The Harvest Ball

by Lily Bernard

  “Of course, you are correct and we will see the Bingleys as soon as we return to Pemberley. Georgiana is very fond of Jane and Charles and I know they will be missed, but she will understand their reasons for remaining at home.”

  “We are going to the modiste in the morning for our final fittings. She looks so lovely in her gown; when we were at the modiste last week, I nearly cried when I saw her looking so elegant and grown up. The dress is so beautiful and I believe she feels more confident when she wears it. I want to be completely honest with you, we both heard some cutting remarks while we were there. Some of London’s high society matrons were talking about our marriage and the disparity of our stations in the ton. I knew Georgiana was upset by what she heard but I assured her that no matter what others say, you and I have a marriage built on love, trust and respect. I believe that Georgiana will choose very carefully when the time comes.”

  “Why did you not tell me that some horrid old cows were rude to you? I will make sure they never set foot in this house or Matlock House ever again. Who were they?”

  “I did not know the women and their remarks had no effect on me. Please do not be distressed by anything those ‘horrid old cows’ said about me. We love each other and nothing anyone says can ever change that. Now, it is time for bed; I have an early appointment with the modiste.”

  As they got into bed, Darcy embraced his wife and kissed her hair. “You never cease to amaze me, my dearest. You are so strong and so true to yourself; I am so happy I had the good sense to marry you.”

  “You had the good sense, what about my good sense?” Their lips met for a moment and they were both smiling as they fell asleep in each other’s arms.

  The day of Georgiana’s Ball finally arrived. Lady Matlock sent several of her servants to supplement the staff of Darcy House and they all worked hard to make the house sparkle and shine. The flower arrangements were the most beautiful Elizabeth had ever seen and she made one last visit to the kitchen before preparing for the evening. She knew that the food would be delicious if their aromas were any indication. Lady Matlock had used her influence and convinced the most sought-after musicians to play for her niece’s introduction into London’s highest social circle.

  At last, Hannah had finished helping her dress, styling her hair and closing the clasp on the beautiful pearl necklace Darcy had given his wife for her birthday. Elizabeth descended the stairs of Darcy House and saw her husband waiting for her near the front door. He looked up at her with adoration in his eyes and she smiled as she slowly walked toward her husband. She wore a beautiful cream-colored dress with a gold lace overlay; there were cream colored roses placed among her curls and decorating her satin slippers. She knew she had never looked better.

  Darcy kissed her gloved hand and said quietly, “Elizabeth, you look like a goddess, but I am afraid you must go back upstairs and change your dress.”

  “Change my dress? You do not like it?” Elizabeth asked in a panicked voice and on the verge of tears.

  “No, my love, you look stunning, but I wish you would change your dress for two reasons.”

  “I am waiting, Mr. Darcy.” she relaxed and tapped her toes in mock impatience now that she knew her husband was teasing her.

  “If you wear that dress, I cannot guarantee that I will not ravish you in the middle of the ballroom before the night is over. Secondly, you look so beautiful that I must remind you that Georgiana must be the center of attention tonight.”

  Before she could tease her husband in return, Mrs. Winters joined them in the front entry hall. They all looked up to see Georgiana coming slowly down the stairs. She looked like an angel; her beautiful blonde hair was pinned up in a sophisticated style and there were small pearls placed throughout her curls. Her dress was a very pale pink and the white lace overlay was also decorated with pearls. As she moved toward them, Elizabeth and Darcy knew they were about to enter a new phase of their lives.

  “Georgie, you look so beautiful, what has happened to my silly little sister? You know the girl who only wanted to ride her pony and make mud pies?”

  “Do you really like my dress? Elizabeth and Aunt Patricia helped me choose it. Is it too much with all the pearls?”

  “You are a beautiful young woman and there is not one thing I would change about you or the way you look tonight.”

  “Thank you, William, I am so glad you like my dress.”

  “Georgie, I love everything about you every day. Tonight, you look extraordinarily beautiful.”

