Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Chapter 8
"You have a visitor."
Lieutenant Wickham looked up to see Miss Bennet ushered into the room. His surprise was great but a welcoming smile graced his lips. "I hardly expected such an honour," he said, rising from his chair and bowing politely. "Please, sit down. I must say it is good to see a friendly face."
Elizabeth studied him closely. "I trust that you are well?"
"Oh, yes. Do not fear for me on that account." He looked away briefly then returned his gaze to her face, as if measuring her response before he spoke. "It grieves me that you should be placed in the position of visiting me under such circumstances."
"Believe me, Mr. Wickham," Elizabeth said, removing her gloves as she took the offered chair. "I could not forgive myself if I did not see you." She looked to the guard just inside the doorway. "May we please have a little more privacy? Perhaps you could wait outside?"
The soldier appeared startled at the request but moved a more discreet distance from the couple, just outside the open door. Wickham turned an enquiring eye on her.
"You may well wonder at my boldness in coming here but I assure you that I petitioned Colonel Forster's permission and am here with his full knowledge. You can imagine how shocked I was to hear of your situation upon my return home today." Elizabeth lowered her voice slightly. "Mr. Wickham, what happened was entirely my fault and I must apologise."
The young officer was unprepared for this statement. "Apologise? Your fault? How can that be?"
"Firstly, I must explain that I have spent the last few weeks in Kent and that, as chance would have it, so has Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam." Elizabeth bowed her head, ashamed to meet his eyes as she admitted her failing. "A few nights ago Mr. Darcy and I had a terrible argument and I'm afraid I spoke too frankly on the subject of how he had cruelly treated you."
"He was very angry?" Wickham stifled his amusement at the thought of Darcy getting a dressing down by this young woman of no consequence.
Elizabeth looked up with wide eyes. "Livid! If I hadn't been so angry myself I might have had more sense but, alas, I continued and am sure that is what goaded him into riding here to seek you out."
A puzzled frown formed on Wickham's face. "I don't completely understand, Miss Bennet. I'm sure Darcy has heard others' opinions on his actions many times over the years and has paid them no heed. Do not trouble yourself that your words have had any more effect."
"Oh, dear. It is a little more complex than that," Elizabeth said, biting her lip. "My defence of you gave him the impression that there was... that I had a tendre for you, I think. I believe that sparked some jealousy."
"Jealousy?" He blinked in surprise. "Oh. Oh! Has Darcy developed a tendre for you, then?" Wickham's mind raced. So, you are the young woman whose reputation he thought he was saving! "Yes, that would certainly grate on his pride to think that the woman he has designs on favours someone else."
"What do you mean by designs?" Elizabeth was taken aback.
"Forgive me," said Wickham placatingly. "I should not have used such language. It's just that I'm not sure how to phrase it politely."
"You need not sugar coat the truth for me, Mr. Wickham. We are both adults. Please say what you mean." Elizabeth suddenly felt wary of his next words.
Mr. Wickham spoke smoothly and in a low voice that did not carry to the waiting guard. "You are a lovely woman, Miss Bennet. Men such as Darcy, rich and powerful, are used to getting their own way. I hope I need not be more explicit."
Her posture now reflected the alteration in Elizabeth's mood. Sitting upright, she drew her hands onto her lap and said in a clipped voice, "That will not be necessary."
"I'm sorry," he said. "Perhaps I should not have been so blunt but I would not like to see you deceived into believing Darcy's intentions to be more noble. Whether or not he chooses to marry his cousin he will not look for a wife beyond his own class. That is a certainty."
"Trust me, Mr. Wickham," replied Elizabeth with tight lipped control. "I know exactly what Mr. Darcy's intentions were."
Feeling a sense of satisfaction, that he had surprisingly hit upon the truth of it, Wickham reached out for Elizabeth's hand but then pulled back as if suddenly reminded of the indelicacy of such an action. "I am truly sorry that you have been treated in such a manner, Miss Bennet. Had I known of this outrage -."
"You would have hit him harder?"
Wickham smiled. "Something like that."
Elizabeth rose and began to put on her gloves. "I must thank you, sir, before I leave."
"Thank me?"
"Yes." She stood tall and straight, chin raised slightly. "You have helped me see things in a clearer light."
His eyebrows rose slightly. "Anytime I can be of service, Miss Bennet." He took her hand and this time bowed low over it, touching his lips to the back. Releasing it, Wickham thanked her for relieving the boredom of his day with her visit and bid her goodbye.
Elizabeth resisted the urge to wipe her hand on her skirts until she was out of sight of the guard who remained stationed outside the door. If she had thought she was angry on the walk from Longbourn it was nothing compared to the ire she now felt following the interview with Mr. Wickham.
How could he imply such a thing! she silently fumed. Not even Mr. Darcy would dare to make such an offer to my face! I cannot believe Mr. Wickham suggested it. Her confusion was stronger than ever. Having been firmly convinced of the dishonourable nature of Darcy's character it was difficult to adjust her thinking and place him in a more favourable light. The words of his proposal echoed in her head.
You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you
These sentiments were not flippantly expressed. He loved her, admired her! When Elizabeth compared those words, not so elegantly phrased as they could have been, to Mr. Wickham's polished manners the latter gentleman's effort rang hollow and insincere.
It is my fervent hope that the steadfastness of my attachment may be rewarded by the acceptance of my hand in marriage.
No carte blanche had been offered. Mr. Darcy had clearly and honourably proposed a legal union of marriage. This was contrary to Mr. Wickham's confidently expressed assertions. She began to wonder what else he had told her that bore closer examination.
Such was the tumult of emotion that accompanied this examination of her thoughts that the tears slowly and freely streamed down Elizabeth's face. It was in this state that she failed to hear her name called and nearly ran into Colonel Fitzwilliam's figure before he grasped her shoulders to prevent a fall.
"Miss Bennet! Come and sit down. What has caused you such distress?"
Elizabeth shook her head. "No, no. I would much rather walk. I do not want to stay here." She gestured around her at the encampment.
"Of course," he hurriedly agreed, understanding her need to retreat from such public exposure in this state. Taking her elbow, he guided her along the quickest route to exit the camp.
"I am so sorry," she began when they entered a quiet path which would take them back toward Meryton. "I did not mean to take you from your duties."
"That is of no consequence under the circumstances, Miss Bennet. However, I am very surprised to see you here! I believed you to be spending another week at least with your friend in Kent." He was relieved to see the tears on her face had begun to dry.
"My plans changed suddenly," was all Elizabeth could say in explanation. Although she had known of his presence here the situation was awkward at best and she could think of nothing that would not sound contrived..
"Miss Bennet?" The Colonel was looking at her with evident concern. "I am afraid to ask if you have been to see Lieutenant Wickham and if that is the reason for your agitation."
She glanced sharply at him. "I have seen him."
Fitzwilliam's expression grew troubled. "I beg you would not believe a word that man says. He is not to be trusted."
"He might say the same of you."
"He would say the same of me!" he exclaimed. "Particularly now, when I am responsible for having him confined and would like to make it a permanent arrangement."
Struggling to comprehend the bitterness which seemed to emphasise his words, Elizabeth stopped walking to face him. "I do not understand the intensity of your dislike. You may tell me it is none of my business but -."
"No, it does concern you," Fitzwilliam interrupted. "When Darcy left Rosings so abruptly he wrote me a short note apprising me of his plans. His intention was to speak with Colonel Forster and expose Wickham for his true colours. I had no more idea of why he would suddenly feel the need to see Wickham brought to justice but later came to the conclusion that there was a lady whom Darcy felt was in danger. I am afraid it was you he was concerned would become the next innocent victim of Wickham's schemes."
"Schemes?" Elizabeth's pulse quickened. "Let me assure you, Colonel, that there has never been anything more than a friendly acquaintance between us. Nor did I encourage anything more."
"Yet you came to visit Wickham today and this situation has clearly upset you." He shook his head. "No, Miss Bennet. I'm afraid I must agree with my cousin. Whether Wickham's intentions involved you or some other lady I am thankful that the truth will finally be out and all ladies will be safe from him."
"You make him sound like a ... a..."
"Lothario? I will not mince words, Miss Bennet," he said in a hardened tone when he saw her flinch. "The man had opportunities rarely bestowed on one of his connections but saw fit to waste them. Darcy owes him nothing."
She turned away and began walking down the path once more. Fitzwilliam followed behind, knowing that he had perhaps said too much. Elizabeth was deep in thought, however. Her conversation with Mr. Wickham had left her angry and confused but this encounter with Mr. Darcy's cousin had only added to it. Although she knew that Mr. Wickham was wrong about Mr. Darcy's intentions she could not say the same for the accusations against the lieutenant's honour. She needed time to think, to sort out everything she thought she knew about both men. Before she could do that, though, there was something she had to know.
"Is your cousin... is Mr. Darcy alright?" She felt strangely guilty enquiring after him, as if she had no right to know after soundly rejecting his proposal.
"He is going to be fine," Fitzwilliam nodded.
Elizabeth felt the tension flow from her body. "Thank goodness," she quietly murmured.
The Colonel studied her closely. Was she asking for Wickham's benefit or out of concern for Darcy himself? "My words were a little stronger." He held her gaze for a moment. "His sister would have been utterly devastated."
"Oh, yes," Elizabeth softly replied. "There are just the two of them. They must be very close." Her feelings of guilt were becoming stronger.
"He dotes on her; spoils her as a parent would, I suppose. Not in a negative way, though. Georgiana is too good natured to become truly spoiled." Lost in thought, Fitzwilliam grew silent.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam," Elizabeth suddenly said, her voice unsteady. "Thank you for your escort from the camp but please don't let me keep you from your business any longer."
He recognised a dismissal when he heard it and could only hope that she had truly listened to what he'd had to say. "I am glad you are feeling better, then. I am staying at Netherfield with Darcy and Bingley. If you have any further questions, Miss Bennet, please feel free to send a note and I will reply immediately or in person."
"Thank you."
He started to move off, then said over his shoulder, "I shall tell Darcy you enquired after him."
Elizabeth opened her mouth to speak, to entreat him to do no such thing, but realised it would involve some explanations she was not prepared to undertake. Then he was gone and she was left alone to consider all that she had learned.
***
Colonel Forster greeted his counterpart with a hearty clap on the shoulder. "By God you were right, Fitzwilliam. There was a lady in Wickham's sights! Not only that but I've had four local tradesmen to see me, two last night and two this morning, claiming unpaid bills for items purchased on credit. Since the gossip about the lieutenant's confinement has made it through the town I daresay there will be more of them lining up at my door today to make their claims." He held up a sheaf of papers. "This lot alone couldn't have been paid on the wages he'd earn before we were to leave for Brighton."
Fitzwilliam spared only a glance at the papers. "Are you sure about the young lady?" He was reticent to mention Miss Bennet's name because of her insistence that there was no attachment on her side.
"Yes, yes," Forster nodded. "Miss King. She recently came into a tidy inheritance and Wickham has been closely attending her at social gatherings. Her uncle got wind of his interest and came down from Liverpool to remove her from Meryton."
