| Colonel Fitzwilliam Lends a Hand |
| Fitzwilliam Darcy checked his appearance one last time before running out to meet his cousin at the carriage. "Come on, come on! Get that trunk in the damn carriage!" he yelled to the footman. "I wish to get on the road as soon as possible!" "I say, Darcy, you seem exceedingly eager to visit Aunt Catherine this year!" exclaimed Colonel Fitzwilliam as he boarded the Darcy carriage. "Could it be that your attachment to Rosings increases as she would wish it to?" he teased. Darcy rolled his eyes. "If by that you mean that I am eager to see Anne, you could not be more wrong. I have no intention of marrying our cousin, now or ever. You know that Fitzwilliam." The colonel chuckled. "Yes, yes, I know. But then why are you in such a hurry to go? I usually have to drag you out the door of your townhouse." "Well�I have been informed that we can expect much�livelier company than what we are accustomed to at Rosings." He stopped and blushed slightly. Fitzwilliam raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And are you going to tell me about this lively company?" "Collins, the parson, is lately married to a lady named Charlotte Lucas. She is from Hertfordshire, and, according to Aunt Catherine, currently has visitors staying at Hunsford. One of them is her sister, and the other is her friend, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I met her, er, them when I was at Netherfield with Bingley. Miss Bennet has a very sharp wit and lively mind. I think you will like her very much." By this time Darcy was blushing furiously, a fact that did not go unnoticed by Colonel Fitzwilliam. "Well, that will make a welcome change from our usual society at Rosings. Tell me more about Miss Bennet." Darcy smiled as the carriage began the trip to Kent. "Ah, Richard� Miss Bennet is a very unique woman. She is intelligent, talented, she plays and sings delightfully. I am sure she is one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance. She has very fine eyes that sparkle when she smiles. Her sister fell ill when visiting Netherfield, so Elizabeth� er, Miss Bennet came to care for her, and walked three miles by herself in the mud to get there." He smiled at the memory. "She is a very independent young lady. And beautiful. Did I mention that? And very witty; defeated me numerous times in battles of wit, let me tell you! The most interesting woman I have ever encountered." He smiled again and leaned back in his seat. "Well, I think I am going to rest a bit to fortify myself for Aunt Catherine." He closed his eyes and indulged himself in reliving his favorite Elizabeth moments. Colonel Fitzwilliam observed his cousin closely. I have never seen him so affected by anything, especially not a woman! I shall be very interested to meet this Miss Bennet! he thought before also closing his eyes. Upon reaching Rosings, the gentlemen greeted their Aunt with as much false affection as they could by nature show. Colonel Fitzwilliam was much more successful, being naturally more affable; Darcy seemed to be in a hurry to be out of Rosings already. "My dear nephews, I am very pleased to see you! Unfortunately, dear Anne was feeling very weak this morning, and keeps to her room. Perhaps after dinner you can see her." As was her wont, she babbled on and on about her affairs and the affairs of her neighbors, only obtaining their attentions when she began to talk of the inhabitants of the parsonage. "And Mrs. Collins' friend seems to be a pretty, genteel sort of girl, but as soon as she opened her mouth I discovered her to be insufferable. She is impertinent, arrogant, above her station� I fear she is a bad influence for Anne, and encourage Mrs. Jenkinson to keep the dear girl away from this country nobody as often as possible. I am sure you will not like her much, so I probably will not invite them to Rosings while you are here." Darcy frowned at her. "Surely you would not be so unkind Aunt Catherine. Such people need your great condescension to show them the proper way. Perhaps if you keep her near to you during her visit here, you will be able to improve her. After all, you have done such an excellent job making Anne the, er, delightful young lady that she is." Lady Catherine smiled smugly at the compliment to herself and her daughter. "Well, I suppose I could grant her that kindness. There are few people in England, I suppose, with a greater capacity for helping others than myself. And it certainly couldn't make her any worse!" Darcy bowed his approval, the grin on his face hidden by the action. "Darcy, perhaps we should visit the parsonage once we have settled our things. I have not met any of the new inhabitants," suggested Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy approved of this arrangement, and hurried to prepare himself. Half an hour later the gentlemen were knocking on the door of the parsonage. Upon entering the parlor, Colonel Fitzwilliam's eyes were drawn to a beautiful young woman of about twenty years, with dark hair and sparkling eyes. This must be the famous Miss Bennet. I cannot blame you Darcy, she is a beauty! Introductions were made, and the colonel immediately fell into friendly conversation with Elizabeth. "I am happy to make your acquaintance at last, Miss Bennet." She eyed him quizzically. "At last, sir?" "Oh yes, I have heard much of you, and none of the praise has been exaggerated, I assure you." "I can well believe that, Mr. Darcy is my severest critic." Is she serious? I doubt he could name a single defect in this woman! This must be her famous wit. They chatted amiably about lively conversation and Lady Catherine, when suddenly Elizabeth asked, "Can you tell me why Mr. Darcy keeps staring at me? What do you suppose offends him?" As the colonel turned to look, Darcy rose, completely ignoring Mr. Collins, who had been talking for a full five minutes. "I hope your family is in good health," Darcy said blandly. "Yes, I thank you." He did not reply, but only stared at her. Elizabeth paused, then looked at him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "My sister has been in town these three months. Have you never happened to see her?" Darcy was visibly discomfited at this. "No. No, I have not had that pleasure," he replied, and took a position by the window. Fitzwilliam recognized Darcy's defense mechanism and wondered at the significance of the last