Part I
Elizabeth wanted to survey the prospect before her with delight--for indeed, the grounds sweeping away from the majestic house down to the shimmering lake and the stream disappearing enticingly into the green wood were delightful--but she couldn't. The feeling of sickness was threatening to overwhelm her at any moment.
"Oh, insufferable!" she muttered under her breath and stamped her foot impatiently. "If I can just make it to that tree to rest for a few moments I'm sure I shall feel better." Elizabeth Bennet was travelling in Derbyshire with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. Not wishing to dampen the spirits of the party, Elizabeth had refrained from voicing her discomfort to her relatives. In fact, Elizabeth had a healthy, energetic disposition, and so rarely suffered from ill health that it was difficult for her to admit even to herself that she was unwell. Elizabeth quickly scanned the landscape of the great estate to verify that her aunt and uncle were sufficiently occupied so as to not miss her for a few minutes. She could see them not far distant, engaged in pleasant conversation with the gardener.
Elizabeth raised her hands to her cheeks, which were burning with heat. It's just a warm day, she reassured herself. She gingerly made her way towards the shade of a large willow tree situated next to the lake. The graceful branches of the willow tree draped down into the lake, creating a lovely haven of green light and cool air beneath. Elizabeth spied a small boat moored on the edge of the lake, barely noticeable amidst the drapings of willow branches. She imagined an intimate party of two or three meandering lazily about the lake...that could have been me, she thought wryly to herself for yet another time that day. Elizabeth let the curtain of willow leaves fall behind her and stepped into the shade. Oh, this is lovely, she smiled briefly before a wave of fever enveloped her body. She closed her eyes and leaned her arm against the great willow. Another delightful moment spoilt, she pouted, her hand gently feeling her hot face. She removed her cream-coloured bonnet to reveal a chevelure of golden curls. A bit of cool water on my face would feel nice. Elizabeth dropped her bonnet unconsciously into the grass and made her way closer to the edge of the lake. After dipping her hands in the lapping ripples, she pressed them to her burning cheeks. The refreshment of the cool water was a pleasant relief to her hot face, but unpleasant chills now replaced the waves of heat. She had felt rather strange after breakfast at Lambton this morning, but had shrugged it off as being due to the previous days' travel. Throughout the day, however, she had begun to feel increasingly worse, and it was with effort that she had concentrated on the tour of the house and the rambling of the housekeeper. Realizing that she could no longer ignore the signs of illness, Elizabeth stood and hastily left the shelter of the willow.
Where had her aunt and uncle gone? she thought, grimly realizing that her announcement would bring all the anticipated pleasure of the afternoon to an end. After a few steps, she was forced to stop in order to regain her sense of equilibrium. The great house of Pemberley shimmered almost nauseously in the sunlight, and the ground felt as if it would fall out from under her feet. After a few moments of laboured breathing, Elizabeth began to make her way more slowly to where she had last seen her aunt and uncle.
As she rounded a curve in the lake, she was arrested by a sight that astonished her. Mr. Darcy, the very master of the house, stood before her, dripping wet, wearing only his breeches, a very wet shirt, and an expression of astonishment that mirrored Elizabeth's.
"Miss Bennet!" he finally spluttered. Elizabeth's already flushed face could not disguise the colour of her embarrassment.
"Mr. Darcy, I ... this is indeed a surprise ... we had not expected ... how do you do" Elizabeth stopped as her head reeled. The sight of Mr. Darcy half-dressed and dripping wet, the humiliation of Mr. Darcy finding her on his grounds, and the sudden throbbing in her head were more than her composure could handle, and she realized that anything she said was likely to increase her humiliation.
"Miss Bennet, it is a pleasure to see you ... I suppose you are travelling in this part of the country?" Darcy attempted to collect himself against the suddenly violent beating of his heart. He looked woefully down at the shirt clinging to his chest. What must she think of me? I look a mess!
"Er, yes, I am travelling with my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, who reside in Cheapside in London," Elizabeth managed. There, that should bring the conversation to an end! Oh, my head!
"And how is your family? Your parents? Are they all in good health?" Darcy struggled to regain his composure, but the sight of Elizabeth at Pemberley ... Elizabeth at Pemberley ... impossible, and yet there she was...the same golden hair, the same slender figure, those eyes- her complexion does look unnaturally flushed...
"Yes, my family is well ... forgive me Mr. Darcy, I believe I must fetch my uncle ... I must go," Elizabeth took a step towards him, but the world seemed dangerously unsteady, and her head was pounding so! I must leave this place! I must find my uncle! I must go! she thought feverishly.
"Are you quite well, Miss Bennet? Pray, do come in for some refreshment ... Pray, you look very ill," Darcy said in some alarm as Elizabeth took a staggering step towards him.
"I must find my uncle..." Elizabeth said. The world was suddenly spinning, her head was pounding ... She looked up desperately at Mr. Darcy and could see his dark eyes looking at her in astonishment and concern, even as the world grew hazy around her.
