Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter 6 - An Offer is Made

Posted on 2015-05-02

Elizabeth's resolve to wait until she and Jane had returned to Longbourn to discuss the happenings at the Parsonage received a severe setback the next day as she, Mrs. Gardiner and Jane were comfortably settled in the family sitting room discussing the engagements which Mrs. Gardiner had planned for the following days. The sound of a carriage drawing up to the front of the house was shortly followed by the maid entering the room and announcing, "Mr. Darcy, ma'am."

That gentleman's entrance followed closely on those words and Elizabeth's surprise left her speechless for several moments until finally, collecting herself and remembering her duties, she said, "Mr. Darcy, may I present to you my aunt, Mrs. Gardiner. Aunt, this is Mr. Darcy of Pemberley, Derbyshire."

Mr. Darcy bowed to Mrs. Gardiner, saying, "I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mrs. Gardiner."

Mrs. Gardiner collected herself sufficiently to respond, "I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr. Darcy. I understand that Elizabeth renewed her acquaintance with you in Kent."

"Indeed, we dined together several times with my Aunt and I had the pleasure of walking with her several times."

Jane's eyebrows rose upon hearing this and her questioning look directed at Elizabeth told the latter that she would not be spared from revealing all that happened in Kent until they returned to Longbourn. None of her sister's letters had spoken of such intimacy. To redirect Jane's attention, she responded, "Indeed we did. Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Darcy's cousin, was also in our company during this time. How is the Colonel, Mr. Darcy?"

"He is very well but has been called unexpectedly to Newcastle to deal with some urgent problems there. I cannot say when he will return but it may not be for a fortnight or more."

Elizabeth realized that her letter to her father had taken on a greater importance and that she might need to ask her father to contact Colonel Forster himself rather than wait for Colonel Fitzwilliam to do so. Elizabeth realized that Jane's gaze remained fixed on her and that she had detected something in Elizabeth's mien that suggested Darcy's words were of some significance. Fortunately, Jane's attention was directed back to Mr. Darcy as he greeted her before taking a seat next to Mrs. Gardiner. As Elizabeth watched with some surprise, he conversed with her aunt on their doings in Kent until Mrs. Gardiner mentioned that she had lived in Lambton in her youth and had visited the park at Pemberley several times. The conversation that followed was interesting to both as they exchanged reminiscences of the area. Elizabeth was pleased Mr. Darcy could see her aunt to be a well-spoken and genteel lady; and she found herself equally surprised at his manner. Gone was the haughty and prideful reserve that typified his behaviour in Hertfordshire. If he was not as easy and amiable as his cousin, he appeared to have put aside his reserve and was attempting to be civil and interested in the conversation.

To all appearances Mr. Darcy was not uncomfortable conversing with them all, drawing both Elizabeth and Jane into the discussion of Derbyshire and exploring with them comparisons between that place and Kent and Hertfordshire.

Elizabeth was, she admitted, sorely puzzled by Mr. Darcy's behaviour. What could he mean by visiting the Gardiners? What was his purpose? And how to explain this change in manners? It was truly vexing. She longed to ask that question but knew it to be impossible. Finally, conversation started to lapse and Elizabeth was recalled from her reflections by her aunt's rather amused, "Lizzy!"

Becoming aware that she was being regarded by the other three persons in the room, she realized that she had been addressed but had been oblivious to the question. In some embarrassment, she said, "I must apologize. I was lost in thought. Of what were you speaking?"

Mrs. Gardiner chuckled, "Indeed you were - quite lost. Mr. Darcy asked a question."

Elizabeth directed her eyes at that gentleman, her raised eyebrow prompting him to say, "I simply expressed a desire to walk in the park down the street and for your company in doing so."

Elizabeth controlled her surprise - not overly difficult she found, as she had become rather inured to surprises this day - and considered her answer. It took but a few seconds to agree to the request since she could think of no good reason to decline. What could he mean by such a request? Her opinion of Mr. Darcy had improved although she still found much to disapprove of the man but to refuse under the circumstances would be uncivil and, if she had learned nothing else from her aunt, it was that there were very few excuses for incivility. Jane was applied to join them but begged to be excused and so Elizabeth - after retrieving her bonnet, pelisse and gloves - accompanied Darcy out of the house.

Darcy's reticence seemed to return as they began their stroll down the street. His offer of his arm to Elizabeth was accepted gingerly by the lady who laid her hand but lightly in his elbow. They walked in silence for several minutes before Elizabeth ventured to say, "I must admit to considerable surprise to have you call on us, Mr. Darcy."

"Did I not inquire as to your relatives' address before I left? What did you suppose I meant by it?" Elizabeth thought she detected a slight amusement in his tone of voice.

Elizabeth blushed slightly, "I knew not...I did not expect you to call. Miss Bingley apparently had made her disdain for my relatives quite clear. I believed you to share her opinions."

"I will not deny that there is some merit in what you have said. I was too ready to consider those outside my circle as beneath my notice. My behaviour is not something I can now view with pleasure." He walked on in silence for a few moments before looking down at Elizabeth, "Miss Bennet, I would recall to your memory our last walk in Kent. Before we parted, I gave you to believe two things." He shook his head before continuing, "Even as I said them, I knew that one of those statements was a falsehood. I spoke in anger, in disappointment. I said, if you remember, that I did not dislike you at all, quite the reverse in fact. I also said I was ashamed of what my own feelings had been. That was untrue. I was not ashamed - my feelings have not altered at all."

Elizabeth could not conceive of any possible answer. That he regarded her with affection, she struggled to believe. His next words compounded her confusion - or rather the tone of his voice did so - since she had never heard Mr. Darcy speak so gently, "You do not like me, do you Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth glanced up at his face quickly but could see no anger, no disdain, nothing but a quiet concentration, his eyes intent on her face. It was much the same look he had directed at her at times in Hertfordshire and again in Kent. Now she recognized it for what it was. He was not glaring at her, at least, not now. She forced herself to respond, "I feel I have been given little reason to like you, sir."

Darcy nodded, "I agree." He could not help but smile at the amazement that spread over her face, "Truly, Miss Bennet, I can hardly fault you for being confused about my feelings when I battled them myself for months. In Hertfordshire I found myself attracted but fought the attraction and - to my shame - made every effort to hide it. Most successfully it appears, would you not agree?"

Elizabeth found herself smiling in return, "Very successfully, sir. I might add that even Charlotte Collins, who once thought you to admire me, came to believe herself wrong when she observed your behaviour in Kent."

"And yet - to my embarrassment - I had believed you to be aware of my interest, of my attentions; that I was showing my interest by my calls at the Parsonage and joining you on your walks; and that you were, in fact, soliciting my interest there. That was not your intent, was it?"

"No, Mr. Darcy, it was not. I believed you to dislike me and was trying to suggest you could avoid me by walking a different path. Your continued presence confused me greatly."

By this time they had entered the small park and were walking the path that wound its way around the perimeter. Darcy opened and closed his mouth several times, obviously struggling to express his thoughts. Elizabeth watched and wondered. What ensued left her equally bereft of words.

"Miss Bennet, my feelings for you are...you must allow me to tell you how much I admire and love you." He turned to face her and held up his hand as though to prevent her from speaking although she was too overcome with surprise to do so, He then said, "Please, I can see that you are shocked. I expected it to be so. If I thought there was any chance of you accepting an offer of marriage, I would make it but your ...opinion of me that you expressed so strongly in Kent leads me to believe such an offer would not be accepted. I am not wrong, am I?"

Elizabeth's answer was so quiet as almost to be inaudible, "No sir, you are not."

"That is as I thought." They walked without talking for several minutes, Elizabeth struggled to assimilate what she had been told and confused as to where he planned to direct their conversation. That he had a direction, she was now sure. He appeared to have anticipated her responses and, if so, must have a goal in mind. Clearly, he would not have visited Gracechurch Street if he had planned to withdraw. His next words did not altogether surprise, although she had not expected them.

"Miss Bennet, I would like the opportunity to change your opinion of me. I have spent much of the past week trying to view my behaviour and understand how I could have earned such disapprobation from you. I do not like what I found, what I saw. I believe that I have not behaved towards you as a man should behave if he wants to obtain the good opinion, the affections if you will, of a woman for whom he has developed an attraction. In essence, Miss Bennet, I wish to court you properly with the objective of making you an offer of marriage when the time is right."

Elizabeth knew that she must respond in some fashion although her thoughts were too jumbled to admit of a coherent and thoughtful answer and so she temporized, "I cannot deny or hide my surprise Mr. Darcy. Even if I were to agree to a courtship, I cannot promise that my opinion will change or that my answer will be favourable."

"I am quite aware of that Miss Bennet. I do not expect an answer today. Could I call on you on Tuesday to receive your response? Is two days sufficient time?"

Elizabeth continued to walk in silence. She could feel a degree of frustration and confusion that she had never before experienced. Why could he not leave her in peace? She controlled the urge to reject his offer, knowing that it was frustration and her anger and dislike of him that was driving such a precipitous response. His manner today and her many errors of judgement with regard to him, required that she treat him with more consideration and so she replied, "Very well, Mr. Darcy. If you call on me on Tuesday next, I will have your answer."

Elizabeth was surprised to see a look of relief cross his countenance and guessed that he was concerned she might even refuse him directly. Oddly enough, that uncertainty pleased her although she knew not why.

They walked on in a strangely comfortable silence for several minutes until Darcy rather hesitantly said, "I wish you to know something else. I have considered your words very carefully - your charges against me in regards to your sister and Bingley. I am prepared to believe that I could be wrong about your sister's affections for him. That I cannot hold with the same certainty as before that my opinion is, in fact, correct. In such a circumstance, I should not advise my friend on that matter at all. I have written to Bingley - he is in the north at the moment visiting his relations there - and asked him to call on me as soon as he returns to town. I am resolved to admit to him then that my opinion may be incorrect and advise him to determine for himself the state of your sister's affections." He paused to look at Elizabeth and the satisfaction which greeted his words was clear. Nevertheless, he felt obligated to caution her expectations, "I do not believe Bingley likely to return for a fortnight at least. I assume your sister also returns to Longbourn in a few days. I will also assure you that I will do what I promised, regardless of the answer I receive on Tuesday."

Elizabeth considered him closely. She realized that she had no doubt that he would act as he had stated. His honour, she comprehended, would not allow him to do otherwise and so she nodded in acknowledgement before adding, "Yes, Jane returns to Longbourn on Tuesday next, as will I." She paused to consider that she was to give him an answer that day and then said, "Our schedule is not fixed and for us to stay an extra day or two would not burden my aunt and uncle."

By this time they had reached the front door of the Gardiner house and Elizabeth removed her hand from his arm - oddly enough, she thought, it had been rather comfortable there - as they entered the house. Darcy's carriage was called and, while waiting for it to arrive, they returned to the sitting room for him to take his proper leave of Mrs. Gardiner and Jane. Shortly thereafter he left and Elizabeth turned to face the combined gazes of her aunt and sister and, realizing that she would have much to discuss with them both, murmured, "There is no time at present to discuss all that has happened. I will need your advice and guidance but not now. Later tonight perhaps, and certainly tomorrow, we will have much to discuss."

Although clearly not happy to defer such a discussion, both ladies recognized that time did not permit it since they were required to prepare for the evening's engagement. Mrs. Gardiner's parting comment, however, warned Elizabeth that nothing less than the complete truth would do, "I wonder at your description of Mr. Darcy, Lizzy. I found him to be perfectly amiable and pleasant. Your letters have not suggested the degree of familiarity and amiable behaviour that he showed today. Would you not agree?"

"True aunt, although I have never seen him as amiable as he was today." Elizabeth would not be drawn further on the subject and quickly removed to her room to prepare herself for the evening.

