For Her Family

By Lori T

Section I, Next Section

Chapter One

Posted on Wednesday, 29 December 2004

When they were gone, Elizabeth, as if intending to exasperate herself as much as possible against Mr. Darcy, chose for her employment the examination of all the letters which Jane had written to her since her being in Kent. They contained no actual complaint, nor were there any revival of past occurrences, or any communication of present suffering. But in all, and in almost every line of each, there was a want of that cheerfulness which had been used to characterize her style, and which, proceeding from the serenity of a mind at ease with itself, and kindly disposed towards every one, had been scarcely ever clouded.

Elizabeth noticed every sentence conveying the idea of uneasiness with an attention which it had hardly received on the first perusal. Mr. Darcy's shameful boast of what misery he had been able to inflict gave her a keener sense of her sister's sufferings. It was some consolation to think that his visit to Rosings was to end on the day after the next, and a still greater that in less than a fortnight she should herself be with Jane again, and enabled to contribute to the recovery of her spirits by all that affection could do.

She could not think of Darcy's leaving Kent without remembering that his cousin was to go with him; but Colonel Fitzwilliam had made it clear that he had no intentions at all, and agreeable as he was, she did not mean to be unhappy about him.

While settling this point, she was suddenly roused by the sound of the door bell, and her spirits were a little fluttered by the idea of its being Colonel Fitzwilliam himself, who had once before called late in the evening, and might now come to enquire particularly after her. It was not Colonel Fitzwilliam. A servant entered and informed Elizabeth that an express had been delivered for her. She hurriedly took the letter from the servant and examined it. It was from Jane although her writing was hurried, not in her usual elegant hand. She was surprised to hear from Jane so soon again but it was a pleasant surprise for she missed her sister dearly. She thanked the servant whom left her then.

"Oh Jane, dearest Jane, I hope that your spirits are better," she thought opening the binding on the envelope. But Jane was not better, dreadful things were contained within.

My dearest Lizzy,

I am writing you to request that you come home as soon as can be arranged. Papa has taken seriously ill, in truth, I regret to tell you we feel that death is near. Monday, Papa was in his library all day. When he did not appear for dinner, Hill went to fetch him and found him unconscious in his chair. Mr. Jones has informed us that he suffered a stroke. While he is still unconscious, Mr. Jones assures us that he is not suffering.

"Oh God, not Papa, I must get home" Elizabeth thought as she returned to the letter, tears forming in her eyes.

Mama has taken to her room in hysterics about what will happen to us all. I hope that you will not think unkindly of me but I feel that she has been most unthoughtful to us both. She continually goes on about you, Lizzy. 'If only Elizabeth had married Mr. Collins, we would all be taken care of. Unthoughtful girl, always thinking of herself.' I hope that you will not let this upset you but I thought it best to warn you before you returned home.

She is also unkind to me, blaming me for not marrying Mr. Bingley. She insists that I must have done something to make him leave Netherfield! It is almost more than I can bear. If she only knew how much this hurts me, it must be her nerves for she would never grievously offend her children. I am sure of that.

I must go my dearest sister for I must relieve Kitty as Papa's bedside. I hope to see you by the week end.

Lovingly,
Jane

"Oh dear, I must arrange to get home. I must write immediately to my uncle Gardiner to see if he can send his servant to meet me on the next coach." Elizabeth paced the room excitedly, tears streaming down her face. She determined, she must go to Rosings to inform the Collinses of this important news since she would need their help in arranging for the trip home. "Yes, I must go, I must." She was headed for the door when the servant entered. She had been too distracted to hear the second knock on the door.

"If you please mum, you have a visitor, Mr. Darcy." She stepped aside to reveal the man himself with what could only be described as a shocked look on his face.

Chapter Two

Posted on Wednesday, 29 December 2004

In a hurried manner Darcy immediately began an enquiry after her health, imputing his visit to a wish of hearing that she were better but he could see that she was decidedly not so. Her pale face and impetuous manner made him start, and before he could recover himself enough to speak, she, in whose mind every idea was superseded by her father's situation, hastily exclaimed, ``I beg your pardon, but I must leave you. I must find Mr. Collins this moment, on business that cannot be delayed; I have not a moment to lose.''

``Good God! What is the matter?'' cried he, with more feeling than politeness; then recollecting himself, ``I will not detain you a minute, but let me, or let the servant, go after Mr. and Mrs. Collins. You are not well enough -- you cannot go yourself.''

Elizabeth hesitated, but her knees trembled under her, and she felt how little would be gained by her attempting to pursue them. Calling back the servant, therefore, she commissioned her, though in so breathless an accent as made her almost unintelligible, to fetch her master and mistress home instantly.

On her quitting the room, Elizabeth sat down, unable to support herself, and looking so miserably ill that it was impossible for Darcy to leave her, or to refrain from saying, in a tone of gentleness and commiseration, ``Let me call your maid. Is there nothing you could take, to give you present relief? - A glass of wine - shall I get you one? You are very ill.''

``No, I thank you;'' she replied, endeavoring to recover herself. ``There is nothing the matter with me. I am quite well. I am only distressed by some dreadful news which I have just received from Longbourn.''

She burst into tears as she alluded to it, and for a few minutes could not speak another word. Darcy, in wretched suspense, could only say something indistinctly of his concern, and observe her in compassionate silence. At length, she spoke again. ``I have just had a letter from Jane, with such dreadful news. My father has taken seriously ill. He is probably near death. I must get home immediately."

Darcy was deeply saddened by hearing this. He was not particularly attached to Mr. Bennet, in fact, he was at times alarmed at Mr. Bennet's behavior towards his wife. However, he knew that the bond between Elizabeth and her father was very great and that she would truly suffer at his loss.

"I am truly sorry. Miss Bennet, I know how much your father means to you because your closeness reminds me of my relationship with my own father. I will do whatever is in my power to assist you on your journey home. Can you possibly be ready by daybreak?"

"Of course, but what good will that do?"

"I will secure the use of one of Lady Catherine's carriages and I will personally escort you and Miss Lucas back to Longbourn."

Elizabeth was shocked at this, this great kindness from a man she hardly knew but detested. "Mr. Darcy, I thank you for your kindness but I don't think that would be proper. For two young ladies to travel with an unmarried man who is a relation to neither would be unthinkable."

Darcy looked distracted and said, "Right, of course, forgive me. I will still arrange for Lady Catherine's carriage and for Mr. and Mrs. Collins to attend you. Would that be acceptable?"

Elizabeth was grateful for this. She thanked him and was relieved to know that she would be able to leave at first light. If she had to write her Uncle Gardiner, it would have taken several days to return home. This way, she would see her father soon, hopefully soon enough.

"Mr. Darcy, I don't know how to thank you - mere words seem insufficient to convey what this means to me. If you would please excuse me; however, it seems that I have to collect myself and prepare to leave."

Darcy looked disappointed at her words and she could not understand why. He could no longer resist and at last spoke, "Please Miss Bennet, there is something that I would like to say to you."

He sat down for a few moments, and then getting up, walked about the room. Elizabeth was surprised, but said not a word. After a silence of several minutes, he came towards her in an agitated manner, and thus began,

``In vain have I struggled. It will not do. Please forgive my poor timing Miss Bennet. I'm afraid that if I don't say this now, I may never get the chance again. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.''

Elizabeth's astonishment was beyond expression. She stared, colored, doubted, and was silent. This he considered sufficient encouragement, and the avowal of all that he felt and had long felt for her immediately followed. He spoke well but mentioned that he family would disapprove of the connection but, under the present circumstances, his feelings must be regarded.

In spite of her deeply-rooted dislike, she could not be insensible to the compliment of such a man's affection as well as the great kindness he just performed. He concluded with representing to her the strength of that attachment which, in spite of all his endeavors, he had found impossible to conquer; and with expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her acceptance of his hand. As he said this, she could easily see that he had no doubt of a favorable answer. He _spoke_ of apprehension and anxiety, but his countenance expressed real security. Such a circumstance could only exasperate farther, and when he ceased, the color rose into her cheeks, and she said,

"Mr. Darcy, I, that is I, never imagined" Elizabeth searched for words but her thoughts were distracted. She could only think of her repulsion of him. Despite his kindness to her, she did not and felt she could not love him. But then she thought of Jane's letter - what would become of them should father die. Mr. Collins could legally turn them out as soon as he wished. Mr. Darcy was rich and could provide for her family. But no, she hated him, she had insulted her even while professing his love for her.

She turned and looked at him and simply said, "Yes, Mr. Darcy, I will marry you." She turned away from him then and burst into tears. "For my family..." she muttered under her breath.

Chapter Three

Posted on Wednesday, 29 December 2004

Darcy's happiness which this reply produced, was such as he had probably never felt before; and he expressed himself on the occasion as sensibly and as warmly as a man violently in love can be supposed to do. Had Elizabeth been able to encounter his eye, she might have seen how well the expression of heartfelt delight, diffused over his face, became him.

But she did not see for her sobbing continued. He was pulled from his state of euphoria by the sounds of her sobs. Realizing what a selfish creature he was being, he moved across the room towards her and put his hands on her arms in an attempt to comfort her. He thought that her discomfort must be for her father. "Of course, darling," he stopped, smiled slightly for the gratification that she was truly to be his, "will you be well if I leave you. Truly it pains me to leave you in such distress but I think that I will be doing more for you by leaving."

Elizabeth felt the truth of this statement although its meaning was different to him. "I will return myself to Rosings and arrange anything. I will travel to London to Mr. Bingley's asking him to travel with Colonel Fitzwilliam and myself to Netherfield." At this Elizabeth looked at him for the first time since agreeing to be his wife. "I will be at Netherfield by week's end to speak to your father for his consent."

"Don't worry Elizabeth," pausing and reflecting on his being able to call her by her name, "he shall recover. He must." She smiled a small smile of hope.

"I, of course, will not announce to anyone our engagement until I have spoken to your father. I ask your permission though to make Charles and Colonel Fitzwilliam aware of it. It maybe be necessary to persuade them of the urgency with which we need to travel to Netherfield. Have I your consent my dearest?"

Elizabeth shuddered at the sound of his voice calling her 'his dearest,' and yet she was touched. Not only by his sweetness and tenderness, but even more by his strength. Never in her life had she needed to lean on anyone, yet here, in her darkest hour was this man. He was deciding everything and she was relieved to feel much of the burden of her situation lifted from her.

"Yes, you may tell them if you feel it necessary," she said quietly allowing her sobbing to cease.

"I shall go now then and take care of everything. Rest assured, dearest Elizabeth, you will on the road at first light. Go, pack your bags. Mrs. Collins shall return home soon to assist. Good bye, my love." He took her hand into his and kissed it gently. With one last look into her eyes, he was gone.

Elizabeth was left to her thoughts now. She was to be Mr. Darcy's wife. She, who had always despised him, would now spend the rest of her life with him. It was too painful to reflect upon. She had to do it; there was no way around it. If Mr. Bennet died, she would be turned out with little money. She could be forced to take a governess position. That thought, while not unbearable, would not be the worst of the situation. What of her sister or even worse, her mother.

No, in succumbing to this proposal, she would be providing for all her family and she had to think of the greater good. Of course, there were no guarantees that Mr. Darcy would provide for them. A terrible thought entered her head. What if he turned them out? He had ignored his own father's wishes and denied Wickham his inheritance. If he could do that, he could easily forget about her family.

"I shall have to ascertain his intentions towards my family. But it will not matter if Papa recovers, for he will never give his consent. If Papa does not recover," she thought as another stray tear grazed her cheek, "Mama will be concerned enough about her situation to inquire if asked for her consent.

She realized that she had wasted a quarter of an hour in thought when there were things that needed attending to. She rose and proceeded upstairs to pack and prepare for tomorrow.

Chapter Four

Posted on Wednesday, 29 December 2004

Elizabeth was just finishing her trunk when she heard her friend Charlotte call to her from the stairs.

"Lizzy, Lizzy, may I come in?"

Elizabeth was already opening the door as this last statement was uttered. Charlotte was deeply affected by the sight before her. Her good friend, nay her best friend, had obviously been crying and for some time.

"Oh Lizzy, I came as soon as Mr. Darcy told me. The servant, Bessie, was not allowed to interrupt us at dinner. Lady Catherine forbade it. Although, Mr. Darcy came in before the meal was over and told me that you needed me at once. He then explained about your father." Charlotte, a true and loyal friend always also began to cry and embraced Lizzy. Lizzy could not withstand so much emotion with fortitude so joined her friend in a good cry.

Finally, they parted and Charlotte tried to comfort her friend the best that she could. "Lizzy, it is possible that Jane has exaggerated his illness? It is possible that your father will make a full recovery. There is that chance you know. Mr. Jones has said for years that old Mrs. Coneroy would die within three months. He was wrong there, wasn't he?"

Elizabeth could not answer for she was choked up with emotion. There was the possibility but before she could allow it, her friend proceeded.

"Now, we must get you packed. How will you travel home? Did Jane's letter provide any means?" Charlotte asked.

"No, Mr. Darcy said that he would take care of it all. He would procure one of Lady Catherine's carriages to take Maria, Mr. Collins, you and me to Longbourn. Did he not mention anything to you?"

Charlotte looked surprised but added, "No, but he was conversing with Mr. Collins as I left. He seemed to think it urgent that I get home, which obviously was correct. I'm sorry Lizzy. that I wasn't here when you received the letter. What brought Mr. Darcy here?"

Elizabeth considered opening her heart to her friend but recollected that it was she and her husband that were her father's heirs. She thought that if she told Charlotte her reasoning for accepting Mr. Darcy, her friend would feel guilty for nothing could acquit of the outcome of the entail. "I know not, I had already read the letter when he arrived and our conversation was all based on it I'm afraid."

Her friend had a smirk of realization on her face but said nothing. Elizabeth was glad of it. Charlotte would know eventually but not tonight. Her thoughts were too painful and there was work to be done.

Mr. Collins was soon heard calling for his wife. "My dear, we must pack immediately for we travel at first light to Hertfordshire! Colonel Fitzwilliam will see us to Bromley where we will switch from one of Lady Catherine's carriages; I say one for she has many, to the Post. He will take care of all our passages on behalf of Mr. Darcy. Such condescension on his part, such care to detail for people with whom he is so wholly unconnected."

"Mr. Collins, please!" interjected his wife.

"Forgive me my dear. We must ready ourselves though. The Colonel will be here at first light!" He turned and left the room while shouting orders to the servants. Charlotte started to follow but then turned to her friend.

"Elizabeth, I shall go and leave you now unless you want me to stay. I can have the servants pack my things."

"No, Charlotte, I thank you but I am almost done myself and I need to try and rest for the long journey."

Charlotte smiled at her, a knowing smile, and turned and left Elizabeth to her thoughts.

"He must truly care for me to go to such trouble. Well, for that I am grateful. It is comforting to know that he is not all bad." Elizabeth closed her trunk and notified the servants that it was ready to take down. She changed her garments and slid quietly into her bed. There were no preoccupations now to busy her thoughts. All she could think of was the state of her father and her agreement with Mr. Darcy. She felt that unless Mr. Bennet recovered she would never know what it was to be happy again. With this sad thought, she drifted to sleep.

Chapter Five

Posted on Saturday, 1 January 2005

Elizabeth was ready before the sun rose for she had slept a restless sleep. She dreamt that she would not make it home in time, and it made her all the more anxious to be on the road for home. Mr. and Mrs. Collins were surprised when they first stirred to find Lizzy waiting fully prepared in the foyer. They, along with Maria, were bringing their bags down when two gentlemen arrived with a carriage.

"My dear, my dear, they are here and we have not even eaten breakfast yet!" Mr. Collins said. He then turned to his servant and asked that the baggage be taken out to the carriage.

The two gentlemen were shown in by the housekeeper. Mr. Darcy went to Elizabeth while the Colonel went to see what assistance he could be loading the carriage. "Good morning, my dearest," Mr. Darcy said in a low tone so as not to be overheard, "I hope you slept well?"

The thought of her night's sleep brought back the thoughts which had kept her up. She, with tears welling up, told him how she had not. Before another word was uttered, he took her hand in his and gave her reassurances that all would be fine. "Yes, yes," she thought, "I must think positively."

"Now, I hate to see you go my love but I think you must. Remember, I will see you soon for I will be at Netherfield in days. I hope that your journey will be as comfortable as possible. Colonel Fitzwilliam will journey with you to Bromley and then meet me in London. I hope that is agreeable?"

"Yes, thank you sir for all your assistance, it is more than I hoped for. You have no idea what it means to me."

"Elizabeth, I would do anything for you." The sentiment of such a statement from such a man produced a sense of wonder in her. She truly felt gratitude and knew not how she would have handled this day if he had not been able to get her on the road. "But, let's get you all settled in the carriage," said loud enough for all to hear.

Mr. Collins looked up "But sir, we not have eaten" and he stopped. The look the man produced was enough to put the clergyman in silence for he would not dare go against the wishes of Mr. Darcy and through him, his patroness Lady Catherine. He proceeded with his wife to the carriage and dared not speak again. For Mr. Darcy was a man of such stature that Mr. Collins would never risk offending.

Mr. Darcy had Elizabeth's hand in his arm. "I would kiss you goodbye but I'm afraid your cousin the clergyman would not approve unless we betray our secret. So I will just say good bye my love, until the week's end." He opened the carriage door and handed her up.

"I thank you again sir. Your kindness is an example for everyone." She smiled at him which generated the same in him. The look on his face was full of love and great happiness. Elizabeth saw him in a whole new light. In the length of their acquaintance, she had never seen him look as handsome as he did now. There was none of his previous harshness or disdain in his looks, just complaisance. He bowed slightly and offered his wishes to the Collinses and Miss Lucas for a quick and safe trip.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, the last to approach the carriage, was stopped by his cousin. "Take care of her, Fitzwilliam, she is everything to me."

"Don't worry cousin, you have my word. I never thought I would see this day when you would be engaged, I thought no woman would be able to tempt you! But I have to say the woman that you chose is exquisite. Had fortune not been a factor, I might have challenged you for her, dear cousin. But, as it is, I will be only too happy to perform this commission for you. I shall see you in London in a few days." The gentlemen shook hands and Mr. Darcy turned and mounted his horse. The colonel spoke a word to the driver and joined the rest of the party in the carriage. He tapped his walking stick twice to the roof and the carriage started to pull away. Elizabeth felt herself drawn to the window. He was watching her leave with a look of sadness now on his face. She gave a small smile and watched until the carriage pulled her from his sight.

"How long until we reach Bromley, do you suppose?" Mr. Collins asked while nonchalantly rubbing his stomach. Mrs. Collins flashed him a look but in turning hit something large on the floor.

"What's this, my dear, did you put this in here?" Mrs. Collins asked her husband pulling up a large basket from the floor. "Why it is full of food! Sandwiches, scones, biscuits and drinks! And a note addressed to you Lizzy!" A look of excitement crossed the parson's face, not because of the note, but because his appetite would be gratified.

"Just a little something we brought from Rosings to make the journey more enjoyable. Miss Bennet, let me take this opportunity to say how I hope your father is well and I truly wish for your every happiness." The colonel said this with a smile so warm that Elizabeth knew he was aware of the agreement between her and Mr. Darcy and he seemed to greatly approve. He was a man of sense and reason; he had seemed to care for her before, would his allegiance to Darcy allow him to approve of her making a mistake? He knew Mr. Darcy better than anyone and seemed to rejoice under the circumstances. Maybe there was more to Mr. Darcy than she knew.

Her thoughts preoccupied her but she was drawn out by Maria saying, "I wonder who the note is from Lizzy?"

"Ah, the thoughtfulness of Lady Catherine. She takes such thought to details, first this basket and a note with her thoughts. She is an example to us all. Her own beloved nephew to travel with us on our journey and another to see us off! You should be grateful dear cousin for the attention that she pays to you!"

Elizabeth took the letter from Mrs. Collins and found it was not from the Aunt but from the nephew. It was short and in a neat hand said:

My dearest;

I know that we have just said goodbye but I must tell you that I'm sure that I already miss you. I hope enjoy this food on your journey. I was sure that you would not eat before you left Hunsford but your father will need your strength. Have a good journey my love.

Until I see you again,
FD

Elizabeth closed the letter and tucked it in her cloak. No one observed except Mrs. Collins who said nothing but could not keep a smile from her lips.

Chapter Six

Posted on Saturday, 1 January 2005

After the change to the post, Elizabeth, still quieted by the events of the last few days, allowed herself to drift off to some much needed sleep. Mr. Darcy had been right, she would have to take care of herself to keep her strength. She had forced herself to eat a sandwich while still in Lady Catherine's carriage. Now, their party was down to four with the Colonel having left to meet his cousin in London. Therefore, there was less conversation in the carriage and this allowed Elizabeth's slumber.

"Lizzy, Lizzy, we are in Meryton, wake up! Wake up!" She opened her eyes to see her friend looking at her earnestly. "We are here and there is a carriage waiting from Longbourn."

"Oh, thank goodness, I was hoping they would receive my express and the carriage would be here." Lizzy jumped up and alighted the carriage. Her bags were already being transferred to her family carriage.

"Go, Lizzy, we will notify my family that we have arrived and travel to Lucas Lodge. Please send me word of how your father is." Miss Lucas smiled as her friend. It was a hard situation for Mr. and Mrs. Collins were Mr. Bennet's beneficiaries. It could have been viewed as mercenary, her thoughts on Mr. Bennet's condition, but Elizabeth knew better. The tears in her friend's eyes were of true concern, not only for Mr. Bennet but for his daughters as well.

Elizabeth, now alone for the first time all day, could not believe that she would be seeing her father so soon. She felt all the more trepidations as the view of Longbourn came into sight. Her sister Jane came out of the house as she saw the carriage arriving. This sent chills down Elizabeth's back - would she do so if it were not urgent? Of course, she realized, she was being silly. Jane, her favorite sister, would always come to greet her on returning.

As the carriage slowed to a stop, Lizzy jumped down. "Jane, my dear, what news have you?" she said while the sisters embraced.

"I'm afraid, not much that was not in my letter. Papa has not regained consciousness but seems to be resting comfortably. Mr. Jones was here earlier and did not change his prognosis. Mama is in her room and Kitty sits with Papa now." The sisters entered the house and immediately went to the sick room. Kitty did not embrace her sister but simply moved out of her way. It was generally known in the family that Lizzy was her father's favorite and that she, in return, dearly loved her father.

Elizabeth was taken back at what was before her. Her beloved father was lying before her but yet it was not her father. His vigor was gone. He was pale, drawn, even sullen looking. It had been but a few weeks since she had seen him and the change in him struck her. She slid her hand into his, lowered her head, and silently cried.

Jane tried to remove her sister. "Come, you must eat something and let Mama know that you are home. Then you must rest for you have had a long journey today."

"I'm sorry Jane, but I can't leave Papa, at least not yet." Her sisters knew that they could not persuade her. They decided it was best to give her some time alone with their father and quietly left the room.

"Oh Papa, please don't leave us. If only you knew what I've done. I need you; we all need you." And there Lizzy stayed throughout the night until Jane, this time assisted by their sister Kitty, were able to convince Lizzy to leave her vigil. They had to promise though that they would get her if there was any change to report.

Before retiring, she stopped at her mother's door. She could her mother from the hall talking to Hill. "What will become of us? What about my nerves? Hill, fetch my smelling salts, hurry!" Lizzy continued down the hall to her room to rest.

Chapter Seven

Posted on Saturday, 1 January 2005

After a few hours slumber, Elizabeth readied herself to face her family. She left her chambers after dressing herself, for she felt she could not wait for her maid. When coming downstairs, she found her sisters assembled in the breakfast room. Jane, seeing her surprise at seeing them assembled, spoke first to her.

"Dear Lizzy, you are awake, come and eat with us. The doctor is now with Papa so you must wait to see him."

She took her usual seat next to her sister asking, "Mr. Jones has come to examine Father?"

"No, it is a different doctor, Dr. March. He came this morning from London; he is a specialist in strokes and he has come to see our father. Our dear Uncle Gardiner must have sent him." Jane, who for the first time since Lizzy returned, smiled and her sister could see that she was truly hopeful. "After you eat, you must go to our mother. She has been asking for you all morning."

"Ah yes, I suppose that I can not prolong our meeting any longer. I must confess, after your letter telling how upset she is with me, I have not been looking forward to meeting with her."

When she had eaten a few bites, she rose from the table and headed to her mother's chamber upstairs. "Mama, may I come in? It's me, Lizzy. I'm glad to be home. Is there anything that I can get you?"

"Well, Lizzy,'' said Mrs. Bennet, `` what do you think of this business with your poor father? What will become of us?" continued her mother soon afterwards, ``and so the Collinses live very comfortable, do they? Well, well, I only hope it will last. And what sort of table do they keep? Charlotte is an excellent manager, I dare say. If she is half as sharp as her mother, she is saving enough. There is nothing extravagant in their housekeeping, I dare say.''

``No, nothing at all.''

``A great deal of good management, depend upon it. Yes, yes. They will take care not to outrun their income. They will never be distressed for money. Well, much good may it do them! And so, I suppose, they often talk of having Longbourn when your father is dead. They look upon it quite as their own, I dare say, and are preparing right now for it to happen.''

``It was a subject which they could not mention before me.''

``No. It would have been strange if they had. But I make no doubt, they often talk of it between themselves. Well, if they can be easy with an estate that is not lawfully their own, so much the better. I should be ashamed of having one that was only entailed on me. And we shall all be out on the streets. If only you had married him!''

"Mama, please. It may not matter. Did you know that a special doctor is downstairs right now with Papa from London?

"No, but it is a hopeless matter, child. I have not a hope that your father will come back to me."

"No, you should have married Mr. Collins and Jane....what is your opinion now of this sad business of Jane's? For my part, I am determined never to speak of it again to anybody. I told my sister Philips so the other day. But I cannot find out that Jane saw any thing of Mr. Bingley in London. Well, he is a very undeserving young man -- and I do not suppose there is the least chance in the world of her ever getting him now. There is no talk of his coming to Netherfield again; and I have enquired of every body, too, who is likely to know.''

"Mama, Mr. Bingley is coming back to Netherfield and will be here by week's end."

``Oh, well! it is just as he chooses." Her mother continued, not hearing what her daughter had said, "nobody wants him to come. Though I shall always say that he used my daughter extremely ill; and if I was her, I would not have put up with it. Well, my comfort is, I am sure Jane will die of a broken heart, and then he will be sorry for what he has done.''

"Mama, Mr. Bingley will be back at Netherfield any day now." Her daughter said these words with more emphasis, not to be dramatic but in an attempt to make her mother understand.

"What Child? He is coming back? How do you know this?" Elizabeth felt uncomfortable now, for she would have to explain her knowledge of this.

"I had occasion to speak with his friends at Rosings Park and they informed me that Mr. Bingley would in all likelihood be arriving at Netherfield presently." It was not a lie, but she had not revealed any more to her mother than she had wanted to. She was relieved to see that her mother was so moved by the information that she asked no more questions.

"Oh Lizzy, if we can only get them together! It will be such a relief to have a daughter married!" It would be the answer to everything; they would not be destitute without Mr. Bennet. It was, moreover, such a promising thing for her younger daughters, as Jane's marrying so greatly must throw them in the way of other rich men; and lastly, it was so pleasant at her time of life to be able to consign her single daughters to the care of their sister, that she might not be obliged to go into company more than she liked.

With her mother still rambling about weddings and wedding clothes, Elizabeth left her mother to confide in Jane and hear what news the doctor had to provide.

Chapter Eight

Posted on Saturday, 1 January 2005

Elizabeth returned to the breakfast room to find a strange man conversing to her elder sister. "I am greatly concerned about his condition. He has no response on his right side and there is fluid in his lungs. I have told the staff that he must be propped up to an angle and moved twice daily." He stopped there noticing the young lady who had entered the room.

"Dr. March, this is my sister, Miss Elizabeth Bennet." The doctor smiled oddly, a familiar smile like he knew her.

"Ah, Miss Elizabeth, it is a pleasure to meet you. I have just been informing your sisters here about the condition of your father. I am very concerned but I think that this next week is critical."

"Critical, sir?"

"Yes, miss. I have given him medication to help with the anemia and hopefully to regain consciousness. But if the fluid in his lungs continues to build, I fear the worst."

