Beginning, Previous Section, Section V, Next Section
Chapter 25
A stately carriage rolled up to the front steps of Netherfield, smartly liveried footmen hurriedly clambering down before it stopped. They rushed to lower the steps and open the door, standing ready to offer assistance to the occupants as they stepped down.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh paused in the opening to scrutinise the structure before her. There was nothing remarkable about it and the building certainly lacked any evidence of status, either current or past. She sniffed disdainfully then reached for the hand of the footman, descending to the gravel drive to wait for her daughter to join her.
Anne de Bourgh blinked at the brightness of the late afternoon sun, wishing her mother had not dragged her all this way and quite likely for nothing.
"Do not squint, Anne," commanded Lady Catherine. "It will cause creases in your face. Your skin is far too delicate to withstand such abuse."
"Yes, mother," the young woman responded automatically.
Oblivious to the admonishment she'd just delivered, Lady Catherine frowned. "Why is there no-one to greet us? Does this Bingley fellow keep no servants?" Making a noise which expressed her dissatisfaction, and sounded suspiciously like a snort, she strode purposefully up the steps, her own footman barely arriving in time to open the door before her. No sooner had she crossed the threshold than the sound of a woman's shrill screech was heard. This provided more than enough incentive for Lady Catherine to fear the worst and she moved faster than anyone could remember seeing her move before this day. She headed straight for the door behind which she expected, naturally, to find her nephew.
It was not the nephew she anticipated but the lady with him was undoubtedly in danger of a tattered reputation! The door closed quickly and with a bang.
"Fitzwilliam!" she said in her most authoritative voice. 'Unhand her at once!"
The Colonel stiffened and stood completely still. "Lady Catherine?" His back remained toward the door; he hoped he was mistaken.
"I am not accustomed to being disobeyed. Remove your hand from her."
Fitzwilliam wished neither to disobey his aunt nor to place the lady, and himself, in a more precarious position yet he could not do one without causing the other. "I cannot." It was simply stated.
"Cannot?" She would not deign to voice the rest of the query but merely waited for her nephew to explain.
"The lady has suffered a mishap, resulting in damage to her gown. If I remove my hand I fear the result may render more than myself subject to reproach."
Lady Catherine's chin rose, she looked down her nose and said in an imperious tone as she pointed her walking stick at the couple, "I am not so simple as that, Fitzwilliam. You will remove your hand from this young woman's person and remove yourself to the other side of the room, appropriately averting your eyes, of course." She waited for him to comply and when the Colonel was safely seated with his back toward them, advanced upon Miss Bingley, looking her up and down with a critical eye. Caroline self-consciously held the torn fabric of her gown in place as best she could, feeling the heat in her face as Lady Catherine's gaze moved over her. "So," the older woman finally said. "You must be the young woman who has been the cause of my nephews cutting short their visit at Rosings. I will have you know that I do not appreciate such shallow and deceitful tricks employed in the pursuit of a man." She brought up her quizzing glass to more closely inspect Miss Bingley. Disdainfully she let it drop and screwed up her face in disgust. "What sort of friend is this Bingley person that he carries on this manner? Letting his friends bring women of this sort into his house! If my dear sister knew what her son was up to she would be appalled! And you," she whirled to face Fitzwilliam. "Don't think your father won't hear of your transgressions." Her voice suddenly fell silent as a horrible thought occurred to her. "Where is Darcy?" she asked and then, not satisfied with Fitzwilliam's less than prompt reply, repeated her question, punctuated with raps of her stick on the floor.
"He is not here," was all Fitzwilliam managed to say.
"I can see that! Do not add insolence to your sins, nephew. I asked where Darcy is and I expect an answer." Lady Catherine's gaze was sharp enough to cut through him.
"I meant," the Colonel began again, this time in a more respectful tone, "that he has left the house. Early this morning."
"I did not see his carriage when I stopped at his house in Town. Has he gone to Pemberley?"
Fitzwilliam rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I cannot say."
"Hmmph!" His aunt's eyes narrowed and she leaned closer to him. "I expect you to leave this house at once, as well. Such behaviour is intolerable and I will not have either of my nephews indulging in it. This may be a small estate in the middle of nowhere but there are eyes, Fitzwilliam! There are ears, too! You and Darcy have put your family's reputation at risk with this scandalous conduct and it must stop now. I cannot stay in this house a moment longer. Anne must not be exposed to," she raised her stick once more and directed it behind her toward Miss Bingley, "women of that kind."
"Lady Catherine -."
"Do not interrupt me!" she cut off his objection without blinking an eye. "Pack your things. I expect to see you at your father's house in town this evening." With a rustling of heavy skirts, Lady Catherine moved past him toward the door, muttering to herself, "At least Darcy had the sense to leave here before serious harm could befall him. Or..." She stopped with her hand on the doorknob. "Tell me no woman accompanied him, Fitzwilliam."
"He took no lady with him, Aunt."
"Thank heavens!" She waited expectantly at the closed door. The Colonel looked at the floor, stole a peek at Caroline, still red-faced near the piano, then joined his aunt. "I trust you to follow your instructions, nephew," she said, indicating the door to him. He opened it and she sailed through, calling out to her daughter to get back in the carriage; they were leaving immediately.
Fitzwilliam felt a surge of panic rise. Georgiana! He had no idea where she was but if Lady Catherine saw her then she would know that Darcy had not left Netherfield. Trying to conceal his uneasiness, the Colonel's eyes darted left to right, into rooms and up the stairs as they walked down the length of the hall to the front door. Another moment of anxiety when the doors opened before them but it was only the servants. Lady Catherine was intent on her purpose, for this he was thankful. She paid no heed to her surroundings, only the carriage waiting at the bottom of the step.
The ladies entered the compartment and took their seats. The door was closed, the step put away and Lady Catherine leaned forward to address her nephew through the open window.
"Do not disappoint me further, Fitzwilliam. I shall be waiting at your father's townhouse this evening and I'm sure he will be just as eager to see you after I have informed him of my discovery."
"Yes, Lady Catherine." The Earl's reaction to his sister's prattle was the least of his worries at the moment. All he wanted was to see his aunt and cousin well gone before Georgiana appeared.
His wish was granted. When Fitzwilliam turned back into the house his young cousin came hurrying from the side entrance.
"Wasn't that Aunt Catherine?" she asked breathlessly. "What did she want? Why did she not stay?"
"She was looking for Darcy but I told her he'd left this morning. She's gone back to London."
"London!" Georgiana exclaimed. "But he's only gone to Longbourn for the day. He should be back in a few hours."
"She didn't seem inclined to wait," Fitzwilliam offered as an excuse. "You know how she is."
"Yes, but to come all this way and then go to London instead of waiting a little while is odd even for Aunt Catherine." She shook her head, dismissing the matter. "I was informed that dinner is ready. Do you happen to know where Miss Bingley is? I haven't seen her since very early today."
Miss Bingley! Fitzwilliam was suddenly impatient to send his cousin away. "I may have seen her in the music room. I shall inform her, Georgiana. I have already changed for dinner."
She thanked him, confessing that she had lost track of time while walking in the gardens and did need to freshen up before appearing in the dining room. Georgiana went upstairs while Fitzwilliam headed for the music room.
He felt dreadful and wanted to apologise to Miss Bingley. His aim had been to frighten her, distracting her from the designs she had on Darcy. The plan had been succeeding, too, in his estimation, until that accident with her dress, followed by Lady Catherine's arrival and discovering the two of them in a most inappropriate arrangement. Now that Lady Catherine was gone and Georgiana out of the way he had a few minutes to address Miss Bingley.
The music room was empty.
Fitzwilliam frowned. It was only reasonable that she would have taken advantage of being left behind to make her escape. He supposed she was now upstairs effecting her own change of attire before returning for the evening meal. He shrugged his shoulders and left the room. The apology would have to wait until later.
***
Darcy's elation carried him through the front hall of Longbourn without noticing the servant who had barely managed to move out of his path. He paused to school his features into a less conspicuous expression when the door to the sitting room opened and Elizabeth stepped out. She started upon seeing him but just as quickly smiled and enquired in a low voice if everything was alright. Darcy's smile reappeared, assuring her that all was well.
"Your father has given his blessing, Elizabeth. Our engagement may be announced."
Elizabeth's greatest fear was that her father would be distressed by her decision and would not understand, withholding his approval of Darcy's application for her hand. "Was he.... difficult?" She struggled to find the right word.
"No." Darcy took her hands and brought them to his lips, softly kissing the backs of them. "He is already lamenting his loss while I celebrate my gain. I don't know how to thank him for creating the woman I know as Elizabeth Bennet. Much of what you are was shaped by your father and the activities you enjoyed that will now be ours to share. I know what he must be feeling for I could not bear to give you up either."
"Oh, Fitzwilliam," she sighed. "How generous you are."
"Hardly," smiled Darcy. "I have your acceptance and now your father's consent. You are essentially mine, Elizabeth, and under my protection. No-one will be allowed to come between us." While he spoke her eyes grew round and moist with emotion. Now Darcy could not resist and slowly, deliberately lowered his lips to meet hers. He savoured the sensation when they touched and felt a shiver run through Elizabeth's body. There was but a hint of the passion in the kiss they had shared earlier that day but the promise was unmistakable. The desire was also unquestionably present but Darcy released her before Elizabeth could lose sense of their surroundings.
"I do not want to go back to the others," she whispered. "I could stay like this with you forever."
Darcy drew in a deep breath to steady his pounding heart. Her words touched him to know that her feelings were so strong. "I, too, would like this moment to go on but we shall have the rest of our lives together, and propriety demands that we adhere to certain obligations." He leaned close to her ear. "I shouldn't dare to spoil your mother's joy in planning yet another wedding." He finished with a light kiss below her ear, stood straight once again and wrapped Elizabeth's left arm under his right. "We must return to them now."
"Lizzy. Mr. Darcy." Elizabeth's father stood just outside his library door, his expression a study in control. The couple turned to look at him, Elizabeth self-consciously wondering if he had witnessed their intimacy a moment earlier. Darcy had no such concern and stood proudly beside his betrothed. Mr. Bennet raised an eyebrow. "You are not married yet, son. Just remember that."
Elizabeth had no doubt now that he had, in fact, seen them kissing in the hall. She blushed and tried to avoid his eyes.
Darcy merely nodded in acknowledgement of the mild rebuke. "We were about to return to the sitting room, sir. Will you be joining us?"
"I think I will." Mr. Bennet then smiled and as he passed by his daughter said in his usual playful tone, "Should I expect any other young men to come asking to marry my other girls?"
Elizabeth blushed again. "I think they are safe for now, Papa."
"Oh, Lizzy," he said, suddenly halting outside the door. "I shall inform your mother later tonight, after the gentlemen have departed." He turned to Darcy. "If that is acceptable to you, of course."
"Whatever you think best, sir." Darcy bowed his head respectfully.
"Yes, well," Mr. Bennet coughed. "I can grant you at least one evening of peace," he muttered, opening the door.
***
He could feel her glare on him all through dinner. At least that part of my plan worked, thought Fitzwilliam. She could never have pestered Darcy while giving me the evil eye all evening.
After retiring to the saloon, however, Georgiana soon left them in order to retrieve a book she'd wished to read. Miss Bingley immediately voiced her dissatisfaction when the door clicked shut behind Miss Darcy.
"How could you!" she demanded. "How could you have let her leave thinking what she did!"
"Oh, don't be concerned about that. My father won't believe a word of it." Fitzwilliam smiled reassuringly.
"That is not what I meant!" hissed Caroline. "I couldn't care in the least what your father nor your aunt think of you. You deserve it anyway but she thinks I am an... a... a... She believes I would.. could.. You know what she thinks!" Caroline sputtered.
