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Chapter 26
Elizabeth halted her sobbing for a minute and continued, "My sister Jane wrote to me. My youngest sister has left all her friends, has eloped, has thrown herself into the power of Mr. Wickham."
Darcy's thoughts stopped cold. My God, it's not Fitzwilliam. She still doesn't know.
"They have run away together from Brighton. You know him too well to doubt the rest. She has no money, no connections, nothing that can tempt him."
With the latest revelation, Darcy could not contain his emotions. He jumped up and turned away from her to hide the turmoil in his heart. How much misery can be heaped upon this poor creature? he questioned.
"When I think that I might have prevented it. I who knew what he was! Had his character been known this could not have happened, but it is all too late now."
Elizabeth's last comment drove a stake into Darcy's heart. I should have been the one to make Wickham's conduct known. If I had, Elizabeth would not have been so prejudiced against me, she would not have accepted my lecherous cousin's proposal, and her sister would not have run away. What have I done? "I am grieved indeed. Grieved, shocked. But is it certain, absolutely certain?" he gravely asked.
"Oh yes. They left Brighton together on Sunday night. They were traced as far as London, but not beyond. They have certainly not gone to Scotland," she answered.
Desperately, Darcy blurted, "And what has been done? What has been attempted to recover her?"
"My father has gone to London and Jane writes to beg my uncle's immediate assistance. I hope that we shall leave within a half an hour. But what can be done? I know very well that nothing can be done. How is such a man to be worked on? How are they even to be discovered? I have not the smallest hope. She is lost forever and our whole family must partake of her ruin and disgrace." Elizabeth began to weep again. "Surely Richard will never want to marry into such a family. Our union was never ideal for his career nor his fortunes before, but now?" her voice trailed off as she began to sob again.
The anguish Darcy felt in his heart became unbearable. He could not stand to be in the presence of the one he wounded so deeply. "I'm afraid you have long been desiring my absence. This unfortunate affair will, I fear, prevent my sister from having the pleasure of seeing you at Pemberley today."
"Oh yes," Elizabeth replied, recollecting her plans for the day, "Be so kind as to apologize for us to Miss Darcy. Say that urgent business calls us home immediately. If you would be so kind as to conceal the unhappy truth as long as possible… I know that it cannot be long."
"You may be assured of my secrecy," Darcy pledged. "But I have stayed too long. I shall leave you now."
"Yes, thank you," she answered with a curtsey. "Good-bye."
Darcy took one last, lingering look at Elizabeth before quitting the room. He quickly walked downstairs and outside. After mounting his horse, Darcy turned back to look up at Elizabeth's room before riding away. He hoped to get a fleeting glance of her, but his hopes were not rewarded.
As he rode back to Pemberley, Elizabeth's voice rang in his ears, "When I think that I might have prevented it. I who knew what he was! Had his character been known this could not have happened, but it is all too late now." I should have prevented it. If it wasn't for my pride, this could have not happened. I am to blame, not you, dearest, loveliest Elizabeth, he cursed.
After leaving his horse with a stable hand, Darcy walked back to the open study window. Carefully, he climbed back inside. Normally, the master of Pemberley would have never climbed in and out of a window, but this was an extraordinary day. He knew that if he entered the house through any of the doors, he might be seen. The last thing he wanted was to alert anyone to his whereabouts.
Once back inside, Darcy closed the window, drew the curtains shut, and locked the study door. He sat in a chair in front of the desk and stared at his father's empty seat the behind the desk. "What shall I do now?" he asked sadly.
Chapter 27
Tired of being cooped up inside with the Bingley sisters doing needlework, Georgiana decided to take a walk. "Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, I am going to go for a walk in the maze, would you like to join me?"
"No, my dear," Louisa said while shaking her head. "I never want to enter another maze again."
Caroline scowled, "You should not enter that thing. I do not see why your brother maintains it. He should have it chopped down immediately."
"But the maze has been on this estate since its inception. Our ancestor planted and designed it when he first moved to Derbyshire," protested Georgiana. "William could never alter it. It would go against his family honour."
Caroline frowned, "Very well, but I still don't think you should ever enter it." As Caroline looked on Georgiana's determined face, she finally gave in, "Very well. But take a piece of string and tie it to the beginning so you don't get lost."
"Don't worry," Georgiana smiled, "I'll take great care."
Georgiana left the room swiftly, fearing that if she stayed much longer, she would burst into laughter. The last time the Bingley sisters visited Pemberley, they tried the maze. A few turns within it and they were lost for hours. Conveniently, Darcy and Georgiana were inside the house and out of the range of Caroline and Louisa's cries for help. Georgiana giggled while recalling the incident. We weren't very good hosts, but there is only so much of the Bingley sisters I can take.
Georgiana stepped outside and was walking past the stables when suddenly she froze. Captain Stanhope was amongst the horses in the stable.
She rushed to speak with the stable hand. "Excuse me. When did my brother return?"
"About an hour ago Miss," he replied with a bow.
"Thank you," she called as she hurried back towards the house.
Not wanting to be noticed by the guests, Georgiana entered through the servants' entrance and climbed up the back stairs. She walked to Darcy's bedchamber and knocked on the door. Not hearing a reply, she opened the door and glanced inside. After not seeing him there, she rushed down the back stairs and went to his study. She knocked on the door and waited a minute. After not hearing a response, she tried to open the door, but it was locked.
"William," she whispered, not wanting others to hear her, "It is me. Please open the door."
She waited half a minute and was about to knock again when she heard the lock open. After waiting several seconds, she opened the door and entered. Darcy had already returned to his former seat, and sat staring across the desk at the empty chair. Georgiana closed the door behind her and sat in the empty seat next to him. She studied his pained face for a moment before asking; "Whatever is the matter?"
He sat quietly for a moment before answering. "Miss Bennet and the Gardiners will not be able to join us for tea today. Urgent business called them home. She asked for me to apologize to you."
Good God! Georgiana thought, Surely she did not refuse him. "Is there anything that you want to tell me?"
"What?" he questioned, finally turning to look at her.
"Did she refuse you?" she asked, her eyes growing large.
"Oh, no, it was nothing like that," answered Darcy. "I did not ask for her hand."
"They why are you so grave?"
"I fear," he haltingly began, "I fear that I have inadvertently injured the Bennets in a way they are not likely to recover."
"What? How? You are exaggerating! Surely you would have never done such a thing!"
"It was never my intention to injure them. Indeed, I could have never foreseen that any harm would befall them. But it has and the fault lay at my door," Darcy quietly explained.
"I am sure you are not to blame whatever the problem is," Georgiana reassuringly soothed.
Darcy gave his sister a very sad smile. He loved her for her faith in him, though he did not believe he deserved it.
"Can you assist the Bennets in any way? Is there anything we can do?" Georgiana asked with more urgency.
"I don't know… I don't know."
Georgiana rose from her seat and gave her brother a kiss on the forehead. "I'm sure you will do whatever is best. At any rate, you aren't helping matters by sitting here brooding in the dark. Father can't come back to advise you."
"I wish he could."
"So do I," she replied. "Perhaps you should write Richard or David for help."
"Fitzwilliam?! Why should I ask him for assistance?" Darcy snapped. "And David? Surely you must be joking. That arrogant fool!"
Georgiana's eyes flew wide open at his outburst. Rarely had she ever witnessed Darcy lose his temper and very seldom was it ever directed at her.
"I'm sorry Georgiana," Darcy begged. "I did not mean to growl at you. Please forgive me."
"Of course," she said shakily.
"It is just that this is something I must deal with on my own."
"Very well, I will leave you to your own counsel. Let me just caution you that not having someone to confide in is a very lonely existence," she said while walking towards the door and opening it.
"You sound as if you are speaking from experience."
"I am," Georgiana sadly answered while walking out of the room, "I am."
Chapter 28
Darcy made his appearance amongst his guests a few hours later. He was obviously quiet and grave, but explained that his business had not gone well in the village that morning.
During dinner, he was silent, though Caroline tried desperately to engage him in conversation. His melancholy was not easily remedied, and certainly not by Miss Bingley.
