Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Chapter 5
Posted on Saturday, 25 February 2006
Elizabeth lay down in bed that night, thoroughly exhausted and somewhat confused. She trusted the judgment of her Aunt, Lady Gwenyth regarding inviting the gentlemen to supper, but was still unsure. She didn’t want to look improper to her neighbors, and tarnish her mother’s memory. Sighing, she rolled over and sat upright in her bed. The fire in the grate had died, and she rose from her bed to get her shawl and wrapped it tightly around her shoulders. Not wanting to return to bed yet, she sat down in the window seat and stared out at the darkness, seeing nothing, yet feeling everything. She knew the tears would come, so she rested her head against the windowpane as they fell. She began to sob, as the events of the last several days came back to her full force. She cried for her mother, her family’s lack of connections, fortune, and most of all, she hated to admit, she cried because of her foolish refusal of Mr. Darcy. Why had she been such a horrible judge of character! Why had she allowed herself to be taken in by Wickam’s lies and deceit! Dabbing her eyes with her handkerchief, she made her way back to bed. Laying down and drawing the covers up to her chin, Elizabeth closed her eyes, wishing sleep to come quickly.
Across the countryside, Caroline Bingley also laid in her bed, wide-awake and staring at the canopy, quietly seething. She was furious with the Bennet’s regardless of their loss, which in her mind wasn’t such a great loss, as she despised Mrs. Bennet. Her dreams of being Mrs. Darcy were quickly slipping away, as Mr. Darcy spent more and more time at Longborn. Her mind racing, she threw the covers back and rose from her bed to stomp around the room in a most unladylike manner. Louisa had been no help; as her pleas to her to make Charles and Mr. Darcy come home at once fell on deaf ears. Louisa suddenly had decided to abandon her cause of becoming the mistress of Pemberley and had told her that she needed to stop living a lie. Feeling the fury rise in her chest, she flung her hand across the massive dresser, displacing the contents across the room. She looked at herself in the glass, barely illuminated by the moonlight coming through the window. She still looked well; she had not totally lost her bloom. She pinched her cheeks, fluffed her hair and turned to go back to bed, satisfied that her plan would work, and she would win Mr. Darcy.
The day Mrs. Bennet was to be laid to rest dawned clear and bright. The family had spent the day before in deep thought and reflection, only sharing conversation during meals. Today was to be a sad day, and Elizabeth was preparing for it as best she could. As she sat at her dressing table after finishing her toilette, she heard the sounds of her sisters rising. Knowing they would all be up and about soon, she knew she wanted a bit of quiet time before seeing them. She rose from her seat and donned her best mourning gown, a fine bombazine creation with fine lace on the sleeves and neckline, fastened a necklace of jet beads around her neck, and made her way downstairs to get in an early walk before breakfast. Before walking out the door, she informed Hill that she would be walking in the garden, and was surprised to hear that Kitty was already there, taking in a morning walk herself. Elizabeth walked outside and paused to take in a deep breath of fresh air, and then set off to find Kitty.
Kitty sat in the garden on an old stone bench, absentmindedly twirling a chestnut brown curl around her finger and staring up at the sky. She was deep in thought and did not notice her sister take a seat next to her.
“Kitty, are you alright?” Elizabeth asked, her voice full of concern.
Kitty turned to look at her with a blank expression on her face. “Lizzy, what will become of us? Will we stay here at Longborn, or will we go into town with my Aunt and Uncle? I’m so scared!”
Elizabeth put her arm around Kitty as she began to cry softly. She held her until she was through and lifted her head to her level.
“Kitty, we will be fine. I spoke with my father last night, and asked him the very same questions. We will stay here at Longborn for the remainder of our mourning period, and then we will likely go to London to stay with either Aunt and Uncle Gardiner or Lord and Lady Stratton. His Lordship wishes to get better acquainted with our family, so they will stay at Longborn for quite some time. Aunt and Uncle Gardiner will return to London next week, and we will see them again when our mourning is over.”
Kitty nodded and looked down at her bonnet, now twisted in her lap. “Lizzy, I am concerned about Lydia, she has been acting so strange.”
“How so?”
“Well, she doesn’t act like Mama is gone at all! All she can talk about is going to London, and being seen at plays and balls. She says horrible things about you and Jane, and she wishes Mr. Wickham would come and save her.”
Elizabeth, alarmed with this information, jumped up and began pacing in front of Kitty. She kept thinking about Mr. Darcy’s story of his sister and feared something terrible may have already happened. She stopped suddenly and turned to look at a forlorn Kitty.
“Kitty, has something improper happened between Lydia and Mr. Wickham?”
“No! At least, not that I am aware of. She does talk about him a great deal, but I do not think anything has happened between them. They have reached no understanding.”
Elizabeth knelt down in front of Kitty and took her hands in hers. “Kitty, promise you will tell me if anything happens. Mr. Wickham is not to be trusted!”
Kitty smiled at her sister and shook her head. “I will promise to tell you Lizzy, but you shouldn’t worry, Mr. Wickham would never do anything to Lydia.” And with that, she kissed Elizabeth on the cheek and made her way back to the house.
Elizabeth sat down on the stone bench and began to think. If Mr. Wickham has been made aware of our new relations, and then he may think we have become more wealthy, plus the added title of Stratton would make their disgrace more known to the ton. But what can I do? Jane is already aware of Mr. Wickham’s behavior, and Papa isn’t concerned. I should speak with him soon as may be. Perhaps we could travel into London earlier? She fought down the panic she felt rising in her chest and made her way back to the house.
Sara sat in the massive library at Netherfield nervously playing with the strings of her apron. Mrs. Johnson had encouraged her to speak with the master about Miss Bingley, as she had feared the mistress was going mad! Yesterday she had torn apart her room, and talked to herself all day long about ways to trap Mr. Darcy into marriage. Sara didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but it was hard not to listen when Miss Bingley wasn’t making any attempt to hide her words. Sara had lived in Hertfordshire all her life, and knew the Bennet family well. She did not like the comments her mistress had made about Miss Bennet, but she was afraid to speak for fear of losing her position within the household. After speaking with Mrs. Johnson, and being reassured that her place at Netherfield would not be in jeopardy, she applied to the master’s valet early in the morning. Having been told my Spencer, Mr. Bingley’s valet that the master would speak with her shortly, she made haste to the library.
The door opened and Sara jumped up from her seat and curtsied to Mr. Bingley, who was followed by Mrs. Johnson.
