Mr Bennet nodded his head. “I am grateful for your arriving as quickly as you did.” “I was preparing to come to check on both of my patients, so I was just leaving my office as the boy came for me. I will now check on Mr Darcy. There are some other patients on which I need to pay calls, before I return home for dinner. If there are any problems, after I leave, send word to my home. Otherwise, I will return first thing in the morning.”
~~ ** ~~ Darcy was becoming agitated, wishing to see for himself that Elizabeth was improving. Richard came back with the report that she was neither better nor worse, and to Richard, that was a good sign. To Darcy, it was agonizing to wait for reports. Richard wished to keep his cousin calm and in his bed, for the physician was concerned with Darcy’s wound opening up. If that were to happen, there was a chance of Darcy taking a fever as well.
Well after midnight, Darcy was still awake. He could hear someone in the hallway, and then the door down the hall opened and closed. Darcy was certain that the person had entered the room where Elizabeth was located. It was pure agony, waiting and praying. Sleep refused to come to Darcy, as he continued to fret over her well-being.
By morning, Darcy was frustrated to the point of causing him to lose control of his tongue. Though he knew his cousin and the staff of the inn were doing all they could to bring comfort to Darcy, the Master of Pemberley could not find a civil word for anyone.
~~ ** ~~ Mr Gardiner decided it would be best if he were to make the journey to London with his sister and youngest niece. Fanny Bennet would be introduced to several of his friends, in hopes that a job would be found for her, while Lydia would be taken to a school on the outskirts of Town. Mr Bennet had written letters, one to be sent express to Longbourn to alert Mr and Mrs Hill, the housekeeper and steward, informing them of the situation and of Mrs Bennet’s removal from his home. Another was to the solicitor Mr Bennet used and one to the head mistress at the school for Lydia. He also authorized Mr Gardiner to access his bank account for the ten pounds to give Fanny, and to pay for Lydia’s tuition.
Mrs Gardiner would remain in Liverpool, to be of assistance to her nieces and Mr Bennet. It was decided that Mr Gardiner would remain in Town for a month, seeing to business and making certain Fanny did not cause further problems, and would bring their children to Pemberley at the end of the month.
Having already arranged with Colonel Fitzwilliam for transportation to Pemberley for the remaining Bennets and Mrs Gardiner, Edward Gardiner decided to utilize his carriage rather than hiring one.
Mr Bennet felt it futile for any attempt of civility towards Fanny or Lydia. He knew they would beg and plead to remain in their lifestyle at Longbourn. Knowing it was time to stand his ground, Thomas Bennet remained in the bedchamber, seeing to his Lizzy’s care.
Fanny entered the carriage, complaining of how ill-treated she was, being cast from her home and family, and separated from her beloved Lydia. In her mind, Fanny felt she had done no wrong to her husband, and that she had treated Elizabeth kindly. After twenty years of enduring her foolishness, no one had any sympathy for her lot in life.
~~ ** ~~ Elizabeth’s fever continued for two more days. It would lessen slightly, before climbing high by the end of the day. The discharge from the wound was disgusting and smelly, causing Jane to have to leave her sister’s side when the bandages and poultices were changed. Finally, the wound began to improve. The pus became less and the color of the wound improved to a natural light pink, rather than the harsh, angry red.
A week passed by before the physician felt she was on the road to recovery. He suggested that she remain where she was for another week, before making the journey to Pemberley. Even then, he suggested she wear a sling, relieving her shoulder of having to support her arm, until the wound was completely healed. The physician stated that, in his opinion, it would allow a better chance for complete recovery if the muscles and nerves were not taxed for at least a month.
Darcy was well on his way to recovery, and the physician chuckled as his patient declared he was fit enough to travel as soon as Elizabeth was. There was no question or asking permission, Darcy stated the fact and that was how it was going to be. Fortunately, the Master of Pemberley was fit enough.
Finally, Darcy was allowed to visit Elizabeth, the day before they were to leave for Pemberley. Mr Bennet had assisted his daughter into the sitting room, and left Mrs Gardiner as chaperone, while he took Jane to do some shopping.
