Beginning, Section II

Chapter 5 ~ Knock Three Times

Posted on Thursday, 4 August 2005, at 11:50 a.m.

Georgiana held her brother's hands in hers and told him how much she had missed him. "I read your letter with amazement as I'm sure you intended! I want to hear all about Miss Elizabeth."

His smile held excitement and a little trepidation, just the sort that indicated his embarrassment in discussing such an intimate topic. "You must meet her to appreciate how wonderful she is, Georgiana. I cannot do her justice with words. Rest assured that you will love her just as much as I, though."

Her eyebrows rose, questioning his final statement. "You do love her, then? Are you sure?"

Darcy nodded, certainty in his very posture. "I think she likes me, too." He suddenly leaned forward, conspiracy in the grin which appeared on his face. "I kissed her!" His sister looked at him, shocked, and he nodded again. "I did! I'd do it again, too. Oh, don't reprimand me, Georgiana. I know the proper order of things. I will wait until she has accepted my offer of marriage before I ask for another kiss."

"When do you intend to propose to her?" She was relieved to hear he had not yet declared himself although the kissing could yet present a problem. "I would like to meet her first."

"Of course you shall and I hope you will accompany us to Longbourn tomorrow."

"What may I expect, then? You must tell me more." Preparing herself for a litany of soppy praise, Georgiana found her brother's narrative direct and endearingly touching. She had never heard him speak in such a serious and eloquent manner. It set her to thinking anew about what his future might be and if their cousin might have been mistaken in his assertions.

"I do not wish to alarm you," Darcy was saying, "but there is a problem Fitzwilliam must solve immediately. George Wickham has come here."

Georgiana immediately sprung from her chair, pacing to the door and back again to where her brother had risen to his feet. Her hand swept the hair back from his brow as she worriedly scanned his face. "What has he done now? Has he hurt you?"

Darcy took her hand and held it still. "No, I am fine. He has spoken with Miss Elizabeth, however, and I'm not sure exactly what he has said but it is not good. This afternoon it was clear that whatever he told her filled her with dread of me." His teeth came together and he almost snarled. "I would have challenged him on it had Bingley not stopped me."

"I am eternally grateful to Mr. Bingley, then!" cried his sister. "Duelling, William! How could you even consider it? Is the lady worth losing your life?"

"I would not be the one ending up dead, Georgiana," Darcy stated succinctly. With an abrupt reversal of tone, his expression softened and he said to her, "It is unimportant now and to answer your question, yes, I believe she is worth it." He noticed the anguish in her eyes. "I would do the same in defence of you."

"Oh, William," she sighed. "You have only just met her. How could she affect you like this so quickly?"

Darcy smiled. "Tomorrow you will have your answer. Even Fitzwilliam cannot object."

There was not much time left for socialising before retiring. Both Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam were tired from the rushed journey and having already met with Darcy and Bingley, and heard what they had to say, the two cousins wished to confer before deciding what should be done next.

"What did he have to say for himself?" Fitzwilliam demanded when they reached the sanctuary of the upstairs sitting room.

"Richard, I think we need to reconsider some of our expectations for William." Georgiana met his gaze hesitantly.

"Don't tell me you agree with Bingley! Darcy is not going to marry this ... Miss Bennet. You know it cannot be." He let out a huff of frustration and dropped into a chair. "Shall I tell her or will you?"

"I want to speak with her first," she said, quite firmly. "William really does love her, Richard."

"He believes he does," he quietly corrected her. "It's an adolescent crush, Georgiana. He will get over it. We all do." Her frown was aimed directly at him. Fitzwilliam shook his head. "Don't look at me like that. I'm not so unfeeling as you think. We both grew up with Darcy and know his limitations. You asked me on the way here how much education your father provided and I'll tell you it did not include what you could not mention. Your brother had never expressed any undue interest in the ladies he had met and if not for that blasted Wickham his eventual education would have been under my direction!" He fell silent, eyes closed as he regained control of his emotions. "I'm sorry. I know you are not aware of half the damage that man did when he took Darcy from Ramsgate to London. I could hardly tell you the more sordid details but I do not wish you now to think Darcy guilty of anything more than merely being in the wrong place. It was Wickham who led him about, used his name and money to gain access to places and services he would otherwise be thrown from without another glance. All of them highly inappropriate for a man of your brother's character, yet he knew no different."

Georgiana's eyes were bright and her voice unsteady. "William mentioned only the gaming halls and some sports such as cock fighting and boxing. Please do not tell me Wickham took him to ... to..."

"Brothels. Yes, Georgiana, Wickham took him to brothels and frequently. Thank God he only wanted Darcy's money for himself and wouldn't dream of wasting it on the man it belonged to!" Fitzwilliam's wrath was as potent as the day he'd discovered Wickham's scheme and had rushed to town to search out his cousin. He slammed a fist down on the arm of the chair. "That's where I finally found them. Wickham was far from discreet and information is easily bought from his sort of friends. Darcy was in the parlour when I walked in. He was reading a book! Georgiana, I knew then and I know now that we were right. He will not be marrying anyone."

She looked away, biting her lip. "But that wasn't a test of love."

"No, it was a far more basic test. Those women know their trade, Georgiana. And what does Darcy know of love, anyway?" He would never admit the pain he had felt upon finding Darcy unaffected by the goings on around him in that place. Never before had Fitzwilliam so much wanted to see his cousin behave as any normal man would when temptation was thrown at him, but it was not to be. "Life is cruel yet we must bear it as best we can," he muttered.

"I don't understand," said Georgiana after a few moments of silence between them. "What does anyone know of love until he experiences it? William loves me, he loves you and all of our family! If he says he loves Miss Bennet then I believe him!"

"That is not the kind of love needed for marriage, Georgiana. In our circle, particularly, we don't count on a romantic attachment, although in Darcy's case I would have gladly disregarded all but the lowest of evils if he was capable of a marriage based on mutual attachment. Consider the feelings of the lady, though." He fixed her in a solemn and steady gaze. "If Miss Bennet is not a fortune hunter, if she truly cares for your brother, do you think she would be happy when his regard eventually fades to indifference simply because he cannot offer anything beyond this current infatuation?"

To his great surprise Georgiana left her chair and stormed away from him to the far side of the room. "Richard, you frustrate me to no end! You refuse to believe what I know I saw in William's eyes tonight! He loves her, he cares about her and he spoke of kissing! Richard, he told me he kissed her and wants to kiss her again. I believe he can offer her a true and lasting marriage of affection and I only hope she is as sincere as my brother." She folded her arms and dared him to contradict her.

Considering her words, and her adamance, Fitzwilliam eventually conceded to wait a little longer before passing judgement. "We go to Longbourn tomorrow, apparently. We shall see what Miss Bennet is like and you must tell her everything, Georgiana. There is no point in putting it off."

"Of course. Any delay would hurt William more should Miss Bennet not wish to marry him." All she wanted now was for her brother to be proven right in his estimation of the lady's feelings. Georgiana was confident that she could handle the rest.

Elizabeth was still feeling terrible about her behaviour the previous day. In spite of the fact that Mr. Darcy had forgiven her atrociously insulting conduct, practically accusing him of trying to assault her, the fact that she had allowed the insidious words of Mr. Wickham such control over her emotions was highly disturbing. In addition, she had been reminded of Mr. Darcy's words to her and how he had suspected her of drinking and probably excessively, if his intent was clear. To add to her distress, her own father seemed to be frowning at her in disapproval with no indication of why he suddenly took disfavour. Surely, he had not discovered that he was missing some items from that cabinet!

With that thought, Elizabeth hurried up the stairs to her room. Carefully closing the door so as not to make any noise, she extracted the bottle from its hidden location and considered how best to conceal it for a return trip to her father's library. In the end the only option was to take an old petticoat in need of mending, wrap the bottle in it and be prepared for any enquiries to be satisfied with the excuse of her need to do some sewing. Fortunately she met no one on the way.

Unfortunately her father was in his library and looked up at her entrance.

This should have been foreseen, Elizabeth was quick to scold herself. "I'm sorry, Papa. Am I disturbing you? I should have knocked."

"It is quite alright, child," he said, motioning her to a seat. Despite the casualness of the gesture there was a seriousness in his face that gave Elizabeth pause. If she hadn't already felt uncomfortable sitting with a bottle of whiskey hidden in an undergarment on her lap, his next address surely would have done it. "I have recently noticed some distressing signs of unladylike behaviour on your part, Lizzy. You know I rarely take issue with your mother's methods and instructions but I could not remain idle after witnessing your very forward actions with Mr. Darcy the other evening."

Elizabeth could not speak; she was only relieved that her father had not discovered her less ladylike habit.

"Lizzy, it is not acceptable for a young lady to be chasing after a man of such repute. Grabbing his hand and pulling him toward yourself! It is so brazen as to land you in trouble you cannot imagine! What have you to say for yourself?"

"But I.. I.. I did not pull him to me for any sort of purpose, Papa!" Astonished by this reprimand, she struggled for an explanation that would suffice. "He makes me laugh and I wanted to tell him that."

His eyebrows rose incredulously. "Is that so? No doubt you did not invite him to kiss you, either!"

"Papa!"

"No, Lizzy. It is perfectly clear what you are about. I am saddened to think that you, my favourite, have felt obliged to follow your mother's advice and have misapplied it, deliberately in contravention of her wishes. You know she hopes for Jane to secure Mr. Darcy and had expressly forbidden you to allow his attentions to yourself. Can it be any more obvious?" Mr. Bennet shook his head. "And now poor Jane has been made to suffer the unwanted advances of Mr. Bingley."

"Oh, but -." Elizabeth fell silent. Should she betray Jane's confidence in order to assure her father that Mr. Bingley's attentions were not unwanted but truly welcome? She could not do that, even to save face. "Mr. Darcy would not suit Jane, Papa."

