For Want Of A Nail

by prhood

Darcy's horse casts a shoe while riding to Pemberley which causes him to miss encountering Elizabeth Bennet who is touring the estate. Thus he is unable to show her his change in behaviour, fails to learn of her improved opinion of him, fails to meet the Gardiners, and fails to learn what happens to Lydia. (Updates on hold for a week or two)

26. Chapter 26

Chapter 25

Gracechurch Street, London

Dinner had been a joyous celebration and questions abounded and such answers as could be supplied, were. When was the wedding to be? – As soon as possible, allowing time for Mr. Darcy's sister and her family to join them from Cornwall. Where was the wedding to take place? – Elizabeth indicated a preference for Wiltshire, and Darcy did not wish to gainsay her on the matter, so Wiltshire it was to be. Had the children been told? - Yes and no. Elizabeth had spoken to her son and daughter; Darcy would speak to his the next morning. Was Elizabeth planning to have a wedding dress made? – Darcy rolled his eyes but still looked a little surprised when Elizabeth responded that she saw no particular need for a new gown as she had several that would serve the purpose and, casting a teasing eye at her betrothed, stated she had no wish to delay her marriage over such a trivial matter. Where were they to go on their wedding trip? – It was Elizabeth's turn to express surprise when Darcy suggested visiting Cornwall – his sister's husband had a cottage in St. Ives which he thought might be suitable. Her expressions of pleasure made clear her approval of the idea. How long would they be gone? – A tentative suggestion from Elizabeth of staying in St. Ives for a fortnight was met with enthusiasm by Darcy. One question did cause some consternation. Who was to care for the children until Darcy and Elizabeth returned from St. Ives? – A quick exchange of glances between Jane and her husband accompanied by a nod from the latter was sufficient to produce an offer from Elizabeth's sister to care for the brood if Oaksley could be put at her disposal, for as the lady exclaimed, "I would not care to speak to my sanity should I be required to have charge of them in the city for a fortnight. I daresay I would have such a case of nerves as to make my father quite believe my mother had returned."

Darcy surprised Elizabeth when he indicated a desire to host a family dinner some three days hence to introduce his Fitzwilliam relations to Elizabeth and her family. "I will call on my uncle and aunt tomorrow to inform them of our engagement and wedding plans – for I know they are in town and do not expect to leave for the country for at least a fortnight."

Mr. Gardiner was not unaware of the difference in stations between Elizabeth's family and Darcy's but could determine no way to circumspectly phrase his question.

"How will your uncle and aunt receive this information, particularly given…?" A slight shrug of his shoulders indicated his oblique reference to the matter of the Stokeses.

Darcy nodded and deliberated a moment or two before responding, "Perhaps that is a question we might discuss later along with another matter of concern."

The Simmonses were clearly surprised at the sombre cast that had suddenly appeared on everyone else's features and he had opened his mouth to inquire into the reason when Mr. Gardiner forestalled him.

"While I cannot express any surprise at your engagement, Lizzy." Said Mr. Gardiner, "I did arrive too late to learn how it came about. Perhaps, sir" and he turned to Darcy with a jovial look, "you might tells us of how you proposed. Did you throw yourself upon my niece's mercy? On bended knee, perhaps? Come sir, we are all ready to be amazed."

To the surprise of Mr. Gardiner and the Simmonses, Darcy, Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner all began to laugh and it was some moments before Darcy had sufficient mastery of himself to address Mr. Gardiner. That he felt comfortable enough in their company to be so relaxed as to drop his usual reserve was a surprise to himself although less so to Elizabeth. She remembered Wickham saying that Darcy could please where he chose to do so. If Darcy had, at one time, limited his circle with whom he was willing to be sociable to those of his own station, she had long since come to realize that he had learned to accept and enjoy a wider range of acquaintances. Her pleasure at seeing him so unreserved amongst her relatives warmed the smile she directed at him. She chuckled at his response to her uncle's teasing.

"I am sorry to disappoint you, sir, but the sad and unfortunate truth is that I did not propose to your niece…and yet we are engaged!"

Mr. Gardiner's eyebrows were saved from disappearing into his hairline only by virtue of the receding of said hairline over the course of the years. Jane Simmons was equally surprised but, perhaps because she knew her sister so well, she arrived at the heart of the matter more quickly than either her husband or her uncle.

"Lizzy, tell me you did not?"

"Did not what, dear sister?"

If the playful look on Elizabeth's features had not illuminated the matter for James Simmons and Mr. Gardiner, their ignorance was alleviated when Jane exclaimed, "You did! You proposed! You sly creature!"

At this point Mrs. Gardiner, Darcy and Elizabeth burst once more into laughter at the incredulous faces of the other two gentlemen. Elizabeth's uncle recovered more quickly as he knew his niece too well to believe it impossible; however, Mr. Simmons required some additional minutes before the improbability of the event caused him to join their merriment. As he said to Darcy shortly thereafter, "I have few doubts that this shall be only the first of many such…hazards that you will suffer – or enjoy? – at the hands of our Lizzy, Mr. Darcy."

Mr. Simmons, as we are to become brothers, I would be pleased if you were to call me, Darcy."

