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Chapter 1

Soon their attention was caught by the very Mr Denny, concerning whose return from London Lydia came to inquire, and he bowed as they passed. Kitty and Lydia led the way across the street, under pretense of wanting something in an opposite shop, and fortunately had just gained the pavement when the gentleman turning back had reached the same spot. They entered into conversation and the whole party were still standing and talking together very agreeably, when the sound of horses drew their notice, and Darcy and Bingley were seen riding down the street. On distinguishing the ladies of the group, the two gentlemen came directly towards then, and began the usual civilities. Bingley was the principle spokesman and Miss Bennet the principle object. He was then, he said, on his way to inquire after her. Mr Darcy corroborated it with a bow, and determined not to fix his eyes on Elizabeth. He was not successful for long and was soon staring at her as intently as ever. This drew Elizabeth's notice and angered her. She was growing tired of Mr Darcy's intense scrutiny of her and it was beginning to make her uncomfortable. She decided to punish him by introducing him to Mr. Collins.

This turned out to be more of a punishment then she expected. Apparently Mr. Collins's patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, was also Mr. Darcy's aunt. As soon as this fact had been established, Mr. Collins went into a panegyric in praise of Lady Catherine. Elizabeth was surprised to see that Mr. Darcy was rather annoyed at Mr Collins's obsequious behavior. This was something to think about. She would have thought that his pride would have been gratified by such praise of his aunt. She was rather impressed with the way he handled Mr Collins. She now wished to apologize for exposing him to such obsequiousness but Mr. Collins never gave her a chance before the gentlemen departed.

Elizabeth was confused. Mr. Darcy's behaviour had been so different from what she expected. Perhaps she had misjudged him, but she wasn't sure. She found herself wishing to enter into conversation with him to find out.

A few days later, Mr. Bingley and his sisters as well as Mr. Darcy came to give their personal invitation for the long expected ball at Netherfield, which was fixed for the following Tuesday. Elizabeth was surprised that Mr. Darcy would come. She was even more surprised when he voluntarily entered into conversation with her. She was able to apologize for introducing him to Mr. Collins's notice. The apology was most graciously accepted and at the same time declared unnecessary.

When the visitors departed, Elizabeth was surprised to find that not only had she sat for a quarter of an hour with Mr. Darcy without falling into an argument but that they had actually had a pleasant conversation. They had of course spoken of nothing consequential but she had enjoyed herself and she thought Mr. Darcy had also.

Elizabeth was not more confused than ever. She found herself liking Mr. Darcy and she began to think that perhaps he looked at her not because he found something wrong with her but because he liked her. Was it possible that Charlotte was right, that Mr. Darcy admired her?

She had much to think about in the five days before the ball. As she reflected on her acquaintance with Mr. Darcy, especially the time they spent together at Netherfield, it seem as though he might admire her. But he had certainly not admired her at the assembly. Why would his opinion have changed. And then they always argued. She didn't know what to think. She hoped that he might ask her to dance at the ball that she might have a chance to figure him out. She would not expect it thought. She had already refused to dance with him twice and it was unlikely that he would ask again.

Finally the day of the ball arrived. Soon after Elizabeth entered the room, Mr. Darcy approached and politely inquired after her. He did not however, ask her to dance and she was disappointed and at the same time annoyed with herself for being so.

The first dances were mortifying for she had been engaged for those by Mr. Collins. he was awkward and solemn, apologizing instead of attending, and often moving wrong without being aware of it. She had all the shame and misery which a disagreeable partner for a couple of dances can give. To make matters worse she could see Mr. Darcy observing them. The moment of her release was ecstasy.

When those dances were over, Elizabeth went to Charlotte Lucas, and was in conversation with her, when she found herself suddenly addressed by Mr. Darcy. She was pleased and gratified by his application for her hand and with some confusion she accepted him. He walked away again immediately and she was left to fret over how to best illustrate his character.

When the dancing recommenced. Darcy approached to claim her hand and led her to the dance. Elizabeth took her place int he set, amazed at the dignity to which she was arrived in being allowed to stand opposite to Mr. Darcy, and reading in her neighbors looks their equal amazement in beholding it. They stood for sometime without speaking a work; and she began to imagine that their silence was to last through the two dances, as she could think of nothing to say. This would not do; she had rather argue than be silent. Finally she made some slight observation on the dance. He replied, and was again silent. After a pause of some minutes she addressed him with, "It is your turn to say something, now, Mr Darcy.--I talked about the dance, and you ought to make some kind of remark on the size of the room, or the number of couples."

He smiled, and assured her that whatever she wished him to say should be said.

She returned the smile, and repled, "Very well.--That reply will do for the present.--Perhaps by and bye I may observe that private balls are much pleasanter than public ones.--but now we may be silent."

"Do you talk by rule then, while you are dancing?"

"Sometimes. One must speak a little, you know. It would look odd to be entirely silent for half an hour together, and yet for the advantage of some, conversation ought to be so arranged as that they may have the trouble of saying as little as possible."

"Are you consulting your own feelings int he present case, or do you imagine that you are gratifying mine?"

"Both," replied Elizabeth, blushing.

He made no answer, and they were again silent till they had gone down the dance, when he asked her if she and her sisters did not very often walk to Meryton. She answered in the affirmative, and added, "You must allow me to apologize again for introducing you to Mr. Collins's notice."

