Section I, Next Section
Chapter 1 Posted on Friday, 17 December 1999
IT is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single woman in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a good, rich and noble husband.
However little known the feelings or views of such a woman may be on his first entering a neighbourhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that she is considered as the rightful property of some one or other of themselves or their sons.
"My dear Mr. Darcy," said Mrs. Darcy to him one day, "have you heard that Netherfield Park is let at last?"
Mr. Darcy replied that he had not.
"But it is," returned she; "for Mrs. Long has just been here, and she told me all about it."
Mr. Darcy made no answer.
"Do not you want to know who has taken it?" cried his wife impatiently.
"You want to tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it."
This was invitation enough.
"Why, my dear, you must know, Mrs. Long says that Netherfield is taken by a young lady of large fortune from Derbyshire."
"What is her name?"
"Bennet."
"Is she married or single?"
"Oh! single, my dear, to be sure! A single lady of large fortune; four or five thousand a year. What a fine thing for our family!"
"How so? how can it affect us?"
"My dear Mr. Darcy," replied his wife, "You must know that I am thinking of her marrying William or Charles."
"Is that her design in settling here?"
"Design! nonsense, how can you talk so! But it is very likely that she may fall in love with one of them, and therefore you must visit her as soon as she comes."
"I see no occasion for that. I think it is better to send the boys by themselves."
"But, my dear, you must indeed go and see Miss Bennet when she comes into the neighbourhood."
"It is more than I engage for, I assure you."
"But consider your family. Only think what an establishment it would be for one of them. Sir William and Lady Lucas are determined to go, merely on that account, for in general, you know they visit no new comers. Indeed you must go, for it will be impossible for us to visit her, if you do not."
"You are over-scrupulous, surely. I dare say Miss Bennet will be very glad to see the boys; and I will send a few lines with them to assure her of my hearty consent to his marrying which ever she wants of the boys."
"Mr. Darcy, how can you say such nonsense? You take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my poor nerves."
"You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these twenty years at least."
"Ah! you do not know what I suffer."
"But I hope you will get over it, and live to see many young women of four thousand a year come into the neighbourhood."
"It will be no use to us if twenty such should come, since you will not visit them."
"Depend upon it, my dear, that when there are twenty I will visit them all."
Mr. Darcy was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice, that the experience of nine and twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character. Her mind was less difficult to develop. She was a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain temper. When she was discontented, she fancied herself nervous. The business of her life was to get her sons and daughters married, since Longbourn was a small estate with a very small income that cannot support her son and three daughters, as well as their cousin Charles.
Chapter 2 Posted on Saturday, 18 December 1999
A week Later ....
Mrs. Darcy was still suffering from nerves from the previous week when her husband refused to visit Miss Bennet at Netherfield. Her case of nerves deteriorated when she heard from Lady Lucas that her husband Sir William intended to visit Miss Bennet the next day.
"OOOOOOOOH my poor nerves! William, please fetch your sisters to sit with me."
"Ok, mother."
"And tell your sister Mary to bring me a cup of tea with her. And let her stop playing music. Her music gets to my nerves these days."
William does not respond, waiting for his mother's next request.
"And let Hill fetch Charles from the grounds. I need him too by my side."
William reluctantly went to fetch his cousin and sisters, while still hearing his mother weeping her poor luck and poor nerves.
"Mary, stop reading this book and come to my side."
Mary does not seem to hear.
"Oh my poor nerves. My children do not obey me, and my husband ignores my wishes. Oh mother, I wish you were here to see what is happening to your daughter."
Mr. Darcy comes to the living room from the library upon hearing his wife's extraordinary cries, and talks to his nephew Charles:
"So Charles, when are you going to marry? I know that there are many young ladies in the area who wish that you will consider them!"
William replies instead, "But you know father, Charles is always in and out of love with women, and he probably considered all the young ladies in the area already."
Charles laughs and says, "But you know that whatever I do, William will criticize!" and in a lower voice, "And you know mother will not approve of any of them. She wants me to marry some rich lady even twice my age!"
Charles was used to refer to his aunt as 'mother' since he came to live with his uncle and aunt's family twenty years ago.
Mr. Darcy laughs and replies (but not in a lower voice), "Of course you know that your mother is concerned about you, and what will happen to you once I die."
William, who did not see a sense of humor in the situation, interferes, "But father, I never wish you to talk like this about yourself. I pray you will have many many more years to live."
Mr. Darcy continues his teasing, "but what will happen to you poor children after I die. You will be at the mercy of the Collins family, who will make sure to throw you all to the streets."
Mrs. Darcy cries, "Oh boys. Did you ever hear such heartless talk before? Your father really enjoys ruining my nerves. He did not even bother to visit Miss Bennet. Now she will not consider any of you a suitor for her and she will think we slighted her. Lady Lucas was very happy today when she told me her husband is going to visit Netherfield. I think she considers her son Charlie is marrying Miss Bennet already. She was much happier when I told her about your father. Oh my nerves! MARY, STOP READING AND LISTEN TO ME."
Mrs. Darcy was concerned about herself and her children. Though Longbourn was not a large estate, her husband's father wrote it in his will to her husband during his life only, and after that it would go to the family of her husband's brother. She was worried for the boys who will have to face the hardships of life without money, and more so for herself and her three daughters.
Mr. Darcy continued, "I hope Miss Bennet will like you, William"
Mrs. Darcy again cried, "How can she like him or even look at him if you did not visit her? I am sick of Miss Bennet!"
"Oh, I am sorry to hear it. If I knew as much this morning, I would not have visited her. But now I did, and there is no way to escape the acquaintance now."
Mrs. Darcy regained her complexion in a second and said, "Oh my dear husband. See boys what a good father you have! And such a joke too, that you visited her this morning and never said anything to any of us. I wish to see the look on the face of Lady Lucas now!"
Charles and William were curious to know more about Miss Bennet, but their father did not wish to satisfy their curiosity.
Lydia, the youngest daughter, entered the room at this moment with her older sister Kitty in an uproar.
