Beginning, Section II
Jump to new as of January 14, 2008
Jump to new as of February 1, 2008
Jump to new as of April 26, 2008
Posted on Friday, 4 January 2008
From the last chapter Mrs Norris said "....Mrs Bennet, I see you are in the habit of getting up pretty late"
Lady Bertram was well prepared for Mrs Norris's comments.
"Good Morning Mrs Norris. I trust you have slept well ? As to getting up late, you probably dont know how long dinners, parties and balls go on; especially in London. You have lived all your life quietly in the country, hardly having any engagements. Anyway, as you can see, Sir Thomas is not up himself."
She continued after a brief pause "But dont worry dear Mrs Norris, I am sure you will be often invited to parties at the House in Mansfield & you will surprise yourself by getting up later than you do now"
"What do you mean invited to parties ? I will have you know that no party at the house can be done without my organizing it. I demand to be of help to my nieces and with their best interest in mind, shall organize everything just like Sir Thomas likes it. Madam, you are new to him and new to the house. You wont really know much about how he likes things. You will be better off leaving all the organizing to me. That way you can also spend valuable time getting ready to look the part of Lady Bertram. And as for sleeping late, you will find that no party or ball stops me from getting up at my usual early hour"
"Sir Thomas has told me all about the entertainment that Mansfield is used to - its hardly anything. They gave about 2-3 dinners in an entire year or so. And were hardly ever invited out.What a boring life that must be. Sir Thomas quite agrees with me on that. And let me tell you Ma'am that I need no help organizing anything. I have been giving dinners & parties most of my married life. Indeed Sir Thomas told me that he was quite astonished by my hosting such nice dinners and overall you know.. handling my household so well. That was something he really admired in me. I am not used to languishing on the sofa. You will see a big change in the engagements at Mansfield now, not quite what you are used to. Sir Thomas wishes for it & so do the children. As to time for my getting ready - you dont have to worry about that. I am used to having an upper maid help us and we will of course continue to do that. My dear Mrs Norris, I am used to handling being a hostess and looking the part. I dont need anyone's help, least of all a country clergyman's wife's to see me thru. You will be an useful neighbor of course and my step-daughters and my own daughters, I am sure, will like to have an aunt to visit (or invite) from time to time."
She sure is a good talker, thought Mrs Norris. She decided to change the tactics.
"I met your 2 youngest daughters yesterday. They seem to be charming girls."
"Thank You. All my girls are charming. So are my step-daughters of course."
"Its a pity that Kitty and Lydia, especially Lydia who is so beautiful should not be allowed to attend parties"
Lady Bertram had not expected such a remark from Mrs Norris. What is she trying to do now?
"Yes, I quite agree with you there. But Sir Thomas and I have discussed it at length. Both Kitty and Lydia are too young to be out. And it will be more fun in a year or two to have a coming-out ball for them.Wont it ?"
"What? A ball for them ? Given by Sir Thomas ? He never gave one for his own daughters..."
"That is because their mother was never disposed to give one"
"But you didnt give any for your other daughters, did you ?"
"That is different. Their father was not disposed to giving one. And now, in Lydia and Kitty's case, both their mother and their step-father are inclined to give one. But really Mrs Norris, you should not concern yourself too much with our family matters. I will of course have consulted you if we had decided to give a ball for Fanny this time"
Mrs Norris almost fell out of her chair "What ? A ball for Fanny ? Why would anyone want to do such a thing"
"Sir Thomas & I had considered a coming-out ball for Mary and Fanny this year...but then we thought they were already old enough to be mixing with company. Mary has been often going to parties & balls. If we had had a ball for them, they would have to be indoors before the ball - not attend theater or other parties before the ball. Sir Thomas wanted them to enjoy everything right from our first day in London. So the ball wont be a coming-out ball after all. It will be - you know - just a ball given by Sir & Lady Bertram for their children."
"Ball ? Are you saying we are giving a ball in London ? But we leave on Friday..."
"The ball is tomorrow. Didnt Sir Thomas tell you ? As our houseguest you are invited of course."
"No one told me. Not even my nieces & nephews. Hmmmphh. I didn't see any preparations for the ball going on. Are you sure you can get everything done by tomorrow ?"
Lady Bertam's smile increased to a big grin.
