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Chapter 19

Posted on 2015-01-02

Saturday, January 30, 1813 - Royal Navy Dockyard, Portsmouth

The peculiar smell and sounds of the sea became sharper as the Darcy carriage swept through the gates of the Navy Dockyard and onto the dock. Screaming seagulls mingled with the sound of waves. slapping against the dock and the unique smell of seaweed. A stiff breeze was blowing as evidenced by the straining hawsers of anchored ships and whitecaps dancing on the surface of the Solent. A steady stream of lighters were still ferrying men out to their ships in a frantic race to take advantage of a rising tide and a favourable wind.

As Darcy alighted from his carriage, he could see the Matlock family some distance down the wharf. After helping Georgiana to step down, they walked rapidly towards them. The Colonel was standing in their midst and looked up as Darcy and Georgiana neared.

"I was beginning to worry you would not make it."

"We would definitely not miss saying our farewells, Richard!" Replied Darcy.

"Oh Richard" cried Georgiana hugging her cousin and trying to control her watery eyes, "you must come back."

"I certainly plan to do so, Georgie. I have to dance at your coming out, you know!"

A naval Lieutenant walked up to the Colonel, saluted and informed him that the skiff transporting him out to his ship was waiting for him to board. The Colonel said his final good-byes to his family and began to follow the Lieutenant. Darcy seized the opportunity to walk alongside and quickly murmured. "I thought I should tell you that I met Miss Elizabeth a couple of days ago. She has agreed to see me again but there are complications. This letter should explain it all. " and Darcy passed his cousin a letter. "Read it later when you have time. She also asked me to extend her wishes for your safe return."

The Colonel stopped, clapped Darcy on the shoulder saying, "excellent! That is good news. You have my best wishes."

They reached the waiting skiff and Fitzwilliam descended and settled himself. He and several other officers were rowed swiftly to the waiting ship. Darcy rejoined the Matlock family, receiving a questioning glance from Lady Eleanor which he carefully pretended not to notice. They all waited and watched as one ship after another weighed anchor and headed out of the Solent, only turning to depart for London when Richard's ship disappeared from view amongst a melee of sails.

The trip back to London was quiet, both Darcy and Georgiana thinking of Fitzwilliam's departure which neither really wanted to discuss. Finally Darcy looked over at his sister and considered whether this was a good time to discuss his courtship with Elizabeth. It was not truly a private setting but the noise of the wheels on the road surface should mask their conversation quite effectively, provided they did not speak too loudly. He leaned forward and looked at his sister, "Georgiana, I have some news for you. Do you remember my talking about Miss Elizabeth Bennet last summer?"

Georgiana looked up in some surprise, "I remember quite well, Brother. You never talked about another woman so. It would be difficult to forget."

"I met her again the other night. She was also a guest at the dinner. We spoke and she was much changed towards me. I was encouraged enough to ask to call on her the next day. There were some issues between us that I thought we had to resolve. She agreed to meet me. We talked for hours and I will be seeing her once again on Monday."

Georgiana literally bounced on her seat, "did you propose again, Brother?"

"No, she needs to know me better first." He paused, and gathering his courage, began again, "There is a major problem we face, Georgiana."

At her look of surprise, he said, "Yes, well.....it seems her youngest sister ran off with Wickham last summer, was taken by him to London and then deserted. Her family has not been able to recover her."

Georgiana's face paled, "Wickham?"

"Yes and to make matters worse, I paid him to leave the country last fall. He is now somewhere in the Americas. I did not know at the time that Miss Elizabeth's sister was involved."

"But will you be able to help them?"

I do not know. I will try." He looked at Georgiana. Obviously the implications of Miss Lydia's behaviour had not occurred to her. He would have to explain. "Georgiana, this is quite serious. Miss Lydia and Wickham lived together as man and wife but were never married. Now he has deserted her and her virtue, her reputation are lost. Her family in Hertfordshire are being shunned by their neighbours and Miss Elizabeth and her elder sister have come to London to escape the censure."

"I am not sure I fully understand what you are saying. How does this bear on us?"

"If I offer for Miss Bennet, or even publicly court her, many people might believe that the stigma is also attached to the Darcy name, to you and I. If I were to marry her, her family would become my family and we also would face censure."

"How can that be? Is not Miss Bennet a respectable young woman?"

"Indeed she is, but society will act as though her behaviour would be the same as her sister's."

"Do you think such, Brother?"

"No! Definitely not." Darcy was emphatic on this point."I have absolutely no doubts about Miss Elizabeth's respectability. None! Nevertheless, the problem remains. I cannot court her as long as her sister is missing and unwed. Darcy proceeded to describe to his sister all the concerns that he faced. He wasn't sure if she fully comprehended how this could affect her. The issue of her marriage prospects had to be addressed.

"Georgiana, there is one aspect of this that bears most heavily on you."

"My prospects for a good marriage?"

"Yes. It would be foolish of me to ignore the fact that many families will not want to attach themselves to us if I were to marry Miss Elizabeth. There could be very eligible suitors amongst them who would otherwise be eager to attach themselves to the granddaughter of an Earl. As well, we are more likely to draw the attention of the more mercenary suitors who think us desperate to marry you off and who are attracted only to your dowry."

"What is a good suitor, Brother?"

"As you probably have guessed, my opinion has changed quite a bit over the past months. Now I believe a good suitor to be one who is respectable, will treat you, and any children you have, with care and respect and will be able to provide you with a comfortable life such that your dowry is not an important consideration. I would hope for mutual esteem between you."

Georgiana sat quietly thinking for several minutes. Darcy could not tell which way her thoughts were tending. Finally, she answered, "I have only lately begun to consider such matters and I find my opinion does not differ greatly from yours. I cannot envision spending thirty or forty years married to a man I do esteem. I would rather wait or not marry at all if such is my only choice."

"Georgiana, I cannot undertake anything that would damage your opportunities for a good and happy marriage and the loss of all or some of our connections would greatly damage your opportunities."

"I understand, Brother." Replied Georgiana with a distinct shake of her head. " When can I meet Miss Elizabeth? You know how much I want a sister."

"I hope to introduce you to her in a few days. We may call on her at home. I know you will love her as much as I."

The remainder of the carriage ride was spent desultory conversation. Both were tired from the morning travel and napped as possible.

Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam collapsed onto his bunk weary from checking the condition of his troops. The fact that he had just spent a half hour with his head hanging over a railing and casting his chips into the sea had a lot to do with his fatigue. At least it was better than where his men were quartered. The smell down there would induce nausea even if one was not seasick.

He remembered Darcy's letter and retrieved from his greatcoat where he had stored it. Pouring himself a whiskey, he broke the seal and began to read,

Richard,

I was fortunate to meet Miss Elizabeth Bennet at a dinner party the other night. She and her elder sister have come to London to live with their aunt and uncle. The meeting was a shock to us both but I was able to talk with her briefly at the party. She was most amiable and pleasant. I asked for and received permission to call on her the next day. We were afforded some privacy to try and resolve those issues that separated us. I think we did so. However, a new problem has arisen. Miss Elizabeth's youngest sister, Lydia, eloped with Wickham last August. They obviously did not marry and I suspect Wickham deserted her when I paid him to go to the United States. Unless I can recover her, any attachment with Miss Elizabeth will exact a penalty. For myself, I am not concerned but I cannot form any attachment while her youngest sister is missing or while Georgiana is not married.

As you are also Georgiana's guardian, I deemed it essential that you be made aware of the particulars of the situation. For Georgiana only, am I concerned.

I will continue to call on Miss Elizabeth, but discretely, hoping to avoid public attention. In the meantime I will be searching quite assiduously for Miss Lydia. I must ask a special favour which is that I would have you keep your parents unaware of my interest and dealings with Miss Elizabeth at this time.

I will apprise you of any new developments should such occur.

F. Darcy

Fitzwilliam groaned, "Can nothing be simple between those two?" There was nothing he could do at the moment. He had more pressing problems, such as, did he have enough time to get to the railing again?

Chapter 20

Monday, February 1, 1813 - GracechuchGracechurch Street, London

Darcy had arrived shortly after dinner was completed and was requested by Mr. Gardiner to join him in his study almost immediately. He was confused as to the reason for the interview but could see that Mr. Gardiner did not appear unduly worried or concerned. After accepting a glass of port, he waited for his host to reveal the reason for their meeting. Finally Mr. Gardiner, with obvious reluctance, began,

"Mr. Darcy, you are I am sure wondering why I asked to speak with you tonight. To be very honest, Mrs. Gardiner and I are both aware of your interest in Elizabeth. From what we can determine based on your previous meetings, her interest may also be engaged."

At this Darcy sat upright with a pleased smile and exclaimed, "Really? I had thought so but was not certain."

"Oh yes and that is why we are concerned. For Elizabeth's sake, her aunt and I must know your intentions. In normal circumstances, I would let matters develop at their own speed. However the circumstances are far from normal and I suspect that you are not in a position to attach yourself to Elizabeth. You have said nothing of your intentions so far but now Mrs. Gardiner and I must know for Elizabeth's protection. "

Darcy sighed. He had expected this moment to arise but had delayed it in the hope that he might find Lydia first. "Mr. Gardiner, you are quite within your rights to demand to know my intentions in this case. I would do exactly the same under such circumstances. Let me assure you that my intentions are honourable. I hope to make Miss Elizabeth my wife. But I cannot offer for her until my sister is married. My duty to her as her brother and guardian precludes it. The impact on the Darcy reputation of marrying Miss Elizabeth right now, is only relevant to me insofar as it damages my sister's ability to make a suitable marriage. The loss of connections that most probably will occur could dissuade some eligible suitors for her hand; however, I am not prepared to wait indefinitely for my sister to marry. If she is not married by the end of the season next year, I will be proposing to Miss Elizabeth. I only hope that she has not accepted another offer in the interim. If my sister marries earlier, I will be making my offer sooner. Sir, you can be assured there will be an offer unless Miss Elizabeth decides against me beforehand. You can appreciate my reluctance to speak of this to Miss Elizabeth. I do not want her to feel obligated to me should she receive another offer."

Mr. Gardiner considered the young man sitting in front of him. He had grown to quite like him and thought him an excellent match for Elizabeth. He made a decision, "I would like to invite Elizabeth to join our discussion. She is a sensible girl and I think would understand your position quite well."

Darcy was not sure that he completely agreed with the idea of inviting Elizabeth to join the discussion but her uncle probably knew her much better than he did. He nodded his head in acquiescence and Mr. Gardiner left to get Elizabeth. Returning only seconds later, he bade her sit beside Darcy and seating himself once again, considered them both.

"Lizzy, I asked to speak to Mr. Darcy this evening to determine his intentions to you. Your aunt and I became concerned because it was quite obvious to us last Saturday evening that your affections had become engaged. Mr. Darcy has made it clear to me tonight that it is only his duty as his sister's brother and guardian prevent him from making an offer for you. "

Seeing Elizabeth about to burst into tears and leave the room, he quickly circled his desk and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Please child, let me finish."

Returning to his seat and, noting the handkerchief being handed to her by Darcy along with a murmured comment which caused her to glance at him quickly, he smiled and continued,

"Now before I was so rudely interrupted, Mr. Darcy also was quite firm that he would be making an offer following his sister's first season which will be next year regardless of whether she is married or not. "

At this Elizabeth turned to look at Darcy. Her mouth worked but only a squeak was uttered. Darcy looked at Mr. Gardiner and, smiling, said, "That is odd, I have never seen her bereft of speech before. Does this happen often?"

Not waiting for answer, he continued in a more serious vein. "Miss Elizabeth, I will not ask you for a commitment. It would not be fair to ask you to wait for over a year until I consider myself free to make an offer. But be assured of this. If you are unattached and have not sent me away, I will make that offer next June."

Mr. Gardiner looked at Elizabeth, "Do you want to say anything, Lizzy?" Her shake of the head he accepted and then suggested they join the others in the drawing room. As Elizabeth left the room she stopped and glanced up at Darcy with a somewhat confused expression, "You are very certain of this?" Her struggles to accept that he was willing to pursue her despite her circumstances was difficult to accept. His need to protect his sister she could well understand but for him to be prepared to put aside all other considerations and court her was not something her mind could readily accept right now.

"I am very certain, Miss Elizabeth! Now shall we join the others?"

"I admit I am having a great deal of trouble comprehending."

"Miss Elizabeth, perhaps we should join the others. If we can find a somewhat private spot, I will attempt to explain."

However, when they entered the room their attention was immediately sought by the others and no opportunity was created for them to converse privately for the rest of the evening. When it was time for Darcy to leave, Elizabeth saw him to the door and expressed her regret that they could not talk privately. Darcy simply shook his head and murmured, "We shall have other opportunities to do so. Be assured that you will see me most regularly and my chief fear is that you may grow quite tired of me."

" I think, sir, that I might enjoy trying to get tired of you."

Elizabeth could observe a small grin on his face as he bowed over her hand and took his leave.

Wednesday, February 3, 1813 - Darcy House, London

A discrete rap on his study door captured Darcy's attention. Hodgkins entered bearing the day's post and a very thick letter was handed to Darcy. Breaking the seal, he quickly determined it was from Lord _____ and contained the asked particulars of the homes for distressed women. "I did not realize there were so many. Obviously this problem is much greater than most of us realize." It was too late to visit any homes today. He would start tomorrow after noon. He would have to carry out the visits himself to preserve secrecy. Given the number of homes, he thought it could easily take a fortnight to visit them all.

His visit to Mrs. Young had not proven particularly productive. She had had little contact with Wickham after Ramsgate other than to hold his letters until such time as he retrieved them. Darcy had inquired as to Wickham's favourite brothels. Here Mrs. Younge had been more helpful and one of the places listed, Mrs. James, had been where Wickham left Lydia. Mrs. James asserted that Lydia had left her establishment the same day and she had heard or seen nothing of the girl since then. Darcy had no reason to doubt her words. The offer of £50 would have induced Mrs. James to release Miss Lydia if she were there at all.

Friday, February 5, 1813 - Gracechurch Street, London

Captain Amos Stovall arrived at Gracechurch Street with a purpose in mind. During his trip down to Portsmouth on Monday he had determined to ask Jane to marry him. He was sure of his affections and she had, it seemed to him, to have given him assurances of hers. He had been impatient to return to London and had forced himself to deal with the problems attending the repairs to his ship. Fortunately, work seemed to be proceeding apace and it was with a real eagerness that he had returned to London. Only the self-control and forethought that had enabled him to reach the rank of Captain, made him aware that the day was late by the time he had arrived and that he was in sad need of a bath and clean clothes.

He had sent a note to Mrs. Gardiner advising on his return and intention to visit that afternoon at three. He then headed to Bond Street to visit a jewellers shop to select an appropriate ring. Now, armed with intent and ring, he was ushered into the drawing room where Mrs. Gardiner and Jane and Elizabeth were receiving calls. Unfortunately for Captain Stovall, there were two other callers when he arrived. One, a young gentleman calling on Elizabeth and the other a very genteel looking woman about Mrs. Gardiners age who, from the conversation, appeared to be a familiar acquaintance.

Captain Stovall forced himself to be patient. It was with some amusement that he considered the young man who was being attentive to Elizabeth. From his conversation he appeared to a clerk in a local company and thought well of his prospects. Elizabeth was encouraging his conversation with quiet civility, evincing no particular interest in the gentleman such as would encourage his further interest. Stovall had been in her company sufficiently to gauge that she was restraining the exercise of her wit at the gentleman's expense. Finally, his half hour up, he was not encouraged to stay and departed. The lady caller departed shortly thereafter.

Stovall turned to Jane and requested a private interview. She consented and quietly Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner left the room, closing the door behind them. He rose and approached Jane who had remained sitting, a very noticeable blush spreading rapidly and her eyes looking at hands in her lap. He found himself extremely nervous, having to restrain his own hands from seeking hers. Finally he managed a few words through a throat that was suddenly dry and bending to one knee in front of her, spoke clearly but softly,

"Miss Bennet, I know I have known you but a month but in that time I have come to regard you with the greatest affection. Your kindness, your smile, your love for those around you cannot help but inspire in me a love that I had not believed possible. I had not thought to marry until this war had ended and I sought to retire. But it will not do! I cannot take the chance of losing you to another man. You must allow me to tell you how much I admire and love you and to ask that you become my wife."

Jane finally looked at his face. Such a dear face in such a man. Her heart felt overfull, she could barely utter the words, "Yes, I will most gladly marry you."

"Truly?"

