Posted on: 2008-10-20

V

The morning after the assembly found the Misses Bennet paying a visit upon the Misses Lucas to rehash all the joys and sorrows of the previous evening's amusements. Lizzy was in high spirits as Charlotte made her reenact her overheard slight from Mr. Darcy, and the younger Misses Lucas laughed delightedly at her rigid posture and the exaggerated curl of her lip as she looked the imaginary assembly up and down in disgust.
Jane laughed as well, though the fact that the comic story stemmed from a slight upon her own dear sister still perturbed her greatly.

"Perhaps you misunderstood, Mr. Darcy. Perhaps he meant it only as a jest, for no gentleman would have spoken in such a manner if he knew the lady was within hearing."

"I dare say he would have spoken louder if he supposed I could not hear him, for no doubt he wished to warn me away from formulating any matrimonial designs upon his esteemed person. He need not worry on that account, for if I wanted a face like his I would marry an undertaker."

She simulated the long expression that Mr. Darcy had worn the evening before, and the youngest Lucas girl fell of the couch with the force of her giggling. Jane tried once again to exonerate everyone in the situation from blame, but Lizzy refused to have her joke spoiled by her sister's forgiving nature.

"Do not try to excuse him, Jane, for I have already painted him as the most hard hearted of villains and shall not have you redeem him now. Even if he praised my beauty for a month and begged every dance from me from now until Michaelmas, he should not be pardoned."

"Mr. Bingley seemed to admire you a great deal, Jane. You were the only lady at the assembly that he asked for a second dance." The youngest Miss Lucas leaned forward in anticipation of her reply.

"He was a most attentive partner," was the unsatisfactory answer that Jane gave.

"Has he made an appointment to see you again? Perhaps he plans to call at Longbourn with his sisters very soon? Oh, whatever shall you do!"

"I shall be most happy to meet his sisters again when the opportunity presents itself, for they were most kind to me. Mrs. Hurst even complimented me on the way I wore my hair, and offered to show me several of the new styles from London when she next saw me."

Normally any hint of the latest London fashions would be enough to deter any female interest in Meryton, but these particular females were more interested at that moment in hearing her thoughts on Mr. Bingley. The Lucas girls were determined to have the latest gossip on the couple when they next went in to town, but Jane refused to cooperate and steered them away from the subject at every turn. She had never been exceptionally forthcoming regarding her feelings, though she was always vigilant about the feelings of others, and any personal observations she made about Mr. Bingley would be for Elizabeth's ears alone, whom she knew she could trust implicitly. Their neighbors must be content with whatever observations they could make on their own, and the overblown assumptions with which they could embroider them before passing them on to anyone else.

VI

There were several occasions for the Misses Lucas and Meryton in General to make their observations, for Jane and Mr. Bingley met often in the next few weeks, though always in large mixed parties. Their behavior was always friendly, but most decorous, and the gossips began to tire of their slow pace. They rarely even sat in private conversation, for there was always one of Mr. Bingley's sisters close at hand to engage Jane in an endless discourse of how much they missed London society. Jane lent such a sympathetic ear to their commiserations that she was soon invited on an afternoon ride with the tenants of Netherfield Park. Mr. Hurst chose to remain inside the comfort of the house with a large glass of port, but Miss Bingley, Mrs. Hurst and the other two gentleman called for Jane at Longbourn at a pre-arranged time.

If the truth be known, Miss Bingley had never possessed the slightest interest in horseback ridin until the day she learned of Mr. Darcy's fondness for the sport; and now she made the supreme sacrifice of venturing out at least once a week, although her idea of an exhilarating ride involved walking her horse leisurely for a quarter of a mile, always making sure that her riding outfit never encountered any flying dirt along the way, and then returning home to expound upon the healthful benefits of fresh air and exercise. It was a great relief to her to have the company of Jane to help her make sure her outfit remained unspoiled. She rarely prevailed upon Louisa to join them, but her sister had made an exception on this morning in order to further her acquaintance with their charming young neighbor.

Jane's own approach held more passion for the activity, and she often took a morning gallop before any of her family had risen. She secretly thought her new friends' more restrained style of riding a bit tedious, but found it offered ample consolation in the opportunity for more conversation. They had spent the better part of a mile discussing the latest fashions from London, although Caroline and Louisa did most of the talking, while Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley took advantage of their manly independence and raced each other across the grassy expanse.

The women had just turned their horse's heads back in the direction from which they had come, when Mr. Bingley rode by, issuing a challenge.

"Come, Caroline. Let us see what you and Miss Bennett are made of."

He spurred his horse homeward and Jane responded without thought to her companions. She urged her own mount forward and had soon caught up to Mr. Bingley's hunter, for she had brought one of the fastest in her father's stable. He seemed surprised, but delighted at her rejoinder and there was a doubt as to who would be the victor until Mr. Bingley pulled ahead at the final stretch. Whether or not the young lady pulled back at the last moment is difficult to say, but Jane Bennett felt no shame in the defeat when she saw what joy the winning brought to Mr. Bingley. She congratulated him most fervently and his response was modest and self-deprecating.

"I must say there was some doubt in my mind that I should win, until the very last moment. You sit a horse a great deal better than many of my friends at the club and should put them all to shame. I hope you can persuade my sister Caroline in her enjoyment of the sport, for I fear her present interest is fleeting at best."

"I should be more than happy to ride with Miss Bingley whenever she chooses. I fear my own sisters have little interest in it, as well, and I often end up on my own."

The rest of the party caught up to them just then, and Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst congratulated Jane on her riding skills, although there was a touch of condescension in their remarks that belied their flattering content. Though Miss Bingley found it a necessary pursuit in order to spend time with Mr. Darcy, she did not find horseback riding at such an abandoned speed very elegant and determined to mention it to her young friend when she next got the chance. Jane rode on at Mr. Bingley's side, blissfully unaware of his sister's disapproval, and taking far more enjoyment in the exercise than Caroline considered suitable for a proper young lady. She hid her displeasure for the time being, and they parted on the most affectionate of terms with promises to meet again soon.

VII

In spite of what she considered a very promising beginning, Jane did not hear from Mr. Bingley's sisters for several days. The family sat at breakfast one morning when a letter finally arrived from Netherfield. The receipt of mail was never a private affair in their household, and Mrs. Bennet demanded to know who sent it right away.

