Desire and Duty: A Sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice

by Ted Bader

  That afternoon, Georgiana and Elizabeth escorted Thomas to the library of Pemberley. Showing him around, Georgiana remarked to Thomas, “I am a little reluctant to admit my favorite reading genre consists of novels.”

  “Tell me why?”

  “The novels are held in low esteem and are criticized by those in society.”

  “Have you read Jane Austen’s novels? I think you would find them on a higher plane,” said Thomas.

  “No, I have not,” was Georgiana’s response.

  “I have a copy of Miss Austen’s Sense and Sensibility if you would like to borrow it.”

  “May I?”

  “When I return to my room I shall bring it to you.”

  Turning to another bookcase, she pointed out the books which were in obvious disrepair. “These are the oldest books in our library.”

  “Indeed, Ma’am, may I look at one or two of these?”

  Georgiana looked at Elizabeth, who replied, “I am sure Mr. Darcy would not mind.”

  Thomas gently lifted down a very large book, the binding of which was dissolving. The volume originally appeared to be three inches thick and the cover about twelve by nine inches; opening the cover, the group discovered it to be a very old family Bible. Turning the first few pages, Thomas remarked, “There is a Darcy family tree listed here.”

  The women crowded next to him as Georgiana stated, “Here is my mother, Lady Anne, listed as being married to my father, Arthur Darcy, on August 1, 1779.”

  Going up the converging genealogical lines, Elizabeth said, “Look here, Mr. Staley, the great grandmother of Mr. Darcy was named Mary Staley of Staley Hall!”

  “I have never been told this!” Thomas exclaimed.

  “Nor I,” Georgiana replied. Smiling, she said, “That makes us distant relatives.”

  Closing the book, Thomas remarked in a soft tone, “I should like to repair these books. This one, however, is much too valuable to start with.”

  Elizabeth said, “Do you know how to bind books?”

  “I was taught book repair during my library assistanceship at Cambridge. It has been three years since I have worked on books, but I know exactly how it is done. If you find me space to work and obtain the necessary materials, I should like to put new covers on these books to restore them.”

  “Let us know what you need since tomorrow we have to go to Rosing Park and can easily stop over in London.”

  Discussion ensued about the special leather and glue needed. Thomas indicated he would send to Staley Hall for his tools. Georgiana thought there was a small room next to the library that might function well for his purpose. It took several tries to find the right door. It opened into a small room with a large window. A thick layer of dust blanketed everything. The room held little, save a large wooden table with two chairs. Thomas declared it perfect. Elizabeth said she would leave orders for the room to be cleaned.

  Two days later, the Darcys headed down the road in a carriage. Georgiana was vexed at having to leave Pemberley. She felt Thomas Staley to be a most interesting addition to Pemberley and sorely wished that she did not have to go to Rosing Park at this particular time. On their way to Kent, they went through the northern aspect of London and picked up the bookbinding supplies Thomas needed.

  As they approached Rosing Park, they could see Reverend and Mrs. Collins waiting for their arrival. Mr. Collins was Elizabeth’s cousin on her father’s side. He was the rector of Hunsford, but considered himself accountable only to his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Mr. Collins rushed forward as the family stepped out of the carriage. “Ah, cousin Elizabeth, it is so good to see you looking well. . .Georgiana, your beauty grows every day. . .Mr. Darcy, the honor of meeting you is increased with each visit.”

  The Darcys could tell that Mr. Collins was most pleased to escort them into the entrance hall, where they were informed that dinner would be served immediately.

  After the very formal supper at Rosings, Lady Catherine de Bourgh held “court” in her drawing room, as usual. Georgiana was asked, in a not to be refused tone, to play for the assembled family. After doing so, she came and sat down by Mrs. Darcy.

  “Now, let us get down to one of the reasons I invited the Darcy family here. Georgiana, what plans have you made about marriage?”

  “I am not interested in getting married,” she replied resolutely.

