A Gentleman's Mistake

by Marley Fulton

  “No early morning stroll this day, Miss Bennet?” he asked aloud, hoping that her recovery had not been disrupted or worse, that she had taken even more ill since he had returned her to her family. He pulled slightly at the reigns, knowing that the urgency of Miss Bennet’s misfortune had disrupted his travel itinerary for returning home. Despairing over his lack of luck, Darcy began to lead the animal out of the forest – his eyes casting one last yearning glance at the lake which he had fetched her from.

  Crunch. Crunch.

  Darcy’s eyes shifted as he halted the horse – glancing around, “If someone is there show yourself.” He announced.

  Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.

  Large and curious eyes peered out from behind a nearby tree and a soft voice murmured, “Mr. Darcy? I thought you would already have left Netherfield. What are you doing here?” Miss Bennet asked. Darcy’s eyes widened slightly – his thoughts shifting to the situation and, once again, noting that Elizabeth was unchaperoned.

  “Have you recovered from your fall, Miss Bennet? Is it wise for you to be out as you were before with such a chill in the air?” Darcy asked.

  “Mr. Darcy, I am quite capable of walking through the woods without having the same misfortune befall me twice in such short time,” she answered.

  “Yes, I suspect such is true, but even so I worry you could take ill,” Darcy muttered.

  “Well, worry not,” a voice echoed from behind another tree – drawing Darcy’s eyes away from Miss Bennet, “She is not unchaperoned for her stroll,” Archibald stepped into view.

  “Good day, Mr. Bingley. My apologies, I had not realized Miss Bennet had a companion. Forgive me, I should go.” Darcy murmured, lifting his hat and nodding toward both Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet respectfully.

  “Oh, please do not feel a need to abandon conversation, Mr. Darcy. My cousin has nothing but a kind word to say with regard to you, sir.” Archibald informed him. “And, please, allow me to take a moment to properly thank you for coming to Elizabeth’s aid. I am not sure what I would have done had you not been so kind as to return her to Longbourn.”

  “Most certainly, Mr. Bingley. I would have hated if my sister had found herself in such a position. It was only proper to ensure she received care with utmost urgency. I am honored and thankful I was available to assist. I would hate to imagine had I not been present to help her,” Darcy remarked. And what a fool you are for bringing her back here after such a fate!

  “Oh, gentlemen, I must insist that you both understand that I am perfectly well. It was most kind of you to assist as you did, Mr. Darcy. Just as you said, I cannot imagine what might have befallen me had you been absent. However, as you can clearly see, I am fine and Archibald is here to ensure I stay as such.

  “Please, do not feel obligated to stay in Netherfield simply due to my foolishness and negligence. I should have been more cautious. I know to keep my distance from the water’s edge at this time of year, but I suppose preoccupation can indeed be quite dangerous. I have learned my lesson, Mr. Darcy – and I can assure you such a thing shall never be repeated.” Elizabeth stated matter-of-factly.

  “It was positively horrifying to see you in such a condition, Miss Bennet. Surely, you must understand that I know many physicians. You should allow one to make certain you alright to be walking out of doors. I am not so sure that the cold has not already begun to affect you.” he answered solicitously.

  “You are genuinely concerned for her, Mr. Darcy,” Archibald interjected.“But worry not, kind sir. I will escort her back home with no dalliances, but you must understand that both Mrs. Bennet and myself have both tried to encourage her to see the doctor. Elizabeth has continually refused. I am here because of her insistence to recover her pride – as it seems that is what she feels was most injured. Though, I cannot fathom as to why.”

  Well, of course not, Mr. Bingley, women are strange creatures. Never do they make sense. Darcy reflected inwardly – though, once again, bridling his tongue seemed to be the most sensible thing to do.

  “I only wish to see a lady properly cared for after undergoing a terrible accident. Again, there is no need for continual gratitude,” Darcy remarked. “If you will excuse me, however, it seems I have been the rude one – here I have come uninvited to disrupt your walk. Please, pardon my reprehensible behavior.” Darcy finished. Elizabeth gave a slight nod and smiled briefly. Archibald strode over to her side, offering his arm.

