Reminiscences and Recollections ~ Section I

By Ann R

Beginning, Next Section

Posted on Sunday, 8 June 2008

Chapter One

An express addressed to Mr. Darcy had just been delivered to Pemberley. After breaking the seal, he scanned the message quickly and his face drained. He returned to the beginning to read the message in detail, asking the express rider to wait while he drafted a reply. “Craven, do you know where Mrs. Darcy is? I need to speak with her urgently.”

“I believe I saw her with Mrs. Reynolds going over the household accounts. Would you like me to fetch her Sir?”

“Yes please. Try not to alarm her - but it appears that we may need to travel to London urgently. A close friend of ours is extremely ill. After fetching Mrs. Darcy, can you please arrange for someone to deliver an urgent message to my brother Bingley, as it appears we may be in need of his assistance.”

Craven nodded as he said “Certainly Sir, I will see to your requests immediately” and the butler turned and left.

Darcy went into his study, wrote out a reply, sealed it, and returned to the express rider with the message and some generous compensation for his efforts. Darcy then returned to his study to wait for Elizabeth. While waiting, he hid the correspondence in his pocket, as he knew that Elizabeth would wish to read any communication he had received, and he wished to delay complying with such a request until he had a chance to speak with her first.

Elizabeth tapped on the study door. “Is that you Mrs Darcy?” said Darcy.

She responded “Yes” then entered her husband's study. “Craven said you wished to see me?” Elizabeth noticed her husband was looking concerned, she suddenly became alarmed, as she had seen the back of a man leaving - what has made him appear so troubled?

“Is everything alright? You look worried. Is there something wrong? Was that a messenger just leaving? Please tell me - is something wrong with Jane's family,or a problem at Longbourn?”

The last time Elizabeth had seen her husband with a similar concerned look it was in relation to a message they received regarding an illness that finally resulted in the death of her mother some 3 years previous.

“No, there is nothing wrong with Jane or at Longbourn but I do have to tell you that there is someone we know that is very ill.” He saw the colour drain from her face. Darcy stood immediately going to her, then took both her hands and led her to the lounge. Darcy sat Elizabeth down, but held onto her hands. He felt her start to tremble, and was most concerned that she appeared faint.

“Not our Aunts or Uncles?” replied Elizabeth with a hesitant voice. She had difficulty in raising her eyes to look at her husband squarely in the eye.

“No my dear, it's about Lady Lyell.” He withdrew one hand and gently caressed her cheek. “I am sorry to have alarmed you, but I was somewhat shocked when I received Uncle Gardiner's express.” Darcy was never sure how to manage the communication of bad news to Elizabeth, particularly when he found himself also affected by the news.

“What did my Uncle say, have you responded? What is wrong? What is there to be done?” Elizabeth's words came tumbling out with barely a breath in between.

“Elizabeth, please try and steady yourself, and I will explain. Uncle Gardiner has sent an express to say that Lady Lyell is poorly, and the doctors are not confident in her ability to recover. Aunt Gardiner is staying with her, but Adelaide has requested that if it is possible that we travel to London to visit with her."

“Can we go? How quickly can we arrange for our family to go?” Elizabeth's mind was racing, but she was having difficulty in rationalizing her thoughts.

“We can leave tomorrow, but…” Darcy hesitated “I think it best that just you and I travel to London given the circumstances."

“Without the children? Fitzwilliam, I have not left them for more than a night. I couldn't possibly leave them for what could be days. What if something were to happen to them? Can they not travel on after us?” Always in the back of her mind was the loss of Cassandra and the knowledge that a child could be taken from them at any time. She knew in time she would have to learn to be apart from her children, particularly when the boys went off to school, but that was still a few years away and she was not ready just yet.

Darcy saw her eyes beginning to well with tears, and gently placed his arms around her. He steadfastly held her gaze and quietly explained. “Elizabeth, Adelaide is very ill, she wishes us to visit and sit with her. It could be that we need to be with her day and night. It would be very difficult to care for our children during that time, and it would be better that they stay either here or nearby. We can ask Jane and Charles if the children could stay with them while we need to be away. They will be far better amused than being in our London house.” He pulled her towards him and nestled her head against his chest. He knew that was one place that Elizabeth felt safe. He gently kissed her head to reassure her.

Elizabeth was torn between her desire to be with Adelaide and her need to be a mother to her children. The comforting embrace from her husband began to settle her disquiet, and she tried to mull over what he had related. The children would be too boisterous if Adelaide's was so ill. She knew that her husband was taking a sensible and practical approach to the situation despite his emotions, however she still needed time to collect her thoughts.

He spoke slowly and gently to her “I know this has come as a shock to you, but we will need to move quickly. I have already asked Craven to speak to the stables, and he is arranging for one of the men to ride with a message to Charles”.

At that moment, there was a knock on the door. “Come” said Darcy. He withdrew slightly from Elizabeth but still maintained his arms around her.

The Darcy's butler Craven entered. “Sir, I have arranged a rider to go to Hintlesham, is your message ready?”

“I will complete it directly. Elizabeth…..?” Darcy continued to comfort her while he waited for her to respond.

She sat back and said dejectedly “Fitzwilliam, do what you feel is best as I am in no mind to think clearly at present”.

Darcy rose and moved to his writing desk, and quickly penned a message to the Bingleys, outlining the circumstances, and his request that the children be accommodated at Hintlesham as quickly as possible.

“Craven, can you instruct the rider to wait for the response as I need to know if the Bingleys can assist us, otherwise I will have to consider alternate arrangements”.

“Very good Sir. Would you wish to see Mrs. Reynolds?”

“Yes please. Dispatch the messenger, and then if you would be good enough to bring Mrs. Reynolds back with you. We should commence making arrangements on the basis that the Bingleys will be able to assist as if they are unable I know others will assist given the circumstances. Also could you arrange for some tea to be brought to Mrs. Darcy?” Darcy felt that a cup of tea may help settle his wife before they commenced making the necessary arrangements.

While her husband relayed these instructions, Elizabeth considered what she had been told. She knew from experience that the brief sketch outlined by her husband had not provided the whole truth of the situation, as he was most likely trying to soften the blow for her. She also knew how close he too was to Adelaide. But she needed to know the whole of it to place it in perspective. I need to know what Fitzwilliam knows.

Craven left the room to carry out his instructions, and Darcy returned to seat himself beside Elizabeth.

Darcy placed his hands on Elizabeth's and waited until she lifted her eyes. She sought solace and comfort, but also saw there was pain in the depths of the eyes she knew so well. Elizabeth knew how fond Fitzwilliam was of Adelaide, and that this news was affecting him as much as it was her.

Elizabeth finally said to her husband “What did our Uncles letter say?”

Darcy knew that Elizabeth could aways tell when he was guarding her from the truth, almost as if she could read his thoughts so he wanted to frame his response carefully in his mind, before relating what he had read, and before allowing Elizabeth to read the actual letter itself.

He began “After we last saw Adelaide in London for her 75th birthday in February, she apparently slipped over one day when returning from church. She was in the street a good while before someone happened upon her and conveyed her home. She ignored the advice of her physicians, declined to stay indoors, and continued as if nothing had happened. You know how headstrong she is. Rather like you my dear wife - that is likely to be one of the reasons why we have all always got along so well. Smythe contacted the Gardiners one day when she did not respond for her morning tea and she was then found her slumped in her rooms. They got her to bed, and she was found to have not totally recovered from the effects of the fall and to have caught a serious chill.”

“She did recover slightly, but the effects of the fall and given her age the episode appears to have weakened her greatly. Her strength has been sapped, and as a result she is slowly slipping from us. It pains me to say it but Adelaide seems to have realized that she may not be long with us, and has requested that we visit with her before we may not have another opportunity. The illness and her age may have sapped her physical strength, but our Uncle advises her mind and wit are as sharp as ever.”

Elizabeth was trying to take this all in, but was composed enough to notice that Darcy was avoiding looking directly into her eyes while he was struggling with his own feelings on the matter and how he saw the news was affecting her. “May I read Uncle's letter?” she said softly.

“Do you feel up to it?” Darcy responded noticing her pallor. He removed his hand and placed a protective arm about her shoulders.

“I would rather know the whole of the situation so I can prepare myself for what we are about to face.”

Darcy took the letter from his inner pocket and passed it to his wife. He then sat back and observed her as she read.

April 4, 1820.

My dear Nephew,

I apologize if sending this note by express alarms Lizzie and yourself, however I have urgent need for you both here in London.

It appears Adelaide will not be with us much longer. She has been ill for some weeks after falling on her return from church in early March. She was alone in the street until a Mr. Haven-Brown of ____ Street happened upon her and took her by carriage back to her house in Mayfair. You know Adelaide's headstrong nature well enough that she is not keen to take on any advice and chose to continue with her normal commitments without any regard to her health or well being. It appears that she took a chill early on but either hid or covered up the symptoms. On one visit your Aunt prevailed upon her to call in her physician, but as is her want Adelaide in the early stages ignored her physcians advice, continued as if nothing had happened and has deteriorated as a result.

Smythe called us to the house after she had collapsed about one week ago. She did not request her morning tea, and being alarmed Smythe and her maid eventually entered her room and found her slumped on the floor. He got word to us immediately and we have been with her ever since. Smythe informed us that she had been ill for a couple of weeks but refused to have anyone advised of her condition. We missed our regular visits for a couple of weeks as we were visiting sister Philips in Hertfordshire. Given that she had collapsed he felt compelled to act and called us without her knowledge. He was concerned about going against his mistresses instructions, but his excellent judgement prevailed, and we were soon at her side. She protested that it was all unnecessary and we were causing undue fuss by staying with her, but finally relented when she realized she was growing weaker rather than stronger. After we became aware of her circumstance she would not let us advise anyone of her condition until now.

Madeleine has sat with her constantly day and night, only to be relieved by our youngest Emily when she was too fatigued to continue her vigil. It was hoped that bed rest and restoratives would see Adelaide well again, however it appears that it is not to be. The physicians now hold no hope for her recovery, given her age and condition, and she continues to weaken visibly as the days pass.

While she is weakening in body her mind and wit remain active. Adelaide is lucid, issuing orders and extolling the virtues of her dearest ones, dwelling specifically on your good selves which has been most amusing, but wearing particularly for your Aunt both physically and emotionally.

Adelaide has asked that you both come to see her. She seems now aware that it is likely to be the last time, and I beg you both to make haste for Adelaide's sake and your Aunt's relief.

It would probably be best that the children do not accompany you on this journey. It is better that they recall their “Lala” as they remember her last in February, and not in her present frail and sickly state. Your time here is likely to be spent devoted to Adelaide, and the children may not understand the significance of this obligation.

I apologise if I appear presumptive but as I am desirous that you arrive quickly, I have taken the liberty of writing to the Bingley's by express to see if they could care for your brood as the journey here, or even to your house at this time would be too much for Jane in her present state. I am writing also to Richard and Georgiana to visit urgently as Adelaide has also asked to see them.

Do we ask too much for you to travel tomorrow? I pray you do not delay - your presence will give Adelaide much needed comfort and some selfish support to Madeleine and myself. Time is of the essence as I sense she will not be with us long.

Send word by return and I will alert Dillon to prepare for your imminent arrival.

Your loving Uncle

Edward Gardiner.

Adelaide dying - Elizabeth could scare believe it! Somehow when Darcy mentioned it she thought she may have misheard what he said, but having read the words her uncle had written she had to accept the truth within.

Darcy saw that his wife was much affected by what she had just read, but that she now had a greater understanding for his urgent intervention. She now could rationalize some thoughts on the basis that Adelaide was of a good age not reached by many and that they had been blessed to have known her for so long. Seeing that Elizabeth was becoming slightly more composed and resolute to the circumstances Darcy felt it safe to utter “I know what you have read must cause you pain. She has been such a great comfort and confidante to us both and we should do everything in our power to comply with her request. Do you understand now why I responded so hastily?”

Elizabeth while still shaken was resolute in her response “Yes, and I know that you were right to do so. We owe it to our friendship and relationship to go - who could ignore such a request? The thought of assisting our Aunt and Uncle Gardiner adds to the reason to go, despite the pain of separation with our young family. How long do you feel we may need to be away?” She hesitatingly raised her eyes to meet her husbands - fearful of how he would respond.

Darcy noticed that while she remained composed the tears were not far away he gently responded. “Elizabeth, you are aware from our previous experiences that these situations cannot be measured by time in advance - they must run their own course under God's guidance - however it is likely to be a few days at least.”

Darcy knew full well that they were likely to be away longer - perhaps a week, ten days or even longer, but given Elizabeth's current frame of mind, and the circumstance she was still trying to come to grips with it was presently better not to articulate the possible length of their journey. He was not wanting Elizabeth to dwell on the possible length of the journey - but for her to only focus on the reason for their going.

There was another knock on the library door. “Is that you Craven?” said Darcy.

“Yes Sir, and I have Mrs. Reynolds with me” responded Craven.

“Please come”. A maid followed with a tray of tea. This was set on an adjoining table and the maid quickly retreated.

Darcy stood up and moved towards them. “There is much that needs to be done. Mrs. Darcy and I need to travel to London urgently to stay with Lady Lyell who is extremely unwell. We are hopeful that the children will be able to remain with the Bingleys' while we need to be away. We anticipate traveling to Hintlesham first thing tomorrow with the children, and for Mrs. Darcy and myself to immediately travel onto the Mayfair house from there -can you commence making the appropriate arrangements to facilitate this?”

Both replied “Of course, Sir, Madam”, and they turned to go. Darcy and Elizabeth both knew that Craven and Mrs. Reynolds knew instinctively what needed to be arranged. Mrs. Reynolds smiled at them both. She understood how much Lady Lyell meant to them, and could read the lines in between her Masters words. This situation was very grave.

Darcy turned back to Elizabeth. “I wish that you would stay here until you drink some tea - then we can make our own preparations.”

“I shall have to let Kitty know that we shall be unable to keep our engagement on Saturday” said Elizabeth.

“There are a few other matters that I will also need to attend to before we need to leave” said Darcy.

Darcy poured some tea, and did not move until Elizabeth drank some. He found they were both always better being occupied when faced with difficult situations rather than having time to dwell on what lay ahead. Darcy was relieved somewhat when he gradually saw a little colour return to his wife's face.

“Well my dear, we should prepare for the journey even though it will be some hours until we receive the Bingley's response. I suggest that we not tell the children until the arrangements are confirmed.”

Elizabeth responded “Yes, we would do well to wait on that score, but we can prepare ourselves in the meantime. The children will be excited enough when they know about their journey, but we should try and keep from them the finer detail of the melancholy reason for the visit”.

Chapter Two

Charles Bingley had also received an express from the Gardiner's in London early that same day outlining Lady Lyell's situation and requesting his and Jane's assistance in caring for the Darcy children while Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam went to London.

Edward Gardiner had written his nephew

"...it may need to be for a week or slightly longer. Lady Lyell's present state indicates she will not last long. While I know this is an imposition on Jane and yourself it seems important that some of our family can visit with Adelaide before she is no longer with us. I am also concerned about the health of your Aunt who has rarely left Adelaide's bedside this past week. The trip and caring requirements would be too much for our dearest Jane in her current condition, but Lizzie may be able to afford her some assistance….”

Charles Bingley considered the correspondence and knew that both he and Jane would be happy to assist as they could. Despite Jane being in her fifth month they had a nanny, maid, and tutor, and Bingley knew that Darcy would likely send some servants with their children. He sought out his wife and enquired of his butler “Mitchell is Mrs. Bingley about?”

“She is presently watching the children playing on the rear lawn Sir”.

Charles Bingley headed outside and saw Jane in the location described by the butler. She was seated on a garden chair at the edge of the lawn. “My dear Jane…”

She turned and saw her husband walking towards her clutching some correspondence. She gave him a smile, but saw that he was serious in his demeanor.

“Jane, the Darcy's have been urgently called to London- Lady Lyell is very ill. Uncle Gardiner has written seeking our assistance in caring for our nephews and nieces whilst Lizzie and Darcy need to be in town. Are you up to accommodating this request?”

“Yes of course, they will no doubt send some assistants with the children so it should not prove to taxing to us. Is she very ill?” Jane likely Lady Lyell very much - she had always been very thoughtful and generous to their family, and they had enjoyed their visits with her in London and at Pemberley.

Charles did not want to alarm his wife given her current delicate state. Therefore he spoke gently when he added “it appears that she may not recover, that is why Lizzie and Darcy have been sent for”.

“Oh, poor Lizzie. I am very sorry to hear it. Adelaide is a particular favourite and has been a great friend and comfort to both Aunt Gardiner, Georgiana and Lizzie.”

“She has always been very generous to our family as well.” said Charles. He then added for the benefit of his wife's information “Aunt Gardiner has been with her day and night for the past week, and our Uncle hopes that Lizzie can assist in that way too. If our own situation was different we may have travelled to London to assist further, however it would be too much for you at present, and I, nor would any of our family have you placed in any danger.”

“I have no wish to cause you or anyone else concern on my behalf, my dear Charles. At least we can assist in some way. Our nephews and nieces will be fine with us - they are good company for our own children - just as cousins should be”.

“It is settled then, I shall write to my brother Darcy immediately”

Charles Bingley turned to go back and write his note, but his eyes detected Mitchell hurrying towards him with what appeared to be another letter.

“Sir, this has just arrived from Pemberley.”

Charles could anticipate what was written within, but spoke with Mitchell first “Thank you, Mitchell, does the rider wait?”

“Yes Sir, he said his instructions were to wait for a response before he returned to Mr. Darcy.”

“Can you see that the rider receives some refreshment, and arrange a fresh horse for him while I prepare a response for my brother?”

“Very good sir - I will see to it immediately”. Mitchell turned and headed back towards the house.

Jane came close to her husband, and he read to her the letter he had just received.

My dear Brother,

By now you should have received word from our Uncle that Lady Lyell is ill and not expected to recover. Elizabeth and I have been requested to go to London urgently.

Can Jane and your good self mind our family while we go? It appears that it would be better that the children do not travel with us - I know it is a great deal to ask but Adelaide has meant so much to our families it seems the least we can do in this circumstance. We would send Nanny Moore, and some maids to assist.

If you respond in the affirmative we shall be with you before luncheon tomorrow, and then travel onto London from Hintlesham. We are likely to be there at least one week, although Elizabeth is not comprehended the likely length of our absence as yet. She is not desirous of leaving our children, but is aware of the urgency and her inability to care for both the children and Adelaide, and has therefore agreed to them remaining behind.

If you feel it is too much for yourself and Jane, let me know at once, and I will make alternative arrangements. We wish to cause you and your family no inconvenience or concern.

Your brother

Fitzwilliam Darcy.

“Jane, walk with me back to the house so that we can prepare our response to Darcy and Lizzie”. Charles gave Jane his arm, and together they walked back towards their house. Charles wrote a response indicating they would be delighted to assist, the arrangements Darcy had proposed could be easily accommodated, and that they would expect them late the following morning.

The rider was waiting on the gravel in front. He had been provided some sustenance and a fresh mount with which to ride back to Pemberley. Once handed the letter by Charles Bingley he placed it within his jacket and rode away.

Jane and Charles then went to alert their household to make preparations for the arrival of their nieces and nephews.

In her dressing room Elizabeth was discussing her needs with her maid Frances. “Frances there are a few things in my London wardrobe that may do, however I will need some more day wear that makes it comfortable when sitting - I am likely to be sitting good many hours”.

Frances had been advised of the trip and its purpose by Mrs. Reynolds, and had begun preparing her mistresses items before Elizabeth had returned to her rooms. Darcy's man servant was making similar preparations for the master as well. Preparations went well into the afternoon.

Frances enquired “Will you be needing this Ma'am?” queried Frances as she drew out a fine cashmere shawl.

“Yes please, but those dresses can stay - I left some similar to those in London when we were last there” Elizabeth then turned towards the door when she heard he husbands familiar footsteps in the hall.

Darcy entered through the doorway - the door having been left ajar. “Elizabeth, I have just received the response from Charles. All is in order, and they are expecting us to arrive with the children before noon. I have just dispatched another rider to our Uncle to advise that he can expect us in London early the day after tomorrow”.

“I am glad that is all settled, but this is all so sudden. I suppose now that we should go and tell the children why there is so much activity in the household at present.”

Elizabeth accompanied her husband to the nursery where the children were playing. They waited at the door entranced watching the moves of their young family.

“Children, your Papa and I have some good news to share with you” said Elizabeth with a forced brightness easily detected by her husband. Hannah the children's nursery assistant and Nanny Moore backed towards a door in order to leave the room -Darcy quickly made a move to follow them and ensure that they had been fully briefed by Mrs. Reynolds.

“Mama what is the good news?” asked William.

“Well my dears, how would you like to visit Uncle Charles, Aunt Jane and your cousins for a few days?” Elizabeth was bright and positive in her communication, belying her mixed emotions sitting just below the surface.

Emma and William squealed with delight, indicating their approval to the plan. The younger ones smiled imitating their older siblings.

William sought more information “Does this mean that I can play with cousin Edward and miss out on my lessons?”

Darcy had returned to the room, and came up behind his wife. “Yes William, you may have time away from your studies. You have worked very hard of late, and have earned a few days free of lessons.”

Williams was clearly delighted - no lessons and time to play with cousin Edward. This was good news.

Emma came up and took her mothers hand. “Will you stay with Aunt Jane too? Emma was very much aware of how close her mother and Aunt Jane were, and how they always enjoyed their times together.

Elizabeth knelt down to meet her daughters gaze. “Papa and I will take you there, but then we need to travel onto London. Lala is very ill and Papa and I must go to London to look after her.”

The children had christened Adelaide `Lala'- the children had difficulty with pronouncing Lady Adelaide. It was young William's attempts at pronouncing Lady Adelaide that had led to the name. It had worked out well - Lady Lyell was too formal for the close relationship she shared with the Darcy's, and Adelaide too informal for ones so young. Darcy and Elizabeth has tried to teach their children to pronounce it correctly and Adelaide begged them to desist, as she went on to relate that Lala was the name she was called within her family when she was small. She was delighted the name was back in use and how it came about - it was her own special name and did not compromise any other family relationships. The children of the Bingleys and the Fitzwilliams had adopted it as well.

“Emma can help Mama look after Lala” Emma responded whilst looking intently at her mother.

“Emma, I know you are very capable of helping me look after Lala, but on this occasion I have a very special task for you to perform. Nanny Moore and Aunt Jane will need your help in looking after the young ones seeing that I cannot be there. Do you think you can manage that?”

“Do you mean brushing hair and straighten their clothes? Jane Anne's hair is messy” said Emma in a serious tone.

Elizabeth smiled. Four year old Emma was always neat as a pin - very much like Jane, where as her namesake was more like Elizabeth with little regard for the neatness of her appearance - but Elizabeth was not too concerned at present given Jane Anne was only 2. “The very things my dear. I am sure Nanny Moore and Aunt Jane will be very glad to have your help.” Elizabeth cast a glance towards Nanny Moore for support.

Nanny Moore was a sharp but kindly lady, who immediately picked up on her mistresses line of thought “Emma, I will certainly be needing your assistance.” Emma smiled as she felt very important. Nanny Moore continued “If we are all to leave on the morrow, we need to make our arrangements quickly. Now how shall we organise our things?”

The older children clamored around Nanny Moore and Hannah with suggestions for what would be needed to go with them.

Darcy took his wife's arm and said softly “Elizabeth, I think we should leave our children to organise their things while we finalise our own”.

“We shall see you at supper shortly my dears” she said quite wistfully.

“Yes Mama” the elder ones replied while Darcy steered his wife back towards their chambers.

The moods of the Darcy family around the dinner table that evening were quite mixed.

William and Emma were bubbly and excited about spending a few days with their cousins, knowing full well that Uncle Charles was a little less strict than their Father when it came to the behaviour expected in the house, so that meant there was an opportunity for a little more fun or at least not getting caught! Father mostly frowned upon things like running down the large staircase at Pemberley, where as Uncle Charles didn't seem to mind too much. The younger ones were not too aware of what was going on, but the positive displays by the elder two were infectious - so they reacted in the same way.

What the children hadn't registered is that their father was allowing a little less decorum at the dinner table that evening than normal. Polite conversation was permitted, noise and disruption to their meal was not.

Darcy was a little pre-occupied - he was concerned about Elizabeth and her thoughts about leaving the children, and how she would cope with the situation in London. He noticed that she hardly touched her food, idly pushing pieces around her plate. Thoughts of Adelaide also crossed his mind - he could see her sitting at the table with the family - usually spurring the conversation along particularly with William and Emma. I will certainly miss her influence on this family.

Elizabeth was distracted with thoughts of the children and their needs while they were to stay with the Bingleys, and their own preparations for the stay in London. I must ensure that they have their favorite toys to take with them. Has Nanny Moore ensured that they have sufficient coats for the cool spring evenings? This is silly -why am I thinking like this? - of course she would do that. She did notice that her husband was quieter than normal, and was allowing the children to chatter at the dinner table in a manner not usually permitted. He was obviously very much distracted by the days' events.

Dinner eventually finished, and Hannah came to the family dining room to lead the children back to the nursery.

“Papa and I will be with you shortly to kiss you all goodnight” Elizabeth called after them as they trooped out of room the family used for the daily meals.

“Fitzwilliam, I am unused to being away from them for greater than a day - how will I cope?” Elizabeth was quite forlorn as she looked towards her husband.

“Elizabeth, I know you are not used to traveling without our family, however I can say from experience that while there is always pain in separations, the joy in reunions increases in the time spent away. It may not seem like it now, but we will manage quite well, and have a task to keep us occupied. I know you are despondent about leaving the children, but I can assure you that they will be quite well, and we know that they will be well loved and taken care of. Most important of all, is that we will have each other.” He smiled lovingly at her, and reached out to clasp her hand.

She squeezed his hand in return, and held onto to it. He was right, as long as they had each other for support all would be well.

Chapter Three

While Elizabeth had guarded her emotions in the rush to get ready for the journey, the extent of the preparations had left little time to dwell on the fact she would be leaving her children for more than one night for the very first time. However while she was preparing to retire in the evening that thought, plus the realization that she would be losing Adelaide caused her tears to fall steadily while she was readying herself for bed.

Darcy had swept her away for a romantic evening away on the occasion of the 5th wedding anniversary, and she had spent odd nights at the Bingleys to support Jane when their children came. Apart from those times their children had always travelled with them.

It is probably better to have the tears flow now, rather than in the morning or worse still in front of Adelaide- I do so not want to upset the children - I will need to put on a brave face. I had better practice it as I have done throughout the day as I will surely need to maintain it when sitting with Adelaide. Despite Elizabeth's thoughtful resolution the tears still persisted.

Darcy tentatively walked to her dressing chamber and saw her with tears rolling down her cheeks. Should I leave her be, or seek to console her? The sight so distressed him, that he determined could not leave her - she needed to be reminded that he understood her need to cry.

He came up behind her and softly whispered - “Elizabeth, it's alright my love” and placed his arms around to securely embrace her. She leaned back onto his chest, and sighed heavily, tears still cascading down her pale cheeks.

“The tears won't stop. I am at a loss what to do.” Her voice was shaky and full of despair.

“Come sit with me, and let me comfort you” He led her slowly out to the chairs in front of the fire. A fire was keeping the chill out of the spring evening air. He sat, and gently drew her to him and placed her on his knee. He took a cloth from his pocket and gently mopped up her tears. She nestled into his body, and he encircled her with his arms. His strength calmed her, his loving caress warmed her. They sat quietly for a while, but he instinctively knew she was not totally settled.

