Beginning, Section II, Section III

Part 12

Posted on Tuesday, 17 January 2006

When he found Darcy already gone, Bingley left word for Jane that he was returning to Netherfield. He rode home as quickly as he could. He found Darcy sitting in the Library, staring into the fire, deep in thought. Tentatively, Bingley called, "Darcy?"

Darcy closed his eyes for a moment and then turned to Bingley stiffly. Bingley asked, "What happened?"

Darcy managed a slight grin and choked out, "Somebody finally became angry with me for being presumptuous." He rasped, "My apologies, Bingley. I certainly had no intention of creating a spectacle. I... thought she..." He shook his head, not yet able to speak clearly. Darcy looked away.

*Oh, poor Darcy...*

Bingley was deeply distressed for his friend. He said, "I'm so sorry," and then asked anxiously, "You won't leave Hertfordshire, will you?"

Darcy shook his head. He said, "No. Not immediately." His shoulders slumped and he breathed deeply. He ran his hands over his head, straightened up and said, "No, Bingley. I'll not leave yet. There are matters I must settle before I could even consider leaving." His expression was serious and sad, yet determined. He continued, "I must beg your assistance."

Bingley nodded emphatically, saying "You know you have it. How can I be of service?"

Darcy smiled slightly and said, "Do you know the family of a Miss King? I need for you to introduce me so that I might warn them of danger to their ward."

Bingley paused for only a second before saying, "Darcy? If that danger is from Mr. Wickham I should appreciate it if you would warn me, as well. He is much in society with those I will soon call sister."

*Awww. Our little Bingley is growing up!*

Darcy nodded and grimaced. He stood and paced a bit. Finally, he said, "Yes, you should know what he is. I've told you previously he is no longer a friend, but I should say more." He took a deep breath, "The man has spread falsehood here that I refused to honor my father's wishes in granting him a living as a clergyman. In truth, when the living came available he asked for money in its place. He said that making sermons would not agree with him. Emphatically, I agreed. I'd known for years that he was not the sort that ought to be making sermons!" Darcy closed his eyes and shook his head again, looking pained. "After some time had passed he returned to me and asked for the living, too. When I refused to turn out the man I'd appointed to the position and grant his request, he asked for more money. I refused that request as well." Darcy looked pensive.

Bingley said reasonably and encouragingly, "It sounds as though you'd already discharged your father's wishes where he was concerned."

Darcy nodded. Then he continued, "I believe I have acted as my father would wish, were he to know the truth of the matter. As to Wickham, I know not how he lived from that time, only... that he is a wastrel and a gambler and a seducer." Bingley looked shocked. "I also know of at least one very young lady of good fortune and standing whom he attempted an elopement with, though they were found out in time." Darcy paused and thanked God for that once again. He looked uncomfortable as he added, "She was but fifteen, which must be her excuse..." Bingley looked at Darcy and nodded slowly, and then he looked as if he might ask a question, but thought better of it. Darcy met his gaze and nodded mute confirmation of his friend's suspicion. He continued in a slightly choked tone, "Such is his behavior that I have found myself uneasy to discuss it. I would not wish to expose any of the innocent people he has wronged."

Bingley sat down. "I can believe it, Darcy! It is indeed shocking. I will be more than glad to introduce you to Miss King's uncle tomorrow. We shall call first thing. May I have your permission to share this information, the principle part of it, with Mr. Bennet as well?"

*There. So, Darcy has entrusted Bingley with Georgiana's secret without anyone else knowing it. I went back and forth on whether he could even trust Bingley, but I figured he would. Goodness knows that if he has to trust gossipy Col. Fitzwilliam, he can trust sweet Bingley!*

Darcy quietly thanked Bingley and agreed. He smiled slightly in appreciation of the trustworthiness he could count on from Bingley.

Both were surprised when Hurst suddenly sat up from one of the sofas. He'd not seen any part of their communication, but had obviously overheard enough to awaken his sympathies. He walked over to the decanter and glasses and poured two glasses full. He handed Darcy one and took the second with him back to his resting place. Darcy nodded his thanks and drank.

Part 13

*Wide angle shot of Netherfield... we draw closer in... one window is lit by candle within despite the late hour... Inside, a man sits by the window... staring out into the empty night as though hoping he'll awaken soon from a bad dream. Sigh.*

Darcy did not sleep that night. He had gone to his room soon after forming his plans to visit Mary King's family the next day, unable to bear the thought of speaking to anyone further. He remembered Elizabeth's words incessantly. Mocking laughter rang in his head. At dinner time, Bingley checked on his friend and was politely rebuffed. Darcy took his meal in his room. He paced about for several hours, first in anger and then in resignation, and then finally sat down to write a letter.

*Yeah. A letter. That's a good idea! ;)*

Thinking back over their terrible conversation, Darcy finally recognized Elizabeth's hesitation when she'd accused him of ruining Wickham. She had sounded as though she had questions about the man and his claims. Now he must answer her questions, completely. While he knew well that Elizabeth had seen and heard Wickham's cruel mockery of him, he could not rest until he was certain that she would know all of the truth and sever that acquaintance completely. And while he agreed that he had been guilty of officious interference where Jane and Bingley were concerned, he wished to make sure that she knew the complete truth of that matter as well. It was not that he sought to clear himself of blame. His sense of honesty and justice demanded that he lay the complete truth before her.

*Ya know... an honest approach... and all that jazz...*

So, Darcy wrote down the whole of the truth of his dealings with Mr. Wickham. He considered every word carefully, wanting to be certain that Elizabeth would clearly understand. His first concern was to convince her to read his letter and that he meant to cause neither further offense nor further distress. Then he shared the facts of his relationship with Wickham and then of his dealings with Bingley regarding Jane. It took him hours to communicate everything he wished. Many times during the writing of the letter he had to stop and pace about his room, splash water on his face, struggle to choose his words and fight his emotions.

*Mmmmmm.... He, of course, had his jacket and vest off, his collar open and he looked disheveled, a tad wild, kind of vulnerable and absolutely yummy! To repeat... mmmmmm...*

He was nearly exhausted by the time he came to the close of the letter. He sat at the table with his face in his hands, emotions flowing over him as he tried to think how best to end the letter. Realizing it might be the last private communication he would have with her made it even more important to him that this ‘adieu' adequately reflect his feelings for her, without causing her further discomfort. He finally found the words.

After he finished the letter he sat down and stared out the window for a long time. The letter sat in his lap. He considered all that had happened and wondered about his future. He wondered how he would deliver the letter. He struggled not to dwell on his anguish. He considered what he should do next. Even the sunrise seemed cold to him as he faced the new day. But sadness was not the only emotion the rays of the sun lit in his face. He looked determined, both to see that cruelty was repaid and to protect others from giving trust where it was not merited.

That morning Darcy and Bingley set off on horseback for Meryton early. They went directly to the home of Mary King's guardian.

*Go, Darcy! Go, Darcy! (dance time...)*

Once Bingley had greeted the man and introduced his friend, Darcy set about the delicate business of warning the man of the very great danger to Miss King. His warnings were gratefully received, as that man had been becoming suspicious of Mr. Wickham on his own.

So it was that by afternoon the town was abuzz with more than one juicy tidbit of gossip.

The Bennets were lively enough that they'd always provided entertainment of one form or another. Usually it was the youngest that set tongues to wagging, though Jane's disappointment had enthralled them for some time. Today the exploits of Miss Elizabeth Bennet were the first topic of interest, however. It was widely known and much talked of. Thanks to her family's indiscretion, it was known that in a fairly short time she'd refused two eligible offers of marriage. While some had understood and applauded her refusal of Mr. Collins, all had wondered if she might come to regret that over time. Now, she had refused a man of tremendous wealth. Darcy was generally disliked and thought exceedingly proud, so, some people applauded his being set down by one of their own. But all were aghast that anyone could be so imprudent as to refuse a man of 10,000 pounds a year.

It was decided that Miss Elizabeth would never marry now. No man would be brave enough to ask for her hand again. They even went so far as to wonder how this event might affect the engagement of Mr. Darcy's best friend to the eldest Bennet sister. Evidence of such folly in a sister was damaging.

At Lucas Lodge the lively discussion was included in long, detailed letters to Mrs. Collins.

And now there was a second scandal to interest, scandalize and entertain the masses. Only this scandal was quickly leading a man beyond embarrassment and toward worse trouble.

Mary King was to go to Bath to the safety of a relative's house. Mr. Wickham had been informed that he was ‘persona non grata' as far as her family was concerned. The event so many had deemed a forgone conclusion, Wickham's marriage to Mary King, would not take place. Her guardian let it be known that Wickham had previously attempted elopement with a wealthy young woman of only fifteen. And there were several people in the town who now talked of Wickham's amorous advances to their daughters. With each minute that ticked by, the list of his indiscretions became more generally known.

As people's interest in this matter grew and questions about Wickham's behavior multiplied, numerous merchants worriedly let it be known that Mr. Wickham owed them rather large debts. They approached his Colonel for assistance. Meryton's shadier characters also surfaced to seek reparation of gambling debts Wickham owed. By nightfall, he had been publicly exposed as a mercenary debtor, seducer and gamester. As much as people had professed to admire him only the day before, they now reviled him.

*Fickle crowd, aren't they?*

For his own safety as well as a measure of censure, Wickham was confined to quarters. Wickham attempted to charm his way out of his predicament, but found it impossible. Colonel Forster told Wickham that as his present woes had begun with the testimony of a powerful gentleman his situation looked bleak indeed.

*Wickham was not laughing anymore.*

Part 14

Mrs. Phillips fairly ran to Longbourn to tell all the news. For the first time in her entire life Mrs. Bennet very nearly did faint from over-excitement. Mr. Bennet eagerly seized on this as a reason to see her confined to her room for the day, away from Elizabeth. Lydia wailed about the vast unfairness of the outcry against Wickham and Kitty echoed her sentiments. Mary intoned moral pronouncements about virtue, greed, and one's good name.

