“Well, I can mend it, but it will be noticeable,” she announced as she sat back on her heels.
Just then there was a knock upon the door and a voice followed. “Georgie?”
Jumping up from my place beside Elizabeth, I rushed to the door and opened it for Fitzwilliam. “You have it?”
He handed me the green neck cloth, though his gaze fell just behind me. A tender smile crossed his countenance as he bowed his head.
Glancing over my shoulder, I saw a blush cover Elizabeth’s chest and countenance. I pushed my brother from the room and closed the door.
“Hannah, what can you do with this?” I waved the neck cloth.
“Ooh, it’s the perfect colour!” Kitty exclaimed. “Lizzy, it will look as though it was meant to be there.”
“If we can attach it correctly.” Hannah frowned as she laid the cloth across the damaged gown. “It is not long enough to wrap the whole way around.” She bit her lip as she laid the cloth one way and then another. Suddenly inspiration struck her. “Miss Elizabeth, will you stand please? I must see how tall you are.”
“Oh, I feel so ridiculous,” Elizabeth muttered as she stood. She glanced at Kitty and me. “You need not stay with me. I am certain Hannah will be able to make me presentable, but it will most likely take some time. I do not want you to miss the ball.”
“Are you certain?” Kitty asked, clearly eager to return to the dancing.
“Go!” Elizabeth smiled and waved us away.
I hesitated, but Kitty grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the door. “Come now; Lizzy will be displeased if we miss the fun by sitting here with her.”
“She is correct, Georgiana. You may leave me knowing I am in capable hands.” She smiled at Hannah who nodded absent-mindedly as she began pinning the cloth to the gown.
“If you insist,” I responded hesitantly. I was at the door when I stopped and turned back to Hannah. “She must be ready for the supper dance.” I looked at Elizabeth. “I wish to dine with you.”
“I shall join you for dinner, even if I am too late to enjoy your brother’s dance.” Elizabeth’s smile was not as bright as it normally was, but I nodded and left the room.
Once in the hallway, I could hear scattered footsteps, but did not see anyone. I remembered my brother’s words of warning and glanced about, searching out the small, somewhat private areas he had mentioned. I was shocked when I saw a flash of red in an alcove down the way and heard a faint, feminine giggle. Shaking my head, I gripped Kitty’s arm tighter and moved quickly toward the ballroom.
We entered at the far end and I could see Fitzwilliam coming down the line of dancers with Jane. As they reached their places, the music ended. It appeared as though he might escort her toward them, but Mr. Bingley was soon by his side offering Jane refreshment. Fitzwilliam bowed and made his way toward me.
“Did the neck cloth suffice?” he asked as he glanced about for Elizabeth.
“Hannah believes it will do well, but Elizabeth sent us away to enjoy the ball.” I finished speaking just as the feather appeared behind my brother.
“Mr. Darcy, I believe this is our dance.” Miss Bingley wrapped her hands about Fitzwilliam’s arm possessively, not looking at anyone else in our party.
“Of course, Miss Bingley.” He bowed to her before turning back to Kitty and me. “If you will excuse me.” He bowed once more, a look of pain crossing his face, before he turned and led his partner to the head of the line.
Kitty giggled. “Your brother is nothing like we believed.”
I frowned. “And what was that?”
“Well, he was always so stiff and proper. He would stand to the side and look down on everyone. Of course I suppose part of that is because he is so tall, he must look down; but we believed he was too proud to speak.” She glanced about, hopeful for a partner. “Do all the women act like Miss Bingley when they are near him?”
I shook my head as I watched our hostess attempting to flirt with Fitzwilliam while they danced. “Unfortunately, yes.”
“I suppose that could be fun for a time, but it would soon become tiring I should think.” Kitty gripped my arm and stood taller as an officer approached.
“Miss Catherine, may I have this dance?”
“Of course, Mr. Pratt.” She smiled to her companion as she took the officer’s arm and was led away.
I looked about for Mrs. Annesley and finally found her by Mrs. Bennet and Lady Lucas. I began to make my way toward them when I came upon Mr. Bennet, who had just recently arrived. His complexion was pale and he scanned the room as though in search of someone.
