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Chapter Fourteen -- Children in the Park

Posted on Wednesday, 18 April 2007

The following day, each of the Gardiner children had their own reasons for stirring from bed bright and early. Elizabeth and Jane had promised to take them all on an outing in the park not far from their house. The boys were all excitement to try out their fanciful kites their father had helped them build the weekend before their cousins arrived. The weather was mild for December, and the wind was ‘perfect flying weather' Mr. Gardiner had stated at breakfast.

Mrs. Gardiner looked out the window and agreed, "For it being December, the weather has been unseasonably warm. You should have a fine day for your outing, Jane and Elizabeth."

"I want to feed the ducks," announced Jenny, asking, "Can we have some stale bread to bring, Mama?"

Her mother laughed gently. "I think cook might have a bit left over for your use, but you must help your cousins tend your younger brother and sister."

"I will," Jenny promised.

"That's a good girl," her father patted her on the head.

As the children are donning their outerwear with the help of the servants, Mrs. Gardiner took Elizabeth and Jane aside. "I am grateful that you have come. It gives myself and their father the needed time to shop for gifts to bring to Longbourn for the children to open on Christmas morn."

Elizabeth kissed her aunt's cheek. "You know we enjoy them so much, Aunt."

"We are happy to enjoy their company," Jane added, hugging her Aunt Gardiner good-bye.

"Ellie may tire more quickly than the older ones, and will you see that James remains in his coat the whole time. The weather is mild at present, but the housekeeper's arthritic knee assures me that a cold snap is likely in the near future."

Elizabeth laughed at this, asking, "How is it that Mrs. Murphy can predict the weather, Aunt?"

Mrs. Gardiner laughed in her turn as she began kissing all her children good-bye. "Something about her joints aching when foul weather is due, but she had never been wrong. I depend on her for the forecast." Turning then to address her children as a group, she admonished, "Take care, my loves that you obey your cousins faithfully," softening, she added, "Enjoy yourselves until your return."

The four youngsters all promised their compliance to her directive as they scampered out the door, all parties waving as they departed quickly down the lane.

The park was not far from Gracechurch Street, and the day early enough not to have much of a crowd as yet with tired throngs of Christmas shoppers taking a respite from their task. With a bright sun, Jane and Elizabeth herded the children down the path toward the small lake in the park's center.

James and Edmond picked flattened pebbles and began pitching them into the water, trying to make them skip along the surface. This fascinated Elizabeth enough to join them while Jane and the girls looked on. She and the boys took turns with Elizabeth accomplishing a three skip throw which each soon accomplished as well to her praising.

Suddenly there came a stone scooting after theirs that skipped four times before it dropped into the water. Edmond exclaimed, "Cousin Lizzy, what a great throw!"

Elizabeth could not take credit for it, and opened her mouth to disclaim his praise when a familiar voice piped in from behind her. "I believe that was mine, Master Edmond."

They all turned around, startled to see Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, both smiling at their confusion. Jane and the girls curtseyed followed by Elizabeth curtseyed while signaling the boys to bow. The gentleman did likewise as she began, "Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. How-"

"We stopped by your Uncle's house to find out that you had taken the children for an outing in the park." This came from Bingley, his eyes straying to Jane's as he eagerly continued. "We came to join you."

"You are most welcome, sir," was Jane's shy reply as ten year old Jenny smiled up at her cousin, thinking it romantic to see Jane smitten.

Little Ellie ran up to Darcy's legs and hugged him happily. He reached down and picked her up, taking care not to frighten her. Their smiles were genuine at the prospect of sharing the day. He turned to the ladies, asking, "I hope you do not mind our company. We do not wish to intrude if you have made plans."

Seeing how well Ellie took pleasure being in his arms, Elizabeth relented of any doubts to have the gentlemen join them. "I think the children would enjoy having strong arms help their kites to take flight, Mr. Darcy."

"We would be delighted to be of assistance, but first," he smiled as he handed her a perfectly flat pebble, daring her to best his throw. She knew instantly of his unspoken wager with his arched brow.

Smiling back, she nodded, walking to the edge of the pond, palming the stone to get the proper feel of it. Taking her stance, she measured the stone's weight again before pulling back her arm and with a flick of her wrist sent it flying across the water where it skipped, once, twice, thrice before it lost momentum to plop into the lake. This was followed by clapping from the children.

Shrugging, she neared Darcy to have Ellie reach out to have Elizabeth take her while Darcy smile smugly, whispering, "I will have to think of an appropriate forfeit from you."

"In the meantime, we have kites to fly, Mr. Darcy."

"I want to feed the ducks," complained Jenny, who knew the boys would be reluctant to allow her to hold the kite string."

Jane spoke up, "I will stay by the water with you while the boys walk over the hill to try to get the kites in the air. We can join them afterwards."

Bingley offered, "I will remain with Miss Bennet while you help the boys, Darcy."

Both Darcy and Elizabeth tried not to roll their eyes at such obvious manipulations as they agreed to the plan and herded the boys along to their destination. Ellie signaled Darcy to take her once more, which he eagerly accepted. Easily carrying the child in his arms, he and Elizabeth escorted the boys towards the nearby field to begin the launch of the kites. Passing under the lower branches of an exceptionally ancient tree Darcy glanced over as he heard Elizabeth sigh longingly only to see his smirk, at which point she inconspicuously shook her head with a smile.

Reaching the top of the knoll, Darcy handed Ellie back to Elizabeth and took possession of both the string balls mounted on sticks. Inspecting the kites, he pronounced them both soundly made and flight ready. At such praise coming from one whom they highly regarded as knowledgeable, each of the boys smiled proudly over their's and Mr. Gardiner's combined efforts in the construction.

Giving each their kites back, Darcy instructed, "You must run down the hill as fast as you can and when I call out, release your hold."

Each boy bobbed their heads in eager anticipation and began their run while Darcy played out the strings he held in his hands. Soon they heard his shout of, "Now!"

James's kite sailed off effortlessly and was soon high in the sky while Edmond's floundered, looping round and round threatening to crash to the ground or into the nearby trees. Handing Elizabeth James's line, he directed, "Just keep tugging on the string to have the wind lift it higher." He took off down the hill to aid Edmond get his kite aloft as well.

By the time James had joined Elizabeth at the top of the hill, Darcy and Edmond had succeeded in getting his yellow diamond in flight with a coat of arms Edmond had made up for his family, it's colorful tail trailing beneath, letting the wind carry it high into the bright sky.

Handing the string stick to James, Elizabeth smirked to Darcy, "Mine is still is higher than yours, Mr. Darcy."

Darcy smiled at their unspoken wager. "We have only begun our flight, Miss Bennet." At this he quickly jerked on the line several times to have Edmond's kite sail higher in the sky, trying to obtain the height of James's bright blue one decorated with a bright yellow lion face. Then he handed the line to Edmond to continue playing out string.

Both adults stood behind the boys atop the small hill as all enjoyed watching the two colorful diamonds sailing the currents of air to join a few wayward birds flying passed. Soon other kite enthusiasts had joined them to have the sky filled with a multi-colored show of shapes and sizes flying in company to Edmond's and James's kite. Darcy's distinct figure, standing on the knoll juxtaposed among those much shorter than himself drew the attention of a passing officer.

Halting his horse, he called out, "Darcy! Is that you?"

Hearing his name, Darcy frowned at the interruption until he identified who had recognized him. Instantly he smiled seeing it was his cousin. As Richard approached them while still mounted, Darcy instinctively put himself between the horse and Elizabeth while he came forward to greet him. "Richard, I did not you were to be in town."

"I did not think I could mistake your towering silhouette amongst a horde of scampering children."

Richard dismounted, and bowed at the lady holding a toddler. Darcy hugged Richard who was still somewhat stunned at the sight of Darcy in so relaxed a mood while in public.

"It is good to see you, Richard. I had not thought the war would allow you any time off."

"Being attached to the General's staff requires my traveling to the London Headquarters from time to time, which affords me the opportunity of a visit with mother and father to keep them from worrying overmuch for my safety." His eyes had never left the young woman with the child standing mutely beside the boys too engaged in their own activity to take much notice of the new arrival. He added, "Would you do me the honor of introducing me to your friends, Cousin?"

Sheepishly, Darcy complied. "Of course, I beg your pardon, Miss Bennet. This is my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, briefly in town from his unit. Richard, may I introduce Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Hertfordshire along with her cousins, Edmond, James, and Ellie Gardiner."

Elizabeth curtseyed, and the boys bowed as best they could while holding tightly to their kite strings. Ellie shyly tucked her head into the crook of Elizabeth's shoulders. "I am happy to make your acquaintance, Colonel," mischievously adding, "If I should ask how the war goes, would you tell me anything significant?"

Her dancing eyes implied her jest to which Richard instantly responded in kind, "I would tell you all, Miss Bennet, but alas, then would need to incarcerate you so as not to hamper the war effort."

Gasping and feigning fright, Elizabeth then smiled, "Then, pray tell me nothing of import, I beg you!"

At this Richard laughed out loud, instantly taking a liking to this unconventional young woman's pertinence. Turning to his cousin, he noted, "I say, Darcy, Miss Bennet is quite different from the vapid creatures that normally gather around you like a flock of geese in the same vein as that younger sister of Bingley's. Is he in town as well?"

All the while Richard was thinking, At least the child does not belong to this young woman. She appears rather young to be the mother, but these days one never knows.

"Yes," said Darcy trying not to feel slighted by the easy rapport between Elizabeth and Richard. Pointing further into the park, he added, "He accompanies Miss Bennet's elder sister with another of the Gardiner children that we left to feed the ducks."

Richard nodded, taking note of the fact that not only did Darcy choose to associate with this lovely young woman while she accompanied her own young cousins on an outing, but that he seemed to actually be enjoying himself with the youngsters, especially the littlest miss.

I suppose that should come as no great surprise. Darcy always did have a knack to put children at their ease, even my sisters when they were still toddling.

"I am just now going to the townhouse for a short stay with mother and father before I have to return to my command."

Darcy's eyes widened in surprise at this news. "Your parents are yet in town? I thought they would be at Matlock by this time of year."

"That was their original plan until father had some unexpected business with his solicitor that necessitated their delay in returning home."

This thought led Darcy to suddenly realize, "Then...Georgiana is still in town?"

"As far as I am aware, she remains with mother and father as the plan was set for you to join them at Matlock on your way to Pemberley when you tired of Hertfordshire. Was your trip to town so unexpected that you neglected to inform her of your arrival?"

"Since I had no knowledge of your parents' delay, it never occurred to me to write Georgiana here to say I would be in town at this time."

"Then let us go join her at once," he said in his teasing manner. "I am sure she will be happy to see her wayward brother a week or two ahead of time."

Reluctant to leave Elizabeth with so little notice, Darcy asked, "Are your parents' plans set to depart as soon as the earl's business is completed?"

