~~ ** ~~ An express arrived one day, as the end of a fortnight neared since the arrival at Pemberley. The express was addressed to Elizabeth. With shaking hands, Elizabeth opened the message.
The letter was from Margaret Walters, informing Elizabeth of her plans to arrive at Pemberley within two days of the letter. Margaret was bringing her two youngest children, a son and a daughter, who were near Elizabeth’s age. Margaret and her husband, Robert, had four other children who were grown and had families of their own. They wished to plan a holiday for all of their children to meet their cousin.
The following day, a letter arrived from
Elizabeth’s uncle, Albert, welcoming her to the family. He would not be able to journey to England for some time, but he looked forward to the day when he could meet her in person.
When the letter with the royal seal of Brunswick arrived, Elizabeth’s hands were shaking. Though Charles II had died several years previously, Princess Augusta sent a letter declaring her joy in knowing Constance’s daughter had finally learned of her heritage. Princess Augusta also stated that she had informed her children of the news, including Princess Caroline. Princess Caroline’s daughter, Charlotte, was living in England, though Caroline rarely had any time with her daughter.
~~ ** ~~ The staff at Pemberley had no difficulty preparing more rooms for the new arrivals which were expected. Darcy had informed Mrs Reynolds of the possibility shortly after he had returned home. Guest rooms were prepared and kept readied.
One set of guests Darcy had not expected was the Bingley family. Charles Bingley and his sisters, Caroline and Louisa, and Louisa’s husband, Gilbert Hurst, all arrived the same day as the express from Margaret. This was not only unexpected, but undesired. Caroline was determined to become the next Mrs Darcy, and Mistress of Pemberley. As soon as she arrived, she began ordering the staff about as if she was already their mistress. Georgiana was far too timid to stand up to Caroline, which only confirmed in Miss Bingley’s mind that she was doing what was expected of her.
What angered Miss Bingley the most was learning of the Bennet family and their relations, who were in trade, staying at Pemberley. Caroline Bingley had a suspicion that Mr Darcy had feelings for Elizabeth Bennet, and she would not allow the country nobody to usurp her as Mistress of Pemberley.
Charles Bingley was shocked, yet pleased, to be reunited with his dearest angel, Jane Bennet. He had been extremely disappointed when he left
Netherfield, as he wished to begin courting Jane. But his sister had convinced him that Jane did not return his admiration, and that it would be disastrous to not only Bingley, but his entire family. Caroline insisted that their parents had worked hard to improve their family, and they would be disgraced by having Jane Bennet as part of the family. Reluctantly, Bingley had allowed his sisters to guide him, as they quickly removed him to Scarborough, visiting their aunt, Velda Bingley. They remained there through the holidays and now, were heading to Town for his sisters to do their shopping before the season began.
Finding Jane Bennet at Pemberley was a blessing to Bingley. He was determined to make the most of the visit at his friend’s estate, and make his feelings for Jane Bennet known to the young lady. He was certain she shared his affection. Nothing his sisters said had truly convinced him of Jane being a fortune hunter. And no one had ever touched his heart as Jane had.
The only obstacle Bingley could see was Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. Having been together over the past fortnight, and no prior arrangement with any other man and Jane Bennet, Richard allowed himself to enjoy spending time with Elizabeth’s sister. He was thrilled to find someone who was naturally sweet natured and good, as Jane was. And she enjoyed spending time with him.
Jane was also reserved with her feelings towards Bingley. Though she liked him, she was distrustful of someone who would allow his sisters to convince him against his own feelings. If he was so easily swayed to go against his own beliefs, Jane was unsure if she wished to enter into marriage with him. For the first time in her life, Jane was determined to do what was best for her.
~~ ** ~~
As everyone gathered to dine the evening of the Bingley family’s arrival, Miss Bingley latched on to Darcy’s arm with a grip like an octopus holding its prey. Without checking with Georgiana as to the seating arrangements, Miss Bingley claimed the place to the right of Darcy. Elizabeth chuckled to herself as she took the seat which Georgiana had reserved for her, which was on Darcy’s left side, with Georgiana on the left side of Elizabeth.
