Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter Nine

Posted on 2013-04-20

The house was in uproar. Kitty thought it was usual for the uproar to happen when there was a departure, not an arrival. Lizzy and the Gardiners were expected later in the day. Mrs Bennet of course had convinced herself they had overset themselves even though it would be impossible to expect them for hours yet.

Lydia had taken refuge outside, playing shuttlecock with the Miss Gardiners while the boys trundled along with their hoops. Kitty played with them for a little bit, and sensed Lydia softening a little towards her. Kitty moved away after a while not wanting to risk upsetting their new détente… that and she wanted to go to Lucas Lodge.

Mr Bennet would not let her go without one of her sisters, which made things difficult. Lydia was not an option, and it would be wrong to ask Jane. Jane would no doubt find herself incapable of refusing but she would wish to be there when Lizzy returned. Kitty had noticed that Lizzy's last letter had not been read in its entirety to the family. Jane had been very secretive with it, though she had assured Kitty that Lizzy was still in ignorance of what had occurred in Brighton.

So it must be her experiences in Lambton, which apparently was not five miles from Mr Darcy's estate. Knowing Lizzy's opinion of that young man and Lizzy's ability to jump to judgement the letter could contain anything. However, this only left Kitty one sister, Mary, who in the end was surprisingly malleable to a walk to Lucas Lodge.

She would not be so malleable if she knew Kitty planned on abandoning her to hear all the news from Lady Lucas while she raided Sir William's library. It was easy to execute this plan by pushing Mary closest to Lady Lucas while she begged Sir William's permission.

"You wish to see my library? Capital! Capital!"

"Not just see, Sir William, I should like to borrow some books if I may?"

Sir William was overjoyed at the idea that somebody should wish to borrow from his library. With Mr Bennet in the neighbourhood, it was very infrequent that anyone should praise his library, as Sir William was known to only keep a library because a gentleman should have one.

"Are there any in particular I should help you ferret out?"

This was the tricky bit. Kitty knew if she asked for Debrett's peerage, it would become an object of gossip for he would tell Lady Lucas - and indeed the whole neighbourhood - who would then speculate on precisely whose entry Kitty Bennet wished to look at and whether she had met them in Brighton.

"Some novels about the seaside…." It was a terrible fabrication but Sir William did not notice.

"Of course you should wish to mediate on happy memories," smiled Sir William, bustling about. "I am not sure that I have any of those, of course some of the girls could have easily purchased some."

Kitty smiled. "Well I should not wish to keep you, I am sure I will find something…."

"Yes, I do not expect your father keeps many novels in his library."

"No. He approves of them, but not for himself. I think perhaps I hear Lady Lucas calling for you?"

Sir William often did not take the hint but this time he did, allowing Kitty to find Debrett's peerage of which Sir William had several; however, he also had a book that looked as if it had not even been opened so new was it, called 'The Peerage of England'. Kitty took that book and then returned to the sitting room.

So after three quarters of an hour listening to Lady Lucas, Kitty and Mary escaped, with Kitty carrying four books in her large reticule, three of which she had no intention of reading.

"Did you get what you came for?" asked Mary peevishly.

"Yes!" smiled Kitty.

They did not use the main drive as they returned to Longbourn and as such did not realise that the Gardiners and Lizzy had returned early until they entered the house and stumbled upon the uproar.

Mrs Gardiner's wish to be with her children had prompted a precipitous departure from their inn that morning; indeed Mr Gardiner was telling Mr Bennet that he hoped not to many items had been left behind as Mr Bennet shepherded his brother-in-law into his library, firmly closing the door behind them.

While Kitty wished to run upstairs and consult the peerage, she also did not want to be the last of her family to hear about the delights of Derbyshire.

Except when Kitty and Mary entered the sitting room, Kitty clutching her books to her chest, Derbyshire was not the topic of conversation. Instead Mrs Bennet was lamenting the roads, and imparting the gossip of the past month. Lydia was clearly bored and took the opportunity to snatch Kitty's books.

"Why on earth would you borrow this from Sir William?" Kitty tried to snatch the peerage back from her sister, blushing under the observation of the room. Clearly her reading choices were of more interest than the fact Mrs Long had repapered her parlour.

"I thought since Lizzy and my aunt and uncle had visited Blenheim and Chatsworth that I could examine..."

Lizzy smiled, "We did not meet the owners; we were quite poor tourists, we only met housekeepers."

"We did meet one owner at his grand estate," said Mrs Gardiner with a smile.

"Oh who?" cried Mrs Bennet, always on the alert for possible single rich young men no matter their station.

"No one, Mama," said Lizzy with a blush. Kitty had rarely seen Lizzy so disordered in her reaction to a simple question.

"I am not sure Mr Darcy would like to be thought of as no one, Lizzy," added Mrs Gardiner. Kitty thought she had a sly look about her and watching Jane's reaction to this raillery, Kitty wondered what on earth had happened upon their journey and what Lizzy had written to Jane.

"Oh, Mr Darcy! He is nothing to any of us, I'm sure. A ruder, more unpleasant man I have not had the pleasure to have met," said Mrs Bennet dismissively. "Lizzy had much rather gone to Brighton with Lydia and Kitty if she wanted to meet young men."

Kitty froze, surely her mother was not about to discuss Mr Wickham? It would be inconceivable for all that they were a family party. She had, however, overestimated her mother's sense.

"If it wasn't for a small obstacle which we are all convinced will be soon overcome, Lydia would be Mrs George Wickham by now!"

"Oh yes we expect my dear George any day now, Aunt," added Lydia, remembering Mr Wickham's existence.

Kitty's reaction of horror was overshadowed by Lizzy spilling her tea all over her dress.

The resulting confusion lead to the break up of the gathering and an abrupt end to the conversation. Mrs Gardiner, Jane, and Lizzy disappeared upstairs and Lydia took the opportunity to lure her cousins outside with promises of more games. Mrs Bennet went to lure her brother from the library as he had not yet heard about Mrs Long's new wallpaper.

Mary took to her pianoforte and Kitty slid the peerage onto the table.

At first she had little success, the listing appeared to be in no order she could discern. Really Kitty should have asked Maria Lucas the name of the earldom while she was at Lucas Lodge; surely with Mr Collins such a fact should have arisen. She ran her eye down the contents and immediately found the Earl of Fitzwilliam and congratulated herself until she read further and realised they were not the right family.

She then had to apply herself to the contents list and she was lucky that the author had chosen to link the surname to the title.

Then she wished she had picked up the older Peerage - from what she had seen from flicking through, it had been briefer and to the point. This author spent some time diving into the history of the family. The general description of the reasons for the granting of the Earldom was of little interest, Kitty skipped straight to the details of the current earl and his family. There he was with his dates of birth and marriages. Two issue from his first marriage when he was quite young to a young lady who seemed to be of inconsequential birth (her father was a mere "Mr"), and two issue from his second very well-connected wife who still lived. Kitty felt a pang of sadness for two little boys who had lost their mother so young; she hoped their stepmother was a kindly woman who didn't promote her own son's interests over those of her stepsons.

The line that Kitty was dreading, that of a marriage of the Earl's eldest son, did not exist. She knew it meant nothing for herself. It was a foolish fantasy. How foolish was borne in upon her as she read the history of his family. What had the Bennets ever done? They had farmed in Hertfordshire for generations - well, her father had spoken of his grandfather owning Longbourn but that was as far back as she knew. The peerage spoke of events in the time of Henry the Eighth!

There was no more discussion of Mr Darcy or his estate of Pemberley at dinner that evening. It seemed that the Gardiners and Lizzy were doing everything to avoid discussing the man. All other moments of their journey were dissected minutely, as they no doubt would be again and again over the coming weeks. But of Pemberley there was nothing. Lambton and Mrs Gardiner's childhood nostalgia was discussed at length but there were gaps in their retelling. Kitty noticed this and wondered that no one else remarked up on it.

Nor was there any discussion of Wickham, but that was not surprising although Kitty wondered when Lizzy would be told of Brighton. Lizzy's reaction to Mr Wickham led Kitty to believe that her sister had prior knowledge of Mr Wickham's bad character and had chosen not to share with anyone but possibly Jane. Considering the matter further while moving potatoes around her plate, it was likely that Jane had already spoken to her aunt and Lizzy about the Brighton incident when they had gone to change Lizzy's gown. It would certainly explain the looks being sent her way by her aunt.

After they retired for the evening, Kitty went in search of Lizzy.

"Lizzy?" Kitty stood watching Sally brushing her sister's hair. Kitty held out her hand and took over. "You were not burnt by the tea?"

Lizzy wasn't stupid; she knew Kitty hadn't come to discuss her mishap, but the reason for it. Lizzy shook her head and remained silent.

"Did you know about Mr Wickham?" If Lizzy was pretending to be obtuse, Kitty would be blunt.

"Yes. I knew of his instability of character. If anything further had happened to Lydia in Brighton, it would have been my fault for not exposing his character."

"Why did you not? Expose his character, I mean."

"I did not think I should be believed."

That was true. Mr Darcy was so universally despised and Mr Wickham so universally liked in the county that to try to turn the tide would have been impossible. Kitty would not have believed him but Lizzy should have tried.

"Is Mr Wickham daily expected?" said Lizzy with a face. "Jane says no one but Mama and Lydia has any real thought to it, but … "

"No, even Lydia - I think - has forgotten him except for the fact he is the reason Papa is curtailing her access to society … except of course when Mama reminds her of his existence like this afternoon. It is Mama who truly expects, but her mind will be moved the moment some other young man pays serious attentions to her daughters."

"Jane tells me that Colonel Fitzwilliam discovered you in Brighton? I think you were very lucky with your rescuer. I cannot think of a better man."

"Was it from him that you heard of Mr Wickham's character?"

Lizzy nodded. Kitty would have asked her sister more explicit questions but Jane interrupted them. Jane would have gone away immediately, but Lizzy asked her to stay.

"No, come in, Jane, Kitty was just helping me with my hair."

"It looks very pretty," smiled Jane before sitting upon the bed. "You wanted to speak to me, Lizzy?" Jane sounded confused: when had her closest sister requested an audience? They always spoke to each other before bed.

Lizzy shot a look at Kitty before speaking. "My Aunt and I - we did not say anything before or in my letters, but Mr Bingley was at Pemberley."

Jane took a deep breath and played with her nightgown for a moment before replying, "Well. You can hardly expect that Mr Bingley should affect me now."

Kitty found herself sharing an unbelieving look with Lizzy.

"Oh, you do not believe me," said Jane.

Lizzy shook her head. "No. I found him just as amiable as ever and he asked quite explicitly after you. First quite subtly but at our dinner at Pemberley we were seated together and he - I believe he is as much in love with you as he ever was."

"Which cannot have been very much," said Jane. "And you have just confessed your first impressions have been so faulty recently."

"Well if I was mistaken at his feelings before, then I cannot be now. Just as if I were mistaken about Mr Darcy's goodness … " Lizzy broke off. "Well. There was some talk of returning to Netherfield to shoot."

