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Chapter 1 - Conversations

“This is a quaint county, is it not?” inquired the young man on a magnificent chestnut mount.

“Holdsworth, you are entirely too pompous for your own good!” exclaimed his companion, riding it must be noted, a much less impressive animal.

“Just because you stand to inherit the majority of –shire, does not mean the rest of the world deficient!” proclaimed the third young man.

“Come now, I was simply saying that this Hertfordshire is a comfortable looking place. You two need not keep up the pretense of taking offense,” Holdsworth replied.

“Yes, yes, but it is so much more entertaining to make you uncomfortable. You know it is our favorite pastime. Besides, what else have Howe and I to do while holding court around you?”

“You are right, my dear Mr. Brooke. It is our responsibility to ensure that the future Lord of --- maintains a sense of humility and virtue. For what else do we exist?” questioned Howe.

“Are you two quite finished?” the rather embarrassed Holdsworth asked.

“No!” was the reply from each of his companions.

At that, Holdsworth took full advantage of his fine mount’s skills and charged off. His two companions glanced at each other and while indulging in a brief chuckle, began to follow their dear friend.

From a distance, these three seemed an odd grouping. Holdsworth looked every inch the future Lord. His tall stature, dashing figure, and intense eyes made an imposing man. However, as his close friends, such as Howe and Brooke, knew that he was a private, sensitive individual. The pressures of being a future Lord were such that he bore with a resigned nature. More disposed to reading, quiet discussions, and serving others in unseen ways, Holdsworth at a tender age of twenty three shied away from the pressures of the Ton and chaos of London.

Of the three, Howe was the adventurous one. Always ready for a challenge, he was the one who found the opportunities for trouble while the three attended Cambridge together. An aspiring diplomat or politician, he did not yet have a strong preference, he knew he would succeed as only one with great charm and a penchant for persuasiveness could.

The last, Brooke, was unlike the others. Neither the elder son of a Lord nor younger son of a gentleman with modest estate, Brooke needed to make his own way in the world. Growing up he had been fortunate to be befriended by a very wealthy man who saw Brooke’s goodness and intelligence as something to be cultivated. As Brooke’s father served this man loyally for years as a solicitor, an interest in the boy’s keen intelligence was long noted. Accordingly, his patron encouraged his education and sponsored his years at Cambridge. Destined to soon take orders, Brooke was enjoying a brief holiday with his friends.

As the three were cantering down the quiet country lane and enjoying the fresh air, they failed to notice an impending accident. A nail was working loose in the horse’s shoe that Brooke was riding. Before the trio had gone but a mile, the horse fully threw the shoe and his rider. In a very undignified manner, Brooke found himself in the dirt along the road. His companions quickly came about to ascertain what the problem was.

“Can’t manage your horse there, Brooke?” the impertinent Howe suggested.

No immediate response came from the young man in the ditch. Since Brooke was just as quick-witted as his friend, this was the first signal that something was seriously amiss.

“Bingley has found himself in quite the situation,” stated a fairly young, average sort of military man.

“Yes, it is no small responsibility to raise a child. I know only too well…”

“Darcy, perhaps it would be good for both of us to join him in the country. We know what it is like to be guardian to a child. I have leave from the general for some time now. Between little Benjamin and a country estate, I know Bingley would greatly appreciate your guidance,” the Colonel continued.

“I agree. However, I must first go to Pemberley. There are some matters there requiring my immediate attention. If I spend a week or two on estate matters, I believe I may well be able to spend several months away with Bingley,” Darcy decided.

“Very well. After breakfast tomorrow, let us call on Bingley. He has returned to his townhouse, I believe.”

“According to the letter I received a day ago, I would agree. However, you know his writing style. He very well may have written something else entirely. There are more spills of ink in his letters than legible passages!” the normally reticent Darcy shared a brief moment of humor.

With that, the business of the call was completed; following a brief chat of current events, Colonel Fitzwilliam left his cousin’s home to return to his lodgings near the General. Darcy in turn, left the library in search of his sister.

With little surprise, he found her in the music room with her companion Mrs. Annesley. Georgiana was playing the pianoforte while Mrs. Annesley read near the window. Once she concluded her piece, her brother spoke.

“That was wonderful, Georgiana. Do you have a moment to spare for your brother?”

“Of course. Is something the matter, Fitzwilliam?” the young girl replied.

“No, but I would like to speak with you and Mrs. Annesley. It concerns Mr. Bingley.”
At that, Georgiana took a seat. Her brother chose to remain standing; he often did when he wished to remain focused. Mrs. Annesley chose the seat next to her charge.
“Bingley has found himself the guardian of his young cousin, Benjamin. Apparently the boy’s parents died just a brief time ago. With no other living relatives, Bingley now has sole responsibility of the boy.”

“Oh, the poor child!” declared Mrs. Annesley. “What he must be feeling!”

“Yes, Bingley is worried that the society of London and the confinement of a townhouse will not help the boy. Thus, Bingley has leased an estate in Hertfordshire, a Netherfield Hall. He plans on taking up residence there immediately and has invited us to join him.”

“Oh brother, you know how I love the country. Could we please go?” Georgiana shyly asked.

“I am pleased you are interested. Bingley also thought you might be helpful with Benjamin. Mrs. Annesley, would you be willing to join the party for Netherfield? I have to return to Pemberley for a brief period, but plan on following only a fortnight after. At that point, perhaps you would like to take leave to see your daughter? You had mentioned she is expecting her first child and I thought you might want to be with her.”

“Mr. Darcy, that is an excellent plan. I would be happy to join the party at Netherfield. Perhaps I too may help the boy. My daughter has some time yet before her child is expected, so the timing for my departure will be excellent. Thank you for your consideration,” the trusted woman replied.

