Beginning, Section II
Prologue
This story is based on an old English Ballad called 'Jakaroo'. I found it in an Appalachian Folk Songs book for piano and voice. I loved it since it was one of the very few songs without a tragic ending. I will post a verse or two at the beginning of each part. I have taken some of the characters of the story Pride and Prejudice and written a story after the song. And so without further ado...the story begins...
There was a silk merchant,
In London he did dwell.
He had an only daughter,
The truth to you I tell,
The truth to you I tell...
The Darcys had been married very happily for a year when Elizabeth brought up a very interesting subject at the breakfast table one day.
"You know Fitzwilliam, I think it is high time that Georgiana came out." Darcy stopped eating and Georgiana dropped her fork. The two seemed to be in a complete state of shock.
"What did you say, dearest?" Darcy asked, and Elizabeth frowned.
"You know very well what I said. It is high time Georgiana came out. You have been putting it off for years."
"Years!" Darcy scoffed.
"Years," Elizabeth insisted.
"But Georgiana is only seventeen!" he exclaimed.
"I came out on my eighteenth birthday and my cousin has just come out and she is only sixteen. Georgiana will be eighteen in a week." Elizabeth replied.
"Darcy threw his napkin down angrily and scowled, as if he was already seeing Georgiana leaving his house to be mistress of her own. Elizabeth was waiting patiently for her husband's decision when she suddenly noticed that Georgiana had not said a word during the whole conversation.
"Georgiana, dearest, what do you say to the scheme?" she asked gently, bringing Georgiana out of her reverie.
"Well I -" she hesitated, looking at her brother inquiringly.
"Yes, Georgie? Please go on." Darcy said encouragingly.
"I should very much like to come out," she said quietly, and smiled at Elizabeth. They both then looked at Darcy, who had leaned back in his chair thinking.
" Very well, Georgie. You will 'come out' this year during the next season. You have my word," he finally decided, and seemed very content with his decision.
So it was decided. Georgiana was to come out during the up-coming season, (which was very soon). The Darcy's were then very busy planning for the elaborate ball they would be throwing in her honor. There were dresses to be bought and decorations to be found... and most importantly of all, an invitation list to be made and the guests invited. It was to be the most splendid ball the Darcys had ever thrown!
Part One
The Ball
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were both very flattered when they received an invitation from the Darcys to attend the ball. Mrs. Gardiner had in fact cried out in delight when she had read the invitation and letter from Elizabeth.
"What is it, mama?" sixteen year old Susan asked, dropping her embroidery and coming over to her mother.
"Do you wish to hear the whole letter, or should I tell it to you in brief?" her mother answered, smiling.
"Oh in brief, for I shall be late meeting Eleanor for tea if I should read a long letter." Susan replied.
"Very well, dear. Lizzy begins by wishing the warmest of welcome to all of us, as does Mr. Darcy and Georgiana sends greetings..."
"Mama! Will you please tell me what delighted you so much?" Susan cried impatiently, glancing at the clock on the mantle-piece. Mrs. Gardiner cleared her throat as she continued.
"She also says that little Richard is very well." She smiled as her daughter groaned. "I am getting to it, Susan! Hold on for just a moment! She then continued by saying that Georgiana will be coming out this season - and we are invited to her coming out ball!"
Susan clapped her hands in delight. "My first ball since coming out myself, Mama!"
"Dearest, the best is yet to come. Lizzy understands that you have a very good friend-"
"Does she mean Eleanor?"
"Yes of course! And she wishes that if Miss Eleanor would like to come with us when we attend to the ball, she should be more than happy to include her in the list and send her an invitation!" Mrs. Gardiner finished and watched her daughter practically dance around the room.
"Oh mama, I am so happy! Eleanor will come, I am certain! Write to Lizzy this moment!"
"But we have not yet spoken to Eleanor."
"Oh, I am leaving right now! Look at the time, I am so late! Good bye, mama!" Susan called, as she rushed out of the room.
"Good bye, Susan!" Mrs. Gardiner called after her.
Susan's prediction was right, for (with some persuasion), Eleanor agreed to accept Mrs. Darcy's invitation and go to the ball.
The Earl of Matlock and his wife were sitting together in the tearoom, enjoying a cup of tea and quiet when a servant brought in the mail. Lord Fitzwilliam glanced through it in a disinterested manner until he came to a letter from the Darcy's. Opening it he read through the letter quickly.
"Anything that would interest me?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked slowly, as if nothing in the world would ever interest her that day.
"Why yes! There is to be a ball thrown in Georgiana's honor."
"At last she is coming out!" Lady Fitzwilliam cried, sitting up. "We are invited of course..."
"Of course."
"Then we must go instantly and find Edward! Oh think of what a splendid match our eldest son and Georgiana would make!" she cried, getting up from her very comfortable chair, holding a very fat and fluffy cat in her arms.
"You have made an excellent point, my dear! We must go directly and discuss the ball with Edward." He offered her his arm which she took gratefully.
"Oh - and I am sure that there will be many fine young women there that might do for John." Lady Fitzwilliam said, as if just remembering her second oldest son.
"Come, let us not waste time. Where is Edward?" Lord Fitzwilliam asked as they left the room on their quest.
Part One (continued)
Edward and John Fitzwilliam were playing chess. John, whose close friends all called him Jack, was winning.
"Ah it's not fair for an army man to play chess against an ignorant Earl like me! Do you use those strategies in the army?" Edward scowled. "Your turn." Jack made a quick move.
"Check mate!" he cried, triumphantly.
"You have beaten me again! Col. Fitzwilliam, I congratulate you!" Edward stood up and bowed just as his parents entered the room.
"Edward what on earth are you doing?" Lady Fitzwilliam exclaimed. He quickly sat back down, explaining as best as he could that Jack had beaten him at chess. His parents didn't really pay any attention to his excuse.
"We have wonderful news! Georgiana is coming out." Lady Fitzwilliam said happily, rubbing her cat's white hair furiously.
Edward raised his eyebrow. "Then I daresay we are all invited to her coming out ball."
"Edward, darling, you are so very clever! Isn't he, Fluffy?" Lady Fitzwilliam cooed, addressing the cat.
"Not as clever as Jack." Edward said, and they exchanged knowing glances with each other as their father stormed:
"Who in the world is Jack?" Jack rose from his chair and stood at attention as Edward tried not to laugh.
"Me, sir."
"Haven't I told you boys that Jack is far too common a name for the son of an Earl! I want no more of this Jack business. Is that clear, John?" he said sternly, as if he was the only one to blame. "Now, aren't you delighted to hear of the ball, Edward?" he asked, turning.
"Of course." Edward said slowly, seeing what his father was getting at. "Excuse me father, but Jac- no John and I were going riding this afternoon. So if you will excuse us..."
"Riding! Oh, let's go with them, dear!" Lady Fitzwilliam cried.
"You go riding, Mother?" Jack exclaimed, gaping.
"Yes let's!" their father said and they headed out the door, dragging two reluctant sons with them.
The maid pulled a curl into place and Eleanor examined herself in the mirror. The maid was just leaving the room as Susan came in.
"Are you ready, Eleanor?" she asked, breathless.
"Yes."
"Then let us go down. You look very beautiful tonight," Susan complimented.
"Thank you, you look very nice yourself. But I refuse to go down until you have calmed yourself a bit. Now, take a deep breath and let it out slowly. That's it! Don't worry, everything will be fine." Eleanor, who was nineteen years old and much more accustomed to balls, instructed. "Do you think you are relaxed enough?"
"I hope so."
"You'll be fine. Are we ready?"
"I think so." The two girls started out of the door and Susan remembered that she forgot her fan. She hurried and got it and then they walked towards the ballroom, meeting Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner on the way.
Colonel Jack Fitzwilliam arrived late for the ball. Business, having to do with his regiment, had detained him. He glanced in a hallway mirror as he made his way through the great corridors of Pemberley. The ball was probably already halfway over by now.
Jack sighed. His mother had talked to him only a few days ago about the ball being his 'chance' to find the young lady who would someday become his wife. She had been right - this was a great opportunity to meet a wealthy young lady.
Jack had begun to give up hope that he would ever marry for love. A man in his situation in life, the second oldest with not much of an inheritance, had to marry a wealthy woman or else be poor. Unless, of course, his brother took him in but that would never do. No, he had to marry a wealthy woman even if love was not possible.
His thoughts were interrupted when he came into the ballroom. It was filled with people all talking, laughing or dancing. Everyone was enjoying themselves.