She laughed, "Oh yes, most truly. I have never been happier nor has anyone touched my heart as you have done. So, YES!, YES!"

Stovall grasped her hands in his and standing, raised both to his lips. "Jane, you have made me the happiest of men." Reaching into the pocket of his jacket, he took a small box and opening removed a gold ring set with a sapphire and a small diamond on either side. He slid it on her ring finger and then releasing her hand, he framed her face with his hands and asked softly, "May I?"

"Oh yes, please."

For Jane, her first kiss was nothing like she expected. The soft pressure of his lips on hers was, she thought, rather nice. As the kiss continued, his lips moved gently against hers and she brought her hands up to rest her palms on his chest. She gave a small sigh of displeasure as he seemed to remove his lips from her and grasped his coat as if to prevent his leaving. He reclaimed her lips and deepened the kiss and suddenly she felt something warm and soft and wet brushing against her own lips. Unconsciously she moved her body closer and felt his hands leave her face and move to her back pulling her even closer and then move to her shoulders and felt his body and lips gradually withdrawing.

Sighing, she murmured "how very nice!" and, looking up at him, said, "I never thought a kiss could be so delightful. Why did you stop?"

"My dearest Jane, that is but a small portion of what awaits when we are married. Now, I think we have trespassed on your aunt's courtesy quite enough. We should acquaint her with our news although I doubt we will surprise her."

When they opened the door and stepped into the small parlour on the opposite side of the hall, the two occupants looked up. The joyful smile that Jane wore told the story and both Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner quickly stood and moved towards them. Elizabeth wrapped Jane in a huge hug saying, "Oh Jane, I am so happy for you." Elizabeth loosen her grip slightly and holding Jane at arm's length and looking at Captain Stovall, quipped, "and you have brought me the fine brother I always wished for."

Mrs. Gardiner hugged Jane and was generous in her congratulations to the couple, saying, "I think you will do very well together. I hope you will stay for dinner, Captain ?"

"I would be delighted."

After they returned to the drawing room, Mrs. Gardiner ordered tea and cakes. Turning to Jane and Stovall who were sitting together on the settee, she asked, "I realize that you have barely got used to the idea of being engaged but here are some practical issues that you both need to think about. You, Captain, will have to return to duty in several months. That does not leave a great deal of time for an extended engagement, a wedding and honeymoon and, I believe, a trip to visit the Captain's family. You both might want to consider a wedding date first."

Stovall was quick to answer, "I would prefer as short an engagement as possible." To which Jane nodded her agreement. "I think three weeks is long enough. I do not want to wait any longer to start our life together. It will be hard enough to have you return to duty and I do not wish to waste any time between now and then."

She thought a bit longer, "Three weeks would allow the banns to be read in Longbourn and provide us with time to prepare my wedding clothes in town. I see no need for us to depart for Longbourn until two or three days before the wedding. I know Mama will want to show Amos and I around to our neighbours but I am of no mind to give consequence to people who shunned me for months. Mama will invite who she likes to the ceremony and to the wedding breakfast." She paused and with a rueful smile, continued, "I know that is uncharitable and unkind of me but I cannot easily forget their behaviour towards us."

Stovall nodded, "what you have suggested is no burden to me; however, I do believe I must visit your father tomorrow to obtain his blessing. Do you wish to come with me Jane?"

"No, I cannot claim that I do."

The conversation continued with the newly engaged couple discussing plans for the wedding, travel, the location of their honeymoon and Stovall's plans to visit. Darcy, who had been invited to dinner, arrived and, being apprised of the happy news, quickly extended his best wishes to them both. Listening quietly to their discussion, he was inspired to invite them to stay at Pemberley on their way to York.

"After all, I must travel there in March to talk to my steward about the spring planting. You could easily stay for a fortnight or more should you wish to do so. There are several suites which afford complete privacy and you could come and go as you wish. In fact, " looking at Elizabeth, "I could also take Georgiana and yourself. Mrs. Annesley can chaperone you and Georgiana, Miss Elizabeth."

Turning to Stovall, he asked, "Am I correct that you plan to visit your family in York afterwards?"

"Indeed, those were my thoughts. I want to introduce Jane to my mother and sister. I thought to stay a month and return to London to take up my duties again. I thought to look around Yorkshire for a small estate although I don't intend to purchase until the war is over."

Elizabeth was very surprised at Darcy's offer. She could see her surprise mirrored on the faces of Jane and her aunt although her aunt was much quicker to recover. Elizabeth could not help but exclaim, "That is a most generous offer, Mr. Darcy." And Jane was quick to extend her appreciation also.

Elizabeth could see Darcy's struggle to hide his embarrassment. She suspected that guilt over his interference between Jane and Bingley had prompted the offer. Nevertheless, it was most generous and to have it extended to herself even more so although there she suspected the gentleman of a more personal motivation such as to have her company for a month.

She observed Darcy begin to say something and then hesitate. He began again cautiously, for reasons which quickly became apparent.

"I had planned to travel to York to visit a good friend of mine and his family. This friend has lately taken up residence in York and invited me over Christmas to come and stay for a fortnight or so. I had planned to do so in June but April would be equally acceptable to me. While there, I could assist you in your search if you would wish for such help. I was hesitant to mention this to you since the gentleman I plan to visit is known to both Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth - Mr. Bingley."

Jane's response was quite calm, "I see no reason why we should not meet Mr. Bingley. He is an acquaintance and, if indeed he has moved to York, we cannot help but meet should we move to Yorkshire. Amos, do you agree?"

"Most heartily and I would glad accept your help in looking at various estates, Mr. Darcy."

Conversation continued around the proposed trips to Pemberley and Yorkshire with Elizabeth, in particular, most interested in the scenic sites that could be found. Dinner did not stifle the conversation as Mrs. Gardiner and Darcy began to talk of their favourite places in Derbyshire.

After dinner, Stovall sought a private audience with Mr. Gardiner who readily gave his approval to the engagement after satisfying himself as to the Captain's financial position. He had been authorized by Mr. Bennet to deal with the marriage settlement and, after discussing the Captain's wishes, agreed to have his solicitor draw up the papers for their consideration. Stovall also sought out Darcy for a private conversation to request that Darcy acts as his groomsman. Darcy was pleased to accept having formed a liking for the Captain.

Elizabeth had been prevailed upon to play several pieces that she had been working on but ceased upon Mr. Gardiner and Stovall entering the room. Darcy took the opportunity to approach and ask, "Miss Elizabeth, did my invitation to Pemberley make you uncomfortable? I admit to a great delight in thought of walking and riding the grounds with you to show the beauties of Pemberley."

"I am not uncomfortable at all, sir. My only concern is the message that might be sent but, if Jane is there, it can be thought that I am attending her. So, I propose to take my fill of such delights as Pemberley has to offer."

Saturday, February 6, 1813 - Longbourn, Hertfordshire

Stovall was very pleased that Mr. Gardiner had lent him his carriage for the trip Longbourn. A hired carriage would have served as well but would have been nowhere as comfortable. The four hour journey was tedious but finally over as it drew up in the courtyard fronting Longbourn which, to his relatively unschooled eye, looked to of a comfortable size. The grounds were well kept and neat and the overall appearance was pleasing to the eye.

Presenting his card at the door, he was immediately shown to Mr. Bennet's study. The house seemed unnaturally quiet but he thought perhaps most of its residents were out. He had sent an express post to Mr. Bennet yesterday advising him of his intention to call so he was certain that he, at least, was at home. Entering the study, he was welcomed by Mr. Bennet.

"Captain Stovall, I am pleased to finally make your acquaintance."

"Mr. Bennet, while I also regret the delay, I must confess that if Miss Bennet had not moved to London, I would never have had the pleasure of meeting her. "

"Well sir, now that you are here perhaps you could reveal the purpose of this meeting." Mr. Bennet knew quite well why Stovall was here in his study, but was not prepared to make his task easier.

Stovall had been advised by Mr. Gardiner as to Mr. Bennet's inclination to tease and make sport of others. He was not of a mind to be the subject of such teasing from a man who had so egregiously failed in his responsibilities to his family. He had considered his words carefully during the journey to Longbourn.

"It is quite simple, Mr. Bennet. Your daughter, Miss Bennet, has accepted my offer of marriage. I have come to ask your blessing on the marriage. I realize that Miss Bennet is of age and your consent is not required but I am sure she would wish for that as well."

Mr. Bennet was rather taken aback. He had not expected such a firm statement from a suitor. "If I appear hesitant, sir, you must understand my position. I know very little about you."

"I was under the impression that Mr. Gardiner had kept you well informed of my attentions to your daughter. I have already discussed the marriage settlements with Mr. Gardiner and they will be completed in the next week. I believe Mr. Gardiner has the authority to sign them on your behalf. What information do you wish me to supply, Mr. Bennet? I am quite willing to comply."

Mr. Bennet was not happy at the rather brusque manner of Jane's betrothed "I wonder, sir, at your even bothering to visit."

"Mr. Bennet, your daughter wishes for your blessing. I am here simply because I wished to meet her father and the rest of her family."

"I see. Well, if you can stay for luncheon, I will be happy to introduce you to Mrs. Bennet and Jane's other sisters. Have you set a date for the wedding?"

"Indeed we have. Three weeks from today at your church. I may as well advise you now as to our plans. Miss Bennet plans to remain in town until the Wednesday prior to the wedding ceremony at which time she and her sister and the Gardiners will travel to Longbourn. I will join them on Thursday when I return from Portsmouth."

Mr. Bennet's surprise was obvious. "So little time before the ceremony! Whatever was Jane thinking?"

"I believe, sir, that she realized her mother would want to display her to all her neighbours. Miss Bennet was not of a mind to give consequence or recognition to people who have spurned her and her family for months. She is desirous of visiting her Aunt Phillips and a Lady Lucas. If anyone else wishes to call at Longbourn, she is willing to meet them. I suspect, from your daughter's comments, that her mother will not be best pleased with these arrangements."

"Captain Stovall, you have just made a classic understatement but I will leave it to Mrs. Bennet to prove it so. I will satisfy myself with arranging for the bans to be read. There is one issue of concern. You are a naval officer I comprehend and will be returning to duty this summer. What provision have you made for Jane once you have left?"

"Jane and I have not discussed this as yet. She may prefer to remain with her aunt and uncle, I could set up a separate establishment for her in London or elsewhere or she could join my mother in York. We will be discussing this over the next few months. Regardless of where she chooses to live, I will ensure her comfort, sir."

The two men then spent a relatively quiet hour together and, after Stovall indicated his desire to eventually acquire a small estate, Mr. Bennet undertook to show Stovall around the property explaining many of the features and purposes of the buildings and farms. The return of Mrs. Bennet and her two daughters from shopping in Meryton coincided shortly thereafter with luncheon being ready. Mr. Bennet introduced the Captain without explaining his purpose in visiting since he, Mr. Bennet, wished to enjoy his lunch before the tumult erupted.

As a consequence, the meal was rather quiet as Mrs. Bennet had grown apathetic to the behaviour of her neighbours and no longer made an effort to engage them publicly. When Mr. Bennet stood at the conclusion of the meal and cleared his throat preparatory to announcing Jane's engagement, he drew little attention from any of the ladies at the table. Clearing his throat once more,, "Mrs. Bennet, Mary, Kitty, I have an important announcement. My daughter, Jane, has accepted an offer of marriage from Captain Stovall who has travelled down from London this morning to let us know. They will be married from Longbourn three weeks hence. I am sure you have many other questions for the Captain and I will leave him to answer them." With a smirk at Stovall, Mr. Bennet retired to his study.

Mrs. Bennet was not to be consoled. Only three weeks to the marriage ceremony and no grand procession of calls on the neighbours. It was not to be born. Captain Stovall now fully appreciated Mr. Bennet's strategic retreat and viewed it with reluctant admiration. By dint of sheer repetition, he was able to finally convince Mrs. Bennet that the arrangements were fixed; however, he was unable to prevent her from planning a dinner party that would encompass most of the leading families and a wedding breakfast. He suspected Jane had anticipated such endeavours on the part of her mother. How many of the neighbours would accept the invitations was an interesting question which he did not raise with Jane's mother. Under the circumstances, he hoped that enough families did attend to restore the Bennet family to some degree of social acceptability. If the price was two meals in the company of strangers, he could well bear it.

Mrs. Bennet's plans to come to London to prepare Jane's wedding clothes was a matter he left to Jane and Mrs. Gardiner. It was with no little relief that he was able to take his leave of them all and return to London. That Yorkshire was well removed from Longbourn was a source of no little comfort to him.

Chapter 21

Monday, February 8, 1813 - Gracechurch Street. London

Elizabeth settled into the overstuffed armchair, tucked her feet under her and wrapped her robe more closely around herself. Her thoughts were increasingly coalescing around one central realization. Fitzwilliam Darcy was indisputably in love with her and she had suddenly realized that she very much reciprocated those feelings. She could not identify the moment or the setting when she knew her feelings. She was there almost before she knew she had begun. That he was, in fact, the best man for her to marry was something she was only beginning to accept tonight.

It had not been an exceptional evening, rather they had spent it in quiet conversation. She and Mr. Darcy had been permitted to sequester themselves somewhat in a corner of the drawing room and had spent over two hours just talking.

She could not remember how the conversation had begun but it had not been long before she had inquired about Pemberley. When he began to describe its features, his natural reserve seems to fade away and his face and voice took on an animation she had never seen him display. Questions about its scenic attractions had led to a discussion of his favourite paths and trails most of which were most accessible on horseback. His enquiry as to ether she rode, elicited the answer "yes, but poorly." which was subsequently found to be caused by having to learn on farm horses rather than a riding horse of a size appropriate for her. While Darcy did not outright suggest that he would teach her to ride a proper horse, Elizabeth was sure she could hear that thought about to be expressed but nobly suppressed. When queried about trails and paths that could be walked, Darcy was quick to mention the gardens and the paths surrounding the house and leading into the hills and was most eager to show them to her.

But it was when he began to talk of the tenants and their families, the crops they planted or sheep flocks tended that she was able to discern his pride, respect, love and care for Pemberley. It was clear he recognized his responsibilities and from the manner in which he discharged them, Elizabeth was sure that he would discharge his responsibilities as a husband and father with just as much love, respect and care. It was at this point, she realized, "I am falling in love with this man." The expression on her face must have changed because Darcy had stopped speaking and was looking at her with a questioning look. She shook her head as if to say "it is nothing." and immediately began to speak of Longbourn, drawing some parallels with her activities there. Darcy accepted her reluctance to explain and was quick to acknowledge her understanding of the problems of managing an estate. This led to a discussion of those aspects with which Elizabeth had little experience such as crop rotation, arranging contracts to sell Pemberley's production, management of the various components of the estate such as the grounds, stables, and household. She only then began to understand how much responsibility he had assumed at the age of two and twenty. She could, however, remember his words, "I do not think I could have survived those first two years after my father's death, if he had not hired very good people at key positions. It took me that long to learn the tasks I faced and to gain the confidence of those who reported to me." She realized this was a very pointed statement on his part because she had just finished asking about the duties that his wife would expect to face. He had concluded those remarks with another very deliberate statement, "Mrs. Reynolds is one of those people. I have basically turned over management of the house to her. But she very much wants a Mistress to take on the role and has been hinting rather frequently for a year or so about my need to find a wife. I am quite sure she is looking forward to having a Mistress." Elizabeth knew he was attempting to allay any fears she might have about becoming his wife but oddly enough she felt confident that she could learn those duties.

Her reserve with him was falling and her trust, rising. He had, with some hesitancy, asked about life at Longbourn once news of Lydia's behaviour was made public. She had little reluctance in relating the actions of her neighbours but did not dwell overmuch on the forces which had driven Jane and herself to move to London to live with her aunt and uncle. Her initial reluctance to discuss her family was somewhat eased by Darcy's quiet sympathy and understanding. She admitted to dissatisfaction with her father's abdication of responsibility for his family while acknowledging that she owed much to his kindness and consideration for her. She acknowledges to him the validity of his criticisms of her family but also the pain that criticism had caused because she loved them despite their flaws. His acceptance of them she knew to be critical since she would always want to maintain her ties to them.

Her thoughts continued to wander and she could not help but smile when they centred on the dinner party to which they both had been invited the previous Saturday. Darcy had been a fairly regular visitor to Gracechurch Street but this was the first occasion, since their meeting at the Johnsons, which was not simply a family event. She knew he had decided to attend because of her presence and could not help be a little flattered. When they arrived, he was already there and in conversation with another guest. He recognized her arrival immediately and she felt his gaze almost before she saw him. She now knew it contained nothing but admiration and it warmed her rather nicely she thought to herself. If he was somewhat circumspect in his attentions, it did not take him overly long to greet her party. His reserve was very much in place but it no longer hid from her his pleasure and happiness in her company.

