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Jump to new as of November 14, 2004

Chapter 14

Posted Wednesday, 3 November 2004

Little Constance Gardiner had insisted on traveling with her aunt Elizabeth, though everyone knew it was really her soon to be uncle Darcy that she wished to be near. He had become her favorite person in the world, and she lost no opportunity to be in his company. Now having exhausted herself with the constant chatter that commanded his attention, she finally fell asleep cuddled up against his chest, her little fingers clutching a button on his vest.

Elizabeth blushed at the memory of her own explorations with that same garment and could not resist saying, “You are very good to be so patient and affectionate with her, Sir, and she seems very comfortable with you supporting her that way. Pray tell me, have you had much practice providing such a service?”

His eyes widened in astonishment at her implication, especially as Mrs. Gardiner was seated on one side of her and Georgiana was on the other! He had always suspected that had she been keeping this little secret since their journey on the Post, but if she had not wanted to speak of it earlier, why would she pick such a public venue to tease him about it now? His eyes locked on hers. “Be careful, little minx! You are playing a dangerous game!” his eyes warned as he said, “I try to be of service to pretty young ladies whenever I can, Miss Bennet. All a lady need do is ask.”

Elizabeth grinned and looked out the window to avoid his flashing eyes.

“Indeed, Mr. Darcy, there is no need for you to be so confined and uncomfortable. Give her to me. A mother becomes accustomed to traveling with a child on her lap,” said Mrs. Gardiner.

“I am very comfortable, I assure you, Mrs. Gardiner, and truly enjoying being the recipient of her sweet affection. Just be sure to nudge me if I nod off to sleep along with her,” he replied, looking pointedly at Elizabeth.

Her now more heightened color was most revealing, and Darcy knew he had finally found her out. What fun he was going to have teasing her about it in the days to come! Hopefully he would be able to engineer a walk for them with Bingley and Jane this afternoon – all in the name of promoting his friend’s romance, of course!

“I must say that we have been very fortunate with the weather today,” continued Mrs. Gardiner. “I believe it is mild enough for the children to play outdoors for some time.”

“Indeed, Aunt, it is not yet noon and already the sun is wonderfully warm! We couldn’t have chosen a nicer day.”

In the carriage just behind them, Jane and Mr. Bingley, and Edward Gardiner and his two older children chatted amiably and watched the countryside roll by. When young John became restless, Bingley entertained him with riddles and limericks – the appropriate ones, of course – thus amusing everyone and making the short journey pass even more quickly.

They finally rounded a bend in the road that led up a narrow lane, and then saw the spectacular gate so beautifully depicted in Bingley’s shop before them. It was even more impressive in reality, despite the fact that it had been scaled down to compliment the proportions of the cottage. It was, at the same time ornate and yet stunningly simple – and when it was closed, the two sections formed the letter “B” in the center with trailing vines.

“Truly magnificent!” said Mr. Gardiner, stepping from the coach.

“Oh, I do agree,” said Elizabeth as she gave Darcy her hand and came forward to study the intricate patterns more closely. “Isn’t it beautiful, Jane?”

“Very, very beautiful,” was her reply, and she turned to smile at Mr. Bingley, who soaked up the compliments with great joy!

“You would think that I had created this work of art myself, given the pride that I take in it, but of course none of the credit goes to me. Yet it does make me happy to see that you all approve,” he said as he opened the gate. “Now come and view it from the inside looking out. How beautifully it frames this peaceful setting!”

They stepped through and continued to admire its design and proportions, and then turned to take in the cottage itself. It was sturdily built and very picturesque, having recently been refurbished in every detail. In truth, it was just a bit smaller than Longbourn, but had a far more quaint, storybook feel to it. It also contained fewer bedrooms – four, to be precise, but each was very spacious with its own lovely view of the surrounding countryside.

“I do hope the workman remembered to bring in plenty of firewood,” said Bingley, suddenly fumbling with the keys to the front door. “I sent word early this morning to have certain things ready for our arrival. …Ah, here we are,” he said, having finally opened it. “Do come in. The servants will make us a cup of tea and then we can go exploring!”

Two servants from Bingley’s household had been brought along to make them comfortable, and they now carried in the rugs and cushions, and crates of essentials necessary to serve the fine, cold meal that cook had stayed up all night preparing. The workman had not disappointed Mr. Bingley either, for the snap and crackle of dancing flames could be heard from an adjoining room as they entered the small foyer.

“Please don’t hesitate to make yourselves as comfortable as possible – under the circumstances,” said Bingley ushering them into what was obviously to be the dining room. I’m sure that Mr. Burgess would be honored to have such an amiable group of people as his very first guests.” He smiled as Constance and John headed towards the fire and threw themselves with glee on the large cushions set before it.

“Mr. Bingley, Sir,” called one of the workmen as he entered carrying two wrought iron chairs, “The lawn furniture arrived yesterday and I thought you might want us to bring it in for the comfort of the ladies, Sir.”

“What a splendid idea, Cummings! Yes, do bring it all in – even the chaise. The children might enjoy using that, and the round table from the gazebo will do very nicely for our tea. There, you see,” he said turning to the group, “everything is working out exceptionally well. There are plenty of small crates for the gentlemen to sit on and I believe we can create a larger table out of a few sawhorses and some planks! I know Joseph has brought some table linens from home.” He smiled happily at Mrs. Gardiner, from whom he received a nod of approval.

When the makeshift furniture had all been assembled and all the outdoor furniture was brought in and cleaned, they sat down together for a cup of tea – with a splash of spirits for some and biscuits for the children. They talked about the size and cozy feel of the room, the advantageous placement of the windows and the proximity of the cottage to London and other surrounding towns. They then all set off for their much-anticipated walk about the grounds.

