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Chapter 10

r. Collins had been up the better part of the night preparing what he would say to each of his daughters. He wrote down ideas as they came to him (though inspirations escaped him often). He wrote out a schedule, placing each girl's name in the order he intended to speak with her: first Victoria, then Caroline, then Isabel (the talk with her, he had decided, would be to lift her spirits after last night's debacle). Following her would be Julia, and then finally Elizabeth. He saw nothing wrong with leaving the worst to last, even if he had the most joyous of news for her.

He waited until after breakfast, for he did not wish for the Darcys to be around the house interrupting his schedule. He had heard Mrs. Darcy inform her children that they would be stopping by her Cousin Philips' after breakfast. The moment the carriages had pulled away from Longbourn, Mr. Collins pounced, commandeering the library from his wife.

He began with Victoria, for she would require the most patience and handling. After all, she was such a delicate thing and he did not wish to make her ill. Besides, she had probably not even considered that Edward would like her, so the unfortunate lecture he would have to give her would be done with utmost sensitivity and care, as to suit a most elegant, gentle female.

"You wished to speak to me, Papa?" she asked softly when she entered the library.

"Yes, daughter...sit down," he said. Victoria seated herself in a chair. "Are you quite warm? We should have some blankets--or perhaps I should have started a fire."

"No, Papa. I am quite warm, thank you."

"Yes, well...very good. Victoria, I wished to speak to you about...er, well, about..." Mr. Collins feared scaring her. Suddenly, staring into the guileless brown eyes of the pale, quiet girl, he wondered what he was doing. She was too young to understand what Edward Darcy was feeling. She had probably not even given a consideration to the idea that he cared for her. She would not know what it was even if he told her.

"Yes?"

"Er...Victoria, in the interest of family unity and future..." His well-intentioned speech drifted away from him. He looked down at his notes and found only harsh accusations, cruel beliefs, incorrect thoughts. Mr. Collins cleared his throat several times, trying to summon the courage to speak to his baby in such a way. "Victoria, I had the opportunity to notice last evening that you are...getting to where you might consider..."

"Papa, are you saying that perhaps I might be allowed to be in Society?"

"I--" Where had the bright gleam in her eyes come from? He had not thought his youngest interested in anything to do with Society, having her place assured already by Miss Anne de Bourgh. "No, that is not what I was saying."

Victoria sighed. She had been hoping that he had noticed the interest Edward Darcy had paid her and was saying that perhaps it would not be in her best interests to marry Henry de Bourgh.

"Victoria, as you well know, this family shall lose everything once I have...I have left this earth most untimely."

Victoria could not help thinking, If I were Beth, I would most likely have rolled my eyes by now.

But she was a dutiful girl, and she said, "Oh, Papa, that shall not happen for many years. Do not worry yourself by thinking of it now."

"Thank you, my child." He sighed. "The problem is that I...I am doing my best to try to make things right for my wife and children after I am gone. It is not easy, I assure you."

"Of course it is not easy."

"Your mother, of course, shall have to have somewhere to live...although I dare say that should the new mistress of Longbourn be a charitable woman, she shall allow her to stay here." He looked for signs of affection in his daughter, and he was not disappointed.

Victoria, in never having been in Society, had not yet learned how to conceal her emotions. Her eyes were thoughtful and hopeful all at once. She was, of course, thinking of herself and Edward as the master and mistress of Longbourn. She was also thinking that should Papa die before Mama, she would be more than happy to have Charlotte stay at Longbourn.

"Victoria..."

"Yes, Papa?"

"It is because I love all of you that I do this. My cousin, Mr. Bennet, was a most neglectful father. He allowed his youngest daughter to run off and she married most disadvantageously...and most scandalously, I might add."

"Of course, Papa." It was one of her father's favourite lectures against sin, his cousin Lydia Wickham and her infamous elopement.

"So you must understand, dear, how it must be. You must understand that Isabel, Caroline, Julia and Elizabeth...must all marry before you can. They may not necessarily marry in such order, but how would it appear to Society to have the youngest married before the elder sisters?"

Victoria soon understood his point. He knew about Edward's feelings for her...or what she believed his feelings to be...and he was warning her that he would not allow her to marry him.

At least not until the others married.

"You have only known him a day, less than that. You know so little about him. From what Elizabeth has told me, he is the sort of man who plays on ladies' affections and then abandons them, hopeful that he shall marry them."

But Edward is not like that at all, and I know Beth would never have said that about him.

"He needs a wife who is sensible and who can make sure he is protected from evil...in short, Victoria, he needs a more active sort of person than you are. He needs someone who knows more about life than you do."

Edward said last night that he needed nothing more than a wonderful person who loved and respected him...whom he loved and respected.

"You can see why he should not marry you, do you not? You are too sickly...and delicate. You need someone who shall pamper you and make sure you are always attended to. You shall not get that from Edward Darcy."

I would get that and so much more. How would you know anything about it? Victoria wished so much that she could scream out loud, or kick his desk....something.

She held her tongue. She was an obedient girl.

"You do understand...don't you?"

She could not say yes. She nodded silently, tears filling in her eyes.

The tears made him feel guilt, for he knew he had hurt her with the truth about Edward Darcy. She had built up illusions which could not stand the light of day, and she would undoubtedly blame him for it for a while. Soon, though, she would understand that he had done what was best for her. He had taken it upon himself to write to Henry de Bourgh to insist that he visit. A visit from her future husband should lead Victoria to the right understanding.

He clumsily enveloped her in his arms, then let her go as she stood up. She walked out of the room. Her tears were not of hurt or disappointment, but of frustration. He would not understand, and she could not force him to it.

Mr. Collins sighed. That had not gone very well, and he was most discouraged. Perhaps I should put off the other talks until later...but no. I must do this now, before anything worse happens.

He sent his manservant, Hastings, after Caroline. With Caroline, he would not worry as much about causing her pain but he would still be cautious, for he did not wish to seem as though he were criticizing his favourite daughter.

Two minutes later, Caroline was brought into the room, looking very pretty and cheerful. Caroline felt that the previous night had been a smashing success, for Mr. Hollis had treated her most kindly and had been most gallant, almost lover-like...if not quite. Well, what did she know, she had never had a lover anyway. She was basing what she knew on the experiences of Isabel.

"Good morning, Papa," Caroline said, her hazel eyes bright.

"Good morning, Caroline."

"What was it you wished to say to me?"

"Please sit, daughter," he said, motioning to the chair her younger sister had abandoned recently. Once she had sat down, he prepared to speak.

Again, no words came out. Mr. Collins scratched his head in confusion. Why on earth was he having so much difficulty telling his daughters what he expected of them? First Victoria, now Caroline! He dreaded what would happen when he got to the last two.

Mr. Collins glanced at his notes again. He saw what he had written--it was similar in content to what he had said to Victoria. He sighed. "Caroline, as you well know, this family will lose everything once I have passed away...in most untimely fashion."

Caroline's eyes filled with tears at the thought of her father dying. "Oh, Papa, please do not say that. You are a younger man. You shall live for many years yet."

"Thank you, Caroline...but I know my limitations. I am not as young as I would wish for all of you." He would have smiled except that that would have upset Caroline more. "Caroline, you must know that I have been trying very hard to make things right for you, your mother, and your sisters after I am gone."

"Yes, Papa."

"It is because of this that I have sought out the company of such illustrious men as Mr. Hollis, Mr. Darcy and his sons, and Mr. Connor."

At the mention of Mr. Hollis, Caroline's face brightened. Mr. Collins did not notice, for his head was down looking at his notes again. When he looked up, he noticed that she was sight happier than she had been moments ago, and attributed it to her pleasure at his success in performing his fatherly duties.

"I have hopes that things will become easier after Isabel marries. It will, at the very least, assure that my dear wife has a place to live after I am dead. Yet I hope that the new mistress of Longbourn would be kind enough to offer her a place in her home." The hint was out there, but Caroline did not pick up on it. She was not completely obtuse to her father's wishes. She was thinking of Victoria, thinking that of course Victoria would allow her mother to live in her home.

"It would be most gracious of her," Caroline said. "I believe it could be possible."

Mr. Collins believed that Caroline had picked up on the hint well. "Good. I am glad you think that way. I believe that is all, my dear."

Caroline was most confused. Why had her father called her in for a conversation, if he was merely going to mention the future in such a confusing way? Caroline stood up and left the room, resolving to put the whole thing out of her mind. Perhaps he had been wondering for her opinion of Edward's courtship of Victoria.

