Chapter 9
Mr. Woodworth began the evening with a complicated piece on the piano forte. He then followed this with better known concerto to which he sung the accompaniment, his solemn baritone voice resonating around the room. Mary was then invited to be the first lady to perform, much to her happiness, and Mr. Woodworth assumed her seat next to Elizabeth.
Glancing at the Darcy siblings on her other side, he whispered, "And so, Miss Elizabeth, are you pleased to have these former acquaintances returned to the neighbourhood?"
"I am indeed," Lizzy smiled, hoping to avoid further discussion, but the gentleman would not be put off. Not even by the dark glare he was receiving from Mr. Darcy.
"I must say, I am most satisfied at their coming," He had shifted in his chair closer to her, and she was very aware of the attention their quiet converse was drawing. "I do feel they have quite rounded out the society now, especially the charming Mrs. Russell. Had you met the Russells before?"
She did not have the moment to respond, for he continued with his own thoughts, detailing at length his admiration of that lady's taste in fashion, her poise and manners, and her intelligence which she was quick to exhibit so far that evening.
"And how do you find Mr. Russell?" She asked, tiring of his adulation.
"He is something of a dullard," Mr. Woodworth made a face at the couple in question, " I cannot understand how such a beauty, a lady of taste and character could marry, bind herself for all eternity to a drab mimicry of a gentleman. How he must bore her!"
When Lizzy cast him a disapproving eye, he defended, "You will see once you meet him properly."
"I am resolved to not assume about those I meet, and especially not to be predisposed based on what others might report." Lizzy warned, "I'm sure there is much to appreciate about Mr. Russell that simply is learnt upon knowing him better."
"Then you will be no fun this evening," he was mischievously grinning, "I was hoping for a discussion on the study of these new characters."
"A criticism of their union is hardly fair though."
"I withdraw my insult to your good nature then, I will keep my wicked assumptions to myself."
They sat in silence listening to Mary's concluding chords, however the gentleman could not help resuming the discussion when Mrs. Russell began a performance for the group, surprising all by sitting at the harp instead of the piano-forte.
"You must agree with me that the lady is impressive," he insisted.
"I do not deny that Mrs. Russell displays with talent and grace, her dress this evening is admirable, but as I have little experience of her manners nor knowledge of her person, I can only give her credit for her fashion and performance."
They continued in this manner for the rest of Mrs. Russell's piece, he attempting to draw her into conversation and she refusing, all the while mindful of those seated on her other side. They spoke in such hushed tones, she was sure neither Mr. or Miss Darcy could hear what was said over the music, but she worried what might be thought by them as to the nature of Mr. Woodworth's behavior towards her. Still the more that gentleman spoke to her, the more she felt the need to reply, which was most unfortunate.
After several performances, Mr. Edmund invited the group to partake in refreshments in the next room. Lizzy found this opportunity ideal to resume her discussion with Miss Darcy as Mr. Woodworth removed to assist other guests.
"I think I shall have to rehearse a great deal if I am to perform in the future, Mrs. Russell certainly is very skilled."
Miss Darcy agreed, "I did not even know she could play the harp, she has played on the piano-forte since Sunday last."
"And have you also been practicing with her? "
"Only a little."
"You have been too busy exploring the country, I suppose?" Lizzy smiled indulgently at the younger lady.
"I have seen some of the countryside when we went out riding yesterday, it is quite lovely," Miss Darcy looked towards Mr. Darcy, indicating to Lizzy who 'we' were. "Though it was rather windy, so we couldn't ride out as long as I would have liked."
Pleased that Georgiana seemed complacent enough in her company to speak so easily, Lizzy's confidence grew. "I do have a partiality about Hertfordshire, but I think you would find it more pleasant in the warmer seasons, winter can strip the color away. As Mr. Darcy could attest." Lizzy looked up at the gentleman and it was clear he had not expected to be mentioned, let alone invited into the conversation.
