Section I, Next Section
Chapter 1 Posted on Saturday, 12 June 1999
Who will believe my verse in time to come,
If it were fill'd with your most high deserts?
Though yet, heaven knows, it is but as a tomb
Which hides your life and shows not half of your parts.
If I could write the beauty of your eyes
And in fresh numbers number all your graces,
The age to come would say 'This poet lies:
Such heavenly touches ne'er touch'd earthly faces.'
So should my papers yellow'd with their age
Be scorn'd like old men of less truth than tongue,
And your true rights be term'd a poet's rage
And stretched metre of na antique song:
But were some child of yours alive that time,
You should live twice; in it and in my rhyme.~ Sonnet XVII, Shakespeare
This sonnet has been haunting him for some days. Looking at the mirror, Darcy remembered her words:
"I wonder who first discovered the efficacy of poetry in driving away love!"
He sighed. "I wish I could write some verses on you and forget you at once!" It was a hard night. Not only did he have to put up with the local savages, but also hide his feelings concerning one of them.
He knows he had controlled himself until the middle of the ball. However, it was not possible to restrain himself any longer not after having seen her standing up with that stupid clergyman; nor after observing her wonderful smiles while dancing with that officer (he had heard their conversation, they were talking about... Wickham !)...
He could not avoid inviting Elizabeth to dance and making a fool of himself. She argued all the set long and slapped him down with insinuations about his "old friend". What would Wickham have told her? What did she want with those questions? He could not figure out.
Despite their argument, he was completely mesmerised her touch, her eyes, her voice are still hurting his soul, even after the horrible show of impropriety given by her family.
He looked at the mirror once again. "What should I do?"
Follow the same advice you gave to your friend: leave Hertfordshire and never come back again..., the voice of reason told him.
"Ahn..."
"Oh yes, Morrisey". The valet was staring at him. Darcy was so distracted that he did not realised that his servant had already finished his duty.
The master has been strange lately! Can it be possible he is attracted to one of those two country misses who stayed here in the beginning of the month? Morrisey, being perfectly aware of his position, had tried to avoid the gossip in the kitchen when the others servants started pairing off his master with the dark miss, but when he realised Mr. Darcy's odd behaviour, he could not stop wondering about it.
"Do you need anything else, sir?"
"No, that is all. I shall need you as soon as I come back from Meryton".
"I hope the local blacksmith may help you, sir."
"So do I."
Chapter 2A Posted on Sunday, 13 June 1999
His horse did not need horseshoes, but Darcy was desperate for escaping from Miss Bingley. He could not stand staying at Netherfield without his friend. Caroline would not leave him alone and certainly she would tease him about his dance with a lady with "fine eyes".
Poor Charles... Darcy could still see the deception in his friend's eyes. After Bingley's sisters had retired last night, they went to Bingley's library so that they could have a last drink as well as talk a little without the ladies' interference.
"What a delightful evening! I have never been so happy before..."
And I have never been such a fool before..., Darcy thought but only snorted.
"Good God, Darcy. It was a good time even for you! I saw you dancing with Miss Bennet..."
"With Miss Jane Bennet? Impossible! You did not leave her alone for a second!"
"You know who I mean. You danced with Miss Elizabeth and only with her..."
"She is a good dancer..."
"You are good too. You should do this more often. You looked as light as a feather. Although I sometimes had the impression you were fencing...as you always do when you meet each other..."
Darcy did not answer to this.
"I must leave you now, my friend. I shall be traveling to London very early. I want to solve this matter quickly."
"Take all the time you need. You do not need to come back in a hurry. Netherfield is not going to move."
"But some people may move their minds. Darcy, as my best friend, you will be the first one to know: I am also going to town in order to buy a ring the most beautiful ring Miss Bennet has already seen. I am going to propose marriage to her when I come back."
Darcy swallowed his brandy hard, So, Sir William was right everybody was right! Only he had not realised, lost he was in his struggle. He had to warn his friend, he could not let his friend make this mistake! "Bingley, you are being hasty!"
"Darcy, we have seen each other for almost two months! It is time enough to know what I feel and want."
"You said the same in the past at least five times!"
"It is different now! I know. I have never felt in this way before... Darcy, you do not know what being in love is - you wake up and see her face; you day-dream with her; you go to bed and your last thoughts are about her; finally, you fall asleep only to dream with her angelic smiles... No, you can not guess what it is."
No, Bingley. You can not guess how I have been longing for a certain miss... "Bingley, if your intention was making poetry, I may say it was very bad indeed..."
"Don't be sarcastic..."
"Be realistic she has no money, no connections..."
"Stop it, Darcy. My dear sisters made the same speech twenty minutes ago. They just added the fact that Miss Bennet's relatives are in trade and I had to remind them that our money came from trade too. Nothing will stop me. I do not care about her (lack of) fortune. I am rich, I have connections and I am going to give her what she deserves. I love her and she loves me..."
"Does she?"
"I beg your pardon..."
"Is Jane Bennet really in love with you?"
Chapter 2 B Posted on Wednesday, 16 June 1999
Bingley gaped at his friend. "I think she is!"
"You think but you are not sure."
"For heavens, Darcy. She would not throw herself into my arms and declare her feelings! She is a lady!"
"Of course she is. But being one does not mean she can not hint what she feels... Bingley, there is no doubt she is flattered by your attentions, I dare say she enjoys your company. However, she does not day-dream with you, not long with you she does not love you!"
Bingley got pale and his eyes opened more if that were possible "How could you know? Has Miss Elizabeth mentioned anything to you?", and he sank into the nearest chair.
"Miss Elizabeth would not mention anything to me! But it is crystal clear if you propose marriage, she will accept it. She is pretty aware of her condition in life, you may be her last source of dignity, safety and money!"
Bingley stood up angrily, "She is not a gold-digger!"
"I am not telling this. Though I am sure she would accept you without love you. And even if she did not want to do it, her mother would force her..."
"My love would be enough for us? How many people do get married without being in love? You will probably have to bear one like this..."
Darcy pretended not to listen to that. "Do not be naοve! In marriages of convenience at least people are in the same position. They are joining their fortune... In marrying Miss Bennet you would have to bear her family as well as society you would have Mrs. Bennet's lack of propriety to reckon with; Mary Bennet killing the piano at your house and frightening the surrounding beings. You would also have to avoid young officers' society every time the younger sisters were around. Not to mention Mr. Bennet's witty but inconvenient remarks..."
Bingley was getting lost. In a low voice, he said "Darcy, please..."
"But I have not mentioned their relations here and the relatives in Cheapside yet..."
"Darcy, I beg you..."
But Darcy was not listening to him anymore. Actually, he did not whether he was screaming to his friend or to himself the reasons for not marrying a Bennet. "Ah, the society in London would love scorning your in-laws and you too!"
"I have already told you I would endure anything with her by my side!"
"After some time you would hate her..."
"Never!"
"Yes, you would. Because you would be giving her everything but you would receive nothing! You would hate her for having lost your friends, your relations... Do you believe you could bear all of this and still love without return ? You would be a saint!"
Bingley sighed and looked at Darcy, who turned his face away to not see the pain in his friend's eyes. He could feel the soil falling over his head*. "I do not know what I should do. I thought she loved me, that she was only too reserved to show her feelings..."
"The best thing to do is to leave Hertfordshire and never come back again! You can not risk your future marrying in this way. I am sure you will meet a lady who will return equally your affection and will not demand such a sacrifice."
Bingley walked to the window and stared at nothing (without noticing, he was copying his friend's weird behaviour).He was hardly holding back the tears. "I am leaving tomorrow early. I hope to meet my family and you in town in two days."
"Charles, you will recover from this. I assure you."
"Darcy, I am really sorry, but I think I do not need your pity!", having said this, he left the room hastily, unable to control his tears anymore.