Elizabeth set off for a walk in the countryside about Longbourn in hopes of clearing her head and restoring her spirits.

As she had previously committed to do so, Jane called at Netherfield. Mrs. Hurst carried most of the conversation. Miss Bingley was still recovering from the news that Mr. Darcy had proposed to Elizabeth. All Miss Bingley seemed able to do was to shake her head and mutter, "Impossible; it ought to be impossible."

*Tee Hee!*

Mrs. Hurst was speaking of Wickham when the gentlemen of the party joined them. She stopped awkwardly. Darcy muttered to Bingley, "I shan't be able to enter a room without encountering such pauses for months to come." Bingley, his eyes on Jane, laughed lightly and clapped Darcy on the shoulder. Darcy sighed, greeted Jane awkwardly and moved to the window.

Jane was unable to meet Darcy's gaze. Elizabeth had told her all that had passed between the two of them. It was, in fact, nearly all the two sisters had talked of over the past two days. Jane's tender heart bled for Darcy's disappointment and the mistakes he'd made. She found it the most natural thing in the world that he should admire Elizabeth and only wished he had expressed himself better in the matter. As to his role in influencing Bingley to stay away from her those long weeks, she was yet uncertain as to her opinion. Bingley's continued friendship to Darcy affected her feelings much.

The sisters had reluctantly admitted to one another that the behavior of their family members was certainly not always above reproach, though neither of them liked to hear others refer to it the way Darcy had nor credited him for doing so. They had discussed Wickham's behavior and the public revelations about that man in horror and embarrassment. Elizabeth had cried to Jane about how mistaken and vain she had been. She realized that she had been prejudiced by her first impression of each man.

*Yep. That's right!*

Elizabeth was still angry and embarrassed. Darcy had admitted his role in separating Bingley from Jane. He'd spoken derisively about all the Bennet family and had approached her with such a proud demeanor as to amaze her. And then to have their exchange overheard!

For Jane, the most persuasive argument for Darcy's merit was the continued friendship her beloved Bingley shared with him. She pointed out to Elizabeth that Bingley was the one who'd first said she had ‘been misinformed' about matters relating to him. His influences had not been unknown to him. He knew who had said and done what where their happiness was concerned. Yet he still maintained his friendship with Mr. Darcy and had even asked Darcy to stand up for him at their wedding.

Beyond that, she had also been very impressed to hear from Hill that Darcy had seemed more concerned with Elizabeth's well being than his own after they'd been found by Lydia and the others. Knowing now the extreme pain and mortification he had experienced, she was EXCEEDINGLY impressed in recalling the way he'd looked after Elizabeth. Of course, on reflecting on his actions, Elizabeth had again cried.

As Jane was about to return to Longbourn, Darcy took an opportunity to speak with her alone. He asked urgently, "Miss Bennet, please forgive my impertinence, but I beg that you give Miss Elizabeth this letter. I would appreciate it if she would do me the honor of reading it. I hope it will explain several things. It is not meant to make her uncomfortable, quite the opposite." His look was so humble and so sad that she took the missive without hesitation.

*After all, she was a real sweetie! And hey, he looked... a little bit humble? Hmm...*

Jane delivered the letter to Elizabeth and left her in privacy to read it. Elizabeth stayed alone in her room for several hours. The information she read about Wickham came as little surprise, except, as it was more specific in naming Georgiana as the object of Wickham's schemes and deepened her abhorrence of that man. The details caused Elizabeth to regret her defense of Wickham and feel her own faults keenly.

The words Darcy wrote about his part in Jane and Bingley's separation took longer for Elizabeth to absorb. She read and reread each section carefully. He wrote:

*Note: He wrote many of the same things Miss Austen had him write... but with changes to fit our story... So, please read on!*

It was not till the evening of the dance at Netherfield that I had any apprehension of Bingley's feeling a serious attachment. -- I had often seen him in love before. -- At that ball, while I had the honor of dancing with you, I was first made acquainted, by Sir William Lucas's accidental information, that Bingley's attentions to your sister had given rise to a general expectation of their marriage.

Elizabeth recalled the night to which he referred. She struggled with her feelings as she recalled the words she'd spoken then on Wickham's behalf. She now thought that Mr. Darcy had borne her uninformed gibes with much civility.

From that moment I observed my friend's behavior attentively; and I could then perceive that his partiality for Miss Bennet was beyond what I had ever witnessed in him. Your sister I also watched. -- Her look and manners were open, cheerful, and engaging as ever, but without any symptom of peculiar regard, and I remained convinced from the evening's scrutiny, that though she received his attentions with pleasure, she did not invite them by any participation of sentiment. --

Elizabeth frowned and muttered, "No 'participation of sentiment!' What presumption!"

I was in error. I was misled by such error, to inflict pain on her, and your resentment has not been unreasonable.

Elizabeth paused and set the letter down for a moment to consider this. His words seemed somewhat generous in her estimation. She had reason to resent him, but other things had colored her expression of that resentment. Her vanity, her prejudice to him had added to the anger she felt on Jane's behalf. She breathed deeply and wiped tears from her eyes before continuing.

That I was desirous of believing her indifferent is certain, -- but I will venture to say that my investigations and decisions are not usually influenced by my hopes or fears. -- I did not believe her to be indifferent because I wished it; -- I believed it on impartial conviction, as truly as I wished it in reason. -- My objections to the marriage were not merely those which I yesterday acknowledged to have required the utmost force of passion to put aside in my own case; the want of connection could not be so great an evil to my friend as to me. --

Again Elizabeth had to pause. First the phrase "impartial conviction" held her angry gaze as she questioned Darcy's disinterestedness doubtfully. But then she read the phrase, "required the utmost force of passion to put aside in my own case" and had to stand and walk back and forth for several moments before she could read further. She pressed her cold hands flat against her flaming cheeks.

*If Darcy wrote to you about "the utmost force of passion" in description of his feelings for you, you'd react, too!*

She then found herself remembering the look in his eyes as he'd said, "My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." She swallowed hard and crossed her arms to repress a shiver. She swirled with conflicting thoughts and emotions. She continued reading.

Pardon me. It pains me to offend you. I will only say farther that, from what passed that evening, my opinion of all parties was confirmed, and every inducement heightened, which could have led me before to preserve my friend from what I esteemed a most unhappy connection. -- He left Netherfield for London, on the day following, as you, I am certain, remember, with the design of soon returning. --

The part, which I acted, is now to be explained.

Elizabeth read, first with apprehension and then growing anger as Darcy described how he had convinced Bingley that Jane did not care for him. The objections of connection and behavior his friend and sisters laid before Bingley were far overshadowed by his love for Jane. But the assurance that Jane did not love him, coupled with Bingley's reliance on Darcy's judgment, had kept him away.

In his letter, Darcy made it plain that any objections Miss Bingley or Mrs. Hurst had expressed were nothing to Bingley and that it was by his own doing that Bingley decided to stay in London. All of this was explained fully and without particular self-recrimination on Darcy's part.

There is but one part of my conduct in the whole affair, on which I do not reflect with satisfaction; it is that I condescended to adopt the measures of art so far as to conceal from him your sister's coming to town. I knew it myself, as it was known to Miss Bingley, but her brother was ignorant of it until after your sister called on Miss Bingley the first week of January. Though she was unaware of my presence I saw her as she was leaving. Her disappointment was visible in the set of her shoulders and in her face. I realized my error and the pain that I had caused -- and I regretted my actions. That evening, I found that I could remain silent no longer. I informed Bingley that your sister was in town and had called that day and I enlightened him as to the deception that had been worked upon both him and Miss Bennet.

When I wounded your sister's feelings, it was unknowingly done. I now share your joy that she and Bingley are to be wed. I see in my friend contentment and happiness such as I will never know. He is the best of men and most deserving of such happiness.

This, madam, is a faithful narrative of every event in which we have been concerned together; and if you do not absolutely reject it as false, you will, I hope, acquit me henceforth of wanton disregard of your sister's feelings and cruelty towards Mr. Wickham. I know not in what manner, under what form of falsehood, he imposed on you; but his success is not, perhaps, to be wondered at. Ignorant as you previously were of every thing concerning either, detection could not be in your power, and suspicion certainly not in your inclination.

I shall endeavor to find some opportunity of putting this letter in your hands. I will only add, God bless you.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY.

When Elizabeth finally came down for supper that evening, she was even more introspective than she'd been before. As Miss Austen put it: "Astonishment, apprehension, and even horror, oppressed her."

Entering the room, Elizabeth remained quiet. Jane went to her side and said, "Oh, Lizzy! You look so low!" She laid a comforting hand on Elizabeth's arm and led her to a seat. She worried that she'd done wrong in giving Elizabeth the letter. Her apprehension showed plainly in her expression and her manner. Elizabeth managed a wan smile of reassurance and squeezed Jane's hand.

Mrs. Bennet admonished, "And well you should! You'll never get married now, Lizzy! Marriage offers are not to be refused! First Mr. Collins, and now-- 10,000 pounds a year! I cannot believe you refused 10,000 pounds a year!!!" She continued on in this vein until Mr. Bennet finally grew impatient and urged her to leave off the topic.

Then Lydia asked, "Lizzy, how could you refuse so much wealth? If any man with that much money asked, I would marry him and buy lace and silks and beautiful gowns!" She laughed heartily.

Elizabeth replied quietly, "Money was not my concern." Mrs. Bennet, Lydia and Kitty all gasped.