"Mrs Norris, this just shows how unequipped you are for organizing such grand events. Did you expect the entire household to be in uproar over preparations for a mere ball ? Should everyone just drop all other tasks & prepare for it ? Of course the preparations have been going on. Take a look at the kitchen; it has been a buzz of activities. Cook and her helpers have been busy getting everything ready - it will be white soup and a cold buffet. The butler has already ordered flowers, the invitations have all been sent, a list of the accepted ones already being maintained..everything is in perfect order. Although I heard Sir Thomas say that he had a last minute invitation to send. He didn't know Col Fitzwilliam, the second son of the Earl Of Matlock was in town, until we met him yesterday. He personally invited the Colonel last night, but the normal invitation card will follow today. As I said to dear Sir Thomas, any red coat is more than welcome to my ball"
"Your ball ?? I think the ball is more for the benefit of my nieces" scoffed Mrs Norris
"It is for the benefit of all the daughters and sons of this household. But really it's a ball given by Sir Thomas and myself & moreever its the very first ball we are hosting after our wedding; how do you think people are referring to it ? Even Miss Bingley told me yesterday that she was delighted to be attending your ball, Lady Bertram'. So there. But what you think of it is of no consequence whatsoever. And I should really get going with my breakfast. I have a few calls to make this morning."
Lady Bertram got up with that statement and swept outside to the breakfast room. Mrs Norris sat thinking for a while. Indeed if there was a dinner party at Mansfield she would find herself scolding and hurrying away the servants everywhere. But this lady just sat here calmly and told me about the ball preparations going on so quietly. She does seem to have a way with servants..or it must be Sir Thomas. Really, the servants will be in awe of him and new mistress for a while. May be that is the reason things are going on so quietly without the hustle and bustle.
After quarter of an hour Sir Thomas joined his lady in the breakfast room.
She gave him a brief outline of her conversation with Mrs Norris.
Sir Thomas laughed, "Life at Mansfield is going to be more lively than I had imagined. I wish I had not slept late but witnessed this wonderful conversation"
"Sir, you call that wonderful conversation ? Are you actually laughing at it? Mr Bennet had a tendency to laugh at such things, but you Sir, I thought you were of a more serious turn"
"My dear, please don't be offended. I am not laughing at you at all..I'm sure neither did Mr Bennet ever laugh at you. Although now I do see how he got the philosophical streak in him that I hear about from everyone. I am merely delighted at the way you got back to her. Was not the conversation wonderful in that respect ?"
"It was not wonderful in any respect. I don't think I like being told about how others can organize my parties & balls better than I can, at this juncture of my life. Haven't I been doing such things all my life? And commenting on my late waking up too…this is all so vexing. You know not how my nerves suffer after such a conversation."
"My dear, I totally agree with you...as I have often told you, you are a very good manager of such events. Indeed, even in the normal daily life the table you keep should make any man proud to have such a wife. All the children are so happy that you take such active interest in all the goings-on. Did I not tell you how the girls like having you as their step-mother ? In short, your husband and all your children are with you all the way. They approve of you & your habits. So why should something said by a comparative stranger affect you so ? You are after all Lady Bertram, the much loved mistress of this house & Mansfield Park. No one can touch that.and here comes Mrs Norris trying very hard to challenge that. My dear, you must see the humorous side of the situation too…"
Sir Thomas tried hard to get her to laugh with him, but she didn't budge. She was however very pleased to hear such approbation from Sir Thomas. She gloried in all that he said for her.
Sir Thomas wisely decided to let some more time pass before he tried to make her see the funny side of such events. She was molding pretty well to his expectations. He always knew that she was not a very intelligent person. But for the most part he was pleased to have married her. His kids, specially the girls, were blossoming under her attention (& being with Jane & Elizabeth had did them a lot of good). He was socializing with his friends in London; his house was always filled with liveliness and activity – a total opposite of the dullness it almost always had. The children were going into good company, a sure good thing for all of them.
He was looking forward to their life together in Mansfield Park.
He was enjoying his breakfast when Elizabeth entered the room.
"Good Morning Lizzy. I understand from your mother that you had a headache. Hope the fresh air did you some good ?"
"Good Morning Sir. Yes.the headache. I thought it was almost gone in the first hour I spent in the charming park. But I think it is returning again"
Sir Thomas looked up, "What happened after the first hour dear ? You do look.pretty done in"
Elizabeth blushed, "Nothing happened sir. I think I must have stayed out for too long. I better go and rest. We are supposed to dine with the Harrison's tonight, are we not ? May be I should not attend the dinner for the sake of being fit for tomorrow"
"Its too early to say anything about the dinner, Lizzy. You go up and lie down for a while. You may feel better in the afternoon. And you sure don't want to disappoint Charles Harrison, do you ? I have noticed him paying a lot of attention to you the last couple of times we met"
Sir Thomas grinned at her.
Elizabeth colored again, "Sir, then may be it will be a very good idea to give the dinner a miss"
Sir Thomas laughed at that & let her go
"I tell you Lady Bertram, your second daughter is getting to be a great favorite of mine. She has far more sense than all of our other. I see now why she was Mr Bennet's favorite child"
"My dear Sir Thomas, all my children and let me say all your children too have as much sense as Lizzy does, if not more."
