Section I, Next Section
Chapter I
Fitzwilliam Darcy sat relaxed in the library at Rosings.
His Aunt, and Cousin Anne had mercifully left him alone, and his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam was off making his annual walk around the park.
Darcy's thoughts drifted, as they had been more and more lately, to the inhabitant of the nearby Parsonage at Hunsford, one Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
He had known her for several months, and had become more and more attracted to her. Not that it could come to anything: her connections and family were simply unsuitable. But as he reflected on her, he realised that she had made a profound difference to his outlook on life, a difference that made him now think of her with a great deal of gratitude and affection that he told himself was brotherly.
For you see, Fitzwilliam Darcy, in possession of a fortune of two hundred thousand pounds and an income of ten thousand a year, was always mindful of the need to marry and produce an heir. In his youth, he had eagerly sought the company of women in the hope of finding that special person, a soulmate, someone his equal, who could share his hopes and dreams and interests, whom he would love, and be loved by in turn. He had been inspired by the classics, imagining himself to be one hero or another, falling in love with the woman the fates had chosen for him and living happy with her. Where was his Euridyce, his Helen of Troy?
But it was not to be. Day by day, year by year, ever so slowly, his hopes and dreams slipped away. The women of his acquaintance were either greedy, grasping, self serving, or like his cousin Anne, uninterested, and pushed into his path by scheming mothers. They had ground down his hopes and filled him with total disgust: and though his mind told him that to think meanly of half the world's inhabitants was illogical and stupid, the daily evidence from his Aunt, his Cousin Anne and the Miss Bingleys of his society was incontrovertible.
Thus Darcy had, over the years, been reduced to an unwilling acceptance of the fact that he would have to marry his cousin out of duty, and that this year he would have to make his approach to Lady Catherine for permission to marry her and get it over with.
However, Miss Elizabeth Bennet had changed all that. She had given him back his hope. Here was one woman, intelligent, with a quick playful mind, not afraid to confront him. She was frank and honest, and he had to admit it, very handsome. If one such woman existed, even though not available to him because of circumstances, then there must be others. Thus there was hope, and Elizabeth Bennet, in giving him hope, had given him life. His redemption he counted from the day he had observed her fine eyes after she had walked three miles in the mud to see her sick sister at Netherfield. From that time, the dark blanket of depression that had descended on him over the years had been lifted. In saving him from a loveless marriage, she had literally saved his life. He felt he owed her an immense debt of gratitude that he must repay. He realised that he wanted her as a friend.
His musings were interrupted by the entrance of Colonel Fitzwilliam returning from his "Grand Tour."
"Darcy, I must have a word with you. I think I may have committed a major faux pas, I am glad we are in private, as I should inform you straight away. Generally, I am very discreet..." Started the Colonel.
"Major Colonel, in private, generally? You have been in the army too long." Interrupted Darcy with a raised eyebrow.
The Colonel grimaced. "That was bathetic! Now stop interrupting and listen to me. Do you remember telling me about your friend Bingley and how you saved him from an unfortunate alliance?"
Darcy, now serious, said that he did.
"Well, I met Miss Bennet on my walk today, and in the course of conversation, I mentioned your efforts on Bingley's behalf. From her reaction, I realised that all was not well. I suspect that there is more to the story than meets the eye."
Darcy let out a long breath. "Well Colonel, perhaps I should have told you some more of the story. You see, the lady concerned was Miss Bennet's sister. I would imagine that I am now persona non grata. I should imagine my popularity would equal that of a cockroach in a ballroom."
"Darcy, I am most sincerely sorry. I had no idea." Said the Colonel.
"It is not your fault, it is mine. I should have at least sworn you to secrecy. But no matter, it is out now." He paused. "I must speak with Miss Bennet and face the music." This was not the way to promote a friendship, he thought, angry at himself for not thinking of this possibility.
The party from Hunsford was expected later on, and he would try to make his peace with Miss Bennet some time during the evening.
Thus drifted on the day.
As the time for dinner drew near, he waited by the window in anticipation of their arrival. He saw the party approach without Miss Bennet however.
"Colonel, Miss Bennet is not with the party. Can you account for it?"
The Colonel frowned in thought for a minute. "You know, Darcy. The instant, we talked of Bingley and her sister, she complained of a headache. It would not surprise me if that were the reason."
"In that case," Said Darcy decisively. "I am off to the Parsonage." Will you make my excuses to Lady Catherine please Colonel?"
With that Darcy slipped out the back door and made his way to Hunsford.
Chapter II
Darcy strode purposefully toward the Parsonage.
He knew that because of the matter of Miss Bennet's sister, he would not be well received, but that alone would not deflect him from his purpose.
Miss Bennet had helped him enormously, and he had to repay her. He also had decided that he wanted her as a friend, so whatever it took to draw the poison that had soured things between them, he was determined to do. His sense of justice told him that since his happiness was her doing, and her unhappiness was his, it was he that had to make amends. If that meant him suffering her anger, so be it!
With that he knocked on the door and was admitted to Miss Bennet's presence by the maid.
He looked at her grimly. She was pale, and had obviously been crying. He suppressed an impulse to go to her to try to comfort her. Apart from the impropriety, she would probably have him thrown out of the parsonage, given what he knew of her feelings.
"Miss Bennet, we have known each other for some months now. I have to say that of all the women of my acquaintance, you are the one that I respect and admire the most. You have all the qualities and accomplishments that someone could wish for in a friend, and I would hope one day to be counted as a friend of yours." He paused. "In fact, if your own family situation were different, I might even have considered seeking your hand in marriage, although I realise that your feelings do not reflect mine."
"You are quite right in that last Mr. Darcy" was the solitary reply.
Darcy was a little nettled. He wanted to get whatever it was that was at the root of her dislike of him out in the open. Obviously, he had not pushed her hard enough to get at the truth. 'Dammit,' he thought, 'this game of "ladies and gentlemen" is so dishonest. Well, I shall have to push a little harder. Forgive me Miss Bennet,' he thought to himself.
"I might wonder why there was such little attempt at civility in your reply." He said.
Her eyes flashed in anger. "Aha" he thought "I think that has done it."
"How civil do you think I should be to a man that has been the means of ruining, perhaps forever, the happiness of a most beloved sister? I have every reason in the world to think ill of you. No motive can excuse the unjust and ungenerous part you acted there."
She paused, and saw with no slight indignation that he was listening with an air which proved him wholly unmoved by any feeling of remorse.
"Can you deny that you have done it?" she repeated.
With assumed tranquillity he then replied, "I have no wish to deny that I did everything in my power to separate my friend from your sister."
"But it is not merely this affair," she continued, "on which my dislike is founded. Long before it had taken place, my opinion of you was decided. Your character was unfolded in the recital which I received many months ago from Mr. Wickham. On this subject, what can you have to say? In what imaginary act of friendship can you defend yourself? Or under what misrepresentation can you here impose upon others? Do you deny that Mr. Wickham had been promised a living by your father, and when the living became vacant, you refused to give it to him?"
"I shall not attempt to deny that either." Retorted Darcy.
"And yet you talk to me of friendship Mr. Darcy, as if all of this were unimportant. I find that incredible, and especially in a man who has expressed a degree of pride in his understanding. What on earth can friendship mean to you?" continued Elizabeth with energy.
"Well Miss Bennet, perhaps I should set my sights a little lower, and instead of asking for friendship, I should ask for justice. The charges that you have laid at my feet are serious indeed, and if true would, I believe, justify your hatred. I merely ask that I be allowed to explain my actions in regard to Bingley and Wickham, although I should not mention them both in the same breath."
Miss Bennet folded her arms saying, "I should not wish to deny you the justice you have requested Mr. Darcy, but I must confess that I cannot imagine anything you could say that would change my opinion of you."
Darcy inclined his head in acknowledgment.
