Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter 6

Posted on 2008-11-11

The expressions of shock varied among the quartet as they watched Mrs. Bennet’s entrance as she had emphatically stated earlier that she would not leave her room. What surprised them even more was her apparent tranquil demeanor; this calmness did not diminish the signs of her grief evidenced by the red-rimmed eyes, red nose and the damp handkerchief in her hand. However, Mr. Gardiner quickly recognized the gleam in his sister’s eye knowing that it did not bode well for any of them. Glancing at his wife, he saw her sigh in equal exasperation and look worriedly at Lizzy.

Despite the moderate level of peace she had gained in talking with her aunt over her distress, Elizabeth felt dread creep down her spine. Shivering, she pulled her shawl tighter over her shoulders as if to ward off the oncoming storm.

Although she remained totally focused on her second eldest daughter, she paid no attention to Elizabeth’s reaction nor anyone else’s either. As she started toward her daughter, she finally caught sight of Bingley standing next to her brother and she blinked as if she could not take in what she was seeing. Finally, a certain amount of indignation arose in her face and raising her chin, she gave him a fierce look. “Mr. Bingley, what are you doing here? My family is not entertaining now that Jane and my husband are dead. I am sure my brother could not be so lax as to not inform you and I know you were here yesterday, so what can you be doing here now?”

Flinching, Bingley blushed and looked away, his jaw clenched tight.

At the same time, Mr. Gardiner glared at his sister, “Margaret, Mr. Bingley kindly relayed some business your late husband left to him yesterday. You can hardly fault him for his presence under such a circumstance, rather, you should be thanking him for his assistance especially as you so clearly pointed out his non-family status.”

Stiffening, Mrs. Bennet felt the reprimand, but almost as soon as she felt offended, her shoulders slumped and she dabbed at some tears that welled in her eyes. Turning to Mr. Bingley, she bit her lip before speaking, “I apologize for my rash comment, Mr. Bingley, but you must understand I am not myself as I am sure you feel Jane’s loss as much as we do.”

Nodding briefly to her, Bingley looked at her with a mixture of anger and suppressed pain. His voice, when he spoke, carried all the indications of severe restraint, “Most assuredly, Madam. Her loss . . . her loss could not be more deeply felt.”

Unable to look him in the eye after that reply, Mrs. Bennet tried to return her attention to her original course. “Well . . . well . . . well all of you have meet my husband’s cousin, Mr. Collins, and I am sure you will be happy to hear that he intends to let us all stay here1 .”

Eyebrows raised, the quartet shared looks of puzzlement until a strong sense of suspicion created a growing wariness in each of them. Narrowing his eyes as he recalled the gentleman’s callous comments from earlier in the day, Mr. Gardiner began watching him in earnest distrustful of this very contrary statement.

“We were under the impression that you intended to take control immediately, Mr. Collins.”

Smiling indulgently, Mr. Collins answered Mr. Gardiner but turned his gaze momentarily to his cousin part way through. “Oh, indeed I will after the funeral as I said, but certain circumstances,I trust, will change enough to allow this change by that time2 .”

Taking no notice of her daughter’s sudden pallour, Mrs. Bennet smiled at her late husband’s cousin3 , “Indeed, Mr. Collins, I have no doubt that everything will go exactly as it ought. There shall be no problems or difficulties. Now, will you be so kind as to keep my daughter Lizzy company4 while I go arrange for dinner in the dining room. It will be a simple meal under the circumstances, but I hope it will make you feel welcome, sir.” Pausing, she frowned as she observed Mrs. Gardiner retake her seat next to Elizabeth. “Sister, will you come help me? I am sure I do not know what I am about and would wish your steadying hand to help me remember everything.”

“Margaret, I should stay and care for Lizzy. She is still in some pain from her own injuries and . . .”

“Oh poo, Lizzy will do just fine for a few minutes without your presence and I need your help.”

Although unwilling to leave her niece, she glanced at her husband who nodded to her. Feeling that at least Elizabeth would not be abandoned, she patted her niece’s hand and sighed. Glancing up, she noted her sister-in-law’s impatient glare and reluctantly stood and followed her out.

Unfortunately for everyone, but particularly for Elizabeth, Mr. Collins pounced on the seat only moments after Mrs. Gardiner had vacated it and straight away began enquiring as to his fair cousin’s health and without waiting for any reply started advising her on how to care for her injuries by relating his patroness’s guidance on such matters5 .

Shocked at the gentleman’s impudence, Mr. Gardiner started to approach them. Having taken two steps toward the divan, he frowned when he saw his sister call him from the doorway, “Brother, Marianne wants to speak to you a moment4&6 .”

“For what reason?”

Shrugging, Mrs. Bennet replied, “I do not know. I was only told to tell you that you are wanted immediately.”

Pursing his lips, Mr. Gardiner scowled as he recognized his sister’s tactic. Marching out after her, he considered how to confront his sister as he fully intended to put an end to her manipulations.

Seeing Elizabeth trapped alone with Mr. Collins and her last close relative leave the room, Bingley walked over and took the seat near the foot of the divan and joined the conversation much to the other gentleman’s consternation and her relief.

However, Elizabeth and Bingley’s endurance waned as the time ticked on by, first five minutes, then fifteen and finally thirty minutes. Mr. Collins seemingly unending flattery toward Elizabeth and his constant praise of Rosings Park and his Patroness7 not only wore their patience to within a thread of non-existance, but also prevented Bingley from informing the gentleman of the engagement; every time Bingley attempted to change the subject, Mr. Collins always managed to link it back to one of his favorite topics and thus restart the circle of conversation.

As this cyclical exchange continued, the strain of the past two days pressed on Elizabeth to the point where she fought an increasingly losing battle to maintain her composure; even Mr. Bingley’s drawing her cousin’s attention to himself gave her little relief.

Putting her hand to her temple as she heard her cousin wax eloquent on another grand aspect of Rosing’s Park7, Elizabeth closed her eyes in her last effort to retain her self-control; however, it was not enough as a sob escaped her mouth. That first sound sent her over the edge and she could no longer hold in her feelings as she put her head in her hands and sobbed uncontrollably. Before Mr. Collins could overcome his own shock at his cousin’s sudden descent into anguish, Bingley was on his knees beside her and had taken one of her hands trying to speak comfortingly to her while fighting back his own suffering

Seeing Bingley’s swift reaction and current closeness to his preferred cousin, Mr. Collins’ shock quickly turned into indignation, “Sir, I do not think it proper for you – a near stranger – to comfort my cousin. On the other hand, I as a relative . . .”

Patience exhausted, Bingley glared at him with a fierceness that silenced the other gentleman mid-word leaving him sitting there gaping. “As a relative, you should have considered your cousin’s feelings and physical state before initiating such a long winded commentary. Now, please, if you have even the smallest shred of compassion for her go and fetch Mrs. Gardiner immediately.”

Partly cowed by the reprimand, partly grasping on the idea of providing any service to his fair cousin and thus furthering his suit, Mr. Collins hurried out the door.

As soon as the door closed, Bingley turned back to Elizabeth and found his own grief swelling in response to the pitiful sobs wracking her body. Closing his eyes tightly, he pushed down those painful feelings; however, a single tear escaped his eyes and travelled down his cheek as an image of Jane as he had seen her only the day before swam in front of his eyes.

Gasping, Bingley grasped at his own fragile control as he nearly lost it when he heard Elizabeth whisper, “Jane, oh Jane, why did you have to die?! And Papa, why did you both have to leave me?”

Despite his position of kneeling by Elizabeth and holding her hands, Bingley kept his gaze firmly on the floor knowing that if he looked up and saw her despair he would be unable to sustain any slim hope of self-control and at the moment he knew he could not indulge his own grief no matter how much that appealed to him at present.

Hearing the door open, Bingley turned and was relieved to see not only Mrs. Gardiner but Mr. Gardiner enter; he grimaced as he saw Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins follow them in.

As Mrs. Gardiner rushed to her niece’s side, Bingley stood and stepped away turning to the others who remained near the door being kept from joining those on the divan by Mr. Gardiner. Only a moment later, Mrs. Gardiner addressed the group from where she held her still sobbing niece stating that Elizabeth was not only in desperate need of rest but privacy as well.

To Mrs. Bennet whose only comfort in anything distressful came from the attention of others8 , this was incomprehensible, “Really, that is not necessary. How could she want to be alone when she could receive the comfort only her family can give her which now includes her cousin?”

Patient as always, Mrs. Gardiner looked at her sister-in-law with little more than a look of reproach, “It is always good to have the sympathy of loved ones, but Elizabeth is also suffering from her injuries. I know Dr. Richards ordered Elizabeth to rest which she cannot do with everyone hovering about. She needs sleep and that means she must return to her room which I am sure you will not find fault with, sister.”

”Oh, well if it is necessary.”

“It is.”

Stepping forward, Bingley addressed Mrs. Gardiner, “I will help.”

However, he only managed one more step when Mr. Collins broke in, “I do not think it appropriate for you to help her up to her room, rather it should be a relative and I as . . .”

Sensing the distress such an offer of assistance from him would create and feeling a little upset over it himself, Mr. Gardiner interrupted, “Then we are agreed that I will help my niece up to her room. Do you find any fault with her uncle helping her?”

“No, no sir. Not at all. You are most kind and gracious to put your time out to help those whose sorrow overcomes them to the point no comfort can . . .”

“Yes, yes, indeed. Let me help my niece.”

He walked over and quickly determining that Elizabeth’s anguish was too great to allow her any faculties to climb the stairs even with assistance, Mr. Gardiner picked up his niece and carried her up to her room with his wife following them up. Once they had settled her, Mr. Gardiner left his wife to care for her. He knew someone had to stay with his niece not only for her own comfort, but because he did not trust his sister not to try to take whatever opportunity she could to order her daughter into anything.

