Chapter 9

Elizabeth did not have the opportunity to call upon Longbourn of her own accord the next morning, due to Kitty being found upon the doorstep sobbing when Elizabeth, Mary and Diane returned from their walk.

"Kitty, why are you out here in such a state? Did you not knock upon the door?" Elizabeth cried in alarm. Without knocking, she opened the door herself, and bumped into Mr Banks as she hauled her sister up and into the house. "Send for tea and a plate of scones or muffins please, Mr Banks. Then have my carriage prepared."

Diane was returned to the nursery as Elizabeth and Mary led Kitty to the parlour. "Is everyone well at Longbourn? Has something happened to my father?" asked Mary agitatedly.

"Everyone is fine except me. I am perfectly wretched!" wailed Kitty. "I am in the depths of despair! Have you ever been in the depths of despair, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth noted that she had been in the depths of despair at least once in her life, and begged Kitty to tell them what had happened.

Kitty began sobbing anew and begged, "You will not make me marry him will you Lizzy? Please do not make me marry him, or I am sure I shall die as his wife."

Elizabeth's heart sank. "I will never force you or allow anyone else to force you to marry anyone. Indeed I would prefer you to remain unmarried entirely rather than marry without esteem and admiration. I presume this is about Mr Collins then?"

"Lizzy, it could not be!" Mary gasped. "He proposed to you only yesterday! He could not propose to your sister the next morning!"

"It seems to me that he clearly did. Well, Kitty?" Elizabeth prodded.

The girl attempted to calm herself, hiccuping and sniffling. Elizabeth gave her a clean handkerchief. "Yes, that is what happened. It was so dreadful! I was so afraid of him, and did not know what to say. I ran out of the dining room, and the house, and ran here!"

"Heavens, you received your first proposal, and you didn't even give the man an answer. We must help you work on your nerves," Elizabeth said, attempting to make light of the situation. "I understand your feelings, and why you ran away. I am going to go speak with Mr and Mrs Bennet on your behalf immediately. You should stay here for now, but I will tell you all when I return."

"Oh thank you, Lizzy!" Kitty wailed and began to get distressed again, but was interrupted by the timely Mr Banks, ushering in the maid with the tray.

When the servants left, Elizabeth inquired, "Did Mama insist that you marry him? I am surprised Lydia did not run here with you."

Kitty replied that while Mrs Bennet had not had time to throw a fit after the proposal or make any demands, that she demanded Kitty remain in the dining room to hear the proposal, even though Kitty burst into tears the moment Mr Collins asked for a private audience with her and begged her mother and her father not to leave her alone with him. "Lydia was so angry with Mama, Lizzy. When I left they were in the back of the house shouting. Lydia was giving Mama a piece of her mind."

"You refresh yourself, Kitty. Mary will assist you. I will return soon," Elizabeth promised. Mr Banks informed her the carriage was ready, then she and Miss Carmichael and two outriders went to Longbourn.

*****

It was odd at Longbourn when she arrived. Oddly silent. Elizabeth expected Mrs Bennet's shrill shrieks, Lydia's temper, and Mr Collins' endless babble. It was just quiet. As Mrs Hill admitted her, she was told her father was in his library, while Mr Collins had declared he would call upon Lucas Lodge. Mrs Bennet retired to her rooms after Lydia's tirade, and Lydia eventually ran out of the house looking for Kitty.

"I am sure Lydia cut across the fields to Lilac Cottage, and that I will find her there when I return. I will go to see my father now, and then head up to Mrs Bennet's rooms to speak with her. Please send up a tea tray," Elizabeth told Mrs Hill as she removed her outerwear. She wondered what Mrs Bennet was playing at. In any other situation, if Mr Bennet or any of the girls had challenged her Mrs Bennet would usually take to her rooms and cry and wail for days, the noise of which could be heard across the fields even with the windows closed. This situation was so oddly quiet, Elizabeth hardly knew how to approach it.

She knocked at her father's library. When he demanded the knocker go away, she opened the door and let herself in, leaving Miss Carmichael across the hall to ensure their privacy. "I might have known you would turn up," scowled Mr Bennet. "I forbid you to take all of our daughters away at once, Elizabeth. It will cause too much gossip in the neighbourhood."

"I have not asked to take anyone, of course," said Elizabeth. "Nevertheless, I will know what you plan to do about this newest drama. Kitty is beside herself with terror at being sacrificed to that dreadful man, who by the way proposed to me and was refused only yesterday. I cannot believe you allowed him to pay his addresses after your daughter begged you not to leave her alone with him. Will you allow Mrs Bennet to force the marriage or cast her out?"

"I have yet to hear anything from Mrs Bennet or even Kitty upon the matter, so I will not speculate yet on what I might or might not do. Kitty does not impress me by running away like a child," Mr Bennet said dryly.

"But she is a child, Papa," Elizabeth insisted. "Surely you can see that. Her development has been repressed by following Lydia, and by never getting the attention or education she needed. She and Lydia are little better than twelve year olds recently out of the nursery. Worse actually. Most twelve year olds have better education and manners.

"They should have had a governess. They have not a single accomplishment between them, nor any idea how to even manage servants or a household, let alone the practical experience they would need if they were to marry a parson or an officer. They are fit for absolutely nothing. They are too young to be married, and you and I know it is not necessary."

"Yes, you plan to come in and save the day, do you not?" replied Mr Bennet sardonically.

"I will admit that I would prefer if you had managed your own affairs so I would not have to. A very small amount of effort on your part to educate and manage your wife and daughters would have made all of this unnecessary. But yes, as you say, I have arrangements in place. Mrs Bennet and the girls will have the irrevocable use of a fine cottage for their lifetime. I also plan to bring each of the girls out in London, in their proper turn, of course. I will tell you now that I will not see even one of them married against her will, Papa. It is unnecessary. That sort of thing is for girls who have no family or connections ,and my sisters do not fall into that category."

Mr Bennet observed that none of it would have been necessary if Elizabeth and her mother's family had not cheated him from his due.

"I refuse to discuss what could or should have happened before I was born. I had no control over it, and I am sure you've learned to read a document from now on before signing it. I will not take the blame for your carelessness. Nothing I could have done would have induced Lord Hexham to release the funds in question to you, sir." Elizabeth said.

"Whatever. I could not care less about the situation any longer. I only wish to enjoy my book room in peace," said Mr Bennet disinterestedly.

