This Terrible Love--Chapter 12

Posted By: AnnL <cleo_jd-JA-yahoo.com>
Date: Monday, 13 February 2006, at 5:06 p.m.

DNA: I'm so sorry this chapter is late, I'm afraid I was very busy last week and the chapter needed more work than I could give it at the time. If I'm lucky I'll be able to get you another chapter later this week. Thanks to my Betas and to every one who reads and comments. To remind you what happened at the end of last chapter, Jane informed Bingley of Mr. Bennet's forced engagement between Lizzy and Mr. Collins. In rides Darcy....Enjoy!

RA:

Chapter 12

Darcy's black stallion fidgeted underneath him, sensing his master's concern. Past the gate at Netherfield he urged the steed into a comfortable canter. He needed to be at his best for this encounter, as more than just his own future was at stake.

The elder Bennet sister kept watch at Elizabeth's window to spy the gentleman when he came to see Mr. Bennet. They did not have to wait long. At half past noon hoof beats echoed along the path from Netherfield and they spied Darcy, fastidiously dressed in his best riding clothes, dismount in front of the house. His eyes strayed up to the windows to catch a glimpse of his beloved as he walked toward front door, and he smiled quickly at Lizzy and Jane as they peered out from the second floor.

Darcy strode into Longbourn with as much command as the master of Pemberley could be expected to have, and requested to speak with Mr. Bennet. As soon as they heard the study door close behind Mr. Darcy, Jane and Elizabeth crept down the stairs to hear what they could of the conversation. As Mrs. Bennet and the other three girls were to call on Aunt Phillips, they had little fear of discovery in their eavesdropping.

In truth, Darcy had been livid when he heard the story Bingley brought back from Longbourn. He felt acutely the pain Elizabeth must have felt to be treated in such an infamous manner. Mr. Bennet needed to know that she would be his wife, and no parson or country gentleman would stand in their way. Darcy knew also, however, that Elizabeth loved her father dearly and he wanted make an effort to make this situation right before they made any plans for Scotland.

With these thoughts in mind, Darcy stood in Mr. Bennet's study, eyeing the gentleman at his desk. Mr. Bennet peered back at him over top his spectacles for a full minute before either spoke a civil if cold greeting.

“Please Mr. Darcy have a seat.”

“I would prefer to stand.”

“Port?” Mr. Bennet poured himself a small glass.

“No thank you. Mr. Bennet it is my understanding that you have heard a harmful report concerning your daughter Elizabeth and myself. I have come to clear up the misunderstanding and to rectify the situation as quickly as may be.”

“There is no misunderstanding Mr. Darcy. You have taken advantage of my daughter, she has weakly allowed you to lead her astray, I cannot abide by having a man such as yourself as my son in law, so Elizabeth must suffer the consequence of marrying the stupidest man of my acquaintance.”

Darcy's anger grew with Mr. Bennet's seemly flippant remarks.

“I take issue with each and every one of your suppositions. First, I have already asked for and received your daughter's hand. We are engaged. Under that circumstance, our behavior, though not circumspect, was also not scandalous. Second, I know not what you mean by a “man such as myself” but if your reports as to my character are from a Mr. Wickham than I can safely presume your knowledge of my person and my character are lacking. Lastly, and please listen most carefully, Miss Elizabeth Bennet will marry no one but me.”

“As I recall Mr. Darcy, a father's permission must be had before an engagement becomes final. You have no such permission. As for Mr. Wickham's information, I have no reason to disbelieve it. You have made yourself disagreeable to the entire neighborhood ever since you entered this society. You even slighted Elizabeth at the first assembly you attended, though obviously her charms have grown on you since then.” Mr. Bennet smiled wryly, but it was a smile that never reached his eyes.

I do not pretend to know what Wickham has said, but I would like to grant you the opportunity to hear the truth, and I can offer verification of everything I tell you in the form of written evidence and the account of my cousin. Please allow me to--”

“Mr. Darcy, you have wasted enough of my time. Elizabeth will marry Collins in a fortnight whether you agree or not. She has exhibited a shocking lack of propriety that I defy even her youngest sister to duplicate.”

Darcy's patience was quickly wearing thin. “Mr. Bennet, I cannot stand here and allow you to speak of Elizabeth so cruelly. Mr. Wickham has poisoned you with vicious lies. I can well understand how you could believe him, his manners are such that my own father, many acquaintances, and even other members of my family have been taken in by him, only to be imposed upon most infamously."

Darcy paused here, to ensure Mr. Bennet heard ever word that was to follow "What I cannot accept is what you have done to Elizabeth. Your daughter IS engaged to be my wife. She is the best woman I have ever known and if you, as her father, cannot or will not grant her the respect and love that she deserves as your child, I shall remove her from this house.”

Suddenly confused, by Darcy's seeming forthrightness and unsure what or who to believe, Mr. Bennet responded defensively.

“Are you threatening to take my daughter from me, Mr. Darcy?”

“It is no threat, Mr. Bennet, it is a fact.” The cold steel of Darcy's voice reverberated through the air.

Believing Darcy's last statement to be a challenge to his authority as master of Longbourn, any questions Mr. Bennet had as to the possible veracity of Darcy's words were quickly erased and replaced with anger and resentment. "Can you deny, Sir, that you have taken advantage of my daughter in the woods near Meryton?"

"I have no wish to deny it." Darcy responded, holding his chin high, even as guilt seeped into heart.

"There is, then, nothing more to be said on the subject. You have shown yourself to be a disreputable man--for I will not call you a gentleman no matter your social standing. The marriage between Elizabeth and Collins is arranged, the banns will be published tomorrow, and there is absolutely nothing you can do to stop it. Elizabeth is not permitted to leave this house and I will not allow you to step a foot, again, across this threshold."

Even with the thoughts of Elizabeth's happiness at the forefront of his mind, Darcy could not bring himself to beg her father to listen to his explanation. It was indeed clear that the man was not prepared to see the error of his ways and there was certainly no guarantee that Mr. Bennet would give an ounce of credence to his account of Wickham's character--after all his own father never really believed him--and Darcy did not feel comfortable telling Mr. Bennet about Georgiana, that was putting the fate of his sister in the hands of a man who treated his own daughter reprehensibly. With a heavy heart burdened with the notion that he had failed Elizabeth miserably, Darcy made no more attempts to solicit Mr. Bennet's attention.

"You have long been desiring my absence. Be assured Mr. Bennet, this will not be the last you hear from me."

Not awaiting a reply, he strode forcefully to the door. Elizabeth and Jane had had just enough time to run back upstairs before Mr. Darcy stormed from the room. As they peered down from a concealed spot around the bend in the staircase, the sisters spied the younger gentleman, his face flush with anger, march directly out of the house with singular purpose. Though disappointed he had not come in search of her, Elizabeth knew such an act would be in direct conflict with her father's wishes and would cause an irreparable rift among the parties involved. Hearing the last echoes of Darcy's footfalls as he exited Longbourn, the girls retired to Lizzy's room to discuss their next step.

****************

As he mounted his horse and galloped away, back toward Netherfield, Darcy poured over the words exchanged in his encounter with Elizabeth's father. Sure that the results of the meeting between the gentlemen would reach Elizabeth's ears in short order (if they had not already) Darcy longed to find her, kiss away her tears, and steal her away from this dreadful place immediately, but he knew to act too rashly could be terribly costly to his fiancée and himself, not to mention Charles and the future Mrs. Bingley. It would not do to act without a plan.

******

Bingley did not need to speak with Darcy to know that the things had not gone well at Longbourn, the thunderous scowl evident upon his friend's countenance told him all he need to know.

"Bingley, I'll be in the library penning several letters, find my cousin and meet me there in one half hour, there is much to be done and little time to accomplish it all."

Just as Darcy had finished signing and sealing the last of three missives, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley rushed hurriedly into the room.

"Good Lord Darcy, what has happened? Bingley just informed me of Mr. Bennet's reaction to your engagement--and to think, I thought it was Aunt Catherine who would throw the biggest tantrum over the news!"

Not terribly amused by his cousin's attempts at humor, Darcy's eyes warned the colonel to tread lightly and curb his quick tongue, as he suggested they make themselves comfortable. After ringing Fawcett to post his letters express, Darcy launched into a lengthy explanation of the plan that he had been formulating since the moment he stepped across Longbourn's threshold for the last time. Over the next few hours the three gentlemen debated the soundness of each portion of the plot and retooled the preparations as was deemed necessary. Just after tea, the trio separated to begin putting the plan into action.

***********

Darcy's first stop was to the sitting room that Georgiana occupied alone, to inform his sister of their need to travel at first light the next morning.

In a low whispering, so that no errant servant could hear, Darcy unfolded a portion of the plan. "My dearest sister, I do not have the leisure to inform you of everything that has happened or is going to happen, but rest assured that all will soon be revealed. Pack a trunk with your warmest clothes as we will be traveling north, you need not pack everything, for I am sure we will return here. Whatever you do, please do not betray the truth of our destination. To anyone outside the small traveling party, we are to be traveling into Oxfordshire, and it's important that Miss Bingley and the Hursts believe that is so."

Wide-eyed and astonished by her bother's secretiveness, Georgiana nodded in agreement. "Is it just you and I who are to go, or are there others accompanying us?"

"Our cousin, Mr. Bingley and I will be traveling on horseback, you, Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth will be in the carriage." Darcy's voice was barely audible and for a moment Georgie wondered if she had hear correctly. Astonishment played upon her countenance before her eyes narrowed upon her brother.

"Fitzwilliam, is there a good reason why you are eloping with Miss Bennet and taking us all with you?!"

"Georgie, keep your voice down, the entire plan will be foiled it Miss Bingley hears a word of this breathed!" Inhaling deeply to calm himself, Darcy realized he needed to give Georgie a little more explanation. "I am not eloping with Miss Bennet, at least not yet. I'm buying us all some time to get various misunderstandings corrected and to take care of Wickham once and for all." Seeing the accusatory look upon his sister's face he continued to explain. "Georgie I know I told you that elopement was a terrible choice for any woman to make, but there extenuating circumstances here, and I promise that you will soon be privy to the entire situation, but this is not the time of place for explanation."

"Fitzwilliam, I believe you once told me that no man who respected a woman would even suggest an elopement. What has changed your opinion?" The way in which Georgiana's eyebrow rose in question and challenge reminded Darcy of another woman he would soon have to answer to.

"Much has changed Georgie, but as I said a few moments ago, I cannot tell you now. I'm just asking--no begging--for you to trust me this once, I promise you will have the whole truth once we arrive at our destination."

Taking pity upon her distraught brother, Georgiana assented to his request, assured him of her secrecy and sent him on his way to speak with Fawkes and continue preparations.

*************

At the same time Darcy was speaking to Georgiana, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley were on their way to Longbourn. Fortunately for the late afternoon callers, they found the Miss Bennets, save Elizabeth, in the parlor along with Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins. After an exchange of pleasantries, the Colonel made the first move in furtherance of the plot.

"Mr. Collins, I had hoped I might have a private word with you regarding your esteemed patroness, my aunt."

Thrilled at the prospect of being so singled out by any relation of the noble Lady Catherine DeBourgh, Collins let the Colonel to the East sitting room where they would not be disturbed and could speak openly.

In the mean time, Mrs. Bennet's machinations worked right into Bingley's hands as she suggested Jane and Mary take him for a tour of the gardens. Just as they were to walk out the door, Mrs. Bennet suddenly called Mary back in need of her for some vitally important reason, but sent the other two on ahead.

Finding himself along with Jane, Bingley wasted no time in imparting to her the entirety of the plan and his assurances that all would be well. Jane, pleased at the gentlemen's efforts to secure Elizabeth's and her own happiness, if not a little apprehensive at the daunting tasks which lay ahead, consented to be ready at the appointed hour and place and to have Elizabeth with her. "Elizabeth and I have spoken of this possibility and we are prepared to leave as soon as you tell us be ready."

Less than 10 minutes later, having finished his business with the parson, the Colonel found Bingley and Jane in the garden and hastened Bingley, reminding him there was still much to be done. The gentlemen escorted the lady back to the house and took their leave. Bingley rode back to Netherfield in order to plant the seed with his sisters that he was traveling to Oxfordshire with the Darcys. He had no doubt that, though displeased that they themselves were not invited, both Caroline and Louisa would be in exceedingly high spirits that their brother would be becoming "better acquainted" with Miss Darcy. It was imperative that Bingley's sisters spread the rumors of their departure and destination to all of Meryton society, and he knew, in this instance his sisters would not disappoint. The Colonel, on the other hand rode on to Meryton for one last call to Colonel Forester.

********

With the moon still high in the night sky, three gentlemen, one lady, the lady's maid and a valet silently crept out of Netherfield Hall. Having had the carriage packed that evening, the party was able to slip out of the house without risk of waking the less discreet members of the household. The gentlemen mounted their horses, and the lady and her maid stepped into the carriage, while the valet climbed up with the driver to give instructions as the party prepared for departure north. The carriage made only one brief stop, halting along the fork where the paths to Netherfield and Longbourn met the main road through Meryton. Upon seeing the carriage halt, two forms left their hiding place among the trees and were helped into the carriage by two of the gentlemen, while their bundles were secured with the other luggage. After just a few short moments the carriage continued on, taking a circuitous route around Meryton so as not to excite any undo suspicions.

Darcy's well orchestrated plan ensured the Netherfield party and the Miss Bennets had a half-day head start before anyone discovered the note Jane had left for Mrs. Bennet.

Chapter 13

As the coach rolled solemnly north, Elizabeth watched the sun peak out over the horizon to her right. Georgiana, Jane and Georgiana's maid, Emma, all dozed quietly, but she herself could not sleep knowing her beloved Darcy was riding just outside, conveying them all to locations unknown. That he had hatched such am elaborate plan entirely to protect her and preserve her happiness was nearly beyond belief, he truly was the best man she had ever known. Only Bingley and the Colonel, and perhaps Fawkes, knew their ultimate destination, since it is far easier to keep a secret when less people know.

Peering across the coach at Jane, Lizzy could not help but smile as she thought of words in the note her dear sister had left for their mother. It had been Mr. Darcy's idea to leave a note to allay the fears of the Bennets, but at the same time hopefully send them looking in the wrong direction for their daughters. It was pure genius for Mr. Bingley to suggest Jane write the note, as no one would question her veracity.

Dearest Mama,

By the time this note reached you, your eldest daughters, Lizzy and myself, will be well on our way to visiting our Aunt and Uncle Gardiner and to obtain wedding clothes for Lizzy. Please forgive us for not informing you of our departure, but it came about quite suddenly. An express reached Longbourn late last night, after you and papa had retired for the evening. It seems that one of Uncle Gardiner's coaches, manned by two of his loyal servants, would be passing through the area in the early morning on the way back to London. He suggested that Lizzy and I return with it so that we could purchase the necessary items my dear would need for her imminent wedding. We shall write to you immediately upon our arrival.

Your loving and affectionate daughter,

Jane

There was no other way to put it, Jane outright lied to their mother. This fact clearly proved to Lizzy that she had obviously had too much of an influence on her elder sister. At the same time Jane had penned the note to their mother, Lizzy had written to Aunt and Uncle Gardiner upon Darcy's instructions conveyed to her through Bingley and Jane. Darcy had thought that, perhaps, if Lizzy had a loyal family member who might be trusted, that connection might be used as conduit to assist in smoothing communication between himself and Mr. Bennet. Both Elizabeth and Jane immediately thought of the Gardiners, knowing they were the only relations who might be reasonable and willing to assist. Elizabeth wrote a note of introduction that was sent, along with a letter from Darcy, via express at the town where the party first changed horses that morning. They would not know if her Aunt and Uncle agreed to the plan until they reached the end of their journey, and Elizabeth prayed they would not give away any secrets to Mr. Bennet which may allow him to locate her.

The journey that day was long and arduous. No eye witnesses were to be found who would place the Bennet ladies with the Darcy party, and so the ladies remained inside the carriage as much as possible, only venturing out when absolutely necessary and then individually, accompanied only by Emma, so that Jane, Lizzy and Georgie were never seen together. The stress of subterfuge weighed heavily upon everyone's nerves and it was with a great, collective sigh that the carriage pulled into a small estate as twilight once again fell over the country.

******

While his two eldest daughters prepared to alight from the carriage which had surreptitiously transported them away from Hertfordshire, Mr. Bennet sat in his study mulling over the stunning turn of events the day had brought. The fact that neither Jane nor Lizzy had appeared for church that morning or for breakfast had not seemed out of the ordinary in the least, Lizzy had kept to her room almost entirely since the announcement of her betrothal to Mr. Collins and Jane occasionally slept past the hour of the early meal even on Sunday. It was not until near noon, when his wife had come running out of the house to find him in the grove, a flurry of petticoats and lace, that he realized something was amiss.

"Oh, Mr. Bennet, you will not believe it, you must see this note I have from Jane. She is gone to London with our Miss Lizzy!"

Immediately alarmed by Mrs. Bennet's pronouncement he read the note himself with a sinking feeling in his gut. He had truly trusted Jane's goodness too much to believe she would ever sink to such deception He had misjudged her, and his adversary's power of persuasion. Mrs. Bennet herself saw nothing amiss in her daughters taking a coach under the cover of night to London, and had in fact bragged to the neighborhood of their visit to the Gardiners in the hopes they would purchase superior wedding clothes in the fashionable town.

Upon reading Jane's note, he was quite sure his daughters had not gone to London, but when news reached his ears later that afternoon from Kitty, who said that Maria Lucas had said that Caroline Bingley was telling everyone how her brother had gone with the Darcys to Oxfordshire, Mr. Bennet was certain that Jane and Lizzy were in the company of the Darcy party.

The fact that no one in town had put two and two together to reach four as he had, signified the exceptional planning that Darcy and perhaps his cousin had put into action, for Mr. Bennet could not credit Bingley with enough brain to have been a serious part of it all. They men had not left a detail untouched, making their alibis airtight to the world. What impressed Mr. Bennet the most was that they had effectively tied his hands. He was positive Darcy knew that he would figure out the plot quickly, but Darcy also would have known that Mr. Bennet could never reveal the truth to anyone for fear of ruining his whole family's reputation and good name. They could be anywhere in the country right now, with a day's head start. The only thing the gentleman knew for sure was that they were not in Oxfordshire or London.

Reeling from one piece of devastating information after another had nearly caused Mr. Bennet to forget his disappointment in regards to the morning services. It seems that for some reason the banns announcing Elizabeth's marriage to Mr. Collins had not published. At first he had believed that perhaps it had been an oversight by the local vicar, but after determining that his daughters had taken flight with the Darcy party, Mr. Bennet had no doubt that the gentleman from Derbyshire had somehow duped him again.

Mr. Bennet swirled the contents of his glass as he recalled his obsequious cousin explain, when asked why he had told the vicar not to read the banns, that Colonel Fitzwilliam had suggested Lady Catherine might be put out by the occurrence of such an event before she had been made aware of the impending wedding. The good Colonel believed Mr. Collins should give Lady Catherine notice of the wedding, and perhaps she would even be so generous as to purchase her clergyman a special license.

Laughter welled up in him, and Mr. Bennet had barely been able to keep his composure at the notion of the great Lady Catherine DeBourgh, who like to see the distinction of rank preserved, purchasing a special license for her parson. Once again he had to acknowledge the superior skill of his adversary in successfully avoiding the publication of the banns as well as steeling his daughters out from under his own nose. Yes, Fitzwilliam Darcy was a worthy adversary.

Tomorrow, he would do the only thing he could do, ride to London to enlist the help of the Gardiners, perhaps taking Mr. Wickham along. Positive there was no way the party could have brought his brother-in-law in on the plot, Mr. Bennet felt secure in the trustworthiness of his wife's brother and knew if anyone could help them, he could. Rising to retire for the night he made a solemn pledge to himself and his daughter. "I will rescue you from your own folly, Elizabeth, if it's the last thing I do."

********

Upon exiting the carriage, Jane, Lizzy and Georgiana were met by the sight of a stout woman of middle age, with a warm smile of welcome on her face. She stood at the door of a lovely cottage, perhaps half the size of Longbourn, nestled among rolling hills, with a forest to the right and farm fields stretching out in the other three directions. The ladies could just make out a few lights far in the distance behind the cottage, which they supposed was the closest town, later they were informed it was the small village of Rockingham.

Mr. Darcy brought the ladies forward and introduced them all to Mrs. Sedwick.

"Georgiana, Mrs. Sedwick is the sister of our father's dear friend, Professor Lewisham. She has invited us to spend a day or so with her to break-up the monotony of our journey."

