Posted on: 2009-01-26

Chapter Two

I had never been to Hertfordshire before but found the countryside quite pleasant as I rode next to John and Charles with the carriage containing Charles's sisters and brother-in-law following behind. It was early afternoon on a warm, sunny day in late September, and the trees were just beginning to change color. Various shades of red and gold dotted the low hillsides that stretched around us. We were nearing the town of Meryton, which was just in the middle of Longbourn, John's estate, and Netherfield, the estate Bingley had leased in his continuing quest to become part of the landed gentry.

As I took in the view, I contemplated the strange set of circumstances that had led me to this point in the summer. John Bennet had been a good friend to both Charles and me while we were all at Cambridge together. We had met while I was attempting to teach Charles how to fence properly. Charles had always had a short attention span, and being a jovial, non-confrontational type, he had no attention at all for combative sports. John came upon us while we were practicing in the fencing hall and asked if I wanted to have a go with someone who actually knew how to wield a foil.

As we traded parries and ripostes, I found that John was one of the few men who could actually challenge me with a blade. He was quick, had excellent footwork, and never flinched. To top it all off, I found over drinks later that day that he had a wit as quick as his sword with intelligence to match. John, Charles, and I became inseparable during our remaining time at Cambridge and then for a short time after we graduated.

Unfortunately, I lost contact with him when I was called home to tend my father in his illness and subsequently had the responsibility of a great estate and a younger sister more than ten years my junior thrust upon me at the tender age of twenty-two. At the same time, John had been called home to Longbourn to help rebuild the estate after a fire had devastated a good portion of the fields and destroyed the homes of several of the tenants. We were both too busy to keep up with the other.

Charles kept contact with both of us, but spent more time at Pemberley with me, helping to look after Georgiana and run the estate while keeping me from drowning in my new role as Master of Pemberley. He said that John had his father to help, and I needed his friendship more. I was very grateful to him. His cheerful presence was often the only reason I made it through the days following my father's death.

I had not seen or heard directly from John in more than four years until earlier this summer. By some strange twist of fate for which I will forever be grateful, John had been on holiday at Ramsgate at the same time I had sent Georgiana with her new companion, Mrs. Younge, to that seaside area for a bit of relaxation from her studies. John had happened to overhear Georgiana being proposed to by Mr. Wickham--whom John remembered as being a profligate rake from our Cambridge days--and convinced to elope. Recognizing Georgiana's name, he immediately sent me an express informing me of the situation, and I arrived in time to save Georgiana from folly.

I thanked John profusely for his timely letter, we picked up our acquaintance where we left off four years earlier, and we had been in one another's company ever since. Charles joined our group shortly thereafter, and we had been a merry trio once again. When John had learned that Charles was looking to purchase an estate and become a landed gentleman--Charles's father had made his fortune in trade--he had recommended Netherfield. Charles had agreed, and now we all found ourselves traveling to Hertfordshire to take possession of the place and have a bit of fun.

As we entered the quaint town of Meryton, several men called out greetings to John, which he returned. Charles, the carriage, and I attracted the speculative stares of everyone we passed causing me to squirm uncomfortably in my saddle, a fact that did not escape John's notice. "Will, you'd think you'd be used to it by now," John chuckled. "You've been an object of interest your whole life."

"I don't have to like," I mumbled, as I stopped my squirming, sat up straight in my saddle, and put on my most imperturbable air. It usually served me well in deflecting unwanted attention.

"Oh, no," Charles said, chuckling as well. "Now he's gone and become the formidable Mr. Darcy." I had forgotten over the years that John and Charles could be a relentless tag-team against me, the oldest by a year and half, when we were all together.

John laughed some more, "For goodness sake, Will. Relax! The populace of Meryton is not going to eat you. However, if you put on that façade when you meet my family, my sisters will. Lizzy especially is unlikely to appreciate it. She can't stand false pride and will see through yours in a heart beat."

I had never met any of John's family, despite having heard numerous tales about the adventures of his three younger sisters, Jane, Elizabeth, and Lydia, while we were still at Cambridge. I had always particularly been interested in his stories about Elizabeth. According to John, she was always up a tree, wandering alone through the woods, or even swimming in a pond by herself when she was not to be found in her father's library devouring any book she could reach. She had always been, undeniably, John's favorite sister and her father's favorite daughter. I was looking forward to meeting her, as well as John's parents. His descriptions of his mother's nerves and his father's retreats to his study had always given us a laugh as well.

We came to a crossroads, and John took his leave to head in one direction to Longbourn while the rest of us were to continue the opposite way to Netherfield. "I'll see you all tomorrow night at the assembly," he said as he turned his horse.

I groaned aloud. "Do I really have to go? You know I can't stand such events."

"Yes!" John and Charles responded simultaneously. John called behind him as he rode off, "If you aren't there, and in good time, I shall ride to Netherfield and drag you out of the house myself!"

I grumbled under my breath, and Charles added, "Oh come on, Will. It'll be fun, and we shall get to meet John's family and the rest of the country." This did not have the effect Charles intended. John's family I did not mind meeting. The rest of the country was quite another matter.

I loathe balls and dancing and all the idle, insipid conversation that goes along with such events. A country dance at which I knew practically no one and where I could already hear ambitious mamas whispering about my net worth was my definition of torture.

We continued on to Netherfield, and I found it to be quite pleasant. The house was of good size, though not as large as Pemberley. The grounds were well kept and the interior was clean and inviting. The housekeeper and butler greeted us with kindness and gave us a quick tour of the house. Overall, I found it to be an adequate place for Charles to try his hand at managing an estate by himself without being overwhelmed.

The rest of the day proceeded predictably, with Charles and I going over the estate's documents and me helping him familiarize himself with those elements of its management that he would need to see to immediately. Dinner was predictable as well, with Charles' annoying sisters going into raptures about Netherfield and the countryside they had see from the carriage whilst being sure to inform me that it was nothing like as beautiful as Pemberley. Mr. Hurst drowned himself in his drink until he passed out on a chaise in the corner of the drawing room. At last, I made my way to my rooms and prepared for bed, looking forward to the tour of the park and surrounding environs tomorrow morning and dreading the supposed merriment that was to take place tomorrow evening.

The next evening found me standing outside the public assembly rooms in Meryton whilst Charles helped his sisters from the carriage, listening to the music and laughter emanating from the hall and feeling like anything but joining in. We were a bit late, due to Caroline taking a ridiculous amount of time to get ready. It was apparent that she did not want to be here anymore than I, just about the only thing we had in common. I have to say that the extra time for her toilette was of questionable usefulness given that she was attired in an orange silk and lace contraption with feathers sticking up from her head. I have never understood the ton's obsession with feather headdresses.

"Shall we be quite safe here, do you think, Mr. Darcy?" Caroline asked once she had alighted.

"I believe I was promised yesterday by John Bennet that the local populace would not eat us, Miss Bingley. I think we will make it through the evening relatively unscathed," I replied. While I did not want to be at this country assembly, it was because I was uncomfortable in any gathering of the sort, whether the height of the ton's entertainments or the lowliest backwater jubilee. Caroline on the other hand felt that Meryton was beneath her, and her snobbery only made me even more disinclined to pay attention to her.

I had always been polite to Caroline and Mrs. Hurst for Charles' sake, but preferred to keep away from them as much as possible. Caroline had not been subtle in her attentions to me, always hinting that I should make her the next Mistress of Pemberley, despite my never responding favorably to such suggestions. Charles had even told her point blank that I had no interest in her other than as my friend's sister, but she never ceased her attentions. If Charles hadn't needed his sister to run his household, I would have suggested he leave her in London. It would have made the entire stay in Hertfordshire more pleasant. But it was not to be, and I had to be civil for friendship's sake.

We entered the assembly hall and a hush fell across the guests as all eyes turned to our party. Lord, there is nothing I detest more than being an object of speculation amongst strangers. Charles smiled at everyone and was approached by a Sir William Lucas, who seemed to be the self-appointed emissary of the local gentry. Charles introduced us all, and slowly the chatter in the room started up again followed shortly by the music as the dance recommenced. I spent several minutes standing mutely behind my party feeling wholly uncomfortable until at last John appeared.

"I told you not to try that here, Darce," was his first comment, without so much as a "Good evening" to start off.

"Try what?"

"Invoking the famous Darcy Mask of Inscrutability. I told you I would unleash Lizzy on you if you did."

"I am not afraid of your sister, John. In any event, I have not invoked anything of the sort. You know I hate events such as this. You made me come. It is your own fault if you do not find my company pleasant."

"Oh, stop grumbling and come along to meet my sisters." John greeted the rest of our party, directed Caroline and the Hursts to the refreshments table, and collected Charles to meet his family as well. As we made our way across the room and past the dancers and various groups of spectators, amidst whispers of "Good friends of John Bennet" I could already hear the reports of "five thousand a year" in reference to Bingley and "ten thousand a year" in reference to myself. I detest being seen as nothing more than an annual income, and my mood only darkened further. As we neared a group of girls toward the rear of the room, John whispered, "Last chance, Will. Stop hiding behind that mask, or I'll correct everyone's assumption that you are worth ten thousand a year by informing them of your property in Scotland that adds an additional five thousand to your annual income."

"Oh, bugger off, Bennet," I whispered back at which John only laughed.

I will admit that my outlook improved just a little when we stopped in front of three young women who were holding a quiet conversation amongst themselves. There was an exceedingly beautiful blond girl with an angelic smile, a rather plain but amiable looking girl with mouse brown hair, and one other girl who was laughing at whatever the plain one had said. It was this third girl who really caught my attention.

She had dark, chestnut colored curls that bounced as she laughed and framed a pleasantly featured face. Her figure was light and pleasing, and she seemed to carry herself with a sense of decorum and well-bred manners. But it was her eyes, more than anything else, which caught and held my notice. Brightened by her laughter, her deep brown eyes were flecked with honey and gold and sparkled with wit, humor, and uncommon intelligence. I had never seen eyes like hers before.

"Charlotte," John addressed the plain girl. "Forgive the interruption, but might I have the honor of introducing you three to my good friends?" The girls turned toward us with more smiles and each offered curtseys as John introduced us. The plain one was Miss Charlotte Lucas, the eldest daughter of Sir William, and the blond was the eldest of John's younger sisters, Jane. I was utterly delighted to learn that the girl with the fine eyes was none other than John's sister, Elizabeth, the very mischief-maker about which I had heard so much.

John then informed us that his other sister, Lydia, was currently dancing and his mother was near the refreshments table with Lady Lucas. His father had remained at home, not being inclined to join in such events. John pointedly directed this particular comment to me. I replied with a raised eyebrow.

It was Elizabeth who spoke first. "It is delightful to meet you both at last. We have heard much of you from John for years, but had begun to despair of every actually meeting you."

"It is an honor, Miss Elizabeth," Charles responded. I looked at him and noticed that while he had spoken to Elizabeth, his gaze had never left Miss Bennet. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Charles never could resist a blond. "Miss Bennet," he continued. "If you are not otherwise engaged, would you do me the honor of dancing the next with me?"

Miss Bennet smiled her angelic smile and accepted his offer, and the two moved off to join the newly forming set. A young man came to claim Miss Lucas for the set as well, and John and I were left with Elizabeth. I knew I should probably ask her to dance, but I could not bring myself to do it. I really do not like to dance.

