Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter 8

Posted on Wednesday, 26 January 2000, at 5 : 00 a.m.

Andrew ran across to the park. They were all going to play billiards at Darce's house. Except they had to take Bonnie because Ash had almost had a fit when he realised Bonnie didn't have a companion and said they couldn't leave her at home.

Andrew was very pleased he thought back to the moment that pleased him.

"So Lord Ashbourne I went to a real fight! Though I was not as close as you say Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and yourself were."

"Stop it!"

"My lord?"

"Ash, for heaven's sake call me Ash, you are a relation, relations do not call me Lord Ashbourne. Besides the way you say it makes me want to thump you. And this isn't Mr. Darcy!"

"It isn't?"

"No it's DARCE. And this isn't Mr. Bingley it's Bingley and this isn't Colonel Fitzwilliam it's just plain Fitzwilliam. Now repeat after me, Ash, Darce, Bingley, Fitzwilliam."

"Ash, Darcy, Bingley, Fitzwilliam."

"Good-o!"

Andrew practically bumped into Stapleton. While he was thinking about how he was practically already *in* with the men.

"Hey Stapleton, sorry I didn't see you there!" Stapleton was a young man that Andrew had met quite early on in their time in London. He was the only person living in the square that had been at all nice to Andrew.

Consequently, they had taken to each other quite well, though in the way that young men are, they hardly even knew each other's names but they could recite word by word each other's opinions on the latest fashion, the ton etc. Much in the same way that young men can discuss nowadays quite easily, the football team their best mate prefers, along with what his favourite band is or what kind or car he prefers, but ask them something personal like 'So is thingamabob serious about his girlfriend' or 'Is your friend upset about suchandsuch?' And they wouldn't have a clue.

"Andrew! Hey what is this with Stapleton? Call me Harry!

"Harry! You haven't met my sister Bonnie have you!"

"Bonnie? Bonnie Fitzwilliam?"

"Yes! Good I'm glad it's you! She was constantly talking about you and if it had been anyone else I would have told them where to go, but I'm glad she likes you!"

Harry flushed a little, but walked along side Andrew. Andrew saw Bonnie ahead and called out to her.

He saw his sisters' reaction to his companion and grinned.

"Bonnie, we have to go our cousins say they wish to go play billiards and that you must come with us."

Bonnie looked upset and walked over to Andrew whispering quietly at him.

"No Andy, I want to stay here, I will be fine."

Bonnie then went to talk to Harry. Andrew sighed and walked back to his cousins.

"She won't come."

Ash joined him and scoured the park.

"Is she the pretty one with the auburn ringlets?"

"Yes, that's Bonnie."

"Andrew you go and tell her that she is coming with us and she can either come willingly, or I can come over and pick her up and carry her back here. Now ask her if she really wants to be treated thusly in front of that young man."

Andrew smirked and turned to go to his sister. Ash called after him, "Be tactful!"
Andrew laughed as he walked across the park, what he wouldn't give to be as discerning as Ash.

Kitty sat in the Darcy Townhouse, they had been shopping all day and Kitty was well pleased because she had found just the perfect gifts for most of the servants.

However she wasn't so pleased that she hadn't managed to find a single thing for Ash. She sighed watching her sisters with their husbands' presents.

"Oh William will adore this book."

"Oh and Charles simply needed new riding books, he has been so enjoying riding around Netherfield."

"Oh well George will be thrilled with this new great-coat!"

Even Aunt Gardiner and Philips had bought presents and Mama had bought Papa a book. Kitty sighed. Aunt Gardiner had already told her that it 'was proper to buy ones husband a present'. As if she didn't already know that. But what to get him. Snuff? A cane? A shirt pin? A dressing gown? Kitty did not know. She did not know of any books he wanted and did not own. She knew of nothing he wanted.

"Kitty!" called her Mama, jerking her from her trance.

"Yes Mama?"

"Come and look!" Kitty noticed that the room's occupants were looking out of the windows. Kitty moved over beside Jane, peering out she made out Darcy's carriage.

"Oh William has brought back the cousins!" called Lizzy. Lizzy smiled at everyone.

"This will be nice, to finally meet them!"

Kitty didn't think there was much 'finally' about it. She had known of their existence since this morning and she doubted Lizzy had been told much earlier.

She watched Mama straighten herself out to meet her noble cousins. Lydia was also priming herself up to greet them. Lizzy paced around. Kitty seemed to be the only one not curious and that was because she was still worrying about Ash's present.

Darcy walked into the room and greeted Lizzy, behind him was a girl, Bonnie was 14 at least that was what Ash had said. Kitty gasped at her, she had auburn ringlets, a sort of red-blond colour, bronze would be another word for it, or copper. It really depended on your opinion and perspective. Kitty thought she was the prettiest girl she had ever seen, she couldn't believe she was only 14. Darcy introduced Bonnie to everyone, Bonnie just curtseyed and smiled. Kitty motioned Bonnie to come sit with her.

Bonnie watched quietly as Andrew walked into the room to meet the rest of his cousins. Lady Ashbourne had been very nice to her, asking all sorts of questions. Bonnie decided she liked Lady Ashbourne. She liked Mrs. Darcy but Mrs. Darcy was talking a great deal to Mr. Darcy. Bonnie was rather afraid of her male cousins. They spent the carriage ride heartily joking about things Bonnie did not understand and thought she shouldn't understand.

She was most afraid of Lord Ashbourne and least afraid of Mr. Bingley. Mr. Bingley who she understood was not a cousin, but the husband of Lady Ashbourne and Mrs. Darcy's sister. Which made him a kind of relation but she did not know what. Her cousin-in-law's sister's husband? It was definitely a thin connection. Anyway Bonnie liked him, he seemed jovial and friendly. Colonel Fitzwilliam was very jovial and well merry but he was a little too much so.

But as he is a younger son and must make his way in the world, we will forgive this joviality, jocularity and jesting. For as the man himself has said, he cannot marry without consideration to fortune and a good humour is the one of the best traits a man can have it can endear him to the wealthiest of women without him having a whit of fortune.

Mr. Darcy was a very odd character, Andrew had told Bonnie that he was absolutely foxed the first time he saw him, then in the carriage he was rather open but still stiff, now he was very well corpse-like. Lord Ashbourne was just plain frightening! You had to call him my lord and such-like. Bonnie was really quite afraid of meeting her uncle because he was an Earl.

To say that Bonnie felt overwhelmed would be a severe understatement, here she thought that her only relations in the world were to be her Papa and brother and suddenly she found herself with masses of persons connected to her in some way.

Bonnie left the Darcys house with a shopping excursion planned for the next day, to buy clothes and Lady Ashbourne appeared to need some more Christmas presents. Arrangements were made for a family dinner at the Ashbourne's the next day and then the Christmas Eve party at the Matlocks. Bonnie felt herself about to be thrown into the arena. She had gone from having no friends to being on the verge of having many, because the two cousins she hadn't met were both unmarried females aged 17 and 25.

Mary sighed as she watched Miss Darcy play the piano, she was beginning to regret not going on the shopping expedition. Not that Mary was saying that she disliked Miss Darcy's companionship, it was just that she had been in London since October and nothing had happened.

She did not blame her sister for taking some of the limelight, at least Mama had stopped pestering her about getting married and concentrated on making Kitty's engagement pure torture. Mary was beginning to think that the clerk in Meryton was sounding more and more attractive as the time progressed.

Because, dear readers, Mary did not have a high opinion of marriage, well at least marriage with her. She saw her pretty sisters, younger and older married and three of them married extremely well. Then she saw herself.

Mary thought well of her older sisters and well Kitty had been terribly nice to her and well it might not be best to describe Mary's thoughts about Lydia. Mary thought about Kitty, Mary thought that Kitty had behaved shockingly when the party from Longbourn arrived in London. So Mary felt very sincere pity for Lord Ashbourne, so much so that she was wrapping a book of sermons to comfort him during the holiday season.

Mary sighed and picked up Fordyce's and lovingly stroked the covers, she had learnt long ago that she would never be noticed unless she had something clever to say.

Edwin unlocked the box, sighing as he looked at the contents. He did not hear his wife walking up behind him.

"Oh Edwin, they are beautiful!"

Edwin turned to her and smiled as he unhooked the necklace from it's position and fingered in his hands. Harriet pulled up a chair behind him and reached out for the box. Edwin played with the reddish-brown stones.

Harriet had pulled out the bracelet and earrings and was admiring them.

"These were your mothers garnets were they not?"

"Yes they were."

Harriet paused placing the jewellery back into the box.

"Why do you have them? All your mother's jewellery was bequeathed and I know that Anne or Catherine would have loved these."

"My mother intended them for Grace or for the daughter of Grace."

"She would let them pass out of the family?"

Edwin smiled, his mother had been a shrewd woman, even on her deathbed she warned that Richard was attached to Grace and that he would have to watch them until they were of age.

"She was fairly sure Grace would be part of the family."

"Oh....why did not Anne or Catherine take charge of them, after you thought Richard and Grace would not be coming back?"

