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Chapter 34 - Lady Catherine Lectures

Posted on 2008-09-29

The fact that Darcy smiled more whenever he happened upon the two young ladies practicing at the pianoforte had not gone unnoticed by either Richard or Lady Catherine. While the former could tease his cousin in an annoying manner whenever they found themselves alone, to say that the latter was not amused by the camaraderie clearly existing between her nephews and this Miss Bennet was an understatement.

Suspecting that Elizabeth wished to form an attachment between either one to raise her family up in society, Lady Catherine watched carefully to see if there was a growing fondness on either Richard or Darcy's side toward the lady lately being welcomed into Rosings for Anne's benefit.

Up to this point Lady Catherine had condescended to allow these visits while keeping a sharp eye for anything more than merely the innocent budding relationship by Elizabeth between Anne, which both Richard and Darcy professes it to be.

One day, however, while seated in the study listening to Mr. Collins drone on about some boring parish matter, Lady Catherine's mind wandered back a few weeks before her nephews arrived. Remembering how her attempts to aid Miss Bennet and her sisters in seeking employment at the anticipation of Mr. Bennet's passing had been rebuffed without the civility she felt her due, Lady Catherine was not sure she wished Miss Bennet so near her only daughter.

The final straw came when she and her parson exited into the hallway to overhear Darcy relate to Richard his wager with Miss Bennet over which of them could write the better sermon. Mr. Collins' expression showed his being appalled at the notion of any not well versed in theology having the audacity to think their being qualified for such an undertaking, least of all a woman!

Though Mr. Collins' profusely apologized, promising that he would severely admonish his cousin upon his return to the parsonage, Lady Catherine was deaf to his contrition. She did not even notice that he departed soon afterwards to chastise Elizabeth. Her Ladyship was livid.

To have this conduct under my very roof is not to be borne.

Lady Catherine called in her booming voice, "Nephew, I need to speak with you in my private study, if you will oblige me."

Richard and Darcy exchanged glances. "Such an uncommon event, Darcy, cannot bode well for you."

To that statement Darcy could not but agree with his grim nod. The only other time he remembered attending his aunt in her study was when, as a youth, he was reprimanded for some blatant infraction of her ever restrictive rules of conduct. He thought this might be of similar reason though he could not conceive what misbehavior he had perpetrated during this latest visit.

Richard smirked, "Shall I wait to see if you need liquid consolation afterwards?"

Darcy shook his head. "I shall meet you in the morning for a ride to visit the tenants, thereafter to report what we find to Mr. Everton."

"I bid you goodnight then."

When Darcy entered Lady Catherine's study, he found her seated behind her ornate desk cluttered with several neat stacks of estate papers. Her bifocal spectacles were perched on the end of her nose, reminding him of a barrister ready to read his client a case decision that had just been handed down instead of her rendering her opinion on some familial matter.

"Nephew, the reason I have asked to see you in private is due to a particular nature of which I have become aware and am most displeased."

Calmly Darcy asked, "Of which I assume you intend to address that I likewise be made aware?"

Frowning, Lady Catherine continued, "I have chosen to give you a great amount of leeway to acclimate yourself to the rigors of managing so large an estate as Pemberley before requiring you to settle upon my Anne as its Mistress. However, the time has come that you make good on your pledge. She expects it of you and has waited long enough."

"Aunt, as I have often told you, no such alliance stands between myself and my cousin. Neither of us wish to enter into such a union so there is nothing to be done for it, no matter how much you desire it."

Undaunted, the great lady countered, "It is no great surprise to me that young people are not inclined to know what is best for them. That is why it is left up to their elders to set up the match, merely to move them toward that end for which both have been destined since infancy."

Darcy sighed at her implication that even as a young man he was less able to manage his own house than she. "Having been the master of my own estate these past five years, Aunt, I respectfully am disinclined to believe myself incapable of knowing what is in my own best interests."

"You are still one of the youngest of our family, nephew, and as such are required to listen and obey those who are more experienced than you in life."

"On that matter, Aunt, you are greatly mistaken."

His patience wavered at his readiness to refute with even greater conviction than before his aunt's claims for the union of their two estates through marriage to his cousin. If Lady Catherine succeeded in combining both houses, Darcy knew she would demand too much control over the affairs of Pemberley. Then he remembered such a desire must have grown from his aunt's bitterness of her own marriage in view of his parents' happier one, giving him some measure of sympathy toward her.

Suddenly she began a wholly unrelated topic to leave him speechless. "And this continued spectacle I witnessed at dinner at the acquaintance you keep with that Bennet woman is most unseemly. You will henceforth cut all ties with her."

Recovering after a moment's reflection, Darcy calmly replied, "I will do no such thing."

She continued her threat, "Else I will be forced to take drastic steps in ridding myself of all her relations."

Darcy's look was one of incredulity. "You would dismiss your parson for no other reason than my refusal to relinquish an innocent association? Aunt, I am astonished that you would go to such lengths to deprive your parish of a now familiar priest merely out of spite over my friendship with Miss Bennet. More, I am appalled at so blatant an attempt to manipulate my actions, and I resent the implication that I have behaved indecorously toward the lady in question."

"It is not your conduct that I take exception to, nephew." Lady Catherine sniffed. "You have always acted with propriety. I speak, rather of Miss Bennet's unveiled arts and allurements to turn your head from your duty and family obligations."

His aunt's patent accusations that Miss Bennet had acted in any manner other than what propriety allowed as well as her implication that he was so weak minded as to follow blindly after any young woman incensed Darcy. His icy stare reflected back onto hers. "Madam, there is nothing more you need say to me. I understand you perfectly."

Lady Catherine nodded smugly, thinking her point was taken and they were in complete agreement as to the outcome. "I hope you do, nephew."

But when Darcy continued, it was clear he had an altogether contrary opinion on the matter from that which his aunt could not but be astonished. "There only remains for me to state that whether or not I continue an association with Miss Bennet or any other lady of my choosing, it is of no concern to you."

Lady Catherine's head snapped up to stare at him in utter confusion. "What?"

"Furthermore, know this with the certainty I know you are capable, Aunt." Darcy's voice was the model of restrained control as he uttered his ultimatum. "Never will I enter into any alliance with Anne, nor any other for which you have a hand."

"Fitzwilliam Darcy, I will not be spoken to in such a manner!"

"Nor will I be commanded to do your bidding though I am near the youngest of the family." He towered over her desk as he added through clenched teeth, "And I will not give you the satisfaction of attempting through marriage to control an estate that once belonged to my father, and for which I will never allow to be run down."

Defensively she sputtered out, "I have well managed Rosings for all these years!"

"Yes, with mine and Richard's help over the objections of your steward in whose judgment we have been woefully disappointed these past ten years. Your reluctance to replace him with a man of greater vision puts your own abilities in running Rosings into question."

Indignantly she vowed, "There is no reason for me to step down after all this time!"

"I agree that while Anne has grown you have acted adequately on her behalf, but at her twenty-fifth birthday she will inherit Rosings from her father. As such, she needs to be made aware of certain aspects as to its management."

Darcy's voice had remained calm during his harsh words of rebuke, but he had informed Lady Catherine of facts that she had not known he was aware. At first taken aback, she stared at his awareness, finally stuttering, "And h-how do you know of the conditions of my husband's will? Was it my brother who informed you?"

Darcy nodded. "As master of so large an estate as Pemberley, he thought me capable of answering several questions which had escaped him as the executor of the will. In the process of these queries, he made me aware of the stipulation that gives Anne the property when she comes of age. She will be a very wealthy woman in a short time."

To this Lady Catherine sneered, "And prey for every fortune hunter in the country!" Beseeching him, she added, "That is why I wished for you to wed her, to keep her out of their hands, to combine the management of both estates that-"

"That you would expect to have a hand at overseeing as you have done with Rosings these many years," finished Darcy. "I think not, Aunt. I have a competent steward, and therefore have no need of your services."

In indignation, she said, "I would never interfere with any decisions you thought right and..."

Her voice trailed off as his silent stare told her that he knew her words were lies. They both knew she would never be content to live out her days in the dower house to not be involved in the management of one if not both estates, something Darcy would never willingly allow.

"Had Anne been under Uncle's Henry's protection, perhaps some arrangement could have been made for her, but never with me, Aunt. Neither she nor I wish it so."

She was wont to blame someone other than herself, speaking out of spite, "It is because of that Bennet woman!"

Here Darcy actually chuckled at her temerity. "No, Aunt. Miss Bennet is merely a friend whose company I enjoy as I do Richard's. The fact that she is of a different gender does not signify more than friendship. We merely have common interests on which to opine, another fact keenly lacking in my relationship with Anne. Truth be told, she is more in tune with Richard than myself. With Sir Louis's military background and exploits, which he took great pains instilling into Anne, it gives her and Richard amble supply of material to converse upon for hours without boredom. With their common interests to infuse some affection in the union, had you ever thought that perhaps he might be the better choice?"

Lady Catherine sneered, "There is more to marriage than affection."

"That is true, Aunt, but it is what makes such an alliance bearable."

"I am not insensitive as to your worry over what is to become of Anne in the future." Pausing to see her composure returning to reason, he continued, "But I also know you would wish Anne some happiness in marriage." Offering her a glass of sherry, he added cautiously, "more so perhaps than you were afforded?"

Lady Catherine gasped at his gentle admonishment as to the reason she held her current adamancy of his being Anne's suitor regardless of either's wishes.

How is it that he is aware of the penury of affection within my marriage? Had Henry spoken to him of that too?

Her expression gave away her thoughts to have Darcy admit, "Aunt, even as children when we took our annual spring visit to Rosings, all of us could sense the unease within the household, though it was not until we were older that we gleaned its true meaning."

She closed her eyes and sighed.

They all knew that my marriage to Sir Louis had not been a happy one.

Her mind reflected back on those earlier times that had begun with such promise. As far as arranged marriages went, it was most advantageous for both sides. Her title and dowry, his properties and knighthood seemed a perfect match. Had there been any affection on his part toward the young maiden who seemed so eager to wed, perhaps the disappointment would not have been so pronounced in his bride.

Sir Louis had been a confirmed bachelor well into his forties, and had, by a fluke, been persuaded into the matrimonial state. Discord became apparent almost immediately following their nuptials as the elderly gentleman found that not only did his bride insist he perform his husbandly duties on a regular basis, but that she was likewise resolute in being allowed access to the management of his estate, a demand for which he was loathe to give his consent. He reasoned women incapable of higher mental skills required for estate management. Then he smiled at the solution to such a predicament.

Should she became with child, her focus would soon be concentrated in that arena.

He chuckled almost with glee, happily complying with the first of her decrees, hoping for a fruitful outcome, but it was not to be. Over the years, after each unsuccessful pregnancy ended in miscarriage for which an elderly former bachelor had no sensitivity, the young bride grew bitter towards her obtuse husband and all he stood for. Her shrew-like tendencies surfaced to a near permanent state during their last attempt at a family, resulting in the poor man deciding that, for wedded felicitation and his own sanity, to take up residence at his club in London more often than not. It happened to be where he was during the birth of his daughter, a sickly child, born too early after a prolonged labor that left her mother in no condition to tend her.

The wet nurse was called in, but something in her milk disagreed with the babe who floundered, barely holding on to life through many maladies that worried and aged the young mother before her time, and unfortunately did nothing to lessen her abhorrence toward her apparently uncaring husband who shirked his duties toward home and family.

An icy chill descended whenever he came into a room that was occupied by his wife. It was enough to have all her relatives scurry to other parts of Rosings other than that parlor. Sir Louis took up permanent residence in town, conducting his affairs with his solicitors and steward in private rooms in town rather than returning to his wife at Rosings.

Without his support, he left his young wife feeling abandoned, growing more vehement in her perturbance of what she viewed as a man without courage or honor. Still, even after his death some years later, she never said a sour word to anyone outside the family.

Darcy clearing his throat bought Catherine's thoughts back to the present as she gazed with new eyes upon her nephew.

But they must have known all along how wretched life had become, to have my husband prefer always being in town at his club, doing heaven knows what instead of being with his family.

"Aunt, are you unwell? Do you require something more for your present relief?" Darcy was concerned at her unshed tears.

Coming out of her reverie, she sniffed, ignoring his question, instead asking, "You will not oblige me then?"

Darcy shook his head in final determination, stating with conviction, "But together with Richard, I swear we will keep Anne safe." He offered her another glass of sherry, which she accepted as she did his promise to care for Anne. Both eased her mind.

Sipping, she ventured to ask again, "And it is not the Bennet woman that has clouded your mind?"

Darcy smiled, shaking his head. "No, she is merely a friend, Aunt."

Lady Catherine nodded at his resolute admission, placated that nothing unforeseen would ever occur between him and the country gentleman's daughter. For the remainder of her stay at Hunsford Miss Bennet would be allowed visits to Anne daily for her lessons.

Darcy finally felt at ease to leave her to her thoughts.

Sipping her sherry, Lady Catherine was confident her plan for Anne and Darcy to wed was still not yet a hopeless cause no matter his adamant refusals.

He will come around to my point of view in due time.

By week's end, Anne had confidently mastered playing simple duets with Elizabeth much to the enjoyment of both. Still aware of the unease within Rosings by the nephews, the time spent with Anne was Elizabeth only sanctuary from Lady Catherine's abuse whenever she was invited to dine along with the rest of the Hunsford party.