*Lizzy the Radical!*

Mrs. Bennet shrilled, "Well it will be a concern when you end a poor old maid, Miss Lizzy! It is very fortunate for you that dear Jane has done so well. If we had to rely upon you we'd all end up turned out in the hedgerows by those Collinses!" Saying the name Collins led Mrs. Bennet's attention away from Elizabeth and toward that couple and the wife's family at Lucas Lodge.

As Elizabeth left after excusing herself she heard her mother going on about "those greedy, gossiping Lucases." She sighed and shook her head ruefully. Elizabeth returned immediately to her room and read the letter again. She sat down on her bed and held the letter to her heart, trying desperately to sort through her thoughts and feelings.

When Jane knocked at her door, Elizabeth invited her in with a voice yet quavering with emotion. Jane crossed the room quickly and hugged Elizabeth fiercely, saying, "Oh, Lizzy! Did I do right in giving you Mr. Darcy's letter?" She looked anxiously at her sister's wan face.

Elizabeth smiled and hugged Jane in return. "Yes! I cannot say that it does not make me uncomfortable, but I am glad of the letter. I do not believe I have ever known myself before." She looked at Jane steadily as the battle waged within her. Pride, a strange new protectiveness of Mr. Darcy and his privacy, fear of wounding her sister and her own need for someone to help her understand all that the letter's information roused within her heart; all these concerns warred fiercely. Trust in Jane finally won out as she whispered, "Would you read it?"

Jane looked taken aback, but she pulled her shawl tightly about her, nodded and read the letter. She was horrified by what she read of Mr. Wickham. She had never encountered such selfishness and mercenary behavior and hated to believe it of anyone.

*Dear, sweet Jane...*

The information about Bingley brought fresh tears. Though they had talked of their time apart, he had been so careful of wounding her as to minimize any and all descriptions of the deceptions worked upon them and the approbation of his family and his friend. He'd taken full responsibility for their separation-- blaming it on his own lack of confidence. Darcy's information confirmed suspicions that she'd only considered in her most forlorn moments.

In a wretched state of apprehension, Elizabeth watched Jane. When Jane finished reading, she addressed the less personal concern, saying, "How do you think of Mr. Wickham, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth sighed and looked very uncomfortable. She said, "Given Mr. Darcy's information and all the discussion in Meryton, how could I believe anything other than that I have been deceived? I find great fault with myself, Jane! I allowed partiality to blind me. Mr. Wickham was attentive to me from the first and Mr. Darcy so mortified me! I allowed my own prejudices to enter into my judgment of each." Then she wryly noted, "There must have been some great mismanagement of the upbringing of each of them, don't you think? For one to have all the appearance of good and the other to have all the actual worth is astonishing." She chuckled.

Jane tilted her head and asked, "And how do you think of Mr. Darcy?"

Elizabeth could not answer.

Part 15

Darcy knew that Bingley was eager for the first awkward meeting between him and Elizabeth to take place and for all unpleasantness to be forgotten. His friend was anxious lest their friendship be lost in the aftermath of his refusal. Also, Bingley wished for Darcy to stand up with him at the upcoming ceremony, even as his bride wished for her sister to stand up with her. So, it was only natural that Bingley should hope for the two honor attendants to move past their conflict. Bingley was even so optimistic and kind as to think that Elizabeth might change her mind or that the two would end friends.

Darcy held no such hope. Elizabeth's refusal had been filled not only with opinions created from Wickham's lies, but also with observations about Darcy's character failings. He did not anticipate overcoming her objections. He harbored no illusion that in knowing the truth of Wickham she would suddenly find Darcy appealing. The words she'd said had cut him to the core.

He ran from the memory of her words. He spent hours in the saddle, at billiard play, reading, settling business matters and other correspondence, walking about all of Netherfield, in games, in meaningless conversation with Bingley and the others, and engaged in any and every activity that would not leave him time to think on what concerned him most.

*Mmmm... lovely mental pictures... mmmm.....*

He attempted to put her words from his mind with all the activity of his waking hours, but they hovered at the edge of his consciousness. They came to the forefront of his dreams, those products of consciousness that he found himself unable to control. Try as he might, he could not go without sleep. And when he awoke, alone in the darkness, he could not escape.

*Sounds kinda spooky, doesn't it? I know. I know. Wrong story... ;)*

He still tried. Each day began with a long and vigorous ride on horseback. Ten days after the horror of the refusal, while riding, he came round a line of trees and saw a figure on foot in the distance. He slowed his mount to a quieter gait and looked again to assure himself that his imagination was not working tricks upon him. It was Elizabeth. She appeared to be reading a letter. He wondered if it could be the one he'd written. He stopped, uncertain of whether to try to speak or to leave. Finally he turned and rode away, his heart in his throat. He was not yet ready to face her.

She saw him riding away from her. The letter she was reading was not the one he had given her. Instead, it was an awkward, apology-filled letter from her friend, now former friend, Charlotte Collins, explaining that the visit she'd anticipated making at Easter could not be made at all. It seemed that she was not welcome in Kent and that Charlotte had been instructed to stop corresponding with her.

As Darcy arrived at Netherfield, he slowed in apprehension and then stopped suddenly as he realized the significance of the sight which greeted him. There was a large carriage in front of the house. He knew the livery well. It was that of the house of de Bourgh.

*Cue the Star Wars Empire Star Destroyer/Death Star theme!*

Darcy was unable to contain a groan of misery. He knew there could only be one reason for his aunt's sudden, astonishing and unforeseen presence in Hertfordshire. He did not relish the conversation to come. And he worried about how long she had been waiting and what she might have said. He knew that despite her professed beneficence, Lady Catherine de Bourgh was generally unconcerned with the comfort of others and often gave great offense. Her pride and conceit were disconcerting to many people. He paused as he considered that Elizabeth Bennet probably found him equally as arrogant as people found his aunt. He grimaced at that thought and handed off his horse to the groom, quickly striding into the house.

*Ah, the Darcy stride...*

Darcy entered the salon and cried out, "Lady Catherine! I do hope you have not been waiting long!"

A quick glance around the room showed Darcy that his aunt had been there long enough to cause general consternation. Bingley, Jane Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst all looked tense. Mr. Hurst had already passed out. Darcy also saw that his Cousin Anne- silent, as usual- and the clergyman Collins- not silent, as usual- had arrived with his aunt. Mr. Collins crossed the room in his uniquely abject and pompous manner, offering overblown greetings and nonsense talk. Darcy ignored the little man. He could see that his aunt was glaring at him, quietly simmering.

Lady Catherine stood, leaning against her cane. Mr. Collins hushed himself. She pursed her lips and pointed the cane at Darcy, "I am extremely displeased, Nephew. A report of an alarming nature has come to my attention, so I have come to take you from this wilderness." She stood a bit taller and tapped her cane against the floor for emphasis. The others flinched at the noise. "I have come to bring you to your senses."

Darcy calmly replied, "I appreciate the honor you do me, Aunt, and your trouble. But I assure you this visit was entirely unnecessary." He walked to her and offered his arm, motioning for them to leave the others. Darcy led Lady Catherine from the room and into the hall. She moved with him grudgingly and not at all as quickly, nor as far from the others, as he would prefer.

*The poor fellow just can't BUY privacy in this story...*

Lady Catherine banged her cane on the floor again and said, "Do not take that tone with me, young man! I am nearly your closest relation. I am also the mother of the girl for whom you are intended." She pointed her cane at Anne. Anne sniffed and looked down at the rug.

Miss Bingley whimpered.

*Tee Hee*

Darcy closed the doors from the salon into the hall. Lady Catherine continued loudly, "I'll not stand idly by while you are drawn in by an upstart country girl with no connections, no fortune-- and family in trade!"

Mrs. Bennet turned to Jane in great agitation, "What is that she says?" Bingley began to look indignant.

Lady Catherine continued loudly, "Mr. Collins has told me of her arts and allurements." Darcy started, caught somewhere between disgust, anger, amusement and disbelief. "And I know about girls today. They will drag a man and his family's good name through the mud without a care for honor or decorum. They will refuse a man they secretly mean to accept in hopes of creating suspense. They will do anything to secure a man of wealth and consequence. She may have thus blinded you, but I..."

Unable to listen to anymore of this, Darcy spoke sharply, "Madam, that is quite enough!"

Lady Catherine was shocked into silence.

*Woo Hoo! Go, Darcy!*

Darcy closed his eyes, drew a deep breath and whispered, "Enough!" He opened his eyes and stared at his aunt intently. His cheeks suffused with a deep blush. Then in a softer tone he continued, "I apologize for raising my voice. I know that is not... not... gentleman-like... but I'll not have you speak of Miss Bennet that way. You know nothing of her. Your fears and accusations have no foundation. First, because... she... will not have me." His voice broke slightly. "But moreso, because she is not at all the creature you describe. She is intelligent and principled and genteel... and honest. She is the daughter of a gentleman. Her mother... is..." He blinked and swallowed as he tried to think of a compliment to Mrs. Bennet, "devoted to her daughters' well being. Her family in trade is educated and quite civilized. Her sister, whom you unjustly offend with your manner here today, is one of the sweetest ladies I have ever met."

In the salon, Bingley muttered, "Hear, hear." Jane looked near tears though she struggled to maintain her usual calm exterior.

Finally Bingley decided to remedy the unfortunate acoustical situation. He turned to the others, "Shall we take a turn in the garden?"

*He so wanted to get away from the scene that he would probably have said that even if it had been raining torrentially, with lightning and thunder and hail and tornadoes and...*

Jane nodded gratefully. Bingley helped Jane up and then offered Mrs. Bennet his other arm. Mr. Collins and Anne de Bourgh scurried out with them. Lady Catherine looked annoyed as the doors opened and they moved past. Darcy asked a servant to please bring refreshment to the salon and convinced Lady Catherine to return to that room with him. When they entered the room they found the Hursts and Miss Bingley still sitting there.