"Because he drinks, is that it?" Mr. Bennet smirked. "Is that why he suits you better?"

Elizabeth jumped to her feet in indignation. "I made that up! I do not know if Mr. Darcy drinks, not even a little. I've never seen him imbibe. Papa, he is an oddity but it cannot be explained by claiming that he is too fond of drink." He continued to smile ruefully and soon Elizabeth became aware that the material of the petticoat had slipped and revealed the booty hidden in its folds. Her face turned scarlet but to preserve some dignity she grasped the bottle by the neck and plunked it down on the desk. "I had come to return this, Papa. I do not need it anymore."

Mr. Bennet observed his daughter in silence. Her head was held high and proudly; strange considering the disclosure. "May I ask why you felt the need and then why that need no longer exists?"

"You know the answer to both questions but I shall enlighten you nevertheless." Tossing the petticoat onto the now vacant chair, Elizabeth walked to the bookshelves and ran a finger across the spines, her mind far from such pleasurable pursuits. "Mama is the reason I began. Her single minded mission to parade her daughters around like cattle to the auction was threatening to give me nerves like her own. At first I thought, like so many have said, that the drink would have a calming influence and it did; at first. Then I realised it wasn't so much the whiskey that calmed my nervous disposition as the necessity of removing myself from Mama's presence to drink it."

"Ah, you have discovered my trick of self preservation," chuckled her father. Elizabeth did not find it as amusing. "Now for the second part of the equation."

"I won't have to worry about seeing Mama very often for I will be marrying Mr. Darcy," she stated.

Mr. Bennet nearly choked as he had the misfortune of taking a sip of his port at that exact moment of revelation. "You will what?"

"Marry -."

"I heard you!" Never did Mr. Bennet think he'd be having this conversation with Elizabeth. The girl had always shown herself to be intelligent and adept at discerning other people's characters and motives. Did she not realise what Mr. Darcy was about? "Lizzy, you have known him but two days -."

"Three, Papa."

"Do not interrupt," he frowned heavily. "Two days or three, it is not enough time to make a decision about marriage.

"Today will be four. May I make my decision this evening, then?" she flippantly queried.

"Lizzy, do you seriously expect a proposal from this man?"

"Expect? No. I do hope for one, however." Now that she had started, Elizabeth found she could not stop making such shocking statements.

"Just promise me, Lizzy," said her father, pointing a finger directly toward her. "Promise me you will not set a bad example for your younger sisters by taking advantage of his.. erm... desire to see more of you."

Elizabeth stared at him, uncomprehending. "I will allow him to call upon me as often as he wishes! He has been a perfect gentleman, Papa."

So far. "You obviously have no interest in what I have to say. Off with you, Miss Lizzy. Come to me when you and Mr. Darcy have come to an understanding, then." He waved a hand at her dismissively.

Torn between laughing with delight now that she had, in a peculiar manner, managed to obtain her father's permission to marry and wanting to berate the same man for his indolent lack of effort in restraining her, Elizabeth departed the library, leaving behind the whiskey bottle and torn petticoat.

Georgiana Darcy was pleasantly surprised. It was not a long distance to the Bennets' home and the day was tolerably warm. The hour was a little early for polite visiting but neither Mr. Bingley nor her brother were interested in a polite visit. They were courting and, when courting, certain transgressions of polite society were overlooked.

Their cousin sat stiffly, peering out at the village as they passed through, wondering what terribly mundane business the inhabitants were doing. He did not wonder very seriously. It was merely a method to pass the time and to avoid dwelling on the hour or two to come. He glanced over at Darcy, eager and excited in his well tailored clothes and highly polished boots. His entire appearance bespoke both the money and society that he possessed and that possessed him. Bingley, not quite as sharply presented, was no less a living reminder of their status. Fitzwilliam shook his head at the absurdity of two such well-to-do young men being snapped up by a pair of country sisters with nothing to recommend them but their youth and beauty. I may be selling them short, though. Perhaps they are also clever for how else could they have managed to attach these two so quickly? The Colonel grimaced at his own train of thought. I am becoming too cynical. It is a hazard of war, I suppose.

The carriage passed a group of soldiers and Darcy immediately sat up straighter to scan the faces. Fitzwilliam saw this reaction, focussing his own eye on the men outside the windows. Fortunately, Wickham was not among them. For whom this was more fortunate was questionable but the Colonel had no desire to confront the man just yet. He needed some time to put his plan into action before letting his own presence be known. Both relaxed once more and Darcy met his cousin's gaze. They had not spoken of Wickham in detail since that day months previous when Fitzwilliam had returned Darcy to the care of his sister. The Colonel had wished to put the entire incident behind them but now he wondered if he shouldn't have pursued more discussion of what had occurred. Obviously brother and sister had shared more information than Fitzwilliam had expected and he felt strangely left out of this act of confidence. At the time nothing had suggested to him that Darcy would be permanently affected by what had happened; it had simply been another round of adventures with George Wickham like they had done as boys growing up at Pemberley. Fitzwilliam dreaded the thought of where it would have led had the bank not contacted him about Darcy's increased requests for cash. Yet, that time spent with Wickham had obviously imprinted something on his cousin and he hoped it wasn't for the worse. Something had changed, if what Georgiana said was true, and if Darcy's awareness of previously unrealised perquisites had been sparked, it was time to ensure that this was reinforced with knowledge of the social obligations involved.

That talk would need to be scheduled for later in the evening. First Fitzwilliam would assess the situation with Miss Bennet.

He did not have long to wait for once they left the shops of Meryton behind them, Longbourn loomed in the foreground. The Colonel was not impressed with the house and only hoped that the people inside were more appealing. A middle aged woman opened the door and directed them to a sitting room where they were announced with all the formality such a servant could summon. Fitzwilliam took in the array of faces turned in their direction, instantly surmising that the calm and cool beauty was Bingley's amour. One young woman, little more than a girl, appeared bored while another looked politely interested in the new arrivals. Before he could consider the woman who was apparently the brood's mother, some laughter from behind him heralded the entrance of two more ladies.

"Oh, my!" cried Elizabeth upon seeing the party had not had time to sit down yet. "We shall need more chairs."

Darcy quickly stepped toward her, eager to introduce Georgiana who had taken a seat next to Jane. There was nothing shy in his manner, his cousin observed, and felt the need for that little talk was more pressing.

All introductions having taken place, enough seating arranged and refreshments being prepared, Mrs. Bennet was impatient to lay claim to the unexpected windfall of yet another single young man, an officer, into their midst. Just which daughter deserved him was her current dilemma. Mary was not inclined to be partial to a redcoat, yet that was neither here nor there when it came right down to it. Once Jane married Bingley and Lizzy married Darcy it would leave Mary as next in line. A logical choice for this Colonel Cousin.

With this goal in mind, Mrs. Bennet attached herself to the mission of seeing to Fitzwilliam's comfort, leaving him little opportunity to observe the woman that Darcy was gazing at in such a rapt manner. Instead, he was kept engaged in conversation regarding the duties of a Colonel and the regiment under his command, hardly the topic he had been looking forward to pursuing on this visit, nor on any visit.

Almost as if choreographed, Bingley and Darcy rose in unison, the two eldest Misses Bennet also leaving their seats. It was apparent that they intended a departure of the room. Georgiana clearly was meant to accompany them and this left no choice but for Fitzwilliam to devise a scheme to extricate himself from his predicament. He turned to Miss Mary, not a trace of reluctance revealed in his countenance or voice. "I see that the others are about to take a walk, Miss Bennet. The prospect is rather pleasing to a man such as myself, as I prefer the outdoors and being active, you understand. Do you wish to accompany us so that we may continue our discussion?" He secretly hoped for her refusal but too late recognised that gleam of delight in her eye.

"I would like that very much, thank you," Mary quietly replied. "Please excuse me while I fetch my wrap." She darted out the door before he could take another breath.

"There!" concluded Mrs. Bennet in satisfaction. "I do believe there is nothing more beneficial than a long walk on a nice day." The benefit will hopefully be an engagement of at least one daughter, preferably two. Oh, if three can be secured it shall be enough to drive me to distraction! Didn't I tell my husband it was a good thing for our girls when Mr. Bingley took Netherfield? I wonder if there are any more cousins that would do for Kitty and Lydia?

Some may consider Mrs. Bennet's thoughts as greedy for wishing to keep all of the good fortune within her own family but such is the necessity when one has five daughters and no sons, an estate entailed away from the female line and no dowries to speak of for those daughters.

Colonel Fitzwilliam considered himself lucky to escape the house with only one Miss Bennet on his arm.

Chapter 6 ~ The Truth Will Out

Posted on Monday, 8 August 2005, at 6:39 a.m.

Darcy could not have been happier. Proudly he walked with the two ladies he loved most, one on each arm. He was reluctant to give attention to one over the other but it was difficult; Elizabeth drew his eye more often than Georgiana.

His sister longed to speak with Miss Bennet alone yet she could hardly ask her brother to leave them. Unfortunately, the idea was not likely to occur to him so Georgiana tried to think of an excuse to separate him from his interest. A canny Elizabeth could see the younger woman's objective and spared her the difficulty.

"Mr. Darcy," she said, noting with amusement the way his eyes gravitated toward her own whenever he gazed upon her. "I do not think it fair to subject your cousin to the undivided attentions of my sister, Mary. Although I find your company to be that which I could rarely wish to be without, I sympathise with Colonel Fitzwilliam and believe that only you could relieve him of his misery at this moment."

Darcy hazarded a glance over his shoulder and could not argue; Fitzwilliam certainly did appear to be flagging in his patience. "You are most considerate of others' feelings, Miss Bennet. As a matter of fact, Miss Mary and I had an earlier discussion of books that I would like to continue. If you would excuse me, ladies." He bowed slightly and they released his arms.