"Oh mother, did you hear that. A militia is camped now in Meryton. Imagine that! All those officers in their uniform just twenty minutes walk from here."
William and Charles rolled their eyes and silently begged their father to interfere before their young sisters caused a scandal to the family, but Mr. Darcy chose not to.
Kitty continued, "And did you hear the latest news? The militia is going to attend the annual party next Thursday. And we also heard that the famous Miss Bennet is going too."
They continued in this manner for a few more minutes, before Charles and William excused themselves and went out for a walk.
Chapter 3 Posted on Tuesday, 21 December 1999
Meryton was a small town in Hertfordshire that was surrounded by some estates. The largest of these estates was Netherfield, which explains why the local people were thrilled when they knew it was occupied at last. Most of the local families hoped that their sons will add Netherfield to their property one day by marrying the young Netherfield owner.
Before The Thursday Party
This Thursday was the beginning of the fall in Meryton. The local people usually celebrated the beginning of the fall in a party held at the local club, in which they used to play some in-door games, and socialize with each other. These parties were always boring for the local gentlemen, who saw it as girls gathering! Nothing less than the present occasion would let most of them - with possible pressure from their families of course - come to such parties.
Mrs. Darcy yelled at her children, "Do make haste. I want us to be the first people to go to the assembly to welcome Miss Bennet. Charles, go to William . Fetch him from his room and tell him to get ready at once."
William had enough of his mother's shouts in the past few days that he chose to do like his sister Mary and sit all the time in his room, or like his younger sisters Kitty and Lydia who were seldom in the house.
"Coming, Mama. I know you are eager to attend this party," William shouts back from his room.
"I think your mother is very eager to have you meet the famous Miss Bennet. Perhaps you will be the lucky man who will secure Netherfield to our family," Mr. Darcy interfered, jokingly, as soon as he came out of the library.
William, who was usually harsh in his opinions of people outside his family, replied "I do not think I can connect myself with such a lady who comes to the neighborhood all by herself. Who does she think she is? Perhaps all she is looking for is to secure a noble husband from a well established family like ours. I think she must be a daughter of some tradesman or another."
Mr. Darcy, obviously upset with his son, replied "You should not be so severe on people, dear William. I know you are a good man and you will make some woman a very good husband, but this does not give you the right to talk in such a way about people. And remember that your uncle Gardiner is a tradesman too." He said these words in a lower voice that cannot be heard by Mrs. Darcy.
Charles told his uncle, "But Dad you know what William is like when he is in such a foul mood!"
Mrs. Darcy, irritated by her husband's conversation in which she had no share, yelled again, "Mr. Darcy. It is enough that you are not coming today to introduce us to Miss Bennet. Why should you also distract your sons and make them arrive late for the party? I think we should leave at once, or Lady Lucas is going to be there before us and secure Miss Bennet for her Charlie."
William thought, but the party is still two hours later.....
Aloud he said, "But we cannot leave without our sisters, who are not yet ready."
Mrs. Darcy, who was usually very proud of her younger daughters, especially Lydia, told him, "I do not think you could disappoint your mother as such! Oh my poor nerves.... Forget about these stupid girls. We do not need them today, since Miss Bennet cannot marry them!"
On a second thought she said, "Oh but there is going to be a lot of officers and maybe one of them is a Knight or something and may marry one of them!"
Then on third thought she yelled again, "But Miss Bennet! What will Lady Lucas and Mrs. Long say. Probably they are there already at the club. And all is because of you, foolish girls. Hurry up! Hurry up!" She said while bullying her daughters to the door.
At the local club
The Darcy party were among the first who came to the club, more than an hour before the party was to be held. As soon as Lydia and Kitty saw some officers, they hurried to them making their usual noise.
"Ah Mr. Denny, so here you are. We thought we would not see you today. I was just telling Harriet the other day that ......"
William and Charles were very displeased by the behavior of their younger sisters, but they could not interfere since their father did not want them to.
Mrs. Darcy at that time was talking loudly for all those in the club to hear, "You know Lady Lucas, your son Charlie has no chance at all with Miss Bennet. He is such a short stupid man. What is he in comparison with the tall and handsome William, or the nice cheerful Charles," she boasted.
Lady Lucas was of course not pleased to hear such talk, but she was however more quiet in her reply to Mrs. Darcy.
In the meanwhile, William Darcy and Charles Bingley accompanied their friend Charlie Lucas to a corner of the room to observe the party. They did not participate in the games due to various reasons. William and Charles were trying to take Charlie's mind away from the rude remarks made by their mother.
"So Charlie, what do you think of the famous Miss Bennet?" William started.
"It is too early to think of anything now, let alone say it!"
Charlie Lucas, at 34, was really a short man who could not be described as handsome, but he was by no means stupid. He was a friend of William, 28, and Charles, 26.
"But you know what I mean. Do you think she came here to marry you or me ?"
Charlie smiled, whereas Charles chuckled, "Probably not. She has come here after me of course. I bet I will engage her in the first cards game this evening, and you know the rest."
They continued in that manner until the Bennet party were announced...........
Chapter 4 Posted on Wednesday, 22 December 1999
All eyes in the room fell on the couple of elegant females who entered the room. They were announced as Miss Jane Bennet, new owner of Netherfield, and her sister, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. The two ladies were not alone, however. There was with them another young man, introduced as their cousin, Mr. Caroli de Bourgh. The contrast between the two sisters was obvious (No need to bore you here with description of the sisters you probably know by heart :) But the similarity of their good nature and well breeding was obvious to all. Well, not exactly all:
"Oh my dear boys, hurry up. Go and greet Miss Bennet and her sister." Mrs. Darcy talked in a quiet voice (well, quiet enough for only half the room to hear!).
The faces of William and Charles became red with embarrassment, but they were grateful at least that this remark seemed not to reach the half of the room in which the Bennets were standing.
