Beginning, Section II

Jump to new as of November 25, 2004
Jump to new as of February 21, 2005

Chapter Nine

Posted on Thursday, 3 June 2004

Elizabeth spent the whole night at her sister's bedside. Shortly after dawn there was a knock at the door and upon answering it she found Mr. Darcy. He had risen early knowing that Elizabeth most likely was still there.

"Good morning Miss Bennet. I hope your sister is doing better."

"She is a little better."

"I am glad to hear it. I was hoping that maybe you would join me on a walk in the gardens. You have been locked up in the house since yesterday morning and would do well to take in some fresh air."

"I believe you are right. Just allow me to get my things."

Elizabeth found a maid to sit with Jane and she went to her room for her gloves and bonnet. She met Darcy in the front hall. They stepped outside and Elizabeth took a deep breath.

"I hope you do not mind my appearance. I have yet to change from last night."

"It does not matter. You always look lovely."

Elizabeth blushed. "I assure you that is not true. You should see me with my hair all tangled after I have slept."

"It would be my pleasure to see you in such a state." Darcy then realized what he had just implied. He looked at Elizabeth and saw that she was blushing. Her eyes were on the ground. "I am sorry, Miss Bennet, that was very improper. I only meant that the state of your clothing or hair does not matter, to me you will always be lovely."

"I thank you sir," she responded demurely.

He took her hand in his. "Would it be too much for me to ask you to call me Fitzwilliam?"

Elizabeth looked at him. "Only if you would call me Elizabeth in return."

He slowly kissed her hand. "It would be my pleasure ... Elizabeth."

"And mine ... Fitzwilliam."

They smiled at each other. Each was pleased to hear their name from the other's lips.

"You must be tired Elizabeth. We should probably return to the house so you may get some rest."

"I am not so very tired."

"Did you not stay awake at your sister's side the whole night?"

"I must admit that I fell asleep in my chair for a good part of the night."

"You are very devoted to your sister."

"I love her dearly. She has such a sweet soul. How could anyone not want to nurse her?"

"Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst may agree that Miss Bennet is sweet but they would not bring themselves to help her. They do not believe your sister is good enough for their brother."

"And what do you think?"

"I believe your sister would be good for Bingley. He has often fallen in and out of love, but I see that it is different with Miss Bennet. He might be inclined to settle down for once. You and your sister are very kind souls, you are not false like the ladies of the ton."

"Does that mean you also approve of me?"

"If I didn't, I would have never asked to court you."

"That is true."

"Elizabeth, have you had anything to eat since dinner?"

"No. I have been too busy with Jane to think of food."

"Then will you join me for some breakfast? Miss Bingley and the Hursts will still be abed. Bingley may be awake but usually I eat breakfast alone."

"Yesterday you were eating breakfast with the others when I arrived."

"Only because I was waiting until the appropriate time to call on you. I had decided to wait it out in the breakfast room. I now realize my mistake in doing so. Miss Bingley and her sister were not at all pleased with your appearance. They thought you impertinent and wild."

"And what did you think of me?"

"I thought it was quite admirable for you to walk all that way to visit your ill sister. Also your fine eyes were very bright due to the exercise."

"You think my eyes are fine?"

"For me your eyes are the finest I have ever seen. They are most beautiful when you are teasing me as you are now, but they are not your only fine feature."

Darcy would have continued praising Elizabeth's features but they arrived at the breakfast room to find Bingley as the only occupant. Elizabeth gave him the same answer to his inquires about Jane as she had given to Darcy. She then requested to have a note sent to Longbourn, desiring her mother to visit Jane to form her own judgment of her situation. Bingley, of course, sent a note immediately. The three spent a pleasant breakfast talking about Jane and, to her embarrassment, Elizabeth's qualities.

They were later joined by Miss Bingley and the Hursts. Elizabeth excused herself to bathe and dress. Miss Bingley was about to voice her opinion on Elizabeth's dress but thought better of it when she remembered what Mr. Darcy had said the evening before.

Late in the morning a carriage from Longbourn arrived. It did not bring Mrs. Bennet as Elizabeth had requested, but her father. Mr. Bennet was shown to Jane's room where he found Jane to be much recovered from her fever the night before. Mr. Jones, who had also arrived, advised that Jane should not be moved at this time. Mr. Bennet agreed that Jane should spend one more night, but that Elizabeth should come home with him.

"Papa, I would be of more use here with Jane than I would be at Longbourn. Can I not stay with my sister?" Elizabeth asked her father in earnest. She did not want to leave Jane to the care of Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst.

"I'm sorry Lizzy. I had not expected you to stay at Netherfield. It is very improper for you to be staying in the same house as Mr. Darcy."

"It is not as though I am the only lady here. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst are adequate chaperones."

"I'm quite sure Miss Bingley would not allow any lady to be left alone with Mr. Darcy, with the exception of herself, of course."

"Papa!"

"Lizzy, you are coming home with me. I will hear no more of this." Mr. Bennet left Jane's room to tell Bingley of his decision.

Elizabeth looked to her sister, who was sleeping, and sighed. At least he could let me stay until Jane wakes. She gathered her belongings and packed them in her trunk. She sat down next to her sister and awaited her father's return.

Mr. Bennet returned with two footmen and a maid. He directed the footmen to bring Elizabeth's trunk down to the carriage. The maid took Elizabeth's seat as the latter followed her father downstairs. Mr. Bingley and Miss Bingley were waiting for them.

"Miss Bennet," Mr. Bingley said. "It has been a delight to have you here to care for your sister. I wager that it was due to your vigilance over her that she is regaining her health. Mr. Darcy told me that you stayed up all night with your sister."

"Oh, how admirable of you Miss Eliza," Miss Bingley added, "staying up with dear Jane when she is ill."

"Thank you Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley for your hospitality in letting me stay at Netherfield. I hope you take good care of my sister."

Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth took their leave. As they were entering the carriage, Elizabeth wondered where Mr. Darcy had gone. Once they were both seated in the carriage, Mr. Bennet questioned his daughter about her stay.

"So Lizzy, did you enjoy your time with Mr. Darcy?"

"I barely saw Mr. Darcy. I saw him at dinner yesterday evening, and for the short time I was in the drawing room afterwards. Everyone was at loo so I only sat and watched. This morning I had breakfast with Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley."

"How did Mr. Darcy know that you stayed with your sister during the night?"

"He assumed so and I confirmed it when he mentioned I must be tired due to being up all night."

"You were never alone with Mr. Darcy?"

"We went on a short walk in the garden before breakfast, but we were never out of sight of the house. Mr. Darcy has been the perfect gentleman throughout our acquaintance."

"I'm glad to hear it."

Nothing more was said on Mr. Darcy and the rest of the trip to Longbourn was spent on bringing Elizabeth up to date on the goings on at home.