"Mr. Darcy, I..." she managed before falling precipitously towards him. The next sensation she was sensible of was her head against his wet chest. She was vaguely aware that he was lifting her off her feet and carrying her. The wet shirt stuck to her cheek slightly, and she could feel the warmth of his skin beneath it. He's warm, she thought in some surprise before losing consciousness. I expected him to feel cold and stony, how silly of me...
Part II
Mrs. Gardiner paused in the dimness of the passageway before two tall oaken doors and sighed. How regrettable the changes the day had wrought! How she disliked having to inform the others, especially Mr. Darcy. How will he take it? she wondered. Well, there is no sense postponing the inevitable. She resolutely pushed open the door and stepped into the flood of late afternoon sunlight that was pouring through the huge west windows. Mr. Darcy stood with his back to her against the window, his tall, broad form creating a long dark shadow that stretched across the floor and up the wall of leather-bound books. Mrs. Gardiner glanced briefly around the large, handsome room that had evidently been the work of many generations. The high ceiling and walls lined with hundreds of books did not prevent the room from feeling comfortable and inviting: a perfect library. Lizzy would love this room, she thought with a faint smile. It even has a balcony. She shifted her gaze to look soberly at the man before her.
"Mr. Darcy." Darcy half turned towards her, a stern but unreadable expression on his face. "The apothecary believes it to be an infectious fever." Mrs. Gardiner spoke calmly, yet there was a note of firmness that did not escape Darcy's attention. "Apparently there has been an outbreak in Lambton, two cases of which have been fatal. These cases were both small children, however. Mr. Adams is optimistic that Lizzy's age and normally perfect health will prevent the infection from becoming too serious. That is, as long as she is not exposed to undue stress." Mrs. Gardiner paused briefly before adding, "Moving her would be disastrous."
Mr. Darcy's eyes widened slightly as he turned to face Mrs. Gardiner. "No, no, she shall certainly not be moved. That is unthinkable. You and Mr. Gardiner, of course, must remove here. I have already sent a servant to Lambton with your husband to collect your belongings. The apothecary from London should arrive tomorrow morning."
"I confess that is precisely what I have wished for," Mrs. Gardiner returned. After another short moment of silence, she added, "Mr. Darcy, your generosity in this instance, considering, from what I understand, your only slight acquaintance with my niece is truly magnanimous. Please...allow me to thank you on behalf of her and her family."
Mr. Darcy's face assumed a brooding expression, and he gestured impatiently. "Please do not thank me. Only tell me what must be done further to ensure her safe recovery. Nothing must be risked in this regard."
Mrs. Gardiner sighed before saying, "I believe she would be easier if Jane were here to nurse her. Elizabeth has called for her twice in her sleep. I think the sooner Jane is here the faster Elizabeth will recover."
"Please allow me to offer my services," Mr. Darcy said earnestly. "Miss Bennet is most welcome, of course."
"Thank you Mr. Darcy, but I believe it would be best if Mr. Gardiner went himself. He will bring Jane as far as London, and she will come the rest of the way by post-chaise. Upon Jane's arrival I will return to London, as I doubt my poor sister-in-law will be in a state to care for my children at Longbourn, especially without Jane."
"Your children are now at Longbourn?"
"Yes, they have been there since we left for Derbyshire. They will accompany my husband and Jane as far as London."
"I see." Mr. Darcy paused. "In that case, allow me to make arrangements for a carriage to bring Miss Bennet to Derbyshire and to return you to London." Mrs. Gardiner opened her mouth to dispute the necessity of this, but Mr. Darcy would not hear of it. "I insist. You must allow me this."
"Very well. I thank you again, Mr. Darcy. Now if you will excuse me, I will return to Elizabeth..." and with a small curtsey she left the room.
Darcy let out a sigh, walked to a small table and poured himself a glass of amber liquid. He then sank into his favourite armchair. It was positioned before the window, allowing him an excellent view of the vastness of his estate bathed in sunset. Darcy stared at the landscape in a trance, his mind repeating the scenes of earlier. Leaving London, the burning heat, the sweat of his horse, the cool refreshment of the pond, then walking unsuspecting around the tree--and there she was, like some sort of apparation ... .a beautiful apparition...
She spoke to him, what did she say? What did he say? He hardly knew, the shock of seeing her was so great, and then he was embarrassed at his appearance, hmh! half-dressed, sopping like a wet dog, and probably smelling like one too ... Truly, she had looked very flushed and somewhat agitated, but the situation wasn't exactly comfortable for either of them. When she had looked at him with that feverish look in her eyes, he knew something was amiss...then she was in his arms, he lifted her, and shouted orders, he wasn't sure about what, a doctor or Mrs. Reynolds, and he was carrying her towards Pemberley, and Elizabeth Bennet was in his arms ... Darcy ran a hand through his dark hair and exhaled slowly. He could not lose her. The sun slipped from the horizon and evening darkness descended on the view before him. He did not realize that he was sitting in almost complete darkness until a knock at the door roused him from his reverie.
"Come in," he called. A maid timidly entered.
