Section I, Next Section
Prologue Posted on Monday, 13 November 2006
The rain started just after their return trip. Dark gray storm clouds blocked the sun completely while the wind and rain beat against the carriage. So far, the roads were still good, but the gentleman was anxious to get to the next stop to take shelter at the Inn until the storm abated.
"Fanny, I wish you had been willing to stay at you brother's at least until better weather had come especially in your condition."
"Nonsense, Richard. I want to be home when the baby is born. Even so, if this storm does not desist, we can stop at the next inn since it is not too far off."
"Still, I would have felt more at ease with you staying at your brother's rather than an inn along the road home."
Twenty-year-old Francis Gardiner Bennet turned to look at her husband of a little over a year and smiled. Taking his arm, she leaned against him as best she could, with her head on his shoulder.
"I know, my love, and I know how much this whole trip has worried you since I should be in confinement, but I really appreciated attending Mama's funeral. Thank you." She had tears in her eyes for the two very different emotions she felt. Her mother's untimely death had devastated her as she had been extremely close with her. They had been best friends besides being mother and daughter. However, her pain was tempered with the love she felt for her Richard. It had been love at first sight and everything had been wonderful since, with the exception of the occasional arguments that most couples have.
"Oh, Fanny. You know how much I love you and how I would do anything to make you happy. I am glad you were able to be at your mother's funeral. She was a kind, generous, and intelligent woman. I worry about you and the baby though. I fear that all this activity will some how cause harm to you both. I will be glad to arrive home and you had better keep your promise and go into the rest of your confinement without complaint." Richard smiled at his wife with a slight mischievous glint replacing the worry at the last.
Fanny laughed, "I will keep my word, but I will be grateful to be able to go out for our walks again after the birth."
"As will I."
They fell into a companionable and loving silence. For the next while, they each enjoyed each other's quite company while listening to the howling wind and pounding rain. The occasional thunder clap would make Fanny jump, but it could not disturb her happiness at going home with her husband and the baby she carried.
However, at one point Richard Bennet was awoken from his dozing by a moan coming from Fanny. Opening his eyes fully, he immediately turned to his wife only to see her eyes clenched shut and her hands holding her round stomach.
"Fanny, what is wrong?"
"It is the baby. I . . . I think . . . it has decided it wants to meet its parents."
"What?! . . . Now?!"
"Yes! Now!" She managed to glance at her husband to see how worried he was as well as his surprise and hurt at being snapped at. "I am sorry I snapped, though you should prepare yourself for more as I have a feeling I will be rather . . . short tempered."
"Oh, I most certainly will keep it in mind, but right now I must get us to the nearest doctor or midwife."
"That would help."
"See. I told you, you would pick up my sense of humour."
Resisting the urge to roll her eyes, "Never mind the humour . . . only tell the driver to get us to the nearest inn and then locate the midwife."
"Of course."
It did not take long to reach the Rose Garden Inn after Mr. Bennet had ordered the driver to hurry. Mr. Bennet, the driver and the innkeeper, a Mr. Stevens, all helped Mrs. Bennet into the building and into a room. Mrs. Stevens, the proprietor's wife came immediately to help her as her husband sent someone for the midwife as no doctors resided nearby.
Mrs. Bennet was resting comfortable between contractions while her husband remained next to her even though he had been scolded and advised to leave by the Mrs. Stevens when the midwife, a Mrs. Smith, arrived with her twelve-year-old step-daughter. She was more successful in forcing Mr. Bennet to leave. From there on, there was nothing else for Richard Bennet to do but wait.
At the same time, a handsome coach was coming from the opposite direction. The occupants found themselves more comfortable than the Bennets even with the storm. Yet, they were experiencing a similar set of events. They, too, were returning from a funeral under the same circumstances.
"Elizabeth, are you alright?"
"Edmund, I am fine. You have asked me that ten times since we left."
"I know, dearest, but I am so worried especially since the weather has turned for the worse. We should never have gone while you are in this condition. We should have kept you in confinement. Beth, you know how much trouble we have had."
"I know, darling, but I had to go to my sister's funeral. You know how close we were."
"Indeed. I am sorry. I am apprehensive. I do not know what I would do if we lost another child." Tears were in his eyes and he could see tears welling up in his wife's eyes as well.
"I understand completely. I do not know if I could handle another loss either."
As with the Bennets, this couple dozed as well attempting to ignore the thunder and howling wind and rain. The gentleman was similarly awakened by his wife's moans.
"Elizabeth? Elizabeth, what is it? Is it the baby?"
His wife could only nod as she held her stomach and moaned again in pain. It was all the answer her husband needed to push him into action telling the driver to hurry to the nearest stopping point and to find a doctor or midwife immediately.
Reaching the closest inn, the Rose Garden, the driver went into find directions. When he discovered that she was already there attending another woman, he informed his employer who made arrangements for his wife to have the room next to the other lady so that the midwife could attend both. Mrs. Smith, the midwife summarily told him to leave the room after he finished helping his Elizabeth into the room.
Standing in the hall staring at the door to his wife's room, the gentleman turned as Mr. Stevens addressed him.
"Sir, if you will follow me, I will take you to an area where you can wait."
"Thank you, but I prefer to stay here."
The innkeeper smiled, "That may be all well and all, but as soon as Mrs. Smith sees you out here she will insist on you leaving the hall as well. Also, it may be a while, so it might be easier to wait where you can at least sit down."
The gentleman thought about it and nodded. He knew he would be no good to his wife standing here. "Alright."
"It is a small private dining area this way."
The innkeeper left him at the door to continue with his business, so when the gentleman opened the door he was surprised to see another gentleman.
"I am sorry to disturb you sir, but this is where I was told to wait."
"No apologies are necessary. Mrs. Stevens informed me that another gentleman would probably be joining me here as they are having a particularly busy day due to the storm. I, too, was brought here to wait. Mrs. Smith can be rather forceful when she wants someone to leave."
The gentleman looked up at Mr. Bennet, "So, it is your wife who also waits for the midwife. We were told when we arrived that the midwife was already here attending another lady."
"Yes. We were travelling and hoped to be settled at home before needing the midwife. My mother-in-law passed away and my wife was very close to her."
"It is the same for my wife and I. She wanted to be at her dear sister's funeral so much I simply could not say no. We had also hoped to be home as well."
Both fell silent and stood as they heard footsteps pass in the hall. When the door did not open, they looked back at each other as each took a seat. After silence had crept over the room and remained for a time, the gentleman started a small conversation.
Two hours passed as the two went from conversation on the local land, to business to more personal information.
After finishing a discussion on ___________, Mr. Bennet paused as if deliberating on something which was noticed by his companion.
"Is there something bothering you?"
"Actually, yes. I know this is a rather personal question, but do you have any other children?"
The gentleman smiled as he guessed what the younger man wanted to know. "Yes, I have one son who is nine years old. Am I correct in assuming that this will be your first child?
Mr. Bennet blushed slightly as he nodded.
"I thought as much. If you have a question, I will answer what I am able. I know I wished I had someone when Charles was born."
"Umm . . . How long can this take? I mean . . ."
Holding up his hands, the gentleman answered, "I understand what you mean. I am not sure. It was right about four hours before Charles was born."
"It has only been about two." Sighing, Mr. Bennet continued, "I am sorry for prying. I am simply nervous about this and I have no doubt put upon your time with my constant chatter."