*Mother, I can feel the soil falling over my head, "I know it's over", The Smiths.
Chapter 3 Posted on Saturday, 19 June 1999
Though the weather before the ball had been awful, today was really a beautiful day sunny and with a blue sky that seemed to be able to erase any strong feeling or bad thought.
Darcy was sitting on a bench under a tree. It was a very strategic place because of the high bush surrounding the bench, he could see without being seen. As a result, he was able to observe the customers in the blacksmith's while waiting for the horseshoes. He had not wanted to stay inside since there were too much "red coats" there what meant that Wickham could arrive at any moment. Darcy would not risk another chance meeting with that man.
Darcy was just passing mentally what he should do before leaving Hertfordshire when he heard giggles. There were some people in the other side of the bush, a red coat and the two youngest Bennets. Oh Lord!, he thought, Would I never get rid of them?
"Oh Denny, we really had a good time at the ball. How could we not have ? We danced all night long with such handsome officers!", Lydia said.
They laughed again. Darcy decided it was better to grab his horse and hurry back to Netherfield. He was standing up when he heard:
"It was a pity that Mr. Wickham could not attend the ball.", and Lydia sighed.
"Yes, he had to solve some business in London but I think he will be back soon. Look, here he is." The ladies turned around to see Mr. Wickham approaching them.
"Hello, fellow! Good morning Miss Katherine, Miss Lydia.", and Wickham bowed to them.
"Good morning", said Lydia and Kitty. "Oh, you do not need to be so formal with us. We are friends! You may call us Lydia and Kitty.", added Lydia quickly.
"As you wish. And you should call me Wickham."
"We missed you so much yesterday...", the girls said in unison.
"I am deeply sorry, but I really had to be out." He continued in a flirting way, "However, I am sure there will be other occasions for dancing with such pretty and agreeable ladies!"
Lydia mentioned, "I think Lizzy missed you too. She had to dance with our dear cousin", Kitty and Lydia exchanged a look of deep disgust. "But you will not believe who singled her out..."
"Ahn, Mr. Bingley?", Wickham knew that could not be so odd, but he was only teasing the girls."
"Oh Wickham", Lydia stamped her foot. "Mr. Bingley has already danced with Lizzy and other girls! It was a gentleman who never dances..."
"Who could be so tedious?" asked Kitty mysteriously.
"Mr. Darcy!", cried Lydia.
Darcy snorted at it. He, tedious? Certainly for this kind of lady!
"Did he ask her to dance?" asked an astonished Wickham.
"Yes, and he danced only with her." "That is quite surprising!", exclaimed Wickham. Would Darcy be interested in Miss Elizabeth? Ah, this conquest will be much more interesting than I expected!, thought Wickham.
Still behind the bush, Darcy was getting impatient. He knew he was eavesdropping, but he could not avoid it if he stood up now, Wickham could see him. Therefore, he would have to wait until they had gone away.
"Pray, are your other sisters also here?", asked Wickham.
"Jane and Mary stayed at home, but Lizzy came with us. Poor girl, she needed to go out, otherwise my mother would not stop disturbing her.", said Lydia.
"Yes, mama is pretty angry with Lizzy", continued Kitty.
Lydia could hardly restrain herself. She wanted to tell everybody about the ridiculous proposal Mr. Collins had made to her sister. "Mama is furious with her because she refused Mr. Collins as her future husband!"
Denny and Wickham exchanged glances. They were hardly keeping a straight face. It was so ridiculous Mr. Collins had asked Miss Elizabeth to marry him and Lydia was revealing what her sister would certainly like to conceal.
In his hiding-place, Darcy was lost in his feelings. He did not know how to sort them out, let alone control them. He was astonished by the clergyman's presumption in proposing marriage to such a remarkable woman; he was proud of her; he was quite relieved, although he did not desire to understand why (or he pretended not to understand it). And he was ashamed of Lydia's behaviour how could she have revealed so much of her family's personal affairs to strangers?"
Darcy's thoughts were interrupted by Denny's question, "And where is Miss Elizabeth now?"
"Oh, I think she is strolling near my aunt's house. Go there and fetch her, Kitty."
Darcy squinted through the thorns of the bush. Kitty was coming back with Miss Elizabeth. The lady had a serious countenance but her lips drew a smile when she saw Wickham. Darcy's heart stopped beating she was the vision of beauty itself! He could not continue lying to himself. He had come to Meryton in the hope of seeing her for the last time! And here he was, a prayer worshipping his god, and she was smiling at his worse enemy!
He cursed his position again... He needed to leave! He could not stand this torture anymore! Not even Tantalus had suffered so much...
After exchanging the usual civilities, the ladies and the officers talked for some time. Eventually, Elizabeth reminded her sisters that they should go back home. The officers offered to walk with them till out of the city. Lydia thought she had a better idea,
"Would you like to come with us?"
"I think we should not.", said Wickham to Elizabeth. "We were not properly invited and..."
Lydia interrupted, "Oh, nobody cares... Mama will be happy with your visit!"
Elizabeth knew the invitation was improper but there was nothing she could do now.
"Well, shall we go?" Wickham asked them, accepting Lydia's invitation. She could not imagine how this invitation suited his plans.
The ladies left first, with Wickham and Denny behind. Wickham told Denny,
"I think I have lost my watch. Would you help me to find it?", and they came back to the bush.
In a low voice, Wickham told Denny, "Distract Lydia and Kitty. Stay behind, if possible. The General will have fun today!" But it was loud enough to Darcy to understand what his enemy had said.
They had been walking for about twenty minutes. It was relief for Elizabeth to talk to someone so interesting after that horrible morning (Mr. Collins and after, her mother)... Wickham was such an amiable man!
They had been talking about many about subjects. Wickham explained he had not been at the ball as he had wanted to avoid a scene with the odious Mr. Darcy. He had also described Miss Darcy's character as proud and disagreeable as her brother. Elizabeth was so delighted with Mr. Wickham's conversation that she did not realised that they were alone!
She stopped. "Where are they? They were just behind us some minutes ago..."
"Do not worry, Miss Elizabeth. I think they walk more slowly than us... Would you not like to sit down? There is a log over there..."
They walked to the log and sat down. Wickham started talking again but Elizabeth could not pay attention anymore. Her sisters had really exaggerated today. Not only had they flirted with all the officers in Meryton, but they had also invited two of them to Longbourn without asking their father's permission. Moreover, they had stayed behind, leaving her completely alone with a man!
"Are you unwell, Miss Bennet? You look so distant..."
"I am sorry, but I think we should go back and search for them..."
Wickham noticed he had to be fast.
"You can not imagine how I have missed you, Miss Bennet. Were I a poet, I would have written some verses on you and I would declare them right now!"
Although Elizabeth was amazed, she said nothing. What a strange way of speaking... He sounded like Mr. Collins! Then she looked at his eyes and she got afraid she had not seen affection, not love there, but lust! She tried to stand up, but Wickham stopped her by holding her left arm.
"We are alone here, Elizabeth. I know you have been longing for my kisses, for me", having said that, he hugged her.
"Are you out of your mind, sir? If you...", but she could not complete her sentence as he pressed his lips on hers and started kissing her.
She made an attempt to free herself by pushing his shoulders. He released her lips and she screamed,
"Who do you think I am? Let me go!" He did not answer and tightened her body up. He laid her back on the log and kissed her again. Elizabeth tried to use her knees as a way to escape from him, but she failed. She was completely out of action.
His right hand was trying to touch her bosom. When he thought he would be able to do it at last, he trembled in anticipation of the pleasure he would feel. However, the next thing he felt was two strong hands lifting him by his shoulders and flinging him to the ground as well as the feeling of something hard hurting his backside.
"Leave her alone, scoundrel!"
That voice... Did he know that man? Wickham had not looked at his face yet... He stood up ready to punch the stupid bastard who had interrupted him. He almost fell down when he saw the man's face...
