Netherfield Park Quarantined

by Schertz, Melanie

  “Might I be bold enough to ask you a question, Miss Elizabeth?”

  Looking at him with her eyebrow arched, Elizabeth nodded. “I am unable to determine your sister’s feelings towards my friend. She appears to enjoy his company, but I cannot decide if her heart has truly been touched by Mr Bingley. I was prepared to believe that she would follow your mother’s dictates and secure a marriage, whether she loved my friend or not. But it just dawned on me that you are close to your sister and would know her feelings. If she has truly attached her heart to him, I will do what I can to encourage my friend into declaring his intentions.”

  For a moment, Elizabeth’s anger boiled up inside her. Then she accepted Mr Darcy’s explanation as to why he believed as he did. Jane was demure and kept her feelings close to her, not allowing many people to become too close to her. Though she was a loving and caring person, Jane was also guarded in granting others the privilege of accessing her feelings. With their mother, it was not unfathomable for others to mistake Jane’s intentions and feelings.

  “Jane has a difficult time sharing her feelings openly, and I am one of the few in her life with which she is open with. As to her feelings towards your friend, she cares a great deal for him. Her heart is attached, as I believe Mr Bingley’s is.”

  Darcy nodded his head. “Then I will do what I can to encourage Bingley’s relationship with Miss Bennet. They are very much alike in personality.” Elizabeth laughed. “As kind and good natured as they are, if they were to marry, all of their staff will take advantage of them, for neither would think bad of anyone.”

  “So very true, Miss Elizabeth. As I said, they are very much alike in personality. I am pleased to know that my suspicions were for naught. I thank you for allowing me to learn the truth. If I had acted on the assumptions, I would have been most displeased with myself.”

  “Thank you for not causing my sister harm. Jane is dear to me and I would not wish her to be heartbroken.” Elizabeth said as she turned towards the sunrise. Why am I feeling nervous in front of this man? I do not like him, yet I wish to know more about him. Why would I wish to know more when I know what he thinks of me? Did he not make himself well understood when he declared me not handsome enough to tempt him to dance?

  Darcy could see that the young lady before him was struggling with something. “Miss Elizabeth, might I inquire as to how you are doing this morning? You seem uncomfortable. Have I done something to disturb you?”

  He is being so kind, and yet, most times he is so dark and harsh in his manners. Who is this man before me, for he most definitely cannot be the Mr Darcy I met at the assembly? “I was just thinking that the difficulty that you have in determining Jane’s feelings can also be said about you, Mr Darcy. You seem quite different from the man that I have witnessed at gatherings since your arrival in the neighborhood.”

  “Ah, yes, you have found me arrogant and proud, if I am not mistaken. A common perception, I can assure you. May I speak freely?”

  “We have been speaking openly, Mr Darcy, I see no reason to stop now.” Elizabeth teased. Again, Elizabeth was delighted with the sight of his dimples. “I must admit to you that I am not comfortable in settings that are new to me, especially in large groups of people. It is difficult for me to converse with others; I become tongue tied and sound like a fool. My sister and I are both extremely shy, and she is even worse than I. Only when I am comfortable in speaking with someone can I be open and intelligent.”

  “That is why you are able to speak with me so freely; you have become comfortable in my presence?” “I find you to be extremely intelligent, Miss Elizabeth. I feel an easiness that is rare with someone of such a short acquaintance. You are a strange young lady, for you do not hold to the ways of most in society. It is refreshing, to say the least, and I am pleased that you have allowed me to speak openly with you. I only pray that you will allow me to continue speaking with you so, for I have come to enjoy our banter.”

  “Well, I must admit to you that I am surprised. I believed you disliked me, especially after the assembly.”

  Darcy’s expression saddened. “Why would you think so after the assembly?” Elizabeth tried desperately to think of the proper wording. “Mr Darcy, I must be honest with you. I overheard your conversation with Mr Bingley. When he said that you must dance and suggested you ask me to be your partner.”