Gossip was flowing in the room so quickly, that it was only after ten minutes that everyone in Meryton knew the basic facts they needed to know about the Misses Bennet. It was soon known that Jane, at 23, was the owner of Lambton Manor in Derbyshire, in addition to Netherfield, and her income was estimated to be about five to six thousand a year. The Lambton Manor was the Bennet family property for a long time, and since the family has no sons, the property fell on Miss Jane after the death of their father five years ago. The younger sister, Miss Elizabeth, was more of a mystery, however. This did not continue for a long time, since the gossiping servants promptly told their employers about her status. She was less than 21 years of age, and was supposed to be much richer than her older sister. The owner of Pemberley, Derbyshire, was a long time neighbor to the Bennets. His son died four years ago in the war, and since then he neglected his land and properties. His tenants were about to die of hunger due to the lack of management, but the interference of the young (not yet eighteen) Miss Elizabeth Bennet miraculously prevented it. She was very upset by the poor status of her neighboring farmers, that she decided, being the active person she is, to interfere. She voluntarily took upon herself the management of the Pemberley estate and lands. She was loved by all in the area, and with the wives of the tenants she managed to organize the plantation and rescue them all. The owner of Pemberley was very pleased with her that he left her Pemberley two years later when he died. All these facts were not known at the time for the Meryton people, but the basic facts were known: That she is less than 21, single, and with a fortune of more than ten thousand a year.
As soon as these facts were known, many of the local gentlemen tried to present themselves to the Bennets and their cousin Caroli, but the Bennet girls seemed to be reluctant to talk with those gentlemen, and their Cousin Caroli talked for the three of them.
Charles Bingley, however, was in another world. As soon as he set his eyes on Miss Jane Bennet, he knew that this time is going to be much different than before. He waited till the local gentlemen left the Bennet party in peace before introducing himself to Miss Bennet. Soon afterwards, they were lost in conversation and nobody could approach them without seeming as an intruder.
Caroli de Bourgh seemed to attach himself to Miss Elizabeth, who seemed not to enjoy his company that much. William Darcy saw her and thought she was a sensible woman, and started to approach her. Caroli sensed some danger from that quarter, and quickly managed to take William aside from the rest of the party and said, "Pray forgive my cousin, sir. What is your name by the way?"
"William Darcy."
"I am Caroli de Bourgh, and my father Sir Louis de Bourgh wants me to marry Miss Elizabeth. I am glad to oblige my father of course, but Miss Elizabeth is rather irritating at times. She keeps on insulting each and every one she lays her eyes upon to me. She was just telling me that you look like a country no-class nobody who wanted to approach the higher classes to go up the social ladder. I thought you heard her and so I got you here to apologize for my cousin's behavior."
William was shocked to say the least, but he had no reason to doubt the man, except that he looked like an arrogant jerk himself. He did not assume however that anyone can tell such types of lies about his own relatives, so he replied with the appearance of indifference as if he was not affected and left to talk to Charlie at once.
Elizabeth was watching the scene with interest, and her eyes sparkled as she saw her cousin talk to the stranger, who seemed to be a sensible man in her eyes. However, when she saw the face of that man after her cousin finished with him, she became rather concerned.
Charles and Jane were now in the middle of a game of cards, when he saw William standing in the room and staring blankly.
"William, please, I would rather have you play. There are a lot of other games which you can play."
"And whom shall I play with," William abruptly said, "You are playing with the only sensible woman in the room, and there is no other man or woman in the room with whom it is not a punishment for me to play with. You know I prefer mental games like chess, and I do not see anyone here who can stand up with me."
"I will not be so fastidious as you are, for a kingdom! I assure you there are a lot of other sensible people here. I was just discussing your love of chess with my partner, and she told me that her sister is excellent in the game. May I ask my partner to introduce you?"
William looked with the side of his eyes on Elizabeth, who seemed to be watching him with a sparkle in her eyes. This seemed to be a perfect chance to get even with her.
"She is tolerable enough in the game I assume, since her sister said that about her. But she is not intelligent enough to stand against me in chess," and in a lower voice, though still heard by Elizabeth, "nor even is she beautiful enough to compensate me for her lack of intelligence." "And I am not in the mood now to humble myself by playing against people who are not even good enough to play with Lydia. Go ahead Charles to your partner and enjoy your game. You are only wasting your time with me."
Charles listened to his advice and returned directly to his partner, though making a mental note to talk to William about it later.
Elizabeth heard every single word of this conversation, it seemed to him she was not a bit affected. She left her place at once with a face full of laughter, and looked at him with a side look before going to the other side of the room to talk with other women. She wanted to know more of the people in the area since it was in her nature to make a lot of friends.
Darcy was annoyed, and was even more so when he saw her laughing. What was she laughing at? Was she laughing at him? Impossible! Who could ever have the audacity to laugh at him, William Darcy, whose parents descend from a very noble family, though not that rich. She is really an arrogant spoiled woman who looks down on the country people, and he had to show all the Meryton inhabitants what she really was.
Chapter 5 Posted on Thursday, 23 December 1999
Netherfield, After the Party
Caroli de Bourgh said as soon as he was inside Netherfield, "Oh, what a boring society. I do not know how are we going to spend any amount of time with these people?"
Elizabeth, only out of respect for her uncle and aunt, ignored him, whereas the surprised Jane interrupted, "Cousin, how can you say so? I find them a very nice group of people!"
Elizabeth looked a meaningful look in the direction of her sister, as if to tell her : I know, I have seen how much you enjoyed it!
Caroli continued, as if he had not heard, "They have no propriety at all. Did you see that Mrs. Darcy. She was looking at both of you with predatory eyes, and she was voicing her opinions loud enough for half the room to hear. I heard her once say that her sons should hurry up to marry both of you before any other local men do. Have you ever heard of such nonsense before?"
Elizabeth did not reply this time too, though she thought that at least one of the sons will not have that honor! For the other son, she was not so certain. But he seemed to be a sensible man, and she had no objection of having Jane connected to him. As for the other one, no way! As handsome and good looking as he was, she will not even consider marrying anyone who was that arrogant. That is why she was still evading her cousin Caroli. William Darcy offended her in a way nobody has done before, and for no reason whatsoever. She could not imagine to hear such a thing from a perfect stranger. She talked to the local ladies who told her he was usually nice, but she had seen no evidence of it!
