Handsome Men Are Habit Forming -- Section VI

Teg

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Chapter 32 ~ Three Getting Ready

Posted on Tuesday, 19 March 2002

"Welcome home, sir"

"Thank you, Hopkins." Darcy handed the man his hat while another servant divested him of his coat.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam is in the drawing room, sir."

"Ah, yes." Darcy paused, his gaze sweeping warily over the furnishings in the front hall. "How soon until dinner is served?"

"Thirty minutes, sir."

Darcy clapped his hands together and rubbed them. "Excellent! Time enough to wash and change. We shall be down in time, Hopkins."

"Very good, sir."

Darcy and Georgiana made their way up the wide staircase and down the hall to their respective chambers. Within minutes, kettles had been brought up and the washbasins were full of steaming water. By the time Darcy had finished washing, his valet had laid out his dinner attire. The man was well acquainted with his master's preferences, even though that man's mind of late seemed a trifle preoccupied to fully appreciate the care taken in the selection of his daily wardrobe. Darcy dressed quickly, his thoughts occupied not with warm thoughts of his lady but with imaginings of what was being readied in the kitchen. It was as he was observing the tying of his cravat in the mirror that Darcy finally noticed it. He stared at the reflection, not quite comprehending what was amiss until it suddenly became clear.

There was a portrait hanging where before there had been none.

Scarcely had his man finished the final knot when Darcy spun on his heel to examine the portrait and its location in his bedchamber. He knew better than to ask fruitless questions. There was no doubt as to how the painting had come to rest where it had. What remained to be determined was what other surprises awaited him.

The expression on Georgiana's face when she rejoined him at the top of the stairs confirmed Darcy's suspicions that his sister had also encountered something unusual. Mouths set with determination, they entered the drawing room to confront their cousin.

"Ah!" Fitzwilliam cried, looking up and hurriedly putting aside the book he had been pretending to read. "You have made it after all."

"Surely you harboured no doubts," Darcy blandly countered.

"Your charming lady and her family arrived in town yesterday afternoon," Fitzwilliam said as he came forward to take Georgiana's hands and kiss her cheek. "You look positively lovely, Georgiana. Impossible to imagine you have been travelling all day."

"Flatterer," she replied but could not help smiling. "I must thank you for finally removing my old doll from the tree, Richard, but it really wasn't necessary to bring it to London with you."

"You seemed so distraught at her fate in the branches that I had to put your mind at ease," he smoothly explained.

Darcy raised a sardonic eyebrow. "What, pray tell, is your justification for the portrait in my room? I can assure you that our uncle Percival's likeness inhabited a quite satisfactory location, in my opinion. Removing it to the confines of my bedchamber was not at all required."

"Do I detect a note of disapproval in your tone, Darcy?" Fitzwilliam was all offended innocence. "I merely thought a reminder of the attitudes of our less revered family members would have amused you... in light of the current situation."

"If by that you refer to his often publicly announced criticisms on unions between the classes I can only say you are sadly mistaken in your estimation of my sense of humour." Darcy's tone didn't waver.

Fitzwilliam's expression altered slightly. He seemed to be contemplating the wisdom of his actions. Perhaps he had miscalculated? "I am sorry if I offended you, Darcy. You know I meant it in jest."

Darcy remained silent for a few seconds more, staring unblinking at his cousin. As Fitzwilliam began to appear genuinely concerned, Darcy's face relaxed into a gratified smile. "One of these days you are going to go too far and something unexpected will come of it."

"You think so?" the Colonel smirked.

Darcy shook his head in resignation. "Let's go in to dinner. I am ravenous!"

It had been a very long ride from Pemberley to Netherfield for Caroline Bingley. Too many thoughts coursed through her mind during the hours on the road. The shock of hearing Darcy announce his engagement to Eliza Bennet, that upstart country girl, had compelled her to silent contemplation. How could she have so wrongly misinterpreted his intentions? The fact that he had waited until the departure of his aunt and cousin Anne was secured did at least confirm in her mind that disapproval from that quarter was guaranteed. Strangely enough, however, this did not disturb her as much as she had expected. After so many years of confidently, albeit unsuccessfully, pursuing Darcy, Caroline had believed such a defeat would have devastated her. It was an odd relief to find that his engagement had no such effect. Granted, this did not suggest any approval in his choice of wife! This did have the advantage of allowing Miss Bingley to consider other alternatives, however. One very attractive alternative would be following them to London in a few days, as well.

It had been many years since the cook had been privileged to prepare a meal for such exalted company. Not since old Mr. Darcy passed into the other world had the kitchen seen such activity. The young Master and his sister rarely spent much time in London and never entertained any larger group than that which included the Bingleys and the Hursts. When the housekeeper was summoned Upstairs, taking her stock books with her, it was generally agreed upon that suspicions had been raised. There were some who remained disappointed upon that lady's return to the bowels of the house with no more evidence of abuse than a sheaf of notes which consisted of orders for the rest of the staff. Rooms were to be opened and aired, the cellars stocked. The elderly Mr. Bretkin commented that something fishy was bound to be at the heart of all the fuss. Rumours of their Master's having discarded the freedom of bachelorhood for the shackles of matrimony, well fuelled by copious quantities of spirits consumed on the sly, lent speed to the old fool's tongue. Little heed did he pay to the well informed housekeeper, Mrs. Keefer, in whose possession the truth of the matter was indisputably imparted by her counterpart in the North. Letters travelling slightly less quickly in this case than Mr. Darcy's carriage, Mrs. Keefer learned of her employer's plans only moments before his summons reached her. She was, therefore, unsurprised by the nature of the issued commands and rather anticipated some exciting and entertaining times ahead.

While the rest of the kitchen staff scurried about their new tasks, Mrs. Keefer, smug in her private knowledge, struggled to maintain a quiet dignity amidst their chattered suppositions on the latest gossip.

"D' ye think 'tis true?"

"That sour puss! Nay, 'e'd not bring that 'un to roost under 'is roof, I dare say!"

"Aye, but she's clever enough to 'ave arranged summat," grunted the cook, a dour woman who was thoroughly disillusioned with romance.

"An' 'oo else 'as bin so close as 'ud 'ave a shot?" Bretkin was quick to point out. "T' Master's spent 'ow many months livin' in same 'ouse as tha' woman!"

Several empty heads nodded in agreement.

"E's finally been snared."

"'Bout time."

"Best you keep yore wits 'bout ya wi' that 'un."

Mrs. Keefer chuckled to herself as she turned to attend to her own tasks.

Darcy was impatient to see Elizabeth. Unfortunately, there were matters to which must be attended first, however much he desired otherwise. A letter over which he had laboured meticulously during the early morning hours had been sent to the Gardiners' abode, addressed to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He contented himself with the imagined reaction of the recipient to the words he had scribed.

The morning passed quickly enough. Darcy finalised the arrangements for the special licence, met with his solicitors to make the marriage settlement and then returned to the house after having stopped at a few shops to purchase necessary items for his role as groom. When he returned home it was his intention to immediately change into more suitable attire for an afternoon visit with his fiancée and her family. However, when he stepped through the door he was instead confronted by his sister who seemed more eager than himself to be away to the Gardiners'.

"Georgiana, I cannot appear dressed like this!" Darcy protested. "Why are you so anxious to leave?"

She looked over her shoulder toward the closed door of the drawing room. "Richard said that Mr. Bingley paid a visit today while you were out. You know what that means, don't you?" Her brother shook his head, waiting for her to continue. "It means that Miss Bingley won't be far behind. Oh, I know she won't be inconveniencing you since you are comfortably betrothed but do you really think I want to spend an afternoon with her conversation? Leave her to Richard, I say!"

Darcy's laughter filled the hallway. "I'm afraid you will just have to wait until I have made myself more presentable, dear sister. I am not going to appear before Elizabeth like this."

"She won't notice, you know," Georgiana teased. "She'll only have eyes for your curls, your barely perceptible smiles, your -."

"That's enough! Your impertinence is bordering on brazen, Georgiana. It is not at all becoming." He softened his tone as she lowered her head with his rebuke. "I will not be long. Why do you not keep our cousin company until I am ready?" He was relieved with her nod of compliance, watching her enter the drawing room before making his own way upstairs to his room.

Although he had promised her he wouldn't be long, Darcy was not about to overlook anything in his appearance today. He was meticulous down to the smallest detail. It was during the finishing touches of brushing off his jacket that Darcy realised that he hadn't checked the hall table for a reply from Elizabeth. Turning to his man, Darcy had only to begin his enquiry about the post when his valet indicated a letter sitting upon the table near the door. Impatient now to complete his preparations, Darcy dismissed the servant and hurriedly retrieved the missive from the table's surface.

It was unmistakably Elizabeth's hand.

My dearest Fitzwilliam,

It has been a mere three days since we parted and I cannot believe how much the separation has affected me. Your letter this morning brought such joy to my heart that I find myself counting the minutes until we are once again in one another's presence. It seems so unlike me to feel thus! I fear I am unable to attend to a word that is spoken to me, nor to comprehend what my Mama desires me to do. We have busied ourselves with the choosing of fabrics and my wedding attire. Although I cannot inform you of the particulars I am most assured that you will approve of my choice. It is still astounding to me that I am selecting such a garment: a Wedding gown! A few weeks ago I would not have dreamed it possible. Do you know how happy you have made me? I do not think my feet have touched the ground since I left Pemberley.

Words are inadequate. You must wait until we meet this afternoon to know how much I have missed your comforting presence.

All my love,

Your Elizabeth.

Darcy's fingers caressed the paper upon which his beloved had inscribed her name. He brought it to his face, inhaling the faint scent of her fragrance, the delicate floral that he had come to recognise as distinctly Elizabeth. Closing his eyes he could bring her image before him with perfect clarity.

Thank goodness we have to wait but another week. I don't think I would have been able to delay our union for the months required by canon law. No, thanks to Fitzwilliam for suggesting the special license I will have Elizabeth under my roof, my wife ... my WIFE! in a week's time! Has anything tempted me so... has anything been so sweet in contemplation? Nothing has brought me such satisfaction nor such anticipation in its culmination.

Recollection of his surroundings brought Darcy's mind to noting the time. With desire stoked in his heart, he quickly returned to the front hall, calling for his sister to join him as well as for his coat and hat. Georgiana did not keep him waiting. They were in the carriage and on their way to the Gardiners' before he could school his desire into something more honourable.

Elizabeth didn't know if she was coming or going. If only her mother would stop fussing about! Mrs. Bennet, after suggesting and insisting that her daughter change into her most flattering gown, was not content with the more revealing nature of the dress but continued to comment upon the probability of this gown or that gown being more attractive to a man of Mr. Darcy's status. She obviously believed her future son-in-law to be a man of exacting standards and did not want her daughter to disappoint in any way.

The ringing of the bell, announcing the arrival of the Darcys, also relieved Elizabeth of the necessity of performing yet another change of attire for her mother's benefit. Mr. Darcy would just have to content himself with what she had on.

To say that his breath was taken away at the sight of his fiancée was not accurate. Darcy was a man entranced, bewitched and completely oblivious to his surroundings. He greeted Elizabeth with a quick but respectful bow, his hand bringing hers to his lips before his bow was complete. His eyes lingered on how her gown accentuated her figure; her slim waist and generous bosom.

