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To hope means to be ready at every moment for that which is not yet born, and yet not become desperate if there is no birth in our lifetime.
~ Erich Fromm
Much as she'd like to stay with her brother and his new wife, the prospect of staying with a favourite cousin and the man she believed she loved was too inviting. A reply was sent to Christy, with Georgiana's acceptance.
Her brother had told her that as a young woman, she didn't always have to ask for his permission, but she did anyway. Darcy was a little upset to be losing his baby sister to Court, signifying she was a child no longer, but he found that when Georgiana was not present, Lizzy and he could act just as they had done on their honeymoon. Lizzy made sure he was well aware of this fact. But he didn't tell Georgiana yet, about the birds & the bees &c. She was still unmarried, and too young to hear about such things.
Georgiana was going to come out this season. She was going to be staying with her cousin and her guardian, not that far away from her brother's townhouse, where no doubt she would spend some of her time. The milliner and mantuamaker in Lambton had created a few pieces for Mademoiselle Darcy, but more were required, to be purchased when in London. When Georgiana had tried one gown on, she felt so grown up. For now, she wore, instead of a neck to floor length gown, one that showed..... more of her. She felt underdressed, but was assured this was all the crack!.
The prices, of course, meant little to a Darcy, so Georgiana was always dressed in the best. Now was no exception. It was to Georgiana's advantage that she had a preference for the elegant but simplistic, and never decked herself up like a Sultana, as some protegees were wont to be. Georgiana would not have more than one set of the family jewels clasped about her neck at one time - it was tacky with more.
In this way, with beginning preparations for Georgiana's come-out, did the Darcy's spend their winter. Lady Shellwood visited, and was found to be an excellent source of information to Georgiana about just what happened in the season, though she had not really had much of a part in yet. Her wealth of knowledge on the alteration of gowns was quite helpful, and she was thrilled to be of assistance. Many an hour did she spend with Georgiana, leafing through pages of the latest fashion magazines. But they weren't that helpful, as invariably the girls laughed their way through the faces, without much attention to anything except the expressions and poses (which were some of them so unbelievable it made them terribly amusing).
Georgiana was due to be picked up by Christabel on the morning of March the fifth, and so in the time before that, Georgiana waited, but the time was quickly approaching.
Finally the day of departure came, and Georgiana was giddy with excitement. Her trousseau was packed, her farewells close to being given, and Georgiana could not eat, so she sat herself down at her precious pianoforte instead. For how long would she be parted from it? Most likely several months. Both the Darcy's and Matlock's had instruments in London, but even they could not compare with this treasure.
Georgiana was in such spirits she considered playing Handel's Hallelujah chorus, but then decided against it. She didn't want Lizzy and William to think she couldn't wait to get out of her sight, because although that was almost how she felt, it wasn't polite to express such thoughts.
Eventually Georgiana saw a carriage in the distance, which her fine eye discerned bore a crest, and she eagerly skipped down the steps.
It was strange to think that just eighteen months ago Georgiana would not have expressed such delight - her situation she believed to be too melancholy. But now, since William's marriage, the sun had begun to return to her life, and she felt far happier than she had done previously.
She was, of course, still shy, and always would be, most probably, but she was more at ease with herself and with her companions. Amongst total strangers she had yet to overcome her extreme fear and shyness, but elsewhere, she was in a fine way to being more the happy Georgiana she had once been.
Though she was more mature now, but still not so wise as to make her kept from all foibles and mistakes. However, she had grown up much since Ramsgate. Then, she had been an innocent, foolish child. Now, she was a little more world-wise young woman. She hoped that the memory of Ramsgate would vanish one day, but it still throbbed inside. Not largely or painfully, just a slight, ebbing way that wouldn't disappear.
But all thoughts of Ramsgate were absolutely wrenched from her mind as she greeted her cousin, and embraced her. "Christy! How have you been?"
"Georgiana! As ever!"
"How was Rosings?"
"Do you really want to know?"
"Oh aye! Was Lady Catherine in as bad a temper as we supposed her to be?"
"Oh no."
"No?"
Christy grinned. "Worse!"
Georgiana could not help but smile. "And Anne?"
"Is suffering. I really wish we could get her out of Rosings. It would do her the world of good. Lady Catherine's presence is, I am absolutely certain, the contributing factor to her ill health. You and I know she makes a show of it so she does not have to stay with her mother so long in the evenings etc., but I believe she's not pretending so much anymore. She really is getting worse."
"Is there not anything we can do?"
"Dearest, there is not a thing you could do - you know Lady Catherine's sentiments towards you at present, because of that letter. But, if only we could get Anne to London..."
"How on earth could you manage that? And Anne alone? Pigs would fly sooner, I fear."
"No easy task, indeed! Unless... Lady Catherine became ill.... something, say... contagious."
"How would she manage that?"
"Good question. But surely Richard might have an idea? He's always coming up with strange ideas."
"Where is he?"
"In London already. He's likely to be busy with his regiment, so it will be you and I for the most part. But if Anne comes... there would be her too."
"Oh, do let us see if she can come! I haven't seen her in so long, and I really do miss her!"
Georgiana and Christy had not even started their journey yet, and they began to think they had better set off if they were to reach _______ by evening. So Georgiana said her goodbyes, and promised to visit Lizy and William when they came to town.
Directly as they left, the conversation between cousins continued. "If Anne was to come, we could be presented together! I'm sure I wouldn't be half so nervous if she was there too!"
"The more we talk of it, the more enamoured of the scheme I become. But we'll have to speak to Richard first."
"What about your parents?"
"Papa is not in full health, and said going down to London would do his gout no good, and Mama is to stay with him. Lady Nortonly will chaperone us if need be, but I think I'm old enough, don't you? I believe Isabel will be around too. You'll have an opportunity to get to know my future sister-in-law."
It was sort of compulsory for Georgiana to know Miss Nortonly, because she was marrying her cousin. "When is the wedding?"
"Towards the end of the season, I believe. Sometime around August? Later than you'd expect, but when you consider how long they've been together, it's not long at all. I think Samuel must be oblivious of time, or something."
"It wouldn't surprise me."
