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When we ended the tour I offered refreshments, which they refused. I then asked if they would like to tour the garden they agreed. I asked Harry to go and find Tom, the gardener, and tell him there was a group to show around. While Harry went looking for Tom, they thanked me for the tour, and stepped outside to have a better look at Pemberley. As I turned away to go back into the house, I was wondering whether I should say anything to the Master the following day. I was also trying to place Mrs. Gardiner as I was convinced I knew her.
I had been in my room for approximately ten minutes when I heard someone run up the front stairs, open the front door and run up the stairs calling for a footman. It sounded like the Master and I hadn't heard him so excited since Miss Georgiana was born. I quickly called David, one of the footmen, and sent him to the Master's room to see what he required. Within five minutes, two requests came from the Master. The first was for some hot water to be sent to his room, the second summoning me to his room.
I was filled with some trepidation as I climbed the stairs. I suspected he may have encountered the visitors as he arrived, and wondered whether I was to be reprimanded for allowing their visit. I decided that I would claim having no knowledge of who the visitors were and to wait and see what would develop.
I reached the Master's room together with the hot water and I heard the Master say to David "Quickly, I'll have the brown jacket."
I knocked and was bid to enter. I had never seen the room in such a mess. The Master was usually so fastidious and neat, nothing ever out of place. Yet now the jacket lay by the bed, the shirt on the floor, one boot by the door, the other by the basin…David looked at me and shrugged his shoulders as though to say "do not blame me".
"Oh Reynie," the Master said, "Thank you for coming up. Tell me did the young lady outside have a tour of the house?"
"Yes she did, Mr. Darcy."
"Did she seem pleased?"
"Yes I think she was quite impressed."
"Did you mention me?"
"Yes I did, and everything I said was to your advantage."
"Thank you Reynie, I must go. I'll try and bring her, sorry, them back for refreshments."
"Very well Sir."
I stepped out to allow him to get dressed and walked towards my room wondering what it all meant. Looking out of my window I saw the Gardiners, Miss Elizabeth and Tom head towards the copse, they quickly disappeared from sight. Ten minutes later the Master rushed out the door looking to and fro trying to work out in which direction they had gone. He spotted me in the window and made a sign, I pointed towards the copse and he walked quickly in that direction.
I wondered what could have brought him home a day early, when a note was delivered to me from Henry. The note said "Let me know when the Master returns. There is an urgent matter to be dealt with. I asked him to return a day early."
Next time I saw the Master he was handing the ladies into their carriage. He seemed rather reluctant to let go of Miss Elizabeth's hand but he had no choice. He watched the carriage until it vanished from view.
He then turned around and began walking back to the house rather slowly, he also seemed very distracted. I saw him go up the stairs and heard the door of his study close. I went down to the kitchen and prepared a cup of tea and some of his favourites sweets on a plate. I had the tray sent up to him and sent word to Henry that the Master was home.
Within an hour of sending word to Henry, the Master and he were out of the house, off to solve whatever problem had come up. I directed Cook to prepare the Master a light supper. I had a feeling he would not be too hungry, and his mind too full of today's events to eat much. I then went to check that all the rooms were ready, that everything was in place, and during my tour of the house I was trying to work out why Mrs. Gardiner seemed familiar. She seemed to be a few years younger than me, refined, cultivated yet I had seen her before.
When I had finished the tour of the rooms I went to my room to have some tea and go over the menus. While I was sitting quietly in my room there was a knock on the door – "Enter". The door opened and Emily came in quite excited- "Guess who is in Lambton?" she said.
"I did not know were you expecting someone?"
"No, but my father just told me that his favourite cousin has come from London, for a short visit in Lambton. She has arrived with her husband and niece."
"Of course, Mary Brent, that is why she was so familiar."
"Reynie what are you talking about?"
"I gave a Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and their niece, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, a tour of the house this morning. For some reason Mrs. Gardiner seemed familiar, now I know. She was and is indeed your father's favourite cousin. She is a couple of years younger than him, but they got on so well, you could almost swear they were brother and sister. When she went off to the Seminary he was quite brokenhearted, though he recovered soon enough. After she finished school, she came back for a few months, and during one of her short stays in town to visit an old school friend, she met Mr. Gardiner and they got married shortly afterwards. She has been in London ever since."
"What is she like? Will I like her niece?"
"She is a very gentle person, refined and cultivated. I am sure you will like her very much. As to her niece, she may very well be the one to relieve you of your promise to Georgie."
"Oh, well if that is the case I cannot wait to meet her and I'll do what I can to praise the Master."
"Do not overdo it or she may begin to suspect that we are conspiring against her."
"Do not worry Reynie." With that she pecked me on the cheek and ran out, no doubt to tell my William of the good news.
The Master came back about eight o'clock, and went straight into his study. I knocked on the door a few minutes later and after he bid me to enter I went in. He was sitting in his favourite chair, staring into the fire, with a strange look on his face as though he had seen something unusual.
"Is everything in order Sir? Would you like a spot of supper or would you rather wash up first?" I received no answer it was as though he did not hear me.
"I wasn't dreaming was I? She was here today, Elizabeth?" I could barely hear him as he talked to himself.
"What did she think of me? What did she think of Pemberley? How soon can I see her again?"
"Sir," I said rather loudly.
"Sorry Reynie, I was daydreaming."
"Would you like to wash up before supper, or should I ask Cook to send it up to you now?"
"I'll wash first then have a spot of supper."
"Very well Sir," I turned to leave the room but then turned back and said, "You were not dreaming she was here today. I think she likes Pemberley very much, I think she is beginning to approve of its Master as well but more importantly Pemberley likes her."
With that I walked out of the room but not before I had seen Mr. Darcy's expression change from a dazed look to a hopeful one. I returned to my room and felt Pemberley beginning to awaken from a deep sleep. The house sensed the hope in the Master's heart and responded. I hoped we would not be disappointed.