"Anne liked them I know, when Georgiana was born she suggested....but Catherine had a fit."

"She wanted them for Anne." Nodded Harriet.

"No! Why does everyone think the worst of Catherine? No at that stage she still held out that mothers wish be fulfilled. Now at least I can fulfil it."

"Fulfil it? Oh..Bonnie."

"Ash says that Bonnie reminded him of someone, to be sure it would be Grace but he was only nine at the time."

"If she looks anything like Grace, these will suit her."

Edwin sighed, speaking of Grace, he walked over to his desk and opened one of the drawers he pulled out yet another box, that was still partially wrapped in paper. But time had ripped the paper and yellowed it, though as a testament to it's intended purpose a large yellow ribbon was till tied around it.

Edwin walked over and gave the box to his wife. Harriet was surprised because she had never seen the box before, Harriet noticed there was a card on it written in her husbands hand.

"My dear Gracious Grace,

My glass shall not persuade me I am old
But when my glass shows me myself indeed,
Beated and chopp'd with tann'd antiquity
That time of year thou mayst in me behold
When yellow leaves, or none, or few do hang
My days are past the best.
(William Shakespeare)

Gracious Grace upon attaining your eighteenth year do not suppose I wish to say that you are old! I wish to tell you that you have your life ahead of you, and I wish the space between this and the ringing true of the above, to be the very best of times. My dear girl may your life give you many memories.

The fondest and dearest regards,

Edwin Fitzwilliam

Harriet turned the card over.

Eddy! I do not have time to open the present or take it with me! Do not be angry I saw it in your drawer while looking for a place to put my note. I want to thank you for your kindness to myself. I will have memories and some of the fondest will be of my dear brother Eddy. For that is what you have always been to me in my mind and soon you will be officially ~ Gracious Grace.

Harriet choked back sobs, because she saw Grace dying at only 25. The memories flooded back. Such a beauty was Grace, so angelic and for her to die........ She looked at her husband, who was having a hard time keeping his composure.

"She never saw my gift, she never even reached................"

Harriet slowly opened the box. She swallowed slowly.

"Edwin they would have looked so stunning on her. Why did you never tell me?"

"I don't know, guilt, depression, sadness, despair. I loved her like a daughter and Richard like a son.........that was always my mistake."

"What will you do with them?"

"I was thinking of giving them to Bonnie."

"Yes.......and the card?"

Edwin reached over and took the card from his wife, silently he placed it back in the desk draw. Harriet closed her eyes and swallowed.

"I never got to say goodbye."

"We all loved Grace............." She closed the box and went to comfort her husband.

Chapter 9

Posted on Sunday, 30 January 2000, at 4 : 01 a.m.

Ash walked over to the closet in Kitty's room, he was rather bored and decided to look around, see what Kitty had done to the place. He threw open the door of the closet, and boxes upon boxes fell upon his head.

After very carefully not swearing (the indomitable Mrs. Roberts had informed him that it was not becoming of the master. She had dear reader decided that it was her place to tell him so, so do not be alarmed that she forgot her place, because we know that she would never like for anyone to think she forgot her place!), Ash started to pick up the boxes and noticed that they were all Christmas presents.

Now let us not say that Ash was being nosy, let us instead say that he was being very careful and gentle with the presents, this carefulness allowed him to pick up the presents one by one and note who they were for. Now that we have redeemed his lordships character we may continue.

After they were all returned to the closet and Ash had noted there were presents from everyone from the Dowager Duchess of Whitfield to the scullery maid. He closed the door and went to sit on the bed. There were no presents for him, he felt very sad. Now one could say this was his punishment for snooping. He finally felt more heartened when he thought that Kitty might have put his present somewhere else.

Luckily for everyone concerned, Kitty entered the chamber from her bath. This action stopped any further carefulness on Ash's part. Kitty looked at her rather morose husband and looked at him quizzically.

"Um, the closet door swung open and um I happened to notice there weren't any presents for............me."

"The door happened to swing open? And you happened to notice that out of the 30 presents in there that there wasn't one for you?"

Ash felt like a small child

" 'es "

"What was that?"

" 'es"

"Oh, well you are absolutely right!" sighed Kitty joining Ash on the bed. "I don't know what to get you, you kind of have everything........."

Ash gave a laugh he put his arm around Kitty.

"Oh well, I shall have to go without, though I must say.........my Christmas present came early this year. " He gave Kitty a sly look.

"A Christmas present! Is that all I am to you, a possession." She replied, laughingly lying back on the bed.

Ash leaned over her, "Of course, it's what the law says you are."

Then he bit his lip, perhaps not the right thing to say. But Kitty started laughing. It was catching, soon they were both in peals of mirth.

Lady Catherine sat before her vanity, looking at the somewhat haughty features that were before her. Forty-seven, where had her life gone? Lady Catherine watched her maid attach her hat, it was the one with the dead bird.

"No, No. Take it off." She snapped at the maid. The maid hurriedly removed it and replaced it with a simpler one that appeared to have no dead animals residing in it.

Another maid hurried in, what was her name? Lady Catherine thought hard but could not remember, surely she should know her own servants' names, even if it was to reprimand them.

"If you please your ladyship, a Miss Bingley is waiting upon you in the parlour."

Miss Bingley? Oh that's right, Fitzwilliam brought her and her brother to Rosings one year. She appeared to be setting her cap at Fitzwilliam, well it didn't do her any good.

Lady Catherine, nodded at the maid and walked down stairs. She was surprised to see Anne already sitting there looking a lot healthier then usual. But the sight of Miss Bingley surprised her even more, she was dressed in full mourning.

"Miss Bingley, " Lady Catherine took her normal place, in a rather regal looking armchair.

"Your ladyship, I have come to sympathise with you on the grievous loss of your nephews."

What? Lady Catherine grabbed hold of the side of her armchair her head reeling, loss of my nephews? What has happened, oh please let nothing have happened to them.

For although Lady Catherine De Bourgh was a harsh lady, she had a strong connection with her family and she did love them all, in her own special way.

"The loss of my nephews?" Lady Catherine weakly said.

"Yes, it is most grievous that they should disobey you so, they deserve the disgrace and if I may be so bold I should wipe them clean out of your family bible."

Lady Catherine became even more confused when she heard this statement from Miss Bingley.

"Of what would we be talking?"

"The shocking liaison's of Mr. Darcy and Lord Ashbourne."

Lady Catherine breathed a sigh of relief, so they weren't dead. She fixed her piercing eyes on Miss Bingley.

"May I inquire Miss Bingley, for whom you are in mourning?"

"Your nephews! For as we know they might as well be dead since they have lost your favour."

Lady Catherine looked surprised at Miss Bingley, she seemed to be smiling very insincerely at her. Lady Catherine was confused, normally she could understand why people would try to curry her favour, it was because she was so intelligent and rich. But Miss Bingley was confusing her.

"How improper........." was all Lady Catherine could manage, for it was improper to run around in mourning for somebody who wasn't dead. It was times like this, Lady Catherine wished she hadn't smothered Anne so much, she could have used some assistance. Lady Catherine looked at her daughter, feeling remorse.

Why remorse I hear you say. It was because, after the disappearance of her brother, Lady Catherine did everything in her power to keep her daughter at home. Anne had not been a sickly child until her mother had told her she was. I hear you cry 'how could she do this to her own child, smother her and try and force her to marry her cousin??'. But we must understand that in marrying Anne to her cousin, Anne would stay in the family and Lady Catherine would never lose her.

"I agree wholeheartedly, it was most improper of your nephews to embark on such attachments without the proper consent of the family, for you I am sure never consented."

Lady Catherine turned back to her strange visitor, her eyes narrowing, it took her ladyship sometime to work out exactly why Miss Bingley had called and why she seemed to be trying to curry her favour. Then it hit her, Miss Bingley appeared to be same age as Anne and was still Miss Bingley.

"Miss Bingley, you have £20, 000 pounds do you not?"

"Yes your ladyship."

"I see," Yes Lady Catherine did begin to see. Connections..........

"I was wondering, if dear Miss De Bourgh was in need of company while she is savouring the delights of London, I know that my sister and I would be overjoyed if you would allow us to accompany her."

Lady Catherine's eyes narrowed to slits, let Miss Bingley, anywhere near her Anne? Shocking suggestion, normally Lady Catherine would be overjoyed at the proper respect Miss Bingley was showing to her and Anne, but at the present time it annoyed her.

"Miss Bingley, I am afraid we were just on our way out."

"Of course, may I ask to call again after the Christmas celebrations?"

No! Go away and take your black clothes with you. "Of course,"

Miss Bingley was shown out and Lady Catherine sat back in her chair.

"Sit still Horrie!" shrieked Lady Catherine.

"I detest this! What point is there getting us all together for a family portrait!" cried Richard, trying to keep the errant Anne on his lap.

Lady Catherine sighed, her six old nephew was supposed to be sitting still on her lap. "This is no use Eddy! Horrie has got to stand! Can't I hold Richie?"

