He knew he sounded harsh and intolerant, but this was one time he could not intercede for his friend.
Caroline and Louisa continually coerced and took advantage of their brother’s good nature. It was about time they acknowledged their good fortune rested with Charles and to be aware that he could withdraw it at any time.
“By God, Darcy, you are right. And I have just the inducement that will make them accept my choice,” Bingley replied.
Fortified by his friend’s words and the brandy, he foolishly gulped down the remaining portion and then promptly choked when it caught in his throat.
As a coughing fit ensued, and he gasped for air, he finally managed to splutter,
“We ride now Darcy!”
It seemed love was finally giving Charles the courage to be the man Darcy knew he was capable of being. Darcy smiled whilst trying to suppress the laugh that threatened to break his countenance. Giving Charles several hearty slaps on the back, he advised him thus:
“We ride, once you have composed yourself, my eager young friend. If we arrive with you on your knees, and spluttering like an adolescent, any advantage will be lost, don’t you think?”
Unable to speak and still gasp for air, Charles merely nodded.
“Engaged, to be married?”
Caroline Bingley quizzed as she looked up at Charles and then scoffed in a dismissive tone,
“Surely you jest, dear brother. Had we not already decided on the unsuitability of the lady last year?”
“No, Caroline, you decided she was unsuitable, and I let myself be persuaded. My affection for Miss Bennet has never wavered, and I consider myself damn lucky she will still have me after I abandoned her so. You will be happy for me Caroline or so help me…” he left the threat to hang in the air.
“Or what Charles; Do not be tiresome and make me point out her lack of fortune or her ghastly family. I ask you Louisa, that mother, can you imagine.”
She turned to share a conspiratorial look with her sister, and they both sniggered openly.
Enraged at her dismissive tone and unkind words, Charles took a deep breath and squared his shoulders. Remembering Darcy’s advice, he decided to play his two trump cards together.
He stepped forward to stand between his sisters, then held Caroline’s gaze as he delivered his ultimatum.
“Or I can purchase a small cottage for you in Scarborough, close to Nanny Maud, where you may live quietly, with a nominal allowance until you marry. Assuming you can find someone immune to your corrosive tongue. The choice is yours Caroline, what is it to be?”
A sharp intake of breath from both Caroline, and Louisa reverberated around the otherwise silent room.
Darcy, who had stationed himself at the window overlooking the street, was glad his face was obscured from view. He did not think the two women would appreciate the wry smile that was firmly placed on his lips. Bravo Charles, he thought, an ace card.
The ladies exchanged worried looks at the mention of their former strict, and unbending governess. Her constant criticism and fault finding in the two sisters had been relentless. She had tried for years to change their acid personalities into caring and acceptable ones, clearly with little success.
Simultaneously, they rose from their seats, rushed to his side, and began to gush at his good fortune.
“How wonderful that dear Jane returned his feelings. How rewarding that he had secured such a pliable and gently bred girl,” they said.
They went on to enthuse that, under their tutelage, and with some time away from her mother, Jane would blossom from a country miss into a respectable lady of society.
Bingley glanced over his shoulder as Caroline again embraced him, and he cast his friend a beseeching look.
Darcy took pity on him, and once again, came to his rescue.
“As your sisters are in such a solicitous frame of mind, Charles, may I have your permission to also share my good news?” Bingley hastily nodded. “Very well ladies. It is with a full heart that I tell you I too am to be wed, to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. The ceremony will take place in Meryton, in a little over a month. You will attend I hope?” Darcy revealed with a smile.
Caroline drew in a sharp breath. She had spent the last few years with her cap firmly set on marrying Darcy herself. She had thought that in time, he would recognise her qualities, and the make her an offer. Now to hear this news!
Unguarded and with venom, she said,
“Goodness, are we to be overrun with young ladies from a certain Hertfordshire estate; are there no farmers they could take to their beds?”
“Caroline!” interjected Bingley, “you will apologise to our guest at once!”
“Charles, do not fuss so my friend. I know my news must have come as a shock, and so quickly on the heels of your glad tiding. But Caroline and Louisa will soon be rejoicing at the prospect of having not two, but five new sisters,” Darcy said slyly. “I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they will welcome my bride as they will yours Charles, with affection and sincerity.”
Darcy’s speech, though delivered under the guise of happy cordiality, was actually a thinly veiled threat. His stance and tone left no doubt in either woman’s mind. He would broach no interference or incivility to any of the Bennet sisters. One word from Darcy could see them ostracised from society, with no prospect of return unless at his particular invitation.
Caroline decided gracious acceptance was better that a cottage in Scarborough, while Louisa was tired of playing second fiddle to her sister’s malice.
They each joined in renewing their felicitations to both men, commenting on their wise choice of bride, and how sweet it would be to call them sister.
Thankfully, Bingley’s butler rescued them when he came in and announced that dinner was served.