The next morning saw the Master nervously pacing in his study, the hall, the front of the house. He barely ate any breakfast, he seemed rather wound up. I imagined it was connected to Miss Bennet's arrival but knew she was not expected to make a call today, as the Master would have mentioned it. I couldn't understand what the Master was nervous about.
Around eleven o'clock I heard the carriages roll up to the front. Before Harry could get to the door, the Master was already outside waiting for his sister and guests. I went outside with him to greet them and to see my darling. Out of the first carriage stepped Mr. Hurst, Mrs. Hurst and Mr. Bingley. Mr. Bingley greeted me warmly though he did seem a bit low in spirits, compared to the last time I has seen him. I put it down to the travelling, and the trials of travelling with his sisters.
The second carriage stopped, Miss Bingley stepped out in all her orange finery. Next my darling's face peeked out and the Master actually lifted her from the carriage down to the path, giving her a very warm welcome. He whispered something in her ear, I noticed she looked at him somewhat strangely but nodded her head. She then turned to me and came straight into my arms. I escorted our guests to their respective rooms and then went towards Miss Georgiana's rooms to see if all was well.
As I approached her rooms I saw her coming towards me looking somewhat puzzled. "Is there something the matter, my dear?"
"No Reynie, everything is perfect, I was just wondering why my brother would want to see me so urgently in his study?"
I smiled, I could very well imagine why, the sooner Miss Georgiana met Miss Bennet, the sooner we would see Miss Bennet in Pemberley.
"Is there something you wish to tell me Reynie?" asked Miss Georgiana.
"No dear, except that I believe your brother has some news he wishes to import to you. Go, don't keep him waiting, he's been on tenterhooks all morning."
Shortly afterwards I saw the carriage pull up to the front of the house and the Master, Miss Georgiana and Mr. Bingley all climbed in. They were gone for about an hour. When they got back they all seemed pleased with themselves.
Around teatime there was a knock on my door. "Come in," I said, expecting to see Anne or one of the maids walk in, instead Miss Georgiana entered.
"Georgie is there something wrong?"
"No Reynie I just wanted to talk. Do you know where we went this morning?"
"I can guess. You drove to Lambton to see a young lady and her aunt and uncle."
"Yes we did. Have you met her?"
"Yes, I gave her and her relatives a tour of Pemberley yesterday."
"What did you think of her? I liked her very much."
"She seemed a gentlewoman, lively, intelligent and warm and it seems as though your brother is quite fond of her."
"Yes it does. I have invited them for dinner for the day after tomorrow."
"Very well, we shall make sure to show off Pemberley in the best possible way."
"Thank you Reynie. I know we can count on you."
"I think I should tell you Miss Georgiana, that there is a possibility they may call on you tomorrow, returning your call of today."
"Do you think I should tell Fitzwilliam of the possibility?"
"No, then he will not be disappointed if she does not come. I promise you, that if Miss Bennet should call on you tomorrow, I shall let the Master know."
"Thank you Reynie. May I ask you something?"
"Of course dearest. Just let me say this, if he marries her, it will be the best thing that has happened to Pemberley ever since you were born."
"How did you know what my question was going to be?"
"I was your nurse for many years, which gives me an advantage over certain people."
We both burst out laughing knowing who I was referring to. Just then the Master walked by and hearing our laughter wondered what was funny. We refused to tell him and as he was happy he didn't pry any further. He then turned to Miss Georgiana and said to her
"Have you told Reynie we are expecting guests for dinner the day after tomorrow?"
"Yes she has, Sir."
"These are very special guests Reynie, I want Pemberley to look its best, and for every one to be on their best behaviour."
"Fitzwilliam, everybody is always on their best behaviour here," said Miss Georgiana.
"I know Georgiana, but it means so much to me to have Elizabeth, here in my home, that I want everything to be perfect."
"Don't worry Sir, all will be well."
"Thank you Reynie for everything."
The two left my room to go and prepare for dinner, and I was left wondering about a young lady from Hertfordshire, who had the ability to make so many people happy. I later shared some of my thoughts with John who said-
"If the wine list I received is any indication, the Master is infatuated with the young lady. Nothing is too good for her and I suspect that if she ever needed anything, he would even be willing to lay down his life for her."
Neither of us realized, at the time, how prophetic those words were.
Early the next morning I went to tell Cook about the dinner party. While we sat on the menu, Cook looked at me rather strangely, and would say every now and then "Are you sure this is what you want Mrs. Reynolds?"
"Yes I am, these are very special guests and I want the best for them."
"Very well Ma'am."
I then told her that Miss Georgiana may have some morning callers, and that she should have some delicacies ready. Cook looked at me and said "Will these callers be our dinner guests tomorrow?"
"Yes they will be."
"Well you tell the Master from me, that Pemberley will not disgrace him." I left the kitchen with a smile on my face. I knew that all would be well.
I had told Harry that if Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Bennet were to call on Miss Georgiana, he was to let me know. At around eleven o'clock there was a knock on my door and Harry came in – "They are here Mrs. Reynolds."
"Thank you Harry."
I knew the Master had arranged to meet Mr. Gardiner and some of the other men, for some fishing, and debated when to send him the message. After a few minutes I decided that he would prefer to spend his time with Miss Bennet then with the men. I called Tom Junior, the gardener's son, and asked him to deliver a message to the Master. Twenty minutes later I saw the Master coming up the front stairs. An hour or so later, I saw him walk Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Bennet to their carriage. He stood outside until the carriage disappeared, then walked slowly inside.
Dinner that evening was a quiet affair, despite Miss Bingley's attempts. The men seemed tired from their fishing, my darling was withdrawn and the Master was pensive. I hoped that this was not an indication for the following evening.
