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Chapter 17b

Posted on Wednesday, 2 March 2005

For the first time in many years, since his father’s death actually, Darcy had the servants made aware of his desire to decorate Pemberley’s halls and parlors for the Season. Holly and garland of ivy and hawthorn and rosemary were gathered to be displayed. The gardeners scoured the forest for the perfect tree. The maids were enlisted to help with the hanging of the pine laurels, and the men were busy with the holly wreaths.

Darcy even had the cook use his culinary skills to create menus for the theme which included roast beef and venison along with goose and pheasant, potatoes, squash and brussel sprouts that Andre made scrumptious in one of his special sauce creations. The table was arrayed with lovely delights and smells of mince pies and puddings, gingerbread, march pane, sugar plums and ginger nuts.

Elizabeth and Georgiana were happy to add to the spirit with stringing berries while Mrs. Reynolds instructed the men servants with the placement of the candles on the limbs of the tree in the main parlor. Having a tree inside was a tradition that the D’Arcys’s German relatives had brought over from the Continent generations ago. While Georgiana helped make certain none of the servants were left out of the gift giving on Boxing day the mistress of Pemberley had arranged for the tenant children to have a gift and bag of sweets from the master. They even had a hand in the decoration of the Yule Log, a gaily beribboned affair which brought them all to giggles.

All this merriment added to the household who had long wished for a renewal of the happiness of long ago when the present Darcys were children and the old master and mistress were alive. Gaiety seemed to abound within the great hall as all the servants felt lighthearted when a bough of mistletoe was suspended above the parlor door whereby anyone fortunate to go under it was subject to a kiss. Young Georgiana was always chiding her brother that he owed his wife many kisses due to their frequent entry into the room which brought both to blush and acquiesce chastely.

This rekindling of the celebration of the Lord’s birth also brought a new hopefulness felt by all on the estate. Enthusiasm was a constant during this time with the master even planning several dinners with some of the neighbors near enough to call. Darcy refused to put Elizabeth at risk now that the winter was upon Derbyshire and the roads to town impassable that no family members were able to travel to Pemberley. There were about the vicinity a few cherished neighbors who had over the years given their support to both of the Darcy siblings, including Sir Perry Cynric Winthrop and his granddaughter, Lylith, the elderly Mr. Thaddeus Jonathan Jacobs & Mrs. Luella Alodie Jacobs, and the Lord and Lady Rycroft Thompson, both couples being old friends of Darcy’s father. Lord Thompson’s grand-nephew, Thaddeus Percival Knox who was visiting them from Renfrewshire had been a welcome addition to the party. Though somewhat reserved, the young man soon grew comfortable in the easy company, responding to Elizabeth’s gently coaxing that he amuse them with stories of his time at Oxford where his field of study had been the law. It was not until they all removed to the music room that they became aware of his additional musical interests.

Lylith Dooriya Winthrop was the only family member to survive of Sir Winthrop’s five sons, and happily took it upon herself to care for him on their small estate to the south of Pemberley. . Lylith was about Elizabeth’s age and had a similar build but with auburn hair, its reds highlighted by the generous supply of candles in the room. Lylith’s eyes too were a dark blue, the color of slate. Her grandfather likened them to that of the English sea. It pleased both Sir Winthrop and Darcy to see that the two women get on well with Lylith even asking to visit after the baby was born, something Darcy found reassuring that Elizabeth would have another woman to confide in and a nurturing friendship nearby on which to rely as he had with Lylith’s grandfather had for many years.

Watching carefully that Elizabeth not tire herself, Darcy presided over this, the last of the planned parties during the season. The Jacobs were quite adept at playing charades especially with Elizabeth on their side and they were successful at figuring out all the sayings or titles. Mulled wine and spiced fruits were delicious refreshments along with coffee and gelled syllabub sustained those involved in charades for the duration. Darcy was grateful that Lord Thompson did not instigate their participating in the game of snapdragon* which he had been known to suggest in the past when he had a bit too much wine. That was usually when Lady Thompson would announce a headache to have them depart to save face for her husband of thirty years.

Georgiana overcame much of her shyness to play several wonderful concertos for this warm group of friends who received her efforts with enthusiasm. Then Mr. Knox astonished them when he asked if he too could exhibit his talent and chose several Mozart concertos to entertain the group. Afterwards his uncle, Lord Thompson who was a lively sort of man with his shock of white hair that never seemed to stay in place, announced his wish for a song and so enlisted them all to join him in a few of the traditional folk songs caroled by minstrels such as ‘Good King Wenceslas’, and ‘Deck the Halls’, and ‘God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen’. Weeks before Georgiana had boldly begun a conversation with their cook, Jean Claude about some French traditional songs he remembered from his childhood, and who happily translated two of his favorites for her that she deftly wrote down in musical score to add to her repertoire. Tonight Georgiana proceeded to introduce them to the group. ‘Il Est ne, Le Divin Enfant’, which was about the Divine Infant being born, and ‘Un flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle*’ which was a song about two girls bringing their torch to see the baby in the manger. Elizabeth’s delicate soprano lifted high above the men’s rich lower tones and Lylith, Mrs. Jacobs and Lady Thompson held the mid-range to fill the hall with such angelic sounds announcing the birth of the King.

At these parties Darcy’s eyes did not long stray from Elizabeth admiring her form resplendent in gowns of festive colors, some forest greens, others dark wine. Though she could wear any color well, Darcy most enjoyed when Elizabeth donned gowns in hues of the red spectrum; pinks, mauves, rose, or cherry. There was something about the color which reflected the glow off her skin that always gave him pause at her beauty. This night she wore a gown of rich velvet, the color of burgundy. It was set off by the tiny garnet cross, a long cherished present from her father.

Tonight’s party broke up earlier than expected due to the worsening weather and Darcy’s wish that his neighbors safely arrive to their homes. After Darcy, Elizabeth and Georgiana bid them all a Happy Christmas, he escorted his sister to her chambers before retiring with Elizabeth to hers. She lay down on her bed intending to arise in a few moments and ring for the maid to help her dress for bed. When Darcy shrugged out of his coat and received no answer to his question of her plans on the morning he turned around to see she had already fallen asleep. Smiling, he gathered her up in his arms, still arrayed in her burgundy gown, and sat against the headboard gazing at her beauty.

Elizabeth’s tiny cross at her throat now stood out against her alabaster skin, appearing as a drop of blood, the true symbol of what the Season was about, why the Lord had come to be born on earth. HIS sacrifice brought home to Darcy what the mother of the Christ child had risked bringing HIM into the world. When asked, this young Jewess knew only the Awesomeness of HE who had made the request, and replied without hesitation, “let it be done unto me according to YOUR will.” Her betrothed knew the law that could mean her death, but he was entrusted to protect her, to safeguard her on this path she had chosen.

Darcy thought of the risk that Elizabeth was taking to give him his child. He remembered his own mother’s early death, and worried if this would be the only Christmas he would have with Elizabeth. His eyes misted at the thought, as his arms tightened around her, like Joseph he wanted to keep his wife safe. Thinking again of the Christ child Darcy realized it mattered not the time they had been given. All that mattered was the love, the love of a God to send His Son, the love of a young girl to give Him life through birth, the love of her young husband to protect them while He grew, the love of the Son to die and rise that we might live.

All that matters is the Love.

Darcy’s gaze fell upon his young wife asleep in his arms. His love for Elizabeth was so overwhelming that he knew he would do everything to make this Christmas special for her…and would do anything to make her happy. Leaning against the wooden headboard, he closed his eyes and smiled as his heart filled with hope that all would be well.