"To be honest, your conversation has prevented me from worrying too much. You see, we . . . this is our fifth child. Twice were miscarriages early on. The last child, our daughter was stillborn. I worry for both Elizabeth, my wife who I nearly lost with the last one as well, and our child. I do not care if it is a boy or a girl as long as it lives. I do not know what I would do if we lost another child. I doubt my wife will react well if something should happen." As he said all this, tears had begun to flow down his cheeks as the fear of what might be overwhelmed him. He would normally be embarrassed to cry in front of another, but right at the moment, it did not matter if what he feared came about.
"I am sorry for your loss and sincerely hope that all will be well this time." Mr. Bennet remained at a loss as to what else to say.
"Thank you for your kindness. I hope today will be a day of joy for us both."
From there on, they settled back into waiting.
Meanwhile, the midwife, Mrs. Smith and her twelve year old step-daughter were kept busy going between the two rooms. Mrs. Stevens was busy finding and providing supplies to her. During the two hours, she learned the identity of her first charge. If Mrs. Bennet bore a son, it would deprive Mrs. Smith's nephew of the Longbourn estate he would inherit on entailment. Although she did not wish harm to the Bennets, she sincerely hoped that this child would be a daughter. Mrs. Smith had also learned of the tragic past of the other lady. She hoped that they would not have to suffer another tragedy.
However, her hopes were in vain as two and one-half hours after the start, the second lady bore her stillborn son. As the lady passed out from the strain and difficulty she had faced, Mrs. Smith was called to Mrs. Bennet's room by her step-daughter.
Entering the room, she immediately went to work and sent the girl to gather more supplies. Only a few short while passed before the baby, a son was born. As Mrs. Bennet slept in her exhaustion, the midwife thought about what this meant.
My nephew has lost his inheritance to this infant. This will make things very difficult for my sister's son. Also, that poor woman next door. She is not likely to have more considering all the difficulties she has had and I doubt she will want to risk losing another.
Suddenly, a thought struck her. Something that might help her nephew and the lady at the same time.
It is risky, but the woman could then be spared more pain with one last child that she has held so much hope for. My nephew may gain his inheritance if the Bennets have no more sons. No. It is not fair to them or any daughters they might have. Surely though, Mrs. Bennet is young yet. She could still produce an heir. Even if she did not, surely my nephew would not displace the poor girls or their mother should Mr. Bennet die.
She looked around. If I am to do this, I must act quickly; my step-daughter will be back soon. With that she bundled up the heir of Longbourn, and carried him to the door and opened it quietly. Glancing down each end of the hall, she moved quickly into the next room. She was pleased to see the woman still asleep. Laying the one child down, she took the stillborn child and carried him in the same manner as she had the other before. Once in Mrs. Bennet's room, she laid him in the same spot from which she took the Bennet child.
Calming herself with several deep breaths she turned toward the door as it burst open to reveal her step-daughter.
"I am sorry, Mama. When I went to get these, one of the boys working here ran into me while carrying some stew and I dropped them and he spilled the stew as I spilled the rest of the hot water. Mrs. Stevens hurried to find me more while I got more hot water. I truly did not mean to take so long." The girl said all this barely stopping for breath throughout her speech.
"That is alright my dear. I made do with what I had, but I do need them now." As she moved toward the supplies that had been set on a chair, her step-daughter noticed her shaking hands.
"Mama, what is wrong? Are you ill? Your hands are shaking so badly."
"It is nothing my dear. It . . . It is only that . . . the second child, right over there, was stillborn."
The girl looked over from the lifeless infant to the woman on the bed as tears filled her eyes, "Oh, the poor woman."
Mrs. Smith looked away. "Indeed. Now I need your help. You know what I need you to do."
With that, they worked on everything else that needed doing. When they were done, Mrs. Smith decided to inform the gentlemen it was time to see their wives. She told her step-daughter she would send the first gentleman to see his wife and son and that she was to stand in the hall and direct him to the correct door. Mrs. Smith would accompany the other gentleman to his wife as she had to inform him of the tragic news.
As she reached the door of the waiting room the men were in, she took a deep breath and knocked and entered.
"I am sorry to interrupt, but I thought you sir would like to know you have a son." She had directed her gaze at the second gentleman who smiled brilliantly. Before he could reply, she continued, "If you go down the corridor you will see my step-daughter there and she will direct you to the correct room."
"Thank you," he hurried out so eager he was to see his wife and son.
While happy for the other gentleman, Mr. Bennet was anxious for news of Fanny.
"Any news of my wife, madam?"
"I am sorry to tell you sir that your son was stillborn."
Mr. Bennet swallowed hard at the pain he felt but pushed it aside as he worried for his wife.
"Fanny?"
She is resting. I think it would be best if you were with her when I break the news to her."
Mr. Bennet nodded and followed her out as relief for his wife mixed with the pain and sadness at the loss of his son. He did not relish seeing Fanny's face contract with pain as the happiness she had been feeling at the hope of their child transformed into loss and sorrow.
Mrs. Smith leaned against the wall outside the Bennets room. She had nearly confessed all when she witnessed the pain crossing both faces and the anguished cry that escaped Mrs. Bennet. Still, she did not reveal the truth and comforted herself with the thoughts that Mrs. Bennet may yet have another son and that the other family was spared another tragedy.
The next morning dawned clear and calm. The storm had passed, but the two families within the inn did not leave immediately.
The next couple of days passed with great joy for one couple and pain and sorrow for the other. Both were told that if they travelled carefully and slowly, they should be able to travel home the next day as both ladies had recovered well enough though they remained tired. They were told to take frequent stops including staying at inns if necessary depending on how far they had to travel.
So, the afternoon before leaving, Mr. Bennet found himself eating in a corner of the common area while his wife rested. He took only a small meal as he felt little hunger.
"Sir, you look like something terrible has happened." Mr. Bennet looked up to see the face of the gentleman he had meet his first day there.
"Indeed sir. I now know how you must have felt with three of your children." Mr. Bennet said as he was barely able to speak of it.
The gentleman closed his eyes in sympathy. Opening them he said, "Please accept my and my wife's deepest regrets for you loss."
"Thank you . . . and may I congratulate you on your new son."
"Thank you. May I join you?"
Mr. Bennet was a little surprised especially by the most serious look on the man's face, "Certainly."
After seating himself, the gentleman remained silent as if thinking over what he wanted to say, "Sir, I would like to name my son after you. You are a fine gentleman and it will be in memory of your son."
Seeing the sincerity in the man's eyes and knowing his sympathy was real, Mr. Bennet could not refuse such a kind offer. "I am honoured, sir, that you would ask to do so. I would be pleased and honoured."
"Thank you. Even though we have spent so much time conversing, we have yet to learn each others name."
"Yes, that would help now, would it not? My name is Richard Bennet."
"Hmmm. Richard. I think that will be an excellent name for my son. I am Edmund Fitzwilliam, the Earl of Matlock."
Chapter 1 Posted on Monday, 20 November 2006
Edmund Fitzwilliam sat at his desk in his study staring at a letter which he had received an hour earlier. The information contained therein was a simple request to see him. However, he developed a feeling of dread which continued to deepen with each reading. It came from a Mrs. Roland who wrote on behalf of her step-mother, Mrs. Smith. In her letter, she requested that he come as soon as possible because her mother wishes to relate some information; a confession, she wishes to make to him involving his family and himself. She explained that her step-mother was midwife who attended his wife when his second son was born. Mrs. Roland made it clear that it was imperative that he come soon as Mrs. Smith was ill.
