by AmyJ
"And Lady Catherine?"
Darcy's blood boiled at the reminder of the visit to Kent. "She reacted exactly as I expected." He pursed his lips for a moment. "She was not happy and refuses to acknowledge our engagement."
Elizabeth cringed. She did not want to be the cause for familial discord. She looked down at the ring on her finger. She was posed ready to remove it.
"Li'l Beth, please," Darcy implored, closing her hand around the ring. "Lady Catherine would have reacted that way if I were to marry a duchess. She was determined to see Anne and me marry. Once the bargain was struck, I know she thought I would relent and agree to marry Anne."
"Fitzwilliam, are you certain you wish to go through with this? I do not want to cause a rift in your family."
"I am. The earl and the countess will gladly welcome you into the family. I have no fear in that regard. Lady Catherine is reacting as I suspected she
would. Do not worry. I will not allow her near you until she is willing to pay you your due."
Feeling a little mollified, Elizabeth continued her descent. The two talked about the goings-on in London, the formal engagement announcement, and other
inanities until they neared the fork in the road.
"I will call later this morning to speak with your father. Would that be acceptable?"
Elizabeth nodded.
"Richard is with me, as is Georgiana. I will bring them with as well."
"I should like that."
Bucking up his courage, Darcy took her hand and placed the briefest and
chastest of kisses on it. He dropped it immediately afterwards and stepped
back, bracing himself for her reaction. He was pleased when she only turned crimson and looked away.
After an awkward silence, Elizabeth said with a nervous chuckle, "I suppose that is the way of things now."
Not sure of what to say, Darcy only nodded, unable to look at her. "I will see you later," he mumbled.
Still unable to meet his eye, Elizabeth nodded and then hurried down the road towards Longbourn.
Darcy watched her for a few moments and then mounted his horse, feeling not a little relief. She had taken that first kiss well. Perhaps this courting thing will not be so difficult.
As promised, Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana arrived at Longbourn later that morning. Kitty was the first to notice the arrival of visitors. "Oh Mama! Look at the barouche! It is so very grand... and the matching horses!"
she exclaimed.
Elizabeth looked to Jane and saw the look of anticipation. Her heart ached, knowing her sister would be disappointed. She had not had time to speak with Jane in private since her discussion with Darcy.
Before long, Hill announced, "Mr. Darcy, Miss Darcy, and Colonel
Fitzwilliam."
As the guests were announced, Elizabeth kept a sly eye on Jane. She cringed when she saw Jane's shoulders slump. Unsure of what else to do, she squeezed Jane's hand affectionately. "Perhaps he was only delayed," she whispered.
Though Jane nodded in response, Elizabeth could tell she did not believe her.
For better or for worse, the conversation ended there, as Elizabeth's attention was garnered by an excited Georgiana.
After a brief exchange of hugs between the women, Darcy introduced his
cousin. While the others were greeting the colonel, Darcy took up a position next to Elizabeth and greeted her with a brief kiss on the hand and then
continued to hold it a little longer than he had that morning. It was not long before they gave into the awkwardness of the situation and stepped apart.
Elizabeth could not help but blush throughout the exchange and prayed no one else had seen them. Darcy's behaviour would be quite difficult to explain given no one else knew of their engagement.
Recollecting herself, Elizabeth turned to watch as her mother guided the
seating arrangements. She grimaced, seeing her mother seat the colonel next Lydia and Lydia's delighted reaction. The man is twice her age, and all she sees is the uniform! And mother only encourages her!
Believing the colonel would not let things escalate beyond the bounds of
decorum, she turned her attention to Georgiana and Darcy. After some light
talk of the weather, Darcy took his leave to speak with Mr. Bennet.
Elizabeth continued to entertain Georgiana, all the while stealing looks at Jane.
It was difficult to maintain an upbeat appearance at the sight. Jane's
disappointment was written on every feature. The way she stared at her skirts and the way her smile never reached her eyes. She knew Jane was thinking
about Mr. Bingley.