I turned back from watching Charles with Miss Bennet to find John watching me and fighting to hide his amusement. I then looked at Elizabeth who was looking back and forth between her brother and me trying to determine just why her brother was amused. At last, she asked, "Do you not dance, Mr. Darcy?"

"Not if I can help it," I replied. John's amusement spilled over into laughter, and I glared at him.

"Will is quite a good dancer," he told his sister. "But he hates the exercise unless he has known his partner for at least a good four years."

I noticed Elizabeth's eyes light up with her own amusement, and before I could stop myself, I blurted, "I find myself ill-qualified to recommend myself to strangers."

Elizabeth addressed her brother, "Shall we ask him why? Why a man of sense and education who has lived in the world should find himself ill-qualified to recommend himself to strangers?"

John's eyes gleamed at me, as if to say, I told you so, and he answered, "I can tell you without applying to him. It is because he will not give himself the trouble."

"I have not that talent, which you posses John, of conversing easily with those I have never met before."

Again, Elizabeth spoke to her brother, "Shall I give him the advice that Charlotte is forever giving me?" John nodded, and she turned to me with an arched eyebrow. I found myself holding my breath. "You see, Mr. Darcy, I am always being urged to practice the pianoforte by my friend as she delights in forcing me to play whenever her father gives a party at Lucas Lodge. My fingers do not move over the instrument with the same speed or fluidity, which I see so many women's do. However, I have always considered that to be my own fault, since, despite Charlotte's urging, I will not take the trouble of practicing."

I released my breath and found that, despite myself, I was amused by this strange girl with the bewitching eyes and impertinent comments. "No doubt you have employed your time much better," I told her, relaxing my demeanor regardless of any continued discomfort with my present location. "I am sure that no one admitted to the privilege of hearing you at your good friend's home could think anything wanting. We, neither of us, perform to strangers."

I was treated to musical laughter from Elizabeth, and I felt myself relax even more. Was it just me, or did this young woman have this effect on everyone? Bemused, I watched her laugh and realized this was the first time in quite a good while that I had enjoyed a conversation with a woman who was not related to me. Despite her teasing, Elizabeth was very pleasant and delivered her impertinent comments with such an air that rendered them endearing rather than insulting. However, she was not, as most women who were not related to me were, attempting to ingratiate herself with me. She was simply being herself and enjoying a lively conversation with her brother and me.

I tore my eyes from Elizabeth when I heard John clear his throat. He had one eyebrow arched in the same manner his sister had moments ago and appeared amused by my bemusement with his sister. I rolled my eyes at him then turned back to her. "Miss Elizabeth, would you do me the honor of dancing the next with me?"

She smiled and replied, "Of course, sir. I feel honored that I have been given such a privilege after so short an acquaintance with you." I smiled back at her. Her brother laughed, and I had the distinct impression that he was laughing at me, rather than at what his sister had said.

I stood by and watched as she and John chatted idly about various goings on in the neighborhood while he had been away until the music began for the next set. I led her to our places, bowed, and began dancing with her. As John had said, I merely dislike the occupation; I am not deficient in it. Elizabeth was quite good as well, and we moved fluidly down the dance. After a few minutes of silence, Elizabeth said, "I believe we must have some little conversation, Mr. Darcy. A very little will suffice and will be excellent practice for you."

I smiled at her, but the dance moved us apart. When we were rejoined she continued, "You might say something about the dance, or I might comment on the number of couples."

"I shall say whatever you wish me to, Miss Elizabeth," I replied.

She grinned. "Very well--That reply will do for now--Perhaps I may offer some new observation, by and by, but for now we may be silent."

We continued on for a bit, until I decided to take her advice and actually attempt to practice speaking with a person I had just met. "Do you talk by rule, then while you are dancing?"

"Sometimes. One must speak a little, you know. It would look odd to be entirely silent for half an hour together, and yet for the advantage of some, conversation ought to be so arranged as that they may have the trouble of saying as little as possible," was her response.

"Are you consulting your own feelings in the present case, or do you seek to gratify mine?"

"Both, I imagine." Raising one eyebrow again, she continued. "You have hardly spoken to anyone but my brother sine you arrived, leading me to believe we have a great similarity in the turn of our minds. We are each of an unsocial, taciturn disposition, unwilling to speak, unless we expect to say something that will amaze the whole room."

"This is no very striking resemblance of your own character, I am sure," I said. "How near it may be to mine, I cannot pretend to say--You think it is a faithful portrait undoubtedly." I did not know quite what to make of this girl. He eyes and her smile were captivating, and I had heard many an intriguing story from her brother. But, she persisted in teasing me and was unafraid to say anything that came to her mind. I was unused to being teased, particularly by a woman.

"I must not decide on my own performance," she said. We continued in silence for a bit until we came to the end of the row and were interrupted by Sir William Lucas as we waited for the dancing to recommence. With a bow of deepest--almost abject--courtesy, he complimented me on my dancing and my partner.

"I have been most highly gratified indeed, my dear sir. Such very superior dancing is not often seen. It is evident that you belong to the first circles. Allow me to say, however, that your fair partner does not disgrace you, and that I must hope to have this pleasure often repeated, while you are in the country." Sir William bowed again and moved off. I looked about us and realized that we were, in fact, being watched by everyone in the room--or at least those who were not already occupied watching Charles dance with Miss Lucas or John with Miss Bingley. Good God! I would have to be careful not to let Charles or myself show particular attention to any lady, or this community would have us married in a fortnight--however much one lady might have tempted me.

The dance began to move again, and I struggled for something to say. "Sir William's interruption has made me forget of what we were talking."

"I do not believe we were speaking at all. Sir William could not have interrupted any two people who had less to say for themselves. We have tried two or three subjects already without success, and what we are to talk of next I cannot imagine." I had the distinct impression that I was verbally dueling with this woman. And was being soundly thrashed.

In an attempt to find a topic about which she could not tease or outmaneuver me, I tried, "What think you of books?"

Her eyes sparkled mischievously, "Books--Oh! no.--I am sure we never read the same, or not with the same feelings."

I frowned slightly. I was usually not very good at conversation with strangers, especially women, and most particularly women I find attractive. Coherent and rational thought seemed to run screaming out my ear at such moments. Elizabeth and her impertinence had me even more tongue tied than usual. In a desperate verbal parry, I replied, "I am sorry you think so; but if that be the case, there can at least be no want of subject--We may compare our different opinions."

I watched her as the dance separated us again. For a moment, she appeared to be considering another teasing reply but then decided to take pity on me and offered one of her favorite authors for discussion. I was surprised and happy to find that I, too, greatly enjoyed the subject's work. We spent the remainder of the dance alternately comparing opinions and teasing each other about all manner of literary subjects. We did not always agree, but I discovered that her opinions, even when contrary to my own, were intelligent and well thought out. It was a pleasant change for me to have a woman challenge my opinions rather than defer to them.

When the music came to an end, I led Elizabeth over to where Bingley, Miss Bennet, Miss Lucas, and John were standing. John gave Elizabeth a teasing kiss on the cheek, "Survived a dance with Darce, did you Lizzy?"

"Of course, Johnny," she smilingly replied. "He was quite entertaining actually."

I returned her smile, "Glad I could be of service." Our little group continued our conversation until the next dance began and new partners claimed the girls. I watched a man I had not met lead Elizabeth away and was surprised to feel a twinge of jealousy. I quickly dismissed this notion, however. We had only just met, and she was John's sister, after all.

My attention was recalled to my companions when Charles said, "John, your sister is an angel!"

"Who, Jane? Yes, that's the customary reaction to meeting her. Lizzy on the other hand leaves the impression of being a polite devil. And then there's Lydia, who is just silly."

I could not disagree with his assessment. I had found the few minutes I had spend in Miss Bennet's company pleasant enough, and my observation of Miss Lydia as she danced was that she was far too exuberant and needed to be checked. And, Elizabeth most definitely had a devilish wit. However, I felt the need to caution my less reserved friend.

"No offence intended, John. I quite like your sisters," I began. "But, Charles, look around you. Every person in the room is watching us. I would suggest that you do not pay too much attention to any one young lady, Miss Bennet or otherwise, or you will find yourself the target of the local matchmaking mamas."

"No offence taken, Will. After all, every matchmaking mama in the area has been trying to get me married off for years, including my own. And it is only fair to warn you that my mother's goal in life is to get her three daughters married as quickly as possible. Not that Lizzy or Jane listen, but Mother can still be a trial."

"Oh, Will. You are always so worried about matchmaking mamas and fortune hunters. Can you not just enjoy yourself for once?" Charles asked.

"Charles, if you had spent the past five years having every single woman in London or whatever county you visit thrown in your way and then had their brothers or fiancés call you out for nothing more than a polite 'good evening' or a smile, you would understand."

"Careful," John said. "You are scowling again. I'll have to set Lizzy after you if don't stop."

I merely rolled my eyes at him and excused myself to ask Mrs. Hurst to dance. I figured I might as well get my obligatory dances with Charles' sisters out of the way. The rest of the evening passed as pleasantly as could be expected at such an event. I danced with Miss Bennet and found her very pleasant if rather quiet. Miss Lucas was a pleasant enough partner as well. I also danced with Miss Lydia and found her silly and annoying.

Charles asked Miss Bennet to dance again, but I resisted the urge to ask Elizabeth for another dance when I saw how much attention was paid to Charles' compliment to her sister. She and I only spoke a few minutes more the whole evening, but when we finally left and I had managed to tune out the complaints of Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, I found myself thinking about a pair of fine eyes and an impertinent manner.

Chapter Three

My stay in Hertfordshire was turning out to be quite pleasant. The next fortnight was spent in the company of Charles and John and various members of their families. I spent a good deal of time helping Charles become acquainted with the workings of Netherfield Park, and we were both pleased to find everything in good order as well as begin plans for improvements. Dealing with such estate matters had the double advantage of helping Charles and keeping Caroline away from me.

I spent the rest of my time out of doors as much as possible. Charles, John, Hurst, and I went shooting. John's father, Mr. Bennet, joined us once or twice, and I soon learned just where John and Elizabeth had acquired their quick minds--I'd earlier determined from my brief introduction to her at the assembly that it was not from Mrs. Bennet. I had already dueled with the son and daughter and did not escape our initial meeting without crossing wits with the father, as well.

We traded verbal parries for about five minutes on the subject of the Corsican, John all the while alternately laughing--at what I did not know--and encouraging his father to continue, until Mr. Bennet said, "Yes, well. You'll do," then turned his full attention to his rifle and headed out across the field.

Startled by being summarily dismissed in such a manner, I turned to John, who was nearly doubled over in a fit of most unseemly laughter. Honestly, the man was giggling like schoolgirl! When he had regained a smidgen of his composure, he informed me, "Lizzy told him about your meeting--" more giggles "--and of course, he's heard about you from me as well." He continued, unsuccessfully, to reign in his amusement. "He could not wait to meet you. He doesn't even like shooting. He only came because he wanted to see if you lived up to the tales he's heard."

