Blurb: Louisa Hurst dies in childbirth, leaving Gregory Hurst with a daughter, Madeline. Louisa’s death has impact on her siblings as well. Madeline is now three years old, and Gregory Hurst is considering finding her another mother.

Author’s note: For fun I have included small snippets of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in each of the chapters of Finding Another Mother. These could be used in different situations and by different characters than in the original. Also, this is the first “chapter” story that I have attempted. Thanks for reading. Jen


Chapter 1 : TO HERTFORDSHIRE WE GO

Fitzwilliam Darcy had accompanied his friend, Charles Bingley, to Hertfordshire. Charles had leased Netherfield Park and desired Darcy’s company and advice on estate management. With the death of both of his parents, Charles was the head of the family. His father’s dying wish was for Charles to purchase an estate and become a landed gentleman. Mr. Bingley decided to lease Netherfield Park with an option to buy it if he found Netherfield suited him. His friend, Mr. Darcy, was the master of his own family estate as his own dear parents were no longer alive. Mr. Darcy had been brought up from birth to run an estate and therefore had the experience that Mr. Bingley lacked. Mr. Bingley also brought along his sister, Caroline Bingley, to act as hostess and manage the household for him. The rest of his party was made up of Gregory Hurst, his brother-in-law, and Madeline Hurst, his niece who was three.

Mrs. Louisa Hurst had died in childbirth when Madeline was born, and her death had a profound effect on all the family. Mr. Hurst, who was somewhat of a sloth when Louisa was alive, was now busy managing his investments and property to make sure his daughter, Madeline, was well provided for. Caroline Bingley, who previously was determined to marry well and was in pursuit of Mr. Darcy for a marriage partner had also changed her tune. She saw how Louisa had suffered and was now determined to never have children. Mr. Darcy who had a large estate and needed an heir was no longer a target of her affections. Caroline also became less self-absorbed and doted on Madeline who was her only remaining link to a sister that she truly treasured. Charles Bingley who could still be called affable was a less lively man than he used to be, as a part of his heart was continuing to mourn his sister Louisa.

Upon entering Hertfordshire, Mr. Bingley had met Sir William Lucas who lived in the neighborhood. Sir William had invited the Netherfield party to an assembly in Meryton. Tonight was the night of the assembly. Charles was determined to attend as he wanted to meet as many of his new neighbors as he could. He asked everyone in his party to accompany him and Mr. Darcy and Caroline accepted the invitation. However, Mr. Hurst opted to stay at Netherfield with his daughter.

As they entered the assembly Mr. Bingley was greeted by Sir William. Mr. Bingley promptly introduced his sister and Darcy to Sir William. After the perfunctory introductions Darcy and Caroline walked off to the edge of the room. Mr. Darcy did not particularly enjoy dancing especially with ladies in which he did not have a previous acquaintance. He preferred to watch and not participate in the activity and Caroline was good company to converse with. Sir William looked around for his wife and daughters but could not see them in the crush of bodies, so he ushered Mr. Bingley over to Mrs. Bennet and her daughters and made the introductions. Charles Bingley was introduced, in birth order, to Miss Bennet (Jane), Miss Elizabeth, Miss Mary, Miss Kitty and Miss Lydia. Charles eagerly asked Miss Bennet for a dance and she agreed.

Mr. Darcy, who was standing at the edge of the room talking with Caroline, happened to spot Bingley dancing. He glanced over at Bingley’s partner and was mesmerized. He could not take his eyes off the lovely lady that danced with Bingley. He wondered who was this enchanting creature? She moved like an angel and with her blue eyes and blonde hair she was a classic beauty. He also surprised himself that he was so entranced with her. He had never felt such a strong attraction before. He wondered to himself, “What is happening to you Darcy?”

As the dance was ending Darcy excused himself from Caroline and made his way to where Bingley was ushering Jane off of the dance floor. Mr. Darcy came upon them. “Charles, I see that you are enjoying the dancing this evening,” he stated. Charles replied, “Indeed I am Darcy.” Mr. Darcy could wait no longer and asked, “Charles, would you do me the honor of introducing me to your dance partner?” Charles replied in the affirmative and the introduction was made. Darcy took no time in requesting a dance from Miss Bennet and she politely accepted.

As they were dancing Mr. Darcy was a very engaging partner asking Miss Bennet all about the area, her family and herself. Jane who, as always, was very serene and genteel answered all of his questions politely and even inquired as to his impression of Hertfordshire. Darcy could not take his eyes off of Jane while dancing and almost made a wrong turn in the dance, but this misstep was averted due to his superior dancing abilities and the several hours of dance lessons that he had taken as a youth.

After their dance, Darcy could not bear to part with Miss Bennet and asked her if she would like to rest a bit and sit down with some punch for the next set. She agreed to this scheme. Darcy then went off to get them some punch and when he came back, he made sure to sit right next to her.

Meanwhile, Charles Bingley was finally introduced to Sir William’s family. Charles met Lady Lucas, Miss Lucas (Charlotte) and Miss Maria. Bingley greeted them all politely but when he looked into Charlotte Lucas’ eyes, he felt a warmth that washed over him. Charlotte Lucas had a good heart and morals but most often was considered to be plain and ordinary. However, Charles was intrigued. He quickly asked Miss Lucas for a dance and was accepted. Mr. Bingley asked Charlotte, “Do you talk by rule, then, when you are dancing? Or would you prefer to be silent?” Charlotte answered, “Conversation would be most agreeable.” Consequently, while they were dancing Bingley was able to talk with Miss Lucas and he became more interested in knowing her better.

Back at Netherfield, Gregory Hurst had read Madeline her bedtime story and tucked her in for the night. He began thinking that he should be about the business of getting her a mother. She was getting older and a woman’s insight and caregiving would be most beneficial for his Madeline. He did not think it would be necessary for him to find “true love” for himself as his love for Madeline would make up for that. What he needed was a mother for his daughter more than he needed a wife for himself. He mused that siblings for Madeline would also be a benefit to marrying again. “Well, Gregory, a wife hunting we will go then!” he chuckled to himself.

The ride back to Netherfield in the carriage saw Charles wistfully looking out the window and sighing. He was thinking of Charlotte Lucas and wondering if it would be proper to call on her tomorrow. Mr. Darcy was silent but battling with himself quietly in his head. He could not figure out what the allure of Jane Bennet was, but he could not shake thinking about her, so he gave in to those thoughts of their night talking and dancing together and a small smile appeared across his face. Caroline was also in deep thought. She had danced several times but was now thinking of how she used to discuss the aftermath of dances with Louisa and how she was now sadly deprived of Louisa’s insights and company.

Chapter 2 - A NEW DAY DAWNS

The next morning Mr. Darcy asked Charles if he would like to call on the Bennets with him. Charles thought this was an excellent idea and added that they should call on Sir William Lucas first to thank him for inviting them to the assembly. Mr. Darcy agreed that to visit Sir William first would be proper and the gentlemen took off riding on their horses to begin their visits.

Gregory Hurst decided to take advantage of the nice weather and take Madeline on a walk outdoors. Caroline was excited about being the lady of the house and wanted to organize the staff and menus, so she remained at home.

When Charles and Mr. Darcy called on the Lucases they were cordially invited inside. Lady Lucas called for cake and tea then they all settled in the lounge with Sir Lucas, Miss Lucas and Maria as well. Sir William, Charles and Darcy were in a deep discussion of what crops were best for planting in the area. Charlotte joined their conversation as she had taken on the job of crop management and seedbed rotation after her only brother, John, died last year.

