Part 1: Edward's Actions

His sister was unpardonable, Edward thought as he entered Norland. The widow and the grieving daughters did not deserve this harsh, if not cruel, treatment from his sister. . . to be degraded to the level of visitors at their own home! He refused Fanny's many requests for visits to Norland because he did not believe he could meet the Dashwood ladies with an honest heart. He was painfully embarrassed with the numerous communications coming from his sister and avoided giving firm dates until she became quite threatening with her words. And knowing Mrs. John Dashwood as he did, she will carry them out. He dusted the dirt from his traveling cloak and entered the main house of Norland. The estate was lovely and the scene is unparalleled in his inexperienced eyes, but there was a hush here that caused one's spirit to plummet instead of soaring. Once again he felt the loss of the father and husband and grieved for the ladies. The servant that greeted him though woke him from his reverie. She was outright hostile to his person and was almost to the point of insolence. Not knowing what he had done to deserve such animosity he quickly (and rightfully) added this anger to his sister's treatment of the staff. Oh Fanny look what you have done! Now the servants even dislike you. . .

He was led to the right wing and soon gazed into his room. Edward was in some surprise for the room was indeed elegant. However it was without a doubt a lady's room. Turning to the rebellious girl he questioned her, "Why am I here? This room obviously. . . "

"Belonged to Miss Elinor Dashwood, until Mrs. Dashwood removed her to another wing. The Ladyship thought you might enjoy the view. "

He never heard the word 'ladyship' uttered with such disdain. Grimacing he gazed at the view, and it was lovely, but this could hardly stand as it was. "I believe Miss Dashwood should return here, for it is after all a lady's chamber. Please show me to a room where I would truly feel comfortable staying. "

The servant gazed at him with piercing eyes but he did not break his stare. Finally satisfied of the gentleman's character the girl led him with greater friendliness to the guest's quarters where a sumptuous room always stood ready for an unexpected visitor.

Thanking the servant he ordered a bath and sat down on the bed, miserable already, and he hasn't seen his sister yet! Fanny chased the sister out of her own room so he can have a view. How could she be related to him? But the truth was how could he be related to his family? If there was ever a case for changeling, he was the prime evidence. He was quiet, unintrusive and to be considered tolerable regarding his features. However upon introduction and long acquaintance, the gentleman without fail improved himself with his honesty, open and fine affection.

Characteristics which vexed Mrs. Ferrars a great deal. His mother and sister were very determined to see him stand a place in history, though they did not know how to achieve such distinction, and Edward had no desire to comply with their foolishness. So they would have to find consolation with his younger brother and help him to achieve this monumental greatness.

His brother Robert was the exact opposite of Edward. Shallow and eternally self-centered the younger brother thought Edward to be totally unacceptable figure in society and mocked his own blood at every occasion the man could grasp. His words were not missed with Edward, but the oldest Ferrars had so little care of his younger brother that he didn't spare a thought.

But this, to see others being inflicted by his family, made him ashamed and penitent though he had done no wrong. The water came and he was glad to be rid of the dust of the road and his more depressing thoughts. Taking the bath and readying his soul to confront Fanny and berate her for her behavior, he marched downstairs to see her with determination for an immediate confrontation. However Edward barely got through the first set of stairs before falling and tumbling down the rest. He finally ended at the bottom steps painfully nursing his shoulder. Shocked into silence and glad that no one witnessed his clumsy behavior he turned to find a book laid as a trap in the middle of the stairs. It was a tiny volume of a historical study of the Roman military tactics in Gaul. Confused as to why the volume was on the staircase and not on a shelf somewhere, he flipped through the pages to find the owner.

He heard a child's voice cry out, "That's mine! Give it back!"

He turned around, immediately regretting the sudden move as his shoulder ached in pain, Edward spotted the loveliest child he had ever seen. She was petite and had incredible eyes to match her rich-colored hair. This must be Margaret, he thought, and then remembered that the Dashwood ladies are considered great beauties in these parts. If this little girl is any indication of the older ladies' charms, they must be very beautiful indeed. However this imp just sent him sprawling down the stairs on every body part of his, save his feet, and he was in no mood to humor a child's lie.

"Young lady, I sincerely doubt this book belongs to you. However if you are the person responsible for laying it on the stairs, I suggest you put the book where it belongs. " His voice was curt and even foreboding.

The response though was not the one he sought. "You fell didn't you?" she crowed with absolute delight. He stared at the child in shock. If he had broken his neck she would be positively dancing! "But the book is mine!" the child declared again, and Edward, to prove her wrong, flipped through until he saw the inscription,

"Dear Margaret, I still believe this is not proper reading for a lady, but since you requested it I cannot refuse. Happy birthday my dear daughter. "

He stared at the scribbled writing, blushing to his heart. It seemed that he was destined to be the idiot in Norland. Without words he handed the book to her properly humbled by a mere slip of a girl.

She noticed his behavior and felt sorry for him. He really wasn't as horrible and terrible as Fanny was. That woman was an absolute witch, and until now she thought Edward Ferrars to be a total troll. But this man sitting in front of her still nursing his bruised shoulders looked more like a dejected priest than baby-gobbling monster. In fact he looked positively sad. She sat down next to him and tried to entertain the guest. And Edward, appreciating her obvious kindness to his predicament, behaved in his usual warm manner and soon won himself a new ally for this battlefield called Norland.

Suddenly the girl raised her head like a deer then ran up the stairs quicker than a girl should be capable of. Edward knew the reason for Margaret's disappearance, and his conclusion was confirmed when Fanny came through the door from the right. He braced himself in spite of the pain, but her sister's surprise look almost made him burst out laughing.

"Edward my dear brother what are you doing sitting on the stairs reading a book?"

He best decided to not give a reply and manipulated her to an empty room. There he gave her his harsh words and judgments as to her awful behavior to the true family of Norland though she bristled. And he continued his lecture until he was sure that she would no longer abuse her privilege in this house. He may not be able to influence this creature but he can still shame her into a more appropriate behavior.

Unbeknownst to himself and Fanny, Margaret was outside the door listening to the heated argument and enjoying the conversation immensely. Edward Ferrars definitely is not a troll.

Part 2: Edward Falls In Love

Edward's ignorance in the real lessons of this world will come back to haunt him.

After the heated argument both sides felt awkward when dinner was served. Edward noted with dismal heart that Fanny had already taken the seat reserved for the lady of the house. He saw Mrs. Dashwood's distress at her recent loss and modulated his behavior and voice to inflict the least amount of notice of himself upon the lady.

Margaret was a good indication of the sisters' beauties Edward thought. He dare not raise his eyes to them for more than seconds at a glance, for both Miss Dashwood and Miss Marianne Dashwood were indeed uncommonly lovely. Marianne should pose for a portrait, he thought, and knew that such a portrait would make the artist famous in London if not Paris. But Marianne's beauty was frightening to someone like Edward. Such a beautiful girl deserves certain type of gentleman and Edward believed himself so far removed from that crowd that he could not even begin a normal course of conversation with her. What made it even worse was the obvious animosity flowing from the middle daughter, though he could hardly blame her indignant and silent protest against the injustice rained on her and her family's head. But the oldest sister treated him with gentle sympathy and her conversation he felt comfortable enough to follow. She neither demanded nor requested information about Town, which he felt much gratitude because he simply hated London and tried to spend as much time in the country, in order to spend the least in Town.

The next day the story of how he refused to oust Miss Dashwood from her room circled the estate, and even Marianne forgave his unfortunate connection to his sister. A fact Elinor wisely reminded Marianne that he could not be justly blamed for!

For the first time in Edward's adult life he was happy spending time visiting Fanny, though she was the last reason for his happiness. He met with Mrs. Dashwood and in such occasions showed such consideration and care to the grieving lady that the mother slowly severed his connection with Fanny. An act that was indeed kind for Fanny was growing more intolerable every day.

And the lady soon grew fond of the soft-spoken and amiable brother Edward. Elinor noticing the goodness of this young gentleman, soon accepted his company into hers. So hours were spent in companionable silence or some discussions that to Marianne's mind would be considered dull, while it suited to Elinor's and Edward's inclinations perfectly. Margaret who declared Edward her Partner, because she saw him first, took certain time to play with him and, to the Dashwood ladies unending amusement, the young gentleman complied in every game, often bringing out unplanned laughter from every witness. Even John Dashwood was greatly amused by Edward and Margaret and was sincerely grateful with the gentleman's presence in Norland. Margaret never told anyone of the argument she witnessed between the brother and sister, though she knew that such message could bring only good opinions of 'Dear Edward' as she named him. Even the servants saw the clear difference between Fanny who was not the lady of the house (no matter where she sat at the dinner table) and her older brother. And treated him with the respect that he deserved, which meant a hot cup of tea at the best moments and the choice of cake when served.

All these preferential treatments with such congenial company and in a setting such as Norland would bring complete happiness to a simple soul as Edward, and the young man reveled in it. But what delighted him most was when Miss Elinor Dashwood sought his company, and it pleased him deeply to hear her voice call his name. This was followed by even more pleasant interlude of walking the grounds and gardens of Norland or even a cozy chat with the lady. What he did not realize was that such happiness would be gotten sitting on a field in a rain storm outside of Bristol as long as Miss Elinor Dashwood would accompany him.

That such love would present itself to Edward Ferrars was inconceivable to the young gentleman, because he himself have never been in love until his time with Miss Elinor Dashwood. He certainly had no knowledge of such feelings, growing up in his household and witnessed even less in the society that he was forced to circle in. Thus he was never aware that what he felt for the oldest Dashwood sister was and indeed recognized as love. And this lack of training would make him indeed blind to such feelings reciprocated by anyone unless the lady went to her knees and declared her emotions. But he was happy and vastly contented with his present predicament save for Fanny's presence in his awaking hours in Norland.

But the others were not as naive and it was Mrs. Dashwood who saw the mutual affection between her oldest and Mr. Edward Ferrars. She was indeed happy in this match, for he was to her judgment a kind and gentle young man that suited her daughter's tastes to a great degree. And his treatment of her person and her daughters could never be faulted. His patience with Margaret's constant antics, his endearing awkwardness with Marianne all pointed towards a character that Mrs. Dashwood could like and respect. And she trusted her Elinor's judgment above all, for this daughter had intelligence bred with control and wisdom that the mother knew she herself lacked to a degree.

This secluded bit of heaven was to break apart in the next few weeks for Edward.

Part 3: Edward Accepts

Edward realizes what true love is but has already condemned himself to deny it from his presence forever.

Edward sat by himself in the sitting parlor deep into the night, finally acknowledging what was so heavily occupying his mind. Earlier that day Elinor came back with bouquets of flowers for her family and even one for her brother John Dashwood, but none for Edward, and this lack of token stung him deeply. Of course such offerings were totally unacceptable for a single lady to give to a gentleman such as himself, but as he sat there with the Dashwood ladies, he felt his heart bend itself as she handed those lovely presents to everyone, diminishing the group until none was left, and his hands still empty. A silly trifle, but an expression of tender love and eloquent gift for which Edward was rightfully deprived.

He could not believe the length it disappointed him and the sadness he felt when he saw her hand the last collection of posies, roses and forget-me-nots to Margaret and not even a single daisy left for himself. There he finally realized to what great degree Miss Elinor Dashwood influenced his happiness. And how foolish he was to dream that she would reciprocate a sliver of that tender emotion called love. She was a beautiful, cultured and talented lady carved with wit, intelligence and general kindness. Such a lady deserved a man far better than he and could not love such an ordinary man like himself. After all, does he have wit of conversation or fashion? Would he recognize a verse from Cowper or even the delicate sketches that are in such fashion now-a-days?

