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Sibling Intervention
Chapter one
.
It amused him that things had come to this.
Easily entertained as he was, the country squire by the name of Benjamin Bennet had rarely
found company in ondon that was not trying to his patience.
Indeed, the young man was e!posed to two types of people on his visit to "own en route to
university# those that either pitied or turned up their noses at his meager fortune and poor
connections, and those that wanted to assist him in his appearance in Society $albeit with plans
and hopes of their own%.
&fter all his fortune, though inadequate by the fashion's standards, was not completely dismal.
In fact for any mother wanting to get rid of a daughter, Ben was a very modest catch. (ot to
mention his connections were far from poor if it included two particular bachelors that had yet to
be metaphorically chained with marriage.
"hese two gentlemen were considered great catches in the eyes of ondon society for they
were well)*nown, rich, young and handsome+
,ood lord, if his mother heard of this there was no doubt she would descend upon him and his
companions with frightening alacrity.
-Something must be truly diverting for you to not pass a comment Bennet, pray enlighten us..
Sha*ing his head from his reverie, his grey eyes flic*ered to his two friends.
"he first of which was a blond man holding a cue as he stood on the opposite side of the
billiards table, his unassuming air easily insisting a continuation in the discourse Ben had
forgotten the contents of.
"he second gentleman, a dar* haired man in possession of a pair of unusual blue eyes
straightened at the head of the table as he withdrew from the shot he too*, sending a ball into
the corner poc*et. /e too loo*ed at him, his brow raised in curiosity.
0r. Charles Bingley, the first gentleman, was a young man with a jovial disposition that matched
his fair countenance. /e was highly favored by most of society if it were not for his roots in
trade.
0r. 1it2william 3arcy, the second gentleman, was a more serious man who happened to e!ude
an air of superiority and effortless intensity. /e was even more favored than Bingley, though for
no other reason than his higher monetary advantage and title.
Certainly it was a good idea to *eep his mother from *nowing about his friends too well, Ben
thought, there was no doubt 0rs. Bennet would have Bingley and 3arcy married to his sisters
within the hour. "he thought made him smile.
-1orgive me gentlemen, I fear my diversion is nothing but a memory caught up..
-&h, a good one I hope,. Bingley said, -it does not do well to spea* of things that only manage to
stir bad memories..
-Be assured sir.. & cluster of balls scattered as the white collided. -4ust a reminder of my mother
and the fit of nerves I will have to endure when I return home, nothing to fear.. /e straightened
with a wider smile. "he prompting loo* from Bingley allowed him to add mischievously, -5f
course the source of it will li*ely be the e!clamation that Cambridge did me well to find her
daughters suitable husbands..
Both gentlemen chuc*led with 3arcy as*ing, -/ow many sisters do you have in the
marriageable age then Bennet, surely your mother is not as bad as you insinuate6.
-I'm afraid she is7 you must *now how the society mamas can be with only one daughter7
imagine that with five, and all unmarried..
"his admission elicited a low whistle from Bingley.
-8ou must be jesting7 truly she cannot be that bad..
Ben snic*ered. -(o, no. I only e!aggerate in the same amount as she does over my sisters'
virtues. 9est assured my mother is li*e every other that feels marriage is the only way to
happiness7 a pity that my sisters do not feel as she does..
-/ow singular,. Bingley noted aloud, -pray, how old are your sisters that they are not inclined to
the matrimonial state6 &re they not yet out6.
-0y eldest sister 4ane is just one and twenty7 Eli2abeth is twenty while 0ary is only eighteen.
0y other two sisters are si!teen and fourteen respectively..
-Interesting, my own sister has been inclined to marriage since she started school. &s* 3arcy..
-&s* me what6 &n affirmation of 0iss Bingley's desire to enter the matrimonial state is none of
my concerns,. stated the gentleman gruffly.
"he sudden sharpness to his speech would have been a cause for concern and might have
given offense if Bingley had not *nown his humors, and Ben had not made use of two year's
worth of character study on the older of his two friends.
3arcy's habit of becoming offensive when embarrassed was well *nown to them after all.
-Come now man, you are much too perceptive not to notice that Caroline has set her cap upon
you..
-I would rather forget for the sa*e of not ruining our friendship,. he admitted, only to have
Bingley wave him off.
-(othing you say about my sister will change my attitude towards you7 she is her own master as
I am mine. &nd if we ta*e slight pleasure in her attempts to entrap you then our friendship shall
not be terminated, is that not right Bennet6.
"he man in question chuc*led and clapped 3arcy on the bac* in an attempt to ease him, which
he succeeded in when 3arcy claimed, -If she were to achieve compromising me, I beg you to
shoot me. /ang any duel of honor..
-I would never do that 3arcy. 8ou may escape Caroline, but I will not:.
.
3arcy had been friends with Bingley since they began Cambridge and had become roommates
in Bingley's first year. 3arcy's withdrawn nature was tempered by Bingley's natural ease and
modest air. ;ithin a month, the two different gentlemen had somehow formed a friendship of
sorts that grew as months turned into years.
Bingley's unconditional friendship and never wavering trust in him provided 3arcy with the
confidence he needed in the society he shied away from, and as the only son of an estate
owner and well informed of the various businesses his family partoo* in, 3arcy had much to
offer Bingley in lieu of their completed educations in e!change.
/owever, it was Bingley that encouraged 3arcy to ma*e use of the ever growing mar*et of
trade, starting with a venture with a gentleman who resided in Cheapside.
Being raised as he was, 3arcy would never have thought that he would one day willingly enter
into the stench of trade but as a modern man he found that he had to *eep up with the changing
times, if only to maintain his family's economy.
Bingley much appreciated 3arcy's steely resolve and purpose, cultivated by being left to an
estate at a young age. 1rom there the two set off fresh from Cambridge to begin their lives in
their majority.
In Cheapside the gentlemen made the acquaintance of a 0r. Edward ,ardiner, a man of good
sense and intelligence who assisted them in e!panding the venture which increased the
fortunes of all involved.
;hile under the tutelage of 0r. ,ardiner, the men also made the acquaintance of the man's
nephew, Benjamin Bennet, a country gentleman with a small yet comfortable fortune, aged at
the time at only si!teen. Equipped with a sharp wit, intelligence and good humor to *eep up with
the company he *ept, the young man was an interesting addition to 3arcy's social circle.
"wo years later, 3arcy had come to truly cherish the companionship the two other men offered.
3espite being different in temperament in both to him and to each other, he found that they were
a much needed camaraderie outside of both his family and his sphere, both of which had done
little for him in recent years.
/is father's passing during his years in university, his underta*ing of his younger sister's
guardianship and the running of the 3arcy estate left the gentleman e!hausted and drained.
/is already reserved mien was increasingly withdrawing into itself and he felt acutely the need
for true companionship.
"han*s to his connection with Bingley and Bennet, he was less inclined to brood though still did
on the occasion where his friends and his cousin, Colonel 1it2william, were not available to hear
him. Such was the case at present# Bennet and Bingley were already fast asleep in their
respective seats on the carriage, leaving him to his devices.
3arcy *new that he should rest as well.
<isiting 9amsgate to see his sister required the energy to entertain her and his companions for
the remainder of the visit.
& sigh escaped him as he than*ed his good fortune that Bingley had sought other business
ventures in 9amsgate and that Bennet agreed to oversee a few matters of business his uncle
had in the same area.
It was not that 3arcy had grown dependent on the two gentlemen to *eep him company, but he
was rather nervous to see his sister again.
,eorgiana had never *nown her mother and was wholly dependent on a father that was never
there, until of course he died.
1inding the dead body of her father lying in bed as if he were asleep would be a trial for anyone,
especially for a girl of such a sensitive disposition as hers.
3arcy had done what he could with her upbringing, but he could not help the feeling of
inadequacy.
"he fact that he too was deprived of the familial assurance of his father and mother, made him
feel acutely his lac* of finesse in things relating to tender sensibilities.
/is sister had taught him some over the years though, little by little of how to feel assured of
one's affections and give in return, and for that he doted on her and her on him. /e supposed
his love for his sister was very odd due to such a gap in age, but he would not have it any other
way.
"heir physical separation had been hard though.
Ever since his business too* him from the haven of =emberley he was loathed to leave her and
eventually agreed to provide a companion for her, a 0rs. 8ounge.
3arcy had an in*ling that ,eorgina felt his recruiting a companion was his way of abandoning
her, her letters to him had ta*en a somber and melancholy tone and he hated the idea that he
was the cause of it.
/e was nervous of how his sister would receive him which was why he was arriving
unannounced.
=erhaps the surprise would render her unable to hide whatever had caused her sadness6
.
1urious was an understatement to what he was.
/e was sha*ing with rage, a white hot fury burning in him as he tried to thin* clearly, but all that
repeated in his mind was the mantra of that vile man's name# ;ic*ham. ;ic*ham. ;ic*ham.
But he tried.
/e tried vehemently to focus on the tas* at hand# /is sister.
She was practically sun* into the wingbac* chair, sobbing into her hands as she felt the
humiliation and the shame of her actions. -I am so very sorry 1it2william+brother, please, I am
sorry, I am sorry, I did not mean to. I did not intend for this:.
So small and fragile his sister loo*ed.
She really was just a girl7 a very dear, sweet girl who had not *nown what she was about. /e
could not blame her, he never could, but his anger was threatening to tear him apart and the
only reason he had not gone to dispose of the man for the cause was because Bennet was
*eeping him here.
"he younger gentleman had loc*ed the door on the both of them since the discovery of
,eorgiana and ;ic*ham.
1rom behind the closed door, Bennet said through the wood, -Spea* with her, we shall deal with
him..
3arcy felt indignation at being ordered around by a man that was very nearly ten years his
junior.
/owever, before he could demand to be freed, Bennet's words were spo*en calmly, a star*
contrast to his own state of mind, -/e does not deserve your time or your anger7 your sister
needs you more than he does..
/is fists ceased their sha*ing at his sides before 3arcy attempted a calming breath. ;al*ing
towards his sister, trying to be careful that his sudden closeness would not frighten her, but he
noticed her flinch and pull herself further against the chair as if afraid that he would stri*e her.
& wave of shame washed over him as he gently too* her hands in his and saw the redness of
her face and the puffiness of her chee*s. /er big blue eyes stared at him beseechingly, begging
him to understand, to forgive her. -1it2william+6.
-3earest, I am sorry that I shouted..
She sniffed wea*ly. -8ou were right to+I did not thin*+I thought+I thought he loved me+and
then+. /e let her tal*7 the rambling seemed to cease her tears as she gave him to understand
the events that led to this.
-I remembered him from when we were little and he was so very nice to me after you left, 0rs.
8ounge did not seem to mind+she told me he was good company to *eep and so I never
suspected+. She gave another sniff before accepting his offered hand*erchief. -/e said he
loved me and that he wanted to marry me+but because he did not have a stable income that
you would not let him+/e wanted to go to Scotland+.
-;hat did you tell him6.
-I said that I could not marry without you *nowing. 8ou and 9ichard are all I have and I did not)I
did not want you not to be there+it is such an important day, I wanted you there so much+but
he said no, that you would stop us and that if I loved him, he would be enough for me+.
-3id he try to convince you any further6.
,eorgiana gave a quic* sha*e of her head. -(o, he gave in and said I could write to you to
come to the wedding in ,retna ,reen, and that he would send it by e!press and hope it
reached you in time+. She loo*ed at him with those tear filled eyes and as*ed, -/e was not
going to was he6.
-I am afraid not+.
-I am sorry brother+.
-3id he ta*e any liberties before today ,eorgina6.
-/e had not tried to, at least+Brother I was so frightened, what)what was he going to do6.
So scared, so innocent7 3arcy's heart tore as his insufficiency continued to stare him in the face7
his dear sister almost ruined because he could not protect her as a guardian should. /e left her
with that abominable woman in the mercy of the most disguising cads.
/ow could he let this happen to her6
/e enveloped her into his arms. -3earest I am sorry, I am so sorry..
Beyond the loc*ed door of 0iss 3arcy's sitting room, the constable led ,eorge ;ic*ham and
his accomplice 0rs. 8ounge away7 elderly lady and young man shouting injustice and
profanities enough to ma*e a decorated soldier blush.
Bingley, who had remained only slightly agitated with their reactions thus far, clenched his fist
until it turned white at the words that left ;ic*ham's mouth, -8ou thin* you can do this to me
3arcy, huh6 ;hat would your father thin*6 (o one will want her now, you should just hand her
over to me: 8ou *now you only did this to yourself7 you should have given me my money: I
deserved to get my part in the fortune, I was his favorite: I deserved it:.
&lmost as hard as the constable tugged on the raving man did Bingley move to inflict a hard
punch to the cad's face.
0rs. 8ounge's incoherent words that played in the bac*ground of her accomplice were suddenly
silent.
-(ow that you deserved,. muttered Bingley, while Bennet restrained him.
Both men watched ;ic*ham and 0rs. 8ounge get led away, ignorant to ;ic*ham's howls and
feeling the sorrow of the 3arcy siblings acutely as it filled the hallway behind them.
.
--- Inn, Ramsgate
Dear Uncle Edward,
I am sorry to grieve you thusly, but I write this short note to inform you that your suspicions
about a man owing a large sum of money to one of your distributors in Ramsgate have been
confirmed. I am thankful that you had the foresight to procure his paper trail and send it with me
for it was of great use in apprehending him.
ind regards,
!our nephew,
"en
.
Chapter two
.
,eorgiana was severely mortified.
3iscovered with a man that was not her husband, alone and in a compromising position by none
other than her brother and his company6 She made a spectacle of herself7 she must seem li*e
a girl with no dignity and had not only made a fool of herself, but embarrassed her brother.
5h her brother: /er dear, beloved brother, how must he feel6
3isappointed, ashamed and angry7 most certainly angry, she had seen his face turn white
before brea*ing into a thundercloud and she *new that she had hurt him deeply.
But she had not meant to, she did not *now...
;ell, perhaps in a sense she had+
&s a young lady deprived of friendly companionship and the guiding hand of a mother or older
sister, ,eorgiana *new that she had dran* ;ic*ham's overly saturated words li*e honey, though
just as poisonous as it was sweet.
She *new that she had no confidence and little to offer other than her fortune, what was she to
do with a man who made her feel as if she were the most beautiful creature in the world6
Sitting in her room, alone with the thoughts of the previous wee*s leading to this, she *new that
she was viewing this ill)fated mista*e through rose tinted glasses.
"he young girl could not help but recount his loo*s, perhaps not of love, but something that
made her shudder. She did not want to admit the slight discomfort she felt when he would sit too
near, touch her too much or spea* of things that she was sure were not meant to be spo*en in
polite company. "his considered# why did she wish to run away with him6
& sigh escaped her trembling lips as a tear slid down her chee*.
Because I am wea*# because I wanted someone's attention.
& *noc* tapped against the door and rang about the silent room. Inhaling a sha*y breath, she
managed, to as*, -8es, who is it6.
-It is me, dearest, may we come in6.
>;e', his two friends, she recalled as a hotter flush pressed against her s*in at the memory of
the two gentlemen that had appeared in a flash at her brother's shout of angry surprise.
=ulling her pelisse tighter over her shoulders, she allowed them entry.
1it2william entered first followed by 0r. Bingley, a gentleman acquainted to her since her
brother's time in Cambridge, and another gentleman that she had recounted from her brother's
letters, an acquaintance in ondon, 0r. Bennet. /e was taller than 0r. Bingley and a dar*er
blond than he too, his eyes were not brown but grey and his ga2e was not as sympathetic as
0r. Bingley's was either.
"he horror she felt seemed to intensify as it was he who shut the door and loo*ed at her with a
hard ga2e, almost as hard as her own brother.
"he wooden floors suddenly became very interesting.
-,eorgiana I,. 1it2william began but his voice gave way and he cleared his throat.
She waited.
;as he to yell in front of his friends, or were his friends here to offer him support in the act of
casting her off6 &lmost immediately following that thought, she burst, -=lease do not send me
away:.
/is ga2e was confused for a fraction of a second before he came to comfort her in the way he
had before, he held her by her shoulders and forced her to loo* at him. "he same blue eyes, a
trait they shared with their mother, loo*ed at her, through her and in her. She tried to muffle the
whimper that left her lips with her hand.
-I am sorry, you have the right to+I)I dishonored you and have been compromised+I+I
almost eloped+I am ruined+.
-8ou are no such thing..
-But you saw+and he saw+and)and, you said he was a cad+and that he only wanted my
fortune+will he not tell, will he not ruin me6.
-(o one will listen,. said 0r. Bennet, -no one believes the words of a man in debtors' prison..
-/e is correct7 you shall have no fear of the man for he is loc*ed away. 8ou are not ruined 0iss
3arcy..
She opened her mouth to reply and then shut it again, loo*ed between the two gentlemen and
then to her brother in as*ance# ;hat about them6
-I have my friends' discretion on the matter7 you have my word that no one will *now about
this..
& thic* ball of saliva was swallowed as she wrung her hands in nervous agitation.
0r. Bennet seemed to have noticed this as he spo*e again, -0iss 3arcy, if I may, both Bingley
and I have sisters and we love them enough to do whatever is in our power to protect them. &s
your brother's friends, we understand the calamity of such an occurrence being made public
and will never spea* of this to anyone..
,eorgiana loo*ed between the two gentlemen again to find 0r. Bingley giving her a small smile
of encouragement.
-But+will you send me away6.
&nother quiet settled as she watched his feet shift.
-;e will both go away for a while7 if you would li*e we can return to =emberley instead of 3arcy
/ouse where you can properly recover from this ordeal..
-I made a mista*e and you)you are rewarding me by allowing me home6.
-It was the mista*e of youth ,eorgiana, I cannot fault you for being young,. 1it2william said.
-Being betrayed, I thin*, is punishment enough, would you not agree6. 0r. Bennet observed.
She gave a wary nod, before turning to her brother again. -But what if I ma*e the same mista*e
when you are gone again, or)or when I have to be out in the Season6 /ow am I to *now that I
will not ma*e a mista*e in my choice of suitor6.
0rs. 8ounge had acquainted her with as much of society life as she could in order to push
,eorgiana to accept ;ic*ham's proposal to ,retna ,reen. /er companion had been firm in
stating that the "on would judge her severely and would throw men less than ;ic*ham in her
way in order to *eep within the sphere of society.
"he young girl's fears had been incited and now that the mista*e had been made, she feared
that it would occur again and could not be stopped by the intervention of her brother.
1it2william did not seem to have an answer for this, but it was obvious that her words were
enough to have him contemplate. /is brow creased and his eyes flashed with worry at the ideas
his sister managed to stir7 ideas that could very well come to being considering her dowry and
lin* to the peerage.
0r. Bingley coughed politely to gain everyone's attention before he spo*e, -I would not wish to
overstep 3arcy, but if I may ma*e a suggestion6.
&t 1it2william's nod, he continued, -=erhaps if you were to engage with ladies whom you can
learn from, there may be a chance that they can lead you in the right direction. Surely you must
have a female relative you can count on for such support6.
-ady Catherine would be livid+.
/er brother snorted. -(o, she certainly would not do, and since &ndrew passed I do not thin*
ady 1it2william will be equal to the tas*+.
-/ow about my sisters then6. 0r. Bennet suggested getting everyone to turn to him in disbelief.
-Surely you cannot be serious Bennet:.
-5f course I am,. he replied with a careless shrug, -I was not going to suggest yours Bingley..
-3id you not agree to discretion6.
-8es I did, but since you do not *now of many ladies to assist 0iss 3arcy in her state, it was
simply an offer as I *now of five..
-;ill not a governess do6. her brother as*ed the room in general.
It was obvious he was frustrated enough with the turn of events and now to ma*e the matter
more complicated seemed unnecessary and yet not.
-"here is a difference, I believe, with having someone teach and having someone that is willing
to guide. & governess is well and good, but such a person is paid to instruct and not sympathi2e.
8ou may be luc*y to find one that does both, but considering the first companion of 0iss
3arcy's,. 0r. Bingley trailed with a wince.
& sigh followed. -If I were to agree to this scheme Bennet how is my sister and I to *now if the
information she were to give would be held safe6.
"he gentleman did not seem offended by the response and answered, -I trust my sisters with
my poc*etboo* in ondon. Be assured, I will demand their utmost prudence should both of you
agree to the proposal..
Seeing that her brother was at least considering the idea, ,eorgiana as*ed nervously, -;hich
sister would I write to 0r. Bennet6.
-"hat depends on which you would li*e to correspond with 0iss 3arcy. 0y sister 4ane is most
sensitive and attentive but I believe that she would try to justify your actions as well as
;ic*ham's..
&t her flinch, he gave an apologetic smile and continued, -0ary would do for she holds decorum
to a high degree, but I do not wish for you to feel worse than you already are..
1it2william agreed with a stiff nod.
-"he two youngest would not do either, they are much too close to your age and much too silly,.
0r. Bennet said, -I believe my sister Eli2abeth would do best considering the reason behind the
correspondence. She is considerate enough not to censor you and stubborn enough to insist
that though you made a mista*e you should not place fault too heavily on yourself..
"heir thoughts on the matter and the solution offered to them by the youngest gentleman in the
room accompanied the silence and eventually when 1it2william deigned to spea*, ,eorgiana
interrupted him as she quietly as*ed, -If it is possible 0r. Bennet, may I write to 0iss Eli2abeth6.
1it2william murmured, -If she agrees in turn..
.
#race-$hurch %treet, $heapside
Dear &i''y,
I feel I must apologise for my lack of correspondence, (own has been most diverting and Uncle
Edward is very intent on keeping me with business since my arrival.
I know such apologies and the e)cuses that follow are not necessary since it has only been a
week since I last saw you and our family, but you can imagine how much *uieter it is in our
uncle+s home than it is at &ongbourn.
,ccasionally the children will wail at all hours and the debates in the drawing room of our
relative+s home can get rather heated, but it is nothing compared to &ydia and itty+s arguments
over fashion and mama+s desire to lord over the good fortune of our family to our neighbors,
bless her and the girls.
-ow are they all. -as mama shown &ady &ucas the painting I purchased for the parlor, is father
still lying siege in the library with those new works I purchased. I hope that /ary has not
mastered the pieces yet, I hoped that they would provide her with a challenge until I returned.
0s for itty and &ydia, I daresay they must be bored with their new ribbons already and I
apologise for my lack of foresight.
1ow that the usual pleasantries are complete sister, I find that I must beg you to read the ne)t in
silence and swear an oath of secrecy on what I have to disclose to you2
Recently I accompanied my friends Darcy and "ingley to Ramsgate.
Uncle Edward wished for me to handle a problem with one of his distributors in the area and
because 0unt /adeline is with child he was loathed to leave her and did not 3oin us. "ingley
wished to conclude business there as well while Darcy wished to surprise his sister with a visit.
Darcy desired us to meet his sister before we carried out our business.
Imagine our surprise on the discovery of our friend+s sister in a most compromising position.
I, of course, was livid for I believe she is much the same age as itty. (he thought of any of my
sisters in such a state made me very angry indeed.
-owever, /iss Darcy as I understand is a very lonely young lady. -er mother passed when she
was young and she has no other female companions other than two aunts, both of which are ill-
e*uipped for assisting her at present.
/iss Darcy is not to be placed s*uarely at fault for her folly as was seduced by a cad by the
name of #eorge 4ickham, who was once a childhood companion of Darcy+s as well as a former
classmate of "ingley.
I believe 4ickham also has a reputation in $ambridge for being a gamer and there is little doubt
in my mind that he wished to align himself with /iss Darcy for her fortune.
I sympathi'e with /iss Darcy+s predicament as she has taken the blame solely on herself and
believes that her brother intends to cast her off. I know that you will have much to say to this
young lady who lacks in both friendship and guidance, and with three younger sisters under
your care, I daresay you are in constant practice. I ask you, on behalf of Darcy and his sister, for
your assistance.
I dislike ending things in such a somber tone for I know how much you love to laugh.
Unfortunately today+s events have shaken me as much as it shook Darcy, and now I feel the
need to suppress the urge to return home posthaste. 4orry not, you will not find me asleep on
the doorstep with this letter, but I beg you to keep an eye on our sisters as well as maintain care
of yourself.
I shall be with our aunt and uncle for a week longer before I return to $ambridge5 regarding the
previous matter /iss Darcy eagerly awaits your response.
!our worried brother,
"en
.
&ongbourn /anor, -ertfordshire
Dear "enny,
I must admit I was startled by your tone when I first read your note. I was worried that
something befell the #ardiners and yourself while you were with them, but even though that
was not the case what you relayed to me was 3ust as terrible.
I sincerely hope that /iss Darcy is alright and I daresay she must feel ashamed of herself.
I suppose with what you have said of /r. Darcy previously that he too is not e*uipped to the
task of assisting his sister, and for him, I am sorry as well.
4ith four sisters I suppose I would have some understanding, but you who have five sisters
would do much better do you not think. ,f course I am only teasing you for I know the young
lady does not wish to partake in any conversations concerning a witness to her folly.
I shall enclose a letter here for /iss Darcy if she wishes to have it. I will do my best to help if
she wishes the assistance of a woman who intends to be an old maid5 at least that is what
mama insists.
,n the topic of mama2 %he is insistent that the portrait you purchased was a &ondon rarity, a
masterpiece done by a great painter. &ady &ucas and /rs. #oulding were enthralled for some
time listening to mama+s retellings of this mystery painter though itty was trying desperately
not to laugh while I feared that /ary+s eyes would roll out of her head.
6apa was as you e)pected him upon being gifted the books you mentioned. (he satires have
kept him much entertained these last few nights and he rather en3oyed the poetry meant for
/ary 7she is e)tremely displeased8.
&ydia, of course, took this opportunity to run off again while papa+s guard was down, and 9ane
and I found ourselves policing her. /ama believes we must leave &ydia alone for she is still
young but that was before she spotted itty sitting on the roof. 9ane, at least, did what she was
told but only because she had to get -ill with the smelling salts.
/ary has not mastered the pieces yet, but she is determined that they will be con*uered by the
ne)t 0ssembly. itty did not get a chance to get bored with the ribbons for &ydia took them all
for the horse.
I adore the books of sonnets you left. I admit it was rather sly of you to leave them in the
drawing room for papa never found them and as of yet, knows nothing of their e)istence.
9ane wishes me to convey her pleasure at the music bo) you purchased for her for she adores
it to distraction. 4hen mama insists that you find her a husband, he must not only be the most
amiable gentleman on earth but he must also feel passionately about music, anything less will
not do:
I will close with that along with the wish that you send our love to our aunt and uncle.
4ith regards to your wish to return home2 never fear, you have taught us how to avoid
persistent admirers though we would not mind to having you at &ongbourn more often.
!our loving sister,
&i''y
.
Chapter three
.
1it2william 3arcy was a man that valued preparation, but nothing in his life had ever prepared
him for what occurred in 9amsgate.
"he words before him disappeared as visions painted red flashed before his eyes.
If only he had not hired 0rs. 8ounge. She was surely just as charming and li*able as ;ic*ham
was and even more devious in her schemes.
3arcy would not degrade the education his father had afforded his ill)deserving childhood friend,
but ;ic*ham was not smart enough to thin* of ,eorgiana, surely not at first.
/e had no doubt in his mind that ;ic*ham would turn to marrying mercenary, but the thought of
his sister as a possible target had not occurred to him. It was selfish he *new, but he was too
concerned about avoiding the traps of the society mamas to fret much about the possibility of
his sister getting married.
She was not even out yet: "he thought of her getting married was preposterous, she was only a
child:
5f course ;ic*ham had not cared and 3arcy had not even considered7 a foolish mista*e.
If he had not effectively led his dear sister into the clutches of 0rs. 8ounge perhaps this whole
thing could have been avoided.
=erhaps if he had thought about it more, perhaps he could have fortified himself and pressed on
with raising his sister on his own, companion be damned:
But after dealing with the unfortunate event of ,eorgiana's leaving girlhood, 3arcy's inadequacy
was too obvious for his pride and his sense of decency to bear, he remembered all too clearly a
particular morning in 4anuary#
,eorgiana had *ic*ed his door in that morning, tears strea*ing down her chee*s and hands
clutching the blood soa*ed sheets fearfully before she declared, -1it2william, I am dying:.
"heir cousin 9ichard had even blushed and immediately both men *new that their guidance
would be for naught without some sort of female aid.
ady 1it2william had served well, as did 0rs. 9eynolds and 0rs. ,rey, his house*eepers from
=emberley and 3arcy /ouse.
?nfortunately with the death of her oldest, ady 1it2william was to be left to mourn while the
house*eepers $though seen as surrogate mothers to the 3arcy children% was requested by
,eorgiana not to be informed of any intimate details.
,eorgiana had pride still, and had no desire to be stared pityingly at7 her self)worth too fragile to
even handle sympathy, but that left little option for support and that is what led him to this
moment#
&n!iously 3arcy watched his sister as she stared at the envelope in her hands.
Bennet had given it to him before he departed for Cambridge almost a fortnight ago, and for a
fortnight 3arcy had contemplated giving it to her.
But he hesitated.
;hat did he *now of this sister of Bennet6
/e *new that the younger gentleman loved all five of his siblings and spo*e fondly of them,
everything from their achievements to their follies. /e tried to recall anything particular about the
sister who had written to his, the young woman's name repeating in his head li*e a mantra# 0iss
Eli2abeth Bennet.
But nothing came to mind.
& blan* overtoo* him, and when some light began to shed on the name, it was gone in a
whisper of wind with ,eorgiana's agitated huff. She stood hastily and dropped the letter onto the
table.
-,eorgiana6.
She paced. -;hat if+no+but perhaps+no+but surely she must+no..
-;hat are you mumbling about dearest6.
"urning on her heel to meet his ga2e @ one of tormented confusion and hope mi!ed in equal
portions. -Brother, what happens if she is un*ind6 ;hat if she tells someone6 ;hat if+what
if+.
-/ow are you to *now if you have not read it6.
Collapsing again on her chair, she stared at the white envelope.
-3earest, if it will ma*e you feel better, you can read it aloud6.
-(o+no+I+.
3arcy was aware that he had coddled his sister, never encouraging her to create relationships
with others for he was not a social creature himself. But it was too late to pretend that he would
always be there to protect her.
It was pure chance and surely by the grace of ,od that he was able to intervene in time and
indeed, who is to say that it could not happen again6
If he wanted his sister to grow up and be a strong woman of character, she had to shed her
insecurity and do things on her own, and that meant trusting her when she could not trust
herself.
-I understand, but no matter what that letter contains I want you to write bac*.. ,eorgiana
loo*ed at him as he rose from his seat. -If her manner in address discomforts you, you need
only inform her that her assistance is no longer needed and I shall send it through my solicitor in
ondon. If not, then you need only try and ma*e a friend. "hat is all I as* of you..
She watched him leave their refuge in the library of =emberley and slowly she opened the
envelope, pulled out the parchment and began to read.
.
Eli2abeth Bennet huffed as she stal*ed through the woods towards home.
It was after the family had bro*en fast together that her mother insisted on visiting ady ucas to
share the news, demanding that her daughters occupy their time while she was gone. /er
father, having been distracted by his >business' $read# new wor*s to enjoy%, retired to the library
intent on remaining undisturbed for the ne!t few hours.
;ith both parental figures out of sight, her sisters had gone to see* their own amusements
which left them all distracted, just as their mother wanted.
Eli2abeth could not help but thin* that their mother was incredibly sly.
-i22y, lord you move faster than =uc*, slow down will you6. ydia moaned a few paces behind
her, pulling a brown stallion by his lead.
-8ou *now that I will not,. her older sister retorted, -should you not be moving faster than I6 8ou
have a horse do you not6.
-8es, but I have just e!ercised him and that was trouble enough, surely you remember how la2y
he is.. "he horse nic*ered in agreement, his mu22le pressing against Eli2abeth's shoulder,
probably e!pecting to be offered the apple hidden in the poc*et of her dress.
-;e cannot afford to waste time ydia, 0ama planned this: She wanted 4ane alone with him:.
-I *now that. ;hy did you thin* I got you6 I do not *now how to send him away politely and 4ane
certainly will not..
-&nd what of /ill, surely he did not get past her6. "heir house*eeper was instructed to curb any
inappropriate behavior in the home that she was charged with, and if /ill was anything less than
an obedient wor*er, she was just plain scary.
-3o not worry, /ill was sitting with them last time I saw. I hope that one of the maids were able
to call Aitty, wherever she may be, or even 0ary. ;here is that plain girl6 5h yes, now I
remember. 0ama insisted that 0ary join her. I did not understand because she would normally
ma*e me or 4ane attend her, but now that 0ary is not sitting by the pianoforte and her noise
cannot disturb the conversation in the drawing room+.
-8es, our mother has proved more manipulative than we gave her credit for..
-I suppose all mothers with daughters must learn,. the younger girl pondered, -do you thin* we
shall ever be li*e that6.
-et us hope we do not have to stoop to such things. (ow ma*e haste, let us be off to assist our
dear sister from that man's clutches, surely 4ane will be unable to utter anything edgewise with
the man. "oo many words for a gentleman and yet little sense to be had..
ydia could not resist the giggle that left her lips. -I am sure there is no man li*e him..
-et us hope so. 5ne odious man in all of England is bad enough, but two would be a curse
upon humanity. Blessed are the plainer girls for we would not have to withstand his over2ealous
attentions..
.
-So you see 0iss Bennet, it is truly a marvelous thing it is to be the one to view this most
beautiful scenery for surely there is nothing quite li*e it. "hough my home in 3over e!periences
something much more beautiful every day, the sun shines against the picturesque pond that is
nestled in the wood but can be seen from my bedroom window, I believe there are many fish
there. =ray, your father loves fishing does he not6 But of course, all gentlemen do. I am sure if
he were to as* he would be allowed such a privilege any time he wished. &nd if fishing does try
on his patience, as I am sure is impossible with five daughters and a mother such as yours, I
believe my estate is home to many pheasants and birds we may hunt, if of course he prefers
that endeavor over fishing which I find more superior in any case. 3o you not thin* 0iss
Bennet6.
-8es sir,. 4ane Bennet murmured though was hardly heard as the man continued his
monologue. She tried not to roll her eyes, but with the way he was carrying on it was almost as
if he wanted to court her father rather than her.
(ot that she would want that.
(o, if 0r. Stewart wished to court her father, than she was sure they would both be happy
together. 0r. Bennet would get his dose of human oddities and 4ames Stewart would be able to
tal* until his tongue dried up to his heart's content.
(ormally she would school such thoughts for 0r. Stewart was a perfectly nice gentleman, but
she would not have it for her family to be insulted thusly: -+if fishing does try on his patience,
as I am sure is impossible with five daughters and a mother such as yours+. ,ood grief:
5f course the man noticed none of the inner conflict in the serene e!pression of /ertfordshire's
beloved 4ane Bennet, as he continued to spea* endlessly of something and nothing all at once.
Buite a good thing then, Aitty thought in mild amusement as she watched her eldest sister's
hands clench and unclench around her embroidery.
"hough a gentle soul her sister was, she was no one's fool.
"han*fully 4ane was spared another unheard reply and Aitty forfeited her observations as the
doors of the parlor were opened, admitting her two sisters, ydia and Eli2abeth.
-0r. Stewart, how nice of you to call on us,. ydia shrilled, bouncing into the room in her usual
jubilant fashion. -=ray, I apologise that I did not hear of your arrival sooner, I fear my sisters are
quite droll these days:.
-5h there is no need to apologise, indeed 0iss Bennet is most curious and in possession of
such an interesting personality that I enjoy any conversation she is willing to spare for me. I now
understand why she is the county's gem for there is no one that matches her in either beauty or
grace. Such a rose your dear sister is that I find myself blessed to have found her,. he claimed
in a flourish as he stood to bow at both sisters. &s he straightened, he gave 4ane a win*.
Sitting beside her sister, Aitty tried not to laugh. 5h lord. /e loo*ed li*e something flew into his
eye.
-0iss Eli2abeth, my you loo* very becoming today, good weather I believe6.
She smiled. -8es, sir of course, but I was not one to believe that weather played a role in one's
beauty..
0r. Stewart's wide smile dimmed slightly.
-5h no, I was merely wondering, considering you are always out for wal*s+yes, I do not believe
it is quite the thing for ladies as delicate as 0iss Bennet, or as withdrawn as 0iss 0ary and
0iss Catherine or in possession of a short span of attention li*e 0iss ydia, it was merely an
observation you understand, I meant no disrespect..
&nd yet you did with each sister you named, Eli2abeth thought with a slight smir*. 9eally7 where
did their mother find this man6
-5h none at all sir7 it is an interesting thing to bring up though. ,ood weather ma*es for a good
mood, whether inclined to the outdoors or not while bad weather ma*es for a sour mood for
surely it is the hand of ,od that commands such things. I find that an interesting inspection and
I bow to your powers of observation,. she said sweetly, -&fter all, everything in this life is sown
by the hand of ,od, chosen and decided upon due course and if such bad weather is to be
brought by his &lmighty hand, who are we to be happy in the midst of such gloom6 >"is not right,
you agree6.
1lustered due to her portrayal of him as a man of godly principals and prowess that the Bennet
family was acclaimed for, 0r. Stewart bowed again in than*s.
-I much appreciate your understanding which I believe is due largely to your father's education.
It is a shame you are not a man 0iss Eli2abeth, for surely I would say you are one of the
quic*est I have ever met. But for now, though I would wish to debate with you upon this further,
proving a lady wrong is not gentlemanly and for that I withdraw..
"urning to the room again, he bowed.
-&dieu 0iss Bennet and company, may your day be as bright and beautiful as the spot of colour
upon 0iss Bennet's chee*. &dieu:. /e bowed once more and departed, not waiting a minute
longer to hear anything else.
;hen the front door shut and ongbourn 0anor was left in silence, the sisters e!changed
glances before a fit of giggles bro*e out.
-I see that i22y has been reading with 0ary again, than*fully she did not quote 1ordyce or I
would have embarrassed us all,. ydia claimed.
-(ot with that performance,. Aitty disagreed, -I have never seen such overplayed 2eal towards
an acquaintance we do not enjoy entertaining, in my life..
-8ou should be than*ing me, if I had not run off to get i22y, you and 4ane would have to listen
to more of that man's nonsense..
-(ot nonsense,. 4ane said, -it was actually quite *ind of him to thin* so well for papa7 fishing and
hunting for nothing but the as*ing, not many men are that generous..
-8es, all papa needs is some good sense and then we shall never get him bac*..
Eli2abeth hummed in agreement, -Indeed Aitty, and remember 4ane, it is not generosity that
spurs him for he has it in his head that you shall marry him..
-a: 8ou cannot marry him:. ydia declared, scandali2ed, -Even though you are fast becoming
an old maid it would not do for you to marry such a man:.
-3o not fear ydia, I have entreated our brother to find our dear sister the most amiable and
intelligent gentleman he can find,. Eli2abeth soothed, -and should our dear Benny fail, 4ane will
have to ma*e do with papa's amusing human oddity..
.
!ou must think us *uite cruel to say such things and must think us *uite shocking indeed, but
what I have learnt is that if you are not willing to see the follies of others you shall always think
them above you instead of being on e*ual ground.
%ociety of any kind looks for our faults in order to e)pose us, control us and break us. If you do
not laugh at them for trying, you risk making yourself unhappy being unable to please them and
truly the only person you need to please is yourself.
I know in the beginning of this letter that I stated I would not antagoni'e you with an apology for
what you endured, but seeing as you might find me e)tremely improper and may wish not to
write to me further, I shall2
I shall apologise that you are young, I shall apologise for you making a foolish mistake and I
shall apologise that you have suffered as a conse*uence to it. Unfortunately things like this
happen and what is done is done, all you can do is hold the lesson you have learnt from this
e)perience and remind yourself that you are not the only one who makes mistakes.
0s I know that you will be scandali'ed by what I have told you of a gentleman that is not bad,
but insults the family in which he wishes to be aligned to, and that I have told you that you are
not to be thrown into hell for a mistake you unknowingly made, I shall end on that note and bid
you, in the words of /r. %tewart2 0dieu:
;or all you have been through, and what you may encounter in the future, #od "less.
!our shocking correspondent,
E. "
.
Chapter four
.
&ambton
Dear /iss "ennet,
I apologise for the lateness of this reply.
I admit that I do not *uite know how to go about this correspondence considering the reason for
its circumstances5 I also hope that the re*uest for your assistance is not a hindrance to yourself5
I do not wish to be an inconvenience.
!our letter did not shock me5 I was surprised but not shocked.
/rs. ! $it is crossed over so hard that there is a slight impression on the page% /y companion
told me that for a lady to feel shocked she must feel offense towards herself and you did not
offend me, though I admit that no one has ever told me such a thing before. I believe it is
because they deem it improper, but your story lightened my mood, does that make me very
bad.
6erhaps considering what I have done I may be, I am not proud of myself for hurting my
brother and embarrassing myself in front of his company.
!ou must understand, my brother is very kind and is the person I feel most close to in the world.
I do not wish to upset him or in3ure him in any way and yet my actions< $her writing trails as if
she is lost in thought% I apologise once more5 it seems I ramble *uite a bit. I have not written to
anyone outside of my family before5 pray forgive me for the uselessness of this letter.
I only wish to thank you for offering your help, but if it troubles you, I will not be too offended and
I will release you from this proposal should you wish it.
/y apologies and thanks, as well as the returned sentiment to you and your family, #od "less
#. D
.
"he post arrived that morning with a letter delivered to Eli2abeth two wee*s after she had
written to the young girl. "he content of the envelope was a short note filled with apologies and
a confused mess of thoughts7 she read in silence before tuc*ing the page into the folds of her
dress.
It was obvious 0iss 3arcy did not *now what to do and that she was incredibly embarrassed by
the reason for their communication. It was also clear that the young girl was painfully shy and
with little e!perience interacting with anyone outside her family, she had no idea how to behave
around others.
She must be lonely, Eli2abeth thought with a frown.
(o wonder she continuously apologises for everything. Bad enough that she was almost
entrapped by a cad, but to have her lose faith in her own judgment6 She was just a girl,
confused and insecure7 what occurred must be crippling to 0iss 3arcy's self esteem.
&nd then she receives my dreadfully improper, ill)mannered letter: She thought.
& sigh passed her lips before she could stop it and almost immediately she was arrested by the
worried ga2e of 4ane. Eli2abeth made a move to sha*e her head to dismiss her sibling's
concern, but Aitty had voiced it not a moment later, -i22y, is something troubling you, was the
letter not good6.
-Is it from &unt 0adeline, is the babe born6. ydia as*ed eagerly.
-(o, not bad news I assure you,. Eli2abeth answered, -I was simply musing..
-Indeed6. 0ary prompted, raising a brow as she loo*ed up from her reading. -8ou are not of a
disposition to muse melancholy i22y..
-I must agree, what thoughts do you muse dear daughter of mine, that has brought about such a
sigh6. "heir father joined in, folding his papers and leaning against his chair to properly see the
e!pressions of his children as they gathered around the brea*fast table. -Come now, family is
nothing if we hide secrets amongst ourselves..
-Surely I am allowed to *eep my thoughts my own6.
-But of course my dear,. 0r. Bennet claimed, -however, such sad contemplations are better to
be aired so that they may be properly injected with the good humor of your intelligent father.. /e
wiggled his brows at her, getting the assembled to giggle.
"han*fully Eli2abeth was saved from brea*ing confidence when her mother arrived at the
brea*fast table from the *itchen loo*ing put out.
/er mother's e!cessive pout was easily pic*ed up by her father who decided to offer his wife
with a way to vent whatever was troubling her with a simple, -,ood morning madam..
-;hat is so good about it6. she demanded in a sul*y huff.
&nd so the discourse began.
"hough Eli2abeth would have been annoyed that she or any other of her siblings would be so
easily cast aside by their father if he were to find entertainment elsewhere, she found that the
scene she had parta*en in earlier was e!actly what young 0iss 3arcy must be missing.
3etermined, she e!cused herself from the brea*fast table, leaving behind three sisters who
loo*ed torn between hearing their mother's eventful woes and going after a sister that was
famed for her unpredictability.
ydia had already chosen the amusements of her mother's early morning news over the
mystery her sister presented while 0ary and Aitty watched their eldest sister trail Eli2abeth with
her eyes. 4ane, who *new Eli2abeth the best, recogni2ed the squaring of her sister's shoulders
and the defiant rise of her chin.
4ane shoo* her head slightly and flashed her younger sisters a smile of reassurance.
.
&ongbourn /anor, -ertfordshire
Dear /iss Darcy,
I find that I should be the one to apologise and I shall not argue with you on that score. It was
rather foolish of me to be so very forward5 I believe it is a habit of mine when I write letters for if
I am embarrassed by what I have written, you shall not know of it and I shall appear more
confident than I actually am.
I do not feel uncomfortable at being asked assistance, rather I feel out of my element in this
circumstance.
(he only advantage in my ac*uaintance is that I am rather observant and that I am surrounded
by many interesting people.
!ou see /iss Darcy, I am a singular young lady who likes to sketch the characters of those I
meet and those I see every day.
I believe that since we have gotten off on a rather rocky start 7purely my fault I assure you85 I
shall properly introduce myself and leave my bad manners out of reach of our correspondence.
/y name is Eli'abeth "ennet, my family and close friends call me &i''y.
I am the second oldest of si) children5 my mother calls me the =wild+ one of her daughters for I
dearly love to traipse around the estate and can disappear for hours on my rambles that e)tend
to the wilderness of my home county.
I am the closest to my older sister 9ane, my brother "en and my father. I believe mama says
that I am certainly his daughter for I much prefer my father+s library to the drawing room
entertaining guests.
I like the company and the society of others, as I have already told you5 I love to sketch the
characters of those around me but I find that people are constantly changing whereas books
always remain the same.
%ketching characters can be very interesting but can also turn you *uite cynical which is why I
balance it out with the works of %hakespeare, a variety of sonnets, adventurous tales of e)otic
places along with the occasional ;ordyce 7a favorite of my sister /ary8.
6erhaps we shall start our correspondence properly this time if you wish to, I do wish to lighten
your mood considering what has occurred and if you let me, I would be glad to communicate
properly without shocking you or upsetting you.
6lease tell me anything you wish for as I promised my brother, you have my silence on all and
everything you may wish to communicate to me.
%incerely,
E. "
.
0usic danced freely through the halls of =emberley, filling the grand house with the melody of
0o2art. 3arcy had left his study door ajar, allowing the rela!ing tunes of his sister's music to
soothe his agitated mind.
/aving been removed from 3arcy /ouse without announcement, letters had to be sent to
associates with his apologies as he cited personal matters as a reason for his disappearance
from town. "hat had been three wee*s ago and he was still declining invitations to dinners and
balls.
/is disappearance from his ondon home was not publically *nown and though it ir*ed him that
he was still dealing with such frivolous things, he found that it was the perfect distraction from
what occurred a month past.
/e *new that his duty was to ensure that all business $social and financial% was completed
accordingly, but his duty was also to his sister and he had failed her.
"he guilt weighed on him, but was pushed aside briefly as he buried himself with unnecessary
wor*.
/is steward would enjoy a few wee*s of repose, though that would not stop the painful ache in
his chest as he was stuc* in the dead of night staring at the canopy of his bed.
3arcy had not slept since 9amsgate and he was truly e!hausted, however, no amount of wor*
or even meditation over the events that transpired could grant him the Sand man's slumber.
&t least ,eorgiana was improving.
"he letters from 0iss Eli2abeth Bennet arrived steadily to =emberley for the past two wee*s and
it seemed that his sister was being lifted ever so slowly from the pit of despair she was in.
She smiled just yesterday at something amusing 0rs. 9eynolds had said.
/e could not deny that such improvements to her countenance were few and far between and
as such it was hard to *now whether his sister was truly getting better or only getting better at
hiding it from him.
"he siblings had spo*en little despite having the whole of =emberley to themselves, but 3arcy
could not face his sister without the shame of his mista*e.
It frustrated the staff as they watched the siblings wal* on eggshells, none of them had any idea
what had caused their master and his sister's return sooner than usual, but it was obvious that
something had changed and no amount of wor*, music or good scenery would alter their
behavior.
3arcy's steward, 0r. ;il*ins peered from the ledger he was adjusting as a clear *noc* was
heard and the music came to a halt, the voice of a maid carrying into the study, -& letter for you
0iss 3arcy..
Even though the music had stopped, 0r. 3arcy's shoulders had rela!ed slightly and the deep
furrow in his brow was barely a crease.
.
&ambton, Derbyshire
Dear /iss "ennet,
I am glad you wrote back and still wish to write to me, it is rather lonely here with 3ust me and
my brother, though I suppose it is better than what I imagined considering what I have done<
$her handwriting trails as if lost in thought%
$/er handwriting ne!t seems hurried% %ince you have been so kind to introduce yourself to me, I
feel that I should do so as well. -aving written *uite useless letters to you in the past few weeks
in e)change for your lively correspondence, I feel that it is only fair and as you said in your
previous, >"etter late than not at all?.
/y name is #eorgiana Darcy $the >3' slants slightly, indicating her hesitation%, I am to be si)teen
in a few weeks and live with my brother in the county of Derbyshire.
/y brother and my elder cousin $ol. ;it'william share guardianship over me for as long as I can
remember. I do not know my mother for she passed when I was very young and my esteemed
father succumbed to a heart attack when I was ten years of age.
I do not travel much, only ever to &ondon for my /asters, to ent to visit my aunt and cousin,
and recently to Ramsgate $the word >9amsgate' is clipped and tiny compared to the rest of the
sentence%.
I am a rather plain girl compared to you /iss "ennet, I do not think I am *uick enough to study
one+s character, pray is this pastime amusing. 4hat do you find so interesting about it. -ow
did you learn of it.
;orgive me, it seems I ask too much, you need not share your secrets with me /iss "ennet for
it is to be other way around am I correct. $/er handwriting suddenly gets larger% ,h dear that
was rather impertinent, I apologise /iss "ennet.
$"here were light impressions against the page as she stopped to thin* of what to say ne!t%
/y brother believes me to be very accomplished, I play the pianoforte and sing very well, he
and $ol. ;it'william always say, but I do en3oy losing myself to the melodies. /y favorite is "ach
and I adore playing /o'art for it is my brother+s favorite and it makes me happy to ease him
especially of late $the writing trails, again lost in thought%, do you play /iss "ennet.
/y brother has spared nothing to my education, my /asters include all the ladylike things such
as language, dancing and drawing. I en3oy learning new languages and I like dancing though I
have not made use of it very much as I am not yet out, I prefer drawing on some days, but the
feeling is not always lasting and I fear that I have many uncompleted works.
I also adore horses, it is a family trait I think for my brother is an avid rider and I am told that so
were my mother and father. /y brother taught me how to ride when I was nine, when he
returned from $ambridge for a holiday, $her hand writing wavers% a few months after he left, our
father was bedridden. /y brother was home for all of two days before he passed.
4e still ride though, my brother and me, we always do when he comes home, and we do so
en3oy it. It was once a habit that we had to ride in the break of dawn to see the sun rise and to
ride in the afternoon 3ust as the sun sets.
,h my, I fear I have rambled long enough.
I had not even reali'ed that I have reached the end of the page. I apologise for the length /iss
"ennet.
$"he words ne!t are rushed%
(hank you again for continuing to write to me.
%incerely,
#. D
.
&ongbourn /anor, -ertfordshire
Dear /iss Darcy,
(here is no need to apologise, there is no such thing as a long letter I should say. I *uite en3oy
the correspondence for it provides a distraction from my sisters and their silliness and my mama
and her nerves.
It is not that I think ill of my sisters or my mama, but you see, they are always over'ealous when
balls are to be held.
(he society in -ertfordshire is rather limited, but such a *uaint county as ours can en3oy the
familiarity of its people so no one really takes much notice to my mama+s loud ravings of her
daughters+ virtues, or how wild my two youngest sisters act on occasion that they feel e)tra
playful.
I do not take much notice of mama anymore myself, she is forever trying to get me and my
sisters married because she believes that that is the only way to true happiness for a lady.
-owever, I find happiness in many things and all do not depend on pin money or a husband+s
annuity.
/y character sketching, I suppose is something of an e)ample.
!ou see my father is *uite observant himself and as a scholar he en3oys wrestling with different
ideas. -e has taught me to see people+s actions and address as a way to decide whether one
has good character or not for these speak much louder than what usually recommends a
person in our society.
(ake my sister 9ane, she is the loveliest creature in all of -ertfordshire, everyone says so.
%he is fair, kind, diplomatic and all that is good. It may be because she is my favorite sister, but I
find that no one rivals her beauty and goodness. -er address is polite and her actions are
always ladylike, her guiding hand has taught me to reign in my wild behavior if only to avoid
embarrassing her which I want never to do. I like to think that because of her angelic *ualities
and universal kindness to others that that is why the people of -ertfordshire adore her so.
4e once had a neighbor, a /iss &ucas, she is not prettier than 9ane by half as my mama likes
to say, but she is perfectly amiable and friendly. %he does not have a fortune or a title and she
admits to drawing, playing and singing terribly, but none of that changes the fact that /iss
&ucas is a person of unassuming nature and intelligence.
0s for me, a self-portrait I find unfair to both the person being sketched and the person viewing
the portrait. I do not know how people in -ertfordshire view me and whether I am in a positive
light as my sister, but I do not really care to know.
,dd it might seem5 what people think of me is none of my business.
I only use character sketching as a form of amusement and a way to figure out how to continue
discourse with someone I am not very well ac*uainted with, to lessen the strain that a
conversation between us might bring.
;rom what you have told me, you are an avid lover of music and you adore your brother greatly,
from the style of your letters I am to understand that you are *uite shy. In polite conversation, I
would ask about your favorite composers 7"ach for yourself and /o'art for your brother8 and
what pieces you en3oy playing and what you think of pieces that I know of, I imagine such a
conversation with you would carry as a conversation with my sister /ary.
I fear that I shall overstep in a moment /iss Darcy, and ask you if you do so en3oy spending
time with your brother.
I can see that you think the world of him and that he adores you enough to teach you himself
how to ride and to find pleasure in the things you do for him. I know that considering what has
happened, you may feel shame at being near him but it would appear to me that you are in
need of companionship and surely your brother will be willing to offer it if you asked.
"e well /iss D, and have faith in your brother+s sense of forgiveness
%incerely,
E. "
.
&ambton, Derbyshire
Dear /iss "ennet,
$/er handwriting is sha*y% I find that I am in need of your counsel for that is the problem that is
most constant in my heart. (hough I am ashamed of what has happened due to my foolishness,
I find that I do not particularly care if I did not marry a man of fortune or title, but rather how my
brother will be affected.
-e is the one I am closest to in the world.
0s you do not wish to embarrass your sister, I would not want to embarrass him. It grieves me
how much I have pained him with my imprudence, but I do not know how to amend it.
4e do not talk of what has happened and though he does not treat me coldly, it is hard to
discern my brother+s thoughts. -e is a private man and not one prone to show much emotion in
any case, in my company he is all politeness but keeps me at such a distance<
I want to do the things we used to before Ramsgate, I want to ride with him and speak to him of
the silliest nonsense I can think of and have him read to me like he did when I was a child, but
he is always in his study claiming not to be disturbed and when I do try and suggest something,
his severe mien discourages me so.
Do not misunderstand5 his bearing is something I am used to for he has many responsibilities
and he is still young.
I fear that all the duties placed upon him by our father+s death has led him to become too
serious and reserved. -e was getting better in the years preceding his ac*uaintance with /r.
"ingley and your brother, but my stupidity has caused it to reverse their efforts and I wish to
amend it.
6lease help me /iss "ennet, I want to fi) things with him but I do not know how.
#. D
.
3arcy handed the reins of his stead to the stable)hand and removed his gloves as he made his
way into the house. /is usual ride to chec* on any disputes with the tenants as well as his
e!amination of a few houses that were damaged in a storm was uneventful, but at least
provided him more room to thin*.
Inwardly he scoffed. I have thought enough and it leads me nowhere.
,eorgiana's improvement had slowly declined and only seemed to worsen upon the discovery
that he was searching for a new companion for her.
/is actions, aimed to give her some semblance of independence from his company, did not
bode well with her for it seemed that she had misunderstood and too* it that her new companion
was a sign of his desire to e!tend the distance between them.
/e had no idea how to act around her for she would not meet his ga2e and he did not *now the
words to e!plain himself to her.
-0r. 3arcy sir,. a footman greeted him just as he was about to ascend the stairs to the library in
an attempt to bury himself in the most pitiful tragedies he could find.
-8es6.
"he footman bowed and offered him the envelope and with 3arcy's nod, the man departed.
/e assumed the letter was from a business associate and was rather surprised to find the
delicate script of a woman's hand, the words# &ongbourn, -ertfordshire written as the return
address.
.
Chapter five
.
&ongbourn /anor, -ertfordshire
Dear /r. Darcy,
I apologise for this breech in propriety, but I beg of you to read this missive to its completion as
what I have to convey is most important.
Rest assured5 I have forwarded this to my brother in $ambridge to send to your home so the
chance of this communication misdirecting would not occur. /iss Darcy has told me stories of
your fear of entrapment and I do not wish to worry you.
0s we are unac*uainted and know nothing of the other besides the connection of our siblings5 I
feel that I should caution you about my habit to overstep 7which I am sure you are aware of by
now8, however, I feel that it is better to violate the boundaries of decorum for the sake of my
new friend+s emotional state.
I do not wish to alarm you as I desire your trust and understanding on this matter.
0s you know I have been e)changing correspondence with your sister these past three months,
and I find that she is a girl confused, neglected and wholly without the self-assurance of a
young lady of si)teen.
/iss Darcy is still a child and she has done wrong by entering a most dangerous situation with
a *uestionable young man. %he has not granted me the particulars, but it is obvious that she is
deeply ashamed and hurt about what has happened.
,n her part, she believes that she has nothing to offer a possible suitor and due to her
insecurity she is unwilling to see sense.
I have found her to be a brilliant girl who is *uick in mind, willing to learn, keen of music and
reading, in possession of a sweet, 3ovial disposition and affectionate heart especially towards
her brother. I do not doubt that you love her as much as she loves you.
!ou, as the closest person to her heart5 is someone of great importance to your sister and she
holds you in the highest esteem. 1ot one letter goes unattended that does not mention your
good *ualities. %he cares for you deeply and only wishes to make you proud and not embarrass
you.
I hope at this point I have succeeded in making you guilty.
I would pray for your forgiveness of my audacity, but it is fair trade for what you have let the
poor girl endure.
I do not speak of your choice in companion or your lack of mobility towards the *uestionable
gentleman, despite knowing both his habits and his opportunistic nature. I speak of the way you
have shut your sister out.
%he has suffered due to her own folly which she feels keenly even when she writes of happier
topics, and though she has been recovering somewhat, at least from our communication, I find
that her improvement is impeded by your action to distance yourself from her.
I shall not claim to know your disposition, to claim understanding simply through the biased
perspective of a beloved relative would be foolish, but I do not think you are a man to cast your
family aside thusly.
!ou may have your own reasons for keeping your sister away and looking for a new
companion for her, however, I do not think it is a suitable e)cuse to allow your sister to believe
she has been abandoned by you.
(hough you may claim otherwise, /iss Darcy has written to me her feelings on the matter and
this may be the reason for her own withdrawal of you. I know that I have no place advising you
on a course of action regarding your sister, but I cannot stand by and let her wither in silence
due to a miscommunication.
Re*uest a song from /o'art or apply for her presence for a morning or afternoon ride as she
tells me you used to do *uite often before the incident, or simply speak to her, but I beg of you
not to keep her away.
4hen siblings drift, the distance cannot easily be amended or forgotten so I humbly ask for your
ac*uiesce on the matter.
I warn you that it may be a -erculean task, but according to /iss Darcy, you are not one to bow
to defeat so easily.
(here, I think I have taken up enough of your time and rang up *uite a bill with this missive5 I
shall close the same way I did with /iss Darcy in my first letter to her2
;or all you have been through, and what you may encounter in the future, #od "less
;aithfully,
E. "
It was twilight when the four Bennet girls and their mother ascended the carriage, the sound of
the coach pulling away from their ancestral home heard from 0r. Bennet's study.
In the very same room, ydia pressed her face against the glass.
-Surely papa, you are the cruelest of all fathers..
0r. Bennet lowered his boo* slightly to reveal his quir*ing brows. -0y dear girl, they are just
going to an &ssembly not leaving for the Continent..
-But why must I be e!cluded from merriment6 0ary will not have as much fun as I would if I
were allowed to go:. she wailed, turning from the window to give her father a big pout in an
attempt to mirror her mother.
-Come now ydia, a social gathering is not the only place you are allowed to have your fun.
?pon my word, Sir ;illiam claims that I am a most singular gentleman for allowing you girls
such freedom. (ot many fathers are willing to educate his daughters as I have you and your
sisters..
-&nd I am grateful papa.. She too* the seat across his des*. -But if you always insist on loc*ing
me up here all the time however am I supposed to find a man I can love6.
-3o you not love me then dearest6.
ydia made a face at him and the two shared a silent loo* which ended in the young girl
giggling. -=apa you *now I do, but I am spea*ing of marriage..
-8ou listen to your mother far too often, you are young ydia and I will enjoy having your
company before your young man comes along to steal you away..
-3o no fret for though 4ane is the jewel of /ertfordshire she is not yet wed so whatever are the
chances that I will6. "hough her words were said in jest, the way she slumped against the
wingbac* chair showed how much it hurt for her to admit it.
;ith a sigh 0r. Bennet shut his boo*, reaching across the des* to hold her hands.
-8ou, li*e all my other children, are the handsomest people in all of England..
ydia frowned in disbelief only to have her father continue, -If no man calls for 4ane it is only
because her goodness intimidates them, if no man calls for Aitty it is only because her giving
nature ma*es it hard to see where her affections lie, if no man calls for 0ary it is because her
accomplishments can be matched by no one and if no man calls for i22y it is because her
quic*ness leaves many far behind..
-&nd what of me and Ben6.
-;ell Ben is his own man and he is not to be fooled by common beauties. "hough he may
pretend to be entrapped upon further study I find that he only does this to send your mother into
nerves. Bless him..
-&nd what of me7 am I to be forgotten6. she demanded getting 0r. Bennet to chuc*le and pat
her hands.
-8ou my dear girl,. he began, -are too young..
-8ou really are cruel papa..
-&h, but that depends how you see it my dear for while you lament your inability to attend the
&ssembly, your sisters are under siege by the community's gentlemen,. he declared with a win*.
-"hose young men may fight for my daughters' attentions but *now that no one in this
neighborhood is good enough for my children..
"he youngest Bennet child watched her father pic* up his boo* and begin to read again, the
implications of his words causing another giggle to burst from her lips.
-0ama will not be pleased to discover how you instruct /ill not to allow young men here at
ongbourn7 it ma*es perfect sense why no one other than the ucases call..
-8es, but >tis a pity that your mother is just as good at her schemes as I am. I believe our 4ane
might have to cleverly escape a marriage proposal by my favorite young man..
-;ill he attempt it tonight6.
-I believe so. I have already sent a letter to your brother to arrive home posthaste to challenge
0r. Stewart to a duel should I be underestimating my daughters' intelligence..
.
-;hat on earth is he about6.
-I do not *now 4ane, stay near,. Eli2abeth whispered as they too* a turn about the room, their
arms hoo*ed together and their bodies bumping with how close they wal*ed.
"he &ssembly had just begun already filling with the noise of conversation and the giggles of
young ladies and their mothers as marriageable young men greeted them.
-I am disturbed i22y,. her sister murmured, -he has said the strangest things and I am worried..
-;hat has he said now6 3id he go on about how well)informed mama was about the types of
colours to use in his home or did he compliment her tastes in white soups6.
-(o, it is much more serious+.
-(ow sister do not leave me in such suspense,. Eli2abeth returned, careful to scan her
immediate area of any ears that may eavesdrop on their dialogue. -=ray, what did he say6.
-/e told me how well I loo*ed,. she whispered, her tone caught between confusion and terror.
-&nd that worries you dearest6 Surely you are not serious7 you always loo* well..
-8es, but he loo*ed at me so very oddly and it made me e!tremely uncomfortable, and as Sir
;illiam greeted us 0r. Stewart informed me that his sister who has gone to Italy, has gifted him
with the softest most lu!urious bed clothes. I do not understand what he is about:.
-,oodness that sounds most inappropriate: /as he as*ed you for the first set6.
-8es, but than*fully Aitty decided to intervene and state that we must listen to 0ary's first song
and so I did not answer him,. 4ane said getting Eli2abeth to sha*e her head.
-5h 4ane I am so sorry that I was so distracted, had I noticed I would have *ept him away
myself..
/er sister noticed much sooner than the rest of her family that Eli2abeth was not her usual self
these past few wee*s. "hough it worried 4ane greatly that something troubled her most beloved
sister, she *new that Eli2abeth would sooner deny it than spea* of it before she was ready to.
-It is of no consequence, but I do not feel very secure in his presence. ;ould it trouble you to
*eep my company no matter what 0ama insists6.
Eli2abeth chuc*led. -3o I ever do as 0ama insists6. &t the still worried loo* of her eldest sister,
she tightened her hold on 4ane. -3o not worry sweeting, I shall *eep you safe and we shall
inform Aitty and 0ary of our scheme as well, for it shall ta*e all of us to *eep 0ama at bay..
1rom the other side of the &ssembly room, their mother shrilled, -4ane dearest, 0r. Stewart
wishes to secure his set with you:.
-&t times such as this I wish that =apa had insisted that all his daughters stay at home,.
Eli2abeth muttered.
-It is unfortunate that we are of age and are close to becoming old maids,. her sister lamented
with a sigh as both of them moved through the crowd towards their table. -;hy could we not be
as quic* as Charlotte to immediately apply for a post as a governess as she did at eighteen6.
-Because you are far too beautiful and I am far too impudent, it is helpful at least that we believe
in the unpopular notion of marrying for love. If 0r. Stewart offers for you, graciously denying him
would hurt 0ama far less than it would hurt you..
-&nd what of 0ama6.
-3o not fear7 you are under the protection of Eli2abeth Bennet after all.. Catching the eye of her
other sister sitting behind the pianoforte, Eli2abeth could not restrain the sly smile as she added,
-&ccompanied by 0ary Bennet's e!cellent accomplishments..
.
3arcy was in the most serene mood he had ever been in many wee*s, all than*s to the
une!pected $and improper% letter sent to him by 0iss Eli2abeth Bennet.
-Brother would you li*e me to play your favorite6. ,eorgiana as*ed7 turning slightly on the piano
bench to give him a cheerful smile, a smile he *new was no longer a faCade of contentment.
/e smiled in return. -If you would be so *ind, though it matters not what you play for music can
never be awful when played by my wonderful sister..
& delighted blush coloured her chee*s and she turned towards the ivory *eys once more, the
melody washing over him li*e a healing balm for all the silent, torturous days and nights he
spent believing his sister blamed him for what happened to her.
&s he sat in the settee in the music room of =emberley, he could not help but than* the young
woman he had never met.
;hen 0iss Bennet's letter arrived to him, he had been confused, indignant and surprised all at
once. ;hat would Bennet's older sister want to write to him for6 Surely she *new how unseemly
it was to e!change correspondence with an unmarried gentleman, thin* of the scandal:
But of course Bennet's sister was no idiot.
In the first note she had penned to him and which he read almost constantly to the point of
being able to recite it, he found a decidedly intelligent, opinionated and e!tremely stubborn
woman.
0iss Bennet had e!plained in the note that ,eorgiana's improvement would not only depend on
her ability to forgive herself, but also the effort he put into assuring her that she was not to
blame.
/is poor sister had thought that she was the one at fault and that she was the cause of the
distance he put between them:
3arcy declared the absurdity of such a thought for it was obvious that he was the one who
erred.
She read his mind in this and e!plained that because ,eorgiana adored him so much, she
could never thin* that he was to blame for anything.
&fter this e!planation the letter came to an end with the conclusion that if 3arcy wished to help
his sister, he could not shut her out no matter what his first instinct is. She bid him good luc* in a
tas* most gentlemen would not ta*e up and signed as she did her first letter to ,eorgiana# -1or
all you have been through7 and what you may Dencounter in the future, ,od Bless..
It did not escape his notice ether that with 0iss Bennet's frustration towards him, she did indeed
leave quite a bill for postage and left a lot for 3arcy to meditate on.
/e had tried to stretch a hand towards his sister as 0iss Bennet suggested, but it seemed
,eorgiana's own isolation caused her to come up with e!cuses to avoid him.
In frustration he breeched decorum and wrote 0iss Bennet bac*, all but pleading her assistance
with as much dignity as his pride would allow, slipping his note with a letter ,eorgiana was to
send to /ertfordshire.
0iss Bennet consented and offered her counsel, playing invisible mediator between the two
3arcy siblings and being informed by both parties on the development of the improving
relationship.
/e had much to than* her for, but a part of him was disappointed that her letters would no
longer reach him for the breech in propriety was far too ris*y to continue the correspondence.
It was only a wee* since their communication came to an end and with the increasingly
improved spirits of his sister as well as the security 3arcy once again felt as her guardian, the
0aster of =emberley could not help but wonder if he would ever meet the young woman who
repaired his life so quic*ly.
.
0r. Stewart was most seriously displeased.
"onight was to be the night he secured the hand of the lovely, graceful and sweet 4ane Bennet.
/e had planned to entrap her with the passion of a man violently in love and intended to spend
the rest of the evening romancing her until she would beg him to declare himself, for anything
less would brea* her heart.
