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Chapter 11
Posted on Thursday, 12 June 2008
Mr. Darcy looked over the letter before him. Well more than a fortnight had passed since he last laid eyes upon Elizabeth. He had hoped distancing himself and keeping busy would quell his interest, but to no avail. Though he knew the chances to be slim, he had determinedly attended several dinner parties in search of a witty, intelligent young lady of suitable social standing. Yet each attempt at conversation was clouded by comparisons to Elizabeth. She haunted his every dream at night, and by day he began to acknowledge that since his mother’s death, he had never been happier than those few months spent at Netherfield. He continued to be unable to envision a life without her, and began to acknowledge that he had struggled in vain, and should return to Netherfield to reconsider her for his wife. With a resigned sigh, he sealed the letter, went into the hall and approached the nearest footman, requesting that he have the letter posted directly.
A few days later, a servant entered the drawing room at Netherfield Park to deliver the post, completely unaware of the significance a certain letter would hold for the master of the house.
January 10, 18__Charles,
Thank you for your letter and the concern expressed therein regarding my departure. Please forgive any unintentional concern I had caused, as well as the delay in this response. Your missive had to be forwarded from its original destination at Pemberley, as I decided to spend the entirety of the holiday in London. I am sure you had a very joyful holiday; which you may avoid describing with missed words and inkblots as Georgiana and I will accept your invitation to Netherfield, arriving in three weeks time to attend your marriage to Miss Bennet.
Yours etc,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
Mr. Bingley was relieved to finally hear from Mr. Darcy, and just as Jane had predicted, the letter confirmed that nothing was amiss. His sisters enquired as to the contents of the letter that caused such a ridiculous grin on his face, but wishing to avoid their effusions over the Darcys arrival for as long as possible, he instead left the room for a private conference with his housekeeper regarding the preparation of two guest suites.
At long last, the Darcy carriage pulled into the drive at Netherfield. The journey had gone smoothly, and the half-day’s travel was completed in the last minutes of the afternoon’s daylight. Mr. Darcy handed Georgiana out of the carriage, and the pair were instantly greeted by Mr. Bingley. Warm welcomes and heartfelt congratulations were exchanged as the trio entered the house. Mr. Darcy inquired after his sister’s comfort, and when she expressed her desire to rest before the evening meal, Mr. Bingley invited Mr. Darcy to join him in the library.
“It is good to have you back at Netherfield, Darcy.”
“Thank you Bingley. Again, I must apologize for the manner in which I left you. I cannot think upon it without regretting my rudeness.”
“Nonsense, I hope you would expect to find some measure of understanding between friends. Besides, if you feel there is any debt to be repaid, I am certain it will be repaid in full once you have tolerated all of the dinner parties and other gatherings in the upcoming weeks - that is unless you would prefer me to make your excuses.”
“No, that will not be necessary as I am rather looking forward to attending.” Mr. Darcy replied nonchalantly.
Mr. Bingley was shocked by such an uncharacteristic declaration, until he realized the most likely cause of it. Combined with his early arrival for the wedding, Bingley was now further convinced that though the truth was well-hidden by reserve, he was witnessing the anomaly of a besotted Darcy. With a quivering lip the only evidence of his valiantly concealed mirth, he shot his friend a meaningful raised brow.
Mr. Darcy cleared his throat and quickly added, “For Georgiana’s sake that is. She will be coming out next season, and the small, welcoming society here will be much less intimidating for her as she accustoms herself to the idea.”
Neither gentleman felt this reason explained the matter sufficiently, but fortunately for Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley was kind enough not to acknowledge the fact openly.
As the sun rose over the first day of Mr. Darcy’s return to Hertfordshire, he rode out across the property of Netherfield in the direction of Meryton. He was relieved to once again be able to tend the bookshop correspondence personally. He bid good morning to Mr. Awdry, and explaining that his sister had arrived with him from London, selected a few books of a more feminine appeal before disappearing amongst the back shelves. As he had done so often before, he reigned in his horse just outside of the village for a brief respite in which to read the following.
I can well believe that as a young lad, you must have loathed time spent at school rather than in the country, but I must admit I have always been envious of a man’s right to attend universities and delight in their expansive resources. As a child, I spent many hours in my father’s library, at first relishing in his reading of Perrault’s tales, though I am sure in light of our discussions you will believe that my literary tastes have long since matured. I believe I am fortunate that my love of nature conflicts with remaining indoors, else my mother would be forever disgraced by gossip of her recluse daughter who never exposes herself to the light of day.
Her playful words lightened his mood, as they most always did, and he grew more confident in choosing her for his own benefit rather than seeking a socially acceptable bride.
That evening at Mr. and Mrs. Philips’, the Netherfield party were among the last guests to arrive, as Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley had reportedly neglected to remember the engagement for dinner. Thus their departure had been delayed until an exasperated Mr. Bingley left with the Darcys, suggesting his sisters use the Bingley carriage when they were prepared to depart, knowing full well they would be unlikely to attend. Mr. Bingley was quick to find Jane among the other guests, and Mr. Darcy began to look for Elizabeth, yet Mrs. Bennet was quicker and gathered her daughters to greet the new arrivals.
“Mr. Bingley, there you are!” Mrs. Bennet effused, “We had begun to despair for you. And Mr. Darcy, you are very welcome, sir. We are all glad you have returned.” In her own sense of subtlety, Mrs. Bennet glanced in Kitty’s direction, allowing her gaze to linger before turning back to Mr. Darcy.
If any of the contentment Mr. Darcy felt in anticipation of seeing Elizabeth had been visible in his countenance, Mrs. Bennet’s words and manners were its stone death. In a formal and disinterested tone, he performed the introductions between his sister and the Miss Bennets. While he was resigned to accept them, he still could not be pleased with allowing these women to enter his sister’s sphere of influence, and made excuses on their behalf to go and seek refreshment. Elizabeth had observed the gentle expression in Miss Darcy’s eyes, and had hoped to draw her into conversation, but was unable as the two quit their company.
Throughout the evening, Elizabeth’s ire on behalf of Miss Darcy grew. Few of her neighbors were bold enough to approach Mr. Darcy, and though she was never near enough to hear what was said, each seemed to leave their company after only a few words had been exchanged. As was typically their wont, Kitty and Lydia suggested an impromptu dance. Young Mr. Lucas had been bold enough to approach Miss Darcy while her brother refilled her punch, presumably to ask if she might like to join the set. Having observed the scene, Mr. Darcy returned hastily, and Elizabeth knew Mr. Lucas must have been soundly refused as he walked away immediately and Mr. Darcy proceeded to guard his sister like a hawk.
Elizabeth was prone to forming her opinions expeditiously, and was not one to restrain herself from acting upon them. Determined that Miss Darcy was in need of rescue, she approached Jane and Mr. Bingley, and at the first pause in their current conversation, suggested that they join his friend.