"D-Darcy?!"
Chapter 4 Posted on Saturday, 26 June 1999
Darcy had heard what Wickham had told to Denny. He had got very alarmed as when they were younger, Wickham had often used the same infamous expression about "the General" before pursuing the maids of Pemberley or the tenants' daughters. At that time, their relationship had already started deteriorating since Darcy did not agree with Wickham's way of enjoying himself.
As soon as the ladies and the officers had departed, Darcy had hurried back to the blacksmith's in order to take his horse and follow them. He had taken a parallel track, hidden by tall trees. He had become proficient in lurking lately... Actually, he had only realised what he was doing when he was almost a mile distant from Meryton!
He thought he was being ridiculous and that he would not be able to give a plausible explanation of his actions were he "caught". Nevertheless, he could not avoid an ominous feeling which increased even more when he saw what Denny was doing: he was distracting Miss Bennet's sisters by drawing her attention away and leading them through another path. Elizabeth and Wickham were alone...
It was faster than he had thought. They sat on the log. After some minutes, Elizabeth tried to stand up and Wickham stopped her. He kissed her! She screamed... She did not want him! He knew he had to stop Wickham and so he did.
"D-Darcy?!"
Darcy pretended not to listen to him and turned back to Elizabeth (who was laid on the ground), but keeping an eye on the rogue. In a worried voice, he asked:
"Are you unwell, Miss Bennet?"
Wickham had released her in such an unexpected way that she had fell down and hit her forehead on the ground. In fact, she was very dizzy, though she did not know whether her present condition was due to the fall or to Mr. Darcy's sudden and surprising appearance.
"I-I am quite well. I thank you, sir."
"Are you really certain of this?" Darcy took her hands and helped her to sit on the log again. They listened to some applause.
"Fantastique! The perfect gentleman and the perfect lady! Exchanging civilities... Typical you, Darcy!
"I would rather exchange civilities with her than disfigure you!"
"You?! The great gentleman! Would the mighty master of Pemberley stoop so low? Would you act as a simple mortal because of a country flower?" he had to be sarcastic, otherwise he could betray the fear he was feeling.
"I would do this for any lady who needed to be rescued from you!"
Wickham knew he had already lost Elizabeth. But he would not allow Darcy to have her he would abuse him in front of her. She had believed in him once, why not now? He continued:
"The situation is perfect for you, my dear fellow. Two sisters for two friends you have a pleasant time and after you leave them behind, returning to the ladies of good breeding of London..."
"That is not my character, nor Charles's, I assure you. On the other hand, I would not affirm the same about yours."
"Come, Darcy. We have known each other since childhood. You are incensed with me because I arrived first and stole your toy. Had I approached her after you had used her, you would not care at all! Though I may say she is not an easy task. She resisted bravely! She did not facilitate for me like certain young ladies of 'good breeding' who look forward to throwing themselves into a man's arms does," Wickham finished, making a clear reference to Georgiana.
Darcy did not know whom Wickham had insulted more: Elizabeth, Georgiana or him! He could not contain his anger anymore! He would do what he should have done last summer! He slapped Wickham and said:
"I am challenging you to a duel!"
Duel? Damn it, Darcy!, Wickham thought. He had to think fast, he could not face Darcy in a duel! He could use neither a sword nor a pistol so good as Darcy did! He had to solve this problem here and now! Therefore, instead of continuing his previous plan, he decided to provoke him...
Meanwhile, Elizabeth was getting worse her head was aching and she felt she could faint at any moment. She passed her hand on her head and she noticed something wet. Blood she was bleeding! Her dizziness increased... However, her curiosity had been arisen, she could not pass out now! It could be the last time she would have to comprehend these two men's characters... She made an effort to listen to what they were saying:
"Duel?" Wickham yelled out. "Oh, how lust can prevail over brotherhood! You did not even punch me when I tried to elope with your sister!" he completed with an odious smile.
Darcy became red. Ah, how he would love to strangle him right now... But he had already realised Wickham's intention. Darcy knew that any violent act he could do now would affect Miss Bennet's reputation or even Georgiana's! It would be a scandalous if Wickham were found dead or badly injured in such circumstances! How would Miss Bennet explain what she was doing alone with the officer? Or how would he stop Wickham if he, as a retaliation, decided to talk about last summer?
"I am not going to waste my time giving consequence to your nonsense! I do not have to explain my acts to you. All these matters will be settled by my sword or would you rather a pistol? Oh, please, do not make yourself uneasy trying to choose the weapon now. My second will talk to you in two days..."
Wickham got pale. Darcy was being serious... How could he escape now? He murmured:
"Your second? In two days?"
"Yes, probably Colonel Fitzwilliam. Of course we shall have the duel in London, as I am leaving Hertfordshire tomorrow..."
Wickham needed time to think, so he said:
"I shall be allowed to leave the regiment only after the 9th of December."
"More than ten days? Impossible!"
"Unless we fight here..." Wickham knew he would not accept the duel here.
Wickham had guessed it right. Darcy wanted a neutral site. Meryton was a small place. Although he intended never to come back to this part of the countryside again, Miss Bennet lived here... Moreover, people seemed to like Wickham here and hate him. He would not risk being crucified by the locals. He sighed and concluded:
"Well, it is satisfactory... The Colonel will meet you in two days to discuss the arrangements. We shall meet again at the small hours on the 10th of December."
"I swear we shall," having said this, Wickham departed, leaving a hurt Elizabeth and a meditative Darcy behind...
Chapter 5 Posted on Sunday, 4 July 1999
A gentle breeze started blowing. The last yellow leaves revolved around and caught Darcy's attention. They reminded him of Pemberley and old times... They used to play together when boys. Wickham had always tried to take his toys and they used to fight for them sometimes Darcy was the winner, other ones Wickham was better. Now they were going to fight for honour. But whose honour? Georgiana's? Elizabeth's? He did not know...
A soft groan took him out of his reverie. Elizabeth! He stepped back towards her. She was lain on the log. Her eyes were closed and she was pale. He knelt next to her. His pulse raced and he held his breath he had never seen such long black lashes, nor such pretty coral lips! Coral is far more red than her lips' red.*
"Miss Bennet...," he whispered.
She opened her eyes and saw him gazing at her. He blushed and stood up, moving away.
"I must apologise for having neglected you for so long, Miss Bennet."
"You do not need to excuse yourself, Mr. Darcy. You helped me and I am much obliged," she said, making an attempt to take an upright position but her head spun round and she would have fallen again, had not Darcy taken her in his arms.
"Miss Bennet, you can not walk at this moment. You would do better to sit down and rest for a while."
"But I must come back home! My parents will...," but she did not complete her sentence, as Darcy exclaimed:
"Good God, your head is bleeding!" and sat her at his side immediately. He took out his handkerchief and managed to stop the blood.
Although Elizabeth was still rather dizzy, she could notice how his hands were firm but gentle, as well as that his concern was genuine, not out of politeness. Oh Lord, how many different sides does he possess?
They spent some minutes in silence. The only sound heard was the wind whispering through the trees. Eventually, he said, "The blood is over. Is it still aching?" and he smiled compassionately.
"Yes, a little, sir. But I am feeling better..."
"Miss Bennet, I beg you to forgive me. It was completely my fault. Had I told you about Mr. Wickham's character before, he would never have approached you in this manner."
"No, the fault is mine, sir. I gave too much credit for a stranger. I judged him only by his pleasant manners..."
"Yes, his manners are very engaging indeed, but, unfortunately, his real character and conduct are quite the opposite. You were not the first person who fell for his apparent goodness, though. My good father, I believe, was the first one."
"Your father, sir?"
"The late Mr. Darcy was Mr. Wickham's godfather. Wickham's father, a very good man, was the steward of my family's estates. My father took the young Wickham under his protection and paid his studies at school and later on at Cambridge. Mr. Darcy intended him to the church. Of course, he was not aware of Mr. Wickham's vices and bad conduct out of his sight things that I had already noticed while we were still very young."