"Miss Bennet, may I ask why you feel it necessary to keep apologizing for that. You have nothing to apologize for. Admittedly, Mr. Collins is a very silly, very annoying man, but really, under the circumstances, it was the only polite thing to do."

Elizabeth blushed and felt she must tell him the truth. "Mr. Darcy, I must apologize because my motives were not what you suppose them to be. You may not be aware of it but you have a tendency to stare at me. You were doing it that day, I became angry and introduced Mr. Collins to you as a sort of punishment. I had no idea Lady Catherine was your aunt.

Darcy paled slightly then blushed deeply. "Miss Bennet," he said, "It appears that I am the one who must apologize. I am aware that I look at you a great deal. There is no excuse for my behaviour and I am sorry if I have caused you any discomfort."

"It is alright, Mr. Darcy, but may I ask why you look at me all the time. I had thought it was because you found something wrong with me but my ideas on that have been changing somewhat recently."

"Oh no, Miss Bennet. I have never found anything wrong with you. What ever gave you such an idea?"

"Do you not remember, Mr. Darcy, the assembly where we met?"

Darcy paled when she mentioned the assembly, but Elizabeth continued, "I believe you said I was not handsome enough to dance with. But it seems you have changed your mind since then." She gave him an arch look and laughed but he could not.

"I am so sorry, Miss Bennet, I was afraid that you had overheard that and I should have apologized long ago. I do not know what I was thinking. I had barely looked at you. I only wanted Bingley to leave me alone for I did not want to dance. I should never have said it and I assure you I very soon regretted it. Will you please do me the honour of accepting my sincerest apologies?

"Of course, Mr. Darcy, but only if you answer my question.

Darcy coloured. He did not want to tell her, but he could be nothing less than honest. After a moment's hesitation, he said, "I look at you, Miss Bennet, simply because I find you fascinating."

Elizabeth blushed deeply. She could see in his eyes that he was telling her the absolute truth and she knew not what to say. At this moment, Sir William Lucas appeared close to them, meaning to pass through the set to the other side of the room; but on perceiving Mr. Darcy, he stopt with a bow of superior curtesy to compliment him on his dancing and his partner.

"I have been most highly gratified indeed, my dear Sir. Such very superior dancing is not often seen. It is evident that you belong to the first circles. Allow me to say, however, that your fair partner does not disgrace you, and that I must hope to have this pleasure often repeated, especially whena certain desirable event, my dear Miss Eliza, (glancing at her sister and Bingley,) shall take place. What congratulations will then flow in! I appeal to Mr. Darcy: but let me not interrupt you, Sir--You will not thank me for detaining you from the bewitching converse of that young lady, whose bright eyes are also upbraiding me."

This interruption was fortunate to Elizabeth for it gave her an opportunity to compose herself after Mr. Darcy's declaration and to form a response without an awkward pause.

"Mr. Darcy," she said, as soon as Sir William had gone, "I am afraid I have misunderstood all your past behaviour towards me. I have always thought you disliked me and were despising me."

"I think, Miss Bennet," he replied, "that that is partly my fault. Even disregarding that unfortunate comment at Meryton my behaviour has been, at the very least, contradictory."

"Nevertheless, I must apologize for I am sure my own behavior has been very impertinent."

"Please don't apologize for that. It is one reason you are so fascinating."

That was a very intriguing statement but before Elizabeth could inquire into his meaning, the dance ended. She was disappointed and hated to have the conversation end.

Mr. Darcy apparently felt the same for as he escorted her off the floor, he said,"Miss Bennet, I believe we still have much to talk about, would you care to take a turn with me in the conservatory?"

"Yes, Mr. Darcy, I would like that very much."

It was a lovely spot for private conversation: there was a feeling of being out of doors for the glass room was beautifully lit by moonlight, the scent of the flowers was heavenly, music from the ball drifted in, and, best of all, no one else was there.

They walked in silence for a few minutes enjoying the atmosphere and Elizabeth was surprised to find that she was comfortable with him alone and in silence. But they had come to talk and there was much to say.

"Mr. Darcy," she said, "may I ask what you meant by saying that you find my impertinence fascinating?"

Darcy thought a moment before replying, "First, let me remind you that it was you who termed it impertinence, not I. I was merely referring to your liveliness. Now let me see if I can explain it to you. I imagine you have probably noticed how Miss Bingley behaves towards me."

Elizabeth rolled her eyes and nodded.

"Well, ever sine I came of age, all the eligible young ladies of my acquaintance and even some who are not behave towards me in that way. Every thing they do is for my benefit. The conversation is very dull. All their opinions coincide with mine. And it is all because of my money and position in society. But you, you Āre not like that. I know what I see is the real, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, not some artful disguise meant to impress me. You are not afraid to state your own opinion and even argue with me. I must tell you, Miss Bennet, how much I have enjoyed ourarguments."

"I have enjoyed them also." After a short pause, she added, "Mr Darcy, I am most heartily ashamed of myself. I have always prided myself on my discernment and here I have been blinded by prejudice. Till this moment I never knew myself. Might we . . . I would very much like to start over."

"I should like that as well."

There was a pause of some minutes as neither of them knew what to say. After a few minutes, Darcy halted the progress of their walk, disengaged Elizabeth from his arm and turned to face her. He bowed and said, "Madam, please allow me to introduce myself. I am Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy."