“So it is decided. Georgiana, you will travel with Mrs. Annesley and Fitzwilliam in a few days and I will follow soon after the business at Pemberley is concluded.”

“Benjamin, how do you like your new room?”

“I like blue, but where is Edgar?” lisped the young boy of six.

“Edgar has the place of honor on your rocking horse. See, he is right here.” Bingley pointed out his young cousin’s toy dog.

Benjamin took Edgar in his arms and clasped the dog to his chest with all the strength he had. This small toy was all he had left of his past. As his cousin Charles tucked him into the bed with the blue covers, he seemed to withdraw again.

Charles wished the boy sweet dreams and extinguished the candle. As he walked down the hall towards the staircases memories of his own parents’ deaths came back as did the inevitable anguish. While Bingley was much older than Benjamin upon his parents’ deaths, he still knew the pain of that unique loss. Knowing the sudden addition of a child to his household would change his life, little did Charles know the full depth and breadth of those changes awaiting him.

“Oh, Papa, perhaps you spoke too hastily. I fear for your nerves now.” Lizzy announced as she entered her father’s library.

“My dear, I am not now, nor shall I ever be afflicted by any nerves lest they be your Mother’s.”

“That may be, however, from the news Mama, Lydia, and Charlotte have told me, you will soon be quite busy,” was the equally coy reply.

“And why might that be?” inquired Mr. Bennet.

“Was it not just a few days ago you consoled Mama that when there were twenty young men of four or five thousand a year come into the neighborhood you would visit them all?”

If this were any other female resident of Longbourn, excepting perhaps Jane or Hill, Mr. Bennet long would have returned to the newspaper he was reading upon Lizzy’s entrance to his sanctuary. As it was, his Lizzy, the second of his five daughters had his attention. Perhaps this would be the only time Mr. Bennet cared what the gossips of Meryton bandied about. His distaste was quite strong despite of, or perhaps because of, his wife’s leading role among those gossips.

“Yes, yes,” Mr. Bennet dismissed.

“Well, I hope that you are at your leisure as there are now at last count, twenty such men in the neighborhood,” Miss Bennet informed her father.

“Now Lizzy, perhaps you best go spin this tale for your mother. This fable is much more in her realm of interest than mine. You would have her in raptures for the remaining of the day.”

In exasperation Lizzy sighed, “Father…”

After nearly twenty one years as Elizabeth’s father, he knew that the title of Father was only applied when she was in trouble, mostly as a child, or when she was frustrated with him, now when she was no long said child. Thus, Elizabeth now had Mr. Bennet’s full attention, if not belief in her declaration.

“Am I to believe that there are at least twenty young men of fortune now in our midst?” Mr. Bennet asked in disbelief assured of its position.

“Yes, Papa. Well, nearly twenty.”

“Who?” he enquired, desperately hoping it was not so. What flutters and palpitations Mrs. Bennet would fly into once she came to this realization. “Perhaps she will not be able to count that high…” Mr. Bennet thought rather unkindly to himself.

“Let me see. As Mama said, Netherfield is let to a Mr. Bingley. With him are several gentlemen soon to come. After her visit with Aunt Phillips this morning Mama said with Mr. Bingley are a Mr. Darcy, a Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Hurst, and Mr. Bingley’s young cousin, heir to his parents’ fortune. Charlotte informed me on our walk yesterday morning that there is a party of several gentlemen, eight apparently, that have come into Hertfordshire for a quiet hunting party before returning to London shortly. Lydia returned from her walk to Meryton with the news that the Militia has come and with it the usual officers. The Colonel, Forster, I believe, is unmarried and comfortable in addition to the rumor that at least four of the other officers will have upon reaching a particular age, a fortune of four or five thousand. Apparently the most notable are Denny, Saunders, and a Mr. Wickham. Added to this are the three young men stranded at the Inn due to an accident. One is reportedly a future Lord.” Lizzy patiently waited as her father digested this litany of names and situations.

“Lizzy, you have not spun such a yarn since you were climbing trees as a girl and tore your dress. I believe you blamed that on a rouge pirate. This story is no more believable.” Mr. Bennet admonished. He began mentally listing all the inconsistencies in her story. Why would such wealthy gentlemen choose their neighborhood? Why would young men who could afford otherwise join the militia? Why would fate thus torture him? This was simply too much to believe, it must not be true.

“Father, this is all true.” Elizabeth concluded and in consternation, left her father as she found him.

Twenty such men of fortune found themselves in the small communities of Hertfordshire. Such a summer as this the families of the neighborhood would likely never again encounter.

My dear reader, before you throw your hands up in disbelief that this humble author will attempt to weave a story of twenty young men and their exploits in the small burgh in Hertfordshire, I beg you indulgence. You likely can guess which of these said gentlemen will most concern us in this story. As for the others, I regret to say their stories must be told elsewhere. Indeed, as we soon shall see, just those located a mere three miles from Longbourn will provide enough excitement to keep Mrs. Bennet and her nerves occupied for weeks. Perhaps those at the Inn will have a part to play, but that will soon be discovered.

As Mr. Bennet sat slowly mulling the words of his Lizzy as truth, other mamas throughout the neighborhood began to do the same calculations Elizabeth made. The summation came to be simply that there was an unusual abundance of good fortune for all eligible ladies in the neighborhood. In fact, there was nearly an eligible young man for each family as the Bennets dined with four and twenty other families.

After leaving her father, Elizabeth returned to the sitting room where her sisters and mother gathered after breakfast.

“Miss Lucas is here mum,” announced Hill.

As Charlotte Lucas entered, Elizabeth rose to meet her dearest friend.

“Charlotte, would you care to join me on a walk? The weather is exceptionally fine this morning.”

“Of course, Elizabeth,” replied Charlotte.

“Mama, you do not mind if we leave you?” Elizabeth asked, more of formality than truly seeking permission.

