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Chapter Forty

The Master left on Wednesday morning to Hertfordshire, leaving with me his travel itinerary. I saw him ride off and in my heart I wished him well. I did not have time to dwell on the Master's concerns as Bea arrived shortly afterwards.

I took Bea up to Miss Georgiana's rooms where Sally was waiting for her. I left her in Sally's hands and went to my room to complete preparations for the trip to Town. It had been decided we would leave Pemberley on Tuesday the 29th of September. We were due to arrive in London on Thursday morning, a couple of days before the Master.

We were a rather large party, Miss Georgiana, Mrs. Annesley, Sally, Bea, Mary, Anne and me. The men John, James, Henry, William and Emily would be joining us about a week later. The men would be staying with Mrs. Watkins and Emily would share Anne's room. I had not wanted to impose so much on the Master's generosity and hospitality but he insisted, claiming it was the least he could do for his sister who was about to lose two good friends, for an intrepid traveler and a bride.

Bea seemed to settle in quickly and quietly. Miss Georgiana seemed to like her and would spend many hours showing her around Pemberley, inside and out. Sally was too busy thinking of Edwin and her upcoming nuptials to be jealous. Anne was saying her goodbyes to everyone that she knew and deciding what she could not leave behind.

In short the last week in Pemberley passed quickly and the day before we left I received a letter from the Master. I regret to say I had not had much time to think about him but seeing his writing made me pause and I must admit I opened the letter with some apprehension.

Netherfields,
26th September 1812.

Dear Reynie,
I have arrived safely in Hertfordshire. The trip was uneventful and I arrived on Thursday afternoon. Charles was waiting for me quite impatiently. He wished to call on some of the neighbours but was lacking the courage to do it alone. He did not know I was in a worse state but I rallied and we arranged we would do some hunting on Friday and make calls on Saturday.

Saturday morning duly arrived and I do not think you would have found two more anxious people. It was obvious that there was only one call to make yet so much depended on it that we were at once both reluctant and eager to go. Eventually we rode out to Longbourn.

We were met by Mrs. Bennet who though very happy to see Charles was barely civil to me and I can not say I blame her. After slighting her daughter so publicly I was surprised she even allowed me to enter the house. I managed a quick glance at Elizabeth but she would not raise her eyes from her embroidery. I therefore decided I would spend most of the call trying to gauge, if I could, Miss Jane's welcome to Charles and myself.

We spent over half an hour at Longbourn. I managed to ask Elizabeth about the Gardiners which she answered with some confusion. She enquired about Georgie and seemed pleased when I told her about Bea and that was all the conversation we had. She grows more beautiful each time I see her and I found it difficult to look away from her, but I reminded myself of my obligation to Bingley and turned my attention back to Miss Jane.

Miss Jane seemed as good natured and unaffected as she was last year. I think she was a bit quieter but it was obvious she was pleased with my friend's manners. Looking at her while Mr. Bingley was telling the Bennets a story about his sisters I noticed she was observing him carefully, almost lovingly. I realized then that I had been mistaken in my original assessment of her affection to Charles she loved Charles as much as I loved Elizabeth. I felt remorse. I wondered whether she would ever forgive me.

From Miss Jane's welcome and her behaviour to me I can only assume that Elizabeth has not told her of my role in separating Charles from her. This is my only ray of hope for now, Elizabeth's loyalty to me, I shall hold on to it until I have something more tangible.

As we left Mrs. Bennet invited us for dinner on Tuesday. According to her Charles '[is] quite a visit in my debt… you promised to take a family dinner with us…' Charles was a little embarrassed but accepted the invitation for both of us. I shall not see Elizabeth until Tuesday, when I hope we will be able to talk for a little bit longer.

I now know I must tell Charles everything. I shall wait and see what happens on Tuesday and if his attentions to Miss Jane continue I shall reveal all on Thursday or Friday before I leave for Town.

Have a safe trip to London. Take your time, you must all arrive safely. I shall see you on Saturday.

Affectionately,
Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Reading in between the lines it seemed as though Miss Elizabeth was not averse to receiving the Master. It seemed as though she was indeed loyal to him and Miss Georgiana, as I suspected. I wondered what she thought of the news about Bea and whether she realized it was a compliment to her insight. I also understood the Master's need to tell Mr. Bingley everything, it was the last part of the process that had begun after Miss Elizabeth's rejection and without it the Master would never try again. I hoped for the best and wondered what mood he will be in when he arrives in London at the end of the week. I hoped it would be a hopeful one as I did not want Sally's and Anne's last week to be gloomy.

Posted on Tuesday, 1 January 2008

Chapter Forty-One

On Saturday, three days before we were due to leave Emily came to tell me that some of Anne's friends at Lambton had organized a surprise farewell party for her. The party was due to be held on Tuesday evening. After a quick consultation we decided we would postpone our departure by a day and leave very early Wednesday morning. I sent an express to Mrs. Watkins and the Master and went about my business.

The trip to Town passed uneventfully if you disregard a lost hat, a forgotten bag and a cold meal at one of the inns. Yet as Bea said "How else would we remember this trip?" We arrived rather tired at Grosvenor Square late on Thursday evening in time for dinner. Mrs. Watkins had a light dinner ready for us and after we had eaten we went straight to bed.

The next morning I was as usual up bright and early and as I was coming down the stairs to go to the breakfast room, one of the maids came to me and asked if I would join Mrs. Watkins for a cup of coffee, I followed her immediately. Mrs. Watkins was delighted to have a full house and for such a joyful occasion. She informed me the Master had sent her instructions to prepare a wedding breakfast for the young couple. It was to be held at the house immediately after the wedding. He had also requested that she make an appointment for Sally and Edwin to meet the vicar before the wedding, the meeting had been set up for Thursday, I promised I would tell Sally.

As I was about to leave Mrs. Watkins said "How is the Master?"

"Why are you asking Martha?" I said.

"His last two visits here have been fleeting and unorthodox to say the least and I did not have much of a chance to speak or see him. I was wondering whether he had recovered from his last long stay here. That first month had me very worried, and though later he seemed to recover, he was not quite himself."