Elizabeth smiled, curtseyed, and said, "I am very pleased to meet you Mr. Darcy. I am Miss Elizabeth Bennet." She extended her hand and he bent to kiss it.

"Miss Bennet," Darcy said, "if you are not otherwise engaged would you do me the honour of dancing the next two with me?"

"I would be honoured, sir." Elizabeth took his proffered arm and they returned to the ball. During the dance they played at becoming acquainted. Darcy told Elizabeth about his sister and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and she told him of her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. They talked of the things that interested them and he told her of Pemberley.

When they parted, both were satisfied with the new acquaintance. Darcy wished to ask Elizabeth to dance again but it was improper for a gentleman and a lady who are not engaged to dance more than twice in one evening. He contented himself instead with watching her. Now instead of looking away when he caught her eye he would hold his gaze and she would smile at him. He wondered if he was falling in love with her.

Elizabeth did not dance any more that evening either. Mr. Collins made it impossible by attaching himself most perseveringly by her side. This was excessively annoying. She had, however, two comforts. First, Charlotte also stayed with her and very often engaged his conversation to herself. For this, Elizabeth was highly grateful to Charlotte and knew not how to thank her. The second was Mr. Darcy's continued observation of her. She no longer found this disconcerting and found she rather liked it now. She even returned his gaze occasionally and smiled. The first time he smiled back she was startled realizing she had rarely seen him smile before. This smile made him even more handsome and she determined to make him smile more. Mr. Bennet said nothing at all but was enjoying the scene. Mr. Bingley and Jane were standing together, a little detached from the rest, and talked only to each other. Elizabeth and Darcy preserved as steady a silence as either Mrs. Hurst or Miss Bingley but they were lost in each other's gaze.

When at length they arose to take leave, Mrs. Bennet was most pressing civil in her hope of seeing the whole family soon at Longbourn; and addressed herself particularly to Mr. Bingley, to assure him how happy he would make them, by eating a family dinner with them at any time, without the ceremony of a formal invitation. Bingley was all grateful pleasure, and he readily engaged for taking the earliest opportunity of waiting on her, after his return from London, whither he was obliged to go the next day for a short time.

That evening Elizabeth confided in Jane her changed opinion of Mr. Darcy and their new found friendship. Jane was surprised but pleased. What she did not confide was Darcy's longstanding admiration of her and her own feeling that very little encouragement would lead her to more than friendship with Mr. Darcy. What she did not admit even to herself was that she was already past that point.

The morning after the Netherfield ball, Darcy arose early in order to see Bingley off on his trip to town. Despite the late evening the night before, Darcy felt invigorated due in large part to his new understanding with Elizabeth. During the ball he had thought that he was falling in love with her, but now, after a whole night of contemplating it, he was certain. He wanted to marry her but he needed to move slowly. Certainly, if he were to propose today he would scare Elizabeth away. But slow had its enticements. Darcy was certain that a slow courtship, getting to know Elizabeth entirely, would be thoroughly enjoyable.

When Darcy entered the breakfast room, he found Bingley in equally high spirits.

"Darcy," Bingley cried, "I was hoping to see you before I left. There is something I wish to ask you."

"What is that, Bingley?" Darcy replied as he sat down with his breakfast.

"It is about Miss Bennet. I think I am going to ask her to marry me but I want your opinion first."

Darcy considered while Bingley watched him anxiously. He had never seen any symptom of peculiar regard in Miss Bennet. She received Bingley's attentions with pleasure but she did not invite them by any participation of sentiment. Perhaps he should caution Bingley against proposing. No, he had been mistaken about Elizabeth, he might also be mistaken about her sister. It would be better to let Bingley take his chances.

"If you love her, Bingley, I think you should," he finally answered.

"Do you really, Darcy?"

"Yes, Bingley, I do."

"Splendid. I shall propose as soon as I return. But what about you, Darcy?"

"What about me?"

"You and Miss Elizabeth. You were quite attentive to her last night and she was the only lady you danced with. You seem to have changed your mind about her."

Darcy coloured, surprised that Bingley had had enough attention left over from Miss Bennet to notice. "We have come to an understanding, of sorts. I apologized for my past behavior and we agreed to be friends. I hope to come to a further understanding eventually but it is too soon."

"Good luck, man," Bingley replied enthusiastically. "Just think, we shall be brothers."

Later that day, Darcy was just on his way out to call at Longbourn and see Elizabeth when the butler handed him the post. Darcy flipped through the letters intending to read them later when one caught his eye. It was from his sister, Georgiana, and he decided to read just this one before he left.

24 November
Ramsgate

Dearest Fitzwilliam,

Mrs. Younge and I are having a wonderful time here in Ramsgate. The seaside is lovely. Thank you so much for sending me. I miss you dreadfully though. I had a wonderful surprise after I had been here only a day. Mr. Wickham is also spending a few weeks here. It has been so long since we have seen him. It is too bad that you are not here also as he expressed a wish to see you again. Perhaps if Mr. Bingley can do without you, you might join us. I hope you are having as pleasant a time as we are.

Your loving sister,
Georgiana

Darcy called for his valet to pack a small bag and for his horse to be readied immediately. He then dashed off a quick note of explanation for Bingley asking that the rest of his things be sent to town. Within five minutes he was on the road.