Georgiana looked at Elizabeth in awe. "My brother would obviously have preferred to remain with you, Miss Bennet. I have never seen him comply without an argument. You have a way with him!"

Elizabeth's laugh was quiet. "Your brother is very sweet but sometimes he cannot see the nose on his face." She had to explain further when Miss Darcy only looked puzzled. "You wished to speak to me without him being present. He would never have noticed."

"You are very perceptive." Georgiana blushed. "I confess that I was trying to think of some way to get rid of him for a few minutes."

"Well, then. I have accomplished that," said Elizabeth, waiting for the questions to begin.

"I know that my cousin will keep William occupied as long as possible but when he wants to return there will be no stopping him." She turned her head to study Elizabeth's expression as they talked. "Miss Bennet, I must be blunt."

"I have recently become accustomed to such approaches, Miss Darcy."

Again Georgiana blushed. "What I have to say may... you may find it upsetting. My brother has confided in me of his feelings for you, an attachment that is serious. I know it is not usual for a sister to be revealing such things but you will understand that my brother is... different."

"Yes, he is different," agreed Elizabeth. "I have not yet determined what exactly is different about him but I know that I like it." She smiled, her own colour growing deeper.

"I am happy to hear that you like him, too. It is my greatest fear that William will be hurt by falling in love with a lady who does not return his affections."

"Miss Darcy, that is the second time you have called him William. Do you not use his full name of Fitzwilliam? He seems to be so proud of it." Curiosity displaced Elizabeth's embarrassment at discussing the man's intimate feelings, no matter how thrilled she was to hear what they were.

A little startled at the turn of the conversation, the younger woman obliged with an answer. "I have always called him William. He made faces when I would call him Fitzwilliam so I thought he preferred the shorter one."

"I offered to shorten the name, like my family calls me Lizzy instead of Elizabeth. He wanted nothing to do with it! He doesn't even like Lizzy." Elizabeth pursed her lips, considering something else. "I'll bet he doesn't shorten your name, either."

"No, he always calls me Georgiana."

"I am tempted to call him Fitzy, just to annoy him," declared Elizabeth. She laughed again, this time louder, at the look of horror on Miss Darcy's face. "Oh, but you must call me Lizzy, of course. That will make it complete."

Georgiana's face relaxed into a smile. "Georgie for me?" she asked.

"Unless you like Anna."

"Oh, that would be nice! Mother was Anne." She had almost forgotten the purpose of her talk with Elizabeth but, upon catching the eye of her cousin, was instantly reminded. "Miss Bennet, I must return to the matter I wished to discuss with you and that is my brother's intentions, or more specifically, your reception of them."

"What is it you wish to know, Miss Darcy?" They had reverted to formality to preserve the gravity of the subject and Elizabeth was not about to be intimidated by the determination of this young woman.

"William, as I said, has told me of his feelings for you. He is sincere, I hope you know, and I do not wish to see him hurt in any way. If you are not inclined to consider him as a marriage prospect then please do not allow this to go any further."

Astonishment was Elizabeth's first reaction. Her second was irritation. "Miss Darcy, your brother is an attractive catch for any woman. I wonder at you thinking I might refuse to consider him."

Georgiana swallowed nervously. "Things are not so straightforward as they appear, Miss Bennet."

Again Elizabeth was struck by the remembrance of Mr. Wickham's words. "What do you mean? Is there a reason I should not consider marrying your brother?"

"No. No, there is not." A soft and unladylike curse passed her lips. "I am not saying this very well."

"What are you trying to tell me?" demanded Elizabeth more forcefully than she intended. Although she had decided her nerves were but a plague of her imagination, excited by an excitable mother, this dialogue was threatening to transform them into a real affliction.

"William is not... he's not.. like normal men."

"What does that mean, normal? I am very much aware that he is a little eccentric, playful and often distracted but how is this not normal?" The claim of madness echoed in her mind and Elizabeth tried to silence it.

Georgiana finally burst forth with, "Damn that Nanny Wickham! The stupid woman dropped him on his head when he was a baby. It was not apparent until several years later that something was just not right with him."

Nanny Wickham? "How did that happen?" Elizabeth heard herself say.

"Of course I was not there, not having been born until many years after, but I have heard the story repeated a thousand times by my father, my uncle and my cousins. William was the pride and joy of Father, heir to Pemberley and the spitting image of my uncle Matlock, mother's brother. When Nanny Wickham let him slip out of her arms one day there were some who said she did it on purpose. They said she was jealous of the privileges that William would have just because he was born into a wealthy family while her own son, George, would never have those advantages. Whether it is true or not, I don't care. William fell to the stone floor and landed on his head. Such a gash was opened up and blood was everywhere! Mother was in shock and the doctor had little hope to offer but when the physical injury had healed without a problem any thought of unseen damage was forgotten. The prized son had survived and that was all that was important.

"By the time William was two there were signs that his mind wasn't working in quite the same way as other toddlers. Being in the company of George Wickham daily made comparison easy and George was a typical two year old. William was quiet and subdued, often engaged in solitary activities while George was into trouble. This in itself was no cause for concern. Rather, our parents were proud of William's manageable nature. He was a good boy, an obedient child." Georgiana paused to draw breath.

Elizabeth took the opportunity to ask a question. "When did someone actually take notice of his differences?"

"At school," sighed Georgiana. "As expected, he was sent off to school at an early age and after spending some months there and not fitting into the routine of classes, William was sent home with the advice to Father that hiring a tutor would be more beneficial. Father was, understandably, incensed by this. Instead of hiring a tutor, he brought in a master for each subject and William did excel in his lessons. There was always a little bit of chaos in the classroom, however. Although he learned well, William occasionally had ... lapses. They seemed to come without warning and the masters were both unwilling and unable to deal with him during these times. Father would lock himself away with William in another wing until all was calm again. Eventually these periods were of shorter duration and occurred less frequently. I, myself, can recall seeing only one in my memory and that was six years ago. Surprisingly, the death of our remaining parent did not cause him to become difficult at all. Richard, our cousin, had expected the worst and was thankfully proven wrong." She peered at her companion closely. "Miss Bennet, I have given you much to think about and I hope I have not frightened you at the same time. Please believe that I love William as he is. He is my brother and I would not exchange him for any other. I am not sure that anyone else, any other woman, would be prepared to accept him knowing the truth. Since he has already assured me of his regard for you it was imperative that I not delay in telling you, preparing you. Should you decide that William is too great a risk then I will let him down gently. You will not have to face his reaction."

Her voice would not cooperate for some minutes as Elizabeth struggled in her mind to comprehend all that she had heard. Somewhere in that story was the man she had come to know as Fitzwilliam Darcy and none of his sister's narrative sounded like him at all. The truly important details were missing. "Miss Darcy, you have told me a sad account of a man I do not know. Where is this warm, sweet Fitzwilliam in the story you have related? How did he come to develop in the stark and sterile environment you have described? I have seen a man who gazes upon the earth with reverence and respect; who finds humour in our everyday actions and puzzles over the greater troubles of mankind. He is both simple and complex, open and mysterious; a man I want to know and will never completely know. He takes delight in innocent actions like holding my hand or a chaste kiss on my cheek, yet rises in anger when his character is impugned by another. True, his reactions seem to be made in haste, without thought even, but he is just as quickly brought around to sensible views by those people he respects. I want to know more about him but what you have related is not a description of the man I have met here. I'm sure you feel it explains him but I have never needed any explanations for I have not seen anything requiring it! I must ask for what purpose you have told me all of this?"

Georgiana was very much taken aback by Elizabeth's reaction. She had recognised her brother in much of what was said but there were parts that she'd never considered William to be, or would never reach. Could this woman have brought him another step forward, taught him things he had never learned? "Miss Bennet, William has decided to make you an offer of marriage. It has long been the opinion of our cousin that he is not capable of sustaining a relationship of that nature. Any woman seriously considering marrying him would have to be informed of the truth of his circumstances. It was my intention to enlighten you and give you the option of retreating from my brother's attentions or proceeding toward the next level. I have not yet outlined the pecuniary details of his situation, however."

"And those would be?" Elizabeth asked tiredly. She expected another round of bleak forecasts, although not particularly worried about what his sister had to say for she doubted Darcy would ever be left destitute, and patiently waited for the rest.

"Father was hesitant to leave Pemberley to William's sole authority and did not expect his own passing to come so early in life. The provisions of his will were such that my brother and I inherited the estate together but as I was, and still am, a minor there was a codicil attached that should one or both of us be underage then Colonel Fitzwilliam would be the trustee until such time that I turn twenty one."

"Twenty one!" cried Elizabeth. "Surely that was not necessary."

"Father was as confident of my abilities to manage the responsibilities as he was William's." Georgiana made a face. "Richard is efficient but he focusses more on keeping the books than the day to day estate business. Our steward works with William on that and they make a good team but William has no real control of anything, not until I am of age. Even after that Richard is wary of my brother's capability but is equally reluctant to make an issue of his shortcomings for fear that William's competence would be questioned, legally. There are some family members who would seize the opportunity to wrest control from him, then. While our cousin remains as trustee we need not fear it but once his office is dissolved William's fate is hardly assured. Our aunt has made no secret of the fact that she covets Pemberley and would have gladly matched her daughter with him to secure it. That her daughter's constitution is sickly did not dissuade her but William laughing at the suggestion incited enough anger that our aunt never mentioned it again."

