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Chapter 46 ~ Serious Regrets
July 4, 1813,
Matlock House
Following her heated argument with Darcy, Lady Elisabeth opted to remain in her room the rest of the evening. She endured a short visit from her mother who came to make sure she was well. Elisabeth said that she was only tired. The excuse sounded pathetic to her own ears but thankfully her mother made no comment on it.
Elisabeth ate her dinner in peace, undisturbed by having to carry on conversation, and went to bed at an early hour although sleep refused to come until well after midnight. In the gathering darkness she dwelled on every angry word and expression that had passed between her and her much loved cousin. Shortly before she fell asleep Elisabeth vowed that she would mend things with him the following day.
Darcy had found himself in something of a similar situation as Elisabeth, though he did not know it. He wanted to quit Matlock House immediately after his argument with his cousin but when he told his aunt of his plans only a few moments before he was to send his servant to ready a horse, Lady Matlock would not hear of him leaving. If he must go, she said, he could at least delay his departure until the following morning. There would be nothing he could do before then. Darcy was forced to agree to the truth in this statement but he would not dine with the family for fear Elisabeth would be there, so he locked himself away in his room, claiming estate business demanded his attention.
In truth, Darcy spent the evening staring morosely into the fire in his room and consuming a good deal more port than he was normally inclined to do. He vowed that he would not remain at Matlock. He could not stay and watch as Elisabeth fell in love with Hamerton. It would be pure torture. Even if his Uncle refused to consent to a match between them it would be of small comfort to Darcy as he would still have to live with the knowledge that Elisabeth cared nothing for him and was yearning for Lord Hamerton.
Early in the morning of July fourth, just as the sky was beginning to brighten, though it was still two hours away from the sunrise, Darcy was awake and making final preparations for his removal to Pemberley. He would have liked nothing better than to have left the house before anyone else was about but he could not leave without seeing Georgiana, who was to remain with her Aunt and Uncle, and he was determined that he would meet with his Uncle that morning. Darcy had to tell him something of what had occurred the day before. It may be considered very wrong of him to interfere so in his cousin's life; to try and spoil her happiness - he might have been accused of doing so for selfish means but Darcy was convinced that Elisabeth would never find happiness with Lord Hamerton.
Darcy was not the only one stirring at this early hour. In her room down the hall Lady Elisabeth had given up on getting more than three hours of sleep. Elisabeth was anxious for the day to really begin so she might take the opportunity of addressing her cousin and explaining the truth of the matter to him - if only he would listen. She stood in the doorway of her balcony, wrapping her dressing gown tightly around her to keep out the early morning chill. She watched as the darkness and eerie shadows slowly retreated through the trees. The green of the grass slowly made itself visible and she saw a few servants moving here and there as they began their day's tasks. Elisabeth felt the cool dew settle around her and when at last she turned away to go inside she found her feet were wet and cold. She had not realised she had been standing there so long, thinking of what she would say to her angry cousin.
Lady Elisabeth rang for her maid around seven o'clock and she told Anna to try something new with her hair - hoping this would make the minutes pass by less noticeably. The time Anna took was enough to distract Elisabeth for a few seconds here and there from the task that lay ahead of her but by half past the hour Elisabeth's hair was styled satisfactorily. After thanking and dismissing Anna, all she could do was wait. Elisabeth tried to read but soon gave up and took to rearranging her dressing table. However, she finished with that quickly enough. At a loss, Elisabeth paced around her room before wandering onto the balcony, hoping the cold air would fortify her and distract her from the nervous fluttering in her stomach.
She leaned against the far wall of her balcony, looking over the edge and back to the house. On the first floor she could see a light shining out of the study - her father was already awake and working before breakfast was served. How like him that was. She glanced along the windows at her level and saw light shining out of her mother's room, so she knew Lady Matlock was already awake. Elisabeth mused that she must have inherited her tendency to be an early riser from both of her parents.
Lady Elisabeth's investigation of the house ceased upon hearing a sound she swiftly identified as horse's hooves churning up the rocks along the drive. She squinted her eyes in that direction and was unable to smother a flutter of panic when she recognised the rider as her Cousin Darcy. "He is just going for a morning ride..." Elisabeth attempted to reassure herself. Then her eyes caught sight of his servant following and the valises attached to the servant's saddle. Sighing, Lady Elisabeth turned away from the balcony and rushed indoors. She knew that it was now too late to apologise and explain to her cousin; Darcy had left believing the worst and she could do nothing to change that.
Elisabeth knew that if she was to feel there was any hope for her and Darcy, she would have to confess to her mother everything that had transpired. She quickly slipped down the hallway and knocked on Lady Matlock's door. The maid answered the door and when she saw who it was she immediately opened the door wide for Elisabeth to enter. Lady Matlock took one look at her daughter's troubled expression and told her maid that she would ring for her later. As soon as the door closed the Countess said in great concern to her daughter who had moved to stand in front of her.
"Something is worrying you, Child, what is it?" She looked into her daughter's face but found herself none the wiser as to the trouble. Lady Elisabeth started to reply but, to her shock, she found herself incapable of words as a small sob escaped and tears started to stream down her face.
"Oh, Beth..." Lady Matlock exclaimed, jumping up from her chair and pulling Elisabeth to her. She did not ask the cause of such a flood of tears but set about soothing Elisabeth as best she could, leading her to a small settee. The two of them sat together for some moments, Elisabeth's head against her mother's shoulder as she continued to cry, while Lady Matlock rubbed Elisabeth's back and arms in quiet support.
The bright light of the morning sun was filling the Countess's dressing room when Elisabeth's tears finally came under enough control for her to relate the source of her sadness. Elisabeth told her mother of the agreeable ride she and her cousin had taken two days before and how easy they had come to be in each other's company. She told of the meeting by the lake - but left our important details regarding her cousin's dress - and how Lord Hamerton had come upon them suddenly. Elisabeth sniffled her way through the retelling of how Hamerton had detained her in the hallway, but she left out her cousin's appearance in her bedchamber - even Lady Matlock might have not seen the humour in that. Lady Elisabeth at length related her improper action with Lord Hamerton in the garden the day before, how Cousin Darcy had come upon them and the very angry exchange that had then taken place.
"Oh M-Mama, I have just seen Cousin Darcy riding off the p-property! He had his servant and l- luggage with him... He has left without my getting the opportunity to tell him how th-things really stand," Elisabeth's voice, as a result of the lump in her throat that she was trying to talk around, held a slightly higher pitch to it than normal while she stuttered through her story.
Lady Matlock brushed Elisabeth's curls from her damp cheeks as she spoke. "I knew William was leaving this morning - I thought it was sudden but he said he had business at Pemberley. Now I see his real reason was to avoid you... Oh, my dear girl... Don't take offense. See the motivation behind his doing that. Do you fail to see how it must pain him to think that you are in love with Hamerton?"
"I had not thought of that." Elisabeth brushed a hand over her eyes. "Oh, but Mama... How do I tell him the truth? I can hardly follow him all the way to Pemberley and demand he hear me out!" She swatted angrily at the tears that appeared once more.
Lady Matlock laughed gently at Elisabeth's tirade and wrapped an arm around her. She was about to reply to her daughter's fears when the door opened and Lord Matlock appeared. "Helen... I have just been... Dear God! Elisabeth, what is the matter?" Elisabeth's anxious father asked, striding across the room and pulling up a chair in front of his wife and daughter.
"What is the matter?" he asked again, recovering a little from his surprise of seeing his youngest child in tears. A not altogether pleasant idea occurred to him. "Has this anything to do with that scoundrel, Lord Hamerton?"
Elisabeth was so surprised by her father's obvious knowledge that her tears stopped and she was able to ask with remarkable control over her voice, "What do you know of Lord Hamerton?"
"My nephew has just left here... Darcy asked to see me before he left. Elisabeth, your cousin has told me something of what happened yesterday. I know that Hamerton imposed himself upon you and Darcy is under the impression that Lord Hamerton is going to ask for your hand in marriage, of which, I tell you child, I will not give. Darcy has warned me to watch over you." Lord Matlock leaned forward in the chair, demanding, "Has this anything to do with Lord Hamerton?"