"Do I?" Fitzwilliam instantly regretted his poor sense of humour. "Yes, I am aware that she believes you to be a -."
"Don't say it out loud! Someone might overheard." She waved a hand at him to command his silence.
"I really think you are overreacting."
Caroline's glare burned him. "That is fine for you to say. It is not your reputation that is going to suffer."
"Neither will yours, if you think about it." The Colonel studied his fingernails as he spoke. "My aunt has no idea who you are. To her you are simply a nameless wench with whom she would prefer her nephews not associate. Would you rather I had corrected her misapprehension? I could have introduced you. Quite honestly, knowing my aunt, she would have left with the firm opinion that she'd met Miss Caroline Bingley, a half clad woman who launches herself upon rich young men. You may not have noticed but she rarely keeps her opinions to herself."
"You are abominable!"
"I'm sorry you feel that way. It was my intention to offer you an apology for my earlier conduct, however."
"The only way I shall forgive you is if you leave this house and never return!"
Fitzwilliam bowed his head in acceptance. "I understand your feelings and believe me I truly am sorry for what happened. I shall abide by your wishes and depart in the morning."
"Tonight would be better," Miss Bingley snapped. "Your aunt is expecting you, anyway."
This demand surprised him. "Her expectations are not important, really. I would prefer to leave in the morning than travel in the dark."
"And I would prefer you leave tonight." She crossed her arms in a gesture indicating that the matter was closed.
Fitzwilliam, who was truly a gentleman by nature, could not object further yet he was concerned that even this evening's disaster might not be enough to save Darcy from her attentions. Well, I tried. He'll have to look out for himself now.
Georgiana returned at that moment, putting an end to the conversation. She announced that she'd seen Mr. Bingley and her brother through the library window, riding up to the stables. All three now watched the door for one particular man to enter.
Chapter 26
Mr. Bennet seized the opportunity when the young gentlemen left and returned to his library. As expected, Elizabeth waited ten minutes before knocking on the door.
"May I come in?"
"Of course, of course," replied her father. "Would you like a glass of wine, Lizzy? We should toast your future happiness, don't you think?"
"Oh, Papa," she laughed. "I don't need a toast to ensure that I will be happy."
"You are that confident in your decision?" He sighed when she nodded her head eagerly. "Life with Mr. Darcy will be very different from your sheltered existence at Longbourn. I just don't want to see you disappointed or injured. You will be moving in circles much higher than you're accustomed. There will be many demands made upon you."
"I know, Papa." Moving around the desk, Elizabeth sank to the floor beside him and reached for his hand. "Thank you for granting your consent. I realise that my feelings came as a surprise to you but please believe that I do feel what I ought. I have not accepted Mr. Darcy merely for the security his wealth offers. He truly is a better man than I had ever dreamt of marrying."
"This is high praise indeed!" Mr. Bennet's whole expression was incredulous. "My little Lizzy was never a daydreamer, I thought. When did you ever let your imagination engage in such a fanciful direction?" Elizabeth blushed and averted her eyes. Patting her hand, her father chuckled. "Mr. Darcy is all that and more, is he? Well, I would never have guessed. You must tell me about him, Lizzy, but not tonight. It is time to break the news to your mother and you know I will need some diversion over the next few weeks as a result."
"I shall be enlisted in the planning, too." Elizabeth's eyes sparkled mischievously. "You could, of course, pursue that knowledge by canvassing the subject directly."
"An interesting notion, my dear. I shall give it some thought." He stood, lifting her to her feet as he rose. "Send your mother to me now, Lizzy." He watched her leave the room, taking with her all that remained of his composure. Now that his daughter's feelings had been confirmed Mr. Bennet allowed himself the full luxury of his own. There would be a good half hour before his wife would present herself, he knew. That time would be spent indulging melancholy reminiscences and fortifying his strength to face Mrs. Bennet's merry acknowledgment of the latest good fortune to befall their family. Heaven only knew how much sleep would be had at Longbourn this night.
***
Bingley was still professing his delight long after his friend had informed him that he was to marry Miss Elizabeth. "I knew she was just the woman for you, Darcy!"
Darcy snorted in disbelief. "Did you? Pray, tell me when you suggested it for I do not recall."
"Don't be absurd. Do you think I would ever presume to tell you what was in your best interest?"
"It is unfortunate that I could not say the same." Darcy found it difficult to summon up the necessary remorseful feelings for interfering with his friend and Miss Bennet, however. His own joy suffused every thought.
"Never mind," replied Bingley good-naturedly. "But in answer to your question, I told you here at Netherfield in your room."
Darcy looked at him, genuinely perplexed. "I honestly do not remember that."
"Well," Bingley sheepishly admitted, "you were unconscious at the time. It was only a day or two after your accident. I was sure you heard every word, though!" The two friends laughed and then fell silent for a few minutes. Bingley could not refrain from speaking when he was happy, however, and soon continued cataloguing the many advantages the two couples would experience when close friends married sisters. Darcy let him go on, uninterrupted, for Bingley no more needed his participation than Darcy needed reminding of Elizabeth's many excellent qualities. He was quite happy to reflect upon the day and particular aspects of it until they reached Netherfield itself.
Bingley's good humour waned slightly at the recollection that his sister awaited him inside. He wished that, like Darcy, he could slip away to his room without seeing her. He sighed at the impossibility of that wish. Darcy looked at him curiously.
"Caroline," was all Bingley said and his friend nodded knowingly.
Darcy had no desire to see Miss Bingley either, but it was likely that his own sister and cousin were with her and he did want to apprise them of his good news as soon as possible. If Miss Bingley was present when he delivered it then so be it. Her attentions toward him had been obvious and annoying but he did not want to cause her any distress or embarrassment, yet it would be terribly rude to ask his relations to leave the room and exclude her. Miss Bingley would hear about it sooner or later.
The house was quiet. Bingley enquired of a servant the whereabouts of his sister and guests and was directed to the saloon.
"Good evening!" he called upon seeing all three gathered therein. "Caroline, I'm sorry I neglected to inform you of my plans. I hope it did not inconvenience you at all."
"No," she surprised them all by saying. "No, Charles. I perfectly understand your wish to spend as much time as possible with Miss Bennet."
"Do you?" The words were out before he could stop them. "That is most reasonable of you." He looked at Darcy, expecting him to make his announcement.
"I must also apologise for abandoning you, Georgiana." Darcy considered how to tell them without simply blurting it out. Such momentous news deserved a more dignified introduction into the conversation.
"Nonsense, Fitzwilliam. Did you enjoy the day with Miss Elizabeth?" Georgiana brazenly threw out the name of Miss Bingley's perceived rival.
"I did." He could not suppress the smile that had been threatening since he walked into the house.
Fitzwilliam perked up at this sight. "I do hope you conveyed my greetings to her as I requested. Alas, I must leave before seeing her again."
"What!" cried Georgiana. "You said nothing of this! Why must you go?"
"Yes, why the sudden departure?" Darcy was a little disappointed that his cousin would not be there to represent the rest of the family and welcome Elizabeth into it.
"Command performance, old boy. Lady Catherine stopped by for a visit."
"I beg your pardon?" Darcy's face fell.
Georgiana nodded. "It's true. Most odd, as well."
"She was looking for you," explained the Colonel, "but I led her astray, I'm afraid. What a frightful memory I have. Told her you'd left this morning but forgot to say you'd be back. Sorry about that. She went back to Town."
"What would she be doing in London? She never stirs from Rosings except for dire emergencies."
"She mentioned visiting the Earl."
Darcy sensed there was more that Fitzwilliam wasn't prepared to say at the moment. "She wanted you to be there?"
"Well, you weren't here. I suppose one nephew is as good as the other in some instances. I think you owe me, Darcy, for sparing you this time."
"Why tonight, though?" asked Georgiana. "It would be far safer to travel by daylight. Surely you can wait until morning."
"Indeed," added Bingley. "It is ridiculous to be travelling at night when it takes so little time to get to London from here. Stay until after breakfast tomorrow, at least."
Fitzwilliam avoiding looking in Caroline's direction and so was surprised to hear her voice. "Perhaps you should listen to the others and wait."
He concealed his surprise with some effort. "Seeing as you are all in agreement I suppose I must follow your advice. Lady Catherine will be disappointed but it cannot be helped." Fitzwilliam relaxed back into his chair, smiling broadly.
Feeling it time to steer the conversation back toward Darcy's day, Bingley spoke. "I'm sorry you did not have as pleasant a time as we did." His eyes were upon Darcy, encouraging him to speak.
"Oh, do tell us about your day!" enthused Georgiana, her eyes shining. "How are Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth?"
Darcy proceeded to enlighten them, proclaiming the day to be the most important one of his life so far, to be eclipsed only on the momentous occasion of his marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. "Although that will be but the beginning, I am certain," he concluded.
His sister immediately exclaimed her delight, rushing to embrace him and to speak warmly of her friend who would now soon be her sister. Fitzwilliam approached with his congratulations after Georgiana had let him go. He clapped Darcy on the shoulder, shaking his head and saying again how his cousin owed him a turn in Lady Catherine's eye for his impeccable timing in sending her away.
"Just imagine the scene if she'd been here now!"
"A delay of the inevitable, I'm afraid. I will concede that I am heartily thankful for your interference, though." His heart was light, soaring with his emotions and impossible to contain.
"I am so pleased for you," Georgiana whispered, her excitement apparent. "At last I shall have a sister!"
Darcy took her hands in his. "So you approve of my choice? You shall like to have Elizabeth as your sister?"
"Without a doubt!" she beamed.
"I think we need something to celebrate." Bingley considered a moment and then said apologetically, "I am not sure what's in the cellar, though."
"I'll take a look," volunteered the Colonel. Bingley voiced his thanks to the retreating figure.
"I am so happy for you, Fitzwilliam," said Georgiana, drawing her brother a little aside. "I had hoped you would ask her soon."
For a moment Bingley watched brother and sister in excited conversation before turning his attention to his own sister's feelings. He knew she would be disappointed and shocked by the sudden engagements; first his and now Darcy's. That she had for some years pinned her hopes on marrying his friend was no secret to Bingley. He had always felt her ambition misplaced but to say so to Caroline was to invite an argument and, to be honest, Darcy as a brother-in-law would be most welcome. Well, he will be anyway! Except for Caroline's pain everything has turned out exceptionally well. Bingley moved to his sister's side, taking a seat next to her. "I know you must be upset by what has happened this evening."
She looked at him with alarm, wondering how he could have heard of the incident in the music room.
"You cannot blame him, though," Bingley continued in a quiet voice. "He is in love and when a man is in love with a lady, well, it's only natural."
Caroline's eyes grew rounder with each word. In love? No, he's wrong. Colonel Fitzwilliam is not in love with me. He's an unprincipled rake who took advantage of finding me alone.
"I'm sorry that your feelings are offended but I hope you will eventually be able to comfortably be in company with him when you have recovered from the shock."
"I will try, Charles." Not knowing what else to say, Miss Bingley decided on a noncommittal answer. She was of the opinion that she had already been more than civil and quite polite to him just a few minutes earlier when she would much rather have slapped him. It dismayed her to recall that Colonel Fitzwilliam would still be with them at breakfast on the morrow and she was sure to have her temper tested then.
With perfect timing, the gentleman himself reappeared, holding aloft a dusty bottle. "I have found just the thing!" he triumphantly declared. A footman followed him, carrying a tray of glasses and a cloth with which he hoped to clean the bottle should the Colonel relinquish it. "Brandy! A fine one, too. Darcy, I'm sure you must have some of this at Pemberley."