*snapdragon was a game whereby a bowl of raisins were soaked in brandy and lit on fire, and participants tried to grab one without being burned, sometimes without using hands. Ouch!
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/non/fr/flambeau.htm words to both French Christmas carols. *http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/NonEnglish/il_est_ne.htm

After the feast of Epiphany Pemberley reverted back to a winter routine with the master busy with plans for the spring plantings and other business ventures through correspondence now that the roads allowed some of the mail to get through. Letters from Longbourn and Netherfield made their way to the estate to keep Elizabeth informed of the goings on or lack there of in Meryton and Hertfordshire. Charlotte’s missives had now gotten to her with news of Kent and a small paragraph regarding those abiding at Rosings. It seems that Lady Catherine had been unduly quiet of late and Mr. Collins attributed it to the dreary winter they were having in the area to bring the great lady’s spirits down. Charlotte had a differing opinion, of course, and probably the more correct one that Lady Catherine seemed content in her mind for the moment over some great weight now removed from her, and was less officious in her dealings with the decisions being made at the parsonage. That fact alone gave Charlotte a much needed reprieve from the woman’s constant suggestions that Mr. Collins took as edicts to obey whether sensible to the situation or not. Charlotte, in her own logical way found ways to use the suggestions to her advantage and thereby kept all parties satisfied. When reading her friend’s letter Elizabeth could not but smile at how ingeniously shrewd Charlotte was at negotiation and détente both to her obsequious husband and the autocratic great Lady De Bourgh.

It seems that life at the parsonage and at Rosings is serene…for the moment.

Upon seeing Elizabeth smiling as she concluded Charlotte’s letter, Darcy asked, “What do you find so amusing, wife?”

“Charlotte implies that your aunt has become almost docile at Rosings, an actuality I am sure is not the case, however much my friend would wish it so.”

“Does Mrs. Collins say anything of my cousin in her letter? Reports of the winter being unusually wet might aggravate her constitution.”

Perusing the final page again Elizabeth shook her head. “No, she does not make mention of Anne that I suppose to mean that she is as well as she ever was or else Charlotte would have said something of how Mr. Collins would be quite solicitous over any malady that had taken place for anyone at Rosings.”

Darcy merely nodded and went back to his book leaving Elizabeth to not give another moment’s thought to those in Kent, but rather now to focus on her letter from Jane, a rather thick one giving Elizabeth hope to enjoy for some time. However, upon opening it, there were few pages that surrounded swatches of material. The note began with Jane expounding on how very content were she and Charles, such happiness that Jane had never known to be possible. Elizabeth smiled knowing just the same feelings, glad that her sister had found equal felicity in marriage. Reading on, she found that although father had discouraged her, mother had taken it upon herself to frequent visits at Netherfield which were now the point where both Mr. Bennet and Charles felt the imposition keenly of a wife not in her proper place as Mr. Bennet actually missed her not ever being home. Charles, though amiable, began to show signs of some exasperation each time the carriage approached. Being Charles, however, Elizabeth knew he would never make his mother-in-law feel unwelcome, and would mostly likely put up with her chatter with the aplomb of a saint.

“It seems my mother frequents Netherfield almost to the exclusion of Longbourn now.”

“Ha! Well, Charles must be having the time of life with so many visits.”

“Your friend always spoke of Jane as being an angel. I think, however, that he must also have some of the attributes of such a heavenly creature to be so accommodating.”

“What are the pieces of material Jane sends in her missive?”

“She wishes my opinion on new curtains in the parlor and has sent several to have me choose.”

“She should have asked her husband.”

“Why on earth would Charles have an opinion on so mundane a decision as curtain fabric?”

“He has been quite decisive of late, ever since he became engaged to your sister.” Darcy’s eyes reverted back to his book as he continued, “write her back that he be allowed to choose, and let us see what she will make of that…unless you feel obligated to have an opinion on the Netherfield parlor curtains.”

Elizabeth knew a challenge when she heard one coming from her so innocently looking husband that she might do well to keep quiet about her own choice of fabric in favor of those who must live with the choice have the final say in the matter. “Very well, though Jane will not believe for an instant that I have no opinion on the matter.”

With eyes still glued to the page of his book he replied, “We shall see if Charles does.”

If not staying to her bed, Elizabeth dutifully remained at rest for most of her confinement with Darcy and Georgiana happy in their relief of her continuing to increase. They were glad to attend her every wish. All the servants too seemed aware of the delicate nature of the new Mistress, many of them being in service to the family long enough to remember the frailty of the previous Mrs. Darcy. Elizabeth’s effervescent optimism and consideration to their needs endeared her so much more so that the servants willingly offered Elizabeth every convenience. She continued with her attempts at painting some of the specimens in the arboretum to send to Kitty and those that still remained at Longbourn along with enlisting Mrs. Reynolds aid in matters of the household that were still worrisome to its mistress.

The fact was that since Mrs. Reynolds had to accept her master’s choice in a wife, she took the time Elizabeth required to learn the responsibilities of being the Mistress of Pemberley, a task so daunting at times that Elizabeth almost became overwhelmed at its revelation, but rose in face of the intimidation with determination to do right by all now. This attitude was so reminiscent of the master; the housekeeper could not but admire this young woman.

Elizabeth was saying of the task at hand, “I will do all in my power to have this be right, Mrs. Reynolds.” The housekeeper smiled at such a statement that could have just as easily come from the master.

Yes, mistress, I am sure you will.

Thus, even the formidable housekeeper was nearly convinced that this young woman seemed the rightful mistress of Pemberley, deserving her respect and assurance of support by all. Mrs. Reynolds thought of the master.

How had he known that she could be the one to take his mother’s place?

Then the housekeeper felt it, a sudden tension that had entered the room. Mrs. Reynolds looked up from the desk where she and the mistress occupied seats toward the doorway some twenty feet beyond them. There stood the master, motionless as he gazed upon his beloved. Elizabeth blushed with anticipation as she lowered her gaze, with eyes below her thick lashes, no longer seeing the forgotten pages in her hands. Finally, Elizabeth raised her eyes to meet his as a powerful surge washed across the room in their silent communication.

The hairs on Mrs. Reynolds neck stood on end as she witnessed the phenomenon of a love that was at once both soft as snowflakes falling and as overwhelming as being swept up in the tide. It left her breathless as she silently observed these two who were powerless against such a force, yet willingly allowed it to engulf them. Then just as suddenly, the master smiled at his wife and moved passed the door to have the sensation abate. The housekeeper slumped trying to catch her breath at last understanding a little more of what must have occurred to both these young people. Gazing at the woman beside her, Mrs. Reynolds noticed Elizabeth’s closed eyes trying likewise to recover from the incident. After some moments, she opened her eyes to gaze at the older lady, again blushing as she smiled.

Mrs. Reynolds could not but smile in return wondering that such a force truly existed to occupy Pemberley, that had become latent after the old mistress and master had passed away. This essence of Pemberley had waited patiently for the right young woman to arrive that it breathe on her, working on both the young master and his wife, filling them with such passion that they could act so against all their principles.

Even Pemberley knew she was the one.

Now even Mrs. Reynolds was wholeheartedly convinced that this was the rightful mistress of Pemberley. With her lovingly patient Darcy, and the shy but now cheerful Georgiana, Elizabeth learned quickly, growing into her position. Aided now by and even more faithful Mrs. Reynolds, Elizabeth began making decisions for the household based on the facts supplied her as well as her own sensible logic, the result being a smoother running of the manor.

Mrs. Reynolds was more than pleased with each of Elizabeth’s new suggestions and grew to regard this young mistress as one she could respect and admire to the point that not only did Mrs. Reynolds accept the master’s choice of wife, she now extended such fierce loyalty around Elizabeth as her true Mistress much as she did to both her other charges.

Shaking her head, the housekeeper wondered how she had ever doubted the master when all of his decisions were always correct for Pemberley. She thought of this couple united in all things, the happiest of marriages she had known since the old master. She had but to think of her own happy marriage to Mr. Fredrick Reynolds to wonder if the force she had witnessed residing in the house, especially in the hearts of Pemberley’s men guided them to their true love.

Mrs. Reynolds saw the proof of this with Darcy’s constancy to Elizabeth made known daily as he accompanied her to the solarium each morning before they breakfasted and to the chaise in the glassed arboretum in the afternoon being considerate that she not miss too terribly the wonderful grounds outside the windows during the winter months.

The master knew it in his heart that Elizabeth was the one even before she had ever stepped foot here.