Lady Matlock could feel Elisabeth's arm tense as she learned what her Cousin Darcy had done. She rightly interpreted Elisabeth was once more annoyed by his intervention and whispered to Elisabeth, "I would take that as a good sign... William still cares."
The Earl thought this a strange thing to be said and it certainly did not answer his question. Lady Matlock saw her husband's confusion and looked to Elisabeth, squeezing her hand comfortingly. "May I tell you father?"
Lady Elisabeth nodded her consent and Lord Matlock look expectantly at his wife.
"Hugh, indirectly, Lord Hamerton has a part in Elisabeth's present sorrow," she started to explain. "As William told you, Lord Hamerton imposed himself on Elisabeth yesterday and he was responsible for putting a stop to it. However, the incident led to a misunderstanding between himself and Elisabeth. She has just been telling me what was said. Her cousin assumed that Lord Hamerton means to court and marry Elisabeth and Elisabeth has said that Hamerton has stated such an intention to her. Now, William mistakenly thinks that Elisabeth has fallen in love with Hamerton and wants to marry him, but that is not the case - in fact I am willing to guess that your daughter would be most grateful for your refusing to admit Hamerton anywhere near her, although that is difficult with Edith here. My dear, to speak the truth, our daughter has actually fallen in love with none other than William and, given what I have observed over these last weeks and his latest action, I'm certain he loves her in return."
Lord Matlock let out the breath he had been holding, falling back in his chair and exclaiming. "Now, that I never saw coming. Elisabeth, you love your cousin?" he could not help asking a little incredulously.
"Yes, Papa," Elisabeth answered, blushing hotly. "I tried to make him understand that it was not Hamerton that I love but I couldn't do that without confessing myself entirely..."
Lady Matlock continued, "Elisabeth now fears that William's feelings for her have changed because of this business with Hamerton. Her great quarrel with William and the fact that she just saw him leaving have brought about these tears. Just before you came in she was asking me how she was ever to tell him the truth."
"Oh, Beth..." Lord Matlock clasped one of Elisabeth's hands and wiped away one remaining tear. "It will come out in the end and all will be well..."
"I see where Janet inherited her ever optimistic nature, Papa." Elisabeth smiled slightly as her father chuckled.
"Speaking of Janet, I was going to say that if worse comes to worst, there is always her wedding," Lady Matlock added. "William cannot refuse to come to the wedding of his cousin and friend and if by some chance that the stupid boy does we can always bring Georgiana in on the scheme and have her write to her brother and remark off-handedly that Lord Hamerton does not come here anymore and everyone in the household is very happy with this development, particularly you..."
Lord Matlock watched as his daughter happily nodded her agreement to such a plan before addressing his wife. "I never thought you capable of such conniving as that, my dear. For a moment, I am certain I saw you turning into one of those dreadful matchmakers!"
"Indeed, where my children and their happiness is concerned, I shall do whatever is in my power! Even if I stoop so low as to matchmake, Hugh!" replied Lady Matlock, her eyes twinkling at her husband as she nudged a laugh out of Elisabeth.
The remainder of a day that had started out so terribly for Elisabeth passed without too much to try her patience. Shortly after regaining her composure, Lady Elisabeth went to church with her family. Mr. and Mrs. Whitting accompanied them home and stayed to luncheon. Elisabeth quite enjoyed the company of Mrs. Whitting, Elisabeth was able to confirm her suspicion that Mrs. Whitting was a dear, taking an interest in everything but without being meddlesome. After the Whittings left, Elisabeth went to spend a quiet hour at the Dougarys', chatting with Hannah while they played with little Anna in the garden.
One thing did cause Lady Elisabeth some unease, but she was hardly the only one. When Lord Hamerton called at the house that afternoon he was promptly shown into Lord Matlock's study and a few thought they heard raised voices. It came as no surprise to those who were well-informed that Hamerton left the house without a word to anyone else, save the stable hand who was told brusquely to fetch his horse.
Lord Matlock soon came to find his wife and Elisabeth. He told them that the exchange with Hamerton had started out well enough but when he found he was not going to achieve his goal Lord Hamerton quickly forgot whatever good manners he had recently acquired. All the same, the Earl assured his wife and daughter that Hamerton would not be calling there again. Lord Matlock, accompanied by Elisabeth, presently went in search of Lady Edith to apprise her of the situation that had occurred and of the action that had been taken.
Edith was not in the least surprised to learn anything that was told to her by father and daughter and was quick to reassure them that she felt no ill-will towards the Fitzwilliam family. She thanked them for the offer of using a carriage if she wanted to see her brother but Edith said she did not think that would be necessary.
So it was that the day went by with only Lord Hamerton disrupting the peace of the household. Elisabeth was still disappointed and worried by Darcy's return to Pemberley, but she was a little heartened by the thought that he would have to attend Bingley and Janet's wedding. If she had no alternative, Elisabeth could wait to see him until then - besides, that ought to give her enough time to contemplate how she would explain the whole to him.
Chapter 47 ~ The Sensitive Issue
July 5, 1813
Matlock House, Derbyshire
The family had only just broken up following their breakfast and were going about their business of the day when, to the great surprise of Lady Matlock who happened to be looking out the window towards the road, saw her eldest son riding up at a great speed. She rushed through the rooms and came upon him just as he was entering the main hall.
"Tom! What brings you back here so suddenly?" cried Lady Matlock, not only shocked by the sudden and unexpected arrival of her son but also by his appearance; Lord Allington was unshaven, rumpled, his boots were muddy and he looked like he had not rested in days.
"Mother, I need to speak with you and Father. It is an extremely urgent and private matter," Allington whispered, looking at the servants around them.
Lady Matlock instantly remembered the purpose with which her son had first gone away and began to fear that something had gone wrong. She could never have guessed just how wrong. "Certainly," Lady Matlock said, indicating that he follow her. "Your father has just gone to his study... Do you want to have something to eat first?"
"No..." Lord Allington paused and allowed a rueful smile at how he must look to his mother. "I am sorry about the condition I'm in... I've been on the road since late Friday afternoon and have stopped only to eat since then. I did not allow myself a change of clothes. I shall explain the reason for my hasty return soon enough and then I promise to go make myself human and presentable."
Lady Matlock nodded and turned to one of the nearby servants. "Ask Lord Matlock to come to my sitting room immediately... Come, we shall wait for your father in there, Tom."
Lady Matlock led the way to her sitting room, both very quiet. She was trying to imagine what would have brought her son back to them so soon and the only logical explanation was that Cathy Benson had refused him, but he did not appear heartbroken - he was more nervous than anything else. Lord Allington tried to keep his palms from sweating as he thought of what he had to say to his parents. He knew the news would not be met with cheer, but he had to convince them that there was a way around this daunting problem of the identity of Cathy's parents.
"Hugh, I am sorry to disturb you." Lady Matlock spoke as soon as the door to the room opened a little while after she and Tom had first entered. "Tom has just arrived home unexpectedly and he wishes to speak with us."
"Oh!" Lord Matlock exclaimed, turning away from shutting the door and was greeted with the rather surprising state of his son. He was certain that he noticed a trace of panic in Tom's eyes. Recovering himself quickly, he shook hands with his son, saying, "What brings you here, Tom?"
Lord Allington ran a hand over his stubbled chin and through his hair, struggling for the words. He had thought of little else but this interview with his parents over the last few days and Tom was still none the wiser as to how he should broach the subject.
"It is about Cathy and something that I only found out when I asked her mother's consent to our engagement..." Tom blew out a long breath and sat down in the nearest chair, his stomach churning violently.
"Tom, just tell us," urged Lord Matlock, sitting down beside his wife. He was surprised by the lack of composure in his eldest son. Tom was always so self-possessed in whatever situation.
"It was a shock to me and I don't even want to think what your reactions will be... I don't know how to say this but there is something more to Cathy's history than I ever suspected. She has done nothing wrong and was utterly unaware of the crime until her mother confessed it to me..."
"My dear, what 'crime'? One would think Cathy's mother was a murderess! Pray, don't use such drastic phrases..." Lady Matlock spoke, trying to ease the tension that seemed to radiate from her son.