Lady Catherine turned to the Bingley sisters and said, "Leave us, Mrs. Hurst and Miss... Miss..." She waved her hand imperiously at the two as Caroline looked at her angrily. Lady Catherine had met the Bingley sisters before. Yet she had never been able to remember Caroline's name. This day was no exception. The sisters curtsied and left, Miss Bingley muttering to herself. The unconscious Mr. Hurst lay where he had fallen.

Darcy sat facing his aunt and crossed his legs. He sat for several minutes and let her scold him.

*It was WAY too annoying to be recorded in detail here... Just think of a time you've been scolded for something that wasn't really bad... but you felt like you had to be polite... BLEAH!*

Finally, when he felt he had allowed her to speak quite long enough, he asked, "May I speak?"

She nodded angrily. He said, "Miss Bennet refused me. She explained her reasons clearly and fully. She will never accept me."

Lady Catherine said, "A good thing..."

Darcy glared, "However, this does not mean that I will engage myself to my cousin. I have never made such a promise. There is no understanding between us and never will be. I love her as a cousin only."

"Love?" scoffed Lady Catherine. She pursed her lips and shook her head.

"Yes, love..." replied Darcy softly.

*Cue the sad, romantic music... OR a cut of Tina Turner singing "What's Love Got to Do With it?"... Reader's choice!*

Lady Catherine jerked her chin and challenged, "And you say that you love this Miss Bennet?" He only nodded. She continued, "What is that to your duty? Have you known her all your life? Did your mother wish for you to marry her? Is she your equal in status and fortune? I say no! Anne is your destiny."

Darcy shook his head, "No, Aunt. She is not. It pains me if I offend you and Cousin Anne. But I will not marry her in order to avoid giving offense. I doubt if I shall ever marry..." Actually Darcy realized in that moment he was more likely to marry someone he did not love, but respected, merely for the sake of having an heir. It was a sad, stark realization.

Lady Catherine resumed her tirade and continued to berate him furiously. Finally, disgusted with his stubborn unwillingness to follow her advice, she called for her daughter and clergyman and carriage. Lady Catherine turned to Darcy before taking her leave and said, "Come to your senses, Darcy! You will see your destiny and do your duty by Anne. I am EXCEEDINGLY thankful that this Miss Bennet is aware enough of the difference in your situations to refuse to take you from your true path. See if you, too, can remember who you are and what you are meant for."

When she was gone, Darcy left the room and walked out to his favorite part of the park, by the trees where he'd encountered Elizabeth the day she'd come to tend her sister. He leaned back against the tree and sighed. In his mind's eye he saw the defiant tilt of her chin, the color in her cheeks, and the indignant sparkle of her eyes. He briefly smiled much as he had on that long-ago day.

But then he thought of Elizabeth's painful refusal..."your manners, impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others ... the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry." He closed his eyes against his misery and let his head hang for a moment before he turned and went back into the house. Darcy again kept to his room that evening.

As he finally fell to sleep he thought of Lady Catherine's parting words. He wondered who he was and what he was meant for.

Part 16

Mrs. Bennet could not contain herself for even a moment. On her arrival at Longbourn, she burst into the Library (a practice Mr. Bennet discouraged as much as possible) where Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet were reading in companionable quiet. As she removed her bonnet she cried, "Well, Lizzy! You have done it! Mr. Darcy is to be dragged from the county in disgrace!"

Elizabeth looked at her mother in surprise and apprehension.

Mr. Bennet raised an eyebrow and inquired dryly, "Mrs. Bennet, what do you mean by coming in here like this? I assure you that Elizabeth has not been about causing mischief for anyone; not even Mr. Darcy. She has been here with me for some time now."

Mrs. Bennet continued, "Well, I assure you she has caused trouble all the same, Mr. Bennet. We have just come from Netherfield Park. Our visit there was cut short by the arrival of Mr. Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh and her daughter. It seems that she heard of Mr. Darcy's proposal to Lizzy."

Elizabeth gasped. Mr. Bennet pursed his lips, "Indeed? Do you think Lady Lucas sent her letter to Mrs. Collins by express?" His eyes twinkled merrily as he smiled at Elizabeth. She struggled to grin in return.

*Probably looked more sick than amused...*

Mrs. Bennet put her hands on her hips. "Oh, you do delight in tormenting me! Never mind that! Lady Catherine, who is a very grand and elegant woman... Such jewels! Such a large carriage! Such beautiful clothing!"

Mr. Bennet interrupted, "Such rambling! Do you intend to tell us what this great lady had to say or are you done?"

Mrs. Bennet said, "Well! She was there to remind Mr. Darcy of his obligation to her daughter and to take him away forever from the peril of being entrapped by Lizzy!"

Mr. Bennet chuckled and said, "Ah! Refusing her permission! She is indeed a worthy patroness to our cousin." His smile widened, "Who would have thought that setting a man down could be interpreted in such a manner?" He turned to Elizabeth and teased, "Lizzy, you must desist from such obvious seductions at once!"

She smiled slightly and nodded.

Mrs. Bennet turned on her and continued, "You don't deserve to smile like that, Lizzy! You have put that nice Mr. Darcy through such mortification!"

Both Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth looked at Mrs. Bennet in surprise.

She continued, "You don't deserve the way he defended you! And he talked about how sweet dear Jane is and told his aunt about the devotion I give to my girls and their well being. Very gentlemanly, I think." She sniffed and whirled about, leaving Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet looking after her in wonder.

*Mr. Bennet realized in this moment that Darcy must REALLY be in love...*

Elizabeth turned to her father, "Would you please excuse me?"

He suppressed a laugh and nodded at her over his glasses. As she hurried from the room he said, "Try not to get any more young men dragged from the county! One per day is really quite enough."

Elizabeth found Jane upstairs in her room. Elizabeth said, "Mama tells us you had an eventful visit at Netherfield." Then she sat next to Jane and said, "To think Mr. Darcy had to bear with a reprimand from his aunt on top of everything else..."

Jane looked down and blushed in remembrance. Then she said, "I was very sorry for Mr. Darcy." She looked away and then said, "I find that he improves on closer acquaintance, Lizzy."

Elizabeth asked, "Then you forgive him for keeping Mr. Bingley from you?"

Jane turned back and looked into Elizabeth's eyes. She said, "I have discussed the matter with Mr. Bingley. But for Mr. Darcy, neither of his sisters would have let him know I had called. They would have continued to deceive us. Indeed, I am grateful to Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth nodded pensively and changed the subject. "What was Lady Catherine like? What did she have to say?"

Jane blushed scarlet. She stammered, "Oh... oh... she... s..said... Oh!" Elizabeth took her hand and smiled encouragingly. Jane said, "Well, she had heard of his proposal to you. She had objections."

*Ah, Jane? Bit of an understatement?*

Elizabeth grinned, "Well, so did Mr. Darcy! Where is the problem? You would think they would end in perfect agreement!"

Jane shook her head and said, "I know what passed between the two of you, Lizzy, but I think he has thought the better of what he said. He raised his voice to her when she spoke of you slightingly. He told her that you were intelligent, principled, and honest. He said that you are the daughter of a gentleman. Then he said some very nice things about us as well..."

Elizabeth lay back on the bed and closed her eyes, groaning.

Jane's eyes grew large. She asked, "Are you well, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth groaned, "Why? Why? Why couldn't he have talked that way to me instead of going on and on about the difference in our situation? Why did he talk about our family so badly? Why did he make me so angry?"

Jane asked, "If he had spoken prettily would you have accepted him?" She smiled.

Elizabeth sat up and playfully swatted at her with a pillow, saying, "Of course not! But... oh, I don't even know. It's just making me... wonder..."

*Go on. Wake up and smell the hottie, Lizzy!*

Jane said, "Wonder? You mean because he is so nice?"

Elizabeth laughed ruefully. "It doesn't make me seem very rational."

Jane grinned impishly, "Oh, Lizzy! Since when have you aspired to appear rational?"

Again Elizabeth swatted her with the pillow. They both giggled. Then they both lay back on the bed. After a moment's quiet, Elizabeth asked, "What was Miss de Bourgh like?"

Jane turned her head to the side and smiled at Elizabeth in much the way Elizabeth was wont to smile when she teased Jane. She said, "Why do you ask? I don't think this is adding strength to the notion of you being rational."

Elizabeth merely replied, "Hmph." She endeavored to disguise her jealous curiosity.

*She did not do very well...*

Jane took pity on her and said seriously, "I saw no evidence of any particular regard on either Mr. Darcy or Miss de Bourgh's part, if that is what you mean to ask. Charles knew of no understanding between them, either. As to Miss de Bourgh... well, she is probably close to us in age, but she is very tiny and seemed sickly. She did not say two words the entire time we were together. Of course with her mother and Mr. Collins there..."

Elizabeth sat up and shuddered, "Mr. Collins was there! Oh, dear! That cannot have helped matters."

Jane looked embarrassed again as she said, "No. Not at all, I fear. Even when they left us we could hear their conversation. When Lady Catherine said that Mr. Collins had told her of your ‘arts and allurements' it was a dreadful moment."

Now it was Elizabeth's turn to blush. She said, "Oh, dear Lord! She didn't! He didn't! Oh, no!"

Jane said, "Soon after, Mr. Darcy raised his voice to her."

Elizabeth nodded. "I see." She frowned.

Jane glanced at her and remarked, "But don't worry. He apologized immediately for behaving in a way that was not ‘gentleman-like.'" She looked very innocent.

Elizabeth gasped, "Gentleman-like?" Again she groaned. She hid her face against the pillow. Jane only smiled.

*For you see, by this time Jane was pulling for Darcy to win her sister's heart.*

That night it took Elizabeth a long time to get to sleep. She tossed and turned, trying to make sense of recent events... and trying to create an accurate illustration of Mr. Darcy's character within her mind. Indeed, she had heard "such different accounts of him as to puzzle [her] EXCEEDINGLY."

