Confusion, Confession and Conviction

by Victoria Winfield

  "To what do I owe this invitation?" she asked.

  Mr. Bennet closed the door, smiled at Elizabeth, and paced to the large window, gazing out at the sheep grazing in the distance.

  After a moment, he turned and smiled at her again, one eyebrow stretching up.

  "You might well wonder, my child. I have been so used to ignoring all of you, well, not you so much as the others, perhaps." His eyes twinkled at her as he eventually moved to sit at his desk. He clasped his hands on top of the desk and leaned toward her.

  "Lizzy, I know I must seem an indifferent parent, despite your protests!" He held up his hand as Elizabeth started to object. "I know this to be true about myself. Believe me when I say that I take no pride in it, but, my dear, I fear I have become so accustomed to it, that I cannot dredge up the effort to change it."

  Elizabeth pressed her lips together, smiled, and shook her head at him. It was useless to refute his statement, especially she knew it to be true for the most part. Her father loved them all, that was for certain, but he certainly remained somewhat distant.

  "I received a caller this morning, just as you had all gone out to accompany your mother to her sister's house."

  "A caller?"

  "Yes." Mr. Bennet cleared his throat. "Lizzy, you must be honest with me now. What is your opinion of the Duke of Windfell?"

  Heat rose to her face and her stomach twisted as she thought of him. Why was her father asking about the very man she struggled to get from her mind?

  "The Duke?” She gave a slight shrug. “I think him amiable and intelligent. He was very kind to me and has sought my company since, which I must admit to being a little flattered by. Why do you ask, Papa?"

  Mr. Bennet chuckled. "Only amiable, eh? Well, well. Poor fellow. He has a long way to go in winning your affections,it seems!"

  "Winning my affections?" Elizabeth asked, sitting forward on her chair, no longer pretending to be at her ease. Her father’s wide smile made her even more uncomfortable. "Papa, you must tell me all, I beg of you."

  He chuckled "Yes, of course, my dear. As I said, the Duke called on me earlier today. He came, in fact, to apply for permission to court you."

  Air whooshed out of her lungs as she sat back, astonished by the news. "Permission to court? Me? The Duke of Windfell?" Whilst the Duke had made his affection toward her more than apparent, she had not expected him to be so foward in his attentions. They did not exactly know each other well! This was all very sudden.

  Mr. Bennet laughed. "Yes, yes, my dear Lizzy. Why should you be so amazed by that? You are quite an eligible young woman, you know."

  Elizabeth frowned. "Do not tease me so, papa! An eligible young woman for a Duke? Excuse me for speaking plainly, papa, but I am merely the daughter of a landed gentleman." She stood and began to pace the width of the room.

  "And not a wealthy one, at that,” he murmured, with a faint smile.

  “Indeed!” she exclaimed, still astonished by the news. "Why, I'm not even the eldest. Nor the prettiest, by far."

  "Now there I must interrupt. Jane is lovely, but you, my dear, possess a vivacity--a quickness of wit and a propensity to laughter that carry you far beyond her measure of beauty. And, apparently, the Duke sees as I do."

  Finding her heart even more confused, Elizabeth shook her head firmly. “Whilst I thank you for your compliments, papa, I must admit to being somewhat conflicted over this news.”

  He studied her for a moment. “You do not like him?”

  Elizabeth sighed, flopping back into her chair. She would have to be honest with her papa. “I have known him such a short time, although I will admit to finding him a very amiable gentleman thus far. It astonishes me greatly that a man of his stature would even consider me! I know nothing of his family, either!” Her stomach turned over. There was a suddenness to his attentions that were making her a little uneasy.

  "I believe I may be able to put you at ease there, my dear,” her papa began, smiling. “ have sent to your uncle in London to retain a man to look into the man a little more, for I confess my knowledge of the Dukedom is somewhat lacking. We should also receive a report of his London activities and acquaintance from which we may derive at least a small understanding of his true character. I expect the solicitor in a fortnight, or possibly less, this being a matter of some urgency." He smiled.

  Elizabeth ran a hand over her eyes. "Thank you, papa, that does give me a little more comfort.”

