Beginning , Previous Section , Section IV, Next Section

Chapter 10

Posted on Sunday, 6 March 2005

Glancing at his pocket watch, Darcy saw that he was still in good time to have a bite to eat with Charles before their meeting with Mrs. Ravensworth. The accommodating lady was always glad to hear that Mr. Darcy was in the house and was always eager for an opportunity to feed him. Generally known at both houses, she had unspoken rivalry with Mrs. Hodges, Darcy’s cook, and always waited impatiently for her master to relay Darcy’s compliments on a meal or to hear from those waiting at table that he had asked for a second helping of her raspberry tart. She was often at a disadvantage however, for Master Bingley sometimes brought his friend home to dine without giving her prior notice. But today was different; today she was prepared. And her eagerness to please him would not be confined to her culinary creations alone. She was most willing to be of use to him with whatever information she could supply concerning her dear sister-in-law.

Having both been widowed for some time now, their connection, though never having been especially close while their husbands were alive, was quite intimate. They shared whatever little time off they had together, with Mrs. Ravensworth, the cook, often patiently waiting in the Bromwell kitchen for her sister to come down for their much-anticipated outing.

Darcy’s heartfelt exclamations over her cooking brought joy to her heart and a blush to her cheek. She reveled in his praise. How wonderful it was to hear the compliments from the man himself, rather than to have to wait for Mr. Bingley to remember to relay the message. If truth were told, Cook Ravensworth often daydreamed of Fitzwilliam Darcy stealing her away from her present employer. Not that she didn’t hold Mr. Bingley in the highest regard and the fondest affection, . . . but Miss Bingley sorely strained her patience and often treated her with so little respect, as to make her seriously consider seeking other employment. Happily, the lady had been with her sister since Christmas.

Mrs. Ravensworth was unaccustomed to sitting in her master’s presence, and when invited to take a chair opposite the two gentlemen, became quite flustered and agitated.

“Please do sit, Mrs. Ravensworth,” said Darcy, gesturing towards the well-cushioned armchair, “You have been on your feet since early morning preparing that wonderful meal, and in any case, this conversation is in no way related to your duties here.”

Her rosy cheeks became even rosier as she obligingly took her seat.

“Before we begin, Mr. Ravensworth, I feel it my duty to say that you are under no obligation to answer my questions,” said Darcy, “or to give any manner of help that you feel uncomfortable giving. I would not have you divulge a confidence or risk a rift in your relationship with your sister-in-law. But on the other hand, I wish you to know that anything you tell us will be held in strictest confidence, and that you can be assured that we only impose on you in this way for what we believe is a very just cause.” Here, he paused. “I have, of late, made the acquaintance of Mr. Arthur Strickland, Mrs. Bromwell’s son-in-law, and have, very recently stumbled upon a most unfortunate situation in his home. Please believe that Mr. Bingley and I know that this is a blatant interference in the affairs of people that are virtually strangers to us, and that we would leave well enough alone were we not aware of Mr. Strickland’s heartbreaking situation. He is, no doubt, in a weakened emotional state over the illness of his wife, and although he would never ask for assistance, he is in dire need of it.”

Mrs. Ravensworth did her best to regulate her countenance, but her tightly pursed lips and startled expression gave him much encouragement to continue in this way.

“Poor man, he is too distressed to be mindful of the day to day running of the household, and what must seem like trifling issues to him, under the circumstances. But when I stopped by to speak to him and met his children, I, who could look at things more clearly and objectively, saw that they are in much need of support. I believe they have lost the services of a governess of late and lack the comfort, direction, and physical attention they naturally require.”

Mrs. Ravensworth nodded her agreement or understanding – Darcy knew not which, but he went on.

“I would approach the man directly if I felt that he were in a state of mind capable of accepting such an observation from a mere acquaintance, but the man is not, and cannot be expected to be himself at this time. For the sake of his children, I am willing, therefore, to seek the ear of their grandmother and risk offending her by interfering in the family’s very private business. For I must believe that as a loving grandparent, she would wish to know the true circumstances under which her grandchildren are living and help them where she could.”

Mrs. Ravensworth continued to nod her head and murmur, “Yes, of course.”.

“But not knowing anything about the old lady or her state of health, I wish to learn what I can from your sister-in-law before braving such interference. Is Mrs. Bromwell well enough to receive such a visit from a stranger, and would she, in your sister-in-laws opinion, be open to the idea of an outsider speaking to her on such a private family matter? These are the things that we must speak to her about. Would you be willing to relay this message and ask her for an interview?”

“I shall go and speak to her this evening, Mr. Darcy, and have an answer for you by morning. How kind of you to go to all this trouble for a family that is not your own. My sister is truly devoted to her mistress and her family, and would, I imagine, be most eager to do everything in her power to help them.”

Darcy had deliberately stayed away from Gracechurch Street that afternoon, knowing that Elizabeth would question him about his day. He did not wish to lie to her, nor was he prepared to reveal what he had learned from and about the children. Avoiding the issue entirely seemed the best way to deal with it, and he busied himself at home. They were, after all, going to dine together that evening, and Elizabeth would accept his explanation of being involved in researching Strickland’s finances – not an out and out a lie, just a well-meant, protective fib.

The entire party was expected at seven, and Darcy was glad that he had convinced Mrs. Gardiner to bring the children along as well. That guaranteed that the conversation would remain light for at least part of the evening, and he desperately needed something or someone to draw him out of his melancholy. He was a newly engaged man, after all, and in that regard, could not be happier. But his meeting with the children had affected him deeply – far more than he could have imagined. Now, the anticipation of seeing Elizabeth filled him with both joy and dread. He longed to be with her, to hear her voice, to touch her hand, but was afraid that she would see right through him to the twisted knots in his stomach.

Charles Bingley, on the other hand, was all happy anticipation. He hoped that the evening would afford him some, much wished for, time alone with Jane. With eleven people at dinner, he believed there would be times when everyone would be deeply engrossed in conversation, and he could quietly engage her in a more intimate tête-à-tête. He knew that he could rely on the help of his friends in this department, for they were all willing conspirators for his felicity.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, being yet unacquainted with many in the group, had rather mixed feeling about the evening ahead of him. He was, of course, most anxious to see Miss Elizabeth Bennet again, - even if she was now betrothed to his cousin! How very different things had been when they had last met at Rosings. He thought of how comfortable and easy it had been to engage her in witty and playful conversation, while Darcy sat brooding, very much the outsider. That odd conversation at the pianoforte suddenly made more sense to him and he now realized how much Darcy must have been suffering at the time. His cousin had actually been jealous of him and his attentions towards Miss Bennet! But being Darcy, he had naturally been too proud to hint that he was seriously interested in the lady himself!

His introduction to Miss Jane Bennet was what worried him most. He knew he would feel uneasy coming face to face with the lady he had once so flippantly and easily maligned. He thought with embarrassment of the callous and unfeeling way he had spoken of her – the mocking, arrogant tone he had used. Would his words be on Miss Bennet’s mind when she introduced them this evening? Would the incident still be as painful to her, as it was to him? Thank G-d there would be a crowd of people to distract him!

When the dreaded meeting finally occurred, his immediate reaction to her person was totally unexpected. She was a beautiful young woman, graceful and poised – her sweetness of temper and genuine modesty as clear as the shy smile on her lovely face. So this was Jane Bennet! He was overwhelmed by the effect she had on him. Of course, she belonged to Bingley; that had been made perfectly clear. Yet Bingley had been willing to leave her on the influence of his cousin! Was the man mad? The lady’s quiet elegance and gentle demeanor were qualities rarely combined with such beauty. How could Bingley even think of parting from such an extraordinary creature and leaving her to wonder about his affection? To his mind, the man didn’t deserve her, and . . . as far as he knew, they were not yet engaged . . . . But, no! Of course he would make no move toward her or reveal his admiration. He would do nothing to interfere with the man’s happiness. He had, after all, been brought up to behave like a gentleman. Jane Bennet was taken. But that made her no less desirable.

The evening was a great success! Elizabeth was in an especially emotional state, returning to the house that had been her refuge and would now be her home. Her reunion with many of the servants was particularly touching, with everyone eager to greet and congratulate their new mistress. For their part, the staff felt obliged to treat her more formally, but Elizabeth would have none of it, and at one point in the evening called for Margaret to accompany her and Mrs. Gardiner up to the sewing room, as if she were an old friend. Elizabeth had missed the little sanctuary that had come to mean so much to her, and wished to share it with her aunt. Now, taking a slow turn about the room, she recalled that she had taken only two of the gowns that Georgiana had had made for her to Gracechurch Street. She thought it wise to retrieve the others so that she would have more of a selection to wear. But when she opened the small closet, it was empty.

“Margaret, my gowns are not here. Have they been moved?”

“Oh yes, Miss Bennet. The master had me hang them in your own bedchamber, or what will be your bedchamber, Miss,” she added quickly, reddening.

“Oh, then shall we get them from there?” asked Mrs. Gardiner, eager to see more of the house, especially her niece’s private quarters.

“No aunt, forgive me, but I think we should return to the others and allow Margaret to do that for me.” Elizabeth blushed. She knew how much Fitzwilliam had wanted to show her the house and that room in particular. She could not rob him of that pleasure, and as for herself, she naturally wished to view it for the first time with him.