The younger children skipped ahead, while the adults admired the layout of the gardens – which could be appreciated despite the season and the lack of foliage on the trees. The placement of the beds, the vine covered bower with its large wooden swing and the newly installed gazebo made it all very inviting. It was evident that the occupants of the cottage could find many hours of contentment in this lovely and secluded spot. Elizabeth sat down on the swing and lifted Constance onto her lap, smiling playfully at Darcy in request of a push, while Jane, Bingley and Mr. Gardiner followed John towards the pond.

“Can we go fishing now?” begged John as he doubled back to take his father’s hand. “You promised Papa!”

“Indeed I did, John, and Mr. Bingley has been so kind as to bring the tackle and bait. But I think we shall save the fishing until after we have eaten, my boy. Why don’t you run along and see if you can spot any frogs or turtles along the edge of the pond?”

“Are there really frogs and turtles in the pond, Mr. Bingley?” asked John, wide eyed.

“I have not noticed any myself, as I have not had the time to look, but I am sure that they make the pond their home. I couldn’t think of a nicer place to live if I were a frog? Could you Miss Bennet? – um, if you were a frog, that is.”

Jane smiled and tried to hide her laughter. “No, I could not. The pond is nice and murky, the lily pads inviting and there don’t seen to be any dogs around to chase me. I would be very happy to live here were I a frog.”

Encouraged by his aunt’s response, John dashed off with renewed enthusiasm to the water’s edge, pulling his father after him.

“And what about Miss Bennet,” asked Mr. Bingley hesitantly as they continued their walk, “would she consider a cottage a comfortable place to live - if only as a second home? My sisters insist that no self-respecting gentleman would live in a cottage - it being too small for guests and with little room for more than a few servants.”

“Oh, I feel quite the opposite, Mr. Bingley. A cottage seems like a wonderful place to live if one enjoys a quiet life. And it is so lovely here! How very fortunate Mr. Burgess is to have to have found such a property so close to London.”

“Do you really feel that way, Miss Bennet? I am so glad to hear it! I believe a situation like this would also suit me very well. I have quite fallen in love with it, and can think of no happier place to spend weekends and holidays.”

Fearing that she had said too much or appeared too forward, she turned away until she felt the gentle pressure of his hand on hers and looked back to him. His eyes were sparkling with tender affection.

“I was so hoping that you would like it, Miss Bennet. It was important for me to know your opinion of it before …”

“Hold out your hand, Aunt Jane!” shouted John, as he tugged at her skirt with one hand and hid the other behind his back. “I have a gift for you.”

Startled, Jane turned her attention to her nephew, bending down and holding out her cupped hand. She knew full well the sort of treasure she was about to receive! But John’s wet little prisoner was not about to submit to his confinement.

“Oh!” she squealed and jumped back laughing as the frog leapt from her hand towards her lap. Happily, she had the presence of mind to pull up the hem of her gown to create a pocket, thus preventing him from getting away – not thinking, at the moment, of how she was exposing her petticoats and her legs!

Not wishing to embarrass her, Bingley turned away, and on seeing that, and realizing what she had done, she became totally befuddled! She straightened quickly, letting go of her gown and allowing the frog to escape into the tall grass. In an instant, all three of them were chasing the frightened little creature until he finally made his getaway into the pond!

“Oh we’ve lost him!” cried John, following the frog’s progress from lily pad to lily pad and then finally into the water.

“We’ll catch another,” said Mr. Gardiner, scanning the area for other signs of life. He took John’s hand and led him to a yet unexplored area, thick with felled logs and reeds.

But Jane’s embarrassment was such that she could think of nothing except how ridiculous she must have looked holding up the hem of her frock, and she made her excuses and hurried towards the house. Bingley ran after her.

“Miss Bennet, please do not be distressed! How very lucky John is to have an aunt who would even consider holding his cold, wet frog! I would have gotten a beating had I attempted to give my mother such a gift when I was a boy! I’m surprised you do it so readily, considering you had no brother to teach you the joys of such things.”

These words finally made Jane stop and laugh at herself. “No, Mr. Bingley, I had no brother, but I had Lizzy … and catching little creatures was her idea of a good time when we were little, much to my … mother’s dismay.” And in an instant her moment of lightheartedness vanished and she seemed even more distraught than before.

Bingley struggled desperately to think of something that would distract her.

“Miss Bennet, if you wish to go inside, would you do me the honor of keeping me company while I inspect the installation of the balcony upstairs? I must make a show of doing some sort of work before the day is out.”

Jane hesitated, looking decidedly uncomfortable.

“Of course, we can ask Mr. Darcy and your sister to join us as well. May I call them?” And before she had the time to reply, he bounded towards the garden to fetch his friend. When they returned, Jane felt obliged to put on a smile for the blissfully happy couple.

“The balcony has been added to the largest bedroom, and it was necessary for us to open the wall between the windows and put in the French doors,” said Bingley, leading them up the stairs. “I think it will make the room appear even larger, and add much light.”

“Here we are! Now what do you say to that!” he beamed.

Even empty, the room was truly charming. The fabric on the walls added color and warmth, while the freshly sanded, broad planked floor begged for some carpets to be scattered round. But the eye was naturally drawn to the magnificent French doors that led onto the wrought iron balcony, executed in the same design as the great gate.

“So, this is to be Mr. B’s bedroom then,” said Darcy with a perfectly blank expression. “It is indeed a very beautiful room. But why would he want a balcony off his bedroom, Bingley? Seems rather wasteful.”

“On the contrary!” countered Bingley, defending the choice with great conviction. “He believes that he and his wife would enjoy having breakfast or reading here, or even gazing at the stars before they retire. I think it a wonderful idea, Darcy. You seem to have no romance in your soul!” Grinning broadly, he gave Elizabeth a wink.

“And you say there are three other bedrooms, much the same size on this floor?” asked Darcy, leading Elizabeth into the hallway to search them out.

“Yes,” replied Bingley, “and there is an attic room upstairs as well.”

He watched them go, and taking Jane’s hand, led her onto the balcony, where they stood gazing at the beautiful view of the pond and rolling hills beyond it. It was some minutes before he had the courage to speak.