"I'm sure he does, too," said Bingley with a laugh. "That's probably one he had sent down last year while we were here." He directed the servant to open the bottle. The glasses were filled and handed out to the gentlemen. Bingley suggested a glass of wine for his sister and looked at Darcy to see if Miss Darcy was to be permitted the same for this special occasion. When he nodded an affirmative the young lady smiled in delight, eagerly accepting the glass their host offered her. She took a seat next to Miss Bingley and waited for one of the gentlemen to make the toast.
"I know it was Bingley's idea," Colonel Fitzwilliam said, looking around the room at the others' faces, "but as the lone gentleman left unspoken for I feel it falls to me to salute our friends as they prepare to embark upon married life. Congratulations to you, Bingley and to you, Darcy. May your futures be as attractive as your brides."
The men smiled but Miss Bingley frowned. "What sort of a toast is that?," she grumbled to Georgiana. "They are all blinded by a pretty face and fine eyes."
"Oh, there must be more to it than that," her young companion hesitantly suggested. "Both Jane and Elizabeth are beautiful, it's true, but they are also delightful and sweet. I'm sure Jane will win you over when she becomes your sister. Perhaps it is the suddenness of the engagements that is causing you some distress. It must have been very unexpected to arrive and find Mr. Bingley was engaged and then for my brother to so quickly do the same."
Caroline reluctantly thought that she could easily have predicted it had she not already convinced herself that both men had been safely whisked back to London at their most vulnerable moments. So much had happened. What had brought Darcy back to Hertfordshire to subsequently be followed by her own brother? It was not important now. "It is not uncommon for one engagement to result in another." She hated how bitter that sounded. Was she really so affected? Considering what had occurred not a few hours ago she really should be grateful that Darcy would be unattainable. There would be no danger in meeting Lady Catherine again and being recognised as a.... Caroline shuddered at the thought. Attempting to appear more cheerful she turned to Miss Darcy. "But you must be thoroughly delighted to be getting a new sister, Georgiana. It can be quite lonely by yourself at Pemberley, I imagine."
"Yes," replied the younger woman, a bit puzzled by her friend's reaction. She had expected disappointment, even anger, and Miss Bingley's comment about fine eyes had seemed quite resentful. However, she now appeared to have accepted her loss or was making a credible effort at putting it behind her. "Mrs. Annesley is very good and kind but I miss Fitzwilliam when he is away. He will be at home more once he is married." Georgiana briefly wondered where Caroline would be spending her time once her brother was married, too. Living with the Hursts could not be a very attractive prospect. Her friend must have been thinking the same thing.
"I'm afraid I shall be more in the way in Charles' house. My usefulness as a hostess will be over." Miss Bingley took Georgiana's hand reassuringly. "You need not worry that you will ever be in the way at Pemberley, though. My situation is quite different from yours."
"Will you move into Mr. Hurst's home?"
Caroline was touched by Miss Darcy's obvious concern. "It is too early for me to make any decisions. Certainly I may stay with them for a while. Perhaps I will set up my own home, hire a companion." She nearly laughed at Georgiana's wide-eyed reaction. "It is not so very shocking as it sounds and especially at my age."
"You are not so very old," protested Georgiana in a whisper lest the gentlemen overhear. "Besides, did you not say that one engagement very often results in another?" Her shy smile did not deceive Miss Bingley but she couldn't help glancing at Colonel Fitzwilliam all the same.
"There is no need to fear that happening. Your cousin is quite safe." I shall be glad to see the back of him in the morning.
Miss Darcy was less convinced of the futility of this notion. She had not been oblivious to the strange looks the two had shared over dinner and later in this very room. She didn't quite understand it all but a fervent imagination, lately fuelled by the romance in the Hertfordshire air, led her to contemplate the possibility of a third proposal being imminent.
Chapter 27
"I do not have time for this. What does he want? Oh, never mind. I'm sure it's trifling. How am I ever to get Jane's wedding organised with these constant interruptions?" Mrs. Bennet paused for breath, allowing Elizabeth to get in a word.
"Mama-."
"Oh, don't fret so, Lizzy. You know I won't keep him waiting long. It's not as if he'll be displeased with you. I daresay he'll understand that some tasks cannot be abandoned at the drop of a hat whenever he summons me." Mrs. Bennet giggled. "Jane's wedding will be the event of the year! Lady Lucas may have married off her Charlotte before any of my girls but not half so advantageously. And what a haphazard job it was, too! Oh, I knew Jane would make an exceptional match! Now, where was I?" She bent her head to her mission again while Elizabeth sighed.
A short time later Mrs. Bennet announced to the room that she would now see to what her husband wanted. Elizabeth's eyes followed her mother's figure as she left the room, excited that her happiness would soon be made known but apprehensive of the form that parent's reaction would take.
Accustomed to her husband's lack of interest in all things related to the marital prospects of their daughters, Mrs. Bennet was surprised by his first words upon her entrance to his sanctuary.
"How is the wedding planning progressing?"
He could not have flustered her more. "It is quite - have you any idea....? No, well let me explain.... Have you decided upon a sum for Jane's wedding clothes? I should like to take her to London for the fabrics. You know how remote we are when it comes to fashion. There is absolutely nothing tolerable in Meryton!"
"Ah, yes." Mr. Bennet steepled his fingers and looked at her over the tips as he rested them against his nose. "You might want to consider waiting a little longer before you go to town."
"Wait?" his wife cried, incredulous with the audacity of the suggestion. "That would serve no useful purpose, Mr. Bennet! It would only hinder the preparations. How could we even begin to coordinate the details if Jane's trousseau has not been selected?"
A solitary raised eyebrow met this remark. "Am I to understand that our daughter will not be taking any of her existing possessions when she marries? Is the intention to purchase all new items?"
Mrs. Bennet's mouth fell open in astonishment. "Well, of course everything must be new! You may not care if Jane is sent to Netherfield in any old rag from her wardrobe but I most certainly do!" One hand threatened to bring a handkerchief to her face.
"Well," replied her husband, undecided whether a fortnight of peace and quiet was worth the pain of economising an overspent account during the course of the next several months, "if that be the case then it is perhaps best that you know now, rather than later. You may take both girls to London to shop for their trousseaus together."
"Both girls?" She blinked and shook her head, refusing to believe the implication.
"The reason I called you in here, my dear, was to tell you that I've had another application for the hand of one of our daughters. Of course, if you wait another week before going to London we might be able to have them all engaged before you leave."
The sarcasm was wasted on Mrs. Bennet. Her eyes were as round as saucers with the light of avarice. "Mr. Darcy," she breathed.
Her perceptiveness surprised him. "Yes, Mr. Darcy. I did not realise you were aware of his interest."
She waved him off with her handkerchief. "It was obvious but I don't suppose you men notice things like that. Mr. Darcy was quite preoccupied with her!"
Mr. Bennet recalled the scenes he had witnessed between the young couple and decided that preoccupied did not do justice that gentleman's state of mind.
"Oh, just think what this will mean!" his wife twittered. "What jewels, what gowns! Carriages such that we will never want for a comfortable means to get to London!"
"We? He is not marrying all of us, my dear woman!"
"Oh, but that signifies nothing!" Mrs. Bennet was impatient with the obtuseness of her husband. "Ten thousand a year! Mr. Bingley is a fine young man but Mr. Darcy will be able to provide for us all so much better. Just think of the wealthy men our other girls will be privileged to meet! You may be right, Mr. Bennet," she nodded with one finger poised in the air. "It may not be long before all of them could be most advantageously married!" She continued on in the same manner while Mr. Bennet was distracted by the thought of a house emptied of his daughters, with only his silly wife for company. He was brought back to the present as Mrs. Bennet was preparing to leave the room. "I must go to her, now. Oh, has Mr. Darcy asked her yet?"
"What? Oh, yes. She has accepted him already. You need not worry on that point."
Mrs. Bennet sighed dramatically. "Oh, that is a relief! I would hate to think she might refuse him. After all my instructions to them about how to attract such a desirable match, to let one's feelings get in the way of such an important decision would be ridiculous. I can imagine Lizzy would do that just to vex me!" Her frown quickly disappeared and was replaced with a delighted smile. "A double wedding! It simply must be a double wedding! This will be the most important day of the year in Meryton!"
Nearing the end of his patience, her husband said, "You are presuming that Mr. Darcy will not insist on marrying in London."
"London!" Aghast at the thought, Mrs. Bennet immediately negated it. "No, no. The wedding will be here, in Meryton, where all of our friends may attend! They cannot go to London for it."
"I'm sure that Mr. Darcy's many friends and relations will more easily be accommodated in Town."
"Nonsense! There is plenty of room at Netherfield and there is always the inn at -."
"My good woman, you may discuss this with the pertinent parties at your leisure but for now I ask that you leave me to mine." There was much to be considered with regard to settlements and provisions for his daughters before they would leave Longbourn, becoming wives of prominent gentlemen. "Perhaps you could share the news with the rest of the household."
No encouragement was necessary for Mrs. Bennet to perform this task. She happily left his company, calling out in her distinctive voice, "Hill! Hill! Where is Lydia? Oh, Lizzy, where are your sisters? Mary, Kitty, Jane! Come at once!"
The ladies assembled in the sitting room where their mother proceeded to confuse them with her disjointed babbling. Only Elizabeth knew what she was trying to say but was more embarrassed by the manner of its communication to her sisters and particularly to Jane, whom she had not had the opportunity to privately inform. When Mrs. Bennet began to commend her youngest for making the most of the advice she'd been doling out to them all, Elizabeth's attention was captured once more.
"Girls, you must all take a lesson from Lydia. There will be many opportunities for you to meet young rich men now that your sisters will be introducing you into society."
Lydia was also looking at her mother in confusion. When Mrs. Bennet smiled at her youngest and began to extol the advantages of becoming Mrs. Darcy, she grew alarmed. Elizabeth's refusal of Mr. Collins had been a good joke the previous year but Lydia's horror at the idea that her mother would not only encourage such an unpleasant man's attentions toward one of her daughters but that it appeared the daughter of choice was herself, served to paralyse her so that she could merely stare in silent fear and hope it was all a nightmare.
Jane was the one to speak up. "What are you telling us, Mama? What about Mr. Darcy?"
"Were you not listening, Jane?" Mrs. Bennet impatiently replied. "Mr. Darcy has asked for Lydia's hand! Is that not wonderful?"
Elizabeth jumped to her feet. "No, Mama, you are mistaken!"
Her mother stared in amazement. "Lizzy, it is wonderful news! There is no mistaking that! How can you say otherwise? Just think what it means for you and Mary and Kitty. You will all find rich husbands now!"
"No, Mama," insisted her least favourite daughter. "Mr. Darcy does not want to marry Lydia. You have misunderstood!"
Silence filled the room. All eyes were on Elizabeth, her unexpected outburst shocking the others.
"I suppose you think he would rather have you?" Mrs. Bennet's shrill voice rang out. "Well, Miss Lizzy, you had best stop being so selfish. How many times have I given you advice but you reject it? What would you know of it? You don't even like Mr. Darcy!"
Elizabeth's emotions hampered her ability to speak. She wanted to laugh at her mother's ridiculous notions and to cry with the frustration of her real feelings for Darcy being unrecognised. "That's not true," she managed to stammer. "Please, Mama. You must have misunderstood something Papa said. Mr. Darcy made me an offer earlier today and I have accepted him."
Again there was silence until Mrs. Bennet had absorbed the full meaning of what she'd just heard. "Well, if Mr. Darcy has proposed to you, Lizzy, then I can only say I am very pleased that you did not choose to send him away like you did with Mr. Collins." Her mind was busily engaged in retracing the conversation in her husband's library.
Jane smiled encouragingly at her sister, distressed with the awkward circumstances of announcing her engagement but pleased for her nonetheless. She was determined to soothe Lizzy's anguish when they could speak privately before retiring. At the moment, all she could do was attempt to lessen the sting of their mother's barbed tongue. "I am so happy for you, Lizzy! I know that Charles will be, too."