Once they had finished the main course, the entire party gathered in the music room, except for the children, who accompanied Margaret up to the old nursery to discover the wonderful playthings there.

Coffee, tea, liquors and chocolate were set out, along with the fruits and sweets, and an exquisite apricot mouse, formed in the shape of a wedding cake and appropriately decorated – Mrs. Hodges’ first tribute to her new mistress.

“Oh, dear,” murmured Bingley to Darcy as the later poured his guest a glass of port. “We mustn’t let Mrs. Ravensworth learn of this masterpiece! She’ll be in a foul mood for a week!” he chuckled.

“Yes, but perhaps she will soon have reason to create something even more spectacular for you and Miss Bennet,” was Darcy’s reply. “We both know that a change of mistresses would indeed be welcomed by that lady.” They had been friends for too long and had been through too much together not to be candid about such things.

“If only I had such news to declare,” said Bingley in obvious frustration. “I am afraid to press her, Darcy, but I cannot understand the delay. Is she still unsure of her feelings for me, or has she decided against me and is only waiting until this matter with Strickland is resolved to let me know?”

“You cannot seriously believe that Jane Bennet would give you false hope just to secure your help in avenging her sister? Charles, you know her better than that! Perhaps she is still too focused on her Elizabeth’s recovery to even think of her own happiness. It has only been a couple of days.”

The lady in question could be seen in rapt attention of an animated conversation between her sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam. They were obviously reminiscing about the last time they had been together, and all three were laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Charles smiled as he watched his beloved, then feeling suddenly uneasy, wondered what it was about this scene that was troubling him.

Before everyone departed Bingley invited the whole party to dine at his home the evening after next. It had been a delightful evening, and although nothing eventful had come of it, Bingley had unquestionably been more relaxed here than in the Gardiner’s small parlor. He could not compete with Darcy in impressing Jane’s relations, nor did he feel it necessary to do so, but having them as his guests, in his own home, certainly could not hurt. Happily, Caroline intended to remain with the Hursts for yet another week. He had better make the invitation now.

“Mrs. Ravensworth, you will, I hope, understand if my questions to you differ somewhat from the ones I posed to your sister-in-law. Our main goal there was to get the opportunity to speak to you, and the object of this interview is to learn about your mistress’s health and disposition towards her daughter’s family.”

Mrs. Ravensworth looked confused.

“Forgive me Madam, but the situation requires me to be blunt. Although I have every understanding for Mr. Strickland’s present state of mind, my concern for his children extends to the future – after their mother has passed and the present crisis is over. My questions to you are these: Is Mrs. Bromwell at all aware of the neglect of her grandchildren, and is she capable of being a source of help to them? But most importantly, would she welcome being made aware of such distressing news or would she shy away from it and be justifiably offended?”

“My mistress is the most loving and devoted of grandmother’s, Sir. It is only her ill health and frail condition that prevents her from being at her daughter’s bedside and tending to her, herself. She has not been out of this house for nearly eight months now. However, my loyalty to Mrs. Bromwell, begs me to inquire how you come to be so interested in her family, and why you would make it your mission to help her grandchildren?”

“You are perfectly right to question my motives, Madam. Discretion prevents me from revealing all, but suffice it to say that I recently watched Mr. Strickland lose 700 pounds in an early morning game of cards and then, on visiting the home, met his children, who undoubtedly stole my heart. In the midst of all the chaos, I learned that the girls are, at present, without a governess and are not being encouraged to attend to their studies at all. Indeed, Miss Laura is far too busy tending her mother and younger siblings to have the time or energy for study. What is more, she is in a most depressed state. Mrs. Ravensworth, believe me, I am not in the habit of making other people’s troubles my own. But I felt somehow compelled to help these children, and reaching out to their nearest relation seemed the logical thing to do. If you tell me that seeing your mistress would do more harm than good, I shall leave this instant and not bother you again.”

Mrs. Ravensworth wrung her hands. “I am certain that Mrs. Bromwell would want to know and would wish to do everything that was in her power to do. But she will also be distressed and frustrated by her limited ability to influence her son-in-law. Oh dear,” she murmured. “Perhaps I have said too much already! If only poor Miss Bennet were still with us! She was the children’s last governess, Mr. Darcy, and had a very positive influence on the whole family. Mrs. Bromwell was so very fond of her. If only she . . . .”

At these words, Darcy jumped up from his seat, for these were the very words he was waiting to hear! If Mrs. Bromwell had been fond of Elizabeth, than she would believe and accept all that he had to tell her. Charges coming from a grandmother would have greater weight than all his money and influence could supply.

“Mrs. Ravensworth! It sounds to me like Mrs. Bromwell must be told – and the sooner the better. Please inform her of my desire to speak to her, and if this is not a convenient time, name the hour and I shall return. This is of the utmost importance!”

Mrs. Ravensworth nodded and excusing herself, left them to sit in the small parlor that was now one of the many rooms in the house that were no longer used.

She returned moments later and bade them follow her upstairs. The house was spacious and richly furnished, but suffered from the neglect of an aged and ailing owner, who no longer had the energy or the interest for its upkeep.

Mrs. Bromwell was an imposing figure, even seated and propped up against her pillows in the depths of a fine old winged chair, her shawl wound snuggly around her shoulders and a small lap rug folded over her knees. The lady held herself erect, though Darcy could detect the subtle signs of weakness on the right side of her body - a small stroke, no doubt. Speech, however, had not been taken from her.

“Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, I am told,” began the old lady. “ And you have some news of my grandchildren? Please come closer, gentleman, so that I may have a better look at you.”

“Please allow us to formally introduce ourselves to you, Mrs. Bromwell, and to explain our connection to your family,” said Darcy. “This is my good friend Charles Bingley and I am Fitzwilliam Darcy, Madam.” He looked at Mrs. Ravensworth, who had seated herself by the window on the far side of the room and had picked up her needlework, appearing to be disinterested.

“Mrs. Bromwell,” said Darcy leaning in a bit closer, “Could we possibly hold this interview in private? I fear some of the things that I must relate to you are of a very delicate nature and you may . .”

“There is nothing that you cannot say in front of Mrs. Ravensworth, Sir. She has become my truest friend and confidant over the years, and I believe that you would not be here right now, were it not for her.”

“Indeed, Madam I would not,” replied Darcy. “I shall continue then, but I implore you to keep everything you hear completely to yourself, Mrs. Ravensworth,” he said, turning to her, “for what I have to say has the potential of hurting quite a number of people.”

Mrs. Ravensworth nodded solemnly.

“In truth, Mrs. Bromwell, I have been sent to you by Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who was forced to leave her position with your family, due to the cruel and depraved actions of your son-in-law.”

Darcy heard Mrs. Ravensworth’s gasp, but noted only the watering of Mrs. Bromwell’s eyes as she struggled to maintain her composure.”

“Mr. Strickland forced himself on her, and when she resisted him, he struck her mercilessly and flung her against his desk, breaking two ribs. She escaped him by the sheer power of her determination, but was then forced to flee into the freezing night without a farthing or even her pelisse. Thankfully, Mr. Bingley found her and saw to it that she was given medical care before reuniting with her family here in London.”

“You’ve deceived me, Mr. Darcy,” interrupted Mrs. Bromwell. “You wormed your way into my bedchamber under the pretense of wishing to help my grandchildren and instead, you are here to extract compensation from an old woman for the despicable deeds of her son-in-law! You will be sorely disappointed, Sir. My money and my assets are unfortunately controlled by that loathsome man and on the meager allowance that he gives me for my household expenses, there is very little I can do for Miss Bennet – though I would wish to give her the world, if I could. That poor, innocent girl! How it saddens me to hear it! Is she getting better, Sir? Please tell me of her recovery and her state of mind.”

Darcy pulled the dressing table stool close to Mrs. Bromwell’s bed and seated himself, while Mrs. Ravensworth hurried over to stand by her mistress. Darcy’s tone was soft and warm. “Mrs. Bromwell, I am indeed here on a mission for Miss Bennet, but it has nothing to do with collecting compensation or laying blame. She will never expose your son-in-law or publicly accuse him. Her love for his children is too great to expose them to such humiliation and sorrow. It was I, wishing to defend her honor, who went to see him and became aware of the critical situation the family is in. Mrs. Bromwell, Strickland is gambling away large amounts of money, while denying his family the household help they so desperately need. Your daughter, I believe, is getting only the minimal care that the Nanny and the other housemaid can provide. The younger children are often unattended and your granddaughter Laura is doing her best to care for them. Strickland leaves them to deal with all this while he amuses himself at his club and G-d knows, where else. He must be stopped before he bankrupts the family, and your grandchildren need your intervention and your loving support.”

“Mr. Darcy! I would arrange to have them brought here this instant if I could, but he will not allow it!” cried the old lady. “He resents my influence on Laura and claims that I am turning her against him. My daughter was still able to travel to me at Christmas, and knowing that it would be the last time I would see her, he announced that I would be denied the company of my grandchildren as well, unless I . . . . . Mr. Darcy, tell me what I can do and I will do it!