"That I do not know, but it would seem logical. In all likelihood, they would leave not soon afterwards."

Darcy turned to Elizabeth, his face radiating the joy that came from anticipating his sister's company. "Miss Bennet, I wish to introduce my sister to you."

Surprised but flattered at this news, Elizabeth stated, "I would love to make her acquaintance, Mr. Darcy. If she remains in town until the end of the week, I am sure we could include her at supper on Thursday."

Darcy paused before saying, "I meant this afternoon, Miss Bennet, for I have no idea when she plans to depart, and there mightn't be another opportunity in the near future."

"But Mr. Darcy," began Elizabeth, "I see not how to accommodate you without bringing the children home earlier than my Aunt expected, and-"

Not to be gainsaid, Darcy offered, "Then, let us bring them along with us. I am certain my sister would love to meet them, and my own Aunt easily abides well mannered children. Surely you and she would get along famously."

Darcy's suggestion took Richard by surprise. Never had his cousin been so impulsive when it came to either Lady Eleanor or Georgiana, especially not after what had occurred to her earlier in the year with that rascal Wickham.

Whether or not Elizabeth had witnessed the Colonel's surprise and subsequent reluctance to the rashness of such a plan, Darcy was determined to follow it through. "Richard, go on ahead and announce our impending arrival. We will gather up the children and come within half past the hour."

"Very well, Darcy," he consented, anticipating the amusements that would soon transpire. Turning with his voice lowered for only Darcy's ears, Richard added, "I hope you know what you are about, Cousin." To this Darcy quickly nodded and Richard shrugged at Darcy's single-mindedness of a plan that was sure to garner sparks.

When he mounted his horse, Darcy again stepped in between while Elizabeth informed James and Edmond of the change of plans. The boys, who had been privy to the adult's conversation, had already begun reeling in their kites with as much chagrin as their little faces could muster at having their outing shortened.

Before Richard was out of range, he overheard Elizabeth's playful voice say, "You still lost the wager, Mr. Darcy when James' kite flew much higher than Edmond's. I will have to think of an appropriate forfeit for you."

To this Richard heard his cousin's reply in kind, "And you, Miss Bennet must do my bidding for losing the stone skipping contest for which I will have to think long and hard to deem an apt forfeit in return."

"Then we are agreed?"

"Yes, we are agreed."

Richard shook his head at the way the two of them conversed. It was as though they were two peas in a pod. This caused him some worry.

She looks fair young for the likes of such an old soul as Darcy.

Gazing back, he saw her accept his arm and smile up at him.

Perhaps that is just what he needs to begin to enjoy life again, or perhaps she is an old soul, too.

To have his cousin's lively demeanor returned with greater frequency would be a wonder, Richard decided. He would love to have that old Darcy to share his life again the way they used to as children, before all the sadness had overtaken Darcy's existence.

Perhaps this young woman has that ability. One can only hope.

Having reeled in their kite string, though begrudgingly, the two boys ambled back to where Jane, Bingley and Jenny were by the duck pond. Darcy and Elizabeth followed closely behind in pleasant conversation.

"Have you thought of an appropriate forfeit you wish of me?"

Elizabeth smiled. "Yes, though it might not be to your liking. I wish to have you decide on which lace to give my mother as a Christmas gift, and-" Seeing a frown descend upon his face, she continued, "You are not going to reject this one too after doing so with my first suggestion?"

"No," he sighed after some thought, adding, "though I lack the knowledge as to which would be the best to decide upon. Am I allowed to inquire of the proprietor as to quality and cost? I will also depend upon your judgment as to your mother's preference."

"Of course," Elizabeth looked away, pursing her lips to not laugh aloud at the thought of Mr. Darcy asking such questions to one in a modiste shop.

"You must know that I have also thought on your forfeit as well."

When she turned to take in his smug countenance, she began to worry over what he had decided upon. "What is it?"

"While you would have me out shopping, I would like to drop in at my club with you joining me."

"Sir, that is highly improper. I could not possibly-"

"There will be no impropriety if your Uncle Gardiner accompanies you."

"My uncle? Why would he have the slightest interest-?"

"Did I not mention my awareness of his and your father's interest in chess?" Seeing her frown without understanding, he continued his explanation. "Before we joined you in the park, we stopped by the Gardiner's house to converse with your Aunt for some moments. It was she who spoke of Mr. Gardiner's interest in the game and I of my subsequent invitation to have him join me at my club whenever he was at leisure as there are several members who are considered masters. If you were to join him, no one would think anything amiss."

"And what am I to do there? You cannot mean for me to simply watch my uncle contemplate his every move for the whole of an afternoon. I shall need a very thick tome."

Although she had spoken in a teasing manner, it was clear that with her uncle's deliberateness she would be bored to merely be a spectator. He smiled. "Oh no, Miss Bennet. I would set your uncle up with one of the other masters while I play chess with you."

She paused to give his suggestion thought, finally smiling at the novelty of it, but then asked, "My uncle has yet to agree to such a plan? His business keeps him extremely busy during December. He might not be afforded the time for what you desire."

Coming around the curve in the path to see Bingley and Jane approaching, Darcy concluded, "Then let us hope there will be one afternoon available for all of us to enjoy the pastime," adding, "I doubt Bingley would be interested in my continuing to triumph over him."

To this Elizabeth could make no response, for Bingley had stated something similar to her. He said that he would have no part in playing chess after she trounced him so decidedly one day at Netherfield while Mr. Darcy was out riding.

When the boys asked for the remainder of the bread to feed the ducks, Elizabeth sat beside Jane on a bench with Ellie crawling into her other cousin's lap.

After informing him of their soon visitation to the Matlocks, Darcy had little else of import to relate, and so stood quietly beside his friend watching the children. Clad in his great coat, which was a subdued grey, a color similar to that of the trunk of a tree caused some confusion for a young squirrel. Without warning, it ran the length of Darcy's body to perch on his hat to have the children squeal with glee at such an amusement. Darcy remained still to allow the animal to perch there until it realized it mistake.

Ellie, fearful that the creature would harm her new friend, cried out only to have Elizabeth soothed her fear. "I can attest to the fact that Mr. Darcy is very good at pretending to be a tree, Ellie, so good in fact that he can fool even a swarm of angry bees."

While Darcy remained still, the young creature stayed aloft, but hearing Ellie's fright, Darcy moved to have the squirrel know something was amiss with its present situation and scamper down into the safety of a real tree.*

He laughed as they began their journey out of the park, "Well, at least we know my ability to imitate foliage has not diminished, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth laughed along with the children as they made their way to the neighborhood of stately townhouses.

When Darcy and Elizabeth had ushered their group up the stairs to the stately door resplendent with an ornate, brass knocker, not only were the children intimidated by the grandeur. Jane and even Bingley seemed incapable of speech when the very proper butler answered their knock, his years of training allotting him to sustain his unruffled features at the surprise of Mr. Darcy in company with such a grouping.

"Gilford, I trust Colonel Fitzwilliam apprised you of our impending approach?"

"Yes, sir," replied the non-plus servant at such a contingent of eight individuals to see his lady and master, only his years of experience gave him training to barely raise an eyebrow at this most unusual circumstance. His voice remained as calm as ever. "I am to bring you into the large sitting room where Lord and Lady Matlock will attend you."

"Is my sister also in attendance, Gilford?"

"Yes, sir," said the dignified butler solemnly starting up the marble staircase followed by the silent entourage, the children being herded by the adults who whispered to them to hurry their steps and not dawdle with staring at the elegant furnishings on every wall and table.

Jenny whispered a reminder to her brothers, "You are not to touch anything!" Each nodded to her relief though even as her eyes fell upon several beautiful sculptures lining the walls that she would have liked a closer study.

The butler stopped before the double doors of the parlor, and with the flourish of years of experience, silently pushed both doors with the precise pressure, announcing, "Mr. Darcy and..." here Gilford seemed to falter but for an instant before recovering, "and party." He finished, bowing to his master and moving aside to have the earl witness the array forming before his and Lady Matlock's surprised eyes. Needless to say the smirk on Richard's face told Darcy that of having informed the butler, Richard had neglected to inform his mother and father as to the additions to Darcy himself.

Elizabeth, Bingley and Jane arranged the children easily to be presented to the Earl and Her Ladyship while Darcy neared his Aunt, kissing her cheek and shaking his Uncle's hand.
"Aunt Eleanor, Uncle Henry, it is good to see you if somewhat earlier than hoped. I had no idea of your change of plans until Richard spotted me in the park-"

"Flying kites," interspersed Richard raising his glass of wine to his cousin.

"Yes, we had taken the children on an outing when Richard came upon us to inform me of your still being in town. As he had no idea how long that would be, I wished to come immediately, but due to circumstances that I need not go into at present, it necessitated our party join me."

"As we now see," the earl quipped, eyeing the children, still motionless with awe.

Again glaring at Richard who shrugged unrepentantly, Darcy continued. "As my cousin has neglected to disclose that fact, allow me to make the introductions." He turned to see the four children standing quietly and smiled. "You are already acquainted with Mr. Bingley, of course."

"Of course," Lady Matlock nodded when Bingley bowed.

"Your Lordship, Lady Matlock, it is good to see you again."

The earl gave the merest bow in return.

Darcy continued. "Allow me to present Miss Bennet and her sister, Miss Elizabeth, and their cousins, Edmond Gardiner, Jenny Gardiner, James Gardiner, and Ellie Gardiner." Each bowed or curtseyed when their names was announced. Even little Ellie made an attempt though it was a bit clumsy.

Being presented, all the children sat back down quietly, which surprised Aunt Eleanor and Uncle Henry. Their skills of graciousness came into play in aiding them to remain poised during so unusual an occasion as Darcy was instigating. His relations were mystified by the unfolding event, especially Aunt Eleanor whose curiosity was piqued to know the reason behind Darcy's interest in this gathering.

Motioning them to a grouping of chairs, Lady Matlock offered some refreshments that Richard had conveniently arranged in anticipation of their arrival.

Jenny elbowed her younger brother, admonishing, "James, stop staring! Mama says it is not polite."

"But she is so beautiful, Jenny."

James nonetheless dropped his gaze and ate his biscuit quietly.

Lady Matlock's brow arched at such flattery. Though she had been married for five and thirty years and with four grown children, to have a little waif think her still beautiful was telling. How could she have known the little boy was referring to the young lady sitting directly beside Mr. Darcy and not herself?

Georgiana Darcy remained silent next her brother. Though he held her hand to give her courage to remain before such a large contingent of strangers, she barely raised her eyes. The only time she did so was to glance furtively from one to the other beautiful ladies, then to the littlest child who had snugly ensconced herself in Darcy's lap when the party took their seats, and who was now staring up at the face of her newest friend while all around carried on their conversations.