Simmons was pleased but not altogether surprised at this request. He had seen how comfortable Mr. Gardiner and Darcy had become and had noted the familiarity of their address to the other. That it should be offered to him was a desire – and willingness – to merge the families into a closer relationship. His acknowledgement and response requesting Darcy to call him Simmons was cheerfully accepted.

Jane could not but notice her sister's happiness and, giving no thought to her past dealings with Darcy, in her soft voice stated, "As you are to become my brother, you shall – and I insist upon it – call me Jane. Lizzy and I have often, in the past, regretted that we had no brother. "It would please me greatly to be able to call you so, ….Brother."

Darcy could only nod in assent. Elizabeth seeing him at a loss for words, began to speak of her son's reaction to the news of her marriage.

"David was most pleased to learn that he was to have father and is already making plans to show him his favourite places at Oaksley. Of course," she chuckled, "he is also uncertain as to whether having two more sisters is altogether desirable but I convinced him that Ann-Marie would enjoy riding and playing as much as he does."

"I shudder to think," said Darcy, "how much trouble those two will cause their nannies when allowed loose in Pemberley to play 'Hide and Seek'."

"Dear Lord!" shuddered Elizabeth mindful of how active her son could be. "I fear David will be a poor influence on Ann-Marie."

"Pemberley - and we - will survive, Elizabeth. The sound of children at play will bring the house to life. Ann-Marie will not suffer from his enthusiasms."

"You know not of what you speak, sir." Replied his betrothed. "My daughter is, I have been told, possessed of my disposition and I was by no means quiet and restrained in my endeavours."

Mr. Gardiner began to laugh, "I can remember vividly your mother's displeasure at your antics, Lizzy. Between your love of reading, climbing trees and playing out-of-doors with the children in the village, she quite despaired of your ever becoming a proper young lady."

"My dear Uncle, she despaired of that even when I was one and twenty. Her nerves were sorely tested."

The servants had, by this time, entered the room and begun to remove the remains of the meal. Mrs. Gardiner, seeing that everyone had finished eating, suggested that they remove to the parlour for tea and coffee as there were some matters of importance that needed to be discussed.

A quarter hour found them all comfortably situated in the parlour and a cup of their favourite beverage in their possession. The Simmonses and Mr. Gardiner had been told only that the Stokeses had visited and thus had no intimation of the nature of that visit. Mr. Gardiner, who had been kept fully apprised of his niece's dealings with the Stokeses, had no reason to believe it a particularly friendly encounter but nothing in the demeanour of either Elizabeth or Darcy had suggested that it was altogether distasteful. The Simmonses, however, had previously been afforded only the barest of details – Elizabeth had explained her visit to London as involving only some business with her solicitor - and thus were quite unprepared for what was to follow. When Elizabeth described the meeting, the ending of which was corroborated by Darcy, their shock was profound. When Darcy inquired of Gardiner and Simmons as to the implications of the purported scandal for their business, both men became thoughtful. It was several minutes before either responded but, before they could do so, Jane Simmons was countenance was troubled as she began to interrogate her sister, "Why am I just now learning of this, Lizzy? Why have you not told me of this matter?"

Elizabeth's smile was rueful, "I did not intend to hide anything from you, Jane. Please believe that. I have not shared this with anyone apart from our uncle and aunt – not even William."

"But why?

"Indeed, Elizabeth, I am curious as to your answer as well." Stated Darcy.

"I believe," interjected Mr. Gardiner, "that Lizzy did not consider that the matter would develop as it has."

"Yes," continued Elizabeth putting as much sincerity as possible into her words, "The Stokeses have yet to file a suit against me and my solicitor was quite convinced that they would never do so. I saw no reason to worry anyone unnecessarily."

Elizabeth could see that neither Jane nor Darcy were altogether satisfied with this answer but the simple truth was all she had to offer. In reality, the presence of Darcy had quite replaced almost all thoughts of Stokes and the lawsuit. Before either could pursue the matter further, James Simmons chose to return the discussion to the matter of more pressing concern.

"As to the impact on my business, Darcy, I cannot say with any particular surety, but the number and diversity of my customers is such that I cannot believe it to have any noticeable impact. I have five particularly large customers but they have all been associated with my company since my father began it some thirty years ago. They are all reasonable and respectable personages and my reputation is, I am sure, proof against any such slanders." He turned to Elizabeth, "You need not be concerned on your sister's account, Lizzy. Nor on mine. This can touch us very little, if at all."

Mr. Gardiner nodded in agreement. "I believe I can concur with no hesitation that such calumnies will be of little concern for me also."

He glanced at Elizabeth and then Darcy, "We can easily surmise that Longbourn will not be adversely affected but your situation is of concern, Lizzy. How will your neighbours react? And yours, Darcy?"

Darcy looked at Elizabeth to decide who was to respond and she gave him the briefest of nods to cede the initiative to him.

"Elizabeth and I have already spoken of this. She has given me to understand that her reputation in Wiltshire is sufficient to weather any slander of this nature and, after seeing how she was received by Lord and Lady Fairly, I have no reason to doubt that conviction. As for myself," he shrugged, "the Darcy name and reputation will not be harmed and, in truth, I am convinced once society learns what a treasure I have married, the Darcy name will stand higher than before."

