Chapter 1
Posted on August 20, 2009
It was early afternoon and the modest carriage was sitting in the shade of a large tree at the north end of Grovesnor Square. Fortunately, the early June weather was temperate as the passengers inside this carriage had been there for nearly a quarter of an hour and the nervous driver suddenly stepped down to the ground from his seat.
"Ma'am, there are two women entering the residence."
This comment caused some stirring in the interior of the carriage and a woman's face could be seen peering out of the door.
"Molly, can you tell who they are?"
"Aye, Ma'am, 'tis Mr. Bingley's sisters, Mrs. Hurst and Miss Caroline, but I naught see Mr. Bingley nor Mr. Hurst."
"Harold, will have to drive me over to the club and Molly you best wait here. Perhaps you can stay on this side of the park so the sisters do not see you should they look out. But take this bag with some food and this book to tell people you are waiting for your mistress from out of the city if anyone asks. Do you still have that second note," hiccup "that I have written?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Good, and thank you again Molly for helping me write it. I fear I am too," hiccup, "tired and unable to do much more than lie here on the seat."
"Oh, please Miss Bennet, let us take you to your relatives here in town."
"Not yet, Molly." The young woman now had her eyes closed again, not looking forward to the jostling of the carriage, which would most likely cause her more head pain and stomach upset. Hiccup! "Not until he has this information."
After saying that she hiccuped again, giggled and said more to herself than anyone else.
"I may be a feeling sore and a little tipsy, but at least he, they, have not made me cry!"
With that, Molly sighed and looked at the driver and shook her head. She stepped out of the carriage and went to sit on a park bench and Harold Molson directed the carriage away. As the carriage turned onto a street near Hyde Park, Harold slowed down to allow a couple to cross over to an entrance to the park itself. If the young passenger inside had opened her eyes she would have seen a familiar countenance on the tall gentleman: as it was she did hear his laughter, but could not recall why it sounded familiar.
Molly chose a bench at a distance from the Bingley house and tried to relax while she thought over the happenings of the last few days and weeks. Both she and her husband Harold were worried about Miss Bennet and were very concerned that they themselves could be in trouble if they did not get her to Mr. Gardiner's home quickly, but there was naught they could do until the young lady gave them her Uncle's address in London.
Molly Molson had been employed as a maid at Netherfield for the duration of the Bingley's stay during the last autumn and her husband was a driver hired by the attorney dealing with the lease of Netherfield. Harold Molson was entrusted with the duty of delivering papers to Mr. Bingley, and while his employer in Meryton, Mr. Phillips, had not stated they must be placed directly into the man's hands, that is what he was planning to do for two reasons.
First, as these were important lease papers it would not do to hand them off to anyone other than Mr. Bingley, for why else did Mr. Phillips wait until Mr. Bingley was back in London?
Second, his passenger insisted she must speak with the former tenant of Netherfield, but only him and not his other relatives. That the "other relatives" had not endeared themselves to Molly, but instead had insulted and demeaned all their hired help at their country estate, did not make this request undesirable so there was no reluctance to avoid the other erstwhile residents of Netherfield.
Earlier Mr. Bingley's butler, Hamilton, had told Harold that Mr. Bingley's sisters were expected back shortly from visiting other friends for the morning. Either Mr. Bingley would return with them or he and Mr. Hurst would be at his club, Whites. Requesting directions to the club Harold thanked the butler and returned to the carriage, spoke with someone inside the vehicle and then moved it to wait under the shade of a large tree at the north end of the square.
Harold had been taken a little aback when his wife approached him with the young woman from Longbourn very early that morning even before the sun had risen. However, he had not had the heart to say no to her plea. Both he and Molly had known her most of her life and greatly approved of her warm ways; besides they were very upset over her recent mishaps and that of her family. After all it was Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth that had helped both he and Molly to learn reading which had increased his earning potential beyond that of what was normally to be expected being a third son of a tenant farmer. Since he was good with horses and fixing all sorts of apparatus and he could read, he was able to find a decent job as an all round man for local Meryton businessmen. It was this entrusted role as deliver of both carriage and papers that found he and his wife in London.
Molly had been assisting at Longbourn due to Mrs. Hill's recent injury, and she had kept her husband abreast of the current happenings at that estate and since the happenings three days earlier.
Longbourn, Hertfordshire
3 Days Earlier
Miss Elizabeth Bennet had a sense of dread that grew by the hour. It had started a few weeks earlier upon receiving an express from Longbourn towards the end of a six-week visit to her friend Charlotte and cousin William Collins at the parsonage in Hunsford, Kent. It was a letter from her sister Mary stating that her father needed both of his eldest daughters' home. Lizzy was to forego her planned stay in London, and instead to travel back with haste along with her sister Jane from their Uncle Gardiner's home on Gracechurch Street.
The master of Longbourn had taken quite ill after an injury in his barn, when he had tried to avoid an upset horse. Mr. Bennet had stepped back tripping on a bucket that caused him to fall against a heavily burdened shelf. At that point, Mrs. Hill had come around the corner and felt her left arm smacked by large wooden box falling off the shelf. She stepped forward suddenly nearly bumping into Mr. Bennet and in his attempt to avoid Mrs. Hill he stepped more within the range of a raised hoof from the upset horse. Mrs. Hill had grabbed onto a post while trying not to fall down and wrenched her right arm. Mr. Bennet was sent to the ground with intense pain in his chest and ribs.
In time both individuals recovered from their injuries but in the short term Mrs. Bennet's vexations and the two younger daughter's lamentations would have people believe that they were the physically injured parties. Mary had tried her best to maintain some sort of calm but no one seemed able to make any firm decisions until Jane and Lizzy's return. The apothecary had seen to both Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Hill and decided that the housekeeper must continue with her recuperation until such time that her weakened arm healed; fortunately, it did not appear as though any bone was broken, but her arm was weak, swollen and painful. Jane saw to it that Molly was hired to help as a temporary housekeeper, until Mrs. Hill could resume her full duties.
Mr. Bennet however had such a scare with his injury that he now was rethinking his daughter's lack of fortunes. His brother Mr. Gardiner had written that a gentleman from Durham County, one Mr. Cartwright, had made it known that his children were in need of a governess. While living in London he had business dealings with Mr. Gardiner, and it happened that he and his wife made the acquaintance of Miss Bennet at the Gardiner's pleasant home. Upon seeing how she handled her nieces and nephews Mr. Cartwright had enquired of her uncle if she was available for the position of a governess, as apparently, incredibly, she had no marriage prospects. Of course, he had also seen her beauty and sweetness, so unlike his plain wife with a sour temper, but from a wealthy family. This Mr. Cartwright did not mention to Mr. Gardiner.
Mr. Gardiner had forwarded the request to Mr. Bennet, fully expecting a negative response. Alas, the letter came one day before Mr. Bennet's injury and therefore, when sending an urgent post to request the return of his two eldest daughters, their father alerted his brother in law that it would be a good thing for his daughters to start considering alternatives to unemployed spinsterhood. If Mr. Gardiner considered Mr. Cartwright an upright and moral gentleman, then Jane would be prevailed upon to travel with the family back to their northern estate once the situation at Longbourn normalized.
Mrs. Bennet after her self-imposed rest, decided she was feeling better and succumbed to lamentations of the two youngest daughters and said that it would be beneficial for her two younger daughters to walk to Meryton, which they did with alacrity. In their search for officers, they came upon the Lieutenant's Wickham and Denny, and invited them to Longbourn for tea.
Jane and Elizabeth both chastised Lydia and then Kitty for their lack of consideration for their father, Mrs. Hill and Molly. However, Mrs. Bennet defended her youngest daughters, agreeing that the atmosphere at Longbourn had been far too quiet and somber of late.
Elizabeth had gone out to the stillroom to assemble flowers and herbs for drying. She was in a most depressive and angry frame of mind and tired of listening to her mother berate her for not marrying Mr. Collins and berating herself for so misjudging Mr. Darcy. Moreover, she was now upset with her father.
She had not spoken with Jane regarding Mr. Darcy's proposal as on their trip home all their concerns were for her father and Mrs. Hill besides the shocking news of Mr. Bennet's agreement for Jane to become a governess. She constantly berated herself for her uncivil remarks to Mr. Darcy, knowing full well that she would never get a better offer of marriage for security's sake. Thinking how that fool of a man, Mr. Collins could throw them all out of Longbourn, she was near tears the entire way home not helped by Jane's hopeful comments.
"Lizzy, we do not know how serious all this is. Perhaps Father just is in need of help to deal with Mother. We must try and think that it is truly not as bad as you think it may be."
However, Elizabeth could not tell Jane all the reasons that were causing her despondency and how selfish and foolish she considered herself to have been favoring Mr. Wickham over Mr. Darcy.
I could never have married Mr. Collins, but for my family I could have at least thought about Mr. Darcy's offer. Oh, why have I been so foolish, so quick with my vitriolic tongue? He may still be insufferably presumptuous and I may not have wanted to marry him, but if I had been less hateful in my statements to him, perhaps he might have spoken to Mr. Bingley regarding Jane. She simply cannot work for that lecher Mr. Cartwright!
If Elizabeth had not enough consternation, she had been the unfortunate witness of the expression of Mr. Cartwright as Jane and she prepared to depart from Gracechurch Street in London. The leer she had seen on his face when no one else was watching him observe Jane, frightened her to the core. Try as she might, not only could she not discourage her father from his previous decision, but he lamented that she too would need to consider the same future. To that effect, he had written his brother once again, to ask of any further prospects for Elizabeth to be a governess.
"Papa, it would be far better for me to take Jane's current position and travel to the north with the Cartwright's. Once things return to normal here you will see it is not necessary for Jane to also leave Longbourn."
"No, Elizabeth, you both will be needed to leave and if no marriage prospects appear on the horizon for Mary, she too will have to consider the same future. I fear that your mother has been too correct in her dire predictions of what may happen upon my demise."
Elizabeth was so incensed at her parents, she lashed out at her father before thinking.
"Then it is unfortunate you did not see fit to control her manner in public before this. She would have far better curbed her younger daughters and controlled her own tongue. Not having done so she ensures her own dire predictions."
Mr. Bennet not at all expecting a disagreement with his second daughter answered her sharply.
"What? Has she frightened away some of your beaus? Have you had an offering that was affected by this yourself or are you regretting your own refusal of Mr. Collins."
"It is more likely that Mr. Bingley was put off by our family's lack of decorum."
"Mr. Bingley? Mr. Bingley would not have the meanness to see that in anyone and certainly not the family of someone he might have been in love with. No, no, Lizzy, Mr. Bingley looked upon Jane as nothing more than a country diversion until he could to return to London society and more maidens to his liking."
"More to his sister's liking you mean. Besides, do you not see why his sister's thought Jane's family not acceptable? They have a right to their opinion based on the complete lack of propriety of Mother and Lydia in particular. Our importance, our respectability in the world must be affected by the wild volatility, the assurance and disdain of all restraint, which mark Lydia's character…..and you never correct them for their behavior, so Jane must suffer doubly for this. First in losing Mr. Bingley and now to be sent off in the employ of a man whose countenance I do not trust."
"Your uncle claims he is an upstanding gentleman. Do you feel better qualified to dispute this?"
"Yes, I saw how he looked upon Jane, and I am confident he will impose himself on her."
"You were also confident that Mr. Bingley was so in love with Jane, and he would return and propose before Christmas. Now you also tell me that now your opinion of Mr. Wickham is lowered to the extent he should not be allowed to visit. Next, you will be telling me that your estimation of Mr. Darcy has changed and he is the most agreeable of gentlemen. You are too young, innocent and changeable to truly understand men's natures."
"Father, please I beg you to reconsider this. Jane is too sweet to fend off this man."
At this point her eyes were teary a most unusual occurrence in his second daughter and Mr. Bennet partly to avoid facing any tears should they fall and partly to avoid facing the results of his own indolent behavior, pronounced,
"Enough Elizabeth! Next week, the Cartwrights will be traveling here on their way to Durham and Jane will depart with them. You may leave my library now."
Lizzy did leave and in her anger, she acted less the genteel lady she was and more like her youngest sister, Lydia. Not caring if she upset her father even further with great energy she slammed the door as she left he father's study. Unfortunately, it brought the attention of her whereabouts to the people standing near the hallway including Lydia and Wickham. Lydia laughed at the thought that her father and his favorite daughter were in an argument and said as much implying that Elizabeth was upset because she might have to be a governess. This surprised Wickham, since he had not thought the family was quite that desperate and he watched as Elizabeth left through the kitchen door to go out back.
After another ten minutes and stating he needed to return to the officer's barracks Wickham took his leave. Ensuring everyone saw him leave by the front door, he headed off towards Meryton not doubling back until he could do so unobserved. Being familiar with the small estate's buildings and paths he found his way over to the stillroom where he thought Elizabeth most likely to be.
Lizzy was working with her apron tied completely around her waist. She had, as a habit attached a pair of small cutting shears to the apron strings, otherwise she often would misplace them. She had just taken them out of the apron pocket and was preparing to trim some flower stems, when she heard someone call out to her.
"Good afternoon, Miss Elizabeth."
"Mr. Wickham? What are you doing out here?" Looking around Elizabeth did not see any of her sisters. "Are Lydia and Kitty not with you?"
"Miss Elizabeth, I thought perhaps you could spare a few minutes of your time to inform me of your recent travels. It has been many weeks since we have had the opportunity to converse."
As he was stating this, he was looking over the area, to ensure if any other persons were about.
"No, Mr. Wickham, I do not at the present time have any moments to spare and I am sorry that Kitty and Lydia saw fit to extend an invite to you and Mr. Denny. We are truly not able to tend the normal civilities at this time. Besides it is not proper for you to be out here with any of us without a chaperone, a fact of which you are well aware. I must insist you leave at once and return to the house."
"Now Elizabeth, we both know that you would rather not have any one else out here as we both have wished to have time together. Very soon we will be separated, as the militia will be leaving for Brighton."
"I dare say we will all survive the deprivation. And you are wrong, Mr. Wickham, I do not wish to have time together with you, nor did I give you leave to address me with my Christian name. Again, I ask that you please leave me and return to the house."
Wickham had no such intention and grabbed Lizzy by both her arms, causing her to drop her basket.
"Ah Elizabeth, I have missed your lively spirit and know that you too have long wanted for me to do this."
She gasped as he tried to force some kisses on her; she called out for help, and he laughed saying,
"There is no one out here to hear you, and Mary is playing her piano therefore nullifying any chance of being heard inside Longbourn. Come now, Elizabeth, I know that you care for me and have wanted to share your affection with me for some time."
Incensed, Lizzy struggled against his embrace while yelling at him.
"Mr. Wickham, you are very wrong and must leave this instant!"
"Elizabeth, why fight me on this? It could be so very pleasant for both of us, we both have such passionate feelings for each other. And soon you we will be parting with no further opportunity to enjoy each other to the fullest."
"You must stop this Mr. Wick…"
Her words were stopped as he tried to force a kiss onto her lips while she continued trying to fight him off. She flailed her hands, one of which was holding her small garden tool for cutting flowers. It startled Mr. Wickham as it cut his hand.
"Why you little wench, how dare you cut me?"
Affronted he slapped her hard with his good hand, the force of which knocked her against the back of the shed, and she then slid down to ground.
She was hurt but she still had her weapon, her voice and now her anger. Standing up she again began to yell as Wickham leaned over to wrap his hands around her neck in an attempt to cut off her breath. Holding her neck, he pushed her back against the table bending her backwards. Realizing her strength could not remove his hands she first kicked his leg and then lashed out again with the cutting shears this time striking his face and succeeded to puncture his left cheek very near his eye, forcing him to release his grasp.
Looking at the blood she had drawn he snapped. No one had ever damaged his looks before! His rage caused him to lunge out to grab her again and he was able to clasp onto her dress and started to rip it off her.
With the tool she still held in her hand, her struggles impeded his actions but he was still able to grab onto the cloth at the bodice ripping it across the front. Then he grabbed her hair pulled her back and then flung her against the shed once more and as she fell down slapped her face a second time. It was his firm intention to enjoy her feminine delights then and there and he meant to proceed despite any further protestations of his victim.
The Molson's were just returning from shopping in town approaching the back gate when they heard a disturbance and what sounded like someone calling for help. Harold approached the stillroom and hearing a ruckus called out in concern.
"Hello there, is there a problem?"
Aware that he was now caught Wickham quickly ran off in the opposite direction, never looking back. Unfortunately, Harold and Molly had only seen a man in a soldier's uniform running away and did not see his face. They could see that a lady was on the ground and Molly immediately ran to assist her as Harold ran after the soldier. Wickham was out the side gate and headed towards town well hidden as he ran through the trees.
Lydia was upset that Wickham had left so early and was now flirting shamelessly with Denny when her father came out to the drawing room, asking that Elizabeth be sent to his library. He had just received word from an attorney in town regarding another prospective governess position. Glaring at Lydia, but not saying a word regarding her deportment, he turned around and went back to his library.
When Harold ran to the Longbourn back door to call for help for Miss Elizabeth, the cook called to Mrs. Bennet but only Jane responded. Jane asked him what was wrong, and he was nearly in tears as he replied.
"Oh Miss Jane, 'tis truly awful, you must come and bring help."
Jane now ran after Harold with Kitty and Lydia right behind her. Upon seeing her sister, Kitty screamed and Jane cried, "Oh No!" Mrs. Bennet finally reached the shed and nearly fainted on the spot.
"Oh no, oh no, no, look what has happened! Has she been defiled? Oh, we will all be ruined. Oh, you ungrateful girl, why did you not marry Mr. Collins when you had the chance? No one will marry any of you now. We will all be thrown into the streets. My salts, I need my salts."
Mr. Bennet heard all this as he approached, alerted by Mary. Upon seeing Elizabeth, he turned ashen and grabbed at his chest, barely able to speak.
"Who did this to my daughter?"
Only Harold could answer.
"It was a soldier sir, but he was too far away and I could not see his face."
Mrs. Bennet then replied.
"Well, we have to find him and make him marry Lizzy or else no one will ever propose to our other daughters."
That was the last thing Elizabeth heard before she fainted.
It was only a short time later when Lizzy regained her wits, as she was being lifted from the ground after her facial wounds had been given immediate attention. Her mother's salts were for once correctly utilized and helped to have her regain her awareness of her surroundings. She could hear her father admonish Lydia for something and stated that no one was to discuss this outside the house. He further berated Mrs. Bennet for her nerves and her loud crying stating that they "do not yet know what has happened."
Denny was standing outside the family circle being kept away by decorum but near enough to offer help if needed. He could not see who it was that had been hurt. Mr. Bennet then asked him how much he had heard or seen of what happened, which fortunately was very little. He had followed Mr. Bennet out so he did not approach the actual stillroom and did not see anyone or anything. Mr. Bennet requested Denny to not say anything as it was unclear as to what actually happened but to alert him should he hear or suspect any soldier of any misdeeds.