Elizabeth’s eyes were lowered as she spoke to her protector. “Mr Darcy, I cannot begin to thank you for your assistance. I am deeply grieved you were injured in your attempt to protect me.”
“I would gladly take such an injury again to protect you, Miss Elizabeth. My main concern was for your safe recovery to your family.” Darcy was surprised at Elizabeth’s subdued demeanor.
“My family is extremely grateful for your intervention. Papa says he cannot thank you enough for all you have done for us.”
Darcy looked at Elizabeth, then turned his puzzled expression towards Mrs Gardiner. The lady was kind enough to take pity on the young man. “I am looking forward to visiting Pemberley, Mr Darcy. I can remember touring the grounds when I was younger.”
“Ah, yes, you are from Lambton. I hope the estate meets with your memories. We have had to make some changes with the gardens, though I made certain my mother’s rose garden was not altered. We have a grove of apple trees which was added last year. Though it will be another year before we can expect a good yield, the trees have been thriving.”
“I remember your mother’s rose garden. I have never seen so many colors of roses in my life. Your gardener was proud of some of the new varieties he had a hand in creating.”
“Mr Howard has always been proud of the roses. Though he is head gardener, his true passion is the roses. He has even won a ribbon at the fair for the Lady Anne red rose which he and my mother nursed. It has the most beautiful deep red tips on the ruby red petals. They are my sister’s favorites.”
Elizabeth was surprised at the conversation, and the ease in which Darcy was conversing with her aunt. But she still could not bring herself to raise her eyes to look in his. Her life was so confusing, she had no notion of who she truly was. To learn the truth of her birth, and how Fanny Bennet was not her mother, the fact that her mother had died at Elizabeth’s birth, and that Elizabeth and Jane were not only not twins, but they were only half sisters, Elizabeth’s view of herself was at an all-time low. She could not even begin to comprehend what Darcy’s reasons were for following Elizabeth and coming to her rescue. To Elizabeth, it was best to believe Darcy’s kindness was out of a sense of gratitude for her assistance in Hyde Park.
Darcy continued to speak with Mrs Gardiner of people they both knew from Lambton and the neighborhood. Mrs Gardiner was pleased to see Darcy’s comfort and kindness, even his inquiry as to the health of the maid who had been with Elizabeth when abducted.
“Lucy traveled with my husband and his sister when they journeyed to Town. Lucy’s family is near London, and it was decided she deserved an extended holiday with them. We pray she will return to us, though, after all that has happened, I can understand if she desires to find employment elsewhere.”
“If she desires a change in employment, I would be pleased to see she finds a suitable position.” Darcy stated.
Elizabeth’s eyes dart upwards, finally meeting his. She is shocked at his willingness to be involved in such matters of someone else’s home. Quickly, though, her eyes turn down towards her lap. She was confused by his behavior, as it was not like the man she had met at Netherfield.
“Miss Elizabeth, I have not yet thanked you for your kindness to me when we met in London. I am grateful for your rescuing me, for you most likely saved my life.”
“There is no need to thank me, Mr Darcy. I am pleased to see you were not severely harmed.” “Well, if my cousin were here, at the moment, he would most likely tell you it was due to the robbers striking my head, which protected me. He has oft time
s declared that I have a hard head.” Darcy smiled. “My only wish was that I had been able to thank you before now. My sister is wishing to thank you as well.”
“You need not have put yourself out so much to thank me, Mr Darcy. You were injured, and could have been killed. I am certain your sister will not wish to meet me, let alone thank me, for being responsible for your being wounded.”
Darcy frowned. “Miss Elizabeth, I did not come here out of a sense of appreciation for your rescuing me. After speaking with my sister and cousin, I realized the feelings I have towards you deserved to be spoken and experienced. You are an amazing young lady, and I find that my love and admiration for you has only grown.”
Tears began to fill Elizabeth’s eyes. Looking at the man before her, Elizabeth was at a loss for
understanding his words. “Mr Darcy, you declared me not handsome enough to tempt you into dancing, yet now, now you state you love and admire me. This cannot be true.” Elizabeth stood quickly, leaving the room before Darcy could react.