  Mrs. Winters approached the trio. “Excuse me sir, madam, I believe I hear a carriage outside. Your guests are beginning to arrive and you should form the receiving line before anyone enters. Everything is ready in the ballroom and the musicians are warming up. If I may say so, Mrs. Darcy and Miss Georgiana look absolutely beautiful.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Winters, we will line up in a moment. I think we are all relishing the quiet while it lasts,” Darcy responded. He turned away from his wife and sister, moved closer to the housekeeper and said quietly, “Does everyone know what actions to take if a certain uninvited guest arrives?”

  “Yes sir, everyone is ready to act, if necessary.”

  “William, we should follow Mrs. Winters’ advice; I can also hear our guests beginning to arrive.” Her husband nodded and took both women by the arm and led them to the spot where they would be greeting their guests. Darcy was first, then Elizabeth and finally, Georgiana Darcy making her debut in London society. Elizabeth looked at Darcy with a question in her eyes.

  “I will tell you all about it later; it is nothing to be worried about. Let me just say, no one will do anything to spoil Georgiana’s special night.” Elizabeth smiled and was determined to forget what she had just heard and enjoy the evening.

  Georgiana was relieved when the Fitzwilliams were among the first to arrive. Her aunt and uncle were very dear to her and she loved Richard as a brother. She relied on their familiar faces to maintain her composure and boost her confidence.

  Despite her misgivings, Georgiana was beautiful and poised as she greeted her guests at the Ball. The temperature outside was well below freezing but nothing could prevent London’s finest from witnessing the debut of a young woman from one of the wealthiest families in England.

  Darcy danced the first dance with his sister and had never been prouder of the young woman on his arm. While she danced the second set with her cousin, she could sense everyone’s eyes were still on her. She began to feel anxious about what would happen when her set with Richard ended. She hoped that other men would ask her to dance; no debutante wished to stand against the wall watching other young women enjoying the dancing at her Ball.

  When the second set ended, Georgiana need not have worried, she was besieged by a long line of young men for a place on her dance card. By the time the party was over, she had danced every dance. She ate supper with a large crowd of young men all vying for an opportunity to sit beside her or bring her something to eat and drink. She danced the supper set with a young man named David Arlington and he escorted her into the meal. “May I prepare a plate for you, Miss Darcy?”

  “Thank you, that would be most kind of you.” When he returned to the table, David Arlington was carrying two plates of roast chicken, potatoes and vegetables. “I hope you approve of my selections?”

  “Thank you, sir, you have chosen all of my favorites,” she smiled as she spoke to her new acquaintance.

  When their last guests had departed early the next morning, Elizabeth, Darcy and Georgiana were all exhausted. “How are you feeling, little one? You have had quite an eventful night! I believe you danced every dance.”

  “I am so happy this night is behind me. I did enjoy dancing all night, but I liked some dances more than others.” Before she could explain her comments, she added, “Lizzy, please allow me to thank you again for all your help. I am so happy you are my sister and I know I can always rely on you and William for support. Pray excuse me, I am dreadfully tired. I will see yo
u both in the morning, or I should say, later this morning.” Georgiana embraced her sister before turning into her brother’s arms.

  “Good night, little one. We are very proud of you.”

  Before Elizabeth and Darcy followed Georgiana up the stairs, Mrs. Winters approached them, “Mr. Darcy, may I have a moment of your time?”

  “Certainly.” Darcy turned to his wife, “I will join you upstairs in a moment.”

  “Good night Mrs. Winters and thank you for all your help. Miss Darcy’s party was a huge success and we are all very grateful. So many of the guests commented on all the delicious food; particularly the puddings and cakes that were served for dessert.”

  “I am happy you are pleased, madam, good night.”

  Darcy followed his housekeeper into the drawing room, “what happened?”

  “You were right to warn the staff, sir. Lady Catherine tried to push her way into the party. Happily, when she attempted to enter, the music was very loud and no one at the party could hear her.”