I was unsure how much to tell Martha. It was true the Master seemed recovered but I knew a full recovery would only occur after Miss Elizabeth accepted his proposal of marriage. I decided to fill Martha in on some of the events that had occurred in the past few months. When I had finished Martha sat quietly for minute and two and then said "Now I understand."

"Understand what Martha?" I asked.

"Soon after the Master returned from Rosings he requested that no one enter his study, not even to clean it. A week later he approached me and asked if I could personally clean his study as he did not want any of the other servants entering the room. I agreed but believe me I was quite shocked at the state of the room. Scraps of paper strewn all over, cup and glass markings on his desk and the small table, a blanket on the floor, books all over the study and an almost empty decanter of whisky on his desk. It took over two hours to clean the study."

"Why didn't he want one of the other servants cleaning the study?"

"As I was picking up the scraps of paper I noticed something…"

"Let me guess, the name Elizabeth."

"Yes, there was Elizabeth Darcy, Lizzy Darcy, Eliza Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet and so forth. Some looked like the start of a letter, others like love notes and there was even one piece of paper with the words Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy. I realized that if any other servant would have seen those papers the rumour that the Master was suffering from a broken heart would travel through the house and though I know the staff is very loyal to the Master I did not wish them to be discussing the issue."

"I hope one day you will meet Miss Elizabeth Bennet, she is an exceptional young lady."

"Well it will be good to put a face to the name."

"What happened the next time you had to clean out the study?"

"There was no next time. I went to the Master as soon as I had finished cleaning the study and told him that asking me to clean his study and not the regular maids was sure to arouse suspicion among the servants. He looked at me rather strangely and said 'You are right Martha forgive me, I was not thinking. Please tell Leah I will be out of my study every morning between nine and ten, she may clean it then.' "

"And was he out of the room?"

"Every day between nine and ten he could be seen walking up and down the garden. He never said anything but there was such a strong sense of despondency about him than no one dared approach him, not even my little Richard."

Richard was Mrs. Watkins three year old grandson and a general favourite about the household. He could as easily be found sitting on the Master's knee while being read a story, going through Miss Georgiana's dresses or attempting to pat one of the horses in the stable. It was for me another sign of how grave the situation had been with the Master that month. I was glad I was not in London at the time as I am sure I would have cried myself to sleep every night.

I left Mrs. Watkins and went to see if the girls were up. I found them in the breakfast room planning. Other than shopping they wished to go to the park, to their favourite "The National Portrait Museum" and maybe even see a show or two at the Little Theatre. I had to remind the girls there was much to do during the coming week other than shopping. Anne would probably have to call on her prospective employer, Sally had to meet the vicar and Bea still had much to learn.

The girls were a bit disappointed so I promised them they could have at least two afternoons to themselves, to do as they wished. After much discussion it was decided their free afternoons would be Monday and Thursday.

After breakfast Anne, Sally, Mary and me left to do some shopping. Georgiana had some studying to do in the morning and Bea stayed behind to do some sewing. It was a merry party but unfortunately there were many distractions on the way, a florist here for the bouquet, a book shop, a general supply store for some paint brushes, paper and paints for Anne, purchasing two new trunks one for Sally and one for Anne. In short when we arrived back at the house we were tired yet disappointed we had accomplished so little. It was determined that the next day we would concentrate on clothes only.

We arrived home in time for tea, where Georgiana and Bea recounted to us their adventures for the day. Georgiana had decided to teach Bea to ride a horse and though it seemed Bea was a natural there were still some falls and missteps. Sally shuddered at the thought of horse riding, no matter how often Georgie, the Master and even John offered to teach her she refused. For Sally a horse had one place, in front of a cart or carriage, and I must admit I felt the same. I preferred walking to riding and John, William and Anne had long given up on me. It was late by the time we dispersed yet the Master had not yet arrived. I heard him come in close to eleven o'clock.

Chapter Forty-Two

On Saturday morning I was the first one up and as I walked into the breakfast room Mrs. Watkins was walking out. I informed her that we would be out most of the day, looking for clothes. I enquired whether she could make any recommendations on the matter and she was happy to be of assistance. I was busy writing out the addresses of the shops she was mentioning when the Master walked in. He acknowledged us and stepped into the breakfast room. Martha suggested we try some of the warehouses in Cheapside, she said some of them had very good quality clothes for a reasonable price. I decided we would go there first.

As Mrs. Watkins turned to leave the Master called out "Martha, I will not be home for lunch, I am meeting the Colonel. I think I may be able to persuade him to come back with me for supper, if you promise to make him your chocolate mousse cake." Mrs. Watkins blushed and said that the Colonel was welcome any time. I knew exactly how she felt, the Colonel was one of my favourite people as well.

The Master and I breakfasted quietly. He was reading the paper and I was thinking of Meg's list. Meg had sent in her last letter a list of things she thought Anne may need. Some Anne had already but others needed to be acquired in the next week or so. I was trying to work out how to organize the shopping, so we could be more efficient, when the Master said "Reynie when you are finished would you mind joining me for a walk in the garden."

"Of course not Sir, I'll be done in a minute." I quickly finished my coffee which was cold by now and we both got up and stepped outside. Though it was, relatively, a big garden there was very little scope for the imagination, unlike at Pemberley and I found myself blessing my good fortune for being in Pemberley most of the year and not in Town. We walked through the garden silently for a couple of minutes and then the Master said "I've been so distracted lately I had not realized Christmas is almost upon us. Last night I remembered the Darcy tradition and I became aware of the fact we might be unable to prepare the baskets in time for Christmas. Do you think we should buy some of the things, here in Town?"

I smiled "Sir we've had a whole year to prepare."

"What do you mean Reynie?"

"John and Anne's cabinet in John's shed is overflowing with toys, games and pictures. Miss Georgiana, Mary and Mrs. Annesley have been knitting doilies all year. As we speak Cook is preparing preserves and Henry has already put aside enough Pemblam for the baskets."

"Please accept my apologies for underestimating you all, I have no excuse to offer on the matter except for my self centredness."

