Netherfield Park Quarantined

by Schertz, Melanie

  Anne had joined the group before her mother’s death had been announced. She was secure in Richard’s embrace, sobbing at the loss. “That would explain a great many changes which have come in the last few years. She was not the same mother I knew in my childhood.”

  “Miss de Bourgh, I feel terrible for the way I spoke to your mother.” Elizabeth said, as she was wrapped in her husband’s arms. “Please, we are cousins now, my name is Anne. And there is no need to feel terrible. From what I have been told, by Richard, you were quite refrained in your behavior. What my mother did was unforgiveable, and I am deeply grieved for your family. But let us speak no more of my mother’s behavior. She was ill in her mind, and I wish we had been able to aid her years ago, to prevent this tragedy. Now we must move forward.”

  “Anne, you have my deepest condolences. And please, call me Elizabeth or Lizzy. I am pleased to finally be able to meet you.” The family moved down the hall to the music room. The room was rarely used, as Lady Catherine had never learned to play or sing, and she refused to allow Anne to learn, as she said it would endanger Anne’s health. Everyone took a seat, with Darcy and Elizabeth seated on the sofa next to Richard and Anne. Lord Matlock and his wife took their seat on a settee near the sofa.

  “We will need to have a funeral soon. It would be best to have it tomorrow. Darcy and Elizabeth will be returning to Longbourn today.” Lord Matlock stated. “Rebecca and I will remain here to assist you, Anne, in making all the changes you will need to deal with.”

  “I am still on leave.” Richard stated. “I will remain here, to be of aid to you as well, Anne.” Darcy looked at his wife, wondering if she was wishing to change her mind with regards to returning to Longbourn immediately. Before he said a word, Lady Matlock spoke up. “William, I know you and Elizabeth are likely thinking you should remain here to assist, or at least attend the funeral. I believe you should hold to the original plan and return to Longbourn now. Your lives have been put on hold for so long, it is time for you to be together and away from all the troubles of the world.”

  Anne nodded her head. “William, I know our uncle and aunt will be able to show me the correct path. Do not fret. Elizabeth, you still need to recover, with your arm still mending. Take the time to be together and move forward with your life together. All the struggling and pain which has tried to tear you apart is over. Please, go on with your plans.”

  With a smile on her face, Elizabeth agreed. “I believe it is time we set out for my former home.”

  ~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~~

  Chapter 19 Elizabeth and Darcy returned to Longbourn, with the plans to remain there for a fortnight, allowing their family to celebrate Christmas before traveling onwards. Afterwards, they would stay at their London home for another fortnight, before finally making their way to Pemberley.

  The Bennet family had decided to keep a very quiet holiday season, with all that had happened to their family. It was determined the Gardiner family would come to Longbourn, bringing Mrs Bennet, Kitty and Lydia with them. After the New Year, Lydia would return to London with her aunt and uncle, to continue her studies.

  After all that had happened, Elizabeth was ready to see Pemberley. Preferring to travel straight to their estate rather than spending time in Town, only Darcy’s determination to ensure her wardrobe was fitting for the much colder winters in the north was able to convince Elizabeth of the sense of the trip to London. She had been excited, as all she had heard of made her heart soar with anticipation. Darcy told her of all the wonderful sights to see, and of the people who made Pemberley what it was, leaving the new Mistress of Pemberley anxious to become a part of the estate.

  “William, we will be arriving shortly before your birthday. Is there anything specific you would wish to have as part of our celebration?” Elizabeth inquired. She had already been made aware of her husband’s reluctance to celebrate his birthday, as he did not wish to be the center of attention.

  “Dearest, having you in my arms when I awake in our bed in our home, what more could a man wish for on his birthday? I desire nothing more than your love and the joy of being at our estate.”

  “Is there no special meal you would wish to have prepared? Or a gift you would wish for?” Elizabeth had already begun to plan for what she would do if he denied anything special.

  “The cook usually makes my favorite breakfast, eggs, bacon, pastries, and fresh fruit. Otherwise, there is nothing which needs to be fussed over. And I do not require any gifts.” Darcy was beginning to blush. “Truly, Lizzy, there is no need to make any fuss over my birthday. It is not important.”