It was early February with Elizabeth warm and snug beneath the eider down counterpane upon the bed and the fire had already been re-stoked though it was still quite early. The sun was just peeking over the trees and in from the slit of the heavy drapes. Moaning at such luxury, she felt movement on the bed as Darcy joined her beneath the covers, embracing her form to him, his hands resting on her now swelling waist. But when Darcy’s cheeks snuggled against her neck she gasped, and opened her eyes.

“You are so cold, Fitzwilliam!” And she began to shiver as he hugged her to him, his nose icy on her neck, his lips cold as he kissed hers. He continued until she moaned, protesting at being so chilled next to him.

As he smiled down at her surprised and confused expression. “Are you quite awake now?”

“Yes, quite so. Why are you so cold this early in the day?” She gasped. “Has something bad happened? Are the tenants well? Has there been a fire? Are you all right?”

He stared at her barrage of dire questions, as he calmly reassured her. “All is well, Elizabeth, I have merely been outside this early, and not only I.”

“What?”

He smiled. “Come to the window and see.”

“What is it?”

He wrapped her in the counterpane and helped her stand to walk to the window. Pulling back the drapes Elizabeth laughed at the scene below on the lawn.

There amid an array of snow people was Georgiana smiling and waving at Elizabeth, and jumping up and down. While she ran amongst the billowy white crowd, Georgiana began to dramatically introduce each snow person. She pretended to dance with one, curtsey to another, and laugh at the joke of a third. Then she pretend to be affronted at some remark of another, and in the process of slapping him, she knocked off his head, only to cover her mouth with both of her mittened hands and then laugh with glee. Elizabeth enjoyed all the antics of the now happy normal teenager, smiling and waving back.

Darcy nuzzled her neck, tightening his embrace. Her thoughtful husband whispering in her ear, “I have another gift for you, but you must first close your eyes.”

She smiled and murmured, “very well.”

And as she did so, he pulled something soft from his coat pocket and deposited the snowball down the back of her nightgown.

“Oh! It’s cold, it’s cold. It’s cold! You!”

She turned to face him, wanting to retaliate but knew not how. Then when she saw the look of glee upon his face, a look she had not seen in many months, her feigned displeasure melted as fast as did the snow down her back. She held her arms wide and he crushed her to him, hugging her as tight as possible.

“Thank you,” was all she could manage before his lips covered her. She didn’t even mind how cold his frame was against hers, as each was getting warm with every passing moment.

Over the next weeks with her continuing to increase, Elizabeth was now large enough that by the beginning of spring she had come to rely more heavily on Darcy’s strong arms. Having caught up on his correspondence for the moment, Darcy and Elizabeth shared this time in the front parlor, both sitting in chairs by the fireplace, reading contently. Looking up from his book he asked, “Are you ready soon to go to join Georgiana for tea?”

“Yes, Fitzwilliam, if you would please aid me to rise. I find getting in and out of chairs is somewhat bothersome of late since I am now the size of a house.”

He smiled knowing the correct response now. “You look radiant, my dear.”

She snorted. “You are required to say such things because you are my husband, but I see myself in the mirror each morning as Betty helps me dress. I now even require two maids to aid me into the bath lest I slip by being this ungainly and ungraceful.”

His mind registered her off hand comment of the bath, but he made no reply to it. Instead he placed his hands on her swollen belly and waited to feel the movement of the life within her. Still smiling he said, “you are the most beautiful woman I know, now made even more beautiful by motherhood. I love you, Lizzy.”

She smiled and nodded; afraid her voice would give way to tears as it so often did of late. He kissed her cheek and held her arm as they made their way to the music room and to Georgiana who dedicated countless hours playing and singing duets to the delight of both. They were becoming as devoted as any sisters. With Elizabeth’s guidance Georgiana was growing confident and bold.

Darcy too became so secure in Elizabeth’s love that even he had become so animated in his entertaining them with recitations from many poems or works of literature that his sister barely recognized him. In his growing happiness with his lovely bride, Georgiana finally witnessed first hand what the phrase meant “a true melding of hearts”. She felt her brother was finally utterly and completely happy.

For her part Georgiana delighted in finally having a sister to confide in, more so now even than a brother. Many a time Darcy would find them in a corner scheming in secretive whispers and giggles, sometimes even avoiding his company in their schemes. Having lived but a week at Longbourn, he began to see the benefit of a large family* with so many relationships in which to rely on and find enjoyment.

Yes, perhaps I often found Elizabeth’s sisters vulgar or uncouth and perhaps it was due to their upbringing as much as their personalities, but they did all seem to love one another despite their differences and the chaos.

Now seeing his sister’s pleasure in being able to disclose her inmost thoughts to Elizabeth, a female more her age, and to have that person direct her conduct with affection and insight, made Darcy’s heart light in the knowledge that Georgiana now had the greatest chance to grow into the woman he had always hoped her to become. At those times he would find the two women in his life in such conspiracy he would leave them without a thought of disturbing their camaraderie.

*Jane Austen herself was the second girl in a family of eight children. She had six brothers and her sister Cassandra all of whom she relied on and must have had much enjoyment from to give her insights into her wonderful stories.

One morning not long after their casual conversation in the parlor the bright crisp morning found the Darcys still lingering in her bed chambers.

“What are your plans today, my love?”

Elizabeth announced her intention of taking her bath within the hour before dressing and then to begin her correspondence. Little did she know this was not to be in any way the normal routine she had become accustomed when Darcy informed her that he would accompany her into and out of the bath for the remainder of her confinement. Elizabeth stared at him quite speechless at the necessity of his infringing now on the privacy of her bath.

Even Mrs. Reynolds gasped when within the hour she overheard his ordering both the mistress’ chambermaids from her rooms, maids who Mrs. Reynolds had purposefully selected to aid the mistress into and out of her bath. With his firm voice of the master she heard him say, “Remove yourselves to the other room at once, and do not return until I summon you.”

With barely curtseying and mumbled “yes, sirs” both maids hurried into the hallway to await further instructions, each with an expressions of surprise and uncertainty.

Elizabeth tired to placate her husband. “Fitzwilliam, this is unnecessary.”

“I insist.”

Darcy’s tone was adamant that he would not to be moved, and rather than argue the point Elizabeth agreed to allow him help her into the tub, her bath gown immediately becoming drenched. Without even looking long at his wife, Darcy strode to the door announcing to her maids, “you may re-enter now.”

The two maids hurried in with barely a curtsey while struggling with the bucket of warmed water between them, and all three women stare after the departing master as though he were unhinged.

“Madam.” Darcy turned upon gaining the door, stating in a voice that would brook no opposition, “I will be in your sitting room while you bathe, and you will call me to aid you from the tub. Do I make myself understood?”

He was looking directly at Elizabeth while hearing both maids acknowledge his command.

“Yes, sir.”

“Very clear, sir.”

“Mrs. Darcy, do you understand?”

Elizabeth stared at him for the longest time without reply, truly not gleaning his logic for why he suddenly could not abide anyone else aiding her from her bath, thinking of his wanting to control even this simple act in her daily routine.

Bristling, she replied, “no.”

The maids were awed by her audacity in the face of such a command, each shifting from one foot to the other, their eyes to the floor, waiting for an argument to ensue between the couple. The master, however, was silent and continued only to stare at his wife. It seemed after a very long moment that a communication passed between them to cause her to capitulate.

“No, I do not understand, Mr. Darcy…but I will obey.”

He nodded silently and removed himself from her dressing room, leaving her to enjoy her bath. Both maids let out sighs of relief, but could not bring themselves to speak a word, nor did Elizabeth wish to converse as she always had while bathing before. This was not the usual amusement she had become accustomed, and Elizabeth took very little time before she announced loudly to the master in the next room. “I am ready, Mr. Darcy”

The master entered without a word, handed one maid his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and bent down to take hold of his wife’s person, depositing her deftly to stand on the rug beside the tub. His eyes never tarried below her face, but only made sure she was securely standing before he motioned for the maid to hand him back his coat. Rolling his sleeves down once more, and donning his coat, without a word he exited from their presence.