Posted on Thursday, 10 June 2004

Darcy had been surprised and disappointed when he discovered Elizabeth had left Netherfield. At first he was hurt that she had not said good-bye to him, but then he learned from Bingley that Mr. Bennet had rushed her out of the house. He planned to call on her the next day but did not when he noticed that Bingley was pacing the house like a caged animal. Instead he spent the day hunting with Bingley and Hurst.

It was a good thing he did, for when they returned they learned from Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst that Mrs. Bennet and two of her daughters had paid a visit. She had proclaimed that Jane was more ill than Mr. Bennet had described and that Jane would have to stay longer at Netherfield.

Of course Darcy realized straight away that it was just a ploy to keep Jane in Bingley's company for longer, but Bingley became even more concerned about Jane's health.

The following few days, Darcy found himself keeping Bingley occupied. He had no time to visit Elizabeth and this greatly depressed him. His concern for his friend was important and he knew he would always be able to visit his beloved once Jane had returned to health. That reasoning was the only thing that kept Darcy from riding to Longbourn and leaving his friend to deal with his distress on his own. But then he realized that he would not want to be left in the company of Bingley's sisters while feeling such distress over someone he cared for greatly, so he stayed with Charles to help him not to think about Jane. It was harder than Darcy had realized.

Finally, Mr. Jones declared Jane well enough to travel and Bingley made his carriage available to take her home. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst spent the rest of the day complaining about the inconvenience that the Bennets had caused them. Darcy and Bingley decided to call at Longbourn the following day to see how Jane was faring and, of course, so Darcy could see his Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was not in a good humor. She was angry with her father for rushing her from Netherfield. She was also angry with Mr. Darcy for not calling on her for several days. However, despite her bad humor she was glad to see that Jane was well and had returned home.

She and her sisters decided to walk to Meryton. It was a wonderful autumn afternoon and the exercise would help Elizabeth relieve some of her anger. She spent the entire walk talking to Jane. Upon arriving at Meryton, Lydia and Kitty immediately spotted Mr. Denny, who had been away in London for some time. He was with a handsome young gentleman to whom the two girls wished to be introduced. On the pretense of wanting to look in the window of the shop the two gentlemen were passing, the five Bennet girls, led by Lydia and Kitty, met up with Mr. Denny and his acquaintance.

Mr. Denny introduced the young gentleman to the Miss Bennets as Mr. Wickham, who was to join the militia in Meryton. This information made the two youngest Bennet girls very happy. As Lydia and Kitty flirted with Denny and Wickham, two riders approached the group. Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley had been riding through Meryton on their way to Longbourn when they had spotted the Miss Bennets.

Bingley had immediately dismounted to talk to Jane, but Darcy had noticed Wickham before he had followed Bingley. Darcy looked angrily at Wickham while Wickham looked back with surprise and just a bit of fear. He gave Darcy a nod of greeting which Darcy did not return. Darcy had thought to ride on but then he realized that Elizabeth was among the group. So, to Wickham's surprise, Darcy dismounted and walked over to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth had seen the exchange between Darcy and Wickham and was quite curious about their actions. She was still angry with Darcy, but was glad to see him dismount, for she had doubted for a moment whether he would. He came towards her, took her hand and kissed it.

"Elizabeth," Darcy said in a low voice so that no one but she could hear. "I must apologize for not calling on you since your departure from Netherfield. I have been occupied with Mr. Bingley. He has been quite depressed by your sister's illness."

Elizabeth was no longer angry with Darcy. She now realized her selfishness in the situation. Of course Darcy would be concerned for his friend.

"I accept your apology, Fitzwilliam."

She smiled at him and he could not help but step closer. He then remembered that Wickham was there.

"Elizabeth, I must warn you about Mr. Wickham. He is not a good man. I cannot explain right now, but if you would meet me on Oakham Mount tomorrow morning, I will explain. You must keep an eye on your sisters when in his company."

Elizabeth was concerned. Darcy sounded very grave. There was obviously some animosity between Darcy and Wickham. She was very curious to find out why.

"Of course, I'll meet you. I wanted to apologise for leaving Netherfield without saying good-bye."

Darcy smiled at her. "No need to. I understand why you didn't. Your father obviously thought that you were in danger being in my company all day."

"I don't know what has got into my father lately. He should be happy that I have found someone who is intelligent, gentlemanly and very rich," she teased. "Not to mention handsome..."

"You think I'm handsome?" Darcy asked smiling.

Elizabeth laughed which caught the attention of Wickham.

"If I didn't, do you think I would allow you to court me?"

"So you only care about a man's appearance?"

"Of course!"

The mischievous smile that Darcy gave Elizabeth made him look boyish which she found very charming.

"Well then, I will have to make sure no other handsome men come near you."

"You do not have to worry, Fitzwilliam, for I find you the most handsome man in England."

"Then I will only have to be wary of foreigners."

Elizabeth laughed once more. By this time Wickham had moved as close as possible to them so that he could overhear their conversation. He was quite surprised by what he heard. Darcy flirting with a young lady? I had thought it impossible.

"You need not worry about foreigners, either."

"I believe now, Elizabeth, that I do not have to worry about you being attracted to other men. However, since you are more beautiful than any other lady of my acquaintance I shall be worried about other men pursuing you."

Elizabeth blushed and looked away. Darcy then noticed a look of shock on her face. He looked in the direction she had turned and saw Wickham was close enough to eavesdrop. By the look on Wickham's face Darcy was able to determine that that was exactly what Wickham was doing.

Before Darcy could do or say anything, they were interrupted by Bingley who stated that he had offered to walk the ladies home after their visit with their aunt. Darcy was glad that his friend had done so. He could make sure that Wickham stayed away from all of the Miss Bennets, for naturally he would accompany Bingley in escorting the young ladies that afternoon.

Denny and Wickham decided to take their leave at that moment, to the disappointment of Lydia and Kitty, who unsuccessfully tried to invite them to their aunt's. Darcy and Bingley escorted the sisters to Mrs. Philips house where they were invited to join them the following evening for a night of cards - an invitation they both accepted. They did however decline an invitation to join them at that moment for they both thought it would be inappropriate to intrude on a family visit that was originally attended for other guests. They did promise to return to walk the young ladies back to Longbourn in two hours and spent those two hours enjoying a ride in the countryside around Meryton.

They returned at the promised time, but found the ladies not yet ready to leave. The hour for tea was approaching and the ladies' aunt entreated the gentlemen to stay for tea. This invitation they accepted.

If any of Darcy's other acquaintances had seen him at the Philips' house, they would have been quite surprised that a man of his stature would find himself in such quarters. Darcy, however, had paid no attention to anything but Elizabeth and never even noticed the lower living conditions.

He sat with Elizabeth on a small sofa. For the first few minutes, as tea was being served by Mrs. Philips, Darcy looked only at Elizabeth. Elizabeth was becoming self-conscious at his stare.

