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Posted on Tuesday, 15 January 2008
They stood around her with admiration in their eyes.
"You look lovely, Lizzy, as a bride should," said Kitty, her voice not untouched by emotion.
"Thank you, Kitty. I feel as if I might cry."
"Do not let your groom think that you are regretting you marriage," said Mary solemnly.
"That is indeed wise," Lizzy said with a smirk, causing the others to laugh as well. "Oh, I shall miss you all!"
Kitty made a last minute adjustment to one of her sister's curls. "You are traveling such a long ways from Longbourn, after all."
Lizzy's smile widened.
It was only a few minutes later that the bride was able to take leave of her sisters. She made her way to her father's room. He was sitting, as he had for most of the past two and a half years, in the reclining chair that the manservant could carry about the house as needed.
"Well Papa, here it is at last, my wedding day. Are you not happy, sir?" She kissed his forehead.
He blinked once and she could see the left side of his face approximate a smile.
"Do you believe when I say that it is only the very deepest of affections that has induced me to matrimony?"
Two blinks. She smiled. "Oh but it has Papa, I promise. The dearest affection for my parents and Kitty and Mary... and for Jane too. And for my dearest groom. He is the best man I have ever known."
He blinked again. Tears were welling in his eyes.
"Well Papa, I must go," she said, dabbing at his eyes with her handkerchief. "Am I a beautiful bride?"
He made a sound that would have sounded like a grunt to most but that Lizzy knew to be a definite yes. "Do not make me cry Papa. I know I shall enough today. Do not worry. They are tears of happiness." She was not lying. Her marriage was providing her with the best possible of futures, given the many grievances of the last three years.
It was always a mystery to London society that both Mr. and Miss Darcy remained unmarried. She was at the end of her second season and while she always had a host of suitors, she never let a single one within arm's length. As for Mr. Darcy, he seemed a lost cause, never looking at a woman except to find fault, and scaring away his sister's admirers with the full force of his arrogance, disdain, conceit, and it must be admitted, the considerable force of his money and connections. While this was deemed generally a problem by all the eligible young people in town, it was no longer news and the Darcys only maintained as full of social schedule as to befit their place in society.
Miss Darcy was still shy, and quite serious. While comfortable enough around the select society she was known to keep, she stood much in awe of her older brother deferring to his wishes on almost every point. However, without a suitor that seemed even in the least bit an attractive prospect, she was growing a bit bored with the routine. She longed alternatively to go home to Pemberley or to travel, rather than go to another London social event that her brother would despise. She always felt like an outsider watching her own life pass by in London and was happy the season was almost over. Despite everyone they met on a daily basis, she was as lonely as a girl of 19 with a paid companion, a loving brother, and several cousins could be.
They were sitting together, alone in the library of their London townhouse as they often did. She was reading news of society and he was reading correspondence.
"Brother, did you see that Mr. Bingley has married?" she said, a bit wickedly. Bingley had been like a brother to her at one point but the two men had had a falling out over two years before and had not spoken since. She had never heard the story properly from her brother- for he had always refused to tell it.
"Has he?" He didn't even look up.
"Yes, to the eldest Miss Bennet of Longbourn."
This time Darcy looked up. "He has finally married her then. I hope he has found happiness."
"Brother, don't you think this feud has gone on long enough? Should you not send him a letter to congratulate him on his marriage?"
"If his bride is Miss Bennet of Longbourn, I doubt he would welcome my congratulations," he said without expression.
"Or we could call on them both when they come to London."
"This conversation is over, Georgiana."
For two weeks, Georgiana was in a rather foul mood. Her brother, if it was possible, had withdrawn further into himself, scarcely murmuring a monosyllable to non-relations. Her other guardian had become engaged to an heiress she knew he did not love and she had heard herself whispered of as "too proud for the likes of anyone not a Fitzwilliam." Like many young ladies, she finally decided that procuring a new bonnet might help her bearing, and she took the carriage with Mrs. Annesley to some of the more fashionable shops in London. It was at one of these that she spotted a woman she had known at one point, but had not seen in a very long time.
"Mrs. Hurst," she cried with warmth of emotion. "How are you? It has been far too long."
The older woman looked at her, surprised. "Miss Darcy. It is a pleasure."
Miss Darcy took a closer look at lady before her. While still quite fashionable, several lines graced Mrs. Hurst's face. She looked weary and seemed wary of speaking with the younger woman. The girl tried to smile. "I hear your brother has recently married. I offer my congratulations to your family on behalf of my brother and me."
Mrs. Hurst eyed her. "Truly Miss Darcy? I am sorry if I appear surprised. Their quarrel was rather severe."
"Well, I offer my congratulations. I don't know what it is our brothers quarreled about so long ago, but I feel it unfair that I have had to pay the consequences. You and Miss Bingley, I should say Mrs. Blake now, were some of the few acquaintances I knew well enough to call friends."
"Oh Miss Darcy, Caroline and I never meant to lose your friendship. We just thought it best given the situation not to call."
"Perhaps we should become reacquainted. May I call on you tomorrow at your townhouse?"
"Of course Miss Darcy," said Mrs. Hurst deferentially. "I would be honored."
"Will your sister be there?"
"I am sorry Miss Darcy, but she lives in Scotland with her husband now." Miss Darcy was slightly relieved. Mrs. Hurst was the kinder of the two women.
The ladies made their goodbyes and Georgiana left the shop without a new hat, but feeling elated all the same.
It did not take long the next day for Georgiana to ask Mrs. Hurst to relate all the events that led to their estrangement. Mrs. Hurst indulged her, though only after a long moment of considering the consequences. She told the younger woman of Bingley's attachment to the eldest Miss Bennet of a rather questionable family, and of their subsequent separation.
"And so you see," said Mrs. Hurst. Your brother and my sister conspired to keep him from knowing she was in town."
"Oh poor girl." Miss Darcy was growing rather upset with her brother.
"I'm heartily ashamed of knowing of it now, I assure you, especially in light of subsequent events. But you must understand, none of us understood the depth of feeling in the case. It was this separation that led to the disagreement between our brothers a year later."
"How did he find out?"
"Well, the summer after my brother left Netherfield, the youngest Miss Bennet ran off with a militia officer and despite weeks of searching, was never heard from again. This of course was a tragedy for the family, and had the added effect of harming permanently the Bennet reputation. The heir to the estate, a rather odious clergyman, wrote a letter absolving himself of all allegiance and duty to such a depraved family. Mr. Collins avowed he would not care for the widow and unmarried daughters if Mr. Bennet were to die. Of course the hurt reputation also meant that the four remaining daughters were unlikely to ever find respectable husbands."
Miss Darcy started at the mention of Mr. Collins. Certainly, the family might suffer from a ruined reputation but she had not thought her Aunt's clergyman to be so singularly cruel. Perhaps it was a different Mr. Collins?
"In the autumn, Mr. Bennet suffered a severe episode that left him confined to a chair. He is still alive to this day and mentally aware but can only move very slightly one side of his body. It was a great calamity to the family. They all thought he was not long for the world."
"Oh no!" Miss Darcy was aghast that so much tragedy could befall one family.