"I will have your word that Kitty will not even be asked nicely to accept Mr Collins, and that you will, at the very least, rouse yourself to inform the man that he may not offer for any of your daughters again. With the arrangements I have made, and what I am sure Mr Bingley and Jane will contribute to Mama's care, because Jane will hate being outdone by me, there is no reason to make anyone marry such an awful man," Elizabeth demanded.

"Very well. If you are sure they need not worry for their future, then Kitty may refuse him. Why is it, do you think, that he is so determined to marry one of my daughters?" Mr Bennet mused.

"He is not well regarded in Kent. I doubt a tenant's daughter would even accept him. His patroness likely decided that he could pick a wife from among your daughters, and that you would be grateful to save them from the hedgerows. I believe he selected me first because he has heard I have an inheritance from my late husband. He likely hoped to improve his lot even more than what he already stands to receive upon your death. When that did not work, he panicked and made an attempt for Kitty, believing that Mrs Bennet would assist him in the match," surmised Elizabeth.

Mr Bennet concurred and requested solitude in his book room once more, so Elizabeth rose and headed upstairs to the mistress's suite. Mrs Hill was just entering with the requested tea tray, which was left on the table. Mrs Bennet was weeping quietly in her chair by the window,

"This is unlike you, Mama. Usually when you feel ill used everyone for miles knows of it. What is the meaning of this quiet?" Elizabeth said as she sat in the chair across from Mrs Bennet and began pouring her a cup of tea.

"What point is there in wailing, when there is no one about to even hear? You have taken them all away. You have stolen all my girls, just as I knew you would," sobbed Mrs Bennet into her handkerchief.

"I rather think you've driven them all into my arms instead of the other way round," Elizabeth observed.

Mrs Bennet stopped her sobs abruptly and looked at Elizabeth intently.

"Yes, that is correct. I have done nothing to lure your daughters away from you. I have been in my own home, minding my own business, and here you have been casting your daughters out into the night, and sailing perilously close to forcing them into very unacceptable marriages. It is no wonder they are fleeing from you in droves. What have I given to Kitty and Lydia besides a bonnet each and a few ribbons? That should not be nearly enough to lure them away from a loving mother." Elizabeth made her point.

"Now, not only is Mary living with me, but Kitty and Lydia are running about the neighbourhood seeking to be rescued from you, while your favourite daughter Jane will not even return to be married in the neighbourhood," Elizabeth dropped the revelation, and waited for Mrs Bennet to react.

"I sent her a letter, calling her home," whispered Mrs Bennet.

"I am aware of it. Aunt Gardiner has informed me that Jane and Mr Bingley will be married in London by common licence. They are giving up the lease on Netherfield, and will only return for Christmas, and stay through Twelfth Night to take their leave of the neighbourhood before returning to London," Elizabeth relayed gently.

"So they really do all hate me then…" Mrs Bennet's head bowed.

"I do not believe any of them hate you. I believe they all are very angry that they cannot count upon you to protect or prepare them. They are daughters of a gentleman, who have not been given a gentlewoman's education, being told all they need do is be pretty and lively. I must say, I am happy for you that such methods were successful in your case, but you cannot count upon it for all of your daughters. Being forbidden to learn to work in the kitchens or do anything useful, but being also prepared for nothing better than to be a poor man's wife, with no servants, when they cannot even brew tea. Only to grow up and find they are ill equipped to find husbands with no accomplishments, nor even proper manners in Kitty's and Lydia's cases. They live in fear of penury, yet are not even qualified to be governesses or companions. They have been prepared for absolutely nothing but foolishness. And in Jane's case, to be praised at the expense of her sisters her entire life, only to find herself cast out into the night the very first time in her entire life that she vexed you.

"No man will go near them while you sit in the corner, crowing in front of him for the world to hear that you expect him to marry one daughter, and throw the rest into the paths of other rich men. The girls know that no decent gentleman will offer for them under such circumstances and that you will force them into marriages with impoverished officers or shopkeepers. I am aware that there are few opportunities in the country, but your daughters have connections of their own, of which they must be allowed to take advantage," Elizabeth paused to see what Mrs Bennet had to say, but the older woman was silent, looking out of the window.

"I have no desire to take your daughters away. I have spoken to my father. He assures me he will not allow any of his daughters to marry Mr Collins, for it is quite unnecessary. The man is quite ridiculous and ghastly, madam. The possibility should not even be considered; there is no need. No one can possibly be so attached to Longbourn when your future is already secured," Elizabeth paused again, and Mrs Bennet only sniffed.

Elizabeth leaned forward and touched Mrs Bennet's hand. "It is time you and I laid aside our differences, Mama. You have never liked it when I call you that, but you are the only mother I have ever known. You may treat me however you wish, but I will never see you homeless or in need.

"You and I have more in common than you think. You are a marriage minded matchmaking mama, and I am a marriage minded matchmaking sister. I am only more patient and discreet about it than you are. I hope my sisters all make wonderful matches, and I am sure they will. There is no need for any of them to even marry at all if they do not wish it, but it is irrational for us to be at cross purposes when our goals are the same. We would do much better to be allies, do you not think?"

"Not marry at all! How can you even say such a thing!" Mrs Bennet exclaimed.

"If their futures are secured, what need do they have for husbands? I am sure you will agree that many husbands can be more trouble than they are worth. I loved mine deeply, but as far as it goes in society, most husbands are vastly overrated, do you not think? As long as they are happy, and not starving or living in poverty, that is all that is important. And what need have they to be married so young? Jane has the right idea of it. Married at twenty-one or twenty-two is about as perfect as I can imagine. You know that youthful frivolity is over once a young lady is married. Do not rush Kitty and Lydia. Let them enjoy their girlhood while I bring Mary out in town over the next year or two. After that, Kitty and later Lydia, may follow her. There is no need to rush."

"I always feel so rushed to get them settled before Mr Bennet dies," Mrs Bennet fretted.

"Well, now you know there is no need. There is quite a bit you should know about our family's future. Now you know that Jane and Mr Bingley will give up Netherfield, you should also know that I own that property," Elizabeth said.

