Secret Marriage

By Tamsin

Section I, Next Section

Posted on Saturday, 9 January 1999

Prologue 1-Scotland, April 4, 1808

On a road, a few miles from Gretna Green a carriage hurtled forward as if it could not reach its destination fast enough.

In the darkness of the carriage, for this was nighttime, sat a man who looked to be around his early to mid twenties. He removed his gloves and hat and lay them beside him on the seat. With the hat gone one could see his black curly hair. When he turned his eyes toward his fair partner, one was at once caught by the expression in his deep brown eyes, which were filled with adoration for the lady who sat opposite to him.

The woman looked rather young, perhaps fifteen or sixteen. She appeared to be a graceful sort of girl. She had dark hair, a color similar to her companion, yet lighter. Some of her curls spilled out of her simple bonnet, only adding to her beautiful face. She smiled shyly under the man's intense gaze, before she stretched out her hand for him to take.

Prologue 2-Scotland, April 5, 1808

Posted on Sunday, 10 January 1999

"Are you warm enough dear?"

"I am a little cold," she answered her new husband.

"Come over here," he offered as he made room for her on the opposite side of the carriage.

She gladly accepted and stood up as far as the carriage roof would allow. Just then the carriage hit a bump and set the young bride into her husband's arms.

Wrapping their arms around one another he kissed her eagerly, but he knew he must stop before he lost his control. He could not and would not do anything else than kiss her, even though there was nothing more he wanted to do than kiss her. There were certain circumstances that could not be overlooked.

The newlyweds sat side by side, just satisfied to be in each others company. The bride smiled as the man she loved more than anything, carefully placed the blanket around them both. She lay her head on his shoulder and soon fell asleep.

She woke when she heard him say, "Stop, the coach!" Turning to face her he said, "I'm sorry to wake you, but we agreed. You and I would walk back to the house to avoid some suspicion, until we are ready to tell the news."

"Hmmm," she murmured as she stretched.

They stepped out of the carriage to see a thin line in the sky, the sun was rising and they should hurry.

The man turned to his driver, "Remember, quietly and do not speak a word of where you went last night. Come along, dearest," with that he pulled her arm through his and they started walking.

They walked briskly along the path that lead to the side entrance which they prayed, would not be locked.

"Damnation," he muttered as the door wouldn't budge. Turning to his wife he said, "A change of plan. I went for a ride, you went for a walk. When we came back the door was locked."

"Agreed, my love...and to make such a story genuine. You go for a ride and I'll wander around this garden for a little while," she said this gently while stroking his cheek.

He could not resist tasting her lips one more time. She was far from objecting to such an action, which made his self-control weaken even more.

His frustration was great. Most husbands didn't have to wait to truly prove how much their wife meant to them. They didn't have to control their desires. They didn't have to worry about returning their wife to her family as pure as when she had left them.

Breaking reluctantly apart he said quietly, "I should go before the servant find us here."

"Yes. The after breakfast we can inform John and Harriet of our plan...I hope they will agree."

Prologue-3 Scotland, Burnley Hall, 8 miles from Gretna Green

Posted on Tuesday, 12 January 1999

Two couples sat in the drawing room of Burnley Hall. The newlyweds sat side by side, they were being asked many questions by the other couple.

"I am still in complete shock! I DID realize you were attracted to one another, but I did not think it went as far as sneaking out of the house, in the middles of the night to get married!" cried Harriet as she jumped up from her chair and started pacing before the large fireplace.

John looked at the couple, "Are you sure this was a wise action? I mean...Did you really only marry for love?"

The two blushed at the implications of the last statement, before the man said forcefully, "I love her, John! What could be more reasonable than to marry the woman I love?"

John opened his mouth to reply, but since nothing sensible came to his mind, he closed it and looked hopelessly towards his wife.

"Think of what your families' will say!" Harriet almost screamed, although she had to admit that this was extremely romantic.

"We are not going to tell them, not yet, at least," the bride answered looking at the carpet.

"Were not going to tell them! Then what is the point in getting married, for God's sake!" John yelled.

"My dear friends," Harriet said gently, trying a different approach, "Why are you going to keep this a secret from them?"

"We have to," the man answered.

"How long are you going to conceal this from them?" John asked in a voice that was almost calm.

"I fear that it will be at the most, 4 years," replied the man.

"How are you going to communicate? For I am certain you will want to keep in touch," asked Harriet, imaging secret meetings in some secluded area.

"That is where you come in..." said the young bride.

"OH NO!" exclaimed John throwing his hands up.

"John. Let us at least listen to what they have to say," Harriet requested, "What would you have us do?"

"This is what we have planned. I will write to her, or she to me. So we can avoid suspicion, we will send a letter to one of you, with the letters for each other enclosed. Then you would send it on to her or to me," the man explained.

"I don't want any part in this deception," John said firmly.

It took two hours of arguing, begging, and pleading before John and Harriet finally agreed to the plan.

Two weeks later the newlyweds returned to their families, and so started four years of letter writing. Until, the couple was reunited. Even then, there would be problems that would have to be overcome...

Chapter 1

Posted on Sunday, 7 February 1999

Four Years Later

The dark-haired women sat on a stone bench reading a letter from her husband. He wrote lovely letters, they were very descriptive, making the women feel as if she were actually with him.

". . .Georgiana appears to be recovering her spirits admirably since the near disaster in Ramsgate. The irony of that situation does not escape me. There I was convincing her not to go to Gretna Green, when I myself have a wife whom no one knows about because we were married in Gretna Green.". . .

She quickly tucked the letter away when she heard her sister Jane calling her, "Lizzy! It is time to go to church!"

Sighing, Elizabeth went to join her sister.

"What news do you have from Harriet?" Jane asked amiably. Not even Jane knew her sister was married, nor did she know of a Mr. Darcy, for her sister hand never once mentioned him in any letters or conversations.

Elizabeth always felt guilty about her friends who made it possible for William and her to communicate. Though she always wrote a little letter to them, it must have been obvious that William had a huge, newsy letter. Harriet was always so kind, she would write a good page or two and tell her all the news, this helped with questions such as Jane had just asked.

"Harriet says she and John are quite busy with the twins and preparing for the new baby."

"I am sure they would be quite run off their feet, but I see Harriet still found time to write her usual long letter."

Elizabeth, thought it best to ignore that remark.

All through church, Elizabeth thought about the rest of William's letter. One thing that had puzzled her ever since she found out about Georgiana's intended elopement, was the fact that her husband had never told her who the man was. She knew, however, that he would tell her when the time was right.

As they walked home from church Mrs. Bennet immediately informed them of the news she had from Mrs. Long. Elizabeth nearly stopped dead in her tracks due to the little piece of news.

"A young man from the north of England with a large fortune is taking Netherfield. A single young man, my dear. His name is Bingley, and he will take possession by Michaelmas. Is this not a fine thing for our girls?"

"How so?"

"Mr. Bennet! You must know that I am thinking of his marrying one of them."

"Ah! If that be the case I shall have to put a good word in for my Lizzy."

"Do not worry about me. I am sure he would be much better suited to Jane," said Elizabeth. Ever since William had told her of his friend, Bingley, she had believed she had found the perfect match for Jane.

"Very true, Lizzy! Jane has much better chances of marrying well than you can ever hope for!" Mrs. Bennet.

'If only you knew,' thought Elizabeth.

Instead of following her family into the sitting room when the arrived at Longbourn, she quickly left for her bedchamber to read the rest of William's letter.

". . .Just think my love, by the time this letter reaches you, I will be twenty-seven, only one more year of waiting until I can claim my fortune as my own, then I can actually acknowledge you as my wife and the women I love, but as we agreed last year it will be a good idea to get married again and never admit to people that we were already married. I have lost count of the number of times we have wished my father had not left my fortune in the 'care' of Lady Catherine, but as I have said before he believed me to be behaving in a 'less than honorable fashion'.

"I truly would have hated these years had it not been for three things. Your constant affection, your cheerful and loving letters, and something you said in the first letter you ever sent me, '...think of it this way. If circumstances had been different and we had meet when your fortune was already truly yours, we may have hated one another'.

"I must go now my love. Georgiana and I are bound for a dinner party at the Fitzwilliams'.

"Your loving and devoted husband,

"Fitzwilliam

Chapter 2

Posted on Tuesday, 9 February 1999

Elizabeth repressed a sigh as she accepted a dance with Mr. Barlow. She had grown to dislike dancing, probably because she always felt disloyal to William, and dancing with someone else always reminded her how far she was from him.

As Elizabeth went through the motions of the dance, she remembered her last letter to William.

"...There is a piece of news that may interest you, if you have not already been informed of it. Your friend Bingley has taken a house near Meryton. Netherfield Park is only three miles from Longbourn. I was thinking you may try and get him to invite you, that way Harriet's visions of our meeting in a secluded place would not have been in vain."

Almost without realizing it, Elizabeth was lead off the dance floor to a chair by her friend Charlotte Lucas. She only really came back from her daydreaming when it dawned on her that Charlotte was talking to her.

"You really should try harder, Lizzy!"

"Try harder! Whatever are we talking about?"

"It is clear Mr. Barlow is enraptured with you. How do you ever hope to secure him, if you do not encourage him?"

"Secure him! Charlotte! Could you really think that?" cried Elizabeth.

"Yes, I can. I am a good eight years older than you, Lizzy. I know what it is like to look down the road at being an old maid and believe me, it is not something you should be welcoming with open arms!"

"Charlotte. I shall never worry about becoming an old maid...Oh Lord! Here is Mr. Merrick, I did promise him a dance."

With that Elizabeth resigned herself to another dance partner, who could never come close to having William's skill.

Since Mr. Merrick was not much of a conversationalist, Elizabeth was soon thinking about William, and after that the dance went by much more pleasantly.

While the third dance was starting Elizabeth went to join Jane and Charlotte, they talked happily, and just as the dance finished Charlotte looked up and said,

"Oh look! Mr. Bingley and his party have arrived. It looks like he only managed to bring two gentlemen with him, though."

Chapter 3

Posted on Monday, February 22, 1999

Elizabeth turned eagerly towards the group, she wanted to know what Mr. Bingley was like, but instead, she found herself looking at William.

William was as handsome as ever or maybe even more so. His fine features had, in fact, improved with the years. His eyes searched the room as if looking for someone. This brought a smile to her face when she thought who he could be looking for.

"Jane! Lizzy! Come here!" Mrs. Bennet called.

It was at that moment that William saw his wife. She was walking towards an older woman who he guessed was her mother. The tall blonde with Elizabeth, he assumed was Jane. William was right now on the verge of strangling Bingley, after all, he had been going on for five days about the famous local beauties, the Bennet girls. Now all he could do was tell Sir William Lucas how much he liked a county dance. William continued to turn his eyes in the direction of his wife and was gladdened each time by her meeting his gaze. Though she didn't really smile at him, her eyes conveyed all she felt. Her fine eyes said, 'I love you! Oh! How I have missed you! Do come see us, quickly!'

Elizabeth listened to her mother as she said in a high pitched whisper,

"Ł10,000 a year! Though, Mrs. Long has just told me and elderly relative is in control of his fortune...Oh, don't you think he is the handsomest man you have ever seen girls?"

"I prefer Mr. Bingley," Jane said shyly.

Elizabeth smiled and threw her husband the saucy look that she knew drove him crazy, then went on to say, "I wonder if Mr. Darcy would be so handsome, if he was not so very rich. Though I prefer him to Mr. Bingley. You shall have no competition from me in that quarter, Jane!"

"Oh Lord! They're coming over girls. Smile!" cried Mrs. .Bennet.

"Mrs. Bennet. Mr. Bingley has expressed a wish to become acquainted with you and your daughters'!" Sir William informed them beaming with importance.

"Sir! That is very good of you," simpered Mrs. Bennet, "This is Jane, my eldest. And Elizabeth, and Mary sits over there, and Kitty and Lydia, my youngest, you see them dancing."

'Yes, Mama dear! I do know who Elizabeth Anne Bennet Darcy is!' William thought rather impatiently.

Bingley smiled at the older Miss. Bennet and said, "Well, if Miss. Bennet is not already engaged, may I be so bold as to claim the next two dances?"

"I am not engaged, Sir," replied Jane blushing prettily.

Although, Elizabeth was pleased to see Jane and Mr. Bingley getting along, she was very eager for Mr. Bingley to introduce his friend. The, for once in her life, Mrs. Bennet's interference was very welcome to her second daughter.

"And you, Sir. I hope you have come here as eager to dance as your friend has."

Bingley at that point introduced his friend, as he should have in the first place, rather than staring at the angel.

"I rarely dance...However, if Miss. Elizabeth is inclined to dance with me, I am sure it would give me great pleasure."

"Of course, she will dance with you!" Mrs. Bennet answered for Elizabeth.

Looking angrily at her mother for such a display, Elizabeth said, "I would be very happy to dance with you."

The music started and as William reached out to take Elizabeth's hand, he noticed Bingley looking at them curiously. Charles and Jane followed the other couple to the dance and for the first minute of the dance Charles tried to come up with an explanation for his friends strange behavior.

First of all, when he suggested that Darcy accompany him to Meryton, Hertfordshire, Darcy couldn't wait to go. Secondly, Darcy urged him non-stop to take Netherfield and then jumped at the chance to join him there for a couple of months. Then Darcy was disappointed to not have met Mr. Bennet (Darcy had been out riding). This evening Darcy had actually been excited about the Assembly Ball (a country dance and Darcy was excited about it!). Now, Darcy, had asked someone he had only just met to dance!

"You are surprised to see me?" William whispered as he passed by Elizabeth.

"Yes," was all she had time to reply before the dance separated them.

"I told you I was coming, or did you not receive my last letter?" William asked at the next opportunity.

"No, obviously I have not."

"I sent it to Scotland by express, hoping it would reach you before I did," William said quickly.

Realizing they were being watched by may of the local gossips, her mother included, Elizabeth said in a normal tone,

"I understand you are from Derbyshire, Sir."

William, at first did not understand what his wife was doing, but when he saw a great number of people glance in their direction and then start whispering amongst themselves he fully understood and responded, "Yes, I am from Derbyshire. Have you ever been to that part of the country?"

"No, though judging by all I have heard of it, I should like to go there someday. My Aunt Gardiner lived in Derbyshire, in a little town of Lambton."

"Lambton!" cried Darcy feigning surprise, "That is but five miles from my estate. Pemberly."

"Pemberly? Indeed that does sound familiar, perhaps my aunt has mentioned it."

"Perhaps she has, Miss. Bennet," replied William amiably, quite unaware of Bingley looking at him in utter amazement.

Chapter 4

Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 1999

About an half an hour after his first dance with Elizabeth, William had watched her dance with three other men and each time he had wanted to stop them, but his staunch sense of propriety prevented him from doing any except watch and hope that he could dance with his wife once more this evening.

However, he realized her dancing with others kept up appearances, therefore he had danced with Mrs. Hurst, Miss. Bingley, Jane (must to the distress of Bingley), and finally with Miss. Lucas. He couldn't bring himself to dance with any of Elizabeth's other sisters', from what she had said of them and what he had seen of them he did not think he would enjoy himself.

Elizabeth, had now stood up with Bingley, giving William a chance to relax. Yet, he unconsciously created some rumors by watching them like a hawk.

By the end of the dance, William had decided to approach Elizabeth, once more. However, on his way to ask her, he was accosted by Sir William Lucas who insisted on discussing St. James's Court and all the delights of London Society. Then to add to William's frustration, just as Sir William had left Bingley came up to talk.

"So, Darcy, a country dance is not all that bad, is it?"

"I confess, Bingley, this particular Ball has had pleasures that no other can."

"Oh...I see," exclaimed Bingley, "Why don't you dance with Miss. Elizabeth again? She is at this moment free."

Turning to see his wife sitting with her sister Mary. William thought this would be the perfect time to tease her. After all, judging by her movements and facial expression she could hear Bingley and himself.

"I see that, Bingley, but I am in no humor to dance with young ladies who are slighted by other men!"

"Darcy! I thought you found her quite pretty."

"She is tolerable, Bingley," William said knowing he was going to get in trouble for this, "Go and dance with you partner, enjoy her smiles. Your wasting your time with me."

Bingley, happily, took his friends advice, this finally gave William the chance to see what Elizabeth thought. It was obvious she was trying to hide her amusement, but she also appeared to be plotting revenge.

Elizabeth stood up and walked passed her husband throwing him a challenging look, as she went to see her friend Charlotte. As William watched them he realized, Elizabeth was telling her friend what he had said.

He walked over to them just in time to here Miss. Lucas say,

"I think he was teasing you, Eliza. And if that be the truth, I do believe he is the perfect match for you!"

"Charlotte!"

"Miss. Elizabeth," William interrupted, "Would you do me the honor of dancing with me?"

"Indeed, sir!" replied Elizabeth smiling and really giving the old gossips something to talk about. Since it was all over the room by now that Mr. Darcy thought Elizabeth Bennet only, 'tolerable'.

During the dance it was agreed, between them, that they would discreetly slip out of the room and spend some time...alone.

Chapter 5

Posted on Saturday, 27 February 1999, at 4 : 28 p.m.

As they had agreed, Elizabeth would discreetly slip out of the room first and then about 10 minutes later, William would go and meet her in the little room, off the coat room.

William walked around the room for five minutes before he finally sat down on a chair that was out of the way of everyone and where it would be convenient to make his escape, or so he thought.

He had not been sitting there a minute before a lady, known to him a Mrs. Long, came to join him. She immediately set about asking him all sorts of impertinent questions, which he opted not to answer. Though it was not his intention, he ended up offending the meddling lady, when he said,

"I need some air!" With that William found he had quickly left the main room and was now heading in the direction of the room he and Elizabeth had agreed to meet in.

Glancing around to make sure no one was lurking about, he entered. Elizabeth was sitting on a chair and on a nearby table a small candle was burning. This single candle gave the room a very romantic atmosphere.

"William!" cried Elizabeth as she ran into his open arms.

They held each other for a minute, before William pulled back from her and started to gently caress her face. She closed her eyes enjoying the sensation, then to add to the enjoyment of both, he slowly kissed her. It would have been hard for some to put four years of longing in one kiss, but for this couple it was easily accomplished and very agreeable.

When they finally pulled apart both their faces were flushed. William was about to kiss his wife for a second and very pleasurable time, when he looked toward the door and whispered,

"Did you hear that?"

Chapter 6

Posted on Sunday, 7 March 1999

William and Elizabeth exchanged worried looks as they heard the voice of a Mr. Howard say,

"I am sure I smell smoke from in here!"

Elizabeth quickly blew out the candle and waved her hands over it to disperse the smoke. William and Elizabeth then ducked behind the door and not a moment to soon.

Mr. Howard opened the door, he looked around the room and glanced behind the door, but because William was wearing black and was hiding Elizabeth the gentleman didn't see anything in the dim light, or maybe he did, but his eyesight wasn't what it used to be.

"I definitely smell smoke!" he said rather loudly.

"My dear, please, Hetty really does need to get home, her headache is getting worse," the mans wife urged.

"Very well, but I still smell smoke!" replied he as the door closed and William and Elizabeth heaved sighs of relief.

"What do you think of our new neighbors, Mama?" asked Margaret, the youngest girl who was Lydia's age.

"Well, Mr. Bingley is a very nice young man. Mr. Darcy is a trifle proud and very handsome! But how like Mrs. Bennet to get them into dancing with her girls!"

"Why do you dislike, Mrs. Bennet, so very much?" Bridget asked. She was Mary's age.

"Oh, no reason, my love!"

"How shocking of Mr. Darcy, though!" exclaimed Margaret, "To say Elizabeth is only 'tolerable' and then not ten minutes later he asks her to dance a second time. Had I been Lizzy, I should not have accepted, no matter how handsome he may be!"

"I agree Maggie! In fact I would never dance with him," Bridget informed her family, not to mention the two listening from the other room.

"Oh yes you two would dance with him!" Mrs. Howard exclaimed, "After all, Mrs. Bennet can not expect to have all the most eligible men for her daughters. What do the Bennet girls have that you don't?"

"Mama, please may we go home?" Hetty begged.

"Yes, of course, dear," said her mother, "My dear, Mr. Howard, are we to go without you?"

"Not at all, I was just trying to think where that smoke would be from. Do you smell smoke?" he asked as they left the room.

Chapter 7

Posted on Saturday, 20 March 1999

William and Elizabeth sighed in relief as they heard the Howard family leave. Turning to his wife William said, "Am I that disagreeable?"

"There was a time I thought so...However, I quickly saw your goodness. Give the others time," Elizabeth replied honestly.

"It is not their opinions that matter to me...Your feelings and opinions are of the utmost importance to me and in a close second...What you family thinks of me."

She smiled at him, deeply touched by his sweet sentiments.

"Now," he said with a wicked smile, "Where were we..."

She had not the time to respond because her mouth was otherwise engaged. They were really beginning to enjoy themselves when in the distance they heard,

"It is the last dance of the evening!"

Elizabeth broke apart from William with a sigh, "We should go before we are missed."

"Yes," replied William regretfully, though he did not sound fully convinced.

After a quick embrace they carefully opened the door. Elizabeth left first and slipped back, unnoticed into the ballroom. About five minutes later William returned. He was, of course, observed. Everyone now knew how he had snubbed Mrs. Long, though in her telling of it, the good lady had somewhat embellished his rude behavior.

Darcy and Lizzy entered the last set, along with Jane and Bingley. Mrs. Bennet could not resist pointing this out to Mrs. Long and Lady Lucas.

Bingley's Carriage

On the journey back to Netherfield the occupants of the carriage all sat thinking about the ball.

Not that it should come as a surprise, Caroline was fuming about the number of times 'her Mr. Darcy' had danced with Eliza Bennet. 'What does a pitiful country girl have that I don't?' was Miss. Bingley's main train of thought.

Bingley was still in a daze over the charms of Miss. Bennet and in typical Bingley fashion, he couldn't help thinking how well Darcy and Miss. Elizabeth had gotten on. He thought that if all went well he and Darcy may become brothers.

William was going over every look and every word and every touch he had exchanged with Elizabeth. He also thought about how he loved her even more now, than he did when they last saw one another.

"So, Mr. Darcy. What do you think of the Hertfordshire ladies?" Miss. Bingley's annoying voice interrupted his very pleasant thoughts.

"The ladies that I talked to seemed very pleasing, charming and agreeable," he tried to block images of his mother-in-law out of his head.

Miss. Bingley took a moment to compose herself, this was far from the response she had hoped to receive. Though, never knowing when to quit, she continued, "I suppose some of them are agreeable, the eldest Miss. Bennet is one, but the mother! The three youngest girls are so very silly! And Miss. Elizabeth...well she is not worth the notice that is in my power to give!"

'You are treading on very thin ice, Miss. Bingley," thought William, while he said, "I found Miss. Elizabeth to be a very charming lady. She is not one of those fortune hunting women who make it their business to 'know' what a man wants in a women, when they really have no clue what so ever!"

So shocked was, Miss. Bingley, that she could not say a thing for the rest of the trip and even once they reached Netherfield, she was still to stunned to think very clearly.

Longbourn

"Oh, my dear Mr. Bennet!" cried Mrs. Bennet as she and her daughters entered the room, "What a pleasant evening! How I wish you had been there! Jane was so admired, Mr. Bingley danced with her twice, and thought her quite pretty! But my dear Mr. Bennet...What else do you think happened? Who do you think asked Lizzy to dance!"

"Mr. Bingley?" he replied.

"Oh! How can you be so tiresome? It was not Mr. Bingley, but none other than Mr. Bingley's friend, Mr. Darcy. He has Ł10,000 a year and a great estate in Derbyshire..."

"I thought his...well, some relative was in charge of his estate!" said Lydia always glad to offer a piece of gossip.

"True, but it is a well known fact he shall own it someday. I, myself asked Mrs. Long. Oh! What a fine thing for Lizzy!"

"I don't think he will marry Lizzy," said Kitty matter-of-factly (she really knew her mother very well), "For did you not hear what he said?"

"What did he say?" Mrs. Bennet demanded, pulling her mind away from her two eldest daughter's weddings'.

"Why, only that Lizzy was just tolerable," cried Lydia.

"Just tolerable!" screeched the distraught mother (as if she were ever anything else!).

"Mama," said Jane, "I don't know if it will be a comfort to you, but after that he danced with Lizzy a second time. Perhaps, it was just a joke..."

"Jane..."

"So, he slighted my Lizzy, did he?" said Mr. Bennet in pain (his ears were still ringing from his wife's outburst a couple of minutes before).

"I do not think he slighted me, Papa. That is...I did not take offense."

"Hmmm," replied he as he left for the peace and quiet of his Library.

Chapter 8

Posted on Tuesday, 23 March 1999

The morning following the ball found Jane and Elizabeth discussing their new neighbors.

"He is everything a young man ought to be, Lizzy. He is lively...and I never saw such happy manners."

"Well, I give you leave to like him. You have liked worse!"

Laughing at her sister's description of her, Jane continued, "And what of Mr. Darcy?"

"Mr. Darcy...Well, he is a tolerable gentleman!" said Elizabeth trying to keep her composure, remembering their...ah...meeting.

"Tolerable! Lizzy, I would have thought he would receive higher praise than that! You danced three dances with him. Mr. Bingley said it was very unlike his friend to dance with any young lady he was not particularly acquainted with. He certainly singled you out."

"It does not signify, Jane. He might have been bored and just wanted to amuse himself with dancing more than is usual." Elizabeth knew it was a pathetic excuse, but she hoped Jane wouldn't pry any further.

"Lizzy...I do believe you like..."

"OH! Look, Charlotte has come," cried Elizabeth as she ran off in the direction of her friend.

Charlotte's reason for coming to Longbourn was to invite them all to a party at Lucas Lodge. Mrs. Bennet was enchanted when Charlotte said it was a possibility that the Netherfield party would be coming.

Lucas Lodge

William had positioned himself at the mantle where he had a very good view of Elizabeth. Some small snippets of conversation were reaching him. He heard his mother-in-law say,

"Oh yes! Ł5,000 a year! And his friend..."

William didn't hear the rest but judging by the interested glances he received from, Mrs. Howard and another lady he did not know, it had something to do with his fortune.

He tried not to laugh, when he saw Elizabeth roll her eyes. William really wanted to go and talk with her, but that would mean being under the close scrutiny of the other women she was with.

William's thoughts of Elizabeth were interrupted by Lydia demanding that Mary play something else, because she wanted to dance. She won the argument with the help of her mother. 'How can they be related to Elizabeth?' thought he.

