by Linda Wells
Elizabeth tilted her head, “And of course you have had the responsibility of your staff and sister to take all of the rest of your time. No wonder winter seemingly speeds by for you.”
His smile grew. “Indeed Miss Elizabeth, it seems that this brief period after the harvest is when I have my most leisure.”
“How very fortunate we are to have won your company this year.” She smiled warmly at him.
Darcy’s eyes burned into hers. “Indeed, how fortunate for me and my sister.”
Charlotte saw that her brother was not doing well. “Eliza, I am going to open the instrument and I insist that you play.”
“Oh no Charlotte, I have no desire to offend the ears of your guests with my poor singing and fingering. You are much better off persuading one of the more accomplished ladies. I am sure that Miss Bingley would be very pleased to exhibit.”
Charlotte firmly took her arm. “Please, I must insist.”
She pulled her away, and Elizabeth shook her head and smiled first at William, then at John. “It seems that I must acquiesce to my friend. Gentlemen, I suggest that you find a suitable activity to distract yourselves from the poor sounds which will soon fill this room.” She looked back at William and followed Charlotte to the pianoforte.
“Have you heard Miss Elizabeth, sir? I have had the pleasure countless times. Do not let her fool you, she is quite accomplished. Perhaps not in a technical way, but her emotion is evident in her presentation.” Darcy looked at John sharply, and saw that he was staring after Elizabeth with admiration and longing. Darcy felt compelled to walk away before he drew him outside to thrash him soundly for staring at his wife in such a way. He strode across the room and stood at the side of the instrument. Elizabeth was looking through the sheets of music and noticed him immediately.
“Sir, I would be grateful if you could turn the pages for me.” She said softly.
Darcy smiled and happily took his place at her side. “It is an honour, Miss Elizabeth.” Elizabeth leaned against him for a moment and heard the sharp intake of his breath. She could not look at him but saw from the corner of her eye his warm gaze. Other guests saw the couple sitting together on the bench, and gathered around to hear the song. Elizabeth began to play, and Darcy was lost in the sound of her soprano voice, as fine as any soloist he had ever paid to hear. Her playing was, as Lucas had said, not technically perfect, but emotive of the essence of the song. He felt carried away, and nearly missed his cues to turn the pages until he realized that Elizabeth would gently lean into him a few bars ahead to gain his attention. He smiled to himself, seeing her save him from the embarrassment of appearing a lovesick fool before a roomful of people. The song ended and the crowd clapped, demanding another.
She looked up to see him staring at her with open admiration. “Well sir, may I employ you for one more performance?”
He leaned in and whispered, “No, for a lifetime of them. I believe we have found another way to pass the lonely winter at Pemberley.” She blushed and pulled out a lively Scottish air to relieve the heady mood. Darcy drew back and was able to pay better attention to the music without the bewitching sound of her voice in his ear.
Beyond the instrument, conversations continued. Mrs. Bennet was very pleased to see the couple seated next to each other, and did not hesitate to voice her expectations of a forthcoming offer by Mr. Darcy. Mr. Bennet stood in an alcove and watched their behaviour. It had been obviously warm, but no objections could be said. He was relieved to see that they could behave properly when in public. Lady Lucas took in the scene and saw that her son’s cause was lost, and resolved to identify a new candidate for her daughter, and determine ways to convince her son of the truth. Caroline and Louisa; finally arrived and quite unhappy with the transportation arrangements, set about learning everything they could about Elizabeth. To their unhappy discovery, she was found to be universally liked. Caroline then spotted John Lucas standing nearby, staring longingly at her.
“Mr. Lucas?” Caroline sidled up to him.
He startled, and as the song ended and Elizabeth refused to play again, he shifted his focus to the extravagantly-dressed woman by his side. “Yes, Miss Bingley? What may I do for you?”
“Mr. Lucas, I have heard that you are most interested in Miss Eliza Bennet, is this true?”
He straightened, and observed her carefully. “I would like to think that we are good friends.”
“Good friends, indeed! You grew up almost side-by-side! How wonderful it would be to see such childhood friends marry! What a wonderful gift for both of your families! When may I wish you and dear Miss Eliza joy?” She smiled and batted her eyes at him.