As he re-entered the drawing room, Mr. Gardiner grimaced in dismay as he over heard his sister complaining over the possible ruination of her dinner in a couple of hours.

Fixing her with a glare, he interrupted her tête-à-tête with Mr. Collins. “Margaret, how does Lizzy’s grief and exhaustion ruin your dinner? Besides, considering the state of the family, is it not inappropriate to be planning a dinner of such importance even if it remains within the family?”

“It is in thanks for Mr. Bennet’s cousin not throwing us out which Lizzy ought to be thankful for too3 . She could at least talk to him.”

“I think not. You should be a little more considerate of your daughter’s health and happiness rather than . . .”

“Oh, I forgot, I must go discuss something with the cook. Mr. Collins will you please join me? I am sure you would like to see the kitchens.”

Their departure left two frustrated people in their wake; one fuming and one disgusted and shocked.

Sighing as he raked his hand through this hair, the older gentleman turned to the younger, “Perhaps we should adjourn to the study. You look like you could use some rest yourself.”

Bingley made no argument and followed him to the study where he took a seat by the window while Mr. Gardiner went to the one shelf where he pulled down a decanter of brandy and two glasses. After pouring two small glasses, he joined Bingley by the window and handed him one before taking the seat opposite.

“I thought you could use a little.”

Bingley absentmindedly nodded his thanks and stared down at his drink though he did not even raise it to his lips

Watching emotions play across the younger man’s countenance, Mr. Gardiner took a sip of his own drink and tentatively addressed him, “So, you really loved Jane.”

His comment had been calculated to provoke a response and it did not disappoint. He noted Bingley’s sharp intake of breath and the tightening of the his jaw. “Jane wrote to her aunt, confiding her feelings for a certain gentleman who had recently taken a house in the neighbourhood.” This time the reaction was more pronounced and Mr. Gardiner saw him shut his eyes, lower his head and his body begin to shake. Reaching over, he squeezed the younger man’s shoulder causing Bingley to look up at him. The agonized expression in his eyes along with the tears trailing down his face told Mr. Gardiner all he needed to know, but before he could say anything, Bingley spoke up.

“I did love Jane very much. In fact, I still do. Every time I hear her name, I feel my heart tighten. All day, I have been expecting to see her come into the room with one of her beautiful smiles and make what happened yesterday nothing more than a terrible nightmare. All I want to do is find someplace where I can . . . can . . .”

“Mourn.”

Bingley nodded as he wiped some tears away, “But I do not have the luxury to indulge my grief. I gave Jane my promise, my word, that I would take care of her sister, marry her sister in the next two weeks. Yet, all I want is to leave, think about Jane and the future we might have had, I want to deny that the accident ever happened. All I really want is that I were marrying Jane and not her sister.”

Rubbing his face with his hand, Bingley looked up, his anguish written clearly across his face, and met Mr. Gardiner’s eyes. “Yet, what kind of a wretch would it make me if I broke my word to the woman I love, to leave her last wish unfulfilled? I cannot do that, no matter how much I wish it were otherwise. I love Jane too much to do something so dishonorable.”

Seeing the conflict on the younger man’s face, Mr. Gardiner leaned back contemplating what he should say, “No, I dare say you could not and it only goes to prove your worth as well as your affection for Jane. It is this willingness to go through with your last promise to Jane despite your own reservations and desires that makes me somewhat comfortable with the current situation. The fact that you are able to grieve also tells me how deeply you felt as well as its value. I know, it will not be overnight, but you both love Jane and when the time finally arrives where you can mourn, you will be able to help each other. However, it will be some time before any of us will be able to find that time.”

His brow creasing, Bingley gave the older gentleman a questioning look.

“Yes, indeed it will be a while. You have seen for yourself the trouble we will have at figuring out living arrangements for my sister and nieces. It will all depend on what Mr. Collins will do once he learns his preferred choice is unavailable and I have to admit, I am not pleased with the idea of his marrying any of my nieces. The only alternative for the present will be for them to accompany my wife and I back to London.” Noting the younger man’s expression, Mr. Gardiner raised up his hand, “No, I will not hear of my sister and nieces coming to stay with you at Netherfield. You and Elizabeth will have enough to deal with without Margaret’s nerves thrown into the mix9 . I have dealt with my sister for many years and she will be less likely to act up in my home than she would in yours. In addition, I believe you have your own family to inform who are already staying with you. I think I heard you had two sisters and the husband of one of them living currently at Netherfield?”

“Yes, sir. My sisters Caroline and Louisa and Louisa’s husband, Milton Hurst, are staying there.”

“So, you will have them, Elizabeth and yourself to consider when everything is said and done and you are back at Netherfield. This does not include all that must be arranged in the next two weeks from the funeral to the special license and so on. It will keep us all very busy and prevent us from having any real time to mourn. I know when my sister joins us in London, it will be even longer.”

“Sir, if that is the case . . .”

“You are thinking of our discomfort and our need to grieve. Like I said earlier, I have more experience in dealing with my sister’s propensity to indulge her nerves and leave everything to everyone else8&9 . You have already seen how she had sequestered herself in her room to leave the burden of arrangements and the house and estate on Lizzy until my wife and I arrived. She makes as much trouble as she can without consideration for anyone else10 . As her brother, I still have some sway. Again, like I stated before, I could not countenance foisting her and my nieces on you and Elizabeth. My sister will believe she is being helpful, but can be quite pushy when she does not get her way and as a result will no doubt create problems for everyone at Netherfield.”

Bingley only nodded, understanding that there was no use arguing at the same time not really willing to continue to disagree. He remained silent and Mr. Gardiner sighed as he sipped at his brandy and again leaned back in his chair.

“Besides, you will get a taste of how my sister acts in the next few days and see how she lets everyone else handle the arrangements for the funeral as well as her and her daughters welfare, although she already has some peculiar ideas on how to manage the latter.”

“You mean her intent to force Miss Elizabeth to accept Mr. Collins4.”

“Indeed. Her desire to maintain her home is such that she ignores anything else and changes the subject whenever someone tries to dislodge her from her course.”

“I likewise failed to inform Mr. Collins. It was almost as if he knew what I was intending.”

The older gentleman sighed, “I would not be surprised if my sister told him that I disapprove of his courtship of Elizabeth. You see, a few years ago, when Elizabeth was first out in society, she, Jane and my sister came to stay with us. During their visit, a pair of young men took interest in my nieces. Each had a nice income and the one interested in Jane also had a large estate which thrilled my sister to no end. However, I saw quickly that neither of my nieces cared for the gentlemen’s attentions at all; the one interested in Jane was a little too free with his compliments which were in some ways much like Mr. Collins’. When Elizabeth and more particularly Jane grew agitated over their mother’s insistence that they ‘catch’ these gentlemen, my wife and I stepped in and informed Mr. Bennet who recalled his family to Longbourn while I made it clear to the gentlemen that my brother would never consent to the matches. Ever since, my sister has held a grudge against me. Whenever it comes to a potential match for one of her daughters that she approves, she will not inform me and ignores anything I have had to say. I have been thankful for my-brother-in-law’s sense in regards to matches. He always desired them to at least be content with the gentleman of their choice rather than with his wealth or estate and put an end to her hopes if only by refusing consent11 .”

Bingley sat back in thought over everything he had just learned partly for the information itself and partly to keep his mind distracted as it was still far to prone to wander back to his grief. “I agree that Mrs. Bennet most probably informed Mr. Collins of your potential dislike. Every time I tried to lead the conversation to inform him, he turned it right back to Rosings Park.”

“That would be like my sister. If she is certain she can gain a husband for one of her daughters, nothing will stand in her way. We may have an opportunity to tell everyone tonight at my sister’s ‘welcome’ dinner for Mr. Collins to which I have procured an invitation to you though she thought I was being ridiculous. I hope you can stay as it may provide the easiest means of informing everyone at one time.”

“Of course, I will stay. It will save us all trouble to settle this tonight rather than later. Yet, I do not understand why Mrs. Bennet wants to ‘welcome’ Mr. Collins with a special meal under the circumstances.”

“I imagine it has more to do with her hopes of his marrying Elizabeth and her retaining her home than any welcoming of the gentleman himself4.”

“If that is the case, would not Miss Elizabeth’s non-attendance throw her plans awry or do you suppose that Miss Elizabeth will be up to attending?”

“I do not know if my niece will be equal to attending, but she will have little peace if she does not. My sister will have no qualms in badgering her into being present when her home is on the line.”

Sighing, Mr. Gardiner again pinched the bridge of his nose and looked out the window, concern creasing his brow. Silence followed as each sat back considering the situation and sipping their brandy. The respite was much appreciated and when Mr. Gardiner turned back to face the younger man, he noted that Bingley had dozed off. Aware of the strain of the passed two days, Mr. Gardiner decided to let him have a few minutes rest and stood and left the room. He knew the young man would need a few minutes rest as that evening would prove quite eventful.

Chapter 7

The clock ticked on monotonously while the hands rested on a quarter to eight. Stretching in his chair, Bingley frowned as he reached up to rub the crick in his neck; this action had the power of restoring him to full consciousness and he realized that he had fallen asleep causing him to blush. Standing, he had started toward the door when it opened to admit Mr. Gardiner who smiled tiredly, “Good, you are up. I can see the rest did you some good and you will be glad you got it. The dinner will start in about fifteen minutes and perhaps then we can tell everyone. Come, join us in the drawing room until then.”

Feeling a little out of sorts after having just awoken as well as a little stiff, Bingley followed Mr. Gardiner into the drawing room where he saw Elizabeth sitting closely with her aunt enduring the further attentions of Mr. Collins2. She had dark circles under her eyes and her wan expression only emphasized the depression that entrenched itself further into her feelings; tears that welled in her eyes were willed back into submission by Elizabeth.

