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Chapter 14

Posted on 2009-01-17

Weary after a long day's journey followed by a difficult discussion, Bingley stretched out in bed at Netherfield. He found himself staring at the ceiling contemplating the past week instead of falling asleep and taking the rest he desperately needed. His journey to London had been mostly dry and the drenching downpour held off only until he reached the outskirts of the city. He had spent that evening reviewing everything he had wished to discuss with his attorney while drying off and warming up at his brother-in-law's house1 . Thankfully, the rain had not continued into the next day and his visit to Barclay Jackson, his family's long-time attorney, took place first thing that morning. Despite expressing his curiosity with a single raised eyebrow, Jackson had asked him no questions over his requests and the settlement papers were quickly drawn up and a special license purchased in short order.

Rolling over and stretching, Bingley recalled the other little piece of business he had undertaken. While in the city, he had availed himself of his attorney's help in locating a suitable establishment for his future mother and sisters-in-law as he could not accept the idea that the Gardiners would suffer the continuous responsibility for Mrs. Bennet. It had taken time as they had chosen not to restrict their search to Hertfordshire, but, as he had hoped, they finally found a small house in Meryton where the Bennets could live comfortably and still remain close enough to make use of their present friends and acquaintances.

Grimacing, Bingley closed his eyes as he realized that also put him within the sphere of imminent visitation2 , but he quickly figured that he could deal with that when the time came as he had more important matters to consider.

Opening his eyes, Bingley rolled out of bed and walked over to the window resting his forearm on the frame. Staring out at the pitch black darkness outside, he recalled how he had upon his return to Netherfield gone immediately to the local inn to speak to Mr. Gardiner about the settlement papers and the purchase of the house in Meryton. He had had to wait a good half-hour before the gentleman could extricate himself from his sister as Mrs. Bennet continued to demand attention with her histrionics3 much to everyone's annoyance including the innkeeper. When Mr. Gardiner managed to finally remove himself from her presence long enough to look over all the papers, the gentleman had found no fault at all with any of the settlement papers, but had been a little upset at his purchase of the house. Nevertheless, Mr. Gardiner understood the intent and quickly satisfied himself by insisting on providing for whatever else his sister and nieces needed which was assented to without difficulty.

Remembering the last subject discussed between he and Mr. Gardiner, Bingley bit his lip. As he now had everything required and the deadline for the wedding was fast approaching, they had set a date two days hence thus providing him with some time to rest from his journey and both he and Elizabeth with time to prepare.

Shifting uncomfortably, Bingley turned away from the window as he swallowed hard. While he accepted the reasons for marrying Miss Elizabeth Bennet, he felt suddenly nervous about the idea that they would be virtually alone at Netherfield after the ceremony. He had assumed that either his brother-in-law and Louisa or the Gardiners would be present during such an awkward time but had learned from both parties that evening that both groups would be heading to London shortly after the wedding ceremony.

Resorting to pacing his room in order to excise some of the nervous energy that had built up, Bingley continued to consider this new situation. He understood that the Gardiners needed to return to tend to their children who were currently staying with one of their neighbors and could not fault them for leaving despite the ease it could have created for both him and Elizabeth. At the same time, he found himself upset and grateful to his brother-in-law and Louisa; upset that they were leaving when their presence, like the Gardiners, would be a comfort, and gratitude at their willingness to take Caroline and thus remove a source of concern and irritation.

With the fatigue of a long day, hard trip and difficult issues bearing down on him, Bingley threw himself in the chair by his desk and promptly rested his head on his folded arms. His last thoughts before sleep took him were over how was he and Elizabeth supposed to handle being actually alone and how would they react to each other.

While Bingley was thus occupied, Elizabeth stood at the window in the room she still shared with Charlotte Lucas and like her fiancι stared at the darkness beyond the glass. Her uncle had come, although it had been quite late, and informed her of Bingley's return from Town as well as the issues they had discussed.

Resting her hands on the sill to prevent their shaking, Elizabeth contemplated the events to take place two days hence and what their affect on all their lives would be.

So engrossed was she in her thoughts that she never heard the door open or Charlotte's entrance. Upon Mr. Gardiner's arrival and subsequent conversation with his niece, Charlotte had retreated to her father's study and continued reading for an hour after that gentleman's departure knowing her friend would desire a little privacy. However, when she saw Elizabeth standing by the window, she frowned as she comprehended that she had been there for quite some time.

"Lizzy, you should be in bed. You know Dr. Richards said you should still keep off that foot as much as possible for at least another few days."

"I am alright, Charlotte. I simply needed to look at something besides these four walls."

Coming up behind her friend, Charlotte peered out the window. "You mean you could not have sat in the chair right next to you and still looked out? Besides, what does it matter what you stared at as you cannot see anything out there at this time of night. It is pitch black out and there is not even a sliver of moonlight. Come now, you need to rest."

"I will go to bed in a minute."

Pursing her lips, she glared at Elizabeth, "No, you will go to bed now. I know you Lizzy. If you say you will only stay a minute, it will be half the night particularly when you are upset. Now, do I have to call my mother and sister for help or are you going to cooperate?"

Elizabeth sighed and turned weary eyes toward her friend, "I will go right now. I can manage on my own."

"Very well, but remember, I intend to talk to you in the morning. You cannot simply keep all those feelings inside and I know you have only revealed a small, very small, portion of what you are feeling to me."

"In few days, perhaps."

Charlotte shook her head in exasperation, "In a few days, you will be married and you need to talk before then. We will talk tomorrow or if you do not want to talk to me, I will send for your Aunt Gardiner. You have to talk to one of us."

With that Charlotte went to bed and was satisfied to hear Elizabeth doing the same. She only hoped that her friend would sleep peacefully tonight as she had noted how fitfully Elizabeth had slept over the passed week.

Charlotte's threat to send for Mrs. Gardiner had not been an idle one and first thing the next morning she had sent out a missive while Elizabeth slept. So when she had finally awoken, Elizabeth was surprised to see her aunt sitting in a chair near the bed waiting with tea and some food so that they could talk.

After they ate a little and spent some time simply chatting, Mrs. Gardiner coaxed her niece into talking about her concerns and worries. As the words poured out of Elizabeth, she found herself relaxing as some of the more tenuous fears dissolved under her aunt's comforting efforts. One particular worry disappeared quickly as Mrs. Gardiner reassured her niece that she did not need to be anxious about it and explained the reasons for that.

Eventually, there was little left to say and Mrs. Gardiner took her leave after expressing a few more comforting words to her niece.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 21
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 19
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 1,21, 23; Volume 3 Chapter 5

Chapter 15

Posted on 2009-01-31

When the day of the wedding arrived, the tension surrounding it continued unabated leaving the bride and groom in a state of constant unease.

At Netherfield, Bingley stood at the breakfast room window staring out. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath in an attempt to maintain a certain level of composure; unfortunately, the momentary peace the action brought was disrupted by his sister's piercing voice as she continued in her unrelenting criticism of his marriage and his intended's family1 . Clenching his jaw, he turned around to see Caroline flailing her hands as she enumerated her reasons for him not to go to the Church. Aggravated and angry, Bingley glared at her before interrupting her tirade.

"Caroline, please stop! Your opinions are not wanted and will not prevent my marriage. You may not like it, but remember that I will not allow you to insult my future wife. If you say one word of disparagement to her today, I will ensure that you do not attend the season."

Paused in mid-motion, Caroline stared at her brother open-mouthed. "You would not stop me from seeing our friends or attending their parties!"

"You mean your friends and I certainly would do so. And if you think that is not enough to curtail your behavior today, I will inform Darcy of your behavior toward my new wife and you are well aware of Darcy's opinions regarding any situation where a gentleman's honour is engaged."

Seeing his sister's sudden pallor, Bingley knew he had just gained her cooperation for the day. Caroline would never risk anything that might discredit her in front of his friend2 . Shaking his head, he walked away from her and out to the carriage wishing that this momentary submission would last longer than the day and that he could somehow convince his sister of Darcy's total disinterest in her or her hopes.

As he approached the carriage after putting on his coat, Bingley saw Hurst waiting by the door. His brother-in-law reached out and put a hand on his arm giving him a tight smile, "Today is the day."