“I am sorry I am being so selfish. I am only thinking of my own discomfort and not the suffering of others.”

“Elizabeth, I am the last person who would ever consider you selfish” said her husband in mock distain.

She gave him a weak smile. Despite the tears in her eyes he could read the depths of her feelings.

“It is better that you shed your tears now. Adelaide is asking us to visit with her and the last thing she will want to see is your lovely face with tears stains apparent. She will be anticipating some lively and stimulating conversation and nothing else.” He thought perhaps a slightly different approach was required in order to try and lighten her mood, now that she was becoming calmer and the tears were beginning to dry.

“Do you remember our first meeting with Adelaide? I seem to recall I was less than pleased about the arrangements you made on our mutual behalf”. He saw a small smile play on her lips - his tactics were beginning to have the desired effect. He needed to seize the opportunity. He asked in a playful manner “May I enquire as to the reason for that smile?”

“If I am not mistaken you were rather displeased, but you did seem to change your mind afterwards”. He was relieved to see her grin slightly, and then she sat up a little in order to better observe his face. She always enjoyed watching his expressions when she teased him.

“It was only that I had a desire as a newly married man to keep you totally for myself for as long as was possible. I had felt at the time I had already made a concession on that front by agreeing to share you that evening with our Uncles and Aunts - I was extremely reluctant to forego any further opportunities for privacy that day. Although I do concede, it was a most fortuitous meeting, one I have long since had many reasons to be very grateful for”

“Teasing man!” she said saucily, she was beginning to enjoy herself in their shared recollection.

They had enjoyed being in a married state only a couple of days, relishing in their newly acquired intimacy and the companionship that came with it, when they roused themselves earlier than had been their practice in order to attend church. Knowing that they were residing in town, their absence from a regular church service would have surely been remarked upon, and Darcy was keen to ensure that there was no occasion for any disparaging comments to be directed towards his wife and their new relationship until society at large could appreciate his wife's attributes as much as he did.

As it was a clear but pleasant morning despite the winter chill, and the church being not too far from their house, Darcy proposed that they walk to church for the benefit of the exercise. His ulterior motives were to see how the exercise increased the flush of pink on his wife's cheeks, and to have the opportunity to freely utter sentiments to his wife without the concern of the servants overhearing his lovers babble. It seemed the servants were still not used to all the changes evident in their master's behaviour since he had become a married man.

They walked leisurely towards the church with Elizabeth's hand in his arm, his hand covering hers and gently stroking her fingers and ruing that the cold and etiquette prevented him from caressing the skin instead. Such improper thoughts whilst walking to church he thought. The passed the time with safe but idle chatter about the pleasantness of the day, how enjoyable the walk was in such company, and their dinner engagement for that evening.

Suddenly, what seemed like a gust of wind unsettled them and forced Darcy to remove his free hand from Elizabeth's and place it on his hat instead. Looking up it appeared to them both that the gust of wind had been generated by a lady moving past them at great speed. Her winter coat billowed in her wake. The lovers chuckled and wondered what the reason was for such haste! She appeared like a ship in full sail in a strong wind. Darcy relished the fact they found the same thing so amusing. The lady turned the corner and disappeared from their sight. They settled themselves and continued at their more leisurely pace towards the church.

Turning the corner that lead to the church, the lady was nowhere to be seen. They walked along the street and eventually climbed the stairs into St James', Piccadilly* and Darcy directed her towards their family pew. Elizabeth was enchanted by the church's interior. She expected it to be colder and not as homely as the parish church in Meryton, but was pleasantly surprised to find it inspired awe whilst remaining welcoming. Darcy explained to her that is had been designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and had been built as a parish church in 1684 at a time when it was on the outskirts of London. That would explain how it does not feel cold and impersonal like some large cathedrals thought Elizabeth.

They had arrived a few minutes before the service was due to start, and glancing forward, they saw the object of their earlier encounter. She was located in a forward pew with 2 other ladies. From the rear they could not discern much about them except that they were all extremely well dressed, erect in stature and of medium height.

The organ sounded, and they rose while the Reverend began the service.

What they heard was a muffled rumble. The words uttered by the good Reverend were inaudible. The poor man obviously had a cold. Despite the congregations best attempts they had to follow their knowledge of the liturgy rather than the direction of the minister in order to respond at the appropriate points in the service. It made participation a challenge and afforded most of the parishoners time to contemplate on other things rather than the message that was trying to be relayed. Darcy's mind reflected on his last visit to this church with his cousin the Colonel when he had prayed that he would one day have the opportunity to have Elizabeth seated near to him as she was now. Elizabeth gave her own heartfelt thanks that she had been blessed with a such loving husband - a true partner for life.

At the correct moment in the service they moved towards the front of the church to partake of communion. As they returned to their pew Elizabeth couldn't help herself and looked towards where the ladies were seated as they had returned minutes earlier. She diverted her eyes when she noticed the middle lady's eyes were focused upon her. But she had time enough to notice that they appeared kind, and even twinkled. She seems rather friendly in her eyes at least.

When they had returned to their pew, and whilst the remainder of the congregation was still participating in the communion, Darcy leaned over to Elizabeth and whispered quietly, “I can enlighten you as to the name of the lady who passed us earlier - her name is Lady Adelaide Lyell, and she is our next door neighbour. The lady to her left is Lady Neill, and the other is the Right Honorable Mrs Emmerton-Walsh.”

While this exchange was taking place a similar quiet discussion was being conducted in the forward pew. Lady Neill enquired of Lady Lyell - “Who is the lady on Mr. Darcy's arm? They seem to make a handsome pair”.

Lady Lyell responded “It appears that the lady is Darcy's new bride. I had read the announcement in Fridays Times. The announcement stated that she was from Hertfordshire, and that her father is a gentleman from an estate called Longbourn. The lady is known, or should I say was known as Miss Elizabeth Bennet.” Lady Lyell thought to herself I am pleased to see she does not appear to be one of those who use adornments to enhance their appearance - she appears quite sensible - but did I detect a gleam in the ladies eye? Fitzwilliam seems quite proud of her at least, it was high time he settled down.

Just then, the rector mad e this final benediction and the organ sounded for the final hymn. It was one of Elizabeth's favourites “Ye Servants of God*”. Darcy smiled proudly at his wife when he heard her soprano effortlessly embellishing the high notes.

The recessional played and Elizabeth took her husbands arm to leave the church. Elizabeth smiled to herself as she recalled that it was the second time that week she had left a church on her husbands arm.

Reverend Forsythe was waiting at the door of the church to converse with members of the congregation as they dispersed. “Mr. Darcy, I had heard of your recent nuptials and wish to offer my congratulations. I understand your wedding took place in Hertfordshire”.

He had a very nasal tone, but they could at least now make out what he was saying being so close. He appears a kindly man, and thankfully not at all in the manner of Mr. Collins thought Elizabeth.

“Reverend Forsythe, may I introduce my wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy. We were married earlier this week in Hertfordshire -the wedding took place in my wife's family church” Darcy was still getting used to describing Elizabeth as his wife, and his pride making this type of introduction was easily witnessed by all who were close to them.

“Madam, may I welcome you to our congregation.”

“Thankyou sir, we look forward to attending when we are in London. May I enquire after your health?”

“Mrs. Darcy, I must confess I have a slight cold, it should soon pass God willing.”

“We trust that you should be much better soon”.

“Thankyou for your kind thoughts. Will you be in London long?” This last question was directed towards Mr. Darcy.

“Not on this occasion at least, however we anticipate returning sometime in January. We will be leaving for Derbyshire tomorrow”.

“I wish you both a safe journey and God Bless you”.

Darcy and Elizabeth moved outside of the church, and the good Reverend began talking to other parishioners.

“Poor man, it should be home in bed, but obviously dedicated to his parish. Pity his words were lost on the congregation due to his chill.” She hesitated before adding playfully “I am just greatly relieved to find he is obviously not a Mr. Collins”.

Darcy smiled and was about to respond to his wife's quip, but before he had the opportunity they were confronted by Lady Lyell. Darcy's face immediately changed back to its formal self and his more publicly known persona.

“Fitzwilliam Darcy, it has been a long time. I have read of your marriage, this must be your wife, may we be introduced?” Lady Lyell was if anything very direct in her approach, but her tone was not unkind.

“Lady Lyell, may I have the honour of introducing my wife Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy”. Elizabeth curtseyed and Lady Lyell bowed her head in acknowledgement. She too observed the proud reflection on his face as he made the introduction.

“Mrs. Darcy I am pleased to make your acquaintance, and have a great desire to know you better. Has your husband explained that we are neighbours? I would like to see you both to tea this afternoon - would 3 o'clock be suitable?

Elizabeth for once was caught short for words. “I, we…well….um yes, that would seem to be convenient” she responded without catching her husband's eye.

“Very good then I look forward to seeing you both at the appointed time. Good morning” and Lady Lyell was off just as quickly as she had arrived.

Elizabeth was somewhat startled by the unexpected encounter and the request that it produced. It was obvious however that her husband was not pleased with her acceptance of the invitation. She easily detected that much by his expression. He held his composure, took her arm and she was very aware that he was directing her to commence their walk back towards their house at a far brisker pace than when they set out.

When they were safely out of earshot of the church Darcy exclaimed - “Elizabeth, why on earth did you accept that invitation? I thought we had planned to spend the rest of the day alone before our commitment this evening.”

“Fitzwilliam, how in earth could I refuse? She caught me totally unawares.” Elizabeth was totally flustered - aware that she had displeased her husband, but unsure of how else she could have responded to such a forthright and immediate request in such a public place.

“You could have claimed we had a previous engagement.” He responded - but in a slightly calmer tone. He began to comprehend that it was his frustration in having his plans for the day changed that had made him somewhat abrupt in his comments rather than the fact that Elizabeth had accepted the invitation. He even realized that perhaps his response was unwarranted in its tone.

“Fitzwilliam, really. I couldn't lie - particularly on the steps of a church. Besides as she resides next to our house she would be fully aware of our comings and goings.” Elizabeth was distracted - I am horrified to think I have already upset my husband-we have only been married for 3 days!

He saw that he had upset her and that he was the reason for her distress. Darcy also had to concede the reasonableness of her argument, and was annoyed at himself at his reaction. It resulted in a very apologetic response. He stopped in the street and turned towards her “I am so sorry Elizabeth. I did not mean to talk to you in that manner. I can see now that Lady Lyell had placed you in a position where it was impossible to refuse”. He stopped walking and turned to her. “Can you forgive me?” His eyes as well as his words were pleading with her.

“Of course, I was somewhat startled by both her approach and her request” and your reaction she thought - I did not wish to make you cross. She cursed her inexperience in such situations. Confronting Lady Catherine was no problem, but she was unsure of how to conduct herself with complete strangers when she had her new family name and the respectability of her husband to uphold. She did however make a mental note to that she would need to prepare herself for any such confrontation in the future, and where possible to politely pass any decision of that nature to her husband.

“What must you think of me?” Darcy said to his wife in a tone that displayed his distress. He was now quite troubled with his outspokenness. Elizabeth saw it was her duty to restore the situation to the previous status that had existed on their way to church.

“That you are still the man of my dreams, and the love of my life.” Knowing that it was possible a response tainted with jealously given his desire to spend his time solely with her she gazed lovingly back up at him.

Realising that he was now (and very fortunately he thought) forgiven, and that they had thankfully survived this first minor difference of opinion in their marriage he patted her hand. He then bent towards her head and whispered. “I still don't know how I deserve to have your love.” His head brushed against her ear and sent a shiver down her spine. The scent of lavender that surrounded her went to his head and calmed him further in some respects and inflamed them in others. He thought whilst I am still not comfortable with the appointment, I will endeavour to bear it as best I can in order to make amends to you my dearest Elizabeth.

Both knew that their first disagreement had been resolved, and both were equally committed to ensuring that they would take greater steps to avoid any repeat of what had just transpired. They resumed their earlier leisurely pace along the streets back to their house. Seeing that peace was restored, Elizabeth's curiosity arose and she found that she had a number of questions to ask about their neighbour.

“Although it appears that she has been unknowingly the subject for our first slight difference of opinion, I can only deduce that you seem to be long acquainted with Lady Lyell. I noticed she addressed you with your Christian name. I am correct in thinking that is not usually the case with those with whom you are not related or intimate with? How exactly is it that you were acquainted with Lady Lyell? Dear husband you seem to have known her better than you indicated.”

Darcy had to commend Elizabeth's powers of intuition and deductions were very quick and thorough.

“I must admit that this is certainly the case. I used to accompany my mother on visits to her ladyship on some occasions when we were in London. She used to visit Lady Lyell for tea and I would accompany her - much in the way we are committed to this afternoon”.

“May I enquire how old were you at the time?” Elizabeth gently asked, knowing that Darcy's mother had passed away when he was still relatively young, and she was still trying to gather a greater understanding of his childhood, family and its relationships without causing him any pain.

“Looking back, I remember visiting her on occasion up until I was about 10 years old, the last time cannot have been more than a year before Georgiana was born. It is interesting that I have never stopped to consider that fact before”.

“How did you occupy your time there - I cannot imagine you sitting and participating in a ladies conversation?”

“I recall I spent a great deal of time in Lady Lyell's library - it seems I was greatly interested in books even then.” Here was another instance where his relationship with Elizabeth caused him reason to examine past events that brought back some pleasant remembrances.

Elizabeth could see that he was now set to introspection. She desired more information, but she was also aware that any discussions surrounding his parents was still quite a tender area and one to be explored with great care. She thought carefully before posing her next question. “Was there any reason for your acquaintance besides the fact you were London neighbours?

Darcy looked thoughtful while he considered her question. “I seem to recall something about my Mother mentioning that Lady Lyell's daughter was a close acquaintance of hers. The specifics escape me - it was sometime ago.”

Elizabeth was not quite sure about how to proceed next. She thought it best to leave him with his thoughts, and see what transpired. Maybe their visit with Lady Lyell will shed more light on the subject.

This chuch was the closest to Mayfair and used by the well to do of the area. http://www.st-james-piccadilly.org/
Hymn: “Ye Servants of God” Text: Charles Wesley, 1707-1788 Music: Attr. to William Croft, 1678-1727

Chapter Four

Darcy and Elizabeth arrived on Lady Lyell's doorstep promptly at 3. Having discussed it over lunch they had agreed whilst some of London's more fashionable people considered it polite to arrive fashionably late, Lady Lyell was of the nature to be precise and timeliness was an indication of judgment and consideration for your host. Their assumption as to Lady Lyell's character and expectations was to their credit. She expected nothing less than punctuality - particularly given that her guests only needed to walk from the next house.

Darcy and Elizabeth were met at her ladyship's door by her butler Smythe. He arranged for their coats and hats to be taken, and announced to them

“Mr and Mrs Darcy, Her Ladyship is expecting you in the lounge. This way if you please.”

Elizabeth noted as they were escorted to the lounge the house was identical in size and layout as their own London home, however it appeared more ornate but somewhat older in taste in this area at least in terms of fixtures and fittings. They were shown into the lounge where Lady Lyell was sitting in a large winged back chair.

“Mr and Mrs Darcy ma'am” said Smythe holding the door back to allow their entry.

“Thankyou Smythe, can you arrange for the tea to be brought in directly?”

“Yes ma'am, I will see to it immediately” and Smythe withdrew.

“Please sit down” Lady Lyell motioned towards a lounge covered with a golden damask, that had fine carvings about the arms and legs.

During this interval, Elizabeth had a few moments to observe Lady Lyell. She was extremely distinguished, and very much in the mould of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, but with a far more pleasing countenance. Her clothing was extremely refined, of the finest silks, and the headpiece and shawl that she wore were of very fine lace. Everything spoke of quality, elegance and taste - but nothing that was excessive or out to impress. Lady Lyell only wore a little jewellery, not overly adorned at all, but it was all fine and stately. This was very much to Elizabeth's own taste. It was difficult to estimate her hosts age due to Elizabeth's limited exposure to persons of a greater age than herself, having had no real acquaintance over 60 years of age, but she determined at least that this lady was likely to be the oldest of her acquaintance.

Darcy and Elizabeth took their places on the lounge. Elizabeth smoothed her dress, and was unsure whether or not to venture a comment that may be considered inappropriate or to wait until they were further addressed. She did not have long to wait however, as Lady Lyell addressed her husband.

“Fitzwilliam, I had the pleasure of welcoming your parents to a similar afternoon tea, shortly after the occasion of their own marriage. I also had the pleasure of attending their wedding. Your wife wears a similar glow displayed by your mother at the time of their happy event”

Elizabeth noted with interest that Lady Lyell had again used his christian name to address him, as she had done earlier in the day. She became aware that he was startled by the statement and was interested in how he would respond. She also knew that any discussions she had tried to commence to learn more about his parents were not always met in a positive manner. I am not the only one to be startled today by a direct approach from Lady Lyell.

Darcy was trying hard not to betray his surprise at the mode of address and the information relayed. As a result he may have responded in a manner that was a little more abrupt than he intended. “They did?” Darcy then drew breath before continuing a little more composedly “I know little about my parents wedding events, as while my parents were alive it was not really a subject that interested me.” He softened a little more before adding. “It may have been of more interest now given current circumstances”.

He gave a slight reassuring smile to Elizabeth, and she realised that he was back more in control of himself. Darcy realised that he would have to pay attention to this conversation, as he was now concerned as to what else Lady Lyell may impart as to his earlier years, and could not recall if there was anything that may be cause for concern.

Lady Lyell continued “It was a delight to host them and most appropriate too, as it was in this house that they first met”.

Darcy was both surprised and pleased. Since his betrothal to Elizabeth he had often wondered more about the beginning of his parent's relationship, and whether they had endured any of the misunderstandings that occurred in his own frustrating courtship. Elizabeth was relieved to notice that Darcy relaxed a little further, on her own part, here was a means to learning more about the in-laws she did not have the opportunity to know.

Their thoughts and conversation were interrupted by the arrival of the tea. It was placed on a table in between Lady Lyell and Elizabeth.

“My dear Mrs Darcy, may I ask you to pour? I am afraid my arm is no longer accustomed to such a large teapot.”

Elizabeth smiled reassuringly. “Of course, I would be delighted to assist”. Elizabeth busied herself in pouring the tea, and her ladyship continued.

“You may not be aware Fitzwilliam, that your grandmother, the previous Countess of Matlock, and I were cousins, as well as good friends. As a consequence, it was only natural that our daughters were in frequent company of one another and became almost inseparable until the time they were married."

Darcy's interest was now aroused in a pleasurable way about his parents. He hesitated before asking “Did this include my aunt Catherine?”

She smiled. “Oh no. Catherine was far too concerned about other people and titles even then. Catherine always preferred to cultivate acquaintances that directly held titles than discover some true friends, regardless of their station or status”.

“Then nothing much has changed - she continues as she began” Darcy responded.

Elizabeth was glad she was not holding a filled tea cup at the time, as she gallantly tried to stifle a chuckle, and tried to turn it into a cough instead. It seemed a contest of comments had started, and on this occasion Elizabeth was enjoying being the observer instead of the participant.

“Am I to understand she has expressed views on your marriage?” Lady Adelaide enquired in a spirit of levity. She knew enough about Catherine de Bourgh to determine how she would view this match.

Darcy noticed Lady Adelaide's eyes twinkling as she asked the question - she has obviously had some interesting exchanges with my aunt. He responded in a tone that acknowledged the sense of humour he detected in her eyes.

“You could say that my aunt would have preferred to choose and determine the suitability of my wife herself” replied Darcy.

“Very diplomatic, Fitzwilliam. Knowing Catherine's temperament and view on life there is much more you have to relate. I ask that you humour your Grandmothers best friend and relate the whole. There is nothing you can say about Catherine that will surprise or offend me, and I demand to be satisfied - or do I have to press your good wife for the details?”

She directed her glance towards Elizabeth who confirmed in her grin Lady Lyell's suspicions that there was much more to tell. Elizabeth had quickly discerned that Lady Lyell was lady to be trusted and allowed herself to be quite frank in her comment. “I think my husband's hesitation is due to the fact that in one of my own exchanges with Lady Catherine I was not necessarily polite”.

Lady Lyell had realised that Elizabeth was of a very similar temperament to herself and replied “Do not worry my dear, if it could possibly be considered as impolite, I have no doubts that Catherine earned the response she received from you. Well Fitzwilliam?” Lady Lyell was not to be distracted once she sensed there was an interesting story to be relayed.

Darcy considered for a moment and understood that Lady Lyell was well acquainted with his aunt's character and opinions, so there was to be no harm in relating the high level details of what had transpired, and that she may in fact find it quite amusing.

“My friend Bingley had recently become engaged to my wife's elder sister, and through this Lady Catherine had been led to believe that Elizabeth and myself would soon follow suit. So Lady Catherine took it upon herself to visit Elizabeth and seek to confirmation that we were not engaged, and have her agree never to enter into such an arrangement with me” said Darcy.

“Sounds very much like something Catherine would do. She must have been very concerned to travel so far to seek such an assurance. But how was Catherine acquainted with…” she turned to Elizabeth “..my dear may I call you Elizabeth?”

“I would be very pleased that you do” Elizabeth sensed that they would become more closely acquainted with Lady Adelaide, and she welcomed the enquiry. After all they were very distantly related through Darcy's grandmother.

“Elizabeth's friend married her cousin who is the pastor to Lady Catherine's parish. They met while Elizabeth was visiting her friend in Kent earlier this year.”

“Very well. So what pray tell was Catherine's reason for requesting that Elizabeth not enter into an arrangement with you?”

“She claimed that my mother and herself had agreed that I should marry my cousin Anne, and by marrying anyone else I would be going against my mothers wishes.”

“What rot!” Whilst your mother may have humoured Catherine, she would never have agreed to such an arrangement as she would have rather seen you as happy as she was herself - Catherine was merely jealous of your mother. This would have been her way of trying to gain control of Pemberley, and the house you now occupy next door. Go on.”

Darcy was perplexed. “Aunt Catherine jealous of my mother?”

“Yes she was, I undertake to relate the details shortly, but I must beg to hear the rest of this tale first” responded Adelaide impatient to hear more.

Lady Adelaide is obviously enjoying herself and the conversation thought Elizabeth, and Darcy is responding in a way I least expected.

“Well Elizabeth failed to give the assurances requested, so my aunt ventured to London to seek instead the assurance from me” said Darcy with a smirk.

“She obviously failed on both counts!” Lady Adelaide was highly amused.

Lady Lyell directed her next question to Elizabeth. “May I enquire as to her tone of address to you Elizabeth? Catherine is usually quite direct”.

Elizabeth blushed at the recollection. “I confess her tone and line of questioning was very direct, but I must admit to being equally direct in my responses.”

“Good for you. Catherine expects all and sundry to bow and scrape to her demands. She deserves to be challenged” said Lady Adelaide in a matter of fact tone.

“I fear I may have overstepped the mark somewhat. Her language towards Fitzwilliam when meeting him after seeing me, and again after announcing our engagement reiterated her extreme dissatisfaction of the tone and manner at what I expressed, and her overall impressions on my suitability as a marriage partner for her nephew” said Elizabeth honestly.

“Do not dwell on it Elizabeth, it does not deserve such attention. Fitzwilliam - what did Catherine say to you?” Lady Adelaide cast Darcy a bemused glance.

Fitzwilliam chuckled. “Merely that I couldn't marry Elizabeth as I had long been promised to Anne. Secondly, that my aunt was furious at the way Elizabeth had responded to her requests and questioning. Most important of all was that Elizabeth had refused to agree that she would never marry me.”

“And the result of that entreaty?”

“After a rather protracted courtship my aunt gave me a glimmer of hope. I had long been in love with Elizabeth” he smiled at her “but believed her to feel otherwise. I gave my word to my aunt that I would go to Hertsfordshire at once and put the rumour to rest. My aunt assumed it was to contradict the rumour, my intention was to see if it could be confirmed, an objective that was obviously achieved”.

Lady Adelaide laughed out loud. “Oh that is delightful! I do wish I had been there to see it”. Darcy is not revealing all - a protracted courtship? This will be most interesting to pursue, however I will leave that enquiry for another occasion.

Darcy added: “I am very surprised that you did not hear the last of those exchanges seeing that it took place next door. The discussion became rather heated and loud”.

“May I enquire how the current Earl and Countess regard your marriage?”

“They are totally delighted. Aunt Catherine had apparently written to them to try and have them change my mind. Their initial impressions were formed through their son Colonel Fitzwilliam's information who had met Elizabeth previously. They chose not to respond to Aunt Catherine until they had met Elizabeth and formed their own opinion in the weeks leading up to our marriage. After meeting Elizabeth they apparently wrote to her and told her that they wholeheartedly supported my choice.”

“Well I am pleased to know that Gerald has retained his good sense. Rebecca would never have been swayed by Catherine's opinions. Are your aunt and uncle in good health?”

“They are quite well, but remove themselves to Bath to take the waters on occasion. We dine with them and Elizabeth's aunt and uncle this evening.”

“Would you please pass on my regards to them. It is a long time since we have met. Do I know of Elizabeth's aunt and uncle?”

“Most likely not. Although my uncle Gardiner is in business in London, and my aunt does participate in a number of charitable committees” said Elizabeth quite proudly.

“They are the most wonderful people - we are forever indebted to them as they were the means of uniting us” added Darcy smiling at his wife.

Lady Adelaide thought they must be sensible and well bred people as like attracts like - they are obviously held in the highest regard by them both.

Darcy's curiosity at a previous comment made by Lady Lyell prompted him to ask of her “You mentioned earlier that Aunt Catherine was jealous of my mother. I am most interested to know how that came about as my parents never mentioned it.”

“Well, I am not surprised that you had not been related with it. It was a sore point with both of your parents. It seems that the notion was rooted in childhood, and events over the years inflamed the jealousy. Catherine, although the first daughter born to your grandparents, was not the first child. Your uncle Gerald was the eldest, and heir. Your grandparents were delighted that a daughter was born to them, however another daughter, your mother, followed. So Catherine's position as the only daughter and baby of the family was usurped by your mother.”

“Afterwards your grandmother was ill for a time when your mother was about 5 years of age. Your mother came to live with my family for an extended period, whereas Catherine was sent to another relative, whilst Gerald stayed at home when he was not at school. I am not fully aware of the environment where Catherine lived at that time, however she was a good deal more sullen and self-opinionated when she returned home”.

“Your mother was a gentle soul who disliked disagreements, and found Catherine's temperament difficult to tolerate. She grew much closer to my own daughter, Clarissa, who was of a similar nature and age to herself. They were far more like sisters than Catherine and your mother ever were. Catherine was no doubt jealous of that relationship, wishing she could share the same intimacy with your mother that Clarissa had”.

“Later she felt your father should have preferred her instead of your mother - she saw herself as the most fitting person to be mistress of Pemberley. She was being foolish to deny the love between your mother and father - theirs was certainly a love match. But then jealous people are rarely wise. Catherine then married for title and rank - she may have initially thought that this was sufficient to enjoy a marital relationship, but quickly realised that hers was married relationship with little affection and esteem between the partners. Then your mother produced a male heir and later a daughter, whereas she was blessed with a single daughter. It appears over the years she has found many reasons to be jealous of your mother.”

This detailed account of the early life of his mother and siblings raised as many questions as it answered, but it did at least account for some of Lady Catherine's behaviour. It caused Darcy to say “No wonder she was so set on my marrying cousin Anne - she must have seen I as a way of righting all of the things she perceived as wrong. I was fortunate enough to observe the true affection between my parents - it was their model, some shrewd advice from my father, and the comparison of marriages of convenience versus love that ensured that I chose marry for love - and for no other reason.” Again he directed a loving glance towards his wife.