In the time Elizabeth had been at Pemberley, Georgiana had taken to the young lady who held her brother’s heart. Elizabeth was kind to Georgiana, honestly caring for the girl rather than using the girl to become close to Darcy. And Georgiana appreciated the ease which she felt when in Elizabeth’s presence. Having Elizabeth at her side, Georgiana was certain she could withstand anything Caroline Bingley had to dish out.
“Miss Elizabeth, I am surprised to find you staying here at Pemberley. Mr Darcy had not informed us of your family being invited here.” Caroline stated.
“The invitation was issued recently, while we were in Liverpool at the same time. Mr Darcy made the invitation personally to my family.” Elizabeth stated calmly.
“I am grateful to not require an invitation to visit Pemberley, as our family has such a close connection with the Darcy family. Mr Darcy has always welcomed our family to his home, have you not, Mr Darcy?” Caroline reached her hand over, touching Darcy’s arm.
“Your brother and I have been close since our days at the university.” Darcy replied sharply. “Charles is always welcome to visit my homes.”
Elizabeth picked up her napkin and dabbed at her lips to keep anyone from seeing the mirth she was feeling at Darcy’s response. It was clear to everyone, except Miss Bingley, that Darcy was not pleased, nor did he offer an open ended invitation to Bingley’s sisters.
“And, as everyone knows, Charles always has me along, for he knows how important it is to me. I cannot tolerate being away from the Darcys for very long, and it has been nearly two months since we were together. Scarborough has nothing to hold my interest, not when the likes of Pemberley and the Darcys are close at hand. Dear Georgiana is so precious to me, and I long to have a sister such as she. Louisa and I were speaking just the other day of how fine it would be to have such a sister as Georgiana. Charles is quite fond of her as well.”
Elizabeth glanced down the table to where her sister sat, in private discourse with Bingley. Oh, yes, Miss Bingley, I can see how enraptured he is with Georgiana Darcy. It is clear that he hold no interest in my sister. The thought brought a slight chuckle.
“Is something funny, Miss Elizabeth?” Caroline asked. “No, no, I was just thinking of something unrelated. As you were saying, you and Miss Darcy are quite close?”
“Lizzy, I told you to call me Georgiana.” The girl said, her voice strong and clear. She was wishing to make a point to Caroline Bingley.
“Forgive me, Georgiana. You may reprimand me later, when we play our duet.” Caroline did not appreciate the direction the conversation was taking. She had never been given consent to refer to Miss Darcy as Georgiana. How was it that this nobody was now treated so informally? She glared at Elizabeth, forcing a fake smile on her lips.
“Yes, well, I would think it to be inappropriate to refer to Miss Darcy so informally, when she is of a far superior position to the rest of us. I cannot imagine referring to the granddaughter of an earl by her given name.”
Suddenly, Darcy began to laugh aloud. This quickly turned into a cough, causing Darcy to choke. A servant stepped closer to the table, though Darcy held up a hand, motioning the man to hold still. After several moments, Darcy was able to speak. “Please forgive me, everyone. I believe I swallowed something wrong.”
It had been decided to not speak of Elizabeth’s birthright to the Bingleys. Darcy had hoped to send them on their way before Elizabeth’s aunt arrived, though he was certain that Bingley would not leave witho
ut being asked to do so. As good a friend as Bingley was, Darcy was not prepared to hurt his friend’s feelings. And seeing Jane’s happiness in speaking with Bingley, Darcy was not prepared to separate the two. He knew that Bingley was concerned of Richard’s behavior, and Bingley would take being asked to leave as Darcy preferring his cousin for Miss Bennet.
Dinner finished and the men separated from the ladies. Miss Bingley stepped over to Georgiana, taking hold of the girl’s arm as they walked into the music room. “I cannot wait to hear you play this evening, Miss Darcy. You are far superior to anyone I have ever heard play. Your years of training with the very best masters shines through when you play.”
“Lizzy and I plan to perform the duet we have been practicing for my brother. He recently purchased the sheets for me and Lizzy has been practicing with me.”
“Well, I know you will be the far superior in the performance, as I have heard Miss Elizabeth play before.”