For the remainder of the journey, Christy and Georgiana talked of trivialities, and what had happened in their lives since their last meeting. Christabel was curious as to Georgiana's opinion of Elizabeth, and the answers to her questions were satisfactorily answered. Georgiana did not tire of talking of her brother's happiness, as it gave her almost as much pleasure as it did to him.
Lady Christabel and Miss Darcy's arrival was announced in the Society Papers, and several invitations arrived in the Matlock townhouse on Park Lane. By a twist of fate Lady Catherine relinquished her daughter for the Season to Christy. (Don't ask me how she did it, I haven't a clue. Maybe she's going natty in the head, or wanted the place to herself for a while.)
She was not aware that Georgiana was there too, and that was probably just as well, because she would have refused in that case. Mrs. Jenkinson was given the boot.... er, given leave, and two young but experienced abigails were hired for the Misses Darcy and De Bourgh.
The meeting between Anne and Georgiana was as warm and friendly as it always was for them, if not more so. They were as pleased as punch to see one another again, and especially in such an exciting circumstance. Anne had not been previously presented (depriving the Court of it's brightest jewel, as we are all aware), so this year both she and Georgiana would be presented. They had to be fitted for quite a few dresses and accessories, that had to be bought.
The Colonel had temporarily moved out of his lodging, and back into the house where his sister was. But he was rarely there, being excessively busy, and whenever he heard the words 'presented' 'ball' 'dance' 'dress' 'fitting' and 'court' he was sure to roll his eyes at his cousins and sister.
Christy, well used to him, took it in her stride, and Georgiana and Anne just smiled. They knew him well enough to know when he teased.
Dresses and hats galore were to be found in the Fitzwilliam household, even after just the first shopping expedition. There was more to come. Anne and Georgiana were having the time of their lives, experiencing their first proper glimpses of society, without having to enter it and speak. By the time ballgowns had been completed for the three, as well as pelisses, bonnets, wraps, gloves and shoe roses, the Colonel was heard to say he was surprised there was any fabric left to make dresses for anyone else in London, since it all seemed to be congregating and multiplying in the wardrobes.
The Presentation at Court was to occur in three weeks. The dress style and feathers compulsory for the event were talked of, and would be finished within a week. Georgiana was, even more than Anne, frightened of the prospect of being presented to such an Imperial force as the Regent, and many other Royals, but was also simultaneously eager for it to occur. She was well aware, as Thackeray was, that a presentation at court accounted for the respectability and prestige of the lady. Without it, the chances of taking the marriage market by storm were far less, but with it........
It was daunting to be permitted to marry, but Georgiana was determined to be sensible, and to act anything but rashly. She was not going to have another Ramsgate.
Anne was thrilled with the idea. She couldn't wait to marry, to live away from her mother. It would be bliss for her, whereas Georgiana could not imagine moving away from Pemberley permanently, with anything less than dread. But none of the cousins appeared closer than any other to matrimony - Georgiana and Anne had no beaus, and Christy had none she'd settle with.
For much of the time before their presentation, Georgiana and Anne were fully occupied in the ballroom, learning steps. they had even mastered the waltz, but as it was still considered a trifle indecorous, they did not know whether their practice would be for naught or not.
Miss Darcy, of Pemberley, Derbyshire, and Miss de Bourgh of Rosings, Kent, were reputed to be amongst the season's greatest catches. There was, of course, also the Lady Christabel Fitzwilliam, but it was not to be believed that after so many seasons, this would be the one in which she should embrace matrimony.
The young ladies did not intend to grace the ballrooms of London until after their presentation, though it was perfectly proper that they do so before then, had they wished.
The day for presentation came, and Georgiana was all aquiver.
Today she was to come out.
Today she was no longer a child.
Today she was a lady, and so she would be for the rest of her life.
She was, she reflected, a little on the young side. It was surprising, then, that Fitzwilliam should allow his sister to come out. But he had, and that was that. The landau that carried Anne and Georgiana to St. James contained to very quiet, frightened and excited young ladies. Christabel and the Colonel had come as chaperones, but couldn't enter the room where 'Prinny' was. The trains and feathers were arranged, the procedure run through heads several times, and at last, when it was completed, they walked backwards out of the room, and into the company of the less august.
When the presentation was over, Anne could remember little of what was said, and Georgiana recollected even less. Christy did not plague them, asking how it went, as she remembered how she had felt after her presentation.
Their first engagement was to be a dinner party that evening. It was being held by Christabel's godmother, and at it were several people the girls were acquainted with, which made things so much easier and less frightening. They had been instructed to talk - to converse, which was something more easily said than done. Georgiana was used to monosyllabic replies, while Anne was used to Mrs. Jenkinson answering for her!
The abigails, Meg and Mimi, assisted Anne and Georgiana into their more adult-like gowns, and did their hair in older styles. By the time she was ready, Georgiana positively felt grown-up, which gave her a much-desired confidence boost.
Anne looked... healthy. A removal from her mother had done her the world of good, and she had no need to pretend she was ill, as she had done almost since her birth. Christy came to her cousin's doors, to bring them down. They looked nervous, but Christy's good humour and ease somewhat infused them, and they were ready.
Ready for their coming out - a new chapter of their lives.
He who does not hope to win has already lost.
~ Jose Joaquin de Olmedo
Miss Georgiana Darcy's introduction to the world and all it's pleasures, foibles and prejudices was keenly noted by many, as was the introduction of the less handsome, but even more wealthy Miss de Bourgh. Their renown spread far - the offspring of daughters of an earl, and the present Earl of Matlock's nieces, in possession of at least 30 000 pounds were of course to be looked upon as highly eligible. And that was not to mention the additional blessing of beauty.
The fashion for dark hair was not yet fully established, and Miss Darcy's cherubic face and soft fair locks entranced more than one. Miss de Bourgh was unique in the beauty stakes - certainly not either plain or ravishing, but possessing intriguing features. Her eyes and mouth were better than the nose, and the hue of her hair shone out indignantly, but still relatively charmingly when between her fair cousin's Miss Darcy and Lady Christabel Fitzwilliam.
They were reckoned charming, elegant, sophisticated ladies, and their shyness, evident at times, made them quiet and unpretentious. Occasionally their youth could be against them, but it was obvious they were not common fresh-from-the-schoolroom chits.
