“You honor me, sir. Riding is my passion, more so than for many women; although Lady Drake may be one to share my level of enthusiasm. I am excited for the ladies’ ride. I like exploring nearly as much as riding.”
She looked out the door, momentarily self-conscious about sharing so much so quickly, but then recovered herself.
“I am pleased you will escort us. Mr. Darcy speaks highly of your expertise with horses. I value his judgment above all.”
Her partner flushed. The present dance was nearly finished.
“May I still have the honor of dancing with you, Miss Bennet, if you are now refreshed?”
“I should like that very much.”
Owen Wyndham proved a fine dancer in spite of his protests. Kitty was sure he must be a superior rider as well. He led the dance with power and grace, and kept his eyes on her but not in a way that made her uncomfortable. They did not have much conversation, but somehow that was not awkward. It felt right; almost as if the conversation took place on a wordless level, as it might with a horse. The partnership of the dance itself was not unlike riding horseback, and Kitty delighted in the sensations and was sorry when the set concluded.
During the next interval the four young ladies gathered together—with Benjamin, who would not leave Georgiana’s side. In order for the ladies to speak in confidence, Georgiana made him a request.
“Might you fetch me a cup of punch, sir? I find I am still thirsty.” He bowed and was off.
Then she turned to Kitty. “You opened the ball with such elegance; you were a fine match with my brother.”
“Thank you. It was a little frightening at first, but he is a strong partner. The whole world seemed to light up like magic. I am so grateful … such a memorable night … I cannot express …” she paused, breathless.
“I saw you dance with Mr. Benjamin at least twice, am I correct?” Julia asked.
Georgiana blushed. “Three times. Do you think anyone is counting? I hope to partner him at least once more, preferably for the final dance; that always seems the most romantic.”
Julia laughed. “I doubt anyone here is counting. This is not Almack’s, after all. We are a friendly neighborhood and, if one is to dance every dance, one must partner with some gentlemen more than twice. Besides, several of the older gentlemen who were dancing have now retired to the card room. No, I think you are safe, Georgiana; at least from counting. I must say though, your regard for each other is quite apparent to anyone looking for such a clue.”
“Even to those not looking!” chimed Matilda. “Do not ever choose to be an actress, Georgiana; your performance would be poor indeed.”
Their laugh was interrupted by a sultry voice.
“What delicious gossip amuses you, ladies?”
They turned to see Miss Lucy Jamison, radiant in an elegant gown the color of the morning sky.
“And does this evening’s ball please you, Miss Jamison?”
“Oh, most assuredly. Mr. Drake claimed the first two with me, of course. He cuts quite the dash. He and my brother are very good friends, you know. My brother Douglas, that is. They are both so worldly—always riding off to Town or to some watering hole or other. As elder sons, they have social reputations to keep and business connections to make.”
Lucy smoothed her skirt before continuing. “I did notice, Miss Darcy, that Mr. Benjamin favors your company. Of course, younger sons must look to their fortunes as well. I believe he is studying the law, am I correct?” She lifted an inquisitive brow.
Kitty watched in fascination as a neutral mask slipped over Georgiana’s features, similar to what Kitty had seen on Lizzy in certain social situations.
“I cannot tell you. He and I are not on intimate terms; we are merely neighbors of long standing. I imagine the law, or the church, or the Navy would be suitable options for him, as for any second son. Pray, what are the professional plans of Mr. Owen?”
Lucy tittered. “Poor Owen. I believe he would prefer to be a stable boy above anything. However, the church is the likely profession for him. He lacks the swagger of an officer, in my opinion. And what of your brother, Miss Stapleton? As eldest, he will of course inherit.”
Matilda scowled. “Our brother is dedicated to science, and schools himself in Edinburgh with our uncle, a well-known geologist. Of course Andrew will inherit. But he will accomplish much in his field as well.”
“Very true. The men have so many choices. Do you have a young man in the neighborhood that you prefer, Miss Matilda?”
Matilda’s scowl deepened.
“Oh, I fear I am too impertinent. I do beg your pardon.”