He spoke quietly, "Indeed Miss Elizabeth, though I have never observed Hertfordshire to not be charming."
Standing, he moved to speak again, but was interrupted by the return of Mr. Woodworth, evidently planning to take up his discussion with Lizzy once more.
There was a moment of hesitance by both gentlemen before Mr. Woodworth spoke, "I am to understand that Miss Elizabeth has perhaps a better acquaintance with yourself Mr. Darcy, than the rest of the neighbourhood." And then addressing Lizzy herself, "You have had the honor of being received at his home as well I am told."
"I was, yes, though it was a matter of chance" Lizzy answered for both of them, noting Mr. Darcy's discomfort at the query. "I was on a tour of the northern estates with my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. I was rather grateful for the opportunity as it was how I came to meet Miss Darcy."
"And how did you like the grand estate? I have heard many flattering descriptions, but none from one as astute as yourself." Lizzy could hear the ridicule in Mr. Woodworth's comment, and wondered at his strange demeanor.
"I have never seen a home more happily situated. Some may only admire the grandness of the house and elegance of the grounds, but I also found joy from the care that has crafted Pemberley, the devotion of many generations of Mr. and Miss Darcy's family ."
She spoke mainly to the siblings, and was satisfied to see them both pleased by her response. Mr. Woodworth could not have been more opposite on hearing this.
"Surely coming from a modest family though, you found the opulence of the estate, though I sure it may suit some," he said assuredly to Mr. Darcy, " to be overwhelming. I believe I might feel stifled by the responsibility, the history of the place. I'm sure you would agree with me, also, that these old world estates are not conducive in our changing economy."
"Not everyone was raised in the belly of a frigate, Mr. Woodworth!" Lizzy was mortified, despite her jest she could already see the hurt in Miss Darcy's eyes. The affront in Mr. Darcy's posture. She could not think of what to say to better the circumstance, and in her frustration stood, excusing herself to retrieve a refreshment. As she hoped, Mr. Woodworth offered to go with her, and they moved into the other room together.
Before Lizzy could barely register her own offence, Mr. Woodworth spoke. "You are most welcome Miss Elizabeth, I was more than happy to recover you from their company."
"Whatever can you mean by that? I hardly needed recovery from Miss Darcy's company, nor Mr. Darcy. All you have achieved is insulting guests in your brother's house." Lizzy kept her voice low so as not to draw the attention of the others in the room. Mr. Woodworth did so as well.
"I very much doubt I could insult one who already was so scornful of the company he was in. I do believe I have never met a more arrogant and dis-likable creature! And his sister, to see one so young to be aloof and silent, when she could be care-free and full of spirit, like your own dear sister." With this he gestured to where Kitty was laughing and teasing a poor Mr Edmund, with an audience of their Aunt Phillips, the Lucases and Mr. Collins. Lizzy ignored the shameful behavior of her sister and shook her head at Mr. Woodworth.
"You cannot know them, but what you have said offended their lives, home and family. Mr. Darcy may seem arrogant but you are overly presumptuous. Miss Darcy is very reserved, but with those she trusts may possibly as full of spirit as Kitty. It was most badly done, sir."
"No, I cannot know them, but you seem to, very well indeed." Mr. Woodworth muttered, a peculiar look took over his face and he scrutinized her carefully. "How is it that you know them so very well, especially the gentleman, Miss Elizabeth. He must not be long in your acquaintance."
Before Lizzy was to reply though, they were joined by Mrs. Russell and Miss Bingley. "My oh," the former said, "It seems you may be in the middle of a discussion not at all for the supper room."
Miss Bingley sneered at Lizzy, "Well, it can hardly be surprising for Miss Eliza. My dear Mina, I believe you have not yet met the second eldest Bennet daughter."
They were introduced properly and Lizzy took a moment to observe Mrs. Russell, as she felt inspected herself by the lady. Wilhelmina Russell was slight with china-doll coloring and delicate features. She spoke with an air of confidence and willfulness. Reluctant to be as presumptuous as Mr. Woodworth, Lizzy wondered if she were more amiable without the company of her friend.