Mr. Collins breathed easier after Caroline left. His next talk was with Isabel, and it went much better than before. Isabel, he realized, had not even noticed the defection of Mr. Connor to Julia. When he mentioned that the gentleman had not seemed to pay her much attention, Isabel replied, "Oh, do not worry yourself, father. Mr. Connor spent most of the evening with me, remember? I think that if there were someone else to be a serious threat that I would know it by now."

Isabel's confidence inspired her father. Isabel was indeed a knowing girl, and she would know if something had changed between her and her suitor. He thought that perhaps he was imagining things between Mr. Connor and Julia, and thus he canceled his next lecture. Julia was safe from her father's talk...for the moment.

With an air of finality (and in a much better mood than he had been at the start), Mr. Collins informed Hastings that he wished to speak to Elizabeth.

Five minutes later, Elizabeth appeared, her face glowing with an emotion that he could not place. She even smiled winningly at him.

"I have been informed that you wish to speak with me," she said.

"Yes, Elizabeth, I do. Please sit."

Elizabeth sat down and looked up at him with no little expectation in her eyes. He did not know what she was thinking, but then he rarely did.

"Elizabeth, I realize that we have not always gotten on as father and daughter should," he began.

"That is all forgot, Papa," she said with a smile.

"Good! I am glad to know you think so...but why?"

Elizabeth knew that the announcement was not hers to make as yet. Anthony had promised at the end of the party that he would not call for another day or so.

"Because...I am so happy."

Mr. Collins could not quite reason out his daughter's happiness, but he had a feeling that it had something to do with the Darcys' presence. With a small frown, he said, "Very well. Then perhaps I can increase your happiness by telling you some news which should make you the happiest of women."

Elizabeth's smile brightened. Anthony, I should have known you would not listen to me. You came and talked to Papa, you devil. But he must have been in the best of moods today when he accepted your offer, probably because you are so wealthy.

"I am always eager for news to make me happy."

"Good!" Mr. Collins smiled. Perhaps this would not be as difficult as he had thought. "Then allow me to congratulate you, daughter, on your engagement."

Her laughter bubbled aloud. "Oh, thank you, Papa! I knew you could not say no!" She rushed out of her chair and hugged him.

Mr. Collins managed to extract himself from her embrace. "Of course I would not say no to the gentleman. After all, I know it is not every man who will propose to a young lady of little fortune."

"Yes, but he has seen past that. He does not care about my lack of fortune at all."

"Of course he does not. And given his situation in life, he will make you the best of husbands."

"I believe he shall."

"Good. Then it is all settled. All you need to do is tell me when you and Mr. Hollis wish to set a date for the wedding."

Chapter 11

lizabeth blinked, not comprehending what her father had just said. She was still smiling. "What did you say?" she asked.

"Did you hear me wrong, daughter? I asked when you and Mr. Hollis would like to set a date."

"Mr. Hollis?" He did not seriously say Mr. Hollis. He could not have meant that. He meant to say Mr. Ashton, and Hollis came out by mistake.

"Yes, Mr. Hollis."

Her smile was gone, and her laughter this time was cold, empty. "You must be playing a joke, Papa."

"I assure you, Elizabeth, I am not trifling with you. Mr. Hollis asked for your hand in marriage last evening, and I accepted his proposal."

"But--but..." Last night? After I actively avoided him? Why would he have wanted to marry me? Especially since he seemed so enamored of Caroline?

"I thought you knew already," Mr. Collins said. "You certainly seemed happy enough when I informed you he wanted to marry you."

"I thought you meant--"

"Meant whom? Who else would take you as a wife, Elizabeth? Do you not think the world knows you for who you are? A stubborn, shrill, ill-tempered and ill-mannered young woman. Mr. Hollis says that he sees you as young and unspoiled. He sees you as something he can mold. He believes he can make you a proper wife."

"I do not wish to be a proper wife--or any kind of wife to that man, ever!" she exclaimed.

"Elizabeth! Remember yourself."

"I wish you wouldn't say such a stupid thing. I know exactly who I am."

"I do not believe you do, for if you did you would remember that you are my daughter and I may set your destiny as I see fit."

"This is not medieval times, Papa. You are not--"

"I am your father and you will obey me in this!" he roared.

Elizabeth stood, wishing for all the world that she were as tall as Caroline or Isabel. They, at least, could look their father in the eye without looking up.

"Papa, I cannot marry Mr. Hollis."

"I see no impediments standing in your way. You are young, fairly pretty, unattached at present--"

"I am not unattached."

Mr. Collins frowned. He had been hoping that this interview would go better, and at first he thought it was. Now Elizabeth was being stubborn and it was up to him to see that she saw the right of things.

And as for this ridiculous claim of not being available to marry Mr. Hollis, well!

"You cannot have formed a serious attachment for any man without my consent."

"I have not needed your consent to fall in love. My heart is my own and not yours." Elizabeth took a steadying breath and continued. "I have given it to a man who does not see me as anything ill-mannered, ill-tempered, shrewish, or in need of improving. I have given it to a man who respects and loves me in return. In short, sir, I have given my heart--and my hand in marriage--to Anthony Ashton."

Mr. Collins had thought that when Elizabeth and Mr. Hollis had both disappeared last night, Mr. Hollis had been proposing, for as soon his return the gentleman had asked to speak privately to Mr. Collins. Now he found that his daughter had no inkling of Mr. Hollis' interest in her...instead, she had given her heart to a man...

A man such as...

What had she called him?

"To whom?"

"Mr. Ashton. Mr. Connor's friend."

"You have been secretly meeting Mr. Ashton? The man I have expressly forbidden you to see?"

"When did you ever say that? Not once. I cannot understand your dislike of the man, because to me he is everything amiable and obliging. He is a wonderful man. I love him!"

"I forbid you to marry him!"

"You cannot stop me!"

"I most certainly can--and shall. I shall lock you up if you do not obey me in this."

"I would think you had read Miss Bronte's work one too many times. You cannot lock me up. Do you believe I would not find a way to escape?"

"I shall send you away."

"To where? You know no one."

"I shall send you to Rosings with your sister!"

"What has Victoria to do with this?"

"Mr. Henry de Bourgh asks for her hand in marriage--or he shall, as soon as I can marry the rest of you off."

"That will not be for at least another three years."

"He is coming with his cousin to take Victoria to Rosings--to prepare her for her future life. I have written to expedite the matter."

Elizabeth gasped. She had seen Victoria earlier, sobbing and looking most despondent. She had not been able to get the young lady to tell her what had happened to make her so unhappy.

"You will go with them. They will keep a most proper eye on you until you marry Mr. Hollis."

"You can lock me away until I am dead, but I shall never marry Mr. Hollis. I would rather be dead."

"You forget one simple matter, Miss Elizabeth. You are only twenty years of age. You do not reach your majority for nearly ten months. Until that time, I can do whatever I please, and if I tell you that you shall marry Mr. Hollis, by God, you shall marry him!"

"Then I'll run away."

"You shall not disgrace my family name in such a way! Ruin your sisters, would you?"

"They would not be ruined. You would put one of your infamous spins on the tale and say that I am visiting a relative, and I would never return."

Mr. Collins' mind had been working. Admittedly, it did not go as quickly as other peoples', but the mention of her sisters had him thinking.

Of one sister in particular.

It was admittedly a rotten plan, but he would bring his stubborn daughter to heel. He had to. Mr. Collins had given a man his word that he would be married to his daughter, and he intended to marry his daughter to Mr. Hollis.

"Then I must tell you of what I shall do if you refuse to marry Mr. Hollis."

Elizabeth saw that glint in her father's eyes. She knew not what it meant, except trouble.

"If you do not marry the man, then I shall have to find someone else for him to marry. I have promised him my daughter's hand in marriage, and if you refuse him, I shall have to supply him with another."

"Good. Offer him--"

"Let me finish. If he cannot have you, the one he wants, he shall have the next best thing--Julia."

Elizabeth turned pale as the implication was clear. Mr. Hollis was a fool, and he could easily be led to believe that he was in love with Julia as easily as she suspected her father had him believing he loved her.

"After all, you are identical in every way. I am sure once he is presented with all the facts, Mr. Hollis shall be grateful that he was spared having a wife such as you. Julia shall make him the best of wives. She is everything you are not, and she looks exactly like you."

He would force Julia to marry Mr. Hollis in my place. And Julia, who hasn't nearly half my strength, would do it. Elizabeth turned away. She could not allow that to happen.

"I do not understand why you are so repulsed by the gentleman, but since you do not like him, would you rather he be married to your twin?"

Elizabeth could not understand how everything had gone wrong. Not a day before, she was the happiest of women in the world, engaged to the man she loved. Now...

Now she was about to be forced to marry the most odious man on God's earth...next to her father.