“Miss Bennet, … Jane! Your sister and Mr. Darcy have been so kind as to allow us a few private moments, and I cannot let this opportunity pass without speaking to you! I’ve been much encouraged by the sweet smiles you’ve bestowed on me in recent days and I hope that I have not misjudged your feelings. Dare I hope that you have seen it in your heart to give me another chance?” She blushed and looked away shyly, giving him the encouragement to continue.

“Perhaps I should not be so impatient to ask this – but I find that I am nothing, if not impatient. Would you … could you even consider accepting me after all I have put you through? I love you so dearly, … but have not the proper words to express the depths of my devotion. I know I have done nothing to deserve your trust, but I promise to be the most loving and devoted husband in the world to you. You need not fear that I shall ever waver … for, in truth, despite my abandonment, I have remained constant to you in my heart all this time. I have thought of no other woman since you have come into my life, and whether you accept me or not, I know I shall love none but you.”

She had, of course, been hanging on his every word, but now, with this exceptional declaration, she found herself moving closer to him and bringing her hand up to his face to caress it – so moved was she by his words. Gazing tenderly into his eyes she answered him with the most poignant look, the most tender expression of adoration, and seeing it, he swept her into his arms. Mesmerized by the precious lips he so longed to kiss, he murmured, “I shall leave for Longbourn in the morning.”

“Oh no! You mustn’t!” she cried suddenly and wriggled herself free from his embrace to pace about in terrible agitation. Bingley was panic stricken!

“Jane, my angel, what are you saying? How are we to wed if I do not seek your father’s permission? Did I misunderstand; do you not wish to marry me?”

“Of course, I wish to marry you, Charles! Of course I do! But . . . but the thought of going back to Longbourn . . .” She broke down and wept, allowing him to hold her against him.

“Do you not see?” she said when he had finally managed to quiet her somewhat, “If you go to my father, Mama will insist on at least a month to prepare for our wedding, and I shall be left to deal with her for all that time without the benefit of my sister’s support at home or yours from Netherfield. How shall I bear it? My younger sisters will be of no help to me, and my father . . . my father will find great amusement in it all! Charles, please, we must elope! It is the only way for us!”

“Elope? You wish to elope?” he said incredulously. “Jane, surely you cannot be serious. I know your gentle disposition, my love, and starting off our marriage this way would make you very unhappy.

“I can’t believe you would object, Charles! How can you deny me this? Do you not wish for us to marry soon? Surely you were not contemplating a long engagement!” She was so distraught that he had a difficult time calming her enough to listen to him.

“Dearest, sweetest Jane! What I would give to take you as my wife this very day and have you wake beside me in the morning!” he said, placing his hands upon her cheeks and leaning in to rest his brow against hers. “And now that you have accepted me, I shall let nothing and no one come between us! But it is my concern for your happiness that makes me hesitate. An elopement would forever change your relationship with your family. Even when all is forgiven, it shall not be forgotten and will remain, especially for you, a source of shame and discomfort.” He gently wiped her tears with his thumbs and kissed her wet cheeks. “I know you too well, my angel. This is not the way you have pictured your wedding day, nor is it the way in which you wish to remember it. In any case, I am sure that once your father has given his consent your mother will come to accept us. And surely, Darcy and Elizabeth will have some influence over her.”

“It pains me to tell you this, Charles, but Lizzy’s engagement to Darcy has given Mama an even greater sense of her own importance. She now feels herself entitled to expect only the highest ranking and wealthiest suitors to come and call on her daughters. Oh, Charles, she has hurt me deeply with some of the cruel things she has said, and as much as I love and respect her as a parent, I cannot . . . I will not go home to bear the brunt of her ridiculous tirades alone. Lizzy will be married and gone, and you will be here at the shop . . .”

“Then I shall postpone the official opening of the shop until after we are wed and spend the month at the Inn at Meryton. Or if necessary, I shall give up the idea of the shop altogether! I shall not allow it to stand in the way of your happiness.”

“Oh Charles, no! You must not even think such a thing! I will not have my mother’s opinions dictate the way we live our lives, and I would not have you give up a venture that obviously gives you such pleasure. No, elopement is the only way for us.” She paused and looked sadly at the floor before saying, “I will not deny that I would wish to have my family about me when we marry, and that it pains me greatly to think of hurting my father by doing so without his approval. But the alternative is unthinkable to me.”

Bingley took her hands in his and brought them up to his lips. He kissed them again and again, then stared solemnly at them as he pondered the dilemma before them. When he finally spoke, his words were very carefully chosen.

“Jane, I make you this promise. You shall not spend an hour alone at Longbourn after your sister has left it, but you must give me until that time to find some other solution to all this. If there is no other way, we can leave during the wedding breakfast and travel to Scotland. I shall have everything arranged, and if I know Darcy and your sister, they will be willing to follow us and stand up with us. But let me at least try to find an alternative to this elopement. It is for your own happiness that I beg you to be patient.”

She did not look convinced, but nodded her agreement, tearfully embracing him and allowing him to finally claim her lips. Dozens of gentle kisses lengthened into a deeply passionate one, as they clung to one another in their first moments of happiness.

“Whatever shall we say to everyone downstairs, Charles? They must not learn of our engagement or we shall have to swear my aunt and uncle to secrecy – and that will never do!”

“We shall simply say nothing about it. I shall explain that you were distressed about the frog incident and that you will be down as soon as you feel composed. Darcy and Elizabeth shall wonder at that, but they will say nothing to contradict it. Shall I send up the maid with a basin and some water?”

“Oh yes, please do, Charles – and thank you. Thank you for not giving up on our love! Can you forgive me for having tortured you so mercilessly these past few weeks? You must know that I have never stopped loving you, despite my bitter reproaches.”

“Your reproaches were well deserved and it is only I who needs to beg your forgiveness, Jane. But I shall not risk our both becoming emotional again. Dry your eyes now and come down as soon as you can. Everyone must be whispering and speculating about us by now.”

Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet also took the opportunity to enjoy a few private moments in the bedroom down the hall, and it was indeed fortunate that there was not a stick of furniture in that chamber for they had a difficult enough time leaving it, even without the benefit of those conveniences. Slipping quietly by Jane and Bingley, they hurried down to instruct the servants to put the meal on the table and to uncork the wine. Surely they would soon have much to celebrate!

So it was with great anticipation that the little party sat down to await the happy couple and their joyful news. How stunned they were to see Charles Bingley descend the stairs on his own, with an awkward and rather discomforted look on his face.

“Miss Bennet will be down shortly,” he said, looking directly at Mrs. Gardiner. “We had a bit of a mishap with a frog, as you may already know, and she asked for a few extra minutes to freshen up.” He stared down at his empty plate, trying to avoid the six pairs of questioning eyes that bore into him.

After an interminably long silence, Elizabeth asked him, “Shall I go up to her, do you think? Is she in some need of assistance?”

“No, no, Miss Bennet, do not be concerned. She is very well; I assure you – just a bit embarrassed. I’m sure she will be down . . .”

At that very moment Jane appeared at the top of the stairs, and fixing a smile upon her face, came down to join them. “I apologize for making you wait for me. My hands and frock were soiled from our nature walk and I wanted to wash up.”

“Please do sit here, Miss Bennet,” said Bingley, rising from his seat and pulling out the chair next to him. “And there is no need to apologize. We were just taking our ease and enjoying each other’s company.”

Elizabeth looked anxiously at her sister and Jane smiled sweetly back, giving her the assurance that all would be revealed at a later time. It was clear that everyone at the table was wondering what had happened, but Jane was not about to give anything away.

“Allow me to recommend that you take a few sips of this very fine wine, Miss Bennet,” said Darcy, holding out her glass for her. “It has the remarkable quality of rendering all unpleasant feelings non existent. Trust me, drink.”

She laughed, and being touched by his concern for her, took the glass from his hand. But as she was about to put it to her lips, Bingley stood and gently clinked his glass with his spoon.

“Before we begin our meal, I would like to share some very happy news with you all. I believe some of you may have suspected it all along, but it may still come as a surprise to some . . .”

“Charles!” cried Jane, looking at him in dismay. “ You promised! Do you not think it better to wait?”

“Indeed I did, Miss Bennet, but as everyone seems to approve of it, I am bursting to end the charade. There is no Mr. Burgess, of course. I purchased this property so that I would have a place to come on the weekends or when I simply wish to get away from the noise and congestion of London. Your mother was right, Miss Bennet, I dearly love the country, and could not be happy with only the house in town. And although it is small, and my sisters declare it unfit for guests, I hereby offer a standing invitation to all of you to come and visit whenever you wish to get away. Cheers!” he said, taking a large swallow of wine and beaming at his beloved.

“Oh Charles! …that is, Mr. Bingley. How wonderful! How very happy I am for you!” said Jane, coloring at the thought of having used his Christian name twice in less than a minute! “I know you shall be very happy with this cottage and I congratulate you for having found it. But am I the only one not to have guessed? I feel rather foolish now.”

“I had no idea either,” said Georgiana eyeing her brother with a raised brow. “And of course, Fitzwilliam said nothing about it. Did he tell you, Elizabeth? He must have told you!”

“No, he kept it secret from me as well until just about a half hour ago. I noticed that Mr. Bingley was very familiar with every room and aspect of the house, and became suspicious. So I used my well-known arts and allurements to persuade him to confide in me,” she said with a cheeky grin.

“I believe the only person who truly figured it out on her own was you, Mrs. Gardiner,” said Darcy. “In fact I know precisely the moment when the realization came to you, for I watched your countenance change with the understanding. I salute you, Madame.”

“And you kept it secret from me, Madeline – your own husband? For shame!” said Mr. Gardiner, chuckling and giving his wife’s hand a squeeze. “But now that we are all privileged to know the happy truth, I would like to propose a toast if I may.” He rose and everyone stood with him, glasses held high.

“May this house be a constant source of happiness to you, Mr. Bingley, and may you come to share it with people you love! Cheers!”

“Cheers!” everyone shouted, and in great merriment sat back down to enjoy their meal. Bingley went about the table shaking everyone’s hand and thanking him or her personally for the good wishes. When he came to Jane and Elizabeth he said, “Ladies, I’m afraid that I had a very selfish reason for sharing this news with you today. You see, I was hoping that despite your hectic schedule before the wedding, you might find a few hours to do me a kindness once you are home in Hertfordshire.”

“What is it that you would have us do, Mr. Bingley,” inquired Elizabeth.

“Well, as you can see, this cottage is in desperate need of furniture. I don’t want to rush into purchasing anything, for I don’t have the time to devote to it just now, and my sisters will have nothing to do with the place. Netherfield, as you know, is bursting with Caroline’s acquisitions and although most of them do not belong in a cottage, I am sure that there is bedroom furniture that can be used here and perhaps some other items as well. My own bedroom furnishings at Netherfield were most comfortable and I intend to have them sent here, but I would not know what else to salvage. Do not misunderstand,” he said, looking intently at Jane, “I am perfectly willing to refurnish this cottage with the just the right pieces, but I would like to be able to use the house in the meantime. So, if you ladies could spend a morning or an afternoon at Netherfield choosing those pieces that you deem appropriate for this house, I would be most appreciative. There may be a chair here or a desk there that you feel would fit in. I have great faith in your good judgment.”

Jane had been turning a deeper shade of pink with every word, understanding full well what Charles was thinking. It would be such an advantage to have the cottage furnished so that they could make use it soon after they were married. It then finally struck her that one way or another she would be out of her father’s house and the mistress of her own, in little more than two weeks! She trembled at the thought.

“That chair you purchased for the library was very comfortable, Bingley,” said Darcy, thinking back on the many hours he had spent in it.

“And the dressing table in the guest room that Jane occupied when she was ill was also very fine,” remarked Elizabeth.