Her sister's words were a comfort and the knowledge that Darcy would likely be informing his friend of his situation also brought a warmth to the cold threatening to grip her heart whenever Mrs. Bennet spoke. "Thank you, Jane." She noticed Mary offering a tentative smile and thanked her as well. Kitty was still too shocked to do more than stare from one sister to another, astounded by Lydia's silence on the subject.
A sudden outburst made them all jump.
"Lizzy! We must begin planning first thing in the morning. It will be better to make arrangements for both weddings at the same time. That is, you don't want to marry the same day, do you? It would be a shame to have only one celebration when we can have two." Mrs Bennet was growing more excited by the minute, her previous error completely forgotten. "No, it must be two weddings and two celebrations for friends and family. Oh, but Mr. Darcy can arrange for a special licence so we'd best be ready to travel to London as soon as may be! I will not have either of you walk down the aisle in anything but the finest and I'm certain the gentlemen will agree." She left her seat to pace about the room, listing aloud all the shops they would visit. Finally she dismissed her daughters to go to bed, reminding the two eldest that the next morning was already accounted for and she expected to see them right after breakfast.
Jane followed Elizabeth to her room where the two sat on the bed, at first grinning at each other wordlessly, then Jane reached out to pull her sister into a warm embrace. "I wasn't sure you would accept him, Lizzy, nor that Mr. Darcy would ask you a second time but Charles was certain his friend wouldn't give up trying to win you." She released Elizabeth and looked at her seriously. "I'm so sorry that Mama got it all wrong."
Elizabeth stifled a giggle, amused and relieved at the same time. A soft knock at the door interrupted them and Lydia peered into the room.
"Lizzy, may I come in?"
"Of course," replied Elizabeth. She patted the blankets to invite Lydia to sit but was at a loss for anything to say.
"Lizzy, have you really agreed to marry Mr. Darcy?" Lydia's eyes were round with wonder as Elizabeth eagerly confirmed it. "I was so afraid when Mama was talking that she had made this arrangement without my knowledge and I'd end up like you did when Mr. Collins proposed. I'm so glad it's you marrying him and not me," she concluded, oblivious to the rudeness of her remark.
Elizabeth ignored it. "I am glad, too."
"Well," said Lydia, moving toward the door. "That's all I came to say. Goodnight, Lizzy. Goodnight, Jane."
"Goodnight, Lydia," the other two said, waiting until the door was closed before succumbing to their laughter.
***
Breakfast at Netherfield was unusually quiet the next morning. Bingley and Darcy, preoccupied with thoughts of the prior day and musings on the one to come, had little to add to any attempt at conversation by the Colonel or Miss Darcy. Both of the cousins were amused by the young gentlemen's behaviour and shared a look across the table more than once. Miss Bingley also seemed reluctant to participate and so it was that the sudden arrival from the hallway surprised them all.
The Colonel hastily swallowed his mouthful of tea. "Father!"
"Oh, don't get up," the Earl of Matlock put out his hand to stay the others from rising, all the while keeping his gaze fixed upon his son. "I apologise for interrupting your morning repast. A family matter necessitated my trip here. When you are finished," he said to Fitzwilliam, "I would like a private word with you."
The Colonel knew exactly what had brought his father all this way in the earliest hours of the morning to arrive at Netherfield before breakfast had been cleared. He'd not believed it possible that the Earl of Matlock should put credence in the scurrilous gossip of his sister, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, but his very presence seemed to decry that. A distraction seemed to be on order. "Your timing is very good, actually. Darcy shared some news with us last night."
The Earl's eyebrows rose and he looked in his nephew's direction. "Oh?"
Darcy placed his cup carefully in its saucer. "I am engaged to be married, sir."
A slight frown briefly crossed the elder Fitzwilliam's brow, then disappeared. "This is unexpected. Do we know the lady?"
Suddenly realising his error, the Colonel grimaced. "I think you may have misapprehended the situation."
His father silenced him with a look well known from childhood. Turning his attention back to Darcy, the Earl posed his question again. "Who is the fortunate lady, nephew?" He glanced at the two ladies present, one of whom was his niece. The other, although fashionable and obviously of money, did not strike him as having recently been so blessed as to capture a wealthy young husband. "On second thought, let us wait to discuss this, as well."
Fitzwilliam met Darcy's eye and confirmed that he, too, was apprehensive about this pending discussion. The Colonel, however, had a better idea of what it might entail. Lady Catherine's threat was all too clear in his mind. He pushed his cup away and prepared to stand. "I have done if you wish to -."
His father shook his head and smiled, pulling out a chair for himself. "If I may, a cup of coffee would be appreciated."
"Of course!" Bingley promptly replied, nodding to a footman to bring a cup and the pot. Fitzwilliam fidgeted, his fingers drumming on the tabletop beside his plate. Miss Bingley watched him with amusement, the only other person present with knowledge of what likely awaited him. Her entertainment and his frustration grew as the minutes stretched on, the Earl finding a great deal of inconsequential information to impart. At last he indicated it was time to complete the business which had brought him to Netherfield. Bingley offered the use of his study which was gratefully accepted and the three men excused themselves.
Fitzwilliam, preferring to have had the opportunity to speak with his father in private, without Darcy present, was reluctant to begin. This was irrelevant to the Earl, however.
"I have no doubt that you know what brings me here." He noted the way his son's gaze fell but Darcy's was genuinely perplexed. "Your aunt saw fit to pay me a visit and relate her concerns, as you can imagine is her wont to do. I do not, as a rule, put much stock in her ravings but I am not the only audience she seeks. Your mother was less sanguine in her reception of this information and thus Catherine found a willing ear." His expression grew more forbidding. "Darcy, I had no idea that you were seriously seeking a wife. There has been no whispering amongst the ton this Season. In light of this surprise engagement I am inclined to wonder what truth there is behind my your aunt's complaints. Who is this woman, Darcy? Please assure me that she is not a trollop such as the one Catherine claims has won my son's attention."
"A trollop, sir?" Shock and outrage struggled for control in Darcy's mind. He stared at his cousin, wondering what had occurred to give Lady Catherine the notion that the Colonel had been entertaining women of questionable repute but his indignation with the implied insult to Elizabeth's character, regardless of his uncle's ignorance, took precedence. "If it is assurance you seek then I gladly offer it. No such women will find company here."
"Your father was a good man, Darcy, but you've been without his guidance for several years now. Every young man commits some foolishness. It's inevitable. If you have made a mistake it can be rectified, discreetly." The Earl's stern gaze focussed on his own son. "If you have embroiled your cousin in a scrape as a result of a night of drinking you will sorely regret it."
"It is nothing of the sort, Uncle," said Darcy in a tone he'd never before used to address his elder. "Miss Bennet is a gentleman's daughter and a true lady in every sense of the word. There is no cause for criticism of her, nor will I permit it."
The Earl was silent while he digested Darcy's words. When he spoke at last, it was in a guarded manner. "I hope to find your opinion confirmed when I meet Miss Bennet. When may I have the honour?"
"This morning, if you have no objection to travelling again." Darcy continued following his uncle's acceptance of the arrangement. "Bingley and I were planning to leave in another half hour."
Looking down at his dusty attire, the Earl shrugged. "I trust I'll not embarrass you with my appearance."
Darcy was satisfied that his uncle would not speak in his earlier degrading terms once he was introduced to Elizabeth. Having cautioned him already that no disrespect toward his betrothed would be tolerated, Darcy knew that the Earl would keep his counsel and was equally confident that he would find no objection the lady in question.
Chapter 28
Darcy had left his cousin and uncle without a thought for what had originally promoted the latter's appearance at Netherfield. His only concern was to ensure that all members of the party would be ready on time. To this end he sought out his coachmen to let them know that the carriage would be required to convey them all to Longbourn, rather than the two gentlemen going on horseback as had been planned.
Richard Stanley Fitzwilliam, Earl of Matlock, now turned to his son for an explanation. "What have you to say? Is there any truth in your aunt's accusations?"
The Colonel drew his shoulders back, assuming a position of attention. "Exactly what has she said?"
His father's mouth turned up at one corner in a sly smile. "She claims to have interrupted a potentially intimate encounter between you and a half-dressed young woman."
"I am sure it looked that way to her. In reality the situation was much different." Fitzwilliam's chin rose and he stared straight ahead.
"Is that so?" Something in the older man's tone demanded elaboration.
Unprepared for the required recitation Fitzwilliam had to quickly decide how much he could reveal without compromising Miss Bingley's reputation. "Firstly," he said, "she was not half-dressed. The young lady's gown had suffered a mishap."
"Those types of mishaps are not all that uncommon, I understand."
"I was actually attempting to help her repair the damage when Aunt Catherine walked in," continued the Colonel, ignoring the provocation.
"Such a chivalrous young man," his father blandly commented, expression unchanged.
"It was completely innocuous!"
The Earl tipped his head forward to gaze at his son from under raised eyebrows. "That can hardly be the case."
Sighing, Fitzwilliam said, "Alright, I'll tell you the whole truth of it."
"At last." The other man crossed his arms and waited.
"She was playing the piano and I was turning the pages of the music. When she rose from the bench it seems that the edge of her skirts was trapped under my boot and .... apparently some stitching came undone with the effort to free it." His face reflected his embarrassment at the recollection.
The Earl stifled a laugh, allowing himself to drily observe, "I must ascertain the name of the seamstress to ensure that your mother never commissions any purchases from there."
Relief spread over the Colonel's features. "I thought you had taken this seriously," he smiled.
"Oh, I have and I do, son. Do not mistake my amusement for dismissal of the possible consequences of your actions, be they deliberate or accidental. There will be consequences." Shaking his head, he took a seat behind the large desk and motioned Fitzwilliam to sit as well. "You have not mentioned the young woman's name and for that I commend you. Unless I am mistaken, however, there are only two members of the fairer sex in this house. That is assuming the woman in question has not been spirited away or secreted somewhere else. It leaves me with but one candidate for the picture you aunt has painted and, quite frankly, I do not see her in the role. I refer to the young lady whom neither you nor my nephew saw fit to introduce to me!" The Colonel began sputtering a reply but his father waved him to silence. "Never mind. That oversight will be remedied before we depart with Darcy and his friend."
"We?"
"Yes, of course. You didn't expect me to let you remain here, did you?"
Fitzwilliam was disconcerted. "What about Georgiana?"
"She will accompany us. It shall be a family outing." The Earl's eyes narrowed. "There is no other reason for her to require a chaperone here, is there?"
Quickly shaking his head, Fitzwilliam suggested they inform Georgiana of her inclusion in the party to allow her time to change if she so desired. His father agreed, most interested in getting another look at the mysterious young woman whose name was still unknown to him.
***
Elizabeth awoke with a lingering unsettled feeling. Vague impressions remained from her dreams; a sense of frustration and disappointment. In an effort to dispel it she contemplated how many hours it would be before Mr. Darcy arrived. She then calculated the minutes and was about to move onto the seconds when her mother's voice rose above the soft stirring of the household.
"Mr. Bennet! Where are you?"
A low voice replied in a more moderate volume, no words distinguishable. There was a brief exchange between the two during which Elizabeth chose her attire and began to dress. In another half hour she joined Jane downstairs in the breakfast room and they waited for the rest of the family. When their mother entered the room both Elizabeth and Jane had to smile, turning away from the door to see each other's reaction. Mrs. Bennet had selected what would normally be one of her best gowns, reserved for a ball, and completed the effect with her pearl necklace. It was a most unusual sight at that hour of the day, sure to evoke a comment from her husband.
"Have I mistaken the time?" He took out his watch and held it to his ear. "No, I have not." He made no other comment, merely waiting for a reaction.