"Yes, it is."

"I know you are nervous, but everything will work out eventually. You and Miss Elizabeth are sensible and perceptive people."

"I know."

"But . . ."

"Sometimes I doubt this is the right thing to do."

"Hmmm . . . We have discussed this before as I recall. Could you live with breaking your word? Could you live with another what-if?"

Bingley looked back at the house. "No."

"Then you are doing the right thing."

"But . . ."

"No! No buts. I know what you are going to say. What if this or what if that. I know, I thought the same when I married Louisa."

"What?"

"Well, not exactly the same as we actually had some choice and loved each other at the time, but still I wondered if by marrying me she might not be giving up something better. However, I will tell you something that an old friend told me - How do you know that things could not go worse if you back out now? Now for me the answer was the same as the first - I did not know. However, you know that it will be worse for her if you let your fears finally have power over you."

Closing his eyes, Bingley sighed, "I know and I cannot justify this sudden escalation in doubt and apprehension. It . . . I still do not know how Miss Elizabeth and I are going to . . . well . . . manage together."

"Try talking."

"About what?"

"About anything. You will not be able to move forward if you two do not even try to communicate. Now, where are your sisters? If they do not get here soon, we will be late."

Just at that moment, Louisa came out pulling on her sister's arm and nodded to her husband and brother. Neither gentleman missed her rolling her eyes followed by a quick glance at Caroline nor the latter's sour expression. After helping the ladies into the carriage, the gentlemen shared a look of mild exasperation and got in too.

A half-hour later found both the bride and groom standing before the minister with their respective parties looking on. Charlotte, who had agreed to act as Elizabeth's bridesmaid, stood off to the side watching her friend for any sign of distress or that her ankle was again hurting as the injured joint had suffered a setback the day before. However, Charlotte smiled to herself when she observed Bingley step closer to her friend and allow her to lean on his arm to take the weight off her ankle part way through the ceremony. Observing her friend more closely, she took in the blue gown with the only adornment being a small silver necklace Mr. Bennet had given Elizabeth on her last birthday. Sighing to herself, Charlotte recalled the struggle she and Mrs. Gardiner had had in convincing Elizabeth to where a dress other than black. Her friend had only conceded when Mrs. Gardiner had suggested the dress Jane had picked out for Elizabeth the previous Christmas.

Glancing back at the rest of the room, Charlotte raised an eyebrow as she noted the disagreeable expression on Miss Bingley's face and the serious, yet content look on Mrs. Hurst's face.

After returning her attention to the minister for a few moments, Charlotte took a quick look behind her at her friend's family. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner sat with mixed sad and pleased expressions while Lydia and Catherine simply looked serious though the younger of the two had an almost satisfied look in her eye. Charlotte only felt a little sadness for Mary's absence as the girl had felt it necessary to remain behind and attend her mother at their new home in order to assure everyone that Mrs. Bennet would be incapable of causing any mischief during the ceremony as she remained as steadfastly against the union as she ever had and continued to harbour hope that she could convince Elizabeth to marry Mr. Collins instead3 .

Hearing her friend speak her vows quietly, Charlotte gave her attention back to the ceremony after sharing a small look with her own mother and father who had likewise been invited due to the long friendship between the families and the help they provided at a much needed time4 .

Soon, the ceremony ended and everyone but one gave their heartfelt and wholehearted although subdued congratulations before moving to leave for Netherfield and the modest wedding breakfast Mrs. Hurst had arranged. However, as Elizabeth went to take a step forward, she let out a gasp of pain and leaned more on Bingley's arm. Charlotte watched as he dipped his head down and whispered to Elizabeth who hesitated for only a moment before nodding. Suppressing a smile, Charlotte nodded her approval as she further observed him carefully pick Elizabeth up and carry her out to the carriage. Stopping in the doorway, she paused for a moment to watch her friend and her new husband enter their carriage.

"I think they will be very happy together someday."

Charlotte looked over her shoulder at Dr. Richards who had approached so quietly she had not heard him. She smiled as she recalled Elizabeth's request that he and Mrs. Hill also attend and her own happiness at hearing that Mr. Bingley had also thought to request their attendance.

"Indeed. If they can get past the awkwardness and their own fears and concerns, I think they will have more happiness than they can currently imagine."

"You have been a good friend to her."

Blushing slightly, she looked back up at him and noted his blue eyes and the way the touch of gray in his otherwise dark hair made him look more distinguished. "I did only what I could."

He did not respond as his eyes followed the path of the retreating carriage. After a moment, he returned his gaze to Charlotte, "May I escort you to your parents' carriage?"

Smiling, Charlotte nodded, "Yes, thank you." Taking his offered arm, Charlotte felt a small flutter as they approached her parents.

Once gathered at Netherfield, the entire party withdrew to the breakfast parlour where the servants had set everything out during their absence according to Mrs. Hurst's instructions. Despite it being a relatively simple affair, no one could fault the taste and the arrangements she had made. Noting the thought his sister had obviously taken with every detail, Bingley nodded to her in thanks as she sat too far away for him to express it more thoroughly and she smiled in return before turning to converse with Miss Catherine sitting next to her.

The meal continued calmly with quiet conversations among those at the table. Although the meal was in honour of their marriage, Bingley and Elizabeth spoke little having some stilted conversation with each other. At one point when Bingley's attention was called by Mr. Gardiner who sat next to him, Elizabeth found herself idly moving the food around her plate as she contemplated the day. Momentarily glancing around the table, her attention was seized by the sight of Charlotte and Dr. Richards holding their own hushed conversation together. Elizabeth raised an eyebrow and allowed a small smile as she noted how intent each was on their discussion.

Eventually, much to the chagrin of the newly married couple, the meal came to an end and with it's end came the time for their companions to depart.

Dr. Richards and Mrs. Hill took their leave first both having to return to their duties and were quickly followed by the Lucas's. Knowing her friend's anxiety had just increased substantially, Charlotte embraced Elizabeth and whispered a few words of advice before following her parents out. Next, the Gardiners and the youngest Miss Bennets approached as they prepared to leave. Catherine and Lydia both embraced their sister with Catherine quietly repeating Mary's own congratulations and regrets at not attending the ceremony or breakfast. Lydia only smiled as she took her sister's good hand and squeezed it encouragingly.

Smiling at her niece, Mrs. Gardiner likewise embraced her, "Oh, Lizzy, I am so sorry we have to leave you so soon."

"I understand, Aunt. I would not wish for you to neglect caring for your own children only to stay with me. I will be fine with Mr. Bingley."

"I know you will. My only concern is that you both will seek solitary pursuits in an attempt to avoid the awkwardness."

"I assure you, Aunt, I will try not to allow myself to do so."

"That is all I ask. Please, be happy together."

They embraced again before Mr. Gardiner who had been talking with his new nephew came over and hugged his niece, mindful of her arm still held in a sling and whispered his own encouragement before he and his wife left for London and their own family stopping only long enough to drop Lydia and Kitty at their new home.

Finally, Hurst and Louisa approached followed by a sullen Caroline. Miss Bingley managed to paste a grim version of a smile on her face as she offered her congratulations once more to her brother and Elizabeth before retreating to the awaiting carriage which had been loaded while they were at the breakfast. Hurst and Louisa shared a look of consternation and resignation with a good deal of determination as well.

Smiling at his brother and new sister, Hurst addressed them, "Well it is time for us to leave, but first let me assure you both that we are very pleased with your marriage and look forward to seeing you both again soon."

Moving forward, he took Elizabeth's hand and enclosed it in both of his, "No matter what some might say, know that you are a welcome addition to this family."

Smiling a little, Elizabeth looked up, "Thank you. Your assurance is much appreciated."

Hurst nodded before releasing her hand and moving to speak to his brother-in-law while his wife approached Elizabeth.

Smiling tentatively, Louisa observed her new sister before taking the hand her husband had just relinquished, "I know I have not always been kind to you and please accept my deep apology for my behavior5 . We . . . we have not had much opportunity to speak since before . . . the accident, but I hope you know that I like my husband welcome you as a sister and hope that we might have the opportunity to get to know each other better."