“No, no child. However, do not scamper about the country like a wild thing. You do not know how you try my nerves!”

Charlotte and Elizabeth made good their escape so they could converse in private.

“Well, Lizzy, what do you think of all the news?”

“When I told my father he thought I was telling tales. Remember my pirate attack as a girl? He compared it to that!”

Charlotte laughed as she replied, “Yes, I do recall that you were determined to blame your torn muslin on the rouge pirate hiding in the copse behind Longbourn. I understand that the hunting party’s stay though will be of short duration and, according to my father, they have no intention of entering into society. Contrary to initial reports, several of the gentlemen are already married or a bit too old even for our match-making mamas to consider.”

“Thank goodness, though I do not doubt my mother’s quest to find us all good matches,” Elizabeth thought out loud.

The two continued their walk occasionally chatting or just enjoying the companionable silence that a life-long friendship affords.

Chapter 2 – Of Expectations

Two weeks later brought the country community of Meryton together for the assembly. Such interest had not been found in the simple rustic gathering since … well since long before this humble authoress can recall. Every young lady took extra consideration that evening in her preparations. Every matron mentally claimed one or more young gentlemen as the express property of her daughter. Every tried papa found himself reeling from talk of lace, gentlemen, and thoughts of defending their daughters lacing their reverie.

The Bennet household was no different, except perhaps a bit, let us say, unrestrained.

“Mama!” came a shriek from the youngest girl’s room. “Kitty has taken my new cream gown!”

“I did nothing of the sort. It is just in the wash from the last time you wore it. Do not place the blame on me for your clumsiness,” Kitty responded to Lydia in an equally loud defensive voice.

“Oh, my nerves!” was the compassionate response of Mrs. Bennet.

The elder sisters were a bit more sedate in their preparations. Jane and Elizabeth found themselves quietly and efficiently preparing for the evening while Mary, little minding such social occasions, was below practicing her pianoforte.

Indeed, unlike the majority of the young women, Jane and Elizabeth had not claimed any particular newcomer as their own, nor were they creating havoc in their preparations to make the most spectacular first impression.

“What is that smile for, Lizzy?” asked Jane as she saw her sister’s face in the mirror.

“I was simply wondering what a fuss this all is. After all, it is merely resulting from a few new neighbors. We know so little of them and yet they have dominated all conversation and speculation for a fortnight. Have we really nothing else of note to discuss?” the exasperated Elizabeth sighed. She had listened to the constant gossiping, arguing, and frivolous speculation of her younger sisters, their acquaintances, and her mother. No patience was left of her already preciously short supply.

“I am sure tonight will improve the situation. You shall see. You had best hurry though, Lizzy, Mama will not want to arrive late this evening,” Jane quietly suggested.

Mr. Bennet, as usual, was closeted in his library.

Too soon for most in the house, whether from their nerves, their vanity, or their less than social natures, the entire family departed for the assembly.

The scene at Netherfield Hall was quite different. Bingley was unusually reflective. Not to insinuate the gentleman was not thoughtful, he just usually was more boisterous. Today had been a trying day.

“I am positive that Master Benjamin will soon adapt to his new home. It is all so new for him.”

“Mrs. Annesley is correct, Bingley. Give the boy time. Children are resilient. Give him time,” Colonel Fitzwilliam assured his anxious friend.

“Yes, Charles, my cousin is right. Let me spend the evening with him. You go to the assembly and meet your neighbors. Benjamin and I will enjoy an evening of story books and errant knights,” contributed Georgiana.

Colonel Fitzwilliam pondered his cousin for a moment. In just under two weeks, Georgiana had become very close to the young orphan. Normally silent and shy in company, if Benjamin was a source of conversation or the issue at hand, she would be his staunchest defender and most loyal companion. However, she would again retreat to her shell when the conversation turned or Benjamin left the room. “At least that cynical Miss Bingley stayed with the Hursts in town. She causes Georgiana to retreat faster than any military maneuver I have ever witnessed!” The good Colonel thought to himself.

After ensuring that his young charge would be well taken care of by the ladies, Bingley finally agreed to take the evening outing. Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam took the carriage to the assembly.

The room was full of chattering women, warm welcomes by neighbors, and hearty music. The noise and temperature of the room slowly increased with each family that entered in anticipation of these twenty wealthy young men.

As it is so often in life, the highest expectations are dashed with a bit of life’s cold water. Once the Lucas family came, they brought the intelligence that the hunting party of wealthy gentlemen had left for town. The town’s innkeeper informed his wife that the regiment was drilling and thus the officers would not be in attendance.

The majority of the neighborhood families arrived quite early. Thus when Mr. Bingley and his companion entered the hall, they found themselves the object of every gaze the country’s society could offer. Even Mr. Bingley’s good humor and fondness for a dance was daunted. Luckily, Colonel Fitzwilliam’s humor and military prowess saved them from disaster.

“Well Bingley, we seem to have made a bit of a spectacle of ourselves. Perhaps this is a private party?” jested the Colonel as he strategically made his way through the room, guiding Bingley by the arm.

As they were seeking a location from which to set up camp, the young men were accosted by Sir William Lucas and Mr. Bennet.

“Capital, capital! Nothing like a bit of joviality on such a fine night!” cheered the indubitable Sir Lucas.

“I find the company here quite, inquisitive, if I read faces correctly upon our entrance,” returned Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“My dear boy,” for Mr. Bennet liked the young officer after meeting him a few days prior, “you have the unique situation of being the object of every woman’s attention this evening. As your party was to comprise two other gentlemen, the ladies now find themselves with merely Mr. Bingley and yourself to speculate upon. Even the boys stranded at the inn were unable to join us this evening. So I fear you must bear the admiration of all our young ladies between just the two of you!”