  “Not important?” Elizabeth stood in front of her husband, placing her hands on her hips. “You believe it is not important to celebrate the birth of the most wonderful, incredible and amazing man, who is also my beloved husband? I do not agree with you, though I will keep myself under regulation, for I do not intend to allow you to simply sweep your birthday under the rug as if it was nothing of importance.”

  “No parties, Lizzy, I beg of you. If I must celebrate my birthday, I wish to do so in private, with my family only. And preferably with only my wife. Would it not be wonderful to have the entire day to ourselves, hidden away in our rooms?” Darcy continued to persuade his wife of such pleasures being far more enjoyable in his mind. He wrapped his arms around Elizabeth, pulling her to his chest. “Having you with me is far better than anything you could purchase me for a gift.”

  With a smile, Elizabeth shook her head. “You are impossible, Mr Darcy. Very well, there will be no party or gatherings, and it will be family only. As much as I would wish to be just the two of us, Georgiana will be home with us as well. It would not be proper to leave her all alone while we wiled away the day in our bedchamber.”

  “I am certain Georgiana could be kept busy with lessons and such. Mrs Reynolds has already secured a new companion for Georgiana, and she will be able to keep my sister’s attention from our whereabouts.” With that, Darcy leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on his wife’s cheek.

  ~~ ** ~~ With the Gardiners arriving at Longbourn, bringing the remaining Bennets home, it was decided that Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as Georgiana, would stay at Netherfield with Bingley. The repairs, though far from finished, had made Lucas Lodge inhabitable, so the Lucas family returned to their home.

  Georgiana was thrilled to be once again with her family. She had become close to Elizabeth while they were in Ireland, and was pleased to have family with whom to celebrate the holiday season. Since the deaths of their parents, Darcy and Georgiana usually spent the holidays alone or with the Fitzwilliam family. Having the Bennets, Gardiners, Bingley, Mrs Phillips, and the Darcys all together, there was plenty of joyous frivolity.

  Darcy and Elizabeth decided to go into Meryton to shop for gifts for their family. They first visited the milliner, where they purchased items for each of their sisters. There was a new selection of ribbons and bonnets for the young ladies.

  Then the couple made their way to the confectionary shop. There were many delightful treats to choose from, and Darcy decided to celebrate after all they had survived. He had boxes made up with a wide variety of treats to be enjoyed, one box for each of his family members.

  The next stop was to the mercantile, where the Darcys found a great assortment of items for gifts. There were shawls, gloves, music boxes, cigars, and much more. Items were chosen for each person, including toys for the Gardiner children.

  For the last stop of the shopping adventure, the Darcys entered their favorite store of all. Mr Walters’ Book Emporium was filled with books, from classics to the newest editions. Knowing they would be in this shop for some time, Elizabeth had left it to the end of the trip. There were histories, poetry, novels, and more. Mr Walters had even stocked a few books for the blind, with raised lettering. “Your father informed me of Miss Lydia’s schooling and I felt it would be comforting to your sister to have something she could read for herself. Give her a boost of courage.”

  “Mr Walters,
you have always been so kind to our family.” Elizabeth stated. “Well, there are not many books out there for the blind, but I searched until I found one Miss Lydia might like. Your father and I have been the dearest of friends since childhood, so it was no trouble, only a labor of affection for the family of my old friend.”

  “I know Papa appreciates your friendship. He always has enjoyed your company and discussions.” Elizabeth smiled as she spoke to the man. For more than two hours, the couple perused the many shelves of books, finding the perfect subject for those on their list. Elizabeth took close notice of books her husband had examined which were his personal likes, as she would send a message to Mr Walters to have these items sent to her at Netherfield.

  ~~ ** ~~ Christmas Eve arrived and Longbourn was filled with liveliness and good cheer. The inhabitants of both Longbourn and Netherfield had gathered, along with their guests, and all were ready to celebrate the holiday.

  The dinner which was served was delicious, with so many choices, no one went away from the table hungry. As was tradition at Longbourn, after the dinner, the servants were given the rest of the evening to themselves to celebrate, including a meal which Mr Bennet had hired outside assistance to cook for his servants.