"Yes indeed, and their misfortunes did not end there. In December, Miss Bennet took ill. Somehow, although the news of the other misfortunes had not reached him, my brother did hear that she was not expected to survive the winter. He realized his mistake, rushed back to Hertfordshire, declared his love for her and begged her to marry him. Her only wish was that he take care of her family in any way he could, to do his best to help her father, to watch after her sisters, and make sure her mother was not reduced to poverty. My brother, who was truly sorry for abandoning her the year before, agreed with all of his heart."
"It took her two years to recover enough for them to be married?"
Mrs. Hurst laid her hand on Georgiana's, tearing up as she spoke. "Jane Bennet died two years ago in January, Miss Darcy. My brother kept his promise. He has recently married her younger sister, the former Elizabeth Bennet."
Posted on Monday, 21 January 2008
"Shall we, Mr. Bingley?" she asked warily. She looked down at her gown, smoothing it with her glove. She had spent hours deciding on the clothes and how to wear her hair. She had settled on her best blue gown that her mother had insisted on ordering from London before her wedding. It was a fine gown that reflected her new husband's wealth. This was an important night.
"Of course, Mrs. Bingley. Hold your head up, Miss Kitty." He took his wife on his arm, held his other arm to his sister, and confidently led them both into the Meryton assembly room.
The whole room took notice as Mr. Bingley presented his new bride to Sir William, who after a moment leaned over and kissed her hand, offering his heartiest congratulations. He nodded severely to his oldest son who asked Kitty for a dance. Mr. and Mrs. Bingley also took their place in line. The revelers took a collective sigh of relief. The Bennet girls had finally returned to their rightful place at the top of Meryton society.
"Georgiana, may I have a word with you?" Darcy asked harshly two mornings later, interrupting her solitary practice in the music room.
"Of course dear brother," she said, sighing while she resolved the chord. She was not about to leave a minor fourth dangling in the air due to his impatience.
They went into his study. He sat at his desk, his hands folded, staring down at her sitting in the opposite chair. "Georgiana, you have a strict schedule of social gatherings. You have a number of friends and relatives who I have expressly approved of if you wish to make a casual call. You do not simply meet with a woman in a shop and show up at her home without permission from me. Do you understand?"
She had often heard her brother criticize her acquaintances but he was usually just in his critique. She was mostly confused and more than a little upset when she answered him. "Mrs. Hurst was good enough to be one of our closest acquaintances three years ago when I was not yet out, brother. She is a kind woman and I enjoyed our visit."
"Her husband is a known philanderer. I do not approve of you visiting their home."
"That might make her situation more pitiable, but it has little effect on me. Louisa Hurst does not deserve your censure." Georgiana did not often fight with her brother. She usually had very little need.
"You have no respect for my feelings then?"
"I do not believe you have feelings, sir, not after the story I heard in the Hurst home." Georgiana spoke before she knew what she was saying and was more than a little shocked at her own outburst.
As was Darcy. "What lies did that woman tell you?" he practically spat out.
"Tell me brother, did you have your infamous fight with Mr. Bingley when Miss Bennet was only dying or when she was already dead? How dare you punish such a woman further after what you had done to her the year before?"
"What are you talking of? She was not ill. It was a trifling cold, a rumor meant to elicit sympathy. The Bennet family was trying every angle to restore their good name."
"Mrs. Hurst told me everything, Fitzwilliam. Jane Bennet died two winters ago. She was barely able to say goodbye to the man she loved."
"What are you talking of? You yourself read me the wedding announcement not three weeks ago! The eldest Miss Bennet of Longbourn!"
"The eldest surviving Miss Bennet of Longbourn! He married Miss Bennet's sister Elizabeth to fulfill a promise to care for them all!" She glared at him as he turned a shade of white.
"Please excuse me," he said softly. "I cannot see you now." He stood and turned toward the wall. She could not see his expression.
"I thought you were an honorable and decent man," she whispered, tears forming in her eyes as she left the room, closing the door behind her.
"How is your father today?" asked Bingley as his wife entered the house after a morning at her parents' home. He had finally bought Netherfield the year before, and was managing both estates with Mr. Bennet's blessing.
"Extraordinarily well! He said three recognizable words in a quarter of an hour!" She laughed at the small milestones she celebrated.
"My darling! That is wonderful." He picked her up and twirled her around, setting her on the floor with a light kiss. "What words?"
"Well, he swore once. He said ‘No.' And he said... ‘Jane.'"
"Jane?"
"Yes. You aren't upset?"
He paused slightly too long. "Why should I be upset? She was a treasure worth remembering. She is the reason I now have such happiness, my dearest wife." He hugged her tightly.
"I suppose," she said lightly, not quite knowing what to say. She would normally tease him when they became too serious, but he only smiled at her banter and never quite knew how to respond. She did not want to make him more uncomfortable now. She decided to change the subject instead.
"Kitty enjoyed the assembly. She talked of nothing else. She has missed so much of her girlhood these last year. Though that might be for the best..." Lizzy let the sentence trail off. Who knew what kind of girl Kitty would have become had Lydia not left their home so abruptly?
"Is there romance to be had between her and young Lucas do you think?" asked Bingley, sensing his wife's thoughts.
"No, she has learned to see through insincere affection these last years."
"With a vengeance I should think," he laughed. "She has become rather critical of my sex in general, I believe."
"She has become critical of us all. So different then the flighty girl she used to be. She, has perhaps, overcorrected her manner."
"You are severe on your family."
"They are your family now too, sir," she flirted. "Does it upset you?"
"No indeed. Next time we shall insist Mary attend."
"My sister Mary? You may have heard but she does not care to dance," Lizzy commented, as if he had never met her sister in his life.
"It would do her good to go out more."
"As you wish."
"Do you know what I wish?" he asked playfully.
"What is that sir?"
"I wish everyone were as sincere in affection as you are my love."
She smiled as he kissed her softly on the head. He was such a charmingly affable husband. He was not exactly what she had dreamt of so many years ago, but she was an adult now, and had long since buried the cheap, fleeting girlhood feelings she had known before.
"I truly love you Charles for everything you have done, do, and will do."
"I love you too, my Beth, for what you are and will be."
They embraced briefly as was appropriate for newlyweds in the public rooms of their home.
"What will you do this afternoon?"
"Go for a ramble in the spring air, I think. Everything is starting to bloom."
"I was planning to ride. Would you like me to walk out with you instead?"
"It's not necessary. But I will play for you this evening if you will sing with me, and I shall laugh only at your mistakes and ignore my own."
"An excellent plan." What an affable couple they made, he thought to himself.
Georgiana was beginning to worry about her brother. He had hardly spoken three words to her since they had fought. He had spent the mornings at his club, and his afternoons tending to business. She only saw him at meals, and he had failed to attend any social gatherings. The servants were whispering.
Most shocking of all was that he had not given her a single word of censure when Mrs. Hurst had returned her call two days later and had stayed for three hours.
While she had not told Mrs. Hurst of her falling out with her brother, she found she was able to speak to the woman as a friend. It was nice to have more than Mrs. Annesley to speak with for a change, as the older lady was growing somewhat deaf and now more often than not only smiled, and said little.