However he could hold no animosity against Elinor, for her exceedingly good treatment of himself in Norland negated any ill feelings of rejection and disappointment he might claim. In fact the fault laid on his feet alone, for he was the fool that trounced in the court thinking the Queen might love him. She never encouraged him nor gave him false hopes, leading him astray, but she gave him something precious that no one else had ever thought to bestow upon his humble person. She granted him the knowledge of true love, a feeling so delicate in its existence yet fierce in its fight for life that overwhelmed his whole being when he was in the presence of Miss Dashwood.

Edward was happy when she was, he was contented when she closed her eyes and enjoyed the sun. When she delighted in a passage in some work he invariably found himself moved by the same words. He found his heart's true rhythm here in Norland, and the lady did not even know it.

Over weeks she quietly became the focus of his whole being, and he would risk the wrath of his own mother's adamant disapproval of such a match should he have believed that the lady could return his emotions. But he firmly thought that such a lady could never look at him with an eye more than friendship and pity. It was his heart that he risked alone here, and his alone will break when their time is over. But the emotion was so sweet and genuine that Edward was willing to bear the great pain and regret of loss for one more day in her presence.

Then he thought of Lucy. And her shortcomings when compared to Elinor Dashwood's person were so great that he blushed to think himself engaged to that girl. He was nineteen and easily flattered, and Lucy did confess almost on her knees how much his love meant to her, and he believed her to tell the truth. But when compared to this relationship of only friendship to Miss Dashwood and the 'violent love' he was suppose to be feeling for Lucy, the truth came to him with a painful force. He felt pleasant around the girl while with Miss Dashwood he felt complete. That he could never turn his back to Miss Elinor Dashwood to make Lucy Steele happy. This was true love, and not the trifle he shared with Lucy Steele. But it was hardly just to condemn the girl of the same stupidity that he was guilty of. She might love him with the same strong emotion as he does for Miss Dashwood, and Lucy might hang to his words with the same desperation that he felt towards Miss Elinor Dashwood. But unlike the honorable lady, he led Lucy to believe that he felt the same! The shame of such blatant lie and to fool another because he was so naive and ill-judged made him deeply ashamed. But even in that regret he felt the strength of his emotion towards Miss Dashwood and did not deny it entrance to his thoughts.

He did not sleep the rest of the night and came to decision as the servants bustled about. While he was here in Norland and Miss Dashwood was present, he could indulge in just a bit of his heart's desire. To taste little of what will be denied to him for his whole entire career could not be a sin! If he had known that Miss Dashwood did save a rose intended for him, but at the last moment, fearing of betraying too much, kept it in her basket hidden from his view, and that it rested within her favorite novel, Edward Ferrars would have completed any task necessary to insure his happiness with her.

That very afternoon Miss Dashwood was making a pencil sketch of her sister's exquisite head and showed him her finished work. He admired it, but unfortunately his words were lacking the ornate description the model desired, and he was soon silenced by Marianne's romantic phrases. Feeling embarrassed as he always did around someone so strong-natured as Marianne, he soon thought he insulted the artist, the model and the whole audience. Excusing himself, he barely made it out of the sitting room in dignity.

Elinor was much vexed for he was her next model, but she suffered her disappointment in silence. Later when he returned the ladies had taken a walk in the gardens and he flipped through the many portraits Miss Dashwood had done. Her drawing hand was fine indeed, and he really did appreciate her talent. As he admired her work he found in the last pages of the collection a sketch done to her likeness. It was complete though lacked color, but to Edward it was perfect. Without thinking, and violating every social code, he ripped that sketch of Miss Elinor Dashwood out and folded it with care into his pocket. He had no remembrances of her save what was in his mind and heart, surely fate would not hold a grudge if he had one small thing to hold him by when he was alone again. He stared through the rest of the sketches and admired her work in silence. If he turned his head towards the door left ajar he would have seen the pale and furious face of his sister Fanny.

Part 4: The Dashwoods Leave. . .

As the saying goes Never Come Between a Mother and Her Children! And Edward's behavior towards Fanny changes dramatically as the Dashwood ladies take leave of Norland

Fanny could not contain her anger, so she entered her chamber with some speed. How dare he? He is the oldest of the Ferrars children and will inherit everything! The name, the money and the honor! And to foolishly attach himself to that girl Elinor whose family has but 500 a year! Fanny had conveniently forgotten that she was the cause of that particular sad situation of the Dashwood ladies. She could barely tolerate the connection to such low society and will not under any chance have one of them marry her brother. It was insupportable!

The sister then immediately dispatched a letter to her mother giving hints of the going-ons in Norland, knowing the response will be damning and permanent. Meanwhile she will have to make sure Edward's exposure to Elinor Dashwood's presence is to be kept under close scrutiny. Set in her mind she went to Edward's room and saw that its occupant was elsewhere. He was so simple sometimes she thought as she reached for his leather case and immediately discovered the sketch. Placing it inside the case again she made sure her presence was not noticed in the room and left furtively.

However she was not as good as the Master Spy of Norland, and Margaret was watching with some curiosity. The girl also took a glance in the bag and saw the sketch to her great delight. Placing it in the bag as the previous violator had done, Margaret ran to her room and planned furiously in her young mind. The Witch must be defeated, though Margaret had no clue as to why Fanny did what she did. But she wanted adventure and this was her grand chance to not only have one but wreck havoc upon Fanny Dashwood, a great treat and a noble cause indeed!

No one else, not even Edward, was aware of the great intrigue going on in Norland, and Margaret never told her family what had transpired that day. Fanny began to request her brother's presence more and more in her private company, using the excuses of remodeling the estate and family matters. However she asked with great politeness and sincerity so much that Edward truly believed she needed his personal opinion and guidance. Being a good older brother the young gentleman fulfilled her wishes and soon his time with Elinor began to diminish. Elinor Dashwood being too much of a lady and seeing the brother and sister together, did not question the change in Edward Ferrars' attitude towards her and kept quiet, though it distressed her deeply. She had silently formed an attachment to the gentleman and missed his obliging company with every passing hour.

Mrs. Dashwood was hopeful even then that the two might come together in the end and form a happy pair. She was thinking such happy thoughts by herself in the sitting room when Fanny entered.

"Good afternoon Mrs. Dashwood. That is a lovely piece of work you have there. I do wish I could sew like that but my fingers have never been obliging enough to my taste. "

Surprised and wary at Fanny's kind tone Mrs. Dashwood gave a glance towards her daughter-in-law. The lady took that as an invitation and gracefully sat down to continue her conversation.

"But dear Edward is truly talented and I am more than content to be lacking in much personal success when I have a brother such as him. " Mrs. Dashwood did give a kind smile then and complimented the sister, even though she never personally witnessed any spectacular facets of Edward's character, save that he was the extreme opposite of his sister.

"And I worry for him so! Oh Mrs. Dashwood be grateful you do not have a son! My mother and I worry every waking day that he would fall into some woman's hands! The kind that would grab him and charm him because he is the first and to inherit the most. Such vile creatures do exist you know, though I'm sure your time at Norland prevented you from seeing such evil. But those women are out there and will do their most cunning to draw him in. "

Mrs. Dashwood felt her blood freeze. That wicked creature was damning Elinor in front of me! How dare she? How dare she speak of my most lovely and gentle daughter in this vile manner! All pretense was thrown out by this emotional mother, and she raised those dark eyes to Fanny, and the lady felt herself suddenly in fear as she saw those mother's eyes aim at her with unconcealed venom.

But the sister continued, "However my mother and I are quite determined to marry him well. London is filled with the most accomplished ladies who will do his reputation justice. And whose talents and achievements will equal his. Yes, we are quite determined, Mrs. Dashwood. " The two women now faced each other in full confrontation both determined to win this war.

"I do understand your fear, Dear Fanny, for I too know of women who care too much for rank and reputation. And who are willing to sacrifice everything and everyone in order to achieve certain status in society. However those women are foolish and not worth a drop of consideration, for they are vain and selfish creatures who in good society are seen as such and be shunned. They may not be told that they are viewed with such contempt and disapproval but fear not. In good and honorable company they are considered the truly lowest of the low. I know Edward is wise and kind so he is quite safe. And I am sure he is well aware of such designs and will shun them if they ever brush against his person. Oh dear, I think that's Margaret running in the garden. Please, excuse me. " Her voice never shook and her tone was deep and commanding. And when she left to walk her temper out in the garden, Fanny was left in total anger and frustration.

Mrs. Dashwood was now determined to remove Elinor from such unpleasant person and society. No matter what it costed she will take her family elsewhere. Oh wretched Fanny!

A letter arrived for Edward the very next day and it was indeed a harshly worded summons from his mother. Fanny, happy to see his distress was determined to chase him out of Norland that very afternoon. "Edward! Mother calls you and she needs you by her side. There is nothing here you can do now so go to her and keep her company. Perhaps you can even now meet that Miss Morton!" Her tone was most friendly, even cooing but it did not fool Edward.

He stared at her and realized it was all planned. Fanny never needed him. What a fool he was. She only deprived him of Elinor's company and was probably the cause behind this letter from mother. Damn her. Damn the whole family to reduce him to this wretched pawn in their constant conquest to earn fame and title. And damn himself for letting them weave their marionette strings around his person. I could have spent hours with Elinor, he thought, ignoring his sister completely. I could have earned myself some more happy memories! Instead they were stolen from me by my own sister, and now I am forced to go to London.

"Mother can wait, Fanny. She always throws these tantrums then calms herself within few days. I do not know the cause of this latest temper, but I do not wish to be in her presence until she is of more suitable company. " His voice did not hide his contempt at her and her designs.

"Edward, the Dashwood ladies are not of proper company. . . "

"Never speak their names in front of me Fanny. They are truly not our company for they stand above us in such manner that we may never be able to raise ourselves to their level! And take care, for John would not totally approve of your opinions, and I would hate to see any discord between the two of you. Especially since you are a Dashwood and now the mistress of Norland. " His threat was clear and his temper was visible. Fanny in fear of being outnumbered and erupting her brother's fury (which she had never witnessed), closed her tongue and dropped her gaze. Edward turned abruptly and left her there alone.

Barely controlling his gasps he walked around the garden again and again like a horse in training and muttered words not suited for polite ears. He knew he had to leave and within days, but until then Fanny would disappear from his company. He did not know that a letter came that very day for Mrs. Dashwood from her cousin Sir John Middleton. The gentleman wrote to offer her a cottage on his estate for the Dashwood's use, and the mother still suffering under the argument with Fanny, immediately dispatched a letter of gratitude and acceptance of the offer. The sisters were told of her decision, and by dinner time the mother had the great joy of transferring the information to the rest. Everyone was stunned, most of all Edward. To have his plans foiled so quickly and by Mrs. Dashwood!

John exclaimed "Devonshire! Are you, indeed, going there? So far from hence! and to what part of it?"

"It is but a cottage, " the mother explained, "but I hope to see many of my friends in it. A room or two can easily be added; and if my friends find no difficulty in traveling so far to see me, I am sure I will find none in accommodating them. "

Mrs. Dashwood did offer an invitation of visits towards John and his wife, but knew that the lady will never visit them and was personally glad of the lack of enthusiasm in Fanny's voice.

Elinor refused to give a glance towards Edward in fear that her distress would surface, but her mother noting her oldest's discomfort turned to Edward. "Dear Edward, please come by and visit us as often as you wish. Your company is held dear by all of us and though we knew you for so little time we hope to grow much fondness with you when we are in Barton. " The offer was genuine and truly kind. Edward felt his eyes sting for the goodness of it and in spite of his sister's furious glances he accepted the offer with a grateful heart.