William was talking with his host when Elizabeth walked by. Sir William then suggested that they dance together, a plan that both were far from objecting to. The only catch was that the dance was not one that allowed much conversation.

The next half-hour saw William dancing with Kitty and Miss. Bridget Howard. Elizabeth talked with Charlotte and tried to keep the topic of discussion away from Mr. Darcy's obvious interest in her.

About fifteen minutes after William had finished his dance with Bridget, Elizabeth observed him discreetly going outside. Thinking this may be a good chance to talk with him, though she was fairly sure her mouth might be otherwise engaged, she made her excuses to Charlotte, saying she needed some fresh air.

Once outside she tried to ascertain which direction her husband had gone. Elizabeth took the path that led to a slightly secluded area of the gardens. She was not far from her destination when she heard a voice she recognized as Bridget Howard's say, "Oh...Thank-you very much, Mr. Darcy."

Knowing it would not be wise to be seen in the garden at night, Elizabeth ducked behind a tree and waited until she heard Bridget pass. Without further din, she emerged and went to find William.

She saw him standing looking up at the stars, he was obviously lost in thought. Sneaking up behind him, she wrapped her arms around his waist.

"Haven't you had enough my Darling?" he asked in a teasing voice.

"I could never have enough of you, Sir. As you well know!"

"AH! Elizabeth...I was wondering when you would be joining me for a moonlight stroll in this charming garden!" said he, turning around and kissing her.

They stayed this way for a good five minutes before taking a ramble through the romantic setting and then returned inside.

Chapter 9

Posted on Thursday, 25 March 1999

The morning following the party at Lucas Lodge, a letter arrived from Netherfield, for Jane.

"Oh, Jane! Who is it from?" cried Mrs. Bennet.

Pausing a moment she answered, "It is from Miss. Bingley."

"Oh...Well, that is a good sign too! Give it to me!" she said as she darted out of her chair and snatched the letter from her daughter's hand. Repositioning herself, she continued, "Dine with Louisa and me today...laddy da...laddy da...As the gentlemen are to dine with the officers...Oh that is unlucky...Still, you will go and make what you can of it."

"May I have the carriage, Father?" asked Jane.

"The carriage!" shrieked Mrs. Bennet as if 'the carriage' were a force of evil, "Jane, you must go on horseback, for it looks like rain. Then you will have to stay the night! Oh! What a shame Lizzy wasn't invited, for she could have talked with Mr. Darcy!"

It was decided, Jane would go on horseback, there were no two ways about it. Mrs. Bennet was so very delighted when it started raining not twenty minutes after Jane left. Elizabeth, on the other hand, was worrying about her sister

Netherfield

That evening when the gentlemen returned, they were immediately informed that, 'Miss. Bennet, had taken ill.' Though this caused much inconvenience to the ladies, both Bingley and his friend were genuinely concerned.

The next morning word was set to Longbourn about Miss. Bennet's condition.

Darcy was taking a walk around the grounds, not far from the house, an hour or so since the note was set off, when he came face to face with Elizabeth. Her face was brightened by the exercise and her eyes (which he had always thought, fine) were sparkling.

"Will...Mr. Darcy," said she, noticing a gardener near by.

"Miss. Bennet!"

"I am come to inquire after my sister."

"On foot?" he teased, knowing very well her love of walking.

"As you see. Would you be so kind as to take me to her?"

"This way," said he, offering her his arm.

They were not far from the house when he chuckled quietly and said, "I can here Charles's sisters' now! 'Did you see her petticoat, sister? Six inches deep in mud.' You are going to cause quite a fuss."

"You are incorrigible!" replied Elizabeth glancing at her dress.

After getting Elizabeth on her way to seeing her sister, William went to the breakfast room to inform them all of the new guest.

Thirty minutes later Elizabeth came down stairs. Much to William's relief her entering the room stopped all the mean things that were being said about her.

"How does your sister do?" asked Bingley.

"I'm afraid she is quite unwell, Mr. Bingley."

"Well, I shall send for the doctor directly and you must stay until your sister is recovered."

"That is very kind of you...But I would not wish to inconvenience anyone," said she glancing at Miss. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst.

"It would be no trouble. We will send for you clothes directly."

"Thank-you, Mr. Bingley."

Jane and Elizabeth had spent the morning with Miss. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst. Elizabeth had begun to tolerate them, but she knew very well they did not like her and she attributed that to William's obvious attentions to her.

When she went down to dinner, kind inquires were asked about Jane's health from William and Bingley. Elizabeth was unable to say that Jane was improving, but she hoped that her sister would be better in the morning. She didn't stay long and soon returned to her sister, leaving Caroline Bingley to criticize her.

Later that evening, Elizabeth, was walking down the hall to a room that had been set up for her, when she thought she heard something move behind her. Pausing, she looked around but saw nothing. Telling herself it was all her imagination she continued. Elizabeth hadn't gotten far when she felt an arm slip around her waist and a hand cover her mouth.

Chapter 10

Posted on Friday, 26 March 1999

"William!" cried Elizabeth as he 'dragged' her into his room, "What if someone finds out?"

"I don't care," replied William as he kissed her and slowly backed up towards the bed pulling Elizabeth with him.

"William...Believe me I would like nothing more than to spend the night with you...I...William are you listening to me?"

"In a way," he mumbled somewhere near her ear as he tugged her down onto the bed.

"Mr. Darcy! I am here to look after my sister. Not, however pleasant a prospect it is, to indulge in my own desires!"

"You have my attention. What do you propose? I don't think I can stand knowing you are under the same roof as I am and not with me."

"Would you at least let me go and check on Jane once more? Then I promise to come and spend the rest of the evening with you."

"Yes, go and check on you sister, make sure she lacks nothing, then return to me."

"Your wish is my command!" said Elizabeth with a smile

She made sure the coast was clear before leaving the room. Jane was resting, though she was not in her usual good health it appeared she would soon mend. After a quick stop off in her own room and changing into her nightgown Elizabeth ventured her way down the hall to her husband's room.

They talked for a while just curled up together in the large chair before the fireplace. William told her many things about Pemberley, things he couldn't have described in a letter and never had had a chance to tell her four years ago.

"So, are you going to spend the night here?" asked he running his hand up and down her back.

"I might," she teased.

"You might! I guess that leaves me with no other alternative but to try and find a way of persuading you..."

The only thing that came to mind was to kiss her and kiss her he did. Not really knowing how they made it to the bed, but they did. It was at this point that any vows they made about waiting to...well...you know...Until after their marriage was out in the open, disappeared.

The Next Morning

Darcy had been awake for ten minutes just watching his wife sleep when he heard movement coming from outside his door. If someone discovered them now it could be fatal!

"Darcy!" Bingley's voice called.

Elizabeth now woke with a start, she feared they had been found out. William gave her a signal to keep quiet and that she did.

"What is it Bingley?" asked Darcy getting out of bed and throwing his clothes on. It was all Elizabeth could do to keep from laughing when he picked up her stocking instead of his breeches.

"I thought you, Hurst and I were going shooting today," said Bingley, once his friend opened the door. William really should have stayed where he was and not opened the door. His shirt was buttoned unevenly and only half tucked in and if his smile wasn't tell all, nothing else could have been.

"I'm sorry, Bingley. I completely forgot...My mind was on other things. Give me a few minutes to get ready."

Chapter 11

Posted on Friday, 2 April 1999

Turning back to Elizabeth, William said, "Now, we have to get you out of here."

"And how would you suggest we do that?"

"I was hoping you would come up with something."

"What time do Mr. Bingley's sisters' usually rise?"

"Much later than this. We do not have to worry about them, but the servants...They are who we should worry about."

Elizabeth struggled out of the twisted sheets and started getting dressed while William passed up and down praying that he could think of a way to get his wife out of the room. He stopped his pacing when he thought he heard footsteps out in the hall. No doubt it was his servant.

Grabbing, Elizabeth by the arm he quickly opened the door to his dressing room. Just as he did that the other door to that room opened. He pushed his wife behind him and tried to hastily close the door, without his servant noticing.

"Now what?" whispered Elizabeth trying her best not to panic.

"I don't know."

They stood thinking about the next best way to get her out when William's valet asked quietly from the other side of the door,

"Are you awake, Sir?"

"Ah...Yes. I shall be out directly, Johnson."

Unfortunately, William, hadn't realized that his replying might guarantee, Johnson entering the room. Elizabeth ducked behind the door, while William tried to look inconspicuous.

"Shall you where the green coat or the dark blue coat, Sir?" asked Johnson displaying them, for his master's approval.

"It doesn't matter," answered William trying to keep the slight squeak out of his voice.

Johnson, looked confused. Usually his master was very decisive on this matter.

"Very well, the blue one, Man!" exclaimed William, "I am only going shooting. I'm not attending a ball."

Backing out of the room, he carefully laid the green coat aside and began preparing the blue coat. It was at that point that the state of his master's bed registered in his mind, being a married man, he was not unfamiliar to the explanation of the bed's state. Having worked for Mr. Darcy for 10 years he was, to say the least, surprised.

'But who?' he thought, 'Who could the lady be? Certainly not Miss. Bingley! I thought I knew my master well, Mr. Darcy was a great man of honor, he would never stoop to such levels. Who was she? What about those two young ladies who were visiting? The elder of the two has to be immediately ruled out. After all she is supposedly very ill. But the second girl? Was the second girl an impossibility? No, she wasn't...'

"Johnson!" said William a little louder than the first two times.

"Yes, Sir. The blue one, Sir."

'Good God!' said Johnson, to himself, 'The master is wearing the same clothes as he was yesterday.'

Little did they know that down in the breakfast room, at that very moment, Mr. Bingley had just had a similar revelation about his friend, 'More odd behavior!' thought Bingley.

As William finished buttoning his clean shirt, Johnson turned around to get the starched necktie. At that moment Johnson thought he saw, through the crack in the door to his master's bedchamber, a piece of white cloth. He allowed his eyes to travel upwards and saw that the white cloth did as well. It was almost like someone was standing behind the door.

"Johnson! The necktie, please!" cried William, becoming very exasperated by his valet's lack of attention. 'At this rate Bingley will be back at the door demanding to know what is taking so long and I still have to get Elizabeth out of here.'

"Yes, Sir!" answered he, producing the requested article.

Once, Johnson had finished tying the cravat in the appropriate style, William dismissed him. When the door was closed two huge sighs of relief broke the silence in the room, in fact, it sounded like they could have blown down Netherfield.

Elizabeth came out from behind the door and gave her husband the 'one eyebrow higher than the other' look, that he always found charming. She asked, "Have you thought of a plan?"

"The only thing I can think of is that you try to get to your room, unnoticed. If you should see someone, just pretend you came from your sister's room..."

"That is exactly what I was thinking," replied Elizabeth draping her shawl over her shoulders.

Luckily she made it to her room unnoticed and William was able to appear somewhat composed before Bingley and Mr. Hurst. However, during the mornings sport, William was caught with an unusually happy grin on his face, that was utterly bizarre.

Chapter 12A

Posted on Friday, 2 April 1999

Johnson, walked down the halls of Netherfield to the servants quarters, lost in thought. He had always been acutely aware of how lucky he was to have such a generous master. Mr. Darcy always allowed him to bring his wife, Ettie, along. Ettie worked as an assistant to the cook in all the great houses they visited, and she quickly became indispensable to them.

They had traveled all over, thanks to Mr. Darcy. Visiting such places as London, Bath, and even spending a short while in Ramsgate, last year. They visited Kent regularly, and stayed at Matlock. Once, about four years ago they had traveled to Scotland.

'Scotland, was a welcome relief to all of us,' thought Johnson, 'Mr. Darcy had recently lost his father and Ettie and I had lost that little baby.'

Shaking himself out of such gloomy thoughts he entered the kitchen in search of his wife.

"Thomas," said Ettie with a smile, "Would you like some tea?"

"I'd love a cup, Dearest."

She set about getting him a cup of tea while the cook muttered about the ridiculous menu Miss. Bingley had ordered.

"Tom...Thomas," said she, "Your tea."

"Thank-you," replied Johnson.

"Mrs. Johnson. Take a rest, I have to send the boy out for some fish," the cook directed with a sigh.

"Where were you?" asked Ettie sitting down on the chair opposite him.

"I was helping, Mr. Darcy, you know that."

"No. Just now, you were miles away."

"That I was...Do you remember when we went to Scotland four years ago and stayed at Burnley Hall?"

"How could I forget? But, why would that come to mind now?" she asked taking a sip.

"You may remember, I told you the master was acting mighty strange."

Ettie nodded.

"Do you remember that young lady, the friend of Mrs. Burnley? She was practically a child, not much more'n 16."

"Dark hair?"

"That's the one. The master always seemed like he was trying to impress her. Now, Mr. Darcy is always a man who dresses well, he always has been careful to appear orderly, but when it was possible he would meet her, he took so much care to make sure he looked just right. I mean, the Master would be very disappointed if his cravat wasn't quite straight, it would look fine to me but he could find fault with it."

"What is the point of all this dear?" asked Ettie patiently, she knew how her husband could rattle on.

"Now, I never told this to no one," he leaned in closer, "One night about two weeks before we returned to Derbyshire, he sent for me. It was around 10:00, I couldn't think what he would want. It turned out he wanted me to ready some clothes for him. Ettie, the man was a nervous wreck! He couldn't tie the bloody, pardon me, he couldn't tie his cravat. He then asked me not to breath a word of this to a single soul."

Ettie knew her husband was exaggerating on the 'single soul' part and that the pause was for dramatic affect.

He continued, "It was the next morning that I was walking past the drawing room that I heard Mr. Burnley say 'I don't want any part in this deception'."

"What does that prove?"

"It proves that something was afoot!"

"I do admit, I am curious, still I don't see what this has to do with anything."

"Well, once, about a week later, now I am not sure of this, I thought I saw him and the young lady kissing."

Ettie merely raised an eyebrow.

"Ettie, don't you see. There was something going on between those two. Now, I ask you. What was the young lady's name?"

"B something...ah...Benson...Benton..."

"Bennet?" asked her husband.

"Bennet! That was it..."

"Now, what is the name of the young ladies who are guests here?"

"Oh my Lord! ...Bennet."

"Does not the second girl remind you of the one we saw in Scotland?"

"Silly! She is the one," exclaimed Ettie.

"Now, if you had seen the shape my master's bed was in this morning, even you would have to admit something had happened."

"I can't believe it. He certainly isn't the kind of man who would take a mistress."

"Exactly, if you remember, Burnley Hall was not very far from Gretna Green."

"No! He didn't! ...Why would he not tell his family if that is truly what happened?"

"Remember the Crone of Rosings Park is in charge of Pemberley and lives in hope that the master will marry Miss. Anne."

Just then two of the chambermaids' came into the room with the sheets for the washing.

"Did you see Miss. Elizabeth Bennet's bed," one of them asked, "Wasn't even slept in!"

"While Mr. Darcy's bed was very slept in!" cried the other with a high pitched giggle.

Ettie received a pointed look from her husband.

The conversation continued, but Mr. Black (not his real name), knew that his 'master' would be very well pleased with this information. He remained hidden in the dark corner before slipping out just as he had come, unnoticed.

Chapter 12B

Posted on Saturday, 3 April 1999

The gentlemen returned from their sport around ten. They were informed by Miss. Bingley that 'Miss. Eliza' had sent for her mother and that the women had soon come. They were also told that Mrs. Bennet had the impudence to bring her two youngest daughters with her.

"Are we to be invaded by every Bennet in the country? It is too much to be born!" Miss. Bingley complained as she followed the gentlemen into the sitting room.

"I quite agree!" Mrs. Hurst chimed in.

No one else said a thing. Mr. Hurst left, not wanting to be in the same room with those women.

A few moments later Mrs. Bennet with three of her daughters came into the room.

"Mrs. Bennet, I hope you did not find Miss. Bennet worse than you expected," said Bingley hopefully.

"Indeed, I have!" cried Mrs. Bennet, "She is a great deal to ill to be moved. We must trespass a while longer on your kindness."

"Of course," said Mr. Bingley, happy to be of any service to Miss. Bennet.

"Miss. Bennet, shall receive every possible attention. We assure you, madam," said Miss. Bingley in a very cold voice.

"That is very kind of you. She suffers a vast deal, I am afraid, though with the greatest patience in the world, for that is her way. My dear Jane has the sweetest nature I have ever met with, Mr. Bingley, I often tell my other girls that they are nothing to her!" This was said with a pointed look at Elizabeth.

William was angered by this speech, especially since it so degraded his Elizabeth. She had often told in her letters of how it was a well known fact at Longbourn that she was her mother's least favorite child, but this was the first time he had witnessed, for himself, the truth of Elizabeth's statements.

"Well, this is a sweet room you have here!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet, dragging William back to the present, "I think you will never want to leave Netherfield."

"Indeed, I should be happy to live in the country forever!"

"You would?" questioned William with a wicked glance in Elizabeth's direction, "You don't find the society somewhat confined and unvarying for your taste."

"Confined! Unvarying! Indeed it is not, sir! The country is a vast deal more pleasant that town, whatever you may choose to say about it!"

"Mama! You misunderstood Will...Mr. Darcy's meaning," cried Elizabeth as she blushed realizing what she had almost called him. Mr. Bingley's look of surprise didn't help matters, she knew he had realized what she was about to call 'Mr. Darcy'.

"Do I? He seems to think the country is nothing at all," barked Mrs. Bennet at the back of the offending gentlemen who was now looking out a window.

"Mama!" hissed Elizabeth, but to no avail.

"I'll have him know we dine with four and twenty families!" With that she moved to sit down on a chair with huff.

Everyone, but Mrs. Bennet, heard the laughter of Miss. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst.

Thankfully the visit did not last much longer and Mrs. Bennet left, much confused by Mr. Darcy's behavior. One minute he was attentive to her daughter, then the next he was offending everyone.

The rest of the day passed much as the previous one. Miss. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst spent some time with Jane, who continued to mend, but slowly. Not that Elizabeth wished her sister ill, but she hoped she would not recover too soon.

In the evening Elizabeth descended the stairs with the intention of joining the party for dinner, she was told, by Fosset, that Mr. Bingley was in the dining room. Thanking him, she stood for a moment trying to remember which way to turn when she heard a noise from a room down the hall.

When she entered the room she beheld her husband playing billiards, obviously this was not the dining room. He straightened up and smiled at her.

"How is your sister, Miss. Bennet?"

"I believe she is a little better," replied Elizabeth shyly. Their activities of the night before made it hard for her not to blush in his presence.

"I'm glad to hear it," said he as he put his jacket back on.

Coming towards her he said gallantly, "May I escort you to dinner?"

"Yes, sir."

They had almost reached the dining room when she felt him slip something into her hand that was resting on his strong arm.

Chapter 13

All through dinner Elizabeth squirmed in anticipation to read the note, she had discovered that was what it was, that William had given her.

Making her sister the excuse, Elizabeth left. She really was going to check on Jane, but first she had to read the note. Going into her room she unfolded the piece of paper, and read in the familiar hand.

Dearest Loveliest Elizabeth,

Come to my room tonight? I have a plan. You come downstairs to the drawing room and spend the evening with us, reading or something. Then around 9:30, say you must check on your sister one last time before retiring. As you stand up pretend to feel ill, a headache, perhaps. I (the dashing hero I am) will then offer to escort you to your bedchamber. Actually, I will take you to my chamber. Then, I will come back downstairs and make my apologies, saying I am retiring for the evening and in no time I will be back at your side.

I will know your answer judging by what happens at 9:30.

You Loving husband,

William

She smiled as she tucked the letter away in her things. 'You will know my answer at 9:30, William,' she thought.

After making sure her sister lacked nothing, Elizabeth returned downstairs. She entered the drawing room to find Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst at cards, while Mrs. Hurst watched. She located her husband at a table to the side of the room. Elizabeth would not have minded this sight, had not she observed Caroline Bingley to the right of William and obviously commenting on something.

"Miss. Bennet, is your sister improving?" asked Bingley.

"I believe so, Sir. I fact, I can see no harm in her coming down here for an hour or so, tomorrow."

"That is a wonderful idea!" exclaimed Bingley happily.

Elizabeth moved to the small seat that allowed her to hear all the conversation that passed between her husband and Miss. Bingley. Taking up some needlework she prepared herself to wait for 9 :30.

"Oh, Mr. Darcy! How can you write such a charming letter?"

William made no answer.

"How delighted Miss. Darcy will be to receive such a long letter!"

Again, William made no reply.

"You write uncommonly fast."

"You are mistaken, for I write rather slowly," replied he.

"You must have to write so many letters during the course of the year! Letters of business too! I should think it a very odious task!"

"It is fortunate that they should fall to my lot, then. However, I find that some letters are a pleasure to write. Such as a letter to my sister, and other...good friends," said William, with a glance in Elizabeth's direction as he uttered 'good friends'.

"Pray, tell your sister how I long to see her."

"I have done so all ready, at your request."

Elizabeth was beginning to feel angry. He was her husband and what right did Miss. Bingley have to talk to him so!

"How can you contrive to write so even?" asked the lady with a batting of eyelashes that really annoyed Elizabeth.

Determined not to let this go any further, Elizabeth rose from her seat and went over to the other side of William. Saying in a voice that was very a very well done replica of Miss. Bingley's she said, "Oh, Miss. Bingley...I do believe you are right. Mr. Darcy does write very evenly! And I am sure that should I read this letter I would find that he does, indeed, write very charmingly!"

William hid a smile behind his hand, it was all too obvious that Elizabeth was feeling somewhat jealous of the Lady in Orange, not that she had to worry.

"Compared to some, Mr. Darcy has a very elegant hand," said Miss. Bingley with a look in her brother's direction.

Bingley did not miss this for he had been observing the three of them, so he said cheerfully, "I know very well that you meant me Caroline. The only excuse I can offer is that my thoughts flow so rapidly that I end up leaving out half my words and blotting the rest. Darcy on the other hand studies too much for words of four syllables!"

"Mr. Bingley, your humility disarms any reproof! Yet, I am certain that Mr. Darcy would not study for four syllable words as you say he does when he is writing letters of a personal nature. Perhaps you should ask his sister if her letters show any sign of her brother's sitting for a good minute or two thinking of just the right word," said Elizabeth.

"I would have to disagree with you Miss. Bennet," said William, "For I am certain that should you read some of my letters that are of, as you put it, a personal nature, you would find that I do use as many four syllable words as possible! It is always my intention to convey my words in a descriptive manner that make the reader feel like they are with me."

"Honestly, I did not mean to start a discussion on Darcy's style of writing, I was merely trying to think of a way to illustrate our different ways of writing!" cried Mr. Bingley completely unaware of the hidden messages being sent between Elizabeth and William the last few minutes.

"I see, Mr. Bingley, but you must own that it is an interesting topic!" laughed Elizabeth.

"I suppose it is, Miss. Bennet."

With that Miss. Bingley went to talk with her sister, Bingley returned to the card game, William finished his letter to his sister, and Elizabeth concentrated on her needlework. For some minutes there was no sound in the room aside from the occasional rustle or the tick of the clock.

When the game was finished Mr. Bingley asked his sisters' and Elizabeth to play, for them. Miss. Bingley was all too pleased to show off her talents while, Elizabeth, politely refused.

Miss. Bingley was somewhat angered when William pulled a chair close to Elizabeth and there they sat quietly conversing until he song ended which she realized a little to late was a rather long piece, so it was with great relief that she finally handed the piano over to her sister.

Mrs. Hurst thought she may help her sister by playing a dance tune, however, she could not know how that 'played' perfectly into William and Elizabeth's plans.

"Do you not feel a sudden urge to dance, Miss. Bennet?"

"Indeed, I do."

"Well, please allow me the honor of dancing with you."

"I shall be glad to!"

As she stood up Elizabeth brought her hand to her head. William instantly asked in a genuinely concerned voice, "Are you ill?"

"I am afraid I do not feel my best. Perhaps I should retire for the evening, I could hardly help my sister recover by becoming ill myself."

"Then, allow me to escort you to your room, Miss. Bennet," said he unaware of the shocked look he was reciveing from Miss. Bingely.

"It is not necessary, Sir. I would not wish to inconvenience you."

"It would be no trouble to me."

"No, I shall just make my way to my room." Her eyes really told him to follow her up, soon after she left.

'Ah...You are wise my dear,' thought he, 'It would be considered improper for me to come with you.'

Everyone said goodnight and Elizabeth made her way upstairs. After checking on her sister one last time she made her way to William's chamber. She had not been in his room 10 minutes before he came.

After a warm embrace he said, "You had me fooled! I thought you really were ill, had I not seen the look in your eyes I would still be downstairs. After all, why should I retire early unless you are with me."

"I always wanted to be an actress! It would appear I have a natural talent of making my audience believe what I want them to. To think, had you been fooled I would have been sitting here thinking you to be the most frustrating and insensitive man in all the world!"

"That would have been a pity," he murmured as he kissed her.

This night they just lay in the bed and talked. So by four o'clock Elizabeth was safely back in her own room and no one was suspicious. What neither of them took into consideration was that the previous morning some suspicions had a been formed, not to mention the dark forces stirring with the help of Mr. Black.

Chapter 14

Posted on Sunday, 4 April 1999

A man descended from his horse at a less than reputable tavern. His informant was going to meet him here. Going inside he ordered himself a drink. Spying, Mr. Black in the corner bent over his tankard the man worked his way towards him.

"You have information for me..."

"Money, first."

Throwing a bag at Mr. Black, that rattled with loose coins, he growled, "Tell me."

"T'ould appear, your Mr. Darcy ain't such a gentleman. He 'as," leaning in closer and taking a swig from the tankard, he continued, "A wife."

"Yes! Anything else?"

"He's staying at Netherfield, in Hertfordshire not far from Meryton, you were right 'bout that. Can you ever cause some trouble for 'im, when you go there. I believe 'is wife is one of the local girls. Seems to me she was staying at tha' fine house with her older sister and judging from what I 'eard from them maids he and..."

"You ass! I told you not to speak with anyone!" snarled the man as he grabbed his 'friend' by the coat.

There was a small struggle that gained some unwanted attention from the occupants of the tap house, calming themselves down, Mr. Black said defensively, "I didna speak to nobody! I just 'eard 'em say that it looked like Miss. Bennet's bed 'adn't been slept in, while Mr. Darcy's 'ad been very slept in..."

"How, does that prove she is his wife? And who is she...What is her name beside Miss. Bennet, you said there was an older sister?"