"Miss King?" said Fitzwilliam with raised eyebrows. "No doubt Wickham was displeased with this complication."
Forster scowled. "I don't see many options before us. I shall call in the local magistrate to deal with the assault on Mr. Darcy. I will also speak with Wickham about the money he owes."
"Prison either way. It suits me."
"Well, neither one suits me as I'm sure you can understand." Throwing the bills on his desk, Forster sat heavily in his chair.
Fitzwilliam sympathised with him. No commanding officer enjoyed this aspect of his duties. "I am sorry you are forced to contend with this."
"Oh, don't worry about me. It was bound to happen sooner or later it seems. I don't like to consider the size of the debts if this had gone on much longer." He picked up a piece of blank paper and reached for the pen. "I'll write the magistrate immediately and hopefully he'll be able to see me tomorrow. If we can get this over with as quickly as possible I should be very grateful."
There was complete agreement from Fitzwilliam. Having accomplished his business with Colonel Forster, he took his leave and headed back to Netherfield. The house was quiet when he entered; Bingley was still at Longbourn. The Colonel first went to his room and then to see Darcy once more. This time he hoped for more of a visit and less of an interrogation.
Darcy was just finishing up a lunch of clear broth. Surprisingly, he was seated by the fire, propped up with pillows in the large chair. He looked up and smiled when he saw his cousin enter the room. "You just can't stay away, I see."
"You just can't stay bedridden," Fitzwilliam returned. "I'm happy to see you up, though."
"I would much rather have been sitting by the window but Mrs. MacLean was adamant."
"Good for her. If ever there a man accustomed to having his own way it is you, Darcy. It's about time someone told you 'no'," Fitzwilliam laughed.
Darcy didn't find as much humour in the comment. "Tell me how it went with Colonel Forster. What have you decided?"
Fitzwilliam picked up a plain biscuit from the tray in front of his cousin. "Forster will meet with the magistrate and apprise him of the situation. Wickham will be charged with assaulting you. Stupid of him to draw his sword. It won't help his case in the least. Anyway, you need not worry about a thing."
If only it were that simple. Darcy wanted nothing more than to forget about the last week and all that had happened. To be confined at Netherfield, a mere three miles from Elizabeth Bennet's home, was torture indeed. The only comfort was in knowing she was 50 miles away in Kent and he would not have to face her. "Lady Catherine was not pleased with my hasty departure, I imagine."
"I'll forgive you that comment and attribute it to the recent rearrangement of the contents of your skull. No, she was not pleased. She was even less pleased with my decision to immediately follow you." Fitzwilliam laughed again. "I'd nearly forgotten! She was certain you had a mistress who called you away from your family obligations. Mark my words!" he said in an impressive imitation of their aunt. "I will discover the truth!"
"I'm sorry to have left it to you to explain, then. How many have I now?"
The Colonel grinned. "To tell you the truth, I was too worried about what trouble you'd get into to take advantage of Lady Catherine's cantankerous mood. She wasn't particularly satisfied with my blunt assurance of her mistaken notion, however. Accused me of being vulgar!"
Darcy snorted. "You must have forgotten yourself."
"Oh, speaking of forgetting," his cousin said. "You forgot a couple of things at Rosings when you left." He tossed Darcy's ring across the space between them. "Your man handed this to me before I made my own escape."
"Yes, I realised too late that I'd neglected to retrieve it from the desk." Darcy slipped it onto his finger.
"And this," Fitzwilliam said, throwing the sealed letter toward him. "Sorry if it's a bit worse for wear. Travelling in my pocket wasn't the healthiest of settings for this paper." Darcy was silent, studying the letter as his fingers ran over the worn edges. "Your man didn't know what was to be done with it as you'd written no direction on the outside."
"It isn't finished," said Darcy with a sigh. "I was in the middle of writing it when I chose to ...." He took a deep breath and looked at Fitzwilliam. "Thank you. I suppose my afternoon is now decided. What are you going to do?"
"I'm off to London in another hour. I will seek some legal counsel for you and I also want to check on Georgiana. I've not written her about your injury but if I don't see her today I'm sure she'll hear something now that the gossip has begun. I'd rather be the one to tell her and set her mind at ease about your condition. I should be back the day after tomorrow."
Darcy's spirits lifted a little at the mention of his sister. "Please see me before you go. I'll write a letter for you to take to her. She will feel better seeing a note from my own hand."
"Very well. Now I need to order the carriage and have something to eat before I go." He was almost out the door when he stopped and turned back to Darcy. "Oh, I met Miss Bennet while I was out. She asked after you."
"Bingley certainly wasted no time in renewing his acquaintance there," Darcy said with a wry smile. "What did you think of the young lady?"
Confused for a moment, Fitzwilliam suddenly realised his cousin's mistake. "No, I'm sorry. I should have said it was Miss Elizabeth Bennet I met. I was surprised to see her, too. She had returned early from Kent. But I mustn't stand here talking when I have preparations to make. I shall return in a half hour or so, Darcy, so you'd best get to that note you want to send to Georgiana."
Darcy sat staring at the empty doorway while he turned over the Colonel's remarks. "She asked after me?" he wondered aloud. "Why would she care about the last man in the world she could ever be prevailed upon to marry!" His voice was filled with bitterness and despair. Then he looked down at the letter still in his hand. He thought of his friend's excitement with his return to Netherfield and the anticipated revival of a courtship with Miss Jane Bennet. The exact contents of the letter Darcy could not recall but he sensed the explanations he had provided were an inadequate defence against the charges. Indeed, he now wondered if there really was any defence!
Reluctantly he set the letter aside to pen his note to Georgiana first. It crossed his mind to ask Fitzwilliam to bring him some brandy for the afternoon was sure to be a long one.
Chapter 9
"Lizzy?" Mrs. Gardiner paused on the stair when she heard the front door open. "Lizzy, is that you?"
"Yes, aunt." Elizabeth removed her bonnet and placed it on the hall table while her aunt descended the stairs to the front hall.
"I am sorry I was unable to extricate myself from everyone else's company earlier. You appear to be less troubled now. Did your walk in the fresh air help to clear your head?" she asked, sincerely concerned.
"I went to see Mr. Wickham."
"You did what?" Mrs. Gardiner spoke in a hushed voice. "Was that wise?"
"I went to see Mr. Wickham and I do need to speak with you about it but not here." Retrieving her bonnet from the tabletop Elizabeth asked, "Would you mind very much if we walked in the garden?"
Mrs. Gardiner pulled a shawl over her shoulders and the two walked out together, putting as much distance as possible between themselves and the house before Elizabeth once again spoke.
"I am sorry I did not wait to hear your advice before I left but my mind was all a jumble. Only one thing could satisfy me and that was to show Mr. Wickham my support and that I, at least, believed in his innocence."
Her aunt sighed. "Oh, Lizzy. Pray tell me that you haven't done something foolish."
"No. I don't know. Oh, I'm just not sure of anything anymore!" In frustration Elizabeth picked some new leaves from a low hanging branch and began to methodically tear them along the centre veins. "I had expected to find Mr. Wickham depressed, anxious, even frightened considering the charges he is facing. He was none of those. I did not see any difference in his demeanour since the last time I'd met him before I left for Kent."
"Are you sure he wasn't simply putting on a brave face for your benefit?""
Elizabeth shook her head. "If you had heard the things he said!" She closed her eyes. "I think I've made a terrible mistake."
"Surely it cannot be as bad as that. What mistake could you mean?" Mrs. Gardiner took hold of Elizabeth's hands, preventing her shredding of the leaves. "What did Mr. Wickham say?"
Hanging her head, Elizabeth felt her face colour with shame. "He said that Mr. Darcy's intentions were dishonourable, that he only wanted me as a ... mistress."
"Lizzy!" her aunt spoke sharply. "That is a patent lie!"
"Yes, I know it is. Ever since that night I have heard the words of Mr. Darcy's proposal repeated over and over in my head. Why did I refuse him? How could I respect or even like a man who could be so cold and unfeeling, who would cast aside a childhood friend, leaving him penniless and without prospects? And then there is Jane and Mr. Bingley."
Startled, Mrs. Gardiner asked, "What have they to do with Mr. Darcy?"
"No, I did not tell you that part. How could I with Jane present? I couldn't hurt her more by telling her that it was Mr. Darcy who ensured that his friend would never return to Netherfield, to Jane. He admitted doing everything he could to separate them and displayed no remorse for his actions." She brought her chin up, determination once again giving her strength. "That is why I could not accept him."
"Then where is your mistake?" softly asked her aunt.
"My accusations with regard to Mr. Wickham. How much can I trust is the truth, if any? I charged Mr. Darcy with some horrible things and now I cannot even be sure myself if they are based in fact. I believed Mr. Wickham to be sincere with no proof other than his charming and attentive manners." Elizabeth dropped her hands to her sides. "I behaved so carelessly."
Mrs. Gardiner wrapped an arm about the young woman's shoulders and led her slowly along the walk. "You were not the only one taken in by this young man, Lizzy. Do not be so hard on yourself. I must say I am disappointed to hear about Mr. Darcy's involvement in his friend's affairs, though. What possible explanation could he provide for that?"
"He gave me none specifically but I would venture to say it would be the same that he presented in his proposal; my family is objectionable, our connections are without merit and fortune non-existent."
Smiling, Mrs. Gardiner said, "He mustn't think them too bad else he wouldn't have made you an offer at all."
"Oh, he struggled!" exclaimed Elizabeth. "In vain. It wasn't love that led him to propose. It was lack of control." Immediately she frowned, annoyed with herself. "No, his feelings were true. Had he been as morally bankrupt as I had imagined then he would indeed have suggested something sordid."
"Lizzy, would you have accepted him had you not already been influenced by Mr. Wickham?"
Elizabeth exhaled slowly and thoughtfully. "If you had asked me that question last night I would have said no. Today I'm not sure. I can no longer trust my own opinions and even if I discard everything Mr. Wickham said and how it influenced my view of Mr. Darcy's character I would still have my initial impression of him. That was hardly complimentary. The question of Jane and Mr. Bingley remains."
"But Mr. Bingley has returned and by all indications that should end happily indeed," pointed out Mrs. Gardiner.
"Ironically, I'd say!" Elizabeth laughed bitterly. "That Mr. Darcy should be the means of reuniting them, unintentionally, after purposefully dividing them seems like divine justice."
"Lizzy, I know you feel resentment on Jane's behalf but at the end of the day who is hurting?" Her aunt inclined her head toward the far side of the lawn where two figures stood admiring one another. "Your sister and Mr. Bingley seem to have overcome any opposition despite the efforts against them. I would hate to think that you would be so obstinate in the face of their forgiveness."
"I'm sure Jane knows nothing about Mr. Darcy's involvement in her misery."
"And if she did? Are you telling me that our dear Jane would be so angry and resentful as you are?" She nodded at Elizabeth's silence. "I don't expect you to be like Jane, so easily forgiving everyone of their transgressions, but please think further on the real motivation for your anger with Mr. Darcy. I can accept that you are unable to forgive him if it is for the right reasons."
"That's what puzzles me, Aunt. What are the right reasons?"