  “Good day, Mr. Darcy,” Archibald stated with a tip of the hat.

  “Good day, Mr. Bingley,” he nodded, “Good day, Miss Bennet. Give my regards to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.”

  “Of course – enjoy your ride, Mr. Darcy, and keep an eye out for damsels in distress. You seem to be quite good at rescuing young ladies in desperate situations.” Elizabeth retorted.

  ***

  Darcy’s horse slowly trotted through the meadow just outside of the forest. It had been a good thirty minutes since he had departed Elizabeth and her bothersome companion, Archibald. The entire time he had conversed with him he felt a sickening feeling growing stronger within the pit of his belly – as if his very innards were twisting within at the sight of the two of them together. His mind – as illustrious as it was, seemed to paint portraits of Archibald’s lips upon Elizabeth’s or his hands embracing her. It shocked him how the imagery seemed to devour his every thought – and he could not think of one single way to eradicate it. The anguish was nearly unbearable and all Darcy wanted to do was put as much distance between himself and Longbourn as possible. But mostly he recognized an incessant need growing within him. A need that seemed to stem from the sight of Elizabeth, her enchanting grin dancing through his mind, and her curious and hopeful eyes that sparkled with a lively joy that he had not seen present in the eyes of any other young woman who had crossed his path. Truly, there was a charming uniqueness to Miss Bennet that not even he could explain. Of course, his first impression of her and her family had been in poor taste, but it was becoming apparent that did not deter suitors from seeking her hand.

  He rounded the corner of the road and noted that the sun had broken through the grey clouds, providing a brief respite from the gloomy winter that was only serving to further depress him. Darcy lifted his head slightly, a sense of obligation having been rooted in his chest,, he knew that he simply had to go call upon the Bennets again before departing. Despite Archibald’s reassurances, he felt the man to be a fool if he did not insist on Elizabeth’s seeing a physician prior to taking her for a walk. It seemed almost foolish, if not pure idiocy, to do such a thing. Though Darcy had to admit, Miss Bennet was the insistent sort who likely stormed off to do so just to spite those who wished she would stay put in her bed – safe and warm, where any wise young woman would have stayed. But then again, wisdom did not seem to be a virtue that Miss Bennet – or any of the Bennets, seemed to possess.

  And yet, having seen the two of them walking, Darcy felt it best to showcase a bit of that wisdom – affording some much-needed advice to the elder Bennets – with the hope that Mrs. Bennet’s insistence as a mother would force Elizabeth to consent to see the doctor. It was a task that he felt simply had to be done – or else Elizabeth might develop pneumonia and Darcy would have been beside himself – even feeling to blame for it. Even though Elizabeth had refused his offer, he knew that her refusal would be short-lived if he could persuade Mrs. Bennet to agree.

  Considering his choices, Darcy grinned impishly, knowing just what to do. First thing in the morning, he would enlist the assistance of both Bingley and his cousin, Archibald, to call upon the Bennets – with the physician already present. And, knowing Elizabeth’s routine, Darcy knew just when to arrive to ensure they did not miss her. It would work perfectly, and though it might anger Miss Bennet, Darcy knew he had to see to her welfare – after all, what sort of savior abandoned their rescued without knowing for sure that they were completely out of harm’s way?

  “Indeed, it seems the best resolution is to bring the necessary p
ersons to call upon the Bennets. In this way, I can be certain that Elizabeth has received adequate diagnosis and is well enough to be out of doors.” He mutteredunder his breath, though the only ears which heard were those of his horse. He patted the creature’s head gently, fingers tracing along its mane as he pulled at the reigns yet again, “A quicker pace, my friend.”

  ***

  “Bingley?” Darcy’s voice echoed through the house as he strode through the door.

  “Ah, Darcy – a fine time to finally see you. Where have you been?” Bingley asked.

  “Touring the countryside of Hertfordshire – and it seems, learning that your cousin escorts young ladies for strolls through the very fields they ought not to be venturing through again. I am curious,” Darcy began, “Where is he now?”

  “I suppose he is still at Longbourn. It is fascinating that you mentioned that misfortune. I believe that Archibald went to call upon the Bennets for that very reason earlier,” Bingley said nonchanlantly.