Edwin was having as much trouble as Lady Catherine. "Richard Fitzwilliam!"

Richard, a lazy boy of sixteen looked up at his older brother. "Yes?" he drawled.

"Not you! Richard! Stop that!" Little Richie was running circles around the posing group, waving a sword, his father grabbed hold of him divested him of the sword and looked towards the painter.

"Well?"

Lady Catherine almost laughed at the painters expression, she could understand why though, no one would sit still!

Her brother Richard sat beside her holding her daughter Anne a chubby seven-month old, She sat holding the wayward little viscount. Lady Anne sat on her other side holding her precious little Fitzwilliam, and Harriet was on the end now restraining her younger son. Edwin stood centre, between Anne and Catherine, George stood behind Anne, and Lewis stood behind Catherine.

A smile played at Lady Catherine's lips as she remembered that afternoon. They were painting a portrait for Mama. It was the summer of 1788.

"Mother?"

Lady Catherine looked up sharply at her daughter.

"Mr. and Mrs. Collins where are they?"

Lady Catherine opened her mouth, she did not know where the Collins were, she could not remember seeing either of them, since that afternoon at Edwin's, when Richard had been there.

"Catherine! He's gone!" cried Edwin.

"Gone? What do you mean gone?" Lady Catherine was standing in Matlock Close, looking at her brother pacing the floor.

"He has fled............with Grace."

Lady Catherine swallowed. It was too much, her mother had just died, she had travelled to Rosings for the funeral. The first thing she had asked about was Richard, they had removed Richard and Mama from London to the Close because Mama wanted to die there.

"What?"

"He has fled the country, decided to abandon his family."

"For Grace? He didn't need to do that....."

"I don't know why, Grace left me a note but Richard left his note addressed to you." Edwin held out the letter to Lady Catherine, she took it and opened it.

Dearest Kitty,

I know you will be wondering what I have done, but I could not stay. I know that you said that if anything should happen to Mama, I would be welcome at Rosings and I know I would have been happy there, if not for Sir Lewis. I know he is a good husband and father, but he does not like me. I do not wish to put you in the position, dearest sister, of having to choose between brother and husband. As for Anne, we have never been close. George and Edwin treat me like a child, I do not wish for that.

As for taking Grace, well I love her, I know everyone thinks that I cannot love yet, but I do.

I will contact you, Kitty, someday. I only ask, that if Edwin wishes to cast me off, cross my name out of the bible, I only ask forgiveness from you, dearest sister.

Pray for me

Richard Fitzwilliam.

Lady Catherine sighed, she never did forgive him, for running away, for never writing, for making her cry, for ruining her marriage, for crushing her faith in people.

Lady Catherine regarded her daughter........."Anne, did you want to marry Fitzwilliam?"

Anne started at her mother's question. In fact the blunt question startled the normally shy and retiring Anne De Bourgh into answering honestly.

"No I didn't"

"Oh." Anne watched her mother stand up and leave the room.

Anne was bewildered, her mother had been acting so strange of late. Anne wished Mrs. Collins was here, Anne did not know where Mrs. Collins was, probably out visiting but Anne needed some advice, and Mrs. Jenkinson was visiting relations at Bath.

Anne donned her coat and bonnet, called for a footman to accompany her and walked, yes walked, the short distance from the De Bourgh townhouse to Park Lane.

She espied Lady Ashbourne about embark on a walk about Hyde Park, Anne hurried to join her.

"Lady Ashbourne" Anne called.

Lady Ashbourne turned, "Anne?"

"Oh I am so glad to have caught you, " cried Anne breathlessly. Lady Ashbourne offered Anne her arm and they proceeded to take a turn in the park.

"Anne what brings you out?"

"Oh Lady Ashbourne...."

"Do call me Kitty!"

"Kitty, Mother has been acting so strangely. We went to call on Uncle two days ago and well we met Uncle Richard, who I did not even know existed! Mother fainted, Mother never faints! They had an argument, Uncle Richard and Mother did. Mother ran off. Mother never runs. She locked herself up all yesterday, refusing to see anyone. Mother never does that she so enjoys company. Then she comes down stairs today, Mother that is, to see her in mourning. Miss Bingley that is, Miss Bingley was in mourning. Miss Bingley told Mother that she was here to pay her respects on losing her nephews, mother then looked ill. Mother is never ill! Miss Bingley then said that she would be happy to show me around town and that Horrie and Fitzwilliam were improper and that they deserved to be crossed out of the family bible! Oh I shouldn't be saying such things in front of you. Well I do not want to be shown around by Miss Bingley, I do not like her, she was most mean to me when she came to Rosings because she was after Fitzwilliam for herself. But I did not want him, Fitzwilliam that is. And that is the point after Miss Bingley left, Mother asked me if I had ever wanted to marry Fitzwilliam and I said I didn't."

Anne breathed out.

"Is she angry with you Anne?" asked Kitty, looking at Anne with the deepest of sympathies.

"No, that is the point. She said 'oh'."

"Oh? Well maybe she is very shocked by the return of Uncle Richard."

"Possibly, Father mentioned once to me that Mother had a very silly little brother, but I assumed he had died, not run off to the continent with an orphan."

"Were your father and mother close?"

"I think they were, well at least they were but I think though I cannot be sure that they weren't as happy as they had once been. Why do you ask Kitty?"

"Well your mother is a very.......how do I put it, demanding person, I was wondering if she would be still mourning for your father."

"Oh, I really couldn't say. Though I want you and Mrs. Darcy to know, that my mother's opinions aren't my own."

"Of course Anne, I will always remember that." Kitty kissed Anne as they parted and Anne returned home, feeling somewhat better after talking to someone.

Her mother was sitting in the parlour, Anne braced herself for the inevitable lecture about how she was delicate and should not be walking anywhere.

"You look much healthier Anne, you should take more exercise." Anne's mouth gaped at her mother. But what was to come would shock her even more.

"Anne sit down, I have been thinking that we shall have to get you a husband." Oh dear thought Anne. "Now I have made up a list." What shall it be this time, a duke? A marquis? Thought Anne.

"Now I absolutely forbid you to marry the following: a footman, a chimney sweep, a tailor, a butler, an ensign though any other army person above this rank is acceptable, a steward, a coachman, a groomsman, any body remotely connected to the Avon household and no body related to the Smythe household, I really can not stand Lady Smythe."

Anne stared at her mother. Confusion washing over her.

"What are you gaping at me for, it is most unladylike Anne. Now off you go, perhaps Lady Ashbourne will take you to meet some nice gentleman."

"Lady Ashbourne????"

"Yes, Lady Ashbourne, I really hope you are not becoming deaf Anne, that would be extremely vexing."

"You wish me to find myself a husband?"

"Yes, find one you like, The Bennet girls seem experts at it, I'm sure they will all help you." Anne's eye's widened as her mother patted her on the shoulder and exited the room.

Anne De Bourgh was aghast, What would she do?

Poor Anne, What does one do, when one's own mother appears to be destined to be shipped off to Bedlam?

Chapter 10

Posted on Sunday, 6 February 2000, at 1 : 27 a.m.

Mary sighed as she climbed into the carriage with the Bingleys, they were going to dinner at the Gardiners. Mary really did not like London, for one no one really seemed to be at all interested in the works of Fordyce and no one seemed interested in morals.

Mary sighed, yet again as the carriage turned into Gracechurch Street, she could see the Darcy carriage up ahead and her mother was getting out of it, she could hear the shrill voice from here.

"Well, it was such a pity, that you should have asked us, because I know dear LADY ASHBOURNE, was most sorry to not have us at her little DINNER party. But I shall not reproach you!"

Mary groaned at this, Mama was yelling at poor Aunt Gardiner, who had come to the door to greet them, Mama looked well pleased when heads turned her direction. Lydia skipped out of the carriage smiling gaily with one of Lizzy's shawls around her and Aunt Phillips regally stepped out of the Darcy carriage. Only Papa seemed to be acting as if coming to visit his family was the most natural thing in the world, rather then as if their visit was equal to a visit from the Prince Regent. (Who Mary had heard was shockingly immoral).

Mary clasped her music folder when she alighted from the Bingley carriage.

Richard Fitzwilliam and his family walked up towards Ashbourne house. Andrew did not appear to be fazed but Bonnie still looked a little scared.

"Bonnie, we're not feeding you to the wolves!" joked Andrew. Richard was thinking that perhaps in some ways they were, Richard had no idea how Catherine would react to seeing him again not to mention his children!

The footman opened the door and accompanied them upstairs. Richard inquired as to who had arrived.

"The whole party, sir."

Great! thought Richard, the dramatic entrance. Richard put a hand on his son's shoulder and whispered into his ear.

"Your Aunt, Lady Catherine, don't be surprised if she is well, not overly nice I don't think she has entirely forgiven me."

Andrew nodded, Richard gave his daughter the same warning. The footman opened the door and announced their arrival.

Richard walked in, flanked by his children. The introductions were made. Richard was surprised to see Catherine looking rather baffled.