"I am sorry my dear. I forgot - it's a topic that does not agree with you.Lets talk of other things. You said last night you wanted to show me the menu for the buffet tomorrow ?"
After the menu was looked over & approved, Sir Thomas introduced another topic,
"My dear, who do you think should open the Ball ?"
"Jane is older than Maria, so it is fit that she do so. More-ever, Tom has asked her for the first 2 dances. So Tom and Jane opening it seems ideal. Maria and her partner should follow. What do you think ?"
"I have other plans. I think you and I should open it. Tom and Jane will follow"
"What ? At this age do you really expect us to dance the first dance ?"
"Of course my dear. We are still young at heart are we not? And being the first ball we are giving together, people will not be surprised to see us open it. We need not dance after the first dance if you so wish. But let us have the first one. What do you say to that ?"
"Wellll. if you think that is right.” After a pause, “.hmmm, well, I should practice my dancing skills then. I have not danced at a ball in probably fifteen years at least."
"Neither have I in many many years!! But we will be alright."
Elizabeth rested in her room all afternoon.
She was quite overcome by the events of the morning. Mr Darcy actually proposing to her! And admiring her all these months..
What should I do for the first two dances ? No one has asked me yet. What if Mr Darcy finds me actually sitting down during those dances and asks again ? But surely, there is not really a danger of having no partner for these dances.I'm sure someone will ask me long before the dance begins.
Jane came in for a while to check on her. But Lizzy wanted to be alone. After spending most of the afternoon in misery, she decided to go down to the library for a while.
I don't like my own company. I keep thinking of that event. I believe myself to be right in all that I said and did. I should not waste more time thinking over it. If he claims his dance, I will do whatever politeness and courtesy require. I am going to stop worrying about it.
The library was deserted. Lizzy chose a volume of humorous essays and sat down with it. She tried to concentrate on the lines before her..
About 20 minutes later Fanny entered the library.
"Elizabeth, I hope you have recovered. You look somewhat gray"
"I am ok now I guess. Its just that.. my head was aching too much this morning"
"I heard you went out early morning. Was it windy then ? You should have waited for a few hours before venturing out"
"Yes, I know. I thought the fresh air will do me some good. But after a while the headache came back. But I am rested now"
"I am glad to hear it. So will you join us for the dinner tonite ?"
"I guess so. But I really hope Charles Harison doesn't continue his attentions."
"Why not ? He seems like a very nice person"
"Ya, he is. Well mannered and well educated. But I don't like people who cannot laugh with others. He seems so..so cold at times. You cant get him to warm up at all"
Fanny smiled.
"You know Lizzy, you cannot run away from his attentions tonite. So brace yourself. Is he better than Mr Collins then ? I heard all about him from Jane the other day"
"Hehe! Yes, he is far more better than Mr Collins for sure. I'd rather dance with him than Mr Collins anytime!!"
"Fanny, who is your lucky partner for the first 2 dances ?"
"Carl Stevenson asked me yesterday. What about you ?"
"I don't know.."
"Surely someone has asked you ?"
"Yes.but someone whom I didn't want to dance with.."
"So what did you do ? did you actually refuse this person ? How ?"
"Well.you know.I didn't want to be impolite so I…I am ashamed to say it, but I told him I was already engaged for the first two dances!"
"You did ? Oh Lizzy!! What will you do now ?"
"I don't know."
"I know.be more than polite to Charles Harison tonite" laughed Fanny.
Lizzy laughed with her
"I guess you are right! The other options is to just hide away."
Both the girls giggled as Edmund came in.
"Lizzy, Fanny, what is the joke ?"
Both of them colored.
"Nothing, we were just laughing at….umm…" Fanny couldn't think of anything more to say
"Charles Harison", Lizzy quipped
Edmund smiled, "Come on ladies. He is a decent gentleman, if somewhat starchy. Are you actually laughing at his expense ? What did he do now ?"
Lizzy said, "Nothing, nothing at all. We were rather hoping at some things he wont do tonite."
"Uf! Its better to let you enjoy your joke & not ask anything further. Who knows what goes on in ladies' minds!"
Both the ladies exchanged an amused grin.
"So tell me fair ladies, is anyone of you free for the first 2 dances ? I don't think I have any hopes at such a late stage. Well Fanny ? Lizzy ?"
Fanny said, "I am not. But Lizzy is."
Edmund turned to Lizzy, "What ? You are actually free for the first 2 dances ? May I have the honor?"
"Gladly! Actually This is exactly what we were hoping Mr Harison to not ask for tonite"
"So if Mr Harison asked you would have said yes for the dances ?"
"I don't know.probably. I had no other choice…"
"No other choice.I am sure someone would have asked you at the day of the dance"
Lizzy decided to acknowledge some part.