"Well, Jane, who is it from? What is it regarding? What does he say?" Mrs. Bennet's optimistic nature had already assumed the missive was from Mr. Bingley and had imagined everything from enraptures on her daughter's dancing ability to a proposal of marriage inside the envelope.

"Well, Jane, make haste and tell us; make haste, my love." Never let it be said that she was impatient without affection.

"It is from Miss Bingley," said Jane, and then read it aloud.

"My dear Friend,--

"If you are not so compassionate as to dine today with Louisa and me, we shall be in danger of hating each other for the rest of our lives, for a whole day's tete-a-tete between two women can never end without a quarrel. Come as soon as you can on the receipt of this. My brother and the gentlemen are to dine with the officers.

"Yours, ever,
"Caroline Bingley."

Jane's pleasure in the invitation shielded her from the fact that it was less a request and more of an imperial command for her to come and amuse them. The sisters had sat around Netherfield for less than an hour before the monotony led to a rather unpleasant conversation. Charles was the good-natured buffer between them on most days, smoothing the ruffled feathers of one and kindly listening to the frustrations of the other. In his absence, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst had no one to complain to but each other. This would not have been particularly disastrous if their complaints had not been solely about each other.

The contents of the letter disappointed Mrs. Bennet for a moment, but her spirits soon rose when she saw the opportunity it presented. As the grey clouds gathered outside of the dining room window, she hit on the plan for Jane to travel on horseback. Once the rain began, she would be forced to spend the night at Netherfield and be sure of some time in Mr. Bingley's company.

Elizabeth cared little for this plan, and told her mother so. She tried to convince Jane to think twice as she changed into her riding clothes, but to no avail. Jane was an excellent horsewoman and felt a slight drizzle should not impede her outing.

Mrs. Bennet offered her own encouragements as Jane left the house.

"Don't worry, dear. I am sure it shall rain harder in a little while, and then you will not be able to return home immediately. Take care not to get any mud on your dress; and if Mr. Bingley should ask you to take a walk in the garden when he returns, be sure to accept. If the rain has stopped, that is."

When Jane set off, the rain was so light she could hardly feel it as she galloped along. Netherfield Park was a mere three miles from Longbourn and the journey should not take long, but the heavens opened, as if in direct defiance to this reasoning, and a deluge beat down upon her and her horse. She was forced to slow her speed for the sake of safety, as the road became slippery and the visibility poor. The trip took twice the time it should have, and Jane arrived feeling as wet and cold as she ever had in her life. She handed over the reins to the stable boy with relief and made her way up the front steps.

The doorman gave not one sign of complaint, but Jane felt his indignation at the mud she tracked across the threshold. Despite her mother's warning, she had not been able to avoid the flying dirt on her ride.

Jane felt all the shame of arriving at the great portals of Netherfield Park soaked to the skin. The looks of shock on the faces of her genteel friends were enough to alert even the most ignorant of callers to their social faux pas. Jane might have bothered to offer more than just a brief apology if she had not felt such a pounding in her head. The rough exercise of her ride had kept her too busy to notice beforehand, but now that the mad dash was finished, she could hardly ignore the steady thumping in her temple; but there was no time for weakness. The sisters were hurrying her into dry clothes and wrapping a warm shawl around her shoulders in a friendly manner, before they led her to the dining room. Outside the windows, the rain continued to fall and Mrs. Bennet sat at home rejoicing over her own cleverness. Surely not even the most hardhearted of hosts could send a guest home on horseback in such a downpour.

There was one flaw in Mrs. Bennet's plan that she had not accounted for, however, for earlier that morning the weather had been clear and the gentleman chose to ride to Meryton on their horses. The chaise was sitting in the stables at Netherfield Park, just waiting to be of use.
During the meal, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst both laid out the grievances that had bothered them earlier, and appealed to Jane as judge and jury. She tried to be a sympathetic listener, and nodded understandingly as Miss Bingley made her case.

"Then I told my sister that yellow made her skin look positively jaundiced, and her new dress should be done in a much gentler shade. Was I wrong in trying to protect Louisa from ridicule, dear Jane?"

She was saved the trouble of answering as Mrs. Hurst gave her side.

"You only wanted the fabric for yourself. Admit it Caroline. Had I set it back down, you would have snatched it up in an instant. Yellow is one of my most flattering colors. Do you not agree, dearest Jane?"

Jane smiled and nodded, though she had never actually seen Mrs. Hurst wear yellow. She would have agreed to most anything in that moment, since the spinning in her head made it difficult to concentrate. The voices of the sisters mixed and bled together until they were one indistinguishable mass of noise. Finally she could take no more.

"I beg your pardon," she interrupted. Jane put a hand to her forehead and felt the heat radiating from her skin. "I think my wet ride must have overset me. I would not wish to inconvenience you, but is there any conveyance that could take me home?"

When Jane admitted to feeling unwell, Mrs. Hurst drew back and agreed that they should send her home at once. She had quite a horror of sickness of any kind and kept a large array of pills and syrups on her dressing table to ward off various and sundry illnesses.

"My dear Jane, of course. We must get you out of here, at once. Stand up, dear. I shall call for someone to assist you. Allow us to help you to the door."

Jane was more than happy to oblige her as she had felt progressively worse throughout the meal. They rang for a servant and ordered the chaise be brought to the front immediately. The sisters hurried her towards the entrance with all the usual platitudes of wishing she could stay longer. She was urged to keep the dry clothes for as long as she needed and to come again soon. Jane stumbled at the haste, but continued bravely on towards the waiting carriage. The pounding in her head had long since been replaced with an almost pleasant sort of fog. It was preferable by far to the pain, but made it difficult to see as the room swayed to and fro. She just made out a figure in a long, hunting coat coming through the entrance when the haze overtook her completely. Jane felt herself falling, but could do nothing to prevent it. She vaguely registered a pair of strong arms wrapping around her and a familiar voice calling her name before she knew no more.

If the truth be known, Mr. Bingley had purposefully returned home from his engagement early on the hopes of catching a glimpse of the beautiful Miss Bennet. His friend Darcy chose to stay indoors until the rain was spent, but Bingley gave some sort of excuse about checking on his favorite hunter, who had recently stepped into a gopher hole. If Darcy smiled to himself at the feeble pretext, his friend did not notice. He was much too anxious to return home before the company departed.