He grinned savagely, "As well, I am to speak to my uncle, the Earl of _, tomorrow of my intentions. He will not look kindly on anyone attempting to besmirch the Darcy name and, by implication, the Fitzwilliam name. Not pleased at all! – And my uncle is not loathe at all to make his displeasure known. I fear Mr. Stokes and his son may find their plans have taken a turn they do not like."

"But will your uncle really be disposed to speak out against the Stokes family – another member of the peerage?" inquired Mr. Gardiner. "It seems, I must confess, so very unlikely."

"He will, I am convinced, do so although with some…reluctance perhaps." Affirmed Darcy, "It will be a matter of the family's honour and reputation. He will not be…happy when the matter is laid before him. He is rather particular about distinctions of rank and station and fastidious about preserving the reputation of the Fitzwilliam name. If he had any expectations of my marrying, his aspirations would be that it was to a wife possessed of the connections and status that he believes should be attached to the Darcy name; however, he and I have been at odds on this matter in the past and he knows me too well to believe I can be dissuaded from my course. I believe firmly that his concerns will be assuaged when he meets Elizabeth. I thought we might invite my uncle and aunt to dinner Darcy House to introduce Elizabeth to them. I would have all of you present as well."

Mr. Gardiner raised his eyebrows, "Mayhap that might be asking a bit much of your relations, do you not think? I suggest that the initial meeting include only Elizabeth and my wife as a chaperone."

"I would have Jane there as well!" Elizabeth's tone was emphatic.

As Jane and Mrs. Gardiner were both not adverse to being included, all that was required was to ensure the presence of the earl and his wife.

Jane Simmons had remained thoughtful throughout much of the discussion. If no longer disposed to think only the best of everyone, she was not prepared to to face such implacable antagonism or despicable behaviour from one – Mr. Stokes - who purported to be a gentleman. Her fears for her sister were finally expressed, "Lizzy, you must be on your guard. Such threats as he has made are not to be taken likely. What would he not do?"

Elizabeth turned to her sister, surprised that she would ascribe such motives to anyone. "You believe him capable of harming me, Jane?"

Jane nodded reluctantly. "I learned a valuable lesson some years ago, Lizzy. One who could make such threats cannot be trusted to act reasonably or properly. I cannot imagine what he might do but I would not have you exposed to any risk, if it can be avoided."

"That" interjected Darcy, "is one of the reasons why I believe we should remove to Oaksley for the marriage and do so as soon as possible. Stokes can have no knowledge of our actions and we should be able to secure Elizabeth's safety there more easily than here in Town. I shall obtain a license and we can be wed in a fortnight."

"Why wait so long?" asked Mr. Gardiner, "Surely a faster marriage would be advantageous."

Elizabeth replied before Darcy could do so. "William and I have spoken on this. He wishes to have his sister present and I wish to have my father and Mary present as well. It is unfortunate that Kitty is away with her husband. I doubt she will have returned in time to attend. A fortnight will allow for all the arrangements to be made. I wish for it to be a simple affair."

Elizabeth could see that her sister was not altogether happy and surmised that waiting a fortnight did not satisfy her concerns about Elizabeth's safety. "Do not fret, Jane. I promise to take particular care and…"

"She certainly shall!" growled Darcy. "If I am not with her or Gardiner or Simmons, then she shall be accompanied by two of my best footmen if she ventures out. No, Elizabeth!" for he had seen that lady begin to declaim the necessity for such protection. "You shall not gainsay me on this. We cannot trust that the Stokeses will not venture something, particularly as they now know that you are prepared to face any scandal they might raise. They may believe they have little to lose. No, no! We shall protect you until we marry and that will then provide all the protection you require."

Elizabeth opened her mouth to protest further when her aunt exclaimed, "Lizzy, desist!" she laughed, "I know it offends your sense of independence but surely you see the wisdom of having such protection. As Jane has stated, we cannot know to what extremes these two. . .men will be prepared to go. It is better to chafe at the protection, even should it prove unnecessary, than rue its lack should they attempt something."

Elizabeth considered her aunt's words and realized that her objections were foolish. She then thought to dissemble slightly, "I must express my wonderment at my sister being so concerned at another's bad behaviour. I have never, in the years I have known her, ever heard her speak so poorly about anyone. Is this truly my sister before me?" Elizabeth tone was teasing but her amazement was not feigned.

"I could wish it were all a misunderstanding, Lizzy but such proofs as have been supplied make that impossible to accept." Jane's expression of unhappiness at being faced with such evil behaviour was manifest but having been taught a lesson by George Wickham, she was not disposed to believe the best of another who had given ample evidence of a vicious character.

The hour was growing late; Elizabeth suddenly found that the turmoil of the day had exhausted her. The struggle to remain alert and lively was being lost. Darcy could see her fatigue, and, as he had a number of demanding tasks to perform the next day, chose to take his departure. His carriage was called and within a quarter hour he would be on his way to Darcy House. His leave-taking of Elizabeth was warm and solicitous and he took no little comfort that she embraced him closely in the privacy of the front hall. Her kiss was warm, tender and contained a promise of passion although he could feel that she required his comfort more than desire at the moment. "I love you." was his last word. Her response was to graze his lips with her own and saying very softly "I love you." before gently pushing him in the direction of his carriage. She watched his carriage until it was lost from sight before entering the house.