I was not sure what to make of this information. Was it a compliment that Mr. Bennet had ventured from his library, which I understood he left but rarely, to meet me because his son and daughter had found trading wits with me amusing? I supposed his last comment meant that I had lived up to whatever he had been told about me. I had to admit I had enjoyed our sparring match, too, and began to think that dinners at the Bennet home must be quite lively affairs with Mr. Bennet, John, and Elizabeth all at the same table.

I had the opportunity to witness such an event firsthand a few days later. Bingley and I had ridden over to Longbourn to go riding with John and were invited to stay for dinner afterward. Charles happily accepted for the both of us, all the while staring dreamily at Miss Bennet. Elizabeth was not in the house, and I later learned that she had gone for a solitary walk--an activity she enjoyed regularly and for which I could not blame her as Mrs. Bennet began blathering on about all manner of subjects, Miss Lydia adding equally banal commentary on anything to do with the regiment of militia that had just arrived in the area. Happily they required very little in the way of response. Charles was in close conversation with Miss Bennet, oblivious to the rest of the room, and John was simply watching me watch his mother ramble on, an eyebrow arched in amusement.

I had had my fill after a very few minutes in that company. I wondered how a man as intelligent and discerning as Mr. Bennet with equally witty children in John and Elizabeth and the very pleasant Jane could have such a wife and could allow his youngest child to go on as she did. The three elder children seemed to have been given guidance and a good education. What had happened with the youngest? I knew that she was just fifteen and a good five years younger than her next eldest sibling, Elizabeth. I could find no other excuse than that she was the baby and overly indulged. I decided I would avoid her, whenever possible, in much the same way I avoided Miss Bingley.

After nearly fifteen minutes of inane chatter, John took pity on me. "Will, what do you say to some fencing practice out in the yard? It has been quite a good while since I crossed blades with a man that can keep up with me as well as you used to at university. After watching you with Billings the other morning, it does not appear as though you have lost any of your skill in the past four years."

"An excellent suggestion, John. It will be a nice change actually to be challenged with a blade as you used to at Cambridge." Physical exertion seemed like just the thing to regain the wits that Mrs. Bennet's and Miss Lydia's conversation had scattered. "Charles, will you join us?"

I saw the struggle it was for Charles to tear his eyes away from Miss Bennet long enough to answer. "Thank you, Will, but no. You know I have not anything like your skill with a foil. I would much rather remain here with the ladies."

Miss Bennet smiled at his remark, though her smile seemed to be generally serene and directed at the whole room. It was becoming quite obvious that Charles was enchanted, but I wondered if Miss Bennet's heart was likely to be easily touched. I had often seen Charles in love before. I did not want his heart to be broken yet again, this time by the sister of a dear friend. I decided to watch them closely from now on.

John and I gathered two foils from a storeroom and proceeded to an open area of Longbourn's well-tended garden. I had found the country estate a bit on the small side, but very pleasant and well kept. It had recovered well from the fire four years ago and would be a good estate for John to inherit on his father's death, with a number of tenant farmers and several other livings.

"En guarde," called John, and our fencing practice began. John was just as challenging an opponent as I remembered. We had begun, merely for our own amusement, with our blades in our left hands. Aside from his general prowess, John was one of the few men I knew who had taken the time to train with both hands, in the event, however unlikely, that his dominant hand were disabled. I parried, he offered a riposte, we stepped and shuffled, thrust and blocked. It took quite a while for me to find a chink in his defenses and score a hit.

"Ah!" he cried. "Well done, Will. That was an excellent warm-up."

Grinning, I offered, "Shall we move on to the main event?"

John returned my grin; we switched our blades to our right hands and were off again. This time, our battle was quicker, smoother, more decisive. We ranged all over the lawn behind the house. At one point, John's cheeky grin reappeared, and he jumped on the low garden wall daring me to join him. Never one to back down from a challenge, I leapt up, and we continued our battle all the while balancing on the uneven stonework.

John and I were infinitely well matched. I do not know how long the battle raged, but at last we each scored a hit simultaneously. Trading grins and breathing hard, we saluted one another and dismounted the wall.

I spun around at the sound of light applause. "Thank you, gentlemen. That was quite entertaining." There stood Elizabeth, looking just as fetching in her plain spencer coat as she had in her ball gown the last time I had seen her. Her eyes sparkled with amusement and her cheeks had a rosy flush from the exertion of her walk. I had nearly regained my breath before she had made her presence known. I now lost it just as quickly.

Elizabeth was smiling her arch smile, one eyebrow raised, and I felt myself blushing. Me! Blushing! I make it a point never to color, particularly in front of a woman--an extremely attractive woman, at that. But I was standing there in my shirtsleeves, having discarded my coat before the duel, after being caught dueling atop a wall like a twelve year old boy with Elizabeth's brother. And I could not stop staring at her, either.

John was apparently unconcerned at the less than proper position in which his sister had found us. He laughed and called out, "Lizzy!" as he moved to kiss her cheek. "Had a pleasant walk, did you?"

"Yes, Johnny, quite pleasant," she said as she greeted her brother in return. "Though not nearly as pleasant as your afternoon excursion appears to have been." She and John laughed, and I joined in for lack of anything better to do. I felt my embarrassment melt away with her laughter.

"It is a pleasure to see you again, Miss Elizabeth." I bowed to her as formally as I could in my less than formal state of dress. She curtsied in return, and John explained that Charles and I had been invited to dinner.

"I see," was her response. "So, this is your way of passing the time whilst avoiding Mama?"

"Of course," John said.

"Mr. Bingley, did not join you?"

"If you had ever seen Charles with a foil, you would understand why," John told her. "Besides, I believe he found Jane a much more pleasant distraction than watching Darce and I spar." Brother and sister shared a knowing look before John continued, "Fancy a fencing lesson, Lizzy?"

I was shocked at his suggestion. That he would encourage his sister to participate in what was solely a gentleman's pursuit was quite improper, though I do not suppose I should have been surprised as the suggestion had come from eternally mischievous John Bennet. Elizabeth glanced from her brother to me, "No, thank you. I believe I shall return indoors. I'm rather tired after my long walk."

She curtsied to me again and started to turn toward the house, but John stopped her. "Oh, come on. Have a bit of fun, Lizzy." He then turned to me. "You know, Will, growing up, Lizzy here was forever--"

"Watching Johnny learn to fence," Elizabeth interjected. John gave her an odd look and she continued, speaking quickly, "He has always been so good at it, that it's quite something to watch. You obviously have equal skill, Mr. Darcy."

"Thank you," I replied, looking from her to John and back again. What had John been about to say? "I'm glad I could offer you a source of entertainment once again."

"I was vastly entertained, I assure you." She smiled, shot what appeared to be a warning look at a rather confused John, and started toward the house. John watched Elizabeth for a moment, then shrugged and followed her. I followed as well.

We were chatting amiably as we crossed the lawn and passed under a large oak tree when my head was suddenly accosted from above by what appeared to be a furry gray mass with very sharp claws. "What the devil?!" I cried.

"Mr. Collins!" I heard Elizabeth gasp as I struggled to disentangle myself from the hissing fur ball. "Don't just stand there, John. Help him!"

Laughing, John reached up, gave a good yank, and came away with not only the fur ball, but also part of my sleeve and, I was sure, a large chunk of my hair. Whatever it was continued to struggle in John's arms until he set it down and it darted off.

"What, in God's name, was that?" I nearly shouted, attempting to restore some semblance of order to my hair and inspecting the damage to my shirt.

John only continued to laugh, but Elizabeth rushed to my side, "Are you all right, Mr. Darcy? I'm so sorry! Really, sir, are you injured?"

Hearing the note of true concern and feeling the warmth of her hand on my arm, I straightened and replied, "Only my pride." Elizabeth relaxed and smiled, unfortunately removing her hand as well. "What," I asked again, "was that?"

"That was Mr. Collins," John said as his laughter continued unabated. "Oh, my goodness, Will. You should have seen your face! That was the funniest thing I have seen in quite some time!"

"Really, John. Get hold of yourself," Elizabeth admonished.

"What is a Mr. Collins?" I wanted to know.

"Mr. Collins is my cat, Mr. Darcy." Elizabeth, now that she had assured herself that I was uninjured, was trying to stifle her own amusement. "I'm really very sorry. He's usually much better behaved." A small smile curved her lips, and I found myself returning it with a smile of my own.

"No, he is not, Lizzy! You know he's always been completely psychotic." John had managed to stop laughing, but he was still grinning broadly.

My shock abated, and my smile widened. "Why, might I inquire, do you have a cat named Mr. Collins?" Elizabeth's cheeks were overspread with the most charming blush, and John burst into a new fit of his unseemly giggles.

It was John who explained, "When Lizzy was about twelve, my father's cousin, Mr. Collins, who would have inherited Longbourn if I had not been born a male, came to visit us after his father's death. Collins is a silly, insipid fool who went about trying to flatter my mother and sisters at every possible turn. Shortly after he left, Lizzy found a kitten on a walk and brought it home. The way that the kitten followed Lizzy around reminded her of the way that Mr. Collins had followed my mother around, offering compliments on every aspect of Longbourn he could. So, the cat has been known as Mr. Collins ever since. And since it is a few apples short of a bushel, it quite lived up to its name."

By now, I was chuckling too, not only at the story but also at Elizabeth's continued embarrassment. "I was twelve!" she defended herself.

John continued, "It had the added bonus of offending the human Mr. Collins so much on his next visit that he has not bothered us again."

Now Elizabeth was smiling as well. "Yes, Papa thanked me profusely once he was gone."

I continued to be amused as I ran my hands through my hair in an attempt to subdue it and inspected a small scratch on my shoulder where Mr. Collins' claws had ripped my shirt. "Are you sure you are all right, Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked, quietly.

"I'm perfectly well, Miss Elizabeth. I thank you for your concern, but I am no worse off but for being a bit ruffled." She really was adorable when embarrassed.

At last, John and I reclaimed our coats from where we had left them in preparation for our fencing match and entered the house.

I had been right in supposing that a dinner in the Bennet household was a rather boisterous affair. At one end of the table sat Mrs. Bennet, Charles, Miss Bennet and Miss Lydia. Mrs. Bennet and Miss Lydia dominated most of the conversation, telling Charles all about the militia, who would be quartered in Meryton throughout the winter, and any other subject they could think of--much of which included promoting Miss Bennet as the most beautiful girl in the country and the most agreeable. Miss Bennet deflected many of her mother's improper--and loud--comments with the ease of long practice, and Charles absorbed the rest with his customary good humor. I could not fault Miss Bennet's manners, but I did not approve of Mrs. Bennet or Miss Lydia and did my best to ignore them. Which turned out to be easier than I would have thought.

At the other end of the table, Mr. Bennet, John, Elizabeth, and I engaged in political debates, literary discussions, and witty banter of all sorts. My opinion of Mr. Bennet as an intelligent, discerning gentlemen was reinforced. My respect for him also increased in observing that he treated Elizabeth as an absolute equal in every respect and so did John.

Outside of my own parents' relationship before my mother's death and that of my aunt and uncle, the Earl of Matlock, I had never been in a company of people in which a female, let alone one that was just twenty years old, was treated with such equality and allowed to speak with such freedom on any topic that came up. The love for Elizabeth that flowed from Mr. Bennet and John as well as their absolute respect for her intelligence and her opinion was palpable. It was astonishing and endearing at once.