Georgiana gasped at the rudeness of the lady. “My brother has described Lizzy’s performances as some of the most delightful he has ever heard. She plays and sings with such feeling.”
Leaning closer to Georgiana, Caroline whispered to her. “I am sure your brother was being polite, as it is clear he did not wish to be rude to guests in his home. But you are far superior, in every way. It must be difficult having such people staying in your home. Your brother was far kinder than necessary, after such a brief acquaintance when we stayed at Netherfield. He should not be forced to endure such terrible manners as the Bennets have, not to mention having the wife of a tradesman in your home. Obviously, he had no notion they would force their relations upon you.”
“Miss Bingley, the Bennets and Mrs Gardiner are our guests. My brother insisted they come here, and they are welcome to remain here as long as they wish. They have been very pleasant company and I have enjoyed coming to know them, especially Lizzy.”
Caroline patted Georgiana’s arm lightly. “You are young, and have had little contact with the world, so it is understandable that you do not see the sort of people the Bennets are. And the tradesman’s wife, your parents would be appalled to have such a person as a guest. It is a good thing that we arrived when we did, so I can guide you on how people of our station would deal with their station. Just follow my guidance and all will be well.”
Georgiana knew better than to argue, but she was certain she would never follow the example of someone such as Caroline Bingley and Louisa Hurst.
The ladies made their way into the music room and Georgiana was finally able to break free of Caroline’s grip. The girl made her way to the pianoforte, pretending to sort through the sheet music for the piece she wished to play.
As Elizabeth made her way towards the
pianoforte, Caroline spoke. “Miss Elizabeth, I know you had planned to perform a duet with our dear Miss Darcy, but it has been such a long time since Louisa and I have been given such a treat as hearing the dear girl play. Why, Louisa even mentioned her desire to hear Miss Darcy as we neared the estate.”
Elizabeth turned her eyes towards Georgiana as she responded. “As Georgiana is acting as hostess for her brother, I believe it is up to her to decide. I would never be so rude as to demand my hostess act upon my wishes.”
Georgiana’s eyes grew wide with humor as she listened to her friend put Caroline Bingley in her place. Georgiana had been shocked at Caroline’s rudeness at speaking to a guest of Darcy’s in such a manner. “I wish to play the duet, as my brother has been waiting all week to hear the entire piece. He has heard bits of the song, and has been eager to hear it in its entirety. As I informed my brother earlier of our intent to play it for him, I believe he would be considerably disappointed if we did not.”
Letting out a huff in frustration, Caroline took a seat beside her sister on the sofa. “Of course, I would not wish to delay any enjoyment Mr Darcy would receive from the performance. I do pray you will indulge me and Louisa while we are here, Miss Darcy. You know how fond we are of you.”
“Of course, Miss Bingley.” Georgiana said softly, not believing the words coming from Caroline’s mouth.
Georgiana and Elizabeth sat down together on the bench before the pianoforte, practicing a little before the men returned. Mrs Gardiner and Jane took seats near the pianoforte, chatting about the day and the letter Mr Gardiner wrote, which had arrived that day.
“The children are excited to make the journey here, and they are looking forward to learning to ride horses. When Edward told them of Mr Darcy’s offer to teach them, Rebecca was thrilled. Your uncle has even had riding costumes made for the children.”
“Andrew must be excited as well. I remember his saying how he has always wished to be in the army, and he would need to learn to ride if he were to become an officer.” Jane said with a smile.
“Wait until he meets Colonel Fitzwilliam. I am afraid that the good colonel will never have a moment’s peace once Andrew meets him.” Mrs Gardiner chuckled.
Caroline could not believe what she was hearing. “Mr Darcy has invited your husband, a tradesman, and your children to join you here? I would have thought you would prefer to return to Town. You live in Cheapside, do you not?”
Mrs Gardiner was no fool, nor would she be humiliated by the likes of Caroline Bingley. “Oh, we had planned to journey to Lambton anyway, and, when Mr Darcy learned of our plans, he insisted we stay here. He is looking forward to meeting our children, and he plans on taking my husband fishing. We do live in Cheapside, as it is near my husband’s warehouses. If I remember correctly, your father was in trade. Was he not the owner of cotton mills?”