Feeling a great deal of relief at this vocalization of acceptance, Elizabeth smiled as tears welled up in her eyes, "I would be honoured to know you better."

"Thank you. Perhaps we could correspond while I am in London?"

"I would like that very much."

"Good, though I should warn you that I have a penchant for describing in detail the fashions I observe in Town."

Noting the sparkle in her new sister's eye, Elizabeth laughed slightly, "Every inch of lace and brocade?"

"Absolutely, but let us not forget the silks and the satins too."

Both smiled and Elizabeth replied, "I look forward to it."

As the conversation lapsed into silence, Louisa suddenly moved forward and embraced Elizabeth briefly before stepping back.

"I will write as soon as we are in London."

"I will await the first letter."

After a few more words were said and Louisa congratulated her brother, the Hursts exited the room and headed toward their carriage leaving the newly married couple alone for the first time.

Both stood in the breakfast room awkwardly, uncertain of what to say until Elizabeth winced as she shifted her weight on her injured ankle.

"Mi . . . Eli . . Your ankle is still bothering you."

Despite the fact it was not a question, Elizabeth nodded.

"Would you like some help returning to a chair or would you prefer the drawing room?"

"Actually, I would prefer the drawing room, but . . ."

"But you are worried your ankle will not support you all the way there?"

"Yes."

"If you wish, I could carry you."

"I do not wish to burden you with the need to carry me one place or another. You have already done so twice today and I feel . . . it is too much to ask to continue so."

Bingley shook his head kindly, "It is no burden. If it makes you feel better, I had to carry Caroline a few years ago when she had twisted her ankle. She was about fourteen then and I wound up carrying her from one room to another for a month even though the doctor said it would only take a week or so to heal. So, do not think that you are any trouble. If I can get through a month of being at my sister's beck and call, I think I can easily manage whatever time it takes for your ankle to heal. I know you enjoy walking and wish to return to those pursuits as soon as possible."

Looking at him closely, Elizabeth bit her lip as she considered his words and even allowed her lips to twitch upward as she imagined a beleaguered sixteen year old Bingley carrying his over-demanding younger sister, before nodding, "Thank you, I . . . umm . . . I think I would like to request your help in getting to the drawing room."

Smiling slightly, Bingley gently picked her up again, continuously mindful of both her injured ankle and arm, and started walking toward the drawing room thankful that his brother-in-law had left the breakfast room door open. While he was walking, he glanced at Elizabeth in some surprise when she addressed him.

"How did you manage to get out of carrying your sister from place to place?"

Bingley blushed a little as he looked away and grinned at the memory, "I carried her out to the stable where I set her down and promptly left without a word to her after giving orders to the servants that they should not carry her back to the house. Suffice it to say, she recovered the use of her ankle rather quickly."

Laughing a little, Elizabeth smiled, "I can imagine so. How long did it take her to realize that you were not coming back and that no one would come and carry her in?"

"Oh she fumed for about half an hour until she got tired of sitting in the stable and walked in of her own accord. Our father was rather amused with my remedy to her behavior. Normally, he would have been displeased with my action as he was rather strict, but Caroline's conduct had worn on even his patience and he was simply pleased to have that means of disrupting the household put to an end."

"Why might your father have been displeased with what you did? It is not like she was hurt or anything and she was the one acting poorly."

Sighing, Bingley paused as he frowned, "My father was rather strict regarding behavior to my sisters and mother. He always insisted that no matter the instigation, I was to always be respectful. It was never difficult with my mother or Louisa, but Caroline . . . well, I think you can imagine."

"Oh."

They fell silent after this and Bingley continued on to the drawing room where he discovered a small problem. The door was shut and he required both of his arms to hold Elizabeth. Observing the consternation on his face, Elizabeth tried to stop the giggle that rose in her, but could not quiet stifle it.

"Is there something funny?"

"Only the look on your face. Why do you not simply set me down and open the door?"

"I would prefer not to take the chance of bumping your injured ankle any more than necessary."

"Well, unless you plan to either stand here and hold me up or carry me around in search of a servant to open the door, I do not think you have much choice."

Sighing, he realized she was right and did as she suggested, picking her up once the door was opened. As they entered, he scanned the room for a good spot for them to sit.

"Do you have any preference as to where to sit?"

"Perhaps near the window."

Nodding, he carried her over to the settee sitting under the larger of the two windows the room supported.

After seating her there, Bingley frowned as he noticed how uncomfortable the side of the settee would be for her if she were to turn and place her ankle up on it. "Would you like a few cushions so that you can lean back more comfortably?"

"Yes, thank you."

Quickly, he gathered the cushions on the other couch and brought them back where Elizabeth took them and adjusted them to her liking.

"If you would like more, I can have some brought."

"No these are fine, thank you."

Silence fell over them once again. Uncertain of what to do now, Bingley sat in the chair nearest the foot of the settee. Finally out of sheer frustration, he ran his hands through his hair before looking up at her, "Miss . . . ah . . . Elizabeth . . . umm . . . I do not want . . . I mean I want to make things as little awkward as possible between us, but it is difficult to know just how to do so. My brother, or I should say our, brother-in-law Hurst suggested that we simply talk, but I admit I do not know quite what would be a good topic."

Biting her lip, Elizabeth looked down at her lap as she contemplated his words. When she did look up, she hesitated before speaking, "Perhaps we should start with what to call each other? I confess I do not know your preference."

"Nor I yours. Charles is my Christian name, but I would not be offended if you would prefer to address me as Mr. Bingley."

Feeling a little awkward, she glanced up at him, "Charles . . . ummm . . . I would prefer to be called Elizabeth or Lizzy."

"Elizabeth."

Silence threatened to engulf the room as each took a moment to adjust to the new forms of address. However, as the silence stretched out causing greater discomfort for each, Elizabeth spoke up.

"Perhaps we might talk about more stories like the one you relayed earlier. It might be a good way to pass the time."

"You mean the one about Caroline in the stable?"

"Yes."

Both were well-aware that the suggestion was limited to stories from his family and not the Bennets as that would only lead to mentioning Jane or Mr. Bennet neither of which either he or Elizabeth were ready to discuss. "Alright, ah . . ." he paused as he tried to recall something interesting, preferably humorous, in his family and smiled when one came to mind, "Well, there was one incident at Caroline's coming out ball."

Glancing up, he noted her raised eyebrows and intrigued expression and continued, "Our aunt and uncle had come to visit expressly for the purposing of attending and had brought their children. As it happened, the night of the ball was going quite well and Caroline was thoroughly pleased with all the attention, however it would not continue so. My then seven year old cousin James had a fondness for frogs and toads and could be depended on to sneak one or two into his room to make a pet out of it. Well, as it happened, his newest acquisition managed to get away from him and somehow make its way into the dining room where it somehow got onto the table and plopped right into the middle of the soup of a young man my sister had deemed acceptable enough to take an interest in and had been attempting to charm."

Looking over at Elizabeth, Bingley could not help but smile as well when he saw her hand over her mouth trying not to laugh too hard.

"How did the young man react?"

"Well, his manners throughout the whole situation were impeccable; however he later declined all invitations to our home after that incident."

"Poor Caroline."

"Do not feel too sorry for her. Once she realizes a gentleman is out of her reach, she quickly changes her direction and looks for someone else she deems acceptable."

"Oh."

Silence threatened to take hold again, but was prevented by Elizabeth's asking after other stories and they spent the rest of the day discussing them and gradually branched out to a few other neutral topics continuing their conversation through lunch and dinner, both of which they enjoyed in the drawing room so that it would not be necessary for Elizabeth to move from one room to another.

However, as pleasant as the day turned out, anxiety set in as it drew to a close and it came time to retire. When Elizabeth failed to suppress a yawn, Bingley sent word for the maid Louisa had chosen for Elizabeth to go to Elizabeth's room and make sure a fire was lit and that everything was ready for her new mistress.

Seeing Elizabeth's observation, Bingley returned to her and sat down, "I hope you do not think me presumptuous in ordering things done. It will take me awhile to get used to the different situation."

"I understand and I am actually grateful. I have much to adjust to as well. As much as I have enjoyed our conversation, I am rather tired. Do you think I might be shown to my room now?"

