Jump to new as of March 24, 1998

Author's Note: Is it possible for Mr. Darcy to commit the same mistakes in the XX century? Some things never change, except now Darcy is a lawyer, so is Elisabeth; Bingley spends enormous amounts of money on charity which might have something to do with Jane running centre for children from pathological families. Consensus facit nuptias (The mutual consent makes the marriage), but will it ever happen? It took me some time and some courage to come up with this story. I hope the language will not prove to be too deficient (ha, ha). Many thanks to Joanna - for setting up the fire, now at least we have something to occupy ourselves with on Monday lectures.

he sun shining through the red and yellow leaves of an oak tree was generously goldening the interior of the darkly furnished office in The City. The sun ray was lazily moving through the polished surfaces of cherry wood furniture to the amber cover of the lamp standing on the desk, where its path got broken up letting its offspring roam to every corner. The atmosphere inside the room though, was far from the sleepy relaxation that the weather suggested.

"How many? Five?!!!", exclaimed Darcy, "Are you completely out of your mind? Five "lawyers to be" rampaging around my office? Are you conscious of the fact that I simply cannot afford them ruining my business?"

Bingley looking like a brat receiving a reprimand for bad behaviour tried to explain himself, "but Darcy, it is going to be such a great advertisement".

"Yes, I am quite sure of it. But Bingley, have mercy; I have already signed an agreement with the university and I am flooded with the applications," was Darcy's reply.

His friend sighted, "In that case I guess you do not have much choice. Only Caroline will be disappointed; she was amongst those who were willing to apply."

Darcy's amazement almost reached top, "Caroline, working? Forgive me Bingley for saying this, but since your sister finished her education, she declared herself to be "a free spirit". Wasn't she claiming that any kind of office work would kill her individuality and passion?"

Certainly Bingley had realised what effect his words would have, for he was trying to justify his sister, "Well, yes; but since my management over her part of the will soon will be terminating, I thought it not a bad idea to make her realise what difficulties she might encounter in the future."

For a brief moment there was silence and one could almost hear the sun sliding through mist of dust raising from the bookshelves. Finally Darcy declared, "if that is only thing that concerns you so much, I want you to know that you can always count on my advise; but for God's sake, I need a qualified, educated lawyer, not an interior designer. I am deeply sorry to have disappointed you."

Bingley let out a laugh, "as Caroline once said you, with your superior understanding are entitled to disappoint people...".

Raising from behind his desk Darcy said, "I must bid you farewell, business awaits."

"Shall you come over for a dinner tonight?' asked his friend on his way to the door. The answer was not to be appreciated by some of his family, Darcy was needed by the Viscount in Scotland for a few days. Back in his office Darcy stood gazing out of the window thinking with pleasure of the awaiting trip. Once or twice he deliberated upon how fortunate he was to have the best friend managing to get over some of his ideas so quickly.

As time passed Darcy forgot about Bingley's request. He had many things to discuss with the Viscount and the family obligations had kept his mind from pondering the proposal. On coming back from Scotland he was surprised to find himself greeted politely at the door by a young woman. Storming into his cousin's study Darcy exclaimed, "Fitzwilliam, who is that lady in our reception office????"

Calmly and boldly as usual Colonel answered, "She is an apprentice, I suppose."

Darcy's irritation grew, "You suppose? And how come I have never seen her application?".

"She has arrived only after you have left. I could not find her papers, so I thought it must have been that business with Bingley. Why?", asked Fitzwilliam not rising his head from the desk.

There was just a slight moan as Darcy slipped into his armchair, "I knew this would have happened. Most probably she does not have any experience. She will be spending whole day chatting on the phone, making coffee and flirting with the delivery boy. And because of Bingley I cannot call her off. It is strange though that he has sent her here knowing what was my opinion upon that matter." The small speech started off like a complaint but it did not finish so, Darcy was indeed angry.

With a sudden haste that escaped Darcy's notice his cousin started gathering papers from his desk, "Come on, why do you always expect the worst? We will see how it will turn out. I have got to run to Mr. Lucas. If he changes his will once more, I will make sure it will be the last time he does it. I have seen him already five times in the past two weeks." Colonel kept on talking, but Darcy was not listening. So many things needed his attention, and now this .....If I only knew what was the connection between Bingley and my apprentice......

Darcy reluctantly left the study. He dedicated his life to this job. After his parents death he did not have anything to fill the emptiness. It took him some time to realise that the experience was even more severe on his sister. He himself at least had the memories to hold on to, she had only him. He never quite knew if to cherish these bits and pieces of the past or to curse them, as they certainly had greater effect on him than he ever openly admitted. Sometimes almost hounded by them Darcy indulged himself in the tireless work, trying to lock out any kind of emotions. For Georgiana's sake it had to be so, he reminded himself.