Darcy House

His sleep had not been undisturbed. Fortunately, it was his dreams of Elizabeth, vivid in their details of their love-making. It had been the most unwelcome of feelings to wake in the morning to find her missing from his bed for so real had been his visions and so complete his satisfaction that he could not help but believe that she had been with him. That in a fortnight he would wake with her beside him him did much to reconcile him to his circumstances.

Washed, clothed and suitably composed he ventured into the nursery to take his breakfast with his daughters. Dismissing the various attendants after they had finished eating, a process which, in his youngest daughter's case also involved a thorough cleaning of face and hands, he claimed their attention.

"Ann-Marie, Helen – I have something to share with you. Something I believe will please you both greatly."

Helen looked at him briefly before returning her focus to the doll which she was struggling to undress. Ann-Marie's gaze was, however, much more attentive and, if he read the signs correctly, hopeful.

"You may have guessed, Ann-Marie, and I hope that your fondest wish has been granted." He said with the happiest smile that his daughter had ever seen, "for I have asked Mrs. Waring to become my wife – and your mother – and she has accepted us."

He had never thought it possible for his daughter to squeal so loudly and with such happiness. She hugged her father, her sister and then demanded to be taken to see her new mother.

"Unfortunately, my dear, I must stay here for your Uncle Richard is to call on me this morning; however, I can send a note to Mrs. Waring to ask if you and Helen might visit her this morning. Shall I?"

As her agreement was immediate, it was but a matter of an hour for a note to be written and a response received, welcoming a visit by the two girls. Darcy had just seen them off in a carriage when his cousin arrived at his front door.

Richard Fitzwilliam had to take but one look at his cousins barely suppressed happiness to discern what had likely happened. Darcy was not one who, when happy, overflowed with mirth; but his countenance, his very manner, bespoke of a overriding happiness to one who knew him well. Fitzwilliam did not believe he had ever seen his cousin so joyful.

"I believe, cousin, that you must have some news to share with me."

"Indeed, I must confess that I have such tidings as I had once never considered possible. Mrs. Waring, Elizabeth, has consented to be my wife." Darcy's grin lit up his features and his excitement was palpable has he paced around his study.

Richard Fitzwilliam was profuse in his congratulations. "She is an excellent woman, cousin. At least she was when I knew her as Miss Bennet. What are her circumstances now? She has married and is now a widow, obviously. How did you meet? Come! Come! Tell me all."

"Allow me a few minutes to marshall my thoughts, Richard." Darcy signalled for his housekeeper to arrange for refreshments, forced himself to sit in his usual arm-chair and began to speak of his meeting with Elizabeth and his efforts to court her.

"I met Elizabeth, quite providentially, at Gunter's. Her manner was such, so warm, that I called on her the next day. You may not credit this, Richard, but i declared my intentions to court her, and court her properly, that same day. We have both admitted our mistakes and put the past behind us. I have been in her company almost daily and never wish to be separated from her again. I decided, the evening that we met you at the theatre, to propose the next day. Yesterday, in fact!" he shook his head, "So much has happened it almost seems unreal at the moment."

"So when are you to marry? I suspect you have no desire for a prolonged engagement."

"Neither of us wishes for that! In fact, there is reason to no wish to delay the marriage."

Richard chuckled and grinned knowingly, "I see…."

Darcy looked at him in confusion, "You see….what?" and then the meaning of his cousin's rather impertinent grin dawned on him and he began to sputter, "You cannot…No!...you are completely wrong in such a surmise!...it is not so! I would never…" he finally regained control of his thoughts and rather angrily stated, "You are completely wrong. Mrs. Waring and I have not acted improperly…well, not that improperly, at least." The last was said with a rueful smirk as he remembered the fervency of their embraces the previous afternoon.

"Then what is the reason for the haste to be leg-shackled, cousin?"

"It involves a gentleman by the name of Sebastian Stokes and his son who, it seems, wishes to force Mrs. Waring into marriage so as to gain control of the estate left to her son by her husband. An estate which she manages on his behalf."

Richard Fitzwilliam straightened in his chair. "You have all my attention, Darcy. Please do not spare my sensibilities. Tell me all."

Darcy snorted, "You do not possess any sensibilities, Richard. Fifteen years in the regulars quite destroyed them all."

"True. True. So you may relate all the grisly details with no qualms for your listener."

And Darcy proceeded to do just that.

"It apparently began," he said, "when Waring's sister and her husband, Sebastian Stokes by name, travelled all the way from Manchester to Wiltshire to protest Waring's intention to marry Elizabeth."

"Protest!" exclaimed Fitzwilliam, "Had they made her acquaintance?"

"Not to my knowledge."

"What could they hope to achieve by it?"

"From what Elizabeth's understands – Waring apprised her of the details afterwards – they believed her to be a fortune-hunter, interested in marrying to gain access the Waring's estate and fortune." Darcy could see that his cousin was about to comment further and he continued before he could be interrupted, "Elizabeth was told by Waring that he suspected that his brother's own motives were mercenary – that they believed he had, or would, name their son as his heir."

"Was his estate so grand then?"

