Part 1 of 2

Posted on Sunday, 13-Sep-98

ear Andrew,

I am writing to you from my desk at Netherfield. Yes, I am married! Three days ago Mr. Charles Bingley and I were united in wedlock.

The events of the past few months still amaze me. How am I to account for such fortune? After all the pain endured in the past few years, I never imagined that one day I would be as happy as I am now.

A small part of me feels guilty for expressing my joy to you, but since I have burdened you with my tribulation of late, I thought you might appreciate a happy ending.

I do believe my marriage will end our correspondence. It is time for me to begin a new chapter in my life. I will never forget you, Andrew. You have touched my soul in a way that time can not remove. I am grateful for all we had together, although it did not end the way I had planned, it was special.

Thank you for your friendship,
I will cherish it always.

Jane Bingley

Jane set her pen down and blew on the paper. She felt a somber pain in her heart. This was her final correspondence to Andrew.

He had been her savior during a long, lonely period last winter. "How many letters did I write then," she thought, "maybe ten?" Now, she would give up a bit of her past for the future.

She looked out the window in front of her desk. She considered the changes her life had taken in the past few years. The road to happiness for Jane had been hard traveled. Now, here she was, at her desk, in her house--happy!

A movement outside caught her eye. It was Charles. He was going on his morning ride, the first since their wedding. She gazed at her husband through the window as he mounted his horse.

Charles noticed her looking at him. He tipped his hat and smiled at her. She waved to him, beaming from ear to ear. They were truly in love with each other, as if God had played a part in their union.

Jane returned her attention to her letter. The ink had dried. Carefully she folded it, keeping the crease straight.

Three years earlier.

"Lizzy, slow down!" Jane hissed through clenched teeth. Her ankle was now throbbing. "I can hop only so fast, surely you realize this!"

Jane was getting vexed at her younger sister. "Why," she asked herself, "did I have to follow her up the hill? It was too steep! Why in the world does Lizzy have to be so blasted brave? This really hurts."

"I need to stop." She instructed her sister. Jane looked around; there was nothing to sit on. She unceremoniously sat down on the road.

"Pull off my shoe, I can not reach it."

"Oh really Jane, this is too much!" Lizzy started, as she bent down to remove her sister's shoe. "I have tripped many…"

Jane's ankle was swollen to twice the normal size.

"I will get Papa!" she yelled as she raced off toward the house, Jane's shoe in hand.

Jane had badly twisted her ankle. Mrs. Bennet advised Hill on the treatment she prescribed for the girl; compresses, rest and scolding.

"That could have been your neck," she bellowed, "you are very lucky indeed! I did not raise my daughters to go scampering about like wild heathens"

Jane responded by rolling her eyes and agreeing. She knew that any reprimand she would receive; Lizzy would get much worse.

After one full day, and no improvement, Mrs. Bennet sent for the doctor in Meryton.

Dr. Austen was a young man of six and twenty just out of school. His father had a sizable fortune in London, with Dr. Austen as sole heir. Mrs. Bennet was hoping to become aquatinted to this particular gentleman, but not this way.

"If only Mary or Kitty could have been injured, instead of Jane," she mused to Mr. Bennet, "and then Jane could show how compassionate and charitable she is."

"You are always thinking of your daughters, Mrs. Bennet, it must make you quite weary at the end of the day." He responded.

"I assure you, I take my responsibility seriously." She answered. "Just look at her Mr. Bennet," she pointed toward Jane, "now she appears like a wounded bird, not at all flattering to her figure!"

Jane sent her mother an exaggerated look pleading for mercy.

"Mother, really!" she cried. Jane looked to Lizzy for assistance, but she just shook her head, trying not to laugh.

"Jane, when the Doctor arrives, I want you to smile and act demure," Mrs. Bennet instructed, "and do not scrunch up your face if it hurts. That is most unbecoming!"

"Mother," she teased, "I assure you that although I am in constant pain and unable to give a proper curtsey, I will certainly perform to the best of my abilities."

"My girl!" Mrs. Bennet sighed.

Dr. Austen was everything Mrs. Bennet had expected. She greeted him warmly, thanking him profusely for coming such a distance on short notice. While they were exchanging pleasantries, Jane studied him. He was a tall man, but seemed well proportioned. His blond hair was lighter than hers, clipped closely to his head. His voice sounded soft yet competent. He was dressed fashionably, but without airs. She couldn't see his face; her mother was blocking her view. From what she could view so far, he seemed attractive.