"Perhaps we should speak of Bingley and your sister. But please let me explain something at the outset." He paused to collect his thoughts. "Miss Bennet," he continued at last. "Despite your opinion of me, I hold the opinion that people should only marry out of the feelings of deepest love and devotion for each other; anything less is a terrible tragedy. I saw in Bingley those feelings for your sister, and would have been happy for him if she had returned them, but I saw no evidence of that, and I did observe her closely. She certainly was friendly and polite, but gave no indication of any attachment. So is it an indication of malice on my part that I wished to preserve my friend from a loveless marriage?"
"It seems to me to be an act of insufferable presumption on your part, Mr. Darcy." Retorted Elizabeth with some scorn.
"Indeed? And what if the position had been reversed? What if your sister had revealed herself to the whole world as being in love with Bingley, but he gave no sign of any attachment? What would your advice to her be? To continue to chase him, despite the lack of encouragement, perhaps? Would you have her risk at best humiliation, and at worst a loveless marriage? Well Miss Bennet, would you have your sister in a loveless marriage, merely because it was a good social match?"
"But that is not the case in this instance Mr. Darcy! My sister truly loves...loved Mr. Bingley, and you separated them!" She shot accusingly.
"Yes" replied Darcy with a sigh, "but surely you can see that what was done was done with the best of intentions, and with the welfare of my friend at heart. I am merely trying to point out that if you had been in my situation, you would have advised your sister in the same way as I advised Bingley. What is more, Miss Bennet, now that I am aware of your sister's true feelings, I can tell Bingley. That is, if I have your permission?"
Elizabeth Bennet now looked a little unsure of herself.. "You mean to say that you would inform Mr. Bingley of how my sister feels?" She said almost as if she could not have believed her ears.
"As soon as I possibly can. I believe that your sister is still in London?"
"Yes, yes, in Gracechurch Street, for the next three to four weeks, I am to join her there in a fortnight." Elizabeth said distractedly. Could it be possible that she was wrong about this man? 'No.' She thought. 'What about Wickham?'
"The other matter, Miss Bennet, is much easier to explain. George Wickham and I grew up together as boys, and he was a favorite of my father, and indeed he was promised a living. However, being of the same age, I was able to know things about Mr. Wickham and his vices that he was able to conceal from my father. I too engaged in this concealment of things that would have pained my father. In memory of my father I probably also would have given Wickham the living, even though I knew that he was most unsuitable for religious life. It was therefore fortunate that on my father's death, Wickham himself came to me, renouncing any interest in the rectorship of Kimpton, and instead asking for and receiving the sum of three thousand pounds to study for the law. I think you would agree Miss Bennet that such a sum would ensure a comfortable living to a man under articles, and would leave enough money for him to purchase a partnership in an attorney's office, in a place such as Meryton perhaps? Or do you think that such a situation is disgraceful?"
Darcy was well aware of Elizabeth's uncle's profession, and felt a mischievous twinge of delight in her discomfiture.
Elizabeth flushed slightly with embarrassment. "No, Mr. Darcy, if what you have said is true, I can hardly accuse you of malice toward Mr. Wickham."
"Miss Bennet, I am sorry to pain you, but there is more to this story that I should add." Darcy pressed home his advantage. "It was only a short time later, when Mr. Wickham again approached me. The study of the law had not been successful, and all the money had been spent or lost, I know not how, but I can imagine. He then requested that I give him the living that he had previously refused. I now had no compunction in turning him away. I shall leave you with all this to think about, but there is one more thing I should like to say, and that is when I first came into Hertfordshire, there was a family matter that had caused me great distress, and I had allowed it to affect my behaviour there. I recall at the Meryton Assembly hall making a particularly intemperate comment about you. I deeply regret my behaviour, and the comment. In any of that, I can offer no justification, and merely ask for you forgiveness, as undeserved as it may be."
Darcy reflected ruefully on the cruelty of the fates, who now made him painfully aware that Miss Bennet was indeed handsome enough to tempt him, yet put her out of his reach. No, he owed it to his family to marry within his own social circle.
Elizabeth struggled with all this new information that threatened to overturn all her previous opinions, not only of Mr. Darcy, but also of Mr. Wickham. She did not trust herself to speak.
Mr. Darcy excused himself, and let himself out of the parsonage. As he walked away, he felt something approaching confidence in his performance. At the very least, he had prevented Miss Bennet from making any mistakes in the direction of Mr. Wickham. That scoundrel could not hurt her now.
Elizabeth spent the next hour going over and over the things that Darcy had said to her, until she heard the carriage approaching that carried Mr. and Mrs. Collins. Not wishing to face the inquiries of her friend in her present state, Elizabeth retired for the night.
She did not get much sleep, however. She tossed and turned thinking about Darcy and Wickham, and her sister and Bingley, and even when she dozed off lightly, it seemed that Darcy's face was before her. It was only when the cock crowed, that she eventually got to sleep.
Later that morning when she finally awoke, her thoughts were much more ordered. She had had to admit to herself that Darcy was right and that she had misjudged him: she could not hate him any more. More to the point, she felt a little ashamed of her accusations of the previous evening, and her conscience pricked her into an intention to at least apologise to the man. As for friendship, well, perhaps.
After breakfast, she headed out into the park to seek Darcy on some of those pathways where they had previously come upon each other. On those occasions, his presence had been unwelcome, but today, when she wanted to see him, frustratingly, he was nowhere to be found. "Just like a man," she thought, "never there when you want them." She wandered for hours, thinking of the past day's events, and finally, despairing of meeting up with him, she returned to the parsonage. There she was informed that the gentlemen had visited earlier to take their leave, both waiting for over an hour in vain to see her before they departed for London.
Chapter III
Darcy had been in London for only a few hours. Nonetheless, he was now waiting on his friend Charles Bingley to pass on the news about Miss Jane Bennet that he had gleaned from her sister in Kent.
He could have visited even earlier, but a desire to avoid Mr. Bingley's sister Caroline, did affect his timetable somewhat.
He was admitted to Bingley's study, and after completing the usual niceties, broached the subject of his meeting with Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Kent.
"You know Charles, Miss Elizabeth informed me that her sister Jane has lately been in London, although I must admit that is something I have been aware of for some time." Charles looked at him and frowned. Darcy continued, "However, since I was previously convinced of Miss Bennet's indifference to you, I did not see it as necessary to mention it. But, only yesterday, her sister gave me very specifically to believe that Jane actually returned your feelings of last year. If that is the case, and it seems to be so, I should be very wrong to conceal Miss Bennet's presence in town. Miss Elizabeth has informed me that she will be here for another three weeks."
Charles looked at him uncomprehending, as if trying to grasp the import of what he was saying. "You mean to say she loves me?"
"Well, her sister says so, I hardly think there would be a better authority on the matter, save the lady herself and that, only you can ask of her."
"And she is in town, now, this instant?" Bingley was suddenly very intent.
"So I believe."
"Then I must visit her straight away. When Caroline gets back, I shall get her to call on the Gardiners, with some excuse to have me along, so I can be introduced to them, and then I can invite them round for a dinner party." Bingley's mind was racing ahead.
Darcy looked at his friend and his new found enthusiasm. "Well, since you are making plans, I shall get out of your way, and wish you luck."
Bingley looked at him with heartfelt gratitude, "Darcy, you are a true friend, a true friend."
"Even though I had not told you of Miss Bennet's presence in town before now?"
"Darcy, if as you say, you were convinced of her indifference, I could not blame you. Your promptness in correcting the matter once you heard to the contrary, shows that your motives were well intentioned. How could I be angry over that?"
With that, Darcy smiled in relief, and took his leave.
As he arrived home, something occurred to him that might make things difficult. He called his butler. "Greeley, I wish you to make some inquiries of the servants of the family at this address in Cheapside. Oh, and I am expecting Mr. Bingley in the next hour or two. Please show him straight through to the library when he arrives."