"Should they come to Netherfield, when they have access to much better shooting elsewhere?" Jane smiled. "And you say that I think too well of people."

It turned out that Jane was wrong. Less than a fortnight after they farewelled the Gardiners back to London and close to the date the shooting season traditionally commenced, they were alerted to Lizzy's prediction coming true by an excited Mrs Phillips, who brought the news in her traditional subtle style.

"Mr Bingley brings a large party."

"If it is only men we shall not see them much, Aunt; they shall be too busy with their sport," said Lizzy.

"Oh but Mrs Nicholls informed the butcher that he should be careful with his cuts as Miss Bingley and her sister will also be of the party."

Jane blanched; there would be no escaping the acquaintance. Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst might cut Jane in London, but in Hertfordshire they could not expose themselves thus to the neighbourhood.

"Yes, and more are joining the party: Mr Hurst, of course, and Mr Darcy."

Now it was Lizzy's turn to change colour, much to Kitty's curiosity.

"And I believe some of Mr Darcy's cousins may be attending."

Kitty was glad no eyes were on her, because she was sure she blanched and flushed as much as her sisters had. Was it possible? No, Mr Darcy must have many male cousins, who were happy to shoot in such indifferent country as they had little other opportunity.

Chapter Ten

Posted on 2013-04-26

Kitty was distracted from her nerves and daily expectation of news from Netherfield by her father noticing her raids of his library.

She found him peering at the stack of books in her room.

"Did you enjoy all of these?"

Kitty shook her head, "I made myself read at least a quarter of each, but I'm afraid I did not finish a great many of them."

Mr Bennet made a clucking noise and wandered away.

She was left in suspense as to whether her father approved or not, until he beckoned her into his library just before breakfast the next day.

"I have arranged these shelves," he said gesturing at five shelves. "I think you should confine yourself to random selection from these. There should be fewer catalogues of butterflies."

Kitty still did not know if he was teasing her until she looked at what books he had chosen. Some were serious studies in various subjects and some looked rather silly. Kitty hugged her father, and waited the moment for him to cease to be surprised and hug her back.

"There, there…don't become too serious, though I suspect there will be a great amount of silliness now that Mr Bingley has come back."

"He's arrived?" How was the house still standing, thought Kitty, surely her mother should be here in the library berating Mr Bennet for not immediately visiting Mr Bingley?

Mr Bennet put a finger over his lips, but he went to his desk and picked up a letter - less a letter and more a note.

"Mr Bingley quite civilly wrote to me ahead of his arrival - which is either today or quite possibly yesterday evening; he was a little imprecise. I have not informed your mother. For what I hope are obvious reasons."

"Does he mention Mr Darcy's cousins?" Kitty tried to read the note.

"Mr Darcy's cousins - why such …oh if you are wondering if Colonel Fitzwilliam is of the party? He will not be, at least, he is not mentioned."

Kitty could hardly interrogate her father any further without betraying her real interest in Mr Darcy's cousins.

Suddenly there was a shriek from the upper floor, then a "Hill!! Hill!!" followed swiftly by a "Jane! He has come!!!"

Mr Bennet smiled, looking out the window. "It looks as though I shall not have to keep it a secret from your mother any longer."

Kitty rushed to the window, and indeed two men on horseback were making their way down the drive. One was indeed Mr Bingley in his blue coat, looking as cheerful as she remembered him. The other gentleman was a little harder to make out until they grew closer, and then Kitty recognised him as Mr Darcy.

Mrs Bennet threw open the library door, still with her hair tied up in rags. "Mr Bennet! Mr Bennet!"

"I see! I see!" was her father's response.

"And none of the girls are ready!"

"I am dressed, Mama, and Mary is certainly downstairs, too."

"Oh what are you and Mary to do with it? It is Jane! Jane!" Mrs Bennet did not stay to listen and ran back upstairs.

Kitty waited in the doorway to the library while Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy were invited to enter.

Mr Bennet went to greet them. "Welcome! It is such a fine morning I can see why you wished to rise so early to ride about."

Mr Bingley did not sense the slight rebuke, but Mr Darcy certainly did, grimacing.

"I was very glad to get your note, Mr Bingley; did you wish to come into my study?"

Mr Bingley stammered and blushed.

"Or would you like to be shown to the parlour, where my daughters may entertain you?"

"Oh the parlour…" Mr Bingley said immediately then checked himself, "not that your company is in any way deficient …"

"Not at all, a young man wants pleasant young ladies. Kitty? Remind the gentlemen where our parlour is."

Kitty was pleased to do so. Mary was practicing the pianoforte and did not seem inclined to cease, although she did briefly stand to curtsey to the gentlemen.

"Please take a seat. It is very good to see you again." Kitty was not sure what else she should say. Mr Bingley had always been a pleasant young man, but he had confined almost all of his conversation to her sister and Mr Darcy had once asked her to pass the salt.

They sat in an uncomfortable silence for several moments, punctuated only by Mary's attempts to master a concerto.

Mr Bingley leaned towards Mr Darcy and said something in a low tone that Kitty could not quite make out. She was sure she should not be straining to hear but she did anyway. She thought that Mr Bingley was chastising Mr Darcy for saying that coming so early would be fine. That did not make much sense to Kitty so she thought she must be mistaken.

"I believe you have been at Brighton?" said Mr Darcy with a slight clearing of his throat. "Your sister Elizabeth spoke of it at Pemberley."

"Oh yes. I have been at Brighton with my sister Lydia."

"Did you enjoy Brighton?" said Mr Bingley.

"Yes," said Kitty. She did not particularly wish to talk about Brighton.

"Did you go sea bathing?"

Kitty could have answered that question simply too, but she took some pity on the poor man and spoke at length about her hatred of sea bathing.

"My sisters have just been at Scarborough, although they join us tomorrow," said Mr Bingley. "You will be able to compare opinions upon the sea."

"Will your sisters be the entirety of your party?" said Kitty, she hoped not too eagerly, but Mr Darcy seemed distracted, looking towards the door and Mr Bingley was too generous to place a meaning on her question.

"Oh no, Mr Hurst of course comes too and Darcy's cousin, Frederick Fitzwilliam, came down with us, and we expect another of his cousins any day now."

Kitty's heart sank and then soared again.

Mr Darcy smiled, "I may have to fetch him from London."

That did not sound like the Viscount. He seemed very capable in Brighton, not at all like a man who would need directing from London to Hertfordshire.

"Is he not a good traveller?" asked Kitty.

"No, he is very well travelled. He is engaged with a party of friends to go to some races and I think he is liable to forget an engagement here."

Mr Bingley shook his head. "You are very severe upon your cousin! What could he object to? Finer countryside and prettier young ladies I have never seen."

Mr Darcy's mouth twisted, "You are not as well travelled as he." Then he froze, "Not that of course I mean any impunity upon …"

Kitty took pity on him, thinking Mr Darcy quite disordered, which was not how she remembered him. "I take no offense, sir. We are not well situated for sport… at least that is what I am told."

They spoke a little about sport before Mrs Bennet made her entrance, pushing before her Jane - dressed in her best morning gown - with Lizzy trailing afterwards.

Mr Bingley leapt out of his seat with welcomes and apologies tripping over themselves. His face lit up when he saw Jane, which was no surprise, and Jane rewarded him with one of her best smiles. Kitty did not think Jane even realised she had done so.

Mr Darcy stood more leisurely, but Kitty noticed he was watching Lizzy, who after meeting his eye did not seem able to meet them again. Kitty had no time to ponder their strange looks for Mrs Bennet took over the room with her effusions.

"I am so glad you are back at Netherfield, sir. They said you meant to quit the place entirely. I told them you were a sensible man and knew the virtues of Netherfield and its surrounds."

Mr Bingley nodded his vigorous approval of Mrs Bennet's sense.

"And now you will recall you promised yourself to dinner at Longbourn before you went away, I do hope you intend to keep your promise? You are not going to flit away again in the night?" Mrs Bennet gave a hearty laugh, and at least three of her daughters blushed.

"Oh no, I think we shall be here for some time; it is only the start of the shooting season after all."

"And when you have shot all of your own birds, I am sure Mr Bennet would be vastly obliged to you - and you, sir - " Mrs Bennet finally acknowledged Mr Darcy, "to help him with his."

"Oh that is an excellent idea, although there will be others of the party. I should hope they are welcome."

Mrs Bennet beamed glad Mr Bingley had brought up the subject, "Yes, I did hear in the village that Mrs Nicolls was preparing for a large party."

"At the moment it is just Mr Darcy's cousin, a Mr Fitzwilliam. But my sisters and Mr Hurst are expected any day now, and another of Mr Darcy's cousins may join us."

"If he remembers," added Mr Darcy drily, "and can get away."

"Why should he forget?" said Mrs Bennet, predisposed to find anything Mr Darcy said disagreeable.

"I am sure Mr Darcy's cousin's memory is not an insult to us." Kitty thought Lizzy sounded a trifle desperate in her reply.

"Indeed, my cousin is much wanted …"

"Well, I dare say we do not want him," sniffed Mrs Bennet, talking over Mr Darcy.

"- upon his father, my uncle the Earl of Matlock's business."

Mrs Bennet stilled. "Oh and pray, what is your cousin's name?"

"Lord Ashbourne ma'am."

Mrs Bennet made a strange face, which Kitty did not quite know how to interpret.

"Is he a young single man?"

"Mama!" Jane had flushed red. Kitty bit her tongue; she could have answered her mother's questions.

"I ask because an older married gentleman would, of course, find it difficult to move about the countryside. Young unattached men can do what they like." Mrs Bennet looked innocent. Kitty knew no one was fooled. Indeed Mr Darcy had stiffened; he now appeared much like the Mr Darcy who had come amongst them before.

"He is unmarried."

"And young?"

"He is older than me by some years," replied Mr Darcy.

Kitty wanted to announce Mr Darcy was lying. She did not know precisely when Mr Darcy's year of birth was, but the peerage was quite exact about Lord Ashbourne's and Kitty could not see how he could be much more than four years older than Mr Darcy.

Mrs Bennet subsided for a while, allowing Jane to turn the conversation to some innocuous subject or other for a moment or two, before realising that she had not asked about Mr Darcy's other cousin, the one actually in situ.

"And you did not think to bring Mr Fitzwilliam?"

Mr Bingley, who had been in the process of confirming that the weather and roads had held very well during their journey south, blinked at the swerve in the conversation.

"He is not an early riser," said Mr Darcy shortly.

"Oh, but we will see him soon, no doubt?"

"I understand he is Colonel Fitzwilliam's brother?" Lizzy spoke loudly. "The Colonel himself could not be spared from his duties?"

Mr Darcy had stood by this point and moved towards the window to stare out of it. He took a deep breath before turning back to the room.