"Yes but not without catching a particular gentleman's attentions. This particular gentleman asked for the first 2 dances and I said I was already engaged! So I wouldn't have been able to say yes to anyone on the day of the ball & wouldn't have been able to sit down either!!"
"I am glad I saved you then, Ma'am. But remember, someday I may ask you to save me back!"
"I will happily do that Edmund. Anytime!"
"Alright, what say you both for a walk right now ?"
"No, you & Fanny may go. But I think I am better off indoors right now".
The day of the ball arrived. Mrs Norris swept thru the rooms trying hard to find fault wherever she could & then overturn Lady Bertram's orders about everything. She generally made a nuisance of herself. Sir Thomas, however, firmly told the servants to ignore her and continue.
Lydia and Kitty left for the Gardiners house early in the morning. Lydia declared she did not want to see anything related to the ball – no decorations, no new gowns of her sisters...nothing at all ! She and Kitty cried & consoled each other all the way till they reached the Gardiners house.
Lady Bertram was very excited - she had adorned a wonderful ball gown. It surpassed anything she ever owned. Sir Thomas had given her a small diamond and ruby brooch that morning. She wore it too.
Along with the brooch, Sir Thomas also gave his excellent advice on how the London ladies expected to meet a dignified quiet beautiful Lady Bertram that night. By now Lady Bertram had wisen-ed up to know that Sir Thomas liked her to be somewhat quiet - it added to her regalness he had said!
They stood near the door to welcome their guests.
"Sir William & Lady Sophia, its good to see you again"
"Mr Tentrot. Welcome.."
"Mr Bingley, Miss Bingley, Mr & Mrs Hurst.."
"My dear brother & sister Gardiner.."
"Earl & Countess of Wincherfelt"
"Mr Darcy, Miss Darcy"
"Sir Walter Phillips"
The guests went on.
Mrs Norris stood at a side looking at the scene. She had never felt so sidelined.
I feel so helpless. Come on, wake up. You don't want this Hertfordshire hussy to overpower you everywhere.
The Bingleys came over to say their hellos to Elizabeth and Jane. Mr Darcy & Georgianna came with them. Mr Darcy greeted Elizabeth very formally, just like he always did. It was as if yesterday's event in the park didn't happen at all. I should treat it the same way.I should not be embarrassed about it now thought Elizabeth.
After a while, Georgianna came up to Elizabeth and took her aside. Her face was flushed,
"Elizabeth, I have a favor to ask. Will you accompany me to the library ?"
"Of course. Are you ill, Georgiana ? You look unwell."
They were in the vestibule now.
"No, no. I am alright. I will have you know that I know absolutely nothing about this."
They had now reached the library.
"About what?"
"Go in Lizzy.."
Georgianna opened the door and pushed her in, "I am not allowed to be part of this."
She gently closed the door. Elizabeth now saw Mr Darcy standing at the far end of the room.
"Mr Darcy"
"Miss Bennet. I am sorry to have called you here. I..."
The library door was thrown open and Mrs Norris stood at the door. Her eyes were on Lizzy and she had a malicious smile on her face
"Aahaaa..I knew something fishy was happening here. You have some explanation to do.What are you doing here alone with this man ?"
Posted on Monday, 14 January 2008
Elizabeth was silent. She didn't know what she was doing there herself!!
Georgianna entered the room breathlessly, "Here I am Lizzy, lets find the book"
Mrs Norris eyed her, "Who are you ? What are you doing here ?"
"I am Georgianna Darcy of Pemberley. I requested Elizabeth to come to the library with me and hunt for a book, when I realized that I forgot my - er..fan, yes fan, in the drawing room. I just ran back to get it"
"Hunt for a book ? Why are you hunting for a book when there is a Ball waiting to start ?"
"Actually Elizabeth is lending me the book to take home today. Once the ball starts we wont get time to look for it, so we decided to come here before the first dance. This is my brother Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy."
"Oh, Mr Darcy of Pemberley, eh ? So Mr Darcy, I suppose you didnt know that your sister & Elizabeth were also coming this way ?"
"Actually I did know, Ma'am"
Georgianna interrupted him,
"Is that so ? I wonder why you are the only one doing all the talking.. Is this something you are cooking up as we talk, Miss Darcy ? Ms Elizabeth Bennet, I have never seen you so silent. Is Ms Darcy's story true ?"
Elizabeth finally spoke, "Yes, Mrs Norris. She is right. Mr Darcy, Georgianna, let me introduce you to Mrs Norris. She is Sir Thomas' sister-in-law by his first marriage. She is Maria's aunt"
And now let him feel ashamed of my new relatives as well as my old…..
"Elizabeth, are you sure there is no falsehood in Ms Darcy's account of the event ?"
"No, Ma'am. None at all."
