Beginning, Section II, Next Section
As the ladies and Mr. Collins were making the acquaintance of Mr. Wickham, a carriage drove by from the direction of Netherfield. As its occupants, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, saw the ladies they were going to visit, they came to a stop by the group. Mr. Bingley descended and was promptly introduced to Mr. Collins and Mr. Wickham. He started talking to Jane and asking about her health, and saying that he was about to visit her in Longbourn. He and Jane were lost together for the time being.
The more interesting event, however, was when Mr. Darcy descended from the carriage. Elizabeth introduced him to her cousin and to Mr. Wickham. As soon as the introductions were made, Mr. Wickham's face became red and Mr. Darcy's face became dark. Mr. Darcy knew that he had to leave soon, or he will be in danger of losing his temper and committing murder, so he went to Bingley and told him they need to leave and call on Longbourn the next day. As soon as they left, Mr. Wickham recovered, and was greatly pleased to see the way Darcy looked at Elizabeth, and the way she looked at him. He can see that they were in love, or very much on their way to be. And he was determined to ruin Darcy's chances and get his revenge.
Mr. Wickham made a good impression on all the Longbourn ladies in no time. They were all impressed by his lively manners and his entertaining conversation. Lydia and Kitty soon forgot all about Denny and Carter, their old favorites, and were soon trying to catch the attention of Mr. Wickham. But that gentleman's attention was caught by their sister Elizabeth, due to his observation of Darcy's interest in her. Elizabeth was curious to know why he and Mr. Darcy were not comfortable with each other, but she could not bring herself to ask him about it in front of her sisters. Lydia and Kitty were disappointed to see all the attention focused on Elizabeth, but that did not prevent them from inviting Mr. Wickham as well as the other two officers to visit their aunt Mrs. Phillips with them. The invitation was accepted by the three officers, as well as by Mr. Collins, who was determined to follow Lydia everywhere.
Soon enough, they were invited to play cards by Mrs. Phillips. This invitation was gladly accepted by all, even Mr. Collins.
"I know little of the game, at present," said he, "but I shall be glad to improve myself, for in my situation of life, ..." Mrs. Philips was very thankful for his compliance, but could not wait for his reason.
After the first few games, Both Elizabeth and Lydia excused themselves. Elizabeth was dying from curiosity to know more about the relationship between Wickham and her beloved, that she was not able to concentrate on the game. Lydia, on the other hand, was bored by the attentions paid to her by Mr. Collins, and she did not want to sit by him for long. Both Elizabeth and Lydia picked some needlework, and sat on different tables in the drawing room.
To the pleasure of one sister and the dismay of the other, Mr. Wickham and Mr. Collins excused themselves after the next game, leaving Jane, Mary, Kitty, the two officers and Mrs. Phillips to play by themselves. Wickham joined Lizzy and Collins joined Lydia at their respective tables.
"My dear cousin Lydia! What a great way to spend an evening. I always thought that needlework was perfect for young ladies of breeding!" Mr. Collins started.
Lydia decided to have some fun with him.
"Oh Mr. Collins. I like needlework but I also like dancing more. Do you like dancing, Mr. Collins?"
"My profession does not leave me much time to practice dancing. But I assure you I am a true proficient. I enjoy it too much. There is nothing like dancing for young people. And between acquaintances it is a good social practice. I had once heard my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings Park, say that social ranks should be preserved when selecting a dance partner. She pointed out that ..."
"That is great, Mr. Collins!" Lydia interrupted. "How much do I long for the ball Mr. Bingley is going to give. Did you know about that?"
"I only saw Mr. Bingley this morning. He seems quite the gentleman. And it is great for him to give a ball to his neighbors. My noble patroness makes sure to give a ball..."
"Oh, Mr. Collins," Lydia interrupted again. "I never stop dancing all night in balls. Unlike poor Mary, who is never asked to dance! And Lizzy too rarely dances, come to think of it! But I think she does it to tease mum. All the officers like to dance with me and Kitty. I really like to dance with someone wearing a red coat."
"So be it then, cousin Lydia. I will wear a red coat on the ball of Mr. Bingley, so make sure to reserve the first two dances for me. My noble patroness Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings Park told me that I need to be kind with my poor cousins. It was her intention..."
Lydia nearly died at his asking her to dance, but later thought it was going to be a lot of fun, and that she will make a scene and have all the officers laugh at him. Thus, she agreed to have the first two dances with him. They continued their conversation, she talking about hats and bonnets, and he talking about his noble patroness and inserting her name every couple of sentences. Lydia was greatly diverted by her silly cousin, if that was ever possible!
Author's note: As my dear readers may have noticed, it is very difficult for me to come up with a conversation between Lydia and Collins, but you have to use your imagination to think of one! Now back to the words of Miss Austen!
Meanwhile, a very different kind of conversation was going on between Elizabeth and Mr. Wickham. Elizabeth was pleased when that gentleman joined her at her table, since she wanted to know what was going on between him and her Mr. Darcy. She, however, did not dare open the subject herself. They had some trivial conversation before Mr. Wickham started the subject himself.
"And how far is Netherfield from Meryton?"
"About two miles. Meryton is on the path between our house in Longbourn and Netherfield."
"And... er... how long has Mr. Darcy been staying there?"
"About a month," said Elizabeth; and then, unwilling to let the subject drop, added, "He is a man of very large property in Derbyshire, I understand."
"Yes," replied Wickham; "his estate there is a noble one. A clear ten thousand per annum. You could not have met with a person more capable of giving you certain information on that head than myself; for I have been connected with his family in a particular manner from my infancy."
Elizabeth could not but look surprised.
"You may well be surprised, Miss Bennet, at such an assertion, after seeing, as you probably might, the very cold manner of our meeting this morning. Are you much acquainted with Mr. Darcy yourself?" Wickham asked.
Something inside her told Elizabeth to be cautious, since she did not want the whole neighborhood to know of her love of Mr. Darcy. "I know him but a little," she said. "I spent four days in Netherfield while I was nursing my sister Jane to health. So what do you think of him, Mr. Wickham?"
"I have no right to give my opinion," said Wickham, "as to his being agreeable or otherwise. I am not qualified to form one. I have known him too long and to well to be a fair judge. It is impossible for me to be impartial. But what does the general neighborhood think of him?"
"Well, most people think him a very polite gentleman, though a bit reserved."
Wickham was a bit distressed, and said in a low voice, "the world is blinded by his fortune and consequence, or frightened by his high and imposing manners, to think badly of him. If only they knew! Is he going to be in this country much longer?"
Elizabeth was surprised at that turn of conversation, but composed herself soon enough to answer, "I do not at all know; but I heard nothing of his going away when I was at Netherfield."
"I am certainly not happy to hear that," Mr. Wickham continued in a low voice. "We are not on friendly terms, and it always gives me pain to meet him. I might proclaim to all the world; a sense of very great ill-usage, and most painful regrets at his being what he is. His father, Miss Bennet, the late Mr. Darcy, was one of the best men that ever breathed, and the truest friend I ever had; and I can never be in company with this Mr. Darcy without being grieved to the soul by a thousand tender recollections. His behaviour to myself has been scandalous; but I verily believe I could forgive him any thing and every thing, rather than his disappointing the hopes and disgracing the memory of his father."
Elizabeth was clearly thrown off-balance by this last statement, and was dying to know more. Mr. Wickham was satisfied by her reaction, but he chose to increase her agony by talking about more general topics.
"It was the prospect of constant society, and good society," he added, "which was my chief inducement to enter the militia. I knew it to be a most respectable, agreeable corps, and my friend Denny tempted me farther by his account of their present quarters, and the very great attentions and excellent acquaintance Meryton had procured them. Society, I own, is necessary to me. I have been a disappointed man, and my spirits will not bear solitude. I must have employment and society. A military life is not what I was intended for, but circumstances have now made it eligible. The church ought to have been my profession -- I was brought up for the church, and I should at this time have been in possession of a most valuable living, had it pleased the gentleman we were speaking of just now."