“Miss Darcy,” Elizabeth began, “Allow me to say it is a pleasure to have met you at last. Forgive me for not approaching you sooner to welcome you properly.”
Miss Darcy murmured her response such that Elizabeth felt as likely to understand by lip reading as by hearing her.
Perceiving Miss Darcy’s shyness, Jane added, “I am so glad you shall be able to attend our wedding, as you are such a valued acquaintance to Charles and his sisters. Miss Bingley has been quite complimentary of your abilities at the pianoforte.”
Miss Darcy looked stricken, and Mr. Darcy seemed about to speak in her defense.
“Do not concern yourself, Miss Darcy,” Elizabeth interjected with a smile, “if you are not fond of playing in company, for you find a kindred soul in me, and therefore I shall not allow anyone to force you into playing if you are averse to the idea. Though I must confess with my sister Mary to compete with, you may rarely have the opportunity to play, even if you wished it.”
“Thank you, Miss Bennet.” Miss Darcy smiled shyly as she continued, “I admit I do not frequently play in company. I prefer a smaller audience.”
“Aye, as do I. In fact, I must say sometimes the best audience is non-existent!”
Elizabeth laughed gaily, and was soon joined in her merriment by Miss Darcy and the engaged couple. Mr. Darcy looked on in growing admiration, pleased by her gentle and reassuring manner towards his sister. Elizabeth looked at Mr. Darcy, daring him to express his disapproval of their company, before turning away and leaving the gentleman to mistake her glance in his direction for understanding of his sentiments.
Upon returning to Netherfield, Mr. Darcy suggested Georgiana retire for the evening, while he and Mr. Bingley absconded to the library, not wishing to attract the attention of the Hursts and Miss Bingley. Mr. Darcy had thought his first meeting with Elizabeth passed as tolerably as could be expected. Though once again immersed in tedious company, he had not embarrassed or revealed himself, and Georgiana had not been overwhelmed. That is to say she had not been uncomfortable expressing herself to new acquaintances, though Darcy felt she had been overwhelmed with attention from the young gentlemen of the neighborhood.
“Well Bingley, I believe the evening went very well. I should not have been so concerned that Georgiana would be intimidated.”
“Yes, I am glad she felt so comfortable in Jane and Miss Elizabeth’s company. You on the other hand…”
As Mr. Bingley trailed off, Mr. Darcy responded with an inquiring glance.
“Come, Darcy, I realize you are of a reserved nature, and that is a respectable quality, yet I once said I would not be as fastidious as you are for a kingdom, and the statement stands.”
Mr. Darcy frowned at the reference to the assembly in the fall, and dissembled, “Yes, but your manners have always been easier than mine, and as by some miracle my behavior has thwarted the hopes of all but one of the local matrons, I have no desire to change the neighborhood’s opinion of me.”
Bingley threw his head back and laughed. “Well said, Darcy! Considering the excitement that welcomed me to the neighborhood, imagine how they might respond to an easy mannered gentleman of more than double my consequence!”
Mr. Bingley had intended a very different conversation with regard to his friend’s behavior, but Mr. Darcy had deflected his attempt at broaching the subject, and he knew the gentleman’s confidence could not be forced, particularly on the subject of his affections.
Chapter 12
After completing a certain errand in town, Mr. Darcy returned to Netherfield to spend the day with Georgiana. As neither sibling was desirous of spending much time in company with Miss Bingley, the pair excused themselves after luncheon and retreated to the library. The afternoon passed quietly as Georgiana completed her studies while Mr. Darcy addressed a few business matters, and then challenged her to a few games of chess. Before long, Mr. Bingley arrived home and joined his guests in the library. Georgiana excused herself soon after to dress for dinner at the Longs’, leaving the gentleman to talk in peace.
“Well Darcy, as you are my groomsman, I suppose it is high time I sought your counsel regarding whatever pearls of wisdom you might have to offer for my entering the shackles of marriage.”
“I hardly know what you expect me to impart, as I am equally inexperienced in the realm of matrimony. Perhaps Mr. Hurst ought be your advisor?”
Mr. Bingley recoiled in mock horror at the suggestion, and both gentlemen shared a good laugh at the absurdity of the idea.
“All I can say Bingley, is that I am truly happy for your having found a woman to marry with mutual affection. I realize there are some amongst our acquaintance who will not approve of your choice of wife, but do not allow the naysayers to cause you to withdraw from society.”
“If people find Jane half as delightful as I do, I cannot imagine her entrance into high society to be any cause for concern. I doubt there will be much objection to her connections, as my acquaintances have accepted me despite my family’s fortune coming from trade. Besides, I am sure true friends will come round, just as they have for Beaumont.”
Mr. Darcy was unable to maintain eye contact through Mr. Bingley’s last remark, and turned towards the sideboard to refill his glass.
“Do not tell me you have not been in contact with Beaumont since he announced his engagement to the former Miss Howard?”
Mr. Bingley’s eyes widened as Mr. Darcy’s silence confirmed the truth of his supposition.
“Good god man, he was one of our closest friends!” Mr. Bingley cried in shock mingled with exasperation. “Forgive the harsh nature of my outburst, but I admit I expected more of you, Darcy. If I did not know better, I would be concerned that you might intend to drop my acquaintance as well once I am married to Jane.”
“Of course not Bingley, but the situation is not the same. While some may believe you could have married better, it will not be nearly as offensive as the gross difference in situation between Beaumont and his wife. If I did not see the difference, I might have warned you against Miss Bennet, so that you would not come to regret your marriage as Andrew Beaumont surely does.”
Mr. Bingley had always been of a forgiving nature towards the ton, particularly as many of his high society acquaintances from Cambridge had never held his familial origin in trade against him. However, Mr. Darcy’s haughty attitude offended him and he retaliated, “What makes you think he regrets marrying a woman he loves? Do you suppose his love so shallow that other persons’ ill-placed judgment would cause him to resent his wife? You surprise me by holding the opinion of society in such high esteem, as I had always assumed your distaste for London would lead you to disappear in the wilds of Derbyshire once you are married.”
“Yes, just as my parents did.” Mr. Darcy said quietly, almost to himself. He then turned to speak directly to Mr. Bingley, “You raise a fair point. Perhaps the three of us gentleman shall enjoy the company that accepts us without remorse over those who do not.”
Dinner at the Longs was as distasteful to those of elite sensibilities as could be expected, with a very small redemption in the reduced size of the party and thereby smaller number of undignified persons to endure. As the group transitioned to the dining room, Mr. Darcy found he was seated next to his sister, but unfortunately also seated near Miss Bingley and far from Miss Elizabeth. As the meal commenced, he discovered the unfamiliar couple across from him to be Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. Miss Bingley spoke to the Gardiners in a manner both elegantly phrased and decidedly insulting. If Mr. Darcy concurred with her sentiments, he was too polite to reveal the truth of it, and merely listened as Mrs. Gardiner responded to Miss Bingley’s comments with equal elegance and a great deal of tact. While he was reluctant to associate with persons in trade, he admitted that at least the Gardiners seemed to have better manners than Elizabeth’s closer relations.