At a natural lull, Lady Matlock motioned as she remarked, "Nephew, I think you have acquired a new admirer."

Richard scoffed. "Just what you need, Cousin, another female infatuated with your wealth and connections." Darcy merely shook his head and smiled, turning to his Uncle who had asked him a question.

"Ha," Elizabeth giggled as she took a sip of tea.

This brought Lady Matlock's unstinting gaze upon Elizabeth's now blushing cheeks. "I take it, Miss Bennet, you are aware of my nephew's ability to attract the attention of many ambitious town mamas and their daughters?"

Pursing her lips to keep from laughing out loud, feeling at ease in this great lady's presence, Elizabeth nodded conspiratorially. "I have seen first hand such behavior, Ma'am, but it was not in town. I had that amusement while in my own village of Hertfordshire."

Lady Matlock was astonished that someone in so small a village would dare attempt to attract so prominent an individual as her nephew. Glancing over at him while asking Elizabeth, "Who can you mean, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth's cheeks pinked deeper as she admitted with a softer voice, "I would rather not say, Madam, due to the fact that one of her relations is near at hand."

To this Lady Matlock inconspicuously gazed about the room before her eye landed on the pleasant Mr. Bingley chatting easily with Lord Matlock. Arching her brows, her gaze came back to Elizabeth with a knowing nod. "One who favors a rather unflattering color scheme, Miss Bennet?"

Her cheeks deepening in true embarrassment for having said something she knew Jane would disapprove but with the agreement of the great lady across from her, Elizabeth merely nodded without saying more.

Lady Matlock brushed away non-existent lint from her gown and sniffed, "the caliber of the one you mentioned is not unique, my dear. We must merely be grateful at the forethought of my sister and brother for having raised a son who knows how to fend off such unworthy advances."

Glancing over at the man in question who had turned to his Uncle to join him in conversation and therefore oblivious to what the two women had remarked on, Darcy seemed equally oblivious to the fact that his little charge, snug in his lap, had now shifted her gaze to stare unblinking at the lady sitting across from them to draw her attention to the little girl anew.

Lady Matlock asked, "Miss Ellie, what is your full name?"

Darcy paused in his conversation to wait for her reply. He whispered in her ear to have her smile and remove her fingers from her mouth. She stated in a clear voice, "Elizabeth Earwyn Gardiner. Your necklace is pretty. "

"Ellie!" Both Jane and Elizabeth admonished in unison.

Lady Matlock did not appear at all offended as she inquired, "Would you like a closer look at it?"

She opened her arms to welcome Ellie sit in her lap only to see the little girl visibly shrink deeper into Darcy's embrace until he whispered something to her accompanied by one of his rare dimpled smiles and twinkling eyes. Thus encouraged, she nodded, allowing him to deposit her in his Aunt's embrace who gave her the pendant dangling on a gold chain to play with.

Ellie leaned in to Lady Matlock's neck and sighed, "You are soft like Mama."

This brought a warm smile to Lady Matlock's face. She whispered back, "Thank you."

The group carried on several conversations in the time allotted. Some were lively discussions on the art of kite flying with a description of some of the varied shapes that had caught the boys' fancy. There was another opinion on the best stance for skipping stones, which the boys attested was their cousin Lizzy's although her stone did not skip but three times while Mr. Darcy's managed four. This impressed the earl who could not recall the last time he had that particular pleasure.

Another equally lively discussion revolved around the planned last minute shopping before the return to Hertfordshire, which even the shy Georgiana managed to show interest enough to manage a few words. With Elizabeth's encouragement, the young lady spoke in an animated manner of her desire to see the various shops' window displays during this time of year.

Before long Jane and Elizabeth, with a silent communication, decided they had taken up enough of the earl's and his lady's time.

When they rose to ready the children to leave, thanking their host profusely for such a delightful afternoon, Lady Matlock seemed reluctant to relinquish her now sleeping charge into the arms of Miss Elizabeth. Both being careful not to awaken the child, Lady Matlock remarked, "I cannot remember a more enjoyable afternoon with such fine children."

"Thank you, Lady Matlock. I will inform their parents of their good behavior that," Elizabeth added in jest, "might have something to do with the soon visitation of Farther Christmas."

Georgiana gasped at this young lady's ease in speaking to one obviously her superior. She almost envied Elizabeth her ability to converse so confidently with total strangers.

The great lady smiled, shaking her head. "I doubt even his impending arrival would keep rambunctious children in line this long. These are very well mannered children, a testament to their upbringing, I am sure."

"Thank you, Your Ladyship."

Turning to her nephew, Lord Matlock announced, "Darcy, as I have need of a word with you, the carriage is at your disposal to have your friend take the Miss Bennets and their charges home."

Elizabeth opened her mouth to say that it would not be necessary until she looked over to Darcy, his inscrutable mask in place with only by his eyes betraying his surprise at such an announcement. He merely nodded at the statement that would brook no denial, and began ushering the group into the foyer after a quick squeeze of her sister's hand, saying softly, "I shall return momentarily."

The party descended steps of the front door where a grand carriage awaited them. Edmond and James were duly impressed and the first to scamper inside, after which Jenny was handed in by Bingley. Jane curtseyed to Darcy, saying, "Please thank Lord and Lady Matlock again for allowing us into their home, Mr. Darcy. I am sure they had no idea we would descend upon them with such a large contingent."

"I think both of them enjoyed having all of you here, especially the children as they have yet the privilege of grandchildren of their own, and your cousins are well behaved." She was actually blushing at such praise, and could only nod as Bingley handed her into the carriage, then quickly entered after her.

Turning to Elizabeth, Darcy heard the uncertainness in her voice when she asked him, "Can we still expect to see you and your sister for supper on Thursday?"

He smiled. "You may depend upon it, Miss Bennet. I have your forfeit to collect."

"And one to supply me," she added smiling.

He gently took little Ellie from her while the servant handed Elizabeth into the carriage, then Darcy transferred Ellie over into her waiting arms. The little girl did not even stir. Closing the door, Darcy watched until the coach rounded the corner and disappeared.

After seeing the carriage safely away, Darcy returned to the sitting room where all his family, even Georgiana, eyed him suspiciously, though she would never dare ask what their uncle did.

"Nephew, do you have anything to announce to us?"

Darcy remained calm. "No, sir."

"After this little display, I would have thought you had something to report."

Again Darcy said in a calm voice, "No, sir."

"Am I to understand that this young woman is...?"

"She is a friend whose company I enjoy."

Richard put in his opinion. "That is not how I would describe young Bingley's attitude toward the other Miss Bennet."

Darcy sighed. "Bingley falls in love frequently, Richard, as I have often written you. It is best not to dwell upon this latest infatuations should it come to naught."

"You did not see the way he looked at her, Cousin."

Lady Matlock added her concerns. "I hope he is not one to trifle with the emotions of young ladies."

Richard, who sensed this inquisition would be of some duration, gave his cousin some fortification without making further comment other than arching his eyebrow in an amused manner. Accepting a glass of wine from Richard, Darcy merely sipped it, and then replied to his Aunt and Uncle's remark. "As you know, Bingley is still fairly young with an idealist's view of courtship. However, it is not in his nature to trifle with any young woman's affections."

"Not unlike yourself then, nephew," the earl said. When Darcy merely stared back, the earl added, "Then we have no worries that you will do something rash in the name of love?"

Darcy shrugged. "I have learnt early on that true love is a rare commodity, not often acquired by even the best of people. No, Uncle, you need not fear for me to blindly thrash about in the throes of love."

"That is good to know," the elder gentleman accepting the glass of wine from Richard. Sipping the smooth liquid, he added, "For you to bring a woman you intend to wed into my house whose uncles are in trade would be a terrible breach of etiquette."

At this pronouncement Darcy frowned for the obvious slight to Miss Bennet, and for the fact that he had not envisioned her in that light. It astonished him that his uncle's thought could be as flighty as those of a woman's when it came to jumping from friendship to marriage with such caprice.

"If I understand you correctly, Uncle, in response to your statement, all I can say is that with my parents' passing and my being some seven years passed being of age, I may do as I please in seeking a wife. If and when I do marry, it will be to a woman of my choosing without the need of approval from anyone."

His aunt and uncle saw that Darcy's stare had gone cold, as severe as any Fitzwilliam family member when displeased. Lord Matlock tried his best not to let his own umbrage get the better of him at his nephew's hardened stance. "I did not say you needed my approval, Darcy, only that you would prefer it as not."

Both Richard and Georgiana held their breath as they saw Darcy's brow arch, each aware he was choosing his next words carefully. Gazing calmly at the earl to have him know exactly his thoughts, Darcy said quietly. "Uncle, you know me well enough that should I wed, the woman I choose would be worthy of yours and Aunt Eleanor's esteem, though she might not be from the first circles of society."

The earl opened his mouth to reply until his gaze fell upon his wife who silenced him with a look. Turning then to her nephew, she asked, "This Miss Elizabeth is quite intelligent, is she not?"

Darcy softened. "Yes, to the point that I find it sometimes challenging when conversing with her."

"Her parents must have been diligent in her education."

"Mr. Bennet's estate is small but he has an extensive library for which Miss Bennet has availed herself."

Lord Matlock scoffed, "a bluestocking?"

Darcy visibly laughed at the thought, and shook his head. "No, though I am told that she and her father often have lively discussions over their shared readings."

Richard came to the point that no one had yet spoken of when he admitted, "With five daughters and no son, I am sure there is the need for at least one of them to marry well."

Georgiana gasped at so mercenary a statement about a person she had only just met but felt strongly enough to support, her indignation bolstering her courage to reply. "Richard! That was unkind!"

"However true, nonetheless, my dear," her uncle said to put her off making any further statements while the adults talked of the consequential topic that had been avoided until now.

Darcy remained calm in the face of his family's disquiet. "I am sure any parent of five daughters would have concerns for their future and be as ambitious as those mamas of the town we all know of, Uncle. It means nothing to me."

"You sit there and say you have no interest in this young woman whom you have taken upon yourself to introduce to us?"

"Did either of you find her offensive in any way?"

"No, on the contrary," replied Lady Matlock, adding, "I found her refreshingly honest if somewhat opinionated for one so young."

"Then you would have no objection if I allow Georgiana to continue the acquaintance?"

Lord and Lady Matlock exchanged looks, now wondering if Darcy's true interest in this young woman lay not with himself as for his sister. Did he merely wish Miss Bennet as a companion to Georgiana?

The earl asked, "She is a gentleman's daughter?"

"Yes, sir."

Aafter a pause Lady Matlock gave her approval to the plan. "I think she would be ideal for Georgiana."

"Good," said Darcy, "For she has been included in the invitation to dine at the Gardiners on Thursday." Turning to his sister, he added, "Am I correct in that Miss Bennet asked you personally during tea?"