This evening they were able to sit together at the dinner table and it was probably only the size of the party, some ten couples, which failed to make their increasing absorption in each other obvious to one and all. Nonetheless Mrs. Johnson, sitting almost across from Elizabeth was observing them with a small smile. Leaning towards Mrs. Gardiner who was sitting next to her, she murmured, "I believe Mr. Darcy is quite interested in your niece."

Mrs. Gardiner knew she had to be very cautious in her response, "They became acquainted more than a year ago when they met in Hertfordshire. They are but friends, I believe."

"It would be an excellent match for her."

"Undoubtedly, but I do not believe Mr. Darcy is looking to take a wife."

Mrs. Johnson looked somewhat disbelieving but did not press the subject further and Mrs. Gardiner thought she had better warn Elizabeth to be more circumspect in her attentions to Mr. Darcy. When the ladies did move to the drawing room following dinner, she was able to caution her niece; however, it proved to be a case where excellent advice was adhered to in a manner that was most wanting. Their hosts had decided upon some dancing and had hired musicians for that purpose. Darcy was not slow to request the first and last dances from Elizabeth who was pleased to comply. He then secured Jane, Mrs. Gardiner and the wife of their host for subsequent dances.

As he lined up across from Elizabeth, he thought back to their dance at Netherfield. Tonight, he vowed, would be different. At their first coming together, he leaned slightly toward her saying,

"Shall we have conversation, Miss Elizabeth?"

"Do you plan to talk about the size of the room or the number of couples, sir?"

"Only under duress, I assure you. "

"What say you about books, then?"

"I thought you could not think about books at a ball."

"True, true. ..... Well perhaps we can be silent and enjoy the dance, sir."

"I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours, Miss Bennet."

And so it proved, to the pleasure of both. They were, each of them, excellent dancers in terms of grace and timing and could appreciate the skill of their partner. The touches of their hands when they came together tended to linger a little longer than necessary and their smiles, small though they were, could be detected by a dedicated observer. Their enjoyment in each other did little to stifle Mrs. Johnson's suspicions but, upon mentioning those suspicions to her husband, was admonished to not give further voice to them. She was advised that Mr. Darcy set great value to his privacy and his marriage prospects was an area to which he was particularly sensitive. This proved no hardship to her since she was not a gossip by nature. In this case, she was quite satisfied to observe and wait.

For Elizabeth, if the first dance was pleasurable, the second was an exquisite torture. She was acutely aware of the male with whom she was dancing. His size was impressive, he was indubitably handsome and he moved with an assurance that she had rarely seen. His touch was firm but there he left no doubt that the pressure was intentional. Not a word was uttered between them from start to finish but they moved in perfect harmony each with a focus solely on their partner. Even when separated, that focus remained fixed. It was only when Elizabeth thought about dancing the waltz with Darcy that her attention lapsed. The thought discomposed her to the point she missed a step causing Darcy to look at her with a raised eyebrow. A grimace and a shake if her head was all she would acknowledge. Fortunately, they were both sufficiently skilled such that her lapse was unnoticed. When the dance ended and Darcy was returning her to her aunt and uncle, he leaned down and whispered, "What caused you to misstep?" Her reply of, "I thought of us waltzing." caused a deep chuckle from Darcy, which she found rather intriguing and disturbing as her complexion took on a rosier hue.

Her aunt and uncle were watching them as they approached. During the last dance, Mr. Gardiner had murmured to his wife, "I think there is no longer much doubt of the feelings of our niece. I hope there is not too much heartache ahead but I fear the worst." Mrs. Gardiner only shook her head, "I warned Lizzy to be more circumspect. Obviously she is unaware of how open her countenance is to the experienced observer. Already Mrs. Johnson has made her suspicions clear to me. They will only be made more solid by now."

"Shall I talk to Mr. Darcy, do you think?"

"I think you may have to. And soon."

After Darcy and Elizabeth joined the Gardiners and Jane and Stovall, they made preparations to leave. Calling for their carriages and taking leave of their hosts, they collected their outerwear and waited for the carriages. Mr. Gardiner took the opportunity to ask Darcy when he planned to call again.

Darcy replied, "If Miss Elizabeth is not otherwise engaged, I plan to call Tuesday evening next."

Mr. Gardiner looked over at Elizabeth who gave a slight nod and responded, "Tuesday will be fine. Perhaps you could dine with us. I do wish to speak with you in private that evening?"

Darcy was puzzled and could see no particular need for a private meeting but was not prepared to take issue with it, answering, "Most assuredly. I will attend you when I arrive. "

With the arrival of their respective carriages, Darcy and the Gardiners took their final leave of their hosts.

Tuesday, February 9, 1813

Darcy had arrived shortly before dinner and was shown into Mr. Gardiner's study almost immediately. He was still ignorant as to the reason for the interview but could see that Mr. Gardiner did not appear unduly worried or concerned. After accepting a glass of port, he waited for his host to reveal the reason for their meeting. To his surprise Elizabeth entered and sat in the other chair fronting Mr. Gardiner's desk. Finally Mr. Gardiner, with obvious reluctance, began,

"Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy, you are both, I am sure, wondering why I asked to speak with you tonight. Mrs. Gardiner and I are obviously aware of your interest in Elizabeth. From what we can determine based on Saturday evening, our niece is definitely not disinterested in you."

Darcy found it hard to control his expression of obvious pleasure in these words and the blush colouring Elizabeth's face and satisfied himself with a restrained, "really?"

"Oh yes and that is why Mrs. Gardiner and I are concerned. It was becoming increasingly obvious to us and others that the affections of both of you have been engaged, to the point that Mrs. Johnson commented on it to my wife." Mr. Gardiner considered the young man sitting in front of him. He had grown to quite like him and thought him an excellent match for Elizabeth.

Mr. Gardiner nodded his head in some satisfaction but knew he had to admonish the two young people in front of him. "This is all well and good but you both must learn to regulate your behaviour in front of others else your affections for each other will be the subject of gossip and that, most assuredly, will not serve your purposes at all. Mr. Darcy, you are a well known public figure and your attentions to any eligible young woman will most likely be noted in the gossip sections of the daily papers. You must be more circumspect for Lizzy's sake as well as your own. Am I understood?"

Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledged the truth of Mr. Gardiner's warning and agreed to be more circumspect, a promise Mr. Gardiner did not expect to survive their next public encounter. He sighed and excused them from his study.

Posted on 2015-01-05

Friday, February 12, 1813 - Darcy House, London

Darcy's expectations regarding the difficulties he would face in recovering Miss Lydia were proven to be very accurate. Since he could not assume that Lydia had given her real name at any shelter, after confirming with the Director of the establishment that they had no record of a Lydia Bennet or a Lydia Wickham, he then had to meet every resident in the shelter. His business responsibilities did not disappear and decisions there were required. Consequently, he conducted such business in the mornings and only when that was complete did he consider himself free to search for Lydia. His list included some fifteen 'homes' which sheltered unwed mothers, former prostitutes and other young women of similar misfortune. It was taking him about a day to search each home. His evenings were kept free for normal social activities, visiting Elizabeth and Georgiana. He wished to maintain an appearance of regular, unexceptional behaviour so as to avoid any undue notice from family or friends. It was not easy since he wanted nothing more than to visit Elizabeth every day.

When he had begun his search, Darcy had sent a maid to request Mrs. Hodgkins, his housekeeper, to come to his study. When she appeared, he asked her to close the door and then, after ensuring she realized the need for strict secrecy, revealed that he was going to try and recover a young girl who had been debauched by Wickham. He needed a room prepared on the third floor, quite apart from the family rooms. Mrs. Hodgkins had been in service with the Darcy family for over thirty years and was a trusted employee. Her reliability was unquestioned.

Today, after nearly a fortnight of searching, he was at the St. Francis Home for Distressed Women which was located on the edge of Spitalfields. It was a respectable looking building, considering the area. Darcy approached the building and asked to see the Director to whom he was quickly taken. The Director, after being apprised of his mission, checked his record journal and searching for several minutes was able to state that a Lydia Bennet had indeed been taken in by their shelter and was still a resident. He sent for Lydia and while they waited, retrieved such information as they had on her. "Miss Bennet arrived here on November 5 of the past year. She was quite ill at the time and we think had been with child but lost it. She has since recovered. She has said little of her background, and would not divulge the names of her parents and definitely did not want them to be contacted."

A knock on the door announced Lydia's arrival. She was ushered into the room and requested to sit. Her surprise at seeing Darcy was obvious but her manner lacked the insolence that characterized her previous behaviour. There was, in fact, a touch of fear, or reluctance, as well as shame in her greeting, "Mr. Darcy, what are you doing here?"

"I have been searching for you. Your family is quite worried."

"You have not told them I am here, have you?"

The alarm in her voice was obvious and Darcy immediately tried to calm her, "No, indeed. I am the only one who knows where you are." He paused and looking at her as calmly as he could manage, repeated himself, "They are very concerned about you. Will you not let them help you?"

"I cannot! I cannot go home!"

Darcy thought for a moment and said, "I understand. Would you allow the Gardiners to help? Your two eldest sisters are living with them now. I know they would want to see you. Your parents need not know."

"I don't know. What would become of me?"

"I think that is something you and the Gardiners will have to discuss. Could I suggest a simple solution until such time as you and the Gardiners can decide what is best? I would like you to stay at Darcy House in secret. If you go to the Gardiners, it will be much more difficult to hide your presence than at my home. Under the circumstances, we need to prevent anyone else from knowing where you are. You do understand the need for such secrecy, I hope."

"Oh yes, I have listened to the stories the other girls tell and my situation has been made very clear to me. I do not know what you plan, Mr. Darcy but I seem to have few choices left to me. George Wickham used me very ill indeed and I have to believe, used you so as well. He was lying about you, was he not?"

"Yes Miss Lydia, he was." Darcy was rather surprised that this girl had reached this conclusion. He had not thought her to be that sensible.

"Why are you doing this? I am nothing to you and you don't even like us."

"If I had warned people about Wickham when I was in Hertfordshire, it is possible that he would have been banned from most places and you might not have been fooled by him."

"I am not sure that I would have listened or believed you. He was most persuasive and I wanted to be convinced."

Turning to the Director, he requested that someone help Lydia gather her few possessions and take her to the carriage. Once Lydia had left to go to her room, Darcy turned to the Director and extending his hand, shook that of the Director and vowed to inform Lord ______ of his assistance and his appreciation of such.

Once they returned to Darcy House, the carriage was driven around to the servants' entrance and Lydia hustled inside. Once he had turned her over to the ministrations of Mrs. Hodgkins, Darcy immediately wrote a note to his doctor requesting his presence as soon as possible. The footman who would deliver the note was told to wait for a response. Darcy had now to inform the Gardiners.

The Gardiners were just finishing dinner when Darcy's messenger arrived at the door and delivered Darcy's message to Mr. Gardiner as he sat at the table. Tonight the only guest was Captain Stovall. Mr. Darcy had been expected. He had sent his regrets since urgent business would prevent his attendance. Mr. Gardiner looked at the outside and said with some surprise, "It is from Mr. Darcy!" He read it quickly and his explosive "Good Lord!" startled everyone. He read it again and then looked at everyone and before speaking, quickly stifled what he was going to say. Instead he looked at his wife and asked her to request their governess to see the children to the nursery. He then asked everyone to join him in his study.

As Captain Stovall made to leave the room, he was detained by Mr. Gardiner who looked at him saying, "Captain, this is a family matter involving my missing niece. You are very soon to be a part of this family and are welcome to join us, should you wish to do so."

The Captain simply said, "If I can be of service, I will."

Mr. Gardiner nodded and followed him into the room and then, looking at his wife, two nieces and the Captain, he answered their inquiring looks by saying, "I will read you Mr. Darcy's note,"

Mr. Gardiner,

I must request your immediate presence at Darcy House. I suggest that Mrs. Gardiner accompany you along with your two nieces but that I will leave to your discretion. Simply put, I have recovered your youngest niece. She is currently here at my home. I am awaiting a visit from my doctor to examine her but to my eyes she seems healthy, although much restrained in behaviour. I have sent my carriage to bring you as quickly as possible. I have attempted to bring her here without any attention. I suggest the reason for your visit here be kept secret as well.

F. Darcy

Mr. Gardiner gave everyone a few minutes to comprehend the message and then, looking sternly, said, "The reason for coming into my study is to ensure that no word of what is happening is heard by a servant. Unless anyone thinks otherwise, I suggest we ready ourselves to leave immediately." His suggestion finding nothing but eager compliance, the carriage departed within a quarter hour for Darcy House.

Elizabeth could hardly comprehend the speed with which Darcy had recovered Lydia. "Uncle, I am all amazed at Mr. Darcy's success. You and my father searched for weeks and weeks without success and yet he has found them in a fortnight. I do not understand how this was possible."

"No more do I, Lizzy. Mr. Darcy must have resources that we did not possess but this truly amazes me."

The paucity of information precluded any significant discussion about Lydia other than the facts that she was alive, healthy and somewhat restrained in manner. Finally, the carriage drew up in front of Darcy House and everyone was ushered inside, divested of their outerwear and shown directly to Darcy's study. He stood when they entered and went directly to Elizabeth. Taking her hand, and motioning to the others to find a seat, he led her to sit beside him on the sofa and then looking at them all, he began, "First, I have ordered tea and coffee. It should be here in a few minutes. I have also arranged for my doctor to visit Lydia. He arrived a few minutes ago and is with her now. He will join us when his examination is complete. Once the tea and coffee is delivered, I will explain how I discovered Miss Lydia."

A maid delivered the tea and coffee within minutes and departed, closing the door behind her. Once he saw that everyone had been served, Darcy began, "I have a confession of my own which I must make first. I was not in enough control of myself when I first learned of Miss Lydia's loss to risk talking about it. You see, around the end of September last, I received a letter from George Wickham ....."

When Darcy finished, he looked down his hands and quietly said, "You have no idea how many times over the past days I have reproached myself for my actions. I thought only of my family and protecting Georgiana. I thought I was honouring my father's wishes for the last time in this regard. I knew I was only changing where George could exercise his propensities but I thought that society there would deal with him more harshly than ours. I had no idea that he had become so callous. In the past, his victims were left in the care of their family. I did not expect such behaviour."

"Mr. Darcy, I think you take too much upon yourself," responded Mr. Gardiner.

"I agree!" echoed Elizabeth, "you could not have known about Lydia."

Darcy just shook his head, "Nevertheless, I should have made it impossible for any young woman to be left in his company."

"Mr. Darcy, none of us had any idea of an attachment between Lydia and Mr. Wickham. You could not; we did not anticipate such an event."

Darcy then explained his search for Lydia, touching on Mrs. Younge, Mrs. James, and the Chairman of the charitable organization and finally finding Lydia at the St. Francis home. When he was done, he simply said, "I was incredibly lucky. Miss Lydia could easily have been in a hospital or dead. There are many young girls who never make it to one of these shelters and according to the Director at St. Francis, she was quite ill when she arrived. She is safe here and I think I can protect her secrecy here more so than at Gracechurch Street but that is something for you to decide. Now that she is found, the question you face is what shall be done with her. I must add she seems adamant that her father and mother not be told of her whereabouts. Mr. Gardiner?"

"I started thinking about this problem when I entered the carriage. The usual approach is for the girl to be sent away to a distant relative in Ireland or Scotland or somewhere equally remote. I have no relations in those countries. I have never heard Thomas speak of any such either. I would very much agree that my sisters not be made aware of any of the particulars else it will be all over Meryton within hours.

Mrs. Gardiner shook her head but said nothing. Both Jane and Elizabeth remained silent although Darcy could see Elizabeth wanted to say something and looked at her with a raised eyebrow. She shook her head in response but gave him a faint smile. Darcy looked at Mr. Gardiner and with some caution began to speak, "I have a proposal but it obviously requires your approval and Lydia's compliance. As soon as I began to search for her, I realized that, if I were fortunate enough to discover her, the problem of where she would go must arise. I had a possible solution in mind which could retrieve the reputation of the Bennet family and, I admit, serve my purposes as well. The seeds of the idea came from a letter I received from the steward of my Scottish estate. One of the crops my tenant farmers there grow well is sons. Land is scarce and unattached farms rare indeed. Every year it seems I am approached by second and third sons enquiring about the possibility of a tenant farm on one of my estates. I almost always have to inform the majority of them that I have nothing available. There are many more young men in this situation than I have farms available. Many of these young men wind up here in London but some travel to the new United States or our Canadian colonies or India."