exchange. "You see, Mr. Darcy and I are not the best of friends." Fitzwilliam could not hide his surprise. "Indeed, I am surprised to hear it." Again she looked confused. "Why should you be? I always believe in first impressions, and his good opinion, once lost, is lost forever." She looked towards the man at the window, who raised an eyebrow at the comment, and smiled. "So you see it is a hopeless case, is it not, Colonel Fitzwilliam?" He only chuckled, unsure if she was serious. The more he talked with Elizabeth, the more confused he became. At times it seemed she was practically insulting Darcy, but she said things with such sweet archness that it was impossible for her to affront him. Most of the time he could not determine if she meant her words or was just teasing. Darcy certainly enjoyed her playful manner, so perhaps this was her way of being flirtatious. When they left, however, he felt there was a certain tension in Elizabeth's manner around Darcy, and was curious to discover what she truly thought of his cousin. A few days later, Rosings Park Colonel Fitzwilliam sat next to Elizabeth as she played the pianoforte. He could not deny that her playing was not technically brilliant, but she was delightful to observe. He leaned back in his chair, smiling. Indeed, Darcy, I cannot blame you at all. She is a bewitching creature! She finished the piece, but before anyone could applaud, Lady Catherine spoke. "You will never play really well, Miss Bennet, unless you practice more. You may come to Rosings whenever you like and play on the pianoforte in Mrs. Jenkinson's room. She will be in no one's way in that part of the house." Elizabeth stifled a laugh. "Thank you ma'am," she replied. Lady Catherine continued to talk, but Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam were no longer listening. "I apologize for my Aunt, Miss Bennet. She is not exactly the most tactful person who has ever lived." "Not to worry Colonel. I am perfectly able to handle the frankness of your Aunt." "Frankness? That is a kind way of putting it! Very diplomatic." He grinned at her as Darcy strode into the room. Elizabeth looked up at him. "Do you mean to frighten me by coming in all this state to hear me Mr. Darcy? But I will not be alarmed. My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me." He smirked at her. "I know you take great enjoyment in expressing opinions which are not your own." She pretended to be offended. "Your cousin would not have you believe a word I say, Colonel Fitzwilliam. That is ungenerous, is it not?" Fitzwilliam laughed. "It is indeed Darcy!" "Impolitic too, for it provokes me to retaliate, and say something of his behavior in Hertfordshire which may shock his relations." Still Darcy smiled. "I am not afraid of you," he replied. "What do you have to accuse him of? I should dearly like to know how he behaves amongst strangers," Fitzwilliam asked, hopeful to gain some insight into Miss Bennet's view of his cousin. "The first time I ever saw Mr. Darcy was at a ball, where he danced only four dances, though gentlemen were scarce and more than one lady was in want of a partner." She looked at Darcy pointedly, and he looked away uncomfortably at this last comment. "I am sorry to pain you, but so it was." Fitzwilliam got the feeling that she did not think of this incident as lightly as she spoke of it, and jumped to his cousin's defense. "I can well believe it," he chuckled, "for Darcy is extraordinarily shy and uncomfortable in company." She could scarcely hide the surprise from her face at this, and, his suspicions confirmed, he continued. "During the season it is difficult to get him to accept any invitations to balls and parties. I have to remind him constantly that if he doesn't accept, at least a few people will think he is proud and thinks himself above everyone. He is a bit na�ve in not realizing that his shyness can be mistaken for pride." Elizabeth and Darcy both looked confused at this, but she soon smiled again. "I am sure that among his equals in consequence and fortune he can be quite amiable. I fear that the society in Hertfordshire was not to his liking." She looked at Darcy challengingly, but he looked even more confused. Fitzwilliam spoke again. "I fear you misjudge my poor cousin, Miss Bennet. He has appeared to snub even the highest of families, refusing the most prestigious introductions simply to avoid having to make conversation with a stranger." Here Darcy jumped in. "I fear that I am ill-qualified to recommend myself to strangers." Elizabeth was intrigued. "And why could that be? Why would a man of sense and education, who has lived in the world, be ill-qualified to recommend himself to strangers?" "I have not the talent which some possess of conversing easily with strangers." "I do not play this instrument so well as I should wish to, but I always supposed that to be my own fault, because I would not take the trouble of practicing." Darcy smiled. "You are perfectly right. You have employed your time much better. No one admitted to the privilege of hearing you can think anything wanting. We neither of us perform to strangers." He looked at her so affectionately that Colonel Fitzwilliam was sure Elizabeth would notice his admiration, but she only gave him a confused look. These two have some sort of extraordinary misunderstanding, I am sure. I shall have to see what I can do to clear it up! "What are you talking of? What are you telling Miss Bennet? I must have my share in the conversation!" yelled Lady Catherine. The gentlemen rolled their eyes and turned their attentions to their aunt. Later that evening, Darcy and Fitzwilliam were having brandy in the library when the colonel decided to broach the subject of Elizabeth Bennet. "You were right Darcy, Miss Bennet is an amazing young lady. I see why you are so enamored of her." He calmly sipped his brandy and awaited his cousin's reaction. "Enamored?" he replied hastily. "What would make you say that? No, no, we are only good friends." His furious blushing, however, belied his words. Fitzwilliam only gave him a withering look, and Darcy relented. "Oh alright, she is not only a good friend. I am completely bewitched by her. She is enchanting, is she not?" He looked into his brandy. "Do you think she likes me, Richard?" Fitzwilliam slapped his cousin on the back. "Well Darce, to be perfectly honest, I'm not entirely sure that she