Georgiana looked at her uncle for permission to speak and then to her brother whose hopeful eyes encouraged her. She agreed with a nod. "I...I would love to come if only to enjoy such sweet children once more, if...if you are sure I would not be imposing."

Darcy smiled, kissing her hand. "You are never an imposition, Georgie. Mrs. Gardiner would welcome you with open arms."

Georgiana's eyed widened at that thought until she realized he was using a euphemism, and shook her head smiling. Seeing that she still felt a little uneasy, Richard offered, "Would another of your relations have you feel less anxious, my little cousin?"

Darcy turned to Richard and quipped, "I am sure the Gardiners would not mind sharing a repast with one of the King‘s own, but only if you promise to behave as well as did the Gardiner children."

With tensions quickly dissipating from the banter by his cousin, Richard laughed, "I promise nothing of the kind, Cousin, but will do my best not to embarrass you too severely."

Darcy rose. "I will write a note to that effect and have one of the servants deliver it to Miss Bennet's relations to be on their guard."

After his departure, both couples were left to contemplate the amusements to be had from this new acquaintance, this Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

*This incident actually happened to my own father when we were young and in a park.

Chapter Fifteen -- Dinner at the Gardiners

Posted on Tuesday, 1 May 2007

When Darcy arrived at the Gardiners with Georgiana and Richard and were shown into the parlor, they overheard clapping by the family members while playing the indoor game of ‘the minister's cat' that had been instigated by Elizabeth for the children. At Darcy's entrance he signaled the servant not to announce them, and watched, noticing that the family had somehow managed to get through most of the alphabet, having gotten to the letter ‘W' with Mrs. Gardiner offering, "The minister's cat is a witty cat."

Cheers went up from the older children when Mr. Gardiner giving his suggestion, "The minister's cat is a whiney cat."

This brought giggles from all his children and nieces. Jenny added, "The minister's cat is a waggle-tailed cat," to have Edmond scoff and Jenny playfully slap his arm between clapping, daring him to do better. He announced, "The minister's cat is wise old cat," with Jenny nodding in approval of his response.

James came up with Jane's help, "The minister's cat is a wild cat," and they all cheered his answer.

Jane added, "The minister's cat is a wayward cat." Mr. Gardiner said, "Good show, Jane."

Elizabeth took her turn, reciting, "The minister's cat is a weaselly cat!"

All the children broke out in giggles with Ellie barely able to give her response. With Elizabeth's aid she shouted, "The minister's cat is a white cat."

"Very good," Mrs. Gardiner praised her little one while smiling at her niece. They all seemed to hesitate at the next letter.

Darcy stepped forward, offering with a smile, "The minister's cat is a xanthic cat," to have them all finally take notice of the new arrivals.

"Excellent, Mr. Darcy," Mr. Gardiner sighed with relief as all present ended the game and rose to bow or curtsey. "I admit to being rather stumped for any description of a cat with the letter ‘X'. Thank you, sir."

Darcy laughed, shaking hands and picking up little Ellie who had boldly scrambled from Elizabeth's lap, and running up to him before anyone could restrain her. Gathering her up without pause, he added, "I doubt there are many words beginning with the last few alphabetic letters, sir." Then addressing the little girl, he asked, "And how are you this evening, Miss Ellie?"

"Fine, sir," came a smiling reply when she pulled her fingers from her mouth.

Turning to Elizabeth, Darcy bowed. "Good evening, ladies. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, may I present my cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, of His Majesty's Horse Guards."

Richard shook Mr. Gardiner's hand, and then bowed to the ladies. Darcy continued, "and this is my sister. Georgiana, this is Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. The children and the Miss Bennets you are already acquainted."
Georgiana could barely raise her eyes to speak, softly greeting her hostess as she curtseyed.

To such a shy response, Mrs. Gardiner smiled. "I have heard such a good account of you that I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Darcy. Will you not sit next to me that we might become better acquainted?"

As Georgiana sat on the settee, little James could not keep his eyes off her, requiring him to be nudged by both his older siblings to bring him back to his senses. Then Nurse came forward to take the children for their dinner only after Mrs. Gardiner promised to come kiss them goodnight. Before he left, James did not fail to bow politely to Georgiana who blushed and curtseyed in return amid giggles from Jenny and a soft chuckle from the Colonel before the little ones departed.

As the children were shuffled off to the nursery, Mrs. Gardiner seemed curious as to why Charles and his brother had not accompanied him, inquiring on it.

Darcy offered, "Mr. Bingley thanks you for including him in the dinner party along with Mr. Hurst, and bids me send his apologies for their inability to attend." He explained further, "After accepting several days of my hospitality, they finally returned to his townhouse to join Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley."

Mr. Gardiner nodded expecting as much. "Perhaps we shall meet them again at some future date."

When the two gentlemen in question had return to the Hurst townhouse, the ladies were informed of Darcy's return to the city and that Miss Darcy along with her cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, were also in town. Miss Bingley immediately reprimanded the two for neglecting to invite them to dine with them only to be informed of Darcy having a previous engagement. They then contrived to have all to go to the theatre the following Saturday, demanding Bingley send a note round to Darcy House as to the plan.

Darcy's return note accepted the invitation, but he had determined to know if Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner would be available to join them along with their nieces, asking, "Would Saturday suffice? The ladies have expressed an interest in attending a special performance of Handel's Messiah, which the Archbishop has sanctioned. My box can easily accommodate."

Without hesitation, Mrs. Gardiner approved the plan with a nod from her husband, both of whom had spoken earlier of their desire to hear the uplifting music in a proper venue, and the scheme began to take shape for all to attend on the evening of December the 15th. Darcy's carriage would be sent for them.

Not long afterwards, a servant announced dinner was ready with everyone rising to move into the dining parlor. Accepting Darcy's arm, Elizabeth returned to the topic he had expounded upon when he first appeared in the parlor, saying softly, "a most interesting description of the minister's cat, Mr. Darcy. Would I have been redundant should we have managed to make it to the letter "Y" to describe the cat as ‘yellow'?"

"Correct, Miss Bennet. I doubt my word is much used over your more easily descriptive one." The smug look she gave him caused him to speak before he thought, saying. "I suppose you could have conjured an equally unique word with an even harder letter."

Her brow arched, knowing he had just challenged her. She paused before smiling "The minister's cat is a zorillas cat." Before he could make reply, she asked, "Shall I retrieve the dictionary from my uncle's study to confirm the authenticity of the word, Mr. Darcy?"

"I do not doubt that is it a word, Miss Bennet. I only question as to whether it is in the form of an adjective."

While conversing with Georgiana on her studies, Richard and both Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were near enough to overhear this exchange, all three gently laughing, awaiting to opine in turn.

"I wonder if the minister would appreciate the comparison," Mr. Gardiner chuckled.

Richard affirmed his knowledge of the word with, "it is not everyday that a cat is described at a weasel."

"Or a skunk," finished Mrs. Gardiner. "Lizzy, whatever were you thinking?"

Turning to take her Aunt's arm, Elizabeth smiled mischievously. "Did you not tell me that such an animal is oft times called a ‘pole-cat, Aunt?" To this Mrs. Gardiner nodded, both laughing as they made their way into the dining room.

Georgiana was surprised at finding herself seated beside her cousin on one side and Mr. Gardiner on the other, and was quite taken with the kindly nature of the older gentleman whose gentle coaxing eased her out of her shyness to give her courage enough to say a few words.

During supper, the men began to talk of the war, to which Elizabeth felt confident enough to add her own comments and opinions much to the amusement of both Richard and Mr. Gardiner.

Her uncle put forth, "My niece's interest has taken on the form of reading the papers in order to be more informed."

Elizabeth defended her wish for knowledge. "My desire to know such particulars stems from the immediate impact upon my uncle's business ventures should the blockade continue." To this reasoning the men could not but nod in agreement. Free trade is always impeded when there is a naval blockade in place, and many companies go bankrupt under an extensive curtailment.

Seeing the uneasiness of Miss Darcy at the table, sensing her trepidation perhaps regarding her cousin, Mrs. Gardiner began a secondary subject of future plans of the Darcys in town to allow the talk of war to subside. Georgiana glanced up to her hostess, her grateful smile in evidence. Mrs. Gardiner gave her a slight nod that only Darcy noticed.

After dining, the party removed to the parlor for coffee where Elizabeth and Georgiana entertained the group with duets of seasonal minstrel songs played on the Gardiner's small pianoforte. With Elizabeth's sweet soprano, she encouraged the rest to join in the most common tunes where it was discovered that Mr. Gardiner's bass and Mrs. Gardiner's also blended well with both young men whose passable baritone voices to round out with Jane's descant. Georgiana was too shy to add her voice, but managed to play admirably for everyone's enjoyment. The evening ended with promises of meeting the following morning for shopping.

On the carriage ride home, the three remarked on how well the evening went. Georgiana stated that she thought all the children were very astute when playing the game of the minister's cat. "I doubt I could have come up with many suggestions as Jenny and Edmond."

Richard teased her, "And young James seemed to gaze at you for all the time allotted him before he was sent off with Nurse. I think the young lad fancies himself in love with you."

Georgiana blushed. "I cannot see how such a young boy could have any of the feelings you credit him."

Richard begged to differ. "I distinctly remember Bingley's confession of his once falling in love with his nursery maid when he was but six or seven, and professed to his family that he would marry her when he grew up."

They all laughed at this notion giving Darcy leave to acknowledge that he too had once deep feelings Mrs. Reynolds' daughters when he was very young. Georgiana looked at him in astonishment. He added, "Miss Nelly was probably ten and seven and I about five years of age at the time."

Even Richard admitted, "When I was ten I told my older brother of my infatuation with one of the neighbor's daughters."

Darcy added, "And thereafter being constantly teased by Henry whenever the family came to visit."

To this Richard nodded, adding, "To never again have me relate to him any of my secrets, favoring your brother's ability to keep his counsel over my own." The two cousins smiled at their comradeship from an early age.

Having all agreed that the evening had been enjoyable Georgiana expressed her excitement at the upcoming shopping spree with Mrs. Gardiner and her nieces.
Richard piped in, "I overheard that your brother was required to attend you...something about picking out lace?"

Darcy colored. "So, your powers of eavesdropping and inference have allowed you to discover the reason behind my going along? It is true, otherwise, I would not have been allowed on such an outing, nor would I have been induced to join the ladies had it not been for some unfortunate timing of the wind." Darcy shook his head, resigned to his fate.

As he laughed at his cousin's predicament, Richard asked, "How came you to be on the receiving end of such an assignment, Darcy?"

"He lost a wager," Georgiana confessed much to Darcy's chagrin, continuing with a shy smile, "and now must pay the consequences."

Darcy admonished, "Let this be a warning to you, Georgiana to the risks one takes in gambling. The chances are you will lose with every bet and have to face whatever the winner deems necessary to settle the debt."