  “Nonsense, girl. You must get married.”

  Lady Catherine paused and Mr. Collins interjected, “Lady Catherine is right. You must enter that blessed state. A woman of your accomplishments and beauty would grace any estate and uplift her husband.”

  Lady Catherine interrupted, “I understand there is very little opportunity in rural Derbyshire; and thus, I think you must start attending court again in London.”

  “I do not wish to attend the season in London.”

  “Don’t be impertinent. Of course you do!” Lowering her voice somewhat, she continued, “I need not remind you, Georgiana, that in a little less than a year, you will be seven and twenty years old--an age many consider to be the status of an old maid.”

  Georgiana’s mind desperately searched for a compromise in her favor. If she did not make a counteroffer, she could visualize her aunt demanding a long stay in London until the desired result took place. She answered, “If I attend court for two months, will your ladyship release me from the duty of searching for a husband?”

  “A beautiful, accomplished girl like you will have no trouble in attracting suitors, if she would only desire one.”

  “But, you forget, Ma’am, that Georgiana is quite shy around strangers,” Elizabeth interjected.

  “It is something she must get over, or she may end up as a lonely old woman like myself.” Looking maudlin, she added, “It is terrible to be alone as I have been since my husband and daughter have died, God rest their souls.”

  Georgiana chose not to answer. She thought that marriage had not done much for Lady Catherine, but decided saying so would be unwise.

  Turning the subject, Lady Catherine continued, “Tomorrow, the Duke of Kent will arrive. I hope you will receive him well. I am proud of you, Fitzwilliam, and our family. Georgiana, I am also proud of you and know that you will be a credit to your family.”

  The next morning, as the Darcys and the Collins finished breakfast with Lady Catherine, the arrival of the Duke of Kent was announced. The guests left the table and went into the parlor. A young man, who was somewhat shorter than Georgiana, entered the parlor. The Darcys looked behind him for the old man they expected. When the young man approached Lady Catherine, she curtsied to him and said, “Welcome, your Grace, the Duke of Kent!”

  Lady Catherine then began the introductions. Along with the rest of her family, Georgiana was astonished. Her preconception of an elderly man was at variance with the youth before them. He had blond hair, a square jaw and refined, pleasing manners. He turned and looked at her with penetrating eyes. She felt like retreating but he approached and took her hand; after kissing it, he said, “I am glad Lady Catherine has introduced us. I have heard rumors about the hidden jewel of Derbyshire, but gave them no credence until now. Your tall beauty is wonderful to behold.”

  Georgiana reacted to the size reference with disapprobation. She was repelled that he was at least two inches shorter than herself. She also soon learned that he was only three and twenty.

  Mr. Collins began to approach the Duke, but in doing so he became unsteady and staggered to a couch.

  “Is he unwell?” Elizabeth cried as she saw Charlotte, his wife, attend to him.

  “There is nothing wrong with him,” Lady Catherine said. “He always does that when the highest peers come around.”

  Georgiana could hear him blithering, “I am in the presence of the Duke of Kent. . . sixth from the throne!”

  The Duke turn
ed to Georgiana and said, “I apologize. I am most uncomfortable with the reactions I cause in people since my assumption of the title one month ago. It is quite a change to ascend to such a title. You may continue to call me ‘Lord Percy’, rather than ‘your Grace’, since I am still much more familiar with the former title. ”

  Georgiana sensed this was said with an air of arrogance. It also began to occur to her that this meeting might be contrived by Lady Catherine de Bourgh for the sole purpose of introducing the Duke to her. She moved behind her brother, who asked, “Does your lordship enjoy fishing?”

  “Yes, very much so.”

  “I had heard so. What kind of fish do you pursue?”

  “Any sportfish will do.”

  “Then you must visit Pemberley sometime. We have trout in the streams and bass and perch in the lakes. I can show you all the best spots.”

  “That sounds like jolly good fun. I would come directly, but the season at London is beginning, and I plan on staying there for the winter.”