The sisters gasped, shocked. Kitty began to cry but the doctor continued, "now there, there Miss. There is still hope and a little prayer never hurt. I'm staying at the Meryton Inn, if there is any change, send for me at once." He grabbed his cloak and hat and started for the door. "I will be back tomorrow by mid morning, until then ladies."

It was Kitty's turn to sit with their father so Elizabeth suggested to her elder sister that they take a walk around the grounds, that they both could us the fresh air. Jane was surprised that Lizzy was willing to leave their father but sensed that she wanted to talk to her and quickly agreed.

Elizabeth knew not where to begin. She wanted to tell her beloved sister everything but she could not find the words. She didn't want Jane to think that she was marrying Darcy just for her family. She knew that her sister could not bear to see Elizabeth sacrifice herself on her behalf. She couldn't tell her about Darcy's hand in Bingley's leaving and should she tell her that he would soon be back?"

Her thoughts were racing but the sound of her sister's voice made her focus. "Lizzy, what is it? I know how much you love father but there is hope, you heard the doctor!"

Elizabeth was aware that no one in the family liked Darcy but Jane; and even feared that with the others it was a _dislike_ which not all his fortune and consequence might do away. Finally, she opened her heart to Jane. Though suspicion was very far from Miss Bennet's general habits, she was absolutely incredulous here.

``You are joking, Lizzy. This cannot be! - engaged to Mr. Darcy! No, no, you shall not deceive me. I know it to be impossible.''

``This is a wretched beginning indeed! My sole dependence was on you; and I am sure nobody else will believe me, if you do not. Yet, indeed, I am in earnest. I speak nothing but the truth. He loves me, and we are engaged.''

Jane looked at her doubtingly. ``Oh, Lizzy! It cannot be. I know how much you dislike him and I had no idea that he cared for you. Not that loving you is surprising.''

``You know nothing of the matter. He has been very kind to me. We met many times at Rosings and Hunsford. I must admit my surprise when he asked for my hand but I truly believe that he loves me. So the past_ is all to be forgot. But in such cases as these, a good memory is unpardonable. This is the last time I shall ever remember it myself.''

Miss Bennet still looked all amazement. Elizabeth again, and more seriously assured her of its truth.

``Good Heaven! Can it be really so! Yet now I must believe you,'' cried Jane. ``My dear, dear Lizzy, I would - I do congratulate you - but are you certain? Forgive the question - are you quite certain that you can be happy with him?''

``There can be no doubt of that. But are you pleased, Jane? Shall you like to have such a brother?''

``Very, very much. And do you really love him quite well enough? Oh, Lizzy! Do any thing rather than marry without affection. Are you quite sure that you feel what you ought to?''

"Jane, I am sure that I shall be happy." She could not bear to lie to her sister so that is all she said about loving Mr. Darcy. Instead she turned the subject to the happier thought of Mr. Bingley's return. "But I must warn you, he comes to Netherfield any day now and brings your Bingley with him!"

Miss Bennet had not been able to hear of his coming without changing color. It was some time since she had mentioned his name to Elizabeth; but now, she said, ``I see you look at me, Lizzy, and I know I appeared distressed. But don't imagine it was from any silly cause. I was only confused for the moment, because I felt that I should be distressed. I do assure you that the news does not affect me either with pleasure or pain. Yet it is hard that this poor man cannot come to a house which he has legally hired, without raising speculation! I will leave him to himself. And anyway, why would Mr. Bingley come now?"

"After Mr. Darcy proposed, he requested if he could inform Mr. Bingley of Papa's illness so that he may ask Mr. Bingley's permission to stay at Netherfield. He was sure that Bingley would become one of the party. When I left Hunsford, he was leaving for London to meet Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Darcy's cousin, who was joining him there after leaving us at Bromley."

"Mr. Darcy's cousin traveled with you?"

"Yes, Mr. Darcy arranged for us to use one of Lady Catherine's carriages. At Bromley, we changed to the Post. Mr. Darcy arranged for Colonel Fitzwilliam to pay for our passage and then was to meet him in London. He suspected that they would be at Netherfield by week's end."

"That was very kind of him."

"Yes, it made it easy for me to get home and that was my main objective."

"I still can't believe it, engaged to Mr. Darcy! Did you tell Mama?"

"No, Mr. Darcy agreed that we should only tell a few people before he has a chance to talk to Papa. So only you, Mr. Bingley, and Colonel Fitzwilliam know. I'm would like to keep it that way for now."

"Of course, my dear sister, I am so happy for you. I do not know Mr. Darcy that well but Mr. Bingley thinks very highly of him. He must be a man of high character and he is obviously very kind and generous. Oh, how I shall miss you!"

"Wait, I'm not married yet. I may be here a few more days. Who knows, maybe you shall be married before me yet!" Jane was happy to hear her sister's playful tone again and, while denying the fact that she would beat her to the alter, laughed and embraced her beloved sister.

Jane had colored and declared she could not understand Elizabeth's meaning but in spite of what her sister declared, and she really believed to be Jane's feelings in the expectation of his arrival, Elizabeth could easily perceive that her spirits were affected by it. They were more disturbed, more unequal, than she had often seen them.

Chapter Nine

Posted on Tuesday, 4 January 2005

Elizabeth spent the afternoon reading by her father's bedside. His condition did not appear to have changed despite Dr. March's visit. While adjusting his pillows, she heard a knock at the front door, persuaded that it might be the doctor returning, decided to inquire.

She entered the family sitting room where Jane was busy at her needlepoint. She had not even been seated, when Hill, the family housekeeper, opened the door and began to announce their visitors. "Excuse me misses, there are two gentlemen here to see you. I informed them that there your father was ill but they still asked to talk to you ladies. It is Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth looked at her sister Jane to see her still at her work. "Show them in Hill, thank you."

Soon, their quick steps were heard approaching. Lizzy felt her pulse rising in the awkwardness of their meeting. Mr. Bingley entered first and approached Elizabeth, her being closer to the door. "Miss Elizabeth, how delightful to see you. We came as soon as we arrived to inquire after your father and see if we could be of any assistance. Pray tell me has he recovered?" As he asked this, his eyes were wavering around the room until he spotted her sister by the fire. While he listened to Elizabeth's words, his eyes never wavered from admiring her sister. Elizabeth could not help but be pleased.

"His condition is unchanged I'm afraid, sir. But thank you for your kindness."

His friend spoke now as he approached her bowing. "Miss Elizabeth, has Doctor Mm, I mean has the doctor seen him recently? Surely he will be able to help Mr. Bennet to recover."

Elizabeth was speechless. He had started to say Dr. March. How could he know; Suddenly a realization came upon her - it was him, Mr. Darcy had arranged for Doctor March to come to Longbourn. It was his kindness and generosity that brought the specialist to tend her beloved father.

"A doctor from London arrived this morning, sir," her sister answered for her. Jane, for her part, did not seem to have noticed what Mr. Darcy had said but continued, "He examined our father and said that this next week is very important. He told us not to give up hope but," lowering her eyes and voice, "he said also to pray."

Mr. Bingley looked truly affected by this. "You must have faith Miss Bennet." He moved towards Miss Bennet as he said this and gently took her hand in his. The way that he looked and spoke to Jane told Elizabeth that the gentlemen's friend and his sisters had been unsuccessful. It was obvious that he still loved Jane. He took his usual seat at her so as to not have to relinquish her hand or company. Jane looked at Bingley with tears in her eyes and said,

"Sir, thank you and I am glad to see you have returned."

While Elizabeth had never doubted that Jane was still in love with Bingley, her expression more than confirmed it for Elizabeth despite her protests of earlier in the day. She looked at Darcy now. He was watching his friend with an agonizing look in his eye. Elizabeth felt anger building inside her. It seemed to her that he still disapproved of her sister and yet he, Mr. Darcy himself, was engaged to her, Jane's sister! How could he be so opposed to their match when her sister was all that was goodness and kindness.

"Miss Elizabeth, would you do me the honor of taking a turn with me?" She nodded for she could not keep her knowledge of his interference in her sister's affair inside any longer. She waited until they were far enough from the house before she began. "Mr. Darcy."

"Please Miss Bennet, before we go on I must tell you something, which is I must confess. I believe that Mr. Bingley is in love with your sister. After the ball at Netherfield, I, along with his sisters, persuaded him that your sister did not love him and that she was an unsuitable choice. Even worse than that, I knew of your sister being in town and kept it from him. I had no right to interfere and ask that you and Miss Bennet please forgive me."

"I know how odd that must seem since I asked you to marry me but I did not believe that she cared for him. While I objected to your family, it would be nothing if she loved him. I observed her just now and believe that I was previously mistaken. If you can confirm it, I shall confess all to him tonight."

"Mr. Darcy, who are you to judge their happiness? What right did you have to interfere? I must say, of my acquaintance with you, your manners, impress me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others. But I did not know that you were to decide the fate of others!"

"Elizabeth, allow me explain. The situation of your mother's family, though objectionable, was nothing in comparison of that total want of propriety so frequently, so almost uniformly, betrayed by herself, by your three younger sisters, and occasionally even by your father. -- Pardon me. -- It pains me to offend you. But amidst your concern for the defects of your nearest relations, and your displeasure at this representation of them, let it give you consolation to consider that to have conducted yourselves so as to avoid any share of the like censure is praise no less generally bestowed on you and your eldest sister, than it is honorable to the sense and disposition of both. -- I will only say farther that, from what passed that evening at the Netherfield Ball, my opinion of all parties was confirmed, and every inducement heightened, which could have led me before to preserve my friend from what I esteemed a most unhappy connection."

"I shall not scruple to assert that the serenity of your sister's countenance and air was such as might have given the most acute observer a conviction that, however amiable her temper, her heart was not likely to be easily touched. -- That I was desirous of believing her indifferent is certain, -- but I will venture to say that my investigations and decisions are not usually influenced by my hopes or fears. -- I did not believe her to be indifferent because I wished it; -- I believed it on impartial conviction, as truly as I wished it in reason."

"I do not suppose that our opposition to the match would ultimately have prevented the marriage, had it not been seconded by the assurance, which I hesitated not in giving, of your sister's indifference. He had before believed her to return his affection with sincere, if not with equal, regard. - But Bingley has great natural modesty, with a stronger dependence on my judgment than on his own. -- To convince him, therefore, that he had deceived himself, was no very difficult point."

"I know now that I was wrong and I shall let him know at once."

Elizabeth turned away from him. "Mr. Darcy, how can you attack my family, especially my father, at a time like this? Pray forgive me sir, but I must beg to return to the house. Good night."

"Elizabeth, please wait." She left the garden with him following her. When entering the house though, ignoring his pleas for her to stop, she went straight for her room. He met Bingley in the hall where the gentlemen bid Miss Bennet goodnight and related again their hopes for Mr. Bennet's recovery.

With amazement did Elizabeth first understand that he believed any apology to be in his power; and steadfastly was she persuaded that he could have no explanation to give, which a just sense of shame would not conceal. With a strong prejudice against every thing he had said, she had listened to his account of what had happened at Netherfield. She had listened, with an eagerness which hardly left her power of comprehension, and from impatience of knowing what would come next. His belief of her sister's insensibility, she instantly resolved to be false, and his account of the real, the worst objections to the match, made her too angry to have any wish of doing him justice. How could she deny that credit to his assertions, in one instance, which she had been obliged to give in the other? -- He declared himself to have been totally unsuspicious of her sister's attachment; -- and she could not help remembering what Charlotte's opinion had always been. -- Neither could she deny the justice of his description of Jane. -- She felt that Jane's feelings, though fervent, were little displayed, and that there was a constant complacency in her air and manner not often united with great sensibility.

When she recollected what had been said about her family, in terms of such mortifying yet merited reproach, her sense of shame was severe. The justice of the charge struck her too forcibly for denial, and the circumstances to which he particularly alluded, as having passed at the Netherfield Ball, and as confirming all his first disapprobation, could not have made a stronger impression on his mind than on hers. The compliment to herself and her sister was not unfelt. It soothed, but it could not console her for the contempt which had been thus self-attracted by the rest of her family.

Elizabeth's thoughts were thus employed when her beloved sister knocked at her door. "Lizzy, are you in here? Ah, there you are. Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley left rather abruptly. Did something happen?"

Unsure how to answer this, Elizabeth made an excuse about a disagreement over wedding plans allowing that she preferred a longer engagement than her intended. Jane, ever the generous soul, took this as truth, and excused her sister to return to their father's bedside.

Chapter Ten

Posted on Tuesday, 4 January 2005

Elizabeth spent another night at her father's bedside reading to him. She knew of and shared his great love of books and found therapy in the escapism that they provided. She had nodded off when she felt a light, feeble tap on her hand. Her father was quietly calling her name. "Lizzy, Lizzy, my dear, do not fret for your old father."

Forcing herself to alertness, she started and a great happiness flowed over her countenance. "Oh Papa, you are awake! I have been so worried. I thought that we had lost you."

"Lizzy, please listen to me. I am too weak and I fear; I am not long for this world. It is up to you my dearest to take charge of this family." He brushed off her objections, "No Lizzy, I fear it is not to be. But fret not, laugh instead for you know that is the emotion that I have always preferred. I have lived a full life and you child have been my greatest source of joy. I hate to burden you but you have the most sense of any of your sisters, and I fear your mother's nerves will prevent her from looking after you and your sisters."

"I have set up a will asking that your Uncle Gardiner to assist you in any manner but family decisions will be left up to you. I beg that you marry a wise man that may assist you. Try and marry for love though Lizzy, I would hate for you to have a loveless or unequal marriage. I trust your economy to see our family through until that event may happen."

Seeing her father's concern for her and her family, she felt that she must betray her secret to relieve his worry. "Papa, there is something I must tell you," she gazed down now for she could not retain his eye contact. "I am already engaged, sir. Mr. Darcy has asked for my hand and I have consented. We are only waiting for your consent for he intends to consult you as soon as you are well enough."

"Mr. Darcy? Lizzy," her father was looking grave and anxious. "Lizzy,'' said he, ``what are you doing? Are you out of your senses, to be accepting this man? Have not you always hated him?''

How earnestly did she then wish that her former opinions had been more reasonable, her expressions more moderate! It would have spared her from explanations and professions which it was exceedingly awkward to give; but they were now necessary, and she assured him because of not wanting to grieve him, of her attachment to Mr. Darcy.

``Or, in other words, you are determined to have him. He is rich, to be sure, and you may have many fine clothes and fine carriages. But will they make you happy?''

``Have you any other objection,'' said Elizabeth, ``than your belief of my indifference?''

``None at all. We all know him to be a proud, unpleasant sort of man; but this would be nothing if you really liked him.''

``I do, I do like him,'' she replied, with tears in her eyes, ``He has been most kind to me. I am sure that he truly loves me. In fact, he went to London and sent Dr. March to Longbourn because he knew of my concern and love for you. He arranged for my conveyance home and paid all the expenses. So Papa, don't worry, we shall all be fine.''

``Lizzy,'' said her father, ``I will give him my consent. He is the kind of man, indeed, to whom I should never dare refuse any thing, which he condescended to ask. I now give it to _you_, if you are resolved on having him. But let me advise you to think better of it. I know your disposition, Lizzy. I know that you could be neither happy nor respectable, unless you truly esteemed your husband; unless you looked up to him as a superior. Your lively talents would place you in the greatest danger in an unequal marriage. You could scarcely escape discredit and misery. My child, let me not have the grief of knowing _you will be unable to respect your partner in life. You know not what you are about.''

"Papa, please, do not upset yourself. I am sure of my choice. Now, rest, rest please and save your strength."

"Come here child and kiss your father's cheek. I should not say this but I think you know that you are my favorite child, my true joy. You and your sister Jane are the only sensible ladies of this household and I treasure you both." His voice trailed off as he drifted back to sleep. Elizabeth's emotions were high; her father now knew of her engagement and had consented. Her guilt was great though for she hated misleading her father. She had led him to believe that she loved Mr. Darcy.

She no longer hated Mr. Darcy but she knew she did not feel what she ought about him, not to be married to him. But her father knew that Mr. Darcy would take care of her and her father would not be distressed about that. She laid her head on his hand and drifted back to sleep.

The servants dared not to draw the drapes open in Mr. Bennet's sick room for they knew Miss Elizabeth had been tending to him most of the night. She still slept now and they knew it best to leave her thus. Her sister Jane had joined her and kept vigil quietly on the other side of his sick bed. Elizabeth was awakened by a soft caress on her shoulder. She looked up to a see a familiar face smiling down on her. "Aunt, I'm so glad you came! Where is my uncle?"

Mrs. Gardiner was a very welcome sight for Elizabeth and Jane both. They truly loved and respected their aunt and uncle and this feeling was reciprocated. "He is just tending to the horses and will be here directly." She inquired the status of their father's condition, that of their mother and how they, her dear nieces were.

Since their discussion would probably prove to be lengthy, they retired to the small sitting room with Mary tending the sick room and after their uncle joined them, a good half hour was spent in conversation. The sound of horses approaching brought the younger Bennet sisters into the room to see who it could be.

"It is Mr. Bingley, and there is a gentleman with him,'' said Kitty; ``who can it be?'' ``La! Looks just like that man that used to be with him before. Mr. what's-his-name. That tall, proud man.''

"It must be Mr. Darcy, he was here with him yesterday." Jane said smiling at her sister for she believed this would give Elizabeth joy. Their Aunt Gardiner observed this and noticed that Elizabeth had a slight rise of color in her cheek. Although it would seem that her aunt mistook the reason for the blush, she felt it was because of some attachment on Lizzy's part. Truly, she was mistaken for now having secured her father's consent; she was regretting her saucy speech to Mr. Darcy. He, who was to be her family's savior, she had condemned for being harsh on her family. She also feared how he would act towards her and to her relations that he looked down upon.

The gentlemen in question entered the room while her thoughts were thus engaged. Mr. Bingley sought out her sister immediately while his friend approached her. Mrs. Gardiner was standing a little behind; and on her pausing, he asked her if she would do him the honor of introducing him to her friends. She could hardly suppress a smile at his being now seeking the acquaintance of some of those very people against whom his pride had revolted. ``What will be his surprise,'' thought she, ``when he knows who they are! He takes them now for people of fashion.''

The introduction, however, was immediately made; and as she named their relationship to herself, she stole a sly look at him, to see how he bore it; and was not without the expectation of his removal from their conversation as fast as he could from such disgraceful companions. That he was surprised by the connection was evident; he sustained it however with fortitude, and so far from going away, turned back with them, and entered into conversation with Mr. Gardiner. Elizabeth could not but be pleased, could not but triumph. It was consoling that he should know she had some relations for whom there was no need to blush. She listened most attentively to all that passed between them, and gloried in every expression, every sentence of her uncle, which marked his intelligence, his taste, or his good manners.

The conversation soon turned upon fishing, and she heard Mr. Darcy invite him, with the greatest civility, to fish at his home Pemberley as often as he chose whenever he found himself in the neighborhood, offering at the same time to supply him with fishing tackle, and to point out those parts of the stream where there was usually most sport. Mrs. Gardiner, who was talking with Elizabeth, gave her a look expressive of her wonder. Elizabeth said nothing, but it gratified her exceedingly; the compliment must be all for herself. Her astonishment, however, was extreme; and continually was she repeating, ``Why is he so altered? From what can it proceed? It cannot be for me, it cannot be for my sake that his manners are thus softened. My reproofs last night could not work such a change as this.''

The Gardiners were struck with amazement. They had never met Mr. Bingley or Mr. Darcy before but had previously been acquainted with tales of both. Mr. Bingley was all that they had heard of - affable and clearly in love with their dear Jane. Mr. Darcy, on the other hand was believed to be proud and arrogant, proved to be quite the opposite. Although not as outgoing as his friend, they found him to be just as amiable and obviously in love with their other niece. Of the girls' affection, they were uncertain, but it was obvious that the men both knew what it was to love.

The gentlemen took their leave to allow the Gardiners to get settled and to visit with Mrs. Bennet who still kept to her room. They did, however, promise to call the next day.

``He is perfectly well behaved, polite, and unassuming,'' said her uncle referring to Mr. Darcy.

``There is something a little stately in him to be sure,'' replied her aunt, ``but it is confined to his air, and is not unbecoming. That though some people may call him proud, _I_ have seen nothing of it.''

``To be sure, Lizzy,'' said her aunt, ``he is not so handsome as Wickham; or rather he has not Wickham's countenance, for his features are perfectly good. But how came you to tell us that he was so disagreeable?''

Elizabeth excused herself as well as she could; said that she had liked him better when they met in Kent than before, and that she had never seen him so pleasant as this morning. She decided not to inform them as of yet of the agreement that existed between the two of them and instead to seek a private counsel with her aunt that evening to discuss how to best inform her mother.

``But perhaps he may be a little whimsical in his civilities,'' replied her uncle. ``Your great men often are; and therefore I shall not take him at his word about fishing, as he might change his mind another day, and warn me off his grounds.''

Elizabeth felt that they had entirely mistaken his character, but said nothing. She would vindicate him later.

``From what we have seen of him,'' continued Mrs. Gardiner, ``I really should not have thought that he could have behaved in so cruel a way by any body, as he has done by poor Wickham. He has not an ill-natured look. On the contrary, there is something pleasing about his mouth when he speaks. And there is something of dignity in his countenance that would not give one an unfavorable idea of his heart."

"Maybe, there is more to the story than we know," was all that Elizabeth allowing for the first time herself that she had only heard Wickham's side of the story.

Chapter Eleven

Posted on Tuesday, 4 January 2005

It was late morning when Dr. March arrived to examine his patient. Elizabeth was very anxious to see him and inform him of the morning's events. Although her father had not awoken since, she was convinced it must be a good sign. He had spoken to her, but then again, maybe it was a dream. No, she was sure, she had been sleeping but he woke her and spoke to her. She did not tell the doctor, or especially her sisters, of the conversation because her father had been convinced that his death was near. She would not allow this; she could not allow this to be true.

Dr. March assured her it was a good sign but would like to examine him just the same. He asked the sisters to leave him to his patient and wait for his appraisal.

Her aunt and uncle were visiting with her mother upstairs while the daughters of the house were forced to wait. The uncle, being the mother's elder brother remained with her some time but soon the aunt appeared and said, "Lizzy, will you take a walk with me in the garden while we wait?"

Lizzy, who truly wished to confide in her aunt, nodded and rose to join her. The day was cooler than most for April and Lizzy felt a distinct chill in the air. She wished that she had thought to put her cloak on but the discussion would not be delayed.

"Dearest aunt, I am so glad that you have come to us. My uncle too, for your presence is reassuring to both Jane and I. I'm sure that Mama is comforted as well."

"You know that your uncle and I would do anything in our power for you all and I can think of no place that I should be at this time except here with you." Her aunt thought of broaching the subject of the two gentlemen callers but she did not wish to force Elizabeth's confidence. There was no need, though, for the niece brought up the subject herself.

"Aunt, I suppose that you were surprised to meet Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley here today."

The aunt responded in the affirmative and that at such a time as their father's illness made it all the more surprising. "I met Mr. Darcy several times while I was visiting my friend, Charlotte, I mean Mrs. Collins, at Hunsford. His aunt's, Lady Catherine, home is the neighboring estate. In fact, while we were there, he made me an offer and I have accepted him." This was all said in an unaffected tone that surprised her aunt. Lizzy did not even look at her aunt for she knew that excepting Jane, she could read her better than anybody.

"Lizzy, I had no idea. That is, it was evident today that Mr. Darcy is in love with you but I had no idea that you were in love with him. You are very sly, you hardly mentioned him in your letters and when you did, I thought that you did not care at all for him. I guess that is the way with emotions though - to hate someone strongly is really not that far from loving them thus. Only those with strong ties to us can project such strong emotion from us."

"I must say I was surprised with his application, I had no idea that he felt that way about me until then."

"And yet you accepted him? You thought your love was unrequited?"

"Truly, I was merely surprised but his actions and looks have since shown me and now I fervently believe he loves me. He has put up with my impertinence at least. I was very saucy to him yesterday and still am surprised that he has not held a grudge because of it!" She said this with a bit of a laugh for it was true, he had not held it against her. In fact, it seemed to have worked on him because his behavior today was such that she had never seen from him before. He had been amiable to perfect stranger, inferior strangers. She could not believe it was because of her reproaches but then again, maybe it had.

"What does your mother say about the match, she did not mention it earlier and I must admit, Mr. Darcy has not seemed a favorite with her. Does she consent to the marriage?"

"That is why I seek your counsel. I have not told her. Mr. Darcy was waiting for Papa to recover to seek his consent. We didn't want to tell anyone until then because I'm afraid Mama would tell anyone who would listen. Only Jane, Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam who is Mr. Darcy's cousin and now you know the truth. Oh and Papa. I told him this morning. He was very concerned for our welfare in case, well." She could not bear to continue that train of thought and with a tear in her eye continued, "So I told him about Mr. Darcy."

"And what did he say?"

"He was as surprised as you were for he thought that I hated him. I assured him that Mr. Darcy was a good man and that he would take care of us. Of me."

"Lizzy, is that why you are marrying him? For comfort? I know that for many women that is the sole purpose of marrying but I never thought it was the allurement for you."

"Aunt, I assure you that I am not marrying him for my own comfort."

"Well, I believe that you must tell your mother. I think it would relieve her to know that she has one less daughter to worry about. What about Mr. Bingley, he and Jane are not engaged too?"

She explained how Mr. Darcy had traveled to London to asked Mr. Bingley to stay at Netherfield so as to be near her but she felt that Mr. Bingley had his own reasons for returning to the area. "Although they are not engaged at present, perhaps Jane will be at the alter before me!"

"By the looks of things today, I would not be surprised. I congratulate you Lizzy. I would never have thought that my own niece would be Mistress of Pemberley. It is a beautiful estate; I know that you shall love it there. I should love to tour the grounds, perhaps with a set of ponies and a low phaeton that would be just the thing. But at present, I'm afraid we must return to the house."

Dr. March was talking to Jane when they returned. He told them that despite his consciousness that day, there had been no improvement in Mr. Bennet's condition. He had administered more medication and again, would return the next day.

Chapter Twelve

Posted on Tuesday, 4 January 2005

The gentlemen were true to their word and returned the following day. Elizabeth was attending their father when they arrived along with Jane but Mrs. Gardiner, worried of her nieces' welfare for tending a sick bed was distressing work, suggested a walk for them and the gentlemen callers. She knew that the girls were wearing themselves out taking care of the father and mother and that fresh air along with a sojourn with their gentlemen would do them world of good. Mary and Kitty took over with for their father for Lydia was too busy and flippant to stop rearranging the new hat she had just purchased.

A walk to Oakham Mount was suggested for the view was pleasing and at not at too great a distance so not to be long from Longbourn. Lizzy, for her sister's sake, lagged behind with her fiancé to allow her sister to reacquaint herself with Mr. Bingley. She watched them from her vantage point and saw how freely they conversed; it was though they had never been parted.

"Elizabeth, I am truly worried about you, please allow me to hire a nurse for your father. I know you want to be with him, but you must also get your rest." She turned her gaze from her sister to Mr. Darcy upon hearing these words. She could see how truly concerned he was but steadily assured him that it would not matter, she had to be near her father. Whether the nurse was there or not, that is where she would be. He decided that this was an excellent time to try and make her smile adding, "and remember, I have a vested interest in your father's recovery. Until then, I cannot ask him for your hand!"

"Forgive me, I forgot that I have not informed you. There has been so much going on, people coming and going, I thought that I had mentioned it."

Elizabeth's voice trailed off as she noticed again her sister and Mr. Bingley. Jane was sitting on a large rock off to the side of the path and it appeared that Bingley was kneeling behind her. While she was trying hard to see the scene before her, Darcy demanded her attention.

"Elizabeth, what have you not mentioned? Elizabeth, what is it?" He took her hands into his and in doing so, turned her away from their companions. This had the desired affect though and her attention returned to him.

"Oh yes, Papa woke for a short time yesterday, and I hope you do not mind but I told him of our engagement. He has given his consent but I have not told Mama yet. I will soon though." He was so caught up in his emotions that he pulled her into his arms, lifted her up in the air and swung her around him in a full circle.

"Mr. Darcy!" she exclaimed while letting out a giggle, "What are you doing?"

"Now it is you that must forgive me! I can't tell you how happy I am to hear that! There will be no impediments now! You are truly to be mine!" There was a true look of joy of his face, and Lizzy could not help but smile herself.