He paused, took a sip of coffee and then continued, "My thought was to offer one such young man enough money to buy land to build a farm in the Canadian colonies if he married Lydia. I have the names of several possible young men and could write my steward to fix upon one and send him to London. He and Lydia would sail secretly from here, or perhaps from Glasgow or elsewhere. We could attempt to save Lydia's reputation by having them write to us saying she and Wickham sailed last September but failed to post the letter until they reached the Americas."

He looked at Mr. Gardiner who was sitting leaning forward, elbows on his knees and looking discouraged as he asked, "How much would a decent farm cost over there?"

"I am sure I do not know but I was thinking of gifting them with £5,000 for the purpose. I have talked with several people in the past who are considering investing in Upper Canada which apparently has much good farm land. My investigations suggest buying enough land for a large farm of about four miles in circumference would cost about £3,000 and there would be more than enough funds left to build a decent house and hire labour. It would be a rough life for some years but it could be a good one eventually."

"But such a sum!" burst out Elizabeth. Even Jane seemed stunned by the amount.

"I would have willingly expended as much or more to force Wickham to marry Lydia last fall. At least in this case I can be sure that funds will not be spent on gambling or debauchery."

"Lydia is the responsibility of my family, Mr. Darcy. I will provide the funds." insisted Mr. Gardiner.

Darcy shook his head saying, "Mine is the responsibility. If it were not for my mistaken pride, no decent family would have allowed their daughters in his presence. No! Mine is the fault and so must the remedy be."

"I think you take too much upon yourself once again, Mr. Darcy," answered Elizabeth.

The argument continued in this manner until all recognized that Darcy would not be denied. Fortunately, the doctor timed his entrance to bring that discussion to a close. He was able to assure them that Lydia was healthy, not with child and free of any disease to the great relief of them all. Accepting the thanks of them all and assuring them that he would respect their desire for secrecy, he excused himself and left. Mrs. Gardiner and her nieces were then taken by Darcy to talk with Lydia. As they walked upstairs, Mrs. Gardiner dropped back to whisper to Elizabeth, "I have heard that he is very proud but it seems to me that his real fault is obstinacy." Elizabeth just shook her head and smiled.

While the ladies met with Lydia, the three gentlemen further discussed Darcy's plan. While there was general agreement that it was workable, it did depend on Lydia's compliance and that was not assured.

"I thought to have the couple travel to York , the capital of Upper Canada, under the name of Wickham. Then Wickham would "die" and Lydia would marry our young farmer and begin a life there. It would not be anything like what she is used to but they could build a good life there with hard work." Darcy considered the problem further, "We would need a letter, written by Lydia before she leaves England but posted from Portsmouth or London that would address the elopement, where they are going, everything."

"There is one major advantage to the Canadian colonies as a location," offered Captain Stovall. "I was situated at the Halifax station for a year. To reach York one must travel up the St. Lawrence River to Montreal. The river is closed to all ships from December to May most years. A letter sent from York in November might not reach England until June next. So we could have a second letter to be sent when they reach York which tells of Wickham's demise and Lydia's remarriage.

"Who shall talk to Miss Lydia?" asked Captain Stovall looking at Mr. Gardiner.

"I suggest Madeline and I and Mr. Darcy. She knows us and, I hope, will trust us to enough to accept the realities of her position."

"May I suggest we do that tomorrow morning when we are more rested? I am sure everyone is quite tired by now," suggested Darcy. This met with general approval and Darcy provided the other gentlemen with a glass of port while they awaited the ladies' return. Conversation was desultory until the ladies rejoined them. Mrs. Gardiner related the little information that Lydia would impart, saying, "Lydia was not very informative. Wickham apparently left her at a brothel telling her he was going to get a carriage to take them to the living you, Mr. Darcy, were now giving him. He never returned. I suppose that is when he took passage. He had convinced her that they would marry but now she believes he only took her along because she had £50 and never intended marriage at all. She is quite bitter about him. The brothel keeper gave her the choice to stay and work or she could leave. Lydia chose to leave and tried to come to us. She had no money - Wickham took it all - did not know where she was and got lost. She would not tell us what happened then but only that she eventually found the home where Mr. Darcy discovered her."

Darcy interjected, "She did not arrive at the home until November! There is at least a month she has not accounted for."

"I know. She refused to discuss what happened during that period."

"She seems very different," offered Jane. "Cautious, watchful and missing that exuberance that seemed such a part of her. I do not know her at all."

"Not surprising at all really," muttered Mr. Gardiner. "Not surprising at all."

Elizabeth looked at Darcy with a quizzical look, "Mr. Darcy, I have one further question. You were, by your own admission, looking for my sister for a fortnight before you found her. Yet, at no time did you tell any of us that you were searching. Why, sir? Why did you not tell us?"

"I simply did not want to raise hopes or expectations that I could not fulfill. I had no great expectations of success and did not want to raise yours only to dash them later."

With that it was agreed that they all needed some rest and the Gardiners decided to return the next morning to discuss their plans for Lydia with her. As they readied themselves to leave, Elizabeth stepped back towards Darcy and placing a hand lightly on his arm, said a soft, "Thank you for finding my sister." Darcy took her hand in his and gently kissed her knuckles, "Do not thank me for something I did willingly." He paused and continued, "I know not when we shall meet tomorrow. Perhaps you could come with your aunt and uncle and I could introduce you to Georgiana. I know she wishes to meet you very much."

"I would like that. Does she know about Lydia?"

"She knows only that she eloped, not that she is presently here at Darcy House."

They walked to the front door and entered the carriage. It was a very quiet ride back to Gracechurch Street. All of them were consumed with their own thoughts.

Chapter 23

Saturday, February 13, 1813 - Darcy House, London

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner accompanied by Elizabeth arrived at Darcy House shortly after luncheon. They noticed the knocker was not up indicating Mr. Darcy was not receiving callers. Nevertheless, the door was opened immediately and they were ushered into Darcy's study after handing their outerwear to footmen. Darcy was waiting for them and settled them all comfortably in front of the fireplace.

Looking at the Gardiners, Darcy asked, "Have you thought further on my suggested plan, Mr. Gardiner?"

"Yes, indeed I have, sir. I think it is workable and could produce the results we wish for; however, I admit to being concerned that our niece would prefer to settle nearer her family. Ireland perhaps? Yet if she does so, I cannot see us hiding how long it took to effect the marriage."

"That was my concern also. As well, it would be much more difficult or hazardous to talk of a marriage to Wickham. Others may be aware he sailed for the Americas. Are there any inducements we can offer Miss Lydia to encourage her to accept?"

Elizabeth could restrain herself no further, "I suppose we could offer a new dress and some lace and ribbons." Elizabeth's anger at the thought of having to bribe her sister to act in a manner which resurrected her reputation as well as that of her sisters was fierce. That she would receive a dowry of £5,000 when her sisters had only £1,000, only fuelled her anger further.

Mrs. Gardiner looked at Elizabeth and shook her head, "Lizzy, please. We do not know if she has been changed by her ordeal."

"I am sorry Aunt. If it has changed her, I hope it is for the better. Her ordeal has not been so beneficial for her sisters."

Darcy looked at Elizabeth and asked, "Miss Elizabeth, may it introduce you to my sister?"

Elizabeth put her anger and thoughts of Lydia aside and answered with a smile, "I would be delighted, sir."

"Come then, she is in the music room." Saying this, Darcy rose and led Elizabeth in the direction of the music room. As they walked, Elizabeth took the opportunity to look at the furnishings and furniture she could see. There was nothing ornate in the decorations or furniture and yet the impression of true elegance prevailed. An elegance based on quality and simplicity that did not exclude functionality. Elizabeth instinctively knew she could feel comfortable here. Darcy led her up the stairs and passed a set of doors to the right. "That is the drawing room and next to it, and connected, is the music room." He opened the next set of doors to reveal a young woman seated at a small table looking through several sheets of music. An older woman was sitting on a settee in the centre of the room. The young woman turned and rose quickly at the sound of the doors opening. Darcy led Elizabeth towards her and made the introductions.

"Georgiana, may I introduce you to Miss Elizabeth Bennet? Miss Bennet, my sister Miss Georgiana Darcy." Turning to the older woman, he continued, "Miss Bennet, allow me to introduce Mrs. Annesley, Georgiana's companion. Mrs. Annesley, be known to Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

The ladies made the ritual curtsies and the young ladies moved to sit together on the large settee behind the pianoforte. Elizabeth had some reservations about this meeting. She could not credit Wickham's assessment of Georgiana as being "exceedingly proud " and yet she knew that Mr. Darcy was reserved and, at one time, gave the appearance of great pride. She had not talked with Miss Darcy for very long before she realized the young woman was reserved but it was the result of shyness. Elizabeth began to try and make her comfortable such that conversation would flow more naturally.

Darcy watched quietly and with great satisfaction, then made his excuses to withdraw and rejoin the Gardiners. Both Elizabeth and Georgiana smiled in dismissal and returned to their conversation.

Darcy sought out Mrs. Hodgkins and requested her to bring Lydia to his study and then he rejoined the Gardiners. Once Lydia was shown into the room, he directed Mrs. Hodgkins that he was not to be disturbed. Lydia was sitting in a chair between her aunt and uncle. Darcy pointed to a sideboard where tea and coffee was available.

Mr. Gardiner looked at Darcy and suggested that he begin. Darcy nodded his acceptance and, looking at Lydia, realized that while her behaviour appeared more reasonable and controlled than he had ever seen previously, he could not assume that the wild, unruly part of her with which he was most familiar, had been banished. A slow cautious approach was necessary.

"Miss Lydia, what do you expect to happen to you?"

She looked at him in surprise, and then at her aunt and uncle, before replying, "I am sure I don't know. The girls in St. Francis talk about being sent out to the country, to some place where no one knows you."

"How do you feel about that? Would you prefer to return home?"

"I cannot go home! I do not want to go home! I could not face anyone. I think almost anything might be better than that."

"We would like to retrieve your reputation and that of your sisters and have, I think, discovered a way to do so. It will involve a very great change for you and, quite possibly, a great opportunity as well."

Lydia looked at Darcy and smiled ruefully, "Mr. Darcy, after the past months I am inured to change. As long as it does not involve George Wickham, I will not gainsay you."

"How do you feel about marriage? A husband?"

"I don't know. My...experiences have not led me to think well of most men. Yet I also know that if left on my own, my future is not hopeful. It will be difficult to put my trust in a man again."

"I think I comprehend your fears Miss Lydia. Unfortunately perhaps our plan must encompass marriage to a man. Simply put, we propose to arrange a marriage between you and a young man from my estate in Scotland. He will be a decent, hard working young man from a good farming family. Your basic circumstances will be made known to him before you meet and his acceptance secured. You both will travel to our Canadian colonies and wed there. However, we will pretend that you and George Wickham were married in Gretna Green and traveled to the colonies where George died over the winter. The young man I will select will be given sufficient funds to acquire land to build a large farm in the colonies and you both will make your lives there. We will require you to write two letters. One will be dated from last October announcing your marriage and arrival in the colonies. It will be mailed from Portsmouth or London when you depart. A second letter will be sent when you arrive in the colonies telling of the demise of George and your marriage to the young man selected. People will attribute the delay to the distance between the colonies and here."

Darcy paused, "I know that we tend to consider the colonies to be savage places but the reality is somewhat different. From reports that I have received, much of the society is not dissimilar to our country life, although a little rougher perhaps. Some of the amenities are lacking but they have dances, parties and social events. Your life will be quite different but, as I said, the young man you marry will be decent, hard working and will treat you well. He will have to know somewhat of your past - we cannot hide the fact that you lived with Wickham without benefit of marriage. It should not signify to him. What else you impart to him is a matter for you to determine."

Lydia had listened to Darcy but he could not tell where her thoughts were tending. When she spoke, it was very quietly, "Why not Ireland or Scotland instead of the colonies? It is so very far."

"The main reason is that George Wickham left England for our colonies at the end of September last and we don't know who else may have knowledge of that happening. We can pretend a Gretna Green marriage and his subsequent death in the colonies. But it only signifies if you are there also."

Darcy paused, "I am prepared to provide sufficient funds for you and your husband to establish yourself well in the colonies. We do need to act quickly."

"May I meet and talk with this young man?" asked Lydia.

"Yes, but it will have to be on the basis of your acceptance of our plan."

Mrs. Gardiner's plea was heartfelt, "Lydia, I would urge you to accept Mr. Darcy's offer. You will not be as well looked after should you decline it, since we will have to send you away and will be able to provide much less in the way of support. You may well have to accept work as a servant or in one the mills that are being formed. Marriage might be possible, but I doubt you will be able to find a man as good as the one Mr. Darcy is offering. Your life in the colonies may require much from you, but it could provide you with a much better life; and it will ensure better lives for your sisters who have suffered from your actions through no fault of their own."

Lydia looked reluctant. "Why should I not have the funds that Mr. Darcy is offering?"

Darcy just shook his head, "That offer is being made to arrange your marriage and the restoration of the Bennet family reputation. To be very honest, giving you the money without a marriage that appears respectable will not help anyone but you. That is not an option."

Mrs. Gardiner could see his words had caused Lydia some distress but felt no remorse in his speaking so plainly. Lydia's bowed head suggested she recognized the truth being imparted. Lydia had a number of other questions which were answered as much as possible and Mr. Gardiner found himself agreeing to help her acquire a decent wardrobe since she had nothing but the clothes she wore. Darcy was able to provide some information about the colonies and did advise the purchase of warm clothing since winters there tended to be slightly harsher than in Hertfordshire. Eventually, Lydia consented to the plan, and all were relieved that the Bennet family reputation could be repaired.

In the music room, Georgiana and Elizabeth were finding that conversation was not as difficult as expected. Each was desirous of having the good opinion of the other and so a mutual appreciation seemed a foregone conclusion. Elizabeth, from comments by Caroline Bingley and Lady Catherine DeBourgh, knew that Georgiana was very talented on the pianoforte. Seeing the table with sheet music, Elizabeth queried Georgiana, "I noticed when your brother introduced us that you were looking at some sheet music. Are these new pieces?"

"Yes they are. I bought them about a fortnight past and I am struggling with a few pieces. I admit to having difficulties with the Beethoven piano sonatas and this piece by Haydn is only now starting to sound correct. I have real problems mastering the fingering."

"Could you show me? I admit that I have avoided such difficult works in the past."

The two young women sat at the pianoforte and Georgiana began the Haydn piece. As she played, Elizabeth was impressed at the concentration she displayed and, after she had completed the piece, remarked, "That was excellently done. I have rarely seen technical skill and feeling brought together so very well."

Georgiana blushed deeply. "My brother says you play very well."

Elizabeth smiled, "Miss Darcy, he exaggerates my abilities undoubtedly for some nefarious purpose of his own."

"Oh no! My brother never lies, except I sometimes think he is too kind to me."

"The perfect older brother then. You have no idea how much I envy you. I do not have a brother, only four sisters. I should very much like to have had a brother."

"And I would have liked a sister."

Elizabeth laughed, "I admit it is nice sometimes. I am very close to my eldest sister, Jane. We have few secrets between us."

Georgiana looked at Elizabeth, began to speak and then blushed and returned to playing once more. Elizabeth recognized the signs of someone wishing to bring up a topic that might prove upsetting. She rather thought she could guess the general topic, and decided to encourage an exchange of confidences. This young woman could well become her sister in time. If they were going to establish any kind of relationship, it should probably start now. "Miss Darcy, you were about to say or ask something but thought better of it. If you were concerned that you might offend, do not be so. I am not easily offended and I seriously doubt that you could do so."

Georgiana's embarrassment was obvious. "Miss Bennet, I ...."

Elizabeth laughed and interrupted "I think if we are going to exchange confidences, we should be less formal. Please, call me Elizabeth or Lizzy. Miss Bennet is my older sister, Jane."

"Miss...Elizabeth, please call me Georgiana"

"Very well Georgiana, you were going to ask me something?"

"I know....my brother told me....you rejected his proposal of marriage a year ago. Yet you are here now and seem to be comfortable with my brother. I know I have not seen him this content for a long time. I don't understand."