The last day Elizabeth was permitted to attend to the lesson, she and Anne busied themselves at the instrument, filling the room with delightful music while Mrs. Jenkinson sat nearby with her embroidery.

Anne began to play the piece she had been working on that day, her fingers effortlessly pushing the keys with the emotion she naturally recognized was evoked from the work. Both ladies complemented her on her accomplishment.

Anne smiled. "Mrs. Jenkinson, I forgot my shawl from my sitting room. Would you be so kind as to retrieve it?"

"Of course, Miss DeBourgh," Mrs. Jenkinson nodded, already rising and putting her needlework aside to do as she was bid. "I shall be back momentarily."

When she heard her companion close the door, Anne continued to play but with more volume than necessary, giving Elizabeth pause as to the reason until Anne said in a hushed tone, "I think there is something between my two cousins."

"Indeed," Elizabeth agreed with the assessment in equally whispered tones, glancing to the door to wonder where Mrs. Jenkinson had got to. "How do you know this?"

Anne smirked. "When one is completely still in a room, people tend to think they are quite alone and so speak without the thought of their being overheard."

Elizabeth smiled in a conspiratory manner that seemed to encourage Anne. "My sister Mary has a similar notion."

Glancing to note the lack of her companion's return, Anne whispered, "But my cousins often speak in riddles so I am not sure of whom they refer. However, I think it must be something serious about one of my other relatives, and they wish my mother not to be informed of it."

"If it is as you say, I wonder why they would not wish to tell her."

Anne DeBourgh's expression resembled one Lydia often shown when wondering at so obvious an answer to the previous statement. "In case you have not noticed, my mother tends to have opinions on many things."

The corners of Elizabeth mouth twitched to prevent a smile from escaping at hearing so quiet a girl to speak in jest. Her only comment came in the form of an arched brow as her hands joined Anne's to play the second part of the opus.

Anne continued with another whisper, "I think they wish to keep her in the dark rather than explain what is still unresolved between them."

At this Elizabeth nodded. She tended to keep unwelcome news from members of her family before some solution could be fixed upon.

Anne played on for a while before asking, "You are not privy to whatever they seem to hold dear, are you?"

Elizabeth gasped, "No, why would you think so?"

"Well, Richard reminded me that you all spent time with one another while in London, implying that you were on quite friendly terms then."

Shaking her head, Elizabeth admitted, "They have not confided in me, nor do I think they are inclined to do so, being that I am neither family nor so close an acquaintance as to illicit their trust." This last part came out with more bitterness than she would wish to convey.

Anne continued to play as she pressed on. "That was not my impression at seeing you all conversing in the drawing room." Anne continued to play the Debussy's Clair de Lune along with Elizabeth.

Giggling, Elizabeth teased, admitting, "They do make a point of talking a great deal but say little of consequence to me."

"Hmmm," was all Anne could response, at now hearing her companion's footfalls to signal her return.

Mrs. Jenkinson was still quite frazzled, saying, "I beg your pardon for the delay at not attending you directly, Miss DeBourgh. Your maid and I had a time finding your shawl, which must have accidentally fallen behind the settee in your sitting room. I am sorry for such a long absence."

Wishing to put the lady at ease, Anne smiled innocently. "That is quite all right, Mrs. Jenkinson. Elizabeth and I had a wonderful time while she taught me a bit more of this opus. Is that not so, Elizabeth?"

"Y-Yes," Elizabeth stammered seeing Anne's expression that urged discretion. Neither wished to have Mrs. Jenkinson discover of what they had spoken, sure that Anne's companion who have no qualms about relating such a discussion to Lady Catherine.

Satisfied, Mrs. Jenkinson continued, "Her Ladyship said that you now need to rest, Miss DeBourgh. I can escort you to your rooms."

"Thank you, Mrs. Jenkinson, but would you be kind enough to have my maid ready some water that I might freshen up beforehand?"

"Of course, Miss DeBourgh," Mrs. Jenkinson acknowledged. "I will take care of that at once."

Turning to Elizabeth, Anne sighed, saying, "It seems our lessons are at an end, Elizabeth."

"Yes, but as your mother has often extolled, one cannot improve unless one takes the time to practice." Elizabeth smiled at the young lady she has lately found some common ground.

Anne nodded back as they rose from the bench and removed to the hallway, slowly making their way to the front door, teasing, "I will suggest a light schedule for my burgeoning musical accomplishments," adding with a more serious tone, "Perhaps she will allow it if I can get Fitzwilliam to suggest it as beneficial to my health."

Elizabeth arched her bow as she tried not to giggle while saying, "No doubt," adding sincerely, "In any case, I wish you well."

"And I wish you a safe journey. You depart on the day after the morrow?"

"Yes, most likely at an early hour for the post coach drives by the parsonage at around seven in the morning."

Anne paused before offering, "If you would care to write to me...we could keep in touch by that means." Seeing Elizabeth purse her lips, Anne then asked, "You doubt I would respond to your letters?"

"No, it is not that," Elizabeth admitted as the two paused at the front door. "It is just another of your cousins made the same offer, but after but one letter, I never heard from her again."

Knowing exactly to whom Elizabeth referred, Anne said, "That is odd behavior, for I found her normally to be a most faithful correspondent. Perhaps I can find out the reason behind such a lapse"

"Please do not trouble yourself. It is of no matter." Elizabeth kind words were a stark contrast to how her shoulder slumped when she spoke, which seem to imply the opposite, that she had been hurt by the neglect.

Elizabeth then gave Anne a warm smile and both young women lowered in proper curtseys, and after a pause, they awkwardly hugged.

"Good-bye, Elizabeth. Remember me to your family."

"I will. Take care and keep practicing or I shall never hear the end of it from my cousin!" She giggled her admonishment.

Anne smiled and actually teased Elizabeth with, "You begin to sound like my Mother."

At this Elizabeth laughed out loud, covering her mouth. "Heaven forbid that we would have anything in common!"

"Well, common sense does sometimes erupt from the most unlikely of sources."

"True," Elizabeth nodded. "Why even Mr. Collins has been known to make salient points from time to time."

This left both prone to giggles.

As the door closed on her for, most likely, the last time, Elizabeth sighed. Making her way down the path she hurried her steps back to the parsonage to finish packing.

At least I have made some inroads into having at least one friend at Rosings, unless that too goes awry for some unknown reason.

That was how she penned her missive to Jane that night. Elizabeth could not help reflect on the fact that she had managed to overcome one hurdle in being welcomed at Rosings by Her Ladyship in her tentative friendship with Anne.

By putting forth a bit of kindness and little else of my own accord she wrote her sister, the young lady had begun to show a marked improvement in both her disposition and a willingness to make healthier choices in her life. The end result has been that some of the tension between myself and Lady Catherine has subsided but has not altogether abated.

Elizabeth added that she hoped Miss DeBourgh befriended Charlotte with frequent visits that would extended beyond merely stopping by the road in her phaeton and pony cart, thus giving the young lady a more varied society than she had at Rosings. As she dusted the ink before folding and sealing the letter, Elizabeth smiled at the thought.

At least that would be some progress, if a very little.

Chapter 35 - The Last Meetings at Rosings

Posted on 2008-10-14

Toward the end of her Hunsford stay with little to recommend her enjoyment, Elizabeth was anxious to be away, eager to be reunited with Jane. That very afternoon she had received Jane's latest missive to have her sister know how still affected the writer was with its less than cheery contents. By the time Elizabeth was dining at Rosings, her mood had not improved but remained somber enough throughout that evening to have Lady Catherine take note.

"You are very dull this evening, Miss Bennet. Are you ill?"

"I am well, Your Ladyship," Elizabeth assured her.

"Your being out of sorts is due no doubt to being deprived of my nephews' company with your planned departure."

Darcy saw Elizabeth arch her brow while stating impertinently, "Yes, of course, that must be the reason."

Lady Catherine continued, "Then you shall remain with us awhile longer."

Elizabeth tried not to react more than have her eyes widen at such an invitation she knew to be insincere enough to have her mind recoil.

Heaven forbid!

Keeping her voice calm, she claimed, "I cannot, Your Ladyship. I have received a letter from my father already wishing my return to Longbourn."

"Oh, a father can spare you if your mother can," scoffed Lady Catherine, adding with some bitter conviction, "Daughters are of no consequence to a father." She then proposed, "And if you stay for six weeks complete it would be within my power to take you and Miss Lucas to London myself in the barouche. Neither of you are but slight in your figures."

Mr. Collins nearly squealed with unbridled drooling at his benefactress' unprecedented offer. Having himself never been given the opportunity to ride in so grand a carriage by Her Ladyship, he verily squirmed in his seat, ready to accept the gesture on his cousin's behalf.

Elizabeth had other ideas. "I thank you, Lady Catherine, but I must be home as my plans were set by my uncle in London."

"But, but-but, Cousin Elizabeth," Mr. Collins sputtered in his most whiney voice, "You cannot decline Her Ladyship's most gracious gesture-"

"Yes, Mr. Collins, I can," she said with determination, "and I do, however kindly it was meant."

Lady Catherine did not give the man more time to argue his point with his cousin, but continued her conversation with Elizabeth. "At least allow Mr. Collins to accompany you on your journey."

"My Uncle is sending his man to escort us when we change to the post, Mum."

The elderly lady nodded, impressed. "Your uncle keeps a manservant, does he? That is commendable to have him be of service to you. Where will you change horses?"

"At Brom-"

"At Bromley, of course," interrupted Lady Catherine. "Mention my name at the Bell and they will attend you."

"Yes, Mum," Elizabeth demurred, able to speak with a greater measure of civility now that Lady Catherine was more accepting of her departure. Glancing up to the two other gentlemen in the room, Elizabeth noticed neither made to comment on the previous conversation.

After his talk with his Aunt, Darcy thought it best to keep a more formal demeanor between Elizabeth and himself. For the greater part of the evening he determined to remain virtually silent, responding only to questions put to him without giving his opinion.

Those few who thought Darcy's behavior out of sorts made no mention of it. Even Richard seemed more reflective, having had his fill of his Aunt enough to appear less responsive than usual. He made the attempt to be his charming self, but less spontaneous, choosing to observe the group with even greater care than usual, to take note of both his cousins' altered attitude.

By contrast, Anne did put forth the effort to say more than a few words about her recent forays at the pianoforte to which both Charlotte and to a lesser extent Mariah gave her encouraging responses.

Before the subject had been exhausted, Lady Catherine entered into the conversation with a query of the condition of the parsonage poultry. Inquiring as to their egg laying abilities, Charlotte naturally answered in a satisfactory reply. Lady Catherine then launched into a speech about how many eggs each hen must lay in order not to be remanded to the dinner table.

It was all Elizabeth could do to keep from giggling at Her Ladyship's intense interest in the state of the parsonage chickens. Glancing over to her friend to share in their private joke at his Aunt's expense, Elizabeth's mood was tempered by Darcy's somber indifference to the subject at hand. Suspecting his reticence more profound than usual, Elizabeth recalled two days prior when he happened upon Anne and herself practicing at the pianoforte, and acted in a similar cool manner.

Darcy found it was proving difficult for him to remain aloof. Only through force of will could he maintain such coolness with the result being to make Elizabeth instantly aware of his changed demeanor. She determined it was his wish to sever all ties, and responded with equally strict politeness.

Now this evening with his renewed outward appearance bordering on the side of cold civility, she too desired to appear unruffled by it. Though she felt acutely the pain of his eagerness at relinquishing their friendship, she refused to allow it show outwardly.

I would not have him know of it.

The rest of the evening passed in relative quiet with Elizabeth at the instrument and exhibiting her flourish that was complemented on by the rest of the party sans Lady Catherine.

Afterwards, with much encouragement, Anne obliged them by accompanying Elizabeth. With a simple duet, to display her bourgeoning talents, she delighted her mother. Lady Catherine's praise, however, was overly much for the young lady whose hand shook throughout her performance. Elizabeth tried her best to quell Anne's fright at being forced to play after so short a time, glad she had joined Anne lest she totally embarrass herself.

Elizabeth whispered, "You did well for a first attempt."

Anne scoffed back, "I slurred and fudged my way through all of the passages. That is all I can attest to."

Feeling her hand being squeezed, Anne looked up to Elizabeth's smiling face and gentle admonishment. "No, that is not all you accomplished. You finished the piece, not stopping until the end. That is tantamount to running a race and coming to the finish line." I am very proud of you, for it shows a determination to persevere in the face of adversity," adding as she waggled her eyebrows, " the mark of great character. Do not be discouraged to make mistakes on the way to accomplishing a goal." She whispered her final encouragement, "Perfection is not a prerequisite to an end."

Anne scoffed, "Do not let my mother hear you say such. She prides herself on perfection above all else."

"Which is why she will never be satisfied with a great many things. Enjoy the effort, Anne, and you will be happier for it."

To this Anne smiled, promising, "I will try."

Squeezing her hand again, the ladies joined the rest for cards before the evening came to a merciful close.

As the morning before her journey dawned, Elizabeth was given the opportunity for another stroll in the still blossoming groves before leaving. Taking Jane's latest letter, she walked slowly through the lovely trees, reflecting upon the beauty of Rosings' only bit of wilderness.

Oh, Jane, the more I frequent the manor house and am in company with those at present in residence, the more I am inclined in favor of Mr. Wickham's attitude that Darcy pretends a rapport with someone due only to circumstance and for his own pleasure rather than that of a true blending of the minds.