“Good morning, sir.”
Mr. Bingley smiled and took a seat behind his desk, and Mrs. Johnson took the seat next to Sara. “Good morning Sara! Please sit down. What brings you here this morning?”
Sara swallowed nervously and folded her hands tightly in her lap. “Sir, I am concerned for my mistress! She has been acting rather strange recently.”
Bingley looked at Sara and nodded for her to continue. “I was summoned yesterday to attend to my mistress, and found she was speaking out loud, but to no one in particular! I tried not to listen, but sir, she was speaking as if she was talking directly to me!”
Bingley shifted in his seat, a frown settling over his normally pleasant face. “What was she saying?”
“Well, she mostly talked of Mr. Darcy, and of Pemberley. I heard her say some rather impolite words regarding Miss Bennet. Then she spoke of how she could trap Mr. Darcy in a compromising position, and how he would most certainly marry her, since he was so noble. Oh sir, I couldn’t be silent any longer! I have the highest respect for Mr. Darcy and Miss Bennet.” Sara become visibly upset and started shaking slightly.
Mrs. Johnson patted Sara’s hands and handed her a handkerchief. “Sir, Sara was very afraid to speak with you, she enjoys working at Netherfield and does not wish to bring any trouble to your family.”
Bingley nodded thoughtfully. “Well Sara, I trust that you would not deceive me. Mrs. Johnson speaks very highly of you. Mrs. Johnson, please assign my sister another maid, and put Sara wherever you see fit. I thank you Sara for being so honest and brave.”
Sara nodded her gratitude and rose as Mr. Bingley left the room, obviously very disturbed by her confession.
Mr. Darcy rose that morning more cheerful than usual. He felt more certain than ever that he would able to win Elizabeth’s heart when her mourning was over. Lord Stratton had told him the Bennet’s would be traveling to London in six months. He smiled as he thought of dancing with Elizabeth at the Matlock’s ball, or walking with her in Hyde Park. He reverie was broken with a sharp knock on the bedroom door.
“Enter.”
Mr. Bingley entered the bedchamber and closed the door softly behind him. “I’ve come to warn you Darcy, I’ve just had a talk with Sara, Caroline’s maid. She reports Caroline has been scheming ways to trap you into marrying her!” Bingley ran his fingers through is messy hair and continued. “What’s worse, she’s my own sister! I can’t believe this! I spoke to Louisa as well, and she confirmed Sara’s account. She has tried to dissuade her, but Caroline will not listen. She is determined to be mistress of Pemberely!”
“And I am determined she not be.” Darcy answered in a low voice.
“I know, and I am sincerely sorry for this. I just don’t know what to do. You know how Caroline is, she will think of someway to compromise herself and somehow entangle you in the whole mess.”
Darcy nodded and sat down in a leather chair in front of the fireplace. “Bingley, I would not be as angry about his if Georgiana was not here. She should not be exposed to her sister. I mean no offense to you, but Caroline is hardly the perfect role model.”
Bingley nodded and as began pacing the room. He stopped suddenly and turned to Darcy. “I’ve got it! She hates it here in the country, why; I will send her back to London this very instant. I will brook no opposition either. Louisa and Hurst will go back with her, I’m sure they won’t mind. I shall speak to her the moment we return.”
Darcy shook his head in amusement and wondered at his friend who would choose him over his entire family. “I thank you Bingley for your decision, and your efforts to protect me. Now, shall we have breakfast? We have a funeral to attend shortly.
All the gentlemen of Hertfordshire, including some of its guests, attended the funeral of Mrs. Bennet. She was laid to rest later that afternoon, in the family plot adjacent to Longborn. Late that evening, when the entire house was asleep, Mr. Bennet rose from his bed and walked outside to visit his wife’s grave, his grief overwhelming him completely. Elizabeth and Lord Stratton found him there the next morning.
Chapter 6
A hard knock at the door awoke Darcy from his pleasant dream featuring Elizabeth in his bed. Tossing back the covers, he rose from his bed and donned his robe. He opened the door to find Bingley staring back at him.
“Good God Charles, it’s barely dawn!” Darcy muttered, allowing him entrance into his chamber.
They walked across the bedchamber towards the fire to warm themselves from the chilly, damp morning air. Darcy poked the fire in the grate, and as the flames came back to life, Bingley sat down in a chair in front of the fire.
“Darcy, I’ve just had an express from Longbourn from Lord Stratton. Miss Bennet found Mr. Bennet this morning outside at Mrs. Bennet’s grave.”
Darcy gasped and sat down next to Bingley. “Is he well? My God, the night was very cold I’m sure.”
Bingley looked down at the fire and sighed. “He did not survive Darcy. When Miss Bennet found him, he was dead. Thankfully Lord Stratton was with her.”
Darcy shook his head; the thought of his Elizabeth finding her father in such a state pained him to no end.
“I plan to ride to Longbourn after breakfast. Would you like to join me?”
Darcy nodded in agreement and poked the fire some more. He knew the Longbourn estate was entailed to his Aunt’s annoying rector, and he would no doubt take possession as soon as he could turn the Bennet’s out.
“Charles, Longbourn is entailed you know. And no doubt Mr. Collins will be here very soon to take possession.”
Bingley nodded, deep in thought. “Where will they go Darcy? I know their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner will take them in, but I daresay a house full of children, plus the Bennet’s would be quite a burden.”
“Hmm, I agree. I would assume they would live with Lord Stratton. Well, let’s not worry about that now. Let us breakfast and ride to Longbourn.”
Bingley left shortly after their agreement to meet in a half and hour for breakfast. As Darcy waited for his valet, he worried at the pain his Elizabeth was going through, and wanted to get to her as soon as possible.
Jane walked into the drawing room at Longbourn to find Lady Stratton and Aunt Gardiner speaking in hushed tones about their future. The ladies looked up as Jane entered the room.
“Oh Jane!” Aunt Gardiner rose from her chair and went to Jane. “Is Lizzy resting?” Aunt Gardiner asked, her voice full of concern.
Jane sat down across from the ladies and smoothed her black crepe gown over her lap. “Yes, she is resting. Mr. Jones gave her something to calm her down.” Jane paused here, her emotions getting the best of her.
“What we will do? What will become of us? I am sure Mr. Collins will be kind enough to allow us ample time to pack our belongings, but where are we to go?” Jane stifled a sob and covered her face with her hands.
