Part 3: Reflection, Chapter 15


Richard and O'Connor, on Matlock house mounts this time, rode out to meet Darcy from the Matlock stables, as he waited out front on Atticus.

"Morning Darcy. Here we are, ready for the ride."

"You surprise me. I honestly thought I'd not find you ready, and have to go in and hurry you along."

"You'll have to get up a damn sight earlier to catch an old soldier out, Darcy."

"Is that a challenge? You know I'm up for it."

"No. No! Don't take it that way. I've had enough of being woken while it is still dark by cannon shot to want to do it to please your sense of fun."

"Only joking. Anyway, in light of your recent recovery, I've planned to take all day to get to Rosings, although arriving before the light fades. If this agreeable to you?"

"No need to moddle-coddle me Darcy. Go as hard as you like. Although I am surprised, if that is your view, you've not come in the coach."

"Ah. Georgiana needed it. She's sent Wilkins off to Ramsgate to fetch Elizabeth to London."

"Has she? And you've approved this?"

"Yes, why would I not?"

"I understand you allowing it in Ramsgate, but hosting Elizabeth in London? Are you willing to deal with the gossip that might arise? You know how women talk."

"With Georgiana not out, she'll have little visitors. Even Caroline would not break that far from convention to come without being invited, and I've made it know I'll not to be there. So I think it will be safe. Anyway, Bingley's promised to be around to keep an eye on things."

"Hoping that Elizabeth will have her sister to visit at some stage?"

"Actually it's better than that. It was even Georgiana's idea, but she's having both Bennet sisters to stay while I'm away. Bingley will have to encounter Jane at some point. If I've not heard anything after a fortnight, I'll get Bingley to promise to take Georgiana and her guests somewhere… Not sure, maybe the Tower or a picnic at Kew Park, doesn't matter really, as long as it is something he can't get out of, and leaves him in Miss Bennet's company for a while. I can rely on Elizabeth working it out, and keeping Georgiana otherwise occupied. I'm sure if we leave them to it, they'll sort it out. Both seem very much in love, even with everything that's gone on."

"Congratulations, that's a plan worthy of being mine. Pity I can't come up with something for myself."

"You don't half rate your abilities. Hold it, what about your plans?"

"Nothing Darcy. Nothing at all. How was your trip out west?"

Darcy noticed how Richard changed subject abruptly, and thought, you'll keep, while actually answering, "Nothing like I expected. Henry, or Baron Trentham as he insisted on being called, and his wife… I don't know, I was expecting… actually I don't know what I was expecting… certainly not hospitality, from his reply to my overture of friendship, but what I got… it's hard to explain. He was friendly enough I suppose, well, apart from insisting on his title, but I suppose it is his way of demanding a sign of respect from the locals. I'd like to tell him that respect is not something you can demand, but I'm sure he'd not listen. I don't know… he's different, very different."

"How so?"

"I found I had to watch everything I said. He kept seeing insult and disparaging comment when I'd not meant anything of the sort. I spent a good deal of the apologising for things I didn't say. It even spoiled the subjects we could debate. I suppose I was expecting what happened with Isaac, you know, like we had not been apart at all, but it was not so. It was the same with Henry's wife, Alexandra. She was as beautiful and exotic as I remembered her, although their isolation seems to have embittered her even more than Henry. I didn't see a happy marriage. Both seem to blame the other for their very isolation, rather than working with it to find happiness as the Featherstones did. But I hope maybe to invite them to London or, better, to Pemberley. Maybe I should invite Isaac as will. Maybe he will be able to talk to Henry when I couldn't."

"And risk your own reputation? That's taking what was an old friendship too far Darcy."

"That's the thing Richard. It shouldn't be an old friendship. We should still be friends. Had I stood by him, maybe others would have as well, and he'd not be in this position. So I contributed to his isolation, so it is up to me to try to rectify it, no one else has bothered to."

"You take too much on yourself."

"No. No I don't. My reputation can withstand a little controversy, although best not to mention it to Aunt Catherine. I suppose that is just thing another not to mention to add to the list."

"I wonder how Aunt Catherine is? Father said she's written recently she's finally found a worthy recipient of the living at Hunsford, apparently it's the newly frocked Reverend Collins."

"Has she? I do wonder what he'll be like."

"Who knows, but we're bound to meet the lucky gentleman before long."