"Indeed, my dear brother wrote to me as soon as he received your express Fitzwilliam, I expect he will be along himself from Oxford shortly, he had to find another professor to cover his classes before he could travel. I welcome all of you to my home, please come in, we have refreshments waiting in the front parlor."

Mrs. Sedwick bustled around the room, fussing over each one of them in their turn, ensuring the ladies were warm and comfortable by the fire and the gentleman comfortably situated. She plied her guests with as much hot tea and biscuits as they could stomach and asked after the state of the roads and weather during their travels.

Elizabeth was sure this woman knew, at least in part, what brought them all to her doorstep, but in her kindness and good humor, Mrs. Sedwick refrained from prying and asking questions or broaching topics which would embarrass or discomfort any of her guests.

Darcy expressed the thanks of the entire party for allowing them respite from their travels.

"Oh, Fitzwilliam it is no trouble at all. This house has been exceedingly quiet since my good husband passed on two years ago and it's a pleasure to see it filled with life and laughter again, especially in pursuit of such a worthy endeavor." tearing up a little at the thought of her deceased husband, Mrs. Sedwick turned the conversion toward the happier topic of food. "Come everyone, supper will be ready soon, let us make our way to the dining room."

The cook set a fine table for a late evening meal, filled with dishes to warm a weary traveler's heart. After supper, the party of seven retired to the drawing room and Georgiana and Elizabeth entertained them on a an old, slightly out of tune pianoforte that Mrs. Sedwick claimed had not been in use since her daughter's visit several months before. Halfway through Elizabeth's rendition of an Irish jig, the door to the room burst open to admit a slighted disheveled older gentlemen whom Jane and Elizabeth surmised to be Professor Lewisham.

Each of the other members of the party gave a warm greeting in turn to the newest arrival, and it was clear the Darcys, Colonel and Mr. Bingley held the man in the highest esteem. Taking Elizabeth's hand, Darcy lead her over and introduced the professor to her and to Jane.

"Professor Lewisham was one of my father's dearest friends and was a mentor not only to myself, but also to the Colonel and Bingley during our years at university."

Taking Lizzy's hand, Lewisham greeted her with a bright smile. "My dear, it is truly an honor and pleasure to finally meet you. It is quite a distinction to have captured this young man's heart. Remind me to regale you with stories of all the young ladies over the years who have tried to catch him." Lizzy smiled mischievously at this, insisting that she could not wait to hear all the Professor would reveal. "I do wish our introduction was under better circumstances, Miss Bennet, but like father, like son, I always say." Confused by his last remark, Lizzy looked quizzically at Darcy who pointedly refused to make eye contact, a fact which made her all the more curious under the circumstances.

Weariness evident on everyone's countenance, it was not long before the ladies and gentleman retired for the evening. The house was not large enough for everyone to have there own room so Bingley and the Colonel doubled up, and Jane and Lizzy decided to do the same so Georgiana would have her own room, but Miss Darcy insisted she would share with Lizzy and allow Jane, as the eldest to have the distinction of a private room. Sensing that Georgie might enjoy the opportunity to share late-night confidences and feminine companionship with her soon-to-be sister, Jane thanked the young lady for her thoughtfulness and took the single room.

Lizzy and Georgie did talk for a short while before sleep overcame them. "Lizzy, how do you know that you are doing the right thing by running away with Fitzwilliam?" It was a question weighing heavily on the young girl's mind.

"I don't know if I'm doing the right thing Georgiana, but I do know that I trust your brother not to do anything to hurt me or my family, and I know in my heart that I love him and he loves me."

"But how do you know you can trust him?"

Unsure of from where such questions were arising, Lizzy tried to answer the best she could, and from her heart. "Sometimes, Georgiana, its impossible to judge the intentions and qualities of other correctly on our own. I have always relied on Jane's opinion to help me see truth where I might be blinded by bias or prejudice. If you like, you can trust me with any of your concerns and we can help each other to make the right choices. I will help you as best as a sister can."

"Oh Lizzy, thank you, I'm so happy you will be my sister." If Georgie said anything more, Lizzy did not hear as she fell into a deep dreamless sleep.

Chapter 14

The sun sat high in the sky before most of the guests at the Sedwick House arose to partake of the hearty breakfast laid out for them by the cook and the mistress of the house. The remnants of sleep seemed to have dulled everyone's mind and stilted conversation over the meal, with the exception of the Professor and Darcy, who seemed wide awake following their early morning ride.

"Miss Elizabeth, I understand from Darcy that you enjoy ambling about the countryside. I would like to recommend our forest, it is one of the most beautiful within fifty miles. I hope you might have a chance to lose your self in it today. I always say a walk among the beauty God created can raise even the lowest of spirits."

Lizzy smiled at the easy manner of the Professor, how he seemed to make their visit seem like a holiday when it was, indeed, far from a pleasure trip. She wondered then what type of man old Mr. Darcy must have been to have had such a friend, and mused as to whether he would have accepted her as his son's bride. "I thank you, Professor, I believe I will take you up on that offer. Mr. Darcy has indicated we will not set off again until tomorrow, and if I am to be locked in a carriage for another whole day I must get my exercise now, do you not agree?"

"I do certainly agree, and if you don't mind the company of an old man, I would be happy to show you my favorite paths and the very best climbing trees, if you would like." Lewisham winked at Lizzy and she laughed, agreeing that they should set out directly after the meal.

As Lizzy and Lewisham set out on their excursion, Darcy took the opportunity to pull Georgiana aside for a discussion, one that he had been dreading for two days complete.

"Georgie, I was hoping you might have few moments to share with your brother today? I believe I may owe you an explanation of sorts."

"Yes, I believe you do, I would be happy to hear you out." Georgiana answered him levelly, looking him square in the eye without shyness or deference to which he had grown accustomed to from her. This new side of his sister may take some time to get used to, but he was exceedingly proud of the strides she had made.

The brother and sister retired to the relative peace and quiet of the garden before their talk began in earnest. Darcy explained fully, at least to the best of his own knowledge, the situation with Elizabeth's father and the role he believed Wickham had played. He told her of the urgency needed in getting Elizabeth away from Longbourn and preventing the banns to be published before he could attempt to speak reasonably with Mr. Bennet. Georgiana listened intently, agreeing with his reasoning in all matters, yet she was still troubled.

"Fitzwilliam, how can Elizabeth trust you? You are my brother, and I know in my heart she can be assured of your faithfulness, but how can she be making the right in eloping with you, when the same would have been such a horrible mistake for me? How will I ever know whom I can trust?" The misery and confusion in her dark blue eyes tugged at Darcy's heart.

"Georgiana, you will always be able to trust me and I know you will also be able to have faith in Elizabeth as your new sister."

"But what if I am in love with someone whom you do not approve of? I know Wickham was only after my money, but what if another steward's son comes along and we are in love? Can I be sure you will be open-minded or will I be forced into the horrible decision of giving him up or marrying against your wishes?" Tears of desperation were nearly overwhelming her now.

Taking a deep breath Darcy lead her to a bench and they sat down. "Georgie, I promise you now that you will never have to make that decision. If there is true love, mutual regard, and respect on both sides I will support you in the marriage to whatever future husband you chose. I hope you will trust Elizabeth and I enough to allow us to help guide you in understanding the intentions of those who come to call upon you, but in the end the decision will be yours."

His sister looked up at him in surprise, shocked as such a radical view from her brother, her tears dried up as she queried him about his pronouncement. "You mean if I fall in love with the stable boy you will support me and allow us to marry at Pemberley?" The upturned corners of her mouth made Darcy realize he was being teased and he responded in kind.

"I would hope Georgie, that with thirty thousand pounds you will at least attract the under-gardener, but if you and the stable boy fall in love, so be it." The siblings laughed together for a few moments before Darcy brought the conversation back to a more serious topic.

"You must know Georgiana that I did not always feel this way in regard to matches, but something changed last fall, or rather I found out a truth about our family which changed my opinions. I believe you have the right to hear about our parent's wedding."

Georgiana listened for a full half hour in rapt attention over the story of the elopement of Anne and George Darcy, how her brother had come to find out about it from the Professor, and how that one fact had changed his entire view of winning Elizabeth's hand.

"So you see, the rule that elopement is always wrong does not quite stand-up any more does it?" Darcy concluded.

Georgie contemplated all that she had learned and all she knew, and discovered a little piece of wisdom to answer her own question. "No, I see eloping is not always right or wrong, but I do see one similarity in all three situations--the correct decisions were made because we all had people we could trust and confide in. I had you to help me see that eloping with Wickham would have been a huge mistake; papa and mama had Professor Lewisham and Mrs. Reynolds, who we all know are the wisest of people; and you and Elizabeth have our cousin, Mr. Bingley, and Jane to trust in helping to make the right decisions."

Darcy smiled at her astute observation and embraced his little sister who was growing up far too quickly. "And we have you, too, Georgie, we have you." Georgiana's eyes again filled with tears, but these were ones of happiness that she was so fortunate to have such a brother.

********
While the Darcy siblings walked in the garden, Lizzy and the Professor were having a conversation on the same topic as they ambled along the main path stretching amongst the tall and broad trees of the old forest.

"Are you telling me that Darcy's parents eloped!" Elizabeth was all astonishment. She had listened to the whole of the story without a word, but the magnitude of the revelation was now sending her head spinning a hundred directions. Lewisham continued, as Lizzy concentrated on the ground in front of her as she walked.

"Indeed, we discussed this on our morning ride, Darcy believed you should be told so you would understand why he trusted my sister and I with your secret. We thought it best that I tell you personally since I have firsthand knowledge of the events and could answer any questions you might have honestly."

"I own that I had a feeling there was an ulterior motive to our outing this morning, but I never could have guessed this! Who else knows?" Elizabeth unconsciously quickened their pace in agitation.

"Only Darcy, his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds and myself, even my sister does not know." The Professor stopped their progress, before Lizzy had them moving at run, and leaned heavily on his walking stick

"What about the Colonel and Georgiana?"

"I believe Darcy may be telling Georgie as we speak. She, too, has the right to know about her parents, but it's a delicate topic for a such a young woman, and I'm sure Darcy is having a difficult time broaching it with her. As for the Colonel, I do not believe he or Bingley will be privy to such knowledge, it is a dangerous secret and should be kept as close as possible." The gravity of the Professor's tone did not go unnoticed.

"I do see that, you can be assured of my silence on the subject. But why was it so important that I know about this now?"

"I believe your fiancé wanted to give you hope that these kinds of situations have turned out well in the past, and perhaps let you know that Darcy men have a history of defying and then winning over the fathers of their prospective brides?" The companions laughed amiably at the suggestion, and as they turned to walk back in the direction of the house, Lizzy thanked the Professor for all he had accomplished on their behalf.

"It truly was the least I could do Miss Bennet, Darcy has been like a son to me, especially after the death of his father. When I saw him last month, I could tell by the spark in his eyes when he talked about you, that he had fallen in love with you, just as George had for Anne." Lewisham looked off into the trees, recalling the infectious happiness of his old friend when he had met Anne.

Suddenly Elizabeth made the connection concerning Darcy's trip to Oxfordshire after the fire at Netherfield. "So you are the old friend he spoke with, that convinced him to offer for me? Then I must thank you once again for my happiness."

"He needed no convincing to marry you, Miss Bennet, he required only a little reassurance that he was not forsaking the memory of his parents by doing so, and, indeed, it was the very facts I imparted to you today that made Darcy realize that being true to oneself, even in defiance of familial duty, can be the correct answer at times." The pair neared the edge of the forest once again and could just make out the outline of Sedwick House.

"I am living proof of that very lesson, Professor. By coming away with Darcy I have thrown off my duty to family, but I have no regrets, even if I never see papa again." Lewisham caught the twinge of sadness entered Elizabeth's voice and offered some semblance of comfort.

"When I received Darcy's express requesting lodging at my sister's home, I could not believe such history could repeat, after all, what father could dare disapprove of Fitzwilliam Darcy! But, he explained that Wickham had a hand in it all, and one cannot underestimate the damage the lies of a scoundrel can cause. Do not fault your father entirely, for I have seen many a wise and generous man taken in by George Wickham, including my own dear friend George Darcy."

"I know you are right" Elizabeth reasoned "and I can forgive my father his treatment of me, but I do not know I can ever truly forgive him for treating Fitzwilliam so abominably."

"Well, if I had any doubt before now, I am sure you and Darcy are completely in love." Lizzy looked at him quizzically, wondering how her last comments could provide such proof. Smiling at her Lewisham continued. "Just this morning your young man made a similar claim, insisting that he would forgive your father any transgression, except his infamous treatment of you." At this comment, Lizzy graced Lewisham with a brilliant smile, the kind that only comes from understanding that you are cherished by the best man in the world.

Reaching the front of the house, the companions and entered the parlor to find the rest of the party merrily amusing themselves, with Georgiana and the Colonel at the pianoforte, and Darcy, Jane, Mrs. Sedwick and Bingley playing cards. Lizzy shook her head in amazement at how much fun everyone seemed to be having on their little adventure. It truly felt as though they were all on holiday. Everyone she loved most was in this room, with only the addition of the Gardiners, she believed she could have the perfect wedding.

*****************

That afternoon passed relatively uneventfully, and as Elizabeth and Georgiana made their way upstairs to retire for the evening, Elizabeth asked her future sister the one question she had been dying know all night. "Georgie, do you know where our final destination will be? It seems to have become quite a royal secret!"

"I'm sorry Lizzy, I have no idea." Georgie's answered with what appeared to be complete innocence, but Lizzy believed she had seen a small smirk appear and then quickly disappear on the girl's countenance. Though it could have been a trick of the light, Lizzy was unsure.

As they climbed under the covers, Lizzy could not stop herself from wondering about how odd Darcy had been acting all day. If she did not know better, she would have thought he was avoiding her. When the couple were able to speak briefly in the drawing room after dinner, he seemed quite anxious to get back on the road tomorrow, almost as giddy as a school boy, but no matter how much she questioned and hinted, he would not tell her where they were going. Annoyed at his reticence, Lizzy questioned the Colonel, the Professor, Mrs. Sedwick, Bingley and even Jane. The most she could ascertain was that the original party, with the addition of the Professor, would leave Sedwick House tomorrow afternoon and travel through the night, arriving at their destination in the morning. It seemed to be important to Darcy that the journey end during daylight.

*********

While the visitors to Sedwick House were preparing for bed that night, Mr. Bennet was settling himself in his room at the Red Lion Inn near Cheapside. Having left Longbourn that morning, the gentlemen had first attempted to locate Mr. Wickham and urge the Lieutenant to join him on the quest to find his daughters. Unfortunately, upon arrival at the encampment, Mr. Bennet was informed that Colonel Forster had taken Mr. Wickham to London on an important mission. They had left Meryton just the day before. The temporary commanding officer had no information as to how long the assignment might last or when Wickham would return. Alas this was not to be the last disappointment Mr. Bennet would suffer that day.

Determined to continue with his objective, with or without assistance, Mr. Bennet set out for London on the pretense of visiting his brother Gardiner to discuss certain mutual business ventures. Upon arrival he found the Gardiners were not at home, but the servant answering the door handed him a letter from his brother-in-law.

Mr. Bennet's first inspection of the letter had occurred on the steps in front of the Gardiners' home, and was far too cursory a read to decipher the true meaning of the missive. So, upon reaching his room for the night, Mr. Bennet removed his coat, laying it aside on the chair and once again unfolded the note:

My Dear Brother,

If you are reading this than you have indeed come to London in search of Elizabeth and Jane, as we anticipated. We have heard from your daughter, and as far as we can tell she is safe. I write this in haste and can tell you no more than we are on our way to ascertain her whereabouts and provide whatever protection we are able. We would offer you lodging at our home during our absence, but my wife suggested your stay while we are out of town may raise eyebrows and encourage questions and rumors that would only increase the anxiety to your family. Take a room at the Red Lion Inn, we will send word as soon as humanly possible. Rest assured we have Elizabeth's best interests at heart.

God Bless You,

E. Gardiner

Upon first reading, Mr. Bennet was shocked that Elizabeth had contacted the Gardiners. His initial belief was that Darcy had already abandoned her, but on second thought that seemed unlikely considering all the trouble the man had gone to in order to steal his daughter away and set her up as his mistress.

Folding the letter back up and stuffing it in his pocket, Mr. Bennet wearily sank himself into the chair by the fire, contemplating whether Lizzy even really knew what the scoundrel intended to do with her. Mr. Bennet was sure Jane had no idea of the ultimate outcome of Darcy's plans or she would never have assisted in the ruination the entire Bennet family. Angry at the Gardiners for not including him in their actions, his first inclination was to set off on his own in search of his eldest daughters, but in truth he had no idea where to begin. So, instead, he would stay at the Inn and await word from the his brother and sister, while at the same time searching out Wickham in London and requesting his assistance due of his superior knowledge of Darcy and his habits. Tonight he would try to rest, knowing tomorrow would be a long and tiring day.

Chapter 15

The Darcy carriage rolled North from Sedwick House the next day with, now, four gentleman accompanying on horseback. Elizabeth spent the hours reading, chatting quietly with her companions or watching out the window, marveling at the changes in the countryside as they passed through rougher terrain, where the hills began to rise more steeply around them.

As he had arranged throughout their journey, Darcy sent horses on ahead so that changes could be accomplished, quickly and attract the least amount of attention as the party traveled overnight. The routines begun on the first leg of the journey continued and the ladies spent little time out of the carriage at each stop. Mrs. Sedwick had packed copious amounts of food, including fruits, cheeses and bread, so that they need not stop for any meals along their way. The ladies certainly had the advantage over the gentlemen in being able to rest some in the carriage, and despite the rough road, when night descended Elizabeth found the motion soon lulled her and her companions to sleep.

Sunlight streaming through the window awoke Lizzy the next morning, and thr young lady was surprised to find that she had slept most of the journey away. Sitting up to straighten her dress and rub the stiffness from her neck, Lizzy found the other ladies too, were in various states of waking. Only Georgie appeared bright eyed as if she had awoken some time ago. The younger girl was watching impatiently out the window as if expecting to see something exciting at any moment.

"Georgie, have you spotted the giants, or is there something else that has caught your attention?" Lizzy teased.

Not having realize the other women had yet awoken, Georgiana startled upon hearing Lizzy's voice, but she recovered quickly enough to give a satisfactory if curious response.

"I'm just waiting to see something in particular that I cannot wait to show you." Georgie did not even turn to look at her future sister, choosing instead to keep her constant vigil.

"Then you recognize where we are? You've made this journey before, have you?" Lizzy tried to keep her voice causal, but she was sure her anxiousness was evident nonetheless. Her eyes followed Georgie's gaze to discover any clues to their whereabouts, but saw nothing but the road and rising peaks on either side. The were much farther north, of that she was sure.

"I have made it on occasion." The noncommittal response was not what Lizzy had hoped for, but she knew not to expect anything more, when it was obvious the Darcys were keeping their destination a secret.

Perhaps another hour or two passed, for the sun was coming closer to its highest point in the sky, when the carriage slowed its pace a noticeably and turned down a secondary road. Lizzy noted that Georgiana, at this point, looked as if she were ready to jump out and begin running beside the horses. On either side of them were forests and groves that looked well maintained, as if they were part of a large estate. The party traveled perhaps another half mile, the road rising all the time, when Georgie moved to open the window to the carriage, causing all the ladies to reach for their shawls in unison.

"I'm sorry it will be cold, but we must open the window if you are to see it properly!" Georgie's grin widened and eyes sparkled in delight. Darcy brought his horse close to the window from which Georgie was watching and, as they approached a break in the trees he motioned for the driver to stop.

Elizabeth gasped when she looked in the direction Georgie pointed, spying, across the valley, the most beautiful stone house, set prominently upon a rise, and backed by a ridge of high wooded hills. In the front of the house a stream swelled into a small lake and them meandered back into the forest to the left side. The natural splendors of the forest, the lake, the stream and the hills framed the house as if it were a master's work of art, and before Darcy said a word to her, Lizzy knew upon what house she was gazing, and she whispered the name quietly as if to herself: "Pemberley."

Darcy' smiled. His voice, soft and rich, exuded pleasure and no small amount of pride as he questioned his fiancée. "How do you like your knew home, Elizabeth?"

"Beautiful" was the only word that came to her at that moment, and Darcy seemed well pleased by Lizzy's loss of the powers of speech.

After a few moments, Darcy motioned the driver on and they rode on toward the house.

Georgiana looked on as her future sister stared out the window, unable to take her eyes from the building. "Are you pleased Lizzy? Do you like it?"

"How could I not be pleased Georgie, I am in awe of it. It is as if the house was carved from one the peaks, for it belongs exactly where it stands, it is perfectly sublime."