  Darcy turned his back and walked toward the edge. Standing there for several moments, when he turned back around, Elizabeth could see pain written in his expression.

  “If I could only turn back time and take back those words, Miss Elizabeth. I had no notion that you had heard me. Bingley was irritating me that night with his pestering, and when he made his suggestion, I did not even turn to look at who he suggested. My opinion of you has been quite different, to be honest, for some time now I have come to find you the most handsome woman in my acquaintance.”

  A gasp escaped Elizabeth as her eyes searched his for the truth. For several moments, she continued to hold him in her gaze, feeling as if she could see into his very soul. At that moment, Elizabeth Bennet knew the truth. Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy held a very tender regard for her. But this was all too new to her. Until just moments ago, she believed that this man was proud and looked at her only to find fault. She turned away from him, needing to collect her thoughts.

  “Please, Miss Elizabeth, do not leave. I wish to know you better, learn more of who you are.” “Mr Darcy, this is quite difficult for me to understand. I have thought that your constant watching me was to find fault in my appearance or behavior. It never has occurred to me that you might be wishing to know me better. And I must admit that the slight you made at the assembly has made my own prejudice rise against you. As you had harmed my pride with your words, I aimed to only think the worst of you.”

  “Forgive me, Eliza…Miss Elizabeth. If you could not see my growing fondness for you, I fear that I do not know how to react. My actions have never been negative, and I watched you closely out of admiration and wishing to know you better. I have never felt such for a lady before, as I kept myself well-guarded against the matchmaking mammas and their simpering daughters who only see me for my bank book and my property. Never has anyone caused me a moments flittering in my heart. Please allow me to know you better, and at the same time, you can come to know me better.”

  Turning back toward him, Elizabeth was reluctant to look into his eyes. Would she wish to know this man? Was he truly different than she had come to believe, was he truly a kind and caring man rather than a man who showed disdained for all who were around him? Suddenly, she realized that he had taken hold of her hand and was gently caressing the back of it with his thumb. She raised her eyes, slowly, until she looked into his eyes. Yes, she felt as if she could see into the depths of his soul and what she saw told her that he was a kind and caring man, and that he cared for her. At that moment, Elizabeth knew that she wished to know this man better.

  “I agree to your request, Mr Darcy, though I have one condition. I do not want anyone else to know of our agreement at the moment. If my mother were to learn of our being here at this moment, she would be crowing through the neighborhood that you and I were to be wed. I have made no such commitment and have only consented to spend time getting to know you better.”

  Smiling, those tremendous dimples showing clearly, Darcy nodded his head. “That is something I can accept, Miss Elizabeth. Though I do ask one thing of you, when we are alone, would you please call me by the name my sister does? She calls me William.”

  “I believe I can be persuaded to do such. Now, shall we plan on meeting here each morning, weather permitting? It would allow us the most privacy to be able to speak openly.”

  “Your suggestion is gladly accepted, Miss Elizabeth. Shall we return to the world below, as we have been here for some time now? Will your family wonder where you are when they gather to break their fast?”

  “You are correct, Mr Dar…William. It is time for me to return. Will you be accompan
ying your friend when he calls on us today?” Elizabeth asked, a part of her praying that he would.

  “If you would not object, I would find it enjoyable. I believe you were speaking of harvesting flowers and herbs. It would be no bother to assist you in this endeavor.”

  “Then I will see you later.” Elizabeth began to walk down the path, but stopped abruptly and turned back to the gentleman who was causing her a great deal of confusion. “I am pleased that you decided to allow me to know you better, Mr…William. I look forward to learning more.”

  Darcy stood still, watching as Elizabeth continued to walk down the path toward her home. How dearly he wished to run after her, pull her into his arms and kiss her soundly. One day, Elizabeth, I pray that one day you will allow me to win your heart.

  ~~ ** ~~ The gentlemen paid their call to Longbourn, with a well enjoyed visit to the gardens, where the men aided the sisters in gathering their desired items. It was one of the most pleasant days that Darcy could ever remember.