"Did you go to your brother's wedding?" she asked, when they had spoken enough about other topics the third morning. Mrs. Hurst smiled. The curiosity Georgiana was exhibiting was sweet. It was a romantic story, like that from a sentimental novel, exactly what a nineteen-year-old girl might wish to hear.
"I was the only one from our family that attended. It was a very quiet affair. Just Mrs. Bingley's mother and sisters. Her father, of course, could not attend."
"Is her family more amiable than you used to find them?" Georgiana could not help but ask.
"I'm afraid Mrs. Bennet is not someone I am proud to call a relation. She and her sister cannot help but be vulgar women. I'm afraid Caroline and I used to have much sport with them. Otherwise, Miss Mary, I should say Miss Bennet now, has become very docile and Miss Catherine very... reserved. Both have seemed to have made it through the most trying years. Miss Catherine is about your age, I think. I did not see Mr. Bennet, of course."
"How terrible to have lost two sisters in so short a time." Georgiana's voice fell to a melancholy tone.
"Well, they have just gained two sisters but I doubt they are happy about it," laughed Mrs. Hurst trying to lift the mood. "I know Caroline is not. It is convenient her husband lives so far north."
"Mrs. Blake still isn't pleased about the marriage, when so much has happened and so much time has passed?"
"Is your brother?" Georgiana's face fell. Mrs. Hurst then added quickly. "Old wounds fester my dear girl. Do not think too much of it. Our brothers need not be friends for us to visit. And Caroline may think what she may. It does not affect the happiness of my brother or Mrs. Bingley."
"Mrs. Hurst, I do not remember us enjoying each other's company so much when we met before."
"Life changes people," said Mrs. Hurst, thinking of her husband. "I am glad we are friends again."
"I am too, Mrs. Hurst." There was a pause. "Tell me, do Mr. and Mrs. Bingley care for each other? In the way that he used to care for the eldest Miss Bennet?" Georgiana was somewhat troubled by a woman having to marry for her family's sake and she wanted this particular story to end well.
"It is difficult to say," Mrs. Hurst replied. "They are certainly a more amiable couple than most. But romantic love is often an unnecessary luxury. No one who saw my brother and his wife together could ever find anything wanting."
Both women fell silent again, lost in their own thoughts.
Posted on Monday, 28 January 2008
"Mr. Bennet, do you approve of my decision about the dairy?" asked Bingley. He had gotten used to asking yes and no questions. There was no doubt that Mr. Bennet understood every word and Bingley had no reason to rob him of his right to make the final approval about events at Longbourn.
One blink.
"Very good sir, I believe that is everything. I will see you next week." He stood up and bowed. "Shall I send Miss Bennet in? She was planning to read to you for a time."
"Wait." It was garbled.
"Yes sir?" This was always difficult. Guessing the older man's thoughts could be trying of one's patience. Mr. Bennet's own wife had long since given up. Thus, the Master of Longbourn had finally attained peace and quiet in his old age.
"Jane." The word was mumbled but clear. Bingley frowned.
"Sir, the apothecary said you may be saying words you don't mean because your mouth cannot formulate your intentions. Do you wish to speak of your late daughter, now?"
Two blinks.
There was a pause.
"Of my wife, perhaps?"
One blink.
"Are you worried for her?"
Two blinks.
"Are you happy for her?"
One blink and some garbled words that no one but a close observer of Mr. Bennet would understand.
"I see. Do you wish to say anything else sir?"
Two blinks.
"Thank you, sir. She is my treasure. I will always care for her."
One blink.
"Should I send Miss Bennet in then? I promise she will read no sermons."
One blink.
"I will see you next week, sir."
He walked quietly out. "Miss Bennet," he called. Mary looked up from her reading. "Your father would like for you to read to him for a time."
She smiled. "I am happy I can be of use to him." Grabbing a volume, she rushed in, closing the door behind her. Mr. Bennet would be entertained, whether he wished it or not.
"I know you are, dear sister. I know." He leaned back against the door and breathed out audibly before noticing a small shoe sticking off the end of the settee.
"Miss Catherine, is that you? I did not see you there." The shoe disappeared, and soon blonde curls appeared over the top of it, followed shortly by the face of his youngest sister.
"Yes, I am here, Mr. Bingley."
"And what are you doing lying back here in Miss Bennet's sitting room? Do you not normally sit with your mother in the other parlor?"
"Mama thinks I have walked to Lucas Lodge. I have walked a distance, you see, but not so far as to see Maria."
"I see. Well then, I shall leave you then, at Lucas Lodge, where I did not find you."
"Thank you, Mr. Bingley."
"You are welcome. Oh, and Kitty."
"Yes, brother."
"Do fetch your sister out in an hour, will you? I would not wish her to hurt her voice reading for too long."
"Of course, Mr. Bingley. I understand. Give my love to Lizzy."
"I will. She would have you visit us, you know, when Miss Lucas is not available."
She smiled serenely, resting her chin on her hands on the back of the settee, looking every inch like her late sister. "Tell her I shall come tomorrow if Mary does not wish to ride the mare."
"I will. Good day Miss Catherine."
"Good bye Mr. Bingley." He watched as her head disappeared and the tiny feet reappeared on the edge of the settee.
Georgiana was playing and singing Darcy's favorite piece. It had been eight days since they had fought and she was beginning to be desperate for his affection again, despite her initial anger towards him.
She had gone over the situation repeatedly in her head. Her brother had been wrong, that was for sure, and had acted on his mistake without thinking through the ramifications. He had stubbornly maintained his erroneous opinion even when a simple appeal to his own common sense would have told him the situation was not as he had originally imagined it. She finally assured herself that her dearest brother had been guilty of a single transgression, made far worse by fate. He had contrived to keep two lovers apart-- at first because he thought himself doing a favour to a friend-- and continued to do so, because he was stubborn and prideful and would not admit that he had been in the wrong. Ignorance and pride, in this instance, were failings only made tragic by the circumstances surrounding the situation. She knew that a simple apology would not suffice with Bingley and his family, though she also knew she would not fully respect her brother again until he gave one. As for herself, her brother did not owe her any type of an apology-- only the assurance that he realized that he had been in the wrong. That would be enough, she had decided. But he would have to admit to his wrong, or he would lose her good opinion. And Georgiana neither bestowed, nor took back, her good opinion lightly.
At the moment, however, she had one simple goal. To make him talk to her again.
Having come to the end of the sheets, she flipped the pages back and began again. "Seventh time's a charm," she whispered aloud. Poor Mrs. Annesley had retreated to her room long before.
She had only gotten through the first couple of bars when he came through the door. He looked unwell. He had not come down for his meals all day and looked as if he had not slept the night before either.
"Your censure of me was deserved and I apologize for doubting your judgment. Do me the honor of reading this letter. I desire your opinion." He threw several pages down on the keyboard. She was too shocked to say a word as he turned, pausing at the door. "And stop playing that blasted tune."