"he gentleman had the consent of the mother, a woman he would allow only the most minimal
of visits once his business in /ertfordshire was completed and the marriage to 0iss Bennet was
achieved.
/e even had the approval of the father and the second sister, both of which were appraised in
0eryton as the most intelligent and well)read individuals the county had to offer. & poor sight,
for even the *nighted Sir ;illiam believed that an old fool and his favorite daughter were the
most intelligent.
;ell no matter. "hey thought he was a man of godly principals and e!cellent breeding, what did
he have to complain about6
&t the moment7 almost everything really+
"o say things were not going to plan was a gross understatement.
;henever he tried to claim a dance with 0iss Bennet, her sisters would demand to be stood up
instead and due to her desire to uphold family obligations, 0iss Bennet would then abandon him
to her sisters' amusements.
;hen he finally got to secure a set with her and claim it too, 0ary Bennet would play a lively
reel and the whole room would be between him and the future 0rs. 4ames Stewart.
By the time the night was at its completion he had e!changed less than one word in ten to his
prospective bride since her arrival and was left to watch her carriage pull away into the blan*et
of dus* towards home as the cloc* struc* midnight.
If he was disappointed, 0rs. Bennet was livid and she made sure her daughters, the footman
and the horses *new it#
-;hat do you mean by your games girls, must you ruin your sister's future happiness thusly6.
0rs. Bennet began almost as soon as the carriage door was shut and they were afforded what
available privacy a closed coach could provide.
-,oodness Aitty, i22y, have you no consideration for 0r. Stewart6 8ou saw very well that he
wanted to dance with your sister and yet you demanded his attention in any case: 1or shame, I
*now that he is a handsome gentleman with his eight thousand a year but really girls, he is
much closer to declaring himself to 4ane:.
-0ama we do not want to marry him,. Eli2abeth stated, -we simply wished to dance and since
there were so few gentlemen and so many ladies, I for one wanted to have a full card..
-0ethin*s the same 0ama7 we must set a good e!ample for ydia after all,. Aitty continued,
-how is she to thin* that balls and assemblies are any way entertaining if she thin*s no one will
dance with her6.
-5f course someone will dance with my ydia, she is a delightful girl: But just because you wish
to ma*e yourself a good study for your youngest sister you must remember that your eldest
requires happiness too, and your behavior has put it in jeopardy:.
-0ama it is not so terrible,. 4ane soothed, -as long as my sisters and myself enjoy the night's
activities I am content..
-5h tosh my 4ane, you are too good indeed:.
-0ama what did you thin* of 0ary's performance, I thin* she managed it quite well considering
she only mastered the piece yesterday,. Eli2abeth said, congratulating her sister with the
attention she was owed.
-8es she played marvelously, why ady ucas was just telling me that Charlotte has herself a
new employer and the girl to which she is to act as companion to is an e!cellent musician, she
plays for hours and ever so beautifully, or so Charlotte claims in her letters,. 0rs. Bennet stated,
-;hy with the way ady ucas carries on, you would thin* it was her own daughter that has
such talent:.
.
"he sound of the carriage coming to a halt roused ydia from the settee in her father's study,
putting her embroidery aside she scrambled to the window and pressed her face against the
glass.
-=apa they have returned:.
-So it would seem,. 0r. Bennet said without loo*ing up from his boo*. -3o not shout my dear, >tis
late and we would not wish to disturb the servants'..
-0ama is bound to do it soon enough,. ydia pointed out as she gathered her s*irts in one hand
and reached for her father's arm. -Come papa, let us away and attend to them, I want to hear
the news:.
Sha*ing his head with a chuc*le he set his boo* aside.
-Be assured ydia you might get all that you wish, for what remains of today and the remainder
of tomorrow and the wee*s to come until a new gentleman arrives with more than five thousand
a year to offer as his annuity. ;ith this I hope your silliness will be indulged..
-;ell if you allow me out li*e the rest of my sisters you need not indulge me and I would simply
find my own amusements,. she remar*ed petulantly.
-8es, but it amuses me so to handpic* which oddities are e!posed to you so that you *now
which to ha2ard away from and which to simply laugh at. If you really are my daughter than you
shall appreciate my insightfulness in this..
ydia could not help but sha*e her head.
-If it pleases you papa, but do not get carried away with your own cleverness for you may
accidently permit 0r. Stewart to wed 4ane and then you will not be nearly as clever by half..
.
Chapter si!
.
Benjamin Bennet, only son of the Bennet family and heir of ongbourn was a decidedly
intelligent young man of eighteen7 with his fair hair, his fine features and his grey eyes, Ben, as
he was more fondly called, was a combination of boyish handsomeness and good sense. "he
latter of which was solely due to his father and his favorite sister's efforts.
/is mother's frantic nerves were still cause for great silliness especially where his sisters were
concerned.
&ll five, she determined, must be wed. Certainly the only true happiness a lady can obtain is in
the safety and protection of her husband and his annuity.
/e could hear her fanatical ravings about pin money and jewels, fine carriages and the softest
of sil*s7 all of which 0rs. Bennet deemed necessities for surely her daughters were not reputed
beauties for nothing:
;ith their good humor, vitality and une!plained sweetness7 it was a wonder his father had not
had to *eep his gun close by as each sister was released into society.
"he elder 0iss Bennet, the sensible, angelic 4ane was /ertfordshire's crown jewel. "ruly, the
angels themselves must be using her as their e!ample for nowhere was natural human
goodness found so easily. She was too *ind to trifle with anyone, but her powers of diplomacy
were well honed to such a degree that it was almost manipulation. /owever, her habit to wear
her heart on her sleeve made it difficult to discover the young woman's true thoughts.
"he second 0iss Bennet, the witty, dar* haired belle Eli2abeth was well)learned and intelligent7
the most informed and modern lady of all of England. /umor was her game, one that she
played avidly with her father and himself as they enjoyed viewing the follies of others in a light
so refined that the stupid would thin* they sprouted compliments. /er quic* mind was no match
for anyone and her quic* temper had her blowing *isses one minute and spitting fire the ne!t.
"he third, his older twin 0ary was the family's musician and 0eryton's most accomplished. (o
one for miles could play as well as she, and even if such a person were to be found, they would
be arrested by her surprisingly large vocal range, peculiar for a girl who said very little. /er
mien, however, was so severe that her admirers could only watch from afar.
"he forth sister, the aptly nic*named Aitty was of an adventurous nature that *ept their family
entertained with her e!uberance and easily given familial affection. "he only flaw their mother
saw was Aitty's habit of climbing high places and refusing to come down, an inclination that was
the prime cause of their mother's nerves since girlhood.
"he youngest of the Bennet children at barely fifteen, ydia was an enthusiastic horsewoman.
/er pension for snea*ing out at daybrea* to ride her brother's stallion, =uc*, had gotten her
more than a few lectures by both parents# 1rom her mother, the claim that no man would marry
such an unrestrained girl and from her father, the desire that she choose a less costly form of
entertainment to occupy her time for surely the girl spent more money on ribbons for her horse
than ribbons for herself.
;ith 4ane's mas* of serenity, Eli2abeth's unpredictability and quic* tongue, 0ary's severity,
Aitty's liveliness as well as ydia's love of freedom and horses, their mother mourned that her
daughters may all become spinsters.
(ot that it mattered much to his father, himself or his sisters.
;ith his birth, the entitlement on the estate became null and his strong constitution ensured that
there would be no hedgerows for his mother and sisters in the unfortunate event of his father's
death. 8et still his mother would suffer from a fit of nerves at any sign of either his or his father's
health failing#
-5h 0r. Bennet, surely when you die we shall die too,. she declared, -stric*en into poverty and
wholly reliant on the *indness of my brother ,ardiner: 8ou must allow us to go to ondon7 the
girls must have a proper Season however will we find suitable husbands for them otherwise6.
-(ow I hardly thin* that necessary my dear. I am sure your son would not turn you or your
daughters away,. his father responded in a bored tone.
-"here is always a possibility,. 0rs. Bennet would insist, -Ben may marry some society 0iss and
insist that he brea* all ties with us: ;hy, without your presence, he might very well consent. &s
a young man, he would give up his beloved family for the wiles of an artful woman: "hat is it, it
is decided: 8ou are not to e!pire until your daughters are married, do you hear me 0r. Bennet6.
-Be comforted madam,. his father would say, patting her hand, -I may surpass you..
Ben could not help but chuc*le. "he dynamics of his family were rather curious and through his
time at school he had seen nothing a*in to it, ma*ing it more obvious how fortunate he was.
"he carriage jostled as it travelled through the village and from the screen of his window, he
could see the loo*s of the residents as the carriage rolled by, the dust raising and settling in the
air as the horses continued forth. "he townspeople's astonished ga2es and unembarrassed
pointing at the fine carriage did not go unnoticed by the occupants within the vehicle as the
murmurings of their arrival began.
(o one *new that it was just Benjamin Bennet returning from Cambridge, no one suspected that
it would be he who was inside the lavish coach with an unfamiliar crest. But of course he had
not e!pected them to.
"he Bennet family was the only gentry in 0eryton and most li*ely the most well off, but their
economy was not high enough to afford such a carriage as this.
Ben could practically hear his mother's ravings over the e!pensive transport, her loud flutters of
going distracted at the mere thought of it, and then her nerves. 5h her nerves:
-3arcy old man, I sincerely hope you decide to stay in the carriage when we arrive..
"he older gentleman smir*ed. -Is that a warning Bennet6.
-&ye, you *now how mothers can be and with five unmarried sisters, mine will prove to be too
much of a trial for even you to bear.. 1anny Bennet, bless her, was a woman of mean
understanding and a bundle of nerve, and li*e all mothers with daughters, she only desired what
was best for them.
5n Ben's other side, Bingley chortled. -,ive 3arcy more credit, the fact that he has deflected
Caroline's attentions is enough of a testament. &ccording to your cousin 1it2william, that alone
would ma*e you much more equipped to handle (apoleon..
-Say what you will,. 3arcy began, -but handling matchma*ing mamas for your majority years
enables proficiency at avoiding unfavorable meetings..
-8es, I fear that such a proficiency can ma*e it trying to ensnare a wife, fear not, our amiable
companionship will ensure that you do not become a hermit for I hardly thin* 0iss 3arcy would
approve,. Ben said causing the laughs to increase as Bingley added, -&s neither would my
sister..
-I would never allow it..
-&re you sure6 8ou seem most inclined to run away from any maiden that goes near you..
-8our humor is ill appreciated Bennet..
-"hen why do you wish to smile so6.
-Bingley, you are incorrigible..
-"hat I am afraid is my doing, though to be fair my sister has taught me just as well..
Bingley chuc*led and clapped a hand against his thigh. -I cannot wait to meet the young ladies
that have so made you Bennet, upon hearing your renditions of your home I am eager to see if
your description of them is fitting..
-8es five sisters, I imagine it a trial,. the other agreed if not a bit reluctantly.
-I should say the same of you Bingley. /ow you came about turning into such an agreeable
gentleman with your siblings is a wonder..
-(ow give Bingley some credit,. 3arcy said moc*ingly, -who do you thin* helped him learn
tolerance6.
-&nd patience,. Ben added too eliciting an amused head sha*e from the other gentleman.
-0y sisters have made me mindful of the mercenary, though I wish I had not learnt from my own
family.. Bingley gave 3arcy an apologetic smile which the older man waved off with a slight
smir*.
-I told you, I have acquired a proficiency at avoiding being compromised though I imagine I will
be in for more practice once you settle the estate..
-It is unfortunate that you require a mistress to handle your household, even more unfortunate
that 0iss Bingley had to hear of 3arcy's presence in the scheme,. Ben remar*ed.
-I apologise, but there is nothing for it,. the man said with a sigh, -I need to occupy as much of
my time with learning the business of an estate if I am to succeed in my father's wish of
becoming landed gentry, being occupied by too many things is not something I can afford to do
as you both *now, I am in the habit of spreading myself too thin..
-;orry not old man, with the 0aster of =emberly at the helm you should be well on your way to
being richer than he..
"he usually jovial man could only muster a slight smile. -I do not doubt 3arcy's ability to assist,
but rather I feel indebted considering I too* him away from his sister. I *now you would not have
come if you felt less inclined to the tas*, but I find it unfair that I have only Caroline's
bothersome companionship to offer you for the remainder of it..
-Come now Bingley, it would seem that you are trying the game of a match)ma*ing mama,.
3arcy said with a sha*e of his head. -It is of no consequence I assure you7 ,eorgiana all but
forced me out the door when I told her of your plan. I thin* she believes me idle at =emberly
these last few months..
Still, Bingley did not loo* convinced. Ben would not blame him.
&fter the events of the summer, both gentlemen were worried about the state of their friend,
such a huge failing on his part would sha*e even the strongest confidence and 3arcy believed
he was nothing without his silent self)assurance.
Bingley had stayed in ondon and when he grew tired of the society, he left to Bath on the
demands of his sister, and so had no occasion to chec* up on the condition of the 3arcy siblings
other than a few letters of very vague detail.
Ben *new little more.
"hough he directed a few letters between Eli2abeth and 3arcy, he had no intention to read them
and indeed, only required the *nowledge that nothing improper was being e!changed, though
he laughed at the mere thought of it.
ater, when he e!pressed a wish to *now the state of the 3arcy siblings from his sister,
Eli2abeth had been her usual unpredictable self and declared that it was of no consequence#
-Be assured Benny, 0r. 3arcy and 0iss 3arcy are perfectly at ease now. and wrote nothing
more on the matter.
-I guarantee you gentlemen, you need not worry yourselves. I have 0rs. ,rey and 0rs.
9eynolds for that,. 3arcy declared, -(one of this regrettable silence. If it pleases you, I thin* of
this only as sociable consultation for a friend, a venture given blessing by my sister..
-So 0iss 3arcy has ordained it to be so6 "hen surely it is law: et business be done:.
Ben chuc*led. -1or it to be so Bingley, you would have to give up your secret. ;here is this
estate you have been so decided on when our good friend 0r. ))) brought it to your attention6.
Bingley straightened, puffing his chest out proudly as if he had already purchased it and
declared, -(etherfield..
.
"wo miles short of that destination, nestled neatly into the flowing landscape of the county of
/ertfordshire in the library of ongbourn 0anor, the Bennet sisters were assembled.
>It is universally acknowledged that a man of good fortune must be in want of a wife,? began
Ben's letter to his family, --owever little known the feeling and views of such a man may be on
his first entering the neighborhood, this truth is so well fi)ed into the minds of the surrounding
families that he is considered as the rightful property of someone or other of their daughters.?
Aitty grinned. -It is as if mama had stood over him as he wrote:.
-/e has learnt well has he not6. ydia as*ed chee*ily before yelping as the needle accidently
pierced her finger.
4ane shoo* her head at her youngest sister and too* the embroidery from her hands. -ydia,.
said she in a gentle chiding fashion.
-8ou *now that I do not li*e these pursuits,. the youngest Bennet complained only to be silenced
by her sister's stern ga2e. ydia sighed. -I shall try again, but only to please you for it only
frustrates me..
0ary shoo* her head with a quiet chuc*le before continuing to read the missive of their brother#
-0s it was, I always thought that this was an e)aggeration, however, I accompanied my good
friends /r. "ingley and /r. Darcy to a ball hosted by /r. "ingley+s older, unmarried sister, in a
way to bid her brother farewell as he leaves (own to settle an estate.
(hankfully a man of little fortune compared to my two friends, I was easily overlooked in the
crowd, but had a smashing time nonetheless. I danced with some ravishing young ladies who
happened to want nothing to do with me once they found out I was merely a country s*uib, oh
well, c+est la vie. (hough /iss "ingley is not a favorite of mine, she is an e)cellent hostess and
it seemed that the ball lasted well into the early hours of the morning, having drank with the
gentlemen after dinner, I cannot be entirely sure..
-5h heaven's, he could not have dran* that much did he, he cannot possibly have been in his
cups6. 4ane as*ed herself aloud, ta*ing the letter from 0ary's hand only to flush as she read
the contents.
-(ell my dear sister 9ane that no, I had not drank that much, but /r. -urst, /r. "ingley+s
brother-in-law did, and I was left with the task of keeping the gentleman company as he
sobered up. -onestly 9ane, do you think so little of me..
Chortling with mirth along with her other sisters, Aitty declared, -5h goodness, he is as much of
a tease as i22y:.
-&ye, I taught him well,. Eli2abeth replied win*ing at her sister, eliciting laughs from assembled.
Clearing her throat, 4ane too* the letter from where 0ary left off# -4hile /r. -urst sobered up
alone in the study of /r. "ingley+s townhouse, I returned to the ball to find my friend, /r. Darcy
surrounded by a horde of women..
-0y word, is it possible that our brother is close friends with a cad6.
-(ell my dear sister /ary that no, he is not a cad..
It was 0ary's turn to flush this time to which Eli2abeth patted her arm. -Come now 0ary, you are
far smarter than that. 5f all the letters we have received with 0r. 3arcy named, he always
seems to be running around the ball rooms trying to escape the mamas of ondon society,
hardly a thing for a cad to do.. &nd she had it on a reliable source that agreed with such
information, if ,eorgie was to be trusted.
-(hese women were in fact society mothers trying to convince my friend to secure a set with
their respective daughters. (he awkward sight of /r. Darcy trying and failing to get out of their
clutches amused me to no end. I think I may have been laughing aloud though because he
turned and glared rather fearsomely at me.
(o make amends, I proceeded into the crowd of hellion mothers and dragged him out to have a
few pints of gin and talk about politics.
-owever, my victory was short lived 7I had not even the opportunity to lord it over anyone yet8
when "ingley himself had to rain upon my success with a well-meaning demand to take a set
with a young lady.
,f course Darcy being the good friend that he was, agreed 7though reluctantly8 and assented to
take a set with the young miss. (hey made *uite the fine couple or so the matrons of the room
declared. /iss "ingley was not pleased with the sentiment and =accidently+ fell over the couple
as they danced. -ad I mentioned before that I believe that /iss "ingley has set her cap upon
Darcy. -eaven deliver him..
&t that point, 4ane was upset. -5h surely it was just an accident on 0iss Bingley's part, and truly
nothing to do with her partiality to 0r. 3arcy,. she cried in defense.
"a*ing the tas* of finishing the communication, Eli2abeth answered in her brother's stead, -0s I
know that 9ane will be distressed, I will apologise, but only for her sake..
9olling her eyes good naturedly at her younger brother's teasing, 4ane bumped her shoulder
jo*ingly with Eli2abeth's as she finished the note#
>4hen Darcy managed to recover from the embarrassment of falling over during a set, and
taking the young woman with him, he retired to my side by the window and kept his silence until
the flush upon his cheeks receded.
I asked how his set went despite the vengeance of gravity and he had actually smiled and said,
>I am glad that /iss "ingley decided to forcibly cut in.? I found that the young woman, a /iss
0shgrove, was a rather dull partner going on and on about lace and the finesse of the many
dresses that were adorned on the attending women of the (on.
-owever, that was not to say that Darcy wanted /iss "ingley to cut in once more and
embarrass not only him but his partner too, and he decided to make himself scarce for the rest
of the evening. I am sure that he most likely retired to the study to keep /r. -urst+s company,
but whether he did or not, I cannot say.
0s I write this, I prepare to leave officially for my break from $ambridge5 I will be e)changing
&ondon for wherever "ingley has in mind this time around. I promised my friend that I would
7along with Darcy8 assist him in finding an estate to lease so as to practice being an estate
owner. I mentioned you, my dear sister Eli'abeth, to "ingley and told him that if he ever needed
help, you would be glad to assist as you have already taken the reigns of our father+s estate
under your care.
4orry not, I had not really told him that, but I did say that I knew a various number of people to
assist us. !ou, father and Uncle Edward were to name a few 7actually all8, and he was delighted
with the prospect of learning how to manage an estate from anyone who can.
I write to you hoping that my father, mother and sisters are safe and healthy as I had left them in
the beginning of the summer when I last visited, and hope that I will get the chance to see you
again soon once this business of "ingley+s is complete, and hopefully that will be before
$ambridge is due again.
-oping for your good health and the maintenance of your good sense,
!our loving brother and son,
"enny.
-5h but there is nothing to e!cuse the lateness of the correspondence,. 0ary pointed out once
the letter was folded and placed neatly on the writing des* where Aitty had chosen to sit.
-"he date is two wee*s before, most li*ely it was misdirected due to his travelling,. 4ane
answered getting ydia to sigh wistfully.
-5h to travel, would that not be e!citing6 I wonder if his friends have been to the Continent6 I
have always wondered about it, what is it they call it again6. oo*ing thoughtful, the name
suddenly came to her and her bright grey eyes spar*led in delight as Aitty sighed, -"he (ew
;orld:.
0ary shoo* her head. -Come now Catherine, there is no use in being wistful. "here is still much
to discover here that you do not *now about..
-5h, but surely the Continent is more e!citing: 9ed coats or not, I would go in a heartbeat:.
ydia chimed in agreement.
-But what of the balls my dear sisters, and the severe lac* of lace, oh but surely you could
never,. Eli2abeth teased getting Aitty to claim, -I have read about cowboys, and I thin* their hats
are much prettier than ours:.
-So hang the red coats, hang the lace6 5h honestly, does our sisters' wanderlust drive so
deep6.
-But of course, there has to be more than ballrooms and embroidery..
4ane shoo* her head. -(ow hush you two, finish with your tas*s and you may declare what you
wish. =apa has only allowed you, ydia, to the 0eryton &ssembly if such is complete and mama
will be most unhappy if it is not..
-But I do not li*e it7 cannot you or Aitty do it6 Aitty is much better at ma*ing and mending things
than I, and you are far more patient than I would wish to be:.
-?nfortunately our sister spea*s truth,. Aitty said with a dramatic sigh, -'tis unfortunate that papa
wishes me to write an essay on 1ordyce, much a tas* preferred to 0ary than I or I would
willingly consent to e!change such chores..
-I could write an essay for you if you would just e!plain the topic to me,. ydia tried to bargain
only to have 0ary ts* in disagreement.
-8ou are much too young to understand the wor*s of such a refined mind ydia, pray, *eep to
your simple tas*s and be done with it. 3o not ta! yourself any further.. "he younger Bennet's
pout turned into a scowl as 0ary e!cused herself from the room. -It is already past noon and I
have not practiced yet, I fear my instrument is calling..
-"hen answer it, for I do not wish to hear you,. ydia said with a sniff.
0ary choose to ignore her *issed 4ane, Aitty and Eli2abeth before she departed. Aitty remained
as she was at the writing table, her brow furrowed in concentration as she tried to thin* of the
right words to address the topic her father had given her.
&s per the younger sisters' tas*s, 4ane and Eli2abeth stayed in the library of their ancestral
home ensuring that the youngest were not left idle. 4ane occupied herself with her own
embroidery, her effortless wor*manship causing ydia to become more frustrated with the craft
while Eli2abeth sat beside Aitty on the large writing table, attending to a few of the ledgers her
father had left for her to sort through.
3ue to the changing in the season, the ledgers needed to be *ept in constant watch in order to
*eep a tight rein on the family economy, and with their father gone to attend business in 0eryton
and their mother occupied with visiting tenants, all that was left to do was wor*.
"he sisters' occupancy was only disrupted by the sound of horse hoofs and a carriage coming
to a halt outside some forty)five minutes later.
ydia jumped at the chance of reprieve and rushed to the window to see the cause of the noise,
pressing her face against the glass she gasped at the sight of the magnificent carriage.
-5h no, >tis not 0r. Stewart again is it6. Aitty as*ed, putting her papers aside to stand.
-(ot a chance..
Eli2abeth came up beside her sister by the window, pulling the curtain slightly to widen the gap
they were able to see. Shoc*ed was she when she saw the familiar crest that matched that of
the seal of her letters from ambton.
-;hat on earth6.
.
"wo wee*s prior+
.
&ambton, Derbyshire
Dear &i''y,
7/er writing is flowing and neat, but large showing her e!citement% It is a strange day indeed
&i''y, I find that even though my brother is to leave soon to attend to /r. "ingley, I am not
upset.
I am saddened of course, do not misunderstand, but I am not pained at his departure. -e has
been home for many months, only ever going to &ondon on rare occasions of business and I
am sure he is happy to be out and about again.
I do not mean to say that he has been longing to leave, for surely he would have, even despite
your few frank letters to him on the occasion we 7my brother and I that is8 have misunderstood
each other. I do not wish for you to scare him off, he is my brother after all and you are my best
friend, it would not do if you disliked one another for it would grieve me so.
I am happy for my brother because he has been home for so long, I fear he has gotten bored of
my company, though that is not the case so please withhold writing him a stern letter regarding
his in-appreciation.
0h yes, I apologise, I seem to be rambling again, at least I have caught it early now. /y
governess /iss &ucas is very helpful in keeping my mind in one place. %he is a very practical
lady but also very kind, she is not so very old and she has told me that she has not had the
pleasure of marriage. I believe she is much like you, though she prefers me to keep my
impertinence to the family for she fears it might startle possible suitors and cause my brother to
worry about her influence.
Do not fear5 he does not need to know that is your doing.
,h my, I hope you caught me teasing there &i''y for I do not want to land you in any trouble
with my brother.
%peaking of, my brother is leaving for various counties, I believe he is assisting /r. "ingley
settle on an estate along with the help of your brother. I do not know when I am to write to him
for he is unsure himself how long they shall stay before /r. "ingley decides on one. I am
hopeful that my brother writes to me soon, I dearly wish to hear of the new places he has been
to.
6ray &i''y, have you or your brother traveled anywhere.
E)cited, sad but all a flutter for unsure reasons,
!our confusing correspondent,
#eorgie
.
Chapter seven
.
=eering through the glass at his side of the carriage, a window on the second floor caught his
attention. 1our women stared down at him from their perch, confusion evident in their
e!pressions and curiosity shaping their mouths as they spo*e soundlessly to each other.
"hey probably had no idea that he was loo*ing at them7 the distance and differing latitudes were
too great and even if that were not ta*en into account, the reflection of the sun might otherwise
shield him from them.
But even if they could not see him, they could see his carriage.
;hy had he not agreed to the scheme of using Bingley's coach instead of his own6
-3arcy is something the matter6.
-&ye, you loo* a little green+.
/e cleared his throat. -"is nothing, I assure you.. /e fumbled with his gloves.
In front of him, the other two gentlemen e!changed a loo*. -3arcy if you would prefer, you need
not meet my family if you do not wish to. 0y father will suffice once I have recovered him from
his study,. Bennet began.
-;e would not force you to sociali2e 3arce..
/ow utterly unmanly must he appear6 -I am not a child7 I do not need to be coddled..
-"hen why do you loo* so an!ious6.
-I am not..
-&re you sure old man6.
-&bsolutely, now if you two are finished dawdling I believe we must return Bennet to his family,.
he claimed as a footman opened the door to the coach and he alighted from it first, not allowing
his two friends to respond.
&s he stood in the swaying vegetation of the front garden' 3arcy's face mas*ed into ice as he
observed his surroundings7 ongbourn 0anor, was a quaint, well)maintained house, one of the
largest he had seen in this county. <ines scaled the walls as flowers still bloomed in the slowly
changing autumn landscape. "he paved path to the house was neat and free of any lur*ing
weeds, but gently blan*eted by a few fallen, fire painted leaves.
-;ell gentlemen, welcome to ongbourn,. Bennet said with a dramatic wave of the hand. -It is
nothing to =emberley, but home nevertheless.. Searching through the second floor windows
with his eyes, a grin bro*e out as he laughingly added, -"hough it is nothing without my sisters..
3arcy could have sworn that though they were still a good distance from the house, he could
hear various squeals of, -Benny's home:. and the sounds of footfalls echoing as Bennet's sisters
hurried down the stairs to meet them.
3iscretely he released a calming breath through his nose and steeled himself for the onslaught
of human contact. =erhaps ,eorgiana was right7 hiding away at =emberley did have its
disadvantages.
.
-;ho do you thin* those gentlemen were6. Aitty as*ed as the sisters quic*ly removed their
occupations to their proper places, smoothed out their s*irts and began a troupe out the study,
down the hallway and towards the stairs.
-Could it be that 0r. Bingley and 0r. 3arcy he writes so much of6. ydia wondered aloud.
-;e cannot *now until we are introduced, >tis a pity that our brother did not spea* to us before
their arrival else we would be better prepared,. 4ane answered with a thoughtful frown. She was
not inclined to surprises, much li*e their mother, the eldest 0iss Bennet preferred things to be
orderly and planned well enough that little could go wrong that she had not foreseen.
-It does not ma*e much of a difference you must admit7 how could we prepare for such a
meeting in any case6. Eli2abeth as*ed. -;e *now little of either gentleman from our brother's
letters for you *now how much Benny loves to tease 0ama with the lac* of proper information..
-8es, but did not Ben mention that 0r. Bingley is most jovial and agreeable6.
-;as he not the gentleman that had insisted an amiable air among his party when they attended
to his townhouse at least a fortnight ago6.
-&h yes, I believe he is,. 4ane recalled. -/opefully he does not thin* us too ill)prepared for
guests..
-;e have read the same letters have we not6. Aitty as*ed with a chuc*le, -I do not believe @at
least from our brother's letters @ that 0r. Bingley is the type to be displeased with anything..
-But what of the other gentleman, we only *now that he is not a cad and has the habit of
attempting escape from society mothers..
-0ama,. Eli2abeth gasped in remembrance. -;here is she6.
-;hat does it matter where she is6. the youngest Bennet as*ed in confusion, bumping into 4ane
when she suddenly came to a stop.
-I apologise ydia, but I thin* I must send you..
-Send me6 ;herever to6.
-8ou must distract 0ama, ydia,. 4ane instructed, already changing direction to the servant's
stairs and gesturing her down the steps.
-But why must I6.
-0r. 3arcy does not li*e match)ma*ing mamas, ours is not much different,. Eli2abeth said with a
grimace. Considering his fear of entrapment we would impede upon his comfort with mama's
presence, and as I have already promised ,eorgie that I would not agitate him with my chee*, I
believe I should maintain that oath and restrain mama from his company as often as I am able.
-5h, but what must I tell mama6.
-/ave you not always savored the opportunity to impress upon her the idea that you shall marry
whoever you wish6.
-&h yes indeed Aitty, now remind me again dearest, am I to be in love with "om, the
woodcutter's stuttering son or 1redric*, the boot ma*er's vulgar younger brother6.
.
Ben had not realised how homesic* he was until the door was opened and he was greeted by
/ill, the house*eeper of ongbourn and surrogate mother to himself and his sisters.
/e remembered how often he used to hide away from her when he was young, fearing that she
would ta*e him from his amusements and deliver him to his mother.
&s the heir to the family estate and also the sole savior from the hedgerows, his mother fretted
over him constantly and would deny him from enjoying the amusements most boys were entitled
to. "han*fully /ill proved to be on his side in the matter and assisted him, where possible, to
escape the clutches of his over2ealous, over nervous mama.
/ill had also enjoyed spoiling him and his sisters as often as she was able, having no children of
her own and being inclined towards grandmotherly behavior. She provided just as many treats
as she had submitted reprimands and punishment to the >wild' children of ongbourn. ;ithout
her, the Bennet children's discipline would be naught for their father only agreed to educate
them further on the condition of their good behavior, something uncommon for rowdy children of
varying ages.
5f course with so much owed to the old house*eeper, Ben felt that introductions would be
necessary, -Bingley, 3arcy this is 0rs. /ill, ongbourn's 0rs. 9eynolds ).
-Benjamin Bennet, what on earth are you doing here6.
Ben flinched. "hat was not the tone of voice that snuc* him sweets after supper.
-"here was no letter to say we should prepare for your arrival, goodness once your mother finds
out everything will be in a ti22y:. She was already wringing her hands together and upon
catching sight of the magnificent carriage through the door, her an!iety grew. -/eavens, do you
realise how much of an uproar you shall cause, not only here, but in the neighborhood too6.
"hough Bingley was obviously surprised by the outburst of the old house*eeper, 3arcy was not.
In fact, it was a great comfort to the formidable gentleman who had been raised by a similar
woman. Seeing someone that was not him get scolded by a 0rs. 9eynolds actually brought him
a sense of amusement.
?nfortunately for him it was not to last, however, it was a great relief to Ben when his sisters
descended the staircase and ended /ill's fretting.
.
"o say 3arcy was severely out of his element at this present moment would not be a gross
untruth.
;hilst the greetings between siblings had ta*en place, Bingley was smiling li*e his usual
friendly self, eliciting even friendlier faces amongst the arrival of young women assembled.
;ith all the openly given affections coupled with the welcoming smiles of Bennet's sisters7 not a
man prone to witnessing open fondness between relations, it was no surprise that 3arcy felt
somewhat uncomfortable.
"han*fully decorum stated that the company moved out of the foyer of ongbourn 0anor and
into the parlor where the flow of music was being played with e!uberant abandon. It was almost
li*e he was bac* at =emberley, entering a different version of the music room to find a dar*
haired sister instead of a blonde one.
-0ary, loo* who is here:. & girl, the youngest of the three that had descended, declared
e!citedly as she entered the parlor arm and arm with her brother.
"he music lagged as the girl loo*ed over her shoulder and just as suddenly as she noticed the
un*nown guests standing in the parlor of her home, she abruptly rose and fumbled a curtsey
from behind the piano bench. She was a mousy girl this >0ary', there was a stiffness to her
manner that lac*ed the gentle grace her sisters had e!hibited earlier, though to be fair, she was
caught entirely by surprise.
Chee*s stained an embarrassingly bright red that pee*ed from even the edges of her ears, eyes
downcast and her hands clenched tightly in front of her to prevent her slight sha*ing from being
noticed.
3arcy *new such a stance quite well.
It was something ,eorgiana had done almost constantly before 0iss Bennet's letters had ta*en
into effect. Instantly he pitied the poor thing.
-&h now that we are in the proper room for introductions, may I present my lovely sisters to you
both6.
/e only gave a solemn nod of agreement while Bingley appeared more enthusiastic simply
because he loved sociali2ing, and also because Bennet had failed to mention how uncommonly
pretty his sisters were.
"he youngest was a dar* haired brunette, far shorter than the rest of her sisters and much less
inclined to propriety as she happily hung off her brother's arm and giggled. -"his is 0iss
Catherine Bennet.. She bobbed a curtsey and giggled a little again.
"he sister behind the piano was also a brunette, but much lighter though her height was almost
the same to 0iss Catherine which led 3arcy to assume that they were probably close in age.
-"his is 0iss 0ary Bennet.. She also proved to hold etiquette to a higher standard as a muscle
under her eye twitched slightly at her younger sister's antics before she dropped a somewhat
clumsy curtsey.
"hough Bingley did not seem to notice for his attention was on another 0iss Bennet, a classical
beauty, something 3arcy had not e!pected to find in a seemingly bac*water county. She
seemed to be perfectly well)mannered and serene. /er air was somewhat aloof, but her smile
was nothing if not sincere. -"his is 0iss Bennet.. &h, the eldest then. But where does that leave
the last sister6
3arcy's ga2e fell to the remaining sister without a name.
She was as dar* haired as 0iss Catherine, but unli*e her, her eyes were a dar* brown much the
same as 0iss 0ary, though hers spar*led amber and green as the light from the window she
stood by played along her lashes. She seemed more open with her emotions than the eldest
0iss Bennet for an arch smile tugged at her lips and set her ga2e dancing in amusement. -&nd
this is 0iss Eli2abeth Bennet..
/e almost cho*ed on his own spit. (ot a gentlemanly thing to admit, but unfortunately 3arcy
was a terrible liar.
/e was now not only overwhelmed with the sheer number of people he was confined with for
the remainder of this visit, but now he was also face to face with the mysterious young woman
he had to than* for repairing the damage done to his beloved sister. /e had, of course,
suspected that he would meet her eventually, but he assumed that since one sister was
missing, he might be fortunate enough to hold off such an introduction.
-"hese two gentlemen are 0r. 3arcy and 0r. Bingley..
-'"is a pleasure to meet such charming young ladies,. Bingley said with a bow which 3arcy
e!ecuted as well while he murmured sentiments of that nature that hardly had a chance to
process in his brain.
-i*ewise sir,. 0iss Bennet answered on behalf of the rest of her sisters. -I believe you are
traveling to settle an estate 0r. Bingley, pray are you only to pass by before you continue on
such a journey6.
-8es, I believe we would li*e to *eep our brother until 0ichaelmas if possible,. 0iss Eli2abeth
said eliciting a nod of agreement from 0iss Catherine and a sage comment by 0iss 0ary,
-"raditions cannot be ignored thusly after all and our brother's presence will be no more
demanded than it would be required..
Bingley chuc*led. -;ell actually 0iss Bennet, I am to lease an estate called (etherfield, should
the property be to my li*ing, and then you need not worry about Bennet being absent for such
an important occasion..
-5h you are to lease (etherfield6 /ow wonderful, the grounds are simply beautiful..
-/ave you visited there often 0iss Eli2abeth6.
She gave a sheepish sort of smile. -I am afraid so 0r. Bingley. If you are to lease (etherfield I
suggest you repair the fence bordering our lands..
.
"wo days prior+
.
&ambton, Derbyshire
Dear &i''y,
$/er writing is neat and written in her usual careful way, a sign that she is content% I am glad you
liked the sketch I have done of the view in my window5 rough sketches seem to be the only
thing I am able to complete before I grow bored of the occupation.
/y brother thinks it is very amusing because I can spend hours on the pianoforte and yet
cannot sit for more than a *uarter of an hour to finish a sketch. It is simply not e)citing enough I
could argue, but unfortunately my brother is *uite proficient in things that re*uire the utmost
patience. /iss &ucas is attempting to assist my lack of such an important virtue by amusing me
with stories of her home as I draw whatever ob3ect she instructs me to.
It is *uite odd &i''y5 did you not say you were from -ertfordshire. /y companion has spoken of
a &i''y and a manor called &ongbourn, am I to understand it is one and the same. $/er writing
suddenly goes quite large in her e!citement% ,h if it were true, I could draw a portrait of you
based on her description, I am sure I can gather enough patience to complete such a task,
hopefully then my brother would not tease me:
$/er writing goes small again% /y brother has written to me sparsely since his departure from
home and it worries me. /iss &ucas has told me that it is most likely due to the traveling they
are partaking in, I am sure you would agree with the logic, but I have no idea if he is well.
/y brother is a very constant correspondent, you see, much like you5 he never fails to pen
something down to let me know that all is well and that he will be returning this date or this date.
I suppose our e)tended period together since the event in Ramsgate $9amsgate is written with
a slight scribble showing her desire to forget about the incident% has made me *uite dependent
on his presence and now that he is no longer here and not writing to me $/er writing trails% < I
think I shall laugh at myself now for I feel rather silly admitting such a foolish thing.
(he letter my brother did manage to send, told me that he was to depart to a county a day+s
travel away from &ondon. Did you not say that -ertfordshire was at such a distance.
If you should be so lucky to speak to him, and he so lucky to meet you, I caution you that droll
topics of the weather and the appearance of the roads will only discomfort him and no doubt,
frustrate you. ,h my, I hope my brother does not become too startled by you and if he does,
pray apologise for me for not warning him sooner. $/er writing goes large again% -ow I envy
you both for meeting the other:
/iss &ucas has shaken her head at me with a look of bemusement5 I think my odd moods are
rather disconcerting for which I apologise, as well as the length of this missive. I know that you
said there is no such thing as a long letter, but unfortunately /iss &ucas has unintentionally
instructed me on how postage is calculated and now I fear that I shall leave you *uite a bill.
/y apologies for the long winding letter and my peculiar temper,
#eorgie
.
=resently+
.
Some fifteen minutes later, 3arcy found himself in an inevitable position.
&s per his habit, he wandered towards a window to view the sprawling, tumbling lawn of
ongbourn. "o his surprise, none of Bennet's sisters had attempted to attach themselves to him
in any way. (o sultry smiles, flirtatious eye fluttering or saturated, insincere compliments were
heard or directed towards him. /e was relieved to thin* he would not be harassed as he had
been since escaping =emberley.
1or the past two wee*s, every county the three gentlemen had entered garnered the same
attention#
Everyone would be in awe of the marvelous carriage and pay the owner quite a bit of
concentration7 but then the meeting with various occupants of the area would deem Bingley an
e!ceptionally friendly gentleman, Bennet a very intelligent young man and 3arcy a stale piece of
bread in a bowl of perfectly ripe permanganates and apples. ?nfortunately the townspeople
would then discover how much richer 3arcy was compared to his companions and suddenly no
one particularly cared for the two more amiable gentlemen.
3arcy was quite glad that the cycle would not continue in Bennet's home county.
"hrough the reflection of the glass, 0iss Eli2abeth moved to stand some distance beside him.
/e huffed out a slight breath through the nose. =erhaps he celebrated a bit too soon.
-0r. 3arcy..
/e turned slightly and bowed his head in ac*nowledgement. -0iss Eli2abeth..
Standing almost side by side to stare out separate windows, there was silence between them.
&s per his usual behavior, 3arcy tried to ignore the presence of the young woman beside him,
but he caught their reflections in the glass and could not ignore how tiny she was compared to
him. Indeed, she was barely at his shoulder and loo*ed incredibly fragile in contrast to his large,
imposing form at her side.
She did not feel the need to ma*e small tal* and he was not proficient in such things to attempt
it, however, the pause eventually stretched too long for her and she offered, -0iss 3arcy has
told me how much it has rained in the (orth, I hope the weather did not prove too much of a
hassle with your travels..
-(ot at all, we have been fortunate enough to choose routes that avoided such problems..
-5h then you have traveled often6.
-&s much as may be needed..
-It is good that someone is e!perienced with the activity, I cannot rely on my brother's
description for he enjoys drawing us caricatures and I do not wish to disappoint 0iss 3arcy
should his claims prove too e!travagant to be plausible,. she mused with a smile.
-;here has Bennet e!plored that his word cannot be trusted6 I do not believe him to be too
creative in such a tas* as drawing.. 3arcy had seen such attempts on the occasion of Bennet's
boredom where the young man would end up scribbling badly drawn objects on pieces of spare
parchment.
0iss Eli2abeth chuc*led. -"han*fully he has been to nowhere but ondon and Cambridgeshire
so he cannot properly fool us7 sadly I have traveled even less than he so I fear I shall disappoint
0iss 3arcy with my ne!t communication.. "urning her head slightly to smile at him, she as*ed,
-;here have your roads ta*en you 0r. 3arcy6.
-<arious counties and abroad madam,. he answered7 a bit unsettled by her smile.
She nodded in understanding, eerily unaffected by his short reply.
-/ave you stopped at 0eryton sir6.
-I have not had the pleasure, your brother was adamant on arriving here as soon as we were
able..
-&h I see, well since he has denied you the opportunity I will have to instruct him to show you
the post office when ne!t you are to venture out.. "heir eyes met and she flashed him the same
smile. -0iss 3arcy eagerly awaits your ne!t epistle. I daresay she will be quite proud of me for
not shoc*ing you so.. /er ga2e returned to the window, her smile still in place as her fine eyes
reflected the glow of the sun. -"hough I must admit I am rather befuddled at her delivering such
a warning upon me, I do not thin* I am shoc*ing..
3arcy would disagree.
.
&s twilight settled in the county, Ben was finally given a reprieve from his mother's interrogation
and ventured into 4ane and Eli2abeth's room where his sisters were *nown to congregate after
supper.
4ane was leaning against the headboard, spea*ing quietly to Eli2abeth who had her head on
her eldest sister's shoulder. Aitty was seated in the middle of the shared bed of his two older
sisters, braiding 0ary's hair who was studying the new piece of music he managed to procure
for her, seated beside Aitty near the edge of the bed was ydia who was tal*ing animatedly
about the events she witnessed with the tenants while distracting their mother.
-&h I see now who I am to than* for *eeping 0ama..
ydia leaned over to see past 0ary and said with a grin, -&ye, did you tell her who arrived yet6.
-(o,. he answered as he entered, closing the door behind him before ta*ing a seat behind the
vanity just across from the bed.
-"hen what was your interview with our mother about6.
-I am returned from Cambridge and she is quite determined to *now if I have found a new 0rs.
Bennet..
"he two younger sisters giggled, but it was Eli2abeth who as*ed in amusement, -/as finding us
husbands escaped her mind6.
-1or the moment, I thin* my sudden homecoming has ta*en her by surprise. 9est assured,
mama will return to herself once the gossip begins about (etherfield..
-0r. Bingley is to let (etherfield6. ydia as*ed e!citedly before she e!claimed, -5h surely he
shall host a ball, brother, you must insist upon it for (etherfield has the greatest ballroom in the
entire county:.
-Indeed, a fact that will appease 0iss Bingley greatly when she hears her brother has settled
the estate..
-Settled already6. 0ary questioned, -0r. 0orris is usually quite a difficult man to negotiate with..
-8es, i22y tried to get him to repair the fences because =uc* li*es to wander out of the estate,
and 0r. 0orris would not yield to either i22y or 4ane,. ydia stated with a displeased scowl,
-and yet he still finds it reasonable to complain when =uc* lands up on the (etherfield property..
-"hat is why I retrieved papa after we left the house so that he may be present during the
discussion of the lease contract,. Ben e!plained, -8ou *now how easily 0r. 0orris yields when
father is involved..
-=erhaps it is because 0r. 0orris still fears papa after he tried to compromise one of the maids
last year,. 0ary mused eliciting a nod of agreement from Aitty.
-8es, papa was utterly frightful. I do not thin* I have seen him so angry before, and only for a
maid..
-I thin* father acted quite appropriately,. Ben cried, -why, that could have easily been any one of
you. "he only difference being that the maid had no one to defend her name while you do. (o
doubt 0r. 0orris had no intention of marrying her either and he would probably not lose sleep
over sullying her name..
4ane ga2ed at him with a thoughtful eye before catching the matching e!pression of resolve in
her sister Eli2abeth as she came to stand by their brother's side, a hand placed comfortingly
upon his shoulder.
-;hy that is a rather dreadful thing to say,. 0ary muttered, -though true it might be, such did not
occur. ;hat has happened Benny that you have turned so serious6.
-It is of no consequence I assure you, I am just tired from the journey..
-"hen we insist that you regain your strength for if the society of 0eryton has seen our new
neighbors than I fear you shall need all the energy you can spare,. Eli2abeth claimed, patting
his shoulder.
-(o, do not send him away yet,. Aitty pleaded, -he must be present when we gossip about his
two friends for his understanding of them will ma*e the activity even more fun:.
-(ow I do not *now how I feel about that,. Ben said with a chuc*le. -But pray, what did you thin*
of them6.
4ane spo*e first, -0r. Bingley I thin* is as amiable as you have described..
-8es and e!tremely attentive to dear 4ane,. Eli2abeth added, sending her sister a win*. "he
eldest Bennet's flush grew hotter as 0ary adjoined, -8es, he appeared not to pay the rest of us
any attention at all. Even ydia's entrance was greatly ignored when she came to warn us that
0ama was to come..
-I thin* he is much more fitting for 4ane than 0r. Stewart,. Aitty claimed though ydia's eyes
rolled.
-0ny man is better than 0r. Stewart. But I do agree, though he did not pay me much attention
after our introduction, at least he was polite enough to try and start a conversation with me
before being distracted by 4ane's beauty unli*e that frightfully tall gentleman..
-&h, you must e!cuse 3arcy7 he is not the type to enjoy social gatherings of any *ind..
-Still, he appears just as severe as 0ary does. /e has the e!pression of someone in mourning
or one that has lost his shillings to a drain,. ydia remar*ed with a huff. -I do not li*e him..
-8ou judge far too quic*ly dearest,. 4ane soothed, -not everyone is as buoyant as you are in
company..
-&t least he does not sprout nonsense li*e 0r. Stewart,. Eli2abeth added, -he may have been
silent for most of the visit, but at least what he had to say was worth hearing..
-;e would not *now i22y, only you spo*e to him,. 0ary pointed out eliciting a curious loo* from
4ane, a sly smile from ydia, quir*ing brows from Aitty and a combination of a raised brow and a
smir* from Ben.
-5h, and what was the contents of this discourse, as your brother I must be dutifully informed to
ensure that possible suitors are rightfully instructed on their behavior towards my sisters..
"he sisters laughed at the hint of their mother's tone in Ben's voice while Eli2abeth's eyes
twin*led at the inside jo*e of 0r. 3arcy's fear of entrapment.
-Be assured dear brother7 we only spo*e of the drollest of topics..
.
Chapter eight
.
-0y dear 0r. Bennet,. said his lady, -have you heard (etherfield =ar* is to be let at last6.
/is brows quir*ed in amusement from over the boo* he was pursuing, which dealt with
important matters of estate business and the importance of maintaining one's economy
$something he recommended his wife read should she ever tire of her novels%, the playful
flic*ering of light dancing in his grey eyes matching that of his two favorite children.
-0rs. ong has just been here, and she told me all about it,. 0rs. Bennet continued,
unperturbed by the silence that filled her husband's study, her e!citement brimming as she
bounced upon the chair across her husband's des*. -3o you not want to *now who has ta*en
it6.
-8ou want to tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it,. he answered, his amusement veiled
only by the boo* he raised higher to shield his face.
Ben fa*ed a cough while Eli2abeth pressed a hand against her lips and tried very hard to focus
on the numbers of the ledger they were reviewing in an attempt to ignore their mother's
enthusiasm over their new neighbor.
-;hy my dear, you must *now, 0rs. ong says that (etherfield is ta*en by a young man of large
fortune from the north of England..
-Is that so my dear6.
-;hy yes indeed 0r. Bennet,. she said eagerly.
-;hat is this young man's name6.
-/is name is Bingley I believe, a fine name: 0rs. ong has said that the gentleman is very
amiable and very handsome, a fine thing for our girls:.
&h and here was the moment 0r. Bennet had been waiting for# -/ow so, how can it affect
them6.
"o say the Bennet matriarch was forcibly ripped off her proverbial Cloud (ine would be fitting for
the lady was immediately overwhelmed with angry energy, -(ow my dear 0r. Bennet, how can
you tease me so6 3o you not reali2e how wonderful this is6 Such a man of his caliber would
surely ma*e a fitting husband for our girls:.
-0y dear you hardly *now the man, what caliber do you spea* of other than his fortune6 &nd
what is this >our girls'6 &re you hoping that this Bingley fellow is a polygamist6 Surely you *now I
shall never consent to my daughters becoming incubi..
She huffed. -Certainly not, we have raised ladies not+.
Suddenly feeling the raised brows of her two children behind her, she continued in haste, -0r.
Bingley's fortune is not to be laughed at my dear husband, do you *now that his carriage was
seen in 0eryton, the finest carriage anyone had ever beheld: Indeed, it made 0r. Stewart's
appear rather cheaply in comparison:.
-;hy, I do not wish to hear this nonsense about my favorite young man,. 0r. Bennet cried
moc*ingly in his defense to the annoyance of Eli2abeth as her brother lost his composure
entirely and almost fell out of his chair.
-It grieves me to tell you such things my dear, but it is the truth and I am nothing if not honest,.
his wife declared. -(ow even though you seem quite ta*en with the idea of our 4ane's imminent
attachment to 0r. Stewart $both Bennet children snorted albeit less discretely%, would it not be
more agreeable to *eep her for the richer man6 Certainly 4ane is not so pretty for a mere eight
thousand pounds6.
-0ay I remind you that our daughters' happiness does not rely on annuity but on mutual
affection6 ;e do not sell our children to the highest bidders..
-8es, but there is happiness in security is there not6.
-I cannot deny such logic, what shall you have me do then6.
oo*ing victorious, 0rs. Bennet commanded, -8ou shall see him..
-;ho shall I see6.
-0r. Bingley.. She gave him an e!asperated loo*. -8ou shall introduce yourself and welcome
him to the neighborhood. Consider your daughters sir, only thin* what an establishment it would
be..
-1or one of them,. 0r. Bennet emphasi2ed eliciting another huff from his lady.
-"hen you shall see him6.
=utting his long forgotten boo* aside, he answered, -I believe your ways have finally affected
mine my dear wife, I have already met this young man you wish to wed our daughters $though
he may only have one if he is luc*y%..
-;hat is this that you spea* of6 ;hen did you meet him6.
-;hy just yesterday,. he answered coolly, -your son decided to interrupt a perfectly good game
of bac*gammon between 0r. =hilips and I, and that is when I met 0r. Bingley..
-&nd what does Benjamin Bennet have to do with any of this6. their mother demanded.
1rom across the small table, Eli2abeth noted the slight twitch under her brother's eye at the use
of his full name, and with an arch smile she *new that they thought the same thing# Benny was
in serious trouble with their 0ama.
"he siblings shared thought was confirmed when 0r. Bennet declared in the same cool
nonchalance, -;hy, he and 0r. Bingley are long acquainted, I believe they met through your
brother ,ardiner..
&nd it appeared as though their father had also sentenced ?ncle Edward to e!perience the
wrath of one 0rs. 1anny Bennet as well.
.
Eli2abeth was not inclined to stay within doors once their mother began her schemes, hopefully
0rs. Bennet would be far too occupied with berating Ben from withholding such valuable
*nowledge to be able to do anything soon.
/aving been loc*ed indoors assisting both her brother and her father with a few matters of the
estate, she was desirous for the solitude of her rambles.
"he dead leaves crushed quietly underneath the boots she wore on her wal*s, /ill had insisted
upon it after one too many fits of her mother's nerves about torn sil* shoes7 the sound was an
odd accompaniment to the far away beating of a bird's wings.
She breathed in the mus*y scent of earth twined in the crisp air, her eyes lightening at the sight
of the s*y with all its oranges, reds and pin*s scattered with deliberation across a light blue
painted canvas. She beamed at all that met her eye for in this wood and at this moment, there
was nothing more beautiful than witnessing the grandeur of ,od's wor*.
;al*ing onto a path she had many a times traveled, she loo*ed up at the sun through the
canopy of branches overhead, the interplay of light and shadow enticing her to a whimsical
dance as the leaves rustled off their twigs and twirled around her. ;ho was she deny such a
set6
&nd so with abandon, vigor and the delight of enjoying her own silliness, she twirled and danced
in the gentle rain of falling leaves and mus*y air.
Such was the state that 3arcy had spotted her.
/e was not one to spy, such an activity was undignified and not something a gentleman would
do, but he had seen a flash of colour and movement on his morning ride and his horse was a
rather curious and stubborn animal.
"hat morning 3arcy had wo*en with a sense of urgency. eave the house before Bingley's
guests arrive.
&rrive they did. ?nfortunately they did so the night before while he embraced oblivion and slept
through the rac*et they caused.
0iss Bingley had greeted him in the brea*fast room that morning and refused to allow him leave
of any sorts without ma*ing some move to accompany him. /e could not even finish brea*fast
with her constant demand for attention.
/e would not be rude to his friend's sister who was also his hostess which left him with only one
choice# escape.
;ith a handful of bread rolls that he unceremoniously stuffed into the poc*ets of his coat, he
fled. /is valet would surely gift him with odd loo*s later, but 3arcy would prefer his manservant's
confusion over 0iss Bingley's attentiveness.
"hough Bingley had a very meager collection of boo*s, (etherfield's large shelves served their
purpose as he quic*ly lost her within the library before stowing away to the stables.
/is horse was determined to ignore him, however, 3arcy refused to be caught and urged the
beast out the stall, out of the stables and anywhere but (etherfield and so his horse had led him
here.
&chilles was the horse's name, stepped upon a bro*en twig that lay in its path, the sound
shattering the silence of nature and the giggles of the sprite before him.
In surprise, 0iss Eli2abeth turned and 3arcy fought the urge to curse.
/ow unfortunate for them both.
.
(etherfield =ar* was in a flurry of activity, the servants running up and down the hallways and in
and out of bedchambers as they prepared the house for use by its new master. In various rooms
of the estate, silverware was being polished, bedding changed and rooms aired of dust.
"he efficiency of the servants was lagged by e!haustion brought on from the previous night with
the arrival of their rather pic*y and fashionable new mistress, 0iss Caroline Bingley.
-(o, no, this will not do: "his room is completely out of date7 they all need to be rearranged:.
declared she, waving her hand about dramatically as she gestured, -(ew furniture7 new colours:
/ow drab this room loo*s, how ill indeed, do you not agree ouisa6.
ouisa /urst nee Bingley nodded earnestly and stuc* her nose higher in the air.
-,oodness where does our brother find his help, who on earth choose such plain furniture6 It is
a very good thing we accompanied him Caroline, heaven *nows Charles will be able to handle
running his own house without our good taste..
-Beggin' your pardon 0iss..
-;hat is it6.
-I apologise 0iss, but there is a gentleman to see you..
Caroline's mood seemed to brighten.
-(ow Caroline,. the elder began in warning, very much aware of her sister's desire to be
married as soon as may be, -I hardly thin* it matters if there is a gentleman of sorts here, indeed
I doubt this bac*water place can have any gentlemen worthy of your attention..
-ouisa, do not tal* to me as if I were a child. I *now full well the lac* of prospects in the country,
but the >gentlemen' here will at least provide some amusement for the time being, at least until
our brother regains his senses and returns to ondon with us. ;hy already 0r. 3arcy has been
acting out of sorts for he disappeared during our most engaging conversation in the library,. she
sniffed.
-I agree7 it must be that ghastly 0r. Bennet. /ow such a gentleman of low breeding ever got
onto the notice of someone of 0r. 3arcy's ran* is unheard of:.
-Erm+0iss6.
-/onestly girl, do you not learn manners6 ;hen two ladies of breeding are spea*ing, what you
have to say matters naught..
-0anners of some sort are a common sense, tact, however, is something you have to have the
decency to gain,. a difference voice claimed from the door behind them.
"hey turned to ac*nowledge his entrance though the servant girl hastily bobbed a curtsey and
departed.
-&h 0r. Bennet, how+nice it is to say you again,. ouisa greeted as she smiled falsely at the
country squid her brother befriended, and curtseying in greeting. /er action copied by her sister
though stiffly with neither having the decency to blush over their words possibly heard by the
man they had just spo*en of.
-I would not give you the benefit 0r. Bennet,. Caroline claimed, crossing her arms and glaring at
the so)called gentleman, -tact is not to be wasted on the inferior..
-8ou may assume what you wish, as long as I am not a target to you or any other fortune
hunters I am content. Besides, I much prefer your blatant hate 0iss Bingley7 it is surely more
becoming then that plume in your hair. ;here in heaven's name did you find such a thing, did it
belong to the pheasant Bingley shot yesterday6. Ben as*ed coolly, inwardly snic*ering at the
angry flush of colour on 0iss Bingley's chee*s, her fingers twitching in the junction where her
elbow folded.
-Buite a hypocrite you are 0r. Bennet, what has happened to having the decency to gain tact6.
ouisa sniffed in derision.
-5h, tact I have, in abundance I assure you,. he said with a shrug, -but whether I wish to ma*e
use of it is my business and not yours, is it not6.
0iss Bingley scoffed. -Is there something you wanted 0r. Bennet6.
-It is not necessarily what I want 0iss Bingley, it is simply civility. 0y family wishes to e!tend an
invitation to you and the /ursts to dine with us. 8our brother has already agreed, though he
cannot say whether the rest of his company wishes to parta*e in our merriment..
Anowing the reserved nature of her brother's other guest, Caroline responded, -I am sure my
brother would simply adore the opportunity to sociali2e with the society here, but I have much to
do to ensure (etherfield is tolerable for use, some tastes are more refined and need to be
catered for, you understand..
"he young man did not argue or attempt to persuade, he simply bowed and departed leaving
civility as it always was, barely there but at least in e!istence. Ben was not to be fooled by 0iss
Bingley's e!cuses, and he *new almost immediately what ideas the woman's mind was
churning.
Inwardly he shuddered.
=oor 3arcy.
.
It was most curious indeed when not one minute ago Eli2abeth was gaily twirling li*e a foolish
thing in the middle of the wood and then the ne!t she was bac*ed into a tree, arrested by two
pairs of eyes.
"he first, a pair of hauntingly blue eyes, the eyes of her brother's friend and her young
correspondent's brother7 and the second, a pair of endless depths of pure blac*.
/er breath was harsh and shallow, her chest heaving painfully as she tried to calm her horribly
thumping heart.
-I apologise for the intrusion 0iss Eli2abeth,. 0r. 3arcy said, his voice belying no response
towards her apparent lac* of composure either because he was completely unfa2ed by her
obvious fear or completely indifferent to it. /e was in fact, neither.
She was mortified and terrified all at once.
"hat great beast of a creature stared unmoving at her while its rider loo*ed on with just as much
unwavering resolve. Being caught in such a state of discomfiture did not suit her at all, though
she differed with her mother and 4ane in this, being caught off guard was not much a favorite of
hers either.
(o words were e!changed following his greeting before she grew once again in confidence, if
only to utter, -8ou wish to scare me sir, what do you mean by coming about me in such a way6.
"he gentleman ydia had claimed to disli*e upon a less than five minute meeting, was indeed,
frightfully tall, imposing and everything that was intimidation. /is habit of being offensive when
embarrassed could not be forgotten and so he stated coldly, -I do not understand your
meaning..
-I did not hear you arrive sir,. she e!plained, her courage rising as she focused more on the
rider than the creature he was mounted upon, -until you were quite too near for me to pretend I
was being appropriate..
-If you dance in the wood, it is no business of mine..
She had the decency to blush. -"hen upon my word, what reason would you have to be here6.
/er accusatory tone made him stiffen, his eyes narrowing. -I startled you 0iss Eli2abeth7 I would
not simply leave without ma*ing sure you were well or at least greet you as civility demands..
-I would be quite well if you left me sir, civility or not..
3arcy would have chosen to be angry with her and did so if only to end this pointless argument,
but when his horse had begun to stomp restlessly he noted the way 0iss Eli2abeth instantly
cringed and how automatic her movement was to be near the safety of the tree.
-Be calm &chilles..
"he horse raised its legs in irritation, but for once the stubborn stallion consented with a toss of
its head before releasing a slight huff in annoyance.
,lancing at the young woman he happened upon, 3arcy hoped she would be restored of her
composure. ?nfortunately he found her sitting at the foot of the tree, hiding her face in her
hands as the sounds of muffled sobs made its way into his hearing.
It hit him almost as painfully as it had the many nights he spend sitting outside of ,eorgiana's
door, unable to ma*e her nightmares stop.
3arcy made her cry.
"he haste with which he dismounted from &chilles and went to her was almost as fast as it too*
for him to reali2e that 0iss Eli2abeth was not crying heart wrenching tears, but that of frustrated,
angry tears.
-0iss Eli2abeth I must apologise, I did not *now you were afraid of horses,. he found himself
stumbling over words in an attempt at an apology7 he was never good at those.
-I am not afraid of horses,. she mumbled defiantly, -I am not ).
&chilles nic*ered bac* as if continuing the argument his rider had abandoned. 3arcy glared at
his mount before *neeling beside the young woman, unsure of what to do.
"his situation was a prime e!ample of circumstances he aimed to avoid at all costs, the only
time he had ever dealt with an upset female of any *ind was his sister and the only time that
was successful was when ,eorgiana was five and only wanted the coo*ie she was denied
before going to bed. 3arcy doubted coo*ies would fi! this, but sitting beside her li*e a quiet,
idiotic tree was not going to ma*e things better.
/e sighed and offered her his hand*erchief which she ac*nowledged with neither a sha*e nor a
nod of her head.
-0iss Eli2abeth, if you would indulge me..
She glanced at him slightly, her glistening, red tainted eyes meeting his for a brief second before
she sniffed and accepted the piece of cloth from his hand. Before she used it to wipe away the
tear stains upon her chee*s, she mumbled, -Breadcrumbs6.
5h. 8es. /is brea*fast.
1lushing in embarrassment, 3arcy dusted the hand*erchief clean, effectively ruining the neat
press of the material as he aw*wardly handed it bac* to her. -I apologise 0iss Eli2abeth..
& soft sniff answered him before she spo*e again, -8ou apologise an awful lot 0r. 3arcy7 I am
starting to see where ,eorgiana gets it from..
.
-0y dear 4ane is a reputed beauty in /ertfordshire,. 0rs. Bennet claimed as she prepared to
serve her two guests tea. -;hy, at just fifteen I was sure my 4ane was to be married, but sadly
the gentleman did not claim her,. she lamented with a disappointed sigh. -/owever, he did write
her some lovely lines, quite a gentleman he was..
-I am sure he was indeed madam, your daughter deserves the very best..
4ane's pin* chee*s too* a more rosy hue at the compliment and smile of the jovial friend of her
younger brother. 0r. Bingley's grin only brightened when the young woman smiled bac* shyly.
-8es, I am glad you agree 0r. Bingley, I believe my 4ane only deserves the best,. 0rs. Bennet
echoed, her lower lip twitching slightly at the severe e!pression on the other gentleman's face.
&s soon as she had procured the correct information from her son, 0rs. Bennet had determined
that no, 4ane would not go to 0r. Stewart or to their new neighbor 0r. Bingley, the reputed
beauty of /erefordshire would go to the gentleman that suited her best.
0r. 3arcy was certainly more handsome than his friend, his dar* loc*s, his defined and noble
features, his uncommonly blue eyes, his impressive height and his fortune of ten thousand a
year was certainly more enticing than 0r. Bingley's mere five thousand. ;hy, 0r. Bingley was
not even richer than 0r. Stewart, the easily smiling gentleman would do better with one of her
other girls, Aitty or ydia perhaps6
But 0r. 3arcy would certainly ma*e an absolutely perfect match for her beautiful, serene, gentle
4ane.
If only he could show some interest:
-0r. 3arcy, how are you and 0r. Bingley finding /ertfordshire6.
-It is tolerable madam..
"he matron felt her eye twitch.
Bingley tried not to laugh at the differing emotions felt by his companion and his host. /e was
not blind to 0rs. Bennet's attempt to draw interest towards her daughter, not that he found it a
particular problem on his part, however, it amused him more so the reaction of his friend.
3arcy had shown the same amount of interest in this visit as he had on many others with
Bingley as a bystander as well as a well)meaning conversationalist who would either attempt to
draw his friend out, or shield him entirely.
/owever, there was one thing different with this visit or rather, what occurred before their arrival
to their friend's estate.
?nli*e other occasions where Bingley observed his formidable friend staring impassively at the
other side of the carriage either meditating or attempting not to throw himself out of the moving
vehicle, Bingley had seen 3arcy pacing the length of the fireplace in the library of (etherfield.
It was li*e the many times 3arcy was agitated and even though Bingley had placed it on the
fault of his sister $Bingley had chosen to sleep in for a reason%, he discovered it was something
else entirely when his friend suddenly whirled on him and stated, -I am not a child..
;ith their obviously differing heights and builds, Bingley had no doubt about that.
"hough it was not a completely life altering thing to witness or be privy to by any means, he
*new there was a significance to what occurred while he was indisposed and he was
determined to find out.
;hen the door to the parlor opened and admitted the remaining Bennet girls and their brother,
Bingley noted the slight stiffening of his friend beside him and could not help but wonder which
of the Bennets had caused it.
.
&ongbourn /anor, -ertfordshire
Dear #eorgiana,
It appears I have failed you my dear friend, I have managed to shock your brother today upon
coming across him in the wood. Do not fear, nothing inappropriate came about, his horse was
there to keep me on my best behavior<I can see that you are confused and so I shall e)plain
what has occurred2
,ften, my brother and I assist our father on duties of the estate while my sisters partake in
charity towards our tenants. %ince it is autumn, it is imperative that the estate+s dealings are
kept in control in order to maintain our economy and as such I could not take my usual dawn
stroll until near midmorning.
0s it happens, autumn is a particularly beautiful season in -ertfordshire and I was en3oying the
good weather and my good fortune at the chance to still have my amusements despite my
duties at home and I was acting like a child. I was twirling and dancing amongst the falling
leaves, *uite like a foolish idiot I imagine, though I did not care one whit until your brother
happened upon me.
I remember you saying that he en3oyed his morning ride. It is either he has taken a late ride or
he rides for a *uite a long time for he came upon me 3ust as the sun reached its 'enith.
,n any normal occasion of intrusion I would laugh at myself, make my e)cuses and depart to
toil in my own mortification, however, I was halted by the grand horse your brother rode upon.
I do not think I have told you this, but I am not such a lover of horseflesh as you are.
I can handle my brother+s stallions 3ust fine for 6uck is a rather la'y horse and ,beron is
nothing but a troublemaker, but your brother+s charge was absolutely fearsome. 1ow you know
me not to be afraid of anything, and $harlotte shall vouch for me should you re*uire evidence,
and so I fear I was rather rude to your brother today.
4ell, perhaps not rude per say<I merely teased him after he shared his bread roll with me in
an attempt at an apology, I believe I told him that he looked like a child trying to pacify a silly
girl, which was *uite unnecessary because I was acting perfectly childish and I would not have
thought him ill if he were to leave me as I was. I am afraid I owe your brother an apology and
though I do not like admitting that I am wrong, I cannot leave it be as my conscious will not have
it.
-aving already made your brother endure my immaturity, I find that today he has suffered
enough by my hand and will likely suffer further when he and /r. "ingley arrive to &ongbourn
for supper and I shall apologise to him then and attempt to keep my cheek to myself.
;or now #eorgie, I must bid you adieu for I imagine that I shall have to protect your brother and
/r. "ingley from the scheming clutches of my mama, her seating arrangements and her habit of
over planning.
I shall now leave you in suspense until my ne)t,
&i''y
.
Chapter nine
.
-It is tolerable madam..
"he pair could already see their mother's eye twitch.
Ben tried not to laugh at the stunted silence that followed through the door of the drawing room
and was nudged by his sister as a snort managed to escape him. Eli2abeth gave him an
amused eye roll as she leaned away from the door they once had their ears pressed against.