And now Mr. Bingley's wet ride had been rewarded with much more than a glimpse. Now he stood with his arms full of the woman who had filled his thoughts since that first dance in Meryton. He took control instantly at the sight of the pale, white face beneath him, shouting for the servants and ordering Caroline to send for a doctor. His other sister stood uselessly wringing her hands, so he swept Jane's feet from under her and carried her up the stairs to one of the many spare bedrooms.

Laying her gently on the bed, Mr. Bingley stood back and wished for something more to do. Her eyes never opened and her cheeks held a deep unnatural flush. Once again he shouted for the doctor, as he felt a panic like none other he had experienced in his short, privileged lifetime.
A servant entered with a basin of water and he was forced to stand back as they applied a cool compress to Miss Bennet's forehead. Caroline pushed him out with some nonsense about the sick room being no place for a man, and he stood helplessly in the hallway looking at the door that was shut in his face.

The doctor arrived in due time and his diagnosis proclaimed it no more than a cold. As long as Miss Bennet remained warm and dry, she should be up and about in a few days. The sisters rejoiced at this news, for the guilt would have been heavy if they had sent Jane off in a drafty carriage, only to die at home. They exhaled in relief and left her in the charge of their capable servants, giving orders to be alerted the moment she awakened.

Mr. Bingley's worries were less easily assuaged. He could not have peace until Miss Bennet had regained consciousness and his contribution to her recovery was the groove he wore in the carpet with his constant pacing. He waited in vain, for Jane's exhaustion had completely overwhelmed her, and she spent the night in a deep, feverish sleep. The maid attended to her, and occasionally gave updates to her master who waited in the hallway. She suggested during one of their conversations that he should rest in a nearby chair and she would awaken him when there was any news.

Bingley sat in the chair for all of two minutes, before he was up again. He knew that this was probably a common affliction, a minor cold, and hardly deserved the worry he felt. He knew that well. The sensible thing would be to retire for the night and check on Miss Bennet in the morning. Charles made it all the way to the end of the hallway before he turned and came back. It was no use. The memory of her still, white face as she had collapsed in his arms haunted him. He could not be easy until he had seen her for himself. He had just settled in the chair once more when the bedroom door opened and the maid stepped out with a pitcher in hand.

"How is she?"

"About the same, Sir." The maid noted his harried appearance and tried to offer some comfort. "I'm sure her fever will break after a few more compresses. I am just going to fetch some more water and will return shortly."

Charles nodded and sat back at his wooden station. He watched the maid disappear down the corridor before he moved. Stealing quietly to the door, he hesitated only a moment before opening it. He needed just one look to reassure himself, but what he found hardly added to his peace of mind.

Jane's face glowed from the fever inside of her and her gown was drenched with perspiration. She tossed slightly from side to side and murmured words he could not distinguish. He moved closer until he was standing over her.

Jane knew nothing of her surroundings but her dreams swirled through her head like one of her younger sister's at a dance. She saw her family at home, sitting cozily around the fire while she stood staring through the window outside as the storm raged above her.

Mary sat at the piano, while Kitty and Lydia practiced the latest reel. Elizabeth was in the chair by the fire with a book. Mrs. Bennet talked continually to her husband of taking a trip to London and Mr. Bennet continually ignored her. Everything was as it should be.

The rain pounded hard against her frame and the noise from the thunder drowned out her calls for Elizabeth to come and let her in. She wandered from one door to another, trying desperately to enter, but each lock was bolted against her until, in desperation, Jane sank to the flagstones at the front entrance and curled herself into a ball. The chill of the night seeped through the thin muslin of her wet dress and pierced straight through to her bones. She shivered violently and all seemed lost, when a warmth started in her cheek and spread throughout the rest of her body. The driving rain was replaced by a welcome silence, the restless dreams stilled at last; and Jane's tossing and turning finally ceased.

Charles knelt beside the bed with his large hand pressed against the side of her face. Her agitation ended almost the moment he touched her. It was rather a compromising position and he knew he should exit before the servant returned; but Charles was loathe to leave her alone when she drew comfort from his presence.

He whispered her name softly, and brushed a damp curl off her forehead; then withdrawing his hand quickly, he stood and left the room.

The maid rounded the hallway corner only moments later to find her master sitting in the same position she had left him.

"Don't worry, sir. I've spent many an evening nursing my sick brother and sisters. This type of sickness looks much worse than it is, but the fever will leave her soon."

Her words proved prophetic when Miss Bennet slept soundly upon her return. The maid took great pride in her nursing talents and felt a bit put out when Mr. Bingley failed to congratulate her when she delivered the good report.

He simply murmured, "Thank God!" shook her hand warmly and finally retired to his room for what few hours of sleep were left. His obvious relief and the fervor with which he shook her hand gave the woman much to speculate on at a later time with the other servants in the kitchen. They recognized something that had escaped his sisters' notice to this point---that this was not a brief flirtation to be easily forgotten when he returned to town. It appeared that the master was a hopeless case that only a lifetime of marital bliss could cure.

Posted on: 2008-10-27

VIII

"My dear Jane, you must let me fetch you something from the library. We have an extended collection to choose from here at Netherfield and I am sure the hours will grow quite tedious while you are confined to bed."

"Reading should tire her out, Louisa. Perhaps I could bring in some cards and we could play at piquet."

Jane thanked them both for their offers, but admitted she did not feel up to reading or cards at the moment. Though the doctor had found no great cause for alarm, his powders did nothing to improve the headache that had returned with a vengeance.

"Good morning!"

Mr. Bingley's head popped around the doorjamb and Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst upbraided him soundly for his impertinence. Charles knew that the bounds of decency were being stretched by his appearance in Miss Bennet's bedroom, even with such vocal chaperones, but found he could not help himself, as the temptation to ensure that she was truly well overtook him.

He had spent most of the morning formulating the good excuse in his mind of sending a note to her family to alert them of her illness. Charles had his speech all prepared, but the sight of Jane propped against the pillows quite drove it from his mind. Her hair fell down around her shoulders in a tumble of silken strands and her cheeks still had a slight, pink tinge that only accentuated the color of her eyes.

Mr. Bingley stood for several seconds like one of the many trout he had caught in the lake only that week. His mouth moved, but no words sounded. His sisters continued to point out the impropriety of him being there, when he remembered his mission.