The next morning I was going over the last details for the dinner when I heard a horse being readied. Looking out I noticed it was the Master's horse and a few minutes later the Master came out. He rode off towards Lambton, I could only assume he was going to call on a young lady.
An hour later I heard a horseman riding up. Glancing out I saw the Master, he leapt off his horse and ran up the stairs, the next thing I heard was his study door being closed. After an hour or so David came to my room saying – "The Master wishes to speak to you Ma'am."
I made my way to the study wondering what had happened. When I entered the study he was sitting in his chair staring out of the window.
"Was there something you wanted Sir?"
"Sit down Reynie there is something I need to tell you."
I sat down rather apprehensive. "There will be no dinner party tonight. Miss Bennet and the Gardiners have been called home unexpectedly."
"Oh, I see."
"No you don't but you will in a minute. Elizabeth's, sorry, Miss Bennet's youngest sister, Miss Lydia, has eloped with George Wickham, they are believed to be in London."
"Oh dear. Does Miss Elizabeth know what Wickham is like?"
"Yes she does, she also knows about Georgie and Wickham."
"You trust her that much Sir?"
"I'd trust her with my life Reynie."
"What do you want me to do?"
"First tell Cook dinner is off. Secondly keep an eye on Georgie, I'll be telling her next and thirdly do you know if Wickham has any relations in London?"
"I shall pass on the message to Cook. I'll gladly keep an eye on Miss Georgiana and as far as I know neither Mr. nor Mrs. Wickham had any living relatives."
"I see. Well, I shall be leaving for town in the morning, I'll see what I can find there."
"You could try looking up Mrs. Younge, Miss Georgiana's old companion. I think I may have her address somewhere."
"That would give me a starting point, thank you Reynie. I'll finish up here, talk to Georgie, then go and instruct Jamie to pack, I'll tell the others at dinner. When you find the address send Harry with it, it will look less obvious."
"Very well Sir. Good Luck."
I went to the kitchen to tell Cook about the change in plans. Cook wasn't too surprised- "What do you expect from gentry" she said.
I decided not to respond and went back to my room to look up my correspondence. Though Mrs. Younge had been dismissed at Ramsgate she was supposed to have come unto Pemberley afterwards, and she had sent some of her things ahead. She wrote to me soon after her dismissal asking for her stuff to be sent to her. I was sure there had been an address, if I could only remember where I had put the letter.
I went through my correspondence without any luck. I then remembered I may have put it with the papers concerning the house- bills, payments to workers and such, and sure enough there it was with a return address- Edward Street, London. I wrote a note to the Master and went looking for John. John was preparing the wine for dinner. Cook hadn't told him dinner was off. John asked what had happened, I filled him in knowing he would not say a word to anyone. John looked at me and said- "Well I hope he does find them and resolves the issue, otherwise I fear we will never have a mistress."
"John how can you say that?"
"Sarah, you didn't see his face yesterday when she was visiting, I did. Believe me there is no one else out there for him."
"He is that far gone?"
"Yes, in fact I think she has become his raison d'etre."
"Well if that is the way things are, I hope he finds them soon and brings her back, otherwise there will be no saving this home." I left him and handed the note to Harry to give the Master and went back to my room.
A couple of hours later I was about to leave my room to check on dinner, when Mrs. Annesley came to me and asked if I would come up to see Miss Georgiana. As I accompanied her to Miss Georgiana's room, I asked her if she knew the reason why she wanted to see me. Her answer was –"She needs some comfort".
I thought that was an odd answer coming from her companion, but I had learnt to trust Mrs. Annesley's judgment. When we got to my darling's room, Mrs. Annesley waited outside, while I went in. I found Georgie lying on her bed, tears running down her eyes. As soon as she saw me she put out her arms, and I went to her holding her tight, like I used to when she was a child. I rocked her, kissed the top of her head and held her until I felt she had calmed down.
"What happened darling?"
"Did Fitzwilliam tell you?"
"Yes he did."
"It's my fault."
"Exactly how is it your fault?"
"Because of me, my reputation, Fitzwilliam said and did nothing last year. Now Elizabeth's sister has fallen into his power. If I had been stronger, I should have insisted that he tell others about Wickham."
"You cannot blame yourself for Wickham's deeds. Only Wickham is culpable for his actions. I suspect that Miss Elizabeth's sister, unlike Miss Elizabeth, is a foolish young girl and thus was easy prey for Wickham. Your brother has gone to help in the search, and I am sure he will find them and the problem will be resolved."
"I think Miss Bennet knows about Ramsgate."
"Why do you say that? I am sure your brother would never reveal it to any one, without your permission."
"I think something happened between him and Miss Bennet and he was forced to tell her the truth."
"Did Miss Bennet say anything about Mr Wickham?"
"No she did not, she is too good to do that, it was Miss Bingley."
"Miss Bingley? What does she know about Ramsgate?"
"Nothing, but during Mrs Gardiner and Elizabeth's call yesterday, Miss Bingley said to Elizabeth- "Pray, Miss Eliza, are not the militia removed from Meryton? They must be a great loss to your family." She was obviously referring to Wickham though she would not say his name."
"What did Miss Bennet do?" I asked.
"Miss Bennet answered in a disengaged tone, and then came to sit by me, holding out her hand in comfort. I was so ashamed of myself I could not look up. When I had recovered a bit I looked into Fitzwilliam's face, he was watching Miss Bennet with such love I was embarrassed to look at him."
"Are you worried this may come between your brother and Miss Elizabeth?"
"Can you imagine my brother being Wickham's brother-in-law? I cannot."
"Neither can I, but I believe your brother's feelings towards Miss Bennet are such that he will be prepared to have Wickham as a brother-in-law if he can have Miss Bennet for a wife."
"I hope you are right Reynie, I have never seen him so engrossed in someone else, always looking towards her, following her every move, trying to guess her every wish. If that is what love is like I am not sure I am ready for that."
