At Longbourn, we find the Bennets having a quaint luncheon.
"I hope my dear, you have ordered a good dinner today" Mr. Bennet said "Because it have reason to expect an addition to our family party"
"Mr. Bingley! Why Jane you sly thing" Mrs. Bennet gleefully said "And you never dropped a word, oh dear and we need more fish to prepared"
"It is not Mr. Bingley" Mr. Bennet stated "It is a person I never saw, in the entirety of my life"
"Col. Forster" Lydia guessed "Or some of the officers"
"About a month ago I received this letter" Mr. Bennet pulls out the letter" It is from my cousin Mr. Collins, who when I am dead may turn you out of this house as soon as he pleases"
"Oh my dear, don't mention that odious man" Mrs. Bennet pleaded "I already think it the hardest thing for your estate to be entailed away from your own poor children"
"Indeed nothing can clear Mr. Collins from the ubiquitous crime of inheriting Longbourn" Mr. Bennet sarcastically said "But if you listen to his letter, you may be a little settled by the manner he expresses himself"
So Mr. Bennet read the letter to the Bennets.
"And where, God willing, you may expect me by four in the afternoon" Mr. Bennet ended "There, and so the future master of Longbourn is to arrive here sometime this afternoon"
"If he arrives to make amends then I will not deny him" Mrs. Bennet stated "Besides Mr. Bennet , you seem very far from the grave and is unlikely to die before I"
"I doubt it Mrs. Bennet" Mr. Bennet answered "Nonetheless he is arriving sometime in the next few hours, and we must prepare"
After luncheon, Longbourne stirred into a mix of activity as the maids and servants hurriedly cleaned and dusted most of the furnishings. The Bennet ladies likewise all took their baths and refreshed themselves for the arrival of an unexpected guest.
When news arrived that said carriage was approaching Longbourn the Bennets all met the Mr. Collins on the drive.
"Ah here he comes" Mr. Bennet exclaimed "And right on time as well"
"He must be an oddity" Elizabeth questioned "To write such a flowery letter only to inform us of his arrival"
"Well if he is suppose to make amends with us" Mrs. Bennet stated "I will be the one to take his measure"
"You think he will be a sensible man" Elizabeth questioned "He seemed to possess a very broad vocabulary, that adds to his intellect I suppose"
"I think not my dear" Mr. Bennet said "But I do hope of finding it quite the reverse"
As the carriage halted to a stop to the front of the Bennet , the presumably Mr. Collins looked upon the Bennets with a smile.
"Mr. Collins, you are very welcome" Mr. Bennet greeted "I hope the road here was easy"
"My dear Mr. and Mrs. Bennet" Mr. Collins greeted "I am much honored to be your guest. And no the road to Longbourn was very smooth and easy"
"May I present my daughter" Mr. Bennet stated "Jane the eldest, Elizabeth the second, Mary, Kitty and Lydia"
"Oh I am very honored to be acquainted with such beautiful women" Mr. Collins admired "Your daughters truly are the roses of Longbourn"
"Thank you" Mr. Bennet said "Come inside Mr. Collins"
Mr. Collins was given a tour of the estate courtesy of Mr. Bennet. Though Longbourn was not a very large estate it took them quite a bit of time to tour its entirety, since Mr. Bennet insisted upon walking to truly show its worth and beauty.
The tour ended as dinner was served, the Bennets and Mr. Collins dined upon a splendid spread of food.
"You are very fortunate on your patroness Mr. Collins" Mr. Bennet stated.
"Lady Catherine de Bourgh" Mr. Collins reveled "Indeed Sir, I have been treated with such affability and kindness, as I would never have dared to hope for. I have been invited twice to dine at Rosings Park"
"Ah, that is so amazing" Mr. Bennet said with a hint of sarcasm.
"Those she live near you sir" Mrs. Bennet asked.
