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Chapter 26

Posted on Friday, 25 April 2008

Daybreak found Mr. and Miss Darcy and Mr. Bingley pulling up to the front of Longbourn where the Fitzwilliam carriage was being loaded. As they exited the carriage, Mr. Bennet greeted them and informed them that the rest of their party would be ready in a few minutes time. Only a few short minutes passed, before Richard and his sisters exited the house followed by the Fitzwilliams. Again, greetings passed from one group to the other. Lady Fitzwilliam in particular asked many questions of her nephew and niece and gave little bits of advice as well as asking them to send word if any problems arose. Her concern for her nephew and niece earned a number of smiles. Richard simply smiled and rolled his eyes having been subjected to the same treatment all morning. He was only thankful that his sisters had managed to reassure his adoptive mother in ways he had been unable to do.

The trip, however, was not destined to leave with only these greetings and wishes for a safe trip from those staying behind; rather it was destined to start with a little bit of humour. Before everyone could enter the carriages, Bingley hurried back to Darcy’s and pulled out a basket of food he had his cook prepare for them. As he brought the basket to the Bennets, he was met by Mrs. Bennet who also carried a basket for him and the Darcy’s. Everyone smiled and laughed especially when Elizabeth commented that they would all be well fed and would all probably come back a few pounds heavier.

Thus, they left for Pemberley without anymore delay. At midday, they stopped at one of the inns along the route and partook a little more food, but were soon on their way. When evening arrived, they stopped at another inn Darcy recommended. They enjoyed a quiet meal in the private dinning room Mr. Darcy arranged for them. Although they spent a little time in conversation, all retired early as they had another long day ahead of them.

Arising early the next morning, everyone ate a light breakfast before re-entering the carraiges. They ate another midday meal at another inn along their route and hurried on from there to reach Pemberley by nightfall. The sun was just beginning to lower when they arrived. Mrs. Reynolds stood outside the front door and quickly set about organizing everything and everyone. Ever since she had received Mr. Darcy’s express, she had been busy in preparation for all the guests he would bring with him.

“Oh, it is good to see you sir. You must all be exhausted and the ladies in particular; I have baths prepared for them if they should wish it. I will show the ladies to their rooms so they might freshen up a bit. I prepared the same rooms for Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley that they occupied the last time they visited. There is a light meal also prepared whenever you are ready.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds, I greatly appreciate your help.”

With that, everyone retired to their rooms to change and clean up before reassembling in the dining room. The meal turned into a quiet affair due to a general fatigue. Despite this tiredness, Richard and Bingley wished to start planning the search for the lost document. Although he also wanted to make plans immediately, Darcy chose to delay to the morning. Between his sister’s drawn appearance and his fears that Miss Catherine would lose her battle to stay awake and fall face first asleep in her plate, he felt it best to wait as it would give them time to rest and that in turn would allow them all to think more clearly.

Thus, everyone left for their rooms as soon as the meal finished. No one found it difficult to fall asleep except Darcy who worried over his father’s lost will.

Elizabeth awoke in the morning at first a little disconcerted (disoriented) by her surroundings before remembering that she was at Pemberley. This recollection was all she needed to bring back all her earlier reflections.

She could readily admit to having been astonished at her first glimpse of the estate. They had stopped briefly when they arrived to see the sun set behind the house. She had to admit, it was beautiful. The inside of the house had also surprised her. The thoughtfulness of all the details including having a bath readied for them upon their arrival had impressed her. When she had thanked Mrs. Reynolds, the lady kindly replied that she should not be thanked as it had been Mr. Darcy’s orders that the company should be taken great care of and no consideration should be overlooked1 . That caused her to continue her reevaluation of the gentleman.

She had tried to be more understanding and open with him as her brother had asked of her, but when her family had begun teasing her about his attentions, she had withdrawn. The distress at her brother’s obvious matchmaking had caused her a sleepless night. She did not wish to be in company with Mr. Darcy and her matchmaking brother at the same time. Her turbulent thoughts and sleepless night had left her with a raging headache the next morning and thankfully prevented her from joining the Netherfield party for tea. By the time her family returned from Netherfield, her headache had not abated and had not allowed her to behave with more than bare civility. Jane and Richard both felt rather sympathetic toward her and Richard had apologized to her for his teasing her so much. However, that night had proven no less stressful as she now felt she had offended or at least upset Mr. Darcy with her coolness. Frustrated, she had finally fallen asleep with the determination that she would explain her behavior to him the next time she saw him. She had been pleased when he came to call with Mr. Bingley and was embarrassed that she had indeed caused some misunderstanding. Though now she could see no harm was done and they were back on a friendly base.

Still, this left her considering all her observations of Mr. Darcy. She was pleased to note his change of manner from the previous autumn. She found him more and more thoughtful of others than she had anticipated since she had promised her brother to give his former cousin a chance to prove himself to her1. He was kind and even grateful. The latter she had learned of when their party had stayed at the one inn overnight; he had spoken to her quietly during the meal and thanked her for her willingness to help him protect his sister2 . She had disagreed with him and said that both were struggling with the same problem that originated in the same source and that she knew he would help them and Richard too. Both faced losing a sibling to the interference of a person neither esteemed.

Elizabeth blushed as she thought about his reaction to her reply. There had been a softness in his eyes that was emphasized by the small smile he had given. She wondered what he might have said next if her brother had not joined their conversation and monopolized their attention for the rest of the evening.

She arose and walked over to the window and looked out. The sun was rising from beyond the stream causing everything to glow in the morning light1 . Feeling the confinement of the past two days, she dressed hurriedly and all but ran to the door. She did manage to get lost though and needed to ask a passing maid about the nearest exit as she wished to have a little early morning exercise3 . The maid escorted her to the nearest door and even gave her directions to the breakfast room when she had finished her walk.

About half an hour later, she headed for the breakfast room very hungry. She had enjoyed strolling through one of the gardens. The air was brisk and cool that morning and was perfect for her walk. She had enjoyed taking in the scent of one of the flowers that were in bloom.

As she entered the breakfast room, she noticed that she was not the first to arise. Mr. Darcy was already there, but no one else was. He looked up from his plate and smiled a little. She blushed a bit and went over to the sideboard for her breakfast.

Once she had seated herself a little ways away, Darcy looked up and frowned briefly. “You know I do not bite. You do not need to seat yourself so far away.”

She blushed again but said nothing as she moved to a nearer seat.

He addressed her again, “Your brother should be joining us shortly. I met him right before I came in here.”

“Oh, that is nice.”

As silence grew again, Darcy wondered what he could talk to her about. Although he remained distressed over his Aunt’s threat, he did not want to waste an opportunity to speak with Elizabeth.

“I hope you enjoyed your walk this morning.”

Elizabeth blinked in surprise, “How did you know I went for a walk?”

“Ah, I saw you from my window.” He blushed and looked back at his plate.

“Oh, um . . . well, I did enjoy the walk.”

“Oh.”

Gathering up her courage, she finally tried harder at keeping up the conversation, “I particularly enjoyed the beauty of the garden even this early. The air was so fresh and it was a perfect place to walk.”

His smile caught her a little off guard, but the wistfulness of it gained her attention until he spoke, “It was my mother’s favorite garden.”

“It is very lovely.”

“Indeed. My mother arranged most of it and even planted a number of the plants herself. Some people told her she ought not, but my father agreed with her and did not allow anyone to insult that garden or my mother’s working in it. I remember a few times when I was very little, she would take me out and set me on a blanket nearby while she worked. As I got older, she even taught me a little about each plant and how to care for it.” Here he stopped and blushed a bit.

Elizabeth could not help but smile at this recollection, “You must miss her very much.”

“Very much. Especially considering my sister. I wish she could have known her. My mother died when Georgiana was only two years old. Sometimes it is so hard. I wish she were still here as I have hardly known how to help my sister over the past few years. My Aunt Fitzwilliam has been helpful as has Mrs. Reynolds, but neither could truly be a mother to Georgiana as much as both have tried to give her all the affection and advice she needs that I could never give. I mean I am always there for her and would do anything for her, but . . . there is just some . . . some . . .” Here he grew flustered and stopped.

Grinning, Elizabeth enjoyed how he looked at that moment, “I think I understand. I can imagine how difficult it would have been when I think what I or my sister’s would have done had we had a younger brother.”

He smiled in return, “Thank you again. I do seem to be thanking you a lot lately.”

“You do not have to you know.”

“But I do”

“No you do not.”

“Yes I do.”