Edmund felt a need to learn what this Mrs. Smith had to say even if he thought he would not like to hear it. Finally coming to a decision, he got up and called for a servant. "Turner, will you have the carriage readied and please inform my wife when she returns that I left on a matter of urgent business."
"Yes, sir."
Soon, the Earl of Matlock found himself on the road to Cheapside. Apparently, Mrs. Smith had found it necessary to move to London to live with her step-daughter when she became ill. Mrs. Roland implied that her mother had grown increasingly ill in recent days, so much so that she did not have much strength. It was not long before he arrived and he was admitted immediately.
A familiar looking woman, either in her late thirties or early forties came into the small parlour to greet him, "Lord Fitzwilliam?"
"Yes."
"I am Mrs. Roland. Thank you for coming so quickly. I must ask you to come to my husband's study as that is where my mother likes to stay during the day and as she has so little strength, she cannot come here and I have no one to help move her."
"Certainly, madam."
He followed her into the study which also acted as a library based on all the books on the shelves. There he saw a frail, older woman sitting in a chair who looking pensive. Mrs. Smith's pale and drawn face was lined as if the stress of past years was too much for her. Her eyes were intelligent, but pained by emotion.
"Mrs. Smith," he addressed her as he gave a slight bow.
She inclined her head as she replied, "Lord Fitzwilliam." Her voice rasped more with emotion than age or illness.
"Your daughter's letter said you had something to tell me."
Swallowing and blinking, Mrs. Smith met his eyes. Her voice was clearer with this attempt. "I see you are straight to the point. It is a confession . . . although now I am finding it difficult as to where to begin. Please take a seat as this will take a while.
As Lord Fitzwilliam took a seat in the chair facing the lady, he noticed her growing agitation. Her hands which had before only trembled, now began shaking more severely. Her step-daughter seated herself next to her and held her hands.
"Twenty-eight years ago you and your wife stopped at an inn in need of a midwife. At the same time another couple were already there with the same need. That couple was Mr. and Mrs. Bennet of Longbourn in Hertfordshire. I recognized the name because my sister had married their cousin, a Mr. Collins. I struck up a conversation and determined that they were indeed the cousins to my sister. As her husband had passed away, her son, my nephew, was in line to inherit the Bennet estate of Longbourn through an entailment."
Edmund Fitzwilliam closed his eyes as he felt the knot in his stomach tighten painfully. He was not unintelligent and could see exactly where this was going to go. Yet, he was unwilling to admit it.
"I feared the Bennets having a son more for the sake of my sister, as we were quite close, than for my nephew. My sister loved her son very much and I could not bear to see her hurt. Also, your wife told me of the terrible losses you and she suffered when she voiced her concerns on the child during the birth. It was these two pieces of information that gave me the idea to switch the children later.
By the time Mrs. Bennet delivered a strong and healthy son, I already knew your son was stillborn. From there on, I convinced myself with the two reasons I already mentioned as well as others to switch the children. I felt for your situation and comforted myself with the thoughts that the Bennets were young and could have more children."
The Earl of Matlock pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes before responding in a choked voice, "You mean to tell me that the child I raised, the boy I loved, is not my son at all. You mean that my son, Richard, is actually Mr. Bennet's son?"
"Yes. I know and I knew even then that I should not have done it. It has tormented me for the past twenty-eight years. My nights have been filled with dreams of that day. I have prayed about it almost every day since and have felt that the only way I could find peace from my guilt was to confess to you and the Bennets what I had done. It has become even more necessary in light of what I learned about the Bennets and my own nephew. Please forgive me my interference."
"And what exactly have you learned?"
"First, my great nephew, my sister's grandson will inherit the Bennet estate. I must admit my error in my estimation of my nephew. His attitude, especially toward the Bennets, was not . . . the best. He broke with them only a couple of years after my interference and I fear how his son will treat them should Mr. Bennet die particularly if he is anything like his father. This is even more disturbing as I learned that the Bennets have five daughters and no more sons. If I had not switched them, their son would protect them from the entailment."
Taking a deep breath to suppress the warring emotions of anger pain, fear, and more, the Earl responded. "I understand and agree that you should never have switched them. However, I do not regret the years spent raising Richard, though, it seems I have you to thank for the opportunity even though it is painful to admit and accept the truth of what happened. There is nothing to forgive on my side. I cannot speak for the Bennets, though. You must speak to them as it is between you and them to come to terms over this."
"Will you be willing to help correct the situation with the Bennets? I mean send, the young man to his family?" She asked hesitantly.
"I will talk with Richard. After that, it will be his decision. If he should decide to help them and return to them, I will send word to you. It may be better to wait for you to talk to them until everything is settled with Richard first as he will be the most affected by this situation."
Relief crossed Mrs. Smith's face, "Thank you."
The Earl of Matlock returned home and asked that his wife join him in the study as soon as possible. As he sat down, his mind wandered to the moment before he took his leave of Mrs. Smith. He remembered that the peaceful expression that rested on her face was as if she felt close to achieving a peace she had not felt in close to thirty years. His line of thought was disrupted by his wife's approaching footsteps.
"Edmund, what is it? Is something the matter?" His wife entered as beautiful as ever even at sixty-three. Her hair, which always drew his attention, was touched with only a little gray, something he could not claim for himself.
"Elizabeth, please sit down. I have a lot to say, and you will not like it."
"What is the matter? Has someone been hurt? Has Richard been recalled to duty?"
"No, none of those, though it involves Richard. Before you worry more, he is well. In face, he is not aware of this yet. What I have to discuss with you might upset you. Do you remember when Richard was born?"
"Of course. I remember how thankful I was to have our son so healthy and happy. I felt so sorry of that other family. I remember you named Richard after the gentleman. What does that have to do with this thought?" His wife frowned at what she perceived as a sudden change of topic.
"More than you might imagine. What I need to tell you is that I recently, actually today, heard from the midwife who attended you and the other lady. To summarize, her nephew stood to inherit the other couple's estate through an entailment if they had no heir. After she heard our own story, she made a decision. After the birth, she switched the children."
Lady Fitzwilliam's eyes widened as she realised the implications of what her husband revealed. She stood up, shaking her hands and pointing at him, she argued, "No, Edmund. Richard is our son! Even if it did happen, we need not tell him. We raised him, we are family! I will not lose my child! Not to mention, the current heir to the other family will suddenly be displaced." With that she turned to the window and crossed her arms.
Coming up behind his wife, he put his hand on her shoulder to turn her gently toward him; however, she steadfastly refused to budge. He sighed and spoke quietly, "Elizabeth, they have no heir."
Turning suddenly she stared into her husbands face searching for the truth she saw in his eyes, "What?"
"They have no heir. The Bennets, yes I know their name, have five daughters, with an entailment over their heads."
"Oh no, those poor girls." Lady Fitzwilliam's hand covered her mouth as tears welled up in her eyes.
"Exactly. Would you want to deprive them of their home, because you do not want to relinquish to them the brother that belongs to them? Would you want them to selfishly keep our child if the reverse were true? The Bennets were as devastated by the loss as we were by ours. We need to at least tell them the truth including Richard."
"You are right. I . . . I only fear . . . losing our son even if he is not ours by blood. He has been ours from the day he was born. I . . . I guess I . . ."
Taking his wife in his arms as she accepted the comfort and rested her head on his shoulder, Edmund said, "I know. I feel the same, but you know that Richard would still be apart of our family even though he truly is a Bennet. We would not be losing our son, but adding his family to ours. Richard would not abandon us, though his duty would lie elsewhere. Besides it does benefit our son."