The remainder of the evening passed in great frustration for Mr. Darcy, as he endured the unpleasantness of country society without the benefit of Elizabeth’s company. He was continually accompanied by Miss Bingley, and Elizabeth made no attempt to approach him. He could not comprehend her motives for sending his sister an occasional smile across the room, while refusing to meet his eye. He could only assume that Miss Bingley’s inescapable presence was a deterrent, and looked forward to calling at Longbourn the next afternoon.
The next morning at breakfast, Elizabeth looked upon her father with a discreetly inquisitive glance, and smiled mischievously as he responded with a wink. Shortly after this exchange, she declared her intention to walk into the village on an errand for her father, and was about to rise from the table when her mother accosted her.
“Lizzy! I demand that you stay home. There is no need for you to go traipsing off, and though your father delights in vexing me and refuses to tell me when Mr. Collins is expected, he is sure to come any day, and I will not have you absent from this house when he comes. Let one of the servants assist your father for heaven’s sake!”
Elizabeth shot her father a glance of mingled pleading and frustration. Her father had yet to correct her mother regarding the true state of affairs regarding Mr. Collins, and while she had never found amusement in the predicament she faced, her father’s seemed endless. Mr. Gardiner observed his niece, and dismayed by the scene before him, cleared his throat and looked pointedly at Mr. Bennet. Swaying under the increasing vexation of his most sensible relations, Mr. Bennet sighed and addressed his wife.
“I regret to inform you, Mrs. Bennet, that there is no need to anticipate the arrival of Mr. Collins, as he will be unable to attend the wedding. Apparently his curate has recently left him, and Mr. Collins has been unable to find a replacement. Thus he will be unable to absent himself from Kent, and I believe Elizabeth may conduct her time as she chooses.”
Mrs. Bennet’s lamentations in response to this news only hastened Elizabeth’s departure. Unfortunately for the remaining members of the household, their matron’s exclamations did not subside, despite the absence of their primary target, and continued even as her least favorite daughter returned to Longbourn. Elizabeth heard the racket upon her approach, and entered the house through the kitchen that she might reach her room without her mother’s knowledge. With a contented sigh at her success, she closed to door and retrieved the fruit of her excursion.
February 5, 18__Surely you realize I need no assurance that your literary tastes go beyond fairy tales from the nursery, though in future years you may have reason to revisit them. Do not think, however, that your exclusion from our nation’s universities has severely hindered your quest for knowledge, as our discussions have shown you more knowledgeable in literature than several of my former classmates. A library can be a retreat where the world is logical, respectable, and free of insipid and frivolous concerns.
Suddenly the noise from below stairs was subdued, and Elizabeth strained to hear the cause of such uncharacteristic restraint. Mrs. Bennet’s tirade had finally been silenced by the arrival of Mr. Bingley in company with Mr. Darcy and Miss Darcy. As Elizabeth heard the announcement of their guests, she hid the note and dutifully went downstairs to join her family in attending them. Once Mrs. Bennet had sufficiently welcomed her future son, she turned her attention to the gentleman she hoped would soon bear the same title. Mr. Darcy soon found himself on a sofa near Mrs. Bennet, across from Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet, and seated next to none other than Miss Catherine. As Mr. Darcy remained silent, struggling for a means of extricating himself, Elizabeth approached Miss Darcy, suggesting they sit together and indicating towards a sofa away from the rest of the group.
“I hope you do not mind being separated from your own party, Miss Darcy. I sometimes find the atmosphere at Longbourn to be rather overpowering and would prefer quiet conversation at present.”
Miss Darcy gave Elizabeth an appreciative smile for so politely claiming this preference as her own. She then glanced towards Mr. Darcy, and noticing her brother looking intently in her direction, gave him a smile as well.
Do not worry, Mr. Darcy, objectionable though I may be, I doubt I can corrupt your sister beyond redemption in just one private conversation. Elizabeth forced these spiteful thoughts from her mind and returned her focus to the shy young lady seated beside her.
“Now that you have passed a few days here, I hope you have enjoyed Hertfordshire.”
“I… have been comfortable at Netherfield. Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley have been quite attentive.”
“I imagine they have! I will not embarrass you by repeating their sentiments, but they speak of you in only the most complimentary of terms.” Observing that her gentle teasing had indeed embarrassed Miss Darcy, she continued, “I hope you have found the weather suitable for exploring the grounds about Netherfield, for they are some of the finest in the area.”
“The weather has been pleasant, though I admit I have not had much chance to view the gardens.” Concerned that Elizabeth may have misunderstood, she added hastily, “That is, I do very much enjoy the outdoors and have thought to ask my brother if he might accompany me about the grounds.”
“I am glad to learn that nature is something for which we share a mutual appreciation, and though I cannot claim our garden to be comparable that of Netherfield, I would be happy to show it to you now if the idea is agreeable to you.”
Miss Darcy readily agreed, and Elizabeth rose to address her mother.
“Mama, Miss Darcy has expressed a wish to see the gardens. I thought perhaps the rest of the party might like to join us.”
Mr. Darcy was quick to join Elizabeth and Georgiana, taking his sister’s arm to escort her out of doors. Refusing to be dismissed by the imposing man, Elizabeth remained and conversed with Miss Darcy on many subjects, pleased to gradually draw her young guest into a greater sense of ease.
The conversation naturally turned towards the north country and Georgiana’s fondness for Derbyshire, and she inquired as to whether Elizabeth had ever occasioned to visit there.
“I regret my travelling adventures are far simpler than you might imagine. I have only gone as far as London with my aunt and uncle Gardiner, though I have heard of the beauties of Derbyshire as my aunt hails from a small town there, Lambton.”
“Why that is but five miles from Pemberley!” Georgiana replied with more animation that Elizabeth had yet seen. “Is it not, brother?”
“Yes, I believe it is.” Mr. Darcy replied tersely.
Elizabeth furrowed her brow, surprised that her young companion was not put off by such a short reply from her brother, yet Georgiana continued without pause, “Then perhaps one day you will see the peaks and wilderness of which I speak, I am sure you would enjoy them.”
Mr. Darcy then spoke with much more civility than he had moments earlier, “I am sure when Miss Bennet comes to Derbyshire, she will have plenty of time to enjoy the vistas.”
Unsure of an appropriate response, and slightly unnerved by the gentleman’s choice of words, Elizabeth changed the subject and asked Georgiana if she had an enjoyable garden in town, as she had mentioned spending a great deal of time in London for her studies.
The ladies’ discourse continued, and was interspersed with rare contributions by Mr. Darcy, most of which were responses to direct questions from his sister. Elizabeth was unable to discern his motives for visiting Longbourn only to show himself unwilling to fully join the conversation. She assumed perhaps he wished to prove himself better mannered than Mr. Bingley’s sisters, who had dined at Longbourn but once and uniformly declined invitations to tea. She considered it equally plausible that Miss Darcy had expressed a desire to become better acquainted with her family, and Mr. Darcy would not permit her attendance without his protection from such inferior manners. If only she had known his true reasons were quite the opposite of any negative suppositions she might have made.