"Excuse me, Mr. Darcy, sir, your dinner is waiting. Would you like Mrs. Reynolds to have it sent to your rooms?"
Darcy stood abruptly. "Yes that will be fine." The maid curtsied and left. Darcy stalked to the fireplace and leaned against it, his face a dark scowl. He had been dwelling on the turmoil of his emotions for too long. There were decisions to be made, things to be arranged. Tomorrow Georgiana and the Bingleys would descend on Pemberley. Bingley! Darcy smacked his hand to his forehead with a groan. Miss Bennet and Bingley under the same roof! Yet there was no avoiding the situation. Undoubtedly Bingley was still pining for Miss Bennet, and Darcy knew his previous arguments against their union would be futile in the face of so much persuasion. Then there was the idea of Caroline Bingley--Darcy gritted his teeth and turned his thoughts to his sister. How will Georgiana deal with the news? She will be all sympathy and concerned solicitude, Darcy smiled morosely as he answered his own question. Although finding a multitude of strangers in her home would take some adjustment.
His thoughts went to his earlier conversation with Mrs. Gardiner. When she had said, "Moving her would be disastrous," the fear of losing Elizabeth had stabbed him. The pain had been almost tangible. There was no avoiding the issue. Elizabeth must recover, or he never would. He knew it without a doubt. The death of his parents had been a blow, one that he still suffered from occasionally. But this was different. True, he hadn't expected to see Elizabeth again, but the point was he had seen her again, and she was here at Pemberley, at his home, even at this moment. And he loved her still. She must recover.
Part III
Jane calmly passed the muffins to Kitty. In spite of the fact that Lydia was in Scotland eloping with Wickham, Mrs. Bennet was in hysterics, and one of the Gardiner children had spilled strawberry jam on her white dress, Jane still retained her placid demeanour. Not even the new aria Mary had undertaken to learn at the moment Mrs. Bennet had gone into hysterics (the result had sounded like a shrieking match) had induced her to speak with impatience.
"Frederick, please do not poke Margaret with your fork. Margaret, sit up straight," Jane reprimanded gently. The Gardiner children were normally well-behaved, but the tension at Longbourn had caused them to be more fidgety than usual. Jane sighed as her thoughts went to Lizzy. I wonder what her reaction was, she thought for the hundredth time. I wonder why she has not written? I am sure there is a very good reason. They probably were in such a hurry to leave there simply wasn't time. Still, I wish she were here. It would be such a comfort!
Jane's thoughts went unbidden to a certain gentleman, and she wondered briefly what his reaction would be upon hearing the news of their disgrace. However, it was a subject much too painful to dwell on, and Jane knew her present state was not strong enough to support such musings. Since the departure of Charles Bingley from Netherfield, thoughts of him had hovered unceasingly at the back of her mind, but she had long determined that dwelling on him could only bring her pain, pain for which there was no comfort. No, I will not allow my own selfishness to intrude when I am so needed by my family, Jane scolded as a single tear threatened to spill from her dark eyes.
Surprised at her unusual display of emotion, Jane swiftly excused herself from the table and removed to the parlour. Her composure returned quickly, and she smiled at her own silliness. What would Lizzy say to you being so silly, she chided herself. Thoughts of her dear sister's witticisms and teasing laugh, and the prospect of being united soon immediately brightened her mood. She was preparing to re-enter the breakfast room almost cheerfully, when the sound of footsteps in the hall arrested her. She looked expectantly at the door, which when opened, revealed her father with a letter in hand.
"Jane, come at once to the library," he said briefly, and disappeared into the hall. Jane's heartbeat accelerated, thoughts of Lydia and Wickham filling her mind. At last we have news! Oh, I pray they are married, she thought as she followed her father into the library.
She found her father seated before the fire, gripping the letter, a stricken look on his face.
"Father, what is it? Are they not married?" Jane cried.
"No, no, Jane, it is not about Lydia. No, the letter comes from Mrs. Gardiner." Mr. Bennet paused and then turned to face his eldest. "Jane, you must hie to Pemberley at once."
"Pemberley?" Jane repeated in confusion. "Is not that the home of Mr. Darcy?"
"Yes, the very one. Mr. Gardiner will arrive today, and he will escort you as far as London, and Mr. Darcy the rest of the way, or so this letter informs me," Mr. Bennet quipped.
"But Father," Jane returned patiently, knowing that her quizzical father would eventually reveal the whole of it to her, "why does Mrs. Gardiner wish me to go to Pemberley?"
Instead of responding in a similarly evasive manner, as she expected, Mr. Bennet handed her the letter and turned his head away from her. Jane's eyes concernedly swept over the contents, and she gasped as she read,
... Lizzy has fallen ill with an infectious fever ... We are optimistic that it will not be too serious, but I feel it would be best if Jane would come immediately to attend her .... Mr. Darcy has been most generous in his invitation to allow us to remain here ... The sooner Jane can come the better...Yours affectionately,
M. Gardiner
Jane looked up white-faced at her father and said, "I must go."
"Yes, Jane, you must. Your mother will certainly be here when you return, and it will be very well for Kitty to learn some of your patience while she attends her."