"The garden at which stands my humble abode is separated only by a lane from Rosings Park" Mr. Collins informed "And it is a very nice home, appropriated to me by her ladyship herself"
"Has her ladyship have any family, a son perhaps" Mrs. Bennet asked "Surely an estate such as Rosings is not the home of a lone lady"
"Sadly she is a widow, but she has an only daughter" Mr. Collins said sadly "The heiress of the very extensive Rosings"
"And has she been presented at court" Mrs. Bennet asked "The honorable de Bourgh, is surely a flowers of the court"
"Unfortunately she is of a sickly constitution" Mr. Collins added "Which unhappily prevents her from being in town, and of which I personally said to her Ladyship 'the British court has sadly been deprived of its brightest ornament'. I am sure to offer those little and delicate compliments which are always acceptable to ladies"
"Fortunate for you Mr. Collins that you possess such an extraordinary talent for flattering with delicacy" Mr. Bennet sarcastically said "May I ask if these pleasing attention result from the impulse of the moment or the result of previous study"
"In the chiefest, I sometimes amuse myself of writing down such little compliments, but I do try to get them as appropriate for each moment" Mr. Collin stated
"Very excellent" Mr. Bennet stated attempting not to laugh "Quite excellent"
The next morning, the Bennets are currently outside since the day is very beautiful, with sun shining brightly and the wind blowing calmly, the youngest Bennets playing horseshoes and the eldest taking a turn about, with Mrs. Bennet attending to Mr. Collins.
"I must confess, that I quite overwhelmed at the charms of your girls Mrs. Bennet" Mr. Collins stated "Especially the eldest Ms. Bennet"
"Oh yes, Jane is especially admired wherever she goes" Mrs. Bennet boasted "But I think I should tell you Mr. Collins, that it is very likely that she would be soon engaged. As for my younger daughters, there are no prior attachments at all"
"I see" Mr. Collins smiled as he surveyed the Bennets.
As the youngest Bennet run towards Mrs. Bennet.
"We are all going to Meryton mama, to see if the officers have returned to town" Lydia said happily "I hope to see Denny and Sanderson"
"Perhaps you would care for a little exercise Mr. Collins" Mrs. Bennet stated "Escort my daughters to Meryton I suppose"
"Indeed I will Mrs. Bennet" Mr. Collins happily said "Oh cousin Elizabeth, would you do me the great honor of walking with me to town"
The Bennet daughters traveling to Meryton on the beautiful day, and in hurried pace as if attempting to escape something.
The group eventually arrives in Meryton, and the youngest Bennets immediately look towards the shops and argue amongst themselves who it would belong to after they bought it.
"I am determined to have this Bonnet" Kitty stated "It would look much better on me, rather than Lydia"
"Huh, Oh look it's Denny" Lydia exclaimed "He is over there look"
"They are looking over" Kitty said "Lizzy are they not good looking"
"DENY!" shouted Lydia to the reprimand of Jane "I thought you were still in town"
"There is nothing amusing enough to keep us there" Denny stated "Allow me to introduce my good friend, Mr. Wickham"
"Will you stay long in Meryton Mr. Wickham" Elizabeth asked.
"All winter I am happy to stay" Wickham answered "I have taken a commission is Col. Forster's regiment"
"It would see you would be dressed in regimentals" Kitty stated.
"And render much distinction I dare say" Denny said "You will out swagger us all, aye Mr. Wickham"
"Denny you misrepresent me to these young ladies" Wickham stated "I fear they might look upon me different"
"Will you come with us to our uncle Phillips this evening" Lydia asked "Denny is coming you know, it is only sup and cards, but we shall have some laughs"
"I am afraid I have not been invited by Mr. and Mrs. Phillips" Wickham answered "If Mr. and Mrs. Phillips extended the invitation to me I would be delighted to"
As two gentlemen approach on horseback, proving to be Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy.
"How very fortunate" Mr. Bingley lauded "Did you not know we were on our way to Longbourn to ask after your health Jane"
"You are very kind Sir" Jane blushed "I am quite recovered"
"Oh and hello, I am Mr. Bingley" Mr. Bingley smiled towards Mr. Collins.
"Charmed Mr. Bingley" Mr. Collins bowed "I must say your horse seems exquisitely bred"
"Oh uhm, thank you Mr. Collins" Mr. Bingley said confused.
"Mr. Bingley may I present my cousin Mr. Collins" Jane stated "He will be staying at Longbourn for a while"
"Oh Mr. Bingley, now that Jane is in good health, when can you host the ball" Lydia pressed "Surely you remember your promise"
"I am perfectly willing to keep my word" Mr. Bingley stated "And as such now I ask, when would you want it held"
"On Saturday" Lydia answered "To give people ample time to prepare for it"
"If it is convenient for you Mr. Bingley" Jane said "We would not want to inconvenience you"
"Oh none at all" Mr. Bingley answered "On Saturday it is then"
"Now I am definitely getting that Bonnet" Kitty stated.