"Yes, his regiment is in …" He broke off in a little confusion and Kitty knew he had been about to say Brighton. She could understand why no one of the Bennet family would want to mention Brighton, but why should Mr Darcy think it a sensitive topic to remind them all that his cousin was billeted in Brighton? He had little trouble mentioning Kitty's own visit to Brighton not half an hour ago. Unless Colonel Fitzwilliam had told his cousin about the elopement? Or Lord Ashbourne had. Neither scenario much pleased Kitty.

"He is much occupied with regimental duties," finished Mr Darcy.

"Mr Fitzwilliam is much closer to my age than Mr Darcy. In fact, I acted as somewhat of a guide to him while he was up at university," said Mr Bingley with genuine enthusiasm. "He is the Colonel and Lord Ashbourne's half brother from the second Lady Matlock and a livelier man I have never met! I wager he will dance enough for all the Miss Bennets."

Mrs Bennet made a sad sound. "I do hope there is a good provision for him. While I should have wanted a son…more than one causes such trouble when there is an entailment for they are forced to go into the professions, you know, and are at the mercy of the world. Sometimes the world can be very cruel." This seemed directed at Mr Darcy and caused Jane and Lizzy to wince.

Kitty thought they were right to be embarrassed by their mother, but she doubted Mr Darcy would make the connection and realise Mrs Bennet meant to rebuke him for his treatment of Wickham.

"It is such a fine day, we should perhaps take a walk?" said Lizzy, rising.

Mr Bingley looked towards his friend, who had resumed staring out the window, and back to the Bennets. "I think we have trespassed on your time, and I should not like to leave a guest alone for too long."

Mrs Bennet was all graciousness, although she did press Mr Bingley to stay a little while longer, and when he demurred that he could not, she made free with an open invitation to Longbourn.

After the gentleman had departed, Jane and Lizzy took that proposed walk in the garden. Kitty fetched a book from her father's shelves and told herself that it was just a coincidence she had picked a book about racing and sport. She could see her sisters from where she was curled up in the window seat.

At first they had their heads together, as they walked arm in arm, but then Lizzy broke off to pace about in an agitated fashion. Jane remained as calm as she ever did.

It was an odd scene; it was Jane who had just come face to face with her former love, not Lizzy. Jane should be agitated and alarmed at her mother's behaviour. Kitty knew that Lizzy felt deeply that Jane's hurts were her own, but this seemed ridiculous.

Chapter Eleven

Posted on 2013-05-04

No communication came from Netherfield the next day and Mrs Bennet was in agony. After such a prosperous start it could not again come to nothing!

Jane tried to soothe her mother by talking of herself and Mr Bingley meeting as common and indifferent acquaintance.

"Common and indifferent! He could not take his eyes off of you! And he came so early in the morning. No, it is that friend of his, I wager it. He is keeping your Mr Bingley from you!"

No amount of contradiction could make Jane convince Mrs Bennet that Mr Bingley was not hers in any way.

The second day fared much the same as the first and Kitty was glad she had her books despite Lydia deliberately calling her Mary the entire day. However, in the afternoon they had a letter from Netherfield.

Hill had waited until Mrs Bennet had left the sitting room to go and inspect some lace with Lydia with the design of making up a new gown for her favourite daughter.

"Miss Bennet? A letter has come for you from Netherfield."

Even Mary stopped to eye Jane over the pianoforte.

"Thank you, Hill."

Jane opened the letter and scanned it. "Oh, it is from Miss Bingley."

Lizzy rolled her eyes "And?"

"She apologises for not coming to see us, but she has injured her foot. She injured it stepping from the carriage and begs you and I to come keep her company tomorrow morning."

Lizzy's face twisted at the idea of spending the morning with Miss Bingley and her sister. "Are the gentlemen not sufficient company?"

"She says they are to shoot all day, Mr Hurst is most insistent, although it seems Mr Darcy has left for London."

Kitty was beginning to be suspicious of her sister and those suspicions seemed worthy when Lizzy's face fell at the news Mr Darcy had left for London. How had Lizzy changed her mind so completely about Mr Darcy after one short week in Lambton? Kitty wished she had paid less attention to officers and more to her sisters so that she would have been able to judge whether this reversal of sentiment was purely to do with Derbyshire or had been coming along since Kent.

"Mama will never forgive you if you do not go," said Kitty as her sisters were discussing the merits of accepting Miss Bingley's invitation.

"Mama does not need to know," said Lizzy showing how distracted she was to think such a thing would be possible to keep from their mother.

"Lizzy, if Miss Bingley is truly injured she will want for some company. We should not be so churlish as to refuse to give it to her."

"If Miss Bingley were a better person, she should not have cut your acquaintance in London," replied Lizzy who then regretted her sharp tongue.

It was then settled that Jane would write immediately to Miss Bingley accepting the invitation.

Only afterwards did Kitty think that she should have offered to go in Lizzy's place. Mr Fitzwilliam was at Netherfield and they had had no news of him except that he was blond. Her sisters would not think to ask him the right questions.

It took Mrs Bennet several hours to decide upon the best dress for Jane, and to agree that the invitation had not included Mrs Bennet herself. Then, when she remembered how poorly her second daughter rode, she wailed that they could not go upon horseback.

"It does not look like rain, Mama," said Lydia helpfully, "so it does not much matter how they go."

Mrs Bennet had to agree to this forecast and allowed them the carriage.

Mrs Bennet was forced to wait until dinner to hear about her daughters' visit to Netherfield. Lizzy and Jane had made a long visit and then returned home via Meryton.

"Well, girls?"

"Miss Bingley was all kindness," said Jane, taking a sip of her soup.

"What is Miss Bingley to us? What of the gentlemen, Jane, did you see the gentlemen?"

"Mother!" said Lizzy.

"Yes, Mrs Bennet, you once hoped that Miss Bingley would be to Jane as her sisters are to her, you can hardly call her nothing now," said Mr Bennet with a smile.

Mrs Bennet silenced her husband with a look. "What of this Mr Fitzwilliam?"

Jane laid down her soup spoon in surrender. "Mr Fitzwilliam is a very pleasant man. He is blond and has a pleasing countenance. He is Lizzy's age. They have discovered their birthdays are only a week apart."

"So he is not of age? That is disappointing. But well, if he is inclined to be agreeable and is not at all like his cousin Mr Darcy, then I will welcome him to Longbourn any day of the week. We have not had such young men since the militia went away."

"You forget that Lizzy's birthday is next month…you should not dismiss this Mr Fitzwilliam so easily."

Now it was time for Mr Bennet's eldest two daughters to stare him down.

"He is a third son, and if your estate is entailed away, you can be sure some Earl of Matlock did quite the same disservice to his family."

"It is not a disservice," said Mr Bennet. "It is to keep estates viable and intact. Now, now, Mrs Bennet, I grant you in our case it is a sad case, but my grandfather was not to know I would not have any sons!"

"Miss Bingley informed us that a small estate, similar to Longbourn, has been bequeathed to him through his mother's side. So he is quite provided for."

Mrs Bennet smiled upon her eldest. "Well, then I am very glad for Mr Fitzwilliam, very glad for him indeed."

Kitty noticed then her mother eyed herself, Mary and Lydia in turn, but she did not speak further on the subject of Mr Fitzwilliam.

"And Mr Bingley, did you meet him?"

"I expect he spent the whole time staring at Jane," said Lydia with a laugh.

Jane's answering blush was all the response that was needed.

"When shall you lure them all to Longbourn?" asked Mr Bennet.

Mrs Bennet made a clucking sound. "I had quite set a date with the cook when I recalled Mrs Goulding is having a card party."

"You could issue a rival invitation! What better way to test Mr Bingley's affection - hey, Jane?"

"Papa, we have already accepted Mrs Goulding's invitation."

"Yes, and it is a great pity that I did not accept for Lydia also, or the younger girls. Now they shall not meet Mr Fitzwilliam until goodness knows when. We cannot even meet at Church for they will not come all the way to Longbourn for the service."

Lydia and Mary did not feel much sadness at this pronouncement, but Kitty, who had a keen interest in comparing the young man to his brother, felt all the anguish her mother might hope.

"You forget, Mama, that Sir William is holding a dance for Emma, we shall surely meet them there," said Lizzy earning her mother's good graces and then displeasure when Mrs Bennet realised this was another evening she could not invite Mr Bingley and his party to Longbourn.

When Mrs Goulding had planned her card party, she could not have foreseen that her little party would become the talk of the neighbourhood, nor could have she imagined that those she had not issued invitations to would feel themselves very ill used.

It had merely been an informal party of friends, but when Mr Bingley had returned to the neighbourhood Mrs Goulding took her chance. Adding to her party caused much consternation amongst her servants and overset all her plans with regards to arrangements of the furniture and such like, but it was worth it to be the first party of the neighbourhood to entertain the returning Netherfield party.

They were found on the whole to be quite the same as before they quit the county. Miss Bingley, whose ankle was quite recovered, and her sister were determined to think themselves above their company. Mr Hurst only required some port, a sofa, and somebody to talk sport with. They were easily dismissed from the minds of the neighbourhood, who did not, it could be said, even miss Mr Darcy's absence.

Mr Bingley was found to be just as charming and easy going as ever, and just as in love with Jane Bennet as ever. They played every game together and, when they were not partnering each other in cards, sat closely beside the fireplace talking to no one but each other.

Frederick Fitzwilliam was the real prize and was found to be a young energetic man. He was declared handsome and well-mannered. He did not seem to find the company beneath him, and was happy to talk of things other than sport. He did not confine himself to speaking to one or two persons; instead he made himself acquainted with all, and he did not sneer at the stakes.

All of this Kitty discovered through various means and she managed to piece together a picture that was no doubt as accurate as any. It would have been better to have seen it all for herself, but Kitty felt secure in the knowledge that Mr Fitzwilliam did his brothers credit.

Kitty was content with this, but her mother was not content; in her mind Mr Bingley should have proposed to Jane in front of Mrs Goulding's hearth. Kitty escaped outdoors with a book.

She swung herself idly, becoming bored with her latest book which was about wealth. She had hoped it would be about how she could acquire wealth, but it seemed more about the nation.

Her sisters, all bar Mary, who was still at her pianoforte, had also escaped into the garden. Lydia was playing quoits and Jane and Lizzy were walking about together.

At length they walked close to her and, by virtue of Kitty pretending to be very engrossed in the production of labour, they forgot to lower their voices.

"Jane, you cannot still think he does not still admire you?"

"Oh no, I am sensible of his attentions, but, Lizzy, I was sensible of them before."

"I thought Charlotte a fool when she said one should show more than one feels, but there may be some truth in what she says, particularly for you, Jane."

"Particularly for me?"

"You are so very patient and kind to all, I imagine that to a gentleman who is equally as tender-hearted as you, it would be very hard to presume that you thought of him above all others."

Jane did not answer for a moment or two "I grant you there may be some truth, but I cannot act - I cannot be Lydia."

"No, no one is unaware of who Lydia esteems."