His foot was resting lightly on hers beneath the table. They were sitting far enough apart, that she first thought it must be a mistake- her husband was not so tall that he could act in such a manner without sliding down in his chair. But as she looked up and caught his shy smile, she saw that he had sidled a few inches towards the corner of the table, so that his motion under the table was possible. The small breakfast table sat six, and it amused her that they were now sitting so close that it might seat ten. She glanced up at the footman, who was staring straight ahead, and, smirking, put her other foot on top of her husband's.
He grinned. "And how do you find your breakfast this morning?"
"Why, Mr. Bingley, I do think you must compliment the cook. It is an excellent meal, if I do say so."
"I would give credit to your management of the household. Everyone in this house thinks very highly of you." He moved his foot, so that both hers were using his as a rest. She was wearing thin shoes, and curled her toes a bit. His grin grew wider.
"And will you call on Mrs. Long this morning?"
"Yes, I shall. It is my duty, as Mrs. Bingley, to make regular calls."
"Oh, yes, your duty as Mrs. Bingley," he said clearly. "I do expect you to fulfill your duties as Mrs. Bingley. Regularly and with great punctuality." He winked.
One could hear a pin drop. Lizzy was not one to blush, but she could feel the red creeping across her face, as she searched for a retort.
"You know I have promised to obey you in all things," she finally managed with an arch tone that suggested she planned to do nothing of the sort.
He laughed, relieving the tension. "You do me great, honor, Ma'am."
"Well, now," she said smiling. "It is time that you ignored your wife and looked over your correspondence." She deliberately withdrew her feet, and placing them firmly in front of her, turned her attention to the remains of her plate. She dared not glance up at her husband for many minutes, for fear of the blush returning.
She was interrupted from her reverie by the sound of a glass hitting the table suddenly.
"What is it, my dear?" she looked up, sensing his shock. He held up a hand and hurriedly read the contents of one of his letters. She sat quietly while he alternatively grew agitated and calm. Finally, after many minutes, he handed her the letter, his hand shaking.
"You need to tell me what you think, Beth."
She looked at the broken seal and made a funny kind of grimace. "Well, this indeed is a most unexpected letter," she managed to say lightly. After looking again at her husband's troubled face though, she frowned, and started to read, her own breakfast forgotten.
To Mr. Charles Bingley,
Do not be alarmed, sir, at reading the contents of this letter. Rest assured, every statement in it is a reassurance of your own conduct over these past three years and a condemnation of my own. Please, do me the honor of reading this letter to the end and then I will understand if you do no more than burn it in anger and laugh at my feeble attempts to foist myself into your good graces.
Georgiana met your sister Mrs. Hurst in London shortly after your marriage and learned for the first time the truth of our disagreement. The hurt that this has caused her has made me rethink my part in the whole matter. My sister's accusations against me, though exaggerated, have for the first time shown me what a callous beast I was in regard to Miss Bennet and the situation of the Bennet family. When they deserved pity, I gave them only censure. When they deserved love, I gave them only heartache.
I have not seen any of the Bennet family since I said goodbye to your wife at the Hunsford parsonage in April of that horrible year. I imagine she has since told you of our acquaintance there. Her opinion of me was poor, as was fitting my behavior. Later I became acquainted with the youngest Miss Bennet's reckless elopement and even took part in the search to find her; she having run off with a man long acquainted with my family, his commanding officer had written me as part of the search to find them. I was terribly upset when she was not found.
Afterwards, I continued to feel, especially in light of the scandal, that your separation from Miss Bennet was for the best, for I had truly convinced myself that she did not care for you. As I told you at the time, I received an anonymous note in December saying that she was ill and imploring me to convince you to go to her. It seemed such a ruse-- one desperate attempt to get you back to Netherfield. I assure you that I did not know about Mr. Collins's callous determination nor Mr. Bennet's illness, which your sister has since related to mine. I had no idea of the dire straits the family was in or I might have softened toward your resolve. I had managed to convince myself utterly that Miss Jane Bennet was a fortune hunter and that stupid assumption has cost me my best friend, the respect of my own beloved sister, and I believe my soul itself.
Charles, please believe me when I say that I had no idea how ill Miss Bennet was. I did not know she had passed on. In fact, when Georgiana first gave me news of your marriage to a Miss Bennet, I thought that you had finally married her. I said nothing, but inwardly rejoiced that the sin I had so long ago committed had finally been rectified.
I suppose it is too late to give my condolences for one woman when you are newly celebrating with another, but I do. I must then offer my belated congratulations on your marriage.
Your wife is the best of women. Indeed, in my whole life, I only hold her against my sister as the most intelligent, forthright, honorable, and accomplished women of my acquaintances. I extend my apologies to both of you and hope you will allow me to someday call on you as a new and indifferent acquaintance. I know I would not have the right to call you friend.
For what it is worth, and I imagine it is worth little to you both, I invite you to my London home or to Pemberley for a stay of any duration you wish. I would love for Georgiana to know both you and your wife, so that she may have examples of Christian charity from people so much better than I. Your wife once told me I was arrogant and disdainful of the feelings of others. Had I listened to her then, my life would be so much better now. Tell Mrs. Bingley that I am belatedly taking her advice to be a better man.
Charles, you were the truest friend I ever had. I beg for your forgiveness.
Humbly yours,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
She read the letter and looked at him in amazement. There was too much to think about, and not just about the argument between her husband and his friend.
"What do you think, my Beth?"
"Charles, there is something you should know about my past dealings with Mr. Darcy before I give you my opinion."
"Well, what did you think?" he asked as he joined her for breakfast for the first time in days. It was an unusual thing to see him in such a state, unsure of his own mind and action.
"I posted it this morning before you could change your mind," Georgiana said calmly. He raised his eyebrows slightly. She deliberately spread butter on her toast, ignoring his reaction.
He hesitated and finally said firmly. "Well it is done, and it is done for the best. Are you calling on Mrs. Hurst this week?"
"Tomorrow morning. Why do you ask?"
"Will her husband be there?"
"I doubt it highly."
"May I accompany you? I should like to pay my respects."
"Oh Will!" she jumped up. Her knee struck the table as she rose and there was an audible sound of the dishes as they hit its surface again.
"Be calm dear sister. Do not cause a scandal."
She ignored him, rather rushing to embrace him where he sat. "Fitzwilliam, I am so glad you have come back to me!"
Posted on Monday, 4 February 2008
They walked out into the shrubbery, wishing to stay clear of the many servants who always seemed to be in earshot. It was a grey overcast day, and spring was in the midst of its long walk from pale to vibrant. Elizabeth was thankful that she had taken the time to put on her heavy shoes, although with every moment she didn't speak she grew more nervous. He was patient and said little, still grasping the letter in his hand. Her own hand clutched his other arm.
"Charles."
"Elizabeth."
"There is something I should tell you."
"Yes, you said that bit."
"Do not make this harder, dear husband."
"No indeed. I shall prompt you. Something about Darcy, I believe it was." He patted her hand reassuringly.
"Yes, well, Mr. Darcy and I are not the best of friends."
"I expect not," Mr. Bingley smiled. She relaxed a little.
"You know that bit as well I suppose."
"I do, indeed." It was almost a challenge, and it gave her renewed courage.