"I am not sure how much your brother has told you and some, I cannot share. I can tell you that our relationship began with some ill behaviour by both your brother and myself which we both now heartily regret. I allowed myself to believe untruths about your brother that increased my dislike and your brother made a mistake that I deeply resented. When he made his offer, his behaviour was such that only a woman of a mercenary bent could have accepted it. My anger ... well....suffice it to say I abused your brother most abominably. Since then, we both have tried to correct our mistakes and attitudes. For myself, I now consider your brother one of the best men I know."

"Will you marry him?"

Elizabeth was taken aback by the blunt question."What happened to the rather shy young girl I was just talking with?" Her laughter took the offence from her words, but Georgiana coloured regardless and immediately tried to apologize."I am sorry. That was impertinent of me. Please ignore it."

"Georgiana, I suspect your question tends from a concern for your brother. How could that offend me? I cannot answer because he has not asked me and I do not know when or even if he will be able to do so. I believe your brother has told you of the situation of my family. All I can say is that I esteem him highly, although I must insist that you not let him know my feelings."

Elizabeth could see that Georgiana wanted to explore the topic further but it was not one of which she, Elizabeth, could provide the particulars. A change of topic was necessary and, since Pemberley was a favourite subject for her brother, perhaps his sister was of a like mind.

"Georgiana, I have talked to your brother about Pemberley and was wondering what and where your favourite places are."

This proved to be a wise choice and they spent the remainder of their time together that day talking about walking trails, places to visit on horseback and sleigh rides in winter. Some gentle questioning led Georgiana to talk about her memories of her father and the few that she had of her mother. They parted with plans to have Georgiana come with her brother the next time he was to visit Elizabeth.

Chapter 24

Monday, February 22, 1813 - Darcy House, London

Lydia had been installed in Darcy House for over a week and was becoming increasingly restive with the confinement. Darcy could not hope to hide her presence from Georgiana and had, reluctantly, informed her that Lydia was being held there in secret. The particulars of their plans had not been vouchsafed to Georgiana; however, the need for secrecy had been strongly impressed upon her. Lydia's only outing had been an afternoon with Mrs. Gardiner to a modiste to acquire her new wardrobe. None of the staff at Darcy House knew Lydia's name and most supposed her to be a Darcy connection. Darcy did nothing to disabuse anyone of that supposition.

Hodgkins knocked on the door of Darcy's study and, upon being told to enter, stepped into the room and said, "The young gentleman you are expecting is here, sir." He then ushered a young man of about three and twenty into the study. Darcy rose from behind his desk and greeted him with a short bow, "you must be James Simpson?" and directed him to the chair fronting his desk. "Tea or coffee?"

"Coffee, please and yes, my name is James Simpson."

Darcy considered the young man carefully. He was stockily built, about average height, not at all ill-favoured - in fact, he would probably be considered good looking by most women - and his hands showed evidence of hard work. His gaze was quite direct and, if he was discomposed by Darcy's scrutiny, he hid it fairly well. He spoke with a distinct Scottish accent but it was not unpleasant. According to Higgs, his steward for his Scottish estate, James Simpson had a good reputation in that area, no known predilections for drink or women and was reputedly a good worker.

"James, how much has Higgs told you about my offer to you?"

"He basically asked me if I were willing to marry a lass that had been seduced and left unmarried. In return, I would get sufficient funds to establish a large farm in the colonies - Canada. My answer was that I would be willing, if the lass were."

"There are a few more details we have to make clear to you. First, you and the young lady will travel to the colonies as soon as possible, but under assumed names. You will marry in York in the Upper Canada colony when you reach there. The young lady will be assumed to be a widow by the name of Lydia Wickham, her husband, George Wickham, having died during the previous winter. The funds mentioned will be released, to you, following the marriage. The young lady will write to her parents explaining the marriage, and the events leading up to it. You will be portrayed as a young man of some substance who needed a wife and met and fell in love with Mrs. Wickham."

Darcy thought for a minute, "I am sure you have some questions."

Simpson considered what he had been told for a few minutes before responding,"Farming is not an easy life. How much does the young lady know about it?"

"Virtually nothing, as far as I know," Darcy paused, "she is a gentleman's daughter and is, or was, rather spoiled. I don't know how much that has changed. I do suspect that she will struggle at first."

"Ah well, that is as may be. I must talk to the lass first. If I am to marry her, she must be my wife in all particulars."

"That reminds me, what do your parents know and think of all of this?"

"They are not too happy with my choice of a wife but recognize that I could not get a better opportunity to establish myself. She is a gentleman's daughter, after all. They will support me."

"Are they accepting of the need for secrecy?"

"Yes. They will simply say I am going to the colonies as your agent and will announce the marriage locally, only when I write them."

Darcy considered the young man. There was something that puzzled him and he very much wanted an answer. "Simpson, you puzzle me. You are a farmer's son but your words and manner of expression sound like that of an educated man."

Simpson laughed."I must credit my mother. She was a governess for an English family for ten years before she met and married my father. She was most particular about our education and schooling. She taught us, as much as possible, and saw that we attended school."

"Ah, that explains much. I am a little surprised that a young man with your attributes is not looking to make a future here in London, instead of which you are heading to the colonies."

"I have no great liking for cities. The air is foul, there too many people, it is noisy. I cannot think of much to recommend them. Besides, I like farming and I think my chances of prospering are better in the colonies with your funds to support me, than here in London Town with only my wits."

"Perhaps you are correct. I suspect that opportunities will exist almost anywhere for men with some education. Now, before I have the young lady brought down, there is something you must know. How familiar are you with the situation between England and the Americans?"

"Not very familiar at all."

"You have to know then that war has broken out and that American forces are attacking our Canadian colonies. The area into which you are venturing is close to the border with the Americans and could, even now, contain fighting. I do not know more than that at the moment. You will have to be cautious but, at the same time, there may be opportunities for a young man with funds."

"I see, I think."

Darcy could understand Simpson's concern. "I think it should be safe enough. I understand that additional troops are being sent to bolster our forces there. Now, shall I send for the young lady?"

"Please"

Darcy left the room and Simpson could hear murmurings from the hall outside and Darcy returned. "She shall be along shortly. Let us move to the library, and await her there." Saying this, he led Simpson the short distance to that room, stopping on the way to instruct a maid to have tea and coffee brought there. "Please, make yourself comfortable."

Simpson was awed by the volume of books contained in the library."You are truly blessed, sir. I love to read and my mother would want to take up residence here. It was always a happy day for her when she could get a new book." He wandered around the room, running his hand over the backs of the books as he considered them. He was interrupted by the sound of the door opening, and a young woman being ushered in.

Darcy, who had been following Simpson's wandering about with a small smile, also turned towards the door and immediately moved to Lydia. Taking her hand, he brought her to face Simpson. "Miss Bennet, may I introduce Mr. James Simpson. Mr. Simpson, Miss Lydia Bennet."

Simpson's bow and Lydia's curtsy were all that was proper. "I believe that you both need to discuss your possible life together. I will return to my study and leave you to do so. There will be a footman stationed outside the door, Mr. Simpson. When you are done, please let him know, and he will bring you both to my study. Is this acceptable to you both?"

Receiving their acknowledgement, Darcy returned to his study and awaited events. Some half hour later, he heard a knock on the door and Simpson and Lydia were shown in by a footman. He considered them both, as he bade them sit in the chairs fronting his desk. Lydia looked a little unhappy, but not unduly so. "Am I to understand that you both have agreed to the proposal?"

Simpson looked at Lydia, before answering. "Yes, I believe so. Miss Lydia is not too happy about the prospect of being a farmer's wife but I have assured her that the funds we have will most likely allow us to hire someone to help in the house while she learns what must be done."

"Excellent! Simpson, how soon can you be ready to leave? Miss Bennet has acquired all her clothing and is ready to leave now. Is this not true, Miss Bennet?"

After Lydia mumbled her agreement, Darcy continued, "There are two letters that Miss Bennet must now write. We have drafted them for her to copy." Turning to Lydia, he handed her several sheets of paper. "Here are the letters we have drafted. We need you to copy them in your own hand. You may write here at my desk."

While Lydia undertook to write the two letters, Darcy and Simpson moved to the chairs by the fireplace. "So, when shall you be ready to leave, Simpson?"

"I came fully prepared, sir. All my belongings are with me in my trunk. I suppose I could leave tomorrow."

"No need to be quite that precipitous. I have tentatively booked passage on a ship departing several days hence. I was not quite sure when you would arrive but I can now confirm those arrangements. You have some few days if you need to supplement your clothing, although I would recommend waiting until you arrive in York to do so. You could visit a bookstore or other shops perhaps. I will provide you with an advance of £200 to cover such costs as may arise during your trip."

Conversation continued in this fashion as Darcy outlined the arrangements he had made with respect to the funds, letters and secrecy. "One thing must be made perfectly clear to you both. No hint of these arrangements must ever arise in any communication with Miss Bennet's family. The story we have constructed must become the reality. Your respectability and that of Miss Bennet's family depends upon it. You may, however, write to me in fullest confidence, should the need arise."

Lydia then approached them, handing over the transcribed letters which Darcy scanned quickly. "I will seal this and have you address them. This letter," and he handed one to Simpson, "you will post from York when you arrive. The other I will keep and post after you sail. Now, I will have someone show you to your room, Mr. Simpson. If you wish to borrow a book from the library, please feel free to do so. You may do likewise, Miss Bennet."

A footman was summoned and led the young couple to their respective rooms, as Darcy moved to put the finishing touches to his efforts. A note was written, to be delivered to the captain of the ship, confirming the passage arrangements. He would visit the Gardiner residence this evening to advise them of the progress in the arrangements. He was looking forward to seeing Elizabeth since he had been circumspect in his attendance for much of the past week. The presence of Mrs. Bennet, in town to help Jane buy her wedding clothes, had absorbed a lot of Elizabeth's time and, as well, Darcy did not want to make himself too obvious such that Mrs. Bennet's match-making instincts would focus on him. At the moment, she seemed to accept him as associated with Captain Stovall, and had made only one or two passing references to the perfidy of his 'friend' Mr. Bingley. She was back at Longbourn now, and he could enjoy Elizabeth's company once more.

Chapter 25

Friday, February 26, 1813 - Longbourn, Hertfordshire

The drawing room at Longbourn was suffering a surfeit of people tonight and the surplus had overflowed into the music room and was threatening the small parlour. Elizabeth had managed to create a small oasis of calm in one corner of the drawing room with Darcy and the Gardiners in company. She had been watching Jane and Stovall who had commandeered a small settee which did not allow for a third person and thus ensured that they would not be separated. Watching Jane's countenance and manners, Elizabeth could describe it as, at best, a cool civility. She was not greeting anyone with particular pleasure. Turning to her aunt, Elizabeth noted, "I never quite realized how wounded Jane was by the treatment we received from our neighbours. I expected it but Jane has such a sweetness of temper that she could not envisage treating anyone so poorly and hence was, I believe, severely wounded. I don't think she has forgotten or quite forgiven them."

Mrs. Gardiner looked at Jane and nodded her head. "I think you are right. Fortunately, she has never been a very demonstrative person and it is quite possible that most of the guests do not notice a difference."

Elizabeth agreed and then, looking at Darcy, who appeared lost in thought, smiled and teased, "Mr. Darcy, you are very quiet, sir. Even a reticent person such as yourself should be counted on for more than two words in a half hour."

Darcy visibly recalled his attention to his company, "My apologies. As you have observed Miss Elizabeth, my attention was elsewhere. I was contemplating the activities that took much of my morning today."

Given the press of people, none of them wished to mention the particulars of those activities and Elizabeth was looking forward to spending time with her aunt later tonight to get a first-hand account. She would rather have talked to Darcy about it but could not anticipate having any occasion to speak with him privately. As she watched the press of people around Jane, she noticed her father leading a couple and a young woman towards them. The gentleman was vaguely familiar to her.

Mr. Bennet arrived and looked at his daughter, "I believe all the sense and sensibility is gathered in this one small corner." He then proceeded to introduce Mr. and Mrs. Thompson and their daughter Miss Janet Thompson to the others, noting that they had taken the lease on the Netherfield property.

Elizabeth acknowledged the Thompsons with a minimal civility, mindful that this was the first time that her family had met the Thompsons since they came to Netherfield. Her polite inquiries as to how they were enjoying the neighbourhood elicited equally polite responses. That the Thompsons were slightly uncomfortable was obvious and that neither Mr. Bennet nor Elizabeth were inclined to alleviate their discomfort was obvious to Mr. Gardiner. He engaged them in conversation about Netherfield and was assisted by Darcy, who was familiar with the Netherfield estate from his time there with Bingley. Mrs. Gardiner endeavoured to engage Mrs. Thompson on her family, in which effort she was eventually assisted by Elizabeth who determined the couple to be both sensible and comfortable in manner. Mrs. Thompson was more than willing to talk about her two sons, their wives and children. Miss Thompson was very quiet and did not attempt to join the conversation and Elizabeth could not discern whether she was reserved, or shy, or disdainful of the company.

Looking at Mrs. Thompson, Elizabeth smiled pleasantly stating, "I am glad to see Netherfield settled by a family. For too long it has been empty. I realize that you are only leasing the property but it would be good for the neighbourhood to have a family settled there with some permanence."

Mr. Thompson happened to overhear her words and responded with some pleasure, "I am pleased to hear you say as much, Miss Elizabeth. We do plan to purchase the property. My youngest son has taken a great interest in the property and looks to manage it for me. He and his family prefer the country life and the situation here is very much to his liking."

Miss Thompson looked at Elizabeth and quietly asked, "Miss Elizabeth, will we be able to have the pleasure of your company when the wedding is over?" Her manner was quite pleasant and Elizabeth was inclined to believe her reserved rather than otherwise and attempted to be as civil as was possible.

"I am sorry but I will be travelling to Derbyshire with my sister and her husband in company with Mr. Darcy and his sister. I cannot say when I will return but, when I do, I expect to be residing with my aunt and uncle in London."

"Perhaps then, we might call on you and your aunt there?"

"We would be delighted to receive you." Elizabeth considered the young woman in front of her, "Miss Thompson, I assume you will be returning to London shortly to partake of the Season. Are you looking forward to it?"

A slight moue of distaste crossed Miss Thompson's face as she answered, "This will be my second season and I expect as much pleasure from it as I had last year, which in truth was very little."

Elizabeth's obvious surprise caused Miss Thompson to smile briefly. "The curse of a substantial dowry for a tradesman's daughter is the prevalence of mercenary motives in those men willing to enter a courtship. I encountered only pop-in-jays or the mercenary. It is really most discouraging and I expect my patience will not survive the whole season."

"You are fortunate that your parents do not appear to feel compelled to see you married."

Mrs. Thompson had been quietly listening to this conversation and thought to interject. "Mr. Thompson and I wish that our daughter be settled happily and see no reason for her to rush into an attachment."

Miss Thompson smiled at her mother, "Indeed, they have left this decision in my hands. My father frequently says he cares not if I ever marry." They all enjoyed a quiet laugh at this.

It was settled that the Thompsons would call on the Gardiners when Elizabeth returned and they took their leave shortly thereafter. Mrs. Gardiner, who was feeling fatigued, decided that she needed to rest and left for her room. Elizabeth accompanied her, ostensibly to help her aunt but in reality to be free to discuss the day's events. Once in Mrs. Gardiner's room, she wasted no time in asking for a full accounting of the morning's activities.

"Well Lizzy, it was really very tedious. Mr. Darcy arrived very early at our house with Lydia and Mr. Simpson. Their trunks had been sent aboard the ship the night before. It was not long before we arrived at the docks. Mr. Darcy gave Mr. Simpson a couple of letters, one of which is to be posted from York when they arrive. The other I gather contained the introduction to the bank in York to access the funds Mr. Darcy has provided. I must say Lydia appeared reconciled to the trip. I kept expecting the old unrestrained, headstrong Lydia to show herself but she did not. She was not as lively as in the past and that could be a good thing indeed. She and Mr. Simpson may do well together. He was most respectful but quite firm in dealing with her and I saw no evidence of displeasure from either. In any event, they boarded and the ship sailed with nothing untoward happening. As we began to return, Mr. Darcy entered the post office to have Lydia's first letter delivered. I would expect it to arrive here Monday next. Your uncle and I plan to remain until Tuesday next in order to be present when it arrives. I suspect we may also call on the Thompsons to develop that acquaintance, if possible. It could be useful in terms of your uncle's business. I will not be slow to apprise you of events here."