Their chaperone was a Colonel, brother to Lady Christabel, who also kept an eye on young cousins. Not one of the ladies was spared from beaus, many of them quite notable. Lady Christabel even had the attentions of a Duke. The season had only just begun, and there was destined to be more...
"Georgie!!! Guess what!" Anne cried happily, as she ran into the drawing room where Georgiana sat sewing. "Your brother and Mrs. Darcy are come to town!"
Georgiana clapped his hands together naively. "How splendid! I was not expecting them for another fortnight!"
"You can tell them so much about our simply marvelous time we're having." Anne continued, smiling. "But don't forget to mention Sir Brian!" she finished, giggling coyly.
Georgiana groaned. Sir Brian Brandley was a positive nuisance and a total fop, who had taken it in to his mind that Georgiana would suit him as a bride. Anne thought it was a huge joke, because not even Mr. Pembroke, who plagued her, was as frustrating as Sir Brian.
Georgiana went to the Darcy Townhouse almost immediately. It was still morning, so callers would not have started or been permitted, but Georgiana was family. The master and mistress did not greet her immediately, and when they did, it was with flushed faces.
Georgiana took little notice of this, and burst forth with hugs, welcomes and exclamations. The welcomes between brother and sister, as well as sister and sister were strong and heartfelt. William was expressed as happy and content. Lizzy was bright and rosy. Georgiana was exclaimed at by the others, and her hairstyle and clothes were commented on. "I told you that sky blue pelisse was just the thing, didn't I?" Lizzy whispered.
But beyond that, there were other changes. Georgiana's attitude was a bit more open, but she was still a little bit shy. Her face bloomed sweetly, and she really did appear an attractive young woman - not a little girl anymore was Miss Darcy. Her poor brother was exceedingly surprised - he could not help it - his little Georgie was all grown up!
"Just wait until you see me at a ball!" Georgiana had said eagerly.
Darcy wasn't quite sure he was ready to see Georgiana at a ball, but he was prepared to introduce the Mrs. Darcy into his circle of society. Lizzy was eager for everything, and considered it a great pity that twelve things could not be done at once.
So far Georgiana had attended only one ball - her debut. And what a debut it had been! One of the patronesses of Almacks, Lady Jersey - rumoured to have been connected with Byron before Lady Caroline Lamb - had given a large ball. It was the sort with cascading champagne fountains, and a ballroom filled exquisitely with candles. Anne and Georgiana had been brimming with awe. Quadrille's, the Boulanger, waltzes and more had been danced, and the Misses Darcy and de Bourgh were only partnerless during the waltz, and that was not through not being solicited. They could hardly comprehend their popularity, but often saw gentlemen watching them endlessly, and some women eyeing them jealously.
Lady Christabel did not have a difficult job in assisting her cousins, and leaving them with filled cards. Her own she found quickly complete, with a few gentlemen she knew, and a few she didn't.
Anne and Georgiana didn't know any of the men, with the exception of the Colonel, who ensured her danced with both of them. He also succeeded in raising blushes in both girls' cheeks, both before and during the sets. Anne and Georgiana stayed until the early hours of the morning, as that was ton, and then slept exhausted until late in the day.
Since that petrifying (talking and dancing started off nerve-wracking to the sheltered debutantes) and exciting (but what a thrill it had been!) experience, invitations had been flowing quite ceaselessly.
Miss Anne de Bourgh was excited. She had been, in fact, since the minute she exited her mother's presence. A season in London, with Christy and Georgie, in a huge house, attending balls, dancing, new gowns and her mother's being several hours away was bringing Anne to a state of bliss.
And bliss would be nice, so she was doing nothing to deter it.
Everything was new, everything was nice, everything was just exquisite. There was nothing to dampen her joy, only things to increase it.
And now she had been sent a posy by someone other than Mr. Pembroke. Her heart was about to break from over-happiness.
Lady Christabel Fitzwilliam was pleased. She had been ever since she had received the acceptances from her beloved favourite cousins Georgie and Anne, because it meant they would share their coming out.
At last she could have companions stay with her of a reasonably equal rank, who were more interested in a friendship with herself than an intrigue with the Studmuffin. Friends who may, by her assistance, be toasts of the town, and of all the eligible bachelors.
But as well as that, she hoped she might finally make a match herself. Twenty-three was not a very young age, but thankfully she was not too old in the tooth yet. But seeing girls as young as Georgie marrying before her, each year, with less beauty or rank or prestige than herself was just a trifle vexing.
Why could it not be her?
He who does not hope to win has already lost.
~Jose Joaquin de Olmedo
"Who is that, dancing with Prixham?" Lord Ambrose asked his companion Lord Granville.
"Oh, the tallish one? You mean you've not heard of her? She's been out these five years, and none have caught her fancy."
"I'll ask you to remember in the past ten years, I've spent only two in England, what with my wartime Continental Tour, paying last respects and inheriting in the states... Oh, there was that time in India too."
"Ah yes. Busy chap you've been, and you're none the worse for it."
"But who is she?"
"That, my boy, is the Earl of Matlock's only daughter."
"A daughter of an Earl... her name?"
"Fitzwilliam. Lady Christabel Fitzwilliam. Worth over 50 000 pounds if you take her fancy, but not the other way round. She's no spring chicken, but she's devilish taking, when she wants."
"She's.... entrancing! Would she dance with me, d'you think?"
"Amby! It's not like you to take fancy. For my part, I prefer her cousin - over there with Whitby."
"She is tolerable, I suppose, but not to compare with the Lady!"
"Tolerable? Lord, man, she's a Darcy?"
"Darcy? You mean..."
"Of course I mean..."
"Well, she don't look like her brother."
"But she has the fortune."
"Good news. Good news indeed! Is it spread round, the worth of this chit.... er... lady?"
"Aye, and the other one."
"Eh?"
"Miss de Bourgh. Cousin of both, and sole heiress of her family fortune. Estate in Kent."
"What's she worth?"
"Undisclosed amount. But certainly at least that of the Darcy, likely more."
"I'm happy for you, I really am. But would the Lady Christabel favour me with a dance?"
"Hop to it. She's agreeable, and usually quickly taken."