"A note! I thought you might want to send one to your parents, telling them of your illness, Miss Bennet. I am sure they must be worried for you and we must let them know how much better you are looking. I mean feeling, for you were looking fine last evening, apart from the fever and such. That is to say," he paused as he considered the mess he had made of his request. "Would you like to write a note to send to Longbourn?"

He shrugged his shoulders with an apologetic smile, but he need not have worried. Jane only smiled in return at his thoughtfulness.

"Thank you. Yes, I should like to send something to Lizzy." Her voice had a slight rasp to it from the soreness of her throat.

"Shouldn't it be to your mother, dear?" Mrs. Hurst inquired.

"No." Jane blushed at how little her mother must have worried at her absence. "Lizzy was quite concerned for my safety when I left on horseback. I know she must have worried greatly when I did not return home last night. I shall write to her
and she will tell Mama what has happened. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, Mr. Bingley."

"With all my heart, it is a joy to be of service to you. I have brought you pen and paper," Bingley withdrew them from behind his back with a flourish, proud of himself for thinking so far ahead, "and I will send the servant with your note as soon as you are finished."

It was hard for Jane to formulate the right words in her mind as she held quill in hand. She wished she could ask her sister to come straight away and keep her company, but did not wish to worry or inconvenience her. In the end, she settled for a brief report of what had occurred that downplayed any discomfort she was experiencing, and highlighted the kind treatment she had received from her friends.

Bingley took the finished note from her hand and rushed to find a servant to deliver it. He felt quite useless, knowing Miss Bennet was so ill, and was happy to be of any service he could.

The sisters excused themselves a short time later for the breakfast hour. They had not been long at their meal when the maid announced the arrival of Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst could hardly contain themselves at her appearance. Splashes of mud decorated the hem of her gown. Her hair had a wild, windblown look to it and her cheeks glowed from the physical exertion.

"I beg your pardon for interrupting you at breakfast. I realize you could not have expected me and my arrival must be a great inconvenience to you all. My concern for my sister is my only excuse."

Lizzy saw the contemptuous looks from the sisters and gave them all the attention she felt they deserved, which was none.

Mr. Darcy nodded slightly, greeted her with a formal "Good Morning" and appeared to be studying her appearance most intently. Elizabeth assumed he held her in the greatest contempt, as well, for cavorting around the countryside on foot. Mr. Hurst could not be bothered to look up from his breakfast long enough to even acknowledge her and Mr. Bingley seemed the only one truly glad to see her. He crossed the room and welcomed her heartily, knowing what pleasure it would give to Jane.
"Did you walk here, Miss Bennet? Had I known you wished to come, I should have gladly sent the carriage for you. In fact, it was most remiss of me not to offer it, and I beg your pardon for my insensitivity."

"How long a distance is it from your home?" Mrs. Hurst deigned to ask over the rim of her teacup.

"Three miles."

Lizzy's chin lifted slightly as if she dared them to abuse her for it; and the sisters whispered among themselves which made her think they did just that.

"Would you like some breakfast?" Mr. Bingley immediately offered. "I am sure you must be hungry after such a walk."

"No, indeed! I thank you." Her estimation of Mr. Bingley rose at the manner in which he treated the situation - with all of the grace and good humour of a true gentleman. "I should like nothing more than to see Jane, if I may."

"I am afraid she had an uncomfortable night. It was not until the early hours of the morning that her fever broke." Bingley left out the fact that he knew the exact time because of his nightlong vigil. "Come. Let me show you upstairs to her room."

He offered his arm and Elizabeth gratefully accepted it as she turned from the judgmental eyes of the rest of the party. Miss Bingley unwillingly rose to accompany them, and the three made their way to Jane's bedroom. Charles left them outside the door and the two women entered alone.

"Lizzy!" The joy in Jane's voice upon seeing her sister made up for every unspoken slight Elizabeth had received that morning.

"I hoped you might come, though I didn't want to trouble you."

"Nonsense!" Elizabeth took off her gloves and sat next to Jane. "You know how I loved to fancy myself a nurse in our childhood. You always bore my pokes and prodding with such patience, and I shall have great enjoyment experimenting on you once again."

Jane's laugh turned into a cough midway and Miss Bingley offered her a drink of water from the bedside table.

"My sister and I will return as soon as breakfast has finished, Jane, dear." Her tone held a much softer note, which disappeared when she faced Elizabeth. "If you need anything at all, please feel free to ring for a servant," and with a swish of her skirt, she was gone.
Jane tried to tell Lizzy of all the kindness she had received from her hosts, but her throat was not equal to the task. She concluded with, "I am so glad to see you, Lizzy," before falling into sleep once again. There were no vexing dreams this time, and she awoke to find the worried face of her sister close by.

IX

Mrs. Hurst showed Elizabeth to an elegantly appointed room that she might use for her stay, but she spent little time in it, choosing instead to spend the bulk of the night by Jane's side. Her sister was by no means worse, and managed to sleep for several hours at a time. Whenever she woke, it was always to find Lizzy hovering nearby with a glass of water and a smile.

A servant came in the early hours with an inquiry from Mr. Bingley as to the patient's health, and his sisters also sent a housemaid at a much later time to ask about their dear friend. Lizzy wrote a note to Longbourn asking her mother and sisters to visit, much to Jane's protests.

"I feel so much better, Lizzy, and there is no need to trouble them. I am sure that I shall be on my feet by midday and ready to return home."

"And deprive our mother of an extended visit to Netherfield that she can hold over the heads of all our neighbors! You would not be so cruel, Jane-for you know she shall turn your stay here into the greatest of compliments to our family; her daughter---the honoured guest of Mr. Bingley, who sat pining away at her bedside while she languished at death's door!"

Elizabeth threw her hands over her heart in a melodramatic fashion, and Jane begged her to be serious in between her bouts of coughing and laughter; but Lizzy was not far from wrong for Mrs. Bennett arrived in good time that afternoon and flatly refused that her daughter should be moved so soon. What followed was a quarter of an hour of sheer torture for Elizabeth as her mother and sisters inadvertently took every opportunity of embarrassing her by insulting Mr. Darcy, begging for Mr. Bingley to give a ball, and offering profuse thanks for their excellent care of Jane. One positive aspect of the invalid's bedridden status was that she was spared these embarrassing scenes, but her sister Lizzy suffered double for being left to bear it alone.