Elizabeth shivered at the coldness of the room. Noticing this each maid made quick use of the towels to dry her, and aid her removing her bath gown to aid her quickly into her robe. Betty then entered to help her dress for the day. Not one word was spoken during the whole process as they all wondered of the master’s odd behavior.

Thereafter, each day for the next week, when the mistress was readied for her bath, there would be the master to aid her into the tub without preamble. The maids accepted this new edict becoming accustomed to his being about for this task, although all including the mistress still seemed at odds with it, but none had yet to inquire of its necessity. Darcy sat at her small desk in her sitting room patiently waiting for Elizabeth to be ready for him to aid her from the bath, now having brought a few letters or business correspondence to work on in the meantime.

This seventh day Darcy had worked diligently for nearly an hour, when Elizabeth had yet to announce her readiness to be removed. Thinking this odd he stilled his pen and asked, “Mrs. Darcy, are you ready?”

At not receiving any reply, he rose from his chair, striding the short distance to her dressing room door again asking, “Mrs. Darcy, surely you are ready by now.”

Again, there was no response. He was at the door now, pushing it open to find the room seemingly deserted. No maids were present, and no Elizabeth. Making his way to the tub, Darcy spied her under the water, eyes closed, and her hair and bathing attire floating about her. He gasped and grabbed her by the shoulders whereupon her eyes flew open as he pulled her out from under the water, his face devastated. She was incensed.

“What are you doing!”

“What am I doing? I am rescuing you from drowning!”

“I was rinsing my hair which I wash every week during my bath.” She motioned for him to hand her a towel that she may put to use to dry her locks.

“Where are your maids? I will have them out of our employee for having abandon you-“

“You will do no such thing. I gave them leave to get more hot water as my bath has cooled considerably, and the kitchen is the only place where there is more.”

“Both maids are required for this task?”

“It is a very heavy bucket for maids.”

“I will not have them leaving you alone.”

“Fitzwilliam, I was in no danger while you were in the next room.”

Just then the maids re-entered sharing the bucket handle and laughing, only to freeze in motion when they saw the stern look of the master upon them. “Get out!”

Both maids hurriedly retreated into the hallway while the master continued his conversation with his wife.

“Is it normal for you to take this long for your bath on this day of the week?”

“Yes.”

When she did not meet his gaze he wondered. “You are not merely…avenging yourself upon me due to you’re being upset by the precautions I have taken with regard to your bath?”

Her eyebrows raised and she admitted, “I…could have informed you before hand, but chose not to-”

“Then you are upset with me. Elizabeth, when you told me one day of your almost slipping while being removed from your bath, I was afraid that you might harm yourself or the baby, and I could not allow that.”

“I never said that I slipped, only the fear of it now that I am so ungainly. Truly, Fitzwilliam, these maids were chosen by Mrs. Reynolds especially for their trustworthiness to assure my safety.”

Darcy stared into the eyes of his beloved to see the sound reasoning behind her words to calm his rancor of careless maids. “I suppose I should have discussed this with you before I instituted this new policy, realizing how you would feel about my imposition, but…”

She motioned for him to retrieve another towel which she held against her still folded. “It was not true anger that I experienced, Fitzwilliam. I was merely surprised at so sudden a dismissal of my maids that Mrs. Reynolds trusted enough to the task, and did not know how to respond to such an arbitrary infringement upon so innocuous a chore as a routine bath. I will admit to some little resentment of your controlling my activities, but not real anger.”

He nodded his admission of his own mishandling of his wish to keep her from harm.

She smiled adding, “I was wondering how long it would take you to come in for me when this bath took so much longer. I am freezing, Fitzwilliam.”

He gazed down at her form, apparent under the flimsy, wet garment, noting how goose bumps had appeared on her arms. “I… see that now. Do you wish me to recall your maids to re-warm your bath water?” She shook her head. “No? Do you…wish me to remove you from your bath now?”

She nodded and put her arms around his neck. With ease he helped her out, making sure she was securely standing on the rug before removing his hands from her. He busied himself encircling her with the large towels to have her no longer dripping wet. “Madam, do you still require my aid?” When she did not reply his gaze fell upon her face staring back.

She tiptoed and kissed his lips and then stared at him, silently conveying her wishes. His return kiss was so ardent that it left her in no doubt of his feelings on the matter. Darcy picked her up and carried her through the doorway to her bedroom, slamming the door soundly with his foot.

The maids, in the meantime, dutifully waited outside in the hallway until the water in the bucket was as cold as ice. “What are we to do, Lucy?”

Listening at the door Lucy declared, “Well, Hatty, I am sure the mistress is no longer in her bath and this water is now too cool for that purpose.” Turning the knob slowly and peering in, Lucy had a confirmation of her statement. Together, they trudged the bucket back to the kitchen, not knowing if they were still employed by the master.

It was later that same day that the two maids found out when the master himself came upon them and spoke as they dutifully curtseyed, hanging their heads and not daring to look up.

“I usually have Mrs. Reynolds issue my orders, but since you are here I would tell you directly.” There was a pause before he continued. “I realize now that you were only doing the mistress’ bidding this morning.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Aye, sir.”

“I do not wish to have your mistress left alone in her bath…ever. Do you understand?”

“O’course, sir.”

“Yes, sir.”

“If she wishes her hair washed on this day of the week while at her bath, I will instruct Mrs. Reynolds to have a fire set in the mistress’s room for the task of heating water that you will not have far to go.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Very good, sir.”

“Procure a smaller bucket that needs only one of you to manage.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Yes, sir.”

“I will continue to aid her in and out of her bath.” There was a pause.

“Yes, sir.”

“O’course, sir.”

There was another pause before he dismissed them with, “Carry on.” Another pause.

“Thank you, sir.”

“Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.”

Their master watched as they both hurriedly curtseyed and rushed to find Mrs. Reynolds, both sighing with relief that they were still employed.

Chapter 18a

Posted on Wednesday, 23 March 2005

yes

After their marriage Charles wrote that he and Jane decided not to renew the lease at Netherfield, and inquired of Darcy to keep a vigilant eye out for an estate nearer to them in the North. Bingley had grown up in the region, often telling Jane of his fondness for the area, but realized at the time of their wedding that Jane would be reluctant to move away from all her dear family and had been glad that Netherfield was so close to Longbourn.

However, with Mrs. Bennet in constant attendance at Netherfield even good natured Charles came to be less cheerful with his mother-in-law to the point that now our Jane saw the wisdom in removing to a more remote residence.

All the while Elizabeth had longed for a visit by her most beloved sister whom she had not the pleasure of seeing since Jane’s wedding. Even with the wonderful rapport Elizabeth experienced with Georgiana as well as the newest neighbors Elizabeth had lately become acquainted, especially Lylith Winthrop who was now a weekly correspondent, Elizabeth still missed the camaraderie of Jane that none could duplicate.

Though it was not in her nature to complain with Elizabeth mentioning it but once, Darcy had anticipated both her feelings and that of the Bingleys, and had correctly surmised his wife’s truly missing not having any of her family near, especially Jane. He himself admitted to his missing Bingley’s warm company, and so quietly began making inquiries regarding one or two of the neighboring estates. It was so seldom an occurrence that properties came on the market without being enmeshed in wills, family trusts or entailments to tie up their disposal for years in court proceedings, Darcy knew he would have to be shrewd in his dealings and quick to act should he spot a property worthy of what Bingley would wish.

When I find a potentially suitable arrangement I shall notify Charles of it at once.

Not long afterwards the Blakely estate came discreetly to be for sale due to the death of the only remaining heir, leading Darcy to promptly inquire an interview and an inspection, and was encouraged at finding the property the very picture of what Charles had mentioned he would require. The tenants had been eager for another master whose honesty and fairness was the equal of their old one who after some twenty years in attendance had recently passed away. As some weeks went by without any interest in the property, however, the tenants and servants were cautiously optimistic when rumor spread of Fitzwilliam Darcy coming to view the estate. Upon his inspection of the manor he accompanied by his steward, Mr. Withers, made the rounds to the cottages of the tenants to have discussions with them as well that he gain more insight into the actual state of the lands and their own honest assessment of future productivity. It became clear to all that Mr. Darcy was making inquiries on behalf of someone other than himself and this fact made everyone wary until Darcy assured them that should his friend become their new master he would be fair and just with all just as had their old master had been, and they needn’t worry.