*Author's Note: That's a direct JA quote. The caps are mine, though. For those who wonder at my emphasis the word EXCEEDINGLY, see the NY Times Article on JA Fan Fiction. While we were all delighted to see our obsession receive such generous attention, many were a bit mortified by the author's criticism that we strain to create the Regency flavor by overusing words like EXCEEDINGLY.*

Part 17

Posted on Tuesday, 24 January 2006

When they could spare time from planning their own happy future, Jane and Bingley spent many anxious moments discussing the best way to bring Darcy and Elizabeth back into each others' company.

*Kind of like many Dwiggies...*

They did not wish for the first meeting to take place before a large company of people, who would be speculating, whispering, gossiping and making the matter worse. However, they had apprehensions about reintroducing Darcy and Elizabeth in a setting that was too intimate. Most importantly, however, Jane and Bingley agreed that the meeting should take place without Mrs. Bennet or Miss Bingley present.

They also felt that the meeting should take place soon, to lessen the awkwardness. They were certain that two weeks was more than enough time for each party to have collected their thoughts and their civility. The fact that their wedding was fast approaching certainly played part in their plans.

So, one day when Mrs. Bennet was engaged to spend a day with her sister Phillips in town, Bingley insisted that Darcy (and Darcy only) accompany him to Longbourn. Bingley assured him that Jane was making Elizabeth aware that he might call, that Mrs. Bennet would not be present, and that they would not stay long. Reluctantly, Darcy agreed to go. He had no notion of what he might say or do during the call, but he accepted it as inevitable as Bingley and Jane were to be married in but two weeks' time.

He still found his heart pounding mightily when they were announced. He hoped his nervousness did not show and that he would act and look well enough.

*Rest assured, he looked FABULOUS...*

Entering Longbourn's parlor, Darcy saw that Mr. Bennet sat by the fire reading and the Bennet girls sat in chairs about the room. He found himself struggling not to stare at Elizabeth, yet feared that if he did not look at her at all he would be seen as angry with her. Thus, he ended up looking at her a great deal. He moved to a spot by the window, which gave him an excellent view of her.

Jane had asked that Lydia and Kitty agree to remain silent for most of the time and be on their best behavior, or be out of the way when the gentlemen arrived. Unable to bear the thought of missing any interesting interaction between Lizzy and the latest man she'd rejected, they remained. They managed to quiet themselves, but stared in a most obvious manner.

Elizabeth greeted Mr. Darcy very quietly. Her younger sisters giggled. She found it difficult to meet his gaze. She gave more attention to her needlework than it had ever received from her before, and consequently made more mistakes at it than ever before.

Jane served refreshments and did her best to set the company at ease. She discussed the weather and other innocuous subjects as far as she could. Then she asked after Georgiana. Mr. Darcy replied that his sister was well, blushed as he recalled what he had shared about Georgiana in his letter to Elizabeth, and again grew quiet.

Bingley asked, "When will she arrive for the wedding? She must come." His voice trailed off with hesitation as he considered the implications of his request.

Darcy looked hesitant and said he would write to Georgiana about traveling to Hertfordshire, though he could not be sure it would be possible. He still had no desire to see her anywhere near Wickham. He frowned at the thought. He privately considered forbidding her to come at all.

Lydia, who'd been silent as long she could, interrupted him, "Well, she certainly will not wish to leave London for Meryton. If it weren't for the officers there would be no excitement at all!"

*Oh, yeah. That should help Darcy feel better!*

Elizabeth stopped her needlework and cringed. She glanced at Darcy and saw that he looked as uncomfortable as she might expect.

Mr. Bingley laughed uneasily, "Meryton will suit her fine. She is an agreeable young lady."

Lydia assumed a wheedling tone, "She would like it better if you would give another ball at Netherfield, Mr. Bingley. That would be lovely."

Bingley nodded and said, "Well I won't have it said that I don't do everything I can to make my friends merry. But I cannot host a ball so close to the time of the wedding. So, I promise you, Miss Lydia, that your sister and I will host a splendid ball at Netherfield within two months after we return from our wedding trip."

Both Lydia and Kitty squealed in delight. Mr. Bennet winced at the noise and burrowed more deeply into his reading. Darcy was lost in thought, images of watching Elizabeth dance with other men filling his mind.

*Suffer on, Darcy!*

Bingley continued, "And since the idea owes its origination in part to Georgiana, you must promise to bring her and let her dance there, Darcy."

Darcy smiled slightly at his friend's transparent attempt to elicit a promise from him to return to Hertfordshire. His smile faded as Lydia said, "Oh, yes! We will introduce her to all the officers and have a merry time of it!" Lydia snorted. Darcy went pale.

Elizabeth spoke up, "I do not believe that Miss Darcy is yet out. These well-meant plans may come too soon for her to enjoy. Isn't that so, Mr. Darcy?" Darcy nodded silently and looked at Elizabeth gratefully. For a moment their gazes met and held.

*Not quite "the look," but still hot enough to melt steel.*

Lydia looked disbelieving. "Not out? Why ever not?"

Jane reproved Lydia, "Lydia! That is not your concern."

Lydia shrugged, "Well, that will mean one less lady to share the officers with!" She and Kitty giggled.

Mr. Bennet looked up from his book and said, "I doubt that there will be any officers to share by then, my dears. I understand that they are to remove to Brighton before the end of May." He would not have volunteered this information so soon were it not for the discussion of the ball.

Lydia gasped in horror. Kitty cried out, "Oh, no! No! It cannot be true!" Darcy saw Elizabeth breathe a sigh of relief. He couldn't help but be pleased by her reaction. She saw his smile and blushed. He tried in vain to catch her eye again, hoping to communicate somehow that he didn't blame her for believing Wickham's lies previously.

*Yoo, hoo! Lizzy! Look over here!*

Lydia wailed, "Our hearts shall break! Come, Kitty, we must go to Aunt Phillips. She will know if this terrible news is true or simply another of Papa's jokes." The two girls ran from the room, near tears. Mr. Bennet sighed happily and returned to his reading. Jane and Elizabeth both looked embarrassed. Mary simply buried her nose deeper in her book.

Bingley said, "Well, I for one am rather glad that the regiment will be gone. Then we shall be able to enjoy a more intimate gathering with our neighbors. I have never known such pleasant people in all my life. Regardless of Georgiana, you must agree to attend, Darcy. You simply must." His anxiety was obvious.

Jane spoke up, "Please say you will attend, Mr. Darcy. You are such a dear friend to my fiancé. I know he would miss you greatly if you were not there. Indeed, you are a good friend to us both." Her color was high as she looked at Darcy pleadingly.

*And how could anyone disappoint dear Jane?*

Darcy was surprised that Jane would speak so. Those who were learning to know his expressions well could see that in his face. He bowed to Jane and replied reluctantly, "I thank you and accept your kind invitation." He could not help but glance awkwardly at Elizabeth. He smothered a rueful chuckle as he saw that she was undoing some stitches, indicating that her concentration was perhaps not so focused as she'd hoped it to seem. She glanced up finally and they exchanged a look of sad discomfort.

*Oh, dear. There's that sad music again.*

Bingley smiled broadly, "Then it is decided! We shall host a ball in June."

The rest of the visit passed uneventfully. Bingley kept his promise to Darcy and the two departed after a short time at Longbourn. On leaving, Darcy bowed to each of them, lowest of all to Elizabeth.

As Jane returned to the parlor, Elizabeth said, "Well I am glad this first meeting is past. Now we will be able to meet as unconcerned acquaintances." Jane smiled, but nodded. Mr. Bennet only looked at Elizabeth and shook his head doubtfully. Elizabeth returned her gaze to her needlework lest she see the others' reactions or allow them to see her confusion.

Elizabeth knew that she and Darcy would be thrown together in company much in the coming days. There would be dinners and parties and a dance at Lucas Lodge, all in honor of the wedding. A part of her mind wished he would ask her to dance with him. She chided herself for such fanciful thoughts. She resolved to carry herself as politely and proudly as possible, and to ignore the gossip and stares likely to come their way. She hoped in time all awkwardness would pass.

When Mrs. Bennet returned from her visit with her sister, she was all aflutter. It was true that the regiment was for Brighton. She went on and on about the tragedy it was for the girls, remembering infatuations from her own youth. Elizabeth and Jane braced themselves for the outpouring of emotion that was sure to follow the return of their youngest sisters.

*But they certainly weren't ready for what was about to happen.*

On entering the house, Kitty was called immediately to the parlor so that their mother might condole with her and Lydia about the loss of the officers. Kitty entered warily. What first caught the attention of the others was that Kitty came into the room without a sound, not even a cough. Seeing Kitty's expression, Mr. Bennet set his book aside. Elizabeth and Jane stopped talking. Mrs. Bennet rushed forward and called out, "Whatever is the matter with you, child? And where is your sister?"

*Bang! Crash! Music of doom at top volume!!!*

Part 18

The next morning Bingley was to call at Longbourn early. Darcy decided to accompany him. He hoped that things might grow easier between him and Elizabeth as they met more. He still paid careful attention to his appearance, though he told himself it signified naught.

*Silly boy!*

It was immediately apparent on their arrival at Longbourn that something was very much amiss. Mrs. Bennet, wailing above stairs, could be heard from outside the house. The housekeeper looked nervous as she greeted them. When they entered the parlor they could see that both Jane and Elizabeth had been crying. Bingley crossed immediately to Jane and asked in great agitation, "What is the matter?!"

Jane sat down and started to reply, but could only begin to cry again. Bingley knelt by her. It was plainly evident that he wished to pull her to him and only restrained himself with great effort. Again, Jane tried to speak. She burst into tears.

Elizabeth stepped forward. Her voice thick with emotion she said, "Our sister... Lydia... has... left us... She has eloped." Her shame-filled gaze dropped to the floor.