"Indeed!"
"Yes -- the late Mr. Darcy bequeathed me the next presentation of the best living in his gift. He was my godfather, and excessively attached to me. I cannot do justice to his kindness. He meant to provide for me amply, and thought he had done it; but when the living fell, it was given elsewhere."
Elizabeth again was greatly disturbed by this piece of information, and she could not possibly imagine that Mr. Darcy could do such a thing without a good reason, if what Wickham was indeed telling her the truth. She could not hold herself back from asking,
"But why would Mr. Darcy do such a thing? And how ever can anybody disregard his father's will?"
"There was just such an informality in the terms of the bequest. A man of honour could not have doubted the intention, but Mr. Darcy chose to doubt it; or to treat it as a merely conditional recommendation, and to assert that I had forfeited all claim to it by extravagance, imprudence, in short any thing or nothing. Certain it is, that the living became vacant two years ago, exactly as I was of an age to hold it, and that it was given to another man; and no less certain is it, that I cannot accuse myself of having really done any thing to deserve to lose it. I have a warm, unguarded temper, and I may perhaps have sometimes spoken my opinion of him, and to him, too freely. I can recall nothing worse. But the fact is, that we are very different sort of men, and that he hates me."
Elizabeth knew from Wickham's story that there was more to that story than he was willing to tell, and wanted to know all she can.
"Do you think, Mr. Wickham, that you can confront him here to get what you want? What can be his motive, I wonder?"
"A thorough, determined dislike of me -- a dislike which I cannot but attribute in some measure to jealousy. Had the late Mr. Darcy liked me less, his son might have borne with me better; but his father's uncommon attachment to me, irritated him I believe very early in life. He had not a temper to bear the sort of competition in which we stood; the sort of preference which was often given me."
Elizabeth did not know what to believe. Mr. Wickham's countenance showed his well breeding and excellent manners, but there was something about him she felt uncomfortable with. She could not put her hand on it, but she knew she could not believe all what he told her about Mr. Darcy without asking her beloved about it. She did not bear to think that the extremely polite Mr. Darcy could descend to such measures against his childhood friend without a reason.
Mr. Wickham's attention was caught at that moment by hearing Mr. Collins refer to his noble patroness. After a short pause, he asked Elizabeth in a low voice whether her relation were very intimately acquainted with the family of de Bourgh.
"Lady Catherine de Bourgh," she replied, "has very lately given him a living. I hardly know how Mr. Collins was first introduced to her notice, but he certainly has not known her long."
"You know of course that Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Lady Anne Darcy were sisters; consequently that she is aunt to the present Mr. Darcy."
"No, indeed, I did not. I knew nothing at all of Lady Catherine's connections."
"Her daughter, Miss de Bourgh, will have a very large fortune, and it is believed that she and her cousin will unite the two estates." Silently he congratulated himself on giving her this piece of information. Now, even if she did not believe me before, I would love to see her fancy towards Darcy turn into bitterness. He silently chuckled.
This last piece of information did not please Elizabeth in the least. She knew before that Darcy was beyond her reach, but to know of that was one thing, and to know of the name of a woman who is known to be his fiancee is something completely different. She managed, however, to continue some trivial conversation with Mr. Wickham without being completely distracted by this information. Her attention was soon caught by the conversation between Lydia and Collins, and after a few minutes, she could not help but laugh. She went home with her sisters and cousin in a much better mood.
Later that night
Elizabeth went to Jane's bedroom to check on her health, and she was pleased to see her with a dreaming expression on her angelic face.
"Dear Jane. Why are you so pleased tonight?"
"Oh Lizzy! Mr. Bingley is coming to visit us tomorrow! I cannot wait!"
"Oh dear, and I was wondering! Is he coming alone?" She asked the last question somehow in a lower tone.
"No, he is coming with Mr. Darcy." Jane noticed her sister's downcast look and recollected herself. "Sorry sister! I got too carried away with my happiness to notice your feelings! I hope you will not be too awkward around Mr. Darcy."
"Dear Jane, do not worry about me! I will be fine, or at least I hope so! But wait till I tell you what I heard today about Mr. Darcy." And she proceeded to tell her Wickham's story.
Jane heard her sister with astonishment, and finally asked her, "But you do not believe him, do you?"
"I do not know! I think there is more to the story than Mr. Wickham is saying. Oh Jane, Mr. Darcy is so nice, so polite and so... er... handsome!" She blushed at the last word. "His countenance does not reveal a wicked soul. And all the neighborhood knows him and his behavior! Mr. Wickham seems good too, but there is something about him that I do not feel comfortable about."
"I think it is good for you to at least trust the man you love, little sister! This way, when he proposes to you, you will be able to trust him with yourself."
"But Jane, he will never propose to me! Mr. Wickham told me he was engaged to Miss De Bourgh, Lady Catherine's daughter. I even asked Mr. Collins about it on our way home and he confirmed that fact. I feel horrible about it, and I feel even more horrible at telling Mr. Collins about Mr. Darcy's connection with Lady Catherine! The poor man will never hear the end of it!"
"Lizzy, listen to me: You are a good girl. You are the best sister I could ever want. You are kind. You are considerate and compassionate. You feel badly about the feelings of Mr. Darcy even after you knew he is engaged to another! You are intelligent and I rely on your opinion, though I am your older sister! All those who know you cannot help but love you, and you deserve every bit of it. And God will not let you down! You deserve the very best, and that you will get. Now sister, could you please keep me company for a little while?"
"Oh Jane! You flatter me! But I love you so much to let you down." And they spent a good portion of the night in light sisterly conversation.
Mr. Bingley was very nervous during breakfast. Since Hurst was already drinking his third drink and on his way to unconsciousness, and his wife was watching him to see when he will get completely drunk, and Caroline was as usual attentive to Darcy, and he was as usual ignoring her. Thus, only Darcy took notice of his friend's condition.
After breakfast was over, Darcy went to the library to meet his friend.
"Charles, why are you so nervous this morning?"
"Darcy! I am going to propose to Miss Bennet today, and I am worried."
Darcy was thinking that Miss Bennet's family was not the best for his friend, but as usual he kept his thoughts to himself.
"Why are you worried, friend?"
"What if she does not accept? What if her father does not accept? What if she does not love me as much as I love her? What if ..."
"Stop it Charles! You know her feelings towards you, don't you? From the way I have seen you talk to her, I can think you should be very sure of yourself and about her!" If I can only be so sure about the feelings of another... But why am I thinking of her feelings? It doesn't matter. I will not marry her, my pride will not take it. Forget it Fitz.
Bingley was pleased by his friend's assurances, and soon afterwards, they both left for Longbourn. Bingley was thinking of his Jane, and Darcy was thinking of Wickham and what he might be up to this time.
At Longbourn ...
Jane and Elizabeth were both nervous about the gentlemen's visit, but for different reasons. As soon as the gentlemen entered the house, Mrs. Bennet came in a hurry to her daugthers' bedchambers.
"Jane... Lizzy... Your suitors are here. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy! Oh girls, you are not ready yet? My nerves... get ready this instant."
When they finally descended, Mrs. Bennet managed to get rid of all her other daughters, and suggested the two gentlemen to take a walk with her two eldest, which they readily agreed to. Elizabeth was ashamed to no end for her mother's obvious scheming.
As they went out of the house, Mr. Bingley and Jane walked at a slower pace than Darcy and Elizabeth. After a short while, the two couples found themselves alone.
Bingley was pleased to be alone with his lady, and soon began inquiring after her health. They talked lively for some time, before Bingley could gather his courage and ask the important question.
"Miss Bennet, it has been some time since I knew you, and now I know you enough and know my feelings towards you. I know that I love you, and that you are the only woman I want to spend the rest of my life with. Would you please agree to marry me?"