The next day the Dashwoods began packing articles in their possession. Fanny was watching this with great interest and mused sadly at her brother, "Marianne is taking that pianoforte. How sad, I mean Edward why would they need such a lovely article of furniture for where they are going?" He did not even give that indecent thought the good grace of a reply.

Edward in the spirit of absence began to pack his own and Fanny could not be more delighted. When she knew that he was done packing and absent from his room she trespassed one more time and on this occasion took his beloved sketch from the bag. He will not need this thing while he is in London. And it would be best if he forgot all about Elinor, for Mother will make sure he never leaves her sight again! She went downstairs and threw it in the fireplace for servants to sweep up in the morning.

The Master Spy of Norland was quite aware of what Fanny was up to, and in spite of all the excitement around her the girl was greatly focused on the quest to foil Fanny's actions. She was watching Fanny from the great tree, the servants' stairs and behind secret doors from the first time she saw Fanny remove that sketch of Elinor from Edward's belongings. And now it was time for action! She dusted the sketch and made sure there was no damage to the paper. Then she ran up the staircase and into Edward's room before anyone noticed her peculiar behavior. Margaret immediately placed it in its original container and this time took the servants' stairs to the sitting parlor and no one was the wiser.

The Dashwood ladies left in two weeks and Edward also left that afternoon. His farewell to his brother was genuine but it was very awkward for him to feel anything but relief to be out of Fanny's grasp. As his carriage wheeled to London under his constant disapproval he gazed at that sketch the whole length of the trip.

Edward did not know how he will accomplish this but he was most determined to visit Barton Park.

Part 5 -- Returning To Lucy Steele

Author's Note: The character of Lucy Steele is difficult to imagine and harder to develop. She is uneducated but very adapt at reading people and playing upon their emotions. She is also quite capable of carrying out her every design with very little regard for any other human being's emotions. Elinor's estimation of Lucy's person is the best in the whole novel but I always imagined this girl to be a lot more dangerous than what was visible so brace yourselves.

After months of staying by his mother's side, Edward performed the difficult task of not being married off nor joining the legal profession. The mother was greatly vexed at this and was frustrated enough to send him out of her sight which was his primary goal. He dutifully visited Norland but left the place in short time, for he knew what he had to do. He immediately set out for Longstaple and Miss Lucy Steele. Edward was welcomed with simple cordiality by Mr. Pratt and once again felt guilty of the deception he was practicing upon this man. However when he saw Lucy approach him, he felt a new batch of that miserable emotion. She was pretty enough girl, plain but vivacious. And in his youth he was captivated by it and her absolute love that she declared was his alone. But now between them stood his memory of Miss Elinor Dashwood and she misted over the real form of his undeclared fiancée.

Lucy Steele stared at him and immediately knew there was a change. His eyes saw her but he was somewhere else. Their whole conversation was not only dull but awkward, for Edward was distracted by something he would not name, and Lucy began to fear.

And Lucy Steele hated fear. But She hated the uncertainties in life more. Thus her whole life's goal was to procure solidity that can only be achieved by marrying well. Four years ago Edward came into her life, and she saw that precious chance. Not losing a moment and knowing the full extent of the young gentleman's weaknesses she used the perfect words, the exact attitude and flattery to win an engagement from him. Even though she was frustrated at waiting so long, she knew that he could stand to lose his inheritance from his mother if she ever found out about their attachment. So Lucy waited patiently while she believed Edward was working to soften his family's opinion of her. And she was confidant that when she was introduced she would, with constant work and flattery, win the Ferrars to her person. She could not fail. She must not fail.

But that afternoon left her greatly disturbed, and she was determined to discover what had stolen Edward's attentions away from her. The next evening Edward dined with them and the conversation turned towards Norland and his sister's new status.

The uncle inquired about the Dashwood ladies, and within four sentences Lucy Steele knew what had taken Edward's attentions.

Miss Elinor Dashwood seemed by all his accounts the most beautiful, accomplished and intelligent lady who is also a talented artist. Lucy betrayed no emotions and sat there as pleasant as she always pretended to be. But her smiles never reached her eyes and her gentle words held an edge. If Edward was not so taken by the subject of the conversation, he would have realized this, but Miss Elinor Dashwood's power over him was complete. And Lucy at the end of the meal also recognized this fact.

She ascertained the whereabouts of the Dashwood ladies and was already aware of her distant relations to one Mrs. Jennings who was the mother of Lady Middleton, the mistress of Barton Park located four miles from Exeter. Now she must procure some invitations to visit Barton Park and end Miss Elinor Dashwood's connections to Edward. It did not matter whether the lady reciprocated any feelings towards Edward. Lucy must damage whatever was between the two to the point that neither can return to their original feelings for each other. When this was achieved, then and only then, can the girl feel some security again.

The days passed pleasantly enough but Edward felt the lack throughout his whole time at Longstaple and could bear it no longer. He sought out Lucy and sat with her in the garden.

"Lucy I cannot even begin to express my sorrow at the current situation we are in. I am ashamed to have held onto you as such. . . "

"Oh dear Edward do not fret so. I love you beyond any consideration I have for myself and I have complete faith in you to do the best thing for all of us. " She whispered to him in all her sincerity and vulgarity of emotions.

Edward heard the excess in her tone and blanched. It no longer rose any other emotion from him than wonder that he ever felt enough to engage himself to this girl. "But I must confess Lucy I cannot for all my tries see how to make this pass. . . I am finding my family's resolution for me to marry a lady of note quite determined. In spite of all my protests and pleas, they are not heeding one word. Lucy, should you wish to be free from our engagement please do not hesitate to declare such. I cannot in good faith keep your hopes, when I have so little. " And L-rd help me he thought I have no hope to marry anyone but the one who will never be mine.

"Do you not love me anymore Edward? If this is why you are doing this then at least be honest while you're breaking my heart. I have never wavered and never faltered in my devotion to you! But if you feel that you can never be. . . " she ended in a sob.

"Dear Lucy, it's not love. My family's will is unbreakable and unless I dissolve all my connections with them I cannot see a way where we may marry. " He could not bring himself to tell her he no longer loved her and never did. She gently took his hand and placed a ring on his finger. It contained a curl of her hair. He was shocked.

"Take this for me Edward and think of me. Know that I will never abandon you no matter what may come to pass. I will wait for you my dearest for you are that my darling friend. Go and do what you must but whatever happens, please tell me with your own words for I rather hear it from you than from some ugly gossip. "

She left him sitting there in the garden knowing what torment she had caused upon his very soul. She immediately began to plan her excursion to Exeter when she entered the house.

Edward left two hours later his person torn with what he wished and what was his duty towards Lucy. And in that black mood Edward was riding to London when suddenly he changed his mind. He ordered the carriage to turn and head for Barton Park. He could not quiet his mind and desired to gaze upon that fair face again to determine if she did indeed feel anything for him or was he damning his soul for a wishful thinking?

He rested his carriage in a nearby village and rode to what was the directions given to Barton Cottage when he spied two familiar figures walking on the lane. Part of him wished to flee right at that moment but the other rejoiced in somber happiness at the familiar gait. Suddenly one figure began to run towards him and he stopped to dismount from his ride to greet Miss Dashwood. But the figure was not Elinor for it was Marianne who greeted him with real enthusiasm. While Elinor stood back and watched this reunion Edward felt his heart quietly die within his chest. And this time even his cordial and kind manner could not hide his disappointment.

He fervently wished he practiced self-control in Norland for the pain he felt was too much. Miss Dashwood's manner can not be faulted and her greetings to him were warm and genuine but there was a distance that was not in existence in Norland. And how could he expect it to be the same? How could he in all fairness hope that he would see love from her when there never was on her side? It was all in his imagination from Norland to Longstaple. But no more for he saw the pained truth in front of him proven real by her manners and words. Even Marianne seemed more genuinely happy to see him than Elinor and he fell into silence and quiet despair over this. However Marianne began to quickly question him about his whereabouts for the last few weeks and was stunned to find that he was in Devonshire for a while.

"A fortnight!" She cried out when he told her the truth and Edward immediately began to regret it. He mentioned his stay in Plymouth and was distressed that she might ask for more information. The spectre of Lucy Steele would be too much for him to bear at that moment.

"Have you been lately in Sussex?" Elinor asked in her fine voice.

"I was at Norland about a month ago. " And he dearly wished they were still there as they had been and what seemed now to him like a delusion of a fevered man.

"And how does dear, dear Norland look?" Marianne asked passionately.

"Dear, dear Norland probably looks much as it always does at this time of the year. The woods and walks thickly covered with dead leaves. " Even deep in his anguish he heard the gentle laughter in her words and could not help but smile a little.

"Oh! With what transporting sensation have I formerly seen them fall! How have I delighted, as I walked, to see them driven in showers about me by the wind! What feelings have they, the season, the air altogether inspired! Now there is no one to regard them. They are seen only as a nuisance, swept hastily off, and driven as much as possible from the sight. " Edward was partially surprised that anyone could have such romantic feelings for dead leaves but he was well aware of Marianne's passions and her inability control them.

"It is not every one who has your passion for dead leaves. "

Obviously Elinor was also quite well aware of this fault.

"No, my feelings are not often shared, not often understood. But sometimes they are. Now, Edward, here is Barton Valley. Look at it, and be tranquil if you can. Look at those hills. Did you ever see their equals? To the left is Barton Park, amongst those woods and plantations. You may see the end of the house. And there, beneath that farthest hill, which rises with such grandeur, is our cottage. " He did glance and the scene was pretty but somehow he could not phrase his words to suit Marianne and his reply once again irked her as they invariably did in Norland.

"It is a beautiful country, but these bottoms must be dirty in winter. " As soon as those words fell from his lips he regretted them.

"How can you think of dirt, with such objects before you?" She questioned in a hurt tone.

"Because, among the rest of the objects before me, I see a very dirty lane. " He replied with the obvious and was gratified with a smiling look from Elinor.

"How strange!" Marianne commented not understanding how Edward could feel so little with Elinor and the magnificent scene before him.

"Have you an agreeable neighbourhood here? Are the Middletons pleasant people?" He queried.

The answer was brutal and direct. "No, not all. We could not be more unfortunately situated. "

"Marianne! How can you say so? How can you be so unjust? They are a very respectable family, Mr. Ferrars; and towards us have behaved in the friendliest manner. Have you forgot, Marianne, how many pleasant days we have owed to them?" Elinor lectured her in all seriousness.

"No. Nor how many painful moments. " Marianne mumbled. And the party became awkward again for the whole group was laboring under their own unhappiness whose relief seemed nowhere to be found.

Part 6 -- Barton Cottage

Edward tries to find happiness in Barton Cottage but Longstaple invades even this lovely place.

The three made an uncomfortable group to the cottage where Mrs. Dashwood received Edward with a welcome though she was very surprised at his appearance. She immediately began to treat him with the sweet and genuine care that she once had in Norland and Edward was glad to see it. His heart was still desperately struggling with his sense of honor but Mrs. Dashwood's unwavering kindness to him soon made him feel genuinely welcomed in Barton Cottage. Elinor and Marianne seeing him thaw quickly saw the man they once knew with great familiarity in Norland and Elinor welcomed him again with her own heart. Margaret knew that something was amiss when she greeted him but wisely kept her voice silent. Her mother scolded her only a day before that unless a lady has something proper to say, she best discuss the subject of the weather.

Dinner was a simple fare but the company made the meal the most enjoyable one Edward had in a long time. "What are Mrs. Ferrars's views for you at present, Edward? Are you still to be a great orator in spite of yourself?" Questioned Mrs. Dashwood convinced that his mother was responsible for his trodden spirits. "No. I hope my mother is now convinced that I have no more talents than inclination for a public life. " His voice reflected that hard-won truth.