“Mr. Bennet, you appear distraught. May I be of assistance?”
“I beg your pardon?” He glanced down and smiled as he recognized me. “Ah, Miss Darcy, I believe you can be of assistance. I see your brother is dancing, but I do not see Lizzy.”
“There was an accident, sir. She is in the retiring room having her gown mended.”
“An accident?” A look of unease crossed his countenance and I quickly reassured him.
“Nothing so bad. Mr. Collins stepped upon her gown and tore it at the bottom. I suspect Hannah shall soon be finished stitching it, and Lizzy will return to the dancing.”
Mr. Bennet looked toward Fitzwilliam once more as though he was deciding something. “Miss Darcy, I must speak with your brother, but I do not wish to cause an uproar.”
“After this dance, he is to partner Mrs. Hurst. I am certain he will have a moment between dances,” I sighed, “if we are able to separate him from Miss Bingley.”
The corner of Mr. Bennet’s lips twitched and his eyes sparkled momentarily. “And should I require your assistance in that endeavour, may I count on you?”
I smiled brightly. “Most certainly, sir.”
He returned my smile, but it faded quickly. I took a guess as to what had the gentleman so unusually concerned. “I understand Miss Lydia wished to accompany you this evening.”
The creases on his brow deepened. “Yes. I fear she is the reason I must speak to your brother.”
“Fitzwilliam? I do not understand.”
Mr. Bennet took a deep breath and glanced about once more. I was sensitive to his anxiety; it appeared Miss Bingley had arranged for this to be the longest dance of the evening. When Mr. Bennet took my hand and placed it on his arm, I was surprised, but allowed him to lead me about the room.
“I suppose it would be best to warn you, as it may be some time before I speak to your brother.” His voice was soft and he had donned a false air of amusement as he glanced at the dancers we passed. “In her ranting, Lydia revealed she had arranged to meet Mr. Wickham here. It was to be a surprise as he had told the other officers he was unable to attend.”
I felt as though the air had been forced from me. Mr. Bennet patted my hand, meeting my eye for a moment in an encouraging manner. I forced a smile and glanced toward my brother who was looking in my direction and appeared about to step out of the dance line, so I laughed as though Mr. Bennet had just told a witticism, not delivered unwanted news. When he relaxed and returned his attentions to his partner, I gripped my escort’s arm tighter and spoke through clenched teeth.
“Did she mention where or when?”
“No. Once she realized what she had revealed, she refused to say more.” He muttered something I was unable to hear, but was certain it was an oath of some sort. “She is in her room with Mrs. Hill watching over her.”
I nodded, deep in thought, as we made our way closer to the matrons of Meryton society. When we reached Mrs. Annesley’s side, Mr. Bennet assisted me to a chair and bowed to the ladies.
“Oh, Mr. Bennet,” Mrs. Bennet cried upon seeing him. “I am so pleased you were able to arrive before the supper dance. You know, Lizzy is to dance with Mr. Darcy, and they appear to be getting on exceedingly well together.”
“Mrs. Bennet, I would ask that you not begin matching our daughter with Mr. Darcy. Though I believe he may be the best of men, I do not desire her living so f
ar away.” Before anymore could be said, he turned and left the circle of hens.
“He apologized, you know,” Mrs. Bennet continued to Lady Lucas, oblivious to her husband’s words. “I am certain he has found Lizzy to be so much more than tolerable.” She giggled behind her fan.
I watched as Mr. Bennet made his way toward the far end of the room in order to be near Fitzwilliam when the dance ended; all the while listening to his wife continue her speculation regarding a match between Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth while observing the activity in the room.
Kitty was dancing enthusiastically with the officer, while Miss Bingley and Fitzwilliam appeared ill at ease. Mr. Bingley smiled broadly at Charlotte Lucas, though his glances often followed Jane who danced with Mr. Denny. As I watched, I noticed that Jane’s gaze was frequently drawn toward her host as well. A movement to my left drew my attention and I turned to find Mary and Mr. Collins sitting together speaking animatedly, perhaps of the dancers as they motioned that direction frequently.