"Good evening, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said in a breathy voice. Her own heart was pounding wildly at this first meeting since their parting at his home in Derbyshire. She wished with all her heart that they were alone in the room, that her mother and Georgiana were not present. That was a foolish wish, however. Although Elizabeth had every faith in Darcy's heart she knew that her mother would not risk compromising her daughter at this stage. Until they were safely married, the gentleman was not likely to achieve more than a chaste kiss if Mrs. Bennet had her way.

Darcy's eyes were locked with Elizabeth's. "Elizabeth," he managed to announce louder than intended. Covering his embarrassment with a cough he repeated her name in a lower voice. "Elizabeth, I ... I am pleased to see you once again." The words did no justice to the way he felt but Darcy was suddenly very much aware of the presence of her mother and sisters. As much as he would have liked to kiss her right there and then he was well aware of the improprieties connected with such an action. As frustrating as it was, Darcy contented himself with the belief that Mrs. Bennet would eventually provide them with some time alone, however brief it may prove to be. He would be prepared.

His faith was not misplaced. Less than an hour after their arrival Elizabeth's mother found an excuse to remove her other daughters and Georgiana from the room on some pretext or other that he had not the inclination to notice. Elizabeth was his only interest and she was about to become the only other person in the room upon whom he would bestow his attentions.

"Mr. Darcy-."

"Fitzwilliam," he breathed into her ear once they were alone. "Please call me Fitzwilliam. Enough of the formalities. Elizabeth, you have been in my thoughts since you left Pemberley. Our wedding is but one week away." He could not restrain himself and brought his lips to hers. His arms soon followed, wrapping around her and holding her tightly against his body. "We haven't much time before your mother returns, I'm sure, but I could not leave here today without assuring you that my feelings have in no way diminished in your absence."

"If I had harboured any fears of that nature, believe me, they would have fled when you first spoke my name." Her voice faltered with emotion as Elizabeth returned his kiss with equal ardour.

As they had suspected it was not very long before the sound of Mrs. Bennet's voice was heard in the hallway outside the door. The lady was good enough to provide this announcement of her arrival and allow time for the young couple to attain a more seemly posture. Upon her entrance into the room, Elizabeth's mother took note of the flushed countenances of Darcy and her daughter and was satisfied to have interrupted at such an opportune moment.

"Now that I have you here together there are some details to be settled with regard to next week's ceremony," she said, seating herself in a chair opposite from where the two stood. Mrs. Bennet arranged her skirt then looked up expectantly at the couple. "Now, where shall we start?"

Chapter 33 ~ Four on the Go!

Posted on Monday, 1 April 2002, at 8:25 p.m.

Georgiana watched her brother as he stared out of the window next to his desk, his mind obviously elsewhere. She gave a small cough to attract his attention. Smiling, Darcy looked over and motioned her forward.

"I wished to ask you if I might visit with our cousin, Anne, today," Georgiana said once she was sure his mind was focussed on her. "Richard tells me she has a house in town, now!"

"I think that is a splendid idea. When would you like to leave? I have a few things to finish up here but.."

"Oh, no," she interrupted. "There is no need for you to disturb yourself on my account. Richard has offered to escort me."

"Oh," Darcy replied, pleasantly surprised. "I trust you will have an enjoyable visit, then. Please extend an invitation for Anne to join us for dinner tomorrow evening."

Georgiana smiled. "I'm sure she'd like to see Elizabeth again." Placing a kiss on her brother's forehead, she waved her hand to him as she left the room.

Anne was delighted to see her young cousin again and took advantage of the opportunity to show off her new London home.

"It's the first time I've ever really been to Town, you know. Mother would never allow it."

"Oh, Anne," breathed Georgiana in awe. "How did you manage, all on your own? I would be so frightened!"

Anne laughed lightly. "I wasn't frightened in the least. It was all so exhilarating! I felt free for the first time in my life. Mother, I'm sure, is the one who is afraid. She won't budge from Rosings. It is too bad, really. I think a little theatre and social life in town would do her good."

"It certainly seems to have done well for you!"

The clock on the mantle chimed the hour and Anne glanced at it, as if to verify the time. "Oh dear, Georgiana. I have an appointment for a fitting and I must leave now if I am to make it there on time."

"May I accompany you?" the younger woman enquired. "If you don't mind."

"Of course I don't mind," Anne smiled. "Let us get ready, then."

Within a few minutes they were out of the house and in the carriage toward the shops. The day was not very cold although there could be no claim to sunshine. They were on time for Anne's appointment, the fitting was accomplished in a quick and efficient fashion and Georgiana suggested a stroll through the winter gardens of Hyde Park before returning to the house. With a footman following at a discreet distance, the ladies took their pleasure of the afternoon air.

"It is much more peaceful in the park at this time of year than in spring," Georgiana said as they walked.

"I shall have to accept your opinion as I've not spent any time in London to know one end from the other," Anne replied with a smile. "I must confess to such a deliriously happy feeling, though. I doubt you can imagine what a luxury is freedom to do as you please."

Her cousin frowned. "I'm not so free as you seem to think. My brother is very strict."

"Strict for your own good, my dear." Anne stopped and gave her young cousin a stern look. "Being a guardian is a tough task and Darcy is a good brother. I suspect you've tested his limits a few times, haven't you?"

Light laughter floated in the air. "He can be so dreadfully serious, you know. It was very funny to see how shaken was his composure whenever he encountered Elizabeth!"

"You are such a trouble maker!" Anne laughed, too.

"Trouble!" Georgiana's eyes grew wide. "Why does everyone suspect the worst of me?"

"Perhaps it is because you enjoy mischief so much," came a voice from behind them. Both ladies turned quickly to see Lieutenant George Wickham sketch a polite bow toward each of them. "It is a great pleasure to see you again, Miss de Bourgh. Miss Darcy."

Georgiana's breath caught in her throat and she glanced at her cousin to see her reaction. Anne was smiling and had offered her hand to the gentleman in greeting. Georgiana felt a twinge of jealousy as Wickham brushed his lips against the back of the other woman's hand. Not to be outdone, Georgiana offered her own hand in turn and the young Lieutenant graced her with a kiss, too.

"How fortunate to meet you here," he said with nary a pause. "For I have heard it rumoured that your brother is soon to be married! Is this true?" Wickham met Georgiana's intrepid gaze with amused curiosity. When she did not immediately answer he smiled. "Ah, so it must be true! I do not see your faithful guardian by your side and I trust he is not loitering in the shrubbery about to leap out at unsuspecting gentlemen." He lowered his voice and leaned closer to the ladies. "No doubt he is courting his beloved as we speak, no? That is what I would be doing in his stead." The ladies remained silent while Wickham observed their indecision as to how to reply. "I understand that Darcy chose one of the lovely Bennet sisters, Miss Elizabeth is it? I can't imagine how he actually came to offer for her let alone get her to accept him. He's just so.... stiff."

"He loves her very much!" Georgiana hotly defended. "Love can effect a change in the most stalwart of tempers."

"Ah, yes," Wickham grinned, his eyes atwinkle. "I am very much aware of the changes which may overcome one due to that emotion."

For a moment longer Georgiana retained her anger but older, deeper feelings soon overrode her annoyance. She began to mull over his words. At that moment Anne voiced a greeting to someone approaching from behind the young officer. "So, Georgiana is not so unprotected as first appears," she said as her cousin Fitzwilliam joined them. The Colonel scowled in Wickham's direction.

"I thought you had left for Canada, Wickham. What are you doing in London?"

The Lieutenant assumed a military bearing as befit addressing a senior officer as he replied. "I leave for Southampton in four days, sir. It will be another week after that, I believe, before we set sail."

"And how long are you in London?"

"But another day. There are some matters which needed tending before my departure." His eyes never wavered from Fitzwilliam's as the Colonel stepped almost casually between Wickham and the ladies.

"We would not wish to keep you from your business, then," Fitzwilliam said in a low voice, leaving no doubt as to his meaning.

The young Lieutenant's lips twitched with amusement but he made no argument. "Just as I should not wish to keep these charming ladies from your company. Good day, Miss de Bourgh, Miss Darcy." Wickham executed a respectful bow toward each before taking his leave. Anne and Georgiana wordlessly watched him walk away.

"Really, Richard! There was no cause to be rude." Anne pulled her cloak close about her and busied her hands with drawing on a pair of fine kid gloves. "One might think you believed us devoid of any sense at all. What did you fear would happen out here, in a public park?"

"Well...."

"Well what?" Georgiana prompted impatiently.

He turned his attention to the younger of the two. "You, my young ward, can just keep that tone to yourself. While your brother is preoccupied, I am your guardian and I will not tolerate any mischief."

Rolling her eyes heavenward, Anne groaned aloud. "Please stop, Richard. You begin to sound just like my mother." She laughed at the stunned expression on his face. "Ah, I have managed to frighten you into silence."

"Not at all," Fitzwilliam quickly replied, adopting a more military bearing. "You will learn, Anne, that freedom often comes at a price if one is not careful."

On that sombre note the ladies and their chaperon turned back toward the carriage.

Lieutenant Wickham observed the three cousins disappear into the confines of their carriage. He let out a grunt, amusement mixed with frustration, before pushing himself away from the brick wall where he leaned. Only one day left in town and this afternoon's effort had been wasted. His brow furrowed in thought as considered several of the options still remaining. Settling on his next move, Wickham pursed his lips and whistled as he sauntered along the sidewalk.

The chime at the door heralded the arrival of the Bennets and the Gardiners. Darcy adjusted his cuffs, brushed the front of his jacket and awaited his guests to be announced. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Fitzwilliam slip into the parlour through the door to the dining room. There was no time to wonder what he'd been up to, however, as the rattle of the handle directed his attention to the entrance of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.

Polite greetings were exchanged, Darcy and his sister welcoming the family of his betrothed into their London home. Mrs. Bennet was awed into a respectful, and welcome, silence as she gazed about at the tastefully yet expensively furnished room. Elizabeth's aunt smiled her approval and caught Elizabeth's eye, encouraging her to voice her own pleasure in their surroundings. Georgiana was only too eager to offer a tour of the house which the ladies were quick to accept. Darcy hesitated, aware that the rest of his guests had not yet arrived and cognisant of his duty as host to be present to receive them.

"Go ahead," Fitzwilliam reassured him. "I will stay here to greet Anne and the Bingleys. I'm sure they will not be offended by your engagement elsewhere."

Darcy was pleased with the arrangement and, taking Elizabeth's arm in his, followed the rest of the party into the hallway. Georgiana was in her element, pointing out various treasured artworks that decorated the walls, the alcoves and spread along the mantels in each room. Well versed in their histories since she was a child, the young hostess entertained her entourage with tales of acquisition by Darcys of years past. Elizabeth listened with genuine interest while her companion heard none of it, having eyes and ears for only one lady at the moment. From their position at the rear of the party it was easy for Darcy to indulge his interest while still appearing to pay proper attention to the rest of his guests. While assisting Elizabeth up the stairs, he took the opportunity to compliment her with a whispered comment in her ear. The lady coloured with a delighted embarrassment but was not too overcome to forsake a reply in kind. She had noted the exquisite tailoring of his clothing and that the colours were eminently suited to him. It struck Elizabeth as unusual that each time they met she found him to be more attractive, both in appearance and manner. These thoughts proved enough distraction to miss the words of Miss Darcy, now leading the party through the rooms of the upper floor. Finding herself in a bright and cheerfully decorated parlour, Elizabeth sent a questioning gaze toward Darcy.