"You own Netherfield! How can that be, the property hasn't changed hands since…"

"Since just before I met my late husband, when he visited the area, and purchased the property," Elizabeth responded with a wry smile, and proceeded to explain the circumstance where she was persuaded to let the property only to find she needed to retire to the country for her child's health. "I already arranged the lease so that Lilac Cottage would remain under the possession and direction of the owner, in case it should be needed for you and my sisters. When Jane learned that I own the house, she demanded that Mr Bingley give up the lease. I plan to have my man of business contact him, and offer him a portion of his payment returned if he gives it up by a week after Twelfth Night.

"It will remain empty for a few months while some renovations are made. I shall then move my household in, likely permanently. Lilac Cottage is very comfortable and generously appointed. It has been fully renovated, with water closets and bathing chambers with fresh water pumped in, and water boilers, so bathing is so much more easy and comfortable. Proper drains for the tubs and basins, and modern chamber pots, that empty underground. The kitchens are all modern and well appointed, and there is a goodly number of very pleasant rooms. It will be yours to live in for your lifetime, and also your daughters their lifetimes, and the arrangements are already legally arranged and irrevocable."

Mrs Bennet was quiet. "I always suspected that you would do something, but I never expected you to be so generous."

"You will also not be responsible for my sister's expenses, should my father pass away. I will provide their wardrobes and personal allowances. I am sure Jane will do something to help as well, once everyone's feelings have settled. You ought to be able to manage quite well on your income. But you will not go without anything you need. Your future is secured. There is no need to marry off a daughter at fifteen or seventeen. Keep your daughters at home, enjoy their company, and help them with their education for as long as you can, until their turns to debut arrive. Let Mr Collins and whoever he can find to marry him have Longbourn and do as they like with it. What is it to us? The Bennets are gently bred girls. They are not for the likes of that man, who was not raised to be a gentleman, and will surely botch the affair. I am sure with the right encouragement my sisters will each do well in their own way."

"I suppose I was never able to look at it that way before, I was too afraid of the hedgerows," mused Mrs Bennet.

"Well you need not be so any longer. Let this be a new beginning. No more nerves and smelling salts for we have nothing to fear! I will return to Lilac Cottage this afternoon, and send Lydia and Kitty home in my carriage. They will remain here with you, aside from an occasional visit or trip with me, until it is their turn to come out," Elizabeth said as she rose from her chair.

Mrs Bennet was quiet as Elizabeth left. Neither Mr Collins nor Lydia had returned, she observed as she descended the stairs. Mrs Hill saw her out, and she returned to the cottage in her carriage.

*****

Lydia was present when she returned to Lilac Cottage, but she was unable to have much of a private conversation with her sisters, for Elizabeth's arrival was interrupted by that of Charlotte Lucas. "Lizzy, I have come to tell you the news myself! Mr Collins and I are engaged!"

"Engaged? To be married?" cried Lydia

"Well, yes, of course, Lydia. What other sort of engaged is there?" answered Charlotte nervously.

"But just this morning–" Lydia began before Elizabeth interrupted her.

"That is interesting news, is it not girls? I believe you should take my carriage and head home, it is waiting outside for you. As you can see, Kitty, your concerns from this morning no longer matter. Why do you not head for home, and you can be the first to share the news with Mrs Bennet? I am sure she will be delighted," Elizabeth interrupted Lydia before she could say something to embarrass Charlotte before the whole room. Her friend would have to know, of course, but she didn't have to be told in front of girls nearly half her age.

Elizabeth informed the girls that she would pick them up with her carriage that evening for the card party at their Aunt Phillips'. Their mother rarely attended the card parties. Elizabeth herded them out the parlour door with Mary, who would go visit Diane in the nursery.

"Kitty's concerns from this morning?" inquired Charlotte.

"I suppose you will have to know that he proposed to Kitty just this morning, and myself only yesterday," Elizabeth sighed. "What would possess you to accept him? I thought you would come with us to London this winter."

"Eliza, declining a proposal on the hopes of a visit to London is a foolish gamble, and you know it. I am just as likely to be happy with him as with any other," said Charlotte.

"But he is ignorant and ridiculous!" Elizabeth protested.

"Oh Eliza, do hush!" Charlotte turned away.

"Charlotte please, my marriage was very happy, but I was lucky. Young women do not understand until after they are married how it can all go terribly wrong. Your life tied to that man will be a misery. Charlotte, God forgive me for being so direct and unseemly but you will have to allow him to touch you intimately. You have no idea what a torture that could be if you choose someone unpleasant. Your life will be agony," Elizabeth begged.

"Eliza, do not say any more that might make matters between us awkward in the future. I am not romantic, you know. I never was. People marry for many reasons. I only ask for a comfortable home and protection. I am twenty-seven years old, and I am weary of being a burden to my parents. I will be very happy to have my own establishment," replied Charlotte firmly. "Do you think your stepmother will be very angry?"

"I believe Mrs Bennet will be the first to wish you joy. She and I have agreed just this morning that my sisters are not for him. Charlotte, I do hope you are certain," said Elizabeth, concerned.

"I am quite certain; The invitations will go out soon. We will call the banns next week, and be married near Christmas. Mr Collins will return to his duties in Kent, and return here for the wedding. I am not happy to take your family's home someday, but I am happy that when we do eventually settle here, that I will be near my family, and on an estate I've known all my life."

"Of course you are, and I hope you will be very happy. It is natural to hope to settle near your family eventually. Your mother must be very pleased. You must not feel guilt about Longbourn. My family's future is secured. They will want for nothing after my father's passing," Elizabeth said. She did not think Charlotte would be very happy as Mr Collins' wife, but she would not hurt her friend's feelings for the world.

*****

Once Charlotte went home, Elizabeth and Mary were able to sit down for luncheon with Diane. Elizabeth filled Mary in on her conversations with Charlotte, and with Mr and Mrs Bennet. Mary was grateful to hear Mr Bennet would not expect any of the girls to marry Mr Collins, and that Mrs Bennet agreed to stop pushing the younger girls onto the officers. Of course, Mrs Bennet had not had time to think about any of it yet, get angry, or change her mind. It was all possible. But now that Charlotte was to marry Mr Collins, Elizabeth expected Mrs Bennet would accept her plan.

After luncheon, Elizabeth sat down to deal with some correspondence. She wrote a letter to her aunt and another to her uncle, asking them to please speak with Jane and Bingley regarding the dowry. If Jane preferred not to accept the settlement, Elizabeth would not argue, but she would insist that they both agree to keep the existence of the dowries, and their amounts, a secret. Jane could turn it down if she liked, but it would not be fair of her to make that decision for her sisters or to bring fortune hunters down on their heads. She made sure her uncle would make Bingley understand he would be expected to enforce this. She did not write a letter to Jane. She was tired of beating that dead horse.