"Mr. Darcy, do you stare at me so that may find something to ridicule?" she asked teasingly.

He grinned at her. "Elizabeth," he whispered, "I stare because I cannot take my eyes from you. You have quite bewitched me."

Elizabeth looked down at her teacup. "Fitzwilliam, if you continue to praise me in such a way, I shall become very vain."

His grin deepened, showing his dimples, which Elizabeth had never noticed before. She found them quite becoming on him. "You could never become vain. You are too pure of heart for such unfavorable traits."

"If you put me so high a pedestal you will be unable to reach me."

"You need not worry, for when I am in your presence I feel as though I could do anything. I will climb to the top of your pedestal if I must."

By this time, Elizabeth had blushed such a deep shade of red that the rest of the party had noticed. Jane cleared her throat, which got Darcy's attention, and he noticed that he and his beloved were under scrutiny by all. He quickly took a sip of his tea and asked Mrs. Philips how she liked living in Meryton. The rest of tea was spent chatting on all sorts of matters that Darcy could not remember. He did not venture to talk to Elizabeth privately again.

After tea, Darcy and Bingley escorted the ladies to Longbourn. Once again, Darcy did not try for a private conversation with his Elizabeth. Instead he made every attempt to include others in his conversation. Elizabeth was quite relieved, for she was uncomfortable with what Darcy had divulged. She needed time to think about her relationship with him as she was not exactly sure of her feelings for Darcy. All she knew was that she greatly enjoyed his company and that when he was not there she thought of nothing else but him. Am I in love? Elizabeth had much to think about and it was best she thought it all through before their meeting on Oakham Mount the following morning.

Arriving at Longbourn, Darcy and Bingley were invited to stay for dinner. Darcy had wanted to give some time for Elizabeth to think about what he had said, but since Bingley had accepted the invitation, he also accepted. Elizabeth did not mind, she always enjoyed Darcy's company. The evening was spent pleasantly and after the two gentlemen took their leave, Elizabeth went to her room to think. She lay in her bed for many hours trying to sort out her feelings for Darcy. Finally, well after midnight, she fell into a peaceful sleep her dreams filled with the man she now knew she loved.

Chapter 11

Posted on Wednesday, 14 July 2004

"Mr. Wickham is the son of my late father's steward. My father was Mr. Wickham's god-father and trusted him implicitly. He supported him at school, and afterwards at Cambridge, for his own father - always poor from the extravagance of his wife - would have been unable to give him a gentleman's education. Mr. Wickham's manners were always engaging and my father had the highest opinion of him, always enjoying his company. He wished that Wickham would make the Church his profession and he intended to provide him with a living when it became available."

Darcy paused. He and Elizabeth were at the top of Oakham Mount. They were both sitting on the ground, close to each other. Of course Darcy had offered his coat for her to sit on but she had refused. Her dress was already dirty from walking, so she did not mind getting more dirt on it, if Darcy did not mind. Of course he did not mind - to him her disheveled appearance was rather appealing. He was about to continue his tale when Elizabeth interrupted him.

"If Mr. Wickham expects to gain a living, why did he join the militia?"

"I was getting to that point."

"I am sorry. Pray continue."

"From almost the beginning I had known the true nature of Wickham, to which my father was blind. The vicious propensities - the want of principle, which he was careful to guard from the knowledge of his best friend, could not escape the observation of a young man of nearly the same age with himself. I had many opportunities of seeing him in unguarded moments, which my father could not have."

Darcy paused again, but only because the next part was painful to speak about. Elizabeth read this in his eyes. She placed her hand upon his and gave it a squeeze.

"You do not have to tell me anything you do not want to."

"I want to tell you this. You must know Mr. Wickham's character. It is hard for me to talk about this to anyone. You do make it easier, especially when your hand is upon mine."

She left her hand on his and waited patiently for him to continue.

"My father died five years ago. His attachment to Wickham was strong to the end. He never learned Wickham's true nature. In his will my father recommended to me that I help Mr. Wickham in his chosen profession. If Wickham took orders and desired the living, I should grant it to him when it was vacant. There was also a legacy of one thousand pounds. Mr. Wickham wrote to inform me that, having resolved against taking orders, he was to study the law and wished that I would support him in his cause. I wished to believe that he was sincere. I knew that he ought not to be a clergyman."

"Why not?"

"What?"

"Why did you think he should not be a clergyman?"

"I thought I explained that."

"You did?"

"Yes when I mentioned his vicious propensities and want of principle."

"Well I do not understand what you mean by that. Was he ungentlemanly?"

"He was definitely no gentleman. He gambled, he drank, and he..."

"He?"

"I can not speak of it to a lady. It is indecent."

"Oh."

Darcy waited and when he received no more questions he continued. "Wickham received three thousand pounds and resigned his claim on the living. All connections between us were then dissolved. I thought too ill of him to invite him to Pemberley, or admit his society in town. Studying the law was a pretense. Being free from all restraints, Wickham's life became one of idleness and dissipation. For three years I heard little of him. When the living became vacant Wickham wrote to me once more. His circumstances were bad. He had found the law a most unprofitable study and was now absolutely resolved on being ordained."

"You refused, did you not?"

"Yes I refused to give him the living. He had given up his chance by receiving the three thousand pounds. From that time he hated me and most likely abused me to others. I know not how he survived, but once again he disappeared."

He stopped for a moment. Elizabeth knew she should not speak. He needed a moment before he could continue. She squeezed his hand once again, bringing her other hand to move a wayward curl from his forehead. He looked at her with an expression that Elizabeth thought might be love. Does he love me in return?

Without taking his eyes from hers he continued. "This past summer, I would wish to forget. The only thing that brought me through it was the thought of seeing you again. By that time I had planned to find you no matter what I would have to do. I was with Bingley, looking at estates. While I was away, my sister, who I have told you about, went to Ramsgate with her governess. There too went Mr. Wickham, whom I found later was previously acquainted with Mrs. Younge. She had recommended Mr. Wickham to Georgiana, whose affectionate heart retained a strong impression of his kindness to her as a child. She was persuaded to believe herself in love." Elizabeth squeezed his hand tightly. "She consented to an elopement."

"She is fifteen?"

"Yes, which must be her excuse for being naive."

"She eloped with Wickham?"

"No. I arrived unexpectedly at Ramsgate a day or two before their intended elopement. Georgiana, who looks up to me not only as a brother, but also as a father, told me everything. You may imagine what I felt and how I acted."

"I am surprised that Mr. Wickham still lives."

Darcy smiled at her. "That thought had crossed my mind, but what would happen to my estate if I ended up in prison or dead? And what would happen to you?"

"I am quite sure I would have survived," she teased.

"Really? You would not miss my company?"

"No," she answered in a very unconvincing lie.

"You are lying."