Indeed, two hours later, Charles Bingley stormed into Darcy's library, angrier than his friend had ever seen him before.
"She refused me!" He shouted. "She refused me! How dare she! I shall cut off her supply of orange dye! I'll cut off her feathers so they look like they came from a rooster, I'll...! That...! That...! Grrr!"
Darcy regarded his friend calmly. "Settle down old friend, whatever is the matter?" 'As if I don't know,' he thought.
"Caroline refuses point blank to visit Miss Bennet. She declares her social calendar is full for the next month, and can't possibly see her before then. Dammit man! I was very close to calling her a liar, I was so angry. But now what can I do? I cannot, as a single man, visit Miss Bennet at her uncle's house, when I am not introduced to them, it would appear most improper."
"Well, I think I may be able to help you. However, you must promise me that you will not reprimand your sister over her social calendar. If it is full for the next month, so be it. We must therefore exclude her from any social events that we have planned in that time. Do I have your word that she will not be attending any social engagements with us over the next month?"
"Darcy, you have my word and hand on it, and I must admit, you are a lot more charitable toward my sister than she deserves. Now what is your plan?"
They shook hands, one in expectation of a resolution to his problem, the other relieved at the assured absence of Miss Bingley for the next month.
Darcy rang for the Butler. "Greeley, do you have the information that I requested earlier?"
"Yes sir, I do."
Chapter IV
Elizabeth closed the letter she had just received from Jane with a sigh. She had written of the antics of their youngest cousin, Thomas Gardiner, aged two and one half years. She wrote of a young boy, 'full of spirits' and 'lively' and 'boisterous.' Elizabeth smiled; that was typical of Jane's good nature. Mrs. Gardiner would simply have used the epithet 'naughty.' The letter was just like all the others she had received in those months since Jane had been in London. It related events of the days and weeks, and had the hallmarks of Jane's good nature, but there was something dispirited about it. Elizabeth's thoughts turned to her conversation with Darcy the day before, and wondered if indeed he would use his influence on his friend Bingley. She sighed and put the letter away with all the others.
Back in London at Darcy's house, Greeley the butler, placed a slip of paper in Darcy's hands and moved as if to leave. Darcy motioned him to stay by the door, and then smiling, addressed Bingley. "Well Charles, I shall expect you here tomorrow at 9.30 sharp, in your best morning dress. We shall attempt to meet with your Miss Bennet."
"Attempt?" Said Bingley doubtfully.
"Charles, I do not know if my plan will succeed on the first attempt, but if you are patient, it will succeed eventually. Go home, get a good night's rest and come here refreshed tomorrow morning. Oh, before you go! My information here is that Miss Bennet has no gentlemen calling on her. Now be off with you!"
Bingley knew from his friend's tone of voice that he would get no further information, and that his best course of action would be to do as he was told. He reluctantly took his leave, leaving Darcy alone with Greeley.
"Greeley" said Darcy. "If Miss Bingley calls at any time in the next four weeks, I am not at home. Make sure that all the servants understand."
"Very well, sir. It shall be as you wish." With that Greeley withdrew.
Darcy lounged back in his chair with a smile from ear to ear. Four weeks without Caroline, and no chance of insulting his friend over the matter. Ahh! Heaven! Darcy made a mental note; thanks to Miss Elizabeth Bennet's information at Hunsford, he was free of Caroline for a time. 'I shall put that on the list of favours owed to Miss Bennet.' He thought.
Charles Bingley arrived home in a considerably better mood than he had left it. He dined well, and was polite to Caroline. Later that night after he retired, he slept well, dreaming of the charms of Miss Bennet and his hopes of a renewal of their acquaintance.
The next morning was Sunday. He had his breakfast early and was dressed and ready to leave, when he was accosted by his sister.
"Charles, where are you going dressed up like that? It is too early for church."
"I am going out with Darcy this morning." He replied cheerfully.
"Ooh! Can I come too?" Simpered Caroline without thinking.
Charles frowned, "I thought your calendar was completely filled for four weeks. If you have time free this morning, we could always visit Miss Bennet."
Miss Bingley realised her danger. "Oh, Silly me! You are right Charles, I do have another engagement. It must have slipped my mind."
"Very well Caroline, I shall see you sometime later today after your 'other engagement'." Said Charles curtly, not in the least convinced of her sincerity. "I have told Darcy of your 'engagements' for the next four weeks, and that you will not be able to see him for that time."
He then headed off to Darcy's house. Had he looked backward, he would have noticed that his sister had turned a deep shade of purple, nicely complementing her orange dress.
Out the front of Darcy's, the carriage was already waiting with Darcy inside. "Get in Charles! We're off to Cheapside!" The carriage took off.
"But how? We just can't visit like this." Said a confused Bingley.
"Just listen! Here is the plan. My man Greeley found out from the Gardiner's servants that the Gardiners and Miss Bennet walk to church every Sunday at nine, and return on the dot of ten thirty. We shall wait a little way down the street, and as soon as they appear, we shall drive past: and naturally, since we are both acquainted with Miss Bennet, we can acknowledge her as if it were a chance meeting, with no question of impropriety."
"But how do we explain our presence in that part of town?" Said Bingley.
"Oh ye of little faith!" Said Darcy. "We tell the truth of course. We are on our way to meet an acquaintance, are we not? The Gardiners and Miss Bennet will no doubt take that to mean someone other than themselves. We should perhaps not disabuse them of that notion."
It was now ten fifteen, and the carriage was about one hundred and fifty yards from the Gardiner's house.
"I see them! I see them! There they are!" Cried Bingley.
Darcy strained his eyes, and sure enough in the distance, he could just discern two ladies and a gentleman with some children approaching. He knocked on the roof of the carriage, and it proceeded slowly down Gracechurch Street till they were almost abreast of the Gardiners. Darcy stopped the coach and dismounted, followed by Bingley.
"Good heavens, I do declare it is Miss Bennet! We were on our way, hoping to meet an acquaintance when we saw you from the carriage." He addressed the party and bowed. Bingley did likewise.
"Miss Bennet, this is indeed a fortunate meeting, I have just returned from Kent, and have dined a number of times with your sister Elizabeth and the Collinses." He paused and looked at the Gardiners. "I would be honoured if you would introduce us to your friends."
Jane had become quite embarrassed by Bingley's presence, a development not unnoticed by Madelaine Gardiner. However, she managed to make the introductions, and the obvious acquaintance with the family through both sisters seemed to satisfy Mr. Gardiner. Mrs. Gardiner was a little more reserved and said, "Mr. Bingley, I recall your sisters visiting a few months ago, but they have not called back since."
Bingley, unaware to this point that his sisters had in fact visited Miss Bennet without telling him, pursed his lips for a second before replying. "They had not told me of that. However, I know that Caroline has an extremely hectic social life. She told me just yesterday that her calendar was booked solid for the next four weeks. Indeed were it not for a previous engagement, she would have been with us today. Had I known that they had visited your family, I would have insisted on coming along. I remember my time in Hertfordshire as being one of the happiest of my life." He looked significantly at Jane on uttering these last words. The look was not lost on Madelaine Gardiner, and she gave her husband's arm a slight squeeze.
Mr. Gardiner obliged by saying, "Would you be able to spare the time to take tea with us? You will not be late for your engagement this morning will you?"
"Oh no, Mr. Gardiner, not at all, we are not expected. We were relying somewhat on chance for our meeting this morning." Said Darcy. "A little delay is of no significance at all."
"In that case, our house is only a few minutes away." With that, they all headed down the street.
As they approached the door, Mr. Gardiner said, "I should warn you that our son Thomas is but two and one half years old, and can be a bit of a handful."