He grew suspicious. “Miss Bingley, as you are aware, Mr. Darcy has entered a courtship with Miss Elizabeth. I am afraid that my hopes may be dashed.”
“Nonsense sir, she is still free until her wedding day. You must not give her up!” Caroline nodded at him encouragingly, but her strained voice indicated her desperation.
“Why would my choice for a bride interest you, Miss Bingley?”
Caroline flushed prettily. “Well, if you must know, Mr. Lucas, I have a longstanding admiration for Mr. Darcy, and until he was distracted by Miss Eliza, I believe that he would have made his offer to me during his visit to Netherfield.”
John crossed his arms and leaned back against a wall, nodding. “So, it seems that you lost the suitor you wished for and I lost the lady I chose by their unfortunate meeting. What exactly do you propose, Miss Bingley?”
Caroline smiled her most cat-like grin. “Have you thought of taking the matter into your own hands, sir?” He tilted his head and looked confused. Caroline was frustrated that he did not follow. “I understand that Miss Eliza enjoys long walks about the countryside alone.” She nodded at him significantly and raised her brow. She saw the light of comprehension come into his eyes.
“You are suggesting that I …”
She smiled, “Oh, nothing overt, but enough to be noticed by a witness or two?” She nodded again. “I see that you understand me, Mr. Lucas.” She tapped his arm and moved away, leaving John staring after her. He shuddered at the thought of being married to her, and pitied Darcy for a moment for being her object. Then he looked back across the room to where Darcy and Elizabeth stood comfortably by the pianoforte, watching Mary play as Georgiana turned the pages. He wondered, perhaps this was the only way.
Elizabeth caught Georgiana’s eye and glanced at Mary, who was shuffling through the sheets of music, looking for a new song. Georgiana picked up a lively piece and gave it to her. “Mary, perhaps the guests would like to dance.”
Mary looked at her. “But everyone seemed to enjoy the song I just played, and besides, they are all talking.”
Lydia came running up. “Play a jig, Mary! It is far too quiet in here!”
Sighing, Mary took the music and put it up. “I will do this only because you asked first, Georgiana.” The girl smiled and looked up at Elizabeth who was nodding her head.
Mary struck the first notes and Darcy turned to her. “I believe, Miss Elizabeth that we should honour your sister’s playing by dancing to her song. Will you join me?” He smiled and offered his hand.
“I would be delighted.” She took his hand and they moved to an area where other couples were lining up. Lydia dragged a laughing young man to the floor and Kitty was looking about, hoping to catch some man’s eye when she felt her mother’s hand on her arm.
“Mr. Lucas, surely you will not miss a chance to dance! Here is Kitty! You made such a delightful couple at the assembly!” She pushed Kitty forward and John looked at her, and then at her mother with some distress.
“Madam, I …”
Mrs. Bennet would brook no opposition. “Go on, get out there, you still have time to join.”
John sighed and took Kitty’s reluctant hand. “Come, Miss Kitty.” John stood opposite her, waiting for their turn to move, and watched Darcy smiling and holding Elizabeth’s hand as she swung around him. He noticed M
iss Bingley glaring at the couple from the other side of the room, and then looked up to take note of Charlotte glaring at them as well. He wondered how many people in that room were unhappy with this particular pairing, and noticed that Kitty was certainly unhappy with him. It seemed that the only female member of the Bennet family who favoured him that evening was Mrs. Bennet
The remainder of the evening passed without incident. Elizabeth was unsurprised to find herself seated beside John and across from Charlotte, and to see that William was far down the table on the same side, so there was no possibility of them even looking at each other during the courses. Lady Lucas clearly had intended to promote her son and dissuade William, but was not actively encouraging any conversation during the meal. Elizabeth was able to converse in a friendly manner with her dinner partners, and John was exceedingly polite, although he seemed to have something on his mind. He persisted in extolling the virtues of Hertfordshire, as well as its proximity to London. He made note of Mr. Bingley’s attentions to Jane, and suggested that if a happy event occurred in that quarter, would it not be wonderful to know that her sister would not be taken far away upon her marriage, as he knew how close she was to Jane. He knew that he had struck a significant mark with that statement and was pleased to see her startle and look carefully at Jane’s flushed face, she clearly was enjoying Mr. Bingley’s attentions, and he was earnest in his delivery. Elizabeth had been so caught up in her own romance that she really had not paid much attention to the progression of Jane’s.