"Jack! Jack, it really is you. Why I almost thought you wouldn't be able to make it!" Jonathan Porter, his longtime friend shook his hand.
"Yes, it took a while. The General was in a foul mood and I'm lucky to have made it at all." Jack answered. "I can see that you are doing well. Enjoying the ball?"
"Oh yes, immensely. There are so many people who I don't know! I am acquainted with all of Darcy's friends and relatives but ..."
"I believe many of Mrs. Darcy's relatives are present also." Jack said and arched an eyebrow as he and Jonathan looked at Elizabeth's mother, Mrs. Bennet, gossiping with a friend rather loudly.
"That's Mrs. Darcy's mother, is it not?" Jonathan asked and Jack nodded grimly.
"Why Jack, there you are!" The two gentlemen turned at the sound of Edward Fitzwilliam's voice.
"Edward! Enjoying yourself?"
"Very much. Have you seen Georgiana yet?" Edward asked.
"Not yet." Jack replied, looking around for her.
"You'd better go and find her since she was asking about you only a moment ago. There she is." Jonathan said and they headed in her direction.
Georgiana was having a wonderful time. Jack managed to dance with her once, even though many young men wished to be her partner. Darcy, Jack, Edward and Jonathan were all talking together when Edward noticed someone.
"I say, look at that gorgeous creature." The other three men turned to see who Edward was looking at. They all saw her at once. She was the most beautiful woman Jack had ever seen.
Part One (continued)
Tall, elegant and beautiful she was being led over to dance. Blonde curls framed a pretty face with a perfect complexion. Her figure was very shapely and she looked lovely while dancing.
"I think you three had better stop staring soon. I'm rather embarrassed." Darcy mumbled. Edward closed his mouth, which was slightly open, and Jonathan blinked. Jack could only watch her.
"I don't remember being introduced to her...I must have been but..." Edward was shaking his head.
"Jack? Jack, are you all right?" Jonathan asked.
"Jack!" Edward said sharply, finally getting his attention.
"What, what is it?" he mumbled.
"Nothing, nothing at all." Jonathan was smiling since Jack had already turned his attention back to the lady.
"Who is she?" Jack asked dreamily. Edward smiled wickedly, deciding to have a little fun.
"Who?"
"The lady."
"What lady?"
"You know perfectly well who! The one dancing!" Jack cried.
"I do not know. Who is she, Darcy?" Edward asked.
"Hmm..." Darcy rubbed his chin. "A friend of Elizabeth's cousin...her last name was some kind of bird..."
"A bird?" Jonathan asked.
"Swan?" Edward suggested.
"Yes, that's it! Swann, Eleanor Swann."
"Eleanor Swann." Jack repeated. The other three men exchanged glances.
"You know Jack, if you would stop staring and give me a chance to talk to you I might tell you why Mother and father aren't here." Edward said, trying to get his attention. Jack finally turned his head.
"What happened to Mother this time?" he asked.
"Oh, they left for home not long before you came. Mother had another sick spell and they left. Between you and me though, I think that she was really worried about Fluffy -"
"Who is Fluffy?" Jonathan asked.
"Oh you remember. Mother's fat cat. He ate something yesterday that disagreed with his stomach. You should have heard him howling Jack."
"Hmm."
The dance was finished and Jack had lost track of Eleanor Swann. Just then Georgiana came up to them with another girl about her own age.
"Hello gentlemen. Colonel, I wanted to introduce Miss Susan Gardiner to you," she said.
"It's a pleasure, Miss Gardiner." Jack said, bowing.
"Oh and may I introduce Miss Eleanor Swann." Georgiana added as Eleanor came up to them. "Eleanor, this is Colonel Jonathan Fitzwilliam."
He bowed and she curtsied. His hazel eyes met her clear blue ones. Jack felt warm all over as he looked into her eyes.
"Hello, Miss Swann." He said finally, and she smiled.
Eleanor could hardly breath when she first saw Colonel Fitzwilliam. She did not know what to say to him and felt very foolish for feeling in such a strange way towards a man she had only just met. She was beginning to feel uncomfortable under his warm gaze and yet also liked it. She started as he asked:
"Do you enjoy dancing, Miss Swann?"
"Very much," she managed to say steadily.
"Then would you care to dance the next two with me?" Jack asked hopefully.
"I should be delighted." Eleanor said and he led her to onto the dance floor just as the song was beginning.
Edward and Jonathan watched Jack dancing with Eleanor, who was probably the most handsome girl in the room, feeling very jealous. They saw the way they were looking into each other's eyes and seemed to be in a world all their own. Love at first sight - Edward had not believed it possible but now was having doubts. They stood thus for a few moments before noticing that Georgiana and Susan were both without partners. So Edward danced with Susan and Jonathan with Georgiana. Everyone seemed very pleased with their partners.
The two dances ended and Jack led his fair partner, who seemed to be a little faint, to a chair. He sat down next to her and watched Eleanor fan herself. She was so beautiful! He suddenly found that she was watching him.
"I'm afraid you are tired, Miss Swann."
"No, not tired." She said, not knowing how to explain the rush of feeling that she felt every time her looked at her. It made her lose her breath.
"How long have you and the Gardiner's been staying with the Darcy's?" Jack asked, determined to find out as much as possible about her before another lucky man asked her to dance.
"We arrived yesterday."
"And you'll be staying..."
"Until Friday next week." She explained. "We were invited to stay longer but my parents wish me to be home soon."
"They are not here with you?"
"No, my father and step-mother are not even acquainted with Mr. and Mrs. Darcy. I was invited because Susan is my particular friend."
"Where is your family's estate?" Jack asked, trying to remember if he had heard of the Swanns' before.
"My family doesn't own an estate." Eleanor said.
"You don't?"
"No. We live in London. My father is a silk merchant and runs a very successful trade." Eleanor said proudly.
Jack could say nothing. Just at that moment however, Eleanor was asked to dance and so reluctantly left him alone. He felt crushed. She was from a family in trade. He shook his head; he did not care if she was or wasn't. All he knew was that he had very deep feelings for this woman that he had only just met.
"Edward, I want to ask you something." Jack called, walking over to his brother. "What do you know of Miss Swann?"
"Her family is in trade."
"I know that, but what else?"
"I know nothing else about her except that she has a lovely alto voice, and plays the pianoforte well, (as all young ladies seem to do). I don't think I've ever met a young lady who did not play the piano well." Edward said, feeling pleased with himself for having found out this much about her from Susan.
"She sings?"
"Yes. If you want to win her heart you'd better start practicing - I haven't heard you sing in years and I dare say you've forgotten how to. Miss Gardiner says she is very fond of singing."
"I knew she would sing - I just knew it." Jack said and Edward raised an eyebrow.
"Really? Well you'll have a chance to hear her sing tonight for I believe she and Georgiana were going to play a duet and sing together."
"Georgiana is going to play and sing in public? Who put her up to that?" Jack cried in astonishment.
"Miss Swann did. They both knew the same song very well and so decided to sing it together." Jack was astonished - Elizabeth hadn't even been able to convince Georgiana to sing in public but here she was going to sing at a ball. Edward nudged him.
"Let us join the others." He said and the two them walked into the banquet hall.
After the ball was over and all of the guests had gone, Edward and Jack, who were invited to stay at Pemberley, went into the library for a few moments of quiet.
"Edward, it was wonderful." Jack said.
"You mean she was wonderful, don't you?"
"I feel so...whenever I'm around her...I feel like I know her and have known her for years. I can't explain how I feel about her yet. But it is a wonderful feeling." Jack said and Edward patted him on the shoulder.
"I'm sure you'll find out. After all, they'll be here or a week and so will we. You'll have plenty of time to get to know each other better." Edward yawned. "I am turning in. My goodness it's late! I'm sure everyone else is already asleep."
Not everyone, however, was asleep as Edward supposed. Eleanor was talking to Susan in her room. "I didn't expect tonight to turn out the way it did."
"You mean you didn't expect to meet him," Susan said, raising her eyebrows.
"You mean Colonel Fitzwilliam? I did not expect to feel the way I felt about him then and now." Susan gave Eleanor a curious look.
"How do you feel about him? Don't pretend that you don't feel anything because I saw how you were looking at each other."
"It felt so wonderful and right to be taking with him or dancing with him. Looking into his eyes made me feel so warm and so...so comfortable, as if we were made to be together." Eleanor fiddled with her long golden braid. "Do you think he feels the same way?" she suddenly asked. Susan only smiled. "Well, good night Susan." She said, getting up and walking towards the door that led to her room.