As if on cue, when the door opened, a small tousled haired cyclone hurled himself at them "Mama, Papa, Jane," and sensing the presence of strangers looked suspiciously up at Darcy and then Bingley. "I'm Thomas Gardiner, who are you?"
Darcy bent down and whispered loudly, "I am Fitzwilliam Darcy, and this is my friend Charles Bingley, we both know your cousin." He pointed to Jane.
At this reference to his favourite cousin, an enthusiastic smile broke out on Thomas' face. He turned to Charles and asked loudly, "Do you like Jane?" Jane blushed scarlet, and Bingley had a face of a similar hue.
"I cannot think of anyone who would not like Miss Bennet." He replied diplomatically.
"Don't call her that, call her JANE!" insisted Thomas with his hand on his hips. Mrs. Gardiner thought it time to intervene. She picked him up saying, "That is quite enough. When you are older, you must speak to people properly, and please use the word 'please'. Please excuse him gentlemen." Thomas squirmed in her grasp.
He looked at Bingley and said, "But Jane said she lov..bljggdhgley" A maternal hand quickly covered his mouth, stifling further revelations.
"What on earth has Thomas got around his mouth?" Mrs. Gardiner asked of the housekeeper who was standing by the door to receive them.
The housekeeper looked at Thomas's soiled lips and exclaimed. "Ooh! Emma Elizabeth Ann, the new maid from Australia has been feeding him that new wonder food they have there. I think it's called 'Vegemite'. It must be healthy, it tastes so vile."
"Yum! Yum!" Said Thomas, "I really love it." Mrs. Gardiner noted with relief that this 'Vegemite' concoction had completely diverted Thomas from his inquisition of Mr. Bingley and Jane.
They all proceeded inside. Charles Bingley in particular was quite in the mood to excuse Thomas for his apparent bad manners. Absent-mindedly, he wondered what sort of present a two and one half year old would like for Christmas.
Miss Bennet, absolutely mortified at the young scamp's indiscretion, could scarcely look at anyone, but absent-mindedly wondered what a particular gentleman might like from her for Christmas.
Darcy was trying to remember what he was like at two and one half years of age. Absent-mindedly he wondered what Miss Elizabeth Bennet might like him to give her for Christmas.
The Gardiner children were giggling behind their hands, absent-mindedly wondering what they were to get for Christmas.
Far away in Kent, Miss Elizabeth Bennet contemplated Mr. Darcy, and wondered absent-mindedly if he would have forgiven her her accusations by Christmas.
At the Bingley home, Caroline wondered absent-mindedly.
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, not the least bit absent minded, looked intrigued by it all, not even thinking of Christmas, since it was eight months away.
Chapter V
While the children went upstairs to play, the adults retired to the parlour for tea. They passed the allotted time pleasantly enough for the Gardiners and Darcy to decide that Jane and Bingley were well back on the road to romance. Things passed so well indeed, that the Gardiners extended an invitation to dine with them in a week.
On the way out, Darcy had an inspiration. "Mr. Gardiner, do you like fishing, sir?"
Mr. Gardiner beamed. ('Aha!' Thought Darcy.) "Why indeed I do, when I get the chance of it."
"Well." Said Darcy. "Bingley is visiting my estate in Derbyshire later this year, and is in need of rods and tackle, perhaps we might discuss it one night?" 'And,' thought Darcy, 'perhaps Miss Bennet might just be there, and perhaps Bingley just might see her...perhaps.'
"Oh yes, splendid! splendid! Would Tuesday night be too soon?" Ventured Mr. Gardiner eagerly.
Just as eagerly, Bingley broke in: "Why no, we have no fixed engagements on that night, and I do need some advice on that particular sport."
With that, they took their leave.
In the carriage back to Darcy's house, Bingley could scarcely contain himself. "Tuesday night and next Sunday. Oh Darcy, you do not know how happy I am."
Darcy looked at his friend with amusement. "Charles, looking at your agitation, I can gauge precisely how happy you are." Then, slyly, he added, "I wonder how your sisters shall take the news?"
"Well Darcy, I am not only mindful of my undertaking to you, but I am also extremely miffed about their behaviour. I have no intention of telling them anything until I am quite ready. Certainly I haven't considered including them in our visits to the Gardiners." He hesitated. "You don't think I am being unreasonable, do you?"
"No Bingley, in fact I think you are being quite charitable." 'Not the least being toward me.' Thought Darcy.
Two days later, two separate letters arrived in Kent from Gracechurch Street.
The first was from Jane. Elizabeth was surprised indeed at the cheerfulness of the information therein. Surprised that is, until she espied the last paragraph.
Oh, by the way, I almost forgot to mention that Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy met us by chance in Cheapside. Our aunt and uncle have invited them round to visit. On my first meeting with the gentlemen, I felt a little awkward, but now I am confident that I can meet with Mr. Bingley as just good friends.Your dearest sister,
Jane.
"Oh Jane!" Cried Elizabeth out loud. "Yes, yes! Just good friends." She could not resist laughing as she turned to the next letter, which was from her aunt.
Gracechurch St.
26th April.My dearest Niece,
I shall not repeat those details of our daily lives that I feel sure your sister has already informed you about. Rather, I should dwell on those matters that I am sure she will not reveal.
Sunday last, we were most surprised by a chance (so it would seem) meeting with two gentlemen who claimed acquaintance with both Jane and you. One of the gentlemen was Mr. Bingley, of whom we have spoken, and who seemed to regard Jane with a decided degree of attachment. The other gentleman was a Mr. Darcy, Bingley's friend.
I am happy to report that Bingley and Jane seem to be getting on very well indeed. For that I am relieved, since seeing her for the last months as unhappy as she had been, was telling on my own spirits. I should also say that much as your mother is sometimes charged with exaggeration in these matters, I can only agree with her that it is only a matter of time before they will become engaged.
That, however, cannot occur till Jane is back at Longbourn with her family, and they are aware of Bingley's renewal of his addresses. It would also be good if there were a young woman of a suitable age here in London who could accompany Jane, if Mr. Bingley were to ask her to go on outings. So I urge you to come to London as soon as you are able. You and Jane can then go back together when you judge the time to be right. (That is when Bingley has pursued Jane sufficiently for her to catch him).
On another matter, there is something that puzzles me greatly.
From your own account, and that of Wickham, I would have supposed Mr. Darcy to be a most unpleasant man who would not even dream of dirtying the wheels of his carriage in Cheapside, let alone demean himself by acknowledging the likes of our family. But this is not the case at all. He was all ease and friendliness with us, and with little Thomas, if you could believe anyone outside the family could get on with that young rascal. (He managed to let all the chickens out of the coop again today! That is twice this week!)
I must admit I have a sneaking regard for Mr. Darcy. There is something pleasing in his countenance when he smiles. On making his acquaintance, I have great difficulty in reconciling the bad accounts I have had, with my own impressions which are quite to the contrary. If he has any fault, I believe it is a tendency for mischief. I suspect strongly that at age two and one half, Mr. Darcy would have been a match in that respect for our little villain Thomas.
Since you have seen him further in Kent, I would be grateful for any light you could shed on this mystery.
For my own part, I hope you will not be angry with me, but Mr. Darcy is a man with whom I believe you could be good friends.
Yours &c
Madelaine Gardiner
It just so happened that Elizabeth was not angry with her Aunt. Given the developments with Jane, the advice in the last sentence seemed quite reasonable. Indeed they could be good friends, just good friends mind you. As for a return to London; the cases were almost packed.
Chapter VI
It was Tuesday night, and as the coach trundled toward Gracechurch Street, Charles Bingley was having an attack of uncertainty. His companion looked the picture of confidence, and Bingley almost felt resentful of his calm. 'You don't have to face what I have to tonight Darcy, this is most unfair!' He thought.