A noise intruded upon her reverie to have Elizabeth glance up, thinking it to be Mr. Darcy. Knowing her penchant for the paths along the groves, he often intruded upon her solitude, so she waited.

However, seeing the color of his regimental coat, it became apparent that the identity of the gentleman walking the same paths as she was that of Lady Catherine's other nephew.

"Miss Bennet," the Colonel greeted with a smile, bowing to her. "I had not expected to see you so early in the day, but rather later at Hunsford during afternoon tea."

"Colonel," she returned his greeting with a nod. "I am sure Mr. Darcy has related that I often go out for a stroll in early morning, finding it a restorative to the stress caused by many evenings when...disagreeably engaged."

His eyes narrowed at her words, suspecting some unpleasantness either at the parsonage or perhaps due to the letter she held at her side and where his eyes rested for a fraction before returning to her face. "I hope your family is in good health."

She followed the path his eyes had taken and nodded as she folded her letter. Turning down the lane, she eased his mind, "Yes, Colonel, all my family remains well."

He laughed, "Then is it my family to which you infer? For many weeks now I am sure you may have observed that my Aunt's manner and attitude to those in her company is not considered to be the most cordial."

Elizabeth pursed her lips rather than comment on what she truly felt of the woman's rudeness, and of her nephews refusal to curb it, saying only, "We have grown accustom to Her Ladyship's penchant for expressing opinions on everything."

The Colonel laughed, offering her his arm as invitation to join him, which she easily accepted. He instinctively knew from his perceptive nature that all was not well with the usually unflappable Miss Bennet.

"You are to depart for London on the morrow, I understand?"

"Yes," she acknowledged, adding, "Although as you witnessed last night, Lady Catherine tried to have me commit to additional time with the promise of the use of her barouche box if we stayed six weeks complete. I found I could not accept her kind offer."

"You have no desire to continue in the country when the excitement of town awaits?"

Despite Elizabeth's wish to remain irritated, she smiled at his attempt to tease her into a better humor. "The excitement of London can hold no sway, Colonel, to my desire to be re-united with my sister. Jane is staying with my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner."

Richard finished her thought with, "Ah, the lovely Miss Bennet...whose spirits are low even with all the hustle and bustle of London society? No," he added, "Not merely by the town society, but rather the lack of society of a certain amiable gentleman whom we are both well acquainted?"

Elizabeth sighed. "Jane has heard nothing of him since the Christmas season except for a lone note from Miss Bingley to say that her brother is quite busy with his own amusements. Mr. Darcy has even said he saw little of him when he remained in town over winter.

At her acknowledgement of Darcy's confession to his remaining in London, Richard only nodded, wondering silently what else his cousin had spoken of in her presence.

In fact, Richard remained so stoically silent as they walked side by side that Elizabeth was apt to compare his demeanor to his cousin. It was so uncharacteristic of the Colonel that Elizabeth felt there was something he was deliberately not telling her.

Sensing her unease, Richard felt compelled to state, "As to Mr. Bingley, I can assure you of the validity of Darcy's statement. He, likewise, did little in the way of socializing during that time, and I do not recall his mentioning seeing his friend more than once while in London. I did not have any more knowledge of the gentleman before we embarked to Kent. I am sorry that I am unable to ease your sister's mind."

He finally took a moment to gaze at his walking partner to see if that was enough explanation to satisfy her. Elizabeth appeared placated at such a confirmation.

That does coincide with Darcy's statement.

Sensing his wish to move on to a more neutral subject, Elizabeth gazed out to the expanse of the park. "You come here every spring then?"

"Yes, since I was a child," he smiled at her intuitive nature easing them in the change of topic. Waving his hand to indicate the entirety of Rosings, he added, "Though now I come annually to ensure that the lands are yielding near to their potential and that the tenants are not too unhappy at their being under the management by my aunt." He waggled his eyebrows to make Elizabeth aware of what his tact was neglecting to say of Lady Catherine's insensitivity toward those working Rosings' acreage.

Elizabeth nodded her understanding, and then asked, "And does an annual inspection take so prolonged a time to ensure that the estate is not being mismanaged or neglected?"

"Actually, no," he admitted. "In years previous, Darcy and I would review the books with the steward and survey the grounds with a normal efficiency that takes a matter of a week or a fortnight at most. We are usually on our way back to town by now. Had it not been for Darcy delaying us not once but twice-"

At this Elizabeth interrupted, "I see I am not the only one Lady Catherine commands to remain in residence," adding with a tease, "to give her an audience before whom to perform," finishing her thought with, "Or does Mr. Darcy enjoy being compelled to stay in Kent with his intended?"

Richard stopped walking to stare at the incredulity of her statement, unsure if her tease was intended as some coquettish game played by those ladies of the town.

Seeing his blank stare, she explained, "Lady Catherine earlier mentioned his engagement with Miss DeBourgh?"

Richard was quick to refute his aunt's declaration. "Darcy and my cousin are not engaged, Miss Bennet."

It was now Elizabeth's turn to stare blankly, her mouth forming a perfect O. "I am sure all of us could not have misunderstood so simple a statement, Colonel."

Sighing, he admitted, "My Aunt wishes for the union and so promotes her beliefs to any who would listen. Darcy, however, has refused her every attempt to speak of such an alliance, which I assure you, is not desired by either cousin." He remembered their subsequent conversation in which Darcy related his discussion with their Aunt, punctuated with his denials of having more than a friendly relationship with Miss Elizabeth.

Are neither of them is aware of the other? How incredible that two intelligent people can be so blind as to their own suitability.

Elizabeth acknowledged,. "No wonder Miss DeBourgh seemed out of sorts when her mother made the pronouncement to our party. Why, then would Lady Catherine proclaim it as fact when it is so premature? What could be her motive?"

Richard's eye then narrowed in further concentration, wondering if this Miss Bennet was so naïve to what even his Aunt must have suspected.

How can she be so ignorant not to see that Lady Catherine wishes to claim Darcy for Anne before an obvious rival?

Her innocent stare told the whole, allowing Richard to come to his own conclusion.

Is she was truly unaware of what power I suspect she holds over Darcy?

Elizabeth asked, "Colonel, what is it?"

Or is there something else that keeps either Miss Bennet and Darcy from seeing what is plain to others?

Seeing Elizabeth's expression of concern, Richard returned to his usual charming self, turning his eyes back to the path, and saying, "I am sure I haven't a clue, but that we must leave it to Darcy to sort it all out. In the meantime, Miss Bennet, shall we continue our walk?" Motioning them onward, he offered her his arm.

To Elizabeth, his less than satisfactory statement was a clear indication that the matter was now closed to further discussion without his answering her query. Since she could no longer speak on the matter, the only thing left to her was to smile. "Of course," she nodded, accepting his assistance, sighing with resignation that he would not reveal any of what he was thinking.

Conversing on several topics but without saying anything of consequent, they continued along the way until they came across a large tree root erupting into the path. Being a gentleman, he offered his other hand for support as she gingerly sidestepped the offending root. They soon came to the path leading to the parsonage and Richard bid her good day.

Watching him continue along to Rosings, Elizabeth could not decide what to make of either gentlemen whose company she had previously enjoyed, but who now were both more withdrawn and secretive.

Clearly, that was the most circuitous conversation I have ever had with the man!

Elizabeth turned her back to the path and ambled along toward the welcoming smoke of the parsonage. She knew that there, at least, she would find no secrets upon which to ponder. As far as it concerned her, it seemed neither of the gentlemen desired more acquaintance from her than what now existed. She shook her head in a dismissive manner.

After today, I should no longer garner their friendship if they are determined not to renew the same ease shared over Christmas.

With her decision made as to that finality, Elizabeth thought no more of them. Instead, she smiled at readying her trunk in anticipation of her journey to London and a reunion with Jane in whose company she knew she would find welcoming solace.

Chapter 36 - A Disturbance Upon Elizabeth's Departure

The morning of her departure Elizabeth woke early enough to think that none of the Hunsford family would yet be awake. Dressing quickly, she ventured forth only to hear a lament coming from Mariah's room. Upon knocking and being granted entrance, she found the poor girl kneeling over her trunk in a vain attempt to repack her gowns.

"Mariah, I thought the maids had already packed all your things."

"Yes, but then at dinner last evening Lady Catherine made such a point as to the only correct way of folding gowns that I had to come home directly and attempt to do as she bid. I have yet to see how it is done to satisfy Her Ladyship."

Pursing her lips to keep from laughing, Elizabeth knelt down beside the frazzled girl. "Mariah, your trunk was efficiently packed with the utmost care by your sister's maids. You can have no qualms about how your gowns rested on the top."

"Oh but Lizzy, if Lady Catherine ever finds out that-"

Elizabeth explained, "Unless you have a mind to inform her yourself," only to have Mariah eyes widen in abject fear. Elizabeth whispered conspiratorially, "She will never know."

This lifted Mariah's brows to her hairline with such a realization as Elizabeth gave her a comforting hug before rising. "Refold them on the top as best you can that they will not suffer many wrinkles before securing the lid so the maids will not be cross with you for undoing all their efforts on your behalf."

At that, she left Mariah to her work in favor of one last glimpse of Rosings groves. They had been her favorite spot during her visit for much of the background had been untouched by the zealous gardeners' efforts to mold it to Her Ladyship's demand for manicured order. Its wilderness put Elizabeth more in mind of the grounds of Longbourn. Finding her favorite tree, she sat against the bough and opened her book of sonnets, determined to commune with nature one last time before she left the area for good.

Her tranquility was disturbed not long afterwards by the trudging of two riders who had dismounted to give their horses a breather from an obvious lathered hard competition that men were wont to engage in. It was not difficult to recognize the two as they were the only gentlemen in residence at the time.

Darcy was lamenting, "I still think it was unnecessary not to inform Miss Bennet."

The Colonel seemed exasperated at his cousin's insistence to allow the lady into their circle of secrecy. "You seemed to have gotten on with her well enough, Cousin without allowing her to know." Richard noticed his horse beginning to limp and stopped to inspect his horse's front hoof. Using his pen knife he set to digging out a rock the beast had managed to wedge near the shoe.

Elizabeth frowned, feeling some mortification at overhearing a private conversation that involved her. Slowly she closed her book, hoping they hadn't heard the pages fluttering in the breeze and remained quite still that they not take notice of her presence to the embarrassment of them all. It was impossible for her not to listen.

Unaware, Darcy went on, "There was such awkwardness between us with my having to worry over what I said around her that she not suspect. Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence."

"She is a bright one, is she not?" Richard begrudgingly admitted, dropping the animal's hoof as they continued down the path toward Rosings' stables. "Had even I not taken care to be cautious when speaking with her, she would have reasoned it out."

At that Darcy nodded agreement, but defended her, saying, "She would have told no one, Richard."

"Cousin," began Richard, his tone implying that the subject had been oft spoken of, "Though I am sure Miss Bennet would not mean to speak out of turn, you know how these things can get out. She might merely say something in passing to her friend only to have it either overheard by the sister or, heaven forbid, that toad of a clergyman, who would take no time scurrying along the Rosing's path to inform Lady Catherine. No, it was best left unsaid, and Miss Bennet is to soon depart without ever being aware. She will be none the wiser and therefore unable to pass along any rumors."

Elizabeth hung her head, her lips pursed in thought.

So, there was a confidence between the two of them.

Though Darcy was loathe to have been made to act so duplicitously, he admitted, "I suppose you are right, Richard. The fewer people to know of it, the better kept will be the secret."

Richard slapped his cousin on the back. "Spoken like a true co-conspirator, Cousin." Seeing Darcy's frown at such an appellation and continued sulk, Richard added, "If by chance you are fortunate enough to meet Miss Bennet again at some future time, perhaps circumstances will have changed to give you the freedom to relate what was not in your purview to reveal during this visit."

After they had moved some distance away, Elizabeth found in lieu of the intrigue she had been accidentally privy to, the sonnets of her book could no longer hold her interest. She scoffed at now having full knowledge of what the two gentlemen truly thought of her.

Neither think me trustworthy enough to be privy to whatever secret they harbored.

Rising, she dusted off the loose grass and bits of blossoms from her skirts and made her way back to the parsonage, refusing to believe she ever thought them her friends.

Well, it is their loss, not mine.

Before she could think more of them she noticed that the post coach had already arrived in the interim, allowing her no more time to even dwell on what she had overheard.

Charlotte was busy supervising the stowing of both hers and Mariah's trunks with the aid of the post driver, along with helper who was then to sit upon the roof of the carriage for the return trip to London.

Hugging Charlotte while Mr. Collins handed Mariah into the coach, Elizabeth could not but feel some pity for her friend being connected with her cousin. "Charlotte, I wish you well."

Charlotte kissed her cheek, whispering, "I am sorry this was not more pleasant." Pulling away, she added," Safe journey, Lizzy, and give Jane my best." She handed her sister a basket, adding, "I know your habit of walking out too early for breakfast so had cook make this up for you both."

"Thank you, Charlotte, I-"

"Cousin," Mr. Collins said in his syrupy sweet voice.

He had so stealthily neared her, it had clearly unnerved her. Recovering, Elizabeth extended her hand, which he immediately grasped in his sweaty ones. She could barely get out her farewells, "Mr. Collins, I wish you continued health and happiness with Charlotte-"

He refused to release her hand even after she managed to step into the coach and sit down at the window seat. "But you cannot leave yet!"