***
Across the lawn a young couple was oblivious to anyone else in the garden. Jane was nervous but her happiness was unmistakable. She had taken her sister's encouragement to heart and now her hopes were buoyed with each minute she spent with Mr. Bingley.
The gentleman was no less affected. Upon first beholding Jane when he entered Longbourn's parlour he had wondered how she had grown more beautiful in the intervening time since he had left Hertfordshire. Conversation was a necessary evil; he preferred to simply admire her in silence. Someone had finally suggested a walk about the grounds and Mary reluctantly agreed to accompany them. She was soon left behind on a seat in a quiet corner where she could read her book undisturbed. Jane and Mr. Bingley continued on until Mary was lost to sight and the house obscured by the tall shrubbery. Here they paused and Mr. Bingley tentatively began his apology.
"I cannot think how I came to be so foolish, staying in London all this time. Had I known you were also in town I should have called!"
Jane, unwilling to criticise his sisters, did not inform him that she had called more than once at his house. "Thank you. You would have been most welcome at my uncle's home."
They smiled at each other for another few minutes.
"Miss Bennet," ventured Bingley at last. "Would you like to come to tea at Netherfield tomorrow?"
She looked at him with surprise. "Has Miss Bingley returned., too?"
He rolled his eyes upward. "But of course! How stupid of me to forget! I must write her immediately so that you may come for tea."
Even Jane could not stop herself from gently laughing at his enthusiasm. "Surely there can be no need to rush her. You will be staying for a while, won't you?"
"Yes," he replied without hesitation. "I have no intention of leaving again." Blushing, he added, "I mean... I would like you and your family to be my guests at Netherfield but I cannot do that until my sister comes to serve as hostess. I will write her as soon as I can." Bingley took a deep breath. "Miss Bennet, would you have any objection to my calling on you more regularly?"
Jane's reply was shyly spoken through her smile. "None at all, sir."
"Excellent!" A moment later Bingley said, "Your parents would have no objections, would they?"
This time she couldn't help laughing aloud. It was a sweet, delicate sound to his ears. "I suppose that was a foolish question," he grinned. Taking one of her hands he wrapped her arm in his and began to walk toward the house once more. "It is becoming cool now."
"Yes," agreed Jane a little self-consciously. "Mama will be expecting us back for tea."
Despite this agreement on the need to return, the young couple managed to spend another ten minutes together before reaching the front doors. Most of the family had reassembled in the parlour, Mrs. Bennet having sent a servant to fetch the stragglers. Jane and Mr. Bingley she would not have dreamt of disturbing, however. Tea would have waited to be served no matter how long they had chosen to remain out of doors. Now that they had returned, however, there would be no delay. For Mr. Bennet this was welcome news. His wife's sense of propriety didn't match his own and he had no intention of twiddling his thumbs while the young people strolled out of doors, heedless of the time, but neither was he in the mood to listen to Mrs. Bennet's agitations if he ignored her wishes. Once appetites were appeased and conversation was underway his desire for entertainment was aroused once more.
"Tell me Mr. Bingley," said Mr. Bennet in an unusual show of curiosity. "How does your friend today? Has he been able to tell you what befell him?" His wife was quite put out by this turn in conversation. Mr. Darcy held no interest for her and so her annoyance increased when Mr. Bingley was forced to turn away from Jane to answer the question.
"He is much better today, thank you. I leave the details to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, to discover. My concern is for Darcy's recovery and I'm happy to say that his memory remains intact," Bingley replied with a smile. "And his sense of humour, as well."
"That is good news," Mr. Bennet drily returned.
"I beg your pardon," Jane quietly interjected. "Mr. Darcy has met with an accident?" This information was new to her. Elizabeth had wished to spare her any distress, Mrs. Bennet had spirited her away as soon as the sisters returned from London and since then her time and attention had been for Mr. Bingley alone. Knowing that Mr. Darcy had so recently been in Kent with her sister this information came as a great shock.
Bingley hastened to explain . "Yes, he suffered a nasty blow to the head. I will spare you ladies the unpleasant details but by the time Colonel Fitzwilliam had found him Darcy must have been lying unconscious for many hours."
"How dreadful!" cried Jane.
"Indeed it was! I shudder to think what would have happened had Fitzwilliam not found him in time."
Jane gasped. "Surely you don't think he could have.... died?" At Bingley's solemn nod she sighed unsteadily.
"Well, there is no need to dwell on what didn't happen," Mr. Bennet suggested. "And as you say, Colonel Fitzwilliam will have everything well in hand from here on out."
"I know what happened," Lydia sulked.
"Don't believe everything you hear." Elizabeth's voice was sharper than usual. She had no desire to listen to her youngest sister's romantic notions of Wickham as a man wronged.
"That is wise advice Lizzy," nodded Mrs. Gardiner. Her aunt's words only served to further sting Elizabeth's conscience.
"Oh, this talk is all too distressing!" fluttered Mrs. Bennet. "We must have lighter conversation, I think. Mr. Bingley, more cake?"
Lydia was disappointed once again as all discussion of Mr. Darcy was put to rest. No effort on her part to bring Mr. Wickham's name into conversation was acknowledged, either. Even Mr. Bennet ignored that subject in favour of observing the smitten Bingley interact with the Bennet ladies. He exchanged an amused look with Mr. Gardiner who was equally attentive on his niece's behalf. Mrs. Gardiner was delighted to see the gentleman's interest was genuine. She was convinced that an engagement would soon occur if the young couple was left to progress without interference.
Elizabeth was gratified to see her sister so happily occupied. It gave her the chance to partake of some well needed examination of her own thoughts and feelings where Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham were concerned. The talk with her aunt had supplied her with many questions though the answers did not promise to be simple.
***
"Mr. Darcy, you shouldn't be standing near that draughty window!" Mrs. MacLean bustled across the room, looking as if she would take her charge by the ear and send him back to bed. She stopped only a few feet away from him and took up an authoritative pose, hands on hips.
Darcy was in no humour to tolerate her notions of authority but he knew that without his compliance there would be no peace for him. To ensure her more expedient exit he obediently returned to his bed, suffered the arrangement of the blankets and finally breathed a sigh of relief as Mrs. MacLean departed under the impression that her patient would sleep for an hour or two.
As soon as the door closed Darcy threw back the bedclothes and resumed his station at the window. Gazing across the landscape he could imagine what might be taking place at Longbourn. He knew that Bingley had spent several hours there already and envied him not only the freedom to come and go as he pleased but the satisfaction of knowing he was welcome. In all probability Bingley was happily escorting Miss Bennet on a walk into Meryton or, if he was fortunate, a more private excursion around Longbourn's grounds. With a slowly exhaled breath Darcy imagined Elizabeth as their discreet companion. Had it really been only a few days since he had, himself, accompanied Elizabeth on her walks at Rosings?
A wave of disappointment washed over him and his head lowered, eyes closed. Darcy's fingers tightened convulsively on the paper he held in one hand. He was thankful for one thing only at this moment; the letter had never been seen by Miss Elizabeth Bennet's eyes. He had read it four times at least in the two hours since Colonel Fitzwilliam had departed for London. The first reading had renewed his feelings of bitterness in the wake of her rejection but when the intensity of raw emotion began to recede he read his words again with an eye to determining how the lady would receive them.
The manner of her rejection could not be forgotten. The words ungentlemanlike behaviour rang in his ears long after he'd left the Parsonage. It was not until this afternoon as he contemplated his friend's good fortune that Darcy began to examine his own attempt at wooing.
Unaccustomed as he was to having to exert any effort in attracting the fairer sex, Darcy realised he had become complacent regarding the acceptance of his attentions. He had simply expected Elizabeth to welcome them. Ironically the very qualities in her that he most admired, her independence and intelligence, were his downfall. What other woman would cast aside the prospect of considerable fortune and position on principle? He could hardly fault her those principles for they coincided with his own in many ways. Yet he had seriously erred in the performance of his courtship. In the heat of her rejection he had scornfully suggested that flattery was what she found acceptable and would have eagerly embraced his offer had he employed such an approach.
His honest opinion was that Elizabeth Bennet was one of the most handsome women he had ever met. His lips would never have uttered those words, however. Beauty was secondary to her wit and it was upon that which he had relied when he proposed. Applying directly to her pragmatic sense he had put aside the superficial to dwell on the very real obstacles that would face a match such as theirs. It was eye opening, to say the least, to learn of Elizabeth's opinions of him. It came as no surprise that Wickham had been spreading his maliciousness but that she, this young lady that Darcy so admired and respected, should have formed an ill opinion of him even before Wickham's poison had been delivered was a devastating blow!
Darcy could think of no reason for her feelings to be so severe until he'd had time to reflect on all that had transpired since first making Elizabeth's acquaintance. At first it did not seem possible that she had not recognised the compliments and attentions he had bestowed upon her. In the wake of that night at Hunsford, however, it was painfully clear that his efforts had fallen far short of what any lady would expect. Despite Elizabeth's superiority to any other she was still a lady and that alone should have encouraged more effort from him.
Comparison was inevitable and to whom else would he compare himself but to Bingley. As disparate as their characters were, Bingley's example was before him and Darcy made use of knowing his friend's methods in order to determine where his own lapse lay. He was not Bingley but neither was Elizabeth her sister. Darcy was forced to admit that his efforts paled even when compared to Bingley's general friendliness toward the ladies.
This was a less comforting thought than it could have been had he realised his error prior to declaring himself. How could he have been so mistaken in Elizabeth's feelings? Like a slap in the face Darcy knew that he had been equally in error with regard to Jane Bennet. He was now intimately acquainted with the pain Bingley had felt upon being told that the lady he loved did not return his sentiments. Bingley's suffering had been unwarranted, however, and Darcy felt himself to have betrayed his friend; a betrayal no excuse could justify. There was a measure of satisfaction in knowing that Bingley's situation was not hopeless. As for his own....
Darcy uncurled the letter, his eyes resting on the opening remark. It was entirely unacceptable, the letter and its contents. Once more he was grateful for the circumstances that had prevented him from finishing it and placing it in the lady's hand.
There was only one fate for such a document. Darcy touched a corner of the paper to the candle burning on the table and tilted it to allow the flame to travel along the edge. Then he carefully placed it in the low fire that burned in the hearth and watched until the ashes were indistinguishable in the grate.
Chapter 10
"Do you think she'll let you out?" Bingley gestured toward Mrs. MacLean with a wink. "It would be nice if you could join me downstairs for supper, at least."
Darcy wasn't hopeful but he was tired of being confined and determined to accompany his friend no matter how Mrs. MacLean felt about it. "If you'll be so good as to find me something decent to wear I shall brave her disapproval," he said.
Bingley clapped his hands together, leaving to find his manservant and arrange for him to attend to Darcy. Upon seeing the servant enter from the dressing room the nurse became indignant, letting her patient know in no uncertain terms what was her opinion on him leaving his sickroom so soon. Darcy ignored her and when the door to the dressing room closed behind him the sound of her voice stopped.
The clothing did not fit particularly well but it would do and Darcy knew that Fitzwilliam would inform his man to come to Netherfield right away. When he stepped out into the hallway he discovered that he was still a bit unsteady on his feet and requested the assistance of the servant's arm to get him to his destination. He found Bingley in the study, putting pen to paper rather energetically.