"Lizzy, do you think the Colonel spoke to Mr Darcy about Mr Wickham? Once or twice I suspected - "

Now it was Lizzy's turn to pause, "I had noticed, but I cannot think that the Colonel would - or at least I think he would conceal our names even if he wishes Mr Darcy to be aware of his former friend's behaviour."

"Then what else explains his odd behaviour, his coming here and going away so quickly?"

"It is not like you to be suspicious, Jane."

"It is not like you to be so secretive. Your letters from Lambton were so scant with detail. Was it very awkward to meet Mr Darcy again?"

"Oh no, he was everything that was kind and generous. I could not have been so generous in his place. To find actually visiting his estate, with no warning, the young lady who so vehemently refused him under such a misapprehension of his character? No, I could not have been so generous."

Kitty's reaction to overhearing this, was thankfully muffled by Hill's calling Jane inside to tend to Mrs Bennet.

Mr Darcy had proposed to Lizzy? When? It must have been in Kent, where she was then made aware of Mr Wickham's true character. Then to meet him on his estate, which she was visiting as a tourist?

Now that was certainly the plot of a romance novel.

Mrs Bennet's hopes were raised further still when Miss Bingley and her sister, accompanied by Mr Bingley, came to call.

"Although, I think it a great pity that he should have brought his sisters; there will be no possibility of them speaking alone."

"That is why they have come, no doubt," said Lizzy but as only Kitty was sitting near her, she did not think the rest of the room heard her sister.

The visit was promising; while Miss Bingley and her sister found it necessary to talk a great deal about their London friends, Mr Bingley still had eyes only for Jane.

Kitty noticed that Miss Bingley was just as determined to paint Mr Darcy as being surrounded by eligible young ladies as her brother. She wondered if Miss Bingley was jealous of Lizzy and knew of the proposal. Just what had happened at Pemberley? Certainly not as painful a reunion as Jane and Mr Bingley had to endure under the regard of heir mother.

"Mama, perhaps we could take a walk? It is such a fine day," Kitty found herself suggesting.

Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst disclaimed any desire for themselves, but enthusiastically supported the Bennet sisters' removal.

"I should like a walk," said Mr Bingley. "If you do not mind, Caroline, Louisa, you may take the carriage back when you have finished talking with Mrs Bennet. I am happy to walk back to Netherfield."

"We can walk you half way to Meryton!" said Lydia.

"Indeed, Miss Lydia! That is a grand notion!"

Mary stayed at Longbourn, but the other sisters walked slowly behind Jane and Mr Bingley.

"This is no good," said Lydia in a not very soft voice. "We should walk in front of them for we will walk much faster and they shall fall behind."

"Lydia!" hissed Lizzy.

"Lord, Lizzy, do you not want Mr Bingley to have an opportunity to propose?"

Lizzy frowned at her youngest sister, but then made a decision, and the three of them linked arms to overtake Jane and Mr Bingley and practically march into town.

"Well then, if he has not taken the opportunity, he never will do so," said Lizzy with a sigh as Lydia ran off to find some ribbons or someone to gossip with.

"I expect he will; I expect that was his design this morning but his sisters spoiled his plans."

"Hateful women."

"Why do you dislike them so?" asked Kitty as they continued upon the high street.

"They have forgotten how to associate with us poor commoners," was Lizzy's response.

They stopped to look in a shop window, when Kitty heard her sister being hailed, and turning she was confronted by Mr Cheveley. His spots had certainly cleared up and his jacket fit a little better, but it was certainly Mr Cheveley.

"Miss Elizabeth, it is fortunate that we meet again and this must be one of your - " Mr Cheveley stopped and stared at Kitty. Kitty found herself incapable of doing anything but the same. What was Mr Cheveley doing in Meryton and how had he become acquainted with Lizzy?

Lizzy sensed Mr Cheveley was not going to speak further and took up the slack, "Yes, Mr Fitzwilliam, this is my sister. Kitty, may I introduce Mr Fitzwilliam?"

"Mr Fitzwilliam?" said Kitty faintly.

"Yes, Mr Darcy's cousin?" Lizzy's tone rather suggested she thought her sister had lost her faculties.

Kitty looked around for any support, for Mr C- Fitzwilliam seemed loathed to provide it; he was instead staring across the road and Kitty followed his gaze. He was looking at his brother, Lord Ashbourne.

If Kitty had any doubt of Mr Fitzwilliam's identity, the look of unholy glee on Lord Ashbourne's face put it to rest. That was certainly the face of a sibling who had just triumphed in discomforting a brother.

Chapter Twelve

Posted on 2013-05-11

The awkwardness between Kitty and Mr Fitzwilliam remained for some moments longer until Lord Ashbourne chose to cross the street whereupon Mr Fitzwilliam was obliged to introduce Kitty and Lizzy to his brother.

Lord Ashbourne inquired of Lizzy (to Kitty he showed no particular attention) where they were walking and offered to accompany them. Since Lizzy had no definite destination except to allow Mr Bingley time enough to propose it seemed as if they were to continue to walk through Meryton towards Netherfield. His lordship naturally fell in step with Lizzy leaving Kitty to walk with Mr Fitzwilliam.

They outpaced their companions a little, and once Kitty was sure she was out of range of Lizzy's sharp ears, she allowed her outrage to burst forth.

"Cheveley!"

"My estate." He sounded most apologetic.

"Do you often accost young women under a false name?"

"No! No I…well you are acquainted with my brother are you not?"

"With both of them, I do not see how that absolves you!"

"They both of them have such address and are so much older…I merely require some practice, and if I used my real name, it should get back to them."

"Then your brother was not with you - not assisting you in your -" That had been Kitty's first thought; that it had been a scheme, a prank, and she had been the easy prey allowing both brothers to laugh at her.

Mr Fitzwilliam laughed. "Good gracious, no. My brother has no trouble introducing himself to young ladies without any schemes. You can be assured I was quite severely lectured. You see I can talk to you now without any silliness. I always can when there aren't pretty young ladies…it is just with the pretty ones where I fall all to pieces." He sounded mournful.

"Your brother taught me an excellent method of dealing with impertinent men. Should I employ it now?"

"Why? Oh! …No, obviously, I found you a pretty young lady, but then well…the moment was spoiled." Mr Fitzwilliam looked behind him.

"Well, I was very glad for his intervention," said Kitty pertly.

"Most women are," said Mr Fitzwilliam in a rather forlorn tone, and Kitty couldn't suppress her laugher, but then she became more serious.

"It was still very ill-done of you."

"I know. I did not mean…" Mr Fitzwilliam tugged at his cravat. "I am afraid I did not realise how my actions would be interpreted. As I said, I am not very well practiced and I thought … I have been taught to understand the impropriety and error of my thinking, and I certainly do not mean to terrify young ladies. I thought I was being masterful and charming. I do apologise, most sincerely."

Kitty's feelings towards him softened. "You certainly need practice at addressing yourself to young ladies. Luckily, there are many young ladies in Meryton who are happy to have a young man's attention - even his studied compliments. I may, if you are very nice to me, introduce you to them."

They began to come to the outskirts of Meryton and Kitty turned to see what Lizzy would say now.

"Well here we must part ways," said Lizzy with a smile, and Kitty wondered what Lord Ashbourne had been saying, how he had been charming her.

Lord Ashbourne looked around in some puzzlement, "This is your destination? No, I cannot have you think so ill of my brother and I as to not allow us to walk you properly to the door, so to speak. I am not entirely without country manners."

"We are walking about only to allow Mr Bingley time to propose to our sister, Jane. We have no destination, except at some point we must find Lydia and return to Longbourn," said Kitty; she couldn't quite help her smile.

"Kitty!" Lizzy looked alarmed.

"Then clearly it is our duty to walk you back into town," replied Lord Ashbourne.

Despite Lizzy's protests both gentlemen did just that, and Kitty walked closely behind her sister and shamelessly eavesdropped, but they were not talking of anything of particular interest: Meryton and its inhabitants. Lord Ashbourne had been invited to Sir William Lucas' dance and was asking about who he might encounter there. Mr Fitzwilliam seemed content to walk in silence.

They met some of the younger Lucas boys who had been to visit the sweet shops, who informed them that Lydia had returned to Longbourn with Maria. Of Jane and Bingley they had seen nothing.

"No doubt they are either walking the charming country lanes or have returned to Longbourn," said Lord Ashbourne with a smile.

Lizzy gave a small curtsey, "Indeed, we shall not trouble you any further." With that remark she practically dragged Kitty in the direction of Longbourn. Kitty was allowed to turn briefly and wave but that was all.

"Kitty! You should not talk of our private concerns."

"You think Mr Bingley will not propose?"

"That is not the point!" Lizzy continued her rebukes until they reached Longbourn and they were greeted by Maria and Lydia.

"Mr Bingley has proposed!" said Maria sounding more excited than she had when her own sister had become engaged.

Lydia looked put out that Maria had been the first to meet them; she made up for it by regaling them with the details of the case, which were as much as Lizzy and Kitty had surmised.

Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst had left not five minutes after the party had set out for Meryton, which was also not surprising.

Mr Bingley had immediately applied to Mr Bennet, who was very happy to give his consent and Mrs Bennet was planning a grander dinner than ever before. Mr Bingley had apparently stayed for a little while and then was reminded that he must return to inform his sisters.

"It is such a pity that your first appearance as an engaged couple must be at a dance given by Sir William Lucas."

Jane briefly wondered if it could be kept private until afterwards, for it would be unfair to Miss Emma Lucas. If Jane was not the best of women, it might be suspected she wished to draw attention to herself. Mrs Bennet gaped at such a ridiculous notion from her eldest, after all, when she had time to reflect she comforted herself with the notion that Jane would be quite the belle of the ball, and here was her eldest daughter talking of secrecy! Jane's reaction to her mother's new way of thinking was to turn quite red.

"No one will suspect you, Jane," said Lizzy in a low voice, "and I do not think you can keep your engagement secret not even for one day…" Lizzy shot a reproachful look at Kitty which Kitty chose not to acknowledge.

They sat there talking wedding plans until Mrs Phillips burst in on them.

"I had to come the minute I heard the news."

"Good heavens, it has not made Mertyon already? Mr Bingley has only just proposed!" cried Mrs Bennet.

"Mr Bingley has proposed? Oh Jane!" Mrs Phillips fell upon her niece.

"Did you not know, Aunt? Then why have you come?" said Lydia.

"Mr Darcy has returned to Netherfield and brought his cousin."

"The viscount?" Mrs Bennet sat further forward in her seat, Jane's triumph momentarily forgotten.

"Indeed. A handsome young man, much younger than I supposed, after all he is from the first marriage, I understand. I only saw him from the window, but I am surprised your daughters have not given you a better description."

Mrs Bennet turned to stare at Lizzy, Lydia, and Kitty.

"Lord, I did not see him, Mama," said Lydia.

"He was with his brother, Mr Fitzwilliam, who greeted Lizzy so civilly. By the by, what do you know -"

"What do I know?" said Mrs Bennet annoyed at her sister's way of prolonging her own enjoyment at Mrs Bennet's expense.

