Section I, Next Section
Posted on Sunday, 20 May 2001
Elizabeth Darcy is a cheerful and happy woman. Why would she not be? Lizzy has a husband who adores her and lives within twenty miles of her most beloved sister. The sisters regularly visit and this is always a pleasant way to pass a visit. What better mistress of an estate as grand as Pemberley could there be? Mrs. Darcy has a quick wit, and open personality that is inviting and pleasant. All this combined with her overall beauty makes her a very desirable friend and gracious benefactor. Mrs. Darcy spends a great deal of time with the cottagers and the workers wives and dispenses medicines and food and a kind ear to the wives. She is loved by all within her reach.
Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy is less agreeable on first acquaintance but through the influence of his wife this is changing. Although he will never be spoken of as open and friendly by any new acquaintance, he is no longer thought of as proud and considering himself above his company.
Miss Lizzy Bennet was determined to hate him after he appeared proud and disagreeable. He would not ask her to dance though gentleman at that particular ball were scarce and many ladies were forced to sit out including herself. Mr. Darcy was so unguarded in public that Elizabeth Bennet overheard him informing his friend that would not stand up with the second Miss Bennet at the ball as he would not give consequence to ladies slighted by other gentlemen.
Time spent in the same house did not assist Miss Eliza Bennet's feelings toward her future husband. This time however did lead Mr. Darcy to think fondly of the second Miss Bennet and was grateful that they were to be separated so that she would not see her power over him.
This love, though gradual, that Mr. Darcy harboured was not to be easily gratified. The situation of the Bennet family was not in favour of their union. Mr. Darcy is rich, and the Bennet family estate is entailed away from the daughters of that family. Although the father of the future Mrs. Darcy is a gentleman, her other relations are lawyers and in trade. Mr. Darcy could overcome these objections, especially if they are not immediately before him. His aunt would not overlook these objections, especially as she intends her daughter, Darcy's cousin to be the next Mrs. Darcy and mistress of Pemberley. Add to this the wish of his friends sister to be the next Mrs. Darcy, and Lizzy's open abhorrence of Mr. Darcy, his first proposal was less than well received.
The realisation of their own faults and Lizzy seeing beyond the apparent pride and reserve in Mr. Darcy, led them to the alter, despite the interference of his aunt lady Catherine, and Miss Bingley. Time, a proposal refused and confessions of the truth led to a better acquaintance and led Fitzwilliam Darcy to Lizzy and taught them each a great deal about themselves and the other and they met, after a bumpy ride, in a deep love.
It is eighteen months since Elizabeth and Jane Bennet were married to the two most eligible bachelors that had passed through Meryton in a decade. Jane and her husband Charles Bingley have just moved to an estate near Pemberley and life could not be much better for the sisters. They have husbands who love them and live near enough to see each other regularly. As Jane had prophesied, only Bingley and Lizzy were more dear to her than Darcy and each couple had pleasure in the company of the other couple. It is on one of these regular gatherings that Jane announces that she is to have child. After a great deal of discussion on this joyous news, the conversation naturally moves to the not so celebrated Bennet daughter who is to have an addition to her family. The sisters discuss, with a great deal of hope on the part of Jane, and worry on the part of Lizzy, the coming confinement of their youngest sister, Lydia Wickham, with her first child.
After paying his attentions to her sister Lizzy, Lydia eloped with Mr. Wickham under circumstances that all in the Bennet family, but Lydia, wish to forget. Mr. Wickham had accumulated a great many debts in Meryton, and when his regiment went to Brighton he increased this total. Lydia was travelling with the wife of the colonel of the regiment and when Mr. Wickham was in need of leaving under cover of darkness, he found a willing companion in the shape of Miss Lydia Bennet. Although he never intended marriage, as marriage was to be his way of gaining his fortune, a few loose promises was all it took to secure the company of the silly and ignorant Lydia Bennet and Mr. Wickham would not refuse company when it was offered. Mr. Wickham had not considered the possibility of the interference of Mr. Darcy in securing the marriage and linking his future with Lydia. Her marriage did not give Mrs. Wickham the sense that she lacked as Miss Lydia Bennet, and it did not cause any great change in the character of her husband.
The union of Mr. and Mrs. Wickham has led, as these things do, to Mrs. Wickham expecting the arrival of her first child in one month and Mrs. Bingley and Mrs. Darcy are concerned about how the mother and father are to be responsible for a child when they are not of independent means and often rely on assistance of her richer sisters in discharging their debts.
Although the Darcys and Bingleys know no good of Lydia's husband, Mr. Wickham, it is the sister to Mrs. Bingley and Mrs. Darcy that is to have a child. What Mrs. Darcy and Mrs. Bingley know of their sister's husband, they believe their sister will need the support that only they can give. They are also aware of no improvement in her mind or temper since her marriage. Lydia Wickham eloped in a most scandalous manner and is married to a man who can be charming and endearing where he chooses though he does not choose it with regard to his wife. Lydia is his wife due to the interference of Mr. Darcy and Mrs. Wickham is not worthy of his charm and pleasantries.
Although Lydia thought them in love, she soon learned that Wickham's love for her was merely his love of company, and her love of him was little more. They are however now married and about to have their first child. Mrs. Wickham is at home while her husband is away enjoying whatever diversions he can find. His attachment to the unborn child must be limited by his growing dislike of his wife.
Jane Bennet was the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet of Longbourn. Jane was the pretty on with a gentle nature and sweet temper that all admired. While others will see the difficulties ahead, Jane sees the best possible outcome and happiest resolution for all concerned. Mr. Bingley, who married Jane, is also of a kind nature and this trait in husband and wife supports the other.
While Jane has full knowledge of the nature of the character of her sister and her husband, she has the optimism and faith that they will be fine and the addition to their family will bring them together, stop the wandering eye of the husband and the selfish ways of the wife and give both a good degree of sense. Lizzy hopes that Jane is correct but is very sure that this will not be the case, and the addition will be a burden that will be borne with little good humour on the part of the father or mother. This conversation has happened many times between the two eldest sisters and it is because Jane wishes to see the felicity the baby brings and Lizzy wishes to relieve some of the burden that they have resolved on travelling north to visit with their sister in the house that she could not afford without the help of her two eldest sisters.
Mrs. Bingley and Mrs. Darcy decide that they will both travel to greet the newest Wickham into the world. Neither of their husbands have the time at the present to accompany them, but do not object to the scheme as the sisters will travel together, and Mrs. Darcy can be stubborn when she has decided on a plan of action so for Mr. Darcy to object would only bring a disharmony between them before the journey. Mr. Bingley is not happy with the scheme, for although he would not deny the sister the company of his wife, he does not like Mrs. Bingley travelling in her new state (for the reason of her condition, Bingley almost prevents his wife from travelling to her sister, almost). It is resolved that the ladies will travel together, greet baby Wickham and return in two months.
The sisters are to leave in the morning and Mrs. Bingley is to stay at Pemberley until they depart for the village that is their sisters current residence. It is always a sad time when a man is to be separated from the wife that he loves, and even more so when she is carrying his child, and potential heir. The Darcys have a love that is so strong that their parting was to be painful for both. It is the first time either couple have been separated for more than three days since their marriage. The imminent parting of the ladies made the evening a quiet and less than happy time, even Georgiana Darcy was affected by the departure of her sister in law, so she too was quiet and withdrawn.