"I think we must, Mr. Collins," Elizabeth insisted, forcibly pulling her hand free and firmly closing the door. "The coach has stopped here but for a few moments to pick us up, and we must be on its way."

Clearly upset, Mr. Collins continued, "But you have not even written a note to express your gratitude to Lady Catherine's munificence, or to Miss DeBourgh! Surely, you did not mean to omit such a slight in thanking Her Ladyship for such benevolence or-"

"Mr. Collins," Elizabeth interrupted. After exchanging a dubious glance with Charlotte, she forced a smile and continued," I give you leave to express my appreciation to Lady Catherine and to her daughter on my behalf for allowing my visit with them, my best wishes for continued health and-"

The coachman snapped the reins to start the horses moving but Mr. Collins refused to relinquish his conservation. Running along side before the speed was too great to compete with, he puffed his acknowledgement, "Oh, yes, Cousin Elizabeth, I would be most honored to convey your wishes to Her Ladyship and of course, Miss DeBourgh of your...(huff)...most gracious(huff)...good fortune for all the...(huff)...kindnesses she has bestowed..." He could go no further down the path and watched the carriage pick up speed as it set off town London.

Charlotte walked up beside him, "Come, Mr. Collins. They are gone and we have a very busy week to-"

"First, I must go to Rosings to pass along my cousin's respects and appreciation to Lady Catherine. I will return in due time."

With that, off he went, his legs shuffling along the path with a uniquely rodent-like quality that Charlotte could only compare to that of rats scurrying along the edge of the barn to avoid the many feral cats about.

Her eyebrows arched as she watched his figure grow smaller the further away he ran. Knowing that he would be gone most likely for the good part of two hours, she smiled in the knowledge that his unplanned excursion had given her ample time to indulge peacefully in one of her own pastimes.

Yes, Lizzy, do not fret over me. I find I am quite able to be contented with my life.

Inside the carriage, amid the other passengers, Elizabeth was loathe to encourage Mariah's incessant blathering about all she will have to tell of their dining nine times at Rosings and of meeting not only Mr. Darcy but his cousin, a dashing colonel in the Horse Guards.

Instead, she remained silent, her sentiments filled with thinking ill of Lady Catherine for her behavior, which was at best both rude and condescending, and at worst malicious and prone to spiteful jealousy that Elizabeth had known both her nephews prior to her visit. She then wondered perhaps of there being some additional reason for her having received the great lady's ire, but was unable to fathom the cause.

I still do not understand her continued abhorrent behavior.

Likewise, neither gentleman in question was immune to Elizabeth's irritation at their refusing to come to her defense when Her Ladyship saw fit to speak so derisively toward her family and of Elizabeth's father in particular.

I never thought either of them so lacking in fortitude as to allow such atrocious malevolence, nay, be a party to it!

With Mariah droning on, Elizabeth's thoughts continued of Lady Catherine and her nephews, wondering about their views. After such a distance of time and space since Christmas, Elizabeth was reluctant to know how either felt on certain matters.

Did they think similarly to their Aunt of me or Jane? Does Lady Catherine deride others with equal enmity, subjecting even members of her own family to such ridicule? Is that why neither of them said anything against her? For fear of retribution?

As a military man, she could not believe the Colonel so easily kow-towed by such recriminations. Similarly, Mr. Darcy never struck her as one to bend to anyone's wishes if they ran contrary to his own. Still, Elizabeth was left feeling grateful she did not belong in the Fitzwilliam family.

Mama and Aunt Phillips are just as opinionated but are more easily diverted than the formidable Lady Catherine DeBourgh.

Mariah intruded upon Elizabeth's thoughts with questions about Aunt and Uncle Gardiner's house, which forced Elizabeth out of her present frame of mind.

Smiling at the thought of her beloved cousins and their parents, Elizabeth acknowledged, "Yes, we will be staying but a few days with Jane before she joins us on our journey home to Meryton."

"I am in such anticipation to tell Jane of all our excitement, Lizzy. Are you not?"

"Yes, indeed," Elizabeth agreed with more enthusiasm than she felt. In truth, she would rather forget much of what had happened at Rosings, little of which she would remember with great affection.

Dinner at Gracechurch Street was less regal but more lively as Mariah prattled on about all she saw and did while at Hunsford with the children showing great excitement.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner noticed Elizabeth was more subdued though even she was not immune to her cousins' youthful enthusiasm. They asked all sorts of questions of what she and Miss Mariah did during their time spent in Kent, and of course, the horses!

Elizabeth found the humor in relating to Edmund, "I even had a hand in grooming one of them."

Jane as well as her aunt and uncle looked on in shock while the children giggled. Ellie squealed, "Oh, Cousin Lizzy! Was he as pretty as the one Edmond curried?"

"Pretty? Well, I hesitate in describing a horse in such a term, but after I finished, I can truly say his brown coast shone, the likes of which he had not seen in many a day!"

After the children had been put to bed, Aunt Gardiner asked Elizabeth quietly, "Thank you for amusing the children, especially the fantasy of your grooming a horse."

Avoiding her aunt's gaze, Elizabeth admitted, "I assure you, Aunt, it was no fiction."

"Lizzy, I am curious as to how you found yourself in such a situation."

Trying to make light of it, she smiled, saying, "It was...quite by accident...my own lack of good judgment caused my obligation to the task."

Aunt Gardiner patted her hand in reply, "That can not have been very comfortable for you."

"No, it was not," Elizabeth admitted, wishing Mr. Darcy had not been so adamant to have her fulfill her part in the wager.

Would he have relented had I demurred?

Of that she was certain before their meeting in Kent. With the change in him from that of the man she knew in London, Elizabeth was no longer so sure.

Sighing, she added to ease her Aunt's mind, "But as specified, the horse was very old and docile, much like Nellie, and the requirement to brush the neck and flank was...bearable while the groomsmen stood close by. Truly, Aunt, I was never in any danger."

"Keeping you safe from harm is one thing, Lizzy. Having you distressed from the ordeal is quite another. I do not understand why you allowed yourself to be put through that."

"Aunt, my own impertinence was my downfall, causing the gentleman's ire to make the suggestion."

"Why would a gentleman insist on an action if he knew your discomfort?"

"I doubt he truly knows, Aunt, else he would have chosen another task to fulfill our bargain." When Mrs. Gardiner stared at her niece, waiting for a further explanation, Elizabeth laughed, "I...lost a bet and that was the requirement mentioned that would satisfy Mr. Darcy-"

"Mr. Darcy made such a request? I find that most disturbing, Lizzy. I had thought him more sensitive to the feelings of others."

Elizabeth sighed, thinking the same, but wishing the conversation at an end, added, "Regardless, I endured the process, Aunt. The rest is of no consequence."

"And you are sure, you are well, Lizzy?"

"I am fine, Aunt, just a little tired from the journey is all. Truly, I am not worse off for having weathered the ordeal."

Though not entirely believing her niece, Mrs. Gardiner knew nothing of consequence would be gained by continuing the conversation. Hugging Elizabeth, she said resigned, "Then I wish you a good night."

When she and Jane were finally allowed to retire to the room and the bed they shared, Elizabeth could barely relate all that she had experienced and what were now her opinions, having thought them through all the way to London.

"You say Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam joined their Aunt while you were at Rosings? Was that not pleasant to renew their acquaintance?"

"Oh Jane, I fear the happy-go-lightly gentlemen we knew in London are no more. They have cut us off as easily as one snips the dead limbs of the old rose bushes that no longer serves a useful purpose. Their support of their Aunt who was all that was uncivil and rude seemed to be the telling of their changed attitude."

"You cannot say that Lady Catherine meant to be so cruel, Lizzy."

"I can and I do, dear Jane, and neither gentleman made any effort to countermand her attitudes or vitriolic declarations." She sighed. "Of course, Mr. Collins hung on her every word, so there was no hope for defense from that quarter. I was wont to think better of both the other two gentlemen, but no longer."

"Oh, Lizzy, you do not mean that."

Elizabeth shook her head, determined now to think meanly of them both. "Jane, no matter what Mariah tries to tell you of the grandeur and majesty of Rosings, I would brave even the likes of the superior sisters rather than be a moment more in Kent!"

Jane asked innocently, "You would rather be in company with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley?"

"I think even Miss Bingley's chaffing retorts would have been no match for the great Lady Catherine DeBough," adding, "No, Jane, I can truly say that I was never so happy to leave a place in my life as I was when the carriage departed Kent on the post road, bound for London and you, dear Jane."

"Well," Jane said, smiling as they both snuggled under the eider down counterpane, trying to not let her sadness show, "You must admit to not being bored as you would have been, had you stayed home."

To this Elizabeth giggled at her beloved sister, happy to be once more in her company as an aid to restoring her humor. "Yes," she agreed, "other emotions ran high, but ennui was not among them. You may be certain of that!"

They hugged. "I am so glad you are come, Lizzy."

"As am I, Jane."

"Goodnight, then. Pleasant dreams."

"Now that I am here with you, I am sure of it. Goodnight, Jane."

Chapter 37-One Prodigal Returns

Posted on 2010-12-03

The doldrums of summer were upon the village of Meryton and its surrounding area with the drought leaving few of its inhabitants with little enthusiasm for much of anything.

More resourceful youths found solace from the heat with frequent romps in the nearest water, initially to supplement the family meal only to end up with one or the other somehow landing in the pond, thus scaring away any fish that might be about for snaring.

The three youngest Bennets were relegated to remain indoors with the windows wide open hoping to catch even the gentlest cross breeze that made its way into the house at evening time that had been so fortunate for a parlor not facing full west.

Due to some logistical delay in ferrying supplies to their new encampment of Brighton, a small contingent of the militia remained still quartered in the area to give some entertaining conversation. Had it not been so Meryton would have been a very dull place indeed for many young ladies. Now with even those fine officers planning to remove to the more southerly sea port, life seemed destined to slowly return to normalcy in the region.

With both of his eldest daughters still in London with the Gardiners, Mr. Bennet had not heard a word of sense in weeks. Though his books and port gave him some relief even Longbourn's master wished for a bit of excitement to differentiate one day from the next. Little did he know that an errant ember was about to grant him his wish.

It was several days later when Sir William visited Longbourn to give Mr. Bennet the updated news in the aftermath of the minor fire that broke out at Netherfield. The excitement began the day before when in the kitchen attached to the back of the manor house on the first floor a smoldering ember went unnoticed to set items afire, soon to be out of hand. Word had been sent out at once to all the neighbors in the area and for what militia, fortuitously still quartered nearby, all of whom rallied in assisting the servants to dowse the growing flames.

Being summer when it was normally hot, the weather this year had also been unseasonably dry. Paramount in the minds of everyone in the area was the fear of a wayward wind easily spreading a small fire such as this to encompass much of the withered grasses and bush to move rapidly then to engulf the crops already suffering from the drought.

Sir William sat back in the chair opposite Mr. Bennet, sipping his port, remarking, "Fortunately, with all the aid, the significant damage had been confined to the one room only, but the smoke had been extensive throughout the house."

Mr. Bennet nodded as he refilled his own glass, wondering aloud, "I suppose it would necessitate a more lengthy renovation than the mere rebuilding of a kitchen?"

At Mr. Bennet's inquiry, Sir William nodded, admitting, "Netherfield's steward was required to send both the owner and as leaser, Mr. Bingley notification, asking how either wished to address the problem of restoration."

Silently both neighbors acknowledged that with this latest unfortunate event shouldered by the increasingly elderly owner of Netherfield, the steward would prefer the younger man's return to oversee the repairs, giving the former some relief of that responsibility. It would also likely give several ladies in the area renewed hope for their daughters over the lack of available gentlemen as a perspective grooms. For Jane's sake, Mr. Bennet did not look forward to the man's return as he had not bothered to send one word of explanation for his absence to the area other than the abbreviated note through his sister.

It was Lady Lucas, however, after speaking to her husband upon his return to Lucas Lodge to be apprised of such a probability, who hurriedly visited her nearest neighbors spreading the gossip. Thus, the rumor started that Mr. Bingley would definitely be along directly to deal with the reconstruction of Netherfield's kitchens. With the way gossip is taken as on the wind with more rapidity than the fire, the entire village was soon in a frenzy of anticipation without the slightest notion of exactly when or even if such an occurrence would take place. It seemed that many wished for a return of that amiable gentleman's company regardless of the cause for his extended absence.

Soon a carriage made its way up the sweep to Netherfield with, supposedly the much expected Mr. Bingley who, as the certified leaser of the property was authorized by the owner to make certain that the kitchen repairs were in keeping with that of a well-to-do gentleman required as well as to ensure that the spring plantings were growing in potential of the prospective yields even in a year of drought. Thus, the butler was more than surprised when the carriage door was opened, allowing egress to a personage that was not Mr. Bingley.

"Mr. Darcy, sir!"

"Fosset, good to see you again," Darcy replied simply as he handed his hat and coat to the manservant just inside the front door, adding without preamble, "Is Gilford about?"

Recovering his shock, Fosset nodded, motioning to follow him up the stairs to the first floor. "Yes, sir, he is still in his office I believe writing to the master about what has been accomplished by way of the kitchen repairs."

As they strode silently down the hallway toward the office of Netherfield's steward, Darcy finally took pity on the man's curiosity at not seeing Bingley alight from the carriage. "Your master has been unavoidably detained but, being that I was near enough by being in town, he wished for me to personally make him aware of how all was progressing. Thus, I am in his stead for the time being."

