Before he could reply, Georgianna whispered to him, “Brother, may I invite Mrs. Gardiner to tea. I long to hear more of her reminisces of mother.”
Darcy was an indulgent brother and could deny his sister nothing that was in his power to give her. Georgianna was a child when their mother died and had so few memories to remember her by.
Darcy nodded his head and Georgianna clapped her hands with glee. She approached Mrs. Gardiner.
“Mrs. Gardiner, my brother and I would be delighted and honored if you would join us for tea at our home. If you have no other fixed appointment, will tomorrow at 3 o’clock meet with your approval?” she asked eagerly.
At first shocked, but very aware of the honor bestowed upon her to be invited to such a great man’s house, she replied “I have no other fixed appointments and I would be honored Miss Darcy, however, my niece Lizzie is presently visiting with us.”
“Oh,” Georgianna replied “she is very welcome as well.”
“On behalf of myself and my niece I accept your very kind invitation.”
With his business and Georgianna’s purchases completed, the Darcy’s took their leave.
The siblings were quiet on the ride back to their townhouse. Georgianna’s thoughts were of the conversation she had with Mrs. Gardiner, and Darcy’s were occupied with the great pleasure of seeing the luscious Miss Elizabeth Bennett again and furthering his amorous ambitions
Chapter 6
Mrs. Gardiner went directly to her niece’s room as soon as she arrived home. Knocking softly she called “Lizzie are you awake? May I come in?”
Lizzie sat up in the bed and responded “Of course Aunt.” Mrs. Gardiner entered the room and Lizzie could ascertain at once by her excited countenance that something had occurred.
“What is it Aunt? Is all well with Uncle?” Lizzie asked hastily.
Mrs. Gardiner sat down on the bed next to Lizzie and exclaimed “Oh such good news! We have been invited to take tea with Miss Darcy tomorrow at her townhouse in Mayfair.”
Momentarily stunned, Lizzie finally asked “How did this come to pass Aunt? I do not recall your having an acquaintance with a Miss Darcy.”
“We were introduced today for the first time. Miss Darcy came with her brother to your Uncle’s warehouse. He to secure an introduction from your Uncle to purchase one of Longbourn’s horses and she to shop for silks. While the brother and your Uncle conducted business, I assisted Miss Darcy in her purchases. I told her I grew up in Lambton, a village that is only 5 miles from their great estate called Pemberley and I remembered both of her parents quite well. The poor child never knew her mother and begged me for anything I could remember about Mrs. Darcy. She was so grateful that with her brother’s permission she invited us to tea tomorrow to continue our conversation.”
“But Aunt, I do not know her. I do not think it proper for me to go with you,” Lizzie protested. She could not believe this turn of events or tell her Aunt that her sole purpose of coming to town was to avoid Mr. Darcy and the dastardly man followed her. Will I never be free of him!? Lizzie shuddered.
“Lizzie what has you so distressed?”
“They are not of our sphere Aunt. I became acquainted with Mr. Darcy when he accompanied his friend to Longbourn to purchase a horse. The man is very proud and looks down on all beneath him. On first being introduced to him he spoke not one world to me the entire time; he only stared at me. I have no doubt he was looking to find fault.”
Mrs. Gardiner peered closely at her niece “Be that as it may Lizzie, they paid us a great compliment and honor to be invited to their home. As you say, we of not of their sphere, but if the connection can further your Uncle’s interests, then I am most definitely inclined to go. I insist on you accompanying me. Miss Darcy is a bit shy but a sweet girl nonetheless. I do not wish to disappoint her. The business connection to the name of Darcy can only enhance your Uncle’s business prospects. What say you Lizzie?”
Lizzie sighed and hesitated before answering her Aunt. She was attempting to avoid Mr. Darcy at all cost because she could not trust herself with his forward attentions. She knew he would not cease until she was completely ruined. She did not want to disappoint the Gardiners who were more parental figures to her then her own parents.
“Very well Aunt, I will go with you tomorrow, but please do not leave me alone with that odious man. You know me to well to know that I have no qualms in speaking my mind to him and thus any chance of a connection Uncle might have hoped for will be dashed in a moment.”