When Charles found out that Miss Lucas oversaw the crops, he asked her if she could show him some of the improvements that she had made to the acreage at Lucas Lodge. Sir William favored the idea and Charles, Charlotte, Mr. Darcy and Maria set off to explore the fields outside. Charles offered his arm to Miss Lucas and Mr. Darcy offered his arm to Miss Maria. As they were walking Charles could not take his attention away from Miss Lucas’ eyes and the kindness he saw in them. It was not beauty per se, but a warm, loving kindness that he felt when he looked at her. It was like he had found peace and happiness. Yes, happiness. That was it! Charles actually felt happy.

After their tour of the land the gentlemen thanked their host and said that they were going to call next on the Bennets. Charlotte and Maria told them that they were also on their way to Longbourn to visit the Bennets. So, it was decided that they would all walk together. The gentlemen escorted the ladies with one arm and guided their horses along with their other hand.

When they arrived at Longbourn, the maid answered the door and announced that the Miss Lucases had arrived. She then announced that Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were also paying a call.

Charlotte and Maria were expected. That the Miss Lucases and the Miss Bennets should meet to talk over a ball was absolutely necessary. But Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were a surprise. Mrs. Bennet who was most excited about these gentlemen callers remained calm. It may seem surprising that Mrs. Bennet could be excited inside but put on an air of calmness outwardly, but she had been practicing meditation for a few years in order to pull this off. Mrs. Bennet had found a book on meditation in her husband’s library and read it from cover to cover some two years prior. She had convinced herself that a mother possessing a calm demeanor would more likely promote her daughters to would be suitors. She used “mmm” as her mantra to calm herself. After cheerfully instructing the maid to send the visitors in she cautioned her daughters to not discuss their impressions of the assembly until after the gentlemen had left.

Maria quickly settled between Lydia and Kitty. Mr. Darcy took a chair directly across from Jane. Charlotte and Mr. Bingley sat on a settee near Jane and Mary sat next to her mother. Elizabeth had risen early and gone out on a ramble and was still outside. Mr. Darcy engaged Jane in conversation about music, books and even crops! Charlotte continued her discussion with Mr. Bingley about the best seasonal crop rotation practices in the area. Maria, Kitty and Lydia talked of ribbons, fashions and lace. Mary watched the scenes unfold around her and wondered if anyone would care for a music recital.

Tea was brought in for the group. Mrs. Bennet was all atwitter inside upon seeing the attention Mr. Darcy was lavishing on her eldest daughter and needed to calm herself and started muttering “mmm.” When Mary looked at her quizzically, Mrs. Bennet added, “Mmm…this tea is exceptionally delicious.”

After a quarter of an hour, the proper amount of time for a call, the gentlemen rose to excuse themselves. They asked the Miss Lucases if they required an escort home. The ladies replied that they were not leaving yet as they had been invited for a light lunch. Upon hearing this, Mrs. Bennet immediately invited the gentlemen to stay as well. Before Bingley even had a chance to think about it, Mr. Darcy blurted out, “We’d be delighted to stay Mrs. Bennet. Thank you.” Charles then nodded his head in agreement.

Earlier, Elizabeth Bennet had escaped the house and was determined to go walking. She was spunky and quite pretty but not in the same way as her sister Jane. Elizabeth had dark curly hair and an enchanting laugh and dearly loved to laugh. As she was walking, she noticed a nicely dressed gentleman with a small child. The child was coaxing her father, “Please Papa, can we please find a pond?” The gentleman looked perplexed; he wasn’t sure if he could find a pond or if it would even be wise to do so. Elizabeth came upon them and offered to show them a small pond which was close by. He thanked her and agreed to follow her to the pond. He had introduced himself as Mr. Gregory Hurst staying at Netherfield Park with his brother Bingley. He also introduced Madeline. Elizabeth exclaimed, “I met Mr. Bingley at the assembly last night. I am Elizabeth Bennet and reside at Longbourn which is but three miles from Netherfield.” He replied that he was glad to meet her, and they made their way to the pond where many frogs and tadpoles were seen, and some splashing occurred. Upon her introduction to Miss Bennet, Madeline curtseyed and said, “Hello to you Misbeth.” Mr. Hurst laughed and said it is “Miss Elizabeth, Maddie.” But Elizabeth replied, “If it is all the same to you Mr. Hurst, Misbeth is fine with me.” So, to Madeline, Elizabeth was to be Misbeth.

Mr. Hurst thanked Elizabeth for her kindness and after about half an hour they parted ways. Elizabeth to go back to Longbourn and Mr. Hurst and Madeline would return to Netherfield. Gregory mulled over his meeting with Elizabeth. She was attentive and positive with Madeline. Maybe she was a possibility to be the next Mrs. Hurst.

Elizabeth returned to Longbourn just in time for the luncheon. Mr. Bennet, after the introductions of the gentlemen were made, escorted his wife into the dining room. Darcy escorted Jane, Mr. Bingley offered his arm to Charlotte and the others followed behind. Mrs. Bennet had carefully arranged the seating. Mr. Bennet was at one end of the table with Jane to his right and Darcy to his left. They had much conversation between the three of them and with Mary who sat next to Mr. Darcy. Darcy was surprised that no one commented on his wealth or asked questions about the grandness of his estate. The only mention of his property was when Mary asked him where he hailed from, and he told her Derbyshire. She then asked him how that county compared to Hertfordshire. This was a noninvasive question which he could quickly answer. He had never felt so at ease in a new situation.

Mrs. Bennet was at the other end of the table presiding over the rest of the group. The conversation at this end of the table was lively amongst the three youngest girls. They were talking about bonnets and dresses. Charlotte and Elizabeth spent time in conversation with Mr. Bingley. Mr. Bingley, who was an agreeable guest, spent most of his time answering questions about himself and his impression of Netherfield and the surrounding area. Mrs. Bennet, being very excited and overwhelmed with enthusiasm that was being repressed, was frequently heard muttering, “mmm.” No one thought this was unusual as the cook had outdone herself and the meal was quite tasty.

The gentlemen voiced their thanks for the meal, retrieved their horses and returned to Netherfield. The ladies, safely ensconced in the drawing room, started to chat about the assembly. Charlotte, Elizabeth, Jane and Mary formed one group and the younger girls giggled amongst themselves. Mrs. Bennet was content to watch over them all. Charlotte and Elizabeth were teasing Jane about the amount of attention that Mr. Darcy was paying to Jane. But Jane, being truly humble, insisted it was only because he was new to the area and had made few acquaintances so far. She added that he was a most polite and handsome gentleman, but she seriously did not think that he had any specific designs on her. Elizabeth also chimed in that Mr. Bingley seemed to spend a great deal of his time in Charlotte’s company. Charlotte brushed this off by saying that since he was also new to Hertfordshire, he was just seeking her advice. Mr. Bingley had a keen interest in the agricultural offerings of the area and that since she was quite the expert in what to grow, that it was only logical that he would seek out her and her suggestions. Elizabeth did not quite believe both of their explanations however she decided to change the subject and they discussed the musical selections that were played at the assembly instead.