"What happened? Did you beat Mr. Wickham?"

"Do you promote violence?"

"Not unless it is necessary."

"I did not beat Wickham. He had left the place immediately. Mrs. Younge was removed from her charge, of course. Georgiana learned a hard lesson. She had truly thought that Wickham loved her. To find out that he did not and that he had only convinced her he did so that he could have my sister's fortune, which is thirty thousand pounds, mortified her."

"Do you think he might have also done it to anger you?"

"That thought had crossed my mind. It might even have been his stronger motive. I do not know for sure."

"How is your sister?"

"She is doing better than she was directly after the incident. She is currently in London with her new Governess, a Mrs. Annesley. I had planned on bringing her here, but now that Wickham is in residence I do not believe it would be a good idea."

"She should not live her life afraid of Mr. Wickham. You should proceed with your plans. I would greatly like to meet Miss Darcy. If you wish I will remain in her company at social gatherings and keep Wickham at bay."

Darcy scowled. "You are right, she should not be afraid of Wickham. I will write to her and ask if she would be willing to visit even if Wickham is in the neighborhood. I will also write that you wish to meet her. She may be willing to face Wickham with you and me at her side. But I do not wish to leave either of you alone, or even together, in his company. If he is in our society I would prefer that you stay near me."

"Really? I believe I can take care of myself," Elizabeth teased lightly.

Darcy scowled even more. "Wickham saw us together yesterday. He may try something to get to me. I do not want you to get hurt."

Elizabeth could see the concern in his eyes so she just nodded her head. She squeezed his hand once again. He lifted her hand to his mouth and kissed it.

After several moments of just holding hands, Elizabeth spoke up, "I had better return home. I have been gone for far too long."

"You are right. We will see each other tonight at the Philips'."

Darcy escorted Elizabeth back to Longbourn. He took his leave, while both were wondering when they should tell the other how they felt.

Elizabeth thought it best she wait for Darcy, while Darcy was not sure about Elizabeth's feelings and thought it best to wait until he was. Both thought that the time would come soon and nothing could go wrong.

The Bennet's arrived at the Philips after all but the Netherfield party had arrived. Elizabeth was eagerly awaiting Darcy's appearance. She was sitting on a sofa near the fireplace when Mr. Wickham sat beside her. At first he seemed absorbed in watching those in attendance, but then he turned towards her. Elizabeth was not at all happy with this turn of events.

"How long have Mr. Bingley and his friends been in the neighborhood?"

Elizabeth considered not answering him, but realized that would be very rude. "About a month," she answered concisely.

"Is Netherfield very far from Meryton?"

"About two miles."

Elizabeth focused her attention on Mary playing the piano, trying to dismiss Wickham. Of course this did not work.

"Do you know Mr. Darcy very well?"

Elizabeth did not know if she should answer that question. Just as she was about to make a response, Mr. Darcy himself answered. He had just arrived with the Netherfield party and as soon as he saw that Wickham was with Elizabeth he made his way towards them. He only heard Wickham's last question.

"I am courting Miss Elizabeth."

Wickham was startled to see Darcy. He had been focusing on Miss Elizabeth and had not noticed Darcy's approach. Wickham stood up quickly.

"I, uh, need to speak to Denny. Please excuse me." He directed all of his speech to Elizabeth. He did not even glance at Darcy.

After Wickham had walked away, Darcy took the seat next to Elizabeth. His hand gently brushed hers - purposely. He wanted to hold her hand. He knew it was improper to do so, even if they were courting, at least it was improper in society. Actually he really wanted to kiss her, but that would have to wait until he proposed.

Elizabeth was staring at him. She was very glad he had arrived when he did. She did not want to be in Wickham's company. She smiled at Darcy with such gratitude that Darcy stopped caring about propriety and took her hand into his. As he brought her hand to his lips Elizabeth's eyes widened in surprise. When he did not release her hand afterwards she spoke to him.

"Fitzwilliam, it is improper," she whispered.

He just smiled at her. "Elizabeth, I wish we could be alone right now."

"What?" she asked, a little nervous.

"I wanted to talk to you about... I cannot to talk to you here."

"We were alone just this morning. You have more you wish to say to me?"

"Elizabeth, I always wish to speak to you alone," he answered smiling.

Elizabeth blushed. "Mr. Darcy you are quite forward this evening."

"It is hard not to be forward when you are in love." His voice was so quiet that Elizabeth almost did not hear him. She stared at him in shock.

"You are in love?" she asked just as quietly.

"Yes, my dear Elizabeth, I am in love. I am in love with you."

"I... I do not know what to say."

"You do not?" he asked teasingly.

She blushed again. "We are not alone."

"Do you wish we were alone?"

"Yes," she was able to get out before Mrs. Bennet came over. They passed an hour with Mrs. Bennet questioning Darcy on every aspect of his life that she had yet to ask. Both Elizabeth and Darcy could not wait until she took her leave of them to speak to someone else. When she finally did leave, they were approached by Charlotte; then Mrs. Philips. For the rest of the evening they had no time to even speak to each other, alone or otherwise. Both were very disappointed, and before Elizabeth departed, Darcy promised to call on her on the morrow.

Chapter 12

Posted on Wednesday, 25 August 2004

While Darcy was calling upon Miss Bennet in Hertfordshire, Lady Catherine was being called upon by a Mr. Wickham, a name she did not recognize. After telling her butler to remove the man from Rosings, she returned to her tea without another thought of her unexpected caller. She was therefore quite perturbed when the butler returned with a note and the request that Lady Catherine read it. She did so to be rid of the man, but what she read alarmed her to such an extent that she instructed her butler to show Mr. Wickham into the sitting room.

It had been a long time since Wickham had last been inside Rosings. He noticed that nothing had changed. The house was still as pretentious as ever and Lady Catherine was her usual self.

Lady Catherine did not stand to greet her guest for she still did not know who he was. She was not going to show any courtesy to a man who just might be bamboozling her. She decided to come directly to the point.

"In your note you said that you have recently seen my nephew in the company of a young lady, and you assert that he is courting her. Where was it that you saw him?"

Wickham sat on a sofa opposite Lady Catherine. He was quite at his ease and took his time answering her question.

"I saw them together at a Mrs. Philips' house in Meryton. Mrs. Philips is the young lady's aunt."

"In Meryton? I have never heard of any place by the name of Meryton."

"It is a small town near Netherfield, where Mr. Darcy is staying with his friend Mr. Bingley."

"And this young lady, she lives in Meryton?"

"No. She lives on her father's estate, Longbourn."

"And does she have a fortune?"

"Almost none. She has four sisters and no brothers. Her father's estate is entailed-"

"You do not mean Miss Elizabeth Bennet, do you?"

"Exactly, my Lady. Mr. Darcy himself told me that he was courting Miss Elizabeth."

"He did? At this Mrs. Whomever's house?"