She was still not pleased with the match herself but she was resigned to it, that made it possible to even smile at times like these. She had begun to realize Darcy's worth. He was a good, kind man in every action toward her and now even to her family. It seemed it was only to Wickham, who he had known all his life, was he cruel. Their arrangement seemed to be doing good for at least someone in her family for she could easily see that Jane was smiling unlike she had for quite some time.

Jane and Bingley had turned back toward the estate taking a shorter path instead of the road when they heard Lizzy's and Darcy's exclamations. Darcy, while always the reserved shy man, could not stop himself from explaining to his good friend and her sister the reason for his joy.

"Good God, Darcy, what are you doing?" Bingley inquired.

"Mr. Bennet woke temporarily and has given consent. Now only Mrs. Bennet need be applied to!" Bingley true joy for his friend, for he had the kindest heart, embraced his friend and offered his hearty congratulations. This caused a slight separation of the sexes.

Jane could have no reserves from Elizabeth, where confidence would give pleasure; and instantly embraced her, and acknowledged with the liveliest emotion, that she was the happiest creature in the world.

``'Tis too much!'' she added, ``by far too much. I do not deserve it. Oh! why is not every body as happy?''

Elizabeth's congratulations were given with sincerity, warmth, a delight, which words could but poorly express. Every sentence of kindness was a fresh source of happiness to Jane. But she would not allow herself to stay with her sister, or say half that remained to be said for the present.

``I must go instantly to my mother;'' she cried. ``I would not on any account trifle with her affectionate solicitude; or allow her to hear it from any one but myself. Oh! Lizzy, to know that what I have to relate will give such pleasure to all my dear family! how shall I bear so much happiness!''

She then hastened away to her mother, who still kept to her room, and was sitting in the up stairs of Longbourn with Kitty.

Elizabeth, who was left by herself, now smiled at the rapidity and ease with which an affair was finally settled, that had given them so many previous months of suspense and vexation.

``And this,'' said she, ``is the end of all his friend's anxious circumspection! of all his sister's falsehood and contrivance! the happiest, wisest, most reasonable end!''

In a few minutes she rejoined Bingley and Darcy, who together were conversing on what appeared to have been the same subject as the ladies. ``Where is your sister?'' said he hastily, as she approached.

`She has gone to my mother's chamber . She will join us soon, I dare say.''

"Bingley had just told me that we are to be brothers! And I have happily congratulated him. I'm sure that he and your sister, Miss Bennet, will be very happy together." He said this with a devilish smile to Lizzy who took it to understand that he had been a party to it all along. Elizabeth could not help but smile triumphantly at Mr. Darcy, and in seeing his countenance, could tell that he was taking as much joy as she was from the day's events.

"I have just heard the same information from my sister, sir." And turning to his friend, related the true joy she felt in her heart. He came up to her and claimed the good wishes and affection of a sister. Elizabeth honestly and heartily expressed her delight in the prospect of their relationship. They shook hands with great cordiality; and then, till her sister returned, she had to listen to all he had to say of his own happiness, and of Jane's perfections; and in spite of his being a lover, Elizabeth really believed all his expectations of felicity to be rationally founded, because they had for basis the excellent understanding, and super-excellent disposition of Jane, and a general similarity of feeling and taste between her and himself.

When the group reached Longbourn, the men were pressed to stay to lunch and as they had no fixed engagements that day, agreed to the plan. It was an afternoon of no common delight to them all; the satisfaction of Miss Bennet's mind gave a glow of such sweet animation to her face, as made her look handsomer than ever. Kitty simpered and smiled, and hoped her turn was coming soon.

The gentlemen decided that it was time to take their leave but Mr. Darcy asked Elizabeth to see him out, which allowed the introduction to discussion the day's events. Darcy was delighted with Bingley and Jane's engagement; his friend had given him the earliest information of it.

While she felt that he wasn't, she asked, ``I must ask whether you were surprised?'' said Elizabeth.

``Not at all. When I came here today, I felt that it would soon happen.''

``That is to say, you had given your permission. I guessed as much.'' And though he exclaimed at the term, she found that it had been pretty much the case.

``Last evening,'' said he, ``I made that confession to him, which I believe I ought to have made long ago. I told him that my former interference in his affairs was absurd and impertinent. I told him, moreover, that I believed myself mistaken in supposing, as I had done, that your sister was indifferent to him; and as I could easily perceive that his attachment to her was unabated, I felt no doubt of their happiness together.''

Elizabeth could not help smiling at his easy manner of directing his friend.

``And your assurance of her affection, I suppose, carried immediate conviction to him.''

``It did. Bingley is most unaffectedly modest. His diffidence had prevented his depending on his own judgment in so anxious a case, but his reliance on mine made everything easy. I was obliged to confess one thing, which for a time, and not unjustly, offended him. I could not allow myself to conceal that your sister had been in town three months last winter that I had known it, and purposely kept it from him. He was angry. But his anger, I am persuaded, lasted no longer than he remained in any doubt of your sister's sentiments. He has heartily forgiven me now.''

Elizabeth longed to observe that Mr. Bingley had been a most delightful friend; so easily guided that his worth was invaluable; but she checked herself. She remembered that he had yet to learn to be laughed at, and it was rather too early to begin. In anticipating the happiness of Bingley, which of course was to be inferior only to his own, he continued the conversation till they reached the horses. As they parted, he made a request of her.

"Miss Bennet, Elizabeth, would I be too bold in asking you for a kiss?" She was taken back by his request and silently began to blush. He took her silence for an assent and leaned forward to allow his lips to gently touch hers. He started to part from her but then leaned in further and drew her up in his arms in a passionate embrace. She could not help but respond to him and was amazed at what she felt. She had chills from the excitement of his touch.

The sound of voices approached and he quickly moved away from her. She was left in awe of what had just happened. She was not mad at the liberty he had taken but was shocked at her response to it. She knew that she did not hate him anymore, actually she was growing fond of him but she could not believe the way that his touch had excited her.

Bingley and Jane had joined them, for they had been the approaching voices.

As the gentlemen mounted their horses, they bid their ladies good-bye and pledged to be there tomorrow. Their ladies watched them leave and Jane began to relate her mother's excitement at her revelation. Her mother actually declared her nerves cured and would travel to town to inform her sister of the good tidings.

Elizabeth realized two things. First, she still had not made her declaration to her mother and should do so at once. Secondly, that with Jane marrying Bingley, it was not really necessary for her to marry Darcy after all. This thought which would have produced great joy a week prior, now provoked different emotions. That kiss had produced different emotions. She was unsure of what to do, how to proceed and most importantly, she did not know anymore what she wanted. She resumed her vigil at her father's bedside to allow her time to decide.

Chapter Thirteen

Posted on Friday, 7 January 2005

With great trepidation, Elizabeth decided to leave her father's bedside to consult with her mother. It was not that she feared relating her tidings but more that she feared her mother's tendency for hysterics and fits of her nerves.

It was true that she could easily back out of the marriage now for her family could rely on her sister's engagement to provide for her family. She was not sure now that she wanted her freedom. It was true; she had hated Mr. Darcy for she thought him proud and arrogant. But since that time when she consented out of necessity to become his wife, she had grown to know him better and in knowing him better, she respected him. He was not what she had thought; the kindness that he had shown since her father's illness was enough to change her opinion. But it was also in his manner that she felt this change. She was surprised by his disposition; it could almost be called cheerful in these past days. Not only by that was she surprised but by her own countenance. She now looked forward to his visits. Most startling to her was how she felt when he took her in his arms. It awoke feelings in her that she did not know existed.

Then again, what was it that her aunt had said just days earlier. "I guess that is the way with emotions though - to hate someone strongly is really not that far from loving them thus. Only those with strong ties to us can project such strong emotion from us." Perhaps her aunt was correct, Lizzy had felt so strongly and love and hate are truly related emotions.

As soon as her sister Kitty could be called upon to relieve her, she decided she must apply to her mother. She knew that her mother had been cured of her illness of late by news of her eldest daughter impending marriage. Now, her second eldest was coming to give the same information only regarding herself. She began to feel guilty for she had been engaged since before returning home but had neglected telling her mother. Yet Jane, who was engaged only on this very day, had already given her mother great joy.

But Jane's case was different. Mrs. Bennet regarded Mr. Bingley and had acknowledged him as a prospective son-in-law from their first meeting. She had anticipated his proposal for months now, and though it did not take place until now in her mind, it was bound to take place.

Mr. Darcy was a very different story. He had offended Mrs. Bennet on their very first meeting and she was vocal about her dislike of him. Whenever she was in his company, she was always on the verge of being rude to him. Beyond her dislike of him, she had no knowledge of his regard for her daughter. She may have been aware of his recent visits to Longbourn but she would conclude that he was accompanying his friend as he had done in the past. She would not associate it for some preference for her second daughter.

With these feelings weighing heavily on her heart, Elizabeth knocked quietly on her mother's door and bade a welcome to her chamber.

"Lizzy, is it not wonderful? I knew that she could not be so pretty for nothing. Five thousand a year and perhaps more. I shall leave soon for Meryton to tell my sister and then to Lucas Lodge. We shall all be saved!"

Elizabeth's nerves were building inside her and after assuring her mother that Jane's news was wonderful, expressed her need to inform her mother of something herself.

After a request from her mother to postpone their conference, Elizabeth assured her that it was most urgent. She then made her important disclosure.

Its effect was extraordinary; for on first hearing it, Mrs. Bennet sat quite still, and unable to utter a syllable. Nor was it under many, many minutes that she could comprehend what she heard; though not in general backward to credit what was for the advantage of her family, or that came in the shape of a lover to any of them. She began at length to recover, to fidget about in her chair, get up, sit down again, wonder, and bless herself.

``Good gracious! Lord bless me! only think! dear me! Mr. Darcy! Who would have thought it! And is it really true? Oh! my sweetest Lizzy! how rich and how great you will be! What pin-money, what jewels, what carriages you will have! Jane's is nothing to it -- nothing at all. I am so pleased - so happy. Such a charming man! -- so handsome! so tall! -- Oh, my dear Lizzy! pray apologize for my having disliked him so much before. I hope he will overlook it. Dear, dear Lizzy. A house in town! Every thing that is charming! Two daughters married! Ten thousand a year! Oh, Lord! What will become of me. I shall go distracted.''

This was enough to prove that her approbation need not be doubted: and Elizabeth, rejoicing that such an effusion was heard only by herself, soon went away. But before she had been three minutes in her own room, her mother followed her.

``My dearest child,'' she cried, ``I can think of nothing else! Ten thousand a year, and very likely more! 'Tis as good as a Lord! And a special license. You must and shall be married by a special license. But my dearest love, tell me what dish Mr. Darcy is particularly fond of, that I may have it tomorrow.''

"Mama, that is not necessary. Mr. Darcy understands that we are all distressed over Father's illness. He expects no special treatment." After her mother's declaration to just prepare an excellent table on the morrow, she hurried away for now she had two daughter's engagements to announce.

Elizabeth had tried to explain the impropriety of such a disclosure with Mr. Bennet so ill and that he had not consented yet to Jane's marriage although she declined to mention that he had consented to hers. Her mother declared that at a time of her husband's illness, she was the head of the household and it only matter that her consent be given.

Elizabeth was forced to relent but did so gladly for it would allow her return to her father's bedside. She joined Jane who had replaced Kitty which allowed her to relate her mother's response.

The ladies were stayed with their father over night and had been joined in the morning by Dr. March who was making his daily visit to his patient. It was during this time that the gentlemen, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley arrived at Longbourn. They were shown in the parlor where they chose to wait instead of coming away without seeing their fair ladies.

It seemed that they waited an eternity for the ladies to come out but when they did, they were taken back but the vision before them. Lizzy entered the parlor, tears ran down her face. When her eyes met Darcy's, her sobbing became audible. She could not ignore her impulse and ran across the room to him where he rose, accepting her into his arms. He feared the worst and tried to comfort her.

"No, you don't understand. He will survive!!! Dr. March has said that it will take a long time before he is like his old self again but he will live! It is thanks to you for I know that you sent the doctor here. Please allow me to thank you on behalf of all my family for they do not know to whom they are indebted."

``If you will thank me,'' he replied, ``let it be for yourself alone. But your family owe me nothing. Much as I respect them, I believe I thought only of you. Please, I beg you, please don't cry''

She began to control her emotion at his entreaty and realized even though they were tears of joy, it pained him to see her thus. She did not, however, leave his embrace for some time relishing in how safe and protected she felt herself under his protection. After several minutes, she again became aware that she had not entered the room alone but happily found that Jane was similarly occupied. When the gentlemen, finally released their ladies, the group was able to enjoy the next hour in discussing all that the doctor had said and his plan for Mr. Bennet's road to recovery.

Chapter Fourteen

Posted on Friday, 7 January 2005

The next few weeks went by quickly at Longbourn. Dr. March saw his patient make excellent strides towards recovery. Mr. Bennet spent most the day awake now and was able to eat and drink on his own. He had not been able to walk yet due to a weakness on his right side that Dr. March sadly informed him would never totally go away. With work and exercise, he would be able to walk again but he would always walk with a cane. Happy was he the day that his daughters' two suitors came to him and requested his daughters' hands. He had taken pains to become better acquainted with his future sons-in-law and found that he liked them both exceedingly.

Mrs. Bennet could not contain herself from her neighbors about what good fortune had fallen on the Bennets. She would have had the wedding arranged, for the sisters planned to be married at the same ceremony, except for the daughters' wish for the father to be well enough to walk them down the aisle. Had her future son-in-law not have been present when she discussed with Lizzy the date of the ceremony, things may have been different. But Mrs. Bennet stood in such awe of her second daughter's fiancé that she ventured not to speak to him, unless it was in her power to offer him any attention, or mark her deference for his opinion.

Mr. Darcy, while understanding his future wife's wish of having her father at the wedding, wanted to take his bride to Derbyshire to see their grand estate. While he was able to tolerate her family, he also missed his dear sister, Georgiana, and was anxious for her to meet Elizabeth. A letter arrived one day from Elizabeth's aunt as she sat in a small copse in the park at Longbourn, and since it took her attention away from Darcy, which of course displeased him, she shared it contents with him;

My Dear Niece,

I am so glad to hear that your father continues to make progress. A fall wedding would be beautiful, don't you agree? And just wait until you see the beautiful rolling hills of Derbyshire. The brilliancy of color will astound you I'm sure!

My reason for writing though is for some entertainment until that time. As you know, Jane is to tend for our darling children while your uncle and I tour the Lakes. I propose, with your uncle's agreement of course, that you should join us! This may be our last chance to travel like this, and it would help pass the time until the wedding. On the way home, we can stop at Longbourn to collect Jane and the children so that you both may come with us to London to look at some wedding clothes. We could all shop from Gracechurch Street.

Pray write and tell me what you think of our scheme. I'm sure that Mr. Darcy has estate business that he is neglecting dreadfully and this would allow him some time to attend to it!

Yours affectionately,
M. Gardiner

Darcy laughed at the reference to him and was forced to own that it was true. It had been some time since he had been to his estate and for that matter his townhouse but the thought of leaving his beloved was too much. He proposed an alternative itinerary.

"Why don't you propose to your aunt and uncle to come to Pemberley? You could all be my guests. It would allow you to meet the staff, and we could begin to make any changes you wished to your personal chambers. You could see the whole estate and more importantly, meet Georgiana. Your aunt is from Lambton and would probably enjoy being so close to home again." Elizabeth was amazed at his generosity. It had occurred to her that she would not be allowed to invite her low connections to visit her at home and was glad to hear him propose their visiting. "And then, when you and Jane stay with them in London, I will go to our townhouse and show you that as well."

"Oh, Fitzwilliam, do you mean it? That would be wonderful! I will write to my aunt right away!" She rose to return immediately to the house to attend to her correspondence and share with Jane the new proposal.

"Not so fast, you must pay for your lodging, mustn't you?" he said playfully with a devilish look in his eye.

"Pay you, sir? And pray tell me sir, what would the cost be to stay at the grand estate of Pemberley? Perhaps I am not willing to pay the cost and shall stay at the Inn in Lambton instead."

"Come here, if you dare, and I shall whisper it in your ear. I surely hope that you would favor my price over that of the inn!"

"If I dare, sir? You know sir that I would never cower from any attempt to intimidate me!"

"That is what I am counting on my dear!" She approached him smiling yet unsure of what he would do. She felt butterflies in her stomach and was on her guard as a child about to be tickled. She lowered her head but a few inches from his face to allow him the whisper his price in her ear and felt his arm envelope her waist. She felt his warm breath on her neck and then his lips on her skin. His kisses trailed up her neck, along her face, and finally, rested them on her lips. She wrapped her arms around him, forgetting all that was around her, only he was in her world now.

Suddenly he pulled away and jokingly suggested that perhaps she should stay at Lambton for her own safety. She laughed at him but then was assured that his price, although paid, would probably require additional payments in the future. She left him then to attend to the business for which she had originally sent out. With in a week's time, she received her aunt's response. They were delighted with the idea for her aunt had several acquaintances in that neighborhood that she wished to visit.

The only one unpleased with the idea was Mrs. Bennet for she insisted on joining them in London. For although, her sister Gardiner lived there, Mrs. Bennet was sure that she did not know the best warehouses and would have to be there to assist her daughters. Moreover, it would allow her to see her daughters' houses in town for it was arranged that Bingley should be there too at the arranged time. Colonel Fitzwilliam would join Darcy at Pemberley until the party left for London. It was settled then, they would leave Hertfordshire in a fortnight.

Chapter Fifteen

Posted on Friday, 7 January 2005

The days of the next week passed quickly by and as every one of them passed, Elizabeth realized more and more how much she enjoyed Darcy's company. He and his friend were daily callers at Longbourn with the exception of a luncheon or two at Netherfield. The ladies preferred to have the gentlemen call on them, for due to the lack in the Netherfield party of ladies, it was improper for them to call at Netherfield without the guardianship of their mother. On every visit to Jane's future home, Mrs. Bennet could not refrain from proposing some sort of change to the place be made for Jane's comfort. Jane, who only cared for her dear Bingley's company and after proposing some modest changes to the rooms that were to be her own, dreaded these discussions with her mother for her mother was not easily dissuaded. The other couple however, benefited from this situation for it afforded time to be alone. They were able to walk around the gardens of the house without interruption.

On just one occasion, the couple walked across the balcony that opened outside of the music room and led out into a small garden on the shady side of the house. It was now full summer, and although it was a beautiful day, it promised to grow only hotter. Therefore, they restricted themselves to the shade.

Elizabeth knew that Darcy was uneasy but she knew not why. He was silent and his disagreeable façade of old had returned. In an attempt to draw him out with a bit of her humor she began, "Pray tell me sir, what is it that offends you? Have I done something to displease? Or do you just not favor this dress?" He looked at her lovingly, laughing and holding her arm tighter in his grasp. "Or my hair, you suddenly do not like the color? Or the shape of my eyes, they are..."

He stopped her there, "No, dearest love, there is nothing offensive about you - especially your most beautiful eyes. Although, that dress is not the best color for you!" He smiled devilishly and she could not help but notice how appealing he looked when he smiled.

"How dare you sir? Such an impertinent remark! What is wrong with this dress?" She stated this jestingly all the while showering him with a flirtatious grin.

"Well, my darling, the neckline is much too high, but then again, since I am your protector now, it is much too low. And that pale peach does not suit your complexion, I think that green perfectly sets off your hair and eyes. But, that is just my opinion."

"Fitzwilliam Darcy! Shocking - talking about a lady's neckline - what would my mother say if she were to hear you!"

"I'm afraid, darling, that she would side with me for it seems that your mother agrees with whatever I say these days. It may even allow her to hasten our wedding which you know is what she has wanted for some time."

Although his words were spoken in jest, Elizabeth blushed at his all too true thoughts of her mother. He saw this and was very sorry that he had said, even jokingly, something that gave her pain. He stopped his progression, "I'm sorry my dearest if I have offended you, it was not my intention. I have not gotten used to our sportive banter but humbly promise to practice it every chance I get." He bowed towards her and she could help but laugh, her feelings eased.

"Be forewarned sir, to watch what you say, for you might provoke me to retaliate and you know that I have a swift tongue!"

She had mock fire in her eyes and he could not resist her. He took her in his arms and kissed her passionately. He felt her arms move up and encircle his neck. Her fingers were caressing the curls at the back of his head. Her touch drove him crazy. He began moving his kisses away from her lips towards her right ear, slowly down her neck until he reached the little crevice in her shoulder. Her dress stopped his progression there. He smiled as he moved back to appreciate her, she that would be his.

"I see that you are inspecting my neckline sir. What do you think?"

"Oh, Lizzy, I think that I wish that we were married right now so that would not have to be stopped by that dress! Seriously, my love, there is a reason that I was out of sorts this morning. I received a letter from my steward and there is urgent business at Pemberley that requires my personal handling. I had hoped to stay until you left Hertfordshire as well but I fear that I must leave tomorrow. I don't think I can bear a whole week without you."

She too felt a sudden rush of disappointment, so much so that she surprised herself. He was pleased to see it though for he had thought at times she seemed indifferent to him, at least changed from her previous sportive behavior and almost even reserved around him. He had felt that perhaps, it was due to the nervousness surrounding marriage but at other times, he felt that it was due to him - perhaps that she didn't care about him. The subtle look of disappointment on her face now helped reassure him. He smiled down at her and pulled her into his embrace.

She relished being in his grasp. She felt his strong arms around her and enjoyed the solace that they provided. She told him that it was only a week and soon they would be together always. She did not realize that this was like music to his ears. She reminded him soon he would be showing her his Pemberley, their Pemberley.

"Oh my darling, I have not forgotten and it gives me more joy than you can imagine to hear you call it 'our' Pemberley, for nothing gives me greater joy than to think of you there. But that reminds me," drawing back from her, "As to the matter of payment for your lodgings."

She smiled at him and leaned forward, gently planting a kiss on his lips.

The next morning Darcy called at Longbourn during breakfast to say his goodbyes. He was pressed by Mr. Bennet to join them, for every day Darcy had been rising in his estimations. He valued him, not only as a future son-in-law but also as a friend and advisor. In their discussions, Darcy had proved his wisdom which seemed greater than his years. He had shown how deeply he loved Elizabeth, and to Mr. Bennet, nothing showed greatness of mind over that. To the meal however, Darcy refused, saying that he must start off. As he made his way out the door, Elizabeth followed. "Remember my dear, only one week until you visit our home." He reached for her and when he did, she ran into his arms. He kissed her hair and gently made his way down for her mouth. It would be their last kiss for some time. "Goodbye my darling." He couldn't look back at her because he knew he would not have the fortitude to leave if he did.

She watched him ride until he was out of sight and still she did not move. The wind was blowing a gentle breeze at her causing a stray strand of her hair to cross her face. Lifting her hand to force it back into its pin, she touched her face and was surprised to find a lone tear had fallen.

Elizabeth's plan was to keep herself busy until it was time for her to leave Hertfordshire. She spent time helping her father build up his strength by walking with him. She had packing to do and other various chores around the house. She spent time with her younger sisters and her mother for her eldest was still busy with her amore. It took great pains to endure this, between the youngest girls' teasing and the mother's excitement over the wedding plans; she often was forced from the house.

She would walk to Oakham Mount or she would walk towards Netherfield, she walked around Longbourn where she and Darcy had gone together before. It did not matter where she went, she thought only of him and what marriage to him would mean. She began to be a little intimidated with the thought of running Pemberley but what she thought most of, was the way it felt when he touched her, when he kissed her. It felt life was much easier when she hated him, her feelings then when much easier to understand. Now she felt so much, admiration, pride in the fact that he chose her, excitement about seeing Pemberley and meeting Georgiana, and fear that she would not live up to his expectations. It was a humbly experience for her.

He had been gone but three days when his letter arrived. Her face felt a little flushed when her father told her of its arrival. She smiled, taking it from him, and took it to the little copse on the side of the house to read it.

My dearest,

How I miss you already. I wanted to let you know that I arrived safely to our home - for yes, it will be yours soon. The roads were clear and weather good but I must confess, I would have made better time if my thoughts were not always drifting to you from my concentration on the road!

I have told Georgiana that you are to come to us, and she is thrilled that she will get to meet her new sister even sooner. She insists that I enclose a note to you. I also told Mrs. Reynolds, our housekeeper so that some preparations are made before you arrive. The rest of the staff, we will tell together when you are ready so that it will not be so daunting when you arrive.

Arrive, my love, I can't wait until that happens - that you arrive home at Pemberley.

Until then,
FD

Attached was not a note from Georgiana for something so long could not be considered a mere note. Four pages had not been enough to describe her happiness, her wish that they be good friends, and to praise her brother. Elizabeth didn't know much about Miss Darcy. Wickham had called her proud and disagreeable. It was obvious that Fitzwilliam loved her and he praised her often, but this could be the result of the familiar relation. Miss Bingley often praised her too but Elizabeth had suspicions about this as well. She did not necessarily think that they were untrue but that Miss Bingley had other reasons for her praise.

She could not help but feel gratification from Georgiana's joyous words and truly looked forward to their meeting. Elizabeth sent a letter relating her mutual admiration, although restrained, of her brother and her pleasure at the thought that they would be meeting soon.

Elizabeth realized that she had another letter to write. Her good friend Charlotte and her husband Mr. Collins had been so kind as to escort her home to Hertfordshire in her father's illness but after staying a fortnight, they had returned home without seeing Elizabeth again. She had been keeping her vigil at her father's bedside and since they had left and her father recovered, she had spent all her time with Mr. Darcy or with Jane. She had neglected them too long and now that she had some time, she took up her pen.

My Dear Charlotte,

Please forgive my neglectfulness. I am sure that you have heard from your Hertfordshire relations that Papa is doing much better. He may never be the same again but, considering what we thought, it is truly been a miracle. I have to thank you for your kindness in accompanying me; it was very reassuring for me to have you so close by.

I'm afraid that I can't write you a proper letter even now. I'm preparing for another trip. My Aunt and Uncle Gardiner are taking me to tour Derbyshire with them for a few weeks. My aunt is from Lambton and has several acquaintances that she is anxious to renew. I promise a more detailed account of my journeys when I return.

Elizabeth

She knew that Charlotte had likely heard of her relationship with Mr. Darcy but did not feel that she should own it herself. Mr. Collins was too close to Mr. Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine. If he wanted his relations to know, it would be up to him to tell them.

Chapter Sixteen

Posted on Friday, 7 January 2005

As Elizabeth prepared for her trip the following day to Derbyshire, she joined her sisters and their mother in the drawing room for tea. It was to be her last gathering with just the females of the house for she planned to retire as soon as the dinner table was quit for the journey ahead of her would be long. Her youngest sisters unceremoniously were displaying the new, atrocious bonnet Lydia had just purchased in Meryton upon her entrance to the room. Lydia, as always proud of her purchases, eagerly displayed it to Lizzy. But when her sisters abused it as ugly, with perfect unconcern Lydia exclaimed, ``Oh! but there were two or three much uglier in the shop; and when I have bought some prettier colored satin to trim it with fresh, I think it will be very tolerable. Besides, it will not much signify what one wears this summer after the --shire have left Meryton, and they are going in a fortnight.''

``Are they indeed?'' cried Elizabeth, with the greatest surprise.

``They are going to be encamped near Brighton; and I do so want papa to take us all there for the summer! It would be such a delicious scheme, and I dare say would hardly cost any thing at all. Mamma would like to go too, would you not Mamma! Only think what a miserable summer else we shall have!''

``Yes,'' thought Elizabeth, ``that would be a delightful scheme, indeed, and completely do for us at once. Good Heaven! Brighton, and a whole camp full of soldiers, to us, who have been overset already by one poor regiment of militia, and the monthly balls of Meryton.''

``I am sure,'' said their mama, ``I cried for two days together when Colonel Millar's regiment went away. I thought I should have broken my heart.''

``I am sure I shall break mine,'' said Lydia.

``If one could but go to Brighton!'' observed Mrs. Bennet.

``Oh, yes! - if one could but go to Brighton! But papa is so disagreeable.'' On further inquiry, Elizabeth learned that on their immediate return, their father had been applied to for the immediate removal of the entire family to Brighton. The thought of the spectacle that her sisters would make of themselves was only relieved upon hearing his immediate refusal.