"You must not allow my daughter to come home too quickly, Miss Bingley. She hates to be a burden upon anyone and will probably tell you she feels better than she does. I should think a few days rest shall do the trick quite nicely, though we shall miss her dreadfully at Longbourn."

Miss Bingley merely smiled in return, as if she were tired of responding to Mrs. Bennet's endless suggestions, and it was left to her brother to fill the conversational lull.

"Miss Bennet is most welcome to stay for as long as is needed. I hate the fact that she is ill, but must admit it makes Netherfield feel like a true home now that someone has been nursed back to health within its doors."

"You are too good, Mr. Bingley. My poor daughter would have surely perished if it had not been for the kindness of you and your excellent sisters, for she is quite delicate, but unwilling to complain. I only ask that she be allowed to trespass on your hospitality a short while longer, and then we shall bring her home. You know our house is quite desolate without her sweet temper and beautiful disposition. She brightens any home she is in, would you not agree?

Mr. Bingley would have agreed if she had given him the chance, but she kept talking as she stepped through the front door and passed on to her carriage; and her voice could be heard as they drove away, exclaiming to her daughters what an excellent bit of shrubbery was lining the drive.

X

After the inauspicious visit of Mrs. Bennett and her younger daughters, Elizabeth returned to her sister's room with burning cheeks, unburdening her smarting pride to Jane. She forbore from mentioning every untoward remark their mother had uttered, but gave her a general idea of the embarrassing behavior exhibited by Mrs. Bennet and Lydia. Jane felt no end of remorse at the news, and was suddenly thankful for the headache that would keep her from facing anyone for a period and her slight kept her from facing anyone for the remainder of the day, until she finally made an appearance the following evening. When she did feel strong enough to ventur out, she felt much more equal to the task of salvaging the family pride - as all that remained of her cold was a slight cough.

Jane descended the stairs slowly, holding on to Lizzy's arm for support, but her sister's presence was no longer required when they reached the drawing room, for Mr. Bingley leapt from his chair to assist her. He seated her near the fireplace, stoked the logs with a poker, fetched a pillow for her back, and fussed about her so much that Caroline declared he was being a nuisance. Charles paid her no mind, whatsoever, and begged for Miss Bennet to offer him any mission which might make her more comfortable.

"I am most comfortable, Mr. Bingley; I thank you. You and your sisters have been all that is kind during my illness and I shall be greatly relieved when I cease to be a burden to you all."

"I wish with all my heart that every burden in life could be so pleasant. I shall feel quite useless once you have gone away again."

Miss Bennet blushed very prettily at this speech, but was saved from replying when Mrs. Hurst came to sit beside her and show her one of her favorite bracelets. The evening wore on pleasantly enough until a verbal skirmish occurred between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. It became rather uncomfortable when the subject somehow turned to personal defects. Jane was alarmed at the spirit with which Lizzy answered him, for she felt sure that Mr. Darcy was not used to be addressed in such a manner.

"And your defect is a propensity to hate everybody," Lizzy declared with an arch to her brow, all but daring him to deny it.

Far from denying it, Mr. Darcy only smiled and replied, "And yours is willfully to misunderstand them."

Jane and Mr. Bingley glanced at each other in alarm, for neither would have liked such accusations leveled at them, but the two parties involved seemed to be relishing the challenge. The conversation ended, much to Jane's relief, when Ms. Bingley declared they should have some music and threw open the pianoforte. She was not concerned with the subject being discussed, for being accused of hating everyone would not ruffle her in the least, but she did grow tired of a subject so wholly unconnected with herself and wished an opportunity to show of her musical accomplishments to her less fortunate guests.

Jane sighed with relief when Mr. Bingley suggested a walk in the garden, and they left the charged atmosphere for the quiet evening breeze that awaited just outside the drawing room doors.

XI

The music of the pianoforte drifted through the open doors as they sat on a nearby bench and Jane remarked upon Miss Bingley's proficiency to her brother.

"She must have studied conscientiously to be so adept at her age. But then I am amazed at the range of talents both she and Mrs. Hurst possess. I cannot sing, or paint, or embroider cushions. And my pitiful attempts at playing an instrument were met with howls of derision from our family dogs. I searched quite diligently as a girl, but never found a single talent in my entire body."

"This may be what I admire the most about you, Miss Bennet. I have spent many an evening in a company of ladies being regaled with this accomplishment and that, and never found even one fraction of the enjoyment I take in one minute's conversation with you. It is a talent in and of itself to make all around them feel important and welcome, and you have mastered this in a way that is most worthy."

They sat just within sight of the house. Anyone passing by the veranda doors might have stepped outside to join them, but the length of the walk might discourage them from trying. This happy coincidence was anything but chance. Charles found himself planning all sorts of clever schemes of late to enjoy the pleasure of Miss Bennet's company alone. The effort was unusual for a man who had never used such strategic maneuvers at any time in the past. He often took no thought at all of what would occur from day to day; he left such matters to Mr. Darcy. His friend kept him on time for important appointments and up to date with any information worth knowing about the state of the world.

His business manager guarded his vast financial investments and sent him a monthly report that he rarely bothered to read. And his sisters' constant gossip apprised him of any changes in their immediate social circle. This left Bingley free to meet all of the new friends that awaited him around every corner and to enjoy the wide world at large.

His gaze rested on the ground in front of them. They sat with a foot of distance between them, yet the setting sun cast their shadows closer together on the ground, almost touching, with only a hair's breadth between them.

The dark forms mesmerized him and, without realizing it, he moved closer to her. The shapes merged, and when he turned at last his face was mere inches from her own; pulling back he admonished himself silently. Miss Bennet was the finest lady he had ever known, far above him in sense and refinement. He must treat her with as much respect as she deserved.

Jane hardly suspected the personal nature of his thoughts, for her mind was occupied with what Lizzy had told her of their family's visit. She admitted to herself that she was relieved to have been spared the inevitable flattery of her mother and unladylike prodding of Lydia. From Elizabeth's account, it had taxed the patience of everyone but Mr. Bingley, who seemed to remain in good humor no matter what the circumstance. She wanted him to know how much she appreciated his forbearance, and ventured on the subject lightly.

"I understand my youngest sister was quite unseemly in her request for you to hold a ball. I apologize for her behavior; she has always possessed high spirits when it comes to amusement of any kind."

"Not at all, Miss Bennet. I too have my fair share of high spirits when it comes to dancing, and am more than happy to invite the whole countryside to share them with me. Your sister only reminded me of what I had meant to do myself."