His wife would not be provoked, however. "When the gentlemen arrive we may get straight to the point, Lizzy. You must ask Mr. Darcy whether he prefers to be married in London or here. Once that is decided we can work on the details."
"I'm sure that's just what he has in mind for his visit," Mr. Bennet drily interjected. He was unable to find satisfaction throughout breakfast as Mrs. Bennet was unobliging with her replies. That only encouraged him to turn his attention toward his youngest daughters and see that Lydia was far from her usual silly self. "Are you not inclined to visit Meryton this morning, Lydia?"
She looked down the length of the table at her father. Escape was inviting, particularly in light of the previous evening's error on her mother's part. Lydia had no desire to be exposed to Mr. Darcy's preferences; the thought that she might have been subject to them instead of Lizzy was still too fresh. Unfortunately, town had also lost its appeal since Mr. Wickham's downfall. Again Mr. Darcy was responsible for her feelings on that subject for it was he who had opened her mind to the suggestion that there was something to fear in the officer's attentions.
The window behind Mr. Bennet afforded an unobstructed view of the drive leading up to Longbourn's front doors. At any moment, Lydia feared, the forbidding Mr. Darcy would appear and although his time would primarily be spent sequestered with her mother and Lizzy, just the thought of being in the house with him made her nervous. What if he spoke to her of Mr. Wickham again? What had he intended by his remark about him being capable of stealing more than her heart? She thought she knew what he meant and the notion was shocking, indeed! Whether she was more shocked by the thought of Mr. Wickham behaving in such a manner or Mr. Darcy's veiled suggestion wasn't clear. There was, however, only one avenue available to question and Lydia intended to speak with her sister about it.
Kitty's voice broke through her preoccupation, explaining that Maria had invited them to see the new fabrics and lace Lady Lucas had ordered from London. Lydia was relieved to be spared from answering, herself; Mr. Bennet was now sufficiently disinterested in pursuing the topic.
When at last breakfast was over Mrs. Bennet shooed her eldest daughters upstairs for a serious discussion while her other girls and her husband went about their own business. Elizabeth consulted the clock immediately upon entering her mother's rooms, beginning again to calculate the minutes before Mr. Darcy would rescue her.
***
Caroline felt his gaze upon her and experienced a flush of anger. Her amusement had vanished when the three gentlemen left the room, replaced by an anxiousness that any anonymity she may have possessed would soon be gone. Charles had paid no attention except to his breakfast but Georgiana's curiosity was evident. Miss Bingley appeared as unconcerned as possible.
When father and son returned, the younger Fitzwilliam performed the introductions that were lacking beforehand. The Earl politely bowed, acknowledging Miss Bingley with a friendly smile.
There is nothing impertinent about him, unlike his son, she mused. She briefly wondered if there was a current Lady Matlock but then he turned away and addressed Charles.
After complimenting his host on his choice of estate, the Earl turned to his niece. "Your brother has invited me along to visit Miss Bennet this morning. It would be pleasant to have your company as well, Georgiana."
The prospect delighted her and she willingly agreed, although any suggestion from her uncle would have resulted in the same reply for Georgiana was quite unable to refuse such a formidable figure. Fortunately it gave her a reason to escape the room to change and collect her things.
Bingley soon followed, excusing himself with the implication that his sister had no need to abandon them as she was not leaving the house. With that he disappeared through the doorway.
The Earl's head slowly turned to face Miss Bingley and with a most disarming smile he requested permission to sit down.
The Colonel shifted from one foot to the other. "I think I'll just -."
His father made a quick gesture with his arm, his son immediately collapsing into a chair. Miss Bingley's eyes widened in surprise but when the older gentleman's steady gaze found her, anger sent colour to her cheeks. She was not in a position to speak, unfortunately. A lack of knowing just what the Earl knew or suspected prolonged her silence.
"I apprehend that you have recently made the acquaintance of my sister, Lady Catherine de Bourgh." He noted the flush in her face drain away. "Fear not, Miss Bingley. My bite is not as severe despite my son's current performance. Firstly, I will apologise for my sister's offenses. I'm sure there was more than one. Please do not be concerned for her opinion. It carries no weight with me and fortunately, she has no notion of your identity, therefore your name will not be ruined by any chance of Catherine's gossip." Knowing what had been said to himself to describe the young lady, the Earl wasn't entirely confident that his words were enough to placate her. "Secondly, I will apologise for my son's transgressions."
"Father!" protested Fitzwilliam.
"Miss Bingley," the Earl continued, disregarding the interruption. "Does your brother know about any of this?"
Caroline was genuinely puzzled; did Charles know? She looked at the Colonel, trying to decide if her brother's words of the previous evening were intended to describe him. She shook her head.
"Well," said the Earl, mistaking her motion for an answer. "That is encouraging. Pistols at dawn would cast rather a pall over the recent pleasant events. Not that I am making light of the situation, by any means. Before involving your brother, however, I wish to know where you stand, Miss Bingley. If my son has placed your reputation in jeopardy then amends must be made. You need not answer immediately, of course. We shall return in a few hours so you shall have some time to consider the matter."
Caroline managed to convey a sense of gratitude and excused herself from their company. Thoughts whirled around her head as she walked aimlessly through the hallway until she reached a quiet parlour.
Colonel Fitzwilliam could sit no longer. He jumped up from his chair and leaned both hands on the table to face his father eye to eye. "You cannot be serious! You've practically offered me to her on a plate!"
His father's lips twitched. "You seem alarmed at the prospect."
"The prospect is marriage to a woman who is willing to entrap Darcy despite his disinterest in her. In fact, he was noticeably interested in another lady! I cannot believe you would reward her efforts by making her my wife!"
"Her efforts are only half of the story," the Earl reminded him. "I am disappointed in you. If Miss Bingley's designs were so apparent you should have known better than to put yourself in a position of vulnerability. Had anyone else but your aunt discovered you in that room, under such circumstances, we would not now be awaiting the lady's choice of conclusions to the affair. Consider yourself fortunate."
"Fortunate?" Fitzwilliam laughed mirthlessly. "There was no-one in a position to have discovered anything. Only Lady Catherine's habit of interfering in Darcy's life brought her here to interfere in mine."
A deep frown formed on the Earl's face. All evidence of amusement vanished, his tone becoming solemn. "For once in my life I am grateful for my sister showing up unwanted and without warning. What a fool I have for a son! Did it never occur to you that Darcy did not need your help to keep Miss Bingley at bay? He's managed quite well for several years. There is not a mother in London who hasn't been left frustrated by his ability to escape romantic entanglements with their daughters. I can't imagine what you could accomplish better than he has already. Kind as your intentions were, it would have been of greater benefit if you thought first and took action later. Impulsive behaviour may be of use on the battlefield, son, but not in the boudoir."
Colonel Fitzwilliam was silent, his face reddening. He had a great respect for the Earl and this was not the first time he'd been on the receiving end of one of his rebukes. Not once could he claim to be wrongfully addressed but the accusation was too much this time. "Forgive me if I speak out of turn, sir. The situation as you would have it implies a great deal more than what really happened. We were not in her boudoir nor did I entertain any thoughts in that direction!"
"You are my son but you are also a man. There is nothing to regret in speaking to me as one." His tone softened. "Do you object so strongly to the young lady?"
Fitzwilliam sighed. "I hardly know her. Her opinion of me is based on the events of last night, I'm sure. What a frightful start for any marriage."
His father smiled to himself. The lesson would be well learned with no permanent damage. He had seen the look in the lady's eyes at the intimation of marriage between herself and his son. The decision was hers but the Earl was confident that she would reject the option. There was no need to tell his son that, however.
Chapter 29
"Welcome to Longbourn, my Lord," fluttered Mrs. Bennet, the few words costing her tremendous effort. The Earl thanked her and stood by his chair waiting for the ladies to be seated. Mrs. Bennet suddenly recollected herself and urged her daughters to sit down, quickly dropping into her own chair.
Introductions had been made, Mr. Darcy performing them in light of Mrs. Bennet's sudden incapacity. His uncle had raised an eyebrow in surprise upon seeing the number of ladies present when they entered the room. There appeared to be a significant difference between the eldest and the youngest of the sisters, however; a difference that did not go unnoticed. Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth seemed to own polished manners and genteel modesty and this gave the Earl some relief. His confidence in Darcy's good sense remaining intact was bolstered with Miss Elizabeth's first words.
"It is an honour and a pleasure to make your acquaintance, sir. I hope that your sudden arrival was not due to disquieting news."
She may well have been referring to her unexpected engagement to his nephew but the Earl considered the possibility of an innocent concern for her betrothed's relations. "Our family is well, thank you. I had some business with my son but was surprised to learn of Darcy's engagement when I arrived. Congratulations, Miss Bennet. I look forward to learning more about you." He bowed his head respectfully. Elizabeth was not misled by his politeness into thinking he approved. It was too early for that. She was aware that her family's situation was not ideal for a man of Darcy's position and the Earl of Matlock was hardly likely to ignore this fact any more than Darcy had in the beginning of their acquaintance. She could only hope that her mother would not prove an embarrassment for the duration of this visit. "Do I understand correctly that your sister is engaged to Darcy's friend?"
Elizabeth confirmed his information, very much aware of Darcy's silent wariness beside her. That he was anxious about his uncle's opinion was clear, but she was more concerned for the effect on Darcy should the Earl conclude that his choice was not good enough. "Jane and Mr. Bingley are very well suited and I'm sure will be very happy together."
"Forgive my curiosity but tell me how you met my nephew. We have not had the opportunity for anything more than him imparting the news. Have you known him long?" Despite Darcy's readiness to intervene at the first indication of offense, the Earl gently pressed for this information, important as it was for his understanding of the arrangement.
Elizabeth glanced quickly in Darcy's direction, partly to gauge his feelings about his uncle's inquisition and also as a subtle request to proceed, for she wished to assure him that her words would be most carefully chosen. Darcy acknowledged he with an equally subtle movement of his head, an exchange which the Earl did not fail to notice.
"I understand your concern, sir," Elizabeth began, neither intimidated nor offended by his expression of feigned disbelief. "Your nephew is a very eligible catch for any woman. I consider myself honoured to have inspired such attachment in him for I have nothing to bring to this match but a sincere return of his affection." Her courage slipped a little with the bold honesty of her words, colour rising in her cheeks, and Elizabeth's gaze fell to the hands folded in her lap. She prayed that her mother would remain silent and was anxious to know the Earl's thoughts.
Darcy faced his uncle triumphantly, reaching with one hand to take Elizabeth's, communicating his pride in her strength and love. The Earl was impressed; with Miss Bennet's impertinence and seeming sincerity. She was an intelligent woman, that much was apparent. Intelligent, handsome, polite and possibly genuine in her feelings for Darcy. He was, after all, more than just the sum of his accounts. Fiercely loyal and protective of those he loved, Darcy could not fail to capture the heart of any lady fortunate enough to capture his. Whether the affection of either party would last more than a fortnight remained to be seen. However, the Earl knew his nephew well enough to put to rest any thought of dissuading him from this marriage. Darcy could afford, financially, to ally himself with a penniless woman. His standing in society would suffer but this would mean nothing to him. Darcy disliked the social activities preferred by the ton. Hopefully Mrs. Darcy would understand and respect her husband's desires. If not, she would find herself in a very unpleasant situation, for Darcy would not permit any contravention of his orders. Appearances would be kept up. He knew his duty. The Earl hoped Miss Elizabeth knew hers.
"An excellent start to marriage, Miss Bennet," he smiled. "I am sure that Darcy and you will build on that, passing on the best of values to your children."
Elizabeth noted his indirect reminder of her importance in relation to Darcy's when the Earl named him ahead of herself; a distinction of rank even in this casual situation. She suppressed a feeling of irritation, knowing his remarks were calculated to elicit just such a reaction. There was safety in retreating to a show of maidenly modesty. "Of course I shall do my best with any children and I'm sure that my husband will be an excellent father, too." The Earl only smiled which irritated her further.