"How is it besides knowing his true identity? He will lose his status as the son of an Earl."
"True, but now he has an estate to inherit, even if it is small. Currently, he is a younger son; you know that means little advantage to himself even with the money we have laid aside for him. If he is to provide for a wife and family adequately, he would need a steady income that is better than his current pay. You know Richard feels he must marry well financially if he is to ever have a family. This way he now has a home to provide for a wife and can more easily choose a match of love which is what we have wanted for him. We can still give him the money as a give even if he is not our son by blood."
"You are right again, my love. I know it is for the best. Yet . . . I do not want to give up my son even if I am still part of his life. Still, He must be told the truth and he must be allowed to decide for himself. I assume this is what you already planned to do?"
"Yes."
"When will you tell him?"
"I am going to send an express and have him return from Rosings at once. I will also contact his commanding officer and gain an extended leave of absence for him. I know the gentleman so I do not believe that it will be difficult gaining the leave for family issues."
"Will not your sister be suspicious of the content of the express?"
"Probably, but Richard knows how to avoid telling his Aunt what he does not want her to know. He is too experienced with his Aunt's opinions on some subjects to mention anything that will delay him."
Lady Fitzwilliam smiled, "I should certainly hope so with as many times as he has returned from Rosings with complaints and stating that he would not return the next time. I think the only reason he continues to go is to support Darcy and distract Lady Catherine so that he can have some peace. And Darcy only goes to prevent her from visiting at Pemberley and settling in for a couple of months. I remember she did that once when Anne and George were still alive. Neither of them were happy about it. Anne was beside herself with frustration and George was struggling to remain calm and not give in to telling your sister how he felt about her intrusion."
"As much as you enjoy reminiscing over the fact that people do not visit my sister because they want to, I need to send that express."
"Alright. Please do me one favour though."
"What is it?"
"If Richard decides to go to his real family, allow me to see him before he leaves?"
"Of course, my dear. I would never deprive you that opportunity. Before you leave though, I want your opinion on something. As I feel this would be easier on us all if it is handled quickly, I though I should send an express to Mr. Bennet as well informing him of what has happened and that I will be putting the choice to Richard. I will tell him I understand his plight, but I do not want to force Richard into anything. From what I know of the gentleman, I think he will understand and accept what Richard wants. I will also say that if Richard decides to meet them, we will travel to Hertfordshire immediately. He should receive an express before we arrive. He should respond to this one if that is acceptable."
"My dear, if you think it is the right thing to do, do it. Do you have their address?"
"Yes. I corresponded with Mr. Bennet for years. We lost contact about the time Anne died. I know I have their address somewhere in here. It should not take me long to find it."
"Very well then. I will leave you for now."
As Lady Fitzwilliam left the room, her husband noticed the tears trailing down her face. He wished he could sit down and bury his face in his hands, but he did not have the time. It would be easier on them all if this was taken are of immediately. There would be time enough later to grieve.
Chapter 2 Posted on Monday, 20 November 2006
Elizabeth Bennet enjoyed her walk through the Rosings grounds. She had been walking for a short time when she heard someone approach. Turning, she smiled at the gentleman.
"Miss Bennet."
"Colonel Fitzwilliam."
"I see you are taking the opportunity to see the Park in all its beauty as I am."
"Indeed, it is very beautiful."
"Would you let me point out some areas of interest? Darcy told me you are an avid walker."
"I would enjoy that, though I have no doubt Mr. Darcy made his opinions quite clear."
The Colonel frowned at her comment about Darcy. He was aware that his cousin admired Miss Bennet greatly. However, she acted like she loathed him and that the feeling was mutual.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth was oblivious to the Colonel's musings. She had returned her focus to nature as she had no wish to dwell on the subject of Mr. Darcy which she would learn would not disappear so easily.
Eventually, they started talking. From time to time, Colonel Fitzwilliam would point out something of interest and would regale her with stories of the antics he and his cousin would get into when they visited Rosings when they were little. Although she was uncomfortable with the renewed subject of Darcy and found it difficult to relate this picture the Colonel painted to what she knew of the man, she could not help but laugh at their antics or an enraged Lady Catherine chasing two mud-covered boys out of the house and through the Park.
"And over there is the tree Darcy would hide in almost every time we came to visit. I became quite good at diverting our Aunt when they came too close to finding him."
"Why would he need to hide? I thought Lady Catherine favoured him."
The Colonel snorted, "Ahem. Pardon me Miss Bennet, but my Aunt's favouritism is rather overbearing and demanding. I think you yourself have observed our Aunt's manner and attitude to those in her company. You have never seen her upset though. If a person does not capitulate to her every idea, she can make that person more than miserable. Darcy will be respectful of her, but he will not let her dictate his life to him. I am rather lucky to be a younger son. She likes my presence only as long as it suits her and because I am family, but she has no personal plans for me like she had for my poor cousins. Anne is frustrated that her mother will not let her make her own decisions . . . I am sorry Miss Bennet. I should not be telling you all this. Please pardon me." During his rant, his face hardened as he spoke of the treatment his cousins endured from Lady Catherine.
"It is alright. You seemed to enjoy venting a little."
The Colonel chuckled. "You do not know the half of it. My family usually gets the brunt of it when I arrive home, but everyone expects it. While here, Darcy and I cannot even complain to each other unless we are outside wandering the grounds. It seems everything that happens or is said within our Aunt's home gets back to her."
Elizabeth laughed, "She does like to have her say in every conversation."
They both laughed heartily at this.
"Miss Bennet, I must thank you. I have never had a sister and you have given me the opportunity to know what it is like to have one today. Thank you."
"No thanks are necessary, Colonel. I, too, have been able to learn what it would have been like if I had had a brother. So, I think we are even."
"Then even we are."
"It is a pity that we are not related. Would it not be interesting if we were long lost siblings?" She grinned and her eyes sparkled mischievously.
Both broke out in laughter as the Colonel replied between bursts of laughter, "Oh . . . Miss Bennet . . . that is . . . an amazing . . . thought! . . . I could see Aunt Catherine's face . . . and Darcy's!"
With that, their amusement doubled.
Elizabeth's laughter faded as she felt the wave of recognition pass through her again. She frowned as she looked at the Colonel who now gained a puzzled look as he observed reaction.
"Alright, Miss Bennet, could you explain to me why you frown or become deep in thought at some point in my company? Has my cousin been telling tales about me?" The Colonel grinned as he said the last and turned to look at her.
"I would not be surprised to hear you cousin has done any such thing, but no I had heard nothing of you from Mr. Darcy. Truthfully, you remind me of someone and I cannot quite put my finger on who. It is frustrating to be so close at figuring who it is your remind me of and yet still not know."
Colonel Fitzwilliam had frowned at the comment about his cousin as it seemed to confirm his earlier suspicions that she did not like him, but laughed when he understood her consternation concerning himself.
"Well, at least I have the comfort of knowing you are not angry at me, but instead you are busy perplexing yourself in another ill-fated attempt to discover who my long lost twin is."
Elizabeth laughed as he grinned.
They spoke on amiably for a while when the subject of the Bingleys came up.
"What do you know of them?"
"I have met Bingley once and he is an amiable fellow . . ."
"Colonel Fitzwilliam!"
Both turned at the shout to see a person approaching them.
"Yes. What is it?"
"Sir, this express was sent on the express instructions to deliver this to you personally," the messenger said, handing the message to him and standing aside.
"Thank you." Colonel Fitzwilliam opened it and read it. Unable to take her leave, Elizabeth remained where she was.