"You are forgiven Sir, it has not been an easy year for you, but once a tradition has been started it is very difficult to stop. The tradition takes on a life of its own and you find yourself swept along."

The Master nodded in acknowledgement and fell silent again. I was very curious to hear of what had happened at Hertfordshire but could not bring myself to ask the Master about the rest of his stay there, so I said nothing. After a few minutes the Master said "Did Martha tell you I spent many hours out here after Rosings?"

"Yes she did. Do you not feel unhappy when you are out here?"

"Strangely enough I do not, I thought I would but after a few days of walking up and down these paths I remembered something Elizabeth once said to the Colonel. She was talking of her love of walking and said 'For me a walk is a chance to be with G-d, nature and myself. It is the only real time when I can appreciate what G-d has given me, what nature has shown me and how I may improve myself.' I started to think along those lines and realized two things. The first was why Elizabeth refused me and the second why I need her, and will fight heaven and earth to make her mine."

I looked at the Master somewhat puzzled, he saw me and smiled "It's quite easy Reynie. What G-d gave me is a beautiful home, a loving sister, very good servants and friends, money and a great need for love. What nature has shown me, the sun always rises giving you new hope, tomorrow is a new day thus allowing you to change, and after a storm the air is calm, clean allowing you to look at things with fresh eyes. How I may improve myself is by seeing the good and decent people everywhere, learning to listen to others, not imposing my will, beliefs and prejudices on others and most important learning to accept myself with all my faults, and there are many of them."

"Sir I could not agree about that, you have faults, we all do, but not as many as you claim."

"Elizabeth and I had a conversation about my character when she came to nurse Miss Bennet, and after saying to me 'I am perfectly convinced by it that Mr. Darcy has no defect. He owns it himself without disguise.' I fell into her trap and gave her a list of my faults saying 'I have faults enough, but they are not, I hope, of understanding.' How wrong I was."

I was about to protest but the Master stopped me and continued "On Tuesday we went to Longbourn for dinner. Unfortunately I had very little conversation with Elizabeth, she asked about Georgiana and I told her she was still at Pemberley with Mrs. Annesley. We left before any of the other guests did so I did not get a chance to tell her I was going away, but rather left a message with Charles to the effect that I had to go away and that I shall return no matter what in about ten days time. I suspect though the message will not be delivered in its entirety, as Charles would still have been cross with me, when he saw the Bennets next."

"When did you tell Mr. Bingley of your interference in his affairs?"

"On the Friday before I left. I had considered telling him on Thursday evening but did not have the courage. I feared he would, rightly, throw me out of Netherfield. As it was he was very angry and upset especially for Miss Bennet. I apologized most profusely and told him that I believed Miss Bennet returned his affection, but he should not take my word for it but trust in himself. I hope to receive a letter in the next few days announcing their engagement."

"Do you think he will forgive you Sir?"

"Yes Reynie I think he will, once he has gained the hand of 'an angel', as he calls Miss Bennet."

"I hope so Sir, for all our sakes."

"Reynie the message Charles is supposed to deliver is to cover that contingency. Even if he does not forgive me, and does not invite me back to Netherfield, I shall return to Meryton to gain her hand."

"Well I don't know whether Jamie will appreciate being in the inn at Meryton, but he'll have no choice." I said thinking of Jamie's dislike of country inns.

The Master looked at me and laughed. We walked around the garden for another few minutes talking of Sally's wedding, Anne's departure, the Christmas baskets and such. By the time we entered the breakfast room again, everyone had arrived.

Chapter Forty-Three

At breakfast it was decided that Sally, Anne and me would go to the warehouses Mrs. Watkins recommended. Mary decided to stay home she was still exhausted from the trip. Mrs. Annesley was going out with Bea to call upon a mutual acquaintance, and Georgiana was going calling with her Aunt. We arranged to meet again at tea time.

Sally, Anne and I were very grateful for Mrs. Watkins advice. We were able to buy some very fine and useful things for both the bride and the traveler. In one of the warehouses I saw a familiar face, Mr. Gardiner, he noticed me and came over. With his assistance we were able to finish our business much sooner than expected. As we left I asked him to give my regards to his wife. In the cab on the way home Sally said to me "I thought you had never been to that warehouse before."

"I was not. Mr. Gardiner is Miss Elizabeth's uncle, and his wife is Emily's second cousin."

"You mean the Master's Miss Elizabeth?" said Anne.

"Yes the very one, but please girls do not mention our meeting to the Master."

"Very well mother" and "Very well Reynie" were the responses I received and I was satisfied for the moment.

At tea time we exchanged news, showed off our purchases and listened to some music. Later the Master and the Colonel joined us for dinner. The Colonel told us amusing stories about his superiors and his soldiers and he asked Anne questions about her intended trip. The Master did not say much, he seemed somewhat preoccupied and for the most part we let him be.

After dinner the Master approached Sally and asked her to join him in his study for a few minutes. The rest of us went into the drawing room. The Master and Sally joined us about ten minutes later and Sally came over and sat next to me.

"Is everything well Sally dear?" I asked.

"Yes Reynie, the Master wants to introduce me to the vicar tomorrow so that when Edwin and I meet him on Thursday it will not be as complete strangers."

"That makes sense," I said.

"The Master has also told me that he is giving me a small dowry as well as compensation for my years at service with Miss Georgiana. He is giving me about 700 pounds."

"I suggest you ask the Master to advise you on how to invest it."

"The Master has also said he will give me away at the altar, I had thought of asking John to do it."

"I am sure John will not mind. I hope you agreed?"

"It would have been very rude to do otherwise," said Sally.

I agreed with her, we chatted for another couple of minutes and as she got up to ask Mrs. Annesley something, Anne came over.

"The Master has told me that Mrs. Newbury would like me to call on her on Monday morning."

Mrs. Newbury was the lady Anne was to accompany to the United States. I had been expecting this, as I was sure Mrs. Newbury would want to meet Anne before they left in order to make her own observations and not trust the word of her friend's nephew. I just hoped she would not want Anne to spend the last night with her.

