Her Indomitable Resolve

by Jann Rowland

“Do you know this man?”

  “Only by what Miss Bennet and Bingley have informed me of him.”

  Lady Susan pursed her lips and nodded, though her manner was a little severe.

  “Given how Miss Bennet speaks of this uncle of hers, I suspect she and her sister are close with his family. I suggest it would be best if you did not speak in a manner that may be even remotely construed as critical, Darcy.”

  “I assure you, I meant no slander toward the man. If he is at all intelligent, he will understand the possibility of a connection and will not stand in the way of its potential.”

  “And is there any possibility of the sort of connection of which you speak?”

  Darcy once again turned to his aunt and regarded her. “I cannot say,” replied Darcy. “Miss Bennet has impressed me as she has you, but the issues you mentioned are real. Would an uncle in trade not be a reprehensible connection?”

  “It may be best for you to meet this man. Then you can judge.” When Darcy nodded in thought, Lady Susan added: “If he is acceptable, and given Miss Bennet’s intelligence, I cannot think she would be so fond of him if he were not, then I would suggest you do not hesitate.”

  “I thought you did not mean to push her toward me,” said Darcy.

  “I do not,” replied she. “What I am saying is that if she makes you happy, no number of uncles in trade should hold you back. Especially if he is an estimable man, as I suspect he is, given her testimony.

  “You know that I have been concerned about your enthusiasm for marriage, Darcy, for I believe you would be happier with a wife and you need one to continue your line. I also think you need a wife who will make you happy; Miss Bennet would do just that. If you determine she is, then your choice is made for you. Do not allow society to dictate that choice, and do not allow the memories of your father’s instructions to sway you. You will be better off if you act in a way that ensures your own happiness.”

  Then with an affectionate pat on his shoulder, Lady Susan departed, leaving Darcy to his thoughts. Those ruminations were dominated by the person of Miss Elizabeth Bennet, as Darcy returned to his examination of the woman without hesitation. Indeed, there was much to like about Miss Bennet. He would need to be blind to miss it.

  Chapter XIX

  In many respects, Lady Susan’s ball was the climax of the season. Though there were still dinners to attend and the invitations continued to arrive, everything seemed less by comparison, though whether that was because of the fineness of the entertainment or a true diminution of the season, Elizabeth did not know. Jane and her husband agreed, as Elizabeth soon discovered.

  “A ball such as that which Lady Susan plans makes other amusements pale in comparison,” mused Mr. Bingley when Elizabeth stated her opinion. “Though I have never attended before, I have attended other events of similar scope.”

  “Is the season winding down, Mr. Bingley?” asked Elizabeth.

  “It is,” replied Mr. Bingley, “though it will continue for some time yet. It is yet only the second week of May, and events continue until June.”

  “For my part,” said Jane, “I believe I have had enough of it. Perhaps we may return to Hertfordshire soon?”

  “You will receive no argument from me,” replied Mr. Bingley. Then he laughed. “If you had heard me say that even last year, you may have wondered if I was ill, for I have always been a sociable man. It seems marriage works a wondrous change on a man, for I find that I have enough to keep me happy right here.”

  The tenderness with which he regarded Jane made it evident that Elizabeth was about to become superfluous, and she excused herself. When she saw them again, they all agreed they would not stay in London much longer and would seek the comfort and tranquility of Netherfield instead.

  This was not palatable to them all, though Elizabeth would not have expected Miss Bingley to agree with their determination. It was fortunate the woman had other avenues to pursue her amusements, and she was quick to switch to those sources when informed that her brother would, in her mind, leave London before anyone of fashion would consider such heresy.

  “Charles,” said she the very day after, “I have spoken with Louisa and shall join them for the remainder of the season. When the time comes, I will journey to Hurst’s estate for the summer months.”

  “That is likely for the best,” observed Mr. Bingley with a nod. “As I recall, you did not appreciate Hertfordshire. This decision will spare you from the necessity of ever going there again, as I will let go of the lease to Netherfield by the autumn.”