Surveying the room, he further noted that the other three Miss Bennets were in attendance. Miss Mary sat in the chair closest Elizabeth and her aunt and listened attentively to her cousin though he did notice her slight frown at some of Mr. Collins’s comments. Further away from the group sat Miss Catherine who dabbed at her eyes repeatedly with her handkerchief trying to stem the flow of tears that kept pouring from her eyes. Unfortunately, she seemed to only cry harder when her mother, who sat next to her, remonstrated her for crying so much in company.

Lastly, he noted Miss Lydia, whose eyes were as red-rimmed as her sister Catherine’s, frowned whenever she saw Mr. Collins compliment Elizabeth. Besides that, she seemed to be continually looking at him oddly making Bingley feel a little disconcerted. Ignoring this odd behavior, he assumed that she wondered at his presence under such circumstances. Walking over, he took a seat near Elizabeth and joined in Mrs. Gardiner’s efforts to deflect Mr. Collins’s conversation away from Elizabeth.

The next fifteen minutes passed with great consternation on the parts of many in the group. It seemed that participating in a conversation with either Mrs. Bennet or Mr. Collins meant reducing speech and increasing the number of nods one gave as they did not seem particularly interested in anyone else’s opinion.

When dinner was finally announced, Bingley stood and faced Elizabeth, holding out his hand, “Miss Elizabeth, may I escort you in to dinner?”

Relief etched into her face, she started to respond when a loud voice from across the room interrupted her, “No, Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth already has an escort.”

Mrs. Bennet hurried across the room and all but pushed Bingley out of her way and taking her daughter’s hand made her stand up and face Mr. Collins who stood there with a condescending and triumphant smile.

Seeing no way to refuse, Elizabeth accepted his arm with ill-concealed dislike but refused to accept any other support even as she pursed her lips and bit her tongue to keep from crying out in pain at each step she took on her still injured ankle.

All of the party, minus two, were further dismayed upon entering the dining room and observing the name cards at each place setting. Elizabeth found herself led to a place between her mother and next to Mr. Collins. To her further consternation, she saw Mary seated directly across from her with Lydia next to her leaving her completely surrounded without a single ally, or so she thought.

Kitty was no less pleased to be seated next to Mr. Collins, but she pointedly ignored him by either conversing with her aunt seated on her other side or sitting silently.

Likewise, Bingley frowned when he discovered that he had been placed as far from Elizabeth as possible as had the Gardiners. He realized the meal would be an extremely uncomfortable one and he wondered if they would have an opportunity to break through the alliance that existed between Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins who as soon as the meal started never stopped talking.

The meal progressed in the same manner leaving many feeling frustrated. Mrs. Bennet frowned at her daughter’s lack of encouragement to Mr. Collins’s attentions and tried to hint to her to act better toward him to no effect12 . In addition, Mrs. Bennet was shocked that Mary continued to interrupt the conversation and draw Mr. Collins’ attention away from time to time and to add insult to injury, Lydia followed Mary’s lead.

Meanwhile, Bingley had been able to observe Elizabeth’s discomfort at her cousin’s attentions and her mother’s pressure. He like Mr. Gardiner next to him was thankful that Mary and Lydia provided some little relief to her suffering. As he picked at his food, Bingley was surprised when Lydia turned to him and whispered, “Why cannot Mama and Mr. Collins see Lizzy is not well nor is interested in their plans.”

Looking up sharply at her, he saw her quickly return her attention back to the other end of the table where she promptly interrupted Mr. Collins half-way through another commentary on the grandeur of Rosing’s Park7.

After this startling comment, the meal wound to an end. Mrs. Bennet, determined to carry her purpose, started to herd everyone back to the drawing room, intending to have Mr. Collins escort Elizabeth again. However, Mrs. Gardiner approached her niece and quickly discovered her fatigue and desire to return to her room causing Mrs. Bennet to become incensed at the disruption of her plans.

“But, sister, surely Lizzy could join us for a few minutes. If the rest of us can put aside our grief for a few minutes to welcome our cousin, then so can she.”

“No she can not nor will she. Elizabeth will be retiring. You and my other nieces can entertain Mr. Collins in the drawing room.”

“But, sister . . .” Mrs. Bennet trailed off as she took in the glare her brother directed at her.

“Margaret, take Mr. Collins, Mary, Kitty and Lydia to the drawing room. Now.”

Seeing his resolute expression, Mrs. Bennet did just what he said. Once the door closed behind them, silence fell on the remaining occupants who all felt the tension deflate with the departure of the others.

Closing his eyes, Bingley suddenly felt inexplicably nervous as if he did not know quite what to say or do. It did not make sense as all day he had managed, at least until his conversation with Mr. Gardiner. Now, it was as if all his feelings – betrayal of his feelings for Jane, concern for her sister, uncertainty over the future, dread of dealing with his sister, and so many more – were all amplified beyond anything he had felt yet; it was like one of those times when silence is almost painfully loud and he did not know what to make of it. His eyes slipped across the room where he saw Elizabeth resting her head on her aunt’s shoulder, almost asleep. The day has been far harder on her than anyone else. Her mother is determined to have her way no matter what it does to her daughter.

Shaking his head, Bingley tried to clear his head. Looking up, he noted Mr. Gardiner approach him.

The older man gave him a grim smile, “You should go home; you look like your ready to fall asleep again.”

Embarrassed, Bingley blushed, “I am sorry sir. I did not mean to fall asleep . . .”

“Nonsense. You were tired and understandably so.”

“Thank you, sir.”

Silence reigned again for a few moments before Bingley spoke again, “Sir, I was wondering if Miss Elizabeth would be . . . . ummm . . . would be able to find rest here due to . . .”

“Due to my sister’s determination?”

Shifting uncomfortably, Bingley looked a little uncomfortable. “Ah, yes sir.”

“Do not look so uneasy over addressing that issue. It is a reasonable issue to consider. My sister would have no qualms going into her room tonight or in the morning to order Lizzy to accept Mr. Collins’s attentions4.”

“If that could be a problem, I would willingly offer Netherfield as an alternative. There I am sure you, your wife and Miss Elizabeth would be undisturbed.”

“Your offer is much appreciated, but until we find an opportunity to relate the truth to the others, we must stay here. Besides, it would look odd to your relations to have us suddenly showing up at Netherfield until they learn the whole of the situation.”

“But . . .”

“My wife can stay with Lizzy for the time being. She will not let my sister press too much and my sister would not dare do more than hint in Marianne’s presence.”

“Oh. Well, please remember if . . . difficulties . . . develop, you are all welcome at Netherfield. My sisters might question it, but they will not give you any trouble.”

Mr. Gardiner simply raised an eyebrow.

It was then that Mrs. Gardiner called their attention, “Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth would like to speak to you for a moment.”

Nodding to Mr. Gardiner, he walked across the room and stood across from Elizabeth who remained seated; her eyes tired, and her expression wan.

“Mr. Bingley, I wanted to thank you for your kindness in diverting Mr. Collins’s conversation and attentions earlier today. I am very thankful for the relief your actions provided.”

“You are welcome.”

Nervously biting her lip, Elizabeth looked up and added, “Yet, do not think that you need to put yourself out for me. My sister’s request does not require you to endure such behavior or conversation.”

Looking at her sharply, Bingley shook his head, “I could do no less than keep all aspects of the promise I made Miss Jane.”

Elizabeth bit her lip as she looked down. Her aunt immediately saw her tired state and put her arm around her. “Edward, I think we had best get Lizzy upstairs before she falls asleep here.”

Bingley spoke up for a moment as Mr. Gardiner approached the trio, “I had best be on my way. I am sure my sisters are wondering where I am at the moment.”

Looking up from where he was helping his niece to her feet, Mr. Gardiner addressed him, “You will come tomorrow morning so that we might finally have the opportunity of making that announcement.”

“Of course. I will come as soon as I can though my sisters might delay me.”

Mr. Gardiner nodded, “Good night to you then. I hope you will forgive me for not showing you out.”

“Totally understandable sir. I can show myself out. Good night sir, Mrs. Gardiner, Miss Elizabeth.”

“Good night, Mr. Bingley.”

“Good night.”

After bowing to the other three, Bingley returned to Netherfield feeling exhausted despite the rest he had managed earlier. His mind was filled with many thoughts most particularly on what he had seen that evening. Turning into the drive leading up to Netherfield house, Bingley sighed as he noted the light at the drawing room window and grimaced as he saw the curtain at the same window move as if someone had just moved away from looking out.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 7 & 13
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13, 15, 17-19
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 15 & 19
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 14; Volume 2 Chapter 6
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 13
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 14
8 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21 & 23; Volume 3 Chapter 5
9) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 1
10) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 6
11) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 20; Volume 3 Chapter 17
12) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 17

Chapter 8

Posted on 2008-12-02

Quietly handing his great coat to the footman who greeted him, Bingley hoped to hurry to his room before his sister could find him. However, as he turned to head for the stairs, he saw Caroline, closely followed by Louisa, exit the drawing room and walk straight toward him.

Letting out a deep breath, Bingley closed his eyes as he summoned the strength to endure his sister’s imminent interrogation.

“Charles, where have you been?! You have been gone all day and after having been gone so long yesterday too? Do not tell me you have been to Longbourn! I mean they have only just gone into mourning and . . .”

As she continued on, Bingley tried to pay attention to his sister’s monologue but found it increasingly irksome. Caroline’s speech, although filled with little comments of commiseration and pity, lacked sincerity and when added to her small barbs of criticism of the Bennet family1 , it pushed him over the edge as his last shred of control disintegrated.

“Caroline, enough! I have heard more than enough.”

“But Charles . . .”

“No ‘but Charles’ if you please.” Brushing passed her, Bingley started again toward the stairs barely noticing his brother-in-law’s uncharacteristic quiet2 as he stood watching the scene from the door to the drawing room with a discerning eye. However, all hopes of reaching his room without enduring an argument with his sister ended when Caroline shouted after him.