"This was my mother's sitting room," he explained. "It was recently repainted so that Georgiana could use it while she stayed in town last year." In a softer tone he added, "This will be for your use, now, if you find it agreeable."

A smile lit up her face. "Oh yes! It is a most delightful room. It pleases me very much. Thank you," she shyly added, now very much aware of how soon she would come into possession of his name. The others had moved on, she noted, yet Darcy seemed disinclined to rejoin them. They stood, smiling at one another, until a giggle from Elizabeth broke the spell.

"Yes," he said, clearing his throat. "Let us continue."

None of her sisters, nor her aunt seemed to have noticed their brief absence. Mrs. Bennet, however, was very much aware of the later arrival of her second daughter and host. Content that nothing would interfere with the natural course of events, she confidently turned her attention back to Miss Darcy and the mental tally of her soon to be son-in-law's attributes.

Fitzwilliam looked at the clock, willing it to move faster. Had he known that Miss Bingley intended to quiz his cousin Anne about the dimmest days of his childhood, albeit in a clever and discreet manner, he would have resisted the impulse to grant Darcy more time with Elizabeth.

Darcy should be the one suffering the attentions of Caroline Bingley, he grumbled silently. A sulky look in lady's direction, however, brought a more palatable thought to mind. No effort was required to let the gaze linger on her features. He'd said it before and his opinion had not changed; Miss Bingley was a very striking woman. What did Darcy find so objectionable? Ahhh, yes, he mused. She is insatiably curious about the most obscure and personal details of one's life.

Again he heard his cousin's laugh and the ladies directed glances toward him. Even Bingley seemed amused with whatever had been said but one challenging look from Fitzwilliam stifled his laughter.

More laughter filled the room as the wayward returned; Mrs. Bennet in full cry as she crossed the threshold. Directly, she crossed to her husband and began enumerating the many delights to be found in Mr. Darcy's townhouse, much to the mortification of her second daughter. Of the gentleman there was no sign but before Fitzwilliam could speculate as to his whereabouts, Darcy belatedly appeared and the door closed behind him.

Now that all of the guests were assembled a fond reunion of sorts took place. Questions were asked and details divulged for the rapidly approaching nuptial ceremony. Fitzwilliam took advantage of the preoccupation to move unnoticed into the dining room. Standing with is back to the door, he surveyed the table, pursing his lips. Something did not look right. His eyes came to rest on a single flower which lay across one of the plates.

"Darcy," Fitzwilliam muttered, shaking his head and crossing the distance to the table in three strides. He picked up the flower and placed it gently on another plate, the same one he had laid it on originally. "There you go, Mrs. Bennet! A token of affection from your son-to-be." With a low chuckle he left the room by the secondary entrance so that he could return to the drawing room from the hallway.

The topic of conversation had not varied since Fitzwilliam had left, although the focus had shifted slightly from the bride's family to the groom's. Georgiana was now fielding enquiries about the eligible prospects likely to attend from amongst Darcy's relations. The queries were by no means so calculatingly expressed. They did, however, realise their potential in Georgiana's replies. She did not fail to satisfy the other ladies' curiosities as per age and eligibility of the Fitzwilliam brothers. As no other relations of Darcy would likely be attending the ceremony on such short notice and at this particular time of year, the Colonel knew that he and his brothers were destined to be denied any opportunity to be bored.

Highly amused with his cousin's discomfort, Darcy observed from the safety of the outside edge of the party. The dynamics of the assemblage was fascinating to witness. Fitzwilliam, who appeared at first the master of his destiny, was soon struggling to keep up with the rapid fire volleys from the younger Bennet sisters and Miss Bingley. Elizabeth had approached Darcy, determined to offer an apology on behalf of her family's behaviour but he waved it off.

"It is nothing less than he deserves," Darcy said quite seriously. "My cousin has too much time on his hands. Despite his appearance of having a military career, he seems to spend less time with his regiment than in attempting to regiment his relations' lives." He smiled mysteriously. "Soon he may find the tables turned, however."

Elizabeth's eyebrow raised in that arch manner that Darcy so loved. "I suppose it would be a waste of my breath to enquire what mischief is afoot?"

Bringing her hand to his lips, Darcy placed a gentle kiss upon it. "Ah, my love," he softly replied. "I would not put you in such a position as to have to resort to subterfuge should you be questioned. Will you be content with knowing that no harm will befall any of the parties concerned?"

"Parties? You have a curiously devious nature, sir, of which I was previously unaware."

Darcy looked intently into her eyes. "I hope this does not displease you."

"On the contrary," Elizabeth replied in an equally earnest tone. "I expect you to continue the practice without reservation as to my approval and with my wholehearted participation."

Bestowing another kiss upon her hand, Darcy said, "Thank you, dearest Elizabeth. I fear this is one trait that is shared within the family. I am relieved to comprehend your acceptance of our frailties. However, in light of that acceptance I must beg your indulgence as I have something to attend to. I shall return momentarily." His eyes twinkled with mischief as he quietly left the room.

Elizabeth sighed happily and turned back toward the room to see Colonel Fitzwilliam following the progress of the ladies' mission with an expression of growing apprehension. She chuckled upon concluding that his behaviour was reminiscent of the canary just before the cat pounced. Within minutes Darcy had returned, smiling warmly at Elizabeth and leading her to a seat near her aunt and uncle where they joined in conversation.

Fitzwilliam listened in ever increasing alarm as he began to comprehend that he may be out of his depth with such a quantity of eager ladies in one place. This would not be the end of it, either, for there was still the wedding to come; an event which would add even more impetus to their hunger for a husband and increase the number of eager females ogling his attributes! Aghast at his lack of foresight, the Colonel vowed to resist all efforts to persuade him to appear in uniform as such a display was guaranteed to inflame the sensibilities of the those ladies already afflicted with the romantic idea of capturing him. If things weren't disturbing enough, he had also observed Darcy's exit and return and was now impatient to extricate himself from the clutches of the fairer sex in order to effect any reparation to his preparation in the dining room.

His efforts were successful. He managed to politely remove himself from their presence, escape the room and once again inspect the table settings in the empty dining parlour. As suspected, Darcy had been there. The migrant flora was now draped across yet another diner's plate. Fitzwilliam reached for it and had just lifted it by the delicate stem when the door opened to admit the others. Cursing his ill luck, he hurriedly let go of the flower and stepped away from the table, making an attempt to appear nonchalant while inwardly tallying up the names of the diners to determine who was about to receive the windfall. Darcy sauntered past, escorting Elizabeth to her place, not able to resist a smug look in his cousin's direction. Fitzwilliam mustered up his dignity, strode toward his own seat and waited for the ladies to take theirs.

With forbearance he beheld the lady whose eyes lit up at the sight of the rose adorning her plate. Her eyes immediately met his in a gaze of perfect understanding as she had witnessed his latter movements at the table insofar as the releasing of the flower from his fingers. Fitzwilliam gave an imperceptible sigh. Things could have been worse, he supposed. Taking his own seat he tried not to glance again at the lady but could not help himself.

Miss Bingley appeared besotted.

Chapter 34 ~ Bells are Ringing

Posted on Monday, 8 April 2002, at 6:35 a.m.

In the blink of an eye it was her wedding day. Elizabeth lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Yet again she marvelled at the events of the last month. Everything had happened so quickly! In a matter of hours she would become Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley, Derbyshire! Already the sounds of activity in the kitchen reached her ears and Elizabeth drew her blankets up over her head. It was not an attempt to ward off the approach of the day but a childlike desire to restore some sense of calm to the excitement fluttering in her stomach.

"Lizzy?" The voice unmistakably belonged to her mother. "Lizzy, are you awake?"

Elizabeth threw the blanket back from her face. "Yes. Come in, Mama."

The door opened quickly and her mother entered the room, closing the door and turning toward her daughter, still bundled in the bedclothes. "Lizzy! Why are you not up and dressed yet? You must have some breakfast before the church or you'll end up fainting on the flagstones. What will become of you then? You'll hit your head and lose your memory. Mr. Darcy will not want to marry a woman who doesn't know him and all will be for naught!"

"Mama," Elizabeth laughed.

"Oh, so you think it's funny, do you? I assure you that I am quite serious," Mrs. Bennet continued unabated. "Mrs. Long told me about her friend's cousin's nephew who was engaged to marry a young lady from a very old, titled family. Moments before their wedding she slipped on a loose piece of carpeting on the stairs and fell down the entire flight! Struck her head upon the banister, she did, and not a moment of her life could she remember afterward. Well, you know that the young man simply could not bear to think of marrying a woman who couldn't remember her name, let alone his. She had no recollection whatsoever. Of course," she added, sniffing disdainfully, "had she eaten her breakfast that morning she would never have been so light-headed and taken a misstep. Alas, she died an old maid, unwilling to accept any other man after he could not face her on their wedding day."

Elizabeth sat through this recital with a straight face. Even had Mrs. Long related such a tale, she knew her own mother to have glorified it to suit her own purpose. "Mama," she sighed at the conclusion. "I will not die an old maid. Mr. Darcy will not abandon me at the altar. I will go down to breakfast as soon as I am dressed."

Mrs. Bennet, satisfied on this point, was about to leave the room when she turned back again. "Oh, there is one more thing, Lizzy. Now, I know I should have spoken to you sooner about this," she continued, taking up a seat on the bed and stroking her daughter's one hand. "The truth is that I wasn't entirely sure how to approach the subject with you. When Jane was to be married it was easy enough. She is so quiet and was attentive to everything I said. But you! You, Lizzy, will be full of questions; questions of every kind!"

"Mama," Elizabeth interrupted.

"No, Lizzy. I must make the effort if only my poor nerves will hold out. I did not bring any of my smelling salts but I trust that you will not quiz me too closely." She paused and began to take a deep breath preparatory to beginning her oratory.

Elizabeth quickly interjected, hoping to save them both some embarrassment. "Mama, please. There is no need for you to speak of this."

"No need? Why? You cannot be serious!"

"But Mama..."

"No, Lizzy. I would be doing you a great disservice if I failed to properly prepare you for what awaits. I will not allow any of my daughters to be ill prepared for the completion of their marital duties." Diligently, Mrs. Bennet folded the edge of the quilt back and smoothed out the surface.

Elizabeth slid her other hand out from under the covers and took her mother's in her own. "Jane spoke with me. We had several long talks while in London."

For a moment Elizabeth wasn't sure of her mother's reaction but the other woman let out a relieved sigh as she praised her eldest daughter's ingenuity. Patting the blushing bride's hands, Mrs. Bennet smiled and left the room.

***

Netherfield was just as busy as Longbourn at that early hour. The ballroom was already cleared of the larger pieces of furniture to make room for the staggering number of guests that would descend for the wedding breakfast following the ceremony at the church. Servants ran this way and that way, flowers and various bits of decor by the armful carried through the various rooms to be arranged and deployed. Not a detail was to be left untended. Mrs. Bingley was personally directing traffic in the most lively section of the house. She wanted nothing but the best for her sister on her wedding day. That the groom was also the dearest friend of her husband only added to her desire to make this the most perfect of celebrations, next to what her own had been, of course.

