviction that she would never see Lizzy again. Jane started to cry.

Her mother called out to her again. Making an effort to compose herself, Jane answered Mrs. Bennet's summons. Her mother began to speak to her just as she entered the room.

"Oh, Jane, I do not think the regiment searched as well as they ought to have," cried Mrs. Bennet. "I think there was some gross mismanagement on their part that caused them to overlook where Lizzy was to be found and now she is dead."

"Mama, the men made every effort to find Lizzy. We may never know..." said Jane. The spoken truth was more awful.

"What do you mean 'never know?'" cried Mrs. Bennet, panic filling her voice.

Jane broke down into tears when she said, "Oh, Mama, I do not believe we shall see Lizzy ever again."

"Jane!" screamed Mrs. Bennet. "I cannot endure this! Please ... I am growing faint! ... Oh, Lizzy, what have you done?!"

She could not comfort her mother, for her feelings ran on the same vein and she had not the strength to support the spirits of anyone else.

Mrs. Hill had been above stairs when she heard Mrs. Bennet's cry, and she shook her head in agreement. She had been part of the household since the year before Miss Elizabeth was born, and she felt her loss exceedingly. The nature of her position at Longbourn, however, prevented the display of emotion that relieved the grief of the sufferer.

She was descending the stairs when there was a knock at the door. She frowned at the inconvenience of callers when the family was in such a state of mourning. Nevertheless, propriety and good manners called upon her to open the door.

Before her were two gentlemen whom she had never before seen. The young man standing closest to her, and who seemed about to speak, was of medium height, with light hair and pleasant blue eyes. Of the other man, the only word that would describe his looks and his air would be dark. She invited them into the hall.

"May I help you, sir," said Mrs. Hill, addressing herself to the first gentleman.

"We need to speak with any member of the family. We have news concerning Miss Elizabeth Bennet." He spoke with a sense of urgency.

Hill paled. Forgetting herself, she cried, "Oh!" and then hurried upstairs, leaving the gentlemen standing in the entryway. She entered Mrs. Bennet's bedchamber in haste, neglecting to knock. Addressing herself to Jane, she said, "Miss Bennet, there are two gentleman to see you. They say they have news of Miss Elizabeth. They are..."

Jane ran down the stairs and into the hall, while Hill remained with Mrs. Bennet who was calling for her salts.

As Jane was making her way to the drawing room, she saw two men standing in the entryway.

Running up to them and nearly out of breath, she said, "Gentlemen, I am Jane Bennet. Do you have news about Elizabeth, do you know where my sister is?"

The fairer man said, "Yes. She is at Netherfield Park even as we speak."

The color drained from Jane's face and she raised one hand to her head and stretched the other out in front of her. The gentleman could see her knees begin to give way and rushed to her and held her in his arms.

Jane had been unable to choke down a sob, and with the knowledge that Elizabeth was alive, all the stress and tension of the past three days fled from her body, leaving her weak and unable to support herself. She reached out her hand and felt herself begin to fall. Suddenly, she was being cradled in strong arms, her head leaning on a firm shoulder. Endeavoring to recover herself, she returned the embrace as her legs regained their strength. Never had she felt so sheltered. Never had she felt such protection. Whoever this was who had just saved her from falling was endeared to her forever. Allowing herself to relax for just an instant in his arms, she slowly pushed away from him.

"Miss Bennet," said the fair colored man, "allow me to help you to sit down."

Her color returned with the heat of confusion as he placed his arm around her waist and nearly carried her to the nearest seat.

"There," he said, as he sat her down.

"I shall call for some water," said the other man. Jane saw him dash from the room.

As her vision cleared, she turned her eyes to the first voice and beheld the most handsome face she had ever seen.

"I ... thank you ... sir," she stuttered.

Just then the dark haired man returned with a glass of water. Before she could reach for it, though, the other man took it from him and handed it to her himself.

"Please allow me to introduce myself," he said. "My name is Charles Bingley, lately of Netherfield Park, and this is my good friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy."

Bingley spoke again. "You must forgive us for not coming sooner, but we had no idea who the lady in our care was so that we could inform her family of her whereabouts and condition."

Jane's heart skipped a beat at the sound of his voice. She looked directly into his clear blue eyes and felt an immediate connection to him. She barely knew his name, yet she sensed his kindness.

The other man was tall with dark hair. He had penetrating eyes that seemed to look right through her. He moved very deliberately and seemed nervous in her presence.