Edward Hurst, who had watched the entire encounter from a corner divan, had an amused smile on his lips. It had been a pleasure watching Bingley stand up to his sisters, finally. But the best entertainment had been Darcy’s calm, yet deadly serious set down. As Hurst led the sisters into the dining room, he complimented them lavishly, soothing their battered egos, all the while quietly looking forward to their next meeting with Mrs Bennet.
Darcy and Bingley followed a few paces behind.
Darcy put his hand on Charles's shoulder and said,
“Tis done, we are all set then.”
Bingley returned the brotherly embrace, and as they followed the others into the dining room, their faces bore a smile of smug satisfaction.
CHAPTER 10
Darcy decided not to linger after dining at Bingley’s house, but returned home and went directly to the library.
With so much happening in such a short space of time, he knew he had been remiss in writing to his sister. He must rectify that with all haste before she heard about his engagement from another source.
Georgiana was more than ten years his junior, and from the time of their father’s death, five years previous, he had been both parent and brother to her. Although the responsibility was great, he bore it with fortitude, for he loved his sister dearly. Georgiana was a shy, yet bright girl, naive in the ways of the world. Because of this, she looked to her brother for guidance in all that she did. Too often, his business or social obligations took him from her side, sometimes for weeks at a time. To ease her loneliness, he had hired a widow to be her companion, one Mrs Annesley. He had discreetly made it known he was looking to employ his sister a companion and his Aunt Abigail, the Countess of Matlock, had put forward the lady’s name. Darcy had made vigorous enquiries and followed up all her references with a personal visit. Her late husband was a clergyman, who had died from consumption when only one and forty, leaving her alone and childless at thirty-two. Darcy thought this an agreeable age for Georgiana’s companion. Not so old as to be set in her ways or indifferent to things that would interest a young girl, yet not too young to be of a silly, or troublesome nature. She was well-read, musical and spoke several languages, as well as being acco
mplished in all the usual pursuits that occupied a lady’s time. He had invited her to spend a weekend at Pemberley with Georgiana, under the watchful eye of both himself and Mrs Reynolds. After her departure, Georgiana declared she liked her very well. Stating she had found her to be almost as knowledgeable as he was; finally, when Darcy was happy with her credentials and that she was of good character, he offered her the position, with a three-month probationary period. If either party felt dissatisfied during this time, they could terminate the contract with ease.
The arrangement had worked well, and she had been in his employment for eighteen months now.
It was unthinkable for Darcy to tell his sister about Elizabeth in a letter, and so he merely wrote her a short note.
Airwhile House,
London
Friday, November 8th 1811
My Dearest Georgiana,
I hope my missive finds you enjoying good health and taking care of yourself now winter is upon us.
I write to let you know that I will be journeying north on the morrow and hope to join you within two days of your receipt of this note.
I would like to introduce you to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. If you are in agreement, we will return directly and then spend a few weeks at Charles Bingley’s residence in Hertfordshire. I believe Charles would be most appreciative if you would act as his hostess while his sisters are in town.
Assuming the affirmative, I will join you anon.
Your affectionate brother,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
He folded the letter and stamped his seal on it.
Miller would despatch it first thing in the morning.
Wearily, he rubbed his brow and decided to retire. Tomorrow, he would make an early start back to Longbourn. He had yet to inform Elizabeth he would be journeying north for a few days, possibly a week. He must explain it was to bring Georgiana back to attend their wedding. He had shared only a few snippets of information with Georgiana about Elizabeth. She always loved to hear him talk about his travels, and the sparkling events he attended when in town; however, he had not revealed the depth of his regards for Elizabeth. He had merely divulged that he had met a most engaging young lady, who, unlike the majority of single females of marriageable age, along with their mamas, did not give a jot about his wealth or social position. He found her refreshingly honest. Georgiana had asked but one question of him that day.
“Is she fair of face, brother?”
“Miss Elizabeth Bennet is one of the most handsome women of my acquaintance,” he replied, and then in a soft, almost wistful tone, he murmured, “Yes Georgie, she is quite beautiful.”
Climbing the stairs, Darcy expected his slumber would be full of dreams about Elizabeth as they were every night. He longed for the comfort of it, yet dreaded waking to the realisation that it was indeed another fantasy.
Finally, Darcy thought. For the better part of the journey back to Longbourn, Bingley had constantly effervesced about the virtues of his intended, almost to the point where he was repeating himself. But at last, he had succumbed to the rhythm of the carriage and fallen asleep. Darcy had never seen such a lovesick pup in all his days, and the condition seemed to have addled his brain. It had been his sole topic of conversation for the entire journey. Darcy feared his poor ears could not take much more before he would have to berate his friend into silence. Thankfully, the carriage had done the job for him. Darcy embraced the quiet. He had much to occupy his thoughts before he set off for Pemberley tomorrow, and now Charles was silent, he could turn his thoughts to the task at hand. Also, he needed to speak to Elizabeth’s father on several matters before he left for Derbyshire. One subject, in particular, he did not relish bringing up and was steeling himself for a frosty reception, but it must be done. It would require tact, and firmness; attributes he thought he was well versed in, only never with one's future father-in-law before. It was imperative he did not offend Mr Bennet and then be forced to endure the consequences he could put in their path regarding their wedding, namely a long engagement.