"Yes. He has been seen with her a great deal."

"Mr. Wickham, do you know a Miss Caroline Bingley?"

"Yes, she is Mr. Bingley's sister."

"My nephew is staying at his house, you say?"

"Yes, my Lady."

"So her accounts were correct. She wrote to me a week ago, informing me that Mr. Darcy was seen much in company with a young chit. It appears that she was telling me the truth."

"I believe, my Lady, that Mr. Darcy may be proposing to Miss Bennet very shortly. I heard him declare his love for her."

"You did? How did you hear this?"

"He did not realize I was standing behind him as he spoke quietly to her. They were holding hands and he told her that he loved her. He plans to call on her this morning. Of course I immediately came here as soon as I heard him declare thus."

"You believe he will propose to her today then?"

"It is most likely my Lady."

"Then I shall go to Hertfordshire post-haste. You will attend me."

Lady Catherine stood as the butler returned. "You will have my carriage ready," she ordered. The befuddled butler left to do as she ordered.

Mr. Wickham did not move. "Will I be compensated for my disclosure and attendance?"

"What?" Lady Catherine turned to him. "Oh yes of course. What are you asking?"

"Three thousand pounds."

"Three thousand pounds!" Lady Catherine fell back into her seat quite shocked. "You are asking for three thousand pounds for information that had already been disclosed to me?"

"But my Lady did not believe this disclosure until she heard it from myself."

"Well I will not pay three thousand pounds!"

"Then I will go to London. I am quite sure that many of the society papers would pay such a sum."

Her ladyship thought it over. Three thousand pounds was not as great a sum as she had thought. She wrote a cheque to him for the amount as they waited for the carriage to be readied. They then made their way to Hertfordshire at a much slower pace than Mr. Wickham had made to Rosings.

Darcy's plan to call on Elizabeth was thwarted by none other than Mr. Bingley who decided to make calls throughout the area to deliver invitations for a ball. He requested that Darcy join him and his sisters for these calls. They did not stay long at Longbourn when they had finally made their way to that estate, and upon their arrival Darcy was disappointed to find that Elizabeth was out walking. He left a message with Miss Bennet that he planned to call on the following day.

These plans, too, were thwarted when it rained everyday from then to the ball. The day before the ball Darcy decided to go to Longbourn despite the rain. His sister, Georgiana had arrived late in the morning and she was eager to meet Miss Elizabeth. Shortly after luncheon the two set out for Longbourn in Darcy's carriage.

Upon their arrival they found the house in an uproar. Miss Lydia and Miss Kitty had been in high dudgeon all morning over which dress was whose, with Lydia claiming that a particular green muslin dress belonged to her and Kitty claiming likewise it was hers. In truth the dress was Elizabeth's but she had escaped to her father's study and had not noticed the source of the argument. Mrs. Bennet had taken to her room with a headache. Mr. Bennet was in his study working on estate papers.

Jane and Mary were the only Bennets available to greet Mr. and Miss Darcy. After Darcy introduced the two sisters to his own sister, Lydia came bursting into the sitting room holding the dress in question, with Kitty following. Kitty was screaming for Lydia to give it back, while Lydia was stating that Kitty looked horrid in green. Neither of the two arguing sisters noticed the Darcys. Jane was trying her best to get them to settle down without success.

Elizabeth heard the loud yelling of her two sisters and decided to bring an end to it. She entered the sitting room to find Mr. Darcy looking quite shocked and a young lady who was also surprised but more demure. She turned to Lydia and Kitty who were now playing tug-of-war with her dress, while Jane did her best to ask them politely to stop.

"Kitty! Lydia! We have guests." Elizabeth walked over to them as they stopped to look at her. She then noticed her dress. "What are you two doing? Are you trying to destroy my dress?"

Lydia and Kitty both looked at the dress at the same time, both coming to the realization that it was not their dress they had been fighting over, but Lizzy's. They both dropped it at the same time. Elizabeth picked up the wrinkled dress, folded it and placed it on a nearby table. She then turned to Mr. Darcy.

"Mr. Darcy I apologize for my sisters' behavior."

"You do not need to apologize for their behavior Miss Bennet. It is they who should do so."

"You are quite right." Elizabeth turned to her two sisters, who, under Elizabeth's glare, quickly gave an apology and then left the room.

"Miss Bennet," Darcy addressed Elizabeth. "I would like to introduce you to my sister, Georgiana."

Elizabeth curtsied and Miss Darcy returned it. "Please seat yourselves. I will have tea brought in. We did not expect visitors on such a rainy day."

"We just could not wait for the weather to change to come for a visit," responded Mr. Darcy as he sat on a sofa near where Elizabeth stood. Miss Darcy sat herself next to her brother. She was feeling shy after such an outburst of chaos from the Bennet sisters. She was also surprised by her brother's easy manner. She concluded that it was Miss Elizabeth's presence that made him this way.

Elizabeth left the room to order tea. While she was gone, Jane made inquiries about the rest of the Netherfield party. Darcy saw that she really only wanted to know about Bingley and answered thus:

"Mr. Bingley has not been himself these past few days, quite restless in fact. I believe that not being able to call upon others due to the weather has caused him to be in a rather irritating mood."

Jane, of course, understood what Mr. Darcy meant. She smiled at him and responded, "I hope he has not been as bad as that."

Just then Elizabeth returned to the room, with a maid following with tea. Elizabeth sat in a chair near Darcy, while Jane went about the business of serving tea to their guests and themselves. During tea they talked of the weather, the ball, and asked Miss Darcy questions about herself. This led to the topic of music, which was the only part of the conversation that Mary attended to. During the entire visit there was no opportunity for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth to have a private conversation.

Darcy had planned to propose to Elizabeth before the ball so that they might announce it there. Now he would have to wait until the ball to ask her. It would perhaps be possible for him to ask her father's permission and still be able to announce the engagement during the ball. As the Darcy's travelled back to Netherfield in their carriage, Mr. Darcy came up with several different scenarios for how this could be accomplished. He hoped that one of them would come to fruition.

Mr. Wickham was not having a good week. He had just lost a hundred pounds playing piquet with Lady Catherine today and two hundred yesterday.

Due to Lady Catherine's request for a slow pace her carriage had stopped at an inn on the way to Hertfordshire. When they awoke the next morning to rain she decided it was best not to travel. It was now two days later and the rain had not diminished, so Mr. Wickham was left with the duty of entertaining Lady Catherine in the shared parlor during their prolonged stay at the inn. He did not like it at all.

Finally on the fourth day the rain had stopped and the weather had turned into a warm autumn day. Perfect weather for travelling. It was slow going due to the mud, but they finally made it to Hertfordshire and arrived at Netherfield by nightfall.

They were somewhat surprised when arriving at Netherfield to see many carriages were lined up to let out their occupants. There seemed to be a large party at Netherfield this night.