From the other side of the room, Elizabeth heard Lydia's unladylike snort and sent her eyes skyward for a moment. She looked over at Colonel Fitzwilliam, and despite sitting next to Lydia, was amused to find his gaze was assuredly fixed on Jane. She was not sure what to make of it.
Lydia's poor behaviour served as a reminder of their encounters with Mr.
Wickham. So, when Darcy returned to the room, she suggested a walk out in
the gardens.
As they were heading out the door, Elizabeth caught Darcy's arm. "I need to speak with you," she whispered. Darcy nodded in acknowledgement.
The group wandered in the garden for a while. Jane, as Elizabeth had hoped, was walking and talking with the colonel, though Lydia was there as well,
leaving Darcy and Georgiana with her.
Needing some privacy, Elizabeth called out, "Lydia, why do you not show Miss Darcy your new bonnet. Perhaps she can help you decide what changes to
make."
She turned to Miss Darcy, who wore a puzzled expression. "Forgive me,
Georgiana. I need to speak with your brother for a moment. You do not mind, do you?"
Georgiana returned a sly smile. "Of course not, Elizabeth." She quickly joined Lydia, who was already heading towards the house.
Elizabeth watched as the two made their way into the house and then did
another cursory look to locate Jane and the colonel.
Finally alone enough to talk, Elizabeth asked, "Did my father agree to the terms?"
"He did. He still has reservations, but did not withdraw his consent." He offered Elizabeth his arm, and then said, "When did you wish to inform the others?"
"I shall tell my mother tonight. She will most likely be rather vocal in her sentiments, and I would not wish you to have to suffer that."
Darcy thanked her for her consideration. "My cousin knows; I shall tell Georgiana tonight as well."
Having settled the announcement of their engagement, Darcy said, "But that is not what you wished to discuss with me is it?"
"No." She took a deep breath, knowing the topic would be uncomfortable. "I intended to tell you this earlier, but forgot. The militia has taken up residence in Meryton."
Darcy shrugged, not seeing a problem. It was common to see the militia from time to time, especially since England was at war. "We saw a number of soldiers when we arrived."
"Fizzy, Mr. Wickham is amongst them. He visited Longbourn only yesterday."
Immediately, Darcy's visage grew darker. "I wanted to warn you before
Georgiana saw him."
There were several minutes of tense silence. Finally, Darcy said, "Thank you, Li'l Beth. You understand, I can not allow Georgiana to continue visiting,
knowing that scoundrel may be present."
"Of course. I tried to explain things to my father, and though he does not care for the man, he sees no harm in his visits." Quietly she added, "I have not told him about Georgiana."
Darcy nodded and squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Thank you. I shall take care of it."
He strode purposefully over to the colonel and whispered in his ear. The look of alarm, followed by a vengeful scowl told Elizabeth that Darcy was relaying the news of Wickham to Colonel Fitzwilliam. Abruptly, Darcy said, "Forgive us, ladies, but we must be going."
&n
bsp; Just before leaving, Darcy said in a low voice. "I will keep you informed of our plans."
Chapter Fifteen
After seeing Georgiana on her way back to Netherfield, safely in the custody of the colonel, Darcy proceeded to Longbourn's study. Before knocking on the
heavy wooden door, he took a moment to collect his thoughts.
"Forgive me, Mr. Bennet, for disturbing you, but a matter of grave importance has been brought to my attention."
Intrigued, Mr. Bennet sat up in his chair, closed his book, and motioned his visitor to a seat. "You have discovered my Lizzy is still enjoys running and reading books unsuitable for women and wish to give her back?"
Darcy chuckled. "Not at all." His mien turned serious. "Eliz... Miss Elizabeth has informed me that Mr. Wickham is in the neighbourhood and has made the
acquaintance of your daughters."
Mr. Bennet shrugged indifferently. "Do not fret. I am aware he is fond of the drink and a gambler; but my daughters have little to offer such a man. Let them have their flirtations, the militia will depart soon enough."