“Charles, you will listen to me! You cannot go gallivanting over to visit the Bennets when they have so recently begun morning and I for one am glad of it. Not glad about the tragedy of course, but pleased that you will no longer be able to spend so much time with them. You were paying far too much attention to Miss Bennet as it was, raising expectations that you could never have fulfilled3 . After all, we will be returning to London soon and . . .”

Furious, Bingley spun on his heel and marched back over to his sister and when he had closed the distance, he glared at her. When he opened his mouth, he did not raise his voice, but spoke quietly, expressing every inch of his disgust and anger with the iciness of each word.

“Now, I have seen it all. Have you no true compassion?! Can you feel nothing besides your own perceived superiority4 ? No, I suppose you cannot. All day I have had to watch how Mrs. Bennet treats her own daughter like a bargaining chip, not caring much for her injuries or her loss and that cousin of theirs is no better; in fact, he is worse. Now, I have to have the pleasure of discovering that not only are Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins insensitive and callous, but so is my own sister.”

After a moment more of staring angrily at Caroline as if daring her to say anything, Bingley turned to his other sister who stood off to the side with widened eyes and wringing her hands, “Well, Louisa, do you not have something to say?”

Shaking her head, she remained silent, staring at her brother as if unable to comprehend who he really was.

“Good. Now, I do not wish to be disturbed. Good night.”

With that, he stomped off leaving his sisters staring after him in a dumbfounded fashion. It was at that point that Hurst stepped out from his place at the door and shook his head as he approached his wife and sister-in-law. Before he could speak, however, Caroline shook herself and with an indignant look addressed him.

“Mr. Hurst, did you see how he is acting? We must get him out of Hertfordshire immediately!”

“We must do nothing of the kind.”

“What do you mean? You must help us. Can you not see how my brother has changed? He usually listens to us5 and now he acts without considering how his actions affect us in the eyes of society.”

“Really, Caroline? I cannot see that he has changed so much. Your brother is as compassionate as ever. The only difference I can see is that he has finally had enough of your way of behaving which was always a matter of time. So you see, you have brought this on yourself, Caroline. He is his own man9 and fully capable of making his own decisions.”

Finally having garnered the courage to speak up, Louisa turned to her husband, “But, dear, we are only thinking of how it would affect his position in society. I am sorry for the tragedy surrounding the Bennets. Miss Jane was so sweet and would have made some gentleman a very nice wife, I am sure, but would not have suited Charles2. Eventually both would have been hurt when things fell apart.”

Hurst raised an eyebrow, “Is that really what you think would have happened to them or is it our marriage you speak of?”

Copying his brother-in-law, he turned on his heel and left the room in search of that same gentleman leaving an indignant and furious Caroline and a blushing and hurt Louisa behind. Pausing at the top of the stairs, he considered where his brother was likely to be and then headed toward the study.

As he walked down the hallway, Hurst thought over the incident below stairs and silently concurred with himself that Charles Bingley always managed quite well on his own although he could be persuaded to another’s thinking if given a good reason and particularly if the person doing the persuading was a trusted friend6 .

Approaching the study, he noted light coming out from under the door and knew his conjecture had been correct. Knocking loudly and without waiting for a response, he opened the door to find Bingley sitting at his desk with his head in his hands and a barely touched glass of brandy beside him.

“Caroline, I do not want to disc . . .” Bingley looked up and his irritation drained from his face, “Oh Hurst, I am sorry. I thought it was Caroline.”

“That much is obvious.”

“Well, what have you come for?”

“To listen to you tell me what has caused you to call on the Bennets so soon into their mourning.”

“Oh, please . . .”

Shaking his head, Hurst held up his hand to silence him, “Now do not jump to the conclusion that I am here on behalf of your sisters. I am only here to find out why, besides the obvious grief, you, my brother-in-law and friend, are so out of sorts. You have to admit, your reproving Caroline as you did while memorable and priceless is not your usual style.” Hurst gave one of his rare wry smiles as he took a seat across the desk from Bingley.

“No it is not.”

“You are stalling.”

“True.”

The two sat there in silence each trying to wait the other out. Bingley’s exhaustion made it clear Hurst would have to work harder to get the information he wanted before his friend fell asleep.

“Charles, you have been there for me in the past. Remember how you prevented me from losing my fortune back after I first married Louisa? Now, I know I am not Darcy – there are not one in a hundred, or perhaps a million like him – but I would like to at least offer a considerate ear. Will you at least talk about it?”

“Talk about it, think about it? That is all I seem to do since yesterday. All right I will tell you, but you will not believe me.”

“Try me.”

Bingley nodded and then went on to describe his summons to Longbourn the day before as well as all the subsequent events ending with his arrival back at Netherfield earlier.

Hurst’s eyebrows reached his hairline as he let out a low whistle, “Well, when you get into a situation, you really get into one. It certainly explains your avoidance of everyone here. What are you planning to tell your sisters?”

“Do you not think it odd that I am suddenly engaged to the sister of the woman I love who died only yesterday?”

“Not particularly.”

Eyes widening, Bingley began to wonder about his brother-in-laws current state of intoxication2 .

Hurst laughed, “No, I have not had much to drink today so stop looking at me like that. I only meant that you made a promise to Miss Jane Bennet and you are working on keeping it. End of story. What is there to wonder about?”

“I do not think everyone will be as accepting as you apparently are.”

“No and two of them are down in the drawing room.”

“Urgh. Please do not remind me. I have still not figured out how to tell them while avoiding the fireworks.”

“Hmmm . . . I do not think that is even possible. I can give you a little relief by talking to Louisa. If talking does not work, I can always threaten to cut her allowance. That should give you one less person to manage, but Caroline is all yours to deal with.”

“Thank you, Milton. I hope it will not cause more trouble between you and Louisa.”

Shifting uncomfortably in his chair, Hurst averted his eyes and cleared his throat, “I sincerely doubt that this will cause any more real difficulties between us. If we are already having problems, how is her brother’s marriage going to make it worse?”

“I do not know.”

“Exactly. Besides, Caroline has been the instigator of many of our problems and I think losing her position of mistress of your homes will be beneficial to all of us.”

“Do you really think she will go quietly.”

“Not particularly, no, but after a while she will have to accept it.”

“That still does not answer the question of how to tell her.” Rubbing his eyes, Bingley looked up and sighed, “I guess I will simply tell her at breakfast. There is no way I can make it palatable to her, so it will simply have to be told.”

“If you truly intend to tell her at breakfast, have you thought of how to get her up earlier than her usual eleven in the morning?”

“Hmmm . . . That is a problem, but I have to have her get up no matter if she does not like it. I am expected back at Longbourn tomorrow.”

As he thought, a small smile grew on Milton Hurst’s face, “Actually, allow me to do the honors of waking her up.”

Narrowing his eyes, Bingley cast a wary glance at the other man, “Milton, what are you up to?”

“Oh nothing.”

“Well, just remember that although you and Caroline do not get along, this is no time for revenge.”

“No, of course not; rather, call it simply satisfying to be the one to make her arise before she wants to and being the one to tell her what to do for a change.”

Shaking his head, Bingley could not help but allow a small, though not mirthful, smile to slip onto his face. His brother-in-law and Caroline never could manage to agree on much and usually wound up arguing and this situation provided Hurst with an opportunity for a little bit of payback for all the insults his sister-in-law hurled his way daily.

“All right. I will talk to them first thing in the morning . . .” A large yawn interrupted him mid-sentence and he blinked wearily.

“Yes, first thing in the morning. As for now you had better get some rest; you are going to need every bit you can get. Now go on, I will ensure that your sisters are at breakfast tomorrow.”

“Thank you.” Bingley stood and tiredly walked from the room while his brother-in-law watched him leave. Once he was certain of the other gentleman’s departure, Hurst stood and went to the other side of the desk where he withdrew paper, pen and ink. He quickly began to jot down a list of all that had to be done and followed with a letter to his housekeeper at his townhouse telling her to be ready to accept his wife, he and his sister-in-law sometime in the next two weeks. As he wrote the letter, Hurst murmured to himself, “At least I can repay some of the debt I owe you, my friend.”

Hurst continued making plans for about an hour when he looked up at the clock and realized he would have little enough sleep as it was and quickly finished off the paper work and carrying it with him to his room next to his wife’s. As he reached to open the door to his room, he paused for a moment as he stared sadly at his wife’s door remembering a time when they were not so estranged. Sighing, he walked into his room and deposited the papers in the hidden drawer in the nightstand. It would not due to leave them available for anyone to see.

After preparing for bed, he fell asleep easily as he eagerly anticipated the minor annoyance he would be causing his interfering sister-in-law in the morning.

Tiredly, Bingley yawned deeply as he made his way to the breakfast room. Despite having gained a few hours sleep, he had not found any rest as his dreams tormented him. Even dreaming of Jane did nothing to alleviate the pain he felt as these dreams were particularly disturbing; they went from replaying the accident and his conversation with Jane to seeing Jane having survived the accident only to be forced by her mother into marrying her cousin only to keep Longbourn within the family7 . Suffice it to say, he did not have a very restful night.

Walking into the breakfast room, he looked and frowned when he only saw Hurst and Louisa; the former looking as unconcerned as he ever did while digging into his plate 2 while the latter wore an expression of fatigued bewilderment. Although he wondered over Caroline’s whereabouts, he was unable to question his brother-in-law about it. Shaking his head, Bingley quickly got himself a cup of coffee and a roll while trusting that Hurst had arranged for Caroline to make it to breakfast before he had to leave. Sitting down, he started on his roll as he knew he needed to eat something despite his stomach’s decision to turn itself inside out this morning.