``A little sea-bathing would set me up for ever.''

``And my aunt Philips is sure it would do me a great deal of good,'' added Kitty.

Such were the kind of lamentations resounding perpetually through Longbourn-house. Elizabeth tried to be diverted by them; but all sense of pleasure was lost in shame. She felt anew the justice of Mr. Darcy's objections; and never had she before been so much disposed to pardon his interference in the views of his friend.

But the gloom of Lydia's prospect was shortly cleared away; for that very evening, she received an invitation from Mrs. Forster, the wife of the Colonel of the regiment, to accompany her to Brighton. This invaluable friend was a very young woman, and very lately married. A resemblance in good humor and good spirits had recommended her and Lydia to each other, and out of their three months' acquaintance they had been intimate two.

The rapture of Lydia on this occasion, her adoration of Mrs. Forster, the delight of Mrs. Bennet, and the mortification of Kitty, are scarcely to be described. Wholly inattentive to her sister's feelings, Lydia flew about the house in restless ecstasy, calling for everyone's congratulations, and laughing and talking with more violence than ever; whilst the luckless Kitty continued in the parlor repining at her fate in terms as unreasonable as her accent was peevish.

``I cannot see why Mrs. Forster should not ask me as well as Lydia,'' said she, ``though I am not her particular friend. I have just as much right to be asked as she has, and more too, for I am two years older.''

In vain did Elizabeth attempt to reason, and Jane to make her resigned. As for Elizabeth herself, this invitation was so far from exciting in her the same feelings as in her mother and Lydia, that she considered it as the death-warrant of all possibility of common sense for the latter; and detestable as such a step must make her were it known, she could not help secretly advising her father not to let her go. She represented to him all the improprieties of Lydia's general behavior, the little advantage she could derive from the friendship of such a woman as Mrs. Forster, and the probability of her being yet more imprudent with such a companion at Brighton, where the temptations must be greater than at home. He heard her attentively, and then said,

``Lydia will never be easy till she has exposed herself in some public place or other, and we can never expect her to do it with so little expense or inconvenience to her family as under the present circumstances.''

``If you were aware,'' said Elizabeth, ``of the very great disadvantage to us all, which must arise from the public notice of Lydia's unguarded and imprudent manner; nay, which has already arisen from it, I am sure you would judge differently in the affair.''

``Already arisen!'' repeated Mr. Bennet. ``What, has she frightened Mr. Darcy? Poor little Lizzy! I think not and if she does not make him turn away then I should not worry about any others.''

``Indeed you are mistaken, it is our importance, our respectability in the world, must be affected by the wild volatility, the assurance and disdain of all restraint which mark Lydia's character. Excuse me - for I must speak plainly. If you, my dear father, will not take the trouble of checking her exuberant spirits, and of teaching her that her present pursuits are not to be the business of her life, she will soon be beyond the reach of amendment. Her character will be fixed, and she will, at sixteen, be the most determined flirt that ever made herself and her family ridiculous. A flirt, too, in the worst and meanest degree of flirtation; without any attraction beyond youth and a tolerable person; and from the ignorance and emptiness of her mind, wholly unable to ward off any portion of that universal contempt which her rage for admiration will excite. In this danger Kitty is also comprehended. She will follow wherever Lydia leads. - Vain, ignorant, idle, and absolutely uncontrolled! Oh! my dear father, can you suppose it possible that they will not be censured and despised wherever they are known, and that their sisters and their husbands will not be often involved in the disgrace?''

Mr. Bennet saw that her whole heart was in the subject; and affectionately taking her hand, said in reply,

``Do not make yourself uneasy, my love. Wherever you and Jane are known, you must be respected and valued; and you will not appear to less advantage for having a couple of - or I may say, three - very silly sisters. I shall have no peace at Longbourn if Lydia does not go to Brighton. You are off to Derbyshire and then with Jane to London. Let her go then to her pleasure. Colonel Forster is a sensible man, and will keep her out of any real mischief; and she is luckily too poor to be an object of prey to any body. At Brighton she will be of less importance, even as a common flirt, than she has been here. The officers will find women better worth their notice. Let us hope, therefore, that her being there may teach her, her own insignificance. At any rate, she cannot grow many degrees worse without authorizing us to lock her up for the rest of her life.''

With this answer Elizabeth was forced to be content; but her own opinion continued the same, and she left him disappointed and sorry. It was not in her nature, however, to increase her vexations by dwelling on them. She was confident of having performed her duty, and to fret over unavoidable evils, or augment them by anxiety, was no part of her disposition. She had her own anxieties to attend; the prospect of her future home of which she was to be mistress loomed before her.

Had Lydia and her mother known the substance of her conference with her father, their indignation would hardly have found expression in their united volubility. In Lydia's imagination, a visit to Brighton comprised every possibility of earthly happiness. She saw, with the creative eye of fancy, the streets of that gay bathing place covered with officers. She saw herself the object of attention to tens and to scores of them at present unknown. She saw all the glories of the camp; its tents stretched forth in beauteous uniformity of lines, crowded with the young and the gay, and dazzling with scarlet; and to complete the view, she saw herself seated beneath a tent, tenderly flirting with at least six officers at once.

Had she known that her sister sought to tear her from such prospects and such realities as these, what would have been her sensations? They could have been understood only by her mother, who might have felt nearly the same.

Lydia's going to Brighton was all that consoled her for the melancholy conviction of her husband's never intending to go there himself.

And so Lizzy left them to their revelry, for she had her own trip to worry about. She could not help but confide in Jane that night.

"Oh Dear sister, how I wish that you were to go with me! At least you have seen Netherfield before you were engaged. I have heard such grand talk of Pemberley that I must admit that I should like to have your support with me on viewing it for the first time. And what will the servants think of this little country miss?"

"Lizzy, I have never known you not to be courageous, I'm sure that your spirits will rise to the occasion once it finally comes! And as to the servants, they will love you as Mr. Darcy does I'm sure. I shall miss you though and will try to think forward to our trip to London. I'm afraid that my nieces and nephews will keep me so busy that I will have time to think of little else."

With a sisterly hug, they bid each other good night.

Chapter Seventeen

Posted on Friday, 14 January 2005

At first light, the traveling party set off in their carriage. The trip to Derbyshire passed quickly enough. It had been some time since Elizabeth had enjoyed the company of her favorite aunt and uncle. Upon their arrival at Longbourn the evening prior to their departure, Elizabeth had allowed her family time to visit their relations. She would have the carriage ride to converse with them. So the hours flew by in their idle chatter.

As they approached Derbyshire and the road to Pemberley, her relations noted a change in her countenance. Whether it was now foreboding or awe that had caused the change, they were uncertain. She was definitely less attentive but they assumed it was in anticipation of seeing her beloved.

Elizabeth, as they drove along, watched for the first appearance of Pemberley Woods with some perturbation; and when at length they turned in at the lodge, her spirits were in a high flutter. The park was very large, and contained great variety of ground. They entered it in one of its lowest points, and drove for some time through a beautiful wood, stretching over a wide extent.

Elizabeth's mind was too full for conversation, but she saw and admired every remarkable spot and point of view. They gradually ascended for half a mile, and then found themselves at the top of a considerable eminence, where the wood ceased, and the eye was instantly caught by Pemberley House, situated on the opposite side of a valley, into which the road, with some abruptness, wound. It was a large, handsome, stone building, standing well on rising ground, and backed by a ridge of high woody hills; - and in front, a stream of some natural importance was swelled into greater, but without any artificial appearance. Its banks were neither formal, nor falsely adorned. Elizabeth was delighted. She had never seen a place for which nature had done more, or where natural beauty had been so little counteracted by an awkward taste. They were all of them warm in their admiration; and at that moment she realized that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something!

They descended the hill, crossed the bridge, and drove to the door; and, while examining the nearer aspect of the house, her anticipation of meeting its owner returned.

The housekeeper came out onto the drive on their approach; a respectable-looking, elderly woman, much less fine, and more civil, than she had any notion of finding her.

"Ah, Miss Bennet, I presume. I'm Mrs. Reynolds, the housekeeper. I knew that it would be a beautiful young lady that finally tempted my master and I see that it is so!" She was so warm and friendly, Elizabeth was almost taken aback but her concern was more about looking about for the family of the house who did not appear.

"I'm afraid I bear bad tidings. Mr. Darcy and Miss Darcy were called away by the birth of the steward's first son. They did not expect you for some time yet or I am sure that Mr. Darcy, after his pacing all morning, would have not left sight of the road. It was only after Miss Darcy insistence that they must go, that he relented. Until they return, I will show you to your rooms and give you a tour of the house if that is to your liking."

"Yes, thank you, Mrs. Reynolds, I should like that very much. Please allow me to present my uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner."

"Very pleased to meet you all, yes, very pleased."

After freshening up, they met her in the dining-parlour. It was a large, well-proportioned room, handsomely fitted up. Elizabeth, after slightly surveying it, went to a window to enjoy its prospect. The hill, crowned with wood, from which they had descended, receiving increased abruptness from the distance, was a beautiful object.

Every disposition of the ground was good; and she looked on the whole scene - the river, the trees scattered on its banks, and the winding of the valley, as far as she could trace it - with delight. As they passed into other rooms, these objects were taking different positions; but from every window there were beauties to be seen. The rooms were lofty and handsome, and their furniture suitable to the fortune of their proprietor; but Elizabeth saw, with admiration of his taste, that it was neither gaudy nor uselessly fine; with less of splendor, and more real elegance, than the furniture of Rosings.

``And of this place,'' thought she, ``I am to be mistress! With these rooms I will be familiarly acquainted!"

Her aunt now called her to look at a picture. She approached, and saw the likeness of Mr. Wickham suspended, amongst several other miniatures, over the mantelpiece. Her aunt asked her, smilingly, how she liked it. The housekeeper came forward, and told them it was the picture of a young gentleman, the son of her late master's steward, who had been brought up by him at his own expense. - ``He is now gone into the army,'' she added, ``but I am afraid he has turned out very wild.''

Mrs. Gardiner looked at her niece with a smile, but Elizabeth could not return it. Obviously, Mr. Darcy's dislike of Wickham was translated to his employees. She cannot know how Mr. Darcy wronged Wickham.

``And that,'' said Mrs. Reynolds, pointing to another of the miniatures, ``of course you know is my master - and very like him don't you agree? It was drawn at the same time as the other - about eight years ago.''

``Yes, it is very handsome.''

``I am sure I know none so handsome; but in the gallery up stairs you will see a finer, larger picture of him than this. This room was my late master's favorite room, and these miniatures are just as they used to be then. He was very fond of them.''

This accounted to Elizabeth for Mr. Wickham's being among them.

Mrs. Reynolds then directed their attention to one of Miss Darcy, drawn when she was only eight years old.

``And is Miss Darcy as handsome as her brother?'' said Mr. Gardiner.

``Oh! yes - the handsomest young lady that ever was seen; and so accomplished! - She plays and sings all day long. In the next room is a new instrument just come down for her - a present from my master.''

Mr. Gardiner, whose manners were easy and pleasant, encouraged her communicativeness by his questions and remarks; Mrs. Reynolds, either from pride or attachment, had evidently great pleasure in talking of her master and his sister.

``Is your master much at Pemberley in the course of the year?''

``Not so much as I could wish, Sir; but I dare say he may spend half his time here; and Miss Darcy is always down for the summer months.''

``Now that your master shall be married, you may see more of him.''

``Yes, sir; that is what I hope and for the house to be filled with children once more, now that he has found someone who is good enough for him.''

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner smiled. Elizabeth, blushing, could not help saying, ``It is very much to his credit, I am sure, that you should think so.''

The housekeeper added, ``He is a most excellent man, miss. I have never had a cross word from him in my life, and I have known him ever since he was four years old. If I was to go through the world, I could not meet with a better. But I have always observed that they who are good-natured when children are good-natured when they grow up; and he was always the sweetest-tempered, most generous-hearted, boy in the world.''

``His father was an excellent man,'' said Mrs. Gardiner.

``Yes, Ma'am, that he was indeed; and his son will be just like him - just as affable to the poor.''

``He is the best landlord, and the best master,'' said she, ``that ever lived. Not like the wild young men nowadays, who think of nothing but themselves. There is not one of his tenants or servants but what will give him a good name. Some people call him proud; but I am sure I never saw any thing of it. To my fancy, it is only because he does not rattle away like other young men.''

``In what an amiable light does this place him!'' thought Elizabeth.

On reaching the spacious lobby above, they were shown into a very pretty sitting-room, lately fitted up with greater elegance and lightness than the apartments below; and were informed that it was but just done to give pleasure to Miss Darcy, who had taken a liking to the room when last at Pemberley.

``He is certainly a good brother,'' said Elizabeth, as she walked towards one of the windows.

``And this is always the way with him,'' she added. - ``Whatever can give his sister any pleasure is sure to be done in a moment. There is nothing he would not do for her.''

"Your rooms are just guest rooms, I told Mr. Darcy that they were not fitting the Mistress of Pemberley but he insisted. Said that you would prefer time to become acquainted with the estate before letting all the servants know who you are - or should I say who you are to be!"

"Yes, that was our wish and I thank you. But please be assured, that our rooms are more than satisfactory."

"I'm glad to hear that miss and I'm sure that you will love it here."

The picture gallery, and two or three of the principal bedrooms, were all that remained to be shown. In the former were many good paintings; but Elizabeth knew nothing of the art; and from such as had been already visible below, she had willingly turned to look at some drawings of Miss Darcy's, in crayons, whose subjects were usually more interesting, and also more intelligible.

In the gallery there were many family portraits, but they could have little to fix the attention of a stranger. Elizabeth walked on in quest of the only face whose features would be known to her. At last it arrested her - and she beheld a striking resemblance of Mr. Darcy, with such a smile over the face as she remembered to have sometimes seen, when he looked at her. She stood several minutes before the picture in earnest contemplation, and returned to it again before they quitted the gallery. Mrs. Reynolds informed them that it had been taken in his father's life time.

There was certainly at this moment, in Elizabeth's mind, a warm sense of pride. The commendation bestowed on him by Mrs. Reynolds was of no trifling nature. What praise is more valuable than the praise of an intelligent servant? As a brother, a landlord, a master, she considered how many people's happiness were in his guardianship! - How much of pleasure or pain it was in his power to bestow! - How much of good or evil must be done by him! Every idea that had been brought forward by the housekeeper was favorable to his character, and as she stood before the canvas, on which he was represented, and fixed his eyes upon herself, she thought of his regard with a deeper sentiment of gratitude and love than she had ever felt. It was pleasing to hear of him from others who had the privilege of knowing him longer.

When all of the house had been seen, they returned down stairs, and, Mrs. Reynolds suggested that they view the gardens while she had tea set up in the drawing room. And thus, they were consigned over to the gardener, who met them at the hall door.

As they walked across the lawn towards the river, Elizabeth turned back to look again; her uncle and aunt stopped also, and while the former was conjecturing as to the date of the building, the owner of it himself suddenly came forward from the road, which led behind it to the stables.

Their eyes instantly met, and the cheeks of each were overspread with the deepest blush. He absolutely started, and for a moment seemed immoveable from surprise; but shortly recovering himself, advanced towards the party, and spoke to Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth, I mean Miss Bennet, I cannot tell you the pleasure it gives me to see you here at Pemberley. I hope you have not been waiting long."

Assuring him that she had not and having been given reassurances from Mrs. Reynolds that he would soon return, he gave him to know how happy she was to be there. He greeted her companions and taking her hand and placing it on his arm; she was led by him back into the house to be introduced to his sister.

As they approached the house, she was quite amazed at her own discomposure; but amongst other causes of disquiet, she dreaded lest the partiality of the brother should have said too much in her favor; and more than commonly anxious to please, she naturally suspected that every power of pleasing would fail her.

With astonishment did Elizabeth see that her new acquaintance was at least as much embarrassed as herself. From Wickham, she had heard that Miss Darcy was exceedingly proud; but the observation of a very few minutes convinced her that she was only exceedingly shy. She found it difficult to obtain even a word from her beyond a monosyllable.

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

She could tell that Miss Darcy was pleased to meet her and that she admired her brother with soft, loving eyes. She deferred to him for a moment and Elizabeth noticed him giving his sister an encouraging nod. Miss Darcy, turned back to her guests and in an almost inaudible voice said, "Miss Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, allow my brother and I to welcome you to Pemberley. Would you please join for tea in the drawing room?"

Elizabeth, realizing how hard that was for Miss Darcy for it was obvious that she did not enjoy playing the hostess, accepted on their behalf. Darcy came immediately forward to offer his arm and they entered the drawing room.

Chapter Eighteen

Posted on Friday, 14 January 2005

The drawing room that had been empty while viewed during their tour was now bustling with commotion. They were joined by Mrs. Annesley, Miss Darcy's companion, who appeared to Elizabeth to be a gentile sort of woman. Mrs. Annesley, on being introduced to Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, entered into conversation with the latter on hearing that she had grown up in Lambton, only five miles from Pemberley.

Several servants were carrying in trays of the finest fruits that the season provided; there were also cold meats and a various array of confections. It was an elegant table that was sure, obviously fitted to please Pemberley's guests and future mistress. Elizabeth smiled warmly at Darcy and gently squeezed her hand on his arm to show her appreciation. The look he returned to her was one of a boy who had succeeded in his endeavor to please. There was a warm gentleness in his eyes, a look of true adoration for her.

Mr. Darcy escorted her to the settee by the fire and to her utter surprise, left her there and approached Mr. Gardiner across the room for conversation. Elizabeth was confused and disappointed by this but then his motives became clear when Miss Darcy took her usual seat across from her. He was trying to encourage conversation between the two and knew that this would be best achieved by lack of his interference. She smiled at him to explain that she understood and made her best attempts to please him.

"Miss Darcy, your brother tells me that you are very fond of music and Mrs. Reynolds says that you play and sing all day."

"Oh yes, I am fond of music, Miss Bennet, but I understand that is something we share in common for my brother tells me nothing gives him more pleasure that to hear your performance."

"I assure you that he has grossly exaggerated my abilities, for I would not want you to be disappointed, must be for some mischievous reasons, no doubt." Elizabeth notices a slight look of distress on the young woman's face.

"Oh no, my brother always tell the truth - except sometimes I think he is too kind to me."

"An ideal older brother then. You make me jealous, for I have no brothers, only four silly sisters!"

"I am so looking forward to having a sister." This outburst of emotion was more than the young girl was used to displaying and she was forced to drop her gaze while her cheeks crimsoned in a blush.

Elizabeth smiled, deeply touched by her comment, decided to turn the subject back to music to the great relief of her partner. They discussed musical pieces as well as their favorite composers for the next hour until Elizabeth convinced Georgiana to take her place at the piano forte by promising to turn the pages for her. Georgiana begged to only play for she could not sing in front of so many people. Elizabeth relented and followed her future sister to the new instrument.

For a girl so young, it was evident that Miss Darcy was very accomplished. While her playing lacked the same feeling as Elizabeth's, she was more proficient in mechanics. Darcy could not help but watch the ladies with admiration, one with the familiar regard often felt by parents and the other with a deep love. He had always felt that Elizabeth would be a good influence for Georgiana; he had not imagined though, that on her first visit she would get her to perform as she was doing now.

Upon the conclusion of Georgiana's recital, Elizabeth was prevailed upon to take up the instrument. Although fatigued from the day's traveling, one look from Darcy imploring her to play was all it took and she took her place. Darcy was transfixed; there was nothing in the room now but Elizabeth and the wonderful sounds she was producing. Her aunt and uncle could not help but notice the adoration in his eyes and upon her finishing; Elizabeth could not help but notice it either.

Before she could be prevailed upon to perform again, dinner was announced and the party was moved into the formal dining room. After eating such a luxurious tea and the glorious meal before her now, Elizabeth could not help but feel fatigue setting in. Her uncle and aunt were also feeling the effects of the day and declared their intentions of retiring directly if Miss Darcy did not object.

Miss Darcy, unaccustomed to performing the task of hostess, looked to her brother for support. "Of course, you must be fatigued. Please forgive us for keeping you this late." Elizabeth could tell from his expression he was disappointed but being the good host, he must allow them to retire. The party rose, and after thanking their hosts for their hospitality, bid their good nights. Before she could leave, Mr. Darcy grabbed her hand, drawing it slowly to his lips adding, "Welcome home, Miss Bennet and good night."

Elizabeth felt apprehensive entering her bed chamber. Although, it would soon be her home, it felt odd to be there, under his roof before she was lawfully his wife. She walked around the room, taking it all in as she gently ran her fingers around table in the center of the room. She noticed all her belongings had been placed in the closet, her bedclothes laid out, and the bed was turned back.

She walked over to the bed and gingerly sat down next to her garment. She felt her heart flutter and realized that he would see her wearing this on her next trip to Pemberley. She drew the garment up in her hands paying attention for the first time to its thinness. This and only this, she thought when startled out of her trance. She jumped immediately from the bed as a child about to be scolded. It was only a knock at her bed chamber door that had caused her to start but it was more the thought of who was at her door. As she beckoned the party in, she was relieved that it was a young woman, a servant of the household.

"Beg your pardon, Miss, I'm Molly, I'm to be your personal maid with your approval of course." She was a bit older than Elizabeth, maybe 24, a pretty girl although stout in stature. That she was Irish was evident from the brogue that tinted her speech, and from her dark hair and deep green eyes. "I have been under maid to Miss Darcy for the last two years and Mrs. Reynolds has told me that if I do well that I may be the maid to the new mistress when she arrives. She said that in the mean time that I could practice on you, Miss, if you did not mind and that you were a fine young lady."

"Molly, I am pleased to meet you and I'm sure you will do fine." Molly helped Elizabeth dress for bed and to take the pins from her hair. Elizabeth moved to the dressing table for Molly to brush out her long hair for her.

Elizabeth noticed that her grooming set was missing and that a beautiful, intricate sterling silver set was laid there. Elizabeth picked up the mirror to admire it and noticed the initial "ED" engraved on the handle. She smiled at the gift and passed the brush to Molly. When Elizabeth thanked for her help and bid her goodnight, she vowed to return at eight in the morning. She seemed a good girl and she appreciated the fact that Mrs. Reynolds had not told the young girl who her charge really was.

Elizabeth thought to tell her herself but knowing how servants like to gossip, she thought that it was not yet the time.

She crawled into her bed and enjoyed the closeness as the blankets enveloped around her. Her thoughts, however, were in another part of Pemberley, that part where he was. She rubbed her hand gently, still able to feel the warmth of his lips on it and the warmth in his face as he welcomed her home. Her thoughts were still thus engaged as she drifted off to sleep.

Elizabeth seemed to be in a fog, lost in a dream, unable to figure out where she was. In the distance she could see a chair with a man sitting in it. She tried to make out the figure, she tried in vain to make her eyes focus on the figure but just couldn't seem to make it out. Finally the fog thinned as her eyes opened wider, it was Fitzwilliam. "I am dreaming," she thought aloud and closed her eyes once more.

"If you are dreaming, my love, I am glad to know that I am a part of it!"

The response shocked her back to reality, "Fitzwilliam Darcy, what are you doing in here?? Have you lost your senses? What if one of the servants had seen you entering my chamber, or worse yet, Georgiana?"

"Shhhh, my darling, I assure you that no one saw me enter this chamber and do you know how beautiful you are when you are mad? But then again, dressed like that, I can't imagine that you would not look beautiful."

Suddenly, she realized her state of undress and pulled the covers up to protect her modesty. Darcy laughed at the effort and although, always the gentlemen in his actions, could not help but think what it would be like to be next to her every night. "Fitzwilliam, really, you must leave, what if my aunt or uncle should see you!"

"But that is a bad argument my love, for what would they do? Force me to marry you? I would do that tomorrow if you would but permit it so that is only an inducement." His tone became more serious now for he could see that she was truly distressed. "Relax, no one saw me enter, of that I am certain, and if you really want me to leave, I shall. But please, allow me to stay and talk to you for a few minutes before I go, won't you?"

Her regard soften but asked him, "how can you be certain that no one saw you?"

His amused grin reappeared, "Hmmmm, do you promise not be shocked if I tell you? Pemberley holds many secrets as did Darcy men of old. My great, great grandfather had Pemberley built and there is more to it than meets the eye. You see, as a young boy, I discovered it has hidden passageways, one leading from my bedchamber to this very room. I believe he kept prospective mistresses here but I prefer to think that it was my great, great grandmother, his intended. I paced my room for a full hour wondering what you were doing before I remembered that the passage was there and you were in this very room."

Elizabeth could not help but laugh and soon he joined in. "I just happen to be in this room. I'm sure that there was nothing happenstance about it. Alright sir, you may stay but for only ten minutes, and then you must go. What if a servant should notice you are missing?"

"I assure you, my love, Mrs. Reynolds assigned you to this room. I intended for you to be in my mother's old chambers, which has an adjoining door with mine, but the servants would know that you were their future mistress so I left it up to Mrs. Reynolds. Remind me to give her a raise! Actually, if you were in my mother's old rooms, I would never have let you leave here, once you were in your intended place. And I promise, no one shall know that I was here."

She glanced at the dressing table in the corner, "Thank you for the lovely gift, Fitzwilliam, you are spoiling me!"

"It gives me great pleasure and try to get used to it my love. And if that is how your hair looks after using it, it was money well spent."

They spent the next ten minutes in discussion. They had not really talked nor had a moment alone since her arrival. She told him how glad she was to meet his sister and what a lovely girl she was. "You should be proud of her Fitzwilliam; no parent could have done a better job with her. I am sure, though, that she has been an easy charge."

His face betrayed him. "Yes, she is a wonderful sister and I am glad that you will be here for her. I fear that she has not always had someone in which she could confide, and I hope that you would like to be that person." This was his reply but his countenance implied that he had found the task trying at times.

She thought of her own sisters and the contrast between them and Miss Darcy. What would seem a trial to Fitzwilliam would seem like nothing to Elizabeth after her experiences with her own sisters. "I shall be honored to be if she would do so but I must insist that you leave now! Your ten minutes were up some time ago. My maid will be here early and I should like to be awake when she arrives!"

"Alright my beloved, but let me steal a kiss before I go." He rose and approached her, gently placing his knee on the bed and bending down to kiss her. He lightly touched his lips to hers and started to pull away, but instead leaned in and kissed her more fervently than before. Starting to feel her senses losing their resolve, she gently pushed him away.

"Please my darling, you must go."

He rose and walked to panel to the left of the fireplace. Reaching up, he did something she could not make out, and the panel swung open. He glanced back and wished her goodnight.

"Goodnight, Fitzwilliam, I shall see you at breakfast. Oh, and the first thing that I'm going to do as Mistress of Pemberley is to make sure that passage is forever sealed."

"As you wish, my lady." And with a slight, mocking bow, disappeared behind the closing panel.

Chapter Nineteen

Posted on Friday, 14 January 2005

And so a fortnight was happily passed for Elizabeth. She spent her days walking the grounds with Darcy, talking to him, and getting to know him better. She could not believe that this was the man that she had thought so proud for she felt so comfortable in his presence now that she could not imagine ever being parted from him. Pemberley too, its vast expanse, woods and streams, now felt like home to her. She could see what Pemberley meant to him and how greatly he loved it for now she could see why. He took great pains to show to her all the spots that were his favorites, places that he had never before shared with anyone.

The rooms of the house were also beginning to be familiar to her. She knew where Darcy would sit when he entered a room or which window from which he would approach to seek the view. She found that he would alter his path if she were not in it and this gratified and pleased her.

In her alone time, which was not great, she would walk the gallery and stare at the faces. She could now identify several of the portraits that on her first tour were of no interest to her, but now, seeing how important his heritage was to him, she learned who his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles contained within were. Of the greatest interest to her was Anne Darcy. A stately figure to be sure but her portrait showed warmth and good humor in her eyes, eyes that seemed to her to be like her own. Mrs. Darcy had dark hair and fair skin like Elizabeth's, and although she could see slight similarities between Mrs. Darcy and her sister, Lady Catherine, she could sense the differences in their personalities just from the tenderness in her face.