When Darcy forwarded a letter to open negotiations with the solicitors who were handling the management of the property, he also sent Bingley an express suggesting that if he and Jane should care to visit Pemberley, at this time it might be advantageous to them. His final sentence hinted that an estate might be had for one willing to take charge of it.

Bingley’s response was swift and to the point with all the smudges and splotches of one excited in a rush to reply, so much so that Darcy chuckled when he could barely decipher the missive he had received not three days prior to that of his to Charles. He sat at his desk in his study having removed and draped his topcoat over the back of his chair when Elizabeth entered and approached him. He held up the letter to her as he gathered her about the waist and placed her upon his lap. By this time Elizabeth’s embarrassment was minimal regarding his indiscreet actions to her person since arriving at Pemberley. Many of the servants had so often been witness to his carrying her from one part of the house to the other for these many months that it would no longer daunted them as anything out of the ordinary to see her upon the master’s lap. Still Elizabeth continued to blush at such actions, and was doing so now when Darcy gave her Charles’ near illegible missive to peruse. Darcy leaned closer to her as he tried to aid her at her deciphering the scrawls on the page, but instead found himself instantly in an amorous state by inhaling the lavender of her perfume.

Trying to stay coherent Darcy voiced, “I think…Charles is saying that he is consenting to the suggestion that he come to view the property for himself within a fortnight, but does not wish to appear too eager in front of the solicitors.”

“Perhaps Jane has now persuaded him of her wish to be closer to Pemberley and further away from Longbourn. Her most recent letter mentions the frequency of mother’s visits as to curtail much of Jane’s more desirous moments of privacy for which all newly married couples pine.” She felt Darcy’s warm breath upon her neck as he stole a kiss.

“Yes, perhaps that is so. I know that I am grateful for the distance between Longbourn and Pemberley. Though I love and respect your family, I lack the social graces that Charles and Jane possess to forebear their society so much as they have.”

Elizabeth nodded at his admitting his jealousy of sharing her even with family in much the same way he felt for those acquaintances of the town and for their nearest neighbors in Derbyshire who now appreciate her society. He took her hand and kissed it, seeing her smile at this action.

“Am I correct in assuming that you have a similar opinion of parceling out your attentions to so many with your currently limited energy?”

“You know it is so, Fitzwilliam, and you have been blessed by not having to entertain many of our Derbyshire neighbors due to my troublesome confinement, to have had me all to yourself these passed months. It has been to your great delight, no doubt.”

“Quite so, my dear.”

He leaned in and captured her lips in a most ardent kiss, lingering as long as possible, not pulling his mouth from hers until they both required breath. Elizabeth’s eyes remained closed as she relished the sensations her husband had caused her while she tried to regulate her breathing. She whispered aloud her own yearnings. “ I hope no one ever joins us.”

Gazing upon his wife, her eyes so filled with desire for him, in that instant Darcy wanted nothing more than to succumb to the temptation of more amorous behavior. His lips tasted her neck and he longed to have her at that very moment. With breathless anticipation his eyes cast about the study to view their surroundings only to give his mind pause to reason through his desires. He swallowed, ashamed now of ever allowing himself to harbor such a thought involving Elizabeth.

I think not.

Rejecting the notion aided him to regain his control, and he withdrew his lips from her so kissable neck, choosing instead to touch his brow to hers to give Elizabeth some relief from his onslaught. She required several minutes for her breathing to be under greater regulation which allowed her too the realization of what room they presently occupied, how their passions had almost taken them over, and finally at the absurdity of so inappropriate a setting. While sitting upon his lap gazing at his desk piled high with correspondences and quills, Elizabeth was the first to giggle, a very becoming blush spreading across her face. When she lifted her eyes finally to meet her equaling blushing husband, he too began to laugh, thinking that had they continued he knew not how he would have been able to view his desk quite the same. He hugged her tighter as they both continued to laugh softly

After some moments of silence, it was Darcy who first voiced the jest. “Perhaps we are being too hasty in planning to move even your sister so close. Might not an estate further away than five miles be more prudent to our needs?”

She at first could do no more than nod in agreement while still laughing, finally adding, “perhaps Lord Thompson has relatives in Scotland. Renfrewshire perhaps might have some estate available. Would that not be far enough away?”

Gently kissing her cheek Darcy quipped. “I doubt any would far enough away.”

The day finally came when the Bingleys were due to arrive at Pemberley. Elizabeth was in such an anxious excitable state that both Darcy and Georgiana worried about her exuberance at her sister’s coming as she continued questioning them of all she had planned.

“Are you sure all is in readiness in the guest chambers? Are you sure it is as I have instructed?”

Darcy sat reading at the breakfast table with a bemused expression, but without gazing up from his paper replied, “Yes, my dear. I am assured Mrs. Reynolds has everything in order.”

“But are you sure the room will meet their approval?”

Darcy peered above the pages of the newspaper and gazed at his sweet wife, placing his hand upon hers and smiling. “Calm yourself, Elizabeth. You will see that both of our relations will approve of everything about them, my love. It will be a wondrous holiday for them and for us. You know that there are not two people in the world more amiable than Charles and your sister.”

Elizabeth smiled and sighed. “Yes, that is true, dear.” She continued drinking her tea and tried to resume eating while awaiting the carriage bringing Jane to her.

It was late afternoon and still the Bingleys had yet to make their appearance. Darcy had thus far been unsuccessful in getting Elizabeth to rest for more than a few moments at a time while they awaited the Bingleys’ arrival. With her fidgeting and wringing her hands wondering what could be keeping them, a smile broke upon Darcy’s face as he viewed her mannerisms so similar to Mrs. Bennet when fretting.

“Careful, my dear,” he chided while trying to remain stern as his mouth twitched to smile, “lest you turn into your mother.”

“Am I?” She stopped her hands from fidgeting and placed them on his chest, allowing him to embrace her. Only then did she seem to calm.

“While the Bingleys are in residence you must remember all that the doctor has told you about not becoming too excited with too much overdoing.”

“I know, I know. It is just that I have not seen Jane for all these months and I have missed her so very much. Corresponding merely in letters is never as satisfying.”

“She will be nearer to you from now on should they accept the offer of the Blakely estate with it being barely 10 miles distance there and back. Should you wish it, you may see her everyday.” He kissed her forehead.

“You are truly the best of men, Fitzwilliam.”

“I am as you have made me, Elizabeth.” He caressed her cheek, and began to place tender kisses trailing from her earlobe down her neck.

At that moment they both heard the carriage traversing the grassy path toward the house and Georgiana burst into the room, rushing to the window to get the first glance.

“They are come! They are come!”

Elizabeth struggled from Darcy’s arms and waddled quickly to the window. Georgiana held her hand, her face nearly pressed to the window, filled with excitement of the visitors whom she had come to love most dearly. Darcy came to stand behind them, his arms encasing Elizabeth to him and teased. “Shall we meet them at the doorway, the front stairs, or would you prefer to apply for the coachman’s job and hand them out of the carriage yourself, my wife?”

Georgiana slapped his arm. “Fitzwilliam, do be serious!”

“I am perfectly serious, Georgie. Elizabeth has been up since day break without rest, and I am serious that she not overtax herself.”

“I will rest as soon as they are settled, Fitzwilliam as I have already promised you.”

His arms tightened around her expanding waistline, and he kissed her head.

“As soon as Jane and Charles are taken to their rooms, you will take to your own bed as well and-”

“Oh, but no, Fitzwilliam, I must see that the dinner arrangements are in order and-”

“No, you will allow Georgiana to take over your duties as hostess, and allow Mrs. Reynolds to take care of the dinner. I will not have you over tiring yourself just as you are rebounding.” Smiling he whispered, “Did you not agree to submit and obey me on our wedding day?” She smiled back and blushed at his innuendo, but knew his true meaning.