"Of course. Do you mind my carrying you? It is, unfortunately, up on the second floor."

Blushing, Elizabeth shook her head, "I do not mind. I know I could not climb the stairs myself until my ankle heals."

Shifting uncomfortably, Bingley nodded, "Alright . . . umm . . . well, I will take you there now."

As careful as ever, Bingley picked her up and carried her up the flight of steps and down the halls careful to show her the way. When he reached her room, he tapped the door with the toe of his shoe causing the maid inside to come and open the door. Seeing a large chair near the bed, he took Elizabeth to it and set her down.

Feeling acutely uncomfortable and very aware of the maid's attentive presence, Bingley cleared his throat, "I hope everything will be to your liking. Louisa arranged your things for you so that it would be ready for your arrival. If there is something about the room you would like changed, please let me know and I will arrange for it."

As discomfited as he, Elizabeth had kept her gaze on her lap and only upon his words, glanced quickly about the room, "No, everything looks very nice."

"Well, then, may I wish you good night."

After hearing her own good night, Bingley strode from the room and down the hall to his own room, where he entered and leaned against the door as he closed it breathing heavily as he felt a myriad of emotions wash over him.

Staring at the door and his hand resting upon the surface, he slid to the floor as tears began to well up in his eyes. Whispering words echoed later in the room next door, Bingley succumbed to the strain of fending off the grief, uncertainty, and even the slightest bit of guilt that had slipped into his mind. "Oh, Jane, I hope you knew what you were asking, for I do not know how we can get through this. Oh, how I miss you Jane!"

That night, both rooms witnessed the silent tears of their occupants as they continued their struggle against the grief that was never far from the surface.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6, 8, 10; Volume 2 Chapter 3; Volume 3 Chapter 3
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 6, 8, 10-11; Volume 3 Chapter 3
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 15, 17, 19-20
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 5
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 4, 6, 8, 10, 18

Chapter 16

Posted on 2009-03-07

Rolling onto his back, Bingley flung an arm over his face in an attempt to block out the sunlight creeping through the blinds. When that did not work, he rolled over onto his opposite side and was about to settle back into sleep when the memories of the previous day poured into his semi-conscious mind. His eyes snapped open as he flew up into a sitting position and focused his gaze first on the illuminated curtain covered window and then the clock. Seeing the time, Bingley let out a frustrated sigh as he hurried out of bed muttering to himself. "Elizabeth's first full day in her new home and I sleep in till eleven. What a way to make her feel welcome and comfortable!"

As he dressed, Bingley recalled the cause for his late morning and quickly pushed down the rising swell of grief that had so overwhelmed him the evening before. I may still be hurting, but that is no reason to leave Elizabeth to fend for herself today. Why could not I have awoken earlier?! She no doubt feels every bit of awkwardness and wonders at the meaning of my absence. Bingley paused as he closed his eyes, I cannot deny my pain, that would be unfair to us both, but I must apologize and somehow explain my tardiness.

Sighing, Bingley looked in the mirror as he finished and noted the dark circles under his eyes. Well, at least that provides evidence for my explanation.

Turning, he exited his room and walked down the hall pausing in front of Elizabeth's room. Biting his lower lip, he suddenly wondered whether or not she was still in her room or possibly already downstairs. Feeling somehow like an intruder by approaching her room first, he instead continued on downstairs intent on asking her location.

As he descended the stairs, Bingley noticed Elizabeth's maid, who was carrying a tray toward the staircase, startle when she looked up and saw him.

"Good morning, Betsey. I see that . . . .ahem . . . Mrs. Bingley is awake and still in her room. . . . Is she feeling well?"

"Good morning, sir. Yes, sir, she is only tired. She only awoke about an hour or so ago and requested a tray. Would you like me to inform her of anything, sir?"

Frowning slightly, he thought for a moment before nodding. "Simply let her know that anytime she wishes to come down to let me know and I will come and help her."

"Yes, sir."

He moved more to the side of the stairway to allow them to pass by each other as they each continued on his way and only paused when he heard her speak. Turning around, he saw the rather hesitant expression on her face.

"Go ahead, what is it you wished to say?"

"Begging your pardon, sir. But you might want to speak to Mr. Brent, he has been acting a little nervous lately."

Bingley suppressed a small smile at the thought of his valet who had a tendency to become overanxious when not allowed to do his job which had been often in the past two weeks. "Thank you for mentioning that. I will speak to him today."

A small relieved smile touched the maid's face, "Thank you, sir."

He nodded and continued on toward the breakfast room as he considered how to calm Mr. Brent's fears of losing his job. Bingley shook his head; his valet had only come to work for him a week before he had taken Netherfield and had since found numerous occasions where he was not needed. He could not fault the man for his desire to do the job he had been hired for, but he would have to learn to deal with his employer's idiosynchrasies. Cocking his head to one side as he glanced out a window, he silently wondered if Elizabeth would find similar difficulties with her maid as Betsey was Mr. Brent's sister.

Standing at the window of the breakfast room sipping a cup of tea, Bingley wracked his brain trying to think of what to talk about with Elizabeth. If only they could go outside, it would help lessen some of their disquiet and provide subjects for conversation; however, as he stared out, he noted how the tops of the trees bent and appeared to shiver with a gust of wind and quickly dismissed the idea.

Turning around he glanced at the clock and observed its hands' locations. Three quarters of an hour had passed since his brief conversation with Elizabeth's maid and he began to wonder if Elizabeth was planning on remaining in her room all day.

Annoyed with that irrational thought, he shook his head. Her ankle and arm are still injured and it must take more time to eat and prepare for the day. Besides, she is still grieving too, of that I am certain. Besides, even if she stayed in her room all day, it does not mean that she is avoiding me anymore than my sleeping in was an attempt to avoid her.

Striding back to the table, Bingley set his cup down sparing only fleeting look at his plate containing his half-eaten breakfast. He was not in the mood to eat.

Just as he was about to pull out his chair, the door opened and Betsey entered and bobbed a curtsey. "Begging your pardon sir, but Mrs. Bingley is ready to come down whenever it is convenient for you sir."

"Thank you, Betsey. Please tell her I will be up directly."

"Yes, sir."

When the door closed behind the maid, Bingley let out a breath as he endeavored to alleviate his own embarrassment at his earlier thoughts. Abandoning his unwanted meal, he turned and made his way up to Elizabeth's room.

As he approached her door, Bingley took a deep breath in an effort to acquire some level of composure. Knocking on the door, he heard a quiet, Come in.

Entering, Bingley quickly noted that Elizabeth was again wearing one of her black gowns that she like her sisters had purchased shortly after the accident. The custom of wearing black for such long periods after the loss of a family member was one he could never comprehend as it seemed to only act as a constant reminder to what that individual had lost.

Elizabeth gave him a small almost apologetic smile, "Mr. . . ah . . . Charles, ummm, I hope I did not pull you away from anything important?"

"No, not at all. Please remember, you do not need to feel that you are a burden. I have no urgent business that needs my attention, so you do not need to worry about interrupting anything."

"I am afraid it will take me awhile to get used to the idea."

"You simply prefer your independence1 ."

She blushed a little, but smiled, "Yes. I have always been exceedingly self-reliant1 ."

"Well then we should ensure that your ankle is given the opportunity to heal that it needs so that you will regain its use that much sooner and that means my carrying you for the time being."

"Very well then. May I ask your help getting down to the drawing room?"

"Of course."

Walking over to Elizabeth, Bingley picked her up easily and turned toward the door which was currently being held open by the maid.

"Betsey, could you also go ahead to the drawing room and open the door for us?"

"Yes, sir."

With no further delay, Bingley carried Elizabeth out the door and headed toward the drawing room with the maid hurrying on ahead.

As they continued on, Elizabeth found herself looking around at anything and everything and was surprised when she heard Bingley speak.

"I confess that yesterday when we were discussing what to call each other I had not thought of Mr. Charles, but that will do just as well I think."

Blushing at her own misstep earlier, Elizabeth could not help but laugh at his teasing her for it.

Bingley smiled as she laughed pleased to make a start toward a possibly less awkward day.