"Mr. Darcy was visiting his Aunt the spring that I visited Charlotte at the parsonage in Kent. One particular day I spoke to Mr. Darcy's cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam. He related how Darcy had purposely separated you and Jane. That knowledge made me quite angry at the time, and it later convinced me that you were too easily persuaded by your friend, even in light of your own character and conscience."
"You were correct in thinking so." He squeezed her hand, encouraging her to go on.
"That following December I sent you the anonymous note telling you that Jane was ill. It was a terribly improper thing to do-- but I was desperate. She had asked for you in her delirium. Did you never notice the handwriting?"
"You sent the note."
"Yes."
"I never noticed. The letter had already been misdirected twice and I knew I probably had little time to spare. I threw it aside and called for the carriage to leave London immediately. I only stopped at the Darcys to make my apologies. I was supposed to dine with them that night. My quick apology turned into a terrible disagreement."
"I thought of Mr. Darcy." she said. "When you did not respond, I thought that you had consulted with him and that he had told you not to leave London. I merely hoped he might relent and change his mind and allow you to come and say goodbye to Jane."
"You thought that little of me?! That I would ignore the feelings of a dying woman because he told me to!" he cried, but did not let go of her hands, instead squeezing them tighter.
"I thought that little of him." She stared him in the eyes until he relented his grip.
"You never liked Mr. Darcy, did you?"
"Not from the start. He insulted me at the Meryton Assembly the first time we met---as you well know. His manners were deplorable. Wick... certain people in the neighborhood confirmed these negative feelings. And then I heard about you and Jane from Colonel Fitzwilliam. I hated him Bingley, more than I have ever hated anyone."
"I rather thought you liked each other. You were always sparring with each other. He was always staring at you. Indeed, he gave you far more notice than most women of his acquaintance."
"Well you were less blind than I. That day in Kent, the day that Darcy referred to in his letter..."
She stared at her husband. He nodded, waiting.
"He asked me to marry him. But in so doing, he insulted me, my family and my situation in life." She briefly described the proposal, every word still etched in her mind. "I returned the insult, hurting him in every way I could. I accused him of pride, arrogance, and conceit. He grew very angry and eventually took his leave. I never saw him again. Charles, I think he was so adamant in December against Jane and my family because of that day in April. He hated me-- and my family-- more than he cared for you and your happiness."
Mr. Bingley was shocked and hurt. He stood silent staring at his wife for a very long time. He had known she had had suitors before him but never thought his best friend was among them. And to ask her in such a way... He almost smiled- Darcy was a true neophyte with women if he had even considered such a proposal in all seriousness. "Well," he finally said slowly. "I was in a rush to forgive him. I had thought that we might invite him to Netherfield. But now I see we cannot, at least not now."
"I agree entirely."
"But such a letter cannot go unacknowledged. I know Darcy, Beth, and he has never humbled himself in such a way before. Perhaps he is taking your retort to heart. Perhaps the letter proves his regret."
"He has proven nothing. Words are not deeds, and his deeds did great harm."
"So we must make him prove himself," said Bingley. It seemed quite a simple solution to him. "What do you suggest?"
Lizzy considered for a moment. "Your sister seems to have been part of this change of heart. Let us say we write to her."
"Very well then. You make your calls. I will go over my business, and this afternoon we will write Louisa."
Elizabeth nodded. She would not think about Darcy until then. He would not affect their happiness. "And after supper, sir," she said, smiling wide. "You will instruct me in those duties you referred to at breakfast. I cannot obey my husband unless I know exactly what he has in mind."
He bit his lower lip. "Did I ever tell you, my dearest Lizzy, that you are the most insufferable tease?"
"My dear sir, we have been married three weeks, and you have told me such a thing only a half a dozen times, which means, I suppose, that I must try a bit harder."
"It is very good to see you again, Mrs. Hurst." The Darcys were Louisa Hurst's only callers that morning and had been ushered into the morning room with alacrity.
"Thank you Mr. Darcy. The pleasure is mine. Miss Darcy, it is good to see you again." Louisa gave Georgiana a questioning glance.
"Fitzwilliam expressed a wish to see you, Mrs. Hurst, and I thought you might enjoy the company." With a measure of familiarity, Georgiana immediately sat near Louisa. Mr. Darcy remained standing.
"Do sit down, Mr. Darcy.... I am afraid Mr. Hurst is not in residence at the moment or he would be glad to see you as well. He is visiting a friend in ____shire." There was no mistaking her meaning.
"Ah, yes, do send my greetings. I understand ____shire is lovely this time of the year," said Darcy as he sat.
"Yes, it is. James has many interests there to keep him occupied."
There was a pause. "But Mr. Hurst is to return to London in a few weeks time," said Georgiana pleasantly.
"Oh, indeed?" Her brother tried to sound nonchalant.
"Yes.... though I am to travel into Hertfordshire to see my brother. The timing of our travels is so very unfortunate."
"Indeed," said Georgiana, smiling and nodding her head. "But the timing of these things cannot be helped." Darcy grimaced slightly. When did his sister become so knowledgeable about the ways of the world?
"I understand that Miss Bingley is lately married," said Darcy finally, ending the talk of Mr. Hurst. Mrs. Hurst nodded. The necessary understanding was out of the way. There was no need to mention her husband again.
"Yes, these eight months now, to a Mr. Frederick Blake. He has an estate near Aberdeen."
"That is quite far north."
"Yes, indeed. I understand ‘tis an extraordinarily large piece of land. Not much can be planted up there, you know. It's mostly good for grazing sheep."
Darcy had a sudden image of Caroline Bingley with a staff and sheltie and choked back laughter. "Indeed."
Mrs. Hurst noted his discomfort and rang for tea. "I understand that there is also some harvesting of the peat bogs," she could not help but add.
An image of Caroline Bingley sinking slowly to her death in a Scottish bog was more than Darcy could handle. He silently pleaded with Georgiana.
"What my brother means to say is that he is happy that Miss Bingley has found happiness in her new home."
"Yes, of course, excuse me Mrs. Hurst. Do send my congratulations to Mrs. Blake." He gulped. "And to your brother too. I understand he is lately married to Miss Elizabeth Bennet."
Herein lay the heart of the matter. Louisa looked from the hopeful sister to the humbled brother and smiled smartly.
"I am sure that he would prefer to hear those congratulations from your own mouth, Mr. Darcy."
"I have written him and hope to tell him in person, if he will welcome it. Do you think he might?"
Mrs. Hurst shook her head. "No, I do not. But the effort should still be made."
They stared at each other until it was clear that Darcy had silently acquiesced. At that point, Mrs. Hurst turned to Georgiana and asked her about some acquaintances they might have had in common. Darcy paid little attention, lost in his own thoughts, only looking up when Miss Darcy invited Mrs. Hurst to dinner on behalf of their entire household.
"You look lovely this evening." Bingley fingered the lace at her shoulder.
"Thank you, sir. You look fine enough in your new coat, but I am not uncertain that you are well aware of it."
"Now, now, Lizzy, your husband is not a dandy."