"Please, tell me everything," she begged. She addressed herself to Mr. Bingley, who looked hesitantly at his friend. He answered with the briefest nod, and Mr. Bingley then began to speak.

"Three days ago, Darcy and I were riding towards Netherfield when we came across a young woman lying on the side of the horse trail we were following. Her foot was tangled in a root and it appeared to us that she had fallen and struck her head on a rock. She was unconscious, but alive."

Jane raised her hands to her face with a look of horror.

"Darcy stayed with her while I went for a carriage and to send for a doctor. We carried her to Netherfield and installed her in a bedchamber. We summoned our doctor, Mr. Manning, from London, not knowing whom else to call. He arrived in the afternoon and told us she was well and with no significant other than a blow to the head. He said she suffered from a concussion and was certain that she would wake up, but could not say when."

"Thank you!" cried Jane. "Thank you for finding her and caring for her. You cannot understand the ... We had thought the worst. We had assumed she had ... Please, wait here while I run upstairs and share the news with all my family," she said. Accordingly, she rose and quickly left the room.

Darcy was struck by Jane's beauty. He had expected to see someone similar in appearance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but she did not resemble her sister at all. She had light blonde hair, blue eyes and was taller. During his and Bingley's investigation in Meryton, he learned that Jane was the eldest of five daughters, and was in possession of Longbourn after the death of her father.

Bingley had never beheld such beauty in his life as had been present before him in the form of Miss Jane Bennet. Her movements were graceful and pleasing. Besides her outward beauty, Bingley could sense an inner strength. It was apparent that the horror of a missing sister had weighed heavily upon her, that it was likely that she bore the burden of her whole family. If her father had left the estate to her, he must have acknowledged her as the source of strength in her family, not her mother. Miss Bennet was confident in herself and was not afraid to look him in the eye. The set of her chin told him that she received him into her home as an equal. She obviously cared for this sister very much. It grieved him that their acquaintance had to be made under such awful circumstances and he hoped it would not ruin his chances of getting to know her. She was an irresistible combination of beauty and virtue. Before he knew it, Bingley was in love. Miss Bennet had captured his heart.

As there was no doubt in his mind that Miss Bennet would wish to see her sister immediately, Darcy took the liberty of ordering her carriage.

When Jane left the room, Darcy's memory returned to that awful moment when he discovered Miss Elizabeth on the trail. He remembered holding her, trying to comfort and warm her. Had he known her name then, he would have gently repeated it to her, hoping that she would recognize the sound and wake up. Now, at last, he had her name.

"Elizabeth," he murmured.

Chapter 3

Posted on Sunday, 30 May 2004

When Mrs. Thomas had eagerly broken the news to Darcy and Bingley, the former had immediately gone to Miss Elizabeth's room to tell both her and Anne that Miss Elizabeth's family had been discovered. Anne had been delighted. Elizabeth was still unconscious, but he had spoken to her anyway, assuring her that he would bring them to her that very day.

Darcy did not understand his feelings for Miss Elizabeth. He felt a great need to protect and cherish her. It was inconceivable that he was falling in love with someone that he did not know, who could not possibly return his love and who might not be his equal in social standing or temperament, but somehow none of that mattered. Her beauty, and what he perceived to be her innocence, had touched his heart. Perhaps when her family came she would recognize their voices and would wake up. His heart leapt at the prospect.

Jane's carriage arrived at Netherfield followed by Bingley and Darcy, who came on horseback. Mr. Bingley handed her out of the carriage and escorted her into the house where Mrs. Thomas awaited them.

"Miss Bennet, this is my housekeeper, Mrs. Thomas," said Bingley, making the introduction.

"I am pleased to meet you, Miss Bennet, and am so grateful that you could come to visit your sister. Please call on me for anything you might need. I have assigned a footman to wait outside your sister's room. Should you need anything, please dispatch him with your request."

"Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, you are very kind," said Jane as politely as her anxiety to see Elizabeth would allow.

"This way, Miss Bennet," said Bingley, ushering her down the hall and to the staircase.

Darcy followed them up the stairs. Bingley knocked on Elizabeth's door, and Anne opened it.

"Anne," said Bingley, "this is Miss Jane Bennet, Miss Elizabeth Bennet's sister."

"How do you do, ma'am. Please come in," said Anne, stepping back from the door to allow them room to enter.