My respect for Elizabeth was further bolstered by the fact that she absolutely deserved such consideration. I watched her join in the various debates on a wide variety of subjects with no little knowledge and much wit. I even found that she and her father shared the same humor and occasionally sardonic turn of mind. It occurred to me that Elizabeth's liveliness and charm could go a long way toward bringing Georgiana out of the shell she had constructed around her since the summer.

Without consciously choosing to do so, I remained close to Elizabeth for the remainder of the evening, and we shared several more lively and entertaining discussions. When I retired to my bed that night, I could not stop thinking of her. I was enchanted enough to realize that if I were not careful, I could be very much in love with Elizabeth in a very short time. However much this idea appealed to me, I had to guard my heart more diligently. I could not marry her.

My family expected me to marry an heiress--I would not marry my cousin, Anne, no matter how much my Aunt Catherine might desire it. I had been raised all my life to seek an agreeable partner in marriage but also one who would bring wealth, connections, and status to the match as well. Elizabeth, for all her plethora of personal charms and the fact that she was the sister of my good friend, was poor. Longbourn provided the Bennets a decent lifestyle, but the girls had almost nothing in the way of dowries and their mother came from a family of tradesmen and solicitors. My family would not be happy with such a match. I had to be careful. Elizabeth and I could be friends and nothing more.

The following week found most of Meryton society, including the Bennets--sans Mr. Bennet who was enjoying his solitude that evening--and my own party, assembled at Lucas Lodge for an evening of merriment. It was the first time I had been in company with any of the Bennets other than John since the dinner a week before. Despite my resolve to pay little attention to her, my eyes immediately found Elizabeth and were riveted by her sparkle. She smiled at me from across the room, and I began to have trouble remembering just why I could not allow myself to court her.

Charles seemed to have no such concerns. After greeting Sir William and Lady Lucas, he immediately sought out Miss Bennet and engaged her in private conversation. I watched her again as she conversed with my friend. Miss Bennet's looks and entire demeanor were cheerful and pleasant, but she seemed to accept Charles' attentions with the same serenity that she did anyone else's. I thought that I might speak with John about it. After all, he was as familiar with Charles' propensity to fall in and out of love as I.

My attention was soon drawn to Elizabeth again by her laughter. She was speaking with Charlotte Lucas with her usual playfulness of manner. I decided that I would not speak with her anymore than necessary that evening, but I would not deprive myself of her company completely. To that end, I began to attend her conversations with others and spent a good portion of the evening amused by her conversation without being required to respond.

I should have known that Elizabeth would see through my design. She unexpectedly turned from her friend to me and asked, "Do you not think, Mr. Darcy, that I expressed myself uncommonly well just now, when I was teasing Colonel Forster to give us a ball in Meryton?"

I smiled. How was one supposed to be indifferent to this girl? "With great energy--but it is a subject which always makes a lady energetic."

"You are severe on us."

"It will be her turn soon to be teased," supplied Miss Lucas. "I am going to open the instrument, Eliza, and you know what follows."

"You are a very strange creature by way of a friend!--always wanting me to play and sing before anybody and everybody! If my vanity had taken a musical turn, you would have been invaluable, but as it is, I would really rather not sit down before those who must be in the habit of hearing the very best performers."

Miss Lucas continued to pester her. When it appeared that she would not be persuaded, I added, "Please do play, Miss Elizabeth. I would very much like to hear you, and please remember you are not performing to strangers."

Elizabeth released a dramatic sigh and stated, "Very well; if it must be so, it must," before taking her place at the pianoforte. She both played and sang very well, though by no means perfectly. However, there was such expression in her song as to render it enthralling. I had rarely heard anything that gave me more pleasure.

When she had finished, she started to rise from the instrument, but Miss Lydia appeared and begged her, most exuberantly, to play a Scotch or Irish air so that she and some of the young officers could dance. "Very well, I will play, Lydia. But please lower your voice. Remember you are not the only person here." I was glad I was not the only one who had been discomfited by Miss Lydia's wild behavior. I stood by in silent indignation as Miss Lydia ignored her sister, gathered a few of the officers and some of the younger Lucases, and began a country romp of a dance.

Sometime later, Elizabeth relinquished her seat to Miss Maria Lucas who played more airs so that the dancing could continue. I watched as Charles and Miss Bennet joined in. Sir William then approached me and began, "What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished societies."

"Certainly, sir," I replied. "And it has the advantage also of being in vogue amongst the less polished societies of the world. Every savage can dance." I heard Elizabeth, who was standing nearby, attempt to conceal her amusement.

On seeing Charles go down the dance, Sir William continued, "Your friend performs delightfully, and I doubt not that you are an adept at the science yourself, Mr. Darcy."

"You saw me dance at Meryton, I believe, sir."

"Yes, indeed, and received no inconsiderable pleasure from the sight. Do you often dance at St. James's?"

"Never, sir."

"Do you not think it a proper compliment to the place?"

Bordering on exasperation, I said, "It is a compliment which I never pay to any place if I can avoid it." I knew that Elizabeth had been listening this whole time, and she chose that moment to make herself known to Sir William, her eyes gleaming.

"My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing?" Sir William wanted to know. "Mr. Darcy, you must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner. You cannot refuse to dance, I am sure, when so much beauty is before you."

He took her hand and would have given it to me--a circumstance to which I was not at all averse--when she instantly drew back, and said with some amusement to Sir William, "Indeed, sir, I have not the least intention of dancing. I entreat you not to suppose that I moved this way in order to beg for a partner."

I immediately asked her if she would, in fact, do me the honor of dancing with me, but she declined. I had never in my life had a woman refuse to dance with me! Had it been any other young woman, I might have been affronted. However, it was Elizabeth, and I was only more enchanted, even more so when Sir William entreated, "You excel so much in the dance, Miss Eliza, that it is cruel to deny me the happiness of seeing you; and though this gentlemen dislikes the amusement in general, he can have no objection, I am sure, to oblige us for one half hour."

"Mr. Darcy is all politeness," said Elizabeth, smiling.

"He is indeed--but considering the inducement, my dear Miss Eliza, we cannot wonder at his complaisance; for who would object to such a partner?" Who indeed? I wondered. Elizabeth just looked at me archly before continuing on her way, taking pity on me and pulling Sir William along with her.

Out of the frying pan and into the fire pit, as they say. Miss Bingley then approached me. "I can guess the subject of your reverie."

"I should imagine not."

"You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass many evenings in this manner--in such society; and indeed I am quite of your opinion. I was never more annoyed! The insipidity and yet the noise; the nothingness and yet the self-importance of all these people! What would I give to hear your strictures on them!"

There may have been a time at which I would have joined in her censure. And while I could not help but agree with her where certain members of the society were concerned, I had also seen these people through John and Elizabeth's eyes. They were simple, but they meant well. So, to forestall any further comments of the sort by Caroline, I replied, "Your conjecture is totally wrong, I assure you. My mind was more agreeably engaged. I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow."

She asked, as I had known she would, "Dare I ask whose the eyes that inspired these reflections?"

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet." I had the pleasure of seeing her shock, which soon melted into abject displeasure.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet! I am all astonishment."

"Why should you be? Miss Elizabeth is a charming young lady and the sister of my good friend, John Bennet." Shock rekindled in her eyes. "If you will excuse me?"

I walked away and joined a group of soldiers with which John was conversing. The remainder of the evening passed pleasantly enough.

However, that night, Elizabeth began to invade my dreams. Now, not only could I not stop thinking of her fine eyes and playful manner when I was awake, but she was also there when I slept. I wondered again why the sister of my friend should be off limits.

Chapter Four

Posted on: 2009-02-03

My time in Hertfordshire continued in much the same manner, with gatherings and dinners where I continued to spar with Elizabeth, John, and Mr. Bennet while trying to avoid the rest of society. It seemed that most of the neighborhood was not particularly fond of me, though that bothered me little. The Bennets seemed to like me well enough, and that was all that mattered.

One evening in early November, Charles and I returned to Netherfield after dinning with the officers to find that Miss Bingley had invited Miss Bennet to dine with her. Apparently, Miss Bennet had been sent to Netherfield on horseback despite the poor weather and had been caught in the rain and soaked. She took ill at some point during dinner, and Miss Bingley had put her to bed in a guest room.

Charles was beside himself that Miss Bennet was ill while at the same time being pleased that she was under his roof. He called for the local doctor, a Mr. Jones, to tend to her. She was determined to have a cold, and Mr. Jones recommended she not be moved until she was recovered. Charles was all too happy to insist she remain at Netherfield until she was entirely well. Miss Bennet wrote a quick note to her family explaining the situation and it was sent off with the morning post.

While the previous day had been miserable and soggy, this day dawned bright and clear. I decided to take a morning stroll around the grounds. I was startled when I rounded a corner and nearly ran into Elizabeth. "Miss Elizabeth!"

Elizabeth looked just as startled at my sudden appearance as I had been at hers. "Mr. Darcy!" I looked around, but found no companion with her. She had removed her bonnet and her curls were sweetly disheveled. Her cheeks were flushed with exercise and her eyes were bright. I realized I was staring at her yet again, when she looked down and stuttered, "I--I am come to inquire after my sister."

I could not help myself. "On foot and entirely alone?"

Her eyes flashed as she looked up indignantly. It occurred to me that her eyes would be irresistible if I were ever to see her truly angry. "As you see, Mr. Darcy."

"Forgive me, Miss Elizabeth. I only meant--well, where is John?"

"John rode out with my father this morning to attend to estate business. He is to come collect me later this afternoon. Would you be so kind, sir, as to take me to my sister?"

I managed to recollect my manners and led her to the house. We made our way to the breakfast parlor, where the rest of the household was assembled. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst greeted Elizabeth with surprised politeness but no real warmth. Their eyes raked over her as they took in her disheveled appearance. Charles, however, greeted her with good humor and immediately summoned a servant to take her to Miss Bennet.

The moment she was out of earshot, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst began disparaging her. "Well, I suppose we must allow her to be an excellent walker, but really, she looked almost wild when she entered the room just now."

"She did indeed, Louisa. I could hardly keep my countenance. Very nonsensical to come at all. Why must she be scampering about the country because her sister has a cold? Her hair so untidy, so blowsy!"

"Yes, and her petticoat; I hope you saw her petticoat, six inches deep in mud, I am absolutely certain."

I had retreated to the window with a cup of coffee. I did not like to hear Elizabeth disparaged, but I knew that Miss Bingley was already aware of my admiration for her. If I showed too much preference, she would be relentless in tormenting Elizabeth.

"This was all lost upon me," Charles interjected. "I thought Miss Elizabeth looked remarkably well when she came into the room this morning. Her dirty petticoat quite escaped my notice."

"You observed it, Mr. Darcy, I am sure," twittered Miss Bingley. "I am inclined to think that you would not wish to see your sister make such an exhibition."

"Certainly not," was the only reply I felt I could make.

"To walk three miles, or four miles, or five miles, or whatever it is, above her ankles in dirt, and alone, quite alone! What could she mean by it? It seems to me to show an abominable sort of conceited independence."