Lord Allington jumped out of his chair and stood at the window, unable to face his parents when he spoke. "I use such drastic phrases because those are the only ones that fit. Cathy's mother and father are guilty of kidnapping." Tom could have sworn he felt the air in the room grow strained as his parents heard this. "Cathy Benson is a false name and was created by her mother to avoid discovery. She is really Catherine Bennet, daughter of the Bennets."
The silence that cloaked the room was suffocating but Tom valiantly fought the urge to look at his parents and remained at the window staring down at his feet. As a minute crawled slowly by, he at last turned from the window to look at Lord and Lady Matlock.
Lord Matlock's elbows rested on his knees and his head against one hand. He was staring unseeingly at the floor in front of him, the only sign of life about him was the movement of his shoulders as he breathed. Lady Matlock was deathly pale, her shaking hands covering her face and she was breathing unsteadily as she tried to take in all that her son had just told them. It was too much.
Utter stillness reigned over the room for several minutes more and, though he wanted all to be soon resolved, Tom did not dare rush his parents to overcome their shock at the truth of the identity of the lady he loved and wanted to marry.
In the end it was Lady Matlock who broke the silence. She had not gained any control over her voice so she stuttered and squeaked as she spoke. "All I ever wanted was for things to be simple! Oh Thomas, how could you? How could you fall in love with one of their terrible daughters?"
"Cathy is not terrible," Tom said gently. "She is not in the least bit to blame for what her parents did..."
"I don't care, Tom!" Lady Matlock sprang out of her chair, raging at her son. "She could be the sweetest person on this earth and that would not change who her parents are! Good Lord, Thomas, your father and I spent twenty long years wondering what in the world happened to our girls. We were unable to raise them as we would have liked. I didn't see them through all the good and bad moments of growing up. I can't take the credit for the lovely young ladies that they have turned into... The privilege of that goes to that horrible woman! I can't believe you! Just as everything is going so well, you fall in love with a daughter of the two people who made us sick with worry for twenty years! Please, Thomas... Do not expect me to be leaping for joy!"
"I didn't ask to fall in love with Catherine Bennet but it happened! Oh Mother, I am sorry, but even knowing her true identity has not stopped me loving her..." Tom said, resolving to be frank even in view of his mother's anger.
"Helen," whispered Lord Matlock. He stood up and wrapped his arms around Lady Matlock, containing her hands that were flapping about to emphasize her point. "Don't tell Tom what he already knows..."
Lady Matlock leaned against her husband, glad to have the support and comfort of him so near. Her voice was strangled with unexpected tears. "I didn't think it too much to ask for us, Hugh... I didn't!"
"I know Helen," soothed the Earl, sending his son an understanding look. "I know. However, my love, there must be something that can be done to solve this happily for all concerned."
"How can you even think of such a thing, Hugh?" cried Lady Matlock, stifling her tears and turning her head towards Lord Allington. "Tom, by marrying Cathy you become the son-in-law to the very woman who took your sisters from us. It may be nothing to you, but it is something to me... In your marrying her, your sisters would be related to Mrs. Bennet - what do you think that would do to them? No, I will not accept it, I am sorry. I will not consent to your marriage... How can you even ask your father and I to consider it?"
"Helen..." Lord Matlock spoke uneasily, seeing the pained expression on his son's face. He knew his son did not want to distress them; Tom wanted to remain loyal to both his parents and to Cathy - it was not easily done. "Is there not some way we can work around this barrier? Perhaps we are being too hasty..."
"Too hasty?!" Lady Matlock exploded, breaking out of her husband's arms and turning on him. "Don't you even dare to suggest I welcome that girl into my family, Hugh Fitzwilliam. I will not hear of it."
"I will dare to suggest it!" Lord Matlock exclaimed. "We vowed to put the past twenty years behind us and allowing Cathy's parentage to prevent our son from finding happiness defeats what we had hoped to achieve." He placed a comforting hand on Lady Matlock's shoulder but she shrugged him away. "Janet and Elisabeth are returned to us, safe and sound, Helen. As you say, everything has been going well, so don't give the Bennets the power to make us suffer again - they have caused enough sadness in this family."
"I will do as I please," seethed Lady Matlock, striding to the door. Holding it open and looking past her husband and son, she spoke firmly. "Would the both of you have the kindness to leave me alone?"
Lord Matlock sighed as he observed the stubborn set of the Countess' shoulders. He gently pushed Tom ahead of him saying, "Go on, Thomas. We shall leave your mother in peace." They walked out and the slamming of the door behind them punctuated Lady Matlock's vehemence.
The Countess swung around from the door, stamping her foot furiously and expelling a great sigh of frustration. She obstinately tried to remain angry but her indignation gave way to grief as she collapsed onto the nearest chair, her tears escaping once more. Lady Matlock pressed her hand to her mouth, trying to hold the tears in. She took short gasps of air that escaped as sobs whenever she needed to breathe. Her solitary cry and release of pent up emotions was suddenly interrupted as the door opened.
"Mama..." Lady Elisabeth stopped short upon seeing her mother huddled in the chair, her shoulders shaking in an effort to exercise one last bit of control over the wrenching sobs that wanted to escape.
"Oh Mama..." Elisabeth quickly went to Lady Matlock, kneeling before her and taking hold of her mother's hand she asked with ever increasing concern. "What is the matter?"
Lady Matlock opened her mouth to try and speak but only a small sob emerged and she shook her head, indicating that she could not explain in her present state. She saw the concern evident on her daughter's face and her last bit of control slipped away. Her face crumpled and the tears now knew no bounds.
Elisabeth remained at a loss as to what she could do before she wrapped her arms around the shaking Lady Matlock, making gentle soothing noises, attempting to comfort her as her mother had comforted her only the day before. How long mother and daughter remained like that neither was certain, but when the Countess dried the remaining tears off her face there was an uncertain quiet between the two of them until Lady Matlock at last said,
"Thank you, Beth." She patted Elisabeth's hand. "I'm alright now. I merely needed a good cry."
"Can you not tell me what caused you such distress?" asked Elisabeth anxiously. She was not at all prepared to believe that her mother was feeling the least bit recovered. The floods of tears that she had witnessed hinted at a very real and perplexing problem and Elisabeth was more than a little concerned at the cause.
"I fear it would upset you..." Lady Matlock whispered.
"I don't care if it does," said Elisabeth determinedly but gently, "I shall overcome it and you may perhaps underestimate my strength."
"Did you know that Tom arrived home this morning?" asked Lady Matlock, trying to delay the inevitable.
"No, I had not been told... Has something happened with Cathy Benson? She has not refused him?"
"No, nothing like that. It would have been easier in a sense if that is what had gone wrong."
"I can't see how it would have been easier! Tom would be heart-broken if Cathy refused him. We have not even seen them together and it is plain how much he loves her."
"I know and that, I suppose, is in part the reason for my tears..." Lady Matlock left her chair and stood with her back to Elisabeth. "I know that I cannot, for my son's happiness, refuse my consent but at the same time it is in my power to upset you and Janet. The marriage of your brother to that girl could result in so many harmful consequences to this family if the situation is not handled correctly."
"Mama, I thought you had already consented to his marriage. Of what 'situation' do you speak?"
Lady Matlock sighed and turned to face Elisabeth. "Sit down, Beth..." Elisabeth occupied the chair her mother had vacated and looked up at Lady Matlock. "My dear," she said, taking Elisabeth's hands in her own. "Cathy Benson doesn't really exist. It is fictitious name. Her mother judged it best that their identities be concealed so they changed their last name to Benson. Cathy is already known to you. Beth, you knew her as your sister, Kitty Bennet."
Elisabeth blinked in shock at this revelation and fell quite silent. Her mother took this to mean she was saddened by the news and immediately tried to soothe Elisabeth, saying how she wished that it was not so and that there was something that could be done for the best of all concerned.
"No! No, Mama..." Elisabeth at last said, shaking her head. "I am not scared by this news. I am happy for my brother but I do see how it makes you feel. I see that you fear what it will do to us if Kitty... Cathy... marries into the family - It will only hurt us if we let it but it shouldn't. She is in no way her mother nor her father. She is separate from them and you shall have to accept and love her as such, Mama. My silence was merely brought about by my amazement that, of all the young ladies Tom could have fallen in love with, he found Kitty. As I remember her I would never have thought Tom would tolerate her presence for she was very silly, but I did think that was merely Lydia's influence over her - I think Tom must have seen the true person under all her feigned stupidity."