“Yes, my love. I can deny you nothing. You know my feelings on this matter.”

“It gladdens me to know that my wife retains such a good memory of the event.”

Darcy’s words were in jest, but he was nonetheless relieved that Elizabeth easily acquiesced as she had done to all he had asked of her. Never since that terrible argument when they had first arrived at Pemberley had Elizabeth ever refused anything he asked regarding her well being. As he embraced her sweet form, feeling her warmth next to his chest, Darcy felt all the love she had for him, and his fears for her health abated for the moment.

Elizabeth decided for Darcy’s sake as much as hers that they would sit in the parlor to receive her sister. Darcy held her hand which he noted was trembling with excitement though her face was a mask of serenity as near to Jane’s as she could muster. However, when Wilkins opened the door to announce Mr. & Mrs. Bingley both sisters flew into one another’s arm, clinging to each other tightly.

“Oh, Lizzy, how I have missed you!”

“Jane, Jane, you have no idea how glad I am you are come!”

Tears flowed readily from both at their current happiness while both husbands merely shook hands and smiled at the over abundance of emotions emanating from their wives. Georgiana gently hugged Mr. Bingley in welcome.

“Have you grown since I saw you last, Miss Georgie?”

“Not in height I think, Mr. Bingley, but perhaps in strength of resolve.”

“Yes,” he agreed. “You do seem more confident and less unsure of yourself now. That is pleasing.”

Jane finally relinquished her hold of her sister, holding her by the hands to view her progress. “You look so radiant now, Lizzy. And you are well?”

“Yes, more so than when last you saw me. Do I not appear more the silhouette of Uncle Gardiner?” Elizabeth turned sideways to show Jane her silhouette.

Jane nodded, covering her mouth as she giggled. “He would be most please to see you thus, I am sure.”

Now the spouses exchanged partners for hugs. “Elizabeth, I have never seen you appear so happy, not even at your wedding. I am most pleased at such an improvement. Are you not?”

“I am exceedingly so, Charles. You have no idea.”

Charles whispered in her ear. “I think I do.”

She stared at this statement reading the joy glowing in his face.

“You and Jane are…?”

“Yes, but we want to wait to announce it to all at supper.”

“This makes me so happy for you. I will keep your secret until then.”

“Thank you, Elizabeth.” He hugged her again and then released her to have them both engage Georgie in conversation.

Darcy had his arms about his sister-in-law and asked, “Was your journey uneventful? I hope the roads were not too mired by the spring thaw that you had trouble getting through?”

“No, the roads were passable, and the ride smooth, sir.”

“But…something is different about you.”

Jane smiled and blushed at Mr. Darcy’s sensitivity, and she hugged him tightly. He could immediately feel the change in her as when he hugged his own wife. He gasped, and saw the confirmation on her face. He beamed at the thought that she too was now with child. He gently kissed her cheek.

“You must be tired from your journey. Let me show you to your rooms where the servants have placed your trunks. After you have rested I shall come for you when dinner is announced.”

Jane and Elizabeth hugged again, both glad to be close again by this visit to share more of their lives. Darcy had Elizabeth sit once more on the chaise promising a swift return, before he joined the Bingleys to show them their rooms above stairs. Georgiana remained with Elizabeth holding her hand.

“Are you happier now knowing that Jane will be almost as close to us as Longbourn was to Netherfield should they accept the offer of the Blakely estate?”

Elizabeth kissed Georgiana’s hand and affirmed her statement. “Yes, Georgie, I have missed her so much with only letters between us to tell of our thoughts and fears, our desires and hopes. Now to have her truly with me again is so wonderful an occurrence.”

Before Georgiana could feel remorse of losing Elizabeth to one seemingly dearer to her, Elizabeth sensed the young girl’s feelings of displacement, and spoke encouraging words. “And now, you too will have another sister to share your confidences. You will see first hand how blessed it is to have Jane’s goodness for your companion. Oh, Georgie, she is truly the best person I have ever known.”

As Georgiana saw Elizabeth’s eyes fill with tears, she knew the truth of what she spoke, that Jane would soon be another wonderful person added to her young life to give her much joy and encouragement. She hugged her sister. “I shall be honored to know her better, Lizzy.”

“We are so blessed with her presence, Georgie.” Elizabeth rested her head in her young sister’s shoulder, happy with all the joys now coming into her life.

Upon leaving Charles and Jane at the door of the guest chambers Darcy returned to Elizabeth and Georgiana who had remained in the parlor, the afternoon sun streaming brightly, bathing the already pleasant room with a warm glow.

“Georgie, are you up the task of hostess for the night?” Darcy held his hands out which Elizabeth gratefully accepted that he aid her from her chair.

“Yes, Fitzwilliam, I can manage for one night to give Elizabeth time to rest.” She kissed her sister’s cheek and departed the room in search for Mrs. Reynolds to make her apprised of the change.

Darcy accompanied his wife to her own chambers, taking the stairs slowly to give her time to catch her breath after the first two landings. Entering her chambers with the garden walls always gave Elizabeth the urge to take a breath, expecting the smell of the wondrous outdoors they depicted to invade her senses. She paused in her reflections as she felt Darcy’s arms wrap around her. Leaning against his frame she sighed.

“Are you happy now that you have your Jane back?”

“Hmm, yes, but I think Charles would have something to say as to whether she is still mine.”

Darcy left a trail of soft kisses down from her ear to the base of her neck, smiling as he felt her responding to his touch. Gently he lifted her into his arms, walking the short distance through to her bed chambers to deposit her gently upon her bed.

With a kiss against her temple he repeated, “You need to rest, Elizabeth.” His hand caressed her cheek.

“Stay with me, Fitzwilliam.”

“Can you guarantee to rest should I stay beside you?”

She nodded at his tease, kissing his lips softly and then snuggling against his chest, obediently closing her eyes and inhaling his scent. His hand caressed her brow which he knew relaxed her, and soon heard her soft regular breathing tickling him through the thin linen of his shirt above his vest. Taking a deep breath he inhaled her lavender scent, thankful for her un-argued compliance. Darcy yawned. Intending to recline with Elizabeth but for a short time before rising to dress for dinner, he closed his eyes. Such contentment enveloped his person at that moment that Darcy too fell into a blissful slumber which lasted until a gentle tapping upon the door of Elizabeth’s sitting room woke Darcy. Opening his eyes to glance at Elizabeth still asleep, he gingerly rose from the bed so as not to disturb her repose, and neared the door while trying to clear his mind from slumber.

“Yes, what is it?”

From the other side of the door a calm voice spoke. “It is Wilkins, sir. I was to inform you that it is well passed the dinner hour.”

“All right, Wilkins, Tell the Bingleys we will be down shortly.”

“Sir, if you please.” There was a pause before the butler added, “the Bingleys have not yet made an appearance either, sir, and Miss Georgiana asked that neither couple be disturbed.”

Now fully awake Darcy surmised that both Charles and Jane must have been more fatigued from their journey than they appeared and required additional rest. He smiled at his now intuitive sister’s correct assessment of the situation to have boldly altered the evening’s events to accommodate all parties. Wilkins continued, “Miss Georgiana further requested that a simply repast of cheese and fruit be sent up to them should they awaken at a later time, and had me send word of apology on your behalf to Claude for spoiling his dinner arrangements.”

“Wilkins, thank you. Mrs. Darcy is also still resting. You may have some fruit and cheese sent to her as well should she awaken.”

So it happened that it was not until breakfast the next morning that all parties gathered fully rested to make sensible conversation. As coffee was served during the end of their meal, Darcy and Charles began discussing the possibility of a bit of fishing for a few hours before returning to the lunch meal. This left the three ladies to find their own diversions. Georgiana had several missives to answer before she wished to practice several new pieces of music she wished later to teach Elizabeth in order to accompany her. Jane stated she wished to browse through the famous Darcy library. Elizabeth offered to join her.

