One Autumn with Darcy

by Rose Fairbanks

When Wickham saw the look of jealousy in Darcy’s eyes repeatedly through the first few sets, he knew his plot would succeed. Wickham knew that expression on Darcy’s face well. It was often there after Darcy would find Wickham enjoying the attentions of old Mr. Darcy.

  All Wickham needed was an introduction to Darcy’s lady. He fervently hoped this was the ‘Lizzy’ he heard the Bennet girls speak of earlier. The youngest Bennet sister would perform all her parts admirably, he had no doubt at all.

  *****

  Caroline Bingley fumed. Darcy had not pre-arranged a set with her and then she learned Eliza Bennet had made a move on her Mr. Darcy. His visit to this God forsaken place was supposed to prove she was perfect for the role of mistress of Pemberley. Compared to these country chits, Caroline would show her superior fashion, taste, beauty and hostessing skills.

  The evening started out poorly enough, by her estimation, but then she noticed Darcy was actually mingling with the tasteless and loud nobodies when he would not deign to speak at the most elegant balls in Town. She could not account for the change in his demeanour.

  When she noticed his eyes darting to seek out Eliza Bennet, nearly nonstop, her anger grew. She hoped he was just watching for amusement, after all, he did not look particularly pleased. She would rescue him from this inane company.

  Just before calling out to him she saw her brother approach, “Come, Darcy, I must see you dancing.”

  “I certainly shall not. You know how I detest it unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner. Am I not doing well enough by speaking with the gentlemen?”

  “I dare say, I have never seen you so approachable, but you had much better dance. I have never seen so many pretty girls in my life. Several of them uncommonly pretty. I can introduce you to whichever you like.”

  “As it happens, I have already made an arrangement with the only woman in the room I care to join.”

  “You only arrived yesterday! And I have not seen you speak to a lady this evening. The only ones you have met at all are the Bennet sisters. Come man, which is it?”

  “Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

  “Miss Elizabeth! I am all astonishment. That must have been some carriage ride indeed to feel ‘particularly acquainted.’“ Bingley could not help but tease.

  Darcy would not be baited, however, and resolutely told Bingley to return to his partner. “Aside from dancing with Miss Elizabeth and fulfilling my duty with your sisters, I am quite content to converse with the gentlemen.”

  Caroline’s control over her rage evaporated. She seized her opportunity when she saw Elizabeth head towards the punch table.

  *****

  When Darcy entered the Assembly hall he had little hopes of enjoying anything but his dance with Elizabeth. He was determined, however, to please her by showing he respected her opinions and chastisement, no matter how uncomfortable he felt.

  At first he even entertained the notion of standing up with another lady or two, breaking his long held standard of not dancing with a stranger. When he noticed the looks of admiration she received from her dance partners, Darcy found he could not dance with another.

  By the third set he had even resolved to imitate Bingley, who had plans to dance twice with Jane, and ask Elizabeth for her last remaining set. He began to move in her direction when he was accosted by Sir William Lucas.

  “Do you not find dancing a very enjoyable exercise, sir?”

  The old Darcy would have coldly tried to deter this man from his meaningless small talk, but Darcy sacrificed his comfort to be civil. ”Truthfully, I much prefer conversation. I dislike being on display, but find others quite enjoy it.”

  “It is the mark of every great society, I am sure.”

  Darcy bit back a sarcastic remark. “You must be correct, sir.”

  “You must often attend the balls at St. James Place.”

  In actuality Darcy only attended when forced by familial obligation. “I go but rarely, sir.”

  Sir William, for all of his superciliousness realized Darcy would not prove conversant on the subject. ”You have a house in Town?”

  Darcy allowed it to be so and Sir William continued for some time on his determining Town unsuitable for Lady Lucas’s health. He then raised the topic of his daughter, Charlotte, and her recent marriage to a Mr. Collins. The very one Darcy overheard Elizabeth speak of in the park and who had recently received a living from Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

  Sir William asked if Darcy knew of the great lady. Darcy realized he should deny any acquaintance with the lady in an interest to reach Elizabeth before the next set began. Although disguise of every sort was his abhorrence, he was just determining to do so when he saw an officer approach Elizabeth and they made for the dance floor.