As the carriage pulled up to the courtyard, Elizabeth's attention was snatched away from her private fairytale and brought immediately back to reality as she spotted the grim and anxious faces of her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, who had apparently had just descended from their own coach not long ago, and were apprehensively awaiting the appearance of their nieces.

Mr. Darcy himself handed each of the ladies down from the carriage, and as soon as Lizzy and Jane reached firm footing, their relatives, caring little for any breach of propriety rushed over to greet them.

"Oh girls thank goodness you are alive and appear well." Maddy Gardiner embraced Lizzy and Jane turn. "We have been so worried about both of you ever since we received your letters. What has happened to cause all this uproar?"

Darcy warily stood just a few steps behind Elizabeth, well within reach to rescue his beloved should these relatives have similar inclinations and attitudes to that of Mr. Bennet.

Lizzy turned to Darcy questioningly and he approached requesting introductions to her aunt and uncle.

"Mr. Darcy, this is my Aunt and Uncle from London, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner." Darcy bowed graciously and apologized for presuming to write to them without formal introduction, but insisted, in light of the situation, such communication was necessary.

Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner politely excused the breach in propriety, but were, as yet, unsure of what to make of the young man before them. He had, indeed, expressed himself uncommonly well in the letter sent along with Lizzy's introduction and they keenly understood what he had requested of them. The Gardiners had followed the directions of the letter, which requested their presence at Pemerley, primarily to gauge the attitude of their nieces and to ensure their safety. Whether they would assist Mr. Darcy in his plan, or attempt to convince their nieces to return to their senses and to Longbourn instead, remained to be seen.

Darcy took it upon himself to make all the other necessary introductions and escorted them into the house. Georgiana was given the responsibility of entertaining the party in the parlor, while Darcy and the Colonel retired to his study briefly on an urgent matter.

The air in the parlor was thick with tension and no matter how much Georgiana's conversational skills had improved over the last few months, making this group feel at ease was beyond her powers. As she spoke with Mrs. Reynolds and ordered refreshments, she desperately wished her cousin was in the room to lift everyone's spirits, since it seemed even Bingley was uncomfortable in this situation.

Luckily for Georgiana, Professor Lewisham acknowledged her difficulties and came to her rescue, engaging Mr. Gardiner and Bingley in a conversation concerning sport. Then, in a stroke of genius, Lizzy recalled that her Aunt had lived nearby in Lambton during her childhood, and was able to engage all the ladies in a discussion of the beauties of the surrounding country.

After a scant quarter of an hour, the Colonel and Darcy emerged from the study. Colonel Fitwilliam, carrying a parcel with him, came into the parlor to take his leave of the party.

"I am truly sorry I will be leaving such engaging company so soon, but I hope to be back in a few days. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner it was a pleasure to meet you and I hope I shall see you again upon my return." With those words, he said farewell, gave Georgie a peck on the cheek and set off again on one of Darcy's horses that was saddled and waiting for him in the courtyard.

A servant came with tea and refreshments just as the Colonel was leaving, allowing Darcy to pull his sister aside briefly to speak in relative solitude.

"My dear sister, I know you wish to be a part of all our plans, but it may be easier for the Gardiners, if you were not present for the discussions which may be frank and embarrassing. I promise you I will keep you apprised of whatever plans will soon be made."

"I understand perfectly Fitzwilliam, I will excuse myself to rest from the journey and then instruct Mrs. Reynolds that no servants should disturb the parlor, is that to your satisfaction?"

"That would be excellent, thank you Georgie, and wish me luck."

"You don't need luck brother, you are a Darcy after all." His sister smiled impishly and set about excusing her self due to excessive fatigue. The professor too, left, but not before telling Darcy he would be in the library should he be needed for any reason.

With the precipitous departures of three of the party, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were left with their fiancées, the Gardiners, and a great many questions. Darcy chose tackle the topic they were all eager to discuss.

"Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner, as I mentioned in my letter to you both, I have invited you here to my home in the hopes of garnering your assistance in finding middle ground with your brother, Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth and I are engaged to be married, but due to a misunderstanding, and what I believe to be a malicious attack upon my character, Mr. Bennet has refused to allow our marriage and has instead, engaged Elizabeth, against her will, to her cousin, Mr. Collins."

Here, Mrs. Gardiner, gasped. She not only disapproved forced engagements, she'd also received enough correspondence from her nieces on the subject of Mr. Collins to know a match to Elizabeth would not be a happy union by any means.

"We have, I believe, been able to prevent the banns from being published and have hopefully avoided scandal as far as possible. I want Elizabeth to have her father's blessing and all her family with her at her wedding, and have undertaken this plan in order to bring about a reconciliation to everyone's satisfaction and avoid elopement to Scotland. However, please be assured, if Mr. Bennet cannot be reasoned with, Elizabeth and I will be on our way to Gretna Green."

The focus of attention of the party then changed to Elizabeth as she explained all that had happened between herself and her father. But it was not until Jane spoke about their father's irrational behavior that the Gardiners seemed truly convinced.

"But what exactly caused this misunderstanding?" Lizzy blushed at Mrs. Gardiner's query, knowing their indiscretions would now need to be confessed, but Darcy took responsibility in order to spare Lizzy as much discomfort as possible.

Darcy began by detailing his history with Wickham (except for Georgiana's part in the story, of which even Elizabeth was unaware) and the man's efforts to malign Darcy's character throughout Hertfordshire and elsewhere. In addition, Darcy explained his error in taking minor liberties with Lizzy, prior to obtaining her father's consent to the engagement, and their mutual belief that Wickham used these indiscretions to further poison Mr. Bennet's attitude toward Darcy.

Although some of the mystery had been solved for Mr. Gardiner there were still several pieces that did not seem to fit in the puzzle. "I certainly understand and share my brother-in-law concern over your disreputable behavior, but I do not understand why he would engage Lizzy to Collins instead of simply "forcing" the two of you to marry?"

Mr. Darcy replied in agreement. "We do not understand his motive either, and he refused to explain it to me when I went to speak with him, or to Lizzy any number of times she begged for an answer. We hoped you might agree to act as a conduit for communication between myself, Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet."

The Gardiners looked at each other, still unsure of the truth of the matter and Darcy realized they may need time alone with their nieces to be reassured.

"Bingley and I will leave you with Miss Bennet and Elizabeth so you may talk over all that has transpired. We will be in the library with the Professor. Should you need Bingley or I, please ring for one of the servants and they will locate us."

Lizzy thank him with a small smile and a knowing look as the gentlemen left the room. Mrs. Gardiner spoke first after the door closed. "Lizzy are you sure you are alright? I know that a man of such power and wealth as Mr. Darcy can hold a sway over a woman, I want to be sure you have not been forced into anything against your will. Your uncle and I will do anything we must in order to see you safe, so please tell us the truth, has Mr. Darcy hurt you in anyway?"

"Oh, Aunt Maddy, No! Do you really think that Jane would be sitting here agreeing with me and assisting in this plot if Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley were not the best of men? I know this all looks very strange, but truly Fitzwilliam is doing all of this so I will be happy. He would just as soon has us on our way to Scotland, I am sure of it."

"I'm just not sure what should be done Lizzy, we want you both to be happy, but we cannot forsake your father's wishes, he is the head of your family." Their aunt appeared unsure of which way to turn or how to act, but their uncle soon made up his mind.

"Well Maddy, I don't know much about Mr. Darcy, but I do not appreciate the idea of my brother refusing to listen to the good sense of his eldest daughters and arranging a marriage for Lizzy to a man she utterly detests." Turning to his nieces he addressed them gravely. "We shall stay and carefully observe your young men, we're not consenting your elopement by any means, but perhaps we can help bring your father back to his right mind!"

In turn, Jane and Elizabeth embraced their aunt and uncle and rang for a servant to bring Darcy and Bingley back. Upon the return of the gentlemen to the parlor, Darcy outlined for his guests how he hoped they could encourage dialogue between the parties and briefly informed them of the Colonel's important mission to London.

Seeing his guests were all tired, Darcy rang for Mrs. Reynolds. "I'm sure your all weary after traveling, allow me to have Mrs. Reynolds show you to your rooms, we'll dine at seven if that is acceptable?" The Gardiners and Jane retired immediately, leaving only Elizabeth, who wished to speak with Darcy alone.

Once her relatives had left the room, Elizabeth approached her fiancé and reached her hand out to grasp his. Lost in his own thoughts, the gesture surprised but delighted the gentleman, and he bestowed a handsome smile upon her.

"Did you not wish to rest, Lizzy? I can show you to your rooms myself if you wish." Despite his unceasing propriety, Lizzy caught just the slightest hint of fire in Darcy's eyes as he spoke and she knew where his mind tended. In truth hers was not far behind, but nevertheless, Lizzy did her best to ignore the physical desired that arose in her each time he came near and suggested another kind of physical activity.

"I am not tired my love, actually I find myself invigorated by the beauties of Pemberley surrounding me and cannot even think of resting. Would you do me the honor of taking me on a tour of the paths and the gardens?"

At this Lizzy caught the rare sight of Darcy's dimples. "Even in the harshest of winters I find beauty everywhere at Pemberley, and even more so now that you are come. Let us find you a warm coat and gloves and then I can show you the best parts of your new home." With this pronouncement Lizzy was whisked out of the house as quickly as Darcy could manage.

The couple ambled the paths close to the house and Darcy pointed out various view and parts of the estate he wished to explore with her at a later date. They delighted in simply being alone for the first time in many days, although they refrained from overt displays of their mutual affection beyond a chaste kiss or two, knowing full well the Gardiners or Georgiana could look out their windows upon them at any moment.

Deep in contemplation they strolled in companionable silence for sometime before Darcy noticed Elizabeth's brow knit in what looked like concern.

“You seem preoccupied my love, what is wrong.”

“Truly it is nothing of import. I was just considering that perhaps my father was not entirely wrong in his assessment of me. I know that Wickham somehow lied to him, and caused him to say such terrible things, but, in truth am I not exactly what papa said I was? Had you not been such an honorable gentleman, I might not be your fiancé, but rather your mistress. I was ready and willing to be your mistress had you asked, perhaps my father's words about my character were not far off the mark.”

Darcy stopped walking and took hold of Elizabeth's arm, turning her to face him on the path. She would not look him in the eye, too ashamed of her own conduct. Darcy put two fingers under her chin and raised her head to look him in the eye.

“Elizabeth, you must believe me when I say this, though I understand why your father did what he did, there is still no excuse for what he said about you. His words and the sentiment behind them are patently false. You are the most virtuous women I have ever encountered and nothing that you or I do together out of love for one another could ever change that.” Elizabeth smiled a little as Darcy continued. “This terrible love has made us both act rashly, but everything we have done, said, and felt has been born from our true feelings for one another. There will never be anything immoral or licentious about our love, Lizzy, be damned what the world says.”

Darcy arms encircled her and brought her head to his chest. Lizzy sighed with relief and her heart filled with love for this man who made her feel so safe and so at home, as if nothing outside of his embrace could ever harm her.

After a few moments Darcy released her and they continued on their walk with her arm in his, again enjoying each other's company, with little need for words. It was Darcy again who spoke first, almost hesitantly, "Lizzy, my love, I have a favor to ask of you."

Elizabeth looked at him questioningly, unsure of what could cause such reticence in such a man as Mr. Darcy. "What is it my love? I will do whatever you ask."

"Our conversation just now reminded me of how fragile a person's sensibilities can be, faced with certain situations. Even you, who always seems so self-assured can express so many doubts." Pausing to think, Darcy left Lizzy quite confused as to where this conversation was heading. Soon enough, however he continued. "I know that you and Georgiana seem to have become quite close, am I correct?"

"Oh yes, of course, I cannot wait for her to become my sister. She will be as dear to me as Jane, I can promise you."

"I am confident of your sincerity and I trust you implicitly in the information I am about to divulge to you. I must tell you one additional fact concerning my families dealings with Wickham."

Elizabeth listened in utter amazement as Darcy unfolded the story of Georgiana's near elopement with Wickham. As he completed the narrative, speaking of Georgiana's withdrawal into herself following the incident, the great efforts Mrs. Annesley made in bringing her back out of her shell, and the tremendous strides Darcy had witnessed since her arrival in Hertfordshire.

"That wretched scoundrel!" Elizabeth nearly spat out the harsh epithet. "I hate him for everything he has done, but most especially for what he has done to such a sweet girl as your sister. No wonder you despise him as you do, I am surprised you and the Colonel have not run him through!"

"Oh believe me dearest, only Richard's good sense prevented me from such action. I am sure I should have told you all about this earlier, but it never seemed to be the right time. I thought of it now because I am sure that Wickham's name will once again be often mentioned, and although Georgie has informed me that she is strong enough withstand any dealings with the man, I want to be sure she has someone close by she can trust should she need to confide in another person. I do not want her to bear the burden all by herself, and though she talks to me, I know she would share more with you." Darcy's eyes pleaded for her understanding.

"I am honored that you have such faith in me to bestow a second rather important family secret upon me. I will of course be Georgie's confidant. Do I have your permission to inform her that you have spoken to me about it? I assume she will not be forthcoming with her feelings unless I have your tacit approval."

Darcy nodded, agreeing with her logical assessment of Georgie's character. "Richard, Bingley and I are the only ones who know of this, I trust your sister implicitly and have no qualms should you share this information with Jane, but I ask that it go no farther."

"Of course, my love, you have my word." Lizzy reached up to caress his face, still lined with concern for his sister and for herself. Moved by her compassionate gesture, Darcy bent a bestowed a soft kiss upon Elizabeth. Indulging in the comfort he found in her sweet lips and tender caress, Darcy lingered over her for a moment longer than was wise.

Pulling away a mere second before he lost himself, Darcy suggested they return inside and procure a chaperone, posthaste.

Chapter 16

Awaking to sunlight pouring into the windows of his room, Mr. Bennet rubbed his eyes, rimmed with the dark circles of a restless night. He had been in London now for five days and had not heard a peep from the Gardiners, nor had he had any success in locating the whereabouts of Lt. Wickham. If he had not know better, he would think Wickham had been kidnapped!

Just yesterday, Mr. Bennet had gone to the militia headquarters to enquire for the third time whether Wickham or Col. Forrester had checked in and received his message. For the third time the answer he'd received was negative. Mr. Bennet was growing frustrated with his powerlessness in this entire situation. His daughters had been traveling alone with men for five days now, and he saw no hope in keeping Lizzy's indiscretion from Mr. Collins. In the despair of the moment his wife's words suddenly rung true: what would become of them all now!

To top it all, the walls of the inn were apparently quite thin and someone with, shall we say, an appetite for the young ladies had taken the adjacent room. Despites his attempts to sleep, Mr. Bennet had clearly heard the voice of a man mixed with the dulcet tones of a young woman in the room next door. What had followed, for most of the night, were sounds that made even an old gentleman like himself blush and he was appalled that a reputable establishment like the Red Lion would allow such blatant indiscretion by its clientele. He had a mind to complain to the owner, and rose to dress for the day intending upon having a word with the proprietor before continuing on his search for Wickham.

Opening his door to leave, Mr. Bennet was shocked to catch a glimpse of none other than Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam entering the adjacent room where the scandalous behavior had occurred the night before. Recalling that the Colonel had been a cousin to Darcy and probably a companion on the evening they had absconded with his eldest and second eldest, Mr. Bennet was stunned by this turn of events. He was not surprised to find the Colonel engaged in the same type of behavior that his cousin was known for, but a wave of nausea engulfed him as he wondered about the identity of the woman in the room. Suddenly unsteady on his feet, Mr. Bennet stepped back across the threshold of the room and closed the door to consider his best options.

His emotions ran the gamut from disgust, to sheer anger and back to numbing fear that it was one of his daughters who had been the Colonel's companion the evening before. His first inclination was to burst into the room and demand to know where Lizzy and Jane were, but knowing the Colonel to be armed he thought better of it. Breathing heavily, his mind raced from one option to another--from bursting in with the innkeeper's gun to finding the authorities. He was on the verge of rejecting the last of his options, when he noticed two distinct masculine voices coming from the next room. As hard as he tried, Mr. Bennet could not make out the conversation, but decided to step outside again to see if he could hear better in the hallway. Though eavesdropping was perhaps beneath him, Mr. Bennet felt the exigent circumstances provided absolution for such misdeeds.

Returning to the door and opening it just a crack, the older gentlemen could not believe his luck. The door to the Colonel's room had been left ajar--not sufficient to see inside, but enough to allow sound to escape. Positioning himself beside the hinged portion of the frame, Mr. Bennet could make out every word spoken between the occupants of the room and in the ensuing moments what he would hear would bring Mr. Bennet's world crashing down around him.
****************************

While Mr. Bennet was listening at the door in London, back at Pemberley, Elizabeth was growing restless. The Gardiners had sent a express to her father the evening before, begging for him to submit to a meeting between himself, Mr. Gardiner and Darcy at a neutral location. Though she knew he may not yet have received it, she was already tired of waiting for a response. As she wandered silently amongst the portraits in the Pemberley's gallery, she mused as to what Darcy's mother might have done in this situation. Stopping before the portrait of Lady Anne, one taken in the bloom of youth with a small version of Fitzwilliam at her side, she stared at the beautiful woman and her son. The similarities in their facial expressions were remarkable. Darcy was perhaps three when he sat for the painting, but his dimples and the familiar mop of curly dark locks were present. Even then there was a stateliness about the boy which matched his mother's.

"What am I to do Lady Anne?" Elizabeth whispered her plea as much to herself as to the portrait, but she was surprised when, as if in answer to her question, a response formulated in her mind--trust him--the words repeated over and over again in her head--trust him. Suddenly she knew what she had to do and raced out of the portrait gallery to find her fiancé.

*************************************

Darcy sat in his study perusing the paperwork he'd had drawn up in anticipation of his marriage to Elizabeth. The settlement sum was substantial, but far less than she deserved for the happiness she had brought to his life. He would bring the terms with him to the meeting with Mr. Bennet, perhaps the truth in print would finally make the man rational.

Placing the documents in his travel case, he heard a knock at the door and bid the person to enter. In a flash, Elizabeth rushed into the room and into his arms. It was not an unwelcome surprise, but he was curious as to the reason for her visit, nonetheless, and after giving her lips a soft and chaste kiss, he queried her.

"Fitzwilliam, I have been thinking. I know you have arranged this plan so carefully in order to protect me and to bring about a reconciliation with my father. You have done it all with my happiness in mind, but I just want you to know, that what would make me the happiest in the world is to be your wife, this instant." She looked him in the eye, the meaning of her words apparent to him in her every look.

"What about your sister and your aunt and uncle? Do you not want them to be there for your wedding?" Darcy ran his hand across his chin in consternation, absorbing what Lizzy was suggesting.

"I will tell my sister and my aunt, and you should speak with Georgie and Bingley, I am confident they will understand and support us. We can hold a public ceremony later, with Jane and Bingley, but now let us go to Gretna Green, marry and ensure that no one can tear us from each other? I cannot even think of the possibility of being forced to marry Mr. Collins!"

Darcy was mesmerized by the twinkle in her beautiful eyes, and in truth he longed to have her as his wife. "What of your father?"

Lizzy met each of his concerns with a reasonable answer. "You can still meet with him, have my uncle set the date for a week from now, then we will be safely married and back here."

"But what of the settlement, Lizzy? I want to do everything right for you and for our future together."

"I trust you, Fitzwilliam, you can still make the settlement, and I will be happy with whatever the amount, you know I have no desire for wealth."

Darcy had to admit her arguments were very persuasive and much in line with his own thinking.

"Alright, if your sister and aunt give you their approval, I will speak with my steward, authorizing him to act on my behalf to make the settlement upon you official, and share the information with your uncle. Can you be ready to depart in two hours?" A hint of a smile graced the young man's lips as his fiancée's eyes lit up with glee.

"I shall be ready in one hour, sir!" After kissing him soundly on the lips, Lizzy rushed out of the room, so as not to lose a moment, and ran directly to the parlor to consult Jane and Mrs. Gardiner, while Darcy called in Mr. Gardiner and his steward to discuss the new arrangements.

It would not be accurate to say that either of the Gardiners were particularly pleased with the change in plans, but after observing their niece and Mr. Darcy over the last two days, seeing the substantial amount of property being settled upon their niece, and negotiating the presence of a chaperone in the form of Mrs. Reynolds for the journey, the Gardiners were reasonably satisfied. It was indeed difficult to deny a man of Mr. Darcy's station anything for which he condescended to ask and they found little reason to further disappoint Lizzy who had already suffered so much at the hand of her father. It was agreed the pair were certainly in love and the Gardiners smiled to themselves at the expectation of future happiness in the match.