"But how is your fame to be established? for famous you must be to satisfy all your family; and with no inclination for expense, no affection for expense, no affection for strangers, no profession, and no assurance, you may find it a difficult matter. " Her question was sharp but the edges were blunted with her obvious humor and he could not help but smile in return.

"I shall not attempt it. I have no wish to be distinguished; and have every reason to hope I never shall. Thank Heaven! I cannot be forced into genius and eloquence. " There he said it. Revealed how plain a man he was and his ambitions to be even less.

"You have no ambition, I well know. Your wishes are all moderate. " Mrs. Dashwood still teased him in her warm tone.

"As moderate as those of the rest of the world, I believe. I wish, as well as every body else, to be perfectly happy; but, like every body else, it must be in my own way. Greatness will not make me so. "

He found the most unlikely ally in that statement as Marianne agreed with him. "Strange that it would! What have wealth or grandeur to do with happiness?"

"Grandeur has but little, but wealth has much to do with it. " The wise Elinor gently corrected Marianne.

Her sister's response was immediate and with her usual passion. "Elinor, for shame! Money can only give happiness where there is nothing else to give it. Beyond a competence, it can afford no real satisfaction, as far as mere self is concerned. "

"Perhaps, we may come to the same point. Your competence and my wealth are very much alike, I dare say; and without them, as the world goes now, we shall both agree that every kind of external comfort must be wanting. Your ideas are only more noble than mine. Come, what is your competence?" Edward realized that he was no longer even calculated in this conversation so he made himself comfortable to see the two sisters battle each other. He was also very curious about Miss Dashwood's statement regarding money and happiness.

"About eighteen hundred or two thousand a year; not more than that. " Edward was surprised at the large sum and his eyebrows rose high on his face. Margaret had to bite her tongue to prevent herself from laughing at his expression.

"Two thousand a year! One is my wealth! I guessed how it would end. " Elinor was indeed amused with her sister's calculation!

"And yet two thousand a year is a very moderate income. A family cannot well be maintained on a smaller. I am sure I am not extravagant in my demands. A proper establishment of servants, a carriage, perhaps two, and hunters, cannot be supported on less. " Marianne was of course thinking of Willoughby and Combe Magna. And her sister knew that very clearly.

"Hunters! But why must you have hunters? Every body does not hunt. " Edward asked with puzzlement for he knew neither sisters hunted. "But most people do" was the curt reply from Marianne and Edward dismissed the subject.

Margaret could be ignored no longer. "I wish that somebody would give us all a large fortune apiece!" "Oh that they would!" joined in Marianne and Edward once again smiled at this amusing folly of thought.

"We are all unanimous in that wish, I suppose, in spite of the insufficiency of wealth. " Added Elinor. Edward wished it also for his mother would be more easily persuaded if Miss Dashwood came with 50, 000 pounds. However thought was too dangerous for him to hold so he dismissed it from his starving heart.

"Oh dear! How happy I should be! I wonder what I should do with it!" Piped the littlest Dashwood. You would probably buy a large ship and hire a crew to rob Spain and Italy of its seafaring transports declared Edward silently.

"I should be puzzled to spend so large a fortune myself if my children were all to be rich my help. " Mrs. Dashwood joined in but Elinor answered her question for her. "You must begin your improvements on this house, and your difficulties will soon vanish. "

He was in much better humor than that morning so he decided to tease this silly but endearing line of thought. "What magnificent orders would travel from this family to London! In such an event! What a happy day for booksellers, music-sellers, and print-shops! You, Miss Dashwood, would give a general commission for every new print of merit to be sent you- and as for Marianne, I know her greatness of soul, there would not be music enough in London to content her. And books!- Thomson, Cowper, Scott- she would buy them all over and over again: she would buy up every copy, I believe, to prevent their falling into unworthy hands; and she would have every book that tells her how to admire an old twisted tree. Should not you, Marianne? Forgive me, if I am very saucy. But I was willing to show you that I had not forgot our old disputes. " The ladies laughed in earnest at his ridiculous description of their future habits.

"I love to be reminded of the past, Edward- whether it be melancholy or gay, I love to recall it- and you will never offend me by talking of former times. You are very right in supposing how my money would be spent- some of it, at least- my loose cash would certainly be employed in improving my collection of music and books. " Marianne did enjoy his company when he is in such a gay mood and not as dull as he usually want to be. His wit though repressed certainly did have that liveliness she admired.

And Marianne once again was happy for Elinor and their earlier walk was all but forgotten.

"And the bulk of your fortune would be laid out in annuities on the authors or their heirs, " continued Edward boldly.

"No, Edward, I should have something else to do with it. "

"Perhaps, then, you would bestow it as a reward on that person who wrote the ablest defense of your favourite maxim, that no one can ever be in love more than once in their life- your opinion on that point is unchanged, I presume?"

"Undoubtedly. At my time of life opinions are tolerably fixed.

It is not likely that I should now see or hear any thing to change them. " She indeed held firm to that idea!

"Marianne is as steadfast as ever, you see. She is not at all altered. " Elinor remarked the exact opposite of her sister's true nature.

"She is only grown a little more grave than she was. "

"Nay, Edward, you need not reproach me. You are not very gay yourself. " Marianne defended her emotions with vigor.

"Why should you think so? But gaiety never was a part of my character. " Edward confessed with a real sigh.

"Nor do I think it a part of Marianne's. I should hardly call her a lively girl- she is very earnest, very eager in all she does- sometimes talks a great deal, and always with animation--but she is not often really merry. " Elinor's comment surprised Edward and he turned to her. "I believe you are right. And yet I have always set her down as a lively girl. "

"I have frequently detected myself in such kind of mistakes. In a total misapprehension of character in some point or other: fancying people so much more gay or grave, or ingenious or stupid, than they really are, and I can hardly tell why, or in what the deception originated. Sometimes one is guided by what they say of themselves, and very frequently by what other people say of them, without giving one's self time to deliberate and judge. " Somehow Edward thought Elinor's character could never make that kind of erroneous assumption.

"But I thought it was right, Elinor to be guided wholly by the opinion of other people. I thought our judgments were given us merely to be subservient to those of neighbours. This has always been your doctrine, I am sure. "

"No, Marianne, never. My doctrine has never aimed at the subjection of the understanding. All I have ever attempted to influence has been the behaviour. You must not confound my meaning. I am guilty, I confess, of having often wished you to treat our acquaintance in general with greater attention; but when have I advised you to adopt their sentiments or to conform to their judgment in serious matters?"

"You have not been able, then, to bring your sister over to your plan of general civility. Do you gain no ground?" Inquired Edward for he was always curious as to the vast differences between the sisters' characters.

"Quite the contrary. " Replied Elinor.

"My judgment is all on your side of the question; but I am afraid my practice is much more on your sister's. I never wish to offend, but I am so foolishly shy, that I often seem negligent, when I am only kept back by my natural awkwardness. I have frequently thought that I must have been intended by nature to be fond of low company, I am so little at my ease among strangers of gentility!" His voice lost all its teasing tone and the Dashwood ladies were pained to hear him speak of himself so lowly.

"Marianne has not shyness to excuse any inattention of hers. " Elinor wanted to turn the conversation but she failed and Edward continued. "She knows her own worth too well for false shame. Shyness is only the effect of a sense of inferiority in some way or other. If I could persuade myself that my manners were perfectly easy and graceful, I should not be shy. " Even Marianne wanted this conversation to end. "But you would still be reserved, and that is worse. "

"Reserved! Am I reserved, Marianne?" Edward cried out.

"Yes, very. " She responded promptly and Edward began to blush.

"I do not understand you. Reserved!- how, in what manner? What am I to tell you? What can you suppose?"

"Do not you know my sister well enough to understand what she means? Do not you know she calls every one reserved who does not talk as fast, and admire what she admires as rapturously as herself?" Elinor queried attempting valiantly to bring the humor back into the conversation but Edward could not successfully join her in her attempts. In fact his sad mood stayed with him for a while confusing everyone and wounding Elinor. However the next morning Edward was in a better mood after his walk and he once again began to converse with the ease he had in Norland. This all ended when Marianne unwittingly made some remarks during tea.

"I never saw you wear a ring before, Edward. Is that Fanny's hair? I remember her promising to give you some. But I should have thought her hair had been darker. " Edward felt his heart stop and his face began to blush furiously. The Dashwood ladies saw this transformation and Marianne was truly unhappy to have mentioned the embarrassing jewelry.

"Yes; it is my sister's hair. The setting always casts a different shade on it, you know. " He hated the lie but he hated more the spectre of Lucy rising again in front of him. He was happy here in Barton Cottage for the place enveloped him and made him invisible to all the machinations in the outside world. But when Marianne mentioned the ring the sanctuary wall came down and Edward was once again exposed to the unpleasant dealings in his life. However he stayed one week and was a pleasant companion to the Dashwoods in spite of his sad humor. And when he left for London his despair of leaving Elinor's presence once again overcame his facade and attitude. Edward decided that he must somehow deal and resolve his current desperate predicament. Upon his arrival he immediately sought out his best friend in London, Lord Benton.

Part 7 -- Edward begins his war

Please realize that Lord Benton is a figure of my own fancy and not Austen's. As I created Mr. Marcus for Colonel Brandon the young Lord Benton is the striking stone which will be used to bring fire to Edward's character. This chapter covers the period of Edward's stay in London.

Lord Benton lazily raised one elegantly clad foot to the stool slowly followed by the other. He sighed in contentment for this was the first evening in many weeks that he stood to spend inside his house away from the crowded rooms of the High Society in Town. And he was glad for the conversation was often dull if not unforgivably repetitious. Also the eligible daughters of this season were uncommonly plain and slow-witted; a miserable season he glumed in his chair. However he stood to gain a visitor who would change his mood into an immensely brighter shade. Ferrars had sent a small note requesting permission to visit him and the request amused Benton greatly. He had known Ferrars for two years now and he was the only friend Benton had who still 'requested' an audience with the young lord. Of course if anyone knew Ferrars this small foible was one of the endearing many that young man labored under.

Lord Benton was a man of huge fortune. His father conveniently passed away when he was three and twenty leaving him the lovely estate of Mellan near the border and a fortune's sum that can not be even hinted at. The general gossip was that the young man could be a total wastrel but would barely damage the estate. If this was his only good point it would have been good enough but the young man was also endowed with looks of a god. Having golden hair and dark eyes he stood a great figure and was an excellent shot. The gentleman could also dance, discuss minor and great things all with the same negligent ease that many sought to copy and none succeed. He was admired by everyone and invited to all the notable parties and dinners. His companionship was prized by other men but he was mean to give it and was known to shrug away friends with some cruelty. He was introduced to Edward Ferrars by the connection of the younger brother Robert. Benton thought Robert to be a perfect idiot and everything he disliked so when he heard the younger brother speaking ill of Edward Benton in amusement sought out the oldest of the Ferrars. And to his delight he found Edward to be indeed the exact opposite of not only Robert but the majority of the Society.

Edward Ferrars could disappear in a crowd of one. He would neither voice his opinions nor demonstrate his beliefs in a group of strangers. However when alone and in a trusting mood Edward was lively and measured his words with extreme thoughtfulness. He could neither be described as handsome nor distinguished but Lord Benton sketched him to his familiars as an amiable young man, too shy for his own good but too kind for anyone to tell him so. Edward was the type of fellow who invariably took the corner chair and who always spoke well of people. A quiet sun that warmed everyone else in the room, his shyness covered only a delightful character of good intentions matched by good will. Edward would never expect anyone to return favors that he had performed and would go through some extraordinary lengths to comfort others. People would not talk of him in any length for the man was not fashionable but no one save his family thought ill of him.