That evening after dinner, while watching his sister play the piano forte, he considered his options. While meditating on what Elizabeth said earlier in the day and contemplating Wickham's habits, Caroline interrupted his thoughts.
"You are very quiet this evening Mr. Darcy," she began, "I sincerely hope that you are not pining for the loss of Miss Eliza Bennet."
"What?" he snapped. That presumptuous, pompous woman! he fumed. "Excuse me," he muttered while jumping up and quitting the room.
Darcy stormed out of the room and back to his study. When he entered the room, he suddenly had a flashback, remembering writing Wickham a check to satisfy the legacy and preferment left to him by his father. "Of course!" Darcy mumbled to himself. "Why did I not think of that before?"
Darcy rushed to sit behind his desk and began to write instructions to his steward, Mr. Ellis, and Mrs. Reynolds. It was not his habit to leave Pemberley without warning. Usually, his absences were planned and discussed with the steward and the staff well ahead of time so everything would run smoothly while he was gone. However, this time he knew that there was no time for meetings in the morning, so his instructions must be thorough and exact. He didn't know when he would next return, but he feared it might be sometime before he would see Pemberley again.
At the crack of dawn, Darcy rose and dressed. He ordered his carriage to be prepared immediately and left his instructions with the steward, Mr. Ellis, and Mrs. Reynolds. While eating breakfast, he was informed that the barouche was ready to leave. "Good. I will be there within five minutes."
"Very good sir," answered the footman with a bow, then left the room.
As the footman was leaving the breakfast room, Georgiana rushed in. "I saw the carriage outside. Where are you going?" she asked. She had been awakened that morning by the sound of the stable hands preparing Darcy's carriage. She was surprised by the appearance of the carriage because Darcy always rode his horse on short journeys and only rode in one of his carriages if he was going a long distance. Her brother had not informed her that he was planning to go on a long trip, therefore, his leaving Pemberley at that time seemed very peculiar.
"I must return to London immediately," Darcy replied.
"But what of your guests?"
"I'm sure you can entertain them."
"Why are you leaving? Why are you in such a rush? What is wrong?" she blurted, her eyes desperately searching his.
Darcy rose from his seat, barely containing his irritation, "Georgiana, I do not have time for this. Be assured that I am well. I need to go to London to attend to some business."
Georgiana was not satisfied by his answer. "Must you leave so quickly? Cannot it wait? When will you be back?"
"No, my business in London cannot wait. I have not an instant to lose. If you will excuse me… Give my apologies to Bingley and his sisters," countered Darcy sternly. He gave Georgiana a look that convinced her not to question him further. He quickly gave her a kiss on the forehead before leaving the room.
Georgiana sat down at the breakfast table and sighed. She glumly listened to the carriage leaving and was lost in her thoughts when Bingley burst through the door.
"Was that Darcy? Did he leave? Where is he going?" Bingley asked her.
"I do not know," was the reply.
Over a week passed without Darcy's return and the guests were becoming tired of Pemberley. Without him, Bingley's mind was often occupied with Jane and he longed to be at Netherfield again. Caroline's spirits were hardly better as she fretted about the company Darcy kept in London. He was her object and without Darcy at Pemberley, there was little point in her presence there. Darcy's absence made Mr. Hurst even more difficult to deal with. Bingley did not feel like fishing and Mr. Hurst did not want to fish alone. Instead, he sat inside and drank from sunrise to sunset, though rarely was he conscious so late in the day. Louisa preferred the liveliness of balls in London to the quiet solitude of Pemberley. She traveled to Pemberley only to help promote Caroline's chances with Darcy and Bingley's chances with Georgiana. Without Darcy, Mr. Hurst was just as drunk as he was in London and Louisa did not have the gossip of friends to keep her entertained.
Finally, one evening, Bingley proposed the whole group return to London. "Since Darcy isn't sure when he will return, I do not like trespassing on his hospitality without him here. Perhaps we should leave tomorrow."
Caroline readily agreed and turned to Georgiana. "Will you accompany us back to London? We can deliver you to your brother's house upon our return to Town. Surely you would like to see him again?" she asked with a gleam in her eye.
Georgiana saw through Caroline's motives. Clearly she wanted every excuse to see Darcy. However, Georgiana was longing to see him as well, and readily accepted the offer.
The next morning, Georgiana rose early. Wanting to get an early start, she dressed and left her room to eat breakfast. She walked towards the staircase to go to downstairs when she heard giggling below. It was two chambermaids, Robyn and Cassandra, giggling and gossiping. Normally, she would ignore such idle gossip, but this time was different. She distinctly heard her brother's name mentioned in the conversation. Silently, she crept toward the banister and listened carefully.
"Didn't Master Darcy look cute in nothing but his gaping white nightshirt?" Cassandra giggled.
"Yes, but I thought he looked even better when he was running to his room shedding his clothes," replied Robyn with a blush.
"But he looked so passionate when he was holding Mrs. Reynolds," countered Cassandra.
"And what about him climbing in windows? I wish he'd climb in MY window!" exclaimed Robyn.
"Girls, girls," lectured Barbara as she passed, "you had better get back to work or you won't have a master for very long."
"Yes ma'am," came the answer.
"Besides, how many times have I told you that nothing is more magnificent than a man in uniform who has sandy blond hair?" Barbara added with a smile.
Georgiana stood and watched the three part company before she descended. I wish Barbara had not stopped the two maids from talking, she thought. I'd like to know what exactly my brother has been doing while he is out of my sight. One thing is for sure, I will discover the source of his odd behaviour while I am in London if it is the last thing I do.
Chapter 29
Georgiana arrived at the London home, exhausted. Spending hours upon hours in the barouche with Caroline taxed her. As the carriage pulled up to her door, Georgiana felt a wave of relief wash over her. She was happy to be back in the company of her brother again.
The driver knocked on the door as Bingley helped Caroline, Georgiana, and Mrs. Annesley down from the carriage. The Hursts drove directly to Bingley's home, which just suited Georgiana. Mr. Hursts's drunkenness and Louisa's plotting with Caroline to have Georgiana married into the family always made Georgiana uncomfortable.
James answered the door and the look of surprise on his face was evident. "Miss Georgiana, what are you doing here?"
Confused, she replied, "Why? Am I not welcome?"
"No, no ma'am. Excuse me," said James while recollecting himself and showing the party inside, "I just thought you were at Pemberley."
"No, we've come to London to keep my brother company."
"But he left for Pemberley this morning ma'am."
Why would he do that without telling us? Georgiana pondered.
Darcy entered Derbyshire in the early evening. Good. Just in time for dinner, then off to bed, he thought. As he looked outside of the window in eager anticipation of seeing Pemberley, he began to wish that he could curl up in his bed, fall asleep, and forget all about his activities in London. He knew he wasn't being a very good host, but the activities of the past week had exhausted him.
The day after Elizabeth left for Longbourn, he left for London to search for Wickham and Lydia. Luckily, Wickham kept his predictable habits. He was still in contact with Mrs. Younge. A few days of mixing threats and bribes finally convinced her to reveal his location. Once locating Wickham and Lydia, Darcy tried in vain to convince Lydia to return to her friends, but she would not hear of it. He attempted to make her realize the folly of her ways. But where sense was never cultivated, discernment could never reign. Lydia was set on marrying Wickham.
Time had not improved George Wickham. He was still as reckless as ever. His debts mounting, he intended to quit the regiment and go to the continent, where he could marry well. As Darcy predicted, Wickham never had any intention of marrying Lydia, he just wanted a little companionship until he could gather enough money to leave England. At first, Darcy appealed to Wickham's honour and sense of decency, but Wickham was beyond those considerations. Money was his only concern. He demanded a large sum in order to fulfill his promise to wed. Darcy knew he had one hold over Wickham to which the latter might yield.
"Very well Wickham, if those are your demands. I hope you enjoy yourself," Darcy replied while rising from his chair. He had been in Wickham's shabby lodgings for sometime arguing with Wickham that he should marry Lydia. It was now clear that Darcy needed a different tactic.
"I dare say I will. I've been told that the Continent is lovely this time of year," Wickham triumphantly answered as he rose to show his companion out.
"Yes, it is. But you'll never see it, at least not for awhile," Darcy replied while donning his hat and gloves.