She also wrote to Mr Montague, and asked him to contact Mr Bingley and offer to return to him a quarter of his payment if he would agree to give up the lease by one week after Twelfth Night. She then wrote to the work crew that did her plumbing renovations, and asked them to be available to add a number of bathing and refreshing chambers, boilers, and proper drains immediately after the Bingleys vacated the property.

She then asked Mr Banks to write to the post office in Hunsford to obtain recent copies of their local papers and advertisement columns, and to look for a small pianoforte for sale in the local area. From Mr Collins' mindless chatter, she had learned the only thing that the parsonage at Hunsford was lacking was an instrument. Elizabeth knew that Charlotte dearly enjoyed playing. She would make them a gift of a small used one as a wedding present, if one could be found in their area. Not being new, it would not be an overly extravagant gift, and would hopefully not draw too much curiosity from Mr Collins' patroness, who might cause trouble if she knew whom the gift was from, but it would mean the world to Charlotte.

After dinner, Elizabeth and Mary stepped into the carriage and stopped at Longbourn for Kitty and Lydia on their way to Aunt Phillips. The girls indicated that their parents had been quiet the rest of the day, their mother having dinner in her rooms, and their father in his library. Kitty's relief at not being expected to marry Mr Collins was so great that she vowed to spend all her pin money to buy Charlotte a charming wedding gift. Mary recommended a lovely monogrammed set of stationary and a seal like the set she had just purchased for Jane.

There were, of course, a number of officers at the party, but Elizabeth was relieved to see that her youngest sisters did not give them as much notice as before. Lydia could not help throwing herself at Lieutenant Wickham, of course, but this was not surprising, given his charm and good looks. Elizabeth knew Rome had not been built in a day. She would have to find the right scenario to help her sisters learn how to behave in society.

She found it almost immediately. The eldest Miss Long related to her privately after hearing about Charlotte and Mr Collins that she was close to giving up on finding a husband, and was considering looking for a position as a governess. She seemed to be hinting that she would welcome a position as Miss Astley's governess, but Elizabeth offered her a better alternative. Lydia and Kitty would visit Miss Long at her home three days a week, where they would begin to learn how to conduct themselves, as well as introductory lessons in French, pianoforte, and drawing, to get an idea of what the girls had aptitudes for. Miss Long would receive a generous but discreet payment, the ability to remain in her family's home, and retain her station and place in society. If she were reduced to taking an official position later, Elizabeth would be able to give her a reference.

As she and Miss Long spoke quietly in their corner, Elizabeth watched Mr Wickham watching her as he made his way around the room. Mr Collins made his way over to her and received her felicitations on the occasion of his engagement, which he accepted with alacrity, pretending that he had not only the day before imposed an unsolicited proposal upon her. As he praised his dear Charlotte, their hostess Mrs Phillips, her parlour, Lady Catherine's breakfast room, and the town of Meryton at large, Mr Collins turned the discussion to the regiment's newest member, who he praised as a gentlemanly man, and then unwittingly made Elizabeth aware that Lieutenant Wickham was asking a number of questions about her and her fortune from her neighbours as he made his way across the room.

Armed with this information, Elizabeth was prepared as Mr Collins and Miss Long moved on to speak with other guests, and Lieutenant Wickham approached her. He made conversation with her about his great liking for the village and its residents, and like Mr Collins, began praising everything at large.

He was far smoother than Mr Collins, Elizabeth observed. He had the ability to make himself agreeable in company, and she was sure he was highly successful with the other ladies. After he spoke for a few moments he ventured, "I heard that an old acquaintance of mine recently stayed in the area, and it grieves me that he did not endear himself to the neighbourhood and was not well received."

"Oh? What acquaintance is this, sir?" Elizabeth asked disinterestedly. She knew well of adventurers like this one, with their smooth, oily manners, moving from one widow or well-dowered girl to the next. London was full of such as him.

"Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy, of course. Indeed I have been acquainted with his family since infancy. In fact you could say that I have Mr Darcy to thank for my present circumstances," Mr Wickham answered.

"Indeed, sir? In what manner, may I ask?" Elizabeth had a feeling she was about to hear a sob story, as she called them, and she was not disappointed.

He leaned closer to her, his voice lowered. "I was brought up for the church. The church ought to have been my profession, and would have been, if Mr Darcy had not defied his father's last wishes, and given the living that was intended for me to another man."

"How terrible! What could induce him to behave in such a way?" Elizabeth exclaimed.

"Jealousy, of course. The late Mr Darcy was my godfather and he was excessively attached to me. Hoping to be of assistance to me, he sponsored my education and made an effort to provide for me by bequeathing the best living in his gift. But his son could have borne me better had his father loved me less, and when the living fell available, it was given elsewhere."

"Why did you not seek redress through the court, sir?" Elizabeth led him along the merry path of what she was sure was a kernel of truth wrapped in a web of well rehearsed lies.

"There was an informality in the terms that was enough to throw doubt and give me no hope of assistance from the law." He shrugged his shoulders. "A man of honour could not have doubted the intent, but Darcy chose to ignore it. I am sure if the matter became known he would be publicly disgraced. Still, until I can forget my love for the father, I can never expose the son." Wickham answered sadly.

It did not escape Elizabeth's notice that while he claimed he would not expose Mr Darcy, he was in fact doing so, and to a total stranger, no less. "I will admit I never imagined Mr Darcy could be so cruel. He was regarded as a proud man among the village. I am surprised that his pride did not prevent such dishonesty, as dishonesty it must be called."

"Ah he is a proud man," agreed Wickham, "but his filial pride would not allow him to admit his father had such a regard for the son of his steward. He has a great fraternal pride as well, which makes him a very careful guardian of his sister, and you will hear him generally cried up as the most attentive and best of brothers, but I fear he has ruined the poor girl."

"What sort of girl is young Miss Darcy?" Elizabeth inquired.

I wish I could call her amiable. It gives me pain to speak ill of my godfather's children," answered Wickham, affecting great sadness. "But she is too much like her brother—very, very proud. As a child, she was affectionate and pleasing, and extremely fond of me; I devoted hours and hours to her amusement. But she is nothing to me now. She is a handsome girl, about fifteen or sixteen, and I understand, highly accomplished. I made her acquaintance again last summer at Ramsgate, and I was saddened at her arrogance. Her father would have been so disappointed."