Darcy, much more often than he cared for, was obliged to see to estate business. He had long neglected it while staying with Bingley in Hertfordshire so to be near Elizabeth, and although he wanted nothing more than to spend all the day by her side, he could not. Whenever he was forced to leave her, he made attempts to forward her relationship with Georgiana. He would make plans or excursions for them when he could not be with them such as a trip to the milliners or a carriage ride around the park. Mrs. Gardiner joined them often but on several occasions was happy to be back in the environs of her youth and would seek out old acquaintances. Her husband divided his time between his wife, joining Mr. Darcy, or indulging a favorite pastime, fishing. Darcy was happy for his advice for he found Mr. Gardiner an educated, articulate man whose advice seemed sound and astute.

Elizabeth understood Darcy's desire for her to become acquainted with his sister and it was something that she truly desired herself. She had found Georgiana to be a sweet but shy young girl that looked up to her brother more than any personage in the land. For their first few trips together, it was Elizabeth who started every conversation and who prodded it along but as Georgiana became more comfortable and familiar with Elizabeth, then it was she who to Elizabeth's surprise, did most to of the talking!

One particular visit seemed to spark this newfound voice in Georgiana, their first trip to the some of the neighbors. Georgiana was in the habit of visiting some of the tenants of Pemberley to see how they were doing, playing with their children, and bringing food to some of the older tenants. Elizabeth was amazed at the pains Georgiana took to make sure that no one wanted for anything that was in her power to give. If a child was sick, she arranged for the doctor. If the house was cold, she arranged for firewood to be delivered. If Georgiana did not see adequate food about, a basket was sent from the great house. Elizabeth truly enjoyed these special times with Georgiana and hoped to continue them when she was mistress of Pemberley.

Elizabeth could not believe that anyone who knew Georgiana like this would ever conceive that she was proud.

Elizabeth had never met a person so giving, not just in goods, but also from her heart. She could not understand how Wickham, who had grown up at Pemberley, could say such things of Miss Darcy.

It was agreed that Elizabeth would be introduced as Miss Darcy's friend from Hertfordshire, for no one except the family party still knew of their engagement. Elizabeth felt strangely though that somehow people knew. It was not from what they said but more from the way they said it. She felt it from the warmth of their greetings and the way they looked at her. It was almost as they were sizing her up and she was relieved that she seemed to be acceptable in some way to them. Her suspicions were confirmed one night with Molly.

As she was preparing to retire, Molly was brushing out Elizabeth's hair. Molly was in the habit of humming as she did so and Elizabeth found it very relaxing having the slow repetitive strokes to her hair in time with Molly's tune. This particular evening as Molly was in the middle of this task, she stopped abruptly, exclaiming, "It's true!"

"What's true?" Elizabeth asked. She noticed in the mirror's reflection that Molly was looking at the brush and upon Elizabeth's inquiry, tried to return to task, but Elizabeth could not help but notice the blush on her face.

"Begging your pardon, Miss. I don't know what came over me."

Suddenly, Elizabeth realized that what made Molly stop - looking at the mirror still on the dressing table, she remembered the initials ED on her brush. The secret was out, she knew it. "Molly, you are probably wondering why the initials on my brush set are ED and not EB, is that correct?"

"Oh no, Miss Bennet, that is none of my business, perhaps they are a family heirloom passed down to you." Her voice strained to sound convincing but her eyes showed that she was making excuses.

Elizabeth had thought when she met Molly that perhaps she should own up to her true identity, Mr. Darcy's fiancée. She knew in her heart that Molly knew the truth and now felt terribly guilty for not trusting her with the truth. She was genuinely fond of Molly and was afraid that their relationship would be forever marred by this secret.

"Molly," Elizabeth turned to face Molly now and not just look at her through the mirror's eyes, "if I tell you a secret, will you promise to tell me something?"

Elizabeth could see that Molly was pondering if she should accept this offer, wondering if it would be the correct thing to do. Hesitantly, she answered, "Yes, miss, if it is in my power to answer your question."

"You noticed the initials on my brush set, did you not?" When Molly nodded affirmatively, she continued, "I wish that I had told you this before and I hope that you will forgive me. I am very fond of you Molly and I have let Mrs. Reynolds know that. The brush set was a gift, a gift from my fiancée."

"Oh Miss, congratulations! How thoughtful that your fiancée would buy you such a gift - they are beautiful. When are you to be married?" True joy effused across the young girl's face.

"But Molly, you do not ask who my betrothed is."

Molly looked taken back; she knew that she had made a mistake here. "I imagined that if it were my business Miss that you would tell me. It is not for me to ask."

"Fair enough, Molly. In a few months time I shall be married and then my name will be Elizabeth Darcy - ED. Now, I don't believe that you are as surprised as you are trying to look and no, I'm not angry with you as I hope that you are not angry with me for not telling you. Mr. Darcy and I decided it would be easier for me to visit Pemberley without the staff or anyone else for that matter knowing who I was to become. This way it would be less intimidating for me."

"I understand Miss and I could never be mad at you after all the kindness that you have shown me!"

"I thank you Molly, but now I have to ask, what did you mean when you said 'it's true'?"

Molly looked uncomfortable but she knew that she would have to respond. "Well Miss, there has been speculation among the servants, Miss, as to that possibility. I assure you Miss that I have not been or would be involved in idle servant chatter but as it was the discussion at the servants' dinner table, I could not help but overhear it."

"Speculation - why? What have they said?"

"Miss, the servants, myself included can not help but see how Mr. Darcy looks at you and the amount of time he spends with you, or how he tries to make sure that you have every comfort. While he is always attentive to his guests, he has never been SO attentive, if you understand me, Miss. And we servants, have long hoped to see Mr. Darcy happily married, he is such a good and kindly man and we long to see him happy."

It was well known to Elizabeth by this time that Mr. Darcy was loved by his servants but she could not help but be pleased to hear it affirmed by one of them in such an affectionate way. "Molly, thank you for telling me. I only ask that you keep my secret for one more day if you can."

"Of course Miss, you can be assured of my silence."

"And Molly, if it is still your wish, I plan to have you attend me when I am Mrs. Darcy."

"Oh, thank you Miss, you have made me so happy!" With that Molly finished brushing out Elizabeth's hair, helped her dress to retire, and bid her good night.

Elizabeth suspected that Darcy still used the passage nightly to visit her even though she must have been asleep when he did it. It was comforting for her in a way, like he was her guardian angel while she slept. He had never mentioned it to her but she noticed several mornings that the chair he had sat in on that first meeting had been moved from its place - just ever so slightly. Nothing that a servant would pay attention to for it could have been Elizabeth herself that moved it but since she knew she had not and no one else had been there, she concluded that he had been there.

After Molly's discovery and subsequent confession, she decided that it was the greatest import that she talk to him privately and the best way to achieve that would be to wait for him. She picked up the book that she had brought up to her room and began reading to pass the time. It was a new book that had been a gift from Darcy to Georgiana and that Georgiana had recommended to her. She laughed because it dealt with the prospects of marriages of three sisters who, not unlike herself, were without a large dowry. She became enthralled in the tale of the Dashwoods but, as it was very late, felt her eyes closing after a few chapters, even though she was sitting up in bed. Her eyes started to blur and she was about to give up. Maybe he had not actually been there. She thought that she could see the passage opening and forced herself to focus. Yes, indeed it was.

"Elizabeth, why are you awake?" Darcy called to her more fearful that something was amiss than that he had been caught.

"I thought you were sneaking in here still; wipe that sheepish grin off Fitzwilliam Darcy! I suspected that you were coming in here and I needed to talk to you."

His concern was momentary. She explained to him what had transpired between her and Molly. She told him that she felt the tenants knew too from their welcome - that is was not the welcome that she would have proposed for a mere acquaintance of the family or for that matter for a particular friend of Miss Darcy's. She told him that she feared that anger would follow if they continued.

"I assure you that no one could be angry at you my darling, but I understand your concern. Perhaps, if you are ready, we should formally introduce you now. Anyway, now you could wear this." He produced a small box acknowledging that he had been carrying it around for some time.

"Fitzwilliam, you will spoil me!" She opened the box to find a beautiful ring with a large emerald stone surrounded by small diamonds. "It is too much! I can't accept this."

"Elizabeth, my father gave this to my mother and now I'm giving it to you. Of course, all of the Darcy jewels will be yours with the exception of things explicitly left to Georgiana, not that you could wear them everyday but I would be please me to see you wear this." He smiled as he slid it on her delicate finger and then lifted it to his mouth where he gently kissed it. "Anyway, I've been carrying it around since you have arrived but knew if the servants saw you with it, they would know. But since it is evident that they are on to us, it is now yours and on your hand where it belongs. I shall arrange that after breakfast that Mrs. Reynolds shall assemble the staff and I can make the announcement, if that is agreeable to you? We will have to make some visits to prominent neighbors as well - shall we begin tomorrow afternoon lunch?"

She agreed with his plan and bid him goodnight although he did not want to leave. She insisted, especially now that everyone would know - not that was any more reason but she felt that the Mistress of Pemberley should not allow anything near a scandal. He relented, kissing her hand and as he started to walk away, he looked back and he could not resist her. He approached the bed once more putting his left hand to her cheek. Gently he stroked his hand backwards until it was in her hair and at the back of her head. He gently pulled her to him and indulged in a passionate kiss. The feel of her warmth next to him was almost too much to bear for him. Without the confines of her usual garments he could feel the outline of her curves next to him and the warm of her skin through his hand on her back. He began to trail his kiss across her cheek and for a moment, just held her in his embrace. Her unencumbered hair was soft and luxurious to his touch. He breathed in deeply enjoying the scent of her and could not help himself from kissing her neck. He moved his kisses down until he got to the small of her shoulder. He heard Elizabeth whisper his name in a warning and knew he had better leave or he would be forgetting himself.

"Oh Elizabeth, forgive me my love, you don't know what you do to me!" He pulled away and moved toward the fireplace. He stopped there to look at her; she was blushing and looking radiant from the color. "Good night my love, good night!" He slowly disappeared behind the panels.

Elizabeth tried as she might to sleep but she was under the mighty weight of her mind. First, tomorrow everyone would know and somehow, she was worried that the servants and neighbors would not approve of her. Second, she could not help but notice the weight of the ring on her finger. She had never touched anything like it, it was beautiful and emerald was her favorite stone. She had felt that Pemberley was home but now she felt as if she now somehow belonged to it because of the ring - she felt that somehow she belonged to him now.

Chapter Twenty

Posted on Friday, 14 January 2005

Molly arrived in Elizabeth's bedchamber at her usual hour unaware that her future mistress had been pacing the room since before the sun rose. She was dressed already but awaited Molly to dress her hair and to prevent her from going downstairs prematurely. She was quite nervous knowing that today her status would change from guest to future lady of the house. As she had paced, she fingered the ring on her left hand, occasionally stopping to stare at it. She felt his reassuring presence and warmth from the cold stone. But this reassurance would only temporarily exist and then her nerves would reappear.

Molly's arrival brought butterflies to her stomach for she knew that soon they would breakfast and then make the fateful announcement. Molly could not help but notice the beautiful ring on Elizabeth's hand and commented, "Miss that is a beautiful ring!"

"Oh thank you Molly, it belonged to Mrs. Darcy." Elizabeth recalled that Molly had put her to bed and was seeing her first thing in the morning so she added the Mr. Darcy had given it to her before but since their engagement was not announced, she did not dare to wear it. It was a lie but she could not bear for Molly to think unapprovingly of Mr. Darcy. This almost seemed odd to her since she herself had thought so ill of him in the recent past.

"But you are wearing it now?" Molly questioned and Elizabeth revealed what the morning would bring. "Oh miss, I'm so happy for you! We will have to do your hair extra special today!" True to her word, Elizabeth smiled at her reflection in the mirror; she had never felt more beautiful. She thanked Molly and headed to the dining room.

When Elizabeth entered, the rest of the party was assembled. She bid the others good morning and went about making her plate. Her usual place was on Darcy's right and when she took her place, she subconsciously placed her left hand bearing the Darcy ring in her lap. Under the table, she felt his hand take hers and looked to see him smiling at her knowing that she needed his reassurance. He gently pulled her hand to the top of the table and placed it so that all may see the ring. It was not that he wanted to show off his material goods but that he wanted all to know that she was his, that he loved her and that he wanted to share everything that made up his world with her.

He did not go so far as to hold her hand at the table, which would not be what he considered proper decorum but he didn't have to. The ever-observant footman noticed the ring immediately and before long the house was a buzz. Georgiana had made plans to take the Gardiners to visit Lambton; she was very surprised that when she begged leave from him that he refused. All eyes turned to Darcy.

"My dear guests and my dear Georgiana, I must beg that you postpone your outing just a little bit. I fear that I can wait no longer and a beg you all to join me in the great hall." He mysteriously left the table and disappeared from the room. All eyes turned on Elizabeth to explain his strange behavior and Elizabeth could not help but feel the color rise to her cheeks. Georgiana looked at her questionably and then she too noticed the ring. The excitement she felt glowed in her features.

She exclaimed, "Tell me, may I now acknowledge you as my sister?"

"I don't know about 'sister' but I believe future sister would be acceptable."

"Oh Elizabeth," she said hugging her dear friend, "I have been dying to tell everyone! This is wonderful!!!"

"I think that you should contain yourself Georgiana until your brother gives you leave!" Elizabeth could not help laughing at Georgiana's enthusiasm.

"Well, come on - what are you waiting for!" Darcy exclaimed in good humor when he reappeared at the door.

Elizabeth was the last of the family party to enter the main hall. Servants seemed to be coming from everywhere, hurriedly taking their places which seemed to be pre-assigned positions. She had not realized how many servants there were until she saw them assembling. It would have been daunting to most, but she felt her courage rising. She could do this; she would do this and she would make him proud of her. Finally, the grooms arrived and it appeared that the assembly was complete.

"I am sure that you are all aware that we have had guests here at Pemberley this past fortnight. I want to congratulate you all on your fine work in making them feel welcome."

As Elizabeth listened to Darcy's words, she looked about the servants. She saw Mrs. Reynolds smiling lovingly at Mr. Darcy. Tears were welling in her eyes, tears of obvious joy. Behind her stood Molly, she was smiling proudly at her new mistress. Elizabeth was taken back to Darcy's words when she felt him take her hand.

"But now I must ask your congratulations for this beautiful young lady has consented to be my wife." With that Darcy drew the hand that he held to his lips and delicately bestowed upon it a kiss. An exclaim of good cheer arose from the servants, obviously happy for their master, and then the crowd was upon them congratulating him and then wishing her joy and happiness at Pemberley. Mrs. Reynolds arranged for the footmen to retreat temporarily and to come back with glasses and wine for all.

Darcy exclaimed, "I see Mrs. Reynolds, you have foreseen me, I know that it is early in the day but I ask that you join me in a toast, to Miss Bennet!"

"To Miss Bennet!"

"And to Mr. Darcy!" shouted Mr. Darcy's valet.

"To Mr. Darcy!"

"Alright, alright, back to work this house doesn't run itself!" Mrs. Reynolds scolded after a brief period of revelry. "Let's give Mr. Darcy and Miss Bennet some privacy! We all have work to do!"

Slowly, the workers began to file out, all lining up to shake the hand of their future mistress. Even Georgiana and the Gardiners excused themselves. Darcy led Elizabeth into his library where they could be alone and undisturbed. As Elizabeth relaxed into a chair, she could not help but let out a sigh."

Darcy concerned asked if she was unwell. "Oh no, my love, I suddenly feel exhausted! I must admit to a little anxiety last night over this morning's events, unneeded anxiety - I see that now, but I must admit to not sleeping well. And then all this excitement this morning, I suddenly feel warn out!" Darcy walked away from her and pulled the bell cord.

"This will not do my darling," he said as he returned to her side, drawing her hand into his, "you must rest immediately, I will not have your make yourself unwell. I have work to do here so why don't you rest. When you awaken, come back to the library and we can take a ride out so that I may introduce my fiancée to some of our neighbors. That is, if Georgiana hasn't told everyone in the mean time!" He drew her hand up and kissed as Mrs. Reynolds appeared at the door.

Rising, Darcy approached Mrs. Reynolds. "Miss Bennet is quite worn out. Will you see her to her room and then send Molly to her with some warm milk? And make sure that she is undisturbed for at least two hours. Thank you Mrs. Reynolds."

Elizabeth rose and could not help laughing at Darcy, "am I to have no say sir?"

"I will not have you getting sick and missing our wedding, I have waited but I don't know if my patience can be extended any longer. I may be forced to take you to Gretna Green!" He smiled at her so lovingly and with such concern that she couldn't help but obey his wishes and followed Mrs. Reynolds to her room promising to return to him after her rest.

Chapter Twenty-One

Posted on Saturday, 29 January 2005

When Elizabeth awoke, she looked at herself in her dressing mirror. Her rest had done her good, for now, she felt refreshed and genuinely happy. Not longer did she feel the stress and apprehension of the morning, nor did she worry of living up to the expectation of becoming "Mrs. Darcy." Now the secret was out and she felt that the way in which the servants wished her joy, that they had accepted her into their hearts. She straightened her garments and put a lone hair that had escaped its pin back into its confines and set out to find her beloved.

As she approached the library door, she heard voices from within. Mrs. Reynolds was talking to Mr. Darcy about estate business so she decided not to enter but to linger in the hallway until they were finished. It was not her intent to eavesdrop but since Pemberley was soon to be her home and she knew how much Darcy loved it, she could not help but to take an interest in its affairs.

"Oh, and Mr. Darcy, have you decided on the applicants for the living at Houghton? It has been open for some time and the position must be filled."

"You are very right, Mrs. Reynolds, it must be done. I will read through the letters today. Is that all?"

Elizabeth listened as she wandered around the hallway taking note of the pictures there. She could not help but notice the miniatures of both Darcy and Wickham and hearing talk of a living brought her awareness back to his story of woe.

"Yes, Mr. Darcy, oh and you said that you had a letter to be posted to Mr. Bingley?"

"Forgive me Mrs. Reynolds, I left it in my room, wait here a moment and I shall bring it down." Darcy turned to leave the room despite Mrs. Reynolds' protest that she could have a servant retrieve the letter. "Nonsense, I know exactly where I left it and it shan't take a moment." When he opened the door, he perceived Elizabeth there and a warmth effused through his handsome face.

"My darling, you look more beautiful than you did this morning which is an achievement because I thought you were breathtaking then. I have to fetch something for Mrs. Reynolds but why don't you wait with her in my study until I come back down." She smiled and a slight blush at his compliment grew in her cheek but before she could utter a word, he was making his way up the stairway, so she turned and entered the study.

"Good afternoon, Miss. I trust you had a good rest. Can I order you a tray of refreshment?"

"No, thank you, Mrs. Reynolds. I think a walk out of doors is all that I wish for and for that, I shall wait and see if Mr. Darcy can join me." Elizabeth wandered around the room but thoughts of the living could not escape her mind. Finally, she resolved to put forth a question. "Mrs. Reynolds, I heard you and Mr. Darcy discussing the living at Houghton, it is vacant, I believe?"

"Yes, Miss, and it has been for some time." Mrs. Reynolds saw a confused look on Elizabeth's face and tried to put the young lady at rest, "I know that Mr. Darcy has had some applications from excellent families to fill it. He takes his responsibility very seriously and is trying to find the most respectable and caring person for the position. I'm sure that it shall not be long."

Elizabeth paused but knew that she had to know. "Mrs. Reynolds, is that the living that the late Mr. Darcy had promised to Mr. Wickham?" Mrs. Reynolds knew not how to answer that. But it was answered for her.

"As a matter of fact, no, it is not. Here is the letter Mrs. Reynolds, that will be all, thank you." He turned to Elizabeth now, his brow was furled and his eyes shown dark. Elizabeth had startled at hearing Darcy's voice. It was strong and forceful; she knew that he was angry. "Why do you ask Elizabeth?"

She waited for Mrs. Reynolds to leave the room for she knew that there was no turning back this time. Still she hesitated, and she noticed that as she did, the color of Mr. Darcy's face darkened.

"Why do you ask Elizabeth?" He repeated, stressing the words as he spoke them.

Elizabeth felt her strength rising. "Mr. Wickham had told me that your father had promised him a living. I wondered that if this living had been meant to be his, why you would be entertaining applications. Or if not, why you would disregard your father's wishes?"

Darcy took a minute to contain his emotions, but he could not hide the hurt that his eyes betrayed. "The living at Kympton, which is also in my power to bestow, is the one my father intended for Wickham. Did he not tell you though that he resolved not to take orders and to instead pursue the law as his profession? I rather wished than believed him to be sincere; but, at any rate, was perfectly ready to accede to his proposal. I knew that Mr. Wickham ought not to be a clergyman. The business was therefore soon settled. He resigned all claim to assistance in the church, were it possible that he could ever be in a situation to receive it, and accepted in return three thousand pounds. All connection between us seemed now dissolved. Did he not tell you that?"

Elizabeth was shocked and confirmed Darcy's suspicions; no he had not mentioned that.

"For about three years I heard little of him; but on the decease of the incumbent of the living which had been designed for him, he applied to me again by letter for the presentation. His circumstances, he assured me, and I had no difficulty in believing it, were exceedingly bad. He had found the law a most unprofitable study, and was now absolutely resolved on being ordained, if I would present him to the living in question -- of which he trusted there could be little doubt, as he was well assured that I had no other person to provide for, and I could not have forgotten my revered father's intentions. You will hardly blame me for refusing to comply with this entreaty, or for resisting every repetition of it. His resentment was in proportion to the distress of his circumstances -- and he was doubtless as violent in his abuse of me to others, as in his reproaches to myself. After this period, every appearance of acquaintance was dropt. How he lived I know not. But last summer he was again most painfully obtruded on my notice."

Darcy paused and walked to the sideboard of the study where a crystal pitcher of water rested. He poured himself a glass and looked back at his beloved Elizabeth. His heart ached for he saw that she was crying but he knew that he must continue, he must be exonerated of any charges that Wickham laid at his door. He had to look away though; he could not bear the sight so he walked to the window behind his desk, peering out as he finished his tale.

"I must now mention a circumstance which I would wish to forget myself, and which no obligation less than the present should induce me to unfold to any human being, even you my dearest Elizabeth. Having said thus much, I feel no doubt of your secrecy. As you know my sister was left to the guardianship of Colonel Fitzwilliam and myself. About a year ago, she was taken from school, and an establishment formed for her in London; and last summer she went with the lady who presided over it, to Ramsgate; and thither also went Mr. Wickham, undoubtedly by design; for there proved to have been a prior acquaintance between him and Mrs. Younge, in whose character we were most unhappily deceived; and by her connivance and aid he so far recommended himself to Georgiana, whose affectionate heart retained a strong impression of his kindness to her as a child, that she was persuaded to believe herself in love, and to consent to an elopement. She was then but fifteen, which must be her excuse; and after stating her imprudence, I am happy to add that I owed the knowledge of it to herself. I joined them unexpectedly a day or two before the intended elopement; and then Georgiana, unable to support the idea of grieving and offending a brother whom she almost looked up to as a father, acknowledged the whole to me. You may imagine what I felt and how I acted. Regard for my sister's credit and feelings prevented any public exposure, but I wrote to Mr. Wickham, who left the place immediately, and Mrs. Younge was of course removed from her charge. Mr. Wickham's chief object was unquestionably my sister's fortune, which is thirty thousand pounds; but I cannot help supposing that the hope of revenging himself on me was a strong inducement. His revenge would have been complete indeed."

"And now, I see he has imposed upon you as well. I noticed that he seemed to pay you a certain regard and I watched for protection from a distance. If he knew how I felt about you, you would have been in danger so I made it a point to not talk to you in his presence. What lies may I ask did he tell you?"

Elizabeth drew out her handkerchief and dabbed her eyes. "I can't believe it but yet it must be true. He told me that despite your father's wishes that you would not give him the living. That you had been friends as boys and now that you ignored all that." She could not go on, how could she have believed him. It now struck her how odd it was that on the very day of the beginning of their acquaintance, that he should tell her so much. She remembered with pain that as soon as the Netherfield party had returned to London that all of Meryton knew his tale of woe. He had not done so until Darcy was not there to defend himself. She realized that she had been a fool.

"And what did he tell you of my sister?" Darcy feared the answer. It was his greatest fear that Wickham would malign Georgiana with vicious gossip so he was gripped with an agonizing eagerness for her answer.

"He never spoke of the events you just mentioned; he only said that she had grown up to be very proud. Anyone that knows her though would see that she is only shy." As she said this, Darcy exhaled but she noticed that his hands still tightly gripped the window sill that he was now looking out of.

"Elizabeth, I hope that you understand and agree why Wickham shall not have the living." She nodded assent but he had not been looking at her. "You believed his assertions?"

Elizabeth could not lie, she let out a feeble yes to his question that was followed by more sobs. As he turned to face her, it seemed he made a grave realization.

"Elizabeth, this is what you thought of me? That I would deny my fathers wishes and hurt a just man because of my whim? That I would knowingly condemn a childhood friend to near poverty because I was cruel?" Elizabeth's sobs grew louder and louder. "If this is what you thought of me, why did you consent to marry me?"

"Elizabeth," he approached her and grabbed her with both of his hands at her elbows. He gently shook her but she could not bring her eyes up to meet his. "Elizabeth, why did you consent to marry me? Was it for my money? Because you were afraid that your father would die and you were worried for your comfort? Elizabeth, is that why?"

He released her from his grip for she had given him no answer. He turned away from her and ran his fingers through his hair as she had seen him do before when he was vexed. She approached him and gently put her hand on his arm. He shuddered at her touch and withdrew from her reach.

"For my family." She murmured.

He said nothing and did not even look at her. He couldn't look at her. He needed to get out of there, away from her, for he could not stand the pain he felt in his heart. He needed to be alone so he headed for the door.

"But I love you so very dearly now..." She called after him but he was already gone. She didn't know if he had heard her and it overwhelmed her to know that she was causing him so much pain. She startled as she heard the front door slam and Darcy outside yelling to the stable hands to bring him his horse. Her sobs became uncontrollable and she ran for her room. As she ran past the miniatures, she could not help noticing them for it was the sight of them that had started these events in motion. She no longer felt anything for Wickham; she had not loved him but she had valued his friendship and pitied his situation. But not now. Now she determined to not think of him again. It was the other miniature that drew her gaze. She loved him and now she feared their relationship was at an end.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Posted on Saturday, 29 January 2005

It seemed like hours to Elizabeth, but in reality she sat crying on the lavish bed for less than one when a gentle knock came at her door. Elizabeth did not answer, almost fearing who it might be while at the same time wishing that it was Darcy coming to seek her out. Slowly she heard the door opening; she could not look but soon felt a gentle voice in her ear.

It was her aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, who came to comfort her and she did her best as she allowed Elizabeth to cry out her sad story.

"I have always wondered Elizabeth how you fell in love with Mr. Darcy when you had disliked him so much; you know that your uncle and I would have taken care of you, your sisters, and your mother. You would all have been welcome in our home, my dear, it would not have been necessary to sacrifice yourself. You do love him now and that is what is important. But now things are out in the open and that is the best way to start a marriage. He must know that you love him - any fool could see that. I'm sure that he is merely hurt and when he returns, all will be well."

"Oh Aunt, if I could be sure of that! No, I fear that all is lost. You didn't see him, did you? He left the house; he had to be out of the sight of me."

"Oh, now there, there my dear. No, I didn't see him but Molly said that Mr. Darcy likes to ride around Pemberley to clear his head when he is upset. Don't worry."

"He once told me that once his good opinion of someone is lost, that it is lost forever. He will never forgive me. And anyway, what does Molly know of this??? She knows of my troubles?"

"My darling girl, it was Molly that sought me out. She was below stairs and heard other servants gossiping. A stable hand was telling the others how upset Mr. Darcy seemed when he called for his horse and then an under maid said that she had seen you crying on the way to your chamber. Molly knew that you may need someone to talk to and came in search of me. Smart girl that. You'll see my dear girl, everything will work it way out. Mr. Darcy is a good, caring man who loves you deeply; he is not going to just forget all that. All he needs is time. Now, I will send Molly to you and we will go down to dinner, ok? You'll see all will be fine."

Elizabeth nodded and tried to give her aunt a smile but she could not feel so sure. She requested though that Molly be sent to her to prepare for dinner because sooner or later she would have to face him. She could not be a guest in his house and avoid him so now was as good a time as any.

Molly attended her future mistress with gentle care and dressed her in what she felt was Elizabeth's most becoming gown. She did her hair and helped apply cold compresses to Elizabeth's face and eyes to reduce the swelling and redness that her crying had caused. All this she did without uttering a single word beside what was necessary and for this, Elizabeth was grateful. And before she left the room, Elizabeth took Molly's hand in hers and murmured her thanks.

