by Kay Mares
“Yes Lizzy, Charles fostered much goodwill in the neighborhood, but I would be remiss if I did not add your Mr. Darcy was complimented too. He has made inroads with everyone in the town, and most have accepted your union is based on affection, not material gain.”
“I am glad to hear that. I made you aware of Mr. Idle’s ridiculous claims. He sure made himself scarce after I let him know what I thought of his pompous attitude.” Lizzy shakes her head at his folly.
“How angry was Mr. Darcy when he found out about Mr. Idle accosting you? I cannot imagine he would be anything other than indignant.” Jane’s curiosity is evident.
“Jane, you will find this amusing. As I let Mr. Idle know in no uncertain terms where my loyalties lie in addition to my love for Fitzwilliam, I did not realize Fitzwilliam came behind me. He heard the whole conversation, and as I backed up to leave Mr. Idle’s presence, I stepped into Fitzwilliam’s chest. I looked up expecting to see a seriously vexed fiancé instead he was standing there with that amused upturn to his mouth which I have come to adore. He said he appreciated my vigorous defense of his character and allowed me to handle the exchange as I saw fit. He did admit to a desire to settle things physically if need be but thankfully it never came to that. I noted Mr. Idle was becoming more nervous, but I did not believe my words had much of an impact. It was then I questioned Fitzwilliam regarding his posture towards Mr. Idle. He owned to giving Mr. Idle one of his more infamous glowers and a piercing stare. He admitted to finding my exchange with Mr. Idle diverting.” Lizzy gazes out at the scenery for a brief moment before turning her attention back to her sister. “Jane, he so trusts me and at no time does he want me to be anything other than his Lizzy. Could it be too good to be true? Remember how I often lamented to you until I had your goodness, I would not know your happiness? Now while you smile, I laugh!”
“Lizzy, I am so happy for you and Mr. Darcy. I know both of us will have that rarest of marriages, a union of love. I am so fortunate as are you and we will both be thankful for the gift of such fine men.” Jane’s gaze wanders to the riding men to take in the profile of her beloved Charles. A slight smile creeps across her face as Lizzy asks her a question.
“What do you think of meeting Fitzwilliam’s aunt and uncle, Lord, and Lady Matlock? I would not wish to be found wanting, but I have some fear after his Aunt Catherine’s visit. Colonel Fitzwilliam has given me to know his parents do not hold with Lady Catherine’s opinions on many matters. I am glad our aunt and uncle will be there to meet them as well, we can always trust their good sense and manners.”
“I do not fear for you Lizzy, when they meet you, they will be charmed by you and will readily see why Mr. Darcy has chosen you. You were wise to insist on the Gardiners accompanying us while giving Mama enough wedding minutiae to keep her occupied at home. Charles has met the Matlocks in the past and said while they can be imposing figures, they are not above their company nor are they haughty. He felt at ease in their presence, but then again, Charles is easy with everyone.”
“What you say is true, your Mr. Bingley is a sonsy man. He is agreeable no matter where he finds himself.” Lizzy draws a small sigh. “I understand Fitzwilliam’s nature better than ever, but I feel saddened for him-knowing he is never truly comfortable in large gatherings. Can you imagine what he went through first losing his mother while being a young boy, then while attending his studies he managed to support his sister? As his father started to groom him to be the next Master of Pemberley and had him assume some responsibilities, he lost his father suddenly. It was daunting enough to maintain Pemberley, and he did so admirably, but he also had to give solace to a grieving sister. How he managed without anyone to succor him and speak to his pain, I cannot fathom. When I think of what Wickham tried to do to his sister in the name of revenge, it just sickens me. At all times Fitzwilliam acted honorably and with fairness. I understand his reticence because, without it, many would have made moves against him. Instead of becoming bitter and cruel, he learned to be guarded, but he still maintains a wonderful wit and sense of humor which has delighted me at every turn.”
Jane concurs with Lizzy about the heartache Darcy has endured but also pointed out to Lizzy a lifting of Darcy’s somber moods which she attributes to Lizzy’s place in his life. Lizzy shared with Jane the Colonel’s most recent ploy at the ball which set up Darcy to dance with their mother. Both enjoy a guilty laugh but acknowledge that Darcy handled their mother with the utmost tact.