“No you do not.”

“Oh for goodness sake, are you to already arguing? You sound like a pair of two year olds.” Richard walked in shaking his head at his cousin’s and sister’s antics. He smiled to himself as he noticed the blush on both their faces when he went to fill his plate.

“What were you two arguing about anyway?” Richard said as he sat down with his plate now filled with food.

“Oh, it was nothing.” They both said at once.

“Nothing was it? It did not seem nothing to me.”

Both simply pursed their lips and remained silent. Richard chuckled, “You both want to tell me just the opposite again.”

“What would be the point of that? Other than you accusing us of acting like two year olds again except you would be joining us this time.”

“No, I would not Darcy.”

“I would not be so sure of that.”

“What makes you say that?”

“I remember that day when you kept asking my Aunt and Uncle for a little sister?”

Richard blushed crimson, “You do not have to remind me of that and I was seven back then.”

Grinning as he took a sip of his tea, he glanced over his cup at Elizabeth who also attempted to restrain her humour.

It did not take much longer for the rest to join them. Bingley sat next to Jane and spoke almost exclusively to her. Georgiana and Kitty sat quietly down and did not at first say much, but Kitty slowly but surely drew Georgiana out and soon enough the two girls were giggling to each other.

Darcy hated to be the one to destroy such a convivial atmosphere, but it was necessary. That document had to be found.

“Excuse me everyone, I think it is best if we decide how to arrange the search. We need to decide who will go where and with whom. It might be best if those who have not been here pair up with someone who knows the house somewhat. Also, Mrs. Reynolds, and my sister’s maid will help us.”

Georgiana spoke up, “Kitty and I can look in the Music room and Library if you like but we may need someone to help.”

Darcy nodded, “Richard could you help them?”

“Certainly.”

Bingley quickly interrupted, “I know a few of the rooms, so I know the basic layout since I have been here before. Miss Bennet and I could form another group.”

Everyone smiled at that maneuver. “All right, Miss Lands can join your group. That leaves . . .” He paused as he realized that left him with Miss Elizabeth, “Miss Elizabeth and I in the last group with Mrs. Reynolds. All right then, my group will take the study and the surrounding rooms, Bingley, you and Miss Bennet and Miss Lands will take the blue rooms. Shall we start?”

Everyone stood and split up into their respective groups.

Several hours passed and they regrouped for lunch with no success. After a brief meal, they returned to their search.

As the day wore on without success, Darcy found himself frustrated in more than one way. Naturally, he felt a degree of frustration over not finding that document; however, he could dismiss it easily enough as over-anxiousness. Yet, another item caused him some disruption to his part in the search. While she searched just has hard as anyone else and was careful not to misplace anything, Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s presence alone distracted him. He found himself looking in the same place only moments after he already searched there due to his mind wandering to Miss Elizabeth. He could not help but feel pleased that she was there and could see another side to him than what she saw in Hertfordshire the previous autumn1. Once or twice he caught her looking over at him and he began to wonder how much of his feelings and distraction showed. In the end, he could only hope that he had not revealed too much at the present time.

By that evening, nothing had turned up and no one had any idea where to look. They passed through dinner quietly, somewhat discouraged. However, a small ray of hope opened when Mrs. Reynolds mentioned a couple of locations the elder Mr. Darcy had frequented that they had not looked into. So, with the intention of searching those rooms the next day, all retired a little more cheerful than they had anticipated.

However, the next day proved equally unfruitful, each searched diligently, but no sign of the missing document was found. Each retired with less cheer than the evening prior. The next day followed this depressing pattern.

Finally, at the end of the third full day at Pemberley, Darcy retreated to the library while everyone else retired. Pacing back and forth he desperately tried to think of any other location that could have been used as a hiding place. An hour later, he felt his fatigue wearing on him and he laid down on the sofa in the room. He fell asleep as soon as his head touched the cushion.

This was how Elizabeth found him a couple of hours later, but he was not as peaceful as he first started out. His head tossed from side to side and he muttered words too low for her to make out. At first, she felt she should retreat to her room, but as she noticed how distressed he looked, she thought it best to awaken him. She could not stand to see someone struggle through even a nightmare when dealing with the concerns thrown upon them by an unkind relation.

She tiptoed over to him and reached out a hand and gently shook his shoulder. When he did not awaken, she bit her lip and shook his shoulder harder.

Darcy awoke suddenly breathing hard and taking a few moments to realize where he was and realizing that what he had been seeing a few moments before was only a dream and a long ago memory. His surprise however peaked when he saw Elizabeth standing before him looking a little self-conscious after she withdrew her hand.

“Miss Bennet, umm, ah . . . is there something you need?” Darcy mentally kicked himself wishing he could have said something better.

“I only came to borrow a book as I could not sleep. I hope you do not mind?”

“Of course not, you are perfectly welcome to borrow any book you want.”

“I would have only been a moment, but I saw you were having a nightmare and thought perhaps it would be better for you to be awake.”

“Yes, it is. Thank you, Miss Bennet. I can assure you that to evade that dream is very good indeed.” His sudden turn to melancholy caused her to wonder what could bother him so much.

“Sometimes when one of my sisters has had a bad dream, we talk about it. They generally feel better for it. Maybe if you talk about it you might feel better.”

When he looked up at her in surprise, she realized how it must have sounded.

“Oh, you do not have to tell me, but perhaps you might confide in your sister or your friend or Richard. I did not mean to imply myself. Umm . .. I shall go . . .I think . . .”

She turned quickly to leave when she felt him take hold of her hand. “Please, Miss Elizabeth, please stay. If you would be willing to listen that is, I would appreciate telling you about it.”

Looking back, she saw the slight hopefulness in his eyes and the troubled look from whatever distressed him behind it. She only nodded in response to his plea. Seeing her positive response, he released her hand and moved to one end of the sofa and motioned for her to take the seat next to him. Once she was seated, she watched him as he twisted his hands together while considering what he had to say.

“Five years ago, my father passed away4 . It was not easy on Georgiana or myself. Thankfully, Richard came to stay with us for a few weeks as did my Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam. Unfortunately, my Aunt Catherine joined us also. As the weeks passed after the funeral, I wondered how I could convince my Aunt to leave. She had been talking about how many changes her daughter would make when she became mistress of the house and how much she could be of help to my sister5 . She kept this up almost everyday starting a few short days after my father’s funeral. One day I even told her I had absolutely no intentions of marrying my cousin and never would. She exploded in anger. I have never seen her so enraged. Although I never changed my decision or implied that any change existed, I backed off from arguing with her and she returned to her plans. It was almost as if my refusal had never been stated, almost as if the argument had never happened.” Shaking his head in disbelief, he stared at his hands as he contemplated his inability to understand how that could have occurred.

He glanced over at Elizabeth whose eyes were wide, obviously at his Aunt’s audacity to behave in such a way so soon after his father’s death. “Why would she behave in such a manner when your father had just died?”

“My Aunt has never given up the hope of having some say in running Pemberley.”

“Not given up hope? Why would she even have hope in the first place?”

“You see, Miss Elizabeth, my father was a younger son. He had taken the living at Kympton and married my mother soon after that.”

He never noticed the surprised look on Elizabeth’s face at his mention of the living6 .

“It was through his marriage to my mother that my Uncle James Darcy met Lady Catherine. A few years later, they became engaged. It was during this time that I was born and Uncle James was named my Godfather. Lady Catherine was unhappy that she had not been named my Godmother instead of my Aunt Fitzwilliam, though it really should not have been a surprise as my mother and other aunt were much closer. Anyway, I digress, my uncle came to visit us often. About a month before his wedding was to take place, he was here at Pemberley taking care of some business and visiting us at Kympton. He went out one morning for a ride; however, something happened and he was found on the ground later. Apparently, he had fallen while riding and broken his neck. Lady Catherine was somewhat depressed, but she seemed more at a loss over losing Pemberley than my Uncle, according to my parents and Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam. After my Uncle died, my father became owner of Pemberley according to my grandfather’s will. You see the will was written in such a way that if Uncle James died without any children and unmarried, the estate would pass to my father. It was not really a surprise, but my Aunt was displeased over it.”

He sighed, “Barely a year later, she married Sir Louis de Bourgh who had wanted to marry her before her engagement to my Uncle. He was a very nice man. Actually, he was a bit like Bingley in some respects. However, my Aunt’s sudden marriage angered my parents because they felt she had not really cared for my uncle.”