Lord Ambrose contrived to partner the lovely Lady Christabel, and found her as charming as he expected, though a little more forthright. She did not encourage excessive dalliance, and was quick to sort out the flirts from the more seriously minded. That was not to say she excluded them, but knew precisely how to deal with them. She had not been out for five years without learning a bit.
Lady Christabel was not acquainted with Lord Ambrose, and she had heard almost nothing of him, but his appearance was such as always pleased. He had no sinister look about him, but from experience, she was still wary.
"Who is that gentleman, dancing with my cousin?" asked Anne of her partner.
"Lord Ambrose. Son of the late Baron."
"Ah, so he's a peer. I don't much like the look of him." Anne said frankly. "Do you?"
"N.... I am not to comment on the looks of gentlemen, Miss de Bourgh!"
"Oh, of course. My mistake. I do beg your pardon, Mr. Pennington."
"Think nothing of it. But, Miss de Bourgh, you must answer me this - why have you not previously graced London? This is surely not your first season."
"But it is! My.....er....mother....er...... felt that .....er..... it would be no loss if I waited .... er...... until she felt I was quite ....er.... prepared."
"But it has been a loss to me - not being permitted to know you sooner," Mr. Pennington continued gallantly. Anne blushed lightly and turned her eyes away to the direction of another cousin.
Poor Georgiana had had better days. Sir Brian was unremitting, and would just not go away! He had an unhappy talent of being able to ignore refusals, and standing up with women who had not the least inclination for dancing with him, and doing it in such a way that it was impossible for them to cry off and remain with some vestige of reputation.
He had hair almost as oily as Mr. Collins, and looked just like a caricature dandy of Cruickshanks. Even worse, he was becoming as florid as the Regent. He was certainly not the most distinguished or becoming beau around. Whoever he set his sights on had the sincere sympathy of half of London, while the other half were merely thankful it wasn't them.
And his latest choice: Georgiana Darcy.
Christabel fell onto a divan and smiled yawningly, Anne skipped around to the pianoforte, sat down, stood up and joined Christy, and Georgiana made her way up to her room, pleading headache.
"I'm not surprised." Anne whispered to Christy. "One minute around that man would be enough to spoil my evening."
The balcony which Georgiana stood on offered fresh air and a calm feeling she had not experienced since that afternoon. Why did he have to ruin things for her? Why did he choose her? It was most odious, most unfair. He was even worse than Dr. Stonewall ..... maybe not..... at least Sir Brian hadn't kidnapped her .....yet.
Darcy and Elizabeth were of the same mind regarding Sir Brian - the sooner he went, the better. His pretensions, personality, prestige, person and manner did not recommend him. Snubs, rebuttals, cuts - none made the least impression. The only time Georgiana knew she could have no hope of seeing him was at Almacks.
Vouchers were excluded him, but readily available for people like Georgiana, Anne and Christy. So they often went.
It was there the ladies met Major Lord Bentley.
A man of impeccable taste, of birth : a viscount, possessed with good fortune and good looks, this man seemed blessed in all respects. And he wore a redcoat.
He was about twenty-four years old, and many ladies admired him, even some that were older. He had been in France, against le Empereur Napoleon de Bonaparte, and returned to his homeland of Angleterre. He first sought the partnership of Mademoiselle de Bourgh, whom he declared tres bien at everything, even if she did have a French surname.
He talked with such spirit and ease that it was not difficult to see why he was so admired. Christy could not perceive whether this was him naturally, or if he was different in other company. Whispers abounded through the room regarding the dancers, but the ones about the flirting Major Bentley were prevalent.
Anne went home in the happiest of moods. Georgiana was pleased for her - she thought Major Lord Bentley very handsome indeed.
"Will we see him again, do you think?"
"Oh, I hope so!" Anne smiled dreamily.
"What do you know of him, Christy?"
"Not much, that I can recall, He hasn't been in London during the season in the past couple of years, and I was more interested in men who were not my own age, but a little older."
"But how handsome he is!" Anne sighed.
"Yes, but... well, not more than Richard." Georgiana said shyly. Christy glanced up and looked at Georgiana. She was not blushing, but pale instead.
"Oh yes, our dear Studmuffin." Christy choked back laughter.
"Did I hear someone calling?" asked the Colonel, coming into the room.
"No, of course not. We were discussing our opinions of who is handsomer - you or Major Bentley, who we met tonight."
"Bentley... no, I don't recognise the name."
"Anyway, my vote is for the Major, because I simply cannot call my brother more handsome. Anne here thinks Bentley, but dear Georgie's standing by you."
The Colonel's eyes were caught between twinkling at Georgiana, and frowning at Anne. "Oh! is that so?" they seemed to say.
Anne answered. "Indeed. No-one that saw him could say anything against him, I'm sure."
"I wish I could lay a wager with you. But I will not."
"And Sir Brian was nowhere to be seen. I had a splendid time!" Georgiana added.
"Anatolia agrees." Christy said supportively. "Only hear her!"
"I can, I assure you." replied Richard, looking over at Christy's little dog, yapping it's tiny head off.
"Such a sweet little thing...."
"Yes indeed..."
"A darling..."
"No indeed! The thing's a pampered ball of fluff, Christy! - hardly sweet."
"Ah Richard - you haven't a woman's feelings or taste."
"If women's feeling or taste prefer such a creature as Anatolia - Anatolia! What possessed you? - I had much rather I did not have them."
"I think Anatolia is no worse a name than Theodocia, Richard." said Georgiana, smiling largely. "Do you not recall a conversation revolving around that name?"
"Of course I do, my dear Theodocia. Heavens! What had possessed you then?"
"I believe I may safely attribute it to the fall."
"What's this? Georgiana, since when have you been known as Theodocia? I'm sure I never heard of it."
"Er.. only for a short time when I was staying with Richard. I had amnesia after a fall and thought my name Theodocia."
"Oh Georgie, you goose!" Christy grinned. "Anatolia! Oh, do get out of there! What do you think you're doing?"
"I believe she might be trying to get under your dress Christy." the Colonel pointed out. "Yes, I think you're right. A darling dog if ever I saw one."
"Richard! Do be quiet! Anatolia! Stop it. Right now."