Aunt Gardiner rushed to her side and put her arms around her pretty niece. “My dear, it will be alright. Why don’t you go up and rest, and we’ll have a tray sent up later with tea.”
Jane nodded and rose from her chair, and after giving a thankful smile to her Aunts, she walked upstairs to her bedroom and to the comfort of her bed.
Aunt Gardiner and Lady Stratton watched their niece leave the room with worried faces.
“Madeline, we must prepare the girls for the arrival of Mr. Collins. He will be here as soon as he hears of my brother’s demise, and I don’t think Elizabeth will be able to hold her tongue.”
“I agree completely. He is such an odious man.”
Lady Stratton nodded. She had met the man once, and was not impressed with his mode of address, and his fawning over her title. “Madeline, I know with your children at home, your house is almost full. We would love to have the girls live with us, but if you and Edward want them to stay with you, we would not be offended.”
“I do hate having to discuss this! I know Edward and Robert are discussing this as we speak. Should we wait and speak to the girls as well?”
Before Lady Stratton could answer, the gentlemen in question entered the drawing room and took seats next to their wives. Lord Stratton patted his wife’s hand and smiled at Madeline Gardiner.
“Well ladies, we have some decisions to make. I would like to wait to make the final decision until Elizabeth is well enough to leave her room, but until then, we have some issues to take care of.”
Mr. Gardiner nodded in agreement. “Quite right. We must inform Mr. Collins, as I’m sure he will take possession quickly. Our brother Thomas left no instructions as to the living arrangements of the girls. I’m sure he didn’t imagine taking his leave of us so soon.”
The ladies nodded, and Mrs. Gardiner wiped her eyes gently. “We have been discussing this as well my dear.”
Lord Stratton rose from his seat and began to pace the room. “Gwyneth and myself would love to have the girls live with us. But, we also know they may feel more comfortable living on Gracechurch Street. We will let them make the final decision, but we must come to an agreement first.”
“My word, we have no room for five girls at Gracechurch Street!” Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed, her eyes tearing slightly. “The children would love to have their cousins, but I’m afraid we don’t have the room.”
“We have the room at the townhouse in Mayfair, and also at Stratton Manor. And, Mr. Darcy is a neighbor at Mayfair, so they will have acquaintances in London close by.” Lady Stratton added, a little uncomfortable.
“The rooms at the townhouse will have to be redecorated before they take up residence there.” Lord Stratton added, placing a comforting hand on his wife’s shoulder.
The ringing of the bell halted the rest of the conversation, and the couples rose to greet their visitors. As Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy entered the room, Lady Stratton suddenly had an idea, but it would have to wait until later.
“We came as soon as we heard about Mr. Bennet. We are so sorry.” Bingley told them, as he and Mr. Darcy were seated.
The Gardiner’s and Lord and Lady Stratton murmured their thanks and rang for the tea.
“How is Miss Bennet?” Darcy asked. “I understand she found Mr. Bennet.”
Lord Stratton nodded. “Yes, she woke me early this morning when she discovered her father wasn’t in the house. We immediately began searching for him, but Elizabeth knew where to look. He had been there for quite some time. Oh how I wish she had not have found him, and it would have been myself with Mr. Gardiner. She has not been down from her room since.”
Darcy leaned back in his chair and imagined the scene this morning of Elizabeth finding her father, dead at the foot her mother’s grave and shuddered.
“Sir, may I be so bold to ask, what will happen to the Miss Bennet’s now. I’m sure you are aware of Mr. Collins will want to take immediate possession of Longbourn.”
“Mr. Darcy, you do yourself credit, having concern for my nieces at such a horrible time. We were actually just speaking of their future.” Lady Stratton began, but was interrupted by Hill appearing in the doorway.
“Pardon me ma’am. Miss Bennet is awake and asking for Mrs. Gardiner and her ladyship.”
The ladies nodded, took their leave of the gentleman, and made haste to Elizabeth’s bedchamber. Mrs. Gardiner slowly opened the door to see a pale Elizabeth sitting up in her bed, and Jane sitting next to her.
Oh my dear Lizzy.” Aunt Gardiner exclaimed, as she and Lady Stratton entered the room and sat down on the bed next to her. Lady Stratton sat at her left, and promptly took a hold of her hand. Elizabeth smiled at her Aunt and covered their hands with her other one.
“I can’t believe he’s gone.” Lady Stratton simply said, tears coming down her face.
Elizabeth nodded and looked over to her Aunt Gardiner, who was embracing Jane while she wept. Seeing Jane’s grief was too much for Elizabeth to bear, and she burst into tears. Lady Stratton, whom she had only known for a short while, embraced her tightly, just like a mother would.
After the ladies had quitted the drawing room to attend Elizabeth, the gentlemen found their way into Mr. Bennet’s library. After pouring glasses of port for everyone, Mr. Gardiner sat down behind the massive oak desk and took out a folded set of papers sealed with a heavy wax seal, the Bennet crest affixed in the center.
Lord Stratton sat down across from Mr. Gardiner and eyed the papers warily, knowing it to be his brother’s final will. Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, uncomfortable and feeling they should take their leave so more private family matters could be discussed among the gentlemen, began to offer their goodbyes.
Lord Stratton stood quickly and addressed the gentlemen. “Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley please stay. Do not feel that you are unwelcome. I’m sure Mr. Gardiner would agree.”
Mr. Gardiner nodded, and motioned for them to sit. “I’m not totally unversed in the act of courting young ladies, but I daresay you two gentlemen are smitten with my nieces.”
They nodded and looked at each other sheepishly. Mr. Gardiner smiled and Lord Stratton stifled a chuckle. “Well then, in my opinion, since you will undoubtedly become members of this family eventually, you are more than welcome to stay as we discuss our brother’s will. I think we could also use some advice as well.”
With that out of the way, Mr. Gardiner broke open the seal and smoothed out the papers before him. “Well, I think we all know that the estate is entailed to Mr. Collins, and that an express must be sent to him soon.” He paused slightly, a shocked expression on his face. He squinted his eyes a bit, and looked up at Lord Stratton curiously.
“There is something…” His voiced trailed off as he handed the papers to Lord Stratton, who accepted them and began reading. He had the same reaction of Mr. Gardiner and handed the missive over to Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley.
Mr. Bingley read the document over Mr. Darcy’s shoulder, his face showing extreme surprise.