They had not been long there selecting several books that caught Jane’s interest when Elizabeth was called away by Mrs. Reynolds to handle one of the duties she had lately been put in charge. No longer needing the housekeeper’s guidance, Mrs. Reynolds left Elizabeth to preside over a disagreement between two scullery maids. Listening attentively to both preambles of offense Elizabeth then suggested a solution to put an end to the squabble.

“I gather that neither of you wish to leave our employee?”

“Oh no, Mistress!” both maids replied at once with little Phoebe avowing with a shy smile, “especially when such a joyous occurrence is afoot,” alluding to the birth of the Darcy baby.

“Aye,” agreed Mildred, a wooden soup held for emphasis, “to hear the house filled once more with the sound of a child’s laughter, neither of us wish to go, ma’am.”

Both then readily agreed to Elizabeth’s plan. “Are you sure you are satisfied with my solution? I could have the master intervene-”

Phoebe’s eyes widened with awe still of the master. “Oh no, Mistress, we are agreed to have you settle our dispute.”

“Yes, ma’am, what you suggest seems fair. That way we both get part of what we wanted.”

“You both think what I suggest is equitable?”

“Oh, yes, Mistress. There won’t be no more trouble now. Mildred and I is fine with what you decided.”

“Yes, ma’am, tis true enough. We don’t want you worrying no more about us.”

“But should you feel the need to talk more of it, you both know you may come to me. I would not wish either of you to be unhappy in our employee.”

“No, ma’am. We like being here at Pemberley, and don’t wish to be nowheres else.”

“Aye, that’s the truth, mistress.”

“Then I am glad of it. You both may go about your duties then.”

“Yes, ma’am,” both maids voiced as they curtseyed and left Elizabeth’s office. Elizabeth smiled puffed up with a haughtiness at her growing confidence which Darcy made note of her possessing to enable her make decisions involving the running of Pemberley. But as fate would have it, she was immediately humbled as she struggled some difficulty to merely rise from her chair to rejoin Jane in the library. She laughed and shook her head at her own audacity and pride.

Where are Fitzwilliam’s strong arms when I need them? At the rate I am increasing now I am going to need not only maids but man servants to aid me!

The evening meal that Claude had planned was of scrumptious salmon, pheasant in wine sauce that the Darcys shared in the company of their beloved family. Jane’s gentle countenance easily began to endear her to Georgiana as the evening progressed. Darcy could see how happy both Elizabeth and her sister were, enjoying the reunion. He too began to relax at the ease which came in such delightful companions.

“Mr. Bingley, are you and Mrs. Bingley decided on the purchase of the Blakely estate?” Georgiana’s voice was quiet, but with a confidence that until recently had been unusual for her.

Bingley was jovial but honest in his response to her. “Well, Miss Georgiana, we will have to view it first hand to make absolutely sure, but if it is all Darcy says, then, yes, perhaps you will have us as new neighbors sooner than you think. Would that be agreeable to you?”

“Oh, yes,” gushed the young woman, smiling. “To have your company once more and now dear Jane would be something I would look forward to frequently.”

Bingley paused before stating, “You may also have additions to us as well, Miss Georgiana.”

Georgiana thought Mr. Bingley might be referring to that of his sisters who would no doubt be frequent visitors to his estate, and her less than enthusiastic response followed. “Oh, well…I am sure it will be pleasant to see Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst once again.”

Bingley and Jane exchanged glances with her slight nod. He smiled and turned to Darcy’s sister. “It is not my sisters to whom I refer.”

Georgiana opened her mouth, confused now of what he was talking.

“What Charles means to say, dear Georgiana, is that Lizzy’s baby may soon have a cousin to play with.”

Gasping, “Oh, Jane, is it true?” Georgiana jumped from her chair to hug Jane. “I am so happy for you. Fitzwilliam, is this not wonderful news?”

“It is indeed, Georgie.” He raised his glass in salute. “To baby Bingley.”

“Here! Here!”

The evening progressed admirably with Georgiana and Elizabeth entertaining the rest with singing and playing several Bach concertos in the music room. When finally the evening drew to a close all were happy with how events were evolving in such future happiness.

Chapter 18b

Posted on Tuesday, 5 April 2005

Over the next few weeks Pemberley was bathed in a blissful atmosphere as the servants easily became accustomed to having the Bingleys in residence with all their tranquility and ease. Darcy could not remember a time when he had felt as contented in company nor when Elizabeth had been so pleased with the outcome. Indeed, even Georgiana had made progress in her own growth with the gentle guidance of yet another sister. If not for the nagging worry Darcy felt for Elizabeth and the baby, he would have been completely happy.

Upon entering the marriage state Darcy had begun receiving unsolicited correspondence from his older cousin, Lord Taddington, Richard’s older brother Hal and who no doubt was informed of Darcy’s marriage by his parents hinting that he should do likewise instead of cavorting around London in a life of idleness and ill repute.

There had been gossip spreading around the town and at Darcy’s club that Hal was harboring a mistress together with a child no doubt hers by another man much to the Fitzwilliam family’s consternation. The reason they were pressuring him to find a suitable woman to marry was to give them the heirs required for a continuance of the earldom.

Hal’s missives though insightful, were not as useful as Darcy would wish for information he required to know what he should expect as the months of Elizabeth’s confinement wore on, but Darcy got the impression that Hal cared deeply for this woman he kept who now seemed to be with a child again. Darcy wondered if Hal would try to aid her older son into some gentleman’s life just as Darcy’s own father had attempted with Wickham.

I hope for your sake, Hal, you have better luck than did my father in his efforts.

Reading the last page of Hal’s latest missive Darcy paused to wonder as he re-read the closing paragraph.

…my having more knowledge this time around to anticipate Sarah’s moods have given me more patience with her sometimes unreasonable requests, realizing that each confinement is complex in its differences from the last. Trying to keep up with the change of mien is the key, cousin, that and a good stock of brandy to fortify the both of you! Though I admit to some trepidation with the departure of having to deal with so sickly a wife as I have learn you too are likewise dealing, be calmed in the knowledge that there is a time limit to this trial which will eventually end with yet another mouth to feed. You shall persevere, cousin, as do we all. I remain ever your faithful cousin, Hal (Lord Taddington)

Darcy pondered upon his cousin’s words at last realizing what they meant.

His mistress is with child again, and that she is not fairing well in her confinement...and that it being a departure from the last must mean…I wonder if the boy is not merely hers but is…Hal’s. Has he created a family outside marriage against his parents’ wishes with children who would not be eligible to inherit because Hal did not bother to marry their mother before the boy’s birth?

Grateful that he himself had protected Elizabeth and his child with his own quickly arranged marriage, Darcy grew angry at his older cousin’s careless behavior at leaving his children, if they were his, and their mother so exposed and defenseless to the ridicule of society and not provided for should anything, however unlikely, befall to Hal.

How can a man be so reckless with one he professes to love?

Shaking his head, Darcy felt dismayed with his own family’s lack of moral integrity with each passing year, their behavior far surpassing any impropriety he ever viewed in Elizabeth’s family.

We are supposed to be the elite of society, but we are as much savages as any tribe in the wilderness.

Disgusted, he threw the letter on his desk and rose to find the one person who was the embodiment of all things right in the world. He wanted to be with his wife. He needed Elizabeth.

With Elizabeth having broached the subject of requesting information regarding her situation to her aunt, Darcy likewise began receiving missives from Mr. Gardiner of encouragement and insight that aided him with additional knowledge to give him hope of a successful conclusion to their ordeal.

Finally, some useful information.

His anxiety though keen seemed to be manageable at last with such confirmation of being patient and acquiescence to what seem like unreasonable whims to his wife, being flexible to contrastingly changing moods that have no basis in logic, and to be caring and kind to the woman he loved, Darcy began to relax in the notion that perhaps all this chaos was normal with his wife. Dr. Smith too seemed to be more at ease with the progress of this phase of Elizabeth’s confinement and rescinding some of his more stringent edicts of curtailing her activities much to Elizabeth’s relief.