"Wasn't Major Bentley a dream?" asked Anne, thinking of nothing else.
"A picture indeed. I hope to see more of him." said Georgiana, very shyly.
"And his dancing!"
"His manner!"
"His face!"
"Don't neglect the rest!"
"Oh, please do." begged the Colonel. "I've heard more than enough, I assure you."
Anne laughed and continued. "Oh Christy, do you think we shall see him again?"
"I think you should go to bed!"
Before you give up hope, turn back and read the attacks that were made on Lincoln.
~ Bruce Barton
Anne could hardly wait for the next engagement, and hoped upon hope that Major Lord Bentley would be there. Christy was pleased to be singled out by Lord Ambrose, and her brother, who was present, rose his eyebrows. Samuel was also expected to be coming to this particular party, but hadn't seemed to have arrived yet.
"Here he is!" Anne clapped her hands. Both Major Lord Bentley and Samuel entered, so Georgiana wasn't sure just who the 'he' was. Each joined the party, though Samuel was by far the more familiar with them. Anne's eyes danced when the Major asked Georgiana to dance with him, then she realised it was not her being asked. The Lady Catherine in her screamed out in indignation and upset. It was not fair!
She stalked off to join the Colonel. She didn't bother complaining, as she knew the likelihood of being teased. He could see the flicker of a flame, and kept quiet.
She watched Georgiana, or rather, she watched the Major. With every particularly elegant move she sighed.
"Richard, this is terribly rude of me I know, but I have no partner."
"Not one!"
"No. And I..."
"... Was wondering why I do not dance?" the Colonel asked.
"Well, er, yes"
"Did it escape your notice that I have no partner?"
"Er.. no."
"There you have your answer."
"But.."
"No buts. I have no partner."
"I..." Anne trailed off.
He took the hint. "Anne, would you be my partner for the next dance?"
"If you would like me to."
"Would I ask you if I did not want you to?"
"I thought...."
"You thought wrong."
"Can you read my mind or something Richard?" Anne asked, mystified.
"I may be able to."
Oh dear.
"Miss de Bourgh, may I take your hand?"
"I believe you must, if you mean to dance!" Anne smiled, as she offered her hand to the Colonel.
How nice he is! But how dreeeamy Major Bentley is.......
Major Lord Bentley was dreamy, as Georgiana discovered. He entertained her the entire time, and flirted almost shamelessly. Georgiana hadn't enjoyed herself, or felt so comfortable with any other person she had danced with, save the Colonel, as she did with Major Bentley.
He intrigued her with a mysterious air when answering questions, and she couldn't help but smile at some of his comments. He was, she thought, a charming companion, and so handsome too! He had none of Wickham's airs, he didn't look the type.
Lady Christabel watched her cousins. Georgiana was obviously quite pleased with her lot, and Sir Brian had not yet been sighted. Anne had not been so content, but now she was quite amicably dancing with Richard. He did not look bored, but he was not entirely enthralled. Dancing at balls had never been among his favourite pastimes. He appeared to be making an effort for Anne's sake.
Lord Ambrose thought Christy an angel, but did not pester her. She was grateful, and appreciated him more for it.
Anne's great pleasure for the evening was in dancing with Major Bentley once more. He had asked her for the last dances of the night, and she was literally thrilled to pieces.
Georgiana sat with Richard, too tired for more dancing. "How pleased Anne looks!"
"How sprightly Anne looks."
"I believe she enjoys the company, but I shall say no more."
"It is excessively evident. He's not that handsome, is he Georgie?"
Georgie was the name Georgiana was called by her cousins when she was younger, or sometimes when they were disposed to be in affectionate moods.
"Well, he is not ugly, I confess."
"I see."
He's a redcoat! I can't help it! But Colonel, nor are you ugly. In the least.
In the next week Anne had more cause for joy. The next grand ball was coming up soon, but as of yet she had no requests from prospective partners to dance. Then, things changed. "Oh Georgie! You'll never guess what has just happened!" Anne cried with glee a short time later. "It's so wonderful! A posy! For me!"
Georgiana lifted her eyes up from her embroidery. "Who from?"
"Major Bentley." Anne swooned.
Georgiana was startled. "But he hardly knows you! And you him!"
"Stuff! Georgie, you don't understand. I feel as if I know him already. I would put implicit trust in his word. I would!"
"Can you really?" Georgiana asked with the slightest skepticism. What if he's like Wickham? It was just like that for me...
"Of course I can!" Anne said petulantly, and she pouted. Her eyes narrowed. "I say, Georgiana Darcy - you're jealous!"
Georgiana could not deny it. Week after week, the posies that came for her were either inappropriately coloured, or from Sir Brian, who would "know what to think" if she wore it. On no account then, would Miss Darcy wear his flowers.
Then, what should happen, but Anne receive a gorgeous posy - and from the wonderful Major Lord Bentley too! It was not fair.
Georgiana was morose, Anne ecstatic, and Christy pleased at the prospect of tonight's ball at Lady Cavisham's. But Georgiana's spirits were lightened when she would that no less a person than Colonel Fitzwilliam was to escort them, and they would meet the Darcy's there.
This would be one of Elizabeth's first London balls as a Darcy. Georgiana was pleased for her, but really did wish that for once she had a suitable posy. She bemoaned the fact to the ever-amiable Christy, who was fortunate enough to have received posies from Lord Ambrose and another gentleman, even as the dawn had come, so it seemed.
"Well, I can't exactly permit you to have one of mine, Georgie, much as I might wish it. It would be perfectly scandalous, and you can't have that, though I should probably invariably get away with it. You wouldn't though, I think. What gown did you say you were to wear?"
Georgiana admitted it would be green, a favourite of hers.
"And your jewellery?"
"Which do you think? Pearls or the emerald my brother and Lizzy gave me?"
"If it was a gift, and they'll be there, wear the emerald then. And your gloves? White or silver?"
"White."
"Very well. You should look darling, and might even snare a few of Anne's partners."
"She's exceedingly fond of Major Bentley, isn't she?"