The carriage rolled up to the Gardiner townhouse, and the Gardiners receive their nieces and the gentlemen with civility and warmth. Mr. Gardiner is especially pleased to reacquaint himself with Darcy and he remains indebted to him for his part is saving Lydia. The Gardiners are also eager to learn more of Mr. Bingley, and they engage him in conversation as well. Both of them are delighted when they note the ease of manners Darcy now sports in Elizabeth’s presence. All too soon the gentlemen make their excuses to return to their respective townhomes. Darcy and Bingley will have much work to catch up on while the ladies shop from their wedding paraphilia. Colonel Fitzwilliam is expected to return soon to the area as well.
The sisters are up early and find their aunt and uncle ready to begin the day. The carriage ride about London offered many sites and fine shopping. Mr. Gardiner is instrumental in attaining the best fabrics and laces while keeping an eye on costs. Some of the merchants are startled on hearing the name of Lizzy’s fiancé. Lizzy knew Darcy holds a fine reputation but all the deference suddenly given to her is disconcerting. Mrs. Gardiner jests at Lizzy’s innocence while schooling her about the new position.
By the time Jane, Lizzy and the Gardiners made their way to the Matlock residence, Lizzy has put most of her trepidation behind her. The Matlocks’ London home is large and imposing with affluence written all about it. But the Matlocks manage to make the grand house have a welcoming feeling. The Matlocks themselves are stately and hold themselves with poise and confidence. The introductions take place in the grand foyer with Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy, Miss Darcy and Bingley already in attendance. The party was ushered into a large parlor where drinks are offered before the meal. Mr. Gardiner and Lord Matlock soon enter a conversation about local business being both men find they have mutual associates.
Darcy takes a seat between his sister and Miss Elizabeth while attending to his aunt’s conversation with the ladies. Lady Matlock is engaging and genuine in her desire to better acquaint herself with Miss Elizabeth. Lady Matlock finds Elizabeth to be without false pretenses. Lady Matlock had watched over the years as Lady Anne’s son had drawn more into himself with each blow to his heart. The loss of his parents was harsh and little could be done to pull him from the grief which seemed to consume more of him. Now watching him at ease with the family as well as with Elizabeth’s family, Lady Matlock begins to relish the idea that Darcy finally found the one woman who will complete him. Henry enlightened her regarding the hope Darcy had lost at Hunsford and she was aware of the injury and subsequent fever he endured after being shot. Lady Matlock can only feel gratitude for Miss Elizabeth as she alone brought comfort to her nephew when he was so ill. Henry had confided to his mother that he feared Darcy would not have recovered if Miss Elizabeth did not return to him. As the party repairs into the dining room, the Matlocks are pleased to note the proper manners of the ladies and they take the opportunity to observe their nephew and the Gardiner party. Darcy is far more relaxed than usual, enters conversation more willingly and holds a rapport with Elizabeth’s uncle. Mrs. Gardiner earns their approval by encouraging Miss Darcy in conversation while Elizabeth smiles and asks after Georgiana’s interests and studies. Soon Miss Darcy is offering dialogue without any prompting from the other women. Lady Matlock especially feels Elizabeth will be a wonderful sister to Miss Darcy. Miss Bennet offers Miss Darcy compliments which are genuine, and Miss Darcy feels her own worth.
After supper the gentlemen separate for some discussion of business, however, they soon return to the ladies’ comp
any in the parlor. In the hallway outside of the parlor, Lord Matlock motions for Darcy to linger behind. “Darcy, I have to say I like your Miss Elizabeth very well. She gives me mind of my sister, your mother, who had a quick wit. Your father was enraptured with Lady Anne as much as you are with Miss Elizabeth. I am not surprised you succumbed to her charms. You and she shall do well. Her uncle is a man I can respect and even though he is in the trades, well-we need good men such as him; he runs his businesses with honor and integrity. Miss Bennet is quiet, but with such gentle manners, you saw how she noted your sister’s worth? Mrs. Gardiner is a fine woman who honors her husband. I will be thrilled to tell the rest of the family you have found a woman who best suits you. I will be pleased to call her family. Most of all, the lady esteems you and seems not to think of your wealth but rather is more enamored with you. You have found someone who sees past what Society deems important, and she will be a partner to you. When I first heard reports of you aligning yourself with a poor match, I had worries you proposed to Miss Bingley. I was fully prepared to let you know that both Lady Matlock and I felt such a match would be a drastic mistake for you. She is mercenary, and you would soon know bitterness and disappointment.” Lord Matlock put his hand on Darcy’s shoulder. He admires how Darcy has grown and managed Pemberley but much like his wife before, he fretted over Darcy’s continual unhappiness.