"It is a little premature to be speaking of children," said Darcy, although his mind considered the idea with some pleasure.
His uncle gave him a look of surprise. "You amaze me, Darcy. Did you learn nothing at your father's knee? The purpose of marriage is for the production of children, particularly for a man in your position." Elizabeth's cheeks were glowing brighter by the second, yet the Earl continued. "Understandably you are likely preoccupied with other matters at present but you must keep the future in mind when making your decisions."
"I assure you," bristled Darcy, "that the future is never far from my thoughts." His fingers tightened around Elizabeth's to remind himself that she was real and to remind her that his constancy would not be compromised by an irascible relation. He was pleased to feel her fingers respond. "However, I do not think this is an appropriate time or place to discuss it."
"Quite right," his uncle smiled again rather condescendingly. "Forgive me, Miss Bennet, if I offended you."
Elizabeth accepted his apology but not without scepticism. There was something about the Earl which defied her ability to discern. On one hand he seemed to approve of her while in the next moment his words and look appeared to disregard her feelings as inconsequential. She wondered if it was the fact that Lady Catherine was his sister that inspired this interpretation for Elizabeth was no stranger to that lady's idiosyncrasies. Whatever the reason behind the Earl's strange behaviour it was evident that Darcy would not permit it to dampen his own happiness and was trying very hard to make sure it did not interfere with hers.
Mrs. Bennet was too awestruck to do more than stare and, impolite as it was, her daughter was relieved that it was left at that. The Earl may have noticed but said nothing about it, at least. He did make some remark about the plentiful number of ladies in the room, a comment which made even Miss Darcy colour in confusion and Colonel Fitzwilliam grow alarmed, but Darcy drew his attention away from that topic by addressing his lady's mother with an enquiry about her husband.
"Oh!" replied a flustered Mrs. Bennet. "He has gone out to see a tenant about some matter that could not wait, apparently. He did not anticipate being very long so I expect him to return at any minute." She bestowed a vapid smile upon the Earl before remembering the question she had intended for Darcy earlier that morning. "My dear Mr. Darcy, I do require something of you today."
Eager to continue a discussion which would keep his uncle's attention away from more dangerous topics, Darcy attempted to appear seriously interested in whatever she had to say. "If I may be of service, madam, please ask."
"Well," said Mrs. Bennet, glancing toward Elizabeth as if to remind herself what it was she wished to say, "it is just that, before we may proceed any further with the wedding details, I must know where you wish to be married? Will it be in London or from here or perhaps from your own home estate in Derbyshire?"
This detail had not occurred to Darcy and he had no immediate answer. In truth it mattered not at all to him where the wedding would take place as long as Elizabeth married him, sooner rather than later. He looked to her for some direction even as he spoke. "I... we have not yet decided. Do you have a preference?"
Mrs. Bennet was quick to reply, little understanding the question was directed at her daughter. She preened herself, imagining the honour of choosing was now hers. "London would allow us the luxury of all the finest suppliers to browse for Lizzy's dress and trousseau, of course. Yet it would be lovely to see your grand estate for who knows when we might be able to travel that way again. It could be months! Then there is the family to consider. If you marry here, in Meryton, all of our family and friends will be able to attend." She suddenly recollected the Earl's presence. "Oh! Your own family is mostly up North, are they not? Would it not be better for them if the wedding is in Derbyshire? Such a dilemma!" she fretted.
"No," Darcy said, coming to a decision. "I prefer Meryton. Elizabeth, would you not like to be married from your own home?" If his family objected to his choice of bride they would not attend no matter where the wedding took place.
"Yes," she quietly affirmed. "Thank you." She did not need to complete the thought for him to understand. Darcy was pleased to realise that he had correctly interpreted her feelings.
Well then," continued Mrs. Bennet as if nothing had interrupted her monologue. "That is settled. We can start planning in earnest now." Nevertheless she stopped talking, seemingly waiting for someone else to begin.
It was Mary who spoke up to offer an appropriate quote for the occasion which only caused Kitty to roll her eyes, Colonel Fitzwilliam to politely look the other way and the Earl to frown, baffled by the sudden turn in the conversation. Elizabeth successfully ignored it all, inured to the eccentricities of her family and faithfully placing her trust in Darcy to deal with his own relations.
***
An hour had passed with no clear answer for Miss Bingley. The news of Mr. Darcy's engagement was still fresh, the shock of his cousin's behaviour the previous night overriding any feelings she would naturally have experienced upon the realisation that all of her hopes and dreams had come to naught so suddenly. Her head was filled with the Earl's voice; what exactly did he mean about 'making amends'? Did he seriously believe that she wanted to marry his son!
Such mortification had never been in the realm of Miss Bingley's experience until her gown had betrayed her and left no question of her intentions in wearing it. Not that she had hoped for the seams to let go, nor for her reputation to be tattered even should Darcy have been the reward. The entire episode had been a disaster from the moment Colonel Fitzwilliam entered the music room. Why did he have to be the one to see her first? The gleam in his eye would have been gratefully acknowledged if only he had been Darcy!
She picked morosely at the curtain, not even interested in the view outside the window. Alone in the house but for servants, Miss Bingley had only her thoughts for company. There was plenty of thinking to do, of course. How could one not dwell upon the prospect of marrying into an Earl's family? Darcy was unattainable now but she could still become a member of his family by marrying his cousin. Wondering if the Colonel owned any property of significance, Caroline considered what advantages there were in being an Earl's daughter-in-law rather than just the Mistress of Pemberley. That title had been all consuming until lately but now that an Earl, a real title of the Peerage, was a distinct possibility in becoming an intimate connection her entire outlook needed to be revisited.
"But he's horrible!" she hissed into the air. "Completely lacking in manners without an ounce of honour! He left me standing in that room with my dress falling off just to walk his aunt to her carriage! No, I won't marry him. Nothing the Earl can say will make me do it and I don't care if everyone else knows about what happened in the music room!" She whirled from the window and practised an elegant walk across the room, one hand held out as if offering it to an unseen gentleman. "You, Colonel, are an unprincipled cad. I feel sorry for any woman unfortunate enough to become your wife and am heartily pleased for the fact that I will not!" She gave a brisk wave of her hand as if slapping his face, then giggled. "That will do for you but not for the Earl. What shall I say to him?" Putting one finger to her mouth, Caroline nibbled on the nail. Her expression brightened and she smiled shrewdly. "I wonder....."
What she wondered was left unsaid. The sound of a carriage drew her back to the window embrasure, surprised at the early return of the others. It was not Darcy's carriage that stood in the drive, however. The coat of arms on the door looked familiar but she could not place it and the gentleman who now stepped down was equally a mystery. Dismayed, Miss Bingley realised that she was alone in the house and would have to greet this stranger, who in all likelihood was a friend of her brother's and would prove to be tedious company. It was most inconvenient for him to arrive when she most needed time to compose herself before the Earl expected her reply.
Before the servant could find her, Caroline made her way downstairs and instructed the first one she saw to direct the new arrival to the front parlour. It was sure to be warm in that room, with the sun shining in at that hour. If she had to entertain a complete stranger she would at least be comfortable. Another maid was discovered to be cleaning in the room when she entered and was promptly told to bring tea and cakes for two. The young woman was familiar with her mistress's whims and wasted no time in leaving the room to carry out her orders. No sooner had she disappeared through the door than it opened again and the gentleman was announced.
"Lord Belper."
Lord Belper? Caroline rose from her chair, startled but remembering to curtsey before he advanced very far into the room. "Good morning, my Lord. I am Miss Caroline Bingley. This is my brother's house but I regret to inform you that he is not in at the moment. Is there something I may do for you?"
His eyes took in the room in a sweeping glance as if searching for something before returning to his hostess. "Good morning to you, Miss Bingley. I understand that my brother, Colonel Fitzwilliam, is a guest in your home. It is he I have come for."
Her eyebrows rose in response to his words and tone. "Your father... the Earl also arrived early this morning. They have accompanied my brother and your cousins on a visit to a neighbour. I do not expect them for another hour."
The Viscount grimaced. "That is unfortunate." He pursed his lips thoughtfully and looked at Miss Bingley. "May I trouble you to allow me to wait for them?"
"Oh, it is no trouble," smiled Caroline. She suddenly realised they were still standing. "Please, sit down." He chose a seat opposite her where he sat stiffly, looking decidedly uncomfortable. "I have ordered some refreshments," said Miss Bingley helpfully. "They should be here soon."
"Forgive me, but I must ask... did the Earl speak with my brother when he arrived? There is a matter of some importance that needs to be addressed and I... well, I must make my position clear to him."
"Your position?" The words were out before Caroline could stop them. The matter was none of her business as far as the Viscount was aware but she knew differently. Did all of the Colonel's family follow his footsteps to keep him out of trouble? If so, they didn't do a very good job of it.
The gentleman frowned slightly. The resemblance to his father was obvious. "It is not something for a lady's ears, I'm sorry to say. My brother is not always the most discreet of men and this time he has gone too far. I will not allow his actions to affect the family name or reputation. I sincerely hope he has not made himself unwelcome in your brother's home as well."
Miss Bingley considered answering him in the affirmative, as the Colonel was most definitely unwelcome in her opinion, but she fancied it was her brother's opinion that interested their visitor. "Charles has not said anything that would indicate Colonel Fitzwilliam has offended him." She leaned forward and lowered her voice to a near whisper. "He is a very forgiving sort, though, and people often take advantage of him."
This bit of information proved to be disturbing for the Viscount. He sat up straighter with a disapproving glare. "This may well be worse than I feared. I am very sorry, Miss Bingley, that you and your brother have been taken in by Harold's dreadful tricks."
"Harold?" She blinked in surprise.
"Yes, I forgot he prefers to keep his given name to himself but it is Harold. I promise you that he has never been so terrible before now but..." He paused thoughtfully, then looked at his hostess piercingly. "Tell me, do you know anything about Lady Catherine de Bourgh's visit here yesterday?"
"L-l-lady Catherine?" stammered Caroline. "Did she come to see Charles?" She hoped the colour in her cheeks didn't give away her nervousness.
"No, she came to see Darcy but saw my brother instead." He continued to look at her in a way that made Caroline believe he could see her thoughts. "Well, if the Earl has already taken him to task then so much the better. It is high time he heard from me as well, though. Enough of his wild ways! It's time he settled down."
Miss Bingley found it difficult to swallow the lump that suddenly rose in her throat. No, not two of them wanting to marry off the Colonel! I can deter the Earl, I'm sure, but both of them?
"If I don't put a stop to his antics," continued the Viscount, "it may well ruin my chances of finding a suitable wife. Suitable to me, that is." Caroline's eyes widened in surprise and he suddenly realised how rude he had sounded. "Forgive me, Miss Bingley. I only meant that I desire the type of lady who is demure, modest; the sort who will most likely be put off by my brother's behaviour."
She quickly collected her thoughts. "Surely you don't believe the situation to be so very bad? Colonel Fitzwilliam has been nothing but a gentleman while he's been here."
"That is not exactly what my aunt had to say but I shall not argue with a lady." He gave her a smile which softened his features enough to make his nose less pronounced.
"Well, perhaps a bit too flirtatious for my taste but certainly nothing scandalous. I'm sure your aunt must have misunderstood."
"It wouldn't be the first time!" he laughed. "Oh, Miss Bingley, just a few minutes conversing with you has eased my mind considerably."
Caroline smiled warmly at him, satisfied with a good beginning, as the servants arrived with the tea things.