While slightly surprised by Mr. Bennet’s colorful and slightly less than proper speech, the gentlemen could not but feel some secret level of pleasure. After all, what young man of marriageable age does not appreciate the soft smiles and flirtatious glances of the gentler sex?

Just as the gentlemen were settling into a comfortable discussion of the local prospects for hunting, the elder two heard a familiar voice.

“Mr. Bennet, why there you are! We have been searching for you for the past age!”

“Well, my dear, you have found me. How may I assist you?” questioned the lady’s husband.

“Oh, I did not notice with whom you were speaking!” and with a demure blush remembered from her youth, Mrs. Bennet sought an introduction.

“Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, may I present my lovely wife, Mrs. Bennet.”

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” The gentlemen courteously replied.

While the gentlemen made their appropriate bows, Mrs. Bennet sought her daughters from the crowd.

Recognizing their mother’s glance, the eldest two quickly responded. Not from a particular desire to do whatever her wish was, but rather to avoid the shrill call that would soon follow the much quieter glance. Mr. Bennet observed all this and managed to mingle a sigh and chuckle before again making introductions.

“Gentlemen, I must beg you indulgence again and introduce my two eldest daughters, Miss Jane Bennet and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. My dears, this is Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley.”

When men of action are faced with the best the fairer sex has to offer, they tend to forget they are men of action and instead act as men of few wits. It must be admitted that both Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam, normally in possession of sound mind and quick action, needed a few moments before they could coherently reply. Conveniently, as propriety dictated and years of practice ingrained, they made the perfunctory bows and regained their wits. Both were particularly struck by the eldest’s beauty. The younger lady was particularly struck by the humor of the situation.

“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam.” As Elizabeth murmured the words you would think her the most polite, well mannered lady in the room. If you, like her father, happened to notice the slight smirk and laughter threatening to bubble through her words, you might reconsider that hasty judgment. Fortunately, neither of the gentlemen noticed and her mother was too enraptured by the gentlemen’s rapture to care.

Mr. Bingley, in a stunning tactical move, preceded his military comrade and asked Miss Jane to dance the next set. Not wishing to admit defeat and realizing there was another charming young lady in front of him, Colonel Fitzwilliam engaged Miss Elizabeth for the same set. Thus the Bennet girls quickly became the envy of every daughter and the object of every mother’s scorn. Fortunately for the girls, they little cared at this particular moment.

Of Jane and Bingley’s dance, not much could be said other than they were blissfully happy, even tempered, and finished desiring to know more of their angelic partner. If only the same could be said for the unsuspecting Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“How long do you plan to stay in the area Colonel?” queried the lady.

“As long as my general allows, my lady,” for his chivalry was quickly returning. “My cousins and I are here to assist Bingley with his new home and his new ward.”

“I see…”but the remaining thought was cut short by the dance causing the pair to separate. As they drew back together, the observant Colonel began to more fully appreciate the charms of his partner.

“You are quite proficient at the dance, Miss Elizabeth. It is an honor to share the floor with you.” This bit of blatant flattery was rewarded with a laugh from his partner.

“I may be proficient at dancing, but you sir, appear to be even more accomplished at flattery.”

For a moment the dauntless Colonel was surprised for the second time that evening. He began to see that as long as his acquaintance with the Bennet family existed, he would continually be surprised. Fortunate for him at this moment, he was unaware of how long that acquaintance would be.

While Meryton society danced, gossiped, and thoroughly enjoyed the society offered, a smaller engagement took place in the nursery of Netherfield.

“…the end.” The lady read, “What did you think of the story Benjamin?”

“Hmmmm…” the drowsy lad murmured.

“I do believe it is off to bed with you young sir.” The elder lady smiled as she picked up the boy to carry him to the land of Nod.

Georgiana put the book she had read the boy back on the shelf and then proceeded to pick up the various toys and puzzles they had amused themselves with that evening. Soon her companion joined her.

“He seems to have adjusted to Netherfield reasonably well.”

“Yes, I think he feels more at home in the country. The fresh air and freedom help to sooth the soul…” Georgiana’s voice faded away. Mrs. Annesley looked at her charge, but her charge merely looked out the window. Deciding Georgiana needed to be alone with her thoughts, Mrs. Annesley silently excused her self to retire for the night.

For several minutes Georgiana stared at the window, her face a cloud of emotion. Was it empathy, memory, or something more…?

“Mama!” a shriek emerged from the boy’s room next door.

Georgiana rushed in and gathered the frightened boy in her arms. “Shhhh…everything is fine. Shhhh…”

“Mama,” a whimper emerged again.

“I know, my dear, I know.” And Georgiana did know. She thought it strange what they have in common, this boy and herself. The loss of their parents. The loss of some of their childhood. The nightmares. The long nights. She hummed one of the endless supplies of songs in her repertoire.

As she held the trembling boy, he calmed and eventually fell back to sleep. The older girl, not yet a lady, but not quite a child, held him and kept vigil.

The next morning brought lovely sunshine and a fresh breeze. After the gaiety of the previous evening and the rather taxing carriage ride home, Elizabeth relished her morning ramble. Today she found herself meandering through the meadows in the general direction of Netherfield. Lost in her thoughts of the entertaining repartee with the Colonel and the happy countenance of her sister, she quickly passed over the miles until the house itself was in sight.

Beginning to turn around, she noticed a tall, fair girl sitting on a bench in the more wild part of the park with a book in her hand. At the same moment the girl looked up to see Elizabeth. There were tears in the young girl’s eyes. With such a mournful sight before her, Elizabeth’s heartstrings pulled her to the girl.

“Pardon the intrusion, but are you quite all right?”

“Oh yes, yes,” with a swipe of her hand she cleared her tears and managed a feeble smile for Elizabeth. “I have been enjoying a few moments of peace and a rather tragic novel I am afraid to admit.”

