“Father, might Mr. Benjamin and I escort the ladies on a short walk whilst you make arrangements with Mr. Darcy?”
Georgiana and Benjamin looked at each other hopefully.
Was Andrew aware of their mutual attraction? Likely; his sister was Georgiana’s best friend.
The squire looked around at the young people.
“Why not? But you are not released from exploring that site with your uncle, Andrew, however more desirable the female company may be.”
Andrew smiled. “No, of course not, Father. I am as eager as he to find samples. But I am also eager to make the better acquaintance of Miss Bennet.” He nodded at Kitty.
“Very well. Thirty minutes.”
“Thirty minutes it shall be.”
Soon the four were taking in the fresh air and wholesome views of the countryside, although the focus of each pair was not on the distant hills and valleys. Georgiana and Benjamin strolled along, their eyes locked, enchanted expressions on their faces.
Andrew gave Kitty a knowing look. “They are well matched, if I may be so bold. Surely you see it too, if Miss Darcy has not yet confided in you. I secure them time together when I can.”
“What a good friend you are,” Kitty replied. “I admire such loyalty. It is not so commonly found, is it?”
“Perhaps not at our age. I believe loyalty grows as integrity is tested. Sometimes it is difficult to determine who is worth our loyalty, do you not agree?”
Kitty’s lips eased into a gentle smile. “It is also not common to find such philosophical conversation amongst those our age. I must admit I find it interesting.” To herself, she added that she also found Andrew interesting. Most interesting.
Remembering what his sister had related, she said, “I witnessed your excellent horsemanship at the Red Lantern. Your sister says you enjoy the steeplechase and are a bold but considerate rider.”
Andrew’s eyes lit up. “Ah, well, my sister is very kind. Yes, I do love to ride, and some may call my riding bold. Of course, the steeplechase itself is a rather daring—some might say reckless—activity. However, I am careful to ensure the safety of my mount. And I never gamble on the results, as some do.”
He looked down for a moment as they walked along, then turned to her again.
“Julia has related that you are also a horsewoman. May I offer my services as one of the escorts for the ladies’ ride I understand is being planned?”
By now Georgiana and Benjamin had lagged far behind, which concerned Kitty.
“We should make our way back; it would be best if we all appear as one party when we approach the house. Although I am not in charge of the ladies’ ride, we will need more than a few good horsemen to accompany us. Speak with Lady Drake?”
“Good, excellent. She is one of the finest riders I have seen— woman or man—and is very pleasant and kind. Her younger son takes after her in manner as much as he does in looks. And Lord Drake is a jovial fellow. I will discuss it with her.”
It was not lost on Kitty that he most specifically did not comment on the Drakes’ elder son.
“Will you be able to join us at the ball?” she asked, hopeful he did not have to return to Scotland any time soon.
“Indeed I will. May I be so bold as to claim the first dance, Miss Bennet?”
Regret rushed in. “I am honored, Mr. Stapleton, but I shall dance the first two with Mr. Darcy. The ball is partly in my honor—it is my official coming out—so we will open the ball.”
“Then the next? May I claim the next?” he asked with an appealing crooked grin.
A thrill bubbled within her. “You may, Mr. Stapleton, and I am delighted to accept.”
≈
Darcy and Lizzy, as well as the squire and Mr. Robertson, awaited the young people. The horses were being brought up.
“Thank you, ladies, for your pleasant company,” said Andrew, with Benjamin joining him in a bow.
Smiles shone in both the young ladies’ faces, and they curtsied while Lizzy and Darcy looked on.
“Please, sir,” Georgiana called out to Andrew, “do tell your sisters we shall come to them tomorrow if the weather allows.”
“I am sure they shall be pleased at that,” he replied.
The visitors mounted their horses. Andrew’s mount was by far the most spirited—a perfect match for his spirited blue eyes. With a last wave, three gentlemen headed down the lane and took a quick turn to the north towards the exploring area. Benjamin made for the south and home.