Mr Darcy spoke, "Madam, please be assured that I would not do anything that either of us should be ashamed of. I came here to look for something my sister wanted, thats all"
"Very well Mr Darcy, if you say so I will believe it. Miss Elizabeth, I am sure Sir Thomas will want to know more when he hears about it"
With one look at the 3 of them, Mrs Norris left the room.
Georgianna spoke immediately, "Let me stand guard outside"
"Thanks Georgy, this should not take more than 1 minute"
"Ms Bennet, I am extremely sorry to put you in such a difficult situation. My only reason for calling you here was to give you this" so saying he removed a letter from his pocket & handed it to her.
"I wanted very much to give it to you today, so that you will have time to make inquiries tomorrow, should you wish to do so. I know you all leave London on the day after tomorrow".
She took the letter. He bowed & left the room. Elizabeth was alone. She expected Georgianna to come back in but heard her footsteps go away with his.
Georgianna accosted her as soon as Elizabeth re-entered the ball room.
Before Elizabeth had a chance to reply, Jane took her by the arm.
"Delighted to meet you, Ms Bennet. London has been talking about the two beautiful Bennet sisters and the two Bertram sisters... "
"Ma'am, you are very kind"
"My dear, I returned from a trip to France only 2 days ago. And all I hear is about the 4 of you everywhere. I am so happy to finally meet you. I last met Julia and Maria when they were kids. They have grown up to be beautiful girls too - just like their poor mother" she sighed. "We used to be friends you know..."
When she left Lady Anne, Col Fitzwilliam met her.
Mrs Norris crossed her path again
Elizabeth collected her thoughts for a moment before saying,
"Err no need of that. Now that you mention it.., I think she did say it was Midsummer Nights Dream. I must have remembered wrong just then"
Mrs Norris left her. Elizabeth smiled! She is sly indeed. Trying to confuse me to get to the bottom of the matter! Ah well.
Maria wondered the same. Col Fitzwilliam had claimed her first 2 dances. She rather liked him & knew they would have a good time. But who was Mr Bingley going to dance with ? Not Jane, not Lizzy, then who ?
The ball began. Sir Thomas & his lady opened it as they had discussed. Jane & Elizabeth soon saw that both were enjoying the dance. Their mother danced really well.
Elizabeth felt a pang of dismay when she realized that her father never really gave her mother this opportunity. None of her girls had ever seen her dance. Why, they had even seen Lady Lucas do a waltz with her husband occasionally. But never their mother.
Elizabeth herself had a very good partner in Edmund. They never ran out of topics to discuss. They were always conversing, always laughing. She passed Jane & Tom who were enjoying themselves too. As she did so, she caught Mr Bingley's eye.he seemed to be looking at Jane & her partner. Lizzy craned to
Just then she saw Mr Darcy staring hard at her. She colored.
The first 2 dances were soon over. During the short gap after the second dance, Elizabeth rested herself at a table. Her mother & Jane also came near her and sat down.
"Mother you dance so well. You & Sir Thomas made a very good picture"
Lady Anne who was approaching them heard Elizabeths comment.
Lady Bertram blushed.
"You were very very good" said Maria, now joining them. "You should teach us some of the dances that you danced at your times"
"Yes, mother, show us some new steps" cried Jane
"Sheessh. Not now girls. I will teach you one of these days"
When her mother was busy talking to Lady Anne, Lizzy turned to Jane and said softly,
Jane smiled back, "Yes dear Lizzy. I am glad that the marriage has brought forth so many of her hidden talents.while repressing some of her bad habits"
"Of course, we never know when some of the bad habits, as you call them, will come back. Lets hope she doesn't go back to them once the newness is over"
"Lizzy dear, think positive!! I am really happy for mother. She is a very happy woman since she married Sir Thomas. You know she has made him a very happy man too"
"I am not doubting their mutual happiness right now. Anyway, let us hope that it will continue to live on..for everyone's sake"
They were silent for a few minutes. Jane sighed and said,
"I wish there was something I could say. But."
"Don't! Don't say anything. We have discussed him enough even before we came to London. It was good to meet him once again, but I know now that anything more is just not possible"
"Why do you say that ? Did he say anything ?"
"No he didn't say a word. We cant really talk about such a delicate topic,can we ? But cant you see that his manner has somewhat changed ?"
"No, Jane. I know of no such thing. He is as amiable as he always was"
"Perhaps to everyone else but me. I think he is - I don't know how to say it - he appears to have slightly withdrawn. And we heard what his sisters think of us too. Do you really think he and I can ever mean anything to each other now ? I don't think so."
Elizabeth did not say anything more. She did not want to give Jane any false hopes.
Presently Jane said,
Elizabeth doubted if a change of scene would help Jane. Her affections were strong and genuine. Oh how I hate Mr Darcy & the Bingley sisters. They have injured her too much by their actions.