“What do you make of this?” Lord Stratton asked Mr. Gardiner, who was shaking his head. Smiling, he looked up at Lord Stratton and winked.
“Thomas was always smart businessman, but I didn’t expect to see this. Why, there is enough money for each of the girls to have sizable dowry’s!” Mr. Gardiner exclaimed.
Mr. Darcy shook his head as he read the last will and testament of Thomas Bennet, second son to the Earl of Stratton. The estate left twenty-five thousand pounds to the Bennet daughters; making their dowry’s five thousand pounds each.
Lord Stratton rose from his seat and began pacing the room. “I was prepared to bestow dowry’s on each daughter, at least enough to see them married well.” At that, he turned to look at Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. “Well gentlemen, what do you think of this turn of events? I daresay you were ready to marry Jane and Elizabeth regardless of their dowry.”
Mr. Gardiner let out a chuckle as Mr. Bindley’s color deepened to a dark red and Mr. Darcy’s turned pink as well. Lord Stratton laughed and clapped Mr. Bingley on the back soundly.
“Ah well, I couldn’t imagine any better a suitor for Jane and Elizabeth.” Lord Stratton told them. “My dear Mr. Gardiner, we should send an express to Mr. Collins as quickly as possible. I am quite sure he will most anxious to take control of Longbourn.”
Mr. Gardiner nodded in agreement. “I will have the servants begin packing the girls belongings. We must take them away from here before Mr. Collins arrives, for I am sure our dear Lizzy would not like to deal with his compliments.”
Chapter 7, Part I
Posted on Monday, 3 April 2006
Mr. Collins,It is with a great sadness that I inform you of your Uncle’s death the day before yesterday. I know that you will be most anxious to take over the management of Longbourn House, but I ask that in your most gracious Christian generosity, you delay your arrival so that we may make arrangements for your cousins. Please respond with the date of your arrival.
Yours Sincerely,
Robert Gardiner
Mr. Gardiner folded the letter carefully and lit a candle for the wax when the door to the study burst open. Elizabeth stormed into the room and shut the door loudly behind her.
“How could you!” Elizabeth said to her Uncle, tears streaming down her face. “How could you let that horrible man take over this estate? I will not let him!”
Mr. Gardiner rose from his seat quickly and came around the desk and escorted Elizabeth to a chair.
“My dear, I have no control over the entailment! It was written many years ago, well before you were born. You knew this, you’ve known for many years Mr. Collins would take Longbourn when your father passed.”
Elizabeth looked up at him, a mixture of anger and sadness radiating from her eyes. “Is there nothing to be done? I am mistress of this house, and I do not wish to move.”
Mr. Gardiner sighed and patted her hand gently. “Oh Lizzy, do you think we want you to move? I do not wish to see Mr. Collins here anymore than you do, but we must.”
“Can not Lord Stratton do something? Surely there is something that can be done, for I will not let Longbourn be turned over to him. I should surely wish to die first! Please Uncle, there must be something!”
The door opened suddenly and revealed Lord Stratton, winded and with a look of worry on his face. He came into the room and shut the door behind him. Seeing the distraught look on his niece’s face, he took a seat next to her.
“My dear, I know you are upset about the entail…” He began, but was cut off by Elizabeth.
“I will not let Mr. Collins take Longbourn! It will not be borne! He does not deserve this place, let him simper away at Lady Catherine in Kent, but do not let him come here!”
Lord Stratton sighed and took Elizabeth’s hand. “My dear, there is nothing to be done. My uncle wrote the entail many years ago, when your father came here. There is no way out.”
Elizabeth rose from her seat and began pacing the room frantically. “There has to be something. He does not deserve to live here! This is our home, and I will not let that sniveling, odious man take over my father’s affairs! I will do it myself!”
“Lizzy!” Mr. Gardiner exclaimed. “You cannot take on an estate, you are a lady.”
Lord Stratton sat with an amused expression on his face and dared chuckle openly at Mr. Gardiner’s remark. Elizabeth turned at looked at him, aghast as to why he was smiling.
“Pray tell me, your lordship, what do you find so amusing?” Elizabeth asked him impertinently.
Before Mr. Gardiner could admonish her for her rude question, Lord Stratton waved him away and looked at Elizabeth. “My dear, you seem quite determined, just like my mother. You are quite a bit like her, and I daresay your father knew this. But my dear, you must listen to reason, your Uncle Gardiner is right, ladies do not run estates.”
Elizabeth sat back down in the chair with a defiant huff and glared and the gentleman before her. Her head was throbbing and her emotions were in turmoil. “Well, if there is nothing you can do, then I guess we leave.”
Lord Stratton sighed and turned to look out the window, heartbroken that he could not help his brother’s children. He didn’t want Mr. Collins to take over Longbourn either.
He turned to face Mr. Gardiner sitting behind the desk and had a thought. “My dear Mr. Gardiner, is the entail here in this library anywhere?”
Confused, and with a bewildered look on his face, Mr. Gardiner nodded.
“May I take a look?”
Mr. Gardiner opened the bottom drawer of the oak desk and pulled out a roll of parchment that had seen several years of wear. He untied the string around the paper and unrolled it for Lord Stratton, and now Elizabeth, who became curious, to review.
Lord Stratton bent over the document and began to read. Elizabeth also began to read, but was not sure as to what she was reading. After a few moments, Lord Stratton stood straight, and with a smile on his face, turned to Elizabeth.
“My dear, I may have found something.”
Mr. Gardiner looked up from sealing the express to Mr. Collins and drew in a quick breath. “Really? What did you find?”
Lord Stratton sat down next to Elizabeth and took her hand. “The only way I see out of the entail is for Longbourn to be purchased. If Mr. Collins would agree to the sale, then all we would need is a buyer.”
“No! My dear Uncle, we could never sell Longbourn! This house has been in the family for years.” Elizabeth exclaimed, her hand around her throat in shock.
Lord Stratton patted her hand and rose from his chair. “Well, what if I buy it from Mr. Collins? If he is as devoted to Lady Catherine as you say he is, he may not wish to leave Kent and be agreeable to the sale.”
Mr. Gardiner shook his head in disbelief and Elizabeth rose from her chair to stand before Lord Stratton, tears brimming in her eyes. “Sir, I could not ask you to so such a thing. It is such a generous offer, but I could not let you go through with it, my conscience will not allow it.”