Georgiana could not hide the love and joy in her eyes as she watched her beloved ride off. Had Lizzy noticed? At present, Lizzy still seemed preoccupied with her own thoughts.
Kitty watched her sister walk quietly beside Darcy as they all returned to the house.
Chapter Eight
Leaden skies and a mizzling rain filled Kitty’s view as she peered out the window. Poor Father, such a dreary day to travel.
The breakfast room was deserted. The walnut clock had not struck eight and to Kitty’s surprise neither Darcy nor her father were at the table. She helped herself to the day’s offerings and was pouring more tea when Lizzy entered the room, followed in the next moment by Georgiana.
“What a dreary morning,” Georgiana mumbled.
“I hope Father will be able to stay ahead of the worst of this storm,” Lizzy remarked, looking out the window.
“That is just what I was thinking,” Kitty said. “By the way, where is he?”
“I just spoke to him on the stairs. He would take his coffee in the library. We can say goodbye in the great hall. I do wish he would stay longer. He does not seem his usual self.”
They ladies ate in silence, listening to the tapping of the rain on the window.
Kitty was soon summoned for a fitting of her riding habit. Only minor adjustments were needed. She also tried on the hats and chose the more serviceable one. Then she made for the library to find a book on the species of trees she might see thereabouts. As she rounded the corner she stopped—the door was ajar. Pondering whether to knock first or just enter, she overheard voices within and inched closer.
“Papa, are you sure you must leave so soon? Your spirits seem much depressed on this visit and your temper shorter than I ever remember. I know you enjoy the restful atmosphere here.”
“I do, Lizzy, but I must leave as planned. No rest for the wicked. There are seasonal duties to oversee at Longbourn, though these no longer excite me now it is certain the estate will not stay in the family. As ridiculous as Mr. Collins is, I had hoped he might choose Mary or Kitty for his bride. Ah well, nothing to kick up a dust about.”
Kitty drew a careful breath. She had never considered that her father might have affection for the estate that was being entailed away. His life’s work would go to Mr. Collins! No wonder he was often in a pucker. Perhaps his barbed humor was meant to disguise his true feelings. She had never thought about his feelings before and flushed with shame.
“Papa, although things may seem final now, we never know what Providence has in store. Please, do not give in to such melancholy. Many things could change in the years ahead.”
“You think that Lizzy, if it comforts you. I do miss your lively company at home, my dear. I fear I have not been very kind or patient with Mary or Kitty. I am angry with myself for not taking better care of you all. My only comforts now are books and brandy.”
“Well, perhaps when your seasonal duties are done you can return here for a longer visit. Do what you can for Mary, Papa. And if I may be so bold as to advise my parent, do not seek so much solace in brandy. I shall do what I can for Kitty. She has a great deal of promise, in my eyes, and is interested in many things. I fear she was much overshadowed by Lydia. I am sorry Jane and I did not include her more; she is, after all, only a few years younger than I.”
“Now, now, do not blame yourself, Lizzy. I think Lydia blinded us all to many things. Such was her large and demanding personality. She delighted in keeping everything astir. It was all I
could do to retreat to my library and— looking back—I believe that was not the best policy. I have been a chucklehead. I am sure Kitty will have a wonderful summer here with you and Darcy. I am sorry I had so little sympathy for her plight.”
“Then let us make an agreement, Papa. After a few months we shall reunite—either here or at Longbourn—and celebrate the advances made by all.”
“Lizzy, my dear, you do lift my spirits. I promise to be off in good humor. Do not worry; I have no intention of putting a period to my life. I am sure I shall still find great solace in my library—and I will try to find less in brandy. Your advice is worth heeding, my dear, as the past has proved. Do write to me often.”
“Of course I will.”
Kitty quietly backed up and turned away, tears welling in her eyes. She dabbed at them with her handkerchief, then walked to the library door and knocked firmly. “Hello? May I enter?”
Lizzy appeared at the door with Mr. Bennet behind her.
“Ah, Kitty, we were just leaving to gather Papa’s cloak and traveling gear. Come, walk with us.”