He stopped when he felt Elizabeth’s hand on his. He looked up to see compassion in her eyes. “I am sorry your family had to endure that. It must have been so hard to take that kind of disregard for the loss of a loved one.”

“To be honest, I hardly remember much except that my favorite Uncle was no longer there and that my parents were so sad. I was pretty much kept from the trouble with my Aunt. However, that would not always last. Difficulties continued throughout the years, but after my father died came the real trouble.”

Here he took a shaky breath and Elizabeth could tell that this is where his dream came in.

“At one point, several weeks after the funeral, Richard and I went out riding, just to have a few minutes peace away from my Aunt. As we were coming back, we noticed my Aunt’s carriage out front. Well you can imagine our pleasure at the idea that she was finally leaving; however, it was short lived. We soon saw my sister dressed in traveling clothes in the doorway while my Aunt gave orders for my sister’s trunks to be placed in her carriage. You can imagine my fury over that. Richard and I galloped the rest of the way there and dismounted barely after our horses came to a halt. I ran over and grabbed my sister, pulling her away from my aunt. When I kneeled down in front of her she threw her arms around me and cried asking me why I wanted her to leave with our Aunt.”

His jaw tightened and his anger built as he recalled the event, but behind that Elizabeth saw the fear. Fear of losing the little sister he loved so much to a family member who did not care for her except for position and connection. Elizabeth squeezed his hand which she still held and he looked over at her and relaxed a little.

“Richard had already started to interrogate Lady Catherine by the time I had pulled my sister away. While I was trying to comfort Georgiana, I could hear very clearly the argument between Richard and my Aunt. It was at that point I could no longer restrain my temper and I turned my sister over to Mrs. Reynolds who took Georgiana to her rooms. I moved to my Aunt and asked what she was doing taking my sister without even informing me. She told me that I and my cousin were totally unsuitable to raise her as we were both unmarried young men and that my sister would be better off with her7 . She also claimed her experience as a mother to her own daughter8 .”

His expression matched Elizabeth’s in that this time their opinions were the same on that subject.

“As the argument wore on she became more angry and desperate to take Georgiana with her. Finally, I told her to leave, without my sister. She grew more furious and continued her verbal assault. However, Richard had enough of her behavior and told her that if she did not leave immediately he would pick her up and throw her in the carriage himself. She left immediately only sparing us a glare. It is why she has never returned to Pemberley.”

He fell silent at the end of his recounting of the event that caused his nightmare. It was not hard for Elizabeth to feel some empathy for the man next to her. She could not imagine how hard it must have been to lose a parent and then have someone attempt to take a sister away. Shaking her head, she felt goosebumps rise as she thought of how it might have been if someone had tried to take one of her sisters.

“That is why all this is so disturbing to you now. It reminds you of what happened then.”

“Yes, I fear my Aunt taking my sister. I know my father would not have wished it and am sure he made provisions if something were to happen either to myself or Richard so that she would not fall into my Aunt’s care. That is why I must find that document.”

“I am sure we will find it, but you must have patience. The house is so big, it could be anywhere. Besides, if your father intended that Lady Catherine not to find something of so much importance, might he not have picked some unusual place rather than where we have been looking?”

“Probably, I just wish I knew where that was.”

“Well, we will find it, I am certain of it.”

“I wish I could be as optimistic as you. Thank you, Miss Bennet, for listening to me. You were very kind to listen to my family’s troubles.”

“In a way our families are connected through Richard. Much of what you went through also concerns my brother, so I do not think it so much . . . umm . . .”

“Well, thank you again.”

Both fell silent unable to think of anything to say.

“I think I shall return to my room now.” Standing quickly, she hurried to the door only to stop at the sound of Mr. Darcy calling out.

“Miss Bennet, did you not want a book?”

She blushed and turned around, “Oh yes, I had forgotten.”

“What were you looking for?”

“Oh, nothing in particular. I had hoped to look a little and pick something out.”

“All right, may I help you in deciding on one?”

Hesitating for a moment, she bit her lip before replying, “Of course.”

They stayed only a few minutes longer until Elizabeth had chosen a book and then both returned to their rooms. Darcy felt a great deal better having related his concerns over his Aunt’s behavior past and present and Elizabeth fell asleep thinking about what he had related. She discovered she felt a little more than compassion. She felt she also began to understand him even if it was just a little.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 1
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 3
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 7-8, 10, 18; Volume 2 Chapter 5, 10, 12-13; Volume 3 Chapter 7, 12, 16-17.
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 12
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 16; Volume 2 Chapter 7
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 10
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 10 & 12
8) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 5&6

Chapter 27

Posted on Monday, 19 May 2008

On Sunday, everyone trooped into the breakfast room looking somewhat tired. Georgiana’s downcast expression and inability to hold conversation for any length of time revealed her despair to her companions. Seeing Jane, Bingley and Kitty occupied with cheering his young cousin, Richard directed his attention to Elizabeth. Noting her thoughtful behavior, he attempted to discover the cause only to be thwarted by her changing the subject. The last person to arrive for the second day in a row, Darcy quickly fixed his plate before taking a seat. Ever since his conversations with Elizabeth the previous night, he felt his confidence return and with it came a new found determination to search every inch of Pemberly if necessary. However, he resolved that as it was Sunday, everyone would rest and resume their search the following day. Thankfully, he had anticipated that the search would take many days despite his earlier hopes and had arranged for all of them to attend Sunday services.

After returning from the Church service, each person chose a different activity. Elizabeth and Richard left for a walk around the park. Kitty and Georgiana sat down to continue a Bible study the latter had been working on every Sunday. Darcy joined them soon after they started. This arrangement left Bingley and Jane together, a situation neither found disagreeable and happily engaged themselves in conversation.

Richard and Elizabeth enjoyed their walk with Elizabeth marveling in the natural beauty of the estate1 . She even talked with her brother about God’s planning in creating nature as it was. This led to his mentioning the old Chapel on the estate which was still in use by anyone who wished to use it. Seeing his sister’s curiosity, he offered to take her to it which she readily accepted.

The chapel was very nice; a quiet and peaceful place perfect for prayer and reflection. The windows on the one side allowed much natural light in. Elizabeth loved this room immediately. Soon, however, they were forced to return to the main party before anyone began to think they were lost.

After they rejoined the others, conversation began to flow until it came time to retire as everyone knew the long day that awaited them the next day.

Breakfast on Monday morning proved a more cheerful affair than the previous morning’s meal. The benefits of the previous days rest was exemplified in the smiles being traded back and forth as well as the laughter and lighthearted banter of those around the table.

Walking in with a determined stride, Darcy quickly fixed a plate and joined the others. As the meal progressed, he noted the apprehensive look on Bingley’s face. Following the direction of his friend’s nervous glances, he was not surprised to see the eldest Miss Bennet. Easily guessing what was on his friend’s mind, he raised an eyebrow. Shaking his head to himself, he silently wished his friend good luck and hoped Bingley would find an opportunity to propose and receive a positive answer soon.

So, soon after the meal, everyone split up into their groups. Darcy, Elizabeth and Mrs. Reynolds decided to return to the study and try again as it was the most likely of places to find the document and in hopes that they might have missed something. Richard, Kitty and Georgiana went into another wing that was hardly ever used since the elder Darcy’s passing away. That left Bingley, Jane and Miss Land to search in another group of hardly used rooms. They chose a sitting room that doubled as a library based on the number of books filling the bookshelves all along the walls. Earlier, Georgiana had told them that her grandfather had outfitted and designed the room for her grandmother upon their marriage due to her love of books. She added that it soon had become a favorite retreat for them.

All spent the day searching, only stopping for a brief lunch before returning. Bingley and Jane had not finished the first room they had started that day due to the number of books they had to look behind besides the general search.

About half an hour after they resumed, a knock sounded on the door and a maid entered. Curtseying to Bingley and Jane, she quickly turned to Miss Land and addressed her.

“I am sorry, but Miss Georgiana asked if you could come for only a couple of minutes as your help is needed.”

Frowning, she replied low enough as not to be heard by the lady and gentleman, “What happened?”

“Well, they had some tea with them in the room they were searching and a cup accidently was spilled . . .”

“I think I understand.” She bit her lip in uncertainty of what to do. Glancing at the couple she was obviously chaperoning, she debated only a couple of moments. Feeling that they were honorable, she allowed her concern for Miss Darcy to take over and she left.

As soon as the two maids had excused themselves and the door closed behind them, Bingley saw his opportunity. Standing and quickly moving closer to Miss Bennet, he swallowed his nervousness.