  “Thank heavens you have made such a sensible choice,” said Miss Bingley, her voice much higher than necessary. “I suppose you must visit from time to time, but you should keep those as much to a minimum as you can.”

  That Miss Bingley did not consider her words an insult to the sisters, who had, after all, been raised in the community, was a mark of her continued insolence. Neither Elizabeth nor Jane saw fit to challenge her for her words. Soon after, Miss Bingley departed for her sister’s house, and Elizabeth did not think she was the only one relieved by Miss Bingley’s incivility.

  For one reason or another, it was three days after Lady Susan’s ball before Elizabeth visited again with Georgiana. The girl was impatient as she exclaimed as soon as Elizabeth alighted from the carriage that bright spring morning.

  “I have asked William, but as usual, he can tell me very little. I have waited for you to come, for I am afire with curiosity!”

  Georgiana led Elizabeth to the sitting-room and would not give attention to any other activity until Elizabeth satisfied her. Of particular interest was the dance Elizabeth had shared with her brother, along with Elizabeth’s conversation with her cousins as dinner had ended. What Georgiana made of them Elizabeth could not say, for she was not explicit, and that was not the only subject on which she focused. At length, she was contented, though it took Elizabeth more than an hour to achieve it.

  “It sounds like it was lovely,” said Georgiana at last, leaning back against the sofa. With a thumb and her forefinger, she played with a curl that had come loose from her hair, her manner introspective. “With such accounts as these, I might almost wish I had been there, though I know in my heart I am not ready.”

  “Do not allow Miss Bingley to hear you say such things,” said Elizabeth, “for she may attempt to induce you to attend the next event.”

  Georgiana shuddered in what Elizabeth thought was a theatrical display and shook her head. “Whatever Miss Bingley wishes, she shall not find a willing subject in me. I do not know how you endure her, Elizabeth.”

  “I am not required to endure her any longer,” said Elizabeth, to Georgiana’s interested look. “Miss Bingley has taken herself to her sister’s house, for it seems she considers our interest in the remainder of the season insufficient.”

  The shudder changing to a laugh, Georgiana exclaimed: “How you must miss her company, for with Miss Bingley’s absence, who shall inform you of how to spend your time, the finest places to go and see, and above all, how to look on others as if they were of little importance.?”

  “Indeed, I do not know how I shall manage.”

  They fell against each other, laughing. Then Elizabeth directed the conversation away from Miss Bingley and they spoke of other matters for some time. As they spoke, Elizabeth reflected that though she had had her fill of London society for the present, Georgiana’s company was one thing she would miss when she returned to Hertfordshire. Though letters were not the same as being in her company, the ability to correspond would reduce some of the sting of separation. As Elizabeth formed the determination to ask her friend if they may exchange letters, Lady Susan entered the room.

  “Georgiana,” greeted she, fixing her niece with all the pleasure of a beloved relation. “And, Miss Bennet. I see you are visiting my niece today.”

  “I wished for an account of your ball, and William has no talent in relating such things.”

  Lady Susan nodded to her niece, sayin
g: “Most men do not. Has Miss Bennet assuaged your curiosity?”

  “Oh, yes,” said Georgiana. “Elizabeth has given me an excellent account.”

  “Then I shall wait until another time to give you mine. Now, of what were you speaking when I entered the room?”

  “Elizabeth was just relating an amusing anecdote of her cousins,” said Georgiana.

  “But I am certain that would hold little interest for your ladyship,” said Elizabeth. “There was one matter of which I wished to speak, Georgiana, and that is my return to Hertfordshire before long.” Elizabeth gave her a mischievous smile and added: “That is the primary reason for Miss Bingley’s change of residence—well, that and the fact that she detests my home.

  “Of more particular import, I was hoping you would consent to exchange letters when I have gone. It is not the same, but I should like to remain in contact with you.”

  “Ah, so you have not asked her yet,” observed Lady Susan.

  Confused, Elizabeth looked back to Georgiana, who wasted no time in explaining. “I would like to invite you to visit us in Derbyshire this summer, Elizabeth, for my brother has given his approval. Please say you will come, for I do not wish to part with your company yet.”

