Beginning, Previous Section, Section III
Chapter 8
Two weeks later, on a quiet Wednesday morning, Lizzie and Georgiana awaited both thr arrivals of Lady Matlock and her daughter-in-law; Lady Marsden. Elizabeth had not seen her cousin-in-law since the wedding, but she liked her very much. When she came into Hertfordshire for the weddings, after Colonel Fitzwilliam had introduced his sister-in-law to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, they took an immediate like to one another. After her first reference to her as your Ladyship, Elizabeth remembered with a smile how she had been instructed to call her Kate, for she had recognized in this country miss, a kindred spirit. Elizabeth remembered how she had shocked into laughter at her impressions of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, during the time she was courted by Lord Marsden. "I am so glad that Cousin Kate is accompanying Aunt Matlock. I do enjoy it when she visits. She makes things so interesting." said Georgiana, as Ames entered the drawing room to announce the arrival of the Countess Matlock and the Viscount Marsden.
Lady Matlock and Lady Marsden were shown into the drawing room, where they greeted Elizabeth and Georgiana warmly. "Lizzie, it so wonderful to see you again, and I see that married life, at least married life with my Cousin is agreeing with you. You are positively glowing." said Lady Marsden, as she hugged Elizabeth.
Knowing it was hard to keep some things secret from Lady Marsden, Elizabeth knew that she would needs must tell her the truth about her condition. "I am increasing, Kate, but I would ask you not to say anything about this, as I have not told William yet." said Elizabeth.
"I see, you are looking for the right time. Then my lips are sealed, though I would not try to look so blooming or glowing when Mama's neighbour and her six compatriots arrive, for William will not be hearing the news from you, for I am afraid that Sally will have that story spread around Town and back again and as you know, once a story like that is spread about, it tends to grow." said Lady Marsden.
"As well I know, Kate." said Elizabeth, in a light tone. Yet she was serious, for she had heard some of the stories that had been spread about her since the news of her betrothal to Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy Esq., as she also was aware of the fact that mant of the aforesaid rumours were spread by Miss Caroline Bingley.
"Elizabeth, I understand that two of your cousins have come to England from America, and one is staying at Good Samaritan House." said Lady Matlock.
"Yes, my Cousin Lucas is staying here in Town with Lord Thornewood, while his brother Daniel is in Hertfordshire at Longbourne. Daniel is My Father's namesake and godson." replied Elizabeth.
"When Mama and I went to Lord Thornewood's establishment two days ago for our weekly volunteering, and we heard someone playing the violin wonderfully, the player I must assume was your cousin, Elizabeth ? " asked Lady Marsden.
"Yes it was. Lucas plays the violin well. He has a very good tenor also. Last week, he came here with Lord Thornewood and he sang with Georgiana and my Sister Mary." replied Elizabeth.
"Enough of this chatter, young Ladies. I do know that you are nervous about having Lady Jersey and her compatriots from King Street here. Elizabeth, you need not fear them, for if you can stand up to my sister-in-law, the Ladies will not overset you to much. Mrs. Drummond-Burrell is the most correct in her behaviour, but you have never put a foot wrong since I first made your acquaintance. Just do not let whatever rumours Miss Bingley may have spread about you, that may have reached Lady Jersey's ears worry you. Sally may enjoy listening to and spreading gossip herself, but she does possess the ability of being able to separate fact from fiction. Sally knows that most of what has been said about you by Miss Bingley was created out of whole cloth. She also knows that despite Miss Bingley's attempts to sully your name with the ton have failed miserably. All the members that you have met in my drawing room have declared you a prettily behaved young Lady, and they have also mentioned the lovely change in Darcy since the spring. When one has known him since his childhood as I have, and remember that until he suffered the loss of his dear Mother, Darcy, and his cousins enjoyed many "adventures", "adventures", that his Father and Uncle referred to as complete and utter mischief, and if you can credit this Darcy tended to be the leader of his cousins. While most of this mischief had my sons and nephew on the business ends of both his Father's or his Uncle's canes, they all took their punishment without complaints." said Lady Matlock. As she finished speaking, Ames came to announce the arrival of the Ladies from King Street.
Mr. Ames showed the Lady Patronesses into the drawing room. "Rebecca! Kate! How lovely to see you again. You both are looking well." said Lady Jersey, as she greeted Lady Matlock and Lady Marsden, warmly.
"I am feeling well, and having two young Ladies to sponsor helps me to feel young." replied Lady Matlock.
"Young, but my dear Rebecca, you were never old." exclaimed the Countess Lieven. Lady Matlock introduced Elizabeth and Georgiana to the Lady Patronesses, even though she knew that she was only nominally introducing Georgiana, as she and her daughter-in-law knew, the Ladies were actually here to meet Elizabeth and determine if she were truly good ton. Elizabeth welcomed the Ladies warmly to Grosvenor Square, and offered refreshments.
While they waited for the tray, Sally Jersey and Countess Lieven began a very discreet scrutiny of Mrs. Darcy. As they discreetly watched Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy entered the drawing room. "William are you not going to greet our guests?" asked Elizabeth, as her husband crossed the room to stand next to her.
Mr. Darcy welcomed his Aunt and his Cousin, and the Ladies from King Street politely. "Elizabeth, I have just come to say that I am leaving for the morning, and I will be counting the minutes 'til I am with you again. Will you be counting the minutes also?" asked Mr. Darcy, in a voice for Elizabeth's ears only.
"William, I will be counting the second, minutes, and hours. Surely that proves that I love you more constantly. You are only counting the minutes. I must think of an appropriate punishment for this." said Elizabeth, in a similar, if mock outraged tone. Darcy and Elizabeth looked at each other and Darcy threw back his head and laughed. This singular occurrence caught the attentions of both Lady Jersey and Countess Lieven.
"Dorothea, did you hear and see that? Mr. Darcy is smiling and laughing. In all the years that Fitzwilliam Darcy has been on the Town, he never smiled or laughed while he was dancing with any of the misses that he was introduced to at our little gatherings of a Wednesday night. What do you suppose has brought about such a change in that young man, Dorothea?"remarked Sally Jersey in a very discreet, for Sally Jersey tone.
"Why my dear Sarah, can you not tell, Mr. Darcy is in love with his wife and his wife is in love with him. Sarah, you, yourself have heard Khristof tell Mr. Darcy that one day he would meet a young Lady who would steal his heart away before he knew what to do. The former Miss Elizabeth Bennet must have done this. Who would have thought that a simple country miss would be the one to steal away Our Mr. Darcy's heart, when all the Town misses have been trying for years. I for one knew that Miss Caroline Bingley did not have a chance with him. She is a danger to Mrs. Darcy though. Miss Bingley, Mrs. Hurst, and their protegees will try to ruin Mrs. Darcy with the ton with their inuendoes and lies. I for one like Mrs. Darcy, Sarah. The changes she has brought about in Mr. Darcy are good ones. I will vote to grant her vouchers. I also like the effect Mrs Darcy has had on Mr. Darcy's sister. Miss Darcy is no longer the shy mousey little girl she was when you first introduced her to me two years ago. Miss Darcy is able to converse with more people than she had in the past. Just two days ago, Therese, and I were at Good Samaritan House, and I had the chance to observe both Mrs. Darcy and Miss Darcy doing good works. I understand that Mrs. Darcy had been giving of her time their even before her marriage to Mr. Darcy. Miss Darcy and another young Lady who I believe is Mrs. Darcy's sister, they were playing with the children who live there. A young man was playing the violin for the children. I am not sure of my facts Sarah, but the young man is Mrs Darcy's cousin from America." said Countess Lieven.
"I believe you Dorothea. I knew that much of what Miss Caroline Bingley had to say about Mrs. Darcy was just so much humbug. It will be a real treat to have dearest Kate here in Town from Essex. That will set the ton spinning. Dorothea, both dearest Kate and Mrs. Darcy have done something that no other young miss would dare to do, stand up to Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Dorothea dear, you must tell me more about this young man who you said just might be connected to Mrs. Darcy. He is from America, did you say?" asked Lady Jersey.
"Yes he is from America, but I do not think that he would be interested in any of our misses, for I do believe that he is quite enamoured of his Cousin Mary, I believe I heard him call her." replied Countess Lieven.
