Section I, Next Section
Chapter I
Mr. Darcy had his eyes fixed intently on her face. His complexion paled, his every feature showing his anger at her refusal. Slowly he seemed to compose himself as he made it known to her that he could not believe what she had said. The argument became more heated and the very mention of Wickham's name seemed to inflame Mr. Darcy's wrath.
'His misfortunes!' Darcy screamed at her, turning toward the wall.
'And of your infliction,' she heard herself say.
The argument carried on for a few more minutes, but she could not understand his or her own words. She only noticed the anger in his eyes, or was it hurt. Then she spoke those terrible words:
'You are the last man in the world whom I could ever marry!'
Elizabeth awoke with an excruciating headache. Her sleep had been filled with nightmares of her last meeting with Mr. Darcy.
'That pompous man, how could he presume I would accept his offer of marriage,' she mused while stretching.
Stifling a yawn she contemplated her options for the morning. Breakfast did not appeal to her, but a brisk walk did.
'I need air, no food just air,' she whispered to herself.
Dressing quickly, she hurried downstairs to join the others. Charlotte, Mr. Collins and Maria were all sitting at the breakfast table. Mr. Collins looked up at Lizzy and smiled, as best he could with it stuffed full of sausages. Maria seemed to be having a hard time digesting her breakfast also, which made Elizabeth's morning walk seem even more palatable.
'Lizzy, do please sit down and have something to eat, Charlotte beckoned, ' you do look unwell, did you not sleep well?'
Elizabeth smiled at Charlotte and replied, 'I believe I have just been indoors too much, I need fresh air that's all.'
Making her excuses and promising not to be gone too long, she hurried on her way to enjoy the delights of the countryside. She soon came to the gate of the park and stopped for a moment to decide whether or not to enter. Not wanting to confront Mr. Darcy so soon after their last ill-fated meeting, she continued on down the turnpike. After walking a considerable distance a small weathered gate caught her eye. Examining it closely she came to the conclusion that although it was a bit rusty, it was still serviceable. Standing at the gate for some time she pondered whether or not to enter.
'Why not! Why should I put aside my own pleasure for him, he is nothing to me, certainly not the last man on earth,' finishing her reverie she pushed the gate open and proceeded to enjoy her walk.
After strolling for ten minutes or so in a sedate fashion, she felt the urge for a short run. Glancing around first, to discern if anyone was watching, she hiked up her skirt slightly and ran a short distance down the path. As she stopped to catch her breath, she suddenly felt a cold chill run down her body, as if she sensed danger. Looking around she chastised herself,
'Oh, Lizzy you are just being paranoid, no one is spying on you.'
Elizabeth loved walking in the park around Rosings; it was peaceful and serene, which was more than she could say for anywhere else around it. It surprised her that Lady Catherine had not had the entire park landscaped; but then maybe even the great Lady herself could see the benefit of letting nature shape itself. Lizzy laughed at the thought of Lady Catherine telling nature how to do it's own work,
'Yes, she would have the nerve to even dictate to nature.'
About the time she was deciding to turn back in order not to be late getting back, she spied a gentleman, with his back to her, directly in her path. Fearing it was Mr. Darcy she turned to make her way back to the parsonage. The gentleman, upon hearing a twig snap, turned and spotting Miss Bennet called out to her.
'Miss Bennet'
Elizabeth, on hearing her name, stopped and slowly turned around to face the direction in which her name was called. Mr. Darcy walked slowly towards her, while holding a letter out to her. Elizabeth took the letter from his hand as he voiced his request to her.
'Miss Bennet, would you do me the honour of reading this letter.'
Having fulfilled his obligation, he bowed and quickly walked away, leaving her somewhat flustered.
Gazing down at the letter she noticed her name written elegantly across the front.
Turning it over she fingered the seal lightly before breaking it, then opening the letter. Perceiving that the pages appeared to be quite full, she looked around for a place to sit while perusing it. Noticing a makeshift bench, fashioned from a stump of a tree, she sat down and began reading her letter.
Charlotte was eagerly looking out her sitting room window wondering what had become of Lizzy. Earlier, while Lizzy was out, Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam had paid their respects before journeying to London. It seemed to Charlotte that Mr. Darcy had not seemed surprised at Lizzy's absence. The Colonel, on the other hand, had stayed for nearly an hour after Darcy had left, but to no avail. Colonel Fitzwilliam had left, but sending his best wishes to Miss Bennet along with his regret at not having been able to take leave of her in person. Now it was nearly time to go to tea at Rosings and Lizzy was not back.
'Lizzy is so late, where can she be,' she said turning to Maria, 'it is not like Lizzy to keep us waiting, she knows how Mr. Collins will be, not to mention Lady Catherine.'
Maria did not answer her sister, for she too knew Lizzy was not the kind to inconvenience anyone, not like her younger sisters. Without warning Mr. Collins entered the room as he proclaimed in a loud voice,
'Mrs. Collins, we must leave at once. Lady Catherine will be agitated if we are late. I do not understand how Cousin Elizabeth could be so neglectful of the obligation she has to her ladyship to be on time.'
'Mr. Collins, you and Maria go on to Rosings, explain to Lady Catherine that Elizabeth was delayed. When Lizzy returns I will hasten her to make as little changes to her person as necessary, and we will directly go to Rosings. Apologize to her ladyship, as only you can and leave the rest to me.'
'Nonetheless Mrs. Collins, I feel you should accompany us now, indeed I insist upon it! Lady Catherine will not be put out by all of us, and when cousin Elizabeth returns, Daisy can tell her to remain here and that we have made her excuses to Lady Catherine.'
Charlotte was beside herself. She could not believe what Mr. Collins was suggesting. To leave without Lizzy, he was her own cousin, did he really expect her to go drink tea while Lizzy was missing. Charlotte took a deep breath then looking Mr. Collins straight in the eye, very calmly stated,
'No! Lizzy has not returned yet and I will not leave this parsonage until she does. Mr. Collins, William, Lizzy is not the sort of girl to say she will return shortly and then not return at all. You will give my apologies to Lady Catherine.'
Mr. Collins could not believe his ears, had Charlotte actually told him no, not since their wedding night at Lucas lodge had she said that word to him.
'Very well my dear, come Maria we do not want to keep Lady Catherine waiting.'
Maria grabbed her hat and coat and ran after Mr. Collins, who had already fled the parsonage in somewhat of a stupor.
'Charlotte, said no!'
Charlotte continued to watch for Lizzy out the window of her small sitting room. She had totally lost track of the time when she was interrupted by Daisy, her housemaid, as she came in to light the candles.
'Oh, I beg your pardon ma'am, I thought you had all gone to tea, so I came in to light the candles for your return.'
'Is it that late?' Charlotte anxiously inquired.
'Yes, ma'am,' Daisy replied as she lit the last candle.
Grabbing her cloak from the hall, Charlotte called for Dawkins and Daisy. As the servants appeared she instructed Daisy,
'Tell Mr. Collins, when he returns, that I have taken Dawkins with me to search for Miss Bennet, we will return before it gets dark hopefully.'
'Yes, ma'am.'
'Dawkins, grab a torch; it may get dark before we return. Miss Bennet has not returned from her walk and I fear she has met with a mishap!'
Dawkins looked at his mistress' worried face and replied, 'Yes, ma'am at once'
The sky was starting to darken considerably as their search took them deeper into the park. Charlotte began to despair at ever finding Lizzy. Suddenly she spied something white by a makeshift bench, running to where it lay she grabbed it up and looked at it with the aid of the torch Dawkins held. Turning the pages over she noticed it was an elegantly written letter, addressed to
Chapter II
Be not alarmed, Madam, on receiving this letter, by the apprehension of its containing any repetition of those sentiments, or renewal of those offers, which were last night so disgusting to you.
After having read the first line of the letter Elizabeth's curiosity got the better of her. She devoured the rest of the letter, only stopping now and then to make observations on its contents. She began to weigh her actions, those of the writer and others mentioned in the epistle with a new more-enlightened mind. She realized now Wickham had deceived her, for what purpose she could only surmise.
'Oh, how could I have been so deceived by him, he seemed so reluctant to divulge the evil that Mr. Darcy had done to him, but yet he did divulge it so readily. He is evil incarnate.'