Caroli, unaffected by not receiving any reply from his cousins, continued, "And those local men who seem to share the same view as Mrs. Darcy. I did not see such a group before. They seemed to be a large group of gold-diggers! I have heard some of them being called handsome, but I have seen nothing of it. No style at all, I dare say. Their fashions are insupportable. I guess they are still from the twelfth century, don't you think?"
Elizabeth did not understand how a man, like her cousin, could show such an interest in fashion. This was one of the reasons she held him in contempt. She only let him in her company out of respect for her uncle.
"And the worst of all is that William Darcy. He thinks himself above the rest of mankind. Didn't you see how he looked upon us in contempt? Doesn't he know who we are?"
Elizabeth had enough for one day, and thought of stopping her cousin at once before he continues much longer, "I do not see your point cousin. Why should we care what he thinks of us? At least he was not one of the gold diggers and did not attempt to flatter us because we are rich!" Unlike you, she mentally noted.
Jane interfered before a quarrel starts between her sister and cousin, "I think I am very tired from that evening. I will retire at once. Would you come with me, Lizzy?"
Elizabeth, eager to get out of her cousin's company, said she would. She will fetch a book from the library and retire to her bedroom too.
Caroli thought, I knew this William Darcy was dangerous. I thought his remark earlier will prevent my cousin from falling for him, but obviously I did not succeed. Maybe I will make him next time flatter her so that she will think of him as another gold digger!
He did not know that there was no danger so far from the Darcy quarter, and that his cousin only said such words for him to shut him up! Lizzy, who viewed Darcy as a handsome, and maybe an intelligent, man, did not at all appreciate arrogance from anyone. She could not imagine what reason could have made him so rude to someone who did not do anything to provoke him. She certainly did not think she was above other girls, but at least he should show some respect for her. She did not like to think that her money makes her better than others, but she did not think herself (stupid and ugly) either!
Before she went to sleep, she was thinking, "What could have made him say such remarks about me? I certainly did not do anything wrong to him or to anybody so far in my life. He could not possibly have heard something wrong about me." Then a scene flashed through her mind. William Darcy coming to their party and Caroli taking him aside and talking to him. Caroli? Could it be possible? Could he be that mean? She did not know what to think, but now she had her suspicions and she will not rest unless she knew the truth.
Meanwhile, at Longbourn
"My dear Mr. Darcy. What a success this evening was for us. Charles played a lot with Miss Bennet and she seemed to like him a lot. I am sure that it will not be long before our Charles becomes the master of Netherfield!"
Mr. Darcy, as usual, ignored his wife. He thought that whatever he says will not stop her from talking, so he saved his breath. Charles and William were looking at each other with red faces at their mother's impropriety.
"She came with her sister, a Miss Elizabeth, and her cousin, a Mr. Caroli de Bourgh. Miss Elizabeth seemed to be a very nice young lady, and of a fortune of no less than ten thousand a year. I hope William can marry her."
William thought, "I do not know how would she be described if she was not as rich. Certainly not as very nice ."
"She talked to me for a short while, and said she thought Charles was a nice man. She even complimented me on raising such a son, and did not seem offended when I told her that he and Jane seem to like each other very much! She even asked me about William, and whether he is shy by nature. I told her that he is usually nice, but he is not at ease among strangers. I invited her and her party to dine at Longbourn on Saturday and she accepted. I do not know why she would ask such questions about William unless she had some interest in him."
William thought, "So she really talked to my mother about me? I wonder why. I think she was just making fun of my mother and her silly remarks."
"I even heard her talking to Mary about music, and was much interested in our daughter's musical talents. Oh William, wouldn't you like such a sister for your sister Mary?"
Mr. Darcy, in his surprise that someone talked to his daughter Mary, asked her, "So how was your conversation with Miss Elizabeth? Did you like her?"
Mary, very shy and occupied by her own thoughts normally, was overjoyed. Her face lit up with happiness as she said, "I think she is one of the best good natured ladies I have ever seen. Kindness was obvious from one look at her face, and I did not feel her in the least condescending. She asked me what music I preferred. When I told her about my favorite composers, she was very embarrassed when she asked me to come and visit her tomorrow to play for her. She was embarrassed that I might think her to be proud because of her money, and she said she liked to talk to me and be my friend. I can only imagine she thought many people were thinking of her money when forming a friendship with her, but I assured her I would be very happy indeed to call her a friend."
A long silence followed that speech by Mary. A silence of surprise, since she did not talk for so long before in their company. Mr. Darcy was thrilled to find his daughter had formed a friendship with a sensible girl. Mrs. Darcy was occupied with the dresses of Lydia and Kitty. Charles was thinking that Elizabeth would be a perfect sister for himself, though he did not yet admit to himself he was in love with Jane. William was shocked to say the least at what Mary described as Elizabeth's embarrassment when she asked her to come to Netherfield. This was much in contrast with the arrogant, conceited woman he imagined her to be. Could he have been wrong? But how?
Charles and William excused themselves for the night. Charles remembered he needed to talk to William about his obvious lack of sense when he talked about Elizabeth, and so joined him in his room.
"William, I want to talk to you for a while. Do you mind?"
William said he would be very welcome.
"How can you say such words about Miss Elizabeth? I know you are intimidated of the company of strangers, but this could not be an excuse for your being so rude. I think she overheard what you said, and the very action of her going to talk to mother and Mary after that shows her excellent good nature."
William told Charles what Caroli told him about his cousin. Charles was shocked, to say the least. But he had some sense to tell William, "But you see, William: Her actions are talking about her, and not what her cousin told you. Would you like someone to think you are bad just because I told him so?"
"But you would never do so, Charles. I know you, and I trust you. And I cannot imagine anyone saying a thing like that about their cousin and fiancé!"
"Fiancé? Who gave you such an idea? Jane told me that her sister was unattached. She even told me that her sister wished to marry a sensible man who would love her character and not her money. I think Caroli was misleading you in more than one way?"
"But why would he? I do not see any benefit he can get from lying to me."
"Think about it, cousin. I am sure your good nature will not allow you to judge someone by idle gossip. I will leave you tonight and we can talk about it later."