Lady Matlock nodded at the wisdom in her daughter's sentiments. "I guess I shall just have to discover Janet's feelings on the matter and the sooner I have done that, the sooner I shall be able to apologise to Tom and your father - I am afraid that I was rather harsh on them both."
"Mama, I think my own response was rather Janet-like so I should think she will enthusiastically welcome Kitty into the family... I think, like me, the only concern she will feel is how it affects you and Papa."
"Indeed, my dear. Your father was certainly more willing than myself, but I am comforted by what you have said. I shall accept her in this family." Lady Matlock smiled gratefully at her daughter and left the room.
Lady Elisabeth remained behind in her mother's sitting room for a few minutes, thinking how Kitty's, or Cathy's, admittance into the family might change things, but she was resolved to do all she could to welcome her. If it was uncomfortable for the Fitzwilliams, it would be ten times worse for Cathy, marrying into the Fitzwilliam family and being fully aware of what her parents had done to them.
Lady Janet was greatly surprised by the news, not only that her brother was marrying but by his choice of bride. As was to be expected with Janet, she was glad and even excited at the prospect of Kitty joining their family. Lady Matlock, much relieved that her daughters were not unnerved by this news, sought out the location of her husband and eldest son. She found Lord Matlock and Thomas in the study. They were discussing Cathy and the entire situation, hoping that there might be some way to bring Lady Matlock to accept her. They were glad to see the calm restored to her countenance when she entered the room.
"Tom, is Cathy prepared to have nothing more to do with her mother? To act as if Mrs. Bennet were dead?
Lord Allington was surprised by this seeming acceptance in his mother. He had not thought she would come to terms with it so soon. "Yes! Mama, Cathy is scandalized by her parents' wrongdoing. She doesn't want to be tainted in your eyes by being their daughter." Tom tentatively reached for his mother's hand. "Can you try to look upon Cathy as individual in regard to her parents? She was not even born when Janet and Elisabeth were taken. It is not she who was responsible for her parents' horrible crime."
"Indeed. I have apprised your sisters of this new development and I am happy to report that they want you to marry Cathy. I think they looking forward to seeing her again." Lady Matlock exchanged glances with her husband. "It has not been said in so many words but I do think Janet and Elisabeth still do look upon the Bennet girls as their sisters. I am sorry for the words I said to both of you. They were said in anger and I hope you have not taken them to heart. Tom, I do give you my heartfelt consent to marry Cathy, or Kitty, or whatever her name is... We shall have to sort that out!" She smiled teasingly at her son and he broke into a greatly relieved grin. "Now, get out of here and bring her home!"
Lord Allington left Matlock House that very afternoon. He did not want to waste any more time. In the end it had been decided that, for the sake of propriety, Catherine Bennet could not travel alone with her fiancé. Elisabeth suggested that Mary accompany Catherine - Lydia Bennet and Mrs. Bennet were much better left to themselves while it was certain that Mary would be highly disapproving and ashamed of her mother, wanting nothing more to do with her.
Lord and Lady Matlock had given their consent, not wanting to create a huge rift between themselves and their son, but they were still not entirely thrilled with the prospect of Tom's bride entering their home. Certainly it was of some comfort to see Janet and Elisabeth willing to have Catherine marry into the family. The couple privately confessed to some great uneasiness upon welcoming not one, but two Bennets into their lives. It would not be comfortable for any who were involved. There would be much to get used to - it was similar to a situation of warring nations agreeing to keep the peace.
Chapter 48 ~ Purposeful Planning
Lord Allington left late that afternoon to return to Kent. He was unable to leave his family with any indication of when he would at last be able to bring Cathy home for he was certain that her mother would have taken measures to hide themselves away. He prayed that Cathy had left a note with his steward, as she had promised, if she had been forced to leave Redmond Hall.
On the sixth, the day after the whole uproar involving Allington's choice of bride, Colonel Fitzwilliam arrived home. He was bursting with good news. Lord and Lady Bramely had most willingly consented to his and Edith's engagement and an announcement would appear in the papers the following morning. Secondly, the estate in Cheshire had not been a disappointment. The Colonel had been so pleased with it, and certain that Edith would approve, that he had bought the estate. Colonel Fitzwilliam was able to tell his fiancée that they would soon be Colonel and Lady Edith Fitzwilliam of Oakland, in Cheshire.
The seventh of the month dawned with Lady Janet and Lady Elisabeth receiving letters from Mrs. Gardiner. She heartily congratulated Janet on her engagement to Mr. Bingley. As she was aware of much of the history between Janet and that young man she was pleased to see it come to such a happy conclusion. Mrs. Gardiner told the sisters that she and Mr. Gardiner would be travelling through Derbyshire the following week and asked if it would be at all possible for them to meet with each other. After a quick consultation, Janet and Elisabeth went in search of their mother.
"Mama," Janet said as she and Elisabeth entered the music room where Lady Matlock was enjoying the company of her niece. "Lizzy and I have just had letters from Mrs. Gardiner..."
"Oh, what did Mrs. Gardiner say?"
"Well, she at first congratulated me on my engagement to Charles," Janet explained.
"Notice how she could not resist the chance to introduce dear Charles into the conversation?" Elisabeth whispered to Georgiana. They smiled at each other but truly found nothing wrong with Janet's constant mentioning of Charles Bingley - it happened so often that they had all grown quite used to it.
"It seems that Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner will be travelling into Derbyshire this coming week and they were hoping to meet with us all again."
"Mrs. Gardiner made sure to say that they do not wish to impose on us," Elisabeth added.
"Oh, they shall be no imposition. I should like to see them again and I am sure you girls do as well - invite them to stay with us for as long as they like. Also, the Gardiners being here might make things much easier for Cathy and Mary when they arrive."
"Oh, that is a good idea, Mama," Janet agreed readily.
"And, pray, when you write, tell the Gardiners they are more than welcome to bring their children. I have rarely met any so well behaved. They are a pleasure to be around."
"I shall do that," Janet answered and would have left the room immediately had not her mother spoken.
"What if we were to have a picnic in honour of their visit? Let it not be just a family affair, either, but with a few other people from the area?" The three girls nodded their heads in eager agreement to the plan and Lady Matlock took this as sufficient encouragement to continue. "Do the Gardiners have any idea when they shall be near here?"
"Mrs. Gardiner said they thought to be passing through the village early on the fifteenth," Lady Elisabeth supplied.
"Well, let us tentatively set the day on the fifteenth then, in the afternoon so they should be well rested from their journey. How does that sound?" Again they agreed. " Who should we invite?"
"I am sure we would all find the Whittings a welcome addition," suggested Janet.
"Oh yes, and the Dougarys," Elisabeth said, not wanting to forget her good friend. It was of no consequence that Hannah Dougary was the wife of their steward.
"Good... Georgiana, have you any suggestions?" asked Lady Matlock. Elisabeth noticed a small smile on her mother's face and that was cause for some small suspicions as to Lady Matlock's motives. Elisabeth soon understood fully, however, when her cousin said,
"I am sure William would not be able to refuse to attend and by then he will surely have had enough time to complete whatever important business is keeping him at Pemberley."
"Yes," smiled Lady Matlock. "I could not agree more, my dear."
July 10, 1813
Allington Park, Kent
Lord Allington had only just arrived at the estate a few moments earlier. He did not ride to the house but instead proceeded to the home of his steward. A letter from "Miss C. Bennet" had been left for him and Tom was glad that he had thought to come directly to Allington Park instead of wasting time at Redmond - he was already troubled by the amount of time it had taken him to reach Kent. Rain had fallen just shortly out of Derbyshire and had made progress on the roads very slow.
Dear Tom, Redmond HallJuly 6, 1813
It is as you suspected and I do not have long to write this letter or to deliver it into the hands of your steward. My mother wants to quit the place immediately. She told us so this very morning and we leave a little after noon. She has established herself, my sisters and I as companions to some family of Mrs. Redmond. You will find me in Bedfordshire, at Grant Park - home of Sir Nathan Grant.