Mrs. Gardiner’s face glowed with happiness and she clapped her hands.
“Excellent. Thank you Lizzie. I do not believe that the outing will disappoint.
Lizzie was happy that she could please her Aunt but inwardly she had reservations. I must endeavor not to be alone with that man. I do not put it past him to try and ravish me in his own home with both our relatives present or for myself to be able to resist him.
Chapter 7
During dinner that evening with the Gardiners, Lizzie related to her Uncle all of the particulars of her father’s return and her conversation with him.
“I was at first very happy to see him. I thought he had returned for good and could actually go back to my former life. He then informed me that he and Mr. Ogilvy were only visiting for the day and the purpose of the visit was that my Uncle Phillips request to appease Mr. Collins that my father is alive and well and the master of Longbourn still. As you know Uncle, Mr. Collins is the heir to Longbourn. I cannot begin to tell you how distraught and upset I was when I realized his return was not to see his family. He acts as if we do not exist! He and Mr. Ogilvy planned to journey to London today. In fact, he is probably in town now as we speak. Their stay shall be of a short duration as they plan to journey to Mr. Ogilvy’s estate in Scotland.”
“What is to be done Uncle?” Lizzie pleaded. “I cannot proceed in this manner. Sometimes the burden of caring for the estate, and my mother and sisters is too much! I resent him for his indolence and lack of caring towards us. I believe I have been a dutiful daughter but the responsibilities weigh too heavy upon me.”
Mr. Gardiner listened quietly without interrupting until Lizzie was finished speaking.
“I am so very sorry my dear that this situation has been thrust upon you. It is not fair or just that you must shoulder the responsibilities of caring for the estate and your family that rightly belong to your father.”
Mr. Gardiner sat silently for a few moments gently drumming his fingers on the table; something he did when he was in deep thought. He was shocked at Thomas Bennett’s behavior.
“Are you certain he is town now?” Mr. Gardiner asked.
“Oh yes”, Lizzie replied. “He would not even stay the night at Longbourn. Mr.Ogilvy has a house in town but I know not where.”
“I know where his home is Lizzie and tomorrow I am going there to confront my brother. Something must be done, though quite honestly, I do not know what. Allow me to speak with him before I can advise what decisions can be made.”
Somewhat relieved, Lizzie thanked her Uncle and excused herself from the table.
“Please forgive me for retiring so early, but I am quite tired from the trip.”
Her Aunt Gardiner also stood and said “I will accompany you upstairs Lizzie to ensure that you have all that you need. I will return shortly Edward.”
Mr. Gardiner stood as both ladies left the room.
Mrs. Gardiner looped her arm through Lizzie’s as they climbed the stairs and entered the bedroom Lizzie regularly stayed in on her visits to their home.
“I believe all is order for you Lizzie and I will summon my maid to help you retire.”
“Thank you Aunt. Uncle Edward and you are too kind. I appreciate all that you do for me and my family.”
“It is our pleasure Lizzie. You know that Jane and you are favorite with you Uncle and myself. Please do not despair. Your Uncle will see your father tomorrow and if anyone can work upon him, it is my husband. Ple
ase get a good night’s rest and I will see you in the morning when you break your fast.”
“Thank you Aunt. I do not know what I would do without the two of you and your good sense and guidance.”
“Goodnight Lizzie. Sleep well.”
“Goodnight Aunt.”
e and Mr. Ogilvy
Chapter 8
Mr. Gardiner arose early the following morning before any of the household was awake. After breaking his fast, he left the house and hailed a hackney to take him across town to Mr. Ogilvy’s home. He had apprised his wife of his plan to depart early the night before to meet with his brother before Thomas had the opportunity to leave the house. He realized it was early for calling, but he was determined not to miss the opportunity to help Lizzie with her dilemma and he knew the only way to accomplish this was to confront his brother.
The knocker was on the door when he approached the house. The butler answered swiftly and was surprised that someone was calling earlier then what was deemed proper visiting hours.