Elizabeth smiled at this; she could easily imagine Mr. Darcy laughing at a perfectly ridiculous proposal of that sort. "This is all very informative, Miss Darcy, but I fail to see how it would persuade me to have a change of heart. I do not aspire to become a lady of fashion, exhibiting myself amongst the ton in London to be praised and fawned over as a useless ornament. You have not indicated that Mr. Darcy would be disinherited for marrying someone of my moderate means nor that he would ever be left wanting for luxuries in life. In short, were I of the fortune hunting bent there is nothing to discourage me but the prospect of acquiring a husband who is a little queer in the attic, a circumstance not at all uncommon in many families and, I assure you, my own has enough examples to make you leery of matching your brother with me!" There was a twinkle in her eye that made Georgiana laugh. "Considering the alternative that Mr. Wickham put before me I must say that you have painted quite an attractive prospect, Miss Darcy!"

"Oh, dear," smiled Georgiana. "Richard will not be happy with me if I have failed to ferret out the truth and have instead encouraged precisely the kind of woman he wished to avoid for William."

"I do believe your wish coincides with Colonel Fitzwilliam's, if I am not mistaken," countered Elizabeth. In spite of the light tone, she knew that the other lady would not recommend her to Mr. Darcy unless satisfied on one final point.

Mr. Bingley could not have been happier with the way things had turned out. With Miss Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam in attendance he could commit his full attention to the delightful task of courting Miss Bennet. He knew it had only been a matter of a few days since making her acquaintance but in Charles Bingley's mind how much time did one need to decide if perfection was what one desired in a marriage partner? Miss Jane Bennet was perfection personified and he had no intention of letting her slip out of his grasp. He studied her profile; angelic. With eyes down turned she appeared as a heavenly messenger, sweet words of wisdom poised on her lips, waiting for the consummate moment to impart them. Her hair, swept upwards with grace, lay soft and inviting behind the curve of her ear. He longed to reach out and touch its golden lustre but restrained himself, for the moment. By the end of the day he was certain the reward would be his.

For a while they walked in silence, the sounds of conversation from the others pretending to capture their thoughts. Jane was as preoccupied as Bingley, however. His mere presence was enough to discompose her but as her arm rested on his, their fingers touching when he brought his other hand to cover her own, she became overwhelmed with sensations she was unable to identify. For the first time in her life, Jane wanted something to steady her nerves and wondered if Lizzy had brought that little flask she oft times carried on their visits to Mrs. Philips. When Mr. Bingley's voice broke their little island of silence she startled and jumped under his hand.

"I'm sorry, Miss Bennet! I did not mean to frighten you," he apologised, most sincerely.

"I should not have let my mind wander," she shyly accepted the blame. "It was impolite of me."

"May I enquire of your thoughts?" Bingley detected a flush of colour with his question and smiled to himself. "I will confess mine."

Jane was not ready to reveal her secrets yet. She stole a glance at her sister and saw her deep in conversation with Miss Darcy. "I wonder about Mr. Darcy and Lizzy." She turned back to look at Bingley earnestly. "It is not proper for me to speak thus, I know, but in light of our conversation yesterday about Mr. Darcy's.... impediment, I am concerned for my sister's happiness for she finds him to be quite likeable."

"Oh, Darcy is a very likeable fellow indeed! I am glad to hear that Miss Elizabeth finds him so. I can tell you that Darcy likes her, too." He said the last in almost a whisper.

Jane's face lit up with a smile. "Really? But what about.. ?"

"Yes," conceded Bingley, the smile fading from his face. "It could very well present a problem. His.. manners.. can take a turn for the worse at times." Then a thought occurred to him. "However, I must say that since he has met your sister Darcy has not exhibited any of his objectionable tendencies. Perhaps Miss Elizabeth will be the best influence he could ever find!" Jane hoped the same could be said for his influence on her sister. "You have certainly been a good influence on me," he boldly added.

Jane blushed a bright pink. "Mr. Bingley," she scolded, "we were discussing your friend." She was unable to stop herself from peeking up at him from behind her eyelashes and offering a shy smile.

He patted her hand, saying, "We were, but I am more interested in discussing.. us." Noting that the others were distracted, Bingley slowed their pace enough to allow them to fall further behind. After a moment, when he was assured the distance was great enough to prove confidential, he stopped and drew Jane around to stand before him. What began as a solemn declaration of his feelings for her turned into a lengthy dissertation on her flawlessness. Jane withstood the onslaught of adulation, gasping but once when he compared her beauty to that of a Roman goddess, and by the time he was done she felt bloated with the praise. Bingley waited expectantly for a reply.

"This is so sudden," Jane managed when she found her voice. "I don't know what to say."

"How about yes?" grinned Bingley.

Jane laughed and fortunately her laugh was naturally quiet or it would have drawn the attention of her sisters and the others, who were by now quite far ahead. Her reaction did nothing for Bingley's confidence which, high to begin with, was now flagging with each second he had to wait for her answer. Before he could sink to the point of despair, Jane provided the necessary relief. "Then yes it is!"

"Truly?"

"Yes."

"Truly!" Bingley's face lit up. Despite his earlier confidence, the confirmation of his belief in her acceptance was nearly overpowering. "I must speak with your father immediately!"

Again Jane laughed. "I believe that can wait until we return from our walk. If we turn back now I'm sure Lizzy will have everyone grouped into search parties thinking we have become lost."

"Oh," replied Bingley, a sheepish look about him. "We cannot have that happen." He grasped her hand more firmly and pulled her close. "I suppose we should catch up with them now."

Jane nodded but Bingley wasn't prepared to walk on just yet. There was one other thing that needed attending to in order to seal their agreement.

It was dark, the night was quiet but the passengers in the coach could still hear Mrs. Bennet's excited cries. They were thankful that Bingley had waited until after dinner to speak with Jane's father and that gentleman had delayed any further announcement until close to the time the Netherfield party must leave. Unfortunately, Mrs. Bennet insisted on them staying longer, past the time that would allow them to travel while there was still a little light, and by the time they did receive permission to depart the sun had long since set, pitching the countryside into blackness.

Thankfully it was but three miles to Netherfield.

Georgiana rubbed one ear and heard a ringing sound in it. "I may need to request a hot compress for this ear," she sighed.

"I need a hot toddy and forget the sugar," muttered Colonel Fitzwilliam. Bingley didn't hear him but Darcy lowered his eyebrows in disapproval.

"She's an angel, isn't she?" crooned Bingley.

The other three stared at him. Only Darcy dared voice what they were thinking. "Mrs. Bennet?"

"No, not Mrs. Bennet!" Bingley almost laughed. "Jane, of course."

"Hmm." Leaving his friend to his reverie, Darcy looked at the others questioningly. "Your opinions on my angel?"

Georgiana was enthusiastic. "Oh, William! You were right. She is delightful!"

Not having had an opportunity to speak with his cousin as of yet, Fitzwilliam's concern made itself known. "Can you two not wait until we get home before delving into this matter? Georgiana, I would like to speak with you first."

"No you don't," Darcy told him firmly. "Anything you have to say about Miss Elizabeth you will say in my presence."

His cousin was not pleased. "I did not have the opportunity to spend very much time with her. I was a little too popular with her younger sisters." Even less pleasing was the very unladylike noise coming from Georgiana's corner of the compartment for she obviously had witnessed his dilemma and done nothing to alleviate his distress. At least Darcy still appeared respectful. "Were you aware of her sisters' fascination for officers?"

"Oh, yes!" piped up Bingley. "Miss Lydia and Miss Kitty are forever going on about their uniforms."

Darcy seemed to suddenly recall something important. "Now that you mention it, I had a conversation with each of them on that very subject. They were not at all interested in the history of the design, however."

Fitzwilliam rolled his eyes, praying for deliverance from romance-afflicted fools. "Georgiana, am I to understand that you approve of Miss Elizabeth?"

She nodded vigorously. "I do, indeed." She gestured for him to lean forward and met him halfway, both bouncing dangerously close to bumping heads as the carriage jolted down the rough laneway. "I have no doubt that she is sincere in her affection for my brother," Georgiana whispered. "That was the deciding factor." She straightened up in her seat and nodded to him once more.

"I see." Well, that's that. I hope you are right, little cousin. That leaves only one more concern to address and it falls to me to tackle it. Miss Bennet may know what she is in for but I have to determine if Darcy does. "So, Darcy," he said. "Your sister is in agreement with you. I guess there is little I can say to persuade you otherwise but nevertheless I would request an audience with you before we retire this evening."

"Must I?" Darcy grimaced. "If you wish only to make another attempt at discouraging me then I say I will not."

An amused smile was the Colonel's response. "No, I realise that is hopeless. It is important that we speak before you go about proposing to the young lady, however."

Darcy shrugged his shoulders. "Very well."

They fell silent for the remainder of the journey which was, thankfully, short. Upon entering the house Georgiana went upstairs to her room, Bingley invited the gentlemen into the library for drinks and while Darcy never partook of spirits he accepted the invitation. Fitzwilliam readily agreed to the offer, eager to fortify himself for the impending discussion with his befuddled cousin.

Chapter 7 ~ A Private Word, Here and There

Posted on Thursday, 11 August 2005, at 7:20 a.m.

Elizabeth dragged her sister off to her room for a private chat before bed. There was so much to talk about, not the least of which was Jane's engagement! How had Bingley proposed, what did he say, what did he do? She wanted to hear it all. It would help to keep her mind off what might occur on the morrow, if she was lucky. To dwell too much on what she hoped might happen was not helpful in keeping under control those nerves she denied having.

"Lizzy!" Jane laughed as soon as they reached her room. She fell back on the bed, continuing to laugh until Elizabeth impatiently demanded that she become coherent. "Oh Lizzy, you cannot imagine how I feel tonight! Mama is beside herself with excitement which is not unexpected but do you know what that means? I will no longer be subjected to her pushes and shoves, prodding toward eligible young men and her sobbing about lost opportunities because I didn't do exactly as she instructed."