"Your brother's affection towards Miss Bennet is obvious, and there is probably a good reason for it. We shall have to wait until all this is resolved to find out why. For the moment trust me that all will be well, Wickham and Miss Lydia will be found and your brother will find happiness."
"Thank you Reynie for this talk. I think I had better get ready for dinner and show my brother that I am strong enough to handle this crisis."
"I shall send in Mrs. Annesley and send Sally to help you with your hair."
"Thank you Reynie."
She then gave me a kiss and as I left the room I saw her standing up and straightening herself and I knew she would be fine, at heart she was a real Darcy. I sent Mrs. Annesley in and asked Rosie to send Sally to Miss Georgiana.
I went to the dining room to check on the table. I then went down to the kitchen to ask Cook to prepare something for the morrow so that the Master will have food with him when he leaves the house. I then went back to my room to go over some accounting. By the time I was up and about the next morning the Master had left. Everyone seemed a bit low but as the day progressed they picked up and within a couple of days they were out picnicking, riding, playing and such.
Posted on Saturday, 1 December 2007
London,
Dear Reynie,
Armed with your letter I was able to locate Mrs. Younge quickly. I needed to apply some pressure, and to bribe her, before she would consent to reveal Wickham and Miss Lydia's whereabouts.
I saw them today and Wickham does not seem desirous of marrying Miss Lydia. He had run up considerable debts in Brighton and decided to go away. Miss Lydia was easy prey so he took her with him. I think if he could he would desert her.
Miss Lydia is convinced he will marry her eventually, so she is prepared to wait. She does not care that her family is concerned about her or that her family's reputation is at stake. She cares only for 'Dear Wickham' as she calls him.
I shall go over tomorrow and try to convince Wickham it will be worth his while to marry her. After he agrees I shall report to Mr. Gardiner and he can continue from there. I do not want any one from the Bennet family to know of my involvement. This is part of my amends.
I shall be writing to Georgiana when it is all over. This must go no further than you and John. I shall write again soon.
Affectionately,
I was pleased the Master had found them so quickly. I could not understand why he did not want Miss Elizabeth to know of his involvement, but I assumed he had his reasons. I went looking for John to show him the letter and met him coming towards me, with a letter in his hand.
"Don't tell me," I said "Jamie is worried about the company the Master has been keeping lately."
"I haven't heard from Jamie since they left for Town. This is a letter from Meg."
"Meg? What does she have to say?"
"She writes that Anne is welcome to come and stay as long as she wants."
"Oh, I see."
"She has also sent some money to pay for the passage and recommends Anne leaves England no later than the beginning of October."
I said nothing. My little girl was going away, so far so soon. I knew that I should be happy for Anne, this was what she wanted, but she was still my little girl and I hated the thought that she would be so far away. John looked at me and said "Come let us go to your room."
I let him lead the way. I heard him ask Harry to bring some things from the kitchen and soon we were in my room. John sat me down and rubbed my hands.
"Sarah, you know that this is what she wants."
"Yes I know, but that does not make it easier."
"I promise you, we will go out and see her one day."
"But you get seasick from a ride on the lake."
"Well think of it this way, you'll be so busy caring for me you won't have time to miss any one."
"John, I do not get homesick that easily."
"Let us see. Five years ago we had gotten to Lambton when you began to miss them. Two years ago we got no further than the gates of Pemberley."
"You exaggerate sir, now to return to our original discussion, what should we do about Anne?"
"That's better, my practical Sarah."
We sat there discussing the issue and decided we would give Anne the letter, the next time we saw her, and hear what she has to say. We also agreed to talk to the Master and ask him how to arrange passage to the United States. After we had spoken to Anne and the Master, John would write to Meg giving her all the details. We had approximately two months in which to prepare everything.
Before we showed Anne the letter, John went down to the farm one evening to speak to James and Mary. Anne was as much theirs as she was ours. It was only right they should know what was being planned. I would not go with John, as I knew Mary and I would start crying. There was time for that later.
About week after the last letter from the Master I received another short missive from him.
London,
Dear Reynie,
If you are wondering how I can prevent Wickham from fleeing the city and country, I have enlisted the help of the Colonel and he has men watching Wickham round the clock.
Affectionately,
Two days after receiving the letter, the Master returned to Pemberley. He arrived just before dinner, he seemed exhausted and he'd lost weight. He went up to his rooms to wash off the dirt and then joined the others for dinner. After dinner he went into his study to look over his correspondence and then had an early night.
The next morning he was up before any of his guests, and sent Jamie to ask if he could join me for coffee, I agreed.
After we were seated and drinking our coffee I said, "Well at least you don't look as tired as you did yesterday, but tell me didn't Mrs. Watkins feed you, you have lost so much weight."
"Please don't blame Mrs. Watkins, believe me she made all my favourite dishes but I was so busy and kept such odd hours that I didn't have time to eat properly. I am just relieved it is almost all over."
"Almost Sir?"
"I have to go back in two weeks time to finalise all the financial aspects and to attend a wedding."
"A wedding?"
"Yes, I am standing up with Wickham, as he has no family."
"I see Sir."
"You see but don't approve is that it Reynie?"
"Yes Sir."
"Reynie I have to make sure they are married, this is part of my penance, if I am to have a second chance."
"A second chance, Sir?"
"Reynie what is Pemberley missing?"
That was an easy question to answer, "A mistress, Sir."
"Have you met a young lady recently that you would be proud to call mistress?"
"Yes Sir."
"Reynie, for your ears only, Elizabeth has rejected me once already, I could not bear another rejection, so I must make sure of her feelings before trying again. In order to try again I must make sure that there are no obstacles between us. Wickham was one and there is one other which I shall deal with in the near future."
"Sir if I may ask, what is the connection between Miss Bennet's rejection and Mr. Wickham?"
"Reynie you don't seem surprised about her refusal, why?"