Jane of course agreed, and they continued their leisurely walk, talking and dreaming of their future together. They agreed that he should seek the approval of her father during the course of the day, and they even discussed the ball that Mr. Bingley was planning to give at Netherfield the following week.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Darcy were having a completely different kind of conversation. Elizabeth was still confused by what Wickham told her the other day, and was determined to know the truth from Darcy. After some trivial talk, Elizabeth suddenly said,
"When you met us yesterday, we were forming a new acquaintance. I believe you are already familiar with Mr. Wickham?"
Darcy's face blackened as he said, "Indeed I am."
Elizabeth's curiosity won over her better judgment. Unable to restrain herself from being frank with the man she loved secretly, she said,
"Mr. Darcy, I have known you for some time, and, excuse me for being this open with you," she blushed as she said those words, "But I found you to be a truly polite gentleman. I was however greatly disturbed by what Mr. Wickham had to say of you yesterday, and I do not know what to think."
So the snake has been telling lies about me already....
"And what did Mr. Wickham tell you exactly?"
She told him everything Wickham narrated, except the last bit of information about his being engaged. Mr. Darcy was very angry at the end of her narrative, and he barely controlled his temper.
"I am sorry, Miss Bennet, if this knowledge gave you any uneasiness. I am amazed at how Mr. Wickham twists the truth."
Again Elizabeth found her courage to ask, "so what is the truth, Mr. Darcy? I know it is none of my business, but I was very disturbed last night, and if you do not tell me, my mind will not be at rest for a long time."
Mr. Darcy did not know why he was affected, but he could not bear to have the woman he loves think poorly of him due to Mr. Wickham's lies. After he regained control over his temper, he told her about his dealings with Mr. Wickham. He told her that Wickham was the son of his father's steward, and that they were raised together, though he discovered some bad manners in his friend early. He then told her about the terms of his father's will, and how Wickham gave up his right to get the living for three thousand pounds, at the pretense of studying the law, and how he wasted the money and came back to him three years later asking for the living, which he did not get. He chose not to tell her about the incident last summer with his sister, since he did not want to stain his sister's reputation.
After that story, Elizabeth was greatly affected. There was no question as to whether she believed him. She was however angry with herself for putting him in a position to defend his honor, and proceeded to apologize to her companion,
"Mr. Darcy, I am sorry that I put you through all these unhappy memories. Sometimes I let my curiosity get the better of me," and she blushed deeply. Mr. Darcy could not remember when he last saw a more beautiful sight. Control yourself, man! She is not in your class. Stop these thoughts now...
"Do not worry, Miss Bennet. I think I would have had to tell the story anyway, since he is now in the neighborhood. I do not know whom will the neighborhood believe. It is his word against mine, though I have all supporting documents."
Again Elizabeth found herself blushing as said, "the neighborhood knows you for a while, and likes you a lot, Mr. Darcy. They could not believe him over you! But make sure they hear your side of the story if you know Mr. Wickham was telling his tale. They will believe him eventually if you do not contradict him."
Darcy was impressed by her wisdom, but again controlled his sentiments with a will of steel. They continued their walk for some while, until they were interrupted by another pair. Mr. Collins had Mrs. Bennet convince Lydia to take a stroll with him in the gardens, and they were again having one of their two one-sided conversations! When Mr. Collins saw the nephew of his noble patroness, he could not control his tongue for the next fifteen minutes. And the two couples returned home after he ended his speech, to hear the good news of Bingley and Jane.
Meanwhile, two evil minds were thinking of plans to do some damage. Mr. Wickham and Miss Bingley were both thinking of ways to get what they wanted. Wickham wanted to destroy Darcy, and Caroline wanted to destroy Elizabeth, and Jane if she could manage it. Wickham did some investigations, and knew where he should go, and Miss Bingley was his target.
The days following the engagement between Jane and Bingley were happy days in Longbourn and Netherfield. It would have given this author great pleasure to report that the happiness was shared by all, but this, unfortunately, was not the case.
Mrs. Bennet was, of course, happy beyond bounds. Mr. Bennet was also happy for his daughter, though sad that he will lose the company of one of the two daughters he can bear to talk to. Elizabeth was glad for her sister despite her own disappointed feelings, and tried with all her power to hide her anxiety from her sister. Bingley is going to be her brother-in-law, and that might throw her much in the company of his friend. She knew she was going to die as an old maid, since she cannot marry someone she does not love, and she cannot love anyone other than Mr. Darcy.
On the other hand, Mary was not affected at all. Kitty was indifferent as well, except at the prospect of having a ball on the following week. Lydia was too occupied in making fun of Mr. Collins that she thought she never had a better time in her life!
In Netherfield, it was unfortunate that only Mr. Bingley was happy about the match. Caroline was her usual resentful self. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst were indifferent. Mr. Darcy, however, was another story altogether. He felt his friend is marrying beneath him, and for that he was sorry. He was worried that Jane did not love his friend. He also felt sorry for himself since he could not have the happiness his friend obviously possessed these days, since he could never marry the woman he loved. And his sadness was aggravated by the silly remarks Miss Bingley was throwing his way, trying to make him talk to his friend out of his engagement. It was ridiculous to hear Caroline talking about her dear Jane while at the same time trying to separate her from her brother.
Each day of the week preceding the ball, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy would come and call on Longbourn in the morning. Mrs. Bennet let Jane and Elizabeth have their walks with them, and talked to Elizabeth at every possible chance about the art of catching a husband. She was however too content at the success of her eldest and the approaching engagement between Lydia and Collins to spend too much time harassing Elizabeth!
Four days after the engagement, two couples were having a walk in the grounds of Longbourn. The engaged couple were far away, completely occupied with each other. The other couple, Darcy and Elizabeth, were having a nice conversation.
"I hope you are well, Miss Bennet."
"I am. Thanks, Mr. Darcy. I hope you are well too. You do not seem to be getting much sleep these days." Of course she blushed as she discovered her slip of tongue, and Mr. Darcy again fought hard against his emotions. How did she know I am lacking sleep? Does she know I dream of her?
"I am trying my best, Miss Bennet!"
"And how is your friend? Is he happy about his engagement?"
"As you can see! I have never seen Bingley more happy in my life!"
"I can say the same about my sister. Do not worry about your friend, Mr. Darcy. Jane loves him dearly, though her modesty does not let her show it."
It is as if she reads my mind. "I am glad to know that, Miss Bennet! I see that we may have another engagement soon, with your youngest sister and your cousin!"
Elizabeth did not have the courage before to talk to Mr. Darcy about his own engagement to Miss de Bourgh, but in this talk of engagements, she found her courage at this instant and said,
"And I think I owe you congratulations for your own engagement, Mr. Darcy."
Darcy was surprised, and replied, "My own engagement? Please tell me, who gave you that information?"
Elizabeth was embarrassed as she said, "Mr. Wickham told me about your engagement to your cousin, Sir, and Mr. Collins confirmed it."
"But I am not engaged to cousin Anne. It is only her mother Lady Catherine who believes so."
Elizabeth did not know why this information affected her so, but she knew she was happy that her beloved was not attached. Not that she hoped he might possibly be attached to her, but it made her feel better nonetheless. She tried to change the subject.
"Since we mentioned Mr. Wickham, what did you do about the story he is telling about you?"
"We dined with the officers two nights before. Mr. Wickham was conveniently absent, and the others asked me about this tale. I could not but tell them my own version of the story, and they were shocked to hear it."
"So is his commander going to fire him?"
"I do not think he is. But he promised he is going to be more careful."
Elizabeth was relieved that his reputation was saved, but she did not say that aloud. The only evidence of her relief was the soft smile on her face, which of course caught Mr. Darcy's attention. He again had to fight against his own emotions.
They continued their walk, and talked about many things. He talked about Derbyshire, his childhood, his sister, his education and his friends. She told him about her own childhood and her life at Longbourn, and about the books she liked and the ones she disliked.