"Elizabeth? What is it to be? Your marriage to Mr. Hollis, or Julia's?"

When she did not answer immediately, Mr. Collins rang for Hastings.

"Hastings, would you please send Miss Julia back to me? I have something--"

"Stop!" Elizabeth cried. She turned to the servant. "Get out."

"Yes, Miss Elizabeth," he replied, something akin to pity in his eyes as she bowed and made his exit.

"Have you made your choice then, daughter?" Mr. Collins smiled--it was as close to pure malice as she had ever seen. Elizabeth always thought that her father did things out of a misguided sense of duty, but this action before her...what was it for? Why was he doing this?

"Why are you doing this to me?" she whispered.

"I wish to see you settled with the right sort of husband, daughter. One who can treat you in such a fashion as you need."

Elizabeth had to make one last try. "But Papa, do you not wish for me to be happy? I can be happy with Mr. Ashton. He can take care of me--he is very well off, he can provide for all of us if something should happen to you."

"I have been making arrangements which would insure that you are all taken care of without that gentleman's help. I do not like Mr. Ashton. He is rude, vile, and uncivilized. I would not have one of my daughters sent off to the wilds of America with him. Think of how badly it would reflect on my family name."

"Yet you are planning Isabel's wedding to Mr. Connor, an American, as we speak."

"Mr. Connor is a gentleman. Mr. Ashton is not. People can see that."

She had failed. Tears began to form in her eyes, the pain became a tangible, physical entity and gulfed over her whole body.

"Have you decided, Elizabeth?"

Taking a ragged breath, Elizabeth said, "I shall agree to do this on two conditions."

"You do not presume to--"

"You are determined to make me miserable, I insist of having a say in the future happiness of those I love. Would you at least grant me that!"

Mr. Collins had no reply.

"I would wish...I would insist that you allow me to choose Julia's husband for her. As a wife, and the wife of..." She could not bring herself to say his name. "I would be in a position to see that she be advantageously married."

Mr. Collins nodded. "Even in your...time of crisis, you are a clear thinker. I agree."

"You will not gainsay the man I choose for her, nor will you argue when I select him, no matter what you think."

"I shall agree to that on one condition--that you choose this gentleman after you are married, and that he is not Mr. Ashton."

Elizabeth could not even bear the thought of him marrying someone other than herself, so she nodded.

"I also would insist upon your not forcing Victoria to marry Henry de Bourgh. I would insist that you allow Edward Darcy to court and, should they both find it agreeable, to marry her."

Mr. Collins had no intention of allowing that to happen, but as Victoria would not marry for at least two years, he agreed. By that time, he figured, Elizabeth would be busy with a child or two of her own. She would most likely have forgotten all about this silly agreement.

"Do I have your word you will marry Mr. Hollis?"

Elizabeth stared out the window. She could see Julia and Isabel playing horseshoes. Caroline had her nose in a book, unaware that her heart was about to be broken. She could say no. She could still...

No, she could not. She had to do this, or subject Julia to a fate she herself would not want. How could she put herself before her twin?

Dear God, how can I tell Anthony? How can I explain to him?

"I will marry him," she whispered. She wanted to run from the room, screaming in agony, but she walked out with a calmness she did not feel.

The Darcys had returned to Longbourn, all full of activity and cheer. Mr. and Mrs. Darcy walked together in a hunt for Charlotte, the William and the Misses Darcy had gone to talk to Isabel, and Edward was off in search of Victoria.

Only Alexander remained to see a spiritless Elizabeth wandering the halls.

"Beth?" He rushed over to her. "What is the matter?"

Elizabeth's violet eyes were dull and pained. Alexander had never seen her thus in his life.

"What has happened?"

Elizabeth could not bring herself to tell him. He might tell Julia the truth, and then all would be jeopardized. She would be forced to marry Mr. Hollis, but Julia would marry Mr. Connor now.

All she could say before heading to her room was, "I have made a deal with the devil."

Chapter 12

lizabeth spent the better part of two hours crying in her room. Alexander had searched for Julia immediately after Elizabeth had walked away from him with such despair in her eyes, but Elizabeth had locked her twin out and no amount of pleading would convince her to open the door.

Elizabeth could not contain her horror at the idea of marrying Mr. Hollis. The man was repugnant to her. Just the day before, she had paradise in her hand, and now she was forced to reality by a father who was determined to do what he willed and a suitor who could not understand why his reluctant quarry did not want him.

She had spent a long time crying for the horror, the absolute absurdity of being forced to marry Mr. Hollis. Then her tears had gone from outrage and anger to those of pain and misery, those tears for what she would lose with Anthony. Elizabeth had no idea what she could tell him with regards to her soon-to-be-announced engagement. She considered telling him the truth. She knew he would not break her confidence, but she also knew that he would try everything in his power to make things right for them--no matter what the cost to the rest of her family.

Elizabeth could not let that happen, either. Julia and Victoria would be protected. She would tell her father on the day of her wedding that the suitor she chose for Julia was Mr. Connor. Her father would have no basis for argument.

The day of her wedding. A shudder went through her at the thought of that wedding day being followed by a wedding night. Dear Heavens, she would have to submit to his advances! She would have to be a true wife to that man! Had it only been the night before that she had, with blushes aplenty, thought about what it would be like with Anthony?

There were only two things in which Elizabeth took relief. She had protected her sisters' futures and she had not told anyone--not even Julia--that she had accepted a proposal of marriage from Anthony. She had wanted to tell Julia so desperately, but her fear about her father's refusal had prevented her from saying anything. Now she was glad she had not said anything, for she could not tell Julia the truth and it would be most awkward to have to explain why she would be marrying Mr. Hollis when she had an offer from Anthony.

It is going to be uncomfortable enough telling her that I am marrying Mr. Hollis without getting into details.

After two hours, Elizabeth glanced at a clock and realized that she would need to join the others soon, and she could not be seen with eyes red from crying.

She forced herself to calm down, to stop crying, to stop thinking about what she had done. No. What she had been forced to do. Her eyes were still puffy when she rang for Hill, who came promptly to help her change out of her gown and rearrange her hair. Elizabeth wore an unusual subdued grey gown and had her hair scraped back into a knot at the top of her head. If she were to be forced into marriage she was not going to play the happy bride-to-be for anyone.

Hill informed her that the two families had retired into the music room. Elizabeth thanked the woman before dismissing her.

She looked into the mirror. When she had seen her reflection that morning, the face that had stared back at her had been dreamy-eyed, cheerful, anticipating nothing more than absolute happiness for the rest of her life.

Now her violet eyes were dull, her cheeks pale, her eyes red. With her hair pulled back so severely, she appeared older than twenty years of age. Elizabeth did not care anymore. She was to marry a man so odious that nothing mattered. Still, to keep up appearances with her family, she pinched her cheeks until color appeared, then headed to the music room to meet the rest of the family.

Charlotte had been informed by Alexander and Julia that something was wrong with Elizabeth. What it was, neither could say, for she would not say, keeping the door locked. Charlotte's concern for her daughter was boundless, especially when Hastings mentioned to Katie, the cook, that Miss Elizabeth had looked most upset after her conversation with her father. Katie had, in passing, mentioned it to Mary, one of the serving girls, only she added that Miss Elizabeth had run crying and screaming from the room.

Mary told Jennie, one of the housekeeper's underlings, that Mr. Collins had informed Miss Elizabeth that she would be kept from society for running off with Mr. Ashton the night before (which the servants knew about, but not the family) and being missing for more than twenty minutes. Jennie told Hill that Miss Elizabeth had been disgraced, and that Mr. Collins had informed her that she would be living with relatives in France.

Hill told Charlotte that Elizabeth was upset with her father, and nothing more. She had known Elizabeth Collins since her birth twenty years ago, and she knew that that girl would never bring such disgrace upon her own family. If someone had told her it had been Isabel, she might have believed it--Isabel had no more sense than a gnat, and could easily be persuaded into doing something foolish--but Elizabeth...never.

Charlotte, having already heard from Julia and Alexander about the problem, was worried when she discovered the apparent source. When Elizabeth appeared in the music room, obviously still hurting from some upset, Charlotte immediately rushed to her daughter.

"Elizabeth, what is troubling you?" she asked.

Elizabeth mustered a smile. "There is nothing the matter with me, Mama. I am fine. Just tired."

"Please be open with me. Julia and Alexander have both..."

"I am fine, I assure you. I was upset earlier, but I have gotten over it."

"Elizabeth..."

Charlotte was stunned when her daughter walked past her and sat in a chair slightly away from everyone else. She had thought perhaps Elizabeth would tell her what was wrong.