"There was a situation earlier this year where a previous and untrustworthy family friend imposed their friendship upon Georgiana in a dishonest way, while she was residing in Ramsgate for the summer."

Elizabeth heard Mr Darcy's words echo about the family friend and the governess in her head, and she hoped that what she suspected had not actually occurred. She would need to watch Lieutenant Wickham carefully.

"Lizzy! You will never guess what has happened!" cried Lydia, interrupting Wickham's litany of ill use.

"Tell me quickly and quietly, my dear." Elizabeth modulated her tone, with an expressive look at Lydia, who understood and assumed a more moderate volume and ladylike posture.

"My best friend Harriet Prentiss is to marry Colonel Forster!" Lydia announced.

Elizabeth was slightly stunned. Colonel Forster was nearly forty, possibly older, and Harriet Prentiss was turning seventeen next week. "We must go and congratulate her, my dear," she said as she used the excuse to leave Wickham's company to follow her sister.

*****

Jane Bennet's marriage to Mr Bingley was announced in the London and Meryton papers the following Monday. The town was shocked that Mrs Bennet did not make a fuss about the matter. Two days later, invitations to a Twelfth Night Ball at Netherfield to celebrate the marriage with the neighbourhood were received in all the homes of Meryton.

It was a good move on Jane's part, mused Elizabeth. It was a good way to put to rest any whispers about the rushed and hushed wedding, while taking leave of the neighbourhood all at once. Elizabeth did not envy Jane her efforts at preparing for the ball all by correspondence, most likely all by express, given the late date.

Kitty and Lydia visited Lilac Cottage for the day on Thursday, and spent the entire day. Elizabeth gave each of them a lesson on the harp, which she herself only had a rudimentary knowledge of, and a chess lesson. They also spent an hour with Miss Carmichael, learning basic self defence beginning with the sort appropriate to young ladies.

Kitty and Lydia were full of chatter about their visits with Miss Long. Lydia was enjoying French and Kitty was enjoying drawing. Elizabeth promised that once they pursued basic instruction in each subject to determine where their true aptitudes were, she would engage proper masters for them, which they would meet at Miss Long's house. Before they left, Elizabeth allowed them to peek at the promised dress hoard. Both Kitty and Lydia were of a size to wear Elizabeth's gowns with a little alteration. Both girls were taller, and Lydia more buxom, but Elizabeth had warned Madame Clarisse that she would eventually gift her used gowns to her younger sisters, so the hems and seams had quite a bit of extra fabric to be let out, and each garment was accompanied by the fabric remnants. Elizabeth had saved all of her gowns from before her mourning, and although they were completely out of fashion in town, could be altered in style enough to be very au courant in the country. Also, since her mourning ended, Aunt Madeleine and Madame Clarisse insisted that she order a number of lighter coloured gowns each season, in case Elizabeth decided to unexpectedly throw off her dark colours, so there were newer dresses that had never been worn as well, and many of them could be altered enough to wear in London If necessary.

Elizabeth felt the girls had thrown themselves into their new goals with enough willingness and good nature to have earned a reward, and both girls went home with a morning dress, an afternoon dress, and an evening gown to work on with their mother's help. If they worked quickly, they might have the evening gowns done in time to wear for Jane's Twelfth Night Ball. She assigned the girls a book to read together at home, which they would discuss when they visited again, and sent them home in her carriage in time to dress for dinner.

Mary enjoyed being involved in their lessons, and had learned a great deal from Miss Carmichael as well. She used this opportunity to learn as much as she could from her sister, and was rapidly becoming well read. Elizabeth had a local master come from St Albans to help Mary on the pianoforte, and once he eradicated her pounding manner on the instrument, she improved her technique very quickly. Elizabeth thought that if Mary improved much more, the girl would eventually pose a challenge even to some of the more accomplished ladies of London.

Chapter 10

As Charlotte indicated, Mr Collins returned to Hunsford immediately after the first banns were read, and returned a few days before Christmas, full of tales about the delivery of a small pianoforte as a gift for his wedding from his fair cousin two days before his journey to Meryton and acquainting the neighbourhood of his good fortune at her condescension and generosity .

Charlotte related to Elizabeth that she persuaded Mr Collins that he could only benefit from a positive acquaintance with his fair cousin . She would be the mistress of the greatest house in his vicinity once he inherited, (Elizabeth had received Mr Bingley's response regarding Netherfield and made the neighbourhood aware of her intention to properly open the house), she was titled and wealthy, and was his own cousin. Charlotte helped her betrothed see that Elizabeth's rank was so similar to Lady Catherine, that the elderly woman's objections were ridiculous in the extreme. Lady Catherine's husband had been a knight, just like Elizabeth's, and Elizabeth was descended from an earl, much like Lady Catherine's own nephew. Mr Collins only need tell Lady Catherine the pianoforte was a gift from his cousin, not the cousin's actual identity. Lady Catherine was an elderly woman who did not stick her nose beyond her own county. She would not likely hear of anything that would make their lives uncomfortable.

Elizabeth would have preferred he kept the gift a secret to surprise Charlotte on her homecoming, but she would not complain. Charlotte was glowing with anticipation of taking up her own establishment, and Elizabeth prayed it would make her friend happy.

Mr and Mrs Bingley returned four days before Christmas and by all accounts, Netherfield was a hive of activity. Jane had dozens of servants decorating the house with mistletoe and greenery, and the neighbourhood looked forward to the upcoming ball. Jane and Mr Bingley went about visiting as much as they were able, attempting to visit as many of the local families as possible before they left the neighbourhood again.

One house Jane did not call upon was Lilac Cottage, which did not surprise Elizabeth, who was only surprised to have been invited to the ball. She supposed that Jane did not want the neighbourhood to notice her exclusion, should she not be invited. Elizabeth did not particularly want to attend Jane's ball after the way she acted after leaving Longbourn, but like her sister, she would not give the neighbourhood an excuse to talk.

Mary was particularly against attending the ball, and begged Elizabeth to allow her to stay home to watch Diane. However, Elizabeth persuaded her that she needed Mary's moral support in the face of Jane's incivility, and Mary finally relented.