I silently thanked Charles when he said, "It shows an affection for her sister that is very pleasing."

Miss Bingley ignored him. "I am afraid, Mr. Darcy, that this adventure has rather affected your admiration of her fine eyes."

I knew I should not, but I could not help myself as I replied, "Not at all. They were brightened by the exercise."

As I had known it would, this remark shocked Miss Bingley into silence. Mrs. Hurst recovered more quickly. "I have an excessive regard for Jane Bennet, she is really a very sweet girl, and I wish with all my heart she were well settled. But with such a father and mother, and such low connections, I am afraid there is no chance of it."

Miss Bingley added, "Yes, their uncle is an attorney in Meryton and they have another in trade who lives somewhere near Cheapside."

Charles was as indignant as he could ever be. "If they had uncles enough to fill all Cheapside, it would not make them one jot less agreeable."

I knew that Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst would not stop until they felt they had made their point so I said, "But it must very materially lessen their chance of marrying men of any consideration in the world." Charles said nothing, but his sisters heartily agreed. At last they remembered that their dear friend was ill above stairs and repaired to her room to check on her--I silently prayed they would not be too rude to Elizabeth.

Once they had gone, Charles asked, "How can you agree with Caroline and Louisa, Will? John Bennet is a good friend, his father an excellent man, and his sisters delightful."

"Charles, I have nothing against the Bennets. You know that. However, your sisters would not have been quiet until one of us agreed with them. Besides, what I said is essentially true. However pleasant Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth may be and however much I like John and Mr. Bennet, their connections are not of the first order and the girls have no dowries. It is unfortunate, but there it is." By the end of this speech, I was not entirely sure whether I was trying to convince Charles or myself.

Later that day, John came in the Bennet's carriage to collect Elizabeth as planned. However, Miss Bennet expressed some trepidation at their leaving and Charles invited Elizabeth and John to stay until Miss Bennet had recovered. John declined, saying estate business called him home, but Elizabeth accepted. I did not see Elizabeth again until after supper that evening when she joined the rest of our party in the drawing room. We were all playing at loo and invited her to join us. She declined and declared that she would rather read.

Mr. Hurst, not yet fully in his cups, offered a rare comment, "Do you prefer reading to cards? That is rather singular."

Miss Bingley could not pass up an opportunity to disparage Elizabeth--I knew I should have kept my mouth shut earlier. "Miss Eliza Bennet despises cards. She is a great reader and has no pleasure in anything else."

"I deserve neither such praise nor such censure," Elizabeth responded. She caught my eye, and I could see she was more amused than affronted. "I am not a great reader, and I have pleasure in many things."

"In nursing your sister I am sure you have pleasure," Charles said. "I hope it will soon be increased by seeing her quite well."

Elizabeth thanked him and then walked toward a table where a few books were stacked. Charles offered to fetch her others; any and all that is library afforded. "I wish my collection were larger for your benefit and my own credit; but I am an idle fellow, and though I have not many, I have more than I ever look into."

"Thank you, Mr. Bingley, but I am sure these will do just fine." I tried to see which book she had chosen as she settled on a settee, but I could not make it out from my place at the card table. Again, I was recalled to my purpose of not paying Elizabeth too much attention in the presence of Miss Bingley when she called my attention back to her. "What a delightful library you have at Pemberley, Mr. Darcy!"

"It ought to be good," I replied. "It has been the work of many generations."

"And then you have added so much to it yourself, you are always buying books."

I refrained from rolling my eyes, particularly as Miss Bingley never looked into her brother's meager collection any more than Charles did. "I cannot comprehend the neglect of a family library in such days as these," was all I said.

"Neglect!" continued Miss Bingley's fawning over me. "I am sure you neglect nothing that can add to the beauties of that noble place. Charles, when you build your house, I wish it may be half as delightful as Pemberley."

"I wish it may," Charles said.

"But I would really advise you to make your purchase in that neighborhood, and take Pemberley for a kind of model. There is not a finer county in England than Derbyshire." I reflected that this must have been at least the thirtieth time I had heard her make such a statement.

"With all my heart; I would buy Pemberley itself, if Will would sell it."

"I am talking of possibilities, Charles."

"Upon my word, Caroline, I should think it more possible to get Pemberley by purchase than by imitation." Elizabeth had apparently tired of her book and drew near the table. She stationed herself opposite me to observe our play, and I caught a glimpse of the title of the book in her hand. It was a dry history that I had abandoned myself earlier that day, and I wondered not at her lack of interest in it.

Again, Miss Bingley called my attention away. "Is Miss Darcy much grown since the spring? Will she be as tall as I am?"

I glanced at Elizabeth again to find her looking at Miss Bingley with thinly veiled diversion. "I think she will. She is now about Miss Elizabeth Bennet's height, or rather taller." Elizabeth's gaze shifted to me, and a look of shared mirth passed between us.

"How I long to see her again! I never met with anybody who delighted me so much. Such a countenance, such manners! And, so extremely accomplished for her age! Her performance on the pianoforte is exquisite."

Here, Charles offered, "It is amazing to me how young ladies can have patience to be so very accomplished as they all are."

"All young ladies accomplished! My dear Charles, what do you mean?"

"Yes, all of them I think. They all paint tables, cover screens, and net purses. I scarcely know any one who cannot do all this, and I am sure I never heard a young lady spoken of for the first time without being informed that she was very accomplished."

"Your list of the common extent of the accomplishments," I said, "has too much truth. The word is applied to many a woman who deserves it no otherwise than by netting a purse or covering a screen. But I am very far from agreeing with you in your estimation of ladies in general. I cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen, in the whole range of my acquaintance, that are really accomplished."

"Nor I, I am sure," agreed Miss Bingley.

"Then," observed Elizabeth, her bright eyes on me, "you must comprehend a great deal in your idea of an accomplished woman."

I smiled slightly "Yes, I do comprehend a great deal in it."

Miss Bingley carried on as though she were my faithful assistant, "Oh! Certainly. No one can be really esteemed accomplished who does not greatly surpass what is usually met with. A woman must have a thorough knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages to deserve the word. And besides all this, she must possess a certain something in her air and manner of walking, the tone of her voice, her address and expressions, or the word will be but half deserved."

It was a great struggle not to roll my eyes as I met Elizabeth's gaze whilst listening to this speech. Elizabeth seemed to be undergoing an equal struggle. When Miss Bingley had finished, I looked straight at Elizabeth and added, "To all this she must yet add something more substantial, in the improvement of her mind by extensive reading."

I am not sure what exactly made me say that. I had been trying, all evening and quite unsuccessfully, not to pay Elizabeth any pointed attention. I seemed incapable of it. Elizabeth's cheeks colored slightly as she looked down at the book still in her hands. "I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any."

I was sure Elizabeth had understood my compliment when she looked up at me again, her eyes sparkling and embarrassed. I said, "Are you so severe upon your own sex as to doubt the possibility of all this?"

"I never saw such a woman," was her response. "I never saw such capacity, and taste, and application, and elegance, as you describe, united."

I held her gaze and was about to reply, when Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst beat me to it. They both cried out against the injustice of her implied doubt and began protesting that they knew many women who answered this description. Elizabeth turned away, biting her bottom lip to keep from laughing aloud, at this complete contradiction of Miss Bingley's previous statements. I, too, was hard pressed to stifle my laughter. I had never enjoyed a conversation with Miss Bingley so much as I did when Elizabeth was there to share the absurdity of it. Mr. Hurst then called our attention back to the game and Elizabeth left soon afterwards to see to her sister.

As soon as she was gone, Miss Bingley said, "Eliza Bennet is one of those young ladies who seek to recommend themselves to the other sex by undervaluing their own; and with many men, I dare say, it succeeds. But, in my opinion, it is a paltry device, a very mean art."

My patience with Miss Bingley's disparagement of Elizabeth was at an end for the evening. "Undoubtedly," I replied," there is a meanness in all the arts, which ladies sometimes condescend to employ for captivation. Whatever bears affinity to cunning is despicable."

This had the desired effect, and the rest of the card game continued in silence. Elizabeth only returned that evening to say that her sister was worse and that she could not leave her again. Charles was of a mind to call for Mr. Jones, and Elizabeth was persuaded that this might be done if Miss Bennet had not improved by morning. She left again to go above stairs.

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst declared themselves miserable for nearly two minutes before playing duets at the pianoforte in good spirits for the rest of the evening. Charles, however, was genuinely uncomfortable and repeatedly instructed the housekeeper to see to any possible attention that could make Miss Bennet more comfortable.

"Do not worry yourself too much Charles. It is unfortunate, but Miss Bennet only has a cold. She will be well again in a very few days time." I tried to offer him some measure of comfort, but it appeared to help very little. I was more concerned than I had let on, too. Elizabeth had looked quite disconcerted when she had reported the decline of her sister's state. There was nothing I could do to help her either. I prayed that Miss Bennet's fever would break and that the sparkle would reappear in Elizabeth's eyes.

I found it rather difficult to sleep that night, knowing Elizabeth was just a few doors down the hallway. When I finally did sleep, I dreamed of her again.

The next morning, we received favorable reports of Miss Bennet's health. It seemed her fever had broken during the night, and she was feeling a little better. John appeared later that morning to check on her. He and Elizabeth joined the rest of us in the breakfast room after Mr. Jones had seen to Miss Bennet.

"John," Charles said. "I hope you have not found Miss Bennet worse than you expected."

"No, Charles. I have not. However, Mr. Jones suggests that she not be moved yet, and I must tell you that the quiet here at Netherfield will help her recover far more quickly than if she were at Longbourn. May we trespass upon your hospitality a bit longer?"

"Of course!" cried Charles. "I will not hear of her removal until her she is completely well. Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth are welcome to stay as long as necessary."

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst exchanged a look of displeasure at this statement. They clearly wanted the place to themselves again. I, on the other hand, could only think that this would mean spending yet more time under the same roof with Miss Elizabeth. I could not decide whether this was good or bad. I wanted to spend as much time with her as I could, but I couldn't allow myself to do that.

Elizabeth looked form Charles' sisters to Charles to me and seemed uncomfortable. I got the distinct impression that she would rather go home but would stay for her sister. Her obvious love and devotion to Miss Bennet was endearing. I wondered what it would be like to be on the receiving end of such love. Wonderful, I should think.

John stayed on for a while and conversation turned to Charles' impression of Netherfield. "I am quite pleased with it. I think I should be happy to stay in Hertfordshire for quite some time."

"Then, do you intend to extend your short lease?" John asked. "You will not quit the place in a hurry?"

"You know me well enough, John, to know that whatever I do is done in a hurry," replied Charles. "Therefore if I should resolve to quit Netherfield, I should probably be off in five minutes. At present, however, I consider myself as quite fixed here."

"That is exactly what I should have supposed of you," said Elizabeth.

"You begin to comprehend me, do you?" cried he, turning toward her.

"Oh, yes! I understand you perfectly."

Charles laughed. "I wish I might take this for a compliment; but to be so easily seen through I am afraid is pitiful."

"That is as it happens. It does not necessarily follow that a deep, intricate character is more or less estimable than such a one as yours," was her response.

"I did not know before," continued Charles, "that you were a studier of character. It must be an amusing study."

