Early that afternoon, Elizabeth met with Cook and Mrs. Reynolds in her study to discuss the upcoming Harvest Festival. The yearly festival was the brain-child of the late Mrs. Darcy, Fitzwilliam's mother, who designed the original as a feast to thank all the workers for their hard work to bring in the harvest and assure the survival of Pemberley for another year. After her death, Mrs. Reynolds continued the tradition, but it was much more low-key than before the Mistress's passing. The late Mr. Darcy would make an appearance and give a short speech, but did not take part in any of the activities. Likewise, after his death, Fitzwilliam allowed and encouraged the festival, but did not take part any more than his father had. It was not that he was not grateful to the tenants, but that his heart and mind were occupied with the grief of losing his father and the care of his sister and the estate. Also, despite knowing most the of the tenants his entire life, he was still not comfortable in large crowds and being the center of attention. After his marriage to Elizabeth, the festival changed.

Elizabeth believed that everyone had worked to bring in the harvest, including the Master of the estate and he, as well as the entire family, should take part in the party. Fitzwilliam still gave a short speech of gratitude, but there was also a dance and music. Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth opened the dance, but she also danced with the steward and any other male tenant that asked. The first year, after Mr. Andrews, she only danced with a few boys who were dared into it by their peers. But, seeing the happy and graceful Mrs. Darcy honor them with a turn on the dance floor encouraged others. This openness from the Mistress allowed many of the tenants to feel more at ease in approaching both the Master and the Mistress with concerns. Since reinvigorating the Harvest Festival, things had run smoother at Pemberley.

After confirming the date and the menu, lamenting that last year's musical group had disbanded and deciding on another from Lambton, Elizabeth and Cook discussed the possibility of a children's choir singing hymns of rejoicing. Mrs. Reynolds decided to send notes to the local ministers to see what could be done. In the last few years, Georgiana could be called upon to provide the music to accompany the children, but Mrs. Reynolds asked if Elizabeth could do it herself.

Elizabeth laughed, "As long as the hymns are simple and the children sing loud enough to drown out my mistakes, I'll be happy to help. As soon as the ministers have replied, let us plan a rehearsal schedule."

"Very good, Ma'am." Mrs. Reynolds was pleased to see the Mistress willing to participate in the festivities. "Will the dance be held as last year?"

"Oh, yes, I suppose," Elizabeth answered absently. "It will depend on how I am feeling that day. Sometimes, I just am so tired in the evenings. I will need to be sure and nap earlier that day." Mrs Reynolds gave Cook a significant look.

"Is there anything else, Mrs. Darcy? I've bread in the oven," asked Cook.

Elizabeth consulted her list. "No, I think that is all. Be sure to pull any maids or footmen as needed to prepare the feast, Cook."

"Thank-you, Ma'am," and Cook went back to her kitchens.

"Mrs. Darcy?" asked Mrs. Reynolds.

"Yes, Mrs. Reynolds. Did I forget anything?"

"No, not about the Festival. I was wondering if you are well?"

"Mrs. Reynolds, not you too! I am perfectly well and you are dismissed." Elizabeth turned in a huff to her desk to begin sorting the lists.

"Forgive me, ma'am, but you are not well."

"Mrs. Reynolds!"

"Please hear me, Ma'am. I've spoken to Becky and -"

"What does my personal maid have to do with anything?"

"Becky states that you have been sleeping more and eating less. You do not go for walks around the grounds as you used to. She said it seemed you had lost your zest of life." Elizabeth opened her mouth to speak, but Mrs. Reynolds interrupted. "Please, Ma'am. This morning, Mr. Darcy also discussed similar concerns with me. I do not presume that it is my place for you to confide in me. I only ask that you think about everyone's concerns and speak with Mr. Darcy. If it is truly nothing, then put his mind at ease. He loves you so. If it is more than nothing, perhaps he can help."

Elizabeth had turned to the window during this speech and stood with her back perfectly straight. "That will be all, ." When the door closed, her back crumpled a little and she whispered, "I am afraid I am beyond help."