"Off walked this happy little quartet; they must have done a lap of Meryton. He seemed quite taken with Lizzy."

Kitty gripped her hands in her lap and looked to her sister.

"If you mean he was polite enough to discuss with me how I found the countryside and whether he was likely to get any good sport…then, Aunt, I confess," replied Lizzy archly.

Mrs Bennet sensed that Lizzy would not oblige her further, so she busied herself interrogating her sister. Lydia joined in that pleasant task, but gave Kitty a winking look and Mary sat herself at the pianoforte, judging that her mother would not complain of a headache.

Jane crossed to Lizzy who grasped her hand, "I am sorry that the subject has turned from you, but I guess you are not."

"I am not. But, Lizzy, have you made a fine conquest?"

"Not at all. His manners are extremely pleasant. He presents himself far better to his inferiors than his cousin did at first. But there is something wanting in seriousness, I think."

Kitty wanted to contradict her sister, as she knew Lydia could also, but she remained silent. Lord Ashbourne had not acknowledged their prior acquaintance; he would doubtlessly not acknowledge Lydia's either.

"You are severe. Perhaps you do not wish a certain gentleman to think you prefer his cousin," said Jane.

"Not three hours engaged and you have become bold," was Lizzy's response.

At length there was nothing more to discover about Lord Ashbourne so the talk returned to the wedding. It was to occur at the end of September after the banns had been called. Now all that was to be decided was where they were to honeymoon and for how long. Kitty hoped Jane would have some say in the matter; it did not seem to be the case as Kitty lured Lydia from the room while the rest were distracted in choosing destinations.

"Lydia, Lord Ashbourne did not acknowledge our former acquaintance. I beg that you don't … "

"I doubt I shall speak to the horrid man. If he had not come along, I would be Mrs George Wickham."

"Lydia. If he had not come along, you would be very unhappy indeed. There are handsomer and richer men in the world than Mr Wickham, who are not likely to spend all of the money you could spend on gowns on gaming tables."

Lydia looked as if she might actually take that into consideration. "Perhaps. If Mr Wickham had abducted me, it might even have been quite thrilling."

Kitty did not follow her sister's train of thought at all. "I beg your pardon?"

"A handsome viscount, riding to my rescue - he apparently stopped for pistols in case Wickham should have objected."

"Was not Colonel Forster with him?"

"Oh yes, but who would put a pudgy Colonel into the story?"

That Kitty could not argue with, she was just happy that Lydia would not expose herself the following night. Mr Bennet had, as they had all expected, forgotten his former strictures and all of the Miss Bennets were to go to the dance.

Emma Lucas was a charming girl between Lydia and Kitty's ages, and was just as pliant and good natured as her sister, Maria. She also had Charlotte's common sense. Thus, she was not at all upset that the room spoke almost universally of Jane and Mr Bingley's engagement. They were all atwitter to see Mr Bingley's party arrive and the expression upon that gentleman's face.

They were not to be disappointed. Mr Bingley was all smiles and stepped first towards Jane. She was his only focus. His sisters, however, looked as they ever did, though they exerted themselves by smiling at Jane. Kitty did not think them pleased with the connection, but they clearly realised their brother was not to be swayed and he could hardly turn back now without losing honour.

Lizzy whispered something very similar to her while they stood by the punch bowl. Kitty wondered if Lizzy was hiding from Mr Darcy who had reappeared as quietly as he had disappeared, and was standing silently behind Jane and Mr Bingley. He looked neither unhappy nor happy.

Sir William Lucas descended upon the other two members of Mr Bingley's party, and drew them into conversation.

Kitty watched, and thought she heard the words 'St James' Court' and knew it to be true when Lizzy cringed beside her. Then he waved Emma over towards them, and introduced her. She wondered if Sir William had connived at the next outcome, which was that Lord Ashbourne asked if Miss Emma had any dances available to him.

He was scolded. This was a country dance and no one organised such things so early! Emma could oblige him with any dance, indeed. So Emma was to be belle of the ball once more, with their handsome new acquaintance leading her out to open the dancing.

Kitty was so engrossed that she did not notice Mr Fitzwilliam cross to her.

"May I have the honour of the first dance?"

She looked at his outstretched hand suspiciously. "Is your dancing better than your flirting?"

"Infinitely. And Ash made me practice the steps before we came."

Kitty could not prevent her laughter and allowed Mr Fitzwilliam to lead her into the dance.

She observed, as did everybody else, Lord Ashbourne and Emma dance down the set. They were well matched - for what did the younger Lucas girls have to do, as they were not out, but practice and practice all of their social graces?

Several times during their own dance Mr Fitzwilliam scolded Kitty for paying too much attention to their companions and not enough to himself; yet at the end of the dance he petulantly requested another dance at some later point in the evening.

"For you did not even notice the trouble I took over my steps!"

Kitty was asked to dance the second by one of the older Lucas boys, and as she agreed she kept half an eye on Lord Ashbourne tempting Jane to dance with him.

"You cannot dance every dance with your fiancé, Miss Bennet, it would be unseemly."

Young Rupert Lucas did not mind Kitty's distraction; he was young enough that his chief enjoyment at a dance was the dance itself.

Her next partner, a young clerk at Uncle Phillips', expressed some impatience with her. Kitty was normally such an obliging and perfect partner, but tonight she was distracted. Lord Ashbourne had next asked Lizzy to dance. She heard him ask, and then tease Mr Darcy into asking her to stand up with him for the following dance.

Mr Darcy had not stood out on the side as he once had done in Hertfordshire. He had danced with Miss Bingley, but he had done as much at that first Meryton Assembly. Kitty remembered everyone acknowledging that while dismissing him as rude and disobliging.

All she could think of while dancing with Mr Parker was that if Lord Ashbourne was making his way through the Bennet sisters, there would be one more dance before he would approach her.

Indeed, Lord Ashbourne approached Mary next, and Kitty moved closer under the pretence of wishing to see what the next dance was likely to be. A short break had been called due to some of the flooring becoming wet due to an unfortunate collision between a young Lucas and some punch.

After an introduction from Lizzy, Lord Ashbourne civilly requested Mary's hand for the dance that was just forming.

"No," said Mary bluntly.

Lord Ashbourne seemed taken aback, and Lizzy looked mortified. Kitty was feeling much the same.

"Thank you," added Mary, "I take no pleasure in dancing." She was, no doubt, glad she could now sit out the rest of the dances with no hope of her mother finagling someone to ask her to dance.

Mrs Bennet seeing this altercation swiftly came over, "You see, your lordship, my middle child is very serious. She would prefer to play for us all, but my next daughter - Kitty, come here child!"

Kitty did not much wish to come here, but she joined her mother.

"Kitty is an excellent dancer -" Mrs Bennet looked in expectation at the viscount.

"Then I should be very happy to accept Miss Mary's preference and dance with Miss Kitty instead."

Why had her mother not called her Catherine? Catherine was a fine name; Kitty was childish and silly, and would, no doubt, remind him of that foolish child standing on a dark street in Brighton.

What should have been utter joy was tinged with some misery, as Kitty was never sure whether he would have asked her next if her mother had not interfered. She had not a clear confirmation that he liked her well enough to dance with her.

Chapter Thirteen

Posted on 2013-05-18

"And he danced every dance," said Mrs Bennet the following morning, addressing herself to the only occupant of the room that had not been at Sir William's … who was also the least interested. "Never with one young lady more than once though, which is a pity."

Mr Bennet sighed. "I really wish he had sprained his ankle in the first dance."

"But to be so charming! So unlike his cousin! I suppose we should have known from his brother's manners."

"So he has read Lord Chesterfield's advice and never gives offence or acts above his party?" said Mr Bennet, smiling at Lizzy, who giggled into her handkerchief. "Well, it is nice to know that rich young men are not all proud and disagreeable." That Lizzy did not laugh at.

"Mr Darcy behaved better," said Jane. "He danced with Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst, and also one with myself and Lizzy. He even asked Emma to dance but all her dances had been claimed."

"Well, it is only because his cousin shows him up, I dare say, and he does not have ten thousand a year." Mrs Bennet grew agitated.

"A penniless heir!" cried Mr Bennet.

"You misunderstand me, Mr Bennet," said Mrs Bennet.

"Wilfully!"

"Of course, he is heir to a much grander estate; perhaps one should say estates…"

"And the amount to keep them up is probably equal to their income," said Lizzy, lightly trying, Kitty thought, to change the subject.

"Nonsense, Lizzy!" said Mrs Bennet.

"Either way I do not think one should have any hopes there, Mama."

"Why should that be?" Mrs Bennet did not like aspersions thrown upon her daughters, even by one of those daughters.

This would have descended into an argument if Lady Lucas had not called with her daughters in order to discuss the party.

As Maria was claimed by Lydia, Emma clung to Kitty's side as they walked about the garden.

"I thought I might faint when I was lead out to dance by a lord! Mama says not to refine upon it so much, and of course I do not, but he was so very civil. He asked so many questions about the neighbourhood. What did you speak about in your dance?"

Kitty had wanted to keep that to herself. They had talked about books, almost as if they were continuing their conversation as they had walked along the Steyne back to Colonel Forster's lodgings. There had been no explicit mention of Brighton, but they had not stopped speaking the entire dance.

"Books," replied Kitty.

Emma made a face. "Books in a ballroom! I expect your taste did not much match! What did you speak of in your dance, Lydia?"

Lydia turned from where she was plucking at some flowers while giggling with Maria. "I danced every dance, which dance do you mean?"

"The one with Lord Ashbourne," said Maria, "Who else?"

Lydia laughed. "Oh we talked about sport. I fancy he is a very good shot." Lydia winked at Kitty, who had to turn away. "Why not tease Kitty about Mr Fitzwilliam? He danced with her twice, and they looked so intimate."

"Oh yes, Kitty. Such a handsome man, and I heard him talking to Papa about Cheveley. It sounds like it would be such a charming home," said Emma slyly.

Kitty did not understand why they should want to tease her. Mr Fitzwilliam and herself had squabbled during their second dance as he had not quite the right steps or energy, and she had all but ignored him for the first.

"You seem so familiar with him already, as if you already know him," said Maria.

"Ridiculous," was all Kitty could say, but the three girls would not stop their insinuations and giggling. She had to retreat into the house and be forced to sit through talk of weddings to escape.

It seemed that the Lucas girls' misapprehension was shared by others. Kitty had been greatly admired outside Church the next day, and she had never paid more strict attention to the service.

Kitty had thought that Jane's triumph would be the talk of the village; she had underestimated the village's enthusiasm for love. One marriage always begat another was their hope. So, of course, their eyes turned towards the next possible match. Under almost any other circumstances, and before her trip to Brighton, Kitty would have been pleased to be the source of so much attention.