"You want proof...I was listenin' to his valet and the valet's wife a talkin'. They seem to 'member that he was quite taken by a women he met in Scotland, 'sides...Does it matter if she's 'is wife? I believe the wench's name is Elizabeth."

"Thank-you, Black. Continue to monitor him, I have other plans. Contact me should you receive anymore interesting information."

With that he left the tavern, called for his horse, and road off into the night.

Chapter 15

Posted on Friday, 16 April 1999

The following day saw William reluctantly taking a walk in the shrubbery with Miss. Bingley. The lady was trying to provoke him into disliking her guest by talking about their supposed marriage. How shocked and embarrassed she would have been to know that they were already far better aquatinted than she knew.

"I hope," said she, "you will give your mother-in-law a few hints about the advantages of holding her tongue, when this desirable event takes place. Also, do try and cure the younger girls of their infatuation with the officers. And, if I may mention a delicate subject, do try checking that thing, bordering on conceit and impertinence, which you fair lady possesses!"

"Have you anything else to propose for my domestic felicity?"

"Oh, yes. Do let the portraits of you uncle and aunt Phillips be placed in the gallery at Pemberley! As for your Elizabeth's picture...Do not attempt to have it taken, for no painter could capture the expression that is on her face."

"Especially her eyes," said William, determined to give Miss. Bingley even more cause for worry, "Have you ever seen such fine eyes! It would not be easy to catch their expression. Their color and shape, and the eyelashes, so remarkably fine, might be captured."

This seemed to quiet the lady. She was about to say something when at that moment they were met from another walk by Mrs. Hurst and Elizabeth herself.

"I did not know you intended to walk," said Miss. Bingley with some confusion, lest they had been overheard.

"You used us abominably ill, " answered Mrs. Hurst, "For you ran off with out even telling us you were coming out."

Mrs. Hurst then took the disengaged arm of William's, she left Elizabeth to walk by herself. William felt their rudeness towards his wife and immediately said,

"This walk is not wide enough for our party. We had better go into the avenue."

Laughing, Elizabeth said, "No, no, stay were you are. You are charmingly grouped and the picturesque would be ruined by admitting a fourth. Good bye."

With that she ran off in the other direction. William was very much surprised by this that he turned to watch her retreat, as he did his eye was caught by Elizabeth's scarf lying on the ground. Breaking free from the ladies he bent down to retrieve it, "Excuse me, ladies. I must return this to Miss. Bennet." With a hasty bow he left them in pursuit of his wife.

It did not take him long to find his wife, for she had stopped a short distance away. Obviously she had hoped he would see the scarf and bring it to her.

"I must thank-you my dear, for saving me from those two!"

"My motives were entirely selfish, I assure you. I wanted you all to myself!"

"I am happy to be of service, madam," said William with a gallant bow.

The rest of the morning was spent pleasantly. They walked through the grounds talking solemnly when someone was near. And laughing at private jokes when they were alone, or so they thought. For all through the afternoon they were being observed by Mr. Black.

Later that day, the ladies had removed after dinner, Elizabeth ran up to see her sister, and seeing her well guarded from the cold, attended her into the drawing room. She was welcomed by her two friends and until the gentlemen arrived Elizabeth had never seen the 'Superior Sisters'' in better humor.

When the gentleman arrived Mr. Hurst gave Jane a quick bow saying he was 'very glad' she had recovered. William said kindly, "I am glad to see that you are well again Miss. Bennet. Certainly your sister is much to be thanked for her attentions to you!"

"Indeed, Mr. Darcy, Lizzy is always good to me...Sometimes she is perhaps too good."

William just smiled. The greatest exclamations of joy, on Miss. Bennet's recovery, came from Mr. Bingley who then spent the next half hour making sure she was comfortable and even then, he talked mostly to her.

No one, except Mr. Hurst, wanted to play cards that evening so soon that gentleman had stretched on the sofa and was snoring, rather loudly. Mrs. Hurst played with her bracelets and rings and occasionally joined into her brother's conversation with Miss. Bennet. William, Elizabeth, and Miss. Bingley were all engaged in reading. However, Miss. Bingley seemed more interested in William's book than her own.

At length, quite exhausted by the attempt to be amused by her book Miss. Bingley cast it aside with an exaggerated yawn. She then went on to say something about how unhappy she would be, if she did not have an excellent library, when she had a house of her own. Since no one made a reply she started search for some other way of getting William's attention.

Miss. Bingley began a slow walk around the room, hoping to draw William into some sort of conversation, this didn't work. Finally after much thought she approached Elizabeth, "Miss. Eliza Bennet, let me persuade you to take a turn around the room...It is so refreshing!" This was said as she glanced at William, she was somewhat disappointed to realize they now had his full attention.

After a moments hesitation, Elizabeth joined the lady. They had just turned around when Miss. Bingley turned to Mr. Darcy and said, "Would you care to join us, Sir?"

"That would defeat the object."

"What on earth can he mean?" cried Miss. Bingley to Elizabeth.

With a saucy look to her husband Elizabeth replied, "I think we would do better not to inquire."

"Nay, we insist on knowing you meaning!"

"Well, either you chose this method of spending the evening because you are in each others confidence, or you are aware that your figures appear to the greatest advantage when walking. If the first I would be completely in the way and if the second, I can admire you much better from my present position."

"Shocking! Abominable reply! How shall we punish him Miss. Eliza?"

"Nothing so easy! Tease him...Laugh at him."

"Laugh at Mr. Darcy, impossible! He is a man without fault," declared Miss. Bingley.

"A man without fault...Is he, indeed?" asked Elizabeth, with a small smile.

"That is not possible for anyone," started William, "But it has been my study to avoid such weaknesses that expose a strong understanding to ridicule."

"Such as vanity and pride," said Elizabeth, becoming serious.

"Yes, vanity is a weakness indeed. But pride...where there is a real superiority of mind, pride will always be under good regulation."

Elizabeth turned away to compose herself, she was unsure as to how to continue. She was spared any need of replying for William continued.

"I have faults enough, but they are not, I hope, of understanding, Miss. Bennet," William was beginning to feel uncomfortable with her so ready to laugh at him, "My temper I dare not vouch for. My good opinion once lost is lost forever, it might be...Perhaps my temper could be called resentful."

"That is a failing indeed! But I can not laugh at it," said Elizabeth quietly.

"Shall we have some music?" asked Miss. Bingley, not liking the fact that this conversation was one in which she had no part in.

Soon after, Elizabeth escorted Jane back to her room. Elizabeth did not go back downstairs, instead she went to her own room. William had given her much to think about, she realized that he had been in earnest when he said his temper was resentful, this caused her pain, for she saw that he had been getting somewhat angered by her teasing. Her last thought as she drifted off into an uneasy sleep was, 'I think it best if Jane and I leave tomorrow.'

Chapter 16

Posted on Monday, 26 April 1999

Elizabeth did, indeed, carry out her plan that she had made the night before. She rose early and hastily scribbled a note to her mother, asking if the carriage could be spared. An hour or so after she had sent the servant to Longbourn, she received an answer from her mother.

Lizzy,

I will not hear of you and Jane returning. The carriage can not be spared until next Tuesday, besides it would be unwise for Jane to travel so soon. She might catch cold again.

Your loving Mother

PS. Should Mr. Bingley and his sister invite you to stay longer I can spare you very well.

Elizabeth was determined not to stay any longer. Going to Jane, it was agreed between them that they would ask Mr. Bingley if he would be so kind as to lend them his carriage. Mr. Bingley concurred with the plan, somewhat reluctantly, he managed to convince them to stay until the following morning.

Though she was not in the least bit angry with her husband she feared that he was angry with her. Something else gave her cause for concern and that was how much trouble she was having when it came to letting things slip, such as calling 'him' William instead of the proper 'Mr. Darcy'. She was certain that Mr. Bingley already knew that there was more to the relationship between William and herself, than met the eye.

The day was spent quietly, enough. Elizabeth learned that, 'Mr. Darcy was catching up on some correspondence'. So you may imagine her surprise when she found him reading in the Library. She had gone in the room to get a book to entertain herself with and had come across him, William barely acknowledged her presence. All he did was look up, nod, and continue reading.

Elizabeth settled herself in the window seat and tried to concentrate on her book. Finally she could stand it no more, she turned to William and said,

"I am truly sorry, Mr. Darcy, if I have offended you in some way!"

William was very surprised by this sudden outburst. He had been ignoring her, for, he was still smarting from some of the remarks she had made the previous evening.

"You have not offended me, Madam," replied William coolly.

"Then why are you acting like I am not even in this room?"

"I was not doing that!" William defended himself.

"Then what were you doing?" asked Elizabeth forcefully.

"I was merely enjoying being in your company and reading," said William trying to keep the edge out of his voice.

After a small pause Elizabeth said quietly, "I am sorry. It's just that..."

"Think nothing of it. Oh! I just realized what time it was I have some business to catch up with. Do excuse me," cried he in a hurried manner and left the room.

As he closed the door, he thought, 'Women!'

They hardly conversed the rest of the visit and when it came time for Jane and Elizabeth to leave William merely said, "Good-bye, Miss. Bennet," to Jane and a cold, "Good-bye, Miss. Elizabeth."

Chapter 17

Posted on Wednesday, 28 April 1999

The day following Jane and Elizabeth's return to Longbourn, Mr. Bennet announced that there would be an addition to the family party. His cousin, Mr. Collins would be joining them later that day. Mrs. Bennet was, not surprisingly, against this plan, but nothing she said could change what was coming.

That evening at supper, Elizabeth was well aware of the stupidity of their cousin. She could hardly keep herself from laughing at the description Mr. Collins gave of, Lady Catherine. She knew very well, that the lady was not such a saint. Elizabeth was still suffering from the embarrassment she had experienced earlier that morning, when at the mention of 'Mr. Darcy' she had blushed and when she had dropped her fork when her father read the name 'Lady Catherine'.

It was obvious to Elizabeth that her father was keeping a close eye on her, as if he was waiting for some indication that something was different. Little did any of them now that something was different.

The following morning Elizabeth and her sisters were enjoying the air, while Mr. Collins and Mrs. Bennet took a turn around the garden.

"I must confess, Mrs. Bennet, that I am quite taken with the charms of your daughters," he just oozed charm.

"Well, they are pleasant girls, though I say it myself."

"Perhaps, the eldest Miss. Bennet," Mr. Collins hinted.

"Ah, yes! Jane is admired wherever she goes, but I think I should tell you that it is very likely she will be soon engaged. As to my younger daughters, I know of no prior attachment at all!" Mrs. Bennet did not see things progressing very well between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, so she thought her second daughter may have more luck with Mr. Collins, should he choose her.

"I see," replied Mr. Collins as he started to look at the other Bennet girls.

'Too loud and silly,' he was looking at Lydia.

'Too much like, Miss. Lydia,' thought he looking at Kitty.

'Eeeeeewwwwww!,' he glanced at Mary.

'Well, now! That is a pleasant surprise!' thought Collins with a gasp as Elizabeth smiled.

"We are going to walk into Meryton, Mama. To see if Denny has returned from town!" called Lydia.

"Perhaps you would care for some exercise, Mr. Collins," suggested Mrs. Bennet.

"Yes. Yes, indeed I would! Cousin Elizabeth, would you do me the very great honor of walking with me into town?"

Elizabeth could hardly refuse, though there was nothing she wanted more than to push this greasy little man off Oakham Mount.

As they walked to Meryton, Elizabeth was stuck having to listen to all Mr. Collins had to say. He was obviously not in the habit of walking farther distances than from his 'own humble abode' to 'Rosings Park'. Mr. Collins was huffing and puffing before they were even half way to Meryton!

They had reached the town and now Kitty and Lydia were searching the street for any sign of Mr. Denny. They saw him across the street with another man, who much to Lydia's disappointment was not dressed in regimentals.

"Denny!" hollered Lydia.

"Lydia!" gasped Jane, ashamed of her youngest sister's lack of manners.

The two gentlemen sauntered over to the group and Mr. Denny addressed them,

"Well, this is fortunate! Allow me to introduce my good friend, Mr. Wickham."

"Wickham this is Miss. Bennet, Miss, Elizabeth Bennet, Miss Mary Bennet, Miss Catherine Bennet, and Miss Lydia Bennet."

'So, this is Darcy's little wife!' thought Wickham as he eyed Elizabeth.

"Wickham has just taken a commission in the regiment," Denny informed them.

"There, Lydia! He will be dressed in regimentals!" Kitty whispered to Lydia.

They giggled for a minute, before Kitty looked up and saw two riders approaching, "Jane, Lizzy look! It is Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy!"

Mr. Bingley came towards them eagerly, as did William. William was about to dismount when he saw that man! And to make matters worse he was standing near Elizabeth. Wickham touched his hand to his hat in salute, while William glanced in Elizabeth's direction, before riding off.

Elizabeth noted the behavior of her husband. Was he still angry at her? She didn't see Mr. Wickham's relieved expression, though she had seen the 'interesting' greeting exchanged between the two men.

Chapter 18

Posted on Saturday, 1 May 1999

The next day, in the evening, the Bennet girls, accompanied by Mr. Collins went to their Aunt Phillips. When they entered the drawing room, Mrs. Phillips informed her nieces that Mr. Wickham had accepted their uncle's invitation, Lydia and Kitty were most pleased with this information.

Elizabeth did everything in her power to find a way out of Mr. Collins company. After Mr. Collins had insulted his hostess, and then rectified the situation, Elizabeth was finally free of the man, since Mrs. Phillips had asked him to come play at whist.

Elizabeth had been sitting by herself for a while, watching the people and praying Lydia would not make a complete fool out of herself, when her thoughts were interrupted by Mr. Wickham taking the seat opposite her.

"I confess, I thought I would never escape your younger sisters!" cried he good-naturedly.

"They can be very determined. Lydia , especially."

"Well, they are charming girls. I... ah... I do not see Mr. Bingley or any of his friends here this evening." Wickham was rewarded with a slight blush.

"I believe some of Mr. Bingley's friends would consider it beneath their dignity," Elizabeth was feeling a little miffed at William's greeting, so she was completely ready to give her husband a verbal bashing, even if he wasn't there to here it. Also, she was anxious to learn the history between her husband and Mr. Wickham.

"Really!"

'One thing Black didn't tell me! Husband and wife appear to have had a little disagreement!' thought Wickham. He plotted how to use this to his advantage.

"Do you... that is... How long have you been aquatinted with Mr. Darcy?"

"About a month," answered Elizabeth refusing to blush.

"I've known him all my life," replied Wickham cautiously trying to ascertain how much Darcy had told his wife of their dealings.

Elizabeth was unable to say a word. Never, during all the time she and William had been writing to one another, had she heard tell of a Mr. Wickham.

'Why is that?' Elizabeth thought.

"You may very well be surprised, Miss. Bennet. After, as I am sure you did, witness the coldness of our greeting."

'That is not very nice, Darcy! Concealing things from your wife, thankfully I am here to protect her!'

"I confess, I was surprised. I have spent three days in the same house with him and I must admit I found him to be quite agreeable. Should I think differently, Mr. Wickham?" Elizabeth was beginning to feel slightly uneasy.

"Indeed! I do hope that... No I dare not say, for it is not proper."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow at this, though she did not want to appear to be anything less than a lady, she could not help but asking, "What is improper?"

Glancing around him Wickham leaned in closer and said, "I don't know whether I should be discussing such matters with a lady, but I feel I must warn you of his true character. He has a mistress, Miss. Bennet. Lady Claudia Ashby, she is a women who moves in the finest circles, everyone in London knows it."

Chapter 19

Posted on Tuesday, 4 May 1999

'What had Mr. Wickham just said!? A mistress! William! I can't believe it!' thought Elizabeth.

"Miss. Bennet are you ill?" Mr. Wickham asked, but secretly glad that his plan was working.

"I am well," she whispered.

"Are you sure?" his voice was dripping with false concern.

"Yes, I am fine. I... ah... I just need some air," with that she stood up and walking on unsteady legs made her way outside.

Elizabeth didn't even notice the slight chill, she just replayed Mr. Wickham's words in her head, over and over again, 'He has a mistress, Miss. Bennet.'

"I won't believe it!" she muttered, yet she knew very well that she was already doubting her husband's loyalty.

Stopping, in her walk, she looked up at the sky, praying that Mr. Wickham was wrong. The stars blurred as tears welled up in her eyes, try as she might she couldn't deny the possibility. They had not seen each other in four years, he could have been tempted.

"But can I forgive him?" she asked through her tears, a voice in her head answered, 'No. He should have remained faithful to me, as I remained faithful to him.'

As she walked back to the her aunt and uncle's, her tears drying, Elizabeth made up her mind. She was not going to feel sorry for herself. When she entered the drawing room, those who knew her well observed a change, her face showed none of the turmoil that her heart and mind were in, her eyes, however, held a different story. The liveliness and love of life had, in the space of minutes, disappeared from her 'fine eyes', only to be replaced by an unyielding and determined glare.

Chapter 20

On the carriage ride back to Longbourn, Lydia and Mr. Collins rambled on, never talking to each other, but often speaking at the same time. Elizabeth heard none of it, all she thought of was her life ahead of her. When it came time for William to claim his inheritance and they would marry again, to avoid suspicion, she would do as they had planned. Then, once she had provided him with a son and heir, the only time they would meet would be when they were in company, when they ate a family meal, or if they met by accident.

Jane observed her sister from across the carriage. She wondered what had happened to Elizabeth that would upset her so much. Her sisters face was like stone and during the ride home, all Elizabeth did was glare into the darkness.

When the carriage pulled to a stop outside of Longbourn, instead of going to the drawing room, Elizabeth rushed upstairs to her room. Jane seemed to be the only one who heard the amount of force, Elizabeth used to shut her door.

All Elizabeth wanted was to be left alone... 'No! What you really want to do is go tell him what you think!' she told herself. In an attempt to rid her mind of such thoughts, she readied herself for bed. She was about to blow out the candle when she heard a quiet knock at the door.

"Lizzy," Jane opened the door and came in.

"Yes, Jane!" cried Elizabeth irritably.

"I'm sorry, Lizzy. I thought you were looking a little upset, I was wondering if I could help."

"No one can help!"

"Lizzy! I can tell you are angry about something, would you like to tell me what it is?"

"No, I am not angry! Or at least I wasn't and I do not want to talk about it! Jane... just leave me alone..."

"If that is what you want, Lizzy." Jane turned and quietly left the room.

Elizabeth lay awake most of the night, determined not to feel sorry for herself and regretting her harsh words to Jane. Finally, she gave up, Elizabeth did not want to remain strong, she started crying. She cried into her pillow for fear of waking anyone, it was in this way that she finally drifted off into an uneasy sleep.

Meanwhile, at Netherfield, William spent a second night worrying. Ever since he had seen Wickham standing that close to Elizabeth, he had feared that Wickham would tell all the usual lies, though he was certain Elizabeth would not believe them. However, there was a matter that William prayed that man would not mention. That was by know old news, in London, but to Elizabeth it would be something very different. Something the he had hoped to conceal, forever.

Chapter 21

Posted on Thursday, 6 May 1999

The next morning, Elizabeth awoke feeling horrible, and not looking much better. Her eyes showed signs of her crying and lack of sleep.

She had decided the first thing she was going to do was apologize to Jane. Once she was dressed and Sara had fixed her hair, Elizabeth set out to find her sister.

"Hill, where is Jane?"

"I believe she is in the breakfast room Miss. Lizzy."

"Thank-you." So far Elizabeth found that she was not having too much trouble putting in a cheerful face, what she did not know was that her smile never reached her eyes, as it always had.

"Good-morning, Lizzy," said Mr. Bennet upon her entrance.

"Good-morning, Miss. Elizabeth," said Mr. Collins, smiling widely.

Everyone else acknowledged her presence, then went back to their meals.

After taking her seat she glanced across the table at her sister, she tried to convey in a look to Jane, that she was sorry.

Not long after breakfast, Jane was heading in the direction of the shrubbery, Elizabeth took this opportunity to follow her sister.

"Jane, I want to apologize for my behavior last night. You were only trying to help and I should not have been so mean."

"Oh, Lizzy, there is no need, I realize now that I should have let you have some more time alone. I just don't like seeing you upset."

"Thank-you, Jane. Someday, I may tell you what was bothering me."

The sisters walked around the shrubbery for a while, until Jane returned to the house and Elizabeth continued to wander around the grounds. Alone with her thoughts proved to be a dangerous thing, all she could think about was William and Lady Claudia Ashby... together.

Once more, she resolved to not have such thoughts. With that she went back to the house. Just before she entered the sitting room she heard her mother say,

"Lizzy, she is out walking," Mrs. Bennet paused, "Oh! Lizzy we were just beginning to wonder where you had gotten to. Mr. Bingley has come to invite us all to a ball at Netherfield!"

Elizabeth didn't even hear her mother, she just looked at him. 'How dare he come here!' thought she as William stood up and bowed, he looked like he was wanting to talk with her. Elizabeth would have none of it. Without a second thought she turned on her heel, vigorously closed the door, and went to her room.

She emerged when Mrs. Bennet was bidding her guests good-bye. Elizabeth went to stand by Jane, who was the farthest from William. When she bid him good-bye it was cold and quick, William went away fearing the worst.

"Lizzy!" cried her mother, "How could you be so rude to Mr. Darcy?" Mrs. Bennet lived in hopes that either Mr. Collins or Mr. Darcy would win over her least favorite child.

"Very easily, Mother," replied Elizabeth shortly.

They were interrupted by Hill announcing Mrs. Phillips.

"Oh, Sister!" cried Mrs. Bennet glad that finally a sympathetic listener had arrived.

"How are you, Sister?"

"My nerves are acting up again! Thanks to, Lizzy!" moaned Mrs. Bennet.

Elizabeth and Jane exchanged a look that said they were both thinking now would be a good time to leave and that was just what they did.

"Oh, Jane! If I ever start behaving like Mama, I give you permission to shoot me!"

"Lizzy!" laughed Jane before they heard their aunt say excitedly.

"Sister! I really must say I am glad the girls are not here, for I have some news from Meryton that is dreadful and certainly too much for them!"

"What is it sister?" asked Mrs. Bennet, her eyes gleaming at the prospect of a juicy new piece of gossip.

"I am afraid it concerns, Elizabeth."

On the other side of the door, Jane and Elizabeth glanced at each other before they stepped closer to the door so they could hear.

"What!? About Lizzy! SHE will be the death of me! Is it very bad sister?"

"Indeed! I heard it when I was in the dress shop, Mrs. Snow said her housekeeper had heard it at the butchers, from Mr. Bingley's housekeeper."

"Heard what?" Mrs. Bennet asked impatiently.

"She said that while your daughters were staying at Netherfield, Lizzy engaged in some less than honorable behavior. She said, that the maids had said, that Lizzy had spent the night in Mr. Darcy's bedchamber! The maids said that, Miss Elizabeth's bed had not been slept in, while Mr. Darcy's had been... ah... well."

"Ohhhh!" howled Mrs. Bennet.

"Now, Sister! It must be a scandalous falsehood!"

"Yes! Yes, it MUST be! That girl will be the death of me!" Mrs. Bennet wailed into her handkerchief, "Sister! I need the smelling salts!"

Meanwhile, Jane had turned to look at her sister, who was blushing, deeply. This would not do, for such things to be going around Meryton.

"Lizzy! It isn't true! Whoever would say such a thing?"

"I... I don't know what to say, Jane! Do excuse me!" Elizabeth quickly left the door and ran up to her room, for the second time that day.

She heard her mother yell from below, "This will be all over Meryton! We won't be able to hold our heads high! And Mr. Bingley will certainly not marry, Jane! Oh, Sister! She has spoiled all the other girls chances with this risqué behavior."

Chapter 22

Posted on Sunday, 9 May 1999

Dinner that evening was a quiet affair. Mrs. Bennet was sending her daughter looks that were filled with hostility. Mr. Bennet was far from pleased with the news, for he knew that behind ever rumor there was an element of truth. Jane worried for her sister, Mary was dying to quote some thing about lose of virtue in a female, Kitty and Lydia were giggling at the thought that their sister should do something such as this. Mr. Collins was reconsidering his choice of wife, and it would be none of the Bennet girls!

Elizabeth, felt all their eyes on her, yet she did her best to eat the food on her plate. The fact that gossip, concerning her, was flying all over Meryton only added to her misery.

After they had broken up, Mrs. Bennet retired to her bed chamber with her only friend, the smelling salts, which in her head she lovingly called 'Melly'! Jane, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia along with Mr. Collins retired to the drawing room.

"Elizabeth, come with me," Mr. Bennet told his daughter sternly.

"Yes, Papa."

Wordlessly, Mr. Bennet led Elizabeth, from the Dining Room, to the Library. When they were both seated, be began,

"Elizabeth, would I be right in assuming you know the rumor that is going around concerning you and Mr. Darcy?"

Elizabeth nodded. Her mother had given her an earful. Mrs. Bennet preferred the phrase 'a piece of her mind', not a wise action since Mrs. Bennet did not have much to spare.

"Well, I am not going to beat around the bush. Is it true?"

Elizabeth didn't want to lie to her father, but her situation as it was, left her no choice, "No, it is not true."

Mr. Bennet sighed in relief, then asked, "Did Mr. Darcy ever kiss you or behave indecently?"

"He was always a perfect gentleman, father," whispered she, not really trusting her voice.

Taking a deep breath before he began his next sentence, Mr. Bennet said, rather firmly, "You shall attend the Netherfield ball, next Tuesday, like nothing has happened. Should Mr. Darcy ask you to dance, accept him. Since you are innocent of all these charges, you have nothing to hide and nothing to be ashamed of. Is this understood?"

"Yes, Papa," said Elizabeth, secretly she was revolted by the very idea of dancing with William, but what could she do?

"Good. You may go."

Elizabeth did as she was told. She hoped she had been able to convince him, Elizabeth was not a good liar.

Mr. Bennet, suspected that Elizabeth was not telling the entire truth. Poor, Mr. Bennet could have been knocked over with a feather, had he known the whole truth.

Chapter 23A

Tuesday arrived and with it the Netherfield ball. Since that day, all the other days saw more rain and more gloomy clouds, which suited Elizabeth's mood perfectly. The weather made it impossible to go anywhere. Therefore, the youngest Miss. Bennets had not seen anything of Meryton, or the officers, or their Aunt Phillips for sometime. It never crossed their minds that they would not have been allowed to go.