"Just a little to the left," Jane said to the servant holding a large floral swag above the lintel. "That is perfect!" She watched as he held the decoration steady while another servant secured it in place. Turning her attention to the next project she caught a glimpse of her husband walking past an open doorway and quickly disappearing around a corner. "Charles?" Jane set off after him, catching him up before he had gotten very far. "Charles, has Mr. Darcy come down, yet?"

"I've not seen him," her husband replied. "I did hear him shouting for his man an hour ago, though. He didn't sound as composed as he is usually."

Jane smiled. "Were you composed on our wedding morning?"

Bingley's eyes gained a far-off look. "No, I wasn't. Perhaps I'll go and have a word with him; see how he's progressing." Jane heartily approved of this plan, returning to her own tasks after observing her husband make his way upstairs to their guest's room.

A cautious approach was recommended for Bingley could hear Darcy's voice before he gained the perimeter of the landing just outside the guest wing of Netherfield. Recalling his own nervousness in preparation for marriage to Jane, Charles felt some sympathy for his friend but even more for the unfortunate servant trying to dress his master who would not be satisfied with his appearance. At the door, he knocked firmly and, in answer to the summons from within, opened it to see a very harassed gentleman's gentleman, vainly attempting to soothe his master's already tattered nerves. The servant looked at Bingley hopefully.

"Darcy...."

"Bingley, how can I appear in such unacceptable condition! This is preposterous to think that I have come this far to be forestalled by a ... a... neckcloth, of all things!" Darcy threw the offending piece of material onto a chair where it joined a collection of others that had suffered a similar fate for defiance of orders.

Bingley was unable to suppress his amusement. "Here, Darcy. Let me ease your mind," he said, reaching for the fresh neckcloth on the outstretched hand of the manservant. As he arranged the ends of the cloth into intricate folds, Bingley felt the time was right to offer some advice to his friend. "I hardly slept the night before my wedding."

"I remember," Darcy said, his eyes trying to follow the other man's fingers as they manipulated the material.

"I was nervous, of course," Bingley continued. "I had no fellow male from whom to solicit consolation for my anxiety.... nor for advice. Hurst was the only married man amongst the party." He caught Darcy's eyes with a knowing look. "I could hardly approach Jane's father with my concerns."

Darcy was growing more uneasy with each successive remark. "I appreciate your thoughtfulness, Bingley," he stammered.

"You are more than welcome to any information I can impart, my friend," the other man said with a smile, putting the finishing touches on the knot.

"Thank you," Darcy replied, hesitating. He glanced at his man, still waiting behind him. The servant read his master's wish in is expression and retrieved the mirror which lay upright against the opposite wall. "I assure you," Darcy continued in a hushed voice. He spoke quickly to ensure that the matter would be closed before the servant returned. "My father was quite thorough in seeing to my education in all matters. Quite thorough."

Bingley stared wordlessly. The mirror was produced, Darcy glancing down briefly and then his eyes refocused for a closer examination of his image. His friend continued to stare but at last found his voice.

"I say, Darcy, I was referring to the sort of adjustments one has to make when sharing a home with a new wife. I wasn't speaking of... of...." He coughed discreetly into his hand.

Darcy coloured, although the reason was twofold. Not only was he embarrassed to have brought up such an intimate subject but he was about to split with laughter upon seeing the most hideous excuse for a knot resting at the base of his throat! "What is this?"

Raising and eyebrow to complete his smug expression, Bingley challenged his friend with one look. 'And you thought your man didn't do an adequate job? Don't be so fastidious, Darcy." He signalled to the waiting servant to put away the mirror and take over while Darcy collapsed into a chair, laughing.

***

Fitzwilliam contemplated the polish of the buttons on his sleeve and berated himself for allowing his cousin to talk him into wearing his regimentals this day. His brothers, as attractive prospects as himself, would be more fortunate as to blend into the background of guests in their more sombre coloured attire. Red could not be doubted to catch the eye.

It was Georgiana who had finally persuaded him but the suggestion was Miss Bingley's. Fitzwilliam flattered himself that he would not have given in to that lady's request no matter how alluring her batting eyelashes became, but he knew it was a lie. In the last four days he had spent enough time in Miss Bingley's company to know he was dangerously close to following in Darcy's footsteps. Today was his greatest hope, a chance to redirect the lady's attentions toward his brothers, either of them, or both. There was only one problem with this plan.

He didn't like it one bit.

***

Georgiana was about to knock upon her brother's door when she heard a voice. It was a familiar voice and it was coming from the direction of the stairs which led to this floor. It was a most unexpected and perhaps equally unwelcome voice on this, of all days.

"Where is my nephew? I demand to see him. Darcy!"

Georgiana fled across the hall to one of the empty rooms, closing the door just enough so that she could hear and see without being seen herself. Her formidable aunt came into view almost immediately, a bevy of servants scurrying ahead, around and behind her as she walked purposefully forward.

"Darcy? Where are you?"

The door to the gentleman's chamber opened and he stood, impeccably attired, frowning at the woman who now bore down on him.

"There you are!"

"Yes, here I am," he replied sharply. With a wave of his hand he dismissed the anxious servants. When they were gone he addressed his aunt once more. "May I ask what it is that you are doing here? It is a unique manner of seeking me out, I must say."

"Darcy, you must put a stop to it." Lady Catherine was vehement. Her walking stick punctuated her sentences with a rap on the hardwood floor. "It is distressing enough to see anyone disregard proper form and conventions so blatantly but when it is my own -."

"Aunt Catherine!" interrupted Darcy. "I have neither the time nor the inclination to listen to such narratives at the moment. What is your point?"

"Well!" she huffed. "I am not accustomed to such rudeness from you, nephew." She recollected whose house in which she was standing, realising that Darcy must of necessity been forced into close proximity with Miss Bingley for long periods of time and put aside her indignation. "Never mind that, however. I appeal to you as a member of the family. The honour of our names is at stake." Darcy bristled, preparing himself to defend the honour of his bride's name at the expense of his own. "I ask you to come with me to London and put an end to all of this nonsense. You must see that she cannot be allowed to continue this ridiculous pretense."

Georgiana shrank back from the edge of the door. The look on her brother's face was one of fury. She, herself, could hardly fathom how Lady Catherine had the presumption to speak so. Although she could no longer see what was transpiring, the voices were clear enough to reach Georgiana's ears.

"My only destination is the church in Meryton at the present moment, Aunt Catherine. Today is my wedding day and I will be married within the hour."

Silence lasted a full ten seconds before a stammering voice repeated, "M-m-married? What is this? Why was I not informed?"

It was Darcy's turn to be speechless Georgiana found as she put her eye to the door once again. Her brother stood in confused silence.

"Speak up, boy!" snapped their aunt, regaining control of the situation. "You are to be married today? To whom?" She waited in dread lest he voice the name she feared.

"Darcy drew himself up and squared his shoulders. "Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

Lady Catherine's eyes closed briefly then resumed their intense scrutiny of her nephew. "Why was I not told?"

"I -."

"Obviously you cannot assist me now. I cannot understand the thoughtlessness of young people these days. You simply will not wait. I suppose you arranged all with a special licence, too?" Darcy opened his mouth to speak. "Of course you did! In my day that would never be allowed."

"Lady Catherine, if you did not come here to object to my marriage to Elizabeth, what has brought you?"

Lady Catherine sighed. "It is Anne." Darcy's eyebrows rose, encouraging her to go on. "She has made the most dreadful decision."

Chapter 35

Posted on Monday, 15 April 2002, at 8:22 p.m.

Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Elizabeth stood in the vestibule of the village church, waiting. She had no idea for what she waited but felt that she would know when to take that first step down the aisle toward Darcy and her new life. The low murmur of voices from within confirmed the excitement of the family and guests, their voices hushed in respect for this House of God. Elizabeth looked at her smiling sister; Jane was everything that bespoke calm. Even Mr. Bennet appeared relaxed and unconcerned although Elizabeth suspected that any anxiety he may have felt was well concealed.

The bride was ready. She signalled to her father and attendants with a small nod and, taking a deep breath, put her arm on her father's and they began the procession.

Darcy fidgeted with his cuffs. The skin on the back of his neck itched. He dared not lift a hand to scratch and expose himself in such undignified behaviour. A cool draft blew across the transept, too low to bring any relief to his heated face.

The pews were filled, every last one of them. Mrs. Bennet sat with her sister and brother and their spouses. The three younger Bennet sisters shared the pew behind their mother with Sir William Lucas, Lady Lucas and their two eldest daughters. On the opposite side of the aisle sat Colonel Fitzwilliam and the Bingley sisters, including Mr. Hurst, and Lady Catherine in the first row, of course. Georgiana sat between Miss Bingley and Fitzwilliam, her eyes glittering with excitement.

At a sound from the doorway all heads turned as one to peer up the aisle where Elizabeth stood, a radiant figure in white, sunlight filtering from the window behind creating a halo over her head. A collective sigh arose at the sight. Darcy was transfixed, barely remembering to breathe. He watched his bride's progress down the aisle toward him, each step sending his heart palpitating wildly.

Bingley whispered something in his ear but Darcy heard not a word. Then Elizabeth was standing before him, her father offering her hand into that of the waiting groom.

The couple smiled warmly at one another, then turned to face the altar.

***

The wedding breakfast was an extraordinary affair. Jane had outdone herself. Despite the brevity of her time between becoming Mistress of Netherfield and hostess for her sister's nuptial celebration, not even lady Catherine had found anything to criticise in the presentation.

The happy couple greeted their well-wishers near the entrance to the ballroom. The farthest end of that room led to the dining hall where the tables were already laid out with a variety of cold dishes. Once everyone was seated the remaining selections would be served hot from the kitchens.

Colonel Fitzwilliam managed to free himself from the cloying attentions of several young ladies with the excuse of a family obligation pertaining to his aunt. With this he sought her out from amongst the throng, sitting in on of the vacant chairs which surrounded her.

"I understand that a matter of urgency brought you here," he began.

"Yes, and it is fortunate that I did arrive in time. I cannot understand such want of attention to protocol as your cousin had demonstrated. It must be made plain to the others," she glared pointedly in the direction of the two Fitzwilliam brothers who suffered the fate their sibling had just escaped, "that any future marriages must follow the dictates of form."

"Yes - er... What was this urgent matter, Aunt?"

She turned her penetrating gaze on the Colonel. "As you well know, my daughter forsook her place at Rosings Park to take up residency in London on her own! Such shameless behaviour is an affront to any decent gentlewoman and I am appalled that some have seen fit to actually receive her! This is neither here nor there, however. I came to make Darcy aware of the very real danger in which Anne has placed herself. She must be made to understand that she cannot continue in this manner. She will be easy prey to any and every fortune hunter in the country! Her health is delicate at best. She has no idea how to handle herself in such circumstances. Darcy must speak with her before it is too late and I am only fortunate enough to have arrived here before he has left the county."

Fitzwilliam sighed. "Aunt Catherine, you must see that it would be impossible for Darcy to undertake this task for you at the moment. Therefore I volunteer myself to go in his stead. I will speak with Anne." And see what alarms you so.