"Sir I have been corresponding with you for many years. Never in the past fifteen years or so have you ever mentioned a young lady, except for your cousins and Miss Georgiana. In the past year your letters have been full of one lady, and after Rosings I was convinced I would hear that Pemberley has a new Mistress. Instead I heard of a Master I did not recognize, I realized there could only be one reason for that, you were refused."
"You are right Reynie. As to your question, as I mentioned in one of my letters from Netherfield I tried to warn Elizabeth of Wickham's deceitful nature but she would not heed the warning. I later discovered he had poisoned her against me so much that one of her reasons for refusing me was my behaviour to Wickham. According to her I had 'reduced him to his present state of poverty… withheld advantages… deprived him of the best years of his life…' "
"Why didn't you tell her the truth Sir?"
"I couldn't, not then. I was afraid of revealing too much, and feared that the manner in which I chose to tell her about Wickham would increase her abhorrence of me."
"Abhorrence Sir, how could any one hate you?"
"Very easily apparently, I would rather not go into that now, it will bring back memories I would rather forget. If Elizabeth ever accepts me I'll ask her to tell you the story."
"Very well Sir. So what did you do after she accused you of behaving so badly to Wickham?"
"I wrote her a letter, detailing all my dealings with Wickham, including Ramsgate. I had to make her understand. In spite of her refusal I still cared greatly for her and wanted her to think less badly of me."
"I think it made a difference Sir, if her behaviour at Pemberley was any indication."
"I hope so Reynie, I really do."
My estimation for Miss Bennet rose even more. I realized that this young woman was demanding from the Master something no one else had dared to, to be himself and I had a feeling that as Mistress of Pemberley we could find none better. I smiled to myself.
"Is there something the matter Reynie?"
"No Sir, I was just wondering when I should start work on the Master Bedroom."
The Master looked at me and then burst out laughing – "I'll let you know as soon as possible."
"Thank you Sir."
"I had better go and see if any of my guests are up. I shall give Georgie the news during the day. You may tell John what I told you but it must go no further."
"Yes Sir."
He left the room and I found myself going over his words "second chance… obstacles…proposal…rejection…" and wondered once again about this young lady. My instincts were telling me that Elizabeth was indeed going to be the best thing that happened to Pemberley since Georgie was born and that after her arrival the fortunes of my Master and Mistress would change for the better. I started to make plans for the Master Bedroom.
The following day Georgiana came to my room before tea.
"Georgie, is there something the matter?" I asked.
"Did Fitzwilliam tell you the news Reynie?"
"You mean about finding the young couple, yes he did."
"I am so confused Reynie."
"Why dear?"
"I am relieved he has found them for Miss Elizabeth's sake, yet I can not help thinking it could easily have been me. I am glad they will be far away, so I shall probably never meet him again. Yet there is a possibility he may be Fitzwilliam's brother in law, and though I may never see him, I am sure I will meet Miss Lydia and maybe even his children."
"I can understand your confusion dear. You must thank the Lord that you had people looking out for you thus preventing you from becoming Mrs. Wickham. In both your situation and Miss Lydia's it was thanks to your brother's intervention that no real harm was done. And as I've told you before, having Wickham for a brother-in-law will not deter your brother from marrying Miss Elizabeth. As to Miss Lydia I suspect her sister will ensure you have very little contact with her."
"Thank you Reynie."
As Miss Georgiana left my room, I found myself contemplating on Cowper's Olney Hymns and particularly on the first sentence in Light Shining Out of Darkness- "G-d moves in a mysterious way." A young man who had all the advantages one could wish for, discards them all and instead chooses a life of dissolution, idleness and dissipation. On the way he injures his mentor's children, spreads poison about them, and yet brings them their greatest joy. G-d does indeed move in a mysterious way.
Posted on Wednesday, 12 December 2007
A couple of days after the Master's return to Pemberley, John and I went to see Anne at the Vicarage and showed her Meg's letter. Anne was very excited and I could not bring myself to dampen her spirits. We spoke to the vicar and it was arranged that Anne would continue in her present position until the second week in September. That gave the vicar three weeks to seek a new housekeeper and gave Anne three weeks to prepare for her trip. We also decided it was time to speak with the Master and ask his advice about arranging passage for Anne to the United States.
That evening I sent a note with Harry to the Master, asking if John and I could come and seek his advice about a certain matter early the next morning. Harry came back to say that the Master will meet us in his study at nine o'clock the following morning.
I met John outside the Master's study. After we had entered and sat down, the Master looked at us and said, "John what happened? Reynie seems upset."
John then told the Master of Anne's restlessness, of the solutions we had suggested and of the letter to Meg.
"John, why didn't you write to me in London, after you received the letter from Meg? I would have spoken to my Aunt."
"Sarah thought you had other concerns on your mind and we did not wish to impose on you more than necessary."
"Thank you Reynie, though I assure you I would have done it willingly. How then may I be of assistance now?"
"We were wondering if you could help us with booking a passage for Anne. If Anne leaves London at the beginning of October, she should reach New York before the ocean grows too rough, and that would allow enough time for Meg to receive the letter with the details of Anne's travel arrangements."
"I do have a number of acquaintances in the shipping business, I shall call on them when I am in London next week. I will also seek out a safe berth for Anne."
"Are you sure you will have time for it Sir?"
"Yes Reynie. The wedding is on Monday and I have promised the Gardiners I will join them for dinner on Tuesday evening. I will have plenty of time in which to arrange Anne's passage."
"Did you know that Mrs. Gardiner is Emily's second cousin?"
"No I did not. Emily is very lucky to have such capable and discerning relatives."
"Yes she is, and so is another young lady." The Master blushed.
"We shall leave you now, thank you Sir for your assistance in our matter. Here is the money Meg sent to pay for the passage, please use it."
"Very well John."