When they parted, Elizabeth knew for certain that she will not love anyone but him, and felt sorry for herself. But she told herself to try to get as much time in his company as she could, since these moments with him may be able to sustain her through months of separation. He, on the other hand, was very much affected, and he was sure beyond any doubt that he loved her.
That night, Darcy retired early from the company of his dreamy friend and the silly sisters, and lied in bed thinking about his love.
He knew he should not marry her. She was beneath him. His family pride will not allow it. He had told himself this fact so many times that he was sick of it. He now remembered a conversation he had with his father, fifteen years ago, about the family pride.
"Son, you should be proud of who you are. You are a Darcy, and your family is one of the greatest in the country. You should not behave in any way to disregard your family pride.""So what should I not do Papa? When will my actions hurt the family pride?"
"If you are dishonest, you will hurt the family pride. If you are rude, you will hurt it. If you do not do your duty, you will hurt it. If you marry beneath your social circle, you will hurt it."
"But what if these contradict? I mean, what if my family pride forced me to so something dishonest?"
"Your honesty is your most important quality as a gentleman. You can afford to hurt your pride a little, but you absolutely cannot afford to be dishonest. Never be, son, at all costs. Never lie, and never be dishonest, and never be rude, even if you have to hurt your pride a little! But you will not have to, son!"
Darcy now was in a situation in which his family pride will force him to be dishonest to the woman he loves. As he remembered his father's words, he knew he had to marry Elizabeth. It was the honorable thing to do, despite his objections to her family and connections. He can hurt his pride by marrying beneath him, since it was the least of the two evils. If he did not, he would not be honest with himself or with his love.
Before he went to sleep, he decided to propose to Elizabeth on the day of the ball. He was very happy with that decision, and thought that nothing can come in his way. He did not doubt that she regarded him highly. He even had some suspicions, by the way she looked at him and blushed in his presence, that she felt more for him than she showed, just like her sister and his friend. And he was certain that he could make her love him sooner or later. Darcy slept soundly that day, dreaming of a beautiful smile on the face of his Elizabeth.
However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be if he knew what "modern men" do in the twenty-first century in similar situations, his honor would not leave him any other way of action than to perform that abominable task and save that lady's reputation.
It was with this knowledge that Wickham went, five days after the announcement of Jane and Bingley's engagement, to meet the not-very-well-liked Miss Caroline Bingley!
Wickham was greatly distressed when he knew that his officer friends knew the truth about him and Darcy, and decided to get his revenge. He made some investigations in the neighborhood, and he found out, after bribing some of the Bingleys servants, that Darcy hates Caroline the most among all the ladies he knew. Wickham nearly died from laughter when he heard this story from one of the maids at Netherfield.
"Sir, the master's friend, the always polite Mr. Darcy, could not stand the mistress. How he keeps his countenance when she is present, I do not know. But I once saw him ... I did not mean to intrude ... but I saw him walking towards the stables ... I think he was sure there was nobody around ... But he was hitting the wall too hard with his fists and saying: Take this Caroline! Next time it will be your face. You should learn to SHUT UP! I think the mistress really got to his nerves as she does to all of us. He never says a cross word to anyone, and this is the only time I heard him behave in such a manner! You will not tell this story to the mistress, will you? She will kill me if she knew!"
Tell her? No, I am not a fool. I will try to saddle Darcy with the woman he hates most. Sweet revenge! And it can get better if I can distract the woman he loves!
That morning, the men had left early for Longbourn, and it was Wickham's chance to meet his enemy's object of hatred.
"Miss Bingley. Sorry to intrude on your privacy like that," he told her as he found her in the garden, going restlessly back and forth.
"And who are you?! I am in no mood for conversation now."
"Miss Bingley. Excuse me! I am here to help you."
"And what help can I get from a man like you?" she asked in contempt.
"I can get Mr. Darcy to marry you."
"WHAT?!" Miss Bingley was greatly surprised, and she did not try to hide it.
"As you heard me. I know you want him as a husband, and I know you do not want your brother to marry his current fiancee."
Caroline was stunned, but she did not deny these facts. She wondered how he knew that much about her, but she did not dare to ask. Instead, she said,
"But why do you want to help me? I mean, I do not know you at all! And what can you possibly do to help?"
"Take it easy on me, Miss Bingley. I am an old friend of Darcy, and I want his better interests. I want him to marry you since I know he loves you." Wickham did his best to keep a straight face at this last statement.
Again, Miss Bingley was speechless. Well, almost!
"Mr. Darcy loves me? MR. DARCY LOVES ME? And what is preventing him from asking for my hand?"
"I told you I am his friend, and I know he is too proud and will not consider marrying into a family like yours. Excuse me when I say this, but you do not have the proper connections, with your wealth coming from trade and all. But I cannot bear to see the poor man suffering from his own pride and letting the love of his life slip away from his hands." Again Wickham tried with all his might to keep a straight face as he said the last sentence, and keep his dramatical tone.
"And is that all you want? I mean, do you want to help me just for your friend's sake?"
"I will do anything in the world for Darcy, but a financial present from you will be most welcome. How much do you think marrying Darcy is worth? Ten thousand pounds?"
"What? Ten thousand? You ask for too much!"
"But you will have his ten thousand a year, in addition to Pemberley, and your brother will not marry the woman you do not like. Is it not worth ten thousand pounds?"
After some hesitation she said, "I guess it is. I will pay you when the deed is done. But how do you think we can do it?"
And hence Wickham proceeded to explain his plan. On the day of the ball, he will try to get Darcy to a secluded place, which will happen to be the same place Miss Bingley occupies. He will then try to get attention from the party in the house to their compromising position.
"But that is horrible, sir! I cannot live with such a scandal."
"No you can, and you certainly will. The ten thousand of your husband and your position as the mistress of Pemberley will shut up all your critics."
"I guess you are right. But how is this going to affect the engagement of my brother?"
"I have some information that Mr. Bennet is a very conservative man. He does not bear any lack of morals among his connections, and the scandal you will make, in addition to your being Bingley's sister, will make him refuse to let his daughter marry your brother." This part of course was made up by Wickham to get the money from Caroline.
Anxious to seize her chance to marry Darcy, she agreed with Wickham on a plan, and they settled all the financial aspects of their deal. All they had to do now is wait for the day of the ball. He agreed to come to the ball early in order to meet her and discuss final details of their plan.
"Two days, and Darcy will be mine!" Thought Caroline happily.
"Two more days, and I will have ten thousand pounds, in addition to having Darcy stuck with that horrible creature!" Thought Wickham, as he left Caroline with a huge grin on his face. "And I can try to get his Elizabeth as a wife, which will completely destroy him!"
Netherfield, November 24th, 1811 __My dear Georgiana,
I am glad to hear that you are in good health. I was indeed pleased to hear of your new lessons and improvements. It seems I will not be able to recognize you when I come back and see you! Mrs. Annesley seems to have an excellent effect on you. Please tell her of my regards and appreciation for her work.
I am still at Netherfield with Charles and his family, and we are all in good shape. I told you five days ago about the engagement of my friend to a Miss Jane Bennet. Charles is happy beyond limits, and I dare say that Miss Bennet makes an excellent match for him. She is very much like him in temper, and from what I saw, I think she has a high regard for him. We go to visit her at Longbourn every day, and the visits are usually very pleasant.
I am writing today to tell you of a piece of news that might surprise you. Whether it will be a good surprise or a bad one, it is up to you to tell! Your brother has decided at last to bring you a sister. Yes, I decided to marry! The lady's family and connections are not what I wished for in my wife, but I love her too much to care anymore. She is an excellent young woman, and I think you will love her very much. I cannot wait till I introduce the two of you! She is intelligent, lively, with a lovely sense of humor, and with an entertaining conversation. I can also tell you that she is kind and honest, and that she almost has no flaws in her character! This coming from me and about a woman is a strong statement indeed! And did I mention her amazing beauty? She is not beautiful in the standard fashionable way, but I think her beauty stems from her inside, from her heart. When you see her, you will know what I mean. I cannot wait to have you meet her, but I think I said that before!