  Realizing that he lost the dance and believing that she was too sensible to be attracted to an officer, undoubtedly of paltry means, he turned his attention back to Sir William, without ever seeing the officer’s face.

  *****

  When Sir William was, at long last, called off on some matter, Darcy was reminded of his duty to Bingley’s sisters. During his set with Mrs. Hurst he noticed that he could not espy Elizabeth. Growing concerned he beseeched Bingley to enquire intelligence from Miss Bennet. Darcy was excessively disappointed when he learned Elizabeth felt ill and had already left. Dark thoughts flooded his mind.

  Did she leave because she did not want to dance with me? If she could not welcome the attentions of the gentlemen she has known all of her life, who all seem affable, amiable and intelligent, why should she enjoy mine?

  His mind raced over their recent encounters for some indication she had felt truly affronted or indifferent towards him. Just then, Miss Bingley approached and Darcy felt he had no alternative but to ask her for the next set.

  Once the dancing began, the lady bravely began. “I was surprised to hear of your acquaintance with Miss Eliza Bennet. I wonder you did not say a thing last night. You must have been very weary from your journey in such tedious company.”

  “On the contrary, we enjoyed lively conversation and debate.”

  “Debate? What could the impertinent girl have been thinking? To dare think her opinion equal to your own!”

  “I dare say her opinion is, and even better informed in some cases.”

  “I wonder how you tolerate her, or allow dear Georgiana near her and those sisters. The Bennet girls are nothing more than mercenary flirts. Just see how the eldest has thrown herself at Charles this evening.”

  “Miss Bingley,” Darcy replied coldly, “you know as well as I, a lady does not choose her partner.” He hoped she would understand he found her behaviour lacking but she did not seem to notice so he continued.

  “If Miss Bennet is frequently seen in Bingley’s company it is from his desire. I see nothing in her countenance which could be seen as either mercenary or flirtatious.”

  He paused to allow the next words prominence, “And I assure you, I am well acquainted with both.”

  Miss Bingley was not to be deterred. “So you believe her indifferent?”

  “I believe she is acting as a lady should, though my opinion is of no matter.”

  “How can you say that? She will be the ruin of Charles. Her family has a total want of propriety, no fortune and no connections. I am convinced Miss Eliza has designs on you. I had to warn her away just earlier this evening.”

  “What did you say?” Darcy’s jaw was clenched tightly.

  “I simply reminded her of your need for a wife of good breeding, poise, wealth and connections.”

  “I have no need for you to defend my business. I shall know how to act.” Caroline Bingley left the dance feeling confident Darcy had been reminded of Elizabeth’s place and was safe for her clutches alone.

  Rather than give offence due to his foul mood, Darcy called for his carriage and arranged for it to return to convey the remainder of the Netherfield Party home later. He quickly realized that Elizabeth must feel as though he found her wanting and might ev
en feel her affections trifled with.

  I will count myself fortunate if she will want to speak with me again after being so abused by my acquaintances.

  Despite his misgivings, before falling into a fitful sleep he had determined to walk out early in the morning with every hope of encountering Elizabeth alone.

  *****

  At Longbourn Elizabeth’s headache did not lessen. Before she finally managed to fall asleep Elizabeth felt only disappointment. Mr. Darcy had been too good to be true. Never before had she met a man with the intelligence and character she could truly esteem. Never before had she felt so accepted and respected.

  She was only too sensible to his position in life and while she thought she took care to not allow herself fanciful thoughts, she realized her heart had betrayed her.

  Early the next morning Elizabeth awoke before sunrise, but with no headache. She determined the matter required another perusal when she was not quite so affected. She left the house to climb Oakham Mount just as the first rays of sun emerged. When she reached the peak, she allowed herself time to meditate on her concerns with her eyes closed and feeling the warmth of the sun.