An evening in company with close friends of her aunt and uncle who were slightly known to both Elizabeth and Jane from previous visits and who were themselves pleasant and intelligent, should have made for a delightful engagement; but Elizabeth found it most difficult to keep her attention engaged in the conversation that surrounded her. All too frequently her thoughts would meander towards Mr. Darcy and the conundrum that he was posing for her. Elizabeth's distraction did not go unnoticed by the others whose civility was such as to preclude their making mention of it. Nonetheless, her aunt, in particular, was determined to interrogate her niece, whom she knew to be both sensible but extremely reserved in her private affairs, as soon as was possible. So firmly were her intentions fixed in this regard, that the Gardiners and their nieces separated from their hosts, in order to return home, rather sooner than was their usual wont.

They had but gained the Gardiner home for a few minutes when Mrs. Gardiner, with a speaking glance at her husband, saying, "Now my dear, it is not too late for you to enjoy a glass of port and a book in your study. Perhaps Jane might join you?" Jane looked rather surprised at such a directive, clearly having hoped to be part of any discussion with her sister, but also understanding that her aunt might wish to have a more private interview with Elizabeth.

Mr. Gardiner was not unaware of the day's events involving Mr. Darcy, of his wife's concerns or that his niece had been unusually distracted that evening and simply nodded and said, "That is an excellent idea, my dear. Should you desire my presence or help, you know where to find me. Jane, will you join me?" to which she assented, since it was too early to prepare for bed and she hoped, rather than expected, that she might have the opportunity to talk later with her sister.

Mrs. Gardiner first checked on her children before arranging to have tea and biscuits delivered to her sitting room where she subsequently directed her steps, considering as she went how best to approach the matter with Elizabeth. Upon entering the room she found her sitting in a chair near the fire - the evening was cool and the warmth of the fire quite pleasant. Taking the opposing chair she returned to her internal deliberations and, finally seeing that Elizabeth was reluctant to open the discussion, opined, "I cannot reconcile the Mr. Darcy I met today with the one you described to me at Christmas."

Elizabeth grimaced, "Neither can I aunt. And he did not behave so in Kent."

The arrival of the maid with the tea service stopped all conversation until she had left and both ladies had prepared a cup of tea to their satisfaction. Mrs. Gardiner considered her niece carefully, thinking about what had happened that day before speaking, "Lizzy, you appeared much as you ever were before Mr. Darcy appeared. It is only after you returned from your walk with him that you seemed seriously discomposed. What happened on that walk?"

Elizabeth sighed. She knew that this conversation was necessary - indeed, she had almost wished for it - but it would not be an easy one to endure. To reveal her mistakes, errors of judgement, foolish preferences and vanity to her aunt, a woman whose opinion she valued almost as much as that of her father, would be embarrassing and distressing. Reluctantly she began, "Mr. Darcy asked to court me."

Mrs. Gardiner sat back in surprise. Clearly she had not expected such a response, "Court you! Are you sure? Of course you are! How stupid of me! What did...How did you respond?"

Elizabeth gave a rather mirthless laugh, "You are no more surprised than I, aunt." Several seconds passed before she said, "He must have realized how shocked I was because he did not insist on an answer immediately. He is to call Tuesday. I have promised him an answer then." She looked at her aunt, "I need your advice, your guidance because truly I am too confused to know how to answer."

"Well, we do have time to consider the matter Lizzy. We do not have to reach a decision tonight." She sat quietly for a few minutes, her face not concealing that her thoughts absorbed her before finally saying to Elizabeth, "I would wish to understand your dealings with the gentleman from the very beginning. I know we talked of him last Christmas, but I would like to know the particulars from your very first meeting." She paused for a moment, "You may find the telling to be helpful as well, do you not think?"

Elizabeth nodded but sat in silence for several minutes, her aunt watching her closely as she organized her thoughts. Finally Elizabeth spoke, "I first saw Mr. Darcy at the Assembly in Meryton when he and the Bingleys were introduced to us all."

Mrs. Gardiner interjected, "What was your first impression of him, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth's smile was rueful, "I quite thought him the handsomest man I had ever seen." Her pause was almost imperceptible as she continued, "However, within a very few minutes I was irritated by his incivility and, by the end of the evening, insulted and believed him to be the rudest, most conceited and arrogant gentleman I had the misfortune to meet."

"Was that the whole of his incivility? It seems rather trifling to me to warrant such disapproval as you expressed to me. I believe I must insist on your full confidence in this Lizzy. You must tell me all!"

Chapter 7 - Mrs. Gardiner Advises

If Elizabeth had any doubts as to her aunt's determination that her niece make a full disclosure of her dealings with Mr. Darcy, they were of a short duration. What followed was by turns embarrassing and humiliating in equal measures with moments of humour and mortification and confusion interwoven. Mrs. Gardiner did not allow her to escape the revelation of any detail of Mr. Darcy's experiences in Hertfordshire; from the blow to her vanity when called 'not handsome enough to tempt me' and 'slighted by other men'; from her revenge in mocking Mr. Darcy to her friends and family; from the time spent at Netherfield nursing her sister and enduring the slights and incivilities from Mr. Bingley's sisters which she confessed that she had - at that time - believed to be shared by Mr. Darcy; from the revelations made by Mr. Wickham; and finally the dance Elizabeth shared with Mr. Darcy at the Netherfield ball.

Mrs. Gardiner probed and questioned until satisfied that Elizabeth had omitted no salient fact. Elizabeth sat back somewhat exhausted after nearly two hours of reconstructing her history with Mr. Darcy. The evening was advanced, she knew, and they had not touched on those matters that arose from her visit to Charlotte at Hunsford. She looked at her aunt with something akin to dread as she said, "I hope that you will grant me some relief. The hour grows late and I am sure we are both quite tired. Can we not continue this tomorrow?"

Mrs. Gardiner surveyed her niece with concern. She was not altogether pleased by what she had heard so far and while loath to chastise Elizabeth too harshly, felt that she should not hide her displeasure altogether. Cautiously, she responded, "I find myself rather concerned by your account so far, Elizabeth. I wish now we had talked more openly when I visited at Christmas. I will not hide from you that I believe that while you have grounds to be annoyed with Mr. Darcy based on your initial meeting; your subsequent behaviour was quite immoderate in relation to the offence against you. I had thought you more sensible than this."

Elizabeth could not hide her chagrin, "I had thought so also. I disparaged Mr. Darcy for his improper pride and yet mine was no less improper."

"Well, my dear, I will allow you to escape for now. I can see you are tired and need to rest. I will speak with Jane to ensure she does not importune you for explanations tonight." She rose and approached her niece and gave her a soft kiss on her forehead, "Get some rest, my dear. We will speak further in the morning after we break our fast."

Elizabeth was not sorry to reach the sanctuary of her room, nor that her aunt would prevent her sister from visiting and insisting upon a full disclosure of today's surprising events. Surprisingly, she found that her aunt's efforts to understand all that had happened while Mr. Darcy was in Hertfordshire had quite clarified the matter in her own mind. Her aunt had not spoken much of Mr. Wickham's story but her mien when that was mentioned suggested a degree of scepticism not previously present and Elizabeth had not even mentioned those details revealed by Colonel Fitzwilliam. Instead her aunt Gardiner had simply questioned the propriety of Mr. Wickham having told such a story to a very new acquaintance, had raised an eyebrow which discomfited Elizabeth exceedingly when she made known how her own disparagement of Mr. Darcy had prompted that story; and had nodded knowingly when Elizabeth acknowledged that Mr. Wickham had provided no proofs of his story. When told that he stated that he would never disparage the son due to his regard for the father, her frown had become of significant proportions and she could not help but exclaim, "And did this not alarm you, Lizzy! That he would claim to maintain secrecy while doing exactly the reverse? Did you not see the contradiction?"

Elizabeth had nodded sadly, "Truly, I was so pleased to get confirmation that Mr. Darcy was even worse than I believed that I ignored what was so obvious. I even congratulated Mr. Wickham on his forbearance in avoiding the Netherfield Ball - so as not to embarrass Mr. Bingley - despite Mr. Wickham having claimed he would not avoid Mr. Darcy, stating that Mr. Darcy must avoid him."

Elizabeth groaned into her pillow. She could not view her behaviour with anything but abhorrence. It was exceedingly difficult to think of Mr. Darcy without considering how she had misunderstood his character so badly. She, who so proudly proclaimed her ability to sketch someone's character, had failed miserably in this instance. If her thoughts were directed more to how she had so signally failed in such efforts, it was impossible not to recognize the difference between what she had thought she understood about his character and what she now believed to be the truth. She could not regret avoiding Jane tonight. It was hard enough to endure her aunt's gentle inquisition. Having to do so again with Jane tonight would be too much. Her nerves were raw as it were and even with Jane's gentle kindness, the telling would only exacerbate them further.

Her body told her it was tired but she little thought her mind would allow her to sleep and it was with no little surprise that she woke the next morning more rested than she had expected. The hour was early, with two hours to breakfast, and she resolved to venture out for a short walk. Dressing and running down stairs, she found a footman who could accompany her - her Uncle Gardiner insisted that she take a footman on such walks since London was a more dangerous place than Hertfordshire - and was soon walking briskly in the direction of the local park. Banishing thoughts of Mr. Darcy from her mind, she forced herself to walk as briskly as was possible and, to her pleasure, the air - although not as fresh as Hertfordshire - seemed to have been cleaned by an overnight rain and combined with the exhilaration of the exercise, raised her spirits considerably. By the time she entered the Gardiner home over an hour later, she was both happy and hungry.

When she had refreshed herself and ventured downstairs once more, breakfast was ready and she found Jane and her aunt already ensconced at the table and partaking of the meal. Her uncle, having eaten, had already left for his warehouse. Elizabeth felt herself the focus of the gaze of both her sister and her aunt although neither said more than the commonplace greetings. This quietude continued as she served herself and began to eat with the only conversation being about plans for the day and Jane's return to Longbourn on the morrow. If Elizabeth had any expectations that her aunt would not resume their discussion, they were vanquished by her quiet command, "I must check on the children. Jane, will you be able to take them out for an hour or so this morning?"

"Yes, aunt. The weather is warm and clear. We can visit the park." If Jane was aware that she was being politely excluded from the talk that her sister was going to hold with her aunt, she appeared unconcerned as far as Elizabeth could determine. "After all" she thought, "Jane will have her turn later - probably tonight."

Mrs. Gardiner then directed her attention to Elizabeth, saying "When you have finished eating, please come to my sitting room." She then left to check on her children while Elizabeth, with deliberate speed, finished her breakfast.

When she entered her aunt's sitting room, Elizabeth was slightly surprised that her aunt had not preceded her. In fact, it was some ten minutes before Mrs. Gardiner joined her which did little to soothe Elizabeth's nerves which had become more agitated as time passed. Her disquietude seemed to be apparent to Mrs. Gardiner when, as she made herself comfortable in the same chair she had occupied the previous night, she invited Elizabeth to do likewise. After asking if Elizabeth had slept well - and receiving a positive answer - she inquired about the early morning walk which led to a brief discussion about how much her niece had enjoyed it and how well it made her feel. Sensing that Elizabeth had calmed, Mrs. Gardiner asked, "Lizzy, Mr. Darcy left Netherfield before December and you did not see him again until you visited your friend in Hunsford. Did you have occasion to think much of him during those four or five months?"

Elizabeth took a few seconds to answer, "Not really, aunt. Apart from the stories spread by Mr. Wickham, there was no reason to do so. I suppose I must have thought of him once in a while but mainly in connection with Mr. Bingley. Mama's lamentations were a daily event I am afraid."

"What did you think of him?"

"I saw no reason to change my opinion. I suppose his absence moderated my dislike and when I met him again in Hunsford, I do believe I found him less irritating but only a little. He remained a puzzle." Elizabeth thought for a moment before adding, "Charlotte did raise one issue when we were discussing Mr. Darcy although it had more to do with Mr. Wickham. She was less impressed with him than I and noted that he did not appear to have had an occupation for the years after he left university. She wondered at how he made his living." Elizabeth's voice took on a bitter note, "Well, now I know. He was living off - wasting - the money that Mr. Darcy gave him."

"Ah yes, Mr. Wickham. I wish to know more about that gentleman and I believe you have much to tell me; but, before you do, I would prefer you to tell me what happened from the day Mr. Darcy arrived at Hunsford. I will allow you a few minutes to collect your thoughts while I arrange for some tea. I suspect we both will need it before we are done."