does." Darcy glared at him, bewildered. "Now, cousin, stay calm and listen to me. Her little speech today gives me reason to believe that she has some grudge against you. Does she have any reason to think ill of you?" His cousin's silence gave him his answer. "I see. Why don't you tell me all about your trip to Hertfordshire?" Darcy sighed and gave Fitzwilliam an embarrassed look. "Um� well, as Miss Bennet mentioned, we met at an Assembly one of our first nights there. I saw little breeding and no beauty at all that night. I danced only with Bingley's sisters and spent the rest of the evening thinking how I hate nothing more than a country dance. Bingley tried to get me to dance, with Miss Bennet, actually, but I said�" he paused, putting his head in his hands, "I said she was tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me. I said I was in no humor to give consequence to young ladies who had been slighted by other men." He looked up sheepishly. "How things change! But the worst part is, I believe she heard me. She walked right past me after Bingley left, and gave me a look that clearly said, 'I don't think you are handsome enough to tempt me either!', and then she laughed at me with Miss Lucas, now Mrs. Collins. At first I was angry with her, but I admit that I found her intriguing after that night. I was used to looking at others like that, but NOT being looked at that way myself! I wished to know more of her from that moment on." Here Colonel Fitzwilliam interjected. "Darcy, you amaze me. This is much worse than I expected. You insulted a lovely young woman practically to her face! That is inexcusable; I do not blame Miss Bennet for hating you!" Darcy glared at him. "Do you want to hear this or not?" Fitzwilliam waved his cousin on. "Several days later we went to a party at Lucas Lodge, and the younger Miss Bennets started a bit of dancing. Miss Bennet walked past when Sir William Lucas was talking to me, and he presented her to me as a dancing partner. She demurred, and I actually pressed her to dance! I don't know what came over me, but at that moment I wanted nothing more than to dance with her. And what do you think? She rejected me! I had never been rejected for a dance before. I was bewitched." He continued his story, telling his cousin about her stay at Netherfield, when he had felt that they were becoming friends; the meeting with Wickham; the Netherfield ball; and finally his persuasion in Bingley's removal from Netherfield. This last concerned Fitzwilliam. "To be sure, cousin, you have certainly not done anything to recommend yourself to Miss Bennet. And to separate Bingley from her sister was very unfair of you. You cannot be sure that she did not feel affection for your friend; she may just be discreet. You yourself are a great believer in hiding your emotions, although I cannot say that you are always successful in hiding your affection for Miss Bennet." Darcy was unsure how to take this critique. It had never even occurred to him that he could have been mistaken in any of his behavior. Fuming, he curtly bid his cousin goodnight and stormed out of the room. His cousin only yelled after him, "I am only trying to help you Darce. If anyone deserves to be happy at last, it is you!" Darcy sighed at this, then turned in for the night. Part II Upon entering his room, Darcy threw off his jacket, angrily untied his cravat and threw it on a chair. What does Fitzwilliam know? He wasn't even there! He didn't see the Bennets, with all their vulgarity. What right does he have to judge my actions? Eventually, however, his anger turned to doubt. Perhaps Fitzwilliam had seen something he could not, or would not, have seen. What he had said about emotions was true; Darcy tried never to show his, and it was possible that Jane shared his philosophy. She never flattered Bingley or behaved like other fortune hunters did; perhaps she did not want Bingley to think she was one. From what he knew of Jane, she did not seem capable of artifice and trickery, so this behavior was probably not a ploy. Still, she had seemed so serene, so unmoved� but I could also have wished to see her be uncaring, he admitted to himself. Oh no, what have I done? If I have truly saved him from a loveless marriage, I was right, but if she loved him in return, than I have done something very dishonorable. And Fitzwilliam Darcy does not do what is dishonorable! I will speak to Elizabeth� Miss Bennet tomorrow and see what I can find out about her sister's feelings towards Bingley. If I have done wrong, I will make it right! Comforted, he at last slept, dreams of Elizabeth haunting him all night. The next morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam was taking his morning walk when he came upon Elizabeth in the grove. "Miss Bennet!" he called out. "Colonel Fitzwilliam! How do you do?" "I'm doing very well. Just taking my morning walk. I trust you are doing well." "Yes, thank you. How are your cousins and aunt?" "My aunt and Anne are their usual selves; Darcy was somewhat out of spirits when I last spoke to him." "Oh? Is he ill?" she asked with very little feeling. "No, not exactly." He wondered if he should go on. A little hint can't hurt, he thought. "I think he is coming to realize that he is not the perfect man, much as he wishes to be," he said lightly. Then he turned to her. "Miss Bennet, what do you think of my cousin?" "I beg your pardon? What do you mean?" "Well, I have noticed a tension between you, but I can't quite put my finger on its cause. I am quite aware of what my cousin thinks of you, but I am at a loss to describe your opinion of him." "I am quite sure, Colonel, that Mr. Darcy and I feel exactly the same way about each other; and as I said before, we are not the best of friends," she replied. Fitzwilliam chuckled and shook his head. "In that, Miss Bennet, I believe you are mistaken. If you do not think favorably of him, then your opinions of each other could not be more different. Darcy thinks very highly of you." Elizabeth looked at him as if he were insane. "I'm sorry sir, but I cannot agree with you there. Mr. Darcy dislikes me as much as I do him; of that I am certain." "Are you really Miss Bennet? I'm sorry, I don't mean to be rude or impertinent, but if I was ever certain of anything, I am certain that my cousin likes you very much." Elizabeth considered him gravely, then spoke playfully. "And how