"Eleanor, I'm sure you'll find out how he feels about you very soon." Susan called after her. "Good night!"
Part One (continued)
The next morning everyone sincerely congratulated the Darcys on their very successful ball. Everyone was in very high spirits that day. Darcy and Elizabeth were enjoying time together as they took a ride towards Lambton. Mr. Gardiner was fishing to his heart's delight while his wife sat watching him as she painted a beautiful picture of the lake. Georgiana and Susan, who had become fast friends, were reading aloud to each other from Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. Edward was watching them read with amusement since they were both crying hard in the most romantic and tragic parts.
Jack decided to take a walk through the garden, since there wasn't much else to do. That was where he found Eleanor. She was smelling a rose when he saw her and was, as always, breathtakingly beautiful. She had on a simple white dress with only a blue sash as an ornament and her hair was made up into a very ordinary bun with a few golden curls framing her face. Her simplistic beauty stunned Jack. Yet even more amazing to him was that he knew that he did not love her only for beauty but for something much more.
"Good afternoon, Miss Swann," he said, thinking of how well the name suited her.
"Hello, Colonel Fitzwilliam. It is a lovely day outside this morning, don't you think?" she said, smiling brightly.
"A very lovely morning. Do you enjoy nature as much as I do and that is why you are out here instead of inside reading, a sentimental novel, as Georgiana and Miss Gardiner have chosen to do?" Jack said and she laughed.
"I would actually be very surprised if you loved nature as much as I do," she cried. "Listen to that bird singing! I never hear such lovely music in London - not even at the finest concerts."
"When I am at home I sometimes go outside for hours to watch and listen to the birds."
"Elizabeth tells me that Matlock is very close to Pemberley. Is this so?" Eleanor asked.
"Yes. Matlock is the closest estate to Pemberley. My parents and the old Mr. Darcy and his wife enjoyed the fact that the two estates were so close since they were very good friends and visited each other very often." Jack explained.
"I remember Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam from the ball. They seemed very well educated and elegant people. You have a very handsome family, Jack." He bowed at this. "But they left early as Lady Fitzwilliam was taken ill. Do you know if she is all right?"
"I am sure that she is now perfectly fine," he said and they proceeded to walk around the gardens.
After a few minutes of admiring the flowers, Jack remembered that he had wanted to discuss music with Eleanor. "I forgot to tell you, Miss Swann, of how wonderfully you played and sang last night. I assume that you like music very much."
"Yes I do indeed! Do you?"
"I enjoy listening to music, especially when I am distressed as it calms me." He chuckled, "In fact, when I was young my nurse had to sing song after song to me before I would fall asleep at night. I still have trouble going to sleep at times."
"I have never had that problem; I fall asleep directly. What is your favorite instrument?"
"I enjoy the piano, but have always had a passion for violin music." Eleanor looked very happy at this.
"My brother Charles plays the violin very well. I hope that someday you will meet him so that he may play for you."
"I hope so too, Miss Swann," he said sincerely and they gazed into each other's eyes for a few moments before Eleanor asked:
"Do you sing, Colonel Fitzwilliam?"
"I can, but have not in a long time."
"Susan, Georgiana and I were going to sing together today. Would you and your brother perhaps care to join us?" she asked eagerly.
"I would be delighted and I'm sure Edward will be as well. Shall we be getting back now? The others will be wondering where we have gone, and you have an appointment." She nodded and they walked back together arm in arm.
During the next week everyone in the house had the great pleasure of watching Jack and Eleanor fall very deeply in love. Some argued that they had loved from first sight while others said that it was at first only attraction and then love but it did not really matter. Jack and Eleanor took long walks and rides together, admiring the nature but finding even more pleasure in each other's company. They would spend hours singing in the music room or even more often Jack would listen to Eleanor play. So, as the week drew to a close and the day arrived when Eleanor must leave, no one was surprised that both she and Jack were in an extreme state of melancholy.
Eleanor was enjoying a few quiet moments alone at the piano in the music room. It was her last day at Pemberley before leaving for London. She was unhappy for they would leave and it was possible that she would never see Jack again. They had spent some wonderful time together and Eleanor was now certain of her feelings for him. She loved him with all of her heart but now had to leave without knowing if he truly loved her. Oh there had been times when they had been together and she had been certain ... but he had never spoken the words: 'I Love You'. It was not really a wonder that she chose to play a very sad piece on the piano.
Jack knew where he would find her and so he swiftly made his way down to the music room. He was departing for Matlock that day and had to tell her before leaving how much he loved her. He had loved her from the moment he had looked into her eyes; he knew that she was the woman with whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life with from the moment he first held her hand.
He entered the music room quietly and watched her playing for a few minutes. She did not see him and he did not make his presence known to her until he saw her crying. "Miss Swann, what is the matter?" he cried, rushing over to her side and taking her hands in his. She did not reply, only tried to stop the tears from falling. "Please tell me," he begged.
"We are both leaving and might never see each other again." She whispered.
"We will be together again, I promise." He wiped away her tears and looked deeply into her eyes. "Eleanor, you know that I love you. That I have loved you from the moment we met." She gazed adoringly into his eyes.
"I love you too, Jack," she said clearly, her tears gone. They embraced and he whispered into her ear:
"Marry me, Eleanor and make me the happiest man on earth."
"Yes, I will marry you, Jack," she whispered back, and began to cry again, this time with tears of joy.
Edward found them like this a few moments later. Upon seeing him, Jack and Eleanor rose hand in hand, coming over to him.
"You are the first to know, Edward. We are engaged," Jack said happily. Edward did not look surprised in the least but he smiled and shook Jack's hand furiously.
"Congratulations Jack!" he said enthusiastically. "Miss Swann, you don't know what you've gotten yourself into, consenting to marry this brother of mine!" Edward said, and they all laughed.
"Come, let's go and tell the others before I have to leave," Jack said, and they left in search of the Darcys and Gardiners to tell them the wonderful news.
Everyone was delighted to say the least. Georgiana and Susan thought it so romantic - love at first sight! Darcy and Elizabeth heard of the engagement and remembered their own difficult courtship, and so spent the rest of the day gazing into each other's eyes. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were both absolutely delighted. Edward was just happy for the couple. Jack and Eleanor also asked everyone to keep the engagement a secret since Jack had not spoken to Mr. Swann and everything was not finally settled.
After a few moments Jack and Edward had to leave for Matlock. Eleanor did not cry this time, as she had his promise that he would be coming to London within a week to ask her father for her hand.
She had sweethearts a-plenty,
She courted day and night.
Till on Jackie Fraiser
She placed her heart's delight,
She placed her heart's delight...
Part Two
You may lock me in a dungeon,
It's hard to be confined.
There's none but Jackie Fraizer,
Will ever suit my mind,
Will ever suit my mind...
The carriage made its way slowly through the muddy roads toward London. It was a dismal, rainy day to be traveling, but Eleanor and Susan were in very high spirits.
"I am so happy for you, Eleanor! I was sure you two were a match the moment I saw you look at each other!" Susan said.
"Then you are very perceptive, Susan, but I must remind you not to say anything of the engagement to anyone. I wish to avoid any publicity until everything is finally settled." The Gardiners assured her of their secrecy just as the carriage was arriving in London.
Pemberley was only a few miles away from Matlock, so Jack and Edward had a very pleasant ride back to their home. The Earl and his wife were very glad to see their two sons again after a weeklong separation. Lady Fitzwilliam, in fact, forgot about poor Fluffy since her dear Edward was coming home.
"Oh Edward it is so good to see you! You have been gone for such a long time! I'm so sorry that I fell ill during the ball. I still feel faint but am much better now that you are home. How was your stay?" she asked, hugging Edward tightly.
"The same as always. Although I believe John enjoyed the visit more than I did," Edward said, giving his brother a wink.
"Did he indeed? I'm glad to see you too, John." Lady Fitzwilliam said but forgot to hug him, already having become preoccupied in asking Edward questions as they all entered the house.
The carriage drew up to the rather large and very respectable home of the Swanns. Eleanor stepped out of the carriage and was almost immediately gathered up into her step-mother's arms.
"Oh Eleanor I missed you so!" Mrs. Swann cried, hugging her even tighter before letting her go only to be embraced by her father. They then all walked into the house.
"Charles!" Eleanor cried as her elder brother came over to greet her. "We have not seen each other for quite some time. How was Europe?"