"But…he will be coming in due time, will he not, sir?"

Darcy replied indifferently, "Yes, as I said."

Remaining as unruffled as ever but with a tone of relief, Fosset replied, "Very good, sir. I will have your trunk put in one of the guest rooms-"

To this remark a surprised Darcy stopped their advance, saying, "I had not meant to impose on the staff already busy with renovations, Fosset. I can easily find lodging at the village inn."

"Oh no, sir!" Fosset insisted. "I had the men air out the downstairs rooms of smoke as soon as the fire was out, and the maids beat the carpets and tapestries as well as all the furniture. The upstairs guest quarters were not much affected but they too have been aired out." After a pause, Fosset added, "With the expected return of the master to oversee the restoration, and with his usual habit of being accompanied by his family, I saw that the entire wing was prepared, sir."

Listening to the usual reticent butler's lengthy recitation the sides of Darcy's mouth twitched. "You anticipated your master's need in order to make all in readiness for his return?"

"Why of course, sir," Fosset said in his normal voice but not without some amused expression in his eyes.

"Then I thank you for the hospitality and gratefully accept the accommodations, Fosset."

Fosset paused again before saying, "Without the kitchen yet functional, I can have Cook prepare simple meals for the time being."

Sure that at least some of the neighbors would offer invitations to dine from time to time as soon as they heard of Netherfield being occupied even for so short a period, Darcy maintained, "Tell Cook that whatever can be done without much bother is perfectly acceptable, Fosset."

"Very good, sir," came the automatic reply as he knocked and then opened the door to the study to announce Darcy to the steward before going about his other duties.

Sir William was, of course, the first to Netherfield inviting Darcy to dine at Lucas Lodge, which he readily accepted. David and Jonathan Lucas were seated on either side of their mother. Lady Lucas motioned Darcy into a chair at her husband's right while her youngest son, Benjamin sat beside her. Mariah, recently returned by her father from London, was flanked by her oldest brothers.

While having the servant pass him a platter, Lady Lucas spoke of both her daughters sharing the news of seeing Darcy at Rosings along with his cousin, the Colonel. At the mention of Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mariah blushed but remained silent to avoid more relentless teasing from her brothers at hers and Lydia's penchant for men in regimentals.

Darcy merely explained, "Our families have traditionally made the annual holiday, but for the past five years I have accompanied my cousin each year at Easter to review the books with my Aunt's steward and to assess any concerns by the tenants of Rosings."

"Most commendable," offered Sir William as he began the process of dinner. Thinking on a less desirable subject, the man's brow creased as he frowned before adding cautiously, "I have received several missives from my son-in-law, Mr. Collins, who seemed concerned over the behavior of his own cousin while she visited them at the parsonage."

Darcy's own brow furrowed in confusion at such a statement, and immediately defended Elizabeth to her neighbors. "My recollections are only of Miss Bennet's lively temperament, which both my cousins found diverting. If others in the party were not as amused it was nothing out of the ordinary from the lady in question, I assure you."

"Just as I thought," beamed Sir William, relieved that such news could be so easily refuted by one who was witness to Lizzy's exuberant personality.

With that, the subject was dropped in lieu of the more current issues at hand, which related to how the continuing repairs to Netherfield's kitchen were progressing and, more importantly, whether the leaser would soon himself be in residence to oversea its completion.

Darcy gave the only answer available to him at the time, that Mr. Bingley had some pressing family matter to deal with before he was at leisure to return to the area, but that he did intend to come eventually.

With that knowledge now permanently affixed in the minds of those at the table, Lady Lucas visibly sighed with relief. She, along with others in the neighborhood relied on Darcy's specific confirmation of Mr. Bingley's return instead of that of gossiping servants relaying the news.

Thinking he would be in more companionable surroundings when an invitation arrived from Mr. Goulding, Darcy was quick to accept in order to speak again to the man who was well known in the area for his splendid horseflesh. However, when he arrived, he found himself somewhat more disconcerted than he had been at Lucas Lodge without his more amiable friend to act as a buffer made more acute when he was introduced to the Gouldings' two nieces, now on their school holiday.

Bowing, Darcy felt his discomfiture mounting as he was motioned to the settee by Mrs. Goulding, only to have both Miss Hightowers sit on either side of him.

To his chagrin Miss Minerva and Miss Matilda Hightower, two otherwise very pretty young ladies with striking strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes, both sighed constantly in his direction, their competitive natures showing. Mrs. Goulding was of no help as she merely smiled at Darcy while asking one of her nieces to show him the samplers they had accomplished.

The elder Miss Hightower did so but not without again batting her eyelashes in such a way that he feared risking a view of the sampler lest the young lady lean so close as to be in his lap. It did nothing to ease his mind when the second Miss Hightower leaned in at his other side to inspect her sister's sampler and making a comment about the evenness of her stitching over that of her sister's.

Though older than the two youngest Miss Bennets whose lack of refinement was due from being without benefit of a seminary, Darcy found neither of the Miss Hightowers could recommend themselves to him in any manner that he would approve. To him they were no different than the husband hunting town ladies from which Darcy had long known to be leery.

Mr. Goulding drew his attention by talking of the excellent black stallion Darcy had brought to ride when he had his leisure. This conversation made Darcy feel less agitated but not at all at ease in company of predatory females on the hunt. With his absent friend who Darcy realized he relied upon for distracting unwanted attention, he wondered anew when Bingley would be returning to Netherfield.

Thankfully, the servant announced dinner and Darcy rose with some abruptness from between the two Miss Hightowers.

Darcy's fragile ease was not to last, however, when upon entering the dining parlor to commence the meal, Mrs. Goulding added her remarks of the previous topic with, "both my nieces are well versed in the equestrian arts, Mr. Darcy." Smiling as she added, "Their parents were diligent to all their education."

Darcy, of course, was conscious of the snub toward Mrs. Bennet who all in the neighborhood was aware had neglected that aspect of her own girls' upbringing, but he refused to baited into a discussion of either defending or accepting such a statement. He was grateful that he was seated opposite both ladies with the table between them, likewise grateful that the flower arrangement in the table's center allowed him a restricted view of their continued ogling of him.

Both the Miss Hightowers smiled at the previous complement by their aunt with the younger, Miss Matilda, finally having nerve enough to speak. "My riding instructor told me I had an excellent seat, Mr. Darcy. You are welcomed anytime to see it."

To this rather blatant invitation Darcy found himself quite speechless. His cheeks flushed as he raised his wine glass to his mouth to refrain from commenting.

Mr. Goulding easily turned the tension by declaring he had no ladies' mounts in his stable at present for his nieces to avail themselves. Darcy tried not to visibly sigh with relief at that news as the dinner continued with more inconsequential talk. Afterwards, Mr. Goulding took pity on him, separating from the ladies for a glass of port in his study where Darcy and he spoke of horseflesh and of anticipating Bingley's wish when he returned of purchasing one or two of the geldings in Mr. Goulding's stables. At their rejoining the ladies, and after the two Miss Hightowers exhibited on the pianoforte, Darcy managed little to make his leave. His many years of witnessing the machinations of the town mamas gave him excellent experience in avoidance of entanglements.

*I didn't do much research on fires during Regency times, but due to the fact that most buildings were made of wood, in a dry year it seems likely that such could occur.

Not long after his dining at Lucas Lodge Darcy was riding his stallion along one of the many paths that lay betwixt the two estates. Guiding his horse around the numerous tree roots now jutting in the way due to the drought, he had never seen the like even during previous years when rain was scarce.

So intent on keeping his mount from stumbling, Darcy was surprised to suddenly come upon one of Elizabeth's younger sisters lingering on a branch frequently used for a bench. Miss Mary was deep in thought, her nose in a book, quite oblivious to his presence.

Pulling the reins of his horse, he greeted her. "Good day, Miss Mary."

Startled, her head snapped up and her book fell to the ground as she stood. Dismounting, he wiped the grains of dirt from the cover, glancing at the title before handing it back to her with a bow along with an apology. "I had not meant to frighten you."

Shyly smiling, Mary accepted her Bible and curtseyed. "It was my own fault for being so engrossed that I had not noticed your approach, sir."

Intrigued, he asked, "What drew such rapt attention that you were unaware of all around you?"

A blush overspread her cheek as she admitted, "When Lizzy spoke of writing a sermon I told her of my disapproval of her attempting such. After she left, however, I was reading of the Savior's birth, wondering if I could glean similar insight into that time as she had."

Having already benefited from Elizabeth's reflections, Darcy mused on what her younger sister could add, impelling him to ask, "And did you?"

Silently motioning for permission to sit beside her and having her nod her approval, Mary explained, "I was trying to envision what it must have been like for Mary and Joseph in a strange town, not knowing a soul there and unable to find lodging."

"What were your reflections at such an occurrence?"

Mary frowned in self-righteous indignation. "At first I was quite put out at Joseph's inability to provide for his wife, especially when she was so great with child. One's husband should be able to give his wife more comfort than to be housed in a stable."

Refusing to believe that to be her only impression, Darcy wisely remained silent as Mary continued, "But then, I thought, if such a small town as Meryton were overrun with travelers as to have every room taken, should a poor couple arrive late in the evening, they might think even a soft bed of hay would be preferable to sleeping on the cold ground. Perhaps the innkeeper promised Joseph the first vacancy over others because of Mary's condition."

"Perhaps," Darcy replied, still keeping his own counsel to encourage this young lady's further thoughts as to the Lord's arrival into the world.

"I am not one to always be out of doors as is Lizzy, but when I do draw near enough a cow or horse, I notice that their breath is rather warm. When visiting Lady Lucas, she sometimes allows her little dogs upon the couch to cuddle beside us to give off a comfortable heat. Perhaps Joseph knew that being with the animals, he and his wife would be comfortably nuzzled through the night."

"You might be correct there," Darcy acknowledged.

"When her baby was born," Miss Mary reflected, "with all the noise coming from an overcrowded town, perhaps the doves came down from the rafters to coo the babe asleep."

Darcy's mouth twitched at the thought of the usually moralizing Miss Mary thinking on a scene of such quiet simplicity in light of so momentous a birth as the Son of God, and he merely replied, "That very well could have happened."

Then she asked the unanswerable, "I do not understand His arriving in such an unremarkable way. Why?"

"He wished to experience all that was of men," Darcy offered, "which meant to be born of woman, to grow and live among us until His time for teaching began."

She insisted, "But to be born in a stable among animals was not what He deserved. He was the King of kings!"

"To become man meant to be born a defenseless babe, is that not so?"

"Yes," Mary readily admitted.

"As such, would He not need to be tended to and nurtured until adulthood?"

Mary nodded, reflecting to the common sense of it, "So, if His birth were made too public, perhaps His enemies would find Him out before His time came to redeem us?"

"Yes, perhaps so," Darcy smiled at her wit. "However, there were some who knew of His birth as announced by the angels, and there were the three wise men who studied the sky to follow the star to where He lay."

"But the shepherds were a lowly lot," Mary contended. "Who would believe some fantastical tale they told of angels in the sky?"

Darcy chuckled, both of them thinking that many who heard such a story would wonder if the shepherds had imbibed too heady a quaff.

"As to those wise men, they had inadvertently given Herod news of Jesus' birth to force Joseph to flee with his family into Egypt. I wonder just how wise they were!"

His eyebrows rising, Darcy stifled another chuckle. "They did seemed naïve that His birth would not be perceived as a threat to the current Jewish king."

Mary concluded, "Since they were sent to be witness to the Savior's birth, giving Him such important gifts as symbols for what was to come, the Almighty must have planned all along to keep His Son safe from the evil king, Do you think that so?"

Darcy merely nodded allowing her to continue with her next thought.

"Just as He also planned for our safe return to Him through the sacrifice of the Savior for our sins," she said shaking her head. "Do we need to worry as much as some preachers say, Mr. Darcy?"

"Not overly so when the Almighty has us in His hands."

Mary then spoke with conviction, "But we do need to retell the story of the Savior's birth that those who come after us will know of Him."

"Yes, as we are able," Darcy concluded. After a companionable silence he rose. Taking up the reins of his mount, he asked, "Do you wish me to escort you back to Longbourn?"

Shaking her head, Mary demurred, "I thank you, no." Caressing the cover of her Bible, she added, "I think I will reflect on several other passages to prepare for other such discussions. Perhaps in future Lizzy may join us."

At the thought of debating with that particular Miss Bennet, Darcy dazzled Mary with a rare dimpled smile, owning, "I look forward to it." Touching the brim of his hat and bowing, Darcy stepped into the stirrup to gain his seat on the stallion, leaving her with, "Until then, I bid you good day, Miss Mary."

Nearly overwhelmed by such a sight as Mr. Darcy beaming, Mary quite forgot her manners to rise and curtsey. Instead, remaining on the log bench, she managed only, "I thank you, sir."

She watched him disappear around a bend before closing her surprised mouth to swallow, actually anticipating when next they would meet.

Chapter 38- A surfeit of Meryton society

Posted on 2010-12-13

Darcy had ridden into the village, hoping to find a few incidentals for the short time he remained at Netherfield instead of having his valet run the errand. It also gave him time to exercise Hermes, his new stallion, who he had worked into a lather from jumping several of the hedges in the meadows between Netherfield and the village. Stopping by the livery to ask the proprietor have his stable boy walk him before watering, Darcy strode down the boardwalk toward the shops in the center of Meryton.