Mrs Gardiner knew part of her niece’s behavior was due to the many changes in her life in the past fortnight. Though Elizabeth had always been strong and able to cope, there had been so many changes piled upon each other.
“Forgive me, Mr Darcy, but if you would not mind, perhaps I could clarify some problems.”
Darcy nodded his head. “My niece is experiencing insecurity at the moment, Mr Darcy. Not only has she been abducted, she learned the truth of her heritage and why the woman, whom she has thought of as her mother, has always hated her. She needs time to determine who she is and what all of this means to her. Everything she has known is now changed.”
“None of the changes make any difference to me, she is the same young lady who took hold of my heart.”
“I understand your words, but you need to realize how Elizabeth is struggling. All of her life, she has endured Fanny’s treatment of her, telling her time and again that she was not as good as Jane or Lydia. She has taken all the hateful comments from Fanny and kept positive. Elizabeth has always accepted that her mother did not like her, presuming that it was due to Elizabeth being her father’s favorite. She now knows that she was not Fanny’s child, that Jane is not her twin sister, and that she is the natural child of Thomas and the woman who should have been his wife. And then to know that her mother was royalty, though minor royalty, is difficult as well. She has relations she has never known, and who would love to meet her. And Elizabeth is angry over Fanny’s behavior which destroyed Thomas’ chance of marrying for love. But, Elizabeth told me, if Fanny had not married Thomas as they did, Jane would not be here. And Jane has been Elizabeth’s dearest friend and beloved sister. Lizzy could not imagine life without Jane.”
“I must admit that I was shocked when I learned the truth from Mr Bennet. My cousin was certain of the emblem, on the back of Miss Elizabeth’s cross, being a royal seal. I could not imagine how it could have been. But it does not change how I feel towards her. It never will. You have my promise, I will not cause her any harm. While everyone is visiting Pemberley, I only wish for Miss Elizabeth to come to know me better. I realize we have not had much time to court, and that is what I wish to do. But I will take my time, give her all the support she needs.”
“It might take quite some time. Are you willing to allow her all the time she needs to feel confident once again?”
Darcy nodded again. “So long as she will allow me to be there for her, should she need me, I can wait for her as long as she needs.”
~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~ Chapter 10 Every few moments, Georgiana Darcy walked over to the window which overlooked the road leading to the front of the main house of Pemberley. She had received a missive from her brother, stating they would be arriving by the afternoon, and it was nearly dark outside.
Having checked the details for the guest rooms and meals with the housekeeper, Mrs Reynolds, Georgiana practiced on the pianoforte, until she grew so nervous, she could no longer sit still. Then she paced about the room, and attempting to conjure her brother and his party in front of her.
Georgiana was nervous. She was excited to finally meet Elizabeth Bennet, the lady who had won her brother’s heart, yet she was nervous that she would lose her place in Darcy’s heart when he married. Georgiana had never really known her mother, and she was a child when their father died. Her beloved brother was more like a parent than he was a brother, as he was much older than she. What would she do if her brother were to change, and not wish to share his time with her? Her heart was pulled in different directions. But her greatest wish was for her brother to be happy.
Finally, she heard the sounds of carriages on the front road. Georgiana hurried to the window to confirm what she had heard, and then raced down the stairs and out the front door. By then, the carriage had come to a complete stop. Richard exited first, standing aside as Darcy made his way from the carriage. As Elizabeth stepped down, Richard and Darcy were on either side of her, assisting her. Mrs Gardiner stepped down, with assistance from Richard. Elizabeth waited for her father and sister to exit the second carriage and join the party. Taking her aunt’s arm, Elizabeth nervously walked towards the house.
As the carriages had entered the park, Darcy had the drivers stop at the top of one of the hills, allowing the Bennets and Mrs Gardiner one of the best views of the estate. Elizabeth gasped at the size of the estate and the beauty of it. It was as if the estate had materialized from one of her dreams. There were woods and a river, a small lake, and many wonderful gardens. Far from being ornate and showy, the main house appeared to be functional and well designed. The gardens blended in with the natural beauty of the land, making them appear to have developed naturally. To Elizabeth, she had died and gone to heaven. Her only problem would be in choosing which area to discover first.