Elizabeth had cause to reflect, so Lady Catherine was the middle child. She had often considered that her sister Mary was at a disadvantage being stuck in the middle of four other sisters - neither the eldest or the youngest and quite often ignored by both of her parents. By way of these comments Elizabeth's attitude towards Lady Catherine softened a very little - however it did not compensate for the comments proffered against herself or towards their marriage, but Elizabeth felt she now understood Lady Catherine a little better, and how some of her opinions may have been formed.

The time was passing quickly. Lady Adelaide felt need to comment. “I am rather reluctant to draw this afternoon to a close, as I have very much enjoyed your company, but I must not delay you from your dinner engagement. Will you promise to visit with me again when you are next in London? I commit to providing the detail around your parents courtship - it is a delightful story I think you would enjoy” she thought this way at least I will be assured of them visiting again - I can see that not only Darcy is very curious indeed, but that I have piqued Elizabeth's interest as well.

They responded as one “We would be delighted”.

Darcy added, “Would you mind if I bring my sister Georgiana to meet with you? She would be pleased to meet someone who knew her mother well - she knows so very little about her, and I can only relate my experiences as a small boy.”

“Please do. I would be delighted to meet her also, and be very glad to relate what I know about your mother.”

“Thankyou for a most enjoyable afternoon”. Elizabeth leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. Lady Adelaide was delighted.

“My dear, I have two requests of you, if they should not prove too onerous. Firstly I would ask that you both call me Adelaide - there are so few remaining that know me by my first name, and given our prospect for friendship and a distant but valid family relationship it would please me no end. Secondly; I would be highly delighted if Elizabeth would kindly agree to correspond with me?”

“I think we can respond favourably on both counts. We are extremely honoured.” Elizabeth was most confident in her response - she knew in that there was no need to seek her husband's approval on this occasion at least.

As Elizabeth put on her hat and coat Adelaide whispered to Darcy “your mother and grandmother would heartily approve of your choice of wife, and so do I”.

Darcy smiled at her and said “Thankyou, that means a great deal to me”.

He took his wife's arm and they made their way next door. When they were well outside and almost to their own front door, his wife ventured in a playful manner

“Well?”

“I admit you were right to accept the invitation. She is rather good company, I have learned some more about my family and her comments will provide for some most interesting conversation this evening. There is also the prospect that Georgiana may learn more about her mother, and that is a prospect to be most thankful for.”

By the time Darcy and Elizabeth had finished recalling this initial meeting with Adelaide, Elizabeth was more of herself again. “I seem to remember something else from that day” she ventured.

“…and what would that be?” asked her husband.

“after we came home from dinner with our aunts and uncles that very evening, we sat for a while by the fire, much the same as we are now before we went to bed”.

“…and?”

“I found that you seem to enjoyed it when I kissed your neck, like this” and she gently nuzzled his neck and kissed it lightly.

“I seem to remember the effect that it had, and I must say that it continues to do so” Darcy closed his eyes. “I think we should continue with this remembrance as well…..now let me see, I seem to recall……..” and he swept her up in his arms and moved towards their bed.

Chapter Five

The Darcy family left Pemberley by 8 am. An early start was essential if they were to make the long journey to London in the shortest possible time. Fortunately their path to the Bingleys took them in the direction of London, and the weather of late had been favourable - the roads were dry with few ruts allowing them to make good time.

They had planned to take the children to Hintlesham, and travel directly onto London without staying for lunch. There would be time to take tea while the horses were changed, but Darcy was also conscious that the longer they stayed at the Bingleys, the harder Elizabeth would find it to leave, so he used the need to travel quickly to ensure they did not stay too long.

Elizabeth travelled in the barouche with their maid Hannah and the children, Nanny Moore having left earlier with Violet, another maid, to organise the children's things before they arrived.

The children were bright and happy due to the anticipation of seeing their Bingley cousins that morning, and William and Emma knew from when their father had been away on previous occasions, there was as strong likelihood that a present would arrive when their parents returned. They were too pre-occupied with their own thoughts to notice that their father seemed concerned and their mother was not as bright and happy as usual.

Aunt Jane and Uncle Charles were firm favourites with the Darcy children - Uncle Charles's rules were always a little more relaxed than their fathers - and there was always seemed to be more time for games. Whilst Elizabeth knew that the children would be well cared for and loved, she knew it was not the same as having their own mother and father with them…she wondered whether the children would miss their parents as much as she would miss them.

Darcy rode alongside as was his custom when all their family travelled as the barouche was too crowded (and somewhat noisy) and the weather was favourable, but he would join Elizabeth in the barouche after the children were safely ensconced at Hintlesham. Darcy considered as he rode At the rate William is growing he will soon be able to ride alongside me - he will more than likely need to do so soon as his brother and sisters continue to grow.

The children grew more excited as the barouche neared the familiar landscape near the Bingley's residence, and they grew more restless the longer they were in the coach. Darcy signaled to Elizabeth that as they were close he would ride on ahead to herald their arrival. They had previously discussed that he would do this to arrange for the speedy change of the horses, and to ensure that there were some refreshments ready for both themselves and the coachmen.

Darcy rode up to the front of Hintlesham, where it's owner was waiting on the porch - and he waved to him in greeting. Charles Bingley strode down the stairs while Darcy swung his legs off his mount and dropped to the ground.

“Darcy!” “Bingley”

The brothers shook hands and Darcy said “It is good to see you brother - I only wish it was under different circumstances”.

“We do as well, but all we can do is make the best of the situation. Is your family far behind?” Bingley always had a knack of keeping a positive perspective on things - and this was another instance where Darcy was most grateful for his talent in that area.

“Not far - they should be here before the half hour is past. I would hope that we can quickly change horses and be back on our way. Can we arrange for some tea and refreshments to be ready for that time?”

“Of course - I will see that Stevens makes the arrangements directly, but are you sure you won't stay for some luncheon?”

“Positive. I am afraid that the longer that Elizabeth stays, the harder she will find it to leave. Besides, leaving quickly is the only way of covering as much as possible of the distance to London before dark. We dare not delay in case we are too late”

“I totally understand. How has Lizzie taken the news?”

“As well as can be expected. She was rather upset last evening, and didn't have a restful night. The combination of the news on Adelaide, in addition to having to leave the children weighed heavily on her mind. I am hopeful that once we leave here she can get some rest on the coach. We are likely to be quite busy after our arrival in London”.

“Come inside and see Jane before Lizzie arrives - Jane has written a letter to Adelaide, but it would probably be best that it is given to Aunt Gardiner to read to her - it may upset Lizzie too much”.

Jane was waiting in the hallway, having seen her husband go out to the porch to greet her brother in law. The gentlemen walked inside, and Bingley gave the directions to his butler, to ensure all would be in readiness when Elizabeth and the children arrived.

Jane walked up to Darcy and said “Fitzwilliam, I am glad you have arrived safely - is Lizzie far behind?”

Darcy moved towards his sister-in law and lightly embraced her. “It is good to see you Jane - and particularly looking so well. Lizzie should be here in a few minutes, I did not leave them far up the road. I am sorry to be so hasty - Charles said you had a letter for Adelaide? It may be best that I pass it to our Aunt to read as Lizzie is still coming to terms with the news.”

“Yes of course - I thought that may be the case as Lizzie and Adelaide are so close. Here is the letter” Jane removed it from her pocketbook and gave it to Darcy “ it would perhaps be best that our aunt or uncle take care of reading it to Adelaide”. He placed the letter in his breast pocket.

“I shall see that it gets there safely”.

“Thankyou. How is Lizzie?” Jane's tone indicated her concern.

He turned and looked outside as he heard the dogs barking, and the sound of the carriage on the gravel. He was glad the letter did not have to be discussed in front of his wife. He said quickly “She was rather upset last evening and took quite a while to settle. Making things ready in the daylight hours kept her busy, but the evening allowed time to dwell on what was happening. It will be best for all that we don't stay long and be on our way. You may find her a little pale, but that was probably to be expected under the circumstances - rest assured I will take good care of her.”

“I have no doubt of that - just make sure you take care of yourself as well” Jane said gently and placed a hand on his arm.

Just then the delighted squeals of William and Emma were heard as they exited the carriage with Mr Bulloch's assistance. Next minute from behind where Jane and Darcy stood, the Bingley's eldest children Edward and Elizabeth came rushing past them to greet their cousins.

Bingley came past them to shepherd the children into the house, while Jane remained inside to greet them. Bingley swung Mathew up the stairs while Hannah carried Jane Anne, who seemed a little alarmed at all of the noise. Darcy went outside to assist his wife.

He offered his hand to Elizabeth and she stepped carefully from the carriage. “So you survived the endless chatter?” He tried to keep his tone bright to lighten her mood.

It took all of Elizabeth's concentration to deliver a reply appropriate to the mood of her husband's question as she was now very weary from the emotions of the previous day and through having to work hard to present a cheerful face to her children - one that belied her true feelings.

“Hopefully they will have exhausted themselves as much as they did me - otherwise Jane and Charles are not in for a quiet time”.

“I think they gave up any notion of having a quiet time when they volunteered to mind our family - our children always seem a great deal noisier than theirs” he said with a grin as he led her up the stairs to where Jane was waiting.

“Oh Lizzie” exclaimed Jane as her sister entered the hall.

“Jane, Jane it is good to see you.” Elizabeth held out her hands to her sister, and then stood back to examine her appearance fully. “You do look well Jane, although a little larger than when we last saw you!”

“Lizzie, you know full well that was to be expected - however I am alarmed at how much bigger I seem to be with each child”

“It must be all in your mind Jane, as you look no larger than you did with your last. I am pleased to see the glow to your skin and the flush to your cheeks. Are you sure that our family will cause you no trouble?”

“Lizzie, they will be no trouble at all - the older ones keep themselves very well amused, and the younger ones can't get into too much mischief under the watchful eye of Mrs. Hawkins - the most mischief seems to take place when Charles chooses to play along. Now if you walk this way with me we shall get you some tea before you have to be on your way again”. Jane linked her arms into Elizabeth's and walked her into the drawing room.

“I shall be glad of some refreshment Jane, I admit I am a little fatigued - we had to make haste to prepare for the journey. Oh Jane, I know Adelaide is not a young lady, but why did this have to happen now?”

“Come Lizzie and sit. You know there is never a good time for such events, nor do we have any control over them. We have to trust in providence, and make the best of each situation as it happens. We have been blessed to know Adelaide for the time that we have - we cannot ask for anymore than that.”

“Oh my wise and sensible sister - if I could only view things the way you do.”

“It is your passion for life that makes you live as you do, and all of us who love you would not like you any other way. Now take your tea, and I insist that you eat something. I have also arranged for a basket of foods for you to take on your journey.”

“See you still need to take care of your younger sister” said Elizabeth.

Jane was relieved to see Elizabeth smile, even if she didn't display the exuberance normally apparent in her demeanor.

It was not long before Darcy and Bingley joined them, and after some tea and refreshment, Darcy indicated to Elizabeth that they had best be on their way.

Jane and Charles went to fetch the children so that they could say their farewells. Darcy remained with Elizabeth. He embraced her and said to her gently “I know it won't be easy to go, but I am confident you can appear not to be sad while we take our leave. You can however flood our carriage with as many tears as you wish once we are on our way.” He looked into her eyes and saw that his words had the desired effect.

Elizabeth's eyes were glistening, but she was managing to control her tears. She even managed a small smirk at her husband's last comment before she retorted “I think you can be assured that you will be in need of a great many cloths to dry my tears - no doubt it will keep you quite occupied”.

He took her hand, kissed it and then led her back towards the hall “I look forward to being of service to you madam as always”.

Despite Elizabeth's best efforts to maintain her composure, the sight of their children lined up to wave them farewell hit Elizabeth like a blow to the face. Darcy had no difficulty in maintaining a public face in front of the children when necessary, having had occasion to travel away from Pemberley for business on a number of occasions. He was accustomed to the painful separations, and the joyous reunions that followed - however he became aware that Elizabeth had none of this experience, and he saw the pain in her eyes. He could tell she was trying to be brave, but knew that his comment regarding a carriage flooded with tears was most likely to come true.

“Elizabeth, dear, we really must leave now if we are to make any distance before nightfall”.

The spring days were gradually growing longer, but the daylight hours had not yet reached the point that it was convenient to travel long distances at night.

“Very well, but just one last kiss then”. Elizabeth bent over and lovingly kissed the upturned faces of her brood. She did not have to bend so low to William any more, being a strapping boy who had just turned 7 years of age. Four year old Emma was keen to cling to her fathers hand for as long as she could, even while she kissed her mother. Jane held 3 year old Mathew, whilst Hannah the maid held his 2 year old sister Jane Anne while Elizabeth planted a kiss on their cheeks.

“Take care of Mama, Papa, and say hello to Lala” William uttered.

“I certainly shall - and you are to take care of your brothers and sisters for me as the most senior Darcy here” said Darcy as he handed over Emma's hand to her brother, then patted his son on the shoulder. William's chest swelled on hearing his father's words, and the responsibility that came with them.

It was enough to make Elizabeth choke a sob.

“Lizzie, they will be fine” said Jane. The sisters embraced. “We will have a grand time together. Adelaide needs you more at present, and you will be a welcome relief to our Aunt Gardiner”.

“I know that's all true, it's just…” Elizabeth's eyes welled up again.

“I promise that we will all send you letters while you are in London, so you will know everything that is going on” said Jane gently.

“I'll look forward to receiving them.”

While the sisters had this exchange Darcy spoke further with Bingley. “Thank you Charles, this means a great deal to both myself and Elizabeth. From our uncles correspondence it will not be too long that we need to be away, as she is fading quite quickly. I will write as soon as we arrive. If there is any inconvenience at all send us an express immediately and we will be back in an instant. We particularly don't want any strain on our dear Jane.”

“Don't worry - all will be in order here. Just make sure you take care of Lizzie, our Aunt and of course Adelaide.”

“You have no doubts about that - they are all precious to us and I will endeavour to do my best.” The brothers shook hands, and patted each other on the back.

Darcy took his wife's arm and handed her into the barouche.

Elizabeth waved from the barouche until it rounded the first bend and entered the grove of trees that sheltered the approach to the Bingley's house. Elizabeth loved trees, particularly in spring. The dappled light filtering through the light green canopy of spring growth, played upon the landscape, but Elizabeth could see very little of it through her tears.

“Oh Fitzwilliam, how am I ever to manage without them?”

Darcy handed her the first of many cloths he had discreetly packed for this very reason “You will just have to rely on the company of your husband” he said half in jest and half in earnest, while watching her blot up her tears which were very quickly replaced with others.

He knew it was pointless to argue with Elizabeth now, nor highlight that their obligations in London were such that there would be little time to think on how much they were missing their young family. He allowed her to bury her face in his shoulder, and gently stroked her hair.

“Dearest Elizabeth, you know we will manage, and that we are likely to have little time to dwell on this once we reach London. Why not try and rest now after the activity of this morning - you will need all of your strength once we reach Adelaide”. Darcy said this to her while stroking her cheek with a few of his fingers.

The emotional events of the past day had left Elizabeth very tired, and as Darcy saw her eyes were heavy, he made her lift her legs onto the seat of the barouche, and took a blanket to lay over her. Once she was warm and comforted, and with the gentle rocking of the well sprung coach, Elizabeth had no trouble in falling asleep as they sped on their way to London.

Continue on to Next Section

© 2008 Copyright held by the author.

Reminiscences and Recollections ~ Section II

By Ann R

Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Posted on Sunday, 15 June 2008

Chapter Six

Both Darcy and Elizabeth ended up sleeping on the next leg of their journey. He eventually stirred when the wheels of the coach rumbled over a cobbled roadway, indicating that they had reached a town. Upon seeing that it was a place that they were to change horses and take some refreshments, he gently woke Elizabeth, so that she had time to make herself ready. They alighted -- glad of the opportunity to stretch their legs -- particularly Darcy, whose tall frame never coped well with long journeys by coach. After a short stop of some half hour, and seeking some light refreshments they resumed their places in the coach and continued towards London.

"So how are we to occupy ourselves on this next leg of the journey? I did bring a book but find myself not inclined to read." Elizabeth asked quite brightly.

Darcy was pleased to see that his wife was a little more like her usual self. "Well I can think of any number of diversions, however most are not suitable to be undertaken on a coach" he said while lifting her hand to meet his lips.

"Fitzwilliam Darcy! That is not what I meant" whilst her tone seemed sharp, the flush of her cheeks and look in her eyes said otherwise.

"You misinterpret my meaning, dearest. You know we always must consider proper behaviour when travelling in public, however sorely tempted. I was merely alluding to such pastimes as billiards, or chess."

"Most amusing kind sir, but none of those past time can be pursued on a coach. That being said you still have not adequately answered my question -- how should we pass the time?"

"I think we should recall other amusing meetings involving Adelaide -- it proved to be an interesting topic of conversation last evening"

"Very well then. Let us follow on from last evening. How about that dinner with our aunts and uncles? We learned a bit more about Adelaide through the Matlocks” said Elizabeth.

“And something amusing about Charles too if I recall” said her husband.

Elizabeth laughed at the thought, and Darcy was pleased that he could still bring a smile to her lips despite the circumstances.

Their afternoon tea with Adelaide had meant that there was little time for any private time before they were required to make themselves ready for dinner with the Matlocks and the Gardiners.

Darcy handled his disappointment with good grace knowing that he would have Elizabeth to himself later in the evening, and then for 10 another glorious days of privacy before Georgiana rejoined them at Pemberley. His only concern was how he was going to keep control of his loving glances towards his beautiful wife during their evening out - he knew all of their actions would both be scrutinised by their relatives, and more than likely that they would be subject to some teasing comments. He smiled to himself Well I shall just grin and bear it - if my pleasure at being married to Elizabeth causes others amusement - then so be it. Darcy knew the comments would be made not out of malice but affection from those they loved most who were delighted to see them finally united.

Elizabeth had taken some time to make herself ready for this evening, and knew that her husband would be concerned that they may arrive late. But on this first dinner engagement as a married couple she wanted to ensure that she looked her best and if that took a few more minutes then she just hoped he would ignore her slight tardiness and appreciate her efforts. She did not have to be concerned - as her husband was most certainly predisposed in her favour. But when she did eventually walk down the staircase at their London house her vision took his breath away. “Elizabeth, tell me I am not dreaming?” said Darcy in a voice choked with emotion.

Elizabeth was dressed in an elegant new gown - that Darcy knew of but had not yet seen. It was of royal blue, trimmed with a gold coloured piping, and three quarter length sleeves. Her hair was swept up with Elizabeth's curls more restrained than was usual, aided by some simple gold combs that held her more unruly curls in place. Around her neck she wore a simple necklace of sapphires - a piece that had been Darcy's mothers, and one that he had given her on the day of their wedding. She held out her hand, and he was quickly up the stairs to take it, then lead her down. He leaned closely to her and whispered “Oh that I wish we were not going out this evening. I have a good mind to send word we are indisposed, and immediately return you to your rooms”.

Conscious of the staff waiting on them in the hallway with Elizabeth's cloak, and Darcy's hat and cape, she quickly whispered back “Now you know what comments an action such as that would cause - however much I would wish to comply with your wishes. However you may escort me there later if you like…”

He had to content himself with caressing the fingers of the hand that was secured on his arm. Darcy dared not look in her eyes as he knew what he would see there - it would have certainly meant that he would have succumbed. In order to control his desires he limited himself to say “Your wish is my command madam” said Darcy grinning slightly as he escorted his wife to front of their waiting staff.

Darcy and Elizabeth attempted light conversation on the way to the Matlock residence in order to control their mutual desires. As they neared the Matlock's house where the dinner was to be held Darcy said “Elizabeth, this is no good - I must at least have a kiss in order to endure the evening - I am overcome with your loveliness. It has been a rather long afternoon without any opportunity for privacy.”

She turned to him and took his face in her hands and planted a light and delicate kiss on his lips. It was over before he realised what was happening. “That will have to sustain us both until later”. She smiled at him with sparkling eyes. “I dare not risk one of your kisses given that look in your eyes - who could tell where that may lead?” she said teasingly.

Whilst somewhat disappointed, he took a deep breath then nodded at her as he knew she was right. Any kiss that he initiated at that moment would have been enough to unsettle them both - and Elizabeth would surely have needed to adjust her appearance before they entered the house. Darcy barely had time to regather his thoughts before the carriage pulled up outside Matlock House. “You hold me at unfair advantage - you shall pay for your impudence later my dear” he said laughingly to her while he took his privilege of handing her out of the coach.

The dinner guests had already gathered at the Matlocks before the Darcy's arrived, and were waiting eagerly to see the newlywed couple. As the Darcy's were announced by the butler, all sense of formality disappeared as first Rebecca Fitzwilliam, then Madeleine Gardiner came quickly forward to claim the couple.

“My dears - how well you both look” said Rebecca Fitzwilliam claiming kisses from both Elizabeth and Darcy.

“Lizzie, Nephew it is good to see you” said Madeleine Gardiner reaching out to grasp hands and then to have her cheeks kissed by the couple.

The next moment Georgiana pushed past them both and threw her arms Elizabeth's neck. “Oh Elizabeth! I am so happy to see you”. Elizabeth returned the embrace and kissed her sister tenderly.

“Georgie!” said Darcy, picking her up and swinging her with glee. “You were not expected! What a wonderful surprise.”

Edward Gardiner, Gerald Fitzwilliam and the Colonel then joined in the joyous greetings. “No we were not expected but arrived yesterday and pressed to join the festivities” said the Colonel who was trying to comprehend the changes he noticed in his cousin's demeanour.

“I am glad you are here - whatever the circumstances”. Darcy threw his cousin a quizzical look, who responded with one that indicated there was more to tell - but later. He returned his attention to his uncles who were pressing him with their own greetings.

The aunts grabbed Elizabeth's arms and led her over to one of the lounges to begin their light hearted interrogation of the couple. Georgiana followed, and once seated Elizabeth quickly bid her to come and sit beside her and kept hold of her hand. Aunt Rebecca began “I can clearly see how happy you both are- it delights me to see it. I hope you are both well”.

Aunt Gardiner then added “And that dress - I had not seen the finished product Elizabeth -it is truly magnificent and beautifully set off with those sapphires - were they a recent gift?” she asked knowingly.

“Elizabeth - do you like the necklace? My brother had shown it to me beforehand to see if I thought you would like it” said Georgiana, trying to join in.

Overwhelmed with all of the attention, Elizabeth inhaled deeply, and the other ladies laughed. “I am sorry my dear” said Aunt Rebecca “we have hardly given you time to draw breath!”

“Pay it no heed” said Elizabeth smiling towards them all. “I just had the sudden feeling we were back at our wedding breakfast where numerous questions were the order of the day! Now if I can remember the order of questions - yes we are well, and so very happy. I am very pleased with the dress, and the necklace was a gift I received when we arrived in London, which” she said turning towards Georgiana “I like very much indeed, however I sense a conspiracy - was it purely by chance that I have a necklace that matches my new dress?”

Aunt Gardiner said softly “Fitzwilliam asked what colours had been purchased as he was considering some pieces to give you after your wedding -I saw no harm in releasing that information as I suspected your husband was wishing to arrange something appropriate”.

“And I suppose your questioning about my preferred styles in jewellery were for no other purpose than personal interest dear sister?” said Elizabeth, gently squeezing Georgiana's hand to let her know it was meant in jest.

Georgiana coloured before responding “I was commissioned to see if I could discover your tastes - I hope you are not displeased with my deception?” said Georgiana worried that she had in fact offended Elizabeth.

“Not at all - I am still getting used to all the steps that your brother has taken to surprise me this past week - thank you for helping him” responded Elizabeth. Georgiana seemed pleased with this response from her new sister.

The ladies looked up to see the gentlemen talking, and all were startled when they heard Darcy blurt out “What!”

The other men were laughing at his outburst and Elizabeth sincerely hoped that it was not as a result of them making fun of him. Rebecca Fitzwilliam saw Elizabeth's concern and had the sense to say “Gentlemen, I hope you are not teasing my nephew?”

Darcy responded “Not at all Aunt, the Colonel here just told me how he and Georgiana came to be here in time to celebrate this dinner. I would never have expected it of Charles.”

“Expected what” said Elizabeth who was eager for news of her sister.

Darcy responded “I shall let our dear cousin tell you - it seems that he and Georgiana were kicked out of Netherfield”. He knew that his wording would have Elizabeth not only alarmed but extremely curious at what had occurred.

Elizabeth's startled look soon had the men laughing further, with the Aunts and Georgiana joining in. She was now miffed - everyone else was in on the joke except her and she found it extremely frustrating. “Richard, are you going to stop laughing and enlighten me as to what my new brother has done?" Said Elizabeth quite seriously.

“I am sorry Elizabeth, but I am keen to see if you react to this the way your husband did. It has been the source of much amusement” said the Colonel.

Elizabeth was relieved to find out that the amusement was not at hers and Darcy's expense but was fearful for Jane. “If you are so keen to see my views on the matter how long am I going to have to wait for this story?” Elizabeth said in mock indignation.

The Colonel settled and finally began his tale. “Well, it was not difficult to realise that having houseguests was rather inhibiting to the newly married Bingleys, and I advised Charles that I would make arrangements for Georgiana and I to return to London. Hurst even muttered something about returning to London as well, and your father uttered that it was high time he took his family home. But Jane was insistent that we stay, and then Caroline added that we had to stay as Jane and Charles were in need of company. I can tell you that I very nearly choked on my tea when she said that” chuckled the Colonel.

Elizabeth felt need to interject “Poor Jane, exactly how many people were they entertaining?”

“Ourselves, the Hursts, Caroline, your parents, and your sister Kitty” responded the Colonel.

Elizabeth shook her head, and rolled her eyes at Darcy. He smirked as he knew what happened next whereas Elizabeth didn't. “So what happened then?” asked Elizabeth.

“Your mother then saw fit to add that she knew Jane loved entertaining, and that with their extensive household staff that she was sure it was not too taxing on them. You will be amused to know Elizabeth on that comment that Jane rolled her eyes, and Bingley was fit to burst and went quite red in the face. He had already had enough of Caroline's interference, and it seemed Bingley could take no more of family for the present. Bingley then stood up and asked quite firmly that everyone leave immediately to give Jane and himself the privacy that they deserved. He wanted everyone to leave within the hour, and not to bother Jane or himself for at least a week. He took Jane by the hand and informed all and sundry that they would be present at the front door to bid them all good day in precisely one hour and anyone who didn't like it could be damned.”

Elizabeth's eyes widened at Charles' choice of words and she understood now why her husband reacted the way he did and it took her some effort to mask her shock. It was enough to have everyone else laughing again. As she glanced towards Darcy, he caught her eye. They both realised how wise the decision to remove themselves to London was. Had they stayed at Netherfield as Bingley had proposed they would have been subjected to a similar lack of privacy, and Darcy's temper would have been surely put to the test. As this had been enough for the usually calm Charles to react, Elizabeth shuddered to think what Darcy would have said in the same situation.

The Colonel then continued. “The room sat quietly for a moment, as I don't believe anyone present had ever seen Charles react or say the things he did - Caroline was particularly miffed. Hurst, Mr Bennet and myself quickly rose and I handed Georgiana out of her chair. We quickly scurried to make ourselves ready. Charles could be heard in the hallway calling for Fosset to make ready Caroline's things. Kitty headed straight for the garden and could been seen striking a path back to Longbourn”.