At the Phillips's house, the cards and liquor was served, and people were enjoying themselves.
"What a charming apartment you have here Mrs. Phillips" Mr. Collins complimented "But on my word it reminds me greatly of a small set of rooms in Rosings"
"Does it indeed Sir" Mrs. Phillips said looking insulted "I much oblige you I am sure"
" I am sure Mr. Collins wishes to pay a compliment aunt" Jane stressed "Rosings Park we must understand is very grand indeed"
"Indeed it is" Mr. Collins interrupted "Oh my dear Madam, if you thought that I intended any slight on your excellent and very comfortable arrangements, I am very mistook, Rosings Park is very grand to be compared to it is a great compliment"
"Oh now I see it is clear, there is no offense at all" Mrs. Phillips said sarcastically "Would you oblige me and sit down for a game of Whist"
"I must confess I know little of the game madam, but I shall be glad to improve myself" Mr. Collins admitted "If my fair cousins, can consent to my absence"
"By all means Sir" Elizabeth sighed in relief as Mr. Collins left.
"And who would that man be Miss Elizabeth Bennet" William asked as he snuck upon the eldest Bennets.
"Oh dear William, must you surprise us like so" Elizabeth feigned surprise "And the gentleman earlier was none other than our esteemed cousin Mr. Collins"
"And I believe he as amiable as the both of you" William asked to the slight sniffle from both "Though he might prove to be the opposite"
"Is that a hint of prejudice I hear from you William" Elizabeth pressed "And I thought you were a amiable man"
"It is merely social referencing, far from prejudice" William reeled "Though I must say, is he such an odious man to receive such laughter at the idea of him being pleasant"
"Not as being unpleasant" Jane corrected "More of unneeded and unending flattery, he so enjoys to give"
"Then I must make his acquaintance" William declared "Since I avoid compliments so very much, I might learn something of accepting from such a man"
"I hope you hold a strong constitution" Elizabeth giggled "And a patience to be riled by the tales of Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings Park"
"He is a tenant of Rosings, I daresay he is very lucky" William stated "Lady de Bourgh is a very generous patroness, much admired by others"
"He so very likes to remind us" Elizabeth sighed to the repetition of Jane.
"And it would seem that a regiment of infantry has found its way into your aunts house" William stated "Lydia and Kitty seem very well pleased at the fact"
"Aye they do" Elizabeth stated as Wickham approached "William may I present Mr. Wickham"
"It would seem that the younger Bennets seem to enjoy your and the other officers company" William said.
"I must confess, I thought I would never escape them" Wickham stated to the laugh of Elizabeth.
"They can be very determined" Elizabeth said "Lydia especially"
"They are very pleasant girls" Wickham stated "Indeed I find society in Hertfordshire quite exceeding my expectations"
"Indeed, most would be surprised at the pleasantness of society here is Hertfordshire" William added "Though I question which you find pleasant the society or the girls in it"
"Both I would imagine" Wickham answered "But I am very inclined to answer the latter"
"And you will find none more pleasant conversation than with Elizabeth" William boasted "She is also a renowned local beauty, and the cleverness and wit unbefitting her height"
"Don't believe the exaggerations of William" Elizabeth lauded "He is only doing so to take measure of you"
"Abominable reply, Slander I tell you" William feigned insult "I only speak the truth, and nothing but. Tell me Mr. Wickham is she not a beauty, is her wit and intellect unappealing. Though take heed in your answer as Miss Elizabeth is very dear to me"
"I seem to be left with only one choice upon the matter" Wickham answered smiling "Worry not of your dear Elizabeth, since she is truly what you speak"
"Good good, but about you Jane, where are the Netherfield Party" William asked "That excellent man most certainly is not easily willing to forego a meeting with yourself"
"I think some of Bingley's friends consider it below their dignity" Elizabeth injected "Though your presence here William lightens the mood"
"I am informed that you spent much time in Netherfield, Lizzy" William confused "And did the experience not better acquaint you with their countenances"
"Mr. Bingley is as seen, Mr. Darcy however acknowledges his weaknesses such as Bitterness and vainglory, but still thinks himself above our company" Elizabeth declared "Oh why do we speak of such a fastidious man"
"How long have you know Mr. Darcy" Wickham asked "I myself, all my life, we played together as children. Perhaps you have noticed the coldness in our meeting"
"Though I hope he does not mean to stay long" Elizabeth stated "For the entire neighborhood is disgusted with his pride"
"As such I cannot be driven away by Mr. Darcy" Wickham stated "If he wishes to avoid me he must go, though I have no reason to avoid him, even if he has done me great wrong"
"I am not very much surprised at this fact" Elizabeth stated.