"Come here boy!" commanded Catherine. Andrew looked at Richard, who nodded. Andrew walked over to his Aunt and sat by her on the divan.

Richard walked over to talk to his brother.

"Edwin."

"Richard."

Silence. Edwin finally broke it.

"Richard, what are you planning on doing when you are in London?"

"Well, I am not even sure why I came to London."

Edwin seemed to laugh at that.

"Well we are going to Matlock Close for January and February, you are welcome to join us."

"We?"

"Well Harriet and myself obviously, but Horrie and Kitty are coming, Fitzwilliam should be, Anne and Catherine."

"Oh, well yes I think I would be delighted to come, I really want to see the Close again."

Edwin frowned, "Oh and I think Catherine might be bringing the Collinses."

Richard shuddered. Oh well he would provide a large amount of amusement, to say the least. Richard looked at Edwin to see if he thought the same about Mr Collins, but Edwin was looking over Richard's shoulder. Richard turned and smiled at the sight of Bonnie and Andrew on either side of their aunt.

Andrew nodded and answered all of his aunt's questions. They were ranging from his education, to his opinions on subjects although they appeared to be his aunts opinions on things and all Andrew had to do was nod.

Lady Catherine began her assault on poor Bonnie, who took it remarkably well, Bonnie was informed that it was not ladylike to sit as she was siting and was given a host of advice that Andrew thought she could not possibly need.

Lady Catherine, turned back to Andrew and appeared to be intently scrutinising him. Andrew hoped that there wasn't something wrong with him and that he had shaved properly. Lady Catherine turned back to Bonnie then wheeled back to Andrew, she stood up with a gasp and sailed out of the room.

Andrew wondered what he had done, he saw his father looking very sadly at the door Lady Catherine had just slammed.

"Lady Catherine!" cried Kitty, walking briskly after her Aunt.

Kitty caught up with her in the hall, "Are you all right?"

"Of course I am all right, I am just seeing what you have done to my dear Horatio's house. The nerve of my nephews to marry such upstart pretentious women of no breeding or fortune!"

Kitty let Lady Catherine ramble on for some time, before quietly saying. "I'm sorry I thought you might be upset, or in some need of assistance." Kitty raised her voice, "But if you wish to know how I have sullied your nephews house, I will say that I have not changed a thing in this hall, however I did rearrange some of the books in the library. I believe the complete works of Shakespeare is now to the left of Thomas More's Utopia. Also I feel it may be necessary to warn you that Henry Fielding is now up one shelf." Kitty took a breath.

"As for the drawing room, I believe one of the divans was moved possibly a few centimetres to the left, so that the view out of the window could be properly appreciated. Oh your ladyship, you will be simply furious when you hear I had my closet re-shelved!"

Kitty finished, trying to give her best haughty look.

Lady Catherine looked at her niece, trying not to smile, she remembered how she had dealt with her mother-in-law, when she had come to tell her how to properly look after her house. Lady Catherine was surprised how many memories had come flooding back in the last few days. So many ghosts to remember, speaking of ghosts, she remembered the feeling of a few moments ago, looking at Bonnie and Andrew it was like seeing their parents.

Lady Catherine realised she had not said anything and that Kitty was looking most disdainful.

"You are wrong, Lady Ashbourne I believe their was a vase in this hall, and I do not see it now!"

"Yes your ladyship, Ash got rid of it."

"Horrie did, did he?"

"Yes he said it was a hideous vase."

"Oh, I gave him that vase."

Lady Catherine watched as Kitty bit her lip and looked very uncomfortable.

"My mother-in-law gave it to me." replied Lady Catherine with an unmistakable tone in her voice.

Kitty's hand flew to her mouth, but too late to prevent a giggle. Lady Catherine smiled, it was a hideous vase it had occupied a dusty corner in Rosings until for some odd reason Lady Catherine thought it was an honour to bestow it on her eldest nephew. Lady Catherine watched as Kitty walked towards a small cabinet, open it and pull out a figurine.

Kitty turned back holding out the object to Lady Catherine. "My mother gave me this."

Lady Catherine turned the object over in her hands, it appeared to be a cupid, what the cupid was doing I think would have shocked most people, but Lady Catherine was fairly unshockable. It was the most hideous thing she had ever seen.

She handed it back to Kitty with a small smile, without saying a word she pointed to a very out of the way corner in the hall, a place where no one would be in danger of seeing such an object.

Kitty understood and nodded. A small wave of familiarity swept through the two women as they stood there.

After dinner, the group sat listening to Lizzy play the piano and Georgiana sing.

"Do you sing Bonnie?" asked Kitty. Ash was seated all the way across the room, keeping one eye on his wife and the other eye on the piano, trying to follow his brother's military talk, his fathers political talk and Andrew's fashion talk.

"Of course she sings!" exclaimed Lady Catherine, "anyone who is a lady sings!"

Ash grimaced at his Aunt, he really wished she would just accept that her nephews had minds of their own and had decided to marry shock horror, not their cousin but nice ladies. He noticed that Lizzy had stopped playing and everyone was watching Kitty.

Kitty took a sip of tea and turned to Lady Catherine, "Well then I guess we must not be ladies."

Touché. Thought Ash. He could tell that the rest of the family thought so too and he felt rather proud, but he had this sinking suspicion that his Aunt would not stop there. He saw out of the corner of his eye, Lizzy rising to come to her sister's defence if need be.

"Yes well I knew that you were not a lady! I was born and bred a lady, you are an usurper."

Ash rose, he was now furious. No one insulted his wife like that. Kitty put down her tea.

"Yes, your ladyship, I suppose I am *not* a lady. Ladies do not hold dinner parties when they are supposed to be in mourning."

Ash did a double-take along with most people in the room. What? He saw that his cousin Anne was struggling to maintain her composure and that Kitty seemed almost on the verge of hysteria, but what surprised him was that Lady Catherine had put down her tea and was also trying to breath calmly.

"Well, as a lady I would never presume to hold anything while in mourning for my husband." replied Lady Catherine calmly.

Ash's jaw dropped, what on earth were they on about?"

"Well as a lady, I do not see how receiving people in mourning is proper either." Replied Kitty coolly after recovering her countenance.

"But as a lady, at least I do not run around in mourning for perfectly healthy gentlemen! I assume that they are perfectly healthy." Replied Lady Catherine.

"I'm not putting arsenic in his soup if that is what you are implying, only ladies would do that."

"You are mistaken my dear, ladies, use cyanide."

"Oh, well thank you for the tip your ladyship."

Ash's head reeled, where they talking about murdering him? He saw the rather shocked faces of his family.

"Darcy you see is looking well, Lady Catherine." Added Kitty.

"Yes, I can see that for myself, thank you Lady Ashbourne."

"I think Miss Bingley is some need of spectacles. I suggest you recommend someone when she next calls." Kitty's voice seemed to crack at this last sentence.

Anne started laughing hysterically, joined very closely by Kitty but surprising Lady Catherine appeared to be actually smiling.

Part 11

Posted on Wednesday, 16 February 2000, at 6 : 26 a.m.

Darcy tried his hardest not to laugh, he had no idea what the 'joke' was, but the sight of Kitty, Lady Catherine and Anne on the verge of hysteria, was strangely catching. The sight of his cousin, half way across the room to 'protect' his wife, was even more amusing, not to mention the sight of his own Lizzy half risen from the piano to tell Lady Catherine where to go, if needed. Everyone else seemed to be a bit overwhelmed or shocked.

"Uncle, will it be all right, if our party stops over one night at Matlock? I believe Mrs Bennet is desirous of seeing the place."

"Of course Fitzwilliam. Speaking of our little trip, Andrew, Bonnie would you like to invite a friend? Because I doubt we shall be very companionable for you!"

Darcy groaned, he thought he had sunk it to a subterranean level, but he could still perceive Lizzy frowning at him. He could still remember the hour he had to spend, without a drink listening to all the 'simply wonderful' things that happened during Andrew's early life. The boy seemed to have fallen out of more trees, accidentally got on more carts, lost his way in more noble estates and started more fights then well seemed possible. The idea of having to spend more than an afternoon in close quarters with him sounded like a chore, one he was happy to leave to Ash or the Colonel. To have TWO of them, he shuddered. Though he could see his Uncle's reasoning, having two of them meant that they were more likely to talk amongst themselves.

"Oh Uncle I do have a friend his name is Harry Stapleton! " cried Andrew. Darcy almost thought he saw Bonnie blush at this, his eyes swung to Kitty who was seated across the room from him, she was thoroughly recovered from whatever was ailing her and raised her eyebrows at him.

For the sake of people who aren't in the room currently and can't see these expressive glances I will translate. The first glance to Kitty meant : Did you just see Bonnie? Kitty's reply was : Yes I did.

Darcy listened as the discussion started about the Stapleton boy, his father was a lawyer and that Uncle Edwin would send a letter of invitation at once. Andrew then launched into a spiel about how great everything would be.