Darcy nodded his head, "It is a very respectable property. Elizabeth says it has an annual income of a little less than five thousand a year; moreover, it appears that Waring was extremely modest in his expenses and with his mother's dowry had saved some forty thousand pounds."

Fitzwilliam whistled, "'Tis a very tidy sum!"

"Half was settled on Elizabeth and the balance reserved for a second son or daughters. Elizabeth's daughter has a dowry of about twenty thousand and her son, the estate – Oaksley."

Fitzwilliam shrugged, "An admirable situation to be sure but I fail to see a problem."

"That my dear cousin is because your character is better than that of Sebastian Stokes."

Fitzwilliam looked at his cousin quizzically, awaiting an explanation.

"Yes, well it appears that Waring's will not only did not bequeath anything to the Stokeses, it established Elizabeth as her children's guardian, along with a neighbour who was a close friend of Waring and specifically and explicitly excluded any of the Stokeses from being named a trustee for the children or estate. Elizabeth was also made responsible for managing the estate, a task she apparently learned with Waring's assistance and has done quite competently."

"I still fail to see a problem, Darce."

"That is solely because you are too impatient to allow me to finish." Darcy paused only briefly before continuing, "Stokes apparently was not disposed to give up his desire to gain control of the estate and almost to the day that Elizabeth's year of mourning was concluded, Nelson Stokes, the son, appeared and made her an offer of marriage which," and he chuckled with little true mirth, "was apparently as deficient as that made by our Aunt Catherine's hapless rector, Mr. Collins, when he proposed to Elizabeth some years earlier."

"She obviously refused."

"Indeed! She said it was truly a most ridiculous proposal. In any event the Stokeses were not prepared to allow the matter to rest and about a month later she received a letter from the senior Stokes which was most abusive and indicated that he was prepared to take legal action on the grounds she was not a suitable trustee or guardian for the children or the estate." He laughed and Fitzwilliam could see his cousin had enjoyed what had come next.

"Elizabeth, of course, consulted a solicitor and he found the letter to be so ludicrous that his response was to invite Stokes to bring the case forward for he had no doubt of a favourable decision nor that the result would leave Stokes looking very foolish. I might add that of all this I was quite ignorant when I entered the home of Elizabeth's relatives to make my addresses yesterday."

"And?"

"I entered to find Elizabeth speaking very angrily to two gentlemen who I was to learn were Sebastian Stokes and his son. I heard them threaten Elizabeth and entered as she dismissed them from the house. I do not know what might have occurred had I not happened on the scene. A footman was beside the door but not in a position to intercede and although he looked ready to do so, he had not been called for."

Darcy relaxed back in his chair and concluded his explanation by saying, "The presence of the footman and myself was sufficient to persuade the Stokeses to desist and, after they were shown out of the house, Elizabeth and I became engaged."

Fitzwilliam looked at his cousin carefully. He could not be sure but for some reason he suspected that there was more to the story of the engagement than had been vouchsafed to him, but another matter was of more immediate concern.

"And what was the threat being made by Stokeses?"

"Stokes proposed to make known, to spread as widely as possible, the particulars of the ruination of Elizabeth's sister, Lydia Bennet. He appeared to believe that the scandal would tarnish the reputations of Elizabeth and her relations and that she would marry his son to prevent it from happening. Elizabeth was quite firm in disabusing him of such a notion. Quite firm." He smiled, "She told him she would rather see her reputation besmirched than marry into a family possessed of such a vicious character."

Fitzwilliam nodded slowly, his thoughts on the implications for his family.

"Pater will not be happy to learn of the prospect of a scandal attached to Mrs. Waring." He warned Darcy.

"I had already reached that conclusion, Richard; and it matters not."

Fitzwilliam's eyebrows rose.

Darcy was emphatic, "I shall marry Elizabeth with or without your father's blessing. He knows me too well by now to think otherwise. He will have no choice but to support me despite any misgivings he will most likely harbour. I am not so naïve as to believe that he will welcome the situation. I am sure he will be most seriously displeased – at first - but I am convinced that he will, in fact, approve of Elizabeth – as will your mother – once they have made her acquaintance."

"When do you plan to inform them?"

"This afternoon." Darcy glanced at his watch, "I have sent a note requesting to call on them both at one this afternoon."

"I shall accompany you. I can, at the very least, speak to the worthiness of the Elizabeth Bennet that I knew in the past."

Your assistance will be quite welcome, cousin." Darcy rose and stretched, "You must, however, excuse me for a few hours as I have some correspondence to attend to. I must inform Georgiana and Judith's parents and I must also provide some directions for my solicitor as to the marriage settlements.

Richard nodded, "I shall meet you at my parent's home at one then." He turned to go, "It is reassuring to know that Mrs. Waring's situation is much improved upon that of Miss Bennet."

"Indeed – much improved. She need marry only if she wishes to do so and I feel myself quite blessed to have gained her affections." He paused for several moments, "You know, eight years ago I thought that Elizabeth Bennet represented all that was beautiful. The Elizabeth I am to marry now is so much more that I can hardly credit my good fortune."

"Her dowry and position will, I believe, lessen my father's concern, at least somewhat."