"But my Aunt Gardiner says not a word about Lydia! Can it be that they have not received my letters?"
"I can only presume."
"And Mr. Darcy has invited them to remain at Pemberley!--I cannot imagine--"
Mr. Bennet sighed and reached for her hand. "I do not have any answers, Jane. It seems the only clear thing is that you are required at Pemberley, and I am required in London, and Longbourn will undoubtedly fall into complete chaos until we return."
"Oh, Father," Jane replied in a faltering voice.
Mr. Bennet smiled fondly and said, "We will miss you while you are gone, my dear. You must promise not to ride over a cliff in my carriage or run away with a highwayman in an attempt to out due your two sisters."
"Father, how can you say such things?" Jane replied with a smile to hide her tears. "You know very well I would never run away!"
"There, there, Jane," Mr. Bennet attempted to comfort his daughter, although Jane could perceive that he himself was more distraught by the news than he feigned. "It may seem as though Fate has taken a sudden dislike to the Bennet family, but I'm sure it will pass soon enough! Now, off with you, pack your things and be gone!" With that he opened his book and Jane understood she was dismissed.
Jane, the letter still in hand, walked quickly to her room, her mind awhirl with this most recent news. As she folded various items of clothing, she attempted to digest the information. Lizzy ill at Pemberley! It seemed too ludicrous to be possible. Lizzy forced to impose upon a man whom she disliked so, the very man who had proposed and been rejected! But how had it all happened? Jane stopped and sat upon the bed to pore over her aunt's letter more thoroughly. This time, her eyes were arrested by a name that could not fail to make her heart skip a beat. Her aunt explained briefly that Mr. Bingley and his sisters were at Pemberley, that they had arrived there the day after Lizzy had fallen ill, and would most likely be there when Jane arrived. Jane blushed, realizing that her aunt was most likely trying to prepare her for the inevitable meeting of herself and Mr. Bingley. I must school myself against him, Jane thought bravely to herself, ignoring the butterflies in her stomach . It is absolutely imperative that I appear indifferent.
With a start Jane realized that she had not yet informed her mother of the contents of the letter. Knowing that her response would be unpredictable, but undoubtedly ridiculous, Jane sighed and resolutely gathered herself to the task. As she calmly approached the door, she could already discern her mother's voice from within.
"Oh, my nerves! They are starting up again in my feet, and I know it will only be a matter of seconds before they meet the ones in my head! Oh, the flutterings! I'm sure I shall die, and then who will attend to Lydia's wedding clothes! Oh, Jane, there you are! Come comfort your poor mother!" Mrs. Bennet laid back dramatically on her divan and pressed a lacy handkerchief to her heart.
Jane closed the door behind her and approached the bed. She took a deep breath and said, "Mama, I am afraid I have some bad news. We have just received a letter from my aunt. Lizzy has fallen ill. She is now at Pemberley - Mr. Darcy's estate in Derbyshire. Aunt Gardiner writes that if I do not go to attend her ... it could be fatal..." Jane trailed off as Mrs. Bennet had grown completely still. Her eyes stared blankly at the wall. Jane looked concernedly at her mother, trying to prepare herself for the oncoming hysterics. She almost started when instead of wailing, she heard a giggled exclamation.
"O-oh, Lizzy, who would have thought..."
Mrs. Bennet sat up straight and grabbed Jane's wrist. "Jane, you must go at once! O-ho! Who would have thought Lizzy would be so clever? Of course she should refuse Mr. Collins when she has set her sights on Mr. Darcy, that sly thing! Ten thousand pounds a year, Jane, and very likely more!" Mrs. Bennet giggled and relaxed on her pillows. "Of course, your falling ill at Netherfield did not work out with Mr. Bingley, but Jane, be sure to take your yellow muslin, you are quite the beauty in it you know! for I am sure you will be thrown in the path of all kinds of rich men when you are there! Oh, imagine, Jane, Lizzy and Mr. Darcy! If she can catch him, of course. He is rather disagreeable and proud, but then what is that to ten thousand pounds a year!"
Jane closed her eyes and blushed, grateful that she and Hill were the only witnesses. She waited while her mother continued on in much the same manner, then excused herself to continue packing. As she closed the door gently, her mother cried, "Mind you take your white spring dress, too Jane! You must plan ahead if you are to get a rich husband!"
"Yes, mama," Jane replied gently.
Part IV
Jane gazed intently out the window of Mr. Darcy's carriage. She had been trying in vain to get a glimpse of Pemberley through the intermittent spaces in the foliage. Derbyshire was green and beautiful, but Jane was having difficulty appreciating it. Her anxiety over Lizzy was at the forefront of her mind; the thought of losing her sister and truest friend was unbearable; it made her shudder. Furthermore, the knowledge that she would soon came face to face with Charles Bingley after months of suffering from an aching heart was affecting her nerves to the point of sickness. Jane had never felt such opposing desires: one minute she was ready to run straight to Pemberley, and the next she wanted to run as far away from it as possible.