&t the sign of her retreat, he whispered, -If you would be so *ind as to save our sister from
mama's schemes, I am sure she will be forever in your debt, and if you could find it in your heart
to save my friends as well, I am sure father will not object..
-;e should not be here Ben7 0ama's nerves are in shambles as it is..
-&nd whose fault is that6.
She chuc*led.
;hen it came to their beloved mother's nerves, no one aggravated them more than her second
daughter. ;hich was why prior to the arrival of the two gentlemen beyond the door of the
drawing room, 0rs. Bennet was found wringing her hands in an!iety and ranting loudly about
how troublesome the girl was#
-;hy, ydia was on good behavior today: She was not running rampant in the wood on that
horse of her brother's: Aitty was being e!tra restrained today, she had not been on the roof or
hiding in the apple trees as she normally was: 0ary was not pounding away on her instrument,
playing tune after tune, she was contenting herself with her sermons: ;hy could not Eli2abeth
do the same6.
"hough her second daughter's rambles were well)*nown by the inhabitants of ongbourn and
throughout 0eryton7 with important guests e!pected to arrive, 0rs. Bennet was sure that her
wild daughter would at least heed the chance of a most opportune marriage for her favorite
sister.
0r. Bennet had of course hid in his study, closing the library off in his attempt to protect himself
as soon as his wife made it *nown that she was on the verge of having a fit#
-0y dear I have too much estate business to ta*e care of, I find that I cannot spare the time to
indulge you at present..
-But my dear 0r. Bennet, you must retrieve that wayward child of yours immediately: ;hatever
will 0r. 3arcy and 0r. Bingley thin* about having a daughter missing6.
-3id we not agree madam,. said he as he continued to wal* bris*ly down the hallway towards
his sanctuary, -that unless these gentlemen are polygamists that I will not consent to you pairing
all my daughters with them6.
-8es, yes,. she said dismissively, -be assured, they will be a wife and no less, but thin* of how
rude it will appear to have i22y absent:.
-"hey will thin* nothing of it, why I would thin* you would relish the chance to have all the
attention on the daughter you intend to wed. 3o you not thin* it better that i22y is not here to
give the gentlemen a sound whipping with her quic* mind6.
-&long with the quic* mouth it is attached to,. she decried, but was cut off from verbali2ing
anything further as the door to the library shut.
1rom behind it, her husband responded, -If it suits you my dear, i22y got it from you..
(eedless to say, the gentleman was nowhere to found to offer his daughter respite once she
returned from her afternoon traipsing.
-;hat are you two children doing6.
-5h:. Both jumped at the voice, and turned to see their father standing behind them, his arms
crossed, his brow quir*ed and an amused twin*le in his gray eyes.
-=apa, what are you doing here6.
-/ave you forgotten my dear that though your brother inherits ongbourn, I am still its master6.
-5f course not father,. Ben replied, -she was only curious because you had not come to save
her from mama's nerves when i22y returned to us..
-&h yes, from the gentlemen's arrival I gather6 ;ell, that still does not e!plain why you are
huddled against the door li*e that. 3o you care to e!plain before I punish you for
eavesdropping6.
Ben rubbed the bac* of his nec* and smiled sheepishly. -0ama would not let us meet with
Bingley and 3arcy..
-Is that so6.
-8es sir,. both replied in unison.
-&nd why is that6.
-She is showing off our sister..
-(ot that Bingley seems to mind but I am sure our mother is getting quite annoyed with 3arcy,.
Ben added with a laugh as if he e!pected it from the start which Eli2abeth was inclined to
believe as well.
-&nd how did your mother manage to herd you out of the room without her scheming being
found out by those gentlemen6.
She answered, -It was a tas* 0ama did not have to do7 she informed the gentlemen that we
were not in doors at present..
-&nd where are your sisters6.
-ydia is in the stables tending to =uc*7 0ary is reading her sermons in the garden and Aitty is
visiting the ucas',. she answered counting her three remaining sisters off her fingers.
-;ith Aitty at the ucas', mama does not want to alert the competition so to spea*,. Ben said,
-and she does not want us to distract her while she secures 4ane a husband..
-/ow long has your mother been attempting the scheme6.
-& quarter of an hour,. Eli2abeth replied, -I fear that they have suffered enough, shall we not
retrieve them6.
-et us collect your sisters first, at least then if your mother chooses to be angry, you can all be
punished for allowing 4ane to end up in such a position. &nd to thin*, you were all so against
this attempt when my favorite gentleman was involved..
.
;hile 0r. Bennet, his favorite daughter and his heir assembled the remaining members of their
family, within the drawing room the family matron was at her wits end.
-0y 4ane has always been called the loveliest woman in 0eryton, even /ertfordshire to be sure:
"he gem of the neighborhood, neigh, the gem of the entire county,. 0rs. Bennet proclaimed
receiving an understanding nod from the ever attentive 0r. Bingley who was seated across from
4ane while the man seated beside the young woman was as blan* as ever.
Seeing as this still did not garner any response from the desired gentleman, 0rs. Bennet
continued with more gusto, -4ane has always been favored by children, li*ed by everyone who
meets her. &lways so serene and gentle, my 4ane is so well suited to any man..
&lready very uncomfortable with the contents of the conversation and now even more so that
whatever subtlety her mother had was at its end, 4ane offered, -0other, surely these gentlemen
would rather hear of something of import6.
&t the sight of relief, 0r. 3arcy spo*e for the first time in almost a full ten minutes, -I believe it
would be in Bingley's best interest to be advised on his introduction to the neighborhood..
-5f course, of course 0r. 3arcy, how very insightful you are:. 0rs. Bennet praised in the same
jubilant fashion as her youngest daughter as if her hope was revived by his longer than usual
response.
/e resisted the urge to flinch while Bingley attempted not to laugh at his friend's obvious
displeasure.
-I believe Sir ;illiam will do quite well. 8es, he will get you acquainted with everyone in the
neighborhood7 indeed he is certainly well versed in conversation and so very amiable:. "he
lady's statement was said to Bingley, however, she could not stop the pointed words that left her
mouth as they were directed precisely at 3arcy who did not even blin* at the slight, but had
immediately decided to *eep his silence for the remainder of the visit.
-I than* you for the information madam7 I would very much li*e to ma*e a good impression on
the neighborhood,. Bingley than*ed her, only heightening 0rs. Bennet's e!citement as she tried
to cover up her sharp reply with more compliments to both gentlemen, in particular 3arcy.
9eprieve was than*fully on its way as the doors to the drawing room were opened, admitting the
rest of the Bennet family.
.
Before 0rs. Bennet could attempt to hold the two gentlemen longer in the drawing room where
she could properly direct their $0r. 3arcy's% focus on 4ane, her dear son had insisted that a
short tour around the estate was necessary. &fter all, the two gentlemen were to stay until
supper and as it was still an hour to the meal Ben claimed that some form of e!ercise would
increase their appetite to properly enjoy the meal his mother planned.
It was too late to thin* of any e!cuses against the scheme and so the group consisting of 4ane,
0r. 3arcy, Eli2abeth, Ben, 0r. Bingley and 0ary left the drawing room.
ydia and Aitty had declared that they were in need of their mother's good taste on the dresses
they were to wear to the 0eryton &ssembly and so even though 0rs. Bennet could not place
4ane upon a pedestal for 0r. 3arcy's approval, she could at least concentrate on her two
youngest daughters#
-5h my Aitty, how well you loo* in such a gown, but I am sure we can do much better, can we
not6. &t Aitty's obedient nod, 0rs. Bennet now turned to her youngest. -(ow my dearest ydia,
do you not thin* that this gown is better suited, or possibly this one6 5h my, my dear girl, you
are far too beautiful indeed for you loo* well in them all: Come, try this one, I am sure it will
ensure you will loo* your best:.
If the sisters grimaced, she chose not to notice.
.
ongbourn 0anor was certainly e!tensive for a small estate. "he house was by no means
grand, but it was lived in and spacious. ?nli*e (etherfield with its impersonal furnishings and
9osings' gaudy grandeur, ongbourn was all that a home should loo* li*e. In a way, it was li*e a
smaller, yet fuller =emberley.
-&nd this is the library,. 0iss Bennet said as they entered the room.
It was not as big as (etherfield's, but its shelves were overflowing with tomes and novels. &s he
entered the aisle down the middle, he could see the spines of the boo*s were slightly bent
showing how often they were read.
"hrough the mus* of the novels that lined the shelves, 3arcy detected a light hint of rosewater.
-5ur father is a great reader,. 0iss Eli2abeth murmured as if to avoid rousing him from the
peace she saw in his face. "he harsh angles of his visage seemed softer now that he was not
scowling or frowning.
-Indeed..
-&ll of these,. said she, trailing her fingers along the spines reverently, -have been in our family
for a long time. I thin* it is hereditary to have such a love for boo*s..
-0y family is much the same, it is li*ely that your suspicion is true,. 3arcy uttered his voice just
as soft as hers.
-I hope not,. Bingley said as he wal*ed past, -I am afraid my library is quite pitiful especially
compared to =emberley's..
-I am sure that is not true,. 0iss Bennet assured smiling *indly as she followed after him.
-& library suits the needs of its master,. 0iss 0ary said in her usual somber way, -an equipped
library may be a necessity for some while simply an entertainment for others. "hough I have
observed that the more boo*s a person reads7 the more learned a person tends to be..
& thoughtful crease in his brow appeared and once she noticed, 0iss Eli2abeth spo*e, -3o you
not thin* that rings true sir6.
-(ot at all 0iss Eli2abeth for you can read any number of boo*s you desire, but it is nothing if
you do not understand it..
-;ell, I cannot challenge such logic, but pray7 do not the types of boo*s you read matter as
well6.
-5f course, but we cannot account for taste,. he answered as they wal*ed side by side down the
aisle, a title of a boo* a few feet ahead caught his eye and gave him pause. -"a*e this for
e!ample, you would not read the wor* of Sha*espeare's tragedies because you were not
inclined to it and yet I would..
-3oes it suit your nature to assume such things sir6.
-Beg your pardon6.
She chuc*led. -I was only as*ing if you always generali2e in this way, my father read the
tragedies to me often as a child. Indeed I only found out that Sha*espeare wrote things beyond
that when I was ten and could search the library without my father's assistance..
-0ost ladies of my acquaintance prefer not to read such things.. &s far as he *new about the
preferences in ladies' literature it did not include ady 0acbeth and her demands to be
>unse!ed' by nefarious creatures. -"hey prefer the sonnets,. he finished flatly.
"he laugh that came forth from her confused him, but it did not appear that she was laughing at
him. "hough as usual, his need to be unpleasant when embarrassed resurfaced# -3o you enjoy
laughing at others 0iss Eli2abeth6.
3espite his sharp words, she only shoo* her head with a smile, the way her eyes danced
distracting him momentarily from his annoyed aw*wardness.
-I dearly love to laugh 0r. 3arcy7 however, if you thin* that I find humor in your discomfort you
are mista*en..
/e gave her a blan* stare and still her eyes twin*led in amusement. -It is only that I have never
really thought of the differing tastes of men and women when it came to literature, only that
those enjoy one boo* over the other, I had not reali2ed there was a stereotype until we have
spo*en. 3o you mean to say that you do not enjoy Sha*espeare's sonnets simply because you
are a gentleman6.
-"hose I have read are of love,. answered he, -and as I understand, poetry is the food of love..
-&h, well I would agree, however, the gentleman that wrote my sister the lines my mother spo*e
of put me off the idea completely..
-Is that so6.
-Certainly,. she answered with a grin, -one poor sonnet will *ill love stone dead.. "urning to
continue down the aisle, she mused, -I wonder who first discovered the power of poetry in
driving away love6.
-=erhaps you shall blame Sha*espeare6.
-(o, I would never do that. I do not care to have a great writer rolling in his grave over my disli*e
of poetry, even his. It would not be polite..
-8es, but considering your habit to eavesdrop on conversations, I would have thought it was of
no consequence..
3espite his unreadable e!pression, she laughed and if she saw a slight upward pull upon his
lips, she said nothing.
.
It did not surprise Eli2abeth to discover the seating arrangements for supper.
She was always seated close to her mother if only to *eep a close eye on her $and to pinch her
should she say something she should not% and most li*ely 0rs. Bennet placed 0r. Bingley in
between her and ydia in order to ensure that one of them would get his attention.
"he fact that 0rs. Bennet placed 4ane and 0r. 3arcy beside each other was also no shoc*.
0rs. Bennet was already planning to order 4ane's wedding clothes as far as she was
concerned.
It only worried Eli2abeth that 0r. 3arcy was seated right beside her mother.
/ow am I to *eep mama at bay6 She found herself thin*ing.
"a*ing in a discrete breath through the nose in preparation for the colossal tas* at hand,
Eli2abeth found herself being watched very closely by the man seated across from her as a
small bowl of freshly ba*ed bread was set in front of them.
& mischievous twin*le shone in her eye and 0r. 3arcy seemed to notice, at least by the way he
shifted uncomfortably in his chair and the way his colour heightened at her request for the bread
rolls. -If you would be so *ind sir, our coo*'s bread rolls give me great comfort..
1rom 0r. 3arcy's side, 4ane's brow arched and at the slight twitch of Eli2abeth's mouth, 4ane
gave a small nod and began the dinner conversation, -5ur coo* ma*es the best bread. I find
that it is best to start a meal with one before beginning such a hearty feast as this, pray, I beg
you to try some..
"hough not aimed at any one in particular, 0r. Bingley agreed, -5f course 0iss Bennet, we shall
trust your judgment though I am often told that starting a meal with many glasses of water is
preferable..
-It is 0r. Bingley, it is simply better for one's health. "hat is what I have read at least, having so
many children I must be informed of such things you *now, however, my 4ane is not wrong
either,. 0rs. Bennet said after draining her own glass of water.
-If I am not wrong, it is only because you taught me well mama, will you not share some more of
your wisdom with us6.
-;hy of course my dear, I would be delighted,. her mother answered.
If there was one topic that their mother was not ill)informed in it was on the matter of one's
health. /aving feared for many years that 0r. Bennet would not survive long enough for her to
give birth to a son, and then fretting over the heir not reaching adulthood, the Bennet matron
was well versed in many ways of healing.
0r. Bennet had quipped that if his wife had an in*ling of ambition to become a physician, 0rs.
Bennet would leave him to pursue it.
;ith many things of import to communicate, 0rs. Bennet was not able to give her full attention
to the rich gentleman beside her, however, that is not to say that she had completely forgotten
the tas* she had at hand# putting her daughters in the best light she could.
-E!ercise is good for one's constitution, than*fully all my children have a love for the outdoors7
Benjamin has taught all his sisters to ride,. 0rs. Bennet informed, and as she glanced at 0r.
3arcy who was focusing very hard on his meal, she added, -all my girls stri*e a rather
magnificent figure on horsebac*, but my 4ane is certainly the most graceful..
ydia huffed, but managed not to pout at the jo*ing jab to her rib from her brother and the slight
eye roll of her father before 0r. Bennet declared in moc* disappointment, -8es, I would have
done so, but unfortunately I am a rather terrible seat..
-"hat is unfortunate sir,. 0r. Bingley commented, -I *now from 3arcy that matters of the estate
sometimes require you to visit tenants and such, does it affect you6.
-5h not at all, I am not a great rider, but when needed I am tolerable, however, I do much prefer
to wal*..
0rs. Bennet hummed in agreement, -8es, I suppose that is where i22y gets it from. She is
always traipsing up and down everywhere. ;hy sometimes I cannot even find her for she
leaves too quic*ly and returns too late.. Sending her a disapproving loo*, she continued, -But it
is well that i22y does not ride, her first fall was rather terrible indeed. "he horse buc*led and
went quite berser*, if she had not rolled over after she had fallen, that creature may have very
well *illed her:.
?nnoticed by her, 3arcy had finally loo*ed up from his meal. 1irst to loo* incredulous at the
casual way 0rs. Bennet had imparted such a thing and then to loo* to the young woman across
him.
0iss Eli2abeth seemed to free2e in the midst of cutting a piece of meat, the colour from her
chee*s rising in embarrassment.
1eeling eyes on her, she loo*ed up to meet his ga2e and gave him a wan smile and a slight
shrug.
In the silence following her mother's declaration, 0iss Eli2abeth said, -I suppose that was my
first punishment for being such a wild child, I wanted to brea* a stallion in on my first ride so of
course it did not end well. =erhaps if I had been less stubborn I might be just as good a rider as
the rest of my siblings, and if I had the commitment to pursue such a hobby I might be just as
good as ydia and Ben..
0iss Catherine sighed dramatically. -I do not have the dedication ydia has to ride so well, =uc*
is a rather la2y horse and it ta*es too long to even e!ercise him. (o, I much prefer the views
while the sun is still out, I do not wish to wait until dus* for the horse to ta*e me anywhere..
-;hat views do you enjoy 0iss Catherine6. Bingley as*ed eliciting an embarrassed flush as she
smiled sheepishly at her plate.
-Ben, did you not say that 0r. Bingley and 0r. 3arcy are avid riders6 /ave you told them of the
many trails the county has to offer6. 0iss Bennet interjected to redirect the focus off her self)
conscious sibling.
-(o I am afraid not, I than* you for reminding me 4ane, it quite crossed my mind for usually they
are always showing me such places,. Bennet claimed with a sha*e of his head, -=ardon me my
friends for my lac* of insight in the matter, I must show you around /ertfordshire, the best trails
are usually un*nown to anyone but the locals..
-8es, you must ride with us some day, we shall reveal all the secrets that the woods of
/ertfordshire have to you if you would join us,. 0iss ydia declared receiving an approving nod
from her mother.
-I find,. 3arcy heard himself say, -that the best secrets are discovered unintentionally..
-i*e what 0r. 3arcy6. 0iss Catherine as*ed.
/e resisted the urge to loo* directly at 0iss Eli2abeth as he answered, -;hy, li*e dancing
sprites..
.
Supper with the Bennets was one of the most casual affairs 3arcy had ever parta*en in.
It was not as uncomfortable as he thought it would be even after his rather whimsical statement,
in fact the youngest Bennet girls seemed to find this e!tremely diverting and mused that
perhaps they should attempt to find the dancing sprites on the morrow.
0rs. Bennet, however, was not amused by their idea.
;hen supper concluded, instead of diverging from the ladies, the entire party simply separated
regardless of gender and was informed by the lady of the house that coffee and tea would be in
the drawing room in half an hour.
0rs. Bennet wished for her eldest daughter's presence in the drawing room and Bingley, having
found that he enjoyed 0iss Bennet's company, joined them.
0r. Bennet lamented the lac* of gentlemanly company to attend him in his study and instead
joined his wife and daughter in the drawing room. 3arcy suspected that the older gentleman
adjoined if only to protect Bingley from 0rs. Bennet.
0iss 0ary and 0iss Catherine e!cused themselves to the library where 0iss 0ary was on the
search for a particular piece of wor* by 1ordyce and 0iss Catherine wanted to loo* for a boo*
on sprites while the remaining members of the party concluded to the stables.
-"his is =uc*,. 0iss ydia introduced as she stepped atop a fallen barrel and rested her folded
arms atop the stall. -/e is rather lethargic, but I adore him..
-I am glad you are ta*ing such good care of him,. Bennet said, reaching into the stall to offer the
stallion a carrot.
=eering past the two siblings, 3arcy saw the horse standing proudly, his tail swishing behind
him as he shoo* his chestnut mane. &s 0iss Eli2abeth stood at the door of the stall, the
creature moved forward to nudge her shoulder and whine quietly.
She rolled her eyes good naturedly. -I thin* =uc* is rather ungrateful, you have already given
him a carrot and there he is pleading for more..
-;ell perhaps you should not carry food with him around,. 0iss ydia said, -he *nows you too
well:.
=uc* whined again, nudging 0iss Eli2abeth's shoulder once more before she scolded, -Come
now =uc*, Ben's other horse is not so greedy7 do you hear 5beron being so difficult6.
-(o, but that is li*ely because he would rather ta*e than as* permission,. Bennet said
laughingly as the horse in the ne!t stall managed to stic* his head far enough out of his
confinement to snatch the apple from 0iss Eli2abeth's poc*et.
0iss ydia burst in a fit of giggles. -See, my =uc* is more polite than 5beron is:.
Seeing as his treat was gone, =uc* huffed and turned away in indignation while 5beron, the
dus*y brown horse in the stall beside his, seemed to snic*er.
-5h do not whine so =uc*,. 0iss ydia cooed, -I shall get you your own, and it shall be much
bigger and shiner then 5beron's:. 4umping off the barrel, she tugged Bennet by his arm towards
the open doors of the stable. -Come Benny, you must get one for me:.
-;hy must I6.
-3o not whine Ben: I can very well do it myself, but mama will throw a fit if she finds me climbing
trees: >It is bad enough Aitty does it,' she will say..
9eleasing an annoyed sigh Bennet assented and turning to his older sister and 3arcy, he said,
-8ou will have to e!cuse me at this time7 my sister is too much li*e my mother# when she
demands something it is to be done before her nerves are too seriously agitated..
-Ben,. 0iss ydia whined, -It was your horse who too* =uc*'s apple:.
-"hen why is it not my horse that is retrieving another one6.
-I cannot very well as* a horse to fetch an apple without e!pecting him to eat it:.
"he argument between the two siblings drifted out of the stables leaving 3arcy with 0iss
Eli2abeth who loo*ed between the two horses in mild annoyance.
-/onestly, had it occurred to your riders that perhaps that apple was for me6.
In reply, both horses snorted as if the idea was preposterous. She rolled her eyes while 3arcy
swallowed his chuc*le.
-It seems 0iss Eli2abeth that you really are not afraid of horses..
She jumped as if forgetting he was there, however, 0iss Eli2abeth notched her chin higher. -I
believe I already told you that 0r. 3arcy7 is it possible you have come to believe me now6.
/e shoo* his head at her. -I was merely agreeing with you 0iss Eli2abeth, you cannot have
e!pected me to believe you earlier when you loo*ed at my horse as if e!pecting him to eat you..
-8our horse is fearsome sir,. she stated flatly, -these two are nothing but troublema*ers..
-;ell I cannot argue with you in that..
"he young woman chuc*led and a pause filled the air. It was the first time since arriving to
ongbourn that there was silence and usually it would be a great reprieve for the somber
gentleman, but at this moment he felt oddly confused by it. ;hen he ventured to say something,
she too opened her mouth as well and they tumbled aw*wardly in their attempt to say
something.
-8ou first,. said she with a laugh.
-I insist..
;aiting a moment for her giggles to subside, she obliged him, -I only wished to tell you that I am
sorry for my behavior earlier in the wood.. She stared into the eyes of =uc* and therefore did
not notice his eyes on her. -I felt mortified that someone happened upon me, though it is my
fault for acting so foolish. 8our horse, however, is indeed frightful and I was quite surprised by
your presence as it was, having that great beast only worsened it I admit..
-I should not have scared you in any case,. said he, -&chilles is a rather curious animal and he
would rather ignore me than allow me to guide him, if I had *nown ).
-Anown what sir6. she interrupted, turning to loo* at him now, -"hat I would react so to your
horse6 3o not worry7 my behavior was not your fault..
-But the fault of my horse6. he added, eliciting a chuc*le from the young woman.
-;ell yes, but I should not have acted so rudely to you,. said she just an arch smile touched her
lips, -especially since you were so *ind to share your brea*fast with me..
?pon noticing the sudden flush of colour on his chee*s, 0iss Eli2abeth laughed and reached
into her poc*et, offering him a bread roll.
->"is only fair..
.
Chapter ten
.
-Supper tonight was rather interesting, do you not agree i22y6.
-&s interesting as any supper with 0ama involved, though I admit their presence made it
tolerable..
-Simply tolerable dearest, why, your actions during their visit have said otherwise,. 4ane teased.
-8ou seemed rather preoccupied by 0r. 3arcy..
-&nd you had not with his friend6. retorted she as she settled atop the counterpane and undid
her hair from the neat braid.
"hough her sister blushed, it was followed by a nonchalant shrug. -It has been a great relief to
finally have an e!change of good sense with a gentleman. 8ou cannot blame me for indulging
after mama has constantly set me with 0r. Stewart..
-8es, I suppose with a gentleman li*e 0r. Stewart, you cannot be blamed at all. But when is the
revered 4ane Bennet to be blamed for anything, but her subtle manipulation6 I must say you did
a fantastic job *eeping mama from 0r. 3arcy..
-;ell Benny did say he was not a very social creature and no matter how much ydia disli*es
him, no one deserves to have mama set her cap upon them for our sa*e..
Eli2abeth only shoo* her head and laughed.
&fter her brother and youngest sister returned to the stable with a shiny apple in hand for =uc*,
0r. 3arcy had once again *ept to the silence he was already *nown for and ydia, having been
disposed to disli*e him from the outset, determined it must be because of her dirty sleeves and
the mud that gathered a little at the hem of her petticoats.
&s their company of four was summoned to the drawing room for tea, coffee and some musical
performance of sorts, ydia grumbled her indignation over the tall gentleman's sudden silence
on her reappearance#
-/e must thin* very ill of me indeed if he is so animated when I leave, and yet so serious when I
arrive: /e is li*e 0ary, always loo*ing for something to disapprove of:.
5f course Eli2abeth had tried to dissuade this tal* especially with the gentleman in question
behind them, -(ow ydia, I hardly thin* that is the case. I am sure he had not even noticed that
your sleeves were dirty or your petticoat has caught some mud..
-/e did notice:. the young girl proclaimed, -;hy would he suddenly *eep silent otherwise6.
Eli2abeth had not the answer, but than*fully was saved the meaningful loo* of her sister when
they reached the drawing room.
1or the remainder of the visit, 0r. 3arcy li*ely hearing the earlier discourse, *ept to himself and
remained at the window to stare into the dar*ening landscape outside, much as he did on his
first visit. But whether he too* to this occupation in order to escape her mother's notice or there
was truly something diverting outside, Eli2abeth could not say.
ydia scornfully declared in a loud whisper that 0r. 3arcy had acted cordially enough and had
grown tired of their >country manners' to indulge them further.
"heir father, hearing the statement, raised a brow and said nothing but his pursed lips were an
indication of his withholding a witty comment. /e incited enough of his wife's nerves just that
afternoon and he was not inclined to be shrie*ed at once their guests departed.
Aitty, however, proved she really was his daughter when she responded to ydia, -=erhaps he is
simply loo*ing for sprites.. "urning to Eli2abeth, who had sat her side, she as*ed, -/ave you
seen the sprites i22y6 8ou must have for you wal* often7 perhaps 0r. 3arcy is having trouble
finding them. 8ou must help him for he is loo*ing rather grave without them:.
Seeming to recall Aitty's words from earlier in the evening, 4ane gave a grin. -&h, Aitty made an
e!cellent point# /ave you seen the sprites i22y6.
"his question was answered with a shrug and a win* before the sisters giggled.
-I fear you have *ept silent about a great many things dearest, will you not tell me6.
ying side by side atop the counterpane of their shared bed, she appeared to be contemplating.
-I do not *now 4ane+I *now you abhor secrecy of any *ind and I have no mind to tell you half
truths+.
-I understand i22y,. she said with a smile, -but I have an in*ling that 0r. 3arcy favors you for he
spea*s to no one outside of Benny, 0r. Bingley and yourself. ;ill you tell me all there is before I
am to wish you joy6.
Eli2abeth laughed. -"hen I shall never tell you 4ane for you will never have to wish me joy. 0r.
3arcy does not favor me at all:.
-&h, but you have been acting strangely since his arrival..
-I am always acting strange, in fact, I am strange,. she declared, -wherever else does Aitty get it
from6.
-=erhaps from me dearest, I am not as plain as I ma*e myself to be you *now. &t least one of us
must not upset mama's nerves,. 4ane said seriously eliciting another laugh from her sister which
caused a smile to brea* through the facade.
-It is a pity you have chosen to be the responsible one sweeting, perhaps if you were as strange
and boisterous as Aitty, ydia and I, 0r. Stewart would not favor you as you say 0r. 3arcy
favors me..
Even though her sister's words were said in jest, there was something in her tone that 4ane
heard. It was that little something that she had often caught when any gentlemen came upon
their bac*water county and met the acquaintances of the reputed beauties of /ertfordshire.
It was public *nowledge that 4ane was the prettiest of the girls with Eli2abeth deemed >pretty
enough' in comparison. 3espite brushing such comments off, 4ane *new that it was a chip in
her armor.
-I shall ma*e a deal with you i22y,. began she, -even though mama has decided I shall set my
cap upon 0r. 3arcy, I am assured that he shall as* you for a set at the assembly. ;hen he
does, we shall *now for sure that he favors you..
-&nd where is the challenge in this, what do you get from it6.
-;hy, the happiness of my favorite sister of course:.
-But ).
"he loo* 4ane sent to her younger sister applied for obedience. -;hen he as*s you to dance,
you shall say yes,. she instructed.
-8es 4ane..
-&nd you shall charm him and ma*e him smile and you shall allow me to wish you happiness:.
-But what if he does not as* me to dance 4ane6.
-"hen he is a fool and simply the tall, prideful idiot that ydia claims him to be..
.
6emberley, Derbyshire
Dearest 4illiam,
-ow I envy you brother: -ow lucky you are to meet &i''y: I wish I was so lucky as to be with
you for to meet her would me make me the happiest creature in all of England:
Did you know that she is friends with my companion /iss &ucas. %he has told me all the
stories of &i''y and her sisters, as well as all the trouble /iss &ucas has gotten into because of
&i''y+s playfulness. ,h, please speak to her often for I cannot be there myself and I wish to
know so much more about her:
"oth &i''y and /iss &ucas have spoken highly of -ertfordshire, is it as beautiful as they say.
(he weather here is terribly chilly and as you and /rs. Reynolds have told /iss &ucas about
the illnesses that are rampant during the changing seasons in the 1orth, she has limited my
access to the garden and made me drink lemon tea often. It is a shame because I dearly wish
to see the trees as they are starting to lose their leaves and all their beautiful colours are truly
enchanting, though it is sad to see the empty branches<
(hough the weather is poor, /rs. Reynolds and /iss &ucas are keeping me occupied and
entertained by teaching me some things about being a hostess5 they allow me to practice by
serving tea to them and meeting some of the visitors that come to the estate. I was very
nervous about it at first, but &i''y has told me that to master an occupation one must fre*uently
practice.
I hope that all is well with /r. "ingley and his sisters, and I hope that you are en3oying your stay
with him as well.
6lease do say hello to &i''y for me, and tell her that I shall send her another sketch with my
ne)t letter.
4rite to me soon brother, I really do miss you,
#eorgie
.
3arcy hated balls, assemblies and any other large gathering.
"he man of eight and twenty was not comfortable around people at all despite the sphere he
was born into. /e supposed that it was the disadvantage of residing in the remote haven of
=emberley without the company of anyone outside of his family. 5f course, his decision in that
could not be faulted.
;ith his increasing eligibility due to many successful business ventures, his lin* to the peerage,
his favorable connections and his rather attractive appearance 3arcy had everything needed to
draw a desirable woman. ?nfortunately he was in possession of a quiet disposition and his habit
of being offensive when embarrassed turned 3arcy into someone Bennet had jo*ed would be
the last man any woman would want to marry.
5f course 3arcy could not indulge in such a thought, after all, if it were true, he would not be
constantly chased around by hopeful mother)in)laws and their insipid daughters.
It was a great relief to him then upon meeting the Bennet girls that none of them seemed to be
seriously inclined towards him. ;ell, at least inclined to marry him.
0rs. Bennet seemed willing and able to became mother)in)law to >the last man any woman
would want to marry' and the youngest 0iss Bennet seemed incline to hate him.
&s much as the last amused him and confused him, 3arcy still had this current predicament at
hand.
"he fact that everyone was currently staring at him+
/e *new that new neighbors tended to attract the most attention, especially if the new neighbors
happened to be rich and unmarried. 3iscretely he released a breath through the nose.
Someone echoed in the still silence of the assembly hall, -"en thousand a year..
It was going to be a long night.
.
0r. Bingley did not seem unruffled by the continued silence7 he simply smiled and loo*ed to his
party, -Shall we6.
&lmost immediately, the musicians shoo* their heads, releasing themselves of the brief trance
they were in at the sight of the finely dressed ladies and gentlemen of the (etherfield party.
&bruptly the music began anew.
&ll around the room, the attending seemed to be dissecting the new arrivals.
"he new neighbor, 0r. Bingley was medium in height compared to his male companions with
curly gold hair and fair s*in with eyes li*e amber7 he was dressed in an immaculate green coat
and neatly done cravat befitting of a gentleman of five thousand pounds.
& portly man that appeared to have a sort of hunch was ne!t under the line of inspection, 0r.
Bingley's brother)in)law, the gossipers whispered, just as rich, but being married was
overloo*ed though mainly because of the gentleman being e!amined after him.
0r. 3arcy was a tall and regal loo*ing man compared to the grinning, unassuming 0r. Bingley,
and loo*ed to be intelligent and serious compared to the bored and possibly drun* 0r. /urst.
;ith eyes li*e ice and hair li*e ony! the gentleman loo*ed to have the air of someone with ten
thousand pounds.
&s for ladies of the party, their beautiful dresses were awed and ooh)ed at by the attending
female population of 0eryton.
0rs. /urst was dressed finely in a pin* gown ma*ing her loo* years younger if it were not for the
heavy layer of powder she had on her face while her sister, 0iss Bingley was dressed in a deep
orange gown with an intricate headdress made of various coloured feathers.
-;hat *ind of bird crashed into her hair6. ydia as*ed aloud eliciting scandali2ed gasps from
those who heard her.
/er siblings, however, merely coughed to cover their laughter while 0r. Bennet chuc*led into his
cup. 0rs. Bennet was too concerned about gossiping with ady ucas to care or hear what her
youngest had said#
-8es, that is them ady ucas, indeed, those are the gentlemen I have told you of. "hey dined
with us just two nights past. "hey seemed quite ta*en with 4ane, the both of them, but of
course, I had not e!pected anything less,. 0rs. Bennet claimed casually, her comment eliciting
various snorts and eye rolls from her children and a loo* of annoyance from 0r. Stewart.
?nli*e the rest of the community, having new neighbors did not sit well with the gentleman of
eight thousand a year.
9egardless of the fact that he was situated in /ertfordshire for almost half a twelfth month, 0r.
Stewart had monopoli2ed the attention he had received from the people of 0eryton, particularly
the female company, and just as quic*ly as he had 0iss Bennet's attentions in his grasp, he was
being cast aside.
/e cleared his throat. -0iss Bennet, if you would be so *ind as to ).
-&nd these are the Bennets along with my own family, the ucases,. Sir ;illiam interrupted as
he arrived with the new neighbors.
-"his is my wife ady ucas and my daughter 0aria,. Sir ;illiam began, -I am proud to
introduce you to our new neighbors, 0r. Bingley, 0iss Bingley, 0r. and 0rs. /urst and 0r.
3arcy.. Introductions made, gentlemen bowed and ladies curtseyed, Sir ;illiam moved on to
the party sharing a table with his family and the other gentleman standing with them. -"his is 0r.
and 0rs. Bennet, their five daughters and their son, and this young man is 0r. Stewart..
/aving been as demure and generally unresponsive to the other introductions 0iss Bingley had
raised a brow at the mention of the name, having overheard a conversation after the evening
without 0r. 3arcy's company#
-She is an angel 3arcy:. Charles proclaimed in the study of (etherfield.
-&s you have often said of many ladies Bingley..
-;ell you would agree if you had paid attention to her,. retorted Charles, -but it seems you were
far too entrapped by her sister. "hough I must commend you 3arcy, you managed not to scare
her off with your lac*ing social s*ills..
"o Caroline's horror, 0r. 3arcy did not deny the claim and her brother continued in amusement,
-(ow I find it no surprise that Bennet would hide his sisters from us, they are very beautiful
indeed..
oo*ing at the young ladies assembled before her, Caroline found that she had nothing to fear.
"here was only one young lady that seemed to resemble any *ind of beauty she was used to, a
classical belle in the form of the eldest 0iss Bennet, but she was immediately eliminated as a
possible threat when it was obvious her brother had a shine for her#
-It is wonderful to see you here 0r. Bingley,. 0iss Bennet greeted before adding quic*ly at her
mother's none too subtle nudge to her arm, -as it is to see you 0r. 3arcy..
0r. Bingley noticed this and smiled. -0ay I have the pleasure of introducing my sister, Caroline
Bingley and ouisa /urst, and my brother)in)law, &ndrew /urst..
&ll the ladies of the ongbourn party curtseyed and Ben and his father bowed, with 0rs. Bennet
gushing, -It is an honor to meet your acquaintance, any family of 0r. Bingely's will be well
received here I am sure..
-I than* you for the compliment 0rs. Bennet,. 0r. Bingley replied, smiling graciously as he
turned slightly to spea* to 4ane, -I was wondering if you are not occupied 0iss Bennet, if I could
have the first set6.
-(o:.
Everyone turned to loo* at 0r. Stewart in both confusion and surprise.
Clearing his throat again, he said, -0iss Bennet has *indly offered me her hand for the first set..
&nd without waiting for a response from anyone, 0r. Stewart all but pulled 0iss Bennet to her
feet and was ready to drag her off before Bingley could intervene7 than*fully Bingley was
nothing if not persistent.
-"hen if I may claim your second 0iss Bennet6.
"he loo* of surprise mingled with the sadness from not being able to accept his offer,
completely dissipated as 0iss Bennet smiled at him. -I would be honored sir..
&round them, the music commenced for the first set and it rather suddenly dawned on Bingley
that he was without a partner and still standing before the joint table of the two most prominent
families in the area with nothing to say. Bolloc*s.
Bennet, seeing his friend's predicament, offered, -If you would Bingley, I believe my sister i22y
is unoccupied at this moment..
-5f course,. Bingley immediately brightened, -that is, if you do not mind 0iss Eli2abeth6.
-(o, indeed, I would be delighted..
0iss Bingley supposed this >0iss Eli2abeth' droll loo*ing as she was, was not ugly, though
nothing to the eldest 0iss Bennet. /owever, she had already turned her nose up at this family
and at the thinly veiled loo*s of boredom from her sister and brother)in)law7 she *new she was
not the only one.
,lancing at 0r. 3arcy, she had e!pected him to loo* just as severe as he always did and found
that it was just different in this instance# "he tall gentleman loo*ed just as he did on most social
occasions, however, there was an underlying tone of irritation in the way his jaw seemed to be
clenched and the way his eyes narrowed slightly.
;hat on earth6
-5h my, I adore this song:. 5ne of the other Bennet girls claimed as she tugged on the hand of
a bored loo*ing brunette. -Come 0ary, you must dance with me:.
"he girl sighed. -0ust I Aitty6.
-8es you must:.
& defeated sigh left her before they departed, soon followed by 0rs. /urst who had grown tired
of smiling and insisted her husband dance with her, leaving the group as quic*ly as possible to
avoid being dragged into another introduction to anymore savage families.
"he matrons of the Bennet and ucas family wandered off to share news with the rest of the
mothers in attendance, with an e!citement that went beyond 0rs. Bennet's usual limits# -0y
i22y is dancing with 0r. Bingley:. leaving their remaining, partner)less children to themselves.
/owever, it was not for long as Sir. ;illiam declared to the table, -I must insist that you all
dance, it will do no good for you to simply sit here. Come, dance, dance:.
Intent on ensuring everyone was with a partner, Sir ;illiam grabbed the ne!t gentleman that
wal*ed by and offered him up to 0iss Bingley who did not refuse# "he best way to bait a
possible husband is to ma*e him believe that other options are available, and so with an
e!aggerated flutter of her lashes, she consented and was ta*en to join the rest of the dancing
couples.
ydia watched with a longing sigh before ushering 0aria into conversation in an attempt to *eep
her friend from Sir ;illiam's notice.
But even though they were out of earshot, he would not be dissuaded as he turned his attention
to the most eligible gentleman in the county and said, -0r. 3arcy, I believe my daughter 0aria is
quite without a partner..
"he gentleman merely nodded in reply.
-;ill you not dance sir6.
-I am afraid I cannot sir, I do not li*e dancing..
/is response surprised the older gentleman, but only caused a soft chuc*le from the senior 0r.
Bennet. /owever, his youngest daughter did not find amusement in this as she immediately
turned upon the horrific admittance. -/ow can you detest dancing 0r. 3arcy6.
-I do not detest it 0iss ydia, I merely do not enjoy it..
She huffed and turned to her father. -Surely that is not fair. /e is allowed to dance but does not,
and I am not allowed to dance but wish to..
&s was 0r. Bennet's rule, ydia was to sit out the first set of the evening as well as the dinner
set unless she was standing with one of her sisters. 3espite 0rs. Bennet's attempt to eliminate
the rule entirely, 0r. Bennet was firm on having at least two of the prominent sets out of bounds
for ydia was neither old enough nor mature enough to parta*e in them.
0r. Bennet's eyes glinted in amusement. -I am sorry you feel that way ydia, but if 0r. 3arcy will
entertain you then I will allow you to dance the first set with him, but only the first set..
"he audacity: 0r. 3arcy thought, but was not able to properly compose himself to anger when
the young girl brightened and turned to him with a pleading loo*. -=lease sir, I promise I will not
trod on your toes, I really am I good dancer, please sir:.
3arcy wanted to groan.
0iss ydia, in both age and somewhat in appearance in regards to her blonde hair, reminded
him of ,eorgiana, and the gentleman adored his sister too much to deny her much of anything
especially considering the past summer.
-Come along 0iss ydia..
"he girl cheered as she bounced off her chair, practically dragging him towards the floor of
dancing people.
&t the obvious e!citement of her youngest sister, Ben shoo* his head in bemusement. -1ather,
was that such a good idea6.
-But of course, who puts more people at ease then i22y6. /e as*ed his son, the twin*le in his
eyes never fading as 0r. 3arcy reluctantly too* his stance across from his youngest child.
-;ell, ydia,. Ben replied, -but are you sure you want her to dance with 3arcy6 /ave you not
heard her go on about how she detests him so6.
-ydia is li*e her mother, she judges far too quic*ly. Besides, she also cares too much for
dancing to worry about who she is dancing with..
-&nd what of 3arcy6.
-/e had his chance to refuse her, and he did not. If he regrets the decision it was his to ma*e..
-0ust you find amusement in such a way father6.
-But of course Ben, that is the only reason I attend these gatherings..
.
It was nearing the half hour mar* and Eli2abeth could not have been happier.
&s good a dance partner 0r. Bingley was, his attention was elsewhere, particularly with her
sister 4ane.
(ot that Eli2abeth felt insulted by it, the only reason she agreed to dance with the man was to
save face. Besides she loved dancing and it was very luc*y for her to get a dance partner so
soon. ;ith so few gentlemen present it would be understandable if she were to miss the first set
and the rest of the sets following.
But she was not concerned about that. It was the fact that her sister ydia was currently dancing
with 0r. 3arcy.
Eli2abeth *new all about the first and dinner set rule that ydia had to *eep in accordance with
her attending social events.
But just as she was aware of the rule placed on her sister, she was also aware of ydia's disli*e
of the man.
It was a wonder that she agreed to ta*e a set with him, the girl of fifteen could not even stand
him for five minutes and somehow she managed to last almost half an hour7 though Eli2abeth
would not put it past her youngest sister to tolerate the arrangement if only to indulge in more
>grown up' entertainment.
She supposed that it was also at ydia's advantage that her partner was as handsome as he
was.
"han*fully the colour that rose to her chee*s could be attributed to simple e!ertion.
0eeting 4ane's eye from across the room, and then having her coc* a brow teasingly, however,
made her self)conscious about her thoughts on the man.
Eli2abeth was not one to flatter vanity upon anyone, but 0r. 3arcy was certainly an e!ception.
.
-0r. 3arcy you are quite a fine dancer,. ydia commented in surprise.
She was certain that the despicable gentleman, his stony silence and his disapproving stare
would not be much fun. In fact, ydia was certain of it:
-It would be scandalous otherwise I presume6.
&s she twirled, ydia could see the envious glares of her neighbors and friends and could not
stop the wic*ed smile from gracing her features. -But of course sir, if dancing was not your forte,
conversation would come ne!t and I have a feeling you would be less inclined to that then you
would be to dancing..
-Indeed, conversation is not a favorite of mine..
-5h6 But you are from ondon are you not 0r. 3arcy6 Certainly you have many things to spea*
of6.
-(one of which are e!actly appropriate for an assembly 0iss ydia..
She felt herself pouting. -Is it because I am young sir6.
-5f course not, it is simply improper..
-a:. she scoffed, -Improper conversation is certainly more fun would you not agree6.
-?nfortunately I do not 0iss Bennet..
-;hy not sir6.
-Serious topics are not to dwell in jovial environments,. answered he, -it is not favorable..
-;ell I suppose sir, but would you not tell me what you at least spea* of6 3o you spea* of lace,
or ribbons6.
/is blue eyes flashed briefly in amusement. -(o, I am afraid not 0iss ydia. 8ou can loo* a fool
if you so wish, but if you open your mouth and spea* of things you do not understand then you
shall prove yourself a fool..
-Is that why gentlemen do not spea* of lace6.
-I am afraid so7 a gentleman does not loo* a gentleman if he spea*s of lace that is why we
spea* of hunting and horses..
-/orses,. ydia repeated before a wide smile overcame her, -9eally sir6.
.
&s the dance continued, Eli2abeth saw various seated young ladies pinch their chee*s and bite
their lips before they sat up straighter when 0r. 3arcy happened to loo* their way, and could not
help the laugh that left her lips.
-=ardon 0iss Eli2abeth6. 0r. Bingley suddenly said, whipping his head in her direction after
staring at her sister longer than he intended, a blush on his chee*s from his lac* of manners.
"he young lady smiled. -It is nothing 0r. Bingley, I assure you7 please continue..
Still red from embarrassment, he almost slapped himself in the face. /ow rude could he
possibly be, first he ignores his partner and then he gets caught with his attention elsewhere6
-=ray, forgive me 0iss Eli2abeth ).
-It is nothing sir,. she interjected, -I understand. 0y sister is quite beautiful is she not6.
-If I were to say otherwise, would you not be displeased6.
5h, so he was not simply a love)sic* dog then, Eli2abeth thought with another laugh as she
remembered the conversation 0rs. Bennet had with 0ary#
-0r. Bingley seems li*e a very amiable gentleman..
-Indeed, he has the appearance of it..
-&ppearance,. 0rs. Bennet had cried, -whatever do you spea* of 0ary6.
"he girl shrugged. -/e seems to be too caught in the beauty of my sister to reveal any of his
virtues. &miable though you say he is, I li*en him to the many love)sic* dogs that 4ane must call
suitors..
-8es I suppose you are right,. Eli2abeth assented in the present.
-"hen for that correctly given answer, may I as* for your forgiveness in my inattention as well as
the reason for your laughter earlier6.
-5h my sir, that is but two things to as*: Surely for one answer you would have to answer a
question yourself:.
/e loo*ed thoughtful before grinning. -8es, I believe that is fair..
-I thin* so as well,. Eli2abeth claimed, -you have my forgiveness sir..
-&nd the answer to my last question6.
-0m,. she hummed as they separated again before answering as they reunited, -I see all the
ladies that have not been fortunate as I have to be in possession of a partner preparing
themselves for the ne!t set..
,lancing around as they danced, 0r. Bingley turned to say, -8es, as 3arcy says they are
casting their nets.. /is blush returned as he reali2ed his words too late, but Eli2abeth simply
laughed.
-3oes your friend see a ballroom as a hunting ground6.
-1or a man such as he7 you cannot blame him,. he answered with a hint of defensiveness.
-8es, I can imagine. "hough my brother is not nearly as wealthy as you and 0r. 3arcy, before
he left for Cambridge, almost all the young ladies in 0eryton vied for his attention.. She caught
sight of Ben indulging the ladies unfortunate enough not to have a partner with lively
conversation, giggles abound as her brother smiled charmingly at them. She added with a
smile, -"han*fully he enjoys the attention..
-?nfortunately the same cannot be said for 3arcy,. Bingley said as he too loo*ed in Bennet's
direction. -In fact, 3arcy is *nown to run around the ballrooms trying to escape them. It is a
wonder indeed that 0iss ydia managed to e!tract a set from him..
-Is the feat so great6.
0r. Bingley laughed. -8es, I imagine it is the same as catching sprites. 3arcy will not dance with
anyone if he does not *now them well..
-'"is a pity then,. she said with a laugh, -I imagine there are many young ladies here that would
be than*ful for a partner..
-3o not worry 0iss Eli2abeth7 I am sure 3arcy will be pleased to indulge you.. /ardly *eeping
himself from chuc*ling, he added, -&s Bennet told me, the way to a man's heart is through his
stomach..
.
Chapter eleven
.
"he liveliness of the dance distracted ydia often and her train of thought would completely
leave her with nothing to say. ?ncomfortable with the silence, she grasped for matters of
conversation# -Sir, is it nice to live in ondon6.
-"hat is a matter of opinion 0iss ydia..
-;ell then, I as* for yours..
-I do not prefer it to my home in 3erbyshire..
-But do you not find ondon more diverting with their stores and dresses6.
-(ow 0iss ydia, have I not already told you that I *now nothing of lace or ribbons6.
She pouted slightly, but blushed more for the remar*. -8ou almost sounded li*e my sister i22y.
She reminds me of the same whenever I spea* of ondon..
/e was silent to this, but than*fully she had more to say# -i22y does not favor ondon either,
she will only contend to go if she is visiting my &unt and ?ncle ,ardiner. She says the society in
ondon is vicious and vapid, and she finds no enjoyment in the company of people who loo*
down on others simply for how they maintain their economies. 0y ?ncle ,ardiner is in trade you
see, and though he has a good standard of living, most of the society in ondon shuns him..
"here was a slight wince in his visage. -It is regrettable..
-8es, but ?ncle ,ardiner does not let it bother him for he has a good life and he and his wife
have traveled more than most people. /e has been to India and he has even gone to the
&mericas.. "he pair parted and then reunited. ydia brightened again. -/ave you been to the
&mericas 0r. 3arcy6.
-I have not been fortunate enough..
-5h, well that is too bad+.
&nother silence.
-?ncle ,ardiner has told us about India, we have not been to ondon lately so he has not been
able to describe the &mericas yet so my sisters and I do not *now what it is li*e. 0y sister Aitty
draws sir, and with our uncle's descriptions she draws the places he has been. It is li*e we have
been there too when we see her pictures..
-"hat is quite impressive 0iss ydia. /ave you and your sisters ta*en 0asters6.
-(o sir, we have not..
"he many times her wish had been granted to visit her uncle in ondon had been quite
upsetting for the young girl. &t first she did not understand why people would loo* down on her
even though she was in her best finery, but Eli2abeth and 4ane e!plained on her return that
ondon society could be a cruel place especially if you had little fortune.
0r. 3arcy saw the tensing of her shoulders and cleared his throat. -I only as* 0iss ydia for it
seems your sisters are rather accomplished. 3id you not say that your sister 0ary was e!cellent
on the pianoforte and that your sister Catherine is an e!cellent artist6 Surely you have had
instruction of sorts6.
4ust as quic*ly, her mood lightened again. -(o sir, we read. 5ur papa *nows many basics, but
that is as far as his teaching goes..
-&nd you have taught yourselves6.
-8es sir, my sisters enjoy the challenge, I however do not,. she said the last part quietly as if she
were ashamed of it.
-3oes nothing hold your interest 0iss ydia6.
-I do not suppose so+nothing but my horse..
/er sudden melancholy was disheartening to 3arcy who was feeling quite proud of himself for
maintaining conversation with a stranger. /e tried once more to ease her, -8ou are young 0iss
ydia, you will find something worth your time eventually fear not. &nd being a young, well)
informed horsewoman is certainly an accomplishment, one that I at least, thin* highly of..
She smiled. -I than* you 0r. 3arcy. 8ou are very *ind..
.
-But of course he would favor my ydia7 she is a lovely girl indeed:.
-3id you not say 0rs. Bennet, that he favored 4ane6.
-;ell gentlemen are allowed to change their minds are they not6.
-8es I suppose they are,. ady ucas said thoughtfully before another dancing pair caught her
eye. -5h: It seems your i22y has also entrapped our new neighbor. 1ive thousand a year is
very manageable do you not thin*6.
-(othing to 0r. 3arcy's to be sure, but very comfortable,. 0rs. ong agreed.
-I would not be too hopeful7 i22y is a rather pic*y child. If she were to approve of a gentleman,
he would li*ely find her too spirited for a wife..
-/er brother and father are rather fond of that trait, and I daresay the other gentlemen do not
find her any less appealing despite having grown up with her wild ways..
-8es, but my friend you must understand. "he other gentlemen here are country gentlemen7
gentlemen li*e 0r. Stewart, 0r. 3arcy and 0r. Bingley are ones of fashion. "hey must thin* of
their position in life. 0arrying a country maiden is enough of a problem in their high circles, but
marrying one that is li*e i22y will prove too much of a trial for any man to bear. ;hy, I fear that
i22y shall be a spinster if she does not reign herself in more li*e her other sisters:.
-Certainly 4ane does not have such a problem for she and 0r. Stewart loo* so well together..
-& match made in /eaven I should say,. 0rs. ,oulding declared with an approving nod. -;hen
are we to wish them joy6.
-Soon, we hope..
-/e has been here for quite a time and he has not declared himself yet, that is most irregular..
-Especially for such a jewel as your daughter 0rs. Bennet, why, with the length of your
acquaintance and his obvious preference to 4ane, it is a wonder they are not yet engaged:.
ady ucas added.
-But they are courting:.
-&s I understand, he has not as*ed permission from your husband,. 0rs. ,oulding reminded
reluctantly.
"he first set concluded, Aitty and 0ary wal*ed past the table of conversing mothers. -;ell if 0r.
Stewart should as* for her hand, I have no doubt in my mind that 0r. Bennet would agree:.
3espite the utmost confidence in her husband's good sense in the union between 0r. Stewart
and 4ane, the loo* on her younger daughters' faces thoroughly disputed it.
.
-Insupportable girl,. 0ary mumbled under her breath as she too* the empty seat beside her
brother at their family's table where ydia and Eli2abeth were gathered.
-Someone loo*s li*e she is enjoying herself,. Ben claimed with raised brows.
-;hatever is the matter 0ary6.
She mumbled again.
-5h for goodness' sa*e, did that horrible 0iss 4enson say something again6. ydia demanded,
already ma*ing a move to stand followed closely by her brother who loo*ed just as irritated.
0iss 4enson, a young lady of the same age as 0ary, was a girl the Bennet children had grown
up with. She was as sweet as any child her age was, but upon her return from boarding school
0iss Emily 4enson became a -high horsed chit. as ydia li*ed to say.
0iss 4enson lorded over the neighborhood ladies that her chances of marriage were much
higher because of her substantial inheritance $upon her grandfather's death% and she sniffed at
the >country accomplishments' of her childhood friends. /er favorite target was 0ary, the only
person to have bested her on the instrument despite not having anywhere near the same
education.
-(ow just a moment,. Eli2abeth interjected, -"ell us what happened, 0ary..
-She is being horrible that is all..
-But you are normally not this upset with her, what did that heathen do6.
-ydia,. Eli2abeth began warningly to which the girl rolled her eyes and gestured at 0ary to
spea*, but she had nothing to say.
"heir brother huffed. -If you will not tell us, I shall ma*e her tell me then..
-;ell then, you must withhold your anger until this set is complete, she is dancing,. ydia said,
gesturing at the crowd where, beside 0iss Bingley stood 0iss 4enson.
-;ho has as*ed her6.
-0r. &brams..
0ary sniffed, and her siblings turned to loo* at her slowly.
"hough 0ary did not flatter herself with the fantasy of marriage often, she li*ed to thin* she had
as much a chance as the rest of her sisters.
She *new her disadvantages lay in her somber air and her plain loo*s, and so she had planned
rather masterfully to appear at her best for this assembly. Simply requesting the help of ydia in
preparation had her loo*ing well $as those who noticed bothered to comment% and agreeing to
stand with Aitty also proved to dispel some of her serious nature.
"hese subtle changes, she had hoped, would get her the attention of someone that night
whether it was just someone who as*ed her to dance or to have someone to ta*e a romantic
interest in her, she could not say, but she had hoped it would be her favorite 0r. &brams, the
boo*shop owner's son.
4ust that night he had requested a set. But just as he was e!pected to collect her for their
dance, she saw him on the floor with someone else. By all appearance, it seemed he had
completely forgotten about her.
"hough she li*ed to thin* that she was good at hiding it, her brother and sisters *new all too
well# her self)confidence was fragile.
-5h 0ary+.
-3earest, I am so sorry..
-"hat girl, honestly,. Stooping down to give her sister a fierce hug, ydia claimed, -"he last ball
you had to save 4ane from 0r. Stewart, and now at this one we must deal with that hoyden. 8ou
were wrong in saying assemblies were a bore 0ary, I find that they are rather diverting if you
*now what you are doing..
Ben suddenly loo*ed cheerful. -I smell a plan coming along..
-5nly if you promise to help..
-I have a feeling I should be doing something to stop this,. Eli2abeth said with a groan.
-&nd will you6.
-5nly if you ma*e sure that this plan of yours will not implicate any of us..
-8ou have taught us well i22y, I daresay getting caught is the last thing we need to worry
about..
.
3arcy was feeling quite accomplished.
/e had danced three sets which was a record for him in such un*nown territory. /owever, the
last two dances were mandatory since his partners were Bingely's sisters, but still, he
accomplished the tas* with less strain than he normally would have.
"here was a chance that his earlier set with 0iss ydia had ta!ed him enough that he was
simply too tired to hear any of the usual nonsense the ladies of (etherfield sprouted whenever
in his company.
0iss ydia's e!uberance was not a surprise considering her age, but he was not used to being
so e!posed to such liveliness, especially since ,eorgiana, being only a year older7 was never
so buoyant.
;atching the youngest Bennet converse animatedly with her three sisters, 0iss Catherine7 0iss
0ary and 0iss Eli2abeth, and seeing the e!pression of pure, innocent happiness upon her face
made 3arcy wonder if ,eorgiana would ever be blessed with such carefree abandon.
It would come eventually, he remembered 0iss Eli2abeth writing to him, it shall take time and
patience and a lot of unconditional love, but your sister will find happiness so long as she is
allowed to make her choices and know that no matter what, you support her.
"he advice certainly did wonders for 0iss Eli2abeth's own disposition for everyone within the
assembly greeted her with a sense of familiarity that was not only one of mutual respect but also
of genuine approval.
She did not seem desperate to be removed from the marriage mart unli*e some people+
1rom the corner of his peripheral vision, the eyes of the ladies of 0eryton watched him li*e a
wounded deer.
"han*fully his severe mien and the dar*ness of his chosen hiding place *ept anyone from trying
their luc*.
&s usual, Bennet neither noticed nor cared for his obvious desire to be left alone.
-I see even in the most bac*water of counties you still feel the need to play hide)and)go)see* in
the ballrooms,. he said, -& rather juvenile past time, do you not agree6.
-8ou would do the same if you were being constantly pursued..
-=erhaps, but who is to say I would not enjoy the attention6.
-I am starting to thin* you li*e fooling with the affections of young ladies..
-(ot a chance,. Bennet replied with a grin, -if my mother ever gets wind of any imaginary
favorites of mine, I shall never hear the end of it.. "he young man made a face as he mimic*ed
in a high voice, ->& new 0rs. Bennet6 ;hy Benjamin how could you6 8ou saved our family from
the hedgerows only to cast us aside for the first pretty thing to catch your eye: 1or shame
Benjamin Bennet, for shame:'.
3arcy chuc*led. -8ou cannot fault your mother for esteeming you so much..
-(o, I can only suffer for years to come..
Standing side by side observing the assembly room, a comfortable silence settled between
them.
?nli*e Bingley where he always found one thing or other to say, Bennet did not bother with such
tas*s and simply enjoyed the silences as they came. 3arcy appreciated that of the younger
gentleman though it proved to have its downsides.
;hen Bennet chose to be silent it was normally due to the thoughts that occupied him, and
when Bennet thought deeply it was certainly a problem.
-8ou are beginning to worry me Bennet..
-Is that so6.
-8ou are thin*ing,. he pointed out, -that is never a good thing..
-(ow I am offended:.
-5ffended, you6 "he thought is preposterous..
-/ow you wound me 3arce,. Bennet claimed with a laugh. -I admit I am indeed thin*ing..
-&nd it worries me greatly..
-Come now, my thoughts are not so wic*ed..
-8our schemes are much worse than any the society mamas can concoct. I have the right to
believe the worst..
-<ery well, I concede to my genius over that of the society mothers, but in their defense, I have
had a university education, five sisters, a nervous mama and a father who finds amusement in
too many things..
-"hen shall I plan my escape or am I e!pected to pretend I *now nothing of the havoc you
intend to cause6.
-;hat I require of you sir, is a set with one of my sisters..
-I beg your pardon6.
.
"he supper bell rang and the attendance of the assembly abandoned the ballroom for the
supper room. /aving sat together for the supper set, the four out of the five Bennet girls sat
together again at the table with their brother and 0r. 3arcy joining them.
"he people of 0eryton praised Sir ;illiam's ability to host such an e!cellent gathering.
/owever, not everyone felt the same.
0iss Bingley had much to say about how the assembly was conducted. "hose sitting near her
agreed almost immediately that though she was fashionable, she was not *ind. 0rs. /urst was
not helping herself either.
0r. /urst had no complaints and as he was seen as a well)mannered man of few words, he had
already found a companion in 0r. Bennet despite 0rs. Bennet's supposedly soft spo*en
disapproval, -/e loo*s to be in his cups 0r. Bennet, you cannot be serious..
-4ust because he is demure does not mean he is in his cups..
-But he loo*s terribly disagreeable..
-8es, well so does that 3arcy fellow, just as* your daughters..
-But he has nothing to recommend him:.
-5f course he does, if he can remain perfectly at ease with you calling him a drun*ard, I may
learn something from him..
0ary muttered, -It is a pity our mother has no idea of the importance of an indoor voice..
-(o, I daresay she is much too used to shouting since she has had children,. Aitty said, -papa
told me once that mama was a quiet woman before 4ane was born..
-I am surprised he did not say i22y,. ydia commented.
-4ane may loo* perfectly calm and composed, but she was just as much a terror as I am now..
-I find that hard to believe,. 0r. 3arcy declared.
-I must agree, I cannot picture it..
-9ather hard is it6. 0iss Eli2abeth as*ed with a chuc*le, -;ell, I certainly did not learn on my
own how to agitate 0ama's nerves so thoroughly..
Bennet spo*e, -(o matter how well 4ane has taught you, she certainly cannot best you now..
-5f course not,. she said with a win*, -practice ma*es perfect after all..
-8es, and you have had much time to practice,. her brother claimed with a dramatic roll of his
eyes before he turned to 3arcy. -"hin* of any childhood misadventure you could possibly have
3arce, my sister would have at least e!perienced it once..
-;ell I *now of the attempt to brea* in a stallion,. said he watching the young woman who sat
beside him.
-& poor show of judgment on my part..
-/ave you climbed the highest tree in your estate6.
-I have,. 0iss Eli2abeth answered with a nod of moc* seriousness. -Aitty now lives in it..
-&nd saved a chic*en from becoming supper6.
-0argaret used to live in my closet before mama found her..
-/ave you gotten lost on your own grounds6.
-5f course, you can only find your way if you get lost..
-&ttempted to ta*e a dip at midnight6.
-I have the scar from a sharp roc* to prove it..
/e found himself loo*ing thoughtful. Certainly this young lady was fearless, what could he have
possibly done in the past to best her6
-/idden away from your mama6.
She snorted. -Every day..
-Caught someone in a trap you made6.
-5h my, I have not tried that yet,. 0iss Eli2abeth admitted with a laugh. -/ave you sir6.
3arcy gave a wan smile. -0y aunt was not pleased as I recall.. /e was startled then as the
group that surrounded him burst out laughing.
-3id you really 0r. 3arcy6. 0iss ydia as*ed, her face bright red from her peals of laughter.
-3o you thin* you can ma*e one so we may catch a sprite6. 0iss Catherine requested too.
-I shall teach you how to ma*e one and hide it, but only if the sprites do not mind,. he answered
with his usual somber tone.
Beside him, 0iss Eli2abeth snorted again and said lowly for him to hear, -I have no mind to
dangle upside down from a tree. I warn you 0r. 3arcy, if I land up in such a position, you shall
have an angry young lady to deal with..
1or the most part, the rest of supper went about as well as Sir ;illiam could have wanted it until
the last course was to be served where 0iss 4enson declared loudly, -1rogs are a delicacy in
1rance, and though we are at war with (apoleon it is very fashionable in the circles I come
from.. oo*ing around the table where all eyes were on her, she continued with a notched chin.
-I hope you do not mind this irregularity, but it seems the coo* too* much longer preparing the
frogs than what I am used to..
"he servants entered the supper room with bowls of the portion, but as they were about to serve
it, the frogs leapt.
,asps were heard throughout the room as chairs toppled over.
0iss Catherine declared, -It seems the coo* did not coo* them for very long, they are still
jumping:.
-I have no mind to eat this,. 0iss ydia joined, -let us away to the ballroom, I much prefer to
dance:.
1amiliar sentiments were uttered by the rest of the attending, before 0iss 4enson said, -(o, no,
it is nothing I assure you, everything is completely under control:. /er composure died away as
one of the frogs jumped atop her head and another into the rather daring nec*line of her dress.
&s more frogs continued to jump onto the heads of the people in attendance, Bennet declared,
-"o the ballroom, we shall have none of this tonight.. /e stood, and offering his arm to 0iss
0ary, they both left the supper room.
&h, so this is what he was about, 3arcy thought to himself as he stood as well.
;ith an offered arm to 0iss Eli2abeth, and her younger sisters wal*ing behind them as they
e!ited the frog infested supper room, he as*ed, -/ave you been playing with frogs lately 0iss
Eli2abeth6.
-5f course not sir,. she answered with an arch smile. -;hy do you as*6.
.
"he ne!t set began only a few moments later as various mothers proclaimed their indignation.
"heir complaints about the slime upon their dresses and in their hair continued into the ballroom
where the main focus was now to moan about their ruined dinner. "han*fully without the
watchful eyes of the elder community and the amusement from the younger generation, the last
set was announced and everyone happily partoo*.
Eli2abeth and he traded a curtsey for a bow as the music started in earnest.
"he first steps to the dance were completed in relative silence before she chose to spea*,
-Come now sir, has the frogs shoc*ed you thusly6.
-(o 0iss Eli2abeth,. said he, -I have done much worse..
"he gentleman's severe bearing and his almost constant state of emotionless led her to the
conclusion that though he had a superior handsomeness to him, there was no chance that he
could match her mischievousness. -5h, is that a challenge sir6.
ord help him if she continues to loo* at him li*e that.
-8ou choose to see it as a challenge, I see it as fact..
She hummed thoughtfully as they separated and once they returned to each other, Eli2abeth
as*ed, -/ave you climbed a boo*shelf6.
-0y house*eeper was terrified of allowing me into the library..
-/idden under the *itchen table when there was an important guest6.
-& waste of time,. he answered, -it is a bore when you are a child..
-Snuc* a dog into your room6.
-"he maids were horrified..
-&ccidently set a curtain on fire6.
-It certainly upset my sister..
-&nd did none of these things upset you6. Eli2abeth as*ed as the part of the dance dictated that
she dance around him.
-(ot particularly,. he answered ignoring the rose water that drifted around him with her
movements, -especially if you have someone else to blame..
Eli2abeth laughed. -&nd who is this unfortunate person6.
-0y cousin 9ichard, though he may bear the brunt of the punishment, he still gave me a sound
thrashing later..
-It seems 0r. 3arcy that you are as just as bad as I, though I thin* I have got the better of you,.
she declared, wondering if the loud thumping of her heart could be heard by him.
-&nd why is that 0iss Eli2abeth6.
She smiled at her own reflection through his blue eyes as she answered, -I do not get caught by
anyone..
.
3arcy stared down at the parchment before him, trying to thin* of something to write to his
sister. ;ith a sigh, he lowered his pen and rubbed his eyes.
Squinting at the cloc* on the far side of the wall, he found that it did not matter. It was late.
9unning a hand through his hair, he loo*ed down on the words#
&ight and pleasing figure, scented with rose water, arch smile and fine eyes. Inwardly he
scoffed. "hat was hardly a thing for him to say of his sister's friend, not to mention it was wholly
lac*ing any of the necessary information to draw her based simply on description.
;ith a groan, he crumpled the parchment up, threw it into the dying embers of the fireplace and
began afresh with the opening line#
I find that words are lacking and as such I think I must draw her myself.
.
-;ell i22y, it seems you have had a very successful assembly,. 4ane noted as her siblings
congregated on the shared bed of their eldest.
-8es, with two of the most desirable gentlemen in the county,. ydia added, -/ow luc*y for you..
-"he opening set with 0r. Bingley and the closing set with 0r. 3arcy, a successful night
indeed..
Ben chuc*led. -Come now 0ary, though you did not get to dance with that bore 0r. &brams, at
least you had fun6.
-It was certainly interesting..
-It is a pity that he turned out to be so unreliable, we *now how much you li*ed him,. 4ane said
hugging 0ary's other side as her sister e!haled.
-It is of no consequence, I should not have been so hopeful..
-8ou have every right to be disappointed. /is lac* of manners and her >better breeding' have
ruined an otherwise perfect night for you. I would have thought of much worse than unleashing
the frogs upon them both if I had not remembered that papa was in attendance..