Several minutes passed by in silence during which Bingley continued to nurse his coffee after finishing his roll. He noted his sister’s odd looks between him and her husband. Just then everyone turned toward the door as they heard the click-clack of approaching footsteps that signified Caroline’s imminent entrance. Sure enough, as soon as the door opened, Caroline marched in and glared at Hurst.

“Louisa, will you tell me why your husband ordered the maids to wake me up in my house at such horrible part of the morning 10? ”

“I . . .”

“Actually, it would be better if you asked your brother, but before you do you should remember that your brother has a very frustrating and busy schedule ahead of him.”

Glowering at her brother-in law, Caroline raised her chin and deliberately turned to her brother while crossing her arms indignantly. “Well, Charles, why did you allow Milton to do this?”

Tightening his jaw, Bingley set down his cup and met his sister’s defiant stare, “I allowed it in my house because I have an announcement to make, one which will affect you all and I desired to say it only once.”

Rolling her eyes, she waved her hands dismissively as she approached the table to take a seat. “Really, Charles, if it is only our return to London, it could have waited another hour or two.”

Grimacing at her arrogant presumption, Bingley leveled his gaze at her, “Hardly that. Rather, I am engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

Having not anticipated such astonishing news, the announcement caught Caroline at a point between sitting and standing at her place at the table. As she remained frozen in this rather problematic position her mouth dropped open and her face paled. Only after a few moments of embarrassment did Caroline manage to regain some of her composure and complete her sitting action.

However, it was Louisa who broke the silence first, “But Charles! Your . . . you were always so attentive to Miss Jane3 . . . you even . . . I thought you . . . if you cared for her, why become engaged to her sister the day after her death?”

Nodding at Louisa’s surprisingly reasonable concern, Bingley turned to her, “I gave my word to Jane, on her deathbed, that I would marry her sister. It was her last request. If I could not have the opportunity to make her my wife, I can and I will fulfill that one wish.”

It was at this point that Caroline’s shock had worn off enough for her to splutter indignantly, “But Elizabeth Bennet! She is nothing, a no-body. Jane at least had beauty and a sweet-disposition8 , but her! How can you even contemplate lowering . . .”

“Caroline enough!” His shout silenced her for a moment as she stared, shocked at seeing another uncharacteristic display of temper from her good-natured brother. He continued, “She will be your sister in less than a fortnight, so I suggest that you get over whatever objections you have as I expect you to treat my future wife with the respect due to her.”

Both his sisters’ eyes widened and Louisa opened her mouth to speak, but stopped when she felt her husband’s hand on hers. Frowning in surprise, she turned to him and watched as he very discreetly shook his head. Although she could not understand her husband’s desire for her to remain silent, she obeyed knowing that he would tell her why later.

Caroline, however, did not have such restraint, “You cannot mean to marry while she is yet in mourning!”

“That was part of the agreement.”

“How could you? It will look so improper. I mean what will people think?”

“I personally do not care what people will think and since when did you care what our neighbours thought?”

“But . . . but . . .” Stuttering as she tried to think of some retort, Caroline realized she had to tread very carefully if she did not want to bring her brother’s anger to bear on her. She had never seen him get as angry as he had the evening before and she feared she was losing her influence over him.

“Caroline, I know this is quick, but nothing you can say will change my mind. I will be marrying Miss Elizabeth and you will treat her accordingly. Now, if you will excuse me, I must be going.”

With that, Bingley stood, and after giving a nod of thanks to his brother-in-law, he turned and walked out of the room.

Pleased with how the morning had gone, Hurst tucked back into his breakfast. He felt his wife’s cool look of distain for his apparent inability to stop eating no matter the circumstances2 , but he ignored it as easily as he ignored the angry stare his sister-in-law aimed at him.

Meanwhile, Louisa sighed as she watched her husband casually munching on his still heaping plate 2. She had never understood his love affair with food and it was grating on her nerves. Turning to mention her distaste for his behavior, she paused as she noted the gleam in his eye. Looking back at her plate, she picked at the little bit of fruit she had left and sipped her tea as she considered what that gleam meant.

Half-an-hour passed in uneasy silence before Caroline, still furious, huffed and left the room. Closing her eyes, Louisa sat back in her chair feeling some of the tension drain with her sister’s departure. It had been an unpleasant half-hour trying to avoid her sister’s attempts to catch her eye. She knew Caroline would need to vent after this startling revelation and had no desire to be on the receiving end of this rant. Besides, she wanted to know what her husband knew about her brother’s engagement.

As she relaxed a little, she found that she could contemplate the situation better now that her sister had left. Milton rarely involves himself in anything2 , so why would he suddenly act so supportive of Charles’ decision? Why now? Also, why is Charles, my always good tempered brother, so out of humour as to shout as his own sisters? Did he really love Jane that much? Is that the reason? If that is so, then maybe, just maybe, we did him an injustice by trying to separate him from her5 . But even if he is truly still in love with Jane, and not infatuated, did he have to agree to marry her sister? I know he feels honour bound now to uphold his promise, but why did he agree in the first place? For that matter, why did Jane ask him to do this?

As she continued contemplating the sudden turn of events, she did not notice the pair of eyes staring at her. However, when she placed her hand on the table to push herself back and stand, she felt her husband’s hand cover hers again. She paused as she stared at their hands for a moment before she lifted her head to look at her husband. What she saw surprised her. He was watching her intently, a look of compassion, consideration and something more etched deep in his eyes. Blushing, Louisa turned her head away. Feeling her husband squeeze her hand, she tentatively looked back up and saw him raise his finger to his lips before glancing furtively at the door.

“Louisa, I know you are concerned over this situation. If you will come to our rooms, I will explain everything I can. Once you have heard the full story, you will understand how deeply your brother is hurting and why he must do this. Please, I need to explain this to you without your sister present.”

Nodding mutely, Louisa followed her husband wondering at his sudden return to the man she had first met. She could not understand it, but she hoped it would not be temporary.

Once they arrived back in their rooms, Louisa listened to everything Milton could tell her about her brother’s engagement. When he finished, she suddenly felt deeply remorseful over her own behaviour over the past few months and more particularly over the past two days 11. Although she felt saddened at Jane’s untimely death, she found herself feeling horrified on behalf of Miss Elizabeth. She admitted that she felt no particular regard for the second Miss Bennet, but she could not imagine enduring what that young woman was currently suffering. Most of all she felt for her brother. Oh, Charles, I wish I had realized you really loved her. I truly did not think you cared so much2&5. No wonder you are so hurt. If I can do anything to help your marriage become a happy one, I will be only too happy to help.

Feeling her husband clasp her hands in his own, she met his eyes as he spoke, “My dear, do you think you could help me continue with some of the plans I have begun arranging for?”

“To help Charles?”

“Yes. I intend for us to leave for London the same day he marries Miss Elizabeth.”

“But would it not be better to stay here and support them? They are both hurting. I know I have not been friendly toward her 11, but I hope that now, I might provide some consolation to both her and my brother.”

“As admirable as that is and as much as I agree with you that they will need support, I think it would be best for us to return to London and take Caroline with us.”

Louisa’s eyes widened as she caught his emphasis on the last part of his statement. Gasping she closed her eyes, “Oh no. I forgot about her. Caroline is not going to take this lightly and I do not think she will make things any easier. Perhaps you are right. My sister will be happier in London 12, and keeping her away from my brother during the first few weeks of marriage would be beneficial.”

“You realize it may be more than a few weeks.”

“Yes, I know. We will keep her as long as it takes.”

Hearing her sigh of resignation, Milton Hurst felt that for once they were both on the same page regarding his sister-in-law, and smiling at his wife, he took her hand and kissed it. “Thank you, my dear. Now, let me get those papers I started last night and you can help me find what I missed.”

While they were thus occupied, Caroline Bingley paced the drawing room floor, her heels tapping out a monotonous rhythm on the hardwood floor. Her face was pinched and she pursed her lips as she continued to fume. Her mind ran over the whole situation again and again making her only angrier than before. I cannot allow my brother to marry a person lacking in beauty, connections, and money2 . It would be devastating to us all and I most certainly will not give up my place to such a person as Elizabeth Bennet. There must be some way I can stop this marriage!

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6 & 8; Volume 3 Chapter 3 & 18
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 8
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 3-4, 6, 15, 18
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 4-6
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 1, 12, 21
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 10
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 15, 19-20
8 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6 & 8
9) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21
10) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 4
11) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6, 8, 10 &18
12 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21; Volume 2 Chapter 1

Chapter 10

Posted on 2008-12-06

While Caroline fumed and Hurst and Louisa made their plans, Bingley rode to Longbourn as he reflected on the earlier events of the morning. The first prevailing feeling was one of relief; knowing that he had at least one ally in the form of his brother-in-law eased his mind to a point. Then Bingley’s mind clouded over as he considered Caroline’s reaction. He knew better than to presume she would easily capitulate and fully expected her to resort to her usual tactics of seeming deference while she secretly worked to undermine his own plans1 . It was her weapon of choice so to speak and had been used extensively since their father died which had occurred just as Bingley had come of age. He shook his head ashamed of how many times his sister had manipulated him successfully that first year, but was grateful to Darcy who had helped him out of many of those predicaments his sister’s schemes had placed him in2 .

Sighing, Bingley looked around him a little as he considered how his sister might try to interfere. Her disapproval had been more than clear, but he could not come up with any possible ways his sister could prevent or hinder his marriage without either causing a scandal or incurring his retribution for her behavior. He was certain she would not try to spread rumours as it would only come home to roust upon his marriage and Caroline detested any connection to scandal and would not risk the association by starting one herself. What he truly feared was that Caroline would try to corner Miss Elizabeth and launch into one of her harangues about how unsuitable she is as well as all her other objections3 . He would simply have to make sure that no opportunity for such contact ever took place.