  ~~ ** ~~ The next day saw a note arriving for Jane Bennet. The note was from Miss Bingley, inviting Jane to dine with Louisa Hurst and herself at Netherfield that evening, as the men would be dining in Meryton with the officers who were stationed there.

  Mrs Bennet insisted that Jane could not take the carriage, and must therefore ride their old horse, Nell. Nell was slow, as slow as molasses in wintertime. Elizabeth was surprised with her mother’s dictate. “Mamma, it appears to be clouding up for a storm. Jane would be caught in the rain and take ill.”

  “That is my point, Lizzy. With the men away from the house while Jane is to dine, she must do something to prolong her stay so that she can see Mr Bingley. If the weather is too bad, she will not be able to ride home on Nell and will have to remain at Netherfield overnight. If she were to take ill with the sniffles from being caught in the rain, more’s the better.”

  “MAMMA!” Elizabeth said as her voice became harsher. “That is highly inappropriate. And what if Jane were to become quite ill?” “Oh, phooey, it would only be the sniffles from being wet. No one ever died from mere sniffles.” Mrs Bennet said as she left the room. Elizabeth stood, staring at the back of her mother leaving. She knew of her mother’s desperation to marry off all of her daughters, but this was far too much for Elizabeth to understand.

  As Elizabeth prepared to go to the rose garden to gather some fresh blooms, Mr Hale arrived. “What brings you to Longbourn, Sir?” “I came to inquire as to everyone’s health at Longbourn. Mrs Long’s niece is worse and now two of their maids have come down sick. One of the maids has a sister who works at Netherfield, and the sister has taken ill just this morning. I have instructed that they be kept from others until we can determine what the illness is and determine the best course of treatment.”

  “I have not heard from any of our staff or tenants of anyone being ill. My family is well, no signs of any illness. How is Mrs Long handling all of this? I know that she cannot stand to be around anyone who is sick or injured.”

  “She keeps to her rooms as much as possible. Her housekeeper is tending to the young lady and seeing to her care. Well, I must be off. If you hear of anyone becoming ill, send word to me immediately and make sure they are isolated as much as possible.”

  “I will, Mr Hale. And thank you for coming to tell us.”

  ~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~

  Chapter 3 That evening, Mr Bennet received a message stating that Jane had been caught in the rain and taken a chill. She was put to bed at Netherfield and would remain there until she recovered from her illness. Elizabeth was put out with her mother’s behavior. She hated the thought of her beloved sister being made to suffer in such a manner when it was not necessary to capture Mr Bingley’s heart.

  As was the agreement, Elizabeth made her way to Oakham Mount in the morning, and she smiled when she realized that seeing Darcy there was surprising to her. She had expected his declaration to be a figment of her imagination. When he heard her stepping near, Darcy turned, giving her his most dazzling smile. Elizabeth laughed to herself as she thought about Mr Darcy’s dimples and how they made her feel weak in the knees.

  “Good morning, Mr…forgive me, this will take some getting used to. Good morning, William, I trust you slept well.”

  “I did indeed. In fact I slept better than I have in a long time. And yourself? Did you find a peaceful night of rest?”

  “Not peaceful, as I was concerned for my sister’s well-being all night long. Have you any word on how she is this morning?”

  “I heard Bingley saying that he had sent for Mr Hale, but that he had not heard when the man would be coming to Netherfield.” “Mr Hale has several people who have taken quite ill recently. I am afraid it may be some time before he is able to come to Netherfield. It would be best if I were to come and tend to my sister. Do you think that Mr Bingley would object?”

  Chuckling, Darcy shook his head. “ Mr Bingley will not object at all. Miss Bingley will complain to the end of the world. So, as Mr Bingley’s friend, I invite you to visit your sister and stay with her until she recovers. Miss Bingley will not like it, but she would never refuse me, as her brother’s closest friend. Shall we expect you shortly after breaking your fast?”