"Exceedingly fond? Pff! She's wild for him. And really, he's not a bad match, though I can't see Lady Catherine approving, because Anne would be leaving the hallowed turf of Rosings permanently. Anyway, didn't you wish to buy ribbands, Georgiana? Go and take Leah with you. She's a sweet thing, and very fond of you, though there is no way that she couldn't be!"
Georgiana smiled with a blush, and went off as quickly as possible, with Leah in tow. It was not a great distance, but as she had gone in a chaise, it took extra time to embark &c. When Georgiana returned, with green and white ribbands and Leah, she was much surprised to find something waiting for her.
A posy.
It was gorgeous. Tiny white baby roses, and a few golden ones placed in and around the white, were tied back with a little white ribbon. Georgiana was thrilled to death, it was the nicest posy she had ever seen, much less ever been given.
She picked it up with care, and noticed the attached card. On it were written the few words:
If thou dost these choose to wear,
For the first waltz then, shall we pair.
It was unsigned. How tediously vexing! But it really was marvelous. And, being anonymous, it was delightfully mysterious. It was ethereal anticipation, close to torture for Georgiana the rest of the day. All she wanted was to go to the ball, and her spirits well rivaled Anne's.
Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work; you don't give up. ~ Anne Lamont
Georgiana dressed with a greater than regular attention, and by the time she was finished, felt a positive doll. Her hair, curled and put into a small chignon, was held back by a few bud roses, which perfectly matched the posy. When she ventured out to join the others, Christy and Anne exclaimed at her good looks. Her normally pale cheeks were rosy red, and shone with good humour.
Richard came into the room next. "Well, Georgiana, you look lovely. And those flowers suit you. With whose compliments are they from?"
"I don't know," she confessed.
"A secret admirer!" Anne clapped her hands. "How exciting!"
"Indeed! Will you dance the first waltz with me, Miss Darcy?"
"I...er... well.... I am promised to the one who gave me the posy."
"I see. Shall we be off then?" the Colonel asked with unimpaired cheerfulness.
Anne was not expecting to see Major Bentley until later in the night, the ball being his second or third engagement of the night. The Darcys were there around nine o'clock, and many were the rumours heard about them, though more particularly Mrs. Darcy. Lady Jersey desired to be told all about her, and pronounced her charming. Princess Esterhazy sniffed at her birth, but as now she was a Darcy the voucher to Almacks would be offered, and of course accepted.
Darcy, usually not the most avid dancer, was said to be most uncommonly amiable, and quite willing to dance, especially with his wife. Christy was quickly claimed by one other than Lord Ambrose, making his Lordship quite vexed, and roused. Indeed, his temperate self only returned after he was able to secure her hand for one of the later dances.
Anne danced eagerly with Mr. Pennington, who despite his ignoble name, was very pleasing in his behaviour. However, her occupation of continually looking over at the door, as if impatiently awaiting someone, drew the attention of others, and made her unintentionally accept Mr. Pembroke.
"Oh Miss de Bourgh! You have made me the happiest of mortals!" Mr. Pembroke sighed, clasping at his heart energetically.
Anne turned her eyes away from the door and looked at him. "I have?" she asked, mystified.
"Oh Miss de Bourgh! My heart's fondest wish complete!" Anne was now wondering what his heart's fondest wish was. She didn't know hearts could wish, but she wished Major Bentley would come.
"What joy shall result!" Mr. Pembroke continued.
"Result from what?" Anne asked, her eyes back wistfully towards the door.
"Why Miss de Bourgh, my cherished one! From our alliance in mat-ri-mon-y!"
Oh Good Lord! He can't mean to marry me! "Er..."
"And you have accepted me! I never thought I should feel so ecstatic!"
I never knew I could feel so..... ill! But when did I accept him? Not.... just then, when I was not tending to a word I said? Oh dear! I need to be away from him before I.....
"Might I be permitted to ...er... leave your side now sir?"
"Of course my Fairy Queen! Fly away, Titania!"
I think I'm going to be sick...
Anne was grateful when she found neither Christy or Georgiana partnered yet, so she whisked them outside with her. Then she burst into tears. "Oh Georgie! Christy! The most terrible thing has happened!"
"Oh dear! Major Bentley has been injured and cannot show up tonight!" Georgiana suggested.
There was a stifled gasp. "Major Bentley!" Anne cried even harder. "No. 'Tis worse! Mr. Pembroke.."
"Has proposed." Christy said matter-of-factly. "Well I'm only surprised it wasn't sooner. Oh Anne! Why cry over that?"
"Because ... *sniffle*..... I've.... *moan*.... accepted him!"
Georgiana stared.
Christy guffawed.
Georgiana gasped.
Christy groaned.
Georgiana stood in mute disbelief.
Christy could not close her mouth. "ANNE DE BOURGH!! WHAT WERE YOU THINKING??"
"Oh Christy! I didn't realise what he had asked me! It wasn't until after he said I had accepted him I realised what I had said yes to."
"What are you going to do?" Georgiana asked in awe.
"I don't know! I want to go back.... to... Park Lane."
To Georgiana and Anne this was a calamity - a nightmare. To Christabel it was a source of amusement, but there was a bitter edge to it.
"I have it!" Christy said suddenly. "Get Richard."
Colonel Fitzwilliam was summoned, and Christy whispered her plan to him. "It should work."
"It had better work." Christy replied with determination. So Colonel Fitzwilliam went to Mr. Pembroke for a few private words.
"He'll come." he said to Christy once he returned. "Expect him for a morning call."
"Did you make him promise?"
"He said he would tell no-one of the engagement until after tomorrow." All the girls gave a sigh of relief, and left the party.
Christy was a tiny bit sad she did not end up dancing with all the people listed on her ivory dance card.
Anne was upset, for obvious reasons, and disturbed that she had to leave before the arrival of Major Bentley.
And then there was Miss Darcy. Georgiana was filled with much disappointment - they had not stayed for the first waltz.
The sender of her posy could neither be thanked, discovered or danced with.
Who has not hoped
To outrage an enemy's dignity?
Who has not been swept
By the wish to hurt?
And who has not thought that the impersonal world
Deserves no better than to be destroyed
By one fabulous sign of his displeasure?"
~J. Bronowski
Georgiana was awakened the next morning when Anne came into her room. She was distressed because Mr. Pembroke ("Oh Georgie! He's my fiancé!") had called in Park Lane to see Colonel Fitzwilliam.