Darcy shrugged, "it is immaterial to me. I would marry her if she had not a shilling." He paused for a moment, "Before you leave, I plan to invite Elizabeth and her relations to dine with me two nights hence. I intend to invite your father and mother and would be pleased if you and Cecily would join us."

"I do not believe we have any engagements for that evening but I shall send a note to confirm that we will attend." And at this point Richard Fitzwilliam took his leave and Darcy directed his footsteps to his study to address his correspondence.

Gracechurch Street

Jane Simmons was…not worried exactly. No she would not describe her feelings so. She was…concerned. She had thought she knew her dearest sister's feelings quite well and yet that knowledge had been overset yesterday. She certainly had not been blind to the attentions being paid to Elizabeth by Mr. Darcy, nor had she forgotten that Elizabeth had revealed that her opinion of him had much improved, but she had obviously been blind to the depth of her sister's regard for the gentleman. She admitted to herself that while she had noted these attentions, she had been distracted by other matters to give them little concern and chastised herself for the complacency that had made the oversight possible. An engagement was to be expected. That was the purpose of a courtship. But so quickly? Elizabeth had been very circumspect in her revelations and had not vouchsafed to reveal more than her opinion of him had improved significantly. Nevertheless, to move from dislike to an affection strong enough to enter an engagement seemed so very precipitous.

Before he called on her, Jane thought that Elizabeth still disliked Mr. Darcy as much as she had eight years ago after his proposal in Hunsford. It was difficult for her to reconcile the knowledge that Elizabeth had not held him in great esteem when last they discussed him, with the fact that she was now prepared to marry the gentleman. Of his affections there could be no doubt. Of her sister's, Jane was confused. She could not comprehend how such a change could have come about or how the depth of Elizabeth's regard could have been hidden from her so successfully. Why she was disturbed, she did not know. Perhaps it was only the shock of learning of the engagement and having been so blind to her sister's inclinations.

And so, here she was, approaching Gracechurch Street to call on her sister and, hopefully, come to a clearer understanding. However, when she entered the house, she was surprised to learn that the Darcy children were visiting. After ascertaining that they were in the garden behind the house, Jane made her way quickly to join them. She smiled and stopped in the doorway to observe Elizabeth with the four children. The two youngest were happily seated on her sister's lap, and the two older children were sitting next to her on a bench. As Jane stepped into the garden, she heard Elizabeth regaling them with one of her famous princess and the dragon stories Jane's own children loved so well.

"… and Squire David, took Excalibur and plunged into the dragon before it could reach Lady Ann-Marie. The dragon was terribly frightened and …"

"Was it dead?' piped David.

"No indeed, but it was quite frightened and the wound hurt so much that it decided to fly away. Squire David and Lady Ann-Marie now had an even bigger problem. How were they to get out of the cave and go home? Fortunately, Lady Ann-Marie was a clever little girl and had marked her path into the cave and they carefully began to find their way out."

"What did she mark it with?" asked Ann-Marie.

"Bread crumbs." Replied Elizabeth.

Jane took another few steps into the garden meaning to sit herself unobtrusively as possible until the story was complete but Elizabeth first noticed her approach and the children immediately thereafter.

"Aunt Jane!" called David, "Mama is telling us a story about dragons and swords and…and…"

"Caves and goblins!" added Ann-Marie.

"So I gather. Please continue, Lizzy. I should not wish to interrupt the story." Laughed Jane.

Some five minutes later, the story concluded after several misadventures that required trees to be climbed, streams forded and more dragons avoided or frightened away. The children were then consigned to the care of their nannies and Elizabeth sighed, caught her sister's eye, rose and waved her forward. They removed themselves to another bench some few yards away from where the children were playing. Elizabeth sighed once more, "They are at that particular age where learning to play with another child can be…difficult. Jane laughed, "If one was to take my children as an example, it does not get a great deal easier as they get older." She looked at the two children playing. "Truly, they do not appear to me to be particularly contentious."

"I suppose they are not. I just hope that we can create a harmonious family."

Jane laughed, "From the scene I just observed, you are certainly on the right path. However, while I doubt you will ever have to suffer the discord that characterized Longbourn, Lizzy, to expect harmony with a child like my namesake may be too optimistic. She does seem to have your character after all and you were ever the boisterous child." She looked over at the two youngest and then added, "I suspect our mother would take some solace in that fact. She might consider it a fitting revenge."

"True, and Fitzwilliam assures me that Helen is of a similar disposition. I suspect my life will have no shortage of frantic moments." She paused cheerfully, "I will have to teach them how to climb trees properly so that they do not fall and break any limbs."

Jane began to chuckle at the thought but the mention of Mr. Darcy brought her purpose to the forefront of her thoughts.

"Lizzy, I…" she struggled to find the proper words for she did not want to offend her sister.

Elizabeth turned to gaze at her, surprise written over her features for it was clear that, whatever Jane wished to discuss, it was a matter which discomposed her exceedingly.

"Yes?" she prompted.

"Lizzy, I was quite….unprepared to hear that you and Mr. Darcy were engaged. That you had proposed to him, in fact."

"Your surprise at my proposing is understandable, but why would our engagement be unexpected? Surely you could have seen how much I enjoyed his company?"