It was not until he turned to examine her, that Jane fell in love.

Dr. Austen's features were perfectly formed. His skin was flawlessly smooth and tanned. He possessed deep brown eyes that expressed tenderness and dignity. He was smiling at Mrs. Bennet when he moved to view Jane. His smile was brilliant. Jane determined him to be the most handsome man she had ever encountered. For a brief moment, she wished it had been Mary or Kitty injured, instead of herself. She suddenly became self-conscious about her present state.

The smile upon his face was abandoned to amazement when he first looked at her. She was so beautiful, just as he had heard from the townsfolk. He thought he might melt when she gave him a slight smile. Her eyes were bright and cheerful. The light from outside reflected perfectly on her, she was almost glowing. He was momentarily struck speechless by the vision of this woman sitting on the couch. He could hardly contain his delight as he attempted to regain his composure.

"Miss Bennet," he stuttered, "let us have a look at your ailment." He was determined to behave in a professional manner. If it were not for the fact he had to touch this lovely creature's ankle, he would not of doubted his ability. He rifled through the bag he had brought with him.

Jane was quite unaware of his discomfort, for she was much to involved in her own to notice, but Mrs. Bennet did.

Mrs. Bennet was well relieved that Jane could still command admiration, even in her condition. Maybe the fall was a stroke of luck!

Lizzy bounded into the room at this time, having no knowledge of Dr. Austen's arrival. Her eyes went from Jane sitting on the couch with a handsome young man standing over her, to the black bag beside him. Instant recognition of the situation came to her.

"Oh, I beg your pardon," she cried, "If you will excuse me." She had planned to exit as graciously as possible, but Jane foiled her plan.

"No Lizzy, it is quite all right," Jane breathed, "let me introduce you."

Mrs. Bennet shot a frown at Jane. She did not want Elizabeth to take the Doctor's concentration away from Jane. He obviously admired Jane's beauty, now Mrs. Bennet wanted Jane to charm him with her continence. Lizzy would just attract attention as she always did, by being witty and open.

Jane ignored her mother's look and turned to the doctor.

"Dr. Austen, may I introduce my sister Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

The Doctor bowed in Elizabeth's direction. "Miss Bennet, it is a pleasure." He replied in a friendly tone.

"Dr. Austen, I do hope you find my dear sister able to recover. She may be too kind a person to mention this, but I am to blame for her condition. It would grieve me deeply to know I caused her irrevocable harm!" Elizabeth explained with a twinkle in her eyes. She had noticed Jane's expression when she entered the room- 'quite taken' she would say.

Lizzy's statement was all that was needed for the uncomfortable situation in the room to come to an end. Dr. Austen was able to resume his exam of Jane; relieved of the tension experienced previously in her presence.

Jane too found her senses had fully returned. She smiled bravely at the doctor, but avoided his eyes.

"She may have encouraged me," Jane whispered, "but it was I who did the deed."

Dr. Austen laughed. Charming and beautiful! he thought.

He continued with his work, possibly a little slower than usual, but thoroughly enjoying the conversation he was having with Miss Jane Bennet.

He was convinced Jane had not broken her ankle, just bruised it severely.

When time came for him to end his stay, he promptly informed Mrs. Bennet that a follow-up visit was required. He scheduled the appointment for two days hence.

Mrs. Bennet needed no encouragement and agreed at once.

As the Doctor took his leave, Jane watched him as best as she could from her position on the couch. Mrs. Bennet returned after he departed, beaming with pride.

"Oh Jane, he was quite taken by you!" She gushed. Mrs. Bennet was determined to go over every moment of his call.

Jane was not listening to her mother. Her mind was occupied with her own thoughts on the encounter.

If the gossipmongers in Meryton were correct, Dr. Andrew Austen and Miss Jane Bennet were an item. It was a well-known fact about town that he dined at her house three times in the past week!

Dr. Austen helped Jane through her recovery. He took her on short walks around the park, slowly building up to longer jaunts. At first, it was necessary for her to lean on his arm for support. As time went by, she took his arm simply for the closeness it afforded.

The hours spent in each other's company that autumn was some of the happiest for both.