They waited for some time for their carriage to reach the front doors of Netherfield where a footman opened their door and handed Lady Catherine from the carriage. Mr. Wickham descended from the carriage without assistance, he was very eager to stretch his legs. As he was doing so, Mr. Denny approached him.

"Lord, Wickham what have you been about? Disappearing and returning in a regal carriage. Where did you go? Colonel Forster is not too happy. You had best not let him see you."

"Denny, I have had a ghastly time. I was stuck entertaining Lady Catherine de Bourgh at an inn these past few days. We were unable to travel due to the rain."

"Why ever were you with Lady Catherine?"

"Mr. Darcy is her nephew. I had informed her of his impending nuptials. She paid me a fine price to escort her to Hertfordshire so that she may visit with her nephew."

"Mr. Darcy's aunt? Why ever would you inform her of his betrothal?"

"Because he is betrothed to Lady Catherine's daughter."

"A fitting revenge then?"

"Very fitting. He ended my betrothal to his sister and I will end his betrothal to Miss Bennet."

"All is fair in love and war."

Lady Catherine then called upon Wickham to escort her into the house. He complied and let her hold his arm as they walked up the steps. Upon entering the house they found a receiving line and made their way towards it. When they reached Mrs. Hurst she was quite surprised to see two people she did not recognize.

"Mrs. Hurst I am Mr. Wickham from the Militia. This is Lady Catherine de Bourgh."

Upon hearing this Miss Bingley turned towards her, forgetting to welcome the Lucases. "Lady Catherine! It is such a surprise to see you here. I had not expected you to travel all this way. I am Miss Bingley and this here is my sister Mrs. Hurst."

"Where is my nephew?" Lady Catherine commanded. "Where is Mr. Darcy?"

"Aunt Catherine!" exclaimed a surprised voice. "What are you doing here?"

Chapter 13

Posted on Tuesday, 23 November 2004

Darcy paced the entrance of the Netherfield ballroom. He was eagerly anticipating Elizabeth's arrival. Bingley and his sisters were greeting the arriving guests, with Miss Bingley constantly looking Darcy's way. He did not notice this but Miss Darcy did. She was standing near her brother, trying her best to calm him.

"Why are you so nervous Fitzwilliam?"

"I am not nervous."

"You are. Do you fear Miss Bennet will decline your proposal?"

"Yes. No." He stopped and turned to glare at his sister. "What makes you think I plan to propose tonight?"

"Why else would you be pacing the floor? I know you love her very much. She also loves you. I do not believe you have anything to fear."

"I thought I would never have to see the day when I would need my little sister's support. Thank you Georgiana." He pressed his sister's hand and smiled at her. "You must reserve me a dance."

"Dance? I am not out yet."

"I believe you can be allowed one dance with your brother."

"Thank you Fitzwilliam."

At that moment there was a loud commotion as the Bennet family arrived. Mr. Darcy immediately looked for Elizabeth and found her. He took her hand, bowed over it and kissed it.

"Miss Bennet, may I have the pleasure of the first dance?"

"Of course," she smiled.

He led her to the floor as the first set of the evening was beginning.

"Miss Bennet, you look very beautiful this evening," Darcy said as they danced.

"Thank you, Mr. Darcy."

Of course this was not what Darcy wished to talked about but he could hardly ask for her hand whilst they danced. Instead he waited until the set was done and asked her to join him on a stroll about the room. As they reached the door to a hallway which Darcy was to lead her out, Mr. Bennet came upon them.

"Lizzy, I believe you mother wishes to speak to you on some urgent business," Mr. Bennet said. He glared at Darcy as he did so.

"Mr. Darcy if you will excuse me, I should go find my mother," Elizabeth spoke to Darcy.

"Yes, of course." Darcy bowed over her hand and then watched her go. He was about to continue on to find his sister when Mr. Bennet spoke up.

"I wish to speak to you Mr. Darcy. I believe there is a place where we can find some privacy?"

"Mr. Bingley's study is just across the hall."

Darcy led Mr. Bennet across the hall to the study. A fire was lit as if they were expected. Darcy did not wish for Elizabeth to be cold while he proposed, but that was now all delayed.

"Mr. Darcy I believe you know the reason why I wish to speak to you."

"I do not, sir."

"You do not? It has to do with the way you are treating my daughter. You are publicly compromising her with your stares and indecent holding of hands. I will not have it! I do not wish to see you any where near my daughter for the rest of your stay in Hertfordshire. You will leave her alone."

"Mr. Bennet, I love your daughter. I planned on asking for her hand this very evening-"

"You will not! Do you think I would allow you to marry her? You are lucky that I allowed you to court her. The courtship is over. Go find some other lady you can trifle with."

"I was not trifling with Miss Elizabeth. I am quite serious about my intentions."

"It does not matter. My daughter deserves better than you. I understand how the London ton can be. You probably have a mistress. I will not allow my daughter to be used to breed heirs. She will be married for who she is."

"By marrying Elizabeth I will be going expressly against the wishes of my family and friends and, I hardly need that, my own better judgment. The relative situation of our families is such that any alliance between us must be regarded as a highly reprehensible connection. The lack of a dowry of significant would be degradation to my status as a man of prestige and wealth. Almost from the earliest moments of our acquaintance I have come to feel for your daughter a passionate admiration and regard. Elizabeth is no lady to purely beget heirs; I would not wish to marry her if that were the case. The only reason I can understand is that my love for her can, despite all my struggles, overcome my rational thoughts. That she is much more than a lady to give me children, but a lady to live with and to share my life with. You may not understand this since your own marriage intolerable to you. Elizabeth is anything but intolerable. And I will have her as my wife no matter what you have to say on the matter."

By the time Darcy finished his speak Mr. Bennet was fuming. "How dare you talk of my daughter as if she is beneath you! I should tell her what you had to say on the subject." With that Mr. Bennet left the room.

"What did I just do?"

Elizabeth was also having a bad evening. Her mother did wish to speak to her... on the subject on how to catch Mr. Darcy as her husband.

"You must go to the conservatory with Mr. Darcy. There you will allow him some liberties. A kiss. Yes that will do nicely. I will arrive there in fifteen minutes and catch him compromising you. Then he will have to marry you."

Elizabeth just sighed heavily and walked away. She went looking for Darcy, but could not find him. Instead she ended up dancing a set with Mr. Denney. As the set came to an end, her father came to her and pulled her aside.

"Lizzy, you will have nothing more to do with Mr. Darcy."

"Papa! Mr. Darcy is courting me. I cannot just ignore him."

"Your courtship is over. I have already spoken to him on the matter. If you knew what he truly thinks of you then you would have ended it on your own."

"What do you mean?"

"He doesn't think very highly of your family. He believes that the match is reprehensible."

"Reprehensible?"