"Thank you for your kindness to Lydia. Choosing the day of the ball will occupy her mind for a week, and I am afraid she will give herself far too much importance from the honor."

"With all my heart, Miss Bennet; it gives me great pleasure to do this small favor for your sister and it makes little difference to me upon which day the ball is held."

"Tell me, Mr. Bingley, do you ever do anything with only half your heart?"

He laughed that she had found him out so easily and so quickly.

"No indeed, and my sisters often chide me for my tendency to rush into decisions and devote myself entirely to whatever matter is at hand, whether it be dancing a reel or picking out a new hunting coat. They believe it is imprudent of me and say I should be more circumspect, like Mr. Darcy. What think you on the subject?"

"I think we should all be mindful of the things and people around us," she answered carefully for she would not have him be anything other than what he was, which seemed quite perfect to her, "but I find your exuberance for life one of your finest qualities. Perhaps it is only your animated mode of expression that annoys them."

"You are quite right, once again, Miss Bennet. I talk about my heart far too much for a gentleman." He admitted it with good humour. "And in the future I shall endeavor to restrain myself from speaking so, unless the situation truly calls for it."

Silence followed this declaration and they sat enjoying the fine weather for several moments before he spoke again.

"I hope you have not found your time at Netherfield to be too depressing, being shut in your room for most of the visit. It would drive me mad to be confined to one place for such a long period. How could you bear the tediousness?"

"Your sisters have been everything that was kind to me, visiting me often and amusing me with stories of their adventures during school days; and Lizzy finished reading an entire novel from your library to distract me, while I was bedridden."

"And how did you like it? I am informed that our collection is quite extensive, though I could not speak on this subject with any firsthand knowledge. I hope the story amused you."

"I liked it very much," she replied. "It was the usual plight we women love to read, about a lady who would do anything for love. She fought, and wept, and carried on until I found myself feeling more sorry for her than for myself. She made being in love seem like a torment much worse than my simple cold, and I believe that may have been the turning point on my road to recovery.

"And what of yourself and love, Miss Bennet? Do you believe fair play does not apply, as the old saying goes? Would you weep and carry on and do anything it asked of you?"

Mr. Bingley presented the question in a joking manner, and was therefore surprised as a shadow passed over her face.

"I believe love is too often the excuse that people use to do exactly what they please, no matter the consequences for themselves or those around them. Please do not misunderstand me, romance is as attractive to me as any other woman, but I hope that my perception of true love is not something that has been shaped by reading too many fanciful novels.

"And what is true love, Miss Bennet?" Mr. Bingley leaned forward to hear her answer to this question, for he found himself quite anxious to know her opinion on this matter.

Jane paused for a moment as she considered the examples she had seen in her own household; her mother's tantrums, her father's negligence, and her younger sisters constant flipping of their affections from one redcoat to the next.

"True love should not have anything to do with yourself. True love is wishing for the other person's happiness, no matter how it may effect your own."

He sat back to consider her answer, for it pleased and shamed him all at once. In all this time, he had focused solely on the joy that Jane had brought into his own life, but now he could not help but wonder if he had brought any joy to her in return.

Jane noticed his withdrawal and misinterpreted his reaction as restlessness. She found herself embarrassed at sharing so personal a thought with him and shifted uncomfortably on the stone bench.

"I have kept you to myself for far too long, I am afraid. Your sisters will be wondering where we are. Perhaps we should return to the house."

She stood and smoothed the wrinkles from the front of her dress.

"Yes, of course. " He quickly followed suit, though he was sorry for their time to end. "You have been ill, and I have foolishly kept you out of doors for an unconscionable amount of time."

And with that, the two who would have liked nothing more than to sit together all evening made their way indoors to join the rest of their party.

Posted on: 2008-11-03

XII

Jane announced her determination to return home at breakfast the next morning, and it took very little time for her and Elizabeth to gather their belongings afterward. Mr. Bingley declared until the end that she should not feel the need to hurry, and, when he handed them both into the carriage, he stood waving them off until they disappeared around the curve in the drive.

Mrs. Bennet accepted Jane's sudden return home with little grace, for she had wished her daughter to make the most of her time with Mr. Bingley, now that she was actually feeling better. She welcomed her daughters with an affectionate embrace, but spent the rest of the afternoon berating them for rushing away from Netherfield Park. It was with relief that Jane retired for the evening, and by breakfast the following morning, her mother was in a much better temper; just in time to hear the latest distressing news from Mr. Bennet.

He began the ill tidings with the deceptively simple announcement:

"I hope, my dear, that you have ordered a good dinner today, because I have reason to expect an addition to our family party."

He then informed his wife that the addition would be a gentleman and a stranger, which caused Mrs. Bennet's eyes to sparkle, for if the man were single and of good fortune, he should be a fine prospect for one of their four remaining daughters. It was with great distress that she then learned the visitor would be the very man who could one day throw these very daughters out on the street, if he so chose.

Even when Mr. Bennet produced the letter which Mr. Collins had written, stating his desire to make amends to their amiable girls, this failed to move her. She complained loudly and bitterly until his hired chaise appeared at their front door, at which time she was all that was polite, but reserved.

"My dear Mrs. Bennet," he bowed low over her hand, "It is with greatest of pleasure that I may finally meet the wife of my esteemed cousin, and I hope that the trouble I have caused you with my arrival has not brought too much interruption into your daily lives."

"On the contrary, Mr. Collins, my husband only informed us of your visit this morning, so any interruption has been of short duration."

"I am so glad to hear it, ma'am, for I could never forgive myself if -- what an excellent front hallway you have here!"

He paused from his apologies to admire the foyer.

"I hardly expected it to be so roomy, and the decoration you have chosen is so charming. Blue is one of the favored colors of my patroness, Lady Catherine De Burgh, and she has chosen to decorate one of her own parlors with the exact same shade. Of course, Rosings Park contains so many parlors that there is hardly a color not in use, but I am sure that, could she see the scheme with which you have laid out this room, she would definitely give her approval."

"You cannot know what that means to me, Mr. Collins," replied Mrs. Bennet. "If you will follow me, I will see that you are settled in your room."

"I hope that I have not put one of my fair cousins out with my visit, for it is against my very nature to bring inconvenience to anyone."