"I have seen that young man myself, Dorothea, but I was most surprised to see that he was enamoured of his cousin, for she seemed a bit stiff when Lord Thornewood introduced her to me, yet when they played songs for the children, they seemed to be well suited to one another." said Lady Jersey.
"Sarah, having both Mrs. Darcy and Lady Marsden will be just the godsend The Season has been needing. Why just two days ago Khristof was telling me that he was afraid that this Season was going to be boring in the extreme. Then he met Our Dear Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy at Whites a fortnight ago. Khristof asked the Colonel about Mrs. Darcy and everything that the Dear Colonel told Khristof confirms his suspicions that Mrs. Darcy stole Mr. Darcy's heart away before he knew what to do. Will you be inviting the Darcys to your soiree, Sarah?" asked the Countess Lieven.
"I believe that I will invite the Darcys, Dorothea. As for what Christopher has told you, truly you must warn him about what you have told me about not wishing for things, as I may just have it granted." replied Lady Jersey.
"Sarah, I must tell you of the young man that was at Whites as a guest of Colonel Fitzwilliam, the day Khristof spoke with him. He is a member of the Dear Colonel's regiment. He is from the Highlands of Scotland. He is Captain Duncan MacLeod, I do think that all the young misses you plan to invite to your soiree will find him very handsome. I have seen him about myself and he was the knight in shining armour to my abigail Tanya. Captain MacLeod has long black hair that he wears tied back. He is very, very tall, taller than Mr. Darcy. He has the most beautiful dark brown eyes, eyes that look almost old. They look as if they have seen that most ancient of pain and makes you wish that you could ease his sorrows." said the Countess Lieven with a sly, but wistful smile.
"I suppose that you wished that you could ease his sorrows yourself, Dorothea." replied Sally Jersey, with an equally sly smile.
"Sarah, if you had seen him as I have you would wish to ease his pain also. Though where such a young man, a man who cannot be more than thirty years old, acquired such an old look in his eyes I will never know. I really must tell you of how he rescued my abigail Tanya. I sent her to Yardley's shop to purchase some lavender water and a very uncouth person accosted the poor child. This person frightened Tanya so badly that she ran, fell and twisted her ankle. Captain MacLeod not only saw to Tanya, but dealt with the odious man who accosted her. Tanya said that hae spoke Russian to her. When I chose Tanya, before we left Russia, she was the only girl who was able to speak English well, but when the child is flustered, she goes back to speaking Russian. Now I ask you Sarah, where would a young man from the Highlands of Scotland learn to speak Russian? He is very enigmatic." replied the Countess Lieven.
"I do believe that when I send Colonel Fitzwilliam and his dear Rebecca an invitaion to the soiree, I am going to add "and guest" and intimate that the Dear Colonel must bring Captain MacLeod too. My Dear Dorothea, you do make me curious in the extreme about that young man. Thank you for telling me about him. He absolutely intriguing." said Lady Jersey.
Author's Note: Forgive me for interrupting this chapter with this note, but this note is especially for fans of the "Highlander" movies and are fond of Duncan's elder Clansman; Connor, for I am about to play fast and loose with the sad story of Connor and Sarah Barrington. I was first made aware of that story when I read the only other Jane Austen/ "Highlander" story I ever read. This was a crossover to "Persuasion" and I found it quite good. I think if you go to http://www.seventh-dimension.simplenet.com, you may find it. I believe the authors were: Highlandlass and Lori Wright Connor will be in this story at the end, but this is not a spoiler, I only want my gentle readers who are familiar with that sad story to know that I have decided that since the odious Damien Hadham has a grudge against all members of the Clan MacLeod, Immortal and or otherwise, I am putting forth the theory that Hadham had something to do with Connor being put in prison and being sentenced to be guillotined.Thanks lots,
Your gentle Author
P.S. This is how Mr. Darcy spent his time counting the minutes 'til he was with his Dearest, Loveliest Elizabeth again.
P.P.S. Get ready Ann, your favourite Immortal disguised as a Watcher is going to make his appearance soon.
Arriving at M. Le Mont's fencing parlour, he was told that Captain MacLeod had already arrived and was in one of the practicing rooms by himself. Darcy quickly changed his clothes and soon joined MacLeod.
Entering the room, he stopped suddenly, fascinated by MacLeod's movements. His Cousin had been correct about MacLeod's abilities with a sword. The sword he used to practice with was very unusual. It was not a typical fencing foil, it had a slightly curved blade and the handle was made of what Darcy would have sworn was ivory. There was what appeared to be a dragon head on the handle's end. It looked to be from the Orient. Darcy would ask about the sword when they were finished. MacLeod's movements were, as his Cousin had told him were somewhat dancelike. It appeared as though MacLeod and his sword were one. It had startled Darcy indeed when MacLeod quickly turned round and brought his sword down a bit too dangerously close to his neck.
"Good day Darcy." said MacLeod, as he brought his sword away from his friend's neck.
"Good day to you, MacLeod. I can see that my Cousin was correct, you are very good, but then I suppose you have had to be. Might I see your sword? It is unsual. I have never seen a sword such as this. Where was it made? Where did you have it from?" Darcy asked, in a somewhat envious tone.
"It was a gift from one of my teachers. My travels have taken me to many places and Japan is one of those many places. This particular sword is referred to as a katana. My teacher was a Master. In my travels, I have met many Immortals who were willing to impart their wisdom, especially if they have lived for many centuries. Their is a legend about one Immortal who is supposed to be the oldest living member of our race. He is supposed to be something like 3200 years old. I canna believe that myself. My first teacher was my Clansman; Connor. As I told ye at Whites, he is in the Royal Navy and is the Captian o' the HMS Virtuous." replied MacLeod.
"Does your Clansman know of Hadham, MacLeod? It seems to me if you say that he bears a grudge against all members of your Clan, he would have done something to hurt him as well." asked Darcy.
"Aye Darcy, Hadham has caused Connor much pain. We Immortals are like mortals in some ways. We fall in love as ye mortals do. Connor has loved dearly and greatly once, his wife was called Heather. I never knew her, for Connor was born in my grandfather's day. Not many years ago in the Terror in France, Hadham was instrumental in having Connor thrown into prison and sentenced to be guillotined. Connor was in love wi' a woman called Sarah Barrington. I am sure that he was going to ask her to marry him, though we are no' able tae father children, I am sure that they would have found some to adopt, but Hadham's treacheries changed all that. A friend of Connor's saved his life by entering his cell and knocking him out stealing his clothes. Sarah was too far away from Connor for him to be able to get her attention to say it was not him, in this way Hadham's treacheries caused Connor to lose the woman he loved very much." said MacLeod.
Mr. Darcy thought of another's treacheries and lies that had almost lost him his precious love, his Elizabeth. "I almost lost the only lady I met that made me think of marriage, this person told her lies that had prejudiced her against me. I never thought that I would have another chance to show her I was not like the man this person had depicted." said Darcy.
"Since Hadham has caused such pain for my Clansman and me, we have made a pact, whichever of the two finally caught wi' Hadham would have the honour of takin' his head. So if no' me, then Connor." said MacLeod as he put his katana aside and took up his fencing foil.
"Enough talk, we came here to practice and practice we will. I agree that this is a good exercise. I practiced for hours after the deaths of both my parents." said Darcy as he brought up his foil and stood at the ready.
MacLeod brought up his foil and crossed his with Darcy's. "En Garde!" said MacLeod and the two men began a series of short thrusts, feints, and parries. "Ye are good Darcy. It is too bad tha' ye are no' one o' us. You have had good teachers. Le Mont is one of the best. How long have ye been fencing wi' him?" enquired MacLeod.
"Eight years, but my Father began showing me some basics when I was fifteen. I have practiced off and on since then. It was a good way of dealing with the grief of losing my parents. I lost my Mother when I was sixteen and my Sister was six, then three years later I lost my Father. I felt so frustrated, for I had no idea how to care for a nine year old girl alone. My Aunt Lady Matlock, who is my Sister's godmother helped all she could but in the end, she was my responsiblity. Practicing helped work it all out." replied Darcy, as he quickly parried a quick thrust of MacLeod's foil. This went on for an half hour, when MacLeod's foil found it's mark first. As Darcy saluted the Immortal, Darcy noticed that MacLeod looked startled for a second and then an extremely watchful look came to MacLeod's face, a look similar to the one he had seen while he and his Cousin were visiting in Curzon Street.