In late October, Dr. Austen traveled to London for a visit with his father. He was born the only child of two only children. His mother had died two years past after a long and happy life. Since her death, his father had suffered greatly. Mr. Austen often complained about his world being empty now; with a wife gone and a son away. Dr. Austen sympathized with his father's predicament, offering invitations to the country to join him. Mr. Austen refused his son's kind petition. He preferred to stay in his London home, among his memories and sorrow.

Before his departure, Jane noticed changes in her Doctor. He was livelier, often caught smiling for no reason. He had also taken to calling her 'Dear Jane' and insisted on her using his Christian name. All of this added to Jane's belief that a proposal would happen soon. She knew a move of such importance would have to include the blessings of his father. Andrew felt a deep commitment to his only remaining family member; he spoke of it often.

The fortnight he was away moved slowly for Jane. She had confided everything to Elizabeth; they held no secrets. She expressed her feelings of love, and the torture of being apart for so long. She even revealed the three embraces they had exchanged.

Jane opened her heart to her sister; sharing the dream of someday soon being united to Andrew.

On the day of his intended return, the sky brought forth a terrible downpour. Jane was despondent; such a day would not bring Andrew back. With a heavy heart, she retired that night praying for clear skies tomorrow.

The next day was an improvement in the weather, drizzle being the only remain of the previous storm. By noon, the clouds gave way to the sun. Jane allowed herself to hope 'maybe today'.

At two in the afternoon, he arrived.

When she caught sight of him coming up the lane, she grabbed her cape and hurried outside, so they may walk the park in private. The grass was still wet but the air had warmed. Dr. Austen's complexion was pale. He told Jane that he had in-fact arrived in Meryton during the thunderstorm-chilled and feverish. After a good night rest, combined with several cups of his landlord's broth, he felt much improved with only a small cough remaining.

Jane, relieved he was once again with her, moved on to another subject.

"Andrew, how did you find your father, was he well?" She did not ask what was really on her mind--Did he give you his blessing?

"Yes Jane, he was well. Thank you for asking." Dr. Austen frowned and looked at the ground.

They walked quietly for a while. He noticed her looking at him with a confused look on her face. He did not want to continue; his pain was still fresh. His mind told him that he did owe her an explanation of his current situation.

"I will tell you all," he continued, "so you will understand my position."

Jane prepared herself as well as she could, but her confidence sank with his words.

"Jane, my father is a good man; jolly even-before the passing of my mother. I went to him to ask for his blessing, but I think you are well aware of this. I began to relate my intentions toward you to him, but he did not receive them graciously. He has threatened to cut off all financial support to us if we are to marry; including inheritance." Dr. Austen shook his head. He was delivering the worst of news to the woman he loved.

Jane was shocked. She could not take another step. Abruptly she removed her hand from his arm.

"What reason did he give for his actions?" She demanded. "How can he make such a judgment?"

Jane was becoming angry at the thought of a man she had never met, determining her future.

"How does he have a right to destroy our happiness Andrew!?!"

"Jane, let me explain. Father is not a vindictive man. I believe he does not realize what he is doing. During our conversation, he made the statement 'If I were to marry, I would never return to London.' I believe this to be the root cause of his refusal. I wanted to reassure him that I may indeed move to London with you, but I had not yet asked your opinion on the subject. I could not give him an empty promise." Dr. Austen stopped to cough.

He felt the need to go on.

"He is very lonely and unhappy. I am all he has left in the world. His fear motivates him to act. I hold the greatest hope that he will change his mind. Jane, he must! I can not be easy knowing I have caused pain to him."

Jane could control herself no more. Her anger surfaced and the tone of her voice was proof of it.

"This man, who is willing to reduce you to poverty if you marry me, still commands your sympathy? Although I admire your loyalty, Andrew, but I question the placement!"

Her words stung him.

"Is it the poverty that has you so concerned?" He too was feeling anger. "You seem not to consider the damage this matter has caused to me! I am asked to chose between the two most important people in my life," he cried, "I want them both!"

"It seems as if your father has placed you in your current situation Andrew. You must decide what your next step will be." She hissed and stormed off.

Jane was unwilling to shed a tear until she reached the comfort of her own room.

Everything she had desired was lost that day. Andrew was not the type of person who could choose between loved ones. He had too tender a heart for such a mission. She determined to make his choice an easy one; she would release him.