As she was going over the letter in her mind she heard a noise behind her, thinking it might be someone sent to find her she put the letter down by her side. Without warning a cloth was placed over her nose and she felt muscular arms seize her. A peculiar scent invaded her nostrils as she felt her body going limp; her mind seemed befuddled as if in a dream. Strange voices invaded her mind, as she seemed to float away from reality.
'I got her sir, 'an nary a hair out of place.'
'Very well, here's the quid I promised you and you'll get the rest when she is safely delivered to...'
These were the last words Elizabeth caught before losing consciousness.
Lizzy's eyes felt as if tiny weights had been attached to her lashes. She found it difficult to open them, even a tiny bit. Her head ached more so than it had that morning when she as she had left for her walk.
'My walk, where am I? The last thing I remember, that horrid, putrid smell'
Feeling around in the dark, she realized she was lying in something, but what. She moved her arms against the sides and top of the enclosure, it was soft, satiny….
'Oh, my god I'm in a coffin'
Her mind began to reel to and fro..
'Where, Who, Why!' she tried to deduce what had happened.
'I remember going for my walk, meeting Mr. Darcy, reading his letter, then that smell…Someone grabbed me, deliver me to Where? Oh, Father, Jane will I ever see you again?'
The drug having finally worn off, Elizabeth was able to open her eyes wider. A small thin line of light came in from several minute holes bored into her prison. Directly over her head she could see a small panel; which must open, for light was trying to seep in around the edge of it. Elizabeth tried to push up on the lid of the coffin, but to no avail, it would not budge. Pounding on the lid she cried out
'Please, whoever you are let me out of here!'
A strange woman's voice answered her back laughing, 'No, no my pet you cannot be released from your cell as yet.'
The small panel slid back and was replaced by a peering pair of blue eyes. Elizabeth tried to poke at them, but the panel only slid back as the owner of the eyes maniacally laughed. All at once Elizabeth heard the sound of heavy footsteps enter the room. Soft voices carried on a short conversation, then the man; at least she thought it was a man, left again. The panel slid open again as the woman greeted her,
'Good morning Miss Bennet, please excuse my rude behavior a moment ago. I hope your sleep was restful…but what else could it be in such a bed. Now please relax, no harm will come to you as long as you do not resist us. Try to escape, and we will no longer protect you. I do hope you understand.'
'Please, release me; I can be of no use to you. My family is not a wealthy one. I am sure you have made a terrible mistake. I was only visiting the parsonage at Hunsford. I have no connection to the family at Rosings. You have made a terrible mistake….'
Stopping short in her plea, she surmised 'They know me.'
Tears started flowing from the corners of her eyes as she contemplated her predicament.
As the tiny panel was slid back into place her keeper said tauntingly, 'We know who you are Miss Bennet, be patient you will know all soon enough.'
The sounds of a rustling dress and soft footsteps followed by a door closing with a heavy thud, informed her that her keeper had left her all alone. She tried to push the lid of her prison open, once again, but she soon became aware that she was firmly encased. The noisome odor that had overcome her in the park lingered around her, although it seemed to have no effect now. Reaching for her cross she realized it was gone. She silently prayed that somehow someone would find her.
'But how will they, Oh, why me, why me….'
Was the last thought she had as she drifted off to sleep.
Chapter III
On arriving back at the parsonage, Mr. Collins was not pleased to find his wife had gone in search of Elizabeth. Maria had excused herself quickly, after realizing her brother-in-law's mood, retiring to her room. The good reverend paced back and forth by the front door in anticipation of his wife's return. Before entering the house, Charlotte took a deep breath and readied herself for her husband's disapprobation. Mr. Collins' abject disapproval of her actions was noticeable, even before he opened his mouth to speak.
'Mrs. Collins, Charlotte, I am grieved at your total lack of feeling. Did you not consider Lady Catherine's wishes before you left to find Miss Bennet? You should have at once came to Rosings, and then, if Cousin Elizabeth was not back, we could have sent Dawkins to fetch her back. Where is Cousin Elizabeth? I suppose you found her at some neighbors home visiting, and she wished to stay longer.'
Charlotte stood stunned, surely her husband could not be so heartless, did he not even notice her agitation. Pushing the letter she had found into her pocket, she lowered her eyes and quietly said,
'Husband, your cousin and my dearest friend is missing. She is not at any of the neighbors, she is not in the park, she has vanished. Now if you think it is as important to search for a missing person, as it is to drink tea with Lady Catherine, I am sorry. But I do not feel I have to stand here and explain my actions to you, when there are things that need to be done. If you'll excuse me, I have a letter to write to Longbourn.'
Having said this, Charlotte walked into the sitting room and sitting at her desk began to write to Mr. Bennet. Charlotte was unsure what to tell Elizabeth's father, but she knew it had to be done. After finishing the letter, which was short and to the point, she gave it to Dawkins instructing him to send it express.
Supper passed very quietly, in the little parsonage. Neither Mr. or Mrs. Collins uttered a word; Maria was confused and thought it better not to inquire as to the problem. Finishing his plate, Mr. Collins informed his wife that he would be retiring early, as he had many calls to make the next day. Charlotte was only too happy to hear this, as she still had another letter to write. As the ladies sat in the sitting room, after dining, Maria looked shyly at Charlotte, then suddenly started to whimper. Charlotte put her arms around her sister and tried to soothe her.
'Hush dear it is all right, married people have these little spats from time to time, it will be okay.'
'It is not that, it is Lizzy, Where is she? I overheard Dawkins tell Daisy that Elizabeth was missing, Why did you not tell me, I thought she was only delayed; that is what Mr. Collins kept telling me.'
Charlotte held her sister close, as she too wondered where Lizzy was. After Charlotte had calmed Maria down, she sent her off to bed. Charlotte pulled the letter out of her pocket and looked once again at the handwriting. Glancing at it only enough to discern whom the author of it was, she was both surprised and delighted with the answer. She had already decided to write to Mr. Darcy for his help before she knew he had written the letter. She knew it had been presumptive of her, but she knew if anyone could help find Lizzy that it would be Mr. Darcy. Sitting down at her desk she once again took out pen and paper and wrote.
Dear Mr. Darcy,Please pardon my boldness in writing to you. I have observed you over the past few weeks and have noticed you seem to have a regard for my friend Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I am at a loss as to how to put this, but Elizabeth is missing. As I told you when came to take your leave, she had gone for a walk. But what you do not know is she never returned from her walk. I went in search of her later, but she was nowhere to be found. I did however find a letter, addressed to her, written by you. Be not alarmed, I did not read the letter, I merely glanced at the closing signature, nor have I disclosed its existence to anyone else. I beg you please, if you can, could you please come here at once and help in the search. Please bring the Colonel with you too, as I can use all the help that is available. I have written Mr. Bennet, and I am sure he will go directly to the Gardiner's home in Gracechurch Street, to gain their assistance. Please, please help me, I am afraid for her, and I have no one here to aid me in my search.
Yours hopefully,
Mrs. Charlotte Collins
Folding and sealing the letter, she jotted down the directions as best she could remember from overheard conversations. 'Thank Goodness for Lady Catherine's exuberance,' she thought to herself as she wrote. When she had finally finished she called for Dawkins and instructed him to send it express. Dawkins, knowing Mr. Collins frugality, wondered what would happen when he found two expresses had been sent, but then knowing the concern of his Mistress about her friend he was more than willing to do her bidding, no matter what the consequences.
'Bang, Bang, Bang!!!'
The incessant pounding on the outer door did not awaken Mr. Darcy, indeed he was not sleeping. His mind was full of turmoil, he knew he would not rest until she was out of his system. Now as he waited for his man to inform him of whatever, or whoever was at his door at this time of night, or was it morning, he still could only think of her fine eyes, and how they had been brightened by exercise the last time he had seen her, in the park at Rosings. A light rap was heard on the door, then Jarvis entered with a letter for his master. Darcy thanked his man, then looking at the letter he realized it was written in a feminine hand. Quickly breaking the seal he consumed the intelligence it relayed.
'What! No! Lizzy!'
The thunderous banging at their door had awakened the Bennet household. Mr. Bennet was baffled at receiving an express from the Collinses opened the letter fearing something had happened to his Lizzy. As he read the letter the color drained from his face. Knowing his wife's nervous nature, and not wanting to alarm anyone, he regained some of his composure and addressed the group gawking at him.