"It was absolutely wonderful, just as everyone said it would be. I enjoyed myself very much," he said, kissing her cheek.
"It is good to have you both home at last." Mr. Swann said.
The Swanns were known throughout London as the owners of the largest silk company in the city, or perhaps even in all of England at the time, but also as very respectable people. They both possessed good taste and their merchandise was always of the best quality and price. The Swanns were also known to be one of the most handsome families in London. Both Mr. and Mrs. Swann were good looking and their children were extremely handsome. Everyone who knew them looked upon the family as being good people.
Despite Mr. and Mrs. Swann's good manners and taste, they both had one major fault - pride. They were extremely proud of Charles who had been admitted into Cambridge and was considered by everyone to be a very fine young man. They adored Eleanor for her beauty and character.
A person might wonder how Eleanor and Charles did not grow up to be spoiled brats. The reason was very simple - Mrs. Swann was their stepmother. Their real mother, Mr. Swann's first wife, had died when Eleanor was fourteen and Charles sixteen. But she had been an extremely good mother and had lived long enough to bring her two dear children up in the right way.
"You look changed, my dear. Is anything wrong?" Mr. Swann asked anxiously.
"Quiet the contrary, father. I am in very high spirits today." Eleanor said, smiling even wider as she thought of her secret.
"Eleanor is just happy to be home, aren't you dear?" Mrs. Swann said and Eleanor nodded.
After an hour of talking, Mr. and Mrs. Swann had to leave as they were invited to a dinner party. Charles and Eleanor were also invited, but both declined as they were tired. As soon as their parents had left the room, Charles turned to his sister.
"Now Eleanor..." he began in a teasing elder brother voice, "Tell me more about this Colonel Fitzwilliam. You did not mention him often but your whole face lit up every time you did."
"Oh Charles, as always you are so observant! The reason my face lights up is because we are engaged." Charles was stunned to say the least.
"But you've only known each other for a week. You cannot be serious!" he cried, taking her hands.
"I am in complete earnest. One week can be enough. Indeed I knew that I loved him the moment I saw him. And he loves me," she said dreamily. Charles saw the look on her face and decided not to argue any longer.
"Then he had better be worthy of you, or else..."
"He is worthy. In fact, perhaps it is I who am not worthy of him." Eleanor assured him confidently.
"Then I am very happy for you, although I doubt that you aren't worthy of him," Charles said and kissed his sister on the cheek. 'But I am afraid that father and Mother Helen will not be very pleased. They don't like soldiers or the army at all."
"I'm sure that they will love him almost as much as I do as soon as they meet him," she answered.
Everything was, as usual, very quiet that evening at Matlock one day after Jack and Edward's return. Lord Fitzwilliam was reading by the fire, sitting in his favorite armchair. His wife sat opposite him, propped up in her armchair with many pillows to make the chair almost as comfortable as the softest of feather beds. Fluffy was in her lap of course, making all sorts of strange snorting-like noises. Edward and Jack were again playing chess, but this time Edward was winning.
"Checkmate!" he cried, very satisfied with his work.
"How could you have beaten me? No one has beaten me in such a long time ..." Jack stared at the chessboard in a confused way.
"Perhaps because you were thinking of Eleanor and not of a good battle strategy?" Edward winked and Jack grinned.
"Maybe so," the two brothers laughed.
"Who is Eleanor?" Lady Fitzwilliam asked, sitting up a little further in her seat. Jack and Edward shared glances.
"Who indeed?" Edward said and Jack gave him a look.
"My fiancée, Mother." Jack answered.
Instantly the calm atmosphere in the house was broken. Lord Fitzwilliam, who had just begun to drink a small glass of port, choked and dropped his book. Lady Fitzwilliam actually dropped her cat and gasped:
"Your what?"
"My fiancée, mother." Jack said, rather annoyed at her reaction. If it had been Edward announcing that he was engaged she would have been overjoyed...
"You must be joking," Lord Fitzwilliam said as a servant handed him his fallen book.
"Yes, you must be. Why I thought you never intended to marry! Besides, you are far too old to marry. Why, well over thirty!" Jack was, by this time, very angry at his mother.
"I have been thirty for only three months. You have not even asked who she is! And besides, Edward is thirty-three!" he cried angrily and Edward started to cough, taking out his handkerchief and covering his mouth.
"Oh, are you all right, Edward! Is he really thirty-three?" his mother cried. He nodded, trying to contain his laughter.
"Who is she, John?" the Lord asked, seeming to have regained his composure.
"Her name is Eleanor Swann and she is the loveliest woman on earth." Jack said dreamily. His father did not seem impressed.
"What did you think of her, Edward?"
"She is a very beautiful, accomplished and intelligent young lady. I highly approve of Jack -uh- John's choice." Edward said, and his parents seemed to relax at this.
"Swann...I've heard that name before..." Lady Fitzwilliam was saying.
"Where does she live?" Lord Fitzwilliam asked.
"In London, sir."
"I meant where is her family's estate?" But Jack did not have a chance to answer as his mother burst out:
"Why, the Swanns, of course! They run the largest silk and fabric stores in London. How very stupid of me, I should have remembered for I always buy my fabrics at Swann's..."
"Son you have engaged yourself to a woman in Trade!?" Lord Fitzwilliam shouted. Jack nodded. "I will not allow it!" Lady Fitzwilliam by this time had realized to whom her son had become engaged and began to have a fainting spell.
"In trade..." she murmured before falling gracefully back onto her pillows.
Everything went absolutely chaotic. Lord Fitzwilliam, who was opening his mouth to begin bellowing at his son about wanting to marry a woman in trade, saw that his wife had fainted. He rushed to her side but in his haste tripped over the unfortunate Fluffy and stepped on her tail. The cat began howling and screeching in a most unpleasant manner. Lord Fitzwilliam yelled for the servants.
Lady Fitzwilliam was just reviving when she heard the poor cat's howling. She immediately fainted again after saying: "Help Fluffy."
The servants hurried into the room. Several of them began trying to revive the Lady while four others were given the most unpleasant task of trying to calm Fluffy and 'help her' by giving her medication, if necessary. Lady Fitzwilliam was soon revived and helped, (or rather, carried), up to her room with her husband following.
But the pussy was still howling. One servant had already gone down to the servants' quarters in search of someone who would patch up his badly scratched and bleeding hands. "Go get a bag," one intelligent servant finally said and at last they got the thrashing and still howling Fluffy up to her mistress.
Jack and Edward were left alone in peace and quiet. Jack sat down heavily and sighed. Edward hurriedly poured himself a glass of port as he said:
"I think that went really well, don't you?"
Part Two (continued)
Betsy hurried down the servants' stairs and into the hot kitchen. She was tired from all of the excitement and wanted to have a hot cup of tea and gossip a bit about what had just happened upstairs before Lady Fitzwilliam would want her again.
"I heard of the commotion upstairs. What happened?" Liza asked as she sat down for a moment.
They made a funny pair - Betsy the perfect maid: pretty, small and neat; Liza on the other hand was large with a big floury apron over equally floury dress and had very rosy cheeks - the perfect cook. Mr. Winters, the old butler put down his newspaper.
"What commotion?" he asked loudly, being rather hard of hearing and all.
"Well," Betsy began, "you all know that Master Edward and Jack came home yesterday?"
"Yes, yes! Everyone knows! What of all the excitement?" Liza cried.
"Patience! I was in the large sitting room, bringing in some tea, when I heard Master Jack say that he was engaged!"
"Engaged!" Liza cried, delighted.
"Engaged?" Mr. Winters repeated, thinking that he had heard wrong.
"Engaged," Betsy said confidently and sipped her tea.
"To whom?" Liza asked eagerly.
"To Miss Eleanor Swann and she is in trade," Betsy said, leaning back in her chair very satisfied with herself for finding out this bit information.
"In trade!" Liza cried, astonished (and delighted).
"In trade?' Mr. Winters said, feeling absolutely certain that his ears were tricking him.
"Yes! That was when Master choked on his port and dropped his book. Mistress was so surprised that she actually dropped Fluffy!" Betsy was really enjoying herself.
"No!" Liza cried.
"Eh? What was that?" Mr. Winters was saying. He was sure he was mishearing everything! Jack engaged? Fluffy dropped? Impossible!