Mr Darcy chose the very moment to present himself at her side. This was his dance with her. Politeness demanded to hide her true feelings. Mr Bingley came to claim her sister & both the couples took their places for the dance to begin.
Mr Darcy was grave and quiet as always. However, Elizabeth did see him looking at Jane and Bingley very often. Jane and Bingley appeared to be in good humor; they were enjoying each others company as always. And we are hating each others company as always. But No, That is not true. His actions have indicated that he does not hate my company.
They danced in silence for a while. Elizabeth was determined not to start any conversation. Eventually Mr Darcy chose the most common subject of the day.
"Are you looking forward to going to Mansfield Park, Miss Elizabeth ?"
"yes, I am, Mr Darcy"
"Georgianna has had enough of London too. We ourselves will be leaving for Pemberley in 2-3 days"
"Oh, and does your party include no one but yourself & your sister ?"
"Your archness is quite lost upon me, Miss Bennet. You forget, I know you since a while now. The Bingleys have no plan of joining us yet"
Elizabeth offered no comment. Presently, the dance ended. Mr Darcy guided her back to the table, where he had found her.
"Miss Bennet, thank you for the dance. It is always a pleasure to dance with you. Please accept my good wishes for your journey and life at your new home".
All his daughters and his sons were having a very good time. His daughters especially were being sought after by some of the most eligible men in the kingdom. The Earl of Weavenworth, 28, and very handsome had danced 3 dances with Jane and was right now conversing earnestly with her.
Mr Wenwright, a private gentleman of a very noble line was seen with Maria at least for 2 dances.
Viscount Lidley had danced the first 2 with Julia and had asked for permission to call at Mansfield Park next month. He was to be in the vicinity at that time. Sir Thomas had gladly given it. Viscount Lidley was a thorough gentleman, just like his father. He was also an heir to a large estate.
Fanny and Mary had danced all dances, but none of the partners had made any special impression on Sir Thomas. To be sure Edward Sullivan had danced with Fanny twice, but Sir Thomas didn't want to encourage him.Edward is here only because his father is a good friend & there was no avoiding him. But he is a flighty fellow.not worthy of Fanny.
The most interesting affair, according to Sir Thomas was John Remlinger dancing 3 dances with Elizabeth.
It did not surprise Sir Thomas at all that John Remlinger should be attracted to Elizabeth more than any other girl present today.
Unknowing to anyone else, Mr Darcy had also watched the hit pair of the evening. He was counting minutes before he could safely leave without offending his hosts.
Goegianna too was keeping track of Elizabeth. Georgianna had met John Remlinger on a number of occasions and knew how nice he was. If it was not for my dear brother's case, I would say John Remlinger and Elizabeth suit each other very well.
The ball went on until very late. Mr Darcy & his sister were almost the first to leave. Elizabeth did not see them go. She was resting herself at a table and listening to her aunt, Mrs Gardiner, chat with Mrs Edward Remlinger, John's mother.
"Dear Mrs Gardiner, it is such a pleasure to finally meet you. Having so many acquaintances in common, it is so strange that we have not met before today"
"Yes Madam, you are right. I do keep hearing about you from Mrs Mathews and Lady Theresa. You do so much for the hospital located in the upp er slum area"
"Mrs Gardiner, my charitable work cannot be compared to yours. Why, what you do for the orphans is far more than what anyone else has ever done"
Mrs Gardiner blushed, "I don't really do that much. I just .."
"No, don't say that" she was interrupted, "You spend so much of your time there every week. You give them the most valuable thing ever - your time! I always say that it is very easy to give money to a charity & then forget about it. But you, Ma'am, give them your precious time. And that is what is most needed. Mrs Rose at the orphanage is all praises for you"
"Really Mrs Remlinger, I don't do much. I just teach them whatever I know, hoping they can use it some day."
Just then John Remlinger joined them, "Here is your punch mother. Mrs Gardiner, your water. Can I get anything else for you ?"
"No, thank you"
"Nothing for me either John. Thanks so much", turning to Elizabeth she continued, "it's a such a pleasure seeing you dance Miss Elizabeth Bennet. You are a lovely dancer."
"Thank you Ma'am"
"And your aunt here was saying that you sing and play very well too"
John heard that and said, "Oh, it's a pity we wont be able to hear you today, Ms Bennet. Let us hope we get that opportunity soon enough"
His mother sighed, "You all are leaving London so soon. Do you have any plans of coming back in the near future ?"
"Not that I know of Ma'am. But I am sure Sir Thomas wants us to come back often. I wont be surprised if we come back within the next 8-10 weeks or so"
John smiled, "I will look forward to that!"
They left the table as dancing began.