Although slightly embarrassed by another mention of her mother's improper behaviour, Elizabeth was well aware that those present knew her mother and would just view it as an overzealous mother trying to bask in glory of her daughter's good marriage. “Did my mother have the sense to leave too?” said Elizabeth trying to control her amusement.

“Your father I believe escorted her away as quickly as possible. She was muttering something about Jane needing her advice on a daily basis, while he said to her that he had warned her that Jane deserved her privacy, and that she was a grown woman not in the constant need of her mothers' attention and forbid her to return to Netherfield until he permitted it.”

Darcy was relieved to see that Elizabeth could see the humour in the situation, and did not dwell on the impropriety of her mother's behaviour. “And where did Caroline go?” asked Elizabeth who was enjoying hearing Caroline Bingley put in her place by her brother.

“Hurst bundled her and Louisa into his carriage and took them to his London house. Hurst and I had spoken the evening before about how uncomfortable we all felt about being there, and were plotting together with Mr Bennet about how we could convince Charles and Jane to let us leave them alone. However it seems your mother's comments merely lit the fuse of Charles' frustration with Caroline's continual interference and presence til he could take no more!”

Elizabeth could now see why everyone found the situation so amusing - Charles Bingley was renowned for his good humour and even temper but she also knew that everyone had a breaking point. “Well I am pleased that they will finally have some time alone together.” Elizabeth and anyone else for that matter was spared any further comment on this particular event as the butler arrived to announce that dinner was to be served.

Chapter Seven

The Countess of Matlock had arranged for her honoured guests to occupy either side of the large round table in order that they could both be near guests. Georgiana was seated next to her brother with Aunt Rebecca on Darcy's other side, where as Elizabeth was surrounded by Colonel Fitzwilliam and Uncle Gardiner.

Rebecca Fitzwilliam was sensible enough to know that if she seated Darcy and Elizabeth near to each other that no one else at the table was likely to gain much conversation from either of them. She had seen to it that the table decorations were limited to afford everyone a good view of those seated at the table, and to encourage everyone to participate in whatever conversation took place. Once seated, the servants began pouring wine and serving food. Despite the presence of the servants, the good Colonel decided to stimulate the conversation by pointing a well aimed question at his cousin.

“Well Darcy, are you going to enlighten us as to how you have been spending your time in London?” said the Colonel with a rather large grin.

“Richard, that is most improper. How can you ask such a question? Your cousins are entitled to their privacy” said his mother appalled at the lack of impropriety displayed by her son. Whilst she knew that she and everyone else at the table would be most interested in the answers to his question, she knew it was most impolite to ask a newly married man such a thing.

“I don't mind Aunt in the slightest. Richard shall not have his fun at Elizabeth's and my expense. I am quite happy to relate most of what we have been up to” replied Darcy casting a glance at Elizabeth who was blushing and cast her eyes down. What the Colonel had not realised what that Darcy had fully expected some questioning along this line but perhaps not to be asked quite as directly as the Colonel had done. As a result he had already determined some responses that would satisfy their relatives without disclosing the full nature of their activities over the preceding days. He began by saying “We made good time to London after the wedding breakfast, spent some time introducing Elizabeth to the household and her new maid, and then took some time to freshen up before a late supper. The next day the weather was rather inclement, so we spent the day familiarising Elizabeth with the house, and made plans for some refurbishments.”

Elizabeth felt it necessary to add “I am in the rather difficult position that I cannot find my own way around the house. However the staff are most understanding and redirect me whenever I find myself lost”.

“I remember getting used to this house” said Rebecca Fitzwilliam. “I do believe I got lost on more than one occasion - I can quite understand how you feel”.

Darcy continued, waiting to see the comments on their other visits. “Yesterday the weather was much improved, so we took a walk in the park, and spent some time reading.” Darcy didn't reveal how little reading actually took place, but he was honest in the fact that they had every intention of spending the afternoon reading - however their minds were more on each other than on their books. “This morning we went to church, had an afternoon tea at Lady Lyell's, and then arrived here this evening.”

“Afternoon tea at Lady Lyells? Lady Adelaide Lyell your neighbour? asked Gerald Fitzwilliam. “We haven't seen or heard of her in ages”.

“Oh, and I thought this would be your first social outing after your marriage” said Rebecca Fitzwilliam who was obviously quite disappointed that her claim to the Darcy's first married social event occurring in her home.

Elizabeth felt it necessary to support her husband - she knew he was trying to satisfy everyone's polite curiosity, and not wish to upset his relatives. “We met Lady Lyell outside of church this morning - she approached us and invited us to visit her this afternoon. I do not believe it could be called a social outing Aunt, I think you can very safely claim this is our first married event”.

Rebecca Fitzwilliam seemed satisfied with this response, so Darcy saw fit to enlighten then about meeting Adelaide. He then said “Lady Lyell invited us in a way that it was quite impossible to refuse, and it seemed her purpose was purely to reacquaint herself with our family, and to meet Elizabeth. We told her of our plans to dine here this evening - she did ask us to pass on her best wishes to you” directing his response towards his Fitzwilliam relations.

Madeleine Gardiner then asked, “Would this be the same Lady Lyell who sponsors many charities?” Madeleine Gardiner and Rebecca Fitzwilliam were both involved with many charitable institutions. “I have heard the name mentioned but never had the pleasure of meeting her”.

Rebecca Fitzwilliam replied saying “She would be the very one. She would now be of a good age, but very refined and articulate with a very loving heart. She has no family remaining, and has a good income, so she uses her fortune to assist people as she sees fit.”

Elizabeth was alarmed to hear one of her aunt's comments “No family remaining? Adelaide made no mention of that.”

Gerald Fitzwilliam said “Adelaide eh? You must have made a good impression.”

“I think we may have Uncle” said Darcy “She asked that we use her christian name, and also that Elizabeth became a correspondent. She also asked that we bring Georgiana to visit when we are next in London - so she can acquaint Georgiana with some background on our mother's childhood.” When Georgiana heard this she was quite overcome, and Darcy held her hand and patted it while saying “She is very keen to meet you.”

“but what of Adelaide's family?” Elizabeth was concerned and wanted to hear about her new friend.

“Lady Lyell married the James Lyell, the Earl of Stradbroke, and they had two children - Henry who was a good friend of your father Darcy, and Clarissa who was your mothers' best friend. Henry died in a shipwreck when travelling back from visiting their properties in Jamaica, a shame too as he was on his way back to be married. Clarissa married and had three children - all her family, herself included were lost to typhoid not long before Georgiana was born. The Earl died about 6 months after your mother. So Lady Lyell lost all of her immediate family - I am unsure if what distant relations there are.” Said Gerald Fitzwilliam.

“Adelaide said that we are actually related as our grandmother and her were cousins” said Darcy.

“That's true. I had forgotten about that association. Well then, apart from ourselves, I am unsure who else there is.” replied his uncle.

Rebecca Fitzwilliam was concerned that the tone of the dinner had taken on a sombre mood and tried to lighten the tone of the conversation. “So what did you discuss with Lady Lyell this afternoon?”

Elizabeth immediately saw what her new aunt was trying to achieve and was prepared to endure some teasing at their own expense having had her initial curiosity satisfied in relation to Adelaide's own family. “Well, she mentioned that Fitzwilliam's and Georgiana's parents actually first met in her house at her daughter's coming out ball, and they had a similar afternoon tea after their own marriage. So it was nice to think that we were doing the same. She also asked us what Lady Catherine thought about our marriage, and guessed quite correctly how she reacted”.

“How much of your conversations with Lady Catherine did you reveal?” asked Aunt Fitzwilliam smiling.

“Most but not all” said Darcy.

“I was honest in the fact that I had not been necessarily polite in my responses to Lady Catherine” said Elizabeth while she coloured.

“And Adelaide said that Lady Catherine deserved what she got!”said Darcy now chuckling. “She also added that she heartily approved of my choice in wife”.

“I think we can all agree that you are both ideally suited to each other” said Madeleine Gardiner. There were nods and murmurs of agreement from around the table.

“Well it seems that you had a most successful afternoon then, particularly as she wishes to remain as an acquaintance. She was rather good company, do you think she would welcome a visit from us?” Said Rebecca Fitzwilliam.

“I believe she would. What I have been able to determine so far is that Adelaide is rather lonely and is seeking some diversion and would most certainly welcome you calling on her” replied Darcy.

“And what are your opinions of her nephew?” asked Gerald Fitzwilliam.

Darcy was happy to respond positively “I will admit I was initially rather reluctant to visit with her - but ended up enjoying myself enormously. It appears that my wife and Adelaide share similar temperaments - being both quite decided and forthright in their opinions.” Darcy smiled knowingly at Elizabeth to reassure her he meant no malice in his choice of words. “I look forward to seeing her again when we are next in London, and finding out more about our parents - it would seem that she will be able to tell us more about our parents past.”

Madeleine Gardiner then asked “and what are your thoughts Lizzie?”

“I was very pleased to make her acquaintance, and found her to be excellent company. She was genuinely amused at Lady Catherine's attempts to separate us so that endeared her to us immediately. I do look forward to seeing her again, and maybe even encourage her to visit Pemberley when the weather is warmer. I think it would be too much for her to travel that far at this time of year” said Elizabeth.

“I think you would enjoy her company Madeleine - I shall renew our acquaintance and then arrange for you to meet Lady Lyell.” Said Rebecca Fitzwilliam.

“That's very kind of you - but I would not wish to impose myself on her” said Madeleine Gardiner.

“I do believe she will insist upon meeting you once she knows of your good works and more particularly your relationship with Elizabeth.” Aunt Fitzwilliam replied.

By the time this conversation had taken place, dinner had been completed, and the ladies and gentlemen decided to separate for a brief while. Although Rebecca Fitzwilliam was reluctant to separate her guests, she knew that Madeleine Gardiner and Georgiana would welcome a few moments together with Elizabeth, and suspected that the men folk would some time together, so they arranged to meet again in the drawing room after a short while.

The ladies immediately surrounded Elizabeth, with both aunts stating their pleasure in seeing her so happy. Georgiana was quite content just to sit near Elizabeth - Elizabeth sensed that Georgiana was a little lost and perhaps fearful of intruding on their happiness. Elizabeth was quick to reassure her both in words and gestures, and insisted upon holding Georgiana's hand in a display of sisterly affection that was noticed by both Aunt Gardiner and Rebecca Fitzwilliam.

Aunt Gardiner then said to Elizabeth “Now is everything still in order for you to complete some shopping before your departure for the north?”

Elizabeth replied “Yes aunt. Fitzwilliam is to attend to some business paperwork in the morning whilst we are out, then we intend to depart shortly after luncheon.” Elizabeth then went onto add “Now Georgiana, and Aunt Rebecca - you must join us! I have determined my wardrobe requires a few pieces so that I do not disgrace my new family, and so my kind husband has arranged for some time to visit some establishments before we depart. I would be most grateful if you could come with us as I would value your opinion on what items would be most appropriate.” The need for some time shopping had been determined prior to their marriage. Whilst Mr Bennet had provided funds to buy items for her trousseau, Darcy had insisted that Elizabeth not tax her father's accounts, and that he wished to buy his wife some items after their marriage - the plan was kept very quiet so as not to offend Mr Bennet. Aunt Gardiner had already been pressed to assist with the purchases.

Rebecca Fitzwilliam looked at Georgiana to determine her interest in such a scheme, and was well pleased. “I think we could safely say that we would enjoy such an excursion - don't you Georgiana?”

“I would be very happy to join you sister, if you think I can be of assistance” replied Georgiana.

“I insist upon it - you all have a far greater notion of what I would require - I believe I will be quite lost without your advice” said Elizabeth. Although she knew that this was a bit of an embellishment as Aunt Gardiner was well up on the latest styles and fashions, Elizabeth was well aware that her duties as the mistress of Pemberley required some very different wardrobe items than those she usually wore. Whilst her linens and muslins were respectable, other fabrics would be considered more fitting to her new station in life - and the opinions of all of the ladies would ensure that she was not the subject of gossip or ridicule.

Elizabeth then thought she would ask her husband for some money to purchase Georgiana some items - Georgiana may find some delight in shopping at the same time as her sister.

Meanwhile the gentlemen had retired to a side lounge. Darcy seized the opportunity to ask his uncle a further question about Adelaide. “Uncle, do you know why our family lost touch with Adelaide? It seems surprising given that she resides next door to our house.” Darcy was reluctant to ask such a question in front of Georgiana and Elizabeth in case the answer caused any distress.

His uncle answered. “Not specifically. I can only determine that it was a result of people losing touch after a loss. As James Lyell died not long after your mother I can only surmise that both your father and Adelaide were both consumed with their own grief. In cases such as those, it has been known for some to withdraw from those who they once shared a close association as it brings up too many memories. I know of no falling out or disagreement - it would be more likely that our families just drifted apart. Adding weight to that notion is the fact Adelaide made contact with you today - if there was any past disagreement I am sure she would not have come forward to make your acquaintance.”

Darcy nodded. “That would make sense. I don't recall my father ever mentioning her, but it was intrigued that once Adelaide had spoken with us this morning, I recalled visiting her with my mother. Mother used to take afternoon tea with her, while I spent my time in her library.”

The Colonel added - “That would be right - you always had your head in a book”.

Edward Gardiner chimed in “There is nothing wrong with that. Reading is both a way to improve your knowledge and sharpen your mind.”

“Well, I have obviously not been spending my free time wisely - look where it got Darcy - not only was he fortunate enough to marry a beautiful woman, but one who also enjoys reading as well. Tell me Darce, so are you telling me that all your free time since your marriage has been spent reading?” said the Colonel with a sly grin.

“None of your business Richard. Despite our close relationship there is some information that I am not willing to share apart from saying that my wife and I delight in each other's company” replied his cousin, while he reddened considerably. “Speaking of which I think it is high time we returned to the ladies”.

Edward Gardiner was bold enough to add “Tiring of separation from my niece?”

“Yes. And I am happy to admit it” said Darcy not wishing to be drawn into further comment that would indicate how much he was missing the private company of his wife.

The gentlemen rose to rejoin the ladies, and the Colonel drew Darcy to one side and said. “Seriously, I have never seen you so happy as I do today. I am very pleased for you both. You are a very fortunate man”.

Darcy was warmed by his cousin's comments and did not hesitate to respond “I am reminded how fortunate I am every time I gaze upon her lovely face, and I intend never to forget it who blessed I truly am.”

The dinner party guests then enjoyed their coffee and further conversation. Their hours together passed very quickly due to the good company and lively discussion, and it was soon time to depart to their respective residences. Georgiana was to remain with her uncle and aunt until she travelled to Pemberley in ten days hence.

While they were making themselves ready to leave Elizabeth enlightened her husband as to the new shopping arrangements for the following day. It was agreed that Aunt Gardiner would first collect Rebecca Fitzwilliam and Georgiana before collecting Elizabeth at about 11 o'clock the next morning. Darcy was pleased that Georgiana had been persuaded to participate in the outing, and knew that they could end the evening with a short farewell as they would see each other again the following day. Both Elizabeth and Darcy fondly bid their relatives farewell, before departing in their carriage that was to take them back to their London residence.

Sinking back against the plush headboard Darcy said to his wife “It was a very enjoyable evening, and quite a pleasant surprise to see Georgiana. Wait until I next see Bingley!” He was still quite amused by Charles' outburst.

“I am pleased that we came, and that Georgiana will join me tomorrow…..but I am now very pleased to have my husband to myself” said Elizabeth coyly glancing at her husband.

“My dear the emotions and desires that I have managed to keep in check for the evening cannot be controlled much longer -particularly after a comment such as that” he said while looking at her with eyes that expressed his longing. “Do we really need the assistance of others to make ourselves ready for bed?”

“I think I could manage - if I were to have your assistance” said Elizabeth.

“Consider it done” he uttered as their carriage pulled up at their doorstep. Darcy was quickly out of the carriage and then handed out his wife. Once inside and relieved of their outer evening coats Darcy dismissed the staff saying they would see themselves to bed.

In their haste to enter the house Darcy and Elizabeth missed seeing the light in an upper room of the house next door. Adelaide was watching their arrival with a smile on her face as she witnessed the couple hand in hand mount the stairs to their front door. So very much in love - oh to be that young again!

“Do you think the staff were surprised at our application to see ourselves to bed that night?” asked Elizabeth.

“Yes and no. They were more than likely expecting an application of that nature at some time - I think their only surprise was that it took us so long to ask!” smirked Darcy.

Chapter Eight

By the time Darcy and Elizabeth had finished recalling the story of their first married dinner party at Matlock house the hour was growing late, and daylight fading. This day's confinement in the coach was finally at an end. The day had been pleasant enough for travelling with weather being neither too hot nor too cold. The travellers were now rewarded with a glowing sunset.

Darcy had sent a rider ahead anticipating where they would need to spend the night. This ensured that there would be little time wasted between their arrival, having their needs for the night addressed, and the preparations required seen to for their early departure the following morning.

"While I know I shall be glad of the opportunity to stretch my legs, I know it will be of greater relief to you" Elizabeth ventured to her husband.

"I must confess I shall be relieved to spend some hours away from the confines of the coach" replied Darcy. "I asked Mr Newell to ride ahead and arrange a light supper to be ready for our arrival so that we can retire early - we should depart as early as possible on the morrow - will you be sufficiently rested if we were to depart at 8?"

"I would be happy to depart early if that would be possible - I know that we should not delay our arrival in London any longer than necessary".

"I believe 8 will be early enough - we both need our rest - it has been a long and trying day. We should rest well before we see Adelaide" and it is likely to be the last opportunity for a decent amount of rest for some days yet - he thought. Darcy was reluctant to share this last thought with Elizabeth lest it make her dwell on sadder feelings.

They stayed the night at the ______ville Inn. The proprietor was a friendly man, and they found the rooms comfortable and the repast very satisfying. They dined lightly on soup, breads and a pudding before retiring rather early than was their usual custom. Due to the varying emotions and the fatigue from the journey, they fell asleep quickly, and before they knew it the morning had dawned.

Darcy rose earlier than Elizabeth, and took efforts to ensure that their things were quietly made ready for their departure before his wife needed to arise. He knew there was a slightly selfish motive in his actions - he did enjoy watching her as she slept. Her face relaxed and calm, her lips pouted every so slightly, and her dark curls spread across the pillow. Her gentle rhythmic breathing belied the troubled thoughts that he knew were occupying her mind. I shall let her sleep a short while longer, there is no urgency to wake her any earlier than necessary.

Shortly after 7 am Elizabeth stirred. It was later than her usual hour of waking. Since the children had arrived she had found it difficult to sleep far beyond 6 o'clock. Some noisy birds (who seemed to be fighting over a nesting position outside their window) had finally broken her sleep, and seeing her slowly open her eyes, Darcy quietly ventured, "Good morning my dearest - did you sleep well?"

"Dearest husband I most certainly did. I had no idea I was so tired - I found it impossible to stay awake after I lay in the bed - I hope I have not delayed our departure?"

"Not at all it is only just after 7 - there is plenty of time yet for you to take breakfast and make yourself ready."

The decision the previous evening about their anticipated departure time, and the necessary duties required to make the Darcy's ready to leave, ensured that they were both occupied in undertaking the tasks at hand. Darcy for his part was pleased that again Elizabeth had little time to consider that within a few hours she would be at Adelaide's side. Elizabeth meanwhile took extra pains with her toilette and gathering her things - making unnecessary work on purpose, as if to avoid having any time unaccounted for where she would be required to sit and contemplate the day ahead.

The clock in the village church chimed 8 as the Darcy's entered their coach, ready to undertake their last leg of this journey to London.

As the coach rumbled over the cobbled stones paving the way out of the village, Elizabeth asked her husband about the time it would take to journey to London.

"My mind is not in a state to presently recall - how long is it to London from here?"

He turned back from the window and looked towards her. "It should be 2 hours at most until we are on the outskirts of London. How long it will take us to reach the house will be dependent upon how busy London is this day - one can never tell. At least the weather is again fine and will not delay our journey. I daresay you can safely anticipate that we should be at the house before noon."

"Well I will hope that we make good speed and arrive well before that - I do not believe I have the patience to sit long in the coach - however comfortable the coach and delightful the company"

Darcy smiled at her - he knew she was making an effort to be amusing when her heart was not really in the lightest of moods. He felt it best to try and distract her again - recalling another of their earlier meetings with Adelaide. "You had the patience to learn some new duets with Georgiana when she was given that music by Adelaide"

"That was a joy and a pleasure - it brought so much happiness to them both" replied his wife.

On their first journey from Pemberley after their marriage the Darcy's, including Georgiana had arrived in London on a January winter's afternoon just as the last daylight was fading. Being late, and with sleet beginning to fall it was inappropriate to call on Adelaide that day. They were all somewhat fatigued by the journey - it had taken 3 days due to the weather that prevailed at that time of year and the associated short daylight hours. Just after their arrival, Elizabeth sent a note to Adelaide in order to ascertain if a meeting the following morning would be suitable. She did not have to wait long for the joyous response that Adelaide would be delighted to see them the following morning for tea and was hoping that they would also stay to lunch.

Adelaide was eagerly anticipating the return of her London neighbours. She had corresponded with Elizabeth over the period that had transpired since their first meeting, and was looking forward to having the opportunity to converse again in person with Elizabeth and Darcy, and finally have the chance to meet Georgiana. Although Georgiana could have visited Adelaide with her aunt just after the Darcy's were married, she had chosen to wait until she could visit Adelaide in the company of her brother and sister.

The weather the day after the Darcy's returned to London was no better than the previous evening. As a result the city was very quiet, as most people were choosing to remain indoors. However, as Adelaide was only in the next house there was little to prevent the Darcy's honouring their morning engagement. As Adelaide's parlour clock struck 11, Smythe her butler, knocked on the door to announce the arrival of the Darcy's.

Adelaide rose to greet the party and exclaimed "Elizabeth, Fitzwilliam - it is good to see you again! This must be Georgiana - my dear it is good to finally meet you - I have long looked forward to this".

The effervescence of Adelaide's greeting overwhelmed them all - particularly Georgiana who hardly knew what to make of it. She withdrew slightly while Elizabeth moved forward and took Adelaide's proffered hands and leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.

"Adelaide it is delightful to see you so well - we are sorry we could not at least call last evening, however we were a little tired after the journey so took the opportunity to rest." said Elizabeth.

Fitzwilliam then moved forward and kissed her cheek. "Good morning Adelaide - I am pleased to finally introduce Georgiana to you." Darcy turned away from Adelaide and reached out to take Georgiana's hand.

"Adelaide, this is my sister Georgiana - Georgiana, I am very pleased to introduce you to Lady Adelaide Lyell".

Georgiana was hesitant to move forward despite the reassuring grasp of her brother's hand. I know both Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam speak very affectionately of Lady Lyell, however she appears to be rather frightening, though her eyes seem kindly enough. Georgiana Darcy, take control of your senses and don't embarrass yourself or your family. Having spoken sternly to herself, Georgiana lifted her head and met Adelaide's eyes.

"Lady Lyell, I am very pleased to make your acquaintance - my brother and sister have spoken warmly of their meeting with you". There, that wasn't too hard, and I have said more than I usually do to a new acquaintance - my brother cannot be too displeased with that.

Darcy was pleased - he knew what an effort it was for Georgiana to converse with anyone outside of her immediate family. He knew that this acquaintance would help bring Georgiana further out of her shell and assist in building her confidence, just as Elizabeth had already started to do.

Elizabeth stood to the side observing them all. She was just as keen as Darcy for Georgiana to be comfortable in Adelaide's company - hoping as well that Georgiana would warm quickly to their neighbour just as they had done.

Immediately noticing that Georgiana was exceedingly shy, Adelaide stepped towards her with a warm smile, and a slight twinkle in her eye - "My dear, you must call me Adelaide as your brother and sister do. My you are so like your mother" Adelaide said wistfully as she lifted her hand to brush it against Georgiana's fair hair. "Come, you must sit beside me while we are all reacquainted. I regret not knowing you as you grew - I often saw you come and go from your house when you were in London - but delighted that I will now have the chance to know you better." Adelaide kept a firm hold of one of Georgiana's hand as she felt her tremble slightly and led her towards one of the sofas and bid her to sit down.

Georgiana still looked somewhat alarmed as she took up her place beside Adelaide - Elizabeth managed to catch her eye and sent her a reassuring smile.

Some refreshments soon arrived, and Elizabeth asked Adelaide if she wished her to pour "Yes of course - you recall my strength is not quite up to such a large teapot".

As Elizabeth made herself busy in pouring the tea, Adelaide began the conversation. "So my dears, will I continue to have the pleasure of your company over lunch? I would just like to know so we can plan our day"

Darcy responded on behalf of his family - "We would all be delighted to stay to lunch, however I must depart immediately afterwards - I have some business to attend to. I am seeking to conclude my business between this day and the next, so that we can spend as much time as possible with our cousin the Colonel before he departs for Spain".

"I take it therefore he is not yet in London - where is he at present? enquired Adelaide.

"He is making his way back from Bath after visiting his parents - he is expected to arrive back in London tomorrow".

"Has he been there long? - I am aware that Rebecca and Gerald left for Bath shortly after Christmas"

"He went shortly after the New Year - he was unable to take leave until that time."

"I see, and how long is it until he must depart for Spain?" asked Adelaide.

"No more than 5 days. It was for that reason that we came to London - due to the time required to travel to Bath there was no time for him to visit with us at Pemberley - hence the purpose for our visit was to see him without the need for him to travel to Derbyshire".

"It is obvious that you hold each other in the highest regard" Adelaide responded.

"Most definitely - he may be a close relative, but I could not wish for a better friend - I most fortunate in knowing Richard and Charles Bingley - there are no two men I could wish to have as better friends. However, I am remiss - I should include Elizabeth's uncle Gardiner in the same light - they are all the best of friends and relatives to us all - without them we should not be in the happy state that we now find ourselves" Darcy cast a glance towards Elizabeth that carried a deeper meaning between them and not evident to the others in the room.

Adelaide knew instinctively that due to the closeness of the relationship between the Colonel and Darcy that Fitzwilliam held some concerns surrounding the reason that would take Richard Fitzwilliam from the shores of England, so she thought it best to now steer the conversation in a different direction.

Her gaze was directed towards Georgiana "I do believe that I made some sort of commitment with Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam that I would relate about your parents first meeting that took place in this very house - I am most conscious that I do not wish to go back on my word" Adelaide immediately was aware that Darcy's countenance changed, Elizabeth looked relieved and Georgiana seemed eager for any further information, so she commenced her tale.

Georgiana plucked up the courage to venture a question "I have often wondered how our parents met - may I enquire as to the occasion?"

"My dear I am most pleased to relate it" Adelaide patted Georgiana's hand reassuringly. "It is a charming story. My own daughter Clarissa was your mother's closest friend - did Fitzwilliam tell you that we are related through your grandmother Charlotte - the previous Countess of Matlock?"

"Yes he did" said Georgiana rather eagerly for once forgetting her shyness as she concentrated on what Adelaide was saying and desirous of hearing what would be related next.

"Well it came time for Clarissa and your mother to be presented to society and be honoured with their own ball - Clarissa was to be first as she was but a few months older than your mother, with your mothers own ball to occur the following week. I also had a son Henry, and older brother to Clarissa who had recently gone up to Cambridge. With the occasion of his sisters coming out ball he asked if a few friends could also attend - your father was one of those friends".

"How did my father come to know your son?"