"Thank you," Jane whispered.

Jane's eyes filled with tears as she ran to the bed where Elizabeth lay. She knelt on the floor next to Elizabeth, holding one of her hands against her cheek and quietly cried.

Anne's eyes filled with tears at the sight of the reunion.

"Lizzy, it is I, Jane. Thank goodness you are alive and safe. Oh, Lizzy, I thought I lost you! I have missed you so very much."

Jane could not stifle a sob, but wept for joy and relief.

"Please, Lizzy, it is time for you to wake up, dearest."

Jane wiped her tears away.

"I have been so worried. We have all been so worried. I imagined the worst, that I would never see you again and here you are! You look so well. Oh, please, wake up and tell me that you are all right!"

Bingley and Darcy left the room to give the sisters some privacy, retiring to the library for brandy and conversation.

Safely ensconced in the library, Bingley wanted to know Darcy's opinion of their visitor.

"So what do you think of her?" He pulled the stopper off the bottle and poured out the liquid.

Darcy took the glass he offered. "She is beautiful. I wish she would wake up. Bingley, I am very concerned about her. I only hope that hearing her sister's voice will make a difference."

Bingley laughed. "No, Darcy, I was thinking of Miss Jane Bennet."

It never even occurred to Darcy that he would be speaking of anyone other than Miss Elizabeth.

"Oh! Yes, well," said Darcy, confused at his mistake, "she is very pretty, too. She seems to be under enormous stress right now." To hide his embarrassment, he quickly added, "And I was a little surprised at her display of emotion."

"Well, I forgive her for it, Darcy," Bingley stated resolutely. "I like her very much. I feel close to her already and I am looking forward to getting to know her better."

"Be on your guard, Bingley", counseled Darcy. "These are not the best of circumstances for developing an attachment."

"I suppose I could give you the same warning," smiled Bingley. "Be on your guard."

Jane spent the afternoon with Elizabeth, speaking quietly to her, holding her hand, weeping over her, praying over her, and begging her to wake up.

From time to time, Bingley came to the room to see if he could be of any assistance to Jane. In every instance, he was taken by her beauty and grace. Each movement of her hand or the way she bent her head endeared her to him. He marveled at the wisps of hair that trailed against the nape of her neck, and the curls that framed her face. He strained to hear the sound of her voice as she spoke soft words to Miss Elizabeth. Bingley knew he was in danger of falling in love with her, but it was a danger he welcomed.

On one of these visits Bingley announced himself with a light tap on the door.

"Please come in," responded Jane.

"Miss Bennet, I have come to offer you some refreshment. Would you care for tea?" suggested Bingley. If she accepted, he would be able to sit with her for a few minutes.

"Thank you, sir. I would appreciate some tea, if you please." Jane was all gratitude.

"I will see to it," said Bingley.

Bingley went to the door and spoke to the footman, then took a seat across the room from the two sisters and made small talk with Anne while trying not to stare at Miss Bennet.

In a short time, a maid entered with a tea service, which Bingley took from her. Jane walked over to pour the tea, but Bingley was there before her. She watched him fill a cup for her.

"Miss Bennet," he said gently, handing it to her.

"Thank you," said Jane.

Jane sipped the cup that he had given her and looked up at him, returning his smile. He was an attractive man and very attentive. He made her feel comfortable and welcome, not like an intruder. Elizabeth was in safe hands. Jane knew Mr. Bingley was looking at her, perhaps longer than propriety allowed, but she was pleased by his attention. She remembered the strength of his arms when he held her for that brief moment at Longbourn. She knew she could trust him.

Jane set her tea down and returned to her sister. "Oh, Elizabeth, please wake up. I have so much to tell you," Jane whispered. Elizabeth was the one person in whom she could confide all the feelings of her heart.

Jane had now been alone with Elizabeth for some time, for Mr. Bingley had withdrawn shortly after tea, claiming to have estate business to which he had to attend.

"It is growing late," commented Jane to Anne. "I must return home. I am sure we will meet again soon." Jane combed Elizabeth's hair back with her fingers. "Anne, thank you so much for looking after Elizabeth. The care you have taken in making my sister both comfortable and beautiful is very much appreciated."

"Thank you, Miss Bennet," said Anne. "I am doing my best for her."

Jane left the room and the footman escorted her down the stairs and to the drawing room where the gentlemen were sitting. They rose at her entrance.