"My father was the steward of the late Mr. Darcy, and when my father died Mr. Darcy cared for me in fact he loved me I believe, he intended me for church, it was my dearest wish to enter it as my profession, and after Mr. Darcy died the living he promised me fell vacant, the son refused to honor his father's wishes" Wickham explained "And so you see, I have had to make my own way in the world"
"This is quite unbelievable, downright slanderous" William said "For a man as prideful as Darcy to descend into such malicious revenge I would think it below him"
"Why do you defend the man" Elizabeth added "To do such a thing, he deserves to be publicly disgraced"
"And he will be, but not by me" Wickham stated "Until I can forget his father, I can never defy or expose him"
"Excuse us Wickham" William pulled Elizabeth aside "Elizabeth heed my warning, take whatever the Mr. Wickham's words with a grain of salt, his tales are contrary to the faults of Mr. Darcy"
"You believe he is tricking us" Elizabeth accused "I cannot deduce why you would not believe Mr. Wickham"
"You have known this man for less than an hour, and the Mr. Darcy entire days, myself our entire lives" William explained "Tell me whose words are you to believe, his or mine"
"Yours always" Elizabeth answered.
As the little discussion about the character of Mr. Wickham happened, the man was whisked away to dance by Lydia.
That evening inside Jane Bennet's room, Elizabeth and Jane are discussing the events and activities exposed that party.
"I must take Williams side Lizzy" Jane stated "Mr. Darcy will have far too high a respect for his father's wishes, and Lizzy consider, how can his most intimate friends be deceived in him"
"I can more easily imagine Mr. Bingley being imposed upon, than to think Mr. Wickham to invent such a history" Elizabeth stated.
"I believe you like Mr. Wickham Lizzy" Jane questioned "To readily believe such claims, must be supported by a deal of attraction"
"I confess I do like him" Elizabeth confessed "I cannot see how anyone cannot like him, there is something very open and agreeable in his manner, he feels deeply I believe, and yet has a natural merriment and energy despite of this"
"After so short of an acquaintance" Jane dismissed "I don't think we should believe in him so implicitly, at the very least listen to William's advice and take his word with a grain of salt"
"There was truth in all of his looks" Elizabeth defended "He gave names and facts, it is hard not to believe him"
"It is distressing, in both regards" Jane admitted.
The morning at Longbourn, the Bennet daughters and Mr. Collins are currently enjoying the beautiful day, with the eldest daughter quietly embroidering screen, and with the youngest trying attire to wear to the Netherfield Ball.
And with a resounding bellow Mrs. Bennet burst through the door exclaiming something about being invited to the Netherfield Ball.
"Oh Good, I would love a ball" Lydia exclaimed.
"Oh this will be a compliment to you Jane you know" Mrs. Bennet lauded "Oh and the invitation includes you Mr. Collins"
"But shall you accept Mr. Collins" Elizabeth asked "Would it be entirely proper, would your bishop approve"
"Your scruples do you credit, dear cousin" Mr. Collins stated "But I am of an opinion that a Ball of this kind, given by a man of good character to very respectable people. Can have no evil tendency"
"That is very well indeed Mr. Collins" Jane stated.
"I shall be honored to dance with all my fair cousins during the evening" Mr. Collins gleefully said "And I take this opportunity of soliciting yours, Miss Elizabeth for the first two dances"
The Bennet daughters spent the afternoon in the garden of Longbourn, since the officers arrived and kept them company. The youngest enjoying themselves on the swing with the Denny and the others, with Mr. Wickham and Mr. Collins walking the grounds with Elizabeth.
"And I tell you that the chimney piece alone, costs more than 800 pounds" Mr. Collins explained "Her ladyship is fond of a good blaze"
"Then it must be a very large fireplace" Wickham added "For such a large estate it is certainly prudent to have such large fireplaces"
"Aye truly it is, but the warmth of Rosings is certainly very pleasant" Collins stated "One would not feel the chills of winter there"
"Oh Mr. Collins" Jane shouted "I must ask you to help my sister Mary, she has found a passage of Fordryce that she cannot make out at all"
"Well I am-" Mr. Collins attempted.