Chapter 3: IT COULD BE YOU

Back at Netherfield Mr. Darcy was thinking of a way to get to be in Jane’s company again and Charles Bingley was hoping that there would be a way to see Charlotte Lucas again. They disclosed their interests in each of these ladies to each other and decided to help each other achieve their respective goals of spending more time with the lady who had captured their attention. To this end, Mr. Darcy asked Charles if he thought that Caroline would be amenable to asking the elder two Bennet ladies (as he reasoned that Miss Bennet would be more comfortable if one of her sisters accompanied her) and Miss Lucas to luncheon some time that week at Netherfield. Charles approached Caroline about the scheme, and since she liked to entertain, she was only too happy to oblige. The invitations for lunch were sent out for three days hence. Charlotte was overjoyed by being so specifically invited that she made haste to Longbourn to tell Elizabeth and Jane. When she discovered that they too would be attending it was decided that they all would ride together in the Lucas carriage as her father had already offered it. The three invitees were very excited to accept but even more excited was Mrs. Bennet who could be heard muttering, “mmm” about almost everything in sight.

The luncheon at Netherfield went off without a hitch. Everyone truly enjoyed themselves. Caroline had been careful to plan every detail from the menu to the seating arrangements. Caroline sat at one end of the table with Gregory on her right and Elizabeth on her left. Charles was at the other end of the table with Darcy on his right and Charlotte on his left. Jane was seated between Elizabeth and Darcy. During the luncheon Caroline had time to get to know Elizabeth better. Both ladies found common ground in their admiration of Madeline, and they found each other to be someone that they could befriend. Everyone enjoyed the lunch and conversation. After the meal was complete, Mr. Bingley suggested a stroll in the gardens. They all agreed that it was a splendid idea and Mr. Hurst said that he would go upstairs and get Madeline to join them. As they set off for a walk, Mr. Bingley escorted Miss Lucas, Mr. Darcy escorted Jane, and Mr. Hurst escorted Madeline leaving Miss Bingley and Elizabeth to walk together. Ten minutes into their walk one of the servants came to retrieve Miss Bingley, as there was some kind of kerfuffle at the house. As she left to attend to the matter, Mr. Hurst asked Elizabeth to join him and Madeline. Madeline was excited to be in “Misbeth’s” company again and insisted on holding “Misbeth’s” hand as well as her father’s, so they walked with Maddie between them.

Jane and Darcy never seemed to run out of things to talk about. They were now discussing their favorite books and authors. He was putting every ounce of his energy and charm into getting Jane’s attention and hopefully engage her affections. Mr. Darcy was acting in a manner so opposite to his usual mien. He usually did not want to raise the expectations of young ladies, however now he found himself wanting to get Jane’s notice. Darcy had never before been so bewitched by any woman as he was by her. He did not know what was happening to him, but he was genuinely enjoying being in Jane’s company and felt an excitement and happiness that had eluded him for so many years.

Charles Bingley was discussing family with Charlotte. He even told her about Louisa and about the emptiness that encompassed him when he thought of her. Charlotte in turn, talked about her brother John and how she missed him terribly at times. They both felt that they had found someone who could understand their grief and loss and they gained comfort from each other in that fact.

Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst were swinging Maddie between them, and much laughter and giggling was to be heard from that quarter. Mr. Hurst was impressed at the ease and playfulness that he saw between Maddie and Elizabeth. Could Elizabeth be the mother that was needed for his daughter? He wasn’t sure yet, but they did paint a pretty picture together.

When they returned from the walk, the ladies’ carriage was called for and they left for home. Mr. Darcy and Charles sequestered themselves in the study to talk about the day. Mr. Darcy indicated that he wanted to go to London to retrieve his sister, Georgiana. Since his parents were deceased, Georgiana was his closest living relative. He really wanted her to meet Miss Bennet. Charles suggested that he accompany Darcy to London as he had some business there that would only take a day or two and then they could return with Georgiana together. Therefore, it was decided that they would leave together in two days’ time.



Chapter 4: OFF TO LONDON AND BACK

Before they left for London, Mr. Darcy wanted to take his leave of the Bennets. He rode out to Longbourn on the day of his departure to fare them well. He was invited in and made a beeline to sit by Jane. She was working on some embroidery and immediately put it down upon his arrival. He announced to all that he would be off to London to pick up his sister so that she may join him at Netherfield Park. He then privately asked Miss Bennet if she would allow him the honor of introducing his sister to her when they returned. Jane gladly consented and soon Mr. Darcy was off to meet up with Charles for the ride to London. Mr. Bingley made his farewells to the Lucas family, and to Charlotte in particular. He said that he planned to be gone no longer than a week. The gentlemen had decided to ride out on horseback and return to Hertfordshire in Mr. Darcy’s carriage. Thus, they rode off together with hopes and dreams of the future secured in each of their respective minds and hearts.

Georgiana Darcy was surprised but delighted at her brother’s unexpected arrival in town. Darcy explained that he desired her to return with him to Hertfordshire as soon as Mr. Bingley was done with his business in town. Georgiana was more than happy to comply with his request and busily got her things ready for the trip. Mr. Darcy talked with Mrs. Annesley, Georgiana’s companion, about his plans for Georgiana and it was decided that Mrs. Annesley would go to visit her daughter and family for the next three months. As Mr. Darcy was the best of employers, he insisted on providing for her transportation to her daughter’s home as well as her salary during this time. Mrs. Annesley was pleased with these arrangements and happily agreed to them.

As it is well known that the power of doing anything with quickness is always prized, Charles Bingley settled his business in town in one day. Never before had he been so industrious! He was working so fast it was like he was a spinning top! Charles was ready to leave on the morrow for Hertfordshire. Darcy was pleased to leave earlier than expected and plans were made for them to leave town right after they set Mrs. Annesley off on her journey.

After arriving at Netherfield and being greeted by Caroline and Mr. Hurst, Darcy and Bingley made plans to visit certain young ladies. Darcy was beside himself with anticipation. He hoped that Georgiana would form a bond with Jane (Jane, not her proper title of Miss Bennet, is how he treasured her in his thoughts and in his heart). He also had high hopes that Jane would find Georgiana agreeable. His greatest desire was for the two women that he cared for the most would like each other and be friends. He suddenly thought, “Whoa! When did Jane become so important to him? She was as equally important to him as the sister he had known for the last fifteen years, and he had barely known Jane for a month! Were things happening too fast?” Fitzwilliam Darcy decided he did not care if things were happening rather quickly. The test for him would be the meeting between Georgiana and Jane. His anxiety about tomorrow’s visit with the Bennets did not wane but somehow, he was able to sleep and dream of a life with Jane and Georgiana and he was filled with happy thoughts.

The next day Mr. Bingley left mid-morning to pay a call on the Lucas family. He was not disappointed to find Charlotte at home and spent quite a bit of time in her company. He realized that he had missed her while he was in town. Her smile and her eyes especially had a calming quality and he felt secure in her presence. He felt like he was at home. Charles was blissfully happy when Charlotte was near.

Meanwhile, Fitzwilliam Darcy and Georgiana called on the Bennets. He was relieved to find Jane at home and promptly introduced Georgiana to the Bennet family. Mrs. Bennet called for tea. Mrs. Bennet was bursting with enthusiasm at the earlier than expected arrival of Mr. Darcy. That he brought his sister along with him to introduce to Jane spoke volumes of his intentions. She was so excited that she could hardly manage to take a sip of tea. She had to fall back on her handy mantra of “mmm” several times. It served her well as she did indeed not shriek with delight, nor faint, nor nervously pace the room. However, her nerves were so tightly wound that she could neither converse nor eat. That left the rest of the room to proceed on their own.