  Georgiana cringed. It even sounded like her brother was in the conspiracy; though, she knew he would never stoop to such efforts. She had heard him invite many friends for fishing in the past, so she would try not to be too concerned about the Duke’s invitation being special. The fact that Derbyshire was so far north of London often prevented visitors. She certainly hoped this would cause the Duke to forget his invitation.

  The Duke was shown the house by the assembled group. Mr. Collins continued his usual unctuous behavior to the lord, who was plainly irritated by his manner.

  That evening, Lady Catherine prevailed upon Georgiana to play and sing. Georgiana excused herself from singing by mentioning a sore throat, though, she thought to herself, “If someone was here I really wanted to sing to, I could make the effort.”

  She did play the pianoforte, but only listlessly. Having the Duke stare at her during the performance made her feel like an art object at auction. While her shyness and withdrawing character could not confront her aunt directly, she could passively decide not to perform her best for the group.

  His Grace, Duke of Kent

  Chapter Thirteen

  While it was always a relief to leave Rosing Park, Georgiana thought the departure most refreshing this time. She eagerly anticipated the approach to Pemberley.

  The carriage pulled to a stop. As the family stepped out, the children came rushing forward to hug their mother and father. Maria came and grabbed Georgiana’s hand. Phillip was also present with his barking. The boys were telling a jumble of events very excitedly when Elizabeth asked them to settle down and save their stories for dinner.

  Georgiana looked at Thomas and was pleased with what she saw. He was watching the boys and seemed to be avoiding looking at her, in a shy sort of way. Maria took Georgiana over to Thomas. Maria said, “Thomas has involved us in some adventures. A loud noise has been heard around the house at night.”

  “Mamma, please do not let Maria tell our story,” said Andrew. “I discovered it first with Thomas.”

  “Now, children, let us wait until supper to hear these wonderful events which have you so excited,” cried Elizabeth.

  Thomas asked, “Were you able to obtain the needed supplies for the library?”

  “Yes,” Georgiana said and pointed to the medium sized trunk. She turned to Mr. Reynolds to say, “Make sure the servants take that trunk to the library workshop.” Turning back she resumed, “Thomas, you may want to supervise them doing so, since it is your material.”

  After dinner was served, Elizabeth turned to Andrew and said, “Now, tell me what you were so anxious to say when we arrived.”

  “John and I have divided things between us so we do not interrupt each other. I am to tell about the mysterious sound Mr. Staley and I heard one night, when we were in his turret room.”

  Elizabeth interrupted, “Thomas, you know you do not have to see the children outside their scholastic time.”

  “I know, ma’am, but I wanted to let the boys sleep in my room one at a time. Teaching is sometimes best accomplished outside the classroom.”

  Elizabeth continued, “I am sorry for interrupting you, my son, pray continue your story.”

  “The wind was blowing hard one night when we heard the most mournful cry.”

  “Do you think it is a ghost?” Maria asked excitedly.

  “Now, sister, no one has said this sound comes from a ghost,” Andrew said in a big brother fashion.

  “Why not?” Georgiana laughed, “All the estates of Derbyshire seem to have their own ghosts, why not ours?”

  Andrew continued, “Mr. Staley says we must try to study it since it is some sort of natural ‘nomenon’.”

  Mr. Darcy said, “You mean ‘phenomenon’. And yes, by all means, study it. I am sure Thomas, like myself, does not believe in ghosts. Sir William Staley and I have discussed the ethereal issue before. I have never been aware of unusual noises in the hall.”

  Thomas replied, “I believe it is centered in the older part of the house, where my turret is located. It is difficult to study, for it only occurs occasionally and usually on windy nights.”

  “There you have it--the wind must be causing it,” Mr. Darcy said.

  “That is my opinion also,” Thomas continued, “However, the sound changes character rather frequently, making it quite curious.”