""Who will take you to her?" I asked.

"The Master, and he thought you might want to join us."

I was grateful for the Master's thoughtfulness, I did want to meet this woman with whom my Anne was about to travel so far away. I acknowledged the invitation and was glad to see Anne's relief. We arranged we would call on her on Monday at noon time.

Slowly one by one we all departed to our rooms and went to sleep. The following day being Sunday was a quiet day. We went to church in the morning, a walk in the afternoon and reading in the evening. Sally was relieved to discover the vicar was a kindly person and she confirmed their meeting on Thursday. Edwin was due to arrive in London on Wednesday, he would be staying with a friend and joining us for dinner.

The following day Mrs. Annesley took Sally and Georgiana shopping. Sally wanted to buy a couple of hats and Georgiana wanted to buy Sally a wedding gift. Mary decided she wanted to spend some time with her sister, Mrs. Watkins and Anne, the Master and I went calling on Mrs. Newbury.

I was relieved to discover that Mrs. Newbury was a gentle, quiet spoken woman. Her house seemed to be a well run house and it was obvious that her servants cared greatly for her. She had difficulties walking and I noticed that whenever she moved there was always a servant keeping an eye on her to ensure she does not fall.

We spent almost an hour at the house. She and Anne discovered they had a number of things in common. They both liked to read, paint and observe people. Mrs. Newbury expressed a wish to meet Anne once more, and it was decided Anne would come and spend Thursday morning with her.

There was talk of Anne coming to the house to sleep on the Monday before their departure, but after it was explained to Mrs. Newbury that we had a wedding on the Monday it was agreed that Anne would meet her on the pier, a couple of hours before the ship was due to depart. I was happy as it meant John and I could take her to the ship on Monday morning.

We got back to the house in time for a light lunch. By two o'clock everyone had returned and as I had promised this was to be their free afternoon. The girls they went through the paper looking for attractions. They found an announcement for a concert in Hyde Park and decided to go. The Master gave them his carriage and when they returned that evening their eyes were sparkling, their faces were glowing. After dinner they shared some of the music with us and I knew I had done right by them. I went to sleep content.

Chapter Forty-Four

The following morning we all met at breakfast. Afterwards we sat around discussing what still had to be acquired, arrangements that needed to be discussed with the vicar at the meeting on Thursday and so forth. While we were talking Georgiana expressed a wish to join us. She said, rightly, that Mrs. Annesley was also an involved party, through Edwin, and that it was only fair she would be part of the preparations, I agreed with her and we decided we'd approach the Master on the issue that very morning.

As we were about to leave the room to prepare for our daily outing, the Master came to the door and requested that I come to his study. He was holding a letter in his hand. My mind immediately began to imagine all kinds of disasters, tragedies and I was quite disconcerted by the time we reached his study.

"Reynie what's wrong?" said the Master.

"Please Sir tell me what has happened I cannot bear the tension."

"Reynie what are you talking about?"

"That letter that you are holding in your hand what bad news does it bear?"

"The letter…" the Master looked at his hand and began to laugh.

"Sit down Reynie, it is not what you think it is."

I sat down feeling calmer the Master would not have laughed if he was the bearer of bad news.

"The letter is from Charles Bingley. Would you like to hear it?"

I began to smile. It was well known that letters from Mr. Bingley rarely made sense to those fortunate enough to receive them. As he was always in a hurry words would be omitted others blotted out, in short, his letters were more often than not a riddle.

"Yes Sir I would."

"Netherfield,
5th October 1812.

Dear Darcy,
You have **** day **** happiness ***** I am **** to ***** angel ***** Bennet.
I proposed ******* was ***** and am now ***** person in **** world.
Have **** Bennet. The family **** and I am **** acquainted **** sisters. Have not **** Caroline yet ***** wait. Elizabeth **** happy yet **** same time. Do you **** for Elizabeth? ***** special ******.
When ***** return to Nether*****?

Sincerely,
Charles Bingley."

"I assume Sir that it means he is engaged to Miss Jane Bennet, and that he is waiting for your return."

"Yes I suppose so, but I wish he would write clearly."

"You are concerned about how the news would affect Miss Elizabeth?"

"No Reynie, I am sure she is very happy for them both, I just wish I knew what he meant when he wrote 'Elizabeth **** happy yet ****'."

"I do not know Sir you will have to wait till you return to Netherfield."

"You are right Reynie. What are your plans for today?"

After informing him of our plans I presented Georgiana's request to him. Thinking it over he agreed there was some merit in her request and consented that she join us on our excursions. He then said he was going to show her Bingley's letter and at the same time would give her his permission. As I left the room I heard him say under his breath "no Charles I do not know any one who will be good enough for Elizabeth."

As I returned to my room to prepare for our daily trip I found myself blessing the Lord for giving my Master such forgiving friends, and praying that all was well at the county of Hertfordshire.

Our day passed quickly and the evening was spent on making slight changes to some of the items that had been bought. Anne and Georgiana played backgammon and Mary read us some poetry. This was our last night together and I cherished every moment of it. Edwin was arriving the following day, and the men with Emily late Thursday evening. I think we all sensed it in a way, and each one of us as we left found just one other thing to do, to tell, to share before going to sleep.

I was the last to leave and as I closed the door I thought of Ecclesiastes "to every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven … a time to keep and a time to cast away…" This was the time for letting go, letting the young ones make their own way through the world, making a new life for themselves, learning new things, having new experiences and even making their own mistakes. We did all we could while we had them, we taught them all we knew, we loved them, occasionally scolded them, now it was up to them to carry on.

On Wednesday morning Sally and Mrs. Annesley went once again to the warehouses as Mrs. Annesley wished to buy the young couple a wedding present. Mary and Georgiana took Anne out with them as each wished to buy her a farewell present. I stayed in the house helping Mrs. Watkins prepare the house for the extra visitors due the following night and deciding the menus for the coming dinners and wedding breakfast. By the time we had finished the others had returned and we had a light lunch.