Jane stayed to her room for the next two days. She had not disclosed to anyone the conversation she had with Dr. Austen. Her heart was broken. Elizabeth attempted numerous times to get her to share her grief, but Jane stood firm. Had the family understood what pain it would bring her to discuss the matter, they would not have tried so hard.

Jane returned downstairs on the fourth day, although she would still not answer questions on the Dr. Austen subject. Andrew had not paid a call during the time elapsed. Jane took his inaction to mean he had made his decision. He picked his father over her!

The realization of this was very painful for her to endure. She had truly loved the man and believed him incapable of hurting another.

On the fifth day, a most unusual visitor came to the house. It was Mr. Roberts, Dr. Austen's landlord. He anxiously requested an audience with Jane.

"Miss Bennet, I come here today to make a request." He started. "Dr. Austen has taken ill. He assures my wife and me that he is well, but I hear him coughing at all hours in the night. He has not come down for his meals for three days and I am quite distressed! He would not permit Mrs. Roberts to enter his room today and I fear, he has taken a turn for the worst." Mr. Roberts paused, giving emphasis to his next words. "Miss Bennet, please join me and see if you can reach him. We are very fond of the Doctor, please join me!"

Part 2 of 2

Posted on Sunday, 13-Sep-98

Without hesitation, Jane raced to her father. She explained where she was going, giving him instructions to send Lizzy to her when she arrived home from Charlotte. Jane was in Mr. Roberts's carriage in three minutes flat, heading toward Meryton.

As she climbed the stairs to his room she could hear him coughing. Mr. Roberts was close on her heels. He had heard much about this lively young woman around town, maybe she could reach Dr. Austen, he thought.

When the coughing ceased, Jane made her move. She knocked on the door.

"Andrew, this is Jane," She said softly, "please open your door." Her heart pounded, as she heard no response.

"Andrew," she said a little louder, "let us see you, we are worried."

Still, there was silence. Jane was becoming frantic.

"Dr. Austen, If you do not open this door we shall be reduced to…"

"Jane," he mumbled, "go away!"

She felt a flood of relief and scorn as she heard him speak. He was alive, but did not want to see her! She would not detour and gathered her courage.

"I will not! If you will not see me, then allow Mr. Roberts to assess your condition. I will not leave until you agree!"

Defeated and too ill to fight, Andrew dressed himself and opened the door. Jane let out a startled gasp when she saw him--he looked dreadful. His face was pale and covered in a cold sweat. He was shivering, even though he was fully dressed and wrapped in a blanket. Jane had never witnessed anyone as ill as he was. It was shocking to her.

"I am alive, now please go away!" He demanded.

Jane stuck her foot in the door, preventing him from closing it.

"We will not Dr. Austen, " she stated bravely, "you are far too ill to be left alone!"

Andrew did not have the strength to argue with her. He felt another coughing fit coming on.

"Please Jane, let me be." Andrew began to feel dizzy. He reached for the doorknob, but caught Mr. Roberts's strong grasp instead.

"Son, you are going to do as Miss Bennet says. We will help you."

Jane gave a faint smile to Mr. Roberts and mouthed a thank you.

Mr. Roberts guided the doctor to a chair. Jane went downstairs to fetch Mrs. Roberts.

Mrs. Roberts was a kind and intelligent woman. Being childless, she doted on Dr. Austen as if he were her own son. The standing rule in her house was that nothing was too good for Dr. Austen! She found him always considerate of her and her husband, not haughty like some young men of his consequence could be.

After speaking with Jane, Mrs. Roberts was resolved to bring him back to health.

Moments later the two women returned with a pitcher of warm water and clean blankets. The family cook was instructed to prepare broth and tea for the doctor. Andrew had been changed into a clean nightshirt and was tucked tightly into bed. Mrs. Roberts began her examination of Andrew; feeling for fever and listening to him breathe. Jane stepped out of the room to give them some privacy. When Mrs. Roberts was finished, she asked Jane to join her downstairs.

"Miss Bennet, he is not well," she began, "I need you to pen a letter to his father, advising him of the situation. Mr. Roberts is taking notes on the medications Dr. Austen wants. He will retrieve them as soon as they are finished. I am going to have Martha change his linens, and when she is finished, I think it best that you return to him. Mr. Roberts and myself will be in the house; there will be no need to worry. Leave the door open Miss Bennet, for fresh air."

Mrs. Roberts stopped to collect her thoughts. Although she did not allow it to show on her face, she was terribly worried.