"I hope I'm not disturbing you but this is as far as I'm going until we move to the dining room," Darcy said as he sank slowly and carefully into a chair.
"No, not at all," assured Bingley. "I'm writing my sister, asking her to come at once."
Startled at this development Darcy's response was more abrupt than usual. "Why on earth would you do that?"
"I need a hostess so that I can invite the Bennets to Netherfield for dinner or tea or... Well, you know."
"Hmm, yes." Darcy rubbed his chin. "But your sisters? You know their opinions of the Bennets. Have you no other lady you could call upon? An aunt perhaps."
"No, I haven't any aunts. You know that." The reminder of his sisters' dislike of the neighbourhood gave Bingley pause.
"Surely they will not stand on ceremony in this part of the country." Darcy frowned at his own choice of words. "We aren't in Town, after all. There cannot be too strong an objection to a single gentleman entertaining a small party at his home. Your housekeeper should be able to make the necessary arrangements without any trouble."
Bingley turned around to stare at Darcy. "Are my ears deceiving me? Are you, Darcy, actually suggesting that I play host to a mixed party without a lady in my house?"
Impatience lent a touch of irritation to his friend's reply. "Well then, invite only the gentlemen or write your sister but choose one or the other!"
"I think you were confined too long, Darcy," laughed Bingley. "Even you must prefer the company of the ladies to that of their elder male relatives. Yes, Wilkins?" he said as the footman quietly stepped through the doorway to announce that the meal was ready for serving. "We shall be there momentarily."
Darcy waved off any assistance, choosing to vent his frustrations by exerting his energy in persuading his body to cooperate with his directions. It was a relief to at last settle into one of the dining room chairs and be waited on. Few of the selections appealed to his still sensitive stomach but it was far better than the plain fare Mrs. MacLean insisted on inflicting upon him.
"I have been to see Miss Bennet," Bingley said.
Darcy did not react. "Yes, I know." He had spent a great deal of time ruminating on this very subject.
"She is as lovely as I remember."
"This does not surprise me." He waited.
Bingley put down his fork and looked directly at Darcy. "I think you were mistaken last year."
"Is that so?"
"Yes," replied Bingley in a determined voice. "I'm not sure why you thought Miss Bennet was indifferent to me but after my visit today I can assure you that her feelings are quite sincere."
Placing his own fork carefully on the table, Darcy met his friend's gaze. "I was not mistaken," he quietly said. "I was wrong. I was wrong about Miss Bennet's feelings and I was wrong to interfere at all."
Bingley frowned as he silently considered what had occurred the previous year. "I don't see what you mean by interfering. You are my friend. I can hardly hold it against you for acting the part. I would do the same if I thought you'd listen to anyone else's opinions." He laughed. "Not that you would ever ask but feel free to solicit my advice if you have any questions."
"Bingley, you miss the point."
"Oh? What might the point be?" Bingley settled back in his chair and looked across the space between them. "You did not recognise Miss Bennet's feelings as genuine and sought to spare me from making a terrible mistake, knowing that I despise the thought of a marriage of convenience. I cannot blame you for that! If your objections had been only the first you had raised, lack of fortune, Mrs. Bennet and some less worldly relations, then it would not have deterred me as I'm sure you well know. Those things may stop you from pursuing an otherwise worthy lady's hand but not me. As long as Jane loves me then I shall be happy. Ecstatically so!"
"A very pretty speech," replied Darcy. "You will be rewarded in your wish, I'm sure. I thank you for your understanding but please allow me the luxury of self-condemnation for my role in your misery this past winter."
"If you insist." Bingley resumed eating.
After a moment Darcy continued. "How was your afternoon with Miss Bennet, anyway?" He dared not ask directly about Elizabeth but hoped that his friend would mention her.
A dazed look came over Bingley's face. "We had a lovely walk in Longbourn's gardens. Fortunately it wasn't long before Miss Mary chose a book over her chaperone duties and we spent over a half hour in private discourse."
"Miss Mary?"
"Surely you haven't forgotten the younger Misses Bennet?"
"No, of course not," Darcy said with impatience. "I was merely a little surprised that Miss Mary accompanied you out."
Bingley smiled to himself. "Well, Miss Lydia and Miss Kitty are a bit young to serve in that capacity. Besides, I'm sure you'll agree that neither are suitable chaperones."
Darcy agreed, as understated as the description was. He still knew nothing of Elizabeth's day, however. "I surmise that the rest of your visit went well, then."
"It did. Mrs. Bennet's brother and his wife, the Gardiners, had brought Jane and her sister back from London and are staying for a few days. A very pleasant couple!" Bingley watched his friend as he added, "He is the uncle who lives near Cheapside. You must recall Caroline mentioning them."
Resisting his impatience, Darcy said, "Yes, yes. I remember something of the sort. Pleasant, are they? Is he much like his sister?"
"Not at all! I daresay even you would approve him, Darcy."
"You make me sound like an ogre. Am I as difficult as that?" Darcy grimaced.
Bingley's eyes widened. "Whatever gave you that idea? Difficult to please you might be but I wouldn't say you are generally difficult. Unquestionably a man of high standards but that is what makes you an excellent friend; loyal, trustworthy and honest. I could ask for none better."
His conscience pained him with Bingley's speech. Darcy did not feel in the least deserving of the description. "You are too generous by far," he finally said. "That is an accurate representation of yourself but I fear I fall short of such an honourable portrait."
Bingley's amusement vanished. "This is too grim even for you. Has this business with Wickham altered you?"
Darcy considered the question. His recent disappointment and subsequent encounter with Wickham had definitely altered the way he viewed himself as well as other people. "Bingley, it is time I confessed something to you."
An eyebrow rose with Bingley's surprise. He sat up a bit straighter in his chair, anticipating a disclosure of some magnitude. Was Darcy about to reveal a longstanding attachment for which he required guidance? "This sounds ominous."
"You asked if my altercation with Wickham had caused some change in my opinions and I must admit that it has had some effect on me. It is not the only experience I've had of late, however, that has prompted me to examine my actions." Darcy drew in a long breath. "I was aware of Miss Bennet's presence in London. Furthermore, I deliberately chose not to inform you."
"You knew?" Stunned, Bingley could say nothing more. He looked away from his friend then pushed his chair back and stood up. A moment later he sat again. "How could you?"
"I have no excuse to offer other than my own arrogance. I took it upon my myself to protect you from something I perceived as dangerous."
Shaking his head, Bingley said, "I meant how could you know Miss Bennet was in town but you have answered my second question. Dangerous! You amaze me with your notions of danger. What did you think I would do, run off to Scotland?"
"Is it really important? Is it not enough to know that I realise my error and want to put it right, hopeful that no lasting damage has occurred?" Darcy's head was beginning to ache.
"I am pleased to report that your hope is not misplaced, then!" Attempting to keep his outrage in check, Bingley nevertheless set the china rattling when he brought his fist down on the table. "I am not a child, Darcy!"
Wincing at both the sound and the increased throbbing in his head, Darcy pushed his plate away. "I'm sorry, Charles. I'm sorry for my actions and for the pain I've caused you. If you wish me to leave your home I shall make the necessary arrangements first thing in the morning."
"Don't be ridiculous. Of course you are welcome to remain here."
Darcy rose from the table, leaning against the edge to steady himself. "Forgive me but I think I should have listened to Mrs. MacLean after all."
Concern immediately displaced Bingley's anger. "Let me call a servant to help you upstairs." Darcy declined the offer with a small shake of his head. "Darcy," his friend called before he stepped from the room. "Do not distress yourself over this matter. Although I agree that your interference was high-handed I will not allow it to distort our friendship. Yes, I'm angry, but I've also seen Miss Bennet and am confident of her regard in my mind. Despite everything and everyone we will marry. I am sure of it."
His head bowed, Darcy paused with one hand on the doorjamb. He did not turn to face Bingley as he replied. "You'll find no opposition from me. I wish you only happiness." Almost as an afterthought he added in such a quiet voice that Bingley wasn't sure he heard correctly, "Oh, what a bitter thing it is to look into happiness through another man's eyes."¹
***
The morning dawned clear and bright, luring Elizabeth from the house as soon as breakfast was over. She had spent so much time alone with her thoughts that she purposely sought out her aunt for counsel. There was no easy way to broach the subject uppermost in her mind but fortunately Mrs. Gardiner was well aware of the torment her niece had been suffering. As they left the house behind she took Elizabeth's arm while they walked and spoke gently.
"You have not been sleeping well."
Elizabeth's hand rose to touch her own face. "Is it that obvious?"
"Perhaps to one who knows and cares about you it is apparent. You have clearly done a lot of soul-searching, Lizzy. Have you reached any conclusions?"
"Yes and no," replied Elizabeth with a tired smile. "It is embarrassing to realise that I was completely taken in by Mr. Wickham. What a fool I was to allow my head to be turned by his charming words and looks!"
"That sounds a little severe," said Mrs. Gardiner. "I hope you aren't merely reacting to this situation by adopting an opposite view of the men involved."
"I don't think so. My conversation with Mr. Wickham only served to open my eyes to how easily I trusted him with no real proof of his character." She lowered her voice. "He practically admitted to me that he is responsible for Mr. Darcy's injuries!"
"Did he, now?" her aunt said, wide-eyed. "Lizzy, I get the impression that you are blaming yourself for far more than just being innocently deceived."
"Oh, I spoke rashly. I said too much." Frustrated with herself, Elizabeth heaved a sigh and shook her head impatiently. "You remember what I told you Mr. Wickham said about Mr. Darcy's interest in me? Well, I am sorry to say that my words are what prompted his suggestion. I did not mean to expose Mr. Darcy's feelings in this way but I'm sure it was evident when I said that jealousy was his motive for seeking out Mr. Wickham."
Mrs. Gardiner's face reflected her disappointment. "Lizzy, how could you?"
"You cannot imagine how I have reproached myself! Not only for having said so much to Mr. Wickham but for being that cause of Mr. Darcy's misfortune." Reaching a turn in the path, Elizabeth steered her aunt in the direction that would take them further from the house. "I saw Colonel Fitzwilliam immediately after I had visited Mr. Wickham. He confirmed what I had suspected. Mr. Darcy came to Hertfordshire because of what I had said to him."
"What do you mean?"
"The Colonel said that his cousin feared a lady was involved and that he had come to expose Mr. Wickham in order to ensure that this lady would not become a victim of his schemes. Even Colonel Fitzwilliam concluded that I was the lady in question and I'm certain he knows nothing of what happened between Mr. Darcy and myself that evening. I have had time to think although it is clear that my preference for Mr. Wickham was a serious lapse in judgment. I am now left to wonder if I was equally deficient in estimating Mr. Darcy's character." She looked to her aunt, confusion plainly written on her face.
Mrs. Gardiner sympathised and offered what she considered the best advice. "Perhaps you should put all of your previous opinions behind you and begin your acquaintance afresh."
Elizabeth was hesitant. "Would Mr. Darcy be willing to do that, do you think? I said such horrible things to him. He must hate me for it."