Now, standing before the stairs leading into the grand house, Elizabeth was nervous. She had never visited inside such a grand house, let alone stay in one. How was she to behave in such wealth and beauty?
Georgiana came hurrying towards her brother and cousin. “Wills, you are well. I have prayed for all of you every day you have been away. And Richard, you are well?” She turned from embracing Darcy and found herself wrapped in Richard’s arms. In Georgiana’s opinion, there was no one who made her feel as safe and secure as Richard did when he embraced her. His arms held her to his chest, and a warmth flowed through her.
Darcy smiled at his sister’s sweet smile as Richard held her. It was clear, from the smile and her closed eyes, Georgiana was pleased to have them home. “Georgie, please allow me to introduce you to our guests.” He took her hand and led her to the others in the group. “Georgiana, this is Mr Thomas Bennet of Longbourn, Mrs Helen Gardiner of London, Miss Jane Bennet and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Mr Bennet, Mrs Gardiner, Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth, this is my beloved sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy.”
It was clear to everyone that the Darcy siblings were close. The smile Darcy wore when looking at his sister was genuine and even showed that the man had dimples.
Nervously, Georgiana went about her duties as the hostess for her brother. “Mr Bennet, ladies, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Pemberley. I have requested refreshments, or, would you prefer to retire to your rooms to refresh first?”
Mrs Gardiner stepped closer to Georgiana. “Miss Darcy, it is a pleasure to meet you. I believe some refreshments would be delightful, would you not agree, Mr Bennet?”
“Ah, yes, I know something to drink would be perfect at the moment.” Mr Bennet said, smiling at the girl. He wished to make her comfortable, for it was obvious she was shy.
Georgiana found it difficult to be as outgoing as she was being, as her natural shyness begged her to retreat behind her brother and Richard, allowing them to do all the talking. But she knew the men would be proud of her for making such an effort. She looked at Elizabeth Bennet, and was surprised to see a similar sense of shyness coming from her. From what Darcy had told his sister, she had gathered that Elizabeth was out
going and easily comfortable with others. Had something happened during her situation which led to the young lady before her to be uncomfortable?
Jane and Elizabeth entered the grand house, arm in arm, and both wearing identical expressions of awe. Yet, as grand as the house was, it was quality, not ornate. The furnishings and décor were tasteful and comfortable, welcoming the people into the rooms and to sit upon the chairs and sofa. The furnishings showed signs of wear, as if they were used frequently over some time, which spoke volumes. Obviously, the family enjoyed these rooms and used them frequently, preferring the comfort rather than showing off their wealth by having the latest style in décor and furnishings. Elizabeth was pleased to see she had judged Darcy wrong in this matter. During the trip to Pemberley, Elizabeth had imagined all sorts of expensive and uncomfortable furniture and hideous designs in the décor.
After taking some tea and biscuits in the drawing room, the group then retired to the rooms they were assigned, to refresh and relax until dinner. Hot water had been made ready for the guests, which was accepted by all, allowing them to wash before dressing for dinner.
The room Elizabeth was given was near the family wing. It was the largest bedroom Elizabeth had ever seen, and it was for her alone to use. Never in her life had Elizabeth had such luxury. The room was pale yellow, with flowers decorating the wall fabric. The bed was made of mahogany, the deep and rich color and texture was delightful. The bed clothes were pale yellow as well, plump down pillows and blanket were calling for her to sink into their depths.
Attached to the bedchamber was a dressing room, unlike anything Elizabeth had ever seen. It was divided into two sections, with an area to place her clothing on one side, a table with a peer glass at the end, and on the other half, a bathing chamber. There was a fireplace near the bathing tub, with hooks to hang the kettle to heat water. There would be no need for anyone to haul heated water from the kitchen, the water was heated in the very room in which it was to be used. It had always worried Elizabeth to have people carry steaming hot water up stairs, as, when she was a child, she witnessed a maid slip and fall, scalding herself terribly with the water. The maid was left with scars from the burns.
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