The young gentleman was missed by Benton when he left London. Though Lord Benton would never admit to the lack of absence even to Ferrars the young man knew that should anything befall on Ferrars and cut his presence short on earth he would grieve in real sorrow. And now the gentleman has returned to London and will put some intelligence back into Lord Benton's life! He heard Thomas answer the door and smiled in real pleasure as Edward strolled in. Their friendship is considered one of the oddest matches in London but Ferrars' mother was extremely proud that such a man as Lord Benton would consider Edward a friend and encouraged Edward to develop this relationship. Edward as usual turned deaf to such embarrassing requests but found Benton to be a good man if a little vain. However if vanity is all he could find Benton guilty of then the lord is very innocent in this London society.

Lord Benton immediately recognized the distress in Ferrars' eyes and the dark circles proclaiming deprived sleep. Edward sat down and began to struggle with what he wanted to say. Benton realizing the alarming nature of his friend's disposition gently began to probe and the response he received was indeed great.

Within the next hour Benton was treated to a great troubling story about Miss Lucy Steele, Miss Elinor Dashwood and another Miss something or other. Benton swayed from being amused to being troubled for his friend and the predicament that Ferrars' had found himself in. It was obvious to Benton that Edward was deeply in love with the impoverished Miss Dashwood. His whole voice and being proclaimed it to Benton yet the man was honor-bound to Lucy Steele. A woman who waited for four years to be called his wife! Neither will be accepted to his family with ease so Edward knew that he had a war on his hands. But that battle was nothing to compare to what was happening in his heart.

Lord Benton felt pity for Edward and told him should he have had a chance to find his one true love he would forget all and grasp that chance. But Ferrars was a man held high in his sense of duty and honor and this answer did not soothe him. After many hours the young man left Benton's home carrying the same burden with him. Benton stared at his friend's profile as Ferrars' carriage disappeared from his view. Poor fellow! He must do something to alleviate this problem of Ferrars. Lord Benton owed much to Ferrars for his sane and honest opinions and could not feel anything but injustice of it all for his friend. Damn that meddling mother of his and her equally meddling children. Without much thought he began to plan his next few social outings with the exact goal of receiving much information regarding the ladies. Then perhaps he could make some judgment and help Ferrars get out of this miserable affair.

To his absolute vexation this was not accomplished with any ease. The Dashwood ladies were absolute mystery to the society and of course Miss Lucy Steele would never have been introduced to his level so again he floundered for lack of information. However he discovered more than enough regarding a certain Miss Morton that Mrs. Ferrars had sat her sights on for her oldest son. Miss Morton was a lady of large fortune and good breeding. She could be called pretty if one could tolerate her voice. However one had to be deaf to not cringe at her speaking and Lord Benton did not believe for a moment that Ferrars could stand to hear that woman speak to him for any length of time. He often dined with Edward and spoke of his discoveries though his friend never knew that Benton did all this with great purpose in aiding him. Weeks passed into months and Ferrars began to resemble some of his former self. And when he talked of Miss Dashwood he was positively joyful. This only encouraged the young lord to expand his efforts and one day thunderous news dropped onto his lap.

It seemed that certain Dashwood ladies of Barton Cottage accompanied a certain Mrs. Jennings to Town! And now they were residing in comfort and planning to spend the Season here. Benton fairly danced when he heard the news. Ferrars will be ecstatic! Then the next bit of gossip stunned Benton into silence. A Miss Lucy Steele was also in that particular group and in fact the lady stayed in Barton park for no less than two months. That was too much of a coincidence and Benton knew there was some cunning in planning that hideous achievement. How will he tell Ferrars?

He need not have fussed for Edward stormed into his house in total disarray for John his brother-in-law told everything. Benton would have thought the situation to be comical but he knew that this was a total nightmare for Ferrars and felt sympathy for his foolish friend. They agreed that Ferrars to drop out of society for a while and Benton to find the meaning behind this awful arrangement. He began to carry out his plans that evening as he attended a ball where all the ladies in question are to be presented. He circled the room until the Dashwood ladies were noted and without even much of a thought he whisked his host to be introduced. The ladies were indeed lovely though their gowns were somewhat plain for this society. The one called Marianne was indeed a striking girl but it was obvious she was distracted and even his great personage could not hold her attention. A little puzzled he turned his charms towards Miss Dashwood and also found someone of a disinterested party! Extraordinary! These sisters really did not care to ingratiate themselves into his company and he liked them for it. Miss Dashwood was as lovely and charming as Ferrars described her to be and Benton silently congratulated his friend on this excellent choice. He soon formed good opinions of the Dashwood ladies and everyone noted his preference for them that night. This was indeed a good beginning for the new girls and he made sure everyone of importance knew that he thought highly of the Dashwood feys from Barton. Having no desire to torture his ears with Miss Morton's whining he then sought out the company of Miss Lucy Steele. If the Dashwood ladies did not seek to ingratiate this one did for the all of the Jennings' party. The girl was too simple, too uneducated and somewhat coarse. She was pretty in a country way but her manners were not polished and she professed to know nothing of the Great Society over and over until his mind began to close all its good thoughts from her. And there was a character in there though he could not name clearly that bothered him greatly. The girl disturbed him and Benton did not like it.

He told of his meetings to Ferrars though he softened his opinion of Lucy Steele.

This was the set deal for the two men while Benton went to society to follow the Dashwoods to ensure of their safety and good time in London while Ferrars heard of their exploits in comfort and exclusion of all that he loved dear. However not even this pitiful happiness was meant to last and one hideous news followed another in February. Ferrars found out through Benton that Marianne Dashwood was in love with a certain gentleman from Combe Magna, a Mr. Willoughby. Benton quietly told Ferrars of this most rash young man whose gambling debts were high and whose bills were also running the gentleman to the ground. Ferrars was horrified at this attachment but was at a loss to prevent it. Then this scoundrel went and got engaged to a Miss Grey whose inheritance would secure Willoughby's financial future. Though there was some great and often talk of a wedding between Miss Marianne Dashwood and Mr. Willoughby the gentleman coldly disavowed such connection and his now-fiancée strove to quell what she deemed as a cruel and vicious talk.

Edward knew that Marianne would never give her heart in blindness and believed her side of the story. He disliked this Mr. Willoughby though he never clapped eyes on this gentleman and decided to rouse himself from his own shame and finally visit the Dashwood sisters. However Benton was not yet done with his bad tidings. He was having dinner and was by chance sitting next to one John Dashwood, Ferrars' brother-in-law and the gentleman told quite liberally of a certain attachment forming between Miss Dashwood and a Colonel Brandon. Ferrars could not rise himself out of the seat and his head fell between his hands. Benton dreaded telling him this piece of news above all for he came to realize Edward really did love this lady. And Ferrars' reaction was what he feared most. Edward sat there knowing that one day this misery would come. He knew that when she came to town it would have been matter of days, hours perhaps before a certain deserving man would discover Edward's treasure of Barton Park. And would claim her for his own. The pain he dreaded feeling was nothing compared to what he suffered now and even Benton could not approach him.

"My good friend Benton. Do me this one favor. Please seek out this Colonel's character and find the truth about this man. I cannot bear to see Elinor be with a man who doesn't deserve her regard. " His voice was close to tears.

"I already did Ferrars. His reputation is spotless and everyone who can claim his friendship think most highly of him. He has good income and his military rank was earned not bought so the man is definitely a strong character. The only ugly bit of gossip I hear about him is the fact that he might, and that is very questionable, have a natural daughter hidden somewhere. But that was never substantiated and I made a point of meeting him. He seems the decent sort to me. " Ferrars nodded his thank you and tried to leave but Benton would have none of it. He practically dragged him to his club in the quiet St. James Quarter and they supped together. Benton did not want to leave his friend and was determined to invite Ferrars to stay with him at his place. They heard a raucous laughter from the card room and Benton determined to draw Ferrars' mind elsewhere escorted his friend to the tables.

"Willoughby, your luck has greatly improved since your announcement to Miss Grey!" One of the young rascals at the table commented to his partner. Ferrars raised his shocked eyes to the man who was responsible for Marianne's misery. Benton felt himself move in great dislike when he finally saw this villain and regretted bringing Ferrars into this mess. Willoughby's partner saw Lord Benton and gave a cheerful greeting. Then to Benton's great dismay he brought Willoughby over to introduce him! Willoughby smiled and bowed to the handsome lord and his companion though he did not know the pale fellow next to Lord Benton. Edward Ferrars stared at Willoughby and refused to greet him. Benton was shocked at his friend's manners but not as much as the rest of the men in the tables. The place hushed as they witnessed this social damning from Edward Ferrars, a gentleman who never shunned any person.

Willoughby could not believe what was happening as this insolent gentleman refused to speak to him though he stared at John with some passion. Ferrars' jaws were clenched and his hands rested at his sides refusing to shake or give notice of his person. It was most extraordinary sight ever witnessed in the club and the embarrassment grew bigger by the moment. Ferrars then turned to Lord Benton and said "I shall wait for you in the carriage. " Then turned his back to Willoughby! The insulted youth could take it no longer and demanded an explanation and an apology.

"You shall have no satisfaction from me sir. I give you no recognition for your person deserves none. Your hideous manners and character forces me to perform this unpleasant deed in public so do not expect me to explain what is obviously plain to others. Mainly your lack of character and understanding of honor!"

"How dare you! Whatever you hold against me cannot excuse this behavior. I do demand an apology or will have it from you by any means at my disposal. " "Then I suggest you take one. " The whole room gasped at this proclamation from the gentle Ferrars. Edward did not blink and he did not sway. His stance was firm and he was determined to hold his ground. His feelings for Elinor demanded it, his admiration of Mrs. Dashwood asked for it and Marianne's poor broken heart begged for it.

Willoughby saw the unbending anger in Ferrars and could not continue this argument and the others in the room witnessed Ferrars' final dismissal of Willoughby when he left the room. Benton decided to support his friend and also left the club without saying adieu to the insulted party. Afterwards every gentleman was abuzz with this outburst and should it not have been Ferrars' spotless reputation Edward would have been ruined permanently. However people knew this young man's good points and believed that Willoughby had committed some unforgivable act against Edward Ferrars to have roused such vicious anger from a man who by all reports was the gentlest in their circle.

Benton stared at his friend as they rode back to his place. he saw Ferrars' anger and rejoiced in it. Good, Ferrars is out of that depressed mood now and ready to do battle. And Benton could not wait to see where else his friend's elusive fighting spirit would raise its fists.

Part 8 -- Confronting Mother

Edward's world falls apart totally when Nancy, Lucy's silly sister blurts out their secret engagement to Fanny Dashwood. We begin with Edward's confrontation with his mother.

Edward was indeed glad he moved in with Lord Benton after his violent confrontation with Willoughby. He woke the next day expecting to feel ashamed of his behavior the night before but instead felt refreshed and a bit more cheerful. Confused but grateful for this turn of emotion Edward removed himself from his mother's place that afternoon with much consent of Mrs. Ferrars.

Now he stood in the parlor confronting his whole family. Fanny was with Mother and the two whispered like the conspirators that they were. Robert sat on the corner with delighted smile painted on his wretched face. Only John Dashwood looked solemn regarding this whole miserable affair and Edward felt a pang of guilt in injuring John. After this is all finished he will be receiving much of Fanny's wrath and diatribe.

"Edward my son. I hear the most hideous news of a secret engagement between you and this silly chit named Lucy Steele. Tell me this is not true. " She began with the tenderest tone of a mother wanting nothing but comfort from her loving son.