"I believe it is of great doctrinal importance" Jane insisted "She is in the drawing room"
"In that case I must go immediately" Collins stated at which both Jane and Collins left for the drawing room.
"Mr. Collins'es conversation is" Wickham thought "Wholesome"
"And there is plenty to be had of it" Elizabeth stated "And have you met Mr. Bingley's acquaintance yet"
"No, but I am already disposed to approve of him" Wickham stated "He issued a general invitation to the officers, for this Ball at Netherfield, which has caused great joy in more than one quarter"
"Mr. Bingley is eager to approve of everyone he meets, but he is sensible man with taste and judgment" Elizabeth said "I wonder very much how Mr. Darcy could impose upon him, that he does not know his true character"
"Probably not, Mr. Darcy can please what he chooses, if he thinks it's worth his while" Wickham stated "With his equal in wealth and consequence, he can well minded, honorable, even agreeable"
"Indeed you speak of them so tolerable" Elizabeth said "And if Mr. Darcy is such, I wonder about his sister"
"Well I wish I can call her amiable, as a child she was affectionate, pleasing and very fond of me" Wickham explained "But, she has grown very proud, much like her brother. I never see her anymore since her father's death, she is 16 now much like your sister Lydia"
"Lydia is 15" Elizabeth corrected.
"I was amused by your cousins reference to Lady Catherine de Bourgh" Wickham stated "She is Mr. Darcy's aunt you know, her daughter Anne will inherit a very large fortune and is destined to be Mr. Darcy's bride"
"Really" Elizabeth gasped "Poor Miss Bingley, and she so favors Mr. Darcy and all for naught"
At the Netherfield Ball, as the Bennets enter Netherfield they are welcomed inside by the Netherfield group and exchanged quick pleasantries.
The next group of persons to enter was from Berkhamstead, all dressed in their company green regimentals with only William without a uniform to don. Though William wore a coat of deep crimson red with silver in-lays, it was likened to wearing art upon one's self.
"Lord William, welcome to Netherfield" Ms. Bingley exclaimed "Truly your presence here is very appreciated"
"Thank you Miss Bingley" William returned "May I present the officers of Berkhamstead Castle, Capt. Albert, Capt. Mills, and Lt. Robert"
"Oh you are very welcome Sirs" Miss Bingley stated "It is a pleasure to meet officers of his Grace's Army"
"Miss Bingley I must thank you for inviting us" Capt. Albert stated "Though the more senior officers of the army are off fighting in India, we are glad that you invited us"
"Oh nonsense, any acquaintance of Lord William is welcome in Netherfield" Miss Bingley said proudly "And his Earl William is always welcome to Netherfield"
"Thank you Miss Bingley" smiled William "May I take this opportunity to ask the hostess of this ball the first dance with me"
"I am very flattered sir" Ms. Bingley said shyly "Excuse us brother"
And the Netherfield Ball began, with the dancers taking their place in the center, which include Mr. Bingley and Jane, William and Miss Bingley, Lydia and Denny. The others on the margins having conversations with each other over cups of wine, and in the far back of the room stood Mr. Darcy whose eyes seemed to follow Elizabeth across the room.
"Charlotte may I present my cousin Mr. Collins" Elizabeth said "My friend Miss Lucas"
"How do you do sir" Charlotte greeted.
"Miss Lucas I am indeed much honored to meet you" Collins stated "And to an effect amongst so many agreeable young ladies. I am quite enraptured"
Then Mr. Collins pulls upon Elizabeth for the first dance.
The pair dance the set, with Mr. Collins obviously attempting his very best at dancing, With Darcy eagerly looking on to the festivities of the evening.
The first set finishes and the participants left the central dance floor, with William moving in the same direction of Elizabeth and Charlotte.
"Elizabeth, Charlotte" William greeted, at which the two responded in kind "From the look of your face Elizabeth it would seem you are quite displeased"
"You see William it is about the Mr. Darcy" Charlotte stated "It would seem that Mr. Darcy's character is very villainous"
"I would wager that these certain resentments come from the Mr. Wickham" William questioned "And from the manner of speaking I noticed earlier, it would seem he has you quite convinced Lizzy"
"How could it be otherwise, every circumstance confirms it" Elizabeth defended "And Mr. Darcy boasted to me himself of his resentful and despicable manner"
"To believe a tale told by a man who claims to be the victim, and immediately render judgment to the other is unjust" William stated "A man will claim anything to make his plight sound better to the eyes of others"
"But- " Elizabeth attempted to retort.