Mrs Bennet was as good a housekeeper as she was a gossip and she had taught her all her daughters well; for if they had no fortune, they must bring something to the marriage beside their face. Mrs Bennet was not so romantic as to think, probably from her own circumstances, that physical attraction could be the only hook to a harmonious marriage. Mary and Jane were the two daughters who most assisted their mother in the running of the household; Jane because she was the eldest and most biddable, and Mary because Mrs Bennet reckoned that she required extra assistance in the marriage market. Though it must be said that Mrs Bennet rarely suffered her daughters' interventions, particularly with regards to the seating arrangement

Mrs Bennet intended to spend the rest of the day finishing off her plans for her grand dinner, so Kitty offered her services to her mother as a distraction from the torment of everybody asking her about Mr Fitzwilliam …. and earned a grateful look from Mary, which was a rare sight indeed.

So it was a quiet Sunday afternoon that passed as Kitty listened to her mother's changing mood for the dishes and Hill's quiet reminders that it was a little too late to be changing dishes entirely. Then her mother moved on to entertainment.

"Of course, if we should want it we can throw back the rug and dance, but we had much better play cards, I think. Kitty, run and see if we have any new card packs. Remember, it always looks very well to have new card packs upon the table."

It was during her search for card packs that Mrs Bennet fixed the one aspect of the dinner party that Kitty had really been trying to influence.

"Mama!" She looked at the little card places and how her mother intended to arrange her guests.

"Do you think we ought to arrange the table by precedence? There is only Sir William and Lord Ashbourne and it would so upset my table! How is one to manage it with the rest of the ladies and gentlemen? No, it will not do. This arrangement is much better."

Kitty looked at the placements; she had been placed next to Mr Fitzwilliam, "But, Mama, look: if we just … "

"Why are you moving yourself away from Mr Fitzwilliam, child? My daughter is not a simpleton, I hope? You cannot tell me you have taken him in dislike? Why do all my daughters take their suitors in dislike?"

"Jane did not …"

"It took Mr Bingley long enough; I am not taking any more chances."

No amount of persuasion could convince Mrs Bennet that Kitty felt nothing for Mr Fitzwilliam.

The party from Netherfield arrived very early, although Kitty was surprised Mr Bingley was not even earlier. Since he had proposed, they had only not seen Mr Bingley the day before and that was most likely because it was a Sunday.

"Why have Miss Bingley and her sister come so early?" said Lydia, "They would better have come in a later carriage and not bring their glum faces to spoil our fun."

"Lydia! Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst are - " Jane's attempts at remonstrating with Lydia fell on deaf ears, for Lydia moved away.

"Jane, you are not deceived by them either, I hope; if it were just your Mr Bingley, they would not have come early. If Lydia wants to blame anyone, she should blame the single young gentlemen," said Lizzy into Jane's ear with a smile. Then Lizzy made a silencing gesture at Kitty before laughing.

Indeed, Miss Bingley had drawn her chair particularly close to Lord Ashbourne's. Mr Darcy was not forgotten by her either, so Miss Bingley was forced to split her attentions.

Mr Bennet was the most put out by the early arrivals, for he could not hide in his library for as long as he might have wanted. He stood by the fire - removing a position for Mr Darcy to lean and glower- and poked at it occasionally.

"What do you have there, sir?" Mr Bennet said suddenly to Mr Fitzwilliam.

Mr Fitzwilliam smiled. "It is a parcel, Mr Bennet."

It was indeed a small parcel tied up with brown paper and string.

"Have you bought your own dinner?" continued Mr Bennet. "I can assure you Mrs Bennet keeps a good table, whatever her other faults."

Mr Fitzwilliam laughed. "No, it is not I assure you. It is a gift - a loan I should say - for your daughter."

This exchange was only part of the general conversation in the room … except with that phrase, Mr Fitzwilliam and Mr Bennet's conversation became the focus of the room's attention.

"I have several, Mr Fitzwilliam."

"For Miss Catherine."

Kitty could not have been more confused as she received this token. Usually she could unwrap very well, but her fingers almost failed her. Finally she managed and revealed a novel. It was a handsome volume, not pasteboard at all; it had been redone in leather.

She turned the volume to see the title embossed in gold. It was the very novel she had discussed at Sir William's dance. It was a book she had most wanted to read. She had heard it spoken of and read about it and had very much wished to read it, but it was not in Sir William's library or her father's or the circulating library. Except she had not discussed this book with Mr Fitzwilliam; she had discussed it with Lord Ashbourne.

Kitty did not know which way to look; Lord Ashbourne was not even looking at her, but everyone else was looking at her expectantly.

"Mr Fitzwilliam, this is a very generous loan. I shall endeavour to read swiftly."

"There is no rush, Miss Catherine," was his response.

The conversation moved on but Kitty could not recover her composure. Was he teasing her? And which 'he' did she mean?

Her thoughts remained disordered, partly because her mother kept giving her encouraging approving looks which were not at all subtle, and partly because Mr Fitzwilliam sat next to her.

They did not speak until Lizzy, who had been changing seats every five minutes, sat with them. Kitty did not know why her sister could not sit still but she wished her very far away.

"You enjoy novels, Mr Fitzwilliam? That is certainly a recommendation."

"I do indeed. I prefer them to my studies."

Lizzy interrogated Mr Fitzwilliam for a moment longer before more guests arrived and soon they were summoned to dinner.

Mrs Bennet arranged it so that Kitty ended up being led into dinner by Mr Fitzwilliam.

"I never spoke to you about novels. I would assume your taste quite lacking."

"I find your taste quite lacking. I would much prefer to be reading a magazine. It looks a dreadful book: do you not wish to sleep, Miss Bennet? And what a title!"

"The Orphan of the Rhine? What is wrong with such a title?"

"Are they always orphans? They always are and very rich and pretty and put upon."

There was nothing Kitty could say to this because it was entirely true.

Mrs Bennet had found a horrid epergne and placed it upon the table to show that the Bennet household was quite up to the task of entertaining the heir of an earldom, and marrying into the wealth of the Bingley family. This epergne, apart from its hideousness, had the unintended consequence of meaning that Kitty could not see Lord Ashbourne from where she sat. Dinner quite spoiled in her mouth. Her only comfort was continuing her aspersions of Mr Fitzwilliam's taste in novels and his inarticulate defence of himself.

"You see," Mrs Bennet spoke loudly, "he gave it as a loan. A gift would be too much too soon. But you see…" She was addressing Mrs Long and Lady Lucas, but all the other ladies could hear her. Kitty was just glad the gentlemen were sitting awhile over their port.

Kitty was mortified, but her mother would not be silent. Jane came immediately to sit by her, understanding at once Kitty's feelings. Jane spoke quietly to her about nothing in particular until the gentlemen came in, and then Kitty released her as it was obvious Jane did not wish to be anywhere but by Mr Bingley's side.

Mrs Bennet's talk was muted slightly, but Kitty heard her quite distinctly thank Mr Fitzwilliam for his generosity to her dear girl.

The table with coffee and tea was right behind the sofa upon which Kitty sat and she became aware of a conversation.

"Do you think this quite wise…" It was Mr Darcy. Kitty refused to turn around to see whom he was speaking to.

"Sugar in your coffee? I do not prefer it, but if you do - "

"Talk sense, Ash. Your brother…and his…offering."

"You sound as if he were a priest."

"This society has certain expectations which are being raised."

"This society? All society, I think you will find …"

"In town, such flirtations can be seen as what they are - here…and it is not … "

"He is of an age; she is of an age, what is there to object to?"

That did not seem to be the answer Mr Darcy wanted, but he clearly dropped the conversation or they moved away and spoke lower, because Kitty could not hear any more.

Kitty stared at the novel as it lay beside her bed. She had little interest in it - what was a most anticipated read was now a leaden feeling in her stomach. Mary had taken more interest in the novel, flicking through some of the pages, even pausing once, before laying it back on the table.

Did Lord Ashbourne think Kitty preferred his brother? Did he think she should prefer his brother?

Had she given that impression? She certainly could speak with ease and without reservation with Mr Fitzwilliam. He was handsome, but she felt no attraction to him. It was if he were the brother her parents had longed for.

How had it all become such a muddle?

Chapter Fourteen

Posted on 2013-05-25

Kitty slept very ill and rather stupidly, for she had fallen asleep lying on the novel that caused all of her torment. As a result, a red mark was on her face and after it caused some comment at breakfast, she skulked in her room, staring at the offending object.

Mr Bingley called as he always did, and Kitty thought little of it until she looked out of the window to see that the other gentlemen from Netherfield had come and they were all walking on the lawn.

There was a moment of indecision in front of the mirror, before Kitty hastily rearranged her hair to cover the mark and ascertained that it was indeed fading. Then she launched herself down the stairs and into the garden.

She realised as soon as she got there that she had miscalculated. Nothing would confirm the gossip than her sudden abrupt appearance. No one would realise who had brought her downstairs.

"Miss Kitty!" cried Mr Bingley, coming towards her with a beaming smile, "just the very person!"

Kitty was never the very person, so she accepted Mr Bingley's arm with some bemusement.

"We have been talking about having a picnic. It has been such good weather and it seems a pity to waste it! There are some objections, but I know you will support me."

"Who would object to a picnic?"

The rather stern looking countenance of Mr Darcy answered her question. He was awkwardly standing apart with Lord Ashbourne. Apparently, Lizzy had been entertaining Mr Fitzwilliam. Lydia was nowhere to be seen and, of course, Mary was inside playing her pianoforte.

"I do not object to a picnic. I merely commented on the effort that much be expended and the … "

"Yes, for we have no legs to walk upon, nor arms amongst us to carry the rugs and baskets. You are very right, Darcy." Lord Ashbourne clearly did not object to a picnic.

"I suspect Miss Bennet," Mr Darcy nodded at Jane, "would plan a more refined picnic than ones we enjoyed as children. I was thinking more of the picnic we enjoyed with Miss Bingley. That was a lot of planning and work and I should not think …"

Kitty was surprised that Mr Darcy had ever been a child who enjoyed picnics and wished to hear more, but the rest of Mr Darcy's thoughts were cut off.

"Caroline may prefer carriages and servants and tables and chairs, but the Miss Bennets are hardier women! As, I suspect, are the other young ladies in the neighbourhood; no, a picnic is a very pleasant idea. I shall undertake to plan it myself if that is your objection!" Mr Bingley cried, very pleased with his idea.

"Mr Bingley, I would be very glad to plan a picnic, though I should prefer carriages to walking," said Jane.

"Oh no, I suggested the picnic…" Mr Bingley let go of Kitty's arm to go to argue with his fiancée about who should take the most responsibility for organising the picnic.

Kitty could not help rolling her eyes and found Mr Fitzwilliam and Lizzy at her side.

"They are a well matched pair - " said Mr Fitzwilliam.

Lizzy laughed, "Indeed, we shall never have our picnic organised, for they will claim the most trouble for themselves until…winter at least."

"I think not, Miss Elizabeth," replied Mr Fitzwilliam. Kitty did not understand why she got to be Miss Kitty whereas her sister managed not to have her nickname bandied about by all and sundry.