“And I believe the table and chairs in the breakfast room would be very suitable for a cottage,” said Jane, hoping she didn’t actually look as flushed as she felt. “I’m sure Lizzy and I will find enough furniture to make you truly comfortable, Mr. Bingley. Will you be needing kitchen and tableware, as well?” she asked, trying to look as casually interested as possible.

“My sister has already taken the silver, fine china and crystal, but there is, I believe some very serviceable crockery and the like. Caroline has removed everything she thought worth taking, so you may have the servants pack up anything you feel would be useful here. I cannot tell you how I appreciate your being willing to take this on, ladies. What with the shop and my duties as best man,” he grinned, “I don’t know when I would have gotten to it. Besides, I would not have known what to choose. Bless you both; I am in your debt!”

“It is nothing, Sir,” said Jane. “I am sure Lizzy will be happy to have a few quiet hours away from Mama’s frenzied preparations.” She smiled at her sister and then at Mr. Bingley, who exulted in the sparkle of her eyes.

Chapter 15

Posted on Sunday, 14 November 2004

Elizabeth had become accustomed to receiving an express post each day, often consisting of three or four letters. There would be one or two from Fitzwilliam, as he sometimes wrote to her twice a day, a short, yet newsy one from Georgiana, and another, secretly enclosed for her sister. What she had not expected to find hidden among these pages, was a letter addressed to her father, marked personal. Scanning Fitzwilliam’s letter in search of instructions, she was instantly rewarded with the following:

The enclosed letter from Bingley to your father is for his eyes only, Elizabeth, so please make sure that no one else sees it – especially Jane! And I suggest that you suspend your own curiosity for now as well my love, for so much depends on this being kept secret. Once Charles has your father’s assurances, I promise that you shall have a significant role in our little conspiracy.”

She smiled to herself, so gratified to learn that the gentleman had finally settled on a plan to remedy this stressful and unhappy situation. She and Jane had been home for nearly a week, and while her mother babbled on about the number fine gentleman Jane was sure to meet in London, Jane quietly planned her escape from Longbourn after her sister’s wedding. It was not with secretive glee that she packed to leave her childhood home. A great melancholy came over her as she realized that no happy preparations would ever be made to honor her. Elizabeth observed her beloved sister with sadness.

It was two days later that Mr. Bennet announced at breakfast that he would be away from home for most of the day. He had some business in the nearby town of Hollingsdale. And although his words barely registered with Mrs. Bennet, – so caught up was she in her own plans, Lydia was quick to suggest that she go along to see the sights. Mr. Bennet flatly refused her request!

“But Papa, it is so tedious here with everyone busy for the wedding, and I never get to go anywhere other than Meryton! Why won’t you let me come with you?”

“There is no place for you at the meetings that I have scheduled there, and I’ll not have you traipsing about the town on your own and getting into trouble,” said Mr. Bennet, his eyebrow raised. Lydia threw down her napkin, folded her arms and grumbled. Elizabeth kept her eyes on her plate, not wishing to draw any attention to herself or the knowing smile that had teased its way onto her lips. Surely her father was going to meet Mr. Bingley!

The gentlemen had arranged to meet at a fine eating establishment in Hollingsdale, a town somewhat larger and more affluent than Meryton. It had been chosen for its relative proximity to Longbourn, and as Mr. Bennet was not well known there, they could sit and talk with some assurance of anonymity.

After a few moments of uncertainty, Mr. Bingley was able to relax with his future father-in-law and make his case for a swift and painless wedding for all concerned. Without even a hint of a possible elopement, he outlined his rather unique plan, explaining Jane’s trepidation at having to endure her mother’s disapproval before the nuptials. Mr. Bennet heartily approved, for it would save him considerable aggravation and expense, and most importantly, make his sweet and deserving daughter happy. He had always thought Mr. Bingley a perfect match for his dear Jane and believed that they would get on very well together. He now easily read between the lines of what Bingley was saying and considered himself lucky to be gaining such an astute and considerate son-in-law.

“So it is agreed then,” said Bingley, lifting his glass as if to toast their understanding, “only you and Elizabeth will be privy to our plan here in Hertfordshire, and the Gardiners, along Mr. Darcy and his sister will make all the arrangements from London.”

“I congratulate you on such a marvelous scheme, Mr. Bingley. As long as Mrs. Bennet knows nothing of your engagement, both Jane and I will be safe from her thoughtless monologues, and the tensions in the household will be . . . bearable. And I promise to come up with a plan of my own to minimize her reaction to the news so that the two of you may be spared any embarrassment. But are you sure that it is necessary to keep Jane in the dark about her own wedding?”

“Unfortunately, I do, Sir. I think it safest to surprise her, and I do believe she will be pleased in the end.”

“Well, then the next time we meet, Mr. Bingley, we shall become family, and I will be very proud to call you son,” said Mr. Bennet, extending his hand to him.

Mr. Finklestein carried the bolt of fabric out into the street so that the ladies could see it in the proper light. He pulled out several lengths, gathering it together and letting it drape over his arm. Mrs. Gardiner then lay the swatches of lace that they had selected against the heavy satin and stood back to view them.

“Which do you prefer, Georgiana? They are both so beautiful I simply cannot decide.”

“If I were choosing for myself I would select the one on the right, but I think that Miss Bennet would prefer the other. Do you not think so Greta? You have shopped with her before and have noted her preferences.”

“Yah, I agree with you, Miss Darcy, the one on the left would suit her very well. . . but surely her aunt would know her best. The final decision should be yours, Mrs. Gardiner.”

“And yet I shall defer the final decision to Mr. Finklestein. You have met the young lady twice now, Sir. What would be your opinion? I know my niece would trust your judgment.”

“You honor me, Madam, and although I would normally shy away from such an awesome responsibility, I must say that I agree about the lace on the left being perfect for the young lady. Its simple elegance will make the most of Miss Bennet’s natural beauty.”