  After partaking of the meal, Mr Bennet proclaimed there would be no separation of the sexes that evening, and everyone made their way to the parlor. Elizabeth and Kitty, as well as both of their aunts, entertained their family members with music. Then the card tables were brought out and everyone formed groups to play.

  Well after midnight, the Netherfield party decided to make their way home. The following morning, they would join the Bennets in attending church and then everyone would return to Netherfield to enjoy a luncheon, followed by exchanging gifts.

  Netherfield was filled with chatter and excitement as each person was given their gifts. Georgiana, Kitty, and Lydia were thrilled with the gifts of ribbons, bonnets, gloves, and books which Darcy and Elizabeth gave them. Mrs Bennet was pleased with the cashmere shawl she received, and the new threads and fabric for creating items.

  Mr Bennet enjoyed his new gloves, cigars and books. He laughed when he saw the books, as he had asked his friend if the very same books had been delivered to the book shop, and Mr Walters stated his shipment had been delayed. “Ah, I see my old friend is as conniving as ever, seeking to surprise me. What a delight to receive these books, as I have wished to begin reading them for some time.”

  “You know I am friends with Mr Walters as well, Papa. He was very pleased to be of assistance to me.” Elizabeth said, a slight bit smug at her ability to surprise her father.

  “My dear girl, how I have missed our daily debates and discussions.” Mr Bennet smiled. “And, in a few months, I will be losing Jane as well. All sensible conversation will be at an end with the two of you moved away.”

  “Bennet, you are always welcome to visit us at Pemberley.” Darcy stated. “Ah, to visit Pemberley, and that grand library of which I have heard so much. I believe I will find a need for a visit soon enough.” Mr Bennet replied. “Well, I know Netherfield’s library is in a sad state of affairs, but now I have the beginning of a grand library, thanks to my good friend and my future sister.” Bingley said as he held up one of the volumes the Darcys had gifted him.

  “Yes, Bingley, we needed to bring you to a respectable standard for your library, or else Bennet might revoke his agreement for you to marry his daughter.” Darcy said with a laugh.

  “If that was the case, I would go to Meryton and purchase every book in Mr Walter’s shop this very day.” With this statement from Bingley, everyone in the room began to laugh.

  ~~ ** ~~ With the holidays over, the Darcys made their way to London. In the time they planned to stay in Town, they had shopping excursions, as well as evenings at the theater and opera, and days visiting museums and exhibits. Except for the shopping, Elizabeth was excited for the plans her husband had made. Though the Season had not come, there were some of the families from the north who preferred to winter in Town where the weather was not as severe.

  As expected, as soon as word circulated of the Darcys being in Town, invitations began to arrive for dinner parties, a few balls, and other gatherings. All of society was wishing to meet the new Mistress of Pemberley, as Elizabeth was an unknown entity amongst the ton. Darcy decided, before their arrival, that they would not accept any invitations during the fortnight, as he wished to spend his time with his family, especially his wife.

  Each morning, ladies would come to pay a call on Elizabeth. Rather than allow his wife to be alone during these calls, as Lady Matlock was still at Rosings with Anne and Lord Matlock, Darcy took the time from his work to be at Elizabeth’s side. Some of ladies wished to be critical or nasty in their attitude towards the daughter of an unknown country squire, for Elizabeth was seen by many as having stolen the prize bachelor in all England. Darcy expected such, as he knew how many young ladies had tried desperately to capture him as their own. With him at Elizabeth’s side, no one would dare treat her with disrespect.

  Knowing his wife would not order the amount of clothing he deemed necessary, Darcy escorted his wife to the modiste. This was quite shocking, as most husbands preferred to avoid such activities. He brought with him a book to keep himself occupied, though he planned to be involved with the designs and fabrics chosen, as he wished to show off his beautiful wife.

  The couple arrived at Mrs Culliver’s shop and were immediately shown into a private room. Darcy had made arrangements, informing the modiste of his plans to see his wife acquire a large number of gowns and undergarments. Mrs Culliver had only recently opened her shop, due to the assistance of Lady Matlock. Rebecca Fitzwilliam was one who did not care what others looked for in a modiste, nor did she mind a lady who was starting out in a location others would consider beneath them in which to shop. Mrs Culliver’s shop was located in Cheapside, not far from Mr Gardiner’s warehouse. In fact, Mr Gardiner was one of her suppliers of fine imported fabric and lace. Lady Matlock had heard of Mrs Culliver from her lady’s maid, who happened to be Mrs Culliver’s sister. The maid brought one of her sister’s creations for Lady Matlock to inspect, which was the day Mrs Culliver became Lady Matlock’s primary source of gowns.