We had a quiet afternoon at home that day. Anne and Sally began to arrange their stuff and pack. Bea had another riding lesson. Mrs. Annesley, Mary and I caught up with our correspondence, mending and adding final details to the gifts we had prepared the girls. After Sally had announced her engagement we decided we would knit each one of them a blanket. We had divided the work between us and on this Wednesday we completed the work. We then wrapped each blanket and hid them in Mary's room.

Edwin arrived at around six o'clock. I tried to give the young couple some privacy but was unsuccessful, at the end I sent them out to the garden for a few minutes. When they returned they were glowing. Dinner was very lively, Edwin had to hear about every item that had been bought, where it had been bought and sometimes even how much it cost. He bore it very well I suppose it makes a change to the usual talk he hears. Before he left to return to his friend it was arranged he would come by in the morning and pick up Sally to their appointment with the vicar.

Posted on Sunday, 10 February 2008

Chapter Forty-Five

The following morning Anne left after breakfast to walk over to Mrs. Newbury, as had been arranged. The Master who had some business meetings in the area walked with her. Anne tried to resist but after the Master explained that it would be improper for her to arrive at Mrs. Newbury without an escort Anne agreed. "I know you do not like it Anne," he said, "but that's the way it is done in Town." He advised her not to refuse Mrs. Newbury's offer to send her home with one of her footmen as it would offend Mrs. Newbury. Anne agreed, rather reluctantly, I must say.

Edwin came to pick up Sally around ten o'clock. As it was a fine morning they decided to walk over to the vicar's house. Mrs. Watkins sent one of the kitchen maids with them to show them the way. They were to meet Mrs. Annesley afterwards for lunch at Edwin's Aunt, his father's sister.

Anne and Sally promised Georgiana they would be back by three o'clock so they could go to the "National Portrait Museum." Georgiana decided to spend the morning visiting some of her friends and took Bea with her. By eleven o'clock the only ones left in the house were Mary and me.

"Sarah, was there anything special you wanted to do, see, this morning?" Mary asked.

"Actually there is," I replied, "but there is one condition- you must not tell the girls or the Master where we spent the morning."

"Why all the mystery Sarah, this is very unlike you."

"I know, but when you hear where I want to go you will understand. I'd like to call on Mrs. Gardiner, nee Mary Brent, will you come with me?"

"Sarah, are you sure?"

"Yes Mary. Please trust me."

"Very well I shall tell no one."

We asked Mr. Watkins to stop a cab for us and left for Gracechurch Street. Mrs. Gardiner was at home and pleased to see us. We spent a delightful hour with her recalling old stories and friends. Before we left I told her that Emily was due to arrive that evening, and would be staying in London for about five days. Mrs. Gardiner asked me to pass a message to Emily that if she wished to call on her during her stay, Saturday would be the best time to do so. She would then be able to see the children as well. I said I would pass the message on and mentioned that she would probably come accompanied by my son, William.

As we left I inquired about Miss Elizabeth. Mrs. Gardiner said nothing for a few seconds and then said "You probably know the reason why we had to leave Lambton so suddenly in the summer."

I nodded my head in acknowledgement. Mrs. Gardiner continued "My niece was very distraught about it, though I suspect she was distressed for other reasons as well. I have lately been in communication with her and, in accordance with her request, have supplied her with some details of which she was unaware. I hope this information will assist her in her deliberations."

"So do I, she truly is an extraordinary young lady," I said.

We smiled at one another and said our goodbyes. On our way home Mary said to me "You seem very pleased with yourself."

"I am," I responded.

"And I assume you and Mrs. Gardiner understood one another," Mary continued.

"Yes we did. Mary I promise you I'll tell you all about it when we get back to Pemberley."

Mary looked at me and smiled "you needn't say anything," she said. "You look as pleased as Punch and I can only assume that I shall get to meet this paragon in the next few months."

"Mary, please say nothing of this to the girls or the Master. I do not wish to spoil the Master's mood just before the wedding."

"Don't worry Sarah, my lips are sealed," she leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek. "I shall now repeat something John has said more than once 'When will you ever stop feeling like their mother?'"

"When I have seen them both settled and happy," I answered.

We had a quiet lunch with Georgiana and Bea and at four o'clock the girls left for the Museum. Mary and I helped Mrs. Watkins with some last minute arrangements. Shortly after the girls returned from the Museum John, James, Henry, William and Emily arrived. Emily was whisked off to Anne's room, Henry and William were each going to stay with a friend living nearby and John and James were sent to their rooms to change. The Master was not home for dinner that evening and by the time he had returned we were in the drawing room listening to some music. He greeted everyone and after exchanging a few words with each of the men, he left the room. Shortly afterwards we sent Henry and William on their way and went to sleep.

That night I told John about Mr. Bingley and Miss Jane Bennet, about my walk with the Master and about my visit to Mrs. Gardiner. John listened quietly and said "Sarah, didn't I once tell you to trust the Master, now let us go to sleep." He kissed me and a minute later was fast asleep. I lay awake thinking over what he said and decided that as usual John was right. I turned towards him and fell asleep.

The following morning was a late start. The travelers were tired and did not rise until after nine. After breakfast Emily went with Anne and Sally to buy them gifts and to do some shopping. Henry had a meeting with the Master and William went to meet some friends. The Colonel took Miss Georgiana out and Mrs. Annesley took Bea with her on some errands. John, James, Mary and me decided to go and spend the morning at Kew Gardens. We spent a couple of hours there and came back starving. After a light lunch the men went to lie down and we went to see how the preparations for the farewell dinner were coming along.

As we approached the kitchen we could hear crying. We went in and found one of the kitchen maids sitting on one of the stools crying her eyes out. It took a few minutes but we soon understood what the problem was, Cook had left instructions for a certain potato dish and the maid had lost the instructions. As the dish she referred to was one of the Master's favourites I soon set her right and she calmed down. When Cook returned we asked if we could help, Cook was very grateful and we soon found ourselves kneading, rolling and stirring. When Mrs. Watkins found us in the kitchen she laughed and reminded us that dinner was at six.