"The letter will occasion great pleasure here I am sure. I just hope that it will be sufficient to satisfy our neighbours and restore our respectability. It is a threadbare strategy to be sure."

"Yes it is, but then all such marriages are meant only to lend a façade of respectability to that which is most reprehensible. It is no better or worse than other such endeavours."

"Not to change the topic too much but I was rather surprised at Miss Thompson's wish to get better acquainted."

"As was I. The young lady is about Mary's age I believe. I understand she has a very generous dowry of £40,000. She appears to be a very amiable young lady although perhaps somewhat reserved. She is undeniably quite handsome. If she wishes to further your acquaintance, I would certainly suggest you do so. It can do no harm to be on congenial terms with your family's nearest neighbour."

"We did not converse long enough for me to even begin sketching her character but the little I observed did suggest she might be someone I would like to know better. Her reaction to the season and potential suitors was quite interesting. I am glad for her sake that her parents are not pressuring her to make a match. With her dowry, of course, she can be selective. A large dowry offsets the supposed inferiority of her position in society."

At this point Mr. Gardiner knocked on the door and pointedly suggested to Elizabeth that his wife needed her rest and that Jane was apparently awaiting her sister in their bedroom. After Elizabeth left the room, Mrs. Gardiner removed her robe, revealing a very enticing silk nightgown that left her shoulders quite bare and sliding under the bed sheets, raised an eyebrow at her husband and asked, "Are you planning to rejoinyour brother downstairs?"

"No indeed. I have much more pleasurable thoughts and activities in mind. I will be with you very, very shortly. Do not go to sleep!" With a delighted grin, he made a brief visit to his dressing room before rejoining his wife in bed. Their subsequent activities provided much pleasure to both since they were both firm believers that true proficiency requires much practice.

Elizabeth and Jane spent their last night together as unmarried sisters and Elizabeth, more than Jane, realized that they would never again be quite as close. Jane's loyalties would henceforth be to her husband and children. They talked into the night of memories of the past and hopes for the future. It was nearly dawn before they fell asleep and yet neither would have the night be otherwise.

Chapter 26

Posted on 2015-01-08

Saturday, February 27, 1813 - On Route to Pemberley

It was growing dark as the caravan of travelling coaches moved slowly towards their first overnight stop at the ______ Inn some four hours travel from Longbourn. Stovall and Jane were allowed the privacy of the first coach given their status as newlyweds. Darcy, Georgiana, Elizabeth and Mrs. Annesley shared the second coach while the maid for Jane and Georgiana and the man-servants for Darcy and Stovall travelled in the third coach. A fourth coach carried nothing but the extra baggage required for people travelling for several months.

Darcy looked at the inhabitants of his coach. Both Elizabeth and his sister were sleeping. Mrs. Annesley was quite alert and reading comfortably despite the movement of the carriage. Darcy was not sure how she could do so since trying to read while travelling always gave him a serious headache. Since he also had trouble sleeping, he could either engage his companions in conversation or admire the scenery through the window. Neither was possible at the moment which allowed his thoughts to reflect on the day's events. He honestly could not remember much of the marriage ceremony. He rather thought Jane had been beautiful. Certainly, he saw that Stovall had eyes for no one else. Darcy himself, though, was so conscious of Elizabeth's presence and his desire for her to be taking the vows with him that he could think of little else. Without any intention on his part, he thought he had not taken his eyes from her throughout the ceremony and when the registry was signed and the bride and groom made their way out of the chapel, the feel of Elizabeth's hand on his arm, the scent of her perfume - lavender he thought - and the rustle of her gown caused a very great sense of rightness. She belonged on his arm, that he knew for a certainty. He was quite unconscious of the small smile that graced his features and of the pleasure that it gave the woman on his arm. To those residents of Meryton who had little knowledge of Darcy except by rumour as a proud, disdainful gentleman, his demeanour gave the lie to such rumours.

Stovall and Jane had received the congratulations of their family and neighbours with ease and pleasure. Jane herself seemed so happy that when he approached her to offer her his congratulations, she shook her head saying, "No, I should thank you. I am the happiest of women!" The press of the crowd was such that it was a quarter hour before the wedding party was able to begin the short walk to Longbourn for the wedding breakfast.

The wedding breakfast had been a trial to be sure. Mrs. Bennet was at her fluttering best although he had to admit that she had set a fine table. To her credit, she did appear to be less voluble than he remembered. Perhaps being shunned by her neighbours had effected a major change in her behaviour. Elizabeth, for some strange reason, remained as close as possible for much of the meal seemingly to ease his comfort with so many strangers. If that was her purpose, it surely worked because, even when accosted by Elizabeth's aunt Phillips and informed that he was 'exceedingly tall and handsome', he had been able to nod graciously. Overall he thought he had survived the ordeal quite well. In fact, even Mr. Bennet had observed quietly to him that 'should he venture into the area in the future, he might drop by for another game of chess.' The fact that Darcy had bested him in the game they played last night and Mr. Bennet desired a measure of revenge might have something to do with that. His own response of 'You may count on it, sir!' had elicited a rather odd look from Mr. Bennet, followed by a glance at his second oldest daughter standing beside Darcy. A quirked eyebrow as he leant towards Elizabeth saying, "I shall, of course, say nothing to your mother." Was his only comment as he strolled off to speak to Mr. Gardiner.

Elizabeth had looked at Darcy with a small grimace. "I think he suspects something. Uncle will probably share some of the details but I will ask my aunt to withhold any of the details about Lydia, at least for now." Fortunately, Georgiana had arrived with the extra carriages about then and since Jane and Stovall had changed into their travelling clothes, they began the process of saying their farewells.

The entire trip would normally only require two overnight stops but under the circumstances Stovall and Darcy had agreed on a more casual pace and three stops, allowing the newlyweds to stay abed a little later in the morning. Each of the carriages was equipped with extra blankets, warming pans for feet, a basket of consumables and such books and activities as might entertain the travellers.

Wrapped in his thoughts, Darcy was hardly aware that the coach was slowing down and had come to a stop. Looking out the window he could see the inn where they would spend the first night. Mrs. Annesley woke Georgiana and Elizabeth while Darcy left the coach and prepared to help the ladies descend. As he was doing so, the innkeeper and his wife bustled out to greet their customers. Darcy had arranged for the use of most of the inn's rooms with a separate suite for the Stovalls. Staff came and helped carry baggage to the appropriate rooms while hot water for baths was arranged for the travellers. Stovall and Jane had, with eyes only for each other, quickly made their way to their rooms followed by the eyes and smiles of their fellow travellers.

Darcy turned to Georgiana, Elizabeth and Mrs. Annesley, "Hot water should be delivered to your rooms shortly. I have also arranged for a meal in a private small dining room an hour from now. I shall await you there."

Darcy was indeed waiting when the others entered the dining room. A glass of port in his hand, freshly bathed with clean clothes, he felt invigorated. Mrs. Annesley was the next to arrive, followed very shortly by Georgiana and Elizabeth. A very simple meal of an excellent beef stew with bread and cheese was provided. Since all of the travellers were somewhat tired, none were inclined to linger too long after the meal was completed. Darcy wished to keep Elizabeth with him for a while longer but could see from her eyes that she was quite tired and propriety would require that either Mrs. Annesley or Georgiana be present. Their plans were to depart about nine the next morning so they agreed to meet to break their fast at half past seven. Elizabeth's hopes to stay and talk with Darcy came to naught when he looked at her closely, "you look exhausted. You spent most of the night talking to your sister and you really could not sleep well in the coach. You need to get some sleep." Saying this, he sent them all off to their rooms and himself as well.

Stovall and Jane followed the innkeeper's wife up the stairs to their rooms where she said, "Your bedroom is here, sir. There is a dressing room on either side and a small sitting room here across the hall." Stovall looked at Jane "I would like to wash the dirt off from our travel. Shall I meet you in the sitting room in a half hour to have something to eat?" Upon Jane's consent, he requested a light meal of cold chicken, bread, cheese and wine to be prepared and served in the sitting room.

When a half hour had passed, Stovall knocked on the door to Jane's dressing room which was quickly opened by his smiling wife. "I am a little hungry, husband. Shall we eat?"

Taking her arm he led her to the sitting room and seating her at the table whispered in her ear, "I have a huge hunger tonight!" and then bestowed a kiss under her ear. Her shiver and instinctive reach to draw his lips to hers led to a long slow kiss. As he deepened the kiss, she could feel his tongue trace her lips and she opened them and met his tongue with her own. His hand left the back of her chair and came to cup her face and hold her lips to his and then gradually moved to stroke her shoulder and arm. He gently broke the kiss and, with some effort at self control, said "we should eat."

Neither had been able to eat much at the wedding breakfast. Nor had they more than sampled the consumables provided in their coach. As a consequence, they found themselves addressing the meal provided with considerable enthusiasm. It was not long before they had finished all that had been provided and were sitting back in their chairs, quite replete. Jane rose to her feet and, taking her husband by the hand, led him to the settee and gently pushed him to sit. She then turned and sat herself leaning back against him and when he wrapped his arms around her, murmured "You have no idea how long I have wanted to be able to have you do this." Leaning her head back against his shoulder, she laid her hands over his. He could not keep his hands so idle. "I have wanted to do this for weeks" he said, and began to caress her face, arms, belly and breasts gently. Finally he sat up and rose off the settee. "I think it is time we retire to bed." and he carefully lifted her in his arms and carried her to their bedchamber.

Jane had cause to remember her aunt's words prior to the wedding. She had not talked of pain or enduring the situation, but rather that she was going to be married to a man who loved her and would be gentle and kind. Most disconcerting was her suggestion that, in the privacy of the bedchamber, nothing between a husband and wife was truly wrong. That had discomposed her more than anything her mother had said.

They joined together as husband and wife and Jane realized her aunt was right. He was kind, gentle and loving and she fell asleep in her husband's arms knowing that they had taken the first of many steps together as husband and wife. As he gazed at her, he took as much pleasure from the smile on her face as she slept, as from the cries of pleasure she emitted during the night.

Stovall woke the next morning feeling quite disorientated. He could not move his left arm, something warm was pressed against his chest and his hand had closed on something warm and soft. As he swam up to consciousness, memories of the past night came alive. He treasured the pleasures of their first joining, the tenderness of waking in the middle of the night and sharing their pleasure once again. Now he felt himself becoming aroused once more and began to stroke and caress his wife's body. Half awake she turned on her back and gave him greater access which he was not slow to enjoy for her pleasure and his own. Their eventual fulfillment left them exhausted but delighted with each other and as they drifted back to sleep, he heard her murmur "So very nice."

The newlyweds were the last to break their fast the next morning and were greeted by studiously bland faces by the other members of the party. Apart from an "I hope you slept well!" from Elizabeth, conversation was deliberately non-consequential focusing on the food and the travel plan for the day. Stovall and Jane managed to partake of the meal with admirable composure, although Jane's blushes were telling every time she looked up and saw Elizabeth's smirk. Fortunately for all, the weather continued to be reasonable for the time of year and they only required one further overnight stay at an inn before arriving at Pemberley late in the evening of the third day of the trip.
As they travelled through the woods after turning off the road to Pemberley, Georgiana pointed out the window to a small building by an impressive set of stone pillars, "Look Elizabeth, there is the entrance to Pemberley!"

"Where is the house?"

"We cannot see it from here. We have to climb to the top of a ridge. The house is located on the other side of the valley. There is a spot on the ridge that has an excellent view of Pemberley." explained Darcy. "We should get there in a quarter hour or so."

Elizabeth continued to gaze out the window at the passing trees as the coach continued to climb. Finally, the road levelled and the carriage came to a stop. The carriage containing Stovall and Jane, which was following close behind, also stopped. Darcy was quick to exit and help the ladies to descend. Stovall did the same for Jane. Darcy led them all to a break in the trees which overlooked the entire valley.

Pemberley was a large stone house, bathed in a golden colour of the late afternoon sun, located on the rising ground on the opposite side of the valley. Heavy woods covered the slopes of the ridge behind the house. In front of the house gardens sloped down to a small, man-made pond fed by a stream that wound its way down the valley. Snow still dotted the woods although the grounds were clear with only faint tinges of green showing signs of an approaching spring.

Elizabeth could only gaze in admiration, "How well the house blends into the landscape. It looks so natural, so much in keeping with its surroundings." She whispered almost too softly for Darcy to hear. She turned to him, "I like your home very much, sir!"

"And that is how I feel. It is my home. The place where I would spend all my days if that were possible." Darcy's voice was rough with emotion. He let them gaze for another minute and then shepherded them back to their carriages. "Let us be going, I suspect they await us and I, for one, would enjoy a hot bath!"

As the carriages came into view of the house, Elizabeth could see people pouring out of the house. When her carriage came to a final stop, Darcy again was out of the door before a footman could open it. Offering his hand to Elizabeth, he smiled "Welcome to Pemberley, Miss Elizabeth." and helped her to descend. Turning to Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley, he assisted them out of the carriage and then ushered the whole party forward. "Miss Bennet, Captain Stovall, Mrs. Stovall I would like to introduce you to the Pemberley housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds, who has been filled that role for almost five and twenty years. Her husband, Mr. Reynolds, has been our butler for almost as long. Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Reynolds, please welcome Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Captain Amos Stovall and Mrs. Jane Stovall. Now, let us move indoors out of this cool breeze."

Once inside, he turned to the Stovalls and grinned, saying, "Your rooms are located on the third floor on the west wing. You have that wing to yourselves with complete privacy. No one will bother you and you may ignore the world around you. Ring, if you wish services. You can have your meals in your rooms at your convenience or eat with us should you so desire." Mrs. Reynolds directed a footman to lead them to their rooms.

Turning to Elizabeth, Darcy informed her, "Mrs Reynolds will show you to your rooms. I thought we might dine at seven and I could give you a brief tour of the house. I am sure you are eager to explore our library."

The Stovalls did not come down for dinner and, in fact, were not seen by anyone for several days. After dinner Elizabeth was given a tour of the public rooms ending at the library, from which she could not be budged until it was time to retire for the evening. She and Darcy browsed happily, selecting a few volumes for her to read. When they eventually left the library, she accepted Darcy's offer of his arm and he began leading her towards her room. As they climbed the stairs, he stopped when they reached to top and turned to her, "I expect that you will be rising early. If I remember correctly, you like to rise with the sun to walk for an hour or two before breaking your fast. Am I wrong?"

"No sir, you are quite correct. I cannot wait to explore the grounds around Pemberley."

"I do not wish to impose on you but would like to join you on these walks. I prefer to rise early also and would like to enjoy them with you. However, I will understand if you prefer your solitude."

Elizabeth took a minute or two to consider. "I admit to a preference to walking alone but that is mostly because I walk faster than others. I suspect that you should have no trouble keeping pace with me. As I remember our walks at Rosings, we were well matched in that regard." She forbore to add "at least"

Darcy gave a rueful grin, "I suspect I did not show too well there. I thought you knew I was seeking you out but I have come to conclude that you did not."

"Truly sir, I thought you disliked me and that telling you it was a favourite path would lead you to avoid the route and myself."

"Yes, so I now comprehend. I must conclude then that my presence now will not be unwelcome?"

"I would much enjoy having you show me the pathways."

"I will leave you here then. Your rooms are down that hall. Shall we meet at half past six?"

Elizabeth agreed and went to her rooms. As she opened the door she could see Darcy watching her. He bowed when he realized she was observing him. She nodded and entered her room after which he turned and walked to his bedchamber. Tomorrow he would begin courting Elizabeth Bennet in earnest.

Chapter 27

Monday, March 1, 1813 - Longbourn, Hertfordshire

Mrs. Bennet was still basking in the glow of Jane's wedding and had hied herself off to Meryton to relive the day with her sister. Her hopes that she might encounter a neighbour or two who wanted to congratulate her once again were more than satisfied with the invitation to stop and visit by a woman who had largely ignored her for months. She returned for lunch tired but satisfied. The Gardiners had a more practical purpose in hand. Having decided to be present, if possible, when the letter from Lydia arrived they had remained at Longbourn for the morning with the intention of calling on the Thompsons after lunch even if the post had not arrived. As a consequence, when the Bennet servant returned with the day's post, they were at Netherfield.

The housekeeper delivered the post to Mr. Bennet who, in his usual dilatory fashion paid it little heed until an hour had passed. There was only the one letter and the handwriting was poor and not immediately recognizable. Seeing it was addressed to his wife, he summoned the housekeeper and had her deliver the letter to her and then forgot about it entirely. Mrs. Bennet was in the parlour when she received the letter. Opening and reading it left her speechless for minutes. Her silence was broken by a screech that brought Mr. Bennet, Mary and Kitty to the room, with concern written on all their faces. Waving the letter in one hand and her handkerchief in the other, she was as incoherent as anyone had ever witnessed.