After what seemed an eternity the carriage entered the estate of Pemberley. The horses, knowing they were near home, increased their pace, and Jane was soon favoured with a view of the large house. The beauty of the estate, crowned with the imposing house caused Jane to forget her anxieties for a brief moment as she gazed at it in awe.
"Truly that is a beautiful sight," she murmured. Minutes later, the carriage, driven by one of Mr. Darcy's trusted servants, rounded the drive and stopped in a cloud of dust. The door was opened, and Jane stepped out onto the gravel, uncertain and apprehensive. The sight of Mrs. Gardiner's petite form hurrying towards her was a welcome sight indeed.
"Ah, Jane, here you are at last," Mrs. Gardiner cried, and embraced her niece reassuringly. "How was the journey? Are you quite well, Jane? You look pale."
"Yes, I am well, Aunt, only I have been anxious about Lizzy. How is she?" .
"I'm afraid she is much the same. The fever has not yet broken. But Lizzy has a strong will, and I know that now you are here she will begin to recover."
Jane was about to inquire further when she noticed the tall form of Mr. Darcy standing slightly in the distance. As she moved to acknowledge him, he stepped forward and bowed, his face as stern, handsome, and completely unreadable as ever Jane had remembered it.
"Miss Bennet."
"Mr. Darcy, thank you so much for the use of your carriage, and for allowing Lizzy to remain here."
"Miss Bennet, it was the least I could do; please do not let me detain you from hastening to your sister at once, as I am sure it will gratify the wishes of everyone. Mrs. Gardiner, I trust you can escort Jane to Elizabeth?"
"Yes, of course, Mr. Darcy. Shall we go, Jane?"
Mrs. Gardiner smiled, placed her arm through Jane's and led her up the stone steps and into the house. After what seemed to Jane a dizzying number of stairs and turns, Mrs. Gardiner stopped in front of one of the oaken doors and quietly pushed it open, then allowed Jane to pass by her into the darkened room. Jane walked quickly into the spacious chamber, and her eyes were immediately drawn to the large canopied bed. She hurried towards it, marvelling that Lizzy looked the size of a small child in comparison to the huge bed. She dropped to her knees beside it and smoothed back a golden strand of hair from her sister's pale brow.
"Jane ... is it you?" Lizzy's voiced whispered weakly.
"Yes, dearest, I have come to help you get better." Jane's voice trembled slightly, but Lizzy did not seem to notice. She reached up to caress Jane's hand with her own.
"I am so glad you're here, Jane. I haven't been able to get better because I've been so embarrassed! But I shan't care now that you are here..." Lizzy's voiced trailed off weakly. Although Jane smiled at Lizzy's attempt at humour, a tear did nevertheless fall from her eye and slide down her cheek. Thoughts of Mr. Bingley, Lydia, her mother, and anything else in the world excepting her dear sister were forgotten.
"Shhh, sleep now..." she whispered gently. Elizabeth meekly closed her eyes and slept, a look of peace permeating her features.
Jane stood and turned towards her aunt, who had been watching the scene with affection and some emotion.
"Do you think she will be alright?" Jane looked intently at her aunt.
"I believe she will now, Jane." Mrs. Gardiner smiled at her niece. "Come, let us get you settled while Elizabeth sleeps." Jane took one last look at Elizabeth's drawn face, and followed her aunt from the room.
Georgiana had been sitting in the conservatory for a little over an hour with Mrs. Annesley and Mrs. Hurst. Miss Bingley was there also, but could not be induced to sit for longer than a few seconds at a time. Georgiana watched as Miss Bingley walked elegantly and turned abruptly again to face them. Everything she does is elegant, Georgiana thought furtively, elegant and disdainful.
"It is absolutely insufferable, Louisa. I am simply shocked at their ill-breeding! To see Pemberley polluted so!"
"And very unoriginal, too!" Mrs. Hurst concurred with what seemed to Georgiana very like a sneer.
"Isn't it, though! You would think the illustrious Mrs. Bennet would try something new this time." Mrs. Hurst offered a disdainful laugh, but Miss Bingley did not join her. Georgiana watched as Miss Bingley's countenance grew increasingly angry. She was accustomed to the sisters disparaging anyone they felt was below them, but the conversation had been particularly vicious this afternoon. Georgiana doubted her brother would approve. Certainly she felt uncomfortable, and tried to divert the conversation whenever she could summon the courage. Miss Bingley turned suddenly and smiled at Georgiana.
"My dear Georgiana, I hope we have not concerned you too much. I know it is rather shocking when one first becomes acquainted with the ways of the world. I am sure your dear brother has kept you sheltered as much as he could." Miss Bingley cocked her head slightly, smiling again in the condescending way Georgiana hated. "However, as much as he wishes to protect you from this kind of vulgarity, he must realize that until he is married he will be continually thwarted in his attempts, because he is precisely the sort of man upon whom penniless women constantly throw themselves."
"Very true, Caroline," Mrs. Hurst added. "Poor Mr. Darcy must be at his wits' end! I do pity him. And you know, Caroline, I would not doubt that if Mr. Darcy had a moment's peace, he might very well find a wife in his own station with whom to settle down."