Mrs. Bennet informed him in her haughtiest tone that Longbourn was more than large enough to house a spare bedroom for visitors and once again he remarked on how impressed he was with its size. Their conversation continued in much the same way as she led him upstairs, and later when they sat in the drawing room, awaiting time for dinner. Mr. Collins was all obsequious posturing as he examined every item in the room, and Mrs. Bennet was all sarcastic sweetness as she asked if he would like a catalogue of everything's worth. Mr. Bennet seemed to enjoy the battle Mr. Collins did not even realize he was fighting, but the undercurrent of thinly veiled hostility from her mother caused Jane no end of distress; and it was with great relief that she arose when Hill announced that dinner was served.

XIII

Mr. Collins spent much of the meal passing dishes directly to the beautiful Miss Bennet -- though Mary sat between them -- and asking her to pass them back again. It is forgivable that Jane missed the intentional nature of his attentions, for she found nothing romantic in a bowl of cabbage; but Mr. Collins found her easy, smiling countenance encouragement enough and he settled on her as the companion of his future life before the servant had even brought in the pudding.

His pointed behavior continued after the meal when he seated himself directly beside her in the drawing room and tried to ascertain the family's views on religious matters.

"Miss Bennet, do you not consider it a Christian's God-given duty to reform those with sinful, unfortunate habits by pointing out the error of their ways and providing a sober, disciplined example for them to follow with your own personal lifestyle?"

"I believe God expects each of us to help our neighbors as best we can, Mr. Collins, but I have also observed that confronting people with their mistakes can often lead to resentment and a lack of intimacy among friends. Therefore I try to help others in any way possible, while not provoking them with moral platitudes of which they are already aware."

Mr. Collins seemed pleased enough with this answer and next asked her views upon consistent tithing. Lydia sat across from them and yawned quite noisily, but one look from Jane kept her from saying outright how she felt. Her elder sister was forced to carry on the conversation alone, for she would receive no help from her younger sister. Mary's hard won knowledge in such matters would have shone in such a subject, but her mother had sent her off to play the pianoforte.

"You must relish your job as a clergyman, Mr. Collins. Indeed, I consider it one of the worthiest callings available to a gentleman, for there are so many opportunities presented to be of help to those around you. It must leave you with a true sense of fulfillment at the end of the day."

"You have grasped the situation completely, dear cousin." He was greatly impressed with Jane's appreciation of his position, which only reinforced his earlier decision that she was the obvious choice to enrich his hearth and happiness.

"Lady Catherine counts my advice as quite indispensable, and is forever calling upon me to give my opinions on whatever venture she is undertaking. Of course, her sound judgment never forces me to make an untoward comment. Her decisions are always a testament to her charitable nature and business acumen; but it is the greatest honor to be of service to her when I can."

"I am sure the poor people of your parish must appreciate the support of Lady Catherine and yourself. Do you find much time for them, as well?" Jane began to suspect that his self-imposed duties did not extend outside the well-manicured hedges of Rosings Park, but he assured her of his many strides in enriching the lives of his less fortunate parishioners.

"Why only last week Lady Catherine suggested that we put together a list of the deserving poor and increase the offerings for them by a whole shilling a family. Some of the more affluent members of my congregation might balk at the increase, but she insists that every mercy should be shown to those God has not found it favorable to look kindly on."

Jane tried to appear impressed by the news but found it difficult to believe such a paltry sum could make much of a difference in the destitute situations of these people. She also thought it unfortunate that a minister should have such a low opinion of God as to paint him as quite a miserly being, and she could not imagine what his Sunday sermons must be like. Imagination proved unnecessary, however, when she received a good taste of them during the remainder of the evening, for Mr. Collins talked unceasingly from the time dinner was finished until everyone retired to their bedrooms for the night.

XIV

The morning found Lydia anxious to be off to Meryton and all her sisters agreed to join her, except for Mary who preferred mental exercise over the physical kind. They started out at a brisk pace and Jane happily noted that Mr. Collins no longer devoted the bulk of his attention to her, choosing instead to walk beside Elizabeth. Jane suspected a conversation that she had overheard with Mrs. Bennet earlier might have alerted him to her attention being engaged elsewhere, and she was never more thankful for her mother's candid manner of speaking than in that moment. Poor Lizzy appeared less than happy with the trade and she had her sister's full sympathy as Mr. Collins began to give her a detailed summary of his most recent sermon to his congregation in Hunsford.

They came upon the town when he was halfway through his sixth point and the attention of all four ladies was immediately drawn to a handsome young stranger standing with a prior acquaintance from the militia named Mr. Denny. Introductions followed and the man was revealed to be a Mr. Wickham, just lately arrived from London, who had accepted a commission in the corps and would be stationed there in Meryton. Lydia and Kitty giggled excessively at the news, but Jane could hardly blame them, for this new addition was decidedly handsome with a very fashionable air and pleasing mode of address. The sudden appearance of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy on their horses drove any thought of him from her head, however, and Jane blushed with pleasure when Mr. Bingley informed her they had just been on their way to Longbourn to enquire after her health. They introduced him and Mr. Darcy to Mr. Wickham, and then, to the great disappointment of Jane, Mr. Bingley begged their pardon for intruding on their party and rode on.

This short, unsatisfying conversation left her in a somewhat unsociable mood, especially considering that their subsequent removal to their Aunt Phillips's home promised to be all that was harried and noisy.

The requisite introduction of Mr. Collins was made in short order, and then Lydia and Kitty immediately demanded every detail their aunt knew of the prepossessing Mr. Wickham, who had continued on his walk with Mr. Denny. Jane excused herself, though Mrs. Phillips begged her to remain a little longer, with claims of a prior errand and she made her way back to the street with the large basket she had carried all the way from home. At one point on their journey, Mr. Collins had half-heartedly offered his assistance, but Jane saw his reluctance and refused him with thanks.

Now she walked on alone, enjoying the beautiful day and the peaceful solitude as she waved greetings to the trades people in their store windows. Thoughts of her upcoming mission and plans for what she should say filled her mind. So complete was her introspection that she failed to notice a certain gentleman riding not far from her, now minus his friend, Mr. Darcy.

Mr. Bingley reined in his horse and enjoyed the beautiful picture she made with the wind blowing her skirt, her bonnet slightly askew and her small, gloved hands clutching a large, cumbersome basket. He had just decided to offer his assistance when he noticed a man of unkempt appearance join her. The stranger's dirty, threadbare clothing showed the signs of a dissolute life and the slight weave of his body suggested he was currently in an inebriated state.