Yours ever,
Cathy
It was something of an annoyance to come all the way to Kent and discover that Mrs. Bennet had, indeed, fled the area. Lord Allington was mildly appeased by the knowledge that he would soon have Cathy and her sister away from their mother. Also encouraging to note was that he might arrive back at Matlock sooner than expected as they would not have to endure the horrible state of the roads that existed between London and this area of Kent. Less rain had fallen in the north, so Allington opted to save time by riding to Grant Park and then hiring a carriage to take them on to Derbyshire.
He spared barely a moment longer at Allington Park and was soon racing back across Kent, all the while he rode planning how best to carry out the escape of Cathy and Mary Bennet. Lord Allington judged it best that when he reached Bedfordshire he would make enquiries as to the village nearest Grant Park. He would engage a carriage there and ensure it was at his disposal at a moment's notice.
Unfortunately, he could do nothing so obviously proper as arriving at the door of Grant Park, announcing that he had come to escort Cathy and Mary Bennet elsewhere. He would have to be more conniving than that and Allington thought that the best bet would be to have a letter delivered by a servant to Cathy, however clandestine that would appear.
Chapter 49 ~ The Picnic
July 15, 1813
The rest of the family had approved of the plan to host a small picnic on the fifteenth of the month and the days leading up to the event passed with preparations on everyone's part to ensure the day would not be marred by any disturbances. The Whittings and the Dougarys responded swiftly and with much gratitude to the invitations - they were not blind to the honour of being invited by such a family as the Fitzwilliams. The Gardiners likewise replied favourably, and were especially gratified by their children's inclusion in the invitation.
Darcy, however, was the only one who caused some trouble as the question of his attendance hung in the air for a number of days. The short note he sent on the thirteenth indicated his acceptance but Darcy stated that he would be returning to Pemberley that very night. It was painful for him to think of Elisabeth while he was at Pemberley but he dared not think of the torture it would be to spend a day in Elisabeth's company, knowing all the while that she loved Hamerton - for the sake of his sanity he would have to leave that night.
In the early hours of the morning the Gardiner carriage was seen coming up the drive and, at that time, only Lord Matlock and his youngest daughter were awake to welcome them. Elisabeth was pleased to meet with the Gardiners again. She spent a few minutes catching up with them and entertaining the children before they were ushered up the stairs by the housekeeper and shown to their rooms where they might freshen up and rest until breakfast.
The morning hours flew by quickly for them all. The Gardiners became reacquainted with the Fitzwilliam family and exchanged some news with Janet and Elisabeth. It came as a great shock to Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner when they were told of the recent developments regarding their niece, Catherine, and Lord Allington. However, they admired the Fitzwilliams' belief that they would be of comfort to Mary and Cathy when they arrived and therefore they agreed to stay on at Matlock for a week or so, hoping to hear some news from Lord Allington in the meantime.
Lady Elisabeth, though enjoying the new additions to their party, with each passing minute was growing more and more fearful that the person whose company she most desired had suffered a change of mind about attending. Elisabeth's unease increased with the arrival of the Whittings and Dougarys for it had been presumed that Darcy was to be at Matlock House before them. By the time the party was stepping from the house to walk the short distance to their chosen picnic area, Elisabeth's spirits were decidedly low, although she tried to maintain an appearance of liveliness. She had put a great deal of thought into how she would act, and even more thought and feeling into what she would say to her cousin, but it was all to come to nothing if he failed to join them. Elisabeth was investigating the ground as they walked and she narrowly escaped walking into Hannah Whitting when she heard Bingley exclaim that Darcy had finally arrived.
Elisabeth looked up to see the familiar figure of her cousin riding towards them. She had known him long enough, both as an acquaintance and then a cousin, to be able to distinguish his mood by the manner in which he carried himself. The stiff, proud set of his shoulders, coolly masked expression and grim set of his lips told her that Cousin Darcy was not looking forward to this day but, in light of the obligation to family, had seen not one way in which he might escape.
The sight of him was oft known to make Elisabeth fidgety but there was no word to describe the level of nervousness she felt upon seeing him as he was then. Certainly she was filled with a sense of relief that her plans for that day might be accomplished but at the same time the knots of anxiety that wound around inside of her tightened still further. As hard as she tried to appear indifferent to his next action, it was nearly impossible to maintain her calm expression as she watched Darcy hand over his horse to the stable boy and then join the group, warmly greeting everyone but herself. Elisabeth stumbled on when he at last encouraged them to proceed and not let him delay them anymore.
It was only after the group was focused on walking to the grove at the other side of the park that Darcy allowed himself the smallest of glances in the direction of Lady Elisabeth. Her head was down, her face shaded by her bonnet, making the expression quite unreadable and he unfortunately mistook the slumping of her shoulders as a sign of wariness, not of sadness.
One oversight on the part of Lady Matlock when she was organising this small party was the location of their picnic. She had quite forgotten that Elisabeth had come upon Darcy at the lake and it was there that Lord Hamerton had gone in search of Elisabeth. Darcy shifted uneasily when they arrived in the clearing as he momentarily relived a time when everything between himself and Elisabeth had been encouraging; when he had even entertained the thought that she might love him and not as just another member of her family. He dared not look at his cousin but, if he had, Darcy would have seen Elisabeth blushing as she glanced at the rock and the clump of bushes in which he had concealed himself. He would have seen the fleeting unhappiness and regret that filled her eyes.
Small groups formed around the water's edge as they waited until the food was set out. The gentlemen set about fishing and discussing the merits of the sport while the ladies broke into separate groups; Lady Matlock, Lady Janet, Georgiana, Mrs. Whitting and Mrs. Gardiner exchanged opinions on the Derbyshire countryside. Lady Edith, Lady Elisabeth and Mrs. Dougary chatted amiably as they watched over and occasionally joined in with the children in their play.
Elisabeth was comforted by the children. She was a great favourite with them all and they proved a very welcome distraction as they all clamoured for her attention. Darcy was never far from her thoughts but she could not possibly remain unsmiling with the children around her. She did not notice how Darcy was affected by the sight. He watched Elisabeth as she sat with a Gardiner child on either side of her and with Anna Dougary carrying on an excited dialogue about her new kitten. He could not help but feel a pang or remorse that he would never get to enjoy the sight of Elisabeth interacting with "their" children.
Darcy was so absorbed in his observation of Elisabeth that he remained unaware that he was under his uncle's scrutiny. Lord Fitzwilliam wondered how he had ever missed the depth of feeling in his nephew. He remembered the day Janet and Elisabeth had returned to the Townhouse; Darcy had been staring longingly at Elisabeth then, but he had thought it a passing attraction and afterwards saw no evidence of any other feeling between them. Now he watched in amazement as he saw emotions of jealously, regret and pain, all rooted in Darcy's love for Elisabeth, cross his nephew's face. If it had not gone so much against his principles he would have pulled Darcy aside and told him how all really stood. However, Lord Matlock was determined to let the couple work out the problem themselves even if he disliked seeing Darcy and his daughter so unhappy.
It was to the utter amazement of both Darcy and Elisabeth that they managed to live through the next hour but somehow they managed to eat their meals and carry on conversations as if nothing was really the matter. Although the others noticed a slight inattentiveness in the cousins, only the Earl and Countess of Matlock and Lady Janet correctly guessed that Darcy and Elisabeth were more aware of the other's conversation than their own.
The opportunity of some moments of peace soon presented themselves to Lady Elisabeth when, talking with Mrs. Gardiner and her eldest daughter, Julia she discovered that she was in possession of a book that Julia had been wanting to read for sometime. Elisabeth quickly volunteered to return to the house to get it and would not hear anything of their protestations that it could wait until later; she would go now and something in Elisabeth's face put a stop to Mrs. Gardiner's objections.
Darcy had heard the whole of Elisabeth's conversation and he let his eyes follow her as she retreated through the trees. A small smile crossed his face when he saw her take off her bonnet - it was so like his cousin to dislike that sort of confinement. What Darcy did not see was that she quickly wiped tears from her eyes.
"Go after her, Darcy!" Bingley urged from the station he had assumed at Darcy's elbow.
The words that were suddenly spoken by his friend were so close to his own desire that a startled Darcy turned to stare in amazement at Bingley - he had not thought he was so obvious and that Bingley noticed his preoccupation quite left him without speech.