-Surprising that he did not decide to punish you for the act regardless,. Ben said. -/as father
loosened his punishment now that you are older6.
-(o, he simply finds smarter ways for ma*ing us suffer,. ydia said with a nod from Aitty who
added, -/e grew annoyed with me disappearing into the trees whenever he or mama needed
me so he made me wear a bell for a month so that I could not hide from either of them..
-8es, but I thin* papa was not able to reprimand us because mama was so e!cited about the
prospects of the night+well other than supper of course,. 0ary said, -in her eyes, 4ane is
almost married and now i22y is spoilt for choice between the two gentlemen from (etherfield..
-Indeed,. Ben agreed with a mischievous grin at his older sister. -So tell us dear i22y, who do
you prefer6.
-(ow that is hardly a thing to as* of me, can I not have both6. she responded causing her
sisters to giggle. -5h but certainly not,. Eli2abeth continued, -for 4ane is much too entrapped by
0r. Bingley and I should never thin* of ruining her happiness thusly.. 0ary, Ben and ydia
jo*ingly po*ed their eldest sister as they wiggled their brows suggestively.
-So you choose 0r. 3arcy than i22y6. Aitty as*ed.
-(o, I would not wish to have him chained to one such as myself..
-&nd why not,. ydia as*ed, -you seem to suit very well. Even though I admit to not disli*ing him
as much as I used to, I thin* he could use your liveliness..
-/ere, here:.
-(ow really, what am I to do with a rich, handsome gentleman such as himself6.
-;hy is it not obvious6. 4ane began, -0arry him of course:.
.
Chapter twelve
.
-i22y, my dear, you had a rather wonderful time at the assembly did you not6. 0rs. Bennet
as*ed loudly from her place in the middle of the drawing room of ucas odge.
-8es, it was a rather interesting evening, the frogs were utterly dreadful..
-(ow come, you must not trifle with us. Spea*, spea*, you must tell us of the two gentlemen
that have so wholly gotten your attention:. her mother insisted.
-8es i22y,. ady ucas chimed, -though we have many topics to spea* of, this surely has the
most attention. 5ur new neighbors are ones of deep interest in the neighborhood and we *now
so little about them:.
-;ill you not as* Ben6.
&t the confused loo* of their hostess and her daughter, 0rs. Bennet elaborated, -0y Benny has
met their acquaintance in ondon. /e failed to mention it to me as I have failed to mention it to
you which I at least had the decency to apologi2e for.. /er mother sniffed. -0y son is constantly
teasing me and I would not have believed him if it were not for the gentlemen's appearance to
our home on their arrival..
-5h my friend, you have failed to mention this as well:.
-3o not fear7 there was little I could have told you. I was not present for their visit..
&cross from her, ydia smiled innocently.
-'"is a shame, but one must focus on the present. i22y please, tell us of the gentlemen:.
She sighed dramatically. -(ow I hardly thin* that is necessary considering you have all seen us
dance..
-But what was your opinion of them i22y,. 0aria as*ed earnestly. -"hey both intimidate me so,
but they were both very handsome:.
-But they were not as jolly as the officers..
-&s I remember ydia, you started the night off rather marvelously as well. "he first set with 0r.
3arcy, why you must have been e!cited,. ady ucas said, almost desperate for any word on
their new neighbors.
-8es, it is a wonder your father allowed it. 0r. 3arcy must have been very *een on you if he was
willing to go through your headstrong papa:.
-I would agree, but he is rather too serious for my li*ing..
-But with ten thousand a year ).
-/ardly an enticement,. 0ary interjected, her tone bored. -If ydia does not li*e something, she
does not li*e something. ;e should be than*ful that she no longer sees 0r. 3arcy as a prideful
idiot li*e she once did..
"he flush of embarrassment from the youngest Bennet child was prominent as she hissed at her
sister, -"hat was because I did not *now him..
-;as not 0r. 3arcy so very handsome6. 0aria interrupted the start of a possible argument with
a dreamy sigh. -/e was so very tall, and he loo*ed ever so regal. ;hy, in all my fourteen years,
I have never seen a man so stri*ing. "he =rince 9egent would not nearly appear so well:.
-8es, and if it were not for his constant pacing throughout the ballroom as he maintained the
e!pression of a ord in =arliament, he would have remained as handsome..
0aria winced. -I grant you, he did loo* severe..
-<ery displeased more li*e it,. 0ary said flatly.
-3o not tal* nonsense,. ydia argued, -just because he loo*s as bored as you do, does not
mean he is unpleasant..
Aitty, who had been watching a pair of butterflies dance outside the window, turned at the
slightly raised voice of her young sister. "urning to see the e!pression of Eli2abeth, she moved
quic*ly to the place in between her two soon)to)be squabbling siblings.
-I find that he is rather reserved. /e did not spea* to anyone without the presence of his
friends..
-8es, see,. ydia declared, leaning over Aitty to give 0ary a loo*, -merely shy..
-(ow shy,. Eli2abeth said with a laugh, -that does not suit a gentleman such as himself. ;hy
with such a serious bearing, shy would be the last thing anyone would thin* him to be..
-"hen what is the cause of his silence6. ady ucas as*ed eagerly.
-0any ladies were disappointed about the lac* of introduction,. 0rs. Bennet agreed, though she
gleefully added, -but perhaps that is because he was content with the company he has already
met..
-"his is hardly a conversation we can have. (one of us can spea* for him..
-8es, but you miss the point of this i22y. 5h honestly, must we beg and plead on bended
*nees and offer onto you diamond rings and golden apples6 ;hat will it ta*e for you to spea* of
these gentlemen6.
-(o, no. 9ings are too easily lost and apples of gold, 5beron would simply eat them: But I see
you are frustrated with me already. ;ould you really care for my impression of them6.
-8es:. /er mama, ady ucas and 0aria e!claimed.
-<ery well,. answered she, -I shall say what I see of them, but I beg you not to ta*e my words
too heavily to heart. "his is one person's opinion and as such I have no mind to ruin or build a
reputation for them on their behalf.. oo*ing seriously towards the three eager ladies before her,
Eli2abeth began, -5f 0r. 3arcy, I can say little, for though he spea*s to me, he does not spea*
often..
-But there must be something more to say of him:.
Eli2abeth considered her mother for a moment before replying, -/e really is quite tall..
Aitty giggled. -;e all noticed i22y..
-I only wanted to assure you that he is as tall as he loo*s..
-&nd what of 0r. Bingley6. ady ucas as*ed.
-/e is very amiable, jovial and a more approachable man than his friend..
-3id you not dance with him first6 ;hy, he must have thought you to be as amiable and jovial,
and beautiful too,. 0aria said eagerly, though she was shushed by her mother.
-I hardly thin* that is the case,. Eli2abeth replied, -we did not spea* before our set, and with
4ane's beauty at my side+well, I shall not lie to myself to increase my vanity..
-5h yes, did not your 4ane dance two sets with 0r. Bingley, 0rs. Bennet6.
-8es, but he is certainly not good enough for my 4ane. 5nly five thousand to 0r. Stewart's eight:
;hy would I allow such a thing6 0y 4ane deserves much better..
-Is he as amiable as our other neighbors have said of him6.
-Indeed. /e has also a quic* mind to him as well, and I daresay a sense of humor to complete
him. I did not e!pect anything less7 our brother would not be friends with him otherwise..
-"here can be no denying that 0r. Bingley was certainly well received by the community..
-8es, but his sisters left much to be desired,. 0ary observed.
-/ideous things they were..
-But they were so very fashionable:. 0aria e!claimed.
-"hey may dress however they li*e, but their behavior cannot mas* it..
-(ow I hardly thin* spea*ing ill of our neighbors is very Christian)li*e,. 0rs. Bennet declared. -I
saw none of you indulging them in conversation..
-I tried to spea* to them, but they did not care to hear me,. Aitty said though she did not sound
overly disappointed by her failed attempt.
-;ell 4ane succeeded just fine. In fact, they were in a rather deep conversation before the last
set..
-8es it seems she has entrapped the Bingleys quite nicely, and our brother must approve or he
would have challenged his friend to a duel by now,. Eli2abeth said, her confidence in the words
caused her mother to sniff.
-&s you have brought up Ben, if I may as*# ;here is he, I would have thought he would have
called upon us as well6.
"he Bennets *new that their all)lady arrival to ucas odge had disappointed her. 3espite Ben's
rich friends, he was still considered a favorable catch for the eligible county ladies, and ady
ucas did have an unmarried daughter.
-I am afraid that he chose to replace the footman in accompanying 4ane to visit tenants before
he surveyed the land from the storm two wee*s past..
-Could 4ane and he not have done so at a later time6.
-&fraid not..
If there was one thing their mother disli*ed, it was the thought of a new 0rs. Bennet.
.
Charles too* his duties as a son seriously.
5n his father's deathbed, the young man of nineteen promised his father that he would do what
his elder could not# "o shed the ties of trade was the goal in its entirety, though he was very near
to completing his father's wish, the idea terrified him.
;hat did he *now about being an estate owner6 Even with 3arcy's assistance, the many
responsibilities now bestowed upon him were overwhelming.
-I than* you for the opportunity of seeing your estate 0r. Bennet,. said he as he tried to focus on
the teachings of the older gentleman. &ny help was invaluable, and certainly with the success of
his friend's father, whatever 0r. Bennet had to say would be useful.
-It is of no import 0r. Bingley7 I apologi2e if I was interrupting you from organi2ing your house..
-/ardly the case sir. 0y sister is in charge of running my household. She manages my
townhouse in ondon, I am sure she will relish the challenge of organi2ing my new home..
-;ell then I hope your sister enjoys the opportunity to parta*e in wor* befitting a mistress of an
estate..
-Such as what sir6.
0r. Bennet chuc*led. -Come now 0r. Bingley, being mistress of an estate is far different than
being a mistress of a house.. "he loo* had yet to pass on 0r. Bingely's face so the older
gentleman elaborated with thinly veiled amusement, -Seeing to the care of tenants is one of
them, having the mistress of an estate parta*e in charity or simply visiting the tenants can be
very uplifting and boasts morale..
-5h+I see, and what sort of charity are mistresses of estates e!pected to ta*e up6. Charles
as*ed curiously.
/aving visited =emberley often enough, Charles could not recall any activities the mistress of
the house was e!pected to do.
&ccording to Caroline, all the lady of the house did was redecorate rooms, design menus and
host parties. "hough Charles did note that 3arcy was unmarried and ,eorgiana was hardly
prepared to ta*e up the role.
-(othing overly e!cessive7 ta*ing clothes and blan*ets in the winter is always appreciated, as is
ta*ing food and clean water during dry seasons, and no one will ever loo* to you un*indly if you
manage to get supplies for tenants who have been injured or suffer from disease,. 0r. Bennet
claimed, -0rs. Bennet finds solace in such tas*s as does her daughters..
-I see,. Charles said, -3o all of your daughters parta*e in this activity6.
-8es of course, my i22y is constantly in the loop of the goings on of the tenants, Aitty is very
much favored by the children, rec*less girl as she is and 4ane is seen as a blessing amongst
everyone, I doubt any tenant is ever left feeling wanting when she is around..
-5h, the oldest 0iss Bennet is it not6. he as*ed, attempting nonchalance. -3oes she visit
often6.
-Buite often,. 0r. Bennet answered a twin*le in his eye which caused Charles to blush slightly,
though he hoped that the e!ertion from their wal* could be blamed. -She li*es to be of
assistance to the community and if that involves a few bas*ets of food and a few coaches of
supplies so be it..
&s they wal*ed, Charles attempted to avoid and yet at the same time bring up the topic of 0iss
Bennet. /e *new that she was a beautiful girl.
"han*fully there were many questions to as* of 0r. Bennet# everything from the repairing of
fences, damages done to tenants homes due to storms, recommended procedures for floods or
fires and when necessary, a quic* lesson in animal husbandry.
-0en are never e!pected to be present during the birth of their own children7 however, there are
absolutely no rules against assisting with the birth of any animal. Cows, I thin*, are the worst.
But generally birth is not as beautiful as they tell you it is..
Charles was completely engrossed in this lesson, however, he choose to loo* the wrong way at
the wrong time.
/is angel stood at the doorway of one of the neat cottages that lined the lane.
0iss Bennet was greeting a tenant with a generous bas*et of food.
"he tenant, who loo*ed very pregnant even at the distance, *issed 4ane's hand in than*s and
even though she attempted to ta*e the offered gift, 0iss Bennet shoo* her head and crossed
the threshold, willing to carry the heavy bas*et inside for the pregnant woman.
(oticing the lac* of attention to his truly diverting instruction $he was just about to e!plain the
wonders of crop rotation%, 0r. Bennet turned towards the direction as well.
Both gentlemen stood watching the door of the tenant's home until it opened again and 0iss
Bennet e!ited. She received a hug from the tenant's child and another grateful *iss on the hand
from the tenant herself before 0iss Bennet bid them goodbye and the door was shut.
&s 0iss Bennet turned, she spotted them standing in the lane. -,ood day papa, good day 0r.
Bingley..
-,ood day 0iss Bennet,. he answered bac* rather hoarsely, feeling his mouth dry up.
She was an angel in the atmosphere of her home and that of the assembly, but there was
something ever so enchanting about her lac* of composure. /er fla!en loc*s were mussed, her
lovely pale chee*s rosy from her labor, her eyes bright from e!ertion and her smile, already
beautiful, was brightened by her sense of accomplishment.
If that was what an estate owner's wife loo*ed li*e after parta*ing in her duties, Charles was
starting to li*e the idea more.
-;here is your brother 4ane6.
-/e told me that he was to chec* the repairs on the fences on the far end of the estate,. she
answered before e!changing a curtsey with them both.
-Is that so6.
She nodded, and pointed past them, -"here he is..
&s Bennet rode towards them, 0iss Bennet said, -Ben only wished to ensure that the repairs to
the fences were being done satisfactory and as 0rs. Bruin was the last tenant I planned to visit,
I assured him it would be no problem for him to go..
-,ood day father, Bingley,. Bennet greeted, coming to a stop beside them.
Charles returned the greeting, but 0r. Bennet only ordered his son off his horse.
-3o you not believe in greeting sir, before you order people about6. &s both boots touched the
dirt, the elder 0r. Bennet raised a hand and *noc*ed his open palm on the bac* of his son's
head.
Charles blin*ed in surprise, but 0iss Bennet only sighed and shoo* her head as her brother
moaned his indignation.
1rom Bennet's reaction, Charles *new that the stri*e was not intended to hurt, however, he was
still confused even as 0r. Bennet scolded his son, -;hat have I told you, do not leave your
sisters unattended, are you trying to give me gray hairs6.
Behind Bennet, 5beron appeared to be snic*ering.
.
5ccasional calls between (etherfield and ongbourn mar*ed the ne!t few days, and though this
activity was not as interesting to ydia, Aitty and 0ary, it brought 4ane much joy and was a form
of both amusement and annoyance to Eli2abeth.
"he calls were made between the two ladies of (etherfield, and though it was not in the way
that 0rs. Bennet would have li*ed, any possible interactions with the gentlemen of (etherfield
were encouragement enough.
/owever, in order to display her two daughters as best as she could, the >distractions' had to be
ta*en away.
ydia was persuaded to ride often as the (etherfield ladies and the youngest Bennet's mutual
disli*e for each other gave way on the first call to (etherfield#
-/orsebac*)riding is not a very ladyli*e amusement, it is easy for all and as it is, not all ladies
have the grace to cut a fine figure upon a horse,. 0iss Bingley had said with her upturned nose
and the plume in her hair flopping with each movement.
-=erhaps you need only remove the pheasant feather from your head7 it seems to weigh an
awful lot..
Aitty was practically rewarded for not spea*ing as 0rs. Bennet procured boo*s on sprites to
*eep her whimsical daughter occupied.
0ary was similarly distracted by essays on 1ordyce which she too* to writing out of pure
enjoyment whenever her instrument could not be reached $the drawing room was suspiciously
loc*ed in the morning of the visits and so she would retire to the library instead%.
/owever, ridding Eli2abeth was not an option as the (etherfield ladies insisted that both the
eldest daughters' presence was required for their enjoyment or they would ris* >being so very
angry with one another due to e!tended periods of boredom'.
"hough Eli2abeth found amusement in 0rs. /urst harmless parading of a good match and the
security of her marriage to a rich gentleman, it was 0iss Bingley that brought more harm than
good to her temperament.
5n more than one occasion, she would be so irritated with the visit upon their departure or her
and her sister's return home, that she would disappear into the wood for hours and not return
until she was certain her foul mood would not endanger anyone. 0rs. Bennet was annoyed as
well by the lac* of information her daughters gave about the visit and more so about Eli2abeth's
constant disappearances.
0rs. Bennet warned her second eldest that should she leave once more without so much as a
>hello' to her mama, 0rs. Bennet would force her to wear the bell that Aitty wore whenever she
was punished.
"wo wee*s after (etherfield was let, Eli2abeth was trying painfully hard not to move her hand
where the bell was attached to her wrist by a ribbon.
-;hy my dear Eli2a, is something the matter, you are being awfully quiet,. 0iss Bingley as*ed.
-Is not the tea to your li*ing6. 0rs. /urst joined, eyeing the teacup before she loo*ed towards
the drawing room doors where a servant had entered with a bow.
Before the servant could spea*, 0iss Bingley too* a deliberate sip of her tea and said, -I
understand your hesitation in drin*ing such a refined beverage, it is not for everyone..
-It is nothing li*e that,. 4ane choose to spea*, unintentionally interrupting the servant from
delivering his message again, -our uncle's trade is partially in the importation of tea as well as
spices. /e has been *ind enough to send us some when he can.. "a*ing a glance at her sister,
she supplied, -i22y, I thin*, is simply not well..
-5h, then you must have some lemon with your tea. It is good for things li*e that..
-&ppreciated, but unnecessary. =lease, you were spea*ing of the ondon fashion6.
Before the discourse could continue, the drawing room door opened once more, and 0r. 3arcy
was admitted.
Even though 0iss Bingley was very focused on the gentleman before her, she could vaguely
hear a slight chime to her right where 0iss Eli2abeth sat.
"he two 0iss Bennets winced slightly.
0r. 3arcy bowed and as the ladies settled once more, another chime followed and still went
unnoticed by 0iss Bingley, though 0rs. /urst loo*ed around in confusion. "he gentleman raised
a brow, loo*ing directly at 0iss Eli2abeth who suddenly seemed very focused on her tea.
-5h 0r. 3arcy, what a surprise,. 0iss Bingley greeted, gesturing at a servant to attend her7 -will
you not join us for tea6.
-I am afraid not 0iss Bingley, the gentlemen and I are doing some shooting and I am afraid
some of the pheasants have moved closer to this side of the house..
-But of course 0r. 3arcy, how very *ind of you to inform us, you needed not to e!ert yourself,
however, you could have sent a servant to me..
Before he could reply a gunshot went off from the window behind them and 0iss Bingley's
composure fell apart with a shrie*.
"here was three more gunshots and then silence followed by the far away cheer of Bennet
declaring his catch of his chosen prey and Bingley stating that the *ill was his.
0iss Bennet seemed unaffected by the half)hearted argument of her brother and their neighbor
as well as the proceeding gunshots that fired soon after7 she simply too* another sip of her tea.
0rs. /urst shoved two fingers in her ears while 0iss Bingley mimic*ed the action, shouting, -Is
1rance invading, what is this madness6.
&nother chime sounded as 0iss Eli2abeth raised a hand to her mouth to muffle her laugh7 the
soft ring of the bell lacing effortlessly with her laugh.
3arcy, catching sight of the object pee*ing from the edge of 0iss Eli2abeth's sleeve, raised a
brow as the tiny bell jingled loud enough to garner the attention of her hostess and her sister in
another silence proceeding.
&pparently still deafened by the earlier shots, 0iss Bingley shouted, -Is that hell calling or does
heaven bec*on6 I hear death's bell:.
0rs. /urst seemed to have recovered first, and pulled her sister's hands from her ears. Both
sisters loo*ed embarrassed as 0r. 3arcy still stood before them with a coc*ed brow.
-8our brother did send a servant, but as he did not return I offered to ensure that the message
was delivered. I suggest removing to another room for entertainment, I am afraid Bingley and
Bennet are determined to have pheasant for supper..
.
;ith the ladies and gentleman of ongbourn leaving in the afternoon, Bingley was left to shoot
alone while 3arcy had to entertain himself in (etherfield's still lac*ing library with his sister's
letter.
,eorgiana was mostly contented being alone in =emberley, her letters to him consisting of her
e!cited retellings of how her day was spent.
"he new companion he had procured for her seemed to be doing wonders for her temperament
and despite her being past the age of needing a governess, the occupations that *ept her busy
seemed to be e!actly what she needed.
/iss &ucas, ,eorgina had written, has said that people are happiest when kept busy and
though she does not think me an unhappy person 7and indeed, I am not8, it has been a source
of great amusement. I have not neglected my instrument, however, I have already perfected the
new pieces you have brought for me and I cannot wait to play them for you when you return: ,h
my, your idea brings me much delight brother5 pray I will play a concerto of /o'art for you in
e)change for a picture of &i''y.
/owever, despite his love of 0o2art's wor*, the picture his sister requested was difficult to
manufacture.
1ive rough compositions were created through the past few days based on memory alone, and
none appeared satisfactory enough to send.
-3oes something trouble you sir6.
-(ot at all..
-&re you writing a letter to dear ,eorgiana6 /ow I adore her, she is such a lovely girl. =lease
greet her for me and tell her that I delight in any opportunity to see her again,. 0iss Bingley
simpered. ;hen he did not respond, she as*ed, -=ray, what is the topic of your letter6 8ou
seem very engaged..
-She wishes to *now about /ertfordshire..
-"hen I am afraid you shall disappoint her. /ertfordshire is nothing to 3erbyshire..
-I admit I am partial,. said he, -but she was referring to the community and the people, I have
already bored her sufficiently with my description of the flora..
-5h, that I doubt+.
&gain there was silence as 0iss Bingley attempted once again to see the letter 0r. 3arcy was
writing. But his free hand obscured the page.
-"he people here are savage,. she said in observation, -4ane Bennet, I grant you is a sweet girl,
but her sisters are ghastly.. ;hen no response was made, she continued, -"hat 0ary is far too
severe, I imagine she shall become an old maid. "he two youngest are positively odd, why the
brunette spea*s forever of sprites and the blonde answers my civility with impertinence. "hat
ydia girl must have gotten it from 0iss Eli2a..
-&s I recall, you did not attempt to converse with 0iss Bennet's other sisters and as for 0iss
Eli2abeth, I hardly thin* her wit is shown particularly to you or 0rs. /urst..
-;ell, it is of no consequence. (o proper lady of good breeding is as sharp tongued as she. If I
were her, I would learn to be silent. "here is nothing to recommend her after all. ;hy, she has
no real fortune and she has connections to Cheapside of all places: /er sister at least, can
behave li*e a lady7 however, 0iss Eli2a has neither the grace of her sister nor the beauty of her
either..
-"here is a lac* of symmetry in her features,. 0r. 3arcy agreed, -however, her eyes are
uncommonly fine..
-/er eyes sir6.
-8es,. he answered, not loo*ing up from his parchment, apparently lost in thought as his hand
moved rapidly across the page. -/er eyes are lovely..
-I see nothing remar*able about them, there is a shrewdness to them that I do not li*e at all. In
fact, I want nothing to do with her,. 0iss Bingley declared.
-"hen why do you constantly wish for them to call on you6.
-I do not,. she answered petulantly, -this county is savage as I said, and good company is
limited..
-So her company is at least good..
-(o:.
-If you would 0iss Bingley, I do not favor the company of indecisive young ladies nor do I have
the patience to deal with a confusing one..
-5f course 0r. 3arcy, of course,. she agreed, -it is only that 0iss Bennet is such a gentle soul
that I do not wish to frighten her away by merely inviting her alone. ;hy, ouisa and I are so far
away in ran* from her that I fear she would be intimidated..
Considering the dour 0iss Bennet did not even flinch at the gunshots outside, being intimidated
by gaudy orange and pheasant feathers seemed ridiculous to him.
-But since you and Charles are meeting with the officers tomorrow, I am sure she will have less
to be concerned about. 8es, I thin* it is a very fair idea indeed. ;e shall have none of my
brother's antics to frighten her and surely in a more intimate environment, 0iss Bennet would
certainly feel comfortable enough to attend to me without the company of her insupportable
sister. ;hat a good idea it is, I than* you 0r. 3arcy:.
Before 0iss Bingley could continue forth in the vein of spea*ing her appreciation for the
gentleman she set her cap upon, the grandfather cloc* in the hallway chimed and she jumped in
surprise.
3arcy did not loo* up. -'"is not hell calling nor heaven bec*oning. I beg you not to spea* of
death when your brother is out shooting..
.
Chapter thirteen
.
-/ow unfortunate,. 0rs. Bennet murmured.
-/ow so mama,. Aitty as*ed, peering over her s*etchboo* to watch her mother pace.
-;hy Aitty, you simpleton,. ydia said, -it is because that ghastly 0iss Bingley has just
demanded the presence of 4ane regardless of any plans she has already arranged and has also
slighted i22y in so doing.. She snorted as she plopped on the seat ne!t to her. -"hey may be
rich, but that does not e!cuse their rudeness..
Eli2abeth chuc*led as she loo*ed over her shoulder. -(ow I hardly thin* you need to be so
severe on my part ydia. I do not care for their company either so I suppose 0iss Bingley and I
shall remain mutually rude together..
-Still it does not e!cuse the fact that she demands 4ane about as if she were a servant..
-3o you really thin* 4ane is one to be ordered about6. 0ary as*ed as she began another song
on the pianoforte when Eli2abeth turned the page. -Chances are our dear sister is merely using
it to her advantage..
Ben coc*ed a brow. -I will never question my sister's cunning, however, I fail to see what she
could gain from being in company with 0iss Bingley..
-;hy is it not obvious6 "he tea, of course, our uncle could not spare any for us these past few
wee*s and 4ane rather misses it..
-&nd let us not forget the occasion allowed to see 0r. Bingley,. Aitty added.
-5h tosh Aitty,. 0rs. Bennet said before any of her sisters could respond, -0y 4ane is only there
for 0r. 3arcy..
Simultaneously the other occupants of the room rolled their eyes. "heir mama had changed her
mind yet again on who her eldest and prettiest was to wed, and due to the seed of doubt
planted during the 0eryton &ssembly about the irregularity of 0r. Stewart's seriousness towards
4ane's unmarried status, 0rs. Bennet was sure that 0r. 3arcy in all his somber air would not
hesitate in the action.
&ny one of her daughters rightly tried to dissuade their mother against the match, but was
stopped from doing so as 4ane entered the parlor with hand*erchief in hand and a crease of
frustration in her brow.
-/as anyone seen the blue thread6.
-3ear 4ane, there you are:.
-8es 0ama, here I am,. she said distractedly as she loo*ed about the parlor, lifting cushions in
her search for the blue thread. -I apologi2e, but I require the thread to finish my embroidery,
have you seen it6.
-4ane, that is of no importance:.
-5f course it is,. said she in borderline panic, -I cannot leave my hand*erchief thusly.. 4ane
presented the material to her assembled family.
Ben blin*ed. -I fail to see what is wrong..
-It loo*s utterly dreadful,. the eldest moaned.
-But there is nothing on it 4ane+6.
-I was meant to start it yesterday, but I enjoyed tea far longer than I should have with 0iss
Bingley and 0rs. /urst and now I fear I am behind..
-Behind for what6. Ben as*ed again, loo*ing completely lost.
Beside him, Aitty shoo* her head. -Come now brother, you have not been gone so long as to
forget our sister's regimental habits. 8ou *now our 4ane does not li*e to waste her days and as
the saying goes# Carpe 3iem..
-"hen I fear she shall have to waste a day more,. Eli2abeth said as she turned another page for
0ary, the bell upon her wrist still chiming with her movements.
-;hy, what is the matter, do we not have any more blue thread6.
-(o, no my 4ane,. 0rs. Bennet said, quite annoyed with her daughter's ravings over the thread
she so desperately needed. -8ou have an invitation to dine at (etherfield. ?nfortunately the
gentlemen will not be in attendance, but fear not, I have already thought of a way to fi! that..
-&re you going to drag them out of their supper with the officers by their ears6.
-/ardly tactful my dear Benjamin,. 0rs. Bennet declared disdainfully. -(o, I was thin*ing that
you could convince them that you much prefer having supper at (etherfield, it is much closer to
where the officers are dining is it not6.
-I am afraid I cannot, even if I did not thin* the idea was completely unnecessary $which I do%
because father and I are dealing with some estate business this very day and I had to decline
the invitation to supper with them..
-Cannot your meeting with your father wait6.
-If you agree to watch your economy better until harvesting season then yes, I suppose we can
ris* our family's financial security to indulge your whims..
-& simple >no' would have sufficed Benjamin..
/is e!pression changed to one of sheepish amusement, -;ould it really mama6.
"he matron huffed. -"hen I suppose my 4ane, you will have to travel by horsebac*..
-Surely not 0ama,. Eli2abeth said with a frown, -have you not seen the weather outside6 &
storm is surely due tonight at the latest..
-& bit of rain is no concern of mine especially when 4ane has a husband to secure..
5n a normal occasion, 4ane would argue against her mother's scheme, but as it was, the eldest
was still too focused on her search for the blue thread to hear one word in five that was
e!changed since her entrance into the drawing room. If there was one thing anyone could fault
4ane Bennet in, it was her blind determination to do something regardless of what was going on
around her.
5f course in this case, it wor*ed e!actly in 0rs. Bennet's favor as she sent her daughter not an
hour later to the home of their neighbor with a promise to find the blasted blue thread that she
was going on about.
(ot that 0rs. Bennet was going to actually loo* for it.
;hy loo* for a silly thread when you can find a husband instead6
.
"he ne!t morning in (etherfield, the gentlemen were assembled at the brea*fast table while the
ladies of the house still occupied with their sleep.
5bviously not used to the differences in county time to town time, Bingley and /urst were still
relatively drowsy in front of their plates. 3arcy, however, was lively.
-I hardly thin* forcing her against her will to stay here is completely necessary..
-8ou cannot e!pect me to allow her home in her state,. Bingley argued.
-=lease pass the butter,. /urst interjected.
-8ou allowed Bennet home..
-(o,. Bingley disagreed, -Bennet left too early and I was not conscious enough to fight with
him..
/urst tried again. -5r the jam then6.
-8ou as*ed 0iss Bennet yourself this morning and she said she was perfectly fine..
-/ave you gone mad6 /er eyes were red, her voice was bro*en and when she was not trying to
spea* she was too busy trying to breathe in between coughs:.
-1ine, I shall get it myself since neither of you wish to enjoy brea*fast,. /urst grumbled, pushing
his chair bac* so its legs scrapped against the wood with a gritty moan.
-It is a trifle in the country Bingley, that is normally the aftereffects of a storm, hardly a thing to
*eep her bedridden for, she loo*ed positively miserable being denied leave..
-5f course she was7 she is sic* after all 3arcy:.
-If I may interrupt,. /urst said ta*ing a seat after collecting what he wanted, -why are you so
insistent on bringing up a matter that has already been dealt with 3arcy6.
-8es, I would li*e to *now as well..
/e rolled his eyes. -;e all *now how you are Bingley, one pretty face and your head goes out
the door. 3o you not reali2e how improper it is for 0iss Bennet to stay here, particularly without
any male companion and completely at the mercy of an unmarried gentleman6.
-;ell I ).
-I *now that you would never do anything improper and yes considering the circumstances, the
situation is somewhat perfectly understandable, however, you must remember that you have
been through this before..
-&nd when is that, I do not recall ).
-0iss Birch..
-0iss 9oss,. /urst added, -&nd 0iss 5scar..
-0iss 1indale as well as I recall, though her uncle did impose himself upon you in order to help
his niece appear that you compromised her..
-"han*fully the dreadful goat ended up in the situation himself. Caught by Caroline was it6.
/urst said with a bar* of a laugh. -0iss 1indale and her uncle had to wed two wee*s after to
prevent a scandal..
-&nd we would not want the same of you..
-0iss Birch could have caught something dreadful,. Bingley tried to defend.
-8es, fa*ing a cough before the end of the ball you hosted in ondon last year, just as she was
wal*ing out the door into a mildly chilly evening is bound to get you bedridden for three days,.
/urst reminded with a snort.
-;ell, 0iss 9oss certainly was ill..
-&h yes, ill with how well of a prospect you were that she fa*ed a swoon in front of you in order
to have you carry her into the parlor where your sister had visitors. It was only because your
house*eeper in ondon was waving around some dangerous loo*ing contraption claiming that it
could heal such maladies that she awo*e and was discovered..
-0iss 5scar, now, something really was wrong with her:.
-Certainly, only a young woman either desperate or cra2y enough would play such a farce in
order to figure out how much you were worth before planning ne!t how to entrap you..
-;ell,. he began, but e!haled in defeat, slumping into his chair, -it is obvious I cannot thin* for
myself when beautiful ladies are involved..
-;hich is why you have us,. /urst pointed out, but his brother)in)law's depressed loo* had yet
to fade and so the older gentlemen e!changed glances.
3arcy sighed. -It is in your favor Bingley7 that 0iss Bennet is actually ill and is not simply acting
it..
-/ow are you sure6 3id 0r. 4ones arrive yet6.
-(o, but ,eorgiana suffers from such ills during the changing seasons so the signs are very
familiar to me,. 3arcy said, -/owever, that does not mean you must be any less vigilant when
you are around 0iss Bennet. Even though she is the eldest sister of our friend, even you were
once blind to your sister's mercenary designs..
-3o you truly thin* 0iss Bennet would be mercenary 3arcy6.
/e sighed again. -;e have seen too many people in our lives marry for the wrong reasons, the
least we can do is be cautious..
/urst shoo* his head. -;here were you when I needed you 3arcy6.
Bingley gave a slight grin as he answered, -=robably hiding from Caroline..
.
"he family was not surprised at the note that arrived that morning. 4ane had not returned from
dining with the (etherfield ladies the day before.
It rained heavily without intermission the entire night, glares of lightning, roars of thunder and
howls of wind sending the household on edge.
;ith 4ane absent and the storm unruly, the remaining Bennet girls huddled together in their
eldest siblings' bed and an!iously tried to discern the fury of the tempest from the thunderous
ruc*us of a horse and carriage.
&fter all, their brother had accompanied 4ane and surely at the turning of the weather they
would immediately return home.
0rs. Bennet had originally delighted in the birth of the storm, but grew increasingly wary when it
continued to increase in magnitude7 her younger daughters' worry that Ben and 4ane were
caught in the squall further agitated the matron's nerves.
/er husband had done little to ease her when he returned to find two of his children gone and
merely shoo* his head with a frustrated sigh. 0r. Bennet's silence on her actions causing to
unnerve her more than any argument would have.
"he guilt brought up from the evening past dissipated that morning with the arrival of Ben and
the note from 4ane and from a miserable, emotional wrec* to a ball of triumph and happiness,
his mother greeted him jovially#
-0y dear Ben, why did you not stay at (etherfield to *eep your sister's company, silly boy,
coming home to tell us what we already *now:.
-;e did not *now that 4ane would get sic*,. Aitty disagreed, -we were all worried that Benny
and 4ane were hurt in that storm:.
-I assure you, I am well,. her brother said with a half)smile, -it is my sister I am worried about,
4ane's cough is quite bad. I have no doubt she slept ill last night..
-Is she alright6. 0ary as*ed as she led her younger twin into an empty chair. It was obvious he
was very tired himself, he was practically swaying on his feet and everyone present could
clearly see the dar* rings below his eyes.
-5f course she is, people do not die from trifle colds,. 0rs. Bennet said bree2ily.
-8es, but they can from e!haustion, Ben, will you not get some rest6.
/e shoo* himself off sleep, though it easily lingered in his slumped posture and glossy ga2e.
-(o)no, I am quite well. I must return to 4ane, Bingley will not have her moved, I cannot leave
her. Besides, she as*ed if I could fetch some things for her which is really my purpose of
returning home otherwise I would have simply sent a servant to deliver the note..
-8ou are barely awa*e, Ben, let a servant fulfill the tas* and you may rest,. 0r. Bennet
instructed gesturing at a servant to attend to him only to have Ben sha*e his head again before
he spo*e, -4ane was very specific about it and though she trusts that a servant can deliver it
without damage, I cannot trust that she will be safe without me there..
0rs. Bennet could not even deign to refute the statement that there was certainly nothing
improper to occur in the absence of 4ane's brother in another gentleman's home before
Eli2abeth entered the brea*fast room adorning her brother's boots and carrying a reticule.
-(ow where on earth do you thin* you are going i22y6.
-"o see 4ane,. she answered fran*ly, only stopping to grab an apple from the bas*et and then
*issing her brother on the chee*.
-/ow can you be so silly6 8ou mean to traipse in all that dirt and all that filth6 8ou will not be fit
for company when you reach (etherfield i22y, have some sense:.
-I will be fit to see 4ane and that is my only purpose,. was her daughter's resolute response. -I
shall give her your love..
.
3arcy inhaled the crisp morning air, the rain clouds from last night and much earlier in the
morning completely vanished into the blue s*y.
&chilles was nervous from the storm last night as he was with all storms, and if his luc* held out,
the stubborn animal would be cooperative for the ne!t few days.
8es, it was a good morning indeed.
/e would have usually urged the creature around the estate considering he did not *now the
condition of the roads, however, he had just narrowly escaped 0iss Bingley that very morning
and he had no doubt that she would attempt to follow him on a morning ride, probably with a few
bread rolls in hand.
She had overheard Bingley's teasing some mornings ago about brea*fast rolls and 0iss
Eli2abeth. /e blamed Bennet for the treachery and the younger gentleman laughed and said, -It
seems you are agitated 3arcy, here, have a bread roll..
&chilles, reali2ing where his rider intended for him to go, attempted to argue as he stopped
completely to sha*e his head, 3arcy was not to be dissuaded and the creature huffed. /e rolled
his eyes at the horse's annoyance and released one hand from the reins to stro*e &chilles'
head. -&re you really that afraid of puddles6.
& snort came from him in reply and his rider chuc*led.
Anowing that it was probably for the best that he avoid going faster than a canter, 3arcy allowed
&chilles to roam about the roads just beyond the territory of (etherfield.
& vigorous morning ride could be rectified when &chilles' nervousness gave out, assuming there
were no more storms. 9egardless, 3arcy enjoyed the calming effect of being outside and alone
bar his horse and the morning birds chirping in the distance.
"he air was fresh, crisp and aromatic with the scents of grass and flowers mingling with the
earthy smell of the damp ground. /e breathed in deeply as &chilles continued to wal* about in
cautious curiosity.
3arcy always found solace outside, particularly when he was frustrated which he was not since
arriving to /ertfordshire.
&s long as he stayed in the protective walls of (etherfield, he would not be e!posed to any
match)ma*ing mamas and their scheming daughters. "hough he did admit that the presence of
the eldest 0iss Bennet did worry him, Bingley was a man constantly falling in and out of love,
without any day of reprieve from the blonde belle's attendance, 3arcy had no doubt that his
friend would fancy himself seriously in love with her despite not *nowing whether she felt the
same for him. Considering the number of ladies who had almost successfully entrapped his
friend in the past, 3arcy was distrustful of the young lady's designs.
&chilles nic*ered, pulling him from his thoughts as he loo*ed towards the crest of a hill where a
figure appeared.
3ar* brown hair, though neatly pulled behind her head, whipped out of their ribbon to frame her
face and curl la2ily against her nec*. Even from the distance, 3arcy could see the brightness of
her eyes and the blossom of color upon her chee*s.
/e attempted to clear his throat to rouse himself from his thoughts just as 0iss Eli2abeth
noticed him.
&s far as morning wal*s went, Eli2abeth always enjoyed it, but there was something about
dodging water filled pot)holes that was a cause of great amusement for the young lady. "hough
she reminded herself that she had ta*en this path for a reason# to see her sister 4ane.
It ir*ed her how her mother so easily brushed her sister's health aside.
If Ben were the one that was sic*, 0rs. Bennet would have gotten into a fit and arranged
marriages for all her sisters and herself to any mildly respectful gentlemen she could find while
lamenting the fate of the hedgerows should Ben not recover.
Eli2abeth shoo* her head.
It was perfectly reasonable though, the claim on the estate was based on the presence of a
male heir, without Ben the fear of being turned for the hedgerows would be all too real.
Still. 3id her mother not care for the health of her other children6
Sighing, she shoo* her head again and focused on the path she was to ta*e and that was when
she loc*ed eyes with a gentleman at the bottom of the hill.
/is blac* curls were windswept, his eyes a startling blue and a smile, seemingly fro2en on his
face, rested against his lips. ;hen he noticed her stare, his e!pression quic*ly resumed one of
e!pressionless calm and she would have gladly returned such a ga2e if she had not noticed the
beast he rode.
She jumped in surprise and 3arcy was reminded that he was on his horse.
-,ood morning 0iss Eli2abeth,. he greeted as he removed himself from the saddle, his hand
clutching onto the reins of &chilles who nic*ered as well, as if greeting the lady too.
-,ood morning sir,. she responded, eying the creature warily.
1eeling ignored, &chilles huffed and shoo* his head before moving to nudge her. & slight smile
pulled the corner of her lips. -&nd to you as well+.
-&chilles,. his rider supplied and seeing her fingers twitch at her side, he automatically reached
for her wrist and placed her hand gently atop the horse's nose. -3id you not say that you were
not afraid of horses 0iss Eli2abeth6.
-8es,. she replied, -but I also said that yours is fearsome..
&t the reply, &chilles shoo* his head indignantly, sha*ing her hand off his nose. ;hy the nerve:
/im, fearsome7 certainly not:
0iss Eli2abeth seemed to understand this and grinned. -I am afraid I have upset you..
-Indeed..
-But a simple apology will not suffice6. 0iss Eli2abeth as*ed and the horse nodded in
agreement. -;ell, I suppose I shall have to ma*e amends..
It was almost comical how both the horse and his rider tilted their head slightly in question and
Eli2abeth resisted the urge to laugh as she reached into her poc*et and pulled out a shiny red
apple.
-;ould you li*e a bite6.
"he horse neighed in cheer, pluc*ing the fruit from her hand without further question.
Beside him, his rider rolled his eyes. -/as it occurred to you &chilles7 that the apple was for
me6. &chilles made a snort of disbelief and Eli2abeth laughed outright.
8es. It was a very good morning.
.
Caroline was displeased.
-;hat do you mean he went on a ride6 /ow preposterous, the roads are not fit for such an
activity,. she stated in annoyance. -/onestly Charles, 0r. 3arcy would not be so foolish..
-/e is not a foolish man,. her brother agreed, -however, he *nows that his horse is terribly
affected by storms and he will not have &chilles hiding in the stables in fear..
-;ell, that may be true, but where is the logic in avoiding brea*fast6.
-/e bro*e fast with /urst and me. 8ou and ouisa are still used to wa*ing with ondon to wa*e
li*e us country)fol*..
-Country)fol*7 you, Charles, you only started awa*ing with the dawn as of yesterday..
0r. /urst chuc*led. -eave him be ouisa, if he wishes to thin* himself country)fol* then allow
him. ;e are here only on his hospitality after all. /e could very well declare that all horses can
fly li*e the mythical beast =egasus. Indulge him in that and perhaps we may avoid my mother
this 0ichaelmas..
& servant invaded the parlor with the announcement, -& 0iss Bennet to see you..
-&h, yes, send her in,. Charles declared already ma*ing a move to stand as 0iss Eli2abeth
entered.
,reetings were e!changed throughout the room before Caroline began, -;hy 0iss Eli2a, did
you wal* here6.
-8es,. answered she, -I *now that I am rather early to impose you, however, I really do wish to
*now how my sister fares..
-5f course 0iss Eli2abeth, I shall gladly show you,. Charles said, again, already ma*ing a move
to stand.
&s Charles and 0iss Eli2abeth left the parlor doors, ouisa spo*e in a scandali2ed tone, -;hy,
did you see her petticoats, si! inches deep in mud, and trailing it everywhere:.
-"o wal* three miles, or four miles, or five miles, or whatever it is, above her an*les in dirt and
quite alone, what could she possibly mean by it6.
0r. 3arcy choose that time to enter. -If it appeases you 0iss Bingley, 0iss Eli2abeth did not
wal* alone for some of the distance..
Caroline brightened at the arrival of the gentleman and said, -5h, but still 0r. 3arcy, you would
not be inclined to allow your sister to wal* in such conditions and certainly not without the
protection of a gentleman..
-Certainly not, however, since I wal*ed with both my sister and 0iss Eli2abeth in the very same
conditions you spea* of, I cannot fault her,. he answered as he moved to bow before he made
an e!it, -I only hope you forgive me for getting mud on your floor as well..
.
Chapter fourteen
.
;hen brea*fast was complete the Bennet girls were attended by the company of the (etherfield
ladies before the arrival of the apothecary.
0r. 4ones' entrance was swift, but the elderly gentleman remained inside the room for quite
some time, reassuring the young woman and her sister that she was not terribly ill but such a
malady could progress if she were to be moved. Both Bennet sisters e!pressed their discomfort
at such a situation, but 0iss Bingley was surprisingly compassionate at the verdict and assured
the apothecary that she would never thin* of turning 4ane away in her time of need. 0rs. /urst
heartily agreed.
&t the e!clamation, Eli2abeth felt herself softening to them if only for their concern of her
beloved sister.
"he gentlemen were not obligated to be present when 0iss Bennet was being e!amined, but
nonetheless Bingley stood in the hallway, impatiently tugging at his cravat to 3arcy's
annoyance.
;hen the door opened, Bingley appeared e!cessively pale.
,radually the colour returned to his chee*s as 0r. 4ones gave him the same reassuring smile
he had given 0iss Eli2abeth as he repeated his observations of the ill)feeling young woman,
and that moving her would not be preferable.
-5f course not: I would never thin* of such a thing..
-I have already prescribed a few draughts that she must ta*e, but all she really requires is bed)
rest. Be assured, she will be right by a few days..
-I than* you sir,. he said in relief, sha*ing the apothecary's hand.
-It is no problem 0r. Bingley7 however, the young lady and her sister are quite concerned..
-Concerned6. the gentleman repeated before catching the dar*ening in his friend's eyes.
ast time a lady and her relative were -concerned., Bingley was almost entrapped. I dearly
hope, thought 3arcy, that this is not another repeat of 0iss 1indale and her uncle.
-8es,. 0r. 4ones answered, rearranging his spectacles atop his nose, -it is not completely
unwarranted sir as 0iss Bennet is unmarried and this is a rather precarious situation, but 0iss
Eli2abeth wishes use of your carriage to return her sister home. I have already said that moving
0iss Bennet at such a time could be detrimental to her health and 0iss Bingley has already
offered your home for her recovery. /owever, 0iss Eli2abeth feels that it is not entirely proper..
-I daresay it is not, however, I feel I must dispute this. Surely 0iss Eli2abeth sees how it may
upset her sister to be moved in such a state...
-&s it is sir, decorum is all a young lady has. I am not a gossip, but you should *now that 0rs.
Bennet has been trying to get her daughters wed for some time, I have *nown the girls since
they were babes and they do not wish to be part of such schemes. 0iss Bennet, though she
may appear fragile, is quite robust and I am sure the move to ongbourn will not ta! her over
much..
-(evertheless, I cannot thin* of moving her. ;hat does 0iss Bennet say6.
-She does not wish to impose..
-Surely Caroline did not hint that she would:.
-(o, but I am sure 0iss Bennet's father and brother would thin* this is very inappropriate..
Indeed, this was starting to sound very much li*e the 0iss 1indale incident, all 0r. 4ones had to
do was suggest his staying in Bingley's house and it would certainly be the same episode.
-"hen I shall as* for Bennet's accompaniment, surely then 0iss Bennet would not worry so
much6.
It was almost painful for 3arcy to have to see the same scene play out again7 however, the
gentleman could not ignore Bingley's desire to *eep 0iss Bennet at (etherfield which only
made the whole thing that much worse. /e grimaced.
-I am afraid not,. 0r. 4ones replied, -it seems that the younger 0r. Bennet has ta*en ill as well
and his mother is in a fit of nerves..
3arcy blin*ed in surprise and found himself spea*ing lowly to the older gentleman, -3oes his
sisters *now6.
-I have been requested by their father that they should not, especially if 0iss Bennet is as ill as
her brother..
Bingley's brow was furrowed deeply.
-"han* you for the information 0r. 4ones,. 3arcy murmured as he loc*ed eyes with Bingley
who nodded slightly in reply.
-I shall do the best of my abilities to *eep them here until the storm in their home has passed,.
Bingley said before he added hopefully, -can you not try once more to convince 0iss Eli2abeth
not to plan her and 0iss Bennet's departure6.
0r. 4ones gave a rueful smile. -I am afraid I cannot, 0iss Eli2abeth is terribly stubborn. "hough
they may tread on your hospitality, convincing them to do so will be your tas* to fulfill..
.
Eli2abeth sent the servant away with a sigh noting the still shallow, labored breathing of her
older sister.
-5h dear 4ane, how could mama do this to you6.
;arily the blonde crac*ed open her eyes, stained with red and almost appearing to be sun*en
into her face. -It is not her fault sweeting, she cannot account for the rain,. she croa*ed.
-I *now, but I wish that you did not have to get sic* because of it..
-I am sure she did not wish for me to feel unwell..
-(o, she only wished for you to stay the night because of the storm. 0ama is as scheming as
any mother with five unmarried daughters ought to be, but she would not wish for you to be in
such a state.. & beat passed before Eli2abeth murmured, -I hope Ben is well, I saw him before I
left ongbourn and he loo*ed very much li*e you..
-5h, but he is my little brother i22y, surely there will be some resemblance. "hough I cringe to
thin* that we loo* too similar, he is a boy after all..
& small laugh escaped her and she duc*ed her head slightly to press a *iss against her sister's
forehead, only to have the young lady turn her head so that her sister *issed her hair instead.
Eli2abeth loo*ed confused. -4ane6.
-I would not wish you to ta*e ill,. said she with as much resolve as a sic* person could muster,
-it is ta*ing everything in me not to demand for some form of occupation which I *now you will
refuse to supply despite bringing your reticule. I shudder to thin* you in such a state of
incapacitation, *nowing you7 you shall go mad without activity..
-"oo true dearest. =lease, you must rest now. "he sooner you are better, the sooner your idle
hands may grasp whatever form of occupation you desire for I *now this state of forced leisure
is torture to you..
-But I cannot sleep i22y,. she whined.
-&h, then it is a good thing I brought this.. 9eaching for the reticule she had brought with her
and placed on the nightstand of her sister's bed, she removed the small, wooden bo! from the
hand*erchief it was wrapped in.
4ane watched her sister turn the little *ey in the loc* of the small yet intricately decorated bo!
and set it bac* onto the nightstand. Before the elder 0iss Bennet *new it, the soft melody
accompanied the rising and turning of a little ballerina from the bo!.
.
It was no surprise to the Bennet family when a note arrived from Eli2abeth stating 4ane's need
to stay in (etherfield. & sigh of relief actually passed 0ary's lips as she finished reading the
contents aloud to her father who was busily writing upon a piece of parchment with a furrowed
brow and hunched shoulders.
&t the lac* of response, she peered at him.
-It is good then is it not, that 4ane and i22y are to be at (etherfield6.
& nod answered her.
-1ather, what is troubling you6.
/e sighed and leaned bac* into his chair, staring down at the parchment on his des*. -It is
nothing important 0ary..
-I understand,. she began, -that for 4ane's health, she could not *now about Ben catching ill.
/owever, I fail to see the purpose in *eeping i22y from the truth..
-It is merely a precaution since Ben cannot be there to ensure that decorum is maintained while
4ane is at (etherfield and I cannot ris* leaving the estate at such a time. Besides, 4ane will want
to *now how her family fares and i22y is not obliged to tell lies..
-Is there a reason then that mama is throwing Aitty, ydia and me towards the neighborhood this
afternoon6.
-/as she already recovered from her fit of nerves6.
-0ama has had her moment,. 0ary claimed flatly, -She has ordered /ill to attend to Benny's
every whim and called for 0r. 4ones to bring as many of his potions as possible to cure him.
&nd now she has turned her attention to her other children+.
She allowed her last sentence to hang, and after another moment of silence, 0r. Bennet
relented, -8ou *now it is only in case Ben does not recover my dear 0ary, it is your mother
ensuring you do not end up in the hedgerows. &t least then if you are sociali2ing more and find
a gentleman you li*e, you have the chance to marry him before that cousin of yours arrives to
lay claim to everything the estate holds..
4ane would have read in between the words her father spo*e, and 0ary was nothing if not
observant.
-/e wishes to marry one of us6.
-&pparently so,. her father answered, -Ben must heal quic*ly before word gets out or we shall
have 0r. Collins descending upon us with frightening alacrity..
-So you have *ept i22y at (etherfield to ensure she was not in his sights6.
-8ou *now how your mother's mind wor*s,. he answered with a grimace. -She would never
sacrifice 4ane, ydia is far too young, Aitty too whimsical for a man of the cloth and you mother
is certain that if that man were to notice you, you would revolt against him simply to spite her..
-I would not spite 0ama,. 0ary answered furiously, -I am the most accomplished of her
daughters as everyone says, and I only perform and play because I *now how she li*es to show
us off. "he only way that I have spited her is in my lac* of beauty which was no decision of
mine..
-0ary ).
-(o, if that man is to come to ongbourn and Benny is not well, then I shall endeavor to entrap
him. i22y will not marry for duty, but I will..
.
&t (etherfield, 3arcy paced the length from his seat in the library to the fireplace where he
paused for a moment before he wal*ed bac*.
Bac* and forth, bac* and forth, bac* and forth7 the seemingly endless journey watched by
Bingley who grew more restless with each tic* of the cloc* on the mantelpiece.
-3arce, would you stop your incessant pacing6.
-It is the only way I can thin*..
-I hardly thin* you need your feet to thin* for you..
-(o, but it is better than having my *nee jig irritatingly without my control,. he retorted to
Bingley's sheepish annoyance as he rested his fist against the accused *nee to stop the
movement.
-I am agitated..
-&s am I,. 3arcy agreed, finally coming to a stop to rest his hand on the mantelpiece, gripping it
to physically dispel the odd churning in his stomach.
& silence passed.
-3o you thin* Bennet will be alright6.
-;e cannot be certain, his last affliction had him bedridden for two wee*s as I recall..
-8es, during Easter last year was it6. Bingley murmured in question. -I sincerely hope it is not as
serious as that..
-/opefully his recovery will be swifter here in the country..
-Indeed..
&nother silence.
-3arcy6.
-;hat is it Bingley6.
-3o you thin* Bennet was e!aggerating when he spo*e of how his cousin will ta*e everything
away from the estate in a heartbeat once he and his father have passed6. /e referred to the
occasion of Bennet's illness last Easter while he was visiting his aunt and uncle in Cheapside.
"he two gentlemen were already well acquainted with both Bennet and 0r. ,ardiner and were
at ,racechurch Street on a social call as a way of inquiring about the health of their young
friend when they heard Bennet ranting in a drun*en state from his room upstairs.
audanum, 0r. ,ardiner had said, gives people the worse delusions when under its power but
for Benjamin Bennet, it only serves as truth serum, a very loud truth serum.
Ben's import of how much of a burden he would be to his family at death, proclaimed loudly with
grunts and moans only served to end the call though not before 3arcy called upon one of his
family's personal doctors to attend to Ben.
0r. ,ardiner was not distressed by what Ben imparted un*nowingly in his state, however, the
older gentleman's lac* of objection to the claims only served to worry Bingley and 3arcy as they
left at the polite request of their host.
(either of them spo*e to Bennet or as*ed 0r. ,ardiner the e!tent of the claim away from the
female line, it was a family matter and as such neither gentlemen were in a place to pry. Even
when Bennet had admitted to the claim of his family's estate, it was said in jest, in particular to
the reasoning of his mother that all her five daughters had to be wed#
-1ive,. Bingley had e!claimed with his jaw hanging slightly a gap. -"hat is quite troublesome
indeed, five daughters:.
-8es it can be a trial, but my mother need not worry, I am of a strong constitution..
Strong though his health was7 when sic*ness did reach him it tended to be the worst.
-/e will recover,. 3arcy spo*e in the present, -it is a trifle cold..
Bingley did not loo* convinced.
.
&ambton
Dear &i''y,
$/er writing is elegant and big, showing e!citement% I am *uite a flutter today for my cousin
Richard is to visit me. -e is returned from overseas and though he is still to travel to &ondon
before he reaches my home, I can barely sit with the e)citement.
I am much the same when my brother is to return home, but since he is not to return for some
time, my cousin will have to do. $/er writing maintains elegant and big, obviously she has grown
used to being teased by i22y and so has learnt to tease in return% Richard, though he has been
in the militia for *uite some time, is no longer going to be part of the fight against 1apoleon and
is returning to the society of &ondon indefinitely.
$/er writing suddenly trails, lost in thought% -e had an elder brother you see, his name was
0ndrew. -e died a few weeks before I traveled to Ramsgate $>9amsgate' is no longer written
any differently, the fact that her writing remains constant shows that she is no longer afflicted by
what happened during the summer% and now Richard shall take his place.
-e writes to me too, not as much as you or my brother, but enough as he is able considering his
career5 he 3okes that at least now that his mother and father are providing him with a larger
income than the militia it might be enough enticement to give up the life he has gotten so used
to.
$/er writing is small% I think he misses 0ndrew and I think he shall miss traveling about as was
his wont for he always thought society was dull. "ut my aunt and uncle are worried for him and
he will not go against their wishes. -e has made them wait several months for his return5 and I
think he knows how much the waiting has grieved his parents further.
-e has said that he is visiting me first before returning home because he knows how his mother
will immediately attempt to get him married for he is *uite old and still a bachelor. -e says that it
will be his last taste of freedom before being shackled to 0ndrew+s old life 7for 0ndrew was a
bachelor too and constantly running around the ballrooms like my brother tends to do8.
0ndrew and my brother are *uite amusing to watch5 at least that is what he says. >4hen you
are finally out #eorgie,? he told me when I was younger, >you shall not be nervous for you shall
be too busy watching your old cousin and brother run about like headless chickens from society
mamas, and laughing with me:?
$/er writing gradually gets bigger% -e has a flair for the dramatics5 he would be a player, he told
me, if his mother would allow him.
0h, it seems I have written to the end of the parchment once more:
I hope you and your family is well &i''y. $/er writing is suddenly curling and mischievous%
6lease send my greetings to my brother for he rarely talks without you 7or so /iss "ingley has
hinted, in displeasure may I add8.
(ell me more5 I am absolutely bursting with curiosity:
#eorgiana
.
3arcy was not in a particularly good mood. /aving brooded with Bingley for the past hour, the
gentleman was feeling conflicted.
&lready deciding that 0iss Bennet could pose a threat to Bingley, 3arcy could not help but feel
that her reason for attempting to entrap his friend was at least understandable now.
If he were in such a position where =emberley was titled away from the female line and he were
to fall ill, he would wish for ,eorgiana's marriage as soon as may be. It would not be a matter of
0iss Bennet being ambitious and wishing to marry well, it was merely a matter of survival.
& part of his mind argued that surely if Bennet and his father were to pass, his sisters could live
with relatives could they not6
;ell not e!actly, another part of his mind answered.
1rom what he discerned from Bennet, the remaining 0iss Bennets had an aunt and uncle in
0eryton who could provide aid as well as their uncle and aunt in ondon. /owever, their uncle
in 0eryton was a lawyer who, though did well enough financially, would not be able to handle
si! $if you counted 0rs. Bennet% ladies to care for and certainly 0r. ,ardiner could not be
e!pected to provide care for them either, not with his own family to supply.
/e reached a hand up to his hair, running it over his face in frustration.
;hy was he worrying about this6 It was not his problem7 it was not his family, why should the
Bennets' situation matter to him6
& bell chimed and immediately 3arcy turned.
-5h, I am sorry to disturb you 0r. 3arcy,. 0iss Catherine said just as she stepped over an
overgrown root that protruded from the ground before dropping a curtsey. 5bviously the girl had
been traipsing about the wood li*e he had, just li*e your sister, he thought.
-It is alright 0iss Catherine,. he said, bowing in greeting as he rose the bell upon her wrist
caught his eye and his brow arched. It loo*ed e!actly li*e the bell 0iss Eli2abeth wore just this
morning.
She seemed to notice and gave a cheerful grin. -I was trying to hide from mama this morning,
and she made me wear a bell as punishment. I thought she would not because i22y was
already wearing one, but it seems mama was prepared as she had another to spare for me..
;ell that e!plained that, 3arcy thought in amusement.
-I am sorry to disturb you,. she repeated again, -but if I may as*, have you been wal*ing for very
long6.
-I am not sure, I *now I simply left the house and began to wal*..
-a, you are just li*e i22y: ;ell, regardless, have you seen any sprites on your wal* so far6.
/is lips twitched into a slight smile. -&re you still searching for them 0iss Catherine6.
-8es,. she answered with a pout, -I cannot find any and I have loo*ed everywhere:.
-;ell then, perhaps they are simply shy,. 3arcy could not fathom why he had said such a thing,
but 0iss Catherine seemed to agree with this as she nodded sagely.
-I supposed as much for I offered them apples and mince pies and they would not come out and
meet me, but I am sure they are around here somewhere.. Suddenly the young girl brightened
and she loo*ed to him with pleading eyes. -Sir, would you help me find them6.
=erhaps, 3arcy mused, he worried about them because all three of the younger 0iss Bennets
reminded him so much of ,eorgiana, and perhaps it was because of the reminder of his young
sister that he agreed to this scheme.
ord, if 9ichard found out about this, he would never hear the end of it.
.
Eli2abeth had to wal*.
4ane was right7 if she were to fall ill, being *ept abed would certainly be the death of her. &bout
two hours after she had fallen asleep, Eli2abeth entertained herself with responding to some
letters that she had brought with her and attempted the embroidery 4ane was an!ious to begin.
She had grown frustrated with the occupation as ydia did and after ensuring that a maid was
present to ta*e care of her sister, she left for the gardens.
& turnabout sated her for only a moment before a heavy clump of foliage caught her eye from
the distance and she wandered from the path of the gardens. ;ithout her brother's boots at her
disposal, Eli2abeth was forced to tread more carefully and drifted further and further into the
heavily wooded area.
Briefly she paused to listen to the birdsong accompanying the bree2e as it lifted restless leaves
off their perches and sent them dancing in the air. It was only the figure a few feet away,
hunched over on the ground near the base of a tree that ruined the magical scene Eli2abeth had
envisioned around her.
-Aitty, what on earth are you doing here6.
/er younger sister loo*ed up at her with a grin7 in her hands she held a piece of rope. -5h, hello
i22y,. greeted she with an airy smile. -/aving a nice wal*6. she inquired as she stood,
attempting to dust some of the dirt off her hands and clothes after releasing the rope.
-I suppose,. her sister answered, -what are you doing here Aitty6.
-0e, oh I was loo*ing for sprites,. she answered, stooping down to tie the rope again before
fussing over the fallen leaves. -0ama wanted me and ydia and 0ary to visit our neighbors and
I did not find it very interesting, so I left..
3umbfounded for a moment, Eli2abeth laughed. -Simply left6 5h Aitty7 how our mother must be
lamenting her nerves, and you left 0ary and ydia to fend for themselves6.
-It was of no difference whether I was there or not, ydia was enjoying all the attention and
0ary was perfectly fine loo*ing sour. She spo*e with papa before we left and she did not loo*
very happy so I suppose she wishes to stew in silence..
"hough curious as to 0ary and her father's apparent disagreement, Eli2abeth was still curious
as to what her sister was doing. -Aitty, what are you busy with6.
-I told you i22y, I am loo*ing for sprites..
-;ith rope6. her older sister questioned.
-5h yes, 0r. 3arcy is helping me..
-0r. 3arcy6. Eli2abeth repeated in confusion, but Aitty simply nodded and too* a few steps
away from the rope she tied and hid under a pile of leaves.
oo*ing up, she as*ed, -3id I do it well sir6.
Eli2abeth jumped in surprise at the voice that replied, -<ery well, I daresay, an e!cellent job 0iss
Catherine..(ot a moment later, 0r. 3arcy descended from the tree7 not loo*ing nearly as
unruffled as Aitty.
"urning 0r. 3arcy did not appear overly surprised at seeing her there but he remained coolly
polite as he bowed in greeting. -0iss Eli2abeth..
-0r. 3arcy,. she greeted in return, though it sounded more li*e a question.
Before she could give him a qui22ical loo*, Aitty spo*e, -0r. 3arcy said he would teach me how
to ma*e a trap so I could find the sprites..
-I thought you did not want to hunt them6.
-"hey were being ever so difficult i22y,. she griped, -I have loo*ed under every roc* and
climbed up every tree to find them and I have nothing to show for it. I will not harm them i22y, I
promised 0r. 3arcy that after I catch one I will release it:.
-Is that so6. Eli2abeth turned her attention to the gentleman who was retying his cravat.
/e gave a solemn nod. -I gave my word to show her how to ma*e a trap and she has given her
word that she will release what she has caught..
-;ell I suppose I shall not *eep you from your sprite hunt,. she said ma*ing a move to turn, -I
am sure 4ane is awa*e by now, try not to agitate the little creature once you've caught it..
-I promise i22y:. Aitty declared earnestly before tugging her older sister's hand, -But you must
stay with us awhile longer, please6.
She would have li*ed to decline, however, Aitty and ydia mastered big eyes and pouting long
before they could spea*7 at this point it was useless to resist the utter sweetness of them. -&
moment,. Eli2abeth assented, but the response was enough to garner a cheer from her younger
sister.
-Come, we must hide awhile for surely there is no point in a trap if they can see us:. She
grabbed both Eli2abeth and 0r. 3arcy's hands and tugged them behind a bush, but not before
her older companions e!changed loo*s of bemusement.
ess than five minutes later, the dead leaves hiding the rope crunched and a shrill scream rang
into the air.
&ll three of the bush's occupants peered out between the leaves.
Aitty's eyes were wide with e!citement while 0r. 3arcy and Eli2abeth were a mi! of confusion
and surprise, but their e!pressions were only matched by 0iss Bingley's loo* of pure horror as
she dangled upside down by her an*le.
0r. 3arcy managed to muffle his snort of amusement and Eli2abeth contained the laugh that
threatened to spill, but, Aitty loo*ed appalled as she murmured in question#
-0iss Bingley is not a sprite is she6.
.
Chapter fifteen
.
3arcy found himself in a rather curious situation.
&s a man not generally inclined to sociali2e7 he was often found stal*ing the ballrooms or
parlors with an e!pression that e!uded either haughty civility or thinly veiled boredom.
/e was never found to attempt conversation with anyone beyond his circle and would never
own to showing more e!pression than the two already stated. /owever, this particular
circumstance called for different behavior and therefore a different 3arcy.
If the ton were to see him thusly, those vying for him in the marriage mart would be so
disillusioned they would assume this was not the solemn and grave 1it2william 3arcy they had
set their cap upon and would abandon any such notions of trying to entrap him.
(o fashionable gentleman and certainly not the severe 0r. 3arcy would be caught wal*ing
unsteadily on his feet due to the laughter that refused to subdue as he accompanied two young
ladies that, compared to the company of upper ondon Society, were as rich as church mice.
"he very idea of a rela!ed, laughing 3arcy was unimaginable and laughable on its own.
But he was socially aw*ward. (ot a bric*.
-Come, we must away quic*ly in case she is to find us,. Aitty said getting her older companions
to laugh.
-It is no matter, she dangles still..
-0r. ;hite will remove her from the trap, but it shall ta*e some time. I tied the rope quite well on
the branch,. 0r. 3arcy stated, his usual coolness none!istent and his pride for such an
accomplishment ta*ing a quality of boyish e!uberance.
-5h, but if she is a sprite she may very well escape on her own and try and find us:. Aitty
declared, still tugging on the hands of Eli2abeth and 0r. 3arcy as she pulled them away from
the scene of their crime. She was originally e!cited at the prospect that she had ensnared a
sprite, grateful that 0r. 3arcy's trap had wor*ed and overjoyed at finally getting to see the
creature that had her enamored since its discovery.
But then 0iss Bingley had landed in the trap and she was so horrified that she almost burst into
tears at the sight.
Eli2abeth, seeing the familiar glassy loo* her eyes were beginning to ta*e, was quic* to point
out an e!it for them when one of the elderly woodcutters, 0r. ;hite came into view at a
distance, and she proceeded to usher them out of their hiding place before Aitty too* charge of
their escape in fear.
-Aitty, she is not a sprite, simply full of spite,. she declared when Aitty had begun to cry while
from the short distance they had managed, they could hear 0iss Bingley screaming at the
woodcutter to release her from the trap posthaste.
-Be calm 0iss Catherine, I assure you 0iss Bingley is not a sprite..
-But how are you so sure sir6. she as*ed7 her eyes fearful and wide. -;hat if 0iss Bingley is a
sprite6. "he young girl then began to ramble, -But she is awfully rude, and superior and un*ind
and ydia is quite right when she says that she treats 4ane as if she were a servant by ordering
her around. I do not li*e 0iss Bingley, are all sprites li*e her6.
-I have *nown 0iss Bingley for many years and she certainly does not fit the description of a
sprite so you must not worry yourself 0iss Catherine,. declared he with so much self)proclaimed
authority that Eli2abeth snorted.
-5h, but I do not *now this description, there are very few boo*s on sprites in my father's
library+.