Charlotte was married three days after Christmas, and Elizabeth was happy for her friend. The new couple were unable to stay in Meryton for the ball, although they wished Mr and Mrs Bingley much luck in their endeavour before the wedding breakfast ended.

Elizabeth had the opportunity to corner Mr Collins briefly when Charlotte was accepting the congratulations of some friends from the village. "Mr Collins, now is a good time for us to have a chat."

"My dearest cousin , you must allow me to thank you for your generous condescension -" Collins began before Elizabeth cut him off.

"Cousin Collins, I do not condescend to my own relations. Please leave such flatterings to the side when we converse, and speak plainly and sensibly. I have a question for you, sir. Do you have any idea how fortunate you are in your wife?" Elizabeth demanded.

"I-i- ummm," Mr Collins stuttered.

"Mr Collins, Charlotte is a worthy woman, entitled to the greatest esteem. She deserved to be your first choice , and your business henceforth is to spend the rest of your days respecting and cherishing her as she deserves," Elizabeth instructed. "If you ever experience any cordiality or notice from me of any kind, it is because your wife is as dear to me as any sister, and my most trusted friend. I do not know what sort of husband you were raised to be, but if I ever learn of your harming, disciplining, or causing the smallest shred of unhappiness to my friend, I shall make you exceedingly sorry, and no one, not even Lady Catherine will be able to save you."

"I suppose you are right to say such things, considering the reports you must have heard of my father. Mine and yours fought on many matters, and my father's cruelty was among them. I assure you, cousin. I would not see my wife cringe from my hand as my mother did from my father. I believe you are right to believe the worst of me. I do not know how to behave among the nobility, or even the gentry, and admit that after spending my life trying to please my sire, I crave the approbation of those above me."

"Henceforth, you will crave the approbation, respect, and above all the affection and happiness of your wife . You have been most fortunate in your choice. Charlotte is among the most respected young women in the county. Esteemed for her good sense, economy, understanding in estate matters, and christian goodness. She was fourteen when her father was elevated. She helped him greatly as he found his place among the gentry, as she will help you find yours. She knows this area and its people; she has lived here all her life, and she knows enough about the agriculture and estate matters hereabouts. Your wife is the one you must henceforth follow in all things. I happen to know that your patroness is a poor estate manager, and Rosings Park is only kept solvent by the efforts of her nephews. If you take the wrong advice when you take possession of Longbourn, you will fail. Make sure that you take the right advice in all things , Cousin. Allow your wife to help you become the gentleman you are meant to be someday. You will not regret it." She left him then, and returned to congratulate her friend yet again.

The couple left the wedding breakfast, and travelled straight to Hunsford in Lady Catherine's third best carriage, the generosity of which was spoken of by Mr Collins for much of the day.

Once the wedding day passed the neighbourhood was quiet, waiting for the day of the ball. Since Mrs Phillips' card party, Mr Wickham, along with several other officers, called almost daily, though he was refused each time, along with several other officers, until finally, Elizabeth wrote a note to Colonel Forster, informing him that she was a respectable widow living alone with a small child and an underage sister, and that she did not entertain officers, and would appreciate him informing his men not to call.

After that, the calls from the other officers ceased, though Mr Wickham continued to call two to three times a sennight. Elizabeth sent another note to the colonel, this time delivered by the local magistrate, Sir William Lucas. This note informed the colonel that he and his officer were duly warned that the officer's presence was not welcome at Lilac Cottage. Any further attempts to visit would be viewed as a threat, and would be dealt with accordingly if Colonel Forster could not control his men.

Colonel Forster took offence at this suggestion that he could not control his men. He decided he would make no effort to control Lieutenant Wickham's actions and that Lady Astley could fend for herself.

Lady Astley had no need of the Colonel's protection, nor that of the magistrate. The only reason she bothered with those avenues was so that if she or one of her servants were obliged to kill or injure Mr Wickham in defence, there would be proof that she requested assistance properly before taking whatever steps were necessary to protect her household. Less than a week after her aunt's card party, Elizabeth received a file on Mr Wickham from Mr Montague that was two inches thick, and full of the most ghastly information imaginable. Elizabeth instructed Mr Banks to warn the shopkeepers not to extend very much, if any credit to the man, or indeed any of the officers. And to watch their daughters.

The week before the ball, Lieutenant Wickham was assigned to training drills all week, and had no time to pay calls to Lilac Cottage. But he had a plan to compromise the wealthy widow at the Netherfield Ball. He would give her a week to grow comfortable and then strike. He had listened closely to the talk about the village regarding the widow. A house in town, two estates in the country, and a fortune from her late husband sounded like just what he needed. The lady thought she could ban him from her presence by crying to his colonel, but she would soon find the situation not to her favour.

Mrs Bennet worked miracles and kept Kitty and Lydia hard at work night and day finishing the alterations to their ball gowns. The girls' reading suffered, but Elizabeth did not fuss, knowing the ball to be the reason for their neglect of their books. Soon enough the neighbourhood would return to normal and they would have time enough for their studies. Lydia even discovered that she was very good at embroidery. Everyone knew that Lydia had a deft hand with a needle, but it was not remarked upon because the girl rarely applied herself to the accomplishment, deeming it boring. When Lydia claimed that she was bored with lace trimming, Mrs Bennet told her how when she was young, the ladies would embroider their gowns. Lydia could not rest until most of the lace was removed from her gown, and she embroidered a handsome primrose pattern around the hem. She did a lovely job, even creating the pattern herself.

"These are the sorts of interests and aptitudes I mean when I speak of encouraging your education, girls. Although we would not likely engage masters for embroidery, it is always good to recognize when you have a talent for something, and then to develop that accomplishment. Embroidery skill such as this would be very highly regarded in the most accomplished circles of ladies in society, Lydia. You should be proud of yourself," Elizabeth said as the ladies sat down to lunch with Diane.

Lydia was pink cheeked as she attempted to turn the subject to Kitty's drawing. Kitty had quickly surpassed the skill of everyone around her, and Elizabeth engaged a master who came from St Albans once a week and met her at Elizabeth's home to teach her. Lydia was still considering what sort of master she would like. Elizabeth planned to engage an elocution master as well, for the girls both needed to learn to moderate their tones and speak elegantly, although they were trying very hard.