In seconds, Darcy watched as MacLeod switched from his fencing foil to his katana in one very fluid moment and raised it high over his head. The door to their practice room opened to reveal, not as MacLeod was probably expecting; Damien Hadham, but another gentleman that Darcy did not recognize, but it was obvious that MacLeod did. This gentleman was shorter than both MacLeod and Darcy. He had flaxen hair with a natural curl to it and pale blue eyes set into a somewhat thin face.
"I take it you were not expecting me, dear boy." said the gentleman.
"Fitz!" exclaimed MacLeod.
"In the flesh. Just who were you expecting, laddie?" enquired Hugh Fitzcairn, of his good friend MacLeod.
MacLeod spat out his one word reply easily, "Hadham."
"Now he is a nasty piece of work. I saw the lovely Amanda outside, she tells me that he is hunting you." replied Fitz.
"Aye, happen he is, but he is no' goin' tae win. Hadham has cheated for the last time. He has murdered the last mortal member of the Clan MacLeod. I will tak' his head for a' the men on the Peninsula his treacheries has killed an' for Rachel an' Jamie." said MacLeod, in a emotion filled tone.
MacLeod's friend looked around and saw Darcy. He raised an eyebrow in enquiry at his friend. "Forgive me Fitz, this is Colonel Fitzwilliam's Cousin Darcy. My Clansman; Jamie was married tae their Cousin Rebecca. I have been helpin' tat protect her an' Jamie's Bairns from Hadham. Darcy, this is Fitzcairn, he is my verra good, old friend." said MacLeod, as he introduced Darcy to another of his best Immortal friends.
"I am pleased to meet you." replied Darcy.
"The same here dear boy. I have seen you here before, many times in fact, especially last spring. You looked as if you were struggling with a great problem that was weighing you down." said Fitz, in his irrepressibly friendly manner.
"I was, but not anymore. I would rather not speak of that time. The problem is resolved and that is all that matters." replied Darcy.
"What are ye doin' here Fitz?" asked MacLeod, of his good friend.
"I was just arriving for my weekly practice, laddie. One cannot let yourself become too soft, dear boy. I happened to sense....I mean see the lovely Amanda just outside. I wonder what had her in such a temper, she almost ran me through, dear boy. Then I asked why she was here and she told me that she was waiting for you, that you were practicing. That is when she told me that Hadham was hunting you." replied Fitz.
MacLeod gestured to his friend and he crossed the room. "Fitz, ye dinna need tae worry about Darcy, he kens somethin' of us, just as my Clansman Jamie did, an' Becca does. Jamie told me about Becca's Cousins while we were on the Peninsula. Ye ken that I was in Colonel Fitzwilliam's Regiment. Colonel Fitzwilliam's sister-in-law's lands run nearby Glennfinnan and she was born a Campbell, so she kens o' the two legends o' my Clan. The legends o' Connor and myself. I ken that I can trust Darcy and his Cousin tae keep the secret of Immortality. Amanda is no' happy wi' ye Fitz. She needed yer help tae break the bank at "Lady Montcliffe's" gaming house. Her "Nephew" caused a wee lass become one o' us too soon Fitz. 'Manda tried to protect her. I think that ye should help her, even 'Manda wouldna' lie about a wee lass like that." MacLeod told his friend in a quiet tone.
"MacLeod, even you know that anyone that is asked to help Amanda is just asking for trouble, but I will find out what she wants me to do, dear boy. Well I must leave you now, take care of yourself, laddie. Do not lose your head so to speak. I mean MacLeod, even I know that Hadham is dangerous, if he is hunting you...." replied Fitz, as the two Immortals clapped each other on the back.
"Ye tak' care o' yersel' too, Fitz. Amanda and I will cam tae Fitzcairn House later." said MacLeod, as Fitz left the practice room. Darcy and MacLeod went back to their practicing, this time "You have improved greatly. One day Darcy you will have got beyond your status as a beginner and will be up to facing me." came the smirking voice that was easily recognised as Lord Braxton. The two gentlemen turned to see the aforesaid "gentleman" lounging in the doorway to their practice room.
A look of anger came to Darcy's face, as Braxton entered the practice room. Braxton was one of the worst rakes on the Town. His dearest Elizabeth's description of him as Satan was spot on, and if MacLeod was correct, he was adding treason to his other crimes. For he knew that he was in an unholy alliance with Damien Hadham. It was no surprise though when his Cousin and MacLeod apprised him of Braxton's traitorous activities. Braxton was even worse than the bane of his whole existence; George Wickham, for he may have tried to seduce Georgiana, eloped with Lydia Bennet, had been a receiver of stolen artifacts*, but he was not a traitor.
"Do you wish to test this "beginner", Braxton?" replied Darcy.
"I do not think so, I would not wish to make the delectable Elizabeth a widow so soon after your wedding, Darcy." replied Braxton with a disgusting smirk in his voice.
"Braxton, I will say this only once, and only once, if you refer to my wife in that fashion, or even use her name again, we will meet and you will see how well this "beginner" can acquit himself in the defense of what is his own." replied Darcy, through clenched teeth.
"I am not afraid of you, Darcy." said Braxton.
"Perhaps ye should. If were ye, Braxton, I would leave before I say something that would cause serious harm to my guid health." said MacLeod, in a dangerously quiet voice.
"I never thought I would see this, the great Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley, friends with a barbarian from the Highlands of Scotland. Perhaps I should make your so delectable wife a delectable widow." said Braxton, in a perverse tone.
"D--you! D--you to h---! Braxton. We will meet right now." said Darcy, quite ready to plant Lord Braxton a facer.
"You are that sure of yourself are you, Darcy? So we meet now. I had originally come here to practice, but if you are so eager to die, than so be it Darcy." replied Braxton.
"MacLeod, will you be my second?" asked Darcy.
"Aye Darcy." replied MacLeod.
"I believe that I will have my good friend Hadham for my second." said Braxton, smirking, as he left the practice room to send a footman to his lodgings for him.
MacLeod did his best as Darcy's second, to first reconcile, and then prepare Darcy for his duel. "Darcy, ye must watch yersel' when ye fight Braxton. He is no' above cheatin'. Wi' Hadham as his second, he will cheat. As second, I will watch carefully. I ken ye dinna like tae be told this, but sometimes bein' o'er proud o' your skill can be your death. I am speakin' o' experience. Just watch Braxton. Ye ken just how dangerous and how evil he is. He is as dangerous and evil a Mortal, as Hadham is as dangerous and evil an Immortal." MacLeod told Darcy, as the two men made ready for battle.
There was one thing that MacLeod knew that Braxton did not, though he trusted his Clansman and now his widow and her two kinsmen with his secret, Hadham did not trust Braxton with his. He also knew that there had been two Quickenings the night before and they were near to where Hadham had his lodgings. MacLeod knew that Hadham was still alive, but he must have sought his bed after taking in two heads in one night. He did not think that, as quick to recover from this as Immortals were, he was sure that Hadham was still abed and would not be in very good mood if someone tried to wake him. This had happened to him before and Amanda knew not to wake him. He was going to make sure that Braxton had a very different second and he knew just who it would be. He would persuade Braxton to change his mind. He found Braxton in the entry way.
"Braxton, I dinna think that ye will find Hadham awake at this hour, nor will he wish tae be awakened at this hour and ye ken it. Choose another second." said MacLeod, as he brought his katana to Braxton's throat.
"Another second, I think not. I know of you, Hadham told me that you were nothing but a Highland savage." said Braxton, in an arrogant tone.
"As I ken what ye and Hadham are. I will find ye a second." said MacLeod, knowing just who he was going to ask.
MacLeod walked down the hall to the practice room where his friend was. When Hugh Fitzcairn turned at his sensing his friend's presence, MacLeod excused himself for his interruption of his friend's practice. "Fitz, I need yer help." said MacLeod, as he motioned his friend to come out into the hallway.