Seeing the name Murphy's Mercantile & Emporium reminded him of Mr. Gardiner's warehouse with all its various and sundry items, piquing his curiosity enough to stop in. Upon entering, he was assailed by row upon row of tables laden with every possible assortment of goods. The central counter was arrayed with fine canisters of candied sweetmeats as well as every possible hue of hard candies, all reflected in ornate glass jars for easy viewing of youngsters.

At first the dishevel nature of the display was off putting to Darcy who was more accustom to the neat single item shops of London. Thinking he would never find any of the items he wished, he nevertheless ventured forth further into Murphy's Emporium. Once inside with the double doors closing behind him to have his eyes adjusted from the bright sunlight, he was accosted anew by the variety of items crammed in the tiny store.

Upon closer inspection, Darcy realized that there was a kind of symmetry to how the proprietor organized his wares, allowing for those prospective buyers to wander down the various aisles that were of interest to them while also viewing the other items for sale on other sections of the store. Thus assured of finding whatever he needed, Darcy felt confident he could secure a few gifts for Georgiana upon his return to London.

There were assortments of various dry goods, glass cases of dishes and breakables, shelves of various household goods, and a wall stacked to the ceiling with bolts of cloth, which were mostly muslin in various qualities but in a rainbow of colors. At the end of the narrow aisle there were even a few shelves upon which were books to draw Darcy's attention. Leafing through the limited titles, he decided on several to add to Bingley's meager library. He made his selections before moving on to the menagerie of ribbons, lace and beaded reticules comparing this establishment to that of his friend's relations' one.

Truly, this is a smaller version of Mr. Gardiner's warehouse.

Darcy wondered if this all inclusive store where one could supply what everyone needed under one roof would ever be the norm in a few years rather than the current specialty shops as in London and other towns.

After making his purchases and asking Mr. Murphy to have them delivered to Netherfield, Darcy made his way again into the bright sunshine. Squinting, he very nearly collided with none other than Mr. Goulding.

"I beg your pardon, sir."

"No harm done, young man. Why, Mr. Darcy! I had not expected to see you in the village and afoot when you have such a fine piece of horseflesh upon which to ride."

Darcy smiled. "Hermes is at the livery where I left him with the groom to cool off after our morning exercise. Would you care to join me collecting him?"

Mr. Goulding nodded, saying, "As I have already shown you my interest in the animal, it would only seem fair that I finally meet him."

Motioning for Mr. Goulding, together they ventured over to the carriage inn along side the livery, stopping for some refreshments while speaking of the furthering refurbishment of Netherfield's kitchen and of whether Mr. Bingley would be bringing his own very fine stallion when he arrived. Darcy said he hoped it were so in order that they would be able to ride out together.

Darcy was much at ease with the elderly gentleman, one whom Darcy could abide for some duration when not in company with his wife or nieces, all of whom had a way of clinging to his arm. Mr. Goulding was an amiable personage seemingly oblivious to the intentions of the females in his family.

Upon finishing their libation and retrieving his now well rested mount, the two men walked the animal down the street, still in conversation about an enterprise for which Mr. Goulding had an interest. He was asking Darcy whether he thought it sound when both were distracted by loud giggling coming from a group of young ladies flanked by several officers in Colonel Forster's command. Recognizing the younger Bennet sisters and Mr. Goulding seeing his nieces among them with their friend Mary King, the two men neared the gathering. Having already spoken to several of the young men at previous meetings each greeted the two. But when a tall, dark haired officer turned round, Darcy came face to face with his former childhood friend, neither particularly sanguine to talking to the other.

Darcy and Mr. Goulding bowed, "Ladies, good day to you."

"Darcy," a surprised Wickham managed to say.

"Wickham," was all Darcy would reply though not without a look of pure venom.

Recovering, the Lieutenant then asked the first thing that came to mind, "What brings you back to Meryton?"

"The repairs to Netherfield," Darcy explained to the group, gaining their eyes instead of Wickham's.

Denny straightened his posture proudly, saying, "The militia helped quell the fire. Had we not, with this weather it might have grown to engulf the entire house." He neglected to mention that, having been away currying messages from Colonel Forster to the commander in Brighton, he personally had nothing whatsoever to do with his militia's involvement in the rescue.

"For which Mr. Bingley as leaser as well as the owner are grateful, I am sure," Mr. Goulding acknowledged.

An awkward silence ensued causing the shallow Lydia to pout, "Well, but for the fire, I'm sure Mr. Bingley would not have soon returned. When he does, however, I think he should give a ball in honor of the officers who helped save his house."

All the men gazed blankly at her without knowing how to respond to such an indecorous statement that ignored the contributions of all her other neighbors who helped quell the fire. Surely she would not wish to negate their contribution to the effort.

They were saved the trouble with Captain Carter's approach to address. Noting the tension in the group, it was a relief when he voiced his greeting, "Gentlemen and ladies." Turning to those under his command, he added, "much as I hate to take you from such pleasant company, Colonel Forster has ordered our supervision over the dismantling of the encampment."

There were several "Aye, sirs" as the officers took their leave of the ladies with bows before departing. The last to leave was Wickham who kissed Miss King's hand with a smile. Turning to give Darcy a veiled smirk, he hurried off to join his fellow officers.

After seeing his men off Captain Carter turned his eyes to Darcy, silently making him aware of the disgruntled accusations spoken of by the last of his lieutenants to depart. Having gotten to know the man over these passed weeks Carter began to suspect its veracity.

"Good day to you ladies," and bowing particularly to Darcy, he added, "and sirs," before he took his leave of the group.

Touching the brim of their hats, both gentlemen turned their attentions to the ladies. Seeing that they were now without escorts Darcy offered to accompany Mary, Kitty and Lydia home while Mr. Goulding did the same for the other three ladies, offering his carriage for their use.

Soon the six said their good-byes and separated into threes. Darcy silently walked his stallion along side Miss Mary as they made their way to Longbourn. The other two seemed to ignore his presence, beginning a conversation that surprised Darcy exceedingly as it flowed.

Lydia was the first to voice, "I am quite put out at the news of Mary King."

Kitty agreed, offering her opinion, "It is so fortunate for her to have inherited so large a dowry."

Lydia snorted, "Well, I amjealous that she had an old rich aunt to die and leave it to her! It is beyond me why such a freckled little thing should inherit 10,000 pounds from some maiden aunt who had no one else to leave an inheritance while we have hardly any."

Mary sermonized, "Rev. Fordyce gives us warning not to be covetous of what others have been bestowed. The Bible states it as a most grievous moral lapse."

Both younger sisters ignored this advice with Lydia mumbling, "Good Lord," and Kitty lamenting, "Still, I wish some maiden aunt would die and leave me such a sum."

Darcy ventured, "I dare say when her family got notice of the amount they were worried for her."

Kitty noticed the frown formed on his face. "Mr. Darcy, you think it to be the only reason for anyone wanting to marry Miss King? The world is not so very bleak as that, surely!"

At this Lydia snorted, "It would be the only time anyone paid her mind, I would say."

"That was unkind, Lydia," admonished Mary.

Darcy observed the naïve expression on their elder sister's face. Not wishing to strip her of such innocence, he did, however, wish to put her on her guard as to the avarice of some of his gender. "It is fortunate that she is engaged, else her family should be concerned."

Wondering if there were any truth to Lydia's remark, Darcy then asked, "Who has shown Miss King a marked interest where there was none before the news of her inheritance became public?"

"Well, several of the officers, of course, along with the two elder sons of Sir Lucas."

Kitty added, "But it was Mr. Wickham who made her an offer that she accepted."

At this Lydia groaned, "Oh he cannot truly be attached to someone without other charms to make her liked by all the officers!"

At the mention of Wickham, Darcy became disturbed as Lydia's words rang truer than even she realized. "Is Miss King's family satisfied with such a proposal?"

Kitty replied, "She did not make mention of any unhappiness, though after talking to her she remarked that her uncle from Liverpool has come, and now wishes for her to return with him for a visit. They are to depart at the end of the week."

Darcy merely nodded, thinking Miss King would soon be safe from the clutches of Wickham and his attempt to abscond with her dowry. Still, he wondered if he should say anything to Bingley's other neighbors about Wickham's character.

With so many ladies in the village prone to a favorable impression over a rake in uniform…

Before he had decided if he should act on their behalf, the path to Longbourn appeared where he would to take his leave of Elizabeth's younger sisters.

"We thank you for the safe escort, sir," Mary offered with a curtsey before turning into Longbourn's sweep.

Kitty made a sudden realization, "But you have not yet come to supper while you have been at Netherfield, Mr. Darcy." Giggling, she added, "I am sure Papa would enjoy another gentleman's company with Lizzy and Jane still away."

His curiosity already piqued from his supper with the Lucas's where Mariah had made mention of this, Darcy asked, "They remain still at your our aunt and uncle's in London?"

Kitty nodded with Lydia elaborating, "Our cousins have come down with the measles, inflicting the entire household, including several of the servants who had never been exposed. La! What a joke!"

Her sister explained, "Lizzy and Jane offered to stay to aid our Aunt while the little ones recuperate. Little Ellie seemed to have the worst case."

Darcy became concerned at this news. "But she is recovering, you say?"

Kitty assured him, "Oh yes, but-"

Lydia finished, "being completely covered she is now quite miserable with all the itching. Jane and Lizzy have to bathe her in oatmeal and," adding while making a face, "dab awful smelling lotion on her sores to keep her from scratching them. Ugh! Better them than me!"

Without further concerns for her young cousins, Lydia turned after a flouncing courtesy to follow Mary down the drive.

Kitty sighed, thinking a similar sentiment of being glad it was her older sisters playing nurse maid to all her young cousins instead of being obligated to tend them through their illness.

Realizing Mr. Darcy's stare, she blushed with guilt, offering her excuse, "Being their favorites, it eases the children to have Jane and Lizzy with them I think. Our Aunt has sent a letter thanking Papa for allowing them to delay their return home." With her cheeks deepening further to crimson, she admitted, "She called them a Godsend." Giggling, she remarked, "I suppose Mr. Bingley is correct when he spoke of Jane as an angel." She then sighed, adding, "But Mama was not so pleased with the delay. She wishes Jane home, especially should Mr. Bingley return to Netherfield in the foreseeable future?"

At this Darcy could only nod his understanding at their mother's eagerness with such a declaration and assured Kitty that the man would return anon.

Kitty then curtseyed as she, too made to depart. "What shall I tell Papa of dinner?"

"Say, if it pleases him, I am at my leisure to accept so kind an invitation." With a bow Darcy mounted his horse and turned into the lane leading toward Netherfield Park, still concerned over the Gardiner children, especially the littlest one.

Later that afternoon upon receiving a note to confirm the invitation to dine at Longbourn Saturday next if he was available, Darcy sent his return reply in the affirmative, thinking the evening would be less tedious had the two elder Misses Bennet been returned to Longbourn.

He smiled as a nagging thought made its way into his conscious mind of actually missing the wagers and adversarial encounters between his competitive acquaintance, hoping they would be able to resume their more friendly conversations and wagers upon her eventual return home.

Chapter 39 - For those who tend

Posted on 2010-12-20

With Jane and Elizabeth remaining at the Gardiners helping their aunt tend to the children during their illness, keeping them occupied with word games and stories when the children weren't napping, neither sister had much time for idleness. However, in moments without occupation the entire household wondered silently at the continued absence of the gentlemen from Netherfield.

Little Ellie, during her worst spells due to all her pox, asked about 'Misser Bingby' while James, remembering how tall he felt himself when Darcy lifted him up to carry him about on his shoulders, requiring James hold onto the man's ears to keeping from falling, asked, "When is Mr. Darcy to return?" He was to be dissatisfied at a noncommittal answer by his mother of, "I am really not sure, James."

With such acceptance by her young cousins of the men due to their amiable behavior, Elizabeth was given to reflection as regards Mr. Darcy, especially upon receipt of her one and only letter from Anne shortly upon arriving in London. It was filled with the droll goings on at Rosings after her departure. "…It seems the demeanor of my two older cousins has become less cheerful of late due, I surmise, from the lack of company of a certain young lady from Hertfordshire. .."

Remembering the conversation she overheard in the grove, however, Elizabeth was equally sure that Anne must be quite mistaken as to the reason for their pronounced solemnity.

Upon answering Anne's letter and waiting sufficient time without a reply led Elizabeth to believe that, like her younger cousin Georgiana, Anne had decided that corresponding with Elizabeth was not as satisfactory am endeavor as she had imagined and therefore was of a mind to desist.

Oh, well, sighed Elizabeth, trying not to feel missishly put out by the loss.

Their routine at the Gardiners was set during the weeks that followed with Elizabeth's little cousins improvement coinciding with them begging their mother to be let outside the nursery, but having to settle with Elizabeth agreeing to tell them a story while they remained abed before needing naps. She willingly obliged them, tucking each in afterwards with kisses and hugs until the nursery maid entered with news that the post had come with a letter for her.

After thanking the maid, Elizabeth joined her aunt and sister in the parlor to retrieve her letter. Seeing it to be a missive from Charlotte Elizabeth cried, "At last! At least I still have one friend who corresponds!"

Joining Jane upon the settee with their Aunt Gardiner in a chair by the fire, she gazed again at Charlotte's neat writing, again reminded of the lack of communications from her other acquaintances, and beginning to think ill of the entire Fitzwilliam family for their snub of her.