"Indeed not, that is not the failing of most men of my acquaintance." She meant to tease him but his mind went elsewhere.
"Yes, many of the men of your acquaintance have far more serious failures. Were you satisfied with the letter I posted this morning?"
"I am. Your sister is an intelligent woman," said Lizzy. "I am astonished at her cleverness. How do you think he will respond?"
"Shh, here are your mother and sisters now," said her husband, as they greeted the trio of women."
Greetings were exchanged and the ladies shown in.
"My dear son, this room is so very lovely. Are Sir William and Lady Lucas here yet?" Mrs. Bennet had gravitated towards her son-in-law as Lizzy stood with her sisters.
"No ma'am, nor is your sister. You are the first, and as my dear Mama, the most welcome," smiled Bingley.
"Oh, Mr. Bingley, you are so sweet. But sir, are you not afraid for your dinner party? Everyone should be here by now, for it is not the fashion to be quite so late."
"I am not concerned. If our other guests do not arrive, then we may spread out- for Lizzy had the women set the table for twelve, but if there are only five of us, we may have two plates each, and you and I, ma'am, may have a third each for ourselves. Now that will be a meal."
Mrs. Bennet looked at him wide-eyed. "Oh, no my dear Mr. Bingley. Do not go to such lengths for me, no. Two plates would suit me just as well."
"Oh, now I am afraid it will only be one plate after all. That is the Lucas carriage, is it not?" He nodded toward the window.
"Yes, indeed it is. We shall have a proper dinner after all. I was surprised when Lizzy invited us all to dine for a proper dinner. A sudden thing it was. Planned barely a few days in advance."
"Well you know me, ma'am. I have an idea in my head to have a dinner and we shall have one immediately. Your daughter is growing used to my impetuous nature, and was willing, so we sent out the invitations."
"Yes, well if Lizzy gives you any trouble, you must check her now. She has always been a forward girl."
"Oh, I assure you ma'am, that your daughter is the ideal partner for domestic bliss."
"I am glad to hear it. I always hoped that my girls might have such wonderful matches." Mr. Bingley smiled and nodded as she embarked on a long litany on his appropriateness as a husband to one of her daughters. One of her daughters, any of her daughters, would have done, he assumed. He was thankfully interrupted by Sir William, Lady Lucas, and Mr. and Miss Lucas, and did his duty in greeting them.
Maria immediately went to speak with Kitty and was soon joined by the latter's eldest sister.
"Kitty, it is so good to see you."
"And you Maria. But you look a fright. What is wrong?"
"Did I hear correctly that your Uncle Philips is bringing his new clerk to dinner tonight?"
"I believe so. We have too many women as it is, so Lizzy must invite young men when they make themselves available."
"Now Kitty, it was only polite to invite Mr. Edwards. He is a part of our Uncle's household," scolded Lizzy.
"Yes. Polite. You know Mama will have one of us marrying him in a month's time." Kitty scowled.
"And that is the problem," whispered Maria loudly. "I met the man yesterday in Meryton."
"And..?"
"Cross-eyed."
"Oh no," smiled Lizzy. "This is a true failing."
"And he lisps. And he is altogether uninteresting. And he has no connections or wealth."
"Which might have overcome the aforementioned eyes and lisp," finished Kitty. Lizzy shook her head.
"Oh, Lizzy, don't look at me like that. I shall be kind to the man. But you know how it will be."
"With my Mama, too," said Maria. "Perhaps we can foist him on Mary."
"I have no doubt my sister knows her own mind," finished Kitty in a whisper. Lizzy excused herself to greet her Aunt and Uncle and the poor Mr. Edwards, who she admitted, was hardly tempting in the slightest.
The evening could be called a success. The host was everything pleasant, the meal splendid and the guests well satisfied with the conversation. However, for the unmarried people in the room, it was somewhat of a strain. Mrs. Bennet, when she could, would push Kitty near Mr. Lucas and the two oldest women would continue to position the hapless Mr. Edwards with Mary or Maria, whenever they might. All three ladies were unwilling, and as two of three did not play, they could not use Mary's tactic- which was to offer to sit at the pianoforte after dinner. Then the clerk was called upon to turn the pages, but as he could not read music, he was rather hopeless at his duty, and Mary had to whisper to him when he might perform it.
All in all, the decided lack of romance in the attempted romantic entanglements was enough to make the newlyweds laugh for a full quarter of an hour after all of their guests had left.
"We must have another dinner again soon," said Bingley, as his sleepy wife leaned against him.
"And when my mother is next indisposed, you may name the date," laughed Lizzy as she yawned.
Darcy saw the familiar handwriting and retreated to his office, opening the letter with hesitation. It was neatly and deliberately written, with barely a blot on the page, rather unlike the Bingley he had previously known. Though the handwriting was Bingley's, the words might have been Elizabeth's. He could not tell. It certainly did not sound like Bingley. But what would they know of each other now? It had been over two years since they had last seen each other. Truly, no one in his acquaintance had seen Bingley in a very long time. The man was entrenched in his country home. His London townhouse had been let. Who knows what the man had become? For not the first time in a fortnight, he questioned his own decision to write a letter. He reread the letter in his lap, slowly this time.
Dear Darcy,
It was with great surprise that I read your letter. Given our argument and especially given the encounter between you and my wife that apparently memorable April evening, I can only imagine the pain and mortification writing it must have caused you. I am inclined to forgive you but for the sake of my young marriage, I do not believe this is the time for us to meet. I manage my estate as well as well as my father's and my wife must visit him daily given his many demands. We may not leave the county at this time.
If you are serious about our families reconnecting, I was wondering if you might allow my wife to invite your sister to accompany Mrs. Hurst next month to Netherfield. Mr. Hurst has interests in another part of the country and will not be in residence here. My sister adores Miss Darcy and would appreciate her company. In addition, Miss Catherine is Miss Darcy's age and I have no doubt they would form a fast friendship. Miss Darcy need not stay too long, perhaps a month, as I imagine she will wish to spend the bulk of her summer at Pemberley.
If you approve of this plan, please write immediately, and my wife shall inform Mrs. Hurst and make the invitation.
Yours sincerely,
He knew. Bingley knew about the proposal. Elizabeth had told him. Darcy deliberated the implications of the letter for some time, and finally rang the bell. "Barnes, will you locate Miss Darcy? I must speak with her."
"She has called on Lady ______ this morning, sir"
"Ah, yes, of course. Let me know when she comes in."
Posted on Monday, 11 February 2008
"How is my father today?" Mrs. Bingley asked. She sat with her mother, embroidering detail on a gown for Charlotte's long awaited child. There would be no chance of her ignoring Charlotte simply because the child's father had proven himself one of the worst sorts of men. Charlotte had lost a baby boy two years earlier. This new child, Lizzy determined, would be the olive branch that would heal the relationship between the two women.
"Oh, you always ask about him. He is always the same." Mrs. Bennet waved towards the direction of her husband's room dismissively. "But do you know what? Mrs. Philips called yesterday and what do you think she said?"
Lizzy shook her head. "I could not imagine, Mama."