Jane and Georgiana, along with Mr. Darcy, were having an animated conversation about everything one could think of. Georgiana was immediately comfortable in Jane’s presence. Jane’s gentleness brought out a confidence in Georgiana that had been missing for several months. Georgiana’s usual shyness was nowhere to be found when she conversed with Miss Bennet. She felt at ease with Jane and found her to be a caring and a proper lady. Darcy was overjoyed. He sat back after the initial few minutes of banter and just watched as his “two ladies” interacted with each other. His hopes and dreams were seemingly coming together.

Chapter 5: TRIPS AND GUESTS

Darcy and Georgiana would either go to Longbourn or Jane and Elizabeth would visit Netherfield daily. The relationship between Jane and Georgiana grew closer. Mr. Darcy was pleased. Jane Bennet was different than the ladies that he usually met. She was beautiful, kind, caring but also quite intelligent. Jane did not simper and defer to him, avowing him to be correct on everything. No, Jane would calmly state her opinion on a matter and back that opinion up with her reasons. Darcy found that her beliefs were well thought out and he admired her greatly for her intellect. Mr. Darcy desired to see Jane at his estate, Pemberley. He wanted to see if she approved of it and if she would enjoy being there. He concocted a plan where he would have Georgiana invite Jane and her sister Elizabeth, who was now known as Lizzy to Georgiana, for a month’s long stay at Pemberley. He also would ask the Netherfield party as well as have Miss Lucas invited to accompany them. Georgiana issued the invitations, and everyone accepted. They would leave in ten days.

There was much excitement about the upcoming excursion to Pemberley which was in Derbyshire County. Jane was beginning to allow herself to believe that Mr. Darcy was interested in her. She enjoyed his attentions and being with him made her feel special and happy. She thought him everything that a proper gentleman ought to be. Charlotte was having the time of her life. She had never had such an active social life as she did presently. She was invited to attend teas, luncheons, and even walks. She was over the moon about the invitation to Pemberley. She also was enjoying Mr. Bingley’s regard for her advice. Elizabeth found joy in seeing her sister and friend happy. She also was forming a friendship with Caroline as well as Georgianna. Elizabeth looked forward to visiting Derbyshire as she had never been in that part of the country before.

During this time of preparation for the trip, Mr. Collins, a cousin of the Bennets, came for a visit. The estate of Longbourn was entailed to the male line. Mr. Collins was the nearest living male relative to Mr. Bennet and thus would inherit Longbourn upon the demise of Mr. Bennet. Mr. Collins was immensely proud of his position as a clergyman. He considered it his Christian duty to select a wife from one of Mr. Bennet’s daughters as that would keep the estate “in the family.” He was the rector of Hunsford parish, and his patroness was none other than Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who happened to be Mr. Darcy’s aunt. However, upon knowing him for less than a half hour he proved to be a pompous, silly and conceited man who was constantly bragging about his position and his patroness. He even found it necessary to inform his cousins that his esteemed patroness had installed shelves in the closets at his home. While this may seem like an innovation even Lydia, who rarely paid attention to such matters, wondered where one would hang the coats and dresses.

Mr. Collins inquired as to the reason for the hustle and bustle at Longbourn. His cousin Jane explained that she and Elizabeth had been invited by Miss Darcy for a visit to her home in Derbyshire. Mr. Collins’ eyes lit up. "Miss Darcy, you say?” he asked. “Why Miss Darcy is the niece of my patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Mr. Darcy, her brother, is engaged to Miss Anne de Bourgh!” Mr. Collins stated with aplomb. Jane and Lizzy looked at each other with questioning looks. Lizzy asked, “How do you know about this engagement Mr. Collins?” He answered, “Lady Catherine, herself, has stated that fact several times in my presence. By the way, you ladies are in for an exquisite time as Pemberley rates only second in elegance to Lady Catherine’s estate of Rosings Park.”

Jane excused herself from the group citing important business to complete upstairs. Lizzy followed her shortly. Jane was sitting on the edge of her bed looking somewhat downcast. She was thinking, “Why has Mr. Darcy been paying me so much attention, if he is engaged? Have I really misunderstood his attentions to me? Is he an honorable or dishonorable man? How can I reconcile his conduct?” Lizzy knocked on the door and entered. “Jane are you well?” she asked. Jane answered her, “I do not know what to think! I believe Mr. Darcy to be honorable. But why has he been showing so much interest in me while he is engaged to another? The only thing I can think of is that he is looking for a new companion for his sister and that he is considering it to be me!” Lizzy disagreed with this assessment. However, Jane continued, “Miss Darcy herself told me that her current paid companion is the widow of a retired clergyman. Mrs. Annesley, her companion, is more like a grandmother. Perhaps she is thinking of resigning her position? After Mr. Darcy met me, he wasted very little time in getting Georgiana here to meet me. Now he wants me to be at Pemberley. I think he wants to hire me as Georgiana’s new companion. This is the only sense that I can make of everything.”

Jane looked sad but being the strong woman that she was she stated, “Lizzy, we will keep our plans to visit Pemberley as we cannot disappoint Georgiana. However, if Mr. Darcy makes an offer of employment to me, I will have to let him know straight away that he is a gentleman, and I am a gentleman’s daughter. So far we are equal and I could not be expected to work for him. Thus, I would need to refuse the offer no matter how much I enjoy the company of his sister.” Deep in her heart Jane was disappointed. She had thought that Mr. Darcy was showing a preference for her. Well, all that thinking would have to be changed. Jane realized that she was very close to falling in love with Mr. Darcy. In order to protect herself from a heartbreak, Jane determined to put up a wall around her heart and not allow Mr. Darcy in. She rationalized that the only way to protect her heart was to never allow it to be touched. Jane decided that she would overcome this disappointment and be an agreeable guest. She and Lizzy started to finish their packing.

Chapter 6: PEMBERLEY

The time at Pemberley was truly wonderful. Pemberley was a beautiful and well managed estate. Georgiana proved to be a gracious hostess and their every need was attended to by a very well-organized staff. For Mr. Darcy, however, being back at Pemberley, after having been away for several months, required much of his time to be devoted to estate matters. Being a proper host, he did arrange some fishing with Bingley and Hurst on a few days but for the most part he was mainly in the company of his guests only in the evenings.

A genuine friendship was forming amongst the five ladies. During the day, the ladies would often entertain themselves with music, conversation and tea parties with Madeline. Georgiana had retrieved her childhood porcelain tea set from the attic and they would use it for the tea parties. The tea set had tiny cups, plates and even a small teapot. Georgiana arranged with the cook to provide small biscuits, scones and sandwiches. Caroline, Georgiana and Elizabeth took turns instructing Madeline how to be a proper hostess and how to serve the tea and refreshments. Jane and Charlotte enjoyed being the special guests at the tea parties. When Mr. Hurst and Mr. Bingley joined them, the cook was careful to provide four times as much of the “tiny” food so that they would all be satisfied.

Two weeks into the stay Caroline asked Charles to take her to Lambton which was about five miles from Pemberley. Caroline wanted to procure a small tea set for Maddie as a gift. Charles arranged to take her in a curricle and since it held three people, Charlotte was invited to join them. While they were away, Mr. Hurst kept Madeline busy entertaining her in the library by reading her Aesop’s Fables. He would embellish the voices of the characters much to Maddie’s amusement.