The gossip flying around Meryton was getting worse, and as it happens with gossip the tales were becoming even more exaggerated. Mrs. Long and her good friends would sit for a good hour in their respective parlors wondering at many endless possibilities. They were welcoming the Netherfield ball with a great deal of excitement, hoping to prove one or more of their theories concerning the couple.

"Lizzy!" cried Lydia running into her sister's bedchamber, "What do you say? Kitty, says not but I think it becomes me rather well," Lydia held up a dress for her sister's approval.

"I wonder that you ask me!" Elizabeth said in an exasperated voice, she was using that tone very often these days.

"You look very nice."

"Thank-you," it was Elizabeth intention to look as nice as possible and then torment William all... but it would do not good to think such thoughts.

"Kitty and I are very grateful to you, Lizzy!"

"What for?" asked Elizabeth scowling.

Luckily, Lydia did have the sense to whisper her next words out of the hearing of Sara, "Why, Lizzy, you have saved us from dancing with Mr. Collins! He would not dance with one of the 'tainted' Bennet Sisters, now!"

"OUT!" Elizabeth ordered her sister.

"I was just saying..."

"Yes! I know very well what you were saying! How many times do I have to say it is not true?"

"What is all this noise?" cried Mrs. Bennet popping her head into the room.

"It is nothing!"

"Don't you take that tone of voice with me, Elizabeth Bennet!"

Elizabeth just glared at her mother and sat down in a huff at her dressing table.

Chapter 23B

On the carriage ride to Netherfield, there was hardly a word spoken. Mrs. Bennet was still in shock, mind you she was not speechless, over Elizabeth's behavior. Mr. Bennet and Jane were worried, about this change in Elizabeth. The others didn't care, Kitty and Lydia only found it amusing to see just how much Elizabeth was trying their parents patience. Mr. Collins was hoping to meet a woman who could become Mrs. Collins.

When they stopped in front of Netherfield, Elizabeth had the misfortune to look up and see William watching her from one of the windows. She pretended not to noticed him, Elizabeth could not have know what fear and sadness she was causing William by ignoring him.

As they were being welcomed by Mr. Bingley, Miss. Bingley, and the Hursts, all Elizabeth wanted to do was scratch Miss. Bingley's eyes out with those ridiculous feathers. The insincerity of their greetings, excluding Mr. Bingley, was enough to make Elizabeth even more determined to detest this evening.

Elizabeth observed that Mr. Wickham was absent from the ball, this discovery did not improve her mood, for she had hoped to dance with him. She was startled out of her thoughts by Mr. Bingley coming up to her, with Jane, and saying,

"Miss. Bennet," as he offered her his arm.

She accepted, but remained alert for any signs of William, she was going to avoid him at all costs. The three of them made their way into the Ballroom, where Elizabeth discreetly glanced around, looking for William. She realized that Denny was approaching them, and while Jane and Mr. Bingley left, Denny said,

"Miss. Bennet, I must say you look very lovely this evening."

"Thank-you."

"I am asked to convey my friend Wickham's most particular regrets, that he was unable to attend this ball, he had a matter of business to see to in town."

Before Elizabeth could reply, Lydia came rushing up.

"Denny!" cried Lydia, "I hope you have come prepared to dance with us this evening."

After, some annoying comments from another one of the officers, Elizabeth made her way over to Charlotte.

'Thankfully, I can talk with Charlotte and escape, William,' or so she thought.

"I see Mr. Bingley still continues his attentions to Jane," said Charlotte.

"Indeed, I hope that it will end happily. Even when one marries for love, there is little happiness."

"Lizzy! You have certainly changed you opinion!" cried Charlotte quite shocked at the sudden change in her friend.

"I think I have changed my opinion, or I have just had my eyes opened."

"Oh."

The two friends stood watching the dance, neither really knowing what to say, they were spared the trouble by a man stepping toward Elizabeth.s

Chapter 23C

Posted on Tuesday, 11 May 1999

"Miss. Bennet. If you are not otherwise engaged, would you give the me the pleasure of the dancing the next with me?" William asked.

"Why I... Had not... Yes, I will dance with you," said she quickly, once she remember her father's words.

After, William had bowed and turned away, Elizabeth turned toward Charlotte and said angrily,

"Why do I have to dance with him!" She knew very well, she had promised her father that she would, but Mr. Bennet may have changed his mind, had he known what all the old biddies were now thinking about his favorite daughter.

As she waited for the dance to start, a thought crossed Elizabeth mind. 'What if William doesn't know about the rumors going around Meryton?' From what she knew of him, had he known, he would not have asked her to dance, this offered her some comfort, until she wondered if he was embarrassing her on purpose. After all she now knew he was not such a gentleman as she had once believed, this was a possibility!

William came forward to claim Elizabeth's hand, and they joined the set. The music started and yet there was no conversation between them. They danced for a while before William said in a calm voice, though he did not feel very clam.

"I believe we must have some conversation Miss. Bennet... A very little will suffice," William felt horrible as he saw not the slightest hint of amusement cross her face, for she had said practically the same thing to him when they had danced at the ball the Burnley's had given, four years ago.

She said nothing, but merely turned away from him in the dance, when he took her hand again he said,

"You should say something about the dance perhaps, I could remark on the number of couples."

Once more Elizabeth said nothing.

"Do you find it amusing to carry on a conversation with yourself?" asked Elizabeth acidly.

"She speaks!" he cried sarcastically, before regretting it. If Elizabeth was already angry with him, it would not do to make her even more upset.

They went down the dance without saying anything else to one another, finally William asked, quietly,

"Have I done something to offend you?"

"Nothing at all, Sir," replied Elizabeth coldly.

As the dance required, they now stopped. It was at this moment that Sir William Lucas choose to talk to them.

"Indeed, Sir! I must congratulate you, such superior dancing is rarely to be seen! Allow me to say, however, that your fair partner does not disgrace you and that I hope to have this pleasure often repeated, especially when a certain desirable event takes place, eh Miss Lizzy!" he indicated Jane and Bingley, "What congratulations will then flow in! But let me not detain you any longer, Sir, from your bewitching partner."

They once more continued on in silence until, William turned and asked,

"Of what were we speaking?"

"We were speaking of nothing, Sir."

"How often do you walk into Meryton?" asked he, once more, trying to get her to talk pleasantly with him.

"Quite often. When you met us the other day, we had just been forming a new acquaintance."

William would have been happy to know that she was now speaking to him, had he not known who she was referring to, "Mr. Wickham has the happy manners which enable him to make friends, whether he is equally capable of keeping them is less certain." William hoped he had made his point clear.

Soon after, the dance ended. William lead Elizabeth off the floor and that was that, he barely noticed the people looking, but he did see Mr. Bennet carefully scrutinizing him.

William stalked around the room for some time, trying to get Elizabeth off of his mind.

'She must know something!'

He watched in torment as she started flirting with one of the officers, something told him she was doing that deliberately. There was nothing he wanted more than to take her aside and sort out the misunderstanding, which, unbeknownst to him they had had.

'Alright! There was that day at Netherfield! And that was my fault!

Turning his attention from Elizabeth, William watched Jane and Bingley. Something was not quite right in his opinion. While he was trying to figure out just what was not right between his sister-in-law and Charles, he saw Elizabeth take to the floor with one of the tedious officers. This proved to much for him,

'Two can play at this game!' he thought.

He looked around for any suitable partner, his eyes came to rest on Bridget Howard. Without a second thought he approached her and asked her, most charmingly, to dance. Although, Miss. Howard was a good dancer and impressive conversationalist, William could not keep his mind from dwelling on what was bothering Elizabeth. As the next dance started he saw that Miss. Lydia was, for once, without a partner. Maybe, she could enlighten him as to what was bothering her sister.

"Do you like dancing Mr. Darcy?" asked she distractedly, looking longingly at a red coat.

"I enjoy it," he replied, devising a plan to get this young lady to talk about her sister.

"Harumph," he heard Lydia mutter.

"Are you well, Miss. Bennet?"

"Oh! I'm fine. I just don't see why she need be in a snit, just because I'm dancing with you! Especially, after she denies all the rumors!"

"Who? And what rumors?"

"You mean you haven't heard!" cried Lydia with a glance at Elizabeth.

'So, it is Elizabeth you are talking about!' thought William. He asked,

"What have I not heard?"

"The rumors going around about you and Lizzy!"

William nearly missed a step in the dance, "Ah, Miss. Bennet. What would be the nature of these rumors?"

Lydia had the sense to be embarrassed by this question, she was not so sure how she should answer, "Well... ah... It would seem... um... They are not of a proper nature, Sir."

William was by now really worried. Does Elizabeth think that I started these rumors? Is that why she is angry at me?

"Thank-you, for telling me, Miss. Bennet," said William woodenly.

As the dance ended William, escorted Lydia back to her seat before turning and heading in the direction of the Library. He needed to be alone, since it was to cold outside he really had no other alternative.

Elizabeth had been watching him closely, she watched jealously as he danced with Bridget and then with anger as he asked Lydia to dance. She was sure her sister's tongue was not going to help matters.

She had been, for sometime, toying with the idea if following William and asking him to explain Wickham's information.

'Knowing him! He would deny everything! But something has to be done! I need to know once and for all!' With that she set off in the direction she had seen him go.

As she opened the door to the Library, the sight that greeted her gave her all the needed proof. There was William kissing Bridget Howard!

Elizabeth turned away and ran out of the room. Fighting the tears that threatened to spill from her eyes, she stole along the edge of the Ballroom, hoping she could hide herself away from everyone. She took a seat in the corner, not far from the door, this was where Jane found her, not ten minutes later.

Jane noticed, that her sister was frightfully pale.

"Lizzy? Are you ill?"

"I'm well," whispered Elizabeth.

"You look very pale, Lizzy. Do you want something to drink?"

"No... I... I just want to go home!"

"We can leave now..."

"No, Jane. I don't want to ruin everyone else's enjoyment. We haven't even dined yet."

"That is no matter! If you are ill, it would be better for us to return home."

Elizabeth was about to say she would stay, when she saw William enter the room.

"Jane, I believe we should go."

Not long after, the whole party set off back to Longbourn.

Jane and Mr. Bennet were truly worried about Lizzy. Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins were sorry to have missed their dinner. Kitty and Lydia hated having to part with the officers so soon, and Mary was disappointed to have missed playing for the company.

Chapter 24

Posted on Saturday, 15 May 1999

Elizabeth could not sleep that night. Whenever she closed her eyes she saw William and Bridget kissing. Then she just lay awake, thinking of Mr. Wickham's words. With a defeated sigh she rolled over for the seventh time in the last five minutes, once more she closed her eyes. As she envisioned William holding 'that' Lady Claudia, kissing her and saying things to Lady Claudia that Elizabeth had thought were meant for her, and her alone!

'Why do I have to have such a vivid imagination!?' she thought.

Rolling over once more, she stared at the dying flames of the fire. Another image flashed into her mind, an image that had once brought her such joy. The memory of her and William making love at Netherfield, even now, she blushed at the remembrance. She groaned quietly as she allowed her mind to dwell on all of the hopes that were now gone.

The following morning saw Jane entering her sister's bedchamber. It was not like Lizzy to sleep in.

"Lizzy. It's gone 10!"

"Jane, I just want to stay here," cried Elizabeth ducking under the blankets as her sister opened the curtains.

"Without breakfast?"

"I'll just starve," Elizabeth muttered.

Jane sat down on the edge of the bed and pulled the blankets away from her sister, "Deja vu!'"

"What?"

"This just reminds me of trying to get you to wake up when you were younger."

"Hmmm."

"Lizzy, it is a beautiful day!"

"Good for it," said Elizabeth sarcastically.

Jane realized that this was getting no where, she was determined not to pry, however, much she was tempted. She knew prying would not get her anywhere with her stubborn sister.

Not long after, Elizabeth finally convinced herself to face the day. After a small breakfast she went for a walk, hoping it would help her think and give her a chance to sort out the mess that her life was now in. She caught herself smiling at the way William had talked to her when they were dancing, using the conversation that she had once started.

"Argh!" cried Elizabeth. She hated this, she hated having to get him off her mind. There was once a time when she could easily spend and hour just thinking about him. Now two minutes of dwelling on past memories almost made her cry.

When, Elizabeth returned from her walk, she was informed, by her mother that Mr. Collins had gone to dine with the Lucas's.

"Lizzy! How could you? Last night you wanted to leave the ball early missing your chance of dancing once more with Mr. Darcy! And keeping Jane and Mr. Bingley away from each other. Now, Mr. Collins has left without making an offer of marriage to you or any of them! Do you not realize that you are spoiling all of your own chances as well as your sisters'! In more than one way as well! Why... The only reason that Mr. Bingley likely danced with Jane, and Mr. Darcy danced with you, was because they didn't now the gossip that is going around!"

"Yes! I'm sure that is the case Mama!" cried Elizabeth.

The week passed with nothing out of the ordinary. Mrs. Bennet constantly criticized Elizabeth, about anything that came to mind, especially about 'driving Mr. Collins away with your bad behavior!' Elizabeth was to wrapped up in her own troubles to notice her mother's hurtful words or, that Mr. Collins hardly spent the day with them.

Jane and Elizabeth had been sitting in the drawing room concentrating on some needlework, when they heard Lydia's voice yelling from outside,

"Jane! Lizzy!"

Lydia and Kitty rushed up to their sisters, who had come to meet them, "What do you think?" gasped Lydia, "Mr. Collins has made and offer of marriage to Charlotte Lucas!"

"And she has accepted him!" cried Kitty.

"Charlotte! Engaged to Mr. Collins! Impossible!" said Elizabeth, in a shocked tone of voice.

It was not long before Elizabeth set out to Lucas Lodge, thankfully she met no one on the way. She was beginning to fear all these people, for there were many who believed the gossip.

When she arrived at Lucas Lodge, Elizabeth was almost afraid that they would shun her. Lady Lucas, did not look on 'such behavior' with a friendly eye. However, without any embarrassment she was shown into the drawing room, where Charlotte was.

"Lizzy, how pleasant."

"Indeed," muttered Elizabeth, wondering how to approach the subject.

"No doubt you have heard that I am to be married," said Charlotte.

Elizabeth raised her eyes in shock, not knowing how to hide her embarrassment at being found out.

"I see that you are surprised."

"I confess I was. But if Mr. Collins has been so fortunate as to secure your affections, I'm delighted for you, both."

Charlotte looked knowingly at her friend, "I see what your feeling... I'm not romantic, you know. I never was! I ask only a comfortable home and considering Mr. Collins's situation, I think I will be as happy as any can boast upon entering the marriage state."

Elizabeth said nothing. If truth be told, Charlotte's words made her think of her own marriage, which was in a way similar to her friends. A marriage of convenience. She stayed only long enough to hear her cousin congratulate himself on his happy situation. Elizabeth could not stand anymore.

"Jane! It was the most ridiculous spectacle! She knows she is marrying on of the stupidest men in England!"

"Lizzy. Our cousin, is not the cleverest of men, perhaps, but he is respectable. He is not vicious. It is an eligible match."

"Very eligible! You would never marry to secure your own comfort!"

"But, Lizzy, not everyone is the same."

Elizabeth refused to answer, she just sat, fuming. It was at that moment that, Hill came in the room.

"A letter came just now from Netherfield, Ma'am," she said as she curtsied and gave the letter to Jane.

"Thank-you," Jane answered, blushing. A moment later she said, "It is from Caroline Bingley... She writes: 'that the whole party will have, by now, left Netherfield and without any intention of coming back again.'"

Elizabeth looked up from her scowling at the carpet to her sisters shocked and sad face. She scarce knew what to think. William was now gone, no doubt because of his quilt... But Mr. Bingley? Elizabeth had been certain that he cared for Jane and that he should go without proposing seemed very odd.

"What else does she say?"

"I will read it to you. 'When my brother left us yesterday, he imagined that the business that took him to town might be concluded in a few days, but we are certain that this can not be so, we are convinced that when Charles gets to town he will be in no hurry to leave it. Mr. Darcy is anxious to see his sister and to confess the truth, we are scarcely less eager to see her again. She inspires such a great affection in Louisa and myself, this is heightened into something more from the hope we dare to entertain of her being hereafter our sister. Am I wrong dearest Jane to indulge in the hope that will secure the happiness of so many?'"

"Is it not clear enough? She means, most kindly to put me on my guard, for she is convinced of her brothers indifference to me. Can there be any other opinion on the subject?"

"Yes, there can! Miss. Bingley sees that her brother is in love with you and she wants him to marry Georgi... Miss. Darcy! She follows him to town in the hopes of keeping him there, while trying to persuade you that he does not care about you."

Jane shook her head.

"Indeed, Jane, you ought to believe me. No one that has seen you together can doubt his affection."

"I can not believe Caroline capable of willful deceit."

"Jane..." Elizabeth stopped, she knew Jane's nature would not allow for anyone to be truly bad. Therefore, she stopped trying to convince her sister, Elizabeth hoped that Jane would see the truth, eventually.

Chapter 25

The next week passed and with it came a letter for Jane from Caroline Bingley. It became clear that they would not be returning to Netherfield anytime soon. This news sent Mrs. Bennet into a further rage.

"You see, Lizzy! What you have done! You have driven Mr. Darcy away, and with him Mr. Bingley! How could you harm your sister so? Only look at how poor, Jane, suffers! And to think that Charlotte Lucas will be mistress of this house... It is all your fault Elizabeth!"

"Mama! I am very well aware that you are angry with me. Trust me, I do not need to be reminded daily."

Elizabeth then left the room.

This was often the way days passed at Longbourn. It was during this time that the only comfort Elizabeth had was the knowledge that the Gardiners would be coming soon, to spend Christmas with them. And it was in this manner that another week passed and the preparations for the Gardiners visit were now underway.

Twice, since the Netherfield party had left, did Mr. Wickham, along with Denny and Sanderson come to tea at Longbourn. Seeing, Mr. Wickham brought Elizabeth no joy, for she always remembered his words... 'He has a mistress, Miss. Bennet.' That would then lead her to remember seeing William and Bridget together at the Netherfield.

On the day that the Gardiners were to arrive, Elizabeth woke from a deep sleep. She found it rather odd that she could sleep so well when her mind was in such turmoil. As she made to get out of bed a feeling of nausea overwhelmed her and she immediately lay back down, curling herself into a tight ball. This queasiness had been happening every morning for the last week, she thought it was very strange.

"Lizzy! My Lord girl! You were always awake early, now what has happened to you," screeched Mrs. Bennet, "Hurry down, breakfast is waiting!" With that Mrs. Bennet left her daughter's room.

The mere thought of food nearly made Elizabeth lose control of her already uneasy stomach. With a determined effort, Elizabeth dragged herself out of bed and started dressing. She glanced at her face in the mirror, she was very pale.

'What is wrong with me!?' she thought.

"Are you ill, Lizzy?" asked Jane, when she saw her sister.

"I am fine, Jane," Elizabeth said clenching her jaw.

Instead of eating any of the food on the table, Elizabeth sat for a minute regarding it with a look of utter disgust.

"Are you not eating this morning, Elizabeth?"

"Why is everyone asking me questions?" snapped Elizabeth, "I will eat when I am ready! Right now, I just want some water."

Angrily grabbing the glass that was before her, Elizabeth excused herself and left the room. Going up to her room, she sat down on the bed, putting the glass on the bedside table. It wasn't long before Elizabeth had fallen asleep, again.

Meanwhile, in the Breakfast Room, everyone had stopped eating and talking. All of them were in shock over Lizzy's behavior, Mrs. Bennet was the first to recover,

"The insolence of that girl! It is because you favor her so very much Mr. Bennet! She thinks she can get away with anything!"

"Perhaps..." started Jane.

"Yes, Jane," urged Mr. Bennet, ignoring his wife's tirade.

"Did you ever think that she might love Mr. Darcy? Maybe she is sad because he has left."

"In love with, Mr. Darcy!" cried Mrs. Bennet.

"Why is that so hard to believe?" asked Jane, "They got along very well, when he was here."

"Well, she can be in love with him, if she wants, but his absence is no excuse for her behavior."

"Mrs. Bennet..." he was interrupted by Hill opening the door.

"Mr. Howard to see you, Sir."

"Howard, what do we owe the pleasure?"

"I am most sorry to have disturbed your meal, but I need to speak with you on a matter of some urgency. I need to talk with you alone, Bennet."

"Of course. Shall we go to the Library?"

Elizabeth woke with a start, once more her stomach felt uneasy, though it was not as bad as it had been. A little time later, she made her way downstairs, just as she was about to go to the drawing room she heard a voice she recognized to be that of Mr. Howard's.

"I must insist on knowing his whereabouts! And I thought that with your eldest daughter being a friend of Miss. Bingley, she may be able to find out, where he is."

"Why should you want to know where Mr. Darcy is? If you do not mind my asking."

Elizabeth crept up to the door.

"I'll tell you why! My daughter, Bridget is with child and the father is..."

"Mr. Darcy."

"Exactly, I must find the scoundrel and make him marry her!"

On the other side of the door, Elizabeth was frantically working out something. Then all became clear to her. She too, was expecting a child.

Chapter 26

Posted on Wednesday, 19 May 1999

Elizabeth, turned from the door in a daze and slowly made the way back to her bedchamber. She was so surprised and frightened.

'Bridget is having a baby! I'm having a baby! Oh! How could he?'

She walked to the window seat and sat down. Curling herself up she started crying. Everything was going wrong, there was no one she could turn to. No one to help her. No one to comfort her. All she wanted was William to come back to her, to tell her that Wickham had heard wrong, that it was someone else who had kissed Bridget, that Bridget's baby was not his, that all would be well... However, she knew it was a hopeless dream.

She must have cried for a half an hour, letting all the anger, sadness, and fear that she had been holding, out. Elizabeth finally dried her eyes. She remained at the window for some time. A hour passed. Elizabeth spent that time looking, unseeing out the window at the surrounding countryside.

Some hours later, five to be exact, Elizabeth woke when she heard the door to her room open. Jane entered quietly,

"Lizzy," she began, "Aunt and Uncle Gardiner have arrived."

"I'll be down in a minute, Jane," Elizabeth said still looking out the window.

"There is no need, Lizzy!" Mrs. Gardiner's cheerful voice called, "I have come to see you, but you should come and greet your uncle."

"Aunt." Elizabeth cheered slightly, as she rose to embrace her favorite aunt and Jane quietly left the room.

"How have you been?"

"Well."

"Your mother said you feeling ill this morning, I hope you have recovered."

"I..."

"Lizzy! Sister! We must get ready, we are leaving for the Phillips' in half and hour!" Mrs. Bennet shouted from below.

"How long have you been here?"

"Two hours, dear. I came and looked in on you, but as you were sleeping, I did not disturb you. Jane and I only came up just know, since we will be going soon."

"Oh! I do not want to go out tonight, I just want to stay home," complained Elizabeth putting a hand to her now throbbing head.

"You still don't feel well. Perhaps we should send for the doctor."

"NO!" Elizabeth said forcefully, she knew the doctor would just confirm what she already knew was wrong. Then her parents would find out...

"Lizzy, we won't send for the doctor if you do not want us to. I know, why don't we both stay home. I really don't feel like going either."

"That would be pleasant."

"Well, then, I will go tell, Fanny. Do you want to come down and see your uncle?'

"Yes."

The two of them went downstairs and before long they were seeing everyone else off.

"Aunt," Elizabeth began once they were seated comfortably in the drawing room, "Have you ever heard of a Lady Claudia Ashby?"

"Yes..." replied Mrs. Gardiner cautiously.

"What sort of person is she? Honorable?"

"She is rumored, by some, to be slightly less than honorable."

"Tell me, does she have a lover?"

"Lizzy! What a question!"

"Please... I need to know! Does she or doesn't she?"

"Yes. It is a well known fact in town, no one knows who, but some say he is a rich gentleman from Derbyshire... Now, tell me all of the latest gossip in Meryton!" she tried to change the subject.

Elizabeth's teacup clattered dangerously on the saucer.

"Oh, Lizzy! I am sorry... How thoughtless of me!"

"You know!"

Sighing, Mrs. Gardiner, answered, "You mother told me. She also told me that she suspects you to be in love with, Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth turned away from her aunt, but Mrs. Gardiner already saw the tears in her niece's eyes.

"Elizabeth, don't cry. What they are saying about you is a scandalous falsehood, I should not have said anything! Come you should be in bed."

Gently and discreetly, Mrs. Gardiner took Elizabeth to her room.

"Now, tell me," directed Mrs. Gardiner as she lead her niece to the bed, "Do you love him?"

"I... *sniffle*... did... Maybe a part... *hiccup*... of me still does..."

Mrs. Gardiner waited for Elizabeth to calm herself before she asked any more questions.

"Oh, aunt! I need to tell someone, but I can't..." Elizabeth cried into her pillow.

"Tell, someone what?"

Sitting up, Elizabeth looked at her aunt, "Promise me, you will not tell a soul!"

"Yes, but whatever you tell me, it can not me so very bad."

"It can. Aunt... I'm... ah... I'm... with child."

"What!" exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner jumping up, "Lizzy! I would have thought you had better sense... The rumors are true, then! Mr. Darcy is the father of the child... Lizzy, you must tell him... He must be made to marry you!"

Mrs. Gardiner was very surprised by Elizabeth laughing bitterly.

"It is too late."

"Too late?"

"Aunt, I am not so bad as you think," stated a surprisingly calm Elizabeth, "I am not having this child out of wedlock... Let me continue... Aunt, Mr. Darcy is my husband. We have been married for four years."

"I... don't... I don't see how..."

"I will explain. When I was sixteen, you may remember, I went to Scotland to visit my good friend Harriet and her husband. Well, John's friend, a Mr. Darcy was also staying with them. I fell in love with William and I consented to an elopement. You may wonder why we went to the trouble of concealing it, but it was absolutely necessary. His aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, had been in charge of his fortune, since his father's death. She was sure to disapprove of our marriage, should she have found out she could have disinherited him. We have been corresponding over the last four years, through our friends. I, however, did not know that he was to come to Meryton... Aunt, you can imagine the rest of the story."

"I see."

"Aunt?"

"You must forgive me, Lizzy. I am just so shocked by your news. You will tell him though, about the baby?"

"No."

"Why not? He has a right to know."

Elizabeth then went on to explain about Lady Claudia Ashby and Bridget Howard. She told her aunt everything she knew.

"I should not have told you about Lady Ashby!"

"Aunt, that is not what concerns me. What will happen to me if Will... if he is forced to marry Bridget!"