Denny apparently agreed with this as well and harbored a dark thought about any soldier capable of misbehavior to one of the ladies at Longbourn. All soldiers would be under tight scrutiny and most likely restricted to quarters by Colonel Foster if word of this attack got out. Yes, he would certainly keep their secret, he vowed as he took his leave.
When it was apparent that Lizzy was somewhat conscious Jane called to her father, who bent over the seated Lizzy to ask how she was. Trying to make sense of the situation, she just kept saying,
"My head hurts."
She would not answer anything further until she could gauge just what had happened and would happen. To be forced to marry Mr. Wickham was not an option. She would claim amnesia first.
Chapter 2
After Jane and Mary assisted Lizzy to her room, her father came in. He had ordered his wife and younger daughters to their rooms until Lizzy's condition was ascertained. With questions regarding what happened she softly replied, "threw me against shed, hit me…again and again, he …. punched me….cut him with scissors".
After this effort she closed her eyes, while she tried to feign sleep and willed her heart to stop racing.
After the doctor had finishing examining her he determined that she had not been defiled, but had multiple contusions to her head and arms, upper back and abdomen- all areas were tender to touch. She had apparently bit her cheek during the altercation causing her to spit out blood. There was slight bleeding from her head wound and left facial bruise but neither seemed to require stitching. He had administered a little laudanum and would return on the next day unless summoned before then.
When Lizzy woke up in the early evening, her first awareness was pain. The second was anger. That the second should take over all other thoughts and emotions would not come as a surprise to anyone who knew her well. She was always rightfully indignant to slights and injuries towards innocent parties. Now as she was the injured innocent party she was trying not to let her anger rule her reason, though it was difficult.
Attempting to sit up caused her to immediately lie down again, the pain was everywhere in her head, face and back and she was very dizzy.
"Oh, what happened? Everything hurts."
Jane immediately came to her side.
"Lizzy, you were attacked. Do not try to get up. The Doctor says you should lie down for at least a day and see how you feel then."
"A whole day? Attacked? Why? What happened?"
Jane called for her father immediately. When he stepped into the room, Elizabeth looked at his face and could not discern his emotion. That she had never seen him look so pained she was certain, but the rest of his emotions were unreadable. He wore a guarded expression she could not recall ever seeing before on his face and that is what kept her from being entirely truthful regarding her attack by Wickham.
Did he too want her to marry her attacker?
"Papa, what happened to me?" She thought she was speaking plainly, but it came out quite garbled.
"Oh my Lizzy, we were hoping you would tell us. What do you remember?"
"I remember slamming your door after our argument, I am so sorry Papa, I know I shouldn't have, but, but.... because, because Jane has to go away." Groaning she said "Oh, my head hurts."
"Lizzy, do you not remember who attacked you? Was it someone you knew?"
She closed her eyes , then said,
"Papa, I…, I can't say, …I think I cut him… then I was on the ground." Open her eyes she looked at him,
"Oh Papa, everything seems to hurt. I'm sorry, that is all I can say. "
Lizzy bit her lower lip and closed her eyes. She could not look at her father knowing she was hiding the exact information that he wanted, but she did not yet know what they were planning for her.
Unfortunately, this did not improve the concerns of Mr. Bennet who was now more certain that his daughters would be on their own should something untoward happen to him. He decided he had to keep to his original plan. Jane was to leave in a week to go with the Cartwrights and Lizzy could go to her new governess position, of which she still had no knowledge. To his second daughter he merely stated.
"It's all right, Lizzy. You rest and see if you can recall anything about the barbarian that did this awful deed."
The next day even though the pain was more intense than the previous evening and she was moving very slowly, she felt more clear headed and firm in her resolve to find out what, if anything, was being planned for her due to this attack. She hoped against hope no one even breathed the necessity for a marriage to take place. After all, he had not defiled her, and her outer dress while torn was not greatly ripped. She felt that not much of her person would have been exposed except part of her chemise. Surely, that could not be enough to force a marriage; but she would try to find out more. At that thought, when Jane was sitting next to her, she asked about her sisters.
"Jane, it seems so quiet, where is everyone?"
"Papa told Kitty and Lydia that they must stay in their rooms, due to their lack of consideration yesterday and Mother continues to feel faint after seeing your injuries. Papa has informed Molly that if anyone comes to the door, they are to be told that we have fever in the house, and you are quite ill. That should keep the curious types away for a while."
A few minutes later she asked Jane, "Would Papa let my younger sisters visit me, for a few minutes perhaps? I feel the need for a diversion, since I cannot sit up to read. And perhaps you could then take a rest from sitting inside all day."
So, it was due to the rantings of Kitty and Lydia that Lizzy was able to find out some crucial information. She listened as each of the two youngest sisters bemoaned their restriction of movement and appear in total denial as to why an attack on her sister should affect any one else's marriage prospects. Ordinarily Lizzy may have tried to temper Lydia's verbal misbehavior but today she wanted the opposite.
"And on top of it all Lizzy, I don't see why Papa is thinking we all have to become a governess. After all I am only 15, I still have plenty of time to acquire a husband."
"Does Papa say that I need to marry whoever attacked me?" Lizzy said this very quietly.
"Well, no, he says we have to keep everything quiet so as to not affect any prospects for the rest of us, and not to discourage your new position in Yorkshire."
"Yorkshire?"
"La, isn't that a laugh. Mr. Phillips has sent off an answer to some family with four or five children, who need a governess. If they can wait for you to heal, Papa says it will be a good position. Truly Lizzy, I think when you and Jane are both gone there will be even more marriage prospects for the rest of us, as you won't be able to distract them, so you shouldn't have to worry about how you may have stopped us from acquiring husbands."
"Thank you Lydia, that is a great relief to me."
Lizzy was now feeling worse than she had before and desired only peace and quiet.
"Could you ask Molly to bring me some broth, and then I feel a need to sleep again."
"Well, you better enjoy Molly today, because tomorrow she is leaving us."
"Mrs. Hill's arm is better then?"
"Not enough according to the Doctor. But Molly is going to London in the morning with her husband to deliver papers to a client and then to visit her sister in Norwich. In addition, Father says that we must attend and help Hill. I do not see why he cannot hire other temporary help."
"Oh. We will lose Molly. Are the Molson's taking the morning post to London then?"
"That is a most extraordinary thing; they are taking a carriage for Mr. Phillips to Norwich, after they deliver their papers. But when they return, they will have to take the general post. However, that will not be for a few weeks and by then Mrs. Hill will be all healed. So I think after today Molly will be gone."
"So it would seem. Thank you for visiting me Lydia."
Upon Lydia's exit, Elizabeth decided she could not wait for decisions regarding her life to be made by others. Wickham had attacked her but fortune had favored her with an interruption before he could defile her. She was grateful that she had attached the scissors to her waist with a long ribbon and string. It was a habit she had started many years ago, so as to keep the shears near her while she was working. She knew he was cut on his face and definitely his left hand; she could not be sure if she had punctured his right hand or his leg.
I hope I did and it was deep, indeed!
This new piece of information now inspired an idea about a way to resolve another issue. She was obsessed with the thought of somehow rescuing Jane from the hands of Mr. Cartwright. And after finding out about the proposed position in Yorkshire, she felt she had nothing to lose; well except perhaps a position as a governess, but she could not rest quietly while everything around her was falling apart.
She simply had to do something!
Chapter 3
Posted on August 23, 2009
"Now Miss Elizabeth, don't you be worryin bout a thing, just drink this broth while I get yer clothes ready for tomorrow. But I don't think Mr. Bennet will take kindly to you gettin up in the mornin."
"Molly, truly I am feeling a great deal better, and the Doctor said I need only to lie down one day, and that is already over. You know I can never sit still for very long."
Actually she was feeling very sore and quite spent but could not let that fact be known to Molly.
"So, I understand you and Harold are taking a romantic holiday."
Blushing, Molly responded.
"Oh Miss Elizabeth, how you do like to tease. We are just usin the chance to deliver the coach, and meet with me family for a few days. It has been many months since I seen me sister and her new husband, and she is now soon to be confined in the family way."
"That is so exciting for you Molly. When do you leave Longbourn?"
"Harold will be ready to be gone before dawn, and we should be in London around noon. We will get the papers to Mr. Bingley and then take the carriage to –shire."
Mr. Bingley! They are going to meet with Mr. Bingley!
Hoping to remain as calm as possible Lizzy continued to ask Molly questions about her travel plans, while she formulated plans of her own. Thanking Molly again, she ordered Molly to prepare a food basket to take with her in the morning, and asked if before Molly left in the morning, would she come up to awaken Elizabeth and say good bye.
"You know how early I like to get up, even if I can't take my walk. It's just the best time of the day for me, when the whole house is quiet. Promise me, Molly. I will most definitely be napping later in the day at any rate."
"Well, if you insist ma'am, but I won't try too hard to stir you if you are not of a mind to wake up."
"Thank you Molly. Your sweetness will be missed here at Longbourn."
After assuring her family she was feeling much improved Elizabeth asked to be allowed to sleep in the next morning. Once she felt the household fall asleep, Elizabeth pulled out her portmanteau from underneath her bed and packed what she might need and that she would be able to carry herself for a few days stay with her relatives. She felt she could convince the Molson's to take her with them and they would be getting her to Mr. Bingley.
She decided to write a note for Mr. Bingley to insure she did not omit any information she deemed important for him to know. It was imperative he understand the urgency of the situation. All her planning depleted her already low energy and the necessity of moving in slow motion meant that it was early morning by the time she was able to slowly get her clothes on, minus some of the usual undergarments. It was simply not possible for her to get her corset on so she just packed that in her bag along with her other few necessities.
She left a short note for Jane under the pillow.
Do not worry, Jane. I am joining Molly and Harold on their trip to London. I will visit our Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. The pain is now more than tolerable. It is just that I cannot bear to listen to Mother scold me any further for not marrying Mr. Collins, and especially for scolding you for not capturing Mr. Bingley. I will be back before you leave.
Upon passing her mirror, she grimaced at her reflection and decided she would wear an older bonnet that had some netting attached to it. It should help hide her discolored and bruised face from view. After fixing the bonnet she giggled at her sight in the mirror.
Oh dear, this looks like a match for Mr. Collins and his bee hat! At least I am a still a Bennet in a bee bonnet.
With such silly notions as these going around in her head she giggled and then went to her father's library where she had a little drink of his brandy, to help with her pain. It burned her mouth but after a few minutes and another swallow she decided to put the whole container in her bag also.
Molly was surprised the next morning upon entering the kitchen to see Miss Elizabeth sleeping in a kitchen chair, appearing ready for Molly's help with her dress buttons. It was too early for even the kitchen help to be up and about and attempting to be as quiet as possible she quickly assisted Miss Elizabeth and taking her bag and picnic lunch departed from the kitchen door. When Molly went out to meet her husband as he arrived with the carriage Elizabeth was walking right behind her, bonnet in hand. It did not take much more effort for Molly to agree to let Miss Elizabeth travel with them--- especially since both she and her husband felt they should wake up the whole household and consequently delay their own travel plans.
Elizabeth had not expected to feel as much pain on the second day after sustaining her injuries, but due to the jostling of the coach for the duration of the ride from Longbourn to London she actually felt worse than ever. While waiting for the arrival of Mr. Bingley, she was having a little bite to eat, careful not to chew on her left side and was drinking a little more brandy than she ought to have been, certainly more than she ever had before. As her repast continued, she decided that it took more effort to chew food than to swallow liquid, so did more of the latter. She had, as a form of security, also taken the scissors from her room, the same scissors that had served so well as a weapon, and once again tied them to her person hidden under her pelisse. Never being fond of bonnets she had removed hers with its attached veil early during the journey from Longbourn to London.
Pain alone would not keep her natural spirits down, but pain with anger made it somewhat difficult for Elizabeth to rouse any sort of pleasant feelings of the whole situation in which she found herself. However, the amount of brandy she ingested started to take its toll on her sensibility. She kept thinking how glad she was to have cut Mr. Wickham, and that all young women should have a defense such as she had: a secret from any attacker. That way the attacker would never know or be prepared for a defense. This thought was at the forefront of her brain when she closed her heavy eyelids.
Harold will alert me when he has found Mr. Bingley and I have my letter right here with his name…right on top…cannot miss seeing it..right on top.
And she drifted off for a little nap.
Chapter 4
Darcy House, London
Georgiana Darcy was at her wits end. It had been over a full month since her brother had returned from visiting their aunt and cousin at Rosings Park. Three days earlier she had written the Colonel regarding the sad state of her brother's appearance and she begged him to return to Darcy House as soon as may be to help her deal with her brother's strange behavior. Late the evening before, her amiable cousin appeared in her music room and held her as she cried while trying to tell him about Darcy's dark moods and refusal to leave his study.
"He won't talk to me, Richard, and has eaten but five or six meals with me in the whole time he has been home. I beg him to tell me what the problem is. I am so worried that it is because of last summer. He just says that of course it isn't, that it has nothing at all to do with me. He orders me out of his study and one time said he was sorry he had subjected his arrogant, selfish behavior upon me, but there was not anything anyone could do and to just let him be."
The colonel had a strong suspicion about what might have been bothering Darcy but even if it was as he suspected, to carry on this long was destructive for both of his cousins. If it was indeed because Darcy had not approached a woman who had captured his affection, well he would just have to conquer his feelings of shyness, get his emotions under regulation and go after the woman.
Society's expectations be damned! What does Darcy need of society's approval for his choice of a wife? Living like this was unacceptable.
Darcy was too far into a bottle of whiskey for any kind of discussion when Richard walked into the study later that night. Darcy's London butler, Mr. Perkins and the Colonel half-carried him to his bed. Darcy had given Hodges, his valet, time off since he felt there was little need for him to appear at his civil best. Perkins was grateful that the colonel was there to assist, as it had been many nights that the master had just stayed in his chair in front of the fireplace with a decanter near by. After many questions to Perkins about the master's inebriated utterances, and the mention of one particular name, Richard decided that he and Georgiana should plan a method of attack the very next day.
"Perkins, will you be able to serve as Mr. Darcy's valet for a few days? Starting tomorrow, we are going to get my cousin on the road back to sober propriety."
With great relief, Perkins replied,
"Oh yes, Colonel Fitzwiliam, I have been his valet often in Mr. Hodges absence. And may I say thank you, for I have never seen young Mr. Darcy so ill behaved."
Fitzwilliam laughed to himself over the butler's reference to 'young Mr. Darcy.' Perkins had been part of this family and household for so long, he could probably recall when Darcy first went off to school. Very little happened in the Darcy family that Mr. and Mrs. Perkins were not privy to.
So it was that on this lovely June morning the Colonel enjoyed a particularly superior late breakfast as the cook loved to spoil this very amiable man whenever he visited Darcy House. As it happened the Bingley sister's called on the Darcy's this very same morning. Caroline was so anxious to see "Dear Georgiana" and to tell her all about their recent visit with their cousins in Scarborough. She spent the whole visit peering about the drawing room obviously looking for someone else to come in to join them. When strong male footsteps were heard approaching the door, Caroline sat as tall as she could and put on what she felt was her most beguiling smile. The smile drooped immediately upon seeing the colonel's face rather than Mr. Darcy's on the person who walked into the room. The superior sisters took their leave within the next five minutes much to the relief of the two cousins.
"I'm sorry I did not rescue you sooner, Georgie, but Mrs. Ridgeway kept me fully occupied with plate after plate of delicacies. It would be rude of me not to fully enjoy her hard labors. We military men do not get such superior dining offered to us every day of the week."
"Well, I would never want you to be rude to our cook, Richard. If you were, she might not treat you so well on your next visit."
"Do I detect a little impertinence in my sweet young Georgie?"
She just gave him a cheeky smile.
"Perkins is still trying to get your brother to appear like a civilized gentleman, and it is far too nice a day to stay indoors. I have requested that your brother be fed, forced-fed if need be, some of Mrs. Ridgeway's healing soup. However, we need to infuse our brain with fresh air while I tell you about our visit to Rosings Park and most importantly the parsonage. Then we will decide how to help conquer your brother's fears and demons."
Stepping outside did indeed lift Miss Darcy's spirits as it was a fine June day and her cousin soon cajoled her into feeling less gloomy. Their walk was of some duration and the Colonel noticed that they had come a fair distance in the park. Describing the antics of her brother whenever he was in the presence of one Miss Elizabeth Bennet took their full attention and they lost track of time and location. In fact, they were just at an outside gate close to the entrance to Whites where they could see Charles Bingley along with Mr. Hurst; the second gentleman was going into the club (it was lunchtime after all) and the first was speaking with the driver of a carriage.
Back at Darcy House, Fitzwilliam Darcy sulked and glared at his butler but that did not stop Perkins from finishing the master's grooming. Perkins enquired if the master would like some food with the coffee that Darcy was gloomily drinking. All he received was a grunt followed by a question.
"Where is my sister, Perkins?"
"She and the Colonel Fitzwilliam have just left for a walk. It is a lovely day for just such a thing. Perhaps the Master would like to go out for a walk also?"
"Perhaps not. When did Colonel Fitzwilliam arrive?"
"Late afternoon yesterday, sir."
Humph, probably putting his nose into all the happenings around here.
"Perkins, I will not have the Colonel disturb me in my study. If he should enquire as to my whereabouts, just tell him I am unavailable."
"Yes, sir. That is also what I told Mr. Bingley's sisters."
Darcy didn't even try to hide his groan, which caused the first hint of a smile on Perkins face in many weeks.
"Good grief, they're back."
"Yes, sir."
"Did Mr. Bingley accompany them?"
"Ah, excuse me sir, Mrs. Ridgeway has just brought up some of her special chicken soup, and she is most insistent you enjoy this while it is still warm."
Mrs. Ridgeway stood in the hallway just outside the master's sitting room staring at Darcy with her arms crossed, almost daring him to not eat the soup. Since he was in no mood for an argument from both his cook and his butler Darcy started to eat the soup. The truth was he always loved this soup, especially after nights of over indulging, but he just kept a staring contest going with his long time employee. He knew with that look on her face, that she would not leave until he completely finished the soup bowl. Handing the empty bowl back to her he gave a brief nod, and a "Thank You, Madame." She turned away with a smug smile befitting the winner of a hard fought duel.
"So Perkins, was Mr. Bingley with his sister's this morning?"
"No sir, they said he went to his solicitor and would then go on to White's for lunch, before returning home."
Darcy took in this information with abnormal interest. He felt he might as well go to Bingley's home first to try and speak with him. If he met up with Caroline Bingley he would have to deal with it. Each new interaction with that woman found his tolerance for her growing less and less and this was definitely NOT the best of times for politely greeting that orange-feathered vulture. No, he needed to speak with Bingley away from his sister and Charles had not been in a humor to visit Darcy for some weeks even before their respective trips away.
I will have to go to him. Lord knows it may be the last time Charles will ever agree to speak with me, if I can find the courage to do it. Indeed it must be done! I must tell him! Then I can just lock myself away from the world.