"Lady Elisabeth will never think of you if all you can stir yourself to do is stare at her. How is she to learn of your regard?" Bingley said in a quiet undertone to his friend, restraining the laughter that wanted to break free when he saw the look on Darcy's face. He knew that laughing at Darcy at this moment would not be most prudent course of action.
"I did not think my feelings were so visible..." Darcy did not even wish to pretend he did not understand what Bingley had said.
"No, indeed they are not. I would never have guessed if it were not for something Janet said earlier. She seemed of the opinion that a match was certain between you and her sister... I did not see what Janet meant by that, I confess. However, now that I have seen you staring after Lady Elisabeth I must admit that I was wrong."
"No, you were quite right. My cousin will never think of me that way. I believe she holds such feelings for another person..."
"Janet does not think so ... Come, Darcy! Surely, Janet has more insight into her sister's feelings ... She would not reveal anything that was said in confidence but I have the impression and have seen for myself that Lady Elisabeth has been quite out of spirits since you went away," said Bingley encouragingly.
Darcy shook his head. "I very much doubt that. If anything, it is most likely she is suffering from the sadness of Lord Hamerton's absence..."
"Lord Hamerton? Indeed, no ... The day you left Lord Matlock refused to grant Hamerton permission to call here again. Janet said she has never seen her sister more relieved. She was very grateful to her father for sorting out the business. She hinted that her sister was dispirited because you had gone away to Pemberley..."
Darcy instantly felt a great weight lifting from him. There was still hope that Elisabeth felt something for him! Janet and Bingley were the most trustworthy people he knew. They would not lie about something as important as this. He looked once more through the trees and Bingley whispered, "I say again ... Go after her! How are you ever going to know if you don't risk it?"
"You are right, Bingley... Excuse me, it seems I have something to do..." Darcy smiled a genuine smile at his friend and slipped away entirely unnoticed.
Lady Elisabeth had thankfully managed to regain her composure before she reached the house. She knew it would not do for her to appear in floods of tears before all the servants. Indeed, she was certain that some of them were already speculating on some things they might have overheard.
Elisabeth quickly located the book for which she had come to find in the Library. She took a short-cut down the hall and through the drawing room, using the terrace door. She pulled the door closed behind her and stopped abruptly on the first step.
"Lord Hamerton!" exclaimed Elisabeth at the sight of Hamerton sitting in a chair at the table, impatiently bouncing his heel up and down on the ground and staring at the trees overhead. The arrival of Lord Hamerton, at this point in time, was the last thing she needed.
Chapter 50 ~ Setting the Record Straight
"Oh, Lady Elisabeth!" Hamerton rushed up the stairs to her. "I hoped I would see you today... I knew your family was to host a picnic - I assumed your father would not be around to drive me off the property."
"I ... I am surprised to see you here, my lord. It was my understanding that Papa made everything quite clear," she spoke, trying not to sound too cold. Elisabeth knew that she could not be that cruel to Lord Hamerton, especially as his true feelings were so clear.
"Lord Matlock left no room for doubt as to what he meant but we cannot let your father separate us, my love." Hamerton kissed her hand and drew it into his. "I am going to have to prove to him that I am worthy of you, and I know this clandestine meeting is not the way to do any such thing, but I had to see you one more time..."
"Lord Hamerton," Elisabeth broke in before he could go any further. She had to do now what she had not had the gumption or opportunity to do at their last meeting. "I fear you are under a great misapprehension. I could not tell you this before, because of my cousin's presence, and I did not wish for you to be disconcerted in front of him ... I do not love you, Lord Hamerton, and I am certain that I never will."
Hamerton took a step away from Lady Elisabeth, his jaw tightening and his shoulders squaring. He did not say anything for a moment. "I see ... You will forgive me if I still hope. My behaviour towards yourself at our last meeting and all the times before that can have done nothing to recommend my suit."
"Lord Hamerton, though your behaviour was improper, it is not the reason for my refusal. I know that you would never make me happy and I would never make you happy. If I were ever to marry you it would not be long before you returned to your old ways. I would be made miserable and utterly regretful of marrying you. Please, your hope that I may ever feel anything for you is a waste of time. You are not the sort of person I could ever love or respect to a degree that would make a marriage work."
Hamerton shook his head, saying resolutely, "I will marry you one day, Elisabeth! Nothing is going to deter me..."
The two of them did not see Darcy step back into the trees at the edge of the terrace, a pained expression on his face as he heard Hamerton speak. So it was as he suspected; Elisabeth really did love Lord Hamerton and they were determined to marry. Darcy deliberated over what he had best do; the last thing he wanted was to appear to be meddling in Elisabeth's affairs once more but her parents should know. As he struggled to order his thoughts and gain command over his emotions, his cousin's response was heard. Darcy had never felt more relief in his life - he went from a feeling of agony to one of hope in the space of a few seconds.
"Sir, do not address me so intimately. I am 'Lady Elisabeth' to you, not 'Elisabeth'. I never gave you leave to use my Christian name and, in light of what I have just said, it is most improper," Elisabeth said sternly. She was still conscious of the fact that she did not wish to hurt Lord Hamerton, yet Elisabeth knew that she had to tell him firmly and make him believe that what he wanted could never be.
"Proper? I care little for proper! I shall have you for my wife."
"I get the impression that is your normal behaviour; ignoring proper decorum and damn the consequences. Lord Hamerton, you say you will marry me but I say that you will not. I do not desire the kind of marriage I would be certain to have with you - I want a marriage between equals who have such a love and respect for one another that it will not fade as the years pass."
"Oh, but the final decision is not up to you," said he, trying to grasp at the last fragment of his optimism.
"Indeed, that rests with my parents and I assure you that they would not give their consent to the match - they would defer to my wishes. My parents know the particulars of your treatment of myself, as I think you well know after your interview with my father."
"You would have agreed to let me court you when we last met. I saw it in your eyes. You wished for my attentions but your cousin's ill-timed arrival prevented you from encouraging me - with words, that is. Your kiss spoke volumes."
Lady Elisabeth blushed but spoke steadily. "Do not refer to that incident. It was a very great mistake on my part and you can have no idea how much I have regretted it for all the trouble that action has caused between myself and my cousin."
Hamerton laughed bitterly, mocking her words, "'Myself and my cousin!' Just what was it that your 'dear Cousin Darcy' said about me that so changed your mind, Lady Elisabeth? No doubt he spoke of my colourful past with great eloquence - Did he lay before you all my faults and follies that for the hope of being privileged with your love I have changed?"
"Darcy told me nothing that I had not already heard from yourself, Edith and other reliable sources, not to mention what I have seen with my own eyes. As to your claim that you have reformed your character so that you might have the privilege of earning my love and devotion, I do not believe you."
"And I do not believe that you could change your opinion of me so very quickly ... Your beloved cousin must be a very valuable person in your life for you to trust him so implicitly."
"Indeed he is. I value Darcy's opinions more highly than anyone else's! He is respected by me for he is honourable and speaks only the truth to me - I am sincerely sorry that you dislike him so greatly. You would do well to follow his example of integrity... Lord Hamerton, my opinion of you did not change. It was merely blinded by the momentary goodness I saw in you and the feeling of triumph I felt to think that I was the one to enact such a change in a character as bad as yours."
"I notice you make no mention of love." Hamerton immediately fixed on all Lady Elisabeth said regarding her cousin. He gritted his teeth, breathing heavily, trying to maintain a grip on his anger. "By God, you love him, don't you? You love Darcy as much as he loves you? Have the two of you been enjoying a great laugh at my expense?" Lord Hamerton waited for Elisabeth to answer but she kept her gaze fixed on the rocks beneath their feet. He drew an unsteady breath. "Not going to answer? I dare say that your silence speaks clearer than any words ever could..."
Lord Hamerton turned from her, angrily stomping across to the path that led away from the terrace. He stopped when he saw Darcy step from his hiding place as if he had just walked up and not been standing there during the entire course of the disagreement. Darcy ignored Hamerton's presence, his glance sweeping over Lord Hamerton as if he did not exist and settling on Elisabeth.
"Is everything all right, Cousin Elisabeth? I heard raised voices." Darcy settled his eyes on Elisabeth's face. She tried to look at him when she answered but found herself unable to do so as she wondered how much he had overheard.