"I had almost forgotten our agreement of what to call each other and am glad you do not fault me for that blunder."

"How could I fault you for that? I have little doubt I will make plenty of my own. Just ask Louisa when you write to her, she can tell you how often I manage to put my own foot in my mouth."

Raising an eyebrow, Elizabeth turned her head to look at him with an almost amused look, "You think it wise to give me carte blanche to inquire of your sister of your habits and past blunders?"

"You think that would be unwise?"

"Well, it would give me quite an unparalleled resource of various particulars to tease you with in return."

"Ah, I see. Well, that is not so terrible as Louisa knows if she reveals too much, I have some stories about her own gaffes with which to retaliate. Besides, I am sure your Uncle Gardiner would not leave me completely without defense and would take pity on me by revealing some of your own blunders."

"Oh really?"

"Really."

"We shall see then shant we?"

As they had reached the drawing room, Bingley did not reply and only nodded to the maid as they entered.

Taking the nod as a sign of dismissal, Betsey closed the door and left to resume her other duties.

Hearing the door shut, Bingley continued on to the settee Elizabeth chose the previous day and set her on it and then seated himself as well. Both sat each glancing around the room with growing disquiet as the silence engulfed the room.

Frustrated with the current situation and hoping to make this day easier than the one before, Bingley glanced around in an effort to think of some subject for conversation when his eyes fell on a book sitting on a stand.

"I recall you like to read2 . Are there any particular novels or books you enjoy most?"

"I do enjoy the past time. Admittedly, some of my favorites are some of Shakespeare's plays, particularly Much Ado About Nothing and Taming of the Shrew, though I do not have much fondness for Romeo and Juliet."

"Most of the ladies of my sisters and my acquaintance seem to prefer that play over most others. What is it about Romeo and Juliet you do not like?"

Elizabeth bit her lip and shifted uncomfortably and her sudden return to uneasiness caused Bingley to want to kick himself for making her feel so. When she finally answered quietly, she did not raise her eyes but kept them firmly on her entwined hands. "The hopelessness of the characters at the end. Their taking their own lives at the discovery of the other's death is incomprehensible to me3. "

Groaning inwardly, Bingley lowered his head silently chastising himself for inadvertently bringing up the very subject he had wanted to avoid. He had hoped to wait a few days to allow them both to adjust to each other before bringing up such a sensitive subject and he had just botched that whole plan. Sighing, he quickly recognized that there was no point in attempting to change the subject and instead decided to deal with it more directly and considered her words. Inhaling slightly as his mind hit on their meaning, he looked up and licked his lips before hesitantly replying, "You believe that even with the loss of someone you love, a person must not allow that loss to dominate them for the rest of their lives, but instead move on, am I correct?"

"Yes."

"Even now?"

"Even now."

Silence pervaded the room as each worked through their own painful thoughts. Bingley closed his eyes as he fought down the sudden wave of grief that welled up. Shaking his head, he opened his eyes and pursed his lips immediately growing angry with himself as he saw the tears slipping down her face. How could I have been so careless as to bring that subject up now? I know it was unintentional, but . . . urgh! . . . I should have discussed the weather or some other less dangerous subject, but no I just had to mention books!

At the same time, Elizabeth closed her eyes as she considered her own words, words that had been discussed many times with both her father and Jane over the years. The anguish that thought brought up was potent, but the idea behind the thought was too significant to ignore. She and her father and sister had agreed that a person mourned, but they also moved on and did not wallow in misery; a person had to allow him or herself to heal from the wound the loss created and not constantly pick at the emotional scab.

Looking up a little, she noted the distress inherent in Bingley's position with his head in his hands. Although she knew she was not yet ready, nor could be, to fully let go of her grief, she knew she had to talk about it a little. It was not fair to either of them to hide their pain from the other and only increase their suffering. If they were to heal, she knew she had to speak no matter the pain accompanying it.

Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth let it out slowly before turning her eyes toward him. "Charles, I am sorry if this sudden conversation distresses you, but I am not sorry it came up."

He looked up from his hands with a look of mild surprise, "I worried more of its affect on you. After all, I am the one that stumbled on to it."

Elizabeth gave him a small mirthless smile, "Then it seems we are perhaps trying too hard not to hurt the other."

He nodded, "Perhaps we need to worry less about bringing up a painful subject and concentrate more on handling it when it does."

"I agree."

Both lapsed back into silence as neither knew what else to say. Glancing at Elizabeth, Bingley noted the tears still glistening in her eyes.

"Elizabeth, are you unwell? May I fetch you something?"

"No, no. I will be fine. I was only thinking how difficult it is to think of my father and Jane being gone. I keep expecting to see them walk through the door and think I hear my father's amused laughter and Jane's sweet voice." She looked at him and swallowed, "It seems impossible sometimes to think I will never hear or see them again."

Leaning forward, Bingley reached out and took her hand and squeezed it, "I know. I know exactly how you feel."

The next few days passed with the newlyweds feeling their way through each day. Whenever one felt overcome by heartache, the other would be there to listen or share his or her own troubled feelings. However, the days did not pass constantly enshrouded in melancholy emotions, but each enjoyed its own moments of lightness. Bingley and Elizabeth continued to follow their friends' and family's advice and talked often about a great variety of subjects. They also spent some time reading together despite the limited selection the Netherfield library provided and both came to a prompt agreement that it would need expanding2 . It was during this time where they discussed books that Elizabeth discovered just how well read her husband actually was despite his admission that he read very little in the past few years2 . When she questioned the obvious disparity in his knowledge versus the evidence of the neglected library and his own admission, he explained that his mother had been the reader in the family and always encouraged her children; however, when she died, his father had gotten rid of all her books as they were painful reminders of the wife he had lost.

By Wednesday, Dr. Richards called on them to check on Elizabeth's ankle which he proceeded to inform them was healing quite well and that she could now begin walking on it as long as she took great care and did not walk far.

On the day following the restoration of some of her walking independence1 , Elizabeth received her first letter from Louisa Hurst and was pleasantly surprised at its thickness. Letters also arrived for both of them from the Gardiners as well as a few other bits of business correspondence for Bingley. Instead of opening their missives at the breakfast table, both hurried their meal somewhat before adjourning to the drawing room where each could read and reply immediately if they chose.

While Bingley quickly looked over the items of business he received, Elizabeth opened her letter from Louisa.

London

My dear new sister Elizabeth,

I apologize I did not write as soon as I had promised. My only excuse is that as soon as we arrived in London, my other sister Caroline promised our attendance at several events. Milton and I were unable to excuse ourselves without being rude and were forced to attend. Well, at least they gave me a great deal to write to you about . . .

The subsequent three pages - which were broken in such a way as to denote each addition being added at different times - detailed the goings on at the various dinners and parties they had attended including the countless fashions displayed by the attendees at each locale before returning to a more personal format.

Now that I have exhausted my descriptions of our time since our return to London, let me finally ask what I have been longing to this whole long letter. Please tell me soon how you and my brother are fairing. Are you both comfortable with each other? Are either of you having any difficulties whatsoever? Please say you are at least talking to each other. I have been praying you two will encounter few impediments to becoming more than simply at ease with one another.

Oh dear, I must close now and send this off – We have just discovered that Caroline has promised our attendance at another party despite our clear direction to her to cease her interference. I will write more later, but am forced to send this as is without finishing my inquiries. Perhaps you may anticipate them in your letter.

Your new sister,
Louisa Hurst

P.S. I thought I should add that Milton is considering threatening to lock Caroline in her room with only bread and water at mealtimes if she persists in agreeing to invitations on our behalf without first consulting us.

Elizabeth's lips twitched upward as she read the last and could well imagine the horrified look on Caroline's face at being forced to stay in her room like a petulant and misbehaving child. Deciding that she should answer it immediately, Elizabeth walked over to the table at the side of the room and pulled out all the necessary supplies. However, she found herself frowning shortly after she began. Since her right arm's injury, she had been forced to learn to use her left hand and the product of her slow work displeased her as she noted the blotches and mis-formed letters in her first two lines. Reaching to dip the quill into the inkwell, she gasped when she nearly tipped the ink over.

