Finding Another Mother - CH 1 plus blurb

Finding Another Mother

Blurb: Louisa Hurst dies in childbirth, leaving Gregory Hurst with a daughter, Madeline. Louisa’s death has impact on her siblings as well. Madeline is now three years old, and Gregory Hurst is considering finding her another mother.

Author’s note: For fun I have included small snippets of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in each of the chapters of Finding Another Mother. These could be used in different situations and by different characters than in the original. Also, this is the first “chapter” story that I have attempted. Thanks for reading. Jen


Chapter 1 : TO HERTFORDSHIRE WE GO

Fitzwilliam Darcy had accompanied his friend, Charles Bingley, to Hertfordshire. Charles had leased Netherfield Park and desired Darcy’s company and advice on estate management. With the death of both of his parents, Charles was the head of the family. His father’s dying wish was for Charles to purchase an estate and become a landed gentleman. Mr. Bingley decided to lease Netherfield Park with an option to buy it if he found Netherfield suited him. His friend, Mr. Darcy, was the master of his own family estate as his own dear parents were no longer alive. Mr. Darcy had been brought up from birth to run an estate and therefore had the experience that Mr. Bingley lacked. Mr. Bingley also brought along his sister, Caroline Bingley, to act as hostess and manage the household for him. The rest of his party was made up of Gregory Hurst, his brother-in-law, and Madeline Hurst, his niece who was three.

Mrs. Louisa Hurst had died in childbirth when Madeline was born, and her death had a profound effect on all the family. Mr. Hurst, who was somewhat of a sloth when Louisa was alive, was now busy managing his investments and property to make sure his daughter, Madeline, was well provided for. Caroline Bingley, who previously was determined to marry well and was in pursuit of Mr. Darcy for a marriage partner had also changed her tune. She saw how Louisa had suffered and was now determined to never have children. Mr. Darcy who had a large estate and needed an heir was no longer a target of her affections. Caroline also became less self-absorbed and doted on Madeline who was her only remaining link to a sister that she truly treasured. Charles Bingley who could still be called affable was a less lively man than he used to be, as a part of his heart was continuing to mourn his sister Louisa.

Upon entering Hertfordshire, Mr. Bingley had met Sir William Lucas who lived in the neighborhood. Sir William had invited the Netherfield party to an assembly in Meryton. Tonight was the night of the assembly. Charles was determined to attend as he wanted to meet as many of his new neighbors as he could. He asked everyone in his party to accompany him and Mr. Darcy and Caroline accepted the invitation. However, Mr. Hurst opted to stay at Netherfield with his daughter.

As they entered the assembly Mr. Bingley was greeted by Sir William. Mr. Bingley promptly introduced his sister and Darcy to Sir William. After the perfunctory introductions Darcy and Caroline walked off to the edge of the room. Mr. Darcy did not particularly enjoy dancing especially with ladies in which he did not have a previous acquaintance. He preferred to watch and not participate in the activity and Caroline was good company to converse with. Sir William looked around for his wife and daughters but could not see them in the crush of bodies, so he ushered Mr. Bingley over to Mrs. Bennet and her daughters and made the introductions. Charles Bingley was introduced, in birth order, to Miss Bennet (Jane), Miss Elizabeth, Miss Mary, Miss Kitty and Miss Lydia. Charles eagerly asked Miss Bennet for a dance and she agreed.

Mr. Darcy, who was standing at the edge of the room talking with Caroline, happened to spot Bingley dancing. He glanced over at Bingley’s partner and was mesmerized. He could not take his eyes off the lovely lady that danced with Bingley. He wondered who was this enchanting creature? She moved like an angel and with her blue eyes and blonde hair she was a classic beauty. He also surprised himself that he was so entranced with her. He had never felt such a strong attraction before. He wondered to himself, “What is happening to you Darcy?”

As the dance was ending Darcy excused himself from Caroline and made his way to where Bingley was ushering Jane off of the dance floor. Mr. Darcy came upon them. “Charles, I see that you are enjoying the dancing this evening,” he stated. Charles replied, “Indeed I am Darcy.” Mr. Darcy could wait no longer and asked, “Charles, would you do me the honor of introducing me to your dance partner?” Charles replied in the affirmative and the introduction was made. Darcy took no time in requesting a dance from Miss Bennet and she politely accepted.

As they were dancing Mr. Darcy was a very engaging partner asking Miss Bennet all about the area, her family and herself. Jane who, as always, was very serene and genteel answered all of his questions politely and even inquired as to his impression of Hertfordshire. Darcy could not take his eyes off of Jane while dancing and almost made a wrong turn in the dance, but this misstep was averted due to his superior dancing abilities and the several hours of dance lessons that he had taken as a youth.

After their dance, Darcy could not bear to part with Miss Bennet and asked her if she would like to rest a bit and sit down with some punch for the next set. She agreed to this scheme. Darcy then went off to get them some punch and when he came back, he made sure to sit right next to her.

Meanwhile, Charles Bingley was finally introduced to Sir William’s family. Charles met Lady Lucas, Miss Lucas (Charlotte) and Miss Maria. Bingley greeted them all politely but when he looked into Charlotte Lucas’ eyes, he felt a warmth that washed over him. Charlotte Lucas had a good heart and morals but most often was considered to be plain and ordinary. However, Charles was intrigued. He quickly asked Miss Lucas for a dance and was accepted. Mr. Bingley asked Charlotte, “Do you talk by rule, then, when you are dancing? Or would you prefer to be silent?” Charlotte answered, “Conversation would be most agreeable.” Consequently, while they were dancing Bingley was able to talk with Miss Lucas and he became more interested in knowing her better.

Back at Netherfield, Gregory Hurst had read Madeline her bedtime story and tucked her in for the night. He began thinking that he should be about the business of getting her a mother. She was getting older and a woman’s insight and caregiving would be most beneficial for his Madeline. He did not think it would be necessary for him to find “true love” for himself as his love for Madeline would make up for that. What he needed was a mother for his daughter more than he needed a wife for himself. He mused that siblings for Madeline would also be a benefit to marrying again. “Well, Gregory, a wife hunting we will go then!” he chuckled to himself.

The ride back to Netherfield in the carriage saw Charles wistfully looking out the window and sighing. He was thinking of Charlotte Lucas and wondering if it would be proper to call on her tomorrow. Mr. Darcy was silent but battling with himself quietly in his head. He could not figure out what the allure of Jane Bennet was, but he could not shake thinking about her, so he gave in to those thoughts of their night talking and dancing together and a small smile appeared across his face. Caroline was also in deep thought. She had danced several times but was now thinking of how she used to discuss the aftermath of dances with Louisa and how she was now sadly deprived of Louisa’s insights and company.