As Darcy entered the reception office he saw the apprentice going through some papers and talking lively to Colonel. The soft perils of her laughter still lingered in the air as he stood by the door observing her pleasant figure and curly, dark hair put up with a wooden pin. He never liked to be distracted, especially by something he did not have control of and it seemed like it is not going to be easy to get the control of that lady. What has Fitzwilliam told her to make her laugh so much? Colonel's voice was certainly not a quiet one, so Darcy could easily overhear the last sentence his cousin uttered before quitting the bureau, which startled him immensely : "believe me, there is nothing as awful as a bored Darcy with nothing to do, especially on Sunday afternoon at his own house."

Trying to control himself Darcy spoke to the woman, "If you are done with flirting then maybe we might get to the business."

The apprentice surprised by his sudden appearance and shocked by his words turned quickly in his direction, "Pardon me?"

Narrowing his eyes he looked at her radiant face with barely any make up on; he continued, "I should have introduced myself - William Darcy, and you are....".

"Elisabeth Bennet, I am supposed to..".

He interrupted her not very politely, "believe me, Miss Bennet, I am quite conscious of what your role will be during the next couple of months."

There was a sudden change in her - the smile was gone, she straightened up and her eyes were sparkling with annoyance as she spoke, "and that is, sir..?".

"Let us not discuss it now", came the answer, "I want to know if you are by any chance acquainted with Mr. Bingley?".

Checked by his sudden change of topic Elisabeth hesitated for a moment, "Well yes; I have met him on the occasion, when he was contributing a donation for the centre for children from pathological families and with minor disabilities, which is run by my sister Jane."

With a sarcastic smile and a grave look Darcy answered, "That explains it all", and immediately added, "You are to start off with the secretarial job. Once you get used to the peculiar language we are using, we will get you some strictly juridical work". Which I doubt will ever happen, maybe some serious work will scare you off, he continued in his thoughts.

Elisabeth silently followed her new employer to his office. She had serious problems gathering her thoughts. Why was he so unpleasant, let's not be euphemistic, why was he so rude? It seemed that she was doomed to spend some time bearing with the man's unpleasant attitude. It really did not matter that much. The most important was the fact that she has finally has got her dream job. Elisabeth supposed she has been very lucky in having to run the interview and her application form with Colonel Fitzwilliam rather than with Mr. Darcy, who as it now seemed has been much more reluctant to see a new person on the job. But after all she had the education and the experience. Her references were more than good. She remembered how her tutor has been disappointed in finding out she did not want to continue her career at the university. But it has been a long time since Elisabeth had felt this urge deep inside to get back to real life and escape from books and theories . She wanted to remind herself why she choose to study law in the first place and no Mr. Darcy was able to stop her.

Darcy, extremely irritated, roamed around his study. He has been putting up with Miss Bennet already for a week. How come this girl does not react to any of his hints about how much harder the job will get with the time? For sure he was more disturbed by her mere presence in the office than he could endure. She did not complain, she told him she did not drink coffee, she did not flirt with the delivery boy, she was good at her job and, she was like a scar that always triggered. The door suddenly swung open and Caroline Bingley virtually stormed into his office. She was wearing something that looked like a Macbeth's witch costume - black, greyish, multilayered with some feathers hanging from her arms. Does she always take the great designers seriously? thought Darcy and said, "Caroline, what a delightful surprise; beautiful as always".

Before he had time to comment further upon her visit she threw her arms around his neck giving him a hug more than generous. However shocked Darcy has been it did not escape his notice that the door was left open and that Miss Bennet was observing the scene with quite a quizzical smile. That certainly has brought him to his senses, although it took him some time to untangle from whatever was hanging on Caroline's body. "What brings you so unexpectedly", he commanded.

"My dearest Darcy I have had a chance to speak to Charles only now and I am truly devastated by your decision. I am sure I could be of use in here", cried out Caroline trying to figure out the best position of her figure on the sofa at the same time.

"I am sorry to have disappointed you, but unfortunately your brother already took care of everything" explained he...and I guess I should be grateful for that....

"I suppose you are talking about that girl who tried to stop me on my way here? What a complete lack of tact. I do not have a slightest idea where my brother could have established such connections. I bet she does not have the experience needed for the job, after all she looks so young", vexed Caroline raising her voice.

This remark almost made Darcy blush; he clinched his teeth together and closed the door, this is not going to be an easy visit, he thought.