"Bertie Long is to be married! And she a full year younger than Kitty and without a dowry to speak of! And she squints! Your husband should have some young friends come to visit. He has been most remiss in his duty to his poor younger sisters. They need suitors if they are ever to find husbands. And Mr. Collins shall throw us all out into the hedgerows! And then your Mr. Bingley will have to put us up. And not in a cottage either. It must be a proper house. Mr. Philips' aunt was put up in a cottage. Horrible little place. No room for a pianoforte and the roof leaked all the time."
"Mama, you don't play the pianoforte."
"Oh never mind that! You will tell Mr. Bingley, will you not?"
"Tell him what Mama?"
"Well, that he must invite some of his London friends to Netherfield! Then they may marry your sisters."
"We are to have visitors but not young men. Mrs. Hurst and her friend Miss Darcy are to come in a few weeks."
"Well that is no good at all!" Mrs. Bennet paused. "Did you say Miss Darcy?" she asked.
"Miss Darcy? Mr. Darcy's sister?" Kitty came into the room at that moment to take her leave before she walked out.
"The very one. Do you remember him?" asked Lizzy.
"Yes of course. He was in love with you and hated the rest of us," laughed Kitty. Kitty's laughter had grown less foolish but somewhat bitter in the years since her sister disappeared. The few men that paid her attention did so because of her reputation, not in spite of it and Kitty tended now to speak of men in rather scornful tones. Lizzy raised an eyebrow. She had never known that Kitty had paid any attention to Darcy at all, much less seen what only Charlotte Lucas had suspected at the time. Luckily, her mother did not choose to be silent.
"In love with her?" scoffed Mrs. Bennet. "He slighted her, don't you remember? Well I hope his sister is less proud and disagreeable than he, or you shall have a time of it."
"I am assured by Mrs. Hurst that she is a sweet, docile girl. You may like her Kitty. She is only a little younger than you."
"I shall be happy to have the distraction," said Kitty, glaring at her mother before she walked out.
"Well, at least this means you will have visitors now. Mr. Bingley has been like a hermit these last years. No young men at all! ‘Tis a shame. At least you finally secured him. Two whole years you made me wait!"
"Mama, we were in mourning for Jane. Besides, you would not have me attach myself to my sister's admirer so quickly, would you?"
"Dear Jane, everyone admired her. I lose my dear Jane and my sweet Lydia and I am left with only my three ungrateful girls. That you should be so lucky to secure a man with five thousand a year! Who would have thought it?"
Thankfully, the pianoforte could be heard in the next room at that moment.
"Mary, why must you play so loud?! My poor nerves!"
"Shall I call for some tea, Mama?" Lizzy asked calmly.
"So you are going then?" The Darcys stood in front of the townhouse watching the men finish securing the luggage on the Hurst carriage. Mrs. Hurst was already inside in order to allow them to say their goodbyes. Georgiana was in her tan and brown traveling garb, and looked quite grown up, her hat resting smartly at an angle against her swept-up hair. He winced, wondering when she had become a woman. It was only a matter of time before she was married and running her own household. He would be completely alone.
"Yes, of course brother," said Georgiana lightly, as she nervously fidgeted with her gloves. "I am bored with London and shall enjoy the new scenery. And I am curious to see the behavior that scandalized you so. Shall Mrs. Bingley run through Netherfield in only her corset and petticoats, snorting with laughter the whole way? Shall she romp with the dogs in full view of the house? Or, perhaps, she might actually enjoy herself at a social event. You would disapprove of that I know."
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet was the best of women. It was not her activities that ever shocked me."
"Oh do not be so serious. I was joking of course. Mrs. Hurst says she is a respectable young lady with true self-assurance. I shall have a wonderful time and represent our family well. And I shall speak well of you, whatever chance I get. And soon, you and Bingley shall be the same as you ever were."
"I doubt that Georgiana. I doubt that very much."
"Come now, Mrs. Hurst is waiting. Give me a cheerful goodbye. I shall see you at Pemberley within a month," smiled Georgiana, as he led her to the carriage. In truth, she was nervous, but it would not do to have her brother see it. Covering her nerves with light speech seemed to be a good solution. Did anyone ever tease her brother?
"Goodbye my dear." He gave her his hand, and helped her in. "Mrs. Hurst, have a pleasant journey." They smiled at him. He smiled back and shut the door on the ladies inside.
"There now, Mrs. Bingley," he said quietly, as he watched the carriage roll away. "I have overcome all of my objections and given you my most precious possession. The next step is yours."
"Kitty, do sit still. They will be here soon," said Lizzy watching her younger sister utterly fail to embroider. "Why do you not work on your blue bonnet instead? You never could embroider with any accuracy. There is no need to torment yourself."
"I know Lizzy. I should have brought down my drawing pencils instead. But my work is not very good and I did not want Miss Darcy to see my drawings."
"Nonsense. You have only been practicing for two years. They are very good."
"Aunt Philips says they are odd."
"And Aunt Philips is the expert on all feminine accomplishments, of course," she laughed. "Come now, Aunt Gardiner liked them. I trust her opinion," Lizzy concluded, thinking that many of her sister's drawings were indeed a bit odd. The sketches of flowers and grass were well enough but the rendering of the headless chicken gave pause- as did her portraits, which, while poor, did manage to capture the most sullen expressions of her sitters.
"Such an opinion does me little good when Aunt Gardiner is so far removed from Hertfordshire. Do you think Miss Darcy draws?"
"I understand that Miss Darcy is the very ideal in feminine accomplishment. At least, that is what I have been led to believe. Everyone is quick to give her praise."
"You sound as if you do not believe this account."
"I wonder at such a girl being so perfect in every way. Mrs. Blake thinks she is, as does Mrs. Hurst. And Charles says she was the sweetest girl of his acquaintance."
"Ah, I see now Lizzy, why you are determined not to like her."
"Me, determined not to like her? Am I not welcoming her to my home?"
"Do not change the subject, Lizzy. You are jealous of Miss Darcy because Bingley called her a sweet girl."
"The ‘sweetest girl of his acquaintance,'" said Lizzy petulantly.
"Exactly. He called her a girl. He considers you a woman."
"Aye, that he does. A fully grown woman, I daresay."
"Lizzy!"
Lizzy blushed. "I should not have said such a thing to you."
"Why ever not? Am I not old enough to be in your confidence?"
"Regarding some subjects, one can never be old enough."
Kitty suppressed a giggle. The nervous laugh would reappear when she was trying to act most like an adult. "Now my very grown up sister, you will not be jealous of Miss Darcy, will you?" Lizzy nodded. "Lizzy, do assure me."
"Yes, Kitty, I promise. It is silly, I know. It is just that when Charles was courting Jane there was talk...that he had left Hertfordshire for Miss Darcy."
"Goodness, that was so long ago. She could not have been more than sixteen."
"I am not sure if she was that."
"Mr. Bingley is not the type of man to look at a sixteen-year-old girl."
"Certainly not." There was a long pause as the women contemplated what would not be said aloud.
"Why does Mr. Hurst not accompany Mrs. Hurst when she comes to Netherfield?" Kitty asked, abruptly changing the subject.