"He needs good company. Read to him, but let him sleep. Use the good judgment God has given you." Mrs. Roberts took Jane's hands in her own. "He speaks very highly of you Miss Bennet, I trust your discernment. Please stay as long as you can. I have many rooms here…" She caught herself. She was assuming Miss Bennet would want to stay.

Jane answered quickly. "Yes Ma'am, I will stay and help. After I write Andrew's," she blushed, "Dr. Austen's father, I will tell my family of our plans."

Jane set about her assignment. She wrote Mr. Austen an informative letter and prepared it to be sent express.

After a short time, Mrs. Roberts informed her that she could return to the doctor's room.

As she entered his room, she noticed many changes. First off, Andrew seemed to be more comfortable. The curtains were open to reveal the afternoon sunshine. The clutter that had accumulated from the past three days was removed. The room smelled of chicken broth and herbs.

Jane smiled at him. He was half-asleep and seemed content.

"I am sorry that I raised my voice at you," she said quietly, "I do hope you forgive me. I was worried for you, Andrew." She wanted to say so many other things, but now was not the time.

He reached out his hand to her. "Please, sit for a while. I have missed you Dear Jane." Directly after speaking, another coughing fit hit him.

Jane looked at him with worry.

"I will if you promise not to speak!" She teased, although she did mean it.

He agreed and she sat down in a chair next to his bed. Jane took his hand in hers and studied it. It was so large compared to her own. She thought about the responsibilities this hand had to take on in daily life. It was staggering to think that he was liable for so many people, for their health and life. Jane had never really taken the time to deliberate over such things, but he was a lifesaver to so many!

Guilt crept up on her. She had treated him badly.

"Andrew, I want you to know this," she began, "I am so ashamed for my behavior to you. I was very wrong to insult you the way I did. I apologize to you and your father. I should not have interfered"

He started to say something but Jane put a finger to his lips.

"No, you promised not to speak." she said softly. "I could not have so easily opened my heart if I knew that you were going to respond. Allow me this apology, I needed to say it."

He squeezed her hand lightly and closed his eyes. He was tired.

Jane continued to hold his hand as he fell asleep. The wheezing from his chest was getting worst. She eyed the compress that Mrs. Roberts had made. It did not seem to relieve his suffering, but it was too early to tell.

An hour after Jane arrived, Lizzy came to the house. She was informed of Dr. Austen's situation and sent to Jane right away. Lizzy comforted her sister upon her entrance and reassured her of her support.

"Whatever you need for Dr. Austen, ask and I shall be of service." Lizzy could not help but show distress; the situation was serious. Jane suggested she join Mrs. Roberts and help prepare medicine. Lizzy left the room without argument.

During the day, Mr. and Mrs. Roberts were quietly in and out of Andrew's room constantly. They were following his treatment to the letter. Mr. Roberts attempted to appear calm, but his shaking hands were a visible reminder of his disquiet. Jane noticed them and took relief knowing she was not alone in her apprehension.

As nightfall approached and Andrew was still sleeping, Jane joined the family for dinner. It was decided then that all four would take turns caring for him at night.

Lizzy had come to stay at the Roberts residence, and all could not be happier for her aid. One of her duties was to supply soothing music for them after dinner. Andrew preferred Bach and Mrs. Roberts had an amply supply of sheet music. Lizzy did her best and played for hours.

Jane rejoined Andrew after she had finished eating. She wasn't hungry but Mrs. Roberts insisted she eat something to keep her strength up.

Andrew woke a short time later to the lull of Bach's Goldberg Variations aria being played. After his long rest, he appeared to be feeling better. If it were not for the sound of his breathing and the deepness of his cough, Jane would have felt relief. She could not though.

Mr. Roberts was summoned to aid Dr. Austen. Thirty minutes later he returned to the ladies.

"Miss Bennet, Dr. Austen requests that you sit with him for awhile. He tells me your presence improves his well being." Mr. Roberts said grinning. "He also wants me to relay to Miss Elizabeth that her performance is most enjoyable and he has hope that it will continue!"

Jane and Elizabeth turned as Mrs. Roberts let out a cry. "Thank you God!"

After a short discussion on how much broth the doctor consumed, Jane was allowed to proceed upstairs.

Andrew still sounded congested, but his coughing was less extreme.

"Dear Jane, " he whispered, "please have a seat."

