7. Chapter Seven

Chapter Seven

February 1, 1811 Lucas Lodge Charlotte

S he held the letter in her hand. It was still unopened, though it had been delivered hours earlier. Charlotte recognized the handwriting as belonging to Jane Bennet— Collins . Why the new Mrs. Collins wrote to her was beyond understanding. Jane had never been close to Charlotte, not like her sister was.

Curiosity won out and she broke the seal.

My dear Charlotte,

Kent in the winter is not as cold as Hertfordshire, though the weather keeps me indoors more often than I prefer. There is much to keep me occupied, however, not the least of which is writing to those friends and family I left behind in Hertfordshire.

I write to extend an invitation to you. Elizabeth is to visit me in Hunsford for six weeks this spring. She will depart from London on March 5th in the morning, reaching Hunsford before nightfall.

I have written to my father, and he has agreed to convey you in his carriage. He is to travel hither as well; Mr. Bennet wishes to view my happy situation and assure himself of my contentment. The Bennet carriage will leave Longbourn on March 4th and depart from Gracechurch Street the next day. You are welcome to come if you so choose.

I have not forgotten your good sense and wise advice. Your pragmatism and perspective have been instrumental in my current state of matrimony, and I thank you for both.

I do hope you will accept my offer.

Sincerely,

Jane Collins

Charlotte did not know whether to laugh or cry. Of all the ridiculous things! Her words had influenced Jane Bennet to accept her cousin! It was ironic. Charlotte could not blame Jane, though. Her attempt at securing Mr. Collins was not known to any beyond herself and her mother.

The weeks leading up to Jane’s marriage had been dreadful for Charlotte. Mama did not stop lamenting the loss of a prospective suitor, acting as if it were she who suffered with disappointed hopes and not her eldest. Charlotte kept her dashed dreams to herself. It did no good to mourn that which she never had. Having done so in the past when gentlemen passed her by for younger, prettier ladies, she did not wish to waste energy on such dismal thoughts.

Jane’s invitation tempted her. To be away from Meryton for a few weeks would be a boon. Charlotte had not seen much of the world, and travel to Kent was preferable to remaining at Lucas Lodge where her mama could continue bemoaning her eldest daughter’s spinster state.

But would it not be awkward to be in the same house as Mr. Collins? The gentleman had paid Charlotte particular attention before offering for Jane, enough that his honor had been engaged. Charlotte’s presence in Kent might make things uncomfortable.

She smirked. Maybe a little discomfort would do Mr. Collins some good. He did not deserve to go unpunished for his mistreatment of her feelings. If fortune favored her, maybe the change of scenery would bring another chance at matrimony.

February 5, 1812

London

Elizabeth

Elizabeth rapped the brass knocker on the door to Darcy House. This was her second visit to Mayfair, and she felt less discomfort than she had the previous call.

Miss Darcy and her companion, a pleasant lady named Mrs. Annesley, sat in the parlor. Tea awaited, and Elizabeth greeted her hostess warmly.

“How do you do today, Miss Darcy?” she asked.

“I am well. And you, Miss Bennet?” Miss Darcy smiled warmly. She thrived at Darcy House where she was in her element. The shy, awkward creature from Gunter’s had vanished, replaced by an enthusiastic, though quiet young lady.

“I, too, am well. I have had word from my dear friend Miss Lucas that she will join me on my journey to Kent next month.”

“It is your sister who resides in Kent?” Miss Darcy asked.

“It is. Her husband is the rector at Hunsford.” She sipped her tea, grateful for the warmth of the cup in her hands.

“Hunsford? Why, that is very near my aunt’s home, Rosings Park!” Miss Darcy looked shocked.

“I had forgotten the connection,” Elizabeth admitted. "I believe my cousin introduced himself to your brother whilst he was in Hertfordshire. It slipped my mind entirely.” The chaos surrounding the days following the Netherfield Ball was certainly to blame.