"Already?" Georgiana asked, startled. "Surely it's shockingly early? He must be devoid of all propriety to come at this hour!"
"Precisely what I thought. And oh! I am to marry the wretched man. I am sure I have never slept so ill as I did last night."
"Is he still around?"
"No. Thank goodness. He left in a tearing hurry, too."
Mr. Pembroke was gone from London for three days. Anne could not but rejoice, until she realised he might have gone down to his family estate to tell about her. Anne was so miserable then that she was unaware of how dejected her cousin was.
Miss Darcy wished with all her heart she could have the opportunity to apologise to the sender of the posies. Christy was no worse, nor no better than she regularly was, and so remained cheerful. Richard was extremely busy now, and rarely seen by the others,
But the group was collectively looking forward to tomorrow night, as their box was saved for them at the theatre. They were to see Shakespeare, but it was not one Georgiana would be that interested in. She was no tragedian, unlike her cousin Richard. Anne could not recall ever reading Macbeth, and Christy assured her that if she had no inclination to read it, she was probably better off if she didn't.
Georgiana was surprised to see such a gathering at the theatre. She had only been there before quite rarely, so it was all still very much a great novelty for her. They all arrived just before the beginning of Act One. All manner of exalted persons could be seen and nodded at, and the latest fashions were flaunted throughout the place. Almost as soon as the party had been seated and attended to, their number increased by one.
"MAJOR BENTLEY!" Anne stifled something between a sob and a gasp.
It would not do for Major Bentley to retort "MISS DE BOURGH!", so he did not.
"Oh Georgie!" Anne whispered. "Talk to him. Pray don't let him be near me - I am so oppressed! But he mustn't know. Oh I wish Mr. Pembroke would have an apoplexy and die!"
Georgiana obliged her cousin, and found herself sitting next to and speaking with Major Bentley. This previously hadn't happened - his attentions had always been more towards Anne. "I've not seen you or your party, Miss Darcy, for a few days - and you had left Lady Cavisham's ball before ever I arrived. But I heard Miss de Bourgh was pleased with her posy, and that yours was very generally admired, as I have reason to believe you yourself were also."
Georgiana blushed and disclaimed. A thought struck her: Had it been Major Lord Bentley that sent the flowers? "The flowers were gorgeous. But do you know, Major Bentley, it was sent anonymously - so I know not who sent it."
"Well! Either the gentleman is secretive by nature with his lady-loves, or he'd rather be silent than making a cake of himself."
"Or he might be shy," Georgiana suggested hopefully. I'm shy. I wonder what it would be like to marry someone as shy as myself. I suppose we'd never venture outdoors...
"Perhaps. I don't know. It wasn't me, so I can't know. It will remain one of life's great mysteries, eh Miss Darcy?"
"What do you think of the play?" Georgiana asked after a moment.
"What do you think of the play?"
"Well, I have never been fond of people dying all over the place, even if it is a play. I much prefer the comedies."
"In the Army I have seen such things - but they are not of the nature to be described to such young innocent children as yourself."
"I am not a child!"
"How old are you then, Miss Darcy? You cannot be older than seventeen at the most."
"I'm s-sixteen."
"Ah! Sweet sixteen and never been kissed."
"Aren't those witches strange?" Georgiana changed the subject.
"Strange, yes, and not nearly as charming as......"
"Are you still in the Regulars?"
Major Bentley half-bowed, restricted by the fact he was sitting down.
"Oh." Georgiana had begun to feel impertinent. She began to take a greater interest in the play.
After the intermission, Mr. Pembroke thundered into the box. "Oh my dear, dearest Annikins, I have the most horrid, vexing, disappointing, upsetting, infuriating and distressing news!"
"Oh dear..... What is it?"
"I have been to Rosings...."
"You have been to Rosings?????"
"As I said, I have been to Rosings."
"Whatever for?"
"To ask your mother for her consent."
"My mother!"
"Yes, your mother. I couldn't ask your father, not with his being dead and all."
Christy smirked, the Colonel rolled his eyes and Anne huffed.
"And?"
"My darling! I regret to inform you she refused! And my scruples forbid me from suggesting Gretna Green."
Praise the Lord! "Mr. Pembroke, I am terribly sorry indeed, but I cannot go against my mother's wishes. I must not marry you."
"Oh Annie! So strong! So honourable! So perfect!"
Annie came close to indulging in a coughing fit.
"But do you not think you could try to persuade your mama that I am not so inappropriate as she thinks me? I am seen as a contemptible rake, devoid of proper feelings, imbibed with vice and mercenary ambitions."
"Are you?" Anne asked with the appearance of innocence.
"Oh Annie! Surely you must see I am not! I love you! Why do you shiver so, my angel?"
I do not shiver - I shudder!
"Let me assist you with your .. er... coat."
"I thank you, sir, but I am fine."
"Anne! Would that your mother could permit us!"
"But she will not. Her temperament is not such that will permit her to revoke her decisions. Surely you must have seen that! I cannot disobey her...orders. I cannot marry you Mr. Pembroke." Anne tried to look grave. Her tone was filled with finality, however, and her disappointed suitor left the theatre in dismay.
Realising the futility of his quest, Mr. Pembroke left for the Continent, where within a few years he was surrounded by a wife and children, having close to forgotten there ever existed a Miss Anne de Bourgh.
The said Miss de Bourgh was, however, at that time far from dismayed, and filled instead with sheer relief. She found out later that it had been Christy's idea to send him to Lady Catherine, and Colonel Fitzwilliam had met with him, telling him he must go to Rosings to ask for her consent to Anne's marrying.
The cousins knew how Lady Catherine would have reacted, and were simultaneously glad and disappointed they had not been there to see it.
Georgiana had opened up far more to Major Lord Bentley than she did with other gentlemen. She sensed he was different to her general acquaintance. But she was not loathe to relinquish herself for Anne, bubbling like she was, as she felt tired of talking.
Part 6
I've found that the chief difficulty for most people was to realize that they had really heard new things: that is things that they had never heard before. They kept translating what they heard into their habitual language. They had ceased to hope and believe there might be anything new.