With such a confession, Elizabeth empathized, but wondered the veracity of her words. “You find me seeking the same circumstances.” She smiled as she held up her small volume. “Since we appear to be in the same situation, perhaps you would allow me to forgo yet another civility and introduce myself. My name is Elizabeth Bennet. My family lives near here in Longbourn.”

The girl became quite shy as Elizabeth spoke. Before she completely receded, she did whisper, “I am Georgiana Darcy.”

Intrigued by the circumstances, the girl, and the shyness, Elizabeth used all her charm and compassion as she continued. “Miss Darcy it is a pleasure to meet you. Might I ask what novel you are enjoying?”

“While I doubt the novel the cause of her tears, this is the simplest way to encourage her,” Elizabeth remarked to herself. “I know not what is troubling her, but she is not more than Kitty’s age and her eyes are haunted.”

Under the willows of Netherfield, the young ladies began a conversation on novels. Whether the one’s father or the other’s elder brother would approve of such frivolity was not of their concern for the moment.

“Very good, sir. Will you be needing anything else?” inquired the steward.

“No, thank you Mr. Rothchild. I believe all the necessary matters are completed. I will be off to Hertfordshire later this morning. You can route any necessary correspondence to Netherfield Hall. Unless anything pressing occurs, I plan to stay there for a few months to assist Bingley,” the master of Pemberley replied.

“I wish Mr. Bingley the best of luck with his estate and his ward. Please tell him that Mrs. Rothchild and I are praying for him and the boy,” the kindly man offered.

“Rest assured I will.”

As his steward left, he yet again found himself appreciating the kindly man who was just old enough to exude a fatherly presence. Both he and Bingley valued Rothchild for sound business advice and the comforting word.

Mr. Darcy finished his work in the study before heading to his room to prepare for his departure. In less than an hour after his steward left, Darcy was on the road toward Hertfordshire.

He settled into the cushioned carriage and allowed his thoughts to wander. Since Ramsgate, he had spent precious little time with Georgiana. The time in the backwater town of Meryton would be ample opportunity to encourage her to over come the past. Without the pressures of the London society or the solitude of Pemberley, this will be a welcome diversion for her. “I shall be quite busy with Bingley and Benjamin, but with no society to speak of, there will be few demands on my time.” When men make their plans, that is when the divine humor is invoked…

Chapter 3 – Unintended Consequences

With a bone rattling jolt, the carriage lurched to the side and fell at a jaunty angle. With the quick reflexes honed by years of fencing and hunting, Mr. Darcy was able to avoid injury.

“What has happened?” he demanded.

“There’s a fracture in the wheel, sir,” the coachman replied. “It will need to be repaired before we can journey any further. It is beyond my abilities, sir,” the man apologized.

With a sigh Mr. Darcy resigned himself to a night in the small town they were passing through.

It was nearly noon before the garden companions made note of the time. “Oh! Mama may actually be wondering where I have gotten to!” Elizabeth exclaimed.

“I am so sorry to have kept you so long, Miss Bennet,” Georgiana apologized.

“Now, do not concern yourself. My family is long used to my rambles, some of which cause me to miss more than one meal or disappear for the entire day.”

Over the course of their conversation, Georgiana slowly overcame her shyness to a degree allowing for pleasant and open conversation. While the subject began with novels, the topic strayed to travel, the warm breeze, and what life in Meryton is like. Not a shabby beginning to a new friendship. Georgiana was new to female companionship, close to her own age. Not sure what to do, but not wishing to conclude this pleasant morning, she bravely did something she had never done before.

“Miss Bennet, would you care to join me for lunch? It is a long walk back to Longbourn and the hour is so late. Perhaps a servant could be dispatched to tell you family of the circumstances?” she shyly offered.

“Why Miss Darcy, that would be a delight.” Elizabeth was honored that the reticent girl made such an effort just for her comfort.

With few additional words, the pair descended upon the halls of Netherfield and the gentlemen within.

“There is no one in our village who can fix that wheel sir. We will have to send to the next village for the repairs.” The town smith explained.

“Very well. I will be at the inn. Please notify me when repairs begin.” Mr. Darcy brusquely replied.

“At least there is an inn,” he brooded. “Here I thought to be in Hertfordshire by the week’s end and now I shall stay the week in whatever forsaken place this might be.”

To say he was not pleased is quite the understatement.

“Miss Bennet!” Alas for the Colonel and Mr. Bingley, just as they had regrouped following the follies of the night before, they were confronted with yet another opportunity to drop their wits. As they bowed and scurried to collect their lost wits, Elizabeth smiled and dropped a curtsey.

“Why Miss Elizabeth, you did not tell me you know my cousin and friend!”

“Yes, Miss Darcy, I had the pleasure of making their acquaintance last evening at the assembly. I found that they performed quite admirably, as they have just demonstrated again for us.”

Miss Darcy was mildly astonished at her new friend’s speech, but had to admit the sight of the befuddled gentlemen was amusing. As they sat down to luncheon the conversation continued light and friendly. Within the hour the four were fast friends. The openness of one gentleman, engaging manners of the other combined with the sweetness of the youngest lady and the wit of the elder made the meal enjoyable and foretold of a happy acquaintance.

Mrs. Annesley smiled to herself. “This is just what the dear girl needs. Miss Bennet will be of more help than I ever could. I shall have to make some inquiries to ensure she is a suitable companion for Miss Darcy. I cannot imagine anything amiss.” With that thought, Mrs. Annesley continued her meal and listened to the conversation around her.

“I really must insist on stepping outside this room. You cannot hold me hostage here any longer!”

“You really make the worst sort of patient, Brooke. The doctor said you were to keep off your leg for a fortnight longer. Now I know you are stubborn man, but I will not see you do anything foolish!” Holdsworth admonished his invalid friend.

“But I have been in this inn’s room for days now! Surely I could test out the wonders of the dining facilities?”