Although still visibly miffed with Darcy's unavailability, Lady Catherine accepted her other nephew's offer. "I shall have my carriage readied at once."

He raised a hand, forestalling that order. "Tomorrow morning will do just as well. Georgiana is to be in my charge while Darcy and his bride are away. I will not remove her from the celebration too early."

Tightlipped, his aunt nodded in compliance. She reflected that never in all of her 30 years as Lady of Rosings Park had so many people in such a short space of time defied her wishes! This was so shocking that she knew not what to do to restore everything to rights.

What was the world coming to?

***

Jane's smile was warm as she watched her sister and Mr. Darcy bidding farewell to family and friends. Mr. Darcy's carriage was at the door, the four matched grays standing quietly in the cool afternoon air. There was still enough daylight left to make their destination.

Georgiana drew near to Jane, her own expression registering the genuine happiness she felt for her brother and friend. "You'll miss her, I know. Mr. Bingley will just have to bring you to Pemberley often."

Looking at the younger woman fondly, Jane said, "Yes, but as you say, we will still visit Pemberley. There is consolation in knowing that those will be extended periods in one another's company. And we will still have letters. Lizzy and I have always written frequently when apart." They were both silent for a moment. "What of you, Georgiana? This will also be a big change for yourself."

"I enjoy seeing my brother happy," she said in a quiet voice. "I know that Elizabeth will ensure that he is. How could I want anything more? I knew before he did that Elizabeth was right for him."

Again they watched the newlyweds say the last of their goodbyes. As he helped his bride up the steps of the carriage, Darcy looked toward where his sister was standing. Bowing his head, he acknowledged the presence of both ladies with his final farewell before stepping into the carriage, too. Both Jane and Georgiana remained in place until it was our of sight, then they returned to the warmth of Netherfield House.

***

Fitzwilliam was no longer in any doubt of Anne's reasons for staying in London. Nearly half a day confined in travel with Lady Catherine's Book of Infinite Wisdom was enough to have him desiring a cheery vacation on the continent, perhaps France. Even Georgiana offered nothing in the way of an alternative for she was clever enough not to draw their aunt's attention, and therefore advice, upon herself.

It made for an altogether unpleasant journey for two of the carriage's occupants.

Once safely deposited at the step of Darcy's Townhouse, the Colonel assured Lady Catherine that he would see to her daughter's well being as soon as possible and inform her of the result just as efficiently. Lady Catherine then continued on toward Kent.

Georgiana flung her bonnet onto a sofa and flopped down beside it. "Are you really going to spy on Anne?"

Fitzwilliam laughed. "Spy? Have you been reading those dreadful novels again? Of course I am not going to spy on her." He rang for a servant, turning to face Georgiana with his back to the wall. "Lady Catherine has some valid concerns in all of her paranoia. I will visit Anne tomorrow morning to make sure that her mother has no cause for worry. Once I am satisfied on that subject we may move on to Matlock as originally planned. I am sorry for this alteration, Georgiana. I hope you don't mind."

"Of course I don't mind!" she replied. "I have seen Anne far too infrequently over the years that I am quite happy to enjoy her company as often as we have of late."

"I wouldn't be so quick to think of this visit as one of enjoyment," mumbled her cousin.

"I gather that you would rather I not accompany you tomorrow, then?" Georgiana pursed her lips in contemplation of activities that she could pursue in his absence.

"I would not recommend it."

"Very well." She rose from the sofa, taking up her bonnet. "I shall retire to my room for some rest and will see you at dinner, Richard."

"Mmmm... yes," the Colonel replied absently. His mind was already busily occupied in devising some plausible phrases to employ with his crafty cousin to gain her confidence.

***

"I cannot stay long. I must be back before I'm missed in the morning."

"I'm sorry. The arrangements are taking longer than I thought. I didn't realise how difficult it would be to avoid arousing suspicions."

"Then you believe you've been successful?" There was a touch of pleased surprise in his tone.

"So far, yes." She giggled. "I have been followed, you know."

"Of course," he said. "I did warn you."

"But I've become very good at confusing my shadow."

He touched the end of her nose with one finger. "I always said you were a clever girl."

"Another two days and all will be ready."

"Perfect timing, then. I must confess, I was getting a bit anxious."

Taking his hand, she whispered, "I wouldn't have disappointed you."

"I know." He brought her hand to his lips and pressed them against her soft skin. "You must be getting back now, though."

"Yes," she sighed. "Before I am missed. My faithful watchdog would raise the alarm quickly enough."

They rose from the table where they sat, briefly embraced and he saw her to the door of the establishment. As she slipped out into the afternoon sunshine, he slipped back into the dim interior.

***

The next day Colonel Fitzwilliam was a sorry sight, standing on the step of his cousin's house requesting admittance. The servant eyed him carefully, loathe to receive any solitary gentleman into his Mistress's parlour. Had it not been for Miss de Bourgh's personal maid, Claudette, the good Colonel may have found himself with the door shut in his face. Claudette, however, recognised him immediately and scolded the man for not acknowledging a gentleman when he saw one. Fitzwilliam was thus ushered into the parlour and there he waited upon her joining him.

"Richard!" Anne cried upon opening the door. "I could hardly believe my ears when I was told you were down here." She greeted him with a warm embrace and a kiss on the cheek. "What on earth are you doing back in London so soon? I thought were staying with Mr. Bingley for a few days before taking Georgiana to Matlock. Where is Georgiana?"

As they sat down Fitzwilliam explained that their young cousin was at Darcy's house while he was visiting with herself. "She wished to visit, too, but I suggested that she wait. I needed to speak with you alone, first."

"Is that so?" Anne's expression was amused. "I cannot imagine what you might have in mind."

The Colonel grinned. "If you are thinking that your mother has put me up to something...."

"Hasn't she?" Anne laughed. "She reconciled herself to not winning Darcy over as her son-in-law. An earl's son, though! Must keep the fortunes in the family, you know. Richard, tell me the truth. Has she been pestering you to do the honourable thing and marry me?"

"No, no. Truthfully," he replied. "I did not have much opportunity to make sure you are managing well enough on your own. We were only in town for a week before setting off for Hertfordshire. Is there anything I can do for you? Have you had any problems, trouble?"

"Well, not really." She thought a moment. "I have no carriage as of yet. That is something that I've not had an opportunity to acquire."

"Could you not have one sent up from Rosings?"

"Yes, I suppose I could." Anne appeared quite pleased with this suggestion. "I shall tend to that immediately. Thank you, Richard."

He seemed to be considering his next words for he spoke carefully. "Are you quite sure that there is nothing I can do? You have not been.... imposed upon by certain.. er.. types of gentlemen? A young woman of fortune, alone in the city can be very tempting to some rather undesirable kinds
of people."

Anne nodded her head in perfect understanding. "Let me assure you that I have not become the victim of a fortune hunter. I am not without my own protection, cousin."

He recalled the difficulty he had experienced in trying to gain admittance to the house. "It pleases me that your servants are well versed enough to keep out strangers and single young men. I trust that those are their instructions?" At her nod of assent Fitzwilliam relaxed. "I have done my duty, then. I would not have been able to rest easy knowing that you continued here while I was up North and Darcy away. For the short time that we are both absent I am satisfied that I need not worry."

Anne's smile widened. "You may tell my mother that she need not worry, either."

A sheepish grin spread over the Colonel's face. "That I will."

Chapter 36 ~ I Spy With My Little Eye

Posted on Monday, 29 April 2002, at 5:44 a.m.

Colonel Fitzwilliam gestured for the other man to sit down. He passed a tankard of ale to the newcomer and, hunching over his own, said in an offhand manner, "What have you to report?"

"Aye, you didn't deceive me. She's clever, she is." He took a long draught of the ale, downing half the contents of the mug. "She gave me the slip a couple of times, I must admit. Apart from that there was nothing unusual; trips to the shops, the bank, her solicitors."

"The solicitors...." Fitzwilliam pondered the information for a few moments. "Did she go there often?"

"It was the first place she stopped when she came to town. Since then I'd say a regular weekly visit until this past week."

"What was different about the last week?" Fitzwilliam signalled for another pint.

"She was there nearly every day." They paused as the server brought another mug. "Aye, every day."

"What about the bank?" the Colonel asked when they were alone again. "Did she increase the frequency of her visits there, too?"

"Surprisingly, no. I had expected the same, but...."

"Correspondence?"

"Nothing out of the ordinary."

Fitzwilliam leaned forward. "What does that mean?"

The other man shrugged. "Tradesmen's bills, mostly; gowns, hats, the occasional letter from Rosings Park."

"What about visitors?"

"Apart from yourself and Miss Darcy there have been few others to call."

Still puzzling over the scarcity of information, Fitzwilliam persisted. "Any gentlemen?"

Shaking his head decisively, the other man replied, "No, only ladies. Mrs. Brookfield, Lady Morris and her daughter. Nobody questionable."

The Colonel tapped his fingers on the tabletop. "She's up to something. I know it. Where has she managed to elude you and when?"

"Three or four times while going in and out of the shops in High Street. Once she hailed a cab and I was left standing in the street with no way to follow. There was no apparent consistency in the time of day. I have not yet discovered where she went but she always returned home well before dark and by cab."

Shaking his head, Fitzwilliam grumbled, "Where did she learn all of these tricks sheltered away at Rosings?" Rising from the table he dropped a few coins onto its surface. "I will join you for the next few days. Two pairs of eyes may be better than one."

***

"Oh." The single syllable conveyed surprise, disappointment and relief all at once. Georgiana eyed her cousin while she waited for his explanation.

"Some minor issues have arisen. Nothing urgent but they may as well be taken care of while I am in town. I am sorry, Georgiana, but I promise we will leave for Matlock before your brother and his wife return here next week."

"Very well, Richard. I shall hold you to that promise." She placed a kiss on his cheek and asked if he would like to hear some music. His smile was all the encouragement she needed. Georgiana sat at the piano, choosing some of the more recent pieces she had practised while Fitzwilliam made himself comfortable by the fire with a glass of brandy in hand and some serious contemplating on his agenda.

As the notes filled the room he soon found his mind wandering from the day's preoccupations to the pleasure of the music. Georgiana's playing was proficient and her selections soothing. He began to think that there was a great deal of pleasure to be had in spending many evenings occupied thus. A quick shake of his head dispelled most of that notion.

Even when that woman is nowhere near I am being lured into thoughts of domesticity!

Fitzwilliam schooled his concentration into planning for the next day's activities.

***

After two days of skulking in the shrubbery in the January cold Fitzwilliam was rethinking his notion that espionage was exciting. There must have been a reason why officers left this sort of thing up to the regulars to tackle and now he knew what it was.

Darned unpleasant sitting in a tangle of thorny bushes freezing one's tail off!

He tried stamping his feet to restore some circulation to the numbed toes but it was for naught. That particular manoeuver had lost any benefit several hours earlier.

A voice in his ear made Fitzwilliam jump in alarm. That it was his own man and not a patrolling constable or, worse, one of the lumbering footmen from the house, brought him little consolation.

"Don't do that!" he hissed.

The second man shrugged. "She has never left the house after dark. You may as well leave this shift to me."