She pulled her chair close to him so he would not strain his voice.

"I love you Jane, you must know this."

Jane nodded her head, afraid to say any words for fear of weeping. He still loves me!

"There is a letter for you on the dresser."

Jane went and picked up the letter addressed to her. Another letter was also present, addressed to his father.

"Andrew, I have written your father to advise him of your illness." Jane said as she returned to her chair, her letter in hand. "I hope this meets with your approval. I am certain he would want to know."

"Yes, thank you," he murmured, "will you stay while I fall asleep?"

Jane smiled as she took his hand, "Of course, I have every intention to stay until I can walk you around the park!"

Andrew let out a smile, "I am sure you will, Miss Bennet!" He let out a sigh and closed his eyes. "One of the many reasons I love you so."

Sleep came quickly to him. He was still prone to coughing, but Jane was more confident of his recovery than she had been earlier.

Jane handled the letter he had written her. Slowly, she turned it over and broke the seal. She opened the letter carefully, not wanting to make any noise and attract attention. Everyone was still downstairs and she wanted a moment of privacy to read his letter. It was dated three days earlier.

Dear Jane,

Everything I have ever done in my adult life has been based on the tenet 'To the harm of no one'. I try to follow this principle in all my conduct.

When I accused you of –I cannot repeat my scornful words; I failed you, and myself. Please forgive me. I should have considered my words before I spoke them.

To have you as my wife is my dearest hope. I pray, would you be willing to consider my offer after the mess I have made between us?

I have thought long and hard about the needs of us, and my father. I understand your anger at him. Dear Jane, he is a lonesome man. I can not excuse his behavior, but I know he was desperate at the time. My family is small, and with my not being near, he feels the solitude quite painfully. I had been pondering a return to London before my father's declaration. My only obstacle was I had not your opinion on the matter. I did not know if you would be willing to leave your family and friends for a residence so far away. I would not think of going to London if it were at the expense of your happiness.

I harbor no doubt once my father has been introduced to you; he will love you as so many already do. You have a manner and continence of the best kind. Your loveliness goes beyond your physical appearance; it is embedded in your whole being. Please give Father some time to get to know you. I believe you will find his good to be as I have explained.

I await your response,
Andrew

Jane's hands were shaking as she held the letter. Her mind was flooded with many thoughts and emotions. Did she love him--yes! Would she consider London--she did not know, London was not that far away from Longbourn.

Jane made her decision quickly. She would speak to Andrew in the morning, and no one would know of the circumstance until then. She tucked his letter into the book of poetry she had brought up. Her heart felt both heavy and joyous at once.

She rejoined the others downstairs a while later. She spoke with great optimism about his slightly improved condition. He was coughing less and appeared more comfortable.

"Miss Bennet," Mrs. Roberts cried, "you seem to be the perfect medicine for him. I am so glad you and your sister are here!" She smiled and turned to Elizabeth. "Such wonderful young ladies you both are!"

Jane smiled back at her. Mrs. Roberts was such a gracious woman. Jane had always admired her from afar, and now that she knew her, she could not think of a more competent, lovely person.

It was decided upon in short order that Mr. and Mrs. Roberts would go and check on Dr. Austen. Jane had asked permission to sit with him again after they had finished. She expressed a concern for him if he should wake and need help. After a minute of deliberation, Mr. Roberts pronounced her idea as sound.

Jane stepped outside for a breath of fresh air while the Roberts' were upstairs. As she looked up at the stars, she gave thanks to God for all of His blessings. Andrew was sleeping calmly, and she would soon be by his side, watching over him. She felt both useful and needed. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts were being so kind. Her and Andrew's blessings were great indeed!

Jane returned to Andrew an hour later. Mrs. Roberts left Jane with a pitcher of water, extra blankets, towels and strict instructions. "If Dr. Austen or yourself need anything, wake me at once," she told Jane, "even if you are unsure of the import of the request. No matter is too small! Let Dr. Austen know this if he wakes, dear."

Mr. Roberts had a comfortable upholstered chair moved into the room. Jane positioned it next to Andrew's bed, in a place where she could hold his hand while he slept. The candles lit now numbered two, leaving the room warm and inductive to sleep.

Jane snuggled into her chair and warmed Andrew's cold hand in her warm one. She had no intention to sleep, but even the best intentions go awry. She was asleep in twenty minutes.