'I am sorry, but it seems an investment of mine is in trouble. I must go without delay to London to see to it. Do not be worried or alarmed, it may yet be recovered. I am sure it will with my brother Gardiner's help, it will be recovered.'
Mr. Bennet then sent his family back to bed, kissed his wife and prepared to travel to London. As he waited for the coach to be brought around, he sat in his library with his face buried in his hands and wept.
'Lizzy, my own sweet girl, Where are you?'
Soon he found himself seated in his coach on the way to the Gardiner house in Gracechurch Street. He hoped and prayed that Mrs. Collins was mistaken, and Lizzy would show up before he and Mr. Gardiner arrived in Hunsford.
Darcy jumped to his feet, then ran up the stairs taking them two at a time. Finding himself at his cousin's room he bounded in, and started shaking his cousin by the shoulders.
'Fitzwilliam, get up we must go to Hunsford at once!'
'What! Darcy, have you lost your mind? Another trip to Aunt Catherine's?'
'No, to Hunsford and the parsonage, I received an express from Mrs. Collins, not ten minutes ago, it seems Miss Bennet is missing'
'Good God no!'
'Yes, so I intend to go help in recovering her, with your help that is.'
Darcy had acquainted his cousin with the details of his dealings with Miss Bennet on the ride to London, after leaving Rosings. So the colonel was not surprised at Darcy's resolve to help find the missing lady. He also had a reason to want to go back to Hunsford, but his problem would have to wait. The pair made plans to leave as soon as the coach could be readied. As they were getting ready to board the coach, Mr. Bingley appeared on Darcy's step.
'Why, Darcy I thought you had just returned?'
'Bingley, I did but something has come up and I must leave for Hunsford at once.'
Bingley, not knowing of what had taken place at Hunsford was puzzled. Darcy seeing this took his friend aside and related to him Miss Bennet's plight. Then he did something that surprised his friend a great deal, he informed him of Miss Jane Bennet's presence in town, and told him to go to her.
'Darcy, are you sure?'
'Yes, I was wrong, Miss Bennet is indeed worthy of you, and she loves you.'
'Loves me?'
'Bingley, I don't have time to go into it, but I have it on good authority that she indeed loves you, and she will need you now more than ever, go, go to her before it's too late.'
Bingley did not need any more convincing and he left at once for Gracechurch Street and his Jane. Colonel Fitzwilliam glanced at his cousin from the corner of his eye, and noticed a single tear on Darcy's cheek.
'At least Bingley will have his Miss Bennet, even if I am never to have mine.'
Chapter IV
Jane Bennet sat in a window seat, on the second floor, of the house on Gracechurch Street. It afforded her of a good view of the comings and goings of the household. She so enjoyed watching the various vendors peddling their wares. Her aunt's housemaid was busy sweeping off the stoop, when a strange carriage pulled up to the door. Not waiting to see the occupants of the carriage disembark, Jane left her seat and hurried to inform her aunt of company.
Charles Bingley unsuccessfully tried to pull his thoughts together before alighting from the carriage. He had attempted to plan what he wanted to say to Miss Bennet, when he finally met her again, but his mind would not slow down. Should he tell her he loves her or first ask about her family, his mind was in a muddle as to what to do. As he rose from his seat to leave the carriage he nearly tripped over his own feet. Muttering under his breath he chastised himself,
'Calm down old man, you don't want to make Jane a widow before you've asked her to marry you.'
Laughing at his own jumbled nerves, he smiled to himself and proceeded to the door. Taking in his surroundings he found the neighborhood to be quite pleasant. Trees lined the street and several houses had flower beds lining the walk. It was of all delights charming, charming indeed. He could not fathom, why people should think this an unsuitable neighborhood to visit. It was not as grand as some, but then his house was not as grand as Darcy's was it? Approaching the door, he was greeted by the Gardiner's housemaid Alice, who thinking he had come on business inquired,
'Good morning sir, may I ask if you are expected?'
'No, I am an acquaintance of Miss Bennet's. Would you be so kind as to tell her I have come to see her.'
Alice stood for a moment then timidly asked; 'May I ask your name sir?'
'Oh, please forgive me, tell her it is Charles Bingley.'
'Thank you sir, would you please come in?'
Mr. Bingley removed his hat as he entered the Gardiner's' home. He was at once taken with its elegance. It seemed a very warm and comfortable home, but yet there was a sense of stateliness. Hearing footsteps approaching the room, Charles stood up as a very elegant looking woman entered the room followed by Miss Bennet.
'Mr. Bingley, may I introduce to you my Aunt Gardiner,' Jane said as she blushed slightly.
Mr. Bingley greeted Mrs. Gardiner, but his eyes were never far from Jane's countenance. After making the usual inquiries of health, relatives and such Mr. Bingley inquired,
'Mrs. Gardiner, may I ask is Mr. Gardiner at home?'
'Why yes he is,' Mrs. Gardiner replied somewhat puzzled, 'he is going over some accounts in his study, why don't you wait here with Jane and I'll go ask him to join us.'
'Thank you please, I would like to talk to all of you together if I could.'
Not quite sure of why Mr. Bingley wanted to talk to them, Mrs. Gardiner could only surmise it was about Jane. Smiling she excused herself and left in search of her husband. After her aunt had left the room Charles apologized for not having called on her sooner. He explained how his sisters had not informed him of her presence in London, blaming it on an oversight. Jane soon let him know that she held no ill feelings, and that she was only happy that the mistake had been rectified. The young couple having been left alone for several minutes was finally able to undo all the wrongs done to them. Mr. Bingley found he had not only the words, but also the resoluteness to finally ask for Miss Bennet's hand. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were pleasantly surprised, when they were informed of the engagement.
'I am sure your parents will find no reason not to give their consent to your union,' Mr. Gardiner reassured the couple.
'Yes, I am sure that Fanny will be nervously delighted,' laughed Mrs. Gardiner.
Bingley smiled as he realized this must be where Miss Elizabeth gets her sense of humor. Suddenly it dawned on Bingley the other reason for his visit, but before he could say anything an unannounced guest entered the room.
'Father!' Jane cried in delight.
Mr. Bennet looked utterly dejected. Jane had not noticed how her father looked at first, as she was still enjoying her own new found happiness. His face was sullen and reflected the turmoil his mind had endured on the long ride from Longbourn. Suddenly looking into his eyes, the sadness he felt became clear to all in the room.
'Father, why what is the matter?'
'I have urgent business I must discuss with your uncle, dear Jane, that is all.'
Mr. Bingley surmising what Mr. Bennet's business must be said,
'Please sit down sir, before you discuss this business I think you should know that I have asked Jane to be my wife, and I wish to ask you for your blessing.'
'Mr. Bingley, of course you have my blessing, but this business can not be put off a second longer.'
'Mr. Bennet, I feel you should know I already know what your business is. A certain friend of mine received an express from Mrs. Collins entreating his help in recovering something very dear to her.'
'I cannot believe this, Charlotte is more foolish than I ever suspected.'
Mr. Bingley clearing his throat continued, 'Sir, I feel that Jane should know this is about.'
Motioning to the sofa he replied, 'Yes, of course you are right Bingley, shall we all sit down.'
Mr. Bennet then related the dilemma to the group. Tears ran down her eyes as her father told of her favorite sister's disappearance. Jane sat stunned she could not fathom the thought of never seeing Lizzy again.
'No! It cannot be….' Bingley sensing Jane's distress gathered her into his arms as she fainted.
Chapter V
Lizzy felt herself being lifted up by strong masculine arms. It was if she were floating in a dream, yet she knew it was real. Drowsiness still had a firm grip on her mind and body; so much that she could not force her eyes open. A warm presence had wrapped her up in their arms, yet she shivered. Resting her head for a moment on the chest of her conveyor, a coarse woolen garment brushed against her cheek.
'Wool' she mused.
After only a few steps, her conveyor lowered her onto a pallet of hay. She knew it was hay, not straw, for she could smell the aroma of the freshly cut sprigs through the burlap. Being finally able to move her limbs was extremely gratifying, as they had grown stiff from forced inactivity. As her body gave in to sleep once more she heard muffled voices in the room.
'When she awakes make sure she eats something, and give her some of the special tea I brought. It will help aide us in keeping her quiet, and the less she knows the safer she will remain.'