"But you disliked him so thoroughly eight years ago! Of course I saw that your regard for him had improved but I did not realize that your affections had improved so greatly. I simply had not expected that you held him in such regard as to consider marriage so soon after making his acquaintance again."

Elizabeth shook her head in dismay. While she and Jane had been the closest of confidantes for much of their lives, after the Hunsford proposal, she had been less forthcoming. Then, after Lydia disappeared, their lives diverged and their opportunities to be intimate had diminished. And somewhere along the way, the sisters had somehow stopped sharing confidences as they had done before marrying. Perhaps it was the natural result of marriage itself as her husband had been the one to whom she turned in such instances, not her sister. She suspect the same was true for Jane. It was natural and just.

"I do hold him in considerable esteem, Jane. It was not the work of a minute or an hour, nor can I point to a particular occasion and say that this was when my regard developed, but I now believe him to be the finest man I have ever known. In the years before I married AnthonyI gave much thought to Mr. Darcy and to my…misconceptions and misunderstandings. I came to….wish that I had given myself a chance to know him better for his letter and my tour of Pemberley showed a man of considerable merit. And one I am now pleased to marry. Very, very pleased."

"Then I am glad to hear it! I know that your affections for Anthony increased during your marriage. That was obvious to anyone who knew you well and saw you together with him. But it was not so when you married although I believe you did respect him a great deal. There was, I suspect, a good deal of prudence behind your decision to marry then."

"Jane!" interrupted Elizabeth, "I must stop you now. I will admit that I did not discount the prudence of a marriage to Anthony; but I assured you, did I not - and I will repeat it now - I held Anthony in considerable affection when we married. I would not have accepted him otherwise."

"And you feelings for Mr. Darcy?"

"You will think me shameless, Jane, for I know your character all too well. But I must confess that to wait for a fortnight to be his wife is almost too much to bear with equanimity. I would marry him tomorrow if it were possible."

"Then I am pleased." replied Jane as she embraced her sister. "Very well pleased, indeed!"

Severn House, London

Richard was waiting for him outside Severn House. They entered and, learning where the earl and his wife were expecting them, made their way to that room directly. Long familiarity with the house and its inhabitants did much to alleviate any unease that Darcy might have felt and, while he hoped that his uncle and aunt would accept his choice graciously, he would not be surprised at any initial reluctance or even distaste. If either of the latter arose, he knew it would be a product of having to deal with having their aspirations once more denied. Their eventual acceptance of Judith had not, in any fashion, lessened their hopes that he would make a more advantageous second marriage.

The earl and his wife were comfortably ensconced in the small family sitting room and the countess was in the act of pouring a cup of coffee for her husband when her son and nephew entered the room.

"We did not expect to see you, Richard." said his mother, her curiosity sparked by the unplanned visit by her son who leaned over and bestowed a kiss on her cheek.

"When I learned of Darcy's visit and its purpose, I invited myself to accompany him."

The earl's eyebrow's rose. He waved the two younger men towards a chair; however, only Fitzwilliam chose to sit. Darcy took up a position facing his uncle and aunt. The earl pre-empted his opening words.

"Welcome nephew. I must assume from the request to meet with us and your behaviour that you have news you wish to impart. And news of some import, I now suspect from your manner."

"Indeed, Uncle, Aunt. I do but before I speak to that matter there is another on which seek your. . .advice, perhaps is the most appropriate word."

The earl's eyebrow rose once more. His nephew was not in the habit, in recent years at least, of seeking advice from him.

Darcy had intended to announce his engagement and then inform his uncle of the problem with the Stokes family; however, as he made the short trip to Severn House, he wondered if his uncle might be more forthcoming about the Stokeses if the subject was broached before any announcement.

"Indeed. I had occasion to encounter two gentlemen yesterday, a Sebastian Stokes and his son. He is related to the Earl of _, a brother, I understand. Do you know of the family? I cannot recall ever hearing of them."

His uncle frowned and his aunt made a moue of distaste.

"Percival Stokes, the eighth Earl of _." His uncle literally spat the words.

"I can assume from your reaction that you do not regard them highly." responded Darcy.

"What have you to do with that family, Darcy?" his uncle's tone expressed some concern.

"Before I address that question, I would like to know why you both have reacted so strongly."

His uncle replied slowly after a moment's thought, "I am not surprised you have heard little of them, hiding away at Pemberley as you are wont to do. It is not that they are particularly bad but the current earl displays a want of sense that is out of keeping, in my opinion, with the position he holds." He smiled ruefully, "In many respects he reminds me of my sister, Catherine, although with even less sense, if that is possible to believe."

"I find it hard to comprehend that simple foolishness would cause such distaste."

"The family" said the earl, "is not known for any particular dissolute behaviour; however, they possess a remarkably ill-deserved sense of entitlement and are, as well, very covetous. I remember an instance where one of the late earl's sons took a fancy to a young gentlewoman with a handsome dowry. He pressed his suit, made an offer of marriage and was quite incensed when it was turned down. The young lady's family was quite respectable but that appeared to hold little weight with the gentleman concerned and his father was enlisted to press the match. When that failed, the Stokeses made it their business to disparage the girl and her family far and wide.."

The countess interjected, "She was a fine girl but the gossip quite damaged her reputation for a year or two. She eventually married - and married well - but their treatment of her was infamous."