"Miss Bennet, I hope you found your sister well," said Mr. Bingley, pleased that she had sought him out before leaving Netherfield.

"Thank you very much for caring for her, sir. You cannot know how much it means to my family and me. We despaired for her life, but you have saved her," said Jane. "You cannot imagine the relief I feel. I love her so much. I could not have lived without her. I could not..." Jane turned away with tears in her eyes.

A worried chill settled in Bingley's chest as he watched her cry. He turned his head for a moment to allow her the opportunity to compose herself, which she did quickly.

"Miss Bennet," he said softly, "it is our pleasure to help your sister." Then looking away, he made her an offer that he hoped she would accept.

"I would like to invite you to stay at Netherfield with us until your sister is well."

Jane paused for a moment to reflect on his invitation. She would like nothing better, but she knew her mother would make accepting such an offer impossible.

"Thank you. You are very kind, but I must decline. I must return to Longbourn. My mother must be informed of Elizabeth's condition. She is beside herself with worry."

"Then please come to Netherfield as often as you like. Will we see you tomorrow?" asked Bingley hopefully.

"Yes, I would like that very much."

With that, Bingley escorted Jane to her waiting carriage, handed her in, closed the door and watched the coach until it was out of sight. With a sigh, he returned to the house.

Bingley walked into the drawing room where he found Darcy at a window, seemingly lost in thought. During that brief moment when Darcy was unaware of his presence, Bingley summoned up his courage to make a confession he had been longing to make.

"Darcy, I like her," he blurted out.

This drew Darcy's attention away from the window and towards his friend.

Bingley continued. "I like her very much."

"Miss Bennet, you mean?" asked Darcy, knowing full well whom he meant.

Bingley sat in the chair opposite Darcy wondering if it were truly possible that he could be so dense as to not know of whom he was speaking. With a shake of his head, he enlightened his friend.

"Miss Jane Bennet, of course!" cried Bingley. "Is she not the most beautiful creature you have ever beheld?"

Bingley rose and began to pace back and forth in front of Darcy, unable to contain the happiness he felt whenever he thought or spoke of her.

"She is very pretty, I grant you," said Darcy, grateful that they were not speaking about the other Miss Bennet.

Bingley stopped his walk and stared at him with an expression of incredulity.

"Pretty? You grant me? Come, man! You have never seen a woman more attractive than she."

Darcy chuckled as he returned his attention to the window. Although the prospect was pleasing, his eyes would not focus on it, for his mind was not concerned with scenery, but with a certain lady. He absent-mindedly pulled out the piece of purple ribbon from his pocket and wrapped it around his fingers.

Bingley was watching Darcy with no small amount of curiosity. Staring out windows with a far-away expression on his face and playing with ribbon was not typical behavior for Darcy.

"What is that?" Bingley inquired with great interest as he moved closer to obtain a better view of what Darcy was holding.

Darcy's face reddened. "Oh, nothing, just a piece of ribbon," he said, scolding himself for his embarrassment. "I found it."

Bingley decided to pursue the matter.

"And where did you find it?"

Darcy hesitated, not wishing to own the truth, but not knowing how to evade the question without resorting to a falsehood, he was forced to make his own confession.

"It belongs to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I believe it came off her bonnet at the time we found her on the trail."

The room was silent as Bingley reflected on this piece of information. He had already noted Darcy's strange behavior ever since he had encountered Miss Elizabeth, behavior that might be explained if Darcy felt himself attracted to her. Bingley wondered at the power Miss Elizabeth might have over him when she finally awakened, if she had this much influence over his friend while still asleep.

"Hmm...Perhaps you have seen someone more attractive than Miss Bennet," Bingley said with a grin.

Jane jumped from the carriage just as soon as the door was thrown open and ran upstairs to her mother's room.

"Mama, I have seen Elizabeth!" she cried, knowing that her news would be most welcome.

"Oh, thank goodness, Jane! How is she? Is she awake? What did she say?" asked Mrs. Bennet urgently.

"She appears to be fine," stated Jane more sedately. "She is unconscious, but she has good color and they are taking very good care of her. I am going to return to her again tomorrow."

"Did you see Mr. Bingley or Mr. Darcy? They are fine looking gentleman," said Mrs. Bennet, her motherly concern for the well-being of her second eldest daughter waning. She had watched the gentlemen mount their horses and ride away from the house when Jane left in the carriage. It would do very well to have Elizabeth engaged before she came away from Netherfield. Either gentleman would suit that purpose. Perhaps the other would prefer Jane.