'Whatever you say, Wicky,' a soft female voice responded.
'I don't know what he wants to protect you for, but if he wants you safe from that mad woman, I'll help him,' the woman whispered under her breath.
'Who are you?' she cried out, 'What do you want from me?'
Suddenly through the mist she perceived a solitary figure. As she moved closer to the figure it seemed to move away. Peering through the fog she attempted ascertain if it was someone she knew. The fog diminished for a moment, but only long enough for her to see that it was a gentleman standing with his back toward her. Frustration set in as she tried to gain his attention. Finally as recognition set in, Lizzy could not believe her eyes, it was Mr. Darcy. Relief washed over her entire being as she began to call out to him,
'Mr. Darcy, Mr. Darcy,'
But it was of no avail; he would not answer her. Lizzy knew he was her only chance, the only way she would leave this fog. Gathering all her strength she called out again,
'Mr. Darcy' Elizabeth stood shivering in a field of freshly mowed hay. It seemed to be quite a foggy morning. Strolling through the field she could hear voices in the distance, but she could not make out whom they belonged to. Looking around about her, she could not see anyone. It seemed as if she were alone in the world. Yet she could hear the voices.
'Fitzwilliam,' Elizabeth mumbled in her sleep.
'So that is why Wicky is so eager to keep you alive,' Mrs. Younge mused as she heard Elizabeth call out to her former employer, 'you are his ticket to revenge over Darcy.'
George Wickham had made his way into Rosings many times before. As a boy he had on a special occasion, as a treat, accompanied Mr. Darcy and his son on a visit to the place. Anne had been exceedingly helpful in showing him around the great house, while his benefactor's son had ignored him. Wickham smiled as he held the torch aloft in the dark passage.
'I bet Anne doesn't remember showing this to me,' he laughed to himself.
Moving cautiously he marveled at how the passages had been constructed throughout the great house. Slowly edging his way through the passage, he noticed how clean it seemed, not even one cobweb was to be seen. He recalled how Anne had crept into his room through a hidden passage all those many years ago.
'Hush, it is only me Georgie''Miss Anne, where did you come from?'
'Rosings has many secrets, would you like to know one of them?'
'Sure!'
'My father is the only other person who knows of these passages. He showed them to me late one night coming to my room, just as I have to yours. It is a secret that only we share; my father and I, now you share in the secret too.'
Wickham smirked as he remembered Anne showing him the way into the family crypt. Several nights during that visit long ago, they would sneak to the crypt to play among the dead. Anne would sit next to her father's vault and chat with him, as if they were carrying on a conversation. Wickham recalled how he felt sorry for Fitzwilliam, to have an insane wife. But not now, no, he relished the thought of the great Fitzwilliam Darcy saddled with Anne, sad, crazy Anne.
Stretching her arms over her head, Elizabeth, awoke from her sleep startled. Realizing that she was no longer in that awful coffin, she sat up and looked about her. In the middle of the room sat the coffin.
'No, it was not a dream,' she sighed.
Taking in her surroundings, she spotted a chamber pot next to the bed. Next to the far wall stood a small table, with a pitcher and wash basin on it. Finding her legs not very steady and her head light she lay back down for a moment. Hearing a scraping sound coming from the other side of the room, she was startled when a door opened, as if from nowhere. A woman of about thirty-five or forty entered the room carrying a tray. Sitting it down on the pallet, next to Lizzy, she smiled and instructed her to eat.
'When you finish, feel free to freshen up - you'll find water in the pitcher on the table,' pausing to see if Lizzy comprehended her she continued, 'I do hope you find your accommodations comfortable.'
Laughing, she walked back out the door and sealed it shut, once again.
Feeling quite hungry, she turned her attention to the tray. There sat two pieces of dry toast and a cold cup of tea. Lizzy picked up the toast and eagerly consumed it. It was not much, but it did help feign off the hunger she had felt for the past two days. Timidly picking up the cup of tea, she wondered if she should drink it,
'What if it contains a sleeping draught?' she pondered.
Placing the cup back on the tray, she gingerly lifted her body from her makeshift bed. Holding onto the wall for support she walked slowly to the table, in order to refresh herself. Lifting the pitcher, she couldn't help noticing how weak she felt, it took most of her strength to pour a small amount of water into the bowl, before placing the pitcher on the floor. Splashing her face with the most welcome liquid, she let it settle on her lips and took in its moisture. Tearing off a small piece of her gown she dipped it into the pitcher, then taking the cloth she extorted droplets of water from it into her mouth. Making her way back to the pallet she had been lying on, she spied the chamber pot beside it. Feeling she might not have another chance to ease her suffering, she took full advantage of the pot. Then procuring the teacup, she poured its contents into the chamber pot, before lying back down to wait her captors next move.
Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam wasted no time traveling to Hunsford. Stopping first at the parsonage, Mr. Darcy informed Mrs. Collins of his arrival. Charlotte had been sitting by the window in her small sitting room to be able to spy anyone's arrival. She had been quite relieved on seeing Mr. Darcy and the Colonel arrive. Returning Elizabeth's letter to Mr. Darcy she assured him that she had not read the letter,
'Mr. Darcy, I want to assure you that I only glanced at the signature after finding that the letter had been addressed to Lizzy. I would not presume to intrude on anything you had to say to my friend, therefore I feel that you had best keep it in your possession, until the time it can be returned to the recipient.'
Letting out a sigh of relief, Mr. Darcy took the letter back into his possession. After reassuring Mrs. Collins that he would not rest until Miss Bennet was found, he took his leave and continued on to Rosings.
Lady Catherine De Bourgh was exceedingly surprised when her nephews entered the room.
'Darcy, Fitzwilliam! Why are you back so soon?
'We heard of Miss Bennet's disappearance and came to aid in the search,' explained the Colonel.
'Miss Bennet! Why Mr. Collins has assured me that his wife is over reacting, he says his cousin can be quite obstinate and head strong, when she makes up her mind to do something. He is quite sure she is only visiting a new acquaintance.'
'Aunt, Mrs. Collins knows of no such visit. She is beside herself with worry over her friend's disappearance. Seeing that she and Miss Bennet have a life-long friendship, I feel she would know her friend better than Mr. Collins.'
Lady Catherine was quite put out by Darcy's adamant refusal to withdraw from the search. Irritated at Mrs. Collins' boldness in asking her nephew, her own nephew Mr. Darcy for aid, she sent a note informing the Collinses that their presence at tea would no longer be necessary. Realizing that her nephew was as stubborn as she was, Lady Catherine finally acquiesced to letting her men search the park for Miss Bennet.
Having no luck in finding Miss Bennet as darkness descended on Rosings, the search was called off until the morrow. Darcy and Fitzwilliam joined their aunt and cousin Anne for a light supper, as no one seemed to have much of an appetite, except surprisingly for Anne. After the ladies had excused themselves, Colonel Fitzwilliam also asked to be excused. Darcy not wishing to sit alone went in to join the ladies. Noticing Anne was alone in the room, Darcy's first instinct was to turn and leave before he was noticed. Unfortunately, Anne had turned around just as he was beginning to leave the room. Darcy, who had paid little attention to Anne during the course of the evening, was immediately drawn to a familiar object around her neck. Quickly crossing the room, where his cousin stood smiling sickly at him, he reached out and grasping the small garnet cross, ripped it from her neck.
With anger flashing in his eyes he shouted at his stunned cousin, 'Where did you get this!'
'It is mine,' she stammered.
Darcy glancing at the small cross in his hand noticed two small letters etched into the stone.
Glaring at his cousin he asked, 'When did your initials become E.B.!'
Anne stood up straight and haughty, with a look of insanity in her eyes. Boldly proclaiming her ultimatum in a stern voice she sneered,
'If you value Miss Bennet's life you'll marry me!'
Chapter VI
Darcy could not believe what he was hearing. Surely Anne was not serious. Clutching Elizabeth's cross in his hand he unleashed his fury on Anne.
'Where is she!' he shouted.
'Miss Bennet is safe, for now,' his cousin coldly replied.
Placing the cross in his vest pocket, he lurched toward his cousin grabbing her tightly by the arms. Shaking her violently he demanded yet again,
'Where is she!'
As the color drained from Anne's face it was replaced by an icy glare; which expressed the anger she felt at being treated thusly. After taking a deep breath she replied without emotion,
' She will remain safe for as long as I say, but if anything happens to me, your Miss Bennet will die.'
