“She is welcome to stay for as long as needed. Please do not rush her recovery, Mr. Jones, for I would not wish her to suffer a relapse.”
“That is kind of you, Mr. Bingley. Miss Bennet will need to remain in bed for several days–even after the fever ends.”
“She will have everything she needs, sir.”
“I will return tomorrow to check on my patient. Goodnight, gentlemen.” Bingley rang for a servant and Dawson arrived to lead the apothecary to the door.
“I believe I will ask Caroline to check on Miss Bennet and ensure that Miss Elizabeth has everything she needs to provide for her sister’s care.” Darcy looked dubious at his friend’s words but did not share his thoughts.
After dressing for dinner, Darcy presented himself at Miss Bennet’s door. A relieved Elizabeth answered his knock. “Is everything well, Miss Elizabeth?”
Elizabeth hesitated to answer. She knew that being truthful would cause more hard feelings from Miss Bingley. However, Elizabeth was in need of assistance. “Mrs. Dawson was kind enough to send up cool water and rags to allow me to cool Jane’s brow. Unfortunately, the water is no longer cool, and there is no maid to assist in bringing more.”
Darcy was not surprised by Elizabeth’s words, nor did he intend to allow Miss Bingley’s poor manners to go undisclosed. “I will ensure that one of my footmen is stationed in the hall to assist you should you need help. Would you like me to have a maid sit with Miss Bennet so that you might join us for dinner? You cannot neglect your health if you intend to care for your sister.”
“I will not do so, Mr. Darcy, but I believe it would be best for me to request a tray so that I can stay with Jane and continue to try to bring down her fever.”
“Upon arriving downstairs, I will happily speak to Mrs. Dawson for you. I will ensure that more cold water and dinner are sent up to you.”
“Thank you for your assistance, Mr. Darcy. Enjoy your evening.”
“Should the opportunity present itself, please join us downstairs whenever possible.”
“Thank you, again. You are very considerate of our needs.”
“Have a pleasant evening, Miss Elizabeth. I hope Miss Bennet will show improvement soon.”
Darcy bowed and moved off down the hallway. Elizabeth smiled her thanks and remained holding the door until he disappeared from sight.
Trying to overcome the poor impression she had made earlier in the day, Miss Bingley made a fuss over him when Darcy entered the drawing room. He gave her the briefest of nods before moving to look out of the window. When the butler announced dinner, Darcy waited until the others left the room before speaking privately with Dawson. “Would you please ask Mrs. Dawson to send up cold water and dinner to Miss Bennet’s room?”
“Very well, sir.”
Darcy hurried to take his place at the table. The only remaining seat was beside Miss Bingley, forcing Darcy to listen to her endless compliments and complaints. When the meal finally ended, Darcy, Bingley, and Hurst lingered over their drinks. Hurst guzzled down his port and then poured another glass. After downing that as well, he leaned back in his chair. Soon, a soft snore emanated from his seat at the table.
“Do you think Miss Bennet is improved?”
“I fear not. I stopped by to see Miss Elizabeth on my way to dinner. She informed me that she was still battling to bring down Miss Bennet’s fever. Surprisingly, she did not have anyone to fetch her more cold water. I informed her that I would station a footman there to assist her, but I cannot imagine why no maid was assigned to help her.”
Bingley looked confused. “I did ask Caroline to check on her and to ensure that everything was as it should be.”
“Perhaps you should double check and be more specific.”
Bingley rang the bell and summoned the housekeeper. “Mrs. Dawson, did Miss Bingley give you any instructions regarding our guests and Miss Bennet’s care?”
The housekeeper would not meet his eyes. “Miss Bingley gave no instructions, sir. I asked if a maid should be assigned to assist Miss Elizabeth, but Miss Bingley did not feel it was necessary. I felt the need for a maid to run errands, but did not wish to do so without the mistress’s permission, sir.”
Feeling troubled, Bingley said, “Perhaps, we should join the ladies.”
Darcy nodded. Bingley shook his brother-in-law and announced that they were adjourning to the drawing room.