-;ell then, I suppose I shall educate you,. he said as he straightened his coat and assumed his
full height. -Sprites are jovial, playful creatures that ta*e pleasure in the beauty of nature..
-;ith many wal*s and dancing, is that correct6. Aitty as*ed carefully, and at her teacher's firm
nod, she brightened once more, the fear flitting from her ga2e to be quic*ly replaced by pea*ing
interest.
-"hey are also spirited and lively..
-5h, but is not 0iss Bingley so, she is certainly lively when she is complaining. But does she not
enjoy wal*s and dancing6.
-She is occupied with other pursuits. (one of which include wal*s as she has often claimed she
is not a great lover of nature..
-But she dances well,. Aitty said, -she was very graceful at the 0eryton &ssembly..
-8es, but sprites do not require a partner to do so..
Aitty gasped in wonderment. -So they twirl and dance on their own6. "urning to her sister, she
e!citedly said, -0y, they are li*e us when we were young.. She turned again to her teacher.
-;hen papa was able and not sequestered in his study with his boo*s or estate business, he
would ta*e us out on wal*s around ongbourn and when he was to rest upon a boulder, my
sisters and brother and I would dance. "hough we had no music and we did not always dance
together..
-"hat is very much the same as a sprite 0iss Catherine..
-5h and do they sing as well 0r. 3arcy6.
-I suppose they should, though I have not been fortunate enough to hear them..
-I thin* they would sound lovely,. Aitty murmured, more to herself than to her companions as
she grew more lost in her thoughts before she quic*ly snapped bac* into reality and as*ed,
-"hen sir, 0iss Bingley is not a sprite6.
-(o, 0iss Catherine, she is not. I thin* you and your sisters would be better sprites if I am
wrong..
"his seemed li*e the right thing to say as she brightened significantly and went from dragging
Eli2abeth and 0r. 3arcy to s*ipping merrily ahead of them. "urning to loo* at her sister, Aitty
flashed her a smile, -i22y, did you hear, 0r. 3arcy said we would ma*e better sprites..
-8es, that was very *ind of him. /owever, I am more concerned about your promise to me..
-=romise6.
-8es indeed, did you not promise me you would release what you caught6.
-5nly if it were a sprite 0iss Eli2abeth,. 0r. 3arcy interjected, -and 0iss Bingley is no sprite..
-(o,. Aitty said sha*ing her head vehemently in agreement, -she is simply full of spite..
&t this Eli2abeth rolled her eyes good)naturedly. -8ou listen to me far more than you should
Aitty, and you 0r. 3arcy are a terrible influence..
"his accusation only earned her an innocent loo* from both parties.
.
-/ow tedious he sounds,. ydia grumbled as she stood from her chair by the window to grab the
letter 0ary had read aloud to them.
In a deep, raspy voice she reiterated, -<under the guiding hand of the Right -onorable &ady
$atherine De "ourgh , widow of %ir &ewis De "ourgh , that I repair the damage done to our
families. /e has all but said that it was not his decision to try and repair anything. It is li*ely that
he is only doing this to please >the Right and -onorable &ady $atherine De "ourgh +, foolish
man..
-/e does sound rather pompous,. Ben agreed from beneath layers of blan*ets in a voice
strained from coughing and slightly nasally from his growing cold.
-/e did not even mention you Benny,. she continued, -/ow the man ve!es me..
-8ou really are mama's daughter ydia. 8ou have not even met the man and you are already
disli*ing him so strongly based nothing more than on a single letter albeit a very poorly written
one..
-8ou cannot be defending him 0ary..
-I am merely saying that you should not judge so quic*ly. /ave you not learnt your lesson from
judging 0r. 3arcy so harshly6.
She blushed hotly in embarrassment. -I was only wrong about 0r. 3arcy because he refused to
ac*nowledge me. 8ou *now that I do not li*e people who are so quiet and grave as he, that is
why I do not get along with you so well:.
-"hat may be so, but there may be a reason for 0r. Collins' rather odious letter..
-&ha: So you admit that he appears as horrible as I thin* him to be6.
0ary rolled her eyes and said flatly, -/e writes as if my brother does not e!ist and I will not
stand for it. /owever, he has also said that he wants peace and we should at least give him the
opportunity to do so..
-&nd if he is only here to pretend Benny is not heir and that he is to inherit ongbourn6.
-"hen we shall ensure that we do 4ane proud by pretending he is not so cruel and that we do
not embarrass our family as you thin* he will..
ydia appeared to approve of this, though it was no secret that she preferred to ma*e Eli2abeth
proud by ensuring 0r. Collins never returned to ongbourn. /owever, she was already informed
by her father that committing anything against their relative would send her to the nunnery no
matter what she or her mother would argue.
She quit the room soon after a maid entered her brother's room to inform them that 0iss ucas
was here to call on her, leaving the Bennet twins to themselves.
=eering over the blan*ets that were piled atop him, Ben declared, -8ou are not marrying him
0ary..
-Aitty will be out in the wood or here to *eep you company and ydia will ta*e calls with mama
as often as may be. ;ithout 4ane or i22y here, only I am left..
-But you cannot marry him..
-It is precautionary Ben, if 0r. Collins does not at least li*e our family he could turn us away
immediately after father's demise..
-&s well as mine,. he reminded, -I am not dead yet..
-(o, but if you were to pass,. her firm voice suddenly crac*ed and her eyes fell down from his
face to the blan*ets on the bed. -Someone needs to ensure we do not end up in the hedgerows.
4ane will not be sacrificed and i22y will not be forced down the alter. &t least if I marry him, I
will not be a burden on anyone but him..
& heavy silence engulfed the room.
-I do not li*e the idea of dying,. Ben murmured, -I do not li*e the idea of leaving my family
behind to fend without me. I do not li*e the idea at all.. "hough his voice was still rough and
pained, his words belied his conviction, -But what I do not li*e more is *nowing that if I die, the
burden I once carried will pass to my sisters and I love them far too much to leave them thusly.
1or the sa*e of my family, I cannot afford to die so I promise that I shall not..
-8ou cannot promise such a thing..
-(o. But I will anyway. ,od has never failed to allow me to fulfill the promises I ma*e. If you do
not have faith in me, at least have faith in /im..
.
By five o'cloc* the ladies of (etherfield retired to dress and Eli2abeth was summoned to dinner.
"o the civil inquiries that poured in her answers were unfavorable as her sister was still unwell.
&t this admission, 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst uttered how unfortunate this was and they
repeated three or four times how they did not li*e being sic* themselves before this line of
conversation was dropped and they thought no more of the matter.
0r. Bingley, however, remained concerned as he leaned slightly to see her from beside 0r.
/urst.
-/as not the droughts been to any effect6 Is she better at least, or has she appeared to be
worse6 Shall I call for the apothecary to attend to her6.
/is constant questioning and the worry evident in his brown eyed ga2e gave Eli2abeth way to
give him a wary smile as she replied, -She has improved slightly so the need for 0r. 4ones is
unnecessary. She merely requires rest, but I than* you for your concern 0r. Bingley..
Before he could respond, 0rs. /urst began a new topic of conversation, -3o you not thin* it so
very droll to be in the country6. as if Eli2abeth were not present and that the topic of 4ane's
illness was never spo*en of. -;hy, no shops and no interesting company @ aside from 0iss
Bennet of course, but as she is ill she can hardly be counted..
/er brother loo*ed effectively embarrassed by his sister's words, but it was 0r. 3arcy who
spo*e, -It is not "own madam, you can hardly e!pect there to be a variety you are used to..
-But is it not too much to e!pect a good store 0r. 3arcy6 ;e are merely a day's travel from
ondon after all..
-(ow ouisa, do not be silly,. 0iss Bingley joined, feigning offense, -Such a bac*water place as
this can hardly be e!pected to e!hibit any of the finery of ondon..
-8ou must own 0rs. /urst that there is some beauty to the country that is not present in a place
li*e ondon,. the gentleman answered.
-8es, but rustic charm can do nothing for savagery..
Eli2abeth, despite *nowing what the cause of 0iss Bingley's solid disli*e of her home county
was growing increasingly annoyed with the superior behavior of the sisters and the utter irony of
their words. If she was to be considered savage than 0iss Bingley and her sister were truly
unfortunate.
,iving her hostess a smile, she said sweetly, -I am sorry you feel that way 0iss Bingley, but is
not the untamed nature of /ertfordshire appealing beside the rustic charm of the country6.
0iss Bingley raised her chin. -Savagery complimenting savagery, I certainly cannot e!pect any
less..
-=erhaps you are simply in need of a new+perspective,. Eli2abeth ventured to say.
"his statement made 0iss Bingley's eyes narrow as the color in her chee*s seemed to increase
e!ponentially, her thoughts obviously going towards her little predicament earlier that day for it
certainly offered a new perspective on the ground+
0r. 3arcy's lip twitched slightly and he had to suppress the increasing smile as 0r. Bingley
agreed with their guest, -0iss Eli2abeth is quite right Caroline, perhaps you need only commune
with nature in order to enjoy the country more..
-&nd how, pray am I to >commune' with nature6. 0iss Bingley demanded7 her flush growing
hotter upon her chee*s as she choose to temper embarrassment with anger.
,rasping blindly to try and appease his sister and silence her in some way, 0r. Bingley spotted
a tree just outside the window loo*ing aged and beautiful with its flame colored leaves curling in
the bree2e.
-Enjoy the trees,. he declared, -they are lovely this time of the year..
Eli2abeth could not resist the urge to pee* at 0r. 3arcy from under her lashes as she too* a sip
of the soup.
1eeling her ga2e upon him, 0r. 3arcy fa*ed a cough.
.
5nce 0iss Eli2abeth departed to see how her sister fared, 0iss Bingley pronouncing how bad
her manners were which was only made worse for she lac*ed in style, conversation and beauty
and in short had absolutely nothing to recommend her.
0rs. /urst agreed heartily with her sibling's observation and the two ladies amused themselves
further#
-3o you not remember her dress this morning6 Si! inches deep in mud: She should have been
ashamed for appearing in company thusly and yet she acted with such an air of importance that
can certainly be seen as impertinence. I feel so very sorry for 4ane, having a sister such as
Eli2a must be frightfully embarrassing..
"he gentlemen, having been used to their female company tal*ing poorly of practically everyone
they had come into contact with, *ept their peace with only Bingley's *nee jigging under the
table to indicate the aggravation he felt.
;ith the malicious delight of his sisters showing no end as they reached the topic of the
Bennets' less than stellar relations $-&n uncle in Cheapside, how capital:.%, Bingley spat#
-I hardly thin* you should spea* so badly of people you do not *now Caroline, ouisa. 0r.
,ardiner is a perfectly amiable, good man who you should be than*ing with gusto for funding
your impromptu trip to Bath last year..
-Come now Charles, do not flatter the man so, he is in trade for goodness' sa*e..
-&nd where do you thin* our riches come from6. he demanded. -8ou have the audacity to spea*
so ill of their position in life, but yet you so conveniently forget that at one point in our very own
family it started much the same way as well. &ll evening the two of you have gone on endlessly
about how savage it is in the country, and yet the only thing I can find savage at all is your
behavior. If anyone should be ashamed or embarrassed it should be you..
1ollowing the uncharacteristic response, he pushed himself out of his chair and quit the room
leaving a silence in his wa*e.
-"s*, our brother seems to be in a rather vile mood..
-8es, the blame must be laid to his rising earlier than his wont,. 0iss Bingley stated, -but what
did we e!pect of him, the man is irritable when he is not fully rested..
"he two remaining gentlemen e!changed eye)rolls before 3arcy followed his friend.
0r. /urst swallowed a sigh with the crimson liquid of wine he tipped into his mouth. Idly he
noted how he would need the whole bottle to get through the rest of the evening alone with his
wife and sister)in)law.
&h, the joys of matrimony.
.
3arcy shut the door to Bingley's study and stood before it with arms folded and jaw clenched.
& few feet away, Bingley paced li*e a creature in a cage. "he gentleman only paused to fill a
glass with brandy before he emptied it in one gulp before commencing again.
Steady tic*s of the cloc* on the des* were the only sounds to be heard other than his footfalls
before his companion choose to spea*, -I imagine that you have finally gotten around to reading
the letter6.
-Ignorance truly is bliss,. Bingley answered with an edge as he continued to pace, -whoever
your informant is, his ability to receive information is astounding..
-She is a thorough young lady..
-I can have no doubt about that.. Bingley paused and loo*ed to his friend before repeating
somewhat incredulously, -%he6.
-0y cousin &nne, her mother's clergyman is the benefactor of the claim on ongbourn..
/e shoo* his head with disbelief. -"he amount of information she has managed to procure in a
short period of time is ama2ing. 3id you not only send your letter requiring her assistance just
this morning6.
-Indeed, however, your awe is hardly necessary. &pparently this 0r. Collins fellow is in the habit
of spea*ing more than he does thin*ing. (o sense of tact whatsoever as my cousin says. &s*
0r. Collins anything and he will gladly dolly out the information to whoever as*s for it..
-Is he really such an ignorant fool to thin* that it is perfectly alright to spea* of a claim that is not
his until the death of its current heir6.
-/e is under the overwhelming influence of my &unt Catherine7 that in itself should answer your
question..
Bingley pic*ed up the tumbler of brandy again, tipping it so the liquid sloshed into his glass. -0r.
Collins' thoughts on Bennet are almost none!istent, as if he hardly sees him as any form of
obstacle..
-&s it is, 0r. Collins' believes that Bennet will succumb to this trifle cold and I have no doubt
ady Catherine has encouraged his thoughts on the matter..
-&nd what thin* you6.
-I as*ed Bennet's young sister 0iss Catherine how her brother does7 she has said that Bennet
is faring as well as he could be. She does not appear at all worried by her brother's sic*ness
and has said that when Bennet was younger, he would often catch with such ills and it is nothing
that he cannot overcome..
& cautious sigh of relief left Bingley.
-;ould it be too early to say that 0iss Bennet would have no need to attempt to entrap me then
if her brother were well6.
It was 3arcy's turn to sigh, though it was more a puff of air hissing past his lips. -8ou and I both
*now it ma*es no difference what Bennet's health is li*e, you are not one to ta*e ill often and yet
you have already seen one of your sisters marry for monetary advantage..
-But what if monetary advantage did not matter to 0iss Bennet6.
-8ou cannot *now that Bingley. /er behavior is hardly telling of any specific regard towards you
that to rush headfirst would be foolish. Besides, you hardly *now her..
-;ell cannot I try and ascertain if some sort of feeling is mutually returned6.
-Bingley ).
-3o not mista*e me 3arce, I will not shower her with attention ).
-&s you had during dinner,. he interrupted, -;hy, 0iss Bennet was not even present and you
have already flattered her in heaps to state your esteem fully to her favorite sister..
-It can only flatter me if 0iss Eli2abeth spea*s well of me to 0iss Bennet..
-Bingley, what on earth are you planning6.
-Since I cannot determine whether she feels deeply for me despite our short acquaintance, is
there anything wrong with wanting to *now whether or not we are at least compatible6.
/is friend's raised brow in question spurned Bingley on, -I have always said that I wanted a wife
that was productive and generous and *ind, if I can discover if 0iss Bennet has such qualities
and that we have things in common, surely then it would not be terribly wrong to marry for a little
less than love6.
Catching the determined gleam in Bingley's eyes, he shoo* his head.
-"here is no use in dissuading you. If you are set in discerning whether 0iss Bennet is worth
pursing, it is your tas* to fulfill. /owever, as Bennet is not here to claim protection over his
sibling I will act in his place and warn you that should your attention or affection waver, you will
have a whole horde of angry young ladies on your hands..
-I already deal with less than tolerable sisters,. Bingley reminded flatly, -I would never thin* to
add a whole family..
.
By the time they returned from their interview, activity had moved to the drawing room where
both gentlemen were given respite as only /urst was in attendance, comfortably asleep on the
sofa. (ot willing to test their good fortune, neither 3arcy nor Bingley attempted to discover the
presence of the missing ladies, preferring to salvage the remainder of their evening instead.
&s the cloc* declared seven, 0rs. /urst and 0iss Bingley reappeared and all members
congregated to the card tables including /urst who awo*e at the usual harping of his wife and
sister)in)law when they entered the room.
"he cloc* indicated an hour and their guest returned below stairs to join them, Bingley inquiring
about her sister's health to the subtle eye roll of his friend.
Eli2abeth found that her decision to forgo sleep for a few more hours was a poorly made one as
0iss Bingley immediately thought it prudent to include in her in their game of loo. /aving
discovered too late that her company was playing quite high, she withdrew from the game soon
after entering it.
-;hy 0iss Eli2a, do you not li*e the strategic form of this game6.
-5h no I enjoy such past times, however, it seems that I am not,. Eli2abeth paused, carefully
choosing her words, -equipped for such a game and I do not wish to impede on your
amusement..
/er family, though generally wealthier than their neighbors, did not gamble with the amount of
money the party in (etherfield did and certainly not with Eli2abeth's rather poor hand with cards.
Even if pride would force her to blush at her admission, there was no shame in the truth.
-5h my 0iss Eli2a, how foolish of me,. 0iss Bingley said in feigned dismay. -I am so sorry for
forcing such a question upon you if that is to be your answer. /owever, if you still wish to play I
would gladly offer my purse for our game, if only because I do not wish to estrange you from our
company..
-&s generous as your offer is, my sister and I have already intruded upon your generosity
enough. (o, I shall entertain myself with a boo*..
-3o you wish for me to fetch you some6. 0r. Bingley as*ed. -I am afraid I do not have much of a
collection, however, what I have is completely at your disposal 0iss Eli2abeth..
Before she could politely decline the offer and investigate the neat stac* of boo*s beside the
sofa, 0iss Bingley spo*e up once more, -I am astonished that our father should have left so
small a collection to us, he did not have the foresight to gain such a library as that of
=emberley.. Eyes cast towards the gentleman sitting stiffly beside her, 0iss Bingley practically
purred, -8ou have such a wonderful library 0r. 3arcy..
/e seemed to subtly inch his chair away from 0iss Bingley's before answering, -=emberley's
library is the effort of many generations..
-&nd then you have added so much to it yourself,. she continued following 0r. 3arcy's lead and
inching towards him once more.
Eli2abeth could almost see the movement by ear alone as their chairs scrapped across the floor.
-8ou are always buying boo*s sir..
-I cannot imagine the neglect of a library at a time when there is growing ease to increase it,. he
answered shortly.
-(eglect, oh I am sure the thought is impossible.. "urning her attention now to her brother, she
proclaimed, -Charles, when you purchase your house, I wish it to be as half as delightful as
=emberley. 8ou shall use it as an e!ample for =emberley is a model home. Certainly, nothing
ma*es me happier than to be at =emberley..
-I will buy it myself then if 3arcy will sell it to me..
-I am merely spea*ing of possibilities Charles..
-I thin* Caroline7 that it is more possible to get =emberley by purchase rather than imitation, is
not buying happiness your usual habit6 I am merely learning from you, you are my elder after
all..
"o this conversation, Eli2abeth could only pretend disinterest as she raised her chosen boo*
closer to her ga2e. She had not wanted to pay any attention to the conversation at its start
because to her it was obviously another way for 0iss Bingley to remind her of their different
monetary ran*s, albeit more indirectly.
5r, an arch part of her mind began7 perhaps it was because of 0iss Bingely's blatant flirting with
0r. 3arcy that led to her ignoring most of the conversation.
4ealousy did not loo* good on anyone.
1or a moment, Eli2abeth's eyes fro2e on the words of the page.
Silly girl, what did she have to be jealous of6
.
Chapter si!teen
.
9elieved when 4ane's breathes began to even, Eli2abeth closed the boo* she was reading to
her and leaned over the bed to *iss her sister's forehead. "he heat from her temple was
growing alarmingly warmer and with cautious hope, Eli2abeth thought it was a sign of her fever
brea*ing.
;ith a soft sigh, she rose from the chair at 4ane's side and re)arranged the other amusements
she had entertained her with earlier that evening#
"he hand*erchief 4ane needed to complete was not even a quarter way done with Eli2abeth
tas*ed to it on her behalf, even sic* her older sister was as much a perfectionist demanding her
to redo each thread that was not tightly enough woven into the material.
Eli2abeth could not suppress the smile at her sister's wea*, though strong demands. It was as
much life as 4ane had shown since she caught ill.
"he boo* of sonnets Ben had gifted to Eli2abeth was also cast with the hand*erchief, as 4ane
was rarely idle, having read the poems describing the liveliness of nature made her ache to
leave her sic*bed.
(ot that she or 0r. Bingley permitted it.
& smile, gentle and optimistic, touched her lips as she thought of the (etherfield gentleman.
/e was certainly attentive to her sister's needs, choosing to visit 4ane before he, 0r. 3arcy and
0r. /urst partoo* in nightcaps, offering more blan*ets, boo*s for amusement and a cup of tea
should she desire it. ;ith Eli2abeth, 0r. 3arcy and a maid present, the e!change between the
pair was hardly improper though the amount of attention was certainly enough to garner a
disapproving loo* from 0r. 3arcy.
/er smile dropped slightly at the reminder of the tall, blue)eyed man.
=er 4ane's request about the goings)on below floors, Eli2abeth consented to provide all
information she could including her rather silly thoughts regarding her jealousy towards 0iss
Bingley. It made her blush profusely when 4ane had teasingly rejoiced in her favorite sister
finding a man she li*ed.
-I li*e him fine 4ane, I shall give you that..
-8es, certainly enough to be jealous of a lady that fawns over him,. the older remar*ed archly.
It embarrassed Eli2abeth that she could thin* of no response, however, she could not prevent
herself from musing aloud how utterly preposterous it was to even think of being envious of 0iss
Bingley.
-5h my dear i22y, do you li*e 0r. 3arcy6.
-I li*e him fine 4ane,. she repeated. In truth, Eli2abeth was unsure and the more she thought
about it, the more frustrated she became.
?nfortunately now that 4ane was asleep and no longer a cause of distraction, she was left to the
loud ringing of her thoughts. She paused in her rather unnecessary tidying up of the room.
"his will not do.
5nce again pic*ing up one of the many boo*s 0r. Bingley had offered for the sisters'
amusements, Eli2abeth attempted to pursue it in hopes of quieting her mind.
Banishing the thoughts of how well 0r. 3arcy got on with Aitty and even ydia. /ow ,eorgiana
was so luc*y to have such a generous relation such as he, and how, despite being a
distinguished man of both ran* and fortune, he was not as stiff as she had assumed him to be,
even from ,eorgiana's letters+
Climbing a tree6 Indulging a whimsical young lady's scheme6 &cting li*e a mischievous a little
boy and not a dour, snobby gentleman of ondon society6
oo*ing at him with his carefully done cravat, his aristocratic features and the attire of a
gentleman of ten thousand a year, she would assume he would be an easy fit.
/owever, she remembered the brightness of those shoc*ingly blue eyes that paired
devastatingly with his dar* loc*s. "here was a willing ease hidden behind those eyes, dry wit,
intelligence and generosity painted in blue.
Eli2abeth would not be so prejudiced to believe no gentleman with a fortune would have such
traits, but she doubted any would be so open towards people that have only recently made their
acquaintance7 not when they generally choose to lord over ballrooms as 0r. 3arcy was famous
for by her brother's accounts. ;ith all his material wealth, stri*ing features and what was *nown
of his character, it was not the matrons and hopeful)0rs. 3arcys that sang his praises the
loudest, but ydia and Aitty who proved their words true with each interaction they had with the
man.
"he boo* she chose was snapped shut and she winced in afterthought.
"his boo* is not very interesting, she thought fiercely before she decided that a wal* might clear
her thoughts.
.
;ith a furrowed brow, 3arcy's hand gripped tighter against the instrument as he grasped onto
the mental image and willed it to appear onto the page.
/is fingers rebelled and he made an annoyed sound as he allowed the pencil to slip from his
grasp, roll off the paper and onto the floor. Inhaling sharply, he stared down at the s*etch he had
been composing for the last hour and a half.
/aving seen her dance at the 0eryton &ssembly, 3arcy *new her figure was light and pleasing,
rela!ed and effortless.
/owever, what he had captured was not so.
/er posture was almost rigid as she sat7 as straight as the columns at the entrance of
=emberley. /er dainty feet glimpsed from the hem of her dress7 her left foot pointed while her
right leaned against the left heel7 and her hands holding onto the boo* she had chosen that
evening while they were playing cards were held with firm care, her fingers were curled around
the spine to hold it in place while her free hand was rested on her lap.
But it was her face that held the most interest for him.
"he gentle curve of her chin was jutted out in challenge, but remained tempting to touch as the
sharp angle of her chee* laid a distinct path to where her lips7 usually appearing thin7 were
pressed together in a rosebud as if she were pouting, practically begging to be *issed.
It was taunting to have her image imprinted on that page, and what made it worse was that this
was only a side)profile of her.
3arcy had barely even captured her: /e had not even managed to do her eyes justice. "hey
were as dar* as they were on a first glance, but not anywhere near as fine...
/e agoni2ed over this as he had with the other s*etches he managed to manufacture since her
arrival to (etherfield#
& rough draft of her loo*ing over her shoulder, the wind teasing her hair out of the ribbon further
while those ringlets that stubbornly remained in the confines, curled against the column of her
nec*, mar*ed one of the pages.
"he other was nothing more than a shadow of her, only half of her form visible and so only half
of her drawn. 3espite the little available in the latter, what he had of her appeared ethereal and
dreamli*e+
"his is madness, thought he with a frown, s*etching 0iss Eli2abeth for ,eorgiana should not be
so difficult.
I might as well send what I have to her, he thought as he set the pictures of his subject atop a
neat pile before bending down to collect his fallen pencil. It will have to do for now until I can get
a better view of her.
But that was not the cru! of his problem and he *new it. She was visible to him the whole day,
but every time he tried to recall her enough to draw her, he was simply overwhelmed with other
things.
i*e the fact that her every movement7 wal*ing, tal*ing, reading, sitting, eating7 were done with
such natural grace and quic*ness that 3arcy could not help but thin* that maybe 0iss Eli2abeth
really was a sprite.
&nd if it were not for the most mundane of her actions, it was those blasted eyes of hers.
1ine and dar*, shining in hidden mirth, liveliness, good humor and a certain spar*le that shone
brighter than any jewel 3arcy could fathom to thin* e!isted. "hey would meet his almost
automatically when something occurred and he had the uncanny feeling that they were thin*ing
the same thing.
It ir*ed him that two such things, common and un)e!traordinary in every way, distracted him so.
&nd his damned pencil *ept rolling away from him:
,rowling in agitation, 3arcy was forced to crawl under the small table to reach it and as he
gripped it in victory, a pair of satin slippers appeared in his view along with a circle of gold light7
probably from a candle, he rationali2ed.
"he urge to loo* up was quashed when the holder of the candle murmured into the dar*, -I
wonder who is here+.
0iss Eli2abeth.
She had probably noticed his own candle on the table above him+
;ait. If she was here than that means @
=anic*ed, 3arcy reali2ed his s*etches of her were on the very table he was lying underneath
and he almost swore at the very idea that she would see his wor*. & part of him tried to soothe,
0iss Eli2abeth will not *now you drew them.
"his would usually calm him7 however, his habit of signing his wor* with 1.3 had finally come to
haunt him. 3arcy had no doubt that as the only person in (etherfield with a >3' in their initials,
0iss Eli2abeth would correctly assume it was him.
In his increasing panic, 3arcy did not notice 0iss Eli2abeth stoop to his level, candle in hand.
-0r. 3arcy6.
/is eyes widened to e!ponential proportions.
"heir faces were surprisingly close to one another's, he noted off)handedly.
/er s*in was radiant in the candlelight, an almost invisible dusting of frec*les scattered lightly
across her chee*s as every curve and angle that defined her features tempted him to trace
them with his fingertips. ;ith the glow of the candle in her hand, her hair was aglow about her
head, the dar* brown appeared auburn where the light played in the wisps and yet appeared
blac* against the dar*ness behind her.
/er eyes, just li*e her hair, had seemingly changed color.
3arcy could count every imperfect green glint in her chocolate brown eyes if she gave him the
chance.
Considering her stunted e!pression, she might.
?nfortunately her lips, parted in surprise, morphed into an arch smile as her brows quir*ed in
question.
,ood ords.
If he thought her tempting on paper, she was surely just as more so in real life.
.
"he poor man, thought she in amusement, how uncomfortable he loo*s.
-/ave we moved on from hunting sprites to playing hide)and)go)see* 0r. 3arcy6. Eli2abeth
as*ed.
-I was loo*ing for my pencil,. he answered sheepishly.
-5h I see, and you have been loo*ing the whole night6.
/e loo*ed warily at her. /is habit of hiding his embarrassment behind arrogance allowed a
mas* of emotionless cool to overta*e him and protect whatever pride he could call forth at such
a time as this. -I do not understand your meaning..
-It is much too late to be loo*ing for a pencil, do you not thin*6.
-&nd is it not too late to be e!ploring the library 0iss Eli2abeth6. he countered, not ma*ing a
move to get out from under the table.
She met his tone with the same quir*ed brows as if she could see right through his ploy at
nonchalance. -"ouchE sir,. she answered, -shall I leave you to your pencil then6.
"he mild gesture towards the pencil in his hand was ignored as he replied as coldly as was his
wont in his heightening embarrassment, -8ou need not concern yourself with me..
-"hen I shall not,. Eli2abeth replied in veiled surprise, her eyes narrowing slightly at him before
she stood upright and turned on her heel. ;ell, he could certainly be rude if he wanted to.
;ith her candle in hand, she wandered to the shelves of (etherfield's library. ;hen she planned
for a wal* in the middle of the night, Eli2abeth *new she had few options for a ramble lest she
disturb the occupants of the house. ;ith this in mind, she turned to the one room available to
her# the sparse library of (etherfield.
/er plan for a turnabout the room would have to be disregarded, however, not when 0r. 3arcy
was here.
In fact decorum dictated that one of them leave in order to avoid any unfavorable
circumstances. But Eli2abeth would not quit it, she was feeling too restless and with her
thoughts as they were, she *new that sleep would evade her.
;hat was 0r. 3arcy even doing here6 It was the middle of the night:
& breath left her, sounding li*e a huff even to her own ears.
ess than five minutes before Eli2abeth had been in a state of frustration in her sister's room, on
her wal* to the library she had calmed considerably and was almost enjoying her midnight
ramble and then she entered the library and was dismayed at the discovery of how empty it truly
was sans the boo*shelves.
She was frustrated once again at finding 0r. 3arcy under the table.
&m I ever to thin* about the man without having him mentioned, I teased or he appear6
/er only consolation was the interesting position she had found the gentleman in, and though
the inevitable discourse following her discovery had gone as well as he had hoped, it only
served to confuse Eli2abeth.
"o my sisters he is *ind, attentive and nearly jovial. But he acts so coldly, so rudely to me6 I do
not understand him, and I do not care to. /er body betrayed her as she found herself glancing
his way from the corner of her eye.
0r. 3arcy's tall frame was seated on a chair diagonal to the table he had once hidden under, his
form hunched over several sheets of paper as the pencil he had been retrieving was scratching
onto the surface of the parchment. /is own candle was set on the table, the light illuminating his
furrowed brow as the tip of his tongue pee*ed from the corner of his mouth.
She suddenly felt li*e she was intruding and so without a second thought to his behavior
towards her, she departed despite her earlier resolve.
&s the door closed behind her, 3arcy did not loo* up from a s*etch he began anew,
determination damning the numbness in his hand as he drew until the first lights of dawn.
.
Rosings, ent
Dear %ir,
0s you have responded so favorably to the olive branch of peace I offered you and your family, I
hope it follows that you have no ob3ection to receive me in your home so that I may assure you
of my readiness to make amends.
I shall be e!pected the day after ne)t and plan to stay a se+night which I can do without any
inconvenience as &ady $atherine is far from ob3ecting to my momentary absence from her
service.
I remain dear sir, with respectful compliments to your lady and daughters, your well-wisher and
friend,
4.$
.
-0y dear 0r. Bennet, what on earth did you say to that man6. 0rs. Bennet cried as 0ary
completed reading the missive the following day at brea*fast.
-(othing more than my allowance to ma*e amends,. he answered, stirring his coffee with one
hand as he sifted through the papers with the other. -"his 0r. Collins fellow seems to be a most
conscientious and polite young man, it would not hurt to indulge him and accept this olive)
branch he offers..
-But he is to inherit ongbourn: 0y dear 0r. Bennet, surely you cannot:.
-Come now my dear, it is a trifle as we already have an heir and as such 0r. Collins cannot
claim the estate..
-0r. Collins has not ac*nowledged Benny's e!istence,. Aitty observed. -0r. Collins thinks he has
a claim to ongbourn..
-E!actly my dear Aitty, how smart you are,. her mother praised before once again turning to her
husband, -8ou cannot really allow such a man to enter into our home and invade upon our
hospitality: ;hy, I am sure he is only coming here to comfort himself that our Ben is sic* before
throwing us into the hedgerows:.
-0y dear your dramatics are unnecessary and your nerves will further agitate your son should
you bring your concerns upon him..
-;hy would I do such a thing6.
-Because you already have,. 0ary answered flatly, rereading her essay on 1ordyce, -papa is
merely warning you that further stress upon Benny could be detrimental to his recovery..
-8es, and demanding him to get better will not garner quic*er results,. ydia added.
0rs. Bennet sniffed, turning to her brea*fast dejectedly.
-0y dear do not be upset,. her husband soothed, -your daughters are simply concerned for their
brother..
-&nd I am not6.
-;e *now you are 0ama..
-But Ben requires rest which he cannot have if you barge into his room every hour demanding
him to get better..
0ary gave a wan smile. -"hough it is li*ely that my brother finds it amusing enough not to disli*e
your attention..
-;ell if you girls would simply ma*e yourselves more available to the community gentlemen, I
would not feel it necessary to dote upon your brother as I have:.
-;hy mama, have I not been doing well with the gentlemen6. ydia as*ed, -3id not 0r.
,oulding's son as* to secure a set with me when ne!t there is a ball6 3id not 0r. Brown's
nephew say he is to call6.
-5f course and I did not e!pect anything less of you,. her mother agreed before turning an eye
to her two other girls. -But 0ary, still as somber as ever, and Aitty my dear girl, where on earth
did you disappear to6.
-I was hunting for sprites mama,. answered she with a smile, -I did not find any, but it was a day
well)spent..
-?nless you found a husband while you were out loo*ing for sprites, I heartily disagree,. 0rs.
Bennet responded with a frown.
Aitty did not reply to this, but merely smiled to herself and continued to eat.
-0ama, what e!actly are we going to do about that awful man6. ydia as*ed after a brief
silence.
-I suppose we must be as civil and as accommodating as possible. It will do no good to allow
the man to believe we are not suitable masters of ongbourn,. her mother replied primly.
ydia's face scrunched up in distaste. -&nd must we entertain him mama7 can he not simply
bother the rector at the church6.
-ydia,. 0ary began warningly, echoed by her father's disapproving loo*.
-8ou will be e!pected to behave li*e ladies and proper ones at that, I will have none of your
behavior when he arrives,. 0r. Bennet claimed sending the table into silence before he
continued, -If your brother does not get well, you will have to rely on 0r. Collins *indness
towards our family to ensure you do not end up in the hedgerows. So I demand that your treat
him with as much civility as you can muster..
-8es sir..
-,ood, and if you cannot apply to good behavior on that score, I suggest you ma*e yourself
scarce until his visit is complete.. "he silence continued in the brea*fast room and not even 0rs.
Bennet deigned to spea*. 0r. Bennet affi!ed more lightly, -?ntil your brother is well, you may not
insult 0r. Collins at the brea*fast table, am I understood6.
Slight smiles tugged at their lips as they chorused once more, -8es sir..
/e gave an approving nod before wringing out his papers and reading, pretending that he did
not notice the mischievous loo*s of his two youngest daughters.
.
-/ow is your sister feeling this morning 0iss Eli2abeth6. Bingley as*ed after the usual
pleasantries were completed. "he gentleman ignored the dual eye)rolls of his brother)in)law and
friend.
-She is better sir, her fever bro*e this morning and her coughing has stopped..
Bingley brightened significantly li*e a dog being offered his favorite treat. -I am delighted to hear
that. ;ill she be able to join us below floors6.
-I am sure she would li*e nothing more than to leave her bed, she is not one to be idle for long,.
0iss Eli2abeth said with a fond smile. -/owever, if it is all the same to you, I would li*e to apply
to 0r. 4ones to e!amine her before allowing her to wander..
-5f course, it would be my pleasure. I shall apply to him as soon as the hour is convenient..
She bowed her head in agreement before Bingley engaged her in a different vein of
conversation with only /urst's application for this jam or this fruit or that plate of bread to
interrupt the e!change.
&cross from her, 3arcy did not contribute to the morning repartee and was staring very hard at
the young lady before him.
She loo*ed different in this lighting.
In a way, she appeared just as she had the evening before in the library+ight continued to
play about, dancing in between the twines and setting her dar* hair aflame. S*in, still radiant
and newly *issed by the dawn, practically glowed @ though it was slightly brown due to her
outdoor activity and flushed with pin* as she laughed at something Bingley had said.
3arcy paused. ;hat did Bingley say6
/e tried hard to focus on the conversation, but it seemed his senses were still preoccupied, and
she was only sitting across the table from him: "his is ir*some, he thought with a furrowed brow,
his lips tightening. She cannot affect me so.
-3arcy, is something the matter6.
/is eyes darted to his friend, a single brow popping up to touch his hairline. -(o there is
nothing..
-&re you sure, you loo* most diverted,. Bingley said, the corner of his eyes crin*ling in
amusement.
Sometimes 3arcy really did wish his friend did not *now him so well. /e rolled his eyes as he
responded flatly, -(othing worth mentioning Bingley..
/is mouth twisted slightly, the usual attempt to stop a chuc*le. "he jovial gentleman
automatically translating his friend's reply to# -(othing I can say without you teasing me
mercilessly for it.. ;ell old man whether I *now what has preoccupied you or not, I shall tease
you regardless.
/uffing quietly, 3arcy's eyes eased bac* to the young lady before him and he was ta*en abac*
by her narrowed eyes and pursed lips, and what was worse was the coolness in her ga2e
before it melted as she loo*ed bac* to Bingley.
/is own eyes narrowing, he turned bac* to his plate just as 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst entered
the brea*fast room. &s both ladies pic*ed out food from the sideboard, 0iss Bingley declared, -It
is a beautiful day, do you not thin*6.
(o one replied so she continued, -I thin* it would do us well for a turnabout the gardens after we
brea* fast..
-It sounds li*es a marvelous idea: It loo*s as if you have finally decided to enjoy the beauty of
the country, good for you Caroline..
-/ardly Charles, I simply thin* that one must ma*e do with the few amusements available to
them..
-;ell, as pleasant as your scheme sounds I am going to be entertaining 0r. 4ones. 0iss
Eli2abeth tells me that 0iss Bennet is feeling much better but I would not ris* her being out and
about without the approval of the apothecary..
-"hat is understandable7 we would not want 4ane catching ill again though I suppose it leaves
only ouisa, 0r. /urst and 0r. 3arcy then6.
Bingley fa*ed a cough and added rather pointedly, -&nd 0iss Eli2abeth6.
-5h no,. the lady in question answered, -I would much rather be available to 4ane when 0r.
4ones arrives. If he says she is not yet well then I must write to my mother..
Sending 3arcy an apologetic loo* for denying him some sort of escape through the second
oldest Bennet girl, Bingley agreed that this was prudent.
&s 0iss Bingley claimed her seat beside 3arcy, she had to only open her mouth before 3arcy
silenced her with, -I am afraid I must withdraw from today's amusement as well 0iss Bingley, I
have too much correspondence and I fear they must be attended to..
-But 0r. 3arcy, I have barely seen the grounds of (etherfield and you ride so often around the
estate I was hoping you would be so *ind as to show me all the places in which you frequent..
-Caroline, if that is what you wished to do I could easily as* one of the gardeners or woodcutters
to act as a guide. 8es, 0r. ;hite will do perfectly, he would be glad to show you, ouisa and 0r.
/urst around the estate,. Bingley said, nodding to himself as if it were already decided
regardless of the horrified loo*s of ouisa and Caroline at the thought of being led around by a
servant in their own estate.
-8es,. 3arcy agreed rather disinterestedly, -he can show you the trees. 0r. ;hite is acclaimed
here for being very *nowledgeable about them..
Inadvertently, he glanced at 0iss Eli2abeth who caught her lower lip in her teeth just as 0iss
Bingley gave an embarrassed gasp and accidently caused 3arcy to drop the for* in his hand,
jarring the path of food that was impaled on the utensil from 3arcy's mouth to the floor
underneath the table.
-;)what do you mean 0r. 3arcy, I have no particular interest in t)trees,. 0iss Bingley stuttered,
but her response was readily ignored as 0iss Eli2abeth rose from the table and smoothed out
the none!istent creases in the s*irt of her dress, ma*ing a short e!cuse about going to chec* on
her sister before casting another cool loo* at him.
-8ou dropped your for* under the table 0r. 3arcy.. &s she passed she muttered, -I should hope
you do not ta*e all morning to retrieve it..
.
Chapter seventeen
.
,athering the last of the completed correspondence, 3arcy rang for a servant to dispatch it,
leaving him to stare at the empty des* he had occupied in the library. "here was one in his room
he could have easily used, but unfortunately 0iss Bingley was determined to believe that his
e!cuse had no bearing and sent a servant *noc*ing on his door every quarter of an hour with
the same wish to join them.
/e supposed that as his hostess, she was merely doing this to ensure that as her guest, he was
not left wanting.
?nfortunately all he wanted was some peace and quiet, both of which she would not give.
&t least in the library he would not be irritated too often. ;ith his letters completed, he supposed
that a servant would immediately ma*e it *nown to the lady of the house that he was no longer
preoccupied and would readily entertain her attentions when he joined them below floors.
/e had no such wish, but as a guest he had few e!cuses left to ma*e.
Bingley was heaven *new where, most li*ely still attending to the apothecary and the Bennet
sisters, and that left 3arcy starved for any favorable company considering it also made 0iss
Eli2abeth unavailable to him as well.
(ot that he wanted to be in her company.
It was simply because he had yet to send any pictures to ,eorgiana. "hough, it was not
because he lac*ed any. In fact at this present moment, he had set before him li*e a dec* of
flushed cards, her various images loo*ing up at him.
Everything from coy loo*s over her shoulder to absent smiles into the air, her graceful, pleasing
figure as she wal*ed, to the stiff way she sat when she was affronted. /e had all this drawn the
night before when they happened upon each other in the library, all these glimpses he caught
unintentionally suddenly pouring onto page after page.
&nd yet he could not willingly send any of those to his sister.
Especially the first he had completed last night.
It was simply her face as he had seen it in the candlelight @ lips parted in surprise, hair afire and
untidy, brows arched accenting the asymmetrical form of her face and her eyes, wide with
surprise and abla2e with the glow of the tiny flic*ering ember she clung to in the dar* of the
library +
/e had finally captured her eyes.
She was not perfect, not the most handsome woman he had ever *nown, but there was
something about this portrait that he could not part from. In fact none of them he would part with
if he could.
,eorgiana was a patient girl and she had written to teasingly tell him so+
!ou promised me a picture of &i''y and I have been so saddened that your letters do not bare
them. 0s happy as I am to hear of you and your adventures at 1etherfield, I do so wish you
would comply with our deal. Does it no longer stand5 do you no longer like /o'art.
I must confess that I have played him so often since you agreed to my scheme that Richard is
entreating for more "ach and "eethoven and the like and you know he has no taste when it
comes to music.
6lease brother, will you not send one.
/e could not deny her though he found that he was still loathed to part with any of them and that
the first draft was the easiest to dispose of because his later ones were a much better portrayal.
8et still it had caused an unnecessary amount of wincing to fold her picture to fit into the
envelope, as it did the reali2ation that he had no need to draw her further+
;hat to do with the remaining pieces of wor*6 ,lancing at the pages with the fine eyes
embossed on every single one, however, poor of an imitation it was to the reality7 even if the
real thing was currently shining nothing but ice in his direction+
/e was used to sharing loo*s with her since their meeting and her eyes always spo*e of
friendliness and a sense of shared understanding, but now her ga2e was cool and guarded as if
she were not sure what to ma*e of him.
But what did I do6
1or the past hour that he had been occupied with correspondence, he had pondered on the
question and found nothing that he had possibly done to injure her, and the conclusion that he
was not at fault for her cold behavior towards him made him agitated.
,athering the portraits of the lady, 3arcy tuc*ed them once more into a novel he had brought
with him from =emberley# "he complete wor*s of Sha*espeare's "ragedies, before he began to
pace in hopes that the remainder of his sudden energy would dissipate with the movement.
Instead he found himself standing at the window, staring down at the garden where, at some
distance off, 0iss Eli2abeth rambled.
.
Bingley was pacing.
It was more 3arcy's habit than his, but he admitted in its effectiveness to vent frustration.
0r. 4ones said that 0iss Bennet would feel as if she were getting better and would say so,
however, she would not feel better for long and that the fever would return in double measure.
Bennet, 0r. 4ones had mentioned, was doing just as badly with no interlude of repose. /e
claimed that there was little he could recommend either patient and apologised for his limited
assistance.
Bingley did not li*e this feeling of helplessness and had written for someone in ondon in hopes
that a town physician would be able to offer more.
Still, with the letter written and sent, he felt restless and so he paced.
/e had paced in the library, but grew just as depressed seeing the empty shelves, and then he
had ta*en to pacing in his study which only served to ma*e him impatient with the response of
the physician he contacted. /is last resort was the hallways of (etherfield, and though the
house was a large one, he found himself pacing only outside 0iss Bennet's door.
Internally he argued that he was merely worried for her health and wanted to ensure that if his
assistance was required, it was readily available.
But he also heard 3arcy's argument that he *new nothing of the young lady behind the door and
that it would be foolish to thin* himself in love with her when all she had done was stay in his
home. 1rustrated, Bingley leaned against the wall and threw his head bac* to ward off the
headache slowly descending upon him.
?ntil of course, the >wall' opened and the maid he had assigned to 0iss Bennet's care stared
down at him from his position, flat on his bac*, on the floor of his guest's room.
.
Eli2abeth was not inclined to be outdoors this morning, as odd as it was. But 4ane had insisted
that being idle at her side would only frustrate them both, and if 0iss Bingley were right about
anything it was that being in the company of a young lady for hours would only result in them
hating each other forever due to boredom. "hough she was merely teasing, she declared that
there was some truth to the overdramatic words of their hostess.
Earlier, 0r. 4ones had e!amined 4ane and had grimaced in worry, before voicing a verdict
Eli2abeth had no intention of li*ing.
/er sister insisted that her headache had subsided and her coughing had stopped, but her
temperature was steadily rising and 0r. 4ones could only prescribe another round of potions to
be ta*en.
0r. Bingley had gladly said that he would house her for the ne!t few days and would thin*
nothing of removing her7 however, it was not 0r. Bingley that Eli2abeth thought of when the
news was given, but rather her mother.
&fter sending a strongly worded note to home that insisted on 0rs. Bennet's presence to see
the damage she had done with her scheming, the note was answered curtly#
6eople do not die from trifle colds, your sister has a strong constitution and the apothecary is
merely taking precaution towards her getting ill at such a time when she is most vulnerable. Do
not fret &i''y5 9ane shall be well soon enough.
"here was nothing further to be said of the matter and Eli2abeth was furious. She was angry
that neither her mother nor her father had made any attempt to see 4ane, and she had seen
none of her sisters or brother either.
=lopping down on a roc* when her feet grew tired of her stomping, she sighed into her hands
though it sounded li*e a strained sob. She felt alone here in (etherfield, not that she e!pected
anything less considering she was nothing more than an interloper. But she was so used to the
loudness of her siblings, tal*ing or laughing or fighting, she missed the familiar presence of her
many family members and even with 4ane here, it felt oddly cold.
9estlessly, she leaned against the tree behind her and sighed, rubbing her hand over her face
as she tried to thin* of something to do with herself.
0r. Bingley had disappeared with 0r. 4ones to discuss something or other, and Eli2abeth had
no idea if any of her siblings would intend to visit today. "here was always the company of the
(etherfield ladies, the diffident 0r. /urst and 0r. 3arcy+
She frowned. (o. I would much rather stay here by myself than ris* more confusion with his
presence.
"he music room was an option as (etherfield had a lovely instrument that Eli2abeth was sure
both 0ary and ,eorgiana would praise and then play for hours, but she was not a musician
herself and would merely play scales until an hour would pass. =laying the pianoforte, however,
held little appeal despite the opportunity to pass an hour or two by7 she had too much energy to
garner the patience to practice.
"he library was also out of the question, with no boo*s in its shelves, the empty room only
served to depress her. (ot to mention a servant had told 0iss Bingley that 0r. 3arcy would no
longer be in his room, and had therefore ta*en temporary residence in the library.
&t the time, 0iss Bingley was willing to forgo the plan for a day outside to being in 0r. 3arcy's
company, but 0r. /urst was surprisingly insistent on being shown the grounds.
"he usually silent gentleman claimed that if he wanted to *eep up with 3arcy, Bingley and
Bennet $-;hen he should deign to entertain us with his poor shot..%, he would need an edge
over them due to his older age, and what better way to do that than to *now the area in which
his prey would roam6
"he idea of going home to see her family held the highest appeal then, for none of the rooms in
(etherfield or its occupants she could thin* of, could lift her from her sudden homesic*ness.
&bruptly getting to her feet with a new sense of purpose, she found herself once more sitting
down as &chilles met her with a neigh.
Surprised at the arrival of the stallion, she leaned into the tree and stared wide)eyed at the huge
horse before her. She had not seen him since her arrival to (etherfield and the reminder of how
large and fearsome he was stood before her.
Something clic*ed in her mind when &chilles tilted his head at her in confusion before he huffed
and po*ed her with his nose as if to say, -;hat are you doing6 ;hy are you acting scared of
me6 3o we really need to go through this again6.
;ith a wary chuc*le, Eli2abeth raised her hand to ward him off, but he nu22led into her palm,
mar*ing her laugh.
-&chilles, what brings you out here all by yourself6. She noted that the horse was saddled, but
the seat loo*ed worn and tattered, and according to 0r. 3arcy's horse, very uncomfortable by
the way &chilles was trying to sha*e it off somehow.
-;ere you going for a ride with your master6.
/e huffed, the very idea impossible. -3o you not see the poor quality I am to be ridden with6.
"he horse silently demanded.
-"hen where is your rider &chilles6.
"he horse made a motion with its head before it grew bored with the conversation and
wandered towards a bush with berries, sniffing it curiously.
-&chilles, no, get bac* here,. she ordered, pulling onto the reins to get his attention. -;here is
your rider, you did not throw him off when he was e!ercising you, did you6.
/e huffed again and Eli2abeth had a snea*ing suspicion that he did just that.
& few feet away, bac* on the trail of the garden, 0iss Bingley gave a delighted laugh at
something and just as she appeared to Eli2abeth from where she stood, so did her three
companions 0rs. /urst, 0r. /urst and 0r. 3arcy.
.
Bingley found himself in a most curious situation. &nd considering his history of almost)
entrapments, he had been faced with many, but this was certainly a curious one.
&fter his aw*ward entrance into 0iss Bennet's room, he had jumped to his feet with
embarrassed apologies and an outright lie of an e!planation $something about him feeling
slightly ill himself%.
/e was surprised to find 0iss Bennet sitting against the pillows, various blan*ets piled neatly
atop her with embroidery in hand as she loo*ed up at him in confusion and then complete
distress as she heard his reason for lying on the floor.
-(o, no 0iss Bennet, I assure you it is not your fault. It is simply getting chilly here and I+well, it
is not your fault,. he evaded, trying to soothe her and escape his lie at the same time. "he hot
flush on his chee*s was so prominent against his pale s*in that she really was worried he had
caught ill.
"hough really, how she could spare worry over him, he could not entirely understand.
1rom the almost empty pitcher of water at 0iss Bennet's side, it was obvious she was
dehydrated and feeling feverish still with a sheen of sweat dampening her face. /er s*in was
paler than he had ever seen it, completely devoid of any colour other than an almost sic*ly
yellow underlying it. /er eyes, usually clear and spar*ling were clouded with red from either too
much sleep or lac* of it. "he rings below her eyes were heavy with e!haustion and so Bingley
e!pressed his concern over her activity despite it being just the embroidering of a hand*erchief.
-I am sorry sir, I *now I should be resting but I have been idle these past days and I am
rather+that is to say.. She blushed either from her sic*ness or her embarrassment, Bingley was
unsure, but he found the blossom of color a welcome and beautiful addition to her pale face.
-Bored6. he offered with a grin. -I can understand. (o one li*es to remain indisposed for such a
time as you have, though I am afraid I must insist you rest..
-I have been resting sir, I have only just wo*en..
,lancing at the maid, who stood at 0iss Bennet's right, being ignored as she offered the lady a
glass of water, she deigned to give him a nod of confirmation before clearing her throat to gain
0iss Bennet's attention.
"he maid refused to hand the glass over so 0iss Bennet sighed and was forced to tilt her head
bac* to drin*, a drop of water slipping past her lips and traveling down her chin, following the
curve of her nec* and into her+
Bingley snapped his eyes to attention.
(o. Bad. ?ngentlemanly. (o.
She reached a hand to gently wipe her lips before giving him a slight smile. -=lease sir, I
promise I will not e!ert myself..
-"hen I assume you will behave li*e a good young lady and rest soon after6.
She gave him an appreciative smile. -5f course 0r. Bingley,. said she, -anything to repay you
for your *indness towards me and my sister..
& part of his mind as*ed e!citedly, -&nything6.
.
&chilles grew disinterested in the bush with the berries and turned bac* to e!amine Eli2abeth,
nudging her shoulder to gain her attention only to be ignored due to a young woman dressed in
orange.
-5h 0iss Eli2abeth, I did not *now you were out here as well,. 0iss Bingley greeted. -I trust 0r.
4ones' e!amination was favorable6.
-I am afraid not, 0r. 4ones believes it is a sign for something worse as her fever seems to be
suddenly increasing..
-5h my, how is dear 4ane then6 ;hy have you left her6.
-She did not want me near her,. she answered clearing her throat and loo*ing anywhere but
their faces, -4ane does not want me catching ill either and,. she paused before adding
somewhat hesitantly, -my mother has yet to respond to my note, and I was loo*ing for either you
or 0r. Bingley..
-;ell if it is to as* if 4ane may stay, then I am sure you *now the answer. I daresay Charles has
already given such permission..
Eli2abeth felt herself softening to her hostess and her sister at the determined loo*s they wore
for certainly they cared, at least a little, for the welfare of 4ane. -I than* you, but I was wondering
if I may perchance ma*e use of your carriage. I want to ensure my mother received the note
and I wish to be bac* here soon after in case 4ane is in need of me..
-I suppose it is certainly more intelligent than traipsing about for the ne!t few miles.. She
nodded to herself. -I shall arrange it as soon as we return from our wal*.. She made a move to
turn, but as her arm was being held by 0r. 3arcy, and the gentleman had yet to move, she
could not leave, and as 0r. /urst and his wife had wal*ed behind them, they did not move
either.
-;hy is &chilles out here6. 3arcy as*ed her, as if 0iss Eli2abeth had ta*en his horse out for a
wal*.
-I do not *now,. she immediately defended, -he happened upon me in my search for 0iss
Bingley..
3ropping the aforementioned lady's arm, 3arcy wal*ed towards them and loo*ed at &chilles
who was standing behind her as if his horse was using her as a shield. /is eyes quic*ly
scanned the horse, and spotting the saddle on his bac*, his eyes narrowed.
-;ho has ta*en you out6.
1or a moment he felt a flush of embarrassment for as*ing his horse as if he e!pected to be
answered, but 3arcy suppressed it and then turned to loo* at 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst in
silent demand as to why his horse was outside without his permission.
0iss Bingley managed to smile cheerfully under his unwavering stare. -5h, why, since you were
busy with correspondence 0r. 3arcy, I was worried for your horse you see. I *now how devoted
you are to him, and only wished for him to be properly e!ercised for when ne!t you need him so
I enlisted a stable)hand to do so..
Both 3arcy and /urst *new that she had only done such a thing in order to ensure 3arcy would
join them for a wal* instead of riding around on his horse once his correspondence was
complete.
-&nd where is the stable)hand6.
-I do not *now..
0iss Eli2abeth cleared her throat beside him and answered, -I thin* he may have fallen.. She
turned towards &chilles so her bac* was to the others as she as*ed, -;here did you leave
him6.
/e made a slightly bored motion with his head behind him and 3arcy gave a frustrated sigh.
-/urst,. 3arcy said, -would you mind as*ing Bingley if he would send a servant to visit
ongbourn to ensure 0rs. Bennet has received 0iss Eli2abeth's note6.
"he older gentleman nodded before offering his arm to his sister)in)law $though she resisted%
and dragging both his wife and 0iss Bingley towards the house.
;hile /urst managed to rid them of the ladies, 3arcy turned to 0iss Eli2abeth and said, -I thin*
it would be best if you return to the house with them..
-&nd why is that sir6 I wish to visit my family as I have already told 0iss Bingley,. she said, her
voice once again defensive. ;ho on earth did this man thin* she was7 someone she could order
about li*e a servant6
-It loo*s li*e it shall rain soon and it would not do for you to catch ill as well as I am sure your
sister has already told you with her dismissal of you at her side..
-It is not going to rain,. she argued, though before she could protest any further a drop of water
plopped down her forehead, flowing gracefully over the contours of her face before resting on
her lip instinctively lic*ing it off. Eli2abeth felt herself blush hotly. ;ell, that was embarrassing.
/e immediately turned away, eyeing &chilles who seemed to snic*er at the e!pression on his
rider's face.
-I need to loo* for the stable)hand my horse has thrown, you need to go bac* inside..
-&s you said sir, it is going to rain soon and I hardly thin* it prudent for you to go loo*ing for
someone now..
/e wanted to yell in frustration. Someone was out there, most probably injured, and she was
more worried about him6
-0iss Eli2abeth as you have said, my horse could have thrown the stable)hand. Someone
needs to loo* for him before the rain truly starts.. It was only dri22ling a little, it barely registered
in his mind how wet the two were becoming. -3o not argue with me 0iss Eli2abeth, your brother
will have my head if I allow you to become ill when I was in a position to stop you. =lease return
to the house..
-&nd am I to allow you, as ,eorgiana's friend, to catch your death when I am in a position to
stop you6.
(either moved for several moments as the rain began to fall more heavily staring at each other
challengingly, waiting for the other to crumble under the other's stare.
5nly a crac*le of thunder managed to brea* their glare on each other as &chilles made a sound
of horror as the s*y dar*ened ominously around them as they stood in the mouth of the forest.
3arcy gave a frustrated sigh and tightened his hold on &chilles' reins, calming him with a stro*e
his nose. -;e are at an impasse 0iss Eli2abeth, and it seems both our siblings will be furious
with us if we continue with this pointless argument further..
-&greed, we shall both go bac* then..
5pening his mouth to argue, she silenced him with a loo*. -;e can send footmen to loo* in the
woods for the stable)hand once we are in the house..
/e could thin* of nothing wrong with the plan and he *new that if he waited a moment longer a
possibly injured man would catch his death along with 0iss Eli2abeth. Shrugging off his great
coat, he threw it over her form and tugged on &chilles' reins as he led them both bac* to the
house.
;ith 0r. 3arcy gripping her wrist to pull her along, Eli2abeth stumbled, but she was than*fully
balanced by the taller gentleman whose coat was currently eating her up, ma*ing her feel
smaller and more dependent on his hold on her. /owever, she could no longer offer more than
half her attention to the coat or the rain around her as 0r. 3arcy found a better grip in her hand.
1ingers wrapped in gloves intertwined as they ran through the rain that began to pour with more
ferocity.Clothes soa*ed through and s*in slic* with water, they managed to get into the safety of
the stables where 0iss Bingley met them with two servants already prepared with blan*ets.
,esturing for them to be attended, 0iss Bingley muttered some orders to her staff before
turning on her heel.
"o his surprise, 0iss Bingley did not remain by his side after the servants led them to a bla2ing
fire while they waited for warm baths to be drawn up, but he shivered appreciatively into the
warmth of the blan*et as he and 0iss Eli2abeth huddled for warmth by the flames.
?n*nown to them, the appearance of 0iss Eli2abeth wrapped in 0r. 3arcy's great coat had
stirred something a*in $or very similar, if not stronger% to jealousy in Caroline and the (etherfield
lady was more determined than ever to ensure that 0r. 3arcy saw her $and only her% as a
possible bride)to)be.
(ot that Caroline was truly worried that 0iss Eli2abeth was any form of competition. Caroline
inwardly scoffed. 5f course not.
But the fact that it was currently 0iss Eli2abeth sitting at 0r. 3arcy's side, in his great coat no
less, was enough of an encouragement to increase her efforts to entrap the gentleman from
3erbyshire.
;al*ing past 4ane's room, Caroline stilled as she heard the laughter from within.
;ith a furrowed brow, she peered through the crac* in the door and found that ouisa and
Charles were currently attending to 4ane. "hey were sitting at some distance away from her, at
her request apparently as Charles was inching closer and closer despite the fact that his chair
was very close to tipping over in his pursuit.
Caroline scowled.
It seems there was more than one Bennet trying to marry higher than she should.
.
Chapter eighteen
.
Eli2abeth shivered beneath the double layer @ the blan*et offered by the servant and the great
coat she still wore of 0r. 3arcy's, who was currently sitting ne!t to her, trembling as she was.
"he (etherfield house*eeper assured them that their hot baths would be ready momentarily.
Confirming that a small search party was sent out for the missing stable)hand &chilles had
gotten rid of, upon 0r. 3arcy's inquiry. Beside her, the gentleman loo*ed considerably less
agitated by the answer, and as the house*eeper left in search of more blan*ets, Eli2abeth
allowed herself to spea*, -8ou are quite worried about that stable)hand, are you not sir6.
/e glanced at her, a flic*er of lightning from the window beside her caught in the blue of his
eyes before he glanced at the fire. 1or a moment he did not answer and inched towards the
flic*ering flames, grabbing an instrument hanging from the fireplace to po*e into the slowly
incinerating wood. -Being thrown from a horse is no laughing matter 0iss Eli2abeth, as you
yourself *now..
-I am sure the stable)hand has more e!perience than a headstrong, wayward child..
0r. 3arcy let out a breath @ though it sounded oddly li*e a chuc*le, as if he were picturing the
headstrong, wayward child that was Eli2abeth Bennet at age ten. -&chilles is not a gentle horse
0iss Eli2abeth as anyone can attest to. /e rarely ta*es to anyone and on some days he refuses
even me. Bennet swears that &chilles was never bro*en in..
-0y brother is always teasing and e!aggerating, he is rather fond of hyperbole. /e probably
made that comment after trying to ride your horse himself..
-(o, not at all, Bennet actually said that after I fell during one of our rides a few days past..
-&chilles threw you6. She as*ed in surprise.
-It is not a new thing, if anything &chilles has grown more considerate over the years..
-/ow can a horse be considerate when throwing his rider6.
-;ell for one &chilles will only thin* of throwing me when he has reason to believe that I have
offended him in some way such as riding directly after a storm or using a horsewhip on him
when the occasion is unnecessary. 1or another, my horse will only throw me when there is
something to soften the blow. "he last time he threw me it was into a stream,. he said with a hint
of a frown, -Bennet was absolutely no help whatsoever..
/er s*epticism bro*e with a suppressed snic*ering as she pictured a soa*ing wet 0r. 3arcy
standing in the middle of a stream with his horse nic*ering off to the side along with Ben and his
horse, 5beron.
In the present though, he frowned openly at her before turning bac* to the fire, po*ing it
incessantly.
-8ou cannot blame my brother than sir, you would have laughed at him too if the roles were
reversed..
"he po*ing at the flames grew less continuous.
-In fact, I am sure you have had many occasions to laugh at Ben more so than he being able to
laugh at you. 0y brother wrote to us that 5beron had thrown him when he was hunting with you,
0r. Bingley and my ?ncle ,ardiner7 apparently his horse deposited him rather ungracefully into
a rosebush. Aitty thin*s that Ben may have refused 5beron some treat or other and he was
merely showing his displeasure,. Eli2abeth recalled with a smile. -5beron and &chilles seem to
be learning from each other I thin*..
-8es, terrible influences the both of them..
3iscreetly, his companion suppressed a shiver. Chancing a glance at her, 3arcy saw the bluing
lips of the lady currently clinging to his great coat.
It was already big enough, his coat, that sitting down with her legs pulled to her side only
caused the article to pool around her. Everything about her seemed infinitely smaller.
-0iss Eli2abeth,. he found himself spea*ing, -I thin* it better to remove my coat as it has done
its job of *eeping you as dry as possible at the start of the storm.. She loo*ed at him almost
blan*ly. -It is only serving to *eep you cold..
But I li*e it, her mind argued.
"here were scents that clung to the coat she wore which was only enhanced by the fact that the
fabric had moistened with the rain, its scent too seemed to be interwoven into the material. She
tried to name each one as a servant helped her to her feet to remove the coat, but she found
that it was hard to do when the aromas were assaulting her all at once.
;hile she was preoccupied with trying to give a name for each smell her brain processed,
3arcy was trying very hard not to loo* at her.
Aeep your eyes on the fire. Aeep your eyes on the fire. 8ou are a gentleman. Aeep your eyes on
the fire.
/er senses were not the only ones distracting her from what she was currently doing for 3arcy
could swear that his mind was playing tric*s on him as he stared into the dancing flames. /e
swore he could see Eli2abeth's form in the bla2e before him as she reluctantly removed his coat
off her shoulders, gingerly allowing the material to slip from her arms and onto the floor in a
soggy, soa*ed heap while she stood practically $but not really, he reminded himself strongly%
na*ed before him.
"hough his coat had *ept most of the rain from reaching her, the material was wet enough that
the water it held spilled onto her dress allowing it to cling and become near transparent+
Before he had forced his eyes to loo* away, a fire from the other side of the *itchen @ an Italian
styled oven that burned with an open flame atop @ caused light to strain against the dress
Eli2abeth wore, allowing more translucency as his eyes seemed to trace the silhouette of her
body.
ight and pleasing indeed+
-0r. 3arcy sir,. the house*eeper greeted from behind him, -your bath is ready for you..
;hen he turned to answer her, he found that Eli @ /iss Eli2abeth returned to her previous spot,
sitting a few feet away from him, trying to balance her cup of hot chocolate while trying to *eep
the blan*ets on her shoulders at the same time.
-Cannot 0iss Eli2abeth go first7 surely I can last longer in the cold than she..
/er eyes flic*ered up from the rim of the cup, a clear challenge to repeat what he just said.
-/er lips are blue 0rs. ,rant,. 0r. 3arcy continued regardless of understanding what her ga2e
spo*e and Eli2abeth tried not to give a frustrated sigh.
/onestly, must this man always get what he demands6
-"hat is why Sarah has given her a warm drin* sir7 her bath is almost done being drawn. It
would have been you with the warm drin* if her bath was drawn first,. 0rs. ,rant, (etherfield's
house*eeper e!plained, and her logic and generosity was more than Eli2abeth could as* for.
-9eally 0r. 3arcy, I am quite content to wait a few moments for my bath to be prepared. I
certainly cannot bathe in your room..
"hough the idea did bring an odd thrill to him+
-<ery well,. he settled, removing the blan*et from around him and handing it to a servant for the
need to be warm was e!tremely unnecessarily at the moment. In fact, a part of him felt li*e he
was overheating. =erhaps he sat too long beside the fire6
Eli2abeth tried not to openly stare.
/is shirt had suffered the same effect as her dress had# clinging transparency.
It was both mortifyingly embarrassing and oddly, she paused+was there a word+6 Eli2abeth
thought, suppressing the flush upon her chee*s as best as she could for the tingly feeling
crawling up her spine could hardly be described as lady)li*e.
& part of her did not seem to care when all she could see was the broadness of his shoulders
and the bunching at his upper arms, and the way his muscles rippled subtly beneath his near)
transparent shirt as he stood from his place by the fire.
She blin*ed in surprise when suddenly his face was very close to hers. -0r. 3arcy6.
/is eyes were more shoc*ingly blue as she had ever seen it especially when his ga2e reflected
the brilliant white from a bolt of lightning strea*ing the s*y from the window behind her. ?nli*e
her, his s*in was far from pale with cold, but almost flushing with color as he stared at her, heat
emitting from him li*e the rays of the sun. &nd she *new he was as warm as he loo*ed too7 for
the hand he reached to properly tug the blan*et securely on her shoulders tingled and even
when the pressure of his touch had faded, the smell and warmth of him had not+
/is hand retracted and he left the close pro!imity of her without a word.
Eli2abeth settled the cup of warm chocolate down on the ground before her with oddly trembling
hands, touching her chee*s cautiously with her fingers.
;arm.
.
Caroline was a determined woman7 what she wanted, she usually got.
ately though, her attempts had been less than fruitful especially when it involved a certain
gentleman from the (orth7 0r. 3arcy seemed to be completely impervious to her tactics. Still,
she had time to get his attention, though she had been trying for many years now, Caroline
comforted herself that 0r. 3arcy favored no woman and so she had no competition for his
attention.
?ntil 0iss Eli2a walt2ed in with her fine eyes and wit. Inwardly she scoffed.
&ny fool can by witty and fine eyes7 well, 0r. 3arcy has probably no idea how fine my eyes are,
she thought as she glared at herself through the mirror, ma*ing her personal maid nervous.