“Oh, Holdsworth, you know we shall not win this. For underneath our sweet tempered friend’s skin lies a man of the most stubborn and incorrigible nature.” Howe jested.

With that the two men with full use of their limbs, escorted the third. They made quite a comical entrance to the inn’s luncheon service that day.

“Lizzy! Where have you been, child! Oh! My nerves, what you do to my nerves.”

“Mama, do not fret, I was simply walking this morning. I am quite healthy and uninjured, I assure you.”

“Just where have you wandered too? Your sisters did not see you when they walked to Meryton this morning.”

Elizabeth wondered if there was any way to avoid telling her mother of her morning’s adventures. She would not lie, but to admit she was in the company of the great Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam would fuel her mother’s nerves for days to come. As usual it was her sister Jane who redirected her mother’s thoughts.

“Have you spoken to Mrs. Hill regarding dinner? You mentioned that you wished to change the menu.”

With that thought her mother began a new tirade and made her way to the kitchen. Mrs. Bennet’s eldest daughters smiled and left for their room.

Netherfield, yet again, was a much quieter home. The gentlemen were attending to business in the library, or that is what they admitted to when previously asked. The ladies were occupied in the music room with the young master.

“Miss G’anna,” Georgiana was a bit much for the young lad to venture out, “how does this work?”

“This is a pianoforte. It makes music for people when they play it.”

“Like my toy soldiers?”

“No,” the ladies smiled at this. “You have to press these keys in certain orders and at special speeds.”

“Then what?” Apparently Benjamin had not yet concluded his curious phase.

Miss Georgiana and Master Benjamin proceeded to spend the next hours in an impromptu music lesson and mechanical explanation of the inner workings of a pianoforte.

As Mrs. Annesley and Georgiana tucked Benjamin into bed that night, he fell asleep quickly and without the usual nightmares.

Mrs. Annesley bid her charge good night. “I do believe those two children are healing each other without even attending to it. However, I do now fear for the health of the pianoforte!”

Over the ensuing fortnight, many invitations, carriages, and walkers were seen flying between Netherfield and Longbourn. The gentlemen, to be honest, were particularly pleased with the ladies of Longbourn. To be brutally honest, Mr. Bingley was most pleased with Miss Jane. Colonel Fitzwilliam soon came to regard the elder Miss Bennets as all that was charming, enticing, and witty. In an honest moment of reflection, the intrepid Colonel realized that Jane long since became Mr. Bingley’s Jane and well, he was consistently out done by Miss Elizabeth. That is quite the unsettling revelation for a master of military strategy.

The ladies of Netherfield were no less pleased with their new acquaintances. To be sure, Mrs. Annesley amply fulfilled her duty by finding out the reputation of the Bennet family and most particularly Jane and Elizabeth. Pleased by the general reports of all her new acquaintances, she felt comfortable encouraging the budding friendship. Georgiana, while fearful and shy initially, warmed to Jane, a kindred spirit and was drawn out by the vivacious Elizabeth. Jane made Georgiana comfortable and content. Elizabeth made Georgiana laugh and bend her intelligent mind in new discussions and debates. Yes, Mrs. Annesley was quite pleased. Her charge was not in need of more tutoring or masters of music; she merely needed friendship of young women her own age.

The mistress of Longbourn was reaching convulsions on a daily basis. With each passing visit or invitation to tea, her raptures reached new heights. In deed, on a particular day, her voice was heard by her sister as she stepped from the carriage surrounded by her children. Lizzy managed to hear her mother’s jubilant plans for a marriage from her attic hiding spot. When the weather did not permit outdoor escape, it was to this shabby, yet comfortable room, she fled her mother’s antics. On this particular day, though, she was willing to descend from her perch once she heard,

“Oh, my dear sister! My dear sister Gardiner! You will never know what the to-do is!”

Not waiting to hear her aunt’s voice, Elizabeth rushed down the stairs to embrace her most beloved aunt.

Lest my dear reader believe me negligent in forgetting to mention the visit of this aunt and cousins, it must be admitted that the Bennet ladies were the ones to truly forget. With the excitement of Netherfield, the annual summer visit of the Gardiner children from the city was forgotten by all but Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Hill. Fortunately for the comfort of the Gardiners, these two mindful souls made all the necessary preparations.

Following the meal that evening, a comfortable family party formed in the Bennet home. Mrs. Gardiner helped to calm the nerves of her husband’s sister. The eldest two girls found a confidant in their favorite aunt. All the Bennet girls enjoyed the presence of the two young Gardiner children, Alexander and Margaret. These precocious twins were the delight of the family.

At this moment, Kitty was reading them a story before their bed time while the adults and older girls acquainted themselves with the news from each family.

“My husband regrets that he will be unable to join us. His business is keeping him in town this month. As much as I will miss him, I find myself quite pleased to escape the city in this warmth.”

“My dear sister, you are always very welcome. And to hear of the latest fashions! We shall have to see the dressmaker soon!” Some may think Mrs. Bennet unfeeling, but Mrs. Gardiner knew her husband’s elder sister intended well.

“So my dears, tell me of your new neighbors.”

Jane merely blushed, Elizabeth smiled somewhat coyly, and Mrs. Gardiner surmised much of what her nieces were about to say.

“They are so very pleasant and attentive neighbors, Aunt.” Jane managed over her blush.

“Yes, quite attentive,” Elizabeth cocked her eyebrow. “I find though that Mr. Bingley sometimes seems distracted though when we visit. Somehow it is only when my sister is in the room.”

“Lizzy!”

“Oh, Jane, you know that your Mr. Bingley is even more taken with you than you are with him!”

“Now, now,” Mrs. Gardiner’s impish smile was vaguely reminiscent of Lizzy’s. “Am I to believe that Jane has commandeered the attention of your neighbors edging you from the social scene?”

