Prologue
Posted on 2008-12-10
They traveled as expeditiously as possible; and, sleeping one night on the road, reached Longbourn by dinner-time the next day. It was a comfort to Elizabeth to consider that Jane could not have been wearied by long expectations.The little Gardiners, attracted by the sight of a chaise, were standing on the steps of the house as they entered the paddock; and when the carriage drove up to the door, the joyful surprise that lighted up their faces, and displayed itself over their whole bodies in a variety of capers and frisks, was the first pleasing earnest of their welcome.
Elizabeth jumped out; and, after giving each of them an hasty kiss, hurried into the vestibule, where Jane, who came running down stairs from her mother's apartment, immediately met her.
~Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 47
"Oh! Lizzy, I do not know what to say, but Papa wishes to speak with my aunt and uncle at once."
"Papa? But is he not in Town?" cried Elizabeth in astonishment.
"He returned yesterday at my express. Mama fell truly ill and it is catching. Mary is also affected, as is one of the servant girls. Mr. Jones has been to visit and tells us that it took a young child of one of the tenants."
"A fever! But what of our young cousins? Are they well?"
"They seem so, but Papa wishes them to be removed to London at once. He returned to be with Mama as the fever became urgent, and has begun to fear that he may be succumbing as well. Truly, Lizzy, you must stay with my aunt and uncle until all is well."
"Oh! But surely I must remain to help you, Jane. If our father should also fall ill, you cannot be expected to care for our family alone."
"Kitty is here and will help me. And if our cousins should fall ill, my aunt will need you more. For Papa cannot return to Town and means to beg my uncle to continue the search for Lydia. It is why he requested to meet with them."
Elizabeth was left with little alternative. With such sickness in the house she knew her cousins must be returned to London immediately and it would be equally dangerous for her to remain. But how she wished to stay! Her family was ill and she unable to help them. If Jane or Kitty should join her mother she would have to return at once. Such a fever was a great fear, as so many could be affected.
"Jane, you know you must write should you need me. It would not help at all if you were to fall ill yourself from exhaustion."
"I promise to care for myself as well as may be, Lizzy. Come now, here are my aunt and uncle."
"Well, Lizzy, it seems we are to have your company for a time more," Mr. Gardiner said as he wife embraced her nieces.
"Oh, Jane, you must tell us if you are in need of aid. Focus on your family, dear, and do not worry for Lydia. We will do all that is possible to discover her."
"I must believe that all will be well, Aunt."
After a final embrace between the sisters, Elizabeth found herself once more in the carriage. As her cousins spoke of their stay, she allowed her gaze to wander to the window. A few short days ago all had seemed so hopeful. How had the world gone so wrong?
To Be Continued . . .