Miss Bingley took the momentary pause in conversation to smirk, "now where is your dear mother this evening Miss Eliza? I'm so very eager to meet with her once more."
As Lizzy explained about Mrs. Bennet's injury, Mr. Woodworth interjected laughingly, "It was my fault truly, but I just had to have every lady dancing on that night."
The two ladies laughed with him. "Who can blame you dear Mr. Woodworth," Mrs. Russell simpered, "Now we must discuss with you the order for the rest of the evening. If you will excuse us Miss Elizabeth, unless you plan to perform tonight as well."
Lizzy denied such plans and slipped away to join Charlotte as she returned to the drawing room. Mr. Darcy and Miss Darcy had removed to a corner and seemed in deep conversation as the ladies entered, but quickly quieted and resumed their seats. Lizzy dearly wished to apologise to them for Mr. Woodworth's remarks, but worried how it were to appear if she took ownership of them. Instead she introduced Charlotte to Miss Darcy, and they kept to a safe conversation about the latest dress fashions and the likeliness of snow falling in the coming weeks.
The performances resumed; Miss Bingley played a solo piece, and then was accompanied by Mrs. Russell. Several other performances followed and the evening quickly drew to a close. The first coach of the Netherfield party departed directly taking Mr. Darcy, Miss Darcy and Mrs. Annesley away. The second half the of the party lingered, Mr. Bingley remaining long enough to hand Jane into the Bennet carriage, and Mrs. Russell was so involved in conversation with Mr. Woodworth, they hardly noticed the others leaving.
In the quiet of Longbourn, once the rest of the house was asleep, Lizzy sought out Jane.
"This evening I am at ease," Jane reassured her. "I will never be embarrassed by his presence or attentions again, it has been publicly seen that on both sides we are amiable acquaintances."
Though Lizzy did tease her, she was worried. "Jane, I do not wish to see your heart so hurt again."
"You do not think me that weak, truly." Her sister replied, "I know my own heart well now. It is only the heart of another that I cannot answer for." And before Lizzy could tease her again she asked, "and how are you after tonight? It must be strange to have Mr. Darcy around once more."
Lizzy thought carefully of how to honestly respond to her sister. "I too know my own heart. I cannot answer for his." She sighed, and before she would too long dwell on those thoughts, "I wonder what kept Mr. Langley away tonight?"
"Family business, Mr. Edmund did say, though nothing in particular." Jane was thoughtful, " I do hope everything is alright."
"Do take care Jane!" Lizzy repeated, teasing once more, "You may have to answer for three hearts if you don't!"
Several days later, the Bennets were surprised to spy a coach from Netherfield advancing up their drive. Though Mrs. Bennet was still abed, she had insisted on being carried downstairs and into the main room to receive guests. With this news, she was most pleased she was present and fussed over the girls seating arrangements from her place by the fire.
"Oh Jane, do sit there with room next to you. I'm sure Mr. Bingley would find that seat most comfortable. Mary, stay over by the window, you can read in peace without being impolite if you are separate from the rest of the room. And Kitty, do stop that insufferable coughing!" Mrs. Bennet was then most disappointed when the callers turned out to be only the ladies of Netherfield Park; Miss Bingley, Mrs. Russell, Miss Darcy and her companion, Mrs. Annesley.
Lizzy though was pleased to see Miss Darcy and a chance to make amends for the earlier evening, Jane also appeared to be a little relieved. Lizzy was seated nearest Miss Darcy and Mrs. Annesley but struggled to begin a private conversation. Miss Bingley seemed to care little of actually conversing with any of the other Bennets, and any remark Lizzy made towards Miss Darcy, she would seize upon and preach to the room her own views. Eventually though Mrs. Bennet's curiousity about where the gentlemen of their party were captured Miss Bingley's attention, and this topic was easily turned into the history which Miss Bingley and Mrs. Russell shared.