"I suspect it also made other families quite reluctant to consider or reject a suit by a member of the Earl of _'s family." suggested Fitzwilliam.

The earl nodded, "I hope, Darcy, you are not considering aligning yourself, and us, with that family?"

Darcy snorted, "I can assure you that i am considering no such thing, uncle." He wondered at his uncle's reaction. While the incident mentioned was obviously distasteful, it did not appear to warrant the degree of dislike that was being shown; however, that was a matter he would explore later.

"Then might you relieve our anticipation and inform us as to the purpose of this meeting?"

"Certainly. Uncle, aunt, I am pleased to announce that I will be marrying a young woman that I have admired for many years."

Neither the earl nor his wife were astonished at the news. Their speculations had centred on this possibility, and had been supported by one or two references in the newspapers' society pages of their nephew's recent activities.

"Is this the woman that you have been seen with lately? The theatre, if I remember correctly." asked the countess.

"It is."

"Who is she? What is her background? The society pages simply called her Mrs. W."

"Her name is Mrs. Waring, a widow whose husband died over a year ago. I knew her some eight years ago as Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

"I met Miss Bennet at that time, father. She was visiting a friend whose husband was Aunt Catherine's rector. A very fine young woman." Fitzwilliam cast a teasing glance at his cousin, "And one I would have pursued myself had she possessed an adequate dowry."

Darcy scowled at his cousin who only grinned mockingly at him; however, his attention was quickly reclaimed by his aunt's next comment.

"There is some connection to the Stokes family?" His aunt's concern was obvious.

The earl was aghast, "Please assure me that no connection exists. I would not wish to have us tied to them. Such a connection would be abhorrent!"

"Uncle, please allow me to finish." Darcy overrode his uncle's diatribe before it could gain momentum. "Mrs. Waring is, I concede not of our circle; however, she is not deficient in terms of fortune nor does she lack connections. She is – and I cannot emphasize this too greatly – my choice for a wife and is an estimable woman in every particular. I am honoured that she is willing to marry me. There is a connection to the Stokes family but not one she wishes to further. Quite the reverse actually. I understand she and her late husband were estrranged from his brother."

His uncle subsided, grunting with some relief at Darcy's last statement. He had, once before, learned to his regret that his nephew was not one to be dissuaded from a course he had determined upon. He could, however, hope to extract more information about the young woman his nephew was to marry.

"What are her circumstances?"

Darcy spent several minutes explaining as succinctly as possible, his past relationship with Elizabeth and her current situation. He could see his aunt and uncle visibly relaxing as he laid before them her circumstances. The connection to trade was received, if not happily, at least with equanimity when the respectability of the individuals was assured.

"I see no particular problem with anything you have related, Darcy. I wonder at your raising the matter of the Stokes family?"

"There is one matter, uncle, that I must lay before you and it is the reason for inquiring about the Stokes." His gaze took in the inquiring faces of his aunt and uncle and wondered how distasteful they would find the revelations he would make. A quarter hour later the deed was done and he took considerable consolation in the disgust portrayed by his relations as the situation of Elizabeth's sister and the machinations of the Stokeses was revealed.

"I commend your young lady, Nephew, for refusing him under such circumstances!" exclaimed the countess. "She showed considerable fortitude."

The earl considered his nephew carefully. "You are resolved then, to marry this woman?" When Darcy nodded firmly, he continued, "Then I suppose we must do what ever is necessary to suppress or deflect such. . .distasteful gossip. Allow me to think on it. It would not bother me a great deal to act on your behalf. I daresay the Fitzwilliam name alone will be sufficient to stifle such a rumour." And there was a quick expression of what Darcy considered satisfaction that crossed his uncle's features as he declared firmly, "do not doubt it, Darcy, I shall be quite pleased to assist in this endeavour. Quite pleased!"

Fitzwilliam chose to intercede at this point, "I believe, father, that you and my mother should meet Mrs. Waring. I understand that Darcy has planned to introduce her to you at a dinner two nights hence. Cecily and I will be attending."

"When do you propose to marry?" asked the countess.

"A fortnight from now. In Wiltshire."

"Ah, so soon then" said the countess thoughtfully, "I believe we should meet Mrs. Waring immediately. Have her come to dinner tonight, Nephew!"

Both Darcy and the earl were rendered speechless for several moments. Darcy recovered first. "Tonight?"

"Indeed. If we are to know her, and under such circumstances, it is best not to waste any time."

"I believe she will want to have her aunt accompany her for propriety."

The countess waved her hand dismissively. "That matters not! At seven then. I shall write her a note immediately, if you will supply her address."

"I had planned to travel there when I leave here. Ann-Marie and Helen are visiting her as we speak. I will act as messenger."

"So your children have met her?" The earl asked. "How do they get on?"

"Indeed they have! Ann-Marie is overjoyed to have a mother. She likes Elizabeth exceedingly. She almost told me to propose," Darcy laughed.

The earl grunted."That is well!"

The countess smiled, "Four children under the age of five. Pemberley shall be a lively place."

Darcy and Fitzwilliam remained no longer than it took for the countess to write the invitation. Her husband took the opportunity to discover more about the woman his nephew was to marry and found nothing he learned to be objectionable.