-=ull my hair all the way bac*,. she ordered, -and my eye ma*e)up, use it generously..
-8es miss..
-I need to accent my eyes so you must do it right..
"he young girl gulped.
-(ot a strand of hair is to fall in my face no matter what, ensure it: 3o I ma*e myself clear6.
-8es miss..
-&nd find a dress to match my eyes, the new one I have not worn yet..
-5f course,. the girl stuttered before as*ing cautiously, -Is there a special occasion miss6.
-3o not be impertinent, I already have one person to deal with who suffers from the same
disposition, and unli*e her, I can throw you out by your ears,. she declared, her mouth twisting
into a vicious scowl.
/er personal maid bowed her head quic*ly, stumbling over apologies as she thought to herself#
0iss Bingley was certainly a mistress to be feared, though it would help, the young maid
thought with a wince, if she was not determined to loo* li*e an owl+
.
3arcy was uncertain of very few things.
/e prided himself on *nowledge after all, but human nature can be viewed in so many ways that
being firm in one's opinion regarding a particular trait or characteristic in another could easily be
seen as foolish.
;here one could be considered wea* for thin*ing first of the situation of others rather than
putting oneself first, li*e Bingley for e!ample, it could also be viewed as being naturally
unassuming, generous without pretenses and *ind)hearted. But it was still foolish in 3arcy's
eyes if that person $Bingley% chose to hold too much faith in the good of others that it bordered
on stupidity.
1or goodness' sa*e, how many times does the man have to be almost entrapped for him to
reali2e that he cannot jump into things6
/e gritted his teeth as he watched them from the corner of his eye.
0iss Bennet was presumably feeling better and insisted that she be allowed below floors and
out of the cage that was her room.
Bingley and 0iss Eli2abeth, argument about her fragile state were apparently bro*en with one
loo* of absolute sadness and rejection from the young lady.
"hough 3arcy had to give the eldest Bennet girl some credit, she wandered below floors and
appeared in the parlor loo*ing as if being sent bac* into her room was not an option. She smiled
serenely, greeting everyone and bree2ed in without a second thought. She was no doubt, as
determined as her sister.
"he maid that accompanied $most li*ely chased after her% stood dumbfounded at the door as
did Bingley and 0iss Eli2abeth.
/urst too loo*ed surprised at the young lady's entrance, but did not deign to question her as he
bowed in greeting before 0iss Eli2abeth tried to persuade her to return to her room.
-I cannot i22y, please do not ma*e me,. she murmured quietly, 3arcy only hearing as the card
table was situated close to the door.
-4ane, I cannot allow you to stay down here. It is cold, you may catch ill yet again and you heard
0r. 4ones..
-I *now i22y, but I shall go mad if I am to stay so dull any longer. "ruly, I am quite well. I
promise,. she continued, -if I feel even the slightest bit poorly I shall return to my room
immediately. But I am starved for company dear i22y, and I *now it is selfish, but it is so quiet
and lonely and I have never had to feel that for so long a time as this..
3arcy supposed that with as large a family as the Bennets, her an!iety was not unfounded.
-0iss Bennet, if I may suggest then, please sit by the fire with me so you do not catch the cold,.
Bingley said, appearing at the Bennets side from where he once stood at the opposite end of
the room by the window, already offering the young ladies an arm to guide them to the seat he
rearranged.
She smiled and accepted, and both girls were escorted to the three)seated sofa.
"hat was less than ten minutes ago.
(ow, despite whatever riveting conversation had occurred that earned Bingley a round of
genuine laughter from the young ladies, the trio bro*e off into a duo as 0iss Eli2abeth joined
him and /urst at the card table as they played vingt)un.
"he pair she left behind seemed not to notice her absence as they spo*e quietly, laughing as if
there were no one else in the room and continued to spea* with bowed heads, twin*ling smiles
and dancing eyes. It was almost aw*ward how affectionate the two seemed to be towards each
other with others present.
-I see your sister is doing well,. /urst began, probably catching sight of his clenched jaw.
-4ane is very good at pretending everything is well, it is not in her nature to dwell, not even in
sic*ness..
-Can we allow her to be below floors then in good conscious6. 3arcy as*ed to which she shoo*
her head with a slight smile.
-Convincing her otherwise would not do much good. 4ane is a Bennet, we are frightfully
stubborn..
/urst chuc*led. -&ye, your brother says as much too..
"he reminder of her brother seemed to cause her smile to shrin* as she stared down at her
cards for a moment before spea*ing further, -4ane is different from Ben though, she would do
what she *nows is best which in this case is to stay abed, but it is easier to be li*e Ben and do
what she wants rather than what she needs..
-She is fighting both sic*ness in health and sic*ness in heart,. /urst noted, -I suppose you girls
miss home6.
-& little+.
-"hen it cannot be helped, as long as she rests immediately and does not e!ert herself more so
than she already has than by all means, I thin* 0iss Bennet shall be quite alright to join us,.
/urst said with a sense of jovial finality.
/is words apparently comforted the young lady and she effectively livened up, though she still
watched her sister from the corner of her eye.
"he company of three at the card)table was perfectly content and remained so when 0rs. /urst
joined them after arriving from her toilette. "rouble only started to rouse when 0iss Bingley
entered, in place of a servant, to announce supper.
-I am terribly sorry I have *ept you waiting so long,. she said to seemingly no one in particular,
-but unfortunately my new maid is still rather nervous around me and I needed to give her time
to correctly dress me..
(o one said a word, in fact none of the gentlemen even stood to greet her as propriety dictated
as they were too busy staring7 to ma*e things worse Bingley's mouth was hanging below his
chin.
-Caroline are you...well6.
-5h 4ane: I am so glad that you can join us, we have been craving your good company and
praying so for your good health,. 0iss Bingley greeted the eldest Bennet girl when she noted
her presence, pointedly ignoring 0iss Eli2abeth and her brother.
-I than* you 0iss Bingley,. 0iss Bennet said with une!pected grace before she tactfully added,
-I hope that you are in good health as well6.
-;hy of course 4ane, certainly your good manners are enviable,. she declared, looping her arm
through 0iss Bennet's. -It is truly a marvel indeed that such good breeding could come from a
family such as yours: "he outcome is inspired:.
-5)of course,. 0iss Bennet murmured, caught between confusion and offense.
Since /urst escorted his wife to dinner, and Bingley had trailed after his sister and 0iss Bennet,
3arcy offered an arm to 0iss Eli2abeth who loo*ed li*e she was holding bac* the urge to flinch
as the e!change between 0iss Bingley and her sister was clearly heard for all the servants to
hear.
.
It was hard to loo* away from 0iss Bingley, Eli2abeth thought, than*ful that she had placed her
on the far end of the table where she was not in range for conversation. 0r. /urst, 0rs. /urst
and 0r. Bingley seemed to share the sentiment as they *ept their heads towards their plates.
In between bites, 0r. /urst quietly demanded answers from his wife as to why 0iss Bingley's
eyebrows seemed to be pulled practically to her hairline in an imitation of a perpetually shoc*ed
owl.
-I do not *now,. 0rs. /urst hissed in reply, -she must be using that 1rench crFme she bought. I
specifically remembering the shop*eeper saying that its function is to emphasi2e the largeness
of the eyes and *eep the tautness of the s*in around them to appear younger7 eye beauty if you
will..
-Eye beauty,. her husband repeated, -/eaven forgive us all..
-;hat on earth is she trying to accomplish6. Bingley as*ed more to himself than to anyone else.
Eli2abeth pitied the gentleman for having to deal with such embarrassment, but if anything she
pitied 0r. 3arcy more.
"he tall, blue eyed gentleman was seated $as usual% at 0iss Bingley's right with 4ane on her
other side, an empty chair was placed between her and 0rs. /urst, the married lady sat across
from 0r. /urst, acting as a buffer between her and 0r. 3arcy.
4ane noticed this too and with her close pro!imity to 0iss Bingley and 0r. 3arcy, she was able
to properly see where the gentleman truly stood their hostess.
In most instances she would only ma*e note of any particular regard between people
unintentionally during conversation, but in this case she was loo*ing for evidence of it. By her
sister's behavior since their arrival into (etherfield, 4ane was sure that her sister felt some sort
of esteem towards 0r. 3arcy despite her vehement denials, and as her sister, 4ane wanted the
best for her sibling. ;hat better way than to watch his interactions with others and compare it to
his interactions with Eli2abeth6
&s the first course was served, 4ane had only to hear a minute's conversation between the two
to find that there was a barrier of some sort that *ept the two from really communicating.
Sipping the soup, she wondered if it was because 0iss Bingley seemed to be intent on putting
0r. 3arcy on a pedestal or because 0r. 3arcy simply found 0iss Bingley to be a painful bore.
4udging by his pained e!pression that could be read from beneath his thic* mas* of emotionless
calm, it was li*ely that it was both.
Before 4ane could offer some conversation as reprieve, a servant entered to announce a guest.
-0r. Stewart to see 0iss Bennet..
-5h of course,. 0iss Bingley said as she stood to wave the gentleman in. -8es, please join us
sir, we were just about to tuc* into dinner. I am so glad you were able to accept our invitation to
supper despite the weather, here, there is a space beside 0iss Bennet..
& quic* glance at 0r. Bingley gave it away that he was not part of any invitation offered to the
suitor of his angel, in fact, he loo* confused and angry. In less than a heartbeat, the Bennet girls
e!changed a conscious loo*.
?h)oh.
.
Chapter nineteen
.
1or any gathering to be aw*ward the meeting must be characteri2ed with constant silences and
stilted conversations and such were none!istent with the presence of 0r. Stewart if only
because he had a willingness to hear his own voice.
Beside Eli2abeth, 0r. /urst stabbed multiple holes into a potato. /aving been seated beside
him since her arrival to (etherfield, she *new that he had no mind for the humble spud and
would push it to the edge of his plate, intent on ignoring its very being. It certainly said a lot
when he was willing to pay it any attention whatsoever, even if it was to violently vent.
0r. 3arcy was as silent as ever, and over 0r. /urst's head, Eli2abeth noted his clenched jaw
and a vein protruding on the side of his temple. ;ith a little bit more force than necessary, he
impaled a slice of meat and shoved it into his mouth.
"o contrast his two friends, 0r. Bingley was being more careful than usual with his eating, and
had hardly ta*en a bite in the last five minutes.
5n the other side of the spectrum, 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst bas*ed in the attention and
compliments paid to them by the overly verbose 0r. Stewart.
&ny chance of a reprieve from the man's voice $which everyone else at the table waited for with
baited breath%7 0iss Bingley would set him off once more, her preferred topic to direct him to
being the loveliness of 4ane. "his also seemed to be 0r. Stewart's favorite topic and his vigor
for the subject only increased the amount of words spilling from his mouth.
4ane bore his attention and rambling with the same amount of poise as she always did. She
was sure that 4ane had mastered ignoring the man completely for she loo*ed as serene as
ever.
-It is a shame that your family is not wealthier 0iss Bennet for I am sure there would be endless
lines just to see the grace and beauty embodied by you. uc*ily for me there is an advantage to
your poverty# you would humbly accept any offer made to you..
"he diverted cac*les of the ladies of (etherfield fueled the fire more.
-8es, >tis a pity 4ane is not as rich as we are, but it at least lowers her e!pectations in the
marriage mart. Even you, 0r. Stewart, would be accepted graciously.. "he obvious jab at him
went right over his head as he humbly bowed his head in than*s.
-;ith all due respect,. Eli2abeth spo*e, -if there is any advantage to not being as rich as you
0iss Bingley, it is that if anyone offered for us it would be for no other reason than love..
-ove,. 0rs. /urst chortled, -what a lovely notion that is:.
-;hy how very plebian. It must be lovely living in such a world as whimsical as yours. "ell me
0iss Eli2abeth7 do you and that sister of yours, 0iss Catherine6 Share the same ailment @
delusions6.
0r. /urst stopped his assault on the potatoes to stare dumbfounded, 0r. Bingley immediately
loo*ed up to give his sister a sharp loo* and even the frown on 0r. 3arcy's lips seemed to etch
deeper into his visage, vein threatening to pop.
-/ow sad not only poor, but sic* as well:.
-&h do not fear:. 0r. Stewart jumped in, -;hatever they suffer from 0iss Bennet cannot. /er
beauty and goodness would not allow it, though she has not been as fortunate as you to be
born with more money to her name, I have no doubt that madness eludes her..
4ust as Eli2abeth's mouth shaped into a cutting reply, a servant offering to fill her glass with wine
ended up missing her glass completely and dumping the contents of the bottle onto her lap.
/er sharp gasp and sudden stand from her chair garnered everyone's attention.
-5h my 0iss Eli2a, did you have an accident6.
-I am so sorry miss:.
/er jaw clenched, Eli2abeth quit the supper room.
.
3arcy was at his wits end.
Slight upon slight was given throughout the humiliation of the Bennets $which was not even
disguised as supper at all%, and neither 3arcy nor Bingley could say anything to change it.
Earlier attempts were rebuffed by simply more insults. /elping was not helping if they were
ma*ing it worse and distraction did nothing for even if 0iss Bingley was preoccupied, 0rs. /urst
gladly pic*ed up the gauntlet.
Supper only really consisted of five people# 0r. Stewart @ tal*ing absolute nonsense and
assisting in the embarrassment of the Bennets7 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst @ riling him up
further with obscene comments and jeers aplenty, 0iss Bennet @ sitting in strongly controlled
anger as her face flushed red, and 0iss Eli2abeth @ spitting fire and burning in it too.
&t least there was one upside to this mess and that was the wine. (ot that the one he was
drin*ing was especially superior, but with the way things were going, wine was the only thing
*eeping him sane.
Beside him, 0iss Bingley chattered.
3arcy would need something stronger if this is how he was to spend the evening now that 0iss
Eli2abeth would not be returning, at least according to 0iss Bingley#
-I would be so embarrassed if such a thing happened to me, I would not even dare to show my
face until the evening was done: Considering their state I doubt 0iss Eli2a can afford to waste
another dress..
-I hardly thin* the Bennets are in any financial woe,. 3arcy stated flatly, -they are perfectly well)
off..
-5h yes of course, by their standards..
/e rolled his eyes, and just as 0iss Bingley was going to pursue this topic further, a servant
entered to announce 0iss Eli2abeth.
-;ell,. said he, -she certainly has nerve..
-Indeed,. 0iss Bingley gritted, her eyes narrowing which 3arcy noted, was with difficulty.
It must be that crFme, he thought. /er face was pulling almost painfully tight and he wondered if
the end result would be having her face sag after its removal. But the outcome of 0iss Bingley's
face was forgotten when 0iss Eli2abeth entered his line of sight.
"he nec*line of the dress was high, but oddly tight to emphasi2e the slim structure of her nec*,
the bodice of the dress was also tighter than the one she wore earlier, accentuating the gentle
swell of her breasts and the tightness of her stomach and waist.
/e could easily trace the outline of her body just as easily as he had earlier that evening by the
fireplace, but found himself most displeased by it.
1or one, the young lady loo*ed to be having difficulty breathing7 no doubt the tightness of the
dress and the height of the collar. 1or another, her appearance in this figure)hugging dress was
utterly outrageous and nowhere near ladyli*e at all7 blatantly displaying her physical attributes
for all to see.
&cross the table, 0r. Stewart had finally stopped tal*ing but was now openly staring at 0iss
Eli2abeth.
-5h my,. 0iss Bingley murmured almost directly into his ear, -how uncouth..
;ell she was hardly better. ;hile 0iss Eli2abeth struggled to breathe through the stiffness of
her dress, 0iss Bingley's bosoms were practically hanging out of hers.
-0iss Bingley,. she greeted after everyone was once more seated, -I feel I must than* you for
the adjustments you have done to my dress, however I am afraid to inform you that it is rather
taut+.
-5h nonsense7 taut and trim are all the fashion in ondon,. 0iss Bingley bree2ed, win*ing at
0rs. /urst who chortled.
-8es, I suppose it is the fashion now to be so bold in our choice of attire..
-Certainly, one must be willing to ma*e use of what we are given after all, though in a more
ahem,. 0iss Bingley paused dramatically as if she were thin*ing of the right words, -respectable
manner..
=eople in glass houses should not throw stones.
Eli2abeth flashed a smile regardless of the lady's response and replied, -8ou dropped a carrot in
your dEcolletage..
0rs. /urst's eyes popped out of her head and 0iss Bennet's hand automatically clamped itself
over her mouth to muffle her giggles. Bingley cho*ed on his drin* while /urst almost spit his out
as he laughed, 0r. Stewart's head on the other hand, snapped from one direction into another
to catch a glimpse of 0iss Bingley's bosoms and the carrot that was wedged between it.
& chuc*le escaped 3arcy as he caught the ga2e of 0iss Eli2abeth, and feeling grateful for
saving him from a night of utter torture, raised his glass to her.
She win*ed in reply.
.
"he disastrous dinner was close to its end at least that is what Eli2abeth hoped.
She was still struggling to breath and could hardly ta*e a bite due to how securely her dress
held her. 1or the remainder of supper, she spent it diverting and destroying all attempts to
further humiliate her family and though 0iss Bingley had given up on further verbal attac*s, her
sister and 0r. Stewart had not.
0rs. /urst was not as cruel as her sister and had less motivation to publically debase her than
0iss Bingley had, however, it seemed malicious intent was hereditary for she continued her
taunts and goading.
"hough that would change soon enough for even 4ane had grown tired of this foolishness.
-I thin* it should be made fashionable,. 0r. Stewart was declaring, -I thin* that ladies should be
allowed to wear such dresses for it only highlights their loveliness as it has done with 0iss
Bingley and 0iss Eli2abeth..
Instantly both women cringed.
-I agree:. 0rs. /urst responded, -;hen one is desperate to be wed, one must do everything in
their power to entrap a husband..
4ane surprised them all by adjoining, -I believe the rules of decorum are rather unnecessary in
regards to the dress of a young lady..
-5f course, so you see my meaning 4ane6.
-Indeed.. "urning to 0r. Stewart, she flashed a smile. -3o you not agree sir that a lady should
dress how they wish6.
-8es7 certainly 0iss Bennet:.
Eli2abeth joined the fray, adding, -I thin* it would be lovely being allowed to wear what we wish.
I would so love to be able to wear breaches when I wal*, there would certainly be no need to get
my dress caught in si! inches of mud if I could..
-5h yes, li*e a man's,. 4ane agreed.
-I do not thin* the idea is needed. Certainly not, they would e!pose parts of a woman that
should not be e!posed especially in such a deceptively public way,. 0rs. /urst said, -I thin* it to
be as uncouth as 0iss Eli2abeth's dress, there is absolutely no need for them to hug
everything:.
0r. Stewart argued, -;ell maybe 0rs. /urst, you only need to eat less in order to have no fear
in your clothes hugging everything as you say. I can understand your insecurity in allowing
yourself to wear such radical attire as breaches, but if you had something to show for it li*e 0iss
Eli2abeth and 0iss Bingley, I am sure you would happily embrace the change:.
&t this, 0rs. /urst spluttered indignantly at the insinuation of her overly robust form, but had no
more to say on the matter as 0r. Stewart launched into a feministic tirade on behalf of the young
ladies of England.
.
"he thought of being left alone with 0r. Stewart made the gentlemen overly attached to the
ladies and so s*ipped gin and politics.
-5h yes 0r. 3arcy, there seems to be a letter here for you from =emberley, most li*ely from
0iss 3arcy.. &fter handing the missive to him, 0iss Bingley continued, -5h 0iss 3arcy, she is
such a lovely girl. Is she much grown since the spring6 ;ill she be as tall as I am6.
Eyes on the envelope, 0r. 3arcy too* the empty seat beside Eli2abeth and absentmindedly
replied, -She is now about 0iss Eli2abeth's height, or rather taller..
Startled at the comparison, she as*ed, -Is she not only si!teen6.
-8es, being tall rather runs in our family..
-/ow I long to see her again:. 0iss Bingley shrilled, obviously unhappy about the same
comparison, -I have never met anyone who delighted me as much as she has7 such
countenance, such manners: &nd so accomplished for her age, her performance on the
pianoforte is e!quisite:.
-It surprises me how young ladies have patience to be as accomplished as they all are,. 0r.
Bingley said.
-;hy all ladies accomplished6 Charles, whatever can you mean6.
-8es, all of them7 I have yet to meet a young lady who has been introduced to me as anything
but accomplished..
-;ell then sir, maybe your idea of accomplished is simply too broad,. 4ane said, pressing her
cool hands against her growingly hot chee*s and wondering vaguely why the room was
beginning to spin.
0r. Stewart was eager to voice his agreement, -0iss Bennet is correct, being accomplished is
far more than being able to paint a table or net a purse or cover a screen. 5nly a simpleton
would assume something so ludicrous..
-"hen what can be considered as accomplished6. 0r. Bingley challenged, at his end with being
quietly tolerable of the man.
-& young lady must have a thorough *nowledge of music, singing, dancing, drawing, and must
have a proper grasp on the modern language. &ll this she must possess to even half)deserve
the word.. "he gentleman had moved to place a hand atop the chair as 0r. Bingley stood
directly beside it, both men trying to sta*e a claim over the seated lady.
0r. 3arcy left the note on his lap as Eli2abeth cast aside her teacup, watching the heated
discourse between them with interest as 4ane sat, loo*ing uncomfortable as they argued over
her head.
-5h, of course,. 0iss Bingley agreed, -and besides that, she must also have a certain
something in her air and manner of wal*ing, the tone of her voice, her e!pressions and address.
/aving accomplishments is nothing if one does not have any style to display it..
-I am surprised then that any lady can be considered accomplished,. 4ane remar*ed quic*ly,
lest the conversation run into more intense territory, the heat growing on her face, -I cannot
imagine anyone who has all these requirements. I *now of young ladies who are wonderful
musicians, but who lac* finesse in social duty. I *now of great artists and dancers, but who show
no interest in the modern languages. In a young lady's air, I *now not how one can say that this
or that is the proper style to behave, only that if it is pleasant and unassuming I am not left
wanting..
-0y dear 4ane, there are many such women though I suppose none in your sphere that you
have been e!posed to..
-9egardless of sphere, I cannot claim to *now more than half a do2en,. 3arcy interjected
disinterestedly.
-Indeed, no one in /ertfordshire is accomplished,. 0r. Stewart agreed with authority. -"hough
really, being an accomplished lady is hardly a means to being marriageable. In ondon I have
seen but two ladies achieve such a status and they were hardly handsome..
Bingley as*ed with growing distaste of the man, -So being handsome is the only requirement
you see* to be fulfilled in your future spouse6.
-But of course, wives are meant to be seen not heard..
-So it would not matter if your wife were *ind or caring or affectionate6.
-Aind, caring and affectionate enough as a wife should be..
-8ou only see matrimony as duty then6.
-5f course, is that not the reason people marry these days6.
It was then that 0iss Bennet shot up from her chair, causing the two men leaning closer and
closer in their argument over her head to recoil in confusion, both uttering her name in surprise.
She bowed her head and said, -I apologi2e, but I do not feel well.. ;ithout another word she
fled the room.
.
"he sounds were revolting and the smell was just as bad. Eli2abeth did her best to ignore it as
she rubbed her sister's bac* soothingly as they sat on the floor, 4ane dispelling the contents of
her stomach into a buc*et in her room.
-5h 4ane, I *new you should not have come below floors tonight+.
-I was well i22y, I promise I was well,. she responded wea*ly when the churning stopped. -I do
not *now what happened, it was suddenly getting too hot and my head was spinning so+.
-Sweeting, please let us get you bac* to bed..
-Is she alright 0iss Eli2abeth6.
4ane dry heaved in reply.
-=lease 0r. Bingley, I thin* my sister and I have been embarrassed enough for one night..
/e was immediately at 4ane's assistance, holding her other side and offering her a comforting
smile. /elping Eli2abeth put her in bed, 0r. Bingley said, -I have already called for the
apothecary, he will be here in the hour..
-I than* you sir..
"he buc*et of water arrived, cloth hanging on the rim. ;ithout missing a beat, he damped the
material into the water and gently pressed it against 4ane's forehead as she breathed heavily.
-Sir, I do not thin* ). Eli2abeth was interrupted by the smile on the gentleman's face, apologetic
and worried in every way.
-It is the least I can do after what my sisters have done. I am sorry for allowing them to e!ert so
much from 0iss Bennet that it impeded upon her recovery, insulting your family and ta!ing her
patience with that man,. he shoo* his head to stop himself from saying more on the matter and
finished firmly, -I am sorry I allowed it..
"he two remained silent as somehow 4ane drifted off to sleep.
Eli2abeth noted the tenderness in which the gentleman loo*ed upon her sister, his hand
brushing away the blonde curls of her hair as he dabbed the wet cloth over her overheating
face.
5n either side of the bed, Bingley and 0iss Eli2abeth counted each breathe that left 0iss
Bennet @ no, 9ane.
&fter everything she endured during supper, she remained fastidious and poised. She handled
Caroline and ouisa's drivel admirably and had greatly ignored 0r. Stewart's presence
throughout the night. /is brow furrowed slightly at the thought of the man.
-0iss Bennet6.
-8es sir6.
-Is there an attachment or understanding between 0r. Stewart and your sister6.
She did not *now whether to laugh or frown, but she choose the latter instead and stated, -;ith
all due respect sir, I do not thin* it is proper to say..
0r. Bingley loo*ed at her, and somehow the loo* was enough to get her to answer regardless,
-0y mother would li*e to thin* so. 0r. Stewart has admired my sister since his arrival almost a
year ago..
-&nd what of 4ane6.
If she caught onto his use of her sister's Christian name, she did not say and shoo* her head.
-She does not li*e him especially, in fact I do not thin* she li*es him at all, but my sister is not so
cruel to tell him so..
-So if he offers for her, she will refuse6.
-0y sisters and I will never marry for anything less than love. "he notion can be delusional or
unpopular or even impossible, but it is love or nothing at all regardless of what our mother
desires..
-3oes 0r. Stewart *now that6.
-0ore importantly do you6 Since we are being honest, I wish you not to trifle with me sir. But
what are your intentions towards my sister6.
/is mouth opened and shut, but no words were produced.
-I would have gladly left this *ind of interrogation to my brother, however, since he is not here I
shall do it myself,. she said, her hand curled protectively around her sleeping sister's. -4ane has
been led astray before by a gentleman and though she did not love him at the time, she was still
grieved by the loss of him. I do not want the same thing to happen again, if you have any care at
all for my sister, please do not ma*e her love you and then leave her..
-/ave I been so obvious in my preference for her6.
-8ou are here beside me ta*ing care of her are you not6.
-I suppose I should have tried harder to be indifferent, but what are her feelings for me6.
-"hat was not the question I as*ed 0r. Bingley..
-But do I not at least deserve to *now6. She frowned at him and Bingley sighed. -=lease
understand 0iss Bennet, I have been almost entrapped many times by women who li*ed me in
proportion to the si2e of my poc*etboo*. I do not want to claim an attachment to your sister only
to find that she is the same as them..
-If that is how you feel my sister is, then I thin* this conversation is over..
Buic*ly, he carried on, -3arcy, Bennet and /urst *now that I am easily attracted to a pretty
face, but I grow disinterested over time once I have reali2ed that their words are meaningless
and their affection dependent on my fortune. 3arcy suggested that if I li*ed your sister, I must
get to *now her which is harder than anyone thin*s despite being in the same house.. /e smiled
then.
-8esterday, I spo*e with your sister for more than an hour with a maid present and for another
hour with ouisa. I was pleased because I found that your sister and I have much in common
and that she is everything I loo* for in a wife. /owever, upon reflection I found that I did not
*now whether she felt as much about me and so I must *now, lest I declare myself and she
does not feel half as strongly as I do..
&gain there was silence as she contemplated on a possible course of action. &fter several
minutes had passed, she decided that the truth was best#
-4ane is not indifferent to you, I have never seen her li*e someone as much as she li*es you,.
she said carefully, -however, she is just as cautious as you are. Being as beautiful as she is,
4ane must ensure that whoever she sets her heart on wants her more than an object to be
owned..
-&re we at an impasse then6.
-(o, I thin* we are more in agreement than anything else. 8ou both have reason to act
cautiously and if you are truly considering pursing my sister then it is better for you both if you
ta*e things as slow as possible..
/e chuc*led. -"hat is quite an odd thing to hear after being privy to one too many ballroom
conversations# 4umping from a dance to the banns in an instant..
-&ye, but outside of the ballroom is where real life is..
-Can I assume then, that I have permission to get to *now your sister, to reach an
understanding if we so wish to have one6.
Smiling, Eli2abeth shoo* her head. -(ow 0r. Bingley, I am merely her sister albeit her favorite
one. If you wish this *ind of arrangement you will have to discuss it with her though I cannot
fathom a reason why she would deny you. It is about time she had a sensible suitor..
Bingley outright laughed at this just as a maid announced 0r. 4ones. 9eluctantly, the gentleman
stood from the bed and after tuc*ing the blan*et properly over 4ane, he made a move to depart,
but paused to apologise once more for the horrendous evening his houseguests had to endure.
-It is not needed sir7 you are not responsible for your sisters' actions. Besides, I have a feeling
0iss Bingley shall get all the she deserves..
Catching the mischievous glint in her eyes, Bingley smir*ed and shoo* his head.
-If I hear I scream, should I worry6.
-(o,. answered she with a dramatic sigh, -but it is li*ely you will need your poc*etboo* to
appease her..
.
5n the other end of the hallway, 0iss Bingley was just entering her room, feeling giddy about
the events the night had offered.
?pon entering her room, she noted that the fire was low and that the candles were not all lit,
shrouding everything in semi)dar*ness.
,ood gracious, the help here are useless, she thought with a roll of her eyes. Stomping over to
the fireplace and grasping the po*er to incite a bigger bla2e. "he wood crac*led and a puff of
smo*e sighed out into her room. &nnoyed, she thrust the instrument harder and the desired
result was reached, a huge puff of fire sprouting so hot it warmed her face immediately, though
with more smo*e than was necessary.
;ith a cough, she held the instrument up into the chimney, thin*ing to herself that something
must be bloc*ing it if the smo*e was not escaping. & sharp thrust led to a blac* cloud of soot to
scatter throughout her room and onto her.
/er coughing grew more incessant as it entered her lungs, and stumbling towards a washbasin,
she rinsed the soot off her face, vaguely wondering why there was an odd tingly feeling
spreading from where she had thrown the water over her head+almost li*e+crawling+
Eyes snapping open, a scream so pronounced it was heard from ongbourn was unleashed as
she swiped at her face trying to get rid of the beetles that had somehow gotten into the
washbasin and was now currently e!ploring her hair, face, nec* and than*s to her dress, the
e!panse of her dEcolletage.
;al*ing bac*wards in her horror, her legs hit the bed and she fell bac*, but instead of the soft
cushion of the mattress she found she had landed in foul smelling sheets.
"he shrie*s from her discovery received attention as her maid flew into her room with every
intention to help, but instead only stood stupidly by the door, watching as her mistress flailed in
horse droppings, wearing a soot covered dress with bugs in her hair.
&nd was she seeing things, are was her mistress missing her eyebrows6
.
Chapter twenty
.
6emberley, Derbyshire
/r. Darcy,
I feel I must ask if it is possible if I may be e)cused from your service at this present time due to
problems with my family. %ince your cousin is here, I hope that it will allow me leave for /iss
Darcy is hardly ever alone with him and /rs. Reynolds+ constant presence.
$olonel ;it'william has also informed me that he is to visit his 0unt $atherine soon and I assure
you, I will be returned to /iss Darcy+s aid before his absence can be noted.
!our kind consideration,
$. &
.
0ost irregular, 3arcy thought folding the short note up.
0iss ucas had as*ed for nothing since she had been in his employ. She did what she was
instructed without question and to the best of her ability, it was her persistence and
perseverance that helped ,eorgiana open up even more than with only 0iss Eli2abeth's
singlehanded efforts.
/e did not thin* that ,eorgiana would survive without her companion especially if 9ichard were
there. But could he really ris* leaving his sister with only 9ichard and 0rs. 9eynolds6
"he library opened and a familiar head of brown hair pee*ed in, a pair of fine eyes searching the
room and settling on him. Even from the distance, he could see her ga2e narrow.
-0iss Eli2abeth..
"he young lady almost used a very bad word, but instead only stiffened her shoulders as she
entered the room. -Sir,. she greeted in a polite though icy tone, -loo*ing for your pencil again6.
-(o madam, I have not yet dropped it.. /e wondered if he dran* too much wine during dinner or
if the glass in his hand was empty.
&s 0iss Eli2abeth stepped closer to where he sat, he subtly swished the glass he held, causing
the ice to rattle. 8es. /e dran* all the brandy. "hen he must be in his cups because Eli2abeth
was standing before him wearing such a thing+
-Is this a dream6.
She loo*ed suitably uncomfortable though hid it well as she crossed her arms over her chest
with a huff.
& part of her said it was because he was as*ing such a strange question and she was annoyed
while another part insisted that it was because she was dressed in only a cotton nightgown and
a robe, and he was staring at her intensely. (ot that it was any different than his usual stares,
but it was certainly more uncomfortable in her current state of attire.
-I am sure I am not part of your dreams 0r. 3arcy..
/e made a sound of disbelief before tipping the glass to allow a cube of ice into his mouth.
Since he made no response, she was determined to ignore him as she searched the small pile
of boo*s on the table for something to read to 4ane who had wo*en up from her sleep in the
middle of the night.
?nfortunately for her, 0r. 3arcy had a very penetrating stare. /er courage rising, she as*ed, -Is
there something you need to say sir6.
-I feel li*e I should apologi2e..
-1or what6.
-1or supper..
-I doubt you of all people need to apologi2e for 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst's behavior..
-"hen it is a good thing I am not,. he remar*ed and his flippant response caused her to turn to
loo* at him properly.
/e was sitting slumped on the chair, his long legs outstretched and his coat removed, cravat
undone and hair in adorable disarray. 0r. 3arcy did not loo* as put together as he always did,
admittedly it could be attributed to the glass in his hand, but he did not appear into!icated.
-0rs. /urst and 0iss Bingley are hardly my responsibility as I am not personally connected to
them other than them being Bingley's relations, so I would have no reason to account for their
behavior.. 0r. 3arcy was e!amining his glass and the ice within it interestedly. -But just because
I cannot ta*e responsibility for their performance does not mean that I cannot ta*e responsibility
for my own..
/is eyes met hers then and she was glad that she was now leaning against the small table
beside the divan.
-&s your brother's friend, I apologi2e for not doing more to stop their idiocy towards you..
-8ou have already said you would not ta*e responsibility for their actions just because they are
0r. Bingley's sisters and yet you feel you should apologi2e to me because you are my brother's
friend6.
-I li*e you and your sisters infinitely more than 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst..
-I could see that by how pained you appeared sitting beside our hostess, though I always
thought you loo*ed that way during all gatherings..
-(ot always, and when it comes to 0iss Bingley I can ignore her as tolerably well as your sister
can ignore 0r. Stewart. "hough how she achieved it, I shall never *now,. he commented, tipping
his glass of ice bac* again stirring Eli2abeth's own observation, -;hy are you doing that sir6.
;ith a piece of ice in his mouth, 3arcy loo*ed at her as his tongue moved the piece of ice
against his chee* so that he could spea*, -3oing what6.
-"hat, why do you *eep putting ice in your mouth6.
-"o prevent me from saying something ungentlemanly about 0iss Bennet's suitor,. his words
somewhat slurred than*s to the ice pressing against the inside of his mouth. /e added, -0r.
Stewart is an idiot.. & moment passed. -I wanted to throw him out the window.. &nother.
-Insufferable man..
-;ell it does not appear as if it is helping,. Eli2abeth noted teasingly.
-It is your fault,. he accused, though without the conviction, -I tal* more with you around..
-&re you actually trying to be humorous 0r. 3arcy6.
-(o, maybe.. /e paused. -I thin* I am slightly drun*..
-8es, I believe it is the fault of the wine at supper, you had an awful lot..
-;ere you watching me at supper madam6. 3arcy as*ed and the rational part of his mind
cringed and flushed in embarrassment at his forwardness though outwardly he showed no such
signs.
Eli2abeth was blushing enough for the both of them. -I simply noticed that 0iss Bingley was
desirous of your attention..
-5h, so you were jealous6. ,ood gods, how much had he dran*6
/is mind is playing tric*s on him, he thought as she suppressed the blush with anger and as*ed
stubbornly, -/ardly sir, what would I have to be jealous of6.
-(othing.. /e shrugged. -0iss Bingley is nothing to you by half..
"he blush returned in double measure and she loo*ed away from him bashfully. -(ow you are
teasing me sir, you really must be in your cups..
/e loo*ed to be considering her words before responding, -0aybe so, but a drun* man's words
are a sober man's thoughts. &lcohol dulls the mind thereby loosening the tongue and casting
aside all reservations..
-&nd what would the great 0r. 3arcy of =emberley have his reservations about6.
/e sighed and when Eli2abeth loo*ed at him again, 0r. 3arcy was loo*ing up at the dar*ened
ceiling thoughtfully. -Buite a lot of things actually# 0y sister for e!ample..
-Is there something wrong with 0iss 3arcy6 She did not seem upset the last she wrote to me..
-5h, what did my sister tell you6.
3eciding that he did not appear hostile or melancholy in any way, Eli2abeth summari2ed her
latest letter with his sister, -She told me how e!cited she was that her cousin was home and that
she loved how well Charlotte and him were getting along, and that )-
-Charlotte6.
-&ye, sir,. she affirmed, -0iss ucas, well rather, Charlotte, is a dear friend of mine and as 0iss
3arcy has discovered our connection they both write to me often with different accounts of the
same event. It really is quite amusing..
-&nd has 0iss ucas divulged any problems6.
-(one that I *now of..
-&re you acquainted with 0iss ucas' family6.
-5f course sir, they are our neighbors after all..
3arcy blin*ed. -Sir ;illiam is her father6.
-8es sir..
-Strange, she did not mention that,. he murmured to himself before as*ing her, -&re her family
suffering from any trouble of any *ind because she as*ed me leave so that she may assist
them..
-I have not seen them these last few days, but as my mother is privy to most of ady ucas'
problems I highly doubt they would be in any trouble that I do not already *now about..
/ow odd, 3arcy thought, what reason would 0iss ucas have to lie, and why not had Sir
;illiam as*ed the state of her daughter at his arrival, surely Sir ;illiam *new who his daughter's
employer was6
-If it helps sir, Charlotte is estranged from her father. Ever since she decided that she was not
marriageable, she focused on her education in order to ta*e up a post as governess. /er father
was not very happy with her considering he was just *nighted when he found out..
3arcy considered this.
-"he ucas' situation did not improve though, and having no suitors, let alone forthcoming
marriage proposals, Charlotte was firm in her decision to leave /ertfordshire lest she burden
her brothers once their parents pass..
-&nd what did her father say to this6.
/e noted how thin her lips tightened before she answered, -/e called her ungrateful and sent
her on her way. /er mother still writes to her, but he refuses to allow any communication
between her and 0aria, in case she influences her out of the marriage mart..
-;ould she ever influence a young lady not to get married6. /e as*ed hopefully.
-(ow sir, Charlotte is a professional young lady. I highly doubt that she would convince
,eorgiana not to get married..
-But I do not want my sister to get married,. he practically wailed, -thin*ing about how she has
only 0iss ucas, my cousin and our house*eeper for company saddens me, but what if she
gets married and her husband does not allow me or 9ichard to see her6.
-,eorgiana would never thin* of marrying someone you do not *now and li*e thoroughly,
especially after the events at 9amsgate,. Eli2abeth soothed, finding an overwhelming urge to
comfort the man nursing an empty glass and loo*ing miserable. -I am sure whoever man you
allow her to wed will happily allow you to see her as often as you li*e..
-But what about me6 I shall have to return to an empty estate..
-But do you not love your home 0r. 3arcy6 8ou sound awfully proud when 0iss Bingley brings
it up..
-5f course I love my home,. he declared, -=emberley is a beautiful place to call home..
Eli2abeth was surprised when he suddenly stood7 casting his glass onto the table and coming to
sit beside her7 grinning li*e a child. -"here is a sun*en garden filled with apple trees, an old
grotto that has this small beautiful fountain and the lawns are always rolling in an emerald rug: It
is most beautiful during spring, but even in autumn it is a sight to behold. "he la*e in the estate
is picturesque and I ta*e ,eorgiana on a little boat whenever I go fishing with Bingley. She
enjoys being on the water and watching the fish, and beating Bingley at chess because he
cannot focus on two things at once:.
/e was e!cited and tal*ative, a sight Eli2abeth had rarely seen without the presence of Aitty
who always had a *nac* for bringing out the child in people. Seeing it herself, caused by nothing
more than her willingness to ma*e him feel better7 made her smile.
-8ou spend a lot of time out of doors then6.
-5h yes, often,. he claimed, nodding enthusiastically. -"he land itself is my favorite thing about
my home, though the music room is a close favorite of mine..
-3o you play, or do you merely enjoy being played to6 ,eorgiana tells me that you li*e the wor*
of 0o2art..
-Indeed, ,eorgiana plays uncommonly well. I can play the piano, but not as good as she,.
though he seemed more proud than upset with the *nowledge. -8ou must hear her play when
you come to =emberley..
She blin*ed. -I am to come to =emberley6.
-5f course,. said he, practically babbling now, -,eorgiana wishes you to visit, though she
probably has not as*ed you yet as she is only hinting the idea at me for my approval. But of
course I shall say yes for what you have done for her, I have no reason to deny you anything at
all. In fact, you may as* for =emberley itself and I shall gladly live in a woodpile in the forest:.
"he absurdity of such a statement made her laugh despite the fact that he had held her hand in
his earnestly, li*e a little boy trying very hard to please someone.
-"hat is very *ind of you sir, but I do not wish for you to live in a woodpile,. she said, patting his
hand.
/e only loo*ed a trifle bit disappointed at this before he agreed, -(o, you probably would not,
you are much too *ind to send anyone off to live in a woodpile..
-5h, I do not *now about that. 0aybe I shall let you stay in one for a night, maybe you shall find
the sprites you have tric*ed my sister into believing in6.
-She is a silly girl 0iss Catherine7 does she not reali2e that you are the sprite that I
encountered6.
-I hardly thin* she would,. she said, chuc*ling along with him.
-&h, but why ever not6 8ou are friendly, playful, carefree and enchanting, if I were to find one
such as you in the forest while I lived in a woodpile I would be very happy indeed,. he declared
causing a blush to brighten on her chee*s. Before she could reply, he suddenly yawned and
without a second thought, laid his head on her lap7 hand still in hers, he said, -8es, I would not
be so lonely if you lived with me, either in a woodpile or in =emberley..
Eli2abeth smiled at him, her free hand attracted to the messy curls of dar* hair as he moved
their hands onto his chest, just beside his gently beating heart. She found herself perfectly
content to stay as she was with him laying his head on her lap as they sat in front of the fire+
"here was a bang @ the sound of a door shutting and the patter of footsteps in the hallway
before something clic*ed in Eli2abeth's mind and she loo*ed down, horrified at the rather
compromising position she was currently in with the gentleman.
Scrambling, she unceremoniously dropped 0r. 3arcy's head from her lap and hid behind a shelf
on the far end of the room as the library door opened.
"he door shut once more and 0iss Bingley strode in, candle in hand and in the most revealing
nightgown Eli2abeth had ever seen.
;hat on earth6
"he (etherfield lady loo*ed about as if searching for something and her eyes immediately
brightened in triumph as she stepped around the divan Eli2abeth was sharing with 0r. 3arcy not
moments before. "here was something in 0iss Bingley's cunning smile that she did not li*e at
all and when the lady moved to sit beside him, Eli2abeth reali2ed with a start what she was
planning to do.
She leaned into the near empty boo*shelf she had chosen to hide behind to see e!actly with
0iss Bingley was doing.
1rom her vintage point, the usually plume attired lady was petting 0r. 3arcy's head as she once
was. Either in a purposeful attempt to alarm the sleeping man of the scheme afoot or in an
une!plainable annoyance at the lady, the boo* placed before her, hiding her face from sight was
pushed roughly off the shelf and slammed into the ground with a thud.
/aving been earlier jarred by Eli2abeth's sudden departure, 3arcy wo*e with a start, shooting
up from his unconscious state li*e a man possessed.
-0iss Bingley, what are you doing here6.
.
-i22y,. 4ane greeted as her sister returned to their room, -where have you been, did you get
lost in the library6.
-/mm6 5h, no, no, I was merely distracted. 0y goodness, have I been gone so long that you
have turned to another occupation6 I thought you wished for a boo* to be read to you6.
-5h indeed, I merely turned to my embroidery while I waited for you..
-I am sorry sweeting, would you still li*e me to read to you6.
-But how are you to read to me i22y, you do not have a boo*,. she posed with a chuc*le,
-goodness, did you even go to the library7 it appears as though you were in the *itchen this
whole time:.
-(ow why on earth would I be in the *itchen6. Eli2abeth as*ed with a laugh as she came to sit
beside her sister.
-8ou loo* quite li*e the cat who got the mil*..
/er sister laughed once more, causing an arch in 4ane's brow. -(ow i22y, what on earth have
you gotten up to6.
-5h nothing 4ane7 nothing at all..
&t her unconvinced loo*, she laughed again. -;hy I do not thin* you need to ta*e anymore of
0r. 4ones' potions, I believe you are right as rain:.
-I am going to sleep now if you really wish to tease me i22y..
-,ood night 4ane,. she sang playfully and her sister gave a sigh tinged in both amusement and
annoyance as she replied, -Sleep well i22y..
&nd sleep well Eli2abeth did, but 3arcy was not having such luc*.
&fter escaping 0iss Bingley from yet another compromising attempt, he made sure to loc* his
door before he was properly dressed in sleeping attire and lying wide)awa*e on his bed.
"han*fully the reali2ation that he was very nearly entrapped had snapped him from whatever
da2e he had been earlier that evening with Eli @ wait, was that real or was that just an alcohol
induced hallucination6
3id he really say all those confoundedly silly things to her or was he just babbling nonsense into
the air where he wished she would be6
/e stared hard at the canopy hanging over his bed, wondering if what Eli2abeth had told him of
0iss ucas was true, if he really had rested her head on her lap, if he had really said he would
be happy with her no matter where they ended up @ in a woodpile or in =emberley. /ad he
really done and said all those things6
/e decided that it did not really matter. Eli2abeth in =emberley would not be a horrible thing.
;hat 3arcy would not thin* of that night was bothering him terribly in the morning. /is agitation
had him standing and pacing multiple times around the room, stopping his valet from his
morning shave before sitting once more, just as frustrated as when he began.
-Is something the matter sir6.
-(o, nothing Bartholomew, please carry on..
"he elderly man, used to his master's moods, nodded and continued with his tas* when he was
surprised once more as 0r. 3arcy stood again.
-Sir6.
-Bartholomew, what would you say if I compromised someone6.
-8ou sir6. "he valet as*ed, though not in confusion for he was quite privy to 0iss Bingley's
attempts. 0r. Bingley's sister had tried to get into his good graces so that he may help her
compromise his employer, but even if Bartholomew was not disgusted by the lady's antics, he
was nothing if not loyal.
-8es, regardless of the circumstances, what would you say6.
-I say that is hardly something you would do sir. It is not your nature to instigate such
dangerous interactions..
-But what if I was not acting li*e me6.
-i*e if you are in your cups sir6.
"he confused stare and the embarrassed flushing at his chee*s gave away his answer, and
Bartholomew felt the need to e!plain, -'"is not the first time you have dran* so sir, when your
cousin visits, you can be found in such a state late in the night when your sister and most of the
staff is abed..
-8es, my cousin feels the need to tease me for it often,. he tried to wave off casually, coughing
to dissipate his aw*wardness.
Bartholomew *new, however, that his master was rarely in his cups even with the colonel
visiting. 0r. 3arcy dran* on only one occasion and that was the death anniversary of his
parents. Since that was not for a few wee*s, the valet suspected that his master must have had
a terrible evening.
-;ell Bartholomew6.
-"hen would not the lady on the receiving end of your actions be pounding away at the door this
very morning6. ord *nows if 0iss Bingley was compromised she would have been the first to
greet 0r. 3arcy rather than him.
-"hat is true,. he murmured to himself.
-=erhaps sir,. Bartholomew offered, -you simply imagined it all. Inebriated states can cause
delusions in some..
& part of him li*ed his valet's reasoning, another did not.
"hen Eli2abeth did not smile at me6 /e could not stop the hopeful doubt in his voice, -=erhaps..
Since 0r. 3arcy was once again seated, Bartholomew continued his mission of shaving his
master while saying, -If you remember anything particular about last night sir, might I suggest
you bring it up in conversation as a way to figure out whether the events had ta*en place6.
It was a good suggestion, but what would he as*6 3arcy wondered and thin*ing very hard
beyond the closeness and laughter with Eli2abeth, he remembered 0iss ucas.
-8es, that seems reasonable Bartholomew, than* you..
.
Chapter twenty)one
.
Eli2abeth was unwell. It was not a state she was ever in as she rarely succumbed from any
malady beyond a headache. But loo*ing at herself in the mirror, she must truly be ill. /er
breathing was uneven, her s*in was flushed and her eyes wide+with fear, with shoc*6 & bead
of sweat rolled down her forehead and she brushed it away stubbornly, her hand sha*ing.
,ood lords, what is happening6
/er *nees gave way and she found herself leaning against the vanity table, her forehead rested
on the wood. Behind her closed lids, her eyes swayed to and fro in nervous agitation as images
flashed in her mind's eye, everything a blur before suddenly it halted and everything moved in
slow motion before her mother's voice ringing in her ears#
-If there is one thing you girls must understand it is that your virtue is everything and being
compromised is not an option for any real lady..
&t that moment she remembered 0r. 3arcy.
/is childli*e e!uberance, his innocent yet earnest promises and his unassuming, tal*ative and
playful behavior+"he way he spo*e and touched her hand, rested his head on her lap without a
care in the world, and promising his beloved home to her:
(o. It is a tric* of the mind:
0aybe these whimsical ideas are the same that Aitty entertains6 5r maybe it is ydia's
dramatics disproportioning a situation that could be contrived6 But since when have I cared
about being compromised, I am neither overly beautiful nor overly wealthy or titled, no, it is the
0ary in me that is ma*ing me so: /er sense of decorum is severe7 it must be the 0ary in me:
/er closed eyes tightened as she shoo* her head, the reminder of 0ary reminding her of boo*s
and in turn libraries and inevitably leading up to the library of (etherfield.
5h that wretched library, she thought, that horrible, empty, useless library that is used for
nothing more than compromising young ladies:
Eli2abeth remembered with a start, 0iss Bingley's appearance.
0r. 3arcy was in his cups, he probably had no idea. In fact he probably will not recall anything
ever happening: She swallowed a lump in her throat, a sha*y sigh leaving her. ;as that relief or
disappointment6
&nd what of 0iss Bingley6 She certainly was not in her cups when she entered the library
loo*ing for 0r. 3arcy.
/e had snapped awa*e had he not6 /e got up and left when just moments before he was
sleeping comfortably, is that not so6
/er head ached. 0aybe it was simply a dream6
& *noc* on the door startled her and she shot up from the floor. -8)yes6.
-i22y, are you quite well6.
-I am well,. she answered, cringing slightly at the pitch her voice too*. Catching her breath and
smoothing out her dress, Eli2abeth reiterated quietly in a firmer tone, -I am well..
-&re you sure6 0ay I come in6.
"a*ing a breath to calm her still scattered nerves, she answered in the affirmative and turned to
the water basin on the table so as to cool the flush upon her chee*s.
Behind her, 4ane entered and began to chirp about how well she was feeling, dismissing why
her younger sister was washing her face even though her toilette was already completed.
-It is simply ama2ing dear i22y, I was feeling utterly dreadful the night before, and I was sure
that dinner with 0r. Stewart would impede so on my recovery, but in fact I am quite well:. She
paused for a second. -I hope that is not a sign that 0r. Stewart is good for my health, I am
certain my mental faculties would disagree at some point..
-Sooner rather than later I imagine,. Eli2abeth replied, lightly dabbing her face with a towel. -It is
good to hear that you are feeling better sweeting, perchance we may return home this day6.
-5h, so soon i22y6.
-;e have been here for almost five days my 4ane7 certainly you reali2e how improper this is6 If
you are well we have no reason to remain here, do you not agree6.
-I suppose+.
&t that point she turned to face her sister with every intention to throw logic at her, but paused
upon the innocent disappointment on 4ane's visage @ though she still nodded in agreement, the
corner of her lips turned down slightly and her eyes loo*ed painfully sad.
-I suppose that 0r. Bingley will want to call upon 0r. 4ones to ensure that you are healthy
enough to leave his home,. Eli2abeth said in a sigh. -&nd I am sure mama will want to be
forewarned of our arrival if 0r. Bingley will allow us leave from (etherfield..
-5h yes, we must write to mama, and we must certainly inform 0r. Bingley of our departure and
give our than*s for his hosting us in his home for so long,. 4ane said, her suddenly large smile
dipping slightly just as a gentle blush dusted her chee*s. -5h i22y, I must tell you of a dream I
had of him last night. 8ou and he were spea*ing and he said he cared for me, oh i22y if it were
real:.
-It may be my dear 4ane, now I believe you must dress to show him you are well. I thin* I shall
go downstairs and inform him that you will be joining us below floors this morning, I am sure he
will be quite thrilled to have your company..
;ith a nod and practically twirling and dancing out of the room, Eli2abeth could not suppress
the bemused smile on her lips.
=erhaps Aitty got her whimsical side from 4ane6
.
ent, Rosings
Dear ;it'william,
I am glad I could be of assistance to you with $ollins5 you need not be so shocked at my *uick
reply for there is little to do here. 6ray is it selfish for me to wish you, Richard and #eorgiana to
visit me soon, possibly in Easter. ,f course I do not e)pect you to5 mother is e)cuse enough.
&ady ;it'william has shared that she would visit if she could, and that I must know that she
cares for me, but she would not wish to put me in the crossing fire should she accept my
invitation. I have no doubt &ord ;it'william feels the same, I believe his last interview with
mother involved various thrown crystals and a screaming competition echoing to @ersailles. 0s
Richard has noted, on any normal occasion the resemblance between our parents is close to
none, but when they argue it is almost as if they were identical twins.
%peaking of Richard, our aunt has imparted to me the most curious thing.
I know that you are off gallivanting with your friends in the county 7-ertfordshire I believe
#eorgiana said8, but &ady ;it'william has said that Richard is at 6emberley and #eorgiana
confirms it too. (hey both wrote to me about a young lady who is with them, a /iss &ucas you
hired, yes.
1ow though it is curious indeed that #eorgiana be in need of a companion at her age 7though I
am indeed one to talk8, I find it most diverting that Richard has spoken of /iss &ucas at
e)cruciating length. -e has wa)ed poetic on the young lady and needless to say it has &ady
;it'william concerned as well as I.
/other will have a fit if she is to hear of /iss &ucas for she was rather hoping that since you
refuse so vehemently to marry me that Richard will do in your stead.
0s you know I have no intention of marrying either of you for you are all horrible people for
making me endure my mother by myself every year. 0nd $ollins too, may I add.
,h yes, and another thing. #eorgiana wrote of me about your young lady as well. 0re you and
Richard leaving me to my mother+s wrath as I wish you 3oy.
!our bored, but incredibly intrigued cousin,
0nne
.
,ood lord, 3arcy thought, muffling a groan with his hand. ;hat a treacherous betrayal: &nd by
his beloved sister's hand: "o sacrifice him to &nne of all people, certainly it was the most
despicable thing ,eorgiana had ever done: /e snorted slightly at the thought.
(o, of course it was not the worst. "he worst was when ,eorgiana had given away his hiding
spot to ady Catherine when he and 9ichard were attempting escape from her on one of their
annual trips to 9osings. (ow that was a horrible day indeed:
But oh, the worst had arrived.
/e did not *now who to fear more, his overbearing &unt Catherine or his cunning cousin &nne.
&s children &nne had been the only girl in a group of boys, there was &ndrew, 9ichard, 3arcy
himself and even ,eorge.
,eorge managed to easily fool &ndrew, &ndrew's understanding of malice was unlearnt and he
had not the instinct that 9ichard had. 3arcy, already *nowing ,eorge's behavior begged away
from his father's favorite and 9ichard happily complied. &nne, normally following &ndrew's lead,
actually mimic*ed 9ichard and 3arcy instead. If anything her instincts were just as strong as
9ichard's and her understanding of others' mannerisms were advanced for her age.
She played the snob quite well, her treatment of ,eorge earned approval from her mother and
loo*s of bemusement from the 1it2william parents. 3arcy's father, however, was disgusted by
the behavior e!hibited by the 9osings heiress and declared that no match would be made of his
only son and &nne.
ady Catherine was livid, but in the end both she and 3arcy approved heartedly.
/is aunt had tried many times in the past to press them to matrimony, but he removed himself
immediately when the conversation arose and &nne handled her mother with a manipulative
slyness so subtle only her cousins caught onto her schemes.
(o matter how often ady Catherine pushed her daughter towards 3arcy whenever he deigned
to visit7 &nne was just as shrewd as she was stubborn.
/is ears caught the crea*ing of the door hinge and automatically he stepped deeper into the
shadows of the curtains. &fter last night's almost compromise by 0iss Bingley he had no mind
to be trapped with her for any length of time lest she repeat her designs.
"han*fully, however, it was not her, but 0iss Eli2abeth that appeared across from him, her hand
on the divan the two shared the night before+.
/e frowned, his brow furrowing in thought. 3id that happen though6 /e still had not decided.
0iss Eli2abeth was dressed more appropriately than she was last night $if that were real and not
some fantasy his alcohol induced mind formulated%, but she seemed just as cautious as then as
she ga2ed about the room, her fine eyes loo*ing, searching for something+
/er eyes landed on the glass cup a quarter full with half)melted ice.
;ell, at least he *new he dran* last night.
-So it was real,. she murmured.
In the silence of the library, her whisper was louder than a shout as her hand on her mouth
gently tapped her slightly trembling lips.
3arcy felt his eyes bulge.
3id they do something compromising the night before6 ;hy had he not remembered it6 3amn it
all, I *new I should not have had that e!tra glass of brandy:
Before he could curse himself further, 0iss Eli2abeth left the room.
.
&s per his valet's suggestion that morning before brea*fast, 3arcy had planned to casually drop
a tidbit of conversation shared with 0iss Eli2abeth the night before and observe if it brought
about any reaction. In his less than sober state, most of their conversation would be inapplicable
to the tas*, than*fully7 however, he could mention 0iss ucas.
&t brea*fast she refused to meet his eye in conversation and only deigned the most minimal of
answers. 0iss Bennet, having joining them for the morning meal, loo*ed to her sister while to
0iss Bennet's right, Bingley had given 3arcy a bemused loo* and a coc*ed brow.
&n e!pression that laughingly as*ed him, -;hat on earth are you doing man6.
& part of 3arcy agreed with the silent question of his friend, but for some reason the desire to
have last night confirmed seemed to spur him to turn into a tal*ative idiot.
0iss Bingley tried to capitali2e on this, but she was pointedly ignored and than*s to /urst, was
diverted with unimportant questions the older gentleman had no desire to *now the answer to#
-0r. 3arcy, 0r. ;hite has educated me as you have suggested, on the trees in the estate,. 0iss
Bingley began, trying to appear sweet, however her pencil drawn eyebrows were angled in a
loo* of anger.
/urst interjected, -Caroline, I believe my ouisa has gotten a letter from her dressma*er, the
newest fashions have ta*en over ondon. &re you going to get your wardrobe redone6.
/e would have to than* /urst with as much alcohol as he wanted for 3arcy was never touching
the stuff again. "he few times he caught 0iss Eli2abeth staring at him from the peripheral of his
vision, her fine eyes lost in thought and a gentle blush dressing her chee*s, however, had him
wondering if another drin* would not hurt.
&fter fast was bro*en and everyone went about their occupations, 3arcy tried to follow 0iss
Eli2abeth to wherever she planned to go so that he may attempt conversation.
Sadly she evaded him, stic*ing oddly to 0iss Bingley's side as she politely queried as /urst had
earlier about inconsequential things.
/e treaded after her at a respectable pace and entered rooms after a certain amount of time.
;hen they entered the library, he paused as a servant greeted him with a letter from =emberley.
3eciding that was good enough reason to be in the library where she currently was, 3arcy
made his way purposely towards the writing station and began to pretend to write. /aving ta*en
a route through one of the few shelves lined with boo*s and completely avoiding the two young
ladies, they had no idea of his presence until they came into view of him sitting diligently behind
the des*.
0iss Bingley tittered and simpered while 0iss Eli2abeth tried to edge away.
It was unfortunate for her that 0iss Bingley noticed that his attention was not on herself, but
rather her companion.
-0iss Eli2a, I believe I have educated you enough about the refined society of ondon, now I
believe it is time for us to begin our improvements. "he mind is a wonderful thing and boo*s are
absolute treasures, I insist we stay and read the few my brother has procured..
-5h that is *ind of you 0iss Bingley, but really I ).
-Come, come 0iss Eli2a, you are leaving us today and I absolutely insist upon your company:.
She murmured something of an agreement and twenty minutes later the two ladies were
seated on the divan across from the writing des*.
0iss Bingley was casually lounging, her chest puffed out as much as she was able and her s*irt
hi*ing up in the most suggestive way, her painted eyebrow ridges were feigned into an
e!pression of concentration while her wrists flashed dramatically with each turn of a page to a
boo* she was pretending to read.
0iss Eli2abeth, in contrast to 0iss Bingley's attempts to put herself at the best advantage, was
sitting stoc* still and tense on the far end of the divan, perched near the edge of her seat as if to
flee in any instance.
/is brow furrowed in thought. ;hat on earth had a he done to her6
& boo* hit the table and 0iss Bingley rose from her seat.
5bviously he had been staring at 0iss Eli2abeth for too long and so began to wal* as noisily as
she could to attract his attention instead, ta*ing laps around the room and casually loo*ing over
her shoulder to see if her plan had wor*ed.
/owever, he only noticed his mista*e in paying too much outward attention to 0iss Eli2abeth
and lowered his ga2e bac* to the wor* he was pretending to do, pen in hand and eyes forced
onto the blan* page before him.
/e did not loo* up again.
-0iss Eli2a,. 0iss Bingley announced in her desperation, -let me persuade you to follow my
e!ample and ta*e a turn about the room @ it is quite refreshing when one has been sitting at the
same latitude for as long as we have..
(ot bro*ering any arguments, she grabbed 0iss Eli2abeth by the wrist, looping their arms
together as she urged them into the same circuit she had been wal*ing for over a quarter of an
hour.
Suddenly amused by this entire thing, a smile finally wove its way onto her lips and 3arcy's
attention was more on her then ever. ?nconsciously he cast his pen aside, leaned bac* into his
chair and watched.
3irectly he was as*ed to join them and to that he answered that their motives for the turn about
the room would be disrupted if he were to accept the invitation. /is tone was flat and for some
reason a dimple on 0iss Eli2abeth's chee* appeared.
/is own dimple mimic*ed the action and 0iss Bingley practically sprang on him despite posing
a question to the young lady she was dragging about, -5h my, whatever can he mean 0iss
Eli2a, do you *now6.
-(ot at all,. she answered, -but depend upon it7 if he intends to be severe the best way to
disappoint him is to not as* him..
&s e!pected, 0iss Bingley was incapable of it and pleaded for a response which he gave with
as straight a face and in as flat a tone as he could. -8ou either choose this method of passing
the time because you are in each other's confidence or because you are conscious that your
figures are at a greater advantage in wal*ing @ if it is the first, I would simply be in your way, if
the second, I am perfectly content to admire you from here..
-/ow shoc*ing7 however shall we punish him for saying such abominable things6.
-;hy you pic* one and use it to your advantage,. 0iss Eli2abeth replied archly as if spea*ing to
a small child, -if you wish to punish him you must do so with the options he has given you, we
shall see who wins then..
&greeing with 0r. 3arcy 0iss Bingley could do. -;hy 0iss Eli2a and I are in confidence sir, is
that not right 0iss Eli2a6.
-5h dear, I did not reali2e. I simply thought we were wal*ing to our advantage,. she answered in
feigned surprise, -after all it pleases him to watch us did he not say6.
-5h yes indeed: Shall we wal* on sir6 ;e would not wish to stop your admiration of us..
1rom beside her, 0iss Eli2abeth suppressed a laugh, her free arm wrapping around her slender
waist as she tried to stop her sides from splitting. ;ith her eyes twin*ling his way, a smile on her
lips and her figure to its full advantage, 3arcy found something else to do whilst he waited to
have a proper conversation with 0iss Eli2abeth as he pic*ed his pen up again.
-By all means madam, do as you li*e. I am quite content..
.
It too* another quarter of an hour to be rid of 0iss Bingley when a servant called and was
prompted to depart.
"o Eli2abeth's relief, the library door was left wide open with 0iss Bingley's maid attending
personally to the pair that remained. &s she became conscious of how she must appear, she
regretted staying in the library once more.
=erhaps it was a bad idea to remain seated on the divan, boo* in hand as she read for she
could hardly see the words anymore because she was smiling rather ridiculously at the pages
before her.
-Is something amusing madam6.
-(othing at all sir,. she answered, her eyes flic*ering up to meet his from over the pages of her
boo*. /is ga2e was intense, but all she could picture was him in his cups, promising =emberley
and offering to live in a woodpile on this very divan. /er flush was immediate and her eyes fell.
-&re you well 0iss Eli2abeth6.
-I am well,. she answered, feeling even more ridiculous.
-&re you quite sure6.
-I am well,. she repeated more firmly as she had to her mirror a few hours past. -&nd you sir6
3id you enjoy watching us wal* to our advantage6.
& curve of the lip, a smile caught in a smir*. -Buite, as I said, I am content..
-I believe you mean >were' sir, 0iss Bingley and I are no longer wal*ing about for your
amusement..
-&nd yet I am still content,. declared he.
-I imagine you slept well then,. she observed, turning a page she had not even read. -0iss
Bingley says that her brother is quite irritable without sleep, I imagine you are as well..
-"hat would be incorrect for that would mean 0iss Bingley *new me..
Eli2abeth only shrugged before turning to her boo* again, and when a small silence stretched,
0r. 3arcy spo*e once more, -&nd if 0iss Bingley *new me at all, she would *now at least the
basics about me..
-;ell I am certain she is well informed on the estimation of your estate, your name, your family
and its history..
-5f course, it is something ondon society teaches you,. he said with a snort. -=utting a price on
a pig before you even see it..
-(ow sir, you as a pig6 I hardly thin* that accurate, &chilles would have thrown you more often
and with less consideration for your fall than he does now. I imagine dropping you in a stream
would be unfavorable, as far as I have seen, &chilles does not enjoy the water..
-&nd that is one of the things 0iss Bingley does not *now, can you imagine what else she lac*s
in regards to me for you already have one on her by simply observing..
-&h, but you see I am at an unfair disadvantage sir, I have not *nown you as long as she has..
-"rue, but as I have said, you already *now me more than she does..
"he challenge in his words bec*oned her, -8ou li*e to read and write words of many syllables..
-3id Bingley and Bennet tell you that6.
-Indeed. 8ou also ma*e that face when you are upset by something someone has said, but only
when that someone is a person you *now well or have any *ind of favor towards..
-"hat is another thing you *now about me that 0iss Bingley does not..
-/ow would you *now sir, have you ever as*ed her6.
-&s*ed her6 (o,. he said, his face scrunching in that same way Eli2abeth had seen when 0r.
Bingley said something at his e!pense. -0iss Bingley does not as* she simply does, which is
why she remains selectively ignorant of what I $and every other gentleman% feel about being
compromised..
It was sudden how the color drained from Eli2abeth's face. Is he tal*ing about what happened
here last night6
3arcy too* her silence and her paler face as confirmation that he did something improper
towards her the evening before in this very same library and he gulped a breath for courage.
-0iss Eli2abeth I ).
-i22y:. 0iss Bennet interrupted, stepping into the library while behind her a servant dragged the
Bennets' bags down the hallway.
-0ama has not yet answered my note and 0r. 4ones has reported that I am well enough to
leave. "he carriage is ready for us, shall we go6.
.
Chapter twenty)two
.
-;hat the blasted hell is that noise6. Ben as*ed groggily, his throat still dry and tight, his visage
set in a grimace as the morning sun strained against the glass of the window, the curtains
offering no reprieve as it was pulled aside.
Somewhere in the room, for Ben could not tell between the light hitting him in the face and the
amount of blan*ets set on top of him, someone ts*)ed, -(ow Benjamin really..
-0ama6.
She stepped in line with the window, her form bloc*ing out the sun from his view and he almost
sighed in relief if a cough had not rattled him. Immediately she was at his side, the sun's light
hitting him in the face once more as his mother fretted over him, pulling him into a sitting
position and slapping his bac*.
-/ill, get some water and more warm soup:.
-0ama,. he tried to call out, but was helped bac* into a lying position by his sister. In confusion,
he loo*ed up at her from the pillows set around him. -Aitty6.
-,ood morning brother, how do you do6.
/e gave a wan smile. -5h right as rain, I was just about to go riding this very minute..
-I see your illness has not ruined your sense of humor,. she said with a nod, already tuc*ing him
in again. -ydia was getting rather lonely e!ercising =uc* alone and though she may adore
5beron, I believe the beast is too loyal to you and struggles to do what our sister demands of
him..
-'Struggles'6 5ur sister ydia, with a horse you say6 & singular thing:.