At this time Georgiana thought to invite Jane and Lizzy to see her mother’s rose garden. Jane favored the rose scent and distilled her own scents at Longbourn. Georgiana picked up on Jane’s preference for the scent of roses and thought she would especially enjoy seeing the rose garden. As she approached Jane’s chamber door to knock, she overheard Jane and Lizzy talking. Lizzy was saying, “Jane, I think Mr. Darcy really cares for you, I can see it in his eyes. Besides when you are in the room he rarely looks elsewhere.” Jane answered back, “Really Lizzy I cannot imagine that Mr. Darcy has any genuine interest in me when he is engaged to be married to Miss Anne de Bourgh!” Georgiana was mortified. Was her brother engaged to their cousin without him telling her? And was she truly an eavesdropper?

Georgiana quickly left Jane’s chamber door and immediately sought out her brother. He was in his study, and she rapped on the door in earnest. He bade her to come in. Upon seeing her heightened color, he was immediately concerned. “Georgiana, whatever is wrong?” he inquired. Firstly, Georgiana explained how she was shocked, utterly shocked, to find out that he was engaged to be married to their cousin Anne. Secondly, she stated that she was disappointed that he did not trust her enough with this bit of news to inform her of it himself. Darcy replied that he was NOT engaged to Anne and inquired from her how she obtained this information. Georgiana was ashamed to admit that it was through “accidental” eavesdropping. To say that Darcy was surprised would be an understatement. A false engagement accusation and a sisterly indiscretion of eavesdropping in one day! This was shaping up to be quite an inauspicious start to the day.

Darcy sat Georgiana down to get the details. When he found out that Jane believed him to be engaged, his heart sank. He asked Georgiana to help him get some time alone with Jane so that he could find out why she thought him to be engaged to Anne. The plan he suggested was for Georgiana to invite Lizzy, Jane, Mr. Hurst, and Madeline on a walk to the lake to ostensibly look for tadpoles. He would be waiting on the north side of the lake. The tadpoles would be on the other side. He would ask Jane to walk with him around the lake as everyone else would go looking for tadpoles. Having some distance between them and the rest of the group would give Jane and Darcy some time to talk privately while still properly being within the eyesight of chaperones. He indicated that Georgiana might have to seek Miss Elizabeth’s help in carrying out this plan. Georgiana, who was most relieved to find out that her brother was NOT engaged to Anne, was agreeable to help.

Everything was arranged and the group gathered for a walk to the lake. Georgiana and Jane led the way with Mr. Hurst and Lizzy each holding a hand of Madeline. As they got closer to the lake, they passed by a grove of white willow trees, and Mr. Darcy stepped out from behind them. He approached Georgiana and Jane and spoke quietly asking that Jane join him for a short walk around the lake while the others would be looking for tadpoles. He whisked Jane away but was careful to always remain in view of the others. Lizzy, being in on the scheme, with Georgiana’s help guided the remaining group to the far side of the lake. Fortunately for all they found many tadpoles. Lizzy hiked up her skirts and went into the shallow parts of the lake to fetch some for Madeline’s amusement. Georgiana and Gregory were highly amused as well. Splashing and laughing ensued and the group was a merry bunch. However, Lizzy’s ever watchful eye was often on Jane and Mr. Darcy.

When they were alone, Mr. Darcy addressed Jane, “Miss Bennet I have heard a most interesting tale that you have heard it rumored that I am engaged to my cousin, Anne de Bourgh.” “Yes, that is correct.” Jane sighed. “Miss Bennet,” Mr. Darcy continued, “I want to assure you that there is no truth to that rumor. Wherever did you hear this?” Jane replied, “My cousin, Mr. Collins, who is your aunt de Bourgh’s rector told us when he was visiting.” Darcy said, “Oh, I see. As much as my aunt may wish it to be true, it is not. You see my cousin is frail and in ill health. My aunt is desirous to see Anne well settled in case my aunt becomes incapable of taking care of her. She has decided that I would be the best candidate, so she often expresses her wishes as fact. I assure you that I have talked to Anne about this, and she has no desire to marry me, and I have no desire to marry her. I am a firm believer in taking care of family and if something did happen to my aunt and Anne needed help, I would not abandon her. As her cousin I would see that she would get the proper help necessary.” Jane was rather quiet. She was taking in all that he said, and she still wondered about his intentions toward her. She answered him with, “Thank you for dispelling this false rumor, Mr. Darcy.” She was much too affected in her own rising emotions to say much more.

They continued on their walk. Darcy was happy that Jane knew the truth. He so much wanted to tell her more, like how much he wanted her there with him at Pemberley permanently. “Whoa, Darcy. Pull back that thought,” he told himself, “You cannot declare yourself to Jane without having to leave Pemberley to go see Mr. Bennet. It would be most improper to be engaged without her father’s permission.” As a young man his father had instilled in him that, as a gentleman, requesting the approval of the father of an intended bride was the most proper and honorable thing to do. He continued with his thoughts, “You will not act in a scandalous manner. You need to wait out these two weeks, old man, and then you can declare yourself to Jane.” But like a moth drawn to a flame, Darcy was helpless when it came to Jane Bennet. He finally said, “Miss Bennet, I would like to know what you think of Pemberley.” “I find it is the nicest estate that I have ever seen!” Jane exclaimed. She then continued, “It is so well situated and managed. I cannot find anything to disabuse it and wholeheartedly admire its beauty and design.” Darcy was very pleased to hear this.

Mr. Darcy feeling very happy at Jane’s positive endorsement of his estate decided to ask, “Would you then find living here at Pemberley to be an inducement to your comfort and happiness?” Now Jane, still thinking that Mr. Darcy was going to offer her a position as a companion for his sister, answered, “Mr. Darcy I want you to remember that I am a gentleman’s daughter. Even though I have four sisters I am not in a position to accept an offer of employment.” “What the devil is she talking about?” thought Darcy, “Employment? Employed as what?” “I have not the pleasure of understanding you, Miss Bennet,” he replied.

“Well, are you not looking for a replacement for Mrs. Annesley?” Jane asked. Darcy was shocked. Had Jane really no clue to his real intentions? He would have to dispel this line of thinking immediately. “Why Miss Bennet,” he answered, “I have no intention of finding a replacement for Georgiana’s companion, however I do have some serious intentions toward you. I find you the most beautiful and captivating woman of my acquaintance. And once we return to Hertfordshire, I would hope to ask you a more proper question.” He then winked at her, took her hand and kissed the back of it. Jane was in utter shock. Lizzy had the right of it, and she had been blind. Mr. Darcy did indeed care for her. Jane was slightly shaking from the contact of Mr. Darcy’s lips on the back of her hand. Not shaking in a bad way, but mostly a shiver of excitement. “We should be returning to the others, as rumors might start up,” teased, Mr. Darcy. So, the two made their way back and they all returned to the house as one big happy group.

The two remaining weeks at Pemberley found Jane and Darcy often in company. Mr. Bingley and Charlotte were also constant companions with each other. Charlotte was surprised at the handsome and wealthy Mr. Bingley paying her so much attention. Usually when Jane and Lizzy were around Charlotte played second fiddle to them. This was an unexpected yet welcome change for Miss Lucas. Lizzy and Mr. Hurst spent many hours talking, taking long walks with Madeline and playing chess. Caroline and Georgiana sometimes entertained each other with musical performances as they each were accomplished artists on the pianoforte. They both were in high spirits and excited about the pairings of the aforementioned couples. Georgiana longed for a sister and Jane was a perfect fit. Plus, Jane made Fitzwilliam happy. Caroline was pleased that Charles’ cheerfulness had returned and chalked that up to his time spent with Miss Lucas. She was also pleased with Mr. Hurst forming an attachment to Lizzy as she felt that Madeline would benefit from being in Lizzy’s care.

