I have little else to add for all has returned to the quiet and serenity of previous years, where little happens in our humble lives, and we thank God for it. I am truly blessed and when I look upon Charlotte in her current situation of expectancy and my two darling boys, may I wish all at Longbourn equal peace all the days of their lives.
In gratitude and appreciation, your cousin,
William Collins
Longbourn,
near Meryton,
Hertfordshire.
18th December, 1795
Dear Sir,
I have just now re-read your last correspondence of six weeks hence that I might recall what were our pressing issues and respond as appropriate, to find that its tone was one of complete harmony and gratitude. And what more can we ask for, sir, as Christmas approaches than such an attitude and a deep appreciation for one’s blessings?
We are all well here, excepting Mary whom I found quite unwell this morning, doubled over in what appeared to be agonies. She is so private in her business that I fear she often goes neglected so I was alarmed to see such a demonstration of debilitation and insisted I call for the physician but she refused and said she would be well again. Recommending the therapeutic benefits of a hot bath, I kept a distant eye and she does appear to have regained her health this evening. I believe, sir, she reads and thinks too much and should spend more time outdoors or playing music. There is a depth to Mary that few but I appreciate.
We enjoyed seeing you all of late in our native land and Master Thomas, in particular, is always welcome at the Longbourn estate for I did find in him such an accomplice in mischief that brought me back many decades. There is more Bennet than either Collins or Lucas in that boy for he helped me make a cross-bow and caught one of the hens with such skill as left me dumbfounded and reminded me of nobody more than myself. Please send him my special regards and tell him that the cat has returned but without his tail.
On other matters, we had the new school master come to dine last evening and I find him not one bit offensive, which surprised me greatly, for I generally like to fall out with educators due to their conservatism and fondness for the high moral ground. It confirms what I had come to note when observing myself of late – that I am becoming more and more mellow in my old age. Mrs Bennet tells everyone that there is no difference between how I or Shep, our sheepdog, react when she is relating a tale of great concern, for I consistently fail to panic, even slightly, when there is ample excuse for hysteria.
But back to this new school master, Mr Jenkins, a likeable chap (with a handsome face, according to Mrs B) and a great brain. I am pleased for the local families that he will take their offspring in hand for he teaches from the great Dutchman, Martinet’s, works which state that one must study nature if one is to understand God’s design. We had quite a great deal to discuss about Martinet’s Kort begrip der waereld-histoire voor de jeugd (Brief Understanding of World-History for the Young). Would that such material were in circulation back in my day!
He came in the company of a Mr Luther who, despite his promising name, declares he has not a religious bone in his body, being a man of science. I must warn you, for he will be one of your closest neighbours someday, that he is considered with great suspicion in these parts, having killed many of his own livestock by accidentally mixing up a medicinal bottle with one of his home-made potions. Only this new Mr Jenkins and I seem to find him an interesting chap; all others fear that he will pour a poison in the wells and kill us all. Mrs Bennet swore she would not let him near the sauce boat and refused to touch it herself once she saw he had use of it before her.
Mr Jenkins’ own situation, however, is to be pitied for his wife, Diane, is an invalid and remains in London (Cheapside, like the Gardiners) where her sister cares for her while he must needs take work where he can find it. I do sincerely hope that this does not mean that he will disappear again soon once a position closer to London materialises. I should not have mentioned the Gardiners, however, for I fear I may have embarrassed him somewhat (for he jumped when I mentioned Cheapside) as their circumstances must be hard-pressed and perhaps they do not socialise in the same circles or with the same frequency as the jovial, outgoing Gardiners.
Otherwise, we are readying ourselves for Christmas for, yet again, like a bad head-cold, it comes upon us suddenly when we seem to least expect it, similar to the Wickhams, who are to join us this festive season. Mrs Bennet is delighted (for she enjoys the noise), Mary is infuriated (for she hates it) and I am indifferent for my hearing loss has accelerated and I find the ailment suits me considerably.
May I wish you, Charlotte and the boys as well as all at Rosings the most wonderful of Christmases and New Year.
Sincere wishes,
Henry Bennet
1796 – The year in which a soldier becomes a sailor, a bachelor becomes a widower and we lose a loved one.
Hunsford,
near Westerham,
Kent.
12th January, 1796
Dear Sir,
Wishing all at Longbourn the happiest of New Years. May God’s mercy and blessings descend upon you all, even those who stay with you at present.
While I have absolutely no inclination to ever become acquainted with the unchristian Mr Luther, I was most interested to learn of your new teacher, Mr Jenkins, but I would like to caution you, cousin, not to be so readily impressed by this foreign writer Martinet of whom I know little. For what can he write and teach our young about morals and the many evil temptations that exist today that cannot be better learnt directly from God’s own word in the Good Book? And as a man of the outdoors myself, who appreciates nature like few others, I have to warn you that nature can oft lead man to sin and lose his soul for all eternity – a devil in angel clothing, one might say.