"No, she'll be concentrating on me now!"

"Oh," gasped Jane, horrified at her lack of sympathy. "I'm so sorry, Lizzy. I didn't think!"

"It is hardly worth worrying about, Jane. I believe I shall soon follow you down the path of matrimony," Elizabeth proudly stated.

Her sister stared in amazement. "Mr. Darcy?"

"No, his cousin."

It took Jane a full minute to realise Elizabeth was jesting. "Oh, do not do that to me, Lizzy! How can I ever believe you to be serious when you say things like that? Not to mention your comfort in the dresser drawer. Lizzy, I was very nearly tempted to ask you for that flask today when the time was upon me to receive Bingley's words of affection! He said so much and I was in awe of the depth of his feelings!"

"Jane! You wanting to seek comfort in the evils of alcohol? Pray do not even start, dearest sister. It truly is an evil once you begin and I will tell you now that I have declared myself free of the influence from this day forward." She did not wish to continue on this topic, however, and begged Jane to disclose all the particulars of the afternoon's event. It did not take much effort to convince her, occupying their attention for close to an hour.

"Now," Jane concluded with a sly glance at her sister, "you must reveal all about your feelings for Mr. Darcy. I know that he admires you a great deal," she teased.

"Oh, that much I know, as well." Elizabeth grinned, refusing to give in so easily. "Miss Darcy was kind enough to inform me that he intends to propose!"

Jane's eyes could not possibly have grown any wider. "That is unprecedented! Why would she tell you such a thing?"

Elizabeth commenced to present an abbreviated version of Miss Darcy's story of her brother's unfortunate past, relying on Jane's natural sympathies to accept all as truth and to understand Elizabeth's own interest and attraction. When she was done, and there was nothing more to say that could politely be mentioned, she sat back and waited for her sister's verdict.

Jane considered it all before speaking. Slowly, her smile warmed her countenance. "Lizzy, I am so glad that Mr. Darcy does not have a problem with drink. I could only see that as a very big source of trouble should you two marry. I agree with you that he does not appear to be the same man his sister described. Even Bingley has not made mention of any incidents as Miss Darcy indicated her father suppressed even though he did say that his friend's manners are sometimes a bit... off."

"Off?" Elizabeth could not help laughing. "That is a generous way of describing what might very well be rather offensive behaviour."

"Lizzy, be serious now. Will you accept Mr. Darcy, if he asks, merely because he does ask or because you really want to marry him?"

"After all that I have said how can you not know the answer?" Elizabeth made a great show of looking offended but quickly relented. "I love him, of course! Jane, we are the two luckiest young women ever!"

Bingley kindly left the other gentlemen in the library after less than an hour. Fitzwilliam took a few moments to compose his thoughts, finish his glass of brandy and pour another before taking a deep breath and addressing his cousin. Darcy looked up at the sound of his name, putting aside the book he had been reading.

"Darcy, before I agree to let you marry Miss Bennet -."

"Agree?" the younger man interrupted. "What have you to say in the matter?"

Fitzwilliam could have smacked himself for the slip. "I mean, as per the terms of your father's will I am the trustee of Pemberley until Georgiana is twenty-one, regardless of your age."

Darcy smiled smugly. "Yes, but I am not Pemberley nor is Miss Bennet marrying the Estate. I may do as I wish without any regard for whether you agree or not."

His cousin's eyebrows rose in astonishment. He had not considered looking at the matter from that perspective. "Think of it this way, then; as your friend I am concerned that you may not be aware of all that marriage entails and want to make sure you do. Now, have you any questions?"

"No."

"No? Come now, Darcy. You must want to ask me something!"

Darcy looked away in an imperious fashion. “Why would I ask you, of all people, to elucidate on the state of matrimony? You are not married.”

Throwing his hands in the air in defeat, the Colonel plopped down into a chair. “Alright, I see I must speak plainly. Darcy, I know your father did not arrange for your education in… er… a certain subject and it now falls to me to enlighten you if you intend to pursue this marriage notion.”

“Go on.” Darcy’s expression was neutral.

Fitzwilliam took a deep breath. “You are familiar with the purpose of marriage?”

“Do you take me for a simpleton? Of course I know. I’ve attended church regularly for every one of my twenty-seven years!” Darcy rumbled. Fitzwilliam said nothing but waited for the answer. Darcy stubbornly crossed his arms but eventually gave in. “Procreation. The purpose of marriage is the procreation of children.”

“Precisely,” nodded his cousin. “And how does this come about?”

“You don’t know?”

Fitzwilliam sighed, reining in his frustration. “Darcy, do you believe Miss Bennet will want children?”

“Of course!” His smile took on a sly bent. “I’m looking forward to creating children with Miss Elizabeth. Not until she is Mrs. Darcy, of course.”

“Of course. Children don’t just appear out of thin air, however. What do you know of that... er… process?”

“Ah,” said Darcy, nodding his head in understanding. “Now you get to the point. Well, you need say no more. I am familiar with those facts.”

“You are?” Fitzwilliam asked, surprised. “How so?”

Darcy directed a frown at him. “You can hardly expect me to divulge such information, Fitzwilliam. That would be disrespectful to the lady in question.”

“I beg your pardon?” To the Colonel, the only lady in question at the moment was Miss Bennet!

“No, I will not give you the details. Suffice it to say that I am aware of the procedure and you may now put the topic to rest.”

Darcy was not flustered and so Fitzwilliam decided he had jumped to the wrong conclusion. He was, however, even more determined to discover how his cousin had learned such intimate details and feared that Wickham’s influence was involved. “Before I do, may I ask you something else?”

“By all means.”

“Georgiana has given me to understand that you told her much of what occurred when you were in London with Wickham. She was surprised when I told her about finding you in that brothel, though. Why didn’t you tell her everything?”

Aghast, Darcy stared in disbelief. “Are you serious? I would never discuss such immoral practices with Georgiana! It is disgusting. Wickham is disgusting! His filthy habits were... I won’t even tell you what I saw!”

“Darcy!” Fitzwilliam was alarmed. If this was the basis of the man’s knowledge then the Colonel was determined to correct it immediately. “Tell me at once where you obtained your knowledge of those intimacies between a husband and wife. I must know if it was during that time you spent with Wickham.”

“Good Lord, no!” His eyes widened with revulsion. “How could you suggest I would associate with those unwholesome creatures? Wickham did not even choose the more respectable Houses.”

Fitzwilliam was becoming confused with the increasing evidence that Darcy knew a lot more about London life than he suspected. “If not from Wickham then who? How?”

A smile lifted the corners of Darcy’s mouth. He was enjoying his cousin’s discomfiture. “I’m sure you will figure out the answer yourself if you think about it a little longer.”

Fitzwilliam did think about it. He kept coming back to the same person. “Give me a clue,” he said, perfectly aware of how much Darcy liked to play that game.

“Alright, this is a big clue. If you don’t figure it out from this I’ll have to say I’m disappointed in you, Fitzwilliam. It’s been nearly ten years since I was made acquainted with how to put the necessary information into practice.”

“Ten years!” Casting his mind back, the Colonel considered and discarded many simple explanations as being inapplicable until he hit upon a memory which he had even recently had occasion to recall. “Not that time at Matlock when I happened upon you and Miss –?” Darcy’s calm acknowledgement in the form of a brief inclination of his head brought Fitzwilliam’s tongue to an abrupt halt. He glared at his cousin. “After everything I said to you! That lecture about proper boundaries and socially acceptable behaviour between ladies and gentlemen of our station, you ignored it all!”

“I did not!” a suddenly offended Darcy objected. ‘I have carefully observed those lines as you quite forcefully drew them. Not once have I crossed them since your pointed reprimands.” He paused, a small smile evident. “Well, once or twice. I did wink at Miss Elizabeth while we danced the first time and I kissed her the other evening.”

“Those two transgressions are insignificant in comparison, Darcy. What I don’t understand is how you can claim to have followed my advice but still have managed to.....” His voice trailed off as his eyes widened in comprehension. “Good God! All this time I thought I had prevented you from courting disaster by catching you in the nick of time. I was too late, wasn’t I?”

“You were.”

“She wasn’t loosening your cravat, she was –!”

“Tying it, yes.” Darcy appeared puzzled by his cousin’s agitation. “Honestly, Fitzwilliam, I have not broken my promise made to you that day. I have not engaged any lady in such an activity since your admonishments.”

“Despite Wickham exposing you to every disreputable establishment in London? How on earth did you manage it? Those women must have been all over you in their efforts.”

“Not really,” Darcy calmly explained. “They lose interest very quickly as soon as I produce my book.” He was quite proud of this accomplishment.

Fitzwilliam eyed the other man shrewdly. “Have you been shamming all along?”

“What do you mean?”

He shook his head, the notion gone as quickly as it had come. “Darcy, I have seriously underestimated you. I wish I’d known of this from the start.” He suddenly had an uncomfortable curiosity, wanting and not wanting to know if that was the first or simply the last time Darcy had.... “Did your father know about the incident at Matlock?”

“Certainly not!” Darcy looked away, his cheeks colouring. “After what you said I realised how I had shamed my father with my behaviour. I would not speak of the subject with him.”

“Surely he must have tried, though?”

“He did. Once. I was afraid he had learned of my indiscretion and I denied any and all interest in such immorality, as you had been so kind in telling me what would be the consequences had I continued.”

Fitzwilliam slapped a hand to his forehead. “Darcy, how could you have listened to me? I was only nineteen and, to tell the truth, probably envious as well!”

“Envious? Why?”

The Colonel marveled at the unpredictable innocence of the man. “Never mind.” Darcy, he knew, would dismiss it from his thoughts with that much ease.