"Can't wait." Said Darcy sarcastically before changing the conversation as they negotiated their way out of London. Darcy tried to casually drop the word 'plan' into the conversation where he could, hoping it would get Richard to talk about what he so quickly downplayed, but to no avail.


Even with the leisurely progress (so slow that even the cart with their portmanteau had already arrived), with a drawn out break at about mid-day and an arrival an hour from sunset, Darcy noticed that Richard strongly favoured his injured leg when he hopped down. Darcy was more grateful than normal that as his Aunt was a poor traveller, so she readily accepted that they would not be available for a formal dinner, which was the usual fare at Rosings when they were there over Easter. Why his Aunt persisted in this silly show of ostentation Darcy could not understand. It was not like Darcy didn't know that this was not the normal occurrence, he helped sort out the accounts every year, and knew to a penny what was spent normally on dinners. But this was yet another example of Lady Catherine's deliberate blindness to reality or an opinion that did not suit her.


Later that night, the two men sat in the library after having a light meal in the breakfast room. It looked an impressive library, with ornate bookcases full of what appeared to be expensive books. But Darcy knew better, firstly, Sir Lewis bought this library as part of Rosings Park, along with much of the furniture, and the impressive paintings of what most assumed was his ancestors from the estate of William Carey, the eighth and last Baron of Hunsdon. Darcy's father had explained, as a form of lesson to his son about the difference between real value and the appearance of it, that there had been numerous gaps in the shelves at the time of purchase, as the best books had been sold off separately, leaving only the low valued one with the estate. To make up for this loss Sir Lewis had filled them with book lots purchased at auction, chosen entirely by the elaborateness of their bindings, rather than any consideration of the content. So the library was mostly for show, containing large numbers of beautifully bound if incredibly dry books of sermons, usually published to satisfy the vanity of the preacher himself or their patron.

This carried on with the paintings on the wall, all those still here in the library and a good number of those in the more public areas of the house were of the various Carey's by blood or marriage. Although to Lady Catherine credit, she had replaced the paintings in the most obvious locations with copies of various Matlock ancestors. When he was younger, Darcy had made a point of trying to find out the names of those Carey's still hung about the place, as Sir Lewis had directed his staff to remove the name plates from most of them.

But, Darcy supposed, he Uncle was in reality no different than many self-made men of his age. The unwanted younger son of a gentleman, he was sent off to India to live out his life as a functionary of the British East India Company. But success followed success, and eventually his Uncle was intimate with the Moghuls and Maharajas themselves, joining them to hunt tiger from elephant back, indulging in exotic meals in sumptuous palaces and becoming very wealthy in his own right. Darcy recalled many nights sitting here listening to stories of jungle treks, perilous river crossings and close calls with the vicious wildlife of the Indian sub-continent. It seemed to a small boy, from his Uncle's stories, that the entire sub-continent was trying to rid itself of its human inhabitants. Thinking back on it, his Uncle had more adventures that were likely possible in several lifetimes, so Darcy now wondered how many of the tales of personal encounters with deadly cobras, vicious crocodiles as large as small boats, rampaging elephants or man-eating tigers were taken from others. Although there was no denying the size and fierceness of the trophies adorning a walls in the billiards room.

But while surviving all these native animals, and the swarms of thugees and other bandits, tribesmen bent on revenge or any number of short local wars the swirled around India, his Uncle amassed a small fortune, and returned to England. First to buy a title, then an estate, and finally marriage to a lady with all the connections his Uncle did not have, and could not obtain. Before, ironically, dying from apoplexy bought about by a surfeit of overindulgence in the very things his fortune provided.

While Sir Lewis's title was only a knighthood and thus not hereditary, it did have the benefit of then not being tied to the estate, allowing his cousin Anne to inherit it, which at least gave her some prospects, even if it was only for her inheritance, if only once his Aunt finally could be convinced that he was not going to marry her himself. Darcy had tried to hint, and even was quite blunt, as far as good manners allowed, that he had no truck with her delusion that their betrothal was due to an agreement between his mother and her when they were both babes. He knew this was entire false, his mother had never spoken of it and his father, once Darcy had come of age, had specifically refuted it, later one night when it had been hinted at by his Aunt during a visit. Notwithstanding this, there had been a few drunken moments in the past where he had contemplated marrying Anne. If only from pity to rescue her from her mother, taking her off to Pemberley while leaving Lady Catherine here, but they had not occurred often, and thankfully not when there could be any possibility of acting on them.