I tell you now, sir, of such an occurrence which I witnessed last week, in the most guarded language, that I may not sully your untainted mind. I happened to call upon a neighbouring farm to find my gardener John, who does oft work for them during the winter, to have a word regarding removing the dead ivy from the garden wall, when I was instructed I would find him in the barn. There I was met with such a sight that it were many moments before I could decipher there were two persons before me. Suffice to say the servant girl was present, as was John, neither were attired and I could not make sense of what I saw for I had never witnessed such an act, nor thought it possible, that I did that evening resort to Reverend Smellie’s book, confident that I would discover it within. I believe I have narrowed it down to be either the act found on page 772 or that found on page 858.
I will mention no more, sir, but suffice to say there was such a sermon about carnal desires that Sunday which left the sinners in no doubt that they are destined for the fires of hell. Following much shuffling and coughing, not one eye could meet mine as the congregation left the church and even my own Charlotte did not speak to me for two days. And, therefore, I warn you now that while God did create nature and has dominion over all the land, the seas and creatures of this world, He will show no mercy to those who are not pure of spirit but wanton in their nature and use of nature. Forgive me again for mentioning this unclean subject to you, who like me is of an innocent disposition and not to be tempted by base inclinations, but I feel satisfied that nothing less would suffice in warning you to be careful of what you are about, particularly when young and innocent minds are at risk.
Your mention of Cheapside in your last letter planted a most ingenious idea in my head. I believe I shall call upon the Gardiners when I am in town next month, for I recall you stated, when we were last in Hertfordshire, that they will visit you at Easter and I have many books for the library at Longbourn which I would like them to deliver to you. As we expect our next blessing before then, it may be some time before we venture into Hertfordshire ourselves so I would be most grateful and indebted if they would perform this kindness for me and will send them a note this very evening, informing them of my intention.
Finally, I wish to say that all is not as one would wish at Rosings as there seems to be a marked change of tone in young Mr Smock towards her ladyship which concerns me greatly. Charlotte tells me it has been like this for several months but I fear I had not noticed as I cannot imagine that any person would present hostility to such a generous, noble hostess. And though I had always believed the young couple were attached, Charlotte again informs me that I was in error and that Mrs Smock despised her husband for the first many months of their union. Now, however, Mr and Mrs Smock are inseparable and entirely besotted due, according to my dear wife, to the very fact that Mr Smock rebels against her ladyship. I hope that this phase will pass and he will return to a more humble and grateful disposition soon for I am all awkward and uneasiness when dining at Rosings of late.
My very best, again, to you, Mrs Bennet, Mary and your visitors for ’96.
Yours sincerely,
William Collins
Longbourn,
near Meryton,
Hertfordshire.
3rd March, 1796
Dear Sir,
Our heartiest congratulations to your good self and Charlotte on welcoming a wonderful daughter, Louisa, into the world. The very late Sir Lewis de Bourgh must be the most fortunate of departed souls to feature in all three of your progeny’s names and I dare say the former Miss Anne de Bourgh has some catching up to do (although I have heard from Sir William Lucas that she has made a start and will be welcoming a little Smocklet in due course). I am sure that the arrival of a grandchild will soften all relations at Rosings, if they are indeed still fraught, as all inhabitants unite in their doting over the next generation.
There is little news here. Mary commenced presenting piano lessons at the school last month (for she has a charitable spirit) though it took considerable encouragement on my part but I persevered and she finally acceded. Perhaps she reads too many ecumenical writings for she is a troubled soul who I hear walking about her room at night. I believe that her health will benefit greatly from the short journey to the school and back and by engaging her mind through teaching and talking with others outside of these walls. The school, through Mr Jenkins’ efforts, had recently received a donation of the old piano from Netherfield Hall when the current tenants purchased a new one. Which puts me in mind of that peculiar business of Lady Catherine making enquiries regarding its current occupants. I do so hope she is not considering taking up residence at Netherfield herself, for although she is mild-mannered and benevolent and would be a most wonderful neighbour, she had best set her sights elsewhere for we have it from the current tenants, Colonel and Mrs Lacey, that they are here to stay. Console her ladyship as best you can and advise her that the summers are much warmer in Kent so she had best stay where she is.
The Gardiners, whom you recently visited with your shipment of books, are due to arrive within the fortnight and will be taking the boy, George Wickham Junior, with them when they return to town. There he will be reunited with his parents, for they left him here last month as they returned to friends in town. I cannot tell you what a joy it has been to have him here (and without them) and he shows great promise if his environment is steady and encouraging. It pains me to think how things may turn out for him for now his father, in a peacock display of bravado, declares that he is turning to the sea and joining the war against the French. I fear his real motive is that he has burnt many bridges and made many enemies on land and has little choice but to turn to the sea. Howsoever, we will enjoy every minute with our grandson and try to console and distract ourselves by visiting the other grandchildren when he has left.