"You think they will come to some conclusion?" Lizzy sounded surprised.

"No but …" was his rather cryptic response as he nodded towards his brother, who seemed to be intently studying a notebook with a pencil which he had produced from somewhere.

Lizzy and Kitty did not understand his meaning until several moments later his lordship spoke.

"Saturday! We shall leave from Netherfield. Seems as good a day and place as any; we must hope for continuation of good weather. I have here a list of what seems to me to be the principal guests - or at least those who would be most offended if left out of the fun. You shall have to check my list, Miss Elizabeth, you will be practical but not as kind hearted as your sister so we shan't have the entire population hereabouts with us. We will have perhaps a manservant, and we will all take a great quantity of simple food and some rugs, and thus all we have to do is organise the carriages and placate the cooks. Et Voila."

The entire party was impressed at his lordship's command of the situation; all except Mr Darcy, who opened his mouth to voice some objection but was hushed.

"And those who find it too childish can stay home with a book."

Lizzy was summoned to examine the list. Kitty felt a sharp pang of envy; she could have easily checked the list! Then she realised she was standing next to Mr Fitzwilliam, looking for all the world like a couple, and excused herself to tell Mrs Bennet about the proposed picnic.

That did not improve her spirits because Mrs Bennet gave her a great deal of advice about how she should give Mr Fitzwilliam the wrong directions, for of course Kitty would be taken to the picnic in his curricle all by herself.

It was Jane who recollected that evening that they had not even chosen a location for their picnic.

"The viscount quite forgot that!"

"Well, we could not expect him to arrange everything," said Lizzy with a laugh, "Although I suspect he is used to arranging everything. Miss Bingley will be very put out with him."

"Where should we go?" said Jane, frowning over this difficult decision because it would not do to pick a location disagreeable to anybody.

"The river!" said Lydia. "I long to see water again. And we have not been since we were children. Why did we not go to the river again?"

"That is because I have tried heartily to forget the time I had the pleasure of transporting a family of five troublesome girls to a spot where they tried their hardest to drown themselves," said Mr Bennet from behind his newspaper.

"I do not think any of us likely to do that again, Papa," said Lizzy, for once in charity with Lydia. "The river would be just the thing."

Even Mary joined in and went and found the book that had amused them as children with the plates of nearby attractive vistas. It was an agreeable evening and not a man was mentioned.

Kitty went to bed in a better frame of mind, but she was still no closer to her goal. She could not attend the picnic with the misapprehension - which existed in one or possibly two gentlemen's minds - still in existence.

She also did not know whether she was going to make a fool of herself and expose herself to complete ridicule. Before she blew out the candle, she turned the offending item over in her hands, and at length opened it. She would have devoured the novel the moment she had placed her hands on it under any other circumstance.

She glanced at the frontispiece and laughed. She perhaps was not entirely a fool and she determined she must speak with Lord Ashbourne immediately.

This plan she was thwarted in when Mr Bingley was the only gentleman who visited Longbourn the next morning. He too had realised they had not picked a location and was thrilled to discover the Miss Bennets had hit upon the very notion.

He - or Miss Bingley, rather - had been busy and written up all the invitations which he was intending to deliver. It would be the work of a moment to add the prospective location to the cards; after all, the important point was the gathering at Netherfield before they set out.

Mr Bingley had brought a little trap, clearly with the hope of inviting Miss Bennet to join him in issuing the invitations. Kitty saw her opening. "May I not come with you and Jane, Mr Bingley?"

Mr Bingley saw his vision of a day cuddling his beloved disappear like a puff of smoke, but he was too good to deny Kitty. As a reward Kitty did not wedge herself between them, despite her alarm at the way Bingley drove the trap; at several points she felt as if she would bounce right out.

Kitty was forced to listen to their pretty speeches to one another and traipse around the neighbourhood issuing invitations. She only realised half way through that there was no reason to deliver an invitation to Netherfield! How stupid she had been!

"Should we not go to Netherfield so Jane and Miss Bingley can consult on the food preparations?"

Mr Bingley could not find any objection to a plan which allowed him to spend more time with Jane, and Jane, despite a crease in her forehead at Kitty's suggestions, could not but agree that it would be politic to coordinate with Miss Bingley.

The men were out shooting. Of course they were out shooting. Kitty felt she had descended into a farce worthy of the stage where nothing went well for the heroine.

Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst were not happy to see them; they, of course, thought that Jane had come to assert her authority as the future Mrs Bingley. That made Kitty sure of their ill-judgement, the idea that Jane would or could usurp anybody's position was laughable.

Mrs Hurst was particularly bored of the idea of a picnic and suggested Kitty should like to take a turn with her in the shrubbery. Kitty wondered if Mrs Hurst wished to speak to her, but no, Mrs Hurst was happy to walk this way and that not saying very much at all.

Until they heard some raised voices that sounded very much like a squabble; Kitty knew what squabbles sounded like, she was one of five sisters. Mrs Hurst, despite her having a brother and a sister, did not seem to know and was disconcerted.

"Really, Charles hires the strangest groundsmen. I shall have to speak to him about it, but he will not turn them off!"

Mrs Hurst took a moment to decide whether she wanted to turn away from the sounds or walk towards them, and finally marched in the direction of the noise crying, "Hie there!"

Her planned lecture of unruly servants died upon her lips, as the gentlemen in question rounded the corner and proved not to be groundsmen, but Mr Darcy and his two cousins locked in an intense debate.

"I do not know where you learned to shoot but … "

"You taught me."

"Someone must have untaught you. It was unpardonably …"

"I do not know what has you in such a pique, it was my hat that he almost - Mrs Hurst." Mr Darcy stopped short first, coloured and bowed.

Mrs Hurst smiled. "Oh dear, have you finished for the day?"

"Mr Hurst is still out with the dogs, but we have indeed," said Lord Ashbourne.

"Well, look who has come to pay a visit and discuss our picnic. Mr Fitzwilliam, you see Miss Catherine is here."

Of course Mrs Hurst used her proper name, thought Kitty in annoyance, but only to couple it with insinuation.

The three gentlemen bowed in her direction. Kitty took her chance, inadvertently helped by Mrs Hurst taking Mr Darcy by the arm, and put herself between the brothers.

"Did you not have a good day's shooting? I thought I heard that your brother did not do you credit?" Kitty ignored Mr Fitzwilliam's exclamation.

"My brother is young, he will learn," was the viscount's response.

"Indeed, he is very young," Kitty hoped he felt her emphasis.

"I thought you were fond of me," said Mr Fitzwilliam, "but now you insult me!"

Kitty did not think he was really insulted, but did not wish to lose his friendship. "Oh no, I think of you as quite a brother." That was a good word. "A brother."

"Oh, well, you quite treat me like my siblings do already…dreadfully ill."

Kitty could not help but giggle, but then she felt Lord Ashbourne begin to slip away and she grabbed his arm. It was not the way to recommend herself by digging her fingernails into his flesh, but she had little option.

"Do not go, my lord, I have not thanked you."

"For what, Miss Bennet?"

"For my book."

"You confuse me with my brother," Lord Ashbourne spoke distinctly and slowly.

Kitty smiled, "I do not think I do." She spoke just as distinctly and slowly.

"I was there, Miss Bennet; I recollect my brother handing over the present."

"And I recollect, my lord, that it was with you that I discussed The Orphan of the Rhine."

Lord Ashbourne did not look discomposed, but Kitty thought she sensed a twitch in his cheek.

"I must have mentioned it to my brother, and he thought what a good thing it would be to furnish you with the novel, so he discovered a copy."

"You are a very obliging brother."

"I am, Miss Bennet, I am."

"You must be very obliging to allow him to send to London for your own personal copy."

"My personal copy?" Lord Ashbourne gave a startled, disbelieving laugh. "Whatever do you mean?"

"It has your name in it, you see," said Kitty innocently.

Mr Fitzwilliam was suddenly indisposed with a fit of coughing and dropped behind.

"Ah."

"Ah indeed," replied Kitty. "As you said, you are an uncommonly good brother. Mr Fitzwilliam, on the other hand, delights in your discomfort."

"I hope you are enjoying the novel."

"Oh, I have not started it - " said Kitty blithely, "but now I will."

Read it she did. She managed to read it twice before the picnic and she congratulated herself on only spending a very small amount of time staring at the inked name on the frontispiece.

Her luck held, as did the weather, and Mr Fitzwilliam did not come in a curricle; his brother did. She, however, was not the lucky lady seated beside him; that honour went to Miss Bingley.

Kitty was forced to sit in a carriage with all of her sisters. But it was a start.

Chapter Fifteen

Posted on 2013-06-01

Early indications were that the picnic would not be a success. The problem was the addition to the party of elements that were not disposed to picnic: namely the sisters Bingley and Mr Darcy.

At least Mr Darcy demeaned himself enough to lay out the rugs and then took himself off to walk along the river bank. Miss Bingley and her sister seemed determined to complain about everything. It was partially their attitude that made the party decide to explore first and eat later. They split into two parties: the gentlemen, who walked in Mr Darcy's direction, and the ladies, who went the other way.

Miss Bingley and her sister might sit stiffly on their rug, parasols at the ready, but the other young ladies were choosing to disport themselves. Except for Mary, but that did not even need saying.

Lydia had taken off her shoes first, and then, with a sly glance back towards the party, had disappeared around the bend in the river a little way. When the other young ladies had followed they had found her without her stockings.

"Lydia, put on your - the gentlemen could…" Jane was shocked.

"Then I shall be in the river and they shall not see my bare legs," retorted Lydia, hiking her dress up and splashing in the shallows.

"That is hardly any better!" said Lizzy.

None of Lydia's usual romps had been invited to the picnic; however, the Miss Lucases, Gouldings and Longs found Lydia's vitality just as irresistible as any other young lady.

"You must stop the gentlemen coming to see, Lizzy!" said Emma Lucas; she too shucked off her shoes and stockings.

"How am I supposed to do that, pray?"

"Tell them we are bathing!" said Maria with a laugh, pulling one of the Miss Longs into deeper water.

"I think that is likely to have them descend upon us with alacrity," retorted Lizz,y but she saw she was fighting a losing battle and eyed the water with some thought before looking back towards their picnic spot with some distress. Jane retreated, most likely to guide the gentlemen away.

Kitty found herself walking further along the river, away from the girls who were now giggling and splashing and likely to draw a crowd no matter what Jane or Lizzy could do. She, herself, was not in the mood to be merry. Nor was she particularly in the mood for mud in her stockings. But the water did look tempting.

She sat down on an obliging log, readied herself and waded in. It was a mistake; this part of the river was not as shallow, it also seemed to be made up of a great deal of sandy silt which Kitty found herself trapped in, holding her skirts very high indeed. Then she tried to extricate herself and a sharp pain emanated from her ankle. Kitty gave a little shriek.

"Miss Bennet?"