Christopher’s deep voice intruded on the awkward silence left in the wake of Lucy’s comment.
“Such a bevy of beauties. How shall I choose only one? The next dance begins soon. May I solicit your hand, Miss Darcy? And, if Miss Stapleton is not already engaged, might she save the next for me?”
Both ladies curtsied their consent.
Lucy huffed. Angry blotches burst out on her pale complexion. She glared at Christopher, turned up her nose and flounced off, leaving confused expressions on the faces of the other young ladies and a knowing smirk on Christopher’s.
“Some ladies enjoy a game and a challenge,” he quipped. He made a little bow in the direction of Lucy’s departure. “Checkmate, Miss Lucy.” Inexplicably, he failed to notice the wide-eyed shock expressed on the countenances of the ladies surrounding him; or perhaps he noticed but did not care.
With the ball being in her honor, Kitty enjoyed the attention of dancing with nearly every gentleman present, including Squire Stapleton, Mr. Wyndham, and Lord Drake. Georgiana introduced her to four other young men and three other young ladies from the neighborhood.
Kitty looked about her. Did the neighborhood families wonder about her fortune? Did they think Darcy might dower her? Lizzy’s elegance as hostess certainly disguised the reality of the Bennet sisters’ more modest upbringing. No one would guess a refined lady like Lizzy would have filial relations of questionable reputation and poor judgment.
Kitty danced two more sets with Andrew Stapleton. She had never known a gentleman more charming. The officers from Meryton whom she had found so fascinating in the past—mostly at Lydia’s suggestion—now seemed common and dull. Except for Captain Carter. She had held serious feelings for him, but he had planted his affection in the more lucrative garden of Miss Amelia Grange when she inherited twelve thousand pounds. They married some months ago.
Whilst Kitty’s heart had been broken for weeks, her head understood that many officers—often being younger sons—also desired or needed to marry well. The rules of society created nearly as dismal a reality for them as for young ladies without fortune or connection, like herself and her sisters.
But Jane and Lizzy had risen, and so would she—it seemed not so impossible in company such as this.
Jane and Lizzy had been lucky enough to fall in love with men of good fortune. Lydia had followed baser urges and, after much trouble and disgrace, married a gaming feckless fool who did not care a rush for her or their life together. No one knew what sister Mary envisioned; she took no interest in meeting gentlemen or in any kind of social life and spent her time alone or with her dear friend Ada.
Kitty was determined to find a handsome man who could support her grandly, or at least comfortably. If he were an excellent horseman, a good dancer, and had other interesting pursuits—such as science—all the better.
Kitty wandered towards the terrace doors, which had been flung wide on the warm May evening. She looked for her friends again and spied Georgiana down the way, on the arm of Christopher Drake. Her face was contorted. It appeared he was attempting to lead her onto the terrace—alone.
“Miss Bennet,” a calm voice addressed her, “may I …”
She turned to find Owen at her shoulder.
On seeing her look of alarm, he followed her gaze to the distressing scene.
“Come,” he said in a firm voice, �
�we must prevent this.” He offered his arm, and they moved hastily in Georgiana’s direction.
What would he do? Would he fight? Kitty did not know his temperament but she soon saw his strategy.
Owen positioned himself so as to directly block the only access to the terrace, with Kitty at his side. Many small groups had gathered in the cooler air near the opening. He and Kitty filled the only empty spot.
“I say, Drake, the evening is quite warm. Perhaps we might fetch refreshments for the ladies? Do come with me.” Owen’s words had a friendly air but his voice strongly suggested Christopher’s compliance.
Georgiana’s eyes grew large.
Christopher seemed momentarily discomfited. A flush brightened his face and he looked left and right. There was no polite way to refuse such a proffered task.
“Thank you,” Kitty said, boldly giving Owen’s arm a slight squeeze. “The evening is warm, it is not? A drink would be most refreshing.”
“Yes, indeed,” Georgiana managed weakly.
“Capital. We shall return shortly.”
Owen patted Kitty’s hand and gave her a speaking look. His countenance remained serious, but there was a slight twinkle in his eyes. The young men walked away and Kitty moved to Georgiana’s side and took her arm.