Mr. Bennet turned an unaccustomed kindly eye on Kitty and offered her his arm.
She looked into his face and to her surprise found some welcome there. Taking his arm, she could only think to say, “I hope you can stay ahead of the rain, Papa.”
He patted her arm.
≈
The coach bearing Mr. Bennet disappeared into the fog, and the butler was closing the door when Kitty caught sight of a rider racing towards Pemberley. He saluted the carriage as it passed, his cloak flying behind him.
“Who would be out in this miserable weather?” Lizzy asked.
Georgiana gasped.
“Why, I believe it is Benjamin Drake!” replied Darcy. “I hope nothing is wrong … come in, man, come in. Is everyone well? How can I be of service to you?”
Benjamin glanced slyly at Georgiana as he shook off his cloak and the footman made to hang up his wet garments.
“Thank you, but all is well at Cedars. I had thought to come visit the Misses Darcy and Bennet to break up the long dreary day. The rain is not likely to become worse at present.”
Darcy frowned. “That dark sky tells me a more menacing tale but … well … you are always welcome here, Mr. Benjamin.”
“Thank you, sir.”
Lizzy’s dimple was bursting forth and she could not contain the sparkle in her eyes as it spilled into laughter.
“Perhaps some tea will warm us all. Wilson, can you have it brought to the music room please?”
“Of course,” he replied and turned away.
“I am sorry to be brief but I must meet with my steward. May I leave the ladies in your capable hands, Mr. Benjamin?”
“Indeed, sir, I am honored.”
Darcy strode off and the others entered the music room.
“Mr. Benjamin,” said Lizzy, “will you be with us for the ball next week? Your parents said you were delayed in Town last week. I hope your business there was concluded.”
He glanced at Georgiana and colored. “My business … oh, yes it is concluded for now, although not finalized.” He eyed Georgiana again. “I certainly shall attend the ball. May I take this opportunity to request the first two dances with you, Miss Darcy? Or do you open the ball?”
Georgiana blushed and smiled as he eagerly engaged her eyes.
“I will be delighted to reserve the first two for you, Mr. Benjamin. It is Miss Bennet who will open the ball and will dance the first two with my brother.”
“Thank you, Miss Darcy,” he replied, momentarily spellbound. Then he shook his head, as if remembering himself and said, “Miss Bennet, may I request the next set with you?”
“I am honored, but I have promised the next already.”
“Ah, then surely the third may still be open? Unless you would be too tired?” He looked at Kitty hopefully.
“I have been accustomed to dancing every dance at our local assemblies; I am sure I shall not be too tired. I thank you, and happily accept.”
Lizzy gave her sister a perceptive look. “Your card is filling up quickly, Kitty. It seems you will not be unknown in our neighborhood for long.”
After pleasant exchanges about news from the area and from Town, Benjamin cast his gaze towards the window. A heavy mist had coated the panes.
“I am relieved Mother did not attempt to travel this morning. I should return now so she does not worry. She is most eager to see you again, Miss Bennet. And is already talking of the ladies’ ride.”
Kitty and Georgiana exchanged a look and Kitty said, “I look forward to exploring the area round about, and also becoming better acquainted with Lady Drake.”
He offered his arm to Georgiana as they all rose.
“I shall see Mr. Benjamin out, Lizzy,” Georgiana offered, assuming an air of nonchalance. But the meaningful look the couple exchanged as she took his arm was far more revealing than her words.
Kitty looked at Lizzy, whose eyes danced in amusement as she watched them leave.
Lizzy then said, “I sincerely hope true love finds a way. And I am not above giving true love a little assistance where needed.” She gave Kitty a wink and the sisters shared a hearty laugh.
≈
“Do not be surprised if we receive a call from the Wyndhams yet today,” Darcy announced after his meeting with his steward. “It seems our stable lads have exchanged news with Greystone’s—the Wyndham sons are eager to meet our guest of honor.” He gave Kitty a nod.
“There are two brothers, are there not?”
“Yes,” Lizzy replied. “Two brothers, very different indeed. I shall say no more; you must form your own opinion.”