"Speaking plainly, we can only hope that you will not be found out. I know he will be committing bigamy, but as I see it nothing else can be done."

"True," Elizabeth said quietly.

"Lizzy, what are you going to do about the baby?"

Chapter 27

Posted on Thursday, 20 May 1999

"I was hoping you would help me decide what to do."

"Let me think."

Mrs. Gardiner paced for a while, thinking of what could be done. She had many ideas, but it seemed impossible that her stubborn niece would agree to any of them. Finally, she hit on one that seemed at least, reasonable.

"Lizzy, the only thing I can think that you might agree to means letting your uncle in on this secret."

"What is the plan first of all?"

"The plan is this: When my father died he left me a small cottage in Scotland. It is a very secluded place... What if your uncle and I take you there and you can have the baby, without anyone being any wiser?"

"It sounds fine, but what happens after the child is born?"

"Just this. What if, your uncle and I announce in February or so that I am having another baby. Then as soon as Jane arrives back from her visit with us we come pick you up and take you to Scotland with us, hopefully your parents will consent. Then, when you have had the baby and we return to England, your uncle and I take care of the baby, until you have had time to decide what to do."

"You mean raise my child as your own."

"I can see no other way, Lizzy."

"I suppose you are right. Are you certain that uncle will help?"

"I think he will, when all circumstances are explained."

"Then, that is what we shall do."

"Now, we must think of a story to tell, anyone who should be nosy in Scotland. This place is secluded, but not that secluded."

"Would saying that my husband is away in the regiment and that he wanted me to be as comfortable as possible when our child was born, sound plausible?"

"Yes, but what are we going to be to you?"

"You could still me my aunt and uncle, that way there would be no mistakes, if I was trying to remember to address you as something else and forget."

"That will work, we can work out the particulars later. Now, what else?"

"What do we do when I start getting... ah... bigger?"

"Now, Lizzy. When is the baby due?"

"July, I think."

"We won't be able to take you to Scotland, until April. Thank-God, for these fashions! They hide a multitude of sins! What time is it?"

"6:00. Why?"

"They will probably get back around 11:00. That will give us plenty of time to make adjustments to the dresses you will be wearing."

The two of them got to work immediately, guessing, as best they could, how much Elizabeth would have grown by that time. They had made all the necessary adjustments and Elizabeth was already in bed and asleep, by the time the rest of the Bennets and Mr. Gardiner arrived home.

The following day, Mrs. Gardiner informed her husband of everything. He was a tad skeptical at first, but eventually he came around to their way of thinking.

They were also told by Mrs. Bennet, that Charlotte Lucas had invited Elizabeth to come and visit her in March, along with Sir William and Maria. Mrs. Bennet said she had accepted on her daughter's behalf.

This was caused some worry for the Gardiners and Elizabeth, since she would be showing then. One thing that Elizabeth decided to keep from the Gardiners, was the fact the March-April was usually the time her husband and his cousin paid a visit to their aunt.

Christmas came and went. The news that Bridget was marrying a young man named Mr. Clement came as well, Elizabeth wondered what had happened, perhaps, William had paid this man to marry, Bridget. The thought that the baby wasn't his, never crossed her mind. The thought that, someone else had only just started his revenge never occurred to her, either.

Jane returned to London with the Gardiners. Elizabeth received a letter from her sister that did anything but lift her own spirits, for it detailed how Mr. Bingley seemed to no longer care for Jane, it also mentioned William, that only increased her misery.

In February, as planned, the Gardiners announced that another baby was on the way. Elizabeth was happy that all seemed to be going it should. This happiness was disturbed when she received a letter from William. He wanted to know why he had heard nothing from her and why she had been so distant at Netherfield. She didn't write back, all she did was set the letter on fire.

Elizabeth began to wear the dresses that had been altered. She began to take care how she sat, for if she sat a certain way, her condition was fairly obvious. She dare not risk her mother finding out.

Then before Elizabeth knew it, spring had arrived and she was preparing for her journey into Kent. She only hoped that all would be well with the baby, on the way.

Chapter 28

Posted on Friday, 21 May 1999

"Maria, all that land to the left of us belongs to Rosings Park," Sir William told his daughter.

"All of it! Lady Catherine must be very rich, indeed!"

"I believe so! I believe so! Your sister has made a most fortunate alliance" Sir William caught Elizabeth's eye, he seemed embarrassed by his words, "Well... ah... I believe the next turn takes us on to Hunsford."

When they drew up in front of the Parsonage and had left the carriage, Mr. Collins came forth saying in his slimy voice,

"Sir William! Maria! Cousin Elizabeth! Allow me to welcome you to my humble abode."

He went on to talk with Sir William and Maria, while Elizabeth stepped forward to greet her friend.

"I am happy to see you, Elizabeth."

"And I you."

Elizabeth was very fatigued by the journey, and would have liked nothing better than to rest, however, Mr. Collins insisted on giving a tour of his 'humble abode'. He rambled on about his staircase and such, if he said, 'for her Ladyship has several' one more time, Elizabeth would not be responsible for her actions.

When, Mr. Collins showed Elizabeth to her bedchamber, he did so with such arrogance. It truly annoyed her, then it became clear. He still believed the rumors that had been going around Meryton during his stay, she was a disgrace to have in his house!

Afterwards, while Mr. Collins showed Sir William and Maria his garden, Charlotte gave her friend a much nicer welcome to the house. Charlotte described in a discreet way how she was able to avoid her husband.

Two days later saw them on their way to dine at Rosings. As they walked there Elizabeth straightened her dress, Mr. Collins took this to mean she was uneasy about meeting his fine patroness, and so he said,

"Do not make yourself uneasy, cousin, about your apparel. Lady Catherine is far from requiring that elegance of dress in us which becomes herself and her daughter. Lady Catherine will not think the worse of you for being simply dressed. She likes to have the distinction of rank preserved."

"Thank-you, Mr. Collins. That puts me at ease," she had really been making sure her dress hid what is was supposed to.

Once the introductions had been made, Lady Catherine immediately started asking about Charlotte's domestic concerns. She began to dispense advice, of which Mr. Collins gave every assurance of following. Elisabeth watched her discreetly, she could hardly believe what an arrogant woman she was,

'No wonder she would not have approved... I will not think that!' Elizabeth thought.

Unfortunately, it was not long before she turned her attention to Elizabeth.

'Were I not so well mannered... I would advise her to lose some weight!' thought Lady Catherine, while she said out loud,

"Your friend appears to be a very pretty, genteel sort of girl, Mrs. Collins. Her father's estate is entailed on Mr. Collins, I understand."

"Yes, indeed, it is, and I am..." began Mr. Collins before Lady Catherine interrupted him.

"Pray, how many sisters do you have?"

"I am the second of five."

"And are any of your younger sisters out?"

"Yes, Ma'am, all."

"All! What, all five out at once. The younger ones out before the older are married. Your youngest sisters must be very young."

"Yes, my youngest is not sixteen. Perhaps she is full young to be out much in company, but really ma'am, I think it would be very hard upon younger sisters that they do not have their share of society or amusement because their older sisters do not have the means of inclination to marry early."

"Upon my word! You give your opinion very decidedly for so young a person. Pray, what is your age?"

"With three younger sisters grown up, your ladyship can hardly expect me to own it."

That was mainly how the evening passed and it was not long before the party started back to the Parsonage in one of her ladyship's several carriages.

Sir William stayed only a week at Hunsford, just long enough to be assured of his daughters good fortune. With, Sir William gone, they saw more of Mr. Collins, not something that brought joy to Elizabeth, for she was already on edge with the news that Lady Catherine's nephews were to arrive.

When the news of their arrival came, care of Mr. Collins, he immediately departed to greet them. Half an hour later, Charlotte came running into the sitting room where Maria and Elizabeth sat with their needlework.

"Lizzy! I must thank-you for this honor!"

"What honor?"

"Mr. Collins is just now arriving and he has with him Mr. Darcy and another gentlemen! Indeed, Lizzy, Mr. Darcy would not have come so soon to wait upon me!"

Elizabeth paled. She could hardly believe the audacity of that man.

Chapter 29

Posted on Saturday, 22 May 1999

Colonel Fitzwilliam entered the sitting room first followed by Mr. Collins and William. The Colonel was introduced to Elizabeth and she greeted him warmly. When William bowed to her, Elizabeth's manner changed noticeably. She curtsied stiffly (trying to hide her condition) and talked to him in a tone bordering on uncivil.

"I am very pleased to meet you at last, Miss. Bennet," began Colonel Fitzwilliam.

"At last, Sir?"

"Yes, I have heard much of you and none of the praise has been exaggerated."

"Oh, I can well believe that! Mr. Darcy is my severest critic!" She took this opportunity to see that William was watching her from across the room and practically ignoring Mr. Collins.

"I understand you play and sing, Miss. Bennet."

"A little and very ill, I would not wish to excite you anticipation."

"I am sure you are too modest, but anything would be very welcome, I assure you."

Elizabeth smiled. Once more she realized that William's eyes were on her and decided to say something of the sort to his cousin.

"Can you tell me why Mr. Darcy keeps staring at me? What do you think offends him?"

They both turned to look at William. He must have taken this for an invitation to join them and he did so.

"I hope your family is in good health."

"They are, indeed. My eldest sister has been in Town these three months have you never happened to see her there?"

"No," he paused and seemed to be searching for the right words, "I have not had that pleasure."

William, looked at Elizabeth a moment before wandering over to the window.

'What is bothering her? She never replied to my letter, perhaps she didn't received it... I do hope she didn't somehow find out about Bridget Howard.'

William heard Elizabeth say to his cousin,

"You see Mr. Darcy and I are not the best of friends."

"I'm very surprised to hear that."

"Why should you be? I always believe in first impression and Mr. Darcy's good opinion once lost is lost forever. So you see, it is a hopeless case, is it not, Colonel Fitzwilliam."

Elizabeth was rewarded by a startled William turning to look at her. It was not long after this that the gentlemen took their leave.

During the next week Colonel Fitzwilliam came everyday to the Parsonage and almost everyday his cousin accompanied him. William would sit and stare at Elizabeth while she talked with his cousin, there was something different about her appearance, but he could not figure out what it was.

On these occasions Elizabeth would ignore William and when she did look at him it was with a cold reserve that he had never seen in her before.

As it happened it was nearly a week before the people from the Parsonage were invited to dine a Rosings. It was clear that they were not Lady Catherine's first choice , for she spent most of the evening talking with William. She praised Georgiana and dropped many, non-discreet, comments about her daughters splendor.

Elizabeth had a secret enjoyment in watching William being tortured by his aunt, yet she did feel a pang of remorse, for if it had not been for him she would not be having a baby. No matter what her feelings were towards her child's father, nothing could diminish the love she had for the baby.

Later in the evening, Colonel Fitzwilliam managed to convince Elizabeth to play for them. Lady Catherine listed to half the song before turning her attention to William, who after a short while left her company and went to the pianoforte.

"You mean to frighten me, Mr. Darcy, by coming in all this state to hear me? But I will not be alarmed, my courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me."

"I know you find great enjoyment in expressing opinions which are not your own."

"You profess to have a great understanding of my character."

"I do nothing of the kind," replied William somewhat bitterly, considering Elizabeth's recent behavior, he could hardly say he knew her character.

Ignoring, William's last remark she turned to the Colonel and said, "Your cousin will teach not to believe a word I say. It is ungenerous of him, is it not?"

"Yes, indeed," cried the Colonel looking at his cousin.

"Impolitic too, for it provokes me to retaliate and say something of his behavior which may shock his relations."

"I am not afraid of you," said William smilingly, after all this was the closest they had come to talking like the old days in quite some time.

"Pray let me hear what you have to accuse him of. I should dearly love to hear how he behaves among others."

"You shall hear then, but prepare yourself for something very bad. The first time I saw Mr. Darcy was at a ball where he danced only four dances though gentlemen were scarce and more than one lady was in want of a partner." Elizabeth related the story from when they had genuinely, first met. It had been at the little Assembly that John and Harriet had taken her to.

"At that time I had not the pleasure of know any of the ladies save my hostess and her three sisters. I... I find myself ill qualified to recommend myself to strangers."

"Shall we ask him why?" Elizabeth addressed the Colonel, "Shall we ask him why a man of sense and education who has lived in the world, should feel 'ill qualified to recommend himself to strangers'?"

"I do not have the talents, which some posses of conversing easily with strangers."

"My fingers do not move over this instrument so well as I should wish, but I have always supposed that to be my own fault because I would not take the trouble of practicing."

"You are perfect right. You have employed you time much better. No one admitted to the privilege of hearing you could think anything wanting. We neither of us perform to strangers."

They were interrupted at that moment by Lady Catherine demanding to know what they were talking about.

The following day Elizabeth was writing a letter to her sister when she heard the doorbell. She assumed it was the Colonel and possibly William, though she hoped it was not the latter.

Standing up and smoothing her dress she waited for the door to open. It was to her great surprise and fear when she realized that it was just William.

After addressing him she said looking out the window, "You find me all alone today, Mr. Darcy. My cousin, Mrs. Collins and Maria have gone into Hunsford village."

"I see. I did not mean to invade you privacy."

'Why is she doing this? Calling me 'Mr. Darcy' instead of William and acting like she wants nothing more than to be out of my company. All I want to hold her and talk with her, we have not seen each other in such a long time!'

When he had taken a seat the sat for a moment, neither of them knowing what to say. Finally, she said,

"How suddenly you all quitted Netherfield last November. Mr. Bingley and his sisters were well, I hope, when you left London."

"Perfectly so, I thank-you."

"I understand that Mr. Bingley does not have much idea of ever returning to Netherfield again."

"It is probable that he will spend little time there in the future."

"If he means to be there but little, it would be better for the neighborhood that he give up the place entirely."

"I should not be surprised if he were to give it up as soon as any eligible purchase offers... Damit! Elizabeth, what is bothering you?"

She looked up at him regarding him coldly for a minute. She was about to reply when Charlotte and Maria entered the room, they were surprised to see Mr. Darcy by himself. William stayed for a few more minutes, then excusing himself, he left, much to the relief of Elizabeth.

Elizabeth remained in the house for the rest of the week and if she did venture out it would be in the company of someone else. One day, a little less than a week later she received a letter from Jane that proved her sister had not written in the best of spirits, the Parsonage was not a place were she could quietly dwell on the letter therefore she was determined to go for a walk, whatever the consequences.

Elizabeth was walking in the park when she looked up the sound of footsteps. She was afraid that it was William but was very much relieved when she realized it was the Colonel.

"Miss. Bennet!"

"Colonel Fitzwilliam! I did not know you ever walked this way."

"I have been making my annual tour of the park, as I do every year. Shall we take this way together?"

"With pleasure."

They walked in silence for a minute or two until Elizabeth asked,

"Do you know Mr. Bingley and his sisters?"

"I know them a little. Their brother is a pleasant gentlemanlike man... He is a great friend of Darcy's."

"Oh! Yes. Mr. Darcy is uncommonly kind to Mr. Bingley and takes a prodigious deal of care of him."

"I believe Darcy does take care of him."

"What is it that you mean?"

"Well, he congratulates himself upon having lately saved Mr. Bingley from the inconvenience of a most imprudent marriage."

"Did Mr. Darcy give his reason for this interference?"

"I understand that their were some strong objections to the lady."

"Why was he to be the judge?" Elizabeth had a very good idea who the lady was.

"You are disposed to call his interference officious?"

"I do not see what right Mr. Darcy had to determine in what manner his friend was to be happy! But," she realized she should not go on in such a manner, "as you say. Perhaps there was little love in the case."

"Perhaps not, but that would lessen the honor of my cousin's triumph very sadly don't you think."

Elizabeth paused, she wanted to be alone so she could think over all that the Colonel had told her. She was called back to reality by Colonel Fitzwilliam saying,

"Miss. Bennet, are you unwell?"

"A sudden headache... Perhaps I've walked to far today."

"Then let us take the shorter way back," answered the Colonel offering her is arm.

Chapter 30

Posted on Sunday, 23 May 1999

When she returned to the Parsonage, Elizabeth saw that the house was in an uproar over the preparations to take tea at Rosings.

"Cousin Elizabeth! You must hurry... We shall be late," cried Mr. Collins once she entered the house.

Ignoring him she said to Charlotte,

"I fear I have a dreadful headache. I must be excused from accompanying you to Rosings."

"Of course, Lizzy," said Charlotte before she continued while helped her husband into his coat, "You must understand, I would willingly stay at home with you and brave Lady Catherine's displeasure..."

"My dear Charlotte I beg you to consider..."

"I shall be quite well. It is only a headache and it will pass more quickly in quiet and solitude," cried Elizabeth eager to be rid of them.

"And I am sure," began Mr. Collins pompously, "that when all the circumstances are fully explained to Lady Catherine, she will not be angry for she has..."

"My dear... The time!" said Charlotte patiently.

Almost before Elizabeth knew it they had left the house, Mr. Collins ranting on about the importance of punctuality, or something like that.

Once Elizabeth was in the sitting room she put a hand on her bulging belly and said "Thank-heaven, it is quiet at last. Right, little one?"

After she had found a comfortable position on the settee, Elizabeth started tormenting herself by rereading all of Jane's letters. She was therefore, somewhat vexed when she heard the doorbell. Elizabeth was even more angry when William came in.

"I hope you are feeling better!" began he in a hurried manner.

"I am, thank-you."

William turned to look at her, "I am not going to waste my time with small talk. I demand to know what you are treating me in this fashion!"

"Where to begin!" remarked Elizabeth.

"So, I have done something to offend you. I was hoping you would tell me what I have done that is so very bad."

"Shall I start with the most recent? How could you ruin, perhaps forever the happiness of my most beloved sister!?"

"I see you are determined to be awkward," William muttered.

"And you seem to be determined to avoid answering the question! I have every reason in the world to think ill of you! You can not deny that you have been the principal means of dividing them from each other!"

When he made no response she asked again,

"Can you deny that you have done it?"

"I have no wish to deny it! I did everything in my power to separate my friend form your sister and I rejoice in my success! Towards him I have been kinder than towards myself... Besides she showed no affection for him!"

Elizabeth pretended not to notice his remark, while she continued, "You should have known by all my letters that it is not in Jane's nature to show her feelings openly. But it is not merely this which has sparked my dislike! How do you defend yourself when I mention your mistress?"

"My mistress!"

"Yes! Lady Claudia Ashby! Did I really mean that much to you, so much, that the moment I am out of your sight you can so easily take a mistress?"

"And where have you heard this?"

"I see you do not deny it! And for your information it is from a very respectable young man, a Mr. Wickham!" cried Elizabeth jumping up to face him.

"Wickham... I should have known! And for your information, I would deny this charge, but you would think I was lying!"

"Nothing new then! For you are a liar!"

"I see you have more to say, madam!"

"Yes! Not only am I carrying your chi... You know very well, that I know about you and Bridget Howard! I saw you kissing her at the Netherfield ball and now she is with child! Even before that, at Lucas Lodge, one evening I came to see you in the garden and when I came up behind you, you said 'Ah, Elizabeth' like you were surprised it was me, as if you had thought it was someone else, perhaps Bridget Howard!" Elizabeth mentally kicked herself for almost letting the truth slip.

"Bridget Howard! Yes! I knew she was pregnant... but I am not the father. What you saw at Netherfield really did happen... only it was she who kissed me! At Lucas Lodge..."

"To my knowledge it takes two to kiss! And if your not the father who is?" Elizabeth interrupted him.

"I see this is getting no where!"

"Really, I hadn't noticed!"

"Anything else you would like to accuse me of? After all, in your mind I have committed adultery... twice!"

"Oh! I do hate you!"

William looked at his wife with anger, then he said bitterly,

"Is this one of those emotional things?"

"Get out!"

"With pleasure!" William strode to the door picking up his hat on the way. He stopped, his hand poised above the door handle, turning to her again he asked in a much quieter tone,

"How long do you think you can hide it?"

"Hide what?" she said sharply.

"The fact that you are carrying my child."

Looking him in the eye she said coldly, "What makes you think it is your child?"

Chapter 31

Posted on Sunday, 30 May 1999

A look of pain and humiliation crossed William's face. Elizabeth saw how much she was hurting him and at that moment she didn't care, in her mind he deserved worse. She had forgotten her momentary slip, where she almost told him she was carrying his child, Elizabeth could not know what William was thinking...

William was trying to hide his pain from her, not wanting to give Elizabeth the satisfaction of seeing what she had accomplished. His mind ran over two statements she had made... 'What makes you think it is your child?' and 'Not only am I carrying your chi...' these statements conflicted, greatly. Had she just said the child wasn't his because she was angry at him, and the other one... Had she been about to say she was carrying his child?

Looking at her one last time he left the room.

As the door slammed behind William, Elizabeth's only coherent thought was, 'Now what?'. She was so shocked at her words that she sat down and cried for half an hour, until she heard the carriage arriving. Not wanting anyone to see her in this state, she rushed up to her room and stayed there.

The following morning Elizabeth awoke still feeling very tired, her headache was worse, for she had spent most of the night crying before finally drifting off into a uneasy sleep.

"You do look pale, Lizzy! Have some breakfast I am sure it will do you good."

"No, thank you, Charlotte," Elizabeth cast a disgusted look in Mr. Collins direction, the man really had no table manners, "I think I have been indoors too long. Fresh air is all I need and the woods around Rosings are so beautiful at this time of year."

With that Elizabeth set out for a walk, she would have liked nothing better than to run, but she did not run anymore, for fear it might injure the baby. Finally she reached a grove that seemed to be a pleasant place to walk and upon coming around a tree she stopped short for there standing with his back to her was William.

William obviously heard her for he turned around to see her trying to walk away.

"Elizabeth, please," he called.

If she had had her way Elizabeth would have kept on walking, but even now she realized what it must be taking for William to even look at her. He was a proud man and for him to have to beg her to listen, especially after her parting words to him the previous night, he must have something important to say.

"Would you do me the honor of reading this letter?" asked he.

Elizabeth accepted the letter as he bowed and walked away, slowly turning around she made her way to a tree stump. Then she sat down and started reading the letter. She looked at the date, 'Oh, Good Lord!' thought she, 'April 5... Today we have been married four years...'

Be not alarmed, madam, upon receiving this letter that it contains any repetition of my feelings which I now know to be disgusting to you. But I must be allowed to defend myself against the charges laid at my door.

In regards to Miss Bridget Howard, I do not deny that you saw us kissing at Netherfield, but you obviously did not realize that it was all on her side. Had you stayed a moment longer you would have seen me pull away. She said that she was attracted to me and that she believed us to be made for one another. I told her, very truthfully, that my heart belonged to another. Once I had convinced her that she would get no where with me I left the Library and returned to the Ballroom.

Then, as you know, our party departed from Netherfield. You may imagine my surprise, when a week later I came across a letter addressed to me from Mr. Howard. He was demanding I make Bridget an honest women by marrying her, for he informed me I was the father of her child.

I immediately replied, saying it was impossible for me to marry her. I also told him in no uncertain terms that I was not the father of her child. I asked him to inquire of his daughter if she had been with a Mr. Wickham. I had been out riding one day and saw them together. Yes, Elizabeth, Mr. Wickham, the man who is your very reliable source of information on your husband's indiscreet behavior.

Miss. Howard confessed that Mr. Wickham was the man. Mr. Howard then had to find someone who would marry his daughter, Mr. Wickham had told Bridget that he would never marry her. At last, Mr. Howard came across a man who would do very well, a Mr. Clement who had been in love with Bridget for years and was willing to marry her, even knowing about her condition. All this I learned in a letter of apology from Mr. Howard and should you want to see the letter for yourself I will send it to you.

At Lucas Lodge, though I am aware it sounds like a pitiful excuse, the only reason I said what I did was to tease you. I thought you would mention it, but until last night, you never did. You perhaps heard Miss. Howard thank me, and you may think that in light of recent events that sounded suspicious. The only reason she thanked me was that she had dropped her fan and I had given it back to her.

In regard to the mention you made of Lady Claudia Ashby, I can only tell you what sort of women she really is. She is a women who is not above making advances to any man she thinks worthy. I was one of them. About six months ago, I was at a dinner party and so was Lady Ashby. I was out on the terrace, when she came up to me and started kissing me. I know I should have told you from the start, but I feared what your reaction would be. It was a well known fact in London that she was at that point getting bored with her present lover, who was non other than Mr. Wickham. I told her that her advances were most unwelcome and thankfully she left it at that.

Soon after the incident, it came to my attention that the whole of London thought we were involved, I knew not how this rumor had started. Then, one day I went around to her Townhouse to ask after these rumors and to my surprise, found my cousin Edmund Fitzwilliam there. He was her new lover and unfortunately for me, my cousin and I are very much alike in appearance.

I began to wonder who could be spreading these rumors, using the fact that my cousin and I resemble each other, to his advantage. It was then that I remembered Mr. Wickham, since my father's death and sometime before that my childhood friend and I had become something close to enemies. He began to have an even stronger resentment of me than ever before, so it seemed logical that he would have wanted to bring shame upon me, I believe that to be why he started the rumors. Eventually, the rumors became old news and I thought I was safe from him. I was wrong.

You may remember in one of my letters I detailed how my sister had been taken from school to Ramsgate and placed in the care of Mrs. Younge. I also told you that a man who had known Georgiana since she was a child soon followed her to there. I need not remind you of all the particulars of my sister's intended elopement, but I must tell you that the man was Wickham.

As I said last evening, I did separate your sister and Bingley, at the time I believed my convictions to be perfectly reasonable. I had not long been in Hertfordshire before I saw that Bingley admired your sister and considering our relationship I could see nothing wrong with my good friend marrying your sister. I had often seen Bingley in love before and that being to case I know it does not last long. I thought this was the same way with Jane, at first. It wasn't until the Netherfield ball that I noticed a genuine attraction, though your sister accepted his attentions with pleasure, it did not appear that she felt about Bingley as he felt about her. When I met with Bingley in London, I immediately set about informing him of my discoveries, at first it was not an easy task but he eventually believed that your sister was indifferent to him. There is one part in the matter that I do not look upon with satisfaction, it is that I concealed from him your sister's being in town, perhaps this concealment was beneath me. It is done, however, and it was done for the best. On this subject I have no further apology to make.

I hope to deliver this letter into your hands sometime in the course of the morning. I will only add, God bless you.