"Pardon me, Miss Elizabeth, but it seems that I will be leaving sooner than planned. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay. May I also ask you to pass on my regrets to the rest of your party for not taking leave, but please do not mention the express?"
"I will tell them and I hope it is nothing serious. Good luck on your trip"
"Thank you, Miss Bennet. Good day." With that the Colonel bowed and turned and left.
Elizabeth watched him go before returning to the Parsonage. When he had read that note, his expression became more recognizable again, but she could not place where.
As Darcy left the Rosings Library, he saw his cousin passing quickly with a more serious expression than usual.
"Fitzwilliam, where are you going in such a hurry?" The Colonel stopped, turned back and looked up and down the hall before answering.
"I received an express asking for my immediate return home."
"Is everyone alright? Is Georgiana safe?"
"It said nothing about illness or about anyone at all. If something had happened with Georgiana, especially while she is visiting them, they would have sent it to you. I am assuming it is some sort of business."
"Your parents would not have sent it to me and you are well aware of the fact. If our Aunt saw that it was for me she would have opened it or, failing that, demanded the contents form me. For some unfathomable reason, she feels she has the right to know about anything that involves me."
"I know that all too well cousin. I have witnessed her attentiveness to your concerns myself. Why do you think I endure her company every year?"
"Very true and I never truly thank you for it, do I?"
"You do not need to. We have been as close as brothers all our lives. I know that if ever I needed your help, you would be there."
"Of course I would. Is there anything I could do for you before you leave?"
"Could you not tell Aunt Catherine about the express and its contents?"
"Certainly, but she will still want to know why you are leaving."
"Hmmm ... I think I will tell her it involves my military duties. She will accept that."
"Will she not wonder why it came as an express?"
"Darcy, I am trying to simply leave and you turn it into a complicated matter. I will say that it came this way for reasons I am not at liberty to say. Will that do my perfectionist cousin?"
"Ha, Ha, Richard. You are absolutely hilarious. Yes, of course it will do. I was only pointing out flaws that Aunt Cat would pounce on."
Both shared a smile at their childhood nickname for their Aunt.
"Thank you."
"Your welcome. Fitzwilliam, could you give a letter to my sister while you are there?"
"Yes, I will make sure she gets it. Only I will need it shortly as I am leaving as soon as I am packed."
"It is already written all I need do is retrieve it."
"Alright."
"I hope everything is well and wish your parents well for me."
"I will." The Colonel nodded and headed toward his rooms as Darcy went to retrieve his letter.
Later that day, the Colins', Maria Lucas and Elizabeth Bennet attended Rosings. Elizabeth noticed how Lady Catherine delivered the news of the Colonel's removal due to military duties. She was certain it had nothing to do with the Colonel's career, but suppressed a smile as she thought of how Lady Catherine would have insisted on adding her own opinions if she had known otherwise.
Darcy, Elizabeth observed, continued in a somewhat aggravated mood throughout most of the evening. He would constantly shift position, stand and remove to the window or glance at herself whenever his Aunt was not looking.
Lady Catherine attributed Darcy's agitation to his having to leave soon himself. She kept glancing between him and her daughter, Anne. She even became so bold as to hint at an attachment between them to which Darcy rolled his eyes as he stood by the windows facing out and his cousin sighed in exasperation. It was apparent to everyone, but Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins that no such attachment existed.
Elizabeth's awareness of all these events led her to believe that Darcy's tension had more do to with being abandoned in the clutches of his matchmaking Aunt by Colonel Fitzwilliam, than by any imagined attachments and hopes of Lady Catherine. Still, she was disconcerted by his constant glances.
The one-sided conversation continued some while before Mr. Darcy interrupted.
"Could we not have some music, Aunt? Miss Bennet, would you oblige us?"
"Miss Bennet will be glad of the chance to play for us again, will you not?"
"Certainly Lady Catherine." As Elizabeth stood, and walked to the piano-forte, Darcy followed her.
"Miss Bennet, would you permit me to turn the pages for you?" Darcy asked as he smiled a little, but before Elizabeth could answer Lady Catherine interrupted.
"Darcy come over here, Mrs. Collins can turn the pages for her friend. I want to talk to you."
Darcy simply pursed his lips while an annoyed expressed crossed his face, but he complied with his Aunt's wishes. Mrs. Collins observed him as she passed him to join Elizabeth at the piano-forte.
"Well, Lizzy, you cannot tell me now, that Mr. Darcy dislikes you. He has been staring at you quite often, contrived to be near you as you played, smiled at you and was not happy about being called away."
"Really, Charlotte, you are imagining things. He no doubt wants to be clear of his Aunt since his cousin left him alone here."
"On the contrary, Lizzy, you are simply stubborn. You have put too much stock in Mr. Wickham's stories."
"Miss Bennet, you are going to play for us are you not?" Lady Catherine asked putting an end to any more conversation between the two. Darcy glared at his Aunt's continued interruptions.
"Yes, madam."
With that, Elizabeth played earning the usual criticisms from Lady Catherine. Darcy listened attentively to her playing and grimaced at his Aunt's comments. No more opportunities presented themselves for Darcy to approach and speak to Elizabeth and she was unable to finish her conversation with Charlotte due to Lady Catherine's interference.
Chapter 3 Posted on Monday, 20 November 2006
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam arrived home exhausted. He went to his room for a bath and some sleep after meeting with his father who said it could easily wait until the next morning. So, he remained in suspense over the summons although it did not keep him from sleeping well.
The next morning, the Colonel looked over at a window on the way to his father's study to see the early rays of a bright and cheerful morning. As he entered, the room, he saw his father already there, sitting pensively.
"What was so urgent and has you so upset, Papa?" Edmund Fitzwilliam looked up with pain in his eyes.
"Richard, sit down as what I have to say will shock you."
"What do you mean?" He took a seat close to his father.
"I have learned a bit of information that I cannot doubt. You are not my son."
"What?!" The Colonel suddenly looked both hurt and furious.
"Please, let me finish! It is not what you think! The night you were born, we were at an inn where another couple were also having a child born. Apparently, the midwife's nephew was in line to inherit this couple's estate through an entailment if there was no male heir. When they bore a healthy son, she switched him with my and my wife's stillborn one."
The Colonel's jaw dropped. This was entirely unexpected. Blinking and shaking his head in shock, he replied, "So, I am not even a Fitzwilliam, but belong to some other family. Do you even know who they are?"
"Yes. In fact I corresponded with the gentleman for a few years before we lost contact. We even named you after the gentleman. I must say, you are taking this better than I expected."
Richard began to wonder when the surprises would end. It was rather ironic that he was named after his real father when neither knew it. "How else am I supposed to act? I trust your judgement on this. If you say you are certain about the truth of this matter, I believe you."
"Thank you."
"Could you tell me the name of . . . of my family?"
"Indeed. The gentleman was named Richard Bennet . . ."
His eyes widened as he recognized the name. "Bennet! Would they happen to come from Longbourn in Hertfordshire?"
"Yes, but how did you know?" The Earl observed the shock spreading across his son's face. He still could not think of Richard as not his own child.
"I met Miss Elizabeth Bennet, their daughter, at Rosings while she visited her friend, Mrs. Collins. She had married Miss Bennet's cousin, Mr. Collins."
"Interesting and what did you think of her?"
"Elizabeth Bennet is a witty and intelligent young woman. She is outspoken and gives her opinions readily which rather annoyed my Aunt. She ahs a wonderful sense of humour. I was actually talking with her as we had met during our walks when I received your express. At one point, we expressed a wish to have had a sibling like the other. It was her next comment that is so shocking in light of this new situation."