Georgiana was quiet and upset at, not only the departure of her sister in law who is as close as any sister could be, but the reason for the trip. Elizabeth travelling to the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Wickham brought memories of her life in times gone by. Both ladies, loaded into the Darcy carriage with, what the gentlemen thought to be enough provisions for a trip twice the duration and distance of the proposed one, with tears in their eyes said their final farewells and departed Pemberley.
Mrs. Bennet, mother to Mrs. Bingley, Mrs. Darcy and Mrs. Wickham has always suffered a nervous complaint and this was further encouraged with the impending birth of her first grandchild. Her nerves are in such a state that she is unable to travel with her eldest daughters to her youngest. This arrangement is to the relief of the elder sisters and the distress of the younger. Mrs. Bennet is, however, visited by her eldest daughters while they are on their way to the house that Lydia is residing in with her husband.
Mrs. Bennet supplied her daughters with clothes and other baby things and a letter of congratulations for her youngest, and always favourite daughter. Lizzy and Jane were to send word the instant that the child was born, and they were to have Lydia write as soon as she was recovered. Both thought this to be an unnecessary request for an office they could not fulfill. Their sister would write or not at her own convenience and the influence of her elder sisters is little likely to have any affect on the headstrong Lydia.
Lizzy and Jane arrived at their sisters home after the birth of the child. Lydia was confined nearly three weeks before it was expected so Lizzy thought their arrival many days before the child was expected would be more than any of sister would be comfortable with. The baby was a fit and healthy young girl who cooed for her aunts. The child was only hours old when she was introduced to her aunts. After visiting with the child, Jane and Lizzy made for their sister's chamber, only to find her delirious and with a fever. She went through times of coherence, and acknowledged the presence of her sisters, but was not able to converse with them for long as her fever and delirium would claim her. This continued for days. On the fifth day Lydia told her sisters that the child was to be named Catherine for her sister. After the request for the name of Catherine no sense was to be had from the mother. Mrs. Lydia Wickham died eight days after the birth of her daughter, Catherine Wickham.
George Wickham visited once in the time after his child was born and before his wife died and once again after the death of his wife. At the first visit he saw the child, was told it was healthy and left. The second visit he was told that his wife had died. He quickly calculated that his sisters in law would take the child, and he would lose the financial support of his wife's sisters. For over a year, Mr. George Wickham had depended on the supplement to his income and the assistance that Mr. Darcy had given with advancing him in his occupation. As both were fully acquainted with his past wrongs, and even Jane was convinced that he hadn't changed and wasn't trying to change, Mr. Wickham saw no point in trying to maintain the relationships. Using uncontrollable grief as a reason he left the house with a barely civil adieu.
Mr. Wickham expressed little concern for his wife and less for the welfare of the child. It was left to Elizabeth and Jane to procure the services of a wet nurse and a nanny for the child. Lizzy was glad for the child that the father did not attempt to use the baby for gaining his fortune from the child's relatives, but Lizzy did not doubt that he would attempt to use the child at a later time.
When Mr. Wickham left his home and it was presumed that he went abroad. To Elizabeth and Darcy this was no surprise as they believed he still held out hope that he would make his fortune by marriage abroad, where he is not known. The death of his wife was an opportunity for one of his moderate means and inviting character to depart England for the continent and seek a rich widow. His daughter was of no interest to him. These opinions were not far removed from the thoughts that occupied Mr. Wickham at the time of the funeral.
Although George Wickham attended the funeral of his wife, he would not see his child and did not care to be told the child's name, or have any contribution into the future of the baby who bore his name. Mr. George Wickham was not seen again in that neighbourhood after the burial of his wife.
Lizzy and Jane saw to all the arrangements for their sister and her belongings were sent to Longbourn and her mother, or sold. Lizzy and Jane departed that house, bound for the home they grew up in, where Mr. and Mrs. Bennet still reside - Longbourn.
Once at Longbourn, the infant was settled a doting mother quickly transferred her affection and favoritism for her youngest daughter to her grandchild. Elizabeth wrote to Darcy and Jane to Bingley. Both letters told the same facts but the telling was different.
Where Jane's wrote to her husband "I do not blame my brother in law for his reaction to my sister's death. He was obviously to strongly affected to turn to the child at present. I am sure that he will come to collect her before much time passes." Jane was all affection for her parents family and even her brother in law Wickham.
Lizzy wrote a less descriptive letter, that although expressing her wish of seeing her husband soon, and returning to their happiness, Lizzy knew that her husband would not wish to hear of her brother Wickham and would less like to hear about the child. Both sisters wrote to inform their husbands that they were going to stay in Longbourn until the fate of the child is decided and their mother was over her current fit of nerves. Each assured her husband that it would not be necessary for him to join her at Longbourn as they would be home soon.
The shock of the death of her favourite daughter sent Mrs. Bennet into the most severe case of the nerves that anyone could remember her suffering. This state was too much for her heart and it gradually failed her. Mrs. Bennet died two months after the arrival of her granddaughter at her home. Many believed that the presence of the child is all that kept her for those two months. Mrs. Bennet had insisted that Catherine sleep in her bed chamber and was close at hand in the waking hours.
The eldest sisters decided to remain at Longbourn a little longer as their father's house was in confusion. Although Mary and Kitty remained there, neither had the experience or inclination to manage a household. The elder sisters instructed Mary in the ways of the household and remained to support her as she began her new endeavours. Although she did not wish to leave her music and books, under the instruction and guidance of her sisters, Mary excelled in managing a house and her greater economy than her mother pleased her father. Kitty was grieving for her sister with such depth that she was of little assistance to her sisters or her father. The death of her mother had little impact on Kitty. The elder sisters were shocked at the loss of their mother but both recovered enough to ensure that the baby and the household were able to continue. As Mary was all that was proper in her grief of both her mother and sister. Mary was never close to any of her sisters, or her mother but they were her family and it is proper to be sad at the death of so near a relative, and her sadness lasted as long as she thought proper. She was sad at the loss of both of them, but she knew she would go on, and she secretly believed her niece would be better with any other of her sisters, except maybe Kitty, than with Lydia.
Both Jane and Lizzy thought it strange that no response from either husband was received by post, as both are such devoted husbands that this was indeed unusual. Lizzy, with anger building at her husband, resolved on writing again to inform him that although she did not expect him to attend her at Longbourn, she did expect that he would at least write during their separation. Darcy's correspondence was not something Lizzy was very familiar with as they were never long apart, but even a brief not in her husband's hand would bring her some cheer in this unhappy separation, and assure he that he still loved her.
Just as she sat down to that very task, Lizzy heard a carriage. On looking out the window she recognised the Bingley carriage. Her first instinct was to curse Darcy for not writing or coming with his friend, but before this thought was clear in her head, the door swung open and her husband and brother in law were announced. The minute the servant withdrew, Lizzy flew to the arms of her husband who she hadn't seen in nearly three months. This open affection was not unusual for the Darcys in private, and Bingley had been witness to it on rare occasions, but on this occasion he felt the need to interrupt. Jane was not in the room as he had been informed she would be and he longed for his wife as much as Darcy did. On disengaging herself from her husband, who was embarrassed by the interruption as it reminded him they were not alone, Lizzy quickly informed Bingley that his wife was in her chamber resting. Bingley hurried from the room as quickly as his good manners allowed. Darcy quickly moved to close the door to the chamber and then he went towards his wife, and neither couple were seen until tea.