~ Peter Demianovich Ouspensky
Life in London was not so thrilling as Georgiana had expected, though it was above her expectations. Anne, however, was enjoying it far more. She was spending more and more time with Major Bentley and was close to hanging off his every word.
Colonel Fitzwilliam alternated between spending more time with his cousins, and less time with them. Christabel, for the first time in an age, was close to thoroughly enjoying herself. She tried to convince herself it was entirely because of her dear Musketeer's coming; but failed because she knew Lord Ambrose was not one of the Musketeers, and certainly her enjoyment of the Season had partly to do with him.
The Darcy's had been in town for long enough at present, they decided, and departed to Pemberley in preparation for the arrival of the Bennets, who were anxious to sight Lizzy's new home. Georgiana was invited to come with them, but she rather thought she'd prefer to be in the company of Anne & Christy than Mary & Mrs. Bennet.
A few weeks passed, with fewer gaieties - the society was thinning, and many were now departing for the beach resorts. Just the thought of the beach made Georgiana's mind flit back alarmingly to Ramsgate, so she had no wish to leave London for such a place. Christy was not fussed either which way, but Anne was adamant she could not leave Major Lord Bentley.
Christy warned her companion frequently that her manner towards Major Bentley was not considered quite appropriate - she fawned over him so blatantly, doted on his every word, could not draw her eyes away from him and danced as many dances with him as was possible. Her behaviour was beginning to be talked of by others, and not kindly.
But Anne took little heed. She was possessed with the incorrigible de Bourgh stubborness, and began to care little for other's opinions. This was starting to seriously concern her cousins, particularly Georgiana. Anne was being secretive in some aspects of her relationship with Major Bentley - Christy and Georgiana were unaware of how many times Anne had met up with the Major when on her solitary walks, and her abigail was not likely to betray her mistress.
But the fact was that others knew, and the two were living like a time bomb - it would blow up and be all in the open, but the precise moment this would happen was unknown, and by Anne at least, unexpected.
Colonel Fitzwilliam had changed a little, and Georgiana could not say it was doing him much good. Christy thought she knew the cause, but was not going to reveal her suspicions. She thought she knew, but could not be certain....
Georgiana hadn't a clue, but knew something was up. Anne was too concerned with Major Bentley to care about the Colonel. Christy decided it would be a good idea for him to go away for a time, and while he was at Watiers, arranged for him to go and visit a cousin on his mother's side at Wimbledon for a few days. With him gone, Georgiana felt listless for a day, but got over it, and talked to Christy a great deal, as Anne was not the best company at the moment.
Anne de bourgh was obsessed with Major Lord Bentley, in such a way that it was beginning to make her ignore her friends in lieu of her beau. It was not healthy, but Anne neither realised nor cared. Major Lord Bentley was the world to her, and really, she did not know what her life would be if she didn't have him.
"Christy! I've just had a letter from Kitty. Would it be very shocking if I read it now rather than drive with Sir Brian?" Please, please, oh please say no.
"Yes, but go along. I'll make up some plausible excuse. How does mumps sound?"
"Mumps? I think not. But thank you, Christy, I don't know where I'd be without you."
"With Sir Brian." Christy retorted. Georgiana grinned and opened her letter.
Pemberley House, DerbyshireDear Georgiana,
How does your London season progress? As you see from the address I am at present residing at your home. I must confess I had no idea it would be so grand! There's nothing like it! Oh, but I suppose you would already know that. Dear me!
Not a great deal has happened since we wrote last, but you don't always need a subject when writing a letter. I do hope you don't mind paying a sixpence for my drivel. I shall try to limit myself to one page, though crossing lines diagonally makes ordinary lists of information so horridly cryptic.
Oh! But the officers have returned to Meryton, minus Wickham of course, and can you believe it?? My sister MARY has been (heavily underscored) SECRETLY ENGAGED!!!!
I was close to an apoplexy when I found out who to. Mama looked like a stunned mullet. It was hilarious.
You do not know her fiancé, but I'm telling you this surprising news anyway. Apparently Mary has been secretly engaged since before the regiment left last time, but I was hardly aware she knew the names of the officers, let alone being in love with one of them!
Mama is thrilled to pieces, as you might expect. But now I am constantly being asked when I shall marry. Considering that I have met no one I like well enough, I cannot possibly know. It's shockingly frustrating. Are you any closer to marrying than I? I think Lizzy said you were with cousins - Miss de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam's sister, isn't it? You ladies all have veritable fortunes, so I suppose you won't be single much longer.
But don't marry unless you love. You might end up like my mother, and I'm sure that can hardly be desired.
love, yours &c.
Kitty Bennet.
P.S. I forgot to tell you who Mary is marrying! It's Lieutenant Chamberlayne. He used to have a thing for dressing in ladies' clothing, but Mary has reformed him. La!
By the end of the letter Georgiana was gasping with laughter. Mary Bennet, the pedantic bluestocking that played very ill was engaged to a crossdressing redcoat!
It was absurd.
Christy came in, wondering at Georgiana's loud snorting. She was wordlessly handed the letter by Miss Darcy, who was crying with laughter.
Suddenly Christabel shrieked with laughter. "Mary! I remember her! Didn't quite strike me as the type.... secret engagement.... women's clothing..... Oh dear me! Dearie me! Oh, I hope no-one comes across us right now!"
"Me too." Georgiana hiccuped, as Christy fell onto a chair, and heard a thumped squeal.
"Anatolia! Oh Georgie, I believe I've squashed my dog!"
"No!" Georgiana said in laughing disbelief.
A few muffled indignant woofs later, Anatolia was patted rather than sat on by her owner. She would be careful not to sit on that divan again. Christy, a little surprised but no longer anxious about her dog, resumed laughing about Mary's astounding engagement.
The Colonel returned and could not believe that:
ii) the said person could wish to marry
iii) someone could accept the said person
iv) the said person could enter into a secret engagement with the said someone
v) the said someone was a bluestocking
vi) a bluestocking he knew
vii) ...Miss Mary Bennet!i) a person in the king's army could stoop to cross-dressing
His reaction sent Georgiana back into fits of laughter, from which she did not recover until dinnertime.
"Er.... where is Anne?" he questioned.