"Yes, she dropped him and gasped: 'What?!'" The two girls giggled and were joined in by the entire kitchen staff who were by now all listening to this delicious tale. "I helped Master retrieve his book, then they talked for a while, oh yes, Mistress was absolutely astonished to find out that 'dear' Edward is over thirty!" Everyone laughed. "Then Master learned that she was in trade..." Everyone held their breath, "and then the real chaos began - Master started yelling something terrible, saying he wouldn't allow it and all that!" Everyone laughed uproariously. "Then Mistress fainted, of course Master rushed to her side but first stepped on Fluffy's tail." Betsy was practically shouting now, everyone was laughing so hard. "That cat yowled and screeched something awful. You all know the rest ... Mistress was taken upstairs with Master and the puss is probably still nursing his tail on that luxurious bed of Mistress's. Poor Master Jack." Betsy finished just as her bell rang and she ran off.
Liza finished wiping the tears from her eyes. She was very satisfied with this bit of news to spread around. Dropped Fluffy indeed! How delightful!
"Hello Mr. Winters," a tall young man said, stepping into the kitchen. "Matt said I could find you here. I wouldn't have bothered you like this but Lord Fitzwilliam did say that I was to hand his letters to you and you only."
"Why hello, Tom! You are always welcome here. Thank you for bringing the post, but I suppose you had no choice," Mr. Winters said. "Have you heard the news? Master Jack's engaged to Miss Eleanor Swann!"
"No! Why I was only there yesterday delivering a letter! You don't say .... Oh, her family is in trade you know ..."
"Aye, we know it and my, what a fuss the Master made about it! Betsy just told us all about it. Spread the word - the Missus dropped Fluffy!" Everyone laughed again. Liza tried a spoonful of her soup. "Something's not right. Try it, Winters."
"Too bland," he said, (as many old men tend to say). Tom tried it as well.
"No, too salty!" he cried. "Where is my little Betsy anyway?"
"She is working and you'd better be off or else you'll be in trouble," Liza said and Tom hurried off without any letters to deliver, but a wonderful piece of gossip to pass on to his sister, Mary. Betsy came back in just as he left.
"You missed Tom, Betsy," Winters said and she looked very disappointed.
"Oh Betsy, come here and try this soup. Is it any good? Winters says bland and Tom says salty," Liza begged and Betsy took a spoonful.
"Too thick!" she cried and reached for a pitcher of water just as Liza threw a wet towel into her face.
The Matlock home had again regained its usual order and quiet the next day. Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam were spending time together in her room trying to invent ways to detach John from Eleanor Swann. The Earl was pacing about the room while his wife was lying in bed very comfortably propped up by many pillows with Fluffy sitting lazily in her lap.
"He cannot be very attached to her. They have only known each other for one week..." Lord Fitzwilliam was saying solemnly.
"But my dear, you proposed to me two days after we met. Weren't you attached to me? Aren't you?" Lady Fitzwilliam pouted.
"Of course I am, but I am not talking about me. I am talking about my youngest son."
"Oh, of course dear." Lady Fitzwilliam said.
"She is in trade..." Lord Fitzwilliam shook his head. "I should have thought he would have known better ..."
"I remember Eleanor Swann." Lady Fitzwilliam started, "A pretty girl with a lovely voice and good character, (although she was much too spirited for me). Her family is very rich, did you know that? Perhaps it will be all right?"
"That is beside the point!" her husband almost shouted.
"Yes, darling," she murmured.
"For him to even consider marrying a woman in trade! It would be a disgrace to our family name! And to enter into the engagement without consulting me first ... I am most seriously displeased!"
"Of course you are. John always was headstrong and did everything without asking permission. Joining the army for instance." They both sighed heavily, and then with some thought she continued, " I will have a small talk with him, my love. Afterwards you may talk to him. Together we will put a stop to this foolish idea."
"You are right. Now I am going down to the library and will think this over." He kissed her on the cheek before leaving. She rang the bell for Betsy as soon as he left.
Mary was a very good nurse, the best the Gardiner's had ever had. She was patient, kind, understanding ... all of these things excellent qualities in a nurse. Like most young women, however, she loved to hear a bit of gossip and pass it on if it was at all worth hearing, and the piece of news that her brother Tom had just told her was.
"Good morning, Sally." She said brightly as she brought the breakfast trays into the nursery. None of the children were there as they were all still asleep. Sally was just making a fire in the hearth.
"Good morning, Mary." Sally finished making the fire and started to dust before looking around and then whispering, "I've had a rather hard week. Be a dear and cheer me up with some interesting news. I heard that Tom stopped by home last night and he always brings you such wonderful news!" Mary put down her tray and the two young women sat in the chairs and leaned toward each other confidentially.
"Indeed, I have some news, good news! You know Miss Swann, don't you?" Mary said excitedly.
"The pretty young lady who is such good friends with Miss Susan?"
"Yes! She is going to be married to, guess who? The Earl of Matlock's youngest son, Colonel John Fitzwilliam."
"Oh, how wonderful! It is so romantic because she is in trade and yet he is still willing to marry her!"
"Yes, but Tom said the Lord and Lady weren't too pleased to find this out. So we'll see what happens ..."
Mary finished just as eleven-year-old Rebecca came into the room. The two maids hurriedly stood up and Sally left the room. Mary helped serve Rebecca her breakfast.
"Is Eleanor really engaged?" Rebecca asked innocently. Mary continued pouring the tea, but was blushing furiously for having been overheard.
"Pay no mind to our idle gossip, miss. Eat your breakfast, if you please," she said quickly.
Rebecca did as she was told, but knew she had heard correctly. Soon the other young Gardiners came to eat their breakfast. Their mother also came into the room.
"Mary, would you please get the children ready for an outing at twelve o'clock? We are invited to tea at the Swanns'. Could you make sure they are ready?" Mrs. Gardiner asked.
"Of course, ma'am." Mary answered.
At the appointed time, the Gardiners and their five children were all ready to visit the Swanns'. They set off and arrived right on time for tea. Susan and Eleanor were absolutely delighted to see each other again, as always. Eleanor was also particularly happy to see Rebecca again as they had not seen each other for a very long time. Rebecca had been ill for a few months and this was actually the first time she had been out since taking ill.
"Rebecca, I am so glad to see you recovered! How is your cough?" Eleanor asked, holding the girl at arms length.
"Been gone for two whole weeks!" the girl said proudly.
"Good! Why Rebecca, I believe you have grown a full inch since I last saw you. How wonderful! I thought that sick children didn't grow while ill but I see that you have!" She hugged the girl close.
"Aye, she is our miracle child." Mr. Gardiner said.
"It's nice to see you well again, Rebecca." Mrs. Swann said.
They were just sitting down to tea when Rebecca remembered... "Oh yes, Eleanor!"
"Hmm?"
"May I congratulate you on your engagement to Colonel John Fitzwilliam or was it Fitzgeorge? I can't remember, but congratulations!" Rebecca said, happy to have said it.
The room was absolutely quiet. Rebecca was suddenly terribly afraid that she'd said something terribly amiss.
Part Two (continued)
Luckily, the Swanns were in when the Fitzwilliams arrived at their home. Both he and his wife thought it very fortunate, as they had wished to discuss with them an important matter, the idea of 'Jack' marrying Eleanor. The Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam entered into the parlor with as much dignity as possible and were received with true cordiality.
"Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam! It is a true honor." Mrs. Swann said graciously.
"We are very, ahem, happy to be here. But we have come on important business." Lord Fitzwilliam said rather stiffly.
"You may think me bold, my Lord, but does this business have anything to do with the intended marriage of your younger son John, and my daughter Eleanor?" Mr. Swann asked.
"It does." Lord Fitzwilliam replied and Mr. Swann nodded.
"Do sit down," Mrs. Swann said, hoping to relax the rather tense atmosphere. Everyone sat in the comfortable chairs. Mr. Swann finally cleared his throat and said,
"I don't approve of your son."
"And, I don't approve of your daughter," Lord Fitzwilliam immediately shot back.
"Then we are agreed?" Mr. Swann said hopefully, relaxing completely. Lord Fitzwilliam smiled and nodded his head.
"There is to be no marriage."
It was late when Jack arrived at the Darcys townhouse in London. There had been a mess in his regiment - a nasty brawl had broken out which Jack had to handle. It was now a week since he had last seen Eleanor and he was looking forward to the prospect of being with her again. So, despite the rainy weather and late hour, the Darcys welcomed a very cheerful Jack into their home.
"Hello, Jack. How are you this evening?" Elizabeth said warmly.
Darcy stifled a yawn. "He looks keen enough. Hurry inside, Jack. I'm about to fall over."
"I see that you are in excellent humor today, Darcy." Jack said dryly as they walked inside.