"Lord Hamerton was just leaving, cousin," Lady Elisabeth whispered and, at last looking up, her eyes met Darcy's. For a second they were the only people in the world.
Hamerton watched with growing anger the tender look that passed between Darcy and Elisabeth. It was bad enough to know that Elisabeth did not love him, but to face the man who held her heart so soon after being refused was too much. He took the opportunity of Darcy's distraction and, without further thought, his fist hit his rival squarely in the face. Lord Hamerton watched in satisfaction as Darcy stumbled backwards from the force of the blow before he fled the terrace.
Chapter 51 ~ A Step in the Right Direction
"Cousin," Elisabeth exclaimed, rushing to Darcy's side. He had stumbled to the ground under the force exerted behind Lord Hamerton's vicious blow. "Are you badly hurt?" she demanded in a deeply worried tone.
Darcy sat up unsteadily. "I am well. Where did that scoundrel go?" He cast an enraged glare in the general direction of Hamerton's exit.
"Lord Hamerton ran off just after you fell," Lady Elisabeth said, gently running a hand down the side of his face that had been injured. As far as she could tell there was not any great damage done, but it was certain that he would feel the affects of the blow for a few days to come.
Darcy had been toying with the idea of following Hamerton and extracting some well-needed revenge but, at the touch of Elisabeth's hand on his face, all thoughts of retribution were driven from his mind and all he could think of was his dear cousin.
"Come, Cousin..." said Elisabeth, helping Darcy to his feet and leading him to a chair and easing him into it. Assuring him that she would promptly return, she left his side and Darcy could hear her through the open terrace doors telling a servant to fetch a cloth and very cold water. He shook his head slightly to see if he had regained his bearings. The blurred edges of all the objects around him said he was not yet recovered from Lord Hamerton's highly unexpected assault. Closing his eyes, he leaned his head against the back of the chair, trying to bring about a feeling of normality.
Darcy became aware of Elisabeth's return when a cool cloth was placed on the side of his face that had borne the worst of the impact. She said with a slight teasing tone, "I trust you have not died, Cousin."
"I am alive," he answered, wincing slightly as she reapplied the cloth. If he had not been given some indication of Elisabeth's feelings for himself after eavesdropping on her argument with Lord Hamerton, the tone of her voice would have told him that he was in her good books again.
"I am most glad to hear that, Cousin, for if you had died I would never have been presented with the opportunity to apologise for my wretched behaviour the other day."
"Cousin Elisabeth, you have nothing for which to apologise. It is I who must apologise. I stupidly doubted your sense and ability to judge character in thinking you had fallen in love with him." Darcy at last opened his eyes and was glad to see that most around him, particularly Elisabeth, was coming into focus again.
"I do not want to hear you apologise!" she exclaimed, ringing out the cloth vigorously. "I behaved very badly and with no decorum. I cannot blame you for thinking what you did. I do wish that I had had the chance to tell you the truth, but I am not irreproachable on that subject - I let my temper get the better of me... I really wanted to thank you, Cousin..." Elisabeth said shyly, glad of the opportunity to cool the cloth once more.
"For what?" Darcy murmured incredulously, trying to think of just one thing of which Elisabeth would have cause to thank him. "For what have you to thank me? Insulting you all that time ago in Hunsford? Questioning your ability to properly judge character, not once but twice?"
"Well, when you put it like..." Lady Elisabeth said contemplatively.
"Oh, you think you are such a wit!" Darcy exclaimed.
"I don't think that, I know that I am!" She dropped the cloth into the water and took the seat beside Darcy. "However, in spite of all that, I have many reasons to thank you. I have enjoyed your friendship and company over these last weeks and do not know what I would do without them. What else? Well, I have to thank you for your kindness to Janet and I when we were reunited with Mama and Papa; for teasing me when I told that ridiculous fairy-tale, and especially for comforting me when Janet and I received that letter from Mrs. Bennet. Perhaps, above all, for caring enough about me to protect me from Lord Hamerton."
"Oh, you did not require my protection, Cousin Elisabeth. I think you saw through him from the first moment of your acquaintance, although I confess that when I saw you on this terrace with him those days ago I did not think so." Darcy reached for her hand and raised it to his lips to place a loving kiss upon it. "I should have had more faith in my beloved Elisabeth."
Elisabeth had been watching his hand holding her own but at this quietly whispered sentiment she immediately looked up into his eyes and saw an emotion that she was hopeful was that of a strong love. Her cheeks flushed before she asked with embarrassed and downcast eyes, "How much of my conversation with Lord Hamerton did you overhear?"
"Truthfully? Nearly all of it. Those trees hid me where I stood, wanting to understand the nature of your relationship with him, even if it was not what I wanted to hear. However, I was most struck by the last part of your conversation. It was something he said about you being as in love with me as I am with you." Darcy paused, running a hand through his already tousled hair. "My feelings for you are unchanged since April - I still wish to marry you, but if Lord Hamerton was wrong in supposing your affection... One word from you will silence me on this subject forever."
Just think how much you would have wished to strangle me had I left it at that for a whole week!
Chapter 52 ~ Happy Conclusion
"Lady Matlock?" James Gardiner asked, flopping down on the grass after an exhausting run through the trees with his brother to see who could be the first to tell their hostess what they saw.
"Yes, James..." the Countess answered, turning her attention to the young boy and his somewhat affronted younger brother.
"I think someone has just arrived here... We saw a carriage on the road through the trees," James said, being kind enough to at least give his brother some credit in that part of the telling.
"Really?" Lady Matlock exchanged puzzled looks with her husband. "We are not expecting anyone... James, be a dear and help me up?" She gave her hands to him and he eagerly pulled Lady Matlock up as she said to her guests, "I shan't be a moment... James, young Edward, lead me to this carriage!"
The two willingly trotted ahead of her to a place where the trees thinned and the road was visible. "Down there!" Edward pointed eagerly at a carriage that was approaching Matlock House.
"I don't know who that could..." Lady Matlock squinted in the bright sunshine and suddenly realised that she recognised the gentleman riding the horse in front of the carriage. "Good Lord!" she breathed, "Edward, I want you to run back that way," Lady Matlock pointed in the direction of the lake, "tell your mother, father and Lord Matlock that Lord Allington has returned home and has brought his guests with him."
After watching to see that Edward knew where he was going, Lady Matlock took James's hand, saying, "Well, it looks like we shall have to go meet my eldest son. He had two young ladies with him that I think you might recognise."
Lady Elisabeth did not attempt to contain the joyous smile that spread across her face at hearing Darcy speak such words as she had longed to hear for some time. "I am convinced that you must be blind not to have noticed how much I have come to love you and not just as a dear cousin - although I do love you like that as well - I love you more than I ever would have imagined possible just a few months ago. Oh... I am so sorry for my words spoken in April." She laughed at her rambling and regained enough of her composure to answer, "Yes, I will marry you... As long as you realise what you are getting yourself into?"
"Oh, I think I know and that is the reason why I am so eager to have you for my wife..." He blinked in a momentary daze as the full import of her words sunk in; Elisabeth had just consented to marry him. She did love him after all. "As for Hunsford, I deserved everything that you said of me. While the feelings I related were genuine, I know it did not sound so." He cupped her face in his hands, saying with a wicked gleam in his eyes, "I hope you too enter into this marriage with your eyes open. You know I have not reformed my ways since Hunsford. I am still a proud and arrogant man and the only reason I can look on this match with any tolerance is your dowry."
"I know, but I shall learn to live with my very great disappointment, I am sure." Elisabeth smiled up at him, her eyes shining with unshed tears of happiness. It was judged, however, that it was now her turn to tease. She took his hand and made to lead him from the terrace, "Now, do you not think it is time that you ask my parents for my hand?"
"No," Darcy said, resisting her attempts to pull him from his present station.
"No?" Elisabeth gasped, a mocking pout formed on her lips. "I trust you are not having second thoughts, for it does no good to lead a young lady of good breeding along like this when at the first test of your sincerity - you bail out."
"Oh! I would never do that. I merely wondered how I am to ask their consent."