"What do you need dear boy?" asked Fitz.
"Fitz, Braxton is goin' tae fight Darcy. He though he would try tae wake Hadham. In his condition he is no' goin tae wake him. Ye ken that and so do I, but Braxton doesna. He will be needin' a second. Fitz, ye ken that Braxton cheats and will try tae cheat in this. Hadham found just the right Mortal tae ally himself with in his dealin's wi the Corsican and ye ken that Fitz. I just want tae keep my friend Darcy alive, ye ken that matter that he had pressin' on him in the spring was his wife." said MacLeod, in a tone that was for Fitz's ears alone.
"Ah the former Miss Elizabeth Bennet; the fairest flower if Hertfordshire. I wish I had had the good luck of meeting her before Mr. Darcy did. Then I would have had the chance to pluck Hertfordshire's most sweetest rose." said Hugh Fitzcairn.
"Fitzcairn! That is exactly why Darcy an' Braxton are fightin'. Dinna let Darcy hear you speak of his wife like that, or I will let Darcy fight you." said MacLeod in an outraged tone.
"I am sorry dear boy, I just got carried away. I have heard what has been said of her at "Lady Montcliffe's", especially by a certain Miss Bingley. Strange to be saying such things, when Mrs. Darcy's older sister is married to Miss Bingley's brother, who is the most amiable of good fellows." replied Fitz, in an appologetic tone.
"Aye Fitz, I have seen and heard Miss Bingley, her sister Mrs. Hurst and her husband at "Lady Montcliffe's" and from what Amanda has said that she has heard. Fitz, we both ken that if Braxton cheats, it will mean tha' he willna have a blunt tip on his foil and he will try tae kill Darcy that way. As his second, I am goin' tae stop him if he tries and ye ken how I am goin' tae stop him. If I must stop Braxton from cheatin' that ye ken what I need ye tae do, Fitz?" asked MacLeod.
"Of course, dear boy." replied Hugh Fitzcairn, as the two Immortals came even with a very annoyed Braxton.
"So just who is this second you are forcing on me MacLeod?" asked Braxton.
"Hugh Fitzcairn at your service, Braxton." replied Fitz.
"Hugh Fitzcairn, you must be joking, he is nothing but a dandy." said Braxton in an outraged tone.
Raising his sword to Braxton's throat, Fitz reminded the worthless traitor that he was more than able to be his second, as the three men reentered the practice room where Darcy was waiting.
MacLeod, Fitz, and Braxton returned to the practice room where Darcy waited. The two combatants faced each other across the room. They slowly crossed the room to stand in the center. MacLeod stood between the two men as they crossed their swords. "As I ken, this is to be a fight tae one draws first blood. Ye will begin on my signal. Ready, begin." said MacLeod, as Mr. Darcy and Lord Braxton began a series of feints and parries.
"MacLeod, Braxton is not using a blunt end. He truly wishes to kill your friend, laddie. You were spot on about his cheating." said Fitz, as the two Immortals watched the two combatants fight. For the most part, Darcy was clearly the better swordsman of the two, despite Braxton's taunting of Darcy for being a beginner. Though Darcy was the better swordsman, Braxton was the less honourable of the two, as both Immortals watched as Braxton began the steps that he knew would put him at an advantage. MacLeod knew this as Braxton came in for the kill so to speak. Before Braxton could stab his friend, MacLeod stepped out in front of Darcy as Braxton thrust home and as MacLeod collapsed back against a very surprised Darcy, who had dropped his sword to catch his friend.
He called out "Fitzcairn." Hugh Fitzcairn drew his sword and brought the hilt down on the back of Braxton's head rendering him senseless. Shortly after, MacLeod suddenly sat up, breathing heavily, as he began to breathe again.
"MacLeod will you need a doctor?" asked Darcy.
"I willna need a doctor. An Immortal heals quickly." replied MacLeod, as he felt the energy that healed all Immortals from any sort of injury. Fitz helped his freind up and the two Immortals soon had the practice room cleaned of any evidence that there was fight of any kind.
"Do not worry about this bounder, laddie. I will see to it that he forgets that any of this happened." said Fitz, as MacLeod and Mr. Darcy prepared to leave the fencing parlour.
"Fitz, Amanda and I will meet ye at The Three Crowns in an hour." said MacLeod.
"I will see you then, laddie." replied Fitz.
Darcy quickly returned to Grosvenor Square, and his dearest, loveliest Elizabeth and his sister. Having learned of his own mortality, he needed to be with those who were most dear to him in his life.
As soon as both Darcy and MacLeod had left the fencing parlour, Braxton regained his senses and sat up. "You are a cheat MacLeod." he called out, looking around the room. His head was still spinning from the blow to his head, but he saw Fitz standing over him with his sword.
"For your own good health and sake of your neck, I would forget this ever happened, or not be surprised if you happened to see my very good friend out on the street, if I were you." said Fitz, as he held his sword to his neck.
"You would not dare." said Braxton, trying to regain his arrogance.
"Would you care to try, laddie?" asked Fitz, as he brought his sword closer against Braxton's neck.
"You win for now, Fitzcairn, but do not crow to loudly of your win. I know you from "Lady Montcliffe's", and you cheat there also, and I will see that it comes out when I catch you at it." said Braxton, in the tone of one who hated to be thwarted, as he stood up to leave the fencing parlour.
When Braxton and Fitz had finally left the fencing parlour, the tall figure of Aaron Adams; Andre Le Mont's assistant walking past the practice room, stopped in the doorway and could be seen shaking his head, as if he had seen this sort of thing before. He soon entered his office and sat down at his desk. Aaron Adams was a tall, lanky young man who's face bore an almost permanent mask of boredom, as if there was nothing in this world that he had not seen before, despite his seeming young age. As soon as his he had his long legs comfortably streched out, he unlocked the hidden drawer in his desk and brought out what appeared to be a small leatherbound journal. If one were standing just behind the young man, one would notice a curious symbol embossed on the front cover and if that same person were still watching as Aaron picked up his quill to dip it into the ink, he would notice as the lace folds of his cuff fell back from his left wrist, one would notice a tattoo of the same mark.
Chapter 9: Beginning Posted on Saturday, 16 January 1999
"Mary, I need to look at my dress, I want to make sure that it is straight," said Kitty Bennet to her next older sister, in an excited voice. As she said this Mary was just adjusting the rose velvet riband that was tied prettily underneath the bodice of her new dusky-rose silk gown and checked the new hair style that Aunt Gardiner's abigail, Dinah had created for her.
"Yes the riband does look well woven through my hair. Now if only Lucas will like it," thought Mary to herself, or so she thought.
"Oh Mary, I do think that you are as nervous as I am. Just think, our first visit to Vauxhall. We are going out for our first evening with gentlemen and ladies closer to our age. Yes I liked going to the Pantomime Shows with our Cousins, but this is for grownups," said Kitty, overhearing her sisters spoken thoughts.
As Mary turned from the mirror, she smiled at her younger sister. "You are right, Kitty. I am nervous, I want Lucas to like my new dress," replied Mary.
"Mary, you do look very nice in your new dress. Now did I not say when I bought that gown for you, it would be perfect for you. I am glad that I found that in our Uncle Gardiner's warehouse. I am sure that Lucas will love your new dress, and the way Dinah fixed your hair. I do wish that I could wear my hair the same way. I have had Dinah try and it just does not work for my hair," replied Kitty, giving her next older sister a big hug and smile.
"I found this at Uncle's warehouse the same day and I thought it was perfect for you. I was not sure when to give it to you until tonight, I think that it will go well with your gown," said Mary, smiling at the memory of the visit to their Uncle Gardiner's warehouses.
Chapter 9: Continued Posted on Wednesday, 20 January 1999
Yes, Mary remembered the day that Aunt Gardiner took her and Kitty to their Uncle Gardiner's warehouses, and she found the lovely fan. She had thought that it would truly go well with the gown that Kitty had bought for herself. Kitty's gown was a celestial blue jaconet muslin, with a net overdress. Mary handed a flat package to her younger sister, who quickly opened it.