Elizabeth gazed into the fireplace where the fire had been banked to moderate the heat it threw off. The morning had been slightly chilly and the room itself had retained the chill and was only slowly warming up. When her aunt offered her a cup of tea, prepared as she preferred it, she settled back and began to revisit those three weeks that Mr. Darcy had been visiting his aunt. His visits and behaviour during them and his meeting her on her walks were noted with little questioning from her aunt other than, "And truly, you did not realize that he was deliberately meeting you on your walks?" That she could have been so blind was embarrassing for Elizabeth to admit but on the overall scale of the embarrassments she experienced, it was of little moment.

It was not until she began to talk of her final two walks with Colonel Fitzwilliam and the subsequent walks with Mr. Darcy that her aunt began to question her more closely with the evident purpose of extracting all pertinent details. When told of Mr. Wickham's actual dealings with Mr. Darcy as revealed by the Colonel, her concern became particularly noticeable when apprised of Mr. Wickham's alleged behaviour. Questioned about the possibility of that gentleman's imposing himself on young women in Meryton and on the shopkeeper fathers there, Elizabeth imparted Colonel Fitzwilliam's opinions and that she herself had written to her father and asked him to take appropriate action. Mrs. Gardiner was not particularly relieved by this news given her experience with Mr. Bennet's indolent habits. That the Colonel planned to write the Colonel of the ____shire Regiment, appeared to give her more comfort.

Elizabeth considered whether to reveal that the young heiress that Mr. Wickham attempt to induce into an elopement was Mr. Darcy's sister but decided her promise of secrecy to that gentleman should be honoured and she could not see any particular benefit would accrue if Miss Darcy's involvement was revealed. One thing did puzzle Elizabeth. Her aunt, while clearly shocked by the revelations of Mr. Wickham's misdeeds, was nowhere as seriously discomposed as she herself had been. She sought an explanation from her aunt who was not slow to respond, "When you informed me of Mr. Wickham's attentions to Miss King, my opinion of him began to change or rather I questioned his behaviour. You refused to impart any mercenary motives to him but I could see nothing else and, if he could act so blatantly mercenary in that matter, what other flaws might he have and be concealing? I am surprised at his perfidy but not as much as you since my suspicions were already aroused."

If Mrs. Gardiner's opinion of Mr. Darcy was materially improved when his dealings with Wickham were described, that opinion suffered no little damage when Elizabeth described how he had been involved in separating Jane from Mr. Bingley. Her meeting with Mr. Bingley's sisters had not imparted to her a favourable impression of either sister. That they would decry the possible union for reasons of Jane's lack of connections, dowry and station, she could easily believe; but that Mr. Darcy would base his objections primarily on Jane's perceived lack of affection, she could not readily accept until she considered her niece's extreme reserve. After a few minutes she asked Elizabeth, "You have had more time to think on this. What is your opinion of his actions?"

"I admit it was difficult at first to be fair on this matter; however, I have come to believe that he was honest in his intent to protect his friend. I once called his actions 'officious interference' but was forced to realize that I would have done the same if our positions were reversed. His purpose was well-meant but he made a mistake - unfortunately one based on his arrogant belief in his power of discernment. If he had limited himself to stating that he could perceive no affection, I suspect that Jane would be engaged to - and possibly married to - Mr. Bingley as we speak. But his arrogance led him to assume the absence of any indications of a revealed preference was the same as its absence. Perhaps I am too harsh but this is the fault I find - and so I have told him."

Mrs. Gardiner was slowly nodding her head as Elizabeth spoke, "I cannot disagree with you too much on this Lizzy but, given what he said about the impropriety of your mother and sisters, is it not possible that those concerns influenced his opinion? From what you have related of the Netherfield Ball, your mother's declaration of the engagement between Jane and Mr. Bingley must have led Mr. Darcy to believe that Jane - who has the appearance of a most gentle and pliable young woman - would be induced to accept an offer should it be made, regardless of her affections? Is that not a reasonable explanation also? And one that might excuse Mr. Darcy of undue arrogance?"

Elizabeth reluctantly agreed, "It is possible, I suppose. I admit I still tend to look for fault with Mr. Darcy; to question his motives - perhaps more than I should or more than is reasonable."

"Now, Elizabeth, perhaps we should discuss Mr. Darcy's visit yesterday. As I have already confessed, I was greatly impressed by his manner and civility. I understand that he did not behave so in Hertfordshire. Is it possible that your words have already induced him to change his behaviour?"

Elizabeth could only shake her head in puzzlement, "I do not understand it at all, aunt. He quite has me in a state of confusion."

Mrs. Gardiner then asked Elizabeth to reveal her discussion with Mr. Darcy the previous afternoon which was quickly related. Both ladies sat in silence for several minutes considering all that had been revealed until finally Mrs. Gardiner asked, "Lizzy, how do you feel about Mr. Darcy now?"

Elizabeth tried to smile with minimal success before crying, "I am all confusion. Little more than a week ago I quite detested the man and now I scarce know what to think of him. Everything I believed of him has been overset. I am all confusion, self-doubts, frustration - such a conflict - I have had so little time to order my thoughts!"

Mrs. Gardiner smiled, "It is not to be wondered at if you are confused, Lizzy. The circumstances are quite peculiar indeed. But perhaps there is a means of creating some order out of that confusion." Seeing Elizabeth's hopeful gaze, she leaned over and patted her hand, saying, "Your uncle has frequently to deal with problems that are quite complex. One lesson he learned, quite young he says, is to simplify - to get down to the basic problem."

"And the basic problem in this case is?"

"That is quite ridiculously simple, my dear." And fixing her niece with a firm look Mrs. Gardiner asked, "If you had met Mr. Darcy for the first time while you were visiting your friend, would you accept his offer of courtship?"

Elizabeth took but a few seconds to respond, "Of course!"

"There is no 'of course' about it, Lizzy. Why would you do so?"

"He is a reputable man, honourable, can support a family. If his manners are a little wanting, he apparently can please when comfortable with his company. And he is quite handsome," Elizabeth grinned at her aunt saying, "Which a young man should be if he is able." A pensive look returned to her face as she said, "And, if I must be honest, had I met him for the first time then, I would have recognized his attentions for what they were and made an effort to get to know him rather than ignoring him as I actually did. A courtship would allow me to know him better."

"So your answer tomorrow will be?"

"I will agree to a courtship, however...."

"However?"

"Oh, I was just considering that Jane and I are to leave for Longbourn tomorrow. I dread having to be courted publicly under Mama's gaze. She will be proclaiming a marriage within a week. Should I decide against him, I will have to come to live with you to escape her censure and lamentations." The cheeky grin she gave her aunt drew a commiserating smile from that lady who understood very well how Elizabeth's mother would react to a gentleman worth ten thousand a year courting one of her daughters. After a pause of some moments while they both considered the probable implications of a courtship being carried out under the eyes of a mother more than prepared to advance the match by whatever means available, if not necessarily suitable, Mrs. Gardiner made a suggestion.

"Lizzy, I know you wish to return to Longbourn but would you be agreeable to remaining with us for a fortnight or so after Jane leaves. Mr. Darcy could court you here." She thought for a few moments, "He would have to get your father's consent, of course. Perhaps he could ride to Longbourn the following day and see your father then."

The look of delight that crossed Elizabeth's countenance told her aunt all she needed to know and her expressions of gratitude were heartfelt, "Oh! That would be perfect. I am sure that a fortnight or so will permit me to determine if I wish the courtship to proceed further." She grew thoughtful once more before continuing, "I believe we must have some of the courtship at Longbourn. I must learn if he can accept - tolerate - my family and my neighbours. I cannot separate myself from them nor would I wish to do so."

Her aunt warned, "Your mother's scheming will take place, you know."

"True, true. But I shall, I believe, be more secure in my opinion by then. If I think it unlikely I would accept an offer of marriage, I would end the courtship before I returned to Longbourn."

Elizabeth's impatience to acquaint Jane with what had happened could no longer be overcome; and at length resolving to suppress every particular in which her sister was concerned, and preparing her to be surprised, she related to her that evening, as they prepared for sleep, the chief of the scenes between Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam and herself.

She spoke of the Colonel's revelations concerning George Wickham which by now she could recall with little effort. What a stroke was this for poor Jane! Who would willingly have gone through the world without believing that so much wickedness existed in the whole race of mankind, as was here collected in one individual. Nor was Darcy's vindication, though grateful to her feelings, capable of consoling her for such a discovery. Most earnestly did she labour to prove the probability of error, and seek to clear one without involving the other.

"This will not do," said Elizabeth. "As I said to Charlotte not many days past, you never will be able to make both of them good for anything. Take your choice, but you must be satisfied with only one. There is but such a quantity of merit between them; just enough to make one good sort of man; and of late it has been shifting about pretty much. For my part, I am inclined to believe it all Mr. Darcy's, but you shall do as you choose."

It was some time, however, before a smile could be extorted from Jane.

"I do not know when I have been more shocked," said she. "Wickham so very bad! It is almost past belief. And poor Mr. Darcy! Dear Lizzy, only consider what he must have suffered at his hands and being acquainted with the knowledge of your ill opinion too! And having to relate such a thing of his sister! It is really too distressing. I am sure you must feel it so."

"Oh no! My regret and compassion are all done away by seeing you so full of both. I know you will do him such ample justice, that I am growing every moment more unconcerned and indifferent. Your profusion makes me easy; and if you lament over him much longer, my heart will be as light as a feather."

"Poor Wickham; there is such an expression of goodness in his countenance! Such an openness and gentleness in his manner."

"There certainly was some great mismanagement in the education of those two young men. One has got all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it."

"I never thought Mr. Darcy so deficient in the appearance of it as you used to do."

"And yet I meant to be uncommonly clever in taking so decided a dislike to him, without any reason. It is such a spur to one's genius, such an opening for wit to have a dislike of that kind. One may be continually abusive without saying anything just; but one cannot be always laughing at a man without now and then stumbling on something witty."

"Lizzy when you first listened to Colonel Fitzwilliam, I am sure you could not treat the matter as you do now."

"Indeed I could not. I was uncomfortable enough. I was very uncomfortable, I may say unhappy. And with no one to speak to of what I felt, no Jane to comfort me and say that I had not been so very weak and vain and nonsensical as I knew I had! Oh! How I wanted you!"

"How unfortunate that you should have used such very strong expressions in speaking of Wickham to Colonel Fitzwilliam and to Mr. Darcy at the Netherfield Ball, for now they do appear wholly undeserved."

"Certainly! But the misfortune of speaking with bitterness is a most natural consequence of the prejudices I had been encouraging. On one point, I must act. I have been authorized by Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam to make known Mr. Wickham's character except insofar as it relates to Miss Darcy. I have written our father and informed him of Mr. Wickham's habits in respect of incurring debts and importuning young women. Colonel Fitzwilliam is, I understand, to do likewise with Colonel Forster. I intend, when such news has been made public, to endeavour to undeceive people as to the rest of his conduct. I may not be believed, since the general prejudice against Mr. Darcy is so violent, that it would be the death of half the good people in Meryton to attempt to place him in an amiable light. I may not be equal to it but I feel I must do what I can. While Wickham will soon be gone; and therefore it will not signify to anybody here what he really is, Mr. Darcy may return. I would not have his character besmirched by my connivance."

"Mr. Darcy may return?"

Elizabeth's blushes did not prevent her from replying, "As I informed our aunt, Mr. Darcy has asked to court me. I am to give him his answer tomorrow when he calls."

Jane interrupted, surprise quite evident in her voice and manner, "Do you expect to accept his offer then, Lizzy? I thought you quite detested the man?"

"Dearest Jane, in such cases as these, a good memory is unpardonable. I do not love the man, I do not, as yet, even like him very much but he is a much better man than I have previously given him credit to be and he has asked me for the chance to improve my opinion of him. I would be a very silly girl indeed to refuse such an opportunity."