  He looked at her again, seeing the struggle on her face. Elizabeth shook her head, glancing at her father. “The Duke has known me less than a month. How can he be so sure of his interest? Of his heart? I know that I am not!”

  Wrinkles framed Mr. Bennet's twinkling eyes.

  "I cannot speak with regard to his heart. But, I assure you, he has a great interest in knowing you better." He stopped, regarding her silently for a moment. "It seems his interest started the moment he pulled you from the carriage."

  A silent warning slowly began to unfurl in Elizabeth’s mind. She had been so caught up with her recovery that she had not ever wondered what exactly had happened during her accident. What had occured, exactly? Why had the Duke been there, at that precise moment? Had it been simply luck, or was there more to this man than met the eye?

  "Well, what say you, Lizzy?” her father said, interrupting her thoughts. “For my part, I can see no impediment to his courtship. But, if you feel you cannot esteem him, I shall send him on his way, no matter his title. Even a prince is well below you if you cannot like his attentions."

  Elizabeth thought hard, feeling both guilty for thinking such terrible things of the Duke who had saved her life, as well as a spark of interest.

  "Shall I give consent, then?"

  It would be one way to get to know him better, she thought to herself. It would ensure I could find out exactly how he came to be on the road at the same time as myself. She lowered her eyes, thinking hard. To her surprise, Mr Darcy's face flickered in her mind. How pleasant to be sought properly, without condemnation of her family. How different the Duke was to Mr Darcy. Raising her head, she smiled at her father.

  "Yes, Papa. I believe you should. After all, the prospect of being a Duchess is no small matter, is it?"

  He laughed as he came round the desk to embrace her.

  "No, my child. It certainly is not."

  Chapter Three

  Laughter erupted across the room.

  Elizabeth looked up to see the Duke engaged in lively conversation with Mr Wickham near the fireplace. Both men glanced at her. The Duke raised his cup in a salute.

  "They seem to have become acquainted quite quickly." Jane handed Elizabeth a cup of tea.

  "Yes." Elizabeth regarded the two men, tilting her head slightly. "They do seem to enjoy one another's company. Do you know, Jane, I believe I may have misjudged Wickham."

  "Truly, Lizzy? How so?"

  "As you know I have always thought him engaging."

  "Of course, as have we all."

  Frowning, Elizabeth attempted to explain her concerns. ”Now that I see him with Windfell, it strikes me that Wickham appears a little...I cannot explain it. A little too engaging, perhaps?"

  Jane's brows drew together. "I am not sure I comprehend you. How can he be too engaging?"

  "I confess, I am struggling to explain myself,” Elizabeth sighed, still glancing at the men. “Something seems not quite right. Recall how he often seems to slip some critical remark about Mr. Darcy in his conversation?"

  Jane nodded. "I do recall. That does disturb me. I never saw anything in Mr. Darcy's behavior to bear out Wickham's assertions."

  Elizabeth smiled. "Unfortunately, I did. However that may be, it strikes me now that Wickham's openness of manner and his readiness to air his grievances are a bit too forthcoming. It is as though he wishes us to feel sorry for him, and to show a great deal of compassion for his situation. In comparison, Windfell's conversation is much more pleasant."

  Jane looked at the Duke, then b
ack at Elizabeth. Elizabeth's cheeks heated, although she kept her face serious.

  "I am sure that it is," Jane smiled. "And I am glad for it. Perhaps we should consider your instincts over Mr Wickham. You are not normally so changeable in your opinion of someone"

  Elizabeth considered this for a moment, deciding to do what Jane suggested. Turning her thoughts back to the Duke, a smile slid across Elizabeth’s face. “The Duke is to visit us in Derbyshire next week, when I am on holiday with the Gardiners." Elizabeth smiled. "I am glad of the chance for him to become better acquainted with our aunt and uncle."

  "What a lovely time you shall have. I shall have my time filled caring for my dear little cousins. At least the weather is warmer and I shall be able to keep them outside, away from Mama as much as possible." Jane hid a smile. "Poor Mama. They do try her nerves."

  "Everything tries mama’s nerves,” Elizabeth laughed. “Although I am glad the militia is to remove to Brighton. Perhaps Lydia and Kitty will be able to calm their behaviour once there are no officers to impress."