So once he married Elizabeth (not if, as Darcy refused to contemplate failure to win her, even if it was a campaign lasting years) which seemed the only way to convince his Aunt he was not going to marry Anne, maybe Lady Catherine would cast her eyes elsewhere. Darcy hoped, for Anne sake, her mother was not the sole arbiter of suitability of her suitor, as Darcy was well aware how easily she was taken in by those that deferred to her and flattered her sense of importance. It needed to be someone with enough rank or connections to satisfy Lady Catherine, but sensitive to Anne's frail health not to want too much from her, maybe a widower with children? No, Anne's mother would not allow that, as he knew she was afraid of Anne passing away as the distant cousin that was next to inherit would push his claim for the estate, something he could not do with Anne as heir apparent. But someone with title would want children to pass this on to, and would possible make demands that would put Anne at great risk. Having to consider this was giving Darcy a headache. How easy would it have been for Sir Lewis to have appointed his father-in-law, the late Earl as executor than Darcy's father, thus this would all be his Uncle, the current Earl's, problem not his. But there was some argument soon after Sir Lewis's and Lady Catherine's marriage that caused an estrangement. But it was not talked of, so Darcy had only the vaguest idea of what it was, something about his title or estate. Although funnily enough Lady Catherine had sided with her husband, Darcy would have assumed she'd have taken the side of her noble family, but it showed she did take her vows serious indeed.

Realising that he'd sat and said nothing for a considerable period of time, He looked over at Richard, the only other occupant of the library. His cousin was sitting there staring into the fire, a snifter of brandy still almost full in his hands. While it was a nasty thought, Darcy realised that Richard could prove to be the perfect substitute to replace him as the object of Lady Catherine's matrimonial machinations. It would be a hard sell, but maybe if he worked at it slowly, prepared the ground so to speak this year, and then make it clear next year that he would never consider marrying his cousin, while having Richard sitting off to the side to soften the blow. It had the added bonus of keeping Rosings Park in the family, even if Anne was never well enough to bear a child. And didn't Richard always talk of needing to marry an heiress of at least fifty thousand pounds? Rosings Park was no Pemberley, but it earned more than that sum invested could already, and with the right management it would earn a good deal more. That might just be enough to compensate for having Lady Catherine as a mother-in-law! Darcy sat back to think of the best way to determine if his cousin would contemplate the possibility without putting his back up, but nothing that wasn't an immediately obvious ploy came to mind.

Now a little frustrated with himself for having run out of ideas, Darcy realised that the two of them had been sitting together for what must be nearly an hour and, other than the initial banter when he poured them both a brandy, the remaining time had been silent. Darcy never minded silence, and at times preferred it, but this was very uncharacteristic of Richard. He couldn't normally sit for more than ten minutes without starting a conversation about something, even when Darcy had told his cousin he needed time to think. Come to think of it, Richard had been like this for a while now. His letters from Ramsgate certainly did not hint of any melancholy, in fact they were generally very buoyant and cheerful, except for the last letter, informing Darcy of his return to London, and then he'd been like this since. Something happened at Ramsgate, that was certain, but Darcy had no idea what, or was it who? Could Richard have also got close to Elizabeth? Or did he also offer, as unlikely as that seemed, or at least think of offering but shied off? Is that the plan that Richard hinted had not worked? Would she consider it, if he did make an offer?

The sudden pain this realisation caused, that Elizabeth could choose another man, was like being shot. Oh God! No! Darcy's first reaction was that he'd kill anyone that got in the way of his own happiness. Realising his heart was racing and fists were clenched in rage, Darcy took the time to calm himself down. After that initial violent emotional response, Darcy was able to think more rationally about it. Maybe his cousin was a rival, maybe not. But, remembering the conversations with Grandmother Fitzwilliam and what he had read, isn't love about letting go of your own desires and wanting what was best for the other person? Add to that the lesson he must not treat her like a possession, but as a person in her own right, with thoughts, dreams, desires and choices of her own. So if she chose another, even someone that was as close to him as his cousin, he must accept it. But, resolved Darcy to himself, that did not prevent him making the most of any opportunity to plead his own case until that decision was made. Even if that meant he and his cousin would be rivals. And may the best man win, and while Darcy knew it was conceit, but he was sure he was the best man.