Smiling, her aunt softly said, "That cannot be possible. He came here after your rejection specifically to prevent you from being hurt."
"Or worse," added Elizabeth with a thoughtful expression. "Well, if he could put my hurtful words behind him then I can at least try to forget the manner of his proposal."
Mrs. Gardiner laughed. "By all means, forget how he proposed but remember that he did! That may help you to see him differently." She laughed again as the colour rushed to her niece's face.
***
Jane did not wish to appear to be forever waiting for Mr. Bingley to visit each morning so when her sister and aunt returned from their stroll she asked Elizabeth to accompany her to Meryton for there were one or two things she needed from the milliner's shop. While they walked their conversation was light, Elizabeth comprehending her sister's need to avoid the subject of Mr. Bingley. That was all their mother could talk about day in and day out!
It felt good to be out together again. They spoke of spring, how renewed and refreshed it made them feel. The glow in Jane's face was not due to the changing season, however, and both young women were quite aware of it.
The milliner's was a small shop but not busy. Jane found some lace which appealed to her as well as a pale yellow ribbon she fancied would be ideal to replace the worn one on Elizabeth's bonnet. Having completed their purchases the ladies left the shop and slowly made their way down the street, peering in windows as they went. Up one side and down the other they walked until there were no more shop windows to lure them. It was as they were preparing to turn back to Longbourn that a stately carriage rolled toward them from the London road. As it drew even with them the driver called to the horses to halt. Elizabeth was surprised to see Colonel Fitzwilliam alight and, with a large smile, he enquired after her health.
"I am well, thank you," replied Elizabeth. "You have not yet met my sister Jane, have you?"
The Colonel bowed politely. "Miss Bennet. It is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance." He took note of the soft expression in her eyes and her genuine smile. It was perfectly understandable how Bingley had fallen under her spell. "May I offer you ladies a ride back to your home?"
Jane's surprise was plainly visible and she looked to Elizabeth for an answer. "That is very kind of you, Colonel, but the day is lovely and we do not have far to walk. We would not want to take you out of your way, either."
"I understand but it would not be out of our way. I am just returning from London with Mr. Darcy's sister," he explained. Turning back toward the coach he called to someone within, "Georgiana, there are some ladies I'd like you to meet."
Elizabeth could feel Jane tense beside her. This was the young woman that Miss Bingley had hinted would eventually be her brother's wife. The two sisters held their breath as a tall figure was helped down the step by Colonel Fitzwilliam. The introductions took place and at once Elizabeth realised that Miss Darcy was not the arrogant and spoiled girl that Mr. Wickham had described. Her demeanour was that of a shy and hesitant young woman, eager to make new friends but unsure of her reception. Elizabeth was curious about Miss Bingley's assertions but felt confident that the strength of Mr. Bingley's affections that had been evident the last few days would not wane in the presence of this lady.
"I hope to see you again while I am here," Miss Darcy was saying. "I do not know when that may be, however. Now I am eager to see my brother and assure myself of his continued good health."
"It is not enough, apparently, for me to tell her he is fine," Fitzwilliam teased. "She insisted on seeing him for herself."
Wide eyed, Miss Darcy protested in a soft voice. "I was not fooled by his letter nor by your assurances that all was well. Both of you would prefer I not worry but that is not possible unless I see him." She shyly looked at Elizabeth and Jane. "I cannot help it. He is all I have left."
In a wounded tone Fitzwilliam said, "I am so much nothing, it seems." When his cousin appeared stricken with remorse and about to apologise he smiled. "You have not offended me, Georgiana. You are too much like your brother in many respects, one of them being the tendency to worry inordinately about protecting the ones you love most."
Elizabeth's heart jumped with his words and she nearly missed hearing Jane's reassurance of the young girl.
"I am convinced that your cousin is not misleading you, Miss Darcy. Mr. Bingley has told me that your brother is recovering quite quickly and I'm sure you will find him with little more than a headache and in need of a bit more rest."
Miss Darcy gratefully accepted Jane's encouraging news but seeing that his cousin had tarried as long as her patient kindness allowed, Fitzwilliam helped her back into the carriage and bid farewell to the Misses Bennet before he, too, climbed aboard. Elizabeth and Jane watched them drive away with mixed feelings. Jane had found Miss Darcy to be a likeable young lady who just might prove to be Mr. Bingley's real match.
Elizabeth could only struggle with a growing apprehension that she had never truly recognized the man who was Mr. Darcy.
***
¹ William Shakespeare ~
Chapter 11
Georgiana Darcy's mind was little eased by the sight of the bruise that marked the side of her brother's forehead. Had she been less demure her cousin would have received a withering glance intended to scold him for trying to dissuade her from coming to Netherfield. However, Miss Darcy was shy and a lady so instead of reproaching Colonel Fitzwilliam she lent her energy to comforting her brother as he was clearly distressed by events.
"I cannot stand here and listen to this," the Colonel declared. "The whole mess could have been avoided if Darcy wasn't so stubborn, insisting on handling it himself." He turned to address Georgiana. "You may feel as sorry for him as you like but he deserves none of it."
Darcy waved him out of the room, anxious to set his sister's mind at ease and not wanting their cousin to continually interrupt with his flippant remarks. "Georgiana, do not fuss. I promise you it is not as bad as it looks. Please sit down"
Obediently she sat although her expression appeared no less concerned. "Fitzwilliam, is it true? Did George do this to you?"
"Indirectly." Taking a deep breath Darcy said, "Georgiana, you know I am pleased to see you but I wish you hadn't come here before this ugly business with Wickham is settled."
"I am not afraid to see him," she bravely replied although her lip quivered slightly. "But I don't understand."
"What don't you understand, my dear?"
"Why did he wait so long to act? It has been months since you saved me from making the worst mistake of my life. Had he been planning all this time?" Wide-eyed with apprehension, Georgiana patiently waited for her brother to enlighten her.
For Darcy the answer was not so easy to formulate. He was dismayed to realise that his sister blamed herself for this most recent trouble with Wickham. How could he alleviate her mind while maintaining the necessary discretion where Miss Bennet was concerned? Darcy knew he had no right to reveal that lady's lapse, particularly since it was not common knowledge among the local inhabitants. There would be questions that might raise an unwelcome interest in determining the source of his information, something that Darcy would prefer to avoid at all costs. He chose his words carefully before responding. "I do not know what plans Wickham may have had, if any. I initiated contact this time. I had come to realise that my decision last summer only allowed him to continue his profligate ways and would perhaps ensure him returning yet again to place more demands upon my sense of honour." He watched his sister closely for any sign of uneasiness. "I believed him to be devising some plan which involved a local lady and intended to stop him before she could be hurt or her reputation ruined. He did not welcome my interference."
Georgiana lowered her eyes. "I hope she understands why you did it."
Darcy frowned. His recollection of his sister's behaviour following the trouble at Ramsgate made him wonder how much she really comprehended of his explanations. At the time he had attributed it to her wounded feelings but now he began to suspect that his reasons were not expressed clearly enough. Perhaps if he had been more explicit about Wickham's habits but Darcy had been reluctant to sully his young sister's ears by voicing such disgusting matters. Georgiana usually accepted his word without question and so it had seemed last summer. There had been no need to reveal Wickham's dissolute practices in detail. Now, however, he began to doubt the wisdom of his actions. Not only could he have been more candid but his decision to avoid the smallest risk to Georgiana's reputation had allowed Wickham to remain free. Another young woman was put into jeopardy and who knew how many others there may have been over the months. This was not his sole concern, though. Wickham's freedom also meant he could have returned to Georgiana in spite of the stringent precautions Darcy had employed. He cursed himself for his blind arrogance in presuming too much.
"I failed you," he said in dismay. "Foolishly, I believed my protection was thorough, that no harm could come to you after Wickham had been turned away. I'm sorry, Georgiana. I should have known better. As much as I wanted to believe that the danger had passed it's clear to me now that there is only one sure way to protect you from Wickham."
"What will happen to him?" She continued to look down at her hands.
"I'm not precisely certain although I will accept nothing less than prison. For the sake of all young women he must be locked away." Darcy leaned forward to better see his sister's face. "Can you forgive me for what you've had to endure?"
Georgiana's eyes widened. "Forgive you? You cannot blame yourself for my fears, Fitzwilliam. I may now thank you, however, for putting to rest those same fears. I was worried that George would somehow find a way to see me again and if he did I wouldn't know what to say or do, how to turn him away. I tried to appear unconcerned but when you went to stay with Mr. Bingley I felt more afraid than ever. Your letters were a great comfort to me."
"Why did you not say you wished me to return?" he cried. "I would not have made you so unhappy had I known." We would both have been spared a lot of grief if my visit here had been curtailed.
A wan smile touched her lips. "I had already caused you enough trouble. It is all in the past, however. May we not look forward from this moment?"
"You have never been a cause for trouble, Georgiana," Darcy softly said. "I would also like to look forward but unfortunately it must wait until justice has been served."
"Is that not part of it? It would be just like closing a door on a past chapter and moving on." Georgiana coloured slightly when she saw her brother's expression of admiration.
"How did you become so wise all of a sudden?" he asked with a smile.
She returned the smile. "I have had an excellent teacher whose example is above reproach."
A grunt of scepticism greeted this remark. It bore too close a resemblance to another conversation that had taken place at Netherfield with another young lady.
***
Bingley signed his name with a flourish and sanded the paper. "What do you think?" he asked the other gentleman sprawled along the sofa reading a newspaper. He wasn't really interested in Fitzwilliam's opinion but he liked to ask.
One corner of the paper tipped down, the Colonel peering over the top of it. "About what?"
"About my idea," Bingley cheerfully replied. "The single ladies will still outnumber us single gentlemen but it will make a more respectable party. What do you think the chances are that I could persuade Miss Darcy to act as my hostess?"
Fitzwilliam eyed him blandly. "I think you'll find more resistance from Darcy than Georgiana."
"Hmm," mused Bingley. "I should have a word with him right away, then." He shook the sand from his letter and sealed it, taking it with him as he left the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam returned to his newspaper.
Bingley reached the door to his friend's room as Miss Darcy was leaving it. She curtsied shyly and murmured a greeting, adding an apology for not doing so earlier in her haste to see her brother.
"Perfectly understandable," Bingley assured her. "When Fitzwilliam told me you had come with him from London I immediately had the room next to Darcy's readied for you. I hope it is acceptable."
"I'm sure it is," said Georgiana in a stronger voice. "You are very kind, Mr. Bingley, to make arrangements when I arrived unannounced."
"It is no trouble at all. You are practically family," Bingley smiled. She excused herself to change from her travelling clothes, Bingley directing her to the correct room. He then gave a knock upon Darcy's door. The man himself opened it, having shooed away the nurse when his sister had come, and welcomed his friend in for a visit as well.
"I really must apologise for my behaviour last night, Bingley," began Darcy.
"What is it about you Darcys today? Both of you wanting to apologise for the simplest of things." Laughing, Bingley followed the other man to the window alcove where they stood for a moment, silently looking out at the land. Bingley, however, was not prone to quiet contemplations and soon grew restless. "I decided to take your advice."