Bingley roused about five miles from Netherfield and ran his fingers through his tousled red hair; though it still looked wild, he seemed to feel better for it.
“Well?" Bingley asked.
“Well, what Charles!” Darcy replied in a low tone, “and do not extol any more of Miss Bennet’s virtues to me, for I know them as well as any man, who is not her husband, should.”
He gave his now reticent friend a scowl and turned his attention back to the passing scenery.
Bingley, having observed Darcy end conversations in this manner before, knew it was best to intrude no further. The remainder of the journey passed in silence, and both men were relieved when the carriage drew up at the steps of Netherfield House.
Within the hour, the two friends were refreshed, mounted and on their way to Longbourn. It was a sober ride, but Darcy allowed himself a sly chuckle. It was one of the first times he had known Charles to be ready on time! Miss Bennet must be commended for achieving something he had been unable to instil in his friend for years; punctuality.
Mrs Hill showed them into the sitting room and advised them the mistress would be down directly. Only it was not Mrs Bennet who joined them, but Jane and Elizabeth. Darcy and Bingley bowed and then Darcy made a polite enquiry as to their well-being.
“It is good to see you again, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, I trust you are in good health?”
Jane smiled warmly and gave a small nod though her eyes never left her betrothed.
Undeterred Darcy continued,
“If agreeable,” he now looked directly to Elizabeth, “I thought Miss Elizabeth, and I might enjoy a turn in the garden, you are both welcome to join us if you so wish.”
Bingley and Jane exchanged glances and then shook their heads simultaneously, which made their smiles even broader.
Elizabeth quickly went and put on a pelisse, bonnet and gloves, then took Darcy’s arm as they stepped out into the garden. She was not surprised when he covered her hand with his own and guided her along the path. The warmth from his touch was like an electric shock that radiated up her arm. Although distracted by this sensation, she managed to hold her composure as they walked away from the house.
After a few minutes of silence, Darcy turned to glance at her.
“You and your sister seem in good health Miss Elizabeth, I trust it is so?”
Elizabeth smiled and was tempted to answer his enquiry in earnest, but the unexpected pleasure she felt at seeing him brought a smile to her lips, and she teased,
“Yes, I thank you, sir, we are both in excellent health. Now maybe we can discuss the mildness of these early winter days, and then say our polite conversation is concluded, that we may walk in silence?”
“You are most astute, Miss Elizabeth, and quite right. I do have a matter of business to discuss with your father, one that must be conducted in person.” He stopped to face her. “However, I could not pass up the opportunity to spend some time in your company madam.”
He bent low and kissed her hand, lingering a little longer than propriety allowed. His reward was a shy, but genuine smile of affection.
Elizabeth found their verbal sparring quite invigorating and had to admit she looked forward to it, but today it was the touch of his warm lips on her gloved hand that made her pulse race. She smiled her acceptance of his declaration, and they walked on.
“Miss Elizabeth, it seems unusually quiet at Longbourn today, your mother and sisters are they gone to Meryton?” he asked.
“You are only part correct sir; it is Brighton they are enjoying at present. Col. Forster and his wife invited them to be their guests, and Mama insisted they accept. Mary was reluctant at first, but the offer to experience sea bathing was enough to persuade her. I believe Kitty and Lydia were happy to accept the invitation without the promise of sea bathing. With the regiment already encamped there, I believe no further inducement was needed. Mama will also have the advantage of being able to purchase material new
ly shipped from the continent, for Jane and my trousseaus. I believe she has already engaged several ladies in the port to make our gowns.”
“I see,” Darcy said sombrely as a deep frown creased his brow.
“And do I assume Mr Wickham has also gone to Brighton with the regiment?”
Elizabeth wondered if he realised the pressure of his grip on her hands had also increased since the mention of Wickham. It was now quite painful.
“Yes, the regiment in its entirety removed to Brighton.”
As he had raised the subject of Wickham, she wondered if now would be a good time to ask him about their association?
Tentatively, she broached the subject.
“Mr Darcy, you once told me that your good opinion once lost, was lost forever, are you still of that mind?”
“I am Madam,” he replied curtly, apprehensive of where this was leading.
“And this is the case with Mr Wickham, is it not?”
“It is madam; why do you ask?” Darcy had visibly stiffened, and she could see the muscles of his jaw tighten.
“Forgive me, but if we are to deal at all well together, we must navigate a conversation on the subject of that very gentleman. You cannot deny that the mere mention of his name distresses you greatly.”
Darcy stopped, turned, and glared at Elizabeth.
She saw a thundercloud of anger cross his face at her suggestion, and he withdrew his hand from hers.
In an icy tone, he informed her,
“My quarrel with that man, for he is no gentleman, is of a private nature, madam. Should I be inclined to enlighten you, or to share my experiences at some future date, you will be the first to know.” Taking a step back, he continued, “I must speak with your father now, good day madam,” and with the briefest of nods, he returned the way they had come.
Mr Darcy's Struggle Page 7