Jane glanced at him shyly and smiled before returning to her search.

“Umm, Miss Bennet, umm, Jane may I speak to you please?”

At hearing her Christian name, she turned to him surprised. Seeing the look on his face, she blushed and nodded hesitantly.

“Miss Bennet, for some time now, I . . . I have felt . . . I have . . . I care for you . . . very much. I know I was not right for leaving as I did. The only reason I can give is that I believed you did not care for me2 . I know that is not enough or even a good reason. I should have tried to determine your feelings for myself instead of running off as I did. However, let me assure you that I did not run off for purely selfish reasons. I feared making you miserable by giving you a possibly unwanted proposal. Yet, now I cannot . . . allow myself . . . to . . . well, let me just say that if I had truly felt that you might feel the same, nothing and no one, and I mean that sincerely, could have prevented me from returning2. Even now, I realized my error, that I wanted you to be apart of my life no matter what. Even if you can only care a very little, I would be happy and would do my level best to make you happy too. Miss Bennet, could you find it in your heart, to make me the happiest of men, by . . . becoming my wife?”

Jane stood silently, a little stunned. Her eyes had widened in shock when she learned of his uncertainty over her own feelings. Although she had felt her own uncertainties and doubts, she now looked into his face reading the same nervousness, but also that same glimmer of hope. Noticing his anxiety increase, she realized how long she had remained silent. Smiling brilliantly, she looked into his face.

“I would be honoured and overjoyed to become your wife.”

For a moment it was Bingley’s turn to be silenced; however, the smile that spread across his face spoke more than any words could of his happiness. He was so happy, he felt giddy. If he were not glued to the spot looking at his beloved Jane, he might have run across the room whooping for joy.

Instead, he settled for taking her hand and kissing it. “Oh, Jane you have made me so happy! I promise I will do everything in my power to make you the happiest person ever.”

Laughing she replied, “You have already made me as happy as I have ever been.”

He led her over to a settee where both indulged in a talk and the sheer delight of being in each other’s company and being newly engaged. They were interrupted a few short minutes later when they heard footsteps approaching. Both froze and listened waiting for the door to open or to hear a knock, but the footsteps passed by and continued down the corridor. When the sound was no longer heard, both let out a relieved laugh.

“Well, I suppose we had better continue looking for that document.” The disappointment in his voice was not missed by his fiancée who squeezed his hand, the same hand he had not let go of since he kissed it.

“As much as I would prefer otherwise, they are depending on us to help. Still, even being in each other’s company is a wonderful thing for me.”

Bingley kissed her hand again smiling at her, before standing and helping her stand, never releasing her hand until they were back at the book case.

“Now where were we?”

“We were at this section here . . .” They continued their search for less than an hour and had hardly covered more territory. Bingley found himself constantly distracted by watching his fiancée when she was not looking and Jane had the same difficulty. Thus, they did not move nearly as fast as they ought.

Frustrated with the amount of time their search was taking, Bingley decided to hurry things along so that he might spend a little time with Jane that evening after dinner.

As he approached the end of the sofa carrying a stack of books to reshelve, he did not notice the other stack of books just around the end as he rounded the corner. Tripping on the ones on the floor, he dropped the ones in his hands and flung his hand to the empty bookshelf to keep from falling. However, the bookshelf did not oblige his desire to stay upright and promptly flipped up in the back as his weight hit the front and slid out as he toppled to the floor.

As soon as she heard the commotion, Jane turned around just in time to see him fall.

“Charles!” Running across the room, she kneeled beside him as he was sitting up, pushing the bookshelf off of him.

“Are you all right?”

Rubbing his shoulder where the shelf had landed on him, he tried to smile, “Yes, I am fine, though my pride is not doing so well.”

She laughed slightly at his attempt at a lighthearted response, but still felt concern. “Is your arm all right, it seems to be bothering you?”

Liking the concern he saw she possessed for himself and taking it correctly as another sign that she truly cared for him, he smiled kindly, “Yes, it is fine, just a little sore but nothing to worry about.” Leaning over, he kissed her quickly on the cheek and grinned as she blushed.

They spent a few moments in silence before Jane broke the tension by standing and looking back at where the bookshelf had been. “I wonder why that happened? Oh, I see here the decorative facing on the shelf hid the wood slats that the shelf rested on. Now why would they make the shelf that way? I would think they would have fastened it in place.”

Bingley stood and held the shelf as he looked at the place it belonged and frowned, “I would have thought so too.” He reached back and pressed on the back, but it felt solid. Shaking his head, “It must only be the design.” He put the shelf back onto the slats and pushed it back in place, but when it hit the back, it did not sound like a solid wall.

“That is strange,” Bingley muttered.

“What is strange?”

“The back of this case sounded hollow instead of solid.” Both looked at each other thinking the exact same thing.

Reaching to the back, Bingley pushed on the back piece, but nothing happened. He tried several other locations, but still met with no success. He removed the shelf again and tried other spots to no avail. Frowning, he rubbed his chin while looking it over. Jane looked it over too and her brow puckered in thought.

“Would not it have been difficult to close if it pushed into the wall? Also, I do not think the space behind is very large as it does not sound very hollow.”

“You mean it might slide or have a secret latch instead?”

“Yes.”

“Hmmm . . . let me see . . .” Bingley reached back and tried moving it a little to the left, but without even a little movement. So, he moved to the other end and tried moving it to the right, but found it difficult without any place to grip, but he soon found it moved a little. Glancing back at Jane, he grinned. He kept pushing at the back of the case until it slid open enough he could put his fingers in and push it all the way to the right. Some dust poured out of the opening as he tried to reach in causing him to cough and back away for a moment. As the dust cleared, he reached in again and withdrew a stack of papers. Quickly taking them over to an end table he glanced through them, before finding the one he wanted. Without opening it, he turned to Jane, “I think we found it.” She smiled widely and they shared a brief moment of success, before Bingley continued.

“We should get this to Darcy, it will relieve his mind immensely.”

“Should we leave that panel open?”

“I will bring Darcy back here immediately because there are other documents in there too. I only brought out the top few. I do not think a few minutes will matter and he will want to know where it is anyway.”

Thus both were on their way. Arriving at the study, they entered and found no one there. Realizing they must have moved on, they quickly found one of the footmen and asked him where Mr. Darcy might be found. As soon as they learned of their new location, they hurried on. Once arriving at the room the others had moved to, Bingley did not wait to knock and just barged in.

“Darcy, I think we found it!”

Looking up from where he had been searching, Darcy stood up and all but ran across the room. Snatching the document from his friend’s hand, he looked it over. “This is it, thank you, where did you find it?”

“It was behind the books in your grandmother’s old library/sitting room.”

“Behind the books?”

“Yes. Why do you not come with me now and I will show you? There are other documents there besides.”

“Oh certainly, I would like to see it now, but I want to put this in the study first. I want to be off first thing tomorrow morning.”

As he left with Bingley following rather reluctantly behind, Elizabeth noted the look he threw Jane and her subsequent blush.

After Mrs. Reynold’s excused herself to see to preparing an earlier meal for Mr. Darcy and his guests as well as to arrange for their things to be packed that evening and all other preparations for their trip the next day, Elizabeth turned to her sister.

“Well, Jane, what is that blush for? And what does it have to do with Mr. Bingley?”

“Oh, Lizzy, he proposed! He proposed just this afternoon after Miss Land was called away.”

They spent the next little while talking to each other; Jane relating all details about the proposal and subsequent events and Elizabeth congratulating her sister2.

Finally, the two gentlemen rejoined them. Darcy’s whole manner was relieved and a smile lit up his face. Bingley looking extremely pleased to see Jane again walked right up to her and again took her hand and kissed it, but did not let it go as he stared into Jane’s eyes.

Darcy’s eyebrows reached for his hairline as he witnessed this event and he turned to Elizabeth whose eyes sparkled with delight. She nodded her answer to his unspoken question and he smiled happy for his friend and Miss Jane Bennet.

When neither seemed to notice that there was anyone else in the room, Darcy cleared his throat causing the happy couple to jump and blush.

“Oh, Darcy, I am sorry, we forgot. .err umm . . .”

“Is there something you would like to announce? or at least tell me as it seems Miss Elizabeth already knows.”

“Oh yes! Darcy, Miss Jane Bennet has made me the happiest man in agreeing to become my wife!”