Elizabeth regarded her sister carefully before continuing, "Our aunt has suggested that I remain here with them and allow the first few weeks of the courtship to take place here in London and away from Longbourn and our mother. You know her too well. She will have it about that I am to marry him as soon as she learns the news of a courtship. Should I refuse him, or even end the courtship, her lamentations about Mr. Collins will pale in comparison to those she then expresses. My days will be a misery. No! I must start here in London and, if I believe that I could accept an offer of marriage, only then will I return to Longbourn." She paused, "I must ask for your secrecy on this. I have a letter which I will ask you to give papa when you return tomorrow. It simply states that our aunt has asked me to remain with her for a few extra days to help with the children. I would ask that you say nothing more to anyone. This courtship will be conducted in secret here in London although I expect that Mr. Darcy will wish to speak with our father for his consent. It will not be a secret from him."

That Jane would be reluctant to conceal the courtship from their mother, Elizabeth knew, but since it was an act of concealment rather than an actual falsehood, she was sure that Jane could soothe her conscience, particularly since their father would know of it.

The tumult of Elizabeth's mind was allayed by this conversation. She had got rid of two of the secrets which had weighed on her, and was certain of a willing listener in Jane, whenever she might wish to talk again of them. But there was still something lurking unmentioned, of which prudence forbad the disclosure. She dared not relate Mr. Darcy's revelations, nor explain to her sister how sincerely she had been valued by his friend. Here was knowledge in which no one could partake; and she was sensible that nothing less than a perfect understanding between the parties could justify her in throwing off this last encumbrance of mystery. "And then," said she, "if that very improbable event should ever take place, I shall merely be able to tell what Bingley may tell in a much more agreeable manner himself. The liberty of communication cannot be mine till it has lost all its value!"

She was now somewhat at leisure to observe the real state of her sister's spirits. Jane was not happy. She still cherished a very tender affection for Bingley. Having never even fancied herself in love before, her regard had all the warmth of first attachment, and, from her age and disposition, greater steadiness than first attachments often boast; and so fervently did she value his remembrance, and prefer him to every other man, that all her good sense, and all her attention to the feelings of her friends, were requisite to check the indulgence of those regrets which must have been injurious to her own health and their tranquility.[/size]

Chapter 8 - A Decision Rendered

Posted on 2015-05-06

The next day arrived, rather cold, blustery and rainy which prevented any thoughts of venturing out of doors for a walk. Jane and Maria's departure was effected after breakfast, the weather not proving to be a deterrent to travelling by coach. Jane was dispatched with strict orders from her sister to write as to how their father had acted in respect of Mr. Wickham. Elizabeth had no expectation of her father writing to her particularly, since he expected her to accompany Jane. With their departure, Elizabeth was thrown upon her own resources and given that she had arrived at a decision, Elizabeth was eager to inform Mr. Darcy of it; the forced inactivity - physical at least - was trying her patience. Finally her aunt, exasperated undoubtedly by her niece's restlessness, banished her to Mr. Gardiner's study where she would, as Mrs. Gardiner put it, 'be in nobody's way there'. Fortunately for Mr. Gardiner, he had already left for his warehouse and the intrusion of a restless, fidgety niece into his private room could not be of any concern. Why she was so restless, Elizabeth could hardly answer, but there it was, and she found herself forced to feign an interest in a novel, although she finished barely two chapters in the several hours she spent reading.

At last, early in the afternoon, she took up a station with her aunt in the sitting room to await Mr. Darcy. A scant quarter hour later, the sound of a carriage stopping in front of the house was heard and, shortly thereafter, Mr. Darcy was shown into the room. It took but a single look to see that the gentleman was decidedly uncomfortable - his efforts at masking his uncertainty quite fruitless - and, while he attempted to converse easily with both Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth, his gaze was regularly drawn to Elizabeth as though he wished to read her answer upon her countenance. Elizabeth made such efforts as she could to set him at ease and reduce his discomfort but it was clear that such efforts were meeting with small success.

Mrs. Gardiner at last rose from her chair, saying, "I believe you both desire a private conversation. I will be in the room across the hall and the door to this room will be left open. Your privacy here is assured as all my servants have been instructed to remain downstairs."

Upon Mrs. Gardiner leaving the room, Elizabeth could not resist teasing Darcy, "You look overset, Mr. Darcy. Surely you are not uncertain of my answer?"

The half smile that she wore and her gentle tease - he believed he knew her well enough to know she would not tease him so if she meant to refuse him - drew a bark of laughter from him; she could see his body and features visibly relax, before he replied, "Miss Bennet, I was never more uncertain about anything when I entered this room. I admit to feeling more hopeful now."

"And so you may be - quite hopeful, in fact. I have decided to accept your offer of a courtship." She could not but be pleased by the happiness she could read on his countenance - it was not that he wore a broad smile but his eyes seemed to warm as he gazed at her. She held up a hand to restrain him, as he appeared about to take her hands in his own, saying, "There are some conditions I must attach to my acceptance. I do not think them particularly onerous but you must decide for yourself."

"And these conditions are?" A trace of uncertainty had returned as he awaited her answer.

"I am sure you are aware that my cousin, Mr. Collins, made me an offer of marriage last November - your aunt must have spoken of it to you, I am sure - and not too kindly, I would hazard. I refused the offer, against my mother's wishes, but was supported in it by my father. Nonetheless, my mother spoke warmly of my disregarding her wishes for months afterwards." She looked calmly at Darcy, "I wish to keep our courtship private for the first fortnight or so; and my aunt has kindly offered to host me here for that time."

Darcy considered her suggestion, "By private, I assume that your mother would not be informed. I do feel bound by honour to obtain your father's consent. Will he be in agreement with this condition?"

"I believe so. I realized that you would need his consent and thought to have you take a letter from me for him. I sent a note to him with Jane, who returned to Longbourn this morning, as to why I did not return - as well saying my aunt wished for my help with the children. If my conditions are acceptable to you, I will send another outlining the reason why I have accepted the offer. It will, I believe, be necessary since my feelings towards you were quite negative when last I spoke with my father."

Darcy nodded before asking another question, "Why only a fortnight here? Do you expect to arrive at a decision so soon?"

Elizabeth rose from her seat and began to pace the room for several minutes before turning to face him, "I felt that a fortnight would allow us both to reach a conclusion and decide whether we want the courtship to proceed further." Her gaze now commanded his attention, "I believe...I know that my station in life is much inferior to yours. I have come to believe that you have resolved your uncertainties about the difference, but I admit to a concern that....further reflection may lead you to regret an attachment. That you may lose respect for me is something I could not bear. Should you feel this likely, I would hope for you to withdraw from the courtship."

Darcy was speechless for almost a minute before finally saying, "I had quite resolved all those matters while I was at Rosings and my sojourn here in Town has quite fixed the matter in my mind. I have never sought to be much in society and would much prefer to spend my life at Pemberley - a few weeks in London would satisfy my cravings for its pleasures. And with respect to my friends, well...to put it simply, if a friend cannot accept my wife, he is cannot be counted amongst my friends. I fear you cannot hope to escape this way, Miss Bennet." His grin was surprisingly cheerful, "And what is the decision you face?"

"I have said I do not know you. If we continue the courtship at Longbourn, I will have come to view a possible offer of marriage more favourably; however," and her smile disappeared, "I expect to bring to Longbourn the Mr. Darcy that I have come to appreciate lately." Then her grin returned, "And you shall have the pleasure of my mother's solicitous behaviour. She will, I assure you, be most favourably impressed by your ten thousand a year and quite, quite attentive."

Darcy nodded, "I consent to these conditions quite readily, Miss Bennet. Since this courtship is to be conducted under your uncle's protection, I believe I should speak to him as soon as may be."

Mrs. Gardiner was applied to and, after extending her congratulations to them both, invited Mr. Darcy to dine with them that evening, an invitation which he was quick to accept and, indeed, requested permission to include his sister so that he might introduce her to Elizabeth. The surprise of such an application was great indeed; it was too great for her to know in what manner she acceded to it. She immediately felt that whatever desire Miss Darcy felt of being acquainted with her must be the work of her brother; and without looking further into the matter, decided it was satisfactory. Elizabeth was not altogether comfortable - that was impossible; but she was flattered and pleased. His wish of introducing his sister to her was a compliment of the highest kind. It also, she realized as she considered it further after his departure, improved, if only slightly, her opinion of Mr. Darcy himself.

Mr. Darcy remained but a short while longer, claiming the need to return home to apprise his sister of their engagement to dine. Elizabeth saw him to the door and could not help but be pleased by his courteous manner as he bowed over her hand when he took his leave. She rather thought she might enjoy this courtship, although she told herself firmly that she had disliked the gentleman in the past - a circumstance based on his behaviour then - and, if she could not say she liked him now, at least she did not dislike him so severely as in the past. Pushing such thoughts aside, she removed herself to her room to write her father who believed her quite opposed to Mr. Darcy - to hold him in serious dislike. To explain the dramatic shift in her feelings was not something to be undertaken easily. Fortunately, her deliberations with her aunt had forced her to review her acquaintance with Mr. Darcy and that experience made the task of communicating the change less onerous. She was honest with her father, she did not profess an attachment to her suitor but focused on identifying those areas from which the misunderstandings arose - including his role in separating her sister and Mr. Bingley. It took four full sheets of paper to express her thoughts and she could only hope her father would credit her reasons for accepting the courtship.

Mr. Gardiner had, when apprised that Mr. Darcy and his sister were to be guests for dinner, arrived home somewhat earlier than was his wont in order to greet them; of particular interest, of course, was the gentleman who was to court his favourite niece. About an hour before dinner, Miss Darcy and her brother appeared, and this formidable introduction took place. With astonishment did Elizabeth see that her new acquaintance was at least as much embarrassed as herself. From Mr. Wickham she had heard that Miss Darcy was exceedingly proud; but the observation of but a very few minutes convinced her that she was only exceedingly shy. She found it difficult to obtain even a word from her beyond a monosyllable and cast a fulminating thought in Mr. Wickham's direction.

Miss Darcy was tall, and on a larger scale than Elizabeth; and, though little more than sixteen, her figure was formed, and her appearance womanly and graceful. She was less handsome than her brother, but there was sense and good humour in her face, and her manners were perfectly unassuming and gentle. Elizabeth, who had expected to find in her as acute and unembarrassed an observer as ever Mr. Darcy had been, was much relieved by discerning such different feelings.

Very shortly after they were introduced, Elizabeth had led Miss Darcy to a settee where they ensconced themselves comfortably and she made every effort to engage her conversation. It proved a somewhat difficult task as Miss Darcy's shyness limited her to the very briefest of answers. It was not until the subject touched on music and her studies that she so far lost her reserve as to speak entire sentences complete and, within the half hour, had begun to describe her favourite places at her home - Pemberley. As Miss Darcy's comfort with Elizabeth increased, she allowed herself the liberty of asking Elizabeth about her home and its environs; and, by the time they were called to dinner, she was speaking with slightly more ease of her time at school and the girls she had met there. With some embarrassment, she admitted that she had become friendly with only two girls with whom she maintained an acquaintance via correspondence since they were separated by such distance as to preclude an easy exchange of visits. She freely admitted that she found herself reluctant to enter into an acquaintance with some young women, who were desirous of doing so, because it had become quickly obvious that the presence of her brother was the chief attraction for them. Elizabeth found herself expressing sympathy with her saying, "It seems that there is more than just one Miss Bingley."

Miss Darcy looked embarrassed as she said, "Miss Bingley is very fulsome with her praise. I sometimes think she values my accomplishments too highly."

"I dare say she does. I believe she considers you one of the most accomplished ladies of her acquaintance." Elizabeth's smile was meant to reassure Miss Darcy but her embarrassment deepened and she whispered, "I suspect I would be less valued if my brother was less worthy."

Elizabeth patted her hand and said, "Perhaps in the mind of Miss Bingley, but in no else's I am sure. Your brother speaks very highly of you and I trust his opinion. I should very much like to hear you play."

"My brother says that nothing gave him greater pleasure than to listen to you sing and play."

Elizabeth smiled and teased, "I fear he praises me too highly, undoubtedly for some mischievous purpose of his own."

Miss Darcy's concern was immediate, "Oh no. My brother never exaggerates, although I believe he is too kind to me."