Looking up from his own correspondence, Bingley noted her pinched brow and the frustrated glare she aimed at the inkwell. "Is something wrong?"

She sighed, "I wanted to reply to Louisa's letter, but am finding it difficult to write with my left hand."

He thought silently for a moment before looking back over at her, "Perhaps I could help. If you are not adverse to the idea, you could dictate what you would like written and I could write the letter for you."

"All right ."

Putting down his own letters, he found another chair and joined her at the table where he proceeded to copy down everything Elizabeth said. However, partway through the letter, Elizabeth glanced at the paper and frowned again. Hearing her voice stop, Bingley looked up and took in her expression.

"Did I write something incorrectly?"

"No, but I wonder if this will be much better than my own attempt. Do you think your sister will be able to read it?"

Looking back down at the letter, he observed the numerous blotches marring it and sighed4 . "No, I suppose not, but then again as my sister, she has had much practice in deciphering my scribbling." Pausing, he shook his head without looking up. "I am sorry, Elizabeth. I will rewrite it carefully, if you like."

Bingley turned his head in astonishment when he heard a series of giggles. Seeing Elizabeth covering her mouth with her left hand and the small sparkle in her eye, he had to wonder what she thought was so funny. As if she had read his thoughts, she tried to stifle her giggles as she spoke.

"Perhaps we may want to add a note not to expect too many long letters until my arm is healed. Otherwise, they might be forced to hire an interpreter in order to make sense of our letters."

Her laughter and good humour were catching and Bingley laughed too. "That may be a very good idea. After all, we would not wish to shock Louisa too much by my developing better penmanship."

"No, that would be a true disaster."

Both smiled at each other through the banter as they felt at ease with one another at that moment.

Soon, they turned back to the letter and finished it and Bingley took time to recopy it more neatly so that his sister would be able to actually understand the content of the letter. Once that was finished, they read their letters from the Gardiners and wrote a joint letter back to them before taking up another of their discussions.

While all this was taking place in Hertfordshire, England, the Darcys were enjoying their stay across the Atlantic in Boston. Darcy had decided upon witnessing his sister's growing depression after the Ramsgate incident5 to remove her from England entirely to permit her an opportunity to recover without constant reminders throwing her into a deeper state of melancholy. Recalling the open invitation one of his Cambridge5 friends, a Mr. John Ridgeworth, had given him to visit he and his family at their home in Boston, Darcy wrote to said friend who replied in short order and the trip was settled.

Now, several months later, Darcy was happy to have travelled so far not only for Georgiana, but for himself. He had not realized how much he missed his friend or his more carefree days at Cambridge5 . Sitting at the breakfast table with his sister, Mr. and Mrs. Ridgeworth and Mrs. Ridgeworth's sister - Miss Wentworth - he felt more at ease than he had in a long time. Looking over at Georgiana, he saw her look up at him with a wide smile which made him feel very happy indeed.

As Darcy contemplated all this, the mail arrived with several letters for both he and his sister. While glancing through his pile, he noted the frown marring Georgiana's face.

"Georgiana? What is wrong?"

"Oh nothing is wrong. It is . . . well, I received a letter from Miss Bingley."

"What is wrong with that? I thought you had agreed to correspond with her."

"Only because I could see no way to politely refuse. It was her suggestion after all."

"Even so, you should still read her letter with a little less displeasure. I am sure she means well."

"But her letters are usually filled with such cutting remarks about others particularly ladies6 . It makes me wonder what she says about me when I am not present."

"There is nothing bad she could ever say about you dearest."

A sudden coughing fit further down the table caused both to look down at Miss Wentworth who calmly set her tea cup down before glancing briefly at him with a rather amused look before returning her attention to her own correspondence.

Frowning, Darcy noted the lady's reaction and decided to discover just what that look meant. "Miss Wentworth, you seem to have a different opinion?"

Facing him, Miss Wentworth smiled, "Only that you seem to underestimate your sister's discernment on this matter."

"Really? How so?"

"Simply that I doubt this Miss Bingley, though I have never met the lady, would voluntarily find anything wrong with your sister though she seems to have little trouble expressing her dissatisfaction with everyone else."

"I do not understand your meaning."

Closing her eyes, Miss Wentworth sighed before refocusing her gaze on Darcy, "My meaning is this: This Miss Bingley is most likely hoping to use whatever friendship she can generate between herself and your sister to draw your attention as well as an offer7 ."

"No, Miss Bingley knows I have no interest in that direction."

Frustrated with his obvious obtuseness over the issue, Miss Wentworth picked up her cup to sip her tea muttering sarcastically, "Does she really?"

Satisfied that he had made his point when he saw her return to her own letter, Darcy turned back to his sister to see her shifting uncomfortably. "Georgiana?"

"Umm, Fitzwilliam, I . . . I do not think you will like what I have to say."

Reaching over, Darcy took her hand, "Nothing you could say would upset me. Please tell me what distresses you."

Biting her lip, Georgiana looked away as she gathered her courage before looking back at her brother, "You should listen to Miss Wentworth as I also think that Miss Bingley is unaware of your disinterest8 ."

"What do you mean? I have never shown her an ounce more consideration than that of my friend's sister."

"It appears that that is more than enough to encourage her."

"How do you know?"

"In every letter she always asks about you, finds numerous ways to discuss you and anything involving you and asks me frequently in the same letter to pass on her compliments. It happens in every letter."

Sitting perfectly still, Darcy stared at her dumbfounded. After a few moments he regained his voice, "You mean she expects a proposal?"

"I do not know if expects is the right word, but she defiantly desires it8 ."

Darcy sat back shaking his head, "This is incredible. I never once encouraged her, nor have given any indication that I would pursue her. I had thought her intelligent enough to realize that."

At this point his friend laughed and interrupted, "Darcy, my friend, you of all people should understand what the attraction a grand estate and a large income is to many of the female populace of the ton. Why should it be any different with Miss Bingley? You know the only way to not encourage a woman who is determined to have you is to either completely ignore her or out and out insult her and even then those might not work."

Sighing, Darcy rubbed his forehead with his fingertips, "You are right. I guess I had hoped that if she had entertained any such thoughts, that my absence for the last few months might have encouraged her to look elsewhere."

Snorting, Mr. Ridgeworth shook his head, "With the owner of Pemberley still up for grabs?"

The comment earned the gentleman a half-hearted swat from his wife, "Edward behave yourself. I am sorry Mr. Darcy, it seems my husband has decided cynicism is the order of the day."

A small smile quirked Darcy's lips upward, "It is quite alright, Mrs. Ridgeworth. I am well acquainted with your husband's particular brand of humor. He demonstrated it often to all his acquaintance at Cambridge."

This produced a chuckle from his friend who grinned at him, "Yes, and you were not far behind in expressing your brand of wit either."

This response resulted in a short conversation recalling some of those very instances until Mr. Ridgeworth glanced at the clock and sighed.

"As much as I would like to continue recollecting such pleasant times, I have some business I must attend to. Please excuse me."

As he stood, his wife smiled at her company before standing as well, "I am sorry to say, I too have some things to see to."

After a few more words were exchanged, the Ridgeworths departed leaving the remaining three to look over their letters in peace and quiet. Once his friend and his wife were gone, Darcy looked back to his own pile and recollected Bingley's letter. As he opened it, he glanced over at his sister and noted that she had put aside Miss Bingley's letter in favor of one from their Aunt Fitzwilliam not that he could blame her.

Unfolding the letter, he started to peruse it when his eyes widened and his mouth went dry. Extremely taken aback, Darcy returned to the beginning of the letter and started to read slowly taking in everything his friend had related about the situation he now found himself in.

When he finished, Darcy set the letter down and closed his eyes as he fought his swirling emotions not the least of which was anger.

"Brother, are you all right? You look so pale. Have you received bad news?"

Looking at his sister, he managed a grim smile, "I am well, Georgiana. Yes, I have received some . . . interesting news from Bingley. It seems he is to be married . . . or," he glanced back at the letter and determined the date, "I should say is married now."

"Why that is wonderful news! But, why do you seem so upset over it?"