Shifting in the saddle, he then thought of his engagement to Miss Elizabeth feeling a twinge of discomfort that he pushed away. He kept his mind carefully on what he would need to do to fulfill his promise while painstakingly avoiding his own feelings. There was simply too much to do and too little time. The funeral would take place on the following day which would mean dealing with the issue of where the Bennets would stay as Collins would not keep them at Longbourn4 . Sighing, he supposed temporary arrangements could be made, though he did not relish the idea of Mrs. Bennet at Netherfield. His sister and Miss Elizabeth’s mother under one roof could prove to be an explosive combination. To make matters worse, he would have to travel to London shortly after the funeral to purchase the license and have the marriage contracts drawn up. That would take at least a couple of days if he could hurry, but would more likely take four or five before he could be back at Netherfield.

Shaking his head, Bingley closed his eyes for a moment unable to dwell on such thoughts without a certain amount of uneasiness arising with them. Straightening, he allowed his thoughts to turn to the problems at Longbourn. He hoped that Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner had been able to deflect Mrs. Bennet’s and Mr. Collins’ attentions from Miss Elizabeth. Frowning, he thought of how fragile she had appeared since her cousin’s arrival. As he recalled how she had broken down into tears, he also remembered his talk with her in her father’s study shortly after Jane and Mr. Bennet’s death, most particularly how she had blamed herself for surviving. Grimacing, he began to wonder if she still harboured guilt over her sister’s and father’s deaths. He sincerely hoped not, but if she did all the frustration and machinations of her mother and cousin could only be aggravating those feelings as well as her grief and thus slowing her own recovery.

So engrossed was he in his thoughts contemplating the difficulties that lay ahead for both he and Elizabeth Bennet that he was surprised to see that he had arrived at Longbourn.

Dismounting, he was startled to hear a shout from the front door and turned to see Miss Lydia running toward him. He was further surprised when she grabbed his arm and started pulling him to the house talking hurriedly.

“Mr. Bingley, you must come in and stop them! Uncle Gardiner was called away on some tenant business or other that apparently could not wait and since then the whole house is in an uproar5 . You must tell them about your engagement to Lizzy!”

Eyes widening, Bingley stopped and stared at her, stunned at her knowledge, “How did you know about that?”

Biting her lip, she glanced away. “I . . .ah . . . I overheard something, but that is not important right now. Mama is yelling at Lizzy telling her she has to marry Mr. Collins and refuses to listen to anyone6 . Naturally, Lizzy cannot accept because she is already engaged to you, but Mama will not let her get a word in edgewise, so if you tell them, they have to stop.”

Frowning, Bingley tried to keep up with Lydia’s rapid speech as well as maintain his footing as she had again taken hold of his arm with both hands and was pulling him to the house where he could clearly hear shouts and sobs emanating from within.

“Wait a minute. What has happened? Miss Lydia, you must slow down and tell me exactly what has happened this morning?”

Frowning, Lydia bit her lip again and stomped her foot as she crossed her arms, “Well, after Uncle Gardiner had to leave on urgent business – which I think Mama had something to do with – Mama and Mr. Collins cornered Lizzy in the drawing room7 . When she told everyone to leave so that they could have a private conversation, Aunt Gardiner tried to stop it, but Mama propelled her out of the room as soon as she had sent us to our rooms. The next thing I know, Lizzy is sobbing and Mama is shouting at her and calling her selfish6 and that she will have to marry Mr. Collins whether she likes it or not. The yelling and arguments have not stopped since. Please Mr. Bingley, Lizzy is very upset and we need your help. Mama and Mr. Collins will listen to no one.”

During Lydia’s description of events, Bingley’s jaw tightened and he aimed a glare at the drawing room window. As she finished her explanation of the morning’s events, he faced her with a determined look. “Lead me to them, Miss Lydia.”

Satisfied that she finally got her point across, Lydia hurried ahead to open the door to the drawing room. As her hand touched the knob, she winced as a particularly loud shout sprang out of the room. Due to that, she opened the door carefully instead of flinging it open as she had intended. This allowed both her and Bingley to witness part of what had been taking place for the past two hours and it made him livid to see anyone treated so.

Elizabeth stood unaided on her injured ankle in the middle of the room crying as her mother shook a finger in her face and censured her for her lack of family loyalty and selfishness. Mrs. Gardiner struggled unsuccessfully to pull Mrs. Bennet away from the distressed young woman and talk sense into her at the same time. Over to one side, Mary had her arm around Kitty who also had tears streaming down her face as she watched the discord in her family. Mary’s outraged gaze, however, was locked on Mr. Collins who managed to cower at the same time as look down his nose at the situation unfolding in front of him.

As Mrs. Bennet entered into her latest rant, Bingley’s expression hardened.

“Now you will listen to me, Miss Lizzy. Your father allowed you too much leniency in your wild ways, but now I am in charge and I will not allow you to selfishly have your own way6 . I insist that you consider your family’s welfare. Where will we go if you do not marry Mr. Collins? By marrying him you secure all our futures. Are you going to remain selfishly unconcerned for your own mother and sisters? Are you going to fail us as you failed Jane and your father . . .”

Having heard more than enough, Bingley strode into the room purposefully walking up to Elizabeth where he took her hand, trying to give what comfort he could for the moment. Despite this, he saw her turn her head away to hide the tears that her shaking body revealed anyway. Angered further at this sign of distress, he turned to face the suddenly silent Mrs. Bennet and raised an eyebrow, “What may I ask is the meaning of this? Can you not see your daughter is greatly distressed?”

Resenting being addressed so, Mrs. Bennet raised her chin, “What right do you have to barge in here and interfere?”

“I have the right to defend and protect my fiancée.”

The room fell silent as Mrs. Bennet stared at him as her mouth fell open. At the other side of the room, Mary, despite her own surprise, smirked at the now extremely pale and equally wide-eyed Mr. Collins who looked close to passing out.

Mrs. Bennet continued to gape, but managed to get a few words out, “Fia . . . fian . . . fiancée? You say Elizabeth is your fiancée?”

“Indeed.”

Shaking her head, Mrs. Bennet’s ire began to rise again, “That is impossible. You were always interested in Jane, not Lizzy8 . Besides, you cannot be engaged because you would need consent which I will not give. You do not need to be burdened with Lizzy. Jane would have made you such a good wife, but you cannot consider Lizzy as an apt replacement despite being her sister.”

Shocked at her callousness to her daughter and offended at the idea of treating Elizabeth as a replacement for Jane, Bingley glared at Mrs. Bennet, “I can assure you, madam, that I will marry Miss Elizabeth and not due to some misplaced conception that I could simply exchange one sister for another. As for the matter of consent, I do not need yours as I received your husband’s prior to his death.”

“You have no proof!”

“On the contrary, he does.” Everyone turned to see who had spoken and most recognized Dr. Richards as he walked through the door with a grim expression. Ignoring everyone else, he approached Elizabeth, “Miss Elizabeth, you should not be standing on that ankle of yours. You need rest. Come let us find you a seat.”

“Now wait a minute. Lizzy does not move until we straighten this out. How can you say there is proof of an engagement between Mr. Bingley and Lizzy?”

“Because I was there when Mr. Bingley asked for consent as was Mrs. Hill.”

“But . . . but . . . Mr. Collins wants to marry her7. We could stay at Longbourn.”

“Madam, I personally do not care what Mr. Collins wants or where you will or will not live. What I do care about is my patient who should be resting being put through such turmoil not to mention being forced to stand on an injury I stated very clearly needed to be stayed off of as much as possible.”

While her mind tried to wrap around this new development, Mrs. Bennet’s expression was bent on attempting to meld two such contrary feelings as anger at having her plans devastated and glee at the possibility of such a splendid match for one of her daughters despite the current circumstances.

However, her displeasure at having her plans upset as well as her fear of losing her home turned out to have the greater claim on her than any other feeling. Crossing her arms, she raised her chin in defiance, “They cannot marry! I will not allow it!”

Again all eyes turned to the doorway as another voice interrupted. “Thankfully, Dr. Richards is correct and they can marry even without your blessing or consent.” Mr. Gardiner walked over to his open mouthed sister and addressed her further, “I do not like being sent on a wild goose chase just so that you can further your own plans.”

Not willing to give up the argument just yet, Mrs. Bennet actually started to pout, “She is in mourning with the rest of us. She cannot marry.”

“You did not seem to think that an obstacle earlier when you tried to force her to accept Mr. Collins’ proposal7.”

“That was different.”

“Hardly so. Personally, I am glad that my niece will be married soon as it will grant her a certain measure of peace which as I now see she will never receive from certain members of her own family.”

“But what of the gossip, surely people will disapprove. After all, Mr. Bingley was to marry Jane8.”

“I am certain that once my niece and Mr. Bingley prove their marriage sound and the circumstances disclosed that people’s displeasure will diminish greatly. Besides, it does not really matter what people think, what matters is what is good for Elizabeth and Mr. Bingley.”

Wringing her hands as she realized she was fighting a losing battle, Mrs. Bennet collapsed into a chair and wailed, “But . . . but . . . I will not allow it. She cannot marry from here! I will not allow it! She should be willing to help her family stay in their home . . .” As she continued to wail over not getting her way6&9 , Mr. Gardiner shook his head in disgust as he saw just how selfish his sister had become. Grimacing, he turned to see Bingley put his arm around Elizabeth and help her out into the hall where the doctor was whispering to his wife. After quietly asking Mary to take charge of the situation in the drawing room to which she nodded grimly, he followed the others out into the hall.

As soon as Mr. Gardiner closed the door behind him, only somewhat dampening the sounds of his sister’s hysterics, he noted Dr. Richards attending to Elizabeth who now sat on the stairs. Looking at her, he did not like the fatigued, distressed countenance and worried how badly affected she was over the morning’s events.

Catching Bingley’s eye, the young man approached him and after shifting uncomfortably faced him, “Mr. Gardiner, I know this is not exactly appropriate, but I would like to offer Netherfield as a home to Miss Elizabeth and you and Mrs. Gardiner. I do not think that it is wise for Miss Elizabeth to stay here any longer. Any of her sisters who wish to come are welcome as well.”