"Thank you Sir," I said, "We are much obliged to you."
"As you are both here, there are three pieces of news I wish to share with you. The first item is that Michael is returning at the beginning of September. His mother has fully recovered and he wishes to return to his old position. I have no doubt John will be happy to return to the farm. The second item concerns the Bingleys, they will be leaving a day or two after my return from London, they are going on to Scarborough. The third piece of news is that I have invited Edwin Annesley to Pemberley, he will be here the second weekend in September."
By the time the Master had finished both John and me were smiling. Michael's return meant John could go back to his horses. Miss Caroline Bingley was leaving and Edwin was coming for Sally.
"Does Sally know Sir?"
"Yes she does and she will no doubt seek you out in the next few days."
"I shall make myself available to her whenever she comes."
I was in my room that evening going over some house bills when there was a knock on my door. "Come in" I said.
"Reynie, may I speak with you?" It was Sally.
"Of course Sally, let me make us some tea and then we can be comfortable."
While I busied myself I noticed Sally was rather fidgety, she could not sit still and kept fingering her dress. When all was ready I sat down and waited for Sally to begin.
"Reynie, has the Master said anything about me lately?"
"Not directly. Why do you ask?"
"Did he tell you he has invited Edwin to Pemberley?"
"Yes he informed me of it this morning."
"Do you know why Edwin is coming?"
"I can guess. You mentioned in one of your letters from London the Master had asked for Edwin's address."
"The Master wrote to Edwin asking him what his intentions were towards me. Me, a lady's maid, who knows only what her Master, Mistress and Edwin himself have taught her. Do you know what Edwin's response was?"
"I imagine he said they were honourable."
"Why do you say that?"
"Knowing his mother, Mrs. Annesley, I would expect nothing less from him."
"You are right. Now I don't know what to do."
"What do you mean Sally? A gentleman whom you obviously admire, if not love, is coming to propose to you and you do not know what to do?"
"I am worried about Miss Georgiana, she will have to start anew with some one else. You know how shy she is, who will look after her?"
"Let me see, she has a brother, cousin and all the staff at Pemberley, and for your ears only there may soon be a lovely sister-in-law that will help. Moreover you deserve a life too, I am sure Miss Georgiana will not begrudge you that, especially after she has met the young man. As to a new maid, you will help me choose one and you will train her so that the move will be as smooth as possible."
"A sister-in-law, I hope it is Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I know Miss Georgiana likes her very much. I suppose I should tell Miss Georgiana of my expectations before Edwin arrives, so the news will not come as a surprise. Though I suspect Miss Georgiana may have drawn her own conclusions on the matter some time ago and is waiting for me to bring it up."
"Very likely Sally, go speak to her today so we may begin looking for a replacement. Though I think we had better wait till Edwin proposes. You never know, he might be coming to Pemberley to see me."
Sally blushed, "Thank you Reynie for everything."
I kissed Sally and bade her good night. I felt as though I was slowly losing all my girls. Anne was going away, Sally was getting married, Emily was probably not far behind and Georgie would probably be spending more time in London, as her debut into London Society approached. I tried to comfort myself with the thought that there may soon be small children running around Pemberley but I fear I was unsuccessful.
A week later the Master left for London, this time he was gone for only three days. He returned in time for dinner and almost immediately afterwards retired to his room. He sent a note to me telling me all was well and that he would fill me in the following day. I went to sleep content.
We found him sitting on the love seat, holding a piece of paper in his hand, looking at the lilies.
"An unusual meeting place Sir" Said John.
"You are right but I think you will find it appropriate. I have booked Anne a passage to the United States on Tuesday, the13th of October. The ship is called Devonshire. The trip to New York takes approximately five weeks, so Anne should arrive there mid November. I have also found Anne a travelling companion. My Aunt has a friend that has booked a passage on that ship. She is going to visit her son in Philadelphia. She is a widow and was rather worried about travelling alone. She was very grateful for my Aunt's idea of a companion and will even pay half of Anne's fare. They will be sleeping in one of the cabins, so there is less chance of becoming ill."
"Become ill, Sir?"
"Yes Reynie, most of the passengers on these ships sleep in the steerage, and it is usually enough for one person to be ill for everyone else to be affected."
"I see Sir. Does your Aunt's friend want to meet Anne before they depart?"
"Yes she does. If I may make a suggestion, I think you, Reynie, should go to London with Anne a week or so before the ship departs in order to meet my Aunt's friend and buy Anne whatever she may need. You may go with Mary if you wish, and John and James may join you for the last few days. You will stay at the house at Grosvenor Square. Here is the money I did not use and a small retainer from my Aunt's friend. She will pay Anne a pound a week for her companionship."
"That is very generous of her Sir. Thank you, Sir, for everything."
"I shall leave you now. I must return to my guests and bid them farewell."
The Master left and John and I sat down in the love seat. John put his arm around me and hugged me tight. I began to cry. I calmed down after ten minutes or so and we sat there quietly for another twenty minutes or so. Before we got up I said to John, "I want to tell Mary first and then I think Mary and I should be the ones to tell Anne."
"As you wish my dear," John kissed me and we made our way slowly back to the house. I then sent out two notes. The first to Mary in which I told her I would be calling on her in the morning. The second note was to the vicar in which I said that Mary and I would be calling on Anne around lunch time.
As it was the Bingleys last evening dinner finished later than usual and after making sure all was well I returned to my room to make a list of items I thought Anne may require. It was getting late when suddenly there was a knock on my door, Mr. Bingley was standing outside.
"Sir how may I help you?"
"I just wanted to thank you, Mrs. Reynolds, for the warm hospitality we received at Pemberley."
"I am only the housekeeper Sir. You should not be thanking me."
"I have already thanked Mr. and Miss Darcy but I felt myself obliged to thank you too, Mrs. Reynolds. I have had some experience lately in running an estate, and I know that a well run house and a welcoming staff depend as much on the Mistress as on the housekeeper. I hope if I ever marry my house will be just as hospitable."