Elizabeth was dumbfounded. How could the notion of who was right and who was wrong change in few hours? Till two hours ago, she believed that Mr. Darcy was a blackguard and Wickham was his victim... She lowered her eyes to the ground and continued listening to Mr. Darcy.
"My father died five years ago and in his will he left to Mr. Wickham £1,000 and the promise of a place in the church, if that was his godson's desire. Nevertheless, Mr. Wickham declined any interest in the church and asked (and received) £3,000 in lieu of a living. He told me he intended to study the law." Darcy breathed, waiting for Elizabeth's comment, but she kept her eyes on the ground and he decided to continue his narrative.
"I do not know how he lived after this, but I can guess what he did, because after some time, he wrote me a letter saying he was in trouble and that he would like to become a clergyman, fulfilling my father's intention. I could not have found a less suitable candidate to make sermons. I wrote to him back, refusing all of his requests he had also asked me for more money... Definitely, he did not like my refusal and he has abused me since."
Elizabeth was surprised. Mr. Darcy's story was very similar to what Wickham had told her only the circumstances involving money and the gentlemen's actions were different. Could Mr. Darcy be lying? Until yesterday she would have answered affirmatively. However, had she not met the real Wickham today? What else did she need to see the truth?
Furthermore, there was something involving Mr. Darcy's sister. She was not sure, but she thought she had heard them talking about an elopement. She would not dare ask him though. She looked at Darcy. He was staring at the skyline. Suddenly, he turned to her and said:
"Unfortunately, my dealings with this man did not end with that letter. I believe you heard him mentioning about Georgiana, my sister..."
"Mr. Darcy, I do not wish to impose upon such a private matter..."
"No, Miss Bennet. I think you must know everything. As you have already mentioned before, you have heard too many different accounts of me to puzzle you! It is high time you knew all of my dealings with Mr. Wickham! Moreover, I rely on your secrecy..."
"I thank you, sir."
"I wish I could forget all of this, but that is not an easy attempt, Miss Bennet. My sister Georgiana is more than ten years my junior. She was left to the guardianship of my cousin, Col. Fitzwilliam, and myself after my father's death. Last summer, she went to Ramsgate accompanied by Mrs. Younge, the lady whom she lived in London after having left school. We did not know that neither this lady was reliable, nor that she had a previous acquaintance with Mr. Wickham. Probably warned by his friend, he also headed towards that town and started paying his attentions to my sister. Due to her immaturity (she was only fifteen) and to the good recollection she had of Mr. Wickham, Georgiana thought herself in love with him and let herself be convinced to elope."
"Oh!" it was the only sound Elizabeth could emit.
"Fortunately, I arrived there to visit my sister one day or two before the elopement. She, unable to betray the confidence of a brother whom she also considered almost as a father, told me about their plan. You can imagine how I felt and what I did. I wrote him a letter and he left the place immediately. Had he succeed, he would possess my sister's fortune as well as achieve his revenge on me." He sighed. He had never told anyone about that dreadful summer before!
Elizabeth got red. She was deeply ashamed! How could she not have realised what Wickham was? She had always fancied herself as having good discernment! She had teased Mr. Darcy, she had even grown hatred of him considering the officer's accounts! Mr. Darcy could be a proud man, but she could not accuse him of disloyalty anymore. Actually, she was in debt to him had he not arrived on time, God knows what could have happened...
"Mr. Darcy, I believe I owe you sincere apologies! Although I know that my behavior towards you concerning this gentleman was not pardonable..."
"Do not make yourself uneasy, Miss Bennet. You were grossly deceived." Darcy tried to reassure her.
Elizabeth could fell the tears burning her eyes. The day had been so hard! Mr. Collins' proposal, her mother's persecution, Wickham's attack, Mr. Darcy's confession... Her headache increased and the tears finally rolled down her cheeks.
"Miss Bennet, please, do not cry!"
"Please, forgive me, sir..." but she was sobbing.
He could not see her suffering without trying something to relieve her. He forgot propriety, he forgot everything and embraced her. She did not resist she only wanted a safe place to rest upon. She lay her head on his shoulder and cried her heart out. He caressed her dark locks softly, attempting to calm her down. In fact, he wanted to kiss her hair, her eyes, to lose himself in her lips but that was not the time, he did not want to break the spell of their moment so close. She needed him, he could not betray her. Though he knew these feelings would torture him in his dark and cold bedchamber...
So lost in their feelings were they that they did not notice three ladies staring at them from some distance, completely surprised, but becoming green with envy...
* Sonnet CXXX, Shakespeare
Chapter 6 Posted on Sunday, 11 July 1999
After some time, Elizabeth had control of herself. Strangely, she was now feeling safe and calm... At least she realised where her head was on Mr. Darcy's shoulder! To make things worse, she was embraced by him and he was saying sweet nothings in order to calm her down he had not noticed that she had already stopped crying.
She looked up at him and said, "Mr. Darcy..." He looked down at her with such a tender look that she stirred. How dark and deep his eyes were... As deep as his feelings and his soul? She reprimanded herself for this thought. I think the injury to my head is more serious than I had supposed...
"I-I have to go home, sir."
He blinked, "O-Oh, yes, you are right." He released her, stood up and passed his hand on his dark locks. "My horse is tied to a tree over there. I am going to fetch it..."
"NO!" Elizabeth screamed, "I mean, you do not need to worry, sir. I thank you, but I can walk home..." She did not want to ride a horse together with him. They had already been so much close today...
"Miss Bennet, I insist. You can not walk alone, not after what happened!"
"Mr. Wickham is not going to come back, sir. And I am used to roaming these grounds alone..."
"Which is very improper for a lady..." the words escaped from his mouth.
"I beg your pardon, sir?"
"I think it is not appropriate for you to walk alone now, Miss Bennet. I think you could ride my horse and I would go walking by your side..." and he left her in order to take his stallion, before she could start an argument
He helped her to mount and they directed towards Longbourn. Neither of them spoke a word for some time. Finally, Elizabeth could not help asking him,
"Excuse my curiosity, sir, but are you really going to duel Mr. Wickham?"
"Yes, I am."
"Are you going to risk your life, sir?"
Would you care? "I am not afraid, ma'am. He has tormented me for a long time, he has attacked the ones who are dear to me and I can not stand this anymore..."
"Why did you not reveal what he has been doing?"
"For the same reason I think you should not do it now I did not want to expose my sister. What would people say, Miss Bennet? Some would consider her guilty because she allowed Mr. Wickham's attentions as well as the elopement..."
"I believe it would not be necessary to reveal everything..."
"Miss Bennet, Mr. Wickham is not a man to be trusted and you should know this by now. Were any accusation laid at his door, he would not omit the smallest detail, let alone the ones he would add of his own.
"But Mr. Darcy, he can not continue acting freely..."
Darcy sighed. "Miss Bennet, I wish I could solve this matter in a different way. However, Mr. Wickham's crimes were committed in such a way that it is impossible for the damaged parties to accuse him without being involved in a scandalous... I am tired of this, I think it is my fault I should have stopped him when we were younger. Besides, I think your family and you would not like to be exposed either. How would you explain the fact you were alone with him? I know because I saw when that officer Denny distracted your sisters, but if I die in this duel, who will give testimony in your favour?"
"Did Denny distract my sisters? How did he do it?" Elizabeth was quite shocked.
"By calling their attention to something in a different path from the one you were walking on. Probably he did this following Wickham's request, but I can not guess how much this officer knew about what would occur..."
Elizabeth was pensive. She noticed it was impossible to argue with Mr. Darcy about this matter. This gentleman had too much reasons to be stopped now. In fact, she was only a new piece in a very old puzzle.