"They were in the same college together - I am unsure of the exact circumstances of how they initially met. When Henry became aware of the ball in Clarissa's honour, he asked and was granted permission to invite some friends to attend. My husband and I were glad that there would be some young men to partner the ladies that had been invited - balls and parties never provide a great deal of amusement if there are insufficient men to dance" responded Adelaide in all seriousness while Georgiana nodded in agreement.

At this comment Elizabeth choked slightly whilst stifling a laugh - she immediately remembered an evening's entertainment where there were very few men available to dance, and one gentleman in particular was most reluctant to participate in the evening's proceedings. He had since more than compensated for his reticence to dance that evening. She happened to glance in Darcy's direction and was immediately aware that he recalled Elizabeth's rebuke on that very subject.

"Are you aware of who first introduced them to each other?" asked Darcy as if to deflect Elizabeth's attention away from her thoughts.

Adelaide responded - oblivious to the unuttered thoughts that were being relayed between Darcy and Elizabeth - "It was all down to Henry - he seriously took on the role of elder brother to them both ensuring that Clarissa and Anne were introduced to young men who would make suitable dance partners. I believe even he was aware of the immediately attraction between your mother and father".

"An immediate attraction?" asked Georgiana

"Yes my dear. They danced but one dance together - and then they sought no other partners the entire evening. Your mother then ensured that all of Henry's friends would be attending her own ball the following week by arranging the appropriate invitations".

"Did they dance all of the dances together at my mother's ball?" enquired Georgiana.

"No, they did not - but out of courtesy not choice. As the second ball was in your mother's honour it would not have been proper for her to dance every dance with one gentleman. She alternated dances with your father with dances with Henry and some other cousins and acquaintances in order to give the appearance of spreading her dances around. However, if you had ever happened upon her record of dances from the evening, you would have found your father's name to appear there more than a few times".

"Were you keeping count?" asked Darcy amused at the antics that mothers took to promote their daughters in the eyes of eligible young men.

"No, not exactly, however between your grandmother and I were keeping a close eye on whom was dancing with whom - it is a practice quite often used by mothers with daughters of marriageable age" responded Adelaide as if to defend her actions.

"I must agree with that comment - it is one of my mother's favourite pastimes - although she now only has two daughters to watch out for. May I ask how long was it between the time that they met and when they married?" said Elizabeth.

"George was thoughtful in both plan and action - I do believe he had reached some agreement with Anne before the end of that summer, however as had another year to complete at Cambridge they planned to wait until he had completed his studies. None of us were aware that such an agreement had been reached - that information only became known to us after a consent to marry had been sought and obtained. I do believe that my own daughter knew or at least suspected as much - there were few if any secrets between Anne and Clarissa such was their intimacy".

"Do you mean that they were secretly engaged?" asked Georgiana.

"I believe that to be the case - though we have no way of confirming that fact now that all of those involved are no longer with us".

Georgiana had been swept into the tale of her parent's betrothal, and quite forgot her shyness. "I would like to think that it was so - however my father never seemed to be the romantic type."

At this point Darcy could add some information that placed weight on the likely turn of events that Adelaide had relayed "Georgiana, I did have the good fortune to witness our parents together - you can be comfortable in the knowledge that our father could play the romantic on occasion. Subtleness and secrecy were his style - the occasions that I witnessed related to presentation of bouquets of favourite flowers, an item of apparel, gifts of music and books - all of when they were least expected."

"Ah, so your father did provide some guidance in the ways to win a woman's heart" taunted Elizabeth.

"It would appear so placed in that light. I was obviously not conscious of the lessons, but I have hopefully put some of them to good use"

"That you have and hopefully will continue to do!" said Elizabeth in playful mood as if she was oblivious to the company surrounding them.

Darcy sent her a glance that was both at once a warning and an acknowledgement - that was a conversation that would need to be completed at a later time.

At that point Smythe knocked and received permission to enter. "Madam, luncheon is ready to be served"

"Thankyou Smythe" - responded Adelaide, and then directing her attention towards Georgiana, Elizabeth and Darcy said "Come my dears, it is not often I have the opportunity to entertain such excellent company - let us dine, and continue this conversation over lunch".

Chapter Nine

Adelaide had her staff arrange for their luncheon to be served in her dining room. Her guests found the room was as ornately furnished as the other areas of the house they had seen, and that Adelaide's excellent taste for elegance without overstatement was again in evidence. The Darcy's entered the room, and saw that the table had been laid with fine china and silver, some heavy glassware and some fruits. The table was rather large, but had been set towards one end. Adelaide had seen to the seating arrangements, and quietly outlined these to her guests.

"Georgiana, I would be pleased if you would sit next to me on my right, and Elizabeth to my left. Fitzwilliam, I hope you don't mind, but may I ask you to sit beside Elizabeth?"

"It would be a duty I would be most pleased to perform" he replied with a grin.

"I thought as much!" quipped Adelaide.

They were soon seated, and Adelaide's servants were immediately at their posts, and commenced serving the luncheon. The meal was light and refreshing. Despite the cold and the fact that it was still winter Adelaide had selected some dishes that were appropriate to the time of year, but were not heavy in terms of appearance or taste. Despite the large number of dishes that were presented - particularly given the number of people who were dining that day - they all found that they could eat rather more than they normally did in the middle of the day.

Adelaide ensured that the conversation that had started in the morning continued over lunch - she thought Georgiana in particular would be interested in further information concerning her mother. She talked about Anne Darcy's love of flowers and music, poetry and fine laces. "She cared more for poetry than for novels, and was a most excellent correspondent. I dare say she spent a large number of hours each day writing to Clarissa, myself and her family - I do know that she had a favourite writing desk at Pemberley. When she was living in this house, she had a favourite room for writing upstairs - I must show it to you later".

Before Adelaide could steer the conversation further in that direction, she, Elizabeth and Darcy were all surprised when Georgiana tentatively ventured a question "Did my mother dine in this room?"

Adelaide had already ascertained that Georgiana was a sensitive soul who was extremely shy. Without even looking at Darcy and Elizabeth she gently took the hand that rested lightly on the dining table and smiled into Georgiana's eyes. "Yes she did, on a large number of occasions - both before and after her marriage".

"Oh, it is nice to think that I am seeing some new things that my mother has seen, and I would really like to see that desk - that is if it would not be an inconvenience." replied Georgiana while casting her eyes about the room.

"Well then, after luncheon and after the time Fitzwilliam needs to leave to attend to his business, I will introduce you to more rooms that your mother frequented including the one where she liked to write- I believe there may be many items about that will be of interest you."

Elizabeth suddenly thought that this may be a chance for Georgiana to venture out on her own, however Adelaide had already anticipated that thought and added for Elizabeth's benefit "Elizabeth, you must join in our girl's afternoon - it will be just like having Clarissa and Anne about the house again".

Elizabeth immediately saw Adelaide's line of thinking - it was just as beneficial for Adelaide to revisit her past as it was for Georgiana. "I would be delighted to join you both"

"It is just as well I have business to attend to this afternoon - although I will expect my girls to relate any item that may be of interest to me at the end of the day" said Darcy with a smile directed towards Georgiana and then Elizabeth.

"Dearest brother - of course we will" replied Georgiana with growing enthusiasm.

"Rest assured, you shall not be deprived of any intelligence we become aware of" said Elizabeth.

Darcy left the ladies shortly after their luncheon had concluded, stating that he expected to spend some hours with his lawyer, then banker, and had a further meeting at his club. He was not expected to be home until around 6 o'clock in the evening. This anticipated schedule left Adelaide, Georgiana and Elizabeth many hours to explore Adelaide's residence and the time to become acquainted with a little more of Anne Darcy's earlier life.

Adelaide began her tour of the house in the library - a fine room lined with many volumes some of which Elizabeth recognised from the library at Pemberley. There were many obvious similarities in subject matter and taste between the former master of the Lyell household and his close friend George Darcy. Adelaide did take pains to point out a few books that had been designed for children - one of which had been a particular favourite of Darcy's.

"I wonder if Fitzwilliam remembers this book" said Adelaide. "I must point it out to him next time he visits - he was quite content to sit with this book while your mother and I took tea" said Adelaide directing her gaze towards Georgiana.

From there, they moved to a lounge that was used as a music room - it had a very fine pianoforte - one of the earlier examples of its time, and one which had been played by Adelaide's daughter Clarissa and also by Anne Darcy.

"Your mother and my daughter were very fond of this room and this instrument" said Adelaide indicating the pianoforte in the corner of the lounge.

"Was there any particular favourite composer, or a style of music?" enquired Georgiana.

"They had a particular preference for duets - this afforded the opportunity for them to play together and provided this household with many hours of enjoyment. I had the good fortune to hear them practice frequently. I spent many happy hours in the adjacent room listening to them whilst attending to my correspondence. I am sure they were aware that I listened to their fingering, and the laughter that frequently ensued when they attempting some new or quite challenging - although I was not privy to the conversations that took place between their performances. One can only imagine what they may have discussed to cause such merriment."

"What is in the adjacent room?" enquired Elizabeth wondering why Adelaide may have overheard the music and laughter.

"A small parlour - I believe the equivalent room in your own house was converted to be a serving room as it is near to the dining area - however, my husband fitted it out for me as a writing room. It provides a pleasant view over the smaller courtyard, and the light is quite excellent - even in the winter months."

"A very thoughtful conversion" responded Elizabeth.

"James was a very caring man Elizabeth - it has been quite arduous living without his good companionship and counsel".

Elizabeth could see that Adelaide was much affected - on her own part she would dread to think of a life without Fitzwilliam now that she knew what good companionship was to be afforded by a loving and considerate husband. Elizabeth suddenly had a thought "Adelaide, is there any of your daughters music left in this room?"

"I do believe there is - there is a bureau to the side with a number of papers - it has been some time since I have had reason to look at it"

The three ladies made their way over to the bureau and Adelaide indicated that Georgiana should open the lid.

"Do you mind me looking through this Adelaide?" asked Georgiana rather hesitantly.

"No my dear, I would much rather that you rummage around to see what is there - it has only ever been a repository for music and the like"

Georgiana picked up some papers and placed them on a table to afford the opportunity for a closer examination by them all. There were a number of manuscripts, some yellowed indicating their age, others slightly crumpled from having been caught up in the rather large pile. Elizabeth noted a few pieces that were personal favourites of herself and Darcy, and Georgiana noted a few others by composers with whom Elizabeth was a little less familiar.

Adelaide seized upon a few pieces that were duets. "Ah these bring back some memories. I can recall both your mother and Clarissa labouring many hours over these more complicated pieces. "Georgiana, I understand you play very well, could I impose upon you to favour me with a rendition?"

"I would rather practice first - I would not wish to disappoint you with my performance" replied Georgiana.

"I am certain my dear that you would never do that - but do I ask too much that if while you were in London that you would undertake some of your practices here? I assure you that I would not intrude - I would welcome hearing the music in the background."

Elizabeth was hesitant how Georgiana would respond to this request. Georgiana was nervous in performing even to the family - she did play for her own enjoyment, but lacked confidence in her abilities to know that others were enchanted by her skill and expertise. To both Elizabeth's and Adelaide's surprise and delight Georgiana agreed, and arrangements were made that she would visit again on the morrow for this very purpose. Further Georgiana asked if she might borrow some of the duets to practice with Elizabeth. Adelaide readily agreed - the music would finally be put to good use again.

"Adelaide, please do not harbour any allusions to the standard of my playing" stated Elizabeth. "Georgiana is a very talented performer, whilst I am rather lazy when it comes to my application and practice."

Georgiana sprung to Elizabeth's defence. "Elizabeth, how can you say such a thing -both my brother and I have rarely heard anything so beautiful as your playing and singing"

"I thank you for your comments dearest sister, however your brother in particular is rather biased in my favour. If examined closely you will find my performances are in need of a great deal of work - and I have been rather remiss in my practice of late" said Elizabeth quite truthfully.

"I think you have good reason of late not to practice" said Adelaide not unkindly. "I would be quite pleased to hear some of these duets again, but I am content if I am to wait for such a pleasure until you have had the chance to practice"

"Thank you for the time to ensure that my performance is not an embarrassment to my new family- I am sure that with Georgiana's guidance I will apply myself to the necessary practice" said Elizabeth.

"Well, we should move on from this room - there is still more to see" said Adelaide.

Adelaide took them to the next floor of the house where most of the bed chambers were located. Elizabeth and Georgiana were taken to a room that had been decorated in a pale yellow. Elegant and delicate fixtures and fittings were apparent in the room - both Georgiana and Elizabeth murmured their appreciation of the decoration as they entered.

"This was the room your mother had as her own." said Adelaide to Georgiana. She lived her for some considerable time off and on before her marriage."

"Was yellow her favourite colour?" asked Georgiana.

"I believe it was" Adelaide said as she responded to the question. My husband and I had the rooms redecorated when the girls were about 5 - that was shortly before your mother came to stay with us for the first of many extended periods. Both Anne and Clarissa were asked to select a colour for their rooms - this shade of primrose yellow was your mother's choice."

Elizabeth noticed the way that Georgiana moved about the room - gently running her fingers over the fabrics and furniture almost as if she would feel her mother's touch.

"Was this the desk you were alluding to earlier?" asked Georgiana, moving towards a table near to the window.

"Not this desk, although your mother did use that on occasion when she was seeking some privacy. The other desk I mentioned earlier is down the hall" responded Adelaide.

Adelaide then indicated her own daughters room next to the one that Anne Darcy had occupied in her youth - it was decorated in much the same manner, however it's colouring was blue. "Clarissa preferred this shade of blue to anything else. Colour was probably the only thing where the girls had a difference in opinion - in everything else clothing, music, entertainment - they were very much of one mind."

They continued along the hallway. At the end of the corridor there was a small room with rather large windows. It was furnished with some elegant lounges and a fine desk made of yew. Adelaide then said "This is where your mother preferred to write her letters - she enjoyed the view over the gardens. It is particularly pleasant in the spring when the flowers are in bloom".

Elizabeth happened to glance at Georgiana who was obviously deep in reverie. It seemed to Elizabeth that Georgiana could almost sense her mother's presence in the room.

Georgiana finally saw fit to comment "I can see why she liked it so - it is a pleasant prospect, and the light is fine even at this time of year".

"Quite so" said Adelaide. "We can always revisit these rooms later, but there is something else that I would like you to see".

Elizabeth and Georgiana followed Adelaide back down the corridor, and crossed an expansive landing and made their way to the rooms on the other side. Again Elizabeth could see the similarities in the design of her own house, but noted the differences in style and decoration.

Adelaide opened a large door to a suite of rooms. "These are my rooms" said Adelaide. "There is something in here that will be of particular interest".

Both Georgiana and Elizabeth wondered what Adelaide may have to show them. They were looking around trying to determine what was to be shown.

"There, now you will see what I mean about Georgiana being so like her mother" said Adelaide indicating a picture on a near wall.

Both Elizabeth and Georgiana gasped. There was a painting of two girls, aged about 16. They were sitting side by side with a small dog between them. One of the girls they assumed to have been Clarissa, whilst the other could only have been Anne Darcy - so much was the picture like Georgiana, it was as though it was a mirror image.

"When was this likeness taken?" asked Elizabeth, while Georgiana moved closer to the picture to look at it in greater detail having only ever seen an image of her mother as a small girl or a married woman.

"The girls cannot have been more than 15. My husband had the likeness taken as a birthday gift. I was both surprised and delighted, and the picture has graced this wall ever since as I can see it from my bed. You may think it rather strange - but there are times I talk to the girls as though they were still here when I am lonely. You have no idea what your company means to me" said Adelaide as she reached for a hand from both Elizabeth and Georgiana.

"I have never seen my mother as a young lady" said Georgiana with tears in her eyes. "My uncle's pictures are of my mother as a young girl, and Pemberley shows her as a married woman - I had no knowledge that such a picture existed - may we show it to Fitzwilliam?"

Adelaide was delighted and said "Let him know of its existence and then remind me to show it to him next time he visits".

"We shall be sure to do that" said Elizabeth.

Adelaide then asked Georgiana and Elizabeth if they minded that the tour of the rooms ended there for that day - whilst energetic and lively for her age Adelaide was somewhat fatigued, and wished for some rest and refreshment. They made their way back to the main parlour, where some tea had been laid out. Elizabeth and Adelaide chatted quietly while Georgiana was rather lost in her own thoughts. It had been a day of discovery for her - learning more about her mother, and becoming a little more comfortable in dealing with new company.

"Adelaide, I do believe it is time we took our leave - it has been a very pleasant and interesting day." said Elizabeth.

"I have been very pleased to host you all" said Adelaide, "I do hope to see you frequently while you are in London."

"Of course you shall" said Elizabeth "and there is also the fact that Georgiana has promised to undertake some of her practice at your pianoforte"

"I shall be glad to do so" said Georgiana with a conviction and level of confidence that Elizabeth was most pleased to see.

"Well off you go now, and Georgiana, can I expect to see you in the morning?"

"Yes you shall"

After brief exchanges of polite affection, Georgiana and Elizabeth made their way back to their house. "And what did you think of our London neighbour dearest?" enquired Elizabeth of Georgiana.

"She is most delightful company - and to learn more about my mother - we are most fortunate to have such an acquaintance."

"I am sure Adelaide has a lot more to relate regarding your mother's childhood - it should be the subject of many a pleasant visit" said Elizabeth.

"Do you think that Adelaide would like it if we practiced one of the duets that my mother played with her daughter?" asked Georgiana.

Elizabeth replied "I think she would like it very much indeed -come let us start immediately - it will be pleasant to have a reason to practice - I have rather found it to be a chore until now - but with your company and a reason to practice it may even become a pleasure".

When Darcy arrived home that evening, his wife was not at the door to greet him as he had expected, but he did hear the faint sounds of the pianoforte. Upon following the sounds, he entered the room where the pianoforte was housed and beheld a sight that delighted him immensely. He found his wife and his sister at the pianoforte studiously playing a duet - however it was a piece of music that he was not familiar with.

"Ah the master of the house has arrived home" said Elizabeth with laughing eyes and a glowing smile.

"And what is this musical feast am I being entertained with?" asked Darcy.

Georgiana chimed in "It is a piece our mother used to play with Adelaide's daughter. She kindly lent us the music to study. We hope to perform it for her soon, although Elizabeth is a little unsure of the standard of her playing".

"From what I have just heard it is already at a standard to delight the most hardened audience"

"You are too kind sir, whilst my sister has maintained her volume of practice, I have been rather remiss in my practice of late" said Elizabeth.

"You are to be forgiven on that score - however it seems to have had no ill effect on your standard of performance" replied her delighted husband.

"Whilst that may be so from your perspective, I would rather be more confident in my partnering of Georgiana before subjecting Adelaide to a performance of this piece - it holds many memories for her so I do wish to do it justice as my sister can already"

"And you did do it justice - and most professionally too. It was of a great delight to Adelaide" said Darcy.

"You have always been too kind with regards to my performance - you are rather biased in your judgement with my playing" said Elizabeth.

"Others hold a similar view on your renditions - you cannot say that a judgement in your favour only lies with myself."

Posted on Wednesday, 18 June 2008

Chapter Ten

As they continued on their way to London, Darcy kept up the conversation with Elizabeth regarding the duets she had played with Georgiana in order to distract her thoughts. Georgiana and Elizabeth had delighted Adelaide (and their other family members) with many renditions over the period since the Darcy's married. Their performances had reduced in number over the recent years due to the arrival of children that had resulted in a lesser number of visits between the sisters. He saw Elizabeth's eyes grow heavy, and start to close. He chose to reflect on other events in their life, and allow Elizabeth further time to rest before they arrived.

He began by thinking about the number of times he had travelled this stretch of road - with his father and mother on the visits to London, with his father when he took him to school. The difficult times in trying to keep Georgiana amused on such a long journey. Having to suffer Caroline Bingley's inane and condescending comments when he invited the Bingley's to Pemberley for the summer. The tortuous trip when he back to seek out Lydia and Wickham. Then there had been the journeys since his marriage - delighting in having Elizabeth all to himself and there many ways of occupying the time. The noisy and joyful journeys with his young family threatening never to do it again - then agreeing to do it again a few months later. Things had certainly changed over the year. Then he smiled to himself as he remembered their first trip back to London after their marriage where the Colonel was finally introduced to Adelaide.

In the January following their marriage the Darcy's had received word that the Colonel was going to Spain for a time to join in the Duke of Wellington's efforts against Napoleon. Given the closeness of their relationship and friendship the Darcy's decided to take advantage of the few days leave he had been granted prior to his departure. The leave would not allow sufficient time for him to travel to and from Pemberley in the winter, so Darcy's decided to return to London to visit with him instead.

Colonel Fitzwilliam had entered White's after receiving a note from his cousin to say he had arrived in town, and would arrange to meet him first at their club. He arrived to find a beaming Darcy conversing with some of their acquaintances. I thought him happy before on the day of his wedding, and when I had seen him at my parents house but his transformation into one of the happiest men I have ever seen is now complete. "Darcy" the Colonel called out.

Darcy turned from the group of gentlemen he was near. "Fitzwilliam -- I am very pleased to see you" said his cousin while walking towards him. The two men shook hands and slapped each other affectionately on the back.

"I have no need to ask if you are well -- I have never seen you look better and the reason must be Elizabeth" said the Colonel.

Darcy blushed before responding "It seems married life suits me very well, my only regret is my former conduct prevented from enjoying the benefits of having Elizabeth as my partner in life sooner"

"No doubt you are continuing to make up for lost time?" Fitzwilliam said rather cheekily.

"You will not draw my censure for such a statement, as I am presently too content with my state in life, only suffice to say that you are unlikely to find any people in the world as delighted to share their time with each other as are my wife and I."

Fitzwilliam noticed how proud Darcy was when he uttered the last words. "I can well believe it. It makes quite a difference to the way many of our acquaintance view marriage - some cannot bear to be near their wives. How is it then you were able to draw yourself away from Elizabeth's companionship this very afternoon?"

"There are still matters of business to take place seeing that we decided to come to London, and I am best to focus on those tasks away from the presence of Elizabeth. I have found of late my attention is prone to wander whenever she is near. I find tasks are now achieved more expediently given that I have an excellent reason for them to be concluded as quickly as possible. Their speedy completion enables me to return home to my family. Further to that - you will be joining us for dinner I trust? Elizabeth and Georgiana are both desirous of seeing you as much as possible during your leave."

"If I would not be an imposition, I would be delighted. No doubt I can give Georgiana some conversation, as you thoughts are likely to be directed towards your lovely wife, having spent time away from her this afternoon"

"Elizabeth and I are quite conscious of the fact that we can be distracted on occasion, and make special efforts to ensure Georgiana is included in the conversation whenever we are together -- however your presence will assist in keeping us mindful of the presence of others"

"I am sure Georgiana will be pleased of some assistance. Now I would be most pleased if you enlighten me as to how Elizabeth enjoyed Pemberley, and how Pemberley has reacted to Elizabeth?"

"Both parties it seems are equally delighted in their new relationship. It seems as though Elizabeth has been there forever, as she is so well suited to the place"

"..and its master" quipped the Colonel.

"Amusing Fitzwilliam, but none the less true." A wry smile could be seen playing around Darcy's lips, however he was not to be diverted from such a favourite topic. "The staff warmed to her immediately, and dear Reynolds has been assisting Elizabeth in understanding the running of the place. Her intelligence and good sense have already attained the respect of the household. She has met and impressed many of our tenants already, and some of the landed families that surround our estate"

"I would not have expected otherwise -- your wife seems to have a knack of adapting herself to the most challenging of situations -- including you"

"It seems you take pleasure in continuing to taunt me, however your barbs will not find their mark. I am too content in my new mode of existence to take exception to such comments -- even from you."

"My how marriage has changed my aloof cousin -- people will scarcely recognise you. I can hardly believe the difference in you compared to one year ago."

Darcy did not care what others thought about him - his new found happiness meant everything. "I am quite happy for it to be so, if they do not like the man I have become then it is their loss. I refuse to be drawn back to my former way of life, and the opinions I once harboured that were associated with it."

"So be it -- then I will give up my quest for the present" responded the Colonel.

Darcy then asked "Are you ready to leave yet, or do you need to remain longer?"

"I am at liberty to leave whenever you are, it seems you are more than keen to return home"

"I thought you were giving up taunting me?" said Darcy.

"Oh how quickly I forget! Come, let us go now, and put you out of the misery of your being separated from your lovely wife" smirked the Colonel, and the 2 gentlemen left White's to return to the Mayfair house of the Darcy's.

Once they entered the more intimate environment of the carriage, the Colonel turned to his cousin and asked “What is it that is different about you Darcy? I cannot put my finger on it. You are not keeping some secret from me I hope?”

“Not at all. I think the change you observe is in seeing me content in a way I never dreamed possible. When you saw me after my marriage my happiness was evident enough, but after arriving at Pemberley I became aware of new thoughts. Having Elizabeth become part of my daily life at Pemberley was always my goal, when she visited last July it was as if she truly belonged there. But arriving back at Pemberley, and knowing that she was there to stay brought about a feeling of contentment that is quite difficult to describe. Up until that point I felt that there would be something that would thwart our planned life together. Having it become a reality was more than I ever dared hope. I suppose it is that change you now see in me.”

“I should like to experience that” said the Colonel in all seriousness.

“I am confident that one day you shall. You may then marvel as I do as to how it is possible to love someone more with each passing day. I do not know how it comes about, but the longer I am with Elizabeth I find there is more to love about her” replied Darcy.

“I am quite jealous old man, but would never deny the fact that you have certainly earned your contentment.”

Darcy responded. “One day I will say the same about you. Now we are here let us go and surprise the ladies.”

The noise of a carriage arriving in the street was heard by some of those who occupied the Darcy residence ever vigilant to the return home of the Master or guests that may have had the permission to call. On this occasion the return of the Master was in some way expected, although the time had not been pre-determined. When the carriage arrived at the Darcy residence, Fitzwilliam Darcy and his cousin were lively in alighting from the carriage -- far different from the days when there was no motivating reason for Darcy to come home thought the Colonel.

On entering his Mayfair residence, Darcy was immediately concerned as to the location of his wife. "Dillon where may I find Mrs Darcy?"

"Sir, Mrs Darcy and Miss Georgiana are in the withdrawing room at the pianoforte" replied the butler.

"Thank you Dillon, we shall join them directly, there is no need to announce our arrival we shall surprise them"

"Very good Sir" Dillon said while waiting for them to pass by.

Darcy and the Colonel made their way to the room, where they could hear from just outside the door a duet being played. Darcy knocked gently and entered. The heads of the sisters were raised towards the door where they beheld the sight of the two gentlemen. Darcy was the first to speak "Richard, we have discovered the reason for enchanting sounds emanating from this room. Ladies, may I present our cousin the Colonel?"

Elizabeth and Georgiana ceased their playing and rose to greet the Colonel. Darcy however, wished to claim the welcome from his wife first, so Georgiana went up to her cousin before Elizabeth.

"Georgiana, it is a delight to see you so well and happy! It seems to suit you having a sister." Said the Colonel.

"Yes Richard it certainly does, although not as much as it suits my brother having a wife" said Georgiana brightly.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was amazed at the growing confidence that Georgiana was displaying. "I agree with you on that score -- I have never seen Darcy looking so well"

By this time Elizabeth and Darcy had exchanged a discreet welcome. Their eyes spoke the words that their voices did not. Words seemed no longer necessary. However, Elizabeth was well aware of the welcome that was due to their cousin, and saw to it that this obligation was quickly discharged. "Richard, it is so good to see you. I trust that you are as well as you appear?" said Elizabeth.

"Very much so. I must say it is good to see you as well Elizabeth -- I can see that married life suits you just as well as it does Darcy"

"That is true enough" said Elizabeth casting a loving glance towards her husband.