  As Elizabeth spoke, Lydia approached the Duke and Wickham. Wickham leaned down to Lydia when she touched his arm. He laughed aloud as she spoke into his ear, then stood up and shook his head. Elizabeth and Jane exchanged a look, utterly modified at their sister’s improper behaviour.

  Jane frowned. "I do hope so, Lizzy. For their sakes."

  "And ours," Elizabeth replied.

  #

  "I don't know when I've felt so exhilarated!" Elizabeth tossed her bonnet onto the table, thrilled after their day out.

  Mrs. Gardiner followed her into their hotel parlor, untying her own bonnet ribbons. She smiled.

  "I am so glad, Lizzy. I was worried you might find a visit to Derbyshire somewhat a disappointment after being promised the Lakes."

  Elizabeth shook her head fervently. "Not in the least, I assure you aunt!" she exclaimed. "I do want to see the Lakes sometime, but, Derbyshire is everything beautiful and wild. How pleasant for you to have grown up here."

  Mrs. Gardiner hung her hat on a hook near the door before settling into a comfortable-looking chair. She took up her needlework and began to stitch before replying. “I confess, I cannot argue with you there, Lizzy. I think Derbyshire the most perfect of all the counties."

  Mr. Gardiner bustled through the door, hat and cane in hand.

  "What's that? Arguing with Lizzy, my love?"

  Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth laughed.

  "No, no, uncle. We were just speaking of the beauties of Derbyshire."

  "Were you, indeed. Well, I'm glad." He set his hat on the entry table and propped his cane against it. "Speaking of beauty--what say you to vising Pemberley? It's not far from here." Mr. Gardiner rubbed his hands together before sitting at the larger table and helping himself to a scone.

  Elizabeth's stomach turned over. "Pemberley? Are we truly so near?"

  Mrs. Gardiner looked up. "Yes. I believe it is not above an hour drive. What say you, Mr. Gardiner?"

  "Oh, not far at all. A pleasant morning excursion, if you wish."

  "But, what of the family? I should feel quite awkward, I'm afraid," Elizabeth countered.

  Mr. Gardiner smiled. "I thought you might, my dear. I inquired of the landlord who told me the family are all from home at the moment. It is a beautiful house, I hear."

  "Not just the house, Mr. Gardiner, but the grounds! I believe they are said to be some of the loveliest in England."

  Now relieved of the worry that Mr Darcy might be at home, Elizabeth laughed, beginning to grow a little excited over seeing the beautiful grounds of Pemberley. "Well, far be it from me to refuse you sight of the loveliest grounds in all England, my dear aunt."

  "Shall we go in the morning, then?" Mr. Gardiner raised his eyebrows.

  Elizabeth nodded. "Yes, that will suit me very well."

  #

  "She's here, Charles." Darcy reigned in his horse and began to dismount.

  "What? Miss Elizabeth Bennet? Here at Pemberley?" Charles Bingley dismounted and flung his reins to the stable boy.

  "No, no. Not at Pemberley,” Darcy replied, rubbing a hand over his face. “Not at this moment, anyway. She and her aunt and uncle called yesterday, according to my housekeeper. She gave them quite the tour before I happened to meet them!”

  By this time, the two had reached the house and gone in, divesting themselves of hats and riding crops. So that none of their speech would reach the ears of the servants, Bingley kept silent until they reached the drawing room.

  "Do you mean to tell me that Elizabeth Bennet is in the nearby vicinity? Is Miss Jane Bennet with her?" Charles raised his brows, evidently still interested in the lady.

  "I regret to say she is not," Darcy frowned. "Miss Elizabeth is accompanied by her aunt and uncle from London. They are residing in the inn in Lampton. I must confess it was something of a surprise for us both to meet one another.” His heart slammed into his chest as he remembered how she had looked at him in astonishment, her cheeks slowly turning red.

  Bingley sat on a chair near the fireplace, nodding slowly.

  "I see,” he murmured, half to himself.

  "The rest of our party shall arrive within the week," Darcy continued, pacing up and down. "I have settled with Miss Bennet that I am to visit with Georgiana tomorrow, since my sister is so set on meeting Miss Bennet. However,I do not wish the others to know of Miss Bennet’s presence in the district until I am ready to apprise them of it."