When thinking over their conversation late into the evening, Elizabeth still wondered whether Mr. Darcy had intentionally spoken in terms of when and not if she would venture north. Surely he thought badly enough of her family to realize they had not the means for extensive travelling. The only other explanation she could imagine was that he assumed she would one day be a guest of his sister, but she did not think that likely, and dismissed the idea entirely, leaving her no less confused than she had been when his words were spoken.
Chapter 13
Knowing full well that the confrontation at the breakfast table the previous day had been caused by Elizabeth’s desire to leave a missive amongst Mr. Awdry’s books, Mr. Bennet found himself entering the same establishment the next morning. His suspicions and concerns had only increased with time, and noting his daughter’s increased preoccupation with these communications, his patience had reached its limit. Though he was not fond of taking such trouble, he would not see his favorite daughter hurt at the hands of this gentleman, whom he had begun to fear would never reveal himself. Though he lacked knowledge of when this nameless fellow might visit the shop, he suspected it was the same gentleman who had recently arrived in town. Mr. Bennet had ridden from Longbourn under the pretense of estate business that would last the majority of the day, hoping the gentleman travelled to the bookshop as impatiently as his most favored daughter.
Mr. Awdry needed but a glance at Mr. Bennet’s countenance to guess the motive behind his appearance, and rather wondered why he had not come on such an errand sooner. Mr. Bennet approached the counter and raised his eyebrow. Mr. Awdry merely nodded, silently indicating his assent, and led Mr. Bennet to the far corner of shop where used merchandise was kept. He paused for a moment, drew one book from the shelf, and silently handed it to Mr. Bennet before turning away. Mr. Bennet opened the book and thumbed through the pages, sighing as reached a small fresh sheet tucked within. He turned and seated himself at a nearby table, hoping the gentleman he was about to encounter was a man worthy of his daughter’s trust.
Mr. Darcy entered and moved to the back of the store, anxiously anticipating Elizabeth’s words, when he was shocked to see Mr. Bennet sitting at a small table nearby. If the older gentleman was equally shocked to find a tall gentleman from Derbyshire glancing nervously at a certain shelf, he disguised the sentiment admirably.
“Mr. Darcy, sir, I must say I am surprised to see you here this morning, but not nearly as surprised as you appear to be at seeing me.”
Mr. Darcy’s shock grew ten-fold as he noticed the familiar title of the book placed on the table before Elizabeth’s father.
“Mr. Bennet.” Mr. Darcy greeted cautiously.
Seeing the younger gentleman’s distress, Mr. Bennet teased, “You may have guessed that I have some rather interesting business here this morning, which is rather closely related to your reason for coming here. Would you care to take a seat, sir?”
“With all due respect, sir, I would prefer to speak with you in a more private setting.”
“Come, come, Mr. Darcy. I would not be here this morning if it were not for Mr. Awdry informing me of the odd popularity of his shop with a certain member of my family. I assure you he only spoke to me of the person under my care, but if you have come just as often, he would not need much imagination to connect the two. Given the early hour, and the manner in which he left for the back room the moment you arrived, I believe this shall be private enough.”
Mr. Darcy nodded as he sat down. He knew any father would insist he marry their daughter under the circumstances, and a part of him rejoiced in it. He thought surprise would never end as Mr. Bennet expressed his opinion on the subject.
“Now before we discuss the matter at hand, I would know if I assume correctly that you are knowledgeable as to the identity of the young lady with whom you have been communicating?”
“I am, sir.”
Mr. Bennet nodded his concurrence and began, “I will explain the situation from my perspective. I find it quite comical that while my daughter thought she might be sporting with one of the Lucas boys, she was in fact teasing a rather serious man in possession of a great estate. That you would continue in this farce was more difficult to reconcile, but I have had some time to think on the matter. I have not been blind to your interest in my favorite daughter, and I commend your taste in appreciating her disposition, but I also have seen your reserve and realize you must believe in some nonsense that you are duty bound to make a great match.”
Affronted by the older man’s light-hearted banter and mockery of himself, Mr. Darcy’s composure faltered and he blurt out much harsher than he intended, “How long have you known?”
“Long enough, sir. I wonder at your ability to keep up this correspondence over the past month when to my understanding you were far from Hertfordshire, but curious though I may be, that is quite beside the point. As I said, I have known long enough, and I believe that you have a decision to make.”
“I have already come to a decision, sir, and I would understand if you were to demand that I accompany you to Longbourn.”
Mr. Bennet cleared his throat and fought to restrain a smile. He was pleasantly surprised that this serious young gentleman was finally willing to admit himself lost to Elizabeth. “I am sure you have something more romantic in mind than my exposing your improprieties and forcing you to marry. I doubt my Lizzy would take kindly to a obligatory offer of marriage in the aftermath of her suitor being called onto the carpet by her father. All I ask at present is that you continue to treat my daughter with the utmost respect. I would suggest that you resolve this in a timely manner; however I also strongly suggest that you proceed with caution. As you know, your friend is marrying my eldest daughter, and you may often find yourself in company with Elizabeth in the future, no matter the outcome of this correspondence.”
Mr. Darcy declined to comment, as he considered himself quite knowledgeable of the outcome, and cared little for the older gentleman’s teasing. Mr. Bennet rose, leaving Mr. Darcy and Sterne’s book at the table, and bid Mr. Awdry farewell. Once he heard Mr. Bennet pass through the door, Mr. Darcy slowly reached for the book in front of him. He removed Elizabeth’s note, and without opening it, pulled a folded sheet from his pocket and replaced her note with his own, his intentions the same as they had been before seeing Mr. Bennet.
Upon leaving the shop, Mr. Bennet felt some concern regarding his daughter’s reaction. After all, he had long been conscious of Mr. Darcy’s interest, where his daughter had not, and he had never shared Elizabeth’s violent distaste for the gentleman. However having heard excerpts from the letters Elizabeth received, and having observed her delight in their exchanges, he was confident that all would be well once Mr. Darcy revealed himself, though perhaps a good deal of explanation would be required. Elizabeth had made her dislike clear enough, and Mr. Darcy must have devised a plan to overcome it.
Chapter 14
Posted on Tuesday, 17 June 2008
After leaving the bookshop, Mr. Darcy was so focused on imagining Elizabeth’s reaction to his most recent note that he all but forgot his anticipation towards reading her own. Recollecting its place in his pocket, he reached for the note and read the following.
I must bow to your superior dedication and reverence towards literature, as I will now reveal, much to the detriment of the studious reputation I may have established with you, that I have often read solely for my own entertainment, and though many novels lack sophistication or profound lessons to be learned, I have found them excessively diverting.