"Thanks, Charles," William said to the back of his cousin.
Can I be that wrong? I certainly would not like to be in that position. I do not imagine myself to be that wrong. Can Caroli be really misleading me? But why? Obvious, he did not want men to take interest in his cousin, so that he can secure her for himself. Can it really be that simple, and can I really be so wrong? I did not see her personally doing anything wrong. She talked to my mother and did not fly away from her silliness. She even talked to Mary after that. She was kind to my sister Mary, and that alone is something. Nobody in the neighborhood seemed to understand Mary. He knew she had little faith in herself because she was not beautiful like her sisters. She was irritating sometimes, but he could imagine that since she had no female companions. May be Miss Elizabeth was moved by pity for my sister? I certainly would like to know more about that mysterious Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
Chapter 6 The next morning, William left early to walk around the grounds. He was so occupied with his thoughts of Miss Elizabeth and whether he was right or wrong in his assessment of her character. He still did not want to be convinced he was that wrong, when something strange caught his sight.
Elizabeth, who was obviously talking a walk too, was at the moment a few yards away. She was sitting on her knees, trying to nurse an injured wild cat. She was so occupied with her job that she did not take notice of the nearby gentleman. She was singing in a very nice voice while trying to stop the blood from bleeding from the poor creature. When she succeeded, she opened her breakfast basket and started to feed the cat from her milk.
William was more surprised this time than he was when he heard about her taking interest in animals. She was really caring for the cat in a way that he did not think any normal lady would. He certainly did not imagine his mother, younger sisters, or anyone in the area showing such tenderness towards wild cats. Can it be really true, and I was so wrong? Darcy knew he wanted to think, and left the area while still hearing Elizabeth singing and feeding the cat.
Mary returned from Netherfield that evening much happier than when she left. She started talking at once to her family about her new friend.
"I did not believe before that someone can be that good, but I am certainly wrong. I am only thinking that it would be too much for me to have such a friend. I certainly do not deserve it."
Mr. Darcy ensured his daughter that she was good-natured herself and that good-natured people certainly will like her. He was worried about his daughter before since no one in the neighborhood was a true friend of her, but now he was pleased to find she is making friends with such a lady.
"When I arrived, I saw her nursing a cat and feeding her. She was reluctant to tell me its story at first but her sister Jane told me. She was having a walk in the morning, as was her habit, when she saw that cat bleeding from a wound in its back. She immediately took care of the matter, and fed the animal with milk to compensate for the loss of blood. She took it back to Netherfield to take care of it while waiting for me."
"And did she tell you she is going to keep the cat?"
"No. She told me she did not like the idea of lock animals in people's homes. It was too selfish in her eyes."
"But what about your music?"
"The two sisters showed me their piano, and I started playing for them, and Elizabeth played for us. Her music is so beautiful, and she plays it with such feeling. I cannot imagine anyone her age who is so accomplished."
William asked, "Did you meet their cousin Caroli?"
"Yes I did. I did not like him at all. He seemed to be an arrogant man who did not like the idea of his cousin making me a friend of hers. At least that is what his looks said."
William had much more to think about that night.
The following day, Saturday
Mrs. Darcy was very busy that day in her dinner preparations. She was trying to make sure nothing went wrong. Miss Jane is going to be in the company of Charles this evening too, and she hoped before long an engagement would be announced. And Miss Elizabeth had to like her son William, too.
The Bennet party arrived, and were received with extra civility by Mrs. Darcy that her sons were extremely embarrassed.
The dinner went very smoothly, much to the delight of Mrs. Darcy. Jane and Charles were much occupied with each other, that they did not hear what anybody else said. And Caroli was talking to Lydia and Kitty. Mr. Darcy, Mary and Elizabeth were lively talking on the other side of the table. But she was very annoyed for the attitude of William. What was he waiting for before talking with Miss Elizabeth?
The conversation on the other side of the table was lively between Lizzy, Mary and Mr. Darcy. They were talking of music, politics, war and peace, and even books. William was surprised by the knowledge of that young woman. Their conversation then changed to chess, and William was alarmed by that by such a flow of conversation. He could not however stop his father from saying,
"So Miss Elizabeth, you too enjoy chess? William here is very proficient in the game. I dare say he would make a very challenging opponent. Would you like to play a game with him after dinner?"
"I do not want to be such a burden. Sure Mr. William has other worthy opponents with whom he can play without being dishonored by."
William knew he had to talk before the matter went out of hand, "I would be really honored to play a game with you, Miss Elizabeth."
"You are all politeness, Mr. William. But I do not want to bore you with my silly and unintelligent game."
Mr. Darcy did not understand what was going on. Why did she refuse to play with William? She was very nice throughout the evening, and what he heard of her made him think highly of her. What was going on between her and his son?
After dinner, conversation went smoothly as before. At the end of it, everyone (except Caroli) was unhappy to see it end. Jane invited Charles to visit her the next day for dinner, which he gladly accepted. William was a bit annoyed that Elizabeth refused to play with him, or even talk to him. But when he remembered what he said to her the other day, he was very ashamed of himself. He had to find a way soon to mend things with her. He was usually so proud to say he was sorry to anyone. His good opinion, once lost, was lost forever. But could this be a first time?
Chapter 7 Posted on Thursday, 6 January 2000
The next day, Sunday
Charles was invited to dine with the Misses Bennet the following day, and Mrs. Darcy was overjoyed about that. She secretly hoped that he might have a chance to spend more time with them. Maybe he should go on horseback, since it was likely to rain? But then the Bennets might offer him their carriage on his way back. Maybe something else?
Charles said goodbye to his family and went on horseback (as his mother suggested) to dine with Jane. He was happy to have an opportunity to spend time with her. He was thinking about her all the way to Netherfield. When he was almost at the door of Netherfield, his horse jumped to avoid a rock and Charles, taken by surprise, fell to the ground. The horse made a lot of noise that caught the attention of the inhabitants of Netherfield. When they came to see what was going on, They were surprised to see Charles on the ground, unconscious, with blood coming from his head.