Both Mrs. Gardiner and Jane sensed her disappointment. Without looking up from her sewing, Jane voiced, "Lizzy, you must allow for differing temperaments and circumstances. Perhaps Miss DeBourgh is feeling poorly these past weeks. You did mention of her being frail," and looking up to see Elizabeth's skepticism, offered, "or there might be some other reason for her lack of response."

"Yes, of course there is," Elizabeth agreed sarcastically, knowing Jane would think good of everyone regardless or not of their deserving it. Elizabeth could not help voicing her own opinion. "Anne realized my correspondence did her no service. Therefore she has no longer any use for me."

Her Aunt Gardiner gasped, chiding gently, "Lizzy, we all know the difference in our relative stations in life that might suspend any pleasure that a young lady would have in conversing with another witty, intelligent miss whose income and connections are nothing in comparison."

Jane added her own admonishment with, "That was unkind, Lizzy, and without merit since you have nothing by way of proof for such an accusation besides your own disappointment." Putting forth an alternative suggestion, she added with a smile, "Perhaps Charlotte's letter will reveal some explanation of Miss DeBourgh's lack of correspondence?"

Elizabeth rolled her eyes but giggled, nodding her agreement with her well deserved chastisement of her Aunt's and Jane's assessment. Upon opening the sealed note, another in Anne's hand dropped from within, which Aunt Gardiner retrieved from the floor, a raised eyebrow her only rebuke. Elizabeth had the good sense to blush with embarrassment.

Intrigued, Elizabeth began by first reading her friend's letter.

Dearest Lizzy, the enclosed note is from Anne who asked that I include it in my own missive to you. It seems Lady Catherine quickly became aware of your communications with her daughter and took umbrage at Anne's continuing the association. I give you leave to imagine the words she used in her refusal of any further correspondence as well as those of Mr. Collins, who naturally agreed with his own compliance to Lady Catherine in his most strident terms.

Jane saw how Elizabeth's cheeks reddened with indignation as she continued to read.

…One morning when Mr. Collins was away from the parsonage Anne rode down the lane in her phaeton to visit. She remained only long enough to hand me her note, asking if I would kindly forward it to you. Neither of us feels this subterfuge will long continue without discovery, but being bound by my friendship to you and now Anne, I was obliged to help at the time. If Mr. Collins ever finds out, he would surely inform Lady Catherine, who would, no doubt bring down her wrath upon us all. Still, for Anne's sake as well as yours, I will do what I can.

With Charlotte's avowal to try to include any additional missives from Anne without knowing how many could avoid Lady Catherine's notice, Elizabeth was reminded of Jane's recent admonishing words, and had wit enough to acknowledge there indeed being a very good reason for the lack of correspondence from Anne. In truth, Elizabeth's opinion grew warmer for the young lady, courageous enough to try responding surreptitiously behind the back of her tyrannical mother. It also saddened her to realize that regular correspondence from Anne were not be in her foreseeable future.

Opening Anne's letter, Elizabeth smiled, experiencing again the dry wit and droll humor much like her father's.

I wonder if Papa and Miss DeBough would find much in common with their similar perception of society?

Thinking such a meeting as being highly unlikely, Elizabeth drew her eyes back to the remainder of Anne's missive at the mention of her own cousins' departure soon after Elizabeth. Anne's perception of the happenings around her lifted Elizabeth's spirits after weeks of worrying over the health of all her dear little cousins.

…having found the estate business sufficiently completed and the remaining society lacking a certain charm. Of course, Mother attempted to keep them with us, but Richard owned that he had to return to his regiment, and Darcy found through his own correspondence some business that required his return to town before venturing onward to Derbyshire and Pemberley…

At the end, Anne said she still diligently practiced at the pianoforte though her mother discouraged her. She spoke of hoping to send another letter and of her being determined to write to Georgiana to relate any news from that side of her family. Elizabeth was certain, however, that a missive from either would be long overdue, if they came at all. Elizabeth sighed in resignation.

No, I think it more likely that this is the last news I will hear of any of them for a very long time.

So it was with some astonishment that the following day the three ladies found themselves at leisure when Elizabeth received a letter from Mariah Lucas, firstly sending her thanks to the Gardiners for their hospitality, and secondly, to inform Elizabeth and Jane that Netherfield was occupied once more.

A letter from Kitty to Jane confirmed this fact as well as to repeat the tale of the fire that had engulfed part of Netherfield's manor house. She concluded with additional news. …Mr. Darcy is the first to return in order to oversee the reconstruction of the kitchens and has been to dine with several of the neighboring families. We are to have him over for Saturday dinner and Mama is sure to inquire after Mr. Bingley, although when he walked us home from Meryton the other day, all Mr. Darcy would say of him was that Mr. Bingley did intend to return some time in the near future …

With Jane's pause Elizabeth gazed at her sister's blushing cheeks at the mere mention of the gentleman.

"Jane, are you well?"

Smiling serenely at her concern, Jane nodded, saying only, "Lizzy, I am sure when Mr. Bingley does return, he will have a suitable explanation for his absence." She added with a sigh, "And if he does not return, I will not repine, Lizzy. He will be forgot and I shall be as I ever was…though perhaps a little wiser." Trying to assure Elizabeth before she began to protest, Jane declared, "Now," rising to have the discussion at an end. "I will go see how our cousins are faring while you help our Aunt with the sewing."

Noticing Jane's resigned determination towards the return of the tenant of Netherfield Elizabeth chose to say nothing more on the subject nor did she grimace at Jane absent-mindedly giving over to her the chore of hemming clothing for the poor before quitting the room.

Elizabeth did, however, wondered anew at the possibility of Mr. Darcy's complicity in some scheme to keep his friend away. Regardless of his being highly esteemed by others in the Gardiner house, she seemed determined to think ill of him until he could convince her of his innocence.

Mrs. Gardiner could sense Elizabeth's protective nature towards Jane's feelings for the younger gentleman along with her growing ire that Mr. Darcy had a part in Mr. Bingley's absence.

"You should be careful in pronouncing judgment on a person without proof, Lizzy. Both gentlemen are in a society much removed from our sphere where perhaps circumstances unfathomable to you have kept them quite busy over winter." She gently removed the sewing from Elizabeth's lap with a smirk.

Placing her cup on the table, Elizabeth reflected on this gentle explanation. "You feel I am being prejudicial, Aunt, but when I remember the conversation between Mr. Darcy and his cousin at Kent where they blatantly spoke of their distrust of me as a confidante after all our seeming friendship garnered while in Hertfordshire, I-"

"He has injured your vanity, Lizzy, and you are too stubborn to think that there could have been a legitimate reason for not informing you of whatever they were speaking." With a gentle voice carried on a smile as she looked at Charlotte's and Anne's letters, she added, "and as you are well aware, Lizzy, it is never good to base the loss of a friendship merely on some perceived misconception, especially when you are uncertain if there was any harm intended."

Elizabeth nodded with a return smile, admitting, "I was hurt by his distrust of me, Aunt. I had thought we had a better understanding of a friendship implied than he did, obviously." Frowning, she continued, "but what am I to do when next we meet? What can I say that will not come out sounding petulant when he has no knowledge that I overheard his conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam? How am I to act when he and I are in the same room?"

Mrs. Gardiner hugged her niece, smiling. "Do what you always do, Lizzy. Try to put yourself at ease by thinking of the absurdity of the situation. Surely, you have learnt enough at your father's knee to see the humor in such human folly that comes from eavesdropping on partial conversations. The older I grow, the more I find that having a good sense of humor can ease many of life's tensions to help have things work out for the best."

Elizabeth hugged her Aunt in return. "You are very wise, Aunt. I will try to do what you suggest when next I meet Mr. Darcy."

However, Elizabeth knew that declared intentions were not so easily put in force when scenes imagined became reality.

Elizabeth completely filled her days with activities of one sort or another. She enjoyed spending time with her four younger cousins who eagerly wished to attend the park each day with their nanny but had to suffice with games and storytelling indoors during their continued recovery. She enlisted Jane to attend their tea party and she spent hours making ups stories of lizards and snakes for the boys, leaving her with no time to sit around idly and dwell on the past.

It was only at night, when the warm embrace of sleep always managed to elude her that she allowed herself to think of Darcy. As disenchanted as she felt during those moments, she knew she would never forget him. He had wounded her deeply and she meant for him to know just how much.

Though Elizabeth was not formed for ill-humor, she was determined to persevere with her dislike of him. Likewise, she did not intend to suffer his absence.

"It is hard to say. I could more easily forgive him for his thoughtlessness and his pride had he not wounded my sensibilities so wretchedly during my sojourn at Hunsford. As it stands, it is his family's abominable pride that will likely hamper any further association…"

Jane, upon hearing what plagued her mind, asked, "Lizzy, I know you are determined to continue your friendship with Anne, especially if she succeeds in defying her mother's edicts and by extension Miss Georgiana. How shall you react when you see Mr. Darcy? You are aware it is only a matter of time. Are you to be friends or indifferent acquaintances?"

"I am sure that whatever we are to become, it could never be described as indifferent. I imagine that I will simply tolerate him as best I can for everyone's sake, putting forth some effort to be civil toward him but I shall never again truly esteem Mr. Darcy as a friend without strong evidence of his contrition and willingness to amend his arrogant and selfish ways."

Chapter 40 - Darcy dining at Longbourn

Having agreed to dine at Longbourn, Darcy arrived promptly at half past seven. Mrs. Hill smiled as she allowed him entrance, leading him into the spacious parlor where all the Bennet family had assembled. The housekeeper announced their visitor as everyone rose to curtsey, putting their employments aside.

Darcy gazed at the gathering as he bowed. Mary still had her place marked in her book while Kitty held the embroidery she had yet the chance to give her full attention to in many days. Lydia's face still displayed displeasure from her struggles with refashioning a bonnet, unsure if she should expect any amusement from the usually reserved Mr. Darcy for the evening. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bennet merely gazed upon Darcy with their own anticipations at his arrival.

Mrs. Bennet's shrill greeting soon brought him out of his reverie. "Oh Mr. Darcy! How good of you to come!" She continued her assault with, "We have been frightfully worried over Mr. Bingley's continued absence, but now you are come you must tell us all about it!"

"Good evening to you, Madam," Darcy said as politely as he was able while he took the offered seat. "I am afraid I am not at liberty to say what has kept Bingley from his return, but that it was of some great import to keep him away for so lengthy an absence." When he saw all their anxious faces bordering on certain disappointment from so scant an explanation, he added, "However, I can assure you that he does intend to return at some point in the future."

Pausing to allow them to know that nothing more was forthcoming of his friend's absence, Mrs. Bennett tutted, "Of course, there must have been something vastly important to keep him from his home, but what could it possibly have been to delay the poor man?" When Darcy refused to reply she waved her handkerchief dismissively. "Well, so long as Mr. Bingley does mean to return to us, I suppose that is the material point."

Mr. Bennet, undeterred by his spouse' lack of exuberance for the current gentleman's presence, added his own amused comment before the servant announced that dinner was ready.

Taking his wife's arm and directing her and his youngest toward the dining parlor, he said, "Shall we, my dear?" Turning to Darcy, he added, "Mrs. Bennet assured me that our cook made a special effort on your behalf, Mr. Darcy, seeing that there is an absence at Netherfield to adequately perform for such discerning tastes as a gentleman of your stature."

Suspecting that Mrs. Bennet had likely done no such thing for his sake, Darcy nonetheless chose diplomacy. As he turned to escort Kitty and Mary with Lydia following into the dining parlor, he managed, "I am certain to find agreeable whatever is served."

During the first course Darcy broached what seemed a neutral topic by inquiring after Kitty's latest attempts at sketching, and what subject she found to her liking.

"I enjoy all subject mater, sir, but with the abundance of flora outside during the warm months, I have grown partial to landscapes of late."

"My own sister has similar interests when the weather permits. Perhaps I could view some of your attempts to make comparison?"

Before Kitty could reply further on her latest drawings, Mrs. Bennet admonished her with a warning, "You would do better with an embroidery needle than going around with blackened fingers from the charcoal pencil else you would never attract a husband." She pointedly stared at Mr. Darcy.

"Mama!" Kitty's cheek glowed crimson as she dropped her eyes to her plate, not daring to raise them, especially with Lydia's giggling snorts in her napkin. Mr. Bennet said something amusingly droll rather than comforting, which did nothing to diminish the embarrassment felt by Kitty.

Darcy slowly simmered at the man's quick dismissal of his wife's and youngest daughter's gauche behavior. Never would he allow such comportment to go unchecked at his table. Being merely a guest, however, he chose to remain silent on the matter.

The meal continued unabated with Lydia quickly changing to topic to comment on the upcoming Assembly, adding, "And I intend to dance every dance with all the officers before they all depart the area. Then, my heart will be broken." She ended her speech with an affected sigh.

Mary began to sermonize to her youngest sister of the need in occupying her mind with other pursuits, such a lecture garnering Lydia's sticking out her tongue as soon as her elder sister turned her head. This was followed by smiling at her other sister nearest her age.

Darcy silently observed that this blend of confrontational yet childish display toward an elder sister did have the desired effect in giving the recently despondent Kitty cause to giggle, thus allowing Darcy some insight into the dynamic of a large family's relationships that seemed always in flux. Raising his eyebrow in Mary's direction, she merely smiled, shaking her head with in knowledge of what had transpired. Their exchanged was noted by Mrs. Bennet.