"I saw them both, Mama" said Jane quickly. "They are well, and I thanked them with all my heart. They are so kind and well mannered. Indeed, everyone in Mr. Bingley's household is a pleasure to be around. He has given Lizzy a maid who attends to her night and day."

"Netherfield Park is such a beautiful old home," said Mrs. Bennet. "I am sure with the proper attention it could be fixed up nicely. I would like very much to see you or Lizzy settled there." There could be no two opinions on any matter on which she had decided.

"Mama! Please do not say such things! Both gentlemen are very kind and have been very good to Lizzy, but we hardly know anything of them. Besides, there is every reason to believe that they are not looking to form an attachment, or if they were, they could make much more advantageous matches. We know them just as pleasant acquaintances, so please do not consider the matter any further," begged Jane. "You will only embarrass us." She knew, though, that once her mother attached herself to an idea, it would take forever to get her off it.

"My daughters are good enough for anybody!"

Mrs. Bennet, once again frustrated with Jane, sent her away and called for Mrs. Hill so she could complain about the ill-usage she suffered at the hands of her eldest daughter, who first refused her the horses and now refused to marry Mr. Bingley or Mr. Darcy.

Darcy retired early that night, his head full of the enchanting image of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. After an interminable period of tossing and turning, he finally slept. He was roused an hour later by a pounding on the door.

"Mr. Darcy! Mr. Darcy! Please wake up, sir!"

He recoiled at the sound of a woman's voice calling out his name.

"What?! Who is there?!"

For a moment, all he could see was a shadow as his eyes focused on a candle. As the light fell across the intruder's face, Darcy recognized Anne, Miss Elizabeth's maid, and he immediately became alarmed.

"I am sorry to have entered your room and to have disturbed you, sir. I had been knocking, but you did not answer. It is Miss Elizabeth," she cried. "She is very hot and feverish. I have tried all I know to bring down the fever, and I do not know what else can be done for her."

As Darcy rallied his wits about him, all his faculties became engaged to one cause, Elizabeth's welfare.

"I will come immediately. Go to her," he commanded. Anne exited the room and he jumped from his bed, dressing quickly. He ran to Elizabeth's room and entered without knocking.

He rushed to Elizabeth's side and felt her forehead and cheeks with the back of his hand. She was indeed very hot, was stirring and making unintelligible noises. It was an unsettling sight to witness.

"Mr. Darcy, what shall we do?" asked Anne, nearly in despair.

Darcy clenched his eyes shut as the answer to her question presented itself in the form of a dreaded memory.

"When my mother was ill, before she ... she...," he could not say the word. "We need to cool Miss Elizabeth and bring the fever down. I will fetch some ice from the ice house. We will break it up, wrap it in cloth and lay it around her head and shoulders. I will return immediately. Stay with her!"

He ran down the stairs and out the door at the rear of the house. Crossing the lawn, he came to a door set in a small rise in the ground next to a large tree. Opening it, he went down a few steps, then passed through two more doors and into a chamber lined in brick and straw. Sheets of ice were stacked on shelves lining the walls. He used a hammer to break off chunks and slivers of ice, which he placed in a bag and carried back to the house.

Once again at Elizabeth's bedside, he took out ice chips and wrapped them in damp cloths, and placed them around her neck, on her shoulders and across her forehead. Contrary to their hopes, the ice was not immediately effective. Elizabeth continued to moan and began to thrash about.

When he had done all he could do, he took her hand and spoke to her gently, encouraging her with soft words and urging her to rest and be still.

"Miss Bennet," he said, and pouring out his heart, he continued, "Elizabeth, shh ... you will be fine. We are caring for you and all will be well. Please do not be afraid. I will not leave you alone. Please, Elizabeth, shh..."

Repeating his entreaties, he began to caress her hand. Despite the assurances he gave her, he was afraid for her. He knew his mother had been treated with ice when she was feverish before she had died, and that in her case it was to no avail. He knew he had to be strong for Elizabeth, so making every effort to bury his own fear, he continued his ministrations to her.

He alternately refreshed the ice and wiped her skin dry, never ceasing to speak softly to her in a manner he hoped was soothing and calming. His mother had spoken to him in this way when he had been ill as a boy, and he hoped for the same efficacy with Elizabeth.