As the gentlemen crossed the hall, Miss Bingley’s whiney voice reached them. “It is bad enough that Miss Bennet took ill while at Netherfield, but now we are saddled with the impertinent Miss Eliza as well. We must convince Mr. Jones that Miss Bennet would recover much better at home than here.” Bingley frowned as he listened to his sister’s comments while Darcy’s irritation with his hostess grew.
Miss Bingley had barely finished speaking when the gentlemen entered the room. From the look of irritation on Charles’ face, she feared he might have overheard her comments.
Darcy seated himself in the chair next to the sofa that Charles chose. Sitting directly across from his sister, Charles stared at Caroline while asking, “What did you discover when you asked after Miss Bennet?”
“I do not understand your question, Charles.”
“I asked you to check with Miss Elizabeth and see what she needed to care for her sister. What did you discover?”
“I did not speak with Miss Eliza but did ask Mrs. Dawson to ensure things were as they should be.”
“What specific information did you give to the housekeeper?” Bingley prodded.
Miss Bingley stuttered a moment before settling on the perfect reply. “I know nothing about caring for the ill, so I did not give any instructions. Mrs. Dawson cares for the ill staff and tenants. She should know, better than I, what needs to be done.”
“If your education did not include caring for the ill or tenants, then it lacked something significant. The mistress of any estate–particularly a very large one–is responsible for the care of her staff and tenants,” murmured Darcy. “I would not consider anyone for a wife who could not handle those duties.”
Miss Bingley’s face flushed in embarrassment.
“Did you at least assign a maid to assist Miss Elizabeth?” Charles asked.
“Charles, you are aware that we are still short-staffed; no one can be spared to help the Bennet sisters. I am sure they are used to doing for themselves, as I know they employ only a few servants.”
“Bingley, I would suggest that you talk to the leasing agent. I am sure he could recommend someone who might be able to assist Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth. Alternatively, perhaps Miss Elizabeth is aware of someone who would be suited and needs the work.”
“That is an excellent idea, Darcy. Perhaps we should check on Miss Bennet and speak to Miss Elizabeth.”
“You need not bother, Charles. I will take care of this.”
“Caroline, you admitted that you know nothing about this area. Therefore, I believe it would be best for me to attend to finding the necessary help to ensure that Miss Bennet has what she needs to recover.”
With that, Darcy and Bingley rose and exited the drawing room. As they mounted the steps, they heard the crash of breaking china–the usual sign of Miss Bingley’s uncontrolled temper.
Leaving the cloth on Jane’s forehead, Elizabeth responded to the knock at the door. She was startled to see Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. “Good evening, gentlemen.”
“Miss Elizabeth, how is Miss Bennet this evening?” The almost pleading look on Bingley’s face caused Elizabeth to smile. She was glad to report that her sister’s fever was lower, but not gone. “That is excellent news. My sister informed me that we are short-staffed and that is why a maid was not assigned to assist you. Mr. Darcy suggested that perhaps you know of someone in the neighborhood who might like the position of helping with Miss Bennet’s care. If she performs well, there may be a more permanent position for her.”
Elizabeth thought for a momen
t. “I believe young Sally Foster is of an age for employment as a maid. Her parents are tenants at Longbourn. She is a bit shy but is a pleasant girl with a sweet demeanor. Sally would be an asset to any home.”
“If you would write a note to her, Miss Elizabeth, we can deliver it early tomorrow morning. Perhaps Miss Foster could start the same day.”
“Once Jane is asleep, I will write the note and ask your footman to deliver it to you, Mr. Darcy. Mrs. Dawson knows where the Fosters live. Thank you, gentlemen, for your care and concern. I greatly appreciate your inviting me to stay and care for Jane.”
“I am sorry that your sister is ill, but we are delighted to have you both with us,” said Bingley with a bright smile. “I hope your sister will be much improved by the morning. We will check on you again then. Good night, Miss Elizabeth.”
Darcy lingered as Bingley headed for his chambers. “Are you well, Miss Elizabeth? Will you be able to get some rest tonight when your sister does?”
Elizabeth gave Darcy a warm smile. “I am well, sir, and I promise to rest as much as possible. Perhaps if Sally comes, I will be able to take a brief walk tomorrow and get a quick nap if necessary.”