“So many new acquaintances,” Kitty said. “It is just what I hoped for, Lizzy. Thank you again for inviting me to visit here—both of you.”
“Well, Georgiana,” Darcy said, “our home has become much more lively these past two years, has it not?”
“Very much, brother. I must say I heartily approve, and I too am grateful.”
“Kitty, Mrs. Jenson needs a fitting of your gown, so make haste. Our callers may arrive at any moment.”
“I shall go with her,” Georgiana offered. She took Kitty’s arm and, as the young ladies headed out the door, whispered a little too loudly, “I hope it is only the gentlemen calling today.”
Kitty glanced back in time to see Darcy shaking his head and smiling.
≈
It wasn’t long until the young ladies were summoned to greet the Wyndhams. It was as Georgiana had hoped—only the gentlemen were present.
The girls entered the drawing room, and the gentlemen rose.
Mr. Wyndham bowed and said, “Miss Bennet, may I introduce my sons—Mr. Douglas Wyndham and Mr. Owen Wyndham. This is Mrs. Darcy’s sister, Miss Catherine Bennet, from Hertfordshire.”
Kitty curtsied gracefully and smiled at the two young men before her.
“Enchanté, Miss Bennet,” said Douglas, the elder, sweeping an elaborate bow.
The younger said, “Good morning, Miss Bennet,” with a simple bow.
The two were quite different in appearance. The elder had light brown hair and eyes and a stocky build; the younger looked much like his father with dark curls, a lean build, and the same steady grey eyes.
“I am pleased to meet you both,” Kitty said.
Douglas turned to Lizzy. “Our mother and sister send their regrets this morning, Mrs. Darcy. Too muddy by half. And they are quite occupied with gowns and other endeavors.”
“Oh, I am pleased they will join us, as I assume you both will?” Lizzy inquired.
“Certainly, Mrs. Darcy, we very much anticipate the first social event of the summer,” replied Douglas smoothly. His eyes roamed from Georgiana to Kitty and back again. “And may I have the pleasure of requesting the first dance with you, Miss Darcy?” he beamed, appearing sure of a positive reply.
Georgiana looked down. “I am sorry, the first is promised, Mr. Douglas.”
“Certainly. I would be delighted,” Georgiana replied with a small smile.
“And Miss … Bennet, is it? May I have your promise for a dance as well?”
“I would be honored, although—”
Lizzy came to her rescue. “My sister, as guest of honor, will open the ball with Mr. Darcy. Then, I believe, she has already promised the second and third sets. Can you be satisfied with a fourth position, Mr. Douglas?”
His eyes widened in surprise but he recovered quickly. “It will be my honor.”
“Thank you,” Kitty replied.
“Now, Owen, we’ve not heard from you,” his father said.
“As you know, Father, I am no great dancer. But I would be honored to stand up with both Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet, if they will have me. Perhaps the dance after my brother?”
“Yes, of course, Mr. Owen,” replied Georgiana.
“I shall be delighted, Mr. Owen,” Kitty said with a kind smile, curious about his manner. She saw a slight flush in his face. Very different indeed. He displayed none of the swagger or dash of the other young men she had met thus far in Derbyshire.
“Well, there we have it; the evening is all set,” Mr. Wyndham pronounced with a smile.
“These cakes are delicious, Mrs. Darcy. You certainly do have a marvelous cook.”
“Thank you. I shall pass on your compliments,” Lizzy said.
As the conversation continued, the elder brother dominated all exchanges, often looking at Miss Darcy for a reaction.
The younger brother said little but had an unspoken awareness to him and keenly watched all that occurred. Kitty could easily believe he had a way with horses. She felt him aware of her as well, though he did not meet her eye.
Not, that is, until they were departing. The ladies accompanied the gentlemen through the front door as their horses were brought up. Kitty observed how Mr. Wyndham and his youngest son related to their mounts, whilst the elder brother focused his efforts on amusing Miss Darcy.
Her Summer at Pemberley Page 7