Elizabeth's own feminine accomplishments were lacking. Her drawing was indecipherable, her skill on the harp only very basic, and her embroidery was nearly obscene, it was so terrible. She could plod along on several tunes on the pianoforte well enough to get by without embarrassment, but there was little true skill, due to her disinclination to practise. Still, her playing had a light, cheerful tone to it that was pleasing to hear, even if it was not perfect. Aunt Madeleine had quite despaired of her ever being accomplished enough to suit society, but Elizabeth always preferred to play chess or read about industry or agriculture than sew or draw.

When he heard her lovely singing voice once on a visit, Uncle Hexham bade Aunt Madeleine to engage a singing master and otherwise allow Elizabeth to pursue her own interests. Her singing voice was angelic, and expressive enough to distinguish her as accomplished in society, and her time was better spent in studying subjects that she enjoyed, even if she was regarded as slightly eccentric. He taught her to ride himself, after learning she was too afraid to mount a horse after being thrown when she was eight and was learning to ride. With his careful encouragement, Elizabeth overcame her fear, and became a very accomplished rider indeed.

Eventually the day of the ball arrived, and everyone made their way to Netherfield in their best finery. Jane greeted them serenely as they passed through the receiving line. Mr Bingley was his usual ebullient self. "Cannot say how I appreciate your suggestion regarding the lease, Lady Astley. I hear you have great renovations planned for the place."

"Indeed, Mr Bingley, I am all anticipation to begin the project. May I inquire as to the well being of your friend, Mr Darcy, and his family? I hope his sister's health has improved since we met in London," Elizabeth said pleasantly.

"Sadly, poor Miss Darcy's health has not improved," answered Mr Bingley sadly. "I heard from Darcy last week, and he is very worried for her recovery."

"Please inform Mr Darcy that I am grieved to hear of his sister's illness. I am acquainted with some of London's finest physicians, so if he would like another medical opinion, I would be very happy to recommend someone. All he need do is send me a note, and I will see to it,"

"Yes, Lizzy, I am sure Mr Darcy will be very grateful," Jane interrupted sarcastically. "Charles, you are holding up the line." Elizabeth shook her head at Jane's incivility and moved into the ballroom.

The renovations for the bathing and refreshing chambers would begin the following week, and would take about a month to complete. Elizabeth greatly looked forward to moving in and redecorating a room or two at a time. The great house was everything elegant and timeless in design, but had not been updated in a number of years, and the wallpaper and upholstery were beginning to show their age.

Kitty and Lydia told Elizabeth that Jane had more or less forgiven their mother, which Elizabeth found difficult to believe after the scene at Longbourn. But as long as Jane did not need to live at Longbourn, and since she was married, and therefore no longer reliant on the Bennets, she could apparently stand to be friendly. They also told her that Jane was very touchy about any suggestion that Elizabeth was doing anything for their family, so the girls did not mention their lessons or their visits, or their dresses or bonnets, and Jane was so self absorbed that she did not even seem to notice that her mother and sisters' demeanours had changed overnight.

"Perhaps she is self-absorbed enough to believe that her leaving was the reason for the change, so she does not mention it," Mary had observed spitefully a few days before at lunch.

Elizabeth did not know what Jane thought of the change in her mother's and sister's personalities, but since she was already seeing Jane begin to behave possessively over her mother and youngest sisters, Elizabeth made a point to be unobtrusive until Jane left the neighbourhood. There was no point in playing tug of war with Jane over giving the girls a couple of bonnets and recommending something for them to read.

Mary was quickly claimed by young Mr Lucas for the first dance, and Elizabeth heard a voice behind her. "May I have the first set, my dear?" asked Mr Wickham in an oddly proprietary manner.

"It is Lady Astley to you, and I do not dance the first, Mr Wickham," Elizabeth said coolly.

"The second then," Mr Wickham said with a wicked leer down her decolletage. He looked and smelled as if he were already drunk.

"No thank you, Mr Wickham. I bid you good evening," Elizabeth wrenched away from the gentleman and made her way to sit at the side of the room near her stepmother and Lady Lucas. William Goulding came and asked for her second set, which she gave. Within a few moments all of the sets she was to dance were taken. She even gave a set to Mr Percival Godwin, which was quite the testament to how much she would rather not dance with Mr Wickham.

Elizabeth should have expected there to be trouble when she gave the set Wickham had asked for to Mr Goulding. The man in question pulled at her elbow as she returned to the side of the room. "And here I thought you a lady. I am not even certain how to address you now, madam."

"I beg your pardon, sir," Elizabeth moved to turn away, not even remotely offended by Wickham's pique.

"You denied me the second when I asked for it, and then gave it to Mr Goulding. What lady does such a thing? Didn't your fishwife of a mother teach you that you may not deny a gentleman?"

"See here now, unhand the lady!" exclaimed young William Goulding, getting very angry at this encounter.

"I see no lady here," challenged Wickham. "Come now, you've had your fun with her, now let the other lads have a go."

Elizabeth held up a hand before William Goulding could get outraged enough to challenge the man. "Lieutenant Wickham, young unmarried ladies may not deny a gentleman who asks for their hand unless they sit out the night. However, your family does not own any land that I know of, and you told me from your own mouth that you are the son of a land steward. You are not a gentleman, and I am not an unmarried lady. I am a widow who is not looking for a husband, sir. I will not dance with any man I do not wish to. Even if society cares, they can go hang! Did you think that you could force me to dance with you? You and your colonel have been told multiple times, including by the magistrate, that you are unwelcome at Lilac Cottage, yet you have continued to call there and be denied, sir. You have now been warned before the entire neighbourhood. If you intrude upon my person or my property again I will perceive it as a threat, and react accordingly. Please take yourself from my company!"

"See here, Forster, we discussed this!" cried Sir William, calling Colonel Forster from a group nearby. "I served you notice myself to keep your officers away from Lilac Cottage, and from my own home, as my remaining daughter is not of an age to marry yet. If you cannot keep your men in line, I shall write to the war office!"

Many of the local matrons took up the charge, berating the Colonel, and warning Wickham to stay off their lands and away from their girls. Elizabeth was well liked and respected in Hertfordshire. Now that she was moving permanently into Netherfield they liked and respected her even more because having a titled lady in the big house would raise the tone of the neighbourhood, and being counted among her intimate acquaintance gave them all distinction. The town would not put up with a respectable widow of any rank being harassed by the militia.