Fitzwilliam Darcy

Elizabeth sat for a while contemplating all she had learned. It was at that moment that she realized he had made no mention of the child, all she knew was that she hoped he doubted what she had said. Looking at the paper in her hand she immediately read it over again, when she had finished, Elizabeth knew how wrong she had been. William was too good for her, she only hoped that eventually he would forgive her.

When she returned to the Parsonage, Maria informed her that the gentleman had come to take their leave, this somewhat distressed Elizabeth. Not long after Elizabeth went, for the last time, to Rosings. Lady Catherine criticized her for being dull, she didn't care, all she wanted was William, but that would never happen now and it was all her own fault. Elizabeth began to wonder what would happen, would they have a divorcee, just like their marriage had been... Secret?

Only time would tell...

Chapter 32

Elizabeth returned to Longbourn to find that life was much as it ever was. The only difference being that Kitty and Lydia were constantly complaining about the loss of the officers. Lydia had asked Elizabeth to talk to Mr. Bennet about them all going to Brighton. Elizabeth refused, saying it was a good thing that they were to be separated from the officers.

"Lizzy! How can you say such a thing?" cried Mrs. Bennet.

"Very easily. If one small regiment can cause such havoc in our family, what would a whole campful of soldiers do?"

"A whole campful of soldiers!" sighed Lydia.

"Well, we know you would not care, Lizzy! For you are off to Scotland in three days... I do not know what your aunt was thinking! Inviting you to come with her to Scotland with her... and so close to her confinement! It is highly improper for a young lady to be exposed to such things."

"Mama..."

"Lizzy," began Mr. Bennet, "Leave it."

Mrs. Bennet smirked at her daughter, "If I had my way you would not be going at all! What can my dear sister be thinking? Traveling around to country in her condition..."

"Mrs. Bennet, your sister wants Elizabeth there with her. I see nothing wrong with the plan, besides we already promised she could go before we found about your sister's condition."

"I don't think it is very fair! Lizzy gets to go to Scotland and I don't get to go to Brighton!" said Lydia with a pout.

"I don't get to go to Brighton either!" cried Kitty.

"I know my dears, but your father is determined to be cruel."

"I confess I am. I'm glad you are come back Lizzy. I'm glad you are come back Jane," said Mr. Bennet as he left the table.

"Oh! I want to go to Brighton!" whined Lydia.

Later that day, Jane and Elizabeth went out to garden to cut flowers.

It was at this moment that Elizabeth took the opportunity to tell her sister that she was worried about her, Jane merely told her that she still thought Mr. Bingley to be the nicest man of her acquaintance, confirming Elizabeth's suspicions that Jane was still in love with Mr. Bingley.

Jane then slowly returned to the house and Mrs. Bennet came out. She immediately started complaining about Mr. Bingley leaving Jane and how her only comfort was that Jane would die of a broken heart and then Mr. Bingley would be sorry.

It was at that moment that Lydia and Kitty ran out of the house,

"Mama!" exclaimed Lydia, "You'll never guess! Mrs. Foster has invited me to come with her to Brighton! Colonel Foster is to take a house for us!"

"Oh! What an honor to be so singled out!" squealed Mrs. Bennet.

"It is not fair!" cried Kitty running back to the house.

Lydia went on about buying new clothes, that Kitty should not be in a miff, and that she was sure her father would let her go.

An hour later Elizabeth was trying to convince her father not to let Lydia go. She reminded her father that Lydia's wild behavior was a disadvantage to them all and that she would only end up disgracing her family. Mr. Bennet was not prepared to see reason, he thought that this was a good opportunity for Lydia to enjoy herself with little expense. It was settled, Lydia would go to Brighton.

Three days later, the Gardiners arrived. They came early in the morning, hoping that they could get to Scotland in good time, also they hoped to arrive before Mrs. Bennet could detain them. On this occasion, however, Mrs. Bennet was awake early.

After the good-byes had been made and the rest of the girls were all walking into the house, Mrs. Bennet turned to her husband and whispered, "I think it very odd that my dear sister is not showing!"

"Indeed," muttered Mr. Bennet walking into his Library, he really had not time for this silliness.

"Well, Lizzy," said Mrs. Gardiner with a smile, "How is the baby?"

"Everything appears to be fine, but I will be much more at ease when I can see a doctor."

"I'll be much more at ease when we get to Scotland. Period!" stated Mr. Gardiner.

"That too," laughed Mrs. Gardiner, then turning serious she said to her niece, "You are sure about this, Lizzy? It may be very hard to hand your child over to us when this is all over."

"Aunt, I have no other choice. I know she will be well looked after."

"She? So it is a 'she', is it?" asked Mrs. Gardiner with a smile.

"I just know... That's all... You understand me, aunt, it is a woman thing."

"Oh dear," murmured Mr. Gardiner, "I'm going to have to put up with these 'woman things', am I?"

"Edward!" Mrs. Gardiner reprimanded her husband, while Elizabeth smiled weakly.

They rode on in silence for a few minutes until Mrs. Gardiner asked, "How was your stay in Kent?"

Elizabeth turned to the window to hide the pain she felt at the mention of that place. It was a moment before she could reply.

"As nice as can be expected when one is in the company of Lady Catherine de Bourgh."

"So, your other Aunt is that bad, is she?" laughed Mr. Gardiner.

Elizabeth nodded, for she was unable to say anything else. She had been doing her best to keep William out of her mind, she had not succeeded. All she could think about were her last words to him and his reaction. Elizabeth, was sure there was no chance of him ever forgiving her.

"Lizzy!" cried Mrs. Gardiner, for the third time, "Are you ill?"

Elizabeth snapped out of her reverie, she shook her head in reply to her aunt's question as she cast her eyes down to hide the tears. Elizabeth was acutely aware that her aunt and uncle were looking at her.

"Lizzy..."

"I'm fine aunt," Elizabeth sniffled.

"Oh, Lizzy, dear," sighed Mrs. Gardiner putting an arm around her niece, "What is wrong what happened?"

"He was there."

"Who was where?" asked Mr. . Gardiner.

"My husband... was at Rosings."

"Oh, dear! Did something happen?"

"He... he knows about the baby..."

"Well, it can't be that bad," said Mr. Gardiner, somewhat relived.

"It is... he... I... I told him the baby... wasn't his... I was so wrong... he is too good..." Elizabeth choked out.

"You told him what!" gasped Mrs. Gardiner.

"You heard correctly, Aunt," said Elizabeth and with a great effort fought back the rest of her tears, "I was so wrong about him. He explained everything to me, he never a mistress and he is not the father of Bridget's baby."

"Well, I suppose that is a relief, Lizzy?"

"It is, Uncle, but he will never want me now... I think my baby will always be yours..." with these last words Elizabeth broke down in tears once more.

That evening at the Inn they had stopped at, Elizabeth gave a more detailed account of what had happened. She explained why she felt William would never want to see her again. The Gardiners tried to reassure her, but didn't succeed, for they were, themselves, doubtful.

Chapter 33

Darcy Townhouse - June 10, 1812

"He had been like this ever since he came back from, Kent! What am I to do, Richard?" cried Georgiana.

"I don't know what can be done," sighed the Colonel.

"All William ever does is go to his fencing master, or stay in the study supposedly working on business, or he spends most of his time in the Library."

"Have you suggested going somewhere with him... Like the theatre?"

"Yes! He just says he is too busy!"

After a pause the Colonel asked, "Would you like me to talk with him?"

"No... I think I should... Do I... do I ask him as soon as he returns?"

"I think the sooner, the better... But would you like me to stay here when you ask him?"

"It will be well."

Not long after the Colonel left the townhouse. Georgiana tried to concentrate on her music without much success. An hour later she heard her brother arrive, he didn't come to see her, instead she heard him close the door to the study, getting up from the bench Georgiana followed him.

"William," Georgiana tentatively opened the door. He was sitting in a chair his elbows resting on his knees and his fingers in his hair.

"Yes," sighed William, not really wanting to talk with his sister, he was getting increasingly distant with everyone.

"I... ah... I was wondering if you would tell me what was worrying you," Georgiana whispered.

"It is of no importance!" snapped William, but when he saw his sister's hurt expression he softened his tone, "Oh, Georgie, I am sorry."

"There is no need, William."

Georgiana came to take the chair opposite her brother.

"I am willing to listen, if you want me to. I just hate seeing you like this."

"Your too young to understand."

"Have you looked at me lately, William? I am not a little girl anymore. I know I do not understand everything in the world, but I do try. I will not ask you again, but just let me say I will do whatever I can to help!" Georgiana stood up and made her way to the door, she stopped when William asked,

"Do you really wish to help?"

"Of course!" cried Georgiana coming back to her brother's side.

"Well then, you best sit down for I have a long story to tell."

Georgiana did as she was told.

"Where do I begin?" said William more to himself than to his sister, "...In Kent... No. That is not where this story starts. Do you remember that shortly after father died I went to Scotland? ... You were only twelve at the time."

"I remember, you went to visit John and his wife. I stayed with Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam."

"Yes... I went to Burnley Hall, counting on my recovering from our lose, but I never expected to fall in love. Harriet Burnley's friend was also staying there. A Miss Elizabeth Bennet..."

"Pardon me, for interrupting, but isn't she the young lady Miss. Bingley is always teasing you about?"

"The very one. As you can guess we met once again in Hertfordshire. Netherfield is but three miles from her father's estate."

"Oh. Sorry, do continue."

"Elizabeth, was unlike any other women I had ever met and before I knew it, I had fallen in love. I finally worked up enough courage to confess my feelings, to my relief and pleasure she felt to same way. I knew Aunt Catherine would never consent to my marrying someone who was not her daughter so Elizabeth and I devised a scheme. Since Burnley was not far from Gretna Green, we decided to elope."

"Did you!?" gasped Georgiana.

"Yes, and we have now been married for four years. You may be thinking it was wonderful that we met again and it was, for a time. Then things started going wrong and I have since traced that to someone I do not wish to mention, but I feel it is necessary. Wickham arrived in the local village of Meryton and he managed to convince Elizabeth that I had a mistress."

"How could she believe him!?" exclaimed Georgiana, still digesting the news that she had a sister.

"I do not know. The point is that she did."

"Yes," said she, feeling guilty over the incident at Ramsgate, "W-what happened next?"

"What happened did anything but improve Elizabeth's opinion of me. During the Netherfield ball, Elizabeth was treating me very coldly, a result of her believing Wickham. I danced with her, it was obvious she did not want to dance with me, but for some reason she did. After that dance I went to the Library, hoping for peace and quiet so I could have time to think. I was very surprised when a young lady entered the room, she feigned surprise at seeing me. I asked her to excuse me and was about to leave to room when she took hold of my arms and pulled me to face her... You may imagine my surprise when she immediately kissed me. Though, I did not know this until later, I believe it was at that very moment that Elizabeth walked into the room."

"Oh, dear G-d!" cried Georgiana, wanting to immediately find this young woman and rip her to shreds for hurting her brother and sister-in-law, following the young 'lady', Wickham's mysterious disappearance...

"I need not go into further details. You know that following the ball that I returned to London. I was very surprised, when a week later, I came across a letter from the young woman's father demanding I marry his daughter, for she was expecting a baby. He was under the impression that the child was mine. I will only say that I convinced the gentleman of the truth and his daughter is now married, with no damage to her character. During the months following my return to London, I was worried because I heard nothing from Elizabeth... We had been writing letters to one another for the past four years, sending them to each other by way of the Burnleys. When I finally decided to write to her. If she got my letter, she never replied."

"Is that why you were sad?"

"Was it that obvious?"

"To me it was... Did something else happen... while you were in Kent?"

"Yes. Elizabeth was in Hunsford, visiting her friend who married Aunt Catherine's parson, the parson is also her cousin. While I was there I noticed a change in Elizabeth, it was not just in her manner... but in her appearance. She looked as healthy as ever, so I knew she was not ill. Then one day it just hit me... Elizabeth was with child..."

"With child!" Georgiana's jaw dropped. She had been surprised to learn she had a sister, but to learn that she was a aunt really caught her off guard.

"Yes, I wondered why she had not told me. Then the day before we left Rosings, I went to see Elizabeth at the Parsonage, she had not come to Rosings as the rest of the party had. Her friend informed us that she had a headache. I saw this as an opportunity to ask her reasons for treating me in such a cold manner, and also to inquire about the child she was carrying. In the end we had a large argument about the woman she supposed to be my mistress, the other young lady, and her sister and Charles. The worst part about the argument was at the end, when I asked after the baby," William stood up and walked over to the window. When he continued, Georgiana realized he was trying to remain in control, but not having much success.

"When I asked after the baby... She... She told me that I was not the father."

There was a stunned silence as Georgiana thought over what her brother said, "Do you... believe her?"

"No."

"Forgive my asking, do you not believe her because you don't want to? Or do you have reason to doubt her?"

"Both. I do not want to believe that she could be unfaithful to me. Also, during the argument she said to me, 'Not only am I carrying your chi...', I think she almost confessed that the baby was mine."

"William, why would she say such a thing in the first place?"

"I believe she wanted to hurt me... It certainly worked," he turned around to face his sister, "The odd thing is, that in spite of what she has said to me, I still love her."

Georgiana wanted to ask him so much more but was not sure how to go about it, he brother obviously needed time to recover before he told her anything else. One thing that intrigued her was wondering what Elizabeth had done with the baby. She was also puzzled by the mention of Charles and Elizabeth's sister, but that would have to wait till later.

Five minutes later, William told his sister he would go for a ride. He then left the Library, where Georgiana remained thinking over all that her brother had told her.

Little did William know, that miles away in a small cottage somewhere in Scotland, Elizabeth had just delivered a premature, but healthy baby girl... His daughter.

Chapter 34

Posted on Tuesday, 1 June 1999

_____ Inn, Brighton

"Well, Black! I trust you have some news for me," Wickham leaned in closer drawing out the money and placing it in front of his 'friend'.

"And I was thinkin' you were outa money!" said Mr. Black greedily reaching for the money, he was feeling out of place here. Unlike their regular meeting places, this was a reputable establishment.

"You can thank my Lydia for that, she has a soft spot for me. She actually believes I will repay her!"

Mr. Black coughed into his ale, "Yer lucky day, then."

"Yes, you swine! What do you have to tell me?! You can quit the 'pleasant' small talk."

"Patience, ain't yer strong point, is it? Well, remember what I told ya... 'bout 'is wife?"

"Of course, you nincompoop!"

"Well, I discovered somethin' that 'ill certainly 'elp. Back in April, they 'ad a little spat... No... truthfully, they 'ad one 'ell of a fight... people'd pay money to see somethin' like tha'."

"Would you get on with it man! I haven't much time."

"Fine! Yer, Mr. Darcy's wife is a carryin' a child."

There was a spluttering sound from a nearby table. Wickham and Black looked at the gentleman, but he turned his face away.

"A child," whispered Wickham, "Darcy was not happy about this then?"

"Can ye blame 'im!? The sly b***h said the baby wasn't 'is."

"This is wonderful, Black. Have you anything else to tell me?"

"No."

"Well, what information you have given me will fit in nicely with what I already have planned."

With that Wickham got up and left the tavern, Black soon followed. It was only then that the Colonel raised his head. In the space of a few minutes many things had become crystal clear. He had to do something to help his cousin, but what?

Chapter 35

Posted on Saturday, 5 June 1999

Elizabeth woke up in the dimly lit room, for a moment she forgot where she was, then she heard the quiet sounds of her baby and she remembered everything. She had been so frightened when she realized that she was going to have the baby earlier than expected. Her aunt had done everything to comfort her, but she was still worried that in the process her daughter may have gotten hurt. Carefully easing herself into a sitting position she realized that her aunt had fallen asleep in the chair beside the bed,

"Aunt," she whispered, "Aunt!"

"Ahh!!" exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner as she quickly woke up, "Oh! Lizzy, you startled me. How are you dear?"

"Do you mean apart from feeling like I have been run over by one of Lady Catherine's several carriages?"

Laughing at her niece's sarcasm, Mrs. Gardiner reached into the bassinet and gently lifted the baby out.

"This is your, Mama, little one," whispered Mrs. Gardiner as she gently placed the baby in Elizabeth's arms.

Elizabeth smiled at her daughter, "She has..." Elizabeth stopped, she didn't want to see the resemblance between William and his baby.

"What, Lizzy?"

"I was going to say she looked like, William."

"Ah... Well, I'll leave you alone with her for a little bit."

A few minutes later Mrs. Gardiner returned with her husband the three of them spent the next little while exclaiming over the girl.

"What are you going to call her, Lizzy?"

"I haven't given it much thought. Will..."

"Yes, Lizzy," said Mr. Gardiner, he and his wife had become accustomed to Elizabeth almost saying her husband's name, then stopping.

"My husband always said if we had a daughter, he would like to call her Elizabeth, but I never really wanted a child of mine named after me."

"You could use Elizabeth as a second name or you could use a diminutive of the name as a first name. What about Beth?"

"Yes... but I often thought I could name a daughter of mine after William's mother... Anne... Beth Anne," said Elizabeth testing the sound of the name, she didn't like the sound of it.

"Lizzy... You may not want my interference, however, would you consider calling her Elise, instead of Beth. Elise Anne."

"Elise Anne, I like that... However, if you think about it she is still named after me! Elizabeth Anne. Elise Anne."

"True, but I think the sound of that name is very pleasing," added Mrs. Gardiner.

Laughing, Elizabeth said, "Only a few moments ago, I couldn't think what names I would like to give her. Now, I can think of many others!"

"That is usually the way it is," chuckled Mr. Gardiner.

"Very well, she is Elise Anne," stated Elizabeth, while mentally adding 'Darcy'.

The next month passed quickly for Elizabeth. She knew it would soon be time for her to return to Longbourn and the Gardiners to London. What she remained unaware of was the scheme the Gardiners were putting into action.

Mr. Gardiner had retrieved the letters and was reading them at breakfast. Elizabeth observed a satisfied smile cross his face as he read a letter which she realized was from her father.

"Well, Lizzy. We have a proposition for you. What would you say to coming with us on a journey into Derbyshire."

"Derbyshire!" cried Elizabeth, "Why? I mean... What about Elise? We can not possibly travel with her. And what will my parents say?"

"Of course we can and your father has already given his consent," soothed Mrs. Gardiner, guessing another reason for her nieces reluctance to visit Derbyshire.

"Indeed! It is possible, Lizzy. Why you aunt and I traveled to Longbourn in the middle of winter with Kate when she was a little younger than Elise."

"But... but..."

"Lizzy. Everything is sorted, we have arranged for a new nursemaid to meet us in Lambton..."

"Lambton!" gasped Elizabeth, "I can not go to Lambton, Will... he might be there!"

"Yes! And if he is you will not find a better opportunity to try and mend your marriage. You have, after all, been telling us that you would like nothing better than to have things as they were."

"Yes... I... I am just frightened that he may never forgive me. I don't think I could stand it... I would turn into Mama... Suffering from nerves and going into a fit of vapors at the slightest provocation!"

"That is a bit dramatic, Lizzy," admonished Mrs. Gardiner, "Think of it this way... You could spend more time with Elise."

Mrs. Gardiner knew just how appealing it would be to her niece to be allowed more time with her daughter. It worked,

"Very well," replied Elizabeth.

"Wonderful!" exclaimed Mr. Gardiner, "We leave in two days."

Chapter 36

Posted on Saturday, 12 June 1999

A week later the Gardiners, Elizabeth and Elise settled into Lambton. Mrs. Gardiner was eager to see many of her friends and to keep up appearances she showed off 'her baby'. Elizabeth always came along on these visits and if any of Mrs. Gardiner's friends noticed a slight resemblance between Elise and Elizabeth they merely thought it was because they were cousins.

Mrs. Gardiner delayed any suggestion of a tour of Pemberley for some time, waiting for the right moment. That day finally came, after they had been in Lambton for a number of days.

"What would you say to visiting Pemberley tomorrow? It is not directly in our way but no more than a mile or two out of it."

Elizabeth looked up momentarily, alarmed, "Do you really wish to see it, Aunt?"

"I would have thought you would, having heard so much about it!"

"I... I... Should feel awkward to visit the place without a proper invitation!"

"Lizzy! What need is there?" cried Mrs. Gardiner really meaning that as the mistress of the house Elizabeth should see it.

Elizabeth was spared the need of replying, for Hannah, the serving girl came into the room at that moment.

"How far are we from, Pemberley?" asked Mr. Gardiner of Hannah.

"Not more, 'un five miles, sir."

"The grounds are very lovely, are they not?"

"As fine as you'll see anywhere, ma'am. My oldest brother is an undergardener there."

Elizabeth took this opportunity to ask the question that was most important to her, "Is the family here for the summer?"

"No, ma'am," answered Hannah as she curtsied and left the room.

"Well then?" asked Mrs. Gardiner.

"Perhaps we might visit Pemberley after all," said Elizabeth.

It would have been agreeable to the Colonel to have left Brighton by the afternoon following his discovery, but as it was he was prevented from leaving until the week after. When he finally reached London and arrived at the Darcy townhouse it was to find the place shut up. Upon inquiry he found that his cousins, along with a party of friends, had left for Pemberley only the day before. It was with this news that the Colonel determined to follow them the next day.

Chapter 37

Elizabeth woke up that morning feeling very uneasy. As she dressed many thoughts ran through her head:

What if Hannah was wrong? What if William is there and no one is aware of it!? It would be so very awkward if he was!

"Lizzy! Do hurry up, we do not want to be late," Mrs. Gardiner cried as she came into her nieces room with little Elise in her arms.

Grabbing her bonnet she followed her aunt and daughter downstairs where Mr. Gardiner was waiting. The ride to Pemberley was quiet, except for the gurgling of Elise, who was in Elizabeth's arms, and the mention Mr. Gardiner made of them now being on Mr. Darcy's land.

"I think we have seen woods and groves, enough, to satisfy even your enthusiasm for them, Lizzy," said Mr. Gardiner.

"Indeed... Will we reach the house itself before dark, do you think?" asked Elizabeth trying to ease her apprehension.

"Be patient... Wait," said Mrs. Gardiner as she held up her hand, ready to indicate Pemberley.

It was just at that moment that the great estate came into view. Elizabeth gasped at the sight of it. The lake in front of it, the lawn that swept up to the grand entrance and the sunlight illuminating it, rendered the house so beautiful that it made Elizabeth love the house as much as her husband.

"How do you like the house, Lizzy?"

"I like it very well, indeed. I don't think I have ever seen a house more happily situated."

Mrs. Gardiner was tempted to bring up the owner of the house as a topic of discussion, but she could not be that cruel to her niece. Instead, she asked,

"Shall we inquire of the housekeeper to see inside the place?"

Elizabeth nodded, her curiosity had been awakened.

Mrs. Reynolds was more than pleased to show them around. She lead them through many of the fine rooms, praising the family at every opportunity. Elise, curled up in Mrs. Gardiner's arms, slept through most of the tour, not caring or knowing that she was being lead through her Papa's home.

"... This was where Mrs. Darcy used to write her letters every morning. It was her favorite room... And this is the Music Room."

The Gardiners exclaimed over the room, while Mrs. Reynolds said to Elizabeth, "There is a fine prospect from that window down towards the lake."

Taking the hint Elizabeth walked to the window.

"This piano has just come down. It is a present from my master for, Miss Georgiana."

"Your master is from home, we understand.

"Yes, but we expect him here tomorrow. He is coming with a large party of friends and Miss Georgiana."

Elizabeth paused before turning away from the window. She was not sure whether she was relieved or disappointed that he was not here.

Mrs. Reynolds then drew their attention to the portrait of Georgiana. After examining it, Mrs. Gardiner called them over to a little table, she knew the picture was of Wickham, but she assumed the other gentleman to be Lizzy's husband, she hoped that Mrs. Reynolds would tell more tales of her fine master, for Lizzy's benefit.

"Lizzy, do come and look at this picture. It reminds me very much of someone we know!"

"This one, ma'am," said Mrs. Reynolds, "He was the son of the late Mr. Darcy's steward. He has gone into the army now, but I am afraid he has turned out very wild... And that's my master and very like him too."

"It is a handsome face, but I have never seen the original. Is it like him, Lizzy?" asked Mrs. Gardiner as she carefully kept Elise's little hands from touching the glass.

"Oh! Does this young lady know the master?" cried Mrs. Reynolds before her attention was drawn to the baby. She felt certain she had seen the child's likeness somewhere.

Elizabeth colored and replied, stammering, "A little."

"And he is very handsome, is he not, ma'am?" asked Mrs. Reynolds telling herself she was imagining things.

"Yes, very handsome."

"I am sure I know none so handsome, or so kind. There is a finer larger portrait of him in the gallery upstairs," said Mrs. Reynolds preparing to lead them there.

On the way to the gallery Mr. Gardiner asked, "Is your master much at Pemberley in the course of the year?"

"Not so much as I could wish, sir."

"Perhaps, if your master were to marry, you might see more of him."

"Yes, sir, but I do not know when that will be. I do not know who is good enough for him. I long to see his own children running through the halls of Pemberley, as he used to when he was a boy."

It was all Elizabeth could do to keep from blushing, but her eyes were drawn to Elise, an action that did not go unnoticed by the Gardiners.

They were shown the picture of William and Elizabeth remained at it for some minutes. She was very much aware of her guilt in treating him as she had, accusing him so unjustly, believing others and not asking him for an explanation.

'I don't deserve you!' thought she as they passed the portrait on their way out of the room.

When they had taken leave of the housekeeper they were escorted, by the gardener, across the lawn. Mrs. Gardiner had handed Elise over to Elizabeth and while the Gardiners remained discussing the house, mother and daughter slowly walked towards the lake.

Elizabeth was so intent upon whispering to Elise, who was basking in the attention, that she did not observe the figure a short distance away. However, upon looking up, Elizabeth beheld the master of the estate at the same time he discovered her presence.

Chapter 38

Posted on Sunday, 13 June 1999

"William!"

"Elizabeth!"

Neither of them knew what to say to the other. It was during these awkward moments that Elizabeth saw he was soaking wet and that William saw she was holding a baby in her arms. He was struck by the child's resemblance to Elizabeth, the same eyes and mouth! Was it possible that this was her baby? And dare he presume... his?

"We did not expect to see you here," she gasped looking at Elise.

"I... returned a day early... Your parents are in good health?" asked he, tearing his yes away from the baby.

'He is actually speaking to me!'

"Yes, I thank you, they are."

"I'm glad to hear it... How... how long have you been in this part of the country?"

"Two days, sir."

"And where are you staying?"

"At the inn in Lambton."

"Oh, yes. Of course... Well, I just arrived myself... And your parents and all your sisters are in good health."