Wickham gave a start at this unexpected reply. "Whatever do you mean? You cannot keep me here."
"No, I can't, but the authorities can. I hear debtor's prison is most unpleasant. Good day," Darcy sniffed as he turned around to leave.
"D-d-debtor's prison?" Wickham stuttered behind him.
"Yes, of course." A small smile appeared on Darcy's face as he was reaching for the doorknob. "Over the years, your debts have become large and I am sure that more than one tradesman will testify against you."
"Wait Darcy!" Wickham called as Darcy was exiting the room. "Perhaps there is something we can work out after all."
Darcy quickly wiped the smile off of his face and turned around to face Wickham. He looked slightly pale at the suggestion of prison. Darcy returned the man's appeal with a cold stone face, "What do you have in mind?"
"Perhaps I have been a bit hasty. Miss Lydia Bennet is a charming girl. Perhaps I will marry her, if I am spared prison and can live comfortably."
Now the real poker game begins, Darcy thought.
After several negotiating sessions with Wickham, the terms were set. After meeting with Mr. Gardiner and arranging everything with him, Darcy was returning to Pemberley until just before the wedding. He needed to be at the wedding in order to finalize the financial arrangements and insure Wickham kept his word.
As the barouche stopped in front of Pemberley, Darcy sighed. "I just want to spend a long night in bed and listen to my sister play music tomorrow."
Ellis greeted Darcy at the door, "Good evening Master Darcy. We weren't expecting you back."
"Yes, I know. I didn't have time to inform you of my return. Where are my guests?"
"In London, I believe. They left this morning with Miss Georgiana."
Darcy gave a start at this unexpected news. What are they doing in London? "Very well, have the cook prepare my dinner and please prepare my bath."
"Very well sir," replied Ellis with a bow.
Several minutes later, Darcy let out an exasperated sigh while sinking into his hot bath. "They are in London? I hope they will stay there."
The next day, Darcy rose a little later than usual. He felt well rested for the first time in weeks. After dressing, he went downstairs and ate a light breakfast. After dining, he wrote instructions for the staff to follow in his absence. By late morning, he mounted Captain Stanhope and began the journey back.
He arrived in London in the late afternoon. Tired and dusty from the trip, he wearily climbed the stairs to his house. As soon as he was inside, James approached him.
"M-m-master Darcy," James began with a bow.
"Yes, what is it?" asked Darcy with a touch of irritation in his voice.
"Miss Georgiana is waiting for you in your study. She told me to inform you that she would like to speak with you immediately."
As Darcy walked towards the study, he felt uneasy. "What could I have done now?" he mumbled.
Chapter 30
Darcy knocked on the study door and waited.
"Come."
He took a deep breath and entered, "You called for me?" he asked while quickly surveying the room. It was as he suspected, she moved all of the chairs away from the center of the room. "Surely your doll isn't missing again?" he teased lightheartedly while assuming his place in the center of the room.
"This isn't a joke William," replied Georgiana in a stern voice.
"No, of course not. But may I inquire as to why I was summoned? I have had a long ride today, as you might well imagine," Darcy responded, with a touch of irritation seeping into his voice.
"Why did you leave Pemberley?"
"Because I had business to attend to here."
"What type of business?"
Darcy's eyes fixed on his sister. "It is not your concern," he countered, his voice growing hard.
"And why did you return to Pemberley?" she persisted.
"Because my business was finished," he responded sharply.
"Do you have anything you would like to tell me?" she continued.
"No."
"Very well. Perhaps I should write Richard myself and ask him for an explanation."
"Fitzwilliam?!" Darcy gasped.
"You have been acting very strangely for several months. Your behaviour has been quite unaccountable until I read these…" Georgiana explained, while reaching down onto her lap and placing on the desk the letters Colonel Fitzwilliam had written Darcy.
"Georgiana!" Darcy bellowed. "You have been searching though my desk?!"
Georgiana's eyes flew wide open at Darcy's outburst, but her resolve did not waiver. "No, I've been searching your coat pockets actually. You tend to stuff your very important papers in your pockets. I suppose you want to keep them close to you."
"You had no right!"
"I have every right!" she interrupted. "William, you have been very upset for some time. It is my job to look after you. I would have never invaded your privacy had I not thought it of the utmost importance. Normally, you do not confide in many people, but for the last several months, you have confided in no one. I had to find out what troubled you. If the methods I used were beneath me, I am sorry, but I did it for your well being."
Darcy turned and was about to leave the room when Georgiana called out, "When were you going to tell me that Miss Bennet was engaged to Richard?" He stopped cold. "I would have found out eventually…"
"Fitzwilliam swore me to secrecy," he responded softly, still turned away from his sister.
"I am sorry, William… I suppose that he really loves her."
Darcy shook his head slowly, "Then you suppose wrongly. He does not love her. I don't know if he ever did."
"What do you mean?"
Darcy reached into his pocket, pulled out the last letter from Colonel Fitzwilliam, and walked over to her. "Read this. I received it just before you arrived at Pemberley," he replied sadly.
Darcy studied Georgiana's expressions while she was reading. She gasped and her eyes grew wide at the mention of Brenda McBride. At the conclusion, she looked up at him, "Good God! Whatever can this mean?"
"I don't know."
"Another letter came for you from Richard while you were in London. I brought it from Pemberley with me!" Quickly, Georgiana reached into the desk drawer, grabbed it, and handed it to her brother.
Darcy tore open the seal as Georgiana jumped up and rushed around the desk to stand next to him. She leaned in beside him as they both began to read the letter.
Dear Darcy,I have not received a response from you after my last letter, which surprised me. You have always been a very diligent correspondent. Perhaps you are busy with your charming guests at Pemberley.
I wanted to write you to inform you that my regiment is throwing a ball. Miss McBride loves balls and suggested to me that I have our regiment host one. Not wanting to disappoint so lovely a lady, I consented immediately. The ball will be six weeks from now. I am hoping that you will be so good as to come to Scotland for it. I know that you generally do not enjoy such amusements, but I can insure that the company will be enchanting.
Yours &c.
Richard Fitzwilliam
Georgiana gasped and Darcy fumed while reading the letter. "How could he!" she exclaimed. "He did not even mention his fiancée! He couldn't be falling in love with someone else, could he?"
Darcy crumpled the letter angrily. "He is foolish enough for anything!" he growled while beginning to pace about the room.
Georgiana stood staring at the floor for a moment, lost in thought. After a minute, she looked up, "You must save her, you know."
He stopped in his tracks. "What?"
"He clearly does not love her, and I doubt she loves him. You must save her from an imprudent marriage."
Darcy's mind raced. "What do you mean that she doesn't love him?"
"I saw the way she looked at you. William, she is hopelessly in love with you!" Georgiana laughed at her brother's ignorance.
"But she is engaged to Fitzwilliam…"
"That has hardly stopped him."
Darcy shook his head, "It isn't that simple."
"What isn't simple? You love her, she loves you. Marry her!" urged Georgiana.
Darcy shook his head again. "You don't know all of the particulars. There is more impeding the relationship than just Fitzwilliam."
"What other hindrance could there be?"
Darcy sighed, "In that Elizabeth has an older sister who she loves dearly. Her sister Jane is a very sweet girl, and Bingley was very fond of her."
Georgiana looked puzzled. "And this causes a problem?"
"Bingley wanted to marry Miss Bennet. I separated the two and convinced him not to marry. Apparently, it broke Miss Bennet's heart."
"Why did you do that?" Georgiana exclaimed.
Darcy pondered the question a moment before answering, "I thought that Miss Bennet did not care for Bingley. Her calm demeanour convinced me that she was not in love with him. I did everything in my power to separate the pair."
"And does Miss Bennet really love him?"
"I am not sure. Miss Elizabeth Bennet is convinced that she does and she knows her sister best, but…"
"But?"
"Still, I did not see any of the marks of love."
Georgiana shook her head. If my brother could not clearly see that Miss Elizabeth Bennet was in love with him, it is no wonder he did not see that Miss Bennet was in love with his friend. "You must go to back to Hertfordshire. If Miss Bennet is still in love with Mr. Bingley, then you must help repair the damage you've caused. If she is not in love with him, then you are blameless. Either way, you must be certain."