Informing Perkins that he would indeed be going for a walk after all, he left before he talked himself out of it. Darcy avoided looking at his reflection in the mirror. He knew his appearance was not up to his previous standards and his clothes hung a little loose on him, but in his present mind set it just did not matter.
Walking across the little square outside Bingley's house Darcy was relieved to notice few people about but there was one face he did see that looked familiar and very nervous. Walking past the woman he finally remembered why she looked so familiar. She was a servant from Netherfield, and though he tried to remember her name, he could not. Perhaps she was now working in London. Continuing his walk toward Bingley's home, he put the question out of his mind.
Darcy was informed that Mr. Bingley was still not returned from Whites and turned to leave.
"Did you wish to leave any message sir?"
"I will try to catch him at the club but if I don't please tell him I need to speak with him and will call on him later today."
Turning to leave Darcy thought of a further question.
"Excuse me Hamilton, did any one else ask to visit Mr. Bingley. I am thinking in particular of my sister and cousin. Did they perchance come by?"
Darcy was relieved to find out that they had not.
"No, Mr. Darcy, the only person to come by was a driver from Meryton with some papers for Mr. Bingley from an attorney. He would not leave them insisting that they must be delivered into the hands of Mr. Bingley. He expressly asked that nothing be said to Mr. Bingley's sisters. Then after a few minutes he drove the carriage away but only after a young woman exited and walked across to the square. Since I have noticed that same woman still waiting across in the square I assume the driver will be returning."
At this point, Hamilton looked as though he was going to say more but stopped. Darcy pushed for more information even if it wasn't strictly his business.
"What is it, Hamilton, is there a matter for concern?"
"Truthfully sir, I had a very disturbing feeling from the driver. He seemed exceedingly nervous and said it was most important that he speak with the master as soon as may be, but would not wait inside."
"Perhaps he was wishing to finish with his duty and return home?"
"Perhaps, sir." But to Darcy, the ever-astute Hamilton did not seem to accept that as the reason for the driver's nervousness.
"Well, thank you Hamilton, I will be on my way towards Whites"
With that, Darcy went down the front steps and looked across to the square and decided that if Hamilton was concerned perhaps a talk with the woman who had been a servant at Netherfield could further clarify the situation. He crossed over and noticed the woman look down at the ground but did not move from her position. Hesitating Darcy wondered if he should forego propriety when Elizabeth's words came back to him.
"… your manners, impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings for others …"
No, he would not ignore this woman, who was known to him and appeared somewhat distressed.
"Good afternoon, ma'am. Forgive my forwardness, but are you not from Netherfield?"
The woman blushed and looked down at the ground.
"Oh pardon me, I am sorry to have disturbed you."
Molly looked up and overcoming her surprise at being recognized by Mr. Darcy, called out to him as he walked away from her.
"Beg yer pardon, Mr. Darcy?"
Turning back to her, he nodded to her and politely asked,
"So you are from Netherfield?"
"No sir, or that is not any longer, but I am pleased that you recalled me from there."
"Forgive my manners, ma'am, but I cannot recall your name."
" 'Tis Mrs. Molson sir, but no forgiveness is necessary. I nae expect a gentleman such as yourself sir, to be rememberin one such as me."
"Why ever not? You were an exemplary servant if I recall, and quite helpful with visitors at Netherfield. You showed great kindness towards the Bennet sisters on their stay. Are you in new employ in London, Mrs. Molson?"
"No sir, me husband Harold is a driver for business men from Meryton and is here to deliver papers from Mr. Philips to Mr. Bingley."
"I see, and are you waiting for him now? Is everything all right with you at this time? You could surely wait inside Mr. Bingley's home if need be."
"Thank you sir, I would have no wish to see, um, that is, I would not wish to be disturbin' Miss Bingley with me presence."
"Yes, well I can certainly understand that, but still are you sure you do not want to rest somewhere indoors? My own home is not too far a walk, and I can assure you some comfort there if need be."
"You are too kind sir, thinkin' of the likes of me, but I might be askin' for some help in findin' Mr. Bingley. You see we need to deliver the papers as soon as we can and then we can deliver Miss Bennet to her relatives."
Molly knew she promised Miss Elizabeth to not tell anyone in Longbourn regarding her riding with them when they left, but she did not promise to keep her silence to anyone in London, and they certainly never discussed the possibility of speaking with Mr. Darcy.
"Miss Bennet?"
"Yes, sir."
"Miss Bennet is in the carriage?"
"Yes, sir, and I'm real fretful for her sir, she is not well, not well at all, and we are to deliver her to her relatives in London but she won't tell us their address until she speak with Mr. Bingley himself."
Good Lord, Miss Jane Bennet is not well and trying to find Charles. I may be too late!
"And now she is feelin' the uhm, the medicine she has been dri---- takin' sir, and is actin', well different than is her usual manner, sir. We are worried that she may, uhm fall asleep before she tells us her uncle's address."
"Molly, where did they go, your husband and Miss Bennet? We must be after them quickly."
Darcy picked up the maid's bag and immediately headed towards Whites where Molly said her husband had gone. She followed him as well as she could. He called back to her his direction through the park and pointed out what exit they were heading to and walked even faster. Darcy regretted that he had not taken his horse. His lack of adequate diet and exercise over the last month would catch up with him soon enough, but Molly could still not keep up with the tall man's stride.
Darcy could see that Bingley was approaching the steps to Whites and a carriage with Richard, of all people, sitting with the driver as they proceeded to leave from the front of the club. Suddenly a piercing sound very near to his right ear stopped him and everyone else in their tracks!
Chapter 5
Posted on August 29, 2009
Dear Mr. Bingley,Please forgive my boldness and the impropriety of my writing this letter but matters are such that I feel I can no longer wait for fate to intervene. Fate has not been kind to Jane and when such life-changing and threatening occurrences are facing her, I no longer care of the appearance of impropriety.
It had always appeared to me that you had cared deeply for my sister Jane, but if I am wrong in this belief, I give you my apology for my presumption. I have been proven wrong in my estimation of other people's character of late but both my sister and I think of you warmly still. It is not my intent to offend you nor impose upon you, but if I am correct, and you did have affection for her, and perhaps do still indeed, I can only beg of some action on your part. After reading this letter please feel free to enquire of any further details of your former servant Molly and her husband, Harold Molson, the man employed by Mr. Phillips to deliver your lease papers.
Due to some unforeseen circumstances, Jane will within a se'nnight be traveling to Durham to become a governess for the Cartwright family. That in and of itself is not the tragedy. Rather it is the employer, Mr. Cartwright, who gives all the appearance of being a fine family man, but trust me Mr. Bingley; I have seen the carnal lust in his eyes when looking upon Jane and I fear for her safety.
You know her, sir.
She is too kind to think ill of people. She is still in love with you and cares not that she will not be having her own family, since she cannot have your love. But she does not think nor believe that this man has any other desire but to hire a governess for his children.
If it is as your sister Caroline has told Jane when she visited your home in London this past winter, that you have affections for and are involved with Miss Darcy, or perhaps someone else, then again I beg your forgiveness for my presumption. Otherwise, please Mr. Bingley, if you care at all for Jane, do not delay in telling her so. There is little more I can do.
Due to a recent injury to my father he is worried about our future livelihoods and if we are not to marry he insists we must now all start considering the employment in other households. Once I am again fit, I will be going to Yorkshire as a governess but my father would not allow me to trade places with Jane.
I implore you sir, if you do indeed care for Jane, please go to Longbourn with great haste. I fear her spirit would not survive the devastation that an attack on her person would inflict.
Thanking you in advance for your time and consideration, I am your most humble, if improper neighbor.
Elizabeth Bennet
If upon first seeing Miss Elizabeth Bennet in the carriage, Charles Bingley thought he was shocked, after reading her letter he was rendered speechless, livid, outraged, incensed!
And most of all, hopeful.
It was as he was trying to get more information from Harold Molson that the Colonel and Georgiana first approached him to see what the problem might be. For it was certain that there was a problem. Never in their entire acquaintance had either cousin seen Mr. Bingley so enraged. His face was red and he was pacing back and forth as the driver was talking with him. Bingley held the letter in his hand and kept looking down at it and then back at the driver.
The Colonel arrived just as Harold was explaining how Miss Elizabeth would not tell them where her relatives lived in London.
"I say, Bingley. Is there a problem?"
Bingley looked up with a start, so deep in thought as to not recognize who was speaking to him. Bingley was still trying to sort it out in his own mind and could barely form words, let alone sentences. Having seen many men react to sudden shocks on a battlefield the Colonel grabbed Bingley by both his arms shaking him sharply and said in his most authoritarian and forceful manner.
"Spill it out man, what is the problem?"
Bingley was still at a loss of what to say since he was unaware that Richard Fitzwilliam had ever met or known of the Bennet's. But his outrage at the appearance of Miss Elizabeth and the contents of her letter forced him to respond by thrusting the letter at the Colonel. Joined now by Georgiana the two cousins read the letter together with both of them exclaiming
"Elizabeth Bennet!"
They looked again at Charles who wordlessly gestured towards the carriage. Richard went to the carriage and stepped inside freezing in his movement when he realized whom and what he saw.
"Bloody Hell! Who did this to Miss Elizabeth?"
Stepping back out he turned to Bingley who had finally found his voice.
"Molson here says she wouldn't tell them her uncle's address until she spoke with me. But she is no longer coherent. I would take her to my home, but I fear that if I see or speak with Caroline at this moment, I may not be able to control myself. And if my sisters see Miss Elizabeth, it would be all over the ton in twenty four hours."
"But the letter doesn't explain Miss Bennet's condition. How, who, what the *#* happened?"
"Apparently it was a soldier, two days ago, on their estate, but she cannot remember what happened. Miss Elizabeth followed Mrs. Molson out to the carriage this morning. She convinced the Molson's to take her with them, stating she would feel better recuperating at her relatives here in London. Molly, Mrs. Molson, is someone I know, for she was a maid at Netherfield, and has been recently helping out at Longbourn, due to some sort of crisis."
Suddenly turning to the driver in exasperation asked,
"Molson where is your wife now, and why is she not helping with Miss Elizabeth?"
"Mr. Bingley, she, Miss Elizabeth that is, said Molly was to wait outside your home in case we did not find you. Please sir, we need to get her inside, do you not have any idea where her relatives live?"
"Cheapside, that's all I know."
Richard looked at Bingley and at Georgiana and started doing the planning for all concerned.
"Georgie, forgive me for my prior offensive language and for what your eyes are about to behold but I need you to get in the carriage. We are going to take Miss Bennet to your home, where we can at least care for her until we find out further information. Bingley, get your carriage and pick up Mrs. Molson, take her to Darcy's house. My less than congenial cousin is going to have to face up to some company whether or not he likes it. After that you are free to do anything else you plan on doing or not doing. However, if Miss Elizabeth Bennet in her present condition can take the time and pain to travel here in Miss Jane Bennet's regard, that sister must be something indeed."
Richard climbed up with Harold giving him the directions to Darcy House and asking for further details regarding Miss Elizabeth's attack. Miss Darcy sat in the carriage looking in disbelief at Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who looked anything but pretty and was mumbling incoherent phrases. There was also a distinct odor of alcohol about her person.
Suddenly they heard a loud whistle, and Harold reined in the horses with a jolt.
Richard looked at Molson as though he was daft.
Georgiana found herself trying to sit up and untangle the arms of Miss Bennet who had rolled over as though she would fall off the seat. In a natural reaction Georgie had reached forward to stop the young injured woman from landing on the floor of the carriage.
Darcy looked with wide eyes at Molly who still had her fingers in her mouth for she had been the whistler of a most unusual loud and piercing sound. Blushing as the two walked toward the carriage Molly said,
"Beg your pardon sir, but 'tis a method we use in the country to alert people of a far distance."
"Indeed." He gave the maid a little smile but it was enough to cause her to feel a little weak in her knees.
He does not appear offended by my behavior and I don't think I have ever seen him smile before. T'is no wonder Miss Bingley has her hopes to be his bride! Poor man, he deserves better.
When Richard saw Darcy approaching he jumped down and started to tell him of Bingley's letter. Concerned that Darcy would do some physical damage to anyone near him once he saw the condition of the passenger, Richard held his cousin by both arms before telling him who was in the carriage.
Bingley told the doorman at Whites to inform Mr. Hurst of his unexpected departure and joined the small gathering at the carriage. Charles was thinking that Darcy must have known about Elizabeth since he was here with Molly.
Darcy thinking it was Jane Bennet inside the carriage did not understand why Charles was not with her.
Unexpectedly to all concerned, there was heard a soft giggle, coming from of all people, Georgiana!
Darcy was surprised to see his sister inside the carriage, but before he could move towards her Richard said.
"Darcy, I must warn you, she looks very bad."
"What is wrong with her and why is Bingley not with her?"
"Darcy, it is not Miss Jane Bennet, it is Miss Elizabeth and she has been… someone has assaulted her."
Darcy felt as though he had been hit in the stomach for he suddenly could not breathe; he had turned quite pale and then red with anger all the while being steadied by his cousins grip. Before anyone could tell him anything further, he again heard his sister's giggle.
Looking into the carriage the three men and Molly saw Georgiana holding onto Elizabeth. That Miss Elizabeth's body was weaving about even though she was seated would not be a surprise to anyone within breathing distance. But what captivated the male viewers and charmed Miss Darcy was the sight of a very inebriated Elizabeth talking as if a lecturer, while moving her hands for emphasis; the right hand held small scissors, and the left hand a limp asparagus stalk. This stalk had been part of her uneaten lunch before she had drifted off to her brandy-induced nap.
The jolting stop must have brought her to a slight level of consciousness as she now appeared to be anointing the sweet looking blond girl with said stalk as she stated about how it was a good thing for all young maidens to learn about cutting vegetables and flowers. At which point she rolled up her sleeve to show how she could hide her secret weapon. At this point Georgiana was joined by her two relatives and Molly. Elizabeth's left eye was still swollen so she did not recognize the two gentlemen at first.
"So you see, pretty miss, it behooves us young damsels to become accomplissshed, in subt--subterf-, in hiding weapons. He did not even know what cut him, that poor excuse for a human being."
All of her words were slurred, due to the fact of too much brandy, too little sleep and an injured face.
Richard spoke to her first.
"Miss Elizabeth, do you remember me, I am Colonel Fitzwilliam? We met at Rosings Park."
Lizzy knew his voice and his face was somewhat familiar though her vision was blurry. She unconsciously responded with a cheery greeting and a lopsided smile.
"Hello, Colonel Fizzzwillam, t'is so plez…so plez… so good to see you, again."
She started to fall forward and everyone including Molly, Miss Darcy, the Colonel and Darcy reached out to keep her upright as the carriage was in motion once more.
"It is good to see you again also, Miss Bennet. My cousin Darcy is also here and we will take you to his home so that you may rest yourself from your journey."
Upon hearing Darcy's name Lizzy's good eye widened, and her asparagus holding hand went to her mouth as she said.
"Oh no,…can not see me like this, can not go …should not go…must hate me…can not go to his house… no, no I have no right… can not go… need Mr. Bingley."
While talking she was trying to place and adjust her bonnet onto her head and the netting so as to cover her face. Molly immediately told her she would fix her bonnet for her, as it was apparent to all those watching that bonnet placement was a task beyond Miss Elizabeth's current capabilities.
Darcy had moved into the carriage sitting on her left side across from her. Worried that he might again incite her feelings that had been so decidedly negative towards him on their last meeting, he did not say anything. Seeing her bruised face left him speechless, as well as profoundly angry and frustrated about not being able to comfort her. So it came as a great surprise to hear her say what he thought she said, that he, Darcy, must hate her. But then she looked up at him through her good eye that seemed to hold a little spark. If it was good spark he could not tell. But then leaning forward towards Darcy, Elizabeth said in a conspiratory and alcoholic whisper,
"I cut his face, that cur. He'll not be so handsome now,…not be so easy to hurt any sisters, not any more."
At this point she sighed, hiccuped, and to everyone's surprise fell forward towards Darcy whose arms had no choice but to hold her as she appeared to 'fall asleep' once again.
Charles was now riding with Harold giving him directions and within five minutes they arrived at the back entry to Darcy's home.
No one said anything on the ride back, Darcy continued to hold on to Elizabeth in a most gingerly fashion as a silent tear ran down his face. Richard, Georgiana, Charles and Darcy each had questions but knew they could wait until all were safely inside the Darcy House.
Chapter 6
The gloom and quiet that had been part of the Darcy household for the previous month was now replaced with a great deal of commotion.
It all started with the interaction between the master of the house and a young woman outside a carriage that had been pulled up to the back entry.
"I have perfec…perfectl..ly good legs, sir."
"Of course you do, Miss Bennet, but there are many stairs, so I feel it would be more expeditious for me to assist you in the navigation of these new surroundings."
So saying, Darcy placed one arm around Lizzy's back as he bent down to put the other arm at the back of her knees. It was all so fast that the tipsy young lady found herself being carried by Mr. Darcy before she could further resist.
He was quite right, for when the young lady tried to place one foot in front of another after attempting to step out of the carriage, it did indeed appear a task too intricate for her brain to coordinate no matter how able her feet and legs. Ignoring her comments regarding her lack of exercise for the past three days and that her legs had not been harmed, Darcy carried Elizabeth to an upstairs sitting room led by Miss Darcy and Richard and followed by Mr. Bingley and the Molson's.
Carrying Miss Elizabeth through the back hallway, the master of Darcy House called upon his housekeeper to follow him as he made his way through the hallway. Emphasizing the need for discretion, he informed Mrs. Perkins that Miss Bennet should occupy the guest bedroom near the large sitting room, the one overlooking the garden, and all would be explained in a short time. He also sent for Henry Davidson, his physician, to attend to Miss Bennet.
After Darcy placed her on the settee in the sitting room she made an attempt to stand up when Bingley gently stopped her by sitting next to her and holding her arm.
"Whoa, there Miss Elizabeth, I think it would be better for you to stay sitting for the time being."
Lizzy graced him with the best smile she was capable of at that point in time.
"Mr. BINGley! I have wanted to see you again."
"Yes, so I understand. I am so sorry, Miss Elizabeth that you have had so much pain and discomfort of late. I sho.."
"Oh do not worry about that ssir, you shee I did have some of my father's brandy to," hiccup, "help with the pain." At this she gave him a conspiratory look as she leaned towards him.
"I have become a thief." They both giggled.
With that pronouncement she was looking around herself and then had a look of concern on her face.
"Oh dear, I have missspla…where is it? "
"The brandy?"
" My letter, my bag. I have a letter for you… I don't want to forget anything…" and she tried to stand up again.
"It is alright, Miss Elizabeth, the Molsons' have your bag and they have given me your letter."
Upon hearing that Lizzy gave a big sigh.
"Oh that is so good, Mr. Bingley, for it is most crucial that Jane is looked after."