"Good evening, Jack." Georgiana said, also looking very tired.
"Good evening? It's midnight! Good night if anything at all!" Darcy complained.
"Fitzwilliam haven't you any manners at all?" Elizabeth scolded as they walked towards the sitting room.
"Not at this hour of the night," he mumbled and Jack laughed.
"Don't despair, Darcy! Lead me to my room and I shall let you all sleep." Jack laughed again and then they all said goodnight and went to bed.
The next morning found everyone in excellent spirits and they all ate breakfast together cheerfully and without any arguing.
"What do you plan to do during your stay in London, Jack?" Darcy asked and sipped his tea.
"Nothing much. I'll perhaps attend a few balls, come to a few parties ..."
"Aren't you planing to visit anyone in particular?" Georgiana hinted.
"Yes, as a matter of fact. I am going to speak to Eleanor's father today." Jack said happily. Darcy coughed.
"I'd like to see you in my study after you are finished with breakfast, Jack."
After giving his wife an affectionate glance, Darcy left the room. Jack soon followed, leaving the two ladies to wonder what they were going to speak about. The two men sat in the study for a few minutes in silence.
"There have been some rumors going around about you and Eleanor." Darcy finally began.
"Rumors?" Jack was puzzled - they had told only close family and friends!
"Apparently the rumors were started at Matlock. It is of no great importance, but perhaps you might like to know that the rumors have reached Mr. and Mrs. Swann about your engagement to their daughter. It is reported that they are not very pleased with the idea of their daughter marrying an Army man, even though he is the son of on Earl. Mind you, I have no proof that this is true, they are all only rumors. But I think that you should prepare yourself for the worst."
"Thank you for telling me Darcy." Jack sighed. "I hope what you say is not true. Mother and Father are already against the engagement. If Eleanor's parents are against me too then the four enraged parents might join together to separate us." The two men laughed, thinking such a thing impossible. "Well, is anything new going on with you and your family since we last parted?"
Darcy sighed, "Something has happened with Georgiana in the past week."
"Indeed? What is the problem?" Jack saw the look on Darcy's face and smiled, "It isn't a love affair, is it?"
"Not yet."
Jack sat up straighter in his seat. "You're not serious."
"I am."
"I need a glass of port." Jack hurriedly poured himself a glass. "So who is the fellow?"
"Do you know Lord Derby?"
"Who doesn't? A richer Lord there never was. He has a grand estate not far from here, I believe. He has three children, although the mother has died." Realization suddenly hit him. "Not him! Why he must be at least forty! Almost old enough to be her father!" Darcy sighed.
"He is Edward's age - 33. He looks much older than he really is. I think it is because he has been in such a depression ever since his wife died three years ago. He almost forgets that he has children, so how could he really take care of himself properly? It's a good thing he has servants...Georgiana first met him at her coming out ball and has seem him twice since then at different parties. Her sentimental heart went out to him. It is not love yet and he does not show any sign of feeling anything for anybody. Sees nothing but his own troubles. I don't like the man."
"Darcy, you are unkind! He was one of the best men that ever breathed - before his wife died that is...and perhaps he will rally again if Georgiana tends to his heart."
Darcy shook his head. "I knew something like this would happen and look! Two weeks after her coming out and you already hear wedding bells!" Darcy put his head in his hands. "I can't stand having my baby sister grow up and get married to such a very old depressing man." Jack could hardly keep from laughing.
"He isn't much older than you or me! Don't despair, Georgiana is a grown woman and can take care of herself. She will be fine. And I'll wager that she won't be married for another two years at least - Lord Derby or no Lord Derby." Jack patted Darcy on the shoulder before leaving the room after saying: "I'm going to pay that call to Mr. and Mrs. Swann now. Wish me luck!"
Part Two (continued)
The day was a fine one, especially for September. Jack made his way up the steps of the Swanns' townhouse and wondered which room was Eleanor's. Had she seen him coming up the steps? Would she greet him? But no, he was shown into the study where Mr. and Mrs. Swann were waiting for him.
"Colonel John Fitzwilliam," the servant announced. Jack bowed.
"Good afternoon. I have come here on very important business," Jack began, but Mr. Swann held up a hand, silencing him.
"You have come to ask permission for my daughter's hand. Well, I am a bearer of bad news for you." Mr. Swann's face was impassive.
"Has something happened to Eleanor?" Jack asked.
"No, she is in perfect health, but she has requested that you not call her Eleanor but Miss Swann." Jack blinked.
"What do you mean, sir?"
"My daughter has broken off her engagement to you, saying that it was a foolhardy thing to do, an impulsive act that she now regrets. I have now the unpleasant task of asking you to release her from the engagement. Since you seem to love her, I am sure that you cannot hold her to something that will give her pain," Mr. Swann finished, and sighed. Jack's face had turned to stone.
"May I ask why she did not tell me in person?" he said coldly, his voice choking.
"She does not wish to see you again, sir. I am sorry, for your sake." Mr. Swann said.
"I will not hold her to the engagement," Jack drew a long breath, "good day Mr. Swann, Mrs. Swann." He then left the room and house as quickly as possible.
Mr. Swann smiled grimly at his wife, "I am sure we did the right thing," he said.
"Of course, dear, this is what we agreed with the Fitzwilliams to do. But what do we tell Eleanor?"
"Leave that to me, I already have a plan," Mr. Swann said, just as their daughter entered the room.
"Papa, Ella, the maid, said that Jack was here! Where is he? Was it really him?" she asked, looking around the room. Mr. Swann put his hand on her shoulder.
"Eleanor, I have to tell you something that is going to hurt you very much. Colonel Fitzwilliam came to break off the engagement. He said - he said that he had acted too impulsively and now regrets his decision. I am so sorry, Eleanor." She looked up at him with tear-filled eyes.
"Is it true?" she said softly, looking at Mrs. Swann.
"It is true," she answered and Eleanor ran from the room.
Everything was a blur. She didn't love him. Tears threatened to fall and Jack stumbled down the steps of the Swanns' townhouse. He should have known that a young woman of nineteen would never marry a man eleven years older than herself, unless for the very deepest of love. And it was not the deepest kind of love, at least not on her side.
Jack had loved her, with all of his heart and now every hope was dashed into a million pieces. He struggled to hold back the tears as he made his way from the house. He would hardly have noticed the person he bumped into, but the man addressed him,
"Are you Colonel 'Jack' Fitzwilliam?" Jack nodded. "How do you do?" The young man shook his hand furiously. "I saw you coming out of our house, noticed your uniform and thought that you looked very much like the man my sister had described. I put it all together and made a lucky guess." Jack didn't really hear what the man was saying. "I say, sir, are you quite well?"
"What's your name?" Jack mumbled.
"Charles Swann, at your humble service. Would you like to step back inside?"
"Excuse me, Mr. Swann," Jack said, and hurried off.
Charles decided not to follow him, but instead went into the house in search of Eleanor. He had expected to meet a very happy Jack Fitzwilliam, but this man looked more like he was broken-hearted. Something was wrong, Charles could tell by the atmosphere. He hurried up to his sister's room and heard her crying softly. He knocked.
"Eleanor, it is Charles, may I come in?" Hearing a muffled 'yes', he entered the room to find Eleanor staring out of the window. "What happened?" he asked.
"Oh Charles," she cried, rushing into his arms. "He doesn't love me! He broke off the engagement!"
"Are you serious?" Charles exclaimed.
"Yes, he came to visit father and told him. He wouldn't even see me."
"Eleanor, I think that you are mistaken. I only just met Jack on the street, a tall fellow was dark brown, wavy hair and hazel eyes, I think."
"That is Jack."
"His eyes were filled with tears. He looked broken-hearted. Eleanor - I think that something is very wrong. I'm not sure what, but I mean to find out. In the meantime, you run outside and see if Jack in anywhere near. He might not have gone too far. Run, Eleanor, as fast a you can!"
Part Two (continued)
Eleanor ran as she hadn't in a long time, but it was too late. Jack was nowhere to be seen and she went back home to hear raised voices coming from the direction of her father's study.
"You lied. You told Eleanor that he's broken off the engagement when his real errand had been to come and ask permission for her hand!" It was Charles' voice.
"Is that so impossible? I did what I thought was best, for both of them," Mr. Swann answered calmly.
"You ruined you own daughter's best chance of happiness in marriage. She loved him, father."
"I don't like your tone, young man. How dare you speak to your own father so disrespectfully? I ask you to leave this study at once," Mr. Swann said firmly, his eyes glinting with anger.