Georgiana fortunately was seated across from her brother and Mary, so she was able to enjoy the meal in some peace, but she was also able to observe Elizabeth from her position, and the alarm she displayed while watching her receive John’s attentions was noted by Darcy. He was desperate to know what was happening, but could not call across the table for a description. Finally he leaned across, “Georgiana.” She looked away from the couple. “Is she well?” The anxiety was evident in his eyes.
“I am not sure, she appears worried.” Darcy sighed with frustration and leaned back, trying to see her face down the row of diners, but only managed to catch the briefest glimpse of her hair. Even that sight sent his heart racing. Mr. Bennet sat on the opposite side of the table, almost exactly between the couple, and was watching them. They were both clearly unhappy with the table arrangements, and he noticed John saying things to Lizzy that gave her pause. He wondered if another talk might be necessary with the young man.
Upon the separation after dinner, Bingley could not stop his delighted rambling about Miss Bennet, and Hurst shook his head and smiled at Darcy. “It seems my brother is in love again. You had nothing to fear about him and your Miss Elizabeth.”
Darcy looked at his friend’s faraway and dreamy smile. “Do you think it will stick this time? I do not wish to see Miss Bennet disappointed.”
Hurst regarded one man, then the other. “I do believe this might be the one, Darcy. It seems Bingley will be your brother after all.” Darcy looked at him sharply. “Oh come on man, it is clear as day what your intentions are. My wife and sister are quite convinced of it.” Darcy smiled slightly and shook his head. Hurst looked at him seriously. “Do be careful of Caroline, Darcy. I listened to her complain of Miss Elizabeth the entire way here.”
“Thank you, I am well aware of not being caught alone with her, not that I would capitulate if I were.”
Hurst grinned. “I have always admired that about you, Darcy, duty and honour are your bywords, but you show uncommon sense as well.” He raised his glass and walked away. Darcy laughed slightly and looked at the clock, soon this ritual would be over and he could return to his Elizabeth.
Sir William approached with an officer. “Mr. Darcy, may I introduce you to Colonel Forster? His militia will be quartering in the area for the winter.”
Darcy bowed. “It is an honour to meet a man who has dedicated his life to protecting our country, sir.”
The Colonel smiled with pleasure. “Thank you, Mr. Darcy. I wish that we received such a warm welcome from all residents, I am afraid we are often regarded as a menace, particularly by the fathers of young daughters.” He smiled sadly. “I try to instil proper behaviour in the men, but …”
“Vice of some form or another abounds, yes, I know, sir. If not ladies, it is drink or gaming. My cousin is a colonel with the regulars, and often bemoans his troops, although he has had great success in reforming or perhaps the word is, restraining them.” He smiled slightly.
Colonel Forster looked interested. “Really? What is his name? Perhaps we have met.”
“Fitzwilliam, Richard, with the cavalry stationed in London. He fought on the peninsula. He will visit the area in a few weeks; perhaps he can pay you a call.”
Colonel Forster nodded his head. “Yes, I am always interested in meeting another man in regimentals.” He laughed. “Well, good evening, sir.” They bowed and Sir William took him off to meet more members of the neighbourhood. Darcy was watching them go when Mr. Bennet strolled to his side and nodded after the colonel.
“My daughters are beside themselves in anticipation of the militia’s arrival.” Darcy exchanged glances with him.
“You should watch them carefully sir, while the colonel has made this his career, most of these men are there by lottery, not choice.”
“Yes five years, unless the regulars do something about Napoleon … ah well, that is another subject entirely.” He took a sip of his port and gestured his glass across the room. “Mr. Darcy. I was pleased to see you getting on so well with Lucas.”
Darcy smiled grimly. “You mean you were pleased I did not beat him for shooting me or strangle him for approaching Miss Elizabeth?”
Mr. Bennet laughed. “Well, something along those lines.” He stood looking around the room. “I think that one more week should be sufficient, sir.”
Darcy’s head snapped up. “Sir?”