"How do I drag Bingley back to Hertfordshire? Even the thought of it gives him pain."
Georgiana bit her upper lip while she tried to think of a reasonable idea. He must get Bingley to Hertfordshire without his sisters. I know them too well to believe they would promote the match. "Is there good hunting in the area?"
"Very," replied Darcy, with a gleam in his eye. He was starting to understand Georgiana's idea. "Perhaps I can suggest a hunting trip this fall."
"Yes, a hunting trip does have its advantages, namely, that the Bingley sisters will not want to accompany you."
Darcy smiled for a moment, but his face clouded over again. He remembered Wickham's connection to the family. "There is another barrier to my proposed union with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, one that you will not find pleasant. Come, sit here. I will tell you why I came to London and what I've been doing here," he said while pulling one of the chairs away from the wall and gently guiding her to the seat.
Chapter 31
It is done. God help me, it is done, Darcy somberly thought. As the carriage pulled away from the church, he took one last glance. He saw before him the picture of an ecstatic bride, a smiling groom, and a very unhappy aunt and uncle. Like he did, the Gardiners knew all too well the life of misery that Lydia Bennet consigned herself to.
Darcy shuddered to think that his own sister barely escaped the fate that lay ahead for Lydia. Even though Lydia's marriage removed one barrier between he and Elizabeth and put Georgiana permanently out of Wickham's reach, he could not rejoice. He knew that the future would be bleak for her and he only felt pity for the day she realizes her error.
As he watched the scenery change as the carriage drove towards his house, his mind turned to Georgiana. She handled the news of Wickham's conduct and marriage well. Bravely, she had been trying to conceal her pain. While she had refused Wickham last time she faced him, clearly it was her head, and not her heart that spoke. Darcy could not doubt that she still cared for him, and her recovery could take some time.
Darcy had tried to offer the comfort that she had been able to provide him. However, he knew that there was little he could do. Despite her growing maturity, she still looked up to him in awe as a father figure. In her mind, she placed him on a pedestal, which made it difficult to confide in him.
However, Darcy knew he could not fault only his sister's opinion. He realized that he possessed a naturally taciturn, serious disposition. Instead of being inviting and warm, he often appeared cold and distant, without ever intending to appear thus.
Elizabeth would be the perfect cure. Georgiana liked her and could, in time, learn to trust and rely on her. How many things are resting on the upcoming trip to Hertfordshire? How many people's happiness depends on a favourable outcome? Darcy nervously considered how important the trip would be, yet looked forward to it with eager anticipation.
Chapter 32
Georgiana sat in the drawing room of her brother's London home feeling very content. Darcy left for Hertfordshire in high spirits scarcely more than a week earlier. He seemed exhilarated at the thought that he would see Elizabeth again. However, Georgiana detected some hesitation in his manner. He had some doubts that he could not overcome. As precarious as the engagement between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth appeared, nonetheless, they were still engaged. Even if they were not engaged, he still harboured doubts that Elizabeth could ever forgive him for the role he played in dividing Bingley from Jane.
Georgiana did not share Darcy's opinion that the problems were so dire. Clearly Bingley still loved Jane and if the feeling was mutual, it would only be a matter of time before past wrongs were corrected, especially if Darcy gave Bingley a little nudge in the right direction. As for the engagement, it seemed perfectly reasonable that neither Colonel Fitzwilliam nor Elizabeth would want to end it by letter. On Fitzwilliam's side, he was a man of honour. If Elizabeth really loved him, he would go through with his commitment and marry her, even though he did not return the sentiment. On Elizabeth's side, it would be foolish and rash to break off an engagement to Fitzwilliam in favour of his cousin by letter. It seemed perfectly reasonable that Elizabeth would wait until after his assignment in Scotland was over to tell him how she felt.
Yet, despite Georgiana's assurances, Darcy could not be convinced. He still turned the situation over and over again in his head. "All of this worrying won't improve the situation," she warned. He only nodded in response, but his actions betrayed his inner turmoil. Weeks went by and his behaviour and attitude never improved. Anxiety began to wear thin lines on his otherwise young and handsome face.
Georgiana was glad the day he left. She was not only excited that he was going to Hertfordshire, but she was relieved that he would not be pacing around the house any longer.
Therefore, it was a great shock to her when Darcy returned after being away for barely more than a week. She had anticipated that he would be in Hertfordshire for at least a month, if not longer. Georgiana was sitting in the drawing room with Mrs. Annesley doing some needle work when she heard a great commotion at the door. Within twenty seconds, she saw her brother walk by the room on the way to his study.
Quickly, she put aside her needlework and rushed to go find her brother. Upon reaching the closed study door, she knocked.
"Come Georgiana," her brother replied in an irritated voice.
She entered to see her brother standing at the window, looking outside. She closed the door, walked to his side, and stared outside as well.
"What are we looking for?" she asked quietly.
Irritated, he replied, "I am not in the humour for jokes."
"I'm not joking. I've never understood why you turn your back on others and stare out of windows," she carefully responded. "Are you looking for answers? Are you trying to see into the future? Or are you trying to hide your emotions from others?"
"Perhaps, a little of each."
"I take it that things did not go well in Hertfordshire?"
"No, they did not."
Georgiana turned to her brother, clasped his hands, and forced him to turn towards her. "I will not allow you to hide so easily from me. What happened? Did Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet not work out their differences?"
Darcy shook his head and stared at the ground. "No, it is nothing like that. Miss Elizabeth Bennet was correct. Miss Bennet does love Bingley. I suspect that it won't be long now before they are engaged."
"Then why have you returned?"
Unable to lift his eyes to meet hers, he sighed. "I could not stand to be in her presence any longer. She will never care for me as I do her. It was torture to see her everyday. I wanted to take her into my arms and open my heart to her, but the void between us is insurmountable. It is hopeless," he sadly murmured.
"I don't understand. What went wrong? How do you know that she will never love you?" Georgiana asked while desperately searching his face.
Darcy slowly shook his head, "She rarely spoke to me. She rarely looked at me. I'm sorry Georgiana, but she will never love me."
Georgiana reached up and lifted Darcy's chin, forcing him to look her in the eye. "Did you speak to her? Did you look at her? I know you too well. You were probably quiet and stared at the ground or out a window, didn't you?"
Darcy looked at his sister sheepishly. "I suppose I wasn't as talkative as I could have been. But how can I carry on idle conversation when my heart is breaking? If I loved her less, perhaps I could say more. But you know what I am..."
Georgiana sighed, "You must return to Hertfordshire. You must open your heart to her or you will always regret it."
Darcy sadly shook his head. "No, I will not return. I cannot endure it."
"Well, if you are correct about the upcoming marriage of Mr. Bingley to Miss Bennet, then you must return at least once."
Darcy contemplated her statement a moment. "Yes, I will attend the wedding, but I will not return to Hertfordshire before then."
Georgiana smiled. Next time he goes to Hertfordshire, I will accompany him. It appears that Mr. Bingley isn't the only one who needs some encouragement.
Chapter 33
After returning from Hertfordshire, Darcy returned to his old habits of going to the club to pass the time, but nothing could satisfy him. Georgiana watched her brother's actions carefully. She tried not to hover over him, however she was concerned.
She loved and adored her brother, but she was not blind to his faults. To most of the world, he was a serious, demanding, imposing man. However, Georgiana knew that it was only a façade he wore. At his heart and soul, he was shy and reticent to share his true feelings with anyone. His mask could easily mislead a person who did not know him well, while only someone who was well acquainted with his manners could look beyond it. She was convinced that if Elizabeth could only see into his heart, Elizabeth would love him as much as she did. However, getting beyond the outer shell was difficult. As much as she prodded him, Darcy would not reveal his true feelings.
One week after Darcy's return, Georgiana was in the music room practicing on her piano forte when he came home. He immediately came into the room and settled in a nearby chair to listen. As she played, she stole glances at her brother. His face was pale and lined. It seemed as if he had aged ten years in just a week.
At the conclusion of her piece she turned to him, "William, it is a lovely day. Will you not accompany me outside? I would so like to take a walk."