She continued, "Most of them get their career either by being offensive and aggressive or by charming up the boss. Did she already charm you up Darcy ?"

"Certainly I do not claim so, Caroline. Woman's mind hastily as usual jumps to conclusions before all the arguments are adduced. I would not tolerate such behaviour from any of my employees or close acquaintance; fortunately she is only an apprentice, she will not be here long enough to endanger me - she is free to behave as wild as she wishes or as wild as her good taste will permit. Judging after how she has got in here I doubt she has any though."

Although agreeing with Bingley's sister on certain topics he was eager to get rid of her. Some time passed before he managed to accomplish that. Anyway it cost him a promise to allow Caroline redecorate the reception office. He saw her off on her way out and coming back stopped at Elisabeth's desk. "Miss Bennet", he started, feeling quite uneasy after Caroline's comments, "from next week onwards Miss Bingley is going to visit us quite often. She is to redecorate the reception's office. I hope it will not be inconvenient for you?".

"Why should it be?", asked Elisabeth archly.

"Well, I thought you might...", suddenly he was out of words...and this mischievous smile of her. I do not need to explain myself to her, "It is just to let you know to follow her instructions", he finished angrily and with offended looks went back to his office.

Elisabeth was not really concerned about the next week until it finally came and she found out she was to face Miss Caroline Bingley on her own, as Mr. Darcy "suddenly" had to go away on business. The above mentioned lady was all charity and sweetness when she arrived, but once she has heard the news, she started abusing Elisabeth in the most indignant manner. Tired of the noise of the hammers and drills, Elisabeth transferred herself into Mr. Darcy's office, otherwise she would not have been able to work. She excused herself from helping Caroline to choose the right colours, "I am certainly not qualified for such a job, and your experience as well as taste much exceed mine." At last on hearing this, Bingley's sister started addressing Elisabeth every half an hour instead of every fifteen minutes. Although she would not expect this, the office was empty without her employer. She did not have any problems in dealing with the cases he was usually handling, but it would be better to know that he is near to give his advice when needed. The stacks of papers covering his vast desk were diminishing at quite a high rate. She had prepared a couple of open contracts and drafted express trust and finally she was free for the weekend.

Jane was pacing nervously around the room, "Elisabeth I just do not know what to do. Mr. Bingley has been such a great help, if it was not for the money he donated I would have to close down the kindergarten and it would simply break my heart. I thought it not a bad idea to let kids do some drawings and invite him to see what his money is spent for and now he has invited me and six of the kids to his residence for the whole weekend!!!!".

Elisabeth smiled and decided to tease her a bit, "Jane, you sweet creature, what are you afraid off? It is simply an act of generosity from the sponsor."

"That is the whole point about this situation, Elisabeth, until now even if somebody gave me the money getting to know the children was the last thing they would do. And now not only Mr. Bingley came personally to spend some time with them , but he also has given this invitation...." cried out Jane.

"So what seems to be the problem?" asked her younger sister, "previously men used to give you the money for the kindergarten and expected you to throw yourself into their arms; this one at least is taking the whole situation seriously, he cares and does exactly what anyone really interested in the well being of children would do."

The answer came in a bit of a shaky voice, "it is just that the first time someone has taken my work seriously, someone appreciates the effort I am putting in it....".

Her sister was of a sharp wit and knew straight away what Jane was trying not to say, "therefore you fell a bit inclined towards Mr. Bingley, not because of his money, but because of his attitude and real interest in your problems."

"Oh, Lizzy, do not imply a situation that simply cannot happen, he is to remind a generous donor only. It is true, that he is very amiable and I cannot deny that I am very pleased with meeting such a man, but as you have said, he is seriously concerned about the children and I shall not wish for it to be otherwise. Enough of this dwelling upon impossibilities, how was your week?"

Elisabeth sighted, "strange is not a word good enough to describe it. It has been a pleasure to meet Colonel Fitzwilliam, but Mr. Darcy is a real puzzle. He is an excellent lawyer, no doubt, but he is so officious and reserved, besides that I guess he does not rank female lawyers too high. I was told to start off with secretarial job and get accustomed to the "specific language"!!!! At least he does not flirt with me, as it happened when I first tried to get a job. There is one thing that disturbed me enormously though, the very first day I have arrived to the office Mr. Darcy enquired if I knew Charles Bingley, and when I affirmed, he said it explained it all. I was so puzzled I did not know what to think of it. By the way, my dear Jane, no matter how pleasant and well bred Mr. Bingley might seem, it is not going to improve my opinion of his sister, Caroline. She is the most obnoxious person I have ever met, full of pretensions of upper class, either condemning everything you say or taking it for granted, depending on your birth certificate."