“Is there anything else you feel I should know?” The patient tolerance was heavy in Darcy’s tone.

Fitzwilliam placed a hand on his cousin’s shoulder. “You’ve taught me a great deal, instead. I shall look forward to your wedding Darcy. She had better say yes tomorrow.”

There were a lot of disappointed faces at the breakfast tables in two houses the next morning when the skies opened up before the tea was served, drenching the land in several inches of cold rain. Water ran down the window panes in rivers while Jane and Elizabeth sat morosely staring out.

“Do not fret, my dear girls,” Mrs. Bennet clucked. “Between the three of them I am sure there is one very good, dry carriage to be had. They will still be able to come before long. Now get your breakfast before it gets cold.”

Mr. Bennet glanced up as his two eldest offspring returned to their seats, Lizzy pulling out her chair to slump dejectedly against its back. His expression changed from the usual disinterested vacuousness to a suggestion of guilt and remorse. The words he had used in their conversation the other day came back to haunt him, especially so in light of Jane’s engagement to Mr. Bingley. Now he had to wonder if Elizabeth had truly been serious when she announced her intention to marry Mr. Darcy. He made an attempt to gain her attention but she ignored him, choosing to butter a slice of toast instead.

“Sit up straight, Jane,” scolded her mother. “Mr. Bingley will not want a wife with a humpback.”

“They are already engaged, Mama,” pointed out Lydia. “It hardly matters now, does it?”

“An excellent observation, Lydia,” Mr. Bennet dryly interjected, “but it would not do to disillusion the man so early.” He was astounded when Elizabeth shot him a look of impatient disgust. His wife merely laughed, proving that her priorities would never change.

The family managed to get through the meal without further argument, Jane and Elizabeth afterwards retiring to their stations at the window to peer out upon the soggy world. Should the gentlemen manage to keep the appointment there would be no pleasurable walks to employ them. The thought of being forced to remain indoors with their mother and sisters did not sit well with either young lady, but most particularly with Elizabeth who had reason to look forward to something requiring a more private setting than would be available. The last thing she wanted was for Mrs. Bennet to orchestrate an evacuation of the parlour in order to provide the necessary opportunity!

At long last a carriage was spotted approaching the house through the sheets of rain obscuring the distance. Jane turned to her sister, smiling unabashedly, then pulled Elizabeth to her feet and moved them both to the settee next to the fire. There they would sit until the gentlemen were announced.

At least, that was the plan.

The parlour door opened sooner than anticipated and Mr. Bennet’s eyes sought out his second daughter. “Lizzy, I would speak with you for a moment. In my library. Now.”

She entertained the thought of refusing but quickly dismissed it for it would not do to make a scene while Mr. Darcy was entering the house. Without a word, Elizabeth vacated her seat, swishing past her father without a glance and preceding him to his inner sanctum.

“I will not keep you long, Lizzy. I know you are eager to see Mr. Darcy.” He retreated to the comfort of his chair, wishing that his daughter would at least sit down instead of standing like an erect sculpture frowning down on him. “When we last spoke of the gentleman I was not under the impression that you were seriously thinking of him as a marriage prospect. I believed you to be simply pursuing an avenue of vexation for your mother. In light of Jane’s engagement to Bingley, however, I am forced to reconsider our conversation. Do you really intend to marry this man, Lizzy?”

Elizabeth stood her ground, surprised as she was by her father’s address. “My intentions are to accept his attentions should he offer them, sir.”

Mr. Bennet snorted. “He appears more than willing to attend you. Mind what those attentions may be, Lizzy! I would regret parting with you for reasons other than mutual agreement.”

“Meaning?” She suspected where his remark was leading but did not want to give him that satisfaction.

“I do not wish to see your reputation compromised, my dear.”

“Have you been listening to Mr. Wickham’s scurrilous gossip?” Elizabeth cried, unable to keep her voice reasonably pitched.

“What’s this?” Mr. Bennet leaned forward, intensely interested. “What do you know of his conversation with me?”

Elizabeth collapsed into the window seat, her face in her hands. “Oh, Papa! How could you? That man is so evil and he has no qualms about spreading his malicious lies wherever he goes!” Her tears threatened to spill until, quite unexpectedly, she felt a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Lizzy,” her father said very softly. “Do not distress yourself so. I did not believe his tales nor did I allow him to spin many of them in my presence. My concern was that others will no doubt have heard Mr. Wickham’s accusations and will not look upon your association with Mr. Darcy in as unjaundiced a way. To be forced into marriage through the machinations of gossip is something you do not deserve.” He kissed the top of her head as her sniffling subsided.

Elizabeth gazed up into his face. “I do want to marry him, Papa,” she said very solemnly. “Mr. Darcy is a sweet and gentlemanly man who would not harm me. Please believe that.”

“I will make my own judgment as to his worthiness, Lizzy. If Mr. Darcy believes he will marry you then he will have to come see me sooner or later.” His smile was teasing, making Elizabeth laugh. “There now, do you feel composed enough to face this paragon that awaits your presence?”

“I want nothing more, sir,” she replied, feeling more confident than she had when arising that morning.

Georgiana gazed out at the dismal sight of rain and mud. She looked over at her cousin who, with a complete lack of concern, was stabbing another sausage and adding it to his plate. Her brother had not yet appeared at the breakfast table although she knew well enough that he was up and about. She had heard him grumbling about the weather and calling for his valet to polish up his best boots for the morning’s use. Still, he had not come downstairs. Mr. Bingley had little to say, caught between his breakfast and delightful thoughts of Miss Bennet, but he did take note of Georgiana’s dismay.

“The carriage will be warm and dry, Miss Darcy. Are you coming with us this morning?”

She shook her head. “I would not wish to be in William’s way today.”

“You wouldn’t be in his way,” the Colonel mumbled between mouthfuls. “He’s like an ox. Nothing is going to stop him.”

“An ox!” Georgiana frowned fiercely at him. “Such a thing to say!”

“How would you describe his stubborn determination, then?” Fitzwilliam smirked.

Bingley chuckled. “An ox.”

“Anyway,” continued Fitzwilliam, “I am going. Somebody has to make sure Darcy gets a minute alone with Miss Elizabeth and keeps that mother of hers occupied.”

“You don’t need to worry about that,” came a voice from the doorway. Georgiana gazed in shock at her brother’s appearance. He was impeccable and he was handsome but there was something else about him that lent an air of excitement. “Mrs. Bennet will be beside herself trying to empty the room of her non-essential daughters. If you come along then she’ll feel obligated to stay and entertain you.”

“Ah, quite right. I hadn’t thought of that.” His cousin reached for another sausage. “In that case, I’ll just remain here and have a little more to eat.”

Bingley was staring at his friend. “I say, Darcy, where did you learn to tie that knot? Can you teach me?”

Proudly, Darcy fingered his neckcloth. “It is rather eye-catching, isn’t it? Took me a while to be able to tie it properly but I’ll show you how.” He raised an eyebrow in the Colonel’s direction. “Are you interested as well?”

“Me?” Fitzwilliam looked horrified. “No, thank you! I’ve no use for such frivolities.”

Georgiana patted the seat next to her. “Are you going to join us, William?”

“Oh no,” he replied. “I ate earlier. I will have a cup of tea, however.” He cautiously sat down at the table, taking care to keep his distance from the syrups and jellies.

One cup of tea generally took a quarter hour to consume if one sipped it politely. Darcy’s preoccupation on this morning resulted in his tea left standing quite cold long after the others had finished their repasts. As it was only Bingley and himself to go to Longbourn, and the hour was still too early to set out, he tried to settle his restlessness by composing his thoughts and feelings into the words he was preparing for use. So caught up in his charting he was surprised to hear Bingley call his name more than once. He scrambled out of his chair, grinning like a schoolboy and rubbing his hands together in anticipation as they made their way to the waiting carriage.

The carriage was certainly dry on the inside and thankfully so, for when they arrived at their destination there was enough mud on the outside to disguise the colour of the conveyance. Bingley stepped gingerly down a mud encrusted step, Darcy following with more attention than his friend for he had absolutely no desire to spatter any part of his carefully chosen wardrobe. He looked down with distaste at the soggy paths around the house, lamenting the obvious; there would be no romantic walk in the gardens on this day.

Bingley reached for the bell only to have the servant open the door before his fingers touched it. She curtsied and invited them in, directing them to the parlour where Mrs. Bennet and most of her daughters were assembled. Just as Darcy was stepping through the doorway he felt a tap on his arm and looked around to see Elizabeth smiling at him.

“Good morning, Mr. Darcy,” she said in her most pert voice.

He immediately gave her a formal bow. “Miss Bennet, how do you do on this perfect morning?”

Her eyebrow rose, directing a question at him. “You consider the dull, grey drizzle to be perfection, sir?”

“Indeed,” responded Darcy, a light in his eye that had not been there before. “You must know that as a landowner it is of paramount importance to wish for weather that is beneficial for the crops, for how else do we obtain our incomes and therefore the yearly stipends needed to sustain us?”

Elizabeth shook her head. “Such nonsense at this hour! Come into the parlour.” She paused and said it again, this time in a low voice accompanied by a mischievous smile. “Come into my mother’s parlour, Mr. Fly.”

Darcy laughed, loudly enough to draw the attention of everyone else as they entered the room significantly long after Bingley. Mrs. Bennet’s head swiveled quickly, bestowing a nod of approval on her not so favourite daughter who was fast becoming more popular in her estimation by the minute.

With no option of escaping the house, Bingley was sensitive to his friend’s need for assistance in acquiring a few moments alone with Miss Elizabeth. During his brief tête à tête with Jane he communicated his plan to distract her mother and sisters to allow Darcy the necessary privacy. The rest was up to him and Bingley hoped he would make the most of it. He need not have taken the trouble, though, for the younger ladies really had no reason to continue their attendance and Mrs. Bennet was quick to agree to their requests to be excused. Bingley was relieved that his work was thereby reduced; he was sure he could easily manage to keep his hostess busy so that she would pay no heed to the second couple in the room.