Darcy relaxed his grip on his cousin as her words took effect.
'My Miss Bennet?' he pondered, 'how could Anne know how I feel about Elizabeth?'
'Anne, what are you talking about? This is insane, you must see that? Come now cousin, tell me where Miss Bennet is so she may return to her family, before it is too late.'
'No, the only way Miss Bennet will be returned to her family is for you to consent to marry me,' pausing she continued, 'no, not merely to consent to marry me, but to wed me within a fortnight.'
Totally taken a back by his cousins' demand he pondered her demand, 'Marry Anne in order to save Elizabeth, my God.'
'Are you crazy?!'
'Do not ever call me that!' Anne shrieked, then as if nothing had happened she smiled at Darcy and whispering said, 'You are the only one who can save Miss Bennet,' then abruptly speaking up she announced, ' I am willing to join with you in marriage, and as my mother wishes for this union, I am sure there will be no objections from her.'
Smiling to herself as she looked over Darcy's shoulder she leaned into her cousin and planted a kiss full on his lips. Darcy, startled by this action pushed her away just as he heard a voice behind him proclaim,
'Anne, Darcy you have made me the happiest of mothers.'
Lady Catherine crossed the room and embracing first Darcy then her daughter began to weep, ' Your mother would be so happy to see that you have finally come to your senses and decided to marry Anne.'
At a loss as to what to say or do, he excused himself from the room. As he walked out the door of the sitting room a cold shiver ran up his back. There was nothing else he could do, he was trapped with no way out, he would marry Anne to save Elizabeth. A lone tear hung from the corner of his eye as he climbed the staircase to his bedchamber. Suddenly a glimmer of hope rang in his head, 'Fitzwilliam! Yes he can help me find a way out,' as he headed toward his cousins bedchamber.
George Wickham arrived at the end of the passage, on the main floor. To the right he could see a staircase which led up to the next floor of Rosings. Moving the torch closer to the wall, in order to obtain a better view, he found what he was looking for, a recessed handle that had been carved into what appeared to be a solid stone wall. Cautiously grasping the handle he gave it a firm pull, to his utter amazement nothing happened, it would not budge.
'Damn, I know this is the door!' he exclaimed to himself.
Looking around for a place to rest the torch, he noticed a sconce on the wall. Inserting the torch in its resting-place he was now able to examine the door unencumbered. Feeling around for an opening, he slid his hand along a narrow aperture in the wall. Following the gap along a straight line he met with the end of the passage. Trailing down he found that the aperture seemed to continue down the wall as well. Grabbing the torch from its holder, he held it close to the wall in order to examine it more closely. The realization of the doors true nature came over him like a wave,
'Unbelievable, this door doesn't open out or in, it slides into the wall, no wonder I could not budge it.'
Replacing the torch, in its holder, he grasped the handle and managed to slide it into the opening. Behind the door stood a bookcase; at least Wickham assumed it was a bookcase. While looking for a way to move the impediment in front of him, he heard the door, of the room beyond, open. Quickly snuffing out his torch, least a glimmer of its light should betray him; he stood silently listening to the occupant's movements. Wickham could hear objects being tossed across the room with great animosity.
'Crazy, he called me crazy!' an agitated female voice cried out.
The air, in the passage, seemed to take on a chill as Wickham realized who the occupant of the room was. 'Anne,' he thought to himself. Leaning closer to the bookcase, he strained to overhear anymore of her deranged outburst.
'I will make him pay for his cruelty, we will wed, but Miss Bennet will die. Yes! I said I'd return her to her family, but I did not say how. This will teach him to infer that I am unstable.'
Suddenly a maniacal laugh range out as Miss De Bourgh exited the room. Wickham, having heard the door closed resumed his earlier activity. Carefully exploring around the case with his hand he managed to feel a small rope; tugging on it the case swung out enabling him to enter the room. Taking in the disarray of the room, books tossed here and there, Wickham carefully made his way to the other side of the room. Examining the other cases scrupulously, he found what he was seeking. Removing five books from the shelf, he pushed on the back of the case exposing a small compartment. Reaching into the compartment he pulled out a small wooden box. Opening the box he retrieved some documents from inside it, substituting papers from his coat pocket. Smiling to himself he quickly put the original documents in his vest pocket, and replacing the box to its compartment, he concealed it as before placing four books from the floor in front of it.
After recalling Anne's threat to Miss Bennet's welfare, Wickham knew what he must do, hurrying from the room he made his way out of Rosings the same way he had entered.
Finally tracking down the colonel, coming up the drive, Darcy enlightened him on what had occurred with Anne. Fitzwilliam listened intently while his cousin related the facts of Miss Bennet's disappearance, his finding her cross around Anne's neck, and the final insult of having to chose to marry Anne to save Miss Bennet.
'My God man! What ever are you going to do?' Colonel Fitzwilliam asked excitedly.
Darcy calmly replied, 'Marry Anne.' Looking his cousin in the eye said adamantly, ' I would endure the fires of hell, in order to save Elizabeth.'
On hearing this Colonel Fitzwilliam mused, 'Yes, I know what you mean. When you love someone you will do anything to save her from evil.'
Turning around the two gentlemen made their way back to Rosings, each with thoughts of someone special plaguing them.
Elizabeth had been quietly resting on her pallet when she heard the crypt door begin to open. Not wishing her captors to realize she was awake and alert, she feigned sleep.
'Good she drank the tea,' the male voice, whom she finally was able to discern for sure as belonging to Wickham, breathed a sigh of relief.
Gathering her up in his arms he headed for the door while quickly instructing his accomplice to follow.
'Quickly now we must leave here immediately.'
'Why?'
'Don't ask questions, Mrs. Younge, we haven't the time. I have a coach waiting for us.'
'Coach, what coach?'
'The one Graves is fetching to the road on the other side of the wood as we speak, now enough questions, make haste.'
'Surely Wickham would not hurt me, he could have already done so,' Elizabeth pondered, as she felt herself being carried out into the night. Fighting the urge to escape she lay in his arms as he strode toward the coach that would take her to some unknown destination.
'I must wait for the right time, if I am to escape,' she thought stoically.
Darcy paced his bedchamber, back and forth, back and forth. He knew what he had to do, as distasteful as it was, but maybe there was a way out. Quickly sitting down at his desk he pulled out a sheet of paper and began writing. As soon as one sheet of paper was filled he folded it and began another, never had his pen written so quickly, not even the night he wrote to Elizabeth. Finishing his task, he jotted a note to Fitzwilliam. Making sure that no loose ends were around for prying eyes to see, he quickly made his way to the colonel's bedchamber. Knocking softly on the door, before entering, he motioned to his cousin not to say a word. Handing the note, he had previously written, to his cousin he said,
'I hope you will change your mind and stay for the wedding Fitzwilliam.'
The colonel who had quickly perused the note replied,
'No, I told you I won't stay. You knew how I felt about Anne, now she will be yours, I've made up my mind to leave at once and travel to Matlock. It is of no use to beg I am quite adamant.'
Darcy, winked at his cousin, then turning to leave said, 'I am sorry cousin, but Anne has chosen me.'
Fitzwilliam placed the letters Darcy had handed him, along with the note in his vest pocket. Calling his man, he instructed,
'Have my horse brought around at once, then pack my things and follow me, with them to Matlock.'
As soon as his mount was brought around, he climbed into the saddle and spurred his steed on. Thinking to himself, as he raced down the turnpike toward London, 'I hope for your sake and Miss Bennet's your plan succeeds cousin.'
Reaching the coach, Wickham placed Elizabeth inside on one of the seats as he gave instructions to the driver.
'London! And be quick about it, Mr. Graves.'
Climbing into the coach he took the seat next to Elizabeth, while Mrs. Younge sat opposite. Positioning Elizabeth next to him, he put his arm around her and lay her head on his shoulder. After about an hour, Elizabeth noticed the coaches rocking motion had worked its magic. Sounds of snoring reverberated throughout the coach, as they traveled down the road to London. Slyly peeking at the opposite seat she noticed that Mrs. Young seemed to be dozing nicely, as her head bobbed up and down with the coach. Moving slightly, as if to get comfortable, Lizzy could tell that Wickham had also succumbed to sleep. Maneuvering herself carefully, she was able to free herself from Wickham's arm. As she leaned toward the door, she felt the coach lurch as all went black.