“Then it is decided, and you can finally set to work, Greta,” said Mrs. Gardiner laughing. “Forgive us dear, it seems that we are always making impossible demands of you.”

“Not at all, Mrs. Gardiner, and rest assured that the gown will be finished in time. I have also arranged for my sister to take care of my daughter when I come to Hertfordshire with you. If there are any adjustments to be made, I shall make them there – although I doubt it will be necessary. I have every measurement written in my book. Do you think Miss Bennet would like some satin roses to adorn her slippers?”

“Oh, yes,” cried Georgiana. “That would be so lovely! I have already purchased the wedding bonnet, which has satin roses along the brim, and putting them on her slippers as well would be exquisite! I must admit that as excited as I am about my brother’s wedding, I am equally eager to see this one come about. It is all so romantic!”

“I am not sure that my poor niece would agree with you just now, Georgiana, but hopefully she will feel that way once she knows she is to become a bride.”

As odd as it felt to be wandering about a deserted Netherfield, both Jane and Elizabeth found some much needed solace there. They were bubbly and excited at first, eager to see if the furnishings were actually as they had remembered them, and anxious to discover some new treasures. But after Fosset had greeted them and then left them to their task, they were greatly subdued by their memories.

Elizabeth lowered herself into the chair by the great fireplace in the sitting room. “And yours is to deliberately misunderstand,” she heard him say, the meaning of his penetrating gaze now so clear to her. “How could I have been so blind?” she whispered, stroking the armrests where his hands had lain. She must encourage Jane to take this chair, and the desk where he had written to Georgiana, and . . . “Stop it, Lizzy! You are being ridiculous! Jane will take what she likes!” she scolded herself.

Jane walked about on her own, feelings and visions rushing through her. She remembered the look on Caroline’s face when she had interrogated her about her relations in Cheapside, and how she had felt, sitting there shivering and humiliated to have arrived in such a state. She remembered Charles rushing up the stairs to offer his arm the first time she was able to join them after her illness. And she thought of how she had once dreamt of being mistress of this great estate and bringing such happiness and honor to her family. How grateful she now felt have a home – no two, so far away from Hertfordshire . . . and how very sad.

“Lizzy,” she called down to her sister, “come up and help me figure out which of these bedrooms belonged to Caroline and the Hursts – for I wish to take nothing from them.

“Then perhaps we should check with Fosset so that we don’t accidentally contaminate the cottage with Caroline’s belongings!” said Elizabeth, bursting into laughter.

“You may laugh, Lizzy, but I think you very wise. Let me find him and then we can begin in earnest.”

Selecting furniture for all four bedrooms was easily accomplished. Jane was happy to take the furnishings from the bedchamber she had once occupied for her own, as they were truly beautiful and held such tender memories for her. They then pulled together their favorite pieces from Netherfield’s many guestrooms to fill the two in the cottage. Although Jane’s taste differed greatly from Caroline Bingley’s, there were individual pieces that were very handsome and beautifully made. And once Elizabeth reminded her sister of Greta Brenner’s talents as an upholsterer, they went about the house seeking out the most well designed pieces, concentrating on size, form and suitability to a smaller, less formal space. They found carpets, mirrors and other accessories to make the cottage look lived in, as well as bed and table linens that had never even been used! After clearly labeling all their choices, they accepted Fosset’s kind offer of refreshments and sat down to enjoy a quiet cup of tea together in the breakfast room.

“How strange to think that I might have been mistress of this house and here we are today, helping to dismantle it! So much has happened since we first came here, Lizzy. I can scarcely believe how everything has turned out.”

“It has all turned out for the best, I believe,” said Elizabeth. “Even had Mr. Bingley never left Netherfield and married you a few months later, you would surely be looking for a new home by now. Mama would not have given you a moment’s peace had you stayed on in the neighborhood, and poor Charles would probably have suffered in silence to please you. You are much better off starting your lives without her interference.”

“Well I certainly agree with you now, though I don’t know that I would have had the courage to admit it then, had everything gone smoothly. I can tell you that having the cottage to come home to on our return from Scotland means so much to me! Neither Caroline nor Mama have their imprint on it and . . . “

Elizabeth arched her brow and started to laugh. “Forgive me Jane, but you seem to be forgetting who purchased all the furniture you selected today.”

“Yes I know, Lizzy, but I’m sure you understand what I am saying. The cottage feels like my own already, whereas the house in town will be filled not only with Caroline’s purchases, but with her spirit. After all, she has lived there for so many years. Do you think she will ever want to return to live with us there?”

“Hopefully not! May she continue to be embarrassed by Charles’s shop and remain with the Hursts forever,” said Elizabeth. “But I do think it only proper that you send her a note of thanks for helping you furnish the cottage, Jane. After all, it is the sisterly thing to do!” she laughed.

“I must say you look very well, Lizzy. Although had I been in London with you, I would have chosen a gown that was the very height of fashion – not one so simple and unadorned,” said Mrs. Bennet, holding herself firmly upright in the carriage seat so as not to wrinkle her own attire. “I am sure that Mr. Darcy expects something a bit finer; but there is nothing to be done for it now. You must remember your new status and who you now are the next time you shop, Lizzy. It is your duty to make your husband proud of you.”

“Yes, Mama,” said Elizabeth, sneaking an amused look at her sister and pressing her lips together tightly to hide an impertinent grin. “Believe me, Mama, I have known who I am for some time now, and intend to make my husband very proud and happy!”

The carriage came to a halt by the side door of the church so that the ladies could make their way to the bride’s chamber without being seen. Mr. Bennet came around to help Elizabeth out himself. He had never seen her look happier or more beautiful, and it took all his effort to keep his emotions in check. A week earlier he had suffered a few days of severe depression at the thought of losing both his daughters, until he realized that he would now have two new places of refuge at his disposal. His life at Longbourn would undoubtedly change, but there were wonderful experiences in store for all of them, and he thanked G-d for sending him two such agreeable son-in-laws! He held out his hand for Jane, then poked his head back into the carriage and said to his wife, “I wish to speak to you before we go inside, Mrs. Bennet. I will escort the girls in and come back to join you.”