“Thank you for the kind thought, but I agree with your assessment that it is not exactly appropriate and would not wish to burden your hospitality so much, but I also agree that Elizabeth cannot stay here.”

“Then where can she go to get away from this?”

“I will ask the Lucas’s. They have been close friends of the Bennets for a long time10 and perhaps having a friend like Charlotte to talk to might help.”

“Yes, a close friend would be a comfort right now and it would . . . oh, never mind . . .”

Mr. Gardiner raised an eyebrow, “I am guessing that some of your family at Netherfield do not approve.”

“My sister Caroline is definitely . . . upset . . . but I know I have Hurst’s support.”

“And your other sister?”

“Louisa . . . I am not sure where her loyalties lie at the moment, but she might listen to her husband though she usually sides with Caroline11 .”

“Hmmm . . . all the more reason Lizzy should be taken to a neutral location for the time being . . .” He paused as he noticed the doctor leave Elizabeth and approach them.

Sighing, Dr. Richards pinched the bridge of his nose before addressing them, “Gentlemen, the young lady is extremely distressed and it is doing more harm than good. I believe that she is silently blaming herself for what happened and her mother’s tirade has done much to solidify and intensify those feelings. Have you two considered moving her to some other location until the wedding?”

“Yes, we were just discussing it. I proposed taking her to the Lucas’s.”

Nodding, the Doctor pursed his lips in consideration, “Yes, that would be the best place for her. Miss Lucas is a sensible young woman and I believe that she may be able to alleviate some of Miss Elizabeth’s concerns. I recommend you send someone to inform them of the situation immediately and in the interim pack some of her clothes and have the carriage readied. She should be removed from here as soon as possible.”

Mr. Gardiner nodded, “Yes, I will send Thomas Stone, he will carry the message quickly.” Before anymore could be said, he left to have the stable hand take the message.

The doctor now turned to the young man in front of him, “You did a fine job defending Elizabeth against Mrs. Bennet. Not many young men could have withstood such a tirade under such circumstances.”

“I did nothing more than what needed to be done.”

“No, but you did more than most would have done and I am afraid that there is still more to do. Mr. Bingley I would like you to accompany Miss Elizabeth to Lucas Lodge. Between now and then, you have to talk to her and draw her mind away from what just happened. Normally, I would never have been concerned about Miss Elizabeth as she has always been one of the most resilient people I know, but with the loss of the two people she cares for most and the subsequent events, she is heading for depression. I do not want her to sink too far, for it will be far easier if we stop it here before it gets too much worse.”

“I understand, but I do not know what to say to her. Talking about some things seems wrong, we cannot talk about her sister or father, and all other subjects just . . . I do not know.”

“Just do like you did when you both exited the drawing room and offer what comfort you can. Perhaps you might ask her about how she will feel seeing Charlotte, about having someone to confide in.”

Bingley nodded and agreed. Glancing over at Elizabeth, he saw her leaning her head on her aunt’s shoulder with her eyes closed, tears still staining her face. Walking over to her, he crouched down and took her hand, but she never opened her eyes. Mrs. Gardiner looked at him, her eyes expressing her deep concern.

In the next half-hour, the carriage had been brought to the front door and one small trunk of Elizabeth’s clothes and personal effects loaded. Stone had returned with the Lucas’s eager agreement to help.

During this time, Elizabeth had dozed off as a result of the stress and some medication Dr. Richards gave her for increased pain from her ankle and no one had the heart to wake her. Thus, Bingley found himself carrying her to the carriage where he carefully placed her on the seat. Before he could take his own seat however, he found himself addressed by Mr. Gardiner.

“Mr. Bingley, would you mind very much if I arranged to have the rest of Lizzy’s belongings sent to Netherfield? I think it would be best if she did not have to come back here at all.”

“Absolutely, as soon as Elizabeth is settled at Lucas Lodge, I will go directly to Netherfield and make all the arrangements necessary. You only have to pack her things and I will send the carriage to collect them.”

“Thank you, I will have Mrs. Hill and my wife start immediately.”

“I can help too.” Both men turned to see Lydia standing hesitantly off to the side.

“Do you really want to help?”

The girl nodded vigorously, “I am not close to Lizzy, but she does not deserve to be treated as she has. I know I would not like to be forced into marrying Mr. Collins12 .” She shuddered while making a face that expressed her feelings on that situation more than adequately.

“Alright then, go and talk to your aunt and she will tell you how you can help.”

Lydia nodded and turned and hurried back into the house.

After she was out of sight, the two men spoke quietly about the transportation of Elizabeth’s belongings, finalizing all plans for the move. When they were finished, Bingley gave one final nod to Mr. Gardiner before taking a seat in the carriage next to Elizabeth where he slipped his arm around her so that her head rested on his shoulder as she continued to sleep. Observing her, Bingley noted the dark circles under her eyes and the distress that remained etched into her face even as she slept. Sighing as the carriage started forward, he could not help but wonder when the troubles would end and they both would find some measure of peace.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21; Volume 2 Chapter 1, 12; Volume 3 Chapter 18
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 4; Volume 3 Chapter 16
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6 & 8; Volume 3 Chapter 3 & 18
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 7 & 13
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 20; Volume 3 Chapter 5
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 20
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 19
8 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 3-4, 6, 15, 18
9) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 23
10) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 5
11 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 8,10, & 18
12 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 14

Chapter 11

Posted on 2008-12-20

Sighing, Bingley laid back on his bed with his arm underneath his head as he considered all the events of the day. He blinked tiredly. At least Caroline had the sense to stay away from me. Shaking his head, he stared at the ceiling as he recalled the cold look on his sister’s face when he had arrived with the carriage bearing Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s personal effects. After he had answered her inquiry as to what was going on, Caroline had simply turned on her heel and left, most likely to sulk in her room.

Stretching a little, Bingley allowed himself some small measure of relaxation as he recalled his other sister’s opposite reaction. He had been surprised when Louisa had come up and embraced him, telling him that she wanted to help in any way possible, but he had also been grateful for her stepping into Caroline’s place and arranging for Miss Elizabeth’s possessions to be placed in a room which was to be prepared for her upon her arrival in less than two weeks.

As he closed his eyes, he tried again not to think about the upcoming wedding. It felt like a complete betrayal of his feelings for Jane notwithstanding the promise he had made1 . Turning on his side, Bingley stared into the room wondering how he was possibly going to handle seeing Elizabeth everyday as his wife. Oh, he had no doubt that both he and Miss Elizabeth would attempt to make the situation as easy as possible for each other nevertheless the awkwardness would remain making life difficult.

Closing his eyes again, he pushed away the image of Jane and her sweet loveliness from his mind that had crept in yet again. How could he possibly be fair to Miss Elizabeth when his heart still ached from the loss of her sister.

Sitting up, Bingley worked his jaw in pain and frustration. How am I ever going to get through this? I have no idea how we are going to ever even be comfortable around each other when all we do is remind each other of what we have lost. I wish there was someone I could confide in, bu there is no one I can really talk about this with. Although I am sure Mr. Gardiner would be happy to listen, he already has much to deal with regarding his sister and Mr. Collins. Besides he is Miss Elizabeth’s uncle and she has the right to the comfort of her own family. Hurst has been helpful, but I fear he cannot really offer me any real advice on how to even begin dealing with the more personal aspects of the promise. Moreover, he and Louisa are having their own problems with their marriage. Darcy, why the one time I desperately need your advice did you have to choose to travel to America with you sister2 ?

Frustrated beyond measure with the entire situation as well as the lack of reliable confidants, Bingley stood and started pacing the room. Minutes passed and the hands of the clock moved steadily onward as he continued his repetitive journey to and from the wardrobe and the bed. At last , his eyes fell on his desk as he paused while rubbing his neck. Seeing the blank sheets of paper pushed haphazardly to the side, Bingley’s eyes lit up briefly as he considered his one last alternative.

Quickly stepping over to his desk, he seated himself before pulling over the paper and finding his pen and ink. After dipping the pen and writing out the salutation, Bingley paused with the pen over the paper as he deliberated on how to begin this particular missive. Finally, he set pen to paper.

Boston, America

November -------

Dear Darcy,

Please pardon me if I do away with the usual pleasantries, but I find I must speak to someone on a matter of great consequence with even greater repercussions on my life even if I know you will not read this until after the events have played themselves out. I am sure you remember my cheerful descriptions of Netherfield and the surrounding neighbourhood and more particularly my dwelling on the excellence of certain of my neighbours. Since I last wrote that hope filled letter, circomstances have changed significantly. Only a few days ago, an accident took the life of Miss Jane Bennet and her father and injured her sister, Miss Elizabeth. Before they died however, Mr. Bennet summoned me to Longbourn that I might have a moment with Miss Bennet. Darcy, that moment was one of the hardest in my life in more ways than one. Watching the life drain out of her . . . I cannot describe the pain I felt. Words are not enough. Yet, even as she lay dying, she thought of others and not her own suffering3 . She asked me to do something for her and I could not refuse this one thing. I agreed to and am now engaged to her sister Elizabeth. I know what you are thinking; that I was too hasty in agreeing to such a thing, but Darcy, the reasons to marry her outweigh the objections. First and foremost was that this was the only request I could grant the woman I loved and, secondly, I have seen first hand why she made the appeal in the first place.

My friend, you will be certain to think my compassion has led me to do more than I ought, but if you could have seen the events of yesterday and today you would be more than appalled. The treatment Miss Elizabeth has received at the hands of her own mother and that ridiculous cousin, who by the way is under your aunt, Lady Catherine deBourgh’s, patronage is absolutely atrocious4 . The cousin, a Mr. Collins, now inherits the Bennet’s home due to an entailment on the estate5 and has every intention of throwing them out after the funeral thanks to some of your aunt’s advice. Apparently, that lady, a title I doubt your aunt now deserves, told him that the Bennet ladies should not be cosseted! How can anyone be so cold hearted? I now understand your incessant dread of your yearly visits to her estate and disgust at her overt attempts at making a match between you and her daughter6 .