“Forgive me, Mrs. Bromwell,” interrupted Bingley, “but how is it that your son-in-law controls your finances? It is none of our business, to be sure, but obviously your vulnerable position significantly affects your entire family.”

“Do come and sit by me, young man,” said Mrs. Bromwell, gesturing to Mrs. Ravensworth to supply another chair. “You cannot imagine what a relief it is to have someone else to discuss this with. Not that Mrs. Ravensworth and I do not anguish over it each and every day. But we are both helpless in this regard and can only repeat the same old worries, day in and day out. I have, however, in my many hours of solitude, come up with some clever ideas, . . . but I get ahead of myself. Let me first give you the history. If dear Miss Bennet sent you to assist me, then I have no doubt that you can be trusted.”

Bingley accepted the seat that was placed beside his friend and Mrs. Ravensworth excused herself, murmuring something about tea. Mrs. Bromwell adjusted her position in the chair with difficulty, but once settled, resumed her narrative.

“When my daughter first met Arthur Strickland, my husband and I both thought that she had made a most advantageous match. He was witty, charming, and well educated, and came from a good family. It was true that the family was cash poor and land rich, but that was of no matter, for although bred to lead the life of a gentleman, Strickland was eager to join my husband’s firm and proved himself very clever and capable. We trusted him; my husband especially trusted him, and became more and more dependant on his advice and judgment. He was also a very good husband to my daughter, and although his gaming habits were at times troublesome, that appeared to be his only weakness, and we indulged him. Once Laura was born, however, he seemed to turn into quite a different sort of man. But by then, he was so firmly entrenched in the business, and my husband relied on him so heavily, that we started on this painful and vicious cycle of appeasement and anger. When my dear Henry became ill, Strickland charmed and bullied this way into the control of the business and all our assets, under the guise of being the concerned and dutiful son-in-law who had nothing but the family’s interest at heart.” Here the lady paused to sniffle and delicately wipe her nose.

“No sooner had my husband passed away, then he threw my younger daughter’s husband out of the firm, called in his mortgage, and almost bankrupted the family before they fled to Scotland, where they could live more economically on a small piece of land that I purchased for them. You would not believe how Strickland raged when he found what I had done! Now, for these past ten years, my youngest has been virtually lost to me due to the distance between us, and I have had to watch my poor daughter suffer and sacrifice her dignity just to keep up a pretense of civility before the servants and the children. To own the truth, we have all been miserable for so long that we have quite gotten used to it. We know no other way of life.”

Darcy reached over to press the lady’s hand.

“You will be shocked to hear, gentleman, that I envy my daughter’s dying. How will I bear to go on with that creature in control of the lives of my most precious children? I have done one thing to ruin his plans, however. It came to me while I lay here incapacitated after my stroke, and as soon as I was able to sign my name with my left hand, I had it done. Strickland had rewritten my will, to his advantage, of course, soon after my husband died, and had forced me to sign it. He never thought that I would have the courage to rewrite it once again – or have the money to do it! He kept such a tight rein on my expenses. But unbeknownst to him, I sold my pearls and hired the very best firm in London to redo my will. Two doctors were brought in to pledge for my sanity, and there were two MP’s present to witness everything. What remains of my estate and the firm’s assets will be evenly divided between my grandchildren, and will be put in trust for them until they are of age. And here is the cleverest trick of all! Without my money to pay their expenses, Strickland will be only too happy to give them up to my younger daughter and her husband, when I die. But heaven help me; when will that be?!!! I could languish in this house, somewhere between life and death for ten years or more! What will have become of my precious darlings by then? What kind of miserable life will they be forced to endure without their mother’s protection? I ask you Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, what can be done in the meantime?”

Darcy covered the hand he had been holding and pressed it, comfortingly. His gaze, however, remained on the floor as he pursed his lips and shook his head. Elizabeth would be devastated, but the logical answer was to accuse Strickland of the rape and have him incarcerated – just the thing they had most hoped to avoid. Or, he could see to it that Strickland bankrupted himself at the gaming table and was sent to debtor’s prison. Both solutions would be very painful to Laura . . . .but the choices were limited and time was of the essence. At least, so much of what he had been most anxious about was no longer a concern. Thankfully, Mrs. Bromwell had done what was necessary to protect her grandchildren’s futures and there was a loving family, ready and willing to give them a better life! His immediate concern was Elizabeth’s reaction to all he had been keeping from her these past few days. G-d help him!

Charles Bingley was allowing his man to put the final touches on the knot of his neck cloth when he heard a bustling from the floor below and grew suddenly agitated.

“What? Guests already? It’s early yet, isn’t it,” he said to his bewildered valet as he gestured him away with a wave of his hand and hurried out the door. From the top of the stairs he could hear Caroline’s loud, indignant voice, and instantly, his heart sank. All his happy anticipation for the evening ahead was gone. He pulled back his shoulders and proceeded down the stairs.

“Charles, thank goodness you are home! Where is everyone? You would think I would get some attention from my staff after having been away for almost two weeks!”

The butler had just taken her pelisse and bonnet, but no footman had raced forward to carry her trunks and packages to her rooms.

“Everyone is very busy, Caroline. I’m expecting guests for dinner. You’re just in time to refresh yourself and change. I’ll tell Sofie to set another place.” He tried, unsuccessfully, to give her a genuine smile before kissing her cheek and murmuring, “Welcome home.”

“Why thank you, Charles. I thought you’d be pleased to have me return a few days early. Things had become quite tedious at our sister’s house and Hurst was going on my nerves. But what good luck to be coming home to a little dinner party!” she said, moving toward the dining room. “Who have you invited, Charles? . . . . Oh!” she exclaimed, on seeing the number of setting on the table. “I dare say it is not quite so little a dinner party as I thought!” She turned to him with eyebrows raised.

“Well the Darcys and Colonel Fitzwilliam are coming,” he began, “and . . . .”

”Oh, how wonderful!” she interrupted, racing, as she spoke, out of the dining room and toward the stairs. “Oooooh! We must get these trunks out of the vestibule, Charles. See to it,” she ordered, “and be sure to have me seated next to Darcy, as usual. I must wash and dress!” she cried, paying absolutely no attention to her brother’s vexed expression or the shaking of his head.

“Caroline!” he finally to shout in order to stop her. “You will not be seated next to Darcy this evening. His fiancée will be to his right and her uncle to his left. The seating arrangements have already been decided. I hope you will find it in your heart to be gracious and more than civil to everyone.” His neck cloth was feeling especially tight. His elevated blood pressure throbbed at his temples.

“His fiancée?” repeated Caroline, thunderstruck by the news. “But…but he had chosen no one at the Christmas ball. He had made no announcement! And had there been a rumor of a preference I would have heard about it! What is going on, Charles? Who is this woman? And why on earth would you invite her to my house!” she ended up shouting.

“You forget, dear sister, that this is actually my house and that I may invite anyone I choose. You are already acquainted with the young lady. It is Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and yes, this all came about while you were away.”

“Elizabeth Bennet?!!” she cried. “That little frumpy thing from Hertfordshire? Why he hasn’t seen her in two years! Where on earth did she come from …. and why did you do nothing to stop it, Charles?”

“I did nothing to stop it, because, believe it or not Caroline, I adore Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and feel that she will make Darcy a wonderful wife. Beside the fact that it is not my place to stop it, Darcy is deeply in love with her and would not give her up for anything,” he said most passionately. “And there is one thing more that you should know before you decide whether you wish to join us for dinner or not,” he straightened himself, “her sister, Jane Bennet, is one of the party, as are her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gardiner.”

“The relations from Cheapside?!” gasped Miss Binging, reddening? “I won’t allow such riff-raff in this house, Charles. You have lost your senses!”

“”No, sister, not my senses, but my heart. I have asked Jane to marry me, and although she has not yet accepted me, I pray every hour of the day that she soon will. Resign yourself to it, Caroline. Jane Bennet will be my wife!”

“Resign myself to it? I certainly shall not, Charles. I will not allow you to bring us down in this way! Depend upon it!”

Chapter 11

Posted on Wednesday, 9 March 2005

After twenty minutes or so of pleasant banter over drinks, the party had moved to the dining room where no hint of anyone else’s joining them could be perceived. The table setting that had been so recently added had already been removed. Charles Bingley had said nothing of his sister’s early return, for it would have been an affront to all his guests to know that she had arrived home, but was unwilling to even welcome them before giving her understandable excuses for not remaining with them for the evening. He assumed that by this time Caroline would have made her appearance, had she intended to join them, and heaved a great sigh of relief.

Comfortably seated at the beautifully appointed table, they chatted amiably and waited for the serving staff to complete their round with the soup, when the large French doors suddenly opened and Caroline Bingley floated through them, wearing a well-practiced smile.

“Good evening everyone! Forgive me for keeping you waiting, “ she said, trying to ignore Sofie, who was now rushing about to replace the table setting she had only moments earlier taken away. “I arrived home but an hour ago to the pleasant news that we were entertaining guests tonight. . .. . Oh gentleman, please be seated, I do not want to disturb your meal – but you will, I hope, excuse my lateness.”

“Caroline,” said Bingley, remaining on his feet and giving her a grateful nod, “allow me to introduce . . .”