The Bennet ladies learnt that the gentlemen of Netherfield were out shooting, though it was unlikely there was anything left to be shot, and that Mr. Russell was rather inept at the sport. Mr. Russell it appears had know the Bingley's longer than his wife, and it had been through Miss Bingley that the Russells had become acquainted. Mr. Russell, like his father, had been in trade, but was made to retire from this occupation on the insistence of wife. Mrs. Russell was full of praise about the country and it's welcoming neighbourhood, a sentiment that Miss Bingley did not share.
With those ladies happily occupied with an audience, Lizzy quietly spoke with Miss Darcy.
"Have you been out riding again?"
With this the young lady glowed and confided, "yes, my brother is so generous, he has accompanied me each day for a few hours, we have explored a great deal of the nearby lands. Do you ride Miss Elizabeth?"
"I know how to ride," Lizzy disclosed, "but I much prefer to walk. I feel much steadier on two feet than four." They both chuckled at this before Lizzy added, "If you would like to see some of the countryside and not from the back of a horse, I would be happy to show you." Miss Darcy readily agreed.
"How long do you suppose you will all be at Netherfield?" Lizzy wondered aloud, to which Miss Darcy frowned.
"I do not know. I believe my brother and Mr. Bingley have some business they wish to conduct while in the country. I do hope to stay for quite some time though."
For the rest of the visit they discreetly discussed books and music, Lizzy recommended several volumes to Miss Darcy, and given the limited library at Netherfield, she offered to lend Mr. Bennet's copies to her. Though the younger lady was less inclined to reading, she happily accepted the suggestion. Mrs. Bennet could not keep the callers as long as she liked, though before they departed, Miss Bingley invited Jane and Lizzy to dine at Netherfield the following evening.
"We would, of course, invite your sisters as well, but we could not deprive your mother of all their daughters at once." Miss Bingley implored, "It will only be a small dinner, but I do wish to see dear Jane again and I believe Miss Darcy has taken something of an affection to you Miss Eliza. Though please come in a coach this time, I would hate to have you ill again dear Jane!"
The invitation was accepted, and the ladies left.
Mrs. Bennet was in quite a fluster over the invitation, and insisted that their best gowns were improved for the evening. Though both Lizzy and Jane were sure the finery was excessive, they did as their mother bid, for fear of agitating her into fixing the clothes herself. Lizzy stole a few hours in the morning to walk out and consider the thoughts that she had forcibly set aside in the previous days. Why had Mr. Darcy returned? For what business brought him and his friend to the area, and if this occasion did arise purely from business, why did they bring their sisters and the Russells?
How would he be towards her as they dined together that evening? Silent and grave, or critical and dismissive as he had been when she last stayed at Netherfield. Or could it be possible that he would be as eager to please as he had been when they were at Pemberley?
Before she could work her mind into any more circles of questions Lizzy resolved to think no more of him, and interpret nothing for his behavior that night.
Her resolution was matched by the cheerful attitude of Jane as they rode to Netherfield. She was quite satisfied with her expectations - to enjoy an evening with friends and new acquaintances. "I have barely spoken to Miss Darcy," said Jane, "and I am most eager to know Mrs. Russell better too."
"I think you will like Miss Darcy, I believe you share similar temperaments."
The sister's resolve was not to be tested that evening it seemed, for as they arrived and were shown into the house, Miss Bingley informed them that her brother and Mr. Darcy had spent the better part of the day in Meryton with a solicitor from London, and were likely to dine with him that evening.
"It will be something of a ladies dinner, however Mr. Russell will be in attendance, but we shan't let him spoil the conversation with topics of sport or politics."
The meal did last quite a long time though, Miss Bingley had planned an elaborate menu for the small party, and she and Mrs. Russell became very involved in discussions of planning and hosting dinners, of seating arrangements and the best dishes to serve. Lizzy, seated next to Mrs. Russell came to understand that Mr. Russell did not yet own property and so she had only arranged and hosted events with her own mother.