"I am sure she cannot be that bad, maybe she is simply insecure?", questioned Jane, "In any case I shall find out myself this weekend. I wanted to ask you to go with me to help out with the children, but I shall not trouble you, as Caroline is supposed to be there as well."

"Dearest sister, this is the only thing that could convince me to go with you. I do not intend to let you face this hail cloud all by yourself, besides I want you to have a chance to get acquainted better with you donor and I have some idea how absorbing your little angels can get".

"What the hell is HE doing here? He is supposed to be on a business trip!!!" called out Elisabeth on seeing Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley approaching the van she has just parked in front of the entrance to residence. His surprise almost equalled hers.

Darcy has been very eager to get to know this Jane Bennet whose name seemed to sound in every conversation he has had with Bingley in past weeks. What he did not expect was his own employee and six children from four to six years old. She looked differently than in the office, Ha, the immortal suit is gone, I was already doubting if she ever wears skirts. Elisabeth on her side was very eager to get to know Charles Bingley, in order to determine if he was good enough for her oversensitive sister. What she did not expect was her own employer to be present. Incredible, he actually possesses some other clothes than suits and not always strangles himself with a tie. Necessary introductions have been made and Bingley has ordered the whole party to the house. Elisabeth carefully picked up from a seat a four year old girl who fell asleep on their way. She realised she was being observed quite closely and did not like a single jot of it. She decided she is not going to be intimidated and with a sweet smile she has transferred the girl straight into arms of surprised Darcy, claiming other children are going to need her attention in the new environment.

Section II

"Mr. Bingley, I am sure you are conscious of the fact that most of these children come from middle income families. Some of them are very wealthy, but most will be overwhelmed by what surrounds them here, so please do not draw any false conclusions. In spite of their young age they already know that these are feelings that count the most. They do not only want toys and candies, they also want someone to play with them and instead of candies eat the dinner together," Jane attempted to explain some of her doubts to Bingley.

"I am mainly conscious of the fact that you are devoting your time and you are giving them the feelings they were deprived of," came an answer followed with a warm smile. "Please do not be alarmed, I know what obligations fall on me as your host. I think it would not be a bad idea to give kids some refreshments and let them rest for a while. The maids will call us when they awake."

Meanwhile Darcy shifted the girl to the other arm, tenderly patted her on the back and asked Elisabeth," shall we go?"

Elisabeth stood quite speechless for some time, before she has regained her self control. She was ashamed of herself, how could she possibly think of using children to revenge herself on him? All right, he considered her to be good enough to work for him, he condemned her conduct to Caroline and hurt her pride but she had no right to involve the children. This weekend is not going to be based on employer - employee relationship. All this had to be left behind the gates of the residence.

After a short dispute, the sisters agreed to take shifts with the children, at least for Friday afternoon and night. That is why Elisabeth had been having her dinner with Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy and Caroline Bingley alone. She was happy that Jane did not have to go through this mortifying experience. Caroline has been simply unbearable, digging deep down in the connections of the Bennet's family.

"So, Miss Bennet, you say lawyers have quite a history in your family?"

"I would not dare say so, Miss Bingley. My uncle, Mr. Philips is with Scotland Yard. He has been with them for over 20 years. I am sure I would not call it neither history nor law as you put it."

With a very confident smile Caroline addressed HER favourite guest, "Darcy, I believe your family also has long practice in law?"

"You are right Caroline, my great grandfather was paying services to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council."

"Pray, tell me, Miss Eliza, how did you get involved in law?"

As civil as nerves could endure, she answered, "I did not have any previous inclinations to study law. I simply had decided that it is the most humanistic studies I could take up, giving me the broadest possibilities for the future."

"And your sister?"

"Oh, Jane is doing what she always wanted to do. It also goes along with her character to help those in need."

For a change Miss Bingley decided to amuse the rest of the party, "I could never imagine getting involved into something I am not really interested in. I like doing things with passion, giving it my best. It always has to be something extraordinary, I get bored with the everyday matter so easily."

"But Miss Bingley, that might be tiresome. Certainly one has to enjoy and live every day as it is the last one, but there is so much to be found in the usual curse of things. Some people simply do not have merits enough to live their lives the way you do, their comfort is to be found in the small things that they can encompass," exclaimed Elisabeth.

Bingley felt obliged to intrude in the conversation to help out his guest, "As far as I am concerned, I do not really care about living my life the way Caroline suggested. It wears you out too much."