"I have no doubt that when you find the right Mistress, any house of yours will be just as welcoming as Pemberley."
"Thank you Mrs. Reynolds for your kind words but I have lost my chance for the right Mistress so no house of mine will ever be as welcoming. Thank you once again." He bowed to me and walked away.
As he walked towards the staircase I could not help but pity. Mr. Bingley was always warm, cheerful, friendly, yet casting my mind over his present stay at Pemberley, I realized I rarely heard him laugh. I realised I had been rather distracted during this stay, Miss Elizabeth's arrival, Wickham's actions, Anne's restlessness all these kept me from observing Mr. Bingley's mood. Yet he spent more time than usual alone, was often short with his sisters and accompanied the Master about his estate business more than usual. In fact the only time he seemed remotely like himself was during Miss Elizabeth's visit.
I tried to remember if the Master had told or written to me anything of Miss Elizabeth's family, and remembered that he had mentioned that Bingley had been enamoured with her elder sister. I assumed she had refused him and he was still suffering from a broken heart. I hoped he would soon find happiness with another. I did not know how wrong I was until a few weeks later.
The Bingleys left soon after breakfast and after giving some instructions I left the house and made my way to the farm. As I approached I saw Mary coming towards me. We did not have to speak as we held each other, and then went back to the farm. Mary listened quietly to everything I said. Later when Mary said "Anne's wishes always came true." I knew exactly what she meant.
We made our way to the Vicarage discussing Anne's wardrobe, travel needs, money for the journey and reminiscing about events in Anne's life. By the time we had reached the Vicarage we had accepted the inevitable and knew in our hearts it was probably the best thing for Anne. Anne was waiting for us in the kitchen. The vicar had found a new housekeeper and Anne was training her. We left the new girl to serve the vicar his lunch and took Anne for a walk.
As usual we headed towards the Lake, and sat down under the big oak tree. Anne looked around and said "I am going to miss all of this."
"I am sure you will find some beautiful places in and around Boston," Said Mary.
"I am sure I will, but it will not be the same. It will not be home."
We sat there by the lake talking, crying, reminiscing and planning. By the time John and James found us, three hours later, we had everything mapped out. Anne's only request was, if possible, to be present at Sally's wedding. I had told them of Edwin's expected visit and the expected consequences, and they were both delighted. John and James walked Anne back to the vicar's to make the final arrangements and Mary and I made our way to the farm. I promised Mary I would come and spend a morning with her before Edwin's arrival.
The next few days passed quietly, with the house slowly returning to its slower rhythm. Anne had completed training the vicar's new housekeeper and was often found wandering about the grounds of Pemberley painting "trying to capture the essence of home" she said. Sally was quite distracted, and often Miss Georgiana had to repeat herself two, three times before Sally understood her. I wondered what Georgie thought of Sally's predicament and on the Thursday before Edwin was due she asked me to join her for tea.
"Reynie have you ever met Edwin?"
"Once, last Christmas for a few minutes. Why?"
"I am worried, Sally has never really spent much time with Edwin. Most of their relationship has been by correspondence. How do we know that Sally will come to no harm?"
"He is Mrs. Annesley's son and I have no doubt your brother made all the necessary inquiries, at the University and in Town, before inviting Edwin. I also believe that the purpose for this weekend is for them to meet face to face and see what happens."
"I hope Edwin proves worthy of Sally. I will be very sorry to lose Sally. She has been more than my maid. She saved me from Wickham's machinations, she is a good friend and she is an excellent seamstress."
"Yes she is all that and she is also a young woman with a desire for love, family, children."
"Dear Reynie, no one could be happier for Sally than I. Though if Sally marries I am going to need a new maid, how or where do we find a replacement?"
"Let us see what happens over the weekend, and if things turn out as we expect Sally and I shall find you a proper replacement."
"I know you will. I love you very much Reynie."
"I love you too darling. Now let us finish our tea and I must go and ensure Edwin's room is ready."
The following morning Edwin arrived. He was met by the Master and his mother. I showed him to his room and invited him to join the Master in the Library as soon as he was settled. I then returned to my room. I knew that Sally and Miss Georgiana were joining the Master and Edwin for lunch and that the Master intended to take Edwin for a ride in the afternoon. I assumed the Master knew what he was doing and decided to let matters unfold naturally.
Early the following morning, looking out of my window, I saw Edwin and Sally out for a stroll. Later on the four young people went out for a picnic lunch. When they returned the Master sent me a note telling me that Mrs. Annesley and Edwin were going to have dinner at the vicar's (Mrs. Annesley's brother). I began to worry, Edwin was leaving early Monday morning and it looked like nothing was happening.
My Sunday as usual was spent at the farm, and by the time I returned to Pemberley it was very late. We had spent most of the day helping Anne decide what to pack, leave behind, give away. It had been a hard day emotionally. When I reached my room and discovered no note from Sally my disappointment was great.
Early the next morning I saw Edwin ride off and my heart was heavy. A couple of hours later there was a knock on my door, it was Sally. Looking at her it was obvious that all my fears were groundless, she was radiant. I pulled her towards me and gave her a kiss and a warm hug. I then made her sit down and tell me all about it.
"Reynie is anything wrong?" I was crying by now.
"Nothing my dear, I am just so happy for you. Not finding a note on my door last night and seeing Edwin leave this morning without anyone bidding him farewell made me fear the worst."
"How could you Reynie. You are the one who told me you were sure he was honourable."
"But even men may change their minds occasionally."
"Not my Edwin." Said Sally with such love and pride that I hugged her tight and requested all the details.