Still this was all guess work, he did not actually know why, or more likely, who, Richard was pining for, although Darcy could know recognise the symptoms well enough. Best to find out so, breaking the silence, he asked. "Richard, this morning you mentioned your plans went awry. Anything I could help with?"

"No. It doesn't matter. No one can help."

"Are you sure, what is it. Maybe I can suggest something."

"There's no point burdening you with this."

"Come on Richard, you need to let me know what's wrong. You've been out of sorts since you returned to London. What happened in Ramsgate?"

"How do you know it was Ramsgate?"

"It's been obvious. You've not been yourself since your return."

Richard looked like he might say something, but stopped himself. Darcy sat and waited, know that now he'd got Richard to talk, it was just a matter of time… Sure enough…

"Look Darcy, you must promise that what I am about to tell you, you'll never tell my father."

"I'm happy to promise that."

"Even if you are asked directly. That may just mean you will have to lie on my behalf."

"Well I can't say I am happy about that, but yes I promise to even lie about it if I have to."

"Thank you Darcy. Well, the reason I've not been myself is that I'm ashamed of myself Darcy. The guts of it is that I made a real cake of myself. Acted like a schoolboy. I said things I should not have, flirted badly, although it was, I must say in my defence, it was returned in equal measure. But I raised expectations that I had no intention of fulfilling..."

Darcy felt the anger return, and his vision turned red, as he heard Richard talk of raisings Elizabeth's expectations, thinking only of how could Richard treat her that way. Darcy could hardly breathe as Richard continued, "Sure, I didn't quite go as far as actually making an offer to Charlotte…"

"Elizabeth's friend Miss Lucas?" Oh the relief! Darcy's world returned to normal.

"Yes, Charlotte, anyway…"

"Miss Lucas? Charlotte? The one that nursed you?" Darcy could not see how Richard could be attracted to Elizabeth's friend when Elizabeth eclipsed her like the sun did the stars.

"Yes, that one. Why do you find it so hard to understand the attraction?"

"It's that she's so...so…"

"Plain? There Darcy, I've said it so you don't have to."

"Well I'm sure she's got a lovely caring manner. She'll make someone a loving wife, and a very caring mother."

"I see you've not disagreed with me. But yes, I saw the same soul you've just described. It's a bit like, you know, Rebecca Featherstone where the exterior belies the depth of the person inside."

"I can only suppose you are correct, I wasn't there long enough to learn much of Miss Lucas, but my main impression was of shyness, she never really overcame it the entire time, although I noticed she was not so shy around you."

"I found out, in one of our many talks, where we were more open than I've ever been with any lady, and I think it was the same with her, that she found tall handsome gentlemen more than just a little imposing, and so was very nervous around them. This provoked the stuttering and stammering when she talked to you. You being both and me being neither explains a great deal of the difference in her manner."

"You are not tall, but I'd say you are not un-handsome."

"Thanks Darcy for the backhanded compliment, but I know my limitations. Next to you, I contrast as badly as Charlotte does against Elizabeth."

"True, it has been many months now that I have considered Elizabeth as one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance." Realising he'd said it with more vigour than he should, Darcy felt the hot flush of embarrassment, as that was far more than he'd admitted to Richard prior to now. Hoping Richard would let the statement pass, as he'd preferred not to discuss Elizabeth at Rosings where the servants were all beholden to his Aunt. He'd certainly not want Lady Catherine to know until it was a fait-accompli, who knew what mischief his Aunt could cause. Thankfully Richard said nothing, just leant back in his chair and smiled. In an attempt to refocus the discussion back on Richard's actions in Ramsgate, Darcy asked. "So you talked rather too freely for propriety sake?"

"Yes, and in a few unguarded moments said things that I shouldn't."

"Is there grounds for a breach of promise suit?"

"No, as I said, I did everything else but offer. Unlike you, who did."

"Well that's a... Just a minute, how do you know about that? I never told you exactly what happened that day."

"Elizabeth told me."

"She told you? Why? When?"

"It must have been only a week or so after you left so… abruptly. Um, I suppose it's confession time. Both Charlotte and I found common cause with the odd behaviour of the two of you, and our trying to find out what had caused it. We searched around and found an earlier copy of the letter you spent all night writing. But, you never gave it to Elizabeth did you?"