“My dear, for all these years your father and I kept our distance, mainly because I disapproved of his choice to stay here and not come to town. We missed out on so much of your lives. We would love nothing more than to bring you to London with us, then later to Stratton, but I could not live with myself if I let Longbourn slip away. Let us talk with Mr. Collins; we may be able to work something out. And if this happens, then we will stay here with you for as long as we can.”
Mr. Gardiner, who was watching this exchange with shock, suddenly remembered two gentlemen that most definitely would be affected. “Lizzy, I think you should know this, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley have asked permission to court you and Jane after your mourning. What will happen if you get married? What will become of Longbourn then? You can’t leave Mary, Kitty and Lydia here alone. You must think of the future my dear.”
Elizabeth turned towards Mr. Gardiner with an astonished look upon her face. “You are certain Uncle? Mr. Darcy wants to court me?”
Mr. Gardiner laughed and shook his head. “Yes Lizzy, Mr. Darcy wants to court you. Why, you act surprised!”
Elizabeth sat down in the chair again and just shook her head, no words coming from her lips.
Lord Stratton smiled at the pair and sat back down next to Elizabeth. “Well, let us send for Mr. Collins. He must be somewhat of an agreeable man, to be a clergyman. Perhaps he isn’t interested in Longbourn.”
Elizabeth emitted a rather unladylike snort and Mr. Gardiner laughed aloud heartily. “Oh, my dear Uncle, Mr. Collins is most certainly interested in Longbourn.”
She then proceeded to tell him of the proposal he made unto her, and the suffering she endured at the hands of her mother for refusing him so adamantly.
“So you see Uncle, he is very much interested in Longbourn. I must prepare myself for his residence I suppose.”
Lord Stratton patted her knee and stood to leave. “Don’t loose all hope dear.” He quitted the room, leaving Mr. Gardiner and Elizabeth staring at each other.
“Uncle, you must stop him. We must not allow him to buy Longbourn!” She cried, looking at her Uncle imploringly.
Mr. Gardiner smiled at his niece and rose from his seat. “My dear, let’s just wait and see what happens. You are forgetting one very important matter.”
“What is that?” She asked, having no idea of what he was talking.
Mr. Gardiner came around the desk and looked at Elizabeth. “My dear, do you not remember? Surely your mother never ceased in speaking of it. It has been the curse of every Mistress of Longbourn, not one of them has borne a son. This house has always been entailed away to some cousin, but never a son. I wouldn’t worry too much about Mr. Collins, he may come to live at Longbourn, but if history holds, it will not remain under the Collins’ name for long. So you see my dear, when you are married you must be sure to bear two sons. One for his father’s estate, and one to take Longbourn.”
Elizabeth just looked at him with a vacant expression on her face. With a chuckle, Mr. Gardiner left Elizabeth alone with her thoughts.
A fortnight later…
The last trunk was packed, and loaded on to the carriage after breakfast. The meal had been a quiet one, the last they would spend at Longbourn. Elizabeth had spent most of the morning ignoring Kitty and Lydia’s excited chatter about going to London, and all the balls they dreamed of attending. It was no use telling them they would not be attending any balls this season, they hadn’t listened anyway. It was fast approaching the time for Mr. and Mrs. Collins to arrive, and as much as she wished to see Charlotte again, this was a circumstance under which they wished to meet.
After several hours of thought, and several late night conversations with Jane, she had convinced Lord Stratton not to offer to buy Longbourn from Mr. Collins. Jane had made her see reason, and so Elizabeth had agreed to journey to the North to Stratton, and their Uncle’s estate. They would stay there the remainder of the summer, and then would return to London for the season in which they could not participate. They would be spending their time at their Uncle’s homes, and their Uncle Gardiner’s. Their primary residence would be the house in Mayfair, and would only spend a few months in Stratton.
“Lizzy, we are about to leave, are you sure you want to wait for the Collins’s?” Her Aunt Gardiner asked her.
She nodded slowly. “Yes, I am sure. I would like to see Charlotte again, and to show them around the estate. We will be in London by this evening I’m sure.”
Aunt Gardiner nodded and gave Elizabeth a warm hug, then took her leave. Elizabeth followed her to the carriage and said goodbye to her sisters. After a long hug from Jane, and the promise of seeing her this evening, the Bennet’s left in the comfort of the Gardiner’s spacious new carriage. Elizabeth turned to see Lord and Lady Stratton smiling at her warmly.
Her Aunt held out her hands and led Elizabeth back inside the house. “Lizzy, we will be in the drawing room. I know you wanted to speak with the staff before leaving, so we will leave you to it. We will come find you when Mr. Collins arrives.”
Elizabeth nodded and made her way to the kitchen, where she knew she would find Hill, Sarah, Cook, and all the other servants that she had grown up with. After a tearful goodbye, Elizabeth made her way back to the drawing room to sit with her Aunt and Uncle. The Collins would be expected any minute, as Mr. Collins had insisted that they leave before daybreak.
Well into the late afternoon a carriage finally pulled up outside Longbourn. Lady Stratton cast an irritate glance at her husband, who in turn looked to Elizabeth. She shrugged and they all made their way to the door to greet Charlotte and Mr. Collins.
Mr. Collins was already bowing and scraping to his relatives from the minute his feet left the carriage. So much that he didn’t even turn to hand his wife down, a stable boy from Longbourn did instead. After introductions were made for Charlotte, they went inside.
Elizabeth walked through the doorway with a twinge of sadness as Mr. Collins started spewing forth improvements he would make to the comfortable home. Her sadness quickly turned to anger when Mr. Collins mentioned redecorating her father’s study with ornate items given to him personally by Lady Catherine.
“Surely Mr. Collins,” Elizabeth said with great mock concern. “A clergyman in your position would not want to have too fine of a home, or too many materialistic possessions. What would your bishop say?”
Charlotte bit back a chuckle and Lord Stratton beamed at Elizabeth while Mr. Collins considered her statement.
“Your principles do you credit cousin, and while her Ladyship has been most generous, perhaps we should not furnish our home too richly.”
Before Elizabeth could respond, he continued. “And my dear cousin, let me just say that are the epitome of graciousness during your period of mourning and this adjustment period. Considering certain events.” At this, Mr. Collins leered at Elizabeth and Lady Stratton’s face became flushed with anger.
“Considering what certain events, Mr. Collins?” Lady Stratton spat.