Chapter VII
Colonel Fitzwilliam rode like a demon all night hoping to reach London in time. Proceeding as Darcy had directed him, in his note, he rode straight to the home of Mr. Edward Gardiner in Gracechurch Street. Not knowing anything of Miss Bennet's family he was unsure of what to expect on meeting them, under such circumstances as these. It was still dark as he reached the house, as the sun had not yet fully risen. Knocking on the door he was prepared to wait while the house awoke, instead the door was opened immediately by a gentleman. The older man looked at the colonel with eyes full of anger and fear. Fitzwilliam stood for a moment quite taken a back by the gentleman's appearance, then remembering himself said,
"Good evening Sir are you by chance Mr. Gardiner?'
'No Sir I am not, may I ask your business?'
'I am looking for Mr. Gardiner on urgent business. Please if you would be so kind as to tell him I need to speak to him about his niece, Miss Elizabeth.…"
Before Colonel Fitzwilliam had time to finish, the older man, who had him by the collar, pulled him into the house.
"Where is my daughter?!" Mr. Bennet yelled.
Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had been caught off guard by the erratic behavior of the gentleman, found it hard to speak. It did not help that he was overly tired from the ride and lack of sleep from activity of the past few days. Trying his best to speak he muttered,
"I don't know"
The other occupants of the house, having been roused from their sleep due to the commotion, descended the stairs to find Mr. Bennet holding a strange officer by his collar.
"Brother! Mr. Bennet, let the young man go so he can tell us what he wants," a slightly balding middle aged man said, to the gentleman holding onto Fitzwilliam.
Shaken, but none the worse for the wear, Colonel Fitzwilliam straightened his coat then introduced himself to those assembled in the hallway.
"Good morning, or evening, I do not know which it is. My name is Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, I believe Mr. Bennet and his daughter are acquaintances of my cousin Mr. Darcy," pausing for a breath he continued, "myself and Mr. Darcy have been aiding in the search for Miss Elizabeth Bennet. We were hoping to gain your assistance in a most delicate matter, that will we hope restore Miss Bennet to her family."
Finishing with the introductions the group made their way into the sitting room, where the colonel filled them in on all he and Darcy had discovered. Mr. Bennet, Jane and Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner sat patiently listening to Colonel Fitzwilliam's narrative of what had taken place between Darcy and his cousin Anne. That they were shocked was an understatement.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam," Mr. Bennet asked shaken, "Is Miss De Bourgh violent, I mean do you think she has violent tendencies?"
"No, I have never seen my cousin angry or violent in my life, which is what puzzles Mr. Darcy and myself. Anne has always been exceedingly shy and quiet, indeed she is very introverted."
"Miss Anne has never seemed unstable to you, not ever?" Mrs. Gardiner responded.
"No, never but Darcy told me she seemed so changed, he is not sure she won't harm Miss Bennet regardless if he marries Anne or not. Unfortunately Anne has the upper hand and we must try to stop her, before it is too late for Miss Bennet and my cousin Darcy."
Mr. Bennet could not speak; it seemed to take all his strength to keep his emotions in check. Reaching into his pocket he produced a letter, which he handed to Mr. Gardiner saying, "My cousin asked me to give this to you, Mr. Gardiner, in it he explains our plan to try to rescue Miss Bennet. I will leave now in order to give you time to consider my cousin's plan. I also have to go to see his sister and inform her of all that is taking place. I also need to get in touch with Mr. Bingley, though it will be hard to without his sisters seeing me. I would prefer that no one know I was in town."
Jane at this point spoke up quite unsettled, "Colonel, Mr. Bingley is expected here this morning. If you wish we can fill him in," then blushing she continued, "he is already involved in our family matters as we have recently become engaged."
Colonel Fitzwilliam on hearing this news smiled as he replied, "Yes, please do inform Bingley and let him know that it is of utmost importance to keep this secret from anyone else. I shall return after I have spoken with Miss Darcy," turning to leave he looked at Jane and said, "Mr. Darcy will be pleased to hear your news Miss Bennet, very pleased indeed."
Not wishing to alert anyone to his presence in town, Fitzwilliam made sure to use the rear servant entrance to Darcy's townhouse. Informing Mrs. Cantrell, the housekeeper, of the importance of no one knowing he was there, he instructed her to send Miss Georgiana to the study. Georgiana was not pleased when Mrs. Cantrell awoke her so early in the day. Since her brother had been gone she had taken to sleeping in late in the mornings. Being informed of her cousin's presence she quickly dressed and hurried down to the study. Entering the study, she did not immediately see her cousin, then noticing a figure on the settee she closed the doors and cleared her throat to inform him of her presence.
"Umm'
'Georgiana?'
'Yes cousin, you wanted to see me?'
'Yes, I have some news. Please sit down."
Noticing her cousin's agitated state she cried, "Has something happened to Fitzwilliam!"
"No, no oh how stupid of me," he whispered as he reached for her hand, "please excuse me, no, your brother is fine." Handing over a letter he had taken from his vest he said," It is just that he sent me to give you this, and tell you of his plans to marry."
"Marry, Fitzwilliam is getting married?" Georgiana said alarmed, "to whom?"
"Anne"
The room suddenly became as silent as a tomb, as Georgiana Darcy tried to digest the news her cousin had just dumped on her. She sat dumbfounded as she replayed his words over and over again in her head, "Anne, Darcy is marrying Anne." Georgiana could not believe it, of all the people in the world, Anne was the last one she would ever think of her brother marrying. As the news finally sunk in she turned to her cousin and asked, "Why?"
Colonel Fitzwilliam then related the whole of what had happened at Rosings. Miss Bennet disappearing, Mrs. Collins writing, Anne, the cross, Anne's demand, and finally his cousin's decision. Georgiana sat stunned. Turning to Fitzwilliam with tears in her eyes she asked again, "Why?"
"I believe Darcy explains it all in his letter to you, Now I must go back to the Gardiners to help put your brothers plan in motion. Read the letter, and whatever he asks do without delay. All will be well," her cousin said as he stood up to leave, "whatever you do if anyone asks you have not seen me"
"I understand, I haven't seen you since you and Fitzwilliam left for Rosings."
Mr. Edward Gardiner opened the letter; Colonel Fitzwilliam had delivered to him, from Mr. Darcy. The others present sat while he read the letter to himself, then turning to those assembled he said,
"There is much to be done, little time to do it. Mr. Bingley, you will accompany the colonel and me to Rosings. Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Bennet will leave at once for Hunsford. Let us hope that all goes as Mr. Darcy has planned," then he handing the letter to Mr. Bennet, he said, "Read it carefully then burn it. We can't take a chance of anyone finding out what we are about to do."
Mr. Bennet nodded in agreement, as he received the letter from his brother-in-law. After perusing the letter, he stood, walked to the fireplace and watched the letter disintegrate in the fire.
Having read through her brother's letter for a second time, Georgiana found herself sitting at his desk. Searching the right top drawer, as he had instructed her in his letter, she found the switch that opened a secret compartment in the desk. Rummaging around inside the compartment, she retrieved some papers, then closing it back up she sat back in the big leather chair. William had not told her to read the papers, but her curiosity got the better of her, glancing over them she suddenly understood why he wanted them. A sly smile came to her lips as she read the words her father had written so long ago, "If my son marries due to coercion on the part of any member of the family, he shall lose his inheritance."
Georgiana folded the papers back up, left the study.
Quietly informing Mrs. Cantrell of her intention of leaving town, she went to her room to prepare for her visit to Rosings. Mrs. Annesley was quite delighted with the prospect of seeing Rosings Park. Before long she found herself and Miss Darcy on the road to Kent, along with several others. Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Gardiner and Jane had left earlier that morning for Hunsford. Their mission was to descend on the Collins, in order to divert attention from Mr. Darcy and his companions, and to continue to seek out Elizabeth. Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Gardiner started out later for Rosings, hoping to stop the wedding plans or at least delay them. The road to Kent found itself filled with travelers, on a mission to save a loved one.