As he passed Longbourn, Darcy regretted that he could not inform Elizabeth of his departure. But it could not be helped and surely Bingley would inform her when he returned.

The day at Longbourn was eventful. Mr. Collins proposed and was refused. Elizabeth was then so busy avoiding her mother's displeasure that it was not until she had retired that she had an opportunity to think of Darcy.

She was a little surprised he had not come to call. She had rather expected that he would. But the previous evening she had detected that he might be shy and perhaps he was too nervous to come alone. Mr. Bingley would return in a few days and he would surely call then.

The next day, a letter was delivered to Jane; it came from Netherfield, and was opened immediately. The envelope contained a sheet of elegant, little, hot-pressed paper, well covered with a lady's fair, flowing hand; and Elizabeth saw her sister's countenance change as she read it, and saw her dwelling intently on some particular passages.

"This is from Caroline Bingley; what it contains, has surprised me a good deal. The whole party have left Netherfield by this time, and are on their way to town, excepting Mr. Darcy who left unexpectedly yesterday, they know not where; and without any intention of coming back again. You shall hear what she says." She then read the first sentence aloud, which comprised the information of their having just resolved to follow their brother to town directly, and of their meaning to dine that day in Grosvenor street, where Mr. Hurst had a house, and Mr Darcy's absence from the party. The next was in these words.

I do not pretend to regret any thing I shall leave in Hertfordshire, except your society, my dearest friend; but we will hope at some future period, to enjoy many returns of the delightful intercourse we have known, and in the mean while may lessen the pain of separation by a very frequent and most unreserved correspondence. I depend on you for that.

"It is unlucky," said she, after a short pause, "that you should not be able to see your friends before they leave the country. But may we not hope that the period of future happiness to which Miss Bingley looks forward, may arrive earlier than she is aware, and that the delightful intercourse you have known as friends, will be renewed with yet greater satisfaction as sisters? Mr. Bingley will not be detained in London by them."

"Caroline decidedly says that none of the party will return into Hertfordshire this winter. I will read it to you,

When my brother left us yesterday, he imagined that the business which took him to London, might be concluded in three or four days, but as we are certain it cannot be so, and at the same time convinced that when Charles gets to town he will be in no hurry to leave it again, we have determined on following him thither, that he may not be obliged to spend his vacant hours in a comfortless hotel. Many of my acquaintance are already there for the winter; I wish I could hear that you, my dearest friend, had any intention of making one in the crowd, but of that I despair. I sincerely hope your Christmas in Hertfordshire may abound in the gaieties which that season generally brings, and that your beaux will be so numerous as to prevent your feeling the loss of the three of whom we shall deprive you.

"It is only evident that Miss Bingley does not mean he should."

"Why will you think so? It must be his own doing. He is his own master. But you do not know all. I will read you the passage which particularly hurts me. I will have no reserves from you."

We are eager to meet Mr. Darcy's sister again. I really do not think Georgiana Darcy has her equal for beauty, elegance, and accomplishments; and the affection she inspires in Louisa and myself is heightened into something still more interesting, from the hope we dare to entertain of her being hereafter our sister. I do not know whether I ever before mentioned to you my feelings on this subject, but I will not leave the country without confiding them, and I trust you will not esteem them unreasonable. My brother admires her greatly already, he will have frequent opportunity now of seeing her on the most intimate footing, her relations all wish the connection as much as his own, and a sister's partiality is not misleading me, I think, when I call Charles most capable of engaging any woman's heart. With all these circumstances to favour an attachment and nothing to prevent it, am I wrong, my dearest Jane, in indulging the hope of an event which will secure the happiness of so many?

"But Miss Darcy is not even in town."

"How do you know that, Lizzy?" asked Jane in surprise.

"Mr. Darcy told me all about her and she is presently in Ramsgate. He did not even hint at an attachment between his sister and Mr Bingley. Besides, Georgiana Darcy is only fifteen and Mr. Darcy does not even intend to bring her out in society for another few years at least. I got the impression that he is rather protective of her and would be opposed to any match at this time, even with his best friend."

"Are you certain, Lizzy?"

"Yes, Jane, I'm positive."

"But what motive could Caroline possibly have to deceive me?"

"I believe it wishful thinking on Miss Bingley's part. She sees that her brother is in love with you, and wants him to marry Miss Darcy. She follows him to town in the hope of keeping him there, and tries to persuade you that he does not care about you."

Jane shook her head.

"Indeed, Jane, you ought to believe me.--No one who has ever seen you together, can doubt his affection. Miss Bingley I am sure cannot. She is not such a simpleton. But, my dearest Jane, you cannot seriously imagine that because Miss Bingley tells you her brother greatly admires Miss Darcy, he is in the smallest degree less sensible of your merit than when he took leave of you on Tuesday, or that it will be in her power to persuade him that instead of being in love with you, he is very much in love with her friend."

"If we thought alike of Miss Bingley," replied Jane, "your representation of all this, might make me quite easy. But I know the foundation is unjust. Caroline is incapable of wilfully deceiving any one; and all that I can hope in this case is, that she is deceived herself."

"That is right.--You could not have started a more happy idea, since you will not take comfort in mine. Believe her to be deceived by all means. You have now done your duty by her, and must fret no longer."

Jane's temper was not desponding, and she was gradually led to hope, though the diffidence of affection sometimes overcame the hope, that Bingley would return to Netherfield and answer every wish of her heart.