Chapter 7: RETURN TO HERTFORDSHIRE

The entire group retuned to Hertfordshire when the month’s stay at Pemberley came to an end. The Netherfield group returned to Netherfield Park, the Bennet ladies to Longbourn and Miss Lucas to Lucas Lodge.

Mr. Darcy wasted no time in asking Jane to marry him. They were scarcely back a week before he was meeting with her father to discuss settlement terms after receiving a “Yes” to his proposal. Mr. Bingley also was anxious to secure Miss Lucas’ hand which he promptly did. He felt she was the key to his lasting happiness and promised himself to provide for her happiness every day for the rest of his life. Mr. Hurst took a more businesslike approach in asking Lizzy to become his wife. He told her that he was not looking for the deepest love in a marriage. He was looking for companionship and for a mother for Madeline. Elizabeth fit the bill in both areas. As his wife she would be free to pursue any endeavor that she fancied, and that he would support her interests. He also let her know that he was desirous of having more children. Elizabeth listened to his proposal with interest and told him that she would give him an answer in two days.

Elizabeth had a lot to think about. Previously, Jane and Elizabeth had made a promise to each other that they would only marry for the deepest love. Elizabeth found Jane visiting with Charlotte in the parlor at Longbourn. She asked both of the newly engaged ladies to come up to her room to talk. She asked them if they were marrying for the deepest love. Jane hesitated. She could not say yes. She remembered her most recent secret decision to never let Mr. Darcy into her heart. Jane replied that Mr. Darcy was an honorable, trustworthy, wealthy, handsome and attentive gentleman. That she would be a fool not to marry him when he asked her. She liked him and enjoyed being in his company, but it was not the deepest love. Even so she was very happy with her decision. Besides, Mr. Collins was planning a return visit in the future, and she did not want to be available as a possible selection to be his wife she joked.

Charlotte never thought that love should enter into the equation in a marriage. She said that she found Mr. Bingley to be a successful, caring, and agreeable gentleman. She very much enjoyed being in his company and was overjoyed that he wanted to marry her as she thought she would never get an offer of marriage. Much like Jane, she indicated that she would be a fool not to marry him. However, she added that unlike Jane, she thought that Mr. Collins would be a good catch as a husband.

Elizabeth mulled over her thoughts about Gregory Hurst. He was good company and an interesting person to converse with. He was easy going and she got along well with him. He was industrious and took loving care of Madeline and would make a good father to future children. Elizabeth laid out the proposal from Mr. Hurst in her head. She also would have “free rein” to do many things. Plus, she absolutely adored Maddie. Would she be a fool to turn him down? Jane and Charlotte were not marrying for deepest love, so was love really that important? Also, when she thought about Mr. Collins as a possible marriage partner, she could only think, “Eew.” She definitely did not want to be available when Mr. Collins returned.

Two days later Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst were engaged. It was agreed upon by all parties that Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst would marry in a double ceremony alongside Jane and Mr. Darcy. Mrs. Bennet was ecstatic. She was frequently overheard saying, “mmm...” when making the wedding preparations and planning the wedding breakfast. She would mutter, “mmm...” to calm her nerves, but everyone thought she was “mmm…ing” in deep contemplation.

The banns were read for all three couples. The weddings would take place in three weeks. It was decided that Charlotte and Charles would marry on a Tuesday. Then Jane and Darcy along with Elizabeth and Hurst would marry three days later on a Friday.

Lady Lucas was overjoyed with planning Charlotte’s nuptials. She hosted a large wedding breakfast at Lucas Lodge after the ceremony. Mrs. Bennet held no ill will for Lady Lucas’ festive mood. After all, she herself would have the grand honor of hosting a wedding breakfast in three days for a double wedding! After the wedding breakfast, the newly married Bingley’s decided to stay at Netherfield Park. In order to give the newlyweds some privacy, Caroline, Georgiana and Madeline relocated to Longbourn. For the same reason, Darcy and Hurst moved to a boarding house in Meryton until their weddings.

Happy was the Friday that Mrs. Bennet oversaw the double wedding of her two eldest daughters. The wedding breakfast at Longbourn was excellent. Many people attended and they were all of them warm in their admiration. There were a lot of compliments to the mother of the bride and plenty of “mmms” ensued from the lady herself. Due to the quickness of the wedding, Mr. Darcy’s only relative to attend, besides Georgiana, was Colonel Fitzwilliam. Colonel Fitzwilliam was cousin to the Darcy siblings, and he also shared guardianship of Georgiana with Darcy. He was in the army and very close with his cousins. He wholeheartedly approved of Jane after seeing the happiness that radiated from Darcy when Jane was around.

Jane and Darcy spent their first few weeks as newlyweds at the Darcy townhouse in London. Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst also went to London after their wedding and stayed at his home. Caroline and Madeline rode in the carriage with the newly married Hursts to London and were dropped off at the Bingley townhouse where they stayed. Caroline had gifted Maddie the tiny tea set and they enjoyed tea parties daily. Elizabeth and Hurst were often seen visiting Maddie during their two-week honeymoon. They too delighted in participating in tea parties with Maddie and Caroline. However, Mr. Hurst often would have to have an additional snack after arriving back home. Georgiana returned to London with Colonel Fitzwilliam and stayed at the Colonel’s parent’s home. The Colonel’s parents and brother were on a six-month holiday to the continent and were thus unable to attend the wedding.

Lady Catherine de Bourgh declined to attend Mr. Darcy’s wedding as she could not believe that Mr. Darcy would go against her wishes regarding whom he should marry. Due to Lady Catherine’s displeasure of having a Bennet woman pollute the halls of Pemberley by marrying her nephew, Mr. Collins did not attend the weddings either. He even went so far as to rescind his offer to marry one of his cousins. He felt that his allegiance to Lady Catherine trumped his “Christian duty.” To say his cousins were upset with his decision would be a falsehood. Inwardly the three remaining unmarried Miss Bennets all breathed a sigh of relief.

Life for our three newly married couples was all that they could have hoped for. Jane proved to be a formidable mistress of Mr. Darcy’s homes and was beloved by all. The newlyweds would spend every evening together for several hours discussing the events of the day. They would usually sit together, or Jane would be on his lap and they would take turns reading to each other. Mr. Darcy was deliriously happy and life was good.

Mr. Bingley desired Charlotte’s opinion on every business venture and every estate matter. He found her sensible and quite well informed. His sister Caroline made it her mission to spruce up Charlotte’s image and took her shopping to expand her wardrobe. Caroline also convinced Charlotte to try different hairstyles which suited her quite well. Several times Charlotte would be on the receiving end of Mr. Bingley’s effusive compliments. She found she very much enjoyed being called “quite pretty” and “fetching” by her husband. The Bingleys were a couple that leaned on each other and were most happy when they were together.

Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst settled into a comfortable rhythm. He would work on his business interests during the day and spend time exclusively with her a few hours each week. Often you could find them debating a topic, playing chess, or just reading side by side. Elizabeth loved being mother to Maddie and found great joy in teaching her to sound out letters. Elizabeth was very satisfied with her choice and her life. Mr. Hurst also did not neglect Maddie and spent several hours a day with her. He too was satisfied with his choice of a wife for himself and a mother for Maddie. Madeline still referred to Elizabeth as “Misbeth” and Mr. Hurst joined her in using this epithet when referring to Elizabeth. Elizabeth longed to be called mama but remained patient. She was waiting for Madeline to feel comfortable with addressing her as such. Overall, the three members of the Hurst family melded well together.