“You needn’t come with us, Papa. I need Jane’s help in making a minor adjustment and then we shall wait for you.”

Mr. Bennet grinned and kissed his daughter’s brow. “Do not take too long,” he whispered. “There is a church full of people eager for us to begin, not to mention two very anxious gentlemen.” He then returned to the carriage and seated himself opposite his wife.

“This is a very special day for us my dear,” he began, taking hold of her hand and kissing it. “And you are to be congratulated for bringing up daughters that are truly worthy of the fine gentlemen that love them. You have done well, Fannie, and this is a gift by which to remember this day.” He brought a small box out of his vest pocket and handed it to her.

“Oh Mr. Bennet! How thoughtful you are! I never would have expected it! After all these years – still a romantic fool,” she said, giddy with excitement. The necklace she beheld was far more beautiful and expensive than she ever would have imagined her husband purchasing, but she gave no thought to how he could afford such a trinket.

“What fine taste you have, Mr. Bennet! I simply adore it,” she said, bending forward to kiss his cheek. “But what did you mean by “the gentlemen that love them”? You make it sound as if all five of our daughters were being married today.”

“Not all five, Mrs. Bennet, just two.”

“Two?” she screeched.

“Yes, my dear. I have given Charles Bingley my blessing, and Jane will be married alongside Elizabeth today. Now the gift you so admire comes from your very amiable and forbearing son-in-law, and I suggest that you begin to rethink your relationship with him.”

Mrs. Bennet opened her mouth to object but Mr. Bennet silenced her. “It is done Fannie! There is no going back, and your beloved Jane desperately needs your acceptance now. You have made her truly miserable these past few weeks!”

“But she can do better! So much better!”

“She has done well enough and I know he will make her happy. But it is you who now have an important decision to make, my dear. You can indulge your anger and estrange yourself from your eldest daughter . . . But let me warn you that if you do, Elizabeth will never forgive you – nor will her husband, and I doubt that you shall ever receive an invitation to Pemberley. Or, you can assure Jane and Bingley that you have had a change of heart and are pleased with their union after all. Then you shall be able to enjoy all the benefits of having two daughters so well married. I have already accepted my invitation to Pemberley for Christmas along with the girls and I would hate to leave you to spend it alone with your sister Phillips. What would the neighbors say?” He grinned and kissed her brow, then offered his hand to help her out of the carriage. “Shall I help you fasten your new necklace, Mrs. Bennet? I am sure Mr. Bingley will be pleased to see that you have accepted it.”

Mrs. Bennet walked beside her husband in silence. For once she had a great deal to think about and nothing to say. Her husband hoped this condition would last – at least through the ceremony.

“Jane, I think my stocking has twisted itself around somehow. Would you hold up my gown while I fix it?” asked Elizabeth as her sister opened the door to the small room that served as a bride’s waiting room.

“Of course, Lizzy, let me just . . . Oh! . . . I believe they mean for us to use another room, Lizzy; this one’s already taken! I had not heard that there was to be another wedding here today – had you?” she asked, feeling herself drawn to the exquisite gown that hung on a screen in the corner of the room. “How strange to wish to dress yourself in church rather than in the comfort of your own home,” she said, allowing her hand to hover over the delicate lace edging of the neckline.

“Perhaps there are some particular circumstances that make it necessary,” replied Elizabeth. “I knew there was another couple that wished to be married from this church, but I understood that there was one question yet to be settled between the bride and her family.” Elizabeth came to stand beside her sister and took both her hands in hers.

“The question is,” she said softly, “will the bride be willing to share her wedding day with her younger sister?” Elizabeth’s tears spilled over as she began to laugh and cry all at once. Jane stared at her, utterly bewildered, then gaining understanding, drew her hand up to cover her mouth and began to sob.

“It can’t be, Lizzy! Papa has not . . . “

“Yes he has! And Charles has arranged everything else, . . . even a sort of truce between himself and Mama. Papa assures me that we need not be concerned about her behavior today. Now come and let me unbutton your gown so that we can see how well Georgiana and aunt Gardiner have chosen for you. Greta Brenner is waiting outside to make any last minute adjustments. And look! Look at these slippers! Aren’t they the most beautiful shoes you have ever seen?” Elizabeth continued to babble on as she fumbled with the buttons, her excitement and blurred vision making it impossible for her to complete her task.

Happily, Mrs. Gardiner chose that moment to peek in and say, “May we help to dress the bride?”

“Oh yes! We need you desperately!” laughed Elizabeth, stepping aside so that her aunt and her sister could embrace.

“Now I know that a few tears are inevitable, Jane,” said her aunt, wiping her tears and kissing her cheeks, “but you must bring yourself under control as soon as may be, for it will not do to have the bride coming down the aisle in such a gown with red and swollen eyes.”

“Oh, Aunt Gardiner, what can I possibly say to thank you for this magnificent gift? I could not have chosen better for myself! It is unbelievably beautiful! Just the cut and style that suits me best!”

“Enough, enough! We must hurry! Our guests are becoming impatient,” said Mrs. Gardiner as she undid the last of the buttons and helped her niece out of one gown and into another. Greta Brenner then seemed to materialize out of nowhere, a threaded needle in her mouth, tugging and pulling and adjusting the gown from every direction. Georgiana suddenly appeared with her slippers, urging her to lift her foot and then another. Kitty, Lydia and Mary came rushing in, giggling and laughing and lavishing compliments on everything they saw. And then suddenly, everyone grew quiet as Greta Brenner pulled the full-length mirror forward for her to see herself as a bride.

Jane stared at her own image in wonder, and weeping, shook her head. “It can’t be true. It is too much! I do not deserve to be this happy.”

“Ah,” said Elizabeth, “now I know I have my sister back again! Well, I believe that your beloved Charles would be ready to argue that point, Miss Bennet, so let’s fetch your bonnet and not keep him waiting.