His broad grin was contagious and Jane’s sweet but happy smile no less so. Darcy quickly congratulated his friend quite sincerely. No one noticed his brief glances at Elizabeth, not even the lady herself as she was so wrapped up in her sister’s happiness.

However, they were soon interrupted by Georgiana who entered and went straight to her brother. Richard and Kitty followed staying by the door quietly.

Georgiana looked up at her brother with hope in her eyes, “Has the document really been found?”

“Yes it has indeed, dearest. We will return tomorrow. Aunt Catherine cannot argue now. She can do nothing about this.” Leaning down he whispered in her ear, “I even found something else that I think will upset our Aunt, but make us pleased3.”

Eyes widening, Georgiana’s face lit up with a smile, “You mean you found out our parents wishes regarding your . . .”

Darcy’s nod cut off whatever else she was going to say, but her joy was so great that she threw her arms around him, “Oh brother, I am so happy and relieved! For once Aunt Catherine cannot do anything at all to us or make any more demands! 3&4”

It was only a moment before she realized just how many people were in the room and privy to her exclamations. She blushed and released her brother who only smiled and squeezed her shoulder in affection and reassurance.

She was relieved to see the smiles on everyone’s faces with not one look of censure to her over-exuberance. Richard’s smile relaxed her more as she was glad to have her cousin there too.

It was not long before the last three of the party were informed of Bingley and Jane’s happy news and all congratulated them. They adjourned to a sitting room until the early meal was ready. The meal was filled with conversation, although Bingley and Jane talked primarily to each other. When the meal ended, everyone left for their rooms to see that everything had been packed.

After quickly examining her trunks and seeing that little remained to be done, Elizabeth quickly donned her pelisse and bonnet and made for the nearest exit into the gardens. She regretted that she had had little time to explore on her own and planned to make use of the remaining daylight.

Wandering around a corner some time later, she practically walked right into Mr. Darcy.

“Oh, I beg your pardon.”

“That is quite all right, Miss Elizabeth.” After a moment’s pause and her blushing in embarrassment, Darcy continued, “How are you enjoying your walk?”

“Oh, very much so. Everything is so beautiful here1.”

“Thank you. Would . . . would you mind if I joined you?” She hesitated for a moment before inviting him to join her.

They continued on with Darcy pointing out areas of interest. Elizabeth was reminded of another walk not so long ago with her brother. While Darcy was not as open as Richard, she could see him being more open than usual. His concerted effort to be pleasant gained her respect1. As the sun started to dip behind the horizon, they returned to the house and joined the others in the music room. As they approached the room, they heard the sounds of the piano with off-key notes popping up followed by a loud grumble of frustration. Entering they saw Kitty at the piano with Georgiana and Richard in a nearby chair. Jane and Bingley were off to the other side of the room talking quietly.

Richard looked up and smiled, “We decided to try to give the lovebirds a little space. You may want to find someplace to sit on this side of the room as they are totally oblivious to anyone else but themselves at the moment.”

Both smiled and before Elizabeth could decide where to sit, she found herself being led to a settee by Mr. Darcy. Unable to find a way to join the main group without being rude, she took her seat and noticed Darcy taking the chair next to her. She tried to garner her brother’s attention so that he might join them, but he conveniently chose that moment to help Kitty on the Piano.

So, she found herself conversing solely with Mr. Darcy for another half an hour when she decided to retire to her room due to the early trip the next morning. She could see the disappointment in Mr. Darcy’s face, but she was not yet certain of her own feelings and did not wish to give any encouragement until she was certain. It was not that she did not respect or even like the gentleman, it was simply that she did not know how she regarded him. She did not think she loved him yet and did not want to hurt him if she could not return the feelings he obviously had for her.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 1
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 12; Volume 3 Chapter 13
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 16; Volume 2 Chapter 7; Volume 3 Chapter 14
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 6; Volume 3 Chapter 14 & 16

Chapter 28

Posted on Friday, 30 May 2008

The baggage was loaded, the food baskets prepared and the carriages readied, by the time all the passengers arrived downstairs, most still sleepy-eyed. The only one completely bright eyed was Bingley who immediately joined Jane and offered her his arm which she readily accepted. Elizabeth and Darcy, who although awake, were both still tired as neither had slept well. Finally, when the last three members of their group arrived, they boarded the carriages. Bingley immediately handed in Jane into the Fitzwilliam carraige and quickly followed. Richard quickly took Kitty’s arm and led her to the same carriage where he whispered quickly in her ear before handing her in and entering himself.

Although Georgiana felt some disappointment at lacking the company of her new friend, she did not fret over it long especially since her cousin had informed her of his intention as well as his reasons for them. Not only was she pleased to have Miss Elizabeth accompany them, but her own pleasure increased in the face of her brother’s obvious delight. Thus, she felt confident of an enjoyable journey and content in the sacrifice of a few hours travel with Kitty, if it meant her brother gained some happiness.

Elizabeth felt a little embarrassed to be left to travel with Darcy and his sister alone. She had thought she would travel with her sister and Bingley and Richard and Kitty would join the Darcy’s, but it did not happen. She even felt an inkling of anger and frustration with her brother for his surreptitious handling of the situation. She also felt a smidgeon sorry for the army having lost such a capable strategist.

Gracefully accepting Darcy’s hand, she entered the carriage, soon followed by his sister and then by himself. The gentleman seated himself next to Georgiana who sat opposite Elizabeth.

It was not long before the carriages set off. The journey began in silence until Georgiana asked if anyone would like some of the foodstuffs as no one had had any breakfast that morning. Both other occupants agreed and she opened the basket. She gave an excited exclamation as she pulled out some carrots. Darcy just shook his head, “My sister has loved carrots ever since she has had teeth. She will eat them at any time of day as much as she can get her hands on.”

Amused, Elizabeth turned to notice the slightly embarrassed look on the young lady’s face as she clutched the carrots in the one hand with the basket in her lap.

“No need to be embarrassed. I am the same with blueberries. I eat them whenever I can get them. In fact, I still eat some I pick from the wild patches in the woods near my home.”

Glancing at the gentleman, she noted the grin on his face and the effect it had on his whole countenance, especially the sparkle it added to his eyes. Grinning to herself, she turned to him in an impertinent manner, “Is there not something you particularly like as your sister likes carrots and I like blueberries, sir?”

Georgiana giggled as she saw his blush and his grin turn into embarrassment. Elizabeth raised an eyebrow, “It cannot be that bad, can it?”

“Oh yes it can!” His sister seemed unable to stop her giggles. “It is . . .”

“Georgiana!” Her brother interrupted looking mortified. “You would not tell her?”

“Why? You told her about my favorite.”

“Only by way of explaining your reaction.”

“So?”

“So what?”

“What does that matter?”

“It is a different situation.”

“It does not matter. Elizabeth even confessed her particular favorite, why not tell her yours?”

He remained silent and turned his face toward the window. “Alright, go ahead and tell her.” His voice showed his resignation. His sister grinned.

“Whenever he gets an opportunity, he goes off and eats a tomato.”

Elizabeth blinked, “A tomato? Well, that is nothing to be embarrassed about.”

“But that is not all!”

“What else is there?”

“He eats it like we would an apple.”

Feeling the corners of her mouth twitching upward, she looked over at Darcy. Seeing his obvious discomfort, Elizabeth decided to take pity on him all the while secreting that bit of information to tease him with at a more suitable time.

“Well, if you think that is bad, you will never guess what Jane likes?”

He raised an eyebrow at the sudden change in direction, but felt grateful that she thought enough of him to spare him further unease, “I would guess strawberries.”

Elizabeth shook her head. Georgiana guessed, “Raspberries?”

Again she shook her head. Darcy asked, “Cherries?”

“No.”

“Blackberries?”

“No.”

This continued on for a few minutes with Darcy and his sister taking turns guessing. They finally gave up on the fruits and switched to vegetables. Growing frustrated Darcy hazarded another guess, “Brussel sprouts?”

Giggling, Elizabeth shook her head.

Finally, Darcy and his sister looked at each other in defeat before he asked, “What is it?”

“Dill Pickles.”

Brother and sister looked at each other knowing neither would have guessed that.

“Dill Pickles? How did that come about?”

“Apparently, as a baby someone gave her a pickle and she started sucking on it and has liked them ever since. In fact, my Aunt Gardiner always brings her a jar whenever they come to visit. Actually, now that I think of it, all our relations bring her jars of pickles.”