Darcy watched his little cousin start to fidget. He shot Kitty a look. What do you think about this Kitty? Isn't she too young?

Kitty, raised her teacup to her lips and took a small sip. Woman are never too young Darcy, it's men who are childish.

Bonnie made some small remark about how she did not know any body to invite, to which Andrew replied that Harry could do all right for both of them. Bonnie turned scarlet. Darcy was really surprised by this, he glanced at Kitty. A little matchmaking?

Kitty frowned slightly, which Ash took as to being in response to his comment that he would like to play Andrew at Billiards, so Darcy watched as Ash looked even more confused. The glance actually meant : Matchmaking! Are you joking, you would completely ruin it!

Lizzy came to sit beside him, whispering at him about Bonnie and how she really was quite shy and was it a Fitzwilliam family trait that the younger women be so exceeding shy. Darcy took Lizzy's hand and squeezed it. Looking triumphantly at Kitty. You see my wife agrees that we should help Bonnie, become less shy and romance is the only way to go!

Kitty shook her head with a roll of her eyes. Fine bring on the violet flowers, I am your faithful Puck. But I really protest at you Darcy, you will turn into my mother next.

Darcy squeezed Lizzy's hand a little too violently at this last glance from Kitty.

"William!"

"Oh I am sorry, " Darcy kissed her hand better, "It's just your sister was suggesting that I was turning into your mother."

The room looked at Darcy, thinking he too had, lost his senses, vacated his brain, lights on but no one home and that sort of thing.

Ash looked at Kitty, he was lying back on the bed.

"What was up with you and Darcy?'

"Un affaire de coeur."

Ash's lips moved.

"What!"

"Bonnie and that Harry person. Ash! What did you think I meant!" laughed Kitty.

"When one says, in French, an affair of the heart, one does not know what to think!" Ash groaned, "To think sometime next week we will be at Matlock Close."

Kitty looked at him, "You aren't looking forward to going?"

"MR Collins! How can anyone be looking forward to spending ANY time in the same household as him. My Aunt must really be out for revenge. Speaking of whom........." Kitty smiling

"Miss Bingley paid a call on Lady Catherine, in mourning for you and Darcy."

Ash's eyebrow's shot up, and a smirk played at the corners of his lips. "Ah, that explains it, I suppose...................Anyway back to Mr Collins! Why did no one tell me he was so bad."

"It's something one has to see before believing, he stood on my frock and tore it at a dance once."

"Capital offence! I shall call him out at once."

"I wish you would!"

It isn't entirely necessary to tell you the details of the next three days, we will skip to Boxing day. However a few details might interest you.

The servants in the Ashbourne household of course, showed no surprise if they saw there master in the act of being careful. Lord Ashbourne was very careful to look in all drawers and cupboards, just in case something dangerous was kept in them. He very carefully checked mail and any parcels that were delivered. However his wife, kept one step ahead of him, with the help of Mrs Roberts and Middleton (who was out for revenge anyway.) So he was surprised by the snuff, cane, shirt pin and dressing gown (he was especially pleased by the dressing gown) that were presented to him by Kitty. He was also rather surprised by her appearance, she appeared to have a giant bow attached to her. She really had the appearance of a present. We shall leave Lord Ashbourne now, who is in the process of falling of his bed choking with laughter.

Mr Darcy was also receiving gifts from his Lizzy, they were also dreading the trip to Pemberley. A servant came and produced presents from Lord and Lady Ashbourne. Lord Ashbourne gave Lizzy a charming little necklace, he gave Darcy a bottle of brandy.

Darcy laughed when he saw Lord Ashbourne's present, but laughed even harder at the complete Shakespeare from Lady Asbourne. Lizzy was confused, didn't he already have Shakespeare and the bunch of purple flowers that Lizzy was sure was for her, but no they were for Darcy. To understand Darcy's mirth we must read the inscribed message in the beginning of the book.

Oberon,

It is such a pity that you did not 'Ill met by moonlight your proud Titania.' If you do not give up your matchmaking ways, you may be forced to say 'This is your negligence, Puck; or did you do this wilfully?' However you will never hear me say 'However, I am not sorry this has happened, for I think their jangling makes excellent sport.' I am not cruel!

I fear you already have this compendium but I shall give it to you anyway, along with a fair supply of Love in Idleness. I leave you with this, Je ne veux pas m'en mêler. And a poorly constructed phrase, Fâites vos propres sale affaires.

Much Love and Affection

Puck

* * Any quotations are from Shakespeare's 'Midsummer Night's Dream' or 'Much Ado About Nothing'.

Chapter 12

Posted on Friday, 18 February 2000, at 11 : 09 p.m.

Andrew espied Harry walking across the park towards his home, Andrew did not manage to catch up with him, instead he got stopped by the footman and had to wait to be shown into the drawing room.

"Master Fitzwilliam"

Andrew walked into the room and made his greetings, to what seemed a very cold and formal Victoria and her mother who were expecting more important guests then Andrew.

Harry looked surprised to see him. "Harry I was chasing you across the square! I have simply wonderful news, I am to go to my uncle's for January and February and I am asking you if you would like to come with me."

A great smile spread across Harry's face, and frowns across the women's.

"I should say yes!" replied Harry at the same time his mother said "Oh I don't think that will be possible."

Both the young men looked at Mrs. Stapleton, who was rather relieved when her husband entered the room.

"Ah Mr. Stapleton, I was just telling Mr. Fitzwilliam that it is impossible that Harry accompany him to his Uncle's for January and February "

"Impossible? Nonsense! Do you wish to go?"

"Yes Sir very much!"

"Well then, you may."

"Oh Mr. Stapleton." Cried Mrs. Stapleton greatly vexed. Victoria frowned and looked angrily towards Andrew. "Do you have a letter of invitation." Sneered Mrs. Stapleton. Who was imagining her precious son in some dreadful house in Manchester, Birmingham or Newcastle. She was most put out, especially since Rosalind's father the baron was coming to London for the start of Parliament.

Andrew sighed, he knew he had forgotten something. "Oh, my uncle will send it here."

The rest of the day was spent talking over things with Harry.

Harry was a very gentleman like person, so he did not even ask as to where they were going, he would find out with the Uncle's letter. Harry did not really care where they were going or into what kind of society because he was happy to get away from his family and he genuinely liked Andrew (not to mention Bonnie). Maybe he had the added temptation of being out of his families matchmaking reach when Rosalind came to town.

Mr. Stapleton regarded his family a couple of days later, Harry looked mightily pleased with himself, but the women looked put out. Mr. Stapleton was aware that over the last two days both his wife and daughter had been trying to convince his son that he really did not want to accompany Andrew Fitzwilliam and that Rosalind was 'womanly perfection'.

Mr. Stapleton sighed as he picked up his letters, one of which had a rather grand seal upon it. He opened this one first and surveyed the contents, while his wife rebuked their son.

Dear Mr. Stapleton,

My family and I are extending an invitation to your son Harry, to accompany our family party to Matlock Close for the upcoming two months. My nephew Andrew has impressed upon both myself and Lady Matlock, the regard he feels for your son. I feel that this friendship can only bring good to my nephew and I am anxious to help strengthen the bond.

My son Lord Ashbourne and his wife shall be part of the family, along with my son Colonel Fitzwilliam. My sister, Lady Catherine and her daughter, Miss De Bourgh shall be retiring to the country bringing with her, her estimable parson and his wife. My brother shall of course be attending with Andrew and Miss Fitzwilliam.

I hope that this invitation will be readily accepted.

Yours Sincerely

Lord Edwin Matlock

Earl of Matlock
Viscount Matlock
Baron Fitzwilliam

Mr. Stapleton was most shocked at the letter, but also greatly amused that his wife and daughter would have to eat their words.

Mr. Stapleton would have made Mr. Bennet a wonderful companion for he too enjoyed a good joke and instead of telling his family about the letter and who it was from, he much later casually stated the letter of invitation had been received and he had written the reply. The reply ran like this:

Lord Matlock,

I accept the invitation you have generously offered to my son. He will be most happy to accept it.

I hope that you will allow me to request something of you. I request that you immediately send back my son the instance he causes so much as the slightest hint of trouble. I am highly gratified that you have issued this invitation when it appears it will be more of a burden then a delight.

Yours etc

Mr. Stapleton.

You might be wondering at the formality of these letters but neither of these men knew each other, even though I as an author know that as men, they would get along famously.

Mr. Stapleton received an answer to his reply very shortly, unfortunately it was while sitting in his drawing room and the note was intercepted by his daughter.

"Mama! Look it is a note from the Matlocks to Papa!" cried Victoria running into the drawing room.

"They are clients of yours??" cried Mrs. Stapleton. Harry looked up from his paper, wondering why his father was receiving letters from an earl.

Mr. Stapleton frowned at his daughter and took the note off her.

My dear sir,

I think you might wish to take back that request! With the household I am entertaining I think it highly likely that my nephew Andrew will be sent packing! I hope that you will be prepared for both your son and my nephew to suddenly arrive on your doorstep.