At first Lizzy was worried for Darcy to be surrounded by her family again, as he was when he was courting her. On this occasion, however, she had little to worry about as, after the initial shock of his arrival, her relatives, including her vulgar aunt Philips, were more concerned with fluttering around baby Wickham, and sharing condolences with the Bennet family. Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley spent a great deal of time hunting, sometimes with Mr. Bennet, or in London on business. While still spending with their wives every minute that their wives could spare them. The arrangement of Bingleys and Darcys staying with Bennets was uneventful for two months. Although the gentlemen were anxious to have their wives to themselves (and in their own homes), they understood the situation and they are both so totally devoted to their wives that they would not question their judgment as to the necessary length of this stay. If business called the gentlemen to London, they only remained away a week at a time.
The Bennet estate is to be entailed away from the family who currently reside there, but the person who is to inherit should be mentioned. Mr. Collins is a clergyman and cousin to Mr. Bennet. After the death of his father, Mr. Collins felt drawn to the Bennet family to heal a breach that existed between his father and Mr. Bennet. Mr. Collins kept himself very acquainted with the situation of the Bennet family and he felt that the best way to heal this breach and offer amends to the family was to select his bride from the household. When Lizzy refused him, Mr. Collins married Miss Charlotte Lucas, friend of Elizabeth. Charlotte married Mr. Collins knowing he was a silly man, and moved to the parsonage at Rosings (lady Catherine's estate) after the wedding.
Even Mr. and Mrs. Collins and their not yet 2 year old child James arrived at Lucas Lodge while the Darcys and Bingleys were in residence at Longbourn. Mrs. Collins was helpful in her assistance and genuine in her condolences for the losses of the family and both Jane and Lizzy were happy to see their childhood friend. Charlottes husband Mr. Collins was a less appreciated addition to the neighbourhood. Mr. Collins was everything insincere and impolite. He felt called to share that the death of Lydia was the correct end to her unpleasant elopement and the addition of the child was of concern, given her parentage. Mr. Collins was quick to suggest that the child should be removed to some distant relatives home where it could grow up as a servant or become a governess with no claim to family. As he had expressed in the past, at the time of the elopement of Lydia and Mr. Wickham, he truly believed that the death of Lydia would be a blessing compared to the loss of her character through the affair.
Mr. Collins' comments vexed Lizzy greatly (as they usually do due to this mans belief in his own righteousness) and she was quick to remind him that the child's parents were married over a year before the birth of the child and a child is an innocent and this one had been baptized into the church therefore the sins of the parents are not those of the child. She further reminded him that the loss of two members of the family made the surviving family members less able to see visitors in their home. After many protestations of his honourable intentions Mr. Collins left and did not return until the day appointed for the departure of Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. To ensure this absence, Mrs. Collins arranged it so her father would entertain her husband by visiting those most likely to appreciate his words and suggestions. In the regions of Meryton, there lived more than sufficient people eager to converse with a man of Mr. Collins' limited education, but rarely was he invited to return. With words from the Collins' on the day appointed for the Bingleys departure, Jane was convinced that, as her child was safe and not expected to arrived for another two months, she could easily remain where she was for another month. Mr. Collins had shared his knowledge that a woman is perfectly able to travel within days of the expected arrival of the child. Expressions on the face of Mr. Bingley showed his concern at this prospect. He just wanted to get his wife home to his home for the birth of his child. As he had no particular knowledge of these matters, though he suspected that Mr. Collins was not correct, and his feeling that this was a very inappropriate topic of discussion, Darcy was quiet during this discussion. Jane showed that she too could be stubborn an decided to delay her return home by a month.
Jane's pregnancy was progressing and the concerns of the Bennet household and estate were too much for her in her delicate state. Lizzy had tried to convince Jane that it would be best for her to return to home with Mr. Bingley, but Jane was always concerned for others more than herself and quickly owned to Lizzy that the welfare of the baby Wickham was to be of concern to everyone, and her own state was not unnatural and should not concern anyone. Lizzy left the conversation at this but was not happy. Lizzy and Jane supervised the care of the Wickham child and kept careful watch of how Mary dealt with the day to day running of the house.
This new challenge was perfect for Mary. Since the marriage of her sisters, she has been the constant companion of her mother. This now not claiming her time, and her needing to establish her position in the family again, gave her occupation that was not to lead to comparisons with her sisters but did use her detailed mind. Mary was happy and competent in this new occupation that left her sufficient time for her studies and musical practice but little time for anything else. Lizzy was not going to find a voice here to second her requests that her eldest sister return, with her husband to her home.
Four and a half months after the death of Mrs. Bennet, Kitty was recovered from the death of her sister, if not totally over it she was able to converse with the family and even see the baby whom she had earlier blamed for the death of her sister. When baby Catherine first arrived at Longbourn, Kitty could not look at the girl, touch her or even hear of her without crying with sufficient vigour to cause both her brothers in law to turn away. Gradually Kitty could hear of the baby and she continued to improve until this point. Kitty began to see the child, then play with her and even to love her, almost as if she filled the void that the death of Lydia had created.
Lizzy found Kitty thus engaged when she approached her about the situation of their eldest sister. Lizzy watched the two together and smiled at her sisters improving spirits. Lizzy addressed her younger sister "She is a beautiful child is she not?"
"Oh, Lizzy I did not hear you approach. Yes she is, it is such a shame that Lydia was not able to stay and see her grow"
"Yes Kitty, but she did see the baby and give her your name. I am sure that Lydia loved her from the moment she saw her" Lizzy was in fact not totally sure of anything that concerned her youngest sister. She saw no point in relaying the degree of delirium of her sister to Kitty as it would not serve any real purpose. Kitty was now able, barely, to contain the tears that well within her eyes each time she sees the child. Lizzy turned to the nurse and asked that she take the child and put her to bed. Kitty began to protest that she would undertake the office only to see that Lizzy wished to talk with her. Tears began to well in Kitty's eyes as the baby was taken to her nursery.
Kitty soon recovered herself, as the time it took to recall the tears was getting less each time she say baby Catherine, in some ways she feared that soon the tears would not come, and then she would forget Lydia. Lydia was Kitty's favourite sister, closest in age and temperament. Although Mary was also close in age to Kitty, Mary spent far less time with bonnets and trimming than she spent with books and music. Lydia was a spoilt child who led Kitty around and directed her mind. Although Kitty knew she would miss her sister dearly, she also knew that with Catherine in the family, Lydia lived on.
"Kitty I am concerned for the health of Jane and her child. She worries so much for us all so no room is left for concern for herself. She should be at her home with her own doctor around her and Bingley by her side"
"You are quite right Lizzy, just this morning she came down the stairs with such speed that I feared she would take a fall. How can we ask her to leave when so much has happened here and she wishes to ensure we are all well?"
"I intend to ask Bingley to insist upon their returning home" at this Lizzy could not help but smile to herself at the idea of Bingley insisting upon anything but fear for his wife and her unborn child would be a good and honourable thing to exert himself over.
Kitty also hid a smile at the thought of her elder sisters husband insisting on anything. Bingley is so gentle a person with so generous a heart that it is not expected that he could refuse or insist upon anything, even more so where his wife is concerned, maybe concern for his unborn child and wife's health will bring about the necessary firmness. "Yes I believe that Jane's departure would be for the best, Lizzy, but what of Catherine, where shall she live?" Kitty wished the baby near and hoped that her sisters would agree that the best place is in the Longbourn nursery where her mother and aunts had been as baby's. Kitty also knew that this was not likely as she and Mary had other things to occupy them. Mary had to keep house and Kitty had balls and other employments, such as finding a husband and visiting with her sisters. A baby is too much for herself and Mary at their time of life.