Darcy and Lizzy invited Bingley and Jane to accompany them, and though tempted, the other couple decided to wait and take a more traditional route to the alter. It was, for them, less of a risk that Mr. Bennet would disapprove of their union. After kissing a supremely happy Georgiana goodbye, Darcy grasped Lizzy's hand and led her to the awaiting carriage which was already occupied by Mrs. Reynolds. The couple smiled from ear to ear as they waved goodbye to their relations from the window, and the last clip-clop of departing horses hooves was heard on Pemberley's drive not one hour after Lizzy had first left Mr. Darcy's study that morning.

****************************
Back at the Red Lion, the conversation Mr. Bennet overheard was in everyway shocking.

It was Fitzwilliam's voice he heard first.

"I saw the barmaid leave your room this morning Wickham, I guess you habits have not changed at all."

"What are you about stalking around my room? Did you want the little wench for yourself? I grant you she was a nice piece of--------" Before Wickham finished the sentence, the Colonel cut him off abruptly.

"Enough of your revolting talk! I am not here to listen to you discuss last evening's sport."

"Oh come now Fitzwilliam, you are a soldier, I doubt you are shocked by a little colorful speech."

"No but I am shocked at you licentious behavior, shocked and grieved."

"Oh quit acting like Darcy and lecturing me on my habits, let's get to the point. What are you doing here for Fitzwilliam?"

"I have an offer to make you."

"What offer could you possible make that would tempt me to accept?"

"Well, Wickham, it has come to my cousin Darcy's attention that you have disparaged not only his own reputation, but that of Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and to her father no less. Your actions have caused numerous problems, most of which I am sure you intended as revenge upon your former friend. You must know that we can no longer allow you to spread you vicious lies, while racking up debts and ruining tradesman's daughters in your spare time."

"You can't do anything to me Fitzwilliam, I will make my near elopement with Georgiana public knowledge."

"You never eloped with Georgiana." Fitzwilliam kept his voice even.

"You know that, Darcy knows that, and Georgie knows that, but the rest of the ton will always whisper about your poor cousin's tarnished reputation and how I probably compromised her before Darcy even got to Ramsgate."

The anger seething within the Colonel came through in his tone, but he maintained control. "I have here copies of the bank draft Darcy wrote to discharge the obligation made in his father's will, I also have documentation of all the debts Darcy has discharged on your behalf and a list of the new debts you have already amassed in Meryton. Finally, I have a list of men from Lambton and Kympton who are anxious to get their hands around your neck for what you have done to their daughters. Each of these documents have been provided to Colonel Forrester already, so your days in the militia are over."

It was Wickham's turn to be shocked and voice grew loud with indignation. "He lied to me! How long has he known?"

"I spoke to Colonel Forrester just before you left Hertfordshire, he promised to bring you here to London to keep Hertfordshire safe from you until I could gather the information I needed."

"What are my options, then, debtors prison?"

"That's one option, or I could just hand you over to Mr. Brently and Mr. Todd in Lambton, certainly they could silence you concerning your dealing with Georgiana and any other young ladies of your acquaintance."

"Why are you going through all this trouble, if you could just do away with me, then? Do you need me to tell Mr. Bennet I lied to him?"

"No Wickham, I think the proof I have with me will convince Mr. Bennet. Darcy still holds the memory of his father in high esteem, and fortunately for you, that includes his father's fondness for you. We know, however, that you cannot be trusted to stay out of Darcy's business or his life, so you have the option of debtor's prison, a lynching mob, or a one way ticket to the new world. Darcy will provide you with 3000 pounds and a ticket on a boat to America. You will be free to do as you wish, so long as you never step foot England, Scotland or Ireland or speak an ill word about Georgiana or Elizabeth Bennet. If you do step foot here again, we'll know about it and you will be sent directly to prison. If any report reaches us concerning the reputation of Georgie or Miss Elizabeth, no matter the source we will hold you directly responsible and you'll be turned over to the men in Lambton to do with you what they wish."

"I guess I do not have much of a choice now do I? 3000 pounds is a healthy sum I suppose, but is the ticket First class?"

Mr. Bennet had been listening so intently at the door that he never heard the third gentleman approach from behind. Feeling a hand upon his shoulder Mr. Bennet literally jumped in fright, his heart racing a breakneck speed.

"Have you heard all you need to hear Mr. Bennet?" Turning, he found himself staring into the jovial face of Colonel Forester and fainted dead away, falling into a heap on the floor.

The commotion brought Fitzwilliam and Wickham to the door and the three men stood in shock at the unconscious Mr. Bennet. The three carried the gentleman into his own room and splashed some cold water on his face to revive him.

After several moments of disorientation, the memories of the morning came flooding back to Mr. Bennet. He took a gulp of water Colonel Forrester had offered him a spoke directly to Fitzwilliam.

"I have been horribly wrong, you must take me immediately to Elizabeth and Darcy."

The Colonel smiled at this, "Perhaps we should wait to make sure you are fully recovered from your fall, Mr. Bennet."

"No, we leave now, I have much damage to undo."

Not wanting to delay what might prove a great source of happiness for his cousin and Miss Elizabeth, Fitzwilliam made arrangements with Colonel Forrester to keep a detailed watch on Wickham until the ticket was purchased and 3000 pounds gathered. "Do you ride Mr. Bennet?" The older gentleman nodded and the Colonel set off to procure fresh horses and send an express to his cousin concerning the coincidental turn of events.

Within two hours the pair were on the road to Pemberley.

Chapter 17

The sun nearly touched the horizon and the tenants were heading in from the fields as two horsemen approached Pemberley. They elder of the gentlemen, his face lined with guilt and concern, had said very little to his companion throughout their journey. The younger, a military man, had long since stopped attempting to make conversation and focused on the road ahead.

Dismounting, the Colonel instructed the stable boy concerning the horses and led his companion into the house. The butler announced the visitors in the drawing room where Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet rose in their astonishment to greet them.

"Papa!" Jane's voice was strained with apprehension, and unsure of her father's intensions, she did not rush to embrace him. "Jane, it is good to see you." Mr. Bennet's own unemotional response was unusual and did little to allay the fears of his daughter.

Equally concerned, Georgiana mustered all her courage to welcome Mr. Bennet and her cousin to Pemberley. "Mr. Bennet it is a pleasure to see you again, please make yourself at home. Cousin, I am happy you have returned safely." As she spoke to him she threw Fitzwilliam a puzzled look which begged for an explanation.

Colonel Fitzwilliam had pity on Georgie and made an effort to diffuse the tension. "Miss Bennet, I happened upon your father in London while he was becoming acquainted with some vital information concerning the character of one of our mutual acquaintances, and helped him to reach a new understanding of a certain attachment. Where are Miss Elizabeth and Darcy? I believe Mr. Bennet has much to say to them."

Both Jane's and Georgie's eyes grew large, completely and utterly positive that the truthful answer would not be well received by Mr. Bennet.

The newcomers instantly knew that all was not quite right, but Jane attempted to change the subject as quickly as possible.

"They are--out--at present, Papa, please come to the Library, my aunt and uncle are there and will be most pleased to see you." Jane had not really lied, she reasoned to herself. Darcy and Lizzy were truthfully "out." There was really no need to add that they were probably "out" on the Scottish moors by now.

"Jane, as much as I'd like to see the Gardiners I believe it is your sister that I owe an apology to, and I wish to get it over with as soon as may be."

Fortunately for Jane Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner had received word of their brother's arrival and made their appearance at that moment to greet him.

"Thomas! what an unexpected surprise." Mr. Gardiner reached out his hand in greeting.

"It is good to see you as well Edward, though I must say it is a good thing I did not wait for an express from you or I would have been waiting until doomsday at the Red Lion." Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrow, not unlike the gesture his second daughter made when mildly chastising a friend or family member. He was still irritated that the Gardiners had taken it upon themselves to find Elizabeth without his participation.

"We sent one several days ago, did you not receive it?" Madeline Gardiner decided to step in before the gentlemen's tempers rose.

"No, I'm sure it arrived after I had left with the Colonel. I admit, once I met up with Fitzwilliam, I was in a hurry to get here. Now perhaps the two of you could shed some light on the whereabouts of my daughter and Mr. Darcy."

"Perhaps you should have a seat, Thomas." Again Mrs. Gardiner was trying her best to keep the company calm.

"With all due respect Madeline, I do not want to have a seat, where is my daughter!" The concern and anger raising his voice an octave higher than normal.

Jane could not take anymore confrontation between her relatives and blurted out the answer to her father's question---"They've gone to Scotland!"

A deafening silence descended upon the room.

**************************

Peering into the mirror, Elizabeth watched with growing admiration as Mrs. Reynolds carefully wove a number of tiny buds into her hair and pulled a few ringlet tendrils down to accentuate the lines of her neck.

The housekeeper smiled wryly at the surprise in her future mistress's eyes. "Isn't it fortunate for us that I have some experience as a lady's maid Miss Bennet?" Elizabeth laughed in agreement. "Indeed, it is also quite fortunate you have helped with--shall we say--hasty nuptials, in the past as well."

Turning Elizabeth around to face her, Mrs. Reynolds backed up take in the full picture of the young lady. "Miss Bennet, I declare you to be one of the most beautiful brides I have ever beheld, that dress is quite striking, where-ever did you find it on such short notice?"

Smiling in delight at the compliment, Elizabeth replied. "It is the dress I wore when I first danced with Fitzwilliam at Netherfield, it is the my very best gown, and when we left Longbourn I made sure it was included in my trunk for just such an emergency."

Mrs. Reynolds smiled at the easiness of this woman who did not fret over meaningless baubles or finery, Miss Bennet had a simple and graceful style that complemented the master perfectly. Mrs. Reynolds was indeed pleased Fitzwilliam had finally found such a woman worthy of him.

"Come my dear, are you ready?" Lizzy nodded and they made their way out of the dressing room and into the tiny chapel. The sun had gone down an hour before, leaving only soft candlelight to illuminate the area around the pulpit. There were no more than ten pews on each side of the church, but it mattered not at all since no other friends or family would arrive to witness this ceremony. Elizabeth spied Fitzwilliam, impeccably dressed in his green coat, standing with his back to her at the head of the main aisle. He was speaking quietly with the clergyman and a young couple whom she had just met that day. Mr. and Mrs. Wyethe were apparently good friends of Darcy and lived in Scotland only a short distance from Gretna and Fitzwilliam had written to request their presence as witnesses to the ceremony. They owned a small estate which netted roughly her father's income. Peter Wyethe had attended Eton with Fitzwilliam and they had maintained a healthy correspondence for many years. His wife Mary was a the daughter of a clergyman and seemed wise beyond her years, and reminded Elizabeth much of her Aunt Gardiner.

The Wyethes spotted Lizzy and Mrs. Reynolds, and alerted Darcy. Turning to face the back of the chapel, he caught sight of his beloved, blanching in a remarkably un-Darcylike manner. She wore the dress from the Netherfield ball--she is just as I pictured her in my dreams. Overcome with love and longing, his eye remained immoveable upon her person and Lizzy blushed under his intense scrutiny, tightening her clutch upon the small bouquet of yellow flowers.

The clergyman, the Wyethes and Mrs. Reynolds took their positions as Lizzy reached her appointed place beside Darcy. Sensing her nervousness, Darcy reached out with his left hand and entwined his fingers in hers as they stood shoulder to shoulder facing the preacher. Surprised but pleased by his gesture, Lizzy's eye's ventured up to his and she graced him with a small smile of appreciation.

The preacher looked kindly upon the pair and began the ceremony he had performed so many hundred times before.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of this company, to join together this Man and this Woman in holy Matrimony; which is commended of Saint Paul to be honourable among all men: and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of God. Into this holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined. If any man can show just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace."

At these words Elizabeth's thoughts flew to her father, and for just a short moment an irrational fear rose in her heart that he had found them and would march in at any second to denounce the marriage and stop the ceremony. But, after sufficient pause the parson continued and Lizzy felt herself release the breath she had been holding.

"Wilt thou, Fitzwilliam have Elizabeth to thy wedded wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour and keep her in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?

"I will." The purposefulness with which he responded left no room for doubt as to his devotion.

"Elizabeth, Wilt thou have Fitzwilliam to thy wedded husband, to live together after Gods ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou obey him, and serve him, love, honour, and keep him in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?

Elizabeth's voice, too, rose confidently, and she smiled in open affection at her betrothed as she answered. "I will."
T
he couple exchanged their vows and Darcy reached into his pocket, and removed a small platinum ring, placing it upon Elizabeth's fourth finger and carefully reciting the words of the clergyman:

"With this Ring I thee wed, and with all my worldly goods I thee endow: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

Lizzy stared at the ring which now adorned her left hand, beautiful in its simplicity. She was now his and he was hers.

"Forasmuch as Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth, each to the other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving a Ring, and by joining hands; I pronounce that they are Man and Wife, In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

As the clergyman's last words echoed in their ears, Darcy turned to Elizabeth, taking her face in his hands and bent to bestow the gentlest of kisses upon her lips. Drawing away, but never allowing his gaze to leave her, he spoke. "My darling wife, allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." Though surprised by such a public display from her reserved husband, Lizzy smiled brightly in return and responded in the only way she could. "I love you so very much Fitzwilliam, and I always shall."

As they thanked the parson and departed the chapel hand in hand, those assembled expressed their unrestrained joy. The clergyman could rarely remember a happier or more deserving pair. Situated as he was on the Scottish border, he married many individuals motivated by lust, greed, good intentions, and occasionally love, but it had been a long time since he had so happily participated in an elopement that promised such felicity in both sides. He was most shocked to find out that it was not the wealthy gentleman's family preventing the union, but the young lady's father. Watching the party as they slipped out the door, he shook his head in wonder at what ridiculousness could possibly have caused Mr. Bennet to disapprove of such an illustrious gentleman.

Mr. and Mrs. Wyethe joined the Darcys for a celebratory supper at the nearby inn, while Mrs. Reynolds, who job as chaperone was now complete, removed herself to the small estate Darcy had rented for the week, to ensure all was well prepared to the imminent arrival of newlyweds.

******************

(Meanwhile back at Pemberley)

"They have gone to Scotland?" The sound of the words rang unnaturally in Mr. Bennet's ears. "Well we must follow them and stop the elopement, they may marry in Hertfordshire now!"

Those assembled knew such action to be futile, but no one stepped forward to speak. Finally Jane approached her father, kindly laying a hand upon his arm. "Papa, they left three days ago, they are married or will be by the time you would reach Gretna Green. Let us sit down papa."

Mr. Bennet allowed his eldest to lead him to a seat on the sofa and the other followed to take their own seats. By this time, professor Lewisham and Bingley had also joined the party, but Mr. Bennet did not even notice the new arrivals. The harsh consequences of his actions toward Lizzy and Darcy bore hard upon him and he finally understood just how irrational and unfeeling his had been to his favorite child.

As he fiddled with a loose button upon his coat, words began to tumble out of Mr. Bennet. "Mr. Wickham---I believed him, how interminably stupid could I have been? And now--now I have risked Lizzy's reputation---it could be yet in ruins for eloping---and never to have a wedding among her family--what is to be done?" His voice betrayed the intense suffering he felt.

Madeline Gardiner, in an attempt to draw a more coherent narrative from her brother-in-law, posed the question everyone there was exceedingly curious about.

"Thomas, what exactly did Mr. Wickham say that made you react the way you did to Elizabeth's engagement to Darcy?"

Without even looking up Mr. Bennet began his tale. "Wickham came to me, upon what I now know was the day Mr. Darcy had proposed to Lizzy. He told me he had seen Lizzy and Darcy in the woods together, and that they had engaged in inappropriate conduct, the kind from which a child may result." At this Georgiana gasped in shock. Mr. Bennet looked up to truly notice for the first time the mixed company he was in. "I am so sorry to grieve you Miss Darcy. What Wickham said, I know now it was utterly false. Perhaps you would not feel comfortable hearing the rest of this story? It is a sordid tale of lies."

"No, Mr. Bennet I was merely shocked by the extent of Wickham's deception--though perhaps I should not be. Please continue." Georgie shot her cousin a questioning look and he nodded his approval to her decision. With all she had seen in her life, she was old enough and wise enough to be a part of the conversation.

"Wickham continued telling me such tales I will not repeat, disparaging Mr. Darcy's character. I assume now he was telling of his own exploits and attaching Mr. Darcy's name. He described Darcy's engagement to his cousin Anne, that Anne was of a sickly constitution and could not have children. These details of course rang true, for I had independent confirmation from Mr. Collins. He then continued on, indicating that Darcy had intended to seek out a strong young woman, the daughter of a gentleman, to be his mistress and bear his heir. The plan would entail proposing to a girl from the country who had few options in life due to lack of a dowry but who still came from gentlemanly birth. Wickham insisted he had been privy to Darcy's machinations to make the girl believe he loved her and meant to marry her, convincing her to have relations with him prior to marriage. However, Darcy would conveniently delay or neglect to speak with the girl's father about the engagement until, a few weeks later, he would tell the girl, who was now much in love, that he had terrible news--his aunt, Lady Catherine would disinherit him should he refuse to marry his cousin Anne and he would lose everything. The girl then would be so in love or so compromised she had no choice but to come away with him and be his mistress."

Mr. Bennet paused here and looked up to see if everyone was following his story. Seven pairs of eyes stared at him in rapt attention, and he took this as encouragement to continue.

"Wickham was quite convincing, weaving together truths, half-truths and lies so that one was indistinguishable from another. His status as the son of the Pemberley steward, having grown up amongst the Darcys also added to his credibility. When I called Lizzy in to speak with her
I was still not completely convinced, but then she, herself, admitted to some indiscreet behavior with Mr. Darcy, saying they were secretly engaged and that Mr. Darcy would be coming to speak with me. It was as if all the pieces of the puzzle which Mr. Wickham had laid out were fitting perfectly together. All I could think of was marrying Lizzy off quickly to someone who would marry her, Collins being the only one stupid enough by my estimation not to ask questions."

Mr. Bennet again paused, allowing Bingley to lend his support. "Do not be too harsh upon yourself for believing Wickham, he has always been exceedingly good at convincing others of his honesty." A light flush crept into Georgiana's face, but no one noted it save the Colonel.

"Perhaps I should not blame myself for initially believing him, but what I said to Elizabeth and Darcy when he came to reason with me was unacceptable. At that point I was so poisoned against Mr. Darcy that I believed his every word a lie, and because of my intemperance and gullibility my daughter has been forced to elope. What can I ever do to fix this?" Mr. Bennet looked pleadingly to everyone in the room.

Jane move to his side a grasped his hand. "All will be well Papa. Darcy and Lizzy will return, you will apologize to them, no one need know they are already married and they can have a proper ceremony with Bingley and I in the spring!" As the words came out of her mouth, Jane realized what she had said, blushed scarlet and stared at her father wide-eyed. Bingley, on the other hand, looked a bit green.

A chuckle erupted from Mr. Bennet, releasing the tension in the room. "Perhaps Mr. Bingley you might want to have a word with me in private this evening, I will be quite at my leisure after supper."

"Oh yes, Mr. Bennet, I would appreciate that very much!" Smiles of both relief and happiness spread across the couple's faces simultaneously and they returned to their normal colors.

Jane's inadvertent slip had done much to put the people in the room at ease and good humour. Knowing that nothing would be decided until Darcy and Elizabeth returned to Pemberley, the party soon set aside discussion of the elopement, and instead focused on showing the newest visitor around the estate.

Mr. Gardiner finally found a moment to introduce Mr. Bennet to Professor Lewisham, and it was with little surprise to the rest of the party that the two were soon engaged in a lively discussion on the merits of a new publication by a prominent satirist.

That night, as Thomas Bennet climbed the stairs to his guest quarters at Pemberley he gazed around at the beauty and wealth evident in every inch of the surrounds, and gave a prayer of thanks to God that Mr. Darcy had been so clever as to steal his daughter away before he, himself, had relegated her to a parsonage and an extraordinarily stupid husband. Still full of regret, he wondered if his daughter was already lost to him or whether she might somehow find it in her heart to forgive him. These thoughts remained his constant companion until sleep claimed him, and they promised to return again in the morning.

********

As scrumptious as their meal had been, neither Darcy nor Lizzy had partaken of more than a few bites. The Wyethes, of course, forgave the distracted conversation of the newly married couple and made every effort to ensured no one dallied over the meal for an overly lengthy time. So long as they gave Mrs. Reynolds sufficient opportunity to prepare the honeymoon suite, the Wyethes knew their duty to be accomplished and they ushered the Darcy's to their carriage within two hours.

Settling in for the short drive to the estate, the pair remained quiet, lost in their own thoughts concerning the coming evening. Darcy caressed his wife's hand but permitted himself no further liberties not knowing if he would be capable of stopping himself once he had begun to kiss her.