I can no longer repress my love for her, and I no longer care that much about her connections. I know my family pride will be hurt, but I am sure it will be worth it. Thinking of my children having her beauty and integrity fills my heart with hope and Joy. I cannot wait till I ask her to be my wife.
Now you wonder that I did not ask her yet! But I will, in two days' time. Charles is having a huge ball at Netherfield, and I will seize my opportunity during the ball and ask her. I wished I was sure of a favorable reply, but I am not. I still cannot imagine someone to refuse my offer of marriage, but I think she is different from other women, and that is why I am a little bit afraid. You may think I am a little bit arrogant for this last statement, but you know how women are around me, and had you been in my place, you would have also thought in the same manner.
Enough of this talk, since I have to go now and join Charles for breakfast before we go and visit Longbourn. Oh, and did I mention my lady's name? I think not, but I would love to keep you in suspense a little while longer! You know I like some mischief!
Again, my regards to you and Mrs. Annesley, and I hope to see you soon.
Your Brother,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
Georgiana was thrilled as she read her brother's letter, which reached her on the night of the same day. Her brother sent all his letters to her by express as he did not want to keep her waiting for long. She felt all the excitement of soon having a sister, and could not contain her happiness. She wondered who that woman could be. Could it be Caroline Bingley? She did not know, but there was something in her brother's description that was not at all like Caroline. Well, perhaps not any part of the description can fit Caroline, but Georgiana could not bring herself to think of that! But men in love usually do not see things as they are. So it may be Caroline Bingley after all! Georgiana did not know why this thought made her lose her enthusiasm. She tried to think of other possibilities, and spent her night in nice dreams and some nightmares! (The latter including Caroline Bingley of course!)
Longbourn
The Bennets were all, save Mary, waiting anxiously for the ball. Even Mr. Bennet was looking forward to it, since his daughter's engagement will be celebrated on the occasion as well. Mrs. Bennet was her usual self. Jane was happy at the prospect of spending the whole night with her fiancé. Elizabeth was happy at the prospect of spending some time with her beloved, though she knew her love was in vain. Kitty was looking forward for some flirtations with the officers. Lydia was waiting for the fun she was going to have at the expense of Mr. Collins. She intended to make him the lasting laugh of the whole of Meryton, oblivious of the fact that her mother decided he was going to be her future husband. She went with him to Meryton that day to purchase him a "red coat", as he promised to get one to the ball!
And thus were the feelings for all of them, except for poor Mary, who had little enjoyment for balls, since she was never asked by anybody. Elizabeth at the present time felt more sentiments for Mary than she ever had before. Jane was leaving her, and she herself was never going to marry, since she cannot love anyone as much as she does Mr. Darcy. She felt that Mary was going to be her longest companion, and wanted to be on speaking terms with her at least. She felt some regret at her poor relationships with her younger sisters, and determined to make amends.
And so, when Jane and Elizabeth returned from their morning walk with the Netherfield gentlemen, Elizabeth went to the music room, looking for her sister Mary.
"Mary! I was looking for you, and I hope I can speak with you for a while."
Mary was annoyed that she had to leave the piano, but could not think of a single principle hurt by talking to her sister, so she answered coldly,
"I am here. What do you want?"
Elizabeth was hurt at the coldness in her sister's tone, but resumed her attempt nonetheless.
"Mary, didn't you notice we rarely speak to each other? We are sisters, so we should share some conversation every now and then."
"Nobody wants to speak to me. Go to Jane!"
"But I do want to speak to you! You never give me a chance! You never let me talk to you before, and tell you how much I love you!"
Mary was stunned. This was the first time anyone sought her and tried to talk to her, let alone say the word love to her. She was not as senseless as she seemed, but she was hurt by people ignoring her. She could not but be touched by such a declaration from her sister. She, however, could not bring herself to say a kind word to her sister, yet.
"Elizabeth! Why do you want to talk to me?"
"Because we are sisters. Because I love you. Because I am losing Jane and I will die as an old maid, and I cannot bear not to make peace with my sisters before that. Because you are a good person, who does not deserve to be left out of our conversations. Are these reasons enough, sister?"
Mary now surrendered to her sister's trials.
"Elizabeth, how I longed for someone to say any kind word to me, but none came. I am glad that you are talking to me now, but I did not believe that will ever happen!"
"Oh dear Mary! I know I am a bad sister! Will you ever forgive me?"
"I was a bad sister too, never asking about my big sisters!"
And the two sisters embraced. From this moment onwards, the two sisters opened their hearts to each other, and had a talk that cleared all their previous misunderstandings. After some time, Mary remembered what Elizabeth said about herself dying as an old maid and asked,
"But Lizzy, why is this sudden sadness, and what is this story about dying as an old maid? I may think like that, since I am not beautiful enough to catch a husband, but you certainly can catch one!"
And so Lizzy told her sister about her unreturned love to Mr. Darcy. Mary was again stunned, but she consoled her sister as much as she could, and told her some of the words Jane said before.
"Sister, you do not need to worry. You are a good person, and you deserve the best! I know today that you are one in a million, and I really wish you all the happiness in the world! But you will not remember your little sister when you are happy, won't you?"
And Elizabeth was satisfied with this turn of conversation. She and Mary talked after that about preparations for the ball, and Elizabeth convinced her sister to look forward to it.
Now that she has become friends with Mary, she looked for a way to get nearer to her two stupid young sisters. After the ball, I will see what I can do about those two, she thought.
Posted on Saturday, 12 August 2000
November 26, 1811
The day had come at last. Elizabeth woke up early in the morning with a strange sensation in her heart. She felt that a lot is going to happen that day, and she did not feel comfortable at all with that lingering sensation in her heart. She did not want to face her mother and her continuous talk about catching husbands, so she went for a walk.
Before she got out of the house, Susan, the five-year-old daughter of their housekeeper Mrs. Hill, saw her. The little girl asked her "favorite Miss" to take her along in her walk. Elizabeth loved children, and Susan was a favorite of hers. She could not refuse anything the young Miss Hill asked, and she was used to her companionship in some of her walks. The sadness that filled her heart about never marrying was partly because she will never have children of her own to spoil. But for the time being, she will be glad to spoil the little Susan.
When they were far enough from the house, Susan asked Lizzy to run after her, to which she complied. It was a wonderful day, and the air moved gently against the remaining leaves of the trees. The weather was perfect for a day so late in the fall. The sky was blue and clear, and the sun sent its gentle light on their two faces. They ran from tree to tree and laughed. After getting some exercise, Elizabeth held the little girl and raised her from the ground, and they laughed and chatted amiably.
That perfect scene was noticed by a gentleman who was hiding behind a nearby tree. Mr. Darcy, who wanted to escape the final ball preparations led by Miss Bingley, had taken his horse for a ride that led him near Longbourn. He tied his horse to a tree and decided to have a walk for some time before returning back to Netherfield. He was surprised and pleased with the happy scene before him, but could not show himself, since he did not want to cause his beloved any uneasiness. It took all his strength not to run and embrace her, and he barely kept his breath. He left the scene quickly, with a smile on his face. Today, this lovely creature will be mine, he thought happily.
Mr. Collins stood in the Longbourn drawing room, trying on his red coat. He looked more ridiculous than ever, if that was possible, as he was parading in front of Mr. Bennet in the red coat. Mr. Bennet was amused by the absolute silliness he was witnessing.
"Mr. Collins, why are you wearing that? It is a strange color for your profession!"
"Why, my dear Mr. Bennet! I heard my fair cousin Lydia mention that she enjoys the company of men in red coats, so I am here to oblige her! I promised her the first two dances in the ball, and I would like to have her enjoy my new red coat. I once heard my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, say that people should be attentive to their relations. Her ladyship told me before I leave that I had to make amends to my poor cousins, and I assured her Ladyship..."