The Colonel saw fit to say "Darcy here thought that I may provide some companionship for Georgiana during dinner, seeing that you are both likely to be distracted in the presence of each other's company"

"It seems we are of like minds then. Fitzwilliam, I had arranged for Adelaide to join us for dinner to perform a similar role" said Elizabeth.

"Then we are definitely of similar minds. What time is she expected?" replied Darcy

"She is expecting you to escort her here in a half hour" replied Elizabeth.

"Very good, then I shall need to make myself ready" said Darcy starting to move towards the door to call his valet.

"If you are expecting other company then I dare not impose" replied the Colonel, not wishing to upset any of Elizabeth's plans.

Elizabeth linked her arm in the Colonels. "You are certainly not imposing and I think you will be glad to make Adelaide's acquaintance. The more at dinner the merrier we will be. We were hoping that you would be able to join us we were just unsure of what plans had been set for your return to town."

The Colonel then asked "Is this the same Adelaide you were speaking of just after your marriage?"

"The very one. Our next door neighbour -- Lady Adelaide Lyell. Remember that she is distantly related to us -- and you as well for that matter" replied Darcy as he was about to leave the room. "Given the relationship she will be most keen to make your acquaintance. I daresay that you will find her most amusing as a conversationalist"

"I do recall that you said she was rather good company" said the Colonel.

Darcy then added "I should warn you though that she did know us as children -- so she may relate events of our youth that we may well have forgotten, or wish to not have made public"

The Colonel was quick to respond "Forewarned is forearmed. My mother did mention that they did become reacquainted with her and was now visiting quite regularly but did not disclose the content of their discussions.”

"Now if you will excuse me Richard, I shall just freshen up before I escort Adelaide to dinner-- she is a stickler for punctuality so I do not wish to keep her waiting" Darcy was starting to untie his cravat as moved away.

"She sounds like Lady Catherine de Burgh" said the Colonel.

Darcy could be heard to call from the hallway "Sounds like but is not a bit at all like her. I am sure you will like her enormously -- just as we do. She is bright, and her mind and wit are very sharp"

"She sounds a little like you Elizabeth" said the Colonel.

Elizabeth smiled back at him as she said "I think we are very much alike which is why we get on so well. Georgiana thinks her delightful"

"What say you Georgiana?" asked the Colonel.

Georgiana said to her cousin "Richard she is a stately and lovely lady. Her conversation is most amusing, but best of all she has been able to tell me a lot about my mother"

The Colonel was now looking forward to this evening even more. "A most valuable acquaintance by all counts -- I look forward to meeting her".

By the time a half hour had passed Adelaide was waiting in her hallway for Darcy to collect her. Stevens saw him arrive, and opened the door before he had the chance to knock.

"Darcy, right on time! I don't know what gets into some people these days. Can you explain the meaning of fashionably late? Does it mean ladies who take longer than necessary to adorn themselves with superfluous artefacts, or those who wish to be identified as doyens of fashion and have every eye at a party cast in their direction? When one says a time it is there for a reason -- how else is a poor host to organise entertainments and refreshments without creating an uproar for their household?"

"Adelaide, I know exactly what you mean. I know some people who have arrived at a function hours after it commenced Caroline Bingley immediately came into mind, and they were certainly not delayed by the volume of carriages arriving - they preferred a grand entrance. However, with such a short distance to travel we have no need for such games. Are you ready to leave?"

"Yes thank you. I am looking forward to this evening. I rarely have evening amusement, and have been quite looking forward to this -- I know you prefer residing at Pemberley but I am glad you are all back in town."

Darcy offered her his arm to escort her back. "We have arranged for you to meet another distant relative who is also joining us for dinner"

"And who might that be?" asked Adelaide.

"My cousin Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, the current Earl and Countesses youngest son."

"My, my, it would be many years since I have seen him -- what brings him to London at this time?"

"He is shortly to leave with his regiment for Spain. He was the reason we travelled back to London and did not wait until the spring. I owe him a great deal -- he was the one who was subjected to my rantings and ravings before I secured Elizabeth's hand"

"Well, I can now look forward to this evening even more. What will give me more sport -- finding out about more about your courtship, or relating events of your youth?"

"The latter is likely to give you greater amusement, and cause me greater discomfort as I am sure you recall some things that I have long forgotten -- whereas my courtship causes me no concern -- now that Elizabeth is my wife"

"Well we shall just have to see how the evening progresses!" retorted Adelaide as they made their way to the Darcy's front door.

Continue on to Next Section

© 2008 Copyright held by the author.

Reminiscences and Recollections ~ Section III

By Ann R

Beginning, Previous Section, Section III

Jump to new as of June 18, 2008
Jump to new as of June 22, 2008
Jump to new as of July 1, 2008

Chapter Eleven

It was a merry party that congregated around the Darcy dinner table that evening. After the initial introductions were made Colonel Fitzwilliam could easily see why Elizabeth and Adelaide were drawn to each other's company and had taken efforts to promote their recent acquaintance. They were very much alike in temperament and spirit and neither suffered fools or social climbers. Darcy seemed to enjoy participating in the spirited conversation, and traded comments not only with Elizabeth (as was to be expected), but with Adelaide as well. Georgiana, for her part, participated on occasion.

Richard Fitzwilliam was pleased to see Georgiana more confident in conversation in this company at least, and delighted to hear her laugh out loud as observations were discussed and dissected. The positive influence of Elizabeth was readily of apparent benefit to Georgiana. Although it had only been a month since he had last seen her he was surprised by the change in her - her growing confidence was obvious. He also saw that Adelaide provided a grandmotherly figure for Georgiana - and further broadened her exposure to womanly ways - far different from the predominantly male influence that Georgiana had been exposed to until recently.

Adelaide was a wealth of knowledge about the latest happenings and scandals in the city and they all enjoyed her repartee over the entree, main course and dessert. She had even shared a few comments about Caroline Bingley and what she had heard about Caroline's attempts to secure a wealthy suitor now that Darcy was no longer available.

They all decided to take coffee in the lounge, rather than remain in the dining room - and with only 2 gentlemen present the menfolk took their port with the ladies - not only did they not wish to be parted from the excellent company - they were concerned that they may miss out on some part of the interesting conversation. When they were all seated Adelaide decided she would add some spice to the conversation by either turning the attention of pursuing the examination of Darcy and Elizabeth's courtship, or recalling some events of Richard and Fitzwilliam's youth. For the present she was not sure which avenue to pursue, so prompted by the quizzical expression displayed by the Colonel, she decided to look to him for direction.

"Richard you seem to be holding your tongue for some reason - is there some question you wish to ask?"

"You are very perceptive Adelaide; it's just that Darcy here said that I should be on my guard in case you relate some mischievous event from my youth. I have racked my brains to recall some event that you may be aware which would cause me embarrassment but I am at a loss to come up with anything. I would like to think it is because I was such a well behaved lad, but if my mother's opinion was sought, it would have been more that I was better behaved in the presence of company".

"Hmm, it was just as well you were not present when your mother and I took tea recently - we were greatly amused when recalling your antics when you visited my house"

"I know I will regret asking this, but may I ask what antics are you alluding to?" said the Colonel with mock concern.

"This I thought you would remember being a soldier. Do you not recall the day you decided to practice fencing with my husbands' swords when you were about nine years old?"

"Ohhhh" the Colonel suddenly shuddered. "I believe I had purposely forgotten about that"

"I warned you Richard" said Darcy with a bemused look on his face.

"I wouldn't be so cocky if I were you Fitzwilliam - you were an accessory to this very incident" responded Adelaide with a grin.

"I was?" Darcy was now concerned what information was about to be relayed.

"You got off lightly, being slightly younger, and you had been obviously led astray by your cousin here" chuckled Adelaide.

"Obviously led astray?" the Colonel was now definitely on his guard.

Adelaide said "Darcy could hardly lift one of the swords - you must have lifted it for him"

Georgiana was now keen to hear what Adelaide had to say - she had always known her brother to behave in the most proper manner - to know that he was capable of mischief she found most interesting. "Adelaide, would you please relate the whole? My brother and cousin have always informed me of their excellent behaviour when they were younger - it seems they may have not related the all that actually occurred".

"Very well then." Adelaide had set her trap and was delighted that the bait had been taken. "Fitzwilliam, you were staying with the Matlocks for a few weeks as your mother had been ill for a while, and your father thought that spending some time with the male company of your cousins may be a pleasant diversion for you. Rebecca was coming to take tea with me, and brought both of you boys along with her. Being rather bored with ladies conversation, Fitzwilliam asked if you could both go to the library to pass the time. Richard - I know you prefer conversation to reading so you must have found the library a little too quiet for your liking. Fitzwilliam must have been absorbed in his book and didn't hear you leave the room to go exploring"

"And where did he go exploring?" said Elizabeth entering into the spirit of the story telling.

Adelaide went on. "They went to my husband's study. It contained a myriad of items that would interest a young boy - and still does to this day as I have left it just as it was. Models of ships, globes, maps, and artefacts - all manner of things - remind me that I must show them to you later. However, the items most attractive to young lads were the collection of swords - sabres, rapiers, cutlasses, Dirks, and a rare nimcha*. These were all collected over a lengthy period of time and some had been handed down through both sides of the family. I even continued the collection for a while after his death. They were always kept highly polished - and Stevens ensures that the custom is maintained. They were very attractive to young men who dreamt of being soldiers in battle, or knights defending the realm".

"So did cousin Richard decide to act out a dream?" asked Georgiana.

"I believe so - but only he can truly answer that" said Adelaide.

"And what exactly did they do?" asked Elizabeth.

Adelaide continued her tale with a captive audience "It seemed that they had imagined that some sort of battle was taking place in my husband's study, and had removed some of the swords from their displays and hilts. They were discovered brandishing them against an unseen enemy."

Elizabeth saw the need to defend her husband and cousin and said "Surely this was merely youthful male play?" thinking of how her Gardiner cousins had acted out battles in the Longbourn gardens.

Adelaide smiled broadly as she related the next part of her story. "Quite so, but it was how they approached the battle with their unseen enemy that was the issue. They had believed them to be hiding behind the curtains in the study, and saw fit to lunge and cut against the drapery. The effect you can only image - the curtains were cut to shreds"

Georgiana and Elizabeth stifled laughs, while Darcy and the Colonel reddened considerably. On seeing that the ladies laughed harder, and finally the gentlemen joined in knowing that while this happened long ago that there was no fear of some rebuke being tied to the tale. It was some time before the laugher subsided.

"How was this discovered?" Elizabeth saw fit to ask when she had finally recovered from laughing.

"Rebecca and I had thought things had become rather quiet - it was to be expected with Fitzwilliam, but Richard had never been the quiet sort. You will at some stage discover when you become a parent, (at this both Darcy and Elizabeth blushed) when it is quiet your suspicions are naturally aroused as it usually means that mischief is afoot. So Rebecca and I set off in search of the boys - the library was empty, so we continued our search until we heard some severe huffing and puffing going on and finally the sound of metal against metal. We followed the sounds to the study and caught them both in the act whilst the battle was in full flight".

"And how did they react?" asked Georgiana.

"Maybe we should ask them" said Elizabeth noticing that the gentlemen had finally had their memories prompted by Adelaide's recount.

"I believe we were rather mortified" said the Colonel. "The battle was immediately forgotten, and I finally could see the damage to the curtains. My next thoughts were not about how I was to explain these actions to my mother and Adelaide, but how in earth I was to explain this to my father and Lord Lyell. Of even greater concern was the likely punishment that would follow."

Adelaide did see the need to give some credit where it was due. "Your conscious did you justice Richard. You were very honest and forthright in your comments, and took pain to ensure that Fitzwilliam was not blamed. It was all your mother and I could do not to laugh - the look on your faces was a sight to behold. What you did not know was that my husband had always hated those curtains and had long been seeking a way to have them changed! He was delighted to be given a reason to have them replaced. He wasn't angry at all - just saw it as young lads having fun"

"Now you tell us." said the Colonel rolling his eyes. "My father gave me a severe lecture on the subject but neglected to relate that fact. I escaped any further punishment as Darcy was thankfully staying with us - and because of that my father did not think it appropriate to proceed beyond the lecture."

"No doubt he wanted you to learn a lesson from that situation - relating that my husband wanted the curtains replaced would have let you off the hook, and you may have seen fit to do it again to the new curtains that replaced those" replied Adelaide. "Just wait until you have a son you need to lecture regarding behaviour."

The Colonel quickly responded "I should need a wife first"

"I am glad to hear you say that - but what are you doing on that score?" Adelaide was very forward - not in an unkindly manner, but she obviously wanted to see people happy.

"It seems Darcy here took the most eligible young lady around - mind you I need to be considerate of my future being a second son I have no fortune or estate to attract any prospective bride" jested the Colonel.

Adelaide knew she a touched a nerve. "I think Elizabeth's heart was always destined for Fitzwilliam's. But there are plenty of other eligible young ladies around surely that are attractive for other reasons besides their incomes?"

"Try as I might, there do not seem many around - even less who would tolerate the life that belongs to a soldiers' wife. However, I have decided that I must marry for love - following Darcy's excellent example, but feel that I may need a change of occupation if I am ever to convince any woman to become my wife. This seems the only way of securing an income and lessen the obligation on a dowry or inheritance, and limit the amount of time I need to spend away from home” said the Colonel.

"Richard you have not mentioned leaving the army before?" responded Darcy.

"It has only crossed my mind of late. Seeing you so happy to be settled has led me to be more interested in seeking a wife. I have been giving some thought to a change of occupation, and considering whether I may pursue my interest in politics. That would at least give me some permanent base to reside, and maybe stay in one place long enough to determine if I could possibly win someone's heart." In vast contrast to the conversation that had taken place up until this time, these last comments were said by the Colonel in all seriousness.

Elizabeth listened intently to this exchange and observed something else that she had not noticed before. Georgiana seemed to be uncomfortable with the discussion around a suitable bride for their cousin. Elizabeth tried to make out the look on her face, in her eyes and her countenance and seemed to be puzzled. Then she realised - Georgiana was very much like Jane - someone whose inner most thoughts and affections were not necessarily displayed. What was making her appear uncomfortable? Could she be harbouring feelings for her cousin?

"Should you seek any introduction to the political world, I would be only too glad to offer my assistance" said Adelaide. "My late husband was well connected in political circles, and I have maintained the connections until this day. I can heartily assure you that some new blood in those circles would be most welcome from both a participants and spectators view point."

"Thank you for the offer - I shall certainly keep that in mind. I intend to make no rash decisions, it is merely something I am considering for the present" The Colonel was most sincere in his response.

"Well my dears, while I am in your company I do feel quite youthful, but as the evening grows late I am suddenly aware of my true age. Would you mind if I was to return home now?" asked Adelaide

"But of course Adelaide, there is no need to stand on ceremony with us." said Darcy.

"May I escort you home Adelaide?" asked the Colonel "I fear Darcy has spent too much time away from his wife this afternoon to be parted from her again"

"I do believe I could bear such a deprivation" said Elizabeth mockingly "but who I am to challenge the authority of a Colonel?"

"Very amusing Elizabeth! I would not consider it a challenge to my authority at all. Come Adelaide; let me see you home safely".

Once good nights had been exchanged, and Adelaide had her heavy cloak placed around her shoulders for the short walk back next door, the Colonel held onto her arm and led her down the stairs and onto the pavement.

"I meant what I said Richard, if you decide to pursue your political career be sure to let me know. Promise me that" said Adelaide.

The Colonel was touched with Adelaide's interest and concern "I promise to Adelaide, and will be sure to let you know when I have reached a decision".

"Very well then, now can you give an old lady a peck on the cheek?"

"I would be honoured madam." He leaned forward and placed a light kiss on her cheek. "I am very pleased to have made your acquaintance again Adelaide - I trust we will see a good deal more of each other"

"That we will - now off you go". Adelaide patted the arm of the Colonel and then turned to make her way into her house.

The Colonel smiled as he turned towards the carriage that waited to take him back to his barracks he said to himself - "Yes Darcy, I am very glad to have made this acquaintance!"

* to find out about a Nimcha go to http://www.nmm.ac.uk/collections/search/listResults.cfm?name=Nimcha&category=edgedweapons

Chapter Twelve

An unevenness in the road surface was enough to wake Elizabeth from her nap. She found her husband deep in thought. She stared at him for some moments until he became aware that he was being watched and then he smiled at her.

“You seemed lost in your thoughts - I had no wish to disturb you” said Elizabeth returning his smile.

“That I was - I was just remembering our first journey back to London - when Adelaide first met Richard.”

“Do you think he and Georgiana will visit with Adelaide too?” asked Elizabeth.

“I am sure they will, I believe they are still in town, and given the circumstances will remain so” replied Darcy.

By this time they had reached the outskirts of London. The Darcy's had again made good time -- the weather was in their favour, and their early departure meant that they had missed a good deal of the large volume of carriages that frequented that section of the London road later in the morning. Their arrival on London's outskirts meant that their speed would be greatly reduced as they competed with the horsemen, carriages and traders that all jostled for space on the roads that made up the country's capital.

There was much to amuse and interest the travellers -- London was at least busy and colourful on the congested roads and streets -- far different to the quiet lanes that surrounded Pemberley and Lambton. Darcy was relieved that their journey had not been impeded, and Elizabeth was thankful that the journey to London was finally over.

The Gardiners had continued to stay with Adelaide since becoming aware of her current situation. Once reconciled to the fact that she was indeed ill and in need of assistance she had finally agreed that the Gardiners should stay with her, the result being that Madeleine Gardiner had spent most days and nights with her in the preceding weeks. In the meantime, Edward Gardiner had managed his business operations primarily from Adelaide's house in between supporting his wife and spending some time with the invalid.

Smythe came and alerted Mr. Gardiner that it appeared that the Darcy' coach was arriving. He had arranged for a footman to keep watch for the arrival of the liveried carriage, so that he could ensure Mr Gardiner was alerted of their arrival at the first opportunity. Mr Gardiner hastily asked Smythe to advise Mrs. Gardiner of their imminent arrival, then made his way out of Lady Lyell's house and went to the entrance next door. He arrived just as the Darcy's barouche came to a halt. Darcy exited the barouche, and handed his wife down to the pavement. "My dearest Lizzie" said Edward Gardiner both delighted and relieved to see his niece.

Elizabeth embraced her uncle, and the gentlemen shook hands. Elizabeth asked "How is Adelaide and how is Aunt Gardiner?"

"Both are a little fatigued, but will be refreshed to know you have both arrived safely." Replied her Uncle.

"I will just remove the dust from the journey and I will be with them directly" said Elizabeth.

"You will freshen from the journey, and take some food and drink before you go to relieve your Aunt, Elizabeth". Darcy said this in a stern but not unkindly manner. Elizabeth knew from the tone of her husband's response that negotiation was not possible, and that she should submit to his request. It was reasonable and practical but not what Elizabeth wanted to do at that particular moment.

Her uncle counselled "we need no further patients at present Lizzie".

Elizabeth reconciled herself to the fact that it would still be a short while before she could finally see Adelaide. Dillon opened the door and they entered their London house.

Darcy said to his wife "I will just speak with your uncle first, and then refresh myself as well. Dillon can you please arrange for some light refreshments for us to be made ready?"

"Certainly Sir, I shall see to it immediately"

Elizabeth made her way to go up stairs to remove the dust from the last stage of their journey before going next door. She was tired from their overall journey from Pemberley, and was slow in the way she climbed the stairs. Along the staircase were portraits of the Darcy ancestors, and current members of the family including herself. She recalled that while her husband had explained their factual histories it had been Adelaide who had given them personalities. Elizabeth had taken the time to writing down all that Adelaide had related to her so that her own children could learn about their ancestors. She had whiled away many happy hours during the periods of her confinements, when her usual activities had been restricted and Adelaide had sat with her to keep her company. I am so glad that we had that opportunity, it is important that the children learn about their elder relations, and now it is my turn to sit with her.

Meanwhile, in his study, Darcy met with Edward Gardiner, who apprised him of where things currently stood, and what actions he had put in place.

"I am glad you arrived when you did. Adelaide has rallied a little knowing that you were both on your way here, but the physician advises that she is not likely to last out the week." Edward Gardiner was guarding his emotions and trying to remain factual, although Darcy could tell he was deeply affected.

"We came as quickly as we could. We have been blessed with fair weather for travelling, however the daylight hours, and journey via Hintlesham meant that we were unable to reach London last evening" replied Darcy. Then he added more quietly "How will we find her?"

"Very frail. Still lively of mind and eye, but physically she is not as she was. She has not been out of her room these past 2 weeks. She sleeps very little, and we have ensured that someone is always with her -- it is for this reason that is has been so draining on your aunt. You will both be a great comfort to us all."

"We had no hesitation in deciding to come, although Elizabeth found it difficult to leave the children."

"I can well understand it -- the separation will be for more than a few days duration. How has Lizzie taken the news?" asked Edward Gardiner.

"I believe she has still not come to terms with it -- almost as if she is doing what she knows needs to be done, but not quite fully understanding why. She should be quite herself while she is kept busy -- but how she will fare after Adelaide passes remains to be seen." Darcy said this quite despondently knowing that he would have to find a way to buoy Elizabeth's spirits until she had fully grieved.

Edward Gardner patted Darcy's arm comfortably -- "we shall all need each other's support through this -- she means so much to us all."

"That is true enough -- I find it hard enough myself to comprehend that she will not be with us for much longer" said Darcy with a sad smile.

Dillon knocked at the door of the room to announce that the refreshments were ready, and that Mrs Darcy was making her way back downstairs.

"Thank you Dillon, please tell Mrs Darcy we shall be with her directly" replied Darcy.

"Very good sir" said Dillon as he withdrew.

Darcy then said to their uncle "Come let us take some refreshment with Elizabeth." The gentlemen rose and left the study.

Edward Gardiner said as they were leaving the room "After we do that, I shall take you both to Adelaide -- she will wish to confirm with her own eyes that you are both here. Then, may I suggest that we leave Elizabeth with her for a while, whilst we attend to some matters of business. There are a number of tasks that Adelaide has bid me to do, and I require your assistance."

"I would be happy to provide any assistance I can -- we both wish to be of use" said Darcy following his Uncle.

Darcy and Mr Gardiner joined Elizabeth in the drawing room of the London house. They took some tea and light foodstuffs -- Elizabeth knew she would be watched to ensure that she ate something -- so she took a small piece of pie and some fruits. After Elizabeth had poured the tea, she finally had the courage to venture. "Dearest Uncle, I would like to know the truth about Adelaide"

"May I assume that you read the letter I sent?" Edward Gardiner knew not only of how close the Darcy's were, but also of how Elizabeth knew the ways of her uncle and aunt.

"I could not rest until I had seen it" replied Elizabeth.

"I thought as much" said her uncle in a gentle tone. "then it is as you have read. She is frail of body, but bright of eye. Her mind remains sharp but her strength is fading."

Elizabeth hesitated before she asked the next question, and drew a deep breath before asking "How long will she be with us still?" Darcy reached over and clasped one of her hands.

"The physician is loathe to speculate, but it is likely to be only a matter of days. Adelaide has reached an age not attained by many so it is difficult to be certain."

"It is then as I feared" said Elizabeth her voice faltering.

"Do you wish to take a rest before you visit with her?" asked Darcy.

"No, I do not wish to delay. I do wish to spend as much time with Adelaide as possible and I do need to relieve our aunt". Elizabeth was resolute as she spoke the words, but her pale skin and shaking hands belied her true feelings.

Darcy said softly to her "Our uncle has said he will take us to her directly. After making our presence known I will attend to some matters of Adelaide's with Uncle Gardiner -- and you can stay with her awhile. I will come and relieve you later in the evening".

"Very well then. I think it is best we go now and let her know that we are now in London".

They made their way to the house next door where they were met by Adelaide's butler Smythe.

"Mr and Mrs Darcy, it is good to see you sir -- ma'am. I hope you don't mind me saying sir, how relieved we are that you were able to come." said the most senior member of Adelaide's household.

"We were pleased that we were able to come and happy to do anything that we can to assist" said Darcy, as he shook the elderly retainers hand. Smythe had been in Adelaide's employ for over 30 years, and Darcy knew that he would be very much affected by the situation of his mistress.

"It's very good of you Sir. The physician is with her now, and I believe Mrs Gardiner is presently making her way to join you in the parlour. This way if you please." replied Smythe, directing them towards a room where they had all spent many happy hours in Adelaide's company.

They had not been in the parlour long when Madeleine Gardiner entered. Elizabeth immediately went over to her Aunt and embraced her. "Lizzie, it is so good to see you" said her aunt with tears in her eyes holding her back to look intensely at her as if she needed further visual confirmation that Elizabeth had actually arrived.

"It is good to see you too --hopefully now that we are here we can relieve you of some of the strain" replied Elizabeth after she had been released from her aunt's embrace.

Mrs Gardiner then went over to claim her hellos from her nephew. "Fitzwilliam, I thank you for coming so quickly".

Darcy embraced their aunt and said "We were desirous of coming as quickly as possible."

"And the children?" asked their aunt.

"They are settled safely with Jane and Charles --though not aware of the seriousness of the situation" responded Darcy.

"That is probably for the best. I must tell you Adelaide has been anticipating your arrival for some hours -- I would like to take you to her now, so that she will be more comfortable knowing that you are finally here."

As they climbed the stairs that led to where Adelaide's bed chamber was, Madeleine Gardiner updated the Darcy's on who else had been assisting with the vigil. "Georgiana arrived yesterday morning, and spent the afternoon with her. She is hoping to return again this afternoon, but her youngest has a slight cold. Georgiana wants to ensure that she does not pass on any illness -- so will advise us this afternoon if she can visit today. Richard has also spent a few evenings with Adelaide -- he is at the Parliament today, but will return again tonight."

"What of the Matlocks?" asked Elizabeth.

"Your aunt fell a few days ago and damaged her ankle and is presently confined to bed. She visited last week, and your uncle usually calls into visit sometime in the late morning."

"They had not made us aware of her injury" exclaimed Elizabeth with a little more agitation that was usually her style while she turned to view her aunt.

Madeleine Gardiner reached out her arm to assist in reassuring Elizabeth that there was nothing further to fear. "Your uncle assures us she is quite well, she will only need a day or mores recovery and she will visit again -- you need not concern yourself or worry on her account. It was not a serious enough injury to alert anyone."

"I am greatly relieved to hear it -- we have enough concerns at present." responded Elizabeth at little more sedately.

Finally they arrived outside of the rooms that Adelaide had occupied. Madeleine Gardiner hesitated before knocking and turned to speak in a matter of fact manner to her niece. "You will find her greatly altered Lizzie -- it is only fair I should alert you to that fact. If you close your eyes and listen to her conversation you will notice no difference at all, however physically she is quite frail, and not as robust as you are used to seeing her."

Elizabeth had calmed somewhat, and said in order to convince her aunt that she was sensible to the fact that Adelaide would not to be as she once was. "I was not expecting her to be as we saw her last -- given the circumstances we were anticipating some change."

"It is just as well that you are prepared. Adelaide is more than aware that her appearance has altered -- and she hopes not to be the cause of any distress on her account" said her aunt -- patting Elizabeth's arm all the while. Madeleine Gardiner turned back to knock on the door and called out "Adelaide, I have some visitors to see you."

"Do bring them in" called a bright voice from within. "I am in urgent need of some conversation."