With a feeling of sudden panic she opened her eyes again.
"It is good, is it not? You do care for Jane, I am not wrong there too, am I?"
"It is very good, Miss Elizabeth. You are most definitely not wrong about my feelings for Jan… for Miss Bennet."
With a big sigh, she took his hand and thanked him, closed her eyes and fell against him. Bingley looked to Molly for help and they switched places while the discussion continued regarding all the recent occurrences at Longbourn. Half sitting and half-lying on the settee in the sitting room, Elizabeth would have occasional interjections.
"Will not marry that cur."
Bingley and Darcy along with Molson's discussed the shenanigans of the younger Bennet daughters.
Molly also told them that Miss Elizabeth had stated she knew that she cut the attacker's left hand and left cheek, but not sure of just what other spot where the scissors may have punctured the attacker.
"Hope his cut was deep," hiccup, "that mongrel."
"So far, none of us at Longbourn have seen her shed one tear for herself, but she seems very angry about her attack and extremely upset at Miss Bennet having to go away."
Everyone heard Elizabeth as she continued to mumble regarding her mother's fears and desires. Mr. Collins and Wickham and Darcy were all mentioned and the best sense the others could make of it at the time was her mother would have married Elizabeth off to the first taker, no matter who it was.
With a collective shudder, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy thought about Mr. Collins and Elizabeth, and then Wickham and Elizabeth. Did she fear a marriage to her attacker? It was no wonder she was driven to such desperate deeds. But how Darcy was lumped in with those two pitiful examples was a mystery to all but Darcy himself.
When Georgiana had gone to the guestroom to aid with Miss Bennet, Darcy had called his cousin into his study. He informed him that Wickham was stationed with the militia in Meryton, but as Bingley came to join them, Darcy paused. The Colonel pushed for more information. Realizing that his embarrassment would serve no purpose he divulged all to his cousin and good friend. Not entirely sure that he would still be able to call himself a friend to Bingley, he finished what he had set out to do earlier in the day.
"You knew she had been here in town?"
"Yes."
"But why did you keep it hidden?"
"I was entirely wrong to have done so. My judgement was presumptuous, and definitely not needed. It was to inform you of Miss Bennet's true feelings towards you that I went to find you earlier."
"How did you come to find this out?"
"Miss Elizabeth informed me of her sisters' affection and regard for you. As her sister and closest friend she would certainly be more assured of Miss Bennets' feeling than I could have ever been."
"When did Miss Elizabeth tell you this? Today? When did she have time? And why did she tell you?"
Bingley was now pacing much as Darcy usually did when upset. Darcy was looking particularly pained at this point, but knew he would have to divulge more to his humiliation.
"She informed me of this in Kent. I am sorry Bingley, I could not put pen to paper with these words and felt I must deliver them in person, and when informed that you had returned to town, I set out to find you at home. And well, we know the rest."
Both Bingley and Fitzwilliam stared at Darcy somehow sensing there was more to be told.
"What?"
"You tell us cousin, something has been left out of this explanation. Just when exactly did Miss Elizabeth tell you of her sister's feelings? When did you have time to see her for she did not join us for dinner our last night in Kent and she was not at the parsonage when we took our leave? I know for certain that she had not spoken to you regarding her sister and Bingley before that or she most likely would have told me when I last walked with her at Rosings Park."
"She told me …." But Darcy could not go on. He now crossed the floor, turned towards the mantle, shaking his head. He knew it was futile to try and conceal the debacle of his humiliating proposal and her rejection of it.
"She told me when I,... when I proposed to her."
"Proposed!" Both Richard and Bingley replied, and Richard feeling a little more up to date than Bingley, continued.
"When did this proposal occur and why has your engagement been such a secret?"
"There is no engagement."
Darcy had said this as he continued to look at the mantle with his back towards his cousin and his friend.
"But how can …did you not just say you proposed marriage to Miss Elizabeth?"
When Darcy did not respond both men had horrible thoughts, with Bingley responding first.
"Good God Darcy, you did not ask her to be your mistress?"
"Charles, of course not! Please give me the benefit of some sense. I would never dishonor her in such a way."
The thought then occurred to Richard that the unbelievable had happened.
Is it possible she rejected Darcy? No wonder he has been so despondent and morose.
Realizing the pain his cousin must have been feeling, Fitzwilliam in a caring tone asked,
"Did she refuse you, Darcy, your proposal of marriage?"
When his shoulders sagged both of his companions began to understand.
But it took relating the story of his incredibly rude proposal, her refusal, both their heated exchanges and his improper correspondence for them to completely comprehend what had been driving Darcy to behave so unlike himself since Easter.
For a few minutes the only sound heard was the ticking of the clock while Darcy's closest friends tried to think of something appropriate to say.
Finally, Richard went to the sideboard and filled three glasses with brandy. After handing one to Bingley and Darcy he stated,
"Darcy, no slight meant to you with this, but I propose a toast to Miss Elizabeth Bennet."
"Well, I second that most heartily, Colonel" said Bingley.
Darcy could not think of any reason not to toast the woman he loved.
"May the two of you have a long and lively life together." Said the colonel with a smirk as he raised his glass again for another toast.
"Richard, did you not hear a word I said? She hates me! I am the last man in the world she would marry!"
"Well, you may think that but I sat in the same carriage as you did today, and her reaction to your presence was not one of a woman who is repulsed by you. She was embarrassed to be seen in her condition. Not by Bingley and not by me. Just by you."
"Yes, Darcy, you two have never been indifferent to each other, a fact apparent to Caroline almost immediately. Perhaps, with more understanding, the good Lord's mercy and the Bennet sisters' forgiveness, you and I can pray to work towards their affection. I for one will no longer be deterred."
"Nor should you Bingley, for as we now know you at least had Miss Bennet's tender affection. I, on the other hand have the opposite from Eliz--Miss Elizabeth. Oh my insufferable pride, why did I not tell everyone about Wickham? Richard, so help me, if that snake did this to her, I will kill him with my own hands!"
The colonel was getting a glimmer of just what he himself would and could do to investigate the attack on Miss Elizabeth Bennet, apparently by someone in His Majesty's forces.
"Darcy, no matter who is responsible for this attack on Miss Elizabeth, it will not do for you to seek him out. First, dueling is illegal, and second it would be hard for you to court her and perhaps tender a second proposal while in prison for murder.
"I, on the other hand, can seek a military solution and therefore must get to my general's office right away to rustle up some orders for an investigation. I should be back in time for a late supper. For the present you had best stay here, to see if Miss Bennet remembers any further details of her attack and the address of her relatives."
Bingley also asked to stay at Darcy's home for the evening.
"I will go directly to gather a few belongings to travel to Longbourn at first light, but I do not trust myself around my sisters this evening."
Darcy invited the Molson's to stay and rest at Darcy House for the night and further insisted he would pay their coach fare for their ride back from Norwich to Meryton, after the visit with their family. He felt it was an insufficient payment of gratitude for their care of Miss Elizabeth.
Darcy was pacing constantly due to his frustrations with his inability to do anything further. He kept remembering the spark in Elizabeth's good eye as she looked at him, and said how she had cut the handsome face, and he would not hurt anyone's sisters any more.
Was Wickham the man who attacked her? Was that a spark intended for him or for Wickham? Was she still upset with him? But she had leaned into him and cuddled against him as she fell to sleep. He refused to use the term "passed out in a drunken stupor" although he would not soon forget the image of Elizabeth smiling at Georgiana, while cautioning her about a secret weapon all maidens should use. Injured she may have been but when worried about other young women she lost not a moment to instruct with her 'asparagus baton'. If he had not already been in love with her that vision alone would have had him on his knees begging for her hand.
What a fool I am, I have already begged for her hand! She told me in no uncertain words what hope I have of ever gaining it. She hates me! Of course, I did not really beg for her hand then, I had just assumed it would have been given to me upon my asking for it. Fool!
The spirit and passion of his Elizabeth had captured his heart all over again, and he vowed to find a way to win her. For no other woman would ever come close to win his estimation as she had done once again, only so much more intensely now.
Could Richard be correct? Was there a glimmer of hope for his cause?
He wrote a letter to Mr. Bennet assuring him of Elizabeth's safety in his house with his sister and her companion in residence, and that his physician was also called in to exam her. They need not worry about any imposition and as soon as Elizabeth would awaken and tell them the address of her relatives they too would be contacted. If Mr. Bennet wished he and one or more of her sister's would be welcome in joining Miss Elizabeth at Darcy House.
Colonel Fitzwilliam informed Bingley that he would be traveling with him to Longbourn in the morning, for as a soldier had done the horrendous deed he had been able to procure the necessary orders to conduct a proper informal investigation.
No one thought to question just what was meant by a 'proper informal investigation'.
Taking Darcy's letter with them Richard and Bingley along with a quartet of soldiers headed off to Hertfordshire, before first light the next morning.
Charles Bingley could think of very little beyond Jane Bennet and his sister Caroline.
Bingley decided that he would not speak to his sister until he could safely tell her that he was engaged to Miss Jane Bennet. His rage was such that he could not trust himself to mere words, and strangling one's sister was frowned upon by the legal system, no matter how justified.
When Caroline came upon him the evening before she was persistent in her demands to know why he had left Hurst at White's and not informing the family as to his whereabouts. Charles just stared at her and said not one word. Bingley smiled to himself when he realized the power of silence, and aware that Darcy had used that tool for years.
Hamilton was informed in private, that if he needed to be contacted, Mr. Darcy would know how to reach him, and at no time were his sisters to be informed of this or of his whereabouts.
"Just tell my sisters, if they should ask, that I was asked to attend to an important matter of business, out of town."
"Very good, sir. I am glad Mr. Darcy reached you then for he was also quite distraught this morning when you were not here."
"Distraught was he?"
I should think so, after what he told me.
"Yes sir, and I informed him that you and Mr. Hurst were at Whites. It was then that I also informed him of the servant across in the park. I noticed that Mr. Darcy approached her after he left here, and the two of them proceeded to walk away in great haste."
"Hamilton, once again I am grateful for your observant and discrete behavior."
Taking a minimum of anything he felt he would need for a few nights' stay he went back to sleep at Darcy's. If God would smile upon him, and grant him a second chance he would send for more belongings. He still had his settlement papers for Miss Bennet. He had never been able to destroy them even though he had so foolishly allowed others to sway his emotions away from a marriage proposal.
What had the letter stated?
You know her, sir.
Yes, in truth, his heart knew her, but he had not the confidence to believe she could love him.
That would never happen again and if he could be so lucky as to still win Jane's hand, he would waste no time in banishing Caroline from his and Jane's home. She would not be welcomed any time soon, if ever at Netherfield where he most certainly would not let his lease expire.
Bingley had his papers, an engagement ring, Elizabeth's letter and a new determination.
While Bingley was planning a proposal, Colonel Fitzwilliam was deciding just how he would go about hunting down the reprobate and coward that injured Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Richard had orders to use his discretion to 'conduct an inquiry' and hunt for a soldier with injuries to his person. Someone tall, with dark hair and at least two known injuries: one to the left side of the face, near the eye and the second to the left hand.
Good for you, Miss Elizabeth Bennet!
He also chuckled at the memory of her being carried by his cousin as she insisted she had two perfectly good legs. She was a lively one! Just what Darcy needed, and fortunately Darcy seemed to know this. His cousin was a good man, and Fitzwilliam would aid him in any way possible to attain Miss Elizabeth's hand.
It was just before noon when the six men arrived at Longbourn.
As Mrs. Hill was still rehabilitating it was Mary Bennet who answered the door. Mr. Bingley first announced himself and introduced Colonel Fitzwilliam and then asked to speak with Mr. Bennet. The Colonel and Bingley were called into his study, to see a very pale and tired Mr. Bennet. To Bingley the man appeared to have aged considerably in the last seven months.
Bingley made the introduction to Colonel Fitzwilliam who then proceeded to take over the meeting.
"First Mr. Bennet, we are happy to tell you that your daughter, Miss Elizabeth, is safe and currently in London." Intending to go on, the colonel was cut short with Mr. Bennet's response.
"Oh, thank God."
At this exclamation, Mr. Bennet was panting while fighting tears and sobs. Bingley immediately asked if he could get him a glass of wine or water, to which he received a nod. After a few deep breaths, he motioned for the men to sit down, but still had a far off look in his eyes. The colonel softly cleared his throat and asked if he could continue. As if from a fog, Mr. Bennet looked up and said,
"Yes, however first I would ask if I might inform my wife and daughters as to Lizzy's safety?"
Bingley immediately stood up and said,
"Mr. Bennet, may I quickly announce this to anyone in the drawing room, for I think it better that you remain seated for a while longer?"
Receiving Mr. Bennet's agreement, Bingley quickly stepped out into the hall very nearly knocking over a surprised Jane Bennet. She had been alerted by Mary of the recent arrival of six men including Mr. Bingley, who was even now in their father's study. Bingley immediately reached out and held her to prevent her from falling and attempted to calm her anxiety.
"Miss Bennet, Miss Mary, your sister Miss Elizabeth is safe and is currently at Darcy House in London being well tended to by Darcy, his family and staff."
The relief that came over Jane and Mary was almost palpable, with the eldest Miss Bennet so overcome that her knees were giving out upon receiving this information and by the visage of the messenger of this wonderful news. Bingley put his arms around both sisters while he assisted them to the drawing room. After seeing Jane to a chair and though wishing he could stay by her side, he knew that any such hope and desire must be delayed.
"Miss Bennet, I have much to tell you, much to apologize for and much to ask you, including your forgiveness. However, right now due to the insistence of Colonel Fitzwilliam, I need to accompany him and your father. I will join you as soon as I am able, I give you my promise."
With that he kissed both of her hands as he stared into her eyes bowed and walked back to the study.
In the span of a few sentences Jane had gone from the depths of despair to the heights of hope, and if her hands had not been tingling as a result of the sudden unexpected kisses, she would have thought she had dreamt the whole episode. Fortunately, Mary had borne witness to the whole incident including the liberties that Mr. Bingley had taken as he helped Jane. And, yes, Jane had heard his words correctly. Mary then went to inform Mrs. Bennet that her second daughter was safe.
Kitty and Lydia were both giggling while looking out the upstairs window at the four soldiers in the front courtyard. Those four soldiers had been given a good account of the silly younger daughters, and with orders to not encourage them in any form whatsoever, turned away from the two youngest Bennet sisters.
In the study Mr. Bennet had been shown the Colonel's official orders to conduct an inquiry into the matter of 'Conduct Unbecoming.' He was given Darcy's letter and a short history of the travels of Elizabeth as were known by Bingley and the Colonel, without any mention of her letter or its contents. Nor was Mr. Bennet informed of Richard's relationship to Darcy, but rather his involvement was attributed to being a friend of Mr. Bingley who was at the same club, Whites, when the carriage driver had located Mr. Bingley.
He was also not informed of the dissolute habits of one Lieutenant Wickham. It was the Colonel's belief that Wickham was indeed the guilty soldier responsible for Elizabeth's injuries, due to her comments that Mr. Bingley and the Colonel himself heard Miss Elizabeth state in her delirious state. Richard felt Elizabeth knew the identity of her attacker, but for some reason feared a forced marriage, and was keeping it hidden. He could well understand the family's insistence on privacy. These were just a few of the thoughts he pondered as he prepared for the interviews of the Bennet's.
As the gentlemen finished with their meeting, Mr. Bennet was requested to gather the household in the dining room. They stepped out of the study, just as the mistress of Longbourn descended from her bedroom fully planning on bestowing upon Mr. Bingley as well as the Colonel her most garrulous effusions of gratitude. The Colonel feeling no need to rely on genteel manners employed his military decorum and stopped her before she had spoken but a few words.
"Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, I need to speak with all your family and staff as quickly as possible, so if you could please all gather immediately in your dining room. There is still much to be done. I will join you in short order after I have spoken with my men."
Mrs. Bennet still did not understand that the request from the Colonel was in actuality an order, and started to praise Mr. Bingley and thank him for returning to Longbourn. Colonel Fitzwilliam drew himself up to his full height and in his most authoritarian voice barked out.
"Mrs. Bennet, perhaps you did not hear my directive, we need your entire household together in the dining room. Immediately!"
Taking offense at being ordered about in her own home, she started to voice her displeasure but her husband sharply reiterated the colonel's statement.
"Mrs. Bennet, the Colonel has orders to follow and is here to help track down the villain who hurt our Lizzy. We best gather everyone into the dining room as he has ordered."
Upon entering the dining room Bingley immediately went to a chair near his beloved Jane. He was nearly overcome with her quiet beauty that was only enhanced by the blush that now was covering her and he could barely look anywhere else. She appeared to have tears in her eyes, which greatly upset him.
"Miss Bennet, pray what is wrong? Please I cannot stand to see you in this distress. What may I do to help you?"
Shyly and with a soft smile she looked up at him.
"Mr. Bingley, these are tears of gratitude for your news regarding Lizzy and for your being the bearer of this news."
He reached over and held her hand under the table where no one could see them.
"Jane, I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see you, and I would be most happy to continue to bring you nothing but good news."
She did not remove her hand but instead relished the feel of his strong grip and gave him a small smile along with a little squeeze, causing Bingley to nearly lean over to kiss her. Fortunately his gentlemanly upbringing kept his thoughts and actions in check, and with a final squeeze he released his grasp to concentrate on the Colonel's words.
Chapter 7 – Fitzwilliam Rules
Posted on September 10, 2009
Colonel Fitzwilliam began his investigation by stating he was there with the full weight of His Majesty's government behind him. His four men stood at attention around the perimeter of the room.
Richard looked over all the daughters, astounded at that difference between the five of them. Lydia and Kitty were both giggling as they gave the Colonel flirtatious looks, in front of their parents. He in turn gave them a cold withering look as though together they had not the sense of a gnat.
"Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, Miss Bennet, Miss Mary," here he paused as he looked from Jane with politeness, to Mary with curiosity and ignored the two youngest altogether.
"We are at war, and while at war I have certain discretionary orders to act as I see fit in ferreting out conduct unbecoming an officer. When I am informed of the depraved behavior of one His Majesty's officers, I take this information very personally, as does my commanding officer. We need to be gathering the good will of our citizens not its disfavor.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule #1.
Inflate their ego.
"From what I have been able to discover Miss Elizabeth is considered a well-bred gentlewoman, from one of the most well thought of families in the county. While I do understand there are some women in the Meryton area that encourage the soldiers in the manner of those known as camp followers," here he paused and gave a long, slow look to Kitty and Lydia, "I trust none of those loose, foolish girls abide here at Longbourn. With that in mind, I need to go over everything that occurred here the day of Miss Elizabeth's attack.
"First, I will be interviewing each of you regarding your whereabouts and your recollections from the time of noon to the time of the attack. As the Mistress of Longbourn, I will start with you Mrs. Bennet; my men will stay here and I encourage those remaining not to discuss this among yourselves. Instead I ask that you quietly reflect on your actions and whereabouts that afternoon. The door between the kitchen and here will remain open so I do not wish to be disturbed by any unnecessary noise from this room. You do all understand, do you not?"