Lizzy laughed with her aunt. They really were so similar in nature and with relatively few years’ difference in age, they made a formidable pair.

“No indeed, Aunt. Rather it is Lizzy who puts the room to shame. She charmed Mrs. Annesley, bewitched Miss Darcy, and encourages the impish behavior of Master Benjamin all while causing poor Colonel Fitzwilliam to stumble over his words in a battle of wits!” Few had the privilege of seeing the wit of Jane run long, but when it did escape her, it made a lively show.

The three ladies laughed and continued the conversation until Mrs. Gardiner’s travel weariness returned. With promises for a good long morning walk, the three separated to their rooms.

Chapter 4 - Letters

The morning dawned clear and bright over most of England. Mr. Darcy found himself in his carriage heading towards his London townhouse after the considerable delay of nearly a fortnight in that small, but he had to admit, charming town. The two weeks of enforced idleness allowed him to roam the unfamiliar countryside on foot and horse. As any good traveler of an educated nature, he also read the numerous volumes he had brought from Pemberley. Nonetheless, he was more than pleased to be returning to his own home.

After several more hours, he was deposited at the entrance to his townhouse. Upon arrival he was greeted by his concerned housekeeper, Mrs. MacGregor.

“Mr. Darcy! We are so pleased to finally see you. I trust the remainder of your travels passed uneventfully?”

“Yes, Mrs. MacGregor, no further adventures on the road thankfully.” Mr. Darcy smiled at the warm, Scottish, matron who effectively ran his London home.

“I believe, sir, that there are several important letters left by your solicitor. I placed them on your desk in the library.”

“No rest for the weary, I fear.”

“Forgive the impertinence, but is that the saying?” chided Mrs. MacGregor as she made her way to the upstairs to continue her daily duties.

Mr. Darcy smiled as he entered his favorite room.

If anyone were to witness the interaction between the trusted staff and their master and his sister, they would be astounded. The steward was fatherly. The London housekeeper was nearer a jolly aunt than a servant. The Pemberley housekeeper mothered the two Darcys more often than not. The master of the horses spoiled and jested with the two orphans as only a favorite uncle could, one might imagine. While in public, Mr. and Miss Darcy were all that seemed aloof and proud, in private they were a small family seeking comfort and guidance without even realizing. Their astute staff long saw themselves as caretakers for their beloved Master and Miss. When others were in attendance, they were all that was proper, but in private they offered affection and guidance in whatever means lay at their hands. In such a manner the Darcy estate hummed day in and day out since the deaths of the elder Darcys years before.

My dearest sister,

I do apologize for the delay. You can not imagine the frustration of being stranded when all I wished was to spend time in the country with you. I am now in London and thoroughly enjoying the comforts of home again. I must offer more apologies. My solicitor and I have business that cannot be delayed. With much regret I must inform you that I will remain in London for a few weeks. I promise to return to you at Netherfield soon my dear. I will keep this missive short. The more quickly I return to my business, the more quickly I will be able to return to you.

With all my love,
Fitzwilliam

Dear Mama,

I find that my confinement is becoming difficult to bear. Quite literally! The little one is stirring and keeping me from much sleep. I do so wish you were here. This is such a momentous time. Please do hurry your arrival. Perhaps the Darcys will allow you to depart earlier than you had anticipated?

Your daughter,
Mary

To the home, just about three miles away, the ensuing scene is a routine happenstance, for the hallowed halls of Netherfield this was a novelty. Among the younger Miss Bennets, such contriving is routine. For Miss Georgiana Darcy, the coming machinations were a first attempt.

“Mrs. Annesley, I do hope all is well with your daughter. You certainly should go to her as soon as possible,” Georgiana said in true compassion.

“I do wish that my dear,” her companion replied. “I am concerned about the propriety of leaving you here and departing without your good brother’s agreement.”

“Why do I not tell him of the situation in my next letter? Perhaps we could come to some plan agreeable to all?” the young lady suggested. It was at this moment that Miss Darcy found herself, for the first time in her life, creating a scheme.

“Why, I have just thought of something, Mrs. Annesley. Why do we not see if the elder Miss Bennets could stay with me? I have my cousin here as my guardian. The other ladies would help to keep me company while you are away,” Miss Darcy was the picture of all that was innocent.

“That is a fine idea,” her companion replied oblivious to the trap laid at her feet, “However, three young ladies cannot stay in a house full of young men without a chaperone.”

“Could not their aunt Gardiner be invited to fill that role,” Miss Darcy queried with large open eyes.

Alas for Mrs. Annesley, she found herself completely taken in by this wonderful performance of Miss Darcy. Not that any malicious intentions were behind it, merely an opportunity to have her friends close and a bit more varied dinner conversation. The kind older woman agreed this was a lovely plan. The two turned to their own writing desks and began their efforts.

Miss Georgiana, now fully enthralled with the success of her efforts realized her brother may not be as taken with this divine idea. For that reason, Miss Darcy neglected to share the change in circumstances or the plans for the next few days. She posted the letter to her brother. When the reply came, full of details of business and their townhouse, Miss Darcy, it must be admitted, colored the truth to her companion.

“My brother trusts your judgment and my colonel’s supervision; shall we invite the Miss Bennets and Mrs. Gardiner?”

Thus, Georgiana Darcy successfully completed her first efforts to plot, plan, and generally get her way.

Colonel Forster

I would request the honor of an opportunity to discuss a serious matter with you. It is my duty as a fellow officer and concerned guardian of a young lady to inform you of a bit of history regarding one of your subordinates, a Lieutenant Wickham. Please inform me of an appointment that is at your earliest convenience.

Colonel Fitzwilliam

My dear Mrs. Annesley,

What a pleasure to hear from you. I had not expected to receive a letter while you were away. Since duties here keep me quite occupied with the Master and Miss away, I will be straight to the point.