  First, she considered Mr. Wickham’s testimony. She must allow that she did not truly know Mr. Darcy very well; theirs had been a very brief acquaintance. She next conceded she did not know Wickham at all. She recalled the man mentioned not meeting with Mr. Darcy for many years and yet seemed too ready to slander him. Perhaps Darcy had changed and should be allowed to prove himself before being charged for old ways.

  She shook her head at the faulty thought, it sounded too much like Jane. She did believe people could alter their behaviour, but only with sufficient motivation. If Mr. Darcy had once been a rake, he most likely would continue to be. He had either always been good or never good.

  She thought again on the length of time Wickham mentioned. If Mr. Darcy had been engaged all those years ago then why was he still unmarried? Perhaps he still held hope to somehow dissolve the betrothal and marry the other lady? But Wickham implied Darcy felt no lasting affection for the woman in question and instead believed Darcy dangerous to any lady. Then why should he not be married? Why should he single Elizabeth out?

  Additionally, the attention was given in full view of his younger sister and her family. She began to surmise Wickham was spinning tales, but could not quite piece together why.

  Elizabeth then turned her mind to Miss Bingley’s words. It took less time to puzzle out her words only reflected her feelings of Elizabeth as a rival. Most irksome was that Caroline had somehow known all of Elizabeth’s sore spots and she played right into Caroline’s plan.

  There was quite a bit of truth in her words, though. Darcy would be expected to marry a woman from London high society. Elizabeth knew her beauty was easily withstood and she had no fortune or connections and meagre accomplishments. She simply could not compete on those levels with the London ladies.

  Why should Caroline feel so threatened? Elizabeth considered Darcy’s actions at the Assembly. He mingled with the gentlemen but seemed to glare at her. Yet, if he was looking at her in disapproval, in light of her family’s behaviour, then why should Caroline worry at all?

  Suddenly, Darcy’s words flooded her memory. He had found her intelligent, charming and even accomplished. He called her refreshing and stated he did not like deference. When he met Jane, he did not even spare her beauty a glance, preferring to gaze at Elizabeth. He was all kindness in the face of her mother’s antics and even alluded to embarrassing family of his own. His sister decreed him loyal and even Elizabeth declared him constant. If she had earned his admiration, she would not lose it.

  She began to hope as she realized that if Mr. Darcy had truly desired a match like Caroline described then he could have easily married his cousin, Caroline or any other London lady by now. Perhaps he wanted a love match.

  The only question remaining in Elizabeth’s mind was if she would welcome his attentions. She laughed to herself at the thought. No, there was no question at all! Without intentional thought she had been answering that question all along. She had truly, finally, met a man who inspired her respect and admiration and never before had she so earnestly desired its reciprocation. Elizabeth realized Wickham and Caroline had meant to frighten her, but her courage always rose with every attempt at intimidation.

  *****

  She did not hear Darcy’s footsteps as he paused to watch her. Her eyes had been closed. Despite the bonnet she wore, he could see some of her beautiful face bathed in the warm beams of the sun. He was fascinated by the variety of emotions which passed over her and was entirely enchanted by her laugh, pleased to see she was well.

  Suddenly she opened her eyes and saw the earnest expression on his face, “Mr. Darcy!”

  He bowed and smiled, “Miss Bennet.”

  They stood facing each other, both searching for some sign. Finally Darcy asked, “I heard you were ill last evening. Are you feeling better?”

  “Yes, I thank you. Are you well this morning?”

  “Yes, quite.” Another silence ensued. “I was very sorry to miss our dance last night.”

  “Forgive me, I was very unwell.”

  “I am glad to see you recovered.” He paused for a moment and then acted on impulse. He pulled off his hat and tossed it under a nearby tree.

  Next he looked at Elizabeth intently and asked, “May I?”

  Elizabeth was unsure what he meant, but could deny him nothing and merely nodded her consent.