He wished for a minute that this was true. That she was a loving mother and he a faithful son. But that would be a delusion too far from the truth and he replied with a hard voice.

"No mother I am engaged to Lucy Steele and had been for last four years. "

The ladies gasped and moaned in unison like a Greek Chorus and Robert could not hold his chuckles. "Of course the girl lured you into this unwanted connection and you in all sensibility wish this thing to be broken. And we will use our utmost power to make it so my dear Edward. For what is Miss Steele when Miss Morton is. . . " "She is my fiancée and my bride-to-be mother. " He interrupted and was gratified to see that steel in his mother's eyes flash. Good. This is the way it should be.

"Do not interrupt me Edward. This is my home and you have no right to commit this treacherous act upon us. How dare you do this behind my back? To shame us with such low connections by engaging yourself to that country maid?" Her voice held the viperous ring that he became familiar with. "I will marry no other mother. She kept faith with me for four years while I tried to welcome her into this family. It is not her fault that I have failed in making her look well in your eyes. And I will marry her mother and no other. "

"Do not force me to play my hand my son. You will find yourself a poorer man for such a stupid act. I will never condone such an engagement and you will break it. That is the final decision of this family. " She tried to end the discussion and even turned her back to him to make a great showing of it.

"No mother it's not the end. I will marry Lucy Steele by the end of this month if not the next. I am planning to visit either Oxford or Longstaple with Lucy after we quit London and plan our wedding there. " He saw her mother's cheek grow taut with anger and fear. She slowly turned her head to face him again and he was surprised to see the visage almost aged 10 years from the minute before. And the old face indeed was not pleasant.

"Do this Edward and I will cut your inheritance whole. Save for your two thousand you will not see a farthing from me. And should you endeavor in a profession after your wedding to that chit I will make it my affair to see you ruined! D you understand Edward for I do not like traitors, especially one of my own blood. Marry Miss Morton and I will give you Norfolk which will clear you at least a thousand or even twelve hundred! Edward I will ensure your successes and everything afterwards will come easy for you! Please listen to your mother! I beg you for honor, duty and for your family! We must mean at least that much sacrifice. . . " Her voice finally showed some genuine anguish and he did feel her fear.

But then he remembered Elinor and realized he never forgot that sweet person even in this mess. What would she say if he turned Lucy out from their engagement? Elinor would surely feel herself fooled regarding her faith in him as a friend deserving her attentions. She would revile in him and think him no better than Willoughby! He closed his eyes as he thought of Marianne. He saw her on Harley Street one day and was shocked at her transformation. There was a lovely girl whose only sin was caring for a man who proved himself so unworthy of her regard! And she was the one who paid for Willoughby's sins. Her face pale, her demeanor even paler and her sweet voice was reduced to whispers. He could barely watch her go through the undesired actions of shopping knowing that every movement was painful for her. Edward was staring at the ground before him, his face thoughtful and his eyes darker than his thoughts. The family stared at him never seeing Edward in this mood. And it honestly brought fear to their hearts. They never met him so stubborn and unbending to what seemed to be a reasonable request!

He raised his head and his mother knew she lost the war. "And shall I abandon Lucy mother to be the ridicule of the season? So you, Fanny and Robert can mock and make ridicule of her to your friends and acquaintances? So she would be forced to become a victim to all the cruelties that this miserable society is so capable of inflicting? That she attend a social gathering and hear her name whispered followed by those cruel titters? Do you really believe I would punish that girl in such a horrible manner for the sole sin of loving me and keeping faith with me for four years? Do you believe for a moment that I want to see her pale and wasted with tears in her eyes and hate in her heart because she loved a coward? And for her to lose faith in things more valuable than that because I was foolish enough to bend my head to your directive? You demand, she never even asked. You ordered and she only wondered. You dare raise your voice at me to commit an act of such low value while she only wanted to be my wife! I will never marry Miss Morton and only Miss Lucy Steele will be my wife because I will have no other!"

He felt his heart cringe at that obvious lie. His wedding and marriage will be a sham even for him no matter who he took as his bride because only Elinor will make it real. However he will not make Lucy suffer for his foolishness and he was determined to make them realize this. He will not commit that act which he shamed Willoughby in public for. He will hold onto that shred of dignity which his mother did not destroy or try to control.

"Then you are no longer my son Edward Ferrars. I turn you away from myself, from your family and the Ferrars name. Leave me now and I never want to see you again! Know this, when you walk out that door from me and fulfill your stupid promise to that girl you will be eternally alone. I damn you Edward Ferrars. "

"You have already damned me mother. You made me your son. "

She turned pale and gave a large gasp at this last retort from her oldest. She really did believe that she could frighten him into obeying him but he was beyond fear and her control. Fanny began to shed real tears for she realized her brother was truly leaving them and even Robert felt a pang of absence in his heart.

Edward felt sadness but the feeling of freedom was greater and he left without turning to look back at that tragic tableau. He entered into Benton's carriage and was driven to his friend's house. Benton greeted him warmly and with great gentleness for he alone knew what feat of courage and strength it took for Edward to turn away from his family in such a manner as he did that day. He and Benton agreed that Lucy should be told very soon of his decision and what had passed between Edward and his family. After this Edward will lodge in Oxford, but for now he would move into -Pall Mall, one of Benton's numerous lodgings in London so his mother could not interfere with his wedding in any manner.

A letter was sent and he and Lucy met in secret. She shed much tears and needed great comfort from him but he believed that she was indeed happy that their engagement was no longer a secret and grateful for all he had sacrificed on her behalf. The two met frequently and Edward did indeed believe that he did the correct thing not only for Lucy but also for his conscience. Only Benton witnessed his quiet thinking of the other lady when Edward thought himself safe from any scrutiny. Benton could not help but admire his now impoverished friend and was determined to see that the gentleman be comforted in some manner.

One afternoon Edward finally realizing that he would never inhabit the same circle of friends as the Dashwoods decided to meet with them for the last time and leave a farewell card. When he turned the corner of the street however he faced a very surprised Mrs. Jennings.

"Oh dear Mr. Ferrars! How are you? We were so worried about your state since we heard about your thing with your family. I personally think you are the most perfect gentleman for standing with dear Lucy! She is my cousin you know and I could not bear to see that dear little girl hurt in any manner. Especially after witnessing Marianne's heartbreak. Oh dear, I should not have mentioned that should I? I have a bit of news for you, Miss Dashwood wanted to see you about a certain matter and was actually writing to you when I left her. She is still in the house and I think you should go to her immediately! I must go now but please come by as often as you wish and maybe I can help you in some way!" She left with the same speed of her speech and Edward felt lost for a full minute. He entered into the house and was led to the parlor where Elinor was still pondering her letter to him. She blushed profusely when she saw him and both felt the uncomfortable situation between themselves to its full extent.

Part 9 -- Edward Confronts The Colonel

It is a well-known fact that Edward was jealous of Colonel Brandon because he was informed that the gentleman formed a certain attachment to Elinor. With this mistaken opinion he visits the Colonel in order to thank the gentleman regarding his offer in Delaford but also to see this mysterious Colonel Brandon himself. We begin with Edward's meeting with Elinor where she informs him of the offer from the Colonel.

Both were acutely embarrassed by the situation they found themselves in. Neither wanted to discuss what had happened between Edward and Miss Lucy Steele but that was the only topic they could talk in good conscience. Elinor invited Edward to sit and informed him of the Colonel's great generosity with the courage she did not feel but strove to rise within her character.

"Colonel Brandon, who was here only ten minutes ago, has desired me to say, that, understanding you men to take orders, he has great pleasure in offering you the living in Delaford, now just vacant, and only wishes it were more valuable. Allow me to congratulate you on having so respectable and well-judging a friend, and to join in his wish that the living-it is about two hundred a year-were much more considerable, and such as might better enable you to-as might be more than a temporary accommodation to yourself-such, in short, as might establish all your view of happiness. " Elinor said this with all her kindness and no small courage for she realized that this offering would indeed place her beloved out of her reach. But she only felt the injustice raining upon Edward's person and offered with a peaceful heart to soothe his person.

Edward was shocked. An offer of living from Colonel Brandon? Why would a stranger offer him a comfort such as this? All that he could mutter is the name of his benefactor, "Colonel Brandon!"

"The unkindness of your own relations has made you astonished to find friendship anywhere. " There she said it. Voiced her opinion of the unworthy treatment of his family! She could be at least given that much freedom to express what she really felt. G-d couldn't hold this bit of outburst against her person when she suffered so much in silence. Edward felt himself cringe at that bit of truth but realized that the speaker only meant well. "No. Not to find it in you; for I cannot be ignorant that to you, to your goodness, I owe it all. I feel it-I would express it if I could-but, as you well know, I am no orator. " The misery of that statement reflected his deep unhappiness. He could neither thank the lady properly for her obvious efforts in achieving this bit of happiness for him nor express his love for her.

Why would this colonel give him, a stranger a living upon his estate? It must be his regard towards Elinor that moved him to perform this unscheduled act of generosity! What other plausible reason was there that a gentleman would offer a place in Delaford to a youth whose only attribute was that his family disowned him! Edward could no longer stay with Elinor and made a hasty excuse to extricate himself from that room. Almost running out of the house he could barely take a breath of air as he settled his mind to visit this Colonel Brandon himself to thank the gentleman for his kind offer and finally to see this man himself.

He called upon –St. James Street and was dismayed to find the gentleman at home and eager to see him. He was led to the study and noted many things about the house. It was handsome, nicely decorated with many elegant pieces but there was no light! The curtains were all drawn to truly keep outside in its place. The furniture though expensive indicated no comfort to its owner. Edward believed that the Colonel bought and decorated this place to his own needs and saved no thoughts for others. He could not know that Colonel Brandon didn't even bother to think of his own needs when he purchased this house or its furnishings. The two men finally faced each other in the library both very curious and yet wary of each other's presence in the Dashwood ladies' lives.

Edward saw a gentleman who indeed had the air of a man who succeeded in the world through his own means. The military air spoke of a man with strong character and self-control. Here was a man who will give Elinor everything she deserves! A good home, financial security and unerring love thought Edward. Here was a gentleman who could not commit such follies as he did because this man always had an achievement and greatness to win. Edward heard of this man's military exploits and admired the stories. However he could not admire the man who will in time succeed and steal Elinor from Barton Cottage. That was too much even for him to bend under and acknowledge. In every facet this man was his superior. What Edward would have given to be a Colonel Brandon! He felt tears form behind his eyes and had to blink twice to drown them elsewhere.

Colonel Brandon stared at the youth that wasn't much older than he was when his Eliza consented to elope with him. But this Edward Ferrars will always be stronger and greater than Brandon could ever be. This boy had done what he failed to do so many years ago. He stood against his family, his society and earned their unending condemnation because he truly loved his lady. How Brandon failed there! And the result of his cowardice was Eliza's miserable marriage and even more miserable death and for him – to live in this tombed existence. But this youth saw all this damnation ahead of him and swerved to miss a life of thin success and deep failures. He had truly sacrificed all for his heart and now he stood in front of Brandon for some generosity so absent from his own family. Colonel Brandon felt his very soul move in regret and jealousy. What he would give to be Edward Ferrars and to redo his past errors! To have Eliza living again and to have avoided all this pain he lived with for over ten years. Tears did form behind his eyes as it did with Edward but like the younger man he placed them elsewhere.