"What did she say?"
"She, in jest, commented that we might be long lost relatives."
"She did! She must be more perceptive than even she realized."
"What you might find interesting is that she though I resembled someone, but she could not identify who."
"Ah . . . It seems she must be thinking of her father then. For years I knew you reminded me of someone, but I only realized that it was Mr. Bennet after this discovery came about. You look almost like he did when I first met him. The resemblance is uncanny.
"Well, that should help to support the midwife's claims. If her word is all we had to go on, I could see Mr. Collins challenging it."
"You know he is the one the estate is entailed to?"
"Lady Catherine was kind enough to inform everyone of it. I remember wishing I could do something for Miss Bennet's family after I met her. I felt sorry that she and her sisters would be displaced if something happened to their father. Mr. Collins listens and does whatever Lady Catherine deems correct. So, you can have no doubt as to what would have happened to them. I am assuming that it is the entailment that caused you to send for me so quickly, am I correct?"
"Yes, it is. Richard, let me make this clear. This is your choice and I never will push you away, but there are several advantages for them and you and it would be the right thing to do."
"Father, I understand, I know what I must do. Even though it would be wise to sit down and think about this, I feel that there is only one solution. I wanted to help when they were barely even acquaintances, and now that they are family, I have the opportunity. I can stop the entailment by simply revealing the relationship. If anyone questions it, there is the evidence of my resemblance to Mr. Bennet and the midwife's confession."
Edmund Fitzwilliam starred at his son with a mixture of pride and sorrow. "I am glad to hear that you will help them. How soon do you want to inform the Bennets?"
"As soon as possible. I have to be back on duty soon. If I decide to resign my commission to be with them, then I should go soon."
"I already took care of your leave and had it extended until this is resolved. I took the liberty of informing Mr. Bennet as I felt he had the right to at least know. I told him that if you are willing to expect us soon. I can send an express to him today and we could leave this afternoon. I am sure we could see him tomorrow morning."
"That would work. I need to give Georgiana a letter from Darcy."
"And, it would give you time to talk to your mother. She was insistent she get a chance to speak to you."
"I am certain of that." Richard looked down at his hands wondering how he could approach the woman who had been his mother and if he could handle her reaction to all of this.
"Cousin! When did you arrive?" Georgiana's cheerful face greeted the Colonel. He had hurried back to his room to grab Darcy's letter hoping that Georgiana might still be at breakfast when he arrived. He hoped it was still early enough for breakfast, as he had skipped it for that morning's conversation with his father.
"Georgiana, I only arrived last night and unfortunately will be leaving today." He watched as her happiness dwindled.
"Oh. Are you sure you have to leave so soon?"
"Yes, I am sure, but I have something for you. Your brother bade me bring you this, my lady." He smiled as her face lit up as she saw Darcy's letter.
"Richard! Quit teasing and let me have my brother's letter. Really, you get worse every time I see you and no doubt when I do not as Fitzwilliam says as much."
"Oh really. You should not listen so much to Darcy's complaints of my teasing. He can be very good at it himself when he puts his mind to it."
"Yes, and who is responsible for that, cousin dear."
"Me, naturally."
"You had better go eat before the food is cleared away or you will have to sneak into the kitchens again and I am sure you remember what happened the last time you did that."
The Colonels ears began to turn red. "How did you find out about that?"
"Aunt Fitzwilliam."
"Oh."
"I see you learned of Richard's little food escapades." The Earl had entered intending to snatch some food as well as he had missed breakfast too.
"Yes and they are quite amusing."
"Oh, goody. I can assure you it is not so funny to have accidentally tipped over the flour on myself and be chased out of the kitchen by an angry cook wielding a ladle. All I wanted to do was get a small snack and that happened when I was twelve."
"Maybe so, but it is funny to imagine you, a Colonel, covered in flour running from an older woman waving a ladle." Laughter erupted from the young girl.
"Georgiana!"
The Colonel went to find his mother after finally getting to eat, though not in peace as Georgiana had continued to giggle periodically. He could not truly complain about it as it was the first time he had seen his cousin in such high spirits since the sad events of last summer.
He found her in the one morning room that she favoured doing some needlework.
"Mama."
Lady Fitzwilliam looked up at the young man she still considered to be her son and smiled. "Richard, it is good to see you. I assume you have decided to go to them."
"Yes. It is the right thing to do and I admit that I am a little curious about them."
"Please come and sit next to me. Your father told me that you both shall be leaving this afternoon and I have much to tell you."
Richard took a seat next to her and noticed that his mother looked just a little older than she had the last time he saw her.
"Mother, are you all right?"
"Yes, I am fine. It is hard to accept this new situation."
"Mama, I am certain Papa has told you that I will not simply cut off ties with you. You raised me when you thought I was your son, and now I may have responsibilities elsewhere, but you will always be Mama."
Elizabeth Fitzwilliam's eyes filled with tears as she threw her arms around her son. "Oh, my son. I love you so much."
"I love you too."
They spent the rest of the morning talking and reminiscing until it was time for him to leave.
Chapter 4 Posted on Monday, 20 November 2006
Tick! Tick! Tick! Mr. Bennet sat at his desk watching the pocket watch he held in his hand. Every tick of the clock was another moment closer to meeting his son. The passage of time felt remarkably similar to when Richard was born, only this time he waited for a young man instead of a baby. Ever since he received that enlightening express two days prior, questions circulated through his mind. What is Richard like? Does he truly want to get to know his real family? Would he want to stay with us?
Clearing his thoughts with a shake of his head, Mr. Bennet pulled a handkerchief out and wiped his forehead and hands which felt suddenly damp. He knew that Lord Fitzwilliam and Colonel, Fitzwilliam, as his son was currently known as, would arrive any minute. If only 'any minute' did not feel like an eternity.
He smiled as he remembered the odd looks Fanny had given him over the passed two days. She knew something had happened, but for once had remained quiet about it. Normally, she would have demanded what had happened or asked if it declared that Jane and Bingley were engaged after all, but she had remained silent. It was like seeing a flash of the woman I fell in love with instead of the woman she became. I only with it would last. After all she still acts silly when either Kitty or Lydia mentions officers, lace or some other like subject.
Knowing his wife and younger daughters' penchant for unbecoming behaviour, he had arranged for them to have a little extra money to go to Meryton to shop. His plans had almost unravelled as Mary seemed incline to stay home until he suggested she visit the bookshop. Mr. Bennet did not want them to create a scene the moment his son arrived. He desperately hoped to create a good impression for him at least on first meeting him.
A knock sounded disrupting his thoughts, "Enter."
Hill entered followed by two gentlemen, "Lord Fitzwilliam and Colonel Fitzwilliam to see you sir." With that she curtsied and left.
No words, nothing seemed appropriate to say, so silence filled the room as Mr. Bennet at last glimpsed the son stolen from him. It is like seeing me at that age. Blinking and taking a deep breath as he realized he had stared and said nothing. "It is a pleasure to meet you again Lord Fitzwilliam . . . Colonel . . ." He could not think of what to say to his son.
The Colonel understood Mr. Bennet's inability to speak to him as he too could not find the right words. Nothing seemed correct.
"It is a pleasure to meet you again as well though I wish it had been under different circumstances."
"Truly. Please sit down." Both gentlemen took a seat opposite Mr. Bennet's at the desk.