They continued their way to Longbourn in silence. Both of them had much to reflect.
Chapter 7 As Darcy and Elizabeth approached the gates of Longbourn, Lizzy saw that Jane was waiting for her there.
"Lizzy!" Jane cried as soon as she figured out who was on the horse. Lizzy riding? And who was the gentleman accompanying her sister? Lydia and Kitty had mentioned that she would arrive with Mr. Wickham, but this person was not wearing a uniform... Jane's curiosity was satisfied when they got nearer - Mr. Darcy?!
"Good day, Mr. Darcy," Jane curtsied and he bowed to her. Then Jane turned to her sister and got worried after noticing the blood stain on her sister's muslin. "Dear Lizzy, what happened?"
Darcy stepped forward and said, "Miss Bennet slipped on a stone and fell, hitting her forehead on the ground. She is still rather dizzy, but I believe she is not badly injured."
Elizabeth looked at him furiously. How would he dare to impose upon her life in such a way? Of course he had helped her but she had not allowed him to speak on her behalf. Elizabeth was not accustomed to having others answer questions for her when she was perfectly able to use her own voice.
Darcy offered to help her dismount but she refused with an angry look. He became puzzled, What did I do?
They walked quickly to the house, with Jane inquiring about her sister's welfare. In the parlour, Elizabeth whispered to the gentleman in a rough voice: "I wonder why you decided to address my sister for me as well as not to tell her about the wholeevent?"
"And I wonder whether you are going to tell your story in front of all these people, ma'am." And she saw who were coming to receive them: her parents and sisters, Denny, Charlotte, Maria Lucas and Mr. Collins!
It was such a profusion of "Where have you been?" "What happened?" "You should not have done this...", "My poor nerves..." that Elizabeth escaped to the drawing room with Jane and Darcy behind! Nonetheless, She was not free yet, as the curious rabble also followed her. This time, Lydia was the first one to speak:
"But where is Mr. Wickham?"
"He must have left Lizzy alone..." Kitty completed.
"Wickham would never..." Denny stated before being interrupted by a cold look from Darcy. The officer got pale.
"Mr. Wickham remembered he had an urgent business to solve in Meryton and had to leave Miss Bennet. I think you should join him in town as soon as possible, officer. It seems that Mr. Wickham always relies on you concerning some affairs and I believe he is in need of your help right now..." and Darcy gave him a threatening look.
Denny understood the message and bid his adieu quickly. As there were no red coats in the room anymore, Kitty and Lydia lost their interest in her sister's matter.
Meanwhile, Mr. Collins, Charlotte and Maria Lucas were whispering about the scene on a corner. Though the ladies wanted to know what had occurred, they noticed their presence there was not proper. Therefore they decided to leave, accompanied by the clergyman, who had offered to accompany Miss Lucas and her sister to the ladies' estate.
In this way, only the family and Darcy were now gathered at the room. As nobody was paying attention to her, Mrs. Bennet began to weep again: "Oh, my poor nerves! You do not know how much I suffer with such a daughter..." Mr. Bennet interrupted her and, extremely concerned, asked to his favorite:
"My dear child, what happened?"
Elizabeth looked at Mr. Darcy and lowered her eyes. He was right, she could not speak openly at this moment. "I-I slipped on a stone and hit my head on the ground." She bit her lip and continued, "It was very kind of Mr. Darcy to help me. Were he not there, I... I do not know what might have become of me!"
"Oh! Oh, Mr. Bennet. She is going to kill me! She does not care about her poor old mother! She refused our dear Mr. Collins. After, she left me speaking alone and to what? To walk alone through the woods and risk her life." Mrs. Bennet breathed.
Her strident voice had annoyed Darcy deeply. Elizabeth and Jane were both embarrassed, the former was red and the latter was white. Darcy could not abide such awful comments anymore. Ah, this horrible and insensible woman would not continue harping on...
"If you had accepted Mr. Collins..."
"Mrs. Bennet?"
The lady fell silent after hearing Darcy's voice. She stared at him.
"Ma'am, I beg you to excuse my interference, but I believe that Miss Bennet is quite unwell and that she really needs to rest..."
Mrs. Bennet was astonished! Was Mr. Darcy talking to her? And about one of her daughters? She just mumbled, "Yes, sir. Perfectly, sir." And in a louder voice, "Jane, see Elizabeth to her bedchamber. And ask Mrs. Hill to prepare something for your sister. She needs to eat..."
Elizabeth stopped before leaving the room. She turned to Darcy and said:
"I must thank you again, sir. It seems that you rescued me twice today. But I am still rather angry at your lie, sir. Have a good day."
"Our lie, Miss Bennet. I hope you recover soon. Have a good day, too," and he bowed to her.
After Elizabeth and Jane had left, Mr. Bennet approached Darcy discreetly:
"I would like to talk to you in private, sir. Would you mind following me to the library?"
"Not at all, sir."
Inside the library, Mr. Bennet waited for Mr. Darcy to take a seat and, without delay, said:
"Mr. Darcy, I am not silly as my wife and some of my daughters are. I know my Lizzy very well and I am certain she is... ahn, omitting the truth. Besides, I saw you exchanging looks before she gave her explanation. I demand to know, sir. What happened between my daughter and you today?
Chapter 8 Posted on Monday, 19 July 1999
Darcy should have known that Mr. Bennet would make an inquisition. He saw he was forced to tell the truth, or at least, which could be revealed without compromise himself. Having decided this, he started:
"Actually, sir, I shall tell you what occurred between Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Wickham", and so he continued. However, he only mentioned Wickham's approach to Elizabeth, leaving out their argument with the officer as well as the duel.
Mr. Bennet changed colours from the paleness of astonishment to the dark red of anger. "So Mr. Wickham attacked my daughter! But how did she happen to be alone with him?"
To Mr. Bennet's utter dismay, Darcy explained how Denny had disguised Kitty and Lydia. The former became angrier:
"Never will I allow an officer in my house again! And my daughters are expressly prohibited to even look at a red coat!" Mr. Bennet was breathing hard he noticed he had to get control of himself. Though his outburst was perfectly expected, it was also quite improper and he would not like to be compared to his wife in this subject:
"I beg your pardon, Mr. Darcy. That is not my usual behaviour..."
"It is quite understandable, Mr. Bennet."
"And I believe I also owe you the expression of sincere gratitude." And in a calmer tone, "I wish I had seen that rascal's face when you stopped him..."
"You owe me nothing, sir. I only did what was expected from me." Darcy felt relieved. If Elizabeth decided to describe the whole affair, he would not oppose himself. Due to personal matters, he would rather conceal the rest at the present time. He was standing up to bid his farewell when Mr. Bennet interrupted him.
"Pray, Mr. Darcy. How did you find Lizzy?" a strange thought had just come upon Mr. Bennet, and he could not allow the young gentleman to leave without elucidating it.
"I heard her cries, sir," and Darcy sat down again.
"And where exactly was it?"
"I believe we were about half an hour from Meryton..."
"That is very interesting... Let me check if I understood well. You said you had seen that Denny took my younger daughters to a different path..."
"Yes, that is right."
"And where were all of them at that moment?"
"I can not recall very well, sir. I think they were about fifteen minutes from the town." Darcy was growing suspicious. What was Mr. Bennet's intention?
"They had left Meryton towards my property... As far as I remember, you told me you decided to follow my daughter after noticing Denny's action, and they were already away from town... Hum, thus I must conclude that you are used to scampering about the country looking for helpless ladies in danger!"
"Pardon me..."
"Why were you so far away from Netherfield? Either you were lost or you were pursuing my daughters!"
"I do not understand what you mean, sir!" Darcy decided to bluff.
Mr. Bennet became agitated, "Were you so distant from Mr. Bingley's house and so close to mine for nothing? You are taking me for a fool..."