Chapter 8: FIVE MONTHS LATER

Five months had gone by since these couples were married. The Darcys were staying at their townhome in London and the Bingleys were residing at their London residence. The Hursts were away at their estate. It came about that one of Mr. Bingley’s business interests needed to have some materials delivered from London to the main factory. The factory was about a one-hour drive just outside of London. Charles determined to deliver it himself as it was a short drive and a beautiful day. He asked Mr. Darcy to accompany him, and Mr. Darcy accepted. He decided to take an open dray wagon as it was a better fit for the materials. It was a bright sunny day when the two gentlemen set off and they had much to talk about in the hour it took to drop off the items at the factory.

On the way back home, the sun disappeared and the temperature dropped dramatically. Since it started out as a nice day, the gentlemen had forgone taking their great coats with them and only had on their lighter weight tailcoats. Soon it began to rain. A huge cloud burst open and dumped a large amount of rain on them and on the road. It became difficult to navigate the dray wagon and the road became very muddy. They were between towns, and no one was around to help them, when they suddenly felt the wagon list to one side. The wheels on the right side of the dray wagon were stuck in the mud. After an additional hour of pouring rain, they were finally able to dig and pull the wheels out of the mud and get their wagon back on the road. However, when they did arrive back in London they were soaked to the bone.

They landed first at Darcy’s home. He had his carriage man take over the reins of the dray wagon and had a footman drive Bingley the few blocks home in a dry carriage with blankets and rugs to warm him. Jane took over the situation at the Darcy townhouse. She ordered two footmen to assist Mr. Darcy up the stairs. She also had a roaring fire made in his room and a hot bath prepared. The doctor was promptly sent for and when he arrived, he advised that Mr. Darcy stay in bed and be kept warm and to make sure he was taking in plenty of fluids.

When Mr. Bingley arrived home, he was soaking wet and shivering. Charlotte asked his valet to bring down his robe and had Charles take off his clothes downstairs. The valet and a footman helped Charles up to his room. Charlotte had a blazing fire prepared and hot bricks were placed in his bed to warm him up. The doctor also visited Mr. Bingley and gave much the same advice that had been given at the Darcy household.

Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley were finally dry but they both succumbed to a fever and sleep. Georgiana would sit with Jane at Fitzwilliam’s bedside. She was deeply concerned about her brother’s health. However, when Jane spoke soothingly to her and reassured her that Fitzwilliam was strong and would most assuredly make a recovery she felt more at ease. Jane really helped Georgiana to feel calm.

However, Jane was anything but calm herself, as she was very worried about her husband. He was delirious with fever, and she rarely left his side. She began to think of what her life would be like without Fitzwilliam. Her conclusion was that he was necessary for her existence, and she felt a pull at her heart at the thought of being without him. All the effort that Jane had consciously put in to fencing her heart off from loving Fitzwilliam came to no avail. It began to dawn on her that she loved, yes, absolutely loved him. Jane thought, “It has been coming on so gradually that I hardly know when it began,” but she knew that she was deeply in love with her husband. She asked the maid to sit with him for awhile and to alert her if there was a change in his condition. She crept into her adjourning room and removed the choker that Fitzwilliam had given her from its box. It was a ruby encrusted heart hanging from a black velvet ribbon. She carefully tied it around her neck. This heart was a tangible symbol of his love and she wanted him to see her wearing it if he woke up. No, when he awoke, she corrected herself. She eased herself back into the chair by his bed, dismissed the maid and continued on with her bedside vigil.

Charlotte was having a similar time with Charles. He was feverish and tossing around in bed. Charlotte had dressed in a hurry in order to be with Charles. She had forgone dressing in the more stylish way that Caroline had promoted but opted for a simple brown dress that she brought from Hertfordshire and her hair was in a tight knot on the top of her head. She entered Charles’ room and sat in a chair beside his bed trying to coax a few drops of liquid into him. She thought of how her life had changed since Charles had entered into it. She surprised herself with how much she relied on him. He was the only person with whom she felt comfortable sharing her real self. She could not imagine her life without him, nor did she want to. He was everything that was dear to her. She loved Charles. Yes, genuinely, and totally, Charlotte loved her husband! She made up her mind that she would do everything in her power to make his recovery possible and his life the happiest. A tear rolled down her cheek. Charlotte, who never considered love important was hopelessly and completely in love and the thought that Charles might not survive terrified her.

Chapter 9: AN AWAKENING

Three days later, while Jane Darcy sat by her husband’s bedside he began to move about. Jane immediately had the doctor sent for. Darcy was dripping with sweat. His fever was breaking. Jane felt that her prayers were at last being answered. She sat by his side brushing the hair from his forehead with her fingers. She spoke to him in a quiet voice coaxing him to take a sip of tea from a spoon. Darcy felt her fingers on his head, heard her voice, inhaled the rose sent and through the slits in his half-opened eyes he saw her blonde hair and ruby encrusted choker. “She was here, really here,” his thoughts were a bit jumbled. But he knew that the angel caring for him was his Mother! He tried to say the word “Mother,” but his throat was so dry that only a soft “mmm” could be heard.

Jane spoke in a soothing voice, “Fitzwilliam, it’s Jane, I am here. Please open your eyes and come back to me.” Darcy shuddered. “Jane?” he thought. “Not Mother? I have mistaken my wife for my mother? I married a replica of my mother?” His attraction to Jane seemed like a scene from Oedipus Rex – was he really in love with his mother? The joy and serenity he felt when he was with Jane was reminiscent of how he felt as a child with his mother. “Egad! Till this moment I never knew myself! I am a sick man!” He chastised himself with disgust. Darcy opened his eyes a tad more and Jane lovingly smiled at him. The doctor arrived not much longer after that and declared that Mr. Darcy was over the worst of it and needed to stay abed for three more days before he could be up and about.

Mr. Bingley was at a similar stage in his recovery. He was sweating profusely as his fever was breaking. Charlotte sat by him and mopped his brow with a cool cloth. She was trying to get him to take a sip of bone broth and asking him in a sweet voice to please try a small amount. Bingley began to open his eyes; he felt the cool cloth, saw the drab brown dress and the tight bun. His immediate thought was, “Mother!” However, he too had a dry throat and all that he could produce was a “mammm” sound. Charlotte was ecstatic. Charles was rousing. She called for the maid to send a note to the doctor informing him of Mr. Bingley’s current condition. As he fully awakened, he saw that it was indeed Charlotte and not his mother attending to him. “Mother,” was what he was screaming in his head, but it was Charlotte instead. He realized that the kindness that he perceived in Charlotte’s eyes was very similar to the kind gaze that his mother bestowed on him as a child. Did the solace that he felt in Charlotte’s presence in some way make him feel like he was with his mother? He thought about the story he had read at school about Oedipus Rex. In the story Oedipus marries his mother. Was he a demented man who somehow married someone because they reminded him of his mother? Bingley was in agony and realized that he must really be in love with his mother. Was he losing his mind? He felt a loathing for himself. He shut his eyes and pretended to be too tired to keep them open but subsequently he did happen to drift off to sleep.

Ten days after the rainstorm Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley were both totally recovered physically. Perhaps a bit paler than usual but they could be up and about. Their psyches and emotions were another story. They had not shared with anyone their almost identical revelation concerning their marriages. Mr. Darcy tended to avoid Mrs. Darcy as he could not reconcile his “revelation” with the conduct of a gentleman. Mr. Bingley, while he did not have the personality to ignore Mrs. Bingley, moped around and was sullen. Both Mrs. Darcy and Mrs. Bingley were concerned for their husbands, but each was hopeful that with time a full recovery in every sense would be made.