Chapter VIII
As she slowly regained consciousness, Elizabeth Bennet found herself lying in a shallow ditch. Seeped in muddy water, her clothing felt heavy and cold. Slowly sitting up, with much effort, she found her left arm ached excruciatingly. On examination she found a gash about as long as her ring finger, but luckily it was not very deep. Pulling at her skirt, she managed to tear a strip of fabric long enough to bandage the cut. Wincing with pain she gingerly rose to her feet, only to fall back down when it became apparent that her right ankle would not support her weight.
'Damn,' she whispered as she looked around for something to support herself with.
Spying a branch nearby, she pulled herself over to it crawling as best she could through the mud. Using the branch like a cane, she managed to finally stand up. Surveying the damage around her she noticed the coach lying a little further up the road. After pondering whether or not to look for the other occupants of the coach, she stood silently looking for movement. The coach lay on its side stripped of its horses, which must have ran off after the wreck. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth methodically made her way to where the wreckage lay. She could see no movement as she eased herself toward the wreck, no sound was heard from within either. Noticing a woman's arm, hanging from the coach, her heart skipped a beat. Reaching out she timidly touched the arm, it was cold to the touch, like ice, and at once she knew that Wickham's friend, Mrs. Younge had not survived. Peering into the coach her eyes beheld the body of Mr. Wickham; he lay twisted and torn inside the coach, yet under it also. Shaking with fear she reached out to touch her old friend. He was still a bit warm, not dead yet. Suddenly a hand grabbed hers as Wickham's eyes opened to meet hers. Smiling he sighed,
'I have the last laugh, Darcy will marry a mad woman,' coughing blood up he continued, 'not his true love, with such fine eyes.'
Having finished Wickham's eyes closed as he drew his last breath, while still holding Elizabeth's hand. Startled at Wickham's disclosure, Elizabeth abruptly pulled her hand away from the dying man's. Giving into her fears, she finally broke down bursting into tears.
'What now, what do I do?' she cried out.
As she turned away from the body of her once friend, she noticed some papers emerging from his jacket. Taking possession, of the papers, she carefully perused the contents.
'So, this is what he meant,' she mused.
Carefully folding the papers back up, she crawled out of the wreckage. Looking down the road in both directions, she sighed,
'Which way do I go?'
Deciding to head in the direction the coach had been heading; she started walking down the road. She had not walked far when a couple in a small gig met her, noticing her condition they bade her to let them take her for medical attention. Unable to argue, as she was feeling weaker by the moment, she climbed aboard, aided by the gentleman, and was soon settled between the couple.
Chapter IX
Having returned from the mausoleum, via the hidden passageway, Anne De Bourgh paced her chamber like a caged animal. Pondering what she had found there she spoke out loud, "Where did that Wickham take her, I should have kept a better eye on him." Picking up a porcelain vase she smashed it against the door. "Now, now Anne," she cackled, "it will be okay, Wicky hates Darcy, he won't let her go."
Anne smiled as she primped in her looking glass, "No one even suspects, poor sickly Anne," pausing to admire herself she continued, "soon I will be Mrs. Darcy and then the fun can begin."
A maniacal laugh rang through out the halls of Rosings. Lady Catherine shuddering at the sound felt a cold chill run down her spine. It had been years since she had heard such an insane laugh, not since the summer Louis had died. "Lilith? Could it be, no, no it was not possible," she mused.
Shaking her head, as if to clear her mind of an unpleasant thought, she went in search of her nephew.
Darcy felt as though he had walked for hours. In order to avoid his aunt and her daughter, he had taken a walk around the grounds early that morning. Having passed the spot he had last seen Elizabeth, he found himself growing angry. Thoughts pervaded his mind, "Why didn't I hear her cries? Where could she be? Who is Anne's accomplice?"
Picking up a stick he flung it at the hedgerow. "Ouch!" came a cry from where the stick had struck. Startled by the voice, Darcy turned around just as Colonel Fitzwilliam stepped through the hedgerow.
"Fitzwilliam, where in the blazes did you come from?'
"London, cousin or have you forgotten?" Fitzwilliam said teasingly.
"No, no I mean…..Oh, you know what I mean." Darcy retorted.
"Sorry old man, I thought it better if I did not arrive with the others, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Gardiner or should I say Mr. Mason, as that is how he will be introduced." Fitzwilliam explained.
"Good work man. What of Miss Bennet's family? How much do they know?"
"Only that you feel responsible for Miss Bennet's difficulty; since your, I mean our, cousin is delusional and has mistaken your friendship with Miss Bennet for more than it is." Fitzwilliam responded as he patted Darcy on the back.
"This has to work, Fitz!" Darcy exclaimed.
"It will, don't worry Darcy," the colonel answered, with conviction.
Colonel Fitzwilliam spent the next few minutes assuring Darcy that no one involved knew of the real reason for Darcy's compliance to his cousin's demand. As the two gentlemen started to part company, they heard a faint cry from the direction of the woods.
"Help me, someone help me!"
Moving with caution toward the area the voice came from; the cousins prepared themselves, in case of a trap. Walking down a small path in the woods, they drew closer to the cries. On entering a small clearing, they heard a scraggly man say, "Oh, sir thank God!"
Darcy stopped short as he unexpectedly discerned who the man was.
"Graves!"
"Yes, sir Mr. Darcy, it's me all right," Graves replied somewhat weakly.
"What are you doing here?" Darcy asked, then noticing the man's condition inquired, "What happened to you man?"
"Wickham sir, he paid me to help him, do a job. I was drivin' a coach he hired, we wrecked."
"Wickham! Where is he?" Darcy demanded.
"Dead sir along with his lady friend.'
"What lady?" demanded Darcy as he angrily grabbed Graves by the coat.
"Mrs. Younge," replied a shaken Graves.
Darcy looked at Fitzwilliam as he released the man. Both men appeared shaken, as the realization hit them.
"Wickham!" they said in unison.
"Please sir, I was jus' doin' a job," Graves pleaded.
"Was there another occupant in this coach?" Darcy queried.
"Yes sir, a young lady, but she was no where to be seen," Graves replied.
After further inquiry, the pair concluded that Miss Bennet might have survived. Wickham, not wishing to be found out, had demanded Graves take an old farm road to London. Colonel Fitzwilliam had to physically hold Darcy back from going in search of the lady in question. After much discussion it was decided upon, that Darcy must go back to Rosings to allay Miss De Bourgh's suspicions.
"Fitzwilliam," Darcy said as they parted, "Take care of Graves, then travel that road and see if you can uncover where Miss Bennet is, and her condition."
Nodding in acknowledgment, the colonel helped Graves to his feet and went in search of Miss Bennet.
Lady Catherine had been looking for Darcy most of the morning, when he finally appeared in the garden.
"Darcy, there you are!" she cried, "I have hardly seen you since the announcement of your engagement to my dear Anne."
Darcy, who wished at this moment he had left with Fitzwilliam, replied coolly, "I have been very busy with plans," catching himself he continued, "plans for the marriage."
"Oh, yes of course, I am sure there are a great many things to take care of, you are forgiven," his aunt replied with a smile.
"That reminds me aunt, I sent an express to my friend Mr. Bingley and my solicitor to hasten here at once for the wedding. I am in hope of their arriving here by this evening," Darcy announced as he excused himself.
Darcy lay back in the tub as his man poured in more hot water. The past few days seemed a blur. His cousin Anne's behavior was volatile at times; while at others she seemed almost complacent. Trying to understand these sudden mood swings, he lay pondering the past.
Dozing off for a moment he dreamt of when he was a boy visiting Rosings. George Wickham, due to Fitzwilliam having been ill had accompanied him. Anne had been her usual shy, sickly self; but then something occurred in the dream that startled Darcy awake.
"What was it that Wickham told me about Anne?" he mused.
Thinking back over the years he remembered, Wickham had related a story of Anne coming to his room at night, they had played in the mausoleum. Darcy recalled how he had, on hearing the tale on the ride back to Pemberley, dismissed it as one of George's tall tales. Now it suddenly struck him, George wasn't lying.
That evening as Darcy was enjoying a respite from his aunt's incessant rambling, he was suddenly aroused by voices in the foyer. Discerning Bingleys voice as one of them, he hurried out to greet his friend.
"Darcy," Bingley exclaimed on seeing him, "Congratulations!"
"Why thank you Bingley, I see you received my express."
"Yes, yes oh," turning to his companion said, "let me introduce you, this is Mr. Mason. Mr. Mason, Mr. Darcy. Darcy, Mr. Mason is here on behalf of your solicitor."