“There is really no need, Charles,” interrupted his sister, “I believe we all know who we are.”

Startled and speechless, Bingley sat down and fumbled with his napkin. His mind raced! What could he possibly say that would not draw more attention to the rude remark or make things worse than they already were? He cast an apologetic glance at Jane, and then at the Gardiners, before picked up his spoon so that everyone could begin to eat.

Mrs. Gardiner’s face was flushed as her eyes darted from her husband’s countenance to that of her niece’s before saying. “It is very nice to see you again, Miss Bingley. We are glad that you were not too weary to join us after your journey.”

Miss Bingley looked at Madeline Gardiner for no more than an instant, and gracing her with a quick, obviously insincere smile, simply answered, “Quite!” She then turned with great animation to Colonel Fitzwilliam who was seated on her left, and simpered, “Oh, Colonel, how wonderful to see you again! Have you remained in town since your cousin’s Christmas ball? Do tell me what you’ve been up to.”

Throughout the course of the meal, Miss Bingley concentrated her attentions solely on the younger gentleman. At no time did she either acknowledge the presence of, or speak to, any of the ladies at the table other than Georgiana Darcy. It was as if the Gardiners and the Bennets were simply not there. She loudly and conspicuously drew attention to herself by telling anecdotes about her stay with the Hursts, relating her plans for expensive renovations of the townhouse, and embarrassing Georgiana with her excessive compliments. Her own brother, she continually interrupted in a most demeaning manner.

That brother, however, was too much the gentleman to cause the sort of scene that would have been required to silence his sister. Instead, he moved the food around on his plate, desperately trying to steer the conversation to safer ground, and feeling too ashamed to make eye contact with anyone other than Darcy. He allowed the situation to continue until, recognizing how badly the situation damaged his character in the eyes of Mr. Gardiner, he stood up abruptly and said in a loud and forceful tone, “Caroline, it is obvious that you are very tired from your journey. Perhaps it would be best for you to retire early. We will all understand!”

Though inwardly surprised by her brother’s unusually daring performance, she showed no outward sign of distress. Indeed it pleased her to know that she had riled him so. If he needed further proof of her determination, she would be happy to supply it.

“How very thoughtful Charles, but I am not at all tired now. I feel positively invigorated – and the night is still young.”

Darcy’s anger raged within him. It was not his place to stop Caroline, and anything he might attempt could demean Charles in the eyes of his guests. How could he help his friend without making him look weak before the others? He could think of nothing to say or do, but he certainly had no intention of subjecting Elizabeth or her family to any more of this. He folded his napkin and cleared his throat.

“Charles, this has been a wonderful meal, but I fear that I have developed an outrageous headache,” he said, looked pointedly at Miss Bingley. “Please do not be offended at my desire to leave early.” He turned to Elizabeth, and taking her hand, murmured, “Do you wish to stay on with your family, Elizabeth, or would you like me to escort you home?”

Elizabeth opened her mouth to reply when, to everyone’s surprise, Bingley jumped up from his seat, excitedly gesturing for them to remain.

“Please, not yet, I beg you,” he said, making his way towards Darcy. “Let us all retire to the sitting room for desert. Mrs. Ravensworth has been working on something special to honor your engagement, and if you leave before it is served she will be beside herself. Please, I’ll hurry it along – just another ten minutes or so.”

“Well, the last thing we want to do is upset Mrs. Ravensworth!” said Darcy grinning. He offered Elizabeth his arm and led her around the table to accompany her aunt and uncle out of the dining room. He knew better than to leave them vulnerable to the likes of Caroline Bingley.

Charles now dashed towards Jane, for this might be his only opportunity to whisper his apologies to her and assure her that he would never expose her to such treatment again. But as he reached her side, he saw her leaning on Colonel Fitzwilliam’s arm. The Colonel was talking to her in soothing tones, his thumb caressing the hand that rested on his.

Jane looked up into Charles’s eyes for a brief moment, then sadly lowered hers and turned her attention back to what the Colonel was saying. Charles nodded his understanding and followed them, three paces behind. As he sank yet further into despair, he felt the gentle touch of Georgiana’a hand as it slipped into the crook of his arm. “Don’t look so despondent, Charles. Everyone knows Caroline can be difficult. It will all sort itself out,” she whispered.

Mrs. Ravensworth’s creation was the centerpiece of the desert table. It was a small cake made of sponge layers alternately filled with marzipan and raspberry cream that was decorated to look like a bridal bouquet. The entire cake was covered with spun sugar flowers, some smooth and glossy, others sparkling in the candlelight in their crystallized glory. There were gardenias, roses, and jonquils, with lily-of-the-valley trailing down the sides. A single butterfly graced the bouquet.

“Good gracious!” exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner, “I’ve never seen anything quite so beautiful in all my life! We aren’t actually going to eat it, are we?”

“It is too beautiful to destroy,” laughed Elizabeth – the first smile of the evening to grace her lovely face.

“We must have Mrs. Ravensworth here to applaud her work before we devour it,” said Darcy, “for I am sure that it tastes every bit as good as it looks! Charles, would you have her come up for an ovation?”

“Certainly,” he beamed, suddenly breathing a bit freer than he had all evening.

When the talented lady entered, a bashful smile on her face and a fresh white apron covering her frock, everyone rose to applaud her. Everyone that is, except Miss Bingley, who had followed the others out of the dining room, after having observed Colonel Fitzwilliam’s attentions to Miss Bennet. Elizabeth and Darcy came forward to offer their special thanks for her extraordinary efforts – making the good lady cry. And as she wiped her tears on her apron, Darcy said in whisper loud enough for everyone to hear, “And if you ever feel put upon by my friend here, I will always find a place for you on my staff.”

Everyone chuckled, but Bingley came around to rib his friend and warn, “Now, Darcy, hands off, if you please. Mrs. Ravensworth knows where she is truly appreciated!”

“As Mistress of this house,” said Miss Bingley , her voice resounding with deliberate emphasis, “allow me the honor of cutting you a slice, Mr. Darcy!”

Darcy cringed. What could he do? Object? Refuse to take it from her? He gave her an expressionless nod.

Miss Bingley very carefully cut a large slice, placed it on a plate and handed it to him with a fork. She then cut the next, and passing Elizabeth and Jane right by, held it out to Colonel Fitzwilliam. With a grimace, he took it from her and handed it to Mrs.Gardiner, who was standing beside him.

The next piece, Miss Bingley carried over to Jane, and as she approached her she pretended to trip on the rug. Flailing about for balance, she fell against her, deliberately crushing the cake onto her chest! Jane stumbled backward, falling directly into the arms of Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“Good Heaven!” cried Mrs. Gardiner, as she thrust her cake plate at her husband and rushed to the aid of her niece. “Dearest, are you all right?”

“Yes, I’m fine,” murmured Jane, her face now crimson with embarrassment as she became aware, not only of the raspberry cream clinging to her bosom, but of the way in which the Colonel was supporting her. He slowly helped her to stand, and looking rather flushed himself, distanced himself from the gathering crowd.

Elizabeth was immediately at her side with a large linen napkin to brush off the remains of the confection, but Mrs. Ravensworth came after her, shouting, “No, don’t rub it into the cloth my dear! Let’s see how much we can scrape off first. She handed her a butter knife and instructed her in its use.

“What a shame! Your beautiful new gown will be ruined!” cried Elizabeth, but her sister could think of nothing but her desire to escape.

“Stop fussing Lizzy,” she whispered. “I just want to go home. Please, insist on it now!”.

“Of course,” murmured Elizabeth, straightening and turning towards Fitzwilliam. “Mr. Darcy, would you kindly call for the carriage to come round. We must go.”

Darcy nodded and departed immediately, not waiting for a servant to relay the message to his coachman. He returned a moment later with Miss Bennet’s pelisse, and handing Elizabeth his handkerchief, nodded towards the neckline of her sister’s gown. Elizabeth gave it to Jane, who held it against the soiled area and closed her pelisse around it.

“Forgive us leaving so abruptly, Mr. Bingley,” said Elizabeth. “I’m sure you understand.”

Bingley’s butler and two other staff members hurriedly brought everyone’s belongings, as Charles went from one to the other, murmuring his apologies and helping them on with their garments.

“ You have done nothing to apologize for, Charles,” said Darcy, “ though I do understand your feelings. Get some rest, my friend.”

Bingley now approached Mr. Gardiner, saying, “May I ride back Cheapside with you and the family, Sir. I would like the opportunity to . . . “

“No! Please, no! I thank you, Mr. Bingley,” cried Jane, overhearing the request. “But forgive me; I would much prefer to be alone with my family just now.”

“I understand, Miss Bennet,” said Bingley sadly, “but I hope you’ll allow me to stop by tomorrow.”

She nodded, but turned away even before he could take her hand.

Very little was said on the way back to Cheapside. Darcy had accompanied them, of course, and although Jane had become very fond of him and knew that she could trust him implicitly, he was still not yet, “one of them”. She could not open her heart in his presence, especially knowing his devotion to his friend.

“Darcy, would you pass me the marmalade,” said the Colonel, buttering another piece of toast. They were discussing their strategy over breakfast.