"No Elizabeth, do not discredit yourself any longer" William declared "And besides your beauty and wit will be degraded by these thoughts of anger and resentment. Is this not a Ball, and are they not for merriment and happiness, come Lizzy and dance with the rest of us"
"William does speak the truth Lizzy, negative emotion do tend to dull ones charms" Charlotte stated "And it would seem that you are full of them this evening"
"Exactly" William exclaimed "And you Charlotte likewise I ask to dance with for the next if you are not otherwise engaged"
"No I am not William" Charlotte answered "Though some of your officers are very handsome"
"Oh I see, then I will acquaint you immediately" William said with sly smile.
William and Elizabeth took to the center to dance the next dance; Elizabeth's face still held some measure of displeasure and her smile had yet to return, but William's face was bright and radiant.
The dance begun and still the face persisted upon Elizabeth's face.
"Oh Elizabeth you are off a step" William said.
"I am not Sir" Elizabeth stated "You are the one out of step William"
"That I am, and it only took you most of the opening steps to notice" William smiled to Elizabeth that causes her to giggle in response.
"Oh William, you are very silly indeed" Elizabeth said "But you are my silly friend. Thank you"
"Anything for you Elizabeth" William stated "Smile you are more beautiful when you are smiling"
And the two danced the set with smiles on their faces.
As the set ended William excused himself and walked towards Charlotte and left Elizabeth alone with Jane and Mr. Bingley.
"You seem in better spirits" Jane stated "I believe William is responsible for this change of temper"
"He does have that effect does he not" Elizabeth stated as Mr. Darcy approached them.
"If you are not otherwise engaged" Darcy stated "Could you do me the honor of dancing the next set with me Miss Bennet"
"Why I, I had not" Elizabeth stuttered "Thank you, yes"
"Thank you, Miss Lucas, Miss Elizabeth" Darcy excused and left.
"Hateful man" Elizabeth stated "I promised myself I would not dance with him"
"He pays you a great compliment in singling you out Lizzy" Charlotte stated "Think of what you are doing, you would be a simpleton to let your fancy for Wickham lead you to slight a man ten times his consequence"
"It does me little pleasure to dance with Mr. Darcy" Elizabeth stated "Though as William stated it is not a time for anger and resentment, as such I will attempt to be civil and enjoy this Ball"
As the set began, Elizabeth had a miniscule smile on her face mirrored by Darcy. The set was well underway and Elizabeth attempted to open conversation.
"I believe we must have some form of conversation Mr. Darcy" Elizabeth said "A very little will suffice"
"Yes, I believe we should" Darcy replied "Tell me Miss Bennet, how do you find the Ball"
"I find it quite enjoyable" Elizabeth answered "Though I can remark on the number of couples present"
"May Inquire as to which" Darcy asked "The abundance of couples or lack of said couples"
"Both I assume" Elizabeth answered as she swirled.
"And these remarks" Darcy asked "Do you consult me on these feelings, to reflect upon myself or yourself"
"Both I imagine" Elizabeth answered "We of each an unsocial taciturn disposition, I am surprised at finding you very forthcoming this evening"
"And in a very striking resemblance to your characters" Darcy smiled "I am sure that we should share more of these remarks about the things that we find fascinating"
"Then let us continue" Elizabeth smiled in return "Ask of me anything you wish to speak of"
"Do you often walk to Meryton" Darcy asked "Your slightly tanned complexion speaks volumes of your habit of walking"
"Yes quite often" Elizabeth answered "Though I must also admit that I find such sunny days perfect for touring the countryside"
"Do you often pass Meryton in your escapades" Darcy inquired "If so I would be very pleased to join you and introduce me to the lay of the land"
"Is that so Mr. Darcy" Elizabeth smiled "Would not being found with me unsupportable"
"With mixed company it would be unsupportable" Darcy stated "It would be best if none found us on these escapades"
"Being found with me would so greatly tarnish your esteemed reputation" Elizabeth said "As such I would insist upon you being very distant to myself"
The dance ended and Elizabeth stormed off to one side of the Hall.
Not long later dinner was served and the guests to the ball were happily seated and ate with smiles on their faces.
Elizabeth herself finished eating early and decided walk around to chat amicably with the other guests, and was interrupted when she finds Miss Bingley likewise doing the same.