They all laughed at that and spent the rest of the journey before the first stop trading food favorites of all their acquaintances. The Darcy’s learned that Sir William Lucas apparently adored hot peppers whenever he could acquire some and Mr. Collins liked onions. She also mentioned how her father was partial to corn on the cob and her mother had a weakness for radishes. Elizabeth was in turn treated to her brother’s favorite – horseradish. She laughed at their description of their Uncle Fitzwilliam’s preference for peas and Lady Fitzwilliam’s delight in cucumbers. Apparently, their cousin Charles Fitzwilliam favored pumpkins. All had a good laugh over Lady Catherine’s favorite – Brussel sprouts.

By the time they reached the first rest point, they were all laughing and enjoying themselves. Their joviality startled the other members of their party as they exited the other carriage. As they all walked toward the inn where they were to adjourn to a private dining area, the second group learned of what caused their laughter and joined in the lighthearted fun.

After a short meal, they re-entered the carriages and were on their way. The second half of the day’s journey passed in much the same manner with more lighthearted repartee.

The evening quickly approached and they stopped at the same inn they had stayed at on their earlier trip. All retired early again as they wished for an early departure.

The next morning came quickly and they continued on in the same groups as before with one exception. Kitty joined the Darcy carriage so that she and Georgiana could talk along the way. The journey proved uneventful and except for the girls chatter it also proved quiet for Darcy and Elizabeth. Both spent the time in a contemplative manner alternating between staring out the window, joining their sibling in conversation or attempting covert glances at each other when they thought the other not looking. However, the last one left each blushing when they attempted it at the same time.

Only a short break for lunch punctuated that day’s journey. Thus, it was late afternoon when they arrived at Longbourn where they were greeted immediately upon disembarking by large smiles on strained faces.

Lord Fitzwilliam turned to his nephew, “You are lucky; you just missed your Aunt.”

“Lady Catherine was here?”

This drew the attention of the rest of the party.

“Yes, she was here, making a nuisance of herself.”

“And all but declaring herself the victor in this disagreement,” added his much aggravated wife.

“And implying all sorts of negative insinuations about our family as well as making veiled threats to our continued stance in light of her challenge. Oooh, that woman is insufferable.” Mrs. Bennet stamped her foot in irritation and crossed her arms.

Jane immediately went over to her and put her arm around her, “Oh Mama, we should never have left you. If we had stayed, we could have supported you all.”

Her mother smiled weakly, “No, Jane. I was happy you were away so that you need not face this. It eased my mind to know you did not have to deal with Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s behavior while being useful in that search so that you were too busy to worry also.” It was at this point she noted Mr. Bingley’s glances at Jane with an indecisive expression. He clearly wanted to be with Jane, but at the same time, did not wish to interfere or be in the way when her family was obviously struggling through difficulties.

Turning back to her daughter, she asked with a mischievous smile similar to second daughter’s, “Jane dear, do you have some news for me?”

Jane blushed and nodded while glancing at Mr. Bingley.

“Well, then, we must be sure the gentleman has an opportunity to speak to Mr. Bennet before he returns to Netherfield1.”

“Mama, we understand that there is much to deal with yet. We can wait until a more appropriate time.”

“Nonsense, daughter. Your father will be pleased to speak to your young man. It will give him great satisfaction and delight especially with all the current difficulties. You would not deny him that, would you?”

“No, indeed.” Her expression showed her own pleasure at the prospect. Her mother nodded her approval and called out to the group.

“Well, now, you have all arrived and I know it is late, but I insist that you three, Mr. Bingley and Mr. and Miss Darcy join us for a light repast before you continue on to Netherfield Hall.”

“Oh, we could not possibly intrude and besides I should see my sisters. They will be expecting us.”

“Do not worry about that Mr. Bingley. I am sure they will understand the reason for your delay. Miss Bingley has been quite kind as to call on us while you were gone.” With that she turned into the house with Jane and the rest of her daughters in tow. Soon everyone else followed including Bingley and Darcy who were a little stunned at this new development.

The next hour passed agreeably and the travelers enjoyed Mrs. Bennet’s meal. The gentlemen adjourned to the study for a while to discuss all the changes in the past few days while the ladies did the same in the drawing room. When the gentlemen rejoined the ladies, they all noticed they were short Mr. Bennet and Mr. Bingley1. Mrs. Bennet smiled at Jane having been aware of this development since she had managed to mention the news to her husband.

Soon after, the door to the library opened and a beaming Mr. Bingley and a happy Mr. Bennet joined everyone in the drawing room1. After asking Jane to join him and Mr. Bingley, he announced their engagement to the whole room where it was met with applause and joyful congratulations from those who did not already know.

However, the happy couple were soon required to say their goodbyes as Mr. Bingley and the Darcy’s had to return to Netherfield.

After they left, the family spent a little time enjoying each other. Mr. Bennet was particularly amused at the argument that escalated between Elizabeth and Richard. Elizabeth berated him for his matchmaking and he complained how she and Kitty had left him alone with the lovebirds for a whole day in a stuffy carriage. She naturally responded that if he had not tried to play matchmaker, she would have been in his place. He only harrumphed and sat back and crossed his arms.

Seeing the glimmer in his eye in spite of his attempt to pull off a pout, Kitty teased him that he would have to help her practice on the piano if he continued to sulk. He promptly sat up and grabbed a book off a nearby table and pretended to be engrossed in it. However, this only drew the attention of yet another of his sisters, namely Mary, who cocked her head to one side and suggested that perhaps it would be easier to comprehend what he was reading if he turned the book right side up. Setting the book down, he threw his hands up in the air and declared that he was at his sister’s mercy as he heard snickers and laughter bubble up all over the room.

Despite this lighthearted teasing between family members and the joy in Jane’s countenance, it was clear that she as well as her sisters were tired from their journey and they soon retired. Richard did not stay up much longer as he too felt the fatigue from so many hours in a carriage.

As soon as they had left the room, the cheerful smiles on the occupants left behind vanished. They did not look forward to the events of the next week, as Lady Catherine had promised to return on Friday, only two days away.

Meanwhile, at Netherfield hall, Mr. Bingley was greeted by a rather enthusiastic Caroline.

“Charles it is so good for you to be home. I cannot wait to tell Louisa. You will never believe who had the gall to call here after your departure, Charles. Lady Catherine de Bourgh. You should have heard her. Her behavior was atrocious. 2” Here she turned briefly to Darcy and his sister, “I really pity the two of you having her for an Aunt. It must be quite a burden. Oh, but my manners! Please do come in and freshen up. There is food prepared on the sideboard if you would like any, but I understand you are probably not hungry after sampling some of Mrs. Bennet’s fare3. I must say she certainly knows how to make a guest feel welcome and the food is delicious.”

No one found a way to interject any comments due to the constant stream of words issuing from Caroline. However, it was not that that stunned the party. Rather, it was her friendliness, especially toward the Bennets. Neither knew how she was aware that they had stayed longer at Longbourn than simply dropping off the other members of their party.

Finally, when a brief lull in her speech appeared, Bingley interrupted. “Caroline, how did you know we ate at Longbourn?”

“Oh, Mrs. Bennet sent me a note and she also hinted that you have something to tell me. I guess it has something to do with your engagement?”

Bingley glanced at Darcy before nervously replying, “Yes, are you not upset?”

“Oh of course not, Charles. I admit up until very recently, I probably would have been very difficult and maybe even made a scene over it, but since I have gotten to know Fanny, I must say my opinions have taken a radical turn. Not to mention my anger already has a target – a very annoying woman who continues to insult me every time she comes here which is almost everyday. Hmph.”

“Who is Fanny?”

“Mrs. Bennet, of course. I am sure she told you I called on her while you were away. I found her quite the hostess and . . . oh, I wanted to tell you. Do you know who she reminds me of? No? Aunt Beatrice. Remember her, Charles? I remember how I used to look forward to her visits as a girl, she was always so kind.” She stopped for a moment and glanced at the looks on their faces.

“Here I am babbling on and you all have only just arrived back. Please refresh yourselves and if you need me, I will be in the drawing room. Louisa and Hurst are in there too.”

With that, she breezed off leaving a stunned trio in the hallway.

Bingley leaned over to whisper to Darcy, “You know, Darcy, I do not know if I like her this way or the way she was before. To be honest, she is a little disconcerting this way.”