Mr. Darcy chuckled to himself, as her response embodied all the playfulness he had come to depend on. Excessively diverting indeed, and he was very much looking forward a time when she would daily invade his serious life with more of such diversion.
Elizabeth left Longbourn before the rest of the house had risen and once again journeyed to the village to retrieve the expected missive. On her way back to Longbourn, she sat upon a fallen log, and anxiously opened the note, gasping at its contents.
You must know how I have enjoyed our exchanges, and I find I would enjoy conversing with you through more than just paper. Would I be too bold to request meeting with you this coming Saturday? There is a very fine tree where the road from Meryton meets the lane to Lucas Lodge, and if it is agreeable to you I will be waiting at the hour of three.February 8, 18__
Elizabeth rose and turned off to one of her favorite paths in the opposite direction of Longbourn. After overcoming her initial shock, she was a bit disappointed to have been unable to discover his identity before he chose to reveal it, thus giving him greater advantage upon their meeting. Yet she would finally learn the truth, and might be allowed an open friendship, which would be quite welcome given the small size of her community. She smiled mischievously with anticipation. So, after all these months, he is finally ready to reveal himself. The day after Jane’s wedding of all times!
Though he had no reason to feel nervous, as he was positive she would be amenable to their meeting, Mr. Darcy admitted he had been distracted since leaving the bookshop two days prior. After his confrontation with Mr. Bennet, he knew there was a reasonable possibility that she was already aware of his identity. He thought it a bit odd that Mr. Bennet would request he continue this odd form of courtship, yet he was willing to make this small concession if it would please his future wife. After all, he had chosen her for her liveliness and her wit, so it would be fitting for her to have an interesting tale for their future children.
I am all anticipation of the opportunity to put a face to my most diligent correspondent, and look forward to making your proper acquaintance.
He was pleased by her eagerness in meeting, and rode back to Netherfield, where he would have to put his future aside for a day as he prepared to stand up with Bingley.
The wedding of Charles Bingley and Jane Bennet fulfilled every expectation of those in attendance. The Longbourn church had been meticulously decorated with the season’s finest, and several blooms gave evidence of Mrs. Bennet’s access to the greenhouse at Netherfield Park. As the wedding party gathered at the altar in anticipation of the bride, two persons studiously avoided each other’s gaze. Mr. Darcy refused to show any undue attention under the scrutiny of all in attendance, while Elizabeth refused to allow such a taciturn and sour man take away from the happiest day in her beloved sister’s life. The ceremony transpired in much the same way as all wedding ceremonies do, and soon the bride and groom were greeting guests and accepting congratulations outside the church. For a fleeting moment, Elizabeth believed she may have seen a smile gracing Mr. Darcy’s lips, but on second glance, it had disappeared.
Before long, all in attendance reconvened at Netherfield Park, decorated in extravagance equal to the church, with the addition of fine food and talented musicians.
After welcoming all of the guests to his home, Mr. Bingley led his new wife to lead the first dance. Knowing it to be expected of him to follow suit with the maid of honor, Mr. Darcy approached Elizabeth. With a small upturn of his lips that would not constitute a smile in the face of a more amiable man, he held out his hand towards her.
“Shall we?” he said more in form of a statement than a request.
Having prepared herself for such an inevitable event, Elizabeth placed her hand in his and allowed him to lead her across the ballroom floor. Elizabeth had no desire to initiate conversation during their dance, as she much preferred to observe her sister. Thus Mr. Darcy was left perfectly content to dance in silence, beholding the woman in front of him, memorizing every aspect of her appearance. Elizabeth tried to avoid his unreadable gaze and sighed, thinking she had endured far too many dances with this man, but at least this was the last occasion on which they would be obliged to dance together for some time.
After parting with Mr. Darcy at the end of their dance, Elizabeth relished in the joyful celebration of her sister’s union. Even her mother’s effusions were tolerable, as most of the company shared similar opinions regarding the blissful couple. So it was that Elizabeth was laughing delightedly with Charlotte Lucas, and did not notice a certain gentleman’s approach until his voice could be heard beside her.
“Miss Bennet, if you are not otherwise engaged, I believe we would enjoy dancing the last together.”
Equally surprised by his appearance as his request, Elizabeth stumbled in her reply. At her strange look, Mr. Darcy, confused by her hesitation, added, “Forgive me, is the set already taken?”
“It is not, sir.” Elizabeth answered, regaining a semblance of her composure.
Mr. Darcy nodded, presuming her acceptance. “Then I shall return to collect you at the proper time.”
Mr. Darcy gave a small bow and retreated from her company as quickly as he had entered it. Elizabeth stared after his withdrawing figure in frustration. Endeavoring to control her anger over his presumption, she linked her arm to Charlotte’s and moved to leave the incident behind her and allow herself to enjoy the remainder of the celebration. Her ire could not be suppressed as Darcy approaching for the last set, for her disappointment was twofold; soon her dear Jane would depart, and she would spend the last minutes of her sister’s presence in company with Mr. Darcy.
As the first steps of their dance passed in a manner identical to their previous set, Elizabeth could not refrain from commenting, “Though I was courteous enough to allow one dance in silence, I believe I have previously stated my opinion that it is best if we have some conversation, Mr. Darcy.”
“Indeed Miss Bennet, and as I have previously stated that by no means would I suspend any pleasure of yours, I should not hesitate to oblige you, though as the topic of books has previously been disallowed, I will solicit your opinion for a more acceptable subject.”
“A simpler task I could not imagine, as the room is abuzz with discussion of the happy couple.”
“As it should be, in light of the day’s events.”
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth continued their dance in conversation that was interpreted as amiable by one, and civil by the other. Soon after, a crowd of well-wishers covered the front steps of Netherfield Park, as Mr. Bingley handed his bride into a carriage bound for their townhouse in London.
Chapter 15
Elizabeth allowed herself the luxury of sleeping late the morning following her sister’s wedding to Mr. Bingley, knowing a late start would only decrease the number of hours spent in anxiety over her plans for the afternoon. After luncheon, Elizabeth’s anticipation grew such that she did not trust herself to keep her countenance under her father’s watchful eye. She decided to call on Charlotte Lucas and profess her intention to make frequent calls at Lucas Lodge, as surely she could not spend too many hours at Longbourn without the inducement of her sister’s company.
At half past two, Mr. Darcy rode towards the location he had specified to Elizabeth, his pulse racing as he crested the last hill and spotted her coming up the lane from Lucas Lodge. He slowed his horse such that she reached the road from Meryton just as he approached a certain tree.
Observing the approaching horse and rider, Elizabeth could not believe her ill luck at having Mr. Darcy of all people disrupt such a momentous occasion. He could not have chosen a worse time to be riding into Meryton, and as many wedding guests had already departed for London, she sincerely wished he had not been in the neighborhood at all. Her agitation grew as she perceived that he did not intend to acknowledge her and continue on his course, but was at that very moment dismounting his horse and walking in her direction. Rather than dwelling on discerning his motives for such uncharacteristic actions, she determined to be rid of him as quickly as possible.