I remember quite well, Mady, rather, Mrs. Gardiner. She and my Molly were quite close as children. Over the years I periodically hear from the dear girl and understand from my friends in London that her husband is a very notable and trusted man of business. In fact, my sister tells me that despite her young children, Mrs. Gardiner still manages a large part of the hospital society. The last gala was greatly the result of her efforts. Have no fear with her in regards to Miss Georgiana. If her nieces are at all like her, you may have your handful should they enter into a bit of witty repartee or frivolity.

Please take care of the Master and Miss for us dear. We all look forward to your return soon.

Your friend,
Mrs. Reynolds

Dear Miss Jane Bennet and Miss Elizabeth Bennet,

This is a rather hasty invitation, and I do apologize for the informal and hurried nature. I would like to invite the two of you to join me for a few weeks at Netherfield. In addition, would your aunt, Mrs. Gardiner care to join you to chaperone us? I find that my companion must depart for her daughter’s home soon and I would be left in this rambling manor with my Cousin and Mr. Bingley as my sole companions. Please take pity on me and save me from the fate of weeks with only over protective guardians for companionship. I look forward to your immediate response.

Your desperate friend and neighbor,
Miss Georgiana Darcy

“That is quite the letter! It seems you are influencing your new friend, Lizzy,” Mrs. Gardiner’s laughter bubbled forth as the letter was read by Jane.

“What do you wish to do Aunt?” Jane enquired.

“Pending your parents’ approval of the scheme and your younger sisters’ willingness to attend to the twins, I think this would be an excellent opportunity to better know to your Mr. Bingley and the poor Colonel.”

With all the expected noise and bother that only Mrs. Bennet could muster, she quickly assented and began planning her girls’ wardrobes. Mr. Bennet was much more sedate in his approval, this could have been the result of the young Alexander in his lap playing with the chess pieces while Margaret paged through one of the old picture books she had found.

The next day found Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, and an exceedingly curious Mrs. Gardiner at the steps of Netherfield.

“Miss Jane! Miss Wizzy!” lisped the young master of the house as he flew from the futile attempts of Mrs. Annesley to retrain him. However, he stopped short of the young ladies when he encountered their aunt.

“Good day sir, might I have the pleasure of your name?” inquired the curious and bemused Mrs. Gardiner.

“Good day, my lady. My name is Master Benjamin,” replied the child with a child’s attempt at a courteous bow. With that the young master was managed to charm another woman into his power.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Master Benjamin. My name is Mrs. Gardiner. Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth are my nieces.”

At this point, the young gallant was flanked by his much taller cousin and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Miss Bennet effected the necessary introductions and the young knight escorted his lady to the house while Mr. Bingley took Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam braved Lizzy. A much more feminine introduction proceeded in the music room where the ladies were met by Georgiana.

The guests were installed in their rooms and refreshed themselves while Mrs. Annesley bade her charge farewell downstairs. Not being inclined to dewy farewells, the gentlemen found themselves in the library doing business, though to the casual observer, it looked much more like Colonel Fitzwilliam was engaging General Benjamin in a battle of epic proportions with tin soldiers canvassing the hearth rug.

The rather unusual gathering of friends and acquaintances quickly formed a friendly house party under the supervision of Mrs. Gardiner.

Dinner that evening proved most entertaining. As Mrs. Gardiner was just slightly older than her nieces, she was fully able to enjoy the vibrant, youthful, and occasionally exuberant conversation at dinner. Benjamin had pleaded so pitifully to be allowed to join the adults for supper, that they capitulated. The gentlemen found themselves competing for the ladies attention, with the young master most often victorious. Mr. Bingley was at Jane’s feet for the duration of the evening so it fell to Colonel Fitzwilliam to brave the wit of both Elizabeth and her aunt. Georgiana participated, but was mostly enjoying the varying scenes played out before her. It was questionable in her mind whether the shy love scene between her host and the elder Miss Bennet or the comical farce of the Colonel and Benjamin battling for Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner’s attention was more entertaining.

Given the amount of conversation and complete enjoyment of the splendid dessert Mr. Bingley’s cook offered, Benjamin was nodding his head onto the table.

“Oh, dear!” Georgiana said when she noticed Benjamin’s bleary eyes. “It appears to be well past the young master’s bed time.

“Miss Darcy, I will happily take him to his room,” Jane offered, “If you do not mind. I often help with my niece and nephew.”

A soft, but firm, “I want Miss Jane,” emitted from the drooping head.

“That appears to settle the situation,” chuckled Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“Of course, Miss Bennet, it seems you are quite in demand,” Miss Darcy replied with a warm smile and slightly pointed glance at her host. Only Miss Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner caught the glance, but their bemused expressions belied their agreement with her statement.

Jane excused herself and picked the young master up in her arms. He quickly hugged her and had a firm hold on her neck. As she took him to his room, she began to whisper a story to him so to ensure he would continue his drowsy mindset.

Once in his room, she dressed him in his night clothes and tucked him into his bed. There she continued her story until the young boy was asleep. She sat there for a few more minutes to ensure he really had fallen soundly asleep. Though she would not know what she was admitting to, she felt this was so comfortable and right. As with most things in her life, this thought simply caused a placid smile as she tucked a stray strand of Benjamin’s hair behind his ear.

Unbeknownst to Miss Bennet, Mr. Bingley had just stepped to the doorway of his young charge’s room. He wished to ensure that the energetic youngster did not overwhelm Miss Bennet. At least that is what he told himself. When he saw the sight of Miss Bennet leaning down to kiss Benjamin’s forehead, his breath caught. This was one of the most endearing moments he had ever experienced. Seeing her care for the child and under his roof seemed so natural. If it were possible, he fell even more deeply in love with this mild angel.

Continued In Next Section