"Mr. Bennet, as I have already told you, I changed my way because I saw that there was something strange in Denny's action..."
"But I wonder why you were following my daughters before that happened?"
Darcy stood up and went to the window. He had tried to avoid this, but it was impossible to hide the whole story now...
"I did this because, accidentally, I eavesdropped on a conversation between Mr. Wickham and Denny whilst they were still in town. I shall not repeat what they said, but believe me, sir, it was enough to raise my suspicious concerning the ladies' well-being, mainly Miss Elizabeth's, as it seems that Mr. Wickham had been paying his attentions only to her..."
"And it seems that you, sir, have a large knowledge of my Lizzy's suitors, as well a great interest in that..."
Darcy gulped. Was Mr. Bennet aware of his attraction to Elizabeth? He could not have exposed himself so much... He turned back and made an effort to answer to that in a neutral voice:
"As a matter of fact, I was worried about Mr. Wickham's actions, as I have known him since childhood. Though I am quite conscious that your second daughter is quite clever, I had already noticed that Mr. Wickham was attempting to disgust her by telling untrue tales about his relationship with my family. I can not tell you exactly what he told her, but your daughter was teasing me about that at Netherfield yesterday."
Mr. Bennet was also told about Mr. Wickham and Darcy's dealings. Of course, Darcy judged better to leave out of the account his sister's involvement with the scoundrel. Eventually, Mr. Bennet seemed to understand Darcy's motive for following his children. Never had he learnt of such a wretch and vicious man before!
"I beg you to excuse me again, sir. I have misjudged you erroneously twice in less than an hour. I believe I interrogated the wrong gentleman. The right thing to do now is to talk to my daughter and resolve what we shall do."
"Ah, Mr. Bennet..." Oh, Lord! I will have to mention the duel... "I took the liberty of assuming responsibility for solving this matter, as it was due to my mistake that your daughter could be misled by Mr. Wickham. Had I revealed his real character, nothing would have happened. Furthermore, since Mr. Wickham has offended my family, and even tried to sed... I mean, he has even attempted to damage my sister's honour, I shall be also settling my personal matters with him."
Mr. Bennet did not comprehend at all the part of Mr. Darcy's sister in the events, but he would not dare to ask. "May I inquire how you intend to do this, Mr. Darcy?"
Darcy turned again to the window. "I have challenged him to a duel," he said in a steady voice.
Mr. Bennet gasped and coloured. Finally, he walked to where Darcy was and exploded, "Duel?! Good God, I thought you were a rational man!"
I used to be before coming to Hertfordshire! Darcy turned to Mr. Bennet, "It is the only way to avoid my sister's and your daughter's exposure!"
"I can not see how this irrational act would be able to prevent such thing! You are in a small town, everybody will know!"
"We shall fight in London, sir," and Darcy repeated to Mr. Bennet the same reasons he had given to Elizabeth earlier. Nevertheless, Mr. Bennet could not agree with such scheme:
"Mr. Darcy, be reasonable. If you injure or kill this infamous man, how will this not affect the ladies? Besides, if you are mortally injured, who will stop Mr. Wickham's tongue? I will also have to engage him in a duel..."
"I assure you that in such case my cousin, Col. Fitzwilliam, will pay him well enough to leave the country and never come back..."
"That is insane, sir! I do not want you to fight for Lizzy, you are not her betrothed, not even her relative!"
"It will be a honour to fight for her, sir!" Darcy blushed his mouth had betrayed his heart again! He hurried into fixing what he had said by adding, "Although that is not my main reason..."
Mr. Bennet remained silent for some time. Eventually, he looked at Darcy right in his eyes :
"I see it is impossible to reason with you, sir. But, if I can not stop you, at least I wish you good luck ."
"I thank you, sir. I am glad you understood me. Unfortunately, I have to leave now. I hope Miss Elizabeth recovers soon."
Mr. Bennet only nodded his head. Darcy went on, "Please, give my best wishes to your family. Have a good day."
"I shall. Have a good day, too."
Mr. Bennet lingered around his library. He had to think. This gentleman was so strange! He had slighted his daughter in the beginning. He was now involved in a duel for her honour although it was clear that Mr. Darcy did not desire to be understood in this way.
He is a sensible man but he is acting with his heart. His heart... Lord, he must be in love with Lizzy! The more Mr. Bennet reflected, the more he was convinced that Mr. Darcy must feel something for his daughter.
Later that day, Mr. Bennet talked to Lizzy and she confirmed everything that Mr. Darcy had told him. Mr. Bennet could also realise that his daughter was very abashed of having believed in Mr. Wickham as well as having treated Mr. Darcy badly due to that officer's complaints. Finally, she told him she wished that only Jane should know what had transpired. Mr. Bennet did not need to ask why he knew the rest of the family could not be trusted...
Meanwhile in Meryton
The scene seen by the three ladies in the morning was told and retold in (added) details through the town after luncheon. Only the rain that fell after teatime could stop the spread of the gossip, though it could not take away the backbiting about the lady and the gentleman involved.
Chapter 9 Posted on Thursday, 29 July 1999
At Longbourn, In The Evening
The rain that had started in the afternoon continued up through the evening. Elizabeth had been on her bed since before luncheon, as a splitting headache had not left her after the incident in the morning. Furthermore, it was a good way to avoid Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins she would not be able to bear her mother launching an attack on her all day long, nor the clergyman's offended face.
Early in the afternoon, Mr. Bennet had come to talk about the forenoon events. According to her father's accounts, Mr. Darcy had told him everything except for Georgiana's affair. Likewise to her opinion, Mr. Bennet did not approve the duel, but he had also realised it would be impossible to change the young gentleman's will.
Jane was now in her sister's bedchamber. Elizabeth had just finished to tell her story. Jane was appalled:
"Dear Lizzy, how could Mr. Wickham have acted in such a way?!"
"I do not know, Jane. I did not encourage this kind of approach. Moreover, everything happened so fast that I only comprehend what was occurring when he began to kiss me!" and Elizabeth flushed.
"And Denny supported him... They looked so kind, so reliable..."
"Oh, Jane! The more I know the world, the more I realised that there are few people whom we can really place our trust in."
Jane decided to cheer her sister up by teasing her: "And is Mr. Darcy trustworthy?"
"Jane!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "I should be teasing you, not the opposite! And to tell you the truth, I can not understand why you have asked me this!"
"Mr. Darcy explained his dealings with Mr. Wickham and mentioned about his sister's fiasco... At least he believes that you are trustworthy!"
"Actually, I am very thankful to him. I must confess that my knowing him better helped me to see a different Mr. Darcy..."
"So I must conclude that he really improves on acquaintance..."
"I wish I could state this without doubt, but I am still excessively bemused. The Mr. Darcy I met this morning bears almost no relation to the one I had the displeasure of being acquainted with. He was very gentle, attentive, thoughtful... Tender..." Elizabeth recollected how he had cuddled her and she shivered. She felt awkward since she was not used to acting (or feeling) as a romantic and dreamy heroine of Gothic romances...
"Tender? What do you mean?" Jane inquired but Elizabeth pretended not to notice her sister's question and continued:
"However, when I remember his proud manners and how arrogant he is..."
"Lizzy, you are not being just! He rescued you from Mr. Wickham's grasp, he helped you to come home and he is even going to duel for you honour!"
"I beg your pardon, he is going to fight for his sister's honour!"
"He could have done this last summer..."
Elizabeth fell silent. Could Jane be right? In fact, she did not want to think about this right now she needed clues, not further baffling questions. "Jane, his assistance was appreciated but I can not change my mind based on one-day observation. Although I may assure you that I am not so badly inclined to tolerate him now as I used to be."
"Poor Mr. Darcy! He involved himself in a duel. He even faced father's anger on behalf of you and you are resolved only to bear his company," Jane said, imitating her sister's tone. "Not to mention that he had his coat stained with blood..."