"Georgiana, I do not wish to go outside again," he sighed. "Why doesn't Mrs. Annesley accompany you?"
"Please?" she pleaded.
Darcy looked at her and smiled weakly. "If it means that much to you..."
"It does."
"Then I will accompany you," he mumbled while rising from his chair.
Soon they were outside, arm in arm, walking down the street. Darcy was not paying any attention to where they were headed. He just absentmindedly nodded to anyone they passed, whether he knew them or not.
After walking for about ten minutes without saying a word, Georgiana finally spoke, "It is a lovely day, isn't it?"
Darcy nodded.
"The trees are quite pretty, aren't they?"
Darcy nodded.
"The birds are singing a sweet song, do you not agree?"
Darcy nodded.
"The sky is falling, isn't it?"
Darcy nodded.
"Oh William, you aren't even listening to me!" scolded Georgiana.
"What? Excuse me? Oh I'm sorry," he replied with a pat on her hand, "I am just distracted."
"You are always distracted. It does you no good to mope if you do not try to speak with her," came the answer.
Darcy glared. "You know my opinion on the subject," he countered in a clipped tone.
She ignored him and continued, "You are wrong William and you are suffering for it. It pains me to see you this way."
"Do not trouble yourself. I am perfectly capable of handling my own affairs."
Georgiana frowned at him. While shyness and reticence were among his characteristics, so was the infamous Darcy stubbornness.
Darcy saw the look of displeasure on her face, "Perhaps we should return to the house," he suggested.
"Yes, I believe that will be for the best."
The Darcys walked back to their home and immediately upon turning the corner of their block, recognized the carriage standing outside. Georgiana's eyes flew wide open as Darcy groaned, "Oh no. It's Lady Catherine."
Chapter 34
"Forgive us for keeping you waiting Aunt Catherine. We were unaware that we should expect a visit from you," Darcy said while entering the drawing room. Georgiana stood just behind him and to the side, allowing Darcy to partially shield her from Lady Catherine.
For as long as she could remember, Georgiana had been afraid of her aunt. Lady Catherine's manners were too imposing and abrupt to make her feel at ease. When she was young, she would not leave her father's side when facing Lady Catherine. Often, the young child would cling to her father's leg and hide behind him, which only served to further irritate her aunt. Even when she grew older, she often used her father, and later Darcy, David, or Colonel Fitzwilliam to hide behind.
Lady Catherine and Anne had been waiting for Darcy and Georgiana's return for several minutes. As she sat facing the door of the drawing room, Lady Catherine clearly wore her displeasure on her face and Anne sat next to her, looking very cross as well.
"Darcy, I did not think that a visit would be necessary so I did not inform you of my arrival first. However, I have just returned from Hertfordshire and am most seriously displeased. I decided that I must see you immediately," Lady Catherine began.
Darcy was genuinely perplexed. "Hertfordshire? I don't understand."
"A report of an alarming nature reached me three days ago. It claimed that you were to be engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I instantly knew that this was a scandalous falsehood and must be put to rest. Yesterday, I was in Hertfordshire to speak with the girl, but was not satisfied. I knew that I must come speak to you so that you can put the rumours to rest," Lady Catherine declared.
"What did Miss Elizabeth Bennet say that offended you so?" Darcy asked, barely being able to contain his curiosity.
"She is an obstinate, imprudent, headstrong girl. She refused to answer my questions directly. She preferred to be coy. She was rude! Though she admitted that the two of you were not engaged, she refused to promise that you would never be engaged. No doubt her family has an eye on your fortune! Can you imagine such an upstart fancying herself marrying you? Especially after the infamous elopement of her sister to George Wickham! She actually expects that you will want to be connected with such a family. Uncles who are in trade, a brother who is a libertine, it disgusts me."
Darcy took a deep breath and answered patiently, "Thank you Aunt Catherine for your information. I know what I must do."
"I know what you must do, you must announce your engagement to Anne immediately. That will put to rest the rumours!" Lady Catherine demanded.
Georgiana barely stifled a gasp as her eyes flew open and she instinctively grabbed her brother's hand.
Darcy considered her statement for a moment and answered carefully, "I do not believe that engaging myself to Anne right now would be the wisest course. As you have said yourself, the rumour is that I am already engaged or on the brink of it. It will look as if I cannot honour my promises unless I first put to rest the rumours about my attachment to Miss Bennet. Otherwise, I may bring disgrace to my family name."
Lady Catherine nodded her head. "You are too fastidious. However, perhaps it is best to be cautious when protecting your name. Very well."
After Darcy's response satisfied her, Lady Catherine did not stay much longer. She left after issuing a few more commands to her niece and nephew.
Georgiana was never as relieved to be out of anyone's presence as she was to be rid of her aunt. Darcy, however, seemed very thoughtful upon Lady Catherine's departure.
"What is troubling you William?" Georgiana inquired.
"Miss Bennet's response to Lady Catherine was most strange, do you not agree?"
Georgiana looked confused as she answered, "Our aunt often brings out the worst in people, perhaps that is the reason for her rudeness, if she was indeed rude."
"No, that is not what troubles me. Why didn't she promise to never engage herself to me? She is a very honest and frank person and would not hesitate to make such a declaration, especially after being provoked... Unless..." He turned to Georgiana and looked at her with a gleam in his eye. "Perhaps you are correct. Perhaps I should return to Hertfordshire."
"No, you should not go to Hertfordshire…"
"No? But you have been urging me to leave ever since I returned," Darcy anxiously countered.
"You should not go without me," she corrected.
Chapter 35
Darcy and Georgiana set out the next morning for Netherfield. It was a long trip, but the occupants of the carriage spoke little. Both were too anxious to be equal to much conversation.
When Darcy and Georgiana arrived at Netherfield, both were pleased to discover that Bingley was not at home. He was at Longbourn dining with the Bennets. Darcy and Georgiana settled into the library to read and await Bingley's return.
When Bingley came home that evening, he was surprised to discover them waiting. "Darcy, Georgiana, I am very happy to see you! I have some good news. I asked Miss Bennet to marry me and she has accepted!" he declared as soon as he walked into the library. His faced glowed with excitement.
Both Darcy and Georgiana rose to greet their host and express their joy. Darcy smiled and shook Bingley's hand, "My most sincere congratulations. I am very happy for you."
"Will you be my groomsman when the happy day occurs?" Bingley eagerly burst forth.
"Of course."
"Forgive me Darcy, I am so excited about the news I have lost all of my senses. I am glad that you have returned. I trust you had a good trip. Georgiana, I am very glad that you came with your brother. I hope you will stay here at least until the wedding, if not longer!" Bingley replied in a rushed and distracted manner.
"Thank you, Mr. Bingley," Georgiana smiled. "I will be happy to stay. Are you sure my unexpected arrival is not inconvenient?"
"Not at all!" Bingley declared. "The more the merrier! I will be happy to introduce the whole world to my dear Jane! You should both come to Longbourn with me tomorrow!"
"No, but thank you Mr. Bingley," Georgiana interrupted. "I think it best that only my brother accompany you tomorrow. I do not wish to impose on the Bennets. I will call on them after my brother has announced my arrival."
Both Darcy and Bingley looked at Georgiana with surprise. "I am sure they will not mind your presence Georgiana," Bingley continued. "You are not a stranger to the whole family, you know. Miss Elizabeth Bennet, I believe, is quite fond of you and it won't be long before the whole family adores you."
"I do not wish to trespass on their kindness. I believe it will be best if William announces my arrival first," Georgiana answered resolutely.
"Very well, as you wish," Bingley replied. "Well, I am sure that Fosset settled you into your rooms comfortably. If you will excuse me, I think I must change out of these muddy boots." Bingley smiled and quit the room.
As soon as Bingley was out of hearing range, Darcy turned to Georgiana. "What do you mean that you are not accompanying me to Longbourn tomorrow? I thought that you wanted to see Miss Bennet?"
"Allow me to explain, my sole purpose here is to advise you on how to proceed with Miss Bennet, not to get in the way. I think it best that you have as many opportunities alone with her as possible. If I accompany you, then I must naturally stay by your side and that will not do," Georgiana answered.