Ah, I seem to have departed from my intent and I know I am probably not making much sense and left out some details too. Pardon me for this rambling letter, but the last few days have been draining. Let me start again in detailing events for you. After I made my promise, I went directly to Mr. Bennet who gave his immediate consent. Miss Elizabeth and I were at Miss Jane’s bedside when she passed away. We were able to talk a little but much had to wait until her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner arrived the next day. They have been most helpful and understanding. Unfortunately, Mr. Collins – the cousin to whom Longbourn is entailed5 – was due to arrive that same day as part of a prearranged visit. He made his views quite clear as I explained above, but seemed to backpeddle temporarily after speaking with Mrs. Bennet. His and Mrs. Bennet’s actions yesterday evening and this morning made it clear that he would alter his intended course only if he gained the eldest surviving Bennet daughter as a wife7 . Mr. Gardiner and I tried to tell the two of them of the engagement, but were thwarted by the combined effort of the other two until this morning.

I should mention that Mrs. Bennet had taken to her room upon first learning of the accident and had been completely unaware of the engagement not that it made much difference in the end. This morning after I informed my sisters of the engagement – you can easily deduce Caroline’s reaction to the news – I returned to Longbourn to find Miss Elizabeth in pain and greatly distraught due to her cousin’s proposal and her mother’s reproach7&8 . Darcy, you could never have witnessed what I did that day. Her mother was unrelenting and totally selfish. Suffice it to say, what little I did witness was more than enough. I stepped in and with her Uncle Gardiner’s help as well as Doctor Richards who had come to check on Miss Elizabeth’s injuries, we removed her from the house and to the house of some friends until after the wedding.

Now, here comes the part you will undeniable disapprove. One of the requirements of the promise was that we marry within a fortnight, so by the time you receive this letter, Miss Elizabeth will be my wife. Darcy, please pray that we are doing the right thing and that Miss Elizabeth’s and my marriage will eventually be a happy one for we need all the support that you and anyone else is willing to give. Please, Darcy, wish us the best despite the circumstances and haste.

Your friend,
Charles Bingley

Setting the pen down, Bingley looked over the letter and grimaced at the various blots marring the page. Sighing, he set the letter aside satisfied that it would at least convey the essentials to his friend, though less than pleased with it overall, but it would have to do.

Looking into the darkness outside the window behind his desk, Bingley let a lone tear slip down his cheek.

While Charles Bingley was occupied in his letter writing, Elizabeth Bennet sat drinking tea in the room she now shared with Charlotte at Lucas Lodge.

“I do not know what to do. Maybe I should have agreed to marry Mr. Collins. It would keep the peace in the family and Mr. Bingley would not be burdened with me.”

Frowning at her friend, Charlotte set down her cup, “Now this does not sound like the Elizabeth Bennet I know. Normally you would be disgusted with your cousin’s behavior and nothing could have tempted you to even consider marriage to such a man. Why now?”

“Charlotte, Jane and father are dead! My family is now facing eviction from our home5 . Mr. Bingley is burdened with his promise to Jane as am I. He has been most kind to us, but it is not fair to him. He does not deserve to be shackled to the likes of my family.”

“Really, Lizzy! Do you not think that he had already considered that? If he had married Jane1 , which would have been his own choice, he would still be related to them. It was clear that he was already going in that direction, so what should it matter now.” Seeing Elizabeth turn her head away, Charlotte leaned forward and reached out and took her friend’s hand, “Lizzy, you could never be happy with a man like Mr. Collins. His behavior to you and your family has been reprehensible as has, I am sorry to say, your mother’s. Besides, I doubt Mr. Bingley would have allowed you to sacrifice yourself in such a way.”

“What makes you think that?”

“You did not see the black look on his face when he explained to us the full situation at Longbourn. He was positively furious.”

“Why should he be so upset?”

Staring at her friend, Charlotte shook her head at Elizabeth’s uncharacteristic obtuseness, “The man agreed to marry you. He has every reason to be upset at the treatment his fiancée receives.”

“But it is only an arrangement, not because we are in love with each other.”

“What does it matter how the engagement came about? The point is, Mr. Bingley is taking his promise very seriously. He may not be in love with you, but he is already quite protective. I saw his expression when he insisted on carrying you to your room here while you were still out from Dr. Richard’s medicine. The way he carried you . . . he was so careful and protective.”

Charlotte shook her head as she cleared the memory from her mind’s eye. Looking back at her friend, she pursed her lips, “No matter how much you wish things could have been different, no matter what has or will happen, you should be grateful to marry a man like Mr. Bingley.”

Sighing, Elizabeth looked down into her cup, “I know I am grateful for Mr. Bingley’s defense of myself and the protection this engagement has brought me, but I cannot help but feel the injustice in the whole situation. How are we ever going to bare being in each other’s company on a day to day basis when our whole marriage will constantly remind us of how it came to pass? Knowing that whatever duties I perform as mistress of his home should have been performed by my sister . . . Oh, Charlotte, how . . . how can I think of taking Jane’s place?”

Feeling for her friend’s troubled state and understanding the natural fears and concerns swamping the usually vivacious Elizabeth, Charlotte reached over and took her hand, “Lizzy, you are not taking Jane’s place, no one ever could. Whatever happens between you and Mr. Bingley, you must remember that Jane will always have a place, but that place is in the past and you are the present. The past will not change but you both must make use of the present as you both see fit. If you both want a happy future, you must both grieve. Do not let your fears over this arrangement formed by the loss of the two most dear to you to continually cast its shadow over the rest of your life. You may not love him, Lizzy, but you can learn to for Jane’s sake.”

Frowning, Elizabeth looked oddly at her, “What do you mean for Jane’s sake?”

“We both know that Jane always saw the good in every situation or at least tried to3 . I believe that she not only wanted to protect you but see you both happy and I agree with her, but it is ultimately your choice if you will ever be happy in this marriage.”

“That is just the problem, Charlotte. I do not know how.”

“Give it time, Lizzy, give it time.”

Tears welled up in Elizabeth’s eyes as looked down at the cup in her hands. Sighing she set it back down and looked back up at Charlotte, “But how much more pain are we to endure until then?”

The next morning greeted everyone with dark grey storm clouds and a cold wind which suited the mood of those who stood near the two fresh graves in the little cemetery near the church. Dressed in a somber black dress, Elizabeth stood shivering slightly next to Charlotte who had her arm around her providing both emotional and physical support. Ignoring the icy wind that cut through his great coat and tossed his hair to and fro, Bingley stood on the other side of the graves from Elizabeth and allowed the tears to flow freely as the minister spoke. Occasionally, he would glance over at Elizabeth to see how she was faring and was relieved to see her continually surrounded by the Lucas’s and Gardiners. Mrs. Bennet sobbed to herself at the foot of her husband’s grave while Mr. Collins observed with little sign of real regret. Mary, Kitty and Lydia formed their own small group between their elder sister and mother.

Once the service ended, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner quietly said their goodbyes to Elizabeth before escorting Mrs. Bennet and their other three nieces back to Longbourn where they were to finish packing and making arrangements for their possessions to be moved. Mr. Collins had made it clear the evening before that they were to be out of the house by nightfall the next day; he would only allow them to return to ensure their personal possessions were all packed and transported elsewhere, but that they must find other accommodations to live in.

After they left, Bingley sighed as he looked over at Elizabeth being helped back over to the Lucas carriage by Sir William and Charlotte. Saying one last silent goodbye to Jane, he closed his eyes before walking over to Elizabeth. He shivered as he felt a cold burst of wind blow through his great-coat.

Feeling Charlotte squeeze her shoulder, Elizabeth turned to see Bingley approach. Stopping her intent to enter the Lucas carriage, she turned to face him while Sir William excused himself to speak to the driver.

“Miss Bennet.”

“Mr. Bingley.”

Glancing away while turning his hat in his hands, Bingley worked to regain enough composure to speak. Finally looking up, he addressed her quietly, “Miss Elizabeth, I am to ride to London today. I am certain you know for what purpose. If you need anything at all while I am away, please just send word to my brother-in-law Hurst. He and Louisa also asked me to convey their sympathies.”

Feeling acutely uncomfortable, Elizabeth turned her head away as she purposefully ignored his comment as to the reason for his journey. “I will be sure to thank them, but are you sure you are to travel today on horseback in this weather?”

“I will be fine. I have ridden in worse. Besides I would prefer to ride over sitting in a carriage, a carriage is . . .”

“Too confining?”

“Yes.”

Silence ensued between them as they avoided each other’s eyes.

Finally, Bingley spoke, “If you will pardon me, I will be leaving now. I would like to complete as much of my journey as possible before this storm hits.”

“I hope you will have a safe journey to and from London.”

“Thank you. Goodbye.”

“Goodbye.”

With a quick bow, Bingley put his hat on and walked off to his horse and after a brief glance back was on his way. Shivering with another cold gust of air, Elizabeth allowed herself to be helped into the Lucas’s carriage where she worried her lip as she considered what the gentleman’s return from Town meant for them both. As uncertainty again tried to overwhelm her, Elizabeth sighed and looked out the window hoping that at least the gentleman would be granted a dry ride to London.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 3-4, 6, 15, 18
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 4; Volume 2 Chapter 12
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21, 23; Volume 2 Chapter 1, 17; Volume 3 Chapter 7
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13-15, 19; Volume 2 Chapter 6
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 7, 13
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 16; Volume 2 Chapter 7, 10
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13, 15, 17-19
8 ) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 20