A smile crept across my lips as the importance of a ball resurfaced in my mind. Yes, they were entertaining, but there was so much more just below the surface. This was a marketplace, and the merchants presented their wares to the best of their abilities in hopes of capturing a customer. Miss Bingley was using the opportunity to show her skills as hostess in an attempt to impress Fitzwilliam. He had no desire for her, but she was incapable of recognizing it. Most everyone in the room had seen the attraction between him and Elizabeth, thus beginning Mrs. Bennet’s conjectures.
“Oh, to see two daughters wed!” that lady suddenly decreed to her friend before turning and seeing her third daughter. “Perchance three.” She pointed and all eyes turned to Mary who was unaware of the sudden attention.
Yes, the ball was the lead into courtship with expectations of matrimony. No wonder Fitzwilliam had attempted to avoid them for so many years. I giggled softly until I felt Mrs. Annesley’s eyes upon me. She must believe I have been in the punch. This brought on another round of giggles.
Finally, the dance ended and I watched as Mr. Bennet stepped quickly up to Fitzwilliam, bowed to Miss Bingley, and led her escort away. The lady’s eyes blazed, but she drew herself to her full height and moved decidedly toward her sister where her countenance displayed every indignation as she spoke.
I turned my attention back to my brother, but he and Mr. Bennet were no longer in the room. Keeping my eyes on the doors, I was pleased when they returned a few minutes later escorting Elizabeth. Fitzwilliam scanned the room, obviously searching for me, so I stood and waved to draw his attention.
“Miss Darcy,” Mrs. Annesley stepped up to my side. “Was there something you required?”
“Oh no, Fitzwilliam is looking for me.” I pointed toward the approaching group.
“Mrs. Annesley,” Fitzwilliam bowed as he neared us. “I must ask that you be even more attentive this evening. I fear the presence of an unsavoury character.” He hesitantly turned toward me. “Forgive me, Dearest, I believe it would be best that you retire for the evening now.”
“Fitzwilliam …” I began to protest, but he stopped me.
“No, Georgie. I insist you go upstairs now.”
My eyes dropped to the floor, where I noticed for the first time how expertly Hannah had attached the cloth to Elizabeth’s gown. It looked as though it was part of the original design, and matched perfectly with my brother’s clothing so everyone would suspect it had been planned.
“Could I not at least see you dance with Elizabeth?” I pleaded.
“Mr. Darcy,” Elizabeth leaned closer to him. “I understand your concern, but would it not appear odd for Georgiana to leave prior to the appointed time? And, more importantly, is she not more protected in a room full of people than alone upstairs?”
“Miss Elizabeth, your argument has merit, but we are dealing with an unpredictable foe. I know not what he may say or do, but I firmly believe, whatever his actions, the object will be to injure me.”
Her brow arched as she observed him. “You are so certain? I understand there has been a long history between you, but is there no chance that he may simply wish to make more of his life? And may I point out that the only word we have of his possible arrival here tonight is from my sister; a highly unreliable source.”
“Please, Fitzwilliam. I promise I will remain by Mrs. Annesley; stay away from doors and windows; whatever you require.” I looked at him with wide pleading eyes. Elizabeth stepped forward to stand by my side.
With a great sigh, Fitzwilliam relented. “Very well; I fear I am unable to resist the two of you together.”
“Oh, thank you!” I stepped forward and placed a kiss upon his cheek.
“Yes, well,” he looked reluctantly about. “I fear I am delayed in collecting my next partner. Do I ask too much that you both remain here until I return?”
Elizabeth slipped an arm through mine. “We shall not move from this very spot.” She looked about. “Well, we may take those seats over there, but there we shall remain.”
Though he attempted to appear stern, it was beyond his power. He bowed and went in search of Mrs. Hurst instead as Mr. Bennet sighed loudly.
“What is it, Papa?” Elizabeth asked in concern.
“Oh, I was simply considering the cost of traveling to Derbyshire.” He turned his attention toward me. “I understand your home boasts a most extensive library.”
“It does indeed, sir. I believe you would be quite at home within it.” I smiled as I squeezed Elizabeth’s arm.