Her obvious pain and humiliation were a torment to Darcy. He wanted nothing more than to comfort her, but believed that even were it acceptable behavior it would not be wanted by Elizabeth. Despite this, he stepped forward, took her arm and helped her to a chair. When she looked up at him in surprise he released her and stepped back quickly.

*What he didn't realize was that her surprise was as much from how much she liked his supporting touch... as it was from the fact that he had touched her.*

Bingley held Jane's hand. He said, "Oh, dearest. I am so sorry."

Mary Bennet spoke up. "This is a most unfortunate affair and likely to be much talked of. We must comfort each other as best we may, for no one else will want to have anything to do with us."

*Fordyce must have preached the virtue of stating the obvious. Don't you think?*

Jane sobbed. Elizabeth turned to her sister and said sharply, "Yes, Mary. I believe we have apprehended that. Thank you." Mary looked puzzled at her sister's tone.

Jane cried to Bingley, "How can you bear to look at me? The disgrace..."

Bingley's reserve gave way. He pulled Jane into his arms and held her close. He stroked her back gently and murmured soothing reassurance to her. He murmured, "I love you. I love you. You are the most wonderful woman. Nothing can change my opinion of you. Nothing can change my love for you." Jane's sobbing lessened as she relaxed into Bingley's comforting embrace.

*Collective Bingley Brigade Sigh.*

Looking at Bingley and Jane, Elizabeth felt very alone. Mortified by Lydia's actions, she avoided looking at Darcy. She struggled to control her emotions.

Darcy stared at Bingley and Jane starkly. His hands were fists, his body taut with frustration. In a husky tone he asked, "When did this happen? With whom? What is being done to recover her?" Elizabeth broke out crying anew. Darcy flinched visibly and forced himself to stand still.

*Restraint... suffering... Oh, Mr. Darcy!!!*

Mary, who looked taken aback by the familiarity between Bingley and Jane, answered him. "Why, with Mr. Wickham, of course. Undoubtedly the poor man had grown hopeless after a fortnight of confinement and with so many merchants calling for immediate credit payments. And as you may well imagine, Lydia was distraught at the thought of the regiment's departure. They ran away together last night. Mama says quite rightly that we are all ruined." She enjoyed the chance to command everyone's attention.

Darcy gasped. His expression hardened. Shock and anger were apparent in his face. Elizabeth looked up at him forlornly. Now he was unable to meet her gaze. Guilty, unable to offer her comfort and frustrated beyond measure by that fact, Darcy began to pace. He asked again, "What is being done to recover her, them?" His words were clipped, measured.

Elizabeth replied in a very small voice, "Our father has left for London this morning and will seek help from our uncle. They may be on their way to Gretna Green, but have definitely gone toward London; though as poor as she is... I fear... You know what he is." Darcy only nodded. "I do not know how they will be found. How are they to be discovered? Even if they are, how is such a man to be worked on?" Again, she burst out crying. While the fact of Lydia's infamous behavior had been known to her for hours, the full effect of what it must mean in the eyes of others, most especially Darcy, was fresh and exquisitely painful.

Darcy could bear it no longer. He walked over to Bingley and called him aside for a moment. The two men whispered together. Then Darcy turned to the others. He said, "I am very sorry. You have long desired my absence. I take my leave of you all. Miss Bennet, I shall return in time for the wedding. I hope that all will turn out well as regards your youngest sister in the meantime." Then he bowed to Mary and to Elizabeth. With one last long look at her, he turned and left.

She stared after him, tears flowing down her face.

Part 19

Bingley suggested that Jane and Mrs. Bennet go to London in his carriage and stay with the Gardiners. He felt there was reason to hope that Lydia's absence might be kept quiet. People might assume she was in London with her sister and mother. He suggested that they let it be known that Jane was having additions made to her wedding dress. The news would even add to peoples' favorable impression of the importance of Jane's marriage to Bingley (save, perhaps, the local seamstress).

*Even if all of this was Darcy's suggestion, Bingley was eagerly involved in preserving his new family's reputation. More growing up for him...*

Five days passed anxiously for Elizabeth, Mary and Kitty as they awaited the others' return. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and Jane finally returned home. They arrived without Lydia and in despair of ever recovering her. The girls held no hope for their sister's well being.

*Never fear. The long-suffering, guilt-ridden Mr. Darcy is on the case!*

Two days after their return, an express arrived from Mr. Gardiner. As it was raining outside, Elizabeth and Jane found their father in the library. He was pacing back and forth, muttering in disgust. Elizabeth asked breathlessly, "You have received an express?"

Mr. Bennet looked at her and at Jane and said, "Yes. Yes. I have heard from your uncle..." He motioned for Elizabeth to close the door behind her.

The two girls asked, "What news?"

Mrs. Bennet came in, shrieking. "News?! News?! What news? Have you had tidings of my poor Lydia?" Her curls bounced wildly.

*Lizzy just wasn't quite fast enough on that door...*

Mr. Bennet grimaced and said, "Yes. I have news of her. She has been discovered."

Mrs. Bennet squealed and said, "At last! At last! And are they married?" She grasped at Mr. Bennet.

He held her hand in his own briefly and shook his head, pained at her over-exuberance. He handed Elizabeth the letter and resumed his pacing. He said, "They are not married yet, but that is to change. Read it aloud, Elizabeth. I can scarce believe it." Mrs. Bennet looked affronted that he would hand the letter to Elizabeth. She collapsed onto a chair, nervously twisting her handkerchief in her hands.

With many interruptions from her mother, Elizabeth read the letter. Mr. Gardiner wrote that he and his wife would arrive the next day to join in celebration of Jane and Bingley's wedding. Mrs. Bennet called for Hill to have Mr. Gardiner's favorite dish prepared.

The runaways had been found. Lydia was to wed Mr. Wickham on this day. Mrs. Bennet shrieked in outrage that a daughter of hers should marry without her there... "Who will help her choose wedding clothes?!?"

They had been discovered in a boarding house in a rather unsavory part of London. Mrs. Bennet said it was most remiss of Mr. Wickham, that there ought to be many a better accommodation available.

Mr. Gardiner had reached a financial agreement with Mr. Wickham and pledged some reasonable payments on Mr. Bennet's behalf, Wickham's debts to creditors, and others in Meryton notwithstanding. Though the others looked very pained at this, Mrs. Bennet thought it well and good. She thought her brother should do so. She hoped he would also give Lydia and Wickham a nice wedding present.

As Mr. Gardiner explained, Mr. Wickham had "those among his friends willing to help him and purchase him a commission in a northern regiment" and would be leaving for the north in a few days with his new wife unless they were invited to visit Longbourn first. Mrs. Bennet squealed that she longed to see both Lydia and Wickham at Longbourn, despite the stormy looks of the others in the room. For to her thinking, "a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Wickham would be nothing but delightful."

The others thought it would be anything but delightful. But they gave way to preserve the notion that the Wickhams' marriage deserved recognition. Jane cried, first tears of relief that Lydia had been discovered, then tears of sadness over Lydia's new situation. Elizabeth sat with tears brimming and stared at her father. They did their best to ignore their mother and her mortifying outbursts.

Mrs. Bennet waved her hanky, cried out rapturously about how good it was to have a daughter married so young and said how pleased she was that Lydia had gotten such a handsome husband. The others were in awe of her idiocy.

Elizabeth said to Mr. Bennet, "I cannot believe he will marry her with so little money from you."

Mrs. Bennet said she thought it all that was right and good and that Mr. Bennet really should find a way to give them even more money to ease their path... The others were in awe of her idiocy.

Mr. Bennet nodded and agreed with Elizabeth. "He's a fool if he takes her with a farthing less than 10,000 pounds. And I should not like to think so little of him as that. No. I suppose your uncle must have taken a great deal upon himself. I cannot but wonder; how much did he lay out? And how will I ever repay him?"

Suddenly Mrs. Bennet heard what they were saying. She cried out, "10,000 pounds? You say my brother laid out 10,000 pounds? Why, that cannot be! Though he should do all he can for his own flesh and blood, he cannot have done this. It must be that nice Mr. Darcy who did this. He must be the friend Brother writes of who purchased Mr. Wickham's new commission. He's that wealthy. He left the county soon after we knew of this. He was in love with Lizzy. He might know how to find Mr. Wickham, having known him all his life. I don't know what you are speaking of, but it is perfectly clear to me that he must be the one behind Lydia's good fortune..."

*The others stared at her- in awe of their own idiocy.*

Part 20

Darcy was exhausted. He'd barely slept since arriving in London the previous week. Determination had driven him through the days and nights. Now, he planned a long sleep. Oddly, he found it difficult to drift off. His mind was simply too occupied by recent events to settle peaceably. He turned on his side and stared toward the empty side of the bed. He closed his eyes and rolled the other way.

*Hmmm... wishing a pair of fine eyes were looking back at him from the empty side of the bed, no doubt!*

It didn't matter where he looked or what sound he heard. Nothing could drive the sight of Elizabeth's tears and the sound of her cries from his mind or his heart. He ached to hold her close and comfort her the way Bingley had held Jane. Truly, he ached for far more than that.

When Mary Bennet had talked of how hopeless Wickham had been made, Darcy had realized that their humiliating predicament, and the loss of Lydia Bennet, was all his own doing. He had given in to his anger and mortification and made certain that Wickham suffered. While he did not regret sharing information with the King girl's family, he knew his motives had been far from pure. His motives had included revenge.

And look what he had done! The result of his actions was nothing less than the ruin of Elizabeth's youngest sister. The previous afternoon he had forced Wickham to keep his side of their bargain, a bargain which had cost him much in terms of money. He had taken Wickham to the church and stood up to see him marry Lydia Bennet. Poor, silly child! She seemed full young on that day, to be sure. If only he could have come up with a better solution... But it could not be any other way. The two had been hidden away together since the night she'd left her family. When he'd found them she'd yet been in her night clothes. Marriage with Wickham was the only option left.