"I will do more than that, sir. I am leaving this house!" Charles said hotly, and left the room.
Jack entered the Darcy townhouse. Darcy, Elizabeth and Georgiana all greeted him the moment he came through the door. They had smiles on their faces, waiting for the supposedly good news. Darcy's smile, however, disappeared when he saw the look on Jack's face. He took Jack by the arm and led him to his study. The ladies were left to wonder what had gone wrong during Jack's visit to the Swanns.
"Are you all right? I've seen that look on a man's face before. First on Bingley's, now yours. What has happened?" Darcy asked as soon as they sat down.
"Eleanor broke off the engagement. She said it was foolish and impulsive. Wouldn't even see me so her father gave me the message." Jack managed to say. Darcy was silent for a few moments.
"I- I'm sorry, Jack. I understand how you feel. Do you - do you need some time alone?" Jack nodded. "Why don't you go up to your room and rest." Jack left the room and Darcy sat alone for a few minutes until Elizabeth came in.
"What happened, Fitzwilliam?" she asked, coming over to him, "Jack looked very...very..."
"Eleanor called off the engagement."
"Oh no!"
Darcy shook his head. "Something is not right. Jack said that she would not even see him, Mr. Swann spoke for her."
"He must have been lying! Eleanor truly loves him, I am sure." Elizabeth cried.
"I don't know what to do. Poor Jack is heartbroken and Eleanor ... I wonder what the truth is."
Mrs. Swann knocked on her stepdaughter's door. "Eleanor, may I come in?"
"Yes," came the cold reply. Mrs. Swann entered to find Eleanor sitting in front of her dressing table, looking into the mirror.
"Are you all right, my dear?"
"Yes, just fine." Eleanor said sarcastically. "Now if you will excuse me, I am going to pay a visit to the Gardiners," she said and swept past her stepmother, who was bewildered at her cold behavior.
Eleanor found Charles at the Gardiners' and together they told Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner of the problem. It was decided that they should pay a visit to the Darcys' in the morning. Eleanor wished to go there immediately, but this hope was squelched by the fact that it was already much too late to go calling.
Breakfast was served early in the morning at the Darcy's home. It was eaten in almost complete silence. Jack look as though he had not slept all night, but no one seemed surprised and had the courtesy not to ask him about it. Jack left directly after breakfast for his parents' house, as he had learned they were in town.
Both parents greeted him when he came into the house, and he told them the sad news immediately.
"Oh John," gushed Lady Fitzwilliam, "I am so sorry for you!" She gathered him into her arms for a few moments.
"But I thought you would be glad to hear that the engagement was at an end." Jack sputtered bitterly.
"Glad that our son is heartbroken? Do you really think us so heartless?" his mother cried, seeming to be very offended.
"We saw this coming, John. She only wanted you for the title. You deserve better, son." Lord Fitzwilliam said.
"Why don't you go and get some rest dear. You look as though you are about to fall over. Did you not sleep last night at all? You poor boy!" Lady Fitzwilliam soothed. Jack nodded, but he didn't feel much like resting. His father cleared his throat noisily.
"John, you have an urgent letter from General Hawkins. It arrived two days ago and I would recommend reading it immediately. It is on the desk in your room," Lord Fitzwilliam said and Jack hurried upstairs.
When Jack came back down after only a few minutes he found his father in his study. Jack entered the room and placed the letter before him.
"I am ordered to go to Sweden and meet a with a small group of Swedish soldiers. From there we will travel to Germany. I am to go as a military witness for the British army," Jack stated simply.
"When will you be leaving?"
"Today at 3 o'clock p.m. on the ship called 'The Mermaid'." Lord Fitzwilliam rose from his seat.
"Perhaps this is a good thing. You will be able to get away for a time. It's written that the Swedes are newly trained, so I doubt you will be part of any action in Germany."
"I am not worried, sir, in fact I am rather glad to get away from - from England," Jack said.
"Goodbye, son. God speed."
"Goodbye, Father." Jack said, and left the room. Lord Fitzwilliam smiled, everything was going according to plan.
'The Mermaid' had been out to sea for fifteen minutes when Eleanor and the Darcys arrived at the home of Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam to see Jack. Alas, they arrived too late, for Jack was gone and Eleanor did not have a chance to make things right between them.
When her parents saw him coming
They in an anger flew.
They gave him forty shillings
To bear him far away,
To bear him far away...
Part Three
He sailed all o'er the ocean
All o'er the deep blue sea.
So safely he got landed
In the wars of Germany,
In the wars of Germany...
Jack stared up at the large ship that was soon to bear him far from England; far away from Eleanor. Perhaps in a distant land he would be able to forget...
"This way, Colonel Fitzwilliam," a rather short and stocky man addressed him, breaking Jack's thoughts.
He was being led up the gangplank onto 'The Mermaid'. She was a large ship, one that any sailor could be proud of. His cabin was not unpleasant either, having a round porthole and enough room to move around.
"Do ya need anythin', sir?"
"No, thank you."
The sailor left the cabin and Jack was alone, but not for long. He was soon introduced to the Captain Barrow, First Mate West and the crew. Last of all, he met the Swedish gentleman with whom he would be traveling.
Jack had never seen a Swede before, but he had heard descriptions of them. The description fit this man exactly. He stood the tallest onboard and Jack wondered how he fit in his cabin. He had sky blue eyes that seemed to be able to see right through you. Andrew Mattsson was a man everyone could respect.
"I am very happy to meet you, Colonel Fitzwilliam." The Swede pronounced 'Fitzwilliam' with difficulty.
"You may call me Jack." Andrew smiled.
"Then you must call me Anders," he said.
"I understand that we are to travel to Sweden and will be joined by your regiment and from then on will go directly to Germany. Have I been rightly informed?"
"Yes, the journey will not be very long at all. I hope you will enjoy your time on-board," Anders said brightly.
"Perhaps," Jack replied and then moved away from Anders, although he did not feel as if he would enjoy anything onboard.
Jack stared out at the sea and watched the waves rippling. The soft moonlight reflected on the water and the stars shone brightly. He drew a long breath and sighed, Eleanor had loved the stars. She and Jack had spent hours every evening that they were together gazing through the Darcys large telescope, always wondering what the stars were made of. Looking at the planets that seemed so very small and far away, Eleanor had imagined 'out-loud' to him as she put it, telling him what she thought Jupiter and Mars were like. Tears blurred his vision as he remembered that he would never again star-gaze with her.
"Are you all right, Jack?" The voice of Anders Mattsson brought him out of his reverie.
"Fine, fine," Jack mumbled, not looking at him.
"The stars is pretty tonight and the moon is bright. I think Emma is looking at this same moon at this very moment." Anders said wistfully.
"Who is Emma?" Jack asked, having regained control over his emotions. Anders smiled.
"My...sweetheart, I think you say? We are engaged to be married as soon as this war is over and I am able to go home."
"You are very lucky," Jack paused, "to have a woman who loves you enough to wait for you. How long will this wretched war go on? For many more years, perhaps? Yes, you are a very lucky man indeed." They were silent for a few minutes.
"I think that maybe you have not been so lucky in matters of love," Anders said at last. Jack almost laughed.
"Very lucky indeed! I fell in love with a woman eleven years younger than myself. Very much in love and I thought that she loved me. She broke off the engagement after one week." Jack said bitterly.
"I'm sorry," Anders said, and then after a pause, "she is a foolish woman to throw away a man such as yourself."
"Oh no, not foolish," Jack cried in her defense, "not at all, very intelligent. That is what I don't understand - why would she even enter into an engagement without ever meaning to go through with it?"
"Perhaps something was misunderstood?"
"No, her father was very clear when he told me of her decision."
"Excuse, but did you say her father? I missed something - you told me she had broken off the engagement, not her father," Anders said, clearly puzzled.
"She did." Jack sighed. "It doesn't really matter. All I know is that the engagement is over and my heart and dreams are broken," Jack said, his voice filled with sorrow and shoulders slumped. Anders had the good sense not to ask any further questions, so, after watching the waves flow for a little while longer, he went to bed.
Part Three (continued)
Loneliness. It is a frightening thing - to be lonely, and Jack was. He had spent the entire day in his cabin. The eighth bell of the first dog watch had rung not long ago and by land reckoning it was around six p.m. Jack missed his brother Edward, who always listened to Jack and managed to see the bright side of a situation. Then he missed Fitz Darcy and his wise advice. Most of all, however, he missed Eleanor and the lovely dreams he had been making for them and their future life together. That was before she broke off the engagement, now he was still wallowing in misery.