"But you cannot deny it", said Darcy, "that it is important to put proper attention to work where it is needed. Some things simply cannot be neglected, Whether you like it or not the nature of the obligations of your everyday life does not always allow you indulge yourself into them with pleasure and you must simply bear them."

"That I do not doubt you carry out excellently, but I guess you are one of the very few people I know in person who not only bear it but also manage to derive some pleasure of it", hinted Bingley.

"You have to try harder than that, Bingley, to discourage me. I simply do not let myself forget about certain things and I am happy about that," he replied.

Although it has been quite a scene to observe Bingley disagreeing with Darcy, Elisabeth decided that there was no point in dwelling further on the subject. She raised from behind the table and excused herself in order to attend Jane and the children.

On the way to the nursery her mind pondered upon Darcy's words. What a stiff figure he is, believing he is always right. There are more important things in life than sticking with "the obligations of the society" you live in. I bet his life has been so comfortable until now that he did not even have time to consider the restraints it brings on some whose fate has been less fortunate than his own.

The visitors had settled themselves comfortably enough and after a delicious meal were pleasantly indulged in the old nursery room. Jane decided it would be nice to take a stroll in the surrounding garden. She came back with Bingley who had prepared a surprise for them. They took to the stables where a carriage waited for them. Accompanied by four children Bingley and Jane fitted into it. Elisabeth declined the invitation to join them, deciding to take two shyer kids for a walk. Two of Bingley's greyhounds escorted them with a great joy. Dry leaves have been rustling quietly under their feet. The deep violet of the sky and the whiteness of the clouds had been blooded by the sunset. Calmed down boys started chatting with their guardian. Soon the three of them were playing with the dogs. At the present moment Elisabeth was as happy as she could be. No wonder she took the liberty to follow James and Brian's example, and started throwing at them and up in the sky piles of freshly fallen leaves. Tired of this, the company rested themselves and quietly observed the sun set, while Elisabeth was picking up different leaves to her bouquet, describing each leaf and the tree it came from to the boys.

At a certain distance Caroline satisfied with what she saw was bugging Darcy in order to undermine further his opinion of a certain lady, "I dare say this is not behaviour one could expect from a serious, well bred woman. I hope such things do not happen too often in the office. Your clients might soon drop out one by one like those leaves."

"I would rather say that some of them would visit my office too often if there was such an amusement to be found.", smiled Darcy.

"Am I to understand you approve of behaviour and conduct?"

"Not at all," came the answer, otherwise Darcy remained silent occupied with his own thoughts. Caroline whose revengeful nature has not been fully satisfied resolved they should venture back. At the path's crossing they met with Elisabeth, James and Brian, who very delighted although a bit dirty carried a bunch of gold, copper and red leaves each. They handed them to Elisabeth and ran after the dogs.

"Miss Bennet, would you care to join us?" inquired Darcy, surprisingly politely, and Elisabeth has found herself unable to refuse.

Meanwhile James and Brian sneaked from the back and threw a handful of leaves at Caroline. For a moment the whole party stood shocked . One quick look at Darcy showed Elisabeth that his face muscles have been all strained from trying to lock out laughter. Caroline's favourite "witch like" costume composed extremely well with the leaves.

Darcy finally managed to speak, "quite an artistic concept, my dear". He looked into Elisabeth's eyes and they both just burst out laughing. Caroline did not appreciate it and was ready to let out her anger to the boys. Darcy quickly checked her by kneeling down in front of the boys to enquire why did they do it.

"Well", said Brian hesitantly, "When we were playing Miss Bennet said it was like taking a bath in the sun rays. We wanted Miss Bingley to take a bath as well."

"Certainly I am forced to take a real bath now", snorted Caroline.

"You will get away with it this time, but remember boys, never do such a thing to someone who does not expect it," instructed Darcy. The boys ran towards the carriage, whose passengers apparently were on their way back as well.

"Miss Eliza, do you always allow such things to happen with children under your custody?" coldly asked Caroline.

"I am most grieved about what has happened, Miss Bingley. I hope you are not going to be harsh on boys."

"Boys! Spoiled little brats, that is what they are. They should be punished." cried out she.

"Miss Bingley, they are not criminals, they come from pathological families where nobody pays them any attention and if they do it is with pitiful results. It took Jane's biggest effort to bring them to be so open, more than they will ever be with heir own parents. I do not intend to undermine what my sister has achieved so far just to put them back in the cage. If you will excuse me now, I will see that "the brats" do not ruin anything in the house.", proclaimed Elisabeth and she ran after the boys.