This scene was too much for poor Jane that she fainted herself while calling for Charles. Caroli moved as far away as appropriate from Charles to avoid spoiling his clothes with blood. But Elizabeth, though terrified for her sister and neighbor, was the one who took the first action.
"Caroli, please go inside and call Miss Jane's maid and two menservants. Quickly please."
Caroli went as told.
"Oh God, please help me." Elizabeth thought as she looked quickly at Jane and Charles. Jane was unconscious but not in any serious danger. But Charles has to be rescued quickly before it is too late. She started by taking off her bonnet and putting it on the wound to stop the bleeding. When Jane's maid and the menservants arrived, she told Jane's maid to take care of her, and instructed the menservants to move Charles gently to the guest room, and to call for a doctor at once.
She stayed with Charles until the doctor arrived. He was better but seemed very pale. She hoped there were no serious injuries other than this wound. The doctor confirmed her thought, but told her that Charles lost a lot of blood and that it will be some time, at least five days, before he is fully recovered. He also should not be moved in that interval. He gave him some medication and told her he will call again the next day.
Elizabeth sent a servant to the Darcys to tell them about the accident, and then she went to stay with Jane.
Jane was just recovering from the shock when her sister entered her room. When she saw her, she yelled, "Oh Lizzy, how is he? Did you get a doctor? Can I see him? I would like to go to him at once."
Elizabeth told her about his condition and told her not to worry.
"But I have to see him at once. You do not know how I felt when I saw him bleeding. It was as if my life was falling apart. Oh Lizzy, I think I have really fallen in love this time. I cannot live without him."
"Take it easy, Jane. He will live and you may have much more time to talk about that! But I do not think you can tell him what you just told me to his face!"
"Of course not Lizzy. You know me better. But I have to see him at once."
So Elizabeth accompanied Jane to see the unconscious Charles, then left her and went out for a walk.
At Longbourn
The house was in uproar when the servant came from Netherfield to tell them about Charles. All were concerned, except Mrs. Darcy. She spoke aloud of her thought.
"I am glad it is not serious, but I am more glad that he has to spend more time in the company of Miss Bennet. This time would be very good for his relationship with her."
Mr. Darcy and William, who listened to this remark, were shocked to say the least that Mrs. Darcy can say that aloud.
"Mother, how can you say so?" William said. "I am greatly worried about Charles, and I think I have to go to see him at once."
Mrs. Darcy was about to suggest that he goes on horseback too, but Mr. Darcy said, "You should take the carriage, William. It is about to rain and I do not want two sick sons!"
William agreed, and went to prepare for the carriage.
On his way to Netherfield, William was thinking about Charles. He liked him very much, since he was more than a brother to him. He was a true friend. At the same time, he was thinking about Elizabeth Bennet, and what he should do when he meets her. He was very close to Netherfield by that time. As he was thinking of her, Elizabeth Bennet abruptly appeared in front of his carriage. He stopped at once and started:
"Miss Bennet," He said with a bow.
"Mr. Darcy," She replied with a curtsy.
"I came to inquire after my cousin Charles."
"You are welcome, sir. Please let me show you the way," She said in cold civility.
He descended from his carriage, and walked with her. He was a bit angry at her cold manner, but he knew he deserved it.
She showed him Charles' room, where Jane was still there. Jane welcomed him to Netherfield and invited him to stay if he wanted to be with his cousin. He agreed to that plan. The ladies left him with his cousin.
At dinner, Caroli was vexed to hear of William's stay at Netherfield.
"Oh we have to bear the company of such man for long! Why did he come? Surely not to stay with his cousin. He must have some other malicious design. How can you invite a stranger to your house, Jane? What will the neighbors say?"
Elizabeth interfered, "But you know cousin that the house is full of servants and that men sleep in a part of the house far away from our part. No one can think such an arrangement inappropriate." Your being in the house is the most inappropriate thing in the world, she thought.
Caroli continued as if not discouraged, "What does he think of coming here? Does he think we like his company? Such arrogance, and no style at all."
Jane told him quietly that he should not talk to him if he did not wish to.
He was going to continue his attack of William when the latter entered the room.
"How is your cousin, Mr. Darcy?" She asked with concern in her voice.
"Not so well, I am afraid. But I think he is getting better. We will have to wait for the doctor tomorrow."
"I hope he recovers soon," Jane said, then blushed as she thought it might be inappropriate for her to say so.
"We all wish him a speedy recovery, Jane," Elizabeth said. "Your cousin, Mr. Darcy, is very popular as you see!" Unlike you, she thought.
"I am glad to hear it," William replied, annoyed as he caught her meaning. This has to stop soon. I will have to confront her sooner than I thought.
With this thought, he left them to retire for the night.
Chapter 8 Posted on Friday, 7 January 2000
Monday Morning
Elizabeth woke up at 6 AM as usual and went out for her morning walk on the Netherfield grounds. She returned back two hours later and went to the kitchen for some time. After that she went to the library to wait for breakfast. Breakfast was usually served at 9 AM in Netherfield, but Caroli managed always to delay it to 9:30 or even later.
Elizabeth was in the library reading one of her favorite books. At about 8:30 she heard steps outside the door and William Darcy entered. She looked out from her book and he was surprised to find her at this early hour, and she was reading one of his favorite books too.
"Excuse me Miss Bennet. I did not wish to intrude. I did not know you woke up so early."
"It is 8:30 Mr. Darcy. That is not what I may consider early. And you are not intruding. You can have a seat and read whichever book you choose," she replied.
William went to the library shelves to look for a book. He did not feel comfortable with the manner she was using to address him. She was civil as usual but it was a kind of cold civility, very different from the way she used when talking to his father, sisters or Charles. However, he did not say that aloud. He reached a decision last night to confront Miss Elizabeth about what he said on the day of the Meryton party. This has to be done sooner. He cannot spend these days in her sister's house without reaching an understanding with her. He was more than a little captivated now by her beauty and manners, which was praised by all those who knew her in the neighborhood.