Upon exiting the carriage, Elizabeth's breath caught. The most beautiful little cottage, perhaps half the size of Longbourn, stood before her, each window lighted with candles in welcome. Mrs. Reynolds met them at the door and took their coats, gloves and hats.

"Everything is prepared Mr. and Mrs. Darcy. I will be retiring to the guest house across the lane should you be in need of anything this evening." The housekeeper did not tarry long and left the pair to their own devices.
Elizabeth was truly thankful for the privacy such an arrangement would bestow. Looking around carefully she noticed the house to be decorated for the Christmas season.

"Oh Fitzwilliam, how lovely the boughs of evergreen and holly, I had nearly forgotten how close it is to Christmas!"

"Indeed and I have received my Christmas present early, on December the 7th." Grasping her wrist Darcy pulled his wife to himself and kissed her hungrily. His hands caressed her waist and hips, as her own arms snaked around his neck to her fingers buried themselves within his locks.

Darcy forced himself to pull away for the moment, uttering only a single word, "Come," as he led his bride up the stairs to their suite. In the antechamber, Lizzy spied a table and chairs sat in front of a blazing fire. Next to the furniture a bearskin run was laid out on the floor, with a picnic basket beside.

Darcy took the lead, removing his boots and jacket, inviting Lizzy to remove her own shoes and stockings for comfort. They sat cross-legged upon the bearskin run and Lizzy trailed her fingers upon the fur as Darcy poured them each a glass of wine. "Where ever would such a rug come from Fitzwilliam?"

Handing her one of the glasses, half full of rich red liquid he answered. "T'is from America and it is quite the rage among the ton this season."

Lizzy laughed in spite of herself. "I never thought of you as a man of high fashion, Mr. Darcy."

"I am full of surprises Mrs. Darcy. How is the wine?"

Taking a sip she allowed the velvet texture of the liquid run over her lips, across her tongue and down her throat. She thought she could almost taste a hint of cherry and plum as her body warmed. "Its delicious, some of the best I have ever had."

"I am glad you think so, I tasted this wine in France and have been saving this bottle for just such an occasion. Here," he handed her a piece of chocolate, "eat this and then take a sip of wine."

Lizzy followed the instructions and was amazed by the results. She closed her eyes as the intensity of cherry flavor burst over her tastebuds. Darcy's desire arose further as he watched her expressions change from wonder to bliss and satisfaction in enjoyment of the flavors.

"Mmmm, this is wonderful, I never noticed before chocolate can so alter the taste of a wine."

"Many foods will accentuate the flavor of wine, though I must admit a partiality to chocolate and certain reds."

Perhaps Darcy would have said more, but at that moment he became exceptionally distracted by a drop of wine which played upon Lizzy's bottom lip and he could think of nothing but tasting it, mixed with the flavor of her sweet mouth. Darcy leaned toward his wife and gently caressed her lips with his own, allowing his tongue to run across them to partake of the drop he had seen there. Before either consciously knew what was happening, the kiss had deepened as they reclined upon the rug, their hands wandering along the lines and curves of each other's bodies.

Darcy pulled away to look down into Lizzy's eyes. Desire played heavily upon her features and he detected nothing of fear or apprehension.

"Are you ready to be my wife Mrs. Darcy."

Not trusting her voice Lizzy nodded. Darcy knelt, picked his wife up into his arms and carried her into the bedroom, all the while bestowing kisses upon her neck and along her collar bone. Acting as her ladies maid, he helped with the buttons of her dress and took out the pins in her hair which allowed her locks to cascade luxuriously down her back. Carefully observing Lizzy's reactions he ensured she was comfortable with each stage of their progress before he took another step. They made love throughout the night and in Lizzy, Darcy had found not only a life's companion but a passionate and willing lover.

*Lying in the arms of a slumbering Darcy during the wee hours of the morning, Lizzy reflected on the surprising discoveries she had made that evening. Beginning with the delightful combination of wine and chocolate, it had been one lovely revelation after another. Of course, there had been a brief moment of pain when they first joined, but it was soon forgotten by the intense desires which had formed deep in her stomach. Just when she had thought the pleasure could not have become any more intense, her body had exploded into waves of ecstasy unlike anything she could imagine. Even more shocking was that such pleasure could be had over and over again! And of course, she could not forget the wonderful surprise of seeing her husband undressed! With a devilish grin upon her face, Lizzy could not but think that had she known all the true pleasures of marriage, they may have been on their way to Scotland on November the 27th! As the sun rose, she finally drifted off to sleep, contently snuggled in the arms of her loving husband, Mr. Darcy of Pemeberley, Derbyshire.

Chapter 18

The first rays of morning sunlight crept across the floor of Pemberley master's chamber revealing the break of dawn to the two forms huddled close within the bed, staving off the December chill. Darcy lay awake, pleasantly enjoying the novel sensations of holding his wife in his arms in his bed. The absentminded caresses he bestowed upon Elizabeth's bare shoulder coaxed her gently from a deep and satisfying slumber. Neither spoke for some moments, preferring to enjoy the last remaining moments of their abbreviated honeymoon before facing the maelstrom sure to arise upon their appearance at breakfast.

"Must we make our presence known just yet, Fitzwilliam? Can we not hide here for one more day? I am sure we can dive under the bed if any of the servants come to clean."

"Unfortunately I have been unable to fit under the bed since I was twelve, dearest, and besides, we must face our families sooner or later. I am anxious to hear the Gardiner's news concerning your father."

Darcy and Elizabeth had spent a scant three days in Scotland after their wedding, returning to Pemberley late in the night with Mrs. Reynolds, well after the rest of the house had retired. As far as they were aware, no one but the housekeeper yet knew of their presence in the house and they had heard no news from the Colonel or the Gardiners since their departure the week prior.

"Do let me enjoy your embrace for a few moments longer at least, Fitzwilliam, no one will miss us at breakfast."

You're wish is my command." he responded as he pulled his wife closer and indulged his senses in her proximity. Darcy blissfully reposed, with Lizzy's head upon his chest while he softly caressed her hair and cheek. The pair heard a knock upon the door leading from the dressing room, and though he was loathe to let the outside world in, Darcy knew the fire needed to be tended and the day begun. Expecting Falkes to be the source of the intrusion, he did not hesitate to admit the interloper. "Enter."

As the visitor entered the room, it took only a short moment for each of the occupants of the master's chamber to recognize the awkwardness of the situation. Elizabeth's eyes grew wide, Darcy's countenance reddened, and the visitor's face adopted a distinctly ashen pallor. As if frozen in the moment, the trio struggled to find word or action in their embarrassment.

As Elizabeth shifted the bedclothes around her to cover herself as fully as possible, she was able to utter only a solitary word which betrayed all her astonishment.

"Papa!"

******

While the Darcys enjoyed the last moments of their relative privacy, Mr. Bennet had been pacing the floor of his room, dressed and anxious to speak with his knew son-in-law. The carriage which arrived late in the night, had awoken him, and he knew it signified the return of Darcy and Elizabeth to Pemberley. The gentleman considered whether he should meet Mr. Darcy at breakfast, but preferred to speak with the younger man outside the hearing of the large audience expected to be assembled for the meal, and instead made his way to the master's chamber wishing to catch Darcy prior to his decent down the stairs.

As fortune (or perhaps ill fortune) would have it, Mr. Bennet found a young maid retreating from the master's dressing room just as he arrived at the door.

"Is Mr. Darcy within?"

The maid responded with a nod and direct him to the inner left hand door which lead to the master's bedroom. "I believe he is still within his chamber, sir."

That Mr. Bennet had not considered the idea that his daughter and Darcy may be sharing a chamber, was proof positive of one truth-- that a substantial amount of time distanced him from his own days as a newly married man.

Upon hearing Darcy's voice to bid him enter, Mr. Bennet still had not considered the possibility that his presence might be an intrusion of the highest order, now, as he stood in the door of the master's chambers looking upon his daughter as she struggled to cover herself with the bedclothes and her (he assumed) husband grew red with embarrassment or perhaps anger, he knew not which, the last vestiges of Mr. Bennet's world crumbled down upon him. She is his and I have no power over her any longer. My Lizzy is lost.

The high pitched tone of his daughter's voice broke his thoughts and his stomached lurched. It was a good thing he had not eaten breakfast, for it would have ended up back on the floor. Shaky and faint, all he could think of was the need to get away from that room as quickly as possible.

"Mrs. Darcy, Mr. Darcy, please forgive me." he choked out the words as he backed out of the room and fled down the hall and out of doors. He made it well out of site of the house before he wretched behind the hedgerows.

*********

After the door to the bedroom closed, Darcy and Elizabeth looked at one another in shock and dismay.

As if on cue they both jumped out of bed and began rushing around, dressing hurriedly without the help of maid or valet.

Periodically, one of the two would voice the questions or concerns flooding both their heads:

"What is he doing here? I thought him in London!" Elizabeth threw her hair in a knot, securing it with alacrity, using pins from the night before.

"Dear lord, what made him enter through my dressing room?!" Darcy rooted around and found trousers and stockings.

"He looked a bit sick didn't you think?" Elizabeth smoothed out her dress, she's worn the day before, hoping it did not appear too wrinkled and disheveled. Darcy agreed that his father-in-law had, indeed looked ill, but preferred not to voice his agreement.

"He obviously realized we're married, he didn't exactly seem angry . . .I must speak to Fitzwilliam and find out what happened while we were away."

After scrutinized each other's appearance for presentability, Darcy quickly grasped his wife's hand and kissed her cheek. "All will be well."

Elizabeth nodded and opened the door to the hall. The pair immediately split, heading in opposite directions, Darcy to find Mrs. Reynolds and Elizabeth to find her sister and aunt.

*****

Not a quarter of hour later, the Colonel and Darcy were ensconced in the study discussing the events of the past seven days.

"You could have warned us via express that he was here, cousin." Darcy's tone revealed his exasperation at the situation.

"I didn't want to err--interrupt anything with and express rider, Darce." Fitzwilliam could not help but chuckle to himself at the thought of Mr. Bennet walking into Darcy's bedroom.

"This is decidedly not humorous, and I ask you kindly to keep your sniggering to yourself!"

To Darcy's frustration, instead of the desired effect of quieting Fitzwilliam, his outburst it has the opposite effect of causing a fit of what can only be described as hysterics.

"Oh Darcy, you must admit how lucky you are he chose to leave instead of calling you out! How would you have defended yourself without breeches!"

Realizing that his cousin would not be bullied into refraining from this line of conversation, Darcy chose to change the subject to a more pertinent and important topic. "Once you've regained your composure, perhaps you can tell me exactly what happened and how Mr. Bennet came to arrive on my doorstep."

The Colonel launched into a long narrative concerning the events in London, serendipity of Mr. Bennet having the room next to Wickham, and Mr. Bennet's eventual realization of the truth of Wickham's character. He also detailed the occurrences at Pemberley since his arrival three days previous.

Understanding now the extent of Wickham's elaborate lies, Darcy sympathized with Mr. Bennet's wish to protect his daughter from the rake Wickham described.

"He seemed quite remorseful for all he put you and Mrs. Darcy though, perhaps this can all be resolved simply by speaking with him---preferably outside your bedroom of course."

"I cannot imagine what possessed the gentleman to seek entrance into my chamber!"

"He is a singular chap, I grant you, but Lewisham seems to enjoy his company."

At this Darcy laughed, "I had a strong suspicion they would get along famously if they ever met."

The Colonel rose to leave. "Shall I see you at breakfast?"

"I doubt any of this shall be resolved in a timely fashion, I will have a tray brought in. On your way out, could you alert a servant to fetch my wife?"

The Colonel agreed and headed to the breakfast room with the intention of enjoying the fair prepared by his cousin's cook. He firmly believed no true soldier could ever pass up a good meal as they were too few and far between.

****

Elizabeth softly knocked on the door of her husband's study and entered, finding Darcy peering out the window onto the garden, as he was want to do while in deep thought.

"Fitzwilliam?" The sound of her voice was soothing music to his ears and Darcy turned, smiling upon his new wife, reaching out his hand to bid her come. Desiring the comfort of his touch, Lizzy grasped his hand in both of hers and stood before him, her head resting upon his chest, while Darcy's other arm wrapped around her shoulders and he kissed the top of her hair.

"Dearest, what said your aunt and sister?"

"They are concerned for Papa, they insisted he has been very distraught over all that has occurred and truly wishes to make amends. Aunt Gardiner believes he was simply so anxious to speak with you that he forgot himself in his haste to make all right."

"My cousin's assessment was the same. Do you mind if I speak with him first alone? I believe he may have some things to say to me that are not at all pleasant and I would prefer you not be subject to it."

"In all honesty, I prefer it. I am quite mortified by this morning's incident and I would rather not be in the room to relive it. It was disturbing enough to have to relate the story to Jane and Aunt Gardiner. Summon me when you are finished with the uncomfortable details and need me only to provide you gentlemen with wise counsel, would you?"

Darcy noted the twinkle in his wife's eye and was pleased to see her good humor intact.

*****
Mrs. Reynolds was able to locate Mr. Bennet sitting along on a low stone bench in the west garden, and summoned him to the Master's study. Seeing the new mistress's father looking so pale and fragile, tugged a very little on Mrs. Reynolds' heartstrings, but after all the man had put Mr. and Mrs. Darcy through, she knew he deserved all the discomfort he was feeling and probably much more.

As Mr. Bennet entered the study to find Mr. Darcy behind his desk, he could not overlook the irony that just a few weeks ago their roles had been reversed at Longbourn. Back in Hertfordshire it was he, Mr. Bennet, who had the righteous indignation on his side and the protection of Lizzy in his power, when the gentlemen met in Mr. Bennet's study. Now, those spoils went to the victor. Mr. Darcy had been right about Wickham, he had won his dear Lizzy's heart, and he had clearly outwitted Mr. Bennet himself along every step from Longbourn to Pemberley. The elder gentleman could not nothing but accede that he was vanquished, praying only Mr. Darcy would be merciful.

Not wanting unpleasantness and conflict to mark the tone of their meeting, Darcy began with utmost politeness. "Mr. Bennet, please have a seat. I have not had the opportunity to welcome you to Pemberley, I hope you have found the accommodations comfortable?"

"Most assuredly, thank you." Taken aback by the civility in Darcy's address, Mr. Bennet vowed to wait for Darcy to bring the conversation to the topics of import--he did not have to wait long.

"I spoke with Colonel Fitzwilliam this morning and he gave me the particulars of your meeting in London and subsequent journey here. I understand you are now clearly aware of Mr. Wickham's dishonesty and his attempts to blacken my character."

"I am aware of all of this, and I wish to sincerely apologize to you for my words and actions in Hertfordshire. I should have been more discerning in my opinions and sought more information before acting so rashly. I dishonored you and my own daughter on the words of a relative stranger. I heartily ask for your forgiveness, I realize you may order me from this house immediately, and never permit me to see Elizabeth again, but I ask that you allow me at least to apologize to my daughter in person before I am thrown out."

Shocked by such a strange outpouring of humility and drama from Mr. Bennet, Darcy wondered if the man had spent a bit too much time with Mr. Collins and Mrs. Bennet.

"I have no intention of throwing you out, and whether or not Elizabeth chooses to see you is her own decision, though we both know her heart to be a forgiving one and I am sure she is anxious to reconcile with you. As I know you are aware, she and I were married in Scotland three days ago, we chose that route not knowing whether you would ever accept our engagement. Nevertheless, Elizabeth and I realize that for purposes of appearance a small ceremony on English soil should be arranged expediently. I would hope you would stay at Pemberley to witness it, perhaps invite the rest your family to come North? I know that your presence and your blessing would mean a great deal to your daughter."

Mr. Bennet was, indeed, all astonishment. Not only was he being welcomed to Pemberley his blessing on the union of Elizabeth and Darcy was once again being requested. Not wishing to try the patience of such benevolence, he readily agreed.

"Your marriage most assuredly has my blessing--albeit belated--and I will send for Mrs. Bennet, and my other daughters immediately. We would all be honored to attend."

"Good, it is settled then." Darcy reached for a key and unlocked the first drawer on the right of his desk, removing a bundle of papers and handing them to Mr. Bennet. "Now that you have accepted our marriage it is only fitting and proper that you see the settlement I have arranged for Elizabeth. She herself has already seen and approved them."

As his eyes scanned the words and numbers, Mr. Bennet finally realized the true magnitude of the man before him. "I see that the ladies of Hertfordshire were indeed understating your worth at their 10,000 a year estimate."

"I'm sure you can understand why I never correct such inaccuracies."

"I do indeed. You have been extremely generous with my daughter, I could want for nothing more." Mr. Bennet handed the papers back and Darcy placed them again in the draw and locked it.

"Before I call for Elizabeth, I wish to clear up one more additional misunderstanding. Under no circumstances are you to ever enter my private chambers or those of the mistress of this house with out our personal escort. Is that clear?"

Mr. Bennet reddened with embarrassment and nodded. "I do not quite know what came over me this morning, I am sincerely sorry."

"Please, save your apologies for Elizabeth, you have many to make to her. If I remember correctly I believe you called her several-- names-- which should not be uttered publicly and certainly not to your daughter. I am sure in time she will forgive you, but might I suggest you practice groveling?"

His new father-in-law gave Darcy a wry smile at these words, as the servant was summoned to locate Elizabeth.

*****
Mrs. Darcy's initial reaction to seeing her father was one of reserve. Embarrassment from the morning's incident, mixed with residual anger and disappointment in his behavior caused her to remain aloof at first. But, as Mr. Bennet carefully explained the situation from his own point of view, all the while putting Darcy's suggestion of groveling to use, it was not long before Elizabeth's forgiveness was imparted. She could never forget her father's cruel words to her, but she understood now that he had truly believed Wickham and had attempted to act in her best interest and that of their family--no matter how misguided. The tension in the room gradually thawed and by the end of an hour the trio were happily engaged in planning a second wedding.

As the three wrangled over the best date for the ceremony, Mr. Bennet thanked God that Mr. Darcy and his wife were indeed merciful.

Chapter 19

An uncommon and eerie quiet had fallen over Pemberley in the hours before Mrs. Bennet and her three youngest girls were expected to descend upon the estate. In the calm before the storm, the guest in residence did their part to batten down the hatches in preparation for the impending torrent of silliness.

Alerted to the presence of a carriage making its way toward the main house, Darcy, Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet and Georgiana took a collective deep breath and made their way out of doors to face the arrival of the new guests.

If Mr. Darcy was dreading the appearance of his mother-in-law, his face showed not one sign of it to his wife or Mr. Bennet. He gave a reassuring smile to Lizzy whose own anxiety, stemming from the imminent overreactions of her mother and possible embarrassing behavior of her sisters, was quite evident.

Not one of the four standing on the steps of Pemberley, nor any of the guests in residents, nor, in fact, any member of Hertfordshire society could have predicted what occurred upon exist of the Bennet ladies from the carriage. Mrs. Bennet stood in front, her three youngest behind, and each stared in amazement at the house rising before them. Their jaws hung open, their eyes widened in awe and they said not one word for a full three moments.

If an observer had looked very closely upon the face of the Master of Pemberley, they may have detected the slightest smirk, but it disappeared as quickly as it had appeared, and he stepped forward to great the Bennets.

"Mrs. Bennet, welcome to Pemberley." Darcy turned to each of Elizabeth's sisters and asked after their journey. Lizzy and her father found themselves excessively diverted by the scene before them. Clear Mr. Darcy exerted himself in politeness--nearing the level of true chivalry--far above what could ever have been expected from such an illustrious and taciturn gentleman. All these efforts were met, however, with little more than one syllable responses from the Bennet ladies who were clearly intimidated by Darcy and his house.

The members of the party made their way indoors and were shown immediately to their rooms to refresh themselves before joining the company for dinner. Upon sitting down for the soup course, Lizzy soon discovered that between leaving her mother at the door to her chamber and the arrival of the party to the dining room, Mrs. Bennet's powers of speech had returned with alacrity, though she still remained reticent to speak to Mr. Darcy directly.