  “What did she say? Tell me everything.”

  “What did she not say? She began by criticizing the butler, the footmen and me. When she tried to move toward the ballroom, she raised her cane to strike one of the footmen who had blocked her path and she was physically restrained, as you asked. She began screaming about you and Mrs. Darcy and how you have ruined Miss Darcy’s life by marrying…”

  “Go on, I need to hear everything.”

  “Needless to say, Lady Catherine is most displeased with Mrs. Darcy. That was all she said before Watkins and Jackson lifted her and carried her down the front steps and put her back in her carriage.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Winters. I appreciate your honesty. I am very pleased that everyone carried out my directions. If it is at all possible, I would appreciate your discretion in this matter. I will tell Mrs. Darcy what happened tonight but I see no reason for my sister to find out.”

  “I have already spoken to the staff about keeping what they saw here tonight to themselves.”

  “Good night, Mrs. Winters and thank you again.”

  “Good night, sir.” The housekeeper walked back toward the servants’ quarters as Darcy climbed the stairs shaking his head. He could not believe that his aunt would dare to enter a party to which she had not been invited. He knew he had to tell Elizabeth, but the news could wait until they were well rested.

  After his conversation with the housekeeper, he went upstairs and prepared for bed. He joined his wife in her chambers, and they sat beside each other on the settee.

  “Elizabeth, you have amazed me once again. You planned the most wonderful night for Georgiana as if you had done it many times before. Thank you, my love. Georgiana will never forget how special her debut was.”

  “I love her as I love my other sisters. There is nothing I would not do for her and Aunt Patricia’s help was invaluable. Why did Mrs. Winters wish to speak to you after the party?”

  “I was going to tell you after we had a good night’s sleep, but I should have realized that you always know when I am trying to keep something from you.” Darcy paused and took his wife’s hand. “I was afraid that my Aunt Catherine would try to barge in and ruin Georgiana’s big night. I told Mrs. Winters to inform the footmen that if she did try to intrude, she should be unceremoniously carried out of the house. Mrs. Winters told me that my aunt tried to push her way in and tried to strike some of our staff with her cane when they prevented her from doing so. Several of the footmen were needed to pick her up and put her back in her carriage. All is well, and Georgiana will never know of the disturbance.”

  She caressed her husband’s cheek. “You think of everything, my love. Thank you for keeping us all safe and not allowing anyone or anything to spoil our sister’s party. Did Lady Catherine say anything when she barged in?”

  “Nothing we have not heard before. She came in spewing her vitriol and she would not leave on her own accord. I will speak to my Uncle Hugh tomorrow. There is something significantly wrong with my aunt and we must take steps to prevent her from saying or doing anything that could injure our family.”

  “I take it to mean that your aunt said some very unflattering words about me. Am I correct?”

  “What my aunt does or does not say should be of no concern to you, my love. They are the ravings of a vicious, bitter woman who has lost control of her senses.” Darcy kissed his wife’s hand, “are you happy now that you know everything?”

  Elizabeth nodded, “I appreciate you telling me the truth.” She paused, “I feel sorry for your aunt.”

  “Sorry?” Darcy asked incredulously. “Whatever for?”

  “We have so much love and happiness in our lives and she has gone about destroying everything good in hers. I know she is unkind, but I still feel sorry for her.”

  “That is because you are a kind, forgiving woman. You are everything my aunt is not. Did you enjoy yourself tonight?”

  “Yes, I was very happy everything turned out so well. I am curious about Georgiana’s last comment; she said she enjoyed some dances more than others. Do you think she already has feelings for one of the young men on her dance card?”

  “Please, Elizabeth, I cannot fall asleep with that thought on my mind.”

  “Well, perhaps I can clear your mind by offering you something better to think about,” Elizabeth teased as she continued to caress her husband’s face.

  “Did I tell you how much I love you, Mrs. Darcy?”