Darcy laughed, "You do not trust me to my own devices?"
"Your devices have not worked thus far."
"Touché," Darcy replied softly.
"Don't worry, you will carry the day yet."
"With a little help from you?" he said with a wink.
"Exactly," Georgiana proclaimed. "Now tomorrow I want you to be as charming and witty as you can muster. You must get her alone to express your true feelings."
"Yes ma'am. I will try."
"Do not try William," she warned. "Just do it!"
Chapter 36
Early the next morning, Bingley and Darcy set out for Longbourn. Upon the gentlemen's arrival, Darcy quickly saw that the engagement between Bingley and Jane only served to heighten Mrs. Bennet's previous behaviour. She fawned over Bingley more now that he was to become her son, while showing even greater contempt for Darcy.
After several uncomfortable minutes in the drawing room, Bingley finally thought of a way to escape Mrs. Bennet's attention. "This is a fine day. Should we perhaps all walk towards Meryton?"
Jane and Elizabeth readily agreed. Soon Jane, Bingley, Darcy, Elizabeth, and Kitty set out towards Meryton, leaving Mrs. Bennet behind.
While walking on the footpath, Elizabeth and Darcy allowed Jane and Bingley to quickly outpace them, giving the couple some privacy without the appearance of any impropriety. Jane and Bingley walked off, so consumed with each other's presence, they scarcely knew where they were headed.
Kitty was silent while walking with Elizabeth and Darcy. She was intimidated by him and looked for some means of escape. As the threesome passed near Lucas Lodge, Kitty finally gained enough courage to ask, "Lizzy, do you mind if I just run down the lane here to call on Maria Lucas?"
"No, not at all," Elizabeth replied.
Kitty quickly ran down the lane towards Lucas Lodge, happy to be away from them.
Darcy and Elizabeth continued on in awkward silence. They walked side by side for several minutes without a word passing between them. Darcy searched in vain for the words and the courage to address her. How shall I tell her how I feel? Will words fail me? Have I misjudged the situation?
Elizabeth looked very anxious. Finally she began the speech she had been preparing for sometime, "Mr. Darcy, I can go no longer without thanking you for your kindness to my poor sister. Ever since I have known of it, I have been most anxious to tell you how grateful I am for my family and for myself. You must not blame my aunt for telling me. Lydia betrayed it first and then I couldn't rest until I knew everything. I know what trouble and mortification it must have cost you. Please let me say this, please allow me to thank you on behalf of all my family since they do not know to whom they are indebted."
This is precisely what I did not want, he thought while listening to Elizabeth, I did not want her to feel gratitude towards me. Love and respect, yes, but not gratitude or indebtedness. "If you will thank me, let it be for yourself alone. Your family owes me nothing. As much as I respect them, I believe I thought only of you."
Elizabeth blushed upon hearing Darcy's answer. "I thank you Mr. Darcy, however, I do not believe I deserve such kindness, especially from you. I have judged you so wrongly in the past. I suppose that your kindness must stem from my connection to your cousin."
Darcy fell silent again. She admitted that she judged me incorrectly in the past. Can it mean that her feelings towards me are altered? Is this too much to hope for?
Elizabeth studied Darcy's face before continuing, "Mr. Darcy, as you may know, I have heard nothing from your cousin since he left for Scotland. Even before he left, I only received one letter from him since we last saw each other at Rosings. Is he well?"
"Yes, he is. Very well I believe," Darcy answered quietly. "I believe that he is much engaged with his regiment and spends his spare time reading poetry."
"Poetry?" she asked.
"John Donne, I believe..." Darcy's voice trailing off to a whisper. Darcy looked over at his companion. She grows more beautiful every time I see her, he thought. Gently, he reached out his hand and took her hand in his. He held it for a second before he stopped walking.
Surprised by his movement, Elizabeth stopped and turned towards him, her eyes searching his face.
As Darcy gazed upon her face while clasping her hand, his words failed him. Finally, he looked deep into her eyes and said, "The only John Donne poem I can recall at the moment is 'Sweetest Love, I Do Not Go'.
Sweetest love, I do not go,
For weariness of thee,
Nor in hope the world can show
A fitter love for me;
But since that I
At the last must part, 't is best,
Thus to use myself in jest
By feigned deaths to die.Yesternight the sun went hence,
And yet is here today;
He hath no desire nor sense,
Nor half so short a way.
Then fear not me,
But believe that I shall make
Speedier journeys, since I take
More wings and spurs than he.O how feeble is man's power,
That if good fortune fall,
Cannot add another hour,
Nor a lost hour recall;
But come bad chance,
And we join to it our strength,
And we teach it art and length,
Itself o'er us to advance.When thou sigh'st, thou sigh'st not wind,
But sigh'st my soul away;
When thou weep'st, unkindly kind,
My life's blood doth decay.
It cannot be
That thou lovest me as thou say'st,
If in thine my life thou waste,
That art the best of me.Let not thy divining heart
Forethink me any ill;
Destiny may take thy part,
And may thy fears fulfill.
But think that we
Are but turned aside to sleep.
They who one another keep
Alive, ne'er parted be."
At the end of the poem, Darcy brought Elizabeth's hand to his lips and lightly kissed it. Elizabeth blushed deeply and began, "M-m-mr. Darcy, I..."
"No, please Elizabeth," Darcy interrupted, "please allow me to say this... Please allow me to tell you..."
"Lovely poem," called a familiar male voice behind Darcy. "It is indeed the exact one I read every night before I close my eyes."
Darcy blanched and quickly dropped Elizabeth's hand. "Fitzwilliam!"
Chapter 37
Darcy whirled around to see the smiling face of his cousin approaching. "F-f-fitzwilliam," Darcy stammered, "how long have you been behind us?"
"Just long enough to hear the end of the poem," came the reply.
"Richard," gasped Elizabeth, her face flush with embarrassment, "I am surprised to see you."
"That was the plan, dearest," he answered with a smile. "I arrived at your house just a few minutes after you left. Your sister Mary told me that I might find you, your two sisters, Bingley, and Darcy walking along this path. I immediately set out to find you. From a distance, I saw that you were having an intense discussion with my cousin, so I didn't want to burst upon you. I walked up behind Darcy, using him to help shield my approach. I am sorry if I startled you both," Colonel Fitzwilliam said innocently.
Darcy's mind whirled. If he was behind me, he didn't see me kiss her hand.
Elizabeth struggled to gain her composure. "Startled? You didn't startle us. We are just both shocked to see you... A-a-at least I am. What are you doing here?"
Fitzwilliam grinned. "My assignment in Scotland is finished. As soon as it was completed, I rushed here to be by your side."
"And how was your assignment in Scotland?" Darcy interrupted, as he eyed Fitzwilliam warily.
"Very amusing. I enjoyed my time there very much. You should have visited me. I'm sure the surroundings would have delighted you as well," he answered.
Amusing?! Delighted?! The nerve! I never imagined Fitzwilliam as cold as this! Darcy fumed.
"Well, I... Ah..." Elizabeth struggled to find something to say. The red blush of her cheeks now faded to a white, chalky colour. She looked at the ground, unable to lift her eyes to look at either man.
"Your sister mentioned that the others were with you. Where are they?" Fitzwilliam asked Elizabeth.
"Kitty went to call on Maria Lucas and Jane and Charles have walked ahead," she explained.
"Ah, giving the lovers a little privacy?" Fitzwilliam answered with a chuckle.
Darcy glared at his cousin, his eyes betraying the rage he felt. He is the biggest cad I have ever had the misfortune of meeting. I cannot believe he is standing here addressing Elizabeth as if he has not been unfaithful. I will make him sorry for what he has done!
"Fitzwilliam, Miss Bennet, I will leave you now. Fitzwilliam, I am staying at Netherfield with Bingley. You must come to see me there. I have something very important to discuss with you," Darcy said in an even tone, though his face reflected his anger.
Elizabeth still could not bring herself to look up at either man and did not see Darcy's countenance. However, Fitzwilliam looked at his cousin quizzically, "Of course. I will call on you shortly."