“I’ve never felt quite so useful,” quipped Richard. “I always knew my skills at cards would come in handy one day. And I assure you, cousin, that my skills have improved considerably since we used to play regularly together.”

“Well, your card sense has always been better than mine,” said Darcy, sipping his coffee, “and I never had the benefit of learning from the best!”

“Soldiers are only the best at cards because they have so much time to play and so little else on their minds – it’s all in the concentration,” he laughed.

But seriously, Richard, you must let the man win enough games to make him believe he can outsmart you.”

“Of course, Darcy! I don’t even intend to engage him in a game today. I only want to wet his appetite by allowing him to see what I can do. He’ll be itching to play with me tomorrow.”

“And watch how much you lose! Remember that’s my money you are playing with,” said Darcy, looking up suddenly to see Perkins enter with Bingley by his side.

“Charles! You’re here early. I would have thought you’d need to sleep in after your row with Caroline. You must have gotten to bed rather late.”

“I didn’t get to bed at all, but neither did I have a row with Caroline. There was no point to it. There is no way that we can ever live under the same roof again.”

“You threw her out?” asked Richard, incredulously.

“No, that townhouse is Caroline’s creation. It has been her “ work in progress” for many years now. She has decorated it and improved it time and time again, at considerable cost, and I have hated everything she has ever bought or done to it! Besides,” he said looking directly at the Colonel, “after last night, I wouldn’t expect Jane to set foot in that house ever again. I’ve come for your permission to ask Georgiana to help me find a new home, Darcy. I’m meeting with an agent at ten and I hope to actually find something and sign the papers today. I need a woman’s eye, and as I cannot as yet ask Jane to accompany me, I thought I might impose on your sister. Would you know if she has definite plans for today?”

“But Charles, this will double your living expenses!” said Darcy. Think of it – the mortgage, the staff, the furnishings! Caroline will have to accept Jane eventually, and even she will soften when she realizes that she is beholden to you both while she is unmarried.

“But Jane does not have to accept her as a sister-in-law, or me as a husband, if Caroline makes it bitter enough for her. Who would blame her from running the other way after last night’s humiliation? Don’t you understand? That was what last night was all about! Caroline wanted to make it clear that she would never accept her – certainly never allow her to be the true mistress of that house, and that she would delight in making her miserable!”

Bingley was now so red and overheated that he tore at his neck cloth to loosen it. Darcy poured him a glass of water and bade him drink.

“The next time we meet, I must be able to assure her that she alone is my priority, that although I do not make this break with my family lightly, I will make it to ensure our happiness. I would not expect her to accept me under any other circumstances.”

Darcy put a brotherly arm about his friend’s shoulders. “You are right, Charles. Perfectly right!”

Colonel Fitzwilliam solemnly stared into his coffee cup.

Charles and Georgiana has just left, and Richard was about to head out the door when Perkins came up from below stairs and said rather indignantly, “Master Darcy, there is an old woman who claims to be Bingley’s cook, sitting in our kitchen. She came in through the servant’s entrance claiming that you promised her a position here. What am I to do with her?”

“Mrs. Ravensworth? Here? . . . Well, show her up to my study, Perkins, and warn everyone to hush about this. I will not have any vicious gossiping in this house!”

Startled, Perkins bowed and retreated to perform the task. It was a simple one, but most distasteful.

Mrs. Ravensworth’s eyes were red and swollen. She whimpered into a large gentleman’s handkerchief as she stood before Darcy.

“But last night was not the worst of it, Mr. Darcy,” she protested. “After all of you had left, and Mr. Bingley had gone up to his study, I took the remains of the cake, wrapped it carefully, and set it on ice in the hopes that it could be delivered it to you today. Well,” she said, wiping her nose, “when I came into the kitchen to start the breakfast this morning, I found it in the trash bin, smashed to bits and covered with all sorts of dirt. Forgive me for speaking ill of my mistress, Sir, but she is so mean spirited that I cannot work for her any longer! And even if you have no place for me here, I shall find another position. Well, at least I hope I shall. I left without giving notice and cannot expect a reference.” She wept a bit louder to make her point.

Not wishing to offend her, he suppressed his laughter and said, soberly, “You needn’t worry Mrs. Ravensworth, I shall keep my word and take you on for now. But I am sure that something equally appealing will turn up soon. Let me introduce you to Mrs. Hodges. She will get you settled and let you know what she needs done. You do understand, Madam, that it is her kitchen and that I expect you ladies to do your best to get on together?”

“Yes, of course,” murmured Mrs. Ravensworth, suddenly paled at the thought of working for Mrs. Hodges! But she forced a smile and followed Mr. Darcy below stairs.

A hush fell over the kitchen as they entered, and everyone stared as Darcy made the formal introduction. “Mrs. Hodges, your kitchen is being temporarily blessed with a pair of extremely skilled hands, and I know you will use them to the best advantage. Please see to it that everyone on your staff is welcoming to Mrs. Ravensworth. I’m sure the two of you will get along very well.” He gave them each a nod and bolted up the stairs.

Mrs. Hodges stared at her rival, and after a few moments realized how grateful she was that it was Mrs. Ravensworth who was standing in her kitchen, instead than the other way around. And with a sudden rush of empathy, she gave the anxious lady a warm smile. “I was just about to have my second cup of tea, Mrs. Ravensworth. Would you care to join me?”

“Is Mr. Bingley not with you, Fitzwilliam?” asked Elizabeth. “I thought he’d be eager to . . .”

“No, I don’t think he’ll be here until much later. He had some important business to attend to, first.”

“More important than my sister?” asked Elizabeth, looking anxious and surprised.

“No, my love. Now don’t judge him too hastily. I cannot break a confidence, but I assure you that this business has everything to do with your sister and his concern for her happiness. I urge you both to be patient and to trust him.”

“Then I shall,” smiled Elizabeth, going on tiptoe give him a quick kiss before the others entered the room. “But I cannot promise that Jane will; she is very low just now.”

“I can well understand that, Elizabeth, but urge her not to give up on him. You’ll see; he’ll surprise you.”

“Well good morning, Mr. Darcy,” came Madeline Gardiner’s voice as she entered her parlor and reached out her hand to greet him. “I did not expect to see you so early in the day!”

“I had intended to be here by ten, actually, but got delayed by something you may find quite amusing. It is a continuation of last night’s shocking saga.”

“Fitzwilliam! How can you joke about it then?” said Elizabeth, moving to stand beside Jane, who had just come in to join them.

Darcy turned and bowed, then stepped forward to take Jane’s hand. “It is a miracle, Miss Bennet! Simply a miracle,” he said, taking her measure with a playful grin. “You were treated to an all out attack by Caroline Bingley, and not only have you survived, but you’ve even managed to keep your sweet smile.”

“Just barely, Mr. Darcy,” was her reply, but she did broaden that smile just a little.

“And now let me see if I can’t give you all a chuckle.”

They sat down together and Darcy proceeded to tell them, in all seriousness, of Mrs. Ravensworth’s arrival and the story she had shared with him. By the time he came to part about leaving the two ladies to stare at one another before the stunned faces of the staff, they were all laughing so hard that Mrs. Gardiner needed his handkerchief to wipe her eyes.

“That wretched woman! Imagine her destroying that beautiful cake just for spite!” chortled Mrs. Gardiner. “I can just picture the rage she was in when she did it, and I can’t think of anything funnier!” she continued to laugh.

“How I would have loved to have seen her face when she sat down to breakfast and learned that her cook was gone!” said Elizabeth. “You did say that she simply packed her things and left without speaking to anyone?”

“Yes,” grinned Darcy, “Imagine how distressed she must have been, poor woman!”

“I hope you won’t come home to find your kitchen in ruins and all the china smashed,” laughed Mrs. Gardiner. “I am sure Mrs. Hodges is very passionate about her authority in that kitchen.”

“No doubt! But I have faith in their good sense and kind hearts,” said Darcy. Here he paused for a moment, his countenance taking on an intensely serious look.

“I am very happy to have been able to make you smile, ladies, for the main purpose of my visit is really quite serious. I’ve spent the past few days gathering information on Strickland’s particular financial circumstances and I wish to relate to you what I have learned. But first I must tell you of my unannounced visit to his home.” Darcy reached for Elizabeth’s hand and held it. His doing so in front of her sister and her aunt was a clear signal to all that this would be a difficult conversation.

“Fitzwilliam, I must go back and help them! Perhaps I can be there the hours he’s away from home – at least that! We must so something!” cried Elizabeth, her tears flowing steadily down her cheeks as she spoke.

“My sweetest love, you are too upset to think rationally. That would never work out and there is no way that I would allow you to enter that house, in any case. But you are right that the next step is for us get two or three extra people in there to relieve the situation.”

“But Mr. Darcy, how can we in good conscience send any woman to work for Strickland?”

“I would certainly never offer the position to anyone without making it clear that Strickland has a reputation for being a philanderer,” began Darcy, “and I believe that a rather mature woman with an outwardly stern and business like manner, would be less attractive to him. In any case, I shall put one of my trusted footman in the house to keep a close eye on things.”