Darcy nods gravely. His aunt and uncle know his disposition well enough to know he would be miserable with Caroline. He seeks to address his next concern with the man who is the closest person he has to a father. “What of Lady Catherine?” Darcy asks. “As you know, she has made her displeasure known to any who would listen.”
“Do not worry about her!” comes the adamant reply from Lady Matlock who left the parlor to seek Darcy for her own conversation. “She would be unhappy with anyone you chose to wed, and I never recalled Lady Anne saying she wished for you and your cousin Anne to marry. Lady Anne spoke to me instead of her exasperation with Lady Catherine’s maneuverings in the family. As my Lord husband stated to you, we are delighted with your Miss Elizabeth, and we give our approval. We will be more than pleased to announce to the rest of the family your good fortune. We look forward to attending your nuptials, Fitzwilliam, fret not.” Lady Matlock slides her hand around her husband’s arm as she comes to his side.
“Indeed, my good wife speaks the truth. For too long have I allowed Catherine free rein to force her opinions onto others. I am long overdue for a talk with her. As the head of the family, I was most displeased to hear of her attempted dominion over you and her poor behavior towards the Bennet family. She will hear from me.” Lord Matlock announces.
“Fitzwilliam, your dear mother charged me with a request before she left this earth. She knew you to be too serious, often hiding your gentle soul and compassion from others. She worried your responsibilities would consume you, what you felt to be your duty in choosing a wife, so she charged me to make sure you found the same happiness which she found with your father. You have done this with Miss Elizabeth. I see the contented yet a little mischievous young man I remember showing himself when Miss Elizabeth is near you. Be happy. Your parents would approve.” Lady Matlock turns to go back to the parlor where the guests await.
“Thank you, Uncle, for your support and kind words. I am thankful you and Lady Matlock see what Elizabeth does for me. I have tried to be a good Master of Pemberley, and I feel with Elizabeth at my side, I will be able to achieve more for the estate and the people who depend upon it.”
“I heartily agree, my boy. Just think of Lady Catherine’s dismay when Henry makes his intentions known regarding Cousin Anne. Lady Catherine has stifled the girl for too long; she will do well with Henry as her husband. Lady Catherine will not take easily to the dowager house. I have more than your betrothal to speak to her of. She will not be a barrier to her daughter finding happiness.”
“I do not envy you THAT conversation, Uncle,” Darcy says with a wry grin.
Darcy and Lord Matlock return to the parlor where the ladies are setting up to entertain. Georgiana plays for both Jane and Elizabeth to sing. Darcy closes his eyes as he lets Elizabeth’s voice wash over him. He remembered her singing at Pemberley then her turning pages while Georgiana played the piano. How she looked over at him, and he felt her reaching out to him. The thought of such contentment had him overcome with peace. The conversation now turns to the musical talents of the men. Mr. Bingley attempts a song but soon contents himself with turning the pages for Jane to play. Henry decides to jest a bit with his cousin.
“Fitz, why don’t you grace us with a song? Or perhaps you could show your talents on the pianoforte?” Henry asks cheekily.
Darcy glares at Henry while Lady Matlock interjects, “Come now Henry that is unfair as you well know after Fitzwilliam would oblige us, you would have to do the same, and as your mother, I can attest to your lack of musical talent. Now storytelling is more your forte. I am sure, Miss Elizabeth, these boys have enlightened you to their ongoing need to set each other up?” Elizabeth nods as Lady Matlock continues, “I can imagine they have told you of the balls and the famous horse ride?”