At this he looked around at each and every person, addressing them individually and expecting them to answer, which they did until he got to Lydia who giggled her answer.
"Is there something about all this you find amusing, Miss?" He would not honor her by saying her name.
"Well, it does seem all a bit too much melodrama, just for what happened to Lizzy."
Everyone else at the table gasped. Mrs. Bennet looked at her youngest daughter as though she were an imbecile. Mr. Bennet was looking especially pained and embarrassed.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule # 2.
Destroy the most overinflated ego.
"I see. Tell me, what would you consider an appropriate reaction to being attacked with cuts on your face, nearly loosing one of your teeth, nearly being strangled to death, and punched and thrown against a building? Not once, not twice, but multiple times! Would you require more injury to your person to warrant a reaction or would you prefer no reaction whenever one of His Majesty's officers inflicts his brutal and carnal desires on a woman, lady…or other female? Should our military men just have free access to all the fair maidens in the country without consequences? Tell me Miss, if your sister had been defiled and all your marriage prospects were effectively negated as a result of this would you then consider this enough of a reaction?"
Lydia embarrassed answered defiantly.
"That's silly, why would my marriage prospects be affected by one of my sister's being attacked? I am the youngest, prettiest and by far the most fun and therefore the most desirable."
She titled her chin up in the superior manner of a spoiled chit.
Colonel Fitzwilliam, his hands clasped behind him as he stood directly in front of Lydia silently studied her for a long time with his fiercest look and not allowing any one else to say a word. Lydia became very uncomfortable with this negative attention and started to squirm.
Finally the Colonel turned sharply from her and stepped to the front of the room looking around one more time at the room.
"It is apparent that there is a woeful lack of education to the ways of the world with at least one young la..female of this family but that is not my, nor His Majesty's concern until such time as it interacts with my officers. If it is found that behavior unbecoming has indeed occurred by one of our officers he will be dealt with in a most deserved fashion. That is what I will continue to focus on this afternoon. Unbecoming behavior by silly young females are the concern of her family, should she have one. On that note, Mrs. Bennet, would you do me the honor of leading the way to the kitchen?"
He had chosen the kitchen over the study as the area to conduct the interviews, feeling a more informal area would help keep the women calm, but not completely at ease. With the door remaining open, they could see and be seen but not heard. One soldier stood sentry at the kitchen door, and the other three were in the dining room.
If Mrs. Bennet had been ready to faint and ask for her salts she was immediately placated by the best gentlemanly behavior and diplomatic manners of Colonel Fitzwilliam. The Colonel informed her that he was a second son of an Earl and acquainted with the difficulties of a mother in raising five daughters to become genteel young ladies. He complimented her profusely about her reputation as an exemplary hostess and thereby helped her to feel more at ease. He did have to steer the conversation to keep the answers to the inquiry at hand and to discourage her to not go on with her excessive exclamations. He managed to calm her fears regarding privacy, as long as everyone at Longbourn kept the happenings quiet, she could entrust that this elite cadre of men would keep her daughter's reputation safe from gossips and scandal.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule # 3.
Remember to threaten the priorities of whatever the witness holds dear.
"But Mrs. Bennet if anyone else, anyone at all, sisters, brothers, servants outside of Longbourn, should be told of these happenings, I do not have to tell you what that will do to your other daughter's chances regarding suitable marriages. So do I have your word that you will not discuss this with anyone outside of Longbourn?"
"Well of course, Colonel. I do care for my daughters well-being and prospects as any good mother would."
"As I knew you must Mrs. Bennet. Therefore I will have you sign an agreement to the effect that due to the personal nature of His Majesty's concerns, you will never discuss this affair in public or with any person not involved with this matter, and not present at this time or at time of the attack. Should you not follow the dictates of the aforementioned concerns, you may face a military trial of your own, a heavy fine, or both. Please just add your name after the signature of your husband and, of course, I will be asking the same of everyone in the household."
At her hesitation the Colonel continued,
" Mrs. Bennet I assure you that this is a measure that the military must always undertake to ensure the secrecy of its maneuvers. While this may not appear to you to compare to battle maneuvers, our dealings with the home population of any area where we are stationed do indeed take on extreme importance. That is why we must insist on you and your family's compliance with the ORDERS of SECRECY. If your household does not agree to the ORDERS of SECRECY, there would indeed be a heavy fine. And it would be such that even the cost any of new clothing for balls could be quite of reach for your household, that is if your family would even be allowed to attend any assemblies, and most certainly not any military balls."
After meeting Mr. Bennet's dry wit and Mrs. Bennet's extremes, Richard had an ever-increasing esteem for their second daughter. And he felt smugly proud of himself for having dreamt up the need for signatures to ensure their compliance of privacy.
With his next interview of Miss Jane Bennet, Fitzwilliam was yet again astonished by the difference in the personalities of this family. She was sweet and gentle leaving Fitzwilliam with the overwhelming feeling of softness.
Beautiful, elegant and soft.
How in bloody hell did Darcy convince Bingley to give this woman up, even with her mother and youngest sister?
Fitzwilliam found it difficult that she could believe the best in everyone. Even though she knew of Wickham's disfavor with Elizabeth due to some information regarding his less than stellar character, Miss Bennet had hoped he was trying to mend his ways. Well, if she and Bingley do get together in matrimony, no one will need any sugar in their tea or coffee, he thought; the sweetness will be oozing through their pores. And then he remembered what would most certainly balance the scales in the opposite direction, Caroline Bingley!
With Miss Mary, Fitzwilliam felt a kindred military soul. Her matter of fact, no nonsense manner allowed no flowery asides and would do credit to any military trial.
Or religious inquisition!
She saw, she commented, she conquered, at least in her own mind.
All though she tried to appear above any sort of emotional display, where her sisters were involved she was loyal and very critical. As far as she was concerned Mr. Bingley had a lot of groveling to do before he would rise in her estimation and trust. In regard to Lieutenant Wickham, she had observed that man always looking about his surroundings as if to see the best or easiest pickings, no matter if he was speaking with Lizzy, Lydia or another female. Yes, he knew his way around the Longbourn estate for Lydia had shown him the all the back gates and paths she like to use when trying to escape her mother's notice.
That her two younger sisters were silly flirts went without saying, but she said it anyway, noting that if the Colonel himself were not careful Kitty and/or Lydia might be too forward during his interview of them.
Her most emotional display however, was saved for whomever had attacked Lizzy. That one young woman could quote from Biblical sources and Fordyce with such vehemence toward a member of the male gender was enough to make the Colonel step quite a few paces backwards and behind a strong table for good measure and the safety of his manhood. She certainly matched her elder sister with fervor when the spirit moved her thus.
Well, Mary Mother Superior, I shall remember to stay on your good side if for no other reason but to leave with my male pride intact!
Miss Katherine was an insecure and silly young twit of a woman but she gave Fitzwilliam his first secure knowledge of Wickham's location during the afternoon of the attack. She stated that Lydia and Wickham were standing near the hall when Elizabeth left her father's office and due to the slamming of the door, all attention was called to Lizzy as she walked to the kitchen and out the back door. Kitty reported Lydia's snide comment regarding Lizzy falling out of favor with her father.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule # 4.
When all else fails scare the living daylights out of the recalcitrant witness.
Miss Lydia feeling affronted and insulted by the Colonel was determined to not be helpful and claimed she could recall nothing and would not even verify anything anyone else said.
"Fine, you may now be escorted to the military barracks."
Lydia did not understand that at all, for that seemed like a reward and she smiled smugly at her family as she attempted to walk back to the dining room before being stopped by the Colonel's words.
"Sergeant Davies, please alert Mr. Bennet that we will be escorting his daughter, Miss Lydia, to the military brig at the barracks."
At this Lydia swallowed and started to whine.
"You can not do that. I have done nothing wrong."
The colonel stopped and looked at her and said loud enough for everyone in the room to hear.
"I can and I have. Until such time as you see fit to do what is right, you will be housed at the military brig."
He turned again to the dining room further cautioning the Bennet family that he would leave one of his men at Longbourn for their 'protection'. Waving the sheet with their signatures, he reminded them that they were not to speak with anyone outside of their present family regarding the happenings concerning Miss Elizabeth and a soldier of His Majesty's militia. It would also be necessary for Mr. Bingley to stay at Longbourn for the evening so as not to arouse any curiosity of his presence in the neighborhood.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule # 5.
Give them no choice in the matter.
"Quarantine signs have been posted so as to discourage visitors.
If we are to catch this rake, we need not give him any warning or knowledge ahead of time, do you not agree?"
He did not expect an answer. Just compliance.
"We are of course, well aware that the militia is due to leave the area within a week, and this necessitates the need for an urgent investigation. On that note, until such time as we have exhausted all possible leads we cannot allow you to socialize with your normal circle of friends. You will be confined here at Longbourn until our initial investigation is completed."
At this Kitty looked like she was about to cry and Lydia stamped her foot saying,
"That's not fair, we are going to miss all the parties and dances for the officers."
Ignoring her outburst the colonel continued.
"Since Miss Lydia will be confined at the military brig, I suggest she take a parcel of food with her as no one from here will be able to visit and provide her with sustenance. I am certain that she will not find the grub commonly given to prisoners to her liking."
Now all the other members of the family were becoming very concerned. Mr. Bennet looked quite upset and worried and stood up to voice his objections while Mrs. Bennet declared her nerves could not withstand this new event.
The soldiers were ordered to bring the family to quiet.
"Must I remind you, we are at war. This is an order, not a request. If I have an officer out among the local populace causing mayhem upon ladies, what do you think that same person would do during a battle? Could I be expected to count on him to lead his men, or to cut and run? We cannot and will not tolerate such despicable behavior. Your youngest daughter seems to think this is all about her, some sort of game. Until such time as she can see recollect her actions and the actions of people around her on the afternoon of the attack she will be at the military barracks jail. There is no further discussion."
Everyone sat perfectly quiet except for some whimpering from Mrs. Bennet and Kitty while comprehending the full picture the colonel just described.
"Now, Sergeant Morris will be assigned here today for your protection, to be relieved later this evening by another of my men. Good day."
As the Colonel started to leave Lydia was pleading with her father and mother to do something. Sergeant Morris immediately stepped between the young woman and her parents while the other men surrounded her and 'encouraged' her to march out of the house.
This was the final straw; she could not flirt her way out of this, nor would her parents be able to rescue her. So Lydia finally gave in.
With her new found memory, it was determined that Wickham had left the Longbourn estate within minutes of Elizabeth going out to the flower drying shed; and that Wickham was well acquainted with the layout of grounds of the estate. From his vantage point in the hallway Wickham could clearly seen where Elizabeth had walked after she left the kitchen. Lydia was also a fountain of information regarding her 'Wicky' and Denny's habits and where they went for their drinking and carousing.
Mr. Bennet was now realizing that Colonel Fitzwilliam was getting information specifically about Wickham.
"Surely you do not suspect Lieutenant Wickham of this deplorable act? Why the man has been a guest in our home for meals and teas, he's danced with my daughters, held them in the highest esteem!"
He asked this more as a vocalized thought than an actual question.
The colonel empathizing with Mr. Bennet replied.
"Mr. Bennet, it is my unfortunate duty to know about the proclivities of many men in the service of His Majesty. This would not be the first time Lieutenant Wickham has been involved in disreputable behavior; however, until now I have not heard of his physically manhandling and beating a woman. But then again, no other woman has stated she was able to cut his face, although I dare say, many would have liked to do just that. He is a very charming and vain man, and a gambler who tends to leave many debts in his wake and unmarried women in a less than reputable condition. That, in and of itself, does not indicate a propensity for this type of cowardly and cruel deed. Nor does it rule it out. We are starting with him since we know of his fondness for taking liberties with ladies, and until such time as we can locate him and question him he is most definitely our number one suspect!"
With a word of caution specifically directed at the two younger Bennet women, that any attempt at escape from the Longbourn estate whether it is from an upstairs window or back yard gate would be greatly frowned upon.
The soldiers departed and rode to the barracks where Colonel Forster was contacted and informed of the recent happenings. For the sake of the reputation of the victim as well as his corps, this was to be kept confidential, and the whereabouts of one Lieutenant Wickham needed to be determined.
First Lieutenant Denny was questioned and he stated that he agreed to Mr. Bennet's demand for privacy, for he did not feel someone in his company could have been the attacker, especially since the Bennet's had been so hospitable. In response to Wickham's whereabouts, Denny then stated that Wickham claimed that on his departure from Longbourn, a soldier running in the direction of Meryton had knocked him down from behind apparently causing injuries to his face and elsewhere on his body. Denny of course, was unaware of Miss Elizabeth's injury to her attacker and did not suspect his comrade as the perpetrator.
Further prodding determined where and with whom Wickham would seek solace.
Wickham's commanding officer had indeed seen him two days previous with apparent injuries to his face, left hand and thigh supposedly from a fall in the woods. Due to the stitching to his wound under his left eye which necessitated a bandage around his left face and forehead and a professed inability to hold a weapon the injured wimp was last was seen at a local pub.
Approaching 20:00 hours there were now a dozen men pressed into duty outside the pub as Colonel Fitzwilliam and Colonel Forster stepped into the drinking establishment. The level of discourse ceased as all the patrons looked at each other wondering what would bring not one, but two, colonels into their local watering hole. One particular patron upon seeing the two Colonel's and in particular, Colonel Fitzwilliam, paled and attempted to sneak out toward the back door and proceeded to run out of it right into three soldiers with less than happy demeanors. They did not appreciate having this duty enforced upon them on their own time off and did not tolerate any delay of this operation. The sooner the rake was caught and dispensed with the sooner they could enjoy their remainder of their free time. In addition to his previous injuries, Mr. Wickham was soon to have a discolored right eye, swollen lip, and numerous aches in his abdomen and back as a result of meeting abruptly with the butt end of rifles.
Early the next morning he was informed that his debts to the local tradesman were being tallied along with what he owed other officers for gaming debts and if not immediately repaid he had more than just the military judicial system to face.
Given his alternatives he chose emigration and was scheduled for a prison ship to Australia, where he would face permanent banishment after court martial and two years hard labor rather than debtor's prison. Wickham sneered at Fitzwilliam as he heard his sentence and attempted to make a crude remark regarding Miss Darcy, but found that whenever he opened his mouth to speak, a bayonet was placed on his very swollen and bleeding lips.
"Yes, Wickham, by all means continue so as to give me the great pleasure of further damaging your tongue."
As he spoke, the bayonet had indeed found its way to nicking said organ. This served as an effective silencer of the prisoner.
Later that morning after reporting the capture of Wickham to Longbourn's master and graciously thanking Mr. Bennet for the family's cooperation, he further impressed upon him the need for discretion until such time as the prisoner landed at the jail in Australia. If it were ever discovered that the news of this attack and arrest was made known to the general public, the estate would be fined for disobeying a military order. That in and of itself served as a method for quarantine imposed on the Bennet household. But his final words to Mr. Bennet had a more life changing result for the youngest two of the Bennet sisters.
Fitzwilliam Intimidation Rule # 6.
There is no need or requirement to give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
"It would seem, Mr. Bennet, that it is not just that the names of Lydia and Kitty Bennet are well known by many of the military men stationed here in Meryton but the sharing of their feminine 'talents' have been discussed as well. Just what that sharing is I do not know, beyond the betting odds posted in one officers barrack of who would be the first of the many officers to bed either one or both of the two maidens. Apparently, it was not so much a guess as to if, but when and which officer would partake of said pleasure.
"On that disturbing note, Mr. Bennet I bid you good day and God Save the King."
What the colonel did not relate to Mr. Bennet was that there were always bets placed on all the fair maidens in the area, whatever area the troops happened to be stationed in. After all, a soldier would never know when or where he might have good fortune!
So it was with a great deal of satisfaction that Colonel Fitzwilliam and his cadre accompanied the prisoner cart to the military jail near the port of London. The next prisoner ship was scheduled to leave in six days time, and Fitzwilliam was planning on seeing that this one particular ex-soldier was aboard without any mishaps.
He also experienced a great feeling of relief, for if Miss Lydia had not cooperated he had not a clue as to what he would have done with her as there was certainly no brig set up for females in the Meryton encampment.
Chapter 8
Posted on September 10, 2009
Elizabeth did not want to open her eyes due to a severe pounding headache. She had during the night such vivid dreams and called out to Jane and Molly, but only Molly responded. She dreamt that Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam had spoken with her as well. There were unfamiliar sounds all around. More than once during her late evening and early morning stirrings she thought she heard the rich deep voice of Mr. Darcy and even dreamt she saw him sitting near her bed while holding her hand.
She tried to lift her head up but the effort was just too great, and she moaned and put her head back down when she heard a soft voice speaking.
"There, there Miss Bennet, you had best not try to get up too quickly just yet," a kind female voice said. "Can you open your eyes ma'am?"
Elizabeth opened her right eye to see an unfamiliar middle-aged woman standing near her. With a fright, Lizzy sat up, which was a big mistake and suddenly needed the use of a container, chamber pot, vase, anything that she could spill the contents of her stomach into. Fortunately this woman was prepared with a large bowl to catch the gastric contents rebelling from Elizabeth's brandy overindulgence. With her energy depleted, Lizzy reclined against the pillows and started to ask the woman for specifics regarding her current location. The woman was speaking to her in a caring, but maddeningly patronizing fashion, as a maid rinsed Lizzy's face with a cool moist towel.
"Do not worry about such things right now, Miss Bennet. It is still very early and the household is quiet. Just as soon as I know you are steady I will step outside to the hall. The master insisted we call him the minute you were awake, but as he himself did not get very much sleep last night, we will not disturb him until we know how you feel. I think tending to your needs with a bath would be a good idea. Some broth is on the way up right now, and as soon as we know you can keep that down, we will get your bath ready. Then you will feel like a whole new person."
"Where, Who….What is your name?" Elizabeth congratulated herself on getting a whole question asked, and while she felt better with her eyes closed she squinted out of her good eye trying to get her bearings.
"Why I am Mrs. Perkins, Mr. Darcy's housekeeper here at Darcy House."
Hearing that Lizzy closed her eye and groaned. "Oh no."
If Mrs. Perkins heard Lizzy's groan she ignored it and continued with her explanation of the previous day's events.
"I must say you created quite a stir for the master and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam yesterday, and even Mr. Bingley was beside himself with worry."
"Mr. Bingley?"
"Yes ma'am."
Grabbing Mrs. Perkins by the hand Lizzy asked her,
"Did we, that is, did I speak with Mr. Bingley? Did he get my…my written explanation?"
Oh my Lord, what have I done? The Colonel and Mr. Darcy as well as Mr. Bingley must all know about my improper behavior. But what happened? Where is Mr. Bingley now?