"Very good. Good day Miss Bennet," Darcy said with a deep bow, then he quickly left.
Darcy stormed back to Longbourn, mounted his horse, and galloped back to Netherfield. During the ride back, he incessantly cursed. "Why did you ever accompany me to Rosings? Why did you arrive when you did? Why did you arrive at all? Why didn't I tell her everything earlier? Why was I so arrogant before?"
As soon as Darcy arrived at Netherfield, he leapt off of his horse and stormed inside. He walked directly to Bingley's study and slammed the door shut.
Georgiana had been in the music room practicing on the piano forte when Darcy entered the house. She could hear the door slamming shut reverberating throughout the house. Immediately, she stopped what she was playing and rushed to the study. She knocked on the door and waited. After half a minute, she knocked louder.
"What?!" Darcy bellowed.
"Let me in," Georgiana begged.
"No!"
"William please? You must!"
"Go away Georgiana. I do not wish to talk to you."
"No, I will not leave. Let me in," she insisted.
After a minute, he finally opened the door and glared at her. "Go away!"
Georgiana was frightened, but stood her ground. "No, you will talk to me. I insist."
"You are being rather stubborn."
"I am a Darcy."
Darcy let out an exasperated sigh, "So you are. Very well. Enter at your own risk," he growled while walking back inside the room.
Georgiana entered the room unsteadily, but nevertheless, closed the door behind her. "What is wrong?"
"Fitzwilliam."
Georgiana puzzled over his statement, "But we've discussed this before William..."
"I know," he snapped, "Fitzwilliam is here."
Georgiana's eyes opened wide as Darcy folded his arms across his chest. "Any ideas on what I should do? Other than skewer him, which I have half a mind to do?" he demanded.
Georgiana stopped and considered the question carefully before answering, "You must confront him."
"I know that," Darcy replied crisply, fire blazing in his eyes.
"No William, you are not understanding me. You aren't thinking clearly," she pleaded. "You must confront him with his duplicity. Give him a chance to act honourably."
"How do you propose I do that?"
Georgiana tried to smile comfortingly at him. "I have an idea..."
Chapter 38
Colonel Fitzwilliam arrived at Netherfield an hour later. Upon arriving, Fosset led him directly to the study. As Fitzwilliam entered, he looked around the room and chuckled. "Bingley certainly decorates strangely. I have not seen a room with all of the furniture moved to one wall since I accidentally broke a vase at Pemberley and was called to your father's study. How old was I? Nine? Ten?"
Darcy sat behind the desk glaring at the figure standing in front of him. "Fitzwilliam, I did not summon you here to discuss the past," he began grimly.
"Yes, well," Fitzwilliam said while clearing his throat. His smile quickly faded to match Darcy's demeanour. "I can only imagine you called me here to discuss Georgiana."
"Georgiana?" Darcy interrupted.
"Yes, I passed her in the hall. I can only imagine that she been in some sort of trouble or you wish to keep her away from trouble. That is why she is here on a shooting party, correct?"
"No, it is not Georgiana's behaviour that I have brought you here to discuss. It is yours," said Darcy sternly.
"My behaviour? What have I done?"
Ignoring the question, Darcy asked, "Have you asked Mr. Bennet for his daughter's hand yet?"
"No," Fitzwilliam answered while furrowing his brow. "What is this all about?"
"Simple, I want you to sign this and give it to Miss Bennet," answered Darcy while pulling a letter out from the desk.
Fitzwilliam walked to the desk and took the paper from Darcy's hand. He quickly skimmed it before bursting out, "This letter tells Elizabeth that I want to break the engagement!"
"Yes," Darcy stated crisply.
"You must be joking! I will never sign this! Why this outrage against me?" Fitzwilliam shouted.
"You have been unfaithful to Miss Bennet," Darcy stated evenly.
"What?!"
"You spent your time in Scotland chasing after Miss McBride and who knows how many other women. I will not allow you to disgrace yourself, your family name, Miss Bennet, and end up in an unhappy marriage," Darcy declared. "I will not allow this marriage."
"Is that what you think?" Fitzwilliam gasped.
"You seem to be obsessed with Miss McBride's money. I am prepared to pay you twenty thousand pounds if you do not marry Miss Bennet. That should keep you happy," Darcy shot back, while trying not to let his disgust or rage seep into his voice.
Shocked, Fitzwilliam asked, "And you would do this to keep me from disgracing myself, my family, Elizabeth, and prevent an unhappy marriage?"
"Yes."
"And you think I will marry Miss McBride or someone like her instead?"
"Yes."
Fitzwilliam stood looking at his cousin for several seconds before bursting into laughter.
Darcy slammed his fist down on the desk and jumped up. "This is not a laughing matter Fitzwilliam!"
"I'm sorry," replied Fitzwilliam while trying to regain his composure. "It's just that I tried everything I could to lure you up to Scotland so I could introduce Miss McBride to you. I thought she would be a perfect match for you."
"What?" Darcy cried.
"I never had designs on Miss McBride except for where they related to you. I realized that with my marriage, you will have one less companion on your trips to Rosings and such. The happiness that I have found with Elizabeth is incomparable to anything I've ever known. I just wanted you to be as happy, or as happy as any person could be with a woman who is not Elizabeth. Darcy, I know that you look down upon Elizabeth's lack of connections and fortune, but she really is a treasure. I know that I am incredibly fortunate to have secured her affections. I am not worthy of her! I would never, nor could ever, do anything that would endanger our future together. I love her too deeply."
Darcy sank back into his chair. His face drained of all of its colour as he looked upon his cousin's beaming face. "You really do love her?" he asked slowly.
"Of course!" Fitzwilliam declared. "And I cannot believe you would think so ill of me. Do you think me incapable of making a commitment? Am I a man without scruples? Am I so heartless that I could hop from woman to woman without any thought? You make me sound as if I am a libertine or some stud for hire! Surely, you must know me better than that."
"But your letters..."
Fitzwilliam laughed. "My letters were designed to peak your interest in Miss McBride. I hoped to lure you up to Scotland with my descriptions of her beauty and intelligence. I suppose I am not a very good matchmaker."
"Indeed, you are not," Darcy mumbled.
Fitzwilliam grinned at his cousin, "I really should be angry with you for jumping to such conclusions, but my heart is too filled with joy to harbour any negative emotions. I suppose you were trying to save me from an imprudent marriage. And twenty thousand pounds was a generous offer..."
Darcy blankly stared at his cousin and nodded his head absentmindedly.
"Instead of the twenty thousand pounds, will you be my groomsman at my wedding?"
Darcy nodded his head slowly, though he hardly comprehended what he was agreeing to.
"Good, now if you will excuse me, I must rush back to Longbourn to meet Elizabeth's family and finally ask the question that I have been dreaming of for so long. Wish me luck!"
Darcy nodded his head slowly as his cousin smiled and left the room.
Chapter 39
Georgiana watched her cousin leave Netherfield with a smile on his face and a skip in his step. Puzzled, she went directly to the study. The door was open and Darcy sat behind the desk staring blankly in front of him. She entered the room cautiously, unsure of how to approach him. She took one of the chairs away from the wall and placed it in front of the desk and sat down. His face was pale and drawn. Clearly, the meeting had not gone well.
After half a minute of silence, Darcy whispered, "He loves her."
"I guessed as much by your reaction."
"He's going to marry her."
Georgiana tried to think of a response, but words failed her.
Darcy sighed, "It is done."
"You talk as if they are already married," said Georgiana. "It is not done, not yet."
Darcy sadly shook his head, "I'm sorry Georgiana, I know you wanted Miss Bennet as a sister but..."
"But nothing. They are not married yet."
"Please don't be unrealistic," Darcy soothed. "They are not married yet, but they soon will be."
Georgiana rose and began to pace around the room. "I don't understand. I don't understand their engagement. You told me that Richard only wrote to Miss Bennet once, which was to inform her that he was not able to go to Hertfordshire, correct?"
"Yes."
"And she only wrote him to acknowledge his letter, correct?"
"Yes."
"That does not seem like a couple much in love to me. To be separated all of these months without a single word to each other?"
"You forget that the engagement was still a secret. They could not write each other without fear of discovery. It wouldn't have been prudent."