The conversation amongst everyone soon became strained. Everyone could see something was wrong with Elizabeth, and no one could quite decipher the problem. If some suspected that she glared at her father, they said nothing.

Hastings entered the room to announce that several guests had arrived--Mr. Connor and his sisters, Mr. Hollis...and Mr. Ashton. Elizabeth's eyes met her father's. His were triumphant.

He planned this deliberately! she wanted to scream.

The party entered the already-crowded room. Mr. Hollis turned to her father, who nodded cheerfully. Without warning, Mr. Hollis approached Elizabeth and grasped her hand in his sweaty one. She recoiled from the contact, but could not manage to slip her hand out of his.

Anthony frowned when he saw Elizabeth and Mr. Hollis holding hands. He had thought when Mr. Collins had sent the invitation for afternoon tea that perhaps Elizabeth had mentioned that they were engaged, but the sight of her with the "odious toad" made him worry. His eyes caught hers, and the hurt and misery--and the guilt--took him by surprise.

What has happened since last night?

Mr. Collins beamed as the guests were poured tea. He could have been happier had Mr. Connor chosen to sit with Isabel, but William and Alexander Darcy would not move to make room for Mr. Connor on the sofa next to Isabel, so he was forced to sit with Julia.

Julia did not look displeased. Neither did Mr. Connor.

Once everyone was settled, Mr. Collins made his announcement.

"I have brought all of you here because I wanted you to be the first to know...of my daughter's engagement."

Isabel, thinking he meant her, clapped her hands in delight. Caroline, who had not quite understood the meaning of Mr. Hollis standing by Elizabeth, began to figure out the truth for herself and her hurt grew. Victoria was uncertain of who was about to be engaged, but Julia stared at her sister...and then she knew.

But she did not know why.

Mr. Ashton was also looking at Elizabeth, but the truth did not come upon him as yet. He was still confused.

"I am sure you shall all partake in my great joy when I tell you that I have arranged for her to marry a man of means, a man who has, like myself, made his way in this world. He is the epitome of everything I would have wished for her. I realize that it is more customary to toast a future couple with champagne, but I feel that tea would perhaps be best today. Therefore, join me in a toast to the future Mrs. Phineas Hollis...my daughter Elizabeth!"

Caroline gasped. She was not the only one, for both Julia and Mrs. Darcy were stunned by the news. Alexander stared at his cousin, beginning to understand that something had happened between her and her father that forced her into this position. Her own words were the truth.

Mr. Connor and his sisters were shocked, for they had known that Mr. Ashton had proposed to Elizabeth the night before, and she had accepted. When they looked at that young lady, they were startled to discover that this engagement was no surprise to her. They turned their sympathies to their friend.

Mr. Ashton stared at Elizabeth for a long minute, his amber eyes reflecting disbelief, then fury. With a clatter, he set down his cup and saucer and stalked out of the room.

Elizabeth's tearing eyes were on him the entire time, not even noticing when Mr. Hollis kissed her hand (which made her twin nauseous on her behalf). He was gone...and she had not had the chance to explain.

Now she never would.

She looked at her father again. He was smug. He had intentionally done this, to drive a wedge between them and insure that Mr. Ashton would never give her another moment's notice again.

She would never forgive him for that. The hatred in her eyes took her father aback, and he cleared his throat. With everyone's attention back to him, he asked if perhaps Mr. Hollis would like to say some things. Mr. Hollis, who was never at a loss for words, gladly accepted his offer and began to speak of his great love for Elizabeth--and her love for him.

Elizabeth did not hear him. She kept her gaze focused on her father. She wanted him to know that she hated him. After a while, her look became so uncomfortable that he rose in the middle of Mr. Hollis' speech and stood next to his wife. Charlotte had noticed the looks passing between her daughter and her husband. Elizabeth would not look her way.

This is something wrong here, Charlotte thought as she looked at her husband. Mr. Collins, what have you done?

Chapter 13

he evening brought no rest to Elizabeth, and her head ached as she awoke the next morning. She had been unable to escape the nightmare come to life her father had consigned her to, and now she would have to face everyone since the shock had worn off the news. She dressed again with studied care, wearing a black gown as she believed herself to be in mourning. She again pulled her hair into a tight knot which gave her a headache. She did not care, for she felt that the headache would give her an excuse not to be amongst the well-wishers who had undoubtedly been summoned for her by Mr. Collins.

Worse than that would be the presence of Mr. Hollis himself, who had promised to call upon the family as soon as he could because, "he could not be from the sight of his lovely Elizabeth for more than absolutely necessary." He had asked her several times the evening before if she would like to have a wedding in February, perhaps on the fourteenth. Elizabeth refused to give him an answer, but she knew her father would wish her married soon.

Worse than the pain of having to suffer Mr. Hollis for today...and every day thereafter was the pain of having hurt Anthony so much. She wished she had been able to talk to him privately before her father had made such an announcement, but it had come about and she had to accept this. Elizabeth's thoughts had been dominated by the pain in his eyes.

Perhaps I can get word through Mr. Connor, asking him to allow me to explain.

There was a tap at the door. Julia had, the night before, slept in the one unoccupied guest room in the house, believing correctly that Elizabeth would want privacy. Elizabeth figured that the person at the door was her twin, wanting to know why she had accepted Mr. Hollis.

Elizabeth did not expect to see her mother and Mrs. Darcy in company with Julia.

"Good, you are awake," Mrs. Darcy said, bustling into the room and sitting herself on the bed. She glanced around for a moment and smiled. "This used to be my room, you know. I remember sitting once at that table and staring at myself in the mirror, wondering whatever my husband saw in me."

"Good morning," Elizabeth said politely.

"Beth, what is going on between you and Papa?" Julia finally burst out. "Do not attempt to deny this. I am your twin and I know you."

Elizabeth had lain awake all night trying to figure a tactful way of answering the inevitable. She had yet to think of one.

"Papa told me that Mr. Hollis had made an offer for me, and I accepted it," she replied.

"But I thought you were waiting for an offer from Mr. Ashton," Mrs. Darcy said. "Did something happen between the two of you which would have caused you to accept an offer from this gentleman whom Julia says you cannot stand?"

No, nothing happened--not until yesterday. Elizabeth could not say that. "Mr. Hollis made an offer for me, and Papa accepted it," she repeated.

"A moment ago you said you accepted it," Mrs. Darcy said. "Now you say Mr. Collins did. What happened?"

"I cannot explain further, but I have my reasons for accepting Mr. Hollis' proposal."

Julia frowned. "He said he would refuse to allow you to marry Mr. Ashton."

Elizabeth sighed. "Yes."

"He said that if you eloped, you would ruin us all."

"Yes."

"He threatened you in some way, did he not?"

Oh, Julia! How can I deny what you already know? And how can I tell you exactly what it was without you rushing off to try and change things?

"I--"

"What was it? That he would disown you? Why should that matter? You would live in America, he would be here. No one would know and I do not believe anyone would care if they knew."

"Everyone else would know, here in England. None of you would be able to marry. 'One false step in one sister can only damage the others severely.'" Elizabeth repeated their father's favourite rule on the behaviour of ladies.

Charlotte looked at her daughter and knew there was something more than just the possibility of ruining her sisters' chances of marrying. After all, if things went as they ought, three of them ought to be married soon enough.

"I wish I could say that she is wrong," Mrs. Darcy said softly. "But I know only too well the damage that can be done by a sister's foolhardy actions."

Julia whirled to face the woman. "This is Elizabeth we are speaking of, not Mrs. Wickham. Could you subject your goddaughter to a marriage without love? Would you have stood for it? How can you expect her to--"

"Julia, calm yourself. Lizzy is only pointing out that she understands why Beth should think about the consequences of a possible elopement."

"It appears as though she believes Beth should marry Mr. Hollis."

Mrs. Darcy looked at Elizabeth. She saw the misery on the girl's face, so different from the way she had been when the Darcys had first arrived. She sensed, as Charlotte did, that there was more to the situation than Beth was saying, but she did not have the right to pry.

"I do not think she should marry him," Mrs. Darcy said. "I am saying she may not have any other choice."

Elizabeth turned grateful eyes to her, and that was when Mrs. Darcy knew something else was involved.

"This is the last time I wish to discuss it," Elizabeth said. "I have made my choice and I shall abide by it. I hope that you can respect me."

"I wish I could say I do," Julia said forcefully. "But I have known you all my life, and I have never once known you to give in to any pressure in the world. I do not know why you have made this choice, but...I cannot help but be disappointed by it."

Julia walked out of the bedroom, and Elizabeth's eyes filled with tears. She had made a choice which would insure Julia's future and she could not even explain it to her.