The Colonel needed no further urging. With a promise to return the next morning, he stretched his stiffened muscles, flexed his unyielding joints and carefully made his way out from the shrubbery and to the public pathway. It was a good fifteen minutes before he felt that he was walking normally again. A brisk pace it was not, yet he was able to cover the distance between his two cousins' homes in a respectable time and even arrived without arousing any suspicion as to his own whereabouts for the greater part of the day. Georgiana was at her piano, the notes of her music filling the hall with a cheery air. Fitzwilliam found himself thinking it a delightful welcome after a full day. Taking the stairs as quickly as he dared, he headed for his room to quickly bathe and change for dinner.

His man was efficient, the ordering of the hot water was immediate and before long the Colonel was sighing contentedly in a steaming bath, all thoughts of the frigid January air behind him. Mindful that he had not much time before dinner would be ready, he tarried in the hot water as long as he dared then called for the towels. Many years of military service had taught him expediency in dressing oneself and the lessons were not wasted here. Even the indoor air was less warm than he would have liked. Fitzwilliam quickly drew on his shirt and trousers, allowed his man to put the finishing touches on his attire and slipped into his jacket. Presentable at last, he joined Georgiana downstairs, listening pleasurably to her final concerto until it came to an end before he entered the room.

Surprise did not do justice to describing his feelings upon discovering that the lady seated at the piano was not Georgiana but Caroline Bingley! His cousin sat nearby, politely applauding the performance. Both ladies looked toward the door at his appearance. Fitzwilliam was quick but Miss Bingley was quicker. Before he could advance more than a few steps she was beside him, greeting him with delightful smiles which he found completely distracting. Quite oblivious, he allowed her to lead him to a settee and sit him down whereupon she placed herself beside him.

"Miss Bingley," Fitzwilliam finally managed to say. "I was not aware that you were back in town. It's very nice to see you again." He cringed inwardly at the insipid nature of the words.

Not daunted by his less than eager greeting, she lent all the more to her own. "My sister and Mr. Hurst brought me with them only this morning. I could not wait to see Georgiana again and called upon her immediately." She turned her smile in her friend's direction before continuing. "It is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance again, Colonel."

He found himself unable to tear his gaze from her eyes, the memory of the music still played in his head and the comforting effect lingered. "You are staying for dinner?" Blast, man! Have you completely forgotten common courtesy?

"Yes, Richard," Georgiana said, trying not to giggle. "I have informed the staff."

"Oh... well... good." He nodded stupidly, his eyes at last coming to rest on the sheet music at the instrument. "That was a delightful piece you were playing a moment ago. You have a remarkable talent, Miss Bingley."

She seemed a bit surprised with this compliment was but not foolish enough to let the opportunity slip away. "Georgiana and I have dabbled with a duet or two. Perhaps we could play them after dinner if you are amenable?"

"Oh, yes. If it is of no inconvenience to either of you ladies, that is." The Colonel was rescued from further embarrassment by their demurral of any imposition.

Miss Bingley's presence turned the tide of usual conversation to more feminine topics. While the two ladies talked the gentleman was free to observe and to this end he took advantage. Fitzwilliam could enjoy the animation that became evident as they spoke enthusiastically on things that can only be of such delight to women. It was mystifying but not something that he spent any time considering. There were far more pleasant things to consider, after all, such as the way a lady's hair was swept up away from her neck, exposing the slimmest portion of skin possible between the hairline and the lacy trim of the gown. A few tiny strands of hair had escaped the imprisonment of the style and curled teasingly behind her ears. The ears themselves were delicately formed, curving elegantly around and drawing the eye along the smooth surface of her cheek to her warm red lips.... lips that had stopped moving ... lips that were now facing him!

"I'm sorry? My thoughts seem to have wandered," Fitzwilliam said rather sheepishly. Blast it, man! You aren't a schoolboy. Get hold of yourself.

"I was saying that dinner should be ready now, Richard," Georgiana patiently repeated, admirably maintaining a straight face. "Shall we go into the dining room?"

"Yes, yes," he said, rising quickly and offering an arm to each lady. Georgiana placed her hand lightly upon him but Miss Bingley's grip was more firm. Strangely enough, he found it rather comfortable.

***

Outside the residence of Anne de Bourgh sat a very cold man. He hunched into the meagre warmth of his coat and tried to draw some consolation from knowing that this shift would end soon. As soon as the light in the lady's chamber window went out he could go to his own bed and grab a few hours of sleep.

***

It was a very agreeable way to end the evening. Georgiana and Miss Bingley had a delightful blend of voices. The duets they had practised had come to fruition with a sweetness that made the mouth water. Fitzwilliam was comfortably situated in an armchair near the fire, with a perfect view of the fair performers and an equally excellent vision it was. The ladies played and sang several songs until the hour grew late and it was time for Miss Bingley to depart. Upon realising that she would have no proper escort for her trip back home Fitzwilliam promptly offered to accompany her. It was not acceptable to allow a single young woman to travel alone at night, particularly in the city.

Georgiana saw them to the door and watched as her cousin assisted Miss Bingley into the waiting coach. Fitzwilliam carefully handed her up the steps and then ducked inside to take a seat on the opposite side. The driver closed the door and climbed to his own perch, taking up the reins and clucking to the horses.

Inside the carriage the two passengers were quiet for the first few blocks. The night air was cool and the warming bricks at their feet were most welcome. At last the Colonel felt he must break the silence.

"Thank you for paying a call on my cousin so soon after your arrival in Town, Miss Bingley. I'm sure that after the rush and the festivities of the last weeks she is now feeling a little abandoned with her brother away. It was very kind of you to check on her."

The lady looked a little flustered with his words but she soon recovered. "It was a very enjoyable evening, Colonel. Georgiana did appear a trifle melancholy when I first arrived but I do believe that practising the duets perked her up. She was certainly more animated through dinner." The silence threatened to descend upon them again. "Georgiana mentioned the probability of leaving for the North soon?"

"Yes," he said, a trifle distracted. "We are to go to Matlock, my father's home, in another day or so. I have some business to finish up here, hopefully tomorrow, and then we will be off."

"Oh."

The single syllable spoke volumes. There was something resembling a sigh in its timbre while the 'O' seemed to linger in the air. Fitzwilliam felt a sudden and absurd reluctance to leave town as planned. It would never do, however, to be present when Darcy and Elizabeth returned. He attempted to assure himself that he could return soon enough. The reason behind this desire was not something he wished to fully examine at the moment, though. He preferred examining the object of that desire while she was in close proximity.

"I may be returning to London shortly thereafter," he offered, watching her reaction to his words. "Georgiana will stay with my parents." Her expression brought him satisfaction and encouragement. "Would you object to my calling upon you, Miss Bingley?"

The sudden halting of the carriage interrupted this cosy conversation. Caroline looked out and upon seeing they had reached their destination said unnecessarily, "We're here."

They alighted from the carriage, the Colonel discreetly waving aside the coachman who retreated to a polite distance. Offering his arm to Miss Bingley, Fitzwilliam walked her up the steps to the front door of the Hurst home. There they paused, neither yet wishing to voice a final parting. Aware that they could not stand there much longer before the door would open, the gentleman released the lady's arm and raised her hand to his lips.

"Miss Bingley, I do hope we meet again when I am next in Town." He pressed his lips against her fingers and lowered her hand although he did not relinquish his hold.

Eyes sparkling in the moonlit night, Miss Bingley replied in a light voice, "I hope that it is not too long before you return, Colonel." Her face was illuminated in a soft glow, which brought such colour to her cheeks that Fitzwilliam wondered if he'd done something amiss. A bright sliver of light suddenly sliced the darkness, causing both to squint.

"Caroline!" Mrs. Hurst cried upon seeing them both upon the doorstep. She quickly ascertained the nature of her interruption and attempted to effect some reparations. "Colonel Fitzwilliam, how thoughtful of you to see my sister safely home. The streets of London can be so unpredictable after dark. Won't you please come in for a few minutes, at least? Surely you don't have to rush back home."

Miss Bingley had stepped through the open doorway and now looked back, an inviting smile upon her face. The expression in her eyes was soft and understanding of the moment they had very nearly shared but for the untimely arrival of Mrs. Hurst. Fitzwilliam, who realised he had been staring instead of answering the question, now focussed his attention on the elder sister. He was of a sudden reminded of the long cold days he had recently spent and that another one awaited.

"Alas, my dear lady, I cannot. I have some early morning obligations tomorrow."

A crestfallen Louisa Hurst replied, "Perhaps another time."

Fitzwilliam caught Miss Bingley's eye and grinned. "Yes, another time. Goodnight, Miss Bingley." He bowed to the ladies. "Mrs. Hurst."

"Goodnight, Colonel Fitzwilliam." Miss Bingley's voice followed him down the steps as he walked with a jaunty step back to the waiting carriage.

She had gone to her chambers, closing the door firmly behind her and dismissing the maid. Once alone she drew a sheet of paper from the bottom of the sheaf in her stationary drawer and read the lines already written upon it. When she reached the last words she silently thought for several minutes, chewing on the end of a fingernail. At last she picked up the pen, dipped it into the ink and began to write.

She wrote steadily though not quickly, the words clearly and neatly scribed on several sheets. Occasionally she would pause, perhaps searching for a word or phrase, or perhaps something more. At last she signed her name. While the ink dried she rose and stretched, then set about walking around the room. Returning to the desk she folded the letter and with great deliberation wrote the address. Then she sealed the letter using the stamp that her brother had bought for her three years ago when they had parted for the first extensive time period since their father's death.

When she was finished a single tear rolled down her cheek and splashed upon the still drying ink of the D.

My Dearest Brother it read.

Chapter 37

Posted on Monday, 6 May 2002, at 6:21 a.m.

Something Wicked This Way Comes

Cheerfully whistling his way down the sidewalk the next morning, Fitzwilliam met his partner in the usual shrub just outside the view of the house.

"Beautiful day, eh?" He slapped the other man's shoulder and grinned. "Anything new?"

Eyeing the Colonel suspiciously, he replied, "No. It's all quiet."

"Quiet?" Peering around the branches, Fitzwilliam regarded the house. "It does seem quiet." He stared a little longer. "Too quiet." Pursing his lips, he considered what he saw before him. There was smoke from the chimney. Check. There was smoke from the other chimneys. Check. The bedchamber blinds were still closed. Nothing unusual in that. The blinds on the ground floor windows were not open either.

An alarm bell went off in his head.

"Have the servants been up and about?"

"What?" his partner lazily enquired, picking at his teeth.

Impatiently, the Colonel repeated his question. "Have you seen them? Beating the rugs, dumping pots, hanging laundry, anything?"

Hastily throwing away his impromptu toothpick, the other man straightened up and joined the Colonel at his observation post. "You're right. It is too quiet." He set off for the stables with a lengthy stride. Fitzwilliam ran to catch up.

"Did you not see anything unusual during the night?" he demanded as they neared the buildings.

"There is never anything unusual going on during the night. I seized a few hours of sleep."

"You WHAT?" Fitzwilliam abruptly changed direction and headed back toward the front door of the house muttering to himself about incompetents and blunderers. He reached the door and grasped the knocker, soundly rapping it upon the solid wooden surface. It wasn't long before an astonished footman opened it. He stared at the Colonel, plainly startled by the intense expression on the man's face. "Where is your Mistress? I'd like to speak with her." He pushed past the servant and stood in the hallway, waiting.