Elizabeth cocked her head and arched an eyebrow. "Yes, but intricate characters are the most amusing. They have that advantage at least." She glanced in my direction with this statement, and I felt my pulse leap in the most absurd manner. The woman glanced at me, and my heart raced! I was truly in danger.

"The country," I said to her, "can in general supply but few subjects for such a study. In a country neighborhood you move in a very confined unvarying society."

"But people themselves alter so much that there is something new to be observed in them forever."

"That is true, I suppose."

"Besides," John said. "The country is much quieter. A vast deal more pleasant than all that noise in town, don't you think?"

Charles stated, "When I am in the country, I never wish to leave it; and when I am in town it is pretty much the same. They have each their advantages, and I can be equally happy in either."

Here the conversation turned, and Elizabeth asked John if Charlotte Lucas had visited Longbourn while she was away.

"Yes, she called yesterday with her father, Sir William. But, I did not see her. I was busy with Papa, and she did not stay for dinner."

"She seems a very pleasant young woman," said Charles.

"It is a pity for her she is so plain," Miss Bingley said. I quickly turned my eyes to Elizabeth. Her own were filled with anger, but she could not openly contradict Miss Bingley without being equally rude.

"Oh yes, she is nothing to dear Jane," added Louisa. "Jane has a sort of beauty that would induce a man to write poetry for her." I could not help rolling my eyes at this. Honestly, where did Miss Bingley and Louisa get off? I wished they would choose whether to insult the populace of Hertfordshire or praise it. They changed their opinions on Miss Bennet and the rest with each passing moment depending on what struck their fancy. It was tiresome.

John seemed to sense the volatility of Elizabeth's composure and tried to keep the conversation moving. Since Miss Bennet seemed to be held in esteem by all in the room, he said, "Actually, there was a gentlemen when Jane was fifteen who claimed to be in love with her. He wrote some verses on her that were rather diverting."

"And so ended his affection," Elizabeth added, in slightly better humor for the recollection. "There has been many a one, I fancy, overcome in the same way. I wonder who first discovered the efficacy of poetry in driving away love!"

I sent her a quizzical look. "I have been used to consider poetry as the food of love."

That eyebrow of hers rose again. "Of a fine, stout, healthy love it may. Everything nourishes what is strong already. But if it be only a slight, thin sort of inclination, I am convinced that one good sonnet will starve it entirely away." I grinned at her.

"Then, what would you suggest to encourage affection?"

"Dancing, Mr. Darcy," she replied, without missing a beat. "Even if every savage can dance." Our eyes locked as we both struggled not to laugh.

John cleared his throat and said, "Yes, well. I must be on my way, I'm afraid. Charles, thank you again for your hospitality to my sisters. It is greatly appreciated, I assure you."

Charles assured John it was his pleasure. John continued, "Darcy, might I have a word before I go?"

"Of course." I was a bit startled at his address. John never called me Darcy. It was always Will or Darce. He only reverted to Darcy when it was quite serious--and John was rarely serious. We excused ourselves from the company, and I followed John into Charles' sparsely stocked library. "What can I do for you?"

John looked directly at me and said, quite seriously, "You can tell me just what your intentions toward Lizzy are."

My eyes widened in disbelief. I hadn't thought I was that transparent. "I--I beg your pardon?" I sputtered.

"Look, Will. I'm not blind. I can see you are attracted to Lizzy--you seek her out at every meeting and hardly speak to anyone else. I also know that a marriage to Lizzy is not exactly what your family has in mind. Lizzy is not in love with you yet, but if you continue arguing with her they way you do, she is bound to realize just how much she likes you. And you two being thrown into the same house together for the next few days can only expedite that."

I turned away and paced to the window. John was right. I was attracted to her. And not just physically, though she was beautiful, but she was also so bright and witty and funny. I knew if I let myself, I could easily fall in love with her. Hell, I was halfway there already.

"I've had a similar conversation with Charles already regarding Jane. He says that he's in love with her and wants to court her, and I know Jane will be very happy with such a circumstance. I gave him my blessing, and he said he would seek my father's once Jane is well again. My family is not so far beneath his socially. He may be wealthier than we are, but his fortune comes from trade, while my father is a gentleman--It isn't such a stretch for him. I'll be happy to welcome him as a brother when it gets to that. Your family, however, is another matter.

"You are a good friend, Will," he continued. "I know you would never dally with Lizzy, but I was not sure if you knew what you were doing. Nothing would make me happier than to see you and Lizzy together, but I realize how unlikely that is. I don't want to see her hurt, so I'm putting you on your guard."

I heard his comments regarding Charles and Miss Bennet with some surprise. I hadn't known Charles thought of taking it so far. John was right, too, in that Charles could marry Jane Bennet without the social backlash that I might encounter. It made me happy, also, that John felt Miss Bennet did welcome Charles' attentions. I had not been sure and had been on the point of interfering due to Charles' overt regard for her. It suddenly occurred to me how absurd that would have been. It was Charles' choice after all, and it appeared he would now make the courtship official.

However, I also felt a twinge of jealousy that it seemed Charles would have his Miss Bennet, while I could not allow myself to have mine. It was exactly designed to show me just how much I wanted Elizabeth.

John was not quite finished, "If you hurt her, Will, I'll have no choice but to call you out over it regardless of being your friend. You know how much Lizzy means to me. And you know that it's not certain which of us would be the victor if such a thing came about. I'm not one of the dandies that have called you out in town, and we both know that this would be over more than a polite 'good evening' or a smile. So, please be careful with her."

I stared out at the garden in silence for a few moments. John just let me think, knowing I would speak when I was ready. At last, I turned to face him. "I understand your warning, John, and I understand why you had to issue it. You are right; I like Miss Elizabeth very much." I paused. Having said it aloud just made it all the more real. I ran a hand through my hair in agitation. "I promise I will think hard about what you said, and I promise I will not hurt her. But, I'm not prepared to say anything further at this time."

"It's all right, Will. I just had to make sure you were aware of things." John offered his hand, and I shook it. Our friendship would not suffer for his warning. In fact, had it been Georgiana, I would have done the same.

John left for Longbourn, and I went for a long ride, at the end of which, I was no closer to a solution than I had been before. I knew I wanted Elizabeth, that having her for my wife would be wonderful, but I did not know how to reconcile that with a lifetime of lessons about my obligations in marriage. Could I go against my family, society, and everything I had been taught and seize a chance at happiness?

I was writing a letter to Georgiana when Elizabeth appeared in the drawing room that evening. Polite inquiries were made as to her sister's improvement, and I noticed the slight darkness under her eyes, no doubt due to the lack of sleep she had gotten whilst tending to Miss Bennet. I was glad to hear that Miss Bennet was better as I did not want Elizabeth to fall ill from neglecting herself.

Everyone returned to his or her previous activities after the initial pleasantries, and Elizabeth took up some needlework. Unfortunately, Miss Bingley's previous activity had been hovering over me as I wrote and offering all manner of absurd compliments. I had been doing my best to ignore her, when she continued, "How delighted Miss Darcy will be to receive such a letter!"

After a moment, she added, "You write uncommonly fast."

"You are mistaken. I write rather slowly."

"How many letters you must have occasion to write in the course of the year! Letters of business too! How odious I should think them!"

"It is fortunate, then, that they fall to my lot instead of to yours."

"Pray tell your sister that I long to see her."

"I have already told her so once, by your desire." Here I heard a slight noise from Elizabeth's corner and looked up to find her paying her needlework uncommon attention and trying very hard not to smile. I felt my irritation with Miss Bingley being replaced by amusement with Elizabeth's struggle not to acknowledge the absurdity of the attention I was receiving.

Miss Bingley went on, "I am afraid you do not like your pen. Let me mend it for you. I mend pens remarkably well."

"Thank you--but I always mend my own."

"How can you contrive to write so even?" Here I remained silent. It was becoming increasingly difficult not to smile.

Again, Miss Bingley changed tact since I was ignoring her. "Tell your sister I am delighted to hear of her improvement on the harp, and pray let her know that I am quite in raptures with her beautiful little design for a table and I think it infinitely superior to Miss Grantley's."

I could not conceal a sigh. "Will you give me leave to defer your raptures till I write again? At present, I have not room to do them justice."

"Oh! It is of no consequence. I shall see her in January. But do you always write such charming long letters to her, Mr. Darcy?"

"They are generally long; but whether always charming, it is not for me to determine." Again I heard Elizabeth's attempt to conceal her amusement. I looked up and caught her eye, grinning at her so that Miss Bingley could not see me. However, Miss Bingley could see Elizabeth, and she quickly looked away.

"It is a rule with me that a person who can write a long letter with ease cannot write ill," Miss Bingley told the room, at large.

"That will not do for a compliment to Will, Caroline," Charles called from where he had been at piquet with Hurst. "He does not write with ease. He studies too much for words of four syllables. Do not you, Darce?"

I smiled at him. "My style of writing is very different from yours."

"Oh!" cried Miss Bingley, "Charles writes in the most careless way imaginable. He leaves out half his words and blots the rest."

"My ideas flow so rapidly that I have not time to express them--by which means my letters sometimes convey no ideas at all to my correspondents."

"Your humility, Mr. Bingley, must disarm reproof," Elizabeth offered, letting her smile show freely now and her eyes sparkle.

I knew I should not after my conversation with John, but I could not help replying, "Nothing is more deceitful, Miss Elizabeth, than the appearance of humility. It is often only carelessness of opinion, and sometimes an indirect boast." Her eyebrow rose in that arch manner of hers.

"Which of the two do you call my little recent piece of modesty?" asked Charles.

"The indirect boast--for you are really proud of your defects in writing, because you consider them as proceeding from a rapidity of thought and carelessness of execution, which if not estimable, you think at least highly interesting. The power of doing anything with quickness is always much prized by the possessor, and often without any attention to the imperfection of the performance. When you told John this morning that if you ever resolved on quitting Netherfield you should be gone in five minutes, you meant it to be a sort of panegyric, of compliment to yourself--yet what is there so very laudable in a precipitance which must leave very necessary business undone, and can be of no real advantage to yourself or anyone else?"

"Nay," cried Charles, "this is too much, to remember at night all the foolish things that were said in the morning. And, yet, I believed what I said of myself to be true. I did not assume the character of needless precipitance merely to show off."

I glanced at Elizabeth to see that she was following the conversation with rapt attention, her eyebrow still arched. "I daresay you believed it; but I am by no means convinced that you would be gone with such celerity. Your conduct would be quite as dependent on chance as that of any man I know; and if, as you were mounting your horse, a friend were to say, 'Charles, you had better stay till next week,' you would probably do it--and at another word, might stay another month."

"You have only proved by this," Elizabeth said, "that Mr. Bingley did not do justice to his own disposition. You have shown him off now much more than he did himself."

Charles grinned at me, before turning to Elizabeth. "I am exceedingly gratified by your converting what my friend says into a compliment on the sweetness of my temper. But I am afraid you are giving it a turn which that gentleman did not intend; he would think better of me if under such a circumstance I were to give a flat denial and ride off as fast as I could."

"Would Mr. Darcy then consider the rashness of your original intention as atoned for by your obstinacy in adhering to it?"

Charles' grin widened, "Well, Will? Please explain the matter."