Mr. Bennet nodded. “I have listened to the murmurings of the neighbourhood. Expectations are high. One more week, and I will be satisfied.” He patted Darcy’s shoulder and walked away. Darcy drew a deep breath and reached into his pocket to wind Elizabeth’s ribbon around his fingers. One more week and we may announce our engagement. Thank you, Lord.
When the men reunited with the ladies, Darcy had no further opportunity to spend time alone with Elizabeth. He was always near, but so were his sister, her sisters, Bingley, the Bennets, Miss Lucas, seemingly everybody who ever had any interest in either of them was there to get in their way. Caroline seemed to attempt a permanent attachment to his arm and he was continually shaking her off like an overly affectionate dog. He was desperate for a moment alone with Elizabeth, and finally had the opportunity as they walked outside to the carriages. “Elizabeth,” he whispered, “will you walk in the morning?”
She looked around and seeing everyone occupied she stepped near. “Yes, if there is no rain, I hope to be out by eight. You will ride?”
He nodded. “I will meet you at the stile. I have good news.” He smiled, unable to hide his joy.
“Tell me now!” She whispered.
“No, I want to tell you when we might celebrate properly.” His gaze sent a warm fire down to her belly.
Elizabeth pursed her lips, but her eyes were dancing. “Very well then, make me suffer.”
Darcy laughed with delight, then Jane called Elizabeth and they looked at each other with regret. He kissed her hand with a lingering caress. “Dream of me, my love.” One more look then he watched her board the carriage, and lifted his hand as it rolled by. He turned to help Georgiana into his carriage and Bingley climbed in after him. They had not gone far before his ribbon was again wound around his fingers, and his thoughts were with a pair of fine eyes.
ROBERTS WAS moving about the dressing room when Darcy entered. “What are you doing, Roberts? I thought I told you not to wait for me.”
“Yes sir, but Danny arrived and I am afraid I was late with my preparations for the night.” He took the coat and waistcoa
t Darcy handed to him.
“Gossiping, Roberts?” He raised his brow.
His valet cleared his throat. “Just gathering the news from London, sir.” Darcy smiled to himself, knowing full well what news the two loyal servants would be discussing, and handed him his cravat. He sat down so his boots could be removed.
“I see.”
“I left your letters on the writing desk and your package from Mr. Hendricks there by the bed, sir.”
Darcy looked over to the old velvet box and nodded. “Thank you.” He removed the rest of his clothing and poured some water from the ewer into the basin and began washing off the grime of the evening. His man stood with his eyes averted and handed him a towel. “Thank you, Roberts; that will be all. I wish to be riding by seven-thirty.” The valet bowed and wished him a good night, and Darcy slipped the long nightshirt over his head. He stood and looked at himself in the mirror, and wondered if he would please Elizabeth. The mere thought of her seeing him dressed in such a way … he groaned, “What are you doing to me, Elizabeth?” Climbing into the bed, he tried to distract his thoughts, and opened his eyes to look over at the box. He reached for it, and rolling onto his side, he rested his head on the pillow and opened it carefully. The jewels captured the light from the fire and came alive, dancing like her eyes. He settled deeper into his pillow and set the box next to him, watching the sparkle, and fell asleep, imagining that she was there.
MR. BENNET rarely slept through the night, and never with his wife. He was in his bookroom early the next morning, finally opening and reading the letter from his cousin William Collins. The letter was so ridiculous that he found himself laughing at the man’s curious style. Instead of resenting the fact that because of the entailment set down by his grandfather he was forced to relinquish his family’s estate to a distant cousin, he looked forward to the character study the obviously foolish parson would present. He also wondered at the thinly-veiled motives for the visit, as the presence of five unmarried daughters in the house was mentioned several times. “Well, Lizzy will be safe from him, and she and Mr. Darcy can easily afford to care for the rest of the girls if it becomes necessary. Perhaps Jane will soon be safe as well.” It was sobering to think of his girls leaving home, but knowing that they would go to good men and not be left to accept the attentions of someone like Collins was a relief. He sharpened a pen and wrote to the man, inviting him to mend the fences. When he finished he set about answering his sister’s letter, and heard the front door open and close again. He looked out of the window to see Elizabeth adjusting her gloves and setting off at a brisk pace. He wondered if she was meeting Mr. Darcy, then decided he really did not want to know.