  Darcy was pleased with the shop’s cleanliness and cheery demeanor. Mrs Culliver was a middle aged widow with three daughters to support, so having clients such as Lady Matlock and the Darcy ladies were a blessing to her. Learning of Elizabeth’s relationship to the Gardiners brought a fondness to the woman as she easily conversed with her of people they both knew. Mrs Gardiner was known to Mrs Culliver as well, as they belonged to a group of ladies who were working towards starting a school for the children in their neighborhood.

  Nearly five hours passed before Darcy was certain his wife had ordered enough clothing for their new life together. As they left, Elizabeth showed Darcy to the Gardiner warehouse, where they spent several moments visiting with Mr Gardiner. An invitation was issued to dine with the Gardiners at their home the following week, as well as for the Gardiners to join the Darcys at the theater in two days.

  Rather than stopping at a tea shop for some refreshments, Elizabeth preferred to return to Darcy House, as she was quite fatigued from the adventure. Darcy was concerned, as Elizabeth had never tired so easily, though he kept his opinion to himself.

  ~~ ** ~~ Elizabeth noticed her new sister seemed to be reluctant to spend time with the couple. At first, she thought perhaps Georgiana was just nervous. But as time went on, Elizabeth grew concerned.

  One day, while Georgiana was practicing in the music room, Elizabeth decided to speak with her.

  “Georgiana, are you well?”

  The young girl turned towards Elizabeth, a frown on her face. “I am well, Lizzy. Do I appear unwell?” “No, dearest, I just was concerned with how little time you have been spending with your brother and myself. I thought you would have enjoyed attending the opera last night.”

  A blush grew on Georgiana’s
cheeks. “I have just been trying to give you and William time alone. I read that newlywed couples who love each other prefer to be alone with each other rather than have to socialize.”

  Curious of her sister’s reading material, Elizabeth inquired as to where Georgiana had read such information. Her sister’s eyes grew round with fright.

  “Oh, Lizzy, please do not tell William. I…I purchased a book recently, and I…I do not think my brother would approve of it.” “What sort of book did you purchase? Certainly not something which discussed marital relations?” Elizabeth asked with concern. Her sister was far too young to be learning about such matters.

  Georgiana turned her eyes away from Elizabeth, turning an even brighter shade of red.

  “How could you have purchased such a book? I am sure the man at the bookshop would not have sold such to a girl of your age.” “I…I had someone purchase it for me.”

  Elizabeth was shocked. “And just who would do such a thing?”

  “Please, Lizzy, please, do not ask me to tell you. I do not wish to cause them trouble. I only wished to know more, so I might behave appropriately to allow you and William to have a proper marriage. I know I am a burden to my brother, and now to you, and I wished to lessen such.”

  “Georgiana, you are not a burden. Your brother loves you dearly, and has never felt you to be a burden. And I love you as well. You are as dear to me as the sisters with whom I share parents. We have had time alone, but we do not wish to exclude you from our family. When we attend the theater and opera, or visit exhibits, we dearly want to share these experiences with you. Now, I will ask you to bring this book to me and I will take care of it, so your brother does not learn of it.”

  Georgiana nodded her head. She quickly left the room, returning shortly with a wrapped package in her hand.

  “From now on, if you wish to discuss subjects such as this, please, come and speak with me.” Elizabeth said as she held her sister’s gaze. “I will, Lizzy. Thank you so very much. I am so pleased my brother fell in love with you.” Georgiana said as she embraced her sister suddenly. It was then that Elizabeth realized just how sheltered the young girl was, and the lack of a mother had made a mark on her. Yes, Lady Matlock and Mrs Reynolds at Pemberley had taken care to be there for her, but Georgiana needed someone to turn to and trust. This would be Elizabeth’s role in her sister’s life. She would be the mother figure she required. And after the betrayal of Mrs Younge, Georgiana needed to know she could trust Elizabeth.