“Forgive me, Sir,” said Jane, looking rather perplexed, “but you speak of putting people into the house as if you have Strickland permission to do so. I doubt that he would ever allow others to dictate to him, and besides, didn’t you say that he was trying to save money by decreasing his staff?”

“You are quite right, Miss Bennet. This is not something he would willingly do. However, once we have found the right women to serve as governess and nurse, I shall have to seriously confront Strickland and blackmail him into compliance. I hope that by then, Richard will have won away a good portion of the liquid assets of the Bromwell business and that he will be even more desperate. I am certain that he is using the firm’s funds to feed his gaming habits; he has no money of his own, after all. And I will pay the wages, of course, so he will have no reason to refuse such an offer.”

“It will not be easy to find an older woman to serve as governess. Nowadays, they are all quite young, it seems to me,” said Mrs. Gardiner. “I suppose one needs the patience of youth to do the job well.”

“Yes,” said Elizabeth, “I don’t think any of my acquaintances at the park were over thirty-five. Where can we look, Fitzwilliam?”

“There are some agencies that I will be visiting later today. Perhaps you could ask among your friends, Mrs. Gardiner. The more people we speak to, the better our chances of finding someone soon.”

Caroline Bingley had not lazed the morning away in bed, either. She had awakened rather early, and without as much as a cup of coffee, had left the house to sit and wait for the Colonel some distance from the entrance of the Darcy townhouse. She now closed her eyes and rested against the cushions of her comfortable carriage while her coachman kept a sharp eye out for the gentleman.

“There he is, Mistress!” called Peter, easily recognizing the Colonel after having driven him and Miss Darcy home the night before. “He’s hopped into the carriage already, Miss! Shall I follow them?”

“Of course, you fool! Why do you think we’ve been sitting here? Get moving, . . . but don’t let them see you!”

Miss Bingley was rather surprised to see the Colonel enter the club. She had not been aware that he belonged there, . . . or that he was even eligible to belong there! But no matter, it was actually a very convenient location. There was a book shop and a patisserie across the street where she could while away the time until he emerged again. She noted that Darcy’s driver was not settling in to wait, but was progressing at a good clip down the street. Better and better, she thought. Perhaps he plans a walk when he leaves there!

Weary, and terribly irritated at having had to watch and wait for so many hours, Caroline Bingley hissed out her ” Finally!” as the Colonel came down the steps and turned left to walk along Eaton Road. She had her driver hang back for only a block or two, before pulling up along side him, and graciously offering him a ride to his next destination.

“Thank you, Miss Bingley, but I was looking forward to a brisk walk.”

“Then may I walk with you for a while, Colonel. I have a proposition that I think will be of interest to you. You and I have developed a common interest, I believe.”

“We do have some friends in common, Miss Bingley, but other than that, I cannot imagine that you and I would have any similar concerns,” said the Colonel, thinking of her obnoxious behavior the night before.

“Not only friends, Colonel Fitzwilliam, . . . enemies, as well. Do not reject my scheme before hearing it, Sir! I believe I can make you a very happy man!”

“What is your opinion, Georgiana? The dining room here is of a better size, but the location of the one by the park was most advantageous.”

“They both are extremely charming and comfortable residences, Charles, but there will always be advantages and disadvantages to every house you look at. Close your eyes and try to picture yourself doing every day things in these rooms, and then ask where you see yourself most comfortable, most at ease. That is the only thing that I can recommend – except for what I have been urging you to do all morning.”

“How can I ask her to help choose our new home when she hasn’t even indicated that she will accept me?”

“Ask her to come along as a friend, just as you asked it of me. Tell her you want a woman’s sense of what is important and practical. And as you wander about the rooms, you’ll be able to discuss a variety of things that may bring you to a closer understanding.”

“No, I do not want the temptation of a beautiful house to influence her decision in any way. If I invite her to come along, it may be perceived as a sort of bribe. That will not do. Besides, I want to arrive at her door with this as a fait accompli – something already done because it needed to be done. Whether she accepts me or not, my sharing a home with my sister is no longer possible.”

“Then you must choose for the two of you,” said Georgiana. “Happily, there were only two houses that were ready for immediate occupancy. It could have been worse!” she chuckled

“Surely Jane will miss the green of Hertfordshire. The view of the park would be important to her, I think. Let us go back and take another look at that one; shall we?”

When Bingley returned to Darcy’s townhouse he was very surprised to find out that his cook had left him! Or rather, that she had left Caroline, and without knowing it, had now made herself available to him. This at least, was working out very well. They all had another good laugh at Caroline’s expense before Perkins took. Bingley up to the guest bedroom he was to occupy until he had moved his few favorite furnishings into his new home by the park. All his ledgers, important papers and documents were already with him. He had spent the night collecting all the things he dared not leave for Caroline to see or handle. His wardrobe, and other personal items such as the portrait of his mother, his father’s rare books and his own sporting weapons had all been removed by his butler while Caroline had been out and sent to Darcy’s to be stored. He would return by and by to fetch the things he had forgotten, but the truly important things were already with him. He felt like a new man.

After an informal and relaxing meal, the gentleman took their brandy to the music room to hear Georgiana play some of the pieces she had been practicing, when Perkins entered as quietly as he could and whispered a message to his master.

“Mrs. Annesley? MRS. ANNESLEY!!!” Darcy shouted, startling everyone in the room. “Why didn’t I think of her before?”

And without any explanation, he bounded from his chair and out to the foyer where the much admired and valued lady was waiting.

Chapter 12

Posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2005

“Miss Bingley, I’d rather surrender our entire army to Napoleon than conspire with you against your brother! How do you live with yourself, Madam?”

“But you are wrong, Colonel! It is my love for my brother that forces me into schemes that may seem offensive to you. Miss Bennet doesn’t love my brother – her motives are purely mercenary! She latched on to him because he was the most eligible bachelor to ever come to her quaint little village. Charles simply had the means to get her away from her obnoxious family and give her the advantages she so craved! I assure you, Sir, if my brother had any worthy opponent at all, he would lose her in an instant.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam shook his head in disbelief and chuckled to himself. Did Miss Bingley really believe that painting Miss Bennet in that light would make her more appealing to him? Turning on his heels, he quickened his pace to bring as much distance as possible between them, but the lady was nothing if not persistent! Though struggling to keep up with him, she would not let him escape.

“You need do nothing in particular to win her affections if that seems so dishonorable to you. Just continue to follow your present stratagem, Sir. Observe her closely and be there to catch her when she falls,” she smirked. “But I assure you that a little encouragement would go a long way to winning her heart. As soon as she realizes that she has another admirer she will forsake my brother entirely. She is already losing interest. You must have observed how cold she became towards the end of the evening. Her love , if you can call it that, has no resiliency! She ran at the first sign of trouble! What sort of love it that? I ask you, Sir?”

“And you were only too happy to supply that trouble!” was his reply. “Madam, your humiliating treatment of Miss Bennet went beyond reason, and yet she was able to keep her composure and dignity. Her “coldness” could only be construed as self-preservation. My cousin assures me that Miss Bennet has strong and genuine feelings for your brother, Miss Bingley, and he has had his information directly from her sister. If I had to choose which one of you to believe, I don’t think it would be a difficult decision.”

“Then forgive me for misunderstanding you, Colonel; I thought you had feelings for the lady and would appreciate an ally. If you wish to continue admiring her from afar, that is your prerogative, of course. But time will prove me right! My brother may be foolishly besotted, but clearly, her feelings do not equal his! Have you never wondered why no engagement has been announced? I believed a gentleman of your determination would want to take advantage of that fact! Good day, Colonel Fitzwilliam,” said Miss Bingley, and suppressing her urge to smile, turned and strode, slowly and elegantly toward her carriage.

Oh, how I do love what the power of suggestion can do! Build one up a little, pull one down a little, and sit back to watch the entertainment!

Georgiana struck her last chord and smiled as Mr. Bingley applauded enthusiastically. “Thank you, Charles, but I hope you’ll understand if I cut my little recital short. I am very anxious to see Mrs. Annesley: it has been some time since we have been together. You needn’t feel excluded though – please join us.”

“No, no, Georgiana, I was only waiting till eight to leave for Gracechurch Street. Miss Bennet must be wondering why I have not yet called on her today. An after supper visit is a bit unusual, but I will not have her retiring with the thought that I did no wish to see her. Will you tell your brother that I have gone? I’ll see you both all in the morning.”

Georgiana came forward to squeeze his hand. “I wish you the best of luck, Charles,” she said, he eyes glowing with warmth and affection.

With the supper over and the dishes having been cleared, Mr. Gardiner invited his niece to join him in his study. He had not, of course, been privy to the tearful gathering in Jane’s bedroom last evening, and had left for work early this morning without the opportunity of speak with her. There were things that he felt he could say to console her.

“May I tempt you with a small glass of this lovely sherry, my dear? It will warm and relax you.”

Despite her refusal, he poured just a little and urged her to taste it.

“I understand that Mr. Bingley has not called on you today,” he began. “I must say I find that most surprising! I know how much he cares for you my dear. Perhaps all that aggravation with his sister has made him ill?”