"Well ma'am I am not privy to that information but when Mr. Darcy first carried you in from the carriage, everyone was with you in the sitting room just outside these chambers. I do believe there was some conversation between you and the three gentlemen as well as that very nice couple that brought you to town, the Molson's. Once your room was prepared, Miss Georgiana and I sat with you until we were sure you safely resting.
"What..what did I say?"
When Mrs. Perkins heard another loud groan after stating that Mr. Darcy carried her inside, she had to hold back the smile forming on her mouth so as to not offend the young lady, who might soon be her mistress. For judging by the behavior of the master, this young woman had captured his heart. The master had brought Mrs. Perkins into his confidence as to some of the happenings to the young woman and upon hearing her name as Elizabeth, she began to understand his anxiety. Her husband relayed to her that he heard the names 'Elizabeth' and 'Lizzy' being spoken by the master on more than one occasion over the past weeks when he was under the influence of too much brandy or port. The overindulgence in liquid spirits had been nearly non-stop since his return from Rosings. But last night except for a drink with the colonel and Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy had not touched any other alcohol.
A great improvement!
"To tell you the truth Miss Bennet, I am not sure I can recall, but it seemed to me the Colonel was listening with great attention. I believe he feels he knows who attacked you, and he and Mr. Bingley left for Hertfordshire more than an hour ago, before first light."
Lizzy felt she was swinging between joy and despair. Joy for her sister, if Mr. Bingley was indeed on his way to renew his affections and despair if they knew that Wickham was her attacker.
I will not marry him. I will not!
At that moment a kitchen maid brought up the broth and two caretakers assisted Miss Bennet with sitting up so that she could take in some much-needed nourishment. Cautioning her to drink very slowly, it was apparent to the housekeeper that the young miss was not comfortable with all the fuss to her person, but she accepted it and after ingesting as much as she could, asked to be allowed to lie back against the pillows.
Such sweetness. Such manners, and her in this terrible condition. Oh yes, the master has found himself a good match! But what will happen if he should find the man who did this? Hopefully the good Colonel will take care of that for the master.
Georgiana was awake early and tried to quickly get herself ready for the day all the while asking her maid Claire about any of the happenings during the night. She was told that her cousin and Mr. Bingley had departed and her brother was still asleep, but she was not informed about that which she most wished to learn, the condition of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She decided to go to her guest's room even before breaking her fast. Upon softly knocking, Mrs. Perkins allowed her to enter.
With tentative shy steps Georgie stepped in and looked over at the young woman who was half sitting and half lying down still abed, with the bedclothes over her.
"How is she?"
Georgie was whispering so as not to disturb Miss Bennet, but she so wanted to talk with her. With all the fuss that went on the day before, Georgie was never quite sure of the whole story. This was Miss Elizabeth Bennet, the young woman that her brother had written about in his letters from Netherfield and then from Kent. But when he returned from Rosings Park, he would not allow Georgie to even ask about her. Richard said that her brother was quite smitten with her but had been too shy to do anything about courting her.
And yet here she was!
After Mr. Bingley shared his letter from Miss Bennet, Georgiana was astounded at the facts contained in the missive. Miss Bingley had been so deceptive and duplicitous. Intimating that she and Charles Bingley had an understanding was just an outright falsehood! She realized that Miss Jane Bennet was the woman to whom Mr. Bingley had lost his heart, which explained something of his sadness over the last few months. But that his sister, Caroline Bingley, went out of her way to hide Miss Bennet's residence in town and using Georgiana as a reason to cause further pain to both her own brother and Miss Jane Bennet, well she might never speak to Miss Bingley again. How could the woman be so cruel?
Georgie upon first entering the carriage had been taken aback by Miss Elizabeth's appearance and aroma, but quickly took to Miss Bennet as she described how young women could protect themselves. She was so cute with the asparagus in her hand, and even though her bruises discolored her face Georgiana had focused on the half of her face without apparent harm. Georgie had never before seen a woman intoxicated, at least not one that she was aware of; but if like men, the next day memory was very sparse for the individual guilty of the overindulgence, Georgie wanted to help Miss Bennet remember everything she said. This was in hopes of herself understanding some of Miss Bennet's utterances.
Had her brother really proposed to Miss Elizabeth? If so, why were they not engaged? And why would Miss Bennet think that Fitzwilliam hated her? And marry Mr. Collins? The only Mr. Collins Georgie knew of was her Aunt Catherine's parson, and apparently he was a creep. And what did George Wickham have to do with all this?
Georgiana had reacted with a start when she heard Miss Bennet slur out the name of Wickham. But the more she thought of all that which her brother had spoken regarding George's habits and behavior, the less shocked she was, but it still was such a repulsive thought she had hoped it was not he who had done this awful deed. If he could in anger so harm a woman, what would he have done to her if she herself had married him, but no dowry came with her due to her age? Or if Fitzwilliam would not let George Wickham have access to it? She shuddered at the possibility of what might have happened to her without her brother's intervention.
Mrs. Perkins smiled at Miss Darcy's eagerness but whispered that she should go break her fast for Miss Bennet was still not quite ready for company, and most likely would not be most of the day. Elizabeth chose that moment to open her good eye, and saw the young woman standing next to Mrs. Perkins.
So this must be Miss Darcy! Well I certainly did not endear myself to this family. Imagine a first time meeting with an intoxicated and insensible woman? Not to mention disfigured! Would not Miss Bingley just love this story? How could everything I do go so wrong?
Elizabeth groaned again, causing Georgie to look very worried and asking Mrs. Perkins if they could not do something to help Miss Bennet's discomfort.
Patting Miss Darcy's arm, Mrs. Perkins assured her that they would do everything possible to help Miss Bennet.
It was a few hours later after more broth, a refreshing bath, and a new set of clothes, (just whose clothes they were she did not know and had not the energy to ask), Elizabeth was helped into the large sitting room with a view onto the side yard, now abloom in flowers. Fortunately it was adjacent to her bedroom so she did not have to travel far. She was sitting on a comfortable settee and staring out the window wishing she could run out among the flowers and perhaps dig a very deep hole in which to hide. Elizabeth became aware of the Master of Darcy House entering the room. Mortified that Mr. Darcy had seen her in her drunken state, and with all the discoloration on her face, she could not turn to look at him.
What must he think of me now? How glad he must be of his escape from me, relieved that we did not get engaged?
"Miss Elizabeth?"
He knew she had heard him for she dropped her head and turned away from him.
Did she hate him still? Or was she embarrassed?
Remembering what his cousin had said, he decided on embarrassment; rather he hoped for embarrassment. He prayed it was embarrassment.
"Miss Bennet, are you feeling better?"
He heard her whimper and saw her left hand move up and then rest again in her lap. Thinking she must be in pain he rushed over to her.
"Are you in pain? What can I do to help you? Please allow me to help you."
She whimpered again, wishing she could bury herself under the carpet, as that was much closer than the outside garden and would require less effort.
"Please Mr. Darcy, the last thing I deserve is your help. After… after my horrible words to you in Hunsford and my less than lady-like behavior yesterday, what little I can remember, I am at a loss to understand your allowance of my presence in your home and anywhere near your sister."
She still could not look at him, would not look at him, but she needed to know what had occurred. Where were Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam?
"Elizabeth what did you say that I did not deserve? My behavior left much to be desired."
She whimpered again and then he realized she was castigating herself and had to bite back a smile.
"Please, can you tell me where Mr. Bingley and your cousin are?"
Knowing exactly what she was asking, but feeling he must do something to try and lift her spirits he answered.
"Bingley is riding to Longbourn to ask permission to court your sister, and the last I knew Anne was still at Rosing's Park."
That caused her to look at him and upon doing so, she saw a wry little smile accompanied by a glint in his eyes, but then that looked change to one of, what ….pain? Why was he in pain?
But Darcy's reaction was to her bruised face that she had quite forgotten about in her surprise to Mr. Darcy's comment.
Her right eyebrow arched, and Darcy felt like his Elizabeth was returning.
"Mr. Darcy you have picked a strange time to exhibit your sense of humor. Can you tell me where Colonel Fitzwilliam is?"
"Should I be offended, Miss Bennet, at your curiosity for my bachelor cousin's whereabouts?"
Her condition was such that any fast head movement was painful, so she did not look back at him, but commented,
"Lord, who knew you could be such a cruel tease? Please tell me that he has not also gone to Longbourn, or to Meryton."
Pulling a chair next to her, Darcy very cautiously proceeded to tell her what the formulated plan was. And then when she looked pale, he asked,
"Elizabeth what would you have us do? We cannot allow Wickham to continue unpunished. It was Wickham was it not who did this?"
Did she care for Wickham? After all this, was she protecting that rake?
She was trembling and said more to herself than anyone else.
"I will not marry him, no matter what my mother says. I will take a ship to America, change my name, but I will not marry him."
"Marry him? Why would you think ..?"
Darcy had jumped up and was pacing back and forth while looking at her with incredulity. Whatever she had been through had somehow terrified her into this unclear thinking.
"Miss Bennet?" but she did not respond.
"Miss Elizabeth, of course you will not be made to marry him! I know not what you have been through to cause you to even suspect that you would be forced to marry that despicable human being, but I believe that I would compromise you first before allowing that to happen."
"What?" she gasped. "Is that supposed to console me?"
"Perhaps not if you hate me as well, but I would feel better knowing that I might then be required to marry you and you can be certain that I would never mistreat you."
"I do not hate you Mr. Darcy."
She spoke in such a soft whisper he was not sure she had said it. And she did not fight his reasoning regarding his being required to marry her.
Darcy you are clutching at clouds.
"Pardon?"
Biting her lip and looking away and then breathing out in a huff she repeated her statement.
"I know you would not mistreat me sir, and while I am not in love with you and may yet learn to hate you with your delight for exasperating me, I do not now, at this moment, hate you Mr. Darcy."
Darcy looked down at her again, with his lips again fighting a smile. He was relieved that she was verbally sparring with him again. He did so miss this Elizabeth. When he did not respond she looked warily up at him and saw him with that smile again.
"Mr. Darcy, I appreciate your attempt at levity even at my expense, but could you show a little mercy towards an undeserving, improper, overindulging ungrateful woman such as I and tell me what occurred yesterday? What did I tell you, Mr. Bingley and the Colonel? And please sir, did Mr. Bingley read my letter?"
He again sat down and told her that, yes Charles had read the letter, and then what they had pieced together through her mumbling, her letter, and the Molson's recitation of events at Longbourn.
She had never clearly stated it was Wickham and now at least Darcy could understand her hesitancy. But they were all baffled by her references to Mr. Collins.
"What has my aunt's parson to do with any of this? We none of us could understand how his name came into this?"
After her explanation regarding the entail, and her refusal of the proposal from Mr. Collins, she told how her mother constantly berated her for not marrying her cousin. And that she also reminded her sister Jane, daily of her failure to capture Mr. Bingley.
"I could tolerate her scolding regarding Mr. Collins for he is a fool whom I could never marry, but poor Jane was constantly reminded how she lost Mr. Bingley. Feeling unworthy of the man with whom she was in love, Jane was sinking further into despondency every time my mother uttered his name. When I heard that Molly and Harold were coming to London I devised a plan to ride with them. And when Molly told me that Harold was to deliver papers to Mr. Bingley it mattered not to me what propriety dictated. Jane is too dear to me to watch her ride away with a man I feel certain would ruin her. And the last words I had heard my mother say before I essentially blacked out after, after the… attack, was again that I should have married Mr. Collins. They would have to find out who attacked me and force us to wed. Sensible or not, I am living in constant dread."
Relating this information had taken quite some time and no little energy and upon its completion, Elizabeth slumped onto the back of the settee.
At some point during her recitation Darcy had held her hand, but then had put it down. Her constitution being so unused to great quantities of alcohol was still in a state of recuperation and refusing his hand in hers would have required too much effort just yet. She permitted him to hold her hand, and felt the loss when her hand was no longer protected by his grasp.
Protected! Strange that he could inspire such a feeling in her.
Darcy was feeling nothing but shame that his arrogant behavior and belief should have led him to his actions in regard to Bingley and Miss Bennet. What pain he had caused for Miss Bennet. Who was he to discern other people's feelings? He had hid his own feelings so well, Elizabeth had not realized his own affection for her. That Miss Bennet was equally circumspect and serene in her behavior should not have been a surprise to him. Indeed, it should have been considered proper decorum. He had become so used to the fawning women of the ton that he forgot not all women behaved as Caroline Bingley did. There were some ladies that actually behaved properly; it was he who did not recognize it. He did not think he could ever forgive himself.
Then the thought that had been in his subconscious finally crystallized.
"Eliz… Miss Elizabeth, in your cleverly written letter to Bingley you did not mention my role in Bingleys' separation from your sister. Why was that?"
Only their breathing broke the quiet that came while Elizabeth tried to answer that question.
"After reading your letter I could not tell Jane or Mr. Bingley of what you call your role in their separation. It was not done with malice, as I feel Miss Bingley's action was. Then there is the appalling lack of propriety of my family, something Jane and I have been painfully aware of and lived with all these years. We have had to tolerate it, as nothing we say ever seems to influence them. That the behavior of my mother and youngest sisters ensures her greatest fear seems to completely escape her reasoning. And my father just will not expend the energy to correct their behavior. I do feel for her Mr. Darcy, for should my father precede her in leaving this world, she, and we, have very little to fall back on. Her failure to produce a son has been a double burden for her to carry and has most certainly affected what little sense she may have possessed."
And yet you refused my offer of marriage!
As though she could read his mind, she continued.
"With all this knowledge that I have just shared you might rightly ask why I did not accept your offer, Mr. Darcy. Believe me I have tried to answer that myself. The best I have come up with is that I am a romantic fool. It is most humbling, sir, for so misjudging you and for declining your offer in such a manner as I did. You must be very glad of your escape from my family."
"Please, Miss Bennet, you need not berate yourself. I still have your reasons ringing in my ears. It would appear more that I am presumptive conceited arse."
Neither person spoke for a little while, as Darcy tried to calm himself by looking out the window, but he could not stop himself from looking at Elizabeth. He wanted so much to hold her, but did not know if he would ever have the right to do so. He was startled when he heard her voice.
"But Mr. Darcy, I am a fool for my reasons were not founded on fact. I, who have always prided myself on my discernment of others character, chose to ignore what should have been obvious. So obvious that my Aunt Gardiner saw it immediately but I refused to acknowledge it! That a stranger should attack your character within minutes of my acquaintance and I did not question it! You had injured my vanity, and I could not forgive you, or rather chose not to forgive you, for taking away what little I had to recommend myself. I claimed to have laughed it off but I let it fester within my misguided pride. Why should it matter so much that you found me not tolerable enough to dance with? I certainly have not wanted to dance with every man who asked me whether or not he was handsome. Why could I not grant you the same privilege?"
There were tears filling her eyes but she no longer cared. Perhaps it was due to all that she had been through in the past four days; the past four weeks. Perhaps it was due to his proximity. Perhaps due to her overindulgence of alcohol. It mattered not. Due to her blindness to her own faults she had most likely lost whatever esteem he may have held for her. Honest tears could not lessen it any further.
"So you…so Mr. Collins proposed to you also? Yet, I was the last man…" he could not finish the statement, but Elizabeth could understand his question.
"Well, when you proposed, he was married, so he could no longer be the last man I would marry." And very softly, as if to herself, she added,
"Foolish me. I always thought that a woman was courted prior to a proposal, at least giving her some preparation, or warning."
Darcy shook his head trying not to allow any image of that oily parson with his Elizabeth. When he heard her soft words about being courted, it dawned on him that he may have courted her in his imagination and dreams, but she had been totally unaware of it. And apparently Mr. Collins had not properly courted her either, not that it would have helped him.
Though the door had been left slightly ajar for propriety's sake, Mrs. Perkins knocked to alert the couple that she was seeking to enter the room.
Darcy had been so caught up in her words and explanation that he had to shake his head back to awareness.
"Yes, who is it?" he called out without taking his eyes off Elizabeth who was staring down at her hands in her lap, keeping the left side of her face turned away from his view.
Announcing herself, Mrs. Perkins enquired as to their desires for tea. Did Miss Bennet wish to come to the dining room? For some reason, knowing that her appearance was so awful and still feeling very shaky, the idea of dining in the Darcy House dining room was the last straw for Elizabeth's reserve. As Mr. Darcy asked her preference she looked at him and started to speak but instead of words she started sobbing. Darcy felt his heart breaking for her at this point and sat next to her holding her and rocking her while she let all her pent up emotions wash out of her.
Mrs. Perkins immediately stepped out into the hall, shut the door and alerted the footman to allow now one into the room without alerting Mr. Darcy.
Later Lizzy would recall once again the special feeling of protectiveness that had enveloped her as Mr. Darcy held her, softly stating endearing words, and she could feel something on her head and her hair. It was of course Darcy occasionally kissing her without even his being aware of it.
Though he did not want to, once she was calm, he asked her about her relatives' address. He preferred to keep her there with him as long as possible, but propriety demanded that her relatives be made aware of her presence at Darcy House. Her energy was spent and she was escorted to her room to rest.
He took it upon himself to ride over to Gracechurch Street rather than write a letter. Elizabeth felt respect for these people so Darcy was not dreading meeting them quite as much as he normally would except for the news he must give them. Their house was well kept, and appeared of a good size with a carriage shed and housing for horses. A lad came for his horse and directed him to the front door. Upon presenting his card to the servant at the door he asked to see Mr. Gardiner concerning a matter of great importance. Instead of a gentleman greeting him, a gentlewoman stepped into the hallway. She looked to be a few years older than himself and was very gracious.
"Mr. Darcy, I am Mrs. Gardiner. My husband is at his warehouse but is expected back within the next half-hour. Would you care to wait inside or may I give him a message for you?"
Remembering that Elizabeth esteemed these people he decided to wait there and accepted her offer of sitting inside. He was impressed with the graciousness of the lady as well, and admired the comfort and taste of the house.
"May I ask sir, if you are Mr. Darcy of Derbyshire?"
Surprised he answered in the affirmative.
"Welcome to our home, sir, and may I say that I have been fortunate enough to visit your beautiful home, Pemberley, one Christmas time many years ago as a child. It has stayed in my memory as quite the most beautiful estate in England."
"How did you come to visit Pemberley, madam?"
"My father was a physician in Lambton and had been called to your estate for a servant, I believe, and your staff had just finished preparing the house for the holiday. We moved to London when I was still a young girl but I have long felt that Derbyshire is the loveliest county in all of England."
"Lambton. Why that is but five miles from Pemberley!"
"Yes sir…" however anything further she was to say was interrupted by two girls running into the room calling out to their mother. They stopped short upon seeing company.
"Mr. Darcy, may I introduce my daughters Miss Joanna and Miss Emily Gardiner."
Darcy stood, addressed them with a deep bow and in his warmest voice said,
"How do you do. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Both girls curtsied the younger one a little less stable in her carriage.
"How do you do Mr. Darcy."