  With a tone of playfulness, Georgiana said, “Now that we have a real mystery at Pemberley, a delicious adventure may ensue. Pray, let us not solve it too quickly.”

  Andrew said, “We have not been able to solve it yet. When we approach the sound, it seems to move or disappear.”

  “Mr. Darcy, may the boys and I have permission to go onto the roof of Pemberley house?”

  “You must include me in the request, Thomas,” Georgiana said.

  Thinking for a minute, Mr. Darcy replied, “I do not see any problem, as long as they are with you or Georgiana. Most of the pathways have ramparts and, thus, should be safe. Only, do not stay out if it is raining, since the footing can become treacherous.”

  “My turn,” piped up John.

  “Yes, Master John, you have shown remarkable patience in waiting,” Mrs. Darcy said in an approving tone.

  “Not really, Mother. I was listening to the story. I have had the rotten luck of not hearing any ghostly sounds when I stayed in the turret, but I wanted to tell you about the den of foxes we discovered across the river on our walk. If you wait on the bridge in the twilight, you can sometimes see the red foxes come out.”

  “Yes, Mamma, and Thomas has helped show us hares and squirrels,” Maria beamed with her report.

  Thomas and Maria left after supper to return to their respective rooms. The boys were excused and headed outside to check on the foxes.

  Mr., Mrs., and Miss Darcy sat sipping their coffee.

  “Can there be any doubt that Thomas is an excellent tutor?”

  The women nodded in agreement.

  “My approbation is complete. I have often felt guilty about the affairs that draw me away from home. Thomas has developed a felicitous presence here at Pemberley. We are obliged to him.”

  Georgiana was pleased that her brother expressed such approval. Thomas was becoming more and more interesting to her. He was rising in her esteem and the feelings of love she had, three years earlier, were beginning to warm her soul again. Little did she realize that her oft repeated intention to never marry was beginning to melt.

  Chapter Fourteen

  A fortnight later, Georgiana wandered into the school room to listen. The children were present, but Thomas had not yet arrived. She no longer was monitoring him, but enjoyed the atmosphere that Thomas created for the children in the room.

  Thomas entered shortly and she watched as he approached his seat. He sat down and his facial expressio
n became chagrined. John began shaking as he tried to stifle his laughter. Andrew and Maria looked puzzled. Georgiana noticed water dripping in all directions from Thomas’ chair. Georgiana could not help but laugh; she put her hand over her mouth in an attempt to suppress her giggles. It was clear to her that the mischievous John had soaked Mr. Staley’s seat cushion as a lone conspirator. He now observed his teacher with open merriment. Maria also began giggling; while their serious older brother, Andrew, appeared embarrassed. Georgiana was interested to see how Thomas would react.

  Mr. Staley quickly regained his composure and acted as if nothing had happened. He said, “Andrew and John, I have a difficult mathematics test for each of you. The boy that finishes his test first, gets the rest of the morning off.” Maria was told to read a story in her primer while the boys took their test. Competitive looks filled the faces of her nephews. Thomas rose from his seat and the dripping ceased. He handed the tests to the boys and told them to start. Mr. Staley dropped his pencil in front of John’s desk and, unbeknownst to the concentrating young man, tied the lad’s shoelaces together. After doing so, Mr. Staley returned to his seat and glanced towards Georgiana who gave a smile of approbation.

  Andrew and John finished at nearly the same time. Mr. Staley came to their desks to pick up their tests. After a moment or two of looking at the answers he said, “It appears you have done equally well. I will give you both the morning off.”

  With a gleeful yelp, both boys stood up and Andrew began to run, only to see John fall forward. This time everyone else in the room saw what had caused his fall and began to laugh without restraint. Thomas knelt to help John turn over onto his back. By this time, John was smiling and said, “I think your trick was better than mine.”

  Mr. Staley replied, “Not at all. You just need to learn not to play tricks on an old Cambridge man. Every college student seems to learn more about pranks than he does about knowledge.”