can you be so sure Colonel Fitzwilliam?" He stopped and looked at her calmly. "Because he told me." Her shock was so great, she could not even attempt to conceal it. "I don't even know what to say. I find this very difficult to accept; he has never spoken to me but to argue, and only looks to find fault. From the earliest moments of our acquaintance he has been rude and unfriendly. This is the behavior of a man who likes me?" "Hmm," he replied. "Well, I certainly see your confusion. However, I think you misunderstand my cousin. He looks on you with interest, not disdain. You are a very unique lady, Miss Bennet, and Darcy is not used to dealing with the likes of you." She laughed, acknowledging this to likely be true. "And as far as his behavior goes� well, I tried to give you a glimpse into his character yesterday. He is a shy young man, uncomfortable in society and made serious by heavy responsibilities placed on him very early in life. He hardly knows what to say around his closest friends sometimes, much less a young lady he doesn't quite comprehend!" He said this playfully, but his meaning was quite serious, and Elizabeth understood him completely. However, her doubts about Mr. Darcy's character did not leave her for long. Can he explain his cousin's behavior to poor Wickham? Doubtful! "Colonel Fitzwilliam, I appreciate what you are trying to do. I am sorry to tell you, though, that even if Mr. Darcy's behavior to me had been impeccable, I have other, more compelling reasons to think ill of him." Fitzwilliam was disquieted. Does she know about Bingley? he wondered. He was about to mention it, but thought better of it. If she does not know, it would be better for her to stay ignorant on that point! No sense in giving her another reason to hate him. "I am all ears Miss Bennet. Knowing my cousin's character to be upright and honorable, I am curious to hear what you have to accuse him of." "I am not a gossip sir� but, I have heard, from a very reliable source, that Mr. Darcy's character is not as honorable as you think." She paused, meaning to tease him a bit, but continued. "You see, the ---shire militia has been quartered at Meryton these past few months, and one of the officers is an old acquaintance of Mr. Darcy's. He had quite a story to relate about Mr. Darcy's business affairs at the time of his father's death." Here Fitzwilliam interrupted her. "Do you mean to tell me that you are acquainted with George Wickham?" This was worse than he had feared. "I am," she answered somewhat defiantly. "Oh Miss Bennet, this is a worse situation than I had realized. Darcy mentioned seeing him, but he neglected to tell me that you were friends with him. I wish it were in my power to tell you the truth of this, but it is not my place. I hope Darcy will tell you, but just know this: whatever Wickham told you, I am sure it is far from the truth. Please do not judge my cousin too hastily because he does not have the charm and manners of George Wickham." He bowed and took his leave, anxious to tell Darcy of this latest development. Elizabeth was left to her own confused thoughts. No no no! I cannot believe she fell for the charms of Wickham! How could Darcy have let this happen? Although I suppose if one was already predisposed to think ill of him, any confirmation of bad character would be welcome. Darcy, you idiot! Fitzwilliam practically ran into Rosings, seeking out his cousin before Lady Catherine realized he was back. He found Darcy as he had expected, hiding in the library. He spoke before Darcy even realized he was there. "Darcy, why did you not tell me that Miss Bennet was so well acquainted with Wickham?" Startled, Darcy stood and faced Fitzwilliam. "What? What are you talking about?" "I was just walking with Miss Bennet out in the grove, and our conversation turned to you. She told me outright that she dislikes you, and it is not, as I thought, because of your poor manners� well, not entirely. Apparently Wickham has been working his magic in Hertfordshire." "WHAT?!" yelled Darcy with rage. "What has he been saying to Elizabeth?" "That I was not able to discover; however, based on the hints she dropped, my instincts tell me it has something to do with your father's will and the living." Darcy's eyes closed in a pained expression. "So that was the meaning of her questions," he said, more to himself than to his cousin. He cursed himself for several moments before recalling Fitzwilliam's presence. "What did you tell her? Did you defend me?" Fitzwilliam put a reassuring hand on Darcy's shoulder. "I did not tell her anything. I did not think it was my place, and said so. I only said that Wickham had probably lied. I was unsure how much you wanted divulged, so I leave it to you to clear this up." "Do you think I should even bother? She seems quite content in hating me," Darcy replied bitterly. Fitzwilliam sighed. "It seems to me that Miss Bennet is certainly worth the bother." He patted Darcy's shoulder and left the library. Part III Darcy knew that his cousin was right. He had at first thought that he could forget Elizabeth, but after seeing her again over the last few days, he realized that he could not live without her. Despite her low connections, her family's objectionable situation, her utter inequality to himself, he could not be happy unless she were his wife. But this Wickham situation might prove to be a great obstacle, especially combined with his terrible behavior towards her. After suffering through a day at Rosings, he retired early in order to contemplate his next move. He spent a good deal of the night formulating a plan of what to say to her in explanation; indeed, since meeting Elizabeth Bennet, sleep seemed to have become a luxury he did not often receive. After an eternity, he slept. The next morning, Fitzwilliam gave him advice of what to say, then directed him to a path where he had seen Elizabeth walking several times. Darcy braced himself for a difficult conversation and walked out. He found Elizabeth a few minutes later and bowed in greeting. "Good morning Miss Bennet. I hope you are well. May I join you?" he said, with as much softness of manner as he could muster. Apparently he was successful, because Elizabeth seemed surprised at his tone. "Very well, thank you sir. Of course you may join me. How do you do?" He cleared his throat nervously. "I am afraid that I am not very well Miss