Elizabeth and Charlotte became uneasy and Mr. Collins began to stammer forth apologies accentuated with low, scraping bows. The remainder of the tour was taken in relative silence, and when they were through, Elizabeth asked to visit her father’s library one last time. Lord and Lady Stratton took their leave and Elizabeth stood in her father’s library alone.
With tears in her eyes, she looked around the room, almost picturing her father sitting behind the desk reading or working on figures.
“Oh Papa. I am so sorry I couldn’t save Longbourn.” And with that she turned and left without saying a word to the Collins’s.
Elizabeth walked outside to her Uncle’s carriage, and was surprised by Mr. Darcy waiting to hand her up.
She quickly wiped her eyes and curtsied. “Mr. Darcy, I didn’t expect to see you out here.”
He bowed to her and smiled. “Well, after discussion with your Uncles last night, it was decided that a little extra protection was needed on your trip today.”
“Extra protection, sir? From whom?” She asked.
He held out his hand to her and she accepted his help into the carriage. Darcy leaned his head in to answer her question. “Miss Bennet, there are a group of bandits between Meryton and the next stop. They have not made any trouble recently. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley rode along with the first party, but we thought it best if someone rode along with your party.”
She nodded along with Lord and Lady Stratton. “Thank you Mr. Darcy, but I fear you will become wet, as it looks like rain.”
“A little rain will not hurt me.” He told them. He closed the carriage door and Elizabeth watched through the window as he mounted a beautiful tall black horse.
She felt herself become flushed, and wondered at the reason. She pondered this as the carriage began to leave. “Mr. Darcy’s horse certainly is tall.”
“Yes Lizzy, he is quite large. I believe his name is Cyclone, and he is Darcy’s prized stallion.” Lord Stratton paused before he continued with a chuckle. “I believe Bingley is afraid of that horse, in fact I think Cyclone threw him at one time.”
Elizabeth smiled at her Uncle and then noticed another horse tied to the carriage with a saddle. “Whose horse is that Uncle?”
“That fine steed is mine. I brought him along to survey the estate and thought I might fancy a ride at some point in our journey. I hope you like horses Lizzy, we have several and your Aunt loves to ride the estate with me. Maybe you would like to learn as well.”
Elizabeth nodded and saw they were already well away from Longbourn, and her relatives had made her painful parting with her childhood home easier. They passed through Meryton, and Elizabeth noticed all the shops her mother would frequent for a bit of lace here, a new ribbon there. With a heavy heart, she bid her town farewell as the heavy downpour began.
Chapter 7, Part II
Posted on Thursday, 6 April 2006
It steadily rained as the carriage rolled along, the occupants making conversation, and Mr. Darcy riding silent sentry outside. Elizabeth was taken in by his kindness to her family, and his offer of protection on their journey. She wondered at her feelings, since she had only seriously disliked the man a few weeks before. He had admitted to loving her, and his actions recently had confirmed those feelings. He had never properly courted her though, and was still uncertain if she returned a portion of his feelings. She had no doubts in regards to his behavior towards Mr. Wickham, but the interference between Jane and Mr. Bingley still angered her, even though Mr. Bingley had come back. She could hear her mother now, going on and on about Mr. Bingley’s five thousand a year. She shuddered to think what her reaction might have been to the news that Mr. Darcy wished to court herself. Her thoughts were interrupted though by the harsh jostling of the carriage, and its abrupt cease in movement.
Lord Stratton immediately opened the door and muttered an oath. He stepped out into the wet weather and shut the carriage door behind him.
A little uneasy and full of curiosity, Elizabeth quickly moved across to sit next to her Aunt, who had also become uneasy. They joined hands and reassured each other as they listened to the storm rage outside. A few moments later, her Uncle and Mr. Darcy opened the door of the carriage.
Seeing the unease of his wife and his new favorite niece, he spoke to them in a gentle voice. “Ladies, we have become stuck in a very deep rut. We are but a mile from the Inn. While we could wait out the weather, I would rather not risk our safety. If you would be willing, we could all get to the Inn on horseback, while the footmen tend to the carriage.”
“Horseback?” Elizabeth asked, her eyes widening in shock.
Lord Stratton smiled at her. “Yes Lizzy, it’s the quickest way to get you to the Inn.”
Elizabeth, knowing her Aunt would ride with her Uncle, turned to look at Mr. Darcy, and then out the carriage window to the black horse stood pawing at the ground. She felt her face become red with embarrassment.
“Lizzy, what do you say? I know it’s not quite proper for you to ride with Mr. Darcy, but your Uncle and I will be right along side you. And considering our situation, I do not see another alternative.”
Elizabeth nodded and turned to Mr. Darcy. “Well then. Shall we go then?”
Lady Stratton let out a laugh and patted her hand. “That’s a brave girl.”
“I must admit, I am a little afraid of your horse Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth told him.
Darcy stood there, dripping wet, with a blank expression on his face. His mind however was not blank; it was racing with the knowledge that she had agreed to ride with him, and the thought of her sitting so near himself.
“Mr. Darcy?”
He shook his head as the three looked at him. “I’m sorry, what did you say Miss Bennet?”
She smiled at him slightly, and then looked out the window again at the great black beast still pawing the ground. “I said that I am a little afraid of your horse, sir. I was thrown when I was a young girl, and since then I haven’t been very fond of horses.”
Mr. Darcy looked at her, and with a chuckle he turned to look at Cyclone. “Miss Bennet, I assure you, he is very well trained horse, and I won’t let any harm come to you.”
Elizabeth felt her heart skip a beat and just nodded. Lord Stratton had already come around to assist her in exiting the carriage as Mr. Darcy brought the horses around. She pulled her heavy black cloak around her tightly, and retied her bonnet, as Lady Stratton did the same. The ladies exited the carriage carefully, and were helped to a grassy area just off the road where Mr. Darcy was waiting. The rain was coming down heavily now, and crashes of thunder echoed in their ears.
Lord Stratton mounted his horse as Mr. Darcy and a footman helped Lady Stratton as she pulled herself up to her to the safety of her husband’s arms. Elizabeth began to feel nervous as the time drew near for her to mount Mr. Darcy’s horse. She watched as he drew himself up on the horse and Elizabeth walked to him with the footman following. She looked up to see Mr. Darcy extending his hand to her, and suddenly she was seated in front of him. She looked down to the footman, and realized he hadn’t helped her up; Mr. Darcy had done it himself.