Mr Bingley left his place with his wife to assess the situation, and asked Colonel Forster to have the man removed. "I know that man from university, sir, and I wouldn't trust him with the safety of a dead cat. He has caused one family of my acquaintance significant unhappiness. I will not have him on Netherfield lands while I am still here, and if he trespasses, I will hold him and the regiment accountable. I did not recognise him when he arrived with the other officers, but I must insist that he leave now."

Wickham was escorted back to the camp and put under guard until the colonel could deal with him. Seething at the indignity but seeing it was necessary, Forster rendered an apology to Lady Astley, promising to put an end to the trouble.

Elizabeth sat out the next dance as everyone around her settled down, and her father took the chair next to her. "Well, Lizzy, would you like to tell me how you stole all of the silliness from my house?"

"I am sure I do not know what you mean, Papa," replied Elizabeth innocently.

"Nonsense. You spend half an hour with Mrs Bennet, and suddenly a few weeks later, Lydia is not only starting to speak French, but also waltzed into my library this week and took a reference book without batting an eyelash. Last night they were playing chess, and not only did Kitty win, I am tempted to think she did so on purpose," said Mr Bennet. "And I keep finding Mrs Bennet or Hill teaching them about menus or the budget. What are these visits to Miss Long all about?"

"Yes, Kitty might be formidable if she gains some more varied experience with the chessboard," Elizabeth observed. She relayed to him Miss Long's predicament, and how she saw it as a way for her sisters to gain some discreet instruction. "They play chess with me on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I believe I have even seen a few of the matrons smiling at them tonight. I never imagined what an immediate effect a little attention might make."

"What did you do to gain their acceptance? If I suggested Lydia learn to manage the budget, she would have screamed the house down," said Mr Bennet, shocked.

"I bought them each an expensive bonnet and gave them some ribbons," smiled Elizabeth sarcastically.

"You cannot be in earnest. Two hats and some ribbons."

"I've helped the matter along with a few of my discarded gowns, which they are wearing tonight," Elizabeth said, making the point home that the issue of the younger girls could be managed very easily. "It will help that Miss Long is properly educated. So far they are mostly learning manners and comportment, since that was the most glaring concern. But they are also dabbling in basic accomplishments. They play chess with me, and I assign them books to read. Once their comportment is acceptable, we can encourage more academics. Both of the girls have shown an inclination since they started reading more than gothic novels."

"Elizabeth, I cannot believe it was that easy. And your stepmother seems to be watching and imitating them. Now who shall I make fun of?" Mr Bennet snarled irritably. He did not enjoy being shown up.

"I expect now all you'll be left with is inviting Kitty to play a round of chess, or asking Lydia about what she's reading. They're worth speaking to," mocked Elizabeth.

"Next you'll suggest I should begin talking to Mrs Bennet." Mr Bennet hauled himself out of the chair, and headed to the card room.

Elizabeth endured the dreaded dance with Mr Godwin, who took the honour to mean he should resume his suit. By the time the set was over Elizabeth was weary of the ball, and wishing to go home. She chatted with Mr and Mrs Hurst, as well as several of the matrons from the neighbourhood, and danced the remaining sets she was engaged for. She kept an eye on Mary, who she was amused to see was overwhelmed with attention, and danced every set. She accepted Sir William's escort in to supper, and listened attentively through the meal as the kindly man spoke animatedly of his happiness at his eldest daughter's marriage.

Elizabeth collected Mary, and the two left the ball after supper, as she always did. She teased Mary on the way home about being the Belle of the Ball.

"It was nice to be a part of the fun rather than watching from the side of the room. But I decided tonight that I wouldn't like to marry any of these local gentlemen. I would prefer to meet someone new," said Mary seriously.

"Why is that, Mary?" inquired Elizabeth.

"I think it is because none of these gentlemen saw me when I was invisible, but they pay court to me now. I have been sitting under their noses my entire life! I do not like the feeling that it took a pink gown and some ribbons for them to notice me. I think I would like to experience meeting someone new, someone interesting, who might think me worth sweeping off my feet," answered Mary.

"You are right that none of these gentlemen deserve you now. They should have noticed you before, and it does not show them to advantage now," agreed Elizabeth. "You will meet many new people, Mary. I have no doubt that you will meet the gentleman you describe. Do not feel that you must find a husband too quickly. I would prefer that you did not marry before your majority anyway. I suspect Papa would create mischief."

As the carriage returned to Lilac Cottage, the ladies spoke of the ball and their impressions of the evening. Mary and Elizabeth were both shocked by Mr Wickham's behaviour, although Elizabeth was certain they had not heard the last of him.

*****

The next day it was heard about Meryton that Lieutenant Wickham would spend a month in lock up for his behaviour at the ball, and that Colonel Forster issued a stern warning to all of his soldiers that ungentlemanly conduct would not be tolerated in his regiment.

Mr and Mrs Bingley returned to London three days after their ball, and renovations began on Netherfield Park. Elizabeth planned several bathing and refreshing chambers, including downstairs in the servants' hall, and upstairs in the servants wing. There would be a pump and basin installed outside the servants' water closets, and it was made known that anytime a servant was seen exiting the water closet, they must also be seen washing their hands immediately after, or face dismissal. Elizabeth was extremely particular about cleanliness.

When the work was completed on Netherfield, the move was made to open the larger house. Elizabeth and Mary spent the next month choosing fabrics and redecorating their own rooms, the nursery, and a few of the principal rooms, starting with the large dining room and formal drawing rooms. Elizabeth planned to host a large dinner party when the work on those rooms was complete, and possibly a ball the following year. She had no need or desire for a ball herself, but it was good to celebrate the house being officially reopened, and it was also polite to do something social for the neighbourhood gentry, and to give support to the local tradesmen.

Kitty and Lydia returned to their usual routines after the ball, visiting Miss Long on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, and Elizabeth and Mary on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Elizabeth sent her carriage to convey them when the weather was inclement. Their accomplishments continued to grow apace, and their comportment was already much improved. They were beginning to learn more academic subjects. Lydia continued to excel in French, while Kitty was abominable at the subject. Elizabeth endeavoured to begin teaching Kitty Italian, which she took to much better. Elizabeth had taught Diane Italian from a young age, as soon as she began speaking, and the child was perfectly fluent, though she would need to be taught to read and write in both languages. Lydia was chagrined that the child had not begun to learn French, and she and Kitty began visiting on Saturdays as well, Lydia to instruct the child in French, and Kitty began painting murals of nursery rhymes in the nursery.