Bennet. Something very disturbing has come to my attention." Elizabeth cringed slightly, thinking back to her conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam the day before, but said nothing. He continued. "My cousin told me something of your talk with him. I would like very much to know what Mr. Wickham told you about me, so that I may have a chance to defend myself. Would you allow me that privilege?" He looked at her so earnestly that she could not refuse, and told him everything that Wickham had related to her. His fury grew, but he tried to contain his temper for her benefit. When she had finished, he replied. "Yes, I should have figured as much. He has spread similar rumors before. Fortunately all of Derbyshire knows his true character and is not prejudiced against me, but I suppose in places where I am a stranger he is easily believed." He sighed and scratched his head. "Miss Bennet, perhaps we should sit down and I will tell you the entire truth of all my dealings with Mr. Wickham." He led her to a bench and proceeded to give her all the details of their childhood and youth, and ending with his father's death. Elizabeth was truly shocked, but seemed slightly disbelieving. I see I will have to tell her all�... Taking a deep breath, he began again. "There is one more part of this story which must be told, though it is painful for me to remember it. Last summer our paths crossed again when Mr. Wickham attempted to seduce my 15 year old sister." Elizabeth's eyes widened as Darcy related the whole sordid tale of Ramsgate. He could see that she was visibly shaken, and decided to give her time to assimilate what he had just told her. "I realize that this is a great deal of information to digest, so I will leave you to your thoughts. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask me. I hope to see you at Rosings for tea this afternoon." He bowed and walked back towards Rosings. Darcy had never been more thankful for his self-control, for his calm exterior did not betray the turmoil going on in his soul. Elizabeth had seemed very shocked, but otherwise did not react at all. Did she believe him? Would this make her think better of him? He would not know until he saw her that afternoon. Alas, Fate seemed determined to work against him a bit more. When the Hunsford party arrived for tea, Elizabeth was not among their number. Charlotte made her excuses, saying that Elizabeth had returned from her walk with a terrible headache and needed rest and solitude. Darcy was distressed, for he was sure that his revelations had caused her "headache". He mumbled some sort of excuse and slipped out of the room. After a brief hesitation, he walked out the door and towards Hunsford parsonage. Before he realized it, he had reached the door and rang the bell. A servant answered and took him to the parlour where Elizabeth sitting. She had not seemed to hear the bell, for when the door opened he saw her jump up from the chair in which she had been sitting. To say that she was surprised to see him would be an understatement. "Mr. Darcy!" she exclaimed; he bowed. "Miss Bennet. Excuse me, I hope you are feeling better. Mrs. Collins said you were not feeling well, and I was afraid that perhaps our conversation this morning had been the cause." Concern was so evident in his countenance that even Elizabeth could not be blind to it. "Thank you sir. I am feeling a little better, though I still have not finished berating myself." "Berating yourself? Why ever would you do that?" "Mr. Darcy, my behavior towards you has been unpardonable. I was so prejudiced against you that I did not even pause to think that Mr. Wickham's tale was improperly revealed to me in so short an acquaintance, nor that it might be untrue. In fact, I did not doubt its truth for a moment, and my treatment of you since then has been influenced by that belief. I am truly sorry." Darcy was shocked; her behavior had been unpardonable? He had never even noticed any unfriendliness from her until his cousin had mentioned it! "Miss Bennet, you surprise me. To be honest, I did not know that you harbored me any ill will until Colonel Fitzwilliam told me so. It is I who should apologize, for if I behaved in such a way that would make Wickham's claims seem reasonable, then I was at fault. The fact that my character did not speak for itself shows me the error of my ways. Please, accept my apologies." This was obviously not what she had expected to hear. The proud Mr. Darcy, humbling himself before her, was a sight she thought she would never see. But there he was, doing just that. It was endearing somehow, and she had never thought him as handsome as she did now. Realizing that the mood needed lightening, she smiled. "As I am a lady, I shall not argue with a gentleman over the greater part of the fault, though I am sure that neither of us could escape some censure. To own the truth, our acquaintance began very poorly and has only gotten worse. Therefore, why do we not start over and see if we cannot improve our manners the second time?" He smiled widely. "I would be very happy if we could do that Miss Bennet." He bowed, then turned and began leaving the room. "Where are you going sir?" she asked confusedly. "Why, it is most improper for a lady and gentleman who are unacquainted to be alone in a room together!" he replied innocently. "I will see you again when we have been properly introduced," and with a wink and a bow, walked out the door. Elizabeth could not help but laugh, and thought that this Mr. Darcy was very handsome indeed! Darcy was quite satisfied with how things had turned out, and, had he been slightly less proper (and manly), would have skipped back to Rosings. Upon his return, he claimed Colonel Fitzwilliam's attention and told him of his meeting with Elizabeth. The colonel was amused and relieved, and thought that Elizabeth was an excellent influence on his usually stuffy cousin. He promised to introduce them at the next possible opportunity; Darcy, being impatient to begin his "new" acquaintance, suggested that they call on the parsonage immediately, but Fitzwilliam talked him into waiting until the next day. Darcy grumbled but assented, and again retired early to begin dreaming about Elizabeth as soon as possible. * * * * * * Elizabeth could not quite explain the fluttery feeling in her stomach as she readied herself the following morning. For some