  “That would be a most perfect time. I do appreciate your generosity, William. Jane is dear to me and I do fret when she takes ill.” He could see the worry in Elizabeth’s expression. “Have no fear, Elizabeth, if need be, I will send to Town for my family’s physician. Your sister will receive the best care possible.”

  “I am grateful to you, William. I should go, so that I may make ready to come to Netherfield.”

  “I will be awaiting your arrival. Stay safe, Elizabeth.”

  ~~ ** ~~ Elizabeth arrived at Netherfield after walking the entire way from her home. After the rain, the field between the two estates had become muddy, leaving her with six inches of mud upon her petticoats and her boots covered. Darcy could tell that something was wrong, she was obviously distressed over something. He would try to find time to speak with her later, to learn what had happened since he had last seen her.

  Once Bingley directed his housekeeper to take Elizabeth to her sister, Mrs Hurst and Miss Bingley cackled like wet hens. “Did you see her? Covered in mud, she must have walked here from Longbourn. What is the meaning of her traipsing around the countryside alone?”

  “And her hair, it was so wild. I surely would not wish to be seen in such a fashion.”

  Bingley spoke up in defense. “I find nothing more than her concern for her sister and wishing to be of comfort to her.” “Oh, Charles, you are so naïve, my dear brother.” Caroline Bingley stated. “I am sure that Mr Darcy would agree with us, that Miss Eliza has made a spectacle of herself. You would not approve of dear Miss Darcy being seen in such a manner.”

  “True, I would not wish Georgiana to be seen so, but then again, she has no sister to journey to tend. Miss Elizabeth’s devotion to her sister speaks of the great love and devotion she has for Miss Bennet and it is quite impressive.”

  Darcy then stood up and made his way from the room, hoping to catch Elizabeth before she was able to close herself in Jane’s room. Having just knocked on the door and been called to enter the room, Elizabeth had placed her hand on the doorknob and began to turn the handle. Just then, she heard a man’s voice call out her name. She turned to see Darcy coming up the stairs towards her. He looked around to make certain that they were alone before he spoke.

  “Elizabeth, did you walk here from your home?” Seeing her nod, Darcy shook his head. “You are more than welcome to have asked for a carriage to be sent for you, I would have sent mine straight away.”

  Elizabeth chuckled. “And how would that have appeared, William, if I sent you a private, highly improper, message asking you to send the carriage to me so that I might come to Netherfield to tend to my sister? Miss Bingley and her sister would both be having their tongues wagging at such news, and they would do anything in their power to make certain I was ruined
. It was only three miles; I have walked such a distance many times in my life.”

  Darcy thought for a moment before speaking. “You are correct, Elizabeth, but I pray you know that I would send a carriage anytime you were in need.”

  “Thank you, William. Now, I wish to check on my sister.” Darcy placed a kiss on the back of her hand and prepared to leave, stopping suddenly. “If you need anything for your sister’s care, send a maid to me immediately. When Mr Hale arrives, I will send him directly to you.”

  Smiling as she opened the door, Elizabeth entered the room and went to her sister’s bed. Jane’s eyes fluttered open, and a look of joy came over her feverish face. “Lizzy, I am so pleased you came to see me. I have been longing to have you here. Miss Bingley has made it quite clear that she is not fond of the sick room.”

  “You knew I would come, I could not stay away. Of course, Mamma was not pleased. She kept ranting about you not needing me and that I would only be in the way. Papa sends his love. He did not sleep well last night and looked quite fatigued.” Elizabeth straightened out the covers and stepped over to the nearby table to pour a glass of water for her sister. “Now, tell me how you are doing. Are you in pain? Do you need anything?”

  “I believe your headache remedy would be perfect at the moment. I have a headache that has been building since last night and will become unbearable soon without your magic.”

  Elizabeth reached into the pocket of her gown. “I thought that it would be wise to bring a few items with me.” Smiling, she rang for the maid. When the girl entered, Elizabeth requested a spoon, tea, and some bread. She also asked the girl to ask Mr Darcy to come to the room.