“I could not agree more.” Darcy answered before leading his sister to the stairs to retire to their rooms. Bingley soon followed after shaking off his daze only to fall into another one upon thinking of his beloved fiancée.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 13
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 14
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13

Chapter 29

Posted on Tuesday, 3 June 200

Thursday passed with the parties of Netherfield and Longbourn together at the latter estate. Both were happy to be together. Feeling a good deal of disappointment at not being able to spend much time with Elizabeth, Darcy took comfort in the work he, his uncle and Mr. Gray were accomplishing while sorting through the details of the documents he had brought back from Pemberley. By the end of the dissection, they were satisfied that Lady Catherine could not remove Georgiana from their care, even if Richard did lose guardianship rights on a technicality1 .

Bingley, on the other hand, spent as much time as he could with Jane or in being useful to the Bennet family in whatever he might be asked to do. He also observed his sister’s interaction with them, and found her to be sincere in her compliments and active in conversation.

By the time late afternoon arrived, they were all enjoying a little tea and conversation when someone noticed a figure walking up the drive. The figure was soon identified as Charlotte Collins.

None were as surprised as Elizabeth who, although happy to see her friend, wondered why she would risk Lady Catherine’s ire by calling on them.

She was soon to discover the reason when, after greeting everyone politely and kindly, Charlotte asked if she might speak to Elizabeth alone. So, the two retreated to the garden as soon as Elizabeth retrieved her pelisse and bonnet.

After walking for a few minutes, conversing idly over polite questions on everyone’s health and the flowers in the garden, Mrs. Collins directed them to a nearby bench.

Elizabeth sat watching her friend shift nervously. Her concern for her friend grew and anger built toward Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins certain that they were the cause of her friend’s unease.

Finally, Charlotte turned to her. “Elizabeth, I know what I am about to ask . . . is quite an arrogant assumption and is unkind of me to ask for it, but I feel no other alternative could solve both our problems.”

“What is it, Charlotte? You know I would do anything I could for you.”

“I know, and that is partly why I am here.” She paused as she put together how to phrase her request, “Might you or your brother ask the Earl if he might find another living for my husband2?”

Elizabeth blinked. That had not been a request she had foreseen. “Why, Charlotte? Has Lady Catherine been unkind to you because of this situation3?”

“Well,” Charlotte hesitated before continuing, “our life has become much more difficult. Mr. Collins never usually considers going against her, but even he has felt some remorse over this. I was actually surprised to hear him question the necessity and appropriateness of questioning the veracity of Colonel Fitzwilliam being the true heir to the degree Lady Catherine insisted on. Yes, my husband did doubt the authenticity and legitimacy of the report and planned to come and question your family personally. However, he had not thought of taking legal action until he had at least checked into it first. I actually thought he might let it all go and let the matter drop until I heard Lady Catherine threaten to take away the Hunsford Living should he not pursue her choice2. Even if she did not go through with the threat, she can and has made our lives very difficult. Still, I think he might have defied her this one time, if it were not for the baby.” Charlotte began to cry a little here obviously overcome by the stress of the passed while.

The shock over hearing so many surprising things caused Elizabeth to remain momentarily silenced until the final statement made its way through her now muddled mind.

“Charlotte, you mean to say that you are expecting?”

“Yes. I had not been feeling well and between the doctor my husband called and my mother, it was confirmed. You would have been surprised at Mr. Collins reaction, Lizzy. He was unable to speak a word for a full five minutes before a smile stretched across his face. I had never expected him to be so doting.” A slight smile crossed her face.

Although Elizabeth had a hard time picturing her cousin acting the doting husband and father-to-be, she was happy for her friend.

“Congratulations! Your family must be thrilled with the news.”

“They are indeed, and if it were not for Lady Catherine’s presence at Lucas Lodge I am sure they would show it more than they presently can. Lady Catherine has veritably taken over their home and my parents do not know how to ask her to leave without jeopardizing my husband’s living2. That brings me to what I asked earlier. If the Earl could see his way clear to at least recommend my husband to some other vacant living, and my husband be able to get it, then my husband will no longer support Lady Catherine’s challenge. Without him, her challenge is nothing as she has no part in the matters of Longbourn. My husband is only obeying her at present for my and the baby’s sake for he wants to ensure we have a home as well as my good health and well-being. He fears the stress of the situation or of Lady Catherine’s ire may have some undue effects on my condition.”

“Charlotte, you come with so much good news. I am sure the Earl will be willing to help. Let us go and speak with him now!”

“Good and let me tell you how happy I was to hear that you regained the brother you never knew you had. I have to admit that learning it was Colonel Fitzwilliam came as a bit of a surprise.”

“Indeed, it was for us as well, but Charlotte, this development has caused you immeasurable amounts of trouble.”

“I hold no resentment over this, Lizzy. How could I when it brings such joy to my friend? Anyway, I knew my situation when I married and do not regret it. Besides, it gives me more fodder to tease you about. As Colonel Fitzwilliam is now your brother that must mean that you see a great deal more of Mr. Darcy4.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes, “Charlotte, not again!”

Charlotte grinned. “I also heard that you and your sisters traveled to Pemberley a short while ago along with your brother, Mr. and Miss Darcy and Mr. Bingley.”

Pursing her lips, Elizabeth remained silent. Charlotte laughed, “Oh Lizzy, you do like him do you not?”

“Of course I like my brother, I liked him before I knew he was my brother, you should remember that.”

“Stop being deliberately obtuse, you know I meant Mr. Darcy.”

“I know no such thing.”

Charlotte heaved a sigh, “Very well, I will leave that subject alone for now since you are determined to be stubborn, but I will not be surprised to hear of an engagement between the two of you. But tell me, Jane must at least be engaged by now. I am sure that Mr. Bingley would not have wasted the opportunity to propose that must have come up while traveling to and from Pemberley5.”

Despite her annoyance with her friend’s assurances, Elizabeth was pleased to tell her about her sister.

“Oh yes, Jane is engaged to Mr. Bingley5! They are so happy you can hardly believe it. My brother keeps teasing them on occasion, though much to their annoyance. Although they have only been engaged a few short days, whenever they suggest a walk even if it is only a stroll in the garden, Richard invites himself as chaperone. It is very funny because both Jane and Mr. Bingley have taken to grabbing the arm of which ever sister is nearest to have them come to distract Richard.”

“I did not realize that Colonel Fitzwilliam . . . err should I say Colonel Bennet?”

“Actually neither, he resigned his commission and we have not yet resolved on what he will be called. It might just be Mr. Richard Bennet or might be Mr. Richard Bennet-Fitzwilliam. I think Richard will choose the latter because he wants to include his other parents too.”

“That would be nice although Bennet-Fitzwilliam is a bit of a mouthful. His poor children someday.” She shook her head. “Well, could we go speak to Lord Fitzwilliam now? I will not be at complete ease until everything is settled and if there is anything he can do, it will help immensely.”

“Certainly.” They walked in arm in arm as they were used to. When they returned to the drawing room, Elizabeth asked her father for the use of his library and asked the Earl if he would join her and Charlotte. Surprised, he agreed and followed them in. Once there, he listened intently to Charlotte’s request and nodded thoughtfully. He also smiled and congratulated her when he learned of her expecting which they only mentioned due to the effect it had on her husband’s behavior.

“As it just happens, I had a letter awhile ago from an old friend of mine, the Earl of ______. He has an estate up in Cumberland. Recently, the living on his estate became vacant. I will write him a letter inquiring if the position is still open immediately. Last I heard, he was still in London, so it should not take long to receive a reply.”

“Oh, thank you so much, sir.”

“No need to thank me. It is I who must apologize to you for my sister’s treatment of you and your husband.”

“You have no reason to apologize as you are not responsible for her behavior. I know you have tried to reason with her and she will not be reasoned with. The only recourse we all have is to find other solutions to our problems and then cut discourse with her for she will not relent until she has had her own way6.”

“Thank you for your kindness and your analysis of Catherine is quite correct. Might I have your permission to tell him everything you just told me? It will sway his decision the more if he hears of it although his decision will be made as soon as he hears of my sister’s actions in the matter. He does not like her.”

They all grinned. It seemed few people liked Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

“Please, tell him all you feel necessary. I am heartily grateful for your willingness to help.”

“Your welcome.”

After this, Charlotte declined an invitation to stay for tea as she wanted to return home before Lady Catherine returned to the Lodge. She also declined the use of the carriage with a laugh saying that she would prefer to walk as long as she could.

It was not long after her departure that the Earl dispatched his letter.

That evening everyone waited with bated breath for the response.

While everyone paced, or chose some activity to distract themselves from the nerve-wracking wait, Elizabeth slipped out to the garden while there was still sunlight left to illuminate the paths. She desperately needed time alone. She walked around and around the paths letting her mind wander through everything that had happened since the previous autumn.