reason, she seemed to take extra care with her hair and dress, choosing the frock that most flattered her figure. She pinched her cheeks to brighten them, tied her bonnet, and went our for her morning walk. Recalling how frequently she seemed to meet with handsome gentlemen on her morning stroll, she smiled and kept a sharp eye out for other walkers. She was not disappointed, for a few minutes later Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy appeared coming towards her. "Miss Bennet!" cried Colonel Fitzwilliam. She smiled and walked up to them. "Good morning Colonel Fitzwilliam. How do you do?" "Very well, thank you. And you?" "Fortunately, my headache from yesterday passed, and I am feeling very well." Darcy's lips twitched into a small smile. "I am glad to hear it. May I present to you my cousin, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Derbyshire. Darcy, this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She is staying with Mr. and Mrs. Collins at the parsonage." Darcy bowed. "Miss Bennet, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance at last. I have heard much of you, and none of the praise has been exaggerated, I assure you," he said, repeating the words Fitzwilliam had used days before. Elizabeth laughed. "The pleasure is mine sir. I am pleased to see that you are not a bit like I had heard you described in Hertfordshire," she replied teasingly. All three broke into laughter at this point, and fell into much easier conversation than had been possible before. "May I inquire after your family Miss Bennet? I hope they are all well," asked Darcy eventually. "They are all in excellent health," she replied guardedly. "I am glad to hear it. And how does your sister like London?" "Perhaps not so much as she usually would. It appears that Miss Bingley was terribly rude to her, and she was much hurt by it." She did not say more, afraid to mention Bingley's name. Instead Darcy did it for her. "And has Mr. Bingley visited her?" he asked, knowing perfectly well that he had not. Elizabeth was surprised by this question. "No sir, she has not seen Mr. Bingley at all. Miss Bingley told Jane that he was too occupied with the company of you and your sister to call on her." Darcy blushed slightly and coughed. "Well, I am no longer in town to occupy his time, so I am sure he will visit her soon. The next time I write to him, I will inquire after her, to� remind him that she is there. Sometimes Bingley is, um, forgetful of his social duties. Unless Caroline tells him outright to do something, he will never remember to do it!" He laughed nervously, then changed the subject to more comfortable topics. After escorting Elizabeth back to the parsonage, the gentlemen walked back to Rosings. "How did I do Fitzwilliam? Was I more affable and polite?" Darcy asked worriedly. "You did very well Darcy, very well. You even handled the Bingley topic handsomely. I hope you will really write to him to "remind" him of Miss Bennet's being in town." "Oh yes, I certainly shall. Bingley deserves at least that much. I may even slip in a note about possibly being mistaken in thinking Miss Bennet had no regard for him. Do you think I should?" "This is a side of you I have never seen old boy! You have asked for my opinion more often in the last two days than in the whole of your life. I like Miss Elizabeth's effect on you," he teased. "Yes, I think you should. Otherwise poor Bingley may be too afraid to go see her." Darcy nodded in agreement as they walked in the door of Rosings and braced himself to face the attentions of his aunt. After an appropriate amount of time in her company, he excused himself to write a letter to Georgiana. It wasn't a complete lie; he did write to his sister, filling the letter, as was typical of late, with Elizabeth's praises. However, he also had another, more difficult letter to write: to Bingley. He kept it brief and to the point. He mentioned meeting with Elizabeth in Kent and said that she had hinted to him of her sister's tender feelings for his friend. He apologized for his interference and confessed her presence in town. He subtly urged Bingley to call on her, and gave him the address. Both letters were sealed and sent that afternoon. London, the following day�... Caroline Bingley was very fortunate to have been shopping when Darcy's letter arrived; otherwise she might have found herself on the receiving end of her brother's rarely seen wrath. Had she ventured to go in the library, she might have had a book thrown at her head. However, she was not, and Bingley's rage was vented on all the throw pillows he could get his hands on. Upon reading the letter a second time, his anger was soothed by the prospect of Jane Bennet's "tender feelings", and resolved to call on her at Gracechurch Street immediately. He did not know if he would even find her at home, but Fate decided to smile on our long-suffering friend and kept Jane home caring for her young cousin who had twisted an ankle while playing that morning. When her uncle's manservant announced, "Mr. Bingley to see you Miss Bennet," and showed him in, she rose quickly from her seat near the child, a deep crimson in her cheeks. The sight of her lovely face was like water to a man dying of thirst; he could barely control the urge to sweep her up in his arms. Instead, he bowed deeply. "Miss Bennet! I am so delighted to see you. I am deeply sorry that I have not come to call on you before, but I only learned about your presence here this very morning." She could barely look him in the eye before, but at these words her head snapped up and she gave him a confused look. "But Mr. Bingley, I called on your sister and she returned my visit. She told me you knew of my being in town." Poor Jane! She still could not think ill enough of Caroline to realize that there was deception in the matter. "I am very sorry that she told you that. You may rest assured, had I known you were here before, I would have called upon you long ago. Unfortunately, it seems that my sister chose to keep this knowledge from me, for reasons of her own which it does no good to dwell upon. I hope you can forgive me of my terrible negligence of you; I never intended it to be so," he ended softly. Jane was again too embarrassed to look him in the eye, and continued to blush brightly. "I would gladly forgive you, sir, were there anything to forgive. But I do not see any fault