Dinner was indeed at six, the table was overflowing with food, drinks and dishes. I had invited two others to join us, the Colonel and Edwin's friend. We were thus eight men and eight women round the table. There were no set places and at the end of each course we changed seats. It was a merry party and I fear we all somewhat over imbibed over the many toasts to the young couple and the traveler. Mr. Watkins and Jamie made us each drink a nasty concoction before we went to sleep, to ensure we did not wake up with a hangover the following morning.

Chapter Forty-Six

We were all rather late getting up that Saturday. Most of the morning was spent quietly at home recovering from our indulgence. The Master and William went for a walk in the Park and I noticed that both William and the Master were thoughtful when they returned. Before lunch I went to the library to get a book and whilst I was looking for it Sally came in.

"Reynie, may I speak with you?"

"Of course Sally. How can I help you?"

"Do you remember I went shopping with Mrs. Annesley last week?"

"Yes I do."

"We began our conversation discussing the wedding plans, life at the University, Edwin and somehow in the course of our conversation I found myself asking Mrs. Annesley questions about the wedding night. She answered all my questions without embarrassment and said the most important thing was trust, adding that if we trusted and spoke openly and honestly to each other we could solve any difficulty that came our way."

"I quite agree with her," I said, "and if you still have any questions I'd be happy to answer. I had planned to talk to you about it this evening but it is obvious there is no need. I am happy you feel so comfortable with Mrs. Annesley you can discuss this with her, it is very heartwarming."

"I do have a problem though and I was wondering whether John could help me with it."

I looked at her wonderingly, why would she need John's assistance and then I realizing what her problem was said "Do you wish me to speak to John or do you want to ask him?"

Sally looked at me blushing "if you could speak to John I would be very grateful."

"I'll speak to him this afternoon and ask him to talk to Edwin this evening."

"Thank you Reynie, for everything," she leaned over and gave me a kiss, she then skipped out of the room and left me to my browsing.

After lunch we all picked up and thus went our separate ways. Emily, accompanied by William, went to call on the Gardiners, Anne and Sally began their packing, Georgiana went out with Dr. Meredith's daughter and Mary, James, John and I went for a walk in the Park.

During our walk I told John of my conversation with Sally, he looked at me for a couple of minutes and said "I shall take Edwin for a walk in the garden before or after dinner and talk with him. I will not be surprised to hear that someone has spoken with him about it, but for Sally's sake I shall do it." I stood on my tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek, I then whispered in his ear "John Reynolds I love you."

We were a small group for dinner that evening as Emily had sent a note that she and William had been invited to stay at the Gardiners for supper, the Master and Miss Georgiana went to their Aunt's for supper. After dinner John took Edwin out for a walk, Henry went to see a friend and the rest of us made our way to the drawing room. No one wanted to read, play, knit or sew and after a few minutes of sitting around doing nothing Anne suggested we play a game. After much deliberation we decided on Charades. We played for almost two hours and by the time the Master and Georgiana had returned most had gone to bed. The only ones still awake were John and I. Georgiana bid us goodnight and went up to her room. The Master joined us for a nightcap.

We sat in the drawing room for over an hour discussing the young couple, Bea's progress, Anne's trip and the preparations for Christmas at Pemberley. It was towards the end of the conversation when the Master said-

"John I presume Sarah has told you everything about Elizabeth?"

"Yes she has Sir. May I enquire what your next step is?"

I was about to rebuke John for his question but the Master forestalled me and said "I wish I knew. I shall leave for Netherfield on Wednesday afternoon to congratulate Charles and Miss Jane. If I think there is any hope of gaining Elizabeth's hand I shall stay there, otherwise I shall return to Pemberley."

"How will you know if Miss Elizabeth has changed her mind, you've been mistaken about her thoughts before?"

"You are right Reynie. I am hoping Elizabeth will indicate to me in her actions of her feelings towards me and I pray I will be able to interpret them properly this time."

"Sir we shall both pray for you," I then got up and walked over to the Master and kissed him, "That's for good luck Sir."

"Thank you both for everything you have done for Georgie and me over the years. I do not think we could have managed without you," the Master then leaned over and returned my kiss. He then shook John's hand and left the room.

"Come Sarah, it's time to go to sleep. We've got a few busy days ahead," John led me to the bedroom and set about preparing to go to sleep. After a few minutes of daydreaming, my practical side asserted itself. John was right we had a wedding coming up, wedding breakfast, seeing Anne off and packing to return to Pemberley, now was not a time for moping, dreaming or regrets.

Sunday morning we went to church and spent the day quietly at home. Sally and Anne finished their packing. Mary and I helped Martha set the table for the wedding breakfast. Sally made the final alterations to her wedding dress and the girls went to the Park for their last walk together. When they returned they approached the Master with an unusual request, they wished to spend Sally's last night together. The Master thought it over for a few minutes and agreed but only on condition that they promise to be asleep by midnight. The girls agreed.

We had supper early and afterwards Sally, Anne, Emily and Georgiana all disappeared for the night. Going to my room later I heard a great deal of laughter coming from Sally's room and I was happy.

We were all up bright and early the next morning. We were due at church at ten o'clock. Mary and I helped Sally get dressed and Bea did her hair. Sally left for church with the Master, Miss Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. The rest of us took a couple of cabs to the church. It was a very moving ceremony, and it was obvious to all that this was a "match made in heaven". After signing their names in the Register we all returned to the house for the wedding breakfast.

The young couple did not stay long at the breakfast. Edwin had to start teaching on Wednesday and he wished to be back at the University as soon as possible. Mrs. Watkins packed up a basket for them and we sent them off with tears in our eyes and smiles on our faces.

As soon as breakfast was over we cleared everything away and began to prepare for our return to Pemberley. Anne was leaving the following day and we were leaving early Wednesday morning.

Chapter Forty-Seven

It had been arranged that John and I were to accompany Anne in the morning to the pier. The ship was due to leave at around noon and Anne was due to meet Mrs. Newbury at nine o'clock by the ship. The Master had offered his coach for the journey and we willingly accepted his offer.