  He stepped closer and reached to untie the ribbons of her bonnet. She could scarcely breathe between his closeness and the intimacy of his actions. Darcy gently pulled the bonnet off and placed it next to his hat and then smiled broadly, “Much better. I can see your whole face and your lovely hair.”

  She blushed and he was charmed anew. He took her hand and bowed over it. ”Miss Elizabeth, may I have the honour of this dance?”

  She laughed, “I hear no music, sir.”

  “Do you not?” He began to hum the tune of a simple dance and was delighted when she joined in.

  They went through several steps before he spoke again, “Shall we use this example of my obstinacy as a fault or a virtue, Miss Elizabeth?”

  Elizabeth laughed again, “I suppose it depends on your level of conviction, sir.”

  He met her eyes, “I have never been more certain of anything.”

  “Then it must be a great virtue.”

  “What makes you think so?”

  She gazed affectionately, “Because I am assured of your character, sir.”

  Darcy wished to alleviate her concerns on his affections and tentatively began. “I had a very...interesting conversation with Miss Bingley.”

  Elizabeth blushed, “As did I.”

  “I hope her words did not upset you.”

  “What will you think of my vanity when I admit they did? I am acutely aware of my folly in allowing Miss Bingley and Mr. Wickham’s words to affect me.”

  Darcy could not believe his ears. “Pardon me, did you say Mr. Wickham? George Wickham?

  “Yes.” She could see he was distressed by the news. “He told me he was acquainted with you...”

  “Miss Elizabeth, it is essential I escort you back to Longbourn immediately and then depart to Netherfield in all haste. It is probable I shall have to journey to London as well. I shall explain all when at Longbourn and I should like to meet with your father as well.”

  The urgency and alarm in his voice combined with his hands upon her made her head spin.

  “Very well, sir. I shall not delay you for an instant.” Darcy collected their hats before the pair walked briskly back to Longbourn.

  They returned to the house just as the family had finished breakfast. Before Darcy could ask for his audience with Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Phillips was presented.

  “Sister! I heard the most dreadful gossip concerning Lydia and Mr. Wickham!” She cried out, heedless of any who heard her.

  Chapter Six


  Mrs. Phillips, Elizabeth’s maternal aunt, was even more vulgar than Mrs. Bennet. She did not shy away from repeating the most disgusting gossip and in the most outrageous language, even if it involved one of her nieces.

  Nothing could be understood through Mrs. Bennet’s shrieking, so she was promptly sent upstairs to be cared for by Jane and Kitty. Lydia was taken in her father’s study with Mr. Bennet staring her down, Elizabeth crying silent tears and Mr. Darcy gazing out the window. Mary consoled herself with the accounts of fallen women illustrated by Dr Fordyce.

  Although Lydia was resolute no compromise or liberties were taken, she affirmed that Mr. Wickham approached her on the balcony outside the assembly the previous night. She even attested to her innocence by naming Miss Bingley as a witness.

  The gossip was decidedly worse and grew with each retelling, as gossip generally does. There was no doubt a marriage would have to be created between Wickham and Lydia, but honour would never induce him and the Bennets did not have the income for financial motivation. Darcy paced about the room, quickly deciding that he would settle Wickham’s debts himself and find a new livelihood for him, away from Hertfordshire.

  Darcy explained his history with Wickham to Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth. The scoundrel had always taken advantage of the Darcy family. From becoming the favourite of the late Mr. Darcy, spewing lies about a denied living about the current Mr. Darcy and even attempting to elope with Georgiana. He was also a known gamester and rake.

  Darcy reasoned his need to offer assistance was due to his misguided loyalty to his father. In an effort to protect his family’s reputation, he never exposed Wickham. Internally, he knew Wickham harmed the Bennet family because he saw Darcy’s admiration for Elizabeth.

  Mr. Bennet hesitated, but knew he could not refuse the aid. “You say Mr. Wickham is not very honourable, has debts all over, and is a practiced gamester. What sort of husband shall he make?” Mr. Bennet asked Darcy.