Chapter 30
Bingley was the lone member of the party who remained cheerfully oblivious to the tensions around him. He had spent a pleasant hour with Jane in the sitting room, ignoring everyone else and blissfully content to whisper quietly of inconsequential things while holding her hand behind the cover of their position away from the others. Now sipping at his port, Bingley ventured an occasional comment to the Earl's odd remarks, not knowing what to say but sure that it would sound no more strange than remaining silent.
"How's that, Bennet?" enquired the Earl when Elizabeth's father suggested they were very nearly related already without benefit of Darcy marrying his daughter.
"I refer to my cousin, William Collins," he explained with nary a twitch. "He is heir to my estate but as it turns out he has the honour of your sister's patronage. He is the curate at Hunsford which, if I understand correctly, borders on the grounds of Lady Catherine's estate. We have heard much of Rosings Park, both the house, the environs and the illustrious Lady Catherine."
The Earl's brow wrinkled as he tried to recall the clergyman he'd seen on his last visit to Kent. What little he could remember painted an unflattering picture of a pompous yet grovelling toad of a man with nothing to recommend him but an air of servitude. He said as much to his host.
"That would be my cousin!" laughed Mr. Bennet, amused to see Darcy twitch. "He has his usefulness, though, as Lady Catherine will attest, no doubt."
"No doubt. She does have exacting standards with which I do not entirely agree." Casting a sideways glance at his nephew, the Earl caught his eye before looking away, leaving Darcy to wonder about which of his aunt's views the Earl did concur.
Surely he doesn't hold with that ridiculous notion of me marrying Anne! Elizabeth or no Elizabeth, Anne de Bourgh would never have become Mrs. Darcy. As his uncle had pointed out earlier, in a most tactless way, the future must be considered and the future meant children. Anne, in her sickly state of health, was hardly likely to provide Pemberley with any heirs, let alone robust ones. Darcy was not the only available candidate to understand that. All of that aside, Darcy had decided to marry the woman who inspired in himself the deepest love and the greatest respect for her, as a woman worthy of everything he could bestow upon her. Having come to that decision he could never return to the former expectations of his family and peers. He doubted that another woman like Elizabeth existed for him in this lifetime and preferred not to dwell on what might have been had she not accepted him.
"What could preoccupy a young man's mind so?" The Earl's question nudged Mr. Bennet into action.
"Ah, I have neglected to refill their glasses!" he cried with a half smile, picking up the decanter and starting with Bingley's.
Bingley, never a great enthusiast of port, accepted it with a hesitant expression. Fitzwilliam covered his with one hand. "I'm not one of the preoccupied minds here, thank you. I'd like to keep mine clear."
Mr. Bennet nodded, amused nonetheless. He topped up the Earl's drink before moving on to Darcy. The young man looked up, acknowledging the offer with a thank you. Mr. Bennet filled his own glass and sat down once again.
"It's not often a man has two daughters engaged so quickly, one on the heels of the other."
The Earl said with impeccable composure, "It must give you a great deal of satisfaction, does it not? How many daughters have you? The parlour was practically teaming with fair maidens."
"Five, sir. Do not make the mistake of counting my wife among them despite her youthful exuberance."
This elicited a chuckle from the Earl. "I should be so fortunate but Lady Matlock has a son who is determined to age her before her time." He directed a sharp look toward Fitzwilliam.
"Someone must make up the difference when my brother is so staid and untouched by imperfection." The Colonel was unmoved by his father's banter with their host. The Earl would not divulge anything more personal in this setting, the reprimand having already been delivered. A hearty laugh indicated the seriousness with which this description of the Viscount was received. Fitzwilliam rarely experienced annoyance when faced with his brother's imagined superiority but in light of recent accusations he felt his father's laughter was undeserved. "He is, quite simply, too stodgy to be considered a young man. He must be my grandfather rather than my brother."
Darcy looked up, sensing the change in his cousin's demeanour. "Mr. Bennet will get the wrong impression with this exaggeration, Fitzwilliam. Neither of you are so unusual." He smiled in their host's direction. "We all have our peculiarities, don't we?"
Elizabeth's father thought the conversation had just become interesting when Darcy intervened. It would have been far more entertaining to observe the Earl and his son in disagreement but alas, he could not ignore Darcy's opening. "Some are more peculiar than others. I believe you met Mr. Collins last year. Did you know that he had married Miss Lucas?"
Grateful for the older man's cooperation Darcy promptly replied. "Yes, actually. Fitzwilliam and I were at Rosings for several weeks until I ... returned here. We were frequently in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Collins as well as their guests."
"Do you mean to say," asked the Earl in wonder, "that my sister actually entertained her clergyman and his visitors at Rosings?"
"Oh, yes," confirmed the Colonel. "Miss Bennet even played for us several times. Delightful!"
Ah, Miss Bennet was at Rosings! Well, that explains Darcy's sudden attachment, thought the Earl. He suddenly recalled something else his sister had related and in combination with Darcy's words began to piece together the recent events. So, she charmed him, he proposed and then came here to seek her father's permission. How very tidy! "Miss Elizabeth must be a lady of many talents."
Darcy's sharp gaze was immediately upon his uncle's face but there was nothing to see. The Earl's pleasant smile was directed toward Mr. Bennet who was also wary of the meaning behind the remark. Even Fitzwilliam was staring at his father doubtfully. Only Bingley remained ignorant of the undercurrent in the room.
"Oh, she is a great reader!" he declared with a laugh. "You know how much Darcy admires a lady with an improved mind."
Mr. Bennet discreetly coughed and looked away.
***
Elizabeth pretended to be listening to the conversation. Mrs. Bennet's excitement knew no bounds once the gentlemen had left the room. Repeatedly exclaiming their honour in receiving an Earl into their home, she was barely coherent in her enthusiasm. For her own part, Elizabeth's mind was also on the Earl, although for very different reasons. His behaviour confused her; did he approve or disapprove? Darcy had made his own position clear enough, supporting her in the face of his uncle's inflammatory comments. Just how much was intended to insult was still a mystery to Elizabeth. She could not entirely dismiss the fact that he was the brother of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and that lady's opinions were only too plainly expressed! Yet Colonel Fitzwilliam was a man whose character was contrary to his aunt's. It was readily apparent that Darcy and his cousin were close and shared many admirable qualities. Colonel Fitzwilliam was the son of the Earl of Matlock. Could his father be so very different?
There was every possibility that the Earl was like her own father, amusing himself at another's expense. It pained her to think that she would approve of her father behaving in such a manner and disapprove of it in another person. Might he have been testing her; challenging her resolve and her ability to rise above the pettiness they were sure to encounter in London's society? Elizabeth smiled to herself, thinking she was sounding more like Jane by entertaining such noble motives.
"You have every reason to smile, Lizzy," pronounced Mrs. Bennet. "I declare, the rest of your sisters will be hard pressed to follow your example but I'm sure you will introduce them into the finest circles as soon as may be. Imagine all my girls so well married!" Elizabeth and Jane had heard this almost daily since Mr. Bingley had made his offer but for Miss Darcy the sentiment was shocking. Her silence went unnoticed by Mrs. Bennet who was naturally too caught up in her own ideas. "Oh, the Colonel is a handsome young man and would do very well for you, Lydia. Such a fine figure in his red coat, don't you think?"
"Mama," an embarrassed Elizabeth interrupted. "It might be best to concentrate on the future we know rather than speculate."
This suggestion only served to fuel her mother's indignation. "Wedding planning would certainly be a lot easier if you and Jane were not continually avoiding just that by walking out with the gentlemen! One would think you don't really want to get married."
Even Georgiana could not help but be amused by this accusation. "I doubt my brother would believe that. I have never known him to be so happy."
Mrs. Bennet's offended sensibilities were soothed. "Such a delightful young man is Mr. Darcy. I will have a word with him about the planning that needs to be done. He will understand the importance and make sure Lizzy is not otherwise occupied when I need her." Satisfied that one problem was solved, she leaned closer to Miss Darcy to present the next. "Now, tell us more about your cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam."
***
"I am sorry, Elizabeth. You have been forced to suffer at the hands of my most dreadful relations."
"Say no more about it." Elizabeth wrapped her arm around Darcy's as they walked, having escaped the confines of the house for a few moments of peace. "Let us simply enjoy the time we have together without any others intruding on our thoughts."
"You are very wise, my dear," said Darcy, a sly smile beginning to appear. He gently directed his companion toward a low-hanging bough of a large chestnut tree. When they were safe from prying eyes under the cool canopy he stopped and drew her close. "Your cheeks were a most becoming shade when my uncle spoke of children," he said in a quiet voice, smiling fully when Elizabeth's face flushed anew. One finger softly traced a line from her elbow to her wrist. "I was pleased to hear your reply to his provocation."
Elizabeth's breath caught in her throat and she experienced some difficulty in forming a response. Her skin warmed with his touch. "You will make a most excellent father, Fitzwilliam," she whispered at last, encouraging him to continue.
"And you, the perfect mother." His hand moved from Elizabeth's wrist to take hold of her fingers, gently pressing his lips against them before slipping his other arm about her waist. A gasp of surprise escaped her, amusing Darcy but not discouraging him from bringing her closer for a kiss.
"LIZZY!"
Startled, Elizabeth jumped but Darcy's hold on her was secure. "She cannot see us." His eyes were laughing and she relaxed against him, knowing he had spoken the truth.
"She won't be content to simply shout from the doorway. Sooner or later Mama will send someone to find us," Elizabeth reminded him.
Darcy looked at her intently, his words reaching deeply into her heart. "Then let us hope it is later for I have no intention of sharing you any sooner than we are ready." Once again he ran a finger along the length of her arm, distracting Elizabeth enough that she closed her eyes. It was all the invitation he required to touch his lips to hers. Instead of a brief kiss, however, Darcy felt her lean against him and knew what it was to be truly tempted.
The soft rustling of the leaves disguised any other sound in the garden and it wasn't until a quiet voice announced the presence of another party that Elizabeth and Darcy became aware of their surroundings once more.
"Excuse me." Colonel Fitzwilliam was pointedly looking in any direction but at the couple before him. "My father has announced his intention to return to town. Assuming that you and Bingley wish to spend more time with the ladies, I will accompany Georgiana and the Earl to Netherfield and send the carriage back for your convenience."
Darcy stepped forward to discreetly block Fitzwilliam's view as Elizabeth hastily brushed at her hair, a few strands of which had come loose and now trailed fetchingly along her cheek. "I must go in to say goodbye to Miss Darcy and your uncle."
Staying her with one hand on her arm, Darcy quietly said, "There is no need to rush. They will not go without first taking their leave of you."
"I am ready now." Smiling, Elizabeth stepped around him. She took the arm he offered, the Colonel falling into step beside Darcy.
"Careful, cousin," he said with a wink, "else you may find yourself on the road to Scotland."
Chapter 31
Georgiana was quiet on the ride back to Netherfield although her mind was far from idle. While her cousin and uncle conversed between themselves she was content to watch the passing scenery and consider all that had occurred during the morning's visit. There had not been as much time as she would have liked to spend with Elizabeth and her sisters were so very different that Georgiana was more often at a loss for words to respond to their giddy remarks. Mrs. Bennet's singular fascination with the Darcy fortune was a little disturbing, putting her in mind of Mr. Wickham's interest, but as Elizabeth did not share this view Miss Darcy was not particularly concerned. Her brother was well able to take care of himself even if temporarily blinded by his feelings. Georgiana could even smile at Mrs. Bennet's attempt to gain her support in securing her cousin for yet another daughter.