Once Caroline managed to close her mouth she uttered, "So it is all my fault? What a complete lack of decency and responsibility!!!! This is supposed to be a gentleman's daughter. Darcy do not even try to say anything. I have had enough for now."

Later that night, when kids have been finally settled to sleep, Jane went to the living room to apologise once more for the boys. "The victim" was all sweetness and courtesy; Oh no, of course it did not matter, it was just an old gown by Galiano, out of fashion any way...

Jane joined Elisabeth in the bed room to share with her doubts about the propriety of the situation.

"Lizzy, this was Galiano's dress!!! We could not afford to pay back for it! Miss Bingley has been so kind about the whole affair."

"Jane, do not get paranoid! The boys only threw a handful of leaves at her. I cannot appreciate her forgiveness because there is nothing she could forgive us. Even Mr. Darcy, to my surprise, treated the whole situation with a laugh."

"But what must she think of us?"

"I assure you there is but one thing we can do to improve her opinion on us and that is to disappear from this house as soon as possible."

"She has been treating me with such a civility that I cannot think it possible!"

"Maybe, but no doubt she has on her mind the regard and partiality her brother has shown towards you. We might be gentleman's daughters but we have neither fortune nor connections that could appeal to her and tempt her to at least pretend."

They were brought up the same way, but the differences of tempers of two sisters have been exceedingly noticeable. Elisabeth was hoping that Jane's naiveté is not going to make her suffer in the future, just as Jane was hoping Elisabeth's criticism is not going to deprive her of the faith in the man.

Meanwhile in the living room Caroline unsuccessfully tried to distract Darcy from a letter he was writing to his sister.

There were more convenient ways of communications, but Georgiana always claimed that the letters have been indemnity for his long absence. Although they have parted only a few days ago more eagerly than ever he indulged himself in the correspondence. After last years accident he tried to tighten the bond between himself and his sister. He wanted not only to be her guardian but also her confidant. Miss Bingley's raptures over the events of the day forced him eventually to put the letter aside. He treated himself with a glass of wine and walked towards the window. He stood there for a while gazing at the garden before he realised he was being questioned by the lady.

".... how many more evenings are we to spend in such a dull manner and in such a company?"

"What exactly do you mean Caroline? If I am not mistaken there are only the two of us in the room....", he saw that she did not get the one-liner in what he said and returned to his usual serious tone, "Forgive me for not executing my duties as your companion. I have neglected you for writing a letter to Georgiana."

"Did you not think Miss Bennet looked today like a savage when we have met her in the park?"

Taken by a surprise Darcy said, "Indeed you are wrong, I thought she looked rather well. Her complexion has been coloured and eyes brightened by the exercise."

Almost all her life Caroline Bingley wanted to be distinguished, noticed and agreed with. One has to admit that she was putting her schemes to life with a certain degree of proficiency, manipulating people as much as she wished, but Darcy was the last person she could execute her power on. Because Caroline was vain, she decided to keep some standard in her pursuing. She was almost sure of him and now this. It was time to go under arms. She did not realise that her voice was reaching unpleasant pitching tone, "Am I to understand that you do approve of such a behaviour and conduct? Then why not give up Georgiana to her custody?"

"Caroline, I do not approve of such behaviour, I have already said that, but sometimes I wish Georgiana was not so restrained and was more self confident. Maybe Miss Bennet's conduct is not entirely right, but at least she has the confidence of her own mind and opinion which I would so dearly like to see my sister execute."

"Considering that Miss Bennet's prime concern is keeping her job I suppose there is no place for such a comparison. Georgiana does not have to engage attention of her employer with whatever means she finds suitable."

On seeing his suspicious look Caroline thought it better to be silent on the subject of Elisabeth Bennet. She decided to recommend herself better by taking an eager interest in his sister. She always thought her a bit too shy and a bit too silent as for her age. Such features in someone so young are exceedingly unsettling - one has to be on guard all the time. Nonetheless it did not disturb her to praise all Georgiana's accomplishments. It is a strange thing but we all like to be praised and hear praises even from the mouth of the people we do not have in high esteem. Therefore Darcy listened with pleasure, after all he had his share in Georgiana's bringing up. He did not listen for a long time though when he started realising the impropriety and obsequiousness of Caroline words. He thanked her on Georgiana's behalf and wished her good night.