"Miss de Bourgh is not here, sir," the footman bravely replied.

"Not here? Not here? Where is she?" Fitzwilliam assumed his finest military posture and tone, observing with satisfaction that the servant began to show symptoms of nervousness. His fingers were twitching and he was shuffling from one foot to the other. "Well? I asked you a question."

"I don't know, sir," he managed to stutter.

"Useless!" Fitzwilliam growled, then spun on his heel and shouted for the others. Servants came running from all directions to see what the fuss was about. "Quiet! Now I want some answers. I have been charged with the responsibility of making sure your Mistress doesn't come to any harm and I cannot do that without knowing where she has gone." Faces turned to one another and back again but not a word was uttered. "Alright, we'll try this from another angle."

With more patience than he thought he could possess, Colonel Fitzwilliam began an interrogation of his cousin's staff which took up the better part of the rest of the morning. When at last he was done he had amassed a small amount of information but was not much further ahead.

Anne had apparently quit the house very early that morning, having arranged for her carriage, the one she had brought up from Rosings thanks to Fitzwilliam's suggestion, the night before. She took her maid and a small trunk which seemed to indicate that she expected to be gone for some few days at least.

The early hour of departure was what bothered the Colonel most of all. It was not at all usual to leave before the sun had even arisen. The more he learned the less he liked it. His surveillance partner he had sent out to discover which route Anne had taken out of town, or if she had even left town at all. So far he had not returned. Whether this was a good sign or not Fitzwilliam wasn't sure. By mid afternoon he grew tired of waiting for any report from his scout and took himself off home. From there, he decided, it was a far more practical base of operations.

So preoccupied was he with plans to broaden his search that he failed to detect the presence of the lady in the front room when he entered.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam! At last!" she cried.

He started at the sight of Miss Bingley, obviously distraught and seemingly relieved that he had come home. "Caro- Miss Bingley!" he blurted out. "Whatever are you doing here? What is the matter?"

"Oh, Colonel-."

"Please, let us sit down." Fitzwilliam took her arm and led her further into the room, assuring himself that she was secure on the sofa before he sat beside her. Drawing her hands into his he looked into her face and asked once more, "What is the matter, Miss Bingley? What has brought you here in this state?"

"No, no. You are mistaken." She took a quavering breath.

"Just one moment," he said, quickly crossing to the cart which held the decanters. Pouring out a large measure of sherry he brought it back to Miss Bingley and bade her drink some. "You appear to need some steadying."

She gratefully accepted the glass and sipped at the ruby liquid until she felt easy enough to relate the information that must be imparted without delay. "Colonel, there is no easy way to say this. Georgiana is missing."

For the second time that day the Colonel was struck a blow. It felt physical, his knees buckled and his stomach lurched. "Pray, I didn't hear you correctly. Georgiana is where?"

Miss Bingley shook her head. "She is not here. She was not here when I arrived earlier today." Pulling a folded sheet of paper from the pocket of her gown she handed it the Colonel. "This was on the writing table in her room." As he took the paper she continued. "When I arrived and asked for Miss Darcy it was discovered that she was not in her room, nor had her bed been slept in. The distress was apparent in the staff. They had no idea that she had left nor where she had gone. I questioned her maid. The woman had been sent away last night by her mistress and told not to wake her in the morning as she wished to sleep late. She waited for the bell to summon her but it never rang. Until I arrived there had been no-one to check on her."

Fitzwilliam was incensed; with himself, with the staff, with the entire situation. Darcy is going to kill me. No question about it. He'll kill me. Slowly and painfully. He sprung from his seat and began to pace the floor. "Tell me everything. What has happened since discovering Georgiana's absence?"

"I immediately had the staff search the entire house, top to bottom. I, myself examined her room to determine what, if anything, she had taken. It was then that I found the letter." Miss Bingley directed his attention to the paper still in his hand.

Staring at it, uncomprehending for a moment, the Colonel read the words delicately inscribed across one side. My Dearest Brother. "It's for Darcy," he said tonelessly.

Miss Bingley frowned. "Surely you aren't going to wait until he gets back to open it? Who knows what may befall Georgiana in that time!"

"Of course not!" he replied, coming to his senses. "I am also one of her guardians." He tore open the seal and unfolded the note. His face fell as he read the contents. "There is not a moment to lose. I must put a stop to this!"

Reaching for his arm, Miss Bingley met his determined gaze. "What is it? What does she say?"

He looked into her eyes, unsure of just how much he could reveal. "I - I cannot say anything just yet. There may be hope." Fitzwilliam took her hands in his own. "Caroline, I would ask a great favour of you, though."

"How may I help?"

"Would you stay here? Should Georgie change her mind and come back, which I can only hope and pray that she does... I'd like her to have a friend in the house, someone who will listen to her, and keep her here until I return." He gave her hands a squeeze as if they, too, were pleading his case.

How could she refuse? With those eyes staring into hers, anxiously awaiting her reply, Miss Bingley accepted. "Of course I'll stay. It is the least I can do for my friend. I wish you Godspeed wherever it is you must go."

"Thank you," Fitzwilliam said, bowing his head over her hands. "I cannot say when I will return but I shall send you word if I find.... when I find Georgie." Looking up into her face he took her chin in one hand, bringing her gaze to meet his own. "I must go." He brought his lips to hers and placed a kiss upon their softness. Then he stood and left her sitting in the drawing room looking as affected as he felt.

***

After dashing off a note and commanding a reliable footman to make the necessary arrangements to have it sent express, Fitzwilliam gathered up a few clothes and vital items into a convenient kit bag and mounted his horse, taking only enough time to stop at his other cousin's house to see if any further information had arrived there. It was too coincidental, he thought, that both ladies had chosen the same night to disappear. He did not like the direction his thoughts were leading him.

If you have abetted Georgiana in this foolish and dangerous exploit, Anne, I will personally stand back and let Darcy at you.

There was, in fact, new information awaiting him. The man he'd hired to watch Anne since she had come to London had redeemed himself somewhat by discovering the direction her carriage had gone. Fitzwilliam couldn't determine if he was encouraged or disheartened to learn that it was the road south, one that would eventually lead to Southampton. Cursing the wasted hours that gave Anne such a head start, he set off immediately on the same road, jaw set and a determination that rivalled Napoleon's.

Darkness set in not long after he set out but Fitzwilliam, trained soldier that he was, did not allow that to deter him. He continued on through the night as long as he could, pressing onward until he knew that he must rest his horse and himself. At a suitable inn he stopped, hired a room and slept for a few hours. Once rested and fed he retrieved his horse, a fine animal in perfect condition for a military campaign, and was off once more on his mission.

At each turnpike he questioned the attendant about other travellers, carriages, ladies who may have passed. He was satisfied that he was on the right trail for Anne's carriage was described quite clearly at each stop. She was still several hours ahead of him but he was gaining ground. He anticipated catching her before she reached Southampton itself.

***

An express arrived at the Darcy townhouse just as Miss Bingley was eating breakfast. She had stayed the previous two nights, assuaging the curiosity of her sister and brother-in-law by telling them that the Colonel had been called away and did not wish to leave his cousin alone. This fiction was happily accepted by Louisa while Hurst merely grunted an acknowledgement and returned to his dinner.

Miss Bingley fingered the seal briefly before breaking it.

My dear Miss Bingley,

I regret to report that I was unable to intercept Miss Darcy as hoped. I can only cling to the prospect that she is as yet safely at home once more and under your care. I am currently making arrangements in Southampton for regular information and will return to London, myself, in another day.

Until then I remain

Yours,

Col. Richard Fitzwilliam.

Miss Bingley's feeling of warmth at the salutation and the closing were unhappily pushed aside at the distressing news that her friend was still missing. Colonel Fitzwilliam may return in a few days but he would be faced with the disappointment of a house still devoid of the presence of his young cousin. This in itself was traumatic enough but the knowledge of the imminent return of Mr. and Mrs. Darcy only added to the anxiety of the situation. When Mr. Darcy discovered the absence of his sister and that her whereabouts remained unknown, Miss Bingley was sure that she did not want to be present to see let alone bear the brunt of his wrath.

Things did not bode well for Colonel Fitzwilliam.

***

How he was to tell Darcy, Fitzwilliam could not imagine. His cousin was due to return with his new bride at any moment. Still, the Colonel had nothing to relate that would ease Darcy's mind.

The arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Darcy was an exciting enough event; one that the entire household eagerly anticipated. When the door opened to welcome the newlyweds into their home Fitzwilliam felt a pang of guilt for the pain he was about to inflict.

Time, unfortunately, was not on their side.

The Colonel waited as long as he could. Elizabeth had stayed with them but momentarily before excusing herself to go upstairs to change from her travelling clothes.

"Darcy."

His cousin looked up, baffled by the serious tone in the voice. "You seem grim, Fitzwilliam. Have you suffered terribly with the attentions of Miss Bingley while we were away?" The smirk Darcy could not completely disguise.

"If it were only that simple," the Colonel sighed.

Taking a seat, Darcy became serious. "There is a problem? Come. Out with it."

"It's Georgiana."

"What?" Darcy's eyes flew open, the languid humour replaced with sudden fear. "Where is she? What's happened?"

Fitzwilliam drew a deep breath and began to explain. "Two nights after you left, after the wedding, Georgiana also departed, leaving this with the post on the hall table." He handed over the letter, addressed in the fine hand that Darcy immediately recognised as his sister's. Snatching it from the other man's fingers, Darcy devoured the contents.

Dearest Fitzwilliam,

I know that I have caused you pain with my actions. Please do not despair. Please do not be anxious for my well-being. As much as I love you and Elizabeth there is another that I love more. You don't want to hear it, I know. That is why I waited as long as I could, until you and Elizabeth were married. I ask your forgiveness for the trouble I will undeniably cause you.

I know that Elizabeth will comfort you and support you with her strength over the next weeks. Be assured that I will write as soon as possible to let you know where and how to contact me. I hope you will not be too angry.

I am sure that you have many questions. As stern as you were with me after last summer's events I bear you no grudge. Although I was very resistant and said some terrible things to you at the time I do fully understand your objections. I just cannot put aside my feelings as easily as you would like me to.

George is due to leave for Canada in another few days and that is where I am bound. I have already drawn enough funds to get us a start and have a bank draft for the remainder of my fortune. Do not ask how I managed to obtain them. That would only make you angrier with me.

By the time you read this I shall be aboard a ship and en route for Canada, too.

Please, please do not worry about me, Fitzwilliam. I am determined to be happy. You know that George is the man I set my sights on from the time I was ten. I wanted no other. We will make a new life together in a new country. Wish me well. Your good opinion is the only other thing in this life that I need.

I will miss you. I'll especially miss seeing the children that you and Elizabeth have. I love you dearly. God bless you both.

Your loving sister,

Georgiana.

Fitzwilliam watched as his cousin's expression reflected the anger, sorrow and regret that Georgiana's words evoked. When Darcy reached the end, however, his rage was fully engaged.

"What was she thinking! Fitzwilliam, how could you let this happen?" he roared. "I left her in your care. How dare you allow this!"

"Darcy -."