Mrs. Gardiner excused herself to take her daughters to their governess, but Darcy stopped her.
"Do not do so on my account Mrs. Gardiner, I do not mind their company and after all I am the interloper."
"Oh please, you are not an interloper, and if the girls are here before long they will be joined by two brothers who will insist on equal privileges."
"I think I can brave the onslaught. What are you young ladies studying with your governess?"
Joanna, age 8, felt proud that she was reading ahead of her age group and told him so, while Emily, age 4, just looked up at him and declared,
"You are very tall."
Smiling at her, he agreed with her and then said.
"I hope not too tall."
"No." she pronounced.
"When my younger sister was your age she always thought it was good that I was tall, for she could ride on my shoulders. She seemed to enjoy that."
"It would be good to ride high up on your shoulders, for then Kenneth could not pull on my hair."
"Emily, you must not go on like that with company. Mr. Darcy is here to see your father and we have discovered that we both grew up in Derbyshire."
At this point Emily was sitting on her lap and Joanna sitting near her on the sofa, both of the girls openly staring at the tall man.
"You are from Lambton too Mr. Darcy?" asked Joanna.
"No, I am from Pemberley which is five miles from Lambton. Have either of you ever been there Miss Joanna, Miss Emily?"
Both girls silently shook their heads in the negative.
"Well, it is a very pleasant area and if you ever do go there, I hope you would do me the honor of calling on my family and I at Pemberley."
Mrs. Gardiner was a bit taken aback by this warm invite from a man she had never before met, but someone for whom her nieces and brother and sister had not held a high regard.
There is a mistake here somewhere, for this Mr. Darcy is not what my brother's family has described to me.
"Mr. Darcy would you care for some tea?"
Accepting her offer, the adults continued to discuss the benefits of the Derbyshire country. Soon Mr. Gardiner entered along with the younger two males of the family. The girls ran off to greet their father and Darcy smiled at the warmth of this family reunion. Mr. Gardiner stepped towards his wife to greet her with a little kiss on her cheek before realizing there was unfamiliar company also in their sitting room. His wife made the introductions, and Darcy was pleasantly surprised by the civility of Mr. Gardiner, who was nothing like his sister in Longbourn.
Asking to speak with Mr. Gardiner in private, the gentlemen went to the study where Darcy had the unenviable task of informing Mr. Gardiner regarding some of the happenings of his niece, Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
Darcy watched as the countenance of her uncle paled upon hearing all that had occurred. The letter sent from Mr. Bennet had not been sent express so the Gardiners were not yet informed of the misfortunes that had befallen Miss Elizabeth.
"Mr. Gardiner, I was only given your name and address two hours ago, by Miss Elizabeth. She is currently resting and recuperating at my house, where my sister and her companion, Mrs. Annesley, are in residence. My physician has suggested she not be moved just yet, perhaps waiting another forty-eight hours. She was able to take in some broth today so it would seem that she is on the mend."
Mr. Gardiner then suggested he must discuss this with his wife, as the eldest Bennet sisters were very dear to her. After repeating the story for Mrs. Gardiner he witnessed how similar her reaction was to her husband's in regard to her niece. Mr. Gardiner poured a glass of wine for all three of them, while they tried to decide what was best to do. They of course, wanted to bring Lizzy to their home right away.
"Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, I must warn you that Miss Elizabeth's countenance does not look at all pleasing presently. While I have been assured by my physician that it should mend well in time, I fear for the reaction of your children to her facial appearance at its present, uhm, discoloration."
Hearing these words caused Mrs. Gardiner to release the tears that until now she had been in control of. She quietly said,
"Edmund, I must go to her."
"Yes, by all means my dear. Mr. Darcy, we thank you for all that you have done and are doing but we must ask to call on Lizzy this evening."
"Of course, I had expected that you would wish to see her. Please feel comfortable in visiting her at your leisure; you may certainly go immediately as I have already instructed my housekeeper to expect you. You may plan on dining there, if you so desire."
It was but a short time later that the Gardiners' carriage accompanied by Mr. Darcy on his horse pulled up to the Darcy House. Elizabeth was again sleeping this time lying on her right side. Upon entering their niece's chambers, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner gasped at the sight of their beautiful niece, whose left face was quite discolored and swollen. Both relatives had to step outside and back into the sitting room to gain their composure. Darcy could understand their distress, and did everything in his power to make them as comfortable as possible.
To keep her company, Miss Darcy had been sitting by the bedside reading. She stepped out into to the sitting room and was introduced to the Gardiners' and shyly informed them that their niece seemed much improved this afternoon.
"She especially favored our cook's chicken and vegetable broth."
Upon saying that Georgie gave her brother a slightly impertinent look. He perfectly understood it.
Ah yes, the elexir to survive intemperance, a la Mrs. Ridgeway. I can appreciate Elizabeth's need for it.
Darcy was surprised by Georgie's behavior, as she rarely could overcome her shyness to speak with strangers. But Georgiana had discovered the strength that came along with helping someone in need of assistance. It took away one's self-absorption by focusing on another's greater discomfort. That the person in need could soon be her own sister, if Miss Bennet did indeed become Mrs. Darcy, added more purpose to her behavior.
Looking up at her brother's surprised countenance, she blushed, but continued to tell all three people that Miss Bennet had allowed her to read her some poetry to help her relax.
"She seems to be a very sweet lady, and I am glad to help in any way that I, that seems… that could help."
Even in all their discomfort for their niece it was apparent to both Gardiners that Miss Darcy was painfully shy and herself quite sweet. Their light supper was ordered and served in the sitting room, so the family could be near by if their niece awoke. By the time all four had eaten and were speaking quite comfortably, especially given the circumstances, the maid stepped out to alert them that Miss Bennet was again awake.
Unfortunately the little family reunion had the effect of once again causing tears from the women and the composure of Mr. Gardiner to be sorely taxed. After divulging to her aunt and uncle everything she felt comfortable discussing, Elizabeth insisted on getting up from the bed and walking at least as far as the sitting room. She also wanted to request some more of the chicken soup.
"Why does everyone think my legs are not working? They are the strongest part of my physical being at the present and in great need of exercise."
Trying to inject some levity into her current circumstance, the words were spoken before she realized that the Darcy's were standing near the window in the sitting room and both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy turned red. She recalled that the day before he had carried her from the carriage up to this sitting room, and he recalled her stubborn insistence the day before of her ability to walk. Her insistence he himself had stubbornly overridden by giving in to his selfish need to hold her and simply lifting her in his arms not allowing her to navigate the long hallway and staircase. He had been right of course, she would not have been able to walk a straight line.
After much discussion, it was decided that Miss Bennet would remain at Darcy House at least for the next few days. Once they were apprised of events in Meryton and Longbourn, they could make further decisions.
Mr. Darcy congratulated himself on keeping Elizabeth in his house, and Elizabeth felt surprisingly grateful to be staying there. She realized her appearance would have created many disturbing questions to her young cousins, and she did not have a clue as to what she would tell them.
After the Gardiners left Darcy asked his sister to meet him in his study. She was owed an explanation and an apology.
"Georgie, I must beg you for your forgiveness, but please wait to ask any questions until after I try to explain some of the reasons for my behavior."
"Of course, Wills, but please don't think you must do this."
"Oh, but I must, for by not explaining in full all I know of Wickham to the people of Meryton he has once again insinuated himself in the lives of some good people. My silence regarding his character has caused other people harm, and it may be necessary to fully disclose our history with the man."
"Did he do this to Miss Bennet?"
"We think so, but she has so far claimed amnesia regarding her attacker. If she is hiding her knowledge it is with good reason, for she is trying to protect her family's privacy as well as any repercussions to herself."
And with that Darcy launched into all that had happened from his first meeting with Miss Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly until he handed her his letter the day after his Hunsford proposal.
The two siblings sat quietly for a few minutes until Georgie went over to her brother and held his hand.
"Wills, thank you for telling me all this. I know how hard this is for you, but please answer me this question. You are not going to give up are you?"
"Give up?"
"Yes, give up. She is here for a few days, essentially captive, and vulnerable. I will do my best to point out all that is wonderful about you, but it is up to you to show her that side of you, to demonstrate your caring and protective nature."
"How do I do that? I haven't been able to protect her from Wickham."
"Oh, but you did, don't you see? Due to your letter disclosing everything in regards to George, she had an awareness of his less than gentlemanly character and probably had her defensiveness alerted. Otherwise she may not have been able to protect herself at all."
"But Georgie, you see how bruised she is, I could have prevented all that from happening, if I hadn't been so full of my own pride. I may have told her about him, but didn't give her leave to tell anyone else. The rake should have never been allowed into Longbourn or any other respectable home."
"If you were not trying to protect my reputation, would you have told them about him?"
"I don't know, Georgie, I just don't know."
Georgie stood and started pacing in front of the fireplace, causing Darcy to think that it was a family trait. Then she addressed her brother.
"Wills, do you still love her?"
" Uh, Georgie, I cannot even begin to…"
"Forgive me, I do not really expect an answer, at least not yet. Both of you misunderstood each other, but now there is no more misunderstanding. She knows you love her and want to marry her. Well, you did before her rejection. However, if you love her and still wish to give me the sister I deserve, then you must let her know that."
Darcy was astonished by his little sister.
"When did you grow up and become so wise?"
"You should not be so surprised, my dear, dear brother, I do have eyes and ears, and have listened to all you told me and read all that you wrote me."
"Wrote you?"
"Yes. Your letters from Netherfield had comments both about Miss Bingley and Miss Bennet. I reread them last night, and you commented regarding Caroline's presumptions of your affections where there were none, as you never gave her cause to aspire to be your wife, never raised her expectations to be anything more than the sister of your good friend. Yet she clung to you whenever she could.
"You commented that Miss Jane Bennet was demure and polite but you did not think she was attracted to Charles. Then in the next sentence you write about Miss Elizabeth's liveliness and intelligence.
"You never wrote about her expectations of you because she most likely did not have any. You were very careful not to raise any and she did not know you enough to realize that all that time you were watching her in admiration. You said yourself that she most likely overhead your disparaging comment at the Meryton Assembly.
"Give her time. She now knows you admire her, but let her know that you still care for her. Court her."
"Do you really think it is not too late?"
"Wills, she said herself she does not hate you."
"Court her." Darcy said this more to himself.
"Did you ever stop to think how George does it? Of course with him, it is all too glib, none the less it is a compliment to have an attractive man pay attention to you, for it is not everyday that it happens. You may value her and her opinions, but did she know that?"
Darcy was wearing a little smile as he approached his sister. He hugged her and then lifted her up and spun her around.
"Thank you Georgie. I promise you she will know it."
And the two Darcy's then went to retire for the evening each feeling far more hopeful than they had at the start of the day.
Chapter 9
Posted on September 18, 2009
Longbourn
Bingley having been required by military order to stay quarantined at Longbourn took full advantage of the time he was 'forced' to stay so near his beloved.
Within the first ten minutes of his enforced stay he informed Jane and her father of his sister Caroline's duplicity in keeping Miss Bennet's presence in London hidden.
It was further established that there was never any thought, on his part, of becoming engaged to Miss Darcy since she was more of a younger sister to him. Also, she would not be out for two more years and obviously at sixteen, was still too young to be required to undergo the scrutiny of the ton in regards to society as befits young ladies.
The rest of that afternoon and evening passed with Miss Bennet and Mr. Bingley in conversation and in renewing their acquaintance. The next morning, after a walk in the gardens, Mr. Bingley visited Mr. Bennet and was given permission to court the eldest Bennet daughter, with the hopes of winning Miss Bennet's hand in marriage.
While Mr. Bennet had agreed to allow Mr. Bingley to court Jane with the hope of winning her hand in marriage, he had not truly expected the man to act so determined as to pay him a return visit the next day. But as the courting was completed within the second morning, the marriage proposal being tendered and accepted by Miss Bennet before lunch, Mr. Bingley again sought Mr. Bennet for a private discussion. Mr. Bennet gave his future son-in-law his consent and blessing, and since the settlement papers were presented by Mr. Bingley, all that was left to discuss was the length of the engagement.
Later that evening, Mr. Bingley was delivered an express post from Colonel Fitzwilliam, with the soldier told to await any answer from Mr. Bingley.
Mr. Bingley was informed that the prisoner, Lieutenant Wickham, would be placed aboard a prison ship five day's hence.
If Mr. Bingley felt that he could conduct his business at Netherfield without divulging any of the military happenings, he had the colonel's permission to do so.
Bingley perused that thought before continuing the letter.
…………………to do so.
Otherwise, I would strongly suggest that you remain at Longbourn until receiving word of the prison ship departure.
Perhaps while there Mr. Bennet would school you as to the peculiarities of running an estate in Hertfordshire. You in turn could let your host know of certain schools that are excellent for encouraging the proper deportment for young ladies. By all means, Bingley, point out to him that those secluded in the country are of a far more affordable tuition than those near the cities. I have taken the liberty of including a short list of such establishments within a few hours from Longbourn.
You need not ponder deeply as to how or why a man in my position would even be aware of such a list. Let us just say that it is my profession that brings about this awareness. I could regale you for hours with some of the stories of the militia and local young maidens. I look forward to sharing such tales on a cold rainy night in Darcy's well-stocked library or your billiard parlor. That of course is assuming that neither of you gathered enough courage to again approach the women of your desires.
You may also inform Mr. Bennet that the militia will be departing from the Meryton area within 6 days time, and while that may too short for some young maidens, I am assured there will be a collective sigh of relief by a majority of households in that pretty little area of the country.
It is enough to create a feeling of unworthiness in a handsome fellow such as myself. No wonder I am grateful for the appreciative glances given we soldiers when we are in our regimentals, preferably by women of sense and education to quote our fair Miss Elizabeth. But I forget you were not there at Rosings Park to witness my cousin's discomfort at her wit. I am certain you have enjoyed witnessing Darcy being bested in verbal battle by the delightful Miss Elizabeth as much as I have.
Tales for yet another rainy evening. I do so look forward to the addition of Miss Bennet to our extended family, whether it be Miss Elizabeth or Miss Jane, preferably both.
On that note, I will be visiting my cousin tomorrow evening and do hope that his houseguest will be looking and feeling more like her prior charming self. I trust that you are enjoying the fair countenance of Miss Elizabeth's elder sister, thereby ensuring that the younger sister did not make her journey in vain. You have four more days to make the best of your enforced quarantine.
But Bingley, let me assure (warn, threaten) you that if you decide to not reside in Netherfield or you have for some unfathomable reason not requested the hand of the lovely Miss Bennet, she will not be left unattended. You need not feel pressured to do anything you do not wish to for I would not want you to feel shackled to a women beneath your sister's social aspirations.
Nor would I want to see Miss Bennet trapped in a loveless union. I may not have your income but I do believe a beauty such as she would be ample incentive to live within my adequate income and allowance as a second son of an Earl. I feel it is my duty as an officer in service to His Majesty's forces to absolutely not allow Miss Bennet to be shipped off to a northern county in employ as a governess. And I would work daily at gaining her affection, believe me I do not look upon that activity as a chore but as a delight. It would be no trouble I assure you.
So I say again, do not feel pressured into offering for her hand, but do send me an express with your decision. Depending on your response I will instruct my officers to be ready to take you to the closest Bedlam hospital.
Either way, I shall be happy to pass any news on to Miss Elizabeth so that she need not fear for her sister traveling to Durham.
Officer Stewart will await your response, (for I am assuming a cadre of men will not be necessary to cart you off to regain your misplaced sanity) and any other correspondence from the Longbourn estate that you may deem appropriate to be personally carried by myself to Darcy House. Perhaps you could dictate your answer, for I am far too familiar with you handwriting skills and your penchant for blots. Remind me Bingley, you attended which higher institute of learning?
Yours etc.
Colonel R. Fitzwilliam
"Cambridge, Colonel Fitzwilliam, just as you." Bingley said this to no one in particular. "And Earl's son or not, you are too late."
But even after saying that, Charles was nearly overcome with a wave of gratitude. He had come so close to losing his angel and then he truly would have been a candidate for Bedlam.
I will thank you, Miss Elizabeth, each and every day of my marriage for your bravery.
Informing Mr. Bennet of both the Militia and Wickham's date of departure both gentlemen took in a deep breath of relief. Mr. Bennet poured two drinks into tumblers and they sat down to further discuss their future plans.
Jane was called in and the three sat down to write their letters, while the military courier was invited to rest and dine in the kitchen. Mary also asked to forward a letter to her sister.
London
The next evening found the colonel bounding up the steps to his cousin's town house, whistling the same ditty that an intoxicated Miss Elizabeth had been singing as she had been carried through Darcy House a few days earlier.
How much has changed in just a few days. I have not felt this hopeful for Darcy in years. And I have certainly been enjoying the privilege of my rank to manipulate a few occurrences. Of course Bingley may not invite me to his wedding but at least there will be one!
Arriving in time for the evening meal, Richard sauntered into the dining room to see Miss Bennet had joined his cousin's in the smaller dining room. Darcy was seated with Elizabeth to his left and Georgie on his right. Richard was all set to sit on Miss Bennet's left when he realized due to her holding an open fan that she was sitting there so the other diners did not see that side of her face. He approached Georgie kissing her cheek, nodded to Darcy and bowed to Miss Bennet, and then sat at Georgiana's right hand side.
"Miss Bennet, it is delightful to share an evening meal with you once again, even if we are deprived of my aunt's attention to details as to the minutia of our daily lives."
Lizzy and Georgie could not stop the giggle his comment caused, while Darcy just had a slight upturn of his lips. Realizing that Richard was in exceptionably agreeable mood, Darcy correctly thought matters were under control. But Lizzy was as nervous as a cat and anxious to find out what had occurred at Longbourn. She barely spoke out of embarrassment and fear, and her eyes kept looking to the Colonel hoping he would say something to alert her but she dared not ask in front of Miss Darcy.
Using the fan that Miss Darcy had lent her she nodded her head and she leaned into the open fan before speaking. She could not know the reaction that this created within Mr. Darcy. To him she seemed a beautiful apparition from a Spanish play. He had to force himself to pay attention to what she was saying. Expressing her regrets to eat much more than the marvelous soup, she was grateful no one pressed her to eat more.
Richard commented on their fondness for this particular soup and she realized it must be one they were familiar with for the same reason as she had been introduced to it. This enabled her to contribute somewhat to the table discussion.
"Mr. Darcy it would appear that Mrs. Ridgeway has the makings of a magic potion. I can not tell you just how much I have enjoyed this marvelous soup over the last two days. When Miss Darcy first brought me the soup, I was certain that she was an angel, and I do believe I almost kissed her feet in gratitude."
The three cousins laughed and Georgiana who wore a small smile of smugness. She had gone down to the kitchen insisting that the soup be made for Miss Bennet.
"Yes, Miss Bennet my fair cousin has seen her brother and I ingest it many times over the years, and I dare say she knew it was just what the 'doctor' ordered in this case."