“Pray, forgive my forward speech, but my aunt is officious and difficult. I hope your sister can withstand her.” Miss Darcy looked equal parts horrified and ashamed of her outburst.

“Jane is perfection personified. Her serenity is not feigned. I imagine her ability to see good in all those around her will aid her well.” Elizabeth knew Jane would tolerate her husband’s patroness far better than she ever could.

Their conversation shifted, and they discussed books and music until the call came to an end. Elizabeth departed, promising to write to Miss Darcy while in Kent. The young lady was to go to Matlock House for the rest of the month. Her uncle, Lord Matlock, and her brother had arranged for several masters, and Miss Darcy would not be available for callers.

Elizabeth boarded the carriage, relieved to have avoided Mr. Darcy’s company once again. Miss Darcy was her brother’s opposite in every way. Where he was proud and disapproving, his sister was shy, welcoming, and polite. It was peculiar.

With four weeks left until she traveled to Kent, Elizabeth fought to occupy her time. She helped her aunt with her young cousins, entertaining them and assisting with their lessons. There were household duties, too, that required her aid, and Elizabeth happily did whatever else Mrs. Gardiner required.

Still, there were too many free hours in her day, leaving Elizabeth with too much time to think. Her vexation crept into her correspondence to Jane.

Dear Jane,

The last month passed quickly; do you not think so? I imagine with so much to occupy your time that your days are filled with all manner of activities. Mine are far emptier than I prefer, and I find that I am restless for more responsibility.

Charlotte has written to tell me of her invitation to Kent. I am very happy that she has accepted. We are both eager to see you again, and we shall have a marvelous time together, I am certain.

I have not written of it yet, but I have made the acquaintance of Miss Georgiana Darcy. Aunt Gardiner and I met with them at Gunter’s a few weeks ago, and I have called upon the young lady twice now. She has not called at Gracechurch Street, but I imagine it is due to her brother’s edict that she is not seen in the home of a tradesman. He is as arrogant and haughty as I recall, and I find my distaste for his company to be as constant as ever. I will suffer it, if I must, to maintain my growing friendship with Miss Darcy.

Our cousins are as well as ever. They are progressing in their lessons, and I believe in a year or so, Uncle Gardiner will take young James with him to his warehouse so that he might begin learning the business of imports and exports. It is hard seeing them grow so quickly.

How do you do, my dear sister, in your new position? I remember your promise to explain all to me someday, and I will hold you to it. Though I have avoided mentioning what occurred prior to your marriage, I cannot keep my peace forever. Your behavior baffled me, and your departure from our long-held desires is difficult for me to understand. I do love you, Jane, and I am trying to trust your judgment.

I shall bring you some treasures from London when I come. If you have any particular requests, pray, write to me with them immediately so that things might be procured before our departure.

All my love,

Elizabeth

It was not a very long letter, but it helped relieve some of Elizabeth’s disquiet. She sanded and sealed it before putting it with the outgoing post.

Jane’s reply to Elizabeth’s letter came within a week. This surprised Elizabeth; though she wrote to her sister once a week, Jane’s replies were short in supply. She usually replied to two or three of Elizabeth’s letters at one time, somehow managing to answer all her questions and queries without using too much paper.

My Dear Lizzy,

Your letter cheered me. I do appreciate hearing about our family. Our mother and father are unfaithful correspondents at best. I have received only one letter from each since departing for Kent. Mary has written regularly. She attaches religious tracts to review with my husband. Her efforts are appreciated by Mr. Collins. Kitty and Lydia have not written at all. It is not surprising, given their predilection for other activities.

I am sorry you find yourself with more time on your hands than you know what to do with. I could offer you all manner of suggestions, but I will not abuse your intelligence. I am certain you have considered each one I might present. I will be sure to keep you occupied whilst in Kent, lest you grow bored with my company and wish to return home.