"A perfect older brother then! I could wish I had a brother but have only four sisters."

Elizabeth could not miss the wistfulness in Miss Darcy's expression as she replied, "I could wish that I had a sister."

"Well, when your brother marries, he shall provide you with one."

Miss Darcy looked down at her hands and murmured, "I hope that I do not have to wait too long."

Elizabeth could think of no response to this statement and purposefully changed the subject and soon had engaged Miss Darcy in a discussion of their favourite composers - a subject which they were to carry into the dinner itself.

It was not often that Elizabeth could turn her eyes on Mr. Darcy himself who was being ably entertained by her aunt and uncle; but, whenever she did catch a glimpse, she saw an expression of general complaisance; and, in all that he said, she heard an accent so far removed from hauteur or disdain of his companions, as to convince her that the improvement of manners which she had so lately witnessed, however temporary its existence might prove, had at least outlived one day. When she saw him thus, seeking the acquaintance and courting the good opinion of people, with whom any intercourse a few months ago would have been a disgrace; when she saw him thus civil, not only to herself, but to the very relations whom he had openly disdained, and recollected his past behaviour in Hertfordshire, the difference, the change was so great, and struck so forcibly on her mind, that she could hardly restrain her astonishment from being visible. Never, even in the company of his dear friends at Netherfield, or his dignified relations at Rosings, had she seen him so desirous to please, so free from self-consequence or unbending reserve, as now, when no importance could result from the success of his endeavours, and when even the acquaintance of those to whom his attentions were addressed, were it known, would draw down the ridicule and censure of the ladies both of Netherfield and Rosings. It was consoling that he should know she had some relations for whom there was no need to blush. She listened most attentively to all that passed between them, and gloried in every expression, every sentence of her aunt and uncle, which marked their intelligence, their taste, or their good manners.

While the Gardiners usually dined in company with their oldest children - even when their nieces were visiting - tonight they had chosen to have them eat in the nursery and thus the company around the dinner table was a congenial blend of intelligence, good humour and amiability such as to produce lively and interesting conversation. Miss Darcy found herself sitting at Mrs. Gardiner's right hand with Elizabeth beside her while Mr. Darcy sat to Mrs. Gardiner's left. That lady was able to revisit with Mr. Darcy the subject of Lambton and her upbringing there and if, between them, they were unable to exhaust their descriptions of Derbyshire and environs of Pemberley, it was not from want of trying. Their discussion was so animated as to draw Miss Darcy into it and led her to ask whether Mrs. Gardiner had met either of her parents. That lady was able to satisfy her only slightly, saying that Mr. and Mrs. Darcy had come but rarely to Lambton but that her father had occasion to meet them both as he was the rector for the Lambton parish. She did recall visiting Pemberley once, as a young girl - the occasion being Miss Darcy's christening. She thought she remembered seeing Miss Darcy's brother on that occasion but would not have recognized him now since he had grown so tall - leaning over to Miss Darcy, she whispered, "and handsome." Whether Mr. Darcy heard that comment, Elizabeth could not be sure, although his faint blush suggested he had.

The dinner was one of the most pleasant that Elizabeth could recollect and she was beginning to seriously question the basis for her former dislike of Mr. Darcy. When they rose from the table, Mr. Gardiner invited Darcy into his study for a glass of port and, Elizabeth had no doubt, a discussion of the possible rules of propriety that would govern their courtship. Elizabeth knew that her aunt and uncle would not be as blatant as her mother in allowing a courting couple unchaperoned privacy, although they would ensure the couple opportunities to converse privately.

While they waited for the gentlemen to return, Elizabeth and Miss Darcy continued their easy conversation, ably assisted by Mrs. Gardiner; and, finally, after much persuasion, Miss Darcy was encouraged to play a few pieces with Elizabeth turning the pages for her. She was half finished her second piece when Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Darcy returned and they greeted her efforts with vigorous applause. Induced to play a third selection, she agreed only on condition that Elizabeth also perform - and her performance was greeted with equal enthusiasm which, even if prompted by the regard of one of her listeners, was no less appreciated by her.

A few minutes before the Darcys left, Darcy indicated his plans to ride to Longbourn in the morning to speak with Mr. Bennet and his expectations that he would return by the middle of the afternoon. An invitation to tea for that afternoon was extended by Miss Darcy to Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner which those ladies were pleased to accept. Darcy also expressed a desire to meet with the Gardiners and Elizabeth to discuss his meeting with Mr. Bennet and suggested that Mr. Gardiner join them at his home for dinner. The Gardiners being amenable to these arrangements, the Darcys took their leave, albeit not before Elizabeth had given Darcy a letter to deliver to her father when they met.

The observations of her aunt and uncle began shortly after the Darcys left; and each of them pronounced him to be infinitely superior to anything they had expected. "He is perfectly well-behaved, polite and unassuming," said her uncle.

"There is something a little stately in him, to be sure," replied her aunt; "but it is confined to his air, and is not unbecoming. I can now say that though some people may call him proud, I have seen nothing of it."

"I was never more surprised than by his behaviour to us. It was more than civil - it was attentive - although there is obviously a reason for such behaviour. Nonetheless, I find it hard to believe he was so disagreeable when in Hertfordshire. On the contrary, there is something of dignity in his countenance that would not give one an unfavourable idea of his heart."

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner smiled with delight at Elizabeth's blushes and she found it advisable to remove to her bedroom to consider all that had happened that evening.

Chapter 9 - Mr. Bennet has a Visitor

The following day saw the Darcy carriage arrive at the Gardiner residence shortly after two in the afternoon to transport Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth to the Darcy house. It was a tall, four stories building on Curzon Street in the more exclusive part of London, considerably larger than the Gardiner home and Elizabeth was quick to note its easy access to Hyde Park - a matter of a few minutes' walk to enter. Greeted by the butler, they were quickly led to join Miss Darcy in her private sitting room. Elizabeth saw with admiration that the furniture was suitable to the fortune of the proprietor and that it was neither gaudy nor uselessly fine, with less of splendour and more real elegance than the furniture of Rosings. "And of this place," thought she, "I might be mistress! With these rooms I might be familiar! I may rejoice in them as my own and welcome to them as visitors my aunt and uncle."

Before these thoughts could overwhelm her, they were ushered into the room where Miss Darcy was sitting with a lady with whom she lived in London. Georgiana's reception of them was very civil; but attended with all that embarrassment which, though proceeding from shyness and the fear of doing wrong, would easily give to those who felt themselves inferior the belief of her being proud and reserved. Mrs. Gardiner and her niece, however, did her justice, and pitied her.

On their being seated, a pause, awkward as such pauses must always be, succeeded for a few moments. It was first broken by Mrs. Annesley, a genteel, agreeable looking woman, whose endeavour to introduce some kind of discourse proved her to be truly well bred and between her and Mrs. Gardiner, with occasional help from Elizabeth, the conversation was carried on. Miss Darcy looked as if she wished for courage enough to join in it; and sometimes did venture a short sentence, when there was least danger of its being heard. Gradually the ease with which she had conversed while visiting the Gardiners returned and she was able to claim a larger share of the conversation.

Elizabeth expected every moment that Mr. Darcy would enter the room. Whether she wished or feared, she could scarcely determine, although she knew it unlikely he would have returned already from Longbourn. The next variation which their visit afforded was produced by the entrance of servants with cold meat, cake, and a variety of all the finest fruits in season; but this did not take place till after many a significant look and smile from Mrs. Annesley had been given to Miss Darcy, to remind her of her post. There was now employment for the whole party; for though they could not all talk, they could all eat; and the beautiful pyramids of nectarines and other fruit soon collected them round the table.

Upon satisfying their hunger, a tour of the house was offered and immediately accepted and, if Elizabeth could remember few details of most of the rooms they visited, she saw nothing to contradict her initial impression as to the furniture and furnishings. The rooms were large and well proportioned and the furniture and furnishings appropriate to each. Of two rooms she took particular pleasure; Mr. Darcy's study was suitably furnished but her eye was caught first by the quantity of bookshelves that lined the room but more impressive were several pictures which portrayed the Darcy manor - Pemberley, she was informed - from different prospects. Having seen them all, she could not choose a favourite although she kept returning to one that seemed to have been painted from a height overlooking the front of the house. Miss Darcy smiled at such behaviour saying that the picture portrayed the view that visitors encountered when they first saw Pemberley. That it was a favourite of hers and her brother she admitted, stating that her brother had it commissioned so as to remind him of their home when he was forced to come to London.

"So your brother prefers the country to London, then?" asked Elizabeth.

"Oh yes. We both feel more comfortable, more at home there. I doubt my brother would stay much in London at all." Elizabeth had little time to consider such thoughts before Miss Darcy led her into the library; several times larger than her father's study, it contained such a number of books that Elizabeth found herself drifting down one side of the room, her fingers grazing the spines of the books contained on the shelves. A pair of deep chairs was comfortably placed in front of the fireplace and others situated by windows which she found overlooked the grounds of the house. The prospect from each window was most appealing and Elizabeth could, with very little trouble, imagine herself comfortably ensconced in a chair with a book to read and a view to admire. She was only recalled to her company by her aunt's teasing comment, "I fear we will not be able to remove Lizzy from this room."

Miss Darcy stepped up beside Elizabeth as she gazed out the window at the grounds below, "It is delightful in the spring, is it not. We are not here too often at this time of the year."

At Elizabeth's questioning glance, Miss Darcy continued, "Oh, I meant that usually my brother wishes to return to Pemberley after visiting my aunt. While the need to oversee the work of the estate is partially responsible, I find that Pemberley is too beautiful in the spring to want to be anywhere else. My brother, I believe, is of a like mind."

Elizabeth nodded in agreement, "I can well believe that. After a long winter, I relish being able to venture out on the paths around my home. I love to visit my aunt and uncle here in town," and she gave a grateful smile to Mrs. Gardiner, "but I admit to feeling most at home in the country."

Conversation continued in an amiable fashion as they returned to Miss Darcy's sitting room where a tea service with biscuits and cakes was awaiting them. The two ladies remained for another hour cheerfully talking, with Mrs. Gardiner engaging Miss Darcy's interest by speaking of the years she lived in Lambton, and Elizabeth of her life with four sisters. As they conversed, Miss Darcy was increasingly able to contribute to the conversation with memories of Pemberley and her activities there. Finally, Mrs. Gardiner felt that she and Elizabeth must return home to refresh themselves and prepare to dine with the Darcys that evening. That she also wished to spend some time with her children, she freely admitted; and was as delighted and proud as a mother can be when Miss Darcy expressed an interest in meeting them. A visit several days hence to Gracechurch Street was planned, with Elizabeth and Miss Darcy to accompany the children and their nurse to the nearby park. Elizabeth hoped that Mr. Darcy would accompany them as well and tentatively suggested as much to Miss Darcy who smiled and said she thought it quite likely.

When the Gardiners and Elizabeth returned later that evening to dine with Mr. and Miss Darcy, that gentleman welcomed them in the drawing room saying, "Georgiana is still upstairs. I asked her to give us some time before dining to discuss my meeting with Elizabeth's father. I hope that is agreeable to you."

Upon finding that this was agreeable to all, he drew Elizabeth to sit in a chair next to his own while the Gardiners settled on the settee facing them. Mr. Darcy's manner was relaxed and Elizabeth could discern no sign of concern or worry. His first words dispelled any such worries she held.

"The meeting went quite well although I admit that it was uncomfortable at the beginning. I spent over an hour with your father, Elizabeth, and we parted, I believe, on amicable terms. I have his consent for the courtship - but perhaps I am getting ahead of myself. I should tell you of our meeting as it unfolded." As Darcy spoke he gradually relaxed, leaned back in his armchair, his eyes half-closed while he relived his experience such that his words contained an immediacy that his listeners readily understood.

The day being fine, he had chosen to ride to Longbourn, expecting that doing so would allow him to return to London by mid-afternoon and perhaps encounter Elizabeth while she and her aunt were taking tea with Georgiana. His horse welcomed the exercise and they covered the twenty-four miles in excellent time. Arriving at Longbourn, he had assigned his horse to a groom who had quickly made an appearance and, after being welcomed into the house, handed his card to the housekeeper say, "Mr. Darcy to see Mr. Bennet."