Finally, sir, I would like to discreetly mention that occurrence in your neighbour’s barn which threw you into a state of discomposure. Your caution is very much appreciated and your relating such a sensitive subject with such discretion and delicacy is an art-form in, and of, itself and one for which I must commend you. However, sir, never consider that you have to keep such happenings to yourself in future. Unburden yourself at once, cousin, and lay out the details to me in any manner you see fit for it must have weighed heavily on your mind, keeping this troublesome business secret from the very respectable company you keep. For have I not often observed to my girls, when we come across that passage in the bible regarding being as innocent as a child in order to enter the kingdom of Heaven, that such is the mind of Mr Collins – “a mind as innocent and empty now as it was on the very day that his mother brought him forth into this wicked world.” So please feel free to lay out all the details of such mischievousness before me that I may learn from the wicked and base.
My library looks forward to your books, for there are several shelves down low, behind the door, which have remained empty for generations and will appreciate being occupied at last.
Your cousin,
Henry Bennet
Hunsford,
near Westerham,
Kent.
11th April, 1796
My Dear Sir,
May I take this opportunity to thank you most heartily for your kind wishes on the safe arrival of Louisa into our happy home and confirm that all are well, praise the Lord. We expect Charlotte’s parents, as per usual, in the coming weeks. I am afraid, however, that Lady Catherine took exception to the fact that we have named our girl ‘Louisa’ for she believes it the most fitting name for her grandchild, be it born a girl, therefore, in her opinion, we have stolen it without asking prior permission. It was too late when we learned of her displeasure and, therefore, we cannot rename the child now and I wait with trepidation and pray that the Smocks welcome a boy.
I am most glad to hear you are keeping vigilant with regards Mary’s health but, pray, do not discourage her enthusiasm for ecumenical studies for one’s soul is ever more important than one’s flesh. Fortunately, I have included in the case of books which should be, even now, making their way to you, via the Gardiners, such a variety of new interpretations and sermons based on the Good Book as cannot lead her astray and will lighten her spirit with renewed vigour and praise, for I believe a lack of good reading material is all that ailed her from the start.
I am indifferent to the news that Mr Wickham is to be sent to sea, for the Lord will find him out wherever he may be, but I do pray for the young boy’s soul, that it shall be kept on the right path and not on the evil one which seemed to be preordained for him.
Our very best wishes to all at Longbourn.
Your devoted cousin,
William Collins
Longbourn,
near Meryton,
Hertfordshire.
5th May, 1796
Dear Sir,
I found your previous correspondence so full of the wrath of God that it did make me wonder whether perhaps it was the wrath of Lady Catherine that did colour the ink on your quill, however, as I have learned that she did indeed welcome a grandson into the world, Lewis Richard Edmund Smock, I imagine charity and forgiveness has returned to the world once more.
We received the Gardiners and your books into the house at Easter, only parting with them last Wednesday (the Gardiners, not your books) and, I must say, it was a jolly few weeks. Mr Jenkins, the school master, joined us many times during their stay and, I must confess, his mind is a great one. I have rarely met one as good (excepting yourself of course, cousin). He also kindly helped me rearrange all books in the library and even wrote a catalogue that I may never lose a map or pamphlet again. There appears to be a depth of soul to him, that I believe is not revealed often or to many, but I would place a wager on his writing poetry in private. I did find that he became excessively embarrassed when Mr Gardiner engaged him on his acquaintance and whereabouts in Cheapside which confirms my theory that his manner of living contrasts greatly with that of the Gardiners. I imagine whatever he feels, he feels deeply.
Of course, I miss young George Wickham very much now that he has left but a letter from Lydia telling me that she intends to join us at the Bingleys’ fine home in the coming weeks has put my mind at
ease.
Mary’s spirits appear good in the mornings and failing in the afternoons. I continue to be vigilant that she eats sufficiently, however, she refuses to see a physician, despite one calling frequently to the house to visit Mrs Bennet and her many complaints. A trip to the Bingleys and Darcys shall do her the world of good, though she cried when I told her. I thought it a good time to hint that I was aware that a beautiful soul such as she could not always be kept in big houses in England, for I do not wish guilt or anxiety for the future to add to her troubles. She kissed me on the forehead and said that I loved her well and understood her greatly and seemed comforted by my words. We leave mid-May and will be back mid-June and perhaps we should be fortunate to meet with you all if you are planning a trip to Lucas Lodge this year.
Your cousin,
Henry Bennet
Hunsford,
near Westerham,
Kent.
16th June, 1796
Dear Sir,
I write to you now that I may reach you shortly after your return into the glorious Hertfordshire countryside. I pray that your trip was safe and that you found all my dear cousins and their families in the best of health and happiness on your visit to Derbyshire.
We are now planning a trip to stay at Lucas Lodge in early August, a most spontaneous decision, and have even more exciting news to impart – we will be joined for some small share of our time by Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Netherfield Hall has become vacant during your absence and her ladyship plans to inspect it – the current tenants, according to her ladyship’s source, up and left very suddenly with little time for farewells due to the urgency of their business elsewhere. I did press her for more details, for I think it a strange business, but she frowned so disapprovingly upon me that I knew I must say no more on the subject. I flatter myself that her ladyship is perhaps looking ahead, at this juncture of her life, to settle close to where she knows will eventually be my permanent home though, may I repeat myself here, cousin, we are in no haste to acquire Longbourn just yet.
The Longbourn Letters Page 8