Chapter Fifteen
“Oh, Elizabeth, I am so pleased Hannah was able to repair your dress.” I squeezed her hand as we sat together watching the dancers.
“It would have been atrocious if not for your brother’s neck cloth. I hope he did not expect it returned to him.” She fingered the silk cloth, which Hannah had cut into strips and sown into a pattern on the front panel of her gown. “Do you think anyone will notice?”
I shook my head decidedly. “Fitzwilliam prefers white neck cloths. I purchased the green for him for his birthday, but he has never worn it. And I doubt anyone will think twice regarding the change to your gown, unless they studied it closely when you first arrived.” I shrugged my shoulders as I looked out at the dancers. “Besides, many people saw the damage done by Mr. Collins, or heard word of it, and would be pleased you were able to return to the ball.”
“I suppose.” Elizabeth ran a hand nervously over the material once more. “Georgiana, did you suggest your brother wear a green waistcoat?”
“I did not mention it to Fitzwilliam,” I replied innocently, while not looking directly at her.
“I see.” There was a slight silence and I was about to turn around when Elizabeth spoke again. “Do you frequently speak to his valet regarding Mr. Darcy’s clothing choices?”
Feeling heat rush to my cheeks, I lowered my gaze. “Will you forgive me, Elizabeth? When I saw your gown, I was immediately reminded of Fitzwilliam’s green waistcoat. I knew you would appear stunning together.”
“Georgiana, I must ask you to stop pushing your brother and I together. I quite like you and hope that we may be great friends; but I do not wish to be constantly concerned that our visits may make your brother uncomfortable.”
“Why would you believe he is uncomfortable?” I tilted my head to the side, studying Elizabeth who gazed at the dancers most intently.
“Whenever we have been in company, he has stared at me in such a manner that I am certain he is attempting to find fault. My family has certainly proven itself quite ridiculous before him on several occasions. My own sister has attempted to maim him and conspired with his enemy. However could we overcome such obstacles?”
The dance ended and Fitzwilliam quickly dispatched his partner to her husband and hurried across the room in our direction.
“Does he appear desirous to avoid you?” I whispered just before he arrived in front of us.
Elizabeth’s blush was exceedingly becoming as Fitzwilliam bo
wed over her hand and led her to the floor. She glanced over her shoulder in my direction, flashing a reluctant smile of acceptance as he laid his injured hand over hers, which rested upon his arm.
“Oh, how I wish I could hear what they say,” I said under my breath.
“That would be highly improper,” Mrs. Annesley responded causing me to jump.
“Forgive me,” I said as I took my seat and the lady followed. “I had forgotten you were there.”
“You and Miss Elizabeth were speaking quite intently. I did not wish to interrupt.”
“Do they not look beautiful together?” I watched as Fitzwilliam led Elizabeth through the pattern and returned to their places. It was clear he was favouring his hand and she was making adjustments to protect his weakness. “Did you see how he looked at her just now?”
“Now Miss Darcy, her mother is doing enough speculating without your assistance.”
I glanced about until I found Mrs. Bennet, surrounded by her friends, speaking animatedly as she motioned toward the dancers. My eyes then moved over the onlookers and found that many were watching both of the eldest Bennet sisters and their partners. Slowly I began to understand Elizabeth’s words. Expectations were being raised, if my brother decided not to court Elizabeth, future visits to Hertfordshire could be exceedingly awkward, to say the least.
A sigh escaped me and Mrs. Annesley laid a hand upon mine. “Your brother is a sensible man and Miss Elizabeth is wise for her years. I am certain all will be well.”
Nodding slowly, I promised myself I would do no more to force the couple together. “So long as no one presses the issue. I fear I have done more than was proper.”
Mrs. Annesley sat straighter and looked me up and down. “I know I may not have been as attentive as normal, but I have not seen any misstep on your part. Why do you believe you have injured them? From what you have told me, I find you have simply smoothed the way toward friendship.”
“What of Fitzwilliam’s waistcoat?”
“A most lovely coincidence.”
Georgiana Darcy, Matchmaker Page 14