It just happened that Colonel Fitzwilliam, also known to his intimates as Richard, arrived at the Darcy townhouse to check up on his cousin, Mr. Darcy. When he arrived, Jane was downstairs and saw him come in. She moved quickly to greet him; however, her demeanor was anything but joyful. Jane seemed down and out, and the Colonel noticed it at once. He immediately thought that something was wrong with Darcy. He asked if he could talk with her in private in the drawing room. She agreed. Upon peppering her with questions he was able to draw out of her that Darcy, while physically healed, was distant and seemed sad. Jane was beside herself on what to do to help him. Richard told her that Darcy was very protective of his family and especially of Jane. He said that he thought perhaps he was staying away from her to protect her from the illness that he had sustained. Jane thanked him for his insight. He then said that he would go see Darcy.

Richard knocked on the door to Darcy’s study. He was bid to come in. Richard was pleased that Darcy was no longer confined to bed but was concerned that he still looked pale and thin. He also noticed the sadness that surrounded him. Darcy did not want to open up about what was bothering him. Richard threatened to “liquor him up” to get the truth out of him. Mr. Darcy finally agreed to tell Richard his worries only if Richard would keep it confidential. Richard agreed. Thus, they were holed up in the study for more than two hours.

Darcy told him about awakening from his fever to find a blonde angel smelling like roses, wearing the Darcy heirloom ruby choker, brushing his hair from his forehead, coaxing him to wake up and take some tea. At that point he knew that this angel must be his mother however, it was really Jane instead. He then went on to explain that he thought he was like Oedipus Rex and that his attraction to Jane was really an attraction and desire to be married to his mother. He described himself as despicable.

Richard was repressing a slight smirk. “Richard, this is not funny!” bellowed Darcy. “Sorry,” replied Richard, “I truly cannot believe that you are serious in all that you just told me. Plus, I think you have the wrong of it. Let me ask you a few questions.”

Richard asked, “First, would you say that you had good parents?” Darcy replied most vehemently, “Yes!”

Richard continued, “Who was your role model on how to be a gentleman and run an estate?” “Why, my father of course!” replied Darcy.

Richard then asked, “Would you say that your parents had a good marriage?” “Yes!” cried Darcy.

“Was your mother a perfect fit for your father?” Richard inquired. “I believe so.” answered Darcy.

Richard paused for a few moments, organized his thoughts and then summed up, “One, consciously you aspire to be like your father. He taught you how to be a gentleman. Two, your mother was a perfect wife for him. By observing her you saw what characteristics she possessed to make her the ideal wife for him. Three, unconsciously you were looking for someone who had some of these characteristics that you in your head deemed essential for a happy marriage. You found that someone in Jane. Four, Jane is not your mother and has her unique differences. Yet in a few things, your so-called unconscious essentials needed in a wife, she does resemble your mother.”

“Let’s compare,” Richard continued, “Jane is compassionate, your mother was compassionate. Jane can make people feel comfortable; your mother could make her intimate acquaintances feel comfortable. Jane is soft spoken, and your mother was soft spoken. Jane is intelligent and will express her own opinions as did your mother. Now for some differences. Your mother was born to the aristocracy, Jane is the daughter of a country gentleman. Your mother was the youngest sibling, Jane is the eldest. Jane thinks the best of everyone, your mother did not. Jane is strong and will stand up for those she loves, your mother often did not.”

“Darcy, you did not marry your mother!” cried, Richard. “You married an exceptionally fine and wonderful woman who has qualities that compliment you. Some of those qualities may be the same ones your mother, Aunt Anne, had but are not the sum total of Jane. As far as looks, yes, they both have blonde hair, but several ladies do. They both favored rose water, as well half the ladies in London. And the ruby heart choker, really? It was your mother’s but you gave it to Jane, your wife, as a gift. Do you really want to fault her for wearing it?” Richard continued, “As far as Oedipus Rex goes, he was given up by his parents and did not even know who they were when he became married to his mother. There is no comparison here. You married someone who exemplified good character and qualities some of which were present in your excellent mother.”

Darcy had much to think about. Could Richard be correct? Richard wasn’t even married; however, everything he said made sense. Darcy realized that he had been a fool. He could only blame his illness and that it had weakened his usually discerning mind. He told Richard that he wanted to tell Jane all. Richard cautioned him not to tell her that he thought she was just like his mother as no woman wants that type of comparison coming from the lips of her husband.

Richard left the study to seek out Georgiana for a visit. Darcy sought out Jane and invited her into the study. Jane could immediately see the change in her husband by the way he ushered her into the room and how he embraced her. He declared himself to be a fool and that he was madly in love with her. She in turn let him know that she too deeply and totally loved him. Nothing was mentioned about his mother. They only talked about themselves and their future together.

The next day brought Mr. Bingley to the Darcy townhouse to see Mr. Darcy. Bingley was beside himself with worry. He wanted to get Darcy’s advice on what to do about thinking that Charlotte was his mother and that could he possibly be in love with his mother? Being that Darcy had gotten some good advice from Colonel Fitzwilliam about the same subject, he was able to help Charles. Charles realized that Charlotte did indeed possess some of the admirable qualities that his mother had like good business acumen, common sense, and a tenderness for him when he was ill. However, his mother thought meanly of others much like Caroline used to, where Charlotte did not. His mother also coddled him where Charlotte helped him to be a better man. That his mother almost always wore drab colors, and a tight bun was of no worry as Charlotte, especially with Caroline’s help, rarely did. Thus, Charles was able to go home with a spring in his step and a lighter heart. He and Charlotte returned to their pre illness happy existence.

Back at the Hurst estate Gregory and Elizabeth were attending a tea party hosted by Madeline. As they sat around the small table, with their small cups and plates, Maddie addressed her father, “Papa would you care for a cup of tea?” Mr. Hurst replied with an enthusiastic, “Yes, please!” After pouring out her father’s tea, Maddie next asked Elizabeth, “Mama, would you care for a cup of tea?” Elizabeth was immediately taken off guard. However, she was sensible enough to answer her with, “Why that would be most delightful Madeline dear.” Elizabeth choked back her tears of joy. Madeline was recognizing her as her mother, and she was thrilled. Mr. Hurst had a wide smile spread across his face. Elizabeth and he made eye contact with each other. They both were smiling and delighted at this turn of events. From that day onward Elizabeth was “Mama” to Madeline. Mr. Hurst desisted in calling Elizabeth “Misbeth” however he sometimes did refer to her as just “Beth.”

Occasionally, Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley would sound like Mrs. Bennet. Sometimes, for Darcy, the waft of rose water coming from Jane or a quick glance from Bingley at Charlotte when she was dressed in her Hertfordshire drab brown dress would catch the gentlemen off guard. They would inadvertently begin to address their wives with saying “Mother.” However, they could catch themselves and just stop with a long drawn out, “mmm.” They were then able to finish their sentence with something inconsequential, as “mmm, nice day we are having today,” or “mmm, looks like rain.” Jane or Charlotte never considered this odd since both gentlemen oversaw an estate and as such the weather was always a concern.

As things turned out, the destiny for all involved ultimately revolved around Mr. Bingley’s decision to let Netherfield Hall. When arriving at Hertfordshire so many months ago, Bingley, Darcy and Hurst never expected to be “Finding Another Mother.” However, in some ways they all did.