"They are all in excellent health, sir."

William, could think of nothing else to say. Excusing himself, he set off to the house.

Elizabeth was standing in the same place, when the Gardiners came up.

"The man himself, I presume!" cried Mr. Gardiner, hoping they had not said anything that had upset the other.

"And just as handsome as in his portrait, though perhaps a little less formerly attired," said Mrs. Gardiner.

"We must leave here at once!" exclaimed Elizabeth turning on her heal and clutching Elise, started walking in the direction of the carriage. Her aunt and uncle followed, asking if he was displeased and what he had said.

When the group had reached the carriage, Elizabeth gave Elise to her aunt and made to climb get into the carriage. However, she was prevented from this by William's voice saying,

"Miss. Bennet!"

Elizabeth turned to face, William as he said, "I hope you were not leaving."

"Yes, we were, sir. I think we must." He had obviously changed into dry clothes but his hair was still adorably wet.

"I hope you're not displeased with, Pemberley?"

"No."

"Then you approve of it?" asked William.

'Elizabeth, please see that I am not angry over the things we said in Hunsford!'

"Very much. But I think there are few who would not approve."

William smiled at this, "But your good opinion is rarely bestowed and, therefore, more worth the earning."

"Thank you," replied Elizabeth, slightly confused.

"Would you do me the honor of introducing me to your friends?"

"Certainly," walking over to the Gardiners, she said, "Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gardiner, and," Elizabeth paused uneasily, "Elise Gardiner, Mr. Darcy."

'I would not have believed this child to be their daughter!' thought William.

William greeted them saying cordially, "Your staying in Lambton, I hear."

"Yes, I grew up there as a girl," said Mrs. Gardiner.

'I knew that, didn't I? However, her lovely niece had distracted me!'

"Delightful village. I remember running from Pemberley to Lambton almost every day in the horse chestnut season... There was one very fine tree there..."

"On the green, by the Smithy!" exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner.

"The very one! Mr. Gardiner, do you care for fishing?"

William was aware that, Elizabeth was looking at him in shock. He knew she believed he would still be angry.

"Indeed, I do, sir. When I get the chance of it."

"Well, if you have time during your stay you are more than welcome to come and fish in my trout stream. I should be happy to provide you with rods and tackle, and show you the best spots... Let us walk down, now."

William and Mr. Gardiner walked ahead of Mrs. Gardiner, Elizabeth, and Elise. Mrs. Gardiner was tempted to say something to her niece, but did not when she realized that Elizabeth's thoughts were miles away.

As they came closer to the gentlemen, Mrs. Gardiner handed Elise to Elizabeth and went to join her husband. Elizabeth held back and turned slightly away from the group, hoping that she did not appear to be too perplexed. She was made even more uncomfortable when William joined her.

They walked a little ahead of the Gardiners, while Elizabeth said after a moments hesitation, "I must say again, sir, how unexpected your arrival was. Had we known you were coming, we should never have invaded your privacy. Mrs. Reynolds assured us you would not be back until tomorrow."

"Pray, do not make yourself uneasy. I had planned it so myself, but I found I had business with my steward, so I rode ahead of the rest of the party without informing anyone... If I hadn't, we might not..." William paused uncomfortably and glanced at Elizabeth and Elise, "There are those in the party that claim an acquaintance with you," he paused once more, remembering the argument they had in Hunsford, "Mr. Bingley and his sisters."

"Oh."

"There is one in the party who particularly wishes to know you. Would you..."

Elise chose this moment to gurgle happily and look at her father with her 'fine eyes' that resembled her mother's, too strongly to be ignored.

"Would it be asking too much for me to introduce my sister to you during your stay in Lambton?" asked William, wondering what had happened to their baby. The thought that Elise might be his and Elizabeth's child did persist.

"I should be delighted to make her acquaintance."

"Thank you," he replied.

They slowed their walking and it was not long before they were walking with the Gardiners. When the group arrived back at the carriage, William asked them if they would care to come in for refreshments. They were genuinely sorry they had to refuse, due to a prior engagement, however, it did give time for Elizabeth to think about all that had happened.

William handed Elizabeth into the carriage and said, "I hope we shall meet again very soon. Good day, Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner. Good day, Eliza... Miss. Bennet."

The carriage started forward and William was relieved to observe Elizabeth turning to look at him as they drove out of sight.

Chapter 39

Posted on Monday, 14 June 1999

The following day found William pacing up and down the halls of Pemberley, anxious for the arrival of his sister so he could inform her of the wonderful news. Finally, he saw the carriages arriving.

Going out to meet them he was surprised to find his cousin in the carriage that held Miss. Bingley and Georgiana.

"Fitzwilliam! What ever are you doing here? I thought you were in Brighton."

The Colonel, true to his word, had set out the morning after he arrived in London. By the end of the day he had been obliged to put up at an inn along the way. He had been very pleased to discover that the very people he was looking for were also there, then he had found out that Darcy had rode on ahead of the party. So, he had been forced to wait and join the party the next day, and here he was.

"I... ah... was able to get away. I hope you are not displeased," stuttered the Colonel, wondering when he would be able to inform his cousin of his news.

"Displeased! Not at all, I am very glad you were able to join us."

After welcoming his guests he held his sister back, while the rest of them went inside.

"Georgiana, something has happened... Don't look like that, it is good news. Elizabeth is in Lambton."

"Your Elizabeth!"

"Shhhh!" he warned, "Yes, she is there with her aunt and uncle... and their daughter. I thought you may like to pay her a visit."

"Very much! Shall we go right away?"

"If you are not too tired."

"Oh, that is nothing!"

William and Georgiana then went into the house, where he asked for his great coat, etc. And Georgiana asked Mrs. Reynolds to tell their guests, should they ask where they went, that they had gone to visit and acquaintance.

Just as he and Georgiana were about to leave the Colonel and Bingley came down the stairs and asked to know what was going on. William answered the question and they immediately asked if they could accompany them.

Ten minutes later, William, Georgiana, the Colonel, and Bingley, set off.

Elizabeth, along with her aunt and uncle were at the inn, when the sound of a carriage arriving drew them to the window. Elizabeth immediately recognized the livery and retreated, fearful of being seen. She then spent the time pacing up and down the room until William and Georgiana were shown in.

Once the introductions had been performed, William took the opportunity to inform the Gardiners and Elizabeth of their other guests.

"My cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, has paid us a surprise visit. He, along with Mr. Bingley insisted on accompanying us. Shall I summon them?"

"Oh, indeed, Mr. Darcy. I think we would all like to see them," answered Mrs. Gardiner. William then left the room in search of them.

Turning to her sister-in-law, Elizabeth said, "I understand you are fond of music and play very well."

"Not very well, but I am fond of music. I should dearly love to hear you play and sing, my brother told me he has rarely heard anything that gave him more pleasure."

"I'm afraid your brother had grossly exaggerated my talents, not doubt, for some mischievous reason of his own."

"Oh, no! That could not be so. My brother never exaggerates. He always tells the absolute truth, though I believe he is sometimes a little to kind to me."

"An ideal elder brother then," replied Elizabeth, smilingly.

"Oh, yes! I could not imagine a better or a kinder one."

"You make me feel quite envious. I have not brothers at all, only four sisters."

"I should have liked to have had a sister," said Georgiana slyly, "However, the only way that could be is if William married, yet he has never shown any particular regard for any ladies of our acquaintance."

To the Gardiners, who had been paying close attention to this exchange, this seemed like a statement that need not have been said, unless it was to ensure that a certain someone might improve her opinion of her husband. Georgiana may prove to be a very helpful ally.

Elizabeth had no time to reply, for the gentlemen had returned, but she did blush thinking of her remarks in Hunsford.

Once more introductions where made and then all that remained was for Bingley to ask if all Elizabeth's sisters were still at Longbourn and for the Colonel to closely observe his cousin and Elizabeth. William reminded Mr. Gardiner that he would be welcome to come fish at Pemberley and they then enjoyed a conversation about the sport, before it was time for the guests to take their leave. It was at this moment that Georgiana, with a little prompting form her brother, asked them for dinner the following evening.

"Your daughter and her nursemaid are also welcome, Mrs. Gardiner," added William.

"We shall be delighted to join you and that is very kind of you, Mr. Darcy, to include Elise. I hope she will be no trouble."

"I am sure she will be fine."

Therefore, without further delay the guests left.

When they arrived back at Pemberley, the Colonel said to Darcy, in a lowered voice, "There is something of great importance that I need to tell you."

"Fitzwilliam, I shall meet you in my Study in fifteen minutes, I assure you. First I must present a gift to Georgiana."

Sighing, the Colonel walked in the direction of the Study. Once inside he helped himself to a drink and cast himself into one of the chairs. His cousin was obviously happy that his wife was so near and the Colonel was rather loath to inform him of something that would certainly dampen his spirits. The fifteen minutes went by all too fast for the Colonel, since before he knew it his cousin had joined him.

"Well," he said cheerfully, "What is this matter of great importance that you simply mush tell me?"

"Darcy, this is a very serious matter, or by the pains you have taken to conceal it, I assume it to be very serious."

"You, have my attention," said William adopting a serious tone.

"I know you are married. I know you are married to Elizabeth Bennet, as she was."

"How do you know this?" William cried, before blushing deeply.

"That is the part I fear you will not like. One evening when I was in Brighton, I went to a local tavern. While..."

"For G-d's sake, Fitzwilliam! Get to the point!"

"I am! While I was there I noticed Wickham come in, he sat down at table not far from mine, but it was in a very secluded corner. The man that was waiting at the table accepted some money from Wickham... Wickham then asked the man if he had any news for him. The man said that you and your wife had had a fight in Hunsford... over... over some things, but what caught my attention most of all was the fact that this informant knew that your wife was carrying a child... Your child?"

William stood looking out the window, this was not good news. With Wickham knowing he could be planning all kinds of revenge, Wickham could even tell Lady Catherine and then all these years of suffering, waiting and the misunderstandings they had endured during the last while, would have been of naught.

"Darcy... What do you plan to do about this?"

"I don't see what there is to do! If I confront him that may be just what he is hoping I will do... Then again, he may have bigger and better plans that would bring shame upon me and then he could extort some money from me. He does know that my allowance from Lady Catherine is quite large."

"True, but what will you do?"

"I think I have no choice but to leave things as they are."

"I suppose that is true... Darcy, would you mind telling me... How you came to marry her?" the Colonel chuckled, "Would you believe, it has only truly dawned on me, just now, that she is my cousin!?"

William managed a weak smile, he recognized that his cousin was trying to cheer him up, "True... She is your cousin. Well, I will tell you everything."

That is just what William did. He described his meeting with Elizabeth in Scotland, their meetings in Meryton (leaving out certain... ahem... details), their argument in Hunsford, and finally how they had met the day before.

Chapter 40

The Gardiners, Elizabeth, and Elise arrived punctually at Pemberley the next evening. They were ushered into the drawing room by the butler and greeted warmly by William, Georgiana, Bingley and the Colonel. Mrs. Hurst and Miss. Bingley barely acknowledged them, they didn't think it was right for a baby to be brought to Pemberley. Mr. Hurst was already too inebriated to care.

Miss. Bingley, however, soon warmed to Elise when she had the idea that Mr. Darcy may think her to be a suitable mistress for Pemberley if she showed an interest in children.

"May I hold her Mrs. Gardiner?" asked Caroline sweetly.

William and Georgiana noticed Elizabeth press her lips together in displeasure.

"If you wish to, Miss. Bingley," replied Mrs. Gardiner standing up and handing Elise to Caroline.

Elise instantly showed just how much she was like her parents. Caroline bothered her and the only way she could get out of this situation was to start wailing loudly. Caroline looked very perplexed at this change, while Elizabeth silently congratulated her daughter. William found the situation rather amusing, as well, and hid his smile behind his hand.

"I don't understand!" cried Caroline once she had deposited the annoying baby into Mrs. Gardiner's arms, "Babies like me!"

"Caroline... She is about the third baby you have ever held and all the others did the same thing as she," said the honest to a fault, Charles.

Caroline and Louisa glared at their brother, but it was no use he had already returned to the conversation he had been having with Mr. Gardiner and the Colonel.

Elise had now stopped wailing and was sitting happily in Mrs. Gardiner's arms. It was at this moment that Mrs. Gardiner thought it would be wise to put Elise in the care her nursemaid. If it was one thing that could be said for Elise, she was frightfully candid about her dislikes. Much like her mother.

Before and during dinner the conversation was comfortable for all but William and Elizabeth. They would constantly glance at one another and then blush when they happened to make eye contact. They wanted to say so much to each other, but they were still uncertain how to approach the subject. For William, seeing Elizabeth in his house, only made him want to forgive and forget all the more. She belonged at Pemberley, and that little nagging voice that would not be quieted, persisted that Elise did as well.

When dinner was over, William and the rest of the gentlemen stayed only as long as required, before joining the ladies in the music room.

Elizabeth and Georgiana were at the pianoforte with Mrs. Gardiner close by, sitting in a chair holding on to Elise. Bingley's sisters were perched on the sofa looking very displeased.

William saw that Elizabeth was going to play for them and he quickly made for the best seat from which he could observe her. She sang as beautifully as ever, but to him, everything about her was beautiful. He was surprised to see that when her song was finished, she managed to coax Georgiana into playing for the company, a task he had often failed in.

Elizabeth after leaving the piano made her way over to where her husband and uncle sat. William was certain she would have taken the seat next to him had not Miss. Bingley intervened.

"Miss Eliza Bennet, are the militia still at Meryton?"

"No, they are encamped at Brighton for the summer."

"That must be a great lose for your family."

"We are baring it as best we can, Miss. Bingley."

"I might have thought one gentleman's absence might have caused particular pangs."

William let go of the breath he was hold, drawing the attention of both ladies, but Caroline was not to be stopped.

"I can't imagine who you mean," said Elizabeth uneasily.

"I understood that certain ladies found the society of Mr. Wickham curiously agreeable."

Georgiana's fingers faltered on the keys. The Colonel shot an angry look at Caroline, William started to get up, the Gardiners exchanged a look of alarm, but it was Elizabeth who set everything right.

Turning back to her sister-in-law, she said, "I'm so sorry. How can you play with no one to turn the pages?" As she turned the page, Elizabeth's eyes met her husbands and they remained that way for most of the song.

To hide her embarrassment at the end of her performance Georgiana asked Mrs. Gardiner if she may hold the baby.

"Of course, Miss. Darcy."

Once Georgiana had her niece safely in her arms she sat down next to Mrs. Gardiner, as Elizabeth tentatively took the seat next to William.

"She is so perfect! William, do look at her."

"Yes, she is perfect. And I can see her from here, Georgiana. "

"What good is that?" lowering her voice so only Mrs. Gardiner would hear her she asked, "Could my brother hold the baby?"

'You are definitely an ally!' thought Mrs. Gardiner, while she whispered, "Of course!... Mr. Darcy, would you care to hold her?"

"I... ah... I'm not very good with babies."

"Nonsense! Lizzy... Come here."

Elizabeth instantly saw what her wicked aunt had in mind and to say that it pleased her would have been a lie and to say that it vexed her greatly would also have been a lie. Rising slowly she made her way over to them. Georgiana hid her satisfied smile by planting a little kiss on Elise's head as she placed the baby in Elizabeth's arms.

Telling herself that she would not blush, that she would not be uncomfortable, she would just put the baby in William's arms and that would be that, Elizabeth walked back to William.

William was now standing and looking very uneasy. He was determined that he would not be embarrassed and that he would act like he was holding just any baby, but he knew it would be hard since he was so convinced the child was Elizabeth's and his. After all, it seemed that the Gardiners raising the child as their own could have been the only way for Elizabeth to have a baby without bringing shame upon her own head and her family.

Elizabeth made to put Elise in his arms and at that moment she let out a little cry, knowing that she was being put into a strangers arms,

"Shhh," Elizabeth soothed and refused to look in William's eyes.

Instead of crying loudly as she had done with Caroline, Elise just settled herself in William's arms. She seemed to like where she was and almost before William had really sat down again she was asleep. It was almost as if she knew that in her father's arms she was safe.

"It would appear, Mr. Darcy, that you have found a friend," laughed Mrs. Gardiner.

Georgiana made her way over to the group and one would have had to have been blind to not realize that there sat family. William, Elizabeth, Elise and Georgiana.

It was not long after that the Gardiners and Elizabeth took their leave. William, Georgiana, Bingley and the Colonel walked them out to the carriage.

As William helped Elizabeth into the carriage he squeezed her hand three times, a signal they had devised that night they spent together at Netherfield. It simply meant, 'I love you'. William was very relieved when he felt her squeeze his hand three times.

Chapter 41

Posted on Friday, 25 June 1999

William stepped forward and watched the carriage depart. Elizabeth still loved him, of that he could be certain and it was with this pleasant thought that he turned and followed the others back to the house.

Once inside, Georgiana made her excuses and retired for the evening, while William, Bingley and the Colonel went to join the rest of the guests.

"How ill Eliza Bennet looked this evening! I have never seen anyone so much altered since the spring. She has grown so brown! Louisa and I were agreeing that we should hardly know her!" cried Miss. Bingley as soon as they entered the room. The Colonel glanced at his cousin wondering how he would handle this, he was surprised to see that he looked completely unruffled.

"I noticed no great difference. She has a little tan, I suppose, but hardly a surprise when one travels in the sun," replied William calmly.

"For my part, I never saw much beauty in her face... Oh, her teeth are tolerable I suppose. As to her eyes, which I have sometimes heard called fine, I could never perceive anything in them. I believe you thought her pretty at one time, Mr. Darcy."

"Yes, I did... But it has been many yea... months now since I have considered her one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance!" William stated and shortly after excused himself from the room.

The Following Morning

Elizabeth and the Gardiners were getting ready to leave the Inn when Hannah came into the room with two letters for Elizabeth from Jane. Elizabeth asked to be excused from accompanying her aunt and uncle, they willingly let her stay, knowing how much she had been hoping for a letter from her sister.

Elizabeth sat down to enjoy her sister's letter.

My Dear Lizzy,

I hope your journey has been as delightful as you anticipated. We shall have much to talk about when you return to Longbourn.

I confess I have hardly had time to write. The little Gardiners have been taking up all my time. How is little Elise? I am most anxious to meet the youngest member of the family! Mama spends most of her day above stairs or with Mrs. Phillips, I believe she finds the children's exuberance a little trying on her nerves. We all miss you, father most of all I believe.

Lizzy, since writing the above, something has occurred of a rather serious nature. Last night, just as we were all gone to bed, an express came to us from Colonel Foster. It said that Lydia had run off with one of his officers, to own the truth, with Wickham.

Mama went into hysterics. Papa, was speechless for a full minute. To Kitty, this news does not seem to be unexpected. I, however, am willing to believe the best. I shall write again as soon as I have more news.

Jane

Elizabeth quickly tore open the other letter and began reading.

Lizzy,

I scarce know what to write, for I have bad news.

They did not go to Scotland after all. Instead they were traced as far as London. Our father has gone to London, with Colonel Foster, to try to discover them. I can not help but beg you all to come here as soon as possible. I know out Uncle's help would be most welcome.

Jane

"Oh, yes! Where is my uncle!?" cried Elizabeth as she started out of her chair.

As she reached the door Hannah came in, announcing William's arrival.

"I hope this is not a bad..." started William.

"You must excuse me," said Elizabeth, her voice choked by tears, "I must find my uncle this moment, on business that cannot be delayed."

"Good Good! What is the matter?" cried William.

"I..."

"You are not well. Let me... or the servant go for your uncle."

"No, I must."

"Come, I insist," said William as he lead Elizabeth to her chair and ordered the servant to fetch Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner.

"Shall I call a doctor? Indeed, you look very ill."

"No. I am well, I am well! I am only distressed by some dreadful news which I have just received from Longbourn," said Elizabeth as she broke down into tears.

William got down on his knees and put his arms around his sobbing wife. He could think of nothing to say that would bring her comfort so he just soothed her with little kisses.

"I'm sorry," she muttered wiping her eyes and pulling away from her.

"No, no," William said as he brushed a curl away from her face.

"I have just received a letter from, Jane, with such dreadful news. It cannot be concealed!... My youngest sister has left all her friends... has eloped... has thrown herself into the power of... Mr. Wickham... You know him too well to doubt the rest," William stood up and walked towards the end of the room, "She has no money... Nothing that can tempt him! I have not the smallest hope. She is lost forever and our whole family must partake in her ruin and disgrace."

"I am grieved... Shocked, but is it certain. Absolutely certain."

"Yes. They were traced as far as London, but not beyond. They are certainly not gone to Scotland. My father has gone to London and Jane writes to beg my uncle's immediate assistance. I hope we shall leave within half an hour."

There was a silence, as each of them were lost in their own thoughts. William, turned from the window and said,

"I fear you have long been desiring my absence. I shall leave you now," he picked up his hat from the table.

"Oh... Thank you. Good-bye."

He turned around to look at her as he left the room, there was a sadness in his eyes. As the door closed behind him, Elizabeth whispered,

"I'm sorry."

Chapter 42

Posted on Monday, 28 June 1999

Three Weeks Later

Elizabeth sighed as the carriage, carrying Lydia and Wickham, drove out of sight. If she had wished to sound like her mother she could have said that the last weeks had been very trying on her nerves. Her mood had not improved over the last while, Elizabeth had found it very hard to part with Elise when the Gardiners returned to London, but there was really nothing to be done.

Her mother, once she found out that Lydia was to be married, had forgiven all and immediately started demanding that the newlyweds pay a visit at Longbourn. Mr. Bennet finally consented when he realized that there would be no peace, until he did invite them.

As the family walked back into the house they all separated. Mrs. Bennet went to her room to bemoan the loss of her favorite daughter. Mary went to her piano. Kitty set about trimming a bonnet, but soon lost interest. Mr. Bennet went to his Library for reflection on all that occurred, he vowed that if any of his other daughters would be foolish enough to undertake a marriage like Lydia's, or a Gretna Green marriage, he would disown her so fast she would hardly have time to pack!

Jane and Elizabeth went to Jane's room and talked, much as she wanted to, Elizabeth still kept everything that had happened in Derbyshire and before that a secret. She supposed it was impossible for her and William to ever have what they once did. If, and it was a large 'if', there was a chance he still loved her, how would they sort out all there differences. There seemed to be little chance of Mr. Bingley returning and that appeared to be the only way William could come to Meryton.

For the next several days Longbourn was fairly quiet. The family only met at mealtime and even then the conversation was not as it had been. Then, one day, Mrs. Phillips came to pay a visit. The news she brought carried a great deal of importance for some members of the Bennet family.

"Sister! Have you heard the news? Mr. Bingley is returning to Netherfield!"

Jane and Elizabeth, who happened to be in the room, glanced at one another as their mother went on,

"Oh, sister! This is wonderful news!" then thinking of the other attachment that she had thought was forming, Mrs. Bennet asked, "Has, Mr. Darcy come with him?"

"No, not that I have heard. I have only learned that Mr. Bingley is returning, though I do not see why Mr. Darcy would not accompany him! Lizzy, my dear, I would take it as a slight if he could have forgotten about you so soon! What can those two men be thinking? Leaving my two beautiful nieces like that without any hint of their return!"

Jane blushed. Elizabeth tried to hide her pain at the news that William had not come.

"Indeed! I am certain they were very much in love with my dear girls... and they have used them very ill! As you say, sister, leaving without any hint of when they would likely return was very cruel!"

It was at that moment that Mr. Bennet walked into the room, his wife saw this as a perfect opportunity to remind him to pay his respects to Mr. Bingley at the earliest convenience.

"Mr. Bingley, has returned then?"

"Mr. Bennet! How can you be so tiresome! If he had not returned how could you call on him!?"

"Did he bring his friend with him?"

"Mr. Darcy, you mean. Well, that gentleman has decided that we are not good enough, obviously. He did not come, I did think there was a chance with him and Lizzy! No doubt, he heard the rumors that were going around about them and wanted nothing to do with her! You see what you do, Lizzy!" cried Mrs. Bennet, she turned to her daughter and began lecturing, "You drive away every respectable young man! Mr. Collins, might have married you, had it not been for the rumor about your escapades at Netherfield! That same rumor drove Mr. Darcy away!"

"Mrs. Bennet, we cannot accuse our daughter of such things!" began Mr. Bennet, with a touch of anger in his voice, "I believe it a very good thing that Mr. Darcy does not return. He is a very undeserving young man... He is not as respectable as one might think. Mr. Darcy hides his true character behind a fine family name and a fortune!"

Elizabeth felt her cheeks turn an even deeper shade of red. She remembered painfully that her father still believed William to be the father of Bridget Howard's baby, therefore, it was likely he believed William had managed to pay Bridget's husband to marry her. Her father could not know that it was Wickham who was the father of Bridget's baby.

"Not respectable!" gasped Mrs. Bennet, "Whatever can you mean?" her eyes had a eager gleam in them, she just loved gossip and this may be the best piece of news in years.

"I do believe that the young man is a little generous in his affections," replied Mr. Bennet carefully.

"Oh," said his disappointed wife, "If you mean that Mr. Darcy has had a mistress in the past, I would demand that you name one young gentleman of his stature that hasn't!"

This proved to be too much for Elizabeth and without caring what her family would think, she jumped up from her chair and said passionately,

"He is not what you say he is! He is the best gentleman that ever breathed! Do not say such things about him, do not even think such things!"

"Elizabeth Bennet! That is no way to talk to your parents," screeched Mrs. Phillips.

"I was not just talking to my parents, Aunt! I was also talking to you!" yelled Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth," said Mr. Bennet quietly, his fury at being addressed in such a way showed through his calm face, "I don't want you to ever talk to me, or your mother, or your aunt in that tone of voice again. Now, if you would be so kind as to excuse yourself and come back when you have regained your composure."

Elizabeth was only too happy to oblige. She turned on her heel and left the room, Jane followed her, but she knew better than to ask Elizabeth what was bothering her.

It took Mrs. Bennet a few minutes to regain the use of her tongue and even then she was still surprised by the anger that had been directed at her. It was probably well, for all parties, that the visit ended not long after Elizabeth's outburst.

At dinner that evening no mention was made of the incident and for the days following. Elizabeth believed it was because her parents really had no idea how to approach her on the subject.

A Few Days Later

"Three days! Three days he has been in the neighborhood and still he shuns us! I say it is all your father's fault. He would not do his duty and call so you shall all end old maids!"