Edwin Fitzwilliam

Earl of Matlock
Viscount Matlock
Baron Fitzwilliam

A smile crept across Mr. Stapleton's face. It disappeared when he saw his wife and daughter's eyes light up.

"Well Papa?"

"It is a reply to a letter I sent him."

"You sent him a letter!" exclaimed Mrs. Stapleton.

"Yes in reply to one he sent me."

He could see both his wife and daughter were confused, he was very pleased they would stop asking questions now. However his son ruined his plans.

"Papa! Why did he send a letter to you? Business?" asked Harry innocently. Mr. Stapleton frowned at his son, but was saved by the entrance of Andrew Fitzwilliam. Mr. Stapleton judged that this would be the best time to reveal all.

"Ah Andrew! I have received the letter of invitation from your Uncle."

"Really, that is good news sir."

"Yes and I have had a reply, to my reply. Would you care to read it?" asked Mr. Stapleton nonchalantly.

"Sir?" asked Andrew confused.

Mr. Stapleton tossed the letter from Lord Matlock over to Andrew.

"Sir! I think that is the wrong letter!" called Mrs. Stapleton. Mr. Stapleton ignored her, watching a grin cross Andrew's face.

"I say! That isn't fair of my uncle to say that! But I've already been banned from most of the carriages! Ash said he would rather be shot in the foot than ride in a carriage with me, and well he HAS been shot in the foot so I suppose he can actually compare the experiences."

Mr. Stapleton almost laughed at Andrew's statement, then looking at his wife's and daughters face's he almost succumbed. Instead he stood rapidly and practically ran out of the room and it did not do his composure any good, when he heard his wife say, "Dear Andrew, just how is your dear Uncle Lord Matlock."

Very early on the morning of the 30th of December, the Fitzwilliam party, departed in several carriages.

Lord Ashbourne used the excuse of being fairly newly married and commandeered his carriage for himself and Kitty only.

Lady Catherine took Anne along with Mr. and Mrs. Collins (along with an infant whom Lady Catherine was pretty sure belonged to Mrs. Collins) in her carriage. Lord and Lady Matlock along with Lizzy and Mr. Bennet departed in their carriage. Harry, Andrew and the Colonel had a rather boys time of it in their small carriage. Richard escorted his daughter and Georgiana in another carriage.

But poor Darcy got the raw end of the deal, Lydia, Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Phillips.

Ash sighed as he looked around his carriage, he noted the peace and quiet, the large amount of space, the feeling of pure enjoyment knowing that somewhere, someone else is dealing with your relations. The peace and quiet, hmmmmm, he looked over at Kitty who had turned white.

"You aren't much good in carriages are you?"

Kitty made no response, Ash was unsure of how he should take that.

"Perhaps if you put your head between your legs? Make you feel less sick, no don't ask me why but it works."

Kitty dumbly obeyed and then started moaning. Ash didn't like the sound of this at all.

"Um sweetie, are you sure you are all right..." and I just got the carriage redone....

Kitty's moans increased.

Errr..... thought Ash. He was really quite worried and not just for the carriage.

Darcy had a rather dreadful time of it all the way to Matlock and unfortunately so did Ash. Finally they reached Matlock after a tiring few days of journey.

Kitty staggered out of the carriage while Ash made a mental note that she was a dreadful traveller. Lady Catherine walked over and offered Kitty her arm. Kitty was most surprised that Lady Catherine would honour her in this way and accepted it. She was taken into the house, Kitty felt a bit better but still felt rather woozy. Apparently they were the last carriage to have arrived. Lady Catherine showed Kitty to her room. Kitty was vaguely aware of passing most of the party but she could only pick out Mr. Collins voice.

"My amiable Charlotte, may be in the position of giving me ANOTHER, yes ANOTHER olive branch and only 12 months after the birth of our dear little Lewis olive branch. My condescending and patronising dear Lady Catherine has suggested that a doctor be sent for with alacrity."

This almost made Kitty blanch and she was almost sure she heard Lady Catherine mutter, "I'm sure he didn't mean patronising, the stupid imbecile." After an eternity of stairs they apparently made it to Kitty's room. Kitty was sure she would have no idea how to get back downstairs but this did not trouble her as all she wanted to do was sleep anyway.

Lady Catherine sat her down on the bed, and fixed her eyes on Kitty. Kitty became quite unnerved, surely she did not lure me up here to DO anything to me thought Kitty. Kitty became even more alarmed as Lady Catherine's eyes narrowed and there seemed to be an alarming lack of weapons in the room.

"Now Catherine dear ........"

Chapter 13

Posted on Wednesday, 23 February 2000, at 4 : 00 a.m.

This part is dedicated to Chris, who helped me come up with such a splendid idea for a character in my little bit of ivory :) See if you can guess who it is :) And don't you DARE dislike this character! Well I suppose you CAN dislike the character but only for due reason! Let me just say that Georgette Heyer is influencing me a bit here and there.

Lady Catherine closed the door on Kitty's chamber and walked down stairs to dinner, she passed the doctor on the way and nodded her head to him as he exited the building. She took her place at dinner silently and began eating.

Harriet watched as her sister-in-law joined the table. "Lady Catherine, do you know where Mrs. Collins or Kitty is do you?"

Before Lady Catherine could reply, Mr. Collins spewed forth, in two senses of the word, a volley of words.

"My most amicable Charlotte, who I must say appears to be designed for me, is resting as the doctor ordered. Nay as Lady Catherine ordered, she feels that all young ladies should rest constantly!"

"Ah, and Kitty?"

"Most unwell, she is resting, I feel that a nice long rest will help what ails her. In my opinion married ladies should rest a great deal. I know that I rested constantly, and I know Harriet that you have enjoyed the benefits of a good long rest."

Harriet's mind began to turn. Ash put down his cutlery and looked reprovingly at his aunt.

"Aunt Catherine, I beg to inform you that Kitty is not a child, I'm sure that she can decide for herself what she wishes to do and your interference is unnecessary." Ash's voice had barbs in it. Harriet sighed she knew her son and Darcy were feeling very incensed towards their Aunt. But Lady Catherine brought it upon herself with all her criticism and helpful advice.

"Do you think I should take a rest Lady Catherine?" Asked Lizzy archly.

"Most certainly not! There is no reason for YOU to rest." retorted Lady Catherine. She watched Darcy throw down his napkin in disgust. Luckily Kitty decided to make her appearance and the inquiries into her health stopped any continuation of the budding argument.

She watched as her daughter-in-law meekly submitted to sitting next to Lady Catherine, while half the table looked disgusted that anyone would be so submissive to Lady Catherine. She watched as Lady Catherine whispered something at Kitty as the Colonel thrust a plate of something under Kitty's nose. The reaction was Kitty to flee the room.

"Lady Catherine, may I ask you to refrain from upsetting my wife, your snide comments are not going to be tolerated from myself for much longer." Ash said coldly.

Lady Catherine rose from her chair, "I assure you nephew that this happens to have arisen because of something you have done!" Lady Catherine.

Harriet almost choked into her wine, she waited a full five minutes before excusing herself to run after the other women.

Harriet burst open the chamber door and looked to Lady Catherine, who nodded. Harriet's eyes fell to Kitty who seemed to be a rather green colour. Harriet was so happy that she gave an excited scream, she then gave Kitty the biggest hug and started rambling.

The assembled party downstairs was rather subdued or angry, it was shaken by the sound of Lady Matlock screaming suddenly. Everyone looked around at everyone else, wondering what could be going on.

To own the truth several of the persons were hoping that Lady Catherine was being accidentally shoved out of the nearest window, but none of this kind nice persons would EVER have owned to a thought like that.

Kitty tried to free herself from Harriet's embrace.

"Lady Matlock!"

"Harriet please! Oh I'm so happy, I will start knitting right away........................"

"Um Harriet you are acting like my mother!" That made Harriet spring away.

"Oh well I'm sorry, but such happy news!" Harriet was practically jumping up and down like an excited child.

"Harriet sit down before you fall down." Was Lady Catherine's contribution to the conversation. In fact Kitty could not fathom Lady Catherine at all, sometimes she seemed nice, but sometimes not and she ALWAYS gave advice. Kitty had had advice spewing out of her ears as soon as the doctor had left that afternoon.

"So what dish was it that you could not stand?" inquired Harriet.

"I'm not exactly sure, it was... well I don't know what it was." replied Kitty.

"Well pray it isn't meat in general, when I was with child with Anne I could not stand meat, or poultry or fish. Poor Sir Lewis had to eat in the Kitchen."

"Eat in the Kitchen!" exclaimed Harriet.

Lady Catherine fastened her eyes on Harriet.

"You didn't expect ME to eat there did you?"

Kitty couldn't help herself, she started laughing hysterically. Very soon Harriet joined in.

The table downstairs actually heard this laughter surprisingly and were most confused. Several of the occupants were actually thinking, 'maybe they have pushed Lady Catherine out of a window and they are triumphing their victory.'