Darcy extended his hand to Mr. Mason as he said, "Mr. Mason, so good of you to have come on so short notice."
Mr. Mason smiled and accepting Darcy's hand shook it heartily, as he replied, "I was only to happy to be of service to you. Mr. Rundle sends his regards and apologizes for not being able to attend you himself; but he had pressing matters that required his attention, so not wishing to inconvenience you he dispatched me in his stead."
Mr. Darcy was quite impressed with Mr. Gardiner's (Mason) role-playing. Looking the gentleman over he regretted that he ever thought ill of Miss Bennet's connections. As he was determining how to break the latest news to Miss Bennet's uncle, Anne appeared next to him.
Looking over the new arrivals she wondered, "Now whom have you sent for Darcy?"
Turning to his cousin Darcy said "Miss Anne De Bourgh, may I present Mr. Bingley and Mr. Mason," pausing to gauge his cousin's reaction he continued, "Mr. Bingley is my closest friend, he is to stand up for me. Mr. Mason has brought papers from my solicitor, which will finalize the terms, as well as a special license procured for the nuptials."
Anne's eyes narrowed as she checked out the latest arrivals. Smiling she took Darcy's arm simpering as she did so, "Willie, I had no idea you were so eager to secure me. Welcome Gentlemen, Willie dear can show you to your chambers, I know you must be tired from your journey." Surprising Darcy, she leaned over and gave him a kiss on the cheek before departing.
Chapter X
Mr. Collins' surprise, at the arrival of Mr. Bennet and his party, was only exceeded by his wife's joy.
"Mr. Bennet, Jane, Mrs. Gardiner thank goodness you have arrived," Charlotte cried on greeting her guests.
Jane embraced Charlotte as she asked, "What news, what news of Lizzy."
Charlotte, with tears streaming down her cheeks, could only shake her head, acknowledging that there was no news to relate. Mr. Collins, who had stood to the side while his wife welcomed their visitors, suddenly spoke up, "Now Charlotte I told you, Miss Eliza is probably just off visiting some new acquaintance, this whole search is quite unnecessary."
Mr. Bennet felt like throttling his cousin; however he managed to hold his temper as he pushed by Mr. Collins and entered the parsonage. Jane, noticing her father's troubled countenance, smiled as she passed Mr. Collins and said, "Please forgive my father's manners, but he is not in a good temper now, you see Lizzy is his favorite daughter."
Mr. Collins sneered at his cousin's remarks and motioning to the ladies bid them to enter the parsonage, as he announced his intention of visiting Rosings. Hearing his words, Jane grabbed hold of Charlotte's arm and gave it a squeeze. Charlotte immediately caught the meaning of this action and speaking in a firm voice said, "Mr. Collins, I think you should wait to visit her ladyship as it is growing late. I am sure she is busy making plans for Miss De Bourgh's wedding, and would be displeased at being imposed on so late in the day."
Mr. Collins, recognizing the tone in his wife's entreaty, followed the ladies into the parsonage as he mumbled under his breath, "Yes, Charlotte you always know what is right don't you!"
Charlotte, on entering the parsonage, called to her housemaid, "Daisy, please bring some tea and cold meat for our guests."
"Yes ma'am, at once," Daisy replied with a smile.
Jane wishing to inform Charlotte of all that had been discussed in London, claiming a headache asked to be shown to her bedchamber. Charlotte wishing to converse with Jane in private, responded saying, "Jane, of course, come with me I'll show you to your bedchamber."
Leaving the others to their repast, the friends made their way upstairs. Stopping outside the first door they came to Charlotte opened the door as she said calmly, "This has been Lizzy's room, during her visit."
Jane looked around the room, touching and picking up her sister's belongings. Holding Lizzy's hairbrush, she said with a heavy-heart, "Charlotte, how can Mr. Collins possibly believe Lizzy would leave, and not take her things?"
Charlotte tried to comfort her friend as best she could. Assuring her that with the help of Mr. Darcy and the colonel all would be well. On hearing their names Jane inquired, "What made you write to Mr. Darcy for help?"
Charlotte, remembering her promise to Mr. Darcy, replied, "He had seemed so amiable, I just thought with his cousin, the Colonel's, connections they would be able to help. Mr. Collins was of no help, I didn't know where else to turn."
Jane seeming to accept this answer, confided in Charlotte all that she was aware of, Miss De Bourgh's demand and Mr. Darcy's willingness to help. Then she informed Charlotte of her own engagement, but bade her to keep it a secret. Fearing Mr. Collins might come in search of her, Charlotte excused herself, but not before giving Jane her vow of silence.
Startled by the absence of Mr. Collins, on entering the parlor, Charlotte asked alarmed, "Mrs. Gardiner, Mr. Bennet where is Mr. Collins?"
"He left not a moment ago in search of a book I requested," Mr. Bennet replied, 'Fordyce's Sermons volume II, I thought it would help me sleep."
Charlotte let out a small giggle, them looking solemnly at Mr. Bennet she said, "Mr. Bennet, I am sure Lizzy will be returned to us safely."
Mr. Bennet touched by Mrs. Collins' kind words wiped a tear, which had escaped from the corner of his eye. Before he could utter a reply, Mr. Collins entered with the requested book under his arm.
"Here you are Mr. Bennet, Fordyce's Sermons volume II, as you requested," then turning to his wife, with a wicked smile on his face, he suggested, "Mrs. Collins, I have been thinking of the sleeping arrangements for our guests, while they are with us. I believe Mr. Bennet will be most comfortable in my bedchamber, I shall share with you, and Mrs. Gardiner can share with Jane."
Charlotte, seeing what her husband was about, replied sternly, "No, Mr. Collins. Mr. Bennet shall share your bedchamber , I will share with Maria, Mrs. Gardiner will take my bedchamber and Jane will stay in the bedchamber Lizzy has been using."
Mr. Bennet could hardly keep from laughing, when he saw the look on Mr. Collins' face. "So Charlotte isn't such a fool after all," he mused to himself as he followed Mr. Collins up the stairs.
Colonel Fitzwilliam had seen to Mr. Graves, depositing him with an old retired sergeant he knew. Sergeant Pyle, had served under the colonel years ago, now due to a leg wound he ran a small inn outside of Hunsford. Knowing he could trust the sergeant, he ordered him to, "See that Graves is seen to, and keep him here until you here from me again, sergeant!"
The sergeant gave him a quick salute, then replied, "Don' worry bout' im sir, I'll take good enough care of im."
Having done his duty by Graves, the colonel rode on in search of Miss Bennet. The road, he found, was not much more than a cow path. It was rutted deeply, even more so than the main turnpike. It was amazing to him that the coach had managed the road this far, and he had yet to find the wreck. "A gig would have a rough time on this road, as narrow and rutted as it is," he mused. On their way to the Inn, Graves had related to the colonel the rough condition of the road. On seeing it, nay experiencing it, on horseback he wondered if anyone traveled it at all. Graves had managed to catch one of the coach horses and road nearly to Rosings, before falling off in the clearing where he had been found. "Thank God, he didn't make it to Rosings," the colonel mused. Having traveled a good while, Fitzwilliam began to wonder if Graves had misled him. Rounding a bend in the road, he spied the wreckage. Several burly men were attempting to right the coach, with large wooden levers.
As he drew near one of the men approached him saying, "Nasty wreck here sir, looks like it's been here a couple of days. Couldn't find no driver, but the passengers are there in the cart.'
'Have they been identified?'
'No sir, Gentleman and a lady they are, but not from around here.'
'No one else, no survivors?'
'Couldn't say, think the driver lived, haven't found him. There is something curious we found though, my dog brought it to me," the man continued as he held up a ladies boot, "I saw him with something in the ditch so I called him over, and this is what he brought me. At first we thought it belonged to the lady over there, but it was too small for her."
"Maybe there was another passenger," Fitzwilliam replied snatching the boot from the farmer's hand.
The startled farmer looked suspiciously at the colonel and asked, "You don't know who they might be do ya sir?"
"Yes, I believe so," he said as he dismounted. Striding over to the cart, he lifted the cover and said dispassionately," Mr. George Wickham and I believe a Mrs. Younge." Turning to the man he held out a small bag of coins, "See to it they are buried discreetly!" He said as he mounted his horse and headed back to Rosings.