"It is not proper for her to stay with father, he too has had a loss and is in mourning, and a child needs a woman to care for her. In the short term, Catherine should come to live at Pemberley as Jane will be busy enough with her child" at this, Kitty began t
Now all Lizzy had to do was speak to Bingley about Jane, and Darcy about Catherine and Kitty. She had discussed the possibility that the baby would be her charge for a time. What Lizzy had not discussed with her husband was the method of conveying the child, nor that the baby and her aunt would attend Pemberley before the return of the master and mistress. The Darcy carriage would convey the aunt and baby to Pemberley, return to Hertfordshire and convey Mr. and Mrs. Darcy to Rosings. Darcy readily agreed to his wife's proposal. Mr. Bennet would be sorry for the child leaving, and this would be further worsened by the departure of Lizzy and her husband, who he had grown to respect and even like a little. Mr. Bennet enjoyed the silliness of his youngest daughters, and even liked the pretense of Wickham and how he simpered and smirked. In light of recent events, Mr. Bennet was changing his opinion of a valuable son in law and the intelligence and manners of Darcy and the openness and honesty of Bingley were beginning to be highly prized in a son in law.
Lizzy was able to persuade Bingley that the best place for Jane was at home. This was not difficult as, the mention of his wife's safety and the safety of the unborn Bingley was more than enough, as he had no particular knowledge of these matters he could not insist, but with the support of her family, Jane should surely not deny her husband the right to take her home. Bingley was ready to leave in the time it would take to call a coach. Lizzy assured her brother in law that it was not that urgent, and his growing family would be far better suited if the trip was better planned. It was decided that the plan should be presented to Jane at dinner where she would see that all were concerned for her.
When the topic became an issue at dinner, Kitty and Lizzy supported Bingley, Darcy was in London attending to business, he had left soon after his discussion with his wife, Mary was concerned with dressing of a dish and speaking to the cook about it, and Mr. Bennet, although wishing all could remain at Longbourn, acknowledged the wisdom of the proposal. Jane was left between feelings of gratitude for the concern all were showing to her, and concern for the child Catherine. After a little pressure from her sisters and a great deal of doting of her husband, Jane agreed to depart Longbourn within the week.
Jane's concern for Catherine was to be alleviated at the same dinner. Lizzy proposed that Catherine go to Pemberley, escorted by Kitty. Kitty was a little too emotional to speak much to the proposal but all understood her consent to the plan. Mr. Bennet, as predicted was sorry that so many of his family were to leave but saw wisdom in the plan. Jane was concerned for the affect of Catherine on the Darcy family, but Bingley expressed how satisfactory a plan it was and it can be reconsidered after the birth of their child. This would have to be enough for Jane as it appeared the family was in agreement. Mary was still greatly occupied by the dishes but gave her approval of the plan, followed by an adage that even Bingley was unable to listen to or understand.
Lizzy had discussed the plan with Darcy earlier and he had agreed that, although Georgiana may not take to the idea instantly. Miss Darcy did not have any like of the man who is the baby's father and she, mainly due to the writings of her aunt de burg, had no respect for the mother. In short, Georgiana would be bothered initially by the presence of the baby in her home but when it was explained that the infant is not her father nor mother, was in fact related to her sister in law (who Georgiana loves dearly) and may grow up into a fine young woman as her eldest aunts have done before her. Georgiana was silent for a while but would recover. Once the issues of Catherine were settled, the conversation changed between husband and wife to matters that are best left to husband and wife, as Darcy was to leave for London in the evening and will remain there for near on a week.
It was decided, Jane and Bingley were to leave in two days as the week that Jane had requested was too long for Bingley who was anxious for the safety of his wife.
The Collinses and the Lucases came to farewell the small Bingley family. Mr. Collins had compliments, platitudes and condolences to share with all those who would even pretend to listen. His wife, with their son about her feet, expressed her best wishes for a safe trip and for the coming of a Bingley child in a more appropriate way than Mr. Collins was likely to give. As a dear friend since childhood, Jane was deeply touched by the way Charlotte spoke. Jane and Bingley were sincere in their thanks for the kind words of Charlotte.
After the departure of the Bingleys, Lizzy was able to talk with Mrs. Collins alone, as Mr. Collins was entertaining Mr. Bennet with his stories of his patroness lady Catherine de Berg. It was a long time since these ladies had just been able to walk and talk together. Both were eager to share some news of a most personal nature. Lizzy had shared the news with her husband first, her sister next and her father and other sisters, then she wanted Mrs. Collins, her oldest friend, and neighbour of her youth to know that she was to introduce a Darcy child to Pemberley.
Lizzy was not aware that Charlotte was to share the same news. The friends laughed and cried and walked together until neither could walk further. They were outside the gates of Netherfield, the first home of Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, that was now let by a family who had introduced two young sons and four older daughters to the neighbourhood. The friends went to call on the eldest daughter, Miss Olivia Lancaster.
Miss Lancaster welcomed the ladies with a smile. She had been able to get very well acquainted with the people of this neighbourhood and until Lizzy, Charlotte and Jane came home, she had not been able to find a great deal of sense with the ladies. Miss Lancaster had a quickness of mind that left her alone in Meryton, much as Lizzy had been but she had her fathers favour. A young lady of seventeen had little opportunity to converse with ladies of intelligence and friendliness so the return of Mrs. Darcy of Pemberley (to whom many of Meryton compared Miss Lancaster) and Mrs. Collins was a diversion she hoped would be much to her benefit for entertainment and conversation. Miss Lancaster hoped that the visits of these ladies would often be repeated while they were in the area.
The three of them sat and talked for an hour. It was not right for the friends to share such intimated news as their happy condition, but they were able to talk of the news of Meryton and the people who came and the people who had left. After a brief visit, Charlotte and Lizzy left and departed for Lucas Lodge, the home of Charlottes family. Lizzy was met there by Kitty and Catherine, who had been visiting. The sisters and their niece ordered Lizzy's carriage and left for Longbourn.
Lizzy was tired and Darcy was still in London so she retired to her chamber and rested until dinner. Dinner was to be a quiet family dinner with only Kitty, Lizzy, Mary and Mr. Bennet. With no company, the formalities of ladies leaving first were dispensed with and Mr. Bennet accompanied his daughters to the sitting room as he was not in the company of his second daughter often enough. Mr. Bennet played chess with Mary while discussing Kitty's forthcoming removal to Pemberley with Kitty and Lizzy. Kitty had visited her sisters home in the past but never on such an important errand and never without master and mistress at home. Kitty was nervous, Lizzy concealed her amusement at Kitty's hesitation behind her assurances that all would be well.
With the morning mail, Lizzy received a brief note from her husband
Dearest ElizabethMy business delays me longer than I intended and will continue to claim my presence for another fortnight. Remain with your father and I will return to you as soon as I am able.
Your loving husband
Ten days after the arrival of the note from Mr. Darcy, at a quiet family dinner it was decided that Kitty and Catherine were to leave in the morning with the nurse. Georgiana had left Pemberley for Rosings, Lady Catherine's home, her aunt. Lizzy and Darcy were to meet her there in a little over a week and remain at Rosings for a month. Darcy always visited his aunt at this time of year before his marriage. It was on one of these visits that Mr. Darcy made his first proposals to while she was visiting with Mr. and Mrs. Collins.