Mrs Gardiner held the door back and Darcy, Elizabeth and the Gardiners entered. Darcy held Elizabeth's arm, and felt her stiffen when she saw how Adelaide actually was. The once proud and erect frame was hunched and crumpled into the bed linen. Her face was almost lost in the plump pillows that surrounded her head. But the Gardiners were right in that her eyes were still bright and twinkled with mischief, and the mind definitely alert and in need of stimulation.

"My dears, I am so pleased to see you" said Adelaide bidding Elizabeth and Darcy to draw nearer, and holding out her hands so that she could clasp theirs.

She held their hands and they noticed that the grip was not as strong as it once was. They both took turns and kissed her on the cheek, before standing back a little to continue the greeting. Darcy was relieved that Adelaide had spoken first. He could detect his wife's confusion in trying to sort out some words that would not belie her current state of mind.

"Oh Adelaide -- we came as quickly as we could. What did you mean by keeping your illness quiet?" said Elizabeth.

Darcy could now see that Elizabeth was now in control of herself and now appeared to be scolding Adelaide as if she were one of their children.

"There was no need -- it was but a trifling cold" she responded trying to downplay the seriousness of the situation with a wave of her hand.

"I believe it was a little more than that" said Darcy.

"Be that as it may -- it is now what it is. Never mind that now, I hope you have arrived to give me some excellent conversation. I have quite worn out your Aunt on that score. So who is keep my mind occupied for the next hours?" Adelaide was keen to move the discussion away from her illness and move onto more pleasant subjects.

"The duty first falls to me" said Elizabeth brightly assuming one of the comfortable chairs that was at Adelaide's bedside.

"So I will spend some time with you later then Fitzwilliam?" said Adelaide.

"That you will. Uncle Gardiner has some matters he presently wishes to discuss with me, and Aunt Gardiner is in need of a rest. I will leave you two to discuss what you like -- as long as I am not the subject matter."

"I can give you no guarantees Sir, Adelaide is in control of the topics for conversation, so I can only be guided by her" said Elizabeth playfully. "However, if you should end up being a topic of conversation, I will be sure to defend your best interests"

"Just as a dutiful wife should. Well then, we shall leave you now, and I will return again later". Darcy leaned over and gave Adelaide a peck on the cheek, and planted a kiss on Elizabeth's head.

She turned her face to his and gave him a grateful smile, and squeezed his hand to indicate that now the initial shock was over she would be able to provide the necessary support. Darcy and the Gardiners then exited the room and left the ladies to their conversation.

Posted on Sunday, 22 June 2008

Chapter Thirteen

After Darcy and the Gardiners had left, Elizabeth turned back to face Adelaide. Again Elizabeth was saved from having to speak first.

"Well my dear, you promised me some conversation and I must insist that I have it" said Adelaide. Despite her appearance, it was as if she wanted to pretend that nothing had in fact changed, and that the conversation that Adelaide expected was just as it had been at any of their previous meetings.

"Of course I will oblige you" said Elizabeth. "Do you have any particular subject in mind?

"I am quite undecided -- there are so many things I do wish to revisit, it is more a question of where to start" said Adelaide while obviously being given to introspection.

"The beginning would seem to be the most appropriate place. Fitzwilliam and I revisited our first meeting with you just before we left -- it provided us with a very pleasant recollection" responded Elizabeth.

"There now, you have prompted me about something -- that is somewhat near to the beginning -- how did you come upon my first letter to you at Pemberley? I believe that is a circumstance that we have not had the opportunity to discuss. Would you mind favouring me with that tale? I know you responded to the letter -- I kept it along with all of our other correspondence but I do not know what you thought or where you were when you read it."

"Of course not, and I do believe you are right -- I never did tell you what happened when I received my first correspondence at Pemberley" said Elizabeth "It is probably high time I enlightened you. Your correspondence has been a consistent source of entertainment and delight".

Elizabeth and Darcy had arrived at Pemberley rather late in the day, when the light was all but gone. Darcy took the necessary step to introduce his new wife to their household and then they changed out of their travelling clothes to be ready for dinner. When they returned downstairs to dine, Mr Lawrence the Darcy's steward enquired of his master whether he wished to be made aware of the correspondence that had accumulated in the time Darcy had been away. Darcy was well aware that although some of his correspondence had been forwarded to London, other items were likely to have arrived in the intervening week since his marriage to Elizabeth, and that he would need to devote some time bringing his business matters up to date.

Given the late hour of their arrival at Pemberley he instructed Mr Lawrence that he would leave all matters of business until the following morning, and that included examining the correspondence that had accumulated during his recent absence.

Late the following morning, and after a rather late breakfast Darcy saw his wife safely settled with Mrs Reynolds for her first introduction to the running of the household. Darcy meanwhile sought out his steward to receive some initial advice as to how much correspondence had to be attended to. A rather large pile of letters awaited Darcy that morning --he thought this was somewhat to be expected due to the period of time that he had been away, and no doubt including some local correspondence, invitations and the like from those on estates surrounding Pemberley -- some from curious neighbours wishing to meet the lady who had finally stolen the master of Pemberley's heart.

Elizabeth had spent only a short period with Mrs Reynolds going through the menus for the day. Mrs Reynolds had consulted her master prior to his marriage to ascertain how the mistress's duties were to be transferred to Mrs Darcy. Between them they had agreed that a gradual transition was in order rather than tax the new Mrs Darcy with all of her responsibilities so soon after her arrival and thought it best to commence with the arrangement of menus. So once this duty had been completed, Elizabeth decided to visit her husband to see how he was progressing with his matters of business. She knocked lightly and was asked to enter.

"A most delightful apparition at my door. I am glad that you have come -- I was beginning to think that these recent weeks have the semblance of a dream that many a time I believed would not come true-- it seems I will constantly need to satisfy myself that you are actually here to stay" he staring at Elizabeth with a smile on his face.

"I certainly intend to stay, but could it be that I will distract you from your matters of business?" she said playfully walking over to her husband's side. "I do hope this will convince you that my being here is not a dream?" she said embracing him.

"That will certainly do for the present." he said while gazing lovingly at her. He placed an arm about her waist. "You are a most welcome distraction, but one that is likely to ensure that other matters that requiring my attention are ignored despite my desire for diligence. I have rather an accumulation of correspondence and requests that have arisen whilst we were in Hertfordshire and London that should be attended to. As much as I rather spend all of my time with you one of our responsibilities running this estate is to ensure that all who are dependent upon us are taken care of. I only intend to see to the most urgent matters for the present- the rest can wait."

"I should never want to be the cause of you not attending to your responsibilities" said Elizabeth.

"Neither of us I am sure will allow that to happen, but you are a most welcome addition to helping me manage them" he responded smiling at her all the while. "But I have happened upon some items that may be of interest to you and may occupy some of your time while I attend to the most pressing matters" he said offering her some letters that he was proud to notice were addressed to Mrs F Darcy, Pemberley nr Lambton, Derbyshire. He then said "How about you order some light refreshments, and have it sent to the Library. I can join you there and whilst sharing tea you can inform me of your correspondents -- and any item you are at liberty to disclose."

"Very well then" -- said Elizabeth she said delighted to have something of her own to attend to. "Now remind me -- the Library is ...."

"Two doors down on your left. It is where you will also find my mother's favourite writing desk --there is some writing paper and pens should you wish to prepare any responses to your correspondents". He knew there was most likely to be a letter from Jane amongst them, but unfamiliar with Jane's handwriting, or the possible identity of Elizabeth's other correspondents he decided to wait before seeking to confirm who had already corresponded with his bride.

"I will see you shortly then" she said, leaning over to surprise him with a soft kiss on his lips. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. His wife was certainly a distraction, but one that he was most willing to accommodate.

Elizabeth left him to his own correspondence and sought out Craven, to arrange the refreshments her husband had requested. Once the tea had been arranged, and Elizabeth had found her way to the Library, she chose a window seat that afforded an excellent view of the shrubbery adorned with it's winter coat of snow, and prepared to read her letters. She easily recognised the writing of 2 -- being Jane and her Aunt Gardiner, the other left her somewhat perplexed. She decided to start with the letter that she knew had been written from Jane -- she knew the handwriting very well, however it now carried the Bingley seal. At least this one was not misdirected like Jane's last letters to this area and I can be confident that they contain no alarming news....or can I? Regardless I am glad to call this my first letter to read as “Mrs Darcy” she thought. She unfolded the parchment and settled back to read.

My dearest Lizzie,

I am unsure if this will be the first letter you receive being addressed to Mrs Darcy, (I do hope from my position as your sister that it is) but regardless of others it should at least be amongst the first.

I am sure by now you will have found your married state in life every bit as agreeable as you anticipated, and as much as I do mine. I still marvel every day that I should be blessed with such happiness, and such an excellent and loving husband as Charles, however you will smile Lizzie when I own that our close residence to Longbourn can at times be somewhat testing.

You were certainly fortuitous in your ability to escape early from the wedding breakfast with your husband to your residence in London. The wedding breakfast was most enjoyable, however the emotions from the day's events, including my parting from you and my new brother had left me somewhat fatigued, and whilst I enjoyed seeing others celebrate our joint nuptials, I became weary of the noise, and longed for a little time for some quiet reflection, albeit in the company of my excellent husband.

It did take some time for our guests to leave -- the bounteous breakfast that our mother had arranged was certainly an inducement for most to stay. Our father had to convince in no uncertain terms that it was time for our mother to leave! Therefore it came about that it was not until well after tea time that Charles and I were fortunate enough to spend some time alone -- well as alone as you can be with a household full of staff and guests including our new sister Caroline Bingley. You will blush Lizzie at such a comment from your sister, but I am sure being of similar circumstance that you can understand a certain inconvenience to the presence of others, particularly when the weather makes an escape outdoors for some privacy an impossibility, and in hosting others it is an expectation that you at least entertain your guests.

How did you find London? I hope your short visit there was to your liking, as was your more intimate acquaintance with your new London residence. I understand that you did have a dinner with our uncle and aunt and the Matlocks. Our aunt did ask me to write and ask you to relate about some shopping that you did with her-- apparently some numerous items were purchased. Am I correct in believing some dressmakers in London are somewhat short of their supplies at present thanks to the generosity of your husband?

Our mother tries to visit us constantly however, our father has been most diligent in trying to afford us some time without her presence. I own it is somewhat of a challenge for him. You may laugh when I own it is somewhat a challenge for me -- my delight in having a husband is somewhat tempered by the frequent visits of our mother, and she seems to take some form of delight of surprising us with visits at the most inopportune hour -- even a few mornings before we have had time to rise and dress. Quite out of character as she has never been an early riser.

She is still insistent upon having parts of Netherfield made over despite my satisfaction in its present state. Charles has been most tactful in pointing out that it is not a good time of year to consider refurbishments due to the weather, and it is better left until spring -- when he assures her that he will seek her advice on some matter at least, so that concern has been delicately deferred for the time being.

Our father misses you most keenly, and I believe that he is only reconciled to your relocation due to your obvious happiness with your chosen partner. No one could ever deny the love so openly displayed by you both. It is such a joy to see you so happy.

I can see you smile as you read this missive, and I assuredly understand the reason for it. Our mother has not the knowledge of the delightful felicity that can be achieved by marrying someone for the sake of love and not position or money or infatuation.

It is apparent that my love for Charles and my delight in our union has made me somewhat more open that I have been in the past, however it could be just the wish to share my innermost thoughts in writing with you dearest sister, as we have frequently had the luxury of doing in person in the past.

I do admit to missing our conversation before we retire for the evening, however I am sure that you, as I do, delight in the companionship that only marriage can bring, and it is only that thought that helps me to bear the loss of your daily company.

Charles informs me that we are to travel north to you for the New Year -- I understand our mother finds travelling such a distance at this time of year too trying for her nerves -- May I own that I am thankful that we can share some excellent company with your good selves and the Gardiners without our mothers nerves and I can finally come to know the long lauded Pemberley. You have a great advantage over me -- I have no knowledge as yet of your new residences and cannot picture you in your new surroundings.

Father is trying to determine a time he can visit with you -- he is quite desolate without your spirited conversation -- and I do believe he is desirous of visiting the excellent Pemberley library that has been promoted quite actively by our uncle and husband.

I should add that I am delighted that you should receive my first letter signed by my married hand. Please give my best wishes to your husband, and pass on my best wishes to Georgian when she arrives from both Charles and myself. I trust that as a married woman that you can find the time to write to me and tell me of your visits and news -- despite whatever notions Lydia has about married life. Until then I remain your most affectionate sister, who now signs her name

Jane Bingley.

Elizabeth sat back on the window seat and sighed. Well marriage had already changed Jane somewhat -- her even slight admission to her delight in married life was a small streak of an openness she had not previously displayed. She did note that Jane had not mentioned about Charles Bingley's outburst and banning guests from the household for a week! She looked forward to seeing her sister again for the New Year, when Bingley had promised to bring Jane north to visit and thought that she could press her sister for further information about that situation after they arrived to celebrate the New Year.

Chapter Fourteen

Having read Jane's letter, Elizabeth now turned her attention to a letter she had already determined was from her aunt. From what Elizabeth gleaned from Jane's letter, it was obvious that Aunt Gardiner had also written to Jane, but as Elizabeth had already seen her aunt in London after her marriage, she was interested what new insights she had to report.

My dearest Lizzie,

I expressed your uncle and my delight in seeing you (and Jane) so happily married and truly able to esteem your chosen partners. We were most pleased to have the good fortune of seeing you and our new nephew in London -- your loving regard for each other is clearly evident for all to see.

Both our dinner with the Matlocks and our adventure to the dress makers was most enjoyable, and I trust that your husband was pleased with your purchase. I know that he has not seen all of them yet as some are due to arrive with Georgiana so they will shortly all be safely at Pemberley.

I am not sure how many days it will take to wear each of your new garments, but I would like to know which dressmakers you like best. A number have called upon me, knowing of our relationship, to promote their services for your future requirements. You only have to write and let me know and I shall forward any orders required. I am also happy to undertake such tasks for Georgiana as well.

Are you still pleased with Derbyshire? I recall your comment about being happy to spend your whole life there -- given the circumstances it is just as well! It appears quite different in the winter, when the wild peaks are blanketed with snow, and the groves are bared of their foliage. I do recall they take on a different form of beauty. I love Derbyshire in all its moods, and look forward to revisiting its winter colours when we see you at Christmas.

Are you reading this in one of the lounges at Pemberley? I sit and ponder if you should adopt Fitzwilliam's mother's desk as your own, and if it will become your favourite room, as it was for her? Or perhaps there are other rooms in Pemberley that hold a more fond remembrance for you and your husband? I pity poor Jane that she cannot yet imagine you in your new home, however she writes me to understand that she is to visit you for New Year, so that issue shall be addressed soon enough.

Pardon my impertinence, but I can imagine how delighted our nephew is to finally have you in residence as Mistress of Pemberley. How do you like living in the house Lizzie? I trust good Mrs Reynolds will provide great assistance to you in taking up your duties. Your intelligence and good sense will stand you in good stead there, just as they did in accepting a husband best suited to your temperament. I should like to hear how you spend your days, then I can picture you moving about your rooms as you perform your daily duties.

It is fortunate that Georgiana will make her home at Pemberley, otherwise despite your married happiness; I did fear that you would miss Jane too greatly seeing that is a long distance between Pemberley and Netherfield. It is a blessing indeed to have someone else near to discuss feminine matters, and it will be a blessing for Georgiana too, now that she is at an age for coming out.

Whilst your distance from Jane may cause you some concern, I fear Jane is now feeling the closeness of Netherfield to Longbourn with the likelihood of frequent visits by your mother -- it is thankful that Jane has such an obliging nature (together with than of her husband), that they can somewhat tolerate the imposition in the short term. How long they can bear it remains to be seen. Whilst I have sincere affection for my sister Fanny, I would doubt the ability for forbearance of both you and your husband if you were faced with a similar nearness of situation!

Your cousins, as well as your uncle and I look forward to our Christmas visit, we shall write you with the details of our travel and expected arrival. We shall take extra time to travel given the time of year and unknown state of the roads and weather. We should arrive by Christmas Eve at the latest, unless there is some matter of business that prevents your uncle leaving on the intended day.

Lady Matlock did visit with Lady Lyell as she had said she would, and was kind enough to take me on her second visit. I do see why you like her so - she is most entertaining and had a great deal to say both on your marriage and the attempted interference of Lady Catherine de Burgh. In one short meeting you truly won her heart - I feel she will be a good friend and confidante to you both. She has asked me to visit again with her - I had no idea of making such an impression on such a doyen of both society and charity. I am most grateful and humbled by the introduction.

Pray write and let us know of any items that would wish brought to you from London or any other matter you wish us to follow through on your behalf and we shall be sure to take care of it.

Our fondest affections to both you and Mr Darcy

Your affectionate aunt

M Gardiner.

My dearest aunt! I shall be delighted to write to you from the desk I have a sense it will become my favourite room just as it was for Fitzwilliam's mother. She looked down at the dress that she wore that day, and remembered her aunts comments about it when it was first worn -- Your husband will be most pleased to see you in that Lizzie He had been most complimentary about the dress when she had worn it downstairs that very morning.

She was also pleased to note that Aunt Matlock had in fact introduced her aunt to Adelaide. We knew that they would get along well, and that Adelaide would immediately see her aunt's sensible approach to matters and her loving and calm nature. Elizabeth's curiosity was now aroused by the third letter that was from unfamiliar hand -- then she noticed that the seal bore the mark of Lyell. It was then Elizabeth realised that the third missive was from their newly acquainted London neighbour Lady Adelaide Lyell. She settled back to discover what Adelaide had to relate.

Dearest Elizabeth,

I pressed you for your agreement to be my correspondent as a selfish means of whiling away the unsociable hours in winter, and to ensure that I do not lose you as a most valued acquaintance. It is so refreshing to meet with those who choose their partner for life on the basis of love and respect, and who are unafraid to follow their hearts. Furthermore, I do appreciate that you are both unafraid of the unqualified opinions of others, and are prepared to follow your good judgement and follow what you believe is right and just.

I sincerely anticipate your eventual return to London so we can continue on the path we have commenced. Being familiar with Pemberley I am most interested to know how you find the house, and which rooms there most appeal to you. I can then imagine you going about your duties, when you are not spending time with your good husband. Of all its rooms the conservatory was my personal favourite as it affords the opportunity to enjoy the landscape even when the weather is so unobliging to permit an excursion out of doors.

I shall not sport with your intelligence to ask how you find your marriage suits you. It is most evident from both yours and Fitzwilliam's countenance that you are equally delighted with each other as marriage partners. Your mutual affection and esteem is evident for all to see, and it delights me to see it so. I only lament that Fitzwilliam's parents did not have the opportunity to meet and know you -- I do believe they would be greatly relieved that Fitzwilliam did not follow the shallow rules of society and chose instead to follow his heart -- just as they had done. A great many more people would find true happiness if they followed your most excellent example in marrying from the heart, instead of from social standing or the state of one's finances however necessary it may seem to be for some.

Your Aunt Matlock was good enough to introduce me to the Gardiners. I can certainly see why you both think so highly of them, and they of you. Your good aunt has promised to call again, and I look forward to cultivating this acquaintance --between those visits and those from the Matlocks it will ensure that I will have some company until I have the benefit of your next visit to London.

I truly look forward to some return correspondence from you, and of course the delight of talking to you both in person when you choose to return to your London residence. I trust then I may have the opportunity to meet up with Georgiana -- I have much to share that may be of interest in relation to her mother's younger years.

Until then, I remain your friend who wishes to be remembered most affectionately to you and your good husband

Most Affectionately

Adelaide Lyell

Well it seems all of the writers support our selection of each other as partners! Whilst it is nice to have their endorsement, it is our love for each other that matters most she said to herself.

Next moment, the door opened and Darcy entered. "What is it that has caused such a bemused smile on your face dearest wife?"

"The endorsement of my correspondents on the subject of the selection of marriage partners. All three are overwhelmingly in favour of my choice and yours" she said with a saucy smile and sparkling eyes.

"I am most delighted to hear it -- not that their opinions would have had any bearing on my decision to marry you, on that matter I was quite happy to trust my feelings from my own heart" he said then he leaned over to kiss her.

"And I very pleased that you did!" his wife responded responding to the kiss with glowing eyes.

"And whom were your correspondents?" asked Darcy.

"Jane, Aunt Gardiner, and Lady Lyell."

The first two did not surprise Darcy at all, and had suspected that they would be among Elizabeth's earliest correspondents." So Adelaide is certainly keen to keep you as an acquaintance then" Darcy uttered while he moved over towards the table where the tea had been set by the maid.

"Not only me. She is most keep to keep you as well and is most desirous of meeting soon with Georgiana. Our aunts have been to visit with her - and she was pleased to meet Aunt Gardiner." Elizabeth was in a playful mood, and decided it was time to tease her husband. She rose from where she was sitting, placed her letters on the edge of the table and began to pour their tea. "It seems Adelaide admires those who are prepared to speak their mind regardless of the views of some others".

"By that I presume she is referring to our debates with Aunt Catherine on the subject of our marriage?" said Darcy while reaching to take the proferred tea cup from Elizabeth.

"I would presume so -- although it could be argued by some that Adelaide is referring to Lady Catherine herself -....let me find her words (Elizabeth picked up the letters which lay on the table, and glanced back through them)....ah…. here it is" said Elizabeth running her index finger over the text she refers to - " those who are unafraid of the unqualified opinions of others....I daresay that we would place Lady Catherine that group who are not best qualified to understand our relationship." Elizabeth did hazard a thought that Caroline Bingley could easily join Lady Catherine, but thought it best not to say so.

"Be that as it may, she certainly does not view our relationship in the same light that we do. Although I agree it could be argued that Aunt Catherine's opinions are certainly not qualified with regards to us" said Darcy after taking a sip from his tea.

"Quite so, although I would have to say we are both best placed in a position to provide commentary on that score" she said as her eyes locked with his.

"And did Jane have anything of interest to relate?" Darcy knew that Jane was more guarded in her opinions rather than anyone else they knew, but if she did open her thoughts to anyone it would be to Elizabeth.

"Jane was surprisingly candid about how much she is enjoying her married life so far and open enough to admit that our mother's frequent visits were becoming somewhat of a trial. She did not say anything about Charles's outburst so I will have to ask her about that in the New Year. I do believe though that she is now even envious of our distance from Longbourn." Elizabeth said with a smile.

"Now, that is something I thought we would never hear from Jane, she always thinks the best of everyone. I do believe we are rather fortunate to have our seclusion -- it may prove to be inconvenient at times, but I am honest enough to admit that I am rather thankful for it at present - I wish to have you to myself" responded her husband.

Elizabeth concluded her reminiscence by adding "We continued in that vein for sometime before I reminded Fitzwilliam about his need to address some more of his correspondence. He reluctantly returned to his study, and I began to reply to my letters." Recalling this situation brought a cold realisation to Elizabeth -- that could no longer look forward to arriving home to Pemberley with a letter from Adelaide waiting to meet her. Elizabeth was in control of her emotions but was quiet of voice when she uttered "I will most certainly miss your correspondence Adelaide. I have always looked forward knowing that always arranged a letter to be waiting for me at Pemberley when we arrived home."

"There are some things we cannot change -- we have to make the most of things while they last. It is one of the reasons I was so keen to keep you as a correspondent. I missed the exchanges of letters with my daughter and Anne Darcy. My correspondence with you has been such a great comfort. I wished to make the most of it while I had the opportunity" said Adelaide softly.

"Sound advice as always, I will ensure to keep it in mind" said Elizabeth.

"It will serve you well, and provide a great source of enjoyment and at time comfort". Adelaide detected clearly the change in mood, and quickly sought to divert Elizabeth's thoughts. "How did you spend the rest of that first full day at Pemberley?"

"Ah, well after spending some further period of time with our respective correspondences and a light luncheon, I was introduced to a large number of areas of Pemberley that I had not previously had the privilege of visiting when I had seen the house before with my uncle and aunt. Fitzwilliam and I spent a number of hours visiting all sorts of rooms in the private family areas -- including the rooms he had occupied before our marriage".

"Did he show you the nursery?" asked Adelaide with a sense of purpose.

Elizabeth laughed. "Yes he did -- although I do recall it was the cause of a little embarrassment to us both, just as it did to Jane and Charles when we had the grand tour of Netherfield just before our marriage."

"I remember the nursery was the cause of some embarrassment to James as well, when he first showed me around the Lyell family estate. How did Fitzwilliam handle it?"

"He introduced the rooms to me as those he had spent time in as a babe and child, and where he had seen Georgiana grow up. He then went on to add rather hesitantly that he looked forward to the time when he could see our own children there -- but he did add that he hoped rather selfishly that it would not be too soon --he wished to keep me to himself for a good while".

"And he was able to do that for a time -- perhaps for not as long as he would have wished. James was not quite as forthright with his thoughts, but I believe his sentiments were similar to that of Fitzwilliam. He desires were thwarted somewhat when our son Thomas was born shortly before the first anniversary of our wedding -- not that it diminished his joy at out union, or on his becoming a father."

"Quite similar to Jane and Charles, though we there were a few months that transpired after our first anniversary before William safely arrived." Said Elizabeth.

Adelaide then stated in a matter of fact manner "Babies will come in their own time, and not necessarily as we had planned or wished --but a blessing always".

"Very much a blessing -- I could not imagine life without our brood" said Elizabeth with great conviction.

Adelaide was saved from having to steer Elizabeth's thoughts away from the fact that her brood was not near to her at present by a knock at the door. The hour had grown late. They had not noticed that many hours had passed while they were engrossed in their conversation. A servant brought in some broth for Adelaide, and was followed almost immediately by Darcy and his cousin Richard Fitzwilliam -- now Sir Richard, thanks to his recent knighthood bestowed thanks to his contributions to the Parliament and his previous meritorious service with the armed forces.

"I do hope we were not the topic of conversation?" said Richard as he moved over to greet the ladies warmly. "Adelaide you are looking rather pleased with your present company - Elizabeth, it is good to see you." He said leaning over to kiss them both.

"It is also good to see you Richard particularly looking so well. You escaped this round, but my dear husband was not so fortunate. I must add however it was all to the good, and nothing to be feared" said Elizabeth.

"I am very pleased to hear it!" said Darcy. He went on to say "Adelaide, I will not ask you to corroborate my wife's comments, as I do believe you will continue to stand by each other in everything -- if there is anything to be told, I am sure my wife will relate it later".

"As if I would betray a confidence --if one had been apparent in our conversation" jested Adelaide.

"There is nothing to relate, we were merely talking about some of our correspondence, and my letters that arrived at Pemberley just after we were married" said Elizabeth.

"Then I am safe for the present?" responded Darcy.

"Yes for the present. Now I do believe it is time for you to sit with Adelaide while I take a short repsite” said Elizabeth. "You will promise to call me if I am needed in the meantime?"

Richard Fitzwilliam then said “I will not staying for the present - I was dropping in to visit on my way home - however I shall return on the morrow.

Adelaide said “Then I look forward to talking with you then my dear. Please give my love to Georgiana and the children”

“I will do that. Now Darcy, it seems that it is your turn to sit with Adelaide if I am not mistaken?” said Sir Richard.

“That it is. Maybe you could take Elizabeth with you to say hello to Georgiana -it will give her a chance of some fresh air - then she can return for a rest “ Darcy said this after seeing his wife's pale cheeks. “I do not recommend you being out too long - you need your rest.”

“So you are playing nursemaid to me now husband?” said Elizaebth.

“We all need to care for each other. Now go visit and then rest a while, and you can resume your nursing later" he said gripping his wife's hand firmly, and gazing deep into her eyes. Ever mindful of their company he leaned over to kiss his wife lightly on the cheek before she turned to leave the room with Richard Fitzwilliam.