"Well, Fitzwilliam, Miss Bennet had the graciousness and intelligence to go directly to Mrs. Ridgeway to thank her as well. As a consequence, I can guarantee that while she may not be given the secret recipe I think that whatever else she wishes to eat she will find it prepared by our cook."
As if to emphasize the master's point, Elizabeth was presented with a most delicious custard pudding for dessert. Mrs. Ridgeway made sure that Miss Bennet would enjoy her meals even if chewing was still not something she could comfortably partake in.
"Forgive me Colonel, but do I dare ask how my family fares in Longbourn? WilI I find the need of an after dinner wine, no matter how little the thought of it pleases me at the moment?"
"Miss Bennet things are going very well indeed, and everything in Longbourn and Meryton is currently under good regulation."
With a smile and a wink that told her that things were indeed well, she took in a deep breath and nodded with some relief. Without any thought to propriety Darcy reached under the table to grasp her hand in encouragement. For some reason, she did not want him to release his grasp and found her self responding by squeezing his hand bringing a change to his countenance that both of his relatives saw. They just looked at each other with widened eyes and small smiles, and continued in conversation with each other.
Darcy was lost to any conversation with his relatives as he continued to gaze at Elizabeth, who was trying to find an explanation of her behavior.
I have no control over this new feeling of being protected. I do not want to let it go. Of course, I have no right to expect Mr. Darcy to harbor still those feelings he professed in Hunsford, but he is being so kind, so tender.
On his part Darcy was feeling encouraged by Elizabeth's response.
Tonight. I will ask to court her, tonight. And if she will allow it, I will visit Longbourn tomorrow. But then of course, she will have to move to Gracechurch Street. Well, one worry at a time. She may not agree to my request!
The three other diners looked at Darcy when they heard his sudden groan.
"Darcy, are you well?"
Realizing now his thoughts had once again caused him to forget his surroundings he cursed himself and replied,
"Yes, Richard, I am well, just remembering all that I still need to get accomplished in the next few days."
Upon entering the library after dining Richard announced,
"I do have some correspondence for you Miss Bennet and you also Darcy. However, first I am happy to inform you that there is currently a resident in military brig, a certain ex-lieutenant Wickham, soon to depart on a prison ship to Australia, for non payment of debts as well as conduct unbecoming. Fear not, Miss Bennet, your name was never mentioned."
With this news, Lizzy brought her hand to her bent forehead as she took in many breaths to keep her equilibrium and to avoid tears to form yet again, even tears of relief. Darcy was immediately by her side, asking if she would indeed like a glass of wine. Shaking her head, she replied.
"I thank you, no. My stomach and my head are still not ready for that sir, I am just so overcome with relief."
Richard continued, "It appears that Wickham had charmed more than one daughter of tradesmen in Hertfordshire County, with witnesses who came forward when questioned regarding his outstanding debts. I must say it was not too difficult to round up fellow soldiers to help in his arrest. Amazing how eager some men can be to instill retribution on a soldier for blackening the reputation of the militia, especially when that same blackguard owes them a great deal of money lost in gambling."
Letting out a little chuckle he continued.
"Of course, I chose to take men from their free time off and press them into duty, ensuring their quick cooperation."
With that he handed three letters to Elizabeth and two to Darcy.
Bingley and Mr. Bennet wrote to Darcy and Elizabeth had letters from Jane, Mary and her father.
Deciding to read Jane's letter first, Lizzy soon was wearing as large a smile as she could painfully bear.
Bingley had indeed proposed to Jane and they were deciding many of the wedding details whilst Charles was in enforced residence at Longbourn, for at least four more days.
"Colonel, how is it that Mr. Bingley is forced to reside at Longbourn?"
Upon hearing this question Darcy was torn from his letter, as he was also curious how it came to be the Bingley was staying at Longbourn for such an extended period.
"Ah yes, Miss Bennet, a very good question. You see as I endeavored to explain to your father, whom I must admit did not seem to favor this restriction of everyone at Longbourn, I made a military decision. To whit, anyone with any knowledge of said occurrence must be kept under curfew until such time as the investigation, arrest and transport of the person who attacked you was properly put away for said transgression. So as to keep your name out of it I merely had quarantine signs posted keeping people away and the estate populace at home. There had been rumors of a highly infectious fever and I simply utilized my discretionary powers to nip everything in the bud, so to speak."
Not entirely sure if the Colonel was truthful and concerned for the health of her family, Lizzy asked.
"And this fever, Colonel? Was any one ill at Longbourn?"
"No, however, your father had used the claim of fever to discourage visitors to Longbourn when your were indisposed. Now since high fevers are known to cause raptures, I simply employed military tactics to keep any signs of the fever and raptures from spreading. Let us just say that there is history of many young people, especially young maidens, known to have a case of 'raptures' whenever the militia is in the neighborhood. Not only did it keep said 'fevers' from spreading, there was no chance of information leaking out about the prisoner."
"I am not sure you should ever show your face to my father again as his peace and quiet for the better part of a week will most likely be nonexistent."
"Such are the trials one must bear in times of war, Miss Bennet. However, I did supply your father with a great deal of information and time to consider how to use that information. I am fairly sure he is not too happy with me at forcing it upon him. But the ever amiable Bingley was there to help his future father-in-law survive the disturbance of solitude."
Elizabeth cringed at the thought of her father forced to listen to his wife and younger daughter's cries and wailing that would most likely occur due to the fact they could not attend any dances for the departing military. And what would her mother's lamentations do to Mr. Bingley?
In his letter to his second daughter, Mr. Bennet first expressed relief she was safe and then admonished her for her secret departure. He gave a brief description of the household's state of uproar, which to Lizzy seemed subdued. He wanted an express from her as to her current state of health and safety, and expected her back at Longbourn as soon as the curfew/quarantine was lifted.
In the meantime, Lizzy you must go and impose on your uncle Gardiner for the duration of your stay. I have given the Colonel as well as Mr. Darcy the direction and have posted a letter to your uncle in this regard.
Elizabeth thought about that for a moment and decided not to say anything to her host about this directive from her father. After all, her father was not aware of the decisions made by her relatives and Mr. Darcy.
From her sister Mary, came a most surprising letter. She expressed her concern for her sister's health and her approval for the
'good sense and comportment of the estimable Colonel Fitzwilliam. For the first time I can appreciate someone in uniform if not for the same reason as my younger sisters.'
"Colonel Fitzwilliam, I know not what you may have said to my sister Mary, but she gives you more praise than I ever thought possible from her for a mere human being, especially a soldier."
"Miss Elizabeth, may I comment that your younger sister has a great deal of concern for you. I would fear for my prisoner's safety if she was ever allowed near him, and for my own if I did not do my job to her satisfaction. She will be quite a formidable woman, some day."
Darcy was reading his letter from Mr. Bennet, who expressed his gratitude for caring for his daughter, and thanking him for his offer of housing at the Darcy House. He however had to decline the offer and add a demand that Lizzy be moved to her relative's care. Just in case Lizzy had not supplied the address of the Gardiners' that was included along with the fact that the Colonel had been asked to contact them as well.
Well, Darcy thought, fortunately the Gardiners' had agreed that Miss Elizabeth's young cousins should not see her until such time as her discoloration was completely gone. Therefore I will keep her here with m…, with my sister for a little while longer. With the letter's request, Darcy decided to rethink his request for courting Elizabeth at the present time.
Bingley's letter, what Darcy could make out of it, was full of joy. His angel forgave him, and they were to be married. Would Darcy stand up for him? The date was still uncertain, but most likely within three months.
To Darcy the most surprising part was that Bingley felt he would not be renewing the lease at Netherfield beyond the second year, and if Darcy could enquire about estates closer to Pemberley,
" especially if Miss Elizabeth should accept your courtship and marriage proposal. Stranger things have been known to happen Darcy, and then we could truly be brothers, but just not too close to the mother-in-law."
He had also asked if Darcy would give his future sister, Miss Elizabeth, the other note enclosed.
Darcy waited until Elizabeth finished her letters. A task he found delightful as he enjoyed watching her as she perused her letters. When he gave her the note, she looked surprised at seeing it was from Bingley.
Dear Miss Elizabeth,
How will I ever thank you for your travel in all your pain and distress? Every day that I am blessed to be with my Dearest Jane, I will give god thanks for your most timely intervention. your love and care for your sister have been displayed yet again, and this time to my great benefit.
Whatever you may require that I could find in my power and capability to give you, you need to do naught but ask. I will always do my duty to you as a brother and friend.
I am forever in your debt.
Your Ever grateful, soon to be brother,
Charles Bingley.
It was the next day that Darcy asked if Elizabeth would care to walk with him in the garden. After the maid assisted her with her bonnet and veil, she felt brave enough to be accompanying Mr. Darcy. While at first conversation was stilted, Lizzy was finally able to voice her gratitude to him for all his kindness to her and her relatives.
He in his turn, apologized to her again for his abominable and presumptuous proposal at Hunsford. He could not stop himself from continuing with his requesting permission to court her. He had meant to wait but with her proximity and behavior he had begun to feel hope.
"Miss Elizabeth, will you allow me or do I ask too much, that is after everything we have said to each other over the past two months, and the past two days, I would like to…."
He may have started his question due to the rebirth of his hope, but he was suddenly feeling once again tongue-tied in the presence of Elizabeth. On her part she stated that she felt the need to sit on the bench that was placed near an ivy covered wall. To her astonishment Mr. Darcy's was exhibiting behavior very reminiscent of their last talk at Hunsford.
As he paced in front of her, he tried to remember all the correct words to say this time and not the cold insulting things that he had said to her on that same occasion.
"Miss Bennet, the other day, you mentioned the fact that you had not been courted prior to being given a proposal of marriage, and I would hope to rectify that situation, although I admit to being very tardy. You are too generous to trifle with me, and if your feelings are still what they were in April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged, but one word from you will silence me on this subject for ever."
Elizabeth heard his words, but could scarcely believe her ears! He still wished to marry her! He did not want to escape from her! The silence unfortunately was tearing Darcy's usual controlled comportment to shreds.
"Miss Bennet, I apologize for any discomfort this unwanted outburst may have given you. You need not worry……"
"Mr. Darcy, you are asking to court me?"
Sensing no displeasure in her voice or manner, Darcy felt a little more hopeful.
"Yes, Miss Elizabeth, if you agree. I would very much like to court you. It is my utmost desire that you can see that your reproofs of my behavior have been attended to and perhaps we can truly get to know each other, as much as anyone is able to do prior to a marriage."
Looking up at him Elizabeth could not fathom how this had come to be. She was siting there with a veil attached to her bonnet to hide her facial discoloration and he was still wishing for her hand.
What manner of man is he? Yes, he would be worth the time it would take to become better acquainted.
"Mr. Darcy, I do not mean to discredit you, but are you sure you know what you are about?"
He smiled at her quite unsettling what little composure she possessed.
"Miss Elizabeth, I think by now you must know that I am a man who is determined, perhaps akin to a certain young woman rising to a challenge."
"Oh."
Nothing was said for a few minutes, and finally Darcy heard her say the word he was waiting for, but still could not quite believe.
"Yes."
"Yes?"
"Yes, Mr. Darcy. I would certainly not want you to think you love a woman who would be twice a fool. May I suggest, however, that we keep this as an understanding between us for the present time. For a request to court me from my father or uncle, will most certainly cause my family to demand my immediate return."
If Elizabeth had thought his previous smile had unsettled her, the present look on his handsome face sent her senses reeling.
Darcy felt as if he was suddenly floating on air and was acquainted with such happiness and hope as he had never felt before. He knew his face must mirror Bingley's smitten smile, but he did not care.
Later that week, Georgiana was playing music for Elizabeth. She was usually too shy to play in front of strangers, but she wanted to please the woman she hoped would soon be her sister. The two ladies had spent the afternoon learning more about each other and when Elizabeth had asked for the privilege of hearing her play, Miss Darcy shyly agreed to entertain her.
"Thank you, Miss Darcy. And please let me take this opportunity to beg your forgiveness for my disgraceful appearance on the day we met. Let me assure you that it was the first time that I have ever been under the influence of spirits, and I do not think it will ever occur again. I know not how gentlemen can so often imbibe great quantities of brandy or port and still function the next day."
"Oh, please call me Georgiana, and I do not know that they truly function. I know I have seen my cousin some mornings at the breakfast table when he can barely speak and has no tolerance for loud noises such as a cup being placed in a saucer."
Laughing together they both agreed that the Colonel not able to speak would be cause for alarm.
"Please call me Elizabeth, or Lizzy. Your cousin and brother are more alike at those times than is their normal behavior?"
"Yes, Richard generally can 'drink most men under the table' as he calls it. My brother is far more temperate, although lately I think Wills was trying to compete with him. Most mornings he would not even come to breakfast."
Elizabeth looked down as Georgiana described her brother's despondent state since his return from Kent. It upset her to think of how her terrible words at Hunsford had affected him. Jane had often warned her to beware of her quick tongue. How different did this new and tender Darcy now appear. How could she have so misjudged him and still have his regard?
"But now he is back to himself, well sort of. For I do not think I have ever seen him quite this happy. Sometimes he is actually giddy!"
Chapter 10
Ten weeks later there was such a joyous wedding in Hertfordshire that had not been seen in recent memory and probably would not be seen again for many years. The rumor mills of Meryton were as busy as the modistes and the milliners. The week prior to the actual ceremony was one of feverish activity both of deeds and words.
Overhearings on the streets of Meryton during the weeks surrounding the ceremony at Longbourn chapel included:
"Did you know that Mr. Bingley came back to Netherfield and must have brought a fever, for he was quarantined at Longbourn for nearly a week? Then the engagement of Miss Bennet and Mr. Bingley had taken place even before the quarantine was lifted! Do you think he compromised Miss Bennet?"
"No, I think the fever was there before Mr. Bingley visited there, and he must have been forced to stay at Longbourn until the quarantine was lifted."
"And what of that Lieutenant Wickham? Why he owed money to nearly every establishment in town, not to mention some daughters that were sent off to relatives, said to be in the family way."
"Then Miss Elizabeth comes back two weeks after the quarantine was lifted, traveling with of all people Mr. Darcy and his sister, in their grand carriage! When did she leave? The last everyone knew she was at Longbourn, nursing a fever."
"I heard that Mr. Bennett and Mr. Darcy had some disagreeable words regarding the losing of some directions and that Miss Elizabeth was called upon to placate both men."
"And did you not hear of how that handsome Mr. Darcy personally visited the local tradesmen and announced that due to his great happiness of becoming engaged to marry Miss Elizabeth he would cover Wickham's debts. This after all those terrible things that lieutenant had said about the proud Mr. Darcy."
"Longbourn was visited by Lady Catherine de Bourgh and in such a grand barouche! She must have come to pay her regard to her new niece, and while she stayed but a short time, it showed such an honor for our Miss Elizabeth!"
"Two nights before the actual wedding ceremony, there was a boisterous grooms' party over at the Red Lion. Mr. Bennet, Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Hurst, Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy, and one Colonel Fitzwilliam and his father the Earl of ---, were having a rousing time singing and buying rounds of ale for all in the neighborhood. It appeared that many of the grooms' unmarried university mates were in attendance for the wedding, that 'no one ever thought would happen'."
"Yes, they said that many bets had been placed at clubs in the ton regarding said marriage of Mr. Darcy and some fewer of Mr. Bingley."
" Word spread rather quickly to all sorts of men in the vicinity of Longbourn, Meryton, and the greater Hertfordshire area of the chance for free lager."
" 'Quicker than any fever,' so the Colonel was heard to say to no one in particular early in the evening."
"And you know, I, with me own eyes saw both Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy step outside together and lift their beverages to the Assembly Hall above the pub as Mr. Darcy said,
'To you Charles for taking me to an Assembly Hall such as this, my cup runneth over with gratitude.'
Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley clinked their tankards together and the second gent said.
'I say Darcy, you are developing quite a taste for savage country manners.' "
"Many gents were seen to stagger out of that pub that evening praising the Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, and the good sense those gentlemen had for capturing Meryton's own Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth Bennet."
"I heard told that there were so many dishes to be prepared for the wedding that Miss Elizabeth had sent for Mr. Darcy's cook from London. Express, don't you know on the day all those gents was carousin' at the Red Lion!"
"The cook arrived early the next morning at Netherfield and spent the day cooking great big pots of some sort of soup. Soup! How strange is that? It was not even white soup!"
"And there were deliveries made by the Molson's, you know they are now fully employed by the Bingleys, she is the head maid and he is the person in charge of the carriages and stable. But I digress, where was I ? Oh yes, the Molson's and some other maids made soup deliveries to Longbourn and to all the Inns and homes that the gentlemen visitors from London and Cambridge was housed at."
"I hear tell that a couple of maids were given great big hugs upon delivering the soup. Why, little Hannah that new maid at Netherfield, said she never had so many men nearly worshipin' her as she served them hot bowls of the spicy stuff. Not something one would think could cause a man to forget his sphere and station in life."
"None of the maids seem to complain though, well except Lucy who delivered some to the Lucas home and to Mr. Collins. She never thought she would hear a preacher place her up there in the heavens on a level with the angels. She ran out of there as fast as she could, as Mr. Collins thought he should be thanking her kinda personal, if you understand my meaning?"
Afterwards whenever mention of that evening was raised, the locals who frequented the Red Lion said the upper classes were a funny sort of bunch.
"Why did you know they kept toasting the Good Colonel and 'fevers'?"
"Imagine, toasting fevers!"
"Well the wedding was two days after that night and while it did not appear that either groom had any fever, they both did seem somewhat pale and nervous, until they finally walked back out of the church, with their brides on their arms. The good Colonel Fitzwilliam was given many hugs and handshakes as though he was a groom or father of the bride. It was all most peculiar."
"The next week after the wedding, Mr. Bennet was seen leaving Longbourn with his two youngest daughters. Rumor has it they have been sent off to a proper finishing school as would befit those young women associated with the name of Darcy.
"Miss Mary has been sent to a music school in London accompanied on the trip by Miss Darcy and that Colonel Fitzwilliam. He said he had to have a discussion with Miss Mary, now Miss Bennet, that was of utmost import in regards to military strategic planning."
"Miss Mary Bennet!"
"Oh, but did she not seem so much prettier than her norm on the day of the wedding. Such an improvement! And did she not blush so very often whenever the Colonel and some other gentlemen from town spoke with her?"
" Miss Kitty and Miss Lydia went to seminaries for young ladies.
Miss Lydia went to one that's run by nuns. NUNS!"
"If you ask me, it will take more than Nuns to control that young women, the way she likes to chase after young men."
"So now 'tis very quiet at Longbourn, too quiet for the mistress. Mrs. Bennet spends her time visiting her neighbors with stories about her 'favorite daughter' in Derbyshire. And Mr. Bennet retires to his study with some new books sent to him by his second son and old port sent by the first."
"All the better to ward off any fevers," he has been heard to say.
Finis.