“Do you really think so?” cried Jane, relieved to be hearing some reasonable explanation for his absence. “I have been wondering about it all day. I feared my tone may have been too harsh when I refused to let him accompany us home,” she said sadly. “Oh uncle Gardiner! What am I to think about all this? What am I to do?”

“What has your heart been telling you – before last night’s frightful business?” he asked, smiling warmly and taking her hand.

“My heart has always urged me towards him, Uncle. From our very first meeting I felt a connection so strong, so intimate, that I could no longer picture myself with any other man. But as you yourself said when he first came to see you, two years is a long time to be carrying about such feelings without the resolve to act upon them. I know there were reasons, insecurities and such, but still. . . .” Jane stared at their clasped hands. “I can’t believe that I am telling you all this, Uncle Gardiner - I don’t think I would speak so to Papa.”

She looked up to smile at him appreciatively and then continued. “So when we met again and I found myself as happy with his attentions as I had been before, I thought it prudent to take some time to get know the man he had now become. We are both changed, I believe, and being away from Hertfordshire allows us to meet and speak more freely. The serious circumstances under which we met also helped me to see him in a different light. I admire him for the decisions he made concerning Lizzy, and I have seen how invaluable he is to Mr. Darcy in this awful business with Strickland. And as always, he is a wonderfully devoted friend. I also find him stronger and steadier in his opinions than he was two years ago. But then last night! . . . .last night turned everything upside down! For if that was a taste of what I will have to endure at the hands of his sister, I don’t know that I shall be able to bear it! And Caroline is not alone in her disdain of me. There is Mrs. Hurst and that awful husband of hers! If only Charles’s words had had some effect on her! If only he had been able to stop her! I know he tried, but . . . .”

“You know, my dearest, I think I may have felt more empathy for Mr. Bingley than anyone else at the table. For I know what it is to be a younger brother and have your sister humiliate you in front of your friends. Not that your dear mother would ever be so cruel – not intentionally, anyway. But she did often say the most painful things to me in the company of others, and as you well know, there was no stopping her! You will forgive me for speaking so candidly, Jane, but you are no longer a child, and although you love and respect your mother, I am certain that you are not blind to her short-comings.”

Jane’s eyes widened a little in surprise. Indeed it was true! Papa had long given up trying to control her mother’s outbursts. And in the privacy of her own heart she had always considered that a failing – just as she had been disappointed in Charles’s inability to deal with his sister. Yet here was her uncle Gardiner admitting that he was equally helpless where his own sister was concerned!

“And do not think that I did not try to reason with her over the years, taking it upon myself to teach her some thoughtful, good manners and restraint,” continued her uncle. “But when Fannie was determined to have her say, there was nothing to be done short putting my hand over her mouth and carrying her out of the room!” This image brought a little grin to Jane’s somber face.

“In the end, I came to realize that I could not control what my sister said or did; I could only control my own behavior and the situations that would make me more vulnerable. My dearest niece,” said Mr. Gardiner, looking at her most tenderly, “Though some may not see it as I do, I believe your Mr. Bingley behaved exceptionally well last night. The only tactics he could have used would have brought shame upon himself and his family. He did not lower himself to her level or expose himself to further ridicule by having a noisy row in front of his guests. Nor, did he run out of the room in frustration and shame. To my mind, he displayed great courage and restraint, showing his sister far more respect than she deserved. He was truly a gentleman.”

By this time, Jane’s tears were flowing down her cheeks in grateful acknowledgment of her uncle encouraging words. His perspective would give her much to think about, but for now it lifted a great weight from her heart and gave her reason to hope.

“But do you think that I will ever see his sisters’ acceptance of me, Uncle?”

“Perhaps not, my dear. It is impossible to say. However, if Miss Bingley can be persuaded to move in with the Hursts and leave the two of you to yourselves, it would not be so terrible to be together for the holidays or a short visit now and then. In this regard, Mr. Bingley’s strength and determination will be of utmost importance. As you know, your aunt and I do not come to Longbourn for extended visits, although I do enjoy the company of your father and you girls. But I can only tolerate my own dear sister for short periods of time.”

Jane shook her head unhappily. “Unfortunately, I don’t believe the Hursts have the means of supporting Caroline. In fact, all three of them spend a good part of the year with Mr. Bingley – for obvious reasons. How would I ever deal with all three of them together?!!”

“Jane, the point of this discussion is not for me to influence you to accept Mr. Bingley. You must decide that for yourself. But do not allow his sister’s venom to strip him of all his excellent qualities in your eyes. Do nothing in haste or frustration. Give yourself time to . . . .

“Jane dearest,” came her aunt’s voice after a soft knock on the study door, “Mr. Bingley is here to see you. He is waiting in the parlor.”

“Oh!” was all that Jane could manage as she rose and nervously smoothed the bodice of her gown. “Do I look all right, Aunt? Is my hair in disarray?”

“You look perfectly lovely my dear,” said her aunt reassuringly.

She looked back towards her uncle and gave him a warm smile. “Thank you, Uncle, thank you!” she murmured.

“Do allow me to accompany you and properly receive the gentleman,” said Mr. Gardiner. “Mr. Bingley should know that he is still welcome in this house. Then your aunt and I shall leave the two of you to talk.”

“I believe the risk to your safety is almost non-existent, Mrs. Annesley. After all, Strickland will know that I intend to look in on you every day and that there will be a male servant loyal to me in the house. He could not have any possible motive to confront you. My guess is that he will never even look in your direction. And, of course, you will be ever vigilant not to be alone with him.”

“Of course, Mr. Darcy. And your idea of my having that whistle on me at all times is an excellent one.”

“You do understand that we are hoping to have this entire affair settled in a matter of weeks? The ultimate goal is make Strickland desperate enough to give up the children to his sister-in-law and allow his wife to be moved to her mother’s home. The entire family shall reside there as long as Mrs. Strickland lives, and we hope that you will remain as governess until such time as the children return to Scotland with their aunt.”

“What a sad and desperate business this is, Mr. Darcy! When do you foresee my being able to start there? I would imagine that every passing day endangers the children and causes great suffering to Mrs. Strickland.”

“I had, at first, thought it necessary to wait until Colonel Fitzwilliam had done with him. For once Strickland realizes that the Colonel and I are related the game will be up. But the risk to the family is too great. My cousin has therefore joined the club under an assumed name, and my uncle’s friends have been brought into the conspiracy as well. They will not give him away. Of course they know nothing of the more personal matter. They only know that Mrs. Bromwell is trying to get back control of her husband’s business and that Strickland’s gambling is a danger to his family. The plan is not fool proof, but we must have faith that it will work.”

“And are you still looking for a nurse for Mrs. Strickland?”

“Yes, we are. But I have spoken to the Strickland’s cook – a very fine lady and utterly devoted to the family. She may have a relation that is interested in the position. I am very hopeful that she will be contacting me tomorrow. If she does, Mr. Bingley and I will confront Strickland as soon as may be and we will be able to place you in the house a few hours later.”

“Well, then in the meantime, I shall spend every minute enjoying the company of my most precious girl,” said Mrs. Annesley, pressing Georgiana’s hand. “I have missed you so, my dear!”

“There is one more thing that I would wish you to know, Mrs. Annesley,” said Darcy, his color now slightly heightened. “The unfortunate young lady who Strickland attacked was someone that Georgiana and I both know and admire. In fact, I am very happy to tell you that she will soon be my bride and Georgiana’s new sister. Of course, no one else is to know this, but I wanted you to understand my intimate connection in this case. Miss Bennet will wish to be of help to you in understanding and gaining the trust the eldest Strickland girl, Laura. I will see to it that the two of you have the opportunity to meet.”

“Good evening Mr. Gardiner,” said Bingley with as much self-assurance as he could muster. “Thank you for allowing me to visit so late. Today was an unusual day, and this was my first opportunity to call.”

“I can well understand it,” replied Mr. Gardiner. “Life sometimes makes odd demands on us.”

“I would also like to apologize again for all you had to endure last night. Believe me when I say that I had a very different evening planned. You have my word, however, that your family will never be exposed to anything of the kind again. To say that I was mortified for myself and for my family is a gross understatement. I hope that you can forgive me for allowing it to happen this time.”

“I accept your apology for myself and Mrs. Gardiner. My niece will naturally speak for herself, Mr. Bingley. Now, if you will excuse me, I promised to read to my children before they went to sleep. My dear,” he said, turning to his wife, “perhaps you can make us some tea?”

“Of course,” was the lady’s only reply as she walked out with her husband, leaving the door to the parlor ajar.

They eyed each other in silence for a moment or two until Bingley, gathering his courage, bade her sit. He stood awkwardly before her not knowing how to begin.

“What can I possibly say to you, Miss Bennet? That you should be willing to see me is a miracle in itself and proof of your sweet and generous nature. That you should be treated in such a manner in my home, without my being able to put a stop to it, truly broke my heart!. It shall not happen again. The vow I made to your aunt and uncle, I now make to you. I shall not allow my sister to hurt and humiliate you ever again. Certainly not in my presence, and hopefully, not at any other time or place.”

“Please Mr. Bingley, do not make promises that may be impossible to keep! I know you are determined to prevent her, but your sister is a formidable woman. And she has made it very clear that she will never welcome me into the family or into her house.”