Again his work was reduced as Mrs. Bennet, within minutes, thought of something requiring her immediate attention elsewhere. She politely excused herself, making sure to tell her daughters and their suitors that she would not be returning for at least a half hour. As soon as she had quitted the room Bingley and Jane moved as far away as possible from his friend and her sister, both for their own convenience and that of the other couple.

Chapter 8 ~ Fitz and Starts

Posted on Sunday, 14 August 2005, at 6:02 a.m.

Darcy was not shy; not when he had something on his mind. Fitzwilliam may have called him an ox, and the stubbornness was certainly there, but not the lumbering clumsiness associated with such a beast. With deliberate care and a gentleness born of his tender feelings for the lady, Darcy took her hand and held it between his strong, warm fingers.

"Miss Elizabeth," he said, his tongue caressing each syllable of her name. "Do you not feel a great desire for a walk in the sunshine?"

"The sunshine, sir?" Elizabeth, with astonishment, glanced at the window where the rain was still tapping on the pane. "There is nothing but overcast skies outside."

He shook his head slowly, smiling as if addressing a child. "The sun always shines where you are, Miss Elizabeth." Again his pronunciation of her name sent a shiver of anticipation down her spine. "Can I not entice you to take a turn with me in the garden?"

She watched his lips move but didn't really hear the question, nodding agreement in an absent fashion. Darcy helped her to her feet, ignoring the curious looks from Bingley and Jane as they left the other two alone in the parlour and closed the door behind them. Once in the hallway Darcy ensured that Elizabeth took a wrap to protect her against the chill.

When they exited the house they could see that the rain had lessened only slightly but Darcy's countenance was no less enthusiastic. "I recall a moderately sheltered path in this direction," he said, indicating the gardens off to the left. "Lined with flagstones, it is."

Elizabeth knew just the trail he had in mind, intrigued by his ability to remember it from one brief visit where he had seen it only in passing. He had a firm grip on her hand, leading the way like a boy on a treasure hunt. Their pace was not sedate, nor did he stop to admire the flowers, drenched as they were and bowed over with the weight of precipitation. The path widened a little and he came to a halt, turning to face her with their hands still joined.

Elizabeth looked up, admiring his handsome features while her heart did double time seeing the intensity in his gaze.

"Elizabeth." It was hardly more than a whisper, low and throaty. "From the moment I first saw you I was captured by the playfulness I detected in your manner. I thought, here is a lady unlike any I've met, a lady willing and able to enjoy life as do I." Her other hand was now clasped together with his, sharing the embrace of the first. Elizabeth could not take her eyes from his face. "I offer you all that I have and all that I am, a man at the mercy of the lady I love more than any other. Would you do me the very great honour and consider becoming my wife, my partner; to share my home, my possessions and my life; to raise children in a loving family and face the world each day side by side?"

Elizabeth had tried to imagine this man's proposal but the actual words, the pouring forth of his hopes and desire, caught her by surprise. When she was able to expel the breath she'd held, and draw another to speak, Darcy was already assuring her that she need not rush her decision. "My answer is in no way hastily given, sir," she promised him. "I can think of no other with whom I would be equally honoured to share my future. My answer is yes." She expected him to kiss her and was not disappointed. Instead of a modest peck on the cheek, however, Darcy slowly closed the distance between them, placing one arm around her so that his hand rested firmly on her back, the fingers of his other hand gently tilting her chin upward.

The kiss was unlike anything she had imagined, and Elizabeth had entertained a few fanciful thoughts since meeting Mr. Darcy. His lips were warm and soft with a hint of power in his use of them. She surrendered herself into his protection, knowing that nothing he would do or say could endanger her in any way.

"Where do you think they've gone?" Jane asked an equally mystified Bingley when fifteen minutes had passed with no Lizzy or Darcy returning. She glanced over at the window, confirming the inclement conditions on the other side.

"Perhaps to your father?" Bingley quickly corrected himself, changing the question to a statement. "They've gone to see your father, of course."

Jane gasped. "Has Mr. Darcy then proposed to Lizzy?"

"Just between you and me, that was his intention, yes. Do you think your sister will accept him?"

"Oh, yes!" laughed Jane, her happiness almost doubled now that her dearest Lizzy was also engaged.

"Excellent!" Their elation nearly culminated in a kiss but for a sudden and unwelcome screech from elsewhere in the house. Bingley jumped in alarm but Jane merely sighed.

"It is only Mama, although I wonder what has her so excited."

They could hear babbling begin where the screeching left off even though no words were discernible. Then the voice and footsteps drew nearer until the parlour door was flung wide and Mrs. Bennet hurtled into the room.

"Oh, Mr. Bingley! What is he doing?" she cried, gesticulating wildly and yanking at his arm.

"What? What?" Bingley tried to loosen her grip for her nails were digging into his flesh despite his jacket and shirt sleeves.

"What is it, Mama?" Jane shouted to get her attention.

Footsteps thundered down the staircase as Lydia and Kitty now joined in the excitement.

"Did you see him? What can he be thinking?" Kitty gibbered.

"He must be mad," Lydia twittered.

Mary sedately entered the parlour, admonishing her youngest sister's rudeness. Bingley still had no idea what prompted the commotion but was certain that Darcy was behind it. Since the two younger girls and Mrs. Bennet now had their faces pressed against the window he joined them to see what held their attention.

"Oh, Lord," he muttered under his breath. Whirling from the window he cast an urgent look at Jane and said, "I'll be back in a moment" before disappearing through the doorway.

Jane went over to the window and peered out. She giggled.

Elizabeth did not know what to make of him. One minute he was kissing her, passionately, and the next he -. "Fitzwilliam!" she laughed. "Do come back here. You will catch your death out there in the rain!"

Darcy shook his head, gleefully beckoning her to come to him. "It won't hurt you. I thought you enjoyed getting a little rain soaked?"

"A little, yes, but in the summer when it is warm!" She watched him dance a few steps, stretching out his arm to her again.

"Please dance with me, Elizabeth. I have yet to collect my two for today." His expression was entreating but the light in his eyes spoke of devilment. Elizabeth could not resist, however, emerging from the scant shelter of the trees to meet him on the lawn, stopping a few feet from him. Darcy made a formal bow and took her hand. "What does my lady favour? Something dignified or perhaps a reel?"

She looked down at the soggy carpet of grass under their feet. A reel would leave them spattered head to toe in mud yet the notion of pretending to be dignified while her shoes sunk into the ground with each step was even less appealing. She was spared the necessity of making a choice.

"Darcy!" shouted Bingley. They both looked up, startled by the sound. Bingley rushed over to confront his friend. "Darcy, what to you think you're doing?" he demanded.

"We are about to dance, Bingley."

"Dance? There is no music, Darcy!" He lowered his voice to prevent it carrying to the spectators. "You can't dance without music and certainly not out here. You know what people will think."

"I care not for others' opinions. Do you, Elizabeth?" He raised his eyebrows at the lady, who shook her head, amused and enchanted by the scene. "As for music, why Bingley! Can you not hear it? The rain itself is music; the rhythm of the drops on the roof, the whisper as they filter through the trees. Can there be anything more fitting?"

Bingley attempted to take hold of Darcy's arm but the man adeptly stepped away. "A ballroom would be more fitting, with a bevy of musicians. Don't make a spectacle of yourself, Darcy. Come back in the house at once." Again he made a move to grab the other man's arm.

This time Darcy laughed as he moved away. "Perhaps Miss Bennet would like to dance with you. I know I don't want to."

Elizabeth giggled at the absurdity of that image. She took pity on Mr. Bingley, though, and said that she would petition Mary to again provide them with some suitable music if everyone was inclined to dance... indoors.

Darcy clasped her hand to his chest and pledged to forsake his outdoor pursuit. As they followed Bingley back to the house he leaned close to whisper in her ear. "You have made me very happy. Have I convinced you?"

Elizabeth returned his gaze, twinkle for twinkle. "I believe you have amply demonstrated it, sir."

"I will see your father as soon as we get inside."

She looked upon him incredulously. "In your current state? Soaked, dishevelled and unruly; hardly a sight to recommend you!"

"I have your promise and your love, Elizabeth. What does it matter that your father think me deranged?" He winked, rendering her speechless. "Do you think your mother might object, though? She may be concerned that our children would take after my oddities."

Elizabeth found her tongue. "Do you have oddities, sir?" She grew so bold as to wink back at him.

Darcy tightened his fingers around hers, wishing he could kiss her pert mouth and then did just that.

"Mr. Darcy!" cried Mrs. Bennet who had anticipated their return, opening the front door and peering anxiously outside. She produced a handkerchief with practised ease and began fanning herself vigorously.

Mr. Bingley considered putting the object to better use in fanning Darcy to cool his ardour but wisely remained silent.

"What is all this uproar?" enquired Mr. Bennet, poking his head out from his library. "Ah, Mr. Darcy! Just the man I wished to see. Would you mind stepping into my room for a few moments?" When Elizabeth made to accompany him her father dismissed her. "No need for you to be here, Lizzy." He ushered Darcy in and closed the door before she could say a word. "Now," he said, looking the young man up and down. "Were you trying to give my wife a fatal attack of nerves by dancing out there in the rain?"

"No, sir," Darcy replied in his most solemn voice.

"You just suddenly had an urge to dance, is that it?" Mr. Bennet frowned skeptically.

"Yes, sir."

"I see." The older man's eyes narrowed for his third question. "You felt an equally sudden urge to kiss my daughter, too?"