Darcy shook his head, "I am not upset, only shocked. It is also a little more complicated." Glancing down the table at Miss Wentworth who had looked up from her own letters at Georgiana's exclamation, he paused, "Perhaps, we should discuss this elsewhere."

"No, if you two would like to discuss some private issues your friend has written to you about, I will leave." Miss Wentworth stood and started gathering her correspondence before Darcy had the chance to reply.

Standing, Darcy addressed her, "Please, I did not mean . . . that is . . . It is not that . . ."

Raising her eyebrow, Miss Wentworth turned her face to him, "I fully understand your desire to discuss your friend's business in private rather than in the presence of those who have never met the gentleman. It is his business and as his friend you naturally wish to maintain a certain level of discretion regarding his confidences. I am not the least bit upset. Please excuse me as I will take this opportunity to reply to my own letters while you and Georgiana discuss whatever it is you need to. Good day."

With that, she swept out of the room before he could reply leaving him feel just a little disgruntled at being set aside so easily despite his appreciation for her quick comprehension.

Shaking himself, he sat back down and faced his sister and took her hands, "It seems Bingley has found himself entangled in another family's problems."

"What do you mean?"

"Remember how I mentioned in his last letter that he held an interest for a young lady of his acquaintance?"

"Yes."

"Well, it seems that there was an accident in which the young lady and her father where killed."

Tears sprung to the young woman's eyes as her hand flew to her mouth, "Oh no! But . . . but . . . then who did he marry so soon and why?"

"Let me read his letter to you and it will explain all."

As he read aloud, Darcy felt his own emotions rise again particularly when he got to the passage about his own aunt. Admittedly, Aunt Catherine can be overbearing and demanding9 , but how can she be that callous! I never imagined that she could be capable of that degree of heartlessness.

His thoughts and reading were then disrupted by his sister's outburst, "Fitzwilliam, how could she? How could she tell Mr. Collins to . . . to throw them out like that? Oh, that poor family! To think of losing one so loved only to be thrown out of their home so soon!"

"Georgiana, if you are too distressed by this, I will stop reading now."

"No, no, please finish reading. I will be fine."

"As you wish." Darcy took a deep breath and then continued to read aloud while watching his sister concernedly. Although, he could see her increased distress, he also noted that she did not seem overwhelmed by it, instead feeling disturbed at what she heard.

"Oh, Fitzwilliam. How could her own mother do that to her? Particularly after she learned of her daughter's engagement to someone like Mr. Bingley? How could her mother object?"

"I do not know, dear, however, I would estimate it had more to do with losing her home than anything else."

His sister continued to wipe tears from her eyes with her handkerchief, but said nothing as the idea of a house of any sort putting precedence over a family member was completely foreign to her.

Darcy leaned forward rubbing his face with his hands and put his elbows on the table resting his chin on his hands.

Closing his eyes, Darcy sighed as he let his mind wander over the news again. Bingley, I hope you know what you are about for this will affect everything in your life from now on. I know nothing really of the Bennet's family background, are they a good connection for you? Can you be happy in such a marriage? You are a very compassionate man, my friend, but is this move worth it? Is she worth it?

His thoughts were disrupted when Georgiana called for his attention. Looking up, he saw her biting her lower lip.

"Fitzwilliam, are you displeased with Mr. Bingley's sudden marriage?"

Pausing, Darcy gathered his thoughts before shaking his head, "I am more concerned for him than displeased. I would not wish to see him unhappy in such a match, but as I truly know little of the lady I cannot form an opinion on that subject." Looking away, his eye caught on to his sister's discarded pile of letters. "Perhaps Miss Bingley wrote of this situation."

The look his sister gave him would have made him laugh under ordinary circumstances, she very clearly questioned his intelligence if he could consider using Miss Bingley's letter as a source of accurate information.

Holding up his hand to ward off her doubtful reply, he shook his head again, "I know from what you said earlier that she will not be objective in her relating the story of what happened, but perhaps we might glean a few shreds of truth from it."

Georgiana nodded, and promptly opened her letter scanning through it a deepening frown marring her forehead the further she read. "It seems she holds a very ill opinion of Miss Elizabeth Bennet, I mean, Mrs. Bingley10 . All she does is criticize her and her family, calling them fortune hunters and berating their low standing in society."

"May I see the letter." After she handed it to him, he perused it carefully marking in his mind the parts he thought were fact. Darcy grimaced at the sheer amount of spiteful and unfeeling comments littering the letter and he seriously considered forbidding the lady from continuing her correspondence with his sister not desiring Miss Bingley to have any influence over her.

Returning his mind to the issue at hand, Darcy pursed his lips, "If what Miss Bingley says here about the family's connections to trade and their lack of substantial dowries is true, it is unfortunate, but not impossible11 . It will make it more difficult for Bingley to advance in society particularly with his own roots in trade12 , but those same roots make this a tolerable match. It would have been better if the lady had had a larger dowry, but Bingley has more than enough which he should be able to make grow with the right investments and a good estate once he has found one that is."

"Then you are going to support him in this, are you not?"

Looking up from the letter, he nodded, "Yes, I will give him whatever support I can. I can respect the promise he gave and his carrying it out."

"Like when you promised Papa when he was dying that you would not allow yourself to be coerced into marrying cousin Anne13 ?"

"Something like that, though not exactly the same."

"Will we return to England then? Surely, they will need all their friends' support now."

Darcy sighed, "I wish we could, dear, but I have several business transactions that require my presence here for the next month. I will not be able to arrange for our return sooner."

"I understand. I only feel sorry for them. This must be a very difficult time for them."

"Of that I have no doubt, but I know Bingley will come through this with or without us there. However, we will write to them offering our support and so on."

"Do you think they will be happy?"

Darcy stared at the windows for a few minutes before replying quietly, "That I do not know, but I sincerely hope so for their sakes."

References:

Chapter 17

Posted on 2009-04-04

Over the next three weeks, the tension between Bingley and Elizabeth continued to dissipate allowing the couple to feel more at ease with each other. In addition to their many discussions, they now added their joint efforts at letter writing – as they had enjoyed their first attempt greatly – as well as the occasional walk though the cold weather precluded anything much longer than a stroll through the now barren gardens near the house. As a result, the two found themselves developing a fond and steady friendship which each appreciated deeply.

However, both felt the sudden rush of depression as the Christmas holiday approached bringing with it the memories of happier times with those they had lost. Unfortunately, neither the Gardiners who were needed by their children and some business concerns of Mr. Gardiner's nor the Hursts who wanted to spare the couple Caroline's presence on this difficult holiday could come. In addition to their absences, Mrs. Bennet's meddling and numerous nervous fits prevented Elizabeth's sisters from any activities at Netherfield. Nevertheless, Bingley and Elizabeth found themselves invited to Lucas Lodge for Christmas dinner. Despite their initial hesitance and after much proding from Charlotte and Sir William, they accepted. The cheerful environment of Lucas Lodge proved an excellent distraction for the couple from their more depressing thoughts. The presence of a certain Doctor Richards and his attentions to Charlotte caused Elizabeth to feel even happier at the thought of her friend's future happiness and provided much fodder for teasing said friend who only managed to blush and smile. However happy she was at her own prospects, Charlotte did not miss observing the changes in Elizabeth and Bingley and felt a great deal of relief and happiness for them.

It was not long after the Christmas celebration at Lucas Lodge that others began remarking on the encouraging changes in the young couple with a certain satisfaction when they saw them either attending Church or when they visited Meryton usually to stop at the bookshop. However, not everyone was pleased with this positive turn and quickly determined to make those very displeased thoughts known to the healing couple.

Elizabeth sat in the drawing room re-reading some of her letters though she deferred writing her replies until Bingley returned from an estate matter that had called him away for a few hours that morning. Smiling, Elizabeth laughed as she read Louisa's latest amusing missive describing the outlandish ensemble of a plum colored silk gown with green trim and a matching set of ostrich feathers in the headdress of a young woman who Louisa had seen at a ball held by one of the Hursts' friends.

Feeling in very good spirits, Elizabeth started to read another letter when she heard a disturbance in the hallway. Quickly putting the letters away, she stood and started toward the door when it opened and the last person she expected walked in looking as upset as she had the last time she had seen her.