"Oh my dear girl, married! Canada, Mrs. Wickham, why did she not write? Married! Oh my nerves! Mr. Bennet, she is married! Oh, my dear, dear Lydia!"

Mr. Bennet could take no more."Madame, cease this caterwauling!" he bellowed. Grabbing the letter from her hand, he began to read. It rendered him speechless and he collapsed into the nearest chair. The remonstrations of his daughters to explain he waved off as he read the letter a second time.

"Quiet, everyone! I will read the letter so you may judge for yourselves."

"Halifax, Nova Scotia
November 14, 1812

My Dear Mama,

You will never guess where I am. My dear Wickham has brought me to the colonies where he has hopes of making his fortune. We were assisted in this by Mr. Darcy although my husband, how droll that sounds, says that he had no knowledge of it. George had a good laugh at Mr. Darcy's expense. What a joke! I can hardly write for laughing! He gave George £1,000 to go to the United States by himself but instead he brought me to Canada. We plan to travel to a place called York in Upper Canada. La! These colonies seem to have so many places with English names. It almost seems like home.

We went to Gretna Green as planned and were married there. We had stopped in London for me to buy some wedding clothes and then to Gretna Green. I am the first of my sisters to be married and Jane must now come after me. I was so proud to be standing next to my dear George in his regimentals. Unfortunately he has had to resign his commission but perhaps he can join the militia in Canada. I am sure his experience in the militia in Hertfordshire will make him a Major or Colonel.

We wished to visit Longbourn before we left but Mr. Darcy apparently would not allow George to delay the trip. I so wanted to show my handsome husband to all our neighbours. How they would envy me.

I meant to write before we sailed but in the hurry I forgot. We are sending this via a ship that will stop in London sometime in the next few months. It must go to the West Indies before heading to London. I am sure it will get to you eventually unless the ship is captured by those Americans. I do not understand why they wish to fight us.

Anyway, I must hurry to complete this letter as we are preparing to leave for a place called Montreal and then on to York. George is calling me to come. I don't know when I will meet you all again. Perhaps my sisters can come and visit me. I am sure I can find husbands for them here.

Your Loving Daughter,
Lydia Wickham"

Kitty and Mary could hardly comprehend the letter and had to read it themselves before it could be believed. Their mother could not wait to spread the news and commandeering the carriage and the letter from Mr. Bennet was quickly on her way to visit her sister. As he watched her leave, Mr. Bennet was certain that the glad tidings would be spread the length of Meryton before nightfall. It was at this point that the Gardiners returned from their call on the Thompson family.

Mr. Gardiner looked at his brother, "Why was Fanny in such a hurry?"

"My youngest daughter has finally proven she is truly the silliest girl in the country. We have just now received a letter from her saying that she has married Wickham and they have gone to the colonies. Canada, can you believe that? Of all the countries they could have chosen......Canada!"

"Married? ... Lydia?"

"Apparently they went to Gretna Green after all! The trip to London was for wedding clothes for Lydia. Wickham must have had more funds than we knew if he could go there for such a purpose." Mr. Bennet was clearly still grappling with the fact his youngest daughter was married, safe and had left the country.

"You are sure it was from Lydia?"

"Who else could it be from? I recognize her hand. She is as poor a writer now as ever she was."

"This must be a great relief to you all. I can see my sister has wasted no time spreading the news."

"I expect everyone in Meryton will know that she has another daughter married. I will hear nothing but complaints now that she wasn't married at Longbourn or that I did not purchase her wedding clothes. However, if she asks to visit Lydia, I might just agree."

Mrs. Gardiner had listened quietly to all this, "I must write Lizzy and Jane with this news. I know they will be much relieved."

Mr. Bennet shook his head. "There is one aspect that puzzles me sorely. Lydia mentioned that Mr. Darcy had paid Wickham to leave the country. He must be aware of Wickham's connection to Lydia. I am surprised and puzzled that he said nothing to me. Has he said anything to you, Brother?"

Mr. Gardiner had expected some such question, "Yes, he did mention it. He was not aware that Lydia was involved. In fact, the funds were given to send Wickham to the United States, not Canada. As far as we were concerned, Wickham had deserted Lydia. This will be quite a surprise for Lizzy and Jane."

Mr. Bennet regarded Mr. Gardiner carefully. It seemed to him that neither he nor his wife was as shocked by this development as was he. But was there any reason he should question the news? He could think of none. Nor was he inclined to dispute that which appeared to salvage his family's reputation. Nevertheless, there seemed to be several oddities that he was having trouble understanding and reconciling.

"Brother, would you and Madeline join me in my study? I have a few questions for you and privacy seems indicated." With this, he led them there and, once everyone was properly settled, began to express his concerns. "I have been given to understand that Mr. Darcy was simply here in the role of a groomsman for Captain Stovall but, unless I am completely imagining things, he appears to have been very attentive to Lizzy." Mr. Bennet did not miss the quick exchange of glances between the Gardiners. "Ah, so I am correct then. What can she be thinking? I believe her to dislike him greatly. Am I wrong? He is rich to be sure but I would not think that counts much with Lizzy." He paused and, without giving either of the Gardiners a chance to interrupt, continued "Then there is this trip to Pemberley and now this letter from Lydia. And he is involved in it all." As he expressed these seemingly unrelated events, it became clear to Mr. Bennet that they were not unrelated at all. "I must have some answers! There are too many oddities for me to ignore and Mr. Darcy is in the centre of them all."

Mr. Gardiner looked at his wife and, receiving a slight nod from her, turned to his brother saying, "I will tell you all but first I must have your promise of complete secrecy. Neither my sister nor Kitty nor Mary must ever be told what I am about to relate. Do I have your word?"

"You have it!"

Mr. Gardiner considered his brother carefully and smiled. "Be not so grim, Thomas. This is, in truth, rather a happy story." He then proceeded to tell Mr. Bennet about Darcy's dealings with Wickham, their meeting in January and subsequent meetings and, finally, his efforts to discover Lydia and the plan to see her married.

Mr. Bennet shook his head in amazement. "I can hardly credit it. So this young man has taken it upon himself to restore my family's respectability in order to marry Lizzy. He must care a great deal for her. I know I teased Lizzy about him but I was far from certain about his interest. I must say he has been much more amiable than when he was here last. Reserved but amiable and a good chess player as well! Can I assume that those rumours of his poor dealings with Wickham are as false as that man?"

Mrs. Gardiner smiled, "Yes, I am quite convinced of that. He has made Lizzy fully aware of those dealings. He has a reputation as a man of integrity and honour. There is no reason to believe he dealt with Wickham in any other fashion. In regard to Lizzy, if you saw them in a more familial setting, you would be quite assured of his affections. We also believe Lizzy may have had some effect on his manner but he has certainly been very amiable when in our society."

"So, shall he propose then on this trip? Is that its purpose?"

"I suspect it is one of them, yes. But I also think it is a chance for Mr. Darcy to recompense Jane for his interference in separating her from Bingley." At Mr. Bennet's quizzical look, Mrs. Gardiner explained further. "Mr. Darcy believed that Jane was largely indifferent to Mr. Bingley and advised him accordingly which convinced Mr. Bingley to break off his attentions. Mr. Darcy attempted to correct his mistake last summer but at that point, Mr. Bingley had decided his interest was not strong enough to consider marriage and chose not to return to Netherfield."

"Why would Mr. Darcy try to correct his error?"

"He and Lizzy had a serious argument while she was visiting Charlotte last spring. She apparently made him aware of his error and, from her report, not too gently."

"Given her affection for Jane, I can easily imagine her anger. So where does this leave me? Should I order Lizzy to return? I am not sure I would have approved her presence on the journey if I had known of Mr. Darcy's interest."

"I would not order her home, brother. I believe Mr. Darcy to be an honourable man and to behave appropriately. She is properly chaperoned after all. Nevertheless, I would not be surprised if he writes to seek your consent and blessing to his offer of marriage to Lizzy within the next fortnight or so."

"So I can impart none of this to Mrs. Bennet? A wise move, I am sure since it would be all over Meryton in an hour or two." Mr. Bennet considered all that he had been told. "I must admit I am still struggling to understand all of these developments. You say that Mr. Darcy is giving this young Scottish lad £5,000 to wed Lydia? I cannot hope to repay him and yet, must I offer?"

"Brother, do not expend the effort. If I could not convince him that it was my responsibility, I doubt you will."

Mrs. Gardner then excused herself to write to Elizabeth to inform her of all the doings at Longbourn. The two gentlemen continued to chat until Mrs. Bennet returned home, well satisfied that the news of Lydia's marriage was fully appreciated by all her neighbours. Her only complaint was that Mr. Darcy had been so inconsiderate as to prevent Lydia and her dear Wickham from visiting Longbourn before they left for the Americas.

Chapter 28

Tuesday, March 2, 1813 - Pemberley

As Elizabeth came trippingly down the stairs, she could see Darcy waiting for her by the main entrance. "I hope you are dressed for the cold, Miss Elizabeth. It can be quite chilly this early in the morning."

"I am, and the chill will not be a problem if we walk briskly."

"Where would you like to walk first?"

Elizabeth looked around and pointed to a path that appeared to lead down to the pond and then along the stream. "That appears quite interesting." At which she set off at a brisk pace, her breath visible in the cold air. Darcy was quick to catch up and walk beside her. They continued this way for several minutes and let the exercise gradually warm their bodies. Conversation seemed unimportant and Darcy was content to let the silence continue. After a quarter hour had passed, he ventured to say, "Miss Bennet, one of my mistakes at Rosings was, during our walks, to fail to take advantage of the opportunity they provided to get to know you better and to allow you to know me better as well. I would like to avoid repeating that mistake if you are willing." Elizabeth looked at him with a question on her lips but he continued before she could utter it. "What I had in mind was for us to take walks like this daily and talk about those things that have created misunderstandings in the past and perhaps about our own past. I am willing to try and answer honestly any question you might have, as hard as that might be on occasion. In essence, I want to get to know you and have you know me."

Elizabeth pondered his words. She knew her feelings for the man beside her had changed markedly over the past year. She believed herself to be falling in love with him and certainly her uncle and aunt seemed to think so. She had come to know him better through his letter, her observations and their few talks. But did she really know him well enough to be confident that the changes she could see would last? The difference between the man at the Meryton assembly and the man who walked beside her were such that the opportunity to explore his character must be taken. "I indeed would like the opportunity to get to know you better, Mr. Darcy." She paused and asked, "How do you propose we proceed, sir?"

Darcy grinned at her, "I had in mind giving you the opportunity to expose my faults first. Each day we will seek the answer to a question from the other. Since a single question may be insufficient to explore the issue, additional questions as necessary seem reasonable. I will allow you the privilege of asking first."

"May I suggest we start this tomorrow? I would like to consider my questions carefully."

"By all means, tomorrow is quite satisfactory. Let us enjoy this walk. I would also hope that our discussions do not prevent us from enjoying the grounds. I could only wish that it were May or June when the paths are truly beautiful."

They walked briskly for an hour with Darcy showing points of interest or describing alternate paths that could be of interest.

That evening Jane and Amos joined them for dinner. Conversation was cheerful and plans for the following day were discussed. Darcy would be required to meet with his steward for several hours following breakfast but promised to conduct them on a tour of the grounds after luncheon. When they had finished the meal, they moved to the music room where first Elizabeth and then Georgiana were induced to play for them.

Elizabeth played for a half hour with Darcy turning the pages. She found it difficult to concentrate due to his closeness, and the casual brush of his arm as he turned the pages seriously discomposed her. She hardly knew whether he was deliberately brushing her shoulder or whether she was leaning towards him and encouraging the contact. She did know she wanted it to stop and yet to continue. With no conscious action on either part they reduced the space between them until they were sitting nearly hip to hip with Elizabeth occasionally brushing against him as she swayed while playing.

Darcy found himself wishing for her full attention and abruptly rose from the bench when Elizabeth finished the piece she was playing. Taking her hand, he softly suggested, "Come, let us sit over there," nodding towards a settee behind the pianoforte. "Georgiana, would you favour us with some music?"

"Of course, Brother." and a smiling Georgiana moved quietly to the instrument. Before she had begun however, Amos whispered in Jane's ear and then observed to the room, "Jane is rather tired. I think we will retire early." They rose and quickly left the room to hidden smiles from both Elizabeth and Darcy. As Georgiana began to play, Darcy took Elizabeth's hand and murmured softly, "You have no idea how much I enjoy listening to you play. To sit beside you while you do so, just enhances my pleasure."

"You derive pleasure from discomposing me, sir? That is most unkindly done."

"So my presence discomposes you. I find I can tolerate your censure quite well while enjoying your blushes." As he spoke his thumb was stroking the back of her hand causing her to shiver as goosebumps ran up her arm.

"Are you chilled? Let me get you a shawl." Darcy made as if to rise but her grasp of his hand tightened. "No sir, I am fine. Please do not bother yourself." As he settled back beside, she relaxed and placed her other hand atop his and intertwined their fingers. "Please, let us listen to your sister. I have so rarely heard anyone play so well and with such feeling. It is a joy to listen to her perform."

They sat in a comfortable silence, hands entwined, with Elizabeth gradually relaxing and her head resting on Darcy's shoulder. He realized the impropriety of their position but could not bear to disturb her comfort, or the feel of her body against his, or lose the scent of her hair. He was very aware of his arousal and only his strictest control and Georgiana's presence prevented him from kissing those lips that were so close to his own. He shifted slightly to ease the discomfort. Elizabeth felt the increasing rigidity of his body and thought he was uncomfortable with the contact. She knew it was most improper but it felt so comfortable that she was reluctant to move, but murmured to him, "I am making you uncomfortable. I should move."

"No, please. I do not wish you to move. If I am tense, Miss Bennet, it is simply to avoid doing that which would merit your strongest reproofs. You do not know the effect that you have on me and I cannot tell you."

"Oh!" Elizabeth blushed deeply. She was pretty sure she knew exactly what Darcy wanted to do and was also sure she should disapprove even as she wished for him to act on his desires. She simply squeezed his hands gently and straightened her body a little without breaking contact with his.

Darcy recognized her desire to maintain contact but reduce his tension and chose to change the subject of conversation. "Miss Bennet, I was planning to visit some of my tenants over the next week or so and was wondering if you would be interested in joining me. Georgiana would accompany us and it would give you a chance to see more of the estate."

"I think that would be most interesting." She looked at him with a question in her eyes, "How would we travel? Surely it is too far to walk."

"Most definitely! I have a gentle horse that you could ride or we could go by carriage. I think the horseback ride would be more enjoyable for you since we would not be restricted to the roads."

"I have ridden very little and not for some time. Perhaps a carriage would be best."

"Would you allow me to give you a few lessons before we venture off?"

Elizabeth thought for a minute or two, "I suspect you are quite determined on this, are you not?" Her smile robbed her words of any censure.

"I am, but your enjoyment is my first concern. I truly think you would enjoy the ride."

"I have no riding clothes."

"I am sure Georgiana can find some that might not fit you too ill. Shall I ask her?"

"Very well. When are these lessons to begin?"

"We are engaged to tour the grounds tomorrow after luncheon. Perhaps the following day, should the weather permit."

"Very well, sir. You shall walk with me in the mornings and I shall ride with you in the afternoons. You will grow tired of my company quite quickly, I fear."

"Who is fishing for compliments now?" Hearing them laugh together drew Georgiana's attention and she left the pianoforte to join their conversation. Apprised of their plans, she readily agreed to find a riding outfit for Elizabeth and to accompany them on their rides to visit the tenants. She also assured Elizabeth as to Darcy's competence as an instructor.

Chapter 29

Wednesday March 3, 1813 - Pemberley

The morning was overcast with a grey sky but somewhat milder temperatures. It had rained overnight but the pathways did not appear to be unwalkable. As they began their walk, Elizabeth considered her thoughts from the previous night. Speaking carefully she began, "The first time I saw you, I thought 'what a handsome man' and then when we were first introduced to Mr. Bingley and yourself, you barely acknowledged our existence, turned and walked away from us. Later you insulted me personally and then, by implication, every other woman in the room except Mr. Bingley's sisters. Do you remember your words because I cannot forget them - 'She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me, and I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men.' And 'there is not another woman in the room with whom it would not be a punishment to me to stand up.' As the evening progressed, you gave every impression of holding all of us in contempt, as below you, unworthy of even the slightest consideration from you. That evening laid the foundation for my disapprobation and coloured all of our subsequent dealings. I have managed to look past your behaviour but it still puzzles me exceedingly, even now. Why? How could you have been so arrogant, disdainful, even cruel to people who wished only to think well of you? On a personal basis, I suspect you have no idea how hurtful your words were to a young woman of just twenty years who, by no means, believed herself to be a beauty! I am concerned, if you will, that that man will somehow reappear."