Richard furthered, "When playing at cards or making bets at the club one usually loses only a monetary sum to lighten one's purse. On occasion, however, the price is something more to make the loser feel the brunt of his defeat and bruise one's pride. Is that so in this case, Darcy?" Turning from Georgiana to Darcy who by now was blushing furiously at the constant teasing, Richard asked, "Exactly how did you lose such a bet with Miss Elizabeth, Cousin?"

Two sets of eyes fell upon him to have him shrug and mumble, "her kite flew higher than the one I was maneuvering for young Edmond. Try as I might, the design or the tail made it less buoyant in the air than young James' diamond shaped one that sailed almost to the sun. In the time allotted us we were making progress. Had you not come upon us when you did, I am sure we would have eventually triumphed."

Richard mocked this excuse. "It serves you right to have to pay with such a forfeit, Cousin. The blame rests solely on your shoulders, not mine. Perhaps you could suggest a variance of design to young Edmond when next you have courage enough to wager on kites."

"Perhaps I shall," said Darcy, smiling at his cousin, clearly not too upset with what he must forfeit if it meant being again in company with the effervescent Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

Chapter Sixteen -- Shopping for Lace

Posted on Tuesday, 8 May 2007

The next morning Darcy arrived accompanied by his sister for his obligatory attendance on the shopping spree in order that he fulfill his forfeit of being forced to pick out lace for Mrs. Bennet. He greeted Mrs. Gardiner with more enthusiasm than he ought for one who had lost a wager. Georgiana, though eager to renew her fledging acquaintance with the Miss Bennets, still appeared terribly shy and barely raised her eyes as she softly added her own greeting. "It is nice to see you again, Mrs. Gardiner."

Mrs. Gardiner smiled, and with the same gentleness shown by her husband towards the young lady the previous evening, she said, "Miss Darcy, please sit down while Elizabeth comes down. Jane has offered to stay with the children while we are away, so you will only have to contend with but two ladies."

Soon Elizabeth joined them, having said her good-byes to the children and Jane. Intertwining her arm with Georgiana's, they turned their steps toward the nearby shops lining the streets several blocks away. Smiling, she asked, "Miss Darcy, I am confident that you must have some idea where we might find the greatest quantity of lace from which to make a selection?"

Georgiana may a few suggestions. Elizabeth nodded, smiling in her mischievous way as the two headed down the lane to one of the most exclusive shops in the vicinity.

Darcy offered his arm to Mrs. Gardiner as they both fell into step behind the young ladies. Their conversation began with Mrs. Gardiner speaking of Derbyshire and more specifically Lambton, a town where Mrs. Gardiner had spent much of her youth. This was a pleasant surprise for Darcy to find another person who felt the north country with its rugged, craggy peaks to be one of the most beautiful parts in all of England.

Soon Darcy and Mrs. Gardiner followed the two young ladies into Madame Vanessa's Modiste Shoppe where the ladies began to peruse the fabrics and notions, the younger two becoming excited at the prospect of having dresses made for certain functions. Mrs. Gardiner left Darcy's side to gaze at some dark green muslin she thought would become her Jenny very well during this time of year. This left Darcy to stroll about with a rather lost appearance. Elizabeth glanced up to see him craning his neck to look upon a selection of ribbons near the counter, the lace being not far from his eye.

Elizabeth nudged her companion who glanced up from her new friend to her brother and could not stop herself from smiling at his intensity upon staring at the large selection of lace. Fingering one, then another, he frowned, clearly at a loss to decide which would do for Mrs. Bennet.

Georgiana felt sorry for her brother and whispered her concerns to Elizabeth. "Do you think we should aid him in his selection? Truly, he has no idea which is better or which is imported to drive up the cost regardless of the quality."

Elizabeth smiled as they both continued to view Darcy from around a selection of dress patterns. She opined, "Mr. Darcy is a man purported to have complete discernment. Should he need our help, I am sure he would not hesitate to ask for it." She smiled, knowing him well enough by now to realize quite the opposite was true of the man. If at all possible, his pride would not allow him to ask for any assistance if he thought himself capable of making a logical selection from the myriad of choices.

They both heard him sigh and could barely keep their countenance before disappearing behind a table of fabrics to let loose their giggles at his expense. Elizabeth had no doubt the man himself had heard them.

Finally, his cheeks blushed with embarrassment at his lack of knowledge to make a proper selection, Darcy was forced to confer, he hoped surreptitiously, with Mrs. Gardiner, who gave him an abbreviated history of the different countries that produced lace, the quality of each, and finally daring to inquire of the proprietress for her own preferences from her current stock. Darcy made his purchase of no less than three yards of very expensive Irish lace, the width and tatting design he thought he remembered as the same edging as on the gown Mrs. Hurst wore at the Netherfield Ball.

Smiling triumphantly, Darcy approached his sister and companion, busy trying to decide on several fabrics from which to each have a dress made. Showing them his selection, Elizabeth frowned to cause him to ask, "Does this not fulfill my requirement to the forfeit, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth, not wishing the outing to come so soon to an end, said, "I suppose it must, but I just thought we could view the selections from several shops before you made your selection."

His eyes widened at her statement. To have to submit to such embarrassment several times over seemed extreme in light of their usual amiable forfeits. Still, rather than stating he had no intention of its repetition, he asked instead, "You do not think this suits your mother's taste?"

"Yes," Elizabeth began, fingering the beautiful lace that her mother would be ecstatic over. "My aunt has a wonderful eye for lace." She then added teasingly, "Was not our agreement to have you make your own choice without any assistance?"

"I do not recall either of us specifying any restrictions of the sort, Miss Bennet. Rather you gave me leave to solicit the opinion of yourself or the proprietress should I have felt the need. Surely you would not begrudge me the advice of ones more knowledgeable than myself to acquire the most appropriate lace for your mother?"

She knew by the inflection in his voice, though not overt, that his patience was being sorely tested. Still, she could not leave off, and continued her tease. "Miss Bingley was of the opinion that you were knowledgeable about a great many things, Mr. Darcy, impressing upon me how you prided yourself on your abilities of discernment. However, if you feel yourself inadequate to the current task, perhaps another would be more to your choosing."

Frowning at her adding to the forfeit that he had already accomplished, Darcy nonetheless allowed this deviation to their previous agreement enough to inquire, "What did you have in mind?"

"That you choose a pattern of dress you deem appropriate for a lady of my mother's social standing."

"A dress pattern?"

"And the fabric from which it should be made."

He huffed, "That seems excessive for the comparable loss of the current wager."

With Darcy's firm avowal that he was not obligated to make more than one decision as regards the purchase of lace, Elizabeth insisted, "Since you failed to adequately fulfill your duty to the current forfeit, are you not obliged to accomplish another?"

At this point Georgiana was near distraction, touching Elizabeth's arm, and whispering, "Miss Bennet, my brother is unused to being treated in such a manner except perhaps by our cousin."

Elizabeth turned to the young woman, asking, "Do you mean to say that he is always this obstinate and you do not make him pay for such behavior? Why, I had begun to feel jealous of your having an elder brother to tease and goad as we sisters do to one another. Now I am not so sure it would be so advantageous to have one older as to prefer one younger that I could do with as I please."

Her brow arched and the beginning of a smile graced her face to have Darcy realize at last that she had all the while been teasing him. His rankled temper died easily within his breast whereupon he smiled.

Georgiana, much less knowledgeable in the art of teasing, could not account for the ease in which the two had settled the matter between them and needed more placating from Mrs. Gardiner before realizing that her brother and Elizabeth were having their own fun.

"Now, Mr. Darcy, if you please," continued Elizabeth with the same haughty manner that he had attempted to use, "You must decide on a dress pattern and fabric. I insist!"

"Well, if you insist, I must obey," he remarked drolly, picking up several to view. He added, "However, I still require some assistance from one knowledgeable of the lady in question, if you would not mind, Miss Bennet." She nodded smiling.

Picking two selections, he handed her the cards. At her first glance at the dowdy pattern that would be more sensible for an even more matronly figure than her mother, Elizabeth pursed her lips to keep from laughing aloud until he said, "We are in search of a pattern for your mother, are we not, to go with the lace?"

"You are quite correct, Mr. Darcy. Either of the patterns you chose would do well for her." She noticed that he chose the pattern less dowdy, and she smiled approvingly.

His own sister braved getting into the spirit of teasing her brother, and pulled on his arm to direct his attention to the table where bolts of fabric were gathered, insisting he make a selection from the more atrocious fabrics available. Patiently, he took his time listening to his sister rattle on about which of the materials she thought would do for the pattern he had selected, knowing she was trying to have her fun with him. Darcy could not remember the last time he had heard Georgiana talk at such length for the sheer joy of it, not even thinking to chastise her of such impudence towards himself.

Glancing over at the woman who had inspired this change in his sister, Darcy shook his head, smiling. Elizabeth did likewise before Georgiana drew his attention back to the selection of fabrics, pointing to several of the lovelier ones. Agreeing with Elizabeth that the heavier cream brocade would do, she stated that her mother would prefer it over the darker silk, a color Mrs. Bennet allowed did nothing for her skin tone.

After making their purchases, Darcy suggested stopping in a patisserieshop where Georgiana asked if they might indulge in hot cocoa in lieu of tea to go along with their cakes. Both Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner began to protest at the expense, but Darcy thought it a fitting end to a most fruitful outing and insisted the server bring them all the warm, chocolaty drink, which they all relished.

Upon returning to the Gardiners the uproar of children's giggles was heard at the side of the house. Turning the corner, they spied the four little Gardiners petting a whitish horse brought around by Bingley, and being held by one of the Gardiner's servants for the gentleman's return to his townhouse. Carrots had been passed around for the youngsters to feed the animal, which it eagerly accepted. Seeing their cousin, Edmond ran up to her, exclaiming, "Lizzy! See what Mr. Bingley has brought round to show us. You must come and see!"

Elizabeth hesitated for an instant before Edmond took her by the hand and pulled her near the animal's head. This brought the others attention to Darcy, Georgiana, and Mrs. Gardiner who followed close behind.

"Mother!" James shouted. "See Mr. Bingley's horse? Can we have one too?"

His mother tried to make him see reason. "James, a saddle horse is a luxury for which we have no need at present."

Jenny held out the carrot for the horse to consume. "But he is so pretty, Mama."

"A boy horse can't be pretty Jenny," James admonished his sister. "One must call him handsome." Seeing Georgiana beside his cousin, he gave her his carrot, asking, "Miss Darcy, you may feed him too."

Georgiana blushed at his gallantry and stood beside him feeding the horse. She acknowledged, in a voice barely about a whisper, her enjoyment of her first pony. When asked how old she had been, she shyly stated, "I believe I was about your age, Master James."

James was ecstatic. "See, Mother, she had a horse when she was my age."