"We hope to find a suitable estate soon though," Mrs. Russell looked to her husband, who nodded in agreement but added little to the actual conversation. "Perhaps somewhere in the south near my own family, a little like Netherfield. Only larger."
"Yes dear, you will need something much larger," Miss Bingley called from the head of the table, "Netherfield is delightful for us now, but I do hope Charles will consider a more sizable property for the first Bingley estate."
Miss Darcy seemed to wanted to say something, Lizzy noticed from the other end of the table, but remained silent. She decided to speak to her on this later if she could.
With the meal concluded, the ladies removed while Mr. Russell remained in the dining room alone with his brandy. The ladies settled in the drawing room, Miss Bingley was quick to dominate conversation with her hopes of the next season in London. Mrs. Russell was polite enough to inquire from Lizzy and Jane on their own experiences of London, whilst their hostess sneered about their relations in town and admitted that she had quite forgot about Jane being in town earlier in the year. The return of Mr. Russell to their company saw a proposal of cards, and Miss Bingley, Mrs. Annesley and the Russells sat down together to play a game of Loo.
Jane, Miss Darcy and Lizzy were engaged in a quiet conversation when a carriage was heard in the drive. Wondering if Miss Bingley had summoned their carriage early, Lizzy considered the evening to be over, however agitated male voices were then heard in the hall before Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy came through the door. Both seemed tired and unusually disheveled, and Lizzy supposed that they were in the midst of an argument, but they stopped upon entering the room and seeing the Bennet sisters.
Once greetings were exchanged, Mr. Bingley apologised, mainly to Jane, "I had not realised we were to have guests this evening, I'm sure if Caroline had informed me thus, Darcy and I would have concluded our meeting earlier."
Mr. Darcy appeared to agree with this, but then he sat on the other side of the room, displeasure emanating from him as he looked to no one nor spoke.
"It was a late arrangement, Charles," Miss Bingley argued, "and I thought it best to not disturb you and Mr. Darcy from your important business."
"I would still liked to have been informed," Mr. Bingley pouted, before seating himself next to Jane and seeming to shed the agitation. Smiling encouraging at her, he implored, "Pray tell me has everything been to your satisfaction?"
Jane's response was so soft he went to ask again, so Lizzy offered, "It has been, thank you Mr. Bingley, as always your sister has been an exceptional hostess."
Appeased by this Mr. Bingley began to extol to the ladies his joy on returning to the neighbourhood, and regret about the lack of sport for shooting over the previous days. Lizzy, unable to resist her curiosity, observed the other gentleman as she listened. He was not at ease, a depth of thought and anxiety so expressed that she felt moved to go to him, to comfort or alleviate. She wished for conversation with no one but himself, and to him she did not have the courage to speak.
The hour soon became late, and so the Bennet ladies removed themselves from Netherfield, their resolutions cast aside and their minds too full of questions to speak.
Author's note: Longest chapter yet! Take that writers block!
Thank you so very much to the following awesome readers for their comments: KylieKyotie, AliciaMo, nanciellen (for the multiples - sorry that Mr Collins was such a party pooper! I like him around for comedic use), JAC-LA, aa2015, gummybear1890, JrTT (you're so sweet! I missed posting and reading other's stories!), ahschung, LovePP, LoveInTheBattleField (thanks for the poems! lol) and those anonymous guests. Especially to that someone (I'm assuming it's the same person?) with the very in-depth comments and rants - I would love to reply but wouldn't want to bore everyone with all the little explanations. (I might suggest creating an account so that I can PM you?)
I'm currently going with a process where I'm working on several chapters at once - drafting a later one while reviewing another. Time-consuming but its working, so hopefully the next chapter will be up by next weekend - yay! Can't wait cause I'm so very excited about where this story is headed now.