Harriet left the room after tucking Kitty firmly into bed and promising to send up some bread. They decided bread was probably the safest foodstuff for the moment. Lady Catherine made to leave, Kitty called after her.

"Lady Catherine.....thank you." Lady Catherine couldn't help but smile. She walked out of the door and sighed.

"Catherine! Catherine! Look at this............." Cried a jubilant Grace.

Lady Catherine watched as the 11-year-old ran towards her. "Grace ladies do not run it is most unbecoming."

Grace immediately slowed down as she approached she held out her hand, laying in it was a simple pendant of silver.

"That's nice, where did you get it?" asked Lady Catherine.....ten to one from Edwin she thought.

"Oh Eddy gave it to me." smiled Grace, she then ran off spotting Richard at the end of the corridor. Lady Catherine sighed. Edwin tended to spoil Grace. Lady Catherine worried about what was going to happen to Richard, Grace and Mama now that she was getting married. They would all continue on in the Matlock Dowager House I suppose, Mama wouldn't hear of anything less.

Grace and Mama she knew would be fine, but she was not so sure about Richard. Edwin tended to overlook his little brother or be a bit too severe upon him in Lady Catherine's opinion. She watched as Richard walked along the hall in her direction, kicking the wall at various intervals.

Lady Catherine felt sorry for him, so as he passed she tapped him on the shoulder and held out some money to him.

"Lady Catherine!! .........Thank you" He said cheekily, bowing. Lady Catherine slapped the back of his head.

Ash after the other ladies withdrew, he instead of sharing a bottle of port went upstairs to check on Kitty. He had been hoping that his Aunt was becoming reconciled to the fact that he had married Kitty, he had little hope for Darcy and Lizzy though, since Darcy had 'ruined dear Anne's dreams.'

He opened the door to Kitty's chamber slowly, he perceived that she seemed to be already in bed, he hoped that his Aunt hadn't upset her. He tiptoed into the room, Kitty turned and smiled at him.

"So what has my estimable Aunt been saying now? Before you came downstairs she was inexcusably rude to Lizzy."

Kitty smiled at him, in fact she looked too happy for someone who supposedly had been upset by Aunt Catherine. Ash took a seat on the bed and looked inquiringly at her.

"I'm going to have a child."

Ash leapt off the bed. "We're pregnant??" he exclaimed.

Kitty laughed. "No."

"No?" Ash sank back on the bed confused.

"I'm pregnant and you are a giant buffoon." Replied Kitty hitting him with a pillow.

Ash laughed and gave Kitty such a hug. "I love you so much."

"Ditto!"

Ash made to lie back but Kitty was taking up most of the room, he made to move her.

"Hey! You better get used to this, soon I'll be a hideous over-grown pumpkin! and Harriet was so.....so clucky.....I don't know what Mama will say, oh dear Mama! She will-"

Ash clamped a hand over Kitty's mouth. "Don't spoil this moment by mentioning your mother!"

Perhaps it would be best to leave the couple there. Happiness is something you need to share, not impose upon.

Mary walked out of the Bingley townhouse, down the front steps and into the street. She had her arms full with books that she intended to deliver to some of the Bingleys acquaintance. Suddenly a man, of medium height bumped into her, causing the books to go everywhere.

The man swore which shocked Mary to no end but he did pick up all her books and hand them back to her. He then apologised in the grandest of terms.

"Sir Christian Montgomery at your service." Sir Christian reached for Mary's hand, Mary snatched it away. Sir Christian laughed and walked away, Mary watched as he walked along the street, he looked back at her several times with a most unusual expression.

"Monty!" called out another gentleman stopping the man. Mary could hear there every word.

"Devilishly plain girl she is, Monty."

"I was thinking the exact same thing!"

"Really?"

"Do you think she would do Franz?"

Franz looked back at Mary who had turned bright scarlet.

"I dare say! I think she is a Miss Bennet."

"Really, what a lark to have Darcy, Ash and Bingley as brothers-in-law. Plus she had sermon books in her arms, she wouldn't bother ME! She'd just sit at home and read her sermons to console her, poor dear!!"

Franz and Sir Christian laughed heartily. Mary turned on her heels and stalked back into the townhouse as red as a tomato.

Mary immediately went and opened her book of Fordyce's sermons to calm her down.

Chapter 14

Posted on Sunday, 27 February 2000, at 1 : 13 a.m.

The morning dawned bright for the Darcys departure. Andrew hung back with Harry watching as the party split into two carriages, the rest of the party watched from the steps waving them off.

The party, now seven members less, grouped into one of the saloons. Lady Catherine immediately became concerned at Anne's pale complexion and ordered her to take some exercise.

"Yes, mother. Perhaps I could go horseback riding?"

"Certainly."

"And my cousin Fitzwilliam will accompany me, won't you Colonel." Anne's voice was very soft, Andrew was surprised that his cousin could sound so pretty in voice yet look so sickly in nature. Though Andrew felt he wasn't doing his cousin complete justice, she did have very distinct features if only they weren't clouded by illness. Cousin Fitzwilliam looked a little shocked by this statement of Anne's but he recovered himself admirably.

"Of course Cousin." Replied Fitzwilliam bowing.

"I should like to go riding." remarked Bonnie.

"Yes you should, because I always feel that gentle exercise is very ladylike and you are a delicate person Bonnie." Lectured Lady Catherine.

Surprisingly, or not so surprisingly Harry suddenly spoke up. "I should like to go riding also."

"Ah with so many escorts I see you no longer need me." remarked Fitzwilliam, apparently trying to wriggle out of it.

"Oh no dear cousin, we shall need your gallant services." Smiled Anne.

With that the riding party left and everyone else seemed to find something to do excepting Andrew and Ash.

"Play a game of Piquet?" asked Ash.

"Certainly, for money?" responded Andrew. They sat down at a nearby table as Ash readied the cards.

"Certainly not. Gaming is a dreadful vice."

"You never gamble?"

"No....not never....but not often and what ever would your father say if I was to lead you astray." Smiled Ash. "but I recollect that it isn't at all possible to lead you further astray."

"Very funny, cousin. We must play for something! I know, if I win, you must truthfully answer a question of mine and if you win I must truthfully answer a question of yours. Agreed?"

"Of course, who could not agree to such tame stakes."

"Tame" cried Andrew, " you never know what I might ask you!"

They set down to play. Andrew easily won the first game, it was obvious that his cousin let him win, but Andrew wasn't too fazed by that, however if he was allowed to win too many times it might invoke his temper.

"Well Ash, there is one thing that has been on my mind. I mean I don't profess to know everything-"

"How very wise of you." drawled Ash.

Andrew snorted, "But I think it very odd for a man to let his heir go off and join the army."

"However did you learn of that!"

"Lady Catherine...."

"She tell you that, to prove what a bad parent my father is?"

"No she told me you were shot so that I wouldn't care to join."

"How protective of her."

"But back to the question. Why did he let you join the Army. I mean I know he had a spare-"

"Fitzwilliam will love being referred to as that."

"But he let both of you join."

"Well the Answer is quite simple: Your Father." Replied Ash, dealing out the cards for the next game.

"My father? What on earth does he have to do with it." Andrew glanced over his cards.

"Your father took off to the continent."

"Yes I do know that!"

"Yes but do you know why? By the by it's a Fitzwilliam trait, we all tend to lope off. Fitzwilliam took off to Scotland, you heard me mention it before, didn't hear from him for a week. Mama, as you might have guessed was distraught."

"Don't get off the point. Carte Blanche."

"Fine, Fine, your father was fed up with my father treating him like a complete child that he ran away."

"So your father decided to not try and coddle you otherwise you might run?"

"Exactly!"

"35"

"Not Good"

"Quatrième to 10"

"Not Good"

"Four Aces"

"Good"

The conversation fell into nothing except what was necessary for the game, Ash won easily.

"Now I have to ask you a question. What ever shall it be?"

"I don't know, it's your question."

"Well I know, what ever do you think of Bonnie and the Harry fellow."

"She's too young."

"Granted-"

"But I see no harm in it, he isn't like his mother and sister."

"Wouldn't make good in-laws?" joked Ash.

"Definitely not. They were dead against Harry coming but when they found out my Uncle was an Earl. Well it turned out that Harry had always had their blessing."

"Regular toad-eaters?"

"God yes, don't know how Harry stands them."

"Well one tends to find ways of dealing with relatives."

"With some I believe the only way to deal with them is to send them on a long walk down a short pier."

Andrew watched as his cousin's eyes rose to meet his, they were really laughing now.

"You really are a bothersome person aren't you! Just another mischief I will have to keep you out of."

Normally Andrew would have been upset at this obvious reference to him needing a chaperone. But he took it with good grace, he was beginning to like his new found family.

Andrew managed somehow to win the next game, though he knew Ash hadn't let him win, it was just his cousin was lumbered with a cumbersome hand.

"Ash, what's up with Lady Catherine."

"That my dear boy is something that would take hours to explain, even if you could understand it, which even I don't."

"Try me."