His normally happy disposition had been a little perturbed earlier in the evening by his sister who had demanded to know where he was going, and with whom. He had obliged her by telling her that he was going to dinner with Darcy, but refused to tell her anything more. Bingley was one of the minority of elder brothers that disliked teasing their sisters, so her reaction of fury and petulance upset him somewhat. It was only the remembrance of her dealings with Jane that steeled his resolve.
His thought of Jane brought him back to the present. Were his clothes satisfactory? Was his hair combed properly, was his cravat in order, his shirt pressed neatly enough, had he left some food on his face? His discomfiture was relieved only by the arrival of the carriage in Gracechurch Street.
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and Jane greeted them, and over pre-dinner sherries, Darcy engaged his hosts in conversation, while Bingley, you will probably be surprised to hear, spoke mostly to Jane. Darcy was gratified that the Gardiners were a couple of considerable taste and understanding, so he was almost sorry when the butler summoned them to dinner.
They took their places, and started on the soup course.
Mrs. Gardiner lead the conversation. "Mr. Darcy, I have heard but little about you from my nieces. What part of the country do you come from?"
"From Derbyshire, Ma'am. I have an estate there called 'Pemberley', and as soon as my business ends here, I hope to go there for the remainder of the Summer."
Mrs. Gardiner looked surprised. "Well, that is a coincidence, I grew up in the Village of Lambton as a girl."
"Heavens, said Darcy, "That is but five miles from Pemberley."
They chatted amiably about the virtues of Derbyshire over the meat courses and the removes. Finally, Mrs. Gardiner broached the subject of Kent, asking Darcy how he found it.
"Well, Mrs. Gardiner, my only reason for visiting, is that my Aunt resides at Rosings Park, and family duty calls me."
"Ah yes." Replied Mrs. Gardiner, "Elizabeth has written to us of your Aunt." She smiled at her husband.
At that moment, the pudding course arrived, with a spicy aroma wafting in before.
"The recipe is something that Jane suggested, I hope you will like it." Said Mr. Gardiner, with a slight smile at Jane's blushes.
"It smells delicious," Bingley immediately piped up. "I love pudding!"
"What is it?" Said Darcy.
Bingley beamed with pleasure. "Miss Bennet, how did you know that this was my favourite?"
"In truth, Sir, I did not. It just happens that I like 'Spotted Dick' for dessert more than any other." Said Miss Bennet.
With that, they tucked into their fruity pud.
Darcy, remembering the thread of the earlier conversation, asked Mrs. Gardiner about Elizabeth's letters about Lady Catherine.
Mrs. Gardiner knitted her brow for an instant, as if trying to remember the details. "Her description of Lady Catherine was of a woman who interested herself in the affairs of her tenants, and who liked to be useful. She also apparently is a very strong willed Lady."
Darcy laughed. "Strong willed she is indeed! Miss Bennet is most diplomatic in her description though."
Mr. Gardiner looked at Darcy with a smile, "If Elizabeth had been a man, I feel sure that she would have entered Parliament. When she visited here as a girl, she used to sneak down early in the morning to read the newspapers ahead of me. I would also say that she is even today more informed than most men on the affairs of the world. Lizzy is no fool."
"Let us just say that I have no reason to argue with you on Miss Bennet's powers of understanding." Said Darcy with feeling. "But if Miss Bennet were to be a member of Parliament, then Lady Catherine would be Prime Minister. She has a ruthlessness that Miss Bennet has not. She is an iron lady, who frankly speaking, has many of the leadership qualities that some of the previous incumbents of the Prime Ministership have sadly lacked."
"Well Darcy, the ladies don't even have the vote, so I would not anticipate Lady Catherine, or an 'Iron Lady' like her, becoming Prime Minister for the next hundred and seventy years or so. Well, gentlemen, shall we retire to talk of fishing?" Mr. Gardiner rose to leave the table.
The Gentlemen then retired to Mr. Gardiner's den with the port bottle and the fishing anecdotes.
An hour later, they rejoined the ladies. Darcy, having thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Gardiner's after dinner witticisms and fishing tales was in a very good mood. Bingley, having spent most of the dinner chatting to Jane, was hardly in a worse one, and Mr. Gardiner, having secured an invitation to fish at Pemberley later in the year, thought the expense of the port well worth it.
As they were about to leave, Mrs. Gardiner said, "Well, gentlemen, we are looking forward to having you to dinner on Sunday night. There will, however, be an addition to the party. Elizabeth will be here from Kent. I think I shall let her choose the pudding on that occasion."
With that, the gentlemen made their offers of thanks and departed.
As they sat in the carriage, both were lost in thought. Bingley of Jane, and how famously they were getting on, and Darcy trying to think of when he had spent a happier evening in the last six or seven years. If Mr. Gardiner could come to Pemberley later in the year with his wife, Darcy anticipated a very stimulating summer indeed.
Chapter VII
It was Sunday evening and the carriage bearing Bingley and Darcy arrived at the Gardiners' on the stroke of seven.
They were met at the door by the butler, and by young Thomas who attached himself firmly to Darcy's leg, and no amount of coaxing by the aging servant could dislodge him. Bingley looked on, shaking his head.
"Well," Said Darcy, "I see I shall have to proceed as is."
With that he pretended to limp around the lobby with Thomas firmly attached doing a barnacle impression, much to the confusion of the butler, and the delight of young Thomas.
Darcy bade the butler take them to the Gardiners. "Mrs. Gardiner will know what to do, I feel sure."
As he limped after the butler, he affected the accent of a country yokel. "Oi me rheumatics are playin' up, an oi can 'ardly moove me legs wiv this growt on em," he directed at a gurglingly appreciative Thomas.
He looked up, and was more than a little mortified to see the fine eyes of Miss Elizabeth Bennet laughing at the sight of him.
"Ah, Miss Bennet," he mumbled in embarrassment, hoping that she had not seen or heard him. His hope was vain.
Miss Bennet said archly, "I see the elocution lessons that your parents provided were not wasted on you Mr. Darcy!"
Her further comments were stopped by Thomas shrieking "Lizzybet!!!" detaching himself from Darcy, and much to the confusion of Elizabeth, attaching himself firmly to her leg with the same vice like grip that had imprisoned Darcy.
Darcy grinned in triumph. "Ah, Lizzybet, now for your elocution lesson. Please say after me, 'Oi me rheumatics are playin up...' and start walking!" With that, he bowed as a gentleman should, indicating as etiquette demanded, that Miss Bennet should precede Bingley and himself.
Elizabeth bit her lips and limped, with Thomas attached, into the parlour.
Mrs. Gardiner quickly disengaged her son with the expertise bred of several children. Messrs. Darcy and Bingley, pretended not to notice once in the presence of the Gardiners and Jane, but Elizabeth knew that this was not the last time she was going to be called Lizzybet.
They had their sherries and started the meal much as on the previous Tuesday night, but with Elizabeth present, the conversation was even livelier at the end of the table with Darcy, Elizabeth and the Gardiners. As usual, Jane and Charles were talking so quietly, that no one else could hear.
Finally it was the pudding course.
Darcy addressed Elizabeth. "Miss Bennet. Mrs. Gardiner informed us last Tuesday night that you were to choose the pudding recipe tonight."
"Yes indeed sir, but there was a problem. My favourite pudding is the same as Jane's which you apparently had on Tuesday. My Aunt, however said she wouldn't like me to give you 'spotted dick' again. So you will have to be satisfied with muffin pudding."
"Oh Miss Bennet," whispered Darcy, "My very favourite pudding! Oohhhh!"
Miss Bennet looked in surprise as Darcy's eyes misted over.
"That is the very thing to satisfy me at this moment. Mmmmm!"
Down at Jane and Bingley's end of the table, the story was much the same, with the elder Miss Bennet also noting Bingley's apparent weakness for dessert.