He was prevented from completing his long speech by the entrance of Mrs. Bennet and her shrieks.
"Oh my poor nerves! I swear, Mr. Bennet, that your daughters will kill me on one of these days. They are not ready yet for the ball. Jane and Kitty are still asleep. ASLEEP, can you imagine that?! And Lydia and Mary are just waking up. Not that Mary mattered anyhow! And your dear precious Lizzy is no where to be found! That girl will be my quick route to the grave! How many times have I told her that she needs to be ready early for the ball, ..."
She was prevented from continuing her tirade by her husband.
"Mrs. Bennet! For sure you know that we have about seven hours before we start moving to Netherfield. Your daughters can be ready in such a long time, won't they?"
"Mr. Bennet, you teasing man! You know nothing of all what we ladies have to go through to get ready. For sure you are not considerate enough for my poor nerves. Oh my nerves! Ah, Mr. Collins," she said as she just noticed the presence of another gentleman in the room other than her husband, "Oooooh Mr. Collins! The red coat! I dearly love a red coat! Oh my nerves. Where is Lydia? Dear Lydia must be ready at once to see your red coat! Oh my nerves, LYYYYYDIAAAAAAAAA!"
And at this point, Elizabeth entered the room, her eyes bright and her clothes a little bit untidy from the exercise.
"Here you come, Miss Lizzy! What do you think you were doing! What will Mr. Darcy say when he sees such display from you! Oh, how are you ever going to catch him as a husband by your wild ways? Oh, I will be distracted!"
She was interrupted by Mr. Collins,
"But Madam, Mr. Darcy is engaged to her ladyship's daughter! I know this might be hard on my poor cousin, but you should not raise such false hopes in her heart. I know it is unfortunate indeed, but Mr. Darcy is my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh's nephew, and he cannot marry one of my poor cousins! Their station in life is certainly not bad, for I dare say Mr. Bennet is a very respectable man, but as my noble patroness Lady Catherine de Bourgh once said, the distinction between ranks need to be preserved! Why, I once heard her ladyship ..." he continued for about fifteen minutes in his talk, oblivious to the fact that his poor audience has left the room!
Outside the room, Elizabeth politely apologized to her mother for causing her any uneasiness, and went upstairs to wake Jane up.
Mr. Wickham woke up in a foul mood that morning. He had a talk with Col. Forester the previous night that he did not like at all. It seems that the Colonel knew everything about his dealings with Mr. Darcy, and urged him to stop telling his lies around. Those people always choose to believe Darcy because of his money. But today I will get my revenge! He thought as he headed to Netherfield to finalize his preparations for the ball with Miss Bingley, whom he had an appointment with at eleven.
At the appointed time, Miss Bingley walked towards a hidden path in the Netherfield grounds where Mr. Wickham was awaiting her. She brought him half the money they agreed on, and discussed with him the details of the plan. She should wait in the Netherfield library after the first two dances, and he will find a way to drag Mr. Darcy there. After that, it was left for her to get him close to her in a manner that is not very honorable ( Wickham suggested a couple of ways she can do that, but the author of this story will not repeat what he said! ). And while she was seducing Mr. Darcy, Wickham will get attention from some people to the library, so that people see the couple in their improper situation.
Wickham left the Netherfield grounds with a smug smile over his face. He was impatiently waiting for the evening to come. Behind a nearby tree, a pair of eyes were listening to the conspiracy in disgust, and in resolve to prevent any disaster from happening.
The Bennets were among the first families to arrive to the Netherfield ball. As soon as they greeted their hosts, Bingley claimed Jane and sat with her in one corner of the room, leaving the task of greeting the guests to his sisters.
Darcy greeted the family of his beloved with some warmth, though he could not prevent himself from sending a look of disgust towards one of Mrs. Bennet's shrieks. Though he hid his look as quickly as he can, this did not pass Elizabeth's observation which was sharp when related to the object of her love. She was a little bit hurt, both from Mr. Darcy and from her mother who was causing a scene by boasting Jane's engagement to Lady Lucas. Mr. Darcy, however, was unable to remove his eyes from Elizabeth's face. Her complexion was as fair as he witnessed that morning, and he was anxiously awaiting for a chance to talk to her in private.
At the beginning of the first two dances, Mr. Bingley claimed the hand of his fiancee, Mr. Collins - in his new red coat - claimed Lydia's hand, and Kitty was claimed by one of the officers, a Mr. Denny. Caroline Bingley went to a back door to let Mr. Wickham in, and then went with him to the library for their final preparations, without the knowledge of everyone in the party except for one person. Mr. Darcy remained beside Elizabeth and Mary. The latter soon noticed the anxiety of the gentleman to talk privately with her sister, and so she gave Elizabeth an encouraging smile and left to sit next to the piano.
That left Darcy and Elizabeth alone. Elizabeth sat down on one of the chairs, and Darcy walked back and forth in front of her, as nervous as anybody in his position could be. He was almost sure of a favorable answer from Elizabeth, but he still had some uncertainty that made him uneasy. On the dance floor, Lydia and Mr. Collins were quite a scene!
When Darcy gathered his courage, it was almost at the end of the second dance, and Elizabeth was nervous from his continuous movement in front of her, as well as from the display by her sister and cousin.
"Miss Elizabeth! I have to tell you something I needed to for some time now," he said in an agitated voice.
"Pray continue, Mr. Darcy," she said, afraid of what is going to come. Is he going to tell her about Anne de Bourgh?
"I have to tell you how ardently I..." but the poor man could not continue his declaration, since at this very inconvenient moment, a servant interrupted him and told him he was required by Miss Bingley at once in the library. "A matter of emergency," he was told.
Darcy was angry beyond words, and it took all his strength not to release his anger on the poor servant. It had better be something really important, or you will be sorry dear Caroline!
"Excuse me, Miss Bennet. I will have to continue our conversation later tonight," and with that he left a confused and a bit scared Elizabeth behind, and he headed towards the library.
Lydia and Mr. Collins were quite a scene on the dance floor. Mr. Collins was a poor dancer, and his red coat made him look more silly than ever, if that was ever possible! Lydia had originally agreed to dance with him so that she and her officer friends can make fun of him, but at the moment all the officers were otherwise engaged, and left her in mortification. Mr. Denny was dancing with Kitty, and Mr. Carter was nowhere to be seen. Other officers were dancing with the Meryton ladies, and Lydia was left to the entertaining company of Mr. Collins.
While they were dancing, Mr. Collins stepped a few times on Lydia's feet. Lydia's laughs at his silliness gradually changed to tears, and she left Mr. Collins in the middle of the second dance when she was not able to take it any longer, causing all the officers and her sister Kitty to laugh at her, much to her dismay. She was in such a foul mood for the rest of the night, so frustrated that she did not accept to dance with any of the officers.
Darcy was extremely vexed when Miss Bingley's servant interrupted his proposal to his Elizabeth. What a timing, he thought.
He was heading towards the library in quick steps, when he was interrupted by an unexpected person...
Flashback: Earlier that morning
Colonel Forester was extremely worried since the day he heard Wickham's story from the nice Mr. Darcy. There were many reasons for him to believe Darcy over Wickham. Mr. Darcy was nice and polite, and Mr. Wickham seemed insincere. Mr. Wickham only told stories, but Mr. Darcy had evidence to support his side. It seems that the general opinion of the neighborhood was that Wickham is only telling lies.
The Colonel's problem was that he was stuck with Wickham as one of his officers, and that is a situation he did not want to be in. He hated non-disciplined officers, and thus a liar as one of his officers was not at all welcome. He would be more than happy to get rid of him. But how? This is what was worrying him since the day he heard Mr. Darcy's side of the story.
This morning he reached a decision. He could not turn Wickham away without a good reason, and so he had to find evidence of any mischief done by him. So, he called one of his most trusted officers, Mr. Carter.
"Yes, Sir."
"Lt. Carter, you know of course what Mr. Darcy said about Mr. Wickham."