Once Jane had been reasonably reassured, Elizabeth went for a walk in the garden to ponder on Darcy's disappearance. Where could he have gone? Miss Bingley had said that his departure was entirely unexpected and they had no idea where he had gone. Try as she might, Elizabeth could not find a way that Miss Bingley could be deceptive on this point. There was nothing in it that was advantageous to her plans for Mr. Darcy and his sister. It must be true. Something urgent must have occurred. He had not mentioned that he would be going away. On the contrary, he had expressed pleasure in the prospect of seeing much of her in the coming weeks.

Elizabeth finally resolved not to dwell on it. There was nothing she could do. But she dearly hoped Mr Darcy would return soon.

Chapter 2

After riding hard all day, Darcy arrived at Ramsgate in the late evening. He went directly to the house he had hired for Georgiana and Mrs. Younge. He was informed that they had just finished supper and was shown into the drawing room. The first thing he saw was Mr. Wickham and his sister sitting much too close together on a small sofa. Mrs. Younge was not even in the room.

Georgiana, overjoyed to see her brother and not noticing his dark look, jumped up and ran into his arms.

"Oh, Fitzwilliam!" she cried, "I am so happy you have come. I have such news to tell you."

Darcy could not answer right away. He kept his eyes riveted to Wickham who was trying to sidle out of the room. Controlling his voice so not to alarm his sister, Darcy said,

"In a moment, Georgie. You are not thinking of leaving, Mr. Wickham." It was not a question.

"Err . . . no, Darcy."

"Good, I should like to speak with you but first I need a moment alone with my sister."

"Of course. Let me just step out into the hall."

"Oh no, sit down. Have a glass of port." He was not going to get away that easily. "We shall go into another sitting room."

He escorted Georgiana out of the room and whispered to the footman stationed outside.

"Go into the drawing room and make sure the gentleman does not leave." The footman nodded and went in and Darcy locked the door behind him.

"You have come so quickly, Fitzwilliam," said Georgiana as soon as they were seated in another room. "You must have come the instant you received my letter."

"Yes, I received it just this morning."

"I did not mean for you to cut your visit with Mr. Bingley so short. I would have been satisfied had you come in a few weeks."

"I know, dearest. It was your news about Mr. Wickham that brought me."

"Oh, I knew you would want to see him. I knew there was no reason to be so secretive but Mr. Wickham insisted."

Darcy was instantly alarmed. Was he too late? "Secretive about what?" he cried.

"Oh Fitzwilliam, I am so happy. Mr. Wickham and I are to be married in two days." Relief coursed through Darcy. He was not too late. But he was not been a moment too soon.

"You were going to elope? Why did you not tell me?"

Georgiana began to cry and Darcy instantly regretted the anger that had been in his voice. He took his sister in his arms and whispered soothingly, "I am not angry with you, darling. I am sorry I sounded so. Please tell me all about it."

"I'm sorry, Fitzwilliam. I wanted to tell you. I begged George to write you asking your permission. But he would not and forbade me to do so. He said you would never approve. But you do approve, don't you?"

Darcy had to tread carefully. There was no way he could allow this to happen but he had to be careful not to wound his sister more than would be necessary.

"No dearest, I do not. You are much too young."

"But I love him and he loves me. He said that you would think me too young but if I truly loved him I would not make him wait by asking permission. I was so afraid of losing him."

Darcy fumed at they way Wickham had manipulated his precious little sister but remained calm for her sake. "But think, Georgie, if he truly loved you he would have waited for you."

"But he told me he would not. He . . . he does not love me?"

"No, dearest, I am sorry, he does not."

Georgiana began to cry even harder. "But why?" she sobbed, "why does he want to marry me if he does not love me?"

"I am sorry to have to tell you this, Georgie, but you deserve the truth. Mr. Wickham wants to marry you for your fortune."

Georgiana recoiled in horror but when she looked at her brother she knew he was telling the truth and that he had known all along. "How did you know?" she whispered.

Darcy proceeded to tell her of all his dealings with George Wickham from the time they were boys. By the time he was finished, Georgiana had gone silent and pale. "I am sorry I did not tell you sooner. Then this could never have happened. But it never occurred to me that you would need to know. I'm just glad I got here in time." She barely nodded in response. "Georgie?" Darcy questioned growing concerned.

"I'm so sorry, Fitzwilliam," she whimpered.

Darcy took her in his arms again and kissed the top of her head. "It is not your fault, darling. You have nothing to apologize for. Now you go to bed and we will talk in the morning."

Georgiana departed and Darcy returned to the drawing room to deal with Wickham.

When Darcy reentered the drawing room, Wickham was pacing about like a caged animal. When he caught sight of Darcy he spat bitterly,

"I suppose that little %$*@# ruined everything by telling you I was here."

Somehow, miraculously, Darcy remained calm. But his voice was menacingly low as he said, "Don't you dare refer to my sister again or I will give you cause to regret it." There could be no mistaking Darcy's seriousness and Wickham settled down. "I suppose you have gambled away your three thousand pounds," continued Darcy. "Did you spend even one day studying the law?" Wickham said nothing. "No, I never expected anything would come of that. And now after you have wasted your inheritance you try to gain your fortune by preying on the innocent daughter of your generous benefactor."

"He was a fool," muttered Wickham under his breath. But Darcy heard.