With pudding over, the gentlemen then retired as usual with their bottle of port.
With the gentlemen departed, Mrs. Gardiner observed to her two nieces, "Before I married, my mother gave me some advice. It was in two parts: first 'you always catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar,' and second 'A husband who has his fill of pudding at home will never stray.' I think you both saw the gentlemen go light-headed over the muffin pud. I need not elaborate."
"But Aunt Gardiner," laughed Elizabeth, "We are not about to marry!"
"Are you not?" said Mrs. Gardiner with mock gravity.
"Well, Mr. Darcy and I are friends, I think, and Jane should answer for herself, though I think you are not far off the mark in her case."
"Lizzy! Please do not tease me so, or I shall arrange for Thomas to greet you again next time Mr. Darcy arrives."
Later that evening, as the Gentlemen were to depart, Darcy addressed Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. "I would be honoured if you would join me for dinner sometime. Would Wednesday be convenient?"
Mr. Gardiner replied, "Unfortunately, my wife and I have another engagement,...." Mr. Gardiner hesitated as he felt his wife squeeze his arm, "...but that engagement can be changed, so my wife and I are glad to accept your invitation."
Darcy smiled and bowed. "Naturally, the invitation extends to your nieces, and I should add that my sister Georgiana will be there, she is most anxious to meet you all."
The carriage arrived, Bingley said his good-byes, and so did Darcy with the little alteration that his good-bye to Elizabeth sounded suspiciously like 'Bye! Bye! Lizzybet'.
Chapter VIII
Jane and Elizabeth retired to their bedroom following the meal.
Elizabeth had been most surprised by Darcy, for though her past judgment of the man had been shown to be wrong, she could not shake off the feeling of how strange it was to see him playing with Thomas of all people, or joking with her uncle and aunt as if he had known them for years. Yet she had to admit that she had been diverted by his conversation and there was something else, a feeling that she could not describe. It definitely wasn't love or affection, she mulled over in her head, it was more like a comforting easiness in his presence, as though that is where she belonged. Elizabeth shook her head, almost as if to clear it of that farcical notion. They were not meant for each other, they were worlds apart.
Freeing herself of such confusion for the moment, Elizabeth observed her sister. Jane, always quiet, now seemed a little more withdrawn than she should, considering how well the evening had gone.
"A penny for your thoughts, Jane." She said softly. "You seem to be making very good headway with Mr. Bingley."
Jane looked at her. "Oh do you think so Lizzy? After what has happened, how can I be sure?"
"Dearest Jane, he is as attentive as ever. But this time, it seems that Mr. Darcy approves, and his sisters are absent. Whatever can go wrong now?"
"Well Lizzy, do you remember Caroline's letter."
Elizabeth's countenance darkened. She certainly did remember that piece of literary mischief, and not with any pleasantness either.
Jane continued. "Miss Bingley wrote of her hopes for Miss Darcy and Cha.., I mean Mr. Bingley, and we are to visit Miss Darcy this Wednesday. I am not sure if I can face her."
"Why ever not?" Cried Elizabeth in astonishment. "Surely you cannot credit it after the attention that Mr. Bingley has lately been showing you?"
"But what if you are wrong? What if he is merely wishing to be friends with me? I could not again go through what I have over the last months." Tears started streaming down her cheeks. "Lizzy, I don't want to lose him."
Elizabeth embraced her sister to comfort her and to staunch the flow of tears.
"And yet there is more Lizzy. I can bear Miss Darcy no ill will. She has done nothing of malice toward me. How can I face her if I am the source of her dashed expectations? Should I be responsible for her misery? How could I put her through what I have suffered?"
"Jane, in truth I do not know what to say to that. All I know is that it is Mr. Bingley's decision to make. He alone will decide who he marries, and for my part, I think that will be you. In any case, we only have Caroline's opinion on the matter, and you know how much regard I hold that in."
With that they both climbed into their beds for sleep.
The next morning, they were surprised to receive a call from Messrs. Darcy and Bingley. Mr. Gardiner was away on business, but Mrs. Gardiner and the two sisters received them politely.
After the niceties were dispensed with, Bingley spoke up.
"It is a fine day, I wonder if you ladies would like to accompany us as we take a turn around Hyde Park in my carriage?"
Mrs. Gardiner demurred. "My duties around the house will not allow me to go out this morning. But I see no harm if Jane and Elizabeth would like to accompany you."
Thus it was half an hour later that the four "good friends" were moving slowly round the Park, observing London society, and taking in the oasis of green in a rather grubby city.
As good manners dictated, the gentlemen were facing the rear of the coach, so in the distance, Elizabeth was able to see something that they could not. An apparition in orange. Orange gown, orange turban, orange feathers and a dainty orange parasol. Caroline Bingley! And she had seen them.
As they almost drew abreast, Elizabeth could see Miss Bingley looking expectantly at the carriage and its occupants.
"Good Heavens! Would you look at that!" She cried, pointing to the opposite side of the road to Caroline.
Three heads swiveled away from where they might otherwise have seen Miss Bingley.
"Look! Isn't that a Lady riding her horse astride instead of side-saddle? There, over by the lake."
As she said this, Elizabeth looked at the rapidly disappearing Caroline and gave a wicked little wave that the others did not see, so engrossed they were in the sight of the lady riding astride.
Well, they almost all did not see.
Darcy turned his head back before the others and said. "I am most obliged to you for that diversion Miss Bennet." Addressing his friend, he said, "I think we have circumnavigated this stretch of the countryside long enough now. Perhaps we can go back to back to my house for tea. I think we might have some storms coming up."
Bingley looked up at the clear blue April sky in puzzlement, but having no objection to taking tea with the ladies, merely nodded his assent.
They arrived at Darcy's just before eleven, and went straight to the parlour.
Darcy addressed them. "My sister Georgiana is at home, I wonder if I might introduce her to you."
The sisters agreed, and then waited as Darcy went to summon his sister.
Darcy and his sister were on their way back to the parlour, and were just passing the entrance hallway, when a terrible commotion erupted at the door.
"Let me in you simpleton, Let me in! I wish to speak with Mr. Darcy!"
The doorman pulled a bell to summon Greeley the butler, but stood his ground. "I am sorry Miss Bingley, Mr. Darcy is out." Georgiana looked at her brother in surprise.
"Well then, I demand to see Miss Darcy!"
Darcy's heart sank. He had forgotten to inform Georgiana of his reasons for not admitting Miss Bingley, and even if he had the time to explain to her, it would be too late to relay that message to the doorman.
"I am sorry Miss Bingley, but Miss Darcy is also out." Said the doorman. Darcy could not believe his ears.
"Well, came a menacing hiss from the other side of the door, when will they be back?"
"I have no idea Miss Bingley. I am most dreadfully sorry!"
"Sorry! Sorry!" Stormed the voice. "You most certainly will be if you do not let me in this minute, you lying toad. When I am mistress of this house, you will pay for your insolence, now let me in!"
Darcy went red with anger. 'Insolence, indeed!' he thought.
Greeley came past the two Darcys at speed and relieved the doorman, who moved out of the firing line as pale as a sheet.
Within seconds the door was closed, and Greeley apologised for the disturbance before disappearing into that limbo that butlers seemed to inhabit.
Darcy went up to the doorman, only just in control of himself. "Well done, my man! And just so that there can be no misunderstanding, Miss Bingley will never be mistress of this house! Ever!" He gave the still quaking man some coins and walked back to join his sister.
"Georgiana." Said Darcy in puzzlement after he had calmed down. "How is it that you are not 'at home' to Miss Bingley?"
"Well, Fitzwilliam, do you recall that we have a new serving maid?" Said Georgiana.
Darcy's brow furrowed, trying to recall the girl. "Do you mean that Dutch girl Lotte?"