The two gentlemen talked for a few more minutes before Mr. Bennet, after extending an invitation to stay for tea which was refused due to a need to return to London as quickly as possible, showed Darcy to the front door. They both could see Mrs. Bennet hovering and Darcy knew that she would besiege Mr. Bennet with questions as to why he had been closeted with him for over an hour. Since the matter of the courtship could not be disclosed, he did not envy Mr. Bennet the task of dissembling that lay ahead.

"... and the return journey was not at all tedious, since I carried the news that our courtship was approved and that measures to constrain Wickham were in place." Darcy's satisfaction was apparent to all his listeners.

Elizabeth looked at Darcy coolly as she said, "I will have you explain the insult at the Assembly, Mr. Darcy but not tonight." A slight smile crossed her lips as she said, "And did you read my letter to my father?"

"Not yet!"

"Yet?"

"He gave it to me to read and I propose to do so tonight." The upturn of the corner of his lips was the only sign that he recognized her discomposure at that thought. Further discussion was prevented by the announcement from the housekeeper, Mrs. Gray, that dinner was ready. Darcy escorted Elizabeth to the dining room where Georgiana awaited them. Apprised of the news that Mr. Bennet had consented to the courtship, her pleasure was obvious to them all and the hug in which she enfolded Elizabeth both warmed and surprised her - and Darcy as well since such demonstrative behaviour was uncharacteristic of his sister. The evening passed as such evenings usually do when the company is congenial and of a mind to enjoy themselves.

Chapter 10 - A Courtship Begins

Posted on 2015-05-10

Mr. Darcy was not to visit until after luncheon and her aunt had decreed that the children were not to disturb their 'Cousin Lizzy', which afforded Elizabeth both time and opportunity to reflect upon Mr. Darcy who, she realized, had been dominating her thoughts for some time; but, until her father's consent to the courtship had been given, she had not allowed herself to consider him as a possible husband. That much of her comprehension of Mr. Darcy's character had been based on mistakes and misunderstandings had been known to her for some weeks. Once the mortification inherent on recognizing those errors on her own part had passed, she had not allowed herself to wonder at her visceral dislike of Mr. Darcy that had taken hold of her for so many months. She was not sure why this feeling should exist and perhaps she had not been ready to look at the reasons behind it. She now realized that this could not continue and that she would have to address it, for once and for all.

She believed that the source was now more easily determined; She had been attracted to Mr. Darcy almost immediately - how could a woman not be attracted to such a handsome man - but he had insulted her before their acquaintance had even been established - dismissing her as unworthy, as 'not handsome enough to tempt him'. She recognized the blow to her vanity but had not thought herself so prejudiced as to not allow him to repair the damage - despite evidence, obvious to her now, that his every subsequent action of his had been an attempt to do so - at least in part. His conversations at Netherfield, his repeated attempts to dance with her - of which she had agreed only to the last and then spent chastising him - and his seeking her out to walk with her at Hunsford, were all obvious signs - not that she could see them then - of his interest and a repudiation of his slighting comment - even if that had not been his conscious purpose. She was resolved to put the incident behind her - although she thought it might prove useful should the opportunity arise, to tease Mr. Darcy about it. It was, however, a puzzle to her - why would a man, who otherwise behaved with civility, say something so abominably rude? She thought she was owed an explanation at the very least.

She searched her memory for other aspects of his dealings with her and only the inconsistency of his behaviour puzzled her. The same man who would ask her to dance three times also ignored her presence - beyond the coldest of civil greetings - when they shared the Netherfield library for a full half hour. His visits to the parsonage were equally puzzling. To sit for the duration of a visit without engaging in conversation beyond the barest and briefest of commonplace civilities was unfathomable to her. She had interpreted it as indicative of his disdain and disapproval. Was it something else entirely? Another question she would have to ask or puzzle out.

Then there was the matter of his arrogance and pride. His decision to involve himself in the business of her sister and his friend was surely proof of that arrogance. But what was arrogance but an insulting way of thinking or behaving that comes from believing that you are better, smarter, or more important than other people? Of this, she could find no shortage of proof. Mr. Darcy was clearly much more intelligent than most of those who surrounded him. His importance, she could not deny since his estate and birth would surely support such a feeling and, since he was assiduous in his management of that estate and other business, it was difficult to argue that he was not important. That he was somehow better than those with whom he was required to associate was more questionable. Certainly, society would deem him to be so and, if such a judgement were based solely on his personal merits, she would not fault it. That he felt no compunction on displaying that he viewed those around him as inferior, certainly contributed to her dislike; but, when she considered it further, she remembered that it was principally at the Assembly that the worst of his behaviour was displayed. In other engagements that he attended, he had been withdrawn and certainly not sociable but had been civil for the most part. Was there some reason that could explain his behaviour that one evening?

As she considered the matter further, she remembered his words when they were engaged in a heated discussion at Netherfield 'But pride - where there is a real superiority of mind - pride will always be under good regulation.' The pomposity of that statement - and the obvious circular reasoning since to claim such superiority was, in effect, an expression of pride - she found as amusing now, as then. Nonetheless, there was an element of truth contained therein, no matter how impolitic it was to have uttered it. Mr. Darcy did have a good regulation of mind - his judgement was sought and trusted by others - and he was obviously intelligent and thoughtful. He had cause to be confident in his judgement; however, he was fallible - as the matter of Jane and Bingley showed - and perhaps that error would cause him to be more cautious - and less arrogant - in the future. It was the way in which he conducted himself - his haughty manner - that offended and yet, he had greeted her aunt and uncle with perfect civility and every evidence of enjoying their company. Was he aware of how he was viewed? Or did his recent behaviour indicate an awareness of how uncivil he had been? She could not know for certain but the important question was whether this change - this improvement - was of a permanent nature.

If it was, then Mr. Darcy might make a most agreeable husband. As she considered this further, she remembered Charlotte's words - Mr. Darcy had, at the young age of two and twenty - come into the full management of a large estate upon the death of his father. The responsibilities inherent upon this must have been both a great burden and an equally great worry. She could not encompass all of the concerns that he faced but her knowledge of Longbourn and the responsibilities her father discharged - albeit poorly - were, she suspected, small in comparison to those faced by Mr. Darcy. As well, if she remembered correctly, that he had lost the service of a trusted steward scant months after the death of his father. He, perforce, was required to undertake responsibility for his estate without the guidance of a trusted steward. Surely a most demanding and worrisome undertaking; and yet, not five years later, his advice on running an estate was sought by Mr. Bingley who had considered acquiring an estate and also by his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It could not but speak well for his abilities and dedication to such responsibilities.

When she remembered that, at the time he took on the management of his estate, he was also charged with the guardianship and more importantly, the raising of a ten year old sister - a task for which she was sure he thought himself totally unfitted and which, from her brief acquaintance with Miss Darcy, she believed him to have done particularly well - she could not but feel admiration. That he had been deceived by someone to whom he had entrusted Miss Darcy could not be held to his account - although, given his sense of responsibility, she thought he indeed would do so - and then betrayed by a childhood friend, so lost to a sense of decency as to importune a fifteen year old girl, the daughter of a man whom he professed to honour - could in no way diminished his success with Miss Darcy who, Elizabeth was sure, regarded her brother with affection and esteem. If he could act so carefully and thoughtfully with a sister, would he not also extend the same care, consideration and protection to a wife and children? This was no small concern for Elizabeth when she regarded her own family.

Had Elizabeth's opinions been all drawn from her own family, she could not have formed a very pleasing picture of conjugal felicity or domestic comfort. Her father, captivated by youth and beauty, and that appearance of good humour which youth and beauty generally give, had married a woman whose weak understanding and illiberal mind had, very early in their marriage, put an end to all real affection for her. Respect, esteem, and confidence had vanished forever; and all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown. But her father was not of a disposition to seek comfort, for the disappointment which his own imprudence had brought on, in any of those pleasures which too often console the unfortunate for their folly or their vice. He was fond of the country and of books; and from these tastes arose his principal enjoyments. To his wife he was very little otherwise indebted, than as her ignorance and folly had contributed to his amusement. This is not the sort of happiness which a man would in general wish to owe to his wife; but where other powers of entertainment are wanting, the true philosopher will derive benefit from such as are given.

Elizabeth, however, had never been blind to the impropriety of her father's behaviour as a husband. She had always seen it with pain; but respecting his abilities, and while grateful for his affectionate treatment of herself, she endeavoured to forget what she could not overlook, and to banish from her thoughts that continual breach of conjugal obligation and decorum which, in exposing his wife to the contempt of her own children, was so highly reprehensible. But she had never felt so strongly as now the disadvantages which must attend the children of so unsuitable a marriage, nor ever been so fully aware of the evils arising from so ill-judged a direction of talents; talents which, when rightly used, might at least have preserved the respectability of his daughters, even if incapable of enlarging the mind of his wife. She realized that she wanted more and better from the man she chose as her husband. She was not so foolish as to expect that her husband would be without fault; but she was determined that he would have a preponderance of those characteristics likely to ensure felicity and respect in marriage. That she and her husband should respect each the other; that he would provide her with a secure and loving environment in which to bear and raise their children, were all essential. She was determined not to settle for less.

These deliberations had consumed much of her morning and she did not repine when Darcy did not arrive at Gracechurch Street until shortly after luncheon. While Elizabeth had found herself regretting that he would not call after breakfast, her need for time to reflect on their courtship was important to her. Besides, he had indicated the evening before that business matters would occupy his time for several hours every day and that, if he could dispose of them early in the day, he would then be able to attend her for the remainder. She could not disagree with this decision and, when she considered it more carefully, she was pleased that he was so resolute in conducting his business affairs. When she compared his attitude to that of her father, who was somewhat indolent in such matters, she could not feel that the comparison flattered her father. Suddenly Elizabeth remembered the conversation between Miss Bingley and Mr. Darcy when she stayed at Netherfield to nurse Jane.

"How many letters you must have occasion to write in the course of a year - letters of business too! How odious I should think them!"

"It is fortunate, then, that they fall to my lot instead of to yours."

She realized that, even when visiting his friend, he had attended to business.

When Darcy was shown into the room, he found her sitting on the floor and playing with her cousins - two girls of six and eight years and two younger boys - in the sitting room. Slightly discomposed to be found in such a position - although it did not appear that Mr. Darcy was anything but charmed by the sight - she rose to curtsey and introduce her cousins. Since the afternoon was warm and sunny, Darcy and Elizabeth accompanied the children and their nurse on a visit to the neighbouring park.

Despite his desire to walk with Elizabeth on his arm, Darcy found himself escorting Miss Gardiner - named for her grandmother, Margaret - on one elbow and Miss Ellen Gardiner on the other. If he was dismayed at the prospect, he hid it well and was gravely solicitous to both girls as he escorted them. Elizabeth's hands had quickly been usurped by her youngest cousins who alternately skipped, hopped and chattered unceasingly as they attempted to hurry her to the park. Her apologetic look at him was met with a small smile and a quiet, "Do not concern yourself, Miss Bennet. I am not unfamiliar with young ladies." Turning to her cousins, "And I am particularly pleased to have made the acquaintance of these two fine young ladies." which produced a most charming blush on the part of Miss Gardiner and a soft chuckle from Elizabeth.

Once they reached the park, the two youngest Gardiners quickly dropped Elizabeth's hands and, pursued by their governess, scampered away accompanied willingly by Miss Ellen and somewhat reluctantly by Miss Gardiner who had been charged with assisting in controlling her brothers by both her mother and governess. Darcy was not slow to offer his arm to Elizabeth and she was not reluctant to accept it. They walked in a comfortable silence for a short distance before Darcy spoke, "I like your cousins. They are a lively bunch. Your Cousin Margaret reminds me a little of Georgiana - quiet and rather shy, perhaps."