And now she is disappointed in me.

"Lizzy, would it possible for me to have a moment alone with Beth?" Charlotte asked.

"Of course...pray excuse me." Mrs. Darcy left the room, closing the door behind her.

"Beth...what is the real threat Mr. Collins is holding over you?"

"Mama, I do not know of what you are speaking. I have told you all that is the problem."

"Elizabeth...you must tell someone. You cannot keep all this inside of you. He is preventing you from being happy."

"You have told me all your life that happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance. I believe that given everything I know about Mr. Hollis, my chances are as equal as those of people who have fallen in love."

"The difference between the two of us is that I never thought I would have a romance, and I did not. You have."

"I used to have. No longer."

"Please tell me what is troubling you." Charlotte reached out to touch her daughter's cheek.

Elizabeth pulled away and went to stand by her window. "I assure you, Mama, I am marrying Mr. Hollis of my own free will."

Charlotte sighed. She had tried, but just as Julia had done before her, Elizabeth was shutting her emotions away from the world.

"If you do not tell me, please tell someone. Make someone your confidant, and get advice from someone who knows all. Perhaps a second perspective would help make it easier."

"Nothing can make this easier." But Elizabeth could not help thinking that perhaps there was someone she could tell, someone who would keep a promise and not tell another soul.

"You expect me to do nothing about this? Beth, he is blackmailing you into marriage! And why? Because he is a buffoon, an imbecile, a...a fool! He cannot see past his own wants and desires. He knows Mr. Hollis is the biggest fool on earth, and he thinks it a fitting punishment for you."

Alexander Darcy was pacing back and forth in front of her, furious and spoiling for a fight. Elizabeth observed that he had plenty of room and privacy to do so, for she had dragged him into the woods to tell him the truth.

"I have made my decision," Elizabeth said quietly, feeling much calmer about the whole thing than she had before. "I cannot change it now."

"You most certain can! You can...you can run away."

"We have talked of this, Alexander. I cannot run away and disgrace the family, which still includes three sisters I care very much for."

"Then persuade Caroline to run off with Mr. Hollis. I know she cares for him--she has been glaring at you ever since the announcement came, as though you set out to marry the man." Alexander snorted. "Even if I had not seen you with Anthony, I would have known you cared not a jot for that fellow."

"I have not told you what I have been promised by my father in exchange for marrying the man," Elizabeth said. "I made sure that I would be getting something besides a lifetime of misery."

"What has he said?"

"I am permitted to choose Julia's husband for her, which I shall do on my wedding day. I intend to announce that Julia shall marry Mr. Connor. She, at least, will have the happiness I am denied. So will Victoria--Papa has promised not to interfere with your brother's courtship of her. I suspect that he will be wanting to marry her, and Papa has sworn he shall not interfere with that, either."

"You believed him?"

"Yes, I did. If I thought he were lying to me, I would not hesitate to expose him."

"No one else would be able to confirm what you say."

"Then I would run away and marry Mr. Ashton...if he would still have me. How about that?"

"You could not do that after you have married Mr. Hollis."

"Oh...of course not." Elizabeth sighed. "I do not know what I shall do, Alexander. I only know that this was the only way I could protect Julia from a fate I would not wish on anyone."

"Other than yourself, apparently."

"He was about to send for Hastings so he could inform Julia that she was to marry the man. What was I to do? Continue to refuse him?"

Alexander groaned aloud. Mr. Collins had fixed his daughter in such a bind that nothing could get her out of it.

"I expect you to keep your promise, Alexander. Not a word to anyone, especially not Julia or your mother. I do not want a soul to know what I have done."

"You should tell Julia."

"What should I say? You shall be happy but I shall not? How could I say that? What would she do? What could she do, for that matter? Nothing, that is what. I made the only viable choice available."

Alexander sighed. He saw no way out of this for her. "Why did you tell me unless you wanted me to help?"

"I did not want you to help. I merely wanted you to listen. I needed to tell someone. I could not tell Julia or any of my other sisters, and I did not wish to burden your mother."

"I have listened," he said softly. "But I do not like it."

"Elizabeth! Daughter! Where have you run off to? Mr. Hollis has arrived!"

Elizabeth sighed. "Dear Lord, I cannot tolerate the idea of the man now. How am I ever to endure a lifetime with him?"

"That is something you shall have to determine on your own," Alexander said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Now come, let us go to your father and I shall try not to kill him."

"He is not worth murder," she said.

"Could I not even form an anonymous lynching mob?"

"No. I do not wish the man dead."

As the two of them made their walk back to Longbourn, Alexander realized something. Elizabeth had asked him to keep silent about the issue...

She had not pressed him for a reply.

That is an evil thing you are thinking, Alexander Darcy. You know very well that Beth is counting on you to keep her secret. And you know it was told you in strictest confidence. You should not ever consider doing what you're thinking about.

Alexander smiled as Mr. Collins took Elizabeth's hand and took to her Mr. Hollis, then went in search of his parents.

Chapter 14

r. Hollis had been in such a great hurry to join the party at Longbourn that he had not noticed that his coat and vest did not match. He would likely not have cared if he had, since he would be in the company of intimates who would not bother to mention the blunder. He was too excited at the idea of seeing his Elizabeth again to notice that no one saving Mr. Collins was pleased to have him present. In fact, Mr. Hollis suspected that he saw no little joy in his beloved's eyes when she gazed upon him.

When he knew that it was his beloved at all. He had joined her father for a private conversation in his study, and when they returned to the music room where everyone else was, he had moved toward the twin he thought was Elizabeth only to discover that it was Julia. Luckily, he had done nothing more than kiss her hand and say, "Hello, my dear," before she shrugged off his touch (to any other person, it would appear to be a shudder) and told him that she was not her sister.

Mr. Hollis believed he covered his mistake quite well by saying, "Of course you are Julia. I feel that on such occasions one should be courteous to all one's future family." He thus proceeded to kiss the hands of all Elizabeth's sisters before joining his fiancee.

He was still in amazement that he had won the hand of the fair and beautiful Elizabeth Collins. He had been violently in love with her before ever realizing his condition. Had it not been for the lady's excellent father, he might not have known his feelings at all. Before he had known his love for Elizabeth, he had thought that perhaps her elder sister Caroline would be amenable to his courtship, and in fact he had begun to think himself with extremely favourable feelings for her. It had been William Collins who had encouraged him and made him believe that his suit would not be unwelcome to Elizabeth, and he had been right.

Phineas Hollis was most pleased with the whole situation. He had awakened that morning thinking himself ten times a fool for thinking that Caroline would ever be enough to suit him. What did he care for Caroline when there was Elizabeth around? Elizabeth was by far the greater prize, a shining, cheerful, decorous, yet modest young lady.

Had not her father said that very thing? Even when Mr. Hollis had had despair following his failure to secure her for a dance at the party the other evening, Mr. Collins had been there to assure him.

"It is modesty, my good man, that makes the girl avoid you," Mr. Collins said. "She has such violent feelings for you that to be in your presence, sir...well, it would be too much for her. She would very likely faint."

It had been Mr. Collins' glowing praise of the girl, combined with what Mr. Hollis himself had seen about her, that had caused him to ask her father for her hand in marriage. Even then, he had been terrified that she would say no, but when he arrived the previous afternoon, her father had informed him that Elizabeth would make him the best of wives.

And thus he was the happiest of men.

Mr. Hollis gazed down at his fiancee with complete contentment, mistaking the distaste in her eyes for that elegance which made her see everything with a slightly condescending air, which he thought best became a lady such as herself.

He could not help but notice the looks for dislike and distrust he was receiving from several members of the party from Derbyshire. Mrs. Darcy looked outright disgusted at him, but he figured that she had been informed that he was an attorney for Miss Anne de Bourgh.

He had no way of knowing that her youngest son had informed her of how his engagement to Miss Elizabeth had come about, something of which he himself had no knowledge. But then, he hardly noticed the absence of young Alexander except to feel a bit of relief. If his deepest heart were laid bare, Mr. Hollis would confess a deep resentment and jealousy of the young man because of his obvious closeness to Elizabeth. Mr. Hollis did not like the idea of his future wife having close male companions, and following their marriage he intended to see that no future meetings took place between them.

It should not be so very difficult to arrange, as his family has great animosity for anyone connected to Rosings Park.

As dinner was announced and everyone settled--Mr. Hollis taking Julia's place beside Elizabeth at the end of the table--Mr. Collins again toasted the new couple. Following a somewhat dispirited toast, he asked, "So, my dear Elizabeth, Phineas, when shall you set a date for the wedding?"