"Why yes, she's the one. Miss Bingley was extremely unpleasant to her, for no reason at all. I did not say anything at the time, but I felt her behaviour was so bad that I had to explain to Lotte that not all of our visitors were so rude, and that in fact some of Miss Bingley's relatives were quite pleasant. I am happy to say that Lotte took it in good part, even joking that Miss Bingley's father must have liked animals, saying he had obviously had a very special friendship with a duck at some time. I'm glad Lotte is so understanding.
After that incident, I told Greeley that I was not 'at home' to Miss Bingley, whenever you were not at home. I hope you are not angry at me Fitzwilliam?"
"Angry?" Darcy laughed and hugged his sister, much to her surprise. "I have a confession, little sister. At the moment, I too am not 'at home' to Miss Bingley, but you must allow me to explain myself later. Our guests await."
With that, brother and sister proceeded to the parlour.
Chapter IX
As Darcy and his sister made their way to the parlour, Darcy sensed his sister becoming more and more uneasy. She was lagging behind him, almost as if she were trying to hide herself in his shadow.
He smiled reassuringly at her, knowing of her shyness.
"You know Georgiana, there are only two of them. One of them, Miss Jane Bennet is especially friendly with Charles, so you can hardly fear her, and Elizabeth Bennet, her sister, is a friend of mine, so she will not harm you either."
Georgiana looked at her brother curiously. "You have mentioned this Miss Elizabeth Bennet but seldom before, yet you say she is a friend? I should like to have an explanation Fitzwilliam."
Darcy smiled. "We are just good friends. That is all!"
Georgiana inclined her head, unwilling to contradict her brother, as they were at the parlour door. But now she was just a little curious about Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and it was this curiosity that lessened her fears over the meeting.
At the entry of the Darcys, the others in the parlour rose and made their bows and curtseys as manners dictated.
Elizabeth quickly sized up the situation, and noted with satisfaction that Miss Darcy and Mr. Bingley, while friendly, were not attached in any way. She also noted Miss Darcy's shyness, and her brother's unaffectedly tender concern for her.
Elizabeth, mindful of Darcy's revelation at Netherfield of Miss Darcy's musical talents, broached the subject of music. Miss Darcy, almost fearfully at first, replied with only few words, having had experience with Bingley's sisters. However, after ten minutes without a snide comment or anything like it from Miss Bennet, she started to open out. It suddenly occurred to her that perhaps, the Misses Bennet might actually share her interest in music, that perhaps instead of playing and singing alone, she might have someone interested to accompany her.
"Miss Bennet, would you and your sister like to see the music room?" Said Miss Darcy.
Darcy's eyebrows shot up in unaffected surprise.
Elizabeth looked at Jane, and said. "Well, of course, but what about the Gentlemen?"
Miss Darcy pursed her lips almost smiling. "The gentlemen have had the pleasure of you company all morning. I feel sure that they can endure the deprivation of it for the next ten minutes or so!"
Mr. Bingley did not look as though he totally agreed with this sentiment, but being inclined to be a good sport, did not protest, and the ladies departed.
After fifteen minutes had past, Bingley's patience started to wear thin. "I wonder what has happened to the Ladies? Perhaps we should seek them out."
"Why not Bingley? Let's go!"
Darcy left his seat and headed toward the music room with Bingley in hot pursuit. They stopped at the door to the music room. There was Georgiana at the pianoforte, Jane on the harp, and Elizabeth was singing a song that Darcy recognised as having been composed by Georgiana herself.
Bingley whispered under his breath. "She is an angel!" Darcy agreed, although the object of his attention was not the elder Miss Bennet.
"Ich weiss nicht was soll es bedeuten,
Dass ich so hungrig bin.
Ein Märchen aus alten Zeiten,
Das spricht vom Pudding--Unsinn!"
They listened in silence until the end of the performance, when much to the surprise of the Ladies who had not observed their presence, they applauded loudly.
"That was wonderful Georgiana." Said her brother. "What is it about?"
Georgiana smiled shyly. "I'm glad you liked it. It's about a group of German ladies who use their arts and allurements to take unwary men in."
"Oh indeed! I was most definitely taken in, but I must face my fate." Volunteered Bingley with a sly glance at Jane. Then he addressed his friend; "What about you Darcy, were you taken in?"
"My brother? Taken in? I think that most unlikely." Laughed Georgiana, mindful of what had just passed with Miss Bingley at the front door. She had seen how Miss Bingley's art had not had the least effect on her brother.
For his part, Darcy was glad of his sister's intervention, since looking at Elizabeth, he really would not have trusted himself to answer Bingley.
"Perhaps you will perform that piece on Wednesday night?" Said Darcy. "However, at the moment we have to return both Miss Bennets to Gracechurch Street. I should not like to have Mr. Gardiner coming around here wishing to fight a duel over the honour of two of his nieces, because they have overstayed."
With that, the gathering broke up, and Darcy and Bingley accompanied the sisters to their Uncle's house.
As they left the house, Charles Bingley recognised a familiar carriage, with a familiar face in the window. It was Caroline, and with a look that would strip paint from a wall. Fortunately, the others did not notice, and the trip to Cheapside was pleasant enough.
An hour or so later, Caroline Bingley burst into her brother's library absolutely livid with rage.
"Oh dear!" he said calmly. "Was your engagement this morning unpleasant?"
"Engagement! Engagement?" She fairly shrieked. "How Dare......."
"Well yes, Caroline." He interrupted without a smile, and with dangerously narrowed eyes. "You said that you had engagements that you said would prevent you from accompanying me to see Miss Bennet for four weeks. You did have an engagement didn't you?" He stood up and looked unsmilingly into his sister's face. She stood there gaping like a fish.
"Oh, and by the way Caroline. I have decided to go to Netherfield for a short time. I understand that your engagements will not allow you to accompany us."
"Us?" Whispered Caroline hoarsely.
"Why yes," answered Bingley. "I intend to invite Darcy." And on a mischievous inspiration added. "He seems to be getting on famously with Miss Eliza Bennet, you know. You may leave me in peace now Caroline."
Miss Bingley ignored this little 'hint.'
"And just what is it that you have planned for Netherfield, may I ask?" Now thoroughly alarmed by this latest information.
Bingley could scarcely now contain his annoyance. "Why Caroline, I intend to make an engagement of my own!"
With that he put his eyes down into the nearest book with an intensity that gave Caroline to believe that no further discussion was to be had.
As soon as his sister had left, Charles put the book down, went up to his desk, and started writing furiously.
Back at the Darcy's, Georgiana was talking to her brother.
"I really liked the Bennet sisters Fitzwilliam. You know, as much as I enjoy music, and singing and playing by myself. It is better with someone else, someone of my own age. I mean, you are very good to me, but I often wished that we had had another sister. Do you think it possible that we might see more of them?"
"Well," replied her brother with a sigh. "I should like to see more of them myself, but I don't know how it is possible."
Georgiana looked at her brother with such suspicion, that he suspected that she was growing up a little too fast for his comfort.
Author's Note: Zu allen Liebhaber der Lorelei Geschichte, ich bitte um Verzeihung.
Chapter X
Mr. Bennet approached his good wife with an opened letter that had just arrived in the post.
"Mrs. Bennet, would you mind reading this, and tell me what you make of it?"
"Oh, put it down over there. I dare say I shall get to it in time." She grumbled.
"Well, my dear," continued her husband "When you have found time to read what Mr. Bingley has to say, I shall be in my library."
On hearing the word "Bingley" Mrs. Bennet threw down the work she was doing and raced to the table where her husband had placed the letter, snatched it up and started to read.
London
1st MayMy Dear Mr.(BLOT) Bennet
I have been away from (BLOT) Hertfordshire for much longer than I have de(BLOT)sired. I am intending to come back to Netherfield Park in the next few weeks or so, and would very much wish to(BLOT) renew my acquaintance with your (BLOT)(BLOT)family.