He thought of the words the vicar had said and the unknowing responses of Miss Lydia, now Mrs. Wickham. His thoughts flew briefly to how the new Mrs. Wickham seemed much in character like her husband's mother. Then he thought of the look Lydia had given her groom as they met at the altar. She'd seemed happy enough then. He drifted into sleep.

In his mind's eye, Lydia's features shifted until she became Elizabeth. And he stood there and watched as she married George Wickham. Then the church seemed to disappear and he saw George with Elizabeth, kissing her, being kissed by her.

*Ewwww!*

Darcy awoke with a start, sitting straight up and clutching the bedclothes. His heart was thumping. He leapt from the bed and splashed water on his face. He kept his hands there for a moment as he regained composure. Then he lay back down. He stared at the ceiling and pulled the covers up. Thankfully, at least that nightmare could never come true. He felt a stab of shame at his relief.

Fearful of returning to the nightmare if he fell to sleep again too soon, Darcy began to think of the coming days. He could not stay away from Hertfordshire. Bingley expected him. He would only do his best to stay out of the way of the Bennets. He was sure that they must blame him for what had happened and he did not at all wish to lessen the pleasure of Bingley and Jane's wedding celebrations.

So, he would return to Hertfordshire. After careful consideration, he'd decided that he ought to do as he imagined Elizabeth would in his place. He had asked Georgiana her feelings and preferences about attending Bingley's wedding, explaining as gently as possible that Wickham might be in attendance as he was now connected with the bride's family. She'd showed distress on hearing of Wickham again, but then collected herself admirably and thanked him for his consideration. Her reply had been eloquent on her desire to live her life without giving way on any plans because of Mr. Wickham. She wanted to attend the ceremony. Their discourse ended with him possessed of a new respect for his sister. He was also pleased to see that the fact that he'd consulted with her seemed to have given her new confidence in her judgment. Apparently, she needed such signs of trust from him. He arranged for Georgiana to arrive with their cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam the day before the ceremony in hopes it would spare her any chance meeting with Wickham. Thinking of these plans, Darcy finally slipped back into restless sleep.

The next morning, he set off for Netherfield. His ride began uneventfully, but he saw ominous clouds ahead. He spurred his horse on at a ferocious pace. The wind whipped his coat. The sky grew darker. He rode as quickly as he could. He felt a first drop of rain. He considered looking for a place to stop and take shelter. There was none. He felt another drop and another as the temperature perceptibly dropped. He saw Netherfield in the distance and he raced towards it. Lightning broke the sky and thunder sounded. Rain fell heavily, as in sheets.

*Gotta get him good and wet! While not at all purist of me, it does make for a mighty good visual!*

As Darcy reached Netherfield, a groom came running and took his horse. Darcy ran for the house and rushed through the door. He nearly bowled over the doorman. Thunder sounded again. The doorman helped him shed his hat, great coat and his jacket, all of which were completely rain-soaked and dripping water profusely. Darcy moved toward the stairs to go to his chamber and change. He paused for a second as he pulled at his sopping cravat. Wrenching it off, he turned his attention to his waistcoat, his wet fingers trembling over the buttons.

*Stripper music here...*

He nearly made it into his chamber, but was waylaid in the act of opening its door when the party touring the house came into the hallway from the other end. Mrs. Bennet shrieked, "Oh, Mr. Darcy! You sweet, dear man, you!" She rushed forward and grasped his hand in her own. He stood completely still, looking at them all in disbelief.

With Mrs. Bennet were Mrs. Gardiner, Jane, Kitty and Elizabeth Bennet. Also, Miss Bingley was with them, haughtily presenting the house to Mrs. Gardiner as was still her privilege.

Darcy swallowed hard and replied, "Please forgive me. If you will permit me, Madam, I was caught in the storm. I... I... should like to make myself presentable... I hope you are well..." He turned crimson as he felt the eyes of the others upon him and felt the water dripping down his body to the hallway carpet. From his vantage point he saw the expressions of those assembled before him. Jane had a gentle, welcoming smile on her face. Miss Bingley's mouth was hanging open, rather reminiscent of a fish. Kitty Bennet seemed to be staring at his chest. Mrs. Gardiner looked politely amused. Mrs. Bennet looked exceedingly glad to see him again.

He let his gaze rest finally on Elizabeth Bennet. Her eyes moved up to his.

*Up to his? Where from? Eh, Miss Lizzy? ;)*

He stared at her in embarrassed amazement. Though he'd imagined her features almost constantly every day and night he'd been away he realized now that she was lovelier in reality. His imagination only retained full recollection of a bit of the spark that made her so special.

*I'm experiencing sympathy for Joe Wright (P&P3 screenwriter) here. Though Lizzy is not ready I just want to have them kiss each other so much!*

Mrs. Bennet still stood holding to his hand. He heard the water in his boots make squishing noises as he shifted his weight. He choked out, "Thank you for your warm welcome, Mrs. Bennet. However... if you will please excuse me...I... I should very much like to change into some dry clothing...." He gently loosed his hand from her grip, bowed low, turned, and closed the door behind him.

Therefore, he did not see the way that Elizabeth looked at him as he fled.

When Mr. Darcy had left them, Mrs. Bennet turned to Mrs. Gardiner. "Such a handsome young man! Oh, to think... he might be marrying Lizzy this very week if she were not so silly. I can scarce believe it." Elizabeth's eyes darted to her mother. Miss Bingley's lips set in a harsh, angry line. Mrs. Gardiner looked surprised, as this was the first she had heard of such a thing.

Mrs. Bennet prattled on, "Can you believe she refused him, Sister? He has 10,000 a year, is one of the handsomest men you could ever meet and is kind enough to have helped recover our dear Lydia and help her and Wickham off to a good start. Oh! This next room is just horrid... Oh! I'm so sorry, Miss Bingley... I didn't mean... Well, I'm certain you haven't had a chance to do anything with it yet since you were away for so long."

Elizabeth stayed back and let the others leave her behind. She listened as her mother's words trailed off. She leaned her warm cheeks against a cool wall and sighed, her eyes closed. Her mother's constant reproach about her refusal of Darcy was wearing on her-- all the more because she was coming to regret him. Her cheeks still burned as she thought of the feelings his appearance had provoked in her just a moment before. She'd spent so many hours pondering his character that she'd nearly forgotten his appearance. He was a very handsome man and... well-formed. She'd vaguely realized before that he was an active man. His state of dishabille had revealed the muscular result of such exertions.

*Mmmmmm...*

There was a piece with a looking glass in it a bit further down the hallway, a candle lighting it in the storm-dimmed hallway. Elizabeth walked to it, gazed into her reflection and tried to order her thoughts as well as her outward appearance. She breathed in and out slowly, in measured fashion. She thought about the way Darcy had looked at her when they danced, when he proposed... and when she had last seen him. Even the way he'd observed her in conversation affected her very differently now that she understood he had observed her with interest instead of for fault. She saw color suffuse her cheeks.

But she understood how much he abhorred Wickham. That he'd done what he had done for Lydia was incredible enough, and a testimony to his good character. She was sure that he would never willingly connect himself so closely to that man as to ask for her hand again. He had many times shown himself to be a man of pride, much of justified by her current assessment. Her only choice was to accept that their relationship would be that of formal acquaintances. She felt she needed to quash any pangs of regret as surely as he must have already done.

Suddenly his chamber door opened again and he came out, pulling on a coat. She started. When he saw her there, alone, he stopped.

*Romantic music time!*

Darcy took a tentative step forward and said, "I apologize. I did not mean to startle you, Miss Elizabeth."

Elizabeth replied, "No! The fault is mine. I paused to rest. You could not have expected me to be here." She paused. "I am glad you are recovered from your journey." She smiled tentatively. She was a bit surprised by how her heart pounded and by how short of breath she suddenly felt.

He smiled back, pleased by her manner. He quietly said... "Thank you. I am... glad to see you... well."

Elizabeth grew serious and took a step toward him, "Thank you, sir. And... I... thank you! Your unparalleled kindness to my poor sister, Lydia..." She looked at him expressively and ducked her head.

Darcy's smile faltered as he realized she referred to his actions where Lydia and Wickham were concerned. He looked down and quietly said, "I do not seek your gratitude... I regret that you have been informed..." He looked confused, "I did not think Mrs. Gardiner..."

Elizabeth interjected, "Oh, no! You must not blame my aunt. My mother realized the truth of the matter. All my family owes you a great debt of gratitude." She looked solemn.

Darcy could not hide his surprise. He struggled to find words and repeated, "I do not seek your gratitude." He looked uncomfortable as he tried to think how to express his feelings. He did not want for her to feel manipulated, or even worse to be kind to him when she only felt gratitude and nothing more for him.

Elizabeth waited for him to continue. As he searched for words, the pause was dreadful to her. She began to believe that her previous harshness and her sister's foolishness had worn away his affection for her. She looked at Darcy anxiously.

At that moment Miss Bingley came towards them. She called, "Miss Eliza! We were wondering where you had gone. You must rejoin us. Your mother is asking for you." She curtsied quickly to Darcy and took Elizabeth by the arm.

*Elizabeth decided to go with Miss Bingley before she was dragged away bodily...*

Elizabeth curtsied to Mr. Darcy as well. He bowed low to her and nodded to Miss Bingley.