Elizabeth turned pale. Mr. Hollis assumed it was from her nerves about marriage, about what to expect from marriage. He wished to tell her that she had little fear about marrying him, whether it be in his demeanor, his living, or about anything she may have to fear about their marital relations...but such a conversation could not be delicately broached in mixed company.

"Well, speaking for myself...and I am sure I speak for my future bride as well...I would wish the wedding to be held as soon as possible."

"I do not believe he speaks for Elizabeth," Mrs. Darcy said coldly, glaring at Mr. Hollis. He, confused and embarrassed, looked away. "I believe we all know that Elizabeth can speak for herself."

All eyes turned toward Elizabeth, who would rather have suffered the ten plagues of Egypt rather than set a date for the beginning of a life of misery. Mr. Collins' eyes commanded her to consent to her fiancé's wishes and set a date soon.

He can force me to marry this man, but he cannot force me to marry him soon.

"I--I rather think I would like some time...to shop for a trousseau in London, and insure that all of my friends would be able to attend...and to...to..."

"Elizabeth, I feel, would greatly benefit from some training on how to run a household," Charlotte interceded on her daughter's behalf. She turned to Mr. Hollis. "I do not think you have a great house, but it would likely be one in great need of a woman's guidance...which I need hardly remind you, my dear Mr. Collins, is a daunting task."

Mr. Collins chuckled in remembrance. "Yes, I do. Fortunately, my Charlotte had Lady Catherine to guide her in all such matters and the transition went smoothly."

"It did indeed," Charlotte murmured, recalling what great difficulty she had had in holding her tongue whenever Lady Catherine had come to call, always to point out some deficiency in the Collins household. And the greater difficulty she had had in dissuading her husband from some of Lady Catherine's sillier suggestions. "So you see why Beth must have more time before she marries, my dear, for we shall not be able to communicate with her as we have before."

"Oh...I did not think of that. You are quite right, Charlotte. Well, Phineas, I am afraid that you shall simply have to wait until Elizabeth is well-versed in all the proper manners of caring for a household."

"I would not wish it otherwise," Mr. Hollis replied. "Still, I would feel much more relieved if a definite date could be decided upon, dearest, so when would you--"

"February," Elizabeth blurted out. "I would like to be married in February."

"But dearest, February is such a long time away...over four months."

"Time enough for me to accomplish everything that needs to be completed and be...ready to marry you." Elizabeth's voice dropped at the end of the sentence, and tears pricked her eyes again.

"Oh, well, of course, dear. I do not wish to rush you into anything you feel unprepared for, and certainly not marriage."

Then why did you think I wanted to marry you? Elizabeth wondered.

Mr. Hollis beamed, satisfied with himself at indulging his beloved. He drank some wine and glanced across the table at Caroline, who was frowning at him. She looked...

Well, she looked hurt. As though he had abused her feelings deliberately.

Mr. Hollis felt a bit ashamed, for he knew that he had been careless with Caroline's heart. He knew that he had caused her to feel things for him that he no longer felt for her. Still, how could she blame him for preferring another? He had made it clear to her from the beginning that he liked Elizabeth. That Caroline had not understood his intentions was her own fault.

He looked down at the food on his plate most studiously and ate without saying much...a blessed relief to everyone at the table, even though it forced them to endure the never-ceasing Mr. Collins, who had a great deal to say about the upcoming wedding, and about how he had yet to see a couple who were as well-suited to each other as Elizabeth and Mr. Hollis--except himself and his dear Charlotte, of course.

Elizabeth had not been certain where Alexander had gone, but she anticipated his return as eagerly as she wished for Mr. Hollis' departure. The former would likely not take as long as the latter, and she was soon proven correct when, following dinner, Hill privately informed Elizabeth that Mr. Alexander Darcy had returned and wished to speak with her. Elizabeth begged off the conversation Mr. Hollis wished to have with her concerning the introduction of her as his future wife to his mother and two sisters, excused herself from the rest of the party claiming a severe headache. Mr. Hollis, fearing she had been walking too far that day, made a mental note that perhaps he should have her father curtail her daily activities so as not to overtax her.

Elizabeth met with Alexander in the library after sneaking out a side entrance. He stood at the window, frowning at the dark, illuminated in the glow of the lamp and looking much older than his seventeen years.

"Alexander?" she said. "I was wondering where you had gone."

"I'm afraid you might not like what I have to tell you, Beth," he replied curtly. "It concerns the Netherfield party."

"What is it, then?"

"They are preparing to leave in the morning for London...and after a short stay there, they shall leave for America."

Elizabeth felt herself become numb. It seemed impossible for her to understand what was happening, but she knew. They were leaving because of Mr. Ashton.

"Without even saying good-bye to anyone in the neighborhood?" Elizabeth whispered. "Even after Mr. Connor seemed to...."

"Yes. I found the younger sister, Miss Connor, in the process of writing separate notes to you and to Julia. She asked me to see that you received them." He handed her a folded letter with her name on it.

Elizabeth, eager to see what Lucinda had to say about their sudden departure, opened the letter.

Dear Miss Collins,

It is with great reluctance that I write to you. I had no wish to do so, except my brother felt that perhaps you should know the damage you have done to a dear friend.

Mr. Ashton has already departed. He does not intend to stay in London as we do, but will leave for America as soon as he can. He cannot bear the idea of staying in this country any longer than he must.

Miss Collins, what could have possessed you to accept his proposal one evening and the very next afternoon announce your engagement to another man? What evil game have you been playing with his heart? I cannot fathom such evil in anyone, especially not a young woman whom I considered a friend, but no other reason than absolute malice can explain your actions. You may be assured that as Mr. Ashton's future sister, I no longer consider you any sort of friend at all.

As you will hear soon, we have left for London and soon for America. Robert felt it was for the best, and as I am eager to return to my beloved Jonathon, I agreed. Much as Robert would hate to admit it, he wishes he could stay and continue to court your sister Julia; however, he feels, as do I, that perhaps Julia should not be the most stable choice for a wife. Aside from the fact that her presence would bring a return of Mr. Ashton's heartbreak and memories of you due to your resemblance to each other, there is also the possibility that this willful deceit in one twin would prove to be mirrored in the other. It is a chance we are unwilling to take for Robert's sake and I daresay that an American wife would suit him much better anyway.

I send you no wishes for your future health and happiness. I feel that you are well-suited to Mr. Hollis and I may say with all assuredness that your marriage shall be just what you deserve.

Lucinda Connor.

Elizabeth had been crying from the opening of the letter and her tears increased tenfold by the end. Dear God, what have I done? I thought that by agreeing to marry Mr. Hollis I would be assuring Julia's happiness. And now I find that I have ruined it.

"I am sorry, Beth," Alexander murmured.

"Now Julia is to be miserable," Elizabeth whispered.

"And Isabel as well, for she believes herself to be the object of Mr. Connor's affection."

"And Papa will never realize why. He probably does not even remember that I told him I agreed to marry Anthony. Even if he does...he will not think it matters, because he does not suspect that it is Julia...oh, Alexander!"

Alexander wrapped his arms around her, small comfort though it was.

"Why has this happened to me? What have I ever done to deserve it?" she sobbed.

"You have done nothing except had the great misfortune of being the daughter of the most foolish man in England."

Alexander did not wish to tell her the rest...that he had confided in Mr. Connor the truth about Elizabeth's reason for marrying Mr. Hollis. And that in the end, Mr. Connor had not thought it important enough to stay at Netherfield.

"She could have found another way," Mr. Connor had said stubbornly, defending his friend zealously. He would not listen to Alexander's pleas for help.

"I wish there were anything I could do for you, Beth, but outside of abducting you, I can think of nothing."

Elizabeth reluctantly pulled out of his arms. "I thank you, Alexander. If anything could be done, I would have thought of it myself. But there is nothing left. There is no way out of this now. And no hope at all...for me or for Julia."

And quite possibly not for Victoria, either.

Elizabeth's spirits were truly at the bottom of an abyss, one she did not think she wanted to draw herself out of. She walked out of the library and up to her room, quietly contemplating the possibilities of the only solution which could save her sisters and end her misery. She wondered why she had not thought of it before, but she knew that before this, she had at least held the fragile hope that something could be done. That at least someone would benefit from her sacrifice.

Now she knew that no one would. And that only one thing could be done to possibly change things.

The question was, did she have the courage to do it?

Chapter 15

rs. Darcy sat in her bed chamber, idly brushing her dark hair when her husband entered the room. As he had for the past two evenings, his face was oddly impassive, reminiscent of a time when he had been considered the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world.