  “Well, I am curious as to why Miss Bennet would even be out of doors after her fall. Is your cousin so daft that he does not consider the possibility of illness? I just happened upon them both and was distraught to see Miss Bennet strolling through the woods just now,” Darcy uttered.

  “Perhaps, Archibald had no cause to deny her a simple pleasure. I cannot say I would have done so, but I have heard that Miss Bennet is an incredibly persuasive sort,” Bingley remarked.

  “Indeed, and even so, I feel it imperative for her to see my doctor before we leave Hertfordshire. I would feel entirely remiss should anything befall her due to this foolishness your cousin is encouraging. I simply cannot allow that.”

  “Then what do you propose?” Bingley asked.

  “I shall bring the doctor with us – the three of us. Archibald, yourself, the doctor and I shall call upon the Bennets tomorrow morning and then we can finally leave – as planned.” Darcy informed the man. And then I will never again have to face that eccentric young woman who seems to plague my every thought.

  Chapter Three

  The next morning came bright and early – the scent of dew seeming to permeate the air. Darcy knew that if he did not move swiftly that Miss Bennet might arise and begin her gravely foolish stroll yet again. Rushing to dress, he wished he had as many servants as the Bingleys to assist. Hopefully, neither of the two will dally too much. I would like to get this over with in haste.

  Clack. Clack. Clack. Clack. Clack.

  Darcy’s bootheels echoed off the wooden floor as he descended the staircase. He needed to move with utmost haste and it had caused a sour disposition to overtake him.

  “Mr. Bingley?” Darcy’s voice called. By presumption, dragging the younger Mr. Bingley along with himself and the elder Bingley, Darcy felt there would be little room for scandal. After all, he was only ensuring that the woman he had rescued was doing well. And, bringing the man she was rumored to be courting made the calling socially acceptable – if not a dutiful obligation for any esteemed gentleman.

  “Ah, good day, Mr. Darcy. Are you prepared for this rainy venture we are about to undertake?” Archibald greeted him.

  “Well, it only seems proper to ensure that Miss Bennet is properly seen to. I fear that a lack of money might deter her and I would feel entirely responsible if something horrid befell her. I am sure you feel the same. Do you not, Mr. Bingley?” Darcy asked.

  “Oh, I am learning that there is a fine, and possibly misunderstood, strength to Miss Bennet. Of course, I hold such a quality in high esteem – though I am certain many others find it in poor taste. Then again, perhaps, I am merely smitten by her charms,” Archibald demured.

  “Indeed, I do believe I saw a bit of that strength when she refused my initial offer to escort her home. Though, I cannot say my experience was anything similar to your own,” Darcy shared. Good, God, discussing her with him like this is pure torment! Why him of all eligible gentlemen?

  “My fears rest on that the two of you seem to have formed an obsession over the Longbourn household. Already, we have lost so much time fretting over them. Come on long now, gentlemen. Let’s go call upon them so as to move onward with our affairs – at least,” the elder Bingley’s voice interrupted.

  “I am in complete agreement, cousin,” Archibald grinned, dipping his head into a curt nod.

  “As am I,” Darcy muttered brushing past the elder Bingley and adjusting his coat slightly as he approached the door. And now, ready yourself for a lashing tongue and a proper reprimanding.

  ***

  The three gentlemen found themselves slowly approaching the drive of the Longbourn household. Up until this moment, Darcy had felt confident he was doing the proper thing, but as his eyes passed over the house an unsettling feeling came over him.

  “Oh, I can feel the excitement already rushing through me. It always seems to happen just before I come to visit,” Archibald muttered under his breath. Darcy gritted his teeth – the annoying man’s constant speech about her only made it worse. But, why on earth was he even bothered? This was the one aspect of it all he simply could not understand.

  “Oh, please. Spare us your continual moaning, cousin. We both know you have become completely absorbed with Miss Bennet. It is by far more than obvious,” the elder Bingley uttered derisively, drawing up his reigns as he took the front position and led the way toward the front of the house. “Do not fall behind, chaps.”