With a trembling breath, Georgiana said, “He has been trailing me all evening. I don’t understand it. I know he does not care for me. As the eldest son, he will inherit Cedars. There is no reason for him to pursue my fortune.”
“Perhaps no amount of fortune is enough for some men?” Kitty mused aloud. “Now, let us get you somewhere less precarious before they return. There, Mr. Darcy and Lizzy are not far off. I wonder that Lizzy has not danced much this evening; perhaps her hostess duties prevent her? Christopher won’t try his tricks in Mr. Darcy’s presence.” The girls walked off arm in arm.
“But what about Mr. Owen?” Georgiana asked.
“Oh, he is in on the scheme,” Kitty confided. “When he saw my alarm for you, he took action at once. He has very good instincts,” she remarked, half to herself, remembering he had also noticed her need for rest and refreshment before dancing.
Darcy and Lizzy received them happily.
“Well, girls, are you finding enough pleasant partners tonight?” Lizzy asked, her eyes shining. “The dancers appear younger and younger as the night wears on, do you not agree, my dear?” she voiced, turning to Fitzwilliam.
“They are a determined lot, I give them that,” he said, looking well pleased with the event. “It is wonderful to be part of such a pleasant neighborhood.” He patted Lizzy’s hand as it rested on his arm.
“I agree. Oh, I see two younger men headed our way. I am sure they will compete for my hand. Whom do you recommend I chuse?” Lizzy arched her brow at Fitzwilliam.
“Neither, my love, for you will be dancing with me.” And with that, he led Lizzy over near to the musicians and spoke to the maestro. A more sedate dance number was announced.
The young men arrived with punch, as promised. Owen first looked at Kitty with narrowed eyes, then handed a cup of punch to Georgiana.
“Miss Darcy, may I request the next dance? Once you have partaken of your punch, of course.” He slyly eyed Kitty again.
Christopher was flustered. With a slight bow, he handed Kitty a cup and managed to recover his swagger.
“And Miss Bennet, may I have the honor?”
Kitty curtsied her agreement, silently annoyed at her part in the scheme. She decided she had no patience with any young men who used the word “enchanté.” But never mind that; she would help Georgiana.
As she reached near Owen to place her empty cup on a table, he whispered, “Will you save the last for me, Miss Bennet?”
His eyes found hers and read her answer.
Owen whisked Georgiana away and Kitty resigned herself to her partner.
“How long is your stay at Pemberley, Miss Bennet?” Christopher asked as the set formed.
“I am not certain. But I shall likely stay most of the summer.” The stately dance allowed several pauses for conversation. “And what of your summer plans? What pursuits interest the young men hereabouts?”
“Oh, I travel about a great deal. I have many business connections I must attend to. And many friends in all the fashionable places,” he replied with a toss of his hair.
“Do you leave a beau behind in Hertfordshire, Miss Bennet?” he asked, a wicked gleam in his eye.
“Mr. Christopher, that is most impertinent, and I shall not answer you. Please choose another subject.” Her eyes flashed. She felt no compunction to protect his feelings. She was sure he had no special tendré for her.
Proving her right, he laughed heartily and had nothing more to say for the rest of the set.
Soon the final dance of the evening was announced. Kitty looked about for her friends. Georgiana’s face was wreathed in smiles as her most desired partner led her to the floor. Matilda was matched with the cousin of a neighbor. Julia stood up with Douglas, but her countenance was expressionless. Lucy looked adoringly at Christopher as they joined the set. Nearby, Fitzwilliam and Lizzy were together again.
“Ahem. Miss Bennet. May I have the honor?” It was not the voice she expected. Andrew Stapleton’s face held an amiable smile. “Pray, has someone else spoken for this dance?” he asked when she glanced about her.
“Oh … yes … well, I am so sorry. I did promise this dance, but I do not see the gentleman anywhere about. I am not sure what to do?” An awkward blush crept up her neck.
“Do not concern yourself, Miss Bennet. May I wait here until he arrives? I cannot imagine anything more important than a dance with you.”