Anne had asked Mary and James to spend Monday afternoon with her. So after the wedding breakfast the three of them left the house and returned a couple of hours later somewhat teary eyed and emotional. I was glad Anne had decided to say her farewells in that manner. Mary and James had in fact brought her up and it was only appropriate that she would wish to spend some time alone with them before leaving. After supper Anne asked William and Emily to join her for a walk in the garden. They were outside for almost an hour and when they returned I noticed Emily was rather quiet. Georgie approached her and after a few minutes they left the room. Anne then came and sat by us.

"Mother do you think I am doing the right thing?" Anne asked.

I looked at her in astonishment, "Anne isn't this what you wanted?"

"Yes it is, but do you think I am doing the right thing?"

I looked at her for a few minutes and said "Yes Anne I believe you are. I believe that the United States as young country still finding its way is eager to receive young people with fresh ideas and ideals. You will be able to do, to see, to feel things there you would never know here. I am sure you will do very well there. Just promise me two things, don't forget we love you and if you ever want to come home we will welcome you with open arms, and let no one demean you."

John looked at Anne and said "Dearest remember the lessons you have learnt in life as daughter, sister, niece, friend and you will never go wrong. Trust in yourself and others will respond to that."

Anne hugged us tight and we sat together in a cocoon of our own for half an hour or so. When I next looked around I noticed that Emily was her old self and that William was trying to catch John's eye. I pointed out the fact to John who immediately got up and went to sit by William. The Master noticed John's move and after a couple of minutes bid us goodnight and left the room. Georgie and Emily made their way towards Anne and me. They then told me that the Master had agreed that Georgie could spend the night with Anne and Emily on the condition that they would go to sleep by midnight. I was glad that Anne's last night would be spent with her two closest friends.

A few minutes later everyone dispersed and as John and I were going up to our room I asked him "What did William want?"

"I'll tell you when we get to our room," John said, I was curious.

Upon reaching our room John sat down and said "William has proposed to Emily and she has accepted him. He will approach her father as soon as we return to Pemberley."

"Oh I am so happy, at last, but why all the secrecy?"

"William does not want the Master to know he has taken this step, not until the Master has done the same."

"But that could be never," I said.

"Not according to William."

"Why do you say that?"

"If you remember William and the Master went out for a walk on Saturday morning. Apparently during that walk the Master reminded William of a conversation they had many years ago about love. Their present talk had somehow drifted towards the relationship between Emily and William and the Master said to William- "I envy you that you can marry someone you love without considering other things like connections, wealth, rank… I wish I could marry just for love.''"

"What did William say to that," I said.

"William said one thing to him "it's actually the other way around." The Master looked puzzled and William explained "because of who you are, you may marry for love you have enough wealth, connections and rank. I, on the contrary, if I wish to advance socially must look out for wealth, connections or rank." The Master stared at William for a couple of minutes absorbing this new concept and then smiled to himself and said "of course I've been so foolish, thank you William.""

I marveled at my son's insight and agreed to keep the news under wraps for the moment. We then went to bed as we had to rise early the next morning. The next morning I was up by six thirty. I woke the girls up at seven and instructed Anne to check she had left nothing behind. We all met for breakfast at eight o'clock. It was a quiet affair and before we left for the pier the Master handed Anne an envelope and said "this is a small token from Georgiana and me. You will be greatly missed Anne. Have a safe journey and don't forget to write to us."

Anne was overcome with emotion, she shook the Master's hand, hugged everyone else and we left for the pier. John and I spent most of the drive looking at Anne, imprinting her image in our memories, Anne spent most of the trip staring out of the window. Reaching the pier we quickly found the ship Devonshire. Yhe driver helped John with Anne's luggage, he then shook Anne's hand and wished her well. He then drove further along allow other carriages to approach the ship.

We made our way unto the ship to discover that Mrs. Newbury had not yet arrived. We found their cabin and after settling Anne in we went to await Mrs. Newbury's arrival. Mrs. Newbury's carriage appeared just after nine o'clock. While Anne and I escorted her to their cabin John helped the driver with her bags. We helped Mrs. Newbury to settle in and then all four of us went to look for the Captain. We found him on the deck talking to some of the other passengers. When he had finished talking John approached him and after introducing himself he presented Mrs. Newbury and Anne to the Captain. I was a bit wary about this move but my doubts disappeared when the Captain said almost immediately "Mrs. Newbury if I may make a suggestion, please do not come up by yourself unto the deck as it can be very slippery. I shall send you one of my men every morning to inquire if you wish to come up and assist you if necessary."

The Captain then turned to Anne and said "you seem like a sensible young lady, Miss Anne. I want you to promise me that you will never attempt to come up or return to your cabin by yourself with Mrs. Newbury without the assistance of one of my men." Anne looked at the Captain and obviously liked what she saw as she immediately promised him to wait for assistance. John and I stayed a few more minutes and then the order came for all non-passengers to leave the ship.

John and I bid Mrs. Newbury farewell and then said our farewells to our daughter. I hugged her close and whispered in her ear "I am going to miss you. Farewell my darling, have a safe trip and never forget us." Anne hugged me tight and then it was time to leave. John and I walked off the ship and I felt as though I was leaving a part of my heart behind, looking back I saw Anne leaning on the rails watching us I waved and smiled all the way to the carriage. When we reached the carriage I began to weep. John held me close all the way home.

Chapter Forty-Eight

When we arrived at Grosvenor Square the driver stopped in front of the house and let us out. As we stepped out we noticed a large carriage at the entrance to the house and John looking at the markings on the carriage said "what is Lady Catherine doing here?" I looked at the carriage and said "are you sure it is Lady Catherine's?"

"Yes I am, by the large D and B on the crest."

We knocked on the door and as Mr. Watkins opened the door we heard loud voices coming from the drawing room, I recognized Lady Catherine's voice. Mr. Watkins led the way to the breakfast room motioning silence with his finger. In the breakfast room we found Martha and Emily.

"What happened?" I asked in a whisper.