"Oh Mary, I remember this. I saw it when Aunt Gardiner took us to Our Uncle's warehouses. I wanted to buy it, but I had spent all my money. Thank you Mary. Tonight, we shall be unbearably fine*. This is just what I needed for my new gown. I just remembered I have something for you, I know they will go with your new gown," replied Kitty, as she gave Mary another flat package.
When Mary opened the package, she found a pair of long gloves, dyed a shade lighter than her gown. "Oh Kitty, they are just perfect. They compliment my gown. We shall be unbearably fine, as you say," replied Mary, in an excited tone. The two young ladies soon descended the stairs to await the arrival of Lord Thornewood's carriage. When the evening at Vauxhall Gardens was proposed by Lizzie, Lord Thornewood had offered to send his carriage to Gracechurch Street, and he, Lucas and Daniel, would escort the young Ladies to Vauxhall, where they would meet the rest of the party, a party made up of the Darcys, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod, and the Viscount and Viscountess Marsden.
*A very shameless reference to one of "Our Own Dear Jane's letters to her Sister Cassandra".
Chapter 9: Cont. Posted on Thursday, 28 January 1999
The Three Crowns, One Hour Earlier.
"Just remember 'Manda, dinna spend a' yer time pickin' everyone's pockets, or stealin' Ladies' trifles. Ye are tae be watchin' out for Hadham an' Braxton. The Colonel an' Becca will be there this night, wi' his brother, his Lady, an' Mister Darcy an' his family. Another thing 'Manda, ye are not tae steal from them." Duncan MacLeod lectured Amanda as she readied herself for Vauxhall. Tonight she would be the "urchin", circulating in the crowd, both watching out for Hadham and Braxton and indulging in her profession as thief. She did not like it that Macleod would make her return the things, of course she did tend to keep back a couple of things for her rainy day treasures. She really loved going to Vauxhall, but she wished that MacLeod was also going to be there, but ever since Darcy's duel with Braxton, he had decided to play least in sight.
"You are going to miss out on a grand evening, MacLeod. You cannot tell me that you would rather stay at home and entertain some children. I know that they are your Clansman's children and your Colonel's nephew and niece, but we always have fun at Vauxhall, do not deny it MacLeod, you love it." said Amanda.
"Aye 'Manda, I love it, but I owe it tae the Colonel, Becca, an' Lady Lochmaben. I told ye 'Manda, Lady Lochmaben is a Campbell an' was descended from one o' Deborah's brothers. I owe that much tae them. Dinna worry about me 'Manda, we will go tae Vauxhall another night, dressed as as Lady an' Gentleman." said MacLeod in a firm voice, as Amanda came from around the screen, dressed in her "urchin's" rags. "Dinna stay out o'er late, 'Manda." said MacLeod,teasingly.
"Do not stay up too late, MacLeod." replied his love cheekily, as she slipped out the window, and hurried down the backstairs.
Chapter 9: Continued Posted on Friday, 12 February 1999
Darcy's Townhouse: Grosvenor Square, The same time that Mary and Kitty are getting ready for Vauxhall
"Lizzie, do you honestly think I look beautiful?" asked Georgiana, as she looked in her sister-in-law's mirror.
"Yes I do and if I am not mistaken, Lord Thornewood will think so to." replied Lizzie, in a gently teasing tone. Lizzie had noticed that ever since the Marquis of Thornewood and Lucas had called in Grosvenor Square, the mornings that her sisters came from Gracechurch Street, both gentlemen and now, since her cousin Daniel had come to Town from Longbourn, he would accompany them. When the party to Vauxhall had been gotten up, it had been agreed that Lord Thornewood would drive Lucas, Daniel, and her sisters to Vauxhall, where they would all meet at the box that Lord Marsden had taken.
Georgiana had chosen a slip of sky blue worn under a gown of a cellophane crepe of white. This presented the effect of a sky with thin clouds. Lizzie chose a gown of emerald green silk, trimmed with the finest Mechlin lace. Both Ladies wore their hair up, though each had a different style. Lizzie's hair was up in front, with little curls on each side, and a loose curl flowed down her back. Georgiana wore her hair a la Grecque, with a riband of sky blue threaded thro' her hair.
When the two Ladies finished their toilettes, they both descended the stairs, where Mr. Darcy awaited his Lady and his Sister.
Posted on Friday, 19 February 1999
Darcy's Townhouse Scene Continued
As Lizzie and Georgiana descended the stairs, Darcy had just stepped out of his library into the hall and just glimpsed his Lady and his Sister at the head of the stairs. Darcy could feel his breath involuntarily leave him at the wondrous sight. He smiled at the Ladies as they reached the foot of the stairs. "As always, you look absolutely breathtaking, Elizabeth." said Darcy, as he took his wife's hand and raised it to his lips.
"Hardly that, William dear, for you are still breathing, are you not?" replied Lizzie in a teasing tone.
"I see you wear your Christmas gift* tonight. It pleases me that you wear it and you do honour to my Dearest Mother's memory." said Darcy, as he slipped Lizzie's hand into the crook of his arm.
"Thank you William. Now you must compliment your Sister." replied Lizzie.
"Georgian you look lovely tonight. The single gentlemen of our party will be rendered just as breathless as I, when I first sighted Elizabeth at the head of the stairs." said Darcy, smiling at his Sister, who colored at his compliment.
"William, I told you to compliment her, not pour the butterboat over her, let Lord Thornewood do that." said Lizzie, with a laugh.
Darcy helped both Ladies on with their pelisses, he put on his hat and all three left the house where the town carriage waited. Darcy handed his Lady and Sister into the carriage and soon joined them. "Vauxhall." Darcy told John Coachman and they were on their way.
Posted on Monday, 22 February 1999
"Marc, you promised your Mama and Papa that you will not tease Ness while you are at Rebecca's tonight, I do hope that little incident with the mouse was not a sign that you are going to break your promise. A gentleman does not break a promise five minutes after he makes it." Marcus David George Jonathan Fitzwilliam, Viscount Marsden lectured his son and heir Marcus Edmond James Thomas, Baron Fitzwilliam, a little boy of a mischievous six.
"But Papa, it was just a little mouse and Nessie did not scream so loud. She would not have screamed if Greykin had not jumped out of her lap like that. Nessie is not afraid of mice." replied little Lord Fitzwilliam.
"No, but your Nurse is, and Ness was showing her new kitten to Nurse to cheer her up. Having the toothache is not a pleasant thing. That is why I gave Nurse the night off and you and Ness are going to spend the night at Cousin Rebecca's with James Alexander and Margaret Jean." replied that little boy's Papa.
"Marcus, darling are you quite finished lecturing your son for the fortieth time? I really do need your help with this." said Lady Marsden, as she entered the nursery, attempting to fasten her necklace.
"Kate, my dear you look exquisite." said Lord Marsden, as he rose to a standing position after kneeling on one knee so he would be all the more able to lecture his son and heir.
"Mama, you look so pretty, does she not Nessie?" little Lord Fitzwilliam asked of his sister the Honourable Miss Nerissa Fitzwilliam, a sweet, but sometimes mischievous little girl of four, who turned from her place by the window.
"Oh yes, Mama does look pretty." replied Miss Nerissa, who was known by her family members as Ness.
Posted on Tuesday, 23 February 1999
"Yes, sprites, your Mama does look pretty tonight, and if you can just manage to stay out of mischief for the next five seconds, maybe I will be able to fasten your Mama's necklace around her neck. My son, indeed. He is always my son when he is into mischief." said Lord Marsden as he reached his hands around his wife's neck to fasten the chain of the necklace she had chosen to wear to Vauxhall that night.
"Marcus, he does resemble you when he is into mischief, you know. I was never mischievous as a girl." replied Lady Marsden, teasingly.
"So you intend to shock Elizabeth with your choice of gown tonight." said Lord Marsden in a similar tone. For though Katherine, Viscountess Marsden had chosen to wear a gown of emerald green as her cousin had chosen, hers was a little more shocking due to her personality. Lady Marsden's gown was also of silk, with a Brabant lace overdress, the neckline was definitely lower than the gown that Lizzie had chosen, a better background for the emerald necklace that was given to a Great great great Aunt by Mary, Queen of Scotland. Then being Kate Lady Lochmaben, she had dampened her petticoat so her dress fit closely to her form.