Darcy drew himself up in his chair. "If Wickham's vices were only gambling and the drink, I would not be speaking with you now." At the arch of Mr.
Bennet's brow, he continued. "I am not certain how Wickham has come to join the militia, but you should know the last time he left Lambton, he left behind debts totalling over 350 pounds." He paused for a moment, and then added grimly, "and with more than one girl's reputation."
At last, Mr. Bennet showed some parental emotion. He bolted upright in his
chair. "That scoundrel!"
The younger man stood and began pacing, unsure he wanted to reveal the rest.
Understanding Mr. Bennet's daughters were soon to become his sisters though, he said, "There is more." Without waiting for any further reaction, he plunged ahead and told Mr. Bennet of Georgiana's near elopement.
"That blackguard!" Mr. Bennet wiped his mouth roughly in fury. "He shall not come within a hundred yards of this house! Nor will any other red coat!" After taking a steadying deep breath, he added, "I thank you, Darcy. Have no fear, I will not betray your confidence, though I feel I must warn the others in the neighbourhood. Our merchants are not well off; any large debt left unpaid
could ruin them."
Having survived the worst of the conference, Darcy sat again. "If you would warn the merchants and perhaps some of your neighbours, I will see to it that Wickham is removed from the neighbourhood."
"If you do not mind me saying, this is beyond the realm of your authority. You have already saved this neighbourhood a great deal of distress. We can take it from here."
"Mr. Wickham was my father's godson. The time for overlooking his
transgressions has passed. I should have unveiled his nature long ago. I will not allow him to harm me or my family any longer; and I will see he is removed
from the neighbourhood."
"And how exactly do you propose to do that? I was not aware Colonel Forster took orders from you."
Darcy had the grace to show some embarrassment. "You are correct. But after Colonel Forster hears of Wickham's misdeeds, I do not think he will have any trouble releasing him from the militia."
"I see. And what inducement will you give Mr. Wickham to leave the area? I doubt he will go quietly after having his livelihood taken away."
"I have not yet formulated a plan. I had thought to speak to my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam." Wryly he added, "Since Wickham seems to be fond of the uniform, perhaps a position in the regulars could be arranged, preferably with a regiment that is headed for the continent."
"And I suppose you intend to purchase his commission?"
"Yes. He is my responsibility."
Mr. Bennet sighed. "You take too much on yourself, but I doubt there is anything I can say that will sway you."
"No, sir." After a moment, Darcy added, "If you have no objection, I would ask you to accompany Colonel Fitzwilliam and me when we speak with Colonel
Forster. As a fellow officer, I believe my cousin's word will carry a great deal of weight. However, it would allow you the opportunity to speak on behalf of your estate and the neighbourhood in general."
"Very well, when will you and your cousin be available for this call?"
"Tomorrow would be best. It would give me a chance to discuss our options with my cousin. Perhaps by then we will have formulated a plan."
"Very well, Darcy. Tomorrow it is."
"Thank you, sir." Darcy stood to leave, but was forestalled.
"Darcy, as you are engaged to my daughter, and anything you do may affect my daughter, I would like to be kept apprised of your plans for disposing of Mr.
Wickham."
"Of course." With that, Darcy bowed and left Longbourn.
Late that afternoon, Elizabeth found Jane alone in their room. "I am sorry, Jane," she said softly.
"I am fine, Lizzy. But pray, did Mr. Darcy say anything about Mr. Bingley?"
Elizabeth took a seat on the window bench next to Jane. She could tell her
sister was disappointed, but acting brave. "Mr. Darcy only said his business kept him in London." Hesitantly she added, "He was uncertain, but he does not think Mr. Bingley will return until after Christmas."
Jane nodded slowly. "What did Mr. Darcy say to the colonel earlier that made him so cross? I have never seen a man become angry so quickly!"
My poor, Jane. You deserved so much better. Knowing her sister had intentionally changed the subject, Elizabeth replied, "I can not tell you everything; only know that Mr. Wickham is not a good man."