When Elizabeth entered the dining room, she looked immediately towards his chair at the head of the table but its view was obscured from the entrance. Elizabeth moved towards its location for Georgiana was still Mistress of the house and as such, sat at the opposite end. Elizabeth was still a guest and as the honored guest, as well as to Darcy's liking, she was seated always on his right side. As she proceeded to her chair, she never took her eyes off the direction of his chair, waiting to catch a glimpse of him, wanting to see forgiveness in his eyes. But he was not there.

Elizabeth did not know what to think, where could he be and was he thinking of her. She played with the first two courses, trying for Georgiana's sake to not look out of sorts, but she could not bring herself to eat. Finally he entered the room and upon Georgiana's inquiry as to where he had been, he apologized claiming that it was estate business had lead to his tardiness. As he pulled his chair out, he and Elizabeth locked eyes for a moment, he could see the tears welling up. He then looked at the plate in front of her and noticed that she had not eaten anything even though the others had just finished the course. Had she been able to return his gaze, she would have seen the deep concern in his face. He gently reached under the table and momentarily grasped her hand. Immediately she looked up at him upon feeling his touch and she saw forgiveness in his eyes. She felt pure joy and could not contain a smile which he returned.

After that, dinner was as usual. The men rose to retire to have a glass of port in the study while the ladies prepared to withdraw to the drawing room. Just as they approached the door, it opened and a servant bearing a silver tray carrying two letters entered.

"Miss Bennet, these arrived for you this afternoon. I apologize for not delivering them earlier but Mr. Darcy had ordered that you not be disturbed so that you could rest."

"Thank you" was all that she replied.

Elizabeth had been a good deal disappointed in not finding a letter from Jane on their first arrival at Pemberley; and this disappointment had been renewed on each of the mornings that had now been spent there; but finally, her repining was over, and her sister justified, by the receipt of two letters from her at once, on one of which was marked that it had been missent elsewhere. Elizabeth was not surprised at it, as Jane had written the direction remarkably ill.

Elizabeth, desiring the respite she hoped the letter would give her, begged the leave of her companions, leaving her to enjoy them in quiet, set off by herself to the terrace. The one missent must be first attended to; it had been written five days ago. The beginning contained an account of all their little parties and engagements, with such news as the country afforded; but the latter half, which was dated a day later, and written in evident agitation, gave more important intelligence. It was to this effect:

Since writing the above, dearest Lizzy, something has occurred of a most unexpected and serious nature; but I am afraid of alarming you -- be assured that we are all well. What I have to say relates to poor Lydia. An express came at twelve last night, just as we were all gone to bed, from Colonel Forster, to inform us that she was gone off to Scotland with one of his officers; to own the truth, with Wickham! --

Imagine our surprise. To Kitty, however, it does not seem so wholly unexpected. I am very, very sorry. So imprudent a match on both sides! -- But I am willing to hope the best. His choice is disinterested at least, for he must know my father can give her nothing. Our poor mother is sadly grieved. My father bears it better. They were off Saturday night about twelve, as is conjectured, but were not missed till yesterday morning at eight. The express was sent off directly. My dear Lizzy, they must have passed within ten miles of us. Colonel Forster gives us reason to expect him here soon. Lydia left a few lines for his wife, informing her of their intention. I must conclude, for I cannot be long from my poor mother. I am afraid you will not be able to make it out, but I hardly know what I have written.

Without allowing herself time for consideration, and scarcely knowing what she felt, Elizabeth, on finishing this letter, instantly seized the other, and opening it with the utmost impatience, read as follows -- it had been written a day later than the conclusion of the first:

By this time, my dearest sister, you have received my hurried letter; I wish this may be more intelligible, but though not confined for time, my head is so bewildered that I cannot answer for being coherent. Dearest Lizzy, I hardly know what I would write, but I have bad news for you, and it cannot be delayed. Imprudent as a marriage between Mr. Wickham and our poor Lydia would be, we are now anxious to be assured it has taken place, for there is but too much reason to fear they are not gone to Scotland. Colonel Forster came yesterday, having left Brighton the day before, not many hours after the express.

Though Lydia's short letter to Mrs. F. gave them to understand that they were going to Gretna Green, something was dropped by Denny expressing his belief that W. never intended to go there, or to marry Lydia at all, which was repeated to Colonel F., who, instantly taking the alarm, set off from B. intending to trace their route. He did trace them easily to Clapham, but no farther; for on entering that place they removed into a hackney-coach and dismissed the chaise that brought them from Epsom. All that is known after this is that they were seen to continue the London road. I know not what to think. After making every possible enquiry on that side London, Colonel F. came on into Hertfordshire, anxiously renewing them at all the turnpikes, and at the inns in Barnet and Hatfield, but without any success; no such people had been seen to pass through. With the kindest concern he came on to Longbourn, and broke his apprehensions to us in a manner most creditable to his heart. I am sincerely grieved for him and Mrs. F., but no one can throw any blame on them. Our distress, my dear Lizzy, is very great. My father and mother believe the worst, but I cannot think so ill of him. Many circumstances might make it more eligible for them to be married privately in town than to pursue their first plan; and even if _he_ could form such a design against a young woman of Lydia's connections, which is not likely, can I suppose her so lost to every thing? -- Impossible.

O grieve to find, however, that Colonel F. is not disposed to depend upon their marriage; he shook his head when I expressed my hopes, and said he feared W. was not a man to be trusted. My poor mother is really ill and keeps her room. Could she exert herself it would be better, but this is not to be expected; and as to my father, I never in my life saw him so affected. Poor Kitty has anger for having concealed their attachment; but as it was a matter of confidence, one cannot wonder. I am truly glad, dearest Lizzy, that you have been spared something of these distressing scenes; but now, as the first shock is over, shall I own that I long for your return? I am not so selfish, however, as to press for it, if inconvenient. Adieu. I take up my pen again to do what I have just told you I would not, but circumstances are such, that I cannot help earnestly begging you all to come here as soon as possible. I know my dear uncle and aunt so well that I am not afraid of requesting it, though I have still something more to ask of the former. My father and Charles are going to London with Colonel Forster instantly, to try to discover her. What they mean to do, I am sure I know not; but father's excessive distress will not allow him to pursue any measure in the best and safest way, and Colonel Forster is obliged to be at Brighton again to-morrow evening. In such an exigence my uncle's advice and assistance would be every thing in the world; he will immediately comprehend what I must feel, and I rely upon his goodness.'

``Oh! where, where is my uncle?'' cried Elizabeth, darting from her seat as she finished the letter, in eagerness to follow him without losing a moment of the time so precious; but as she reached the terrace door, it was opened by Mr. Darcy. Her pale face and impetuous manner made him start, and before she could recover herself enough to speak, he, in whose mind every idea was superseded by Elizabeth's distress exclaimed, ``Good God! what is the matter?'' with more feeling than politeness. "Forgive me Elizabeth if I have made you so unwell, I was angry and my pride was hurt but please, no longer distress yourself.''

``I have just had a letter from Jane, with such dreadful news. It cannot be concealed from any one. My youngest sister has left all her friends -- has eloped; -- has thrown herself into the power of -- of Mr. Wickham. They are gone off together from Brighton. _You_ know him too well to doubt the rest. She has no money, no connections, nothing that can tempt him to -- she is lost for ever.''

``I am grieved, indeed,'' cried Darcy; ``grieved -- shocked. But is it certain, absolutely certain?''

``Oh yes! -- They left Brighton together on Sunday night, and were traced almost to London, but not beyond; they are certainly not gone to Scotland.''

``And what has been done, what has been attempted, to recover her?''

``My father and Mr. Bingley are gone to London, and Jane has written to beg my uncle's immediate assistance, and we shall be off, I hope, in half an hour. But nothing can be done; I know very well that nothing can be done. How is such a man to be worked on? How are they even to be discovered? I have not the smallest hope. It is every way horrible!''

Darcy shook his head in silent acquiescence. He made no answer. He seemed scarcely to hear her, and was walking up and down the terrace in earnest meditation; his brow contracted, his air gloomy. Elizabeth soon observed and instantly understood it. Her power was sinking; every thing _must_ sink under such a proof of family weakness, such an assurance of the deepest disgrace. She should either wonder or condemn, but the belief of his self-conquest brought nothing consolatory to her bosom, afforded no palliation of her distress. She knew that this would be too much, after finding out that she was marrying him for her family's welfare and then to be asked in the best case to call Wickham brother, it could not be.

But self, though it would intrude, could not engross her. Lydia -- the humiliation, the misery, she was bringing on them all -- soon swallowed up every private care; and covering her face with her handkerchief, Elizabeth was soon lost to every thing else; and, after a pause of several minutes, was only recalled to a sense of her situation by the voice of her companion, who, in a manner, which though it spoke compassion, spoke likewise restraint, said, ``I must leave for London at first light. Mr. Gardiner may accompany me. This is my fault and so must the reckoning be."

"I could not ask you to take such mortification on yourself! And to pursue a man that you so rightfully despise! It is too much to ask!"

"No Elizabeth, it is because of me. I'm sure that Wickham knows of our engagement, probably from Lydia's own mouth, and it is to get back at me that he is doing this. He could not get to you or to me so he is going after the next best thing, one of your sisters. I'm so terribly sorry that he has sought out this form of revenge and hope that you can forgive me. This unfortunate affair will, I fear, prevent my sister's having the pleasure of having you continuing your stay at Pemberley. I will arrange a carriage to take you and Mrs. Gardiner to Longbourn. Please, I beg you to return to your chamber and get some rest. I will have Mrs. Reynolds come up and give you something to help you sleep. I cannot bear to see you in so much distress. I will arrange everything with the Gardiners. Trust in me, Elizabeth, all will be well again''

``Oh, yes. Be so kind as to apologize for us to Miss Darcy. Say that urgent business calls us home immediately. Conceal the unhappy truth as long as it is possible. -- I know it cannot be long. I don't want to distress her by mentioning Wickham until we know the outcome of this situation.''

He readily assured her of his secrecy -- again expressed his sorrow for her distress laying his hand on her arm lovingly, promising her a happier conclusion than there was at present reason to hope, and, leaving to locate for her relations, with only one serious, parting, look, went away.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Posted on Saturday, 29 January 2005

Elizabeth was too strained to protest Darcy's commands so she proceeded up the grand staircase to her chamber. Her thoughts were in a whirl as she recalled the events of the day; how had things changed so drastically. Early this morning, which seemed ages ago now, had begun so happily with Mr. Darcy introducing her as his future bride. She wondered now if he regretted doing that for it would make breaking the engagement harder. She would have to break it, for if he did it, it would tarnish her reputation but then again, Lydia's disgrace had already done it. It gave him the cause that he would need.

Then the fateful events of the afternoon had seemed to be the worst thing that could happen at the time, if only she had known what was to come. And it had just seemed to her that he had forgiven her, the feel of his touch and the slight smile that he gave had given her hope. Now she feared that she might never see him again once she had left his house. She could not cry; however, now she was beyond tears.

As she entered the chamber and Molly prepared her for bed, she reran Jane's letters though her head. Never, since reading Jane's second letter, had she entertained a hope of Wickham's meaning to marry Lydia. No one but Jane, she thought, could flatter herself with such an expectation. Surprise was the least of her feelings on this development. While the contents of the first letter remained on her mind, she was all surprise -- all astonishment that Wickham should marry a girl whom it was impossible he could marry for money especially after hearing Darcy's tale of his mercenary pursuit of Miss Darcy; and how Lydia could ever have attached him had appeared incomprehensible. But now it was all too natural. For such an attachment as this, she might have sufficient charms; and though she did not suppose Lydia to be deliberately engaging in an elopement, without the intention of marriage, she had no difficulty in believing that neither her virtue nor her understanding would preserve her from falling an easy prey.

She had never perceived, while the regiment was in Hertfordshire, that Lydia had any partiality for him, but she was convinced that Lydia had wanted only encouragement to attach herself to any body. Sometimes one officer, sometimes another had been her favorite, as their attentions raised them in her opinion. Her affections had been continually fluctuating, but never without an object. The mischief of neglect and mistaken indulgence towards such a girl. -- Oh! how acutely did she now feel it.

Mrs. Reynolds came to her as Darcy had promised and brought with her a warm beverage that would induce sleep. Without complaint, she drank it down, just desiring the day to end and to stop the thoughts in her head. Molly and Mrs. Reynolds helped her into bed and without exchanging words, expressed to each their distress for Miss Bennet. The light was gone from her eyes and she was distant, as if in a far off place. They graciously wished her good night, turned out the lights and left her to her thoughts. Now her thoughts were only of him, in which part of the house he was in, what he was doing and most importantly, was he thinking of her. Her thoughts were thus employed as the sleeping powders in her beverage took their hold and she drifted off to sleep.

Elizabeth felt herself to be in a fog; Darcy was talking to her but veiled behind smoke.

"It is alright my love. I will take care of everything so put your heart at rest. We shall talk when I return but know how very dearly I love you."

"I love you," she anxiously replied, "I love you so very truly now, please believe me, I didn't really know you then and now that I do, I can't imagine living without you!"

"I know my love, I was angry but I understand and forgive you now. Read this when you awaken - I miss you already." He seemed to disappear in the fog and she resumed her sleep unsure if it had been a dream or if it had been reality.

Darcy had placed a letter on the mantle of her fireplace but when he shut the passageway door, a draft blew it from its place to where to lodged under the carpet.

Elizabeth woke the next morning and started out of bed. She searched the room for looking for what Darcy had left. When she could not locate anything, she came to the sad realization that it had been all a dream. She rang the bell and when Molly had completed her morning ritual of dressing and grooming her future mistress, Elizabeth ran downstairs in search of Darcy.

"Mrs. Reynolds, is Mr. Darcy in the breakfast room?"

"Why no, Miss. He and your uncle left almost an hour ago on some business. He said that you and Mrs. Gardiner would be also leaving, so that you could join him at your home. He ordered a carriage and a manservant to attend you. Is that your wish, Miss?"

Elizabeth was disappointed but conceded that was their plans. She joined Mrs. Gardiner and Georgiana in the breakfast room. After they had dined, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley bid the travelers a sad farewell and wished to them that Mrs. Bennet was well, which was the excuse that Darcy had given his sister. With the exception of leaving Georgiana, Elizabeth was almost happy to leave Pemberley. It produced a feeling of regret in her causing her to lament - of all this she might have been mistress. Also, she could not bear to be there without Darcy. As fond as she was of Pemberley, it was his home and she would not have been able to reside there without him being constantly in her thoughts. There were others concerns for her to worry about and now finally, they were on the road home.

``I have been thinking it over again, Elizabeth,'' said her aunt as they drove; ``and really, upon serious consideration, I am much more inclined than I was to judge as your eldest sister does of the matter. It appears to me so very unlikely that any young man should form such a design against a girl who is by no means unprotected or friendless, and who was actually staying in his colonel's family, that I am strongly inclined to hope the best. Could he expect that her friends would not step forward? Could he expect to be noticed again by the regiment, after such an affront to Colonel Forster? His temptation is not adequate to the risk.''

``Do you really think so?'' cried Elizabeth, brightening up for a moment.

``Upon my word,'' said Mrs. Gardiner, ``It is really too great a violation of decency, honor, and interest, for him to be guilty of it. I cannot think so very ill of Wickham. Can you, yourself, Lizzy, so wholly give him up as to believe him capable of it?''

``Not perhaps of neglecting his own interest. But of every other neglect I can believe him capable. If, indeed, it should be so! But I dare not hope it. Why should they not go on to Scotland, if that had been the case?''

``In the first place,'' replied her aunt, ``there is no absolute proof that they are not gone to Scotland.''

``Oh! But their removing from the chaise into a hackney coach is such a presumption! And, besides, no traces of them were to be found on the Barnet road.''

``Well, then -- supposing them to be in London. They may be there, though, for the purpose of concealment, for no more exceptionable purpose. It is not likely that money should be very abundant on either side; and it might strike them that they could be more economically, though less expeditiously, married in London, than in Scotland.''

``But why all this secrecy? Why any fear of detection? Why must their marriage be private? Oh! no, no, this is not likely. His most particular friend, you see by Jane's account, was persuaded of his never intending to marry her. Wickham will never marry a woman without some money. He cannot afford it. And what claims has Lydia, what attractions has she beyond youth, health, and good humor, that could make him, for her sake, forgo every chance of benefiting himself by marrying well? His only thought can be Mr. Darcy's and Mr. Bingley's fortunes. But he rushes, for neither are related nor likely to be so after what he has done. As to what restraint the apprehension of disgrace in the corps might throw on a dishonorable elopement with her, I am not able to judge; for I know nothing of the effects that such a step might produce.''

``The fact that her sisters are marrying into two wealthy family, one family with which he is very familiar, might have left him to believe that it would be economically improving to him to pursue Lydia. But can you think that Lydia is so lost to every thing but love of him, as to consent to live with him on any other terms than marriage? And do you feel that Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are so inconstant.''

``It does seem, and it is most shocking indeed,'' replied Elizabeth, with tears in her eyes, ``that a sister's sense of decency and virtue in such a point should admit of doubt. But, really, I know not what to say. Perhaps I am not doing her justice. But she is very young; she has never been taught to think on serious subjects; and for the last half year, nay, for a twelvemonth, she has been given up to nothing but amusement and vanity. She has been allowed to dispose of her time in the most idle and frivolous manner, and to adopt any opinions that came in her way. Since the ----shire were first quartered in Meryton, nothing but love, flirtation, and officers have been in her head. She has been doing every thing in her power, by thinking and talking on the subject, to give greater - what shall I call it? -- Susceptibility to her feelings, which are naturally lively enough. And we all know that Wickham has every charm of person and address that can captivate a woman. And as to Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley, only time will prove them so.''

``But you see that Jane,'' said her aunt, ``does not think so ill of Wickham as to believe him capable of the attempt.''

``Of whom does Jane ever think ill? And who is there, whatever might be their former conduct, that she would believe capable of such an attempt, till it were proved against them? But Jane does not know, as well as I do, what Wickham really is. I know that he has been profligate in every sense of the word. That he has neither integrity nor honor. That he is as false and deceitful, as he is insinuating.''

``And do you really know all this?'' cried Mrs. Gardiner, whose curiosity as to the mode of her intelligence was all alive.

``I do, indeed,'' replied Elizabeth, coloring. ``I have not told you of his infamous behavior to Mr. Darcy; He has lied and mistreated Mr. Darcy so abominably that I did not even know details myself until yesterday. And there are other circumstances which I am not at liberty -- which it is not worthwhile to relate; but his lies about the whole Pemberley family are endless. From what he said of Miss Darcy, I was thoroughly prepared to see a proud, reserved, disagreeable girl. Yet he knew to the contrary himself. He must know that she was amiable and unpretending as we have found her.''

``When they all removed to Brighton, therefore, you had no reason, I suppose, to believe them fond of each other.''

`Not the slightest. I can remember no symptom of affection on either side; and had any thing of the kind been perceptible, you must be aware that ours is not a family on which it could be thrown away. When first he entered the corps, she was ready enough to admire him; but so we all were. Every girl in or near Meryton was out of her senses about him for the first two months; but he never distinguished _her_ by any particular attention, and consequently, after a moderate period of extravagant and wild admiration, her fancy for him gave way, and others of the regiment who treated her with more distinction again became her favorites.''

It may be easily believed that, however little of novelty could be added to their fears, hopes, and conjectures, on this interesting subject by its repeated discussion, no other could detain them from it long, during the whole of the journey. From Elizabeth's thoughts it was never absent. Fixed there by the keenest of all anguish, self-reproach, she could find no interval of ease or forgetfulness.

They traveled as expeditiously as possible; and, sleeping one night on the road, reached Longbourn by dinnertime the next day. It was a comfort to Elizabeth to consider that Jane could not have been wearied by long expectations.

The little Gardiners, attracted by the sight of a chaise, were standing on the steps of the house as they entered the paddock; and when the carriage drove up to the door, the joyful surprise that lighted up their faces, and displayed itself over their whole bodies in a variety of capers and frisks, was the first pleasing earnest of their welcome.

Elizabeth jumped out; and, after giving each of them a hasty kiss, hurried into the vestibule, where Jane, who came running down stairs from her mother's apartment, immediately met her. Elizabeth, as she affectionately embraced her, whilst tears filled the eyes of both, lost not a moment in asking whether any thing had been heard of the fugitives.

``Not yet,'' replied Jane. ``But now that my dear uncle and Mr. Darcy have joined the search, I hope every thing will be well.''

``Is my father and Mr. Bingley in town?''

``Yes, they went on Tuesday, as I wrote you word.''

``And have you heard from them often?''

``We have heard only once. Charles wrote me a few lines on Wednesday, to say that they had arrived in safety, and Father wrote to give me his directions, which I particularly begged him to do. He merely added that he should not write again till he had something of importance to mention.''

``And my mother -- How is she? How are you all?''

``My mother is tolerably well, I trust; though her spirits are greatly shaken. She is up stairs, and will have great satisfaction in seeing you both. She does not yet leave her dressing-room. Mary and Kitty, thank Heaven! are quite well.''

``But you -- How are you?'' cried Elizabeth. ``You look pale. How much you must have gone through!''

Her sister, however, assured her of her being perfectly well; and their conversation, which had been passing while Mrs. Gardiner was engaged with her children, was now put an end to by the approach of the whole party. Jane ran to her aunt, and welcomed and thanked her, with alternate smiles and tears.

The sanguine hope of good, however, which the benevolence of Jane's heart suggested, had not yet deserted her; she still expected that it would all end well, and that every morning would bring some letter, either from Lydia or her father, to explain their proceedings, and perhaps announce the marriage.

Jane, at last, took Lizzie to visit her mother. She found her residing in her bed chamber, as always, taking no responsibility for Lydia's actions. She was afraid of the fact that Mr. Bennet would fight Wickham, which was highly unlikely in the presence of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, but feared since he had not fully recovered from his stroke and he would be killed. Her eldest daughters tried in vain to reassure her that would not be the case; but after a half hours attempt, they sought solace downstairs.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Posted on Saturday, 29 January 2005

Every day at Longbourn was now a day of anxiety; but the most anxious part of each was when the post was expected. The arrival of letters was the first grand object of every morning's impatience. Through letters, whatever of good or bad was to be told would be communicated, and every succeeding day was expected to bring some news of importance.

But before they heard again from Mr. Gardiner, a letter arrived for their father from a different quarter -- from Mr. Collins; which, as Jane had received directions to open all that came for him in his absence, she accordingly read; and Elizabeth, who knew what curiosities his letters always were, looked over her, and read it likewise. It was as follows:

MY DEAR SIR,
I feel myself called upon by our relationship, and my situation in life, to condole with you on the grievous affliction you are now suffering under, of which we were yesterday informed by a letter from Hertfordshire. Be assured, my dear Sir, that Mrs. Collins and myself sincerely sympathize with you, and all your respectable family, in your present distress, which must be of the bitterest kind, because proceeding from a cause which no time can remove. No arguments shall be wanting on my part that can alleviate so severe a misfortune; or that may comfort you, under a circumstance that must be of all others most afflicting to a parent's mind. The death of your daughter would have been a blessing in comparison of this. And it is the more to be lamented, because there is reason to suppose, as my dear Charlotte informs me, that this licentiousness of behavior in your daughter has proceeded from a faulty degree of indulgence, though at the same time, for the consolation of yourself and Mrs. Bennet, I am inclined to think that her own disposition must be naturally bad, or she could not be guilty of such an enormity at so early an age. Howsoever that may be, you are grievously to be pitied, in which opinion I am not only joined by Mrs. Collins, but likewise by Lady Catherine and her daughter, to whom I have related the affair. They agree with me in apprehending that this false step in one daughter will be injurious to the fortunes of all the others; for who, as Lady Catherine herself condescendingly says, will connect themselves with such a family. And this consideration leads me moreover to reflect with augmented satisfaction on a certain event of last November, for had it been otherwise, I must have been involved in all your sorrow and disgrace. Let me advise you then, my dear Sir, to console yourself as much as possible, to throw off your unworthy child from your affection for ever, and leave her to reap the fruits of her own heinous offence.
I am, dear Sir, &c. &c.

The emotions that the letter produced in Elizabeth could best be described as fury. Jane did as best she could to calm her sister but had to allow that her feelings were affected by Mr. Collins' words.

That afternoon, however, brought more relief than was expected. An express from Mr. Bennet announced that Lydia had been found and proclaimed that she and Wickham were soon to be married. It seemed almost too much to believe, almost too good to be true. Their father would return home as their Uncle Gardiner would take care of the details in London and it was time that Mr. Bennet was home resting.

Elizabeth took the letter from his writing table, and they went up stairs together. Mary and Kitty were both with Mrs. Bennet: one communication would, therefore, do for all. After a slight preparation for good news, the letter was read aloud. Mrs. Bennet could hardly contain herself. As soon as Jane had read Mr. Bennet's hope of Lydia's being soon married, Mrs. Bennet's joy burst forth, and every following sentence added to its exuberance. She was now in an irritation as violent from delight, as she had ever been fidgety from alarm and vexation. To know that her daughter would be married was enough. She was disturbed by no fear for her felicity, nor humbled by any remembrance of her misconduct.

``My dear, dear Lydia!'' she cried: ``This is delightful indeed! -- She will be married! -- I shall see her again! -- She will be married at sixteen! -- My good, kind brother! - I knew how it would be -- I knew he would manage every thing. How I long to see her! And to see dear Wickham too! But the clothes, the wedding clothes! Lizzy, my dear, write to your father, and ask him how much he will give her. Stay, stay, I will do it myself. Ring the bell, Kitty, for Hill. I will put on my things in a moment. My dear, dear Lydia! -- How merry we shall be together when we meet!''

Her eldest daughter endeavored to give some relief to the violence of these transports, by leading her thoughts to the obligations which someone's behavior laid them all under. They knew not the particulars, but they were sure that a great deal of money had been laid out on Lydia's behalf.

``Well,'' cried her mother, ``Well! I am so happy. In a short time, I shall have three daughters married. Mrs. Wickham! How well it sounds. And she was only sixteen last June. My dear Jane, I am in such a flutter that I am sure I can't write; so I will dictate, and you write for me. We will settle with your father about the money afterwards; but the things should be ordered immediately.''

She was then proceeding to all the particulars of calico, muslin, and cambric, and would shortly have dictated some very plentiful orders, had not Jane, though with some difficulty, persuaded her to wait till her father was consulted. One day's delay, she observed, would be of small importance; and her mother was too happy to be quite so obstinate as usual. Other schemes, too, came into her head.

``I will go to Meryton,'' said she, ``as soon as I am dressed, and tell the good, good news to my sister Phillips. And as I come back, I can call on Lady Lucas and Mrs. Long. Kitty, run down and order the carriage. An airing would do me a great deal of good, I am sure. Girls, can I do any thing for you in Meryton? Oh! here comes Hill. My dear Hill, have you heard the good news? Miss Lydia is going to be married; and you shall all have a bowl of punch to make merry at her wedding.''

Mrs. Hill began instantly to express her joy. Elizabeth received her congratulations amongst the rest, and then, sick of this folly, took refuge in her own room, that she might think with freedom.

Poor Lydia's situation must, at best, be bad enough; but that it was no worse, she had need to be thankful. She felt it so; and though, in looking forward, neither rational happiness nor worldly prosperity could be justly expected for her sister, in looking back to what they had feared, only two hours ago, she felt all the advantages of what they had gained.

Mr. Gardiner soon wrote again to his wife begging her return to London. With Mr. Bennet returning, there was no need for her to stay at Longbourn. The other principal purport of his letter was to inform them that Mr. Wickham had resolved on quitting the Militia.