"Here, Lizzy," Edmond then insisted, shoving a carrot in her hand. "See how much he likes them."

Elizabeth's face, Darcy noticed, remained a placid mask of calm, though he was near enough to see her hand trembling at the prospect of feeding the beast. He leaned close to her ear to whisper in tease, "Just keep your thumb out of reach, and all will be well."

She gave a little gasp under her breath at his words, glancing at his almost smile, a signal of his unspoken challenge. Swallowing, she did as he bid. The horse devoured the carrot with a voraciousness that astounded Elizabeth. When Jenny grabbed her hand and placed it on the gentle beast's snout, citing, "See how soft is his nose is, Lizzy? Oh, I would like a horse of my own one day," it almost undid Elizabeth's composed exterior. After stroking a few times Elizabeth took her hand away and out of reach lest the child wish again for her to pet the animal.

Had not Darcy been directly behind her, she felt certain she would have fled the scene. As it was, Elizabeth stepped backwards into Darcy's massive frame blocking her escape, and felt his hand at the small of her back, his fingers intertwining with hers and squeezing it. Turning her head slightly she saw his face held a serene expression, his gaze not on her but rather on the scene unfolding before them of the children's amusement with the horse. Only his eyes gave away his regret at thinking her had needlessly frightened her with his flippant remark. Elizabeth was sure his thoughts must be for her comfort for his hand remained entwined with hers, unobtrusively hidden between them, its warmth reassuring to keep her steady in the face of her fear.

Unobserved by the others, Jane glanced from Elizabeth's now composed expression to Darcy's equally pleasant countenance. Knowing Lizzy's fright, Jane realized that her sister wore a mask of ease where none should be. Another glance at Mr. Darcy gave her reason to believe that he had been made aware of Elizabeth's fear and was somehow aiding her to remain calm in order not to frighten the children. Jane smiled at his caring manner.

He is truly the gentleman that Mr. Bingley has often credited his friend.

Mrs. Gardiner finally brought the scene to a close with, "Come along, children. Nurse needs you to finish your studies before supper." Turning to Bingley, she added, "I thank you, sir, for giving them such a lovely time."

"It was my pleasure, Mrs. Gardiner."

With that she ushered all her brood down the path, inviting the group in for tea before their departure. Bingley offered both Jane and Georgiana his arms to follow the children and Mrs. Gardiner into the house. Elizabeth turned to join them, accepting Darcy's offered arm. He noticed she was still trembling from the ordeal, but seemed to be settling her nerves now that they were no longer near the animal. His other hand covered her arm and he gave it a light squeeze.

She sighed, "thank you, sir. I do not know how I could have managed not alerting the children to my plight without your help. I did not wish to burden them with my fear."

"As I surmised. I was happy to be of service, Miss Bennet, and to apologize for my ill timed remark"

Elizabeth laughed, shaking her head. "Mr. Darcy, what did you say that could not be construed as useful? I thank you, sir. If I am ever again close enough to feed a horse, I shall remember your judicious warning."

As they entered the house for tea and to speak of the night at the theater a few days hence, Darcy was certain that Miss Bennet would go out of her way to never be such close proximity of a horse again.

Chapter Seventeen -- Darcy's Box at the Theatre

Posted on Saturday, 9 June 2007

The theatre was filled to near capacity when the Gardiner's carriage made its way to the front doors where the coachmen jumped down to aid them. Alighting from it to hand down his wife and two nieces, they all looked about mesmerized at the crush of music aficionados hurrying into the lobby to keep from being chilled.

"I hope this will be as memorable as the last time we heard it," Mrs. Gardiner stated as they were handing their coats to the servant.

Jane asked, "You have already had the pleasure of listening to Handel's music, Aunt?"

"Your uncle took me to a performance last season. It was remarkable. Handel was a genius to have penned it in English so many who are not versed in opera could more easily enjoy his music."

"I think Mr. Handel always had the masses in mind whenever he composed his pieces," Mr. Gardiner avowed motioning the ladies to the stairway towards the upper levels. Darcy's box was on the next tier and to the right of the stage.

Before the crowd overtook them Darcy appeared.

"Good evening," he said as he bowed with as much civility possible in the aisle. "With little time before the overture, I was worried that something had occurred to prevent your attending."

Mr. Gardiner acknowledged, "We were merely caught up in the crush of other theatre goers who wished to hear a great piece of music."

"This way," Darcy nodded, motioning them to follow him, offering his arm to the nearest Miss Bennet who happened to be Elizabeth.

As they made their way to his box, she asked, "Is the Bingley party already in attendance?"

"Yes," Darcy acknowledged. "They arrived earlier than myself and my family. Georgiana and Richard accompanied me."

"Am I to assume everyone knows that my aunt and uncle also accompany us?"

Even in the poor lit of the hallway and the crush of people making their own way down the aisle, Elizabeth could clearly see Darcy's cheeks color. "Yes, Bingley informed them of the additional guests occupying my box."

Seemingly knowing what had embarrassed him, Elizabeth smiled and offered, "And should I make light of any pronouncements that may come their way because of their presence before the disparity of station?"

Startled at her knowing exactly what his thoughts were, Darcy stopped in mid-stride to turn and stare at her. This caused several people to jostle him before he renewed his moving on toward his box. Opening his mouth to say...anything in defense of the slight Miss Bingley had hurled at being informed, Darcy pursed his lips. There was nothing to say of the woman's rudeness.

Suddenly he smiled. "I doubt you would be capable of refraining from showing rancor in the face of such petulance. In fact, Miss Bennet, I defy you to remain silent whenever Miss Bingley feels the need toward any other disparaging remarks."

Now it was Elizabeth's turn to frown. It was not the kind of wager she had anticipated during an evening of sacred music. But with Darcy's smug expression overspreading his face, she could not resist the challenge, and sniffed, "You think me without tact and decorum, Mr. Darcy?"

Leaning close that only she could hear, he opined, "I think you unable to refrain from voicing a rebuttal whenever someone professes opinions that contradict your own."

At last arriving at the door leading to his box, she asked him coolly, "And what will you forfeit when I triumph at this wager, Mr. Darcy?"

Darcy smiled, knowing another game of chance was about to begin. "I am sure you will think of something equally humbling for me should you succeed, Miss Bennet."

Raising her chin, she moved through the door followed by her sister and her relations, armed with only her confidence as she entered into a tiger's den.

The theatre itself overfilled below allowing a cacophony to drift upwards. The noise in Darcy's box, too, seemed loud and the heat near suffocating with more than ten people within. However, when in mid-sentence Miss Bingley turned towards the door in anticipation of the return of Mr. Darcy only to lay eyes on the two Miss Bennets followed by their relations in trade, the air became decidedly chilly.

"Well, Eliza, how good of you to finally join us. I was just telling Louisa how abominably rude it is for those who tarry to disrupt the performance for the rest of us who made arrangements to arrive on time."

Biting her tongue to refrain from stating that the performance was not slated to begin for another twenty minutes, Elizabeth professed with more enthusiasm than she felt, "It is a pleasure to see you again, Miss Bingley," failing to keep her brow from arching at the obvious lie. Seeing Darcy's own likewise lift, she smirked.

Mr. Darcy did not say I am refrained from speaking entirely, only that I not respond in kind. This should be an easy victory.

Mr. Bingley, Mr. Hurst and the Colonel stood upon the newcomers' entrance amid the orchestra's murmur of tuning their instruments. Darcy motioned Elizabeth's relations forward to begin the introductions.

"Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley, you already know. Allow me to introduce Mr. Bingley's relations, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, and his sister, Miss Bingley. This is Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, the Miss Bennets' aunt and uncle."

Caroline's thoughts clearly showed with her snide expression as she barely conceded acknowledgement of them with a mere nod.

The relations who reside in Cheapside.

Mr. Gardiner bowed to the group. After she curtseyed Mrs. Gardiner came forward, addressing Richard. "I want to thank your family again for allowing my children into your home, Colonel. Upon their return, their heads were filled with amazing stories at meeting the Earl and Lady Fitzwilliam."

Richard responded warmly, "Both Mother and Father spoke highly of how well mannered were all your children, Mrs. Gardiner. Mother seemed to take a special interest in your youngest."

Mrs. Gardiner laughed at this, nodding, "Yes," at knowing her Ellie's attraction. While taking her seat, she added, "It is good to know that they remember well all that they have been taught."

Caroline gasped, stealing a glance towards her sister. They both frowned at the news, that these people's little urchins had been introduced to Darcy's family members when neither of them had yet had that honor.

The nerve of them thinking themselves well enough to meet members of the peerage! Will their aspiration to exceed their station never end?

Elizabeth gathered from their disgruntled expressions what the superior sisters were thinking, and readied her retort only to have it die on her tongue when her glance fell upon Darcy smiling at her, daring her to fail at their wager. Instead she took her seat beside his sister, greeting Georgiana warmly before turning to Bingley's other sister, saying, "Mrs. Hurst. I hope you are enjoying your stay in town."

Louisa was taken aback at being addressed so cordially, stammering, "Yes, yes, we are, Miss Bennet."

Caroline continued with less congeniality, "We have attended many a party from many noted families who welcome us into their homes."

At this reply Elizabeth noted Mr. Hurst roll his eyes and glance over the railing to keep from giving his own retort, leaving Elizabeth able to smile and rise to Darcy's challenge to remain charming. "It is fortunate then, Miss Bingley to have so many of your friends remained in town during the holidays."

"We always receive invitations from the well-to-do of society while in town, Eliza, unlike in the country where only so much activity can be expected, even for those considered the highest families."

"Quite true, Caroline," Louisa agreed, supporting her sister in retelling of one member of society who had courted their favor. "It was not a week previous that upon attending the Countess Deville's soiree that she informed me she thought me a true value for my opinions on the correct manner of the flower arrangements that even the likes of the Dowager Thurstenborn could not manage, much less those without such expertise due to their dwelling in the outlying areas."

This was followed by a twitter towards her sister to show how well they thought of themselves and meanly of others, especially those from the rural countryside of Hertfordshire. Looking around Elizabeth noted that thankfully neither Jane nor her Aunt Gardiner had overheard the slight of her family, being engaged in conversations with the Colonel and Georgiana and Mr. Bingley.

Incensed by the insult, she opened her mouth to respond when the bell chimed signaling that the oratorio was about to begin, having everyone else shuffled to gain their seats, and could not fail to hear a soft snort emanating from Darcy before he took his seat.

Caroline smiled broadly, gloating that Darcy had chosen the chair directly behind hers rather than one occupied by that little chit Eliza Bennet.

The Colonel lowered himself into the one directly behind Elizabeth and leaned forward to whisper something to her, offering her a pair of opera glasses. In the dimming lights Darcy clearly saw her turn to Richard and smile warmly at him, and he in return treating her with such cordiality she required to settle her resentment toward the obvious slight of Bingley's sisters. Darcy frowned.