Lady Catherine is Mr. Darcys aunt and almost his nearest relation, since the death of his father. Lady Catherine is a woman of breeding and property. She felt it inappropriate for Lizzy to aspire to the match with Mr. Darcy. Lady Catherine visited Lizzy in her family home in order to prevent a marriage that was not resolved upon by the bride or groom, although Mr. Darcy had made an offer to Lizzy which had been refused, lady Catherine was in no way of possessing this information. Lady Catherine attempted to extract a promise from Lizzy Bennet that she would never enter into an engagement with Darcy. Lizzy's character is known well enough to be sure she was not intimidated by the rank and behaviour of lady Catherine and spoke openly of her intention to act in her own best interests. This declaration fueled the fire in lady Catherine and she related the interview with Lizzy to her nephew with a great deal of emphasis on the impertinent and obstinate manner of the lady in question. This discussion had the opposite effect on Mr. Darcy and led to the marriage between the devoted and deeply in love Darcys.
Lady Catherine's prejudice about Lizzy and her desire to have Darcy as her son in law led to a tense time between aunt and nephew. At first the stubbornness of both prevented any form of reconciliation. Perseverance of Lizzy led to the communication building between Darcy and his aunt, and eventually they began to develop their relationship and the curiosity of lady Catherine as to the conduct of the new mistress of Pemberley - a station she desired for her daughter Anne.
Since the behaviour of the aunt at the time of the nephews wedding prevented any such visit last year, this visit would be the first that Mr. and Mrs. Darcy made to lady Catherine's home. Lizzy had not met with lady Catherine since she was engaged to Mr. Darcy. Although assured of her husbands regard, she was still wary of a visit that could give so little pleasure. As Lizzy had been so important in encouraging her husband to renew his relationship with his aunt, how could she now refuse the invitation to visit Rosings, Especially as Charlotte and Mr. Collins had returned to Hunsford and this visit would allow a great deal more time in Charlottes company.
Kitty and Catherine left in Lizzy's carriage in the morning, and Darcy arrived near midday. They were to remain only a week before departing for Rosings Park.
Lizzy and her father were in a sitting room when Darcy arrived at Longbourn. Rather than have a servant announce his arrival he went straight to his wife. On seeing Lizzy, Darcy's stern face melted, as it did every time he entered a room that was already with her presence. He had missed his wife, and after the news that she was carrying his child, he had barely had time to smile and he had to leave for London. Mr. Bennet saw the faces of his daughter and son in law and remembered some urgent business in his library. His departure was hardly noticeable to the lovers. Now they had time and could be alone, at least until tea when he would have to share his beloved Lizzy with her family.
Mr. Bennet was a complex man who was now in the unfortunate situation of losing his wife. His respect for her was not high, and during her life, his eldest daughters had seen little between their parents but barbs and ill humour. Now Mr. Bennet had his favourite daughter leaving him, his only grandchild on her way to live more than 50 miles away and he is left with one daughter in the house. Mr. Bennet is now looking to his library and his estate to occupy his time. Mr. Bennet abandons the thoughts of his daughter and granddaughter leaving as he has tea with his family to attend, and Mr. Darcy is always entertaining, he is so proud on the surface, so much in love with Lizzy and she with him. This was the dream for Mr. Bennet, that his daughters, especially Lizzy, would find husbands who love them and that his daughters would respect their husbands. Time spent with Mr. and Mrs. Darcy convinced him that Mr. Darcy truly loved and is loved by Lizzy.
The day of Lizzy's departure arrived and Mr. Bennet was sorry to see them leave, but they could not remain with him forever Pemberley is her home now, and it was to Pemberley that he was drawn more than any other place in England.
Lady Catherine was all that is courteous and proper in greeting her nephews wife. Although she is resigned to the marriage and acknowledges that Darcy loves his wife, she is not happy with it. Her new niece was not of the right breeding to be brought into her family and now she is a Darcy. Not the least of the objections is Mrs. Darcys relationship to Mr. Wickham. This is the man who was the son of Old Mr. Darcys steward, he refused a living in the church, and attempted to elope with Miss Georgiana Darcy, and did elope with Lydia Bennet and was forced to marry her, Darcy was instrumental in bringing the marriage about but lady Catherine does not know this. Now lady Catherine is informed by Mr. Collins, Mr. Wickham left when his wife died in childbirth and showed no interest in the child. Her new niece has relations who are not able to live through childbirth, and the child is now little more than a penniless orphan who is the child of that Mr. Wickham. All of this considered, Lizzy and Darcy thought it unwise to mention the arrangements for the child, especially as Georgiana was yet to be acquainted with them.
When not in the presence of Lady Catherine or her daughter, Georgiana and Lizzy could talk and laugh like true sisters. It was on one of these occasions that Lizzy decided to inform Georgiana of her condition and the arrangements for the baby Wickham. Darcy did not believe that these subjects would be better coming from him so engaged the office to his wife who had become close to his sister.
The happiness that Miss Darcy expressed at the news of her sister in laws condition was near equaled by the sadness the mention of Wickham's child coming to live with them. At first she refused to look at Lizzy for her tears, and then, as they walked they talked. Lizzy was able to acquaint Miss Darcy with the whole unfortunate situation surrounding baby Catherine's entrance into the world and Miss Darcy, although not overjoyed with the proposal, was able to assert her agreement to the plan and again return to happy overtures about becoming an aunt.
Lady Catherine would be another matter. This lady would not be so easily reconciled to the additions to the house Pemberley. Although the inhabitants of Pemberley were not governed by lady Catherine, Darcy could not totally disregard the opinions of his aunt without an internal struggle.
Darcy marrying Lizzy was one thing, but lady Catherine had secretly harboured hopes that a child would not result from this union and Darcy would realise that Lizzy was not what a Darcy should be and put her out. Lizzy was fearful that Lady Catherine's remarks about the shades of Pemberley being polluted by the addition of the Bennet family would be repeated with further additions.
On a number of occasions, Lizzy or Darcy, or the two together attempted to acquaint lady Catherine with the plans for the baby but lady Catherine was generally unable and unwilling to listen to others as her part in the conversation was always to be the dominant one.
On one occasion when Lizzy was alone with lady Catherine, Lizzy got so far as to say that the child was with her sister, but before she told the lady where they were located, lady Catherine had expressed her feelings about the child with no reserve for the feelings of one, such as Lizzy, who is so closely related.
"A child, an orphan of such parents as the son of a steward and a girl who eloped with the scoundrel and lived with him before marriage can have little hope of finding anyone who will care for them and perhaps it is better for the world if the child would be put in a workhouse with other orphans of questionable parents"
Lizzy spoke as she arose and left the room before lady Catherine could respond. "You must excuse me lady Catherine, but I cannot agree with your conclusions about my niece, and I must now return to my apartment" Lady Catherine is not used to being spoken to in such a way so took a minute to begin to speak. For love of the nephew Lizzy limited her response to the above.
On arriving at their rooms, Lizzy found her husband dressing for dinner. As there was time before the dinnertime, they went for a walk on the walk that was her favourite on her last visit to the region. While walking, and remembering when they were last there, and how their feeling have changed over that time, they moved back to the present and it was decided that lady Catherine would be told about the arrangements for the baby the following day. Once decided, Darcy embraced his wife, assured her of his love and then checked his watch. They were late for dinner and their hostess is very particular about her dining time. Husband and wife laughed and began the walk back to the house.