Darcy did not notice the passing of time. All his thoughts were focused on comforting Elizabeth and cooling her with the ice. Very gradually it appeared that his efforts were beginning to make a difference. She became quiet, she stopped moving about and a look of peace overspread her face.

Exhausted, Darcy sat back in his chair, still holding her hand, still speaking softly to her. He would not leave her. The emergency passed, his eyes closed slowly and he drifted off to sleep.

Anne had fallen asleep in her seat by the table, but was awakened when her scissors fell off her lap to the floor. The light of dawn was beginning to show through the window and as Anne was certain that Mr. Darcy would not wish it to be known that he had passed the night nursing Miss Elizabeth, she walked over to his chair and touched his shoulder. His eyes flickered opened and he looked at her.

"Mr. Darcy, she is sleeping peacefully," whispered Anne. She gave Mr. Darcy all the credit for having cured Miss Elizabeth of her fever.

He observed Elizabeth narrowly for a moment.

"Yes, she is," he agreed.

"I will continue to watch over her," said Anne. "Dawn is soon approaching and you should return to your room. You have saved her, sir. The emergency has passed."

He was still holding Elizabeth's hand, which he placed beside her on the sheet, for they had taken the blanket off of her long ago.

"Do you think she is cold now?"

Anne touched Miss Elizabeth's cheek and hand. "She seems to be neither hot nor cold. I am certain that she is now comfortable. I will watch her closely, and will send you word if her condition changes."

"Yes, Anne, thank you." He was feeling the effects of being up most of the night, but did not regret his decision to nurse Elizabeth.

"Thank you for your help, sir. I did not know what to do. Thank you again and again," said Anne as she followed him to the door.

"I will return later in the morning. Is there anything I can do for you? May I have some tea sent up?"

"No, nothing, thank you."

Before Darcy went to his room to wash and dress, he sent word down to the kitchen to request that tea be sent up for Anne.

When the others had arisen for the day and were all gathered in the breakfast room, Miss Bingley could not help but comment on Darcy's appearance of fatigue.

"Mr. Darcy, did you not sleep well?" she asked. "Is there anything I may do for you?"

"No, I thank you."

"You seem so tired and distracted. Are you unwell?" she persisted.

"I am well, thank you." He would not admit to his weariness nor confess to anyone how he had spent the night.

"May I pour you some tea? Would you like another muffin? May I get you anything?" begged Miss Bingley.

All he wished was for her to refrain from speaking to him. His head ached and the muscles in his neck and arms felt stiff.

"No, nothing! Please do not concern yourself," he responded, more heatedly than he intended. He stood and went to the sideboard for more tea. Miss Bingley did not press him further.

It was becoming unbearable. The interminable waiting for Elizabeth to wake up was trying Darcy's patience. How much longer would she remain asleep? He had to see her. Earlier than appropriate, but no later than he could tolerate, he was off to Elizabeth's bedchamber. He knocked on the door, waiting expectantly for Anne to open it.

A new voice, one that he had never heard before, beckoned to him.

"Please come in."

He was astonished at the feelings of gratitude that coursed through him when he considered that it was in all likelihood Elizabeth answering his knock. He forced himself to open the door slowly and entered the room with some show of restraint.

He was greeted by the warmest smile he had ever received, which he could not help returning.

"Please come in, sir," Elizabeth repeated cheerfully.

Her voice touched his soul. He felt soothed, invigorated and refreshed just from the sound of it.

"Thank you," said Darcy. He walked over to the foot of the bed and bowed formally.

"Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Fitzwilliam Darcy," he said, bowing slightly. "I am a friend of Charles Bingley, whose residence this is. I did not expect you to be awake. Please forgive me for intruding on your privacy." He tried to turn to leave, feeling most uncomfortable in this situation, but he could not tear himself away from her. As he looked into her luminous eyes for the first time, their beauty quite overcame him. He had never seen anything as remarkable as her eyes. When she smiled at him, she positively glowed.

"Please do not leave, sir. Please do not feel ill at ease. Allow me to express my gratitude." Elizabeth paused. When she saw that he no longer intended to leave, she continued.

"I am Elizabeth Bennet, and I believe I have you to thank for rescuing me and bringing me here. Thank you for your kindness."

"It was not kindness, I assure you. I..."