  “Mr. Darcy, your secret is safe with me.”

  Chapter 15

  Darcy House was very quiet the following morning as all the party goers slept late. By the time three very tired people descended the stairs, it was almost midday. They knew that many of the young men who lined up to dance with Georgiana would also call upon her today. They expected to receive the first callers by the early afternoon and were not disappointed. One young man after another, presented their cards at the door. When they were admitted to the drawing room, they saw Georgiana surrounded by other eager young men.

  Darcy was exhausted and had a fierce scowl on his face. He was in no mood to entertain these young men who dared to show an interest in his sister. Elizabeth attempted to ease his obvious disapproval of every young man who dared to call on the beautiful Georgiana Darcy. She frequently touched his arm, reminding him that no matter how he felt about the situation, these gentlemen were their guests.

  Elizabeth knew her husband was upset and planned to speak to him as soon as their guests departed. Later that afternoon, Elizabeth stood outside her husband’s study and could hear him pacing and mumbling under his breath. Her knock was answered with a brusque, “Enter!”

  She walked into the room and went to her husband and embraced him. “What was that for?”

  “Do I need a reason to embrace the man I love?”

  “I know you are here to tell me something and I would appreciate it if you would just come out with it,” he said impatiently.

  “I can easily see how watching Georgiana entertain her callers gives you pain. William, at some point in the next year or two or three, Georgiana will fall in love with someone wonderful. There is no point in pacing and scowling every day until that day comes. When she is ready, we will not be able to stop her from wanting to marry. When we fell in love, no one or nothing could stop our feelings. I am not happy about her leaving us one day, but we must be realistic.”

  “I know what you are saying is the truth, I just do not wish her to be taken in by some rake or fortune hunter.”

  “I think Georgiana will know who loves her, not her thirty-thousand-pound dowry. She learned a valuable lesson in Ramsgate and is growing up. We must let her know just how much we trust her and value her feelings. You told me you were going to see Lord Matlock today to discuss your aunt’s behavior.”

  “That is a good idea. It is past time to do something about her. Her vitriol is hurting the entire family.”

  “I will see you later for dinner.”

  “
Thank you for coming in here and trying to make me feel better. Your kindness never ceases to amaze me.”

  “You are very easy to be kind to. I have already sent her a note, but if you see Aunt Patricia, please thank her again for everything she did. I could not have planned such a successful party without her.” Darcy kissed his wife and prepared to leave the house.

  Despite the cold, Darcy decided to walk the short distance to Matlock House and he was soon seated in his uncle’s study. “I am so glad to see you! Georgiana’s party was well done. My little niece looked so lovely, as did your beautiful wife.”

  “Thank you, uncle. Georgiana and Elizabeth are very grateful for Aunt Patricia’s help. Last night’s party is actually why I am here.”

  “Did something happen that I was not aware of?”

  “Pray allow me to start at the beginning. We invited Aunt Catherine to our wedding and her reply was a thick letter accusing me of causing Anne’s death and disgracing the family name by marrying Elizabeth. She failed to acknowledge that Anne had already passed away by the time I recovered enough to return to England. I only read the first page of her cruel accusations and then I threw it in the fire. I sent my aunt an announcement of Ben’s birth which she returned to me unopened.”

  “So far, it sounds like typical Catherine behavior. If you do not follow her commands, she becomes very angry. There must be something else.”

  “When I received the note unopened, I made peace with the idea of never seeing or hearing from my aunt again. However, knowing her as I do, when we came to London, I put some security measures in place. I instructed my household staff that if Lady Catherine tried to enter my home uninvited, they were to physically carry her out.”

  “Darcy, your own aunt! My sister!”

  “My fear was that she would try to disrupt and ruin Georgiana’s party. She must have known that most of the ton was invited and would be at Darcy House last night. Before any guests arrived, Mrs. Winters assured me that everyone knew what to do. As you are aware, the party was a huge success from start to finish.