Lady Catherine was not happy. Her new niece had spoken to her with familiarity that was not to be borne and now that her nephew was late showed a lack of manners that is not usual for him. The influence of his wife must be to blame. It was with this in mind that Lady Catherine met the arrival of the Darcys. She would not speak to them at dinner, except the minimum that politeness would allow. She removed herself from the company of her guests as soon as she could and did not reappear for tea, and only sent a message to Miss and Mrs. Darcy that she was not well and would not join them that evening.
This behaviour from his aunt was new to Mr. Darcy. He was aware of the displeasure she felt as to his choice of bride, and he knew that his wife would not stand for abuse of any of her family, so the mention of baby Catherine Wickham would not be pleasant. Fancying herself not up to any company is not what the nephew expected of the aunt. For all her speeches and airs she now attempted to appear wounded by her nephew and his wife, or was she truly wounded by their decisions?
Darcy and Lizzy chose their time and company well when the information about Catherine was to be given. Darcy is to make the communication with Lizzy present. No other person is to be present as it would only lead to further distress for Miss Darcy and Miss Anne de Berg would not be of any assistance to their cause. The day after Georgiana had learnt of the situation, she and her cousin set out for a drive and Darcy and Lizzy chose this time. Neither the expected heir nor the other child arriving in Pemberley would give Lady Catherine any comfort; in fact both would gain her vocal disapproval.
Darcy began by addressing his aunt while she questioned him as to the management of his estates. (Although this is his business and in no way related to his aunt Darcy was not going to commence this conversation in any way that could prejudice his aunt against the changes to those in residence at Pemberley) "Lady Catherine" Darcy began "We are to make some changes to the long closed rooms at Pemberley" Lady Catherine looked expressively at Darcy and with a less pleasant expression at his wife and then asked
"Why would you do that? If your wife is not satisfied with the current arrangements at Pemberley then perhaps I should explain why my sister Lady Anne had it thus arranged, I can explain...
Darcy cut her off "There are two reasons that the mistress of Pemberley wishes to change the house but even if it were merely a whim and I have already agreed then you will not have any reason to speak in any such way to my wife." After a pause and a quick glance from the sweet face of his wife to the stunned face of his aunt, Darcy continued "we are to open the nursery."
"A child?" a pause "So you are to introduce a Darcy into this world. We can only hope that it will have all the look and actions of a true Darcy and not pollute Pemberley with anything less"
Darcy could no longer contain himself. His aunt had managed to insult his wife's management of her home, her family and her as a Mrs. Darcy. "The nursery has been opened for the niece of the mistress of Pemberley, and soon after the addition of a young Darcy will be made to the nursery. We will no longer discuss the management of our home or our lives with one, such as yourself, who is not connected, immediately to our family." With this Darcy took the arm of his wife and guided her to the rooms that are for their use.
They were followed by the voice of lady Catherine expressing her displeasure vocally and without any concern for whom she offends nor who hears her displeasure. After all, how dare they take in the child of Wickham and Lydia, the two who lived together before they were married, whose marriage was a patched up affair, the child from that union cannot be any good and should be sent to a home far from influencing the next generation of Darcys.
Darcy and Lizzy were both overwhelmed by the extent of Lady Catherine's rage and they decided to return to Pemberley in the morning. An immediate departure only stalled by Lizzy's wish to acquaint Georgiana with the situation rather than leave this to the rantings of the aunt. Although Georgiana loves her new sister, and is aware of the changes to happen at Pemberley, the influence of an aunt such as lady Catherine, in a state such as this was not the best of plans. Lizzy quickly convinced her husband that they should speak with Georgiana and letter her decide if she would travel with them or remain to visit the aunt.
On communication of the exchange, Georgiana elected to travel home to Pemberley with her sister in law and brother. Georgiana was genuinely happy for Lizzy and Darcy and would not enter into this discussion with lady Catherine. Georgiana feared her aunt too much to openly disagree with her so rather than endure a dinner of distress, she and Lizzy chose to eat in an apartment that had been allowed for Georgiana's use. Darcy wished with all his heart to join his sister and wife but Lizzy convinced him that to excuse himself from lady Catherine's table on the last evening of his visit would be difficult or even rude, perhaps he and his aunt could find a common view and the Darcys depart Rosings on better terms. Lizzy had mistaken the temper of the aunt and Darcy was pleased to leave the table and leave Rosings after an early breakfast.
Jane was confined soon after the Darcys return to Pemberley. Lizzy was visiting Jane daily and on the day of the confinement was with Jane. Lizzy sent word to the gentlemen at Pemberley, as Bingley was shooting with Darcy, that she would remain at the Bingleys home until the child was born. Lizzy did not ask the men to attend at a time such as this an expectant father and uncle who are nervous and anxious are the last people that either sister desired be in the room. On the servants return, Lizzy heard Bingleys voice, and that of her husband. It did not surprise either sister that Bingley returned home at first news of the imminent arrival of his child. A smile passed between the sisters before Jane was claimed by the expected child Lizzy was with Jane and would not leave so sent a maid to inform the men of the situation and return. The maid did this and on returning informed Lizzy that the men would remain below stairs until she sent for them.
The confinement was not long and Jane bore it with her usual patience and selflessness. The child cried out once and stopped breathing. The men heard the cry and were at the top of the stairs within moments, but the door did not open from the inside so they remained on the threshold. Jane began to weep softly and Bingley, on hearing his wife weep opened the door against Darcys protestations and those of the women within. Bingley moved to comfort his wife and saw the face of the midwife. Jane's colour was gone, Lizzy was at the point of tears and started to run from the room only to catch herself when she saw her sister. Lizzy quickly returned to her sisters side and gave what comfort she could. This was of course little comfort as she had not experienced the birth of a child or the loss of one. The midwife was as near to tears as Lizzy, the child in her arms, wrapped in a blanket, unwashed and growing paler by the second. Lizzy ran from the room and down the stairs. She ran passed her husband and followed her down the stairs. He caught her by the door, saw her face and embraced her. It was too much for Lizzy in her current state. She wept on Darcys shoulder for a full half hour.
When she had gathered herself, Lizzy untangled herself from her husbands embrace, he kissed her gently on the forehead, and she left to attend her sister. Jane looked at Lizzy as she, starting to be in a noticeably pregnant state entered the room, and cried. Lizzy went to her, embraced her and wept. Bingley was near tears at the death of his child and the grief of his wife, he was yet unaware that the child was a daughter. When Jane was asleep from exhaustion, in a quiet voice he asked Lizzy and she replied "a daughter" and could say no more without weeping.
Lizzy and Darcy left the Bingleys when the sun was rising the next morning. Lizzy said goodbye to Jane and the sisters parted weeping. Even Darcy was noticeably moved by the events of the previous day. He wished to be in his own home with his wife, sister and the child Catherine whom he was growing fond of, as if she were his own niece.
Catherine was moving about the room that Jane and Lizzy were taking tea in. Jane was tolerably better and able to visit regularly and even see Catherine. On this visit Catherine made a noise that sounded, to her affectionate aunts at least, like "Jane". Jane began to cry, collect Catherine in her arms and started to laugh. It was the first time in a long time she had laughed. She was not over the death of her daughter, but she was alive and had a husband, sister and niece who loved her.
After her months of residence, Kitty was beginning to be restless at Pemberley. She loved her niece deeply but was not able to dedicate her life to the service of the child who was now settled in her new home. At this time her aunt Gardiner had suggested a visit and Kitty graciously accepted. Lizzy did not oppose the plan as she had Darcy, Georgiana and Jane nearby. Kitty staid a further three weeks, she planned to leave within a week of the decision to go but kept giving excuses to stay. Although Darcy would have been happy to have her stay, and Kitty knew it, she also knew that she needed to be away from the child.