It was greatly my wish that he should do so as soon as his marriage was fixed on. And I think you will agree with me in considering a removal from that corps as highly advisable, both on his account and my niece's. It is Mr. Wickham's intention to go into the regulars; and, among his former friends, there are still some who are able and willing to assist him in the army. He has the promise of an ensigncy in General ----'s regiment, now quartered in the North. It is an advantage to have it so far from this part of the kingdom. He promises fairly; and, I hope, among different people, where they may each have a character to preserve, they will both be more prudent. I have written to Colonel Forster, to inform him of our present arrangements, and to request that he will satisfy the various creditors of Mr. Wickham in and near Brighton with assurances of speedy payment, for which I have pledged myself. And will you give yourself the trouble of carrying similar assurances to his creditors in Meryton, of whom I shall subjoin a list, according to his information. He has given in all his debts; I hope at least he has not deceived us. Haggerston has our directions, and all will be completed in a week. They will then join his regiment, unless they are first invited to Longbourn; and I understand that my niece is very desirous of seeing you all, before she leaves the South. She is well, and begs to be dutifully remembered to you all and to her mother. -
Yours, &c.
E. GARDINER.

Jane and Elizabeth saw all the advantages of Wickham's removal from the ----shire as clearly as Mr. Gardiner could. But Mrs. Bennet was not so well pleased with it. Lydia's being settled in the North, just when she had expected most pleasure and pride in her company -- for she had by no means given up her plan of their residing in Hertfordshire -- was a severe disappointment; and besides, it was such a pity that Lydia should be taken from a regiment where she was acquainted with every body, and had so many favorites. So Mr. Bennet came home and Mrs. Gardiner returned to her husband. Mr. Bennet brought greetings to both of his elder daughters from their prospective beaus and assurances that they too would arrive at Longbourn soon. He could not help pulling the girls into his study and letting them know how proud he was of their choices. Mr. Bingley and especially, Mr. Darcy, had proven themselves invaluable in the search for Lydia.

"Mr. Darcy had been some days in town," Mr. Bennet began his narrative of the sad events, " before he was able to discover them; but he had something to direct his search, which was more than we had; and the consciousness of this was another reason for his resolving to follow us. There is a lady, it seems, a Mrs. Younge, who was some time ago governess to Miss Darcy, and was dismissed from her charge on some cause of disapprobation, though he did not say what. She then took a large house in Edward-street, and has since maintained herself by letting lodgings. This Mrs. Younge was, he knew, intimately acquainted with Wickham; and he went to her for intelligence of him as soon as he got to town. But it was two or three days before he could get from her what he wanted. She would not betray her trust, I suppose, without bribery and corruption, for she really did know where her friend was to be found. Wickham indeed had gone to her on their first arrival in London, and had she been able to receive them into her house, they would have taken up their abode with her. At length, however, our kind friend procured the wished-for direction. They were in ---- street."

"Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley went and saw Wickham, and afterwards insisted on seeing Lydia. They would not allow me to go because of my illness and that was probably wise in light of the following events. Their first object with her, they acknowledged, had been to persuade her to quit her present disgraceful situation, and return to her friends as soon as they could be prevailed on to receive her, offering their assistance, as far as it would go. But they found Lydia absolutely resolved on remaining where she was. She cared for none of her friends; she wanted no help of theirs; she would not hear of leaving Wickham. She was sure they should be married some time or other, and it did not much signify when. Since such were her feelings, it only remained, they thought, to secure and expedite a marriage, which, in their very first conversation with Wickham, they easily learnt had never been his design. He confessed himself obliged to leave the regiment, on account of some debts of honor, which were very pressing; and scrupled not to lay all the ill-consequences of Lydia's flight on her own folly alone. He meant to resign his commission immediately; and as to his future situation, he could conjecture very little about it. He must go somewhere, but he did not know where, and he knew he should have nothing to live on. Mr. Darcy asked him why he had not married your sister at once that perhaps I could have been able to do something for him, and his situation must have been benefited by marriage. But he found, in reply to this question, that Wickham still cherished the hope of more effectually making his fortune by marriage in some other country."

"Under such circumstances, however, he was not likely to be proof against the temptation of immediate relief. They met several times, for there was much to be discussed. Wickham of course wanted more than he could get; but at length was reduced to be reasonable. Every thing being settled between _them_, their next step was to make your uncle and myself acquainted with the details. Nothing was to be done that they did not do themselves. I battled with them for a long time, which was more than either the gentleman or lady concerned in it deserved. But at last I was forced to yield, and instead of being allowed to be of use to my daughter, I was forced to sit back and watch them handle everything."

The sisters were shocked to hear how much had been done for their sister and for two souls who did not deserve it. As Jane left, Mr. Bennet stopped Lizzie before she exited as well. ``My darling girl, I must tell you that Bingley confided that Darcy did every thing: made up the match, gave the money, paid the fellow's debts, and got him his commission! Something about it being due to his mistaken pride that Wickham's true character was not known but so much the better. It has saved me a world of trouble and economy. These violent young lovers carry every thing their own way. I have offered to pay him; he ranted and stormed about his love for you, and that was the end of the matter.''

Lizzie began to hope as she had not hoped before.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Posted on Saturday, 29 January 2005

THEIR sister's wedding day arrived; and Jane and Elizabeth felt for her probably more than she felt for herself. Despite Mr. Bennet's misgivings, Mrs. Bennet insisted that the happy couple visit Longbourn so the carriage was sent to meet them at ----, and they were to return in it by dinnertime. Their arrival was dreaded by the elder Miss Bennets, and Jane more especially, who gave Lydia the feelings which would have attended herself, had she been the culprit, and was wretched in the thought of what her sister must endure. They came. The family was assembled in the breakfast room to receive them. Smiles decked the face of Mrs. Bennet as the carriage drove up to the door; her husband looked impenetrably grave; her daughters, alarmed, anxious, and uneasy.

Lydia's voice was heard in the vestibule; the door was thrown open, and she ran into the room. Her mother stepped forwards, embraced her, and welcomed her with rapture; gave her hand, with an affectionate smile, to Wickham, who followed his lady; and wished them both joy with an alacrity which showed no doubt of their happiness.

Their reception from Mr. Bennet, to whom they then turned, was not quite so cordial. His countenance rather gained in austerity; and he scarcely opened his lips. The easy assurance of the young couple, indeed, was enough to provoke him. Elizabeth was disgusted, and even Miss Bennet was shocked. Lydia was Lydia still; untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy, and fearless. She turned from sister to sister, demanding their congratulations; and when at length they all sat down, looked eagerly round the room, took notice of some little alteration in it, and observed, with a laugh, that it was a great while since she had been there.

Wickham was not at all more distressed than herself, but his manners were always so pleasing, that had his character and his marriage been exactly what they ought, his smiles and his easy address, while he claimed their relationship, would have delighted them all. Elizabeth had not before believed him quite equal to such assurance; but she sat down, resolving within herself to draw no limits in future to the impudence of an impudent man. She blushed, and Jane blushed; but the cheeks of the two who caused their confusion suffered no variation of color.

News arrived after they had finished their luncheon that a party had returned to Netherfield and that, for certain, Mr. Bingley himself was a member. Jane and Elizabeth found solace from the circus that seemed now to be Longbourn in the hopes that long walks with gentlemen were in their near future.

The report was universally confirmed when Bingley himself arrived at Longbourn before dinnertime. Elizabeth was disappointed to see that he was alone and that his friend was not of the party. After pleasantries were exchanged, she inquired if he was at Netherfield. Bingley seemed confused but related that he returned to Pemberley but was expected to join him again within a week's time.

Days passed and Elizabeth heard nothing. Wickham and Lydia continued on as if nothing had been amiss in their behavior. In fact, Lydia made a point of letting everyone that she came into contact with know the fact that she was a married lady. She had in fact forgotten how the marriage came about and it made no difference to her. Jane and Elizabeth could hardly bear such displays and tried to avoid the happy couple as much as possible. For Jane, this was an easy task as would spend the days with Bingley. For Elizabeth, this was not so easy. When left alone, all she thought of was Darcy and when he would arrive.

She sought refuge out of doors which was her habit one afternoon to read a letter that had just arrived from Pemberley. The writing was unfamiliar, other than Darcy's but she still held out hope that it was from him. Upon opening it, she quickly scanned down to view the signature; it was from Molly and contained another letter within. Why Molly would be writing to her, she wondered. She just started to peruse the letter when she was roused from her seat, and her reflections, by some one's approach; and before she could strike into another path, she was overtaken by Wickham.

``I am afraid I interrupt your solitary ramble, my dear sister?'' said he, as he joined her.

``You certainly do,'' she replied with a smile; ``but it does not follow that the interruption must be unwelcome.''

``I should be sorry indeed, if it were. We were always good friends; and now we are better.''

``True. Are the others coming out?''

``I do not know. Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are going in the carriage to Meryton. And so, my dear sister, I find, from our uncle and aunt, that you have actually seen Pemberley.''

She replied in the affirmative.

``I almost envy you the pleasure, and yet I believe it would be too much for me, or else I could take it in my way to Newcastle. And you saw the old housekeeper, I suppose? Poor Reynolds, she was always very fond of me. But of course she did not mention my name to you.''

``Yes, she did.''

``And what did she say?''

``That you were gone into the army, and she was afraid had -- not turned out well. At such a distance as that, you know, things are strangely misrepresented.''

``Certainly,'' he replied, biting his lips. Elizabeth hoped she had silenced him; but he soon afterwards said, "I was surprised to see Darcy in town last month. We passed each other several times. I wonder what he can be doing there.''

``I believe it was to be of assistance to my father,'' said Elizabeth. ``but he may have other concerns there. It must be something particular, to take him there at this time of year.''

``Undoubtedly. You were at staying at Pemberley, were you not? I thought I understood from my dear Lydia that you and Mr. Darcy were engaged for a brief time. I must say that I was surprised for I did not know you were inclined in that direction.''

``You are correct: I was not, but we, all of us must try and think of our family," Elizabeth would not give him the satisfaction of knowing how his comment affected her and in her own way, referred more to the fact that Lydia had in actuality not thought of them before her flight. To change the subject, she added, "Miss Darcy and I are now friends.''

``And do you like her?''

``Very much.''

``I have heard, indeed, that she is uncommonly improved within this year or two. When I last saw her, she was not very promising. I am very glad you liked her. I hope she will turn out well.''

``I dare say she will; she has got over the most trying age.''

``Did you go by the village of Kympton?''

``I do not recollect that we did although the name is familiar.''

``I mention it, because it is the living which I ought to have had. A most delightful place! -- Excellent Parsonage House! It would have suited me in every respect.''

``How should you have liked making sermons?''

``Exceedingly well. I should have considered it as part of my duty, and the exertion would soon have been nothing. One ought not to repine; -- but, to be sure, it would have been such a thing for me! The quiet, the retirement of such a life would have answered all my ideas of happiness! But it was not to be. Did you ever hear Darcy mention the circumstance, when you were in Kent?''

``I have heard from authority, which I thought as good, that it was left you conditionally only, and at the will of the present patron.''

``You have. Yes, there was something in that; I told you so from the first, you may remember.''

``I did hear, too, that there was a time, when sermon-making was not so palatable to you as it seems to be at present; that you actually declared your resolution of never taking orders, and that the business had been compromised accordingly.''

``You did! and it was not wholly without foundation. You may remember what I told you on that point, when first we talked of it.''

They were now almost at the door of the house, for she had walked fast to get rid of him; and unwilling, for her sister's sake, to provoke him, she only said in reply, with a good-humored smile,

``Come, Mr. Wickham, we are brother and sister, you know. Do not let us quarrel about the past. In future, I hope we shall be always of one mind.''

She held out her hand; he kissed it with affectionate gallantry, though he hardly knew how to look, and they entered the house.

Elizabeth would not let him know how distressed she was. Why would Lydia say that they had been engaged for a short time? Had he planned to just forget her and never return? She ran to her room, with Molly's correspondence still in her hand, and laid it on her dressing table. She cast herself down on the bed and tried to make sense of it all but it would not become clear to her. She longed for Jane to come to her but Jane was occupied with Bingley; she could not take her away from him for her own selfishness. She tossed in the bed and suddenly, her emotions took her over and she cried herself to sleep.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Posted on Saturday, 12 February 2005

Mr. Wickham was so perfectly satisfied with this conversation that he never again distressed himself, or provoked his dear sister Elizabeth, by introducing the subject of it; and she was pleased to find that she had said enough to keep him quiet.

Their visitors were not to remain above ten days with them which were finally drawing to an end. Mr. Wickham had received his commission before he left London, and he was to join his regiment at the end of a fortnight.

No one but Mrs. Bennet regretted that their stay would be so short; and she had made the most of the time by visiting about with her daughter, and having very frequent parties at home. These parties were acceptable to all; to avoid a family circle was even more desirable to such as did think, than such as did not.

Wickham's affection for Lydia was just what Elizabeth had expected to find it; not equal to Lydia's for him. She had scarcely needed her present observation to be satisfied, from the reason of things, that their elopement had been brought on by the strength of her love, rather than by his; and she would have wondered why, without violently caring for her, he chose to elope with her at all, had she not felt certain that his flight was rendered necessary by distress of circumstances; and if that were the case, he was not the young man to resist an opportunity of having a companion.

Lydia was exceedingly fond of him. He was her dear Wickham on every occasion; no one was to be put in competition with him. He did every thing best in the world; and she was sure he would kill more birds on the first of September, than any body else in the country.

But the day of his and Lydia's departure had come, and Mrs. Bennet was forced to submit to a separation, which, as her husband by no means entered into her scheme of their all going to Newcastle, was likely to continue at least a twelvemonth.

``Oh! my dear Lydia,'' she cried, ``when shall we meet again?''

``Oh, lord! I don't know. Not these two or three years, perhaps.''

``Write to me very often, my dear.''

``As often as I can. But you know married women have never much time for writing. My sisters may write to me. They will have nothing else to do.''

Mr. Wickham's adieus were much more affectionate than his wife's. He smiled, looked handsome, and said many pretty things.

``He is as fine a fellow,'' said Mr. Bennet, as soon as they were out of the house, ``as ever I saw. He simpers, and smirks, and makes love to us all. I am prodigiously proud of him. I defy even Sir William Lucas himself to produce a more valuable son-in-law.''

The loss of her daughter made Mrs. Bennet very dull. ``I often think,'' said she, ``that there is nothing so bad as parting with one's friends. One seems so forlorn without them.''

``This is the consequence, you see, Madam, of marrying a daughter,'' said Elizabeth. ``It must make you better satisfied that your other four are single - at least for now.''

``It is no such thing. Lydia does not leave me because she is married, but only because her husband's regiment happens to be so far off. If that had been nearer, she would not have gone so soon. Jane will be at Netherfield and therefore still close to me!''

But the spiritless condition which this event threw her into was shortly relieved, and her mind opened again to the agitation of hope, by an article of news which then began to be in circulation. Another party had arrived at Netherfield, Mr. Darcy and his sister had joined the family party. Elizabeth was emotions were stirred by this, but in what manner she was not sure. Why had he come? Was it to break the engagement or to confirm its existence?

Mr. Darcy joined Mr. Bingley in coming to Longbourn that very afternoon. The Bennets were assembled in the drawing room. Seeing Mr. Darcy again, Mr. Bennet greeted him affectionately with a strong handshake. The color which had been driven from Elizabeth's face, returned for half a minute with an additional glow, and a smile of delight added luster to her eyes, as she thought for that space of time that his affection and wishes must still be unshaken. But she would not be secure.

``Let me first see how he behaves,'' said she; ``it will then be early enough for expectation.''

Elizabeth said as little to either as civility would allow, and sat down again to her work, with an eagerness which it did not often command. She had ventured only one glance at Darcy. He looked serious, as usual; and, she thought, more as he had been used to look in Hertfordshire, than as she had seen him at Pemberley. But, perhaps he could not in her mother's presence be what he was before her uncle and aunt. It was a painful, but not an improbable, conjecture.

Darcy, after enquiring of her how Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner did, a question which she could not answer without confusion, said scarcely any thing. He was not seated by her; perhaps that was the reason of his silence; but it had not been so in Derbyshire. There he had talked to her friends, when he could not to herself. But now several minutes elapsed without bringing the sound of his voice; and when occasionally, unable to resist the impulse of curiosity, she raised he eyes to his face, she as often found him looking at Jane as at herself, and frequently on no object but the ground. More thoughtfulness and less anxiety to please, than when they last met, were plainly expressed. She was disappointed, and angry with herself for being so.

``Could I expect it to be otherwise!'' said she. ``Yet why did he come?''

She was in no humor for conversation with any one but himself; and to him she had hardly courage to speak. She enquired after his sister, but could do no more. He responded that she was at present at Netherfield and eager to see her, which Elizabeth was pleased to hear.

Silence ensued. Finally, Elizabeth could take no more and begged to be excused. She noticed Darcy start as if surprised and it was apparent that he felt she was unwell.

"Miss Bennet, is there anything that I can do for you?" He asked, rising as if to follow her.

"You are all kindness, Mr. Darcy, forgive me, but I must retire to my chamber, a sudden headache." With that she slowly left the room without daring to look back at him. Once she was out of the door, she ran up the stairs to her room. As soon as she entered the room, she noticed the letter on the dressing table.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Posted on Saturday, 12 February 2005

How silly she thought she was for having allowed herself to forget something so important as a letter from Pemberley. For a moment, she stared at it. She was suddenly gripped with fear that it would be some indication that Darcy had left her, that it was in some way a goodbye. What was the use? What could Molly have to say - she would never be Mistress of Pemberley after all that had happened. She was curious though and Molly had taken such good care of her, she was genuinely fond of her, so she felt it was her duty to read her note.

Miss Bennet,
Please forgive me for this intrusion but when one of the housemaids, Margaret, to be specific, was cleaning your room, that is the chamber you recently stayed in at Pemberley. Anyway, as I was saying, she found this note when we removed the carpets for beating. Nonetheless, since it was addressed to you, I thought that I should forward it to your home. I hope that is what you would have wanted.
Molly

Elizabeth could hardly rip open the other letter for her hands were shaking in anticipation. There was no doubt, it was from Mr. Darcy, she recognized his writing from the way her name was written on the front.

My dearest,
I want nothing more than to stay here at Pemberley with you always but I feel I must leave. If it were not for our engagement, I'm sure that Lydia would not have been tempting for that scoundrel. He is now using your family to get back at me; I hope that you can forgive me for this pain you are enduring. It is my duty; I must go.

Forgive me also for reacting the way I did. When I heard you say that you loved me dearly now, I so wanted to turn and take you in my arms but my foolish pride was hurt and I needed time to reconcile myself to the truth. When I proposed, I thought you were expecting and truly wishing for my assurances. What must you think of me now - arrogant fool that I am. But what good did you know of me then? I understand that now and that you do love me. That is what matters - that is what we will build our future on. But we shall talk of this when I return.

Until then, my love, know that you are the dearest thing to my heart and you will be in my thoughts until you are in my presence.
F.D

Elizabeth's heart was overflowing, she ran downstairs back to the drawing room where she had left him. All she encountered was the remainder of the family party. Jane shocked to see the state that Elizabeth was in stood and exclaimed.

"Elizabeth!" Jane shrieked, "What is it?"

"Oh Jane, I'm such a fool - where is Mr. Darcy?"

Jane motioned toward the door and before she could relate that the gentlemen had left, Elizabeth had bolted from the room. She looked around the house and gardens but they were not in sight. She ran for the road to Netherfield, tears of joy running down her face. In the distance, she could see two gentlemen trotting along on horseback.

"Fitzwilliam!!! Fitzwilliam!!!" she called to them, breathless from running. They could not hear her she feared. With one last call, she stopped, "Fitzwilliam," for she could run no further.

The gentlemen turned and saw her. Darcy immediately reared his horse towards her, desperate to get to her to attempt to relieve her obvious distress. When Darcy was but ten feet from her, he slipped off his horse with great agility and dropped to his feet on the ground. She ran to him and was immediately accepted into his arms and protection.

Bingley, who immediately perceived that he was not needed, turned his horse back and decided to return to Netherfield.

"I thought that you would not come back to me, I thought you would not want me when I am Wickham's sister..."

"Oh, Elizabeth, you are not "Wickham's sister" you are Elizabeth Bennet, the woman that I love." He gently lifted her face by putting his forefinger to her chin. With the other hand, he dried her eyes with his handkerchief while smiling. "I thought that my letter would reassure you but it seems you need more."

"I just received it - I couldn't find it but Molly sent it. You were there in my room before you left - I thought it was a dream but you were there. I searched and searched but couldn't find it. Oh Fitzwilliam, forgive my foolishness ...Wickham said that Lydia had told him we were engaged for a short time and I thought you would not return. Then Bingley showed up alone and I thought that was a confirmation of it."

"That is my fault my love, Wickham was unreasonable and I knew the reason was that he figured that I would pay to protect my wife or in this case, her family. Which I would have gladly, but I told Lydia that you had called off our wedding (which I thought you might) because of it being my fault that Wickham pursued her. She didn't believe that Wickham had ulterior motives but this was leverage for me against him. If you were not my fiancée, my interest in the matter was lessened and he was forced to be reasonable. As far as not coming to Netherfield right away, it was because I wanted to bring dear Georgiana from Pemberley and I wanted to wait for Lydia and Wickham to leave - I did not want to subject my sister to the news of their marriage and their presence. Did not Bingley or your father dispel this for you?"

"I did not mention my fears to either, I'm afraid, not even to Jane, but my father did say something about you ranting about your love for me. However, I could not force my doubt from my mind. But I can no longer help thanking you for your unexampled kindness to my poor sister. It was not your fault nor your responsibility for they are two ordinary people, one solely out for pleasure and money and the other vain and conceited. Ever since I have known it, I have been most anxious to acknowledge to you how gratefully I feel it. Let me thank you again and again, in the name of all my family, for that generous compassion which induced you to take so much trouble, and bear so many mortifications, for the sake of discovering them.''

``If you will thank me,'' he replied, ``let it be for yourself alone. That the wish of giving happiness to you might add force to the other inducements which led me on, I shall not attempt to deny. But your family owes me nothing. Much as I respect them, I believe I thought only of you.''

Elizabeth was too much embarrassed to say a word. After a short pause, her companion added, ``You are too generous to trifle with me. Oh my love, tell me one thing, is this what you truly want, are you sure that you want to marry, not for money, not for security, not for your family, but for you, do you want to be Mrs. Darcy? I would rather provide for your security than to have to enter into a marriage that you do not desire. Look me in the eye and tell me if this is what you want."

Elizabeth, feeling all the more than common awkwardness and anxiety of his situation, now forced herself to speak. "Fitzwilliam," she lifted her eyes and solemnly stared into his, "there is nothing that I want more than to be Mrs. Darcy, I would not care if you had no money, no Pemberley, or even if you saved Lydia from disgrace. I love you so very deeply and yes, there is nothing that I want more than to marry you."

They wondered on for some time, just simply holding hands, until they realized that Elizabeth should really be back at Longbourn for the remainder of the day short and the shadows were growing longer. As they entered the garden on the west side of Longbourn, Jane joyously beheld their advance from the window where she silently had held a vigil for her sister's return. She knew that Elizabeth was disconcerted when she left and it worried her because although she knew it concerned Mr. Darcy, she did not know the reason. Jane smiled to herself though, seeing that Elizabeth was alright and in Mr. Darcy's protection, and went back to her work when just as she noticed Darcy lean down to kiss her beloved sister.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Posted on Saturday, 12 February 2005

Darcy arrived at Longbourn every morning as early as would be proper. Rumors from Netherfield reported that he was actually known to be dressed at dawn and in poor weather he would pace the halls of the mansion until the time arrived that he could call for his horse.

Darcy was not the only one. Miss Elizabeth was also known to be found in the park of Longbourn waiting for Darcy to arrive every morning. When together, they seemed not to notice anyone else and instead enjoyed long walks in each other's company around the countryside.

No one found this offensive except perhaps Mr. Bennet. Not only did he have the misfortune of seeing his favorite daughter prefer another man's company, he had to deal with the fact that she would soon be leaving for Derbyshire and he would not have the joy of seeing her often. He would watch them walk in the gardens or just when they were sitting and talking. He now respected Darcy above any man but also envied him that he was able to steal away his beloved treasure.

Wedding talk soon began to make Mr. Bennet leave his sanctuary, his library, for the commotion was so great, solace was not to be found in the confines of Longbourn. As he began walking the gardens, for his stroke still kept him from removing too far from the boundaries of home, he was immediately joined by his Lizzie and her young man. "Papa, what are you doing out here all by yourself? Please, take my arm, and let us sit her under the large oak." Gently she led him to a small stone bench that the great branches of the tree shaded from the glaring rays of the sun.

"Lizzy, I don't now whether or not to look forward to this wedding or not. When it comes, peace may be restored but my dear, it means that you and your sister Jane will be gone and I will not have a sensible conversation again in this house. All I have heard since Lydia left is wedding clothes, wedding clothes, wedding clothes!"

Elizabeth made a slight frown, empathizing with her father's situation. Darcy on seeing her sad expression could not help but be moved and he understood wanting to escape the chaos that was the Bennet home. "You know Mr. Bennet, you are always welcome at Pemberley and at the townhouse in London. I, that is we," taking Elizabeth's hand, "will always be glad to see you."

Mr. Bennet smiled at Darcy, "Thank you my boy, I appreciate that, but when you see how very often I take you up on that, I'm afraid that you may change your mind. In the meantime, I propose a short trip to London, what do you say to that my dear. I know that this mess with Lydia prematurely ended your trip to Pemberley and you were to shop with Jane in London. Now you and Jane and your mother could shop to your hearts content from Gracechurch Street. I, on the other hand, may take up my future sons' offers and enjoy the peace and sanctuary of their homes!"

"Oh, Papa!" Elizabeth admonished her father but before she could think of the practicality of the plan, Darcy interjected.

"That is an excellent arrangement! I have so wanted you to see the house in London and with your father there as my guest, you could come and go as you pleased! And Georgiana could join us!"

"You forget, sir, that I have made no answer! Let me do that now! I think it is a wonderful idea! I will go ask my mother now!"

Both men smiled as Lizzie ran towards the house and until she entered its confines, she held their gaze. She could not help looking with admiration at the two men that meant the most to her.

Neither man said a word while Lizzie was still in sight. Darcy took the opportunity to again let Mr. Bennet know that he meant his invitation to Derbyshire and thanked him, because Darcy credited him with bringing the two of them together.

Mr. Bennet was confused but decided it was best not to pursue it and instead started into another thought. "Mr. Darcy, you are a good man, I can see that now. I owe you a great deal for what you did for me and what you did for Lydia but I am giving you my greatest gift. I am giving you my Lizzy and by seeing the way she looks at you, and vice versa I might add, makes me think you an even greater man!"

Mr. Darcy began to evoke Lizzy's fine qualities and how lucky he was when they were interrupted by exclaims from the house. It seemed that Mrs. Bennet was quite happy with the plan and was already shouting orders for packing.

"It seems Mr. Darcy," Mr. Bennet said turning toward the house with Darcy and patting him on the back, "we have packing to do. Oh, and I was serious about staying with you. I hope you don' t mind, my dear boy!"

It took Mr. Bennet at least half an hour to convince Mrs. Bennet that they could not leave immediately. He would write to her brother Gardiner explaining their plans while Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy would write to their houses in London to have them prepared. Mrs. Bennet, however, did not see any reason to wait and had her and her daughters' trunks packed immediately.

So letters were sent and responses were received; all was agreed upon in a mere three days' time. To celebrate, a special dinner was held at Netherfield. Since the party was set to leave at first light the next day, the carriages were called for directly after dinner. As the Bennet family departed for their trip home, Darcy stopped Lizzie and gently holding her hands, looked into her eyes. "Oh my love, this is the last time that I will take you to one of our houses and not make you stay! How I wish that you were coming there as my wife. Oh my love, I so hope that you like it - it is not Pemberley but I think that it will do."

"Oh dearest, it would not matter if it were a shack as long as you are there. I'm sure though that I shall love it. But I leave you now; it will make it that much quicker until we leave for London tomorrow. Goodnight my dearest."

Elizabeth looked around and saw that no one was looking; she reached up to the tips of her toes and bestowed upon Darcy a quick kiss and ran for the carriage.

Darcy called to her, "is that all my love?"

Playfully, she looked back, "for now, my good sir, for now!"

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Posted on Monday, 14 February 2005

Elizabeth looked out her chamber window with trepidation fearing that the inclement weather might prevent their planned travel. Although the sun was hidden from view, the day was bright and the road looked clear. Although she dared not admit to herself, she desperately longed to see her future London home. After the grandeur of Pemberley, she could only imagine what London would have in store for her.

Strangely, that morning the Bennet household was relatively quiet for a large party preparing for removal to London. Elizabeth thought what a difference Lydia's departure had made. She thought how different her sister's trip to London was from the one that they were about to take.