“Please, no matter the time, send Chase to me if you should need anything during the night.”
Elizabeth blushed at the care he showed her. “I do not have the words to thank you for your thoughtfulness. Good night, Mr. Darcy.”
“Sweet dreams, Miss Elizabeth.”
At his words, the blush on her face deepened.
Care for the Caregiver
Early the next morning, Elizabeth appeared in the dining room. Thankfully, the only person present was Mr. Darcy. He stood at her entrance. “Good morning, Miss Elizabeth. How is Miss Bennet this morning?” Though he was concerned for her sister’s illness, Darcy was more concerned for Elizabeth, as dark shadows ringed her lovely eyes.
“Jane’s fever broke a little over an hour ago. She is sleeping peacefully at the moment.”
Darcy moved to hold a chair for her beside his place. “You must have had a difficult night. Please allow me to fix you a plate.”
“You need not wait on me, sir. I–”
Interrupting her, Darcy said, “You cared for your sister throughout the night. Please allow me to take care of you for a moment.”
Too tired to argue, Elizabeth merely said, “Thank you, Mr. Darcy.”
“What may I get you?”
Elizabeth pondered the selection on the sideboard. “A small portion of eggs, a slice of ham, a muffin, and tea, please.”
Darcy fixed her plate and set it before her on the table before returning to prepare a cup of tea. He set down her cup and resumed his seat. “I am pleased that your sister is improving. The note to Miss Foster was delivered at seven this morning. If we receive her reply soon, I would like to accompany you on a brief walk, allowing you to get some fresh air. Then you should rest while Miss Foster tends to your sister.”
“I believe fresh air would do wonders for me. I would enjoy that. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, Mr. Darcy.”
The two of them enjoyed a pleasant conversation as they broke their fast. It was briefly interrupted by Mrs. Dawson, who announced the arrival of Sally Foster. Before Elizabeth could develop a response, Darcy said, “Mrs. Dawson, will you please review Miss Bennet’s care needs with Sally? I am going to escort Miss Elizabeth on a walk and then insist that she rest. Can you and the new maid handle things for a few hours?”
“Certainly, sir. I believe your suggestions for Miss Elizabeth are just what she needs. We will take good care of Miss Bennet. Don’t you worry, miss.”
Typically, having someone speak for her would annoy Elizabeth, but instead she experienced a warm feeling in the pit of her stomach. At Longbourn, no one except Jane worried over her.
“Oh, Mrs. Dawson. Would you please ask someone to bring down Miss Elizabeth’s pelisse and bonnet so that we may take our walk when we are finished eating?”
“Yes, sir, right away.”
William and Elizabeth were fortunate enough to finish their meal before any of the others arrived in the dining room. They departed through the terrace doors, where Darcy offered his arm to his companion. The morning air was crisp and the dew on the grass sparkled in the sun of a bright new day. They wandered through the formal gardens in silence. When they reached the end of the pathway, they stepped into the meadow. The trees on the border of the field retained some of their leaves, but those that had fallen crunched underfoot. They continued their ramble until they reached the large pond on the garden’s eastern edge.
“Would you care to sit for a moment?” asked Darcy as he gestured to the fallen tree, out of which a bench had been carved.
Elizabeth nodded and took a seat. She tipped her head back and turned her face to the sun. Despite the cold air, she enjoyed the warmth of the golden sun, which heated her cheeks. A soft sigh escaped Elizabeth, causing Darcy to chuckle. Without looking at him, Elizabeth asked, “What causes your laughter, Mr. Darcy?”
“Just a random thought. I would not wish to offend you.”
“I believe we are well-enough acquainted with each other that I will not take offense.”
“Your enjoyment of the outdoors brought to mind a wood nymph. Your size and coloring and the way you basked in the sun made the comparison to those mythical creatures very natural.”
Elizabeth never changed positions, but a broad smile appeared on her face. “I am not offended, Mr. Darcy. Rather, I will thank you for the compliment, as nymphs were considered to be quite beautiful.”