Posted on Wednesday, 24 February 1999
"Shock Elizabeth, no my love I am to shock you. Lizzie is to shock Darcy." replied Lady Marsden, in a pert tone, which caused her husband to throw back his head in good natured laughter, as he took his wife's hand and placed it in the crook of his arm.
"Come along sprites, the carriage is waiting for us." Lord Marsden told his children.
"Oh excellent, Nessie. Jamie has new soldiers that his Cousin Duncan gave him. We will have a smashing time." said little Lord Fitzwilliam, in an excited tone.
"An' Meggie has a new doll, we may play with. She said that her Cousin Duncan gave it to her." said Miss Nerissa Fitzwilliam, as they all made their way down the stairs.
They soon exited the house and were on their way to Curzon street where Colonel Fitzwilliam would be waiting for them with Cousin Rebecca. Lord Marsden had offered to share his carriage with his brother and his betrothed, for though nominally only their Father and Darcy knew of his brother's betrothal to their Cousin Rebecca, it had not taken his wife to perceive that his younger brother looked upon their cousin with more than just the guardian's eye. In helping their cousin to grieve for her husband, they had grown close and a betrothal had come of it.
"Marcus, has James introduced this cousin of Becca's Jamie to you?" Lady Marsden asked her husband, as she snuggled a little closer to her husband.
"No Kate, why do you ask?" replied Lord Marsden.
"It is nothing, but when I was growing up, there was a legend of a Duncan Macleod in Glennfinnan. Becca has told me that Lady Jersey added "and guest" to her invitation to her soiree and when they met at Madame Clotilde's, she intimated that she bring this cousin of Jamie's." replied Lady Marsden.
"A legend Kate, what sort of legend?" asked Lord Marsden.
"Oh just your ordinary story of a man that was killed in battle and then came back to life. They also say that this man had loved my Great great great great great great Aunt Deborah and lost her when she committed suicide after Duncan killed his Cousin Robert in a duel. I wish to meet this cousin of Becca's Jamie." replied Lady Marsden.
Posted on Thursday, 25 February 1999
"Dinna worry o'er much about things, Becca. My friend will be at Vauxhall, watchin' out for Hadham an' Braxton. I will tak' good care o' the bairns. I owe it both tae Jamie an' Lady Lochmaben." MacLeod told Rebecca, as she entered the nursery to say goodnight to the twins.
"I know that Duncan, it is just that when Jamie and Meggie have my Cousin Marcus' children to visit overnight like this, they tend to get into mischief. They do not obey as well as they should. They inherited much of their spirit from Kate, I am sorry to say." replied Rebecca MacLeod, with a smile for her son and daughter.
At that moment, Worth interrupted them to announce the arrival of Colonel Fitzwilliam. Rebecca and MacLeod walked back down to the drawing room, where the aforesaid gentleman waited for his betrothed and his Immortal Captain.
"Rebecca! you look lovely tonight." said Colonel Fitzwilliam, standing as she entered the room.
"Thomas, I was just up in the nursery saying good night to the twins. Duncan told me that a friend of his will be at Vauxhall tonight, watching out for Hadham and Braxton." said Rebecca, as her betrothed furtively embraced her and kissed her on the cheek.
Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled slightly at this news, for he had an idea just who this friend of MacLeod's was. The idea that there also were woman of MacLeod's race and the one in particular that Darcy had told him about at times was a thief, though he had been assured by MacLeod that this Amanda would not steal from them. He had seen her once, dressed in her urchin's rags.
"Are you sure that you will be able to handle the twins and my nephew and niece, MacLeod? I hope that this not too much of an imposition on you?" asked Colonel Fitzwilliam.
"Nae Sir, this is no' an imposition on me, I owe it tae yer sister-in-law. She was born a Campbell, an' I was in love with one o' her ancestors, all four bairns will be safe here." replied MacLeod.
"That is good. Though I am sure that Becky warned you of my nephew and niece's spirited behaviour." said Colonel Fitzwilliam, with a smile.
"They have Campbell blood, they were always like that." replied MacLeod, as a tear came unbidden to his eye, as he remembered his lost first love. He had seen the Marsdens out driving before and Lady Lochmaben was the picture of his poor lost Deborah. Yet he would meet her at the soiree that Lady Jersey had invited his Colonel and Becca to, Becca had told him that Lady Jersey had intimated that he was to be brought along. At this, he wondered if the Countess Lieven had said something about his rescuing Tanya.
"Is there something wrong, MacLeod?" asked Colonel Fitzwilliam, noticing MacLeod wiping something from his face.
"Nae Sir, just got somethin' in my eye." replied Macleod quickly, trying to swallow past the lump that grew in his throat when he thought of his poor lost Deborah.
"I do believe I know what this about. It is my sister-in-law. She makes you think of your home in the Highlands, does she not?" asked the Colonel.
"A wee bit Sir. I have seen her drivin' wi' Lord Marsden and she is the picture of the Deborah Campbell I knew in Glennfinnan a' those years gone. She was a very bonny lass." replied MacLeod.
"That was one of the reasons that my brother was attracted to Kate. She was at a ball held by my mother and Marcus caught a glimpse of her as she entered the ballroom at my parents house and he was utterly bewitched. He immediately asked my mother to introduce her to him." said Colonel Fitzwilliam, as a commotion could be heard in the entry hall.
"Thomas, I do believe that Marcus, Kate, and the children have arrived." Rebecca MacLeod stated mischievously, as Worth stood in the drawing room doorway and announced:
"The Viscount and Viscountess Marsden, Baron Fitzwilliam, and The Honourable Miss Nerissa Fitzwilliam."
Posted on Saturday, 27 February 1999
Two small whirlwinds came blowing into Rebecca MacLeod's drawing room almost knocking Worth down. "Uncle James!" they cried out excitedly, as they hurried over to hug their Uncle.
"Marcus! Nerissa! You will appologise to Mr. Worth right this minute. You almost knocked him over." said Lady Marsden, as she quickly entered the drawing room in a futile attempt to keep her son's and daughter's enthusiasm at seeing their uncle from getting out of hand.
"We are sorry, Mr. Worth. We did not mean to bump into you," little Lord Fitzwilliam and his sister told Rebecca MacLeod's unflappable butler.
"That is much better. Forgive us Becca, but it is very obvious that the children truly did not wish to come here tonight, is it not?" asked Lady Marsden, teasingly. Just as her husband was beginning to enter the drawing room, two more small whirlwinds blew themselves into the drawing room all the way down from the nursery.
"Meggie! It is Marc and Ness. We will have a smashing time. Do hurry up." said young Master James Alexander Fitzwilliam Darcy MacLeod to his twin Sister as she attempted to struggle off the banister.
"Jamie! How many times have I told you that no matter how much of a hurry you are in, neither you are your sister are to use that particular method of descending from the nursery. Yes your cousins are here. Now you must apologise to your Cousin Marsden." scolded Rebecca MacLeod.
"Yes Mama. We are sorry Cousin Marsden." the twins said, trying to sound extremely repentant.
As this occurred, Captain Duncan MacLeod stood quietly by the mantelpiece observing the arrival with a wistful, but amused look on his face.
"Forgive me Kate, Marcus. I almost forgot, this is Jamie's cousin Duncan. Duncan, these are Thomas' brother and sister-in-law; Lord and Lady Marsden." said Rebecca as she introduced the Marsdens to the Immortal Captain.
Lady Marsden smiled to herself, for she had wished to meet this man. "Duncan MacLeod? Were you named for your legendary Clansman?" asked Kate in a teasing manner. Duncan MacLeod smiled that enigmatic smile he was known for and replied: "No' quite milady."
Posted on Thursday, 4 March 1999
Number 19 Portman Square: The not so modest home of Mr. and Mrs. Basil Hurst and Miss Caroline Bingley who resides with them.
"Yes, I do believe that I shall take the shine out of Miss Eliza Bennet." Caroline Bingley said to herself, as she readied herself for the grand night at Vauxhall that had been planned for that evening.