Both of the men were more in common than they could have realized. Both were of quiet taste but good refinement. And both were madly in love with the Dashwood sisters believing that neither will ever receive the same regard from the ladies. And their callous families and cruel fate made victims of them both. Should one have had the courage to voice his own opinion and converse in honesty they would have realized their similarities and would have found each other as good friends. But neither could for years of abuse and miserable fate silenced their tongues and their wishes. So the conversation was stiff and very formal though the generosity from the Colonel was genuine as was the gratitude from Edward.

Both left each other's presence more puzzled than ever and thought each other an enigma upon the lives of the Dashwood ladies. Edward talked to Benton and arranged to stay in Oxford while Benton kept him informed of all the happenings in town. He needed this time to clear his thoughts and Benton promised him that he will receive a note from him everyday regarding the Dashwood ladies, Miss Steele and his family. Only after such a guarantee could Edward retire for the day. Benton stared at Ferrars and once again felt the sadness and the admiration for his friend. Good Edward! Here was a man the young lord could truly admire! Many people speak of their own courage and worth but few could ever prove it when the time came and here was the quietest soul who had no faith in himself yet when the need arose Edward did not flinch to do the just thing! Where in all of London would he find such a man as Edward Ferrars?

Part 10

If there is one thing that can be depended upon regarding the weaker part of human nature it is greed. And Lucy Steele is no exception to this unsavory fact. Lord Benton realizing this plays the cards and the card players to gain freedom for his friend. We begin in London where Robert Ferrars more out of duty than wish visits Lord Benton to inquire about his now-renegade older sibling.

"His treatment of his family was unforgivable. Fanny is confined to her house and mother is in tears nearly everyday for his treatment of her welfare. I am here out of duty and care for my family more than my personal wish but I must bring some news regarding Edward. Miss Steele was more than gracious in accepting my visit but she parted no information. Please Lord Benton can you bring our minds to rest regarding Edward? Where can he be? Is it true that he is somewhere in Oxford?"

Lord Benton at that moment wished for Robert's abrupt departure from his house but refrained from removing the man from his favorite chair. This pompous fool must be endured so that Lord Benton can impart fresh information to his friend. Suddenly he realized what Robert just mentioned. "You have visited Miss Steele then?"

"Yes, the silly girl refuses to give up her claims upon my brother. She declares her love for him in the most coarse manner possible. But I have an offer of invitation from her to speak to her again though I cannot see what can be accomplished from a second visit. " His voice reflected the annoyance of his first encounter with Lucy Steele. "She is a simple country girl with no breeding and no family to recommend her! How can my brother. . . "

"Mr. Ferrars, please realize that Edward did not see Miss Steele under these fashionable and sophisticated circumstances. But in a simple country cottage surrounded by wild gardens. You are aware of your brother's love for simplicity and in that manner he has achieved his desire. She is no great beauty but I must admit that she has that fresh country look that has its own merits. And the fact that she is so simple and kind must be very comforting to Edward. Certainly there can be no deceitful nature within so simple a soul!" Benton was lying to his grave but he was willing to commit more foul a sin should he at the end accomplish his goal.

In a knowing wink he realized what Miss Steele was trying to accomplish with Robert. She never loved Edward, only his fortune and status. Now that is all but gone and this younger fop was to inherit everything. Would it not be grand if this fool also inherited the bride? He saw that amused and astonished look on Robert's face when he mentioned the imaginary merits of Miss Lucy Steele but was determined to make the man visit this cunning lady again. Benton knew without doubt that she will be more than convincing for yet another visit and another.

"She is I will admit to not my taste but her unconditional love is something sweet and unregulated. If Edward was to live in poverty then I cannot have chosen a better bride for him. She will be happy with the smallest care and the least number of praises. And her obvious respect for your person can only speak well of her. Don't you believe so?" His question was aimed to bring a certain response and Robert complied magnificently. The meeting ended with Robert talking which he liked best and Benton listening assiduously. After the brother's departure Benton felt like dancing for he knew for certain what the outcome would be. Depend on the vanity and greed of man!

Benton could not know how successful he or Miss Steele was in ensnaring the younger brother so he kept silent of his dealings regarding Robert and Lucy Steele. Edward continued to receive letters from both his friend and his fiancée regarding their time in London and thought nothing amiss. One afternoon he received what he believed to be the usual love note from Lucy and opened it.

Dear Sir,

Being very sure I have long lost your affections, I have thought myself at liberty to bestow my own on another, and have no doubt of being as happy with him as I once used to think I might be with you; but I scorn to accept a hand while the heart was another's. Sincerely wish you happy in your choice, and it shall not be my fault if we are not always good friends, as our near relationship now makes proper. I can safely say I owe you no ill-will, and am sure you will be too generous to do us any ill offices. Your brother has gained my affection entirely, and as we could not live without one another, we are just returned from the altar, and are now on our way to Dawlish for a few weeks, which place your dear brother has great curiosity to see, but thought I would first trouble you with these few lines, and shall always remain-Your sincere well-wisher, friend and sister.

Lucy Ferrars

I have burnt all your letters, and will return your picture the first opportunity. Please to destroy scrawls; but the ring, with my hair, you are welcome to keep.

Edward was aghast at the words. Lucy knew about Elinor? How long did the girl know of his feelings for Miss Dashwood? And what had she done on that knowledge? He could not stand and had to sit down to digest the cruel and wanton note he received from his supposed lover. Once again he perused the letter and saw the callous and ill-natured words. She cared not what her betrayal would do to me. She did not once conceive any worry for his person because she could not possibly expand herself to perform that mean task. He realized that his very limbs were shaking in this enlightenment upon Lucy's character. She played me a fool, a false and shallow girl took me and made me abandon my one hope of Elinor. Elinor, dear L-rd that girl was with the Dashwoods for two months even before London! What maliciousness did she spread there? What lies and contemptible rumors did she begin about my person to have the Dashwoods look at me with nothing but disdain and contempt!

He indeed now felt abandoned by all and sat in that room nursing his wounded pride along with his broken heart. Then he remembered Elinor's behavior towards him before he left for Oxford. Was there contempt in her voice? Or even dislike hidden under layers of politeness? No, he detected none and he was sensitive enough to Miss Dashwood to immediately hear a change upon her voice and note it to his memory. There was nothing there but warmth, kindness and even pity. In fact even Marianne treated him with more than her usual warmth. They must have known what kind of person Lucy was and kept silent to preserve his dignity. They did not laugh at him for his poor choice but commiserated with him in their silence. They pitied him and tried to ease his life with Lucy instead. It was humbling for this man to know that he had such friends care for him in so dedicated a manner. But now as a trapped bird for the first time realizing its power of flight what was he to do? Unfettered by his family and their miserable plotting; freed from Lucy's greedy talons Edward felt himself swell in that little room 'til he felt he could no longer stand to be indoors.

Suddenly there was another knock on his door and Edward opened it to receive another post. It was from Benton.

Edward,

I just heard the gravest news my friend. In spite of all my diligence Miss Steele has run off and married your brother. I cannot say I congratulate the girl on her stupid choice but your family or what's left of it is in an uproar. Your mother of course promptly disowned Robert and now Fanny is truly confined to her house. Both women are damning Lucy to the heavens and John is about to go out of his mind. I would give you my sincerest apologies for failing to protect your fiancée but in good conscience I cannot lie. If that girl is as vicious as I think she is (for her actions regarding Robert) I am convinced that she is not deserving of you.

Another interesting matter regarding Miss Dashwood and Colonel Brandon. I heard from a very reliable source that Colonel Brandon last winter marched to Willoughby's house and demanded a duel! No one died and the matter was settled quietly so nothing was spoken but it seems that the reason or the lady involved in the matter was Marianne Dashwood. I was shocked to hear this and inquired a bit further and discovered that the Colonel's preference sways towards the younger sister and not the older. In fact it is a quietly known fact that the man is absolutely besotted with the pretty thing and was quite unhappy while he was in London. I think the man is very foolish to like a girl half his age but that is the course of love I suppose.

Again my sincerest regrets and apologies.

Humbly your friend,
Francis Benton

Edward nearly laughed for he could hear his friend's sarcastic voice through the letter. He felt no regrets regarding Lucy and Edward knew it. His friend probably saw through that masquerade like the Dashwoods. How stupid Edward felt! Did everyone know of Lucy's true character except him? And he was engaged to the lady for four years. How foolish he must have looked to Benton with his moaning and anguishing regarding Lucy's feelings. He also realized the true reason that Benton sent the letter. Bless his good friend for this bit of news. So it wasn't Elinor that the Colonel pined for, but Marianne. And the young gentleman did indeed feel pity for the Colonel because he himself knew what that pain of wanting felt upon one's heart.

What can he do now except return to London and soothe his mother? Even she did not deserve to lose two sons within few weeks and must be tormenting herself not to mention others around her. Resolved to return to her side immediately he began packing his few belongings. Then without real reason of action he opened his leather case and stared at the now worn portrait of Elinor. Where can he fit in her life now? Perhaps they could be as they were in Norland his heart whispered but it no longer satisfied his hopes. I am free he thought, I am also very poor and have no profession to recommend me but I am free! If I can grasp this very real fact then I can grasp at anything.

She will refuse you! His pride argued against his person. What do you have that can possibly offer in value? Stop this nonsense and go back to London.

I will hate it his heart rallied. I will hate every moment away from Elinor and I will despise my family even more for stealing my time away from Elinor. This is ridiculous he thought for I don't deserve her or her family's hospitality but it did not prevent him from planning an immediate trip to Barton. Perhaps after two weeks in London he could escape and visit the Dashwoods. His heart cried out at the injustice of this plan. Two weeks? Two weeks where you can be at Barton Cottage and visiting Elinor?

They will only pity you like some lost pup, his pride ripped into him.

It doesn't matter for I am free and I can make mistakes on my own. If she refuses me after hearing my plea I will know that she has no love for me but should I succeed I will be the happiest man in England.

You will fail. His pride continued to argue though with a weaker voice.

Then the failure is my own and I can blame no other for its birth. I can bear this pain for I have suffered under so many. But should she say yes and regard me with third of care that I feel for her then I am saved. I will speak my soul bare and see if she can forgive so many of my follies and weaknesses. She had cared and protected me as a friend and should I earn her love then I am the richest of men. My place is by her side he violently thought. It is not to London nor to my family's side that I must go, it is to Barton Cottage! And for the first time as a free man Edward began to take flight.

Part 11 - Seeking Elinor. . .

His ride to Barton could not have been as short as he wished and for the first time his impatience was also mixed with glee. It did not bother him that the lady might reject his offer of marriage but the simple fact that he was at last able to make such an offer of his heart consumed his mind. He rested for few minutes in the village before setting out to Barton Cottage and only when the lovely place came to view did his old fears return. And they did indeed play havoc with his mind. How will he explain his current situation and not look a fool? And then how in heavens will he convince Elinor to accept him when he just left such an imprudent match? Knowing that if he continued to delve into his fears he will turn and abandon his efforts he urged his horse to continue the path towards Barton Cottage.

Without much flourish he was introduced to the ladies and was dismayed at the subdued nature he found them in. Even Margaret chose to sit in a chair far away from him and remained quiet. Marianne Dashwood positively disappeared into the other corner of the room looking to want to dash out of his sight. Only Mrs. Dashwood received him with her usual warmth trying to ease the now-pale Edward into a light conversation. Which Elinor began with the dry weather that was currently blowing in Barton and the surrounding county. Edward did not know what to make of such shallow conversation especially from someone like Elinor so she was forced to carry much of it by herself. Mrs. Dashwood mercifully interrupted the bizarre talk by asking about his mother and he replied that she was indeed well. A lie of course but he was too troubled to care.

"Is Mrs. Ferrars at Longstaple?"

"At Longstaple! No, my mother is in town. " Why in heavens would they think his mother was at Longstaple?