"Shall we start with deciding on how to reveal this new situation?" Lord Fitzwilliam felt he better introduce the subject that would be difficult for them all.
"Should we not take some time first getting to know one another?" Frowning all the while at his adoptive father for his quick push into the issue, the Colonel questioned.
"As much as I would wish for that, I must agree with your . . . errr . . . the Earl. We will have plenty of time for pleasantries later. However, as much as I want you, my son, here, I want to know what you want to do more?"
Richard realized as he looked between the man who raised him and his real father that he would have to make the decision he made back in London known. He glanced at Lord Fitzwilliam who simply continued to look down at his hands, accepting the decision he knew was coming.
He turned back to Mr. Bennet and said, "As much as I love the Fitzwilliams who have been my family for my entire life, I want to stay and get to know my real family, if you will have me." His eyes never strayed from looking his father in the eye.
Mr. Bennet smiled and blinked back tears as relief flooded through him. "You do not know how happy I am to hear that."
"I might be able to guess, Mr. . . Ah . . . Father." The Colonel faltered as he adjusted his address. He was pleased to note the bright smile that covered Mr. Bennet's face.
"It will take time to adjust for everyone I am sure. If you feel more comfortable calling me Mr. Bennet, I will not be upset."
"Thank you. It will take some time to adjust." Colonel Fitzwilliam sighed in relief.
"You mentioned in your express that you intended on waiting before informing the rest of your family. When do you wish to tell them." Lord Fitzwilliam enquired.
Both of the other gentlemen comprehended how difficult this line of discussion made the Earl and decided to move through it as quickly as possible.
"Hmmm . . . I would like to introduce my wife to you in private. I am unsure how she will react to this. Years ago, she would have been ecstatic and rightfully angry at the midwife. Now though . . ."
"How might she react? Have things changed so much?" Lord Fitzwilliam asked worried at just how much damage this event had wrought.
"Yes indeed, things have changed. With every progressive daughter and as the likelihood of having an heir decreased, Fanny has become a bit silly. She is so desperate to see our daughters well settled due to the entailment, she has . . . become obsessed with everything that could be of use in reaching her goal unfortunately. And I cannot say that I helped ease her mind either." The last sounded so softly that the Earl and Colonel barely caught it. They glanced at each other wishing they knew what to say to ease Mr. Bennet's worries.
The Earl decided to try the direct approach. "Oh. You think she may be a little over enthusiastic over regaining a son?"
"Most probably."
"Maybe she might simply be happy about it without any extra enthusiasm?" Richard offered this as he hoped for it because he felt that losing him had set his mother's path for her.
"Perhaps, though I do not think it likely, but you may think that way if you like."
"What about your daughters? How would you like to inform them?" Seeing the melancholy starting to set in, Edmund attempted to change the focus a little and it worked, somewhat.
"I would prefer to wait until my eldest two have returned home. Jane has been staying in London with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. Elizabeth is visiting her friend, Mrs. Collins, in Kent. They can help keep the younger girls in order."
"I, actually, have met Miss . . . errr . . . Elizabeth while I was visiting Aunt . . . Lady Catherine with my cous . . . Mr. Darcy. Arghhh! It is so hard keeping straight who is family and who is not now. Anyway, she did manage to keep Darcy on his toes with her quick wit." He ran his hand through his hair in frustration.
Mr. Bennet's eyes shown with amusement at his son's description of the interaction between his favourite daughter and Mr. Darcy, "I can believe that. She has not liked Mr. Darcy ever since they met at an Assembly. Though her dislike has grown with Mr. Wickham's tales . . ."
"Wickham?! He is here in Meryton?" The Colonel's smile disappeared and he immediately straightened in his seat. His jaw hardened and his whole manner shouted disgust.
Neither Mr. Bennet nor the Earl missed the Colonel's change in expression and they immediately became wary, "Yes, he has been a great favourite in Meryton and with my daughters since he joined the Militia. He was quite attentive to Elizabeth when he first arrived."
"You should not allow your family to associate with that man. He is no gentleman, I can assure you. He leaves large debts where ever he has been and I know he is trouble where ladies are concerned. I can name more serious actions at Wickham's door, but they are known to me in confidence, but I can assure you that whatever Wickham has said has some truth, but it has been grossly misrepresented."
Both gentlemen shared a look as they apprehended that there was more to this than the Colonel was letting on.
"I will be certain to keep the girls away from him. Unfortunately, he is well liked here in Hertfordshire. Is there anything we could say to inform our acquaintances of the man's character that would not violate any confidences you have?"
"You said he was in the militia. If you could tell me his commanding officer's name, I could inform him."
"It is a Colonel Forster. The innkeeper at the Lion's Heart could direct you more easily."
"Good. I will talk to him today, if possible. If not, I will first thing tomorrow morning. That should hamper Wickham quite a lot hopefully."
"Indeed. Thank you for telling me. I do not think I need you to worry about my eldest three daughters, but the younger two would have been at risk. They are absolutely silly about officers, I am sorry to say. You had best not wear your uniform or mention your rank around them until they are informed of the situation or it might result in quite a bit of embarrassment."
"I will make sure I say nothing and my uniform remains safely packed away."
"I only have one question, though. Why did Mr. Darcy not inform Colonel Forster himself when the man came into Meryton? It is well known that they knew each other, but that it is not with good feelings."
The Colonel shifted uncomfortably, glancing at both men before settling his eyes on the floor, "He has his reasons."
Edmund Fitzwilliam raised an eyebrow at that. He guessed that Mr. Bennet and he were of the same mind that that is where the confidences Richard had mentioned originated. However, he trusted the two and resolved to wait until they felt they could confide whatever it was that happened with him. So, he worked on changing the flow once again, "As that is fairly well settled, how or when should the others be informed of the new circumstances?"
"Elizabeth and Jane originally planned to have returned home in a little over a week. However, I could send an express today and have them home on Saturday if that is convenient for you both."
"Yes that would be fine for me, I have an extended leave."
"I can stay as well. My wife knows I might be away for a while and Charles is away visiting his wife's family for the next two months with their children.
"Would you mind if I invited Fanny's brother and his wife to come as well if the business will allow them to? They are the couple Jane is staying with and they may be helpful in controlling the younger girls as well. I trust them completely."
"Certainly," the Colonel responded without the slight hesitation of the Earl.
"That would be fine. However, when are you planning to inform Mrs. Bennet? Did you want to inform her before or did you want to inform them all at once?"
"I was actually hoping I could do so today. As soon as she sees our son, she will realize something has happened. If you would like to wait, she should arrive home by tea time. I think it would be easier to explain with you here."
"We would be happy to stay. It also gives the two of you a chance to talk and get to know one another," Edmund Fitzwilliam offered.
"It is also an opportunity for both of you to catch up on the past few years you lost contact during. I am sure you have missed corresponding with each other."
"Indeed I have. I rarely find individual's that match your sharp intellect and wit, Mr. Bennet. Your letters were quite refreshing and I regret ever having lost contact."
"As have I, sir. It is stimulating to converse with another gentleman on serious matters instead of the constant prattle of lace and silks I have endured at the hands of six women."
"You two make quite the pair of gossips, do not you know?" Richard grinned at them.
"Absolutely," Mr. Bennet smiled when the Colonel's teasing fell flat at the unexpected retort.
"I think you have finally met your match in teasing, Richard. Now you will not be the one always handing it out, will you my boy?" The Earl's amusement easily reached his eyes as he struggled not to laugh out right at the stunned turned annoyed look on his one-time son's face.