Elizabeth made sure that special care was taken to her appearance and when she finally made her way down stairs, the rest of ladies of the house were making ready their trunks while the gentleman of the house instructed the loading of their carriage.

Mr. Bennet was not thrilled with the traveling arrangements for to allow the Bennets more room, it was decided that Elizabeth was to ride in the Darcy carriage and Jane in the Bingley carriage. Riding all the way to London with his wife and two of his very silly daughters was not the ideal situation for him. In fact, under normal circumstances, it would have been enough to induce him to stay home. The promise, however, of not having to continue in London with them and London offering many favorable distractions was the motivation he needed to make the trip.

As the last of the trunks were loaded under the family's eye, two carriages were seen on the road approaching Longbourn. Elizabeth felt an uneasiness in her stomach and she was unsure whether it was because of Darcy's imminent approach or seeing their house in London. The gentlemen quickly alighted the carriages and greeted their fair ladies as well as their families.

"Good morning Mr. Bennet!" Darcy called to his future father-in-law, "Are you sure that you would not like to join us in our carriage for the ride? It would afford Mrs. Bennet and Mary and Kitty more room!"

Elizabeth could not believe her ears. The look on her face must have betrayed her thoughts but Darcy looked down upon her with a wink and a smile. She was not sure if her father and Darcy had planned it but her father acknowledged that it was a wonderful idea and was seated in the Darcy carriage quickly before Mrs. Bennet could protest. Elizabeth didn't say anything, while she looked forward to spending the trip with Georgiana and her beloved, she realized that she could still do that while sharing them with her father. She smiled at Darcy and he handed her up into the carriage.

Once they were underway, Elizabeth immediately understood Darcy's plan and approved immensely. He began conversing with her father so that she could talk unabated with Georgiana. This allowed both pairings to become better acquainted and she couldn't be happier about it. Although Elizabeth had made an effort to promote a friendship with Georgiana, it seemed as though they couldn't find the time to spend together since Elizabeth's removal from Pemberley.

The trip was happily thus spent conversing. Elizabeth noticed Darcy asking Mr. Bennet's advice on business matters which pleased her greatly. And with every word her future husband spoke, she could see him rising in her father's estimation. She was sure after this trip he would definitely be her father's favorite.

Before she knew, Elizabeth could see the outskirts of London approaching although it would still be some time before she arrived at Gracechurch Street. Once there the entire party would dine with the Gardiners and then proceed to their various houses. Elizabeth would not see the townhouse until tomorrow.

All the Gardiners came out to meet the carriages as they arrived and dinner was a pleasant affair. Elizabeth was amazed to see Darcy take pains to participate in the conversation. Indeed, he looked to be enjoying himself! She could not help but see the difference in him, or at least in her opinion of him and the change it had undergone.

Even Georgiana, although she rarely spoke, seemed to enjoy the dinner gathering. Kitty was developing a friendship with the young girl and Elizabeth felt that they could have a positive influence on each other. Kitty was not so wholly unmanageable as she was under Lydia's influence and Georgiana's natural reserve had to be beneficial. Kitty, on the other hand, liked to laugh and her extraverted tendencies would help to draw out Georgiana's shyness. She had never had a true friend near her own age.

Instead of the gentlemen retiring to their brandies, it was decided that they would leave directly after dinner. Although she denied it, it was obvious that Georgiana was fatigued. As tomorrow promised a busy day of shopping, Darcy thought it best that she rest now. The ladies would head out shopping in the morning and return for tea to Betrile House, the Darcy townhouse.

The elder Bennet daughters walked their guests to the door along with their father who despite their mother's protest was still planning on escaping with his future son-in-law. He insisted that he had important wedding matters to discuss with Darcy and wanted to make sure that Betrile House was good enough for his daughter. Mrs. Bennet, while sure that Darcy would not own anything but the best, was persuaded enough by the wedding contract argument to relent and let him go.

"Good night Elizabeth." Mr. Bennet said as he proceeded to the carriage with Georgiana, "Don't be long son!"

"I can't wait until tomorrow when you see our house! I hope that you approve."

"I'm sure that I will, if you like it, I'm sure that I will love it. I must admit that I'm nervous - this time the servants will know who I am - what if they hate me?"

"My darling Elizabeth, they will love you. Mrs. Kennedy is a wonderful caring woman and runs the household like clockwork. She was wonderful with Georgiana so I don't doubt that she will take you under her wing." Motioning over his shoulder, he added, "I think that your father is timing our good bye so I had better go. Until tomorrow, my darling." Sneaking a peek at the carriage, Mr. Bennet was indeed keeping a watchful eye over his beloved daughter. Darcy although he desperately wanted to kiss Elizabeth, instead chose to kiss her hand and departed.

Waking up at the Gardiner' house was always something that Elizabeth had enjoyed. The loving atmosphere and the familiarity of the family made it a joy to be there. Today, it was an even greater joy. Elizabeth had never been one for shopping. She like any other woman loved a new dress but she never felt enthusiastic about picking out material. Today was different however. Today she chose her wedding clothes and she could hardly believe that the time had come.

They had barely eaten breakfast when they heard a carriage approach. Georgiana it seems was just, if not more excited than Elizabeth. Finally, the party was ready to set out - Mrs. Bennet, Jane, Elizabeth, Kitty, Mrs. Gardiner, and Georgiana piled into two carriages, the Darcy and Gardiner carriages for there were so many of them. They prevailed upon Mary to join them but she refused claiming no interest in such an expedition. Elizabeth and Jane joined Georgiana in the Darcy carriage which was first and because of this, the sisters insisted that Georgiana choose the first store that they would attend.

The owner rushed to meet them and was obviously acquainted with Miss Darcy. Elizabeth could see that the attention made the young girl uncomfortable but she persevered and introduced her future sister-in-law. The others had never been to this store before and were astounded by the wonderful fabrics - luxurious and the sheer multitude of choices. The owner brought out many samples for the brides to look at and after asking for their personal tastes and looking at their coloring, made wonderful suggestions. When Jane and Elizabeth were finished, they were surprised that the whole morning had been spent at Mr. Fluere's shop but that they had made most the purchases they would need. Although Mrs. Bennet objected, they knew they were done for the day.

When Elizabeth approached Mr. Fluere about settling payment, he informed her that it was already taken care of - that Darcy's were wonderful customers and he looked forward to Mrs. Darcy's visits in the future. She blushed for she was not used to the attention she had received. For the first time, she was referred to as "Mrs. Darcy" and this was her first experience of seeing what her life would be like.

Chapter Thirty

Posted on Monday, 14 February 2005

The carriages proceeded up ___street and approached large, stately homes. Georgiana was quick to point out her home down the block on the left side. Elizabeth felt her stomach lurch as the carriage approached and she saw her London home for the first time. It would be a moment that she would remember for the rest of her life. Pemberley would always be her favorite home because there she realized his worth but now she was seeing their home when she knew that her true love possessed it. He was responsible for all details of life there and she treasured everything that related to him.

The stately façade of Betrile House was a little intimidating until she saw Darcy coming to greet them. He looked as nervous as she felt. As the footman opened the carriage door, Darcy was there waiting to hand her down.

"My dearest Elizabeth," taking her hand to his lips, "Mrs. Bennet, Mrs. Gardiner, welcome to Betrile House."

"My dear Mr. Darcy, what a lovely home! I can't wait to tell my sister Phillips all about it. Is it not a lovely home, Madeline?"

Darcy ignored his mother-in-law's compliments and began to lead Elizabeth followed by the rest of the party up the stairs. "My dear, I must warn you, the servants are waiting to meet you in the foyer. There are not as many here as there are at Pemberley but I thought that I had better warn you."

"Well, not as many as Pemberley - well, why even mention it then!" Elizabeth said with a smile on her face. The footman opened the door and Elizabeth found herself in a large foyer. The floor was a beautiful marble all the way up the staircase in front of her. A large crystal chandelier was suspended above and the room was filled with people. Elizabeth had almost forgotten that day at Pemberley when she was introduced to all the staff. She couldn't remember how many people were there then but she couldn't imagine it was more than the amount assembled before her now.

She was suddenly aware of her mother talking behind her. Not so much her mother talking, it was more the fact that she suddenly stopped.

"Elizabeth, this is Mrs. Kennedy."

"Miss, let me just say how wonderful it is to make your acquaintance." Elizabeth instantly liked her. She was a somewhat stout woman with auburn hair pulled back to a bun and friendly green eyes. Her good nature was apparent in her face."

"The pleasure is mine, Mrs. Kennedy. Mr. Darcy speaks very highly of you; I look forward to getting to know you better."

Darcy made the important introduction of Elizabeth to the staff and then introduced her to each one individually. Darcy asked Elizabeth if she would like to say something or to proceed into tea.

After debating a hasty retreat, Elizabeth turned back. "Thank you all for welcoming me and my family to Betrile House. I'm sure that in time that I will get to know you all but please forgive me if it takes a little time to know all your names!" Darcy was beaming and it was obvious to all of his staff that he loved this woman deeply. That was good enough for them. The respect and admiration that they felt for him led them to accept her on those merits alone.

Glasses were passed and a toast was called for. "To Miss Bennet!" "To Mr. Darcy!" Mr. Darcy toasted too - to a very happy future for them all. Finally, Mrs. Kennedy hurried the workers to their duties. Mr. Bennet was waiting in the dining room when his family entered. He was sure that they had been productive while shopping and was even more relieved that he had not accompanied them when Mrs. Bennet began talking of lace.

Darcy offered to take Elizabeth and her family on a tour of the house. It all seemed so overwhelming to her. So much to take in. The rooms were well proportioned and fitted up beautifully - in the same good taste as Pemberley. Elizabeth tried to make note of what changes she would like but felt that few were needed. Finally, she was showed her rooms. The light green colors accented the dark mahogany wood. "Oh, Fitzwilliam, it's perfect! I wouldn't change a thing!"

Mrs. Kennedy chuckled "That's a good thing miss, the master had it fitted up special for you! He saw to every detail himself." Elizabeth's heart swelled at the trouble he had taken and the smile she bestowed upon was all the thanks that he could ask for.

Darcy suggested that they all go for a drive for it was a lovely day. When Elizabeth owned that she was fatigued, he insisted that she be allowed to rest claiming that he would not have her fall ill before their wedding. Kitty longed to see London so she pressed her future brother to still drive out. Although reluctant, he saw that they rest of the party would enjoy the outing and acquiesced to the proposal. Bidding farewell to Elizabeth, he promised to call back for her in two hours time.

Chapter Thirty-One

Posted on Thursday, 3 March 2005

After saying goodbye to her family, Elizabeth returned to her chamber and walked cautiously around her room to be able to take it all in. She ran her hand down the beautiful coverlet - he had bought it for her. She knew she should be resting but too many thoughts were flowing through her head. This was to be hers; with these rooms, she was to be intimately familiar. She left the bed chamber and went back to her sitting room and sat down on the settee by the fire. How many pleasant days will be spent doing just this she thought.

A gentle knock from Mrs. Kennedy at the door jarred her from her thoughts. "Begging your pardon Miss, I didn't want to disturb you if you were resting. Mr. Darcy has a visitor and when I told her that Mr. Darcy was not in, I mentioned you're were here. She insisted upon speaking to you immediately; I would have sent her away but it is Mr. Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine."

"Oh," was the only response that came to her mind. She had never asked Fitzwilliam if he had told his aunt and she really didn't want to face her alone. But Lady Catherine was there and could not be ignored. "Mrs. Kennedy, please tell her that I will be down to the drawing room directly." Checking her appearance in the mirror, she waited a moment and followed. She laughed to herself that Lady Catherine should be the first person that she welcomed to her home. As she passed through the entrance hall, Elizabeth noticed Lady Catherine's carriage remained at the door, and Elizabeth saw that her waiting-woman was in it. She took a deep breath and opened the drawing room door.

"Lady Catherine, how pleasant to see you! I'm sorry that Fitzwilliam is not here to receive you."

"Fitzwilliam? Miss Bennet," sneered Lady Catherine. "Never mind, I would rather talk to you. Would you join me in the garden?" She didn't wait for Elizabeth's answer and proceeded from the room. As they passed through the hall, Lady Catherine opened the doors into the garden and walked on without looking back.

They proceeded in silence along the gravel walk that led to the garden; Elizabeth was determined to make no effort for conversation with a woman who was now acting more insolent and disagreeable than was usual.

"How could I ever think her like her nephew?" said she, as she followed behind.

As soon as they entered the garden, Lady Catherine began in the following manner:--

"You can be at no loss, Miss Bennet, to understand the reason of my journey hither. Your own heart, your own conscience, must tell you why I come."

Elizabeth looked with unaffected astonishment.

"Indeed, you are mistaken, Madam. I have not been at all able to account for the honour of seeing you here except that you came to see your nephew or niece."

"Miss Bennet," replied her ladyship, in an angry tone, "you ought to know, that I am not to be trifled with. But however insincere you may choose to be, you shall not find me so. My character has ever been celebrated for its sincerity and frankness, and in a cause of such moment as this, I shall certainly not depart from it. A report of a most alarming nature reached me two days ago. I was told that not only your sister was to be most advantageously married, but that you, that Miss Elizabeth Bennet are to be united to my nephew, my own nephew, Mr. Darcy. Though I thought it must be a scandalous falsehood, though I would not injure him so much as to suppose the truth of it possible, I instantly resolved on setting off for this place, that I might make my sentiments known to him. Obviously, since you are here and feel that you own such a place as to welcome guests, it must be true."

"If you believed it impossible to be true," said Elizabeth, colouring with astonishment and disdain, "I wonder you took the trouble of coming so far. What could your ladyship propose by it?"

"At once to insist upon having such a report universally contradicted but it is not too late, will you remove yourself from this situation and separate from my nephew? How could you aspire to such a match?"

"I do not pretend to possess equal frankness with your ladyship. You may ask questions which I shall not choose to answer."

"This is not to be borne. Miss Bennet, I insist on being satisfied. Will you leave this house and never return?"

"Your ladyship would wish me to abandon your nephew just like that?"

"It ought to be so; it must be so, and then he may regain the use of his reason. But your arts and allurements may, in a moment of infatuation, have made him forget what he owes to himself and to all his family. You may have drawn him in but he will come to his senses."

"If I have, I shall be the last person to confess it and I will not desert him."

"Miss Bennet, do you know who I am? I have not been accustomed to such language as this. I am almost the nearest relation he has in the world, and am entitled input into all his dearest concerns."

"But you are not entitled to mine; nor will such behaviour as this, ever induce me to be persuaded."

"Let me be rightly understood. This match, to which you have the presumption to aspire, will never take place. No, never. Mr. Darcy is engaged to my daughter. Now what have you to say?"

"Only this; that if he is so, he would have never made an offer to me."

Lady Catherine hesitated for a moment, and then replied:

"The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. From their infancy, they have been intended for each other. It was the favourite wish of his mother, as well as of hers. While in their cradles, we planned the union: and now, at the moment when the wishes of both sisters would be accomplished in their marriage, to be prevented by a young woman of inferior birth, of no importance in the world, and wholly unallied to the family! Do you pay no regard to the wishes of his friends? To his tacit engagement with Miss de Bourgh? Are you lost to every feeling of propriety and delicacy? Have you not heard me say that from his earliest hours he was destined for his cousin?"

"Yes, and I had heard it before. But what is that to me? If there is no other objection to my marrying your nephew, I shall certainly not be kept from it by knowing that his mother and aunt wished him to marry Miss de Bourgh. You both did as much as you could in planning the marriage. Its completion depended on others. If Mr. Darcy is neither by honour nor inclination confined to his cousin, why is not he to make another choice? And if I am that choice, why may not I accept him?"

"Because honour, decorum, prudence, nay, interest, forbid it. Yes, Miss Bennet, interest; for do not expect to be noticed by his family or friends, if you willfully act against the inclinations of all. You will be censured, slighted, and despised, by everyone connected with him. Your alliance will be a disgrace; your name will never even be mentioned by any of us."

"These are heavy misfortunes," replied Elizabeth. "But as the wife of Mr. Darcy I would have such extraordinary sources of happiness necessarily attached to my situation, that I could, upon the whole, have no cause to repine."

"Obstinate, headstrong girl! I am ashamed of you! Is this your gratitude for my attentions to you last spring? Is nothing due to me on that score? Let us sit down. You are to understand, Miss Bennet, that I came here with the determined resolution of carrying my purpose; nor will I be dissuaded from it. I have not been used to submit to any person's whims. I have not been in the habit of brooking disappointment."

"That will make your ladyship's situation at present more pitiable; but it will have no effect on me."

"I will not be interrupted. Hear me in silence. My daughter and my nephew are formed for each other. They are descended, on the maternal side, from the same noble line; and, on the father's, from respectable, honourable, and ancient-though untitled--families. Their fortune on both sides is splendid. They are destined for each other by the voice of every member of their respective houses; and what is to divide them? The upstart pretensions of a young woman without family, connections, or fortune. Is this to be endured! But it must not, shall not be. If you were sensible of your own good, you would not wish to quit the sphere in which you have been brought up."

"In marrying your nephew, I should not consider myself as quitting that sphere. He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman's daughter; so far we are equal."

"True. You are a gentleman's daughter. But who was your mother? Who are your uncles and aunts? Do not imagine me ignorant of their condition."

"Whatever my connections may be," said Elizabeth, "if your nephew does not object to them, they can be nothing to you."

"Tell me once for all, are you determined to marry him?"

Though Elizabeth would not, for the mere purpose of obliging Lady Catherine, have answered this question, it was a response that she did not have to make.

"She is!" Darcy had entered the garden and quickly moved to her side.

"Fitzwilliam Darcy - this is absurd! How can you ignore the wishes of all your family! Miss Bennet, you must be reasonable. Surely, you can see that this is a mistake. You must promise me not to go through with it."

"She will do not such thing and if, Lady Catherine, you can not accept her as my wife and the mistress of Pemberley, I will be forced to ask you to leave."

"Miss Bennet I am shocked and astonished. I expected to find a more reasonable young woman. But do not deceive yourself into a belief that I will ever recede. I shall not go away till you have given me the assurance I require."

"And I certainly never shall give it. I am not to be intimidated into anything so wholly unreasonable. Your ladyship wants Mr. Darcy to marry your daughter; but would my giving you the wished-for promise make their marriage at all more probable? He is attached to me, would my refusing to accept his hand make him wish to bestow it on his cousin? Allow me to say, Lady Catherine, that the arguments with which you have supported this extraordinary application have been as frivolous as the application was ill-judged. You have widely mistaken my character, if you think I can be worked on by such persuasions as these. How far your nephew approves of your interference in his affairs, I cannot tell; but you have certainly no right to concern yourself in mine. I must beg, therefore, to be importuned no farther on the subject."

"Not so hasty, if you please. I have by no means done. To all the objections I have already urged, I have still another to add. I am no stranger to the particulars of your youngest sister's infamous elopement. I know it all; that the young man's marrying her was a patched-up business, at the expense of your father and uncles. And is such a girl to be my nephew's sister? Is her husband, is the son of his late father's steward, to be his brother? Heaven and earth!-of what are you thinking? Are the shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted?"

"You can now have nothing further to say," Darcy resentfully answered. "You have insulted me and Elizabeth in every possible method. I must beg to return her to the house."

And she accepted his proffered arm for support for him to escort her as he spoke. Lady Catherine arose, and they turned back. Her ladyship was highly incensed.

"You have no regard, then, for the honour and credit of our family! Unfeeling, selfish girl! Do you not consider that a connection with you must disgrace him in the eyes of everybody?"

"Lady Catherine, I have nothing further to say. I love your nephew and would never dishonor him in any way. By marrying him, I don't think that I would be doing so. You know my sentiments."

"You are then resolved to have him?"

" I am only resolved to act in that manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me. So, yes."

"It is well. You refuse, then, to oblige me. You refuse to obey the claims of duty, honour, and gratitude. You are determined to ruin him in the opinion of all his friends, and make him the contempt of the world."

"Neither duty, nor honour, nor gratitude," replied Elizabeth, "have any possible claim on me, in the present instance. No principle of either would be violated by my marriage with Mr. Darcy. And with regard to the resentment of his family, or the indignation of the world, if the former were excited by his marrying me, it would not give me one moment's concern-and the world in general would have too much sense to join in the scorn."

In this same manner Lady Catherine talked on, till they were at the door of the carriage, when, turning hastily round, she added, "I take no leave of you, Miss Bennet. I send no compliments to your family. You deserve no such attention. Darcy, I am most seriously displeased."

As her ladyship's carriage pulled away, Darcy began to laugh. Elizabeth astonished at his sudden outburst inquired what could possibly be funny in this situation, Darcy replied, "I knew that I loved you before but knowing you can hold your own with Aunt Catherine, why you have my total respect." He mocked bowed.

"Seriously, Fitzwilliam, if you agree with her or want to give into her wishes, I would understand."

"After all we have been through - not a chance."

"Well then, Lady Catherine has been of infinite use, which ought to make her happy, for she loves to be of use." He smiled and offered his arm to lead her into the house.

Chapter Thirty-Two

Posted on Monday, 14 March 2005

The parties enjoyed London with the Gardiners but the approaching weddings eventually made it necessary to remove themselves back to Hertfordshire for the happiness of all. Mrs. Bennet exclaimed that she had never known such joy as that happiest of days approached.

On that fateful morning, a messenger arrived at Longbourn from Netherfield carrying gifts from the grooms for their brides. Mr. Bingley had sent Jane a beautiful set of pearls with matching ear bobs that he had recently purchased.

Elizabeth was presented with a case of soft burgundy velvet. From its worn edges it was obvious that her present was older, much older. With her parents and sister watching, she carefully opened the case to see that it contained a stunning emerald necklace that obviously matched her engagement ring. She felt a shiver as her father placed the exquisite gems around her neck. The note attached was simple.

My darling,

Now the set is together which makes it complete as we shall be by the end of this day.

F.

Complete, Elizabeth thought, the term was correct. She had never thought about it but he was the missing piece of her life. But he was missing no more.

You would think that the advantage of having three daughters married, two very advantageously, would have had a calming effect on Mrs. Bennet however, she was still occasionally nervous and invariably silly. Mrs. Bennet passed on within three years of this happy day and lived to see no more of her children married. Mister Bennet married Mrs. Annesley, Georgiana companion, and to the happy surprise to all (except Mr. Collins) welcomed a son, William Bennet.

Mr. Bennet missed his second daughter exceedingly; his affection for her drew him and his new family oftener from home than any thing else could do. He delighted in going to Pemberley, especially when he was least expected.

Mr. Bingley and Jane remained at Netherfield only a twelvemonth. So near a vicinity to her mother and Meryton relations was not desirable even to his easy temper, or her affectionate heart. The darling wish of his sisters was then gratified; he bought an estate in a neighbouring county to Derbyshire, and Jane and Elizabeth, in addition to every other source of happiness, were within thirty miles of each other. The Bingleys welcomed two daughters in the five years that followed. Finally after twelve years of marriage when they expected no more children, they welcomed a son, Bennet Bingley.

Kitty, to her very material advantage, spent the chief of her time with her two elder sisters. In society so superior to what she had generally known, her improvement was great. She was not of so ungovernable a temper as Lydia; and, removed from the influence of Lydia's example, she became, by proper attention and management, less irritable, less ignorant, and less insipid. Kitty ended up marrying the vicar at Kympton, who had the living that old Mr. Darcy had planned for Wickham.

Mary was the only daughter who remained at home; and she was necessarily drawn from the pursuit of accomplishments by Mrs. Bennet's being quite unable to sit alone. Mary was obliged to mix more with the world, but she could still moralize over every morning visit; and as she was no longer mortified by comparisons between her sisters' beauty and her own, it was suspected by her father that she submitted to the change without much reluctance. She married her uncle Gardiner's clerk and when he passed, she became a Christian missionary.

As for Wickham and Lydia, their characters suffered no revolution from the marriage of her sisters. He bore with philosophy the conviction that Elizabeth must now become acquainted with whatever of his ingratitude and falsehood had before been unknown to her; and in spite of every thing, was not wholly without hope that Darcy might yet be prevailed on to make his fortune. The congratulatory letter which Elizabeth received from Lydia on her marriage, explained to her that, by his wife at least, if not by himself, such a hope was cherished. The letter was to this effect:

My Dear Lizzy,

I wish you joy. If you love Mr. Darcy half as well as I do my dear Wickham, you must be very happy. It is a great comfort to have you so rich, and when you have nothing else to do, I hope you will think of us. I am sure Wickham would like a place at court very much, and I do not think we shall have quite money enough to live upon without some help. Any place would do, of about three or four hundred a year; but however, do not speak to Mr. Darcy about it, if you had rather not.

Yours, &c.

As it happened that Elizabeth had much rather not, she endeavoured in her answer to put an end to every entreaty and expectation of the kind. Such relief, however, as it was in her power to afford, by the practice of what might be called economy in her own private expenses, she frequently sent them. It had always been evident to her that such an income as theirs, under the direction of two persons so extravagant in their wants, and heedless of the future, must be very insufficient to their support; and whenever they changed their quarters, either Jane or herself were sure of being applied to for some little assistance towards discharging their bills. Lydia thankfully was not blest with children with Wickham. He was killed in a dual with a baronet for trifling with his daughter. By that time, Lydia had realized what her husband was and greatly settled down. Poverty and a loveless marriage had corrected Lydia's faults. She married with a country doctor who was introduced to her by her brother-in-law Darcy. She learned to truly honor her brother Darcy for in her maturity, she realized what it was that he had done for her.

Miss Bingley was very deeply mortified by Darcy's marriage; but as she thought it advisable to retain the right of visiting at Pemberley, she dropt all her resentment; was fonder than ever of Georgiana, almost as attentive to Darcy as heretofore, and paid off every arrear of civility to Elizabeth. She married Colonel Fitzwilliam believe it or not. He spent a great deal of time at Pemberley without his wife or if she was at Pemberley, he was somewhere else.

Pemberley was now Georgiana's home; and the attachment of the sisters was exactly what Darcy had hoped to see. They were able to love each other even as well as they intended. Georgiana had the highest opinion in the world of Elizabeth; though at first she often listened with an astonishment bordering on alarm at her lively, sportive, manner of talking to her brother. He, who had always inspired in herself a respect which almost overcame her affection, she now saw the object of open pleasantry. Her mind received knowledge which had never before fallen in her way. By Elizabeth's instructions, she began to comprehend that a woman may take liberties with her husband which a brother will not always allow in a sister more than ten years younger than himself. Darcy had great plans for his sister - at least an earl for her. But when she fell in love with a baronet of small fortune, it was his wife who reminded him that a family fortune wasn't everything. Sadly, she died in childbirth in her twenty-fifth year as did the child.

Lady Catherine was extremely indignant on the marriage of her nephew; and as she gave way to all the genuine frankness of her character in her reply to the letter which announced its arrangement, she sent him language so very abusive, especially of Elizabeth, that for some time all intercourse was at an end. But at length, by Elizabeth's persuasion, he was prevailed on to overlook the offence, and seek a reconciliation; and, after a little farther resistance on the part of his aunt, her resentment gave way, either to her affection for him, or her curiosity to see how his wife conducted herself; and she condescended to wait on them at Pemberley, in spite of that pollution which its woods had received, not merely from the presence of such a mistress, but the visits of her uncle and aunt from the city.

With the Gardiners, they were always on the most intimate terms. Darcy, as well as Elizabeth, really loved them; and they were both ever sensible of the warmest gratitude towards the persons who, by bringing her into Derbyshire, had been the means of uniting them.

Elizabeth and Darcy welcomed a son within the year. While Edward Darcy was the pride and joy of his parents, Elizabeth thought that Darcy bordered on jealousy of the attention instead of being given to him, was being lavished on his son. Edward was followed in turn by five sisters; a fact which made Mr. Bennet laugh and openly tease his son-in-law. Now he would know what it was like to be father to five girls.

They were known as the happiest of couples. Yes, they did argue but they shared a mutual regard that so few couples enjoy. When after fifty-five years of marriage Elizabeth fell ill, Darcy was by her side constantly. When she passes two months later, no one was surprised when they found his body by her grave. It was only a week later and they say that he died of a broken heart. Others say that life was not enough to separate them and their love would keep them together forever.

The End

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