Elizabeth Darcy knew the truth behind that mask, and it did not impress or repulse her as it once had. She knew why he appeared silent and foreboding, and she honoured him more for his restraint. Many was the time that she wished she could say a word or two to Mr. Collins about his treatment of Beth, especially since this hideous turn of events within the past two days.

"I believe I pity you, Mr. Darcy, because you are forced to endure the man's presence more than I," she said.

"Having to be in the presence of Mr. Collins is bad enough, my love, without the added frustration of Mr. Hollis. The more I speak to the man the more I am convinced that he has very little feeling for Beth outside of what Mr. Collins has encouraged."

"You think he has been persuaded to love her?"

"I do indeed. I do not know if he had feelings of his own for Caroline, but the feelings he has for Beth are of her father's inducement and encouragement."

"The man is beyond comprehension," Mrs. Darcy murmured. "Why he would break the hearts of all his children, when it is clear what the true path should be. Why should Isabel marry Mr. Connor instead of Julia, merely because she is eldest? Why should Caroline not have Mr. Hollis instead of Beth? Why can Edward not court Victoria? If all were arranged correctly, Longbourn would be a happy place for once. Instead, everyone is perfectly miserable."

"Things are not to be any better, Lizzy, for Alexander has informed me that the Netherfield party is departing for London in the morning."

A flicker of memory awoke in Mrs. Darcy's mind--of what had occurred another time, when a different Netherfield party had gone to London.

"Do Elizabeth and Julia know?"

"Beth does. Miss Connor apparently sent her a virulent letter for her seemingly fickle nature. Alexander said he attempted to explain the situation but could not be heard."

"Will Mr. Connor make no offer to Julia?"

"No. Her outward appearance to Beth, of course, would make the whole matter difficult."

"Yes, of course, they would think so." Mrs. Darcy stood and began pacing. "What of Mr. Ashton?"

"Anthony has already left for London. It is said he will not be waiting for the rest of the party and intends to return to America immediately."

"Fitz, we must do something."

"Lizzy, we have been through this a dozen times. There is nothing we can do for Beth. She is to marry Mr. Hollis, and if she does not, it shall be Julia."

"Suppose something were to happen to Mr. Hollis..."

"Lizzy!" Mr. Darcy was shocked.

"Dear, do not deny that you were instrumental years ago in securing a position for Mr. Wickham which enabled him to marry Lydia. I am only suggesting that perhaps we could make arrangements in such a way that Mr. Hollis could be persuaded to let Beth alone."

"Dear, when suggesting that we bribe the gentleman, please do not use the words 'something happen to'. It makes me think all sorts of horrid things."

Lizzy smiled at him teasingly. "Fitz, I would think you had read one too many horrid novels, but I know you so well."

Mr. Darcy, who had long since learned the ways of his wife's teasing, smiled. "I do believe your idea has merit, but there is a small problem. Mr. Ashton has left thinking Beth has betrayed and lied to him. He may not believe any report of her having been forced into such a position."

"Surely he would understand her father. He must know that she loves only him."

"He is a man whose emotions have been taxed, and that makes him unpredictable. He is undoubtedly in London already, which means if the Connors are correct, he will be leaving for America within the next day or so."

"Do you think...is it possible we may intercept him before he leaves?" Mrs. Darcy dared not hope.

Her husband wished he could be optimistic. "It is not likely, my dear. I shall send Cuthbert immediately to see if he can find the gentleman and explain what has happened. Even that may not prevent him from departing, but then we shall know where we are. In the meantime, I believe that my man of affairs, Abernathy, has been asking for an assistant. It is just the sort of thing that Mr. Hollis could do."

"You forget one thing, dear."

"Yes?"

"Mr. Hollis is Anne de Bourgh's attorney at the moment. How would you ever pry him away from such a position?"

"By using an inducement which would lure any man thinking of matrimony--more money."

Mrs. Darcy frowned. "My dear, I can see that you have a plan of action, and I beg you to inform me of what you intend to do."

"The plan is simple, my love. I shall have someone convince Mr. Hollis that it would be to his benefit to join Abernathy in London, away from Beth and Mr. Collins. I am hoping that his violent love for Beth shall fade with distance. Perhaps Abernathy could be prevailed upon to have some business for Mr. Hollis in America, which may even postpone the wedding."

"This sounds wonderful."

"Cuthbert will attempt to intercept Anthony in London, and failing that will go to Philadelphia to speak with him. Hopefully by that time this whole engagement business will be finished and Beth will be free to marry him."

"I hope it happens sooner than later."

"As do I. Finally, I feel that it might be best for Beth not to be much in her father's presence for the time being. In fact, I think it would be best for all of us not to be in his presence, excepting Edward. I think perhaps we should take a trip to London in order to assist Beth in shopping for her trousseau."

"Oh, but I think Charlotte would prefer to do that."

"I think once the ideas are presented to Charlotte she would have no objection to your going in her place. We shall need someone here to keep watch over Edward and Victoria."

"Yes, of course."

"This has a slim chance of working, you know. The likelihood is that Mr. Hollis shall refuse to work for Abernathy, Cuthbert shall not be able to convince Anthony of the truth, and Mr. Collins shall refuse to allow Beth to leave with us."

"I think I would prefer to look optimistically on the whole affair."

"Yes. Then you will forgive me for leaving you for a while in order to set things in motion?"

"Of course, my dear. I believe I shall search out Beth to inform her--"

"You cannot do that, Lizzy, or she shall then know that Alexander broke his promise to her."

"He made no promises, dear. You know that is why he felt he could tell us the truth."

"She feels he promised her, and that is what counts."

"Then may I at least suggest that we are thinking of taking her to London without mentioning the rest of it?"

"You certainly could. Give her some good news after all she had discovered today." With a kiss, he departed in search of his manservant and Mrs. Darcy went to inform Beth of what was hopefully to be good news.

She tapped on the door tentatively. When there was no response, she tapped harder.

"Go away," a voice said from inside.

"Beth? Beth, please let me in. I have some news for you."

"Whatever for? There is nothing--"

"You must let me in for me to tell you."

After a long pause, Mrs. Darcy heard the door being unlocked. It slowly opened to reveal a pale, puffy-eyed Beth. After the girl shut the door, Mrs. Darcy took her face in her hands.

"Mr. Darcy and myself have been thinking that perhaps you would like a trip to London."

"I thank you for your pains, Mrs. Darcy, but I cannot accept."

"You certainly could. After all, would you not like the chance to get away from your father for the time being? Not to mention Mr. Hollis."

Elizabeth's violet eyes brightened for a moment, remembering who else was in London, but soon they dimmed again. "Papa would never allow it."

"I think he might...with the right sort of persuasion. Were we to tell him that you are to shop for your trousseau, I feel he would not object."

"Please do not subject me to any idea which furthers the plan of my marrying--"

"Beth, you would not actually be shopping for a trousseau. This is merely to get you away from your father and...him. Perhaps some time apart will cool his ardour and end the engagement."

"Mrs. Darcy, I do not think that possible while he is in the power of my father."

Mrs. Darcy struggled to find a way to explain how that would not be. Finally, she hit upon a reasonable explanation. "Miss de Bourgh shall surely be needing his services soon, Beth. I dare say that Mr. Hollis is not likely to be here much above a week if you are not present."

"He shall stay longer if I cannot go to London."

"I think that once the idea is backed by your mother, he shall consent."

"Do...do you think so?"

"I do."

Beth thought about what she had been planning to do, but decided that she would wait one more day before going through with anything so final. Perhaps her father could be persuaded to let her go.

And who knew what would happen were she to go to London?

"I shall pray that God sees the wisdom of such a plan," Elizabeth said, "because I know Papa shall not without divine intervention."

Chapter 16

lizabeth had refused to allow herself to hold out much hope for the success of Mr. Darcy's plan. She knew her father, which meant she knew how unlikely it was to work. Deep within her heart, however, a small part of her wanted to believe it would work, and it was that calm within her which somehow allowed her to be lulled into sleep.

She awakened late in the morning, refreshed and slightly more optimistic. After dressing in a lovely peach morning gown and having her hair arranged into a neat, but comfortable bun, she skipped down the stairs to join the others and was immediately accosted by Mr. Hollis with her father.

"Ah, Elizabeth, if you do not look most beautiful in the morning," Mr. Hollis said, grasping her hand and giving it a slobbery kiss.

Elizabeth restrained herself from giving in to the urge to wipe her hand on her dress. "Thank you, Mr. Hollis," she replied flatly.

"Dear, I have to most glorious news to tell you, and you needn't be worried that I shall be gone for too long, for I do not believe I shall."

Elizabeth's eyes brightened. It had worked!

"What has happened?"