Lizzy considered the question for a moment. "I believe Mr. and Mrs. Hurst realize that they do not have to spend so much time together to have a felicitous marriage."
"That would explain why there are no children," said Kitty smiling in a rather sophisticated way.
The edge of Lizzy's lips came up but she could not help but scold. "I do not like your tone. You are entirely too cynical for a woman your age."
"At least I am not jealous of Miss Darcy," muttered Kitty, as she accidently sewed her sampler to her pelisse.
"I promised you I am not," Lizzy giggled as she watched her sister try to untangle herself.
"And I will believe you when I see the truth," answered Kitty with as much dignity as she could muster under the circumstances.
"Kitty, I can have you thrown out of Netherfield."
"You would not dare." Kitty triumphantly rescued both her embroidery and sleeve without breaking the thread. "Indeed, if the situation with Mr. Edwards comes to pass as we think you may have to welcome Mary as well."
"Oh, yes, what is Netherfield but the haven for all failed romances?" laughed Lizzy.
Before Kitty could respond, Mr. Bingley came to the door. "Excuse me ladies, but I believe they have arrived." Lizzy inhaled and gave Kitty a sideways smile and wink. Kitty nodded but quickly withdrew into herself. She was actually quite nervous to meet Miss Darcy.
Thus, it was with only the shortest of polite greetings that the two unmarried ladies met each other a few moments later.
Mrs. Hurst and Lizzy had no qualms, however. Introductions were made and the women made welcome, and only an hour had passed when the four ladies found themselves in the same parlor. Mr. Bingley wished to talk to his sister, and thus Georgiana sat with Lizzy and Kitty. Lizzy gave encouragement to Kitty who could not think of what to say. Finally, in desperation, she said the first thing that came to her mind.
"I understand that you are perfect, Miss Darcy."
Georgiana laughed nervously. Next to the uncommonly pretty Miss Catherine, and the lively Mrs. Bingley, she felt dark and oversized. You are Miss Darcy of Pemberley, she told herself. Be clever and amiable.
"I assure you that I am hardly a picture of perfection. I am tolerable company, I play well, and I have a large dowry. That, Miss Bennet, is the extent of my perfection."
"And you have a great wit," said Lizzy. "That was an excellent response to such an impertinent comment."
Miss Darcy smiled. "Not a great wit. I am actually quite shy. But I am determined that you all shall like me. So I must make myself perform to strangers."
"Nothing improves one's ability of performing to strangers like practice," said Lizzy in an odd tone. "Kitty, may I leave Miss Darcy with you and trust you not to be rude? I must speak to my husband."
"Have I failed already?" murmured Georgiana.
Kitty looked at her retreating sister. "Not at all, Miss Darcy. I can already tell we shall be great friends."
Darcy opened the contents of the letter. Having had to endure two hours with his cousin and the insipid fiancée, has was thrilled to come home to find a letter from the woman he cared about the most. He had heard from her a few days before in a brief letter telling him that she arrived safely and was ensconced at Netherfield. This letter was longer.
My Dear Brother,
Well, I have been here one week and what a week it has been. I do not doubt that you were uncomfortable in Hertfordshire society, for I have now experienced every oddity, every strange affectation, and every bizarre notion of hospitality that the locals could possibly offer. That being said, I do not find their peculiarities so very different from Derbyshire's or the ton's in the height of season.
Mrs. Hurst and I arrived to find Miss Catherine Bennet staying at Netherfield. It seems that she has had a falling out with her mother over a certain Mr. Lucas, whom she has sworn not to dance with ever again. According to you, she was the Bennet sister who would chase every officer for dances whenever she had the opportunity. I think that is not the case now- as she chose to sit out every dance at the last assembly rather than dance with the wine-loving young scalawag. She is convinced that every man in the county is only capable of improper advances. Now I was not at the last assembly, but I may go to the next one, and am curious to see for myself their attentions to this girl who appears to me quite pretty and amiable, if generally a bit skeptical.
I met Mrs. Bennet on Wednesday and she is everything you have promised me. Had I not met her, I would have had little reason to trust you ever again, given your poor description of this lovely country. Mrs. Bennet dislikes you immensely, brother, and let me know how disappointed she was that I was not an eligible young man. It was generally a confusing conversation, but at least I barely had to say a word. Mrs. Hurst, also, suffered at her attention and had a great headache when we left that house. As for Longbourn, it is a pretty enough place, hardly a place I am ashamed to set foot in, though their sitting room was very bright, its windows facing full west. I was able to speak to the middle sister Mary a little more the next day. She smiles and nods at everything said, and finally excused herself to practice the pianoforte. She plays well enough but did not sing.
Sir William Lucas is a kindly, stupid old fellow. He called on Friday and remembered himself to you, and mentioned our Aunt. I told him that you expressed your regards. Do not feel the need to send any. He did not stay for very long at Netherfield. Despite being often out together in society, he and Bingley must remain somewhat aloof due to their shared relative, whom Mrs. Hurst refers to as "a rather odious clergyman." Having met the man on three occasions now in Kent, I must agree. Of course, Bingley and Sir William, being amiable men, cannot remain so very distant until one of them remembers that they are supposed to be in a quarrel of some kind.
Mr. Bingley remains charming and affable, in those respects, the same man you once knew. However, he is less changeable and no longer hesitates in giving his opinion on important matters. He is very much the master of his estate, and his wife keeps him from falling from generosity into wastefulness. He looks quite a bit older. I remember him as barely more than a boy. Now he has flecks of grey and a few wrinkles grace his face though he is not yet thirty. He has not talked of you very much but sends his greetings with decidedly less ceremony than did Sir William.
As for his wife, I must say, brother, that you are a fool to not have married her yourself. She is a girl still, and looks younger than either of her sisters. She laughs merrily and teases us all with a spirit I have never found in the ladies of society. But she is a capable manager, a lovely host, and tempers the spirit of all of her family with grace. She visits her father daily without complaint and speaks of him with the greatest affection. Mr. Bingley is quite obviously deeply in love with her. He flirts with her in company and will show her affection when he thinks no one is looking. She rewards him with her smiles and will tease him mercilessly if he gives her the chance. I have been told that her older sister was far more beautiful than Mrs. Bingley, but I cannot believe it. Miss Catherine is supposed to look much like the late Miss Bennet, and her beauty, while more the standard type, is only the equal of Mrs. Bingley's. In case you are wondering, Miss Bennet is plain but not without some grace, hardly the awkward moralizing girl you made her out to be.
Well, Miss Catherine has been waiting to take a ride around the estate so I shall end this letter. I bid you adieu and hope you are invited to visit soon.
Your loving sister,
Darcy closed the letter with a sigh. For three years, his thoughts had been consumed by Elizabeth's refusal. But despite Georgiana's description, he now found he could barely picture the lovely young maiden of his former acquaintance. The girl who chased him in his dreams had long since possessed indistinct features. Yet he could still not find a woman to equal his Elizabeth.
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Her words struck like a blunt object. Years of dealing with her brother's situation and her husband's affairs had turned Louisa Hurst into a formidable woman.Chapter Seven
Charles BingleyChapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Georgiana Darcy