-Indeed, incredibly singular,. she echoed, smoothing out her brother's hair. -I believe you shall
have a bath soon brother, it is rather singular of you to be so smelly..
Even in his less than stellar state, he pretended to loo* offended. -/ow is this6 I smell: I disgust
my sister6.
-<ery much.. She agreed obediently. -"he day before was not so bad and the day before that
was not so bad either, but this very day is different. 8ou smell as bad as the stables..
-"hen you may fetch ydia to play my nurse7 she is always at the stables, I am sure she would
not mind,. he huffed to the giggles of his sister who leaned down to give him a hug.
-5h it is good to hear you spea* so: 8ou have been rather dull since yesterday..
Smiling, he patted her hand. -I am sorry to worry you dear one, it is just that 4ane's condition
worries me..
-8ou were not to *now that she was not feeling better..
-8es, but >tis not my fault 0r. 4ones told mama of 4ane outside my door,. Ben waved off. -I am
sic*, not deaf..
-8ou may as well be deaf Benjamin,. 0rs. Bennet declared, sitting on the edge of his bed at
Aitty's side and giving him a stern loo* while behind her /ill and a servant set down teacups, a
brea*fast tray and some neatly folded towels.
-;e have been praying for yours and 4ane's health for hours: & vigil until morning light was
hardly sufficient:. 9eaching over to smooth out his hair as Aitty once did, his mother frowned at
him, her hand trailing from his fair loc*s to his chee* and under his chin just before her frown
dipped and the sadness in her eyes beseeched him for his wellbeing.
Aitty felt their mother's quiet sorrow and leaned against her side, arms wrapped about her in an
offer of comfort.
-0ama,. he unwillingly croa*ed, pausing to clear his throat. -0ama, I promise you, I am well..
-0y dearest child, do not lie to your mother..
-I would never try mama, with so many cunning children you are well versed at discovering the
truth..
She mirrored the quir* of his lips, and tapped his nose lightly. -It is best you remember that then
Benjamin, now rest, your sisters have written to tell me that they are coming home and I have
not yet decided if i22y is simply playing me the fool..
-Coming home6. Aitty echoed. -5h mama, surely not, not if 4ane is as ill as 0r. 4ones said she
was:.
-&s I have said, I have not yet found out whether she intends to bring 4ane home, but if so I
need to ensure they are *ept from that Collins man.. &t the mention of the cousin, her face
scrunched in disli*e.
Ben laughed at the resemblance in his mother's e!pression and Aitty's.
-Is the man so terrible6.
-5h brother, you do not yet *now: ;e have had only the pleasure of brea*ing fast with the man
and I disli*e him so:.
-(ow Aitty, you are sounding very much li*e ydia, maybe you should visit (etherfield and have
i22y's company once more,. he suggested.
&t the sour e!pression on her second youngest, 0rs. Bennet chuc*led and *issed her lightly on
the forehead. -3o not suggest such things7 if she were to spend some time scheming with i22y
I have no doubt that they will find a way to singlehandedly chase that odious man right out of
/ertfordshire..
-&nd that is that truly a bad thing mama6.
.
-,oodness the weather today is simply beautiful,. Eli2abeth noted, peering out the glass of the
carriage.
Sunlight danced through the bare branches of the trees, clouds shooed away by a crisp autumn
bree2e and a formation of birds chasing right after them.
eaving (etherfield as she had, she was caught between being grateful for such a departure
and being worried about the consequence of leaving at such an importune time. "hough why
finding out she may have compromised 0r. 3arcy rather than 0iss Bingley could lead to such
conflicting emotions, she could not be sure.
5f course the discovery that she may be forced to wed the gentleman from the (orth was
disconcerting, but it did not seem so terribly horrible+"o be sure7 she abhorred the thought of
entrapping a husband, however, 0r. 3arcy did not appear to be disgusted by the thought of
marriage to her+
<iolently, she shoo* her head. (o, that is a dangerous thought.
0r. 3arcy did not appear to be angry about her compromising him, but he made no move to do
what was dictated when such a thing occurred7 propose marriage.
&ccording to his own mannerisms and ,eorgiana's letters, he was a man that upheld the rules
of society to the best of his ability, and yet he would be perfectly content to not do right by her
and leave her in a compromised state6
Even if no one saw them, even if nothing had truly even happened7 something did. &nd though
he *new, he was doing nothing about it6 (o, that isn't entirely true. /e was going to say
something, I am sure of it, if only 4ane had not interrupted us. If only she had waited a moment
or two more+
"hen what would that have yielded6 She wondered, and immediately her face heated and she
shoo* her head again. It is impossible for me to find something good about forcing a gentleman
into matrimony7 even if the gentleman is *ind towards his sister and is perfectly content with me
having an opinion.
She felt herself being angry then at finding that she was justifying the actions of last evening.
3espite 0r. 3arcy being in his cups, she did not behave li*e a lady and leave immediately. She
stayed and indulged him which made her just as bad as 0iss Bingley for surely the (etherfield
lady would have indulged him in his state of vulnerability as well.
&lready her head was throbbing, and tentatively she touched her temples.
-5h i22y, are you well6.
-I am well 4ane, do not fret7 a trifle headache..
Instead of prying more, as was her wont when something did not seem right, 4ane merely
nodded and loo*ed away distractedly, gnawing at her lower lip.
-4ane6 &re you well6.
-I+.I am+.
-4ane..
,rey eyes darted from the window to her sister, and she fisted the material of s*irt already in her
hands.
-5h 4ane, whatever is the matter6.
;ith the curious and an!ious ga2e of her sister on her, she wretched her hands away and
covered her face, cho*ing bac* a sob. Immediately Eli2abeth's arms stole around her. "hough
confused by the surge of emotions by her usually staid older sibling, her need to protect her
family far outweighed that. -Sweeting, oh sweeting do not weep so. ;hatever has caused you
such distress6.
In her arms, 4ane's muffled voice answered, -0r. Bingley+.
-;hatever could he have done6.
-I+It was not something he did per say, but rather what he did not+.
"hough Eli2abeth was perple!ed by this, she rubbed her sister's bac* in encouragement,
allowing 4ane a moment to gather her composure.
-I heard 0rs. /urst spea*ing to 0r. /urst+and oh+i22y, it is terrible+. 9ubbing soothing
circles on her bac*, she silently prodded her sister for more. -0r. /urst was saying how fine a
match 0r. Bingley and I were, how happy I have made him even when I am incapacitated+I+.
She swallowed thic*ly and nu22led herself closer into the embrace. -I was happy with that, I
should have left then for I *now from 0rs. /urst that it is high praise indeed if her husband
claims to li*e or approve of anything+but I was a selfish creature and I paid for it+.
It too* her a few more moments to gather herself before she finished quietly, -0rs. /urst
laughed and told her husband that 0r. Bingley would never thin* of marrying me. "heir mother
would not have it and neither would 0iss Bingley. But she told 0r. Bingley to enjoy me7 my
smiles and my beauty. I would ma*e a good wife to loo* to, said she, but even if he loved me he
must ta*e 0r. 3arcy's word into account. "hat 0r. Bingley is far richer than our family7 that from
what he $0r. 3arcy% has seen of our mother's behavior that it is li*ely we would be fortune
hunters....
4ane too* a deep breath again. -0r. /urst had no *ind word for me then, he only said it would
not be the first time that unmarried sisters tried to ma*e use of their brother's favorable
connections. 5h i22y, might I have been wrong about 0r. Bingley6 /as my behavior towards
him lowered how they view our brother6.
-5h 4ane+.
-;hat is worse dear i22y is that throughout this entire e!change, 0r. Bingley, who was indeed
present for this conversation, was silent.. "ears rolled freely down her chee*s and as usual,
4ane tried to rub them off as if to erase their e!istence. -/e had no defense for me, and certainly
I did not e!pect that he would defend me to his relations, but+.
"he older Bennet girl stopped herself then, brushing her tears more furiously from her face.
-I cannot cry, not when we are to go home to our family. I cannot be in this state, it will worry
mama and I am sure she will fret enough about me being moved from (etherfield so soon after I
am recovered..
-Sweeting it is all right to cry+.
She shoo* her head determinately. -I cannot i22y. If I were to cry for every gentleman that has
disappointed me ).
-8ou would cry only once,. her sister interjected. -&nd it would not be in vain. /e hurt you deeply
by being silent and there is nothing wrong in shedding tears for it. 8ou *now now what *ind of
man he is, and you are better for it lest you fall for him so completely that no potions can cure
you. (ot even the presence of 0r. Stewart will aid you to health:.
4ane laughed at such an absurdity. -(o i22y, I fear I am beyond the rescuing by any suitor7
gentleman with sense or without. I thin* I must save myself this time..
-Save yourself you will7 no one else is stronger than my dearest sister.. Eli2abeth brushed away
a stray teardrop and smiled. -But do not fear7 you are not alone. "he Bennet children stic*
together, when one enters a war, the rest of us shall ta*e up arms to aid you:.
.
-/ow curious..
-Indeed..
-&nd is it so6.
-I fear it loo*s to be. I *now that the information is rather disheartening considering what 0iss
ucas has done for your sister, but would it not be a danger if you at least did not inform your
cousin6.
-It would be dangerous indeed, being ignorant is more a curse than any, I worry, however, that
9ichard will not heed my warnings..
-;ould he question you so6.
-If he is as half in love with 0iss ucas as both ,eorgiana and &nne has told me he is, then
9ichard will refuse and believe what he wishes. 0ores the pity, he would thin* me of trying to
ruin his happiness instead of trying to protect him..
-&nd has not his mother written to him about the danger of being infatuated with one of her
station6.
-I am aware that she is concerned, but in all honesty 9ichard has always been a better judge in
character than most. I have no doubt that ady 1it2william will place her tentative trust in him..
-8et you are worried still6. Bingley observed. -0iss ucas you have said7 wor*s very hard, is
attentive and diligent to 0iss 3arcy's needs and a proper young lady despite not being born
genteel. &s you have told me as well, 0rs. 9eynolds is most impressed with her and your
house*eeper is rarely impressed with anyone. 0iss ucas does not bare the opportunistic
qualities of a fortune hunter..
-But the situation she is in is most opportune as you yourself have noted,. 3arcy reminded. -She
may be all these things, but when a gentleman that is both titled and rich comes along, how am
I to *now that she will remain as I have *nown her6.
-;ell she has not tried to compromise you..
-"hat is true, but I have not been too long at =emberley and as you, 9ichard and Bennet are so
fond of telling me, I am a most intimidating person with whom anyone would wish to
compromise..
-8ou would be worth the catch as Caroline has proved,. Bingley pointed out with a sigh and a
sha*e of his head. -"his letter from your cousin and what you have divulged of the evening with
my sister is most distracting. I can hardly focus on any conversation at all: I fear I was frightfully
dull this entire morning:.
-Better I distract you then allow you to be void with the missing of your angel..
-"hat is true.. /e shoo* his head again. -&h, and I was so diverted with what has occurred that
I had not even the opportunity to wish her adieu or hand her into the carriage..
-5r plot some charade of sorts that gets the Bennet sisters another stay in (etherfield,. 3arcy
stated dryly to the chee*y smile of his companion.
-8ou would certainly not complain..
0oving a chess piece across the board, Bingley chuc*led. -It is better I thin* that we have this
time apart. &bsence ma*es the heart grow fonder and it will prove to you that my feelings for
0iss Bennet do not e!pire in the hour..
-=erhaps, but I have no doubt I shall be at the receiving end of your entertainment now that you
can no longer pine at 0iss Bennet's door..
-8es, and you shall brood alone without the delightful company of her sister+.
3arcy's colour rose. -Bingley:.
/e held his hands up in defense. -I am jesting: I li*e 0iss Eli2abeth, not as much as you I am
sure, but enough that I would not spea* crudely of her..
-I reali2e that..
-"hen why do you colour so6.
/e grunted. /aving left out the earlier details of his compromising of Eli2abeth, 3arcy wished to
ensure that her reputation was safeguarded for the moment before he decided to act. &nd he
would act. Eventually.
5f all the things he had done, proposing was not something he had any e!perience in. /e
huffed through his nose.
-I thin* 3arcy, that we shall see who brea*s first and visits ongbourn,. Bingley was saying as
he watched the taller man move another chess piece across the board. -1irst to suggest or
leave for a call to the house in the ne!t two days will pay the other in shillings..
-"wo days6 8ou are only assured that you shall last two days away from her6. It will ta*e more
than two days to prepare for a proposal, thought he.
Bingley shrugged, unaffected. -I want her to miss me, not forget me. Come now man, must I
teach you the basics on how to woo a woman6 &s your junior, I would thin* it would be the other
way around:.
.
Chapter twenty)three
.
It was with bitter relief that Charlotte received her notice of dismissal. She *new 9ichard's family
would act once ,eorgiana began to tease of their imminent engagement.
"heir relationship was wrong, socially and economically mismatched @ he was a lord7 titled and
rich @ everything she was not. Cast out of her family, practically penniless and only the good
word of the two families she had ever wor*ed for to offer her life support @ she *new how it
appeared.
9ichard had been too stubborn to see reason and she wanted to *eep ,eorgiana out of the
feud that would li*ely ensue.
I have caused enough havoc as it is, she thought, folding the note neatly on her lap.
/is family must be furious. &nd he will *now, surely that they intervened. /er hand cupped her
lips as her eyes fluttered shut.
/er father's words were already echoing in her head# -ove6 0arry for love6 & fool's gold:. It
seemed right at the time to stand up for her childish belief of marrying for nothing less, but now
that she had found love7 it truly was fool's gold. /ow rich that gold made her feel:
But perhaps it was not love7 she considered reasonably, merely infatuation. ;as that not fool's
gold, a counterfeit of the reality6
9ichard had been *ind, interested, easily amused and obliging @ he was a proper gentleman.
/e had his faults of course, his horrible taste in music, his la2y haughtier, his habit of wa*ing up
at dawn and insisting she play him a concerto of some obscure musician neither of them
particularly enjoyed for the sole purpose of laughing at it+/e meant well, that she *new.
1or all her deficiencies, Charlotte *new her judgment in one's character could not be faulted.
/er instincts were rarely ever at ends, in fact loo*ing bac* she had nothing to regret.
(ot even going against her father's wish to marry the first man who as*ed.
Chuc*ling to herself, she wondered if she would have done the same if somehow she *new that
9ichard would come along, what a thing that would be: /owever, I would not have met him if I
had stayed in /ertfordshire, and I would be married to someone else+
Swallowing the lump in her throat, she got up from her chair across the fire and began to pac*.
.
-0y dear 4ane, tell me what is wrong.. It was a gentle request, a move 0rs. Bennet had been
playing since her daughters' return from (etherfield two days past. Ben had insisted that she
spend some time with her for was it just his imagination or did she loo* very heartsic*6
&t first 0rs. Bennet fretted that 4ane had caught ill again, having been removed so soon after
her miraculous recovery, and so was tempted to scold Eli2abeth. /owever, before she could find
the words, her wild daughter only shoo* her head with a sigh and said, -She is only sad, though
I cannot say why. =erhaps mama, it is best you leave Ben to recover and wait for 4ane to
spea*6.
"he matriarch would not thin* of it. /er child7 unhappy6 (ot under her roof if she could help it:
/er eldest was in isolation, never spea*ing unless spo*en to and barely even then: She would
not deign to laugh at anything despite her father's best efforts, nor gently chide the foolishness
of her young sisters.
(o, her daughter would not be unhappy any longer:
1ocusing very hard on the stitch she was doing, 4ane did not loo* up to reply, -(othing is wrong
0ama, I assure you..
0rs. Bennet frowned, seeing through her eldest's act.
"his was of course, the very same girl that pretended she was not upset when the family cat
died despite the fact that she spent almost the whole night at the small creature's grave. "his
was also the same girl that pretended anger at Eli2abeth's fall from a horse and Aitty's fall from
the roof even though she spent two months straight at their bec* and call. It was a wonder
indeed that her eldest was not at her brother's side day and night since her return.
"hough it was understandable why she was not at his assistance with that Collins' man so
constantly at Ben's side.
-Is it his fault my 4ane, that you are so obviously wary6.
Stopping abruptly in her needlewor*, she stared at the hand*erchief she had been occupied
with embroidering for the past two days with religious dedication. ->/e', mama6.
-0r. Collins..
-5h+It is not mama, I just+.
-"hen if it is not him, is it our Ben6.
-Ben will be well7 he is too stubborn to succumb to illness.. &lmost involuntarily, she patted her
mother's hand in comfort before returning to her activity.
-If not Ben, then surely it must be 0r. Stewart. 3o not fear sweeting, I am sure he shall propose
soon:.
"he see)sawing of her mother's choice in her future husband was constant, as long as she was
wed, 4ane supposed, her mother was content. /owever, in her sense of melancholy, she
answered in the negative, -(o mama, I do not wish him to..
-;hy, why not my 4ane6 5h, I thin* I *now7 is it 0r. 3arcy dear @ have you found that you li*e
him after all6. E!cited and all a flutter, her mother chattered, -;hy you are a smart girl indeed,
are you not6.
-(o, not him mama..
-(ot him6 But then who my 4ane6.
(ervously, she lic*ed her lips, and in the sadness of her daughter's eyes7 0rs. Bennet had an
epiphany. -0r. Bingley6.
It was clear now that she had said his name aloud. ;hy had she not reali2ed it before6 Surely
with her other daughters' approval of the match, 4ane's stay at (etherfield and Eli2abeth's
ascertains of 0r. Bingley's attentiveness towards 4ane7 the two would surely esteem each other:
?pon further reflection, 0rs. Bennet noted the similarity in their manners and behavior7 it was
not a horrible match at all:
4ane had not reali2ed it would pain her so to hear his name for suddenly she had to force
herself to swallow hard.
-5h my 4ane ).
-0ama, I am fine..
-3o not say such things especially when you do not feel so. 5h my 4ane, what happened6.
"he eldest of her children was not a person to deny anything in the face of the truth, but there
were many things to say and no words to e!press it. -0ama, I should have listened to you..
-3ear6.
;ords flowed, sudden and startling from her that she could hardly control herself# -I should have
set my cap upon 0r. 3arcy or attempted to entrap 0r. Stewart, but I made a mista*e.. & puff of
air was forced out, a sound a*in to a sob shuddering out her throat. -I love him mama, and it is a
mista*e..
-0y dear no7 never7 it is not a mista*e to fall in love.. /er mother's embrace was fierce and
immediate. -"ell me all that has happened: &nd do not lie to your mama again: "ell me all @ is
the Bennet family to despise yet another gentleman so soon6.
& laugh, a surprise against lips that quivered for two days straight, tic*led her lips and 4ane
*new she could not stay in solitude any longer.
.
0r. Collins' arrival to ongbourn a day previous to Eli2abeth and 4ane's return from (etherfield
was met with varying degrees of interest, however brief and insignificant such interest was.
0r. Collins' was not any better than 0r. Stewart and alas, less fascinating to the patriarch who
speculated the e!tent of human oddities for sport. But, their father tutted, that was for them to
decide. /is win* gave 4ane and Eli2abeth the understanding that their cousin was indeed a
peculiarity and their imminent introduction would be a test to their good manners.
"he man's air of importance, his owning an overly articulate verbosity for compliments and the
way he was haughty towards everyone @ as if it were their great honor to have him was met with
an eerie feeling of dEjG vu, courtesy of 0r. Stewart.
/owever, where 0r. Stewart had his eight thousand pounds, 0r. Collins had only his -esteemed
patroness, the ever condescending ady Catherine 3e Bough..
/is sense of entitlement, it seemed, came solely from his decision that Ben would pass from an
infliction of almost a wee*. 5f which ydia snorted disdainfully and 0r. 4ones disagreed despite
the clergyman's insistence# -0y good sir, I find that as a devoted servant to our ,od that I have
a very deep, meaningful understanding with our ord 1ather and I feel that I should impart the
wisdom which he so rightly gives onto me..
Being an elderly man with many opportunities to be surrounded by the strange and nonsensical,
0r. 4ones nodded as he continued to assess his patient. Consciously, the apothecary noted the
twitch below the young man's eye, the only indication of how he felt about his cousin's
presence.
-;ell I, that is to say+.
Eli2abeth coc*ed a brow, causing him pause and gnawing away the confidence he pretended to
have. 0r. Collins stammered, -;ell I+I feel that the young ladies need not be here for such an
assessment as this as I am sure their more tender sensibilities will not stand for it..
-0y sisters are hardly the swooning types, cousin, you need not fret on their behalf,. Ben stated
with a wave of the hand, shooing away ydia's offer of tea.
She huffed, putting the tea cup down noisily. -/ave something at least, how are you to get better
without the sustenance6.
-Cousin ydia, the refusal of food is the desire to no longer maintain the hus* of human form,
your brother is merely accepting the fate in which his soul wishes to ta*e7 rest assured, I am
here to give him a safe passage to the everlasting life and secure his family from poverty..
-So very profound,. she replied sarcastically, -pray was it not an effort to put your wits about in
a single sentence6.
-I assure you, I am perfectly at ease. (ot as well as I would li*e to be sure, but I am far from the
gates of Saint =eter,. her brother interjected7 his tone frosty. /is loo* to his youngest sister one
of reproach, and though she visibly deflated her chin was raised in defiance.
-8es, yes, the stubborn soul refuses to be rejected from the life it thin*s is so secure, fret not
cousin, whence you pass your body shall be not a burden at all. I intend to do my Christian duty
and assist your family in all that I am capable of..
-/ow *ind,. Eli2abeth murmured distractedly, noting with amusement the cross eyed e!pression
of both her siblings.
0r. 4ones feigned a cough. -&s honorable as your intentions are 0r. Collins, I find that such a
declaration is unnecessary. 8oung 0r. Bennet's condition has settled and should be completely
cured within a few days..
-&s it is the choice of our righteous lord..
Eyes rolled throughout the room just as 0ary pee*ed her head in. -Is everything all right6.
-&ll is well 0iss 0ary ).
-I am afraid you should be most worried and yet not, Cousin 0ary, it is a true parado!,. 0r.
Collins declared reverently.
ydia's eyes almost fell out of her head.
-I am feeling fantastic 0ary, in fact, tell the stable)hand I wish 5beron to be ready to ride within
the hour,. Ben called jovially before brea*ing into a cough strong enough to result in a horribly
violent spasm.
/is bedroom door was thrown open7 0ary and Aitty rushing forward to his aid while Eli2abeth
searched among the apothecary's potions for something to relieve his ailment.
0r. Collins' found it appropriate to begin to pray.
&nd it was the ruc*us of his sisters' nerves, the vapors of 0r. 4ones' concoctions and 0r.
Collins' eulogy that Ben lost consciousness.
.
Chapter twenty)four
.
"he Sunday 0ass was attended with some impatience. Bingley's feet were tapping to jigging to
pacing from the grotto to where the carriages awaited their occupants. Churchgoers had
greeted them when the service was over, and any inquires about the gentleman's health was
answered with varying degrees of annoyance. 0ostly from 3arcy.
/e and /urst had been witnesses to Bingley's an!iety for the past two days.
/urst had watched on in amusement as Bingley tried to choose pride over his growing
attachment to the eldest 0iss Bennet while 3arcy had rolled his eyes consistently throughout
the little wager.
Bingley admitted defeat late into the first day, at almost three o'cloc*, the (etherfield gentleman
travelled to ongbourn with the hope of seeing his angel and possibly being invited to dinner.
It was to everyone's surprise when he returned, not an hour later, loo*ing dismayed and
confused. "he refusal of the Bennets to entertain him, to what reason, no one in (etherfield
could ascertain and it was with that mindset that he attended mass.
/is sister was sufficiently annoyed into the service as her brother's leg jigged every spare
second and 0rs. /urst grew equally e!asperated as he tramped her toe more than once trying
to see over people's heads.
"he spectacle he was ma*ing of himself was simply to see whether 0iss Bennet was in
attendance, to his horror, she was not7 her family pew consisted of her mother, 0iss Eli2abeth,
0iss ydia, 0iss 0ary and a gentleman no one had seen before.
"hroughout the sermon, Bingley sent questioning glances at 3arcy, and continued in a state of
agitation until he was free to wal* about.
3arcy watched him pace and mumble until he caught sight of the Bennets leaving the church.
9eali2ing that Bingley had wal*ed himself into a stupor on the other side of the courtyard, he
stepped forward to greet them.
-5h, 0r. 3arcy, how nice it is to see you,. she greeted, too withdrawn for the jubilance 3arcy
was used to. Everything about her seemed wea*# her pale s*in, her tired eyes even her hair
appeared matted as if devoid of any energy. Behind her, her daughters appeared equally
sedated.
-=ardon me for interrupting you, but Bingley wishes to spea* to you..
-I am sorry sir, but my family will no longer be entertaining that gentleman,. there was a sudden
fierceness in her eyes as she visibly straightened, her voice returning in the same snap, -,ood
day 0r. 3arcy..
-0r. 3arcy:.
1rom behind the three Bennet girls, a gentleman @ short and thin, jumped forth, grabbing at air
in an attempt to catch his hand in greeting. -0r. 3arcy sir, it is a pleasure to meet you:.
/e could not understand where the gentleman came to *now of him, or where the man even
came from but he was suddenly arrested by some sort of speech delivered with such solemnity
that the bright Sunday morning had hidden amidst storm clouds for the remainder of the man's
presence.
"o the enquiry of his health, he answered with distant civility, reali2ing almost a moment too late
that the Bennets were forced to remain with the length of their discourse.
-&nd you are6.
-&h yes, introductions are indeed an order:. "urning to spy an available sister, he called on 0iss
0ary, -3earest cousin, will you not do us the honor6.
5ver 0iss 0ary's head and the gentleman's eager bobbing in place, 3arcy watched Bingley
spea* to 0iss Eli2abeth. /is attempt to read their lips was horrible, but his attention returned to
the man before him as the words# -0r. Collins., -/unsford. and -ady Catherine 3e Bough.
sprang up in the conversation he had forgotten he was part of.
(ot even ten seconds into the e!change did 3arcy reali2e that a 0r. Stewart was before him
and fawning at his feet, and so it was no surprise that a vein was starting to protrude from his
forehead as 0r. Collins rambled about everything and nothing.
"he things he did for Bingley.
.
It was only for a sense of privacy did they move to the grotto within everyone's sights, but away
from everyone's ears. ydia and her mother watched from the carriage, e!changing conscious
loo*s as they tried to converse as normal with their neighbors.
ydia had been the one who wanted to spea* to 0r. Bingley, to tell him to leave 4ane alone, but
0rs. Bennet was correct in assuming that ydia would hardly be discreet about it.
"hough that was not to say that Eli2abeth was doing much better, -/ow dare you6.
"he gentleman recoiled, but the confusion had not left him. -;hat do you mean6.
-/ow dare you come to my home to as* to see 4ane after what you did6.
-;hat I did6. 0r. Bingley repeated. -I have done nothing but care for her:.
-8et you allow your family to abuse her6.
"o this he was silent and Eli2abeth made a sound of disgust. -8ou had me fooled sir, you had
me thin* that you truly care for my sister, but you are just as bad as 0r. Stewart..
-0iss Eli2abeth.. 0r. 3arcy approached, and bowed before her. -I hope all is well6.
-(o sir, it is not,. she declared, bristling at the calming voice he seemed to be using, as if she
were a wild horse he had to brea*. -&nd my family would appreciate it if you and the rest of your
company would not bother us again..
-0iss Eli2abeth, I hardly thin* that is necessary, please let me tal* to 4ane,. 0r. Bingley begged.
-It is 0iss Bennet to you sir, brea*ing her heart does not give you the privilege of her given
name. ,ood day..
-Be rational 0iss Eli2abeth, can you not see that Bingley has no understanding of what it is you
are so furious about6.
-I am not a child7 do not spea* to me as if I am. If he does not *now what he has done wrong
then you have surely taught him well, after all, being compromised by two ladies in one night
ma*es you proficient in such things..
;ith more flounce than she probably intended, 0iss Eli2abeth left them and the two gentlemen
stared wide eyed at each other. &t the same time, they uttered aloud, -;hat did you do6.
.
Aitty was amusing herself as she usually did, drawing images out of her head and spea*ing
aloud to no one. But no one would be a rude thing to say as Ben was lying only a few feet away.
/e had been asleep since yesterday and had not wo*en. Everyone within the walls of
ongbourn fretted as 0r. 4ones could offer no e!planation other than the fact that their heir was
asleep. "he apothecary had said that it was his body's way of recovering7 being awa*e was only
wasting energy that could be used to heal and so the Bennets watched Ben's every breath,
counting each one that left.
Aitty had counted twelve before she grew bored and decided that entertaining her sleeping
brother would be more fun.
She had woven story after story, illustrating as she went along. Every now and then, he seemed
to ac*nowledge it and Aitty quite enjoyed having an audience for her tales.
Sometime in the middle of a story, Ben moaned in his sleep, and Aitty responded, -5h be calm
dear brother, the saga of our heroes will get better, it is a happy tale and so they shall not be lost
to the storm forever:.
/e moved his head and the young girl decided that he was nodding in approval. -&h, but I
wonder if some romance can be applied to this account6 Every story needs a love interest:.
& grunt. -;ell I *now you do not have a young lady yet, but you never *now, she could be on
her way to /ertfordshire as we spea*. But I wonder what *ind of lady you will have6. Aitty
tapped the end of her pencil against her chin. -/mm+will she be beautiful6.
/e tossed. She rolled her eyes. -I suppose anything less will not do6. /e tossed again.
-;ill she be smart6.
& nod. -Intelligence cannot be bought,. she approved. -;ill she be witty6. & moan. -5h of
course, conversation is important: &nything else you desire brother6.
Ben was still, and then his nose scrunched. Aitty burst into delighted laughter. -She will love
your horse: ;hy, do you not want her to love you6.
/e made a sound of annoyance.
-&h, well I suppose riding together will be your habit. ;ill riding be how you shall fall in love with
her6. /e did not move any longer, but his breath evened out once more, but Aitty was diverted
still and she too* to drawing her future sister.
-I am sure mama will be thrilled,. she proclaimed, and across the bed, 4ane watched in wonder.
.
-,eorgiana I ).
-;hy are you leaving me Charlotte, did I do something wrong6.
-(o dear one, of course not ).
-"hen why are you going6.
"he lady's lips thinned and she loo*ed down, the bonnet in her hand twisting in her grip. -If it
were my decision I would not, but it is simply my time to go..
-But I need you Charlotte:.
-(o, you do not..
-8es I do:. She felt petulant, li*e the girls at the boarding school she had attended briefly.
Charlotte was permitted to her share of authority and respect. But the abandonment ,eorgiana
felt looming was not something the young girl could bare. -;hy are you leaving Charlotte,
please tell me+.
"he lady blin*ed rapidly, trying to banish the glassy sheen in her eyes. -I cannot, I would not
want to be the cause of any further trouble to you..
-"rouble6 8ou are not trouble Charlotte, whatever could you mean6.
-3ear, I ).
"he an!ious twisting of the bonnet in her hands stilled and she worried her bottom lip, before
turning quic*ly for the door as a manservant opened it, a carriage awaiting her outside.
.Charlotte please:.
-8ou will remember what I have taught you, will you not 0iss 3arcy6.
-5f course+. "he strength ,eorgiana had managed to procure slowly left her and she watched
helplessly as her companion nodded bris*ly and left. "he young girl followed quietly, and stood
at the doorway as Charlotte climbed into the carriage.
-0iss ucas, will you write to me6.
In the library overloo*ing the scene of an abandoned girl and the governess that had meant
more to their lives than either of them could fathom7 9ichard watched with narrowed eyes,
crumpled in his hand was a note baring the elegant hand of =emberley's master.
-&lfred,. 9ichard called, -prepare my bags, I am leaving for /ertfordshire..
.
Chapter twenty)five
.
"he room was dimly lit, a slight mist of smo*e in the air from /urst's pipe. eaning against the
window pane, Bingley stared out into the gardens while across from him at the des*7 3arcy was
glaring at the papers before him.
-;hat have we done6. Bingley murmured, practically limping towards the divan.
-8es, what did you do6. /urst as*ed, lounging on a wingbac* chair and observing his
companions. -Church should not ma*e you thus. ,od should revive you, strengthen you and
give you salvation, not sap you of your energy and leave you angry and drun*.. /e snorted. -If
that were the case I would have died years ago, of anger or the bottle @ I prefer the latter mind
you, but the possibility stands.. ;hen he received no answer, the gentleman heaved a sigh and
waved an arm about dramatically. -/ere in lies the angry, drun* and confused bachelors of the
(orth @ the temporary 0aster of (etherfield and the esteemed 0aster of =emberley. Behold
them onloo*ers. "hey died of a natural cause# Stupidity..
-/urst,. said the latter gentleman impatiently, -this is not the time for your amusement in our
pain..
-"here is always time..
3arcy huffed, loudly rearranged the papers on his des*.
-;ill you tell me now what has dulled you both6 /as something happened6.
-5f course something has happened,. Bingley answered, -it is the Bennets..
-/as Bennet's condition worsened6.
-I had not even as*ed+. & similar loo* towards 3arcy garnered the same embarrassed shame.
-5h come now gentlemen, you do not mean to tell me you were so focused on your lady loves
that you completely forgot about your ailing friend6.
-;ell we ).
-0ade a wager, I remember,. /urst reassured. -3o not worry7 I inquired on both your behalves
for the past two days. (eedless to say, our young friend seems to be in a state of limbo @
neither dead nor alive..
-/e cannot be that bad..
-;e do not *now, only that he has not wo*en..
-;ait,. Bingley sat up. -/ow did you get into ongbourn6.
-"hrough the door, as all normal people would..
-But I was barred from it:.
-;ell they had no problem with me. In fact I even stayed awhile with 0r. Bennet and one of his
youngest, Aitty was it6 "o play bac*gammon at Bennet's bedside while 0iss Aitty drew us..
-"his does not ma*e sense: 0iss Eli2abeth told me that I bro*e 4ane's heart because I let my
family abuse her, and yet she sees them6.
-0iss Bennet seemed uncomfortable with my presence, but that could be attributed to her
brother's condition. In fact considering that we did not spea* during her stay in (etherfield, I can
confidently say that she was much the same as she was then albeit a bit more distant than I
remember..
-&nd yet with the fierceness her sister answered me with, 4ane must have been hurt deeply: I
cannot understand from where:.
-/ave you loo*ed to your sisters6 ;e all *now their reputation for *indness could be better..
1or a fraction of a second, he loo*ed doubtful, but then he considered it and sighed. -;hat
could they have said that they have not already6 "he dinner with them and 0r. Stewart was a
prime e!ample of their temperaments and yet 4ane bore it perfectly..
-=erhaps,. /urst suggested, -her illness caused a delay in understanding what was around
her6.
3arcy cleared his throat. -I hardly doubt that any form of malady would affect the acuteness of
her mind. She is a Bennet, and from what we have observed from all the sisters is that none of
them lac* intelligence of any *ind..
-"rue enough, but then what else could it be6.
;ith a sound of frustration, Bingley lay bac* down on the divan. -;hy are women so
confusing6.
-'tis the way they are made..
-Could it be that 0iss Eli2abeth is simply acting as a protective sibling6 Surely she must have
blown the situation out of proportion if you cannot understand what you have done wrong..
(odding, /urst added, -0iss Bennet appears a fragile, forgiving creature, it would not be wrong
to thin* 0iss Eli2abeth is simply doing her duty as a loving sister and doing all that is possible to
protect her family in a way that her sibling herself cannot..
-But that would imply that whatever I have done must have caused her great sadness..
-It would have to be..
-"o hurt someone so severely,. Bingley mused on, -one must mean something to that person..
-"he greater the significance of that person, the greater harm they would be able to do,. /urst
agreed.
& sudden shout stirred the solemn environment before he leapt from the divan.
-,ood god Charles, what on earth6.
"urning to grin, almost manically at his friends, he answered, -She cares for me: 0y 4ane cares
for me:.
-;hat6.
-If she did not, whatever slight I have dealt her would have meant nothing, but she is hurt 3arcy,
/urst, can you not see6 I have affected her in a way you cannot argue7 she feels strongly for
me, can you not see this6.
-8es, and now she does not want to see you,. 3arcy reminded.
-I only need to spea* with her, to as* what I did wrong, and all will be well,. Bingley claimed, -I
shall do whatever it is required to win bac* her affections:. "he bound of energy had not
dissipated and he had ta*en to pacing the library, murmuring to himself, -I must get her favorite
flowers, I must spea* to her father, I must find out what I did wrong, I must ma*e it well again..
/urst chuc*led, stic*ing the pipe bac* into his mouth and turning to 3arcy. -So, what did the
revered 0aster of =emberley do to incite the ire of 0iss Eli2abeth Bennet6.
-;hat ma*es you thin* I did anything at all6.
-(ow I may not have spo*en to her as often as you have, but I have a good sense about her
and I *now that she is not the type of young lady to burn a forest and miss a fern. Surely you did
not get out of that horrid e!change between Bingley and her unscathed..
-I did not..
-"hen6.
3arcy filled a glass of port, too* a swing and leaned further into his chair. Steeling himself for
the worst, he uttered, -I compromised her..
.
It was midday and at ongbourn 0anor, there was an odd feeling of apprehension, as if the
collective heartbeats of their occupants had carelessly missed a significant moment. "his
unease was the reason for Eli2abeth's ramble in the estate's garden.
(ormally she would have went off on a trail into the forests of /ertfordshire, but the li*elihood of
encountering 0r. 3arcy or any of the (etherfield party made her agitated especially considering
the encounter the day before. &t the mere mention of the occurrence, her chee*s flushed a
violent red and she sat upon a stone bench in the garden.
1olding her arms and trying to calm her seething, she leaned against the tree behind the bench
and closed her eyes, conjuring the most peaceful image she could.
/owever, the reminder of her less than stellar behavior after church was not very forgiving.
Constantly she reali2ed how much of a scene she must have made, how utterly rude the entire
thing was7 no tact, no control, she was the worst *ind of enraged. But, she defended, she could
not be faulted. It was not her who bro*e 4ane's heart. &nd that man had the nerve to pretend he
*new nothing:
1ists clenched, Eli2abeth surmised that it was simply one of 0r. Bingley's tric*s.
/ad not 0r. 3arcy and Ben told her how often it was that 0r. Bingley had >fallen in love'6
Everything 0r. Bingley appeared to have had with 4ane was probably all a ploy to ta*e
advantage of young, naHve country maidens7 innocent in the ways of the town gentlemen.
/e must have learnt it from 0r. 3arcy. "he insufferable man that shied away from ondon
society only to be compromised by not one, but two ladies, and he had done nothing about it:
=ossibly because 0iss Bingley had not the status of landed gentry and Eli2abeth lac*ed
economically to enrich his life.
/e would probably have proposed to someone of his standing7 someone with wealth,
sophistication, connections.
She was simply not enough. &nd because he deemed 0r. Bingley his friend, 0r. 3arcy must
have felt that 4ane was not worthy of him either.
"o fuel her indignation further about the gentleman, she had received two notes just an hour
past from Charlotte and ,eorgiana.
Charlotte had lost her position as governess, and with all of 0r. 3arcy's pomp7 he had not even
written a letter of recommendation to forward Charlotte's career as was the wont of >great,
esteemed employers'.
/er friend was not as livid as she should have been, more quietly resigned to the fact, and it
was in this note that Charlotte admitted that she required Eli2abeth's assistance for a short while
once she returned, tomorrow if the weather was good.
,eorgiana on the other hand was a hurricane of emotion @ shifting and changing in a rush7
angry, afraid, saddened, hurt, grieved, furious7 all because her brother had ta*en away
Charlotte's role in her life.
0r. 3arcy had hurt so many, and to what end6 ?nited unhappiness6 ?niversal disli*e6
& sound of frustration left her, and Eli2abeth pressed her face into her hands.
-0y fair cousin,. 0r. Collins demurred, -will you not find counsel in me6 &s the great ady
Catherine 3u Bough once said+.
She had stopped listening. In fact, in her agitation, Eli2abeth had not reali2ed he had joined her
on her ramble in the first place, but she was not in the mood to care. /er situation would not
brighten anytime soon.
.
,eorgiana felt a heaviness in her chest, a sharp pain tightening somewhere near her heart.
=erhaps it was because of 9ichard.
/e had loo*ed solemn and grim for hours since Charlotte left and his usual joviality was but a
whisper in the wind. (ot even the scenery outside was to be of comfort and reading his favorite
boo* to him aloud was hardly enough to lighten his spirits.
But she could not blame her cousin.
She was just as upset with her companion's departure, but *new that Charlotte would not want
her to feel as helpless and lost as she was.
5ccupation, Charlotte had said, was the cure to any ailment of the heart for to stand still and
allow the storm to swallow you up would do no one good.
Sighing, she glanced outside the window of the carriage and guessed at the road they traveled
on# it was a simple road, lined on either side with greenery and filled with forest creatures and
sweet fruit ripe for the pic*ing. "he weather was calming, a slight bree2e tic*ling all it touched as
fluffy white clouds floated la2ily in the blue s*y.
I could draw this, she thought absently, but it is so against the pain I feel. 0y brother sending
Charlotte away6 Charlotte leaving6 9ichard's sadness6 I cannot draw such pretty things when
all seems wrong.
"he pencil in her hand tightened and she gnawed on her lower lip.
"urning a page in her s*etchboo*, a picture her brother had drawn had found its way in her
vision and she brightened.
-;hat are you smiling at ,eorgiana6. 9ichard as*ed from behind his hand, glancing at her
from the corner of his eye as he faced the window.
-5nly that I *now how you can get Charlotte bac*..
-;hat does it matter, your brother does not approve..
-8ou require 1it2william's approval6.
-/is opinion mirrors that of the rest of the family..
-It does not mirror mine.. & slight smile teased his lips and his young cousin grinned. -I *now
who can change his mind, do not fret..
-/ow e!traordinary, and who is this person6.
"he wide, chee*y smile of the young lady across from him was enough to worry him, especially
when she mischievously answered with, -0y new sister..
.
It was a mi!ture of relief and surprise when Ben awo*e from his slumber, grumbling and glaring
ahead at the room that seemed too bright for his comfort. 9ubbing his eyes, he groaned7 his
throat scratchy and an uncomfortable ache bubbling in his stomach.
/e pressed his fingers against his eyes, and wobbled into a sitting position, his muscles
protesting and his head growing increasingly annoyed with his activity.
-Ben:.
-Shh:. he responded, flailing an arm about to silence the sudden noise. -"oo loud..
/ands tentatively touched his, the warmth flooding his limbs at once and he shuddered.
-0ama6.
&n absurd laugh, and then arms wrapped tightly around his nec*. Salty tears ran paths down
her chin and nec* where she had pulled him against, her weeping flooding his ears. 3istinctly,
footsteps approached in succession towards his location and somewhere he heard ydia
proclaim, -/e is awa*e:.
&ll at once, his room was filled with noise and people.
-/ill, call the apothecary:.
-5h, is he well6.
-Ben, how do you fare6.
-&re you hungry, you must be, my goodness someone get him food:.
-;ater, bring him water:.
Ben was sure /ill was out of sorts trying to *eep up with the demands of his fra22led sisters and
mother, but he found the chaos he caused a huge relief. 1or a long time it seemed as if it was
too quiet for too long, and the noise of a house filled with family and love brightened his tired
spirits considerably, particularly when his mother finally released him and he could lay eyes on
everyone once more.
Surrounding his bedside, all his siblings rounded him on either side.
&bove their heads, /ill and several other servants he had *nown as a child and adolescent
watched on with as much glimmer and joy in their eyes as his own family, crying too li*e his
mother, 4ane and ydia.
Eli2abeth loo*ed as if she would cry, but that impulse was converted to cutting off the circulation
in his hand. Aitty had climbed atop his bed li*e a frightened child and hugged his torso so tightly
that Ben was reminded of how ali*e his sisters and mother actually were.
5ut of everyone in the room however, 0ary was frighteningly calm7 almost stoic to his
awa*ening.
;hen the crowd shifted slightly for each member of the room to give him a hug in welcome
relief, 0ary stood before him with a blan* e!pression and there was a hush in the room.
4ust over her shoulder, the doorway was filled with the lan*y frame of his father and a stic* of a
man, 0r. Collins.
-0ary6.
-8ou cannot do that..
-;hat6.
-8ou cannot just leave and then come bac*,. she claimed, glaring at him, -you cannot..
-0ary,. 0rs. Bennet cried, -what are you saying6 &re you not relieved your brother is well6.
Somehow despite having his hand squee2ed to a lifeless limp, he managed to reach for hers
and curl his fingers around them. -0ary, I am sorry.. /er eyes remained betrayed and he
clutched at her fingers tightly. -I *now that you felt me slipping, we are twins after all+we came
into this world together and that feeling of almost being apart forever+.
3iscreetly, she sniffed and loo*ed away hurriedly.
-But 0ary, I am here, I am awa*e, I am fine..
Buietly, she as*ed, -8ou will not leave6.
-(o I will not, ,od has *ept my promise..
-8ou are here6.
-I am here..
&nother sniff, and in an instant she crumpled over him in a mess of tears and dar* hair. "he
silence at the e!change shattered with her cries and all his sisters, mother and even /ill rushed
forward to hug them both.
-;e all missed you,. Aitty informed in the mess, -but 0ary more so: /ow glad we are that we
have you both bac*:.
0ary laughed. -It gives me the emotion to play the saddest songs..
-"hen maybe now you shall play happier ones..
&t the far end of the pile of human limbs, ydia as*ed, -;ill you be riding soon brother, 5beron
misses you so:.
-&nd I miss him too: I shall be out and about as soon as you all grow tired of cluc*ing at me..
-& moment Benjamin,. 0r. Bennet said sternly from the doorway, -3o not thin* that just because
you are sic* and now you are healed that you are going to go off gallivanting7 you have estate
business to catch up on..
Ben whined in protest.
-8ou have rested enough7 a little bit of wor* will not *ill you,. his father stated with an
e!aggerated roll of his eyes.
-But why ta*e the chance6.
-Benjamin Bennet, you are insufferable..
.
Chapter twenty)si!
.
"he crisp air sat heavily in her lungs as she alighted from the carriage, warm colored leaves lay
scattered on the ground before the bree2e rustled them to action. She craned her nec* to loo*
at the house before her, the windows gleaming in the morning light.
Charlotte arrived earlier than e!pected though she was not surprised.
"he complete helplessness she felt at her current situation urged the carriage she rode on to
hasten, she had little money left and she could not thin* of a circumstance worse than being
abandoned on the road to her former home.
"widdling her thumbs for a moment, she hesitated. ;ould they even consider entertaining her,
let alone offering her assistance6 But they were her family, surely+
"he door opened with a heavy crea*, and her father appeared. /e was in the middle of putting
on his coat as he left ucas odge.
-Charlotte6.
-1ather:.
/e wal*ed past her. -;hat is it you thin* you are doing here6.
-1ather I ).
-8ou made your decision, we have nothing to discuss..
-But father, please..
-=lease what6. /e turned to glare at her. -8ou spat in the face of my *nighthood by degrading
yourself to become a governess and for what6 "o return so that you may lead your sister to the
same path6.
-(o, I would never: But I had no choice..
-Choice6 8ou were the daughter of a *night, you had choice aplenty:.
-;here father6 If I were fortunate enough to have anyone offer for me, I would have ta*en it.
But I had not, and I would never thin* of burdening my brothers or you..
-So you choose to be a stain on the family name instead6.
-&t least as a stain I was not a burden and perhaps if I were auspicious, perhaps somewhere in
the future I would find someone that was willing to marry a woman who >degraded' herself
because of love and nothing else..
-ove,. he spat, -when will you stop your naivetE Charlotte6.
-8ou and mother compromised many to have your life. 0other was a maid before you, she
washed clothes and tended the children of her employers, and you, a young man with a
prospective future as a lawyer, too* a chance and married her. 8ou married her for love so why
should I not loo* for it as well6.
-3id you not see the struggle we went through with that foolish decision6.
-8ou love my mother..
-I do, but what good is that6 She was a maid still, and I was disgraced for having relations with
my employer's staff. I did not wor* and she provided: Can you not see the struggle6.
-;as your masculinity more important than the happiness you felt with being with her6. /e did
not reply, and she prodded on, -3id your love falter with that struggle6.
-8es.. /is eyes betrayed no lie, e!haustion e!uding from him. -I wor*ed so hard for us Charlotte7
can you not see that I do not want you to do the same6.
She sniffed, and out of habit brushed away tears that were not there. She had cried too often in
this argument that she could no longer muster the emotions forth7 the desire to fight for her
ideology of love, freedom and a happy marriage was wea*ened. It was impossible in the society
they lived. /er foolishness was clear now. -I see,. she murmured quietly.
/e stopped trying to wal* away and turned completely to face her and in that moment, with his
*ind eyes and his mouth set in a troubled frown, she confessed#
-I fell in love. I fell in love with the wrong person and his family was angered. "hey sent me
away and because I *new too that our love was wrong, I went. I wor*ed for his family so I am
cast out of both shelter and employment..
-So you have come here for help, not so prideful now are you child6 But it is too late..
-1ather6.
-9eturning does not mean you are invited bac* into my home. =lease leave my property 0iss
ucas..
-But father, I ).
-8ou are in need of lodging, I understand, but I cannot offer them to you. 8ou betrayed my trust
and spat on the generosity and security I offered you. ,o 0iss ucas..
She fisted her s*irts and nodded.
;ithout a second loo*, Sir ;illiam left.
Charlotte tentatively touched her forehead, feeling a throbbing in the bac* of her eyes.
& sudden knock, knock, knock alerted her above, and a glance towards the window made her
loc* eyes with her sister, 0aria.
/er younger sister mouthed the words, -/ello..
But she was forced to smile sadly and answer, -,ood)bye.. 1or the second time in her life,
Charlotte had left home for good.
.
=uc* was overjoyed. "he la2y stallion was so e!cited to see his former rider that he had
nic*ered and tossed his head, almost *ic*ing the stable door down in his sudden burst of
energy. In the stall ne!t to his, 5beron snic*ered and reached his head as far as he could to
affectionately nu22le Ben's outstretched hand.
-8ou are an emotional bunch are you not6. Ben posed with a laugh, graciously accepting the
welcome of the two horses.
-3id you behave for ydia, 5beron6.
"he horse snorted, tossing his head. 5ften enough, he seemed to say.
-/ave I not trained you better6.
Both creatures snorted.
-I tried7. he defended, -but neither of you is the best seat..
Suddenly indignant, the horses huffed and turned away in an attempt to give him the silent
treatment.
-5h come on:. /e threw his arms up dramatically. -So sensitive, the lot of you..
"entatively, Bingley's voice came from behind him, -/urting their feelings already Bennet6.
-(ot as much as you have hurt my sister's,. he answered, turning away from the stalls and
shoving his hands into his coat poc*ets, eyeing the other gentleman warily. -It is rather early do
you not thin* Bingley6.
-1orgive me for intruding, but since your house*eeper has barred me from your estate, I had to
find another means of spea*ing with you+.
Ben chuc*led. -/ill does an e!cellent job of protecting her charges..
-Bennet+.
Silently, he stared at the yellow haired man, the curls of his head slightly damp from the morning
dew and his eyes cast down sadly. ,ood lord, Bingley loo*ed li*e a *ic*ed puppy.
-=lease tell me you have an e!planation for my sister's bro*en heart. If you do not, I will be
forced to challenge you to a duel for her honor..
/e gave a hopeful smile. -Can I not simply marry her6.
-It does not wor* that simply with 4ane.. & silence. -;hat did you do man6.
-I do not *now..
-8ou are jesting, do you really wish to duel me6 ;ith five sisters to protect do not thin* I am an
easy one to defeat..
-(o, no of course I would never wish to duel you.. &s young as the gentleman was, he truly had
a gift with the sword. 1righteningly both 3arcy and Colonel 1it2william praised his talent.
Bingley, for his two sisters, had little to no e!perience in it. "he gentleman reflected that his
sisters would ta*e marriage over a duel of honor any day. /e doubted that it had anything to do
with his impending death than it would to be married.
-I mean to say that I honestly do not *now what I did to upset her. &fter she and 0iss Eli2abeth
left (etherfield, I did not see her at all. If neither your house*eeper nor 0iss Eli2abeth had
warned me away from her, I would never have *nown something was wrong:.
-8ou are serious..
-&s marriage:.
9ubbing his temples, he made a sound of frustration. -,ood lord..
-=lease.. Bingley grabbed Ben's shoulders and shoo* them. -"ell me what I did wrong Bennet,
you have to *now:.
-I do..
-"hen6.
-8ou would not believe me Bingley..
-Bennet:.
-<ery well,. he allowed, -but I am e!cluding the e!aggeration, ydia retold me the tale from
Eli2abeth and both of them are truly ve!ed. I cannot believe them completely, all I *now for sure
is that 4ane is affected..
-Is she6.
-3o not loo* pleased for her sadness otherwise I will join my sisters in their indignation..
-1orgive me, but 3arcy was sure she did not feel the same for me+and if she is so effected by
my un*nown slight ).
,roaning, Ben leaned against a barrel. -8ou are both idiots..
-;e are aware, but please Bennet, if you would6 I could end the indecision in my heart and heal
the damage done to your sister's, whatever it may be..
,lancing both ways as if to ma*e sure no one overheard the discussion ta*ing place, Ben
answered, -8ou did not defend her to your family when they abused her in front of you. It hurt
her because you were there, you heard it all, and yet you had nothing to say..
-But 4ane can handle herself marvelously, what does it matter that I did not defend her6.
-Bingley, you fool, one way to hurt a lady's confidence in a gentleman is to allow her to be
publically humiliated:.
-I have defended her before,. he argued, -I have steeled myself when she was in company so
that I do not show my preference for her, but alone with my sisters and 3arcy, I defend her:.
-&pparently you missed a moment..
-;hen6.
=ausing, Ben loo*ed up thoughtfully. -I thin* it was just before they left (etherfield..
It too* a few minutes for Bingley to reali2e when this particular moment was and he groaned into
his hands.
-;hat, what is it6.
-Bennet. I am an idiot..
"he gentleman rolled his eyes. -I *new that old man7 I have been telling you that for years now.
But enough of the obvious, will you beg for my sister's pardon and stop her incessant moping
about6 I love her dearly, but if she loo*s sad for a day longer I shall let Eli2abeth, ydia and my
mother deal with you..
.
It was an hour later at the brea*fast table at ongbourn that Ben invited 0r. Bingley to join them
in brea*ing their morning fast.
"he entire family was at an uproar, but had tactfully *ept it in their glares and tight mouths. 0rs.
Bennet was surprisingly controlled, her husband was amused by the riled up emotions fueling
the room while in the eye of the storm, 0r. Bingley stood somewhat uneasily.
"he inquiry of her health by their guest was answered quietly that she was well. 0r. Bingley still
seemed worried as 4ane was paler than usual and had not lifted her eyes the entire time.
0r. Collins was indifferent to the man's presence7 it was simply another occupant that had the
honor to hear about the great ady Catherine. "he droll of the morning meal seemed never
ending and it was only 0r. Bingley's attempts to be social that helped the food go down at all.
Conversation alone was enough to convince Aitty and 0ary that he did not mean any harm
$though they were ready with the way they fiddled with their butter *nives% while ydia had no
qualms with as*ing anything straight out#
-;hat brings you here 0r. Bingley6.
-I simply wished to *now how Bennet was fairing and how well you all are, we had not the
opportunity to spea* at church,. he answered jovially, smiling politely at Eli2abeth whose brow
twitched.
-;ell you must reali2e there was a reason for it,. the girl ventured.
-8es, as your brother has told me, you must have all been worried about his health. I can
imagine not wishing to be social as a result..
ydia's smile tightened. -5f course..
-But I could not stay away any longer and I had to visit, Bennet is a dear friend after all..
-8es, our brother thin*s highly of you.. She sent a loo* that read -traitor. to her brother who
continued to innocently munch on a piece of bread.
-It is the least I can do for all the *indness he has shown me..
"o the silence, he continued, -0y father always wanted me to be landed gentry you see, and
handling estate business for the first time requires so much attention that I forget what goes on
around me, and I feel li*e I do not notice or than* those people enough for the friendship they
offer me.. 1urther, he loo*ed directly at 4ane. -Sometimes I am so absorbed in the things I am
doing that I do not reali2e that the people around me require my attention and for that I wish to
ma*e as many amends as it ta*es to have the honor of their presence once more..
&t this, the eldest Bennet's pale face blossomed with a gentle, fast growing blush.
5n the other end of the table, 0r. Collins, feeling that his endearing narrative of ady
Catherine's newest curtain purchases was being ignored, withdrew from the table and
addressed the patriarch.
-0ay I hope, sir, for your interest with your fair daughter Eli2abeth when I solicit for the honor of
a private audience with her in the course of this morning6.
Startled, Eli2abeth blin*ed. ;hen the request was finally processed, she had every intention to
refuse, but 4ane clutched her hand quic*ly from under the table and moved her ga2e quic*ly
from Eli2abeth's face to 0r. Bingley.
Inwardly she sighed. 4ane was far too good.
Catching 0ary's eye, she agreed. -I suppose it would do no harm, shall we move to the music
room6.
.
"he room was not large enough to pace in, and though this sounded very ungrateful, 3arcy was
too agitated to care.
9ichard was going to be angry and ,eorgiana would be angry, and he had no doubt Eli2abeth
would be angry too once she heard if she had not already.
But it had to be done.
&s the second son, 9ichard inherited nothing and so he could freely enjoy the attention of young
ladies without feeling li*e they were only interested in his title and poc*et boo*.
?ntil his older brother &ndrew died.
Suddenly 9ichard had connections, a title and a fortune to squander and a heart to brea*. "he
man was vulnerable to these things, having had the mentality of a good second son. /e
e!pected nothing of his parents that they had already provided him, he had a career $or had
since his inheritance% and was prepared to buy a small cottage in some quiet county to grow old
by himself with the best port he could afford.
"hough he regretted sending 0iss ucas off without any references or arranging another job for
her, 3arcy comforted himself with what the future may hold if his gambit played out in
everyone's favor.
Still pacing his room which he had not left since the conversation with /urst and Bingley the
evening before, 3arcy was ruining the hard wor* of his manservant as he ran his hand through
his hair multiple times out of frustration.
If this debacle with 0iss ucas was not of concern, he had the little matter of Eli2abeth.
0iss Eli2abeth Bennet. /e scrowled.
Even in his head, he could no longer address her so formally. &fter all, she would be 0rs.
Eli2abeth 3arcy at some point, perhaps in the upcoming winter, or would she prefer spring6 (o,
he could not wait that long+
eaning against his des*, 3arcy stared down at the pages before him @ the many pictures he
had drawn of Eli2abeth smiling up at him from each leaf.
& winter wedding would be preferable, they could have it here if she so desired. "hough he was
partial to his home, to avoid a scandal and to protect her reputation as well as his, being
wedded at /ertfordshire was not too terrible a compromise.
I would have to send for ,eorgiana and 9ichard+&nne too, if her mother does not display
(apoleon tendencies at the thought of my marrying Eli2abeth+
;ith all his planning, he had forgotten a minor detail# =roposing. If only he had the foresight and
determination as 0r. Collins had.
"han*fully for 3arcy, his future wife was not to be bought by emotionless speeches of propriety
and duty.
.
"wenty)seven
.
9ichard was used to traveling and had learnt to accept the accommodations available to him as
a soldier. /owever, upon signing the guestboo* with his new title $something his mother had
made him practice with the few letters he sent home after &ndrew's death%, the girl attending
them immediately rambled off that she would prepare the best room the lodge could offer, and
then proceeded to drag them above two floors to reach it.
"he room was not particularly e!travagant, but was clean and smelt fresh with the flowers still
blooming in their vases. It seemed to be a small sitting room with minimal decorations and two
doors on opposite sides leading to their personal rooms.
"he girl arrived a moment later, directing the footmen on where their trun*s would be placed
while carrying a tray of biscuits and a pot of tea. In the same breath, she as*ed if they required
servants to attend to their needs before leaving in a haste mumbling to herself that they would,
certainly, they were important people after all.
Before he could protest that it was unnecessary, ,eorgiana patted his arm. -8ou must get used
to this,. she said, -;hen you are officially named ord 0atloc*, this *ind of treatment will be the
norm..
-3o they teach you these things in school6.
She gave a slight smile and said, -Charlotte told me actually, it was something her parents
spo*e of often @ that they are not titled and so they must accept their treatment with dignity. &s I
am, I am titled, and I must accept my treatment with humility..
"he loo* of bemusement in his e!pression made the young girl flush.
-;e are treated in a certain way and though there may be a time to be defiant, it is best for
gentle souls to accept their lot7 that is what Charlotte taught me.. Eli2abeth insisted that the
ways of society were not ordained by the church. It was simply the way Charlotte herself had
been raised and instructed vigorously to *eep within the limits set by society.
-&nd you are alright with this6.
-3o not loo* uncomfortable cousin, it is merely them wanting to ensure that we are happy with
their patronage and will then ma*e an effort to return..
& smile pulled at the corner of his mouth before he turned towards the window. -If I am luc*y, I
would only return for her pleasure, to see her family again..
-Counting chic*ens before they hatch is never a good idea..
-I am simply optimistic..
-"hen why are you smir*ing so6.
-Because I *now she will agree,. he answered, crossing his arms over his chest in satisfaction,
still not loo*ing her way in case his overly gleeful e!pression would send her into a fit of giggles.
,eorgiana rolled her eyes instead just as a woman from the stairs hissed loudly, -;hat did you
say about a lord, Sally6 &re you positive, are you sure6.
-8es ma'am:.
-,oodness, but ). Soon after, the woman appeared, blin*ing slowly at them before managing a
nervous smile. -ord 0atloc*6.
1or a moment 9ichard seemed at a loss for words, however, he caught up to himself and
bowed. -0adam..
-"ell them sir,. the girl, Sally, chimed from behind her, -you are a lord aren't you6.
-Sally,. the lady hissed again, scandali2ed.
-It's alright, they're fine people:.
-Sally:.
-It is alright,. ,eorgiana agreed, smiling lightly, -my cousin is to be a lord7 his father is currently
ord 0atloc*..
-"itled then6.
"hough she did not appear any less e!cited, 9ichard said, -I am afraid my mother has me
practicing for my future role, I apologi2e for any confusion it might have caused..
-5h no,. suddenly nervous, the lady smoothed out her apron, -of course not, you are very
welcome to cause as much confusion as you li*e, if you are in need of anything I will do my best
to assist you..
-"han* you 0iss+6.
-ucas sir, and welcome to /ertfordshire..
.
-I feel that it would be best regarding your current situation that you accept my proposal
Eli2abeth ).
-Enough:. She had ta*en to pressing her hands against her ears, a childish move to *eep him
from tal*ing any further. -8ou cannot be serious: "his+this+whatever it was, could hardly be a
proposal: ;e hardly *now each other 0r. Collins, and I highly doubt we are as compatible as
you thin* us to be:.
-But my living in 9osings ).
-Is lovely, I am sure.. "he e!pression on 0ary's face was too painful to bear, and Eli2abeth
reali2ed that calming down was prudent. -But I am perfectly happy here in /ertfordshire7 in fact,
I am li*ely of all my sisters to remain unmarried. I am too stubborn for a man of the cloth, what
gentleman would have me6.
-;hy I will my sweet Eli2a..
Inwardly she shuddered at the endearment. -(o 0r. Collins, as flattering as your proposal was, I
must decline..
"he sound of the piano bench being pushed jer*ed her attention from the man before her to her
sister, who hastily retreated the room, leaving the door ajar.
Before Eli2abeth could chase after her, 0r. Collins had grabbed her hand. -0y sweet Eli2a, I
*now it is in the interest of a young lady to decline the first proposal in order to ma*e herself
more admirable and worth pursing, and true to my intentions, I will do just that..
-0r. Collins, I assure you that I do not wish for your attentions..
-(ow, now my sweet Eli2a,. he reached out to stro*e her shoulder, but she jolted away. -8our
point has been made, I shall pursue you and it shall be a chase we shall both doubtlessly
enjoy..
;ith one last, assumingly sultry loo*, he too left.
& few beats of silence passed before ydia po*ed her head into the room and said cheerfully,
-;e shall enjoy it too. &nd if he touches you again, mama says I may horsewhip him..
-It disturbs me that you find such amusement in that,. her sister said, sha*ing her head. -;here
did 0ary run off to6.
-I do not *now, but 0r. Collins has gone to spea* to papa..
-,ood lord, for my sa*e, I hope he does not thin* himself too clever..
.
It too* two hours to locate her. /e should have *nown she would ta*e today of all days to
ramble in the woods. /is Eli2abeth was quite adventurous.
Catching the absent smile on his lips, /urst chuc*led. ;ith a wary glance at him and then
pointedly ignoring the older man altogether, 3arcy called out, -Eli2abeth:.
She turned, and clearing his throat, he corrected, -0iss Eli2abeth, I was hoping to come across
you.. Especially here, he thought to himself, it was as good a place as any for a proposal @ she
loved the forest after all, and the leaves that fell and surrounded them felt familiar, this was
where they had first really met after all. It was the perfect place for a proposal:
-0r. 3arcy, 0r. /urst,. she greeted, nodding vaguely. -=ardon me sir, but I fear that I am
preoccupied.. oo*ing around her in da2ed way, she admitted, -0ary has gone missing you see
and no one has seen her for hours..
"he sooner she is found, the sooner Eli2abeth accepts my proposal. -I see, and has she *nown
to wander into the wood often6.
-(o sir that is why I am worried.. "wisting her hands and loo*ing around desperately, she
e!plained that of all her sisters, 4ane included, 0ary was the least e!perienced out of doors.
/er sister enjoyed gardening, but had never gone beyond the property of ongbourn
unaccompanied.
/er growing agitation seemed to waver his resolve that right now was a good time to suggest
marriage, and so he grasped at ways to escape# -"hat is a problem, have you sent footmen to
search6 I shall fetch &chilles and we shall send for help at (etherfield.. &lready flustered and
turning to leave, he was stopped by his companion who grabbed him by his arm and pulled him
bac*.
-"here is no point in both of us going,. /urst said impatiently, -I shall fetch help, 3arcy, stay with
0iss Eli2abeth, it would not do for two Bennets to go missing..
"han*ing him, albeit distractedly, Eli2abeth wal*ed on calling aloud for her sister.
9eali2ing that she was not in a particularly teasing mood, let alone an amorous one, he found
the only way to be useful to her and ma*e the most of his time alone with her was to assist her
and hope a moment of sorts would come up.
& few minutes into their search, he suggested that he might spot 0iss 0ary from a higher
vantage point, and it was then he scaled a tree and loo*ed out between its branches.
-Be careful sir:.
-;e have both done this often enough,. he eased with a slight smile. -I shall be fine, *eep
calling for her perhaps she will respond..
/is perch was high, but apparently not high enough as all he could see were other trees, and a
bird that was angrily chirping at him for being near her eggs.
-Can you see 0ary 0r. 3arcy6.
0uttering apologi2es to the tiny bird and her un)hatched young, he answered in the negative
and proceeded to climb down, only to miss a step a few feet off the ground as the bird flew at
him, still infuriated. /e fell with a thud and she was at his side immediately, supporting his head
with her hand while the other had reached for his face. -0r. 3arcy, are you alright6.
-;ell enough,. he began7 hoarse as he stared up at her fine eyes @ a worried crease on her
forehead as she tentatively fingered the small lump on his head.
-0iss Eli2abeth I).
-Sir6.
-I *now that this may be a bad time, but I must tell you ).
-(o..
Surprised, he stopped wal*ing and blin*ed. -;hat6.
-(o sir, you cannot say anything right now,. she answered and then flinched, a closed fist
coming up to bump her forehead. &loud she groaned and loo*ed up at the canopy of trees
overhead. -She is right, I am a beast..
-& beast6 0iss Eli2abeth, why would you thin* such a thing6.
-Because I am7 I cannot even tell a gentleman that he should not spea* because he is hurt and
all I can do is be rude..
/e resisted being *ept still and moved into sitting position beside her, her last ditch effort to
*eep him lying was her hand on his shoulder. It was almost automatic how his hand then rested
on hers to offer some comfort at the sudden distress of his fall.
-0iss Eli2abeth, I am perfectly well I assure you. I have fallen out of taller trees, I swear I am
well..
-It is not that sir+or perhaps it is+. She shoo* her head. -0ary ran away because I was rude
and hurt her, and now you are hurt and I am being rude to you..
-She ran away6.
-She was upset, and li*e any Bennet who feels compelled to feel emotion, she lost her head..
oo*ing at her, he reali2ed that there was something else within those words, but he could not
quite understand them yet. Eli2abeth sighed then, and continued, -;hile we are here sir, I
wanted to apologise for my atrocious behavior last Sunday. It was e!cessive, but 4ane+4ane
was so hurt+and then 0ary berated me on my handling the situation and I was conflicted and
angry at myself for letting my emotions get the best of me. I am so sorry for how I acted towards
you and 0r. Bingley..
-I have a sister too you *now,. he began squee2ing her fingers. -I would do anything to protect
her and you were doing the same for yours.. It was then that she smiled, a tiny smile, but it was
a smile. -I shall forgive you if you forgive me for that+scene in the library..
-5h sir, about my accusation+. &n absurd laugh left her lips. -I did not *now what I was saying,
but I should not have even been there that night @ you were vulnerable and I)I suppose I was
curious+1orget I said a thing about it..
-;ell that is, you see, I would still li*e to ma*e amends with you ).
Somewhere, a tree branch bro*e and Eli2abeth turned. -0ary:.