After settling her in front of him, Mr. Darcy put his right arm around her waist and grasped the reins with his left hand. “Miss Bennet, I know this is very awkward, but you will need to hold on to me.”
She nodded and slid her left arm around him and grasped the lapels of his great coat with her right hand. She tried desperately not to let her head rest against his chest, but the movement of the horse almost made it impossible, so she gave up and rested her head against him. She could see her Aunt and Uncle riding next to them, her Aunt clearly enjoying the closeness with her husband. Elizabeth dared to glance up at Mr. Darcy as he was staring at the road ahead of them. She took this opportunity to take in his features; the strong lines of his jaw, and his full lips. She inhaled deeply and caught a clean, musky scent that made her head spin. She quickly turned her gaze away, fearing she might be caught in her inspection. The rain was blowing now, and the warm morning that she had woken up to now turned into a chilling afternoon. Even though the wool of her cloak was quite thick, she knew she would be very wet by the time this ride ended. She began to shiver, and in response Mr. Darcy tightened his grip around her waist.
“Miss Bennet, are you alright?” He asked, his head dipping down to look at her.
She nodded slightly, mortified and excited at the same time at the closeness they were sharing. He turned his gaze to the road ahead. Some time later, they finally reached the inn. A footman had ridden ahead to inform the innkeeper of their arrival, so their rooms would be ready when they arrived.
They stopped at the door to the small inn, and Mr. Darcy relinquished his hold on Elizabeth and dismounted his horse. He then reached up to grasp her about the waist and gently set her on he ground. She swayed slightly, and kept his hold on her waist to steady her.
She looked up at him, a deep blush creeping up her throat and to her face. “I am sorry.” She said to him, and then walked over to her Aunt and Uncle and then into the inn.
Darcy stood there for a moment in the rain, confused but excited at the same time. He was confused by her apology, and excited at being so close to her. He could still smell her scent, a light rose spiced with sandalwood, and it made his head spin. He pushed his feelings aside and followed them inside the inn.
Lady Stratton and Elizabeth followed the innkeepers’ wife up the stairs to their rooms while Lord Stratton and Mr. Darcy had expresses sent to London to let the Gardiner’s and Colonel Fitzwilliam know of their whereabouts. The gentleman followed the innkeeper several minutes later to find the ladies warming themselves by the fire in a sitting room.
Elizabeth sat wrapped in a thick blanket while Lady Stratton was fixing her some tea. She was chilled to the bone, pale, and her head had begun to throb with the rhythm of her heart. Mr. Darcy took one look at her and started for her when he was interrupted.
“Ah, Mr. Darcy sir.” Darcy turned to see the innkeeper directly behind him.
“Yes?” He asked, shrugging out of his greatcoat and handing it to the servant waiting, and trying to keep the annoyance out of his voice. This man had accommodated their every need after all, he chastised himself.
“Your room is across the hall sir. Smithy here can show you when you are ready. Dinner is at eight o’clock.” He motioned to an older man who stood in the doorway.
Mr. Darcy nodded and thanked the innkeeper, then turned to see Elizabeth raise her cup to take a sip, her hand shaking slightly.
“We would like some trays brought up before then, if that’s possible. We haven’t had lunch.” Lord Stratton told him.
“Yes your lordship, they will be sent up directly.” The innkeeper answered, then turned and left the room.
Lord Stratton poured two glasses of brandy, then slapped Darcy on the back and handed him a glass. “Well my boy, that was some ride! I don’t think I’ve seen a storm like this for quite some time.”
Darcy nodded. “I would agree. Very fierce. Are you all right Miss. Bennet?”
Elizabeth and Lady Stratton turned to look at him. Lady Stratton spoke up first. “She is fine Mr. Darcy, just a little chilled.”
Darcy nodded then looked to Elizabeth for an answer. “I am fine sir, thank you.”
After some light conversation, consisting of mostly the weather, Mr. Darcy left them for the comfort of his room. He wanted nothing more than a warm bath and a meal. After requesting water be brought up, he took off his coat and sat by the fire, pondering Elizabeth’s apology. He was still quite confused over it, and worried for her health. He gazed at the roaring fire engrossed in his thoughts until roused by the man called Smithy, who had steaming water for a bath.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth had retired to her room, which was adjoining to the sitting room. A young maid named Beth had come to assist her with her clothing, and to bring her water for a bath. Beth was a sturdy girl with red hair and brilliant green eyes that danced in the light. Elizabeth was still chilled, but she thought a warm bath might help. She eased herself down into the water, letting the warmth envelope her. She smiled as the maid sprinkled some scented oil into the water.
“Do you get many visitors like us?” She asked the Beth, who was hanging up Elizabeth’s black gown.
“Some ma’am, not very often though. The oil is some that I made, I thought you might like it.”
Elizabeth nodded and inhaled the soft scent of lavender as it wafted around her.
“I smell the lavender, but what else…?”
“Rose ma’am.”
“Oh.” Elizabeth said to her. She cleaned herself and let Beth wash her hair, then sat wrapped up in a warm nightgown and a thick robe while the maid brushed out her long curls. Not used to such pampering, she bade the maid to let her do it herself, but Beth would hear nothing of it.
“His lordship asked your every need be attended ma’am. Sally will be bringing up a tray for you soon as well.” She answered, drying Elizabeth’s hair with a towel.
Elizabeth nodded and succumbed to Beth’s hands drying her hair. The pounding in her head had become worse, and she quickly became chilled again sitting next to the fire. Beth noticed this, and became somewhat alarmed.
“Miss, let me get you some wine, maybe that will help. I will inform her ladyship.”
Before Elizabeth could protest, a warm blanket was wrapped around her shoulders, a glass of wine appeared in her hand, and Beth was already making her way through the sitting room and knocking on her Aunt and Uncle’s door. So she sat there and tried to warm herself while sipping the wine. It did little to help the pounding within her head, and she knew then that she prayed she would not become feverish before the night was through. She was of a healthly constitution, and rarely took sick. She spied Lady Stratton coming through her door with a worried look on her face.
“Oh Elizabeth, you are not well! Let’s get you into bed. Where’s that tray?”
Beth scurried away to find the missing tray as Lady Stratton helped Elizabeth to her bed. After arranging the blankets around her and stoking the fire, she pulled a chair over to the bedside and sat down.
“I’m sorry you are ill Elizabeth. If only the carriage hadn’t gotten stuck, we could be in London by now!”