"Yes, Sir,"
"And do you believe Mr. Darcy or your fellow Wickham? Give me your sincere opinion, and do not be afraid."
"Mr. Darcy, sir."
"Good. That is my opinion too. I want to get rid of Mr. Wickham, and transfer him to another regiment, or better yet, to jail."
"Yes, Sir. But how?"
"You should keep an eye on him without letting him take notice. You should start this morning once he wakes up, and follow him wherever he goes. If you find any evidence of mischief on his part, let me know and we will follow the procedures."
"Yes, Sir."
And with that command to follow, Mr. Carter left his Colonel. When Mr. Wickham went that morning to meet Miss Bingley and discuss final preparations for their conspiracy, Mr. Carter was hiding behind a nearby tree and heard everything. He returned later that afternoon to tell the Colonel about what he heard.
"He received five thousand pounds from her, to put her in a compromising situation with Mr. Darcy, and force him to marry her?" The Colonel asked to confirm what he just heard.
"Exactly, Sir."
"Poor Mr. Darcy! We should not let them succeed in their plan, Carter. But we cannot catch Wickham red-handed unless they try to do the deed. What do you think?"
"I do not think we can risk Mr. Darcy's reputation, Sir. Wickham can wait for another time. Perhaps if his plan with Miss Bingley failed, she will cause a scene and we may be able to find something to get rid of him."
"Good. So I think you should keep an eye on Darcy, and stop him from being alone with Miss Bingley."
"I will do, sir, but will you allow me to make someone else do it, so that I can keep an eye on Wickham?"
"And who could that be?"
Carter's face became red as he said, "A lady!"
"So you want to have an opportunity to talk to her? I wonder who is that lady who caught your fancy?! But I will not press you to reveal her name. Do as you wish, Carter!"
"Thank you, Sir." And he left his officer to talk to the lady of his dreams about the events of the night.
Back to the ball
"Mr. Darcy!"
Mr. Darcy was surprised at the person who was addressing him. Mary Bennet was not the sort of person to talk to him, or to anyone else, uninvited, if she talked to anyone at all. Her calling him was indeed a surprise.
"Excuse me, Miss Bennet. But I need to go to the library at once. An emergency! Why don't you keep your sister company?" He said, pointing to Elizabeth, whom he was forced to leave in the middle of his proposal.
"Mr. Darcy, please. Do not go in there. You do not know what is waiting for you inside."
"And what could that be?" Darcy asked with renewed interest.
Mary proceeded to tell him all what Carter told her that day. Darcy was surprised beyond belief, but he was flattered to see that he was worth ten thousand pounds to Miss Bingley!
"But I could not just ignore her in her current state without raising suspicions! What do you suggest?"
"How about catching her in her guilt?" Mary suggested.
"But how?"
Mary proceeded to tell him of her and Carter's idea.
Miss Bingley placed herself on one of the chairs in the Netherfield library, disgracefully under-dressed. Wickham himself saw the final details of her current situation, and sent the servant to fetch Mr. Darcy, before going to get enough spectators to cause a big scandal. He told her to throw herself at Darcy as soon as he enters the library so that he would not have any chance to escape, and when people come to the library they were to see the scandalous scene.
Minutes passed and Miss Bingley became more nervous. What is delaying Mr. Darcy so? Didn't the servant tell him it is a matter of emergency? She still did not like her current state of attire, and nothing but the thought of herself as Mrs. Darcy in her beloved Pemberley made her stay with so little clothing. What will my friends in London say if they see me like this? she wondered.
After what seemed for her like eternity, the library door was opened and Mr. Darcy entered. As soon as he set one foot inside the library, Miss Bingley threw herself at him and started to ... um... What was wrong? This is not what I expected... she thought. As facts of her current situation registered into her mind, she screamed, "Wickhaaaaaaaaaam! You $#$#%^$!"
To those readers who are wondering what happened, we will return ten minutes back in time...
Mary told Mr. Darcy about what Carter knew of Wickham and Caroline's plan, and she also told him of a plan of theirs. Wickham wanted people to come and see Darcy and Caroline after Darcy entered the library, so that she can accuse him of attacking her, and so that he will be forced to marry her. But what if Darcy brought witnesses with him?
Darcy interrupted Bingley while he was dancing with Jane. The worried look on Darcy's face convinced Bingley to come with him as requested. Darcy also fetched Mr. and Mrs. Hurst. Mary went to fetch Mr. Bennet, who was surprised at being addressed by her that he agreed promptly, and she also brought her sister Elizabeth. The group met at the library door, and then Darcy ventured his entrance...
"Wickhaaaaaaaaaam! You $#$#%^$!" Caroline screamed, as she saw who was in attendance to her little scene. Mr. Bennet was amused, and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst were scandalized. Mary held to her sister Elizabeth who was too disgusted with the glimpse she saw that she did not want to see any more. However hard she tried, she could never reconcile herself with the fact that Mr. Darcy is going to be eventually with another woman, and the scene before her was too much to take, as it reminded her of what she feared most.
Charles Bingley was a man of happy manners and forgiving disposition. He was seldom angry, and when he was it did not last long. However, his emotions at seeing his under-dressed sister throw herself at his friend can be well understood. For the first time in his adult life, Bingley found himself in a situation in which he was forced not to be so gentleman-like.
"Caroline! What in #$%^ do you think you are doing? I never imagined that you can stoop this LOW. You owe me an explanation, and NOW! And what does Wickham have to do with anything?"
Caroline was so frightened at seeing her brother screaming for the first time in her life, that she began telling the whole story...
Meanwhile, in the ball room...
Wickham was grinning at the scene he expected to be happening now in the library. He assumed Darcy to be there by now and went on to fetch some officers and some local people, like Sir William and Mrs. Philips, who were known for their gossiping abilities. He did not go many steps in their direction, however, before being stopped by a hand on his shoulder.
"It is over, Wickham," he heard his friend Carter say.
"What are you talking about?!" Wickham said, pretending not to know.
"You know, Wickham. Come with me to the library, now."
And so they entered at the same moment that Caroline was in that part of her story about the five thousand pounds she gave him.
"THAT IS THE $#$#%^$ I was telling you about! Give me MY money back, $#$#%^$! Our little scheme did not work!"
It was quite a scene in the library, full of angry and not-so-polite words from Miss Bingley and Mr. Wickham, as well as the unexpected source of Charles Bingley, who found the need to utter some scandalous words for the first time in his life. Elizabeth and Mary left with their father, and pretended to enjoy the remainder of the ball. Mr. Hurst and his wife took Caroline away from the library to get her something decent to dress in, and the men - Bingley, Darcy, and Carter - were left to deal with Wickham. He eventually agreed to give Bingley his sister's money, and to leave the Meryton militia, in return for not having Colonel Forester report his actions to the higher-ups in the army.
After the ball
Darcy sat on his bed, unable to sleep. The events of the night were too much for him. He was just proposing to his beloved, when he was interrupted by Miss Bingley. I am glad Bingley sent his sister to London tonight. I would not have been responsible for my actions if I saw her again! Ugh... no more orange dresses for some time! But in addition to the pleasant sight of the departing Miss Bingley, he was thinking about how to approach his Elizabeth again, and what exactly should he tell her. He pondered on these thoughts until he fell asleep.
At the same time, Elizabeth lay in her bed, though sleep did not show any signs of coming any time soon. What was Darcy going to tell her? The look on his face, as well as his starting words before being interrupted by Miss Bingley's servant, were greatly puzzling to her.
"I have to tell you how ardently I..."
I what?
I hate you? Impossible! He could not tell me he ardently hates me!
I am engaged to Anne de Bourgh? Not very likely! Why does he have to tell me that? And where does "ardently" fit in?
Ardently?
Does she dare to hope that he... feels something for her? Even a fraction of what she felt for him? He told her he is going to visit the next day to resume their talk, but it was too long for her to wait. She got very little sleep that night.