"Caro, the sooner you accept that she is married to Mr. Darcy the better. I do not wish to upset you dearest, for I do know what happens when you become upset or worried." thought Louisa Bingley Hurst to herself, as she entered her sister's room and hearing her sister's spoken thoughts. "I do wish you would not wear those bracelets, they do not go with your dress." said Louisa Hurst, as Caroline turned around.
"Surely you do not think that Louey, I think they are perfect." countered Miss Caroline Bingley, who wore her favorite orange silk gown and feathered turban. Around her neck she wore a necklace of amber beads that she had inherited from her Great Aunt Caroline, who had also been her godmother. On her wrists, she wore a pair of bracelets that had come from a place only Louisa Bingley Hurst knew, for only she was aware of her sister's problem. A problem that could result in her being transported, or worse, hung. Her sister also wore a necklace of pearls that Louisa recognized as belonging to her sister-in-law; Jane.
"Caro, what if the person to whom they belong happens to see you wear them at Vauxhall tonight? Besides I have heard that Jane and Charles will also be of the party that will be in Lord Marsden's box. Please Caro, at least not the pearls." said her sister in a concerned tone, though she knew that all the persuasion in the world would not convince her sister not to wear the pearls or the bracelets.
Chapter 9 Continued. Posted on Thursday, 24 June 1999
The Bingley's House, Jermyn Street, about the same time the Hursts and Caroline Bingley are getting ready to go to Vauxhall Gardens
Jane smiled at the coiffure that her abigail, Violet, had created for her. "That is just perfect, Violet. You did an excellent job." said Jane.
"Thank ye, Ma'am. Is that all ye wish Ma'am.?" asked Violet.
"I would just like my jewel box now Violet." replied Jane. The young Lady's maid brought her mistress' jewel box to her and placed it on her dressing table. "Thank you Violet, that will be all for now." said Jane. After Violet withdrew, Jane opened her jewel box and began looking for the items she wished to wear to Vauxhall that night. She had planned to wear the pearls that she received from her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner for her Confirmation gift when she was twelve. (Forgive me, but I do not really know at what age the Anglican Church member is confirmed, but I do know that it is done. All I know is that I am Catholic and I was confirmed at the age of 9) Yet she could not find them, and she had looked and looked. She could not think when she had last seen them. She had just begun to look through the jewel case again, when the connecting door to her husband's bed chamber opened and her beloved Charles entered her chamber.
"My Dear Jane you look positively angelic, but what is this, you look puzzled my Dear." said Charles.
"I am, Charles. I wished to wear my pearls to Vauxhall tonight, but I cannot seem to find them." said Jane in a voice of consternation.
"My Dear, I have something else for you, something in the way of a present, a present in honour of the happy news you gave and our fourth month wedding anniversary." said Charles, as he gave Jane a long jewel case. Jane smiled as she took the case.
"Thank you Charles." said Jane. Opening the box, she found a lovely necklace of very tasteful sapphires. "Oh Charles, they are lovely." said Jane, in a voice of wonder.
"I saw them at Rundell's and I thought how much they match the blue of my angel's eyes." said Charles, as he gently kissed his wife.
Jane carefully lifted the necklace out of the box and placed them around her neck and Charles gallantly fastened the clasp.
Posted on Wednesday, 17 November 1999
Damien Hadham met Lord Braxton at his lodgings at The Albany, and the two were soon on their way to Vauxhall. Damien Hadham rejoiced deep down inside, as he knew that MacLeod would not dare to show his face there, after Braxton's duel with Darcy. Braxton had informed him that Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod would be there that evening. After a few glasses of an excellent port, the "gentlemen" left for Vauxhall Gardens in Hadham's curricle.
I must inform my Gentle Readers that not only were the major players of this my little opus converging on Vauxhall, but three of the non-fictionary characters on their way there, as Count Lieven and his Countess, Prince Esterhazy and his Princess, and last but certainly not least, George Child-Villiers, Fifth Earl Jersey and his inimitable Countess Sarah Sophia were also on there way, as it was not a Wednesday night and the Jerseys had invited both the Russian Ambassador and the Austrian Ambassador to Vauxhall with them.
"I really must thank you for inviting myself and Khristoff, Sarah. Did I understand you correctly that the Darcys, the Marsdens, and Our Dear Colonel and his Rebecca will be at Vauxhall this evening?" asked Dorothea Lieven, curiously.
"Oh yes. Lady Matlock informed me just this morning." replied Lady Jersey.
"Sarah, it was kind of you to also think of myself and Paul. I believe we will have a wonderful time. Do you not think so, Paul?" said Therese Esterhazy.
"Yes, Mein Liebchen" replied Prince Paul, as the Jersey's barouche made it's way to the gardens.
Posted on Wednesday, 1 December 1999
Amanda thought she had been before everyone who were on their way to Vauxhall, but just as she arrived, she felt the unmistakable presence of another Immortal. "Strange," she thought. "Yet I have the feeling I know who it is. I know I have felt it before, mainly neared Andre Le Monte's Fencing Parlour. Show yourself." said Amanda.
"Why if it is not the lovely Amanda. Have you ever thought of leaving everyone's favorite Scot, for someone who is a more suitable match? You are robbing the cradle you know. MacLeod is still the "green boy" you referred to him as in Paris." said Aaron Adams, otherwise known to only the very few, the very few indeed, as Methos, the oldest known living Immortal.
"I think that MacLeod suits my purposes just fine. I do not like older men, besides the Lady Ann Whatshername has eyes for you alone, or so I noticed the other night at Lady Montcliffe's. You remember her, she was the one in the scarlet number with the low décolletage and the dampened petticoat, not that I know anything about that. I hear she is to be here tonight, at least she said so, last night." replied Amanda, cheekily.
"I will keep that in mind, have fun Amanda Darling. Don't get too greedy. You can always return another night. Don't lose your head," retorted Aaron Adams, as he made his way into the gardens, looking for his ladylove, Lady Ann Haker.
Posted on Saturday, 15 January 2000
I dedicate this to all Dwiggies who have made the DWG the wonderful haven it is on the occasion of the publishing of "The New York Times" article, but most of all to Our Great Lady Patroness, Ann Haker, for all her hard work on our most exceedingly favorite site on the Web.
It was at about 10 of the clock, when the Darcys, Marsdens, Bingleys, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod met by agreement at the box Lord Marsden had taken. They were soon joined by Lord Thornewood, Lucas Collins, Daniel Collins, with Misses Mary and Catherine Bennet. The youngest members of the party soon paired up to take one of the walks, Lizzie was happy to see that they had taken one of the better traveled ones. Mary and Lucas discussed the new poetry, and some of the sights they had seen since their arrivals in London.
"Daniel met Mr. Morgan-Jones before he returned to England or Wales anyway? How fascinating. His lecture was most interesting. I must confess, though having seen the Niagara Falls presented at the Panorama, I still think that it will be much more to my liking to actually see the real falls and be splashed by the water." said Mary, as they walked along. "I must ask, how are the Whittiers? I read about their wedding in a letter I received from Naomi and Ruth just before we journeyed to Derbyshire to spend Christmas with Mr. Darcy and Lizzie. I presented My Sister and Brother with three of Marion's Grandchildren. They were just days before the weddings. They were well received at Pemberley, even by Miss Darcy's spaniels." said Mary.
"Yes, Daniel and I both had the opportunity to make Mr. Morgan-Jones' acquaintance. He told us much of his adventures in the company of the Ojibwa. It was most fascinating, just as you have discovered in hearing his lecture. The Whittiers are well, and I believe that by the time Dan and I return to America, Tempe will have had the baby." replied Lucas.
In a more secluded, and less well lit section of Vauxhall, the Hursts and Miss Caroline Bingley walked along, impervious of the talk around them. Things like: "If it is not "The Pumpkin Duchess" and references to "La Duchesse du Pompion". As Miss Caroline Bingley came even with a bit of the shrubbery along the walk, oblivious to everything that was being said, or how or where she positioned her arms, she did not notice the hand attached to an arm in a ragged sleeve reach out and slip both the bracelets she wore off both arms.
Just as quickly, a shadow hurried away, but as the shadow was hurrying away, she again felt the undeniable presence of another of her race. "Show yourself." said Amanda Darieux, Bareback rider, card dealer, and thief extraordinaire.