Part 21

The next day brought the newly wed Wickhams to Longbourn. Their arrival proved a trial for every member of the Bennet household. For Mr. Bennet, the added noise and silliness outweighed any satisfaction to be gained from the ridiculous behavior of the pair. For Mrs. Bennet, the arrival was a prelude to the upcoming separation, which was anticipated as being of the utmost hardship and cruelty. For Jane, there was sad awkwardness as she found that her sister remained wholly unconcerned with anyone's opinions regarding her elopement. For Elizabeth, the arrival of her sister and her former favorite brought a painful reminder of the deceptions that had been worked upon her and the prejudices he had helped create in her relationship with Mr. Darcy. For Mary, it intruded upon her solitary time of reading and practice. For Kitty, their arrival meant fresh opportunities to feel left behind in regards to her one younger sister. All in all, the Bennet household was less than satisfied with the arrival of the newly wedded pair.

*Of course, the Wickhams were oblivious.*

The arrival of the Wickhams also meant that Mr. Darcy would not attend some wedding parties which that couple was likely to attend. Many people in Meryton would not receive Mr. Wickham, though they knew nothing of the details of his elopement with Lydia. But Mrs. Phillips, for instance, would not censure her niece. Elizabeth noticed Darcy's absence there more than she had expected. She understood it and wished she could absent herself so easily. As she could not, however, she bore it as best she could. She maintained a seemingly happy façade not only for common politeness, but more so in deference to Jane's joy.

Mr. Wickham tried her patience and forbearance when Lydia was not near. He attempted to renew their former friendship and their critical discussions of Darcy. He was disappointed to find Elizabeth's opinions of Darcy altered.

*Most of us are pretty happy with that development, however.*

Bingley came to Longbourn every day, either to join them for tea or dinner or just to visit. His and Jane's excitement grew as their wedding day approached. Elizabeth found she did not enjoy the exuberance of Bingley and Jane as much as she would have expected. It left her dissatisfied with her own circumstances. One thing she did find interesting to observe was Bingley's cool demeanor towards Mr. Wickham. She saw that her father was highly diverted by this as well. She doubted that Bingley had ever attempted to treat someone with disdain before, but he was managing fairly well in his efforts towards Wickham.

*Though Elizabeth did not share her opinion with anyone, she felt sure that Bingley was following the faultlessly snooty example set by his sisters.*

As arranged, the Wickhams were to leave Meryton the day of the wedding for his new posting with the regulars in the north. Bingley would not welcome the couple to Netherfield, though he had softened on that point and would allow Lydia there so long as her husband did not accompany her.

The Wickhams would attend the ceremony at Longbourn Chapel.

The morning before the wedding arrived. Darcy was pleased to welcome Georgiana to Netherfield. She was chaperoned by her companion, Mrs. Annesley, and their cousin (her other guardian), Colonel Fitzwilliam. The Colonel was a man at ease in any situation and a man of good sense. He quickly realized several things. He realized that Bingley was an open, outgoing chap and deliriously happy about his upcoming nuptials. He realized that the Hursts and Miss Bingley were pretentious and boring.

*No matter how many people think they want to pair the poor Colonel with Miss Bingley I won't do it to him here, so put that thought right out of your heads.*

Col. Fitzwilliam was a good friend to Darcy and fairly attuned to his cousin's moods. Lady Catherine's quarrel with Darcy and Darcy's disappointment were not known to the Colonel yet. Even so, he realized that his cousin was not in good spirits... and for reasons beyond being forced to deal with Wickham. He noticed Darcy making painstaking effort to be more polite and sociable to people than he'd been in the past; servants, neighborhood ladies and gentlemen, exerting himself beyond any effort the Colonel had ever seen from him. When he saw Darcy broach a discussion of sport with an especially unpolished caller and maintain a polite demeanor despite receiving wildly ignorant opinions in return, Fitzwilliam was almost taken aback at the change in his cousin's manner. He wondered what it could signify.

Mrs. Annesley was not feeling well that evening, so she was urged to keep to her bed.

*I confess I really just dragged her along because I read that in Regency times a girl couldn't be considered ‘properly chaperoned' by just a man.*

They were expecting the bride-to-be and her family, except her youngest sister's husband, for a family celebration dinner at Netherfield that evening. The bride and groom would leave for their honeymoon trip immediately after the ceremony and wedding breakfast were complete. Fitzwilliam thought that Darcy seemed more tense and less attentive as the time for the family's arrival drew near. He joked, "Darcy! One would think you were the bridegroom from all of your pacing. Are you well?" Fitzwilliam was surprised by the peculiar expression on Darcy's face then.

Darcy had found that as the hour of the wedding drew closer his sense of dread of the event grew. He'd done his best to overlook Bingley's and Jane's bliss-filled interactions thus far, without giving any fuel to local gossip by showing his own feelings. But he could not but wish that tomorrow were to be his wedding day as well. That he and Elizabeth should stand together before the altar, but not be joined as husband and wife, seemed unnatural and well nigh tortuous to him. He knew she would look lovely and unattainable. And after the ceremony he would leave Hertfordshire, not to return until the ball he'd as he'd promised Jane, and thereafter to return as infrequently as possible. He would attempt to maintain his friendship with Bingley when they were both in town, but could not conceive of putting himself near Elizabeth again when she would never be his.

Darcy realized that both his cousin and his sister were looking at him, growing concerned. He'd left too much silence since the Colonel's question. He shook his head to clear it and replied, "I am well, Fitzwilliam. I did not sleep as well as I might have last night, but I am better now. I am certain that I will enjoy rest and solitude in town after this event is past." There was truth in his words.

Georgiana conjectured, "Perhaps being with so many people so much of the time is wearying?" She looked troubled. Darcy upbraided himself for causing her to worry.

He smiled, "Perhaps. I do prefer more solitude than I often get here."

*As noted, he's barely had any privacy in Hertfordshire at all...*

She nodded. "Mr. Bingley's joy overflows into much conversation, more than I remember from him over the winter to be sure. And his sisters have always enjoyed making conversation..." She looked a bit flustered as she carefully chose her words, not wishing to seem ungracious about their hostesses or their constant and overbearing chatter.

Fitzwilliam studied Darcy. He smiled at Georgiana's understatement and said, "Yes. There is a great deal of conversation. It is almost like visiting Rosings Park." Georgiana smiled at the Colonel, a glint of share amusement evident in their faces.

Darcy grimaced. "I do not know that I will do so this Easter." The others both looked at Darcy in surprise.

The Colonel chided Darcy, "What? And leave all of the pleasure of Lady Catherine's society to me? Darcy! Come now, what have I done to deserve such bounty?"

Darcy smiled wryly. "I have no fixed plans yet, Fitzwilliam. I will let you know as I see what my commitments will allow..." He was hedging and the other two knew it. He'd always made the visit to Rosings in the springtime. Though a reluctantly honored tradition, it was a mark of respect to his family. He knew he would probably still do it regardless of the unpleasantness he could expect, but he was not eager to commit himself.

*I wouldn't want to visit Lady Catherine either. Depending on the story/author she's everything from an eccentric to a witch. Surely there's a story out there where she's a mob boss, too. But for this story she's just an annoying busy body, still not fun to spend weeks in close quarters with!*

The Hursts, Mr. Bingley and Miss Bingley entered the room. The gentlemen bowed and Georgiana curtsied. Ever attentive to Darcy's sister, Miss Bingley said, "My dear Georgiana! You look lovely. It is wonderful to have you here." Georgiana shyly bobbed her head in return. They all sat. Miss Bingley continued, "I know you will be delighted with my soon-to-be sister, Jane. In many ways she reminds me of you; so lovely and sweet!" She smiled to her brother. Bingley wished he thought she really cared for Jane.

Georgiana glanced at Darcy and asked, "Who else will dine with us this evening, Miss Bingley?"

Miss Bingley carefully arranged the folds of her gown around her. She replied, "Well, the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, of course... and her sisters, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Kitty, Miss Mary... and Mrs. Wickham I believe." Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst both looked at Georgiana with undisguised curiosity. Darcy's eyes darted from one lady to the other. Georgiana only nodded, seeming calm. Miss Bingley added "And some aunts and uncles of the bride's will be here as well."

*Forewarned is forearmed.*

Col. Fitzwilliam asked, "And what are all of these ladies like, Miss Bingley? Are they friendly? Accomplished?" He cared not, but wished to ease Georgiana's way through the conversation. He was as diligent as Darcy to Georgiana's comfort and protection, and far more at ease in conversation than either of his cousins.

Miss Bingley pursed her lips and looked around. She felt her brother's attentiveness to her words. She said, "As I mentioned, my sister-to-be is delightful. Jane is lovely and refined and terribly sweet." She nodded to emphasize this. When the others did not say anything, she continued, "I cannot say that I know the other members of the family very well... I have never even talked with the youngest, I assure you."

Georgiana's curiosity caused her to ask, "What of Miss Elizabeth? Are you well acquainted with her, Miss Bingley?" She had been intrigued by her brother's written descriptions of that lady. He'd written of her in every letter for months, praising her intelligence and her wit and her tender care of her sister.

*Georgiana knew he was in love before he did!*

And after the Bingley sisters' comments about Elizabeth's interest in Wickham, Georgiana had been even more curious. Darcy carefully kept his expression placid, not meeting his sister's curious gaze.

Miss Bingley pursed her lips, perturbed that Georgiana should show any interest in Elizabeth. "I am fairly well acquainted with Miss Eliza." She peered at Darcy sideways, smirked, and said, "I remember when we first came here that we were astonished to find her a reputed local beauty. Mr. Darcy said he should as soon call her mother a wit. I assure you that is no compliment!" Georgiana was obviously surprised. Bingley scowled as his sisters laughed.

Darcy shifted in his chair, embarrassed by the memory. Miss Bingley saw her brother's expression and carefully continued, "But I suppose she improved upon him. She has many pert opinions and some think she has ‘fine eyes', though I see nothing remarkable in her appearance."

Darcy was about to reply, but lost the opportunity when a servant announced the Bennet family's arrival.

Continued in Next Section