"A Mr. E---- has contacted me, having heard about what an excellent man of affairs I am from Miss de Bourgh. He has offered me a temporary position with him, one that would pay me such a sum as would set us up in a lovely home in London. Oh, Elizabeth, I have seen the home of our future and I believe you shall love it."

"Papa?" she looked at her father to see if he had any inkling of where the offer had come.

"I would not normally approve of such a measure, since it would on the surface appear to be a desertion of Miss de Bourgh; however, the lady has also sent work giving her express consent to such an advantageous position...as long as it is only temporary."

"I see."

"Daughter, do not distress yourself at his absence, for there are many things which must be taken care of before you are married. In fact, I believe that you might not have much time to miss him."

Oh, please let that be an indication that he has accepted the Darcys' offer to take me to London.

"Which is not to say that you shall not miss him, dear, for I know you shall in your deepest heart. He is the man you are to marry, of course, and you care a great deal for him..."

As though it were my idea to marry him! Ugh!

"I realize that I shall have a number of things to learn from Mama..."

"Oh, posh. That is neither here nor there. You can learn those things later. What I am referring to, Beth, is an offer from the Darcys to take you to London to shop for your trousseau."

Act surprised, or else he shall suspect something.

"London?"

"Yes, my child, and a wondrous offer it is. You shall be dressed by the finest dressmakers in the world. She is quite a treasure I am giving to you, Phineas, and see if I shall not turn her out properly."

"William, you can only embellish the rose. My Elizabeth would look beautiful no matter what she were to wear."

Elizabeth flushed, but not out of embarrassment as her father and fiancé thought. She could not get over the anger she felt at their blasé attitude toward her.

As though I were a piece of property to be bought and sold. And who is to say that I am not? My father had no qualms about giving me to the approved bidder rather than the one I wanted.

"When are we to leave?" she asked.

"The family is to leave day after next, except for Edward. Such a dear boy he is, Phineas. He has shown such a marked interest in...Victoria," Mr. Collins said, mindful of his daughter's eyes staring at him.

"Victoria? But I thought she was to marry..."

"Well, sometimes things do not quite work in the manner they should. Victoria has a tendre for Edward Darcy, and I see no reason to interfere in the relationships of my children."

Elizabeth's colour heightened again, but she said nothing.

"Well, I must be off immediately," Mr. Hollis said. "I suspect that we may see each other in London quite often, my dear. You shall, of course, be staying in G---- Square?"

"Yes, of course," she replied coolly. "That is where the Darcys have a townhouse."

"Excellent. Excellent. Until I see you again, my dear..." Mr. Hollis kissed her hand again, and with a jaunty wave and requests that Mr. Collins send his best wishes to the rest of the family, departed.

"Your restraint amazes me, my dear," Mr. Collins said to his daughter.

Elizabeth said nothing and excused herself to join the others.

It was over breakfast that the hideous news came. Elizabeth already knew what the note Hill slipped to Julia said, but she prayed that the note was of a more friendly nature than the one she had received from Miss Connor.

"What does it say, my child?" Mr. Collins asked.

Julia's eyes widened in shock and pain, and for a moment Elizabeth feared that Miss Connor had been severe until she realized that the reaction was from the news itself. Julia handed her twin the note.

"Dear Julia,

I hope this news does not come to a great shock to you, but I wanted you to know before the rest of the neighborhood informed you. We are leaving Netherfield and journeying to London, where we hope to spend a few weeks before making our voyage home to Philadelphia."

The note continued to say, "We feel this to be the best course of action under the circumstances by which our dear friend Mr. Ashton was treated by your sister Elizabeth." But Elizabeth could not read that aloud.

"I do not pretend to regret leaving anything behind here in Hertfordshire, except your friendship and company. You are a true friend, Julia, and I hope you realize that our decision to leave is not anything against you, but I think you understand that it would be best for us to support Mr. Ashton during this difficult time."

"Why did they send the note to her?" Isabel whined petulantly. "If they were to inform anyone of their departure, it should have been me."

"More to the point, dear Isabel, why did Mr. Connor not make any proposals to you before leaving?" Mr. Collins was far more concerned with this than with the fact that the gentleman's sisters preferred Julia to Isabel, which was surely the only reason Miss Connor had written to her. "Elizabeth, continue reading. Does Miss Connor say anything about the possibility of Mr. Connor asking Isabel to marry him?"

"My brother Robert wishes to make his apologies known to you and your gracious parents for not coming in person to make his farewells, but he is most anxious to get to London, and as I am certain you know, I am anxious to get to America and my beloved. Jonathon has written me again, saying that he hopes I am able to return soon, and now I am pleased to inform him that the next letter I write shall soon be followed by myself.

"God bless you and your other sisters. I wish things could have worked differently, my friend, for I had such hopes of calling...on you soon...However, it was not meant to be, and I am sorry, Yours, etc."

The note actually read, "I had such hopes of calling you hereafter my sister," but Elizabeth was sensible that Julia would not wish that read aloud, for it would cause a commotion between her father and eldest sister.

"They are gone," Charlotte breathed. "Oh, no." She took Julia's hand, but Julia withdrew it almost immediately and, tossing her napkin onto her plate, left the room in a fury.

Elizabeth looked down at her uneaten breakfast, guilt and shame beginning to turn her stomach and cause her to lose her appetite.

"I cannot understand this. What could have prevented him from offering for Isabel's hand before leaving? If he had, I could understand, for perhaps he was considering making plans to prepare his house in Philadelphia for her."

"Perhaps he did not offer for Isabel, because he was not in love with her," Mrs. Darcy said calmly.

"Nonsense. Cousin Elizabeth, you had not seen how enchanted he was with my daughter. It was almost magical, the way he would look upon her with such wonder and awe. It was clear he was smitten with the girl." Mr. Collins thought about something for a moment. "I would be willing to wager that Mr. Ashton had something to do with this, mark my words. That friend of his never liked Isabel, and I think he convinced his friend not to offer for her."

Mrs. Darcy glanced at her husband, who swallowed with some difficulty. Neither of them thought that Mr. Ashton would ever have done anything of the sort, but they had not seen or heard from him since the announcement of Elizabeth's engagement. There was every possibility that he had, in his rage and grief. However, the persuasion would not have been against Isabel, it would have been against Julia.

"We must accept the fact that he is gone and move on," Elizabeth said softly. "If you would excuse me, I need to see to my sister." She set her napkin on the table and left the room.

Hill informed her that Miss Julia had taken to her room. "The poor girl is sobbing over that Mr. Connor, and the blackguard probably has not another care," Hill said with an injured sniff. "It is most sad, Miss Elizabeth. Everyone in this family is so unhappy these days...all excepting your father."

"Yes, Hill. Thank you." Elizabeth retreated upstairs, tentatively knocking on her bedroom door after she found it locked.

"I do not wish to speak to you, Elizabeth!" she heard from inside. "I do not wish to speak to anyone!"

"Please let me in, Julia."

"This is all your fault! Mr. Ashton offered you marriage and you turned him down! After leading him to believe that you loved him, you rejected him! Why did you do this?"

"Do you think I wanted to reject him?" she hissed, trying to insure that no one would hear. "I love him!"

"Then why are you marrying Mr. Hollis?"

"I--" Elizabeth could not tell her. "I have my reasons. Please, Julia, let me in."

"What for? There is nothing you can say or do now that is going to make him come back."

Elizabeth thought quickly. She had been considering the idea all morning, especially in the moments after Hill had given Julia the note from Miss Connor. Perhaps there would be a way to salvage everything after all.

"What if you were to come to London with me?"

No response.

"I do not suppose you had heard, since the news about the Connors came, but the Darcys have invited me to go to London with them to shop for my trousseau. Papa has accepted, and I think that I can convince him to allow you to join us."

"What good would that accomplish?"

"You would be able to see him. If they are going to enjoy London society, they will be at parties we would have invitations to as guests of the Darcys. You could convince him to marry you in spite of me."

"Yes...I could try."

"Yes. Now please, let me in."

There was silence for a moment, then the sound of the door being unlocked. Julia's eyes were puffy, but she was no longer crying and she looked a good deal more optimistic than she had prior to her flight from the breakfast table.

"Do you think Papa would allow me to go with you?" she asked.

"He will." Especially if I tell him that I intend to search for a husband for her. He cannot object, but he also cannot know who the gentleman is.

Julia nodded. "I pray it is so." She sighed. "Oh, Beth, I am so sorry for being so wretched to you just a moment ago. It was wrong."

"No, do not apologize. I understand completely...I assure you. And now, put a smile on your face because we are leaving for London in two days."

Continued in Section IV