Mrs. Bennet stood silent for a moment as she looked around before settling her spiteful gaze on her daughter. "Well, I hope you are happy, Elizabeth. You certainly have done well for yourself, ursurping Jane's position1 ."

"Mother, I . . ."

"Oh, do not bother to say anything. Thanks to you we also lost Longbourn! Our home! Thanks to you it is going to go to ruin. How would your father feel knowing that not only that terrible cousin of his now owns it2 but that one of those silly Miss Longs will be mistress of it as well. It should have been you Miss Lizzy. We should be living there still, but no, Miss High-and-Mighty Elizabeth, you just had to have it your way5!"

Despite the small amount of hurt she felt at her mother's harangue, Elizabeth was genuinely confused at this particular bit of local gossip. "Mama, I cannot understand you. Are you meaning to say that one of the Miss Longs is engaged to Mr. Collins?"

"How can you pretend not to know? It is all over Meryton. Oh how can I stand to face that nasty Mrs. Long and have her hold it over my head that her niece will be mistress of Longbourn 3 ! It is all your fault, Lizzy!"

"Pardon me Madam, but it is hardly my fault."

"Oh yes it is. If you had not refused Mr. Collins 4 , we could be living there still."

"As I recall, I was already engaged by that time, so there was nothing else I could do."

"You could have broken that other engagement."

"No, I could not madam."

"Yes, you could. If you had any compassion for me, your poor dear mother, you would have! But no, you had to have it your own way. Your father gave you too much independence, young lady. You have no respect for me."

"Mama, I do not see how any of this is my fault. When he learned of my engagement, why did Mr. Collins not consider my other sisters?" Elizabeth winced. Although it was a valid question, she did not wish him on any of her sisters after the kindness they had shown her since the accident.

"He chose you! You should have been honored to have him ask for you of his own volition and not because he was constrained by some promise!"

"That is hardly a reason to be honored by his most unwanted attention. Mama, I could never have accepted a man who did not once consider my feelings and could use our home as a means of manipulating me or any of my sisters into accepting him. There could be no happiness in such an arrangement."

"Happiness does not matter! Besides, who are you to talk about happiness? You accepted that silly promise your sister coerced out of you."

"True, I did. Yet I knew I could trust Jane and Mr. Bingley. Since we gave Jane our word, he has proved himself an excellent man always considering my feelings even when he himself was hurting deeply! Not to mention that he also arranged for your new home. How can you even compare the two?"

"We could have stayed in our own home, nothing needed to change if you had accepted your cousin."

"Nothing need change? Mama, everything changed when Papa and Jane died. Accepting Mr. Collins would have been a terrible mistake."

At that, Mrs. Bennet let out a wail and started dabbing at her eyes with her handkerchief, "If only it had been Jane who lived, she would have been a dutiful daughter and done as her mother told her! Instead I was stuck with my willful, inconsiderate, selfish daughter who thinks of no one but herself! 5"

Elizabeth paled at her mother's statement. Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked down and struggled against the pain of her mother's ultimate rejection.

Both turned suddenly when they heard a noise at the door and were astonished at seeing a very angry Charles Bingley standing in the door still wearing his somewhat damp greatcoat. Scowling at his mother-in-law, Bingley strode across the room and took Elizabeth's hand. When she looked away, he placed his finger under her chin and raised her head though she still refused to meet his eyes. Grimacing, he squeezed her hand and wrapped his arm around her shoulders as he turned to face the intruder with a hard stare.

"May I ask why you come to our home uninvited and accost and insult my wife?"

Mrs. Bennet spluttered for a moment before she raised her chin defiantly, "She is my daughter and I have the right to speak to her any way I want."

Bingley's jaw worked as he struggled to keep back a more unacceptable retort before grinding out, "Mrs. Bennet as you are my mother-in-law you deserve a certain amount of respect; however, I will not tolerate any misbehavior toward my wife. She has done no wrong nor harmed you in any way. Simply because she chose to honor her promise, does not make her selfish. Rather it makes her the opposite. Now, I must ask you to leave. I presume by the state of your clothes and the fact that I did not see any carriage or horse when I arrived home that you walked."

When he did not receive any response except another defiant look, Bingley continued in a highly controlled voice, "I see. You may wait here while I have the carriage readied and when it is a servant will return to direct you to it and the coachman and footman will see you safely returned to your home in Meryton. Good day, Mrs. Bennet."

With that, Bingley led the still much distressed Elizabeth out of the room. Concerned by her return to silence, Bingley started to take her to a nearby parlor where they could talk in private. Before they could go too far however, he heard some noise coming from the main foyer and three feminine voices addressing a footman. This seemed to break Elizabeth out of her daze and, after they glanced curiously at each other, both hurried to the entrance hall where they were met by three extremely distraught Miss Bennets. Lydia turned from the footman she had been speaking rapidly to while Mary sagged tiredly against Kitty who noted Bingley and Elizabeth's arrival first.

"Oh, Lizzy, we are so sorry! Mama spoke to you already did she not? We have tried to keep an eye on her, but she somehow got away from us today. We all thought the other was looking after her and only when Lydia could not find her did we realize that she left. Oh, Lizzy, we are so, so sorry!"

Although still hurt over her mother's comments, Elizabeth felt deeply for her sisters at that moment realizing what they must have endured for the past four weeks. Another realization quickly struck as she noted the state of her sisters' clothes, "Did you three walk all the way here?"

Lydia nodded, "More or less. We would have run if we could. We hoped to either stop Mama from getting here or at least arrive first and warn you."

Bingley grimaced as he turned to glare in the direction of the drawing room while Elizabeth started directing her sisters in the direction of the nearest unoccupied parlor. After making a few quick arrangements to have the carriage readied, Bingley joined them quickly noting the strain on Elizabeth's face as she listened to her sisters apologize over and over for not keeping their mother away.

"Mary, Kitty, Lydia, please! This is not your fault. Mama has always been somewhat difficult when she chooses to be. This is my fault. I should have been there to help you as your older sister."

Mary sighed and shook her head, "No, Elizabeth. Your presence could have only made things worse. She has become vindictive, Lizzy, and there is no excuse for it. Besides, you suffered more acutely from the loss of Papa and Jane than any of us as you were closest to both and you are newly married. You did not need Mama's spitefulness too."

Just then a maid walked in with the blankets Elizabeth had called for which were promptly wrapped around the three shivering young ladies while the maid left to bring the tea.

Observing his new sisters more carefully, Bingley frowned recalling the light sprinkle that had started on his return to Netherfield, "You walked here in the rain?"

Lydia shrugged, "Not really, it only started to mizzle after we were almost here."

"Yet, you three are drenched. You cannot go home like this."

"We will be fine once we warm up a little, if you will allow us the use of the carriage to return to Meryton."

"No, you may not use the carriage today. After that long walk, you will stay here for the night at least."

The three girls chorused their reluctance, but Lizzy's interruption silenced them.

"Yes, you will stay. After all you have done for us and me in particular, you cannot refuse me this. We can offer you this small respite and enjoy your company at the same time. One of the maids can go with the carriage conveying Mama back to Meryton to collect some of your things. Assuming of course that the carriage has not already left?" Elizabeth glanced over at Bingley.

"I doubt it, but I will go now and inform the coachman and find Mrs. Grey as she will know which maid to send."

Elizabeth nodded at the mention of their very efficient housekeeper. "And I will have rooms prepared for you and find something dry for the three of you to change into while we wait. Stay here by the fire, the tea will be along shortly. Drink it, it will help warm you."

After her sisters' expressed their thanks, Elizabeth and Bingley left the room to handle the particulars they had mentioned, but as he was about to turn off in a different direction, he felt Elizabeth's hand on his arm. Looking back, he observed the grateful expression on her face.

"Thank you."

He reached over and squeezed her hand gently, "It is nothing. They are your sisters and have put up with much for your – our – sakes. Nothing less could be done and I am also sure that you – we – will enjoy their company. I know you have missed having them near."

Tears touched her eyes and she smiled slightly, "Nevertheless, thank you. Now, I must go and see to finding something dry."

She hurried off and he watched her go before recalling his own errand and quickly set off to ensure he made it before the carriage left.

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