"I meant to inquire for Mrs. EDWARD Ferrars. " Elinor asked her voice visibly upset. He stared at her then all the ladies in the room in absolute shock. Mrs. Edward Ferrars? When was he married? No, that's silly he wasn't married! Suddenly he realized that they had been misinformed as to the husband of his fickle fiancée and quickly corrected the mistake. "Perhaps you mean--my brother--you mean Mrs. --Mrs. ROBERT Ferrars. "

"Mrs. Robert Ferrars!" Both Marianne Dashwood and Mrs. Dashwood cried out in undisguised wonder. He heard Margaret pop from her chair and she ran around to stare at his face. Her eyes were huge on her face and even Marianne mimicked her movements. Edward did indeed feel something went amiss here and continued now in a most hurried tone while walking around the room.

"Perhaps you do not know--you may not have heard that my brother is lately married to--to the youngest--to Miss Lucy Steele. "

"Miss Lucy Steele!" Now the chorus was indeed in unison but Elinor to his great annoyance kept her head down concentrating on some needlework. "Yes, they were married last week, and are now at Dawlish. "

Suddenly Elinor's heart could no longer obey her style. She escaped from the room in a most hurried manner and she locked herself in the west parlor to cry her heart dry. He was confused as to what to do next and numbly walked out of the cottage followed by Elinor's sobs. He managed to walk himself into a state of grace and within the hour returned to Barton and found the ladies in a much improved mood. Mrs. Dashwood using the predetermined signal emptied the parlor of all its inhabitants save Elinor and Edward and the two were free to talk of what gravity or nonsense as they wished.

She did gaze at him with such tenderness that even Edward began to realize that she might hold some regard for him. Not questioning why and to what actions he deserved this lady's love he quietly began.

"I wish I knew what to say to erase all the vexations that I think you suffered on my behalf. But knowing that it was my folly that caused you so much pain I can only beg for your forgiveness. I can condemn no one else save myself for my blindness regarding Lucy. And I can condemn no one else save myself if I had lost what affection you might have held for me. But I come here a humble man made humbler by what you have given in spite of my foolishness and lack of character. You were the one true friend through all of this and kept me safe from even worse evils all the while thinking nothing of yourself and everything of me. I loved you in Norland and I do still. My heart was never Lucy's for until I met you it did not care to come into life. This is neither some fancy talk nor a desperate attempt at winning you but the glorious truth. And though it pains me to think that I will never have you as my wife know that I walk this earth as a man because you came into my world. And every day I shall thank the heavens that my foolish sister married your brother. If there is one thing that Fanny did right by me it is that. And for that one single act I forgive all her transgressions. " She looked calm he thought, so serene sitting there her face raised to him and her brow no longer marred by her frustrations and tears. There Edward realized that he indeed had a bride and not just a friend. Tears came unwillingly then but he continued in the same serenity that Elinor felt.

"Once in Norland you returned from the garden making presents of flowers to everyone but myself and though I believed I deserved no such token I bled in disappointment Elinor. It wounded me deeply that you care not to save one primrose for me. If such a slight action hurt me so deeply Elinor then imagine what would happen to me should you reject my suit. Let me pay your kindness as a husband and there will never be a day when you do not realize this. Let me stay by your side and face this world's follies and wonders together. I am one of those that can improve upon acquaintance though you might think that impossible and I will never fail you again as I once did. Marry me Elinor. "

"I will. " Elinor simply answered and with those two words Edward was in that moment the happiest man in all of England. The two sat there facing each other saying nothing and in perfect contentment after so much anguish and harsh times that silence was indeed the best thing for both.

Mrs. Dashwood came out of the kitchen and to her shock saw her two daughters listening in the conversation through the keyhole. Trying not to shout her disapproval she rushed down the hallway making the least noise possible. Then Marianne as if to hear her mother descending upon her raised her face. Mrs. Dashwood came to an abrupt halt half-way in the hall as she saw her daughter's tear-driven face. But it was filled with delight and happiness and when the youngest also raised her face the evidence was plain. The mother had to hold a hand against the wall to support herself. Her oldest finally found the happiness with a man she truly loved. This lady was indeed a rare breed for she cared not for money nor social standing; her daughter was happy and she in turn was absolutely contented. She gave a slow nod to her beloved eavesdroppers and returned to the kitchen promptly making a mess of supper.

Marianne stood there in awe of the confession she heard from Edward. How wrong she was to think him so plain! For whence a person has a good and kind heart the offering of love is as magnificent and great as any preserved in books. His words moved her like nothing she has ever read and she soared above her own memories for Elinor and shared in silence her sister's complete happiness.

As the hours progressed Edward decided to explain the nature of his relationship with Lucy. It was only just that the Dashwood family knew of this mess and exorcise this curse from their minds.

"It was a foolish, idle inclination on my side. The consequence of ignorance of the world--and want of employment. Had my mother given me some active profession when I was removed at eighteen from the care of Mr. Pratt, I think--nay, I am sure, it would never have happened; for though I left Longstaple with what I thought, at the time, a most unconquerable preference for his niece, yet had I then had any pursuit, any object to engage my time and keep me at a distance from her for a few months, I should very soon have outgrown the fancied attachment, especially by mixing more with the world, as in such case I must have done. But instead of having any thing to do, instead of having any profession chosen for me, or being allowed to choose any myself, I returned home to be completely idle; and for the first twelvemonth afterwards I had not even the nominal employment, which belonging to the university would have given me; for I was not entered at Oxford till I was nineteen. I had therefore nothing in the world to do, but to fancy myself in love; and as my mother did not make my home in every respect comfortable, as I had no friend, no companion in my brother, and disliked new acquaintance, it was not unnatural for me to be very often at Longstaple, where I always felt myself at home, and was always sure of a welcome; and accordingly I spent the greatest part of my time there from eighteen to nineteen: Lucy appeared everything that was amiable and obliging. She was pretty too--at least I thought so THEN; and I had seen so little of other women, that I could make no comparisons, and see no defects. Considering everything, therefore, I hope, foolish as our engagement was, foolish as it has since in every way been proved, it was not at the time an unnatural or an inexcusable piece of folly. " The explanation though clumsy and not well-planned did indeed clear the Dashwood ladies of any worry they might have harbored about the other lady.

Mrs. Dashwood invited him to stay at least a week and Edward happily obliged sending for his things in the village. The next morning saw Barton Cottage bright as a newly bloomed flower and every person in the house felt a great degree of happiness.

Later on Elinor brought up the subject of his family regarding Robert's latest betrayal and the subject was discussed and dismissed by both lovers. However she did tease him of his actions towards her during their time in Norland. "Your behaviour was certainly very wrong because--to say nothing of my own conviction, our relations were all led away by it to fancy and expect WHAT, as you were THEN situated, could never be. "

"I was simple enough to think, that because my FAITH was plighted to another, there could be no danger in my being with you; and that the consciousness of my engagement was to keep my heart as safe and sacred as my honour. I felt that I admired you, but I told myself it was only friendship; and till I began to make comparisons between yourself and Lucy, I did not know how far I was got. After that, I suppose, I WAS wrong in remaining so much in Sussex, and the arguments with which I reconciled myself to the expediency of it, were no better than these:--The danger is my own; I am doing no injury to anybody but myself. "

The explanation was the best a youth of four and twenty could offer but Elinor was wise enough to see the truth in it and forgave him very nicely for that past transgression.

She then informed him to his chagrin the expected arrival of Colonel Brandon and he decided to truly pay his thanks to the gentleman and see what Delaford has to offer. Both of them knew that a marriage could not be supported by that single livelihood but Edward had a plan of sorts to visit his mother. Being deprived of his presence was one thing but being deprived of two sons he knew his mother could not live in such a condition. However he was at a loss on how to achieve this feat. Their lives were tossed into happier disarray with the arrival of the Colonel and the man had to be informed properly and to the full extent of Edward's confusing marital condition. After a few days two letters arrived from town. One from Mrs. Jennings naming Lucy Steele as an unforgivable hussy and one from John Dashwood giving very broad hints to possibilities of Edward being accepted into the family fold again. The young man did chafe and rightfully so at the somewhat insolent language John used but Elinor tamed him with her wisdom and he began to plan to visit London again. But first he followed Colonel Brandon to Delaford to see for the first time his new home. The ladies saw the gentlemen off in happiness and hope of a quick return. Amongst this group saying farewell the youngest had the broadest smile. Margaret was indeed in a great mood. Dear, good Edward she thought, you finally came home.

Part 12 -- The Day Of The Wedding

Braving his family Edward succeeds in resuscitating his relationship with his mother. Now everything is planned for the wedding day but as fate would have her way the day does not pass without problems.

Edward solemnly sat in the Delaford's parlor quite convinced he would remain a bachelor 'til his death. He had braved his mother's wrath and acquired some inheritance that would guarantee a comfortable living as a married man. Elinor then decided to his delight that they could not wait until the parsonage was readied and hastened their wedding date. The good Colonel volunteered a suite of rooms in Delaford for their use until the parsonage was appropriate for living. Happy and contented beyond his care he let Elinor and her family carry the wedding plans to their imagination.

Leaves of particular shades were collected to make wreaths and collected they were. Colonel Brandon exclaimed with some humor that Margaret managed to haul so many leaves that there were more on his South Parlor floor than the whole of Delaford's grounds. Marianne bloomed once again to her usual beauty and Elinor derived even more pleasure from her sister's recovery so the whole Dashwood household and all their near acquaintances were indeed in a celebratory mood by the wedding date.

And that was when all the troubles began. First Elinor's bouquet disappeared from the music room and then the parson's carriage broke down along the way. It would be at least another hour before he could arrive and heaven knows where Marianne would find another bouquet for her sister! Edward groaned into his hands but managed to straighten himself when he heard Margaret's footsteps outside his door. She bursted in and cried out "He's here! The parson's here! Come Edward we must hurry!" She need not have shouted the last sentence for he was out the door before she could turn herself.

Colonel Brandon was waiting for him outside the church and the men entered together. Edward saw the parson and the gentleman was very apologetic indeed for making the party wait. Mrs. Jennings was beaming proudly and Sir John was engrossed in a conversation with Lord Benton who came a week ago to present a very beautiful wedding gift to the couple. The young lord sincerely enjoyed this charming country and was debating whether to purchase a small estate here.

The children from the village began to sing a hymn and the ceremony began. Edward slowly turned towards the door and waited with some impatience at the appearance of his bride. Marianne entered followed by Elinor and Edward then knew that today he would be a husband. Somehow Marianne found another bouquet for her sister and he was glad. It was very strange how he noticed all the trivialities while such a great occasion was happening in his life. The parson began his words and Edward performed his office with great care. Within minutes he was no longer a bachelor and Elinor had a new name of Ferrars. The couple was cheered all the way to the main house where the Colonel prepared the wedding festivities with his usual exuberant kindness.

As the music struck and the fiddlers began their lively song Edward felt himself expand in happiness. He was no longer just Edward Ferrars but Edward Ferrars, the husband of Elinor Ferrars formerly of Dashwood. Her name will forever be attached to his as her person and once again he could not believe his luck. She took his hands and the couple circled the open floor as their friends cheered on. She was here, by his side and her face in front of his. Her soul was there with him and she would share all that was before him making so much of his unhappy history a forgotten thing. The music became sweeter and so did his eyes. Elinor was here and so was he and they were man and wife. It was good his heart said to his mind and his soul hummed in agreement. The two sharing the same thoughts and offering the same gratitude to heaven above proved to every witness, from the highest of rank to the lowest of the field, on that beautiful wedding day that true love once found and shared can survive any toil and evil that the world can throw as long as the lovers hold true.