Georgiana scowled. "Still, I would have thought that a couple passionately in love would have found a way to communicate with each other. Was Miss Bennet happy to see Richard?"
"I presume so."
Georgiana stopped pacing and turned towards Darcy, her face reflecting her confusion, "You presume so? Could you not tell if she was happy?"
"At the time she seemed embarrassed."
"Why?"
"Because I kissed her hand," Darcy meekly replied.
"Did she greet him with any affection?"
"No, but I was present at the time."
Georgiana shook her head. "But you know of the engagement, she had no reason to hide her regard. They had not seen each other for many months, I would have thought that Miss Bennet would have been more demonstrative. You have always told me that she does not believe in hiding her emotions. Why is she so guarded now? Unless..." Georgiana looked at Darcy with a smile on her lips and a gleam in her eye.
"Georgiana," Darcy warned, "Miss Bennet is Fitzwilliam's fiancée. I cannot and will not act dishonourably."
"And what if it is you that she truly loves?"
Darcy let out an exasperated sigh, "You don't understand. It is more than just friendship or family duty that prevents my action. I am greatly indebted to Fitzwilliam. More than I can ever repay..."
"And you intend to repay his kindness by allowing him to marry a woman who does not love him?" cried Georgiana.
"Please! No more!" Darcy interrupted as he jumped from his seat. "No more," he mumbled while exiting the room.
Chapter 40
It did not take long for the happy news of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth to spread throughout the neighbourhood. Soon everyone clamoured to meet the dashing Colonel, cousin to the intolerable Mr. Darcy. However, their hopes of meeting Fitzwilliam were disappointed. A day after his arrival in Hertfordshire, the Colonel continued on to London to report to the General about his duties in Scotland.
The morning after the Colonel left, Darcy and Georgiana accompanied Bingley to Longbourn. Georgiana could barely contain her curiosity. She was anxious to see Elizabeth again and see if she could still detect the symptoms of love in her look and manner.
As soon as they entered Longbourn, Georgiana instantly perceived the cause of Darcy's initial hesitation to marry Elizabeth. Mrs. Bennet greeted them as soon as they entered the sitting room, "Mr. Bingley we have been waiting anxiously for you. You know Mr. Bingley, you should have joined us for breakfast." Turning to Darcy, Mrs. Bennet could barely hide her disgust, "Oh Mr. Darcy, how good of you to call."
"I'm sorry Mrs. Bennet," Bingley began, "I had my friends to look after..."
"Oh yes, and you must be Miss Darcy," Mrs. Bennet said while nodding to Georgiana.
"Yes, this is my sister Mrs. Bennet," Darcy interrupted. "Georgiana, this is Mrs. Bennet, Miss Bennet, Miss Catherine Bennet, Miss Mary Bennet, and of course you know Miss Elizabeth Bennet."
"How do you do," Georgiana replied with a curtsey.
Mrs. Bennet looked at Georgiana carefully. "I have been very eager to meet you Miss Darcy. I understand that my future son is one of your guardians. I hope you are a good girl and do not give him much trouble," uttered Mrs. Bennet.
"Mama!" Elizabeth cried while blushing furiously. Anxious to change the subject and make Georgiana feel at ease, Elizabeth smiled at her. "Miss Darcy, I enjoyed my visits with you in Derbyshire very much. You are a wonderful hostess. I cannot begin to thank you enough for your kindness."
Georgiana, feeling quite awkward after Mrs. Bennet's outburst, could only just answer, "We enjoyed having you."
Feeling sympathy for the poor girl, Jane asked sweetly, "Are you enjoying your stay in Hertfordshire?"
"Very much, Miss Bennet," Georgiana shyly answered.
Bingley eagerly jumped in to the conversation, "I'm afraid I haven't been a very good host. Miss Darcy has seen little of the country. Shall we all take a walk so that she may view the surroundings?"
Jane and Elizabeth readily agreed. Soon, Jane, Bingley, Elizabeth, Darcy, Georgiana, and Kitty set out to go for a walk on the path to Hertfordshire.
It didn't take long before previous patterns renewed themselves. Elizabeth and Darcy walked very slowly to allow Jane and Bingley their privacy. Kitty and Georgiana walked side by side, following a few steps behind their siblings. Still intimidated by Darcy and now unsure of Georgiana, Kitty was very quiet, only occasionally stealing glances at Georgiana. For her part, Georgiana desperately tried to think of a way to leave Elizabeth and Darcy alone together, confident that if they were, their true feelings would be made known.
The foursome traveled in silence until Kitty saw Maria Lucas walking towards them. Kitty ran towards her and burst out, "Maria! What are you doing here?"
"My mother sent me on an errand to Meryton to buy some ribbon. I am trying to pretty up some of my old bonnets. They are looking quite boring," she answered. "Also, my mother wanted me to take a letter to town to be sent to my sister. Charlotte writes frequently and Mama is always eager to return her notes. Where are you going?"
"We are on another walk," explained Kitty with a roll of her eyes. "I will be happy when Jane and Mr. Bingley are married and we can stop going on these walks. You would think that they have toured all of England by now."
Just as Kitty finished speaking, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Georgiana caught up to her. "Good morning Maria," Elizabeth said while shooting Kitty an annoyed look. "Miss Darcy, this is our friend, Miss Maria Lucas. Maria, this is Miss Darcy."
As the two girls curtsied to each other, Kitty exclaimed, "You will have great fun making up your bonnet like new. May I help?" Elizabeth quickly glared at Kitty.
"Oh yes, that would be fun. And you are welcome too, Miss Darcy," Maria answered.
Georgiana didn't need to be asked twice. She immediately accepted and Maria, Kitty, and Georgiana set off for Lucas Lodge before Darcy or Elizabeth could utter a word.
Elizabeth and Darcy stood next to each other watching the three girls walk away. After they were out of sight, Elizabeth turned to Darcy. "I am sorry Mr. Darcy."
"Whatever for?"
"For everything," she sighed.
"Please do not trouble yourself," he soothed while reaching out and touching her hand. "Georgiana seems to like your sister and I'm sure the three will get along well."
"Thank you," replied Elizabeth, while starting to smile. "You are very kind."
Darcy gazed into Elizabeth's eyes and was rendered speechless for a moment. "Miss Bennet," he began wistfully.
"Yes, Mr. Darcy."
"Would you mind... Do I... Do I ask too much to have you not call me 'Mr. Darcy'? It seems so... distant... You will be family soon and I would prefer it if you call me something other than 'Mr. Darcy,' especially in private."
Elizabeth looked slightly puzzled, "What would you have me call you?"
"Fitzwilliam and Bingley call me 'Darcy,' but any name will do."
"How about 'Humphrey'?" she asked archly.
Darcy gave an exaggerated bow and replied in a serious tone, "If you wish."
Elizabeth began to giggle, but suddenly stopped upon looking deeply into his eyes. Breathless, she said, "Your sister calls you 'William,' I believe."
"Yes, she does," he whispered, while being drawn into her eyes.
"Well then, 'William' it is," she whispered back.
Darcy smiled. "Thank you, Miss Bennet."
"That will not do."
"Whatever is the matter?"
"You are 'William' and I am 'Miss Bennet'? That will not do," she replied with a shake of her head.
"All right, you be 'Humphrey'."
Elizabeth giggled, "Do I look like a 'Humphrey'?"
"Yes, you do," Darcy replied mockingly.
"Well, I would prefer it if you called me 'Lizzy,' 'Elizabeth,' or even 'Eliza' to 'Humphrey.'"
"No, you will never be 'Eliza' to me. 'Eliza' is what Miss Bingley calls you," said Darcy with an involuntary shudder. "Is 'Elizabeth' acceptable?"
Elizabeth nodded. "That will do very well William."
Elizabeth and Darcy stood silently for a moment, gazing into each other's eyes before Elizabeth asked softly, "Two days ago, you were about to tell me something just as Richard approached us. What was it?"
Darcy immediately looked down at the ground. He could see his cousin's joyous face smiling at him as his voice rang in his head, I love her too deeply. He slowly looked back up into Elizabeth's eyes, "Elizabeth... I..."