Elizabeth became red on hearing Jane's mention to the blood stain. She could not explain it, could she? She decided to change the focus of the conversation:
"You were quite perceptive, Jane! It seems that everything concerning Mr. Darcy has not escaped your notice! I am wondering whether Mr. Bingley is really the object of your affection!"
"Stop it, Lizzy!" Jane exclaimed, completely mortified. "This is not funny at all. I shall not consider your words as I know you are not yourself tonight. Besides, I think you are trivialising the facts because you do not want to modify your first impression of Mr. Darcy. I am not blaming you, still you should see that he is not the "beast" you judged he was..."
"Dearest sister, I wish Mr. Darcy praised you to Mr. Bingley in the same way you are commending him to me!", and Elizabeth sighed. "I am really sorry if I offended you my day was very though and I have not had time to reflect upon some points and the people involved."
"No, Lizzy. I was wrong. Please, forgive me for having disturbed you! But I shall not distress you more. I think you should rest now. Good-bye."
Jane was leaving the bedchamber when Elizabeth called her back: "Jane, wait a moment, please. I need to tell you something..."
"More surprises?" Jane asked.
"Jane, I think even if I lived a hundred years, I would not be able to step out of the boundaries of propriety on a single day as I did today. Not even Kitty and Lydia have managed to do it..."
"Dear God, what else could have happened?" Jane was really intrigued by her sister's partial confession.
"I got alone with Mr. Wickham, he kissed me and... well, you know what he attempted. Finally, I..." Elizabeth lowered her eyes to her lap and proceeded, "I was embraced by Mr. Darcy!"
"Lizzy! How could you allow this?" Jane could not believe that her sister had accepted Mr. Darcy's advance!
"I do not recall the particulars very well. I only know that I was feeling tired and vexed. Owing to that, I started crying. When I came to myself, I was on his arms, with my head on his shoulders and with such a sensation of calmness and safety that I had not felt for a long time, I must confess." And I am quite sure he caressed my hair... "I believe he only acted in this way in order to comfort me..."
Jane released her breath. She understood what had happened. Nonetheless, there was something else between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy that she could not comprehend at the moment and, certainly, she would not dare to mention to her sister. She only decided to remark the following:
"That clarifies why Mr. Darcy's coat was spotted... as well as your reference to him as a tender man.," and Jane smiled. "I guess you really need time to solve this riddle out."
"Riddle?" Elizabeth did not perceived Jane's words meaning.
"Mr. Darcy..."
"Jane, I do not..."
"Repose, dear sister! Good night!"
And Elizabeth was left to the Sphinx. Decipher me or I shall devour you! Would she achieve success as the Greek hero?
Chapter 10 A Posted on Friday, 6 August 1999
At Netherfield, In The Same Evening
Darcy had been tossing and turning in his bed for more than two hours. Although he was extremely exhausted, the scenes of the day and of the previous one had not allowed him to fall into slumber in peace: the ball, the argument with Bingley about Miss Jane Bennet, Wickham and Elizabeth...
After having arrived back to Netherfield, he had succeed in escaping from Miss Bingley's attention. Surely she would have inquired about the reason of his delay as well as about his disheveled coat ... His coat! His valet had almost fainted on seeing the bloodstain on his master's most costly coat! The scene itself had been hilarious,
"Good Heavens, sir! I can not believe you have walked through Meryton with such a gory attire!" and as if recollecting himself, he continued, " Are you well, sir? You are not bleeding, are you?"
Darcy had suppressed a laugh. Morrisey had been more preoccupied with his appearance than with his well-being,
"I am perfectly well, Morrisey. I am not injured. At least not physically... "I helped... Hum... a lady who fell almost in front of Janus! I could restrain the reins only in time to avoid the worse! That is all." And he had broken up the conversation with the excuse he did not want to be late for the repast.
Luncheon had been disgusting as always: Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were distilling their poison and Mr. Hurst was only worried about his plate how could he have stated that Elizabeth was not a good conversationalist?
To make the matters worse, the subject today had been the ball. Miss Bingley had not been able to postpone her barbs on Elizabeth:
"Do you not think that Miss Eliza and Mr. Collins are a perfect couple, Louisa?". And they had burst into laugh.
"I could not agree more, sister! If it is true what I heard, she, as Mrs. Collins, will have to get used to his mastery of dancing!"
"But I think she is already her equal in this ability! Miss Eliza has neither grace nor deftness at all. As a matter of fact, she conducted herself as it was expected from certain ladies who presuming herself too much in their small towns but who are nothing when compared to real ladies from Town." And the sisters sniggered even more.
By proceeding with their evil remarks and annoying laughter, they had irritated Darcy in his limit. He was attempting to find a plausible excuse to leave the room when Miss Bingley turned to him:
"Ah, Mr. Darcy... Do you not agree with me , sir? I noticed that you had to put up a great deal standing up with Miss Eliza yesterday..."
"Not at all. At least she did not stamp on my feet as certain accomplished and fashionable ladies still insist on doing!" Darcy grinned on recalling how Miss Bingley had coloured after his answer, since in the few times she had danced with him, she had left his feet painful.
Unexpectedly, Mr. Hurst's voice had been heard, "I can not agree with your sister, Mrs. Hurst. Miss Bennet and Mr. Darcy formed a remarkable couple I had never seen such a complementary couple heretofore!" And turning to Darcy, "Congratulations on your choice, sir! It seems that you singled out a dancing nymph though I can not understand why this nymph does not appreciate the ambrosia which a ragout is!"
An incensed Miss Bingley had exchanged glances with an astonished Mrs. Hurst. The latter had so decided to interfere before Darcy had been able to answer,
"You have not tasted the potatoes yet, Mr. Hurst... They are divine!"
Thanks to Mr. Hurst's surprising comment, they had finished the meal without making allusion to the ball anew.
Chapter 10 B Posted on Sunday, 8 August 1999
Darcy had left the room as soon as propriety permitted. He had gone straight to his chamber in order to write a missive to his cousin, Col. Fitzwilliam, in which he had explained his encounter with Wickham and the challenge for the duel. Notwithstanding, he had omitted the details about Elizabeth he did not know how to elucidate his feelings to himself, let alone to the others...
In his letter, Darcy had instructed the Colonel to set the date for the duel (December the 10th , around 3 am) as well as the conditions: they would choose the weapon on the day, either a pistol or a sword. Were Darcy mortally injured, Wickham would receive £5,000 upon signing a document he would have to leave the country and never return, nor approach anyone from Darcy's family and acquaintance (that included Elizabeth!). If Wickham does not fulfill the requirements, he will be prosecuted.
If I am mortally injured... Darcy was not afraid of Wickham he knew he could beat his "old friend" easily in a honest dispute. However, he could not help the feeling that Wickham would try any dishonest action in order to take advantage of him.
As a matter of fact, what was unsettling him was the possibility of dying leaving Pemberley without an heir... Leaving Georgiana alone... Dying without having tasted the pleasure that only a beloved woman could bestow! Not that he was inexperienced in the arts of love. It was quite the contrary. Yet such experiences had been mere infatuations which had vanished with the first rays of sun.
Furthermore, after those moments, he had gradually grown more cynical, even pessimistic. The women he met threw themselves into his path only because of his money and position. Some wanted to be "the mistress of Pemberley"; others, to be "his mistress" still all of them with the same purpose: his wealth! They were ready to fulfill his minimum request; they would agree with the most stupid thing he professed; they would be just what they thought he desired!
Therefore he had almost given up marrying for love. Marrying for love... Such thought could be considered preposterous he was aware that such aspiration was not even conceived as "chic" amongst the gentry. He could not help craving for it though, not after having seen how happy his parents had been due to the love they cherished and shared! He desired the same for him...