Mr. Gardiner handed the butler his card and stated “I am here to see my brother Thomas Bennett. I believe he is a guest of your master.”
“Yes sir,” replied the butler disdainfully. “But Mr. Bennet is not down as yet and is still abed.”
“Nevertheless,” Mr. Gardiner stated firmly “see him I must on a matter of great importance. Please make him aware that I am waiting and expect his immediate appearance.”
Mr. Gardiner was determined not to be turned away from the house, especially by a snooty butler, until he spoke with Thomas Bennett.
“Very good sir,” replied the butler coolly, “If you would kindly wait in the drawing room, I will convey your wishes to Mr. Bennet.”
He was escorted to the drawing room, where he sat himself down on a divan, and prepared to wait.
I will wait all day if I must Thomas. You cannot avoid me and will no longer shirk your responsibilities.
Mr. Gardiner was angry. In fact, he was very angry with Thomas Bennet. Initially, he was shocked by what Lizzie had related the night before. But as the situation prayed on his mind, he felt himself becoming furious. Furious at Thomas for his indolent, uncaring attitude toward his family. Yes, his sister Fanny was a silly ignorant woman, but even she did not deserve this harsh treatment. And his nieces! Especially Lizzie! He knew that except for Lizzie and Jane, his brother never bothered to bestir himself from his bookroom to educate or take the three younger girls in hand. The two youngest, Lydia and Kitty, were especially silly and wild without a sensible thought in their heads. The middle daughter Mary preferred sermonizing and playing the pianoforte, and poorly at that. He derived great amusement from watching his wife and these three daughters make embarrassing spectacles of themselves in public.
While he was musing on these thoughts, Thomas Bennet entered the room wearing a banyan over his night clothes. He approached Mr. Gardiner with his hand outstretched.
“Edward, I am most pleased to see you. But what is this urgent business that summons me from my bed?”
Mr. Gardiner sighed and shook Mr. Bennet’s hand but with little vigor.
“Let us sit down and discuss the situation, as I assure you it is urgent.”
Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrows in question but did as he was bidden.
After Mr. Bennet seated himself in a chair across from his brother, Mr. Gardiner leaned forward with his hands on his knees.
“Thomas, this entire situation is not only intolerable but also unfair to Lizzie. She keenly feels the strain of so much responsibility in caring for your family and Longbourn. I am shocked and deeply disappointed in you. Lizzie related to me all that occurred when you returned home but only for the day. The situation cannot continue in this manner. Do not think that I am not aware of your feelings towards my sister. I am aware that Fanny is not your equal in any respect, that she is loud, crude, and ridiculous at times. I know that she compromised you into marriage but your actions are beyond the pale. Please enlighten me as to what is to occur as Lizzie cannot continue in this fashion any longer.”
Mr. Bennet sat quietly for a moment with his hands folded in his lap. “Lizzie has previously conveyed her feelings to me and I have given it much thought.”
He then proceeded to outline his plan for the future of Longbourn and his family.
Mr. Gardiner sat shocked and silent. He attempted to dissuade Bennet from such a course of action but to no avail. He finally took his leave and hailed a hackney to take him to his office at his warehouses.
He intended to discuss all with his wife and niece after dinner. He saw no reason to cause them distress and ruin their visit with the Darcy’s. Lord knows Lizzie was going to be enraged when she heard what her father had decided for Longbourn, herself and her family.
Chapter 9
The time to depart for tea the next day came much too quickly for Lizzie. She spent half the night thinking of reasons why she could not go but came up with no reasonable solution and the other half of the night she spent thinking of the very handsome Mr. Darcy and the thought of seeing him again. She was torn between her emotions.
The Gardiner carriage pulled up to the Darcy townhouse in Mayfair and Lizzie stared in awe at the building before her. It was the largest house on the street, reaching three stories high with a beige sandstone façade. Intricate iron work surrounded the house and she could spy a garden off to the side.
“What do you think Lizzie?” asked Mrs. Gardiner closely eyeing her niece.
“It is beautiful” whispered Lizzie.
“Let us go in and hope that inside is as beautiful as the outside.”