"Margaret is very much like Jane and Georgiana. My aunt hopes that when she goes to school in a year or so, she will become more comfortable around people she does not know." Elizabeth was quiet for a few seconds and, as Mr. Darcy did not seem inclined to pursue that topic and indeed appeared to be in a contemplative mood himself, wondered if it would be an opportune time to start seeking answers to the questions that her morning's contemplations had raised but decided to explore the subject of his current thoughtfulness. Before she could do so, however, he spoke rather tentatively, "I believe, Miss Bennet, I owe you an apology - perhaps several since I suspect I committed a number of offences."

Elizabeth simply gazed at him, rather surprised that he would apologize for anything, before chastising herself for such an unkind reaction. 'When am I ever going to give this man his due?'

She realized that Darcy had noted her surprise and she hoped that he was not aware of the reason for it. "Yes, indeed we spoke of it last night when I was recounting my meeting with your father. I feel I must make my apology for those most insulting words that I spoke at the Assembly where we first met."

"Actually, Mr. Darcy, I do not believe we had met. If I remember correctly, you refused the acquaintance."

"Your memory is, unfortunately, all too good. It was perhaps the most uncivil and insulting thing I can remember doing. If I had known you had heard it - that anyone had heard it - I doubt I would have the fortitude to show my face there again."

"Are you apologizing for the action, Mr. Darcy - insulting me - or the consequences - it being heard? For if it is only for the consequences but you do not regret the action, an apology is meaningless."

"I am apologizing first for saying it and also for being so lost to propriety as to have said such in a public setting. That it was heard but adds to my shame." He paused, "I will make no excuses. It was a reflection of my mood and displeasure. I will not try to disclaim my actions by saying I did not see you. I did but what I did not see then, I began to see over the course of the following weeks. You were more than tolerable enough to tempt me, Miss Bennet, and, if truth is to be known, the reputed claims to beauty of your elder sister are nothing compared to your own."

Elizabeth could not help but blush in amazement at the compliment, knew not how to respond and unable to meet his eyes, gazed at the ground in front of her.

Darcy seeing her discomfort could not resist a tease, "You will have to get used to such compliments, Miss Bennet. You will surely receive many such from me in the future."

"I believe, sir, you are enjoying my embarrassment!"

"Indeed I am, and you are encouraging me to repeat it frequently. I do admire your countenance when you blush." His grin faded as he said in a less light-hearted voice, "I do hope you will forgive and forget my unkind words, Miss Bennet."

"I have spent a considerable amount of time lately considering them and other matters that lie between us. I can assure you that I had resolved this morning to put them behind me so your apology is accepted, sir. You are forgiven; however, ..." and her voice took on a teasing note, "...it would be very remiss of me to forget the offence and thus lose the opportunity to tease and plague you about it in the future which you can be assured I will do."

Darcy smiled, obviously not offended, as he replied, "I admit I like being teased by Miss Elizabeth Bennet and hope to give you many opportunities in the future."

"Nevertheless, Mr. Darcy, I admit to being puzzled as to why you would express yourself so ungraciously. Nothing I observed in your subsequent behaviour would support such behaviour."

Darcy walked in silence for several minutes before replying, "I cannot say for certain. I admit I had attended with some reluctance and to learn that my income and worth, as measured by such, was common fodder for discussion within minutes of my appearance, was...very distasteful. I admit it happens in London but more discretely, I assure you. I knew no one outside my own party and those to whom I was introduced did not recommend themselves to me. I am afraid Sir William and your mother did naught but exacerbate my discomfort." He paused and Elizabeth could see him scrutinizing her countenance. She hoped that he could detect no censure since she felt none. She could easily understand the reaction of a well-bred man to the improprieties of one and the foolishness of the other. She thought to reassure him saying, "I can well imagine your discomfort at both. I believe that I have become so used to both as to be somewhat oblivious to their behaviour."

Darcy obviously did not believe her entirely - she remembered that he had seen her embarrassment at her mother's behaviour on several occasions - but did not comment further as he continued with his explanation, "Well, as I said, I was not in a happy mood which was derived also from my concerns about my sister. While I was visiting Netherfield to assist Bingley, I was also separating myself from Georgiana - at Mrs. Annesley's recommendation - since my sister found my concern somewhat...smothering, I believe Mrs. Annesley said. In any event, I felt obliged to attend the assembly but did not wish to dance. I confess that if I had not attended, Miss Bingley would also have remained at Netherfield and that was a prospect I did not wish for. Unfortunately, Bingley, who is everything amiable and sociable, sometimes presses on me severely. That evening was one such time and I found his admonishments to be extremely bothersome. That I lashed out so unfairly, so unjustly as to insult you or any other young lady, shames me. I cannot..."

"Enough, Mr. Darcy. Your penance is complete. I have accepted your apology but I wish you to accept mine. I spoke most unkindly of you and to you afterwards and my behaviour was no less improper than yours. Let us leave this topic for now and think on those which should prove more enjoyable. What think you of Milton's Paradise Lost?"

The remainder of their walk was spent on less personal subjects and their preferences in literature were explored as were those books that had been read recently. If both realized a need to step back towards less emotional topics, the subjects and books discussed were of interest to both. That differences of opinion would exist was to be expected, although they found agreement on more than either expected. When disagreements were discovered, Elizabeth was pleased to discover that he was prepared to listen with respect as she defended her position. All too often it had been her experience that men - no matter how poorly educated or lacking in intelligence - were inclined to be dismissive of her opinion simply because of her sex. She had perceived Mr. Darcy's respect for her opinions when at Netherfield, but had been inclined to give him little credit for it. Now, she did and their discussions gained by the freedom and respect that he afforded her.

Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, their discussion of books did not survive the impingement of several young persons clamouring for attention - albeit in a most genteel manner under the stern eye of their governess. Darcy and Elizabeth shortly found themselves engaged in entertaining, and being entertained by, her young cousins until they all returned to the Gardiner home. If Miss Margaret was content to walk beside Mr. Darcy in such a demure fashion as to raise a carefully hidden smile from Elizabeth, her sister was a veritable font of questions most of which were also directed at Mr. Darcy. Prominent amongst them were whether he was to marry Cousin Lizzy or why was he so tall? Darcy appeared to take it all in stride and, while his customary reserve was intact, Elizabeth thought it was slightly softened when addressing her cousins.

Darcy had been invited to dinner and the evening passed in an agreeable fashion. It also set a pattern for future dinners inasmuch as the two oldest children sat with them to eat and Darcy, encouraged by their manners, had no reservations about asking to include his sister in future, invitations which met with general approval.

Chapter 11 - A Night at the Theatre

Tonight's entertainment was not, in contradistinction to those meetings which had taken place previously, a casual affair. The invitation had been extended at dinner the same evening that she and Darcy had walked in the park with the young Gardiners. And, if Elizabeth had not understood the full implications of the invitation, her aunt, who was much more sophisticated in the ways of London society, had understood them quite well indeed and the moves necessarily associated with them. As she informed Elizabeth after Darcy had left, "Mr. Darcy is, with this invitation, being more explicit about his intentions, Lizzy."

At Elizabeth's obvious confusion, she sighed, "Mr. Darcy has invited us to see a play, at the most prominent theatre in London - Covent Gardens - and to view it from his private box. You...we will enter the theatre in public - you on his arm - for I am sure he means to conduct you personally to his box - and be assured that, at this time of year, the play will be well attended by those prominent in society. It is very much a public declaration of his interest." She let her words hang for almost a minute while her niece considered them before saying, "If you do not wish to...or if this is too soon, we should let Mr. Darcy know immediately."

Elizabeth had not believed the invitation to be more than an enjoyable entertainment and the play - A Midsummer's Night's Dream - was one she had enjoyed reading for years but never seen in a theatre. She was loath to lose this opportunity. To come under such scrutiny, to be of public interest, was not something she had contemplated and was not sure she wished for it to happen; and yet, if she were to accept Mr. Darcy's assurances at some point, this would be part of her life as Mrs. Darcy. Was she ready to take another step on that path? Or was her aunt reading too much into the situation? No, on this, she must defer to her aunt's greater understanding. If she took this step, she was effectively admitting that she desired the courtship to continue; that she was confident enough in her ability to handle the situations likely to arise and in her feelings to allow it to become public knowledge - albeit no one would know that an official courtship was taking place. But even an unofficial courtship would give rise to speculation and, if such were the case, it would be, she thought, much better that such speculation take place here in London than in Hertfordshire. A sudden thought occurred to her,

"Aunt, are we...am I likely to be introduced to Mr. Darcy's friends and acquaintances?"

"I think that goes without saying, Lizzy. I would anticipate many visitors to the box during intermissions and, possibly, even family members, if they are attending. This is a very public affair, Lizzy. Very public! And they will wish to meet of the woman Mr. Darcy is escorting."

Mrs. Gardiner allowed her niece a few more moments of contemplation before stating emphatically, "Well, if you are not to withdraw, we must ensure that you are suitably garbed. I know you have nothing truly appropriate with you, so we must visit my modiste immediately."

Elizabeth's assent had been absent-minded, as her thoughts were more engaged on contemplating the gradual change in her view of Mr. Darcy. Her inattentiveness carried her through the business of readying herself to visit the modiste and the trip to her shop. What did this invitation to such a public event say about Mr. Darcy's opinion of her? That his affections were engaged, she had come to accept. That he thought her beautiful, she still had trouble accepting - although his words had warmed her. Now it appeared he was prepared to present her to his society, to introduce her to his friends and, possibly, his family; and obviously to stand with her and support her while doing so - or was he testing her ability to act in an appropriate manner? She knew enough of his honour to believe that he would not wish to embarrass her or himself, and therefore he must believe her capable of handling such a situation, perhaps even enhancing it. And now she had to accept that the poverty of her connections and portion were of no significance to him and that his pride and arrogance, which had decried those connections in Hertfordshire as beneath his notice and attentions, had been put aside in her favour.

She was not allowed to linger on such thoughts when they entered the Modiste's shop as they were quickly shown into a private room. Mrs. Gardiner's modiste, while not favoured by the highest of society, was very much appreciated by those in trade with a recognition of style and fashion and the monies to afford her. As Mrs. Gardiner was wont to say, "Madame is not cheap but her gowns will compare with any modiste in town, and you are not paying for the privilege of saying they were designed by Madame ___ or some other modiste favoured by the ton."

Within two hours both ladies had agreed on the materials and styles they wished to wear, measurements taken and gowns and fittings guaranteed for the following afternoon - at a premium over the cost, of course - Madame would have to incur additional cost to ensure the gowns were completed in two days time prior to attending the theatre. Satisfied with the gowns, Mrs. Gardiner led her niece through a procession of shops to acquire other necessities to complete their outfits. By the time they returned to Gracechurch Street, Elizabeth regretted that Mr. Darcy had been dissuaded from calling due to the need for the ladies to shop; however, he and Georgiana had been invited for dinner and duly arrived to find an Elizabeth refreshed by an hour's rest. The two oldest Gardiner children had again been allowed to dine with the adults and were introduced to Miss Darcy who had, upon entering the parlour, been captured by Elizabeth and led to a settee somewhat removed from the rest of the room where, in company with the young Miss Gardiners, Elizabeth began to draw her into a conversation. Since both of the young Gardiners were learning to play the pianoforte, Elizabeth had used that topic as a means of capturing Miss Darcy's interest and within fifteen minutes they had moved to the instrument in the room with Miss Darcy showing the others some of her skills, and observing and commenting on their efforts in her gentle voice. When it became apparent that her three companions were comfortable in each other's company, Elizabeth withdrew to join her aunt and uncle and Darcy who greeted her by saying, "Thank you. Georgiana is so shy she has a difficult time in company. I find it interesting that she feels so comfortable with your cousins and with you."

"Your sister is very sweet. I think she will find being in company easier as her confidence grows. I remember saying to your cousin that she is at a trying age. I can remember how awkward I found it."

Mr. Gardiner laughed, "Indeed, I can remember how much you resented having your mother push you into society when you wished to roam the trails and read."

"I vexed her greatly, I am sure." laughed Elizabeth. Not wishing the conversation to devolve into one in which her mother's foibles arose, she told Darcy, "I fear our afternoon tomorrow is also to be spent at the modiste. It is a necessary but unfortunate task, if we are to attend the theatre, I am afraid."