Of the dreams she did have that night, one was particularly vivid. She and Andrew were sitting in a field, talking and laughing. He whispered the words "to the harm of no one", and then kissed her softly on the lips. She felt free and content as he wrapped her in his arms.

Sunshine coming through the curtains woke Jane. She was still very sleepy. Everyone in the house went to bed well after 1a.m.. She closed her eyes tight against the invading light.

Blindly, she reached out to find Andrew's hand. It was chilly again. She massaged it to warm it, then she stopped.

Jane opened her eyes and rose slowly from her chair. The blanket that was covering her fell to the floor without notice. Her eyes were glued to his hand-she was afraid to lift them to his face.

"Dear God… no!" she muttered.

Jane's mind went blank as grief gripped her. She tried to move but could not. She wanted to call out for help, but her voice would not make a sound. All she could do was to stand there with Andrew's hand in hers.

Dr. Andrew Austen had died.

Silent tears fell from her eyes. She could not move as time stood still.

Lizzy knocked quietly on Dr. Austen's door and entered. She was bringing a tray of biscuits and tea for Jane. She sat the tray down and turned to her sister.

"Jane, Mrs. Roberts thought you may…" Lizzy stopped and looked at Jane's expression. She knew something was wrong!

"Jane?" she asked cautiously, but the room remained silent.

Lizzy went to Andrew and put her hand on his chest, it did not move. She quickly pulled it back, afraid to touch him longer.

"Oh God!" she cried, "Oh God!" Lizzy was getting hysterical. "Andrew wake up!" she sobbed, "wake up now! You may not leave us…WAKE UP!" Lizzy fell to her knees, grasping the edge of the bed. Her cries were heard downstairs.

Jane did not respond to her sister because she could not hear her.

Jane placed his hand she was holding back on the bed. Without thought, she straightened his covers with great care. His face was so peaceful, she noticed as she looked at him. She gently ran her fingers through his hair, smoothing it down.

Jane took a long look at him and slowly walked out of the room. She did not notice Mrs. Roberts racing up the stairs as she descended. As if she had no will, she walked out the front door. She could not hear of feel. Jane could only walk without purpose.

Jane did not know how long she was outside. Her face was wet with tears, and she might be cold, but she was not sure.

She was standing in front of the house when a carriage pulled up. She stared blankly at it. An older man got out and rushed her.

"Do the Roberts reside here?" He asked anxiously.

Jane nodded her head. She felt as if she was beginning to wake from a dream.

"I need to see my son Andrew! I am Mr. Austen." He exclaimed.

"I am Jane." She responded solemnly.

Mr. Austen looked closely at the girl before him, and his world fell apart.

Jane and Mr. Austen spent several hours alone in Andrew's room that day. They cried and comforted together. Jane gave him his letter from Andrew, and then shared her own.

Jane accompanied Mr. Austen to London with Andrew's body. They stood side by side at his funeral.

For the next two months, she split her days between mornings with Mr. Austen and nights with her Aunt and Uncle. She and Andrew's father became very close as they aided each other in their shared time of grief.

Jane had been forever altered by her experience. Her continence became serene and quiet. Although she lost her playfulness, maturity and genuine concern replaced it. She valued people more, seeking out the good in all.

Jane had learned an important lesson. Never again would she take anyone for granted.

She took Andrew's tenet and made it her own-'to the harm of no one'.

She was left with one true regret--she never gave him her answer to his proposal. A week after she returned to Longbourn, she set about to rectify this error. With pen in hand, she wrote him a letter. Common sense told her that she could not post it, but she wrote it anyway. It felt good to her to pour out her heart on paper. The void she felt since his death was being filled by the act of writing to him.

One month after her arrival home, two small parcels were delivered to Longbourn. One was for Jane and the other Lizzy. Enclosed in each box were a letter and a ruby cross necklace. Mr. Austen sent the gifts in thanks for all they did for Andrew.

The crosses were worn everyday since, as a reminder of the sweet man who touched their lives so deeply.

The clock on the mantle struck ten next to where Jane stood. Her hands shook slightly as she held the letter she had just written. She was about to close a chapter in her life-this would be the last letter to her lost love. She had now achieved a level of happiness she never imagined possible since Andrew's death. She was very happy being Mrs. Bingley and delighted with the direction her life had taken.

She posted the letter in the same manner she had for the past three years. Gently, she placed it in the fire.

The End.