"I see," smiled Elisabeth, laughing with him. "Well, I admit that I am no expert but I think something along the lines of: 'Earl and Countess of Matlock, or Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam - whichever you prefer to use - I have fallen most excruciatingly, hopelessly and devotedly in love with your bewitching daughter, Lady Elisabeth Fitzwilliam. I hope and pray that you will relieve my most torturous suffering and allow us to be married.' There, will that do?" Elisabeth asked, sending a teasing smile to Darcy and then wincing along with him when he tried to smile, only to find the action hurt him. "Oh dear! William, you can't even smile!"
"Well, I won't run the risk of being unrecognizable then, for you know I hardly ever smile..." Darcy teased, moving to stand closer to her.
"Only when you are being disagreeable do you not allow yourself to smile, but I see that when you are in a room with family you allow yourself to smile very often. In fact, I have sometimes seen you challenge my soon-to-be brother-in-law for genuine warmth in your smiles." Lady Elisabeth laughed at herself. She knew very well that she was rambling and giddy but she thought her present happiness provided an ample excuse.
Darcy, as much as he loved to hear his cousin laugh, was more intent on kissing her than anything else at the present moment. He effectively silenced her, saying as their lips met for the first time, "I think you know that I cannot help smiling when I am with you."
Cathy and Mary looked at their new surroundings in complete awe. The imposing front of Matlock House particularly drew their attention as Lord Allington handed them from the carriage. They had expected a grand estate. Given Thomas's title it would have been impossible to think of an estate the size of Longbourn, but Matlock House quite exceeded any expectations they had formed in their minds as to what the great house would look like.
Still engaged in taking in the imposing visage of the house and feeling very humbled by the grandeur that enveloped them, Cathy missed seeing the group of people appearing on the other side of the lawn as the carriage rolled away. Thus she did not see her own Aunt and Uncle Gardiner in that group but Allington did and he was pleased that they had come. It would make things so much easier for all concerned. It was not until Allington gently touched her arm that her attention was drawn to the people in front of her. The noble house suddenly seemed a veritable cocoon of welcome upon seeing Tom's family; that is, until she saw the encouraging smile delivered to her by her Aunt Gardiner. It was very reassuring to have the Gardiners close at hand.
"Cathy..." Tom said, drawing her forward. "Allow me to introduce you to my father, the Earl of Matlock..." Cathy curtsied nervously, feeling the palms of her hands grow damp, knowing that all eyes were on her and especially conscious of the woman to Lord Matlock's right whom she assumed to be Lady Matlock.
"So, you are the young one who has turned that confirmed old bachelor into a man headed for the altar? It is, indeed a pleasure, Miss Cathy." Lord Matlock clasped one of her hands in his as he spoke and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Cathy relaxed at such a kind welcome and took an instant liking towards her future father-in-law.
Tom indicated the woman standing stiffly next to Cathy's new found friend. "My mother, the Countess of Matlock." Cathy's fears returned full force when she looked into the eyes of the woman before her and all those around them held a breath to see what would happen after they finished with their scrutiny of one another.
Lady Matlock saw in the young girl's eyes what power she could have over her but she had promised her husband, Tom, Janet and Elisabeth; she would like Cathy. "I'm glad we finally meet, my dear." Lady Matlock stepped toward the girl, placing a gentle kiss on her cheek. "Any young lady who can put such a smile on Tom's face is a great treasure and well worth knowing." The Countess smiled genuinely when she discovered how easy it was to be nice to Cathy - one look into the face that so clearly hoped for approval and a look at Tom's smiling countenance, Lady Matlock knew she could never dislike the young lady before her.
Lord Allington let out a quick sigh of relief as the air cleared around them and he promptly introduced Mary to his parents and then went on to introduce both Cathy and Mary to Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Edith, Georgiana and reminded them of their acquaintance with Mr. Bingley. He paused while the sisters were embraced by their aunt and uncle and little cousins before finally coming to Janet. He pulled his sister towards the small group, speaking teasingly to lighten the mood and bring that subject out into the open as soon as possible.
"And at last, may I be allowed to properly introduce you to my sister, Lady Janet Fitzwilliam." He paused to smile cheekily at Mary and Cathy. "I believe you ladies are already acquainted, though?"
The assembled crowd laughed at Tom's humour as Janet said, "Indeed, your faces are most familiar to me." Cathy and Mary enthusiastically threw their arms around Janet and in a tumble of words that were discernable only to them they said how wonderful it was to see one another again and apologised for the reason that has separated them in the first place.
Cathy, at last at a loss for words to exchange with Janet, turned to Lady Matlock, determined to cement some kind of relationship with her future mother-in-law and asked, "Where is Lizzy? I desperately want to see her again."
Lady Matlock frowned. "That is an awfully good question, Cathy. She returned to the house to fetch something for your cousin some time ago... I don't know where she's gotten to."
"Darcy has disappeared, too." Bingley put in with a small grin directed at Janet.
"Oh..." Lady Matlock said, smiling knowingly as she caught the look passing between Bingley and Janet. "Perhaps we should take a little stroll and find them out..." The Countess linked arms with Cathy. "Would you and Mary like to help us in our search or would you prefer to rest after your journey?"
"I want to see Lizzy again," Cathy answered, very pleased by the attention she was receiving from Lady Matlock. Tom had warned her not to expect any great effusions of welcome from his mother but she was flattered that the Countess would take any pains to get to know her.
"Well, in that case, let us walk this way. It will give us the chance to acquaint you and Mary with your new home. I am afraid we cannot take too long, though. You have arrived on the day that we are hosting a picnic and we have left our guests unattended."
"Mother," asked Lord Allington, suddenly remembering an instance that had puzzled him as they were arriving. "Did I see Lord Hamerton leaving the estate as we arrived? I thought I saw him riding back in the direction of Danbury."
Lady Matlock looked over at Edith who shrugged her shoulders. "I would not put it past Phillip to try and see her, especially if he found out you were hosting a picnic, Lady Matlock."
"Well, in that case, it is possible that you did see him, Thomas, although we all hope you did not." Upon seeing her son's extremely confused expression at the riddles they were speaking, she said, "We will tell you of it later... Now... Mary, Cathy... We have a lovely terrace on this side of the house and when the weather permits we sometimes take our breakfast out here..."
As their eyes settled on the terrace they were greeted with the sight of Lady Elisabeth and Darcy locked in a passionate embrace. A number of eyebrows fluttered upwards and jaws slackened as they registered what was before them.
"I guess that solves one mystery," Bingley whispered to Janet.
Lord Matlock scratched his neck and sighed. He had not expected things between his nephew and his daughter to be resolved so quickly. Clearing his throat loudly, he asked sternly, "Do either of you want to tell me what is going on?"
Elisabeth quickly pushed herself away from Darcy, putting a hand up to her lips and blushing a deep shade of red. She slowly raised her eyes to her father's face but her attention was then drawn to Mary and Cathy. She was tempted to welcome them but her father raised a hand to indicate that she stop where she was.
"Now, young man, do have something particular that you wish to... I don't know... ask me?" Lord Matlock could barely contain his laughter at the fidgeting of his nephew.
Darcy uneasily twisted the signet ring on his finger before an idea came to him and, casting a small glance in Elisabeth's direction, he cleared his throat and began. "Earl and Countess Matlock, or Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam - whichever you prefer to use - I have fallen most excruciatingly, hopelessly and..." Darcy paused and turned to Elisabeth asking, "What was it?"
Laughing at Darcy's cruel use of her words, she managed to reply, "Devotedly."
"Ahh yes... Devotedly in love with your bewitching daughter, Lady Elisabeth Fitzwilliam. I hope and pray that you will relieve my most torturous suffering and allow us to be married."
In the flurry of congratulations that swiftly followed when Lord Matlock laughingly and joyfully gave his consent, and the reunion of Lady Elisabeth with Cathy and Mary - in which Cathy said Elisabeth had much to explain, of course referring to her engagement to Darcy - there was little time for observation. However, when the family at last made a move to return to the lake and their abandoned guests, Lady Matlock noticed the reddening on her nephew's face and said to her daughter,
"I sincerely hope that is not your work, my dear."
"Oh no!" said Elisabeth, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she and Darcy exchanged a look of silent agreement not to spoil the enjoyment by bringing Lord Hamerton into it. "Although," Elisabeth added linking arms with her betrothed as the group left the terrace, "I dare not vouch that it will not be me at some point in the future."
© 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 Copyright held by the author.