"Those were his words. You will stay away from him." Mr. Bennet then continued on to find some amusement in the card room.

Elizabeth was not sure what to do or think. Does Fitzwilliam truly believe a match between us is reprehensible? She continued on her search for Mr. Darcy to ask him herself.

"Fitzwilliam." Darcy was stopped by his sister calling his name as he reentered the ballroom.

"What is it Georgiana?"

"I must speak to you."

"What?"

"In private."

Darcy led her into the study in which he had just vacated. He sat down and watched his sister pace as she tried to find her words. "Georgiana?"

"You cannot marry Miss Bennet."

"What? Why? Do you not like her?"

"She is pleasant enough. But she plans on catching you into a marriage through deceit."

"What do you mean?"

"I over heard her talking to her mother. They were planning on having you caught compromising her and being forced into marriage."

"But I wish to marry her. There would be no forcing."

"But everyone we know will believe otherwise. Do you wish to be known as a man forced into marriage because you compromised an innocent?"

"Georgiana, what do you know of such matters."

"I'm not as innocent as you think. Not anymore. I do not wish to be caught by some gentleman again."

"Are you sure Miss Bennet is part of the planning?"

"I heard her mother tell her to take you to the conservatory. She is to give you the liberty to kiss her. He mother will then arrive to catch you and force you into marriage."

"And what did Elizabeth say about these plans?"

"She said nothing. She just went looking for you."

"I will not believe Miss Bennet is a part of this planning. I will go find her and ask her myself." Darcy left the room to go looking for Elizabeth. He found her talking to Jane.

"Miss Bennet, can I speak with you for a moment?"

Elizabeth hesitated before answering. "Yes."

Darcy was leading her towards the study when he realized that Georgiana might still be there and that Mr. Bennet might find them. "We cannot go to the study. We must find some other location."

"What about the conservatory?" Elizabeth suggested. "It's at the back of the house. No one will disturb us there."

Darcy hesitated. "Yes."

They walked down the hall towards the back of the house. They entered the conservatory where fall flowers were still in bloom. Darcy led Elizabeth to the very far end of the conservatory where they couldn't be seen from the door.

"Why do you believe," Darcy started, "that you must capture me in compromise to get me to marry you?"

"What?" Elizabeth exclaimed. "I would do no such thing. I would not wish to marry a man who thinks my family connections are reprehensible. To think I enjoyed your company. You are just as arrogant as the rest of the ton!"

"If you were not planning to capture me into marrying you then why did you have me join you in the conservatory?"

"If you remember correctly you asked me to join you, not the other way around. I was just suggesting a place where we might have some privacy."

"And what of your mother? We will not have privacy once she arrives."

"Why would my mother come to the conservatory?"

"To catch me compromising you."

There was a rustle of sound from the door. "Where could that girl have gotten herself," asked the voice of Mrs. Bennet. She finally appeared around a potted plant. "What is going on here? Mr. Darcy alone with my daughter? This is not done. You have compromised my daughter Mr. Darcy. You must marry her."

"No!" exclaimed both Darcy and Elizabeth.

Elizabeth ran out of the conservatory with Mr. Darcy following at a distance. "Well that did not go as planned. When will Lizzy start listening to my instructions?"

Georgiana Darcy stood off to the side of the ball room wondering where her brother and Miss Elizabeth had disappeared to. She had a feeling of where they might be and hoped she was wrong.

She heard a familiar voice in the entry hall where the Bingley's were still greeting guests. She at first could not place the voice until it got louder.

"Where is my nephew? Where is Mr. Darcy?"

Aunt Catherine! She walked into the hall and she had been correct. Lady Catherine was standing there, all eyes on her.

"Aunt Catherine!" exclaimed Georgiana. "What are you doing here?"

Georgiana started forward and then that was when she saw Mr. Wickham. She froze, and turned deathly pale. Lady Catherine did not seem to notice her condition and directed her inquiry to her niece.

"Georgiana, what are you doing here? Where is your brother?"

Georgiana tore her eyes from Wickham and looked at her aunt. "Fitzwilliam is in the ballroom," she lied and hoped that Darcy would appear soon.

Without a word, Lady Catherine entered the ballroom and scanned the crowd.

"I do not see him Georgiana. Where did you last see him?"

"He was dancing. He may have gone for refreshments in the adjoining room."

Lady Catherine cut a path through the ballroom with Georgiana and Wickham in tow. She looked into the adjoining room where guests were partaking of Champaign or lemonade.

"He is not here. We will search every room if necessary."

As Lady Catherine was about to go through the door leading to the hall she was blocked by Miss Bennet and not far behind her Mr. Darcy.

"I will speak to you Darcy," Lady Catherine spoke over Elizabeth. "Tell me, are you engaged to Miss Bennet? For I hope not. She is beneath you. She could bring nothing to a marriage. She has no money. No connections. You owe it to your family to marry well and not some country bumpkin. Do you forget that you are already engaged to my daughter?" There were gasps from the guests who were close enough to over hear Lady Catherine's bellowing voice.

"I have not forgotten, Lady Catherine," Darcy spoke clearly, "that you wish for me to marry your daughter. I have never made any promise or suggested that I would do so. I have never wished to marry Miss de Bourgh. I am also not engaged to Miss Bennet, but I will not tolerate you speaking ill of her. I do not care if Miss Bennet has any money nor connections. She would bring intelligence and liveliness to a marriage, which both are very important to me. More important than any wealth."

"Intelligence and liveliness will not feed nor cloth you."

"You are correct. It is very fortunate that I have my own wealth which is more than sufficient to provide for a family without need of any dowry. If I chose to marry Miss Bennet it is none of your concern."

"Miss Bennet," Elizabeth spoke, "would not marry Mr. Darcy if he were the last man on earth." She pushed past Lady Catherine and headed towards her sister and Mr. Bingley.

"Well now that that is settled," Lady Catherine continued, "you can explain to me why Miss Darcy is at a ball."

Chapter 14

Posted on Sunday, 12 December 2004

Elizabeth Bennet was not happy. What was I thinking? Fitzwilliam loves me. He has not said so but I believe he would have if I had not gone on the defense. He had every right to question me. Although he should have never had doubted my attentions towards him. I would guess that a man with a great wealth would have to be careful. So when he heard what my mother said... He had to ask whether he truly though it of me or not. I should ask him if he truly thinks I would capture him in marriage and if he really thinks a match between us as reprehensible. Why had I not asked him at the Netherfield ball?

She became frustrated with her thoughts. She finally wrote a letter to Mr. Darcy and had decided to deliver it herself to Netherfield. As she came downstairs with her bonnet and gloves in hand she heard a gasp from the sitting room. She entered the room to see Jane holding a letter and looking rather out of sorts.

"What is it Jane?" Elizabeth sat beside her sister.