Darcy's attention was drawn with that remark. "Which advice was that?"
Bingley held the letter aloft. "This is an invitation to the Bennets to dine here tomorrow evening. I am not sending for my sister, though. As you said, why should we stand on ceremony just because it would not be proper etiquette in London."
"I don't recall putting it quite that way but it matters little," chuckled Darcy.
"Well," said Bingley with a blush, "I expect you and your cousin to do your share of amusing the ladies."
"While you monopolise Miss Bennet's attention? I don't know what you expect me to accomplish. Fitzwilliam is talented enough to keep the rest of them entertained but I doubt my presence will be welcomed by any of the Bennets." He tried not to sound resentful although he doubted his success.
Bingley looked surprised. "I admit that Mrs. Bennet doesn't appear to be very enamoured of you but I thought Miss Elizabeth enjoyed a good argument. She certainly did last year when she stayed here while her sister was ill."
"Yes, well....."
"And," continued Bingley, ignoring his friend, "I can promise you that Mr. Bennet is fond of discussions that would interest you. I couldn't understand him at all so I'm sure you two would get along famously."
Darcy's throat went dry. Just the thought of sitting in a stuffy room facing the father of the woman who had scathingly rejected him set his heart racing. The temptation to see Elizabeth again was strong but there was an equal desire to avoid a repetition of that pain and mortification. He was unable to speak.
"There is something else I need to ask you." Bingley did not notice the pale face of his companion. "I wondered if you would permit Miss Darcy to play hostess for me."
"Tomorrow night."
"Yes, tomorrow night. I did say I invited them tomorrow? My enthusiasm may have made me get ahead of myself." Chattering on, Bingley outlined his plans for the dinner, seating arrangements and menu selection. Darcy heard little of it until the end. "So as you suggested I thought of another suitable lady to act as hostess while I remain at Netherfield. Or as long as she remains here. Well, if you will permit it, of course."
Darcy brought a hand to his head, pressing his fingers against a throbbing temple. He was amazed at how five minutes in Bingley's company brought on a headache. How would he ever manage an entire evening with Mrs. Bennet? "If Georgiana has no objection to performing the role then I will not object. Do allow me to ask her, though. She has little experience with hosting but I don't want her to agree for fear of offending you for I'm sure you know as well as I that she would do just that."
Bingley nodded in agreement. "Yes, she is such a sweet girl that she would consent even if it terrifies her. Thank you, Darcy! I will just send this letter off now."
"Are you not paying a visit to Longbourn today?"
"I did this morning but Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth had gone into the village. I had to be content with Miss Mary's company for the short time I stayed." Bingley's face reflected his feelings on this turn of events. "I'll make up for it tomorrow, though, and I'll thank you more properly for allowing your sister to do this favour for me."
Bingley was out the door before Darcy could comment further.
***
"Are you coming down for some tea?" Georgiana poked her head around the door to enquire of her brother. "Perhaps we could take a short walk outside. You look as if you could use some fresh air."
"I'll not say no to the fresh air," replied Darcy gratefully.
He slipped on his coat and took Georgiana's arm, leaning on it a little more than he intended. She stumbled a step or two before adjusting to the pressure, then moved confidently down the hallway. Once outside Darcy directed her to the more pleasant areas of the gardens where he knew there would be a bench. Even such a short walk was too much all at once and he did not wish to tire out his sister.
"Mr. Bingley has asked a favour of you," he said, getting straight to the point.
"Of me? I have heard nothing of it," a surprised Georgiana replied.
"No, he asked me first since it is a matter of proprieties. He would like to invite a local family for dinner tomorrow but as his own sister is not here to act as his hostess he asked if I might permit you do so in her stead. I have no objection but it is entirely up to you, my dear," Darcy gravely said. "If you are not comfortable with the idea then you must say no. I made him no promises."
She looked unsure for a moment but then nodded her head. "I will do this for Mr. Bingley. It cannot be too difficult. We have hosted friends in town and at Pemberley occasionally. One family cannot present any trouble. Are you acquainted with them?"
"Yes." Darcy would have preferred to stop there but it was not possible. "The eldest daughter, Miss Jane Bennet, is likely to receive a proposal of marriage from Bingley very soon. He would like to make a good impression but I doubt that anything could damage him in the eyes of her family."
"Oh, how exciting!" cried Georgiana. "I did not know that Mr. Bingley has fallen in love! What is Miss Bennet like? You said she's the eldest daughter. Are there more?"
Her brother couldn't help laughing. "There are five daughters in all. You will find the two youngest somewhat boisterous. Miss Bennet is quiet but I believe she is very kind."
"I am happy for Mr. Bingley, then, and I shall like her. What about the other two ladies? Have you not met them?"
"I have. Miss Mary is the middle daughter. She is studious but I know little else of her." A significant pause followed before Darcy was able to collect his thoughts again. "The second eldest is Miss Elizabeth. You will like her, I'm sure. She has a quick mind and enjoys lively conversation."
This puzzled Georgiana a little. The description of Miss Elizabeth seemed to suit her brother more than herself. He preferred lively discussions while she enjoyed listening and observing. While Darcy could not be said to have an outgoing nature, his sister was much less effusive and downright shy. If he thought that Miss Bennet would present as an appealing companion to Georgiana then she must accept it as the truth, however odd it seemed to her ears at this moment. "I look forward to meeting them all," was what she said but long after she had returned her brother to his room, Miss Darcy contemplated his words and wondered if he had meant something more by them.
Chapter 12
Colonel Fitzwilliam found his young cousin in the library just before supper. She was searching out something for Darcy to read.
"Is he not joining us?" enquired the Colonel.
Georgiana unhappily informed him that Mrs. MacLean had forbidden her brother from leaving his room that evening. "She was very put out that he had ventured out of doors with me. Can you not send her away?" she begged. "I am here and can look after him just as well."
Fitzwilliam was amused with her determination. "I agree. Darcy does not need the presence of a nurse anymore. He is past the point of danger. I will send her back to London in the morning."
"Thank you," Georgiana breathed. "To own the truth, she frightens me. She has a more disapproving eye than Aunt Catherine!"
Fitzwilliam laughed out loud at that. "I shall provide her with the finest carriage to speed her on her way, then!"
Giggling, Georgiana pulled another book from the shelf and glanced at the title. "There doesn't appear to be a great selection in here," she sighed.
"He'll be grateful for anything, I think." He suddenly recalled his earlier conversation with Bingley. "I understand that we're to have guests here tomorrow evening."
"Yes," replied Georgiana. "Fitzwilliam has informed me."
"Ah, and you have agreed to take the place of honour at Bingley's table, have you?"
Her face flushed. "Oh, you are teasing me! I will merely be looking after the ladies since he cannot properly do that himself. Fitzwilliam told me that Mr. Bingley is in love with one of them!"
"Very much so, if you can trust my judgment in the matter. But you have already met her, Georgiana," he reminded her.
"I have?"
"This morning in Meryton," laughed Fitzwilliam. "Don't tell me you have forgotten already!"
Georgiana was mortified. "You introduced me to two ladies when we stopped in the village. I must confess that I hardly paid any attention to what you said. I had thoughts only for my brother. I am glad you told me! It would be so embarrassing to see them again tomorrow but not remember having met them." She tried to recall what they looked like but could not.
"I should not be surprised, I suppose," replied her cousin, "considering your state of mind this morning. It was probably thoughtless of me to expect you to be eager to meet new people under the circumstances. It would have been equally rude to have driven by without stopping, however. I hope you'll consider at least two faces in tomorrow's crowd to be friendly."
"I shall, thank you. Both you and Fitzwilliam have recommended them to me. How could I doubt it?"
The Colonel suddenly frowned as something vaguely disturbed him about the conversation. Georgiana was still absorbed in finding suitable reading material for her brother and did not notice the change in his mood. "Georgiana," he said after a moment of thought. "Did Darcy write to you while he stayed here with Bingley last year?"
She answered him without turning around. "Of course. He always writes to me when we are apart."
"Did he make any mention of Bingley's attachment then?"
Georgiana shook her head. "He wrote mostly of the quiet and the gardens. He thought I'd like it here and hoped I could come to stay if Mr. Bingley was to return the following summer. Oh, and Miss Bingley asked him to convey her regards several times."
"The quiet?" Fitzwilliam rolled his eyes. "Trust Darcy to skulk off into a corner rather than enjoy the company on offer. Now, now," he hurriedly added when she appeared about to voice an objection. "I was just surprised that he did not write of the Bennet sisters. Seeing that Bingley was interested in the one and I know that your brother was well acquainted with the other, I expected him to have related some of the social functions he'd attended."
His cousin, however, was not surprised. Darcy rarely described social events since he invariably found them tedious and boring, avoiding as many as he could. Having found a book that looked promising, Georgiana excused herself and left to deliver it to her brother's room while the Colonel finally recalled what had caused his own unease.
"How could I have been so thoughtless?" he mumbled to himself as his conversation with Elizabeth Bennet, while they walked on the grounds of Rosings Park, replayed in his mind.
***
Darcy's frown was severe as he examined his reflection. He was not happy with the picture it presented. His man was no happier; the master was normally fastidious but this evening he seemed driven to perfection. A soft knock at the door brought a gruff "Come!" from Darcy.
Georgiana's head peeked tentatively around the corner of the door. "Are you ready? I am just on my way downstairs." She saw his countenance and moved further into the room, suddenly concerned. "Is your head troubling you? You appear unwell."
"Yes. No," Darcy replied with frustration. He dismissed the servant and motioned for his sister to join him at the chairs by the fire. "I do have a slight headache but no more than I've become accustomed to these last few days. I wanted to speak with you about the arrangements for tonight."
"You need not worry," she smiled. "Mr. Bingley's plans were well thought out and required only one or two alterations. The seating at the dinner table was not quite correct but I made the necessary changes with his approval."
"You have always been very attentive to the details of table etiquette but it is not to such niceties that I now refer. I wish to prepare you for what you may find unpleasant." He looked at her with a serious eye. "You will undoubtedly hear Mr. Wickham's name come up in conversation. He made a favourable impression on the neighbourhood while I, unfortunately, did not. I would not be surprised should the general opinion of recent events be contrary to the truth.
"That is not my concern, however. My concern is for you, Georgiana, and your peace of mind. I will do what I can to turn conversation from the subject of Wickham but I cannot promise that the others will be as understanding since they know nothing of our family's history with the man."
"Fitzwilliam," she broke in. "I cannot forever avoid hearing mention of George Wickham. Consider it fortunate that this next week may see the end of our unhappy association with him. With this hope in mind I am quite prepared to brave the gossip. Nothing can be said tonight that would hurt me more than George did."
Darcy's mouth fell open in amazement. "You are not the young girl I left in London a month ago."
Georgiana nodded. "I have had time to reflect upon my own actions last year and consider how I may better conduct myself." She waited for her brother to respond but his silence grew longer and his expression more distant. "Fitzwilliam," said Georgiana, drawing him back to the present. "Will you accompany me downstairs now? I cannot appear after the guests have arrived."