"Okay, the short of it is, that Lady Catherine was always the bossy person, family pride, always in charge, has advice for everyone - "

"I know the type..."

"Yes well I remember when she wasn't so Lady Catherine like none of the other cousins can, Fitzwilliam was knocked up with some childhood illness that year and well Darce I suppose was a little too young to remember perfectly. She wasn't best pleased when your father took off. Took it as a blow to her personally."

"One of those types."

Ash raised his eyebrows but continued, "So she became steadily worse and practically unbearable, Sir Lewis tried to settle her down but I think she blamed him for driving Richard away. Then Sir Lewis died, Lady Catherine felt guilty for blaming him. She closeted Anne away at home with her decided Darce would marry her. Darce didn't marry her, married an upstart girl with no fortune-"

"How can you speak about Mrs Darcy like that!" exclaimed Andrew, then Andrew remembered, "Oh.....I see."

Ash smiled lazily. "Lady Catherine was 'most seriously displeased' wouldn't speak to Darce. Then I committed the final slap in the face and married another of those dreadful Miss Bennets. Though I think she has forgiven me-"

"Why should she forgive you?"

"Because I wasn't to marry her darling daughter and I think she has a soft spot for me, partly due I think to the fact that I haven't been in the country very often." Ash gave a little chuckle here. " But your father arriving has given us all a breather."

"What do you mean."

"She has two more nephews and nieces and another brother, shares out the advice more. Plus Richard was her favourite so more attention falls to you and Bonnie then us others, for which I am infinitely grateful." Ash looked at his cards and groaned.

The horse riding group separated very shortly after setting out. The group split into Bonnie and Harry, Fitzwilliam and Anne.

You might think that Bonnie or Harry instigated this split but it was Anne. Because Anne having bought all those new clothes and started herself on a new health regime had decided a husband was the way to go after all. She had chosen as the 'chosen partner of her fate' her cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam. After all he was the right age, as a younger son he needed an heiress, and Anne was an Heiress. Furthermore he was relation which would make Lady Catherine most pleased and he was someone Anne had known all her life so she fancied there would be no nasty little surprises regarding his character that she would discover after they were married. Lastly though Anne would never admit to this, she had a certain fascination for red-coats, therefore her cousins Fitzwilliam and Ash had always been her favourites, though she decided that Ash had too much of a sharp tongue (not to mention he was already married), Fitzwilliam however was complete amiability. He would make a good husband, Anne would and could easily beat him into submission if she chose to. So with these plans of matrimony in her mind she set about separating Fitzwilliam from the others.

They ambled along a path, after Anne realised that Bonnie was just going to stick in sight of the house, she turned off into a more enclosed thicket leaving Fitzwilliam no choice but to follow her .

"It's a nice day isn't it Anne."

"Perfectly."

"Are you enjoying Matlock."

"How could I not enjoy Matlock, my cousins are here!"

"Ah well.........I shall probably have to return to my regiment soon."

"I shall be quite desolate without you."

"Ah...." Replied Fitzwilliam and stirred his horse forward.

Anne really had no experience in this kind of thing, so she had no idea she was as most people would call it chucking a 'Caroline Bingley'. She just thought she was doing something wrong and would have to consult someone more wise in the ways of men, then herself.

Chapter 15

Posted on Wednesday, 1 March 2000, at 5 : 04 a.m.

Kitty and Charlotte both went to sit in one of the small sitting rooms. Charlotte had never been a particular friend of Kitty's but she did not think ill of her. Charlotte was however a little surprised that Kitty had married so well. Both ladies sat there sipping tea for quite a while, until a nurse brought in Lewis.

Suddenly it seemed to Charlotte that Kitty brightened up. "Is this your son Charlotte? How old is he?"

"Nearly one."

"And you are expecting...."

"Yes, the doctor confirmed it."

"Really, may I hold him?"

Charlotte nodded and Lewis was deposited on Kitty's lap. The way Kitty appeared to be looking at the child aroused some suspicion in Charlotte's mind, but she decided against saying anything, Kitty was not Lizzy.

Richard scrambled his way around the pond. It had been his favourite haunt, he remembered the time he had pushed Anne and Catherine into the middle of the water in a boat. He chuckled as he remembered the abuse Catherine had screamed at him from her helpless position. It was the last time he could clearly remember his father. He had come down to the lake and stood at the side severely reprimanding Catherine for being so unladylike and that how could she ever think that anyone would marry her.

George Darcy had come down to the side of the lake too and watched with some amusement as his wife tried valiantly to prevent her sister from overturning the boat. Then to add to the enjoyment Edwin had joined them all. The three gentlemen plus Richard had stood yelling directions at the women on how to get the boat back to the edge.

Richard flung himself on to the grass, remembering the look on several of the servants faces as they watched the master and his sons yelling 'Right, Right! Not LEFT! Row! Row! Heave! This way, This way. Not INTO the reeds." Finally his father had told the servants to fetch them off the lake and he returned to the house.

Richard had enjoyed that escapade because everyone found amusement, excepting Anne and Catherine of course and he hadn't got in trouble. Even Edwin had told him that it was a jolly good joke and given him money for some sweets.

Richard's trip down memory lane was interrupted by Catherine walking down to the bank. Richard leapt up and smiled at her, they hadn't had a chance to talk much recently, but sometimes talk was overrated.

"I've been thinking about that afternoon, do you remember when I pushed you and Anne out into the middle?"

Catherine turned to him and nodded, "I do."

Richard walked right to the waters edge. "Richard!" exclaimed Catherine, Richard turned around to face his sister.

Before he knew what she was doing she had placed two hands on his shoulder and pushed violently.

Richard plunged underneath the water gasping he pulled himself upright in water up to his waist.

"I never did get you back for that you know." Remarked Catherine.

Lady Catherine was shocked, she really did not know what had overcome her, she had just pushed her brother into a pond. Lady Catherine's head reeled. She watched as Richard held out a hand to her, she very stupidly grasped it and suddenly felt herself waist deep in water.

"You! You!............" she spluttered.

"Really fascinating?" smiled Richard

"Have you any pride? Are the shades of Matlock to be polluted? You obviously have unlearnt all the claims that you were bred to!"

"Sis, You pushed me in remember?" replied Richard calmly.

"But But!............" Lady Catherine could think of nothing to say, a very, very rare occurrence indeed. Suddenly she had an idea.

"You pushed me out into the middle of a LAKE!"

"That was almost 30 years ago! And if I recall YOU decided to throw out my cricket bat!"

"It was old, falling to bits!"

"It was MY cricket bat."

"Well who decided to lock me in my room??"

"You deserved that, you were going to stop Anne talking to George."

"It was highly improper, they weren't even engaged!"

"So? I seem to remember you flouncing around with the gardeners boy at one stage."

"THE GARDENER's BOY?? How DARE you! I have you know I was discussing border arrangements."

"Border arrangements? A likely story."

"I shall box your ears!"

"Yes and the last time you did that........"

"You destroyed my dress!"

"I did not, it wasn't my fault Hunter got to it."

"He was YOUR dog!"

It was to Edwin that the duty of showing Mr Collins around Matlock, fell to. He commanded his wife to accompany him and they had shown him all over the house. Mr Collins had been in raptures over the portrait in the great hall. It was the one taken in 1788. Edwin managed to pull him out into the garden, only to hear constantly about what kind of garden Lady Catherine had and how condescending and wonderful she was to give him advice on his small parsonage garden.

So it was rather a shock to Edwin to find his brother and sister climbing out of a pond while screaming at each other. Harriet was appalled, she quickly rushed over to them demanding that get inside before they catch their death of colds. Mr Collins took off to the house in such a state that you would think that they were both at death's door.

The two person's who all this fuss was made over, ignored everyone else and were continuing the sibling fracas. Edwin could not help but smile it was almost like old times. No one's tongue was sharper than Lady Catherine's and no one could beat the whiplash of his brother's. They had been somewhat unevenly matched before due to the age of Richard but now they seemed quite evenly matched.

Servants appeared out of nowhere and rushed the dripping siblings off to the house, Edwin elected to remain by the pond for a while, lost in thought.

Fitzwilliam took after his grandmother in appearance and in spirit he took a great deal after his Aunt Anne and grandfather. Horrie took after Edwin and Spencer in appearance but resembled his grandmother and Aunt Catherine and Uncle Richard in spirit. Darcy was his father to a tee, Georgiana was her mother to a tee. Lady Catherine was her mother in appearance but her mother's temper and spirit seemed to be quadrupled in her. Anne de Bourgh was like her father, but was too hen-pecked for it to be obvious who her true nature resembled. Andrew was Richard through and through, and Bonnie appeared to be Grace the second. Richard looked like his father and mother and resembled a mixture of their tempers.

Edwin thought, who did he take after, he looked like his father and if he had to say so, he though he had a great deal of both his parents in him, only a lot of his nature had to be put aside for the good of the family.

For the good of the family ~ Pwah. Edwin picked up a rock and flung it into the pond. For the good of the family, always for the good of the family.