He delighted at Elizabeth's near failure to refrain from speaking her mind for their curt remarks about those of the country life, and wondered how long she could keep her tongue over the course of several hours in company with them. Seeing his cousin take a marked interest in Elizabeth, however, seemed another matter entirely, one he had not anticipated.

At the beginning notes of the overture, his thoughts gave way to Elizabeth, watching her eyes close to have the music wash over her, leaving her spellbound by the wonderful rendition by the dynamic orchestra. This was followed by the tenor's rich voice for the first two arias.

Darcy, off to the side of her, had a perfect view of Elizabeth's face, his features softening with her obvious delight from the music, wondered at the logic in being jealous of another man's voice that had the power to elate.

Having several opportunities over the years to hear Handel's work, Darcy also wondered if a similar opportunity had ever been afforded Elizabeth to witness The Messiah in its entirety, or was this a first time event for her, one for which he had been responsible? Clearly, with her delightful expression, it was an enjoyment for her regardless, and it gladdened him to give her this occasion to experience the performance in the most appropriate setting of a great hall.

Their wager was all but forgotten amid the wonderful arias by the tenor, bass soprano and alto. It seems each of the singers, whether performing their solos such as Every Valley shall be exalted, or For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, or And lo! The Anger of the Lord Came Upon them, or He shall feed His flock like a shepherd, felt an energy permeate the hall, bidding them strive to perform to their full potential. The choir supporting them, likewise were of a caliber who called for excellence, each of the sixteen singers so well blended in their choruses that there was not a member of the audience unaffected by the performance, especially with their final chorus, His yoke is easy and His burthen is light, that the house stood in a rousing stance, their applause a thunderous appreciation of what they had witnessed, giving way to an extended delay in the ending of the first part.

Intermission came quickly and several of the men decided to remove to the lobby to relieve the crowded box. Richard spied his father and mother from the opposite side of the room motioning him over.

Kissing his cheek, Lady Eleanor remarked, "Richard, I had not thought to see you attending the theatre."

His father agreed. "We were certain you would be off cavorting with several of your comrades who recently arrived in town."

Richard acknowledged this would be so under normal circumstances. "However, Darcy invited me and you know I am useless in denying Georgie anything when she makes a request of me."

At that moment Mr. Gardiner joined them with Richard's requested glass of wine. Richard then made the introductions. "Mr. Gardiner, may I present my mother and father, the Earl and Lady Matlock. Mother, father, this is Mr. Edward Gardiner, Miss Bennet's uncle who has joined us for the evening."

"How do you do, Your Grace, Lady Matlock." Mr. Gardiner bowed.

Both nodded in return. The earl sniffed.

Yes, the relations in trade.

Lady Matlock remained cordial. "Mr. Gardiner, we had the pleasure of meeting your children a few days previously."

"So I have been told. I hope they behaved themselves."

"We were well pleased with them, especially the youngest," affirmed Lady Matlock.

Mr. Gardiner smiled. "Ah, yes, my little Ellie, named after her cousin, Lizzy due, for the most part, because of a physical resemblance. My wife, however, attests that she is proving to be as bright as my niece even at this early age." With a laugh, he added, "I fear in future I will have to contend with not only my brother and niece challenging me in chess but also my youngest daughter in due time."

The talk of chess piqued the Earl's interest. "You are a master at the game, Mr. Gardiner?"

"I pride myself on being quite good if not having an official title, my lord. My brother Bennet and I amuse ourselves with games by correspondence that my niece has not the forbearance to abide." Here he gave the earl a wink. "You know how impatient the young are, always wishing to hurry a move along, otherwise, Lizzy is an excellent opponent in her own right, and could best many a boastful player who underestimates her due to her gender."

The earl scoffed at the thought of a woman being able to best a man at chess, and with good reason, he silently avowed.

They simply do not have the mental capacity needed for so intricate a game of strategies, nor are they aware of the idiosyncrasies of subterfuge and deceit.

Gazing at this uncle of the Miss Bennets, a man of trade but with an obvious penchants for the game, the Lord of Matlock wondered.

Still, it would do me good to have a worthy opponent at the club now that Lord Ellerwood has passed. Hmmm.

Before long the bell chimed to have all the patrons return to their seats for the beginning of the next section of the Messiah.

The second part began with the soprano's I Know that my Redeemer Liveth. To say that the entire house was affected was not too much an estimation for without a doubt, if by the reaction of all those within Darcy's box was any indication, then perhaps that statement could not have been far from the truth. He noticed that even Miss Bingley sat motionless in complete astonishment as the singer's voice swelled to the highest notes nearing the close of the aria, bringing tears to the eyes of the normally blithe Caroline, to acknowledge she was in the presence of a truly remarkable talent.

Gazing about the box, Darcy noted that all the women were dabbing their faces, and the men clearing their throats or coughing softly to disguise their own heightened emotions. Perhaps the only one of their party refrained from showing what he felt was Richard who, though lively in company, kept his true feelings in check while observing others, a trained response from years in the military.

As the final notes echoed from the stage through the hall, the fervent applause began rising in temper from the floor and growing to include those in the higher boxes. This necessitated the soprano to acknowledge the audience appreciation of her effort with several bows, thus delaying the more intense section of The Messiah depicting the crucifixion and resurrection, and the call to profess it to the nations.

The second part continued the Messiah with the opening bars of the heavier notes of the labored piece, Behold the Lamb of God to lay the foundation of depicting the sacrifice made by our Lord, followed by the moving alto soloist's singing of He was despised, for which all in box marveled. Then the chorus rose to sing Surely, He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows by which time the audience mesmerized. By the time the ensemble had concluded He trusted in God that He would deliver Him and the tenor again stood to sing Thy rebuke hath broken His Heart there was not a dry eye in the house, at least on the ladies side. Relief came in the form of the chorus singing Lift up your head, O ye gates followed immediately by the tenor intoning the next chorus, Let all the angels of God worship Him.

When the soprano stood to sing,How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, Caroline was moved to turn to her sister and whisper loud enough for the entire box to hear, "Oh, I so love her voice, Louisa. It is so refreshing to listen to those who are so accomplished in the art."

Elizabeth did not have to wait long for the slight to come her way when Caroline continued, "I wish we could have her be invited to more social functions that we attend. Then, we would hear truly remarkable singing, and not mere pretense of it." To emphasize her meaning Caroline glanced slightly toward Elizabeth. She sighed, pretending not to hear.

By the time the second part concluded with the Halleluiah Chorus, another intermission was greatly needed by many a theatre-goer to settle from the euphoria wrought by such inspirational musical fair. Many ladies in the audience required a change of scene and a calming restorative to gain control of their emotions. Joining in the throng heading for the lobby were Elizabeth along with Georgiana, both Elizabeth's aunt and sister. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst preferred to remain in the now relative quiet of the box with the promise that Mr. Hurst, following close behind hoping for some libations, could be prevailed upon to return with a glass for each.

Upon reaching the overcrowded lobby, Richard and Bingley offered to obtain refreshments for the ladies and hurried off. Darcy had anticipated the need and was already pouring glasses of wine when Richard and Bingley arrived around the crowded table. Handing two glasses to Richard, he said, "I think perhaps Mrs. Gardiner and Georgiana are most in need of some relief at present."

He then turned to wait for another chance to gain the servants attention for another two glasses for the Miss Bennets. He and Bingley remained with him saying to his friend, "How do you think the ladies are enjoying the performance, Darcy?"

Ordering the drinks, Darcy acknowledged, "They seem delighted for the most part in the uplifting artistic level of each of the singers as well as the chorus."

Bingley snorted. "If the sniffling is any indication of enjoyment, then I would say both my sisters have found a work to admire. I could swear hearing Caroline sniffing in her handkerchief after the first aria, only to join Louisa's sobbing when the soprano rose to sing How beautiful are the feet of them. I cannot remember a time when they both had been so affected by mere music."

Darcy retrieved the glasses of wine, asking, "Music that had made no impression upon you?"

Bingley rather sheepishly admitted, "Well...I would not go so far as to say I was not moved by it, especially the high notes of the choir singing Let All the angels of God worship Him. I think that is my favorite piece thus far."

His friend shook his head smiling as they headed back to where the ladies awaited them.

Only you, Bingley, would focus on music with angels in the title.

When near enough to their group that included the Miss Bennets, Darcy noticed that they were chatting with Mr. Herbert Smythe and Mr. James Knotingley, two of Bingley's former classmates from Cambridge. Both had the demeanor of gentlemanly behavior, dutifully keeping their eyes from roaming downward toward Miss Bennet's charms when she gazed at her sister speaking, that even Bingley failed to notice their interest.

At hearing Elizabeth laugh at one of Mr. Smythe's lame jests, Darcy gazed round the room to note that he and Mr. Knotingley were not the only gentlemen giving both Miss Bennets and even his sister an admiring eye. Though adequately chaperoned with Mrs. Gardiner, Bingley, and now Richard to be assured of their safety, Darcy could not help but be incensed at the lack of manners exhibited by the men nearby.

They claim to be gentlemen, but lack that quality if they are incapable of keeping their eyes aloft.

Glancing back at the three ladies, one of whom was his young sister, all smiling politely, acting perfectly proper, Darcy had to admit that their considerable charms were such that it would be foolish to believe they would not draw attention. They were all uncommonly pretty, as Bingley would say.

It was his friend who brought Darcy back to his senses with a needed nudge of his elbow to offer the preferred glasses to the Miss Bennets. Nearing Elizabeth, he noticed she already had a glass in her hand, and it was then that Mr. Smythe admitted, "Oh, sorry, old chap, but I offered Miss Bennet my punch. I hope you do not mind."

Before Darcy could feel offended by the man's supposed gallantry, Mrs. Gardiner exchanged her empty glass for the one he still held, thanking him. "I fear I am in need of a bit more restorative, Mr. Darcy. You are so kind." When he disposed of the empty glass onto a servant's tray, she added, "The performances by the soloists are extraordinary. I wonder how the conductor managed it."

"There is no doubt prestige in being a part of one of the world's greatest sacred oratorio, Mrs. Gardiner, for which great soloists compete for the opportunity."

She admitted, "I find my particular liking the wonderful tenor, Mr. Louigi Sephanini, especially his Thou Shalt Break them that made my heart palpitate. Would you not agree, Lizzy?"

"Oh, absolutely, Aunt," Elizabeth put forth. "I do not think I have ever heard a voice more suited to the music as is Mr. Sephanini. Is that not so, Mr. Darcy?"

"Yes," Darcy agreed, his humor returning now that the current subject had turned to a topic dear to him. "I find whenever I am privileged to hear him sing in any work, he brings a passion to the piece that transcends the words and notes."