Section III

Elisabeth sighed with a relief when she closed the garage door behind her. It was Saturday afternoon and it seemed to be the longest weekend of her life. When they woke up in the morning they have been alarmed by one of the children not feeling quite well. Without a minute's hesitation Bingley called a doctor. It turned out to be a flu of not a serious nature, but still the same Jane was devastated; everything seemed to be going wrong. Some of the families were very reluctant in allowing their children to participate in the program at all. If this flu turned into something more serious, it could just give them another argument against the centre. Knowing how stressed she was about it, Bingley administered to her every wish. Elisabeth has been very content to see Jane being so admired and attended to. To help her out she decided, together with Bingley, that she would take the sick child home, together with two others who seemed to be most likely to be conveyed with the flu. Mama' would be really proud of me. It was a fact well known that Mrs. Bennet would not rest until at least some of her daughters were married. The times when one would do so for money were supposed to be gone, but fortune had played a trick on the Bennet sisters giving them a mother who seemed not to take notice of the fact and also had aspirations too big for the means. Their father was a gentleman and she would not endure them being "deprived" of the rightful position in the society. It was most fortunate that Mama' did not oppose us going to work, although I suppose she thought it rather a good occasion to catch a husband.

The kids were back with their families, Jane was well taken care of, Caroline far from the sight as well as Mr. Darcy, although the last one not for long. There was very limited possibility of anything spoiling the leftovers of the weekend. She climbed the cooper, heavily ornamented stairs to their flat, which was just above the centre. She has noticed that the leaves of the ivy entwining the stairs were turning red. The balcony armchair looked too tempting and Elisabeth could not refuse herself the pleasure of staying in the sun with a book. Her rest has been interrupted by the sudden appearance of her intimate friend, Charlotte Lucas. Elisabeth's vivacity has been well balanced by serenity and logic of her friend, but the news that the former had communicated seemed to disturb that balance eminently.

"Mr. .... Mr..... Collins? Charlotte, do you know what are you talking about? Marry him?"

"Dearest Lizzy, please do not fret so much. I have been brought up this way. Even if I wished I could never earn my living. Education is a real fancy when you have eight siblings. Of course my father could afford sending me to school, but I knew I was of immensely greater use at home. You are familiar with this saying "work dignifies"? If I am to become a baby sitter, I want them to be my own children. I do not have your beauty, disposition and determination to wait and refuse."

"Charlotte, I did not mean to offend..., to hurt you. If this is what you really want, I shall be happy for you, but by consenting to a marriage of prudence you gathered all your wit to commit the most insane and frantic act you could commit."

"Do you really consider it impossible for Mr. Collins to address his feelings to me? You see, Lizzy, no matter what happens I know I can handle life as parson's wife. He will always esteem and value me, maybe not always for the sort of qualities I would like to be valued for, but he will be showing me his continuous regard. I may say I deserve it, for with so many brothers and sisters there has never been enough of it for me. Each, even the most insipid and dependent life has its fictitious dignities, its future privileges and liberties for which it is worth fighting for and valuable. "

Elisabeth did not know what to answer, once Charlotte took the decision there was no way of persuading her.

"Common now, Mr. Collins attempts to please everybody are his way of fighting for the meaning in life. His obsequious civility and manners might prove to be a source of my quiet enjoyment in this marriage.", she tried to cheer up Elisabeth.

............."But for how long Charlotte, for how long?"....................

Elisabeth felt depressed after Charlotte's departure. There was nothing in the entire universe that could possibly force her into matrimony of this sort. Who knows, I might change my mind once I approach thirty...No, that will never happen, I promised papa last year after pitiful attempts by Mr. Collins that such a thought will never even come to consideration. I wish I could do something to save Charlotte from that plight...

The remains of the weekend passed without further disturbances except a certain degree of anticipation how things between Jane and Bingley were turning out. Her sister was back on Sunday evening and although she tried to retain her usual composure she could not hide the pleasure Bingley's company gave her. They are simply made for each other, thought Elisabeth looking out of the window just to catch a glimpse of the two at the house yard. Her heart was pained though - first Charlotte, now Jane, I shall soon be left all by myself. They would remain the most dear creatures, but she would have to share them with someone else, there would be no more such confidence and penitence. Elisabeth knew it would be cheating on her own not to admit that she longed for the feeling as well, the union in which you are not any longer the mistress of yourself, but you are the mistress of the whole new world.

With some precocity Elisabeth waited to face her employer on Monday and she was not surprised to find him as grim and reserved as before the weekend. Obviously only Bingleys have been worth the effort of acting decorous. She knew his detonator clock was running out of time. And finally, the bomb blew off.

"Miss Bennet, where are the papers from my desk?"

"I have moved them, sir. Miss Bingley was having some heavy work done in the reception, so I was forced to move to your office."

"And pray, tell me, where did you move them?"

"To the table by the window, sir."

"You moved them all, then?"