Posted on: 2008-07-01

Chapter Fifteen

After Elizabeth and Richard Fitzwilliam left he wondered briefly how he would commence his conversation with Adelaide. In the end, he did not need to solicit Adelaide as to how she would like to progress, as a request from her presented a topic that had significance for them both.

Adelaide asked that Darcy fetch a shawl for her as she realised she felt somewhat cold, and was unable to feel the heat generated by the lively fire that was constantly alight in her room. “It is in the top drawer of the bureau. The cream coloured one with the shell like pattern.” Said Adelaide. She knew Darcy would know exactly which one she meant even before he saw it.

Darcy opened the drawer and found the item that Adelaide had specified. He knew this item very well indeed. He was forced to close his eyes the moment he touched the garment. Taking a deep breath he lifted the shawl from the bureau drawer, and returned to Adelaide with the shawl draped across one arm.

Adelaide could see by the look on his face that he was deeply affected, and so it was with a gentle voice that she said to him “It still has that effect on you”.

Darcy replied “Yes it does. Ever since I made that connection between you, and that shawl and the night my mother died, I only have to touch it to be taken back to the library at Pemberley when I was but a lad.”

Adelaide's first visit to Pemberley after Elizabeth and Darcy married was in the July after they met. She returned to Pemberley with the Darcy's who had recently spent some time in London. The Darcy's had decided to give a ball at Pemberley - to those invited from the surrounding area it was to celebrate the summer to Darcy and Elizabeth however, it was to celebrate the first anniversary of her visiting Pemberley which they saw as the true starting point of their reconciliation that led to their marriage.

The Bingleys, Gardiners, Adelaide and Colonel Fitzwilliam had arrived a few days before the anticipated event, and they all enjoyed their social time together riding about the park, having picnics on the lawn, and leisurely dinners and evening entertainment.

Towards the end of one such evening, Adelaide asked if Darcy could fetch her shawl from her room. The evening had grown slightly cool, but not cool enough to warrant anything heavier than a shawl. Darcy had gone to Adelaide's rooms, and asked the maid for a shawl, and as soon as it was placed in his hands he felt a shock. It was not a shock that one occasionally received from garments rubbing together, but a shock of recognition, that unlocked thoughts he had long ago chosen to forget.

Elizabeth could detect a change in his countenance when he returned and passed Adelaide the shawl that had been requested, but could not put her finger on the reason. Darcy made every attempt to appear part of the evenings' festivities but Elizabeth was not reassured and knew instinctively that something was amiss. Rather than disrupt the evening by discreetly seeking an explanation for his change in mood - she tried valiantly to put it aside until they retired for the evening and she could speak with him in confidence.

When all of their party decided it was time to call an end to the day, Darcy escorted Elizabeth to their rooms where she finally had the courage to ask “What happened when you went to retrieve Adelaide's shawl?”

“Nothing of consequence, but there is a question I must ask Adelaide before she retires” he said distractedly. Seeing Elizabeth's puzzled face he quickly reassured her “Really there is nothing wrong - the shawl seemed to unlock a memory, and Adelaide is the only person who can verify if my recollection is correct”.

Elizabeth could see he was distracted, and despite a strong urge to accompany her husband she felt this was one matter he needed to settle alone.

Having left Elizabeth in their chambers, Darcy moved quickly to Adelaide's rooms in order to see her before she retired. He knocked at the door and her maid answered. He asked “Can you ask Lady Lyell if I may speak to her about a matter before she retires? It is rather important.”

The maid left him at the door, and returned a few minutes later “She is happy to see you now Sir, this way if you please” and the maid led Darcy into the lounge room that adjoined Adelaide's bedroom at Pemberley.

“What brings you to me at this hour Fitzwilliam? I thought you would wish to retire?” she asked.

“I had wished to retire however I cannot rest at present until I ask you a question that is concerning me - it relates to the night that my mother died.” Said Darcy turning to pace the floor with his hands linked behind his back.

“What is your question?”asked Adelaide not unkindly.

“Were you in this house when she died?”asked Darcy hesitantly stopping while the question was asked.

“Yes I was” said Adelaide.

Darcy was not surprised by her answer. It gave him the confidence to ask more. Then Darcy swallowed deeply before he asked his next question “And were you the person that comforted me in the library?” He then he stopped and looked Adelaide square in the eye.

Adelaide gently responded “I was that person - may I ask what has led you to ask that question?” She motioned to Darcy to come and sit beside her as his pacing indicated his distress and in turn was unsettling her. He took her cue and placed himself next to her - half sitting with his body towards her. It was as if he could not decide whether to stay or whether he was preparing himself to run away and not hear what Adelaide had to say.

“That shawl, your shawl.” Said Darcy waving his hand that indicated the one that was still around Adelaide's shoulders. “I went to retrieve it from your room. Once I touched it I felt an immediate connection. All at once I was a young lad, with my head buried against someone, sobbing. My fingers at that time must have rested on that shawl. As soon as I touched it I knew.” Darcy seemed quite distressed relating this, bowing his head as he did so.

Adelaide spoke gently but resolutely when she replied. She took one of his hands and patted it in an act of reassurance. “Yes I was here when your mother died, so was my husband James. Once your father told you that she had passed you fled from the hallway and no one could find you. James stayed to remain with your father to and I went off in search of you. Everyone looked all about the house and gardens and could not find you anywhere - Pemberley certainly has many places to hide. “ Darcy smiled at Adelaide and weakly nodded in agreement.

She continued “Then, I thought of the library, always one of your favourite places, and so I went in search of you there. Although the servants had already checked you must have remained silent when they looked hoping not to be found. When I opened the door I heard muffled sobs. Taking a lamp from the hallway I entered, and eventually found you under a desk that your mother preferred to use. I coaxed you out and eventually I managed to settle you on the lounge. You rested your head on my lap, and I covered you with this shawl and gently patted you until you ceased your crying and fell asleep. You must have held an edge of it with your fingers. I had no wish to disturb you once you were settled. James found us there the following morning.”

“I never recalled that before now, it seemed that I need to express my gratitude to you yet again.” Said Darcy quite overcome. “Why is it that I did not recall your presence here at that special time?”

“Our memories can play tricks on us. That day has particularly painful memories and sometimes, we place those to the side hoping to forget the pain associated with them. Sometimes they come back - when we are better able to cope with them, triggered by something associated with the event. Senses can be very powerful - sometimes it is smell, sometime sound - for you it seems to be touch.” Explained Adelaide.

“But why now?” said Darcy. “We met again many months ago - why has it taken this long before the memories came back?”

Adelaide replied to Darcy's question as best she could “When we first met again you were newly married - it was only right that your thoughts were dominated by the joyous thoughts of your marriage and your wife. Now you are more settled in your married life, it could be that now is the right time to deal with painful memories. This could have been brought about by the fact that I am now in this house - when we were together before this it was always in London.”

“It seems all so fantastic - the memories of that day now seem so fresh, yet before this when Georgiana asked me for any of the specifics regarding our mothers death I have always been at a loss to relate anything at all.” Said Darcy - still quite in awe of what had come to light.

“Do not try to find reason in all of this - everything happens in its proper time. Now is not the time to make sense of why a shawl should bring forth such powerful memories - it is what it is - do go and try and get some rest - Elizabeth will be concerned for you.” Said Adelaide.

“You are quite right - she could detect that something was amiss. I have delayed you from your sleep long enough. I am so sorry to have disturbed you so.” Said Darcy concerned about interrupting Adelaide at this late hour.

“Think nothing of it - I will read a while yet - as I get older I find it more difficult to sleep - you have not disturbed me at all - I am pleased that my memory is useful for something”. Adelaide said by way of response.

“More than that - you are a very special person to this family in more ways than one” said Darcy with a slight smile. He leaned over and kissed Adelaide on the cheek. “I shall disturb you no more this evening and now it is probably high time I put my wife's mind at rest.”

Having confronted this painful memory, he knew that it was time to share it that evening with his wife. When Darcy returned to their chambers he knew that Elizabeth would not pressure him for an explanation, but also knew that she would be most curious as to what had drawn him to Adelaide's rooms at that hour and why the matter was important enough that it could not be left until the following morning.

He entered their bed chamber, and instead of seeing her sitting in one of the chairs quietly reading as he had expected, she was out on their balcony with her head lifted towards the stars that were evident in the summer sky. The moonlight bathed her form. Her hair shone and he smiled and silently gave thanks that he now had Elizabeth to share not only the joys that life would bring but for her to be there to support him through times of trouble. She turned towards him when she heard the door open.

Although Elizabeth was relieved to see Darcy look calmer and more in control of himself which could only be the result of his talk with Adelaide, she knew her husband well enough to leave the first words to him. So she remained silent - instead gracing him with a loving smile and glowing eyes.

For this display of affection and understanding he was extremely grateful. He found it difficult to know what to say. In the end he just said “Elizabeth…” and opened his arms seeking her embrace. She came to him and he enveloped her, crushing him to his body and burying his face in her hair. They remained this way a few minutes, before he pulled back then took her hand saying “Come and sit with me and I will tell you all.” He sat and drew her to him, placing her on his lap. He knew he needed the comfort of her presence in order to relate what had transpired.

“I know you were concerned earlier by my change of countenance - you deserve an explanation” he said quietly stroking her hair.

“I am only troubled when I see you so noticeably distressed and that there is no obvious explanation for it. I hate to see you so.” She replied placing her head on his shoulder. He responded by wrapping his arms around her which gave them both greater comfort.

“Well the cause of my distress seems unusual, it was in fact the shawl that Adelaide had asked me to retrieve from her rooms - as soon as I touched it I recalled the day my mother died.”

Elizabeth hardly knew what to say, choosing a gentle “oh” before adding gently “what does Adelaide's shawl have to do with that day?”

Darcy then related the substance of his conversation with Adelaide, and how he had realised upon touching the shawl that it was Adelaide who had provided him with comfort. He added that he could not have rested until Adelaide had either confirmed or denied what he had recollected.

Tears formed in Elizabeth's eyes as her husband told her the tale. She found it easy to imagine him transformed back into the boy who sought solace in the Pemberley library, and had no difficulty in understanding how Adelaide of all people would know where to find him and how to give him some solace.

He finished by saying “But now you are the one who is my greatest comfort. Adelaide seems to think that I can now deal with some of my more painful memories now that you are at my side.”

Elizabeth was touched. It was yet another example of how their lives and souls were totally intertwined, and grew more so every day. “I am so glad we can be that to each other - I am happy to listen any time you need to talk - or even just to sit with you if that is what you need.”

“I need you Elizabeth - now and forever.” He said then he kissed her gently, then rested his forehead against hers. They remained there silently for a few moments before he posed his next question. “I do need your advice on this though - do you think I should relate what I now remember to Georgiana?”

“Maybe at some stage, but not now unless she observed any change in your mood this evening. I did not notice that she detected any change - more than likely due to the fact that she is anticipating the ball tomorrow night. I feel it would be best that she is not distracted with sad memories at this time. The right time will eventually present itself. I would perhaps seek the assistance of Adelaide when you tell her, but for now I am happy enough that you seem settled in your mind”.

“Not only my comfort but my wisest counsel. I am certainly more settled than I was an hour or two ago. Come - we have a busy day ahead of us tomorrow - it is high time we achieved some rest ourselves.

“The right time did present itself shortly afterwards, so we could explain it to Georgiana together. But as we both could have predicted Elizabeth was most understanding and supportive, and Georgiana appreciative of the additional information.”

“I would very much like Elizabeth to have this shawl” said Adelaide. “it has such a strong connection to our association. Can you see to it that she gets it when I am gone?”

Darcy was initially alarmed to hear Adelaide speak with such certainty of her own passing, but recovered himself enough to say “Of course - she would be most honoured to have it. It has many memories linked with it given that you have worn it at so many occasions connected with this family.” Said Darcy who was very touched at the gift and what it implied.

Adelaide had gone to great pains over the previous years to wear the shawl at some happy occasions associated with the Darcy family - christenings, Georgiana's wedding, and other anniversaries, primarily so that Darcy's memories with the shawl would not only be locked in with the sad occasion of his mothers' death. Darcy acknowledged Adelaide's efforts on this score, and was extremely touched with Adelaide's request that ownership of the shawl should transfer to Elizabeth.

“I shall not inform her of that for the present - I think it is best to wait to tell her that” he said by way of acknowledgment.

“I quite agree - but you will see to it? I will rest easier knowing that is being taken care of. As you will come to know through your work with Edward Gardiner my bequests are rather general. You will find my more specific bequests are of a personal nature - things like this shawl, certain items of jewellery, furniture, artefacts and artworks. The sentimental things are far more important to me -and it is those items I wish to see safely settled upon those I love best.”

Darcy reassured her “We shall see to it that your wishes are carried out - you do not need to worry on that score.”

They were disturbed from further conversation at this point by a knock at the door.

Chapter Sixteen

Instead of requesting an entrance of the person knocking, Darcy rose and went to see who had made their presence known. He was rewarded with the sight of his wife.

“Ah, so you have added the role of personal assistant to your duties I see” said Elizabeth brightly.

“Yes madam it would seem that this is the case. May I ask why you are not resting as requested?” teased her husband noticing that Elizabeth still appeared a little tired.

“I have come to see how our patient fares and to do some further nursing, if I am permitted to enter.” Said Elizabeth indicating that she intended to push past him if he refused her entry.

Darcy nodded by way of acknowledgement, and stood back to allow her to sweep past him. He was torn between allowing Elizabeth to spend more time with Adelaide and forcing Elizabeth to take her own rest - he knew that the requirements on their strength would be taxed over the coming days. His only solution was that they both stay for the next period so he could keep watch and ensure she did not over do things.

Elizabeth entered Adelaide's bedchamber and said “So has my husband been keeping you amused?” rather playfully.

Given the levity in Elizabeth's tone of voice neither Darcy or Adelaide were prepared to disclose the actual content of their conversation lest they dampen Elizabeth's spirits. As a result Adelaide answered her question lightly “You could not expect anything less - he has satisfied some of my need for conversation but I am in need of more. How have you spent your time since you were last in the room?” Adelaide saw this as the easiest way of diverting Elizabeth's attention from their melancholy topics.

“Well, I saw Georgiana only briefly. She sends her love. Young Nathaniel is much improved, so she will likely visit with us on the morrow. I came back via our house to arrange some items so that we can spend the night here, penned a few letter to let others know that we were in town, then rested for a couple hours. I have also seen to some sustenance - a meal for us all will arrive shortly.”

“You were able to do all of that?” asked Darcy.

“Have you happened to look at your pocket watch to see what time it is? Asked Elizabeth.

“No, but I shall do so now.” Darcy removed his pocket watch from his vest and was alarmed to see how much time had actually passed since his wife had left the room. “Well then it is much later than I thought. We must have lost track of time while we were talking Adelaide.” Said Darcy. “No wonder I was starting to desire some food.”

“I am not surprised at all” Adelaide responded. “Now Elizabeth - whom exactly did you tell that you were here?”

“I sent notes to Charlotte and Caroline. They were the most important as we did not have time to tell them of our coming to London. Others can wait until later” Said Elizabeth.

Darcy saw fit to add jovially “I do remember a time when you did not consider the former Caroline Bingley a close friend.”

“That was many years ago. It has been some time that I have been very happy to claim her as a sister and a close one at that.” Elizabeth replied quite smugly.

“That night of your ball in London seemed to change things on that score” said Adelaide.

“Your presence certainly helped matters Adelaide” said Elizabeth.

“That was just after Kitty's first visit to Pemberley” said Darcy.

“You mean Catherine” said his wife.

“You know that we always consider her Kitty, regardless of what her husband prefers. She travelled back with us to London so she could attend the ball as well. What an evening! I do believe that evening also afforded me the best laugh I ever had” said Darcy.

Elizabeth and Georgiana spent the end of Elizabeth's first winter at Pemberley planning Georgiana's London coming out ball. It was also to serve as Elizabeth's introduction to wider London society. During the Darcy's few brief visits to London since their marriage they had purposely avoided large social events despite receiving many invitations. Darcy still preferred firstly to keep his wife to himself, and secondly was only keen to gradually introduce her to those he knew would appreciate his wife's beauty, wit and talents without having to resort to the shallow censure evident in so many of the social elite. His plan of gradually introducing Elizabeth to his circle of acquaintance would then provide her a support network of sorts when they later attended balls, assemblies and larger dinner parties in London.

He could not avoid their interaction with society forever, and so recommended to “his girls” that Georgiana's coming out ball also be the occasions for Elizabeth's introduction to wider society. Elizabeth was happy to have Georgiana as the reason for the ball being given, and Georgiana was relieved that not all of the focus would be on her. They were also delighted that the Colonel was back in England and therefore able to attend the coming out of his cousin and ward, and his availability was a prime factor in determining the actual date that was eventually set.

Darcy very wisely suggested that Adelaide was drawn into the planning for the event. Her knowledge and position within London society would not only ensure that every social obligation would be acknowledged without causing offence to any quarter, and having someone based in London to advise and assist with planning would ensure that they did not have to travel to London until a couple of weeks before the big event. As a result numerous letters flew between Adelaide's house and Pemberley, with other letters and instructions relayed to the Darcy's London household.

Adelaide requested that some of her acquaintances be allowed to assist, and so it transpired that Lady Neill, and the Right Honourable Mrs Emmerton-Walsh, (whom Darcy and Elizabeth had initially seen the church in London, and formally met at an afternoon tea that Adelaide had hosted) joined Adelaide in the planning of the event. Darcy and Elizabeth did not begrudge them the opportunity for involvement and derived some amusement from the letters that portrayed the obvious enjoyment the ladies in London were drawing from their preparation for the ball. It seemed from the level of their planning that they were doing little else other than planning and plotting and that the event was absorbing all of their time.

When the possibility of Georgiana's coming out was raised by Adelaide when they were in London the previous January, Adelaide owned that she did not usually attend social events of that nature, and had in fact not attended one in the five years previous, but stated quite firmly that she would definitely not miss this occasion. It seemed her close acquaintances in Lady Neill, and Mrs Emmerton-Walsh were of a similar opinion. Due to their social standing Adelaide, Lady Neill and Mrs Emmerton-Walsh continued to receive invitations to every major social event in London that occurred throughout the year, but they were sent knowing that they would not be attending. The fact that they all chose to appear at this event would send a very clear message to society - that not only was Elizabeth to be an accepted member of elite society, but that if any disparaging comments about either her, her family or her relationship with Darcy were made by anyone, that person and their family would be henceforth ostracised, and invited to no further major social events.

Darcy was guided by Adelaide as to who should be included on the guest list due to her superior knowledge of London society, but Darcy insisted on having the final say before any invitations were sent out. There were some people who he did not want to attend, and wished to ensure that some friends and acquaintances from Cambridge were included who were usually deemed outside of accepted social circles. He did agree to listen to any of Adelaide's arguments where he disagreed with her recommendations as he was well aware that if anyone in society that appeared to be slighted by not receiving an invitation that Elizabeth would be given the blame. This was the last thing Darcy wanted to see happen.

In addition to those Adelaide proposed be invited from society, the Darcy's insisted that the Gardiners, Bingleys (including Caroline), and Hurst's received invitations - with Caroline and the Hurst's invited out of deference to Charles and Jane rather than any personal preferences of the Darcy's. Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh were also to receive invitations but it was fully expected that they would choose not to attend as the Darcy's were still not reconciled with Lady Catherine. The Matlocks were automatically invited not only due to their position in society but in their position as uncle and aunt to them all, and Elizabeth was delighted she could count on a few allies on what she thought would be a difficult rather than enjoyable evening where every aspect of her appearance and arrangements were under scrutiny.

They travelled to London some 2 weeks before the ball was scheduled to take place. This was to allow time for the final fittings for garments, and the necessary ancillary purchases required to complement the ladies outfits. Adelaide participated in all of the shopping trips taken by Elizabeth, Georgiana and Kitty (who had travelled with the Darcy's from Pemberley). They were also accompanied by Mrs Gardiner, and Lady Matlock. The ladies enjoyed the liberties afforded by Fitzwilliam Darcy who insisted upon Georgiana, Kitty and Elizabeth purchasing more that was actually necessary for the event - and the other social events that were to follow.

Eventually the day for Georgiana's coming out ball arrived. The Bingleys had arrived to stay with the Darcy's a few days before the ball was to take place. Both Jane and Elizabeth were rather relieved when Caroline Bingley decided that she would stay with the Hurst's rather than join the group staying at the Darcy's London house - this allowed for the Darcy's and Bingley's to enjoy some relaxing time together before the social obligations overtook their daily schedules while Kitty had kept Georgiana company, preventing Georgiana from being totally overcome with nerves for the coming event.

The planning undertaken by Adelaide, Margaret (as they now called Lady Neill), and Rachel (as they now called Mrs Emmerton-Walsh) was exemplary. Their taste and discernment ensured that this would be an event to be talked about in the most positive and envious terms for many years to come. Despite Darcy's distaste for all things that embodied the social elite, he would not have wished for this particular event to be regarded in any other way - and for this he was truly grateful to the ladies - beyond a level where words could truly display his thoughts and feelings.

Everything had been planned to a level of detail and precision, and everyone involved directly with the evening knew how much was actually riding on the successful realisation of the plans. All that remained was for the guests to arrive, and the celebrations to commence.

Guests had been asked to arrive at 8pm, and by 8.10pm there was a line of carriages lined up outside of the Darcy's London residence ready to deposit their guests at the entrance, and await their introduction. Due to the foresight and planning of the “ball committee” as Darcy and Elizabeth came to call Adelaide, Margaret and Rachel, and the invitations extended to those closest to the Darcy's there were at least some people present to support them when the first guests began to arrive.

Kitty remained upstairs with Georgiana who was set to make her grand entrance at 9pm. Together Kitty and Georgiana hid behind some of the curtains on a balcony that overlooked the ballroom, and watched in awe as London's finest arrived to partake of the festivities.

Darcy somewhat surprisingly was quite relaxed about the whole event - he was well aware that no detail had been overlooked, and that everything was as it should be. His pride in his wife and sister knew no bounds.

Elizabeth looked magnificent in her new dress of deep burgundy silk, her hair crowned with a Darcy family tiara. Darcy had purchased her a new necklace of diamonds and rubies with earrings to match perfectly complementing her attire. He had wanted her to have some jewellery of her own, and saw it as a way of celebrating the occasion. Adelaide had given Elizabeth a diamond and ruby bracelet to complete her outfit. Despite her knowledge that all was in order Elizabeth could not relax - she was concerned that she would present an image that would not support the faith that not only her husband, that her family and friends had placed in her.

Upon arriving, guests were astounded with the displays of flowers, candles and crystal that were evident once they had been announced and then entered the ballroom. A chamber orchestra entertained the guests until the dancing commenced in earnest.

Caroline Bingley arrived with the Hursts, and was greeted in a polite (but not effusive) manner by the Darcy's and Bingley's. Caroline quickly left her sisters and attached herself to her friend Lady Sarah Whittimore - another single woman of good fortune. Both Caroline and Lady Sarah were trying to find a wealthy match - a man they could tolerate who would keep them in a style to which they had become accustomed and afford them the social connections which they both craved.

Georgiana eventually made her grand entrance. She was dressed in an elegant silk dress of pale blue, that had been embroidered with crystals around the bodice and hem. The decoration was subtle, yet when the lights of the ballroom caught the facets of the crystals the effect was as if the entire dress carried tiny candles. Darcy had purchased Georgiana a necklace of pearls and diamonds as a keepsake, and Adelaide had insisted on purchasing matching earrings and a bracelet. Crowning her golden tresses was Lady Anne Darcy's own tiara. Georgiana's two guardians walked up the stairs to escort her to the floor, Darcy taking one of Georgiana's hands, and the Colonel took the other. As joint guardians, it had long been decided that this was the most appropriate entrance for her to make.

Georgiana's first dance was with the Colonel, so that Darcy could dance this particular dance with his wife. For the second dance they swapped places. The Colonel and Darcy had the insight to claim a dance each later on Georgiana's card - if they had overlooked this particular thing they would have missed the opportunity for dancing with her again. As an eligible heiress with a large fortune, she was not only sought after by those who admired her appearance and disposition, but also by those families who were in need of an injection of funds. All of Georgiana's family and closest friends were aware of these facts and kept close guard on who did and did not dance with her. Darcy, Bingley, and the Colonel had made an arrangement with Georgiana and Kitty that if they were approached by someone they did not wish to dance with, they could claim that they had already promised a dance to one of the gentlemen in their family - and their relatives would gallantly come to their rescue.

Keeping closest watch of all were Adelaide, Margaret and Rachel who held court on the edge of the dance floor. They monitored everyone and everything. Darcy knew at the end of the evening he could rely on them for a full report on what had taken place in every area of the household throughout the evening.

In another area of the room, some other ladies were keeping watch on the ball. Caroline and Lady Sarah Whittimore were observing certain members of society in addition to watching for any men that they could consider as appropriate partners in life. Lady Sarah turned to Caroline Bingley and said “I do believe that is Darcy's wife that is standing with Lady Adelaide Lyell, I wonder how she knows her?”

Caroline looked to the other side of the ballroom, and saw Elizabeth move to stand near a group of older women. “You mean Eliza? I am not familiar with the lady standing with her” replied Caroline.

Lady Sarah responded “You mean you are not aware of the formidable Lady Lyell, the Countess of Stradbroke? She is one of the most fashionable people in London. She has not been at a social event in years! Do you mean to tell me Caroline that you are well acquainted with Mrs Darcy? Caroline why did you not say so before?”

Caroline Bingley was stunned. She had gone out of her way to keep her association with Elizabeth quiet fearing being ostracised by the social elite. Eliza was after all a country girl without fortune even if she was now married to Darcy. Caroline was fixed in her mind that an association with Elizabeth Bennet, alright Elizabeth Darcy was one to disregard and ignore, and here was one of Caroline's friends actually pleased with such a relationship? In the end she felt it necessary to utter “Well, Eliza Darcy's elder sister is married to my brother, so I could say that we are even related.”

“And you have kept such an association from me - Caroline you are too cruel! What we could have made of this before now!” Lady Sarah's eyes expressed her surprise at her so called friends lack of disclosure of such a relationship that both could have used to their social advantage.

Although Caroline had never regarded her acquaintance with Elizabeth in the most positive light, still seeing her as the reason she did not gain Darcy as her husband she was not silly enough to ignore such an opportunity. As a result Caroline was smart enough to choose her words carefully and not belie her true thoughts. “Well one does not like to take advantage of such situations” Caroline was being coy, trying to cover both her reason for not promoting such a relationship and her abhorrence that such a relationship with Elizabeth actually existed.

Lady Sarah then asked “Do you think it possible that you could ask your sister to introduce us to Lady Lyell?” When it came down to taking any opportunity for social advancement Lady Sarah Whittimore was just as scheming as Caroline herself.

With this request Caroline's mind was slightly confused- she hardly knew what to say. By refusing the request she was denying the relationship, by accepting the challenge she exposed herself to possibly being slighted by Elizabeth. In the end, she reasoned that in such a social situation Elizabeth would have to be at least polite, so Caroline decided for the sake of her friendship with Sarah, and possibly chance of further social advancement, that it was worth taking the chance. While not confident, Caroline said to her friend “Of course- I would be happy to introduce you to Eliza, and maybe then she can introduce us both to Lady Lyell.” Caroline then took her friends arm - more for moral support than affection, and the pair made their way to where Adelaide and Elizabeth were standing.

© 2008 Copyright held by the author.

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