While he was thinking about a way to open up the subject with Miss Elizabeth, she was thinking of the same. She heard from many of her friends in Meryton (for she has now formed a large set of friends) that William Darcy was a very respectable, polite and kind young man. He was known of helping the poor and, though not rich himself, did whatever he could to help. Many talked of his honesty and integrity. He was known to be reserved by nature, but nobody described him as impolite. There must be another explanation for the arrogant words he said about her. She suspected that Caroli has something to do with it. In her impatience, she did not think much about propriety before she suddenly addressed William,
"Mr. Darcy. I have something to discuss with you if you have no objection," she said while blushing a little.
William found her blush most becoming on her face. Aloud he said, "Not at all Miss Bennet." He wondered if she was going to say what he has on his mind. Probably not.
"I heard what you said to Mr. Bingley about me last Thursday."
He was dumbfounded, to say the least. This is going to be too frank a discussion. He did not know what to say in reply, so he looked at the floor in embarrassment.
"I was a bit annoyed at first by what I heard, though I did not show it at the time," she continued. "However, the information I got from my friends here tells me that you are not rude by nature. If you heard something wrong about me that prompted you to say such, let me know. Otherwise, I will let you know my opinion about your behavior." She said the last sentence in a little louder voice.
William knew now that he had to explain. There was no way he can avoid it after this frank confrontation on her side.
"Miss Bennet, pray forgive me. Whenever I think about what I said, I feel ashamed of myself. I did not know you at that time, and now that I do I find what I said inexcusable. I did not think the same that night after what your cousin told me, but now that I know you and your cousin better, I feel ashamed of being fooled by him."
"And what exactly did my cousin say that made you so angry of me?"
William repeated a part of what Caroli said, about her being his fiancée and about her rude manners, and her insults of himself.
"I was just thinking I am going even with you after your cousin told me you described me in such a manner. I am truly sorry, Miss Bennet. I will do whatever I can to amend my error, if that is possible at all."
Elizabeth relaxed as she replied, "I accept your apology Mr. Darcy. Given the circumstances I may have done the same myself, though not in the same rude language you used," she said teasingly while she smiled.
William relaxed a lot as he saw her smile. Her manners were more than captivating now for him. Was he falling for her? He had better think of something else. What can make a rich lady connect herself with a poor man from the country?
"I am relieved Miss Bennet, though I cannot say I am pleased with myself," he replied.
"It is me who should apologize for my cousin's behavior, Mr. Darcy. I do not want to talk about him in his absence, but I must say I am sorry for what he said to you."
She is apologizing to me ?! And she does not want to talk of someone in his absence? This young lady is full of surprises indeed. Aloud he said,
"I would be honored to play chess with you Miss Bennet, though from what I heard of your skill I confess I am a little bit afraid of such a game."
She was also beginning to feel more than a little liking for him. All her life she had dreamt of a man with his manners (as described by the local people, not as she witnessed herself!), but she still has to know him better.
"Maybe we can play a game after dinner, if you are not otherwise engaged. We can even go with Jane to Charles' room to provide him a little amusement if he is well by that time."
He was about to praise her idea, when his reserved nature interfered and told him it might be felt as flattery.
"I hope Charles gets better soon."
"I hope so too. Oh, it is 9 AM already. I think we have to go now to have some breakfast."
He went after her, still thinking about the wonderful young lady in front of him.
At Breakfast
Jane was waiting in the dining room and was surprised to see William Darcy coming after her sister. Caroli was still not there as usual.
"I hope your cousin is well, Mr. Darcy," Jane started, unable to hide her anxiety.
"He is better, thank you Miss Bennet. He woke up at night and talked to me for a short while before going back to sleep. I hope the doctor can give us a satisfactory report this morning."
"I am glad to hear it." I was not able to sleep well last night, she said to herself while blushing a little. "We are now waiting for Caroli to come down before we have breakfast. Have a seat, Mr. Darcy."
"Thank you."
"Lizzy, I smelt a wonderful scent coming from the kitchen. Please tell me you prepared my favorite apple pie."
She can cook? William wondered.
Elizabeth, embarrassed to talk about that in front of William, said, "I prepared it last night and continued this morning. It is just a small surprise from your little sister!" She was smiling and blushing at the same time.
"Oh Lizzy. You are wonderful. She is the best little sister anyone ever had, Mr. Darcy."
Caroli entered at that moment, earlier than usual, since he felt danger from leaving William with the ladies for a long time. Conversation continued through breakfast, though it was more reserved than it was without Caroli. William was still thinking of Elizabeth, while she was thinking of a way to confront her cousin.
Chapter 9 Posted on Sunday, 9 January 2000
Monday Morning, After Breakfast
The doctor came to check on Charles, and he declared him not to be in any danger. He advised them to continue with the medication, and estimated that Charles is going to be fine in one or two days.
Charles was conscious by that time and William spent almost all the morning in his bedroom. Jane wanted to stay as well but it could hardly be appropriate for a young lady like her, so she just checked on Charles every fifteen minutes or so!
"It seems that you were doing very well with Miss Jane, Charles," William said. "She is always inquiring about you."
"Stop it William. This time I feel it is different. I have never seen such a wonderful person before. She is very good-natured, kind, and of course very pretty. I think she is an angel who came to rescue me."
William did not comment on that, but he thought there was one other person in the house who was more deserving to be called an angel.
Charles continued, "But William, how are you now with Miss Elizabeth? Did you settle your differences? I hope you apologized to her for your behavior."
William colored a little and replied, "Yes I did. But it was very embarrassing for me. And the fact that she forgave me quickly made me more ashamed of myself. I do not know why I was fooled by that hateful Caroli." And he told Charles of his conversation with Miss Elizabeth.
"You seem to be taken by Miss Elizabeth yourself, William," Charles teased.
"Charles, stop it."
Charles did not continue teasing and after a short while slept again.
Meanwhile, In the drawing Room
Elizabeth, Jane and Caroli were in the drawing room. Elizabeth was reading a book, Jane doing some needle work, and Caroli trying to distract Elizabeth from her book!
"Miss Elizabeth, it is an excellent way to spend a morning, in the company of a book. I think there is nothing in the world better than reading. One can be bored with anything except a book."