“Mr. Darcy!”
“Miss Bennet.”
The gentleman tethered his horse to a certain tree over which she felt rather possessive, though it was by no means her own, and began to approach her.
“I am surprised you have yet to quit our unsightly neighborhood, now that the wedding has passed and you are not obligated to stay. I am sure Miss Bingley is pleased to have such a devoted guest.”
Taken aback by her incivility, Mr. Darcy stopped his progress and answered with a hint of disconcertion in his voice, “I expected to be invited to Longbourn this evening, though I admit I am looking forward to being elsewhere.”
“Yes, I suppose there is very little to be considered worthwhile in this provincial quarter. I wonder that you would expect such hospitality when you have accepted it so begrudgingly in the past, but it comes as no surprise to me that you are anxious to be away.”
Mr. Darcy met her eyes before replying in a serious tone, “Forgive me if my natural reserve has led you to mistake my reticence in company for rudeness. Your comments at the Netherfield ball led me to believe you understood my disinclination for speaking elaborately in the performance of mundane civilities.”
Mr. Darcy’s anger began to swell as he observed that rather than being softened by his confession, Elizabeth’s countenance showed mounting irritation.
“I have apologized for my aloof behavior, Miss Bennet.” Mr. Darcy asserted brusquely, “Does that not mollify you?”
“Mollify me? You apologize for the actions, but say nothing of the sentiments behind them. Your pride and arrogance have been displayed with hauteur from your first days in Hertfordshire. You have evidenced your opinion even further by returning with your sister only to shield her from our influence. Even as you apologize for displaying it, your distaste for our country manners is quite clear.”
“You are undoubtedly cognizant of the improprieties so frequently exhibited amongst your current acquaintance, but I wonder at your concern over the matter, as you will leave this society once you marry, and need feel no remorse.” A hint of bewilderment crept into his voice as Mr. Darcy struggled to understand how their conversation had turned into such a heated argument. He had not given much thought to what she might say, as he had planned to communicate his desires immediately once they had acknowledged each other, but he certainly had not expected this.
“I do not see how quitting the neighborhood indicates by default that I will no longer care for my friends and neighbors.”
Mr. Darcy smiled a little at this evidence of her goodness. “No, I suppose you would not, and it does you credit, but surely you realize the importance of establishing yourself in your current sphere, rather than focusing on the one you have left behind, as your sister must do in London. Though she may never be a predominate figure in society, I believe your sister will be accepted tolerably well. I am sure she is glad to be moving up in importance.”
“I doubt very much that my sister will aspire towards a position in society reserved for persons such as yourself, she is too kind and humble. She may never be remembered or spoken of in London, but they speak very well of her here. She is renowned for her caring and amiable nature, and there are many in this community who love her for her good deeds, and will continue to love her, no matter how grand she becomes as mistress of Netherfield, because they know she will not forsake them. You on the other hand, may reach the highest rung of our social strata, only to be known for the monetary value of your estate and the lineage of your parents. Your manners, or lack there-of, are rendered insignificant, and you will be nothing but a cold portrait hanging in an extravagant gallery full of men long forgotten in everything but terms of their consequence.”
For a long moment, Mr. Darcy stood silent, staring at Elizabeth in what she saw to be much the same disapproving manner he had frequently employed, unaware of the rapid movement of his thoughts as he deduced the reason behind her continued incivility. Good god, she hates me with such ferocity that she does not realize I am the gentleman she came to meet with today. She does not even consider it possible that I could have penned the notes.
Finally, he broke the silence, speaking in a low voice so opposite of his usually commandeering manner, that she almost thought him impacted by the harshness of her words. “Excuse me, madam. You make it quite clear that you have long desired my absence, and I must return to my sister.”
His countenance a rigid facade, Mr. Darcy turned from her and walked determinedly towards his horse, tipping his hat curtly as he urged the stallion into a canter with a flick of his heels. Once certain he was out of her view, he turned his horse off of the road and galloped across the fields. Even if he had been ready to love her despite his old objections, it was meaningless if she did not return his affections. Mr. Darcy rode back to Netherfield, and informed Georgiana that they would leave Netherfield at first light. Leaving his sister to summon her maid and make the necessary preparations, he retired to his room to write a letter, as he had realized its necessity after he and Elizabeth parted company.
Soon after a lone rider could be seen traveling in the fading light of the afternoon, retracing his path after making an important deposit in Mr. Awdry’s bookshop.
This scene could have been observed by Elizabeth had she been any closer to the village than she had been earlier that afternoon. As it was, she was oblivious to the rider, but noticed that the sun was beginning to set, and realized that if she did not return home now, the sky would be as dark as her hopes of meeting her mysterious friend.
Chapter 16
Posted on Saturday, 21 June 2008
Elizabeth returned to the house just before dinner and retired soon after, claiming fatigue from her afternoon walk. Her father had hoped to speak with her regarding a matter of some importance, but reasoned that the following day she would venture into Meryton, and he might waylay her in order to provide his daughter with more assistance than simply an excuse for going into town.
As Elizabeth headed towards the front door the next morning, Mr. Bennet observed that her agitation from the previous evening did not seem to have diminished overnight, and called her into the library.
“I was about request that you save your papa from making a trip into the village, but judging by your countenance, I will delay my request in favor of a more pressing matter.” Mr. Bennet dropped his teasing smile and light-hearted tone of voice, “I hope there is nothing troubling you Lizzy?”
“No papa, I believe I am just feeling weary in the aftermath of the wedding. Now that the busyness and excitement have passed, I realize how much I shall miss Jane.”
“Never fear Lizzy, you sister shall be a scant three miles away, and I think you shall have plenty of opportunities to see her, as I have it on good authority that your mother plans to visit quite regularly once the Bingleys return from the coast.”
Both laughed congenially as they envisioned the mistress of the house scurrying to her carriage to socialize with her neighbors in the finest house of the neighborhood, now her own daughter’s home. Neither needed an opportunity to witness the scene to know with certainty how Mrs. Bennet would revel in expounding her good fortune, holding court at Netherfield just as she did in her own home.
“I am sure you are right, Papa.” Elizabeth said gaily as her mirth began to subside. “The house just seems so quiet now that all the hustle and bustle is over, and somehow I do not believe life at Longbourn shall be quite the same.”
Mr. Bennet thought carefully of how to phrase his response. “Yes, but things are not always as we are wont to believe them to be. If I am not mistaken, you have found an amiable companion in Miss Darcy these last weeks, though by the testimony of a certain gentleman, you might have expected to find her disposition to be quite the opposite.”
“I admit she was not at all proud, and I did enjoy making her acquaintance, but I do not see how it shall be continued.”
Mr. Bennet looked at his daughter inquisitively, wondering at the melancholy air behind her statement. “I would imagine you will renew your acquaintance from time to time with your mutual connection to the Bingleys. Did you not invite her to correspond with you in the meantime?”