"I agree with you completely, Louisa. I can only ask myself if there is anything we could do to help Mr. Darcy in this regard."
Georgiana had begun to grow alarmed at the turn of the conversation, and so rallied herself to say that she wished to take a short walk in the park before tea.
"Perhaps we will chance upon my brother and Mr. Bingley as they return from fishing," she suggested timidly.
"Excellent idea," Caroline concurred at once. "I have grown quite restless here, and a walk would do me a world of good. Shall you join us, Louisa?"
"Yes, I think I shall. I wonder if the gentlemen have had any luck this afternoon."
Georgiana breathed in relief. As she placed her bonnet on her dark head and tied the ribbons, her thoughts went to her brother. She had not yet had a chance to speak to him alone since her arrival at Pemberley. She had so many questions, and she knew he would have the answers she needed; he always did. She smiled at the fact that he was finally home, and that she was bound to enjoy his company alone sooner or later. He was such a dear brother! She trusted him implicitly; indeed, there was something in his affection that made her feel completely safe, even in the company of those she did not trust, such as Miss Bingley. Although he has seemed oddly different since I got home, she thought with a slight frown. Almost...absent-minded. And then at other he is so dark and brooding. I hope things are not as Miss Bingley says. I know he always talked well of Miss Bennet. Georgiana sighed and added yet another question to her list.
"Georgiana, are you coming?" Mrs. Annesley called.
"Yes, I am here," Georgiana said. She joined the small group moments later, and they moved together toward the woods.
After having settled in a room across from Elizabeth's, Jane had refreshed herself, and then gone straight to Elizabeth. She found her sister in a fitful sleep, her forehead hot with fever, and half the blankets thrown from the bed. Mrs. Gardiner had gone to sleep for a few moments, as she had been watching over Elizabeth for the past few days with little respite. Jane worked quickly and deftly about the sickroom. Her compassionate nature found its strength in caring for her loved ones, and Jane was conscious of only her sister and her needs. It was not until many hours later that Jane looked at the time and realized she had not eaten since breakfast. She picked up a tray with a pitcher of water and some soiled cloths, took a quick look at Lizzy, and left the room.
Jane walked quickly through the passage, tired and worried. In spite of Mrs. Gardiner's hopes, Elizabeth was growing more fitful, and her fever raged unabated. Jane decided it was necessary to talk to Mr. Darcy about having the apothecary come as soon as possible.
A chance passing by a hall mirror revealed that she was certainly not fit to be seen by anyone. A worried look was spread over her features, her dark hair was dishevelled, and her white dress was wrinkled. Jane dismissed her appearance from her mind. Mr. Darcy shan't care about my appearance; I only hope I will be able to find him. Jane approached the corner of the hallway, praying she was not lost. As she rounded the corner, she came face to face with Mr. Bingley.
"Oh!" she cried with a start, dropping the tray. To her embarrassment and dismay the water spread rapidly over an expensive carpet. She dropped to the floor in confusion and began to gather the scattered items.
"Miss Bennet!" she heard him say, and was aware that he had bent down to help her.
"Mr. Bingley," Jane replied in as normal a voice as she could muster. She could not look at him, and thus did not see his handsome features a mixture of embarrassment and delight.
"I beg your pardon, Miss Bennet, I did not mean to startle you," he said gently as they stood.
"Please do not trouble yourself, Mr. Bingley. I was not paying attention." Jane coloured and lowered her eyes.
"And ... how do you do?" Mr. Bingley questioned.
"I am very well, thank you."
"And how are your sisters? Are the rest still at Longbourn?" he questioned, although he was feeling quite distracted at seeing Jane looking even more beautiful than he remembered.
"Yes, they are...Oh, that is, except for Lydia ... she is, ah, she ... had gone to Brighton." Jane stopped abruptly and blushed. Good gracious! I have forgotten about her completely!
Mr. Bingley smiled briefly at her confusion, and asked lightly, "How is Elizabeth?"
"I am afraid she is not much better. I am this very minute in search of Mr. Darcy in order to have him fetch the apothecary."
"In that case, let me escort you to the library. I just left him there, and it is far too easy to get lost in this maze of a house." He took the tray from her, and asked, "Have you eaten, Miss Bennet?" Jane was surprised by the earnestness of his question.
"No," she responded shyly.
"I shall have some refreshments sent to your rooms."
"Thank you, Mr. Bingley, you are most kind."
Mr. Bingley could not help glancing at her several times out of the corner of his eye as he escorted her to the library. How good it feels to take care of her! he thought as his heart swelled in ecstasy. The desire to take her in his arms and comfort her was strong, and he was relieved when they approached the library. Mr. Bingley smiled reassuringly at Jane, and could not resist the urge to stand so that when she passed by him into the library, her dark curls nearly brushed his nose. The sweetness of her perfume in such close proximity to himself caused his heart to accelerate. He took a deep breath and closed the door behind him, leaving Jane alone with Mr. Darcy.