If you continue this, then you have brought it on yourself, Elizabeth thought.
"What is your book about? I think it is some kind of a play."
"No you are mistaken, Mr. Debourgh. It is some scientific book about Physics."
"Physics? And what does a young woman like you want to know about Physics? I think walking is enough of a physical exercise for you. For sure you do not want to play some other game?"
Elizabeth fought hard in order not to laugh for her cousin's stupidity.
"I assure you it is not about games, Mr. Debourgh!"
"Then about what?"
You brought it upon yourself, she thought.
"Mr. Debourgh, I think we have to talk. There is something I have to discuss with you."
"Oh of course, whatever you wish. But do you want us to go in the library?" he said in a lower voice, looking at Jane.
"This matter is no secret for my sister. I would like her to hear you out as well. Mr. Debourgh, what was you thinking when you told Mr. Darcy that I am an arrogant lady who despises all around her? Did you think this is some kind of joke?"
"B .. But why.."
"If you think it is a joke, then it is a very ill-mannered one to be sure. If you have some other design on your mind, let me assure you that you are not going to get what you want."
Jane was very surprised by this discussion. She was about to laugh at what her cousin said about Physics when she heard this heated discussion. She did not know what to think or say. Elizabeth was very tough on her cousin this time. It had to be some serious matter.
Elizabeth told Jane what Caroli had told William about her, and was waiting for her cousin's reply.
After a short while when he regained his composure, Caroli said, "Miss Elizabeth, how can you believe such a country poor man? For sure he is telling some lies to you in order to gain your affection. A woman with ten thousand a year is more than a nice prey for a man with no fortune like himself."
"I do not believe you because I know you, cousin. I think enough was said on that subject, unless of course you want to apologize."
Caroli thought for a second before saying, "But I do apologize, Miss Elizabeth. You know I am in love with you and that I will do whatever I can to protect you. My only thought at that time was to protect you against the greedy gentlemen of the area. I do not bear to see you married to someone else." This was as good a time as ever to tell her how I felt. Felt? Am I in love with her, or is it only her money? It doesn't matter, though.
"I accept your apology, cousin. As for what you said about your feelings, let me make this clear for you. I respect you and my uncle a great deal, but I do not feel in my heart what a woman should feel towards someone that she is going to marry. Nor do I feel such a feeling can be ever generated. I am sorry to hurt you, but I hope you can get over it. You are a rich young man yourself, and many beautiful gentlewomen will be more than happy to be connected to you." She was able to stop herself from laughing when she said the word (respect) associated with her cousin.
Caroli's face was red now, and he excused himself from the company of the sisters, saying that he has some business to attend.
Jane said as soon as he was out of the room, "You were too hard on him, Lizzy. Couldn't you have said it to him in a better way?"
"Did you want me to marry him, while I do not love him?"
"No of course not, but at least you could have said what you just said to him in private, not in front of me."
"Maybe you are right Jane, but he provoked me. I could not stand the sight of him much longer after he called me what he did to Mr. Darcy."
"I will go to check on Mr. Bingley now, Lizzy. I will be back in a few minutes."
3 Monday Evening, Netherfield
Jane, Elizabeth and Caroli were staying in the drawing room. Jane was playing a game of cards with her sister, while Charles was doing nothing, still affected from the morning discussion with Elizabeth. At that time, William entered the room.
"How is your cousin, Mr. Darcy?" Jane asked at once.
"He is fine, but he is having some sleep now. He is going to wake up any minute now."
"And did you tell him about our chess game? I told you we are going to play in his room to amuse him a little," Elizabeth said. She was eager to play with William as he was with her.
"No I did not. I thought you might change your mind."
"Well, I did change my mind. I want to play two games instead of one with you this evening. As Jane here can tell you, I usually lose the first game when I play with someone for the first time!"
"And she usually wins all other games with that person after that," Jane joked.
"Oh Jane, do not spoil my scheme."
"I will be happy to play too games with you, Miss Elizabeth. Maybe I can prove the theory of your sister to be wrong?" William teased.
"Some people like to dream a lot," Jane interrupted. They were all enjoying this conversation a lot. Well, almost all, for Caroli was still occupied in his thoughts.
"Jane, remember that I am not even good to play with Lydia?" Elizabeth reminded Darcy of what he said earlier.
"Miss Elizabeth, please do not remind me of that. I am really ashamed of myself and .."
An embarrassed William was interrupted by Elizabeth who said, "I was just joking, Mr. Darcy. I do not bear you a grudge from what you said."
"And she also likes to make her opponents think she is not good, so that they underestimate her and she wins them easier," Jane added.
"Oh Jane, what a sister you are? Do you have to spoil all my schemes? Well, you should go now, Mr. Darcy, to your cousin. See if he is awake, and let him be prepared for the excitement that is coming."
William left to do as told.
Later on Monday Evening, Charles' room
"Checkmate, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said at the end of her second game with that gentleman. She had lost the first game, and was very happy to win the second one. William proved to be a very worthy opponent.
"Do not say I did not warn you, Mr. Darcy," Jane said.
Charles joined, "But William you must be very annoyed of yourself. This is one of the very few times he lost a game to anyone, Miss Elizabeth."
"Are you really annoyed, Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked.
"Not at all. Well, maybe a little bit! But one cannot be too annoyed to lose from a worthy opponent."
"This is one of the rare times William pays a compliment to anyone, Miss Elizabeth," Charles said. "But since I saw your game, I think it is not a compliment after all!"
"You flatter me, both of you! I am not that good, and pay no attention to what Jane will say."
William was more than captivated with the young lady in front of him. Was he in love with her? At the beginning of the day he was just embarrassed from her due to his impolite remarks, but now he was sure he liked every bit of her conversation, as well as her manners. She managed to be lively as well as polite in a strange mixture. She is a joy to listen to her talk, a joy to play with, a joy to look at. In short, she is everything any man can want in the companion of his life. He was very much in love with that lady by now, and he has to think about it over the night.
They continued in that manner of light conversation until Charles was tired and they all retired for the night.