Mrs Remlinger turned to Mrs Gardiner,
Soon the ball was coming to an end. One by one people starting leaving. The family was busy saying their good byes to guests.
The Bingleys were one of the last to leave. Miss Bingley took her leave of Jane with the same insincerity as she did when they left Hertfordshire.
"My dear Jane, I hope we will continue to write to each other. It is sad that you leave London so soon". Jane, however was not to be deceived this time. She just nodded and smiled making no promises.
Just before going to sleep Elizabeth remembered the letter. But she was too sleepy to read it. I will read it tomorrow, she promised herself before turning off the light.
The Morrow came, everyone at the house was busy packing and putting things to order. This was their last day in London. They were to dine with the Gardiners tonight. It was to be just a small family party, with no one else invited. It was almost the end of the morning when Lizzy found time to read the letter.
She settled down in a cozy corner in her room and opened the letter
It was dated yesterday morning and began with
"Be not alarmed, Madam, on receiving this letter.
He went on to explain more about Jane and Bingley and why/how he separated them.
Elizabeth read on eagerly,
"The other part that must be explained is about getting no consolation letter from Mr Bingley after your dear fathers death.
With respect to that other, more weighty accusation, of having injured Mr.Wickham....
..For the truth of every thing here related, I can appeal more particularly to the testimony of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
I will try to hand you the letter during the ball, so that you will have one whole day at your disposal should you want to talk to Col Fitzwilliam or me or Georgianna about anything that I have stated here..I only add God bless you."
Elizabeth was stunned by the time she completed reading the letter.
Her thoughts were moving up and down like a see-saw.
After thinking about Mr Wickham she turned to her sister & Mr Bingley.
Elizabeth was interrupted by Mary who needed some help with her packing, then by Lydia who wanted to go out with her to do some last minute shopping.there was no peace for the next few hours. Elizabeth had no time to bestow on any thoughts about the letter.
In the middle of the day Col Fitzwilliam called on them.
He was charming and civil as always. During his visit, he found an opportunity to come to her and softly say,
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet, I was wondering if you had anything particular to talk to me about. If you do, I can propose walking for everyone. In the course of the walk we may have a few quiet minutes together"
Elizabeth understood what he meant perfectly. However she did not wish to make any enquiries of him. Mr Darcy would not have written about asking Col Fitzwilliam if he had not been sure of his cousin.
She merely smiled and said, "I thank you Colonel. But I do not have anything particular to ask of you"
"Does that mean you believe my cousin ? I am glad"
He did not wait for an answer and returned to his seat.
Elizabeth was not sure if she believed his cousin yet, but said nothing.
She had to wait until dinner with the Gardiners was over before going back to the letter again.
Elizabeth did not see any opportunity of talking things over with Jane, that day, nor was there any hope of it tomorrow.
It was soon morning. Everyone gathered for an early breakfast, before they started their journey home.
Lady Bertram was all excitement. Her daughters were looking forward too.
Finally they reached the main village at Mansfield. The mansion was situated on its outskirts. On way to the house, Sir Thomas ordered his carriage to stop. The 2 carriages behind his, stopped too. He got out & went to the last carriage, where Mrs Norris sat.
"Ma'am, we have reached your home. Let me help you get down from the carriage. John here will help you with your luggage"
Mrs Norris was surprised,
"What ? You expect me to go straight to my house ? Don't I deserve to be with my poor nieces - Sir Thomas, think of your poor daughters. Here comes someone to take their dear mothers place. They will need me during the new mistresses first few days at home. Indeed, I can be of much help to Lady Bertram as well"
But Sir Thomas was firm, "No, Ma'am. The family is just returning from a vacation. They need their time alone before any visitors are welcome.We will send the carriage for you tomorrow, for dinner. But today & the whole of tomorrow before dinner, should be ours to settle down"
Mrs Norris fumed and fretted but had to finally get down at her own home.
The 3 carriages moved on. The occupants soon saw the main house – its situation was very pleasant. It was a rather big, stately house. Lady Bertram saw it with pleasure.
The carriages stopped near the front door. Everyone got down too. Sir Thomas took his lady’s hand and looked at all the children,
"My dear dear family, Welcome to Mansfield Park"
X - Norris v/s Bennet
XI - Rival for Mr Dacry
What reply could she give Mrs Norris ?
"We all walked here together, I left them midway to get my fan. Why, I must have left them for about 10 seconds. But we are all in a hurry to get the book before the dancing begins, so I suppose they didn't wait for me in the vestibule & came in to look for it"
Georgianna left the room
Elizabeth had no time to read the letter, the dancing was about to begin She ran upstairs and hid the letter under her pillow.