The frown reappeared as Darcy recalled his frustration before the mirror. "I fear I am not as presentable as I'd like." He went back to stand in front of his reflection and scowled.
"You look much more handsome when you smile."
He could not help but oblige with those words. "Hopefully I will not disgrace you, then."
Eyes wide, Georgiana drew in a sharp breath. "That cannot be possible! Consider how Mr. Bingley must be feeling, though. He must be very nervous. You have nothing to worry about. It's not as if you will be sitting at the table with the woman you love beside you. Oh!" she cried, catching sight of the clock. "If I don't go now I shall disgrace you with my inadequate performance of my duties."
Darcy assured her that he would be down shortly and so she closed the door behind her, leaving him alone with his thoughts.
He stood for some moments, studying the image before him. What he saw was not the picture of a handsome, impeccably dressed young man. Gone was the confidence that he was accustomed to seeing. Drawing back his shoulders, Darcy tilted his chin upward and attempted to compose his mind. When he felt the reassuring calm descend he looked for that customary reflection. The face that stared back at him was more than familiar.
".. your manners impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain for the feelings of others...."
***
There was scarcely time to feel anxious on the drive to Netherfield as Elizabeth was squeezed between her two youngest sisters on one seat of the carriage. Jane, their mother and Mary were seated on the forward facing bench, Mrs. Bennet being prone to a delicate stomach when travelling. The strong scent of lavender from that lady's gently waving lace handkerchief filled the confined space. It was enough to make Elizabeth wish she could have ridden above with her father and the driver.
The gardens had suffered neglect over the years. Before Mr. Bingley had leased Netherfield it had stood vacant for quite some time. Mrs. Bennet was immediately struck with a number of suggestions for Jane to encourage Mr. Bingley to execute for the betterment of the grounds. Jane's cheeks blazed as her mother prattled on. Even had she not been impervious to her daughter's embarrassment, Mrs. Bennet was unable to see the effect of her words. The closeness of their confines prohibited such an observation.
At last the carriage came to a stop. The ladies waited for the door to be opened by one of the liveried footmen who then stood with an arm at the ready to assist them down. Mr. Bennet was not long in appearing, prompting his wife to exit the compartment followed by Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty and finally Lydia.
They were announced into the room already occupied by Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy. She came forward with their host to greet his guests, her quiet smile and gentle manners winning approval from everyone. Elizabeth was painfully aware of the absence of Mr. Darcy. Grateful for the preferential treatment of Jane by Mr. Bingley and Miss Darcy's attentions to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Elizabeth ventured to speak with Colonel Fitzwilliam.
This was not easily accomplished. The youngest Bennet daughters had already formed the intention of making his acquaintance without delay. When Elizabeth stepped toward him Lydia and Kitty followed on her heels, pointedly expecting an introduction and, if not forthcoming, prepared to initiate it for themselves. Elizabeth saw no alternative and provided the necessary evil.
Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled warmly, directing his attention toward Elizabeth after he had politely acknowledged her younger sisters. He was all too aware of, and familiar with, the interest in their expressions. He did not want to encourage it but neither did he wish to offend by slighting them.
"It is a rare delight to see so many lovely ladies in one family," he said with a bow.
Lydia and Kitty giggled and nudged one another, much to Elizabeth's chagrin. "Thank you, Colonel," she said. "I hope your opinion remains unchanged at the end of the evening." Lydia very nearly stuck out her tongue but a sharp glance from her elder sister turned it into an insincere smile. The Colonel pretended not to notice.
It was at this moment that Mr. Darcy joined them. Elizabeth felt as if all conversation fell silent with his entrance and the air had suddenly gone stale. Her attention was drawn to the man's tall and formidable presence; to all else she was oblivious. She watched as he first greeted her mother and father but attributed this to the fact that his own sister was sitting with them. No doubt he felt she required some form of respite. To Elizabeth's surprise, however, Darcy then approached herself, civilly recognizing her sisters before turning a hesitant eye on her. The moment was completely awkward; they stood in silent observation of one another, neither able to speak while three others looked on.
"Good evening, Miss Bennet," Darcy said at last. It had seemed like an eternity as he stood there although it had really been only a moment. "I hope that your journey home from Kent was spared any unpleasantness."
The shocking mark on his head bespoke the unpleasantness he had encountered since leaving Kent. Elizabeth heard her own voice replying. "I was sorry to hear of your misfortune, sir. Miss Darcy, I hope, was relieved of her worry when she was finally able to satisfy herself of your continued health."
"She has replaced the nurse whom my doctor had left in his stead. Although my sister's manner is softer I'm sure my compliance with her orders is easier to guarantee." Darcy's lips curved upward tentatively.
"Come now," his cousin said, sparing Elizabeth the opportunity for a reply. "When has she ever ordered you to do anything you hadn't already half a mind to do yourself?"
Elizabeth sensed the lightness in Darcy's mood sink a little as the faint smile faded. This time Lydia spoke up before she could say anything. Feeling mortified at the thought of her youngest sister about to embarrass them all, Elizabeth closed her eyes as the Colonel was questioned about the regiment under his command. "Lydia," she finally managed to interject. "I'm sure Colonel Fitzwilliam would rather talk about less trivial matters than the number and ages of his soldiers."
"On the contrary," Darcy said in a bland voice. "Fitzwilliam likes nothing better than to have a fresh audience to regale with details of his vital role in service to His Majesty."
The Colonel gallantly agreed to entertain the young ladies but not without giving his cousin a thoughtful glance before saying, "I cannot deny Darcy's accusation. However, I don't think we should bore your sister, especially when she has expressed a disinterest in the subject." He gave Elizabeth a smile and a quick wink then walked slowly across the room, an enthralled Lydia and Kitty on either side.
Elizabeth sighed in relief once they had gone. "I must ask you to forgive my sisters for their foolishness and apologize in advance for what I know is to come."
"That is not necessary, by any means," Darcy said with sincerity. He met her eyes briefly, then looked down. "Youth excuses much in the way of foolishness."
Suddenly feeling very young, Elizabeth was at a loss for words. She looked over at Miss Darcy who sat quietly listening to Mrs. Bennet's nonsense without a hint of annoyance. There was a shyness about her that was evident only in the way she occasionally dipped her head to look at her guests when the conversation grew more boisterous. Of course, this particular conversation was one-sided, all on Mrs. Bennet's. Miss Darcy attended to the other lady's words with polite smiles and appropriate expressions but to Elizabeth it was apparent that she simply did not know what to say in reply. It was fortunate that this exactly suited Mrs. Bennet as she disliked contradiction and dearly loved the sound of her own voice.
"I was given to understand that your aunt and uncle were visiting from London." Darcy's voice startled Elizabeth a little. "Did they not come this evening?"
Shaking her head, she explained, "My uncle's business required his presence in town again. They left this morning." She considered how dearly she would miss her aunt's opinions of this evening.
"That is unfortunate although I fully understand the need to attend to business matters when they arise." Darcy glanced uneasily to where Mr. Bennet sat with the appearance of listening to his wife. Yet there was something that suggested he was more interested in what was happening in other parts of the room. Darcy would have preferred a private conversation with Elizabeth but, as he was well aware of her opinion of him, that opportunity seemed unlikely and with the rest of her family in attendance this evening he expected very few chances to speak with her at all. He knew he couldn't afford to waste these few moments. "Miss Bennet," he said, turning to face her squarely, his posture reflecting the significant nature of his intention. "I realise that my very presence is unwelcome to you but while I have the chance to speak I must apologise for my behaviour the other evening at Mr. Collins' home. Please believe me that I had no intention of offending you, nor did I wish to cause you any pain; quite the opposite. If I could undo the effects of my words I would and gladly. However, that is not an option and I am left with offering a meagre apology which I sincerely hope you will accept." Darcy bowed his head, enough to convey the respect that went with his request and still not draw the attention of the others.
An apology was the last thing that Elizabeth had expected to hear. She has almost convinced herself that she could ask his forgiveness for her hurtful remarks and blind trust in Mr. Wickham, though she had doubted any of that would occur this evening. Now Mr. Darcy had surprised her yet again! "I don't quite know what to say," she began. "I accept your apology, sir, with thanks. I would also like to add my own apology for the rude and disrespectful manner in which I addressed you that same evening. I said terrible things about matters which are no business of mine, not to mention that I now realise my opinions to have been based upon information that is probably untrue." Elizabeth watched his expression change from resigned defeat to a tentative hopefulness. She smiled nervously.
"Ah, it appears that dinner is ready," announced Bingley.
The move toward the dining room began. Bingley escorted Georgiana, as his hostess, on one arm while Jane took the other. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet followed, Mary following behind. Colonel Fitzwilliam's arms were clutched by Kitty and Lydia, neither willing to give an inch to the other.
Darcy looked at Elizabeth, his eyebrows raised in silent enquiry. She could have simply walked beside him to the other room but, courage rising, she took his arm and her smile grew warmer. He inhaled deeply as her hand touched his sleeve but restrained the urge to put his other hand over hers. His head was spinning. Whether it was the effect of standing for so long or Elizabeth's proximity he was not sure. He only hoped he wasn't dreaming.
Chapter 13
Miss Darcy waited just inside the doorway to direct the guests to their seats. She had done the best she could with the guest list but considering there were so many ladies and so few men the arrangement still looked lopsided. Having an odd number of guests did nothing to dispel this impression. As long as the prominent guests were properly located Georgiana told herself the others would not mind. The party was small enough to allow for more casual seating. The only detail she found dissatisfying was that her brother was almost the furthest person from her, seated next to Jane Bennet who took up the place of second honour at Mr. Bingley's left hand. Thankful for her cousin's presence at her own right hand, Georgiana could enjoy the conversation between him and Mr. Bennet without having to contribute very much. As she listened she could also observe the others down the length of the table. The youngest Bennets were far enough from Colonel Fitzwilliam to spare him any further interrogation while Miss Elizabeth appeared to be very agreeable company on his right. Georgiana noticed her brother spoke little to his dinner companions but as that was not unusual and he had earlier admitted to a headache she was not concerned. She did see him speak once or twice to Miss Jane but Miss Elizabeth on his left was awarded more observation than conversation from him.
Mr. Bingley's cook did a fine job; the courses were delicious, varied and served in a timely fashion. Georgiana grew a little more nervous as dessert drew to a close for she alone would be responsible for entertaining the ladies while the gentlemen remained at the table for port. All too soon the time came to remove to the drawing room and she nodded to Mr. Bingley as the ladies all rose and followed her out.
Bingley leaned against the back of his chair and let out a satisfied sigh. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bennet left their seats to take another closer to their host while Darcy drained his wine glass.
"Your sister is a jewel, Darcy," declared Bingley.
The Colonel turned to his cousin with a proud smile. "Yes, she will do you credit as a hostess until you marry. I hope your future wife will be as competent."
Darcy was no less proud of Georgiana. "She takes her role very seriously. It will be my pleasure to pass on your compliments to her."
"She is a lovely young lady, Mr. Darcy." Fingering the glass of port just poured by the servant, Mr. Bennet studied the young man across the table. "I understand that much of the credit belongs to you for raising her in your parents' absence."