Charles quickly dismounted, letting his reins fall useless to the ground as his only thought was to protect Miss Bennet. His mad dash to her side startled both Jane and her shabby companion, but she greeted him with a warm smile.

"Mr. Bingley! How nice to see you. And in such an animated manner." She did not seem distressed; on the contrary, her laughing eyes told him she knew why he had appeared so quickly, but her face showed what a pleasure his unexpected presence truly was.

"The pleasure is mine, Miss Bennet. I noticed you standing here and thought I might pay my respects once again." He bowed and looked inquiringly at the man beside her.

"Oh, forgive me! I have been remiss in making the proper introductions." Jane turned to the stranger by her side and smiled.

"Mr. Bingley, may I present Mr. Miller, a very old and dear friend of our family. He was the foreman of our farm at Longbourn for many years, but he now resides in Meryton with his three daughters."

Jane presented the unsteady man as if they were in Sir Lucas' favored St. James' Court. Mr. Miller held out his worn hand and Mr. Bingley shook it firmly but gently, noting the slight shaking of his fingers.

"I was about to take Miss Jane to my home for tea, Mr. Bingley. You're invited, if you like." The man gave a slight, unsteady bow and waited for a reply.

"Thank you for including me in the invitation, sir. I should be delighted to accompany you both. And please allow me to carry this, Miss Bennet."
Charles took the basket from Jane's hands and collected his horse in quick order. He offered his free arm to her and they hurried to catch up with Mr. Miller's swiftly retreating back.

Jane knew that Mr. Bingley had observed the man's intoxicated state and wished she could warn him of their destination; but she would not risk Mr. Miller overhearing her. She knew the man's proud nature, and would do nothing to jeopardize her open invitation to his house that she had fought hard and long to win.

The houses grew more dilapidated as they walked and they finally stopped in front of the most disreputable one on the narrow street. Mr. Miller lurched through the door and Jane followed him into a dimly lit room, while Mr. Bingley tied his horse to a post outside.

Three young children rushed from somewhere in the dingy interior in one noisy mass the moment they saw Miss Bennet.

Jane smiled, and laughed, and kissed the little girls with no care for their dirty hands and faces. They ranged in ages from five to eight years old and their dresses looked like they had seen several owners before them. They obviously felt no fear of Jane, but the tall, well-dressed man that appeared behind her gave them pause. They might have rushed from the room as quickly as they had entered, but Jane caught their hands and drew them forward.

"Mr. Bingley, I have the honor of presenting Mr. Miller's three beautiful daughters. This is Lucy, Fanny, and Caroline. Girls, this is Mr. Charles Bingley, the new tenant of Netherfield Park."

"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, ladies. Do you know, Caroline, that you bear the same name as my dear sister? Though I think Fanny and Lucy are equally as lovely names."

The young girls soon warmed to the handsome man who smiled in such a friendly manner and invited them to all talk at once. Jane saw with approval how easily he won the children over and kept them occupied while she fixed the tea. Taking off her gloves, she took mugs from the dusty shelves, and washed them thoroughly while a pot of water heated in the fireplace. A tablecloth, bread, butter, and preserves appeared from her basket as she set everything out for the meal.

Charles noted that most of the supplies came from Jane's basket and suspected there was more food inside that she had brought for the family. Her kindness was admirable, but even more so was the way she treated her father's former employee with respect. She conversed easily with Mr. Miller as she set the table, and complimented him on how well the girls were looking. She gently reminded him to keep up with their school work and encouraged him to call on her if they needed anything.

Charles heard it all and marveled. He had never seen such matter of fact kindness, and it shamed him to the core. What had he ever done to better the plight of someone else in all of his selfish life?

Their visit concluded much too soon, and the girls begged him to come back again.

"If you come soon, Mr. Bingley, our dog should have a brand new litter of puppies!" Fanny told him.

"I could hardly miss that now, could I? I am ever so fond of puppies. And it should also afford me another opportunity of seeing the charming young ladies of the house."

Bingley promised them another visit soon and watched as the girls embraced Jane.

She then shook hands with Mr. Miller and repeated her offer of assistance if he should need it. The man looked embarrassed and thanked her shortly before taking the girls inside.

Jane and Charles stood outside the house, at a sudden loss for words. She fumbled with her gloves, hoping he would speak first.

"It is a beautiful day for a walk. May I see you home, Miss Bennet?"

"Thank you," she wished she could accept but circumstances were not in her favor, "but my sisters are visiting at my aunt's house and I am supposed to meet them directly. They must be wondering what has kept me so long."

He was disappointed that their time could not be prolonged, but he would take what opportunity he could find.

"Then allow me to escort you back to the main street."

He took up the reins of his horse with one hand and offered her his arm and she placed her gloved hand in the crook of his elbow with a word of thanks. They walked quietly for several moments before she spoke.

"Thank you for being so kind to Mr. Miller and his family. I know their destitute situation must be far more dismal than you are used to seeing."

"On the contrary, Miss Bennet, I did nothing to deserve any praise. It is your kindness that I marvel at and the easy manner you offered this family your help, without any hint of condescension. I suspect that a man of his pride would not accept charity easily."

She colored at his compliment and shook her head.

"I must tell you he was not always like this. When I was a young girl, he ran my father's farm as if it were his own. There was not a detail that escaped his notice, yet he always took the time to talk to my sisters and myself; and he never failed to keep a pocketful of peppermints ready for whenever we saw him."

The description she gave bore no resemblance to the surly man Bingley had met and he silently wondered what had brought about such a change. As if Jane had heard the unspoken question, she answered him.

"His wife died."

She paused for a moment before she continued.

"Bess filled a room with her laughter and made every visitor in her home feel like a long lost relative. She doted on her family, and her husband adored her in return." She cleared her throat before continuing. "And then one winter she caught the influenza and was gone."

She surreptitiously brushed a hand over her eyes, before continuing. "Mr. Miller took to drink to handle the pain and his work suffered for it.
Father was forced to let him go, but we still see that he and the girls have enough to live on."

Charles hardly knew what to say. One thought stood out from the story and that one he expressed.

"He must have loved her very much."

Jane did not answer, but her hand tightened ever so slightly on his arm as they walked back to meet her sisters.