Darcy thought quietly for a few minutes as the conversation flowed around him. If the others noted his abstraction, no comment was made and when conversation seemed to lag slightly after a few minutes, he addressed Mrs. Gardiner, "I have been in the habit of getting my business matters done in the morning so as to afford time to visit here in the afternoon; however, if tomorrow afternoon you both are otherwise engaged, I could easily defer my business to the afternoon. I wonder if Miss Elizabeth," and, glancing at that lady, smiled before continuing, "would like to join me and Georgiana for a walk in Hyde Park. I am asking since I know Elizabeth is often engaged with her cousins in the mornings and I would not wish to disturb any arrangements you may have."

Mrs. Gardiner caught Elizabeth's eye and receiving a slight nod - which Darcy did not miss - responded, "Indeed, I see no problem with such a plan. Lizzy's involvement with the children is not fixed at all."

Suitable arrangements were made to have Elizabeth arrive at the Darcy house after breakfast the next morning and shortly thereafter Mrs. Gardiner announced that dinner was ready. The remainder of the evening passed pleasantly and, while the main topic of conversation revolved around the play they were to see performed two evenings hence, the Darcys were interested to learn of the Gardiner's proposed trip to The Lakes in the summer and both, having visited there themselves, were able to impart their appreciation for the area and enlighten Elizabeth as to the beauties that awaited her. In the process, Darcy found himself enjoyably engaged with Mr. Gardiner in a discussion on the joys of angling - to the amusement of Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner who commented, "I am so glad that Mr. Gardiner has found a sympathetic ear on this topic. I cannot understand the attraction myself and he has few opportunities to indulge his interest actively or in conversation."

When Elizabeth arrived at the Darcy house the next morning, she found that Georgiana had woken feeling slightly ill and had chosen to avoid the morning's walk. Elizabeth had found, despite her pleasure in Georgiana's company that she looked forward to being able to talk with Darcy alone. When she considered that walk, she remembered her surprise on seeing those who also were enjoying the pleasure of a warm spring morning. Nurses and governesses with infants and children there were aplenty; but of couples there were very few. She mentioned her observation to Darcy and she found his response intriguing.

"Most stroll in this park for one purpose," said he, "to see and be seen by others of fashionable society. And the proper time for doing so is between five and seven in the evening." He could not contain a short bark of laughter, "Since neither I nor Georgiana relish being on display, we favour an earlier hour - like now." His quick glance at Elizabeth elicited a brief nod from her, "and knowing your love of walking, I was quite sure you would enjoy a brisk walk."

Elizabeth had no trouble assuring him of her delight in doing so and they had enjoyed an hour or so of exercise and conversation interrupted only occasionally by being hailed by acquaintances of the Darcys. Elizabeth had not been oblivious to the questioning looks cast her way but was only required to deflect one or two questions before Darcy would urge them back to their walk.

Concerned that he was reluctant to expose her unduly she felt a need to say, perhaps more sharply than necessary, "I am quite prepared to handle impertinent questions, Mr. Darcy!"

"I never doubted it!" said he. "I was but exercising my preference to walk with you."

Mollified, Elizabeth was pensive for some minutes before raising an issue that her aunt had mentioned the day before.

"Mr. Darcy, my aunt told me to expect that quite a few people were likely to seek our acquaintance tomorrow night. Is this a common event, sir?"

Darcy was somewhat surprised at the question since he had not really considered the implications of their attending the show and, as he began to consider what was likely to happen, his uneasiness with what was to happen caused a look, that Elizabeth recognized well from his days in Hertfordshire, to dominate his features. She instinctively released his arm and stepped away, sensing the return of the Mr. Darcy she had disliked. The cause she could only attribute to the thought of her becoming acquainted with people he considered friends. She wished that she could return to Gracechurch Street and thoughts of the theatre had lost their anticipated pleasure.

Darcy had walked several steps, wrapped in gloom at the thought of the increased attention he would garner tonight, before realizing that Elizabeth no longer clasped his arm. He stopped in confusion and looking at Elizabeth, could not see her face hidden by her bonnet but she had also turned to look away from him. He stopped and placing a hand on her arm - willing her to turn - he asked, making no effort to mask his concern, "What is the matter, Miss Bennet?"

"I would ask you the same, sir." Replied she, "I would know why the Mr. Darcy of my first acquaintance in Hertfordshire has returned. Is the thought of my being greeted by your friends and relatives so displeasing, sir?"

Darcy could not take her meaning and, after a brief pause, said as much; to which Elizabeth replied, "You are glowering much as you did in Hertfordshire. I have to believe that my presence at the theatre is the cause of this sudden displeasure. I would remind..."

Darcy hastily interrupted her, "You could not be more wrong, Eliz...Miss Bennet. I had not realized that my face was so unwelcoming." He paused as he tried to assemble his thoughts, before blurting, "I will not deny that I thought poorly of Hertfordshire and its inhabitants when I first arrived - or at least most of its inhabitants. My thoughts now, however, are simply...well, I greatly dislike such attentions paid to me. I derive no pleasure - quite the reverse, in fact."

"I do not really understand. You have nothing to fear in such company." Elizabeth thought carefully - understanding that he could get so wrapped in his own concerns and discomfort that he could not understand hers - before adding, "You know that most will be more interested - to my dismay - in determining who the woman on your arm is? I expect them to be quite delicately and subtly fierce in their investigations. Would you not agree, sir?" Darcy was relieved to see a return of her teasing smile and his own faced softened in return.

"You have little to fear, Miss Bennet. You own civility will armour you against any inquiries and I will not allow any disrespect - from anyone!"

This was said with such determination that Elizabeth simply nodded her head in thanks as she took his arm once more and resumed their walk. As such things must, they had to conclude their exercise. Elizabeth had to return to Gracechurch Street to prepare to visit the modiste and Darcy to his business affairs. Nevertheless, Elizabeth was resolved that she would not allow his discomfort to persist. Clearly it affected him to such an extent that he did not consider how he affected others or how he appeared to them.

The press of carriages lining up to deliver their passengers to Convent Gardens was long enough for Elizabeth to be thankful that her uncle had insisted on an early departure from Gracechurch Street. When they finally arrived, it seemed that less than a half hour remained before the play was scheduled to start. Elizabeth knew that Darcy was to meet them at the theatre but was still surprised that he was there to help her step out of the carriage. When she stepped out to stand in front of him, he appeared to forget that her uncle and aunt had yet to exit; it took a pronounced throat clearing by her uncle to bring his attention back and induce him to move. He did not remove his eyes from Elizabeth and she could almost feel the warmth in his voice as he said, "You are most beautiful tonight, Miss Bennet."

She was about to tease him about being 'more than tolerable' but decided a simple 'thank you' would be best at this point. She was not yet truly comfortable in teasing him now that she no longer disliked him. He had not relinquished her hand after helping her to exit the carriage, and now placed it on his arm to lead her and her aunt and uncle into the theatre. Elizabeth could see his countenance beginning to settle into a guise with which she had been all too familiar when he visited Hertfordshire. "Mr. Darcy," she whispered sharply. His glance settled on her face and she began to withdraw her hand from his arm. His impulsive tightening of his hand atop hers broke the mask he had assumed, "Is there something wrong, Miss Bennet?"

"Only that the Mr. Darcy I have become acquainted with has again disappeared and a stranger is in his place." She had stopped in place with the Gardiners waiting patiently behind them and focused her attention on Darcy.

Dismay flooded his face as he looked at her closely and she saw a less severe look settle there. "I am sorry, Miss Bennet. Truly! I have always disliked intensely the scrutiny I receive here."

"Tonight, I am counting on you to help me face that scrutiny."

Darcy could see a trace of anxiety in her eyes although she had hidden it from her features, and squeezing her hand on his arm, said simply, "And so I shall, Miss Bennet. So I shall!"

Together they began the journey to his box. Their journey, although not long, could not be completed quickly as they moved into the press of the crowd. Progress was slow and was impeded by the occasional stoppage as one or other of Darcy's acquaintances blocked their progress to greet him and obviously to gain an introduction to the woman on his arm. Introductions were kept brief with the convenient excuse of needing to gain their box. The process she found quite revealing as it soon became possible to discern which, of those who approached them, Darcy considered a close acquaintance and which he did not. His mien grew more stiff, tension increased in the arm her hand rested on and his manner became more distant, the more tenuous the acquaintance with the individual who greeted them. His manner of introducing her was always faultless but with such individuals, little effort was made to converse beyond the barest civility. With those he held as close acquaintances, his manner was much warmer, his body less tense. In all, Elizabeth could not be disheartened by the manner in which she was treated. She expected some incivility and coldness - Miss Bingley was not an anomaly in society, after all - but amongst those with whom Darcy felt most comfortable, the predominant reaction was that of curiosity which she deemed a reasonable response.

They had barely settled there when the lights began to dim. Nevertheless, even in the few minutes that lapsed during which they could be seen by others, Elizabeth could feel herself being the focus of many eyes. Leaning towards Darcy she whispered, "Now I know how Daniel felt in the lion's den!"

He chuckled, "I have no doubt they will break their teeth on you, Miss Bennet." His voice turned more serious, "Do not concern yourself. I will not leave you alone tonight. Let us try and enjoy the play."

And enjoy it she did. Once the theatre darkened, she was able to forget that she was an object of interest and tried to focus on the play unfolding before her; however, she found that her concentration suffered at first from the presence of Mr. Darcy sitting beside her. Never, in her experience, had she been so conscious of a man's existence. He smelled of sandalwood and some other fragrance she could not identify, his physical size and the warmth of his breath, as he occasionally whispered beside her ear, disconcerted her immensely. She tried to keep her focus on the play but found it increasingly difficult and, as the first intermission arrived, it was only her intimate knowledge of the play that allowed her to pretend - with creditability she hoped - an awareness of the acting that had taken place. Mr. Gardiner had departed the box to acquire drinks while Darcy remained to deal with the expected visitors.

He was not disappointed as several of his acquaintances, none of whom could successfully claim to be close, visited the box. Darcy was not altogether comfortable with the intrusions but could not but be pleased at how easily Elizabeth deflected even the most impertinent questions. Fortunately, most of the visitors were well-mannered and more interested in being able to say that they had met the young lady that Darcy had escorted to the theatre, than to be inquisitive.

Elizabeth found, as the play progressed, that the presence of Mr. Darcy became less of a distraction and became aware, by the time the closing scene arrived, that she was quite comfortable with his physical being although she had yet to realize that she experienced it as, in truth, rather pleasant. It was during the second and third intermissions that several gentlemen, whom Darcy considered to be friends, invaded the Darcy box attended by their wives, mothers or sisters. Elizabeth observed Darcy's reserve slipping a little further and, while certainly far from jovial, his manner showed pleasure in the company; however, it took but one newcomer who could claim only a more distant acquaintance, for his reserve to re-establish itself. Oddly, none of his friends seemed particularly bothered by the change - and one gentleman actually teased him slightly about it - from which Elizabeth could only infer that this behaviour was of long standing. His manner towards her remained solicitous throughout and her obvious ease and ability to converse intelligently with his friends appeared, she believed, to afford him considerable satisfaction. From his friends, she could detect nothing but curiosity and pleasure in her company which undoubtedly added to her ease. Since she was also intimately familiar with the play itself, it provided a ready source of conversation and she made no pretence of hiding her delight in seeing it enacted on a stage.

Their exit from the theatre was not dissimilar to their entry with many people approaching to claim, or trying to claim, an acquaintance with Darcy. Elizabeth truly realized as they made their progress that Darcy was a most recognizable figure in society and that he faced such pressures on almost every public social occasion; she could more readily now appreciate his reserve and disinclination for such events and his discomfort with them. The haughtiness of his manner was perhaps partially attributable to his awareness of his station relative to others with whom he had found little in common or to appreciate; however, his reserve and taciturn nature made it even more forbidding. It was, she believed, something he must ameliorate and soften if they were to have a future together; but his reserve she could tolerate since she was coming to appreciate the qualities of the man behind it.