"Oh Miss Eliza, I hear you are quite delighted with George Wickham" Miss Bingley "No doubt he forgot to tell you amongst his other communications, that he is merely the son of Old Wickham the late Mr. Darcy's steward. And as a friend let me tell you not to give credit to all his associates, Wickham treated Darcy in an infamous manner"
"Has he" Elizabeth challenged.
"I don't remember the particulars, but I do know that Mr. Darcy was in the least to blame" Miss Bingley stated "I pity you Eliza, for the discovery of your favorites guilt, but really considering his descent one cannot expect anymore"
"His guilt and descent by your account to be the same" Elizabeth retorted "I never accused of being nothing more than the late Mr. Darcy's steward, and that he told me himself"
"I beg your pardon" Miss Bingley excused "Excuse me, my interference it was kindly meant"
As Elizabeth and Caroline dashed in opposite direction, with Jane hot upon the heels of Elizabeth.
"Insolent girl" Elizabeth exclaimed "It is nothing but a paltry attack of her ignorance to the malice of Mr. Darcy"
"Yes but Lizzy" Jane added "Mr. Bingley did say, though he does not know the whole history, he feels that Mr. Wickham is by no means a respectable young man"
"Does he know Mr. Wickham himself" Elizabeth stated "If not then he has had his account from Mr. Darcy"
At that moment Mr. Bingley attempted to enhance the situation with some music, at which Mary sprung to action. Mary Bennet played on the piano forte and sung a ballad to the diners and at that moment is when Mr. Darcy took his opportunity to speak with William.
"My Lord William" Darcy greeted "Please excuse my interruption"
"Mr. Darcy it is not an interruption" William happily greeted "Excuse me Sirs"
"Please accept my deepest thanks Lord William" Darcy bowed "Without your honest appraisal of my countenance I would never have achieved much in the ways of wooing my lady of affections"
"I deserve no such thanks Mr. Darcy" William said embarrassed as some of the room looked towards them "Besides Mr. Darcy it was not I who urged you to improve your social competence, it was a feat you yourself achieved"
"Nonetheless Lord William, if not for you I would have never known of my deficiencies" Darcy stated "As such I would return the kindness in any way I can"
"Surely it is of no consequence" William said "Though Mr. Darcy I must inquire if it is of no imposition, the true nature of the Mr. Wickham"
"That Mr. Wickham" Darcy seethed "He is a dishonorable man and by no means respectable, he only presents a façade that hides a different person"
"Such as I though" William exclaimed "The man was far too obliging and held no principle to maintain"
"But Lord William, may I ask that you do not expose him" Darcy stated "For the love that my father bore him and for the years of brotherhood we shared"
"I will not expose Wickham" William smiled "Given that you no longer call me 'Lord' William, and only William or Mr. William, enough of the Lord business I have enough of that in town already"
"Of course Lor- , William" Darcy stated "Excuse me, as I shall not withhold you from any merriment"
As Darcy returned to his seat he is ambushed by Mr. Collins.
"Mr. Darcy I have made a remarkable, nay I must say an amazing discovery" Mr. Collins stated "I understand you are the nephew of Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings Park, and well Mr. Darcy I am in a happy position to inform you that her ladyship is in good health eight days ago"
"I am glad to hear it" Darcy said "And what is your name sir"
"My name is William Collins Mr. Darcy" Mr. Collins stated "And it is a very great honor"
"Well Mr. Collins, I thank you for the update upon my aunt" Darcy stated "But if you would excuse me"
And Mr. Darcy returns to William.
"So I see you met the infamous Mr. Collins" William smiled "How do you find him"
"I see he has a penchant for stating the obvious, and a great flatterer in his conversation" Darcy added "As it stands I abhor any sort of disguise and his entire countenance reeks of pretentiousness"
"I think I should go and meet the man" William said sarcastically "He might prove to be able to rid me of my abhorrence to compliments"
"From my perspective your abhorrence would only grow" Darcy stated "Your view upon compliments would only skew towards a worst"
And after a few more moments of small talk, the background music changed tune as Mrs. Hurst replaced Mary upon the piano forte.
At Longbourn we find Elizabeth and Kitty Bennet arranging the flowers inside the sitting room and talking about the evening at Netherfield.
"I thought Mary sung very ill" Kitty said.
"Yes, poor Mary" Elizabeth stated "But she is determined to do it"
"Oh and Mr. Collins trotted on my dress you know" Kitty informed.