“That is true, Miss Bennet. And that is why I removed myself from that house this morning and, with Georgiana’s help, have already purchased another – a lovely seven-bedroom townhouse by the park. And Caroline shall not set foot in it until the time comes – if it ever does – that she has had a genuine change of heart. In any case, this I can promise you with all certainty. I shall never share a roof with her again! Not that I would shirk my responsibilities to her as a brother,” he added quickly, “but I will not share my home with her, whether married or single.”

“You bought a new home? Today? So quickly? A new home?” she repeated, truly dumbfounded. “I scarce believe it!”

“It had to be done! It is pointless to argue with a sister who cares far more for her place in society than she does for her brother’s happiness! Obviously she cares for that not at all; my feelings are of no consequence to her. I am only surprised that she was willing to behave that way in front of Darcy and Georgiana. But then I suppose her jealousy of your sister blinded her to the consequences of creating such a scene.”

Jane rose to pace the room. “I had not thought of that at all – that half her anger must have been directed toward Lizzy. But of course she would not dare smear cake all over her in front of Mr. Darcy.”

Charles Bingley looked sadly down at his shoes. “And what follows, though I know you are too kind to say it, is that she has no such fear of me. She shows me no such respect because I deserve none.”

“Oh no! That is not at all what I meant to imply,” said Jane, her recent conversation with her uncle so fresh in her mind. ”You deserve her affection and respect for the considerate, loving brother you have always been. I know that your sister’s treatment of you has more to do with the kind of person she is, than the kind of person you are.”

“Jane Bennet! You are an extraordinary woman!” said Bingley, deeply touched by her words. And taking both her hands in his, he kissed them. “I would not have expected anyone to be so generous! But, although I would like to agree with your assessment of things, I cannot. Caroline and I are no longer children. While we lived in our parents’ home, the differences in our ages and temperaments made it understandable that I should give her such deference. But we have been adults for a long time now, and I have not made the effort necessary to change the nature of our relationship. I have let things go so far that now the only remedy is this drastic separation.”

“Oh, but I would not want to be the cause that separation, Mr. Bingley! It is not right that you should be estranged from your family.”

“My dearest, sweetest Jane! My need for independence from my sister has been long in coming. But I will not deny that you were primary in my thoughts when I finally made that decision. How can I expect you to consider my proposal when such hostility is aimed at you by a sister who would share our home? I could not allow such an obstacle to stand between us. I do not tell you this to press you for an answer, but I will not have you imagining your life with me made miserable by Caroline! She is obviously doing this to frighten you away, so my position on the subject must be made clear. You alone are my priority. Your happiness and comfort will come above all things and all people. And if you will would but entrust me with your happiness, there is nothing I would not do to ensure it!”

“Oh Charles!” cried Jane, tears streaming from her eyes. For a moment he thought she was moving towards him, but instead, she pulled away and went to stand by the mantle. ”For days I have fought against my own instincts – forced myself to wait, to think, to cautiously consider, to judge with my head and not my heart!. For you must know how deeply you hurt and disappointed me when you left Hertfordshire!” she said, turning to face him. “And for more than a year and a half I continued to hope against hope that you would somehow return. Now you stand before me making these promises, offering these assurances that you will not break my heart again. Dare I believe you?”

“How I wish you would!” said Bingley, his own eyes brimming. “My heart is yours and yours alone, Jane Bennet. I will never love another,” he whispered.

She watched as feelings of hope and despair alternately crossed his countenance, and her heart ached with the power she had over him. She could not bear to see him thus!

“Then I suppose it is my duty to love you, Charles Bingley,” she said with a shy smile, “or all the world will blame me for your misery.” She stood there by the mantle, her smile widening as the meaning of her words began to register in his mind. He was momentarily struck speechless. And then . ..

“Was that a yes? Will you really have me? Will you be my wife? Oh Jane!” he cried as he rushed towards her, sweeping her up in his arms and twirling her about.

Momentarily taken by surprise, she threw her head back to laugh! “Put me down Charles, please. My uncle will hear us!”

“As you command, my lady – my darling, precious lady.” And with that he lowered her to her feet and bent to gently kiss her lips. He lingered over them, offering one kiss after another, one more ardent than the next, his arms enveloping her in a desperate embrace.

Flushed and out of breath, she finally drew away from him, though it was obvious that she was passionately affected and bubbling with happiness. “You must let me gain my composure, Charles, or my aunt and uncle have no reason but to wonder about the liberties we have taken.”

“Yes of course, forgive me,” replied Bingley, striding over to the tray on the sideboard that held a pitcher of water. “I’m afraid I lost me head! You’ve made so happy – so very happy!” He brought one glass for her to drink, while in the other, he dipped the tip of his handkerchief, so that she might cool and refresh her face.

“My darling Jane! You shall not regret this decision! I shall be the best husband in the world to you! I’ll treasure you always and strive to make each day happy and meaningful for us. You have given me the most precious gift with your acceptance. I love you, my dearest, I love you!” And taking the glass from her hand, pressed forward to kiss her again.

“Miss Bingley!” said Perkins in genuine astonishment. “Forgive me Madam, but both Mr. Darcy and Miss Darcy have retired for the night.”

“You need not disturb them; I’ve simply come for what is mine. Now get my brother and my cook down here this instant. Drag them out of bed if you have to, but get them down here now,” hissed the seriously distraught lady.

“I’m sorry Madam, but Mr. Bingley is not in the house – nor is Mrs. Ravensworth. I believe she has gone to visit her sister.”

“Do I look like a fool to you, Perkins? Bring them to me at once or I shall find them myself. I know my way around this house well enough!”

“That won’t be necessary Madam, for I believe your brother’s carriage has just pulled up. And as for Mrs. Ravensworth, I shall inquire about her return, but I cannot allow you below stairs. Even servants have some rights of privacy.”

Miss Bingley was shocked by the man’s insolence, but chose to focus her attention on the gentleman now coming up the steps. There was an uncharacteristic spring in his step. He beamed at her.

“Hello, Caroline. What are you doing here so late? Really my dear, it is not good form to visit at such an hour.”

“What is the meaning of this, Charles? Where is Mrs. Ravensworth and why are you pretending to run away from home? Have you no shame, acting like a spoiled child in front of our friends?”

Bingley smiled. There was so much he could say, but he was too happy to be drawn into an argument with Caroline. Taking her by the elbow, he forcibly led her down the stairs and back to her carriage, saying, “I shall explain it to you on the way home. There is no point in waking the entire household or involving the Darcys in our family problems.”

Miss Bingley stopped before the open door and yanked her arm free. “I’m not leaving here without my cook,” she said angrily, and was about to go back when her brother grabbed her shoulders and maneuvered her into the carriage. Pushing her down firmly into the seat, he said with quiet conviction, “She is no longer your cook, Caroline. She has left your service. You’ll simply have t replace her.”

“How dare you man-handle me in this way. Get your hands off me, Charles!”

“With pleasure my dear! But if you wish to gain some understanding as to what has happened, I suggest you stay seated. We will not air our dirty laundry in the street or at Darcy’s residence. We will do it in the privacy of this carriage or not at all.”

“Very well! We shall discuss it at home. I have a great deal to say to you!”

“And I have very little to say to you, Caroline, but I suggest you listen very carefully. I have permanently removed myself from our residence and have purchased another home. I shall allow you to continue to reside there and will give you what, I deem, to be a fair allowance for its upkeep – as well as some funds for your personal needs. But since supporting a second residence will be quite costly, it will be necessary for you to economize. You will, of course, need to hire a companion whose salary will come out of said funds. But then you do have your own money to fall back on should you want for anything.”

Even in the dark shadows of the carriage he could see her stunned face. He went on speaking with calm determination.

“Now this is the part that you must pay the closest attention to, Caroline. If you do or say anything to humiliate or hurt Jane Bennet or her sister, I shall cut you off completely. This is not an idle threat, and I beg you not to test me – for I shall be forced to honor my vow and see it through, no matter how it hurts me to do so! Any hint of your spreading rumors or saying anything that would malign her character or reputation will be considered treasonous to me, and you shall be forced to your sister’s house. If you value your independence, Caroline, heed my words.”

To this, Caroline Bingley had nothing to say.

The carriage came to a sudden halt and Bingley jumped out and held out his hand. “Now, go inside and decide how you wish to live your life. Last night’s performance stripped me of any tender feelings I once had for you, Caroline. It is only for the sake of our dear parents that I make this generous offer.”

Although unnerved and powerfully affected, Miss Bingley could not bear to let her brother have the last word. “Your precious little Miss Bennet will not need your protection for very long. Once she recognizes the Colonel’s attentions you’ll come crawling back home to me for companionship and consolation.”

“The Colonel?” said Bingley, a knot forming in his stomach. But the remembrance of Jane’s kiss and commitment warmed him and gave him the strength to simply reply. “My heart goes out to the Colonel, truly it does. I know how easily and completely Jane can steal a man’s heart away, and I have noticed his interest in her of late. But you see, Caroline, Miss Bennet has already accepted me, and she is not the sort of woman to play with a man’s affections. I fear the Colonel will have to look elsewhere.”

Continued in Next Section