"Miss Darcy, you have such a lovely home, though I am sure you will appreciate Lizzy's help in adding some feminine touches to public rooms when she becomes mistress." Georgiana tried to think of a polite response, but need not have bothered attempting, because in another breath, Mrs. Bennet was onto another topic… and another…and another. "I still cannot understand, Mr. Bennet, why the marriage had to take place so soon, we could have planned a much bigger affair at Longbourn, of course if it is by special license then that shall be very grand---Mr. Bingley, do you intend upon returning to Netherfield, if so you must come with a hunting party in the fall and shoot as many of Mr. Bennet's birds as you wish---brother Gardiner, how long have you known Mr. Darcy, it all very sly of you to be invited to such a grand manor with out my knowing---was it you who encouraged Mr. Darcy toward Lizzy? Is that why you stole her away in the middle of the night to get her away from that ungrateful Mr. Collins? I congratulate you, it was all very smartly done…"

Despite various attempts to interrupt, in all likelihood Mrs. Bennet would have continued in this vein for some time, but Mr. Gardiner had finally had enough of his sister's vulgar tongue and spoke loudly and over top of her ramblings until she could no longer ignore him.

"Fanny, we brought Elizabeth and Jane to us in London to give them both some time away from the chaos concerning Mr. Collins. It seems that Thomas had mistakenly believed Elizabeth had accepted Mr. Collins when he gave the parson permission to marry her and was quite distraught since she and Mr. Darcy had come to an agreement before he left Hertfordshire. Lizzy was unsure how to approach her father after such an error had been made and begged our assistance. It was purely by accident that we met Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley in Hyde Park in London and Mr. Darcy invited us to join his party when they traveled north. We wrote to Mr. Bennet who joined us, the misunderstanding was cleared up, and here we all are."

It was a simple story, not too far from the truth, believable--especially from the mouth of a forthright gentleman like Mr. Gardiner--and it was a tale which secured the reputations of the Bennets by intimating chaperonage by the Gardiners throughout the entire journey.

Mr. Bennet spoke up to help further appease his wife. "It is all done for the best Mrs. Bennet, small private weddings are all rage, and just imagine what Mrs. Lucas will say when you tell her your daughter was married by a bishop!"

Mrs. Bennet's eyes widened in glee. "Good riddance to that wretched Mr. Collins! When he finished reading your letter to him Mr. Bennet, he immediately rushed over to Hill to have his trunk packed. I tried to reason with the man, telling him Mary would do just as well for him as Lizzy--actually better as she was more suited to being a boring parson's wife anyway, but he would not listen, just kept mumbling on about what 'she' would have to say about all of it--I never did find out what 'she' he was talking about, for he caught first post carriage back to Kent."

Mr. Darcy, who had been perversely enjoying Mr. Gardiner's and Mr. Bennet's alternating attempts to silence Mrs. Bennet, suddenly started at her last words--he was well aware of who the 'she' was of which the good parson had been speaking. After dinner, Darcy quietly excused himself to his study, briefly, to send an express to Kent. He hoped rather than believed the express would get to his aunt before Collins did--in all the chaos of the past days he had forgotten to inform Lady Catherine of his engagement--an error which was sure to bring a few trifling but inconvenient consequences, but he refused to give much thought to them while his alluring wife awaited him in the drawing room.

Upon entering the room, Darcy found the Colonel entertaining both Lydia and Mary while Georgiana spoke in close confidence with Kitty. Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Lewisham were debating the meaning of a passage in Paradise Lost with Lizzy; and Jane and Mrs. Gardiner patiently listened to the ramblings of Mrs. Bennet. It appeared that two of the gentlemen had yet to join the ladies and Darcy smiled to himself, suspecting that Mrs. Bennet would hear the announcement of a second engagement that night.

Any doubts Darcy or the rest of the party had concerning the nature of the conversation or the end result were erased when Bingley entered the room with the widest grin a person could display, followed by Mr. Bennet who announced, for the benefit of Mrs. Bennet, Kitty and Lydia--for the rest of the party already knew-- the good news of a second engagement.

The great happiness of those assembled was tempered slightly by Elizabeth's growing melancholy as the night drew to a close. Darcy had informed her of the plans that would take him and the Colonel to Liverpool where they would meet Colonel Forester and rid the country of Wickham once and for all by placing him on a boat to America. As a result of the facts that she was sleeping in the guest quarters again until the wedding ceremony and the cousins were to leave before daybreak, she would not seen him the next day.

“I hoped to be back in three days time.” Darcy held Lizzy's hand as they said their farewells in the hallway in front of her room. There was no opportunity for privacy, as all the ladies were retiring for the night, so the lovers had to make do with little intimacy.

Her eyes shown with unshed tears, but she smiled. “Do not worry about me; I will spend my time getting to know your dear sister better.”

“I will miss you dearest Lizzy.” He kissed her hand and watched as she slipped into her room and closed the door. He wished desperately to follow her, or better yet drag her back to her rightful place in the mistress's chambers, but he controlled those impulses in favor of propriety and retuned downstairs to his study where the Colonel and Lewisham indulged with him in a glass of brandy.

************

On the third day of the Colonel and Mr. Darcy's absence, Elizabeth and Georgiana were sitting together at the pianoforte in the music room; keep themselves busy by practicing a duet with which to surprise Fitzwilliam upon his return.

Kitty, who had been alternating between pacing the room all morning and running to the front entranceway to watch for the appearance of the gentleman, was the first to announce the presence of a chaise and four as it rolled steadily toward the manor.

"Lizzy, Georgie! Come look at the huge carriage!"

For a short moment, Elizabeth's heart leapt for joy thinking her Fitzwilliam had retuned, then she recalled that he and the Colonel had left on horseback, and would return in the same manner. All three young ladies made their way to the hallway to peer out the window and catch a glimpse of who the visitor might be.

"Oh dear." Georgiana's voice was tainted with apprehension and she felt a bit ill in the pit of her stomach. "T'is my Aunt Catherine."

Elizabeth's eyes widened for a moment. She and Darcy had discussed the inevitability of this confrontation, but she had hoped it would come when her husband was there as well. She sighed, knowing her wishes were not to be, she had stood up for herself for the last twenty years and one more day would not signify.

The ladies returned to the music room. Lizzy fiddled with a loose string on some embroidery, Georgiana tapped her foot while she paged through sheet music, and Kitty coughed with nervousness, holding her sketchbook and pencil and trying to think of somewhere to go to escape. The calm and ease of the morning had faded and they fidgeted waiting for the honorable Lady Catherine DeBourgh to make her appearance.

Mrs. Reynolds announced the grand lady a few short moments later. The housekeeper, in truth was quite fortunate not to have been trampled, for Lady Catherine barged through the door directly on her heels.

"Georgiana." The young girl curtseyed to her aunt, wondering to her self how a simple greeting from an aunt could be filled with such imperiousness.

"Which of you is Miss Bennet?" Lady Catherine looked from Elizabeth to Kitty in utter contempt.

"We are both Miss Bennets, Lady Catherine, and there are three more of us besides, is there a particular Miss Bennet you are looking for, or will any one do?" Elizabeth knew she should not be so provoking to her husband's aunt, but the woman had walked in with such conceit and disdain for everyone around her, that Elizabeth could not help herself.

Georgiana's eyes had widened even further, and but she risked a small smile of admiration for the courage of her new sister.

"I would speak to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, immediately!" What small amount of patience Lady Catherine possessed had been done away with by Elizabeth's last comment.

"I am Elizabeth," Lizzy stepped forward toward Lady Catherine; chin raised, hands clasped behind her back. Lady Catherine's shrewd eyes looked her person up and down without apology.

"There is a pretty-ish kind of wilderness outside," as she said this Lady Catherine reminded her self to speak to Darcy about the inferiority of his groundskeeper when next she saw him, "perhaps you will take a turn in it with me. I have something of import to discuss with you." It was an order not a request. Lizzy led the way out of Pemberley while Kitty made her getaway up the stairs to watch the scene from the safety of her bedroom window. Georgiana hesitated for only a moment before she followed Lizzy and her aunt out the door, knowing Fitzwilliam would never forgive her if she abandoned Lizzy to the mercy of the Hadrian.

Upon reaching a copse of trees just outside view of the house, Lady Catherine wasted no time and rounded immediately upon Elizabeth.

"Miss Bennet, I have been the recent recipient of information of a most alarming nature, of which you are most assuredly aware. I have come here today to allow you to refute these most unseemly rumors."

"Lady Catherine, you will need to be a bit more specific, I know not of what you are talking."

"Such impertinence! I will not stand for it! Do you not know who I am?"

"You are Lady Catherine DeBourgh, of that I am aware."

"Then you know I am the aunt of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. You're cousin, my parson, has informed me that you consider yourself engaged to Mr. Darcy. As I know this cannot be, for he is engaged to my daughter, I came here to here ensure you silence your tongue and cease spreading such vile untruths."

Elizabeth swallowed hard; Lady Catherine was not making it easy for her to remain civil in the face of such insult. "If you say it cannot be true that I am engaged to Mr. Darcy, then I wonder that you took the time to come here to have me refute it. Such behavior on your part will only confirm the truth of the rumors."

"The engagement of Darcy and Anne is of a most peculiar kind. From their cradles his mother and I planned the union of our dearest children and he and his family have always acknowledged that the marriage would take place to unite the great estates of Pemberley and Rosings Park."

Georgiana had been hovering close enough to hear the entire conversation and could not let this comment slide by.

"That is simply not true Aunt Catherine. Mother and Father wanted Fitzwilliam to marry according to his own wishes, not yours."

Startled by the interruption, Lady Catherine turned to notice that Georgiana was near by. "Georgiana, I will not have you listening to this conversation. It is not meant for your ears. Your impertinence is evidence of this girl's influence upon you, already. Go-leave us!"

"You cannot treat Elizabeth in such a manner--Fitzwilliam will not stand for it, and neither will I!" Georgiana startled herself with her own forcefulness.

"Darcy has been taken in by the arts and allurements of this fortune hunter. You should take heed so that you do not fall into a similar fate. Now go and keep Anne company!"

Georgiana hesitated, thoughts of Wickham and her near fate with a fortune hunter flashed before her eyes. How could Lady Catherine come so close to the truth? How did she always seem to hit upon Georgiana's weaknesses? Georgie looked to Elizabeth who gave the girl a nod to assure her it was all right to leave. With this, Georgiana turned and ran toward Anne who was waiting in the carriage.

Upon Georgiana's retreat, Lady Catherine continued her assault upon Elizabeth.

"Look what you have done to my niece already. She had manners and grace and now she is ruined, so unladylike! Are the shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted! Tell me once and for all, are you engaged to my nephew?"

"What right do you have to ask me any such question after you have expressed nothing but contempt and derision for my person? Ask Mr. Darcy--he is at least your relative."

"Darcy is infatuated with you; I must have you promise never to marry him."

"You will get no such promise from me."

"Tell me, Miss Bennet, are you engaged to my nephew!"

Elizabeth breathed slowly, willing herself to calm as she responded. "Yes, we are engaged."

Lady Catherine paled. "You must promise me to break it off. What sum can I offer you to prevent this marriage? You are aware you are not his equal. You will never be accepted by his sphere with your lowly connections. What of your mother's family? I will make sure you are never accepted."

You can now have nothing left to say. No empty threats remain. You have insulted me and my family in every way imaginable. If Mr. Darcy does not mind my connections they can be nothing to you! I care not for his fortune, his estate nor his connections, I care for him, and he feels the same for me. You shall not dissuade me! If you want this engagement broken you had best try your luck with your nephew!"

While Lady Catherine and Elizabeth continued to spar, Georgiana was hatching a plan.

"Anne, you must put a stop to your mother. She is insisting upon you and Fitzwilliam marrying and is trying to force Elizabeth into giving him up!"

Anne DeBourgh had spent the majority of her 25 years thinking of little else than herself. This selfishness was not entirely her own fault, for she had been raised to indulge her own needs and desire without heed to the feelings of others. She allowed her mother to rule her because it was a comfortable existence. Anne did not have to care for herself nor anyone else, and she was vastly pleased to spend her days pursuing her own enjoyments, having only to endure her mother's occasional audience.

But, now her mother's desires and her own were at odds. Anne was content to live singly where her life was not controlled by the desires of a husband or children. She would never have agreed to marry Darcy, even if he had wanted it--which she knew he did not.

Though Anne primarily thought of herself, where her desires coincided with another's she was willing to act on their behalf. Surely Georgiana and Darcy were her favorite cousins; they showed none of the feigned kindness or superficiality of others. They were nothing if not honest and Anne respected that.

"Very well Georgiana, let us go to them."

Elizabeth and Lady Catherine's argument raged on and neither noticed the approach of the cousins. The young ladies heard Lady Catherine's raised voice as she proclaimed the gospel according to her. "Miss Bennet--Anne will marry Darcy and that is final!"

Elizabeth had no chance to respond as Anne chose to end the nonsense once and for all.
"No mother--I will not be marrying Cousin Darcy." With just these few words, Anne displayed all the command in her stature that were usually reserved to her mother.

Lady Catherine turned to the young women and stood silent for a moment in utter shock. Anne took advantage of her mother's speechlessness.

"Mother, neither Darcy nor I wish to marry each other, he wants Miss Bennet and I want no one. It is time you begin to allow us all to live our own lives."

At this provocation Aunt Catherine found her voice.

"Anne, I am shocked--am I overthrown by you as well? You too have been touched by the influence of this chit!"

"Mother, Miss Bennet hardly seems to deserve such a title, for once be reasonable. I've not even set eyes on her before today, let alone been influenced by her."

"I will not have you speak to me this way Anne!" Lady Catherine was slowly losing control and she knew it. Anne moved in for the kill.

"Mother, it would behoove you to remember that Rosings is technically mine by papa's will, and I can have the servants pack your things and move them to the dowager house immediately."

With these words Anne turned and marched back to the carriage, followed by a scurrying Lady Catherine. Elizabeth could not help but laugh at how much Lady Catherine looked like Mr. Collins at that moment.

Chapter 20

The formidable carriage raced so quickly along the road from Pemberley that the cousins, in their great haste to avoid being run over, almost missed seeing the crest upon the door.

Darcy's eyes narrowed when he noticed the carriage belonged to their Aunt and he urged his horse into a gallop toward the estate. It scarce took the Colonel another moment to realize the import of his Aunt's carriage and he too galloped after Darcy.

As for the occupants of the carriage, only one, in particular, noticed the horsemen who had passed them in the opposite direction. She smiled secretly to herself as she listened to her mother's rantings and refrained from pointing out that the subject of those rants was even now on his way to comfort his love in the wake of the recent tirade.

Upon reaching the great house, Darcy asked for Miss Elizabeth and was directed to the garden. Expecting to find Elizabeth raging over his aunt's (assumed) abusive behaviour, he made his way as fast as his long legs could carry him, and stepped onto the stone pathway. Darcy was all astonishment to see a mirthful Elizabeth, arm and arm with Georgiana and Kitty as the three laughed amongst themselves.

The ladies, hearing the sound of boot steps on gravel, looked up. The countenances of all three brightened even more (if that was possible), two of them in great joy to see Darcy himself and the third in anticipation of Darcy's companion.

After greeting the traveler affectionately Georgiana and Kitty slyly slipped away to find the Colonel and to give Darcy and Elizabeth a few moments alone.

Darcy affectionately grasped Elizabeth's hand and held it as they continued in a circuit through the paths.

"Dearest Lizzy, as soon as I saw my aunt's carriage pass I rushed here expecting to find you quite angry and upset over what I can only expect was her abusive treatment. I had truly hoped to be here to defend your honor should my aunt descend upon Derbyshire, and I spent the gallop back planning ways to comfort you as well as beg and grovel for your forgiveness in allowing you to deal with the Hadrian alone. I must say, I'm in utter shock and disbelief over your good humor, not to mention the good humor of Georgiana and Miss Catherine Bennet. I must have you explain!"

"Fitzwilliam, you, in fact, did not leave me completely alone in dealing with your aunt; both your sister and your cousin came to my rescue when it was most needed." Lizzy smiled mysteriously and Darcy's curiosity was indeed piqued.

"My sister and Cousin Anne came to your rescue? This I must hear!" Darcy walked in stunned silence as he listened to Elizabeth's account of the "visit" from his aunt. Through he remained quite angry at Lady Catherine's presumptuous and ill-bred behavior, he could not help but be proud of his sister and amazed by his cousin's actions. He laughed heartily at Elizabeth's comparison of Lady Catherine to her clergyman after Anne threatened to throw her from the house.

"I'm afraid Fitzwilliam, that dear Georgiana was more frightened of your reaction to her if she did not protect me than she was of her aunt's response if she did!"

"Well, no matter her motivation, I'm terribly proud of her and thankful. I know you can hold your own, but I feel better knowing that we have support from our families. But, now Lizzy, since I did not have to grovel and you are in a high mood, perhaps you may want to welcome your fiancé properly?"

Without waiting for an answer, Darcy pulled a surprised Lizzy into the grove of trees and out of sight of the house. Without a moment to protest, Lizzy was swept into Darcy's arms and found her back against a tree trunk and Darcy's mouth upon hers. His fingers caressed her neck as he tasted her lips as if they were an oasis in the desert. After a few short moments, Darcy willed himself to pull back from her, gazing into eyes, heavy with passion.

"I know we should not indulge ourselves with so many rumors swirling and your father on close guard, but I cannot keep myself away from you Lizzy. Perhaps we should have just told your mother about the elopement to Gretna Green and done away with this charade." Sighing, he ran his hands through his hair.

"You well know why that is impossible, for if my mother knew, so would the rest of the world. Come, it shall only be a few more days of torment before I may take my rightful place at your side." Lizzy smiled cheekily, and the savored one more kiss, filled with all the longing they had in their hearts, before they went inside.

*********

From the moment Mrs. Bennet and her daughters had set foot upon the grounds of Pemberley, Mr. Darcy lost all opportunity to be in the company of Elizabeth alone. Despite the fact that Mrs. Reyonlds was capably handling the planning of the wedding ceremony, in order to silence his future mother-in-law's protests regarding the shortness of the engagement, her daughters indulged her in the pretense of assisting in addressing all the little details in regards to a wedding that only a mother would remember needed attention. Mrs. Bennet would brook no opposition as she led her motley troops (Jane, Lizzy, Mary, Kitty and Lydia) with aplomb, granting no tolerance for insubordination. The Colonel, a military man to the core, looked upon her leadership in wry admiration. Such as it was, Lizzy had little opportunity to spend a quiet moment with her husband.

As a result, Lizzy, an early riser to begin with, began rising even earlier to take a walk each morning before her mother awoke. More often than not, she "happened" upon her husband and they stole away to the lake or some other location to enjoy each other's company. It was on just such a morning as they made their way down toward a clearing by the brook that Darcy sensed his wife's mind was preoccupied.

"If I may say, Elizabeth, you seem quite lost in thought this morning. Is anything bothering you? Have I done anything to pique your ire? Darcy looked at her from the corner of his eye as they walked forward, wanting to catch her reaction, hoping to gauge the reason for her reticence.

Elizabeth was surprised out of her reverie by his words. Oh no my love! It is nothing you have done at all! Rather, it is your cousin . . . not anything he did exactly . . . it's just . . ." Lizzy fell silent not knowing exactly whether she should tell Darcy her concerns.

Darcy became a bit alarmed, he had no idea what his cousin might have done, but he knew the Colonel had upset his Lizzy.

Darcy chose his words carefully, "My dearest, if Richard has done anything to offend you or any of your relatives, please tell me. Our families will soon be united and I would not have any disagreement between them."

"Fitzwilliam, Richard has not offended anyone at all. I see that I will just have to come out with it." She pulled a confused Darcy by the hand over to a fallen log and urged him to sit beside her. "I had a visit from Kitty last night before we retired. She has never confided too much in me, but we have become closer since she and Georgiana have become friends. Last night she came to speak to me about Richard and how wonderful he is. She asked how one knows when they are in love! I'm very concerned, Fitzwilliam, I know it's in your cousin's nature to be amiable and even a bit flirtatious. He has been thrown into Kitty's company so often that I'm afraid my sister has gotten the wrong idea. She does not realize that he is a younger son and thus the need for a fortune will rule his decision for a wife. I just could not crush her hopes last night, but I've been pondering the talk I must have with her soon. Her heart will be broken Fitzwilliam, what am I to say?"

When Darcy didn't answer right away, Lizzy quickly worried she had offended him. "I do not blame Richard in the least; I am just so worried about Kitty. I was so wrapped up in our predicament that I failed to notice how much she was taken with him.

Darcy took her hand in his and spoke carefully. "Elizabeth, I too have noticed their interactions, but I believe I have a different view on it all than you do. Although I am not positive of my cousin's regard for your sister, I can tell you that I have never seen him as enthralled with one lady as he seems to be with Miss Catherine. He made several veiled comments upon our recent journey together that make me wonder if he, too, may be in love. I know that unlike our situation, fortune is an obstacle in this case, but perhaps I can come up with a solution which would allow Richard to bestow his love upon Miss Catherine and ask for her hand, if they should desire it."