"he mousy girl was puffy eyed and red chee*ed, her hands trembling. -3o not:.
-0ary, please,. using him as leverage, Eli2abeth stood up, outstretching a hand towards her
sister. -0ary please, you had us so worried..
She sniffed and shoo* her head, the dar* curls twisting with the action, however before she
could run away, Eli2abeth had moved with such speed that she caught her @ wrapping her arms
around the smaller frame of her young sister.
/e stood, approaching them, wincing as the young girl's sobs filled the quiet forest and
reminded him all too well of the many nights in =emberley where he and ,eorgiana were
isolated from the world and each other.
-I *now I had no right,. the girl said, -I had no right to tell you that you were horrible for refusing
his proposal..
0outh a gape, 0r. 3arcy loo*ing bac* and forth from where they were standing to where he and
Eli2abeth were before7 sitting close to each other with their hands grasped tightly as she stro*ed
his face7 wondering what he missed.
-But i22y you do not understand how it feels to have no one want you,. the sobs grew
frustrated and 0iss 0ary grasped her sister's torso in a fierce hug. -I paid him so much attention
and listened to him when no one else did, and yet, he chose you.. She pulled away then, staring
up at her with large, wet eyes. -i22y, will I ever be chosen6 ;ill anyone ever choose me, will I
ever be loved6.
-3earest of course. But 0r. Collins did not offer for me for love, he offered for me because that
is what his ady Catherine wants. 8ou were there when it happened7 do you not see that what
he did was not for mutual feeling6 /e did it because he was told to, ordered to, e!pected to.
=erhaps he did want you sweeting, but if he were half the man you deserved, he would
disregard what society and his ladyship wanted and offer for you @ marry you..
/er sister continued to weep.
-3ear 0ary, please understand....
-I do understand i22y, I do,. she said, her voice muffled by Eli2abeth's dress. -I *now you would
not accept a proposal from a man you do not love, but what if the man you loves never
proposes6 ;hat then6.
-"hen I shall be a spinster and spend a lifetime with mama and her nerves. I shall probably find
Ben a wife if I have time and ydia a husband if she would deign to pay attention to a man that
does not wear a red coat.. She seemed to feel her sister's quiet laugh, and she smiled and
loo*ed up at him standing there, comforting the quiet girl no one ever noticed.
&nd 3arcy *new trying to propose right now would be a mista*e.
.
"he sun was setting in the distance, the birds whistled away as the leaves fluttered in the quiet
bree2e. ongbourn sat with its windows of gold staring out into the forest they were finally
leaving.
-&re you sure you are well 0r. 3arcy6. 0ary as*ed quietly, -I did not mean for anyone to get
hurt loo*ing for me, I just assumed no one would notice..
-I am well,. he said, too absorbed in his own thoughts to reali2e how clipped he sounded.
0ary visibly recoiled. &nnoyed, Eli2abeth spo*e, quiet as their surroundings, -I than* you for
your help in finding her sir..
-8ou would do the same for my sister,. answered he, just as short.
"he corner of her lips upturned and disappeared just as quic*ly as ahead of them, two
gentlemen approached. 5ne was Ben, his fair hair tousled and his grey eyes narrowed while the
other was a tall man, much older than Ben with a familiar colouring and scowl+
Before greetings could be e!changed, a punch was thrown then dodged, and the un*nown man
and 0r. 3arcy were tousling on the floor.
-,ood gracious,. came the e!clamation of a young lady approaching from the path from the
house, -I thought you said you could handle them 0r. Bennet..
-I thought so as well, but letting your cousin punch him was better than me doing it.. &t the
annoyed loo* sent his way, Ben gave a boyish smile. -I apologise 0iss 3arcy..
"he young lady stood across from the two Bennet girls and it was with a charming smile, she
curtsied. -,ood afternoon to you 0iss Bennets. I am sorry for my relations,. she said, loo*ing
down at the two grown men disapprovingly, -I could have sworn they were gentlemen, but I am
not so sure now..
.
Chapter twenty)eight
.
Eli2abeth had e!perienced her fair share of strange situations. ;ith numerous siblings the
trouble she witnessed, participated in and was made privy to were countless, and she was sure
long ago that nothing would surprise her. She was wrong.
-0r. Bennet, will you not do something6. 0iss 3arcy as*ed in dismay.
Ben made his decision at a glance. "he other gentleman, Colonel 1it2william, Eli2abeth
assumed, though shorter than 0r. 3arcy, was far bul*er and built than Ben was. 0r. 3arcy
himself was a practical giant. 3espite Ben's school yard brawls and assorted fist fights
throughout his life, he did not have a croo*ed nose or crossed eyes for a reason. -I am afraid I
cannot, this is a fight of honor..
;ith a quiet snort, 0ary stated, -8ou are just afraid that they will hurt you..
-8ou wish me pain already dear sister6 But I have just recovered7 surely you cannot be so
cruel:.
-8our dramatics do not fool me sir,. 0iss 3arcy claimed with a slight huff.
-3o not ta*e it to heart,. Eli2abeth soothed, -my brother does not usually display his cowardice
to any commoner, I would say it is a privilege..
&t that, Ben sul*ed.
It was only when the gentlemen to whom they were spea*ing over, rolled themselves into the
flowerbeds did 0ary declare# -(ow really, must we allow this to go on6.
-"hey are men and this is how they sort out their problems..
-&nd how do women sort out theirs6.
-By smiling in each other's faces while they gossip viciously behind their bac*s,. 0iss 3arcy
answered absentmindedly, before flushing as the trio of siblings turned to her in surprise.
Clearing her throat, she began to fiddle with her petticoat. -It seems that I do retain information
when 0iss Bingley spea*s of such things to me despite my best attempts to ignore her+.
"he Bennet children snic*ered just as another patch of flowers were trampled. -I have had
enough:. 0ary moved to reach for the men, to pull at their coats and perhaps yell in frustration
in defense of her flowers, but her brother decided then to intervene.
-I am afraid gentlemen that you must cease and desist for you are destroying my sister's
favorite flowers and it will not stand ). /is announcement was interrupted by a punch to his
chee* and his reaction, regardless of his previous assessment, was to hit bac*.
"he three ladies sighed in unison.
1rom the house, there was a flurry as 0rs. Bennet ran out of the *itchen in a whirl of her s*irts
with /ill trailing behind.
-;hat on earth is this noise6. the matron demanded, horrified at the large bundle of human
limbs on the ground and the curse words that found its way out into the open air. -8ou are
gentleman, surely not. Benjamin Bennet, I demand you to stop: ,ood ord, 0r. 3arcy too6 1or
shame: "his is not gentlemanly at all:.
&lmost out of nowhere, at either side of her, /ill and 0ary were leading her bac* into the house
despite the lady's wails.
-Come along 0ama, let us leave the gentlemen be+.
-But they are ruining your flowers child, and brawling: ;hatever for6 ;hy on earth are they
fighting6 ;hat is ).
/ill hushed her, -eave them be madam, they'll ma*e right soon enough..
Confused, 0iss 3arcy loo*ed to Eli2abeth, who sighed again. 5ffering her arm, she said
instead, -;ould you li*e some tea ,eorgiana6.
.
4ane was dumbfounded.
-So it is 0iss Bennet, that I am of the authority that a match between you and I would be most
advantageous. 0y station, though modest, has been blessed with the generous patronage of
ady Catherine, and ).
5f all the things she e!pected on a visit to the stables in search of her brother, a marriage
proposal beside =uc*'s stable was not one of them, and certainly not by her cousin. -0r. Collins
surely ).
-I *now that my love for you is strong and may be too intense for such a brief meeting, but I ).
-Sir please,. she begged, -I cannot hear anymore of this, this is madness:.
In her confusion, she was too startled to sha*e his hands off of her, ignoring as well, =uc*'s
indignant *ic*ing at the stall door. -0y dear, lovely, sweet 4ane, you must understand that our
love cannot be repressed any longer:.
ove6 Surely the man was jesting: "hey had barely said one word in ten to the other, and her
mother had $to her relief% *ept her as far away from their insipid cousin at all times. (ot to
mention Eli2abeth# -8ou proposed to my sister, and now you do so to me6 "his is preposterous:.
,iving her a sympathetic loo*, his thumbs pressed circles around her arms. -I did not propose to
your sister my dear, I was merely as*ing for her consent in my perusal of you which she gladly
gave,. insisted he, an utter lie of course. 4ane was no one's fool. Eli2abeth, as e!pected,
refused his offer and now he was simply trying to get engaged to please his ady Catherine.
Still, her anger was overwhelmed by her desperation. -9elease me at once:.
-8ou do not understand, I must have you my 4ane:. /e neared, dangerously close to her lips,
and she drew away as far as she could until she was against the wall, but he persisted @ until
the loud coc* of a gun.
4umping away as if she were on fire, 0r. Collins started.
-;hat in heaven's name do you thin* you are doing to my daughter6. /er father demanded, the
barrel of the gun directed at him in warning.
/is nephew made a sign of surrender, despite loo*ing pale at the weapon in his face7 his smile
was smug to the everlasting irritation of 0r. Bennet and ydia. -It seems you have caught us in a
most compromising position which I believe can only rectified with marri ).
-5h shut up,. ydia snapped, swiping a horsewhip off the wall mount, frightening =uc* who was
still hammering against his stall.
In contrast to them all, 0r. Bingely was gently pulling 4ane out of the corner 0r. Collins had
managed to get her into, worried eyes meeting her own. -0iss Bennet are you alright6.
-I am sir,. she answered, both to his question and to the worried glance 0r. Bennet sent her
way.
-/e did not hurt you did he6. 0r. Bingley continued, gently e!tended her arms to see red hand
prints marring her pale flesh.
-(o, no he did not..
-Bingely,. her father spo*e, -be a good lad and bring 4ane inside to her mother, I shall deal with
this vagabond. ydia, go with them..
/er youngest sister frowned, but instead of arguing as her wont, she cast the horsewhip aside
and met 4ane's eyes. "ugging her by the elbow in the direction of the house, her lips moved in
silent question# -&re you sure you are well6 0ight I tell i22y so that she may horse whip him6
Shall I tell mama so that she may scream at him to submission6 "ell me you are well.. /er
worried interrogation was interrupted, however, by 0r. Bingley.
-Sir, should I not stay and assist you.. /e loo*ed about ready to as well, the lines of his mouth
were tight and the sharpness of his amber eyes made him appear li*e some sort of predator.
4ane was suddenly more afraid of what 0r. Bingely would do to 0r. Collins.
(ever mind that her father was aiming a hunting gun at the man.
-(either of my girls need to hear this, now please, bring her inside..
"he usually jovial gentleman loo*ed to be weighing down his options before he nodded firmly
and did what he was told, ydia trailed slightly, rubbing her sister's bac* in a show of comfort.
?pon reaching the house and the *itchen in particular, 0r. Bingley assisted her onto a stool and
as*ed, -;ould you li*e some water 0iss Bennet, shall I call for your mother6 8our house*eeper
perhaps6. /e loo*ed to her sister in as*ance, and the young girl gave a sympathetic shrug
before deciding that mama would *now better what to do, and ascended the servant's stairs to
call her.
;hen 4ane did not reply, he *neeled before her to loo* her in the eyes. -&re you afraid 0iss
Bennet6.
-5f 0r. Collins6. She as*ed in surprise, -(o: But my father, what is my father going to do6.
-I do not *now, but nothing to harm him I am sure. Enough to scare him away I should hope..
-I should hope so as well. I daresay my father is in no temper to thin* himself too clever, lest he
agree somehow to my marrying of 0r. Collins..
0r. Bingley chuc*led. -"hat I highly doubt 0iss Bennet, especially since he has already agreed
to have me court you..
4ane was amused for all of three heartbeats before she shot up in her chair. -;hat6.
.
"he gentlemen trudged into the house clutching various aches and pains, and mumbling to
each other in low voices some twenty minutes after the ladies went inside. ;hy they had
decided to stop their brawl they were not sure, but it was li*ely because they almost rolled off
the hill and into the forest.
?pon entering the room where /ill had informed them of the ladies' presence, 3arcy and
9ichard were shoc*ed at the absolute normality displayed by the room's current occupants.
0iss 0ary was playing a lovely tune on the pianoforte while on the divan, 0iss Eli2abeth and
,eorgiana were chatting amicably while they partoo* in tea. In their neat, clean dresses, the
ladies were perfectly poised and completely unaffected by the dusty, bruised and probably
smelly men that had just entered.
Bennet, it seemed, was not either.
imping towards the settee, he dropped himself with a tired sigh, legs spread before him and
slouching so much that he was practically folded against the furniture. &cross from him,
,eorgiana loo*ed to the young man in concern.
;ith a glance towards 3arcy, 9ichard started to feel the implications of his misbehavior.
,eorgiana had not been in company with many people for months, and now she was suddenly
thrust into a house filled with them.
If he could remember correctly, Bennet had five sisters. ord above, five sisters: 1ive people
,eorgiana had to sit and tal* with for who *nows how long: "here were only two for now, but
what if it had been all five6 1ive: 9ichard's imagination creating terrible scenarios that made him
almost regret punching 3arcy.
1or the longest time, his poor cousin was terrifyingly shy7 beyond the pleasantries of a
conversation, she relied on others to *eep her from floundering in her social duties. ;hat if
Bennet's sisters were not li*e him6 ;hat if they trapped ,eorgiana in idle conversation and
bored her to tears li*e 0iss Bingely6 ;orse yet, what if they e!pected her to spea* and
entertain them6 Surely she would have burst into tears by now6 /ow could Bennet's sisters do
this to poor, sweet ,eorgia )
-"ea 0r. Bennet6.
9ichard, in surprise, uttered her name, and she turned to him with a coc*ed brow. -5nly
gentlemen get tea, ruffians sit in the corner and feel bad for starting fights..
-(ow ,eorgiana I thin* that is a harsh punishment,. 0iss Eli2abeth said, -=erhaps your cousin
had a good reason for hitting 0r. 3arcy, though that is not to say I condone violence of any *ind,
but having a brother shows its effectiveness in some instances..
-It was for a very good reason madam, I assure you, though I admit it was ill)timed,. 9ichard
claimed, bowing in both greeting and apology.
E!pectantly, ,eorgiana and 0iss Eli2abeth turned to 3arcy, -&pologies 0iss Eli2abeth and 0iss
0ary, for both the interruption and the intrusion upon your day..
-8ou have no need to apologi2e to me sir7 you did offer me your assistance earlier today. I thin*,
however, you should beg your sister's pardon..
aying eyes on the young girl he left for what seemed to be months on end, 3arcy bowed. ?pon
his rise, he met eyes of the same blue and the words came easily in such a heartfelt way that
0iss 0ary stopped playing to loo* at him as well.
& shared loo* passed between the ladies before with a slow nod, ,eorgiana rose and then
within a blin*, she had bounded up to him and grasped him tight around the nec* in a hug. 5ut
of habit he lifted her off the ground and twirled her.
"o see the stoic gentleman suddenly so warm and loving, had an immediate effect on his
appearance. 1or some reason he seemed more li*ely to be amiable in this state, roughed up
from a thrashing by his cousin then he would have in a ballroom, his value rated by the shoes
he decided to wear that day. /e had no such concerns now.
Into ,eorgiana's hair, he murmured, -3earest, I have missed you gravely..
-&nd I, you:
Standing face to face, she informed him, -I am still angry with you though.. &t his side, 9ichard
gave him a condescending loo*. 3espite not saying anything further, she loo*ed to him as if he
should say something, anything at all. 5nly instead of waiting, she moved bac* to sit on the
divan, alone now that 0iss Eli2abeth was chec*ing the damage done to her brother's face.
&loud, she made a ts* sound, lightly tracing below a cut at his temple. -/onestly, Ben, did you
put up a fight at all6.
-I am alive, is that not enough6.
Sha*ing her head, 0iss Eli2abeth turned for the doors. -I shall get /ill with something to ease
your self)inflicted ailments. =lease do ta*e a seat and have some tea then at least you may sort
your problems out civilly..
-But, uh+.
She didn't bat a lash at their dusty coats. -"here is a place to sit with ,eorgiana, or with my
sister. I prefer it if neither of you sat together if you please..
-0iss Eli2abeth,. 3arcy spo*e, trying to find the same words to apologi2e to her, for what he
was not sure, but the words were sitting in his throat placed there from the loo* his sister had
given him earlier.
"hough she did not wander as quic*ly as ,eorgiana had, she gave him an arch smile and said,
-Sir it is a trifle, it is simply dust. =lease do ma*e yourself at home, so long as nobody throws
unnecessary punches.. "he last was said pointedly to his cousin, who wal*ed with his head
down to sit upon on the divan, appearing thoroughly reprimanded.
1eeling the outside of his poc*ets, the outline of a trin*et he had collected from the 0eryton
jeweler just that morning as*ed for his attention, instead of fishing it out however, a wiry stem of
a flower, managed to find itself between his fingertips.
;ordlessly, he offered it to her. It was a daisy of some sort, it was yellow once from what he
could tell, but was now brown and lifeless, the frail blossom had caught onto his coat and
despite how pathetic the offer seemed, it still managed to put some color onto 0iss Eli2abeth's
chee*s before she accepted it with another smile.
(o further words were said as she continued out the room, shutting the doors behind her.
-8ou are a hypocrite 3arcy,. 9ichard accused. -8ou have such concerns with Charlotte, and
there you are, head over heels in love with Bennet's sister:.
-It is different,. he answered, fisting the hand that had briefly touched hers, before loo*ing up to
glare at him.
9ichard's rant continued, his voice raising, -/ow6 (either of them are of our station, neither of
them have a fortune to offer nor I doubt connections enviable enough to warrant a marriage in
our society, they are the same:.
/e opened his mouth to argue, but his sister spo*e first, quieter, controlled, -8ou sent her away
because 9ichard is in love with her, by your logic, we should ta*e you away because you are in
love with i22y..
"here was a tense silence that lasted between five seconds and five minutes, but was bro*en
by the arrival of a servant who bowed and informed them of the presence of a late afternoon
caller.
-&nd who might that be6. Bennet as*ed, brows raised as he righted his position with a slight
wince.
-0iss ucas, sir..
.
Chapter thirty
.
Charlotte had stalled her arrival to ongbourn, choosing to wander the hills of /ertfordshire in
search of some peace of mind, some plan for the future, and to find some courage. /er father's
dismissal of her yet again, had left her sha*ing. Stubbornly, she tried to push on and for hours
she shoo*, wal*ing and wal*ing until the hem of her dress was ca*ed with mud and her legs
were tired from her uncharacteristic traipse about the country side.
,oing to ongbourn was the only thing she came up with in her hours of reflection, and still the
sense of hopelessness escaped from every pore.
/ere, at least, they would not send her away.
0r. Bennet had offered her a place to stay once she had told her father of her plans and was
subsequently disowned, it was there that she wor*ed on her accomplishments and assisted with
the management of the three youngest Bennet girls. "his place was the closest she could call
home.
"he family portrait on the wall of the foyer greeted her first, the smiling faces of her best friend
and the family that had housed her for no reason other than the fact that they saw her as family
too, smiling down at her. I hope, she thought, that they will still be smiling when I invade upon
their hospitality again.
-Charlotte6.
She fro2e.
-Charlotte,. her name was uttered again, and she shut her eyes tightly.
-Charlotte please..
-(o+no 9ichard do not,. she moved, eyes still shut, as far away from him as possible. /er
mind raced with questions she had no answer to, but she had no mind to be hopeful, only to
escape him before he somehow manages to get her turned away by the Bennet's as well.
In her need to be out of his reach, she climbed the stairs and to the library @ surely she would
lose him there.
/e was faster than her, bigger too7 and he was right behind her when she slipped inside.
"he curtains were drawn and so it was quite dar*, still she weaved around boo*shelves and
chairs while behind her, 9ichard occasionally bumped into walls and *noc*ed over stray boo*s
on tables. "heir game of cat and mouse was filled with his voice, calling her name.
It was only when the curtain opened and light streamed in that she reali2ed that he was still
behind her, hand almost at her shoulder.
-&re you two playing a game6.
Slowly both their heads turned, and sitting beside the window with the curtain drawn, Aitty tilted
her head at them. -0ay I join you6.
-Aitty6.
"he girl blin*ed before recognition settled in her eyes. -Charlotte: I did not *now you were
coming to visit: &nd having such fun already, but who is this6.
Clearing his throat and straightening, he bowed. -0iss Bennet I assume6.
-Catherine actually, will you not introduce us Charlotte6.
-5h...oh, of course,. she stuttered, stepping as far away from him as she could manage without
the young lady noticing, but it was futile, Aitty noticed almost everything. -"his is Colonel
9ichard 1it2william, and this is Catherine @ she is the second youngest Bennet..
-& pleasure to meet your acquaintance,. he bowed again.
-8ou are a colonel6.
-I am..
-&nd yet, you do not wear a red coat,. she said to herself, -ydia will be most disappointed..
-I am discharged7 my father wished me to come home..
-/e was worried about you, I imagine, and I am sure you missed them as well,. Aitty said, -but if
you were meant to go home, what are you doing here6.
-I am friends with your brother you see ).
-(o sir, I gathered as much for I remember your name from one of his letters, but why are you
here with Charlotte6.
/e opened his mouth and closed it, finding that there was no suitable e!cuse that came to mind
as to why he, a single man with a title and fortune, was chasing after a single woman in a
library. Charlotte, it seemed, had no e!planation either.
Still, the young lady loo*ed at them with the same wide, far away eyes, patiently waiting.
-Can you be trusted 0iss Catherine6.
-"hat depends on what you have done,. she answered slowly, climbing off her perch. Standing
now, she did not loo* li*e the owner of the child)li*e voice, but a young lady blossoming to
womanhood, she quite reminded him of ,eorgiana. -8ou do not mean to hurt my friend
Charlotte by chasing her in here do you6.
-(o, of course not, I would never hurt Charlotte,. he answered firmly. -I only wished to spea* to
her..
-"here is nothing to tal* about..
-/ow can you say that6 ;e have plenty to spea* of:.
-;ell then, what6.
-8ou were fired because of me.. She loo*ed away, but he pushed on. -&nd I *now in his way, it
is because my cousin is only trying to protect me, and I *now you left that day without so much
as a good)bye because you thought it was the best for me..
-It is. ;e are a foolish notion 9ichard..
-;hy6 Because my cousin says so6 Because society says so6.
-;e just are, why do you have to fight it6.
/is brows were *nitted and it was his turn to loo* away.
-Because he loves you,. Aitty offered, turning to pull the rest of the curtains open and letting the
setting sun shine through the glass. -&nd you love him7 you only need to admit it to yourself..
"o her observation, her older companions were silent.
-I *now I should probably give you some privacy, but it is against decorum and mama and papa
would be furious if they caught you two alone so I shall stand here and enjoy the sunset..
Chee*s aflame, Charlotte tried to claim a false truth, it was the only way to prevent 9ichard from
throwing away his inheritance and raising the ire of his family, but Aitty's mind was set on the
sun and 9ichard's eyes set on her.
"he end was approaching and she feared and hoped there would be nothing to stop it./owever,
she was both relieved and disappointed when it was.
-Aitty,. ydia called from the hallway, her voice rising and falling as she paced, trying to locate
her older sister. -;here are you6 8ou must come to the drawing room, we have guests:.
.
It stood to reason that the arrival of an un*nown gentleman and his cousin, both relations of 0r.
3arcy, from a long journey from 3erbyshire would warrant an invitation to supper once
introductions were completed and interrogations complete.
"he un*nown gentleman, the former Colonel 1it2william, now soon to be ord 0atloc*7 was a
single man with a title and a fortune, though the man was not as appealing in appearance as his
cousin he seemed a jovial, pleasant gentleman, but loo*ed overtly distracted by something.
"he young lady accompanying him, 0iss 3arcy was a fine young lady indeed. She was much
the same age as Aitty, and had a tall, womanly figure and the lightest hair and eyes to go with it.
;hen she tal*ed she seemed honest and sweet, if not a bit shy, something about her called
0rs. Bennet to smother her with motherly attention much as she did with 0ary and still did on
the occasion that her most withdrawn daughter withdrew too far. /owever, that urge was
quenched with the behavior of her only son.
-It is not that I find Bach displeasing, only that I thin* very few can do his pieces justice,. he was
saying.
-So you are of the opinion that because no one can do his wor* without losing the integrity of his
art, that no one should play it6. 0iss 3arcy challenged.
-E!actly, you have heard 0iss Bingley play I assume6.
-0uch as I disli*e her, she performs well, ydia remar*ed.
-8ou do not have an ear for the little things, she forces the strength of her instrument and
causes each piece to sound frightfully li*e the same thing,. her brother argued.
-"hat is true,. 0iss 3arcy conceded, -however, for music to survive the age of time7 it must be
played, regardless of whether or not the person performing taps into the very nature of what it is
caused the song to be created in the first place. (ot everyone has such a gift..
-8ou do,. 0ary interjected to Ben's nod of agreement.
-E!actly, I do not *now why you wish to debate with me when clearly I am saying only
performers li*e yourself should play such songs..
/er face visibly warmed, either from Ben's roundabout flattery or the attention of everyone in the
room.
-8ou must play, I have not heard you,. Aitty said, bouncing on her seat. -/ave you mama6.
-(o, no I have not,. was the response, and it was Eli2abeth and Ben who loo*ed her with raised
brows.
"heir mother was an infinite tal*er, a conversationalist in all situations. "here was precious little
that could silence her, and having such a short response was worrying.
-She does play wonderfully,. 0r. 3arcy said, bro*ering surprise on the matron's e!pression.
-=erhaps it is technique, but I feel that it is passion itself that ma*es her so pleasing to listen to..
-=erhaps after supper than, you would be willing to display your accomplishments,. Aitty
bargained.
-I do not *now,. the young lady answered hesitantly, loo*ing to Charlotte for permission as usual
before she reali2ed what she was doing and loo*ed down. She had played for Eli2abeth and 0r.
Bennet earlier, doing a duet with 0ary and it was but a small group of people. & large party such
as the Bennet family and her own relations was something else completely. -=erhaps+.
-;ell for that to occur we must have supper first,. Eli2abeth declared, -shall we to the dining
room6.
,eorgiana stood and so did everyone else, it was only with her quic* glance between her
brother and Eli2abeth, as well as to 9ichard and Charlotte did she loo* to 0r. Bennet pleadingly,
a silent communication witnessed by 0rs. Bennet. ?nderstanding, he offered her his arm.
Seeing as his sister was preoccupied, 3arcy offered his arm to Aitty and then to Eli2abeth with
9ichard only offering to escort Charlotte to supper, despite the wary loo* his cousin gave him.
&s they wal*ed, arm and arm, 0rs. Bennet still sat before ydia approached her.
-0ama, is something the matter6.
?nconsciously, the lady sniffed her eyes slight red from withholding tears. -(o dear. (ot at all..
-But mama ).
-8our brother is simply growing up.. &s he left the room with 0iss 3arcy on his arm, she sniffed
again to the cooing of ydia.
-5h 0ama+.
-3ear, you must promise that you do not grow up too fast and leave me+.
-"hat will be an easy thing mama, for I have already promised the same to papa: ;orry not at
all, for Aitty and I will be here for you both. (ow come, we must to the dinner table, lest 0r.
Collins reappears for whence he came and demands the attention of another young lady of our
family..
-;hat do you spea* of child6.
-/e summoned Eli2abeth just this morning mama, did you forget6.
-I+I have just been so preoccupied dear,. she said, sha*ing her head. -&nd what was i22y's
response6.
-(o, of course,. ydia said with a laugh. -4ane's was the same when 0r. Collin as*ed her..
0rs. Bennet's eyes flared. -"hat man did what6.
-8es, at the stables..
"hrowing her hands in the air, the lady stood. -,oodness me, does no man *now how to be a
gentleman anymore6 1irst a proposal in front of another's sister, then a proposal to another in
the stables, men brawling over flowers and arguing as a sort of flattery: ;hat on earth is the
world coming to6.
.
&s they wal*ed to the dining room, Aitty as*ed, -0ay I tell you both a secret6.
-It would not be a secret anymore if you did,. Eli2abeth replied teasingly.
-But it is such a good secret:.
-If you are so eager to tell us+.
-"hen I shall6 =erfect:. Aitty claimed untangling her arm from 0r. 3arcy's as she twirled to face
them, smile wide. -Colonel 1it2william and Charlotte are in love:.
3arcy's brow twitched as Eli2abeth's arm tightened in his. -5h really6.
-8es:. /er voice dropped to a low whisper, -Charlotte's employer fired her because of it though, I
thin* it is because he thought she was a fortune hunter+I suppose if I did not *now Charlotte, I
would be worried too, but is it not sad6 It is a shame for both of them because Charlotte wants
what is best for him and even ran away when he was trying to tal* to her so his family would not
be angry with him. But Colonel 1it2william simply wants Charlotte.. "he young girl loo*ed
deflated at the end of her e!planation, but her eyes suddenly brightened as she mused, -I thin*
they should run away to ,retna ,reen, and not care a whit what anyone says:.
-9omantic notions are severely unpopular 0iss Catherine..
-"hey are unpopular because people are afraid to do them: If you love someone it should not be
for any other reason than that.. ;ith that, Aitty twirled forward, energi2ed by her romantic
fantasies, she saddled up beside her brother, looping her arm with his and joining him and 0iss
3arcy's conversation with ease.
-3o you see now what you have done6. Eli2abeth as*ed, -Charlotte has done practically
everything for your sister and has not as*ed for anything in return. It is not her fault at all that
she fell in love with your cousin nor him with her..
-But what if she is a fortune hunter, what if she only loves him for his fortune and title6.
-"hen you thin* very poorly of her..
"he air between them was tense even as they entered the dining room, so absorbed in their
previous discussion that they had not noticed that 0r. Collins was missing or that 0r. Bingley,
4ane and 0r. Bennet had joined them at the table.
It was only when 0r. Bennet announced the courtship of 4ane and 0r. Bingley that they sprang
bac* to reality.
-Congratulations:. Aitty and ydia sang, 0ary and Eli2abeth getting up as well to hug 4ane who
was loo*ing better than ever, her beautiful face practically glowing, everything about her
seemed radiant.
-8ou are a luc*y man,. Ben applauded his friend, clapping him on the shoulder. -"a*e care of
my sister will you6.
-5f course,. Bingley agreed his smile just as huge.
-;hen did all this happen6. 0rs. Bennet as*ed, fanning herself. "oday was certainly a busy
one.
-&n hour ago,. her husband answered, -0r. Bingley and I were in discussion for most of the
morning and as soon as we had reached an agreement, he went off to tell her..
-"hat is marvelous, oh 4ane:.
-;ill you have a ball to celebrate6. ydia as*ed, -8ou must, you will be the tal* of /ertfordshire:.
-5h, but what of 0r. Stewart6. 0rs. Bennet interrupted.
-/e did not as* for either 4ane's hand in marriage nor has permission to court her,. 0r. Bennet
reminded, -0r. Stewart has been here for a twelfth month and 0r. Bingley less than si!, and he
has made 4ane happier in those than 0r. Stewart did in all..
-It has nothing to do with how long we have *nown each other, only that 4ane ma*es me
infinitely happy whether we are together or not, she is all I thin* about,. 0r. Bingley admitted to
the further blushing of his lady.
-8ou will not let any societal norms be in the way6. Aitty as*ed to his disbelieving loo*.
-If anyone truly did, I would not be friends with 3arcy or Bennet, or *now at all of Colonel
1it2william. Besides, love is not governed by society or classes or status, love is love. I *now my
sister will be upset as she hoped I would marry someone that would help her achieve a higher
status, but I would still choose my 4ane regardless of it all..
"o this declaration, the Bennet family were placated that their 4ane would be ta*en care of, and
it was this that caused the loo* Aitty gave to 0r. 3arcy an oddly e!perienced nonchalant loo*
that said, -I told you so..
.
-i22y, is something the matter6. ,eorgiana as*ed, noticing her friend's restlessness as they sat
on the divan after supper had been completed.
-(o+I+yes..
She considered her older companion for a brief moment before as*ing, -Is it my brother6.
-?nfortunately..
;ith a sigh, ,eorgiana loo*ed up to find 1it2william standing by the window, glaring into the
night. & routine for him as far as her cousins' letters were concerned, and her family was greatly
concerned about him7 everything from his health to whether or not he would find a wife or
become a bachelor forever. ,eorgiana would not blame them in the slightest.
-/e does not understand what he has done to Charlotte, or you, or Colonel 1it2william..
-(o..
-/ow+how can he not see ).
-/e does see,. she interjected, -he would just rather see the bigger picture. /e would prefer us
to be angry for this one thing rather than ris* having our cousin miserable for his entire life
married to a fortune hunter..
-/ave you tried to ma*e him understand6.
She shoo* her head. -/e has already decided it was for my own good. I am growing up, I
cannot have a governess forever, and I certainly will not need a companion once he is married..
Eli2abeth's voice, for whatever reason beyond her comprehension, faltered. -/e is getting
married6.
,eorgiana's smile was gentle. -Some day. 0y family hopes so. But when he does, I *now she
will be the best woman ever because it is what he deserves. /e ma*es mista*es that much is
true, but he does not ma*e them lightly nor without the full consideration of those that will be
effected by it. /e would do anything to protect his family and the ones he loves. /e does not
*now how much Charlotte has affected 9ichard7 he has not seen them together to *now. 0y
brother has only read 9ichard's letters which, more li*ely than not, sound li*e 0r. Bingley in his
younger years when he was infatuated with practically every young lady of beauty..
-/ow can we ma*e him see then6.
-I do not *now, but you will find a way..
"he loo* of surprise Eli2abeth sent her way only made her smile more. -i22y, my brother only
listens to you7 only you can ma*e him see reason..
-But I ).
-0iss Catherine has entertained me with the romantic notions of ,retna ,reen,. ,eorgiana
informed, -and as much as it is said in jest and whimsical fancy, I have no doubt that my cousin
would resort to it @ that is how he feels for Charlotte. If there's anyone my brother will listen to, it
is you..
-;hy me6.
She shrugged. -&ll men have wea*nesses, that is one of the things 0iss Bingley has told me
multiple times, you just happen to be my brother's..
.
;hen Eli2abeth came to stand beside him, he remar*ed, -8ou are angry..
-/ardly..
-8ou are a terrible liar and sarcasm does not become you,. he pointed out as they stood side by
side in front of the window, loo*ing out into the fields beyond the house as they did the first time
they met at ongbourn 0anor.
;hen she did not answer, he continued, -I *now that you do not understand my reasons+.
-&nd I still do not..
-;ill you accept my e!planation6.
She loo*ed to be considering it before she gave a slight nod. -I do not deserve one, but I would
appreciate it. 8ou did hurt my dearest friend after all, as well as your sister and cousin. I imagine
you owe a number of people an e!planation..
/e sighed. -I thought you already *new what I had done, and that you already forgave me..
-I *new that you fired Charlotte, but I did not *now it was because your cousin was in love with
her. ;ould your family do the same, if you were in love with me6.
It was a hypothetical question and drawing near a line that they had been wal*ing practically
from the day they met, but it still made him loo* away. -"hey would..
-;hy6.
-8ou have neither wealth nor title nor connection to endear my family to you. 8ou are neither
accomplished nor stri*ingly handsome to tempt me in a way that I have not been tempted in any
number of places I have been to..
-;ould you accept that reasoning, if you felt strongly towards me anyway6.
/e stared out through the glass, but only saw himself in the reflection. -(o.. /e turned then to
loo* at her, and she met his eyes.
"he intensity of their ga2es was enough to cause a coughing fit as Ben wal*ed by. -Be subtle, or
father will chase you out li*e he did with Collins, 3arcy..
Both immediately turned away to the window again.
-"hen why did you force your hand with your cousin and Charlotte6.
/e huffed out a breath. -9ichard has been sheltered from the ways of artful women only loo*ing
to him and >loving' him in proportion to how much they can gain from a union with him. /e has
been at war since &ndrew's death, and it is the first time he has been around ladies at all since
then. /e does not *now what he feels ).
-&nd how are you to *now what it is he feels6.
-I do not,. he admitted, -but if your sister were to return from a convent school to a town filled
with red coats and then claim to be in love with one she has *nown for naught a month, what
would your reaction be6.
/er lower jaw clamped and she sighed. -I suppose I understand..
;ith a nod, he continued to stare into the night.
-But that does not ma*e it any less wrong to separate them the way you did. Charlotte is a good
person7 she would never thin* to marry for anything less than love. /er father disowned her for
that very reason..
-I *now now that it was foolish of me to do so, and I do plan to ma*e amends with her, but it is
my cousin that I worry for.. ,lancing at her once more, he stated, -9ichard is painfully impulsive.
I have no idea how he managed to come bac* with all his limbs intact, but+. &nother sha*e of
his head, and he was frowning at his reflection. -/e would marry 0iss ucas in a heartbeat if he
thought he loved her, regardless of whether he *new her or not..
-;hat do you suggest then6.
-Since she is no longer in my employ, my cousin is free to pursue her..
-;hat6.
/e cleared his throat aw*wardly. -/is reaction to 0iss ucas being sent away is all the evidence
my family and I require to *now that his feelings are true. 0iss ucas' agreement to leave also
showed her willingness to protect his reputation..
-8ou were testing them6. Eli2abeth as*ed in disbelief, before sighing in near e!haustion. -I do
not *now what to thin* of you..
/e loo*ed at her, silent and somewhat confused, but she met his ga2e with a wry smile.
-8ou are almost as cunning in your schemes as my mother..
-I resent that,. stated he, with a quiet snort.
-8ou probably should,. she stated, smir*ing, -she would have had them married within the hour..
.
Chapter thirty
.
&ct D# 3ancing in the light
-&re you out of your mind6. 9ichard ranted for the second time in ten minutes7 his cousin's
response was to e!amine the structure of ice in his glass, his apparent disinterest not deterring
him, -8ou are simply giving me permission to court Charlotte6.
-8es. "hough I would withhold the occasion until your mother and father's missive arrives, most
li*ely tomorrow if the roads are good..
-3o you mind e!plaining what the cause of all this running around was6.
-I did..
-&gain,. 9ichard insisted, reaching for his abandoned glass on the table.
Brow popping up to touch his hairline, 3arcy indulged him, -&s agreed by ady 1it2william, I was
to do whatever it too* to ensure your feelings as well as her character7 were true. ;ith such
short time considering your impulsivity, I decided that sending her away would be the best way
to determine both..
-&nd no one *new of this absurd plan beyond you and mother6.
-Bingley *new.. "o the raised brow, he e!plained further, -I needed to *now whether sending her
away would draw the same conclusion to garner an appropriate reaction from you. ,ranted,
Bingley had no idea why beyond my suspicion of 0iss ucas' character and your genuine
feeling for her..
-?tter bolloc*s,. the man decided with a snort. -I cannot believe you tric*ed me..
3arcy shrugged nonchalantly.
-/onestly, I would not have ta*en you for someone who would. "he ,reat 0aster of =emberley
would not have thought of such a deceitful thing,. 9ichard accused good naturedly.
-3o you not believe my mischievous nature survived to adulthood6.
-(ot after your parents' passing..
"he reminder caused the taller man to swallow his drin* as silence enveloped the room.
-8ou *now,. 9ichard began, -from the way I see you and 0iss Eli2abeth behave towards each
other, I have it on good authority that your mother would approve of her..
eaning bac* into his seat, he stared up at the ceiling and said, more to himself, -I hope so..
-;hen am I to wish you joy6.
-8ou have not even attended a ball yet, and you are already sounding li*e the matrons,. he
sighed.
Snic*ering, the older gentlemen sang, -I do not hear you denying it cousin of mine.. ;hen his
companion only flushed, 9ichard laughed once more. -I see ,eorgiana is going to get what she
wants. Eli2abeth Bennet, and four new sisters7 what a family you shall have: But come man, tell
me now, am I to wish you joy before or after my parents give their consent to the union between
Charlotte and I, spea* now:.
"he topic would not be released, even more so when Bingley joined them not five minutes later.
-& grand gesture, I insist,. was the ongoing jest, -as* her to dance and then whis* her away for
your proposal:.
-I do not dance..
-3arcy old man, you must dance, you cannot just stand there li*e a fool on your wedding day,.
Bingley declared. -Come, come, you *now the steps.. ;hether from drin* or simple silliness, the
light haired man stood, dragging his friend to his feet and moving his arms about in a moc*ing
position of some dance, possibly a jig.
&nd then the clapping began @
-5ne, two, three, come on man, I've seen girls younger than 0iss ydia dance better than that:
/ave some enthusiasm will you6. 9ichard bar*ed.
& door opened and shut in the midst of their nonsense, the only time their presence was noted
was when Bennet chastised, -"he least you could do is lead, 3arcy, for goodness' sa*e. 3o you
e!pect your lady to do all the wor*6.
-Anowing 3arcy, she might have to,. Bingley said with an e!aggerated roll of the eyes, bursting
out in a grin at the annoyed loo* sent his way.
Bennet rolled his eyes, draping himself on the seat 3arcy had previously occupied. -& pity, my
mother was convinced that no man *nows how to be a gentleman anymore, and I am afraid
after this display, she may be right..
-"wo men brawling is hardly the death of chivalry..
-8ou *illed 0ary's favorite flowers..
-&nd she has our sincerest apologies..
-If you would be so *ind as to e!tend that to both my sister Eli2abeth and 4ane that would be
marvelous..
-;as 3arcy's proposal that terrible6 &nd Bingley's too6.
-/ardly,. the latter claimed, -I was chivalrous:. "he dear man was puffing his chest out li*e a
proud rooster, no one in the room blamed him, he had gotten all he wanted out of today @ an
arrangement with a woman he truly loved and who loved him right bac*.
9ichard *new the feeling, but still, he played along. ."hen it was you cousin:.
-I did no such thing,. 3arcy answered, turning fully to as* the young man, eyes dangerously
narrow, -who proposed to 0iss Eli2abeth6. "he events in the wood previous to his cousin's
rather dramatic arrival to /ertfordshire, had almost escaped him and though he remembered
that the object of his affection had already been offered for, he had no recollection of who it was.
-"hat toad, Collins..
-3id he not propose to 4ane6. Bingley as*ed, confused.
-"o them both,. his future brother replied, still loo*ing quite miffed at the thought, -which is why
all men are toads in her eyes, you are luc*y Bingley, that my father informed everyone of your
proper courtship of my dearest sister 4ane. 5therwise my mother would have beaten you to
death with the leg of lamb we partoo* in..
-&nd it was a delicious leg of lamb,. 9ichard added, sagely.
3arcy found himself nodding in agreement. -It would be a good death..
-8es, completely honorable..
-But what happened to the odious man6 8our father begged me leave to deal with him, was he
dispatched accordingly6. Bingley inquired, -I would have shot the man myself but ).
-I am afraid that honor goes to me sir,. 0r. Bennet, the senior, said, going practically unnoticed
since his son's announcement. "he elderly man, despite having a former colonel in his wa*e,
had managed to elude their notice @ and was now ma*ing himself comfortable at a des* several
paces away, busying himself with rearranging the letters littering the writing table.
-1orgive us, sir we did not see you..
-&s was my desire,. answered he, -but I felt that I had to answer for my nephew's presence. /e
is no longer residing at ongbourn 0anor..
/is son sat up straighter. -Is he in a ditch somewhere6.
&n amused smile pulled at the corner of his lips. -&fraid not. But he is, as far as I *now, en route
bac* to Aent. &long with a very displeased note penned to his ever gracious and condescending
ady Catherine of 9osings..
Considering the elderly gentleman with his room full of boo*s, his house filled with family, and
his wealth of *nowledge and understanding of the human condition and its idiosyncrasies, 3arcy
surmised something shoc*ing, -"hat is crueler than putting him in a ditch..
-&ye,. he claimed a twin*le in his eye. -But he deserved it..
.
-/ow unusual,. mama uttered as she *ept herself busy with her needlewor*.
It had become a routine in the past half an hour since their father summoned their male guests
to the library, and during those precious thirty minutes, their mother speculated her husband's
reasoning. It was 0ary's turn to reply, -I am sure it is of no import..
"hey had e!hausted the topic of 0r. Bennet, out of familial love $and possibly out of pity% spo*e
to the titled 9ichard 1i2william, future ord 0atloc*, on behalf of Charlotte7 and even returned to
dance around in the field of flowers that was 4ane's official courtship with 0r. Bingley#
-I am not even angry my dear,. the matron had told her eldest, -after hearing of 0r. Collins'
display as well as coming to terms with 0r. Stewart and 0r. 3arcy's behavior towards you, 0r.
Bingley seems li*e a fine young man. 1ive thousand a year is hardly a trifle.. &nd as if she
needed comforting for what could only be >settling', her mother patted her hand.
-"here is happiness abound,. Aitty declared, beaming, -4ane is to be happy, and so is
Charlotte:.
-(o such thing,. the lady denied.
ydia, at her side, giggled. -I told you that red coats were the finer men, and loo*, you have
entrapped one:.
-/e does not wear one dearest,. 4ane corrected to the dismissive wave of her youngest sister's
hand.
-=ish, he was still in the militia:.
-(o longer now, a titled lord, how proud your mama will be of you Charlotte:. 0rs. Bennet said,
giving the once a spinster a *ind smile.
-;ill you tell them Charlotte6. 0iss 3arcy as*ed carefully, *nowing the circumstances of her
former governess' familial situation.
-I do not *now,. the lady trailed before quic*ly adding, -there is nothing to tell:.
-5h, come now, we are all ladies and all friends here, you are allowed to be happy sweeting,.
Eli2abeth said pinching her friend's *nee jo*ingly. -/e will propose soon now that 0r. 3arcy's
tric* has been unveiled..
-& clever ploy,. 0ary approved, -simple, but effective. /e has learnt well from you all, has he
not6.
-/e learnt from i22y and she is the best of us,. Aitty answered with a grin, bumping shoulders
with said sister. -So than*s to them both, Charlotte and Colonel 1i2william shall be as happy as
4ane and 0r. Bingley:.
-/ow do we *now Colonel 1it2william has not yet offered for our dear Charlotte6. 4ane as*ed
slyly to the continuous reddening of the older girl's face to the point where she hid behind her
hands.
-"ell us, has he6. Aitty, ydia and even 0ary and 0iss 3arcy prodded at once, loo*ing to her
with pleading eyes. "he horde of them was enough to get the rest of the ladies to grin.
-5h the romanticism,. Charlotte cursed with a laugh. -/e has not, I assure you..
Eli2abeth wiggled her brows. -"hat loo* he gave you when 0r. 3arcy apologi2ed seemed to be
all the proposal you required..
"he room as at an uproar of scandali2ed gasps and giggles, above it, 0rs. Bennet claimed, -I
saw that as well, as much as I wish he could have offered for you dearest i22y, Charlotte
deserves some happiness in her life and I have never seen such emotion present in her
features as there was in that moment..
-It was better than the one on i22y's face when 0r. 3arcy apologi2ed to her for his duplicity,.
4ane said, win*ing at her favorite sister to more scandali2ed gasps amidst Eli2abeth's furious
denials.
-Indeed, if I had not *nown better, I would thin* he favors you i22y,. 0rs. Bennet commented,
to the continuous blossoming of color on her second eldest, before she noted everyone else's
snea*y e!pressions and e!claimed, -0y goodness, is today the day I let go of more than one
daughter6.
-;ell that depends on my brother,. 0iss 3arcy said with a smile, -perhaps he shall finally admit
to his emotions..
"he statement put more than one smile in the room, even when Eli2abeth was sha*ing her head
violently and trying to dissuade the tal*, ydia silenced it with her own announcement, -"he only
thing that would ma*e this any better is a ball7 a ball to celebrate all the happiness that we have
been blessed with:.
0ary snic*ered. -8ou only say that, so that you may wear your dress and dance with a
gentleman of your own..
-"wo couples and many more to come, I assure it: =lay us a tune 0ary, we must dance:. Even
with the absence of the melody of the pianoforte, ydia hopped to her feet and pulled ,eorgiana
up to hers, insisting, -3ance with me 0iss 3arcy, we have much to celebrate:.
.
ater that evening as everyone prepared for bed, the children congregating to 4ane and
Eli2abeth's room as always with Charlotte to join them, their parents adjoined to their own room
@ far more demure than their children.
Seated with her bac* facing her husband atop the counterpane of their bed, 0rs. Bennet fiddled
with her nightcap and sighed quietly to herself. "hose were the sighs not borne of her famous
nerves, but rather from a worry that truly gnawed at her, and her husband *new it when he
heard it.
-1anny, is something the matter6.
-(o+.
-1anny,. he began, -we have been married for more years than I can remember, and I
remember almost everything as you *now. Come now, I *now when you are upset+.
-I am not upset,. she stubbornly protested.
-"hen what was that sigh6.
-I did not sigh..
-E!haled loudly then,. he bargained, patient as always as he sat, facing her bac*, waiting for her
to say something because she inevitably would. 1anny made it quite easy for him to *now when
she was upset, so vocal was she in her feelings on any matter that troubled and pleased her
that his life was far easier than that of other gentlemen.
1ed up with restraining herself all day, she stood and turned to face him, throwing her night cap
onto the bed. -5ur children:. /is brow raised. -"hey are going off and growing up, on the verge
of marriage and eventually ).
-eaving+.
/er shoulders sagged. -8es+. She loo*ed down for a moment, before meeting his eyes sadly.
-"hey are growing up so quic*ly, one minute they were running about the house in all their glory
and now loo* at them+.
-8ou did not e!pect anything less though, did you my dear6.
-(o,. she answered before sha*ing her head furiously. -But not this fast: 5ne day they were all
together, laughing in 4ane and i22y's room, tal*ing through the night @ braiding each other's
hairs and teasing Ben mercilessly for doing it so well+.just yesterday, Ben had come home and
they prattled for hours about the assembly, li*e they were younger and we had ta*en them on
their first one+.
(oting her voice was trembling, her husband stood, wal*ing around the bed to wrap his arms
around her. -3earest, it is not so bad. Soon you shall have their great fortunes in life to brag to
your friends about at the ball, I *now how much you enjoy that,. he said teasingly.
-Soon we shall be alone in this house of ours+.
-&lone together, just li*e before,. he reminded, *issing her hair. -;ould that be so bad6 /ave
you gotten bored of me after all these years6 &re you thin*ing of ta*ing a lover to give you some
variety ).
-I am serious..
-&s am I,. he said, chuc*ling. -;e shall only be alone for a little while, Ben will marry and he
shall be here where we will be, e!cept we have no responsibilities li*e he will..
-8ou wish to do nothing with your time once Ben becomes master of ongbourn6 8ou wish to be
an invalid,. she challenged, po*ing his sides, -8ou will be old and fat with all the food you shall
eat, and drun* too:.
-5f course, what is old age without the leisure6.
She smiled at him as they pulled away to hold each other's hands, but worry still appeared in
her eyes. -3o you thin* they will be happy with their gentlemen and lady6 3o you thin* they
shall be good mothers, and a father6.
-;e did raise them7 I daresay we did a good job..
-"homas:.
aughing once more, he *issed her forehead. -8ou worry far too much my dear, they shall be
happy because that is what we taught them to be. "hey are all intelligent, witty and handsome7
they *now what they want in the world and they *now how to get it, the question is whether they
will be willing to ta*e the ris* as we have..
/er e!pression had eased, but as a natural worrier, it did not disappear completely. &s her
husband, he could not be frustrated by this7 instead he distracted her by ta*ing their clasped
hands and twirling them about the room, to her giggles.
-;e are dancing sir6.
-;e are indeed for there is much to celebrate, so come 0rs. Bennet, dance with your husband..
-;hat about ).
-&h, ah, ah,. he interjected, , -9ight now may seem li*e the end is nearing ) a beginning is on its
way, so smile bright my dear wife, there is more adventure for us yet..
.
&ct I# "he end in the beginning
(wenty-one years earlier
-8ou are nervous..
-&m I6 I had not noticed,. 0r. Bennet said in annoyance, still pacing the length of the hallway,
his agitation growing with every shrie* from down the hall. &gain, when he tried to beeline for
the door, 0r. ,ardiner refused.
-8ou must rela!..
-/ow6 0y wife is in pain in there, can you not hear her6. /e flinched as another shout made its
way through the wood, and again the urge to wretch open the door rose li*e bile in his throat.
-Sit down, before you wear a hole in the floor,. 0r. ,ardiner said, -&ll will be well..
-8ou do not *now that ).
-I do,. he disagreed, -my mother was much more sic*ly than yours, when 1anny was born, the
agony, the screaming+. /e shoo* his head. -But she survived it to have more children. 0y
sister will survive..
-;hat if she does not6 ;hat if she passes and the child ).
-She will not pass, and even if she did, you would not hate the child as your father hated you.
8ou are too good a man to do such a thing, and in anyway, 0rs. Bennet will survive this ordeal,
and you shall have a happy family li*e you deserve. Come man, a few hours more. 8our wife is
wor*ing hard in there, the least you can do is not interrupt her..
. -;hat if I cannot be a good father6 ord *nows 1anny will be a wonderful mother, but what if I
am an utter pounce at it6 ;hat if I ruin that child forever6.
-"he child would be ruined either way. "he world is not a pleasant place..
-3ear lord you are right, what was I thin*ing letting another human being into a world such as
this6 ;hat *ind of man am I6. /e was up and pacing again.
-"hat was not what I meant ).
-If it is a boy, he could be a cad, and do all the wrong things and get into duels of honor and die
with a sword through his heart before brea*fast was even served:.
-;ell yes, a pity that, he should have at least had his last meal ).
-&nd if it were a girl: Saints' have mercy, the militia stops here regularly, who *nows what might
happen to her:. /e was practically pulling his hair as he paced. -;hy did this have to happen at
all6 ;e can leave ongbourn to that cousin of mine and whatever thing he spawns: 1anny and I
were so happy before this, we do not need change7 change is horrible:.
-"homas,. 0r. ,ardiner called, grabbing him again to sit down, -you are overreacting man..
-;hat if I cannot do it Edward6 ;ith or without 1anny, what if I cannot do it6.
-I promise you when that baby arrives, you will *now. 8ou will loo* in their eyes, and you will
*now,. he answered, patting him on the shoulder. -Change is an inevitable thing, what will
happen will happen, all you can do is accept it as it does. 8our child will need you as 1anny
does..
-ucas said,. 0r. Bennet muttered, -that his wife does not love him as much as she did before
Charlotte was born. I am afraid now that 1anny will be the same. "hat this baby's beginning will
be our end..
-Every beginning starts with an end7 we have no control of either, only that we must do our best
with what we are given..
"he advice, no matter how meager, did serve to calm 0r. Bennet down, however, before they
could sit down again, a cry @ the cry of a child rang through the air and the new father's eyes
widened to the si2e of dinner plates.
-&re you ready6.
-(o+not at all..
.
6resent
;ithin two days there was a flurry of activity engulfing ongbourn and (etherfield due in part to
the banns being read that Charlotte ucas of ongbourn 0anor was to wed 9ichard 1it2william
of 0atloc*, as well as the gossip that 4ane Bennet and Charles Bingley were formally courting
ma*ing their rounds, as well as the accomplishment of ydia in coercing her father to host a ball
in both the couples' honor that very night.
-0y dear, I do not *now why you ma*e me suffer so,. the patriarch was saying as he waved off
yet another servant as*ing his opinion about this linen and that linen, and for goodness' sa*e,
he had no idea what the difference between them was:
-5h papa, are you not happy with the outcome of this6.
-/appy enough to agree, but not happy enough to enjoy it,. said he in moc*ing scorn, to the
chuc*le of his son.
-1ather this is a mere formality, once Bingley proposes there will be yet a bigger ball to attend
to..
-,ood lord, do you wish me an early grave6.
-;here did you get that idea6. Ben as*ed innocently.
ydia came to sit atop the windowsill beside the chessboard in front of the two gentlemen.
0oving a pawn to ta*e a *night, she said, -8ou will have to get used to us leaving sooner or
later, we are growing up after all..
-I thought I specifically told you that neither you, Aitty nor 0ary is allowed to..
Ben feigned disappointment. -;hat of me have you no desire to *eep your only son6.
-5nce you gather the courage to face 0r. 3arcy, I gather I shall be rid of you anyway,. was the
reply, -do not thin* your mother and I have not noticed your attentions towards his sister..
-I am merely showing her around, this is the first place she has seen since 9amsgate, a little
supervised e!ploration can hardly be disagreeable to him..
-;hen he finds out that you esteem her, he might be disagreeable,. ydia informed with a
chuc*le.
-/ardly fair,. her brother responded with a pout, -I have not said a word against him for
esteeming i22y..
0r. Bennet dropped the chess piece he was about to move. -&nd why has no one told me about
this before now6.
-Because I am about to win,. Ben claimed, moving his bishop to ta*e the queen. -Chec*mate..
.
%everal years before
"he flowers were newly blossomed, and the s*y cloudless and cheerfully blue. "he country air
was gloriously cool to combat the heat of the sun, as the trees provided both shade and fruit,
ready to be enjoyed while green fields ran free and rampant for miles on end. If only he could do
the same.
-;hat am I doing6.
-I am not sure..
-8ou are not supposed to say that,. he grumbled testily as he continued to pace, touching his
mouth and ruining the wor* of his manservant by running his hand through his hair. -8ou are
supposed to tell me how this is all meant to be, that I am marrying the woman I love and that
there is nothing I should be worried about..
-5h but then I would be lying,. his brother)in)law declared.
-"homas:.
/e chuc*led. -;hat do you want me to say Edward6.
-,ive me advice,. he answered, -I did the same for you when 4ane was born, and i22y, and the
twins and ).
-0y goodness, I really am a frightened fool..
;ithout missing a beat, 0r. ,ardiner agreed in *ind.
-"o be fair, I have always had trouble accepting change. 8ou, however, have gone with the wind
as they say,. 0r. Bennet commented, -I do not *now why you worry yourself so, you are
marrying someone who truly cares for you. ;hat is there to worry about6.
-;hat if I am a terrible husband6.
-3ear lord above, have some creativity, I as*ed you the same thing when I got married..
-&nd loo* where it got you..
-& happy wife with four children and another one on the way, your point6.
/e grumbled under his breath. -I should have thought better of that, why could you not be as
unhappy as the rest of the married men in England6.
-Because my uncle gave me some very simple advice# -/appy wife, happy life.. &nd then you
gave me a gem that was this# Change is inevitable7 the end of one thing always means the
beginning of something else. (ow ta*e my uncle's advice, and your own, and strive to be as
happy as I. I am obliged to tell you as well, that your wife)to)be has a very frightful brother, and I
have no mind to anger him so if you plan to run away with your tail between your legs, I want no
part in it..
.
6resent
-&nd there are sprites in this forest6. ,eorgiana as*ed, as she and 0iss Cath ) Aitty traipsed
beyond the boundary of the ongbourn estate.
-8es, normally I climb the trees to try and find them, but your dress is too fine to be ruined by
such an adventure. 0ama will surely have a fit and I do not thin* your relations will appreciate
the possibility of you getting hurt accomplishing such a tas*..
-(e!t time I shall wear an ugly one, then I would not mind at all,. she said to her companion's
giggle.
In the two days since her arrival to the quaint county, she had found contentment in it.
,eorgiana had never been around so many people as she had here, and all of them were
perfectly engaging and *ind to her. She, along with 9ichard, had stayed in ucas odge despite
0r. Bingley's invitation to ma*e use of his home @ 9ichard did not desire to be at the mercy of a
fortune hunter as 0iss Bingley, and her brother was disappointed at the prospect of being rid of
her attentions.
/er cousin's reasoning was simple, -;e all have our crosses to bear. 0ine was the war. 8ours
is insipid fortune hunters. I wish you well in eluding her suit, write to me on how you plan to
survive and at the end of it all we shall drin* to either your victory in escaping her, or misery of
being entrapped by her..
-8our faith in me is insulting,. was her brother's response.
In the present though, ,eorgiana would be doing some hunting of her own.
In the mornings and afternoons, and whatever time could be spent, she joined Aitty and
Eli2abeth on their little hunts and adventures in the wood $Eli2abeth's trail was more strenuous,
but the views were incredible @ and she got to join her brother as well%. 5ther times she would
play the pianoforte and read with 0ary, or go into 0eryton with 4ane and ydia7 anytime that
could be spared would be left for 0iss Bingley and 0rs. /urst, which were few and far between
$to her suppressed joy%.
She had grown close to them in her short stay which helped to calm any nervousness her
brother and cousin had, and greatly agitated 0iss Bingley.
-/ow do you go about finding sprites6.
-"hey are said to find us+but what I have read of them is that they attract butterflies to where
they have done their magic,. she stated.
-;hat sort of magic do they perform6.
-0iracles my dear 0iss 3arcy:.
Smiling, she as*ed, -So we shall loo* for butterflies then6.
-"hat would be a place to start,. Aitty agreed, -though it will be hard since winter is fast
approaching. I am not sure there will be any to be honest+.
-/ave faith, we shall find them: By the by7 where did you come to hear of these sprites6.
-8our brother told me of them,. answered she before gasping, lightly hitting ,eorgiana on the
shoulder in her e!citement bouncing on the balls of her feet. -oo*: 3id you see it6.
-See what6.
;ithout reply, Aitty ran ahead, chasing some invisible creature only she saw. -Come on
,eorgiana, we shall lose it:.
-8ou saw one6.
-&ye, I thin* I did:.
"hey both ran over a hill overloo*ing a heavier foliage of wood, Aitty, without stopping to catch
her breath declared, -&fter it:.
Clumsy from the impromptu e!ertion, ,eorgiana, slowed, hand at her side where a stitch was
pulling, un*nowingly catching her foot under a root and tumbling down after she tried to ta*e a
step @ *noc*ing Aitty off her feet in the process. uc*ily the hill was not overly large, but still
enough to set the two in a heap at the bottom of the hill, groaning to themselves.
;hen their bearings returned, they untangled themselves and loo*ed about, it was there that
they noticed, across from them and sitting beneath a tree, her brother and Eli2abeth were
tal*ing, and was it her, or were they sitting closer than what was allowed6
-,eorgiana,. Aitty whispered, awed, -loo*+.
/overing above their siblings, dancing in the sun, a butterfly flic*ed by.
-5n your guard my friend, a miracle is about to ta*e place and we shall witness it+.
.
%everal years earlier
-=apa, papa, loo* what I can do papa:.
-5h 4ane, be careful dear,. 0rs. Bennet said, holding onto little 0ary and Benjamin's hand as
they too* their afternoon wal* around ongbourn's property.
-<ery good my 4ane:. /is father cheered, pic*ing her up from under her arms and swinging her
about to 4ane's shrie*s, and Eli2abeth's declarations, -0e ne!t papa, me ne!t:.
-"homas,. his wife scolded, -stop indulging them..
-But what is a father to do without that6.
"heir girls giggled and danced atop the fallen log, jumping from being on it to the ground below
it, singing some song /ill had taught them to sing when they did needlewor* or some other
needless feminine tas* he had no choice but to be impressed with. It was no good wanting his
children to be accomplished if he had no interest in their education and abilities, a singular thing,
according to his wife, who was no doubt impressed with his dedication to his children.
-0ost would not even care,. she reminded.
-0y children are only young once, and when they grow older I do not want to be a stranger to
them. Besides, if you can play games with them so can I..
-5h, but it will ma*e it harder for you to give them away, do you not thin*6.
/e paused. -"hat is true. 8our father practically threw you at me..
-;hich I was grateful for by the way7 I would have been a spinster without you..
-8ou give yourself too little credit my dear7 you are a true gem indeed..
/is lady blushed prettily, but she shooed him away out of embarrassment. -Still, you will be a
very difficult man to please when your daughters' gentlemen come along to ta*e them away..
-Every end has a beginning, and when that time comes, I will be ready,. he stated firmly. -uc*ily
that is a long time from now and I am free to horde my children all I want..
.
6resent
"he preparations for the ball was absolute chaos, and a wal* around 0eryton was not to be @
ever since the banns had been read, the inhabitants of /ertfordshire would clamor to the
Bennet girls, their mother and father as well as their brother, for news# ;as it true that their
charge, Charlotte ucas, the spinster, had entrapped the titled 9ichard 1it2william6 ;as it true
that 4ane and 0r. Bingley were formally courting6 ;hat of 0r. Stewart6 ;hatever happened to
that cousin of theirs, 0r. Collins' was it6 &nd this young lady, 0iss 3arcy, is she a single lady of
large fortune6 ;ho is courting her6 ;hat of you, 0iss Eli2abeth @
She shoo* her head, leaning it against the trun* of a tree she had found refuge sitting under.
-8ou loo* utterly e!hausted..
5pening her eyes, she was not surprised at the presence of 0r. 3arcy and &chilles. Both of
them had been joining her in the wood for the past two days.
-I am..
3espite the earlier teasing of her sisters, mother and two friends, she was determined not to
place much thought in their words. /appiness for one was not always happiness for all. Surely
everyone merely wanted to prolong or intensify their gratification with yet another courtship or
marriage proposal, there was no need to complicate a perfectly good friendship.
/e interrupted her further thoughts on the matter tentatively, -"he preparations for the ball are
harrowing6.
-5f course, my mother wishes everything to be perfect,. she answered, squinting up at him, the
sun behind him shining in her eyes and hiding his e!pression from her. -;ill you not sit sir6.
-(o, I.... /e loo*ed away. -"his forest is lovely..
/er lips pulled into a half smile. "he growing amount of time that they were in each other's
company was enough for her to understand when he was feeling uncomfortable and for him to
push past his aggression when he was embarrassed. &t this point, she regrettably found his
behavior charming.
-I mean, all nature is beautiful, but I+I find that this place+magnificent,. he finished, his eyes
landing on her, still loo*ing up at him in mild amusement. ?ncomfortably, he cleared his throat
and added, -&utumn is my favorite season..
(oting the heat fanning his nec*, creeping out of the intricately tied cravat, and the huff of
annoyance from his horse who was sha*ing his head, Eli2abeth offered, -It is mine too..
/er smile widened at his surprise. -=eople thin* it is a depressing time, when all things die. But
nature has no time to mourn, only move forward and pave the way for the beginning of
something else. 8ou can feel it in the air. It does not just feel crisper, there is a sense of magic in
it when the leaves curl gold @ li*e something great is about to happen..
"he intensity of his ga2e weighed on her, as if something too was about to happen now.
/owever, she pushed on despite the frantic pulsations of her heart, -"here is always something
breathta*ing about seeing something on the verge of a new beginning.. /er eyes wandered a
little to find a sil*y white cocoon hanging off the edge of a twig. -Come see.. ;ith a deft gesture
his way, the man found himself following suit and coming to *neel in front of her to face the
branch with the little cocoon on it.
-It is changing, as all things do+.
-;hen it has changed will it still be considered breathta*ing6. he as*ed, his eyes flic*ering to
see her face, practically at the edge of his nose.
-It will,. answered she with a smile unaware of the concentration the gentleman was putting on
her chee* as he continued to stare. ;hen he did not reply, she loo*ed to him, unmoving.
-;hat if it is not6.
-It will be..
"hey were silent, watching the little cocoon tremble.
-;hen my father passed away, it was the beginning of spring @ a season of beginnings and life,
I was mista*en,. said he, and it was her turn to focus on him7 drawn to the sad flic*er in eyes
and his clenched jaw, but his e!pression was not all sad, in fact, he loo*ed determined. -/e was
in bed for two days before he passed7 he wished to tell me all that he could since he *new time
was not on his side. But he was happy, deliriously so. /e was going to see my mother again..
-,eorgiana told me about her, the stories you shared+.
/e shoo* his head. -0y words cannot capture how wonderful she was, truly the only way she
could be described in how wholly she was loved was summed up by the loo* my father had
every time she wal*ed into the room.. /is ga2e met hers again and the tiny hairs at the bac* of
her nec* stood at attention.
-0y father told me that he met my mother in the summer long before he fell in love with her.
"hey were close friends as children, they e!plored together and teased each other mercilessly7
no one was ever as close as they were, and it was because of that that everyone assumed they
would wed one day. (either of them too* it seriously, but in the autumn of his twenty)fourth,
something changed li*e all things in nature do,. he said, a half smile on his lips, and in this
vulnerable moment under the canopy of bare branches and golden sunlight, Eli2abeth was
transfi!ed.
-&re you fond of change, 0iss Eli2abeth6.
-Even if I was not, I could not stop it,. she murmured quietly. -Change is inevitable..
-;ould you try to stop it though6 1ight it in some way6. he as*ed, his voice going lower, and
possibly by her own imagination, nearing her with caution, his fine blue eyes wondrously
hypnoti2ing.
"hat feeling of magic in the air that autumn brought with it felt li*e it was bursting inside of her
by the time their noses brushed, the inevitable pull of change tugging at her li*e she was a
puppet on a string. &nd despite her bulwar*s against any *ind of romantic inclination towards
the tall, handsome man, she crumbled and yielded.
"hey *issed.
"he butterfly escaped its prison to join another already in the air and together they were free.
Every end meets a beginning, and every beginning starts with an end.
.
;ini
Authors note
"he second part of Sibling Intervention will involve /unsfordJady Catherine and =emberley,
and is written to e!plore the transforming relationships of the characters previously mentioned.
9eading the second part is unnecessary, but done because I love playing in the =ride and
=rejudice sandbo! and also to address further possibilities. "he unedited second part $still
untitled% will be uploaded separately on 11( as I don't want to sacrifice the quality of Sibling
Intervention by adding on fifty or so chapters when readers could be happy enough to end here.
"han* you in advance for reading, your feedbac* is much appreciated so feel free to leave me
your thoughts at either 11( by sending me a review or by writing me an email
a*pKDLMymail.com