Jane's interview with Mr. Darcy was brief. As she entered the library, she saw him standing in much the same position she had been used to seeing him in Hertfordshire, in front of the window with his hands behind his back. He turned as she approached.
"Miss Bennet, how is she?" he said with concern.
"I am afraid she is still suffering from a high fever, Mr. Darcy. I have come to ask you if an apothecary could be fetched."
He nodded sternly. "I shall have Mr. Adams sent for immediately."
"Thank you, Mr. Darcy."
"Is there anything you are in need of, yourself, Miss Bennet? Are your rooms comfortable? Have you had something to eat?"
"Yes, I thank you, the room is very comfortable, and Mr. Bingley has gone just now to have some refreshments sent up."
A look of something- Jane was not sure what exactly- gleamed momentarily in his eyes, then he looked at her intently and said, "Is there anything else you require?"
"We are very well taken care of, Mr. Darcy. Thank you once again for all your kindness."
Mr. Darcy was silent a moment, and then replied, "I shall have Adams here as soon as possible."
Jane curtsied and left the room. She walked quickly, praying that she would not see Mr. Bingley again. Her composure she held under sufficient control, but she needed time alone to understand her own heart, and then to steel it against further attacks. I must remain indifferent. We shall be friends and nothing more. Jane pushed thoughts of Mr. Bingley aside upon remembering that she had yet to tell her aunt about Lydia. How is it that I have forgotten so completely about my own sister? she thought grimly. I hope my aunt will forgive me.
Meanwhile Mr. Darcy sat pondering in the library. He could already imagine the look that would remain on Bingley's face for the remainder of his stay. He knew without a doubt Bingley was already madly in love with the eldest Miss Bennet--there was no possibility of his being under the same roof with her and resisting her. Darcy frowned at the image it conjured. Although Elizabeth had revealed a little more of Jane's side of the story, he still could not bring himself to approve of a union between Miss Bennet and Bingley. Bingley might love her- but he could love another just as easily; therefore, why not someone of his own station? Darcy felt more than a twinge of guilt in his disapproval of Miss Bennet, especially considering that he was currently doing everything in his power to secure the affections of her sister. Why should it be wrong for Bingley and yet right for me? he asked himself. Our dispositions are different- Bingley could be happy with a woman other than Jane, and so should fulfill his social obligations. I will never give my affections to another woman - my chance for happiness resides with Elizabeth. Darcy had been through it many times before, and although he could reasonably justify all his arguments, his conscience continued to bother him.
Darcy's reverie was interrupted by a quiet knock on the door and the subsequent appearance of Georgiana.
"May I come in?" she asked. He held out his hand to her and smiled, whereupon she proceeded to be enfolded in his arms. Georgiana savoured the warmth and safety emanating from her brother.
"I have been waiting to speak with you since we returned!" she murmured.
"What's wrong, Georgiana?" He lifted her face gently, his dark eyes searching.
"Oh, it's nothing really," Georgiana responded quickly, lowering her eyelashes. "Only that Pemberley is so different now that the Miss Bennet's are here ... and everyone has a different opinion on everything. I, well, I just want to know what your opinions are so that I may know what to think." Darcy's gaze darkened.
"What has Miss Bingley been telling you?" he demanded. Georgiana looked up anxiously.
"Please don't be angry, Fitzwilliam. She only said that most women, including the Bennet's, will go to any length to obtain a rich husband. That Miss Elizabeth Bennet is not really ill, she is just trying to secure you." Georgiana looked at him apologetically. How ridiculous it sounded now that she was with him!
"I see ... I am glad you came to discuss it with me." Darcy paused. "First of all, I want you to understand that I have the highest opinion of the two eldest Miss Bennet's, and secondly, that I carried Miss Bennet into the house myself- I can attest to her fever being quite real. Trust me, she is the last person in the world who would pretend to sickness in order to secure my hand in marriage." Darcy tried to refrain from speaking with a note bitterness, but knew he had not quite succeeded. In order to mask it, he smiled and asked his sister about her music. They continued in insignificant, yet pleasantly intimate conversation until the hour for dinner approached, and Georgiana left to change.
Part V
Elizabeth lay in darkness in the huge canopied bed, trying to remember where she was. She had awoken a few minutes earlier from a fitful sleep. The fever still raged in her body, and she fancied that if she concentrated, she could almost separate herself from it and watch it from above the canopied bed. Where is Jane? she thought feverishly. I miss her. I wish she would come. Lizzy noticed a small sliver of light coming from the room adjacent to hers. She thought she heard Jane's voice. Why is Jane not coming to me? I will scold her when she comes back. Lizzy realized that if she lay very still she could make out what the voices were saying.
"... do you mean to tell me that Lydia is now in London with Mr. Wickham?"
"... it is believed they are in London, and it is hoped that they are married, but when I left Longbourn nothing further had been heard of their whereabouts."
"They must be in London. Where else could they be so well concealed?"
"My father was leaving for London--he is almost certain they are there...I do hope he finds them married. I cannot believe Lydia would run off with Wickham if she was not sure of his intentions!"