The gentlemen spent a several hours enjoying thought-provoking conversation and easy banter until they heard Mrs. Bennet's loud astonishment at being told that her husband expected her to come to his library immediately upon her return. As her approaching footsteps sounded, the gentlemen stood in preparation for introductions.
The door opened to admit an exasperated Mrs. Bennet. She remained unaware of the guests as she had her head down fixing her cap.
"Really, could not the conversation wait, Richard. I arrive home to have Hill inform me that I am required to see you immediately over some matter or other. It is no doubt some trifling matter so it could have . . ." Mrs. Bennet trailed off as her eyes set upon Colonel Fitzwilliam. Her hand flew to her mouth, My goodness sakes; he looks exactly like Richard did at twenty-eight.
"My dear, would you please take a seat? There is something you should know about." Mrs. Bennet took a seat, her eyes barely leaving the Colonel who began to feel uncomfortable.
"I will keep this short, my dear, but, first, let me introduce the gentlemen. This is Lord Fitzwilliam, the Earl of Matlock who I am sure you remember meeting briefly after the birth of our first child. This gentleman is Colonel Fitzwilliam who is thought by so many to be the Earl's son."
"Thought?" Fanny Bennet jumped on the word. From the moment she had set eyes on the younger man, she had been certain of what they were going to tell her. Her intuition was practically screaming at her as it had not done in years.
"Yes, thought. It has been discovered that a switch took place. The midwife took the Fitzwilliam's stillborn . . ."
" . . . and switched him with our son." Fanny finished her husband's explanation quietly. Tears sprang to her eyes as she continued to stare at her son.
"Yes. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam is actually our son. Colonel Richard Bennet." Mr. Bennet watched his wife as she began to try to smile and sob at the same time. One hand clutched the arm of her chair and the other again covered her mouth as deep sobs began to take over. Her husband was stunned into inactivity and Lord Fitzwilliam felt helpless.
Richard, on the other hand, approached his mother and kneeled down in front of her. He took her hands and held them, "Mother, it is alright. I am here now. You do not need to be so sad anymore." With that, Fanny reached out and held her son for the first time while crying uncontrollably. As her tears began to diminish, Richard could hear her whisper repeatedly, "My baby, my son. Finally, I have my baby back."
After some minutes passed, Mrs. Bennet regained control of herself and pulled back her hands resting on her son's shoulders while she really looked at him. Finally, she let go of him and brought out a handkerchief and wiped her eyes with it.
Looking at the Colonel, she addressed him quietly and calmly, "I am sorry. You have only just met me, even if I am your mother. You do not need me crying all over you in such a way. All I can say for myself is that I was denied the chance to hold my own son as a baby and I simply could not stop myself now. It is something that has filled my dreams since the day of your birth. I am acting rather silly I know."
"Actually, I think you acted as any mother who had found their long lost child would act. How is that silly?" The Colonel responded with a slight smile.
Mrs. Bennet returned the smile, "Thank you. You are a very understanding young man."
Turning to the Earl she said, "As for you sir, I am sorry. You must find it even more difficult having raised a son only to discover this. I can sympathize with the loss, for I grieved for the son I thought I lost as well as our other two children."
"Your sympathy and understanding mean much to my wife and I. You are gracious and kind madam."
"No, I am neither gracious nor completely kind, especially not recently."
"Do not write yourself short madam. You worry about your family and make your plans because you love your family very much."
"Yet, it does not excuse my behaviour to them or to others."
"You seem perfectly amiable and kind, what is there to worry about?"
"You have not seen me before learning of my son. I have been embarrassing my husband and my daughters for far too long. I fear I did more harm than good with my antics."
Mr. Bennet watched the transformation in his wife and was astounded at the speed at which it took place.
"Fanny . . ."
The lady turned to look at her husband, "I know, it seems sudden to change like this, but . . . it is like a heavy weight has been removed. I always . . . felt that something was wrong with that day . . . that there had to be some mistake. Now, it turns out I was right. Because of that, all these worries I have had over the girls futures are not there any more. At least not to the extent that they were as I no longer have to fear that they will be put out by our cousins as I know they would have been."
The elder Richard Bennet and his wife stared at each other sharing a look that expressed so much of their feelings over everything that had happened.
"Well, I hate to interrupt, but shall we discuss the plans to inform the others with Mrs. Bennet?" Lord Fitzwilliam asked, uncomfortable to be the one to break up this obviously wonderful moment for the couple.
"You are going to send for Lizzy and Jane, are you not Mr. Bennet?" Fanny asked as she looked to her husband.
"Yes. I will send an express and they should be here on Saturday, I think. That will give us the chance to tell them Saturday evening before dinner."
"Should we not let them rest and wait till Monday to tell them?"
"And what about Kitty and Lydia? They will suspect something, you know. Mary will not miss the fact that something has happened either. Not to mention, do you want to risk the possibility of our two youngest hearing of another officer in the neighbourhood?"
"Oh my, no! That would be more than awkward indeed. Well, I guess that means we tell them all on Saturday then. Oh, it is going to be so hard to keep Kitty and Lydia especially from prying until then. It cannot be helped though."
"Where are they anyway, I am sure they would have been interested in all the commotion?"
"They stayed to talk and have tea with Mrs. Forster. They insisted that they would walk home after since I had resolved on returning home with the packages we bought." She blushed as she realized the amount of frivolous items they had spent so much on.
"Is Mrs. Forster, Colonel Forster's wife?"
"Yes, she and Lydia have become quite close. Why, what is wrong?"
"It seems I had better handle that business sooner rather than later. I know it means taking leave so soon after meeting, but I know that one of the officers in the militia is not a man to be trusted. I have dealt with him before and trust others who have had the misfortune to come across or be acquainted with him. I need to go and speak to the Colonel of the regiment about this, and I would recommend letting the friendship between his wife and Miss Lydia cool a little so as to distance her from that officer." Richard spat the last word as if it was the last thing he wished to call the man.
"Who is it that you distrust so?"
"A Mr. Wickham. He is even more untrustworthy where ladies are concerned."
"You mean to say that Kitty or Lydia may be at risk?"
"Definitely."
"Then it is all the better for us to end the acquaintance here and now before something does happen. Thank you, Richard, for warning us and doing something about his presence in the neighbourhood even though we have to wait until Saturday to get to know you better."
"It is no difficulty to do this, though I must also wait until then to truly meet all my family."
Richard and the Earl soon took their leave in order for the Colonel to have a little chat with the regiment's Colonel Forster and for the Earl to send an express to update his wife on how everything had gone. The gentlemen would then settle in to wait the next two days for the final introduction to Colonel Fitzwilliam's new family. Richard wondered how Elizabeth would react to this.
That evening, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet sat in his library enjoying reading together as they had early in their marriage.
"My dear, I had almost expected you to invite them to dinner. Why did you not?"
"And have him meet the younger girls before learning the truth? No. As much as I want to learn more about our son, I can wait to avoid that mess, Mr. Bennet."
"Why do you insist on still being so formal, Fanny? You have not called me Richard in some time, why do you not start again?"
"Simply because we are to have two Richards in the house soon and it would become too confusing. So, I fear you must remain, Mr. Bennet," she answered in an impertinent manner that would rival her second daughter.
"Now, there is that impertinence I fell in love with so long ago. It is so good to see you come back, my love." His genuine smile made Fanny blush which in turn made him smile still more.
"I am not completely there yet, but I will continue to heal now. The biggest burden and obstacle has been removed. We have our son back."
"That we do indeed."