Someone knocked on the door. Jack could hear that it was Anders. Anders Mattsson, the big, friendly Swede who was the luckiest man Jack knew. For a moment Jack considered not answering the door, but he did and opened the door to a friend.
Over the next few days, Jack told Anders everything about his relationship with Eleanor. Anders sympathized and tried to cheer him up and lessen the anger that Jack was feeling. He also told him stories of his homeland, of his sister, Ingrid, and her shiny red hair and flashing blue eyes. Of the death of his parents by fire, and his six-year-old brother who had not spoken a word since the terrible tragedy. Jack soon learned that life was not as easy for the Swede as he had first thought.
Anders, however, rarely spoke of his own troubles. He continued to amuse Jack and lift up his spirits, telling such tales of Sweden that Jack could hardly wait until he would get a glimpse of it.
Anders was there when Jack was lonely and depressed. Over the next few days on the ship a powerful friendship developed between the two men - one that would never be broken.
They arrived in Sweden at last. They only were there for a few short hours, but those hours were worth every minute. Jack did not leave the ship, but he did not really have to. Anders' sister came to visit them with his little brother Matt. Jack met Emma and saw that Anders had not over-exaggerated about the beauty of his family and fiancée. Finally, he met the Swedish regiment with which he would be working.
All of the men were six foot 3 inches or taller. Jack had always been considered tall in England, but next to these Swedes he felt rather small. Their hair color ranged between either light blonde or light brown, never dark; add their blue or gray eyes and you have a very good description of a Swede. Their light coloring contrasted greatly with Jack's dark brown hair and hazel eyes. The regiment definitely looked Swedish.
The men all seemed very friendly and Jack thought that he should enjoy spending time and talking with them until he learned that not one of them spoke comprehensible English. You may imagine Jack's disappointment.
Jack discovered that, although none of the other Swedes but Anders could speak understandable English, they were ready and willing to learn. Every time he was with them he spoke to them in English. They answered as best as they could and used Anders as translator as often as was necessary (which was quite often). However, Jack spent his nights alone, always thinking and wishing.
The days they spent on the ship together were happy ones. The Swedes were very pleasant fellows and Jack truly enjoyed their company. They grew fond of him as well, especially as Jack let them practice their English on him.
"Good evenink, Jack!" Eric Johnson would cheerfully say one morning.
"Good morning, Eric." Jack would correct.
"Good mornink," Eric grinned, pleased to have finally gotten it right.
When the ship neared Germany, Jack asked Anders if he had any idea where they would be going in Germany; if their regiment was to fight in any battle. Had Colonel Anderson told him anything? Anders only shook his head.
"Colonel Anderson has not been acting himself these days, he usually tells us immediately what we are to do. I have a strange feeling that he himself has not been told what we are to do - or perhaps if he knows is reluctant to tell." Anders glanced over at his Colonel talking quietly with the Captain. "It is not like him." He shook his head and watched with Jack as the distant shores of Germany came closer and closer.
Part Three (continued)
Germany. After weeks of traveling on a ship, Jack and the Swedish regiment had arrived in Stralsund, Germany. It was raining; pouring. It was unbelievably wet and dreary as the regiment trudged their way towards Berlin on a muddy road.
"So this is Germany? Well, I don't think much of it yet," Jack said grimly and Anders grinned as he pulled his booted foot out of the mud and continued walking.
"The roads are surprisingly bad, or so Peter Straut, our German guide, tells me," Anders glanced at the riding figure next to Colonel Andrews in the front of the line. "Why did you not ride the horse you were offered?"
"You know perfectly well that I would rather Eric ride it and heal his sprained ankle then have him walk and me ride while he makes his ankle worse. Besides, I much prefer your company and would feel guilty while riding as my comrades walked through this... this ..."
"Filth," Anders finished for him and Jack nodded.
"I actually enjoy the way you read my mind and know exactly what I'm going to say before I say it. Eleanor could do that. She -" but Jack stopped himself. He did not want to think of Eleanor.
"You like mud boots?" Little Lars said. Due to the fact that more than one of the Swedes in the regiment was named Lars or Eric, for example, each man had a nickname. This Lars was the smallest man of the Swedes and was thus christened: Little Lars. His English had improved greatly; before he had met Jack he couldn't say two words, now he was saying sentences.
"Do I like muddy boots? Of course - I love nothing better then wallowing in mud over six inches deep. It's my favorite pastime." Jack glanced at Little Lars, "You understand everything?" Lars paused for a moment before answering, as if he was translating what he had just heard in his head.
"Yah, I understand," Lars said, smiling happily and then turning his attention back to the roads. Jack sighed. It was a long way to Berlin yet and the rain seemed to be pouring down harder.
Progress was slow. Even after the rain had stopped, the condition of the roads was so horrible that it slowed everyone down. The regiment was only cheered up by the fact that they were walking as they saw many carriages stuck in the mud. It had been a long time since Jack had left England, almost a month.
As they drew close to Berlin, Jack thought wistfully of sleeping in a real bed in his own home. Only where was his home? Matlock estate was surely not what he could call home. It was the perfect example of a Lord's home. But where then? London? Pemberley? Yes, that was it, Pemberley, where he had spent much of his time as a boy and young adult playing with Darcy and Wickham, learning from Uncle Darcy what it meant to love and be loved - what a father is really like. That was where he had spent his happiest moments in life and where he had first met Eleanor.
Jack groaned, everything good or beautiful reminded him of her, every star, flower, stream or rainbow, he always remembered her. And he had wanted to build a home with her. Jack shook his head. He was supposed to be bitterly angry with her for breaking his heart; he should be trying to forget her and yet here he was, dreaming again. It was during moments like these that Jack wondered if what Mr. Swann had said was really true. He imagined that she really did love him and that all of this was a lie or a terrible nightmare.
Berlin was an enormous city, the capital of Prussia. It was just like another London. Jack thought it a magnificent city, although he only saw it from a distance. Colonel Andrews had ridden into town with Officer Hardy to receive orders on what they were to do. Jack had also been invited to go, of course, but the Colonel had seemed reluctant to bring him along and Jack preferred to stay with his friends.
"The Colonel has been very gloomy these days, wouldn't you saw, Anders?" Jack said.
"He is still acting very strangely. It puzzles me greatly. What is wrong?" Anders said more to himself. Jack could understand his distress as Anders was very good at understanding character, so it was hard for him when he could not figure out someone's behavior.
"It is the war going on. You can feel it in the atmosphere. Everything is depressing right now."
"I hate war."
"So do I, Anders, so do I." Jack said just as it started raining again.
Colonel Anderson returned late and in such depressed spirits that everyone was shocked. He spent the rest of the day and night in his tent alone, and yet did not sleep. In the morning he asked to speak with all of his soldiers. Anders translated for Jack.
"Fellow soldiers - brothers. We are sent to Leipzig." Jack searched his mind. Leipzig - had he heard it before? "We are sent by Royal Prince Bernadotte - the commander of the whole Swedish Army, into the midst of battle." Everyone had heard that name and knew it by heart. Colonel Anderson's shoulders sagged. Anders looked incredibly grave and Jack had a strange feeling that this was all a dream. Battle? This inexperienced regiment was going into a battle at Leipzig? Jack's thoughts were interrupted as everyone was breaking up and Colonel Anderson had returned to his tent.
"What is going on, Anders? I thought you weren't going to fight in any battles," Jack said.
"Perhaps that's why Anderson has been acting strangely, he knew what fate awaited us but did not know how to tell it."
A message arrived just then from Colonel Anderson. Jack was to meet him in his tent with Anders as translator. Together they entered the tent. Colonel Anderson gestured for them to sit down. He began speaking after they were all seated; Anders translated,
"I wish to speak with you on a very serious matter, Colonel Fitzwilliam. You came with us on this mission with the understanding that you were a witness, not a soldier in this regiment, therefore you are not obligated to fight with us as it is not your battle. And so I, Colonel John Anderson, ask if you wish to come with us to Leipzig - and fight."
Jack was silent for a few moments, "I will go with you," he said slowly, "and I will fight."
"This battle is going to be one of the worst in history. At this very moment thousands - thousands of men are traveling to Leipzig to fight. I give you warning, Colonel Fitzwilliam." Anders translated.
"I understand," Jack said.
"Then you are dismissed," Anderson said and they left the tent.