The Bingley sisters nearly choked on Mrs Gardiner’s words. Caroline and Louisa had gone to great lengths to forget the taint of trade which was so close to their lives. Their uncle still ran the mills, and they still received profits from the mills.
“Forgive me, Mrs … Gardiner, is it? Our family is one of wealth, and our brother is planning to purchase an estate. We will be part of the landed gentry, and are already welcomed in society, as you will never be.” Louisa declared. “Not to mention, my husband is heir to his family’s estate. So, you can see, there is a vast difference between our families.”
Caroline held her head high, her nose pointed upwards, with an expression of someone smelling a disgusting odor.
Mrs Gardiner laughed to herself. “And Mr Bennet is a landed gentleman, who comes from over six generations of landed gentlemen. According to society, my nieces are gentlewomen, which puts them at a higher standing than the daughters of a tradesman, no matter how wealthy they are.”
Elizabeth wrapped an arm about Georgiana’s shoulders, in an attempt to comfort the girl who was their hostess. “Aunt Helen, perhaps it would be best to find a more appropriate subject. I would not wish to dishonor our hostess.”
“Of course. Miss Darcy, please forgive my rude behavior. I meant no disrespect to you or your brother.” Mrs Gardiner said as she crossed the room to Georgiana, taking hold of her hand and giving it a squeeze.
“It is not you, Mrs Gardiner, who should be requesting forgiveness of my sister.” Darcy stated as he entered the room. “I overheard the conversation, and I believe Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst have been out of place in how they spoke to guests in my home.”
Hurst had been behind Darcy as they entered the room, and he was quite embarrassed by his wife and sister in law, having heard their words. “Louisa, Caroline, I believe we must turn in early. All the travel has made us very fatigued and unable to be in civilized company.”
“I believe I will wait to speak with Charles.” Caroline declared defiantly. “Charles is busy at the moment, and I insist you come with me immediately.” Hurst’s voice brooked no disobedience from Caroline.
“Where is Charles?” Louisa asked, concerned with the fact that Mr Bennet was also missing from the men.
“Never you mind, Louisa. Come with me, now.” Realizing that the normally reserved and quiet Hurst was deeply angered, Louisa stood and enco
uraged her sister to join her, pulling on Caroline’s arm. Finally, reluctantly, Caroline stood and followed her sister from the room.
~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~
Chapter 12 “Mr Bennet, I was wondering if Miss Jane has made an understanding, with any gentleman.” Bingley inquired.
“At the moment, she has not. Might I inquire as to why you ask? After you left Netherfield last autumn, with no word or return, I would have thought you had given up any interest with anyone in my family.”
“I realize how it must have appeared to you and your family, Mr Bennet, and I must apologize for my behavior. My sisters and I journeyed to spend time with our relations in Scarborough, and I had hoped to return to Netherfield in the near future.”
“And why could you not have written to your … friends in the neighborhood to inform us of your intention? Do you believe my daughter to be sitting around, waiting for your return, hoping you would keep your word? To be honest with you, my Jane was devastated when you left, especially after the letter she received from your sister declaring your intention of declaring yourself to Miss Darcy.”
Bingley grew red with anger. “My sister did WHAT? Declare myself to Miss Darcy? Miss Georgiana Darcy is like a young sister to me. I cannot imagine marrying someone who is a child in the first place. Which of my sisters wrote this letter?”
“I believe it was Miss Bingley. Jane informed Elizabeth the entirety of the letter, and Elizabeth informed me of the crux of the information. But why are you now wishing to know more of my Jane? What has changed for you to make you wish to speak to me of my daughter?”
“Seeing her, makes me realize how dearly my heart wishes to court Miss Jane. It would be my greatest joy to have her become my wife.” Bingley stated sadly. “But now, after what you have told me, I realize that your daughter must truly despise me. She must have believed my sister’s words.”
“It is not for me to speak for Jane. If she desires a courtship, I will agree with allowing it. But if she decides she does not wish to allow you to court her, I will ask you to refrain from bringing any further distress to my daughter. As you are most likely aware, you are not the only young man who finds Jane to be perfect.” Mr Bennet watched Bingley closely.
A Royal Bennet Page 12