Elizabeth patted her Aunt’s hand and smiled. “It could not be helped I suppose. At least the bandits on the road did not give us any trouble.”
“Yes.” Her aunt agreed. “I am thankful for that.”
Beth appeared with a tray full of fruit, cheeses and bread, and then left the ladies alone. Elizabeth tried to eat, but found she was becoming weaker with every bite. Her aunt watched as Elizabeth lay back against the pillows and fell asleep. Quietly, so not to disturb her, she rose and put her hand to Elizabeth’s face. It was warm, but not alarmingly warm. Lady Stratton left Elizabeth’s room to find her husband and to inform him of her health. She found him and Mr. Darcy in the sitting room.
“Elizabeth is unwell, she is resting now, but she is becoming feverish.” She said, and sat down on the settee next to the fire.
The room was silent except for the heavy rain beating against the window. Lady Stratton stated she would stay with Elizabeth while the gentlemen went down to dinner.
Lord Stratton rose from his seat and began pacing the room. “We must leave at first light. This drafty inn will not help her health. Even if she shouldn’t be moved, I would rather she be in London.”
Darcy nodded as Lord Stratton continued. “And there’s something funny about that maid Beth.”
“What is that my dear? She seems a good girl, very obliging.”
“I’m not sure, but something is peculiar. Something familiar.”
“Well, she certainly has taken good care of our niece. She told me she would sit with Elizabeth through the night so I could rest. I think you may be right about her though. Such a pity, she is a nice girl.” Lady Stratton said as she watched her husband pace the room.
“Well Darcy, shall we dine then?”
The gentlemen left the room and Lady Stratton went back into Elizabeth’s room to see Beth sitting next to the bed, reading Shakespeare aloud. She stopped when she noticed she was not alone.
“I beg your pardon, your ladyship.” She said as she hurriedly curtseyed. “I will leave now.”
“No, Beth, you may stay. You seem genuinely concerned about Miss Bennet’s welfare.”
Beth blushed and sat back down in her chair while Lady Stratton sat on the other side of bed. “Yes your ladyship, I am. She seems a very wonderful lady and I do not wish to see her ill.”
Lady Stratton studied Beth for quite some time before deciding she might as well curb her curiosity. “Beth, I must say you are very adept at your duties, have you been a ladies maid somewhere before?”
Beth looked up sharply and then hung her head. She knew she couldn’t lie. “Yes ma’am.”
“May I ask where, and how you came to be here?”
Beth rose from her chair and began walking about the room. “I was born in Brighton, where my father was a steward on a seaside estate. My mother died in birth, so the housekeeper raised me, as my father was not home all that often. He died when I was sixteen. The master didn’t know what to do with me, and I was asked to stay on to be a ladies maid to the new mistress. She was very kind and gentle, and I loved her dearly. The housekeeper, Mrs. Wright, taught me everything I know about ladies and how they should be tended to. My mistress died in childbirth, and I was no longer needed. Mrs. Wright contacted my Uncle, and I came to live here. Mrs. Johnson is my aunt, and my only family.”
Lady Stratton listened to her with rapt attention, and did not say anything until Beth sat back down.
“My dear, couldn’t they have found another place for you? Surely a well trained ladies maid could find another mistress to serve.”
“My master did not try to seek out another place for me to go, he asked Mrs. Wright to send me to my family.”
Lady Stratton remained silent, but raised a questioning eyebrow at Beth. She was silent for several minutes, and then suddenly she burst into tears.
“Oh your ladyship! I’m not being entirely truthful with you! It was Mrs. Wright that had me sent away!” She cried.
Lady Stratton, shocked at the outburst, quickly became sympathetic. “My dear, calm down. Were you caught in an inappropriate manner with someone?”
“My master!” Beth nodded between sobs and Lady Stratton sighed.
“You certainly aren’t the first ladies maid to be taken advantage of in that way. Did he compromise you, may I ask?”
Beth shook her head no. “No your ladyship, he did not. Mrs. Wright came in and he left me alone. It was right after my mistress died. He said he was lonely, and that no one would need to know. I knew it was wrong, and I tried to get away, but he was too strong.”
Lady Stratton nodded, but remained silent. Nothing infuriated her more than a gentleman dallying with servants, especially young ladies who don’t know any better, and are just trying to please their employer. It seemed to her that Beth was a very capable ladies maid, and her talents were being wasted at the inn.
“Beth, if you had the opportunity, would you become a ladies maid again? For another mistress?”
Beth looked up at her and slowly nodded. “Yes your ladyship, nothing brought me more pleasure. I am indebted to my aunt and uncle for taking me in, but I long to serve a lady again.”
“Hmm.” Was Lady Stratton’s reply. The two ladies sat there for the remainder of the evening, only to be interrupted by a tray that was sent up for Lady Stratton, and Mr. Darcy and Lord Stratton checking in on them. A little before midnight, Lady Stratton informed Beth that was going to retire.
“Good night your ladyship. I will stay here with Miss Bennet.”
Lady Stratton nodded to her and bid her good night. She walked to her room to find her husband waiting up for her. She prepared for bed in the small dressing room and then joined her husband on the bed.
“My dear, I have found out what is so peculiar about Beth.”
Lord Stratton chuckled and kissed her cheek. “I had no doubt you would. What did she say?”
Lady Stratton informed him of Beth’s past, including being sent away by the housekeeper. Lord Stratton became angry for the girl, as he shared the same opinion of his wife regarding dallying with servants.
“My dear, I wish to have her for Elizabeth’s ladies maid. She has shown she cares for her well-being, and Elizabeth informed me herself before she fell asleep that she had never been so pampered and tended to so well, they got along well.”
“I thought all the girls were getting French ladies maids? Isn’t that what you wanted? Besides something is quite familiar about her. She is from Brighton you say? I wonder if she worked for Mr. Chamberlain. His wife died in childbirth.”
Lady Stratton thought for a moment. Her own ladies maid, Cozette was an accomplished French maid that was ten years her junior. She knew Cozette would love the opportunity to impart her knowledge. She also knew that the five Bennet sisters would not be comfortable with the kind of French maids she would hire.
“I don’t think French maids would be a good idea. When we reach London, I will inquire about English maids for the girls, but I think Elizabeth would like Beth very much. I will also have Cozette train them.”
Lord Stratton agreed to her plan, and promised to speak with the innkeeper before they left that morning.