"My father loved you," he shouted. "Almost like a son. When I told him of your behaviour at Cambridge, he gave you the benefit of the doubt and laid it down to youthful indiscretion. I thank heaven that he cannot see how you have betrayed him. Now get out and don't you ever come near my sister again."

"I believe I shall need some encouragement not to do that, Darcy. Another three thousands pounds will do nicely."

"You shall not get another farthing from me. If you ever come anywhere near her again one word from me will ruin your reputation and you will never be able to pass yourself off as an honourable gentleman again."

"Ah, but Darcy, that would ruin her as well."

"I think not, Wickham. She is but fifteen and that will be her excuse. No one could possibly blame her for it. Now get out before I have you thrown out."

"D*** you, Darcy," shouted Wickham as he stalked from the room and then the house slamming the doors behind him.

Darcy collapsed onto the sofa, shaking. How he had managed to not beat Wickham into a bloody pulp he knew not, but it had taken all of his strength.

A moment later. Mrs. Younge burst into the room. "Mr. Wickham, Miss Georgiana," she cried, "whatever is the matter? I heard shouting and . . ."
she trailed off as she saw only her employer in the room.

Darcy glowered at her. "Where have you been Mrs. Younge? I arrived to find my young sister all alone with a man. Can you explain that to me?"

"I . . . Well . . . They are engaged, sir. I thought it would be alright to give them a little privacy."

"They are not engaged. How could they be engaged without having obtained my permission? I see young ladies are not to be trusted to your care." Darcy went to a table and wrote out a cheque. "Here are your wages, Mrs. Younge. You are dismissed. You will pack your things and be gone in the morning."

"I see Mr. Wickham was right about you," she muttered as she left the room and Darcy realized that Mrs. Younge had not merely failed in her duty but had conspired with Wickham to ruin them. He fell back on the sofa and sobbed in relief that he discovered the plot in time.

The next day, Darcy hired a carriage and took Georgiana home to Pemberley.

The day after departing from Netherfield, Mr. Bingley received a note at his hotel.

Charles,

Louisa, Mr. Hurst, and I have arrived in town. I know you cannot be comfortable in a hotel and therefore beg you to join us at Mr. Hurst's townhouse. When are you going to purchase a townhouse of your own?

Caroline

"Charles," said Miss Bingley before she had even greeted her brother, "surely you do not wish to return to Hertfordshire."

"Of course I do. Why would you think otherwise, Caroline?"

"It was so tedious there and the society so savage and unrefined."

"Whatever can you mean? Everyone was delightful. I intend to spend most of my time there from now on. I wasn't going to tell you until everything was concluded but as I soon as I return I am going to ask Miss Jane Bennet to marry me."

"Oh, Charles, do be serious," replied Miss Bingley, laughing.

"I am serious, Caroline."

Miss Bingley instantly sobered. "Have you consulted Mr. Darcy? Surely he does not approve. Though she is a lovely girl, Miss Bennet and her family are far beneath you. I imagine you would lose his friendship if you were to marry her."

"Actually, I spoke with him of my plans just before I left. He wished me luck and gave me not one word of discouragement. I am certain he is quite pleased with my choice of wife."

Miss Bingley had no reply to that and Bingley started to leave the room. But before he could do so, Miss Bingley cried,

"Charles, I cannot let you do this. She does not love you and will break your heart."

"How can you be so sure Caroline? If she does not love me she will refuse. I would be heartbroken if that were to happen but I would rather take that chance than never know for certain."

"I am sure, Charles, because she told me."

"What?!"

"You know Miss Bennet and I have become quite good friends. She confided in me that she has only received your attentions because her mother forced her to and that she will refuse when you propose."

Bingley was stunned. He had been so certain. He suddenly found his legs could not support him and he sank into a chair in shock and grief.

"You will not return to Netherfield then?"

"I must," he replied quietly, "Darcy is waiting for me." It would be difficult but he had to go back for Darcy's sake. Darcy would never stay at Netherfield without his host. And though his own hopes were dashed, Bingley would not jeopardize Darcy's courtship of Miss Elizabeth by forcing him away.

"Mr. Darcy left Netherfield yesterday."

"What?! Where did he go? Is he in town?"

"We do not know. He left quite suddenly, only a few hours after you did. He said not a word of where he was going."

This was too much. Bingley could not comprehend it and was too dejected to even try.

A few days later, a letter arrived at Longbourn for Jane from Miss Bingley. It confirmed that the Bingleys and Hursts were settled in town for the winter. Elizabeth did not understand it. That Bingley was really fond of Jane, she doubted no more than she had ever done; and much as she had always been disposed to like him, she could not think without anger, hardly without contempt, on that easiness of temper, that want of proper resolution which now made him the slave of his designing sisters, and led him to sacrifice his own happiness to the caprice of their inclinations. Had his own happiness, however, been the only sacrifice, he might have been allowed to sport with it in what ever manner he thought best; but her sister's was involved in it, as, she thought, he must be sensible himself. And yet whether Bingley's regard had really died away, or were suppressed by his sisters' interference; whether he had been aware of Jane's attachment, or whether it had escaped his observation; whichever were the case, though her opinion of him must be materially affected by the difference, her sister's situation remained the same, her peace equally wounded.

Elizabeth was also disappointed that no mention of Mr. Darcy was made in the letter. She knew that any information from Miss Bingley in that quarter would be unreliable but she might at least have gotten some hint of where he had gone and when he might be back.