With a blush she interrupted him. "And I also thank you for nursing me last night. Anne tells me that you very likely saved my life." She once again favored him with a smile, and his heart went out to her.

Not wishing to discomfit Elizabeth, and feeling quite uncomfortable himself, he did not comment on her last remark. "Bingley and I came upon you as we were traveling to Netherfield." It was painful to take his eyes away from her. "It has been our pleasure to care for you."

"I must thank Mr. Bingley as well, it seems, sir."

"Your elder sister came yesterday," said Darcy, knowing she would be pleased.

"Jane?!" Elizabeth was excited.

"She was very upset at first. You see, we did not know who were for three days, and could send word to no one of your condition and whereabouts," he confessed. He was pained by the concerned look on her face.

"I was asleep for three days?" she questioned incredulously.

"You were, and I may say we all feared for you exceedingly. I am," he said painfully, "we all are, grateful that you are awake now."

There was no mistaking the tone of his voice, she thought. He had been quite concerned about her.

"I am surprised at how weak I feel for having slept so long. Anne told me she was to inform you immediately when I woke up," Elizabeth said shyly. "I begged her not to, so that I could be more recovered when you might come to visit me, as she said you would." Elizabeth colored and looked at her hands. Darcy glanced at Anne and chuckled.

"Yes, I have come regularly since you arrived. Perhaps I might come and visit you again later, when you have had the opportunity to regain your strength?" Darcy felt himself weakening. Her beauty threatened to overwhelm him. How he longed to take her in his arms. He needed to get away for a little while to recollect himself.

"I would like that very much, Mr. Darcy. Thank you," said Elizabeth with a voice that wrapped itself around Darcy's heart.

"Until later, Miss Bennet."

"Very well, Mr. Darcy," she smiled. "Have a good morning."

Darcy shut the door of her room behind him, feeling heady with excitement that she was awake and that she had asked him to stay and talk with her. The musical sound of her voice filled his body. Her eyes were beautiful. Their dark color matched her hair and gave symmetry to her face.

The thought that he had imagined himself in grave danger from a woman that he did not know made him laugh. Nonetheless, he was experiencing an immediate kinship with her. He felt bound to her, that somehow they were connected. He knew she would be gentle, but not passive. She would be confident, but not arrogant. He knew she would be witty and intelligent, but not conceited. She was beautiful, but would not know it herself.

Unfortunately, he knew by now that the younger Miss Bennets had no dowry, no estate to inherit, and no position in fashionable society. As he reflected on his new relationship with Elizabeth, he realized that this had been apparent to him when he found her on the trail. Women of consequence would not feel it appropriate to dare the solitude of the country, let alone go out of doors unaccompanied.

Elizabeth felt that Mr. Darcy held her at quite an advantage. He knew much more of her than she did of him. Consequently, after he had gone away, she began to seek more information about him from Anne.

"Anne, please tell me about Mr. Darcy," asked Elizabeth with a smile.

She looked up from her work, answered Elizabeth with a knowing glance, then said, "I really do not know him. Indeed, we all moved to Netherfield the day he carried you here. I told that you he is always coming to see you."

Always coming to see me, she repeated to herself.

"Anne, he is very handsome and the sound of his voice pleases me," said Elizabeth, rolling onto her side to look at Anne. It seemed to her as though she recognized his voice. He must have spoken to her a great deal during his visits.

"I brought Mr. Darcy here last night when your fever was at its worst. I was very frightened. He held your hand and spoke very softly to you the whole night. It was his idea to cool you with ice."

Elizabeth was a little surprised at the intimacy he assumed with her. "What did he say?"

"I did not hear the words, ma'am, but I remember that the sound was calming and comforting," said Anne, who looked back at her work.

"That I can believe. I feel very safe with him."

Elizabeth settled back into the bed, burrowing deeper under the blankets, content for the moment with what she had learned. He was a handsome man, with a strong build, who carried a determined look in his eye. She felt he was a quiet man, though possessed of great feeling.

Elizabeth tried to understand Mr. Darcy. From what she knew of him he appeared to be very gentlemanly, though not unwilling to defy convention when it suited him. Indeed, his constant attendance on her while she was sleeping could be deemed as too forward, and when he administered the iced and damp cloths, he had gone beyond the bounds of propriety, but it was well. She had no quarrel with him, and if fact was quite grateful. Elizabeth knew she should be on her guard, but how could she resist such a man?

Continued In Next Section