I looked to Elizabeth, who was looking directly at me. I could see her waiting for my response so that she might tease me by it. "You expect me, Charles, to account for opinions which you choose to call mine, but which I have never acknowledged. Allowing the case, however, to stand according to your representation, you must remember, Miss Elizabeth, that the friend who is supposed to desire his return to the house has merely desired it, without offering one argument in favor of its propriety."

"To yield readily--easily--to the persuasion of a friend is no merit with you."

I was doing it again, arguing--nay, dueling--with her. Stop it, man! I thought. But I continued, nonetheless, "To yield without conviction is no compliment to the understanding of either."

"You appear to me, Mr. Darcy, to allow nothing for the influence of friendship and affection. A regard for the requester would often make one readily yield to a request, without waiting for arguments to reason one into it. We may as well wait, perhaps, till the circumstance occurs, before we discuss the discretion of Mr. Bingley's behavior. But in general and ordinary cases between friends, where one of them is desired by the other to change a resolution of no very great moment, should you think ill of that person for complying with the desire, without waiting to be argued into it?"

I teased her, "Will it not be advisable before we proceed to arrange with rather more precision the degree of importance which is to appertain to this request, as well as the degree of intimacy between the parties?"

"By all means," Charles cried. "Let us hear all the particulars, not forgetting their comparative height and size, for that will have more weight in the argument, Miss Elizabeth, than you may be aware of. I assure you that if Will were not such a great tall fellow, in comparison with myself, I should not pay him half so much deference. I declare I do not know a more awful object that Darcy, on particular occasions, and in particular places when he invokes what John and I affectionately call the Darcy Mask of Inscrutability."

I smiled at him and rolled my eyes toward Elizabeth. She laughed in response. "Yes, I believe Mr. Darcy has quite terrified half of Hertfordshire with his mask."

I shrugged and said, "I see your design, Charles. You dislike an argument and want to silence this."

"Perhaps I do. Arguments are too much like disputes. If you and Miss Elizabeth will defer yours till I am out of the room, I shall be very thankful; and then you may say whatever you like of me."

Elizabeth shot a look at me and then addressed Charles, "What you ask is no sacrifice on my side; and Mr. Darcy had much better finish his letter."

I grinned and did just that. When I had done, I asked the ladies to provide us some music. Miss Bingley asked Elizabeth to lead the way, but she demurred in favor of looking through the stack of music available. Caroline and Mrs. Hurst played some Italian songs and duets. I found myself staring at Elizabeth again as she sorted through the music atop the pianoforte. I had promised her brother that I would not hurt her, and truly that was the last thing I wanted to do to this adorable creature, but I still did not know how to proceed.

When Caroline began a lively Scotch air; my feet seemed to propel me toward Elizabeth of their own volition. I came up behind her and said in a low voice, "Do not you feel a great inclination, Miss Elizabeth, to seize such an opportunity of dancing a reel?"

She smiled at me and that eyebrow of hers arched again. When she did not immediately answer, I arched an eyebrow in return. At last she said, "You wanted me, I know to say 'Yes' that you might have the pleasure of despising my taste in joining in such a savage occupation; but I always delight in overthrowing those kind of schemes and cheating a person of their premeditated contempt. I have therefore made up my mind to tell you that I do not want to dance a reel at all--now despise me if you dare."

She had refused me a second time! Was I never to be allowed to dance with her again? I was highly amused, but looked at her very seriously and said, "I believe you know, Miss Elizabeth, that I would not dare anything of the sort." She was then called to take her turn at the instrument, and I delighted in watching her. I had never been so bewitched by any woman as I was by her.

Miss Bingley saw, or suspected enough to be jealous and, not so subtly, suggested that Elizabeth should retire to check on Miss Bennet. Once she had gone, Miss Bingley began to disparage her once again. Only this time she attempted to provoke me into disliking the Bennets by talking of my supposed marriage and planning my happiness in such an alliance. She offered advice in checking my mother-in-law's tongue and the boisterousness of my youngest sister-to-be. She even went so far as to suggest that I endeavor to check Elizabeth's impertinence--one of the aspects that made her most intriguing.

"Have you anything else to propose for my domestic felicity?"

"Oh! yes--Do let the portraits of your uncle and aunt Philips be placed in the gallery at Pemberley. Put them next to your great uncle the judge. They are in the same profession you know; only in different lines. As for your Elizabeth's picture, you must not attempt to have it taken, for what painter could do justice to those beautiful eyes?"

Really, my tongue seemed to have run away with me tonight. I knew I should not say it, that it would only provoke Miss Bingley to be more cruel toward Elizabeth, but I seemed incapable of stopping. "It would not be easy, indeed, to catch their expressions, but their color and shape, and the eye-lashes, so remarkably fine, might be copied." As I knew she would be, Miss Bingley was affronted by this remark but, happily, remained silent for the rest of the evening. I retired soon afterward, pausing briefly outside Elizabeth's door. Tonight, I had not been nearly as indifferent to her as I had planned to be. And she would still be here for some days.

The next day, I was out for a walk when I came across Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst. They insisted on attaching themselves to my arms, and we continued down the path. I was not subjected to their company long, however. We came across Elizabeth, bonnet in hand rather than on her head, on another path. Miss Bingley was immediately rude, "I did not know you intended to walk Miss Eliza."

"I usually enjoy a morning walk, Miss Bingley."

"Please join us, Miss Elizabeth," I offered.

Elizabeth was on the point of speech, when Miss Bingley interjected, her grasp on my arm tightening, "This walk is not wide enough for our party. We had better go into the avenue."

Elizabeth looked from Caroline to me--I saw the flash of annoyance mixed with humor in her eyes--and responded with a laugh, "No, no. Stay where you are. You are charmingly grouped and appear to uncommon advantage. The picturesque would be spoiled by admitting a fourth. I was just about to return to the house anyway. Goodbye."

She ran off gaily, and I watched her curls bouncing as she disappeared. I, too, declared my own intention of returning to the house before I was subjected to more of Miss Bingley's jealousy. My mind was in turmoil and a walk with Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst was not the sort of exercise I needed to clear it. I decided a round of fencing practice was in order.

I retrieved the wooden box in which my foils are kept when traveling from my room and made my way to the ballroom. There was ample room in that place to allow me to run through various styles of attack and defense. Though I had no opponent, I could still work up a good sweat--which usually helped tame my thoughts as well. Once in the room, I removed my coat and began a leisurely warm up before moving into a more complicated series of parries and thrusts.

I do not know how long I had been thus engaged when I heard a noise from a doorway, which had stood open. I stopped mid-thrust and turned to see what had made the noise. I found Elizabeth standing there, clearly embarrassed for having found me in such a position--again. I righted myself and felt heat in my own cheeks. She dropped a curtsey and muttered, "Forgive me, sir. I did not intend to intrude. I heard a noise as I passed by and wondered what it was. I'll leave you to your exercise."

She turned to go. I will never know what made me call out and stop her. I only know that I did. "Please, wait, Miss Elizabeth. You are not intruding. I was just about finished." I felt her gaze roam over me and take in my disheveled appearance.

She blushed again, and averted her eyes, "You seem to take fencing practice quite seriously. I've never seen anyone who could match John's skill the way you do."

"Yes, John is very skilled. He and I spent many happy hours at Cambridge sparring with one another." Again, I have no idea where it came from. My tongue seemed to have disconnected itself from my better judgment. "Would--Would you like a lesson, Miss Elizabeth?" As soon as the words were out of my mouth, I regretted them. Had I really just offered to give a fencing lesson to a proper young lady--and one who was not even related to me?

Elizabeth looked up sharply. Our eyes met and locked. I could see the struggle between embarrassment, propriety, and desire in her eyes. I was sure she could see a similar struggle in mine. At last she nodded and moved into the room.

I retrieved another foil from my set and moved to stand next to her. She looked up at me shyly. I took her hand and showed her how to grasp the hilt. Touching her without the impediment of gloves was like heaven. Her hand was warm in mine, and I felt that warmth throughout my entire body. I released her reluctantly to demonstrate several positions, which she mimicked. There was very little speech between us--only enough so that I could convey what she was to do. Once I had shown her the basic numbered positions, I stood opposite her, and we crossed blades. I called out a number, and she blocked my blade with the appropriate move. Our eyes never left one another. She had a natural ability--I assumed John had given her a lesson or two before--but she was breathing hard and was slightly clumsy with the foil. But, then again, so was I and not from exertion.

She made one block incorrectly, and again without thinking, I set aside my blade and moved to stand behind her. I placed my right hand over hers on the handle and placed my other hand on her left shoulder, guiding her through the movement. She followed my lead, leaning into me. I became intoxicated by the scent of roses in her hair and the way that her body fit against mine. We moved together through a series of blocks as if in a dance. I had never felt anything so intense or so right as holding Elizabeth in my arms.

I stopped moving, and she looked up at me. When our eyes met, I knew that she was just as affected by our closeness as I. Our hands, which held the foil, dropped to our sides and my other arm moved from her shoulder to wind about her waist, pulling her more tightly against me. A sigh escaped her, and my gaze dropped to her full, perfect lips. I leaned down, rational thought having completely left me at this point. My lips were a mere inch from hers when a noise in the hallway startled us both.

Elizabeth sprung away from me and dropped the sword. It clattered to the floor, and the haze cleared from my mind. I had nearly kissed Elizabeth! I looked to her to find her staring at her feet, her cheeks crimson and her breathing heavy. God! I still wanted to kiss her. "I--I," she stuttered. "I thank you for the lesson, sir. Please excuse me." With that, she fairly ran from the room.

And that was it. I knew then and there that it was futile. I was completely in love with Elizabeth, and now nothing would stop me from making her my wife. I did not care what society thought, and my family would learn to accept her once they met her and saw how happy she made me. As soon as she and her sister returned to Longbourn, it appeared Mr. Bennet would be receiving not one, but two callers with questions about his daughters.

Unfortunately, I first had to find Elizabeth, apologize for my forward behavior, and gain her permission to court her. Today was turning out to be much more eventful than I had anticipated.

I grabbed my coat and hurried through the door through which Elizabeth had disappeared. She was nowhere to be seen, but a servant--who I presumed had made the noise that startled us--was arranging a vase of fall flowers on a table. I asked if she had noted where Elizabeth had gone, and the girl pointed toward the garden with a curtsey. Seeing that the doors at the end of the hallway stood open, I walked through and squinted against the bright sunshine. I looked left and right, but saw no sign of Elizabeth.

I began a thorough search of the gardens around the house. She was not in the arbor or the rose garden or on any of the various paths. At last, I spied the pale pink of her morning gown peeking out from behind a large willow tree. Ducking beneath the low hanging branches, I rounded the tree to see Elizabeth leaning against the trunk with her arms wrapped around her middle and her eyes closed. She looked scared and vulnerable and perfect. I reached out to her and whispered, "Elizabeth."

She started and opened her eyes. "Mr. Darcy! I--" She began backing away from me, ready to flee again. "I was just going back to the house, sir. I--"

She kept backing away as I kept walking toward her. Just as she turned I took hold of her arm to stop her. "Elizabeth, please. Please don't run away again. Please talk to me."

She studied her feet. "I don't know what to say to you."