My husband is as attentive as ever. I know you found little to like in his character and manner, but Mr. Collins takes very good care of me. There is nothing that escapes his notice or concern; just yesterday I awoke feeling poorly and he delayed his meeting with Lady Catherine to ensure my comfort. You know enough of his patroness to understand just how momentous his actions were. Lady Catherine was not pleased with his tardiness, though Mr. Collins claims she accepted his reasons without delay.

I could do with a few bolts of fabric when you come. Tell my aunt to select something sturdy. I am in need of a few work gowns. Some thread, needles, and other accoutrements would not go amiss. I shall settle the bill with my uncle when it is available.

As for your requests for understanding, they will have to wait. I have had nearly three months now to think on my decisions, and with each passing day, I grow more convinced that I made the correct choice. My reasons will be explained in due course. You may ask if I still think on Mr. Bingley with fondness. There, I have written his name. You have been far too cautious in your letters, mentioning him without actually naming him! I promise, I shall satisfy your curiosity before too long.

I do love you, Lizzy.

Jane Collins.

Her reply was not satisfactory, but Elizabeth knew she would garner no more information from her sister, not until she went to Kent. Jane’s letters did not lead Elizabeth to believe her sister to be melancholy. She would have to be content with Jane’s professions of happiness.

March 4, 1812

Gracechurch Street

Elizabeth

“Charlotte!” Elizabeth hugged her friend tightly before turning to her father. She hugged him as well, and he kissed her head fondly.

“It is good to see you, dear Lizzy,” he said. “I have not had two words of sense since you left Longbourn.”

They entered the house and were met by Mrs. Gardiner. Mr. Bennet was escorted to the larger guest room upstairs and Elizabeth took Charlotte to the room they would share for the night.

“How was the journey?” she asked as Charlotte washed the road dust from her face.

“It was tolerable. Your father and the maid slept, and I watched the scenery. It has been years since I traveled from Meryton. Not all is as I remember.” Charlotte looked up into the mirror behind the washbasin and met Elizabeth’s gaze. “I have nothing of which to complain. I am grateful for Jane’s invitation.”

Elizabeth sat on the bed. “Yes, I believe we will enjoy our time in Kent. Jane speaks of the beauty of Hunsford.”

Charlotte turned to her. “And how is she adjusting to her new role?”

“I hardly know, Charlotte,” Elizabeth confessed. “Jane’s letters speak of her contentment. She does not complain of anything. I cannot see any disquiet or dissatisfaction in her words. But I do not trust that she is wholly happy with her situation. My sister has always worked to see the best in everyone, even when there is no apparent goodness to be found. Does she do the same now, or is she genuinely pleased with her life?”

Charlotte sat beside her. “You and Jane are not the same. You could not have found happiness in the same way because of this. Your sister has chosen to find peace with her decision, or so it seems from your words. Are you to deny her that? Will you dredge up the past because you do not believe her unaffected by it? What is done cannot be undone, you know.”

“Do you believe, then, that marrying for love is not necessary for Jane’s happiness?”

“I have told you before, happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance.” Charlotte sighed. “If Jane seeks joy and contentment in her situation, she will find that. One does not need love to do so.”

“Your parents love each other,” Elizabeth said. “Their relationship is harmonious, is it not? I have seen the unhappiness that comes when someone marries another who is entirely unsuited to them. I do not want that.”

“You are not your sister. Jane will find the good that is to be found and then nurture it. Perhaps Mr. Collins will blossom under her loving care.” Charlotte shrugged and stood. “Your aunt awaits. Let us go down to tea.”

Elizabeth followed without complaint.

They left Gracechurch Street early the next morning. Mr. Bennet dozed while Charlotte and Elizabeth spoke quietly. The hours passed and soon both ladies took to admiring the countryside. Signs of spring were evident everywhere, and the anticipation to witness how the changing seasons transformed the Garden of England grew.

It will not be long now, Elizabeth thought. Soon, she would see Jane and be able to determine her sister’s wellbeing.