in your behavior, for you could not visit me if you did not know I was here." He smiled and the tension left his shoulders. "You are truly an angel Miss Bennet," he replied before he could help himself. He gazed at her for a moment before realizing that she was still very uncomfortable. "I have had a letter from Darcy this morning. I can report that your sister Miss Elizabeth is in excellent health." "Thank you. I hope Mr. Darcy is also well?" "He is, I believe. He sounded more lighthearted and jovial than usual, I daresay more than I have ever seen him. His letter was very uncharacteristic of the old stuffy Darcy!" Bingley's easy manners and conversation eventually relieved Jane's embarrassment, and they were soon chatting happily as they had done in Hertfordshire. After about half an hour, Mrs. Gardiner arrived from her outing and was introduced to Mr. Bingley. Curious to meet the man who had so affected her niece, she invited him to stay for a tea; he accepted the invitation with alacrity. As the afternoon wore on, Mrs. Gardiner could easily see that the two young people were very much in love, and did not doubt a happy outcome. When Mr. Gardiner arrived for supper, another invitation was extended to Bingley, but he unhappily had to decline, as his sister expected him. "But may I call again tomorrow? I should like very much to continue our acquaintance," he said, looking mostly at Jane. The supper invitation was transferred to the following night, and he agreed to arrive in time for tea. He bowed to Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, then turned to Jane and softly kissed her hand. "Good night Miss Bennet," he practically whispered, and took his leave. "My dear Charles, where on earth have you been? Louisa and I had quite despaired of you!" cried Caroline as her brother walked in. The grim look on his face made her stop in her tracks. "Why, whatever is the matter? You look as if someone has died." "No Caroline, nothing is dead but the respect I once had for you. You have deceived me and wronged me. Do not even attempt to deny it; Darcy wrote to me this morning, and I have since then been at Gracechurch Street visiting Miss Jane Bennet." The shock on Caroline's face was exactly what he wanted to see. "Why, Charles, I have no idea what you are talking of! Dear Jane is in town? I must call on her!" "Do not try to lie to me Caroline. I know very well that you saw her, twice in fact. She and Darcy told me as much. At least Darcy felt some guilt and resolved to tell me the entire truth. You were not so kind, and so deserve a greater part of my anger. I will take my supper alone this evening in my room, and tomorrow night I dine at the Gardiners'. Good evening." He bowed curtly and went to the kitchen to give his orders. Caroline could only sputter and stammer her excuses to the air around her. The following afternoon found Bingley ringing the bell at Gracechurch Street at exactly four o'clock for tea. He was graciously welcomed by Jane and Mrs. Gardiner, in whose company he again spent the most agreeable afternoon since his happy days in Hertfordshire. Mr. Gardiner arrived again just before supper; Bingley found him to be one of the most amiable and intelligent men of his acquaintance. Mr. Gardiner had known of Bingley's father and gratified the young man by speaking very warmly about his well-known fair business practices and honesty. Bingley could not recall a more pleasant evening. A passing comment by Mr. Gardiner, however, threatened to darken his mood. "Jane, we will miss you when you return to Longbourn dear girl. It has been delightful to have you here. But I suppose your father and mother will be glad to have you back so soon." Bingley looked up at Jane with a hurt expression on his countenance. "Do you leave soon Miss Bennet?" he inquired, hoping the answer was no; he was disappointed. "Indeed I do sir, I am to leave day after tomorrow for Hertfordshire." He was stricken. To have found her again, then have her taken away so soon! He sat in stunned silence for a moment, when suddenly a happy thought occurred to him. Do I not have an estate in Hertfordshire? And would it not be lovely to be back in the country? "Well in that case Miss Bennet, please allow me to escort you home. I have planned on returning to Netherfield myself, and can just as easily leave in two days as in two weeks. Would that be agreeable to you?" Jane only smiled, blushed, and nodded slightly. "Thank you sir, that is most kind. I would not wish to inconvenience you though," she replied. "No inconvenience at all, I assure you. It is my pleasure." They gazed lovingly at each other, the others in the room quite forgotten until a young voice popped up. "Cousin Jane, I think you must have something on your face, because Mr. Bindley keeps looking at you funny!" observed 5 year old Susan. The laughter which followed disrupted their reverie, but "Bindley" whispered to Susan that "there is nothing wrong with your cousin's face; I look at it because it is very lovely." Though the words were spoken in the ear of the little girl, they were meant for Jane, and she did not miss them or their meaning. After supper, Bingley took his leave in order to prepare for the journey to Netherfield, and made arrangements to pick Jane up at Gracechurch Street two mornings hence. Content and in love, Bingley returned home while Jane rushed to her room to write a long letter to Elizabeth. Back at Rosings...