  He turned to look at Charles. "It pains me to say so, Charles, but your sisters have at times been quite unpleasant to Miss Bennet, and I would spare her their unkindness as long as I am able."

  Bingley looked up. "Well, Darcy. You do surprise me. No, no--not about my sisters, since I know their waspish tongues better than most. They were rude to Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Hertfordshire and somewhat to Miss Jane Bennet, also."

  Darcy raised his brows.

  Bingley grinned. "What surprises me is your defence of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I thought that, when you quit Rosings, you were quite at odds with her."

  Wishing Bingley was not quite so astute, Darcy let out a long breath, aware he was going to have to be somewhat truthful with his friend. “Yes, you are correct. However, it was entirely by chance that I encountered Miss Bennet on my annual spring visit to Rosings with Fitzwilliam. We were much in company."

  Mr Bingley frowned. “That does not explain why you were left so upset with her.”

  Darcy sat across from Bingley, recalling the events. "She engaged me in conversation and allowed me to turn music for her. I confess, Bingley, my attitude and my treatment of her in Hertfordshire were unpardonably arrogant."

  Bingley's eyebrows rose to his hairline. "What? Darcy, do not tell me you have formed an attachment?"

  "Yes. I find myself quite attached, still. I fought against the feelings at first, but I have since come to realize that they are too strong to be overcome." Darcy frowned.

  "But, this is wonderful! Have you spoken to her?"

  "I have."

  "And? Come on, man!"

  "She will not have me." Darcy stood and walked to the window overlooking the lake.

  "What did you say?" The astonishment he felt was evident in his voice.

  Darcy turned to face him. "She won't have me. She refused my proposal."

  Charles shook his head. "But...why?"

  Darcy looked up at the ceiling, then back at Bingley. He gave a half-smile. "Because I am an arrogant ass, Charles."

  A smile played about Bingley's lips. "She never said that!"

  "As good as."

  "And?"

  "And I have spent the time since then in reflection. I find that I quite agree with her."

  Charles's brows rose again.

  "Do you?"

  "Yes. And if you were not so dashed sanguine about everyone, you would be able to see it, as well."

  Charles laughed. "Well, perhaps I see a little arrogance. Only occasionally, you understand. Among certain
people."

  Darcy laughed as well. "Stop it, Charles. You are making a mull of explaining yourself. It does feel good to tell someone about my feelings for Miss Bennet, even if they are unrequited." He wondered for a moment whether Mrs Collins had managed to pass on his letter to Miss Bennet, as regards Mr Wickham. He hoped she might see him in a slightly different light, now that she knew the truth.

  "You do me great honor with your trust, Darcy,” Mr Bingley said, quietly, interrupting his thoughts. “What are your plans now? You spoke with her yesterday?”

  Darcy took a breath. "Yes. I spoke with her. Unfortunately, she came upon me as I walked to the house, drenched from an impromptu swim in the pond! Once I was more presentable, we spoke and I walked the short circuit of the grounds with her and her aunt and uncle."

  "And how did you find them?"

  "They are most pleasant people. Well-educated and well-spoken. And they care a great deal for Elizabeth, which can only raise them in my esteem. My purpose was to impress upon her my attention to her rebuke. I have spent the days since Rosings examining my habits and making changes. I want her to see that, though I am undoubtedly still arrogant, I am endeavoring to change. In addition, I must ensure she received my letter and is aware of Wickham, before Georgiana says anything.”

  "What is your plan, then?" Bingley asked quietly.

  "I am to introduce her to Georgiana tomorrow, and then I shall have Georgiana invite them to tea. Perhaps we shall even have them dine with us at some point during the rest of their stay. In short, I want her to feel sure of my approbation before..."

  Bingley smiled. "Before my sisters descend upon us."

  "Exactly."

  #

  A step sounded on the stair, followed by a brisk knock on the door.

  “Allow me, uncle.” Elizabeth reached the door ahead of Mr. Gardiner and pulled it open, smiling.

  “Oh.” The smile left her face at once, surprised to see their unexpected guest. Recalling her manners, Elizabeth attempted to remove the frown from her face. "Your grace." Elizabeth curtsied as Windfell took her hand.