Georgiana bought out a large hatbox and removed the veiled masterpiece from it. She bubbled over with pride, for she had been given the honor and responsibility of choosing it on her own, and was very pleased with her choice.

“Oh Georgie,” exclaimed Elizabeth, “I should have let you choose mine as well. Yours is far prettier than the one I bought! I’m jealous!” she laughed, good-naturedly.

“You needn’t be,” said Georgiana, shyly. “I took it upon myself to purchase the identical one for you. I loved your bonnet when you first bought it Elizabeth, but once I saw this one I . . . . I hope you are not offended.”

“Offended? I love you for it, Georgie! You have my permission to dress me whenever you wish – and my mother will be very grateful to you as well,” she laughed. “Thank you, thank you, for all you have done.” She turned to take her aunt’s hand, “Thank you all!”

What can be said of the happiness felt by Fitzwilliam Darcy as he watched his father-in-law bring both Elizabeth and Jane down the aisle? His hopes and prayers of many months were being fulfilled at last! Elizabeth would finally and blessedly be his, and the lives that he had tampered with so callously were miraculously being salvaged by a deep and unfaltering love. The guilt that he had feared would haunt him forever now faded from his mind and he was overcome with pride. He had once said that Jane Bennet had been the making of his friend, and he knew with joyful certainty that it was Elizabeth who was truly responsible for all their happiness. What a wise and courageous woman he was about to marry! He loved her beyond reason!

Charles Bingley raised himself to stand rigidly erect and beamed at the sight of Jane floating down the aisle on her father’s arm. She was glowing despite her tears, and she looked more angelic than ever. “Lord forgive me for having such desires for one of your angels,” he thought happily, but I promise to do my very best by her while you entrust her to my care,” he silently vowed. He felt great satisfaction in knowing that he had made some critical decisions that had led to the realization of this precious day. The first was the leasing of Netherfield when everyone thought the neighborhood beneath him, the second was his persistence in securing Jane’s hand, and the third, and most evident at the moment, was his resistance to the elopement Jane had thought necessary. In this first act as her husband, he hoped he had proven himself capable of securing her happiness. Her loving gaze told him that he had.

Mrs. Bennet accepted her guests’ many thanks and compliments on the lavish wedding breakfast that was given where the happy couples had first met – the Meryton Assembly Hall. If the truth were known, she did not remember ordering so many dishes, or such a variety of cakes and sweets! And the wine being served was certainly a better vintage than she had remembered selecting – but no matter. She was not going to be offended if one or both of her son-in-laws had made some changes. She would simply have to accustom herself to a different style of life and she did not think it would be very difficult to do.

Mr. Darcy led his bride to the very table she had been hoping to avoid and bowed before Caroline Bingley. “I cannot tell you how pleased I am to see you here today, Miss Bingley. I had heard that you were feeling unwell just a few days ago and might have found it necessary to remain in London. But I’m glad to see you that you have recovered enough to attend your brother’s wedding. I know how much it means to him to have you here.”

“Thank you, Mr. Darcy, and allow me to wish you both joy,” she replied, keeping her expression as cold and indifferent as possible. Darcy grinned, paid his respects to the Hursts, and whisked Elizabeth away.

“There,” he said, “the most distasteful chore accomplished. Now, have we stayed long enough, my love? Can we not go home? There is a coach leaving in twenty minutes.”

“A coach leaving in twenty minutes?” Elizabeth’s eyes searched his face to confirm her suspicions. “James will take us whenever we wish, will he not,” she asked, starting to laugh at the game they were playing.

“Normally, yes, but today he is driving my sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam back to London. We shall be traveling to Pemberley by Post, Elizabeth, and as promised, I have purchased tickets for all six of the seats. Would you like to invite someone else to come along?” he asked, handing her the extra tickets with a devilish grin.

She took them from him, tore them in half and threw them in the air.

“But you must promise me not to fall asleep, Fitzwilliam,” she teased.

“What, and allow you take advantage of me as I slumber! Never Madam!”

“Surely you are not going to make us travel all the way to Pemberley in an uncomfortable Post coach?” she said, taking his arm and leading him towards her family to say their goodbyes.

“Well, we are scheduled to change horses at Cheshunt, as you know, Elizabeth, and if you then require a more comfortable mode of transportation, I think it could be arranged.”

EPILOGUE

The first five years of marriage brought three beautiful children into the lives of Jane and Charles Bingley. Before the birth of their second child they enlarged the cottage by adding four bedrooms and some servants’ quarters at the back. They could not imagine giving up their precious hideaway for lack of space.

Charles Bingley spent those early years making a name for himself in London. He became known as a generous and farsighted patron and was respected and admired not only by those who benefited from his financial help, but by those who recognized his service to the larger society. He became involved in one business venture after another, bringing each to some level of success and then turning it over to a deserving employee to manage. His wealth continued to increase, but the family’s simple lifestyle remained the same. The Bingleys were more than content with their small circle of family and friends, for as it was, there was never enough time just to be alone together, which is what they loved most.

It was some eight years into their marriage and a few weeks before Jane’s thirtieth birthday that an urgent express arrived from Pemberley. It read as follows:

Dearest Jane and Charles,

I urge you to drop everything and come to Pemberley immediately. When old Mr. Dawson passed away last month we all thought his son would return home to run the estate. But happily for us, he has decided to sell it and live abroad! Jane, Thornwood is the beautiful estate you have always admired on the northwest road to the lakes. It is but eight miles from Pemberley and very profitably run by an excellent steward. Fitzwilliam has already gone to make a bid on your behalf and vows not to let it fall into anyone else’s hands! Hurry!!!

Elizabeth

In the years that followed, Fitzwilliam Darcy taught his friend the art of being a successful man of property. Bingley’s business instincts quickly adapted themselves to land management and the estate flourished. Over the years the Bingley family home became as beloved as Pemberley and even Mrs. Bennet had to admit that Jane had married very well!

FINIS