Darcy was annoyed, did he not have any secrets? But his innate honesty would not have him not answer. "As a matter of fact, no, I did not give it to her. It was burnt about a week later. But that's not the point, what were you doing snooping around?"

"As I said, Charlotte and I were worried about both you and Elizabeth. Did you know the day after you left she stood out all day in that nasty weather just after you left and was very ill?"

"No! Is she alright? Does she need anything?"

"Stop worrying Darcy, it was a long time ago. And yes, she's fine. Charlotte cared for her, while apologising for not being there for me. Can you believe it?"

"Yes, I suppose I can. Charlotte was always selfless, well at least as far as I could see. She certainly put up with you when you were having a bad day. I can remember thinking I'd have told you to go to the devil at the time."

"I wasn't that bad!"

"Not often, but you had your moments. But you must have known, given she must be quite a bit older than Elizabeth and still unmarried, she'd likely fall for anyone that paid her much attention. And even I could tell she might be very generous with her heart. You should have taken much more care!"

"It is that very generosity that attracted me to her that means I have acted like a cad. She'll be hurting badly from my desertion, I know it. But what can I do, Darcy? Being a colonel is an expensive exercise, and it is not just me or even the officers I have to worry about. It's the men. The army only provides the minimum you see, Parliament is too stretched in war time, too tight once peace returns to properly fund everything they need. So this falls to the officers, the colonel particularly. I spend pretty much every penny of the very generous quarterly allowance my father gives me on them… Please don't tell Father, he'd not understand. Then, if I want to be anything more than a Colonel, father still has to use his considerable influence for me to get a promotion to brigadier general, and that will means favours and gifts, and the gifts will most likely cost far more than he'll get back selling my colonelcy. I'm trapped. Father wants and demands an heiress, and I can't argue, I need an heiress. I'm trapped, Darcy, trapped." Richard turned his face from Darcy and went back to staring at the fire.

Darcy realised he couldn't reply with his plan right now. Richard's wounded heart was still too raw. But maybe if he prepared Lady Catherine, and only later bought the possibility up with Richard, that might work. As Darcy was considering how broach the subject with their Aunt, he saw Richard take a big slug of brandy before turning back towards him.

"And if I marry Charlotte, Darcy, what can I offer her? A disowned colonel sinking slowly into debt as his pay doesn't even cover his own needs, let alone that of hers and my men. No chance of ever getting a promotion and, far more likely to be sent off to the West Indies or India, as Father has plenty of connections in the Horse Guards for me to contend with. So you now see. Bit like you really, in love with someone I can't have, but you, you at least have a chance to change things. She no longer hates you. In fact she confessed to me just before I left Ramsgate her feelings are changing to the opposite. How opposite she didn't say but there is your chance."

"She does? Richard! Why didn't you tell me?"

"Sorry, haven't been in the mood to make anyone else happy, wallowing in my own misery too much I guess. Please accept my apologies."

"Sure. I sympathise with your situation, I do."

"I know. You, of all people might just understand. But what can I do, other than just carry on?"

"Can I help?"

"No, no you can't. Thanks for the offer, but unless you can conjure 50,000 pounds from somewhere, I'm done. I know I've joked about it before, but that is the minimum if I will need once I'm disowned by Father, as I'm sure it will happen. He spent a good deal of time berating Sumerville to me and lecturing me on my duty. He can't disown Sumerville, it's all entailed. But me, I survive to the greater extent, at his whim, and he's not a happy man at the moment. Although I hold out hope that maybe once Sumerville has a few heirs of his own, Father will not worry so much about the spare. But it is all a long way from now, I've got to make it through the war first. Maybe a Frenchie musket ball will make all this moot."

"Don't talk like that."

"Sometimes I think it would be for the best. I won't have to go on knowing of the pain I must have inflicted on her. But my men mean more to me than my own happiness. And, in the end I think it would be best for Charlotte as well, better for her pain to have been of short duration, she'll recover, than marry her, force her to suffer the depredations of war, and end up a penniless widow, Father would provide nothing, of that I am sure."

"Don't talk like that. You've survived this long."

"Sure, but how many others haven't. No, don't argue Darcy, I know the odds