Christmas soon came though it was not very joyous that year.

Jane and Bingley each pined for the other, grieving that their love, so they thought, was unrequited.

Elizabeth had still heard nothing of Mr. Darcy. She tried to convince herself that Mr. Bingley's absence from Netherfield prevented him from returning himself. But at the back of her mind she knew if he really wanted to see her that would not stop him. Perhaps he had been trifling with her at the Netherfield Ball. Yet her heart told her that was not so.

Darcy was busy helping his sister withdraw from the shell she had retreated into after Wickham's treachery. He thought often of Elizabeth and wished he could write her but propriety forbade him to do so. He had sent Bingley a missive at Netherfield informing him that he would be at Pemberley indefinitely and requesting that his apologies be expressed to Elizabeth. Darcy was surprised that Bingley had never responded but Bingley had always been a careless correspondent and he was probably too wrapped up in his engagement to Miss Bennet to attend to such matters.

Chapter 3

After Christmas, Jane went to stay with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner in town. She hoped to see Miss Bingley and perhaps (though this hope was unacknowledged) even Mr. Bingley. Miss Bingley never responded to her letters and finally concluding that they or the responses had been lost in the post she called in Grosvenor Street herself. Miss Bingley confirmed that the letters had never been received. When Miss Bingley returned the call three weeks later, she behaved rather coldly, forcing Jane into the unhappy conclusion that Elizabeth had been right. However, Jane did not doubt Miss Bingley's information that Mr. Bingley was aware of her being in town and was too busy to call. That night Jane cried herself to sleep as her last hopes vanished.

All this information was relayed by post to an incredulous Elizabeth. One tiny bit of good came from Jane's letter. For one half-hour Elizabeth was enough wrapped up in Jane's heartbreak to forget her own. Elizabeth had still not heard of Darcy. As each day lengthened his absence she became more certain that he had abandoned her. She looked forward to March when she would visit her friend Charlotte who had married Mr. Collins. Elizabeth knew she would derive little pleasure from the visit but she would not be reminded of Darcy in Kent.

By spring, Georgiana was much improved and Darcy began to prepare his return to Hertfordshire and Elizabeth. But first, he had to make his annual journey to Kent to visit his Aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh for Easter. It was never a pleasant visit but perhaps this year anticipation of soon seeing Elizabeth would help the time pass more swiftly.

Elizabeth travelled to Kent with Sir William Lucas and his daughter, Maria. With these two as companions there was no lack of conversation but Elizabeth had heard all their conversation before and found the journey quite tedious. She was therefore relieved when they arrived at Gracechurch-street where they were to break their journey for the night. She was also glad of the opportunity to see Jane. They stayed up late discussing the last few months they had been separated. Each could detect a sadness in the other but neither Mr. Bingley or Mr. Darcy was mentioned.

The next day the party continued on to Kent. Elizabeth was happy to see Charlotte and to see her in a pleasant situation though she did not regret her own decision not to marry Mr. Collins. The Parsonage was comfortable and pleasant and Elizabeth found the surrounding countryside and the grounds of Lady Catherine de Bourgh's neighboring estate of Rosings lovely and well suited to her frequent rambles. Their frequent visits to Lady Catherine were trying and tedious but on the whole Elizabeth was enjoying herself and did manage to think of Darcy less. Until a fateful morning just before Easter.

Darcy arrived at Rosings with his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the evening a few days before Easter. The next morning, he arose early due to the discomfort of his aunt's beds and decided to go for a ride before breakfast. He had been galloping across the fields and was now admiring the spring blossoms and letting the horse rest as they took a more sedate pace through the woods. He took a turning and almost fell off the horse for there walking towards him was Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was so shocked she was afraid she might faint. But she didn't. She just stood stock-still and stared. Darcy was no better. They stared at each other in silence for several minutes. Finally, Elizabeth found her tongue and managed to say in a slightly strangled voice,

"Wh . . . what are you doing here?"

"I . . . Lady Catherine is my . . . my aunt. I . . . I thought you knew that," stammered Darcy.

"I . . . I forgot," replied Elizabeth instantly remembering.

As Elizabeth's shock wore away she began to remember the pain Darcy had put her through in the last few months and she could no longer bear to be in his presence. "Excuse me," she murmured and hiking up her skirts she turned and ran.

Darcy had no idea what had happened but suddenly Elizabeth was running from him. "Miss Bennet, wait!" he cried as he leapt from the horse and ran after her. Elizabeth had a head start but Darcy's legs were longer and he soon caught up with her. "Please wait," he cried again as he took hold of her arm to stop her flight.

"Unhand me, sir," Elizabeth cried as she struggled in his grasp.

"Will you stay?"

"Why should I? You didn't?"

"What?!"

"I thought you cared for me."

"I do. I do care for you. Very much. I love you Elizabeth."

If it were possible, Elizabeth was even more shocked than she had been a few moments before. How could he love her after the way he had treated her?

"You have a strange way of showing it, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth spat at him.

Darcy was thoroughly confused. "What do you mean, Elizabeth? What have I done to offend you?"

Elizabeth stared at him. "You have to ask?"

"Yes, I do, for I can think of nothing."

Elizabeth laughed bitterly. "I find it hard to believe, Mr. Darcy, that a man truly in love would leave the object of his affections for four months without a word."