"Then just listen," I began. I took her small hand into both of my own and entwined our fingers. She didn't pull away. "I am sorry if frightened you before or made you uncomfortable. That was not my intention. I'm afraid I have trouble thinking quite clearly when you are near." She continued to stare at the ground, and I could feel her trembling. "Lizzy, please look at me."

Slowly, she looked up into my eyes. I could see uncertainty there, but something more. A new sort of awareness shone that had not been there before. "Lizzy, since the moment that I met you at the assembly more than a month ago, I've come to feel for you a passionate admiration and regard. You are so bright, and your intelligence sparkles from your eyes. You are so very beautiful." I reached up and stroked her cheek. "Lizzy, I would be honored if you would allow me to court you. May I?"

Elizabeth's eyes lit up, and she nodded. I grinned at her, and she grinned back. "As soon you return to Longbourn, I shall speak to your father." She nodded again, and we continued to grin at each other. I was elated. I knew it was too soon to ask her to marry me, but I looked forward to courting her for a while before joining my life with hers forever. John, Charles, and I would be brothers. Georgiana would get the best sister I could hope for her to have. And I would get to wake up to Elizabeth's smile every morning.

And, fall asleep with her in my arms every night. My gaze dropped from her amber flecked eyes to her red lips, and I pulled her closer to me. "Lizzy, may I kiss you?" I whispered.

"Yes, Will," she whispered back. Slowly I leaned down to her and brushed her lips with my own. I had intended it to be a simple, chaste kiss, but as I had said, I couldn't think clearly around her. My arms went around her waist and hers went around my neck. I kissed her again and again then spun her around beneath the willow tree. We both laughed aloud as we spun about. When I set her down I drew her to me and just held her in my arms. She just seemed to fit.

Miss Bennet was feeling much better that evening, and she and Elizabeth decided they should return home. Charles insisted the stay for dinner, and John joined us as well. After dinner, we all gathered in the drawing room. Elizabeth and I had determined that we should not pay any undo attention to one another, as I had not obtained her father's permission to court her yet. In an attempt to adhere to that resolution, we each took up a book and sat in opposite corners of the room.

Charles ensured that Miss Bennet was warm and comfortable by the fire and engaged her in conversation to the exclusion of the rest of the room. Miss Bingley decided that she should read as well and that the best position for this was right next to me. She chose the second volume to what I was reading but expended very little energy on it. She continually watched my progress through my book or made some inquiry about it. I cannot say that I had much attention for reading either. I turned pages at regular intervals but comprehended very little. Most of my attention was focused on the brunet on the other side of the room.

At last, Miss Bingley gave up trying to read at all when she could not gain my attention and tossed her book aside. "How pleasant it is to spend an evening in this way! I declare there is no enjoyment like reading! When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library."

No one replied. After a moment's silence, John asked, "Charles, did I hear rightly that you are considering giving a ball at Netherfield?"

"Yes, as soon as your sister is fully recovered," Charles answered, smiling at Miss Bennet.

"Charles," Miss Bingley began, "I would advise you before you determine to give a ball to consult the wishes of the present party; I am much mistaken if there are not some amongst us to whom a ball would be rather a punishment than a pleasure."

"If you mean Darce," cried her brother, "he may go to bed, if he chooses, before it begins--but the ball is quite a settled thing; and as soon as Nicholls has made white soup enough I shall send round my cards."

"I should like balls infinitely better," Miss Bingley said, "if they were carried on in a different manner. It would surely be much more rational if conversation instead of dancing made the order of the day."

I replied, "Much more rational, Miss Bingley, but it would not be near so much like a ball."

"Besides," added Elizabeth. "One must have some conversation whilst dancing, Miss Bingley. It would appear odd to be entirely silent for an half hour together." Elizabeth caught my eye, and we both attempted to conceal our grins at the recollection of our first, and only, dance at Meryton.

John shot me a warning look, and I returned my attention to my book. Miss Bingley soon after got up and walked about the room. Her figure was elegant, and she walked well; but I, at whom the display was undoubtedly aimed, remained studious. After a few minutes of pacing back and forth before me, she turned in desperation to Elizabeth and asked, "Miss Eliza Bennet, might I persuade to follow my example and take a turn about the room? It is so refreshing after sitting so long in one attitude."

I looked up, as Miss Bingley intended, and saw that Elizabeth was as surprised as I. Miss Bingley really made very little sense the majority of the time. You would think that if she had to use Elizabeth, of whom she was jealous and did not like, to gain my attention she would take the hint and leave off. Sadly, that was not the case. Elizabeth again caught my eye and raised her eyebrow at me. I shrugged just barely in return.

Miss Bingley saw that I was watching the two of them and invited me to join in their stroll. "Miss Bingley, I can imagine but two motives for your choosing to walk up and down the room together, with either of which I would interfere."

"What could he mean? Miss Eliza can you understand him at all?"

"Not at all," Elizabeth answered. "But depend upon it, he means to be severe on us, and our surest way of disappointing him will be to ask nothing about it." I could see her trying to hide her smile.

"Nay, we insist on knowing your meaning, sir," Miss Bingley said.

"Well, ladies. You either choose this method of passing the evening because you are in each other's confidence and have secret affairs to discuss, or because you are conscious that your figures appear to the greatest advantage in walking--if the first, I should be completely in your way; and if the second, I can admire you much better as I sit by the fire." I really did try, but I could not keep my gaze from roaming appreciatively over Elizabeth. When I reached her face, I saw a slight blush upon her cheeks. I then transferred my eyes to Miss Bingley, who was watching Elizabeth blush with narrowed eyes and thankfully missed my scrutiny.

"Oh! Shocking!" cried Miss Bingley. "I never heard anything so abominable. How shall we punish him for such a speech?"

Elizabeth spoke to her shoes, "Nothing so easy if you have but the inclination. Tease him--laugh at him." She raised her eyes and met mine, saying, "Intimate as you are, you must know how it is to be done."

I was glad this conversation seemed to be above Miss Bingley's understanding. She cried, "But upon my honor I do not. Tease calmness of temper and presence of mind! No, no--I feel he may defy us there. And as to laughter, we will not expose ourselves, if you please by attempting to laugh without a subject."

Elizabeth stepped away from her, removing Miss Bingley's hand from her arm. She grinned at me. "Mr. Darcy is not to be laughed at? That is an uncommon advantage, and uncommon I hope it will continue, for I dearly love a laugh."

I knew only too well that Elizabeth had been laughing at me and arguing with me since I arrived in the area. And, I hoped she continued to do so. I saw that John was watching us with rapt attention. Charles and Miss Bennet were still oblivious to the whole room, and the Hursts were being their usual, inattentive selves. "Miss Bingley has given me credit for more than can be. The wisest and best of men, nay the wisest and best of their actions, may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first object in life is a joke."

"Certainly," replied Elizabeth. "There are such people, but I hope I am not one of them. I hope I never ridicule what is wise or good. Follies and nonsense, whims and inconsistencies--" she shot a glance at Miss Bingley--"do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can. But I suppose these are precisely what you, my dear sir, are without."

"Perhaps that is not possible for any one. But it has been the study of my life to avoid those weaknesses which often expose a strong understanding to ridicule."

I arched an eyebrow at her, anticipating her response, but it was John who said, with a slight edge to his voice, "Such as vanity or pride, Will?"

I looked directly at him, trying to convey to him that I knew what I was doing. "Yes, vanity is a weakness indeed. But pride--where there is a real superiority of mind, pride will always be under good regulation."

Elizabeth turned away with a smile, and John's gaze shifted from me to her, trying to understand. He asked, "Your examination of Will is over, I presume, Lizzy. Pray, what is the result?"

Elizabeth grinned first at John, then at me. "I am perfectly convinced by it that Mr. Darcy has no defect. He owns it himself without disguise."

I grinned back. "No, I have made no such pretension. I have faults enough, but I hope they are not of understanding. My temper may be called resentful. My good opinion once lost is lost forever, and you have already heard tell of the Darcy Mask of Inscrutability. But, then, there is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil, a natural defect, which not even the best education can overcome."

Elizabeth responded, her eyes sparkling with humor, "Your defect is a propensity to hate everybody."

"And yours," I replied with a smile, "is willfully to misunderstand them." Our eyes locked as we silently laughed at one another.

Even John could not remain entirely indignant at my still arguing with Elizabeth after his warning. He chuckled, "Well, I must say you have pegged each other quite well. Lizzy, he's read you like a book and you him."

Miss Bingley, who I am convinced only really understood half of the conversation, ended the exchange by calling, with imperfect composure, "Do let us have a little music. Louisa, you will not mind my waking Mr. Hurst."

Her sister made not the smallest objection, and Miss Bingley began to play, calling all conversation to a halt. Elizabeth smiled at me once more and returned to her book. I watched her for a moment, until I heard John clear his throat. When I looked to him, he was glaring at me. I realized I needed to tell him what had passed between Elizabeth and myself earlier that day. I cocked my head toward the door to indicate he should follow me out.

Once we were in the sitting room across the hallway, John demanded, "Have you gone daft, Will? Did you not understand what I said yesterday?"

I held up a hand to forestall his lecture. "I understood you perfectly, John. As I promised, I thought hard about it and came to a decision. I asked Elizabeth this morning for her permission to court her, and I am ecstatic to tell you that she accepted."

John looked taken aback. "You are going to court Lizzy? For the purpose of marriage?"

"Yes."

He ran a hand through his dark hair--the same color as Elizabeth's. "What about your family? What about society? They will not be happy with an alliance to a country gentleman's family with connections in trade."

"I realize that, John. Since our conversation yesterday, I came to understand that Elizabeth means more to me than my aunts' and uncle's disapprobation, and you know I have never given a jot what society at large thinks." John nodded.

I looked him directly in the eyes as I continued, "I've fallen in love with her, John. I will protect her from my family and not allow any of them to disparage her. My aunt, Lady Catherine, may be difficult to convince, but I am sure that Lord and Lady Matlock will love Elizabeth once they meet her. Even if they don't, I have no need of their approval to marry. I love her, and I want Elizabeth for my wife."

Silence hung between us for several moments. John seemed to search my face to measure my sincerity and determination. At last, he said, "Well, Darce, when we spoke yesterday, I must admit that this is not the outcome I had expected, and even if I had hoped it might eventually come to this, I thought it unlikely and certainly never thought it would come about this quickly."

I grinned. "You know me, John. Once I decide on something, I go for it, no hesitation, no second thoughts. In fact, the only reason I did not ask Elizabeth to marry me out right is that you had said she was not in love with me yet. Besides, she deserves a proper courtship, and I intend to give her one. I shall call on your father tomorrow."

John nodded and grinned back at me. "Well, you have my blessing to be sure. I cannot imagine a better husband for Lizzy, and I will be proud to call you my brother."

We shook hands before returning to the drawing room. When we entered, Elizabeth looked up at us, a slight frown creasing her brow. Her eyes went back and forth between John and me. John gave her a smile, and I sent her a wink. She grinned back and then glanced at the others before returning to her book.

The three Bennet siblings left shortly afterward. I was quite sad to see Elizabeth go, but I knew she could not stay any longer now that we had entered into a courtship. I would see her again tomorrow, when I called at Longbourn to ask Mr. Bennet's permission.