"Oh, Jane! I am afraid I do not share your confidence. What could possibly induce Mr. Wickham to marry a penniless girl with no connections? Thoughtless Lydia!..."
Lizzy sat up in her bed, stunned. Lydia?! had run away with Mr. Wickham ... Her thoughts whirled...This is my fault! Why did I not tell? I am going to fix this ... Lizzy feverishly threw back the covers and shivered in her thin night-dress. If I leave now, I can make it to London in a few hours, then I shall make them marry ... Lizzy stumbled to the door of her room, and made her way down the hall. Where am I? she wondered briefly. It doesn't matter, I just have to make it to London: I will make Wickham marry her! Lizzy leaned heavily against a wall as blackness filled her head. After a moment her surroundings came back into focus, and she continued.
Darcy walked deliberately through the vaulted main hall, mulling over his conversation with Georgiana. He was angry at Miss Bingley's lack of propriety. He had been aware of her jealousy when he had paid Elizabeth too much attention at Netherfield, but that it should now drive her to such ill-bred behaviour, especially in the company of Georgiana, surprised and infuriated him. He wondered at her lack of perception. How could she not see that every attempt she made to secure his affections had the opposite effect? In comparison to Elizabeth... Darcy smiled wryly. There was simply no comparison to be made. Where Elizabeth had attempted to affront him, she had attracted him at every turn. Miss Bingley might be handsome and rich, but Elizabeth was...everything a man could want in a woman. He had long since stopped trying to pinpoint the irresistible attraction she held for him. Certainly he had often found her physically distracting, but there was something more that had captured him...her mind, her spirit...
Darcy winced again at the memory of her refusal. "... had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner..." But there is reason to hope, he told himself. If I can show her, while she is here, that I have changed. Darcy gritted his teeth in frustration. Knowing that she was in his house, suffering, and yet completely removed from him was torturous. If I could just see her...
Darcy sighed as he reached the bottom of the main staircase. He looked up to ascend, and stopped short, his jaw dropping in shock. Elizabeth was standing at the top in naught but a night-dress, her long blonde tresses billowing around her shoulders. It's an illusion, Darcy told himself. My desire is causing me to hallucinate. However, when Elizabeth mumbled to herself, and took a stumbling step, he was convinced of her reality. Darcy leapt up the stairs, his heart skipping a beat lest she should fall.
"Elizabeth," he cried, stopping a step below her. His senses reeled. Elizabeth looked at him, but did not seem to register his presence.
"I must get to London," she mumbled feverishly.
"London?" Darcy repeated in confusion.
"Yes, I've got to make them marry!" Elizabeth closed her eyes and swayed dangerously toward him. Darcy placed his hands protectively on her slender arms.
"Who?" he demanded.
Elizabeth pushed weakly at his chest, and cried feverishly, "Lydia and Wickham! I will make them marry!" She took a frantic step, and Darcy, fearing that she might fall, strengthened his hold on her. She struggled to be free of his grip, her eyes glittering.
"Let me go!" she cried, pushing frantically at him. "I'm going to London!" Darcy, knowing that Elizabeth was delirious, felt at a loss as to what he should do as she flayed against him. His experience had not yet included dealing with half-delirious women. In desperation, he lighted upon the thought that he had dealt with high-strung horses.
"Elizabeth," he said firmly in a voice he usually reserved for his thorough-bred horse, Rockwell. To his surprise and consternation, she relaxed against him and laid her head on his shoulder. Her forehead felt hot against his neck, and her breathing was laboured. She shivered, and Darcy instinctively wrapped his arms around her. Knowing he would have to carry her back to her room, he closed his eyes in an attempt to steel himself against the warmth of her skin under his fingertips, then lifted her and walked resolutely.
Upon entering her room, he was relieved to find it vacated. He only hoped it would remain thus until he could safely remove himself. However, to his chagrin, as he gently laid her in the bed, Elizabeth whimpered and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck. Caught by surprise, he was forced to brace his arms on the bed to keep from falling on her. Darcy caught his breath as he found his face an inch above the smooth skin of her neck. Any attempt he made to extricate himself only made her tighten her hold, until Darcy realized with a desperate resolution that he had better remove himself, no matter the cost. He pried Elizabeth's arms from his neck, at which she whimpered again and rolled onto her side. After covering her with a blanket, he turned on his heels and fairly ran from the room.
Miss Bingley had been looking for Mr. Darcy since teatime. Upon hearing his footsteps echoing in the hall, she immediately exited the parlour and stationed herself elegantly where he could not miss her.
"Ah, Mr. Darcy, there you are," she called gaily. She paled as he walked past her without a word. She watched his imposing figure stride away from her, noting the stricken look on his face. She was not accustomed to being ignored, nor did she like it. Miss Bingley's eyes narrowed, as her thoughts flew to a certain young lady who was at that moment sleeping peacefully in one of Pemberley's exalted chambers. I have had enough. It is time something was done to purge Pemberley of this disgrace.