Chapter Three: Only For a Little While
A surprised reply from Charles Bingley confirmed the hopes of his compliance with Darcy's plan. Darcy had released all of his servants, and put all his furniture on auction. Georgiana picked through her gowns and jewels, keeping only her favorite ones, and her mother's. Darcy whittled his wardrobe down as well, and they salvaged only their most prized possessions and each other. When they climbed into the hired coach for Netherfield, which Bingley had reoccupied for all their convenience ,they took one last look at Pemberley. Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds waved gloomily from the stairs; the last of the furniture proceeded from the building; the horses were lead from their stables toward the town. Georgiana wept, resigned to their fate. At last, she said, "Fitzwilliam, please tell the coachman to drive on. I can't look at it any longer." Her brother acted as she had wished. "Remember Georgiana, what I promised you. This is not good-bye forever. Only for a little while. Then we shall refurnish it, and collect new treasures for it, and it shall be as special as it ever was. Remember, only for a little while." He said, stroking her hair. They exited the gates for the last time, drove through Lambton for the last time, saw the peaks, one last time.
As they descended down the hill, neither spoke. There were too many memories, too many happy past recollections. There was nothing to say. There was only driving, and looking, and thinking. There were only emotions; regret, sadness, anger, and a tinge of happiness from the memories, and each other's company.
"You know, Georgiana, you are going to be in great need of finding a good friend upon your arrival to Netherfield, and the sooner the better. Caroline Bingley is likely to try and get hold of you, but I suggest finding a more suitable confidant," Darcy said, teasingly.
Georgiana giggled. "I believe you are right, Brother. You know the society; whom do you recommend?" she inquired.
"I'm not sure, my dear, but the two eldest Bennet daughters, Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth, would be quite the enjoyable and proper friends for such a girl as you," Darcy replied, his throat tightening at his mention of Elizabeth's name. Georgiana, of course, did not know of his regard for her, but it troubled him nonetheless.
"What are they like, Brother? How do they act? How do they look?"
"They are both amiable, sweet girls. Miss Jane, the elder, is blonde and fair with the temperament of an angel. Miss Elizabeth on the other hand, favors a darker coloring, with expressive eyes, and fine wit. They are acknowledged as the beauties of the entire county of Hertfordshire, however, they may have to stand aside, once you enter it."
Georgiana laughed at his last remark, but excited herself with the prospect of these two agreeable friends.
"I think I shall like them both very much. They sound like much finer company than Caroline Bingley, whose barbed remarks and sharp sense of humor are difficult to be exposed to."
Darcy nodded his agreement, and before either of them knew it, they approached Meryton. Georgiana commanded the right window, feasting her eyes upon the new place, drinking in the simple society, and joyous atmosphere.
"Gracious, Brother! This place shall be quite fun to live in! I already perceive the pleasantness of the people, and goodness of heart. Oh, why did we not come to visit the Bingleys sooner?" Georgiana cried.
"I am glad you will enjoy it. I believe there is to be a small assembly tonight. Should you care to join us?" Darcy asked. He was surprised at his own request. She was not out yet! However, it was a small one that Bingley had mentioned. Georgiana's eyes lit at the idea of music and dancing.
"Oh, I should like very much to come! It sounds like a promising way to begin our residence here!"
"Yes, indeed dear. Yes, indeed."