Startled out of her reverie, she turned to face the person who interrupted her. Jane approached quietly, “I knew I would find you out here. You have been somewhat reticent in sharing your thoughts lately. Can you not tell me what troubles you?”

Elizabeth looked away debating whether she wanted to tell Jane, the sister in whom she had always confided everything. Finally, the long time bond they shared won out.

“I think I care for Mr. Darcy.”

“You think? Do you not know?”

“That is just it Jane. Every time I think I know, along comes our brother or Charlotte or someone who tries to insist Mr. Darcy and I would make a perfect couple.”

“Well, if you do love Mr. Darcy, would you not want to be a perfect couple?”

“That is not the point. With all this pressure created by the self-appointed matchmakers, I can not decide for myself. I cannot be sure I truly care for the gentleman, or simply giving into the desires of friends and family. Jane, I wish I could have some time to choose for myself. I do not want to be pressured into a match.”

“But you withstood the pressure to marry our cousin7.”.”

“That is different. I knew I could never care for our cousin.”

“I understand what you are saying, but perhaps Richard does not. After all, he and Mr. Darcy have been close since they were children. He probably knows what Mr. Darcy’s feelings for you are and thinks he knows enough of you to know that the two of you would be very happy together. Perhaps, if you told him that his interference is only frustrating you, he might desist.”

“You think so, Jane? He has not responded to my request to stop pestering me or to my annoyance with his activities.”

“Perhaps he assumes you are simply being stubborn. I think if you sat down and told him exactly what you told me, he would stop. I know we cannot stop every matchmaker, but I think we can silence the most persistent one by talking to him.”

“That would be a vast improvement.”

Both looked around as the sky suddenly darkened a bit and both noticed that the sun was nearly down.

“Shall we return to the house then?”

“Of course sister dear.”

They walked arm in arm back toward the house. When they were almost to the door, Elizabeth grinned with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, “Perhaps we might consider giving Richard a taste of his own medicine. I know several young ladies who were quite interested in our dear brother and I am sure one of them would make him a splendid wife.”

“Lizzy!”

On Friday morning, while they were all at breakfast, an express arrived for the Earl. Opening it, he smiled and held it up for all to see.

“My friend is eager to help and will provide the living on his estate for Mr. Collins.”

The room was filled with expressions of gratitude, relief and pleasure. “That means that Lady Catherine’s challenge is over.”

“Indeed. All we have to do is make the offer to Mr. Collins which I am sure from his wife’s description, he will accept. The only difficulty we face with finishing that is my sister’s fury over being outdone. She will likely be insulting and make some threats.”

Kitty looked up, “If that is the case, might she not order our Cousin’s belongings thrown out of the Parsonage as soon as she learns he has deserted her cause?”

“My friend has already taken that into account and has already started arranging for their belongings to be moved. All he will wait for is Mr. Collins’ acceptance. So, by the time my sister can make her orders known, their possessions should be well on the way to Cumberland.”

Everyone grinned at that and imagined the rage Lady Catherine would be in after discovering that she had been bested on so many fronts3&6.

Mr. Bennet was the first to return to solemnity, “We must prepare for some of that explosion this very afternoon. Is there not someway to inform the Collins’ before Lady Catherine arrives?”

“I do not know. Apparently, Lady Catherine has taken over Lucas Lodge and no one can come or leave without her knowledge. I could try to walk over there, but it might cause a disturbance even before this afternoon’s one.”

“Well, Lizzy, try to go there, but stay out of sight. If you see one of the Collins’ or Maria or Sir William or Lady Lucas, try to get their attention and tell them, if not, come home.”

“Yes, Papa.” She stood to leave when her brother stood up also.

“I think I will go with her, just in case Lady Catherine catches sight of her. She should not have to face her alone.”

Mr. Bennet just nodded and the two left.

They walked silently most of the way; talking only a little on various subjects. Just as they were to turn off the main road in the direction of Lucas Lodge, they met Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley on horseback8.

The two gentlemen immediately dismounted and greeted them.

Bingley smiled broadly, “Good morning Miss Bennet, Colonel Fitz . . . errr . . . Mr. Ben . . .errr . . .”

“Like I said, stick to Colonel Fitzwilliam for now. We will let you and everyone else know when we decide what I should be called.”

“Oh, all right. Ah . . . is Jane still at home?”

“Yes, and I am sure she will be happy to see you.”

“Oh, good.” He went back to his horse and before getting in the saddle, he turned to his friend, “Darcy are you coming?”

“No, go on ahead and I will catch up later.”

Bingley grinned at him before mounting and riding off.

Finally able to get a word in edgewise with his rather vocal friend gone, he addressed his cousin and Elizabeth.

“I hope you are both well.”

“Indeed we are.”

“Has any word arrived from my Uncle’s friend?”

Intent on watching the other two interact, Richard only nodded while Elizabeth replied.

“Yes there has. He will give my cousin the living on his estate. We are on our way now to tell them if we can avoid Lady Catherine that is. If we cannot speak to them without her knowledge, we will have to go home.”

Looking thoughtful for a moment, Darcy tipped his head as he considered their predicament. Nodding to himself slowly as an idea came to him, he straightened and looked right at Elizabeth and Richard, “I will come with you and distract my Aunt.”

Brother and sister looked at each other in surprise and alarm on the behalf of the gentleman.

“Darcy, you know she will be difficult at best and will most likely insult you when you do not agree with her.”

“I know, but I have endured her behavior before and I am certain I can handle it one more time especially for such a cause as this. If I go, she will be so preoccupied in yelling at me for not cooperating with her that she will never know about your conversation with the Collins’ if you are quick.”

“Mr. Darcy, I do not know how to thank you for this kindness. You are too generous to us to willingly endure such unkindness from a relative for our sakes.”

Darcy wanted to tell her he would endure anything for her sake, but remained silent instead.

They walked silently down the lane until they could see part of the house around the bend. Darcy stopped them with a quiet word and a motion of the hand.

“Let me go in first, and then follow about five minutes later. I should be able to have gained my Aunt’s attention by then if not her ire.” He got back in the saddle and rode the last little bit up to the house where he dismounted and entered.

Shortly after he entered, Maria came out and started walking toward the bend, but turned and went over to a set of benches by a group of trees where it would be difficult to observe any conversation from the house.

Richard and Elizabeth quickly hurried over to her and were shocked at the tired and yet fearful expression on her face.

“Miss Lucas are you all right?”

She smiled wanly at Richard, “Yes, I am well although it has been a nightmare since Lady Catherine installed herself here. Anyway that does not matter. Mr. Darcy mentioned you both were nearby in passing. It is a good thing he did as Lady Catherine hardly lets my sister and Mr. Collins out of her sight. They are in there with her right now.”

They all heard a noise that sounded like shouting come from the building.

“You had best tell me your news quickly. I do not think Mr. Darcy can distract her long.”

Elizabeth nodded, “Tell my cousin that the position is his if he wants it. In fact, the Earl of ____ has already arranged for their possessions to be moved from the parsonage at Hunsford as soon as he receives Mr. Collins’ acceptance.”

Her eyes widened, “Really? He must be very kind to give the living to someone he never met. . .”

Another burst of shouting interrupted her, “You had best get out of sight around the bend. I will be sure to pass your message on.” With that, she ran back to the house.

After retreating down the lane a bit, Richard and Elizabeth waited for a full ten minutes before a beleaguered Darcy joined them. His face was taut with tension, but he otherwise appeared calm.

“Did you manage to speak to Miss Lucas? Neither Mr. or Mrs. Collins could escape as my Aunt required their presence.”

“Yes, we spoke to her and she promised to pass our message on, but how are you doing after that confrontation?”

“Surprisingly well Miss Bennet. Knowing now what I do, I have little to nothing to fear from her.”

“Good.”

Seeing that Elizabeth was not going to say anything more, Richard spoke up, “Darcy will you accompany us back to Longbourn. I am sure the family will be happy to see you as much as they are already enjoying Bingley’s presence. Though I should say how much Jane and Bingley are enjoying each other’s presence.”

All three laughed and they returned to Longbourn in higher spirits.

References:
1) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 10 & 12
2) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 13-15
3) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 18
4) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 2 Chapter 7
5) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 13
6) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 3 Chapter 14 &19
7) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 19 & 20
8) Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Volume 1 Chapter 5; Volume 3 Chapter 16

Continued In Next Section