"This is from Caroline Bingley," Jane held up her letter, "what it contains, has surprised me a good deal. The whole party has left Netherfield by this time, and are on their way to town; and without any intention of coming back again. You should hear what she says. She writes that their having just resolved to follow Mr. Bingley to town directly, and that they mean to dine today in Grosvenor street, where Mr. Hurst has a house. Here you must read this."

Elizabeth took the letter from her sister and read the passage she had pointed out. It read:

When my brother left us yesterday, he imagined that business which took him to London, might be concluded in three or four days, but as we are certain it cannot be so, and at the same time convinced that when Charles gets to town, he will be in no hurry to leave it again, we have determined on following him thither, than he may not be obliged to spend his vacant hours in a comfortless hotel. Many of my acquaintance are already there for the winter; I wish I could hear that you, my dearest friend, had any intention of making one in the crowd, but of that I despair. I sincerely hope your Christmas in Hertfordshire may abound in the gaieties which that season generally brings, and that your beaux will be so numerous as to prevent your feeling the loss of the three, of whom we shall deprive you.

I do not pretend to regret any thing I shall leave in Hertfordshire, except your society, my dearest friend; but we will hope at some period, to enjoy many returns of the delightful intercourse we have known, and in the mean while may lessen the pain of separation by a very frequent and most unreserved correspondence. I depend on you for that.

Mr. Darcy is impatient to get to town, where his sister may return to her studies. She is very near of age and we are all eager to see her well settled in marriage in the years to come. She inspires affection in Louisa and myself, that is heightened into something still more interesting, from the hope we dare to entertain of her being hereafter our sister. I do not know whether I ever mentioned to you my feelings on this subject, but I will not leave the country without confiding them, and I trust you will not esteem them unreasonable. My brother admires her greatly already, he will have frequent opportunity now of seeing her on most intimate footing, her relations all wish the connection as much as his own, and a sister's partiality is not misleading me, I think, when I call Charles most capable of engaging any woman's heart. With all these circumstances to favor an attachment and nothing to prevent it, am I wrong, my dearest Jane, in indulging the hope of an event which will secure the happiness of so many?

Elizabeth was shocked. Fitzwilliam has left for London and is never to return. He does not wish to marry me. It was several moments before Jane interrupted her sister's depressing thoughts.

"It is evident by this that he comes back no more this winter."

Elizabeth scolded herself for being so selfish and not considering her sister's own feelings. "It is only evident that Miss Bingley does not mean he should. Why should he not return?"

"I can think of no reason. It must be his own doing.-He is his own master. It does not signify. Is not Miss Bingley clear enough?-Does it not expressly declare that she neither expects nor wishes me to be her sister; that she is perfectly convinced of her brother's indifference, and that if she suspects the nature of my feelings for him, she means (most kindly!) to put me on my guard? Can there be any other opinion on the subject?"

"Most willingly." Elizabeth was overcome with doubt, "Oh, Jane, I had thought that Mr. Bingley had a deep affection for you. No one who has ever seen you together could doubt his affections, but you may be right; although I would not trust Miss Bingley's friendship. She has her own ambitions for herself and her brother.

"I believe that I may have misread Mr. Bingley's attentions. That he is not to return to Hertfordshire and that his attentions are towards Miss Darcy."

"I believe you would make Mr. Bingley a much better wife than Miss Darcy. I mean no slight to her but she is very timid which would not do well for such a lively man."

"And what of you Lizzy? I thought for sure that Mr. Darcy would ask for your hand at the Netherfield ball. What happened?

"Mama and papa are what happened. It all started with papa asking to speak with him. From what I gathered from papa, later, is that the conversation did not go well and that papa refused permission to ask for my hand. Mr. Darcy had told him that he had thought our match reprehensible. That was when I let my pride guide me. I thought the worse of Mr. Darcy. But now... Now I believe he had every reason to think so. Our match would not be good for him.

"Later Mr. Darcy had somehow heard of what mama had spoken to me about. She had told me that I must let him compromise me so that he would be forced to marry me. She had it all arranged. I was to take him to the conservatory and let him have liberties."

"No! Mama did not..."

"She did. I left her side shortly and then made my gravest mistake. Mr. Darcy had wished to speak to me in private and I unthinkingly suggested the conservatory. Needless to say our conversation was not pleasant. We both jumped to conclusions, but I did so without any evidence and Mr. Darcy had every right to think that I was trying to trap him into marriage. To make matters worse, Lady Catherine arrived and pointed out all the reasons Mr. Darcy must not marry me. Again I let my pride blind me. I wish I had never run away from him. Now he has every reason to think the worse of me!"

"Oh, Lizzy, it can not be so bad. Maybe you are right and Mr. Bingley will return. Then would not Mr. Darcy also return?"

"I am not so sure. He may wish to be as far away from me as he possibly can."

Fitzwilliam Darcy paced his study. He had been doing so for several hours. He could not get Elizabeth Bennet out of his thoughts. Why did she do it? Why did she want to force me into marriage? I was going to ask for her hand that night, but now... now I will never see her again. She hates me. SHE HATES ME!

He had followed Bingley to London, hoping to recover from such a blow as having his dear Elizabeth run away from him. It had been a long drive to the city. It had been rather cold but he had chosen to ride his horse rather than ride in the Hurst carriage. He could stand the cold more than he could stand Miss Bingley's advances.

He still felt cold. He had bathed in hot water and was now dressed in his warmest clothes, but he still felt cold... and empty. Yes. Cold and empty; and it is Miss Elizabeth Bennet's doing. Why was she trying to force me into marriage? Why does she hate me for accusing her of doing so, unless... she really was not trying to trap me. What if she does not share the same mind-set as her mother? Then I made a grave mistake.

Darcy stopped his pacing and raced towards the door. He stopped as he turned the door knob. "What am I going to do? Show up at Longbourn and ask Elizabeth to marry me? She hates me; she probably wants nothing to do with me."

Darcy went to his desk and slumped into his chair, resting his head on his desk. "I will never be married to Elizabeth Bennet."

"I'm sorry Charles," Darcy spoke to his friend, "but I will not be returning to Netherfield. I cannot."

"Why not Darcy?" Charles asked. "You seemed to enjoy your stay there, especially in Miss Elizabeth's company."

Darcy had gone to Charles house to tell him of his intentions of going to Derbyshire for Christmas.

"I am no longer courting Miss Elizabeth. She broke it off. She very well hates me and would not wish to see me. I cannot stand being in the same country as her and not seeing her."

"Darcy, I had not realized you were so well in love with her."

"I had planned to ask for her hand, but now that will never happen. I intend on spending Christmas at Pemberley. Will you not join me and Georgiana for the holidays?"

"I had planned on returning to Netherfield, but both Caroline and Louisa have refused to join me. Now it seems I would be returning alone. I think I would better wait until after the holidays to go to Netherfield and best take you up on your offer."

"We will be very glad to have you."