"But it was an emergency. I wrote to Bingley and asked him to explain it to you."

"Well, Mr. Bingley never came back either."

"What?! Mr. Bingley is not at Netherfield?"

"No," said Elizabeth beginning to realize that there had been a big mistake. "Didn't you know that?"

"No. He never answered my letters but he is a negligent correspondent and it never occurred to me that he might not be there. I don't understand. He was going to propose to your sister. What happened?"

Elizabeth told him of Miss Bingley's letters and Jane's meeting with her in town.

"Jane is completely heartbroken. She was not at all herself when last I saw her. Are you certain Mr. Bingley was going to propose?"

"Yes. It was the last thing we spoke of before he departed. He asked my advice on the matter and I encouraged him in it."

"But if he meant to propose, why did he never come back?"

"His sisters must have convinced him not to. I know it will pain you to hear, but neither of them was sincere in their regard for Miss Bennet. I would not be surprised if he is actually unaware of your sister's being in town."

"Oh," cried Elizabeth, "if it is as you think, Mr. Bingley must be as miserable as Jane. Whatever can we do?"

"Is Miss Bennet still in love with Bingley? Has her regard been damaged by his abandonment."

"Not materially. I am certain once she learns of the mistake, any blame she has placed on him will be forgotten."

"Then as soon as I can get away from my aunt, I will call on him in town and see if I can straighten everything out."

"Oh will you, Mr. Darcy?"

"Of course I will, Miss Bennet. Mr. Bingley is my best friend and I want to see him happy. I believe that your sister is the key to his happiness. Now, would you be so kind as to allow me to escort you back to . . . What are you doing here, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth blushed as she replied, "Surely you remember my cousin, Mr. Collins, who is the rector at Hunsford."

"Of course I remember him. It would be difficult to forget. But I cannot imagine your visiting him." Suddenly Darcy had a horrific thought. "I knew he had an interest in you, surely you are not . . ."

"Oh no," cried Elizabeth equally horrified, "that could never be. He did propose to me but nothing could have induced me to accept him. He is now married to my good friend Charlotte, the former Miss Lucas. It is really she that I am visiting."

"I am glad to hear it," replied Darcy much relieved. "Will you allow me to escort you to the parsonage then?"

"I have only just begun my walk but I would be happy if you would accompany me. You must be quite familiar with Rosings as it is your aunt's estate. Perhaps you can show me some of the best spots."

"It would be my pleasure, Miss Bennet."

"Oh," exclaimed Elizabeth, suddenly noticing something, "what has happened to your horse, Mr. Darcy?"

"What?"

"You were on horseback when I met you but the horse has disappeared."

"Oh," cried Darcy looking round, "I forgot all about him. You need not worry about him, Miss Bennet, he is quite reliable and has most likely returned to the stables on his own. We will keep an eye out for him on our walk, just in case. Shall we?" he asked, offering Elizabeth his arm which she gladly took.

They walked in silence for some time though the silence was not uncomfortable for each was lost in their own thoughts. Darcy was contemplating how lucky it was that Elizabeth was here in Kent and that their misunderstanding had been resolved so easily. And Elizabeth was considering all that had happened in the last half hour. She kept returning to one detail and finally worked up the courage to ask Darcy about it.

"Mr. Darcy," she queried tentatively, "might I ask you something?"

"Of course, Miss Bennet."

"Did you mean it?"

"Did I mean what?"

"Do you really . . . love me?"

Darcy was startled. With all that had occurred he had completely forgotten that he had admitted that. It was true of course but he had never meant to blurt it out like that. But it couldn't be helped now.

"Yes," he replied simply, "I do."

He then led Elizabeth to a fallen log and sat down with her. "Miss Bennet, this is not how I had intended to do this but I would like to court you if I may."

Elizabeth could hardly believe her ears. Just this morning she had believed that Darcy had completely forgotten her and here he was admitting that he loved her and formally asking her permission to court her. Blushing, she looked into his eyes and replied,

"I would like that very much, Mr. Darcy."

"Thank you, Miss Bennet," said Darcy smiling broadly.

"Perhaps," said Elizabeth nervously, "as we are officially courting, you might like to call me Elizabeth."

"I would like that very much, Elizabeth. And will you call me Fitzwilliam?"

"Fitzwilliam?" Elizabeth replied wrinkling her nose slightly.

"Yes. I know it is unusual. It is my mother's maiden name. You may call me something else if you like."

Elizabeth thought for a moment, then asked, "May I call you Will?"

"Of course. Anything you like. Shall we continue our walk?"

They did so and after a few minutes Elizabeth asked, "Will, is everything all right?"

"Of course," he replied confused, "Why do you ask?"

"You said you were called away by an emergency. I don't want to pry or anything but is everything all right."

"Yes. It was about my sister. I was able to prevent anything serious occurring but she was quite shaken. I did not feel that I could leave her. I am sorry that I was not able to tell you. I would have written if it had been proper."

"It is all right, Will. I understand. I missed you dreadfully though."

"I missed you as well."

"I am sorry about your sister."

"Thank you. She is much better now. I hope you can meet her soon."

"I would like that very much."

They continued walking and getting reacquainted for sometime. By the time Darcy finally escorted Elizabeth to the parsonage and returned to Rosings, he had missed breakfast and it was almost time for luncheon. He did not mind in the least.