  “Well, you could have waited!” Darcy called after him, feeling even more disgusted by having been left with only Archibald to converse with. He was the last person Darcy cared to talk to just now. With a light kick of his boots, he sent his horse into a faster gallop – catching up to Bingley with ease. He would rather have ridden off into the gloomy terrain of Hertfordshire but he knew he had to hold his position.

  “I do not have the patience for waiting. That should be left to the servants,” the elder Bingley joked. Darcy immediately shot him a knowing glance.

  “Those are the sort of unsavory statements we should most certainly not use during our visit here, Bingley.”

  “Oh, surely you do not think me so daft as to be rude in front of them? I am not that foolish, Mr. Darcy,” he replied.

  “Well, with such words falling from your lips, how can I be certain? I already feel a bit overwhelmed simply coming here,” Darcy admitted.

  “Nonsense, the Bennets are not as terrible as you might think. I am sure of it. Now, straighten up, man and be the charming chap I know you to be,” Bingley suggested.

  Archibald’s horse came flying up toward the two men – just as they met the end of the drive. Mrs. Bennet’s face promptly appearing in the doorway, held a remarkably surprised expression. Darcy could not be sure if it were a pleasant surprise or not.

  “Oh, good day, Mr. Darcy – and to you as well, Mr. Bingley,” she paused to look past the elder Bingley with a nod toward Archibald, “And you, as well, Mr. Bingley.”

  “Good day, Mrs. Bennet. We have come to see how Miss Bennet is doing this day?” Darcy began, as he slid from his steed – holding the reigns out for the one servant standing at Mrs. Bennet’s side to take. Archibald and his cousin both followed Darcy’s lead.

  “Oh, well, please do come inside out of the rain. Would any of you like some tea?” Mrs. Bennet asked, her voice holding a soft and hospitable tone. As Darcy glanced over the elder Lady Bennet, he realized she had a genuine gentility to her. As if she had been born with the natural instinct of a true hostess.

  “How kind of you, Mrs. Bennet,” The elder Bingley stated, stepping forward to politely take her hand, his lips falling tenderly toward her finger tips as he greeted her, “I would be delighted to have some tea. As I am sure, would my cousin and Mr. Darcy.”

  “What is with all the commotion?” Mr. Bennet’s voice echoed just behind Mrs. Bennet as he peeked around the door to see who had arrived. “Oh, good day, Mr. Darcy, what a pleasure to see you have come to visit.”

  “Good day, Mr. Bennet. Yes, I hav
e come to check on Miss Bennet. I have been gravely concerned since she took her fall.”

  “I, too, have not been without worry. I hope that my coming to see Elizabeth with my cousin and Mr. Darcy is not too upsetting for you or Mrs. Bennet.” Archibald added.

  “Oh, nonsense! I am delighted to have company. Please, come sit in the parlor and I will collect Lizzy straightaway,” Mrs. Bennet reassured them. Gathering her skirts, she made hast toward the staircase and began ascending it instantly.

  “Tell me something, Fitzwilliam. Perhaps, you can be of assistance?” Mr. Bennet inquired.

  “If possible. How might I help?” Mr. Darcy asked curiously.

  “Well, I have heard that you know a thing or two about estate law. Is this true?” Mr. Bennet asked.

  “Oh, well I would not say I am nearly as knowledgeable as a lawyer might prove to be, but I do know a few things, yes,” Mr. Darcy countered deftly.

  “Well, you see I am curious to learn new methods for estate management. I have been hoping to get more of my affairs in order.”

  “Oh, well, I am positive I can offer a bit of advice on that,” Darcy remarked.

  The elder Bingley slapped his hand gently against Darcy’s shoulder and shook his head briefly. “If anyone can provide advice on such a topic it is surely Mr. Darcy,” Bingley stated. “However, I must insist that we move to the parlor so that I do not miss out on the tea Mrs. Bennet has promised me.”

  “Aye, Mrs. Bennet should be along shortly with the tea. Right this way to the parlor, gentlemen.” Mr. Bennet directed.

  ***

  “Now, you must understand that seeking out such information is a bit difficult at times and, naturally, all legal channels will hope to make more off managing an estate – so this does pose a bit of a problem where money might be concerned.”