"There is no excuse," Darcy interrupted impatiently. "You knew what happened last summer. You knew! How could you be so lax, so careless? Good God, how could you let my sister throw her life away?" His rage carried him back and forth across the room until finally collapsing into a chair he wearily faced his cousin and asked the question, awaited the answer he dreaded most. "Are they married?"

"No."

Darcy's face fell into his hands.

"Wait, hear me out," Fitzwilliam anxiously bid his cousin's attention.

"Where is she?" Darcy's voice cracked. "She must be brought home."

"That won't be easy." Fitzwilliam squirmed under the other man's piercing stare. "Don't you think I've looked for her? Don't you think I've pulled in every favour, every contact I have?"

Darcy sprung from his chair and began to pace again. "He won't be so difficult to trace!"

"No, he wasn't. At least, not once I knew where to look."

Shaking his head, Darcy pointed to the letter on the table. "You knew where to look. She said so, right there!"

"Yes! That is where I started! When I discovered Georgiana was gone and read her letter she had already had several hours' head start."

Darcy stared in amazement. "She was gone for hours before you knew?"

"Perhaps I should start at the beginning." The Colonel sighed heavily.

"Yes, you should!" Darcy snapped. "Let me hear just how incompetent you were."

"It really began on your wedding day." Darcy frowned but waved his cousin on. "Lady Catherine was determined to have you come to London and talk Anne out of some foolish plans she believed were brewing. I offered to do the job instead and she accepted. When Georgie and I returned to town I met up with the man who had been watching Anne for those weeks she had already been in London." Darcy nodded impatiently. He already knew of the surveillance of their cousin. He had helped to make the arrangements. "There were some suspicious behaviours so I also maintained a watch for a couple of days. When I joined him one morning Anne was gone."

"Gone?" Darcy's mouth hung open. "Don't tell me you lost both of them!"

Fitzwilliam squirmed. "Hardly that. Well... anyway, you can see how I was preoccupied. When I finally arrived here I found Miss Bingley in the house and she -."

"Miss Bingley?" Darcy thought the tale was getting more and more bizarre as it unfolded.

"She had come to visit Georgiana and it was she who discovered your sister's flight."

Darcy's eyes closed and he leaned his head back against the wall. "What have you done to find her?"

"I immediately set out for Southampton, sure that Anne had taken Georgiana to meet Wickham. I was too late. Or I had missed them on the road. Wickham had left Southampton already. Neither Georgiana nor Anne were to be found. I sent out every man I could find to scour the roads between here and all the ports along the south coast. Nothing. Every ship's manifest was checked but Wickham wasn't on any of them. Of course I tracked down his regiment. Not surprisingly he wasn't there, either. What I found, though, was even more disturbing. He had apparently purchased a commission in a cavalry unit in the North."

"Scotland!" Darcy whispered savagely.

"Yes," Fitzwilliam acknowledged. "Once I had that information it was simple enough to find evidence of his route along the northern road." He hesitated briefly. "Wickham was not travelling alone."

"Georgiana," Darcy groaned. "Then the letter was a ruse."

Chapter 38 ~ All's Well That Ends Well

Posted on Monday, 13 May 2002, at 6:26 a.m.

Well.....

"Georgiana," Darcy groaned. "Then the letter was a ruse."

Fitzwilliam shook his head at Darcy's words. "That is what I thought, too, but I was wrong. The woman was not Georgiana."

Confusion was in Darcy's eyes. "Then who....?"

"Anne." Fitzwilliam continued in the absence of any reaction from his cousin. "Anne had purchased Wickham's new commission. They had apparently been arranging this elopement for months! Her recent visits to her solicitors' have been to effect this new commission for him and to search out accommodations for them following the marriage. Wickham met her outside of Southampton and from there they travelled along the North Road to join his new regiment. Anne had already acquired a special licence and they were married en route. She left no detail unattended."

"This is what Lady Catherine feared." Darcy sighed. "Well, she could have done a lot worse."

"Yes," the Colonel agreed. "Wickham, at least, is not a fortune hunter. Otherwise he would have run to Scotland with Georgiana last summer when she lured him to Ramsgate."

That caught Darcy's attention. His eyes narrowed and he fixed his cousin with an ominous glare. "Where is my sister?"

Fitzwilliam started, his momentary relief at being able to resolve one issue now overshadowed by the inability to offer a similar conclusion to the other. "I had the ships' manifests thoroughly checked. Georgiana was not on any of those ships. As far as my investigation concludes, she did not go to Canada."

"Then her letter was a ruse!"

"Not necessarily. She may simply have boarded the wrong ship, made a mistake in the darkness. A young woman answering her description was seen on the deck of one of the outbound vessels, just not any on its way to Canada."
Fitzwilliam began to fidget like a raw cadet.

"Where has she gone, then?"

"Darcy -."

"Why hasn't she contacted me to let me know of her mistake?"

"Darcy, that ship was bound for Australia."

***

In the dimly lit corridor at Rosings Park the doctor emerged from Lady Catherine's chamber and shook his head at the waiting Mr. Collins. "She is resting comfortably now. I don't want anyone disturbing her. I'll return in the morning to see how she fared through the night."

The clergyman thanked the doctor profusely, bowing and following the man down the stairs to see him out the front door to his carriage.

In the Lady's chamber there was quiet. The fire burned low but steady and the maid went about her duties softly. The figure in the bed watched these movements with hooded eyes. Although she was still, her mind was racing. The events of the last week had been unlike any she had experienced.

If that little toad, Collins, hadn't been so punctual in delivering information I would have managed to escape the house in time and prevent these disasters from occurring. No, he had to come running over here the minute he learned something new, delaying my departure until any attempt would be useless.

Darcy marrying Elizabeth Bennet was not so bad. At least he was spared being ensnared by that upstart Miss Bingley!

A sharp cough caught the attention of the maid, who hurried to her Mistress's bedside. "There, there now, my Lady," she soothed. "Do not distress yourself. Everything is being taken care of."

Taken care of???? Taken care of???? What is that supposed to mean? It's far too late to be 'taking care' of any of them. Darcy has made the best decision of the lot of them. Fitzwilliam has fallen into the clutches of that scheming Bingley woman, and to think that his father supports him! Just what is the attraction of being married by special license all of a sudden? Is this some new trend in London?

And Anne! Oh, my poor darling Anne..... Nothing can rectify that situation. She has made a most grevious choice, indeed. Small consolation that this Wickham is no reprobate. His father was a steward! For my sister's husband, no less. I am not fooled by Darcy's placating manner. He was raised with Wickham. Of course he would defend him like a brother.

The maid was becoming alarmed at the increasingly agitated motions of her charge. "Please, my Lady," she begged. "You must remain calm. This will do you no good, only harm."

Lady Catherine's eyes closed and she willed herself to appear as relaxed as possible. Anything to make that twittering fool of a woman go away! When at last the room was quiet once more she opened her eyes and confirmed that the maid was safely occupied with some needlework in a chair by the fire.

Anne. Anne Wickham. Oh, I shudder to think of it. No title. An officer's wife. What does it matter that he has the rank and good character? He has no MONEY! Anne may be happy but she will not be moving in the first circles with such a husband. She will be spending her time amongst the common wives of the other officers!

Oh, I know whose fault all of this is. It's Darcy's. If he hadn't been so besotted with Miss Bennet he would have come to London when I asked. He would have convinced Anne to wait and then I could have made her see reason. Fitzwilliam would have been out of reach of that other woman's claws, too.

Now I am left with Collins and that bride he has chosen. What a sermonising little vexation she is! I'm the one who delivers lectures around here, not some country nobody from an entailed estate in the back of nowhere important! Who does this Mary Bennet think she is anyway? Her sister's marriage to my nephew does not entitle her to think if ME as her family! I have even been denied the comfort of my young niece. My sister's little girl, innocent Georgiana. Darcy's neglect there has wrought some serious consequences. Both he and Fitzwilliam allowed themselves to be completely overruled by the allurements of those women and brought dishonour upon their family with such disregard for their responsibilities.

Australia! Oh, poor Georgiana! What will become of her?

***

"Mary, my dear! Come quickly!"

Mrs. Collins appeared in the doorway of the parlour, clutching a copy of Fordyce's sermons to her breast, and raised an enquiring eyebrow in her husband's direction. "You had best come in and sit down," she said in a practical tone of voice to the sweaty faced man. "I'll ring for tea." She disappeared into the room and pulled the bell to call the servant. Mr. Collins trailed behind, waiting until she had taken a seat before he chose one for himself, slightly to the left and perched on the edge of the sofa.

"Mary, the most dreadful thing has happened!"

"They do seem to be coming fast and furious recently. Trouble, they say, loves company." She put the book on the table beside the chair and folded her hands in her lap. "Now, what has upset you. Have you not just come from Rosings?"

"Yes," he puffed, taking out a handkerchief and wiping his forehead. "It is Lady Catherine. Oh, the most terrible scene...."

"You told her of Miss Darcy."

"Of course. That is what I went thither to do. She did not take it well." He shuddered and closed his eyes in remembrance.

Mary pursed her lips. "I should imagine she did not."

Her husband bowed his head. "That is when she began to twitch."

"Twitch?" Despite herself, his wife leaned forward to hear more.

"Yes, twitch. And moan, and groan in the most horrible manner!" Mr. Collins began to squirm in his seat. "I attempted to soothe her, offer words of condolence for the loss of her niece but it seemed not to help!"

"Indeed?"

"And then.... and then it happened!"

Mary's eyes were wide. "What?"

He leaned closer, put a hand to one side of his mouth as if to impart a secret. "She swooned."

Mary sat up straight. "Swooned?" she repeated, disbelievingly.

Nodding his head vigourously, Mr. Collins raced through the rest of his tale. "She fell back in her chair. I have never seen such a sight! Her eyes rolled back, right back into her head. Arms were twitching. I thought she would twitch right off of the chair to the floor!"

"What did you do?" breathed Mary.

Puffing out his chest, he said, "I called the servants. The doctor was sent for. But Mary, you will not believe what he told me." He waited while she watched him impatiently. "It was a stroke, he said."

"A stroke!"

"A stroke. And what is worse." Once again he paused for effect. "It has left her without the power of speech!"

***

And thus Georgiana Darcy left her life in England behind, headed out across thousands of miles of ocean until finally reaching the Australian shores. It was frightening at first but Georgiana was stronger than she appeared and soon found herself a niche in the society of the burgeoning frontier.

She also found herself a man - or he found her, for a woman of strength was a valuable commodity on the harsh rural landscape. Men had buzzed about her almost from the moment she had stepped off the gangplank. Georgiana Darcy, however, had flirted, had fun and entertained no serious attachments until a certain sheep rancher appeared on her doorstep with a ready smile and a mischievous eye. She immediately bid adieu to her life in the small town and took up a new one in the outback where she and her new husband enjoyed a hard but satisfying life.

Georgiana wrote to her brother and sister-in-law once she was settled, assuring them of her happiness with her choice. She encouraged them to come and visit, to see for themselves what she had learned in this new land that could not have been taught in the old.

In later years Georgiana had no cause for regret, looking back on a life full of challenges, battles won and lost, but most of all a fulfilling life with her husband and their 27 children, many of those little sheep shearers, as well. ;)

The End.

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