"We don't know, Lady Catherine appeared some ten minutes ago and she demanded to see the Master immediately. Luckily Georgiana had left the house a few minutes before her," Martha replied.

"What does Lady Catherine want?" I asked.

"I don't know but her driver said she has been in a terrible mood since yesterday. They left Kent early yesterday morning to Hertfordshire and after a short stop there Lady Catherine insisted on coming unto London. They arrived late last night and this morning she instructed him to bring her here," Mr. Watkins reported.

"Hertfordshire," John and I said, "Oh dear."

John then said to Martha "is there any way we can hear what is being said?"

I looked at John in shock, I would never have thought he would stoop to eavesdropping. "John don't be ridiculous, whatever Lady Catherine has to say to the Master is between her and him."

"Don't you understand Sarah, this no longer involves only the Master it involves all of us, our future, there must be a way we can listen in."

Martha looked at John and said "actually the best place is your room, it is right above the drawing room and as long as Lady Catherine continues to speak loudly you will hear everything."

John then took my hand and pulled me along, after a couple of steps I recovered and quickly followed him to our room. As we entered the room I could hear the Master say "Why did you go to Hertfordshire?"

"To speak to a young woman whom I thought was sensible and pliable only to discover that she is stubborn, impertinent and selfish."

"And the young lady is, I presume, Miss Elizabeth Bennet?" said the Master.

"Of course Darcy, I know of no other woman from Hertfordshire."

"What prompted you to go to see Miss Bennet?"

"A report of a most alarming nature reached me a few days ago and I decided to set off to make my sentiments known to her."

"And the nature of this report Aunt?"

"I was told that not only was her sister to be most advantageously married but that Miss Elizabeth Bennet was soon to be united with you, Darcy. Though I knew it was a scandalous falsehood I was determined to know the truth."

"Your going to see Miss Bennet probably confirmed the report and did not repudiate it."

"What nonsense are you talking Darcy. She wishes to ensnare you by this report and force you into matrimony with her. As your Aunt I could not allow that to happen."

There was silence, John and I looked at each other wondering how much worse it could get for the Master. A couple of minutes later the Master spoke again, it was clear that he was angry at his Aunt and was trying to control himself.

"Who appointed you to decide for me whom I should or should not marry?"

"Darcy how can you ask me that question, you are intended for my Anne. Your mother and I have been planning this union since you were in your cradles."

"Is that what you told Miss Elizabeth?"

"Yes it was, I told her you and Anne have been intended for each other since your infancy, and that no young woman of inferior birth, of no importance in the world and wholly unallied to the family was going to prevent your marriage."

"How did Miss Elizabeth respond to that?" There seemed to be a note of expectation in the Master's voice.

"She told me that the fact that your mother and I had arranged your marriage meant nothing to her. She then went on to say 'You both did as much as you could in planning the marriage. Its completion depended on others. If Mr. Darcy is neither by honour nor inclination confined to his cousin, why is not he to make another choice? And if I am that choice why may I not accept him?'"

"What was your answer Aunt?"

"I told her that honour, decorum, prudence and interest all forbade it. I told her she would not be noticed by the family, that she would be censured, slighted and despised by every one connected to you. The alliance would be considered a disgrace and her name would never be mentioned by any of us."

"You said all that to her, by what right? How could I ever face her again?" the Master sounded dispirited.

"What do you mean by what right I am your closest living relative. But the worst is still to come."

"You mean there is more?"

"Do you know what that young unfeeling girl then said to me, she said 'These are heavy misfortunes but the wife of Mr. Darcy must have such extraordinary sources of happiness necessarily attached to her situation, that she could, upon the whole, have no cause to repine."

"I see," said the Master with a catch in his voice, "and what was your response to that?"

"I tried to explain to her how inappropriate the connection between you would be. You come from different circles in society she has no family connections or fortune. She claimed her father was a gentleman, which I acknowledged to be true. Yet she has her mother and other relatives whose condition in life is decidedly below your own. She then said that if you did not object to them they could be nothing to me."

"What happened next?" It sounded as though the Master wished to have this awful yet informative conversation over as soon as possible.

"I asked her if she was engaged to you, she hesitated for a minute and said no. I then asked her to promise me never to enter into an engagement with you, she refused, moreover she said…"

"Did you say she refused Aunt?"

"Yes Darcy don't you listen, she refused not to become engaged to you. As I was saying moreover she said that she will never give me the assurances I seek, she will not be intimidated and she refuses to be importuned any further on the matter. I told her that her younger sister's elopement with that young man and the thought of the son of your late father's steward being your brother in law would pollute the shades of Pemberley but she refused to listen. In fact she said that I had insulted her, I insulted her, what cheek."

"It would seem I must set matters straight, was there anything else Elizabeth said?"

"Yes Darcy you must go down there and disillusion her. Before we parted she said to me 'neither duty, nor honour, nor gratitude have any possible claim on me, in the present instance. No principle of either would be violated by my marriage with Mr. Darcy. And with regard to the resentment of his family, or the indignation of the world, if the former were excited by his marrying me, it would not give me one moment's concern- and the world in general would have too much sense to join in the scorn.' I then told her I was resolved to carry out my point so here I am to extract a promise from you that you will not marry that upstart."

I held my breath, I knew this was the point of no return for the Master, whatever he decided in the next few minutes would have repercussions on all our lives. John made a yelping sound when I looked at him he pointed to his hands. I was so anxious I was squeezing his hands so tight they had changed colour, I let go and tried to relax. There was no noise from the drawing room except for a constant thudding sound, at first I thought it was the Master pacing but then I realized it was Lady Catherine's cane.

Suddenly we heard the Master's voice "Lady Catherine I can make you one promise I will never marry your daughter Anne. If Miss Elizabeth Bennet accepts me this time, I hope the other members of the family will notice her and accept her, but even if they don't it will make no difference to me."

"If you do marry that obstinate headstrong girl neither of you will ever be welcome at Rosings again."

There was a sound of a chair being moved and we heard Lady Catherine say "I do not need your help Darcy, good bye." We heard the drawing door open and close and then the front door open and closed and then there was silence.