It sounded like something Christopher might say, but Andrew spoke with such sincerity that Kitty believed it was not false flattery. He did not seem the kind of man to offer such.
“Thank you. Yes, I should like your company. I would feel awkward standing here alone.” Most of the dancers had taken their places but still there was no sign of Owen.
After a few minutes, Andrew said, “Well, Miss Bennet, shall we? If the gentleman does arrive and endeavors to cut in, I shall graciously but unhappily allow it.”
“You are very kind, Mr. Andrew.”
Andrew’s understanding raised him even more in Kitty’s estimation, and she turned all her attention towards him and his many charms.
All but a tiny thread that wondered why Owen Wyndham had not kept his engagement.
Chapter Eleven
The sun was riding high by the time Kitty stirred the next day. At first she was alarmed, but then remembered Lizzy had said they would all sleep late. The ball had lasted until nearly dawn. The tea at Kitty’s bedside could not even be called tepid, but her appetite was strong. It must be nearly noon. She rose and rang the bell.
Poppy appeared in minutes with fresh tea, followed by a footman with warm water for her basin. As Kitty’s eyes swept the dressing room, she noted her gown and other items had been neatly taken care of. It felt almost sinful to have someone wait on her in such a way. Had Lizzy become comfortable with this?
While Poppy was in the dressing room chusing the needed items of clothing, Kitty’s thoughts wandered back to the night before and the last dance with Andrew. The compliment he had given her then still warmed her heart: “You are the loveliest lady here, Miss Bennet. Your grace, the kindness in your eyes, your pleasant countenance, and your curiosity to learn are unduplicated in this crowd. I look forward to knowing you better.”
Her thoughts then drifted to Owen. What had become of him? He was attractive, to be sure, but she reminded herself that she sought a partner she could depend upon to provide her with a life of elegance and ease. Perhaps Owen’s temperament was too mercurial? And could she be content with a clergyman?
When Poppy returned with a gown, Kitty prepared herself for the day, which would likely be quiet and restful.
The breakfast room was deserted, but she found Lizzy taking tea in the drawing room. Ther
e was a basket of muffins and some toast and fruit and cold meat. Kitty took a muffin and sat next to Lizzy on the settee.
“Well, Kitty, did the ball live up to your expectations?”
“Oh, Lizzy, it exceeded all my fondest hopes! I find a private ball far preferable to the public assemblies, at least the ones in Meryton. I still danced nearly every dance, but on my own account and not because I was with Lydia. And of course, being in the Darcy household and opening the ball, well, I’m sure that all helped. But yes, I had a wonderful time. What about you, Lizzy? You did not dance as much as you had used to.”
“My duties as hostess come first, Kitty. No, I did not dance more than a few dances. But I enjoyed myself very much, and had many conversations with neighbors I had not seen of late. Some of us move in different circles when we are in Town. And of course, Darcy is not fond of balls in general. I do believe he enjoyed this one—and his role launching you into society.”
Both drank their tea and sampled more of the fare on offer.
“I know I was ‘out’ before I came here, Lizzy, but this feels different. Then, I was always in Lydia’s company. Now people are coming to know me for myself instead of as Lydia’s sister. It has been difficult to shake her shadow, and I thank you again for inviting me here. I believe I now have a chance to … well, people here will know me on my own merits.”
“Yes, I believe you shall have a far better chance here. I did notice that, other than the first dance to open the ball, your own first and last were with Mr. Andrew.” She gave Kitty a mischievous look as she sipped her tea.
“He is dashing, Lizzy. His profession in science is interesting. He is a fine dancer, very handsome, and kind. And an excellent horseman. Nothing is wanting. I enjoy his company very much.” She paused and looked at Lizzy. “Curiously, I have also found Mr. Owen Wyndham appealing, in a much different way.”
Lizzy arched a brow.
“But I wonder if he—”
Just then Darcy entered the room. “Ladies. What a fine day it is. I have had a refreshing ride. Kitty, I assumed you would prefer to sleep this morning or I would have requested your company.”
Her Summer at Pemberley Page 9