"Lizzy My dear" Mrs. Bennet shouted, as she approached with Mr. Collins in tow.
"Kitty please don't leave me" Elizabeth said seemingly panicked at the approaching sight.
"Come Kitty I want you upstairs" Mrs. Bennet ordered "Mr. Collins has something to say to Lizzy"
"Mama don't go" Elizabeth pleaded "Mr. Collins must excuse me, he can have nothing to say that anyone cannot hear"
"Lizzy I insist that you stay here and hear Mr. Collins" Mrs. Bennet insisted "Come Kitty, come along"
"Believe me my dear Miss Elizabeth that your modesty adds to your other perfections" Mr. Collins complimented "But you could hardly doubt the object of my discourse, however your feminine delicacy leads you dissemble, for as always as I enter the house, I single you out for the companion of my future life, but if I am to relate my feelings on the subject perhaps it would be advisable for me to state my reasons for marrying. First because I think it the right thing for every clergyman to set the example of matrimony in his parish, secondly that it would add greatly to my happiness, and lastly that because it is the particular recommendation of my noble patroness Lady Catherine de Bourgh and I quote 'Choose promptly and a gentle woman for your sake, so that you may bring her to huntsford and I will visit her', as such your wit and vivacity I think must be acceptable when tempered with the silence and respect which her rank would inevitably incite. And as for my particular choice, my dear Elizabeth, being as I am to inherit all this estate after the death of your father, that I could not satisfy myself without resolving to choose a wife amongst his daughters, but now nothing remains only to assure you in the most animated language the violence of my affections, to fortune I am perfectly in defeat I am well aware that 1,000 pounds in inheritance is all you will ever be entitled to, but rest assure I shall never reproach on that when we are married"
"You are too hasty Sir" Elizabeth stated "You forget that I have made no answer, let me do so now. I thank you for your compliments, and I am very sensible in the honor of your proposal, but it is impossible for me to accept them"
"I am no means discouraged" Mr. Collins smiled "I understand that it is usual for young ladies to reject the addresses of a man they secretly mean to accept when he first applies for their favor and therefore I shall hope my dear cousin, to lead you to the altar before long"
"Upon my word your hope is an extraordinary one in view of my declaration" Elizabeth stated "I was perfectly serious at my refusal, you could not make me happy. And I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world to make you so"
"My dear Miss Elizabeth, my condition in life, my conduction from a noble family of de Bourgh, my circumstances are highly in my favor" Mr. Collins explained "You should consider that it is no means certain that another offer of marriage may ever be made, which makes me believe that you are not serious in your rejection"
"I assure you Sir, that I have no pretentions to the kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man" Elizabeth added "I thank you for the honor of your proposal, but to accept them is absolutely impossible, my feeling forbid it in every respect"
"You are formally charming" Mr. Collins continued to insist "I am quite certain that if sanctioned by your excellent parents my proposals will not fail"
In the Longbourn Library, Mrs. Bennet burst through the door in clear distress.
"Oh Mr. Bennet, you are wanted immediately, we are all in uproar" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed "You must come and make Lizzy marry Mr. Collins, for he knows she will not have him and if you do not make haste Mr. Collins will change his mind and he will not have her"
"My dear I did not understand you" Mr. Bennet said confused "What are you talking about"
"Oh, Mr. Collins and Lizzy" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed "Lizzy declare she will not have Mr. Collins, and if Mr. Collins begins to see he will not have Lizzy"
"What am I to do on the occasion" Mr. Bennet said "Seems like a hopeless business"
"Speak to Lizzy about it yourself" Mrs. Bennet declared "And tell her you insist upon her marrying him"
"Let her come in" Mr. Bennet stated and to the bellows of Mrs. Bennet towards Elizabeth.
"Come here Lizzy" Mr. Bennet stated "I understand that Mr. Collins has made you an offer of marriage. Is this true"
"Yes it is Sir" Elizabeth answered.
"Very well, and this offer of marriage you have refused" Mr. Bennet asked.
"I have" Elizabeth answered.
"And now we come to point" Mr. Bennet stated "Your mother insists upon your accepting. Is it not so Mrs. Bennet"
"Yes" Mrs. Bennet said "Or I will never see her again"
"It would seem an unhappy alternative is between you Elizabeth" Mr. Bennet declared "For your mother will never see you again unless you accept Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do accept Mr. Collins"
" Oh Mr. Bennet" Mrs. Bennet cried "