Once Elizabeth and Darcy had agreed upon the particulars of their plan they consulted his pocket watch and realized a return to civilization was necessary. Darcy walked Lizzy to the house and wasted no time in setting their plan in motion.

********************
Upon his return, Darcy found the Colonel alone in the breakfast room with his newspaper and coffee. Darcy hoped this was a sign the gods were smiling down.

"Cousin! How was your morning walk with your lovely bride…..-to-be?"

"It was very pleasant indeed. In fact it makes me think that all my good relatives should find an equally adorable wife as I have. Have you given much thought lately to throwing off the coil of bachelorhood?"

"Good Lord Darcy you're sounding more and more like Mrs. Bennet every day! But, since you asked, I do have to say that seeing you and Bingley so happy has made me consider the many benefits which may accompany engagement to a woman one loves" Continuing to read the paper, he added. "Perhaps, if I am very lucky, I may someday meet a Miss Bennet of my very own."

Darcy did not miss the Colonel's efforts to avoid looking at him directly. The corners of Darcy's mouth curled up in a sly smile. Oh yes, Colonel, you may very well have your own Miss Bennet and very soon.

Darcy let the conversation drop as Georgiana and Bingley soon joined them for breakfast.

********

Meanwhile, back in Pemberley's library, Elizabeth was doing her part to further the plan by talking it over with her father.

Well, my dear girl, it seems to be a sound plan, but I cannot help but hesitate to give my approval. Mr. Darcy has already been so generous with our family; it may become embarrassing for a gentleman such as myself, should I continue to rely upon him in such matters as bribing young men."

"Oh, papa! You know there is no bribe involved here. Fitzwilliam just sees this as an opportunity to achieve the happiness of both our families."

"Very well. Will you and Mr. Darcy tell Kitty or shall I?"

"Fitzwilliam is doing his best to determine the Colonel's intentions; I would prefer that we knew where he stands before we raise Kitty's hopes."

Lizzy and Mr. Bennet made their way to the breakfast room to join Darcy and the others, and Mr. Bennet decided it might be time to do a little observing of his own to see how Kitty and the Colonel truly got on.

He was not disappointed in what he saw; on the contrary, he was most diverted by the scene before him. Darcy and Elizabeth did there best to converse with Mrs. Bennet and Mary, while stealing sly looks at one another. He was prodigiously proud of his future son-in0law who only rolled his eyes once during all of Mrs. Bennet's incessant talking and in such a manner than only Lizzy (and he himself) noticed.

Bingley and Jane practically ignored the rest of the room, of course, and Mr Bennet wondered truthfully if the pair would bat an eye if a plague of locusts came upon them. In the opposite corner of the table, Kitty, Lydia, the Colonel and Georgiana conversed together over the morning meal. It became quite obvious that Miss Darcy and Lydia were making a valiant effort to keep the conversation going, the other two just sat in silence making cow eyes over each other.

Mr. Bennet thought to himself, 'Love is indeed a wondrous thing, it makes the reticent man talkative, the jovial man unsociable, and the flirtatious man shy.'

The Bennet ladies and Georgiana were headed into Lambton for yet another shopping excursion, so as soon as breakfast finished the group made their way to the waiting carriage. Darcy held Elizabeth back long enough to find out that Mr. Bennet had given his blessing to the plan, to agree that Kitty and Richard were head over heels in love, and to steal a very quick kiss from his beloved when no one was watching.

***********

While the ladies preoccupied themselves in Lambton, an additional three guests darkened the doorstep of Pemberley under the pretense of congratulating their brother and Mr. Darcy on the recent engagements. Caroline, upon hearing rumours of the imminent weddings from the Meryton gossips, practically forced the Hursts into a carriage and headed north to acertain the truth of the matter. In her esitmation, the Bennets were the most detestable family of her acquaintance. That Jane Bennet had captivated her brother was certainly bad enough, but that Eliza had trapped Darcy--for she must have trapped him--was unacceptable. For the life of her she cold not account for how Darcy and her brother had come across the ladies again when they were supposedly safely hidden away in London. By traveling posthaste to Pemberley, Caroline still harbored a hope that her dream of being mistress of the great house was not entirely lost, and that tomorrow may bring a new outlook on the situation. For that evening she planned bite her tongue and act the part of devoted sister and friend until the time and opportunity to act arrived.

**********

Despite the addition of the unwanted guests, dinner at Pemberley that evening was still a pleasant affair, as Elizabeth was determined not to allow the appearance of Caroline and Louisa to ruin her exquisite happiness. After dinner, the separation of the sexes allowed Darcy and Mr. Bennet to plant some seeds in the mind of a certain Colonel. As Bingley and the Colonel helped themselves to brandy and poured glasses for Darcy and Mr. Bennet, the conspirators made sure the Colonel overheard the conversation.

"Mr. Darcy, it is truly magnanimous of you to help raise the fortunes of my daughters so generously. The contribution to their dowries will certainly make it easier for them to marry well, as Jane and Lizzy will."

"Truly Mr. Bennet, it is the least I can do for the family that has given me my beloved Elizabeth, and as I explained to her earlier, it benefits Georgiana and me as well by helping to ensure the quality of connections through your family. 10,000 pounds each should allow them to marry well, without attracting too many fortune hunters for you to sift through!"

Bingley had been apprised of the conspiracy and had the task of not only ensuring the Colonel overheard the conversation, but also gauging his reaction. He tried hard not to laugh as he saw the Colonel's eyes widen, as he tried desperately to pretend he was not listening.

"I have not yet informed the girls of their great fortune, perhaps you would like the honor?"

"Oh no Mr. Bennet, in fact, they need not even know if came from me. It may be best if society believes it is some long distant relative who recently passed away. However, they should be told that the dowry is contingent upon your approval of their choice."

"Yes, yes that may prevent them from choosing a Mr. Wickham eh?"

Darcy laughed, but a little uncomfortably, thinking how close he really had come to having Wickham as a brother.

The conversations around him continued, but the Colonel did not hear any of it. He could not believe his good fortune. Darcy was giving a dowry to each of the Bennet girls! 10,000 pounds was certainly enough to allow him to propose to Miss Kitty. He would have made do with half that! Who was he kidding; he was almost ready to propose when she had no dowry. The only thing that prevented him from doing so, was knowing she deserved to have at least a comfortable life. The Colonel had saved some money over the years from his soldier's salary and he stood to receive some inheritance from his mother's family which, together, would be enough to purchase a small estate. Between that sum and Kitty's new dowry he knew they could survive.

Darcy, Bingley and Mr. Bennet all laughed under their breath as they could almost see the wheels turning in the Colonel's mind. Darcy knew that had he tried to just give the Colonel and Kitty the sum so they could marry, Richard's pride would have gotten in the way and he would be too embarrassed to accept his cousin's generosity. Instead the money was given to Kitty upon making an 'acceptable' match. Darcy had also promised to do the same for Mary and Lydia if they chose appropriate husbands. He was pleased to be of help to his Elizabeth's family and perhaps, he thought to himself, the dowry might just help keep his sisters from marrying any black sheep who may cost him much more in the future.

Back in the drawing room, Lizzy was able to draw Kitty aside and inform her of Darcy's generosity. The conspirators had toyed with not telling her, but they knew the Colonel (who was prone to sticking his foot in his mouth quite often) may allude to it, and neither Lizzy nor Darcy wanted Kitty to feel ashamed that an addition to her dowry was necessary to induce the Colonel to marry her, so Lizzy thought it best to explain it all to her.

"Now Kitty, this is a substantial sum, but not enough for the Colonel to be induced should he not be interested in you. Most women he meets in the first circles in town have a dowry at least this large and usually much larger. Should he propose to you, you need not believe it is only because of the money. The dowry is simply a means of allowing it to be possible. Do you understand?"

"Of course I do Lizzy, you are so thoughtful! And Mr. Darcy, how could I ever thank him enough!"

"If you are happy it will be thanks enough for both of us. Now, even if things do not turn out with the Colonel, you along with Lydia and Mary are to have 10,000 pounds each, but father, or Mr. Darcy in his stead, will have to approve your choice."

"I understand Lizzy, and I understand you and Mr. Darcy are not going to interfere in any way. I know it is completely up to Colonel Fitzwilliam, I will just have to wait and be patient. Oh dear! This is to be so very hard! Why did I not listen when Hill always told me 'patience is a virtue!'?" The girls laughed heartily and Georgiana came over to join them in their spirited conversation. Darcy never could keep a secret from his sister, and thus Georgie was also aware of the entire scheme and pleased and the thought of welcoming her new best friend into family.

After a short time, just long enough for the conspirators to forward their plans, the gentlemen joined the ladies to hear some music in the drawing room. Lizzy, Mary, Georgiana and each of Bingley's sisters played. Most of the performances were quite delightful and even Mary (who was persuaded by Lizzy not to sing) entertained the company admirably.

Caroline continued to simper and smirk the rest of the evening and pretending to love everyone in attendance. It was a performance worthy of the royal court. Darcy, however, could not help but be truly suspicious of Caroline. He had a strange feeling that prickled the back of his neck, that she had something sinister planned. He made a mental note to make sure he was never alone in a room with Caroline.

******************

Chapter 21

The next morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam arose before dawn, dressed carefully, and saddled his horse. He took a long ride to clear his head, before arriving in Lambton to make an important purchase. As he was headed back toward his cousin's estate in the hopes of meeting a certain young lady, as chance would have it, he spied that certain young lady and two of her sisters seated in a small curricle, headed in the opposite direction into town.

"Good morning ladies." The colonel, atop his chestnut gelding, tipped his hat and greeted the Kitty, Lydia and Lizzy. "I was just on my way to back to Pemberley and as it's a beautiful morning I was going to see if anyone wanted to walk out with me."

Kitty blushed furiously under the colonel's gaze and lost all ability to speak, so Lizzy had to pick up the slack.

"We were headed to Lambton, Kitty and Lydia were kind enough to accompany me in search a few last minute purchases for the wedding. You are more than welcome to join us Colonel, I won't be too long and then perhaps we can take a nice walk about the countryside and you can show us some of the best sights Derbyshire as to offer."

"I would be delighted!" Colonel Fitzwilliam rode beside them, trying to engage Kitty in conversation, but Lydia would allow the two of them no privacy. She answered every question directed at Kitty and monopolized the conversation of the whole party. Kitty did little but look at the horse in front of her. Elizabeth could not determine if Kitty was embarrassed for herself or upset with Lydia.

Despairing of finding any way to allow the Colonel and Kitty to speak alone, as they reached Lambton, Lizzy did what she swore she would never do--she became her mother!

"Lydia, would you help me pick out a winter bonnet in Mr. Tyson's store please. I do so appreciate your taste in such matters." She was almost convincing.

"Oh Lizzy, pick your own bonnet out! I know you shall never like what I like, and I'm having such a wonderful discussion with the Colonel." Lydia smiled and Lizzy swore she saw her bat her eyelashes in Richard's direction.

Frustrated, Elizabeth held herself back from forcibly dragging Lydia away. She tried another tactic. "Kitty, would you and the Colonel mind going to Richardson's and see if the book I ordered for Mr. Darcy has arrived?" More forcefully she added, "Lydia, you must come to Mr. Tyson's for you also need a new bonnet for the wedding."

At the thought of buy clothes for herself Lydia abandoned the Colonel and Kitty and followed her sister.

Barely speaking a word Kitty and Richard made there way to the edge of town where Richardson's was and enquired about the book. The storekeeper said it was due in the next day and someone would have to stop back then.

As they left the shop, the Colonel realized now was his best chance.

"Miss Catherine, would you like to walk over to that grove while we wait for your sisters to finish, we can see Tyson's from that spot and will know when they are ready to leave."

"Yes, that would be lovely." Kitty spoke to her shoes and her voice was barely audible.

The grove at the edge of town was not perfect, but it was generally out of the view of most people walking the streets and it offered a good vantage point to watch the front door of the store where Elizabeth and Lydia had gone.

They reached the relative seclusion of the trees and the Colonel took Kitty's hand as the words tumbled out of him. "Miss Catherine--Kitty, it was been many weeks since I have considered you one of the most beautiful, kind and wonderful women of my acquaintance. I must tell you that I am very much in love with you and I would be honored if you would agree to be my wife. Will you marry me?"

At this, Kitty looked up from the ground for the first time since the Colonel joined them on the road. Her eyes shown with happiness and perhaps a tear or two of joy. She smiled, quelling the doubt buried in his breast.

"Oh Colonel, I would be so pleased--so happy to be your wife! I never thought it could happen, I had hoped but---Oh I'm so happy!"

At this, the Colonel took her hand and pulled Kitty deeper into the grove behind the trees. Stopping in front of her, he took her face in his hands. Watching for the return of Lydia and Elizabeth was forgotten.

"Kitty, my love, please call me Richard from now on." He bent his head and laid a soft and tender kiss upon Kitty's lips.

Never having experienced such a kiss before, Kitty nearly swooned from the feeling. Later, she would tell Lizzy that it felt as if a thousand butterflies had suddenly taken flight inside her. She opened her eyes slowly and saw the handsome face of her fiancé staring back at her with such a look of love and devotion.

Tears streamed down her face.

Alarmed, Richard thought he had offended her. "Kitty, I'm so sorry what have I done? I'm so sorry."

"Do not be sorry--Richard--You have made me the happiest girl in the world, I am crying because your kiss was so beautiful, it made me feel like I have never felt--like I am truly beloved."

They spent a few more moments in the shelter of the trees, collecting themselves, before emerging to look for Kitty's sisters. Had anyone on the streets of Lambton stopped to look at the smiling faces of the red coat and his companion, the town would have soon heard rumors of the likelihood of a third engagement from the residents at Pemberley, but as it was, no one took heed of the couple.

Kitty and Richard met Elizabeth and Lydia at the door of Tyson's store. Lizzy had struggled to keep Lydia distracted with bonnets until she saw Kitty and the Colonel approach. 'My god I have turned into my mother, what will Fitzwilliam think!' Lizzy murmured to herself.

If the rest of Lambton did not notice the unmistakable smiles, Lizzy did, and hastened the party back to Pemberley so that the Colonel could speak to their father.

**********************

Later that same afternoon, having achieved the approval of the engagement from Mr. Bennet (who, unknown to the Colonel, expected the visit), Richard Fitzwilliam paced in the drawing room at Pemberley waiting for Bingley, Darcy, Mr. Gardiner and the Professor to return from shooting. The Bennet ladies, Mrs. Gardiner and Georgiana were occupied with wedding preparations and he wanted no part of the company of Miss Bingley and the Hursts. Undoubtedly, Richard wanted nothing more that to be in company with his fiancée and he was growing impatient with the others for their delay in returning home.

Hearing a commotion in the front hallway, Richard sighed in relief at the return of the other gentlemen. That relief soon turned to abject horror when the servant entered followed closely by his father, the Earl of Matlock, and his mother.

The Earl and Lady Margaret were just as surprised to see their son as he was to see them.

The Earl's voice naturally boomed causing an involuntary flinch in Richard. "Son! We had no idea you were here with your cousins. Have we caught you alone? Where is Darcy?"

"He, Bingley and two other guests are shooting; I expect them back at anytime."

After 35 years of marriage Lady Margaret could read her husband's thoughts. "Well perhaps we may speak to you in private before the others return?"

Without a word, but dreading the coming inquisition, Richard led them to the library, thankful that Mr. Bennet had retired to his room for a short nap before supper.

Each waited for the servant, who had brought tea and refreshment, to leave before the real discussion began. The Earl spoke first.

"Richard! What is the meaning of this engagement of Darcy's? We've been to Kent to comfort your Aunt, who is completely distraught over the whole situation, we never received direct notice of the engagement from him and we have recently heard from--other sources--that this girl is nothing but a fortune huntress!"

"Father, nothing could be further from the truth--" Richard tried to explain the situation and defend Miss Elizabeth and the entire Bennet clan, but once the Earl was on a roll, no one could stop him. He was like his sister, Lady Catherine--with a little less superiority address and a bit more of the tenacity of a bull dog.

The Earl lectured on about duty to family, scandalous behavior, the damage to Georgiana's future and every other possible consequence of Darcy's marriage to a country nobody that he could come up with. Both son and mother knew it was futile to try and stop him, so they let him get out his frustrations.

It should be noted that Richard had taken his father to the library because, although it contained few books, the heavy oak doors and paneling prevented sound from traveling outside the walls. Though he had not known the exact topic of conversation his parents wanted to have in private, Richard had an understanding that it would do no one good to have the servants of Pemberley gossiping about their discussion.

These oak doors, however, not only prevented servants from hearing what was going on within, but it also prevented any resident of the house from hearing as well.

It was with great surprise, then, to both parties when Darcy himself opened the door to the Library, with Miss Elizabeth, Miss Kitty and Georgiana in tow and heard this final exclamation from his Uncle whose back was to the door:

"By God Richard, we know this Elizabeth Bennet is Darcy's mistress and that she is likely with child, but he need not marry her, we can send her to Ireland, he need not saddle himself and his family to such a disgrace!"

Richard, who had seen Darcy entered with the ladies as his uncle spoke, opened his eyes wide in horror as he looked past his father. The Earl and his wife turned to see what had caught Richard's attention and watched as three visible shaken women and one furious gentleman entered the room.

Perhaps this was not the best time in the world to announce his engagement, and had he thought a bit more about Kitty's reaction he may have given pause, but the rash and devilish part of Richard took over and he wanted to see his father squirm. Even more than bringing discomfort to his father, the protective soldier in Richard cried out to make it quite clear whose side he was on in this civil war, so he spoke up.

"Father, mother, you of course know Darcy and Georgie, but allow me to introduce you to Darcy's fiancée Miss Elizabeth Bennet. And this beautiful young lady beside her is Miss Bennet's, sister, Miss Catherine Bennet. She is engaged to me."

Chapter 22

If silence had reigned before Richard's introduction, chaos reigned after. The Earl erupted in exclamation of shock and anger, Kitty fell into tears in her sister's arms and Darcy slammed the door to the library to catch everyone's attention once again.

"Uncle!" Darcy's voice was every bit a powerful as the Earl's "as I am master of this house, and your insult has tainted my fiancée and all her nearest relations--two of which are engaged to guests in my home---I am taking it upon myself to order you out of Pemberley immediately!"

"What is the meaning of this Darcy! You, and obviously my son as well, are behaving like lovesick fools." The men stood toe to toe, Darcy, standing two inches taller and in the prime of life was the more imposing figure.

"You are wrong uncle, I am merely acting as the protector of my family. You have upset Georgiana and you have insulted my future wife and her family in every way possible. I cannot allow you to remain here under this roof! By God you are lucky I do not call you out!"

Lady Margaret could take no more. "Gentlemen, let us be a bit more rational. Perhaps, Edward, we have been a bit hasty in our assessment of the situation, after all we did hear these rumors from your sister and from --that letter--- neither are exactly reliable sources. Why don't I take the ladies to the drawing room so we can get to know each other better. Can I trust the three of you not to injure or kill one another?"

Darcy was loath to let Elizabeth deal with his aunt alone. The Earl's wife was no Lady Catherine, but she was formidable in her own way. Both Georgiana and Kitty were in near tears, clinging to Elizabeth for support. Neither would be capable of assisting Elizabeth in dealing with the woman.

Darcy looked at Elizabeth, who gave him a slight nod in agreement with Lady Margaret's plan. She did not want to face his aunt without support either, but she knew she had to get the other girls out of the room before they fell into complete hysterics. She held one of them on each side of her and led Lady Margaret back to the drawing room.

In a slightly calmer tone, Darcy continued. "I can well imagine what Aunt Catherine had to say, she is obsessed with me marrying Anne, but I expected more from you. Did you not get my express announcing the engagement? And what letter was Aunt Margaret referring to?"

"We did not get your express Darcy, as soon as we heard from Catherine we went immediately to Kent to comfort--or should I say quiet--her. We were puzzled at first as to why you would marry someone of no connections, but we were not truly alarmed until we received this letter." The Earl pulled out a letter written in what he surmised was a lady's hand, and passed it to Darcy. "I know not who wrote it, but the contents alarmed your Aunt and I exceedingly."

Darcy perused the letter which contained the insults and speculations that Earl had mentioned in addition to accusations of servants gossiping over having seen Elizabeth in Darcy's bed chamber. It was extremely abusive to Elizabeth and Darcy's anger increased with every sentence as his countenance darkened. He believed he knew the source of the letter, one of the few people present besides the Bennets who did not already know that Lizzy and Darcy were husband and wife and had a motive to try and break the engagement.

Without another word to his uncle, Darcy called for a servant, spoke with him quietly, and dismissed him before closing the door to the Library.

"I have a suspicion as to who addressed this to you, but I will keep it to myself until proved correct. As for you Uncle, I expect a personal apology to my fiancé."