“Yes, well, perhaps some activity would be in order now that you seem to be flourishing,” Dr. Smith admitted after his weekly examination.

She was allowed to walk but briefly with the accompaniment of another trusted family member or servant on the paths very near the house, but never farther. This alone gave the mistress the freedom she craved and she promised to adhere to Dr. Smith’s limitations without regret, having her moods much improve over the next months.

This happy time was filled with Bingley and Darcy renewing their sport of game and fish amid supervising the refurbishing of Blakely. The ladies, meanwhile, remained in Elizabeth’s company in the sunny parlor or when the weather permitted, in chaises on the open balcony, basking in the warmth of the spring thaw. Jane caught Elizabeth up on all the latest news of Meryton, who had become engaged, who married, who had left the vicinity for more adventurous a life.

“I have already related in my most recent letter to you that father has given permission to Squire Ferguson’s son to court Mary. Do you remember at my wedding when Jeremy Ferguson danced the waltz with Mary to the surprise of all? Well, it seems young Mr. Ferguson has always been attracted to our sister, but was too shy before to ask her to stand up with him. It seems that Charles heard of his interest when conversing with several of the other neighbors, and made Jeremy Ferguson aware that Mary would not be averse to the attention.”

Elizabeth could not help but giggle. “Charles played matchmaker? Jane, I had no idea he had such a talent.”

Jane’s eyes grew large and her face flushed at the thought. “Nor did I, Lizzy. It would seem that my husband was more attuned to our younger sister’s wishes than I.”

Elizabeth was all astonishment at this news. “Well, it seems that Mr. Jeremy Ferguson took Charles’ advice to heart.”

“Well, no, Lizzy, not straight away. Charles said he had spoken to him of it at your wedding, and it had taken young Mr. Ferguson almost 2 months to get up the nerve to ask Mary to dance!”

Both Georgie and Elizabeth began to giggle at such procrastination. “I wonder then if they should ever marry before we all have grandchildren.”

“Oh, I am sure mother will hurry things along, especially when Charles and I remove from Netherfield and there are no further distractions to her efforts.”

Sipping tea for a moment’s silence, Elizabeth asked, “I had yet to have any correspondence from either of our younger sisters, not that I expected any, of course, but what have Kitty and Lydia found in the way of amusement since the militia are now removed from Meryton and you and I are both gone from the house?”

Jane sipped her tea before responding to Elizabeth’s inquiry. “Lydia and Kitty and Mariah Lucas have formed a kind of mutuality, going often into Meryton together to see what diversions they might find in the village. I fear they are not so amused now that all the officers are removed to Brighton. Lydia still laments when she receives missives from Colonel Forester’s wife requesting she be allowed to join her there as her particular companion, but father was adamant that she remain at Longbourn…especially after…”

Jane’s voice trailed off as she glanced first at Georgiana and then at Elizabeth’s imperceptible shake of her head which let Jane know that the young girl had not been informed of all the circumstances surrounding the quickly arranged marriage of her brother and herself.

Georgiana encouraged her to continue with, “…especially after what, Jane?”

Jane’s cheeks colored as she finished her sentence. “…after your brother’s engagement and wedding to my sister. My family was so overwrought with such excitement that my father wished the household return to some normalcy for the time being.”

Elizabeth too blushed and merely nodded in agreement at Jane’s cautious phrasing while young Georgiana brightened as an idea formed in her head.

“Jane, do you think either Kitty or Lydia would care to begin a correspondence with me? They are more my age and perhaps we would have common interests to expound upon in letters to the benefit of all. Do you feel they would be at all receptive to such a notion?”

“Dear Georgiana, I think both would love to hear from you, especially Kitty whose humor had sunk to a less than a cheerful one when she learned of my leaving the area in future. Your kind suggestion to begin such a correspondence with her might brighten her spirits.”

“Then I shall begin today and have my first letter in the next post.” Georgiana rose from her chair and entered the house to think on what she would say to a sister so like her in age.

“She is a wonderful young woman, Lizzy. You have done well in bringing her round to care for others instead of remaining in so pitiful a state due to her own misery.”

“I do so love her as dear as all my other sisters, Jane. Fitzwilliam has been instrumental in her education and upbringing. I just arrived in time to guide her through the most trying time, but she has healed herself of her woes and now seems well on her way to adulthood as you will now witness with your moving into the area. I do hope you and Charles will be happy at Blakelys, Jane.”

“I know we shall, dear Lizzy, being so close to you and Fitzwilliam and Georgie. Charles had already made his mind up to stay once he saw the house and the grounds. He said it was like coming home again after being away for a long time.”

“Soon you too will feel the same.”

“I am sure I shall, dear Lizzy if it is anything as similar as this serenity of being here at Pemberley. I can now understand how you tried to convey your feelings for the place in your letters when you first view this place.”

Elizabeth smiled. It seemed no one was immune to the effects of Pemberley.

During Elizabeth’s afternoon naps, Jane and Georgiana enjoyed many strolls through the beautiful gardens that were awakening with the spring, sharing confidences of the type that sisters have with Georgiana proudly showing Jane what additions Elizabeth had initiated to some of the garden beds nearer the house to carry on the tradition of the mistress of Pemberley.

When the Blakely estate was deemed ready for its new owners, all the servants seemed saddened with the Bingleys’ imminent departure. Several of them went to Mrs. Reynolds to ask if for the time being they could continue to attend the Bingleys until he had established his own household staff. Enough of the servants had made requests that the housekeeper thought Darcy should be informed of it to decide what was to be done. Darcy was sorry to see some go, but willingly allowed those who wished to be of service to the Bingleys to do so without reproach. Darcy was very much surprised, however, when Mrs. Reynolds told him that Betty, Elizabeth’s maid who had first accompanied her from Longbourn had asked to speak to him about the situation.

Surely she would not also wish to depart Elizabeth’s service?

“Sir, if you please,” Betty squeaked shyly as she entered his study upon Darcy’s summons. She curtseyed quickly and held her head down.

“Mrs. Reynolds informs me that you wished to talk to me, Betty. What is it you wish to tell me?”

“Well, sir, as you know there are several of the servants who wish to be of aid to Miss Jane…Mrs. Bingley until they acquire additional house maids and men servants to fill their needs.”

“Both Mrs. Darcy and I will be sorry to see you go, Betty. Your mistress has relied on you since before her wedding-”

“Oh, no, Master, I have no wish to leave Pemberley…unless you are unhappy with my service. I will try to do better, sir.”

“No, no, we are more than satisfied with your work. I thought that perhaps you had likewise decided to go into Mrs. Bingley’s service.”

Betty sighed with relief at the master’s reassuring words. “Sir, I just wanted to tell you of my intent to remain in your service, though I am happy to see Miss Jane…Mrs. Bingley once more. She was always so kind to me at Longbourn. When I first came to Pemberley with the mistress and to your household, I had never been beyond Meryton, sir, and had no other familiar face until now to make me think of that home again.”

“Do you now have a desire to visit Longbourn?”

“No, sir, not without you and the mistress, and though I would be happy to be in company with all the servants at Longbourn, it is no longer my home. I would only go there if I could return to Pemberley with you and Mrs. Darcy.” A wistful expression appeared on the young maid’s face as she confessed, “There is something about this place. I have no desire to live anywhere else.” She viewed her master’s smiling face and blushed. “Do you understand how I could feel this way, sir?”

“Yes, I understand completely, Betty, and I am pleased that you choose to remain in our service.”

“Thank you, sir. I just wanted to let you know.”

“I am sure the mistress will be relieved to know of it.” He stood up, towering over her small frame, but she had grown not to fear him as when she had first met him due to his always being kind to her. “Carry on, then.”

Betty curtseyed and left the study to a relieved Darcy.

When he wondered how many of the other servants might yet wish to depart Pemberley for Blakely perhaps for some duration, he decided to ask Bingley if he could see about the hiring of more servants for the Bingleys until Blakely was completely staffed.

Lambton always has good people in need of employment. If Charles agrees I will have word sent round discreetly.

He called for a servant to have Mrs. Reynolds beckoned.

Continued in Next Section