She whispered urgently, "Elizabeth, we did not find the book & the book was Midsummer Nights Dream by Shakespeare"
"Lizzy, where did you disappear ? Sir Thomas wanted you to be introduced to Lady Anne. Lady Anne, my sister Elizabeth Bennet"
"I have been looking for you Ms Elizabeth. I hope you have at least one dance left for me ?" he smiled
She did have & he said he would look forward to it.
"Miss Elizabeth, Did you find the book then ? Georgianna says you were looking for Lovers Vow. Is that right ?"
"No, Ma'am it was not. I was looking for Midsummer Nights Dream. Did Georgianna want Lovers Vow ? There must be some misunderstanding. Let me go to her right away and set this straight"
Almost all the guests are here! The dance will begin in a moment. I hope my sash is tied correctly & me head gear looks alright.
Elizabeth knew Jane was dancing the first two with Tom. She wondered who Mr Bingley was going to dance with..
She must have been quite a dancer during her days. Elizabeth was glad that her mother was having a good time.
have a look at Mr Bingley's partner.it was Georgianna Darcy! So setup by her brother, no doubt
A look of contempt passed over her face momentarily.
Dear sweet Georgianna. I wonder if he runs her life for her!! Well.they will soon be strangers to me. Sooner the better.
Did he notice the momentary contempt on my face ? I don't really care if he did! He knows my thoughts on the subject!.... I wonder what his letter says. Is it possible that he is actually apologizing for yesterday's rudeness ? Unlikely.
"Yes, Elizabeth you are right. I was coming to say just the same thing. Ma'am you dance wonderfully well. I wish I was as agile as you. I am quite hopeless & have almost given up dancing"
"Thank You Lizzy, Lady Anne. Actually I am quite astonished at myself. I didn't quite think I would remember how to dance after so many years."
The girls nodded happily.
"Mother has been throwing some very pleasant surprises at us these last few days. Hasn't she ?"
"Lizzy, Mr Bingley asked for this dance. I will dance this one with him & then.I guess I will never ever have a chance to dance with him again"
"You know I had resolved in Hertfordshire never to think of him at all. I shall go back to my resolve and get over everything. Also going to our new house will help me set a different frame of mind".
He bowed & left, as soon as she said, "Thank you Mr Darcy".
Sir Thomas was a very happy man. His ball was proceeding very well indeed.
Sir Thomas considered John Remlinger to be the most eligible bachelor present at his ball. He was about 27, tall,handsome and had extremely pleasing manners. He was very well educated.
His estate was extensive and his income was of a clear 15,000 pounds a year. He also stood to inherit an earldom thru his uncle. Thru his mothers family, he was supposed to inherit an additional fortune. He had lost his father 4-5 years ago, his mother was alive and was present at the ball.
After their first dance, they had sat down for a quarter of an hour conversing. Sir Thomas had noticed John smiling and laughing and generally having a very good time with her.
After their second dance, he had taken her to meet his mother who was sitting at a table with Lady Anne. Sir Thomas had watched them together with pleasure. He almost regretted leaving town so soon after the ball. The girls will not have the chance to extend these acquaintances..may be we should come back to London soon.
"It is refreshing to meet such a beautiful and accomplished young lady who is neither shy nor haughty. Are all her sisters as accomplished too?".
..Two offences of a very different nature, and by no means of equal magnitude, you laid to my charge."
I was in Derbyshire and the Bingleys were in London when the news first reached Ms Bingley. She was the one who informed me about it.
I immediately sent out the consolation note which you received. As Ms Bingley knew about it, I assumed her brother knew it too and that he had written to you.
However callous I may see to you, I would certainly not stoop to a disgustingly low level and hide such a sad news about your family from him on purpose.
Ms Bingley let me know that a consolation letter had been sent from London too. I did not meet them for about 2 months after that. When I did meet them, I never thought of asking Bingley if he was informed. I assumed that he was.
I didn't want to touch the topic of your sister at all; fearing for my friends feelings. Since your coming to town, Bingley has let me know that he was kept in dark about your fathers death. Please forgive me if you think I have acted wrongly in this event.
This cannot be true.is Mr Wickam such a cheat ? No, it must be Mr Darcy who is lying. No, that cannot be true.Poor Georgianna, what she must have suffered.
Is it true that Mr Darcy could not see her regard for Mr Bingley ? Or was it the case that he did not want to see it ? Charlotte did once mention that Jane's feelings are not seen openly.but surely..
After that, in her bed she thought and thought about all that she had read.
She very much wanted to talk about Wickham.
She very much wanted to avoid talking about Bingley. But I will talk to Jane about Wickham.how could Wickham be such a liar.?
The party divided themselves into 3 carriages. One of the carriage was brand new, bought just a few days ago in London. Jane and Elizabeth were together of course. They took delight in looking at the countryside. Maria was also in the same carriage and pointed out interesting objects on their journey.