Longbourn
The morning after any ball was usually a noisy one at Longbourn. However, this time it was worse than ever, with many events that happened so quickly.
After breakfast, the Bennet sisters were sitting in the drawing room around their mother, when Mr. Collins asked for his "fair cousin Lydia" to show him a part of the Longbourn garden he has not seen before. Lydia was very reluctant to go with her cousin after the humiliation she suffered at his hands at the ball, but Mrs. Bennet practically forced her to go.
After about half an hour, a red-faced and extremely furious Lydia came back to the room with Mr. Collins right behind.
"Mama! Help! This fool asked me to marry him!" Lydia shouted to a shocked audience. Although all her sisters were shocked at the scene, Mrs. Bennet had a very different reaction.
"My fair cousin! Your humility and modesty captivates me more every minute! I cannot wait till you become my wife!" This was of course Mr. Collins speaking!
"Mother, can't you see! I told him I cannot marry him now or ever, but he keeps following me like a faithful dog! I cannot stand it!"
Mrs. Bennet was furious as she heard of her daughter's rejection of an offer of marriage.
"What! You REJECTED him! Oh my nerves! And I thought you are my favorite daughter! How dare you do this to me! You MUST and you WILL marry him as I am telling you."
"No, I will NOT! Papa will not agree to such a marriage!" Lydia said as she ran to her father in the Library, followed by Mrs. Bennet. Mr. Collins was left standing in the drawing room in front of his surprised or amused cousins.
"Isn't she great! I cannot wait till she becomes my wife. Lady Catherine will like her very much!"
In the library, it was very noisy for poor Mr. Bennet as Lydia and her mother both spoke at the same time trying to explain the situation and their respective stands. After several minutes, Mr. Bennet began to comprehend and stopped his wife and daughter.
"SHUT UP, both of you," he shouted. "Let me tell you what I understood from your nonsense. Lydia, you got a proposal of marriage from your cousin Mr. Collins. Right?"
"Yes, Papa! But I do not want to marry him!"
"And Mrs. Bennet, you insist on her marrying her cousin. Right?"
Mrs. Bennet answered, "Of course she must marry him, or I will never speak to her again! What can she be thinking to refuse such a marriage that will save us all from being thrown to the streets after you die! I do not know what happened to you Lydia! You were my favorite daughter! Now even Lizzy is better than you! She did not cause me such vexation. Even she would not have refused such an offer! Mr. Bennet, you must force her to marry him! Use your parental authority this once for my sake!"
Mr. Bennet was thinking as his wife spoke, and he was considering different options. He knew that Collins was extremely silly, and no sensible girl should be thrown to be his wife. On the other hand, Lydia was equally silly and wild, and her behavior and flirtations were beginning to affect the family's reputation. She cannot be described as a sensible girl. And she had a bad effect on Kitty, who followed her in whatever she did. But should he get rid of her by marrying her to Collins? He could not be so heartless. After a while, he made his decision and spoke.
"Ok, both of you have now made your cases. Lydia, you do not want to marry this man. Will you do anything to prevent this from happening?"
"Yes, father! Even if you tell me to stop buying any more hats!"
Mr. Bennet was exasperated at his daughter's silliness.
"Ok, I have one request from you. If you do as I tell you, I will not give my permission for your marriage!" He waved his hand to both of them not to interrupt him. "You will not be allowed to go and visit the officers, or to speak of them or their red coats at all from now on. And you will behave yourself and stop your flirting ways, and learn more grace from your older sisters. Am I understood? Do you agree?"
"Papa! How can you say so! I will die if I do not see the officers again!"
"Then it is settled. Mrs. Bennet, you have your way on this. Lydia will marry Mr. Collins. Send him in."
Mrs. Bennet was ecstatic as she dragged her daughter behind her and went to the drawing room to send Mr. Collins to her husband. Lydia calmed down a little as she thought that a life with some chance of seeing officers, even if she was to be Mrs. Collins, is much better than giving them up altogether and remaining under her father's roof. She reconciled herself with this fact, and after a short time of gloomy thoughts, she began planning for her wedding with her mother.
"Proposal? How did I get there?" he wondered. Yet he knew very well the answer. Miss Elizabeth Bennet was everything he wished for in a woman, and more. Her intelligence was obvious in her sharp sparkling eyes. Her wit was abundant in her entertaining conversations. Her virtue and modesty were captivating as she shyly blushed. Her liveliness was apparent when she walked or played. Her knowledge in many issues was much better than almost all men of his acquaintance. Adding her beauty to the equation did not hurt either. In short, he was fascinated by everything she represented. Her only defect was not of her own doing, but that of her family. He was prevented for long by his family pride from overlooking her lack of connections, but his rational mind and heart both won over his stupid pride. What can a man ask more than what she had?
In the carriage ride to Longbourn, Bingley noticed his friend's occupation. He was afraid that Darcy was still offended from Caroline's atrocious scheme.
"Darcy, I must again give you my deepest apologies for what my sister did yesterday. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me."
"Charles, what are you talking about?" Darcy asked with a dreamy smile on his face. Charles was shocked to see his friend in such a state.
"Darcy... wake up! I was apologizing for Caroline's behavior. Do you remember what happened yesterday?"
Darcy finally understood what his friend was saying, and replied, "Do not worry, Charles. There is nothing for you to apologize for. It was not your fault that your sister did what she did. I hope you will forgive me for not telling your sister a long time ago what I thought of her. Maybe that will have stopped her from going to such measures!"
"But Darcy, you are always the gentleman! You never spoke a rude word to anybody in your life. I saw you struggling several times in the last few weeks with what you had in your mind about Caroline, and I cannot blame you. I am so sorry I put you in such a position when I invited you here."
"Charles, do not mention this again. You did me a great favor by inviting me here."
Charles Bingley had some suspicions as to what his friend referred to, but preferred not to talk about it. They continued their trip to Longbourn in companionable silence.
When the two gentlemen entered Longbourn, they were received by a very happy Mrs. Bennet telling them the good news about Lydia. Jane and Elizabeth looked to each other in horror as their mother talked on and on about Mr. Collins and his position, Lydia and her luck, and her wishes for her other daughters to get married soon. Gently, Jane told her mother that Lydia needed to be attended to as she was going to visit her Aunt Phillips and tell her about her wedding.. She suggested a walk with her fiancé, his friend and her sister, which was accepted by all parties as very convenient. Mrs. Bennet left to accompany Lydia to visit Mrs. Philips, followed by amused and disgusted looks from Bingley and Darcy.
Soon enough, Mr. Bingley and Jane were far ahead of the other two, which was exactly what Darcy wanted and Elizabeth dreaded. She saw how he looked at her mother earlier and felt bad about it, though she knew he was right. He did not say his opinion about her family to anybody, but that did not let her feel better about it. She knew in her heart what he felt, and was saddened by it. He did not tell anybody his opinion because he was too polite, she thought. She was also waiting with anxiety for him to continue what he started the previous day in the ball, before he was interrupted. What was he going to say? I ardently What?!
Seeing his companion's uneasiness, and thinking of his incomplete speech last night, Darcy gathered his courage and started.
"Miss Bennet! Last night I was trying to tell you something before the ...er... events that transpired with Miss Bingley. In the last few weeks, I was blessed with making your acquaintance. My regard for you increased on each passing day. I cannot go on much longer without telling you how ardently I admire and love you!"
Elizabeth's face was a deep shade of red, but a faint smile appeared on her lips, which he considered encouragement enough. He continued his speech...
"I love you with more feeling than I ever thought it possible for another human being. I hardly contain myself and my feelings as I speak. Your virtues are too many that I cannot count them all. You are modest, intelligent, witty, lovely, beautiful, full of life, full of goodness, ..." he stopped for a few moments to compose himself, "I cannot count all your virtues now, and I am not flattering you. I never was the flattering type. I cannot go on in my life without you by my side. And I think I am selfish to ask you this, but Miss Bennet, will you marry me?"