� The friendship between Darcy and Elizabeth was progressing quite satisfactorily for all parties, and unbeknownst to Elizabeth, Darcy had twice postponed his departure from Kent. Unfortunately, he found that the business that called him to town could not wait much longer, and Colonel Fitzwilliam had to return to his regiment soon. Darcy wanted to come to some sort of understanding with Elizabeth, but was afraid that their friendship was still too young and fragile to risk such an advance. Still, he wanted to give her some idea of his intentions, and also find a way to introduce her to Georgiana. This problem was solved by Georgiana's latest letter to him. My dear brother, I was very happy to receive your last letter. I miss you so much. Miss Bennet sounds like a truly delightful lady, and I cannot wait to meet her. Perhaps when we are at Pemberley this summer, you can bring a party of friends with you. I am sure that Miss Bennet would find the beauties of Derbyshire much to her liking since she is so fond of nature. I hope to see you soon Fitzwilliam. Your affectionate sister, Georgiana Darcy was surprised by his sister's forwardness, but could not find fault in her perceptiveness. Yes, perhaps an invitation to Pemberley is just the thing! He spent the morning planning his invitation speech and had quite perfected it by the time the Hunsford party arrived for tea. When he went to speak to Elizabeth, however, he found himself as usual somewhat tongue-tied. "Good afternoon Miss Bennet. I hope you are well." "Quite well, thank you sir," she smiled brightly. "I have just received a letter from Jane." God, she looks beautiful today. How is it possible for a woman who is already perfect to grow more beautiful by the day? "Ah, how is your sister?" "She is very well. Mr. Bingley called on her a few days ago, and will be escorting her back to Hertfordshire when she returns. Apparently he means to reopen Netherfield." Darcy smiled. "I am glad to hear it. He is very fond of� Hertfordshire. Though it is difficult not to be," he stammered, blushing. "Will you be joining him at Netherfield on this trip?" she asked in reply. Suddenly realizing how this might sound, it was now Elizabeth's turn to blush. "Um, I can't really say. I have not heard from him yet, so I don't have an invitation." He paused. "Unfortunately, I must be in town for several weeks, so I am not sure if he will still be there when I am able to leave." Her head snapped up. "You expect him to leave again so soon?" she asked suspiciously. "Em, well, I can't be certain, I suppose, but before I came here I invited him and his sisters and Mr. Hurst to join me at Pemberley this summer. I assume he still plans to go." Elizabeth relaxed slightly and smiled again. "I see. Well, perhaps he just has some business at Netherfield that will not take long." Darcy grinned knowingly. "No, I do not think it will take very long at all." There was a brief silence and then he began his prepared speech. "Um, Miss Bennet, as I said, Mr. Bingley and his sisters will be joining me at Pemberley in July. My sister will also be there. I would like very much for you to meet her." He paused to nervously clear his throat. "May I� would it be too forward of me to invite you to join the party?" Elizabeth's eyes widened in surprise. Obviously she had not expected him to say anything of the sort. "Well� it would be an honor Mr. Darcy. Thank you; but I don't know if I can accept. I am supposed to travel with my aunt and uncle in July," she replied disappointedly. His heart sank. "I understand. Where will your travels take you?" "I am not certain. I believe we are to go to the Lakes, but my uncle's business might not allow him enough time away." If only I could invite them as well! But I can't very well do that if I don't know them...� "Tell me Miss Bennet, is this the aunt and uncle with whom your sister Jane is staying?" he asked suddenly. "Yes, it is; in Cheapside," she added slyly to see his reaction. He barely noticed. "I see. And, will you be stopping in London on your way to Hertfordshire?" he asked hopefully. "Only briefly, to change to the post. Why?" He blushed. "Oh, well� I thought perhaps� if you were to spend some time in town, you and your aunt and uncle could� come dine at my townhouse with Georgiana and myself. Oh, and Miss Lucas, of course, as she is traveling with you," he blurted out very inarticulately. A tiny smile curled on Elizabeth's lips. "Well, our plans are not yet fixed. It would be nice to spend a bit of time in London. I could write to my aunt and uncle to see if they would mind visitors for a day or two." His beaming smile plainly showed his delight, and even Elizabeth could not help but smile at the sight. "You should smile this way more often Mr. Darcy. You have excellent teeth!" she teased, eliciting a chuckle. "I cannot help but smile in your company Miss Bennet," he replied softly, his eyes glowing with admiration. She met his gaze for a moment, but could not long keep it without blushing. "When do you leave for London sir?" "Early Saturday morning two days hence. Fitzwilliam will stay in town with me another week, then leave for his regiment in the north. And you?" "On Saturday week. Nothing personal against you or Colonel Fitzwilliam, and don't tell my cousin, but I don't think I could stay any longer in the company of the honorable Lady Catherine DeBourgh!" she whispered. He stifled a laugh with the back of his hand. "Believe me, I understand perfectly. I am not terribly saddened to be deprived of her company either," he confided. "She is even grating on Fitzwilliam's nearly untouchable nerves! Even if I had been able to stay, I doubt I would be successful in persuading him to postpone our departure once more," he laughed. "Once more?" asked Elizabeth. Darcy cast down his eyes, realizing what he had revealed. "Em, yes� we have twice postponed our departure already," he admitted, looking at her from the corner of his eye to see her reaction. She knew not what to say, for after his admission that he did not care for his aunt's company, she could only see one reason for this procrastination. "Your company has been greatly appreciated, I am sure," she answered demurely, a deep blush settling on her cheeks. "Well, I suppose it is time for tea," she said more lightly, and they returned to the company. Two days passed quickly, and time came for Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy to take their leave. Before departing they called one last time at the parsonage. Both gentlemen seemed saddened at leaving this company, but were heartened by Elizabeth's confirmation that she and Maria would be staying in town for three days, pending Sir William Lucas' approval. Before leaving, Darcy spoke to Elizabeth. "Here is my address in town. Please send me a note when you arrive, and we shall call on you." Elizabeth accepted the card and curtseyed; he took her hand and tenderly kissed it, then went to the carriage. Colonel Fitzwilliam now sought Elizabeth's attention. "Miss Bennet, it was a great pleasure to meet you. I hope we will be seeing a good deal more of each other in the future. I already feel as if you are part of the family," he said with a wink, also kissed her hand, and left. Did he say part of the family? Elizabeth wondered as she watched the gentlemen drive away. Next section... |