I particularly desire, and seek your permission to a(BLOT)ress your eldest daughter. I assure you of the honourable nature of my (BLOT).
I trus(BLOT) tha(BLOT) all your family is well.
Yours (BLOT)&c
Charles (BLOT)ingley
Mrs. Bennet sped down the passage to her husband's den.
"Mr. Bennet! Mr. Bennet! You must write to him, you must!"
Mr. Bennet affected a degree of ignorance of his wife's intention. "Of what are you speaking my dear?"
"Oooh, you are most vexing! I am speaking of you writing to Mr. Bingley to give him permission to speak to Jane, at once!"
"Good heavens, I don't think it necessary nowadays. Most young people tend to ignore their parents. Why don't you write yourself? I am sure that is all the encouragement he would need."
"You know I cannot......OOOH! My poor nerves! Have you no compassion?" Mrs. Bennet disappeared with much wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Mr. Bennet sighed as he reached for his quill and paper. He really wanted Lizzy back to share such precious moments.
Back in London, the Gardiners and the two sisters were at Darcy's along with Miss Darcy and Charles.
They had had their main courses, with only the pudding and the cheese courses to go.
Darcy was very pleased that Georgiana was getting on so well with the Bennets. She had even agreed to accompany Jane and Elizabeth in playing the piano and harp piece that had so delighted Charles and himself a few days ago.
"Well, Georgiana, since you are the hostess, what is for dessert?" Darcy addressed his sister.
"Tonight's pudding was suggested by Lotte the Dutch maid." Said Georgiana.
Darcy looked puzzled. "Which one was she? Ahhh!" his brow cleared as he remembered. "Isn't she the one with the white cap turned up at the sides, and doesn't she wear those wooden shoes? She was feeling a little homesick, wasn't she? I seem to recall her mumbling something about dikes."
His sister shook her head. 'Men!' she thought.
"Well?" Darcy continued impatiently.
"Ah, the pudding. Well, Lotte has chosen 'Portugese Banana Pudding', Pudim de Bananas they call it."
At the end of the pudding Georgiana asked whether anyone would like some cheese to finish.
A healthy young girl in a Dutch cap, and with a ball of Edam cheese under her arm, clip-clopped on her clogs toward the table with a smile on her face.
Darcy groaned. "I take it that this is Lotte?
Georgiana replied, "How clever of you," indicating that the girl serve Mrs. Gardiner first.
Lotte obligingly peeled off a piece of Edam, handed it to Mrs. Gardiner, and stood back to await her verdict.
Mrs. Gardiner smiled at Lotte as she tasted the cheese. "Ah yes, neither tart nor bitter, and with a pleasant taste."
Lotte looked a little uncertainly at Mrs. Gardiner, not sure whether that good lady was referring to her or to the cheese.
Noticing the girl's hesitation, Mrs. Gardiner said. "Do you speak English Lotte?" V e r y s l o w l y.
"Ja, ik spreek Engels, Mevrouw Gardiner." Just as s l o w l y back, came the reply to a confused Madelaine Gardiner.
The evening proceeded pleasantly thereafter. As they were waiting for the Gardiners' carriage, Darcy managed to get Elizabeth on her own. "Miss Bennet, Charles wishes to speak to your sister alone on a matter of importance before you both depart for Hertfordshire. Would you mind very much if I organise for us to walk somewhere together tomorrow where we can leave them in peace?"
Elizabeth smiled on hearing this news, and agreed readily. Darcy, for his part thought her expression exceedingly pretty, and resolved to see if he could provoke more such smiles.
The exchange was not lost on Georgiana.
Chapter XI
At precisely ten the next morning, two gentlemen arrived at the Gardiners' house in Cheapside.
Bingley was bright and cheerful, although his companion looked a little the worse for wear, a fact that Bingley put down to his friend having had an extra serving of dessert the night before. However, since Darcy was essential to his plans for the elder Miss Bennet, Bingley would have dragged him along comatose if need be.
They took tea with the Gardiners and spoke about trivialities for a short while, when Bingley suggested that they go into town and walk around the shops. The two Miss Bennets agreed, but Mrs. Gardiner declined the invitation, having been warned by Elizabeth of the purpose of the "Walk".
After ten minutes or so of walking together, Darcy and Elizabeth looked at each other. "I should like to see some Brussels lace Mr. Darcy, would you accompany me?" Said Elizabeth.
Jane looked a little alarmed, and made to accompany them, but Elizabeth said, "Jane, you said you wanted some ribbons. There is a little shop over the road. Why don't you go with Mr. Bingley?"
Bingley shot Elizabeth a grateful look and offered Jane his arm. It was fortunate that she did, for as she crossed the road, Elizabeth noted that she did not seem to be paying much attention to what was going on around her.
Elizabeth, observing them through the windows of the lace shop saw them in deep conversation on the footpath. "Well, Mr. Darcy" she said. "I wonder what it is they are saying?"
Darcy looked at the pair, and harumphed. "It looks as though he is saying a lot, and she is saying little."
Over the road, things were going well, if not a little nervously for Jane and Charles.
"Miss Bennet, I..er...have to tell you, that is I should tell you that I am planning to go back to Hertfordshire in the next couple of weeks. That is if your father..."
"My father?" said Miss Bennet.
"Well, yes. I wrote to your father two days ago, announcing my intention to return to Hertfordshire, and asking him if I might speak with you. But I do not wish to impose on you...I mean if you do not like me... He petered out."
"What would you speak with me about?" asked Jane, wanting to be sure of his meaning.
"Miss Bennet. From the first time I set eyes on you, I was in love with you. When I left Netherfield last November, it was to make arrangements to buy some jewelry for you, the sort of which a man could only give to a fiancée'." Jane went white at this. "However, I was persuaded that you did not return my feelings, so I stayed in London in misery, till Darcy told me that I may have been misled about how you felt toward me. Did you know that he organised for us to meet by chance?" Jane shook her head, pleasantly embarrassed by the turn of events. "If you return my feelings," Continued Bingley, "And if your father gives me permission to speak, then I shall follow you to Hertfordshire directly."
"Mr. Bingley, I do care for you, I do."
Bingley let out a huge sigh of relief. "Well we should say nothing to the world about this until I come to Hertfordshire. I hope your father responds soon, dearest Jane!"
Thus the last week that the Misses Bennet were to spend in London passed happily, with the lovers supremely happy, and the friends enjoying each others' company.
On the morning the ladies set out for Hertfordshire, the two gentlemen were there to see them off.
That was a pity really, because fate, in the form of Miss Bingley, would not have had a chance to intervene had Charles been at home to receive the mail.
But as it turned out, it was a vile tempered Caroline who paid off the express rider.
She looked at the letter, addressed to her brother, and carefully prized it open so as not to damage the envelope. She then started to read.
Longbourn
7th MayDear Mr. Bingley,
I thank you for your letter of the first of May instant.
I advise that I have no objection to you speaking with my daughter Jane.
I beg to remain &c
E Bennet Esq.
Miss Bingley immediately sat down, and with a dexterity that announced that this was not her first attempt at this sort of thing, altered the "no" to "an" so that the line read:
I advise that I have an objection to you speaking with my daughter Jane.
Miss Bingley looked at the writing with a smirk, and placed a small blot to disguise the changed hand. She then resealed the letter with her own wax and ground her seal into the wax in such a way as to make it indistinguishable.
The letter was then left on her brother's desk.
When her brother returned home, she brightly announced that he had mail. She smiled as he almost ran to his study. It also came as no surprise to her that he immediately retired to his bedroom for the rest of the day.
She congratulated herself. "Now, Miss Bennet! What are you going to do about that? I see no trips to Hertfordshire from this household in the near future!"