Elizabeth nodded. "I find the few times I have heard one of the tenor aria sung by others, there seems to be a lack of ardor that Mr. Sephanini has captured this evening, much to all our delight."

Mr. Smythe drew Elizabeth's attention when he remarked, "Did you know, Miss Bennet, that when this particular oratorio premiered in London, the Archbishop of the time was reluctant to endorse it?"

"Indeed?" Her arched brow gave Darcy an indication of what would come next as she began to weave her web of entrapment. "Mr. Smythe, I would have thought the music itself and the text being directly from the Bible to be sufficient encouragement for the cleric's appreciation. Could there perhaps have been some political reasoning behind his being indisposed to recommend Mr. Handel's work?"

"I think it more the secular nature by the composer's previous works that made the church think it unworthy for the masses."

Darcy noticed the mischievous gleam in her eyes betray the sweet expression on her face as she continued her query. "Do you not think the Archbishop officious in his manner of discouraging the populace be witness to such uplifting music due merely to the fact that the composer found it necessary to earn a living at his craft through means of other than sacred works?"

Clearly oblivious to his soon downfall at the superior wit of the lady before him, Mr. Smythe went on with his obtuse opinion of an archbishop who lived some sixty years previous and whom he had no personal knowledge of the man's state of mind. "In his capacity as one of the leaders of the church, his views were taken asparamount as to whether or not this music should be well received, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth allowed the man to blather on about what were the Archbishop reasons for such an attitude, Mr. Smythe implying that he knew what were the cleric's thoughts and feelings on such a secular composer having the audacity to presume to write sacred music, and thereby ensuring the continued salvation of the people's souls entrusted to his care.

When she had toyed with him sufficiently, Elizabeth then asked sweetly, "Even before the views of the King, sir, who is designated as the head of the church in England?" Without giving him time to remark, she added, "Was it not true, sir, that King George was in attendance that night of the London premiere, and that he was so impressed with the performance as a whole, that he stood at the onset of the Halleluiah Chorus thus beginning the tradition for the entire audience rising to its feet when the opening music is played?"

Bingley thought that incredible, and asked, "Is what Miss Bennet says true, Darcy? Did the King stand up at the time to require his subject to do likewise?"

"Yes," Darcy said, smiling at how easily Elizabeth had allowed her prey enough rope to hang himself. "It is a tradition that began at the first London premiere, and thus encouraging any and all his subjects to bear witness to the ability of a composer's work to transcend all forms of religion in this country."

"Yes...well..." Needless to say Mr. Smythe had little to forward to the conversation afterwards. Soon he along with his friend drifted off to find a more enlightened group more willing to be enraptured by his opinions.

When the bell chimed to signal the beginning of the final part, Darcy escorted their party back to his box. Elizabeth was near enough for him to overhear her aunt chastise, "That was unkind, Lizzy, to use pretense to have Mr. Smythe deliberately state so loquacious a view from a half century in the past."

Elizabeth sniffed, "If one is to relate history, Aunt, one ought to have their facts correct before professing them. I merely asked a question of him that he had no answer."

"Sometimes, that is all that is needed for one to feel inadequate, Lizzy. You should remember that in future."

Gently intertwining her arm with her aunt's, Elizabeth smiled, saying, "Oh I shall, Aunt, you may depend upon it."

Darcy leaned in and without changing his expression, added, "You are a devious woman, Miss Bennet, a trait I am not altogether sure would be a good influence upon my young sister."

When she chanced to gain his eye, clearly they belied his words, and she smiled back at him, clearly diverted at his remark as she entered his box through the hall door he held for her. "Your concerns are noted, Mr. Darcy," was all that she would say.

The ushers were already beginning to dim the lights when the party arrived back in the box to settle into their seats for the final part of the performance. Miss Bingley could not allow their tardiness to go unremarked, and turned to her sister with a sneer, saying, "I see no amount of kindly meant chiding will improve misbehavior from years of ill-rearing."

Seeing his wife nod in agreement as a sign of her younger sister's growing influence over her, Mr. Hurst determined to take steps separating the pair of them as much as he was able lest the younger become too powerful to combat. For now, though, he would endure the behavior of his sister-in-law with only an exasperated, "Good Lord," hissed under his breath, swallowing the last of the wine he had managed to abscond with back to the box.

Mrs. Gardiner knew not on what the young woman was opining with obvious ill humor as she and her nieces settled into the front row of chairs. Elizabeth, it seemed, was the only one aware of the continued slighting of her and her relations by Miss Bingley. Still, she held her tongue, not because of the wager between herself and Mr. Darcy, but out of deference to her aunt and uncle and Georgiana, but mostly for Mr. Bingley.

The poor man has to live with the woman!

The third and final part of the Messiah began with the soprano rising to sing, I know that my Redeemer liveth, with Caroline again making mention of engaging the woman to be the entertainment for one of her dinner parties or to have one of her friends make the arrangements.

Trying to ignore Miss Bingley's comments, Elizabeth turned to Jane who, like everyone else, was enthralled by the soprano's rendition of the aria, which was followed the stately Since by man came death, which alternated with a slow, melodic tune with a rousing second part to excite the listeners.

All the soloists had a chance to exhibit in this third part with the duet half way through by the alto and tenor, O death, where is thy sting that Mrs. Gardiner expressed her pleasure, by touching Elizabeth's hand, and nodding her approval.

To end the performance, Handel had written the final chorus, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, followed by a glorious Amen that brought the audience to its feet, clapping with such enthusiasm it threatened to burst all their eardrums. Waves of applause rippled through the house with no sign of abatement, so moved were those fortunate enough to have heard such a wonderful depiction of the life of Our Lord.

Over this tumultuous praise Caroline turned to Louisa, raising her voice to be heard by all as she again opined, "I do so wish the Countess Alderclaire could be prevailed upon to invite Madame Margaritte to sing for the dinner party. It would be such a coup, to have so famous an opera singer grace her table. Then we would be assured of wonderful entertainment of the highest caliber, instead of having the mediocre try their hand at exhibiting."

Again Caroline nodded toward Elizabeth to have Louisa know exactly to whom she was referring. Even after glorious music bathing their ears, some four hours in company with Miss Bingley had finally done Elizabeth in. A slight lull came before the applause began again, giving her the opportunity to send a sharp barb their way.

Leaned near to the two superior sisters, Elizabeth, flush with her triumph over a certain verbose gentleman to feel quite superior in her own right, leaned near enough to the two superior sisters to apprise them as though as a friendly meant warning tone, "You may do as you please, Miss Bingley, but I wonder if Countess Alderclaire would appreciate your wishing to expose her friends and family to the rumored notorious flirt that are many opera singers, as a rule, and not the kind of woman to be trusted with wandering husbands near about. As we have just witnessed, Madame Margaritte is one of the most famous opera singers of our time." In a conspiratory fashion, Elizabeth further added, "If you would be party to the Countess's spouse trailing after so wanton a woman as an opera singer, would you thereafter be welcomed at your friend's table?"

Before Caroline could make any reply, the applause again rose to such a crescendo that no one could hear their own voices. Elizabeth turned away from the frowning Caroline, unsure if she had been given pertinent information to avoid embarrassing herself in the eyes of Countess Alderclaire, or if she had been lied to by Elizabeth out of spite for being the object of her deliberate slurs over the course of what should have been an otherwise enjoyable evening. Caroline was in a quandary as to how to proceed on the matter.

Mr. Hurst could barely keep his countenance at the contorted sentence Elizabeth had constructed to form her ruse. The fact that she sounded so conciliatory towards her wish to have Caroline stay in good standing with the Countess made Miss Bingley's twisted mind suspect some subterfuge that she could not follow in Elizabeth's speech and galled her no end.

Elizabeth smiled innocently until able to turn her head. Sure of the success of her ruse, her smug expression lasted as long as it took her to note that Mr. Darcy had overheard the entire conversation. Unable to give his own opinion over the clamor of applause, from his untamed smirk it was clear that he had followed her turn of phrase to infer one meaning for Caroline with such wording that could be construed quite innocently if one understood her true meaning. Since he knew that this particular singer was quite happily married to the conductor, so would never stoop to flirting with another's husband, Darcy smiled at her failure to comply with their wager.

After a half hour of applause, giving way to bows by individual singers, the choir, the orchestra, the conductor, and then having it all repeated once more, the audience finally began to settle down in preparation for departing. Gathering up their wraps and opera glasses, the Bingley party said their good-byes with the promise of attendance at Darcy's dinner party in two days time, and exited the box to find their carriage.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner waited by the door to allow the crush to go past before venturing out into the hallway. In that time Mrs. Gardiner extended her hand, "I want to thank you again, Mr. Darcy for the lovely evening. Such glorious music is remarkable and will no doubt last for centuries."

"You are very welcome, Mrs. Gardiner. I am happy to have given you all this opportunity to hear Handel's work."

"Come, my dear," Mr. Gardiner encouraged. "I think we might be able to make our way now." They began to remove from the box.

Richard offered to escort Georgiana to the lobby and started out the door with his young cousin at his side. They were followed closely by Darcy and Elizabeth who had returned to retrieve her aunt's shawl from the seat beside hers.

As they made their way toward the lobby, Darcy gloated, "You know you lost the bet, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth nodded her head, sighing. "I did at that, Mr. Darcy. I fear when it comes to Miss Bingley, there is just so much one can manage without retaliation in kind. Mary would something wise to say at this juncture, but I choose to merely be philosophical and confess I did my best to fend off as many slurs as I was able, but four hours in company with Miss Bingley without relief left me powerless not to venture one rebuff. It was, Mr. Darcy, beyond even my endurance."

"I understand you completely," Darcy admitted.

"Then," she offered, "perhaps my forfeit should not be so momentous."

Darcy made the pretense of thinking of a reply before finally agreeing. "Yes, something small and inconspicuous should do the trick." He waited for her complete attention before smugly adding, "You must wear an article of clothing of a particular color, Miss Bennet." He saw her visibly cringe at the thought of such a forfeit, and smiled at her perturbation.

"Orange, I presume," were the only words she could form.

"Quite."

She countered, "And must it be visible for all to see?"

"Absolutely, Miss Bennet, else what would be the point?"

"An article of clothing of my choosing, of course," Elizabeth continued.

Darcy laughed, "Of course," his voice feigning the pretense of indignation that she think him to presume to make any suggestion of such a personal nature.

"Very well, I agree," she sighed, nearing her uncle's carriage. "When next we meet, I will be donning my forfeit to your satisfaction."

Darcy smiled. "If I am correct that would be tomorrow for Bingley has asked if he could visit tomorrow afternoon in hopes of taking Miss Bennet and the children for a walk in the park. He asked that I join him."

"Then tomorrow I will somehow be arrayed in the sun tone, Mr. Darcy. Good night."

"Good night, Miss Bennet."

Continued in Next Section