“I doubt her brother would allow his sister to correspond with a young lady such as myself.” Elizabeth looked down at her hands. My unladylike speech yesterday certainly saw to that, though I stood little chance of meeting his approval beforehand.
Now that the conversation had reached Mr. Bennet’s intended juncture, he endeavored to carry a point he did not expect his daughter to take easily. “I would be wary of holding that opinion, my Lizzy, as I believe your dislike of Mr. Darcy was largely fueled by a gentleman whose information we have just deemed unreliable.”
Elizabeth let out a frustrated huff. “While I cannot reconcile the impression of Miss Darcy professed by Mr. Wickham to my own experience with the same young lady, I do not see that as cause to completely disavow everything he has spoken of Mr. Darcy. There was truth in his looks, and I cannot believe such an intricate past to have been fabricated.”
“Sometimes the most believable lies are those which are interwoven with bits of truth, Lizzy. A particular example comes to mind of a young girl, quite to your resemblance, who ran into this very home with hot tears and a dirty frock, proclaiming the injustice of having been pushed into the mud by one of the young boys in the neighborhood. While this event did occur, the truth of it was quite misconstrued, given the omission that she had first led him down a bank on some pretense or another, only to push him into the lake, and that the offense over which she had been so vocal was committed as a retaliatory measure.”
A rather sheepish Elizabeth chuckled lightly with her father, remembering the incident quite clearly, and beginning to suspect her father’s objective in regaling her with the childhood memory.
“If that boy’s father and I had not related to each other the dissimilar explanations we each heard from our children, I doubt we would ever have learned the right of it. I believe you know who might be able to relate Wickham’s story from another point of view, and I suggest you not pass final judgment or assume the two versions to be identical without hearing both of them.”
Elizabeth sighed, “Mr. Wickham’s accusations aside, there has still been plenty of evidence laid by Mr. Darcy himself towards his true nature.”
“Yes Lizzy, but understand that Mr. Wickham led you to view Mr. Darcy’s actions through a very cynical eye. I would not be so determined against the possibility that had he not insulted you to the offense of your vanity, you might have seen him in a different light.”
“Perhaps you are right, Papa, but if you will excuse me, at the moment I prefer to lighten my mood by enjoying the fresh air.”
“Very well, child.” Mr. Bennet smiled, “Just be sure not to disappear until dusk, as lord knows what I will suffer at the hands of your mother’s nerves if you are missed.”
Though she truly did wish to lose herself in the joys of nature, dwelling on her father’s words and the previous day’s events seemed to be inevitable. Her father had been correct with regard to Miss Darcy, and though aloud she had protested, within she began to question her assessment of Mr. Darcy. She could not but regret the harshness of the words she had spoken to him, no matter how strongly she had felt the truth of them. He had obviously been stunned that she would dare to speak to him in such a way, yet when in the last of her tirade she spoke of his lack of personal significance, he had clearly been pained by her words, a feeling which she did not feel justified to inflict on anyone. Paltry though it was, the only excuse she could give for her wretched behavior was that she had allowed his words to infuriate her beyond reason and spoken unthinkingly while blinded by her fury. Not for the first time did she wonder if the expected gentleman had witnessed the scene of her long argument with Mr. Darcy, and been dissuaded from approaching her. She was loathe to acknowledge that during their heated discourse, she had paid little attention to her surroundings. Having nearly reached Meryton by this time, she resolved not to think on the matter any further until she had explored the possibility of finding a note to explain his absence the previous day.
February 15, 18__I know you must be gravely disappointed by the circumstances of this afternoon, as I am sure its passing was not to your liking. Please allow me to sincerely apologize that I was unable to provide you the pleasant company we had anticipated. I regret to inform you that urgent business calls me away for the next fortnight, but please accept my assurances that our correspondence does not mean so little to me that I would wish to end it, and that a note will await you on the third of March.
His words seemed sincere and apologetic, and though still disappointed, Elizabeth tried to be placated by them. The extreme highs and lows of the previous two days had left her emotionally drained. She decided to take at least some portion of her father’s advice regarding hasty judgments and, difficult as it may be, bide her time until the anticipated date before forming a set opinion.
Little did her father know that as he had been advising her rethink her opinion of Mr. Darcy, the gentleman in question was on the road to Pemberley, planning a course of action not entirely dissimilar from that which was practiced after his departure following the Yuletide Ball. In the following days, it became common knowledge that the Darcys had indeed left the neighborhood. Mr. Bennet knew not whether to wish he had dragged Mr. Darcy to Longbourn like an errant child, or be glad that his favorite daughter would no longer be imposed upon by such a man.
Chapter 17
Mr. and Miss Darcy left Hertfordshire in what the latter may have considered undue haste, but she accepted her brother’s reasoning that he was anxious to return to Pemberley. Even if she suspected this not to be his true motivation, escaping the roof under which Miss Bingley resided seemed incentive enough. What Georgiana dared not consider was to enquire as to the reason behind her brother’s dark mood. While he did not exude the fury she had witnessed the previous summer, he was certainly despondent and rather pensive. After a week spent at Pemberley, Mr. Darcy announced that business called him to London. He suggested that as she had remained in London through the holiday season, Georgiana was welcome to stay at Pemberley in company with Mrs. Annesley and continue her studies there.
As the last days of February came to pass, the pensive state which had entranced Mr. Darcy finally bore fruit. Though he had initially been dumbfounded by Elizabeth’s hostility, review of their interactions, along with remembrances of a few comments from Bingley, forced him to admit that he had left much to be desired. Though he now claimed to have overcome them, he had previously displayed his objections abominably. He could not deny the vast discrepancy between the gentleman he had been on paper and the man he had been in her presence, and understood her inability to make the connection. He called Thompson to his study with instructions that he would depart for Hertfordshire the next morning on an errand much the same as those he had completed several times before.
The days had not passed quickly for Elizabeth, but at long last the third of March arrived. She had not dared discuss her planned meeting with her father, and therefore had not shared the contents of her last note with him either. She had expected some form of questioning from him when she did not mention her notes or require his excuses for venturing into town, but simply accepted his apathetic approach gratefully. She had left the house under the pretense of a walk, her expressed desire to rediscover her favorite haunts in the gradually warming weather leaving none the wiser.
March 2, 18__These weeks I have thought of little else but what your feelings must be regarding the events of that fateful day, and I cannot look upon my behavior without abhorrence. You had placed your trust in me only to be bitterly disappointed, and I fear apologies cannot acquit me of the injustices I have committed against you. All I request is that while I do not deserve such kindness, you would allow us to begin again and that I may show you the error of my ways has been attended.
Elizabeth’s reluctance to form an opinion before reading this missive had dissipated much of the vexation she had felt after their missed meeting. The guilt weighing on her mind over her treatment of Mr. Darcy made it difficult for her to condemn the actions of anyone but herself from that afternoon. She thought it most fitting to clear his conscience with a confession of her own.