  Though flattered, Elizabeth was uncertain and voiced her concerns. “Will it be proper, Georgiana? Your brother will also be at his estate, will he not?”

  “Yes, William loves Pemberley and would be there always if he had the choice. Mrs. Annesley will also be present, so there should be nothing preventing you from coming.”

  Elizabeth paused, uncertain what she should say, allowing Lady Susan the opportunity to interrupt. “Darcy also made some mention of inviting Mr. Bingley and your sister for the summer, so that will remove the question of chaperonage.”

  “I have yet heard nothing of this,” replied Elizabeth.

  “That is because I do not believe William has yet spoken to Mr. Bingley,” said Georgiana.

  “I have another suggestion if you are willing to hear it,” said Lady Susan.

  When she voiced her willingness to hear, Lady Susan said: “It is on my mind that I have as little desire to give up your company as Georgiana. Thus, if you are amenable, I should like you to visit my husband’s estate at Snowlock also. Perhaps you could go to Pemberley first and then come to Snowlock?”

  Elizabeth was so surprised that she could not respond at once. This allowed her ladyship to speak again, which she did, though with a smile, indicating she was imparting a confidence.

  “Though I know Georgiana and William will abuse Snowlock as not being the equal of Pemberley, we are fond of it. Snowlock is only thirty miles from Pemberley, and the journey will not be difficult. I am certain we can keep you adequately entertained if you agree to visit us.”

  “It is an honor to receive such an invitation,” replied Elizabeth, at last finding her tongue. “I do not know what to say.”

  “Perhaps an acceptance would be best,” said Lady Susan with a smile. “Now would be an excellent time to display some of that indomitable will I know you possess.”

  Elizabeth was still at a loss for words, and the sight of it prompted her ladyship to laugh. “You know that I am no proud and haughty woman, Miss Bennet. Nothing is intimidating about my offer, for I would wish you to receive it in the manner I intended to offer it. I have a high opinion of you and your sister, and I should be pleased if you will accept my invitation.”

  “Then I will accept,” said Elizabeth with a warm smile, “and yours too, Georgiana, should my guardian approve, and Mr. Bingley also accepts the invitation to Pemberley.”

  Elizabeth paused, and looked at Lady Susan, which prompted her to add: “Perhaps I could extend the invitation to include your sister and her husband if you are concerned about staying with us alone.”

  Sensing she was being teased, Elizabeth hastened to reply: “It is not that, Lady Susan, though your offer is all that is generous.”

  “Nothing of the sort. For your brother and sister, however, I should like to invite them in person.”

  “I understand,” said Elizabeth. “Based on my conditions, I shall accept, though my brother and sister must speak for themselves.”

  “Then I suspect it is as good as decided, Miss Bennet,” said Lady Susan, “for we all know that Darcy and Mr. Bingley are the best of friends. Should your uncle, who I understand is your guardian, wish to speak to my husband, please inform him that he should not hesitate in approaching us.” Lady Susan paused and regarded her, and added: “In fact, it may be best if Darcy at least meets with your uncle, though Mr. Bingley will be present.”

  “Thank you, Lady Susan,” said Elizabeth. “I shall be certain to inform them.”

  “Excellent!”

  It was not long after that Elizabeth departed, though she went away with thoughts of the invitation she had received. Jane and Mr. Bingley would also be surprised, she thought. She could scarcely believe it herself.

  “Darcy informed me of his invitation today,” said Mr. Bingley that evening. Due to the events of that day, Elizabeth and the Bingleys had gathered at the Gardiners’ house for dinner that evening and to discuss the invitation. “But this civility of Lady Susan’s has me completely at sea, for I never would have guessed she would invite Elizabeth to stay at her husband’s estate.”

  “Do you suppose her husband will approve?” asked Uncle Gardiner.

  “I cannot imagine he would not,” replied Mr. Bingley. “Given everything Darcy has told me of his aunt and uncle, they share a close relationship. Lady Susan would speak to her husband before she proceeded.”

  Mr. Gardiner nodded, though his thoughts distracted him. “Then what do you mean to do regarding Lady Susan’s offer to include you all?”