Lately Darcy had been considering matrimony only to produce an heir for his estate. He had started to think that he would never find a woman who would puzzle him and be a constant enigma. A woman who would have her own opinions, but be sensible enough to maintain or modify them if necessary. A woman who would take care of his estate and his children as well as guide his sister. A woman who would love him and him alone...
A marriage of convenience had so begun to be part of his thoughts before he had come to Hertfordshire. Before entering Netherfield. Before succumbing to those beautiful dark eyes... After having noticed them, he could not avoid doing things which, until some weeks ago, he would have considered foolish, improper and risible of laughter. Such as the desire of dancing with a lady even after he had been twice refused by her; reading Shakespeare's sonnets, his favourite poet, had become a work of comparison between the Bard's muse and that lady; following her through the rooms of every place they met; longing for seeing her, for touching her...
And her eyes... He had seen those sparkling eyes react in different ways: with surprise, laughing, challenging, worrying, with kindness, crying... Yet never had he seen them with the only reply he would want to: with the surrender of passion!
He could not deny the truth at least to himself anymore. He had attempted to convince himself that his passion for her was only infatuation, perchance lust, which would dissolve as soon as he became aware of her faults. Nevertheless, the only flaws he had been able to gather were related to her family, not to the lady herself: the entailed estate, her uncle being an attorney in Meryton, her relatives in Cheapside, the misconduct of her mother and younger sisters, everything which could undermine any hope of alliance between them.
Darcy rose from his bed and walked towards the window. It was still raining but he did not care... He opened the window and let the chill wind enter his chamber and wrap him,
"That is unfair, Elizabeth...," he murmured that to the darkness was he intending that his words reached her? "All the disadvantages are outside of you! You are perfection itself! You are witty, handsome, kind, attentive... I could enumerate many adjectives and still not describe you accurately... Even your pert opinions and your teasing manners are charming! I have never found anyone who had challenged and bewitched me as you did..."
He closed his eyes and rested his head on the window frame. He could listen to the rain dropping on the roof outside. Inside only his voice, though very low, could be heard,
"God knows how I have been searching for faults in you. Actually, today it was my last effort had you allowed Wickham's caresses, I would have been consumed by jealousy, but I would be happy since I would stop nourishing these feelings for you! However, my situation simply became worse as I committed myself into a duel, and the short time spent in that embrace was enough to evidence which I can not persist concealing: I am hopelessly in love with you, Elizabeth!
He opened his eyes and made an attempt to see in the dark outside. It was effortless, as there was no moonlight the heavy clouds of rain insisted on keeping the moon covert and the darkness spread through the land. "All right. Everything was said. And what should I do now? Perhaps I have only more nine days, either of emptiness or of happiness... Which path should I take?"
He came back to his bed and accommodated on it. He lay down on his back and stared at the bedspread. He only managed to fall asleep after his resolution had been taken.
Chapter 11 Posted on Thursday, 12 August 1999
November 28th
Breakfast at Netherfield
The sunrise had dissipated the last droplets of rain but it had also brought bad news to Netherfield,
"Oh, Mr. Darcy!" Miss Bingley intercepted the gentleman as soon as he entered the breakfast room.
Oh, Lord! I had an appalling evening and I even have to bear Caroline so early! I wish I could have my breakfast alone... Darcy was not on his best day... "Good day, Miss Bingley."
"Ah, Good day, sir. Unfortunately, I am the messenger of the worst news: a wheel of our carriage is broken and we shall travel to Town only tomorrow!" And Caroline twisted her face in deep disgust.
Darcy got annoyed. He needed to come back to Town as he had much business to settle before the meeting with Wickham. He could try riding back by horse, but after the last night's rain, that would not be advisable. He would have to stay at Netherfield for one more day...
"They are very bad news indeed, Miss Bingley! I was expecting to be in Town after luncheon..."
"Oh, I know you have missed the civilised world as much as I have, sir!" Darcy did not made reply. Despite his lack of attention, she proceeded, "And I have already sent a letter to Miss Jane Bennet biding our adieu..." She winked at him.
Humph! What audacity! She spoke on my behalf! He meditated with abhorrence. As he did not understand why she had blinked to him, he was compelled to abandon his silent position and said,
"I beg your pardon?"
"In this letter I mentioned that neither Charles nor his family and friend had the intention of returning to Netherfield next Winter... I knew that you had talked to my brother and managed to stop his insensible actions concerning this lady. I am much obliged for your help, sir."
How did she know about my conversation with Charles? By eavesdropping, probably! he guessed. After some seconds, Darcy realised she was waiting for his answer, which he attempted to give as cold and brief as possible, "Not at all. It was my duty as his friend..."
In spite of Darcy's feeling of relief after having fulfilled which he imagined was his obligation toward his friend, he could not help the sensation of being part of a scheme to deceive Bingley... Darcy did not blame his interference he was aware that he was perfectly right about the matter. Still the way Miss Bingley had talked about the arrangement had made him feel uncomfortable about the affair.
Miss Bingley continued her comments on the missive, "After having read my lines, Miss Bennet will never dare even dream of Charles again. And I shall also get rid of the other lady, the one with impertinent eyes and impudent manners!" she concluded, teasing Darcy.
Had you not made allusion to Elizabeth, you would not feel overjoyed! You will get rid of Miss Elizabeth Bennet indeed, my dear lady! Darcy thought but preferred not to answer, concentrating on his tea.
Miss Bingley proceeded with her lamentation about their forced stay in Hertfordshire for one more day and the plans she had on her return to "real" society. She attempted to commit Darcy into her projects, but he politely declined all of her invitations.
Darcy hastily finished his meal and left to the billiard room the only haven in that house where Caroline would not incommode him since she disliked that game. And there he spent his time until luncheon.
At Longbourn, In The Afternoon
If Miss Bingley was the emissary of bad tidings at Netherfield, the same role would be performed by Mrs. Philips, Mrs. Bennet's sister, at Longbourn. However, the latter's information was a more serious concern if compared to the former's.
Mrs. Philips arrived in a hurried manner at Longbourn, "Oh, where is my sister? Where is Fanny?" She asked to Mrs. Hill, the housekeeper. Jane, on listening to her aunt's desperate voice, came dashing to the parlour,
"Good afternoon, Aunt Philips."
"Oh, Jane, where is your mother? I have to talk to her... Oh, a disgrace has come upon us! That will be your sister's ruin as well as ours!"
"Mama is resting in her chamber. She was not feeling well at all. It seems she is still upset about Lizzy's refusal of Mr. Collins..."
"Oh, she will become angrier at your sister! But no, I can not tell you about it now! I have to converse with Fanny first."
Jane was becoming curious. It must be something concerning Lizzy, but what could it be? She led her aunt upstairs towards her mother's bedchamber. The young lady knocked on the door and opened it. Mrs. Bennet was sitting in her favourite armchair. On seeing her sister, she started to bewail,
"Oh, my nerves! I do not know if I shall be able to surmount Lizzy's betrayal! How could she have declined Mr. Collins' proposal? Come in, sister. Come and see what that soulless has done of me!"
"I am extremely sorry to tell you this, but I believe I am not conveying good news. Oh, sister, people are saying that...", and she stopped. She breathed and went on, "I must say I do not give credence to any single word of it!"
"Oh, please! I beg you to continue!" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed.
"People are saying that Elizabeth is... ah... Mr. Darcy's mistress!"
"What?" Mrs. Bennet stood up alarmed.
"It seems she was seen in Mr. Darcy's arms. He... He was..." Mrs. Philips blushed. "Oh, he was kissing her and she was in his lap!" She spluttered out.
Jane turned red. She could not face her mother nor her aunt that was very serious indeed! Had Elizabeth not told her everything about the events with Mr. Darcy? She was brought back to reality by her mother's screams,
"Oh, oh! Jane my saaaaalts!" and Mrs. Bennet fell unconscious on the ground. This time Jane could not avoid her mother's faint.