Kitty was torn between visiting her aunt Gardiner and staying with Catherine. Every fresh excuse to delay her departure was less convincing and Darcy, after speaking with his wife, decided to take the decision out of Kitty's power. Darcy came across his wife with Kitty, Georgiana and Catherine in the kitchen garden. After greeting his wife lovingly, he greeted his sister and sister in law, then addressed Kitty "Kitty, tomorrow after breakfast I am leaving for town. As I will be taking the carriage I am able to convey you to your aunt Gardiners home"
"Thankyou, but I was to visit Jane and am delaying my visit to my aunt accordingly. I was to write to her directly" Kitty went to leave the room as if the conversation was delaying her from writing to her aunt.
Lizzy took up the conversation "Kitty, I am sorry, I wrote to aunt Gardiner this morning as she is eager for you to visit. I mentioned that you would be there tomorrow as Darcy is going to call on Uncle Gardiner and he can convey you there. I hope that this is not a problem."
As it happened, this did not suit Kitty as she did not like her sister to take such a liberty. Kitty was silent for a minute, then realised that this is for the best. "Thank you Mr. Darcy, Lizzy, I will accept your kind offer and remove to aunt Gardiners tomorrow" Kitty went directly to her apartment to pack. Georgiana went to practice on her pianoforte leaving husband and wife to walk hand in hand with Catherine tottering along behind. They had only to wish that their child would be as healthy and happy as the child running along behind them.
After five months residence at Pemberley Kitty left the year old baby Catherine to her sisters family and nurses and left for London. Darcy returned to Pemberley within two days and was able to report that Kitty was enjoying the activities of town, although missing her niece.
Darcys sister, Georgiana, felt it necessary that Elizabeth's family be told of the danger. Darcy refused to leave her, even to fulfill this office, Georgiana volunteered and as he did not oppose her plan, she immediately left them so that the communications may be made. She first wrote to Jane, then Elizabeth's aunt and uncle in London, and her father. Sending such communications was new to Georgiana and she was not so intimate with all of Lizzy's family to be comfortable in writing to them, especially with this mix of good and bad news. With what had happened to Mrs. Bingleys child the letter was not easy to write and to write it to a number of people caused Miss Darcy a great deal of pain.
Six days after Elizabeth was confined, she still did not wake. Her fever dropped and Darcy was convinced to leave her for a little time per day, in order that he continue the running of his estates which had been sadly neglected. He had grieved for Elizabeth and believed that she had left him. On the very day of his leaving his dear wife's side, his aunt, Lady Catherine, arrived unexpectedly. It appears that she had heard of the fate of the mistress of Pemberley, undoubtable through the gossip of the Lucases with the Collinses, and felt it essential that she share her opinions with her nephew.
As far as timing goes it could not have been worse for the Darcys. Elizabeth woke two days after lady Catherine's arrival, and although weak, she was well. She could hear Lady Catherine in the hall. 'Now Darcy, I did warn you that to marry this woman would pollute the shades of Pemberley and here she is unable to be a mother to the children.' In Darcys weakened state, he had not the words to defend his choice, nor excuse himself to attend his wife, who he believes is still dying. 'Maybe this is for the best,' Lady Catherine continued, 'you will grieve the loss, and after the appropriate time has past you can fulfill the wishes of your family, marry your cousin and send the babies to the country and begin again as if the last years did not happen.'
At this he could no longer contain himself. Darcy stood, and left the room, and his home silently. Not two minutes after he had left the room Georgiana flew into it in search of her brother. She had come from his wife and wished that he may know that she is awake. after politely but firmly excusing herself from the questions of her aunt, Georgiana flew through the house in search of her brother to share the news that Lizzy is fine. Georgiana ran from the house and searched the grounds as best she could until dusk when she returned to find her brother still not returned.
As the aunt intends to remain at Pemberley, dinner was a quiet affair. Darcy had not yet returned, Georgiana was concerned for her sister-in-law and her brother. Georgiana had heard the professions of the aunt so had nothing more to say to her. Georgiana truly loves her sister in law and the thought of her dying or her children being sent away gave no comfort. This silence is almost enough to cause Lady Catherine to leave a note of congratulations on the birth of the children, as is civil, and leave for her home in the morning. Lady Catherine was not convinced that she would leave so soon, expecting her nephew home she decided to stay a week.
As his carriage rattled, Darcy closed his eyes and remembered the day his wife was confined. .....From outside the door to the chamber, Darcy could hear his wife's breathing, loud, deep and strained, she was obviously in pain. He remembered her sighs and he was sure that he would be allowed into the room, then her breathing sounded strained again. Darcy could hear her effort, the words of encouragement of the midwife and the sigh of relief, then silence.
The doctor spoke tot the midwife in quiet voice. Surely his child should be crying by now. He banged on the door and was answered by silence. The seconds dragged into minutes. He banged on the door again and this time it was answered by his wife's maid. She began to speak to Darcy but he heard nothing. Darcy only cared for the still figure of his wife on the bed. At the time he did not hear it, but now he remembers the servant mentioning children not breathing and then the babies screamed. The servant looked relieved, but Darcy was pushing past to be by the side of his wife. He did not care for the calls of the babies. His only excuse was fear for his wife.....Sitting in his coach now he realised he did not see the children. He had thought them dead for they did not scream instantly. Over the days following the birth of his children, Darcy became aware that he has two children but he cared not if they were boy or girl. Now he felt ashamed that he did not remain for her children. 'What have I done, I must return' he thought to himself. He tapped the roof of his coach and told the driver to return to his lodgings so he may plan a return home.
In the morning, the party at Pemberley was greatly increased. Although the master of the house was not home and the mistress was still in her chamber, the eldest sister and father of the mistress arrived. Both had been in dread of what they would find, as the notes they received were alarming at best.
All the notes Georgiana sent contained the same words.
Mrs. Darcy's confinement commenced three days ago. Two children were born, both are will and have nurses caring for them. I write instead of Mrs. Darcy as she has not awoken since the birth of her babies, she has not even seen them. She is still with us and my brother has not left her side. I do not mean to alarm you, but the doctor says that if a change for the better does not occur soon, we are to expect the worse. If you would wish to attend her, the doctor urges that you do it soon.
Armed with this message, both new visitors were worried that they may already be to late to be of assistance to Elizabeth. Jane ran quickly to Elizabeth's side, while her father waited for her to return. Jane spoke to Elizabeth and quickly returned to inform her father that he may see her. This he did with all the speed he could muster. Mr. Bennet conversed with Lady Catherine as little as was barely polite. His concerns for Elizabeth far outweighed the little respect he felt for this woman who despised his Elizabeth.
Lady Catherine was disgusted that such a display of emotion and movement be allowed in Pemberley. Her manners, however are very lax for she had not even sent her compliments to the mistress of the house in which she was now a guest. Lady Catherine was aware that Lizzy had awoken yet she had not even seen the children or sent a note to Elizabeth. Elizabeth's knowledge of her houseguest was due to information supplied by Georgiana.