  Mr. Bingley and Jane shared a look. “I believe Jane and I must speak of it. Our purpose in going to Pemberley is to look for an estate, and should we find one, the time we would spend at Lord Matlock’s estate would be better utilized preparing for our move.”

  “Yes, that is prudent,” replied Uncle Gardiner. “I still wonder about this invitation, though; I would never have expected Elizabeth to receive such attention.”

  “These are all people of the highest reputation, Edward,” said Aunt Gardiner. “There are few places I would more readily allow Lizzy to go to than Pemberley and the Matlock estate.”

  “Of that, we are agreed,” said Mr. Gardiner. “Though I appreciate Lady Susan’s gesture, they are on a level such that I should never dream of forbidding Lizzy when she has been invited by such persons. The advantages to you both will be immense, for acceptance by the Countess of Matlock is no small matter.”

  “But it is unfortunate Kitty shall miss this opportunity,” said Elizabeth, looking to her elder sister.

  “I believe I should reject it anyway,” replied Kitty, unconcerned with being denied her sisters’ good fortune. “Mr. Russell has been calling more frequently of late, and I should not like to go away from him now that I am coming to know him better.”

  This was a factor Elizabeth had not known, for she had not known that Kitty was so eager to receive the gentleman’s attentions. “Then I wish you the best, Kitty, for it seems to me that you have already lost your heart to this gentleman.”

  Kitty gave Elizabeth a shy smile, but she did not reply. Elizabeth turned back to her uncle who was looking at her with interest.

  “Well, Lizzy? You have yet been silent about your intentions in this matter. The initial invitation extended by Miss Darcy was for you. Do you mean to accept, or are you pining for Mr. Collins’s company?”

  All shared in the laughter this question provoked, for none of them could imagine desiring Mr. Collins’s company. Elizabeth, to whom her uncle had directed the question, shook her head and fixed him with a mock glare.

  “No, Uncle, I have no desire to be near Mr. Collins. At first, I was not certain it was proper, as I did not know if I should stay in a house with Mr. Darcy with naught but Georgiana’s companion as a chaperone.�
��

  “That difficulty appears to be nonexistent now,” said Mrs. Gardiner.

  Elizabeth nodded and said: “The other issue is I did not wish to impose. With Mr. Darcy’s invitation to my brother, I cannot suppose that my presence will be an imposition. Thus, I am eager to retain Georgiana’s friendship and will accept with gratitude.”

  “Then you have my permission,” said Mr. Gardiner. He turned to Mr. Bingley. “I see no need to approach Lord Matlock concerning his wife’s invitation, regardless of her suggestion. If you can arrange it, however, I should like to make your friend’s acquaintance.”

  “I shall speak with Darcy,” replied Mr. Bingley with a nod. “There should be no impediment, I am certain.”

  The only impediment against Darcy meeting Mr. Gardiner was with Darcy himself, a fact which he acknowledged, in the confines of his mind, without disguise. While Darcy was not eager to meet with those of the tradesman class, his friendship with Bingley should be enough proof that he did not look down on them.

  Darcy remained hesitant to meet with Mr. Gardiner, and the primary reason was his acquaintance with the man’s sister. Mrs. Bennet was, without a doubt, one of the silliest, loudest, unendurable women that Darcy had ever met, and the thought of meeting a man who was her brother was distasteful. If his character was similar to Mrs. Bennet’s, Darcy would have no choice but to continue an acquaintance with a man well below him in society and objectionable besides. Then again, if he followed through with his thoughts regarding Miss Bennet, an acquaintance with the man was inevitable anyway. Thus, he agreed with Bingley, deciding he may as well get on with it. Surely a man who had the esteem of Miss Elizabeth Bennet could not be too objectionable!

  “Buck up, Darcy,” said Bingley as they sat in the carriage on the way to Gracechurch Street. “Mr. Gardiner is everything gentlemanly, his position in society notwithstanding. If you can put up with my scrawling handwriting, my background in trade, not to mention my sister, you can endure Mr. Gardiner, for he possesses only one of these drawbacks.”