Kitty wondered what ill star she had been born under and looked up to see Lord Ashbourne standing on the river bank. There was a brief consideration for spoiling the very fine fabric she had brought in Brighton - it had been 2 shillings a yard - before she dropped her skirts into the water.

"I think I have hurt my ankle," said Kitty, feeling quite stupid once again.

"I think river bathing suits you as ill as sea bathing," was his lordship's reply before he waded in to her rescue.

She did not faint, which was, she understood, the expected response to being swept up into someone's arms. She did not even feel slightly lightheaded when he placed her on that obliging log and asked permission to examine her ankle.

"Yes, I think you have done some damage to it, Miss Bennet."

Kitty peered down at her ankle, which did not look red or bruised or swollen in any way, but it had been a very sharp pain. "Do you think?"

"Undoubtedly," said Lord Ashbourne who did the most extraordinary thing and tugged at his cravat until it gave way and then he set to work binding up her ankle. "Now, Miss Bennet, I think we must think of a way to get you back to Longbourn."

"It is lucky then, sir, you have a curricle," said Kitty.

Lord Ashbourne smiled. "I do have a curricle, and I am a very safe driver."

"Are you much better than Mr Bingley?"

He looked aghast. "I am offended you would even think - I see that I must prove it." He held out his hand to help her stand up. "No, do not put any weight upon it." He picked up her shoes and stockings, causing Kitty to blush a little, and gave them to her, before picking her up.

"Have you had much practice?" Kitty could not imagine her father being able to carry young ladies around in this fashion with such grace. She could not imagine Mr Darcy either. He would be stiff and make the situation more awkward.

"In carrying young ladies?" Lord Ashbourne sounded surprised.

Kitty had meant in carrying young ladies, but upon reflection it probably was not a line of inquiry she wished to follow. It was not proper and she thought she did not want to know how many ladies he had carried about so effortlessly in his arms. She feigned shock.

"In the binding of ankles, my lord!"

"I was in the army briefly; one learns a little about injuries there."

They re-entered the clearing where the picnic had been set up, and no one was present except Mary and the gentlemen brought to see to the horses.

"You there, Samuel, is it? Could you bring my curricle around?"

"Yes, my lord," Samuel ran to re-harness his lordship's horses.

Mary stood up, gaping at the very improper sight in front of her. Clearly Fordyce had given her no instructions on how to deal with this situation in a ladylike manner.

"Ah, Miss Bennet, your sister has injured her ankle and we must return her to Longbourn. You will accompany us."

As it was not phrased as a question, Mary could not answer; instead she continued to stare as Kitty was placed in the curricle.

"If you would wait here, although you can hardly go anywhere, I shall go tell your sisters that we are leaving."

Kitty only remembered that he would be inserting himself into a frolic of young ladies as he was already striding off.

"Kitty, what have you been doing? Did you allow him to ... "

"Shush, Mary, and climb in. I was paddling and hurt my ankle. All the other young ladies took advantage, why should not I? And I didn't mean to let anyone see anything!"

Mary made a sniffing sound but did not object. After all, Mary's idols would have objected strongly to a young lady making a long journey in a curricle alone with a man unrelated to them. It was Mary's duty to accompany them back.

The curricle was moving smoothly but rather slowly, Lord Ashbourne nobly sacrificing speed and a demonstration of his true ability for the sake of Kitty's ankle. Of this Kitty had no doubt; she had seen - or rather not seen - his journey to the picnic. He had set the pace; Miss Bingley had looked positively thrilled by his side.

"Have you finished the book my brother lent you?"

"Yes," Kitty chose not to contradict him on the source of the book. "It makes me wish I could travel."

That made the viscount look away from the road, "I cannot think the type of travel a heroine of a novel is subjected to can be very pleasant."

"Obviously I would prefer not to be kidnapped and confined in a carriage, but to be able to see - they speak of the landscape so vividly. It sounds so different from England! Although I expect it will never be possible to see it."

"Why ever not?"

"Well, the war." Kitty did not mention the cost of such an expedition, which was surely beyond her family's means.

Lord Ashbourne's brow furrowed, "Yes, we have been at war for most, if not all, of your life, have we not?"

Kitty could only agree to this statement and they trundled along in silence for some moments. She cursed herself for bringing up a subject that could only highlight the differences in their age and station.

"I went to France in 1802," said Lord Ashbourne unexpectedly, most likely from the fact it would be uncomfortable to not say anything at all for the rest of their journey. "During the peace, I think everybody did! It was not the Grand Tour of my father's day but I think it sufficed."

"Did you see the Rhine?"

"I think I did, I confess that some of the rivers all ran into each other," he gave a little chuckle at his pun.

"You should have paid more attention." It seemed unfair to Kitty that someone who had all the privileges of life should not appreciate them.

"If I had known I would be quizzed on the beauty of the Rhine, I most certainly would have."

"Did it have any effect?"

"The Rhine?"

"Your travel, I can only imagine it would provoke - " Kitty stopped. She didn't want to say her brief travel from home had changed her. It would remind them both what had occurred to make Kitty see the world in a different way.

"Well I joined the army much to my family's joy and despair." At her quizzical look he continued. "Joy that I found some occupation and despair that it was so dangerous."

"Surely you had some occupation before? You were twenty-two!"

"Was I?" He said with amusement.

Kitty felt herself growing red with mortification. There was no way she should know Lord Ashbourne's precise age, no way that reflected well upon herself and her curiosity.

"I was at Cambridge, although I suspect that was not much occupation, at least not as you mean. Darcy, I believe, is the only one of my acquaintance who gave that institution the reverence it deserved. I lasted less than two years in the army." He gave a laugh. "India is not a climate suited to my constitution. I think I would have lasted less if not for Wellington."

"India! Oh now that is most unfair!"

"Unfair? Hot, I should call it."

"That you should be able to travel the world, whereas for me it is the peak of possibility to go to Brighton and see the sea!"

"Another thing Mary Wollonecraft should discuss," replied Lord Ashbourne. Kitty had known it before now, but it was another certain indication that he too thought of Brighton and of that moment they had met before she had exposed herself and ruined his good opinion.

Mary gave a start at the name of Wollstonecraft. Kitty had quite forgotten her sister was there, even though they were quite wedged together - Kitty had tried to keep some distance between herself and the viscount but it was not entirely possible, otherwise she would need to sit upon her sister.

"Miss Bennet, you do not approve of Miss Wollstonecraft?" Lord Ashbourne addressed himself to her sister.

Mary was even more overcome at being asked her opinion than Kitty was when Lord Ashbourne had carried her about so effortlessly. Mary stuttered for a moment before indicating her preference for Fordyce and Hannah More.

"Your father, an earl, should surely agree with me."

"There you may be wrong, Miss Bennet; my father is quite a revolutionary." At their look of incredulity he continued, "Now, he will not be walking up to lay his own head upon the guillotine any time soon, but as my aunt puts it, he fell into quite the wrong society when he was younger. I think he continues his beliefs and his funding of certain experiments just to horrify her and allow him an excuse not to pay court at Rosings every year."

"You did not pay court at Rosings with your brother at Easter, either." As Kitty had already betrayed her interest, she chose not to hide it any longer.

"No, you will find that being known for only caring for one's own amusement is very useful." He smiled at her and Kitty could not help smiling back. The moment was spoiled by Mary pointing out they had just missed their turn.

"It is too narrow to turn around, but never fear: I know another way back to Longbourn, if your ankle is not troubling you too much to journey a little while longer?"

Kitty did not even feel her ankle and told his lordship not to even consider it an obstacle.

"So your father is a scientist?" Kitty was confused as to what revolutionary tendencies the Viscount was referring to.

"Just so. Well, he has some aptitude, but what he really did have was money and status."

"Surely Lady Catherine could not object to the advancement of England!"

"To the advancement of England, no, but the fact my father fell in love with one of the daughters, a woman of little importance to anyone who looks at pedigree and wealth, now that was a strong objection."

"He married her despite his family's objections?"

"He was of age and had already inherited; he did not need to think of anyone but himself."

Kitty did not know what to say. Discussing Lord Ashbourne's mother was surely not a happy subject.

Kitty was not close to her mother, but she did not wish to think about losing her.

"My father redeemed himself with the present Lady Matlock. There was some worry that Richard and I would grow up quite wild without respectable female guidance."

"She is - " Kitty did not know how to ask if Lady Matlock had been a welcome addition to the family. Lord Ashbourne and his brother must have been very young when their mother died, she wondered if they even remembered her.

"She is the best of women. She undertakes to keep up our good name in London as long as my father does not explode the greenhouse. Or allow any of his friends to do so."

"I believe, my lord, you have just missed the next possible turn," said Mary flatly.

Lord Ashbourne seemed dismayed that he should be so inattentive. "I will be giving you a very strange notion of my ability to navigate."

It was once again too narrow to turn the curricle around, so they continued onwards until a prospect emerged. It took some time to discover a practical place, but in the meantime they did not run out of conversation.

Mrs Bennet had not expected or wanted her daughters back for some hours yet, so it was only Mr Bennet (and Hill) who noticed the Viscount's curricle upon the drive. Mr Bennet was unconcerned until he saw Kitty being carried from the vehicle; he came into the foyer in his housecoat with his book in his hand.

"Do not concern yourself, sir, it is a trifling injury. But we thought it best to return Miss Bennet to the comfort of home."

"It's my ankle, Papa, I twisted it."

Lord Ashbourne asked permission to deposit his charge in her room and that was done swiftly. Kitty would have wished for his departure to take place in the parlour, for she would not now be able to hear if anything further was said between Mr Bennet and his lordship.

Mary had gone to acquaint their mother with the accident. Mrs Bennet took no time in bustling along to her daughters' room.

"What have you been doing, you foolish child? Could you not have had Mr Fitzwilliam bring you home?"

"Mr Fitzwilliam did not have a curricle!" Kitty was surprised that her mother had not switched her allegiances now to the Viscount. After all, she had spent now more time with him than with his brother.

"Well, we must hope that he is worrying about you." Mrs Bennet spoke with some abstraction. "Now someone needs to see to that ankle." Mrs Bennet did not mean herself. She never did.

Mary undertook to bathe Kitty's ankle and replace the cravat with proper bandages. Kitty knew her sister was entirely uninterested in listening to her speak, particularly since she had been present for the entirety of the conversation. However, she could not stop herself recounting their journey. Kitty counted herself lucky that Mary made no comment and listened in silence.

"There is nothing wrong with your ankle."

Kitty stopped speaking and looked down and saw her ankle looked identical to her other ankle. She moved both of them about and nothing hurt in any way. "I thought that it did not hurt. His lordship must have been overly cautious."

Mary's blank look made Kitty think she did not agree. Instead Mary grabbed one of her feet and began to bind it.

"That is not necessary." Kitty tried to pull her foot away.

'You wish Mama to know there was no reason for your returning from the picnic without speaking so much as a word to Mr Fitzwilliam?"

Kitty stuck her foot back into Mary's lap. "Are you sure this is the right ankle?"