"I am not alone in that honour, sir," replied Darcy. He gestured toward Fitzwilliam. "My cousin shares that duty with me."
"You take your duties as seriously as your sister, I would say." Mr. Bennet brought his glass to his lips.
"Not a truer word was spoken," nodded Fitzwilliam. "You certainly must have your hands full with five young ladies to look after, Mr. Bennet."
"I have one advantage over you young gentlemen, however." He chuckled at their puzzled expressions. "I have a wife who does most of the work searching out husbands for our girls. Although," he added, his gaze travelling over the other men, "this evening we have three very eligible young men and five eligible young ladies. It would seem the odds are in my favour that at least one.... or possibly two of my daughters may be accounted for."
Fitzwilliam blanched at the thought but Bingley laughed. "Why not claim all three of us?"
"Oh, I would not be so selfish," answered Mr. Bennet with another sip of the port. "I'm sure one of Mrs. Long's nieces could use a husband as well."
Beginning to see the amusement in this conversation, the Colonel looked at his cousin and noticed Darcy's pained expression. "Are Mrs. Long's nieces that bad, Darcy?" he grinned.
"I would like to oblige you with an answer to that question but I must confess that my head is splitting. If you gentlemen would excuse me, the nurse left some powders that will help and then I think I'll take a short walk outside." Darcy rose from his chair, swaying slightly. "I shall join you and the ladies in the drawing room a bit later."
"Darcy? Are you sure you're alright?" Bingley asked, his face reflecting his concern.
His friend held up one hand to stay Bingley as he was halfway out of his seat. "No, no. Stay there. I am fine. I'll take my time and can always send a servant to fetch what I need if I have to." Darcy sent an encouraging look toward his host. "Enjoy the time with your guests."
The concern did not leave Bingley's face even after Darcy had left the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam merely shrugged and remained silent. He knew his cousin well enough not to argue. Darcy was recovered enough to be stubborn.
"A resilient young man, isn't he?" mused Mr. Bennet aloud. "I imagined a thump on the head like that would keep him down for a few more days at least."
Bingley smiled. "There may have been some other motivation for him to agree to be one of this evening's party."
Mr. Bennet raised an eyebrow over the rim of his glass.
***
Elizabeth was frustrated. As soon as the ladies had entered the drawing room her mother had begun speaking and had not stopped. Mary had long since retreated to the piano to play concertos that would normally soothe agitated nerves. In this instance, however, nothing but silence would alleviate Elizabeth's distress. How Jane withstood it was a mystery. Mrs. Bennet continued to praise the dinner, the diners and their host long after the coffee had cooled. Kitty and Lydia had their heads together, no doubt discussing the fine figure cut by Colonel Fitzwilliam should he appear next in his red coat.
Miss Darcy must be growing tired of this! Oh, what an impression we make, lamented Elizabeth. She tried to distract her mother from her favourite topic to no avail; Mrs. Bennet would not give up while her prize was within sight. Dining in Mr. Bingley's house was as good as a guarantee in her opinion. Jane would be married before the year was out.
It was Jane herself who finally turned the conversation. "Your brother appears to be making an excellent recovery, Miss Darcy. It must have greatly eased your mind when you arrived here yesterday to see that no-one was misleading you out of kindness."
Georgiana turned a grateful smile on her guest. "Oh, yes! I'm afraid I was in such a state when we met in town that I scarcely know what I said but when I saw Fitzwilliam and was able to speak with him it was, indeed, a relief."
"Shocking!" cried Mrs. Bennet. "The entire affair was shocking! Such a quiet little town we have and this sort of thing upsets everyone!"
"Mama!" hissed Elizabeth.
"She is only saying what everyone else has, Lizzy," Lydia insolently responded. "Just because Mr. Wickham didn't want you doesn't mean the rest of us will desert him now."
"Lydia!" Jane was mortified but her sister didn't seem to notice.
"Well, it's true! Lizzy practically kept Wickham all to herself before Mary King waved her inheritance in front of him and lured him away." Lydia began to enjoy the moment as all eyes were on her. "Now that she is gone Wickham was safe until Mr. Darcy came along and -."
"That is enough, Lydia!" Elizabeth angrily interrupted.
The music stopped as Mary could not avoid hearing the raised voices and even Mrs. Bennet had the sense to realise her youngest daughter had overstepped her place. The lavender scented handkerchief appeared and she looked to Elizabeth for assistance. Elizabeth and Jane attempted to repair the situation.
"Please excuse us for a moment, Miss Darcy," Jane said in her soft voice before taking a reluctant Lydia by the arm and pulling her away.
Hurt was plainly visible in Miss Darcy's face. She had no friends here and it appeared that her brother had none, either. He had warned her and although she had promised herself to bravely face whatever may come it was proving to be impossible. If only this young woman had any idea what George Wickham was really like! Surely she would not be saying such hurtful things now. Georgiana summoned up all of her strength and tried to emotionally detach herself from the conversation, as she had seen her brother do many times. It was not easy when confronted with such intense dislike. It was no wonder that he retreated to a wall or a window when people became so offensive!
Miss Elizabeth appeared at her elbow and was speaking in a quiet voice filled with kindness and sympathy. "There is a lovely view of the garden from that window," she said, indicating the one furthest from where Jane had steered Lydia and was earnestly reprimanding her. "The moonlight is strong this evening. I think you will like it."
Instantly Georgiana knew why her brother had praised this woman as one worthy of her acquaintance. Of all the ladies present this evening there were only two who had conducted themselves with propriety. It was no surprise that Mr. Bingley's love was one of them. Miss Darcy sighed heavily, just catching a sob before it could escape her lips, and eagerly accepted Elizabeth's suggestion.
The window alcove was cool, emphasising the heat on Georgiana's cheeks and brow. The two ladies said nothing at first, gazing out unseeing upon the moonlit landscape. Georgiana could not trust herself to speak without releasing her tears. Elizabeth broke the silence at last.
"I cannot apologise enough for my sister Lydia's appalling behaviour," she began. "She is young and foolish but she is also terribly spoilt and selfish with no thought for anyone else's feelings. I am truly sorry....."
The words soothed the raw edge of Miss Darcy's emotion. She began to feel control returning, needing only a few more minutes before being able to speak again. So they stood together, the shadowy gardens attracting their interest, while Elizabeth pointed out the statuary and told her where the paths led.
***
The pain in his head was receding. Regrettably, it would return once he left the quiet seat in the garden but the fresh air had helped him to think, to sort out the confusion of the evening.
Darcy had wondered upon entering the dining room if Elizabeth was as aware of his unsteadiness as he was aware of her closeness. There were one or two faltered steps where he had involuntarily drawn her arm tighter to his side in order to maintain his balance. She appeared not to have noticed; at least she did not pull away. When they reached their chairs he fancied that she had withdrawn her hold more slowly than needed before taking her seat. Conscious of her presence beside him throughout dinner, Darcy was more than usually reserved, speaking only once or twice to the lady who held most of his attention although he did make an effort to engage Jane Bennet occasionally if only to distract himself from his cousin Fitzwilliam's more successful endeavours with Elizabeth.
The silence lulled him until he realised that the music he had been able to hear, coming from the drawing room, had stopped. The possibility that the other gentlemen had already joined the ladies occurred to him and Darcy quickly glanced up toward the well lit windows just as two figures appeared in one of them. He instinctively recognised one as Elizabeth Bennet and his breath slowly exhaled between his slightly parted lips. It took but a moment more to conclude that her companion was none other than his own sister. Seeing the two of them thus brought a smile to his face; if he could not reap the benefits of her company Darcy was pleased that Georgiana could.
His confidence bolstered, he left the bench and made his way back to the house to enjoy what the rest of the evening would bring.
***
"Oh!" Georgiana gave a startled cry as a movement in the darkness below drew her eye. Then she laughed lightly. "Oh, it's only Fitzwilliam!"
"Whatever is he doing out there?" Elizabeth had also been surprised. "I thought one of the statues had come to life."
Georgiana looked suddenly concerned. "I don't like it that he's out there alone. He should have taken a servant."
This worry had occurred to Elizabeth as well. "He was not very steady on his feet when we went in to dinner. I was afraid he wouldn't make it to the table without my support. Perhaps you should ring for one of the footmen to go out to him, to deliver a message from you?"
"Yes. Oh, thank you for that suggestion!" A relieved Georgiana hurried away, the unpleasantness of the last half hour momentarily forgotten.
Elizabeth frowned at the sight of Lydia with her arms crossed, looking every inch the spoilt child she was. Determination sent her across the room to assist Jane but Mrs. Bennet stopped her before going very far. Her handkerchief was still waving about and her eyes were wide as she anxiously enquired if Miss Darcy was terribly angry.
"Fortunately she is a sweet and forgiving young woman," Elizabeth replied. "Excuse me, Mama. I would like to make sure that Lydia is perfectly aware of her place and will behave for the rest of this evening." She left her mother whimpering into the lavender scent.
It took but a few moments for Elizabeth to extract a grudging promise from Lydia to keep the subject of Mr. Wickham and the encounter with Mr. Darcy out of all conversation and particularly when Miss Darcy would be present. Lydia had been on the receiving end of enough scoldings by her second eldest sister to know when it was in her best interest to do as she was told. One glance toward her mother had shown her that no support would be coming from that direction.
Elizabeth now returned to Georgiana's side as the young girl waited for her brother to appear. It did not take long before the door opened and he walked in, looking as worried as his sister was feeling.
"Georgiana," he said after hastily bowing to the ladies in the room. "What is wrong? What can I do?" He nodded to Elizabeth as she excused herself to allow them some privacy. "Has something happened to upset you?"
She quickly assured him that was not the case. "It was you that concerned me. Elizabeth and I saw you outside in the garden and were worried that you might.... well...." Georgiana looked down at her hands. "She said that you weren't very secure on your feet before dinner and we didn't like to see you outside by yourself if you needed some... help."
"Oh." Darcy was relieved that no unpleasantness had occurred to distress her and he smiled to help alleviate her mind on his situation. "You need not worry about me, my dear. I am not going to expire at a moment's notice. I promise to give you plenty of warning before I cause you any more grief." Her shy smile answered his. "Now, have I understood you correctly? Does Miss Elizabeth meet with your approval?"
"My approval?" Georgiana was momentarily taken aback. It almost sounded as if her brother intended more than simply a new acquaintance for his sister. "Of course I like her. You told me earlier that I shall and you were right."
Darcy frowned slightly. "I did not mean for you to consider it a command, Georgiana. I would like to know your honest opinion."
"I do like her. It is not just on your recommendation, either. I like Miss Bennet, too." Her eyes sparkled with an awakening excitement. "Do you think when Mr. Bingley has married her that we will then be seeing more of Miss Elizabeth, too? I should like that very much."
"So would I," Darcy quietly said as his eyes followed Elizabeth's figure about the room.
Georgiana thoughtfully watched her brother's preoccupied expression then gently wrapped her arm around his. "I shouldn't be neglecting my guests. Come and join us, Fitzwilliam," she said. He needed no urging, allowing her to lead him to the room's centre and Elizabeth Bennet.