After dinner Mrs. Bennet commanded Mary to the pianoforte as entertainment for them, requesting Darcy assist by turning pages while the others settled in chairs and on settees. Unable to refuse such a request, Darcy sat diligently beside the bench, doing his duty.

After the first etude, the group clapped politely before reverting to talking among themselves as Mary attempted to find another suitable piece. Darcy thought to comment on its execution played by an obviously discouraged Mary, remarking, "That was also one of my sister's favorites."

"Indeed? Lizzy sent it to me from London, but I knew not from where she had obtained her copy."

Leafing through the previous page, she added disconcertedly, "You must have noticed how I fudged my way through the middle passage. I try to comply with the finger placement suggested by our former music teacher, but have not the flexibility sufficient to execute the notes with the precision as do others." She sighed in disapproval at her own lack of accomplishment.

Darcy leaned in to not have his reply overheard, "As my own dear sister has often confessed, the parts that give her the greatest trouble are ofttimes the ones she enjoys the most when she finally masters them."

With a shake of her head, Mary replied, "I doubt I will ever master that particular section. Even Lizzy with her much smaller hands seems able to read the notes so far in advance that she almost anticipates the finger placement and can therefore appreciate the music as I never can. I am rather a slave to the notes instead of the emotions evoked by the music as a whole, and so am not as prepared for the upcoming sections."

Darcy could not but agree with such a statement as he had notices that both of their sisters were more adept in their interpretation of any opus than were many others he had heard attempt them, which stemmed, he surmised in agreement with Mary, from their ability to read with greater efficiency.

Still, he wished to encourage Mary, and so said, "You enjoy this instrument with the elation it brings you in your playing, as well as to those who hear you. With sufficient time and practice, you can accomplish any piece of music to allow that elation to shine through with your attempt."

Mary finally accepted his complimentary support. "That sounds very much like something Lizzy would say. "Enjoy the process! The mastery of a passage will be all the sweeter for the trying."

Having heard the same from Anne, Darcy chuckled, admitting, "My cousin at Rosings, who is but a few years my junior, has just begun to take up the instrument. She likewise feels the same frustrations you express. Your sister gave her a similar speech to encourage her not to give up."

"Really? Miss DeBourgh never learned to play when younger, and has only now taken up the pianoforte? Whatever put her in mind to begin at such a late date?"

"I believe it was after hearing Miss Elizabeth play, if not with perfect proficiency, at least with an enjoyment of the music, which Anne found inviting. I believe your sister's pleasant personality could also have initiated such a response."

"Yes," Mary agreed with a smile. "Whenever Lizzy takes her turn during gatherings, there is an attraction that flows from her own delight in the endeavor, regardless if the notes are perfectly executed."

"That same pleasure comes in time for everyone, though it might take a greater effort to accomplish it for some." Leaning in, Darcy added conspiratorially, "We all have different gifts, Miss Mary, but with tenacity anything is possible."

"Then I shall persevere, sir," she promised.

"And enjoy the process," he added as he rose from the seat beside her. As the refreshments arrived, he accepted a cup of coffee offered by Kitty from the serving tray.

Kitty smiled, acknowledging, "Thank you for encouraging Mary with her endeavors, sir, although sometimes many would rather she not be so diligent." Blushing, she added, "Her practicing can be a little off putting at times."

Raising his brow, Darcy sipped his coffee before saying, "However, practicing is essential to improvement, as any artists is well aware."

To this Kitty could not but nod in agreement, specifically as it pertained to her, but before she could comment Lydia demanded that Mary play a lively jig to offset the previous dour concerto.

Afterwards, Mr. Bennet offered Darcy a reprieve into his bookroom where they discussed several new editions acquired by Mr. Bennet from his brother Gardiner's warehouse. This led to Darcy's inquiring about the Gardiner children and receiving additional news of their progressive recovery from their illness. Mr. Bennet was in eager anticipation of the return of his eldest two daughters by the end of the following week.

Darcy had planned to quit Netherfield as soon as Bingley arrived, but decided to delay his own departure until the return of the eldest Miss Bennets to give himself the chance to talk with Elizabeth. Remembering her cool civility at Rosings toward the end of her visit at Hunsford but without knowledge as to the cause, he was hopeful that soon they could speak of it.

His brow furrowed, wondering, if she would allow such an intercourse before he left the area for good.

Not long afterwards Darcy made his leave with a renewal of the promise to Mrs. Bennet that Bingley would soon arrive in the area. Though Mrs. Bennet was not completely satisfied with the still non-answer to her query as to the cause of Mr. Bingley's absence, she was of a mind to tell her sister Phillips that Mr. Darcy was not as bad as she the gossip from the town made him out, especially if he now had an eye on Mary.

Chapter 41-The Anticipated Prodigal Arrives at last

Posted on 2010-12-26

Some weeks later the carriage bringing Bingley's trunks along with several more servants came down the lane and into Meryton proper on its way to the sweep of Netherfield. The man himself followed on horseback. Riding on his dapple grey stallion to join Darcy, it was apparent that his family had been detained for some reason or other.

Tipping his hat to acknowledge the gawking villagers, Bingley made his way through the lane without stopping, knowing that the news of his return would spread swiftly by the gossips to have everyone soon enlightened.

Arriving at the stables, Bingley dismounted with a smile at seeing Darcy's big black horse. Tired as he was from all he had dealt with, he was glad his friend had remained until his return. Handing the reins to one of the young grooms, Bingley said, "I also have brought the carriage horses to be settled in after the trunks have been removed."

"We'll take care of 'em too, sir."

"That's a good lad," Bingley greeted him with a pat to the boy's shoulder and a toss of a coin.

"Thank you, sir," the boy replied with a smile as he led Bingley's dapple grey into the length of the stable to walk him.

Netherfield's master removed to the house where the butler greeted him. "It is good to have you back, sir," Fosset said, his training preventing a smile gracing his face, but his eyes shown in approval.

"Thank you, Fosset. It is good to be home again. I trust you have kept everything in order in my absence."

"Yes, sir, would you require a bath be drawn for you now?"

"I would appreciate that, thank you," replied Bingley, pausing before asking, "And the kitchen repairs are on schedule?"

"As far as I am aware, sir," he replied. "Would you like to speak with Mr. Gilford about them?"

"Yes, if he is available. Thank you."

As Fosset bowed to depart to inform the Netherfield steward of the master's return, he added, "And Mr. Darcy is within the library, sir."

Bingley smiled at the butler's anticipating his next question. "Thank your, Fosset."

"Very good, sir."

At the butler's departure, Bingley made his way into his meager bookroom down the hallway. Upon opening the door, he spied his friend sitting in a comfortable armchair nearest the window reading.

Without gazing up, Darcy said, "About time you showed up, Bingley."

Bingley smiled as Darcy rose to shake his hand. Bingley poured each a glass of sherry, offering his friend one though it was still early in the afternoon.

Accepting the glass, Darcy noticed how tired his young friend was. "I trust all is well? Your family is in good health?"

With a sigh, Bingley nodded, saying only, "We are accommodating as best we can."

To anyone else this would have been an enigmatic response, but Darcy merely nodded in return, changing the subject to, "Your steward will report to you all that the workers have accomplished on the repairs to the kitchens, although perhaps," he chuckled, "not how much your cook anticipates the upgrades to the stove."

Sitting in the adjacent armchair, Bingley asked with surprise, "How so?"

Darcy sat back down and actually smiled as he replied, "His eyes are as bright as a child on Christmas morn, eagerly wishing to try out his new toy. I hesitate to wonder at all the concoctions he has deigned to dream of these past weeks while eagerly awaiting the ability to make them reality."

To this Bingley laughed. "Well then, I shall have a dinner party to celebrate the christening of the modern contraptions in the new kitchen facilities."

"You should wait to oversee the menu, and have your family returned that you may have a hostess."

Sipping his sherry, Bingley tried to sound jovial. "Hurst at least sends his regards for a return to fine dining, plentiful of sport in autumn and witty repartee."

"Of that I have no doubt," Darcy acknowledged, quickly adding, "Although, as far as wit, there is only ourselves and perhaps a few more men in the offing."

At Bingley's frown, Darcy explained, "Due to an outbreak of measles at the Gardiner house, the two eldest Miss Bennets remain in town to tend their cousins." Seeing the concern cross Bingley's face, Darcy raised his hand to put him at ease. "I have it on good authority that all are on the mend. Miss Catherine informed me that they are recovering and that a return of her sisters is eminent."

Breathing a sigh of relief, Bingley replied, "Good, good. I would worry if those children are very ill, especially the youngest."

"Miss Ellie had the worst case but with the tender care of her cousins, I am sure she is in good hands."

Nodding, Bingley rose, finished his sherry, and said, "Well, I need to remove this road dust, and will meet you for dinner?" At Darcy's nod with a perceptive notice of the tiredness of his friend to keep from inquiring further, Bingley added, "I thank you for returning to tend to these matters for me, Darcy. Knowing your propensity to privacy I am sure you have not been comfortable with all the neighbors dropping by or inviting you to dine."

Shaking his head, Darcy negated any ill ease in company. "It is of no inconvenience," adding after a pause, "And now that you are return, I would imagine Fosset will soon be burdened with a salver of cards and invitations from all your neighbors by dinner time." Seeing Bingley smile and nod, Darcy finished his sherry and said, "Although you should be made aware, Mr. Goulding's nieces are visiting on holiday from school at present and-"

"And have an interest in securing husbands," Bingley teased.

"Indeed, and are quite competitive in their pursuits," Darcy teased back, smiling.

Bingley turned to the door, saying over his shoulder, "Then I thank you for the warning, Darcy."

Nearly everyone in Meryton seemed happy to again have the personable young man in their midst as evidence by the number of invitations flooding the salver at Netherfield, especially from many of the ambitious mamas. The intent was clear in inviting him to sup with their families though they used the guise of Christian charity as Mr. Bingley still had no means of conducting his own meals without a kitchen.

It seemed his neighbors vowed to accept without question whatever excuse Bingley would forward to explain his time away. No one thought any the worst of the gentleman for remaining elsewhere over winter and even the spring. So long as he had a competent steward to handle the tenants the spring plantings were assured.

Many merchants in the shops were heard by the proprietors to cite, "rich young men may do as they please with their time," or, "men such as Mr. Bingley's stature must be obligated with many other engagements in town." It was generally accepted by the populace that Mr. Bingley would come to supervise the repairs and remain for the duration of summer until he was called again to engagements in ton.

There was one member of the area for which Bingley's return did not bode well, however, for he had yet to visit Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet, therefore, was near hysterics at such a lapse, which she voiced with much regularity to her beleaguered husband.

"Have you not sent him a note welcoming him back, Mr. Bennet?"

"I see no reason to make the effort, Mrs. Bennet. The man is occupied at the moment trying to get his house in order, and will make an appearance at Longbourn at his leisure."

"And why have you not written to your daughters to have them hurry home?"

Throwing his spectacles on his cluttered desk, Mr. Bennet pinched the bridge of his nose at her demand for the fifth time that day. Trying to be calm, he chided her, "Because both Jane and Lizzy are still aiding our sister with her family's illness. Mrs. Bennet, if it had been your children afflicted, you would be appreciative of all the help of your relations."

Wringing her hands to twist her already wrinkled handkerchief, she whined, "But with Mr. Bingley come back to Netherfield-"

"If you believe that he is of such inconstancy of our acquaintance or that his head would be turned to another young lady of the neighborhood because of Jane's absence, they frankly, I would not wish him for a son-in-law."

"But, will you not write-"

"No, my dear," he admonished. "I have received a missive from our brother Gardiner stating that he wishes our daughters stay for an additional week in order to have the children better recovered-"

"But, but-"

"And he will send them back to us at the earliest possible date."

"They will come in a week, then?"

"That is what Edward assures me, Fanny."

Mrs. Bennet sighed. "Well, well, there is nothing to be done for it, then."

"No, and now, might I have the room returned to its former use as a library, my dear?"

"Oh, Mr. Bennet! You take great delight in vexing me!" She stomped off in a huff.

Mr. Bennet shook his head at the ease of which that was accomplished, and sighed, awaiting her next display of pique in a few hours' time.

Having accepted an invitation to dine at the Gouldings' for the evening, Bingley witnessed first hand the competitive nature of the Miss Hightowers. Though neither young lady was yet out, having a final year left in their schooling, each took an avid interest in attaching themselves to his arms, asking questions of his family, his rented estate, and the more personnel queries about why he was still unmarried.

While amused at their eager flirtations to outdo the other, Bingley answered most of their pertinent questions with affability and friendliness. Amiable as ever, with an openness for which he was renowned, the evening progressed with Mrs. Goulding smiling appreciatively to all his remarks toward her nieces.

Bingley left them with the hope that their pursuit of him were not in vain though in his heart he knew it to be a hopeless endeavor. Much as he wished the one person in whose company he would welcome beyond any school aged girls, he sighed knowing Jane Bennet was not yet returned to Longbourn to attend such an evening's amusement.

Quelling his disappointment as best he could, Bingley continued to speak cordially to everyone around him. With the spirited nature of both Miss Hightowers towards his own person, still a novelty for him instead of the other way around, Bingley began to have a greater understanding as to Darcy's reluctance to go much into society. Glancing over at his friend speaking to Mr. Goulding of horses, Bingley had a fleeting thought of relief.

At least with the absence of my family in residence at Netherfield Darcy no doubt can appreciate not having to deal with the advances from a certain quarter.