"Lunch on Friday was a bit awkward as Edwin and I had never met socially but the Master and Miss Georgiana soon made me comfortable. Edwin and I were seated opposite one another and every time I looked up, he was watching me and smiling. I've never blushed so often in my life. Supper was a quiet meal, Edwin was tired, but we arranged we would meet early in the morning for a short stroll."
"Yes I saw you through the window. What was he telling you?"
"He talked of his life at the University, the Fellows, the students and the courses. It sounded fascinating. I could have listened to him for hours. Unfortunately we were unchaperoned so after twenty minutes or so he walked me back to the house. After the picnic the Master and Miss Georgiana remained seated and played chess and Edwin and I went on a walk. This time he invited me to the vicar's for supper. I said I thought the vicar would prefer just the family and Edwin said "I have written of you so often to my uncle, he considers you part of the family." I was embarrassed and made us return to the Master and Miss Georgiana."
"Why were you embarrassed? I think he was trying to compliment you."
"I was still unsure of what his intentions were. There was one more day and it did not seem like he was going to propose. That night I cried myself to sleep." I hugged her once again.
"You went to Church the following morning and then…"
"Apparently before we set out for Church Edwin spoke with the Master asking for my hand. The Master told him that he had to ask me. The Master also told him that if I agreed to marry him, he would endow me with a small dowry and would give me away."
"That is very generous of the Master."
"Edwin tried to speak to me during the morning on a number of occasions but I kept slipping away, eventually he asked for the Master's assistance. The Master called for me and asked me to the Conservatory to find a book Georgie had apparently forgotten there. Instead of a book I found Edwin. He sat me down on the love seat and then bent down and proposed. I don't think I heard above one word in ten. In fact Edwin had to ask me three times before I realized he was waiting for an answer. I am the happiest woman in the world."
"When and where are you planning on getting married?"
"On Monday the 12th of October. We have asked the Master if we may marry at the church they attend in London and he has said he will write to the vicar and ask him to read the banns. I chose that date as it gives me a month to prepare, to train a replacement and most importantly it means Anne will be at the wedding."
"I am sure she will be delighted."
Sally sat in my room for another half an hour until it was time for her to go up to Miss Georgiana.
"What shall we do about Miss Georgiana Reynie?"
"Let me speak to Mary, she may know of someone. I must also speak to the Master about it, he may have certain requirements. Have you told Georgie?"
"No not yet, I am going to tell her now."
I kissed her once again and as soon as she left I sat down and penned a note to Mary asking for her advice. After sending off the note I went for a walk. For a change I did not head towards the lake but rather towards the woods. As I approached the bridge I saw the Master, he was staring at a point further on and I could tell his mind was far away. I did not want to disturb him but I accidentally kicked a stone and he awoke from his reverie.
"I see you have heard the news?" The Master said.
"Yes I have, Sally has just left me. I am very happy for them."
"So am I, they will do well together. They obviously care very much for one another, they share the same interests and they are eager to teach and learn from one another and from others."
"I will be sorry to lose Sally, she has been like a daughter to me. She has also been a very good friend to Georgie."
"Yes I believe Georgie will be affected the most. How do we go about finding her a new maid?"
"I have written to Mary to see if she has any ideas. Do you Sir have any preferences, requirements?"
"Only one, that she will be loyal to Georgie, nothing else matters."
"You would not mind if it was a young girl born on the estate or from Lambton?"
I was a bit surprised to hear the Master say that his only requirement was loyalty to Miss Georgiana. I was sure he would want a maid from Town, someone with experience, yet his only condition was loyalty.
"Reynie a month ago a young lady walked these woods. After she had told me she thought Pemberley was 'delightful' and 'charming', I asked to be introduced to her companions. She introduced them as 'Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, my aunt and uncle from Cheapside' she then watched me carefully to see if I will decamp, I refused to do so and discovered two intelligent, warm hearted people. All this made me realize two things. The first thing was that there could never be anyone else for me but Elizabeth. The second that one of the attributes I most admire in her is her loyalty to her family, friends and neighbours and I wished to become part of that select group. Until that happens, if it ever does, I wish others to feel that type of loyalty. So I do not care where the new maid comes from as long as she will be loyal to Georgie."
"I understand Sir and if I may say so I believe you are already part of that group."
"Why do you say that, Reynie?"
"Georgie told me of Miss Elizabeth's actions when Miss Bingley mentioned the militia, I would claim that falls under the category of loyalty to you and to Georgie."
"I hope you are right Reynie."
I left him by the bridge and walked back to the house. My practical nature had reasserted itself and I knew what had to be done. We had a month in which to finalize Anne's travel arrangements, organize a wedding and find a new maid. Now was no time for moping, crying or regrets, there was too much to do. By the time I had reached the house I had three different lists in my head.
Chapter Thirty
The Master left Pemberley early Saturday morning. I knew he would not arrive in London before Monday afternoon. I assumed I would not hear from him for at least a week, yet five days after he left for London, he sent me a short note.
13th August 1812.
Fitzwilliam Darcy.
20th August 1812.
I will be home in three days time. All arrangements have been completed. Miss Lydia is at the Gardiners, where she will remain until her wedding day. Wickham's debts have been paid and a commission has been bought for him. They will be moving to Newcastle after a short visit to Longbourn.
Fitzwilliam Darcy.Chapter Thirty-One
Chapter Thirty-Two
For the next two weeks the Master acted as though he hadn't a worry on his mind. He took his guests out every day, and there was music and dancing at night. The Master decided he would not tell his guests he had to leave Pemberley again until the last minute. I assumed he did not want to be asked too many questions, or to feel obliged to extend them an invitation to remain further at Pemberley.Chapter Thirty-Three
The following morning was the last day but one of the Bingleys' stay and the Master took them out for a long drive. They returned a couple of hours before dinner and while the ladies prepared themselves for their last supper at Pemberley, the Master asked John and me to meet him in the Conservatory.Chapter Thirty-Four
Chapter Thirty-Five