“That is, indeed, why the comparison is very apt,” he agreed. Darcy noted with pleasure the blush that suffused her face. His smile grew.
They sat in silence as Darcy enjoyed the beauty before him. Elizabeth attempted to hide a yawn, but Darcy noticed it. He stood and offered his hand to his companion. “Let us return to the house. You need to rest so that you will be refreshed to return to your sister.”
Elizabeth planned to ask for a few more minutes, but another yawn prevented her from speaking. She opened her eyes to see Mr. Darcy standing before her with his hand outstretched. Smiling up at him, she placed her hand in his and allowed him to pull her to her feet. Darcy then wrapped her arm around his elbow and tucked it close to his side. Together, they strolled back to the house. The hall was empty except for a footman. Darcy escorted Elizabeth up to her room. He bowed over her hand and wished her a pleasant sleep.
After leaving Elizabeth, Darcy went to Bingley’s library and settled himself at the table in the corner. He was not visible from the door, but should Miss Bingley enter, there was a door to the balcony that he could use. From there, steps led to the gardens. When residing with Miss Bingley, be it at Pemberley or there at Netherfield, Darcy made it a point to never enter a room that had only one exit. He did not doubt that Miss Bingley would attempt a compromise should the opportunity present itself.
Darcy was able to work for several hours without interruption. He heard Miss Bingley enter the room and assumed that she gazed about. When she did not see him, he heard her sigh of frustration and the firm tap-tap-tap of her heels as she walked away.
Elizabeth slept through lunch before refreshing herself and returning to Jane. She spent the afternoon with her sister and then joined the family for supper. When Elizabeth entered the drawing room, Miss Bingley frowned and turned away without speaking. Mr. Darcy’s expression gave Elizabeth pause. She wondered what Miss Bingley had done. Caroline, knowing that she had not yet improved Darcy’s opinion of her handling of their ill guest, placed a smile on her face and asked, “How is dear Miss Bennet? Is she much improved?”
Elizabeth knew that Caroline’s interest was insincere, mainly because she kept her eyes on Mr. Darcy, but she answered politely. “Jane’s fever has fortunately subsided, but she is weak and suffering from a sore throat and a headache. It is kind of you to ask.”
“I do hope she will be well enough to return h
ome soon. I am sure she will feel much better when restored to her family.”
The rest had restored Elizabeth’s sense of humor. “I must beg to differ, Miss Bingley. Jane is much better off in the quiet of Netherfield. However, we shall endeavor to not outstay our welcome.”
Caroline’s lips thinned in a frown. Before she could speak, Bingley said, “You are both welcome to stay as long as needed. You are delightful company and I hope to spend some time with Miss Bennet before she departs.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bingley, you are most kind.”
The butler announced dinner and Darcy stepped forward to offer his arm to Elizabeth. Bingley smiled at his friend, but Miss Bingley’s lips nearly disappeared as her frown deepened. Seeing her look, Bingley offered his arm to his sister. He then led the others to the dining room.
Darcy pulled out Elizabeth’s chair and seated her at the table. He took the chair beside hers, which was also next to Miss Bingley. Though his hostess attempted to dominate his conversation, Darcy frequently turned to Elizabeth to speak with her. Miss Bingley raised her voice slightly and spoke of the delights of the London season, knowing this topic would result in Miss Elizabeth’s exclusion from the conversation. When the ladies left the gentlemen to their port, Elizabeth excused herself to check on Jane. She stayed away for thirty minutes to allow time for the men to return. Elizabeth had no desire to spend time alone with Miss Bingley and her sister. No doubt, they would spend their time looking down on her and speaking only to each other.
As the gentlemen crossed the hallway to rejoin the ladies, Darcy caught a flash of color from the corner of his eye. Looking up, he observed Elizabeth poised at the top of the stairs. Whispering something to Bingley, Darcy waited until the other gentlemen had continued on to the drawing room. Darcy moved to the bottom of the stairs and watched as Elizabeth descended. He held out his hand to her as she neared the bottom. Pausing on the last step, Elizabeth looked at her companion wonderingly.
A Turn in Their Dance Page 7