"But he claimed to know the Darcys, and you said you knew him as well."
"I do know him; he was the late Mr. Darcy's godson and namesake.
Unfortunately, he has not turned out at all like his father or the late Mr. Darcy.
He is a wastrel who drinks and gambles, often beyond his means."
"Surely he can not be as awful as you make him, Lizzy. Father would never let him in the house if he was as bad as that."
Of course you would believe that, Janey. "Father did not know everything about Mr. Wickham until Fitzwilliam told him this morning. Do not be
surprised if he does not allow that man in the house again."
"But what does Mr. Wickham's drinking and gambling have to do with Mr.
Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam?"
Elizabeth debated how much to tell Jane. She had no doubt her sister would
hold it in confidence, but it was not her story to her tell. Hesitantly, she spoke of some of Wickham's exploits with maids and shop-keepers' daughters while
Wickham and Darcy were at Cambridge together. "I can not go into any more
particulars, but suffice it to say Fitzwilliam does not want him anywhere near Georgiana."
"But surely he would not try something with a gentleman's daughter! What of Kitty and Lydia?" Jane asked fully alarmed.
"I do not believe he makes distinctions in rank when making conquests. It is why I have been careful to remain in the room when Wickham was around,"
came the dark reply. She did not like to alarm her sister, but needed to impress upon her the importance of keeping a watchful eye on their younger siblings.
"Very well, Lizzy. I shall endeavour to do the same."
There was still a note of disbelief in her tone that Elizabeth chose to ignore. "I would not be overly concerned, Jane. I believe Fitzwilliam and the colonel will take care of the matter."
"You do not mean they would call him out, do you?"
"No. They will only see that Wickham is sent away on special assignment or something of that sort, and that Colonel Forster knows to keep a close eye on him."
After a pause, Jane said, "So it is all settled between you and Mr. Darcy then."
"The marriage contract was signed this morning, the banns shall be read, and an announcement in the paper will appear soon." She received a hug from her sister, though it lacked its usual enthusiasm.
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"Do not fret, Jane. I am content with my decision. Fitzwilliam shall prove to be a most amusing fiancé, will he not?" With a mischievous grin she added, "I have made him promise to dance at every assembly with someone other than
myself."
Jane laughed for the first time since their conversation began. "If the two of you make it to the altar unscathed, it will be a miracle."
That evening, Elizabeth informed her mother of her engagement to Darcy. Mrs.
Bennet's reaction did not disappoint. "What a clever girl you are Lizzy!"
Though she could not help lamenting she had thought it would be Jane who
would marry first. "But never mind that... What carriages, what pin money you shall have! And a house in town! Ten thousand a year, and likely more! I shall go distracted! I must tell Lady Lucas. Now what can she say, her Charlotte
settling for that old parson! You must invite Mr. Darcy to dinner tomorrow, and I shall see to acquiring some fish. A daughter married by special license! We must go to London for your trousseau. Mr. Darcy, I am certain, is used to only the finest."
Elizabeth bore her mother's effusions with aplomb. It was a rather easy task since all she was required to do was occasionally nod and smile. Mrs. Bennet
was talking so quickly, Elizabeth could not have put in a word had she wished to.
After listening to her mother for several minutes, Elizabeth quietly took her leave. She had no doubt there would be a repeat of this tomorrow when her
engagement was announced to the rest of the family. She would not miss
anything by going to her room now.
Besides, she wanted to check on Jane. Despite the serene countenance her
sister wore, Elizabeth knew she was sorely disappointed. She prayed Mr.
Bingley's excuses were valid, and he would soon send word of his intentions to return. He would have a lot to answer for if he did not.
Unfortunately, by the time Elizabeth made it to her room, Jane had already
extinguished the candles and was curled up under the blankets. She kissed her sister's head and then crawled under the counterpane herself.
At Netherfield the following morning, a knock on the white washed door was