I shall do no such thing! You have not refuted that she is your mistress, and besides, whether she is or isn't, her family and connections are far below those of our family. I still insist you break the engagement!" Suddenly remembering Richard was engaged to a Bennet as well "And you too Richard!"

"Sir, Elizabeth Bennet is one of the most respectable and moral women of my acquaintance and I shall not dignify the assertions in this letter with an answer, but if you do not apologize to Elizabeth, Miss Catherine Bennet and Georgiana, you, like your sister Lady Catherine, will not be welcome at Pemberley.

Richard raised his eyes in admiration to his cousin.

As much in amazement as in anger the Earl continued his assault on the Bennets "You will throw off your family for a chit? What about you Richard? Who will supply your allowance? Certainly you will not go against my wishes to live in poverty. She will break the engagement if you have no money at all!"

Insulted for himself and Kitty, Richard's anger finally took over. "Father, I want no allowance from you. Kitty and I will make our way on our own. You will not set foot in any future home of ours until an apology is made. Our home will not be as grand a Pemberley, but it will be the home of your grandchildren someday, and if you intend on seeing them, I think you should apologize."

The Earl was yet too angry to see the wisdom of Richard and Darcy's words. "Very well, Lady Margaret and I will leave now!" The Earl stormed out of the Library and nearly ran over Professor Lewisham who was just about to knock on the door in response to Darcy's summons via the servant.

As Darcy rushed out in pursuance of his uncle he caught the Professor's questioning expression. "Follow me professor, I may need your assistance in reminding my uncle about some skeletons in the Fitzwilliam closet." Lewisham smiled in reply and tagged along behind Darcy and the Colonel as they headed to the drawing room.

********************************

Elizabeth had led the ladies to the drawing room mainly to escape the horror going on in the library. Now that they were here, she was alternately comforting each young girls absorbed in their misery while she sat across from a silent but calculating Lady Margaret. Elizabeth wondered if the war in the Library would have proved safer. For once, however, she was not going to exert herself to put others at ease. To hell with Darcy's Aunt! She thought as she looked at the red swollen eyes of Kitty and Georgie.

Lady Margaret spoke first. "Miss Bennet, I apologize for my husband's indiscreet remarks, he was completely ungentlemanly and I am truly sorry."

"I accept your apology, but as you can see, those remarks hurt more than myself and I will not pretend they shall not have a lasting impact." Elizabeth looked the lady coolly in the eye.

Lady Margaret was truly impressed by Elizabeth's control of the situation as well as her solicitous care of Georgiana and her own sister, all accomplished with seeming ease and grace. She showed no favoritism, did not indulge them in their sorrows, but nor did she make them feel embarrassed by their own emotions. And all this she did while having taken the brunt of the insults from Earl. Georgiana's loyalty to her future sister also showed uncommon devotion.

As the heated discussion in the library continued, Elizabeth and Lady Margaret covered the same topics with more civility, if not politeness. Like Darcy, Elizabeth immediately suspected the source of the anonymous letter alluded to by the Earl and his wife. Not wanting to accuse without confirmation, she said only that the person had entertained hopes of marrying Mr. Darcy and probably wrote the letter out of spite, or perhaps hope that an Aunt and Uncle could talk him out of the engagement.

Lady Margaret admitted she would not be surprised if that was indeed the case, as Darcy had been within the sights of more than a few young ladies of the ton who might stoop to such acts to secure him. She also knew her nephew well enough to understand that Darcy would not change his mind no matter how many aunts and uncles attempted to dissuade him.

"Miss Bennet, I could see in the Library that Darcy is deeply devoted to you. His fortune and standing are such that there is no need for money or connections, and so long as your morals are equal to his, we can do nothing but welcome you to the family. Are you in fact his equal Miss Bennet?" From the few interactions she had already witnessed, Lady Margaret expected that Elizabeth was, indeed, a good match for her nephew but wished to test the mettle of the young lady just a touch more before giving a blessing to the union.

"Lady Margaret, I will not pretend that I am his equal in education or worldliness, neither is he my equal in liveliness --it would indeed be a boring marriage should we be the same people-- but in mutual devotion, respect and love we are indeed equal and I can think of no better foundation for our union." Elizabeth chin tilted up just slightly, as if challenging Lady Margaret to disagree.

"My dear, The Earl and I are not unreasonable, like a certain other of Darcy's relatives. I believe once the gentleman are finished puffing their chests and squawking at each other we shall have to celebrate your engagement."

"If you are indeed sincere, Lady Margaret, then I thank you for your welcome. I hope you can attend the wedding on Thursday if your plans permit."

Having recovered suitably, Georgiana raised her voice. "Oh yes please Aunt, please stay for the wedding, it shall be beautiful!"

"Georgiana, come give your favorite Aunt a hug!" Georgie did as she was told with a bright smile "Oh dear girl I am so sorry your uncle upset you like that. It was very wrong of him."

"I am just loath to see anyone speak badly of Elizabeth. She and Fitzwilliam have suffered enough at the hands of relatives from both sides, but they are perfect for each other!"

"I think I am beginning to see that Georgie."

At this moment an irate Earl, closely followed by Darcy, Richard and Lewisham, entered the drawing room to collect his wife. They were all astonished to see a tearful Georgiana being hugged by her Aunt with two smiling Miss Bennets looking on.

"We shall be happy to attend the wedding Miss Bennet, it will be an honor for myself and the Earl."

Upon hearing his wife's pronouncement the Earl's temper exploded yet again. "We shall not! We've been thrown from this house and we shall not stay, nor see either of these ungrateful young men again!" The Earl shouted.

"Oh Edward, please! I had hoped the boys could calm you down, but I suppose you all got each other in high dudgeon. I can see Miss Bennet is a lovely young lady and I have already welcomed her to the family, you cannot take it back."

"I am the head of this family and I can do whatever I please! I will not stand here and allow the next generation to ruin the noble family names of Fitzwilliam and Darcy!"

Needing no prompting from Darcy, Professor Lewisham took his cue from the Earl and stepped forward to great another of his old classmates. "Edward, it is good to seen you again, its been such a long time, has it not?" The Earl greeting Lewisham icily, never having particularly liked George Darcy's good friend and liking him even less now that he was some how involved in an intimate family matter.

"Lewisham, it is good to see you as well, however, we are having a private family discussion and I think perhaps it is inappropriate for you to be here."

"As it is Darcy's house I defer to him, and he asked me to join this little gathering so we could do a bit of reminiscing, Edward." The Earl patience thinned as he puzzled over Darcy's motivation for bringing the professor into the matter.

"I cannot imagine what reminiscing we could do which would have any bearing on the matter at hand Lewisham!

"Can you not? Well, you little comment concerning the importance of the Fitzwilliam and Darcy names reminded me of a time, many many years ago, when the Darcy name meant as little to you as the Bennet name means now. Do you recall that?"

The Earl's face became red --weather from anger or embarrassment, no one knew for sure --but he stood silently, allowing the professor to continue.

"Well, I assume from your reaction you do remember, so I will go on. If I recall-- please correct me if I am wrong--the lack of respect for the Darcy name lead to some rather, shall we say, sticky consequences. Knowing Darcy as you and I do, knowing how very much like his mother and his father that he is, you must see the potential for similar consequences and I am sure you would not want to deal with them again, eh?"

"That is completely irrelevant Lewisham, completely different set of circumstances, it is not the same at all!"

"Oh, I beg to differ Edward, it is exactly the same."

With Lewisham's last words, the Earl's face and that of Lady Margaret lit up with shock. After several moments of silence, the Earl let out a sigh of resignation and turned to his nephew.

"I suppose we could stay for the ceremony, shall we see if Mrs. Reynolds can find us rooms?"

Darcy spoke coolly and evenly. "Mrs. Reynolds will be happy to make up a suite for your and Lady Margaret, provided you, of course, apologize to Miss Bennet and her family for your rudeness."

Seeing the slightest hint of hesitation in her husband's eyes, Lady Margaret made it clear he had not other option "Get on with it!"

Properly humbled by his wife's order, the Earl did as he was told. "Miss Bennet, I am sorry you overheard some disparaging remarks I made about your person. Please accept my apology you are, of, course welcome in the family."

Perhaps it was not the most heartfelt apology she had ever heard, but Elizabeth wished to take pity on all those present, most especially her sisters, and put end the conflict. However, in so doing she could not resist the opportunity to tease the Earl, colonel, and even her husband. "Your apology is accepted, My Lord, but I must make a striking observation concerning your family." Lizzy's familiar arched sweetness made Darcy smile as he awaited her gentle censure of his uncle. "It seems to be a Fitzwilliam family trait to insert ones foot in one's mouth at inopportune moments. I believe, in at least that one regard, our families are quite equal." At this, Darcy and Fitzwilliam laughed out loud, owning to the truth of Lizzy's statement, and their joviality infected the entire room, releasing much of the tension permeating the house.

"Good then that is settled" cried Lady Margaret "let us put this all behind us, we have a wedding coming up, and an engagement to celebrate!"

Elizabeth and Kitty soon took their leave to dress for dinner. As they made their way upstairs, Lady Margaret took Kitty's hand. "Miss Catherine, it is was pleasure to meet you, I'm sorry it was not under more pleasant circumstances."

"Thank you Lady Margaret, it was a pleasure to meet you as well."

To the surprise of everyone, the Earl also chimed in. "I look forward to getting to know you better Miss Catherine, if you have half the pluck your sister has, you will be a fine addition to the Fitzwilliam family."

At this the whole party laughed again and Darcy and Richard escorted their fiancées to their rooms

"Kitty, Miss Elizabeth, I am so sorry my parents put you were put through such torment."

Kitty hated to see Richard upset and piped up first. "Its alright Richard, I'm just sorry I didn't say more, I did not know what to say."

I know, I did not speak much myself. I think Darcy and Elizabeth took most of the bludgeoning. My parents didn't have any strength left to argue about us after they were forced into submission by my cousin and your sister!"

The four smiled wryly.

Elizabeth also wanted to put him at ease. "Truly Colonel, do not worry yourself, I know exactly whom we shall place the blame for this incident. Do you agree Fitzwilliam that a certain lady of our acquaintance was the source of that letter?"

"Yes, Elizabeth, and Bingley will be hearing about the officious behavior as soon as I get a moment with him in private."

**************************

When Bingley saw the letter and determined that it was indeed Caroline who was the source of such infamous treatment of Elizabeth Bennet he wasted no time in throwing her from Pemberley and cutting off her additional allowance. Needless to say, Darcy was prodigiously proud of his friend.

Caroline was forced to beg the Hursts to accompany her back to London immediately and allow her to stay in their townhouse, for she had no where else to go. Needless to say, Caroline did not return with the Hursts for the Darcy wedding.

*****************************

When all the guests of Pemberley, (with the exception of Caroline and the Hursts, who had been suddenly called back to London on an urgent matter) assembled once again for dinner, those not a part of the afternoon's argument remained in blissful ignorance of the recent rift. Mrs. Bennet's great pleasure at having an Earl as her son-in-law's uncle was eclipsed only by the joy she felt upon finding out that the same Earl would also be the father of another son-in-law. Darcy was pleased to see his relations behave themselves adequately, and graciously suffer the attentions of Mrs. Bennet. He believed his uncle even slightly enjoyed making Mr. Bennet's acquaintance, which was more than he could have even hoped.

That night, as Lady Margaret and the Earl retired for the night they could not help but comment on the day's happenings.

"That Bennet fellow was not so bad, his wife is a bit of a loon, though."

"Ah well, not much worse than your sister, I'm afraid." Brushing her hair in the mirror, Lady Margaret contemplated the news the professor had so surreptitiously imparted to them. "To think, Darcy eloped with her to Scotland! Did you ever think had had the rash streak of his father in him?"

"Darcy is such an odd mix of his parents and their families, he has his father's boldness, his mother's heart, the Fitzwilliam mien and his grandfather's intelligence. I do believe he may have pulled off the perfect elopement, the ton may never even hear a whisper."

"So long as the servants don't speak," Margaret warily reminded him.

"There is little worry of that, dearest. Pemberley servants are as loyal as the day is long and as silent as the grave. That fact is what first tipped me off that the letter may be a fake--I do not believe there was ever any such gossip by the servants regarding Darcy and his wife."

"So you believe, that Caroline Bingley woman made it up to suit her story?" the Earl nodded. "Well, Edward, as they say, even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while--and she better save all the nuts she can find because I don't believe her brother is going to be sharing much of his fortune with her any longer."

"Very true dear, very true. I am most amused that Miss Bingley believed herself more suitable as Darcy's wife than Miss Bennet--dear Lord at least Miss Bennet is the daughter of a landed gentleman." The earl murmured as they both turned in for the night.

Chapter 23

The morning of the official marriage of Miss Elizabeth Bennet to Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Derbyshire dawned beautiful, crisp & clear. No cloud hung to spoil the heavens from shining down upon this pair. All the people important to the couple were in attendance at Pemberley chapel, including the amiable Professor Lewisham whose pride in helping to bring it all to fruition could be detected from an additional spring in his step. Aside from Caroline the only other conspicuous absences from the ceremony were Lady Catherine, her daughter, and her parson.

Throughout the week leading up to the wedding, Darcy's Uncle the Earl and Lady Margaret spent their time ingratiating themselves not only to the Bennets but also to the Gardiners, the professor to the whole of Derbyshire. Darcy suspected that Lady Margaret felt quite guilty for their behavior in the library at Pemberley and was forcing herself and her husband to do extra penance in atonement, but he would not question that which had made his family great favorites with his in-laws and the whole community.

Mr. Bennet's wit and minor eccentricities thoroughly amused his Lordship and the Earl of Matlock spent many an agreeable evening in the library with Mr. Bennet, the fashionable Mr. Gardiner, and the sage professor, who all sought to escape the incessant talk of lace, bonnets and wedding breakfasts. Enjoying the company of the father of his son's betrothed made it much easier for the Earl to come to terms with Richard's engagement to Kitty Bennet, and it was no time before he declared her the sweetest girl in the world, besides dear Georgiana of course.

Mr. Bennet, it is true, felt no small amount of regret at watching his most beloved daughter as she prepared to officially leave his protection forever. Perhaps one might expect that the fact the she was already married may have lessened that regret, but since he never witnessed the first ceremony, he still felt all the emotions due to the father of a bride. The two stood in the vestibule of the chapel awaiting the walk up the aisle. Mr. Bennet searched for the proper words to tell his daughter the depth of his regret and his happiness.

"My dearest girl, I am very proud of you. You have found a gentleman who is your match and your equal. You have done for yourself what your father could not do for you, and I am so sorry for all that I put you and your young man through. You cannot know how much I have come to regret the words I spoke to both of you that day in my study and what my actions forced you to do." The grief and guilt on her father's face was evident and Lizzy sought to comfort him.

"Papa, I have long forgiven you for those words. As misguided as I know you were, I understand you were somehow trying to protect me and our family and with that I cannot find fault."

"Thank the Lord your young man was so honorable. I must say, I was a bit fearful he would try to throttle me on that day and several occasions afterwards! Had he been less a gentleman, I have no doubt he would have!" The twinkle came back to her father's eye, perhaps with an unshed tear or two which brightened them even more.

The first note rang out from the organ, signaling the beginning of the ceremony.

"Well, my dear, your Mr. Darcy awaits, shall we?" The two walked together up the aisle to where Mr. Bennet passed the hand of his most beloved daughter to the only man in England who deserved her.

Mr. Bennet took his place beside his wife for the ceremony and reflected on the very great happiness a marriage of true minds can bestow.

******

Though the ceremony was indeed beautiful, it would never rival their private Scottish ceremony in Elizabeth's heart. As the Darcys' carriage departed Pemberley for the seclusion of their beloved getaway on the northern boarder, they left a houseful of guests to the care of Georgiana and Mrs. Reynolds.

"My dearest loveliest Elizabeth, we have survived acts of God, the plots of villains like Wickham and Caroline Bingley and the anger of all our nearest relations, I believe our love grows stronger with every trial!"

"As you once said my darling husband, this terrible love has been the cause of our every act and deed, and so long as we continue to act according to our love, we cannot go wrong."

With this, Darcy pulled his wife to him and pressed his lips to hers. The restraint of the last few weeks dissolved away and Darcy gave into his passion, tasting his wife's lips and deepening the kiss until, utterly breathless, they had to pull apart.

With love and desire in her eyes, Lizzy whispered to her husband "You, Fitzwilliam, are the best man I shall ever know."

"I may be the best my dear, but I am by no means the most patient. Cannot these horse go faster?" The couple laughed together as Darcy held his wife close and they dreamed of the future together.

**************

Epilogue

The Darcy's stayed in Scotland for the Christmas season, enjoying a most romantic time alone. They saw no acquaintances except for Christmas Eve dinner which was spent with the Wyethes.

After the New Year, the Darcys returned to Hertfordshire for the double wedding of Jane and Bingley and Kitty and Richard. Thus, it was not until the First day of February that Elizabeth laid her eyes once again upon Pemberley. As the coach rounded the turn in the drive, the driver stopped (as he had been instructed by Mr. Darcy) to allow the Darcys the best view of their home.

Pemberley lay under a fresh blanket of white, the bare trees adorned with ice crystals glistening like diamonds.

"Oh Fitzwilliam, this is a magical place! I feel like a fairy princess coming home to my palace!"

"You are my fairy princess, Lizzy." Darcy wrapped his arms around his wife from behind as she admired the view and kissed her neck and behind her right ear. "Your palace awaits and I cannot wait to more intimately acquaint you with all of its charms."

As the carriage drove on, Elizabeth turned back to her husband and gave him saucy grin. She caught him (not unpleasantly) by surprise when she kissed him full on the lips, before whispering to him. "I look forward to a private tour of the secret passages and hidden charms of estate Mr. Darcy."

Upon her first visit Elizabeth had fallen in love with Pemberley, but as its official mistress, the estates, its people and the surrounding country easily fell in love with her. Elizabeth fit in so well with the people of Derbyshire, the wealthy and the common alike, that they all quite forgot the dear mistress of Pemberley was originally from anywhere else and often claimed here as their own. When Georgiana returned from her visit to Matlock (having given the newlyweds their privacy) the happy family of three settled into a comfortable and quiet routine that suited each admirably.

The Bingleys, of course, lived less than a year at Netherfield when they found an estate in the North, not 20 miles from Pemberley. The move reunited Elizabeth and Jane just in time for Elizabeth's first confinement, and brought Georgiana another sister in which to confide as she prepared to "come out" in society.

After his wedding, Richard gave up his commission in the army and settled in a small estate not far from Matlock which, unbeknownst to Richard, the Earl had been holding for him. Between the estate, Richard's savings, and the dowry from Darcy, the Fitzwilliams lived quite comfortably.

Of the remaining unmarried Bennet sisters, one of them settled down to a relatively quite life as a clergyman's wife and the other sought adventure by joining her husband, a Naval captain, on his voyages. At this point you are most likely assuming that Lydia took to the high seas while Mary spent her days listening to her husbands sermons, but the truth is quite the opposite. Lydia, upon learning of the dowry Mr. Darcy had set aside, realized she had to chose a 'respectable' gentleman for her husband in order to benefit. Who was more acceptable than a clergyman? And when that clergyman was, in fact quite handsome (perhaps handsomer than Wickham) and the third son of an Duke who was sure to be made a bishop one day, he was acceptable to all parties involved--most especially Lydia who felt a would be bishop with a beautiful smile was much more important than any regular old parson.

As for Mary, she never did collect her dowry. She became restless of her life of books and fell in love with the ocean while visiting Brighton with the Fitzwilliams. The freedom of the wide open sea enticed her and when a relatively good looking and smitten sea captain made an offer for her, she did not wait for the approval or her father, Darcy, or even her sister Kitty. They, sailed on his ship, north to Scotland and married upon setting foot on solid ground. They did not need the dowry, they lived relatively simply and, in truth, the captain had made a small fortune over the years which was accruing and would provide them a handsome living of probably 4, perhaps 5 thousand a year when the wanderlust of both Mary and the captain subsided. In the meantime, Lizzy, Jane, Kitty and Lydia lived Mary's adventurous life vicariously through her letters.

And so Darcy's hope of no black sheep was not to be, but where the biggest scandal was the elopement of the most serious sister with a very respectable sea captain (as sea captains go) he had no reason to repine.

It is often said that opposites attract, but perhaps it should be said that complements fall in love. The Bennet sisters each found their complement and their soul mate in their husbands who brought out the best in them. They all raised beautiful children who love their parents and were loved in return, however, it was only the Darcys who truly had a claim on what one might call a terrible love.

*The End.*

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