Aaron Adams was slouched against a tree that was just even with Amanda's path. He lazily clucked his tongue at her as made her way. "Naughty, naughty. Yet why that one? She obviously has the most execrable taste. Look at the color she chooses to wear. I too have seen her at "Lady Montcliffe's" and her tendency to wear the entire family collection, is a temptation even you could not resist, yet they are tasteless, as she is. They quidnuncs are correct in calling her "The Pumpkin Duchess". Let us just see what sort of prize you have captured." said Aaron Adams (Methos).
Amanda showed the older Immortal the bracelets, she had taken from Miss Caroline Bingley.
"Where could she possibly have gotten these?" asked Methos.
"From the Marquise Leroux. I saw that witch take them. You may not know this but, she takes things. I think it is a problem. I have seen her do this at "Lady Montcliffe's". I saw her take the bracelets and decided to take them back." replied Amanda.
Posted on Thursday, 13 July 2000
The young people enjoyed the entertainments of Vauxhall very much. They especially enjoyed the music, dancing, and the fireworks display, which was oooooohed and aaaaaahed at with great appreciation. But it was not just the younger set that enjoyed the entertainments. Of course the younger people would not risk their reputations by perambulating along the "Dark Walk". That was for the grown-ups, such as Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod, Lord and Lady Marsden, Lizzie and Darcy, and Jane and Charles Bingley. Of course the younger set were happy to walk along the more illuminated paths, to speak on various subjects. Mary and Lucas spoke of the new poetry, sights that they had seen, and America. Kitty asked her cousin Daniel questions about his journey beyond the Mississippi, but it was apparent to Mr. Daniel J. Collins that his cousin was easily distracted, as she kept looking about for something or someone, so he just smiled. Miss Darcy and Lord Thornewood spoke of shared memories of his visits to Pemberley and Darcy House.
As the older contingent of the Darcy/Marsden/Fitzwilliam/Bingley party made their way along the "Dark Walk", as usual, each couple separated from the others. Lizzie was appropriately shocked, when her Darling William complained of being tired of all the continuous walking, and sat down on a bench in one of the alcoves along the "Dark Walk" and pulled her onto his lap, and began to kiss her with great vigor for someone who claimed that he was tired. This brought a peal sweet laughter from Lizzie. Lord and Lady Marsden were similarly occupied, except that Kate was just a tad more shocking in her behaviour, as it was she who had taken the initiative, which made My Lord Marsden to laugh in an extremely good-natured tone. " 'Sweet Kate of my consolation' " we are shocking Elizabeth and Darcy, in the extreme." said Lord Marsden, in a tone of mock protest. To whit, his Lady replied, "My Darling Rogue, I do think that Lizzie is already shocking Darcy all by herself." At this point, My Lord Marsden once more brought his mouth to his Lady's and kissed her most thoroughly.
Jane and Charles Bingley also found a similar spot to become similarly occupied, but being a gentleman who did not wish to hurt his Sweet Jane in anyway, his attentions were conducted more or less with great propriety.
As Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod made their way along the "Dark Walk", they were unaware that there were forces that were about to converge on spots concealed, two of which sought to put periods to their existence, the other, to in her own way, prevent this.
Posted on Saturday, 2 September 2000
Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca MacLeod made their way along the "Dark Walk", unaware that Damien Hadham and Lord Braxton lay in wait for them.
The couple spoke of their plans for their wedding and remove to Scotland at the end of the Season.
"I will be happy just knowing that Hadham and Braxton will have been dealt with and you are safe Becky." said Colonel Fitzwilliam, reaching out to take his betrothed's hand and laced his fingers with hers.
As they came closer to the spot where Damien Hadham hid in order to ambush them, Hadham loaded his pistol and continued to watch for his intended victims as they made their way along the walk towards him. Hadham was aware of at least two Immortals in the area, one of these Immortals' signature was very strong, yet he did not recognize who it might be, the other was not MacLeod, and this he was sure of.
Hadham was correct, as Amanda, her inner sense was alive to the danger that Duncan's Colonel and his betrothed were in.
Damien Hadham was sure that with the explosions of the fireworks illuminating Vauxhall that night would cover the sound of pistol shots. As Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca walked, he turned to kiss her, Hadham slowly raised his pistol and began to aim it. Lord Braxton stood dumbfounded at this, yet he wanted to see the man was going to bring him to trial, and he would be dashed if he was going to hang for his crimes.
Amanda, swiftly and silently made her way closer and closer to where Hadham and Braxton were hidden. She was not more than half a foot from Braxton, and saw what Damien Hadham was preparing to do. Smiling a cat like smile to herself, Amanda deliberately tripped against Braxton, and deftly removed Braxton's watch and fob. In tripping against Lord Braxton, he bumped into Damien Hadham, and upset his aim.
"D-------n! Be more careful Braxton." said Hadham. As Braxton regained his balance, and Amanda hurried away, Hadham tried to regain his aim, but by then Colonel Fitzwilliam and Rebecca had moved too far out of the aim of his pistol. When Hadham looked around to discover where the Immortal he sensed was, he caught the figure of an urchin hurrying down the "Dark Walk", and as he made his way towards the figure, it turned, and bowed courtly, and spoke:
"Aw ree voyer Monsooers." said Amanda, and hurried away.
Two days following the night at Vauxhall, found Lizzie, Georgiana, Lady Marsden, and Lady Matlock in their Court Dress, complete with white lace, hoops, plumes and lappets, as Lizzie and Georgiana waited to be presented to the Queen at one of her Drawing Rooms.
"I am going to faint Lizzie, I just know I will." whispered Georgiana, in a frightened tone.
"Take some deep breaths, Dearest, just follow Elizabeth's example. Just put your mind on something else." said Lady Matlock, in a reassuring tone.
"Yes Georgie, Dear, all things considered, she is just a person, even if she is the Queen. We are just paying another morning call." interjected Lady Marsden, in her own inimitable fashion.
"Katherine! Only you would say that." remonstrated Lady Matlock, with a laugh.
Before Lady Matlock could go on, the footmen opened the doors, and took Lizzie's and Georgiana's cards, and announced the party," The Countess of Matlock and the Viscountess Marsden present Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Miss Georgiana Darcy."
The four women carefully made their way to the dais, where Her Majesty, Queen Charlotte sat waiting to receive them. Lizzie and Georgiana, both made graceful curtsies, and Her Majesty smiled and beckoned to both young Ladies.
"I velcome you bot'," and Lizzie and Georgiana smiled back and thanked Her Majesty, kindly. To whit Her Majesty, declared Lizzie and Georgiana," ferry pretty und ferry nice girrls."
After politely taking their leave, and as soon as the women had left the palace, and were out of earshot of any courtier, Lizzie made a swiping motion at her forehead, as if to say, she was glad that, that was over.
"Lizzie! sometimes I wonder if you are too much influenced by Dearest Katherine." said Lady Matlock, in a mock scold.
"I was a hoyden all by myself, before I made her Ladyship's acquaintance. Now we are two hoydens together and I am sure that was how she felt after her presentation was over." replied Lizzie, in a teasing tone. Smiling at her cousin-in-law.
"Oh yes, that was exactly how I felt. Especially since I not only had the eyes of the ton upon me that day, I had my Dear Aunt Meg's eyes upon me. She was so sure I would do something wrong." replied Kate, as the four women entered the Matlock's Town Carriage, and made their way to Gunter's to celebrate Lizzie's and Georgiana's presentations. The Earl had said that he would meet the Ladies there, as had the Viscount Marsden and Mr. Darcy. As the carriage made its way, Kate recounted the story of her presentation at Court to Lizzie and Georgiana, and this elicited many giggles. Which was how the gentlemen found their Ladies, as they disembarked from the carriage.
"Telling Lizzie and Georgie all about your misadventures at Court, 'Sweet Kate of My Consolation'?" asked Lord Marsden, in a teasing tone.
"Well, Lizzie and Georgiana were a bit intimidated by the nonsense of the thing. So I did tell them about how easy my presentation went, My Dearest Rogue." countered Kate, as they all entered Gunters.