Elizabeth spirits were much improved by the words she had chosen to commit to paper, and could not but be heightened further by the Bingleys’ return from their wedding trip. Her mother was quick to make good on her commitment to visit her married daughter frequently, as it would be quite some time before a single day would pass without Mrs. Bennet and her daughters calling at Netherfield Park. The Bingley’s had travelled an easy distance to the coast of Essex, and thankfully the journey had not been too exhausting for Jane to answer many questions from her mother and sisters about the fashions she had seen and what fine accommodations they must have had. Though Elizabeth had scarce been given the opportunity to utter a word to her sister, Mrs. Bennet soon announced their departure. It was with great pleasure over her resourcefulness that Elizabeth managed to excuse herself from accompanying her mother, that she might enjoy more of her sister’s company.
Without the overshadowing presence of Mrs. Bennet, conversation flowed more freely between the three who remained. Not wishing to address the topic so thoroughly exhausted by the recently departed guests, and equally desirous of allowing Jane a respite from conversation, Elizabeth turned to the gentleman in the room. With a jovial smile to belie any impression of ill-will, she asked after the current state of his library and teasingly commenting on his good fortune in that if Jane were desirous of a larger collection, she would be too kind to begrudge him. It was then a broad smiling Mr. Bingley who announced he had something to show Elizabeth that would equally shock and please her, and left the room with a mischievous grin and the two ladies in his wake.
Throwing open a pair of heavy wooden doors, Mr. Bingley stepped aside and with his arm gestured for Jane and Elizabeth to precede him into the room. “May I present the new and improved library of Netherfield Park. Though it shall never compare to that of Longbourn, I hope dear sister you now find it more respectable, and will be able to lose yourself in its contents for many an afternoon.”
Noting the substantial increase of books occupying the shelves, Elizabeth turned to her new brother with a great smile before moving to peruse the added selections. “Mr. Bingley I commend you for your great improvements, and you may one day rue the invitation as I will take up your offer to occupy this room quite frequently.”
“I doubt Jane would wish you to do any less, and therefore neither would I. But I cannot take credit that is not due me, and must inform you that it was Mr. Darcy who expanded my collection so.”
“How very kind of him.” Such simple words Elizabeth would never have imagined speaking in reference to that particular gentleman, and she paused momentarily before adding, “I suppose I should not be surprised, as we all know Mr. Darcy is rather fond of books.”
“Yes, I daresay he may not have survived were there not a bookshop established in Meryton to save him from my meager collection! Though I believe he sent to London for many of the titles as well, and Georgiana was kind enough to send a few of his favorites from their townhouse.”
At the Darcy’s home in London, the master of the house attempted to plan the solution for a tenant issue, pacing agitatedly as he fought against his distracted state of mind. He had been anticipating Thompson’s return all morning, and had been able to keep his mind on little else. At long last, heavy footsteps could be heard approaching the study, and the long awaited man passed through the door. The dusty and ragged appearance of Mr. Darcy’s trusted servant was excused as the heaving of his chest gave evidence to the direct route he had taken to his master. Accepting the expected packet, Mr. Darcy thanked him and suggested that he see the kitchen staff for a cold refreshment and hearty meal in appreciation of his efforts. As the awaiting footman followed Mr. Thompson through the doorway and closed the door, Mr. Darcy immediately removed the expected letter and read the following.
I admit I had looked forward to the chance to meet with you, but any disappointment was overshadowed by an unpleasant scene that occurred recently. Though I have often written to you in light-hearted and sarcastic tones, please be assured of my seriousness when I relate that I am equally guilty of greatly mistreating an acquaintance. While at the time I believed myself to be speaking words that were truly deserved, I now see my statements as scathing remarks spoken in false indignation.It is in our making of amends that we can find relief from our feelings of regret. Therefore please consider yourself forgiven, as I do not share your opinion that such kindness is undeserved, and let us move on to subjects more pleasurable to both parties.
Her feelings of guilt regarding their confrontation were palpable as he read her note, and Mr. Darcy was relieved to be given a means to defend her actions in hope of alleviating her remorse. After writing his response, he reflected again on her words, and could not but feel a glimmer of hope that as she had written to forgive her correspondent, she might be amenable to reforming her opinion of him as well. He rang for Thompson and bade him to return to Hertfordshire the following day, supplying him with the sealed missive.
His own conscience had not been completely cleared however, another issue being brought to light as her words rang through his head, emphasizing the importance of making amends. He took up the long delayed task of writing to his friend Andrew Beaumont, offering his deepest congratulations on their marriage, arrival of their first child, and a sincere request that the friendship begin anew.
Mr. and Mrs. Bingley’s return to Hertfordshire brought the beginning of many dinner parties between Longbourn and Netherfield. A few days after their return, all were gathered to dine at Netherfield, when Mr. Bingley excitedly approached his wife and favorite sister in law.
“Elizabeth, we have some news for you which I hope you shall approve. I may have mentioned an old school friend of mine, Andrew Beaumont. He was unable to attend the wedding, as he and his wife were recently blessed with their first child, but as he resides in Essex, Jane and I,” here Mr. Bingley paused and smiled at Jane. Elizabeth had long observed that he could not speak his wife’s name without gazing in her direction, and found it endearing that the habit had not been dissolved in the comfort of their marriage. Mr. Bingley continued, “We were able to visit the Beaumonts before returning to Hertfordshire, and they invited us to return for an extended visit as soon as we are able.”
“Would you enjoy taking a holiday with us, Lizzy?” Jane asked her sister cheerfully.
“Indeed I would Jane, but I would not wish to be invading your privacy and would take no offense should you and Mr. Bingley prefer to travel alone.”
At this moment, Mrs. Bennet interrupted and inquired as to the subject of their discourse, to which Mr. Bingley responded cautiously.
“We are speaking with Miss Elizabeth about our planning a return visit to the Beaumonts, ma’am, who reside in Essex. We occasioned to dine at their estate near Hadleigh during our wedding trip, and were invited to return for a lengthier visit. As Mrs. Beaumont would enjoy the female companionship, Andrew suggested they would have room to host one of Mrs. Bingley’s sisters as well. I was just in the process of persuading Elizabeth to join us.”
“Oh, but why should Lizzy go!” Mrs. Bennet exclaimed, “She has no need of exposure in society when she already secured Mr. Collins. You would do much better to take Lydia, she would surely make a merry companion for you all.”
With all the expertise of two and twenty years’ practice, Jane answered her mother in a placating tone, “While I am sure Lydia would be an amiable companion, and Mrs. Beaumont spoke of her hope to one day make all of your acquaintance, she did express that perhaps Lizzy might join us. I believe it would only be fitting to comply with her wishes, as she will be welcoming us into her home.”
“Well there you have it, Mrs. Bennet. It would seem our Lizzy is for Essex.” Mr. Bennet stated, considering the subject closed, “Bingley, do tell us more about your friend, and when you intend to travel to Hadleigh.”