Elizabeth slowly mended. Gradually she spent more time out of her rooms and with her sister, sister in law and father. Eight days after her arrival, Jane was required to leave and it was decided that she would take Catherine with her. Mr. Bennet, however remained as he could not bare to leave his daughter in this house with no husband to comfort her and spend time with the new babies. Nor could he leave her in a large house with the lady Catherine at every turn waiting to inform the mistress of Pemberley of her duties or inform her that she was not being the proper hostess, even if the guests were not invited by master or mistress. Mr. Bennet despised the woman who was guesting in his daughters home and only for Lizzy's sake did he show any manners to the lady who was taking over the household and directing the servants. Mr. Bennet, however deferred all decisions to his daughter or Miss Darcy, but Miss Darcy had not the confidence to contradict her aunt and as her concern was for her sister in law, niece and nephew, she did not worry over lady Catherine's actions.
Lizzy is moving around the home quite well now and Mr. Bennet had expressed to Jane a wish of having Catherine back at Pemberley. Jane is satisfied with the arrangement as she is again pregnant and has been advised to be quiet for the duration of her condition.
Mrs. Darcy was not in the sitting room when her husband arrived. A servant had informed him that his wife was well and this news was the best he had heard in a month. He barely heard the remarks of his sister or father in law. Darcy saw enough written on the faces of his guests when he entered the room to know he did not wish to hear the remarks that they made. Darcy was intent on finding his wife and seeing his children for the first time.
Darcy left the sitting room almost upon entering it. The remarks of his sister and father in law now echoing behind him. He climbed the stairs and moved towards his wife's bedchamber with the thoughts "what must she think of me, she gave me children and I desert her, leave her with my aunt" he turned to walk away, saying to himself "I am doing it again, leaving her, the woman who taught me to be humble, to love and..."
"Darcy, where have you been?" He turned to see his wife, the mother of his children and she was before him in an instant, calling to him. Darcy was unsure how to respond, he loves her, that he knows but there are other feelings that he cannot explain, a fear of what she thinks of him, unable to think of the words to say. He stands silent, a slight smile coming to his face as she moves to him and flies into his arms and weeps. They move slowly towards the room she came from, still embracing and Darcy begging for forgiveness, with every word, she holds him tighter. He falls silent and embraces her. Gently Lizzy pushes him away and he begins
"Dearest Elizabeth" Darcy was intently looking at the floor at this time, a demonstration of the humility that he had gained in his relationship with his wife. "I am such a wretch to leave you as I did. I do not deserve you" Darcy was so near crying at this stage. Lizzy remains silent, every part of her is crying out to run to him, embrace him and never let him go, but Lizzy can be stubborn and this man, her husband left her alone without a word. Darcy continued
"Eliza" taking her hand in his, she allows it but does not meet his eyes that are gazing at her with love and fear that she is angry at him beyond all hope of redemption. What has he destroyed. The love of his wife, his happy home and all for his pride. Lizzy had refused to marry him for his pride and selfish manner and here he had repeated this behaviour. "I am sorry, I left you and should not have. Can you forgive me? just tell me what you need, how can I convince you that I know I was wrong?"
Lizzy looked up into his eyes and saw the sorrow and shame that Elizabeth Bennet never thought that this proud, disagreeable Mr. Darcy would ever demonstrate, least of all to her. Their eyes met and she fell into his arms weeping for the time they had lost with each other and the children. Darcy knew that she would forgive him and the tears of sorrow and joy slowly flowed down his cheek.
When he released her, Lizzy knew that he loved her and missed her but she was still upset with him. "As much as I want to forgive you, I do forgive you, it is hard, you left me and your children."
His eyes had cleared but the sorrow was still there. Darcy pulled his wife to him and whispered "I am sorry, I love you"
"I know"
Once they are both recovered Lizzy takes her husband to the nursery. The last time he saw a Darcy in this room was his sister. Now there are three children at Pemberley, one is his heir and the other is his daughter... with this thought Darcy realises that his children are nearing four weeks old and he does not know if they are named, and if they are he is unaware of the names his wife has chosen. All thoughts of names disappears as he sees the babies sleeping. Catherine is at the back of the room with a small blue toy in her arms, curled up and asleep. The babies are on the other side of the room. Both asleep and both beautiful. Darcy wants nothing more than to stay in this room with his wife and the children forever. Darcy does stay, holding his wife, watching his children sleep, his life is perfect. His thoughts are as pleasantly engaged as the night he noticed Elizabeth's fine eyes at Lucas Lodge. He remembers this and a smile starts to form on his lips.
A tap on the door and Georgiana walking in brings his mind back to reality. Darcy straightens but continues to hold his wife around the waist. He says one word "names" and this brings Lizzy back to the present day too, her mind had been similarly engaged.
As neither husband nor wife say another word, Georgiana speaks "No they have no names as their father was unavailable" Darcy glares at her. She is correct but should not speak to her brother in that manner. Georgiana would not have dreamed of speaking to her older brother in that fashion before the arrival of his dearest Elizabeth. A smile begins at the corners of his mouth at this realisation, but the expressions on the faces of the ladies present show him that this is not the time and he quickly smothers it. Before Darcy can speak, Lizzy does
"Georgiana, your brother has just returned home and, although I need to talk with him some more, we are happy he is home. He has made his choices and had a lot to think about" Catherine stirs, wakes up and starts to crawl "Please take Catherine to the garden, I am sure my father is there and would like the visit". Georgiana looks expressively at her brother, she has gained a great deal of courage when speaking to her brother and Lizzy makes a mental note to speak to her about the way she speaks to her brother. Georgiana collects a sleepy Catherine in her arms and leaves the room.
"Georgiana has accepted Catherine, she seems to love her very well." Darcy says turning to his wife "I am truly sorry, my behaviour to you was unpardonable I left while you were ill without informing you of my journey. Please forgive me."
Lizzy walked away from her husbands arm saying "I heard you talking with your aunt, the day you left I was waking and I heard what she said. Did you need this time to consider what she said, after this time she still has such a claim on your mind?"
"I thought I had lost you. A man who felt less for his wife may have stayed in the house with the children who caused him to lose her, I could not"
"They are your children, and mine. If I were gone, they would be what you have left of me, and you would be all they have."
The look Darcy gave was between resignation that she was correct and the question, how could she talk so about her own passing and leaving him and the children behind. Darcy had realised in his travels that his children may be all he has left of Elizabeth and that seeing them even if they had killed her would be difficult but she would have died voluntarily to protect them and they were his children as well as hers. But how could she speak this way, aloud and to he who loves her above all things. As if reading his mind, Elizabeth continued "I have had days to think of what would become of my children if I had not woken. I knew you would love them if you just saw them, but would you see them if I weren't here?"
"I do I do love them, and I would do anything to protect them, not just because he is my heir (a look of pride crosses his face as he looks at his son) and my first born daughter (a look of awe and love floods his features as he looks at his daughter as she stirs as if to cry and then is reclaimed by sleep) but for you my dearest Elizabeth I would ......"
"And your aunt?"
"I called on her on my way home. (Lady Catherine departed Pemberley the day before Jane removed Catherine) I told her that you are a Darcy and my wife. The Children are my family and as I was unaware if there is a son, I told her that if there is one, or two sons, he is my heir. I then left and returned directly to find you well, much to my relief. I love you Elizabeth." As he moved toward her, Lizzy did not move away, she accepted his advance and smiled as she truly loved this man and he loves her. Once she was safely in his embrace, Darcy asked "Names for our children, they can not be the babies forever"
" Jane for our first born, our daughter and Fitzwilliam for our son" Lizzy stated as much as asked that these be the names of the children. It had been a month and they had to be called something by all the visitors and their mother. Darcy embraced his wife "The names I would choose" he said into her soft hair. She accepted his embrace and kisses and the love that flowed with them.