"Yes, certainly."

"And maybe you are in powers to tell me what has happened with Mr. Dashwood's dossier?"

"I have requested an ex parte inspection order from the court on Friday. "

"And by whom were you authorized to do so? Do you know what consequences this might bring? I already knew you usually do as you please, but this is my office and I decide on your share of the work. This is much too serious case for you to deal with. The smallest mistake might ruin the man's reputation, not to mention the work of many months," Darcy seemed to enjoy himself immensely, finding a fault in her. He looked like he was to continue, but before he managed to, he was interrupted.

"With all due respect, sir, apprenticeship in the legal profession that I have already had, entitles me to recognise such cases with a certain degree of proficiency. Besides that one was truly a classic example of ex parte inspection order. If you are afraid that my engagements at the university drew me away from practice, you are then mistaken. On signing my contract with Colonel Fitzwilliam, I certainly was not conscious of the fact you were hiring a secretary not a lawyer," she turned around and run out of his office.

On signing a contract with Fitzwilliam? What the hell he has got to do with it? He said he never saw her application. He claimed it was Bingley who has sent her here. Darcy started remembering that Fitzwilliam was acting quite strange when he was asking him about Miss Bennet. Now he felt obliged to go after her and find out what was happening in this damn office.

She was not to be found, but her file was concealed under pack of chocolate in colonel's desk. He opened it and started reading. Miss Elisabeth Bennet, born October 21, 1974 in Longbourn, the family estate...Good grief, the connections she has would certainly not recommend her for the job. He skipped some paragraphs and got to what really interested him - last three years. As he was proceeding through the accounts of her apprenticeship and the university engagements, he had major difficulties with retaining his composure. Some time later, a cheerful Colonel appeared in the sight.

"Where does that grave look come from, William?"

"I am going to a funeral," came sharp remark.

Colonel's consternation was evident, "Whose?!!!"

"Yours. And if you explain to me what was happening here over past few weeks, I might consider bringing you flowers!!!"

Fitzwilliam looked around and noticed that Miss Bennet was missing. He gasped, "You mean Elisabeth?"

"I see you are on quite good terms with the lady to call her that. Of course I am not talking of the ceramic elephant that Caroline managed to stick at the entrance! Who is she - a lawyer - I suppose?"

"Oh, you know!"

"Apparently not enough - she is a fully qualified lawyer that I have turned into a secretary. Nobody has seen her application, but she has managed to sign a contract with you..."

"Common, I knew you would never take her as a partner in the precious office of ours without her having proper acquaintances. She was too good to just let her go. I resolved to tell you that she is an apprentice, and once you had seen how good she is, I would tell you the truth."

"And so I have made a complete blockhead of myself, and it is all because of you!"

"If you were not acting your socks off it would not have happened. I must hurry to the court now and I believe you need to apologise to someone. Think it over, cousin. She is in the photocopying room.", and he was gone.

The door silently opened and Darcy saw Elisabeth bent over a photocopying machine. He approached her and forced a little cough, "Miss Bennet, I...". He did not manage to say more for she has turned violently on hearing his voice, forgetting about an open can of toner she was holding in her hands. With a terror in her eyes she watched the cloud of black dust spread all over his shirt and elegant suit. This time he did not have to force the cough - he was choking well enough by himself.

"I .....I.......", she was truly out of words. Inside she could just groan quietly, God, please, I cannot laugh out now, I have offended him well enough today.

Once he managed to draw a breath he claimed, "I guess we are even now?" He was indeed very eager for this "show" to finish. Whatever he tried to do that concerned the lady, he always made a fool out of himself. He went straight to the point, "I am sorry for my conduct, Elisabeth. I hope you will forgive me as neither of us is void of faults."

"Your fault is propensity to hate everybody," answered Elisabeth, as for her, his apologies did not seem quite to the point, Why did he bother at all?

"And yours is to willfully misunderstand them." Darcy was decided she should not have the last word, but now the very instance that the words slipped his mouth he regretted loosing his temper. It was evident from the way that Miss Bennet smiled that it did not really matter to her what was his opinion of her. There was an awkward silence for a moment on both parts. Becoming quite uneasy Darcy resolved, "I guess I should change. I hope you will get back to work soon. I will see that your things will be moved to the room next to Colonel's."

As he proceeded to the door he was met by Caroline. She was eager to express her joy of meeting him more elaborately, but seeing his ruined clothes she decided to keep away and scorn him for such sojourn. If it has such an effect on Caroline, I might ask Elisabeth to do it every day. With a sudden alarm he realised what he has just called her - since when was she Elisabeth to him?