“Yes Your Ladyship, they were most eager to share the stories with me however there were some glaring differences in the tales told by each man. I cannot account for this,” she finishes good-naturedly.
“You will find this is the way with them but what neither will admit is that both Fitzwilliam’s dear parents, as well as myself and Lord Matlock, were aware of their designs to disassemble to us to put one another in an uncomfortable situation. We found their little ploys amusing, and while we pretended to be upset, in reality, we enjoyed their machinations.” Lady Matlock sports a bemused smile on her face as she looks at Henry and Darcy.
“I found Father was not at all amused when Henry caused me to be unhorsed. Lord Whemberley and his wife were visiting. The Earl was to discuss a serious business venture with Father, and I was to be the model of a proper young gentleman. My Father’s chagrin and Mother’s horror at the condition I was in and presented to the esteemed guests was not imagined.” Darcy sniffs. “The apology I made was lengthy and humbling.”
“Fitz, you handled the apology with aplomb, and your father was able to conduct his business with the Earl. So no real harm was done.”
“Then suffice it to say no real harm was done when YOU choose to dance the night away with the fine lady Colin wanted to court,” Darcy counters.
“You boys are still having that same tired old argument? I would have thought by now you would be over the hijinks of your youth,” Lord Matlock chortles. Everyone in the room is amused by the friendly rivalry between Henry and Darcy. For Elizabeth to see the familiarity which the Matlocks hold for Fitzwilliam eases her mind as to how accepting they will be of her joining to him. While their interchanges are not as raucous as what would occur at Longbourn, they are congenial and good spirited. Lord Matlock even reminds Henry about the letter Fitzwilliam had sent to him chronicling the horse ride event and the subsequent trouble Fitzwilliam got into. Henry flushes a bit as his father recalls Henry’s own discomfiture once Lord Matlock took him to task for setting Fitzwilliam up.
As the evening continued, Elizabeth hears more childhood stories of Darcy and Henry some of which included a young Anne de Bourgh. Henry delights in the retelling of Darcy ruining yet another shirt, this time at the behest of Cousin Anne’s dare. “We were at the stream by Pemberley woods. The day was sunny and warm, so Anne, Fitz and I sought the shade of the trees. A long curved branch hung over the creek, and we discussed the possibility of using the branch to gain access to the other side of the creek. Anne dared Fitz to climb over first. ‘Come on Wills’ she said, ‘do not be afraid. I dare you to do better than Henry.’ Well, there was no way Master Fitzwilliam was to be outdone. So he began to crawl across the limb which unknown to him had rotted where it met the trunk of the tree. The farther he edged out, the more precarious his situation became. However, my brave cousin carri
ed on. There was a mighty crack and Fitz, and the branch were unceremoniously dumped into the water. When he emerged wet and sputtering, Anne and I saw he had torn his shirt on the limb. Young Fitz was only about eleven at the time, and he did not relish explaining another ruined garment again.” Henry adds to the story with hand gestures and mimics Darcy’s facial expressions which cause the group to chuckle politely.
“You forgot to mention Anne saw you put your weight on the crack in the branch which assisted in my descent. She went to Mother on my behalf, and you received a tongue lashing for your part in the debacle.” Darcy's eyes glow as he speaks of childhood memories. “I further recall your part in convincing poor Anne some weeks later of a lost kitten in the weeds. She went in to search for the wayward feline while becoming covered in burrs which would not remove from her lace. I owed her a favor for her intervention with Mother, and before Lady Catherine knew of the burrs, Mother and Mrs. Reynolds had Anne all presentable. You escaped any wrath that day as Lady Catherine would have had your head.”
“Indeed Fitz, you have the right of it there,” Henry states round-eyed and solemnly.
“Do not call me Fitz,” the standard reply is heard. The Matlocks and Bingley snicker. The Gardiners and Jane are smiling bemusedly, and Elizabeth cannot help but be enchanted with Darcy’s banter with Henry. The evening eventually ends. Darcy is satisfied with the introduction of Elizabeth to his family and their universal acceptance. Tomorrow he and Bingley will take the sisters around to the shops to pick up some of their finished clothing and then Elizabeth is to view Darcy House while Bingley acquaints Jane with her new London home.