"No, sir, there was nothing sudden about it. I have often felt tempted to kiss her but this time I gave in to the temptation." Darcy was not the least bit embarrassed by this confession. On the contrary, he anticipated the forthcoming discussion with pleasure.

Puzzled by the direct answers, Mr. Bennet shook his head. "Are you unaware of the consequences of such an action, of a gentleman kissing a gentleman's daughter in daylight and in full view of her family?"

Darcy nodded. "I believe marriage is generally considered to be the appropriate reaction and one to which I am not averse."

"Do not be hasty, Mr. Darcy," said Mr. Bennet, a smile beginning to form on his lips. "Marriage is not the only penalty." He was amused to see the younger man's shocked surprise at this announcement. "I believe we may reach an agreement without me having to sacrifice my dearest daughter to a man whose character I do not trust."

Darcy abruptly rose to his feet. "Do not trust! What do you mean by that, Mr. Bennet? I demand that you elaborate."

"Demand, is it? Who are you to be demanding anything? It is I and my Lizzy who are the injured parties, here, and by extension her mother and sisters, too. I believe you are in no position to make demands upon me, sir!"

Collecting himself, Darcy sat down again and considered how to turn this situation around. "I wish to marry your daughter, Mr. Bennet. That is why I kissed her."

Mr. Bennet's eyebrows rose. "A singularly unconventional way of going about it, Mr. Darcy. Most gentlemen propose to the lady rather than kiss her first and wait for her father to demand he do right by her."

"That is not what happened," objected the other man.

"Is it not? Pardon me. I must not have been informed you intended to court Elizabeth."

Darcy swallowed painfully. "Mr. Bennet, I request that you allow me to begin again."

Elizabeth's father folded his hands before him on the desk and leaned forward. "Begin again? Where would you like to start? Perhaps with kissing her?"

"No, no!" cried Darcy.

"You do not want to kiss her again?" He was astounded. "Why on earth not? The look on your face indicated that you enjoyed the offense."

Darcy sprung from his chair, saying, "I insist that we begin this conversation again from the start." Then he left the room, closing the door and leaving Mr. Bennet open mouthed in his astonishment. Not a moment later there was a knock.

"Yes?" called Mr. Bennet, tentatively.

The voice on the other side of the door said, "It is Fitzwilliam Darcy, sir. I would like to have a word with you if I may?"

He bade the gentleman enter and offered him a seat which Darcy accepted with thanks. Mr. Bennet stared at him; the man was as composed as if nothing had been said between them a scant moment earlier. "What may I do for you, Mr. Darcy?"

"I shall come directly to the point, Mr. Bennet. Since making the acquaintance of your daughter, Miss Elizabeth, I have developed an admiration and respect for her that far surpasses anything I can claim to have felt for another human being. Having confessed my regard to her I am pleased to say that she has accepted my suit and we await nothing more than your approval so that we may make plans to marry. I am hereby asking for your blessing for our match, sir." He sat very still, chin held high, gaze steady on the man sitting opposite him.

Mr. Bennet stared back. He scratched his head, frowned, tried to think of something clever to say and eventually sighed. "Lizzy has accepted your offer, you say?" Darcy bowed his head. "Well then, I..." His brow furrowed again and he shook his own head as if to clear it. "You have a most unique way about you. Has anyone ever told you that?"

Darcy's slow smile spread across his face. "I believe one or two have mentioned it. You have not yet given me an answer though, Mr. Bennet."

"No."

"Pardon me?" The expression on Darcy's face fell.

"No, I haven't." Mr. Bennet laughed. "I shall have mercy upon you, however. Despite my attempts to amuse myself at your expense I seem to have ended up confused, instead."

"I occasionally have that effect on people, I have noticed."

"Well then, Mr. Darcy." Rising and extending his hand, Mr. Bennet welcomed the young man into the Bennet family. "I hope you realise what you are in for."

There was much excitement to be seen at Longbourn that afternoon and into the evening. Mrs. Bennet was beside herself with glee at having rid herself of two daughters in less than a week and both to very wealthy young men. She immediately began plans for her remaining girls, although Mary presented the biggest challenge. It was no matter, she had plenty of time to work on changing the girl's attitude and wardrobe in order to take full advantage of the eligible young men sure to arrive for Jane and Lizzy's weddings.

Bingley and Darcy were finally ushered out the door to their carriage, the latter suffering a mild sniffling but nothing that a good hot bath would not cure. There was no opportunity for the intimate goodbye that the four young people craved, unfortunately. Mrs. Bennet was too caught up in praising the gentlemen that she neglected to remember that partings were a time to reaffirm those tender feelings of the couples and it wasn't until they were gone that she suddenly realised her mistake. What followed was a period of wailing self recrimination for her foolishness and a criticism of her husband for not reminding her. Mr. Bennet disappeared into his library as quickly as he was able for he had a letter to read which had arrived that afternoon quite unexpectedly from a distant cousin, the likes of whom was to inherit Longbourn due to an entailment. Elizabeth and Jane escaped to their rooms to delight in solitary contemplations of their happiness before meeting again for their ritual chat.

Bingley and Darcy were not so fortunate as to have time for the pleasure of musing on their lady loves when they arrived at Netherfield. Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam were impatient for news.

"There you are!" cried Georgiana, meeting them in the hallway before they had time to remove their coats. "You have been gone so long I trust that everything went well? Have you something to tell us?"

"You will soon have a sister," Darcy beamed.

She clapped her hands together, laughing. "Tell me more," she begged until her brother suddenly sneezed and she noticed his reddened nose. "William, don't tell me you played in the rain again?" He grinned sheepishly. Georgiana clucked her tongue in a motherly fashion, taking his arm and leading him to the stairs. "It's a hot tub for you and I'll have some soup sent up afterward. You are not going to end up with a cold this time!"

Fitzwilliam looked over at Bingley as his cousin's voice faded away. "Took your eyes off him for a minute, did you?"

"I didn't realise he had gone outside. However," grinned Bingley, "Miss Elizabeth did not mind in the least and that was when he found the opportunity to propose. I think it rather clever of him, actually."

"I'm beginning to appreciate Darcy's cleverness more and more of late," muttered the Colonel.

Epilogue

No wedding in Meryton's memory could surpass that of the Bennet sisters when they married Charles Bingley and Fitzwilliam Darcy. Despite a modest guest list, considering the latter gentleman's importance, the ballroom at Netherfield served the purpose and was decorated in such finery as Mrs. Bennet was sure it put to shame the amenities of St. James itself. Even Sir William commented upon the impressive array of flowers, food and trimmings to celebrate the nuptials, saying he had never seen anything superior.

The wedding breakfast was over, the guests laughing and mingling, sharing opinions and impressions of the happy couples' states of mind and futures. Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, after an excursion to the North, would settle at Netherfield. Mr and Mrs. Darcy had chosen to spend their first two months of married life abroad, in the romantic venues of Venice and environs, before returning to England and taking up residence at Pemberley. Georgiana Darcy and her cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, were a little nervous about Darcy being so far out of their reach for the first time but they had each consulted Elizabeth with their concerns and had been assured that she would be always in his presence.

Each gentleman's carriage had been outfitted with floral arrangements and boughs of greenery, parked outside the front entrance awaiting the newlyweds to board them. Darcy and Bingley stood together looking over the assembled guests and family, smiling in their satisfaction and joy. The time had come to depart and they merely needed their wives to get started.

Darcy nudged Bingley with his elbow.

"No," groaned his friend when he glanced to the side and saw Darcy holding out his hand. "Put that away."

Darcy was not so easily fobbed off. "I won't see you for several months. One more time?"

Filled with a dreadful image of Darcy petitioning people across Europe to humour him, Bingley denied the request. "I thought Elizabeth had you cured of this infantile behaviour." He called out to Mrs. Darcy when he noticed her approaching with his own wife, the urgency in his voice making her curious.

"What is it? Is there something wrong?" Elizabeth looked from one gentleman to the other.

"No," her husband replied.

"I hope you can keep him under control, Elizabeth. I certainly can't."

She laughed. "Whatever do you mean?"

Bingley almost pointed to his companion but immediately thought better of it. "Just look at him."

Darcy grinned from ear to ear, his hand held out to his wife. Elizabeth laughed again but spoke gently, "Fitzwilliam, dear, let us make our goodbyes first." He easily agreed, following her to the front door where everyone was assembled to wave them away. Bingley sighed in relief, wrapping Jane's arm around his own.

A hearty cheer was voiced when at last the four were seated in their respective vehicles and the horses were set in motion.

Darcy looked back over his shoulder, the open carriage affording an unobstructed view of the second one behind them. "Bingley's not watching."

"Of course not," Elizabeth replied, wishing to be engaged in the same distraction as her sister and new brother. Darcy had offered her his hand again, however. He was nothing if not insistent.

"Do you remember your promise?" he asked, his eyes flashing wickedly.

"I do. Do you remember yours?" she countered with a firm belief that hers was the better part of the bargain.

Darcy's hand brought hers to his lips where he caressed it softly. "I will never forget. It is not nearly so much fun without a crowd but... there is a time and place for everything and you will judge the appropriateness of the situation before I ask you to honour your side."

"This is a good time."

"Bingley was never so cooperative. I am so glad I found you, Elizabeth." He kissed her soundly then kissed her again, more gently and prolonged, nearly forgetting his prior interest. Elizabeth would happily have continued until they reached Southampton but Darcy did remember. He repeated the vow they had made in the privacy of the garden at Longbourn some weeks previous, pausing near the end of the recitation to let his wife finish it. "I promise to love, honour and...."

Elizabeth held his hand in hers and quietly completed, "To pull your finger."

It was surely the oddest beginning to a marriage that had ever been.

The End