Darcy could sense the hurt that underlay Elizabeth's question. She may have been able to forgive his behaviour but clearly she had not forgotten. First, he had to apologize for the personal insult, "I was wrong to speak so. Very wrong! It was not long before I found you to be one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance. I also owe you an apology for the incivility of expressing such sentiments in such a public setting."

Darcy walked on, head bowed in thought. He spoke not for several minutes until Elizabeth feared he would say no more. She could feel a twinge of anger and tried to suppress it. Fortunately, Darcy continued as though there were no interruption.

"The question of 'why' speaks to the heart of my character. The easy answer is that I was worried about Georgiana, since Ramsgate was only a month or two in the past and she was still suffering from Wickham's cruelty. Another factor is that I have always been extremely uncomfortable in crowds, particularly when I know few, if any, of the people - I simply did not want to be there that night. Also Bingley, who is like a brother to me, can be, on occasion, the most annoying and persistent individual and that night, given the first two conditions I mentioned, I spoke with no intent, no consideration other than to get him to desist in bothering me. That would be the easy answer." He paused and looked at Elizabeth. He saw no absolution in her eyes and he shook his head, "That would be the obvious answer and one that contains some truth but it would be a very incomplete one."

His walking pace had slowed as he considered how best to express his thoughts. He looked up and noticed that the path divided up ahead. "I think we should take the left fork since it will keep us in sight of the house. For your protection, we need to observe the basic proprieties. I would not have your reputation harmed in any form."

"I thank you, sir, but hope you are not trying to deflect my question."

Darcy laughed, "Hardly, Miss Elizabeth. I know well enough that you will not be persuaded to relinquish it. I am simply trying to find the proper words. Last summer I faced this same question from my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. The answer I found then is, I believe, still correct. I had been a selfish being all my life, in practice, though not in principle. As a child I was taught what was right, but I was not taught to correct my temper. I was given good principles but left to follow them in pride and conceit. Unfortunately an only son, and for many years an only child, I was spoiled by my parents who, though good themselves (my father particularly was all that was benevolent and amiable), allowed, encouraged, almost taught me to be selfish and overbearing, to care for none beyond my own family circle, to think meanly of all the rest of the world, to wish at least to think meanly of their sense and worth compared to my own. Such I was from eight to eight and twenty; and such I might still be, if not for you. You taught me a lesson, hard indeed at first, but most advantageous. By you I was properly humbled. I came to you in Hunsford without a doubt of my reception. You showed me how insufficient were all my pretensions to please a woman worthy of being pleased."

"Had you then persuaded yourself that I should accept?"

"Indeed I had! What will you think of my vanity? I believed you to be wishing, expecting my addresses."

"My manners must have been at fault, though not intentionally, I assure you. I never meant to mislead but my spirits oftentimes lead me wrong. How you must have hated me after that evening."

"Hate you! No! I was angry at first perhaps but my anger very soon took a proper direction."

"Mr. Darcy, I am puzzled by one aspect of your behaviour. Do you present as forbidding a countenance when attending balls or in society when in London?"

Darcy considered her question carefully, "Truly Miss Bennet, it depends. When I am in company of friends I suspect my behaviour is a little more amiable. After all, I was not too forbidding at Netherfield during your sojourn there, was I?"

"Except when I and Mrs Long shared a similar experience, I would admit you were not quite as forbidding."

"Mrs. Long?"

"We both were in your company for a full half hour without a word being said, she at the assembly and I in the Netherfield library."

"I have no recollection of Mrs. Long but I can assure you that not only did I spend the half hour not speaking, I don't believe I read a single page of my book."

"Why did you not speak?"

"I was trying to ensure that you had no expectations. Little did I know you probably welcomed the silence and would have been even happier if I were not there at all."

"Let us not relive such poor memories." Elizabeth looked at Darcy, "on what does your behaviour at balls depend?"

"I am required to accept invitations to many balls held by family or friends. In their company I tend to find it much easier to converse; however, one cannot be forever in such company at a ball. I came into society at about the same time my father died; I became one of the favourite objects of every match-making mother in society. If you remember the Meryton Assembly, I doubt I was in the room for a quarter hour before I heard the words 'ten thousand a year' and 'Pemberley estate'. I have been pursued in this fashion for over five years. I adopted that countenance to discourage such advances where possible."

They walked on in silence for a short distance until Darcy turned to face Elizabeth, "I trust, Miss Elizabeth, that I have answered your question satisfactorily. As to whether that man who first made your acquaintance will re-emerge, I should not speak on my own behalf. Truly, I believe he has vanished."

Elizabeth found her anger had dissipated completely. "I believe, Mr. Darcy, that you have indeed answered all my questions. Perhaps more fully than I had anticipated. I know it could not have been easy for you to do so. "

Darcy nodded and they walked in silence for a few minutes until Elizabeth quirked an eyebrow at him, "I believe sir, that the opportunity to ask a question is now yours. Ask away, sir and I will endeavour to answer."

"While I was delighted to encounter you most unexpectedly in London, I admit I was also puzzled. It appeared to me that you and your sister were living with the Gardiners, rather than simply visiting. I cannot tell you why I reached that conclusion but you seemed more like their daughters than guests. If my conclusion is correct, how and why did it come about?"

"You would not accept the simple answer that we had long desired to partake of London society?" Seeing Darcy's negative shake of the head, she gave a rueful smile, "I thought not." She rubbed her hands together as though to get some warmth into her fingers. "I think we should begin to return now." With which she abruptly turned and began to retrace her steps. Surprised, Darcy was quick to catch her up.

"When we received the news that Lydia had eloped, my family expected to hear from her shortly about her marriage. Even Jane, to whom I had imparted your dealings with Wickham, had such hopes. I did not and knew our family's reputation was ruined. My expectations were met, unfortunately. I anticipated the censure that we experienced and the extent to which my parents had failed us was borne upon me. The criticisms in your letter were hurtful but true. The behaviour of my mother and two youngest sisters was such as to warrant the greatest concern. It was my father's duty, his responsibility to control such behaviour and he would not, preferring to tease, ridicule and laugh at them and be concerned with his own peace and quiet rather than his family's reputation. I had begged him to keep Lydia home, to not allow her to go to Brighton, but he would not. He would not see that her behaviour, her want of sense - indeed her wildness - could lead to a wanton disregard of propriety. If not with Wickham, then with some other man - equally unprincipled."

She looked at Darcy. "Our lives became a torture to bear, particularly for Jane and myself. Our father, who perhaps should bear the greater part of the responsibility for our distress, was the least affected, since society had never held much of his interest. He simply retired to his study and ignored the world as he had always done. I think I began to resent him. I know I could no longer enjoy sharing the privacy of his study and I suspect he knew why, although he said nothing. Nor could I pretend to share his disparaging comments of my mother and sisters. The cost of his negligence had become much too dear."

Elizabeth considered how best to explain her feelings. "I had two examples of men who accepted and acted upon their responsibilities, yourself and my Uncle Gardiner. I was, of course, much less familiar with you but from what little I could observe, you were assiduous in handling your business concerns (as Miss Bingley once noted), you are obviously a concerned and devoted brother to your sister, and finally, I sense a dedicated and careful manager of your estate. My uncle I am much more familiar with and he possesses those attributes that I would wish in a father or a husband. He would not neglect his estate such that it was less productive than it could be, does not permit my aunt (if she were so inclined which she is not) to overspend and waste the family income, he does not neglect the upbringing of his children, nor does he slight or disparage his wife. Quite the contrary, in fact. My father is not responsible for the entail that binds Longbourn, but he is responsible for the fact that his daughters have no dowry and most have less sense than the veriest goose. He could not take the trouble to economize and provide for his wife should he die before her, nor would he ensure a proper training of his daughters instead of leaving it in the hands of a woman of little education and poor understanding. As a consequence, she has felt the fiercest need to find husbands for her daughters and to provide for herself should she be widowed. My mother has little sense but I doubt she would have pushed a match between Mr. Collins and me, if it were not for a fear for her future. My father supported my refusal but it should not have been necessary in the first instance, if he had taken the least trouble to redirect Mr. Collins' attention to my sister Mary who might have made him a decent wife."

"You were always close to him though, were you not?"

"Yes, I was his favourite. Perhaps most like him in those respects that he cherished, intelligence, love of books, and a willingness to discuss the import of what we read. He taught me, guided me as I grew up. I love my father, but it is difficult now to respect his behaviour." She looked up at Darcy. "I tell you this in confidence. I would never want to say as much to my father."

"Of course."

"The censure of our neighbours was a concern of course. You must understand the position in which Jane and I found ourselves. We were both of marriageable age and had come to realize that there were few, if any, eligible gentlemen amongst our neighbours to whom we could wish to be attached. We both wished to be married to men we could respect and esteem and who would return that respect and esteem. We did not expect such as this." And she waved her hand to indicate Pemberley and its grounds. "A modest but respectable living would suffice. But even that seemed to be denied us in Hertfordshire. When our Aunt and Uncle Gardiner visited us last Christmas, we asked if we could move to live with them. They understood our distress and persuaded our father to let us join their household. None of us really anticipated that Jane would marry so quickly nor so well. She is truly happy, I think."

They walked on in companionable silence for several minutes until she looked up at Darcy. "Well then, Mr. Darcy, have I answered your question?"

"Indeed Miss Bennet. I presume then that you were not chasing me to London?"

Elizabeth glanced quickly at him and the small smile on his countenance sufficed to tell her that he was teasing. "Vanity, sir! Vanity!" They both laughed and continued to walk towards the manor house. "Truly, I had no expectations whatsoever of ever meeting you again. I thought the societies in which we each moved to be so very far apart as to preclude such an encounter. I hope that I do not feed your pride too greatly when I admit that our meeting has given me much pleasure."

"What did I once say 'pride - where there was a real superiority of mind - will always be under good regulation.' How insufferably pompous I was then."

"I will not dispute your conclusion, Mr. Darcy." With a smile she ran up the steps to the entrance and into the main hall. Handing her outerwear to a footman, she turned to Darcy and inquired, "Now sir, you must direct me to the dining room. I have a hunger that is barely under good regulation at the moment." Darcy laughed - drawing a surreptitious and surprised glance from Reynolds, his butler - and offered Elizabeth his arm saying, "Let me be your guide then. I find I have a hunger that exceeds even my pride."

They entered the dining room in good spirits and found themselves to be the first to partake. Georgiana joined them shortly thereafter and they planned those activities which would occupy their attention for the remainder of the day.

Elizabeth had spent the morning after breakfast exploring the house in company with Georgiana and Mrs. Reynolds who, by virtue of more than twenty years experience as housekeeper, had conducted countless tours for visitors and knew much of the recent history. Georgiana added a personal perspective from incidents related to her by her brother and father. If Mrs. Reynolds was particular in her attentions to Elizabeth as the prospective future Mistress of Pemberley, it was not readily apparent to either young woman. Elizabeth, for her part, found little to criticize and much to admire in respect of furnishings. As was the case with Darcy House, an elegant simplicity in style was married with functionality and quality to produce a comfortable place for people to live and, if some rooms were a little dated in style, the defect was not such as to necessitate urgent changes. Elizabeth noted and commented accordingly and her sensible attitude was clearly appreciated by Mrs. Reynolds, who could find no fault with her master's apparent choice of a bride.

Darcy joined them for luncheon and solicited Georgiana's help to outfit Elizabeth with a riding habit. Georgiana's enthusiasm was infectious and as soon as they finishing eating she and Elizabeth repaired to Georgiana's rooms to search through her wardrobe. After a search of an hour they were able to find garments that would fit Elizabeth. Darcy was informed that they would join him in a half hour at the stables.

While awaiting the ladies, Darcy consulted with the Stable Master to select an appropriate horse for Elizabeth. They settled on a mare of eleven years and fourteen hands high. She was of a gentle disposition and suitable for an inexperienced rider and had, in fact, been Georgiana's first full sized horse after graduating from ponies.

"Oh, you are going to have Elizabeth ride Sugar." Georgiana turned to Elizabeth, "I rode Sugar for several years and you will love her. Give her a carrot and she will follow you everywhere."

"She is smaller than our farm horses. I won't have so far to fall at least."

Darcy smiled encouragingly, "Rest assured, I will not let you fall. We will spend the first little while letting you get used to riding her and will stay here in this paddock." Getting Georgiana's attention, he suggested, "Georgiana, why don't you saddle Susan to accompany Elizabeth while I walk and guide Sugar. Have Mr. Henson saddle Ben for me."

Darcy turned to Elizabeth, "I have a carrot. Why don't you introduce yourself to Sugar before we get you mounted." Elizabeth approach the horse with a carrot in her palm and, after it had been gobbled up, stroked the horse's nose and patted her neck. Sugar snuffled and then gently butted Elizabeth in the chest. "Asking for another carrot." laughed Darcy. "Maybe tomorrow, Sugar."

Darcy led the horse towards the mounting block and assisted Elizabeth to mount, adjusting the stirrups as necessary. Handing her the reins, he led the horse towards and into the paddock, noting Elizabeth's posture and suggesting such changes as were necessary to ensure her comfort and feeling of security. Georgiana joined them, riding a grey gelding and leading a tall black gelding. Releasing his grasp of Sugar's reins, Darcy mounted his horse and with Elizabeth on Sugar between them, Georgiana and Darcy completed several circuits of the paddock at a walking pace.

"Elizabeth, you look fairly comfortable on Sugar. Your posture is good which is most important. Are you ready to go a little faster?"

Elizabeth was indeed feeling comfortable and rather bored by the slow pace. "I think a slightly faster pace would be delightful."

Darcy and Georgiana increased the pace to a slow trot after instructing Elizabeth on the appropriate signals to get Sugar to respond. Seeing that she was doing quite well, Darcy led them out of the paddock and on to the grounds for a short distance, letting Elizabeth get familiar with handling her horse.

Darcy was keeping a careful watch on Elizabeth and could see that her posture was showing signs of fatigue. "I think we should return now, Elizabeth. You have been riding for about an hour and I suspect you will feel some soreness tonight." They returned to the stables. Darcy assisted his sister to dismount and turning to Elizabeth, placed his hands around her waist and lifted her down. Elizabeth had instinctively placed her hands on his arms and was disconcerted by the contact and his nearness once her feet touched the ground. Never had a man held and lifted her in this fashion and she wondered if she would ever stop blushing when in close proximity to Mr. Darcy. Looking up, she was frozen by the look in his eyes and they stood there, gazing at each other until Georgiana's cough brought them back to reality. Darcy quickly dropped his hands and stepped back. Obviously embarrassed at his behaviour in front of his sister, he gestured to them to walk to the house and deliberately ignored Georgiana's smirk. "Miss Elizabeth! Please excuse my behaviour just now. It was most improper."

Elizabeth shook her head, "If my pardon is required, sir, it is most willing given." A most unladylike snort was heard from Georgiana which prompted a teasing response from Elizabeth, "Georgiana, are you feeling well? You have been coughing and snorting. I hope you are not ill." This was vehemently denied by Georgiana who quickly changed the subject and praised Elizabeth's riding. "I think you should not need too many lessons, to become a competent rider, Elizabeth. Will we ride again tomorrow, Brother?"

"Yes, weather permitting. I would like to venture a little further afield if Miss Elizabeth is willing."

Chatting comfortably they proceeded into the house and to their respective rooms to bathe and rest. The meal and evening passed in quiet comfort. Jane and Stovall joined them for dinner and Darcy and Stovall repaired to the billiards room afterwards for a quiet hour before rejoining the ladies in the music room. The newlyweds again retired early while Elizabeth and Georgiana amused themselves and Darcy with a wide ranging medley of Irish, Scottish and English ballads. Even Darcy was persuaded to join in singing Greensleeves. Elizabeth accompanied Georgiana to her rooms for girl talk, leaving Darcy feeling quite deserted. However it only took Elizabeth's smile and expressed wish to see him in the morning for their walk to buoy his mood and he wished them pleasant dreams.