Lizzie only nodded as she was still enraptured by the sight before her.
The inside of the house did not disappoint and although it was richly appointed Lizzie noticed that it was tastefully done. After the door was opened, the butler ushered them into a vast entryway. Lizzie took in all that she could see.
The floor was black and white marble; the walls were covered in rich oak paneling, the chairs covered in fine silk. Above all this was a sparkling chandelier burning brightly. It was a sight to behold. Material things rarely impressed Lizzie but this home had an ease about it and radiated the comfort the inhabitants felt being here.
Once they were relieved of their outerwear, the butler escorted them to the drawing room where Miss Darcy awaited them.
“Mrs. Madeline Gardiner and Miss Elizabeth Bennet,” announced the butler.
The room was done in rich shades of yellow and green and several comfortable chairs and sofas were charmingly grouped together.
Lizzie’s eyes roam the roomed and finally settled on the man standing by the fireplace. Mr. Darcy turned and his eyes met hers.
Miss Darcy had stood by this time and was approaching her visitors. Mr. Darcy approached the visitors as well.
“Welcome to Darcy house,” he said as he bowed and Georgianna curtsied. Both women curtsied likewise.
“Yes, welcome to Darcy house Mrs. Gardiner, I am so pleased that you are here. Would you introduce me to your niece,” Georgianna spoke softly as she gazed at Elizabeth.
“Thank you for inviting us Miss Darcy. May I present my niece Miss Elizabeth Bennet. This is Miss Georgianna Darcy. Mr. Darcy you have already been introduced to.”
As both ladies curtsied to one another, Georgianna glanced quickly at her brother. “You are very welcome. Brother, you already have the acquaintance of Miss Bennet?” asked Georgianna.
“Yes,” replied Darcy. “I was introduced to Miss Bennet when Bingley and I went to Longbourn for him to acquire a horse. Miss Bennet oversees Mr. Gardiner’s interests in this respect.”
Lizzie and Mrs. Gardiner sat on a divan while the Darcy’s each took a seat in chairs opposite them. It was a comfortable setting condusive to conversation.
Just then the door opened and Mrs. Harris the housekeeper proceeded into the room followed by two maids with a tea trolley laden with a vast selection of cakes, fruits, and sandwiches.
Darcy could not take his eyes off of Lizzie while everyone partook of the refreshments. She is even more beautiful then I remember.
Darcy did not interject much into the conversation with the ladies. He spent the time staring at Elizabeth, drinking in the beauty of her face. Her cute slightly upturned nose with a sprinkling of freckles, and bright whiskey colored eyes flecked with gold kept him occupied for some time.
He was so pleased at the rapport developing between his sister and the women. Especially with Miss Bennet. His normally shy sister was at ease and laughing at something Miss Bennet had said. She would be a good sister for Georgianna. Where did that come from? First he had thoughts of love, now marriage?
But if he was honest with himself, and Fitzwilliam Darcy abhorred any type of deceit, even to himself, he admitted that she was just what he wanted in a wife. And yes, he admitted to himself, that he was in love with the delectable Miss Bennet who sparkled with intelligence and wit. And those bosoms!
After all he was a young healthy male in his prime. It would be a pleasure and an honor to take her to his bed as his wife.
Lizzie could not trust herself to look at Mr. Darcy, afraid that her thoughts and feelings would be betrayed. She purposely avoided looking at him and concentrated on getting to know Georgianna better.
Miss Darcy was a shy girl who had to be coaxed into conversation, except when Mrs. Gardiner was speaking of her mother, Lady Ann. Her eyes lit up and she spoke with enthusiasm asking Mrs. Gardiner to tell her everything she remembered about her mother.
Mrs. Gardiner took pity on the motherless girl and related all that she could remember about Lady Ann.
As they were conversing, Lizzie snuck a look at Mr. Darcy only to lower her eyes quickly after doing so. He was staring at her with such intensity, that she dare not look at him again for fear that her countenance would reveal her passionate thoughts about the man. Would she have been surprised to learn he was thinking the same exact thing?
Lizzie’s Dilemma Page 2