"You promised me last year that if I went to see him he would marry one of my daughters and it all came to nothing. I will not be sent on a fools errand again," said Mr. Bennet as he left the room.

Mrs. Bennet looked as if she would have liked to say something, but nothing intelligent came to mind.

Kitty who had been looking out the window suddenly cried, "Mama! I do believe he is here! There is someone else with him... Why... Its Mr. Darcy!"

"Kitty, I do believe you are right! Jane run and put on your blue gown! Lizzy... ahh... put your red gown on... It is lower cut that the others!"

Jane made to follow her mother's advice, but Elizabeth sat frozen in her chair.

"No!" cried Mrs. Bennet, grasping Jane's arm pushing her daughter back into her chair, "Sit up straight Jane! A man could go a long way before seeing a figure like yours. Lizzy! Pull your dress down a bit, what have I always told you about showing off your gifts!"

Kitty giggled behind her hand, as Jane and Elizabeth blushed.

Mrs. Bennet went on about what she would say to both gentleman until she heard Hil and the two gentlemen approaching.

Chapter 43

Posted on Saturday, 10 July 1999

"Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, Ma'am," said Hill as she showed the gentlemen into the room.

"Mr. Bingley! Mr. Darcy! How very good of you to call! Mr. Bennet would have paid his respects had it not been for... Oh well! It is very good to see you. I am delighted!"

Bingley took the seat opposite Mrs. Bennet, while William paused momentarily before taking the seat that was next to Elizabeth.

"Kitty, ring the bell for tea!" called Mrs. Bennet.

Elizabeth could hardly continue working on her needlepoint, all she could think of was William's closeness. Her hands trembled as she tried to imagine what his thoughts towards her were. She was very anxious to thank him for his kindness towards Lydia and to discover his motives for such an action. William was similarly distracted, he wanted so much to know what Elizabeth thought of him, he had so many questions... Did she really love him? Was Elise his? After the way the Gardiners had acted when Elise was in the room with them, his suspicions had been increased even more.

"A great many changes have taken place since you went away," Mrs. Bennet informed the gentlemen, "Miss. Lucas is married and settled. And one of my own daughters, indeed you must have heard of it. Indeed, you must have read it in the papers."

"Yes..." started Bingley.

"But it was not put in properly! It only said, 'Lately, George Wickham Esq. to Miss Lydia Bennet' without a syllable said about who her father was or where she lived or anything! And now they are gone to Newcastle, and there they are to stay, I don't know how long."

Elizabeth glanced at William, he was looking fairly uncomfortable at the mention of Wickham and Lydia's marriage. How must he feel about being brother-in-law to that man?

"How long do you intend to stay in the neighborhood on this visit, Mr. Bingley?" asked Elizabeth, her voice shaking slightly.

"Out plans are not yet firmly settled, but I hope we shall stay a couple of weeks. I hope, very much, that we shall stay a few weeks."

"Well! When you have killed all your own birds, Mr. Bingley. I beg you and Mr. Darcy will come and shoot as many as you please on Mr. Bennet's manor. I am sure he will be vastly happy to oblige you." Mrs. Bennet seemed to forget her husband's dislike of Mr. Darcy.

The visit did not last much longer, it was a relief in a way, but in other ways it was a disappointment. William went away, still unsure of Elizabeth's regard for him, after all that had changed since their meeting in Lambton, he could no longer be sure of her feelings.

Netherfield, Next Morning

"You tell me now, that she was in London all those months! And you concealed it from me!"

"Yes. I can only say it was an arrogant presumption based on a failure to recognize your true feelings, and Miss. Bennet's. I am truly sorry, Bingley, and I apologize," said William as he and his friend walked down the steps.

"You admit that you were in the wrong then?"

"Utterly and completely."

"Then, I have your blessing?" asked Bingley, already prepared to be lead my William.

"Do you need my blessing?"

"No, but I should like to know I have it all the same."

"Then go to it man!" said William and he climbed into his carriage, he knew it was cowardly to leave like this.

William really did not know if he could face Elizabeth. Besides, he did have business in London. His aunt had written him to ask that they meet with the solicitors and sort out his fortune, he had the feeling things may not be as easy as all that.

Chapter 44

One Week Later

Since, William's last visit, Jane and Bingley had become engaged. Elizabeth had hoped that this news would bring him to back to Netherfield, but she began to lose hope as each day passed. She then remembered that William's 28th birthday was on the 23 of September and that his fortune and Pemberley would truly be his on that day. What would happen when that day came? Would he come back to Meryton? Would he come to see her? How would she tell him that Elise was his?

"Mama! Lizzy! Come and look, the most enormous carriage has arrived!" cried Kitty as she rushed into the drawing room, pointing at the window.

Elizabeth and her mother rushed to the window, but they were not in time to see the occupant of the carriage. Elizabeth soon realized just who was paying a visit when she heard Hill say,

"If you please wait, I'll tell my mistress you're here."

"No! I will not wait! Is this the drawing room!?" Lady Catherine barked.

"Lady Catherine de Bourgh," announced Hill, before departing.

Lady Catherine moved to take a seat and sat perched there for a moment before saying to Elizabeth,

"That lady I suppose is your mother."

"Yes, Mama, this is Lady Catherine de Bourgh."

Lady Catherine nodded coldly, "And that I suppose is one of your sisters."

"Yes, Ma'am," replied Mrs. Bennet, finally finding her tongue, "She is my youngest girl but one. My youngest of all is lately married."

"You have a very small park here. And this must be a most inconvenient sitting room in the summer. Why the windows are full west!"

"Indeed they are, your ladyship, but we never sit in here after dinner..."

"Miss. Bennet," said Lady Catherine rising, "There seemed to be a prettyish little kind of wilderness on one side of your lawn. I should be glad to take a turn in it, if you would favor me with your company."

Elizabeth, though more that a little surprised and uneasy, accompanied Lady Catherine to the proposed destination. Once, the noble lady seemed pleased that no one would hear what she had so say, she began thus:

"You can be at no loss to understand the reason for my journey here."

"Indeed, you are mistaken. I cannot account for the honor of seeing you here."

"You ought to know, that I am not a women to be trifled with. But however insincere you choose to be you shall not find me so. A letter of a most alarming nature reached me two days ago." Lady Catherine rudely thrust the sheet of paper into Elizabeth's hands, "Read it!"

Glancing at Lady Catherine, who was pacing angrily, Elizabeth unfolded the paper with a sense of foreboding. The letter read:

To Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Newcastle,

15th of September

You may not remember me, indeed it has been many years since I have had the pleasure of being in your company. I do not like to write this, but my sense of duty towards my godfather's family cannot be overlooked.

I would have written sooner, but I thought I should be absolutely certain of these circumstances before I should write something that would be so slanderous to your nephew's name and to the name of my dearest sister-in-law.

During my stay in Hertfordshire last winter and sometime before that, I had observed your nephew, Mr. Darcy. I shall not detail how I came to these convictions I now hold, I will only tell you what I believe to be true. If you doubt me, I ask that you apply to them for an answer.

I do believe that Mr. Darcy's and Elizabeth's relationship is much more that just a common acquaintance. In fact I have reason to suppose them to be married, from certain rumors and the like I have come up with the following:

Four years ago, after your brother-in-law's premature demise, when your nephew went to Scotland I believe he fell in love with Elizabeth Bennet, as she was then. I have it on my wife's good authority that Elizabeth was at the same house, that I believe your nephew was. I will leave it up to you to decide what happened, I will only add that this house was only a few miles from Gretna Green. Due to the fact that his fortune was in your hands, your nephew (though I loathe to say it) cowardly asked his new bride to conceal the fact that they were married. How the next years passed, I know not, I only know what I observed and heard during my stay in Meryton at the same time as Mr. Darcy visited Netherfield with his friend.

It was rumored that while, Elizabeth's older sister, Jane had been ill at Netherfield and Elizabeth went there to nurse her. She, Elizabeth Bennet, (and I would not dare mention it unless necessity compelled me), spent a night in Mr. Darcy's room. I am not certain of this next particular, but it is my belief that a child was conceived that night. How my sister-in-law managed to conceal such a thing from her family, I am at a loss to discover.

I am very sorry that I was forced to bring this dreadful news to your attention.

Your humble servant,

George Wickham

Elizabeth's mind reeled from the shock she started at that name, wondering how he of all people could have ever found out. It took every bit of her resolve to conceal her surprise from Lady Catherine, and meet the woman's inquiring gaze with one of reserve.

"Now, I know this must be a scandalous falsehood! I instantly, after reading that letter, resolved in setting off for this place to make my sentiments known to you."

"If you believed it to be impossible," said Elizabeth coloring slightly, "I wonder you took the trouble of coming so far . What could your ladyship propose by it?"

"At once to insist on having such a report universally contradicted!"

"Your coming to Longbourn will be taken as a confirmation of this!"

"Miss. Bennet, this is not to be borne! Let me ask you this, has my nephew made you an offer of marriage?"

"Your ladyship has declared it to be impossible."

"It ought to be so! But your arts and allurements may have made him forget what he owes to himself and all the family. You may have drawn him in."

"If I had, I should be the last person to confess it."

"Miss. Bennet, I am almost the nearest relation he has, and I am entitled to know all his nearest concerns."

"But you are not entitled to know mine."

"Let me be rightly understood! This match, cannot take place, and I refuse to believe that it has taken place! Mr. Darcy is engaged to my daughter. Now what have you to say?"

"Only, that if he is so you can have no reason to suppose that he will make an offer to me, or that he is in fact married to me!"

Lady Catherine went on to describe the marriage that she and her sister had planned for Miss de Bourgh and William. Elizabeth came up with another pert reply that sent the lady into further distress. Finally, after Lady Catherine had insulted her beyond belief, Elizabeth begged to return to the house and turning on her heel did just that. Lady Catherine followed her spouting insults and the visit ended shortly.

Her ladyship went away as displeased as ever, if not more so. She was determined to see her nephew about the matter. First, she supposed she would have to sign those miserable papers that would give him every right to do what he wanted, no matter how it would harm him in the end. She was well aware that by the time she reached London everything she had always hoped for would be in shambles, yet she did pray that she could make her stubborn nephew see sense.

The lady turned to glare out the window as she remembered the letter written by her brother-in-law that had been read out to her, Fitzwilliam, and the rest of the family after his death. It had stated that if she wished to disinherit her nephew for any reason, it must be done before his 28th birthday. She would have to sign. There was no way she would reach London in time.

Chapter 45

Posted on Monday, 12 July 1999

September 26

The Bennet women were sitting in the drawing room when they heard the bell ring. Since this was the usual time for one of Bingley's calls they were not surprised by it. They were however, surprised when Hill announced Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy.

Elizabeth felt all the color drain from her face as she stood to greet the guests, she quickly glanced at William, only to find herself blushing when she realized that he was looking at her.

"It is very fine out. Shall we all walk into the village?" asked Bingley.

It was agreed, after some short moments that Bingley, Jane, William, Elizabeth, and Kitty would go. Once the party set out Jane and Bingley walked ahead of the other three, it was obvious that they wished to be alone. The other group walked in silence, they knew not what to say to each other.

Kitty asked Elizabeth if she might call on Maria Lucas. Elizabeth consented, as this may give her a chance to talk with William. When she turned from watching her sister depart, Elizabeth became aware that William was watching her, but he was unwilling to say anything. It was, therefor, up to her to start any conversation, she began with a slightly shaky voice.

"I can go no longer, sir, without thanking you for your kindness to my poor sister. Ever since I have known of it I have been most anxious to tell you how grateful I am. You must not blame my aunt for telling me, Lydia betrayed it first. Then I could not rest until I knew everything. Let me thank you, on behalf of all my family, since they do not know to whom they are indebted."

William was shocked at being addressed thus, he answered slowly, "If you will thank me, let it be for yourself alone. Your family owes me nothing, as much as I respect them, I believe, I thought only of you..." Stopping in his walk, he turned to her and said, "You are too generous to trifle with me. If your feelings are what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections are unchanged. Please, tell me if I was imagining your regard for me at Pemberley."

Elizabeth was at first unable to speak, she was just content to know that he still loved her, finally she said, "I'm ashamed to remember what I said in April, you deserved none of it! You did not imagine my feelings at Pemberley, I do love you. You cannot know how much I regret my words to you at Hunsford."

"That makes two of us Dearest Loveliest Elizabeth," said William gently.

Looking at him she said quietly, "William, anything that you said to me was deserved. How I could have ever doubted your loyalty and trusted him over you, I don't know. I should have tried to speak with you, instead of behaving like a child!"

"That doesn't matter now. It is in the past... Elizabeth, speaking of children, what happened to the child I know you were carrying?" William asked that question with dread, lest Elise was truly the Gardiners and something had happened to his baby.

"You have met our child, our daughter, William. Elise Gardiner, is really Elise Anne Darcy. I did name her as you wished, after her mother and grandmother."

William let out the breath he had been holding, in a laugh. He turned and gathered Elizabeth in his arms, "I knew she was ours when I first saw her!" Then without further delay he kissed her like he had wanted to, ever since he had observed her at Pemberley holding their child.

When they finally parted William said, "Elise Darcy sounds perfect... Elizabeth, do the Gardiners know the truth about Elise?"

"I'm glad you like her name and yes, my aunt and uncle know the truth. They lived in constant hope that we would forgive and forget. They will be very pleased to learn that we have sorted out our problems, though, they will be sad to part with Elise."

"It is understandable that they would feel that way! After all, our daughter is as captivating as her mother."

"William, really."

"Oh, am I forbidden to remark on the beauty of my wife and daughter?"

"No, but you should not do so too often, or we may become quite conceited!"

William laughed, then stopping he said soberly, "What shall we say to your father? After what has happened we cannot marry again, otherwise we would not be able to accept Elise as our own, at least not without raising a lot of speculation."

"William, we will have to tell my father the truth..." Elizabeth turned pale at the idea.

"What is the matter?"

"Dear, my father... Papa... He still thinks that you are the father of Bridget's baby. He does not know the truth. Not only that, after what happened with Lydia and Wickham, I do believe he has begun to doubt his ability as a father. If he finds out that I had a Gretna Green marriage and that I have a baby, he will certainly not take it well."

"This is a great problem... But there is no way around the truth, Elizabeth. He will find out sooner of later. I think it is better that he find out sooner."

"I think you must be right. Shall we walk back and talk with him?"

"Yes, but Elizabeth you do not have to come see your father with me."

"No, yet I must. I know he will not take this news lightly."

William offered Elizabeth his arm, they turned and walked back to Longbourn. There was not much conversation between the two, both were thinking of the interview ahead of them.

As William and Elizabeth entered the house they looked reassuringly at one another, before discarding their outside garments. Walking to the Library door, Elizabeth knocked tentatively.

"Come in!" called Mr. Bennet.

"Ah! Elizabeth... and Mr. Darcy. What do you want to see me about?"

"A matter of some importance, sir," replied William.

"And what might that be?"

Glancing once more at one another, William continued:

"The attachment between your daughter and myself."

"The attachment between you and Lizzy! What can you be speaking of, man!?"

"Just that, Papa, an attachment, between myself and... William."

"What nature is this attachment?" spoke Mr. Bennet, disdainfully.

"Sir, I know what I will say next will come as a great shock, yet I hope you can forgive us."

Mr. Bennet's worry increased greatly. Knowing what Mr. Howard had told him about this young 'gentleman's' behavior, this conversation was taking a frightening direction.

"I will see what I feel when you tell me what is going on?"

"I will speak plainly, then. For the last four years your daughter and I have been secretly married. Though, I am sorry to say it, we were married secretly in Gretna Green. The marriage had to remain secret, since my aunt would have likely disapproved and then disinherited me."

William and Elizabeth waited for the shock of these words to be digested by Mr. Bennet.

"Married!" he yelled, jumping up from his chair, "This is cannot be! I will not allow it!"

"Papa, you have no choice. You are unable to change the fact that we are, indeed, married."

"Elizabeth Bennet! Do you know what sort of man you have married!?"

"Yes, a gentle, honorable, and kind man."

"Really, do you know of his relationship with Bridget Howard, as was!?"

"Yes, every detail. He was not to blame for anything. It was all her doing... and the reason that she had to marry is not William's. Her baby is in fact your other son-in-law's."

"I will never address that son of a bi..."

"Papa!"

"Very well, I will never address that man as my son-in-law, nor, if you continue to act in this foolish, nay, stupid manner, will I own that you are my daughter. I don't care what you say, I believe this man has laid the blame at Wickham's door."

"Mr. Bennet. I understand..." began William.

"You just keep quiet! I never want to hear a bloody word out of your lying mouth!" barked Mr. Bennet at William.

This was, obviously, not a good time to tell Mr. Bennet that he was a grandfather.

"Papa. I am truly sorry that you see things like this, but nothing you say can change the fact that William and I are married and that we will stay married, 'until death do us part'."

"Well, if that is the way you feel about it, you may pack whatever clothes and such that you require. I'm sure he will present you with a wardrobe more befitting to his jezebel of a wife! Now, get out of this house and my sight."

"We shall gladly remove ourselves from your company and I insist that on no occasion to you dare call my wife what you just have!" growled William before leading his almost sobbing wife from the room.

When the door closed behind them they realized that there were others who had heard most of their argument with Mr. Bennet. Jane and Bingley stood in a stunned silence outside the door.

"Lizzy," cried Jane, "Is it true? Are you and Mr. Darcy married?"

"Yes," Elizabeth choked out as Jane embraced her crying sister and now looked at her brother-in-law.

Bingley merely starred in amazement at his friend, as many missing pieces of the puzzle fell into place.

"Jane, you will have no further contact with your sister. When you are a married woman I cannot control whether you speak to her or not," ordered Mr. Bennet as he came out of the Library, "And, Mr. Bingley, if you wish to marry my daughter, you will not welcome these two under your roof until, as I told Jane, you are married."

"I assure you," said William, "That Netherfield is too close to you for our enjoyment and we would not want to cost Bingley and Miss. Bennet any pain!"

"Good, now I believe I told you get out of my house," Mr. Bennet said menacingly.

"Indeed, you did."

In ten minutes William and Elizabeth left Longbourn, without anyone but Mr. Bennet, Jane, or Bingley knowing they had gone. In another hour, after they had stopped off at Netherfield, they were on the road to London.

That evening Mr. Bennet told the rest of the family the truth. Mrs. Bennet was angry at him for throwing his daughter out of the house and insisted on having a fit of nerves, while saying who she would call on and tell the news that her daughter was married. Kitty was stunned into silence and could hardly wait to write and tell Lydia what had happened. Mary, was tempted to quote something, but she had enough sense to realize her father would not welcome any such thing. Jane was very quiet. She feared that her father may forbid her to marry Charles, even if she did not write to Lizzy until she was married. Charles considered writing to his friend, then he thought that it may upset his future sister-in-law, so he too would wait until he had married.

Epilogue

Posted on Friday, 16 July 1999

The Wickham's Discussion

"Who would have thought it!?" cried Lydia, giggling.

"Who, indeed?" snarled Wickham into a wine glass.

"I thought we were daring! I mean, they have been secretly married for years, not one of us ever suspected a thing. Can you believe it? We who behaved just as they are still accepted in the family, but Lizzy is disowned! Oh! What a fine joke it is!... George?"

*snore... splutter*

"Fine! Be like that!"

How Caroline Took the News

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!"

The Hurst's Consider the News

"Can you believe it, Mr. Hurst?"

"More wine!"

"They were actually married for 4 years!"

*gulp* "More wine!"

"Think of it! They actually had a baby!"

*hiccup* "More wine!"

"Who would have thought!"

*snore*

Lady Catherine - Most Exceedingly Displeased

"Brother, did I tell you of Lady Metcalfe's calling on me yesterday?"

"No, sister," the Earl rolled his eyes at his wife.

"Well, that woman the audacity to come and 'condole with me on the grievous behavior of my nephew, Darcy', those were her words. She sounded like that toad of a clergyman of mine!"

"Indeed," remarked the Countess, "I don't know why she should say such a thing. William's behavior is never anything but the best and his wife and daughter are such charming creatures!"

"Helen! His wife is an absolute minx! And his daughter, as far as I'm concerned, is illegitimate. How can they say they are really married when the marriage ceremony took place in Gretna Green."

"Sister, Elizabeth and Elise are very dear, though you have disowned them we have welcomed them into the family!"

"And a dreadful mistake that was, brother!"

Anne's Thanks

'Thank you, Elizabeth Bennet Darcy! My mother will never again dream of my marrying Cousin Darcy!'

Georgiana's Thoughts'

'If I had to write down my happiness four sides of paper would not be enough!'

The Colonel's Exclamation

"It is about time! That is all I can say!"

Mr. Collins Worries

'What will Lady Catherine say?'

Charlotte's Congratulation

'Very well, done, Lizzy!'

Sir William's Support

"Good! Good! Capital! Capital!"

Lady Lucas's & Mrs. Long's Shared Thought

'Harumph!'

The Bingley's & Darcy's Reunion

Mr. Bennet had forbidden Jane to go to London for her wedding clothes and the Gardiners had not been invited to the wedding when they admitted to knowing that the couple had been married, they did not admit that there was a child. As William and Elizabeth were a touchy subject, Elise was out of the question.

A day after the wedding Jane and Charles made their way to London. They had already decided to start looking for another place to live, Longbourn, its master (who remained in a foul mood) and its mistress, were a tad too close to Netherfield.

The carriage drew up at the Darcy Townhouse and the couple got out. As they stood in the front hall, Georgiana came from the music room and exclaimed excitedly,

"Charles! How are you?" Georgiana then saw Jane and found herself a little shy.

"I'm very well, Georgiana. This is my wife, Jane. I am sure you know I married Elizabeth's sister."

"Of course. Lizzy and William will be delighted to see you... and you just have to see Elise!"

"Elise?" Jane and Charles asked in confusion.

"Why yes... Oh! You did not know, well you must come to the sitting room. Barns, that will be all," she told the servant and led the newlyweds to the room.

"Lizzy! William! Look at who has come so shortly after their wedding to see us!"

The reunion took place with much happiness on all sides.

"Lizzy... Who is 'Elise'? Your sister-in-law said we must she her."

"Jane... Elise is William's and mine daughter."

As if on cue, Elise started gurgling from the bassinet that was placed, not too close and not too far, from the fireplace. Once Jane and Charles had met the Darcy's bundle of joy, they immediately fell in love with their charming niece. The Darcy's were asked and the Bingley's were told how they met and how they had kept Elise a secret.

Elizabeth soon asked after all the family, her father included. Though, her husband was far from forgiving her father for his harsh words to herself, she still loved her father and wanted to know how he was.

"Mama, Mary, and Kitty, are not changed... Papa... Papa, is still not ready to forgive you I'm afraid."

"I had not expected him too," replied Elizabeth sadly.

"Lizzy, I do believe that none of them know of Elise!" exclaimed Jane.

"That would not come as a surprise," stated William, seeing Elizabeth was no longer in a talkative mood, "We never mentioned her to your father and the Gardiners informed us that they concealed the fact she existed."

On A Serious Note - 6 Months Later

Mr. Bennet had started to regret his harsh words to Elizabeth and her husband. He knew that Jane and Charles had gone to see them very shortly after their wedding. One day when his wife had convinced him to come along on a visit to Netherfield, he discreetly asked Jane and Charles for their forgiveness in telling them not to have any contact with the Darcys. He also asked to be informed when the Darcys might come to Netherfield. Jane and Charles still neglected to inform him of Elise, they believed it would be best coming from the Darcys, themselves.

Two months later, Mr. Bennet received a letter from Jane:

"Papa,

Fitzwilliam and Lizzy arrive tomorrow. Come the following day at breakfast. Charles and I will leave you alone with them, to make amends.

Love,

Jane"

The following morning, Mr. Bennet arrived. He was announced and an uneasy silence descended on the room. Jane and Charles quietly left, but not before William sent his friend a look that showed he did not like being set up.

Elizabeth struggled to stand up and when she succeeded, Mr. Bennet saw that his daughter was with child. It was at that moment that the nursemaid entered the room with Elise. William quickly took his daughter and dismissed the servant.

The silence continued, only to be interrupted by Elise's noise that proved she was very unaware of the result she was having on her grandfather.

"Father?" asked Elizabeth quietly, wondering why, her father of all people, should be there.

"I'm sorry, Elizabeth. I know that such a small word cannot take away the hurt I gave you, but I hope that you can find it in your heart to forgive me. You and your husband, my reaction was very wrong, I should have been glad that you were telling me the truth, though I wish you could have trusted me with it from the start."

Elizabeth, left her husband's side to approach her father. She took his hand and said quietly, "Papa. I forgive you... You do not know how many times I wished I could have told you."

Mr. Bennet sighed as he embraced his daughter.

"William," said Elizabeth as she stepped back from her father and turned to look at her husband, "Please?"

William could never refuse his wife anything, and the small word, 'please', carried a lot of meaning. Elizabeth was asking him to forgive her father as she had done. His face softened as he walked to his father-in-law.

"Sir, I forgive you. Had I been in your shoes I am certain I would not have acted any differently."

With a small smile, Mr. Bennet extended his hand and William took it as an offering of piece.

"Who is this young lady?" he asked indicating Elise.

"She is your granddaughter, Papa. Her name is, Elise."

"She looks like you, Lizzy. May I hold her?" he asked of William.

"By all means."

Mr. Bennet, having had five daughters of his own realized that Elise was likely a year old. He was not going to ask for that explanation, but the thought that had occurred to him over a year ago, when he had wondered at a difference in Elizabeth, now made sense... His daughter had been expecting.

"Well, lets see how your mother will take the news that she is a grandmother," said Mr. Bennet, his old sense of humor returning.

An hour later Mrs. Bennet and her other two daughters arrived at Netherfield, quite unaware of the surprise awaiting them. They immediately fell in love with Elise, exclaimed at the coming arrival of the Darcy's second baby, and congratulated Jane and Charles on the upcoming birth of their first child. During the short day the families spent together at Netherfield, William had discovered many a shared interest with Mr. Bennet, they would have been great friends, but Fate had other plans.

Later that night, the night that all fences had been mended between Mr. Bennet and his family, he quietly passed away in his sleep. He would never meet the four grandchildren Jane and Charles gave him, the other five grandchildren the Darcy's produced, or the six children of the Wickham's. In spite of all this he died a happy man, knowing that all was well between him and the family members that mattered most. He was greatly missed by all who knew him, even by his son-in-law, William, who had despised the words that had been thrown at his beloved wife.

FINIS

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