Colonel Fitzwilliam was smiling, too. He contemplated that there would be only a few more hours to endure of his father's company before the man would leave for London. The worst part was yet to come, however, when the Earl would ask Miss Bingley for her decision regarding his offer of restitution for her embarrassment, yet even this did not entirely crush Fitzwilliam's mood. Despite an obvious attempt to intimidate Miss Bennet, she did not waver in the face of the Earl's efforts. This impressed the Colonel with the assurance of her attachment to Darcy and if his father was not as confident there was nothing more that could persuade him. In addition, the sight of his cousin and Miss Bennet when he came upon them in the garden left him unable to resist teasing the former for he had never before witnessed Darcy so captivated by another being. Georgiana was pleased, Darcy was pleased and Fitzwilliam was pleased.
The Earl could not say the same. Miss Bennet was surely agreeable enough to suit Darcy; there could be no objection to her in that respect. Indeed, there could be little objection at all were it not for the conduct of the mother. He considered the assortment of Misses Bennet he'd met that morning and could only shake his head, wondering how a woman of Mrs. Bennet's qualifications could cultivate daughters who appeared to possess more genteel manners than herself. Even the youngest displayed better comportment! It could only be concluded that Mr. Bennet played a larger role in their instruction than was usual for a gentleman. Here the Earl paused in his summation as he recalled the time spent in the library with a tolerable port, two vacant-eyed young men, his own surly son and the father of all those young ladies. He wondered how he would have managed with five daughters to marry off. Lady Matlock would not have been of much use. Her place was better suited as the wife of a man of station, not as the mother of young ladies in quest of desirable husbands. It was fortunate that she had produced sons, and only two at that, for the trouble in matching up the most attractive of the pair had been tedious enough and was still unresolved. Then there was the more recent problem with their younger son. The Earl eyed his offspring resignedly. Harold had always been a promising lad; genial, clever and preferred over his brother's company when they were introduced to the ladies. Not once had he ever given his father cause for concern in that respect. Thus, when Lady Catherine had come calling with a tale of grand proportions, the Earl was reluctant to grant any credence to her story. Debauchery, indeed! Harold? And even less likely; Darcy!
Lady Matlock had been overcome with anxiety and that was the only reason the Earl had consented to set forth for Hertfordshire, knowing he would find nothing to substantiate his sister's claims. How surprising it was, therefore, to hear his son confess to something resembling more than a simple lapse in propriety. The charge was serious for the lady was not a wanton waif, seeking to improve her lot in the manner of many before her. No, she was a lady of some standing in society and the risk was great to both herself and Harold's reputations should word of this incident reach less discerning ears. His son may not like it but more than an apology was necessary and the Earl was prepared to make an attractive offer when the lady confirmed her refusal of the first. He studied Fitzwilliam for a moment before addressing him.
"We must speak with Miss Bingley before I go."
The Colonel turned his head toward his father. "Yes. How much time will you have?"
"Do you anticipate this will take long?"
Fitzwilliam let out a long sigh. "I presume that marriage settlements are not so quickly decided upon."
"Marriage settlements!" Georgiana's shock was written on her face.
A frown once more marked the Earl's expression. "There was no need to announce it. We haven't heard her decision yet."
Annoyed, his son chose to further explain the situation to his cousin. "My father has made an offer to Miss Bingley on my behalf. She and I had a.. misunderstanding yesterday which had the unfortunate distinction of being interrupted by Lady Catherine, who promptly informed my parents."
"Oh, my." Confused, Georgiana shook her head. "But Caroline said nothing. It could not have been as serious as Aunt Catherine believed." She bit her lip and looked across the carriage at her uncle. "Does he really have to marry Miss Bingley?"
"That is up to Miss Bingley. The choice is hers." The Earl hadn't expected such an enquiry from his young niece. "A man should be prepared to pay the price of his actions." Georgiana's eyes widened. "Don't be alarmed, my dear. The price is the waiting for her answer. Marriage is not a punishment, it is a duty."
"I think a lady's perspective might be a little different, sir." Fitzwilliam was painfully aware of Georgiana's discomfort though the Earl knew nothing of the previous year's trouble at Ramsgate. Darcy had been adamant that no-one was to hear a word of it outside of those directly connected. At the time the Colonel had considered him over cautious but now he was certain that Darcy had judged correctly. Even such a close relation becoming privy to that information could have spelled disaster for Georgiana.
"Georgiana needn't worry about marriage for many years yet," said the Earl, directing a smile her way. He mistook the colour rising in her cheeks for embarrassment. "Now, now my girl. The young men will be buzzing around you soon enough. That will give your brother something to think about."
"Darcy will have a wife to assist in introducing Georgiana into society," Fitzwilliam pointed out, "leaving him free to monitor the hopefuls." He gave his cousin a reassuring look. "I think you'll find Mrs. Darcy will inspire confidence in you."
Georgiana's eyes shone. "I am very much looking forward to having a sister."
Before her uncle could offer any contradiction the carriage stopped, having arrived at Netherfield's front entrance. They disembarked, Miss Darcy excusing herself to go upstairs to change while the Earl directed his son toward the sound of voices in a nearby room.
Upon their entrance Miss Bingley's warm smile slipped momentarily but her companion rose to greet his father and brother. "I want to speak with you, Harold."
The Earl drew back his shoulders. "There was no need for you to come here. It does not concern you."
"With all due respect, sir," the Viscount smoothly replied, "if Harold has disgraced the family name in any way then it does concern me."
His father relaxed. "Well, you may rest assured that your aunt raised a false alarm on that matter. Your brother is not involved in any scandalous activity."
"There, just as I told you," purred Miss Bingley, drawing three pairs of eyes to where she sat, a satisfied expression upon her face.
"Aye, that you did but I confess I suspected you were trying to spare my feelings." Lord Belper favoured her with a tender smile.
Fitzwilliam suppressed an amused snort and sought a chair instead. "Now that you are here I may as well hear what you had planned to say."
"Very obliging of you but not in the presence of Miss Bingley, if you please." With a small bow he addressed the lady. "I do not mean to be rude but I do need to speak privately with my brother. Is there another room we may use?"
"Oh, for goodness sake!" An exasperated Fitzwilliam rose quickly from his seat and marched across the room to stand by the door. "Let's get this over with. The library will do well enough."
The Viscount would not go without properly taking his leave of Miss Bingley. "Please excuse us. We will not be long."
Caroline nodded cheerfully but when the two younger gentlemen were gone, leaving her alone with the Earl, she began to feel less sure of herself. In an effort to disguise her nervousness she offered to send for a fresh pot of tea.
"No, thank you," he replied, quickly glancing toward the open door before taking up a seat close to Miss Bingley. Fixing his eyes on her, he said in a low voice, "We may not have much time before my niece joins us. I believe you know to what I'm referring. Have you come to a decision, Miss Bingley?"
"Yes.... and no."
He was taken aback by this answer. Is every young woman determined to plague me today? "You'll forgive me for asking what you mean by that. Have you decided to marry my son or would you consider some other form of amendment for his treatment of you?"
Caroline looked away for a moment and inhaled deeply before delivering her carefully chosen words. "Yes, I will marry your son. No, not the one you offered."
For a full minute the Earl stared at her in complete astonishment, then he laughed. "You are certainly a presumptuous young woman! What on earth would make you think I'd agree to a marriage between you and my heir when it was my younger son who committed the crime?"
"You did suggest other forms of atonement. I don't particularly care to marry Colonel Fitzwilliam and have presented an alternative." She dared not hold her breath waiting for him to reply.
"This notion cannot have been formed until very recently," said the Earl. "Perhaps in the last hour?" Caroline's colour deepened but she said nothing more. Lord Matlock considered her suggestion. Although he more than disliked the heavy handed style his sister employed, meddling in other people's lives, it had become increasingly apparent in the last few years that his eldest son was not going to find a wife without some assistance, be it solicited or clandestine. If it were simply a matter of him looking but not finding a suitable lady there would be no cause for the Earl's dissatisfaction. However, his heir did not appear to be making any effort; indeed, he was inordinately fastidious, even more so than his cousin Darcy! This was simply not acceptable for it was the Viscount's duty to marry, whether he liked it or not. Whether he likes her or not! mused the Earl ruefully. He studied the young lady before him, wondering if she would enjoy being the wife of his eldest son any more than she indicated wanting his younger one for a husband. "Have you considered that you may be equally disillusioned with your alternate choice?" Her surprise was evident; she had not thought of that. Lord Matlock detected a hint of apprehension in her countenance. "Regardless, it is not within my power to offer anyone but the gentleman who offended you. Some may argue that I don't have that power either but it is irrelevant to the moment. Harold will do as he's told while Ignatius.... well, he's more his own man and requires careful handling."
Miss Bingley's hopes began to fade. Her contemplations had been interrupted with the unexpected arrival of Lord Belper and thus she had no other suggestions ready to put forward. She thought he had shown some interest, though, and she had not squandered the time spent with him prior to his father's return. "May I ask what you had in mind to offer me if I turned down the Colonel's hand?"
"Oh, let's not be too hasty, Miss Bingley," chuckled the Earl. "We may yet come to an agreement if you are prepared to negotiate."
***
The door closed quietly but firmly behind the Viscount. He stood with is back to it, arms crossed, and glared at his brother. "Do you never think before you act, Harold?"
Fitzwilliam, pouring himself a drink from one of the decanters on a sideboard, replied in a tired voice, "Don't address me as a child, Iggy. I am barely three years younger than you."
"You know I dislike that name," snapped Lord Belper.
"Yes, I do know." The Colonel grinned and raised his glass to his lips.
"You really have no idea of the seriousness of the situation, do you? Lady Catherine is apoplectic, Mother is beside herself, imagining all sorts of horrors befalling you and you just stand there with an idiotic smile on your face as if there is nothing wrong at all." He dropped his chin to his chest, looking down his nose at his brother. "Where is this young woman you have defiled?"
"De-what? Is that word even in your vocabulary?" Fitzwilliam laughed. "I'm surprised you have sullied your ears with such terms. Really, Iggy," he continued, extending an arm to prevent the Viscount from approaching. The Colonel could see the outrage in his eyes from across the room. "Must it come down to this? You take the word of Aunt Catherine over your brother, even over your father's assurance to the contrary! Do you honestly think I am that corrupt, that I would engage in sordid activities in the home of a friend? If you only knew how ridiculous you sound."
Lord Belper eyed him suspiciously. "Lady Catherine does not fabricate stories for her own amusement. What did she see to give her this idea? There must be some truth in it."
"What she sees and what she believes are often two very different things." Sighing, the Colonel refilled his glass and motioned his brother to take a seat. "Consider that very recently Darcy and I were at Rosings, paying our yearly visit to our dear aunt and cousin. Darcy unexpectedly found himself required to leave, without a word to anyone but myself and that only in a hastily scribbled note. Do you know what Aunt Catherine concluded as the reason for his departure? That he had a mistress who demanded his attention. Darcy!"
"Are you telling me that her accusation is entirely unfounded?"
"I am saying she found me in the company of a young lady and jumped to a conclusion far from the truth!" Colonel Fitzwilliam would not lie but he was not beyond a little prevarication to save Miss Bingley any embarrassment. Should he end up marrying her it would then become his responsibility to ensure that his brother kept all impertinent enquiries to himself. The contemplation of what actions this might entail brought him some comfort. "I have done nothing that would bring shame to any member of our family."
Lord Belper weighed all that he had heard then took the glass from his brother's hand, drinking the last of its contents. "It was not my intent to belittle you, Harold, but to prevent further damage to our family name. I feel it is my obligation as heir to the Matlock title to do whatever is necessary to preserve our respectability. You cannot fault me for that." He put the empty glass on a table and moved toward the door. "Shall we return to Miss Bingley now?"
Fitzwilliam raised an eyebrow. "That's it? The end of my lecture?"
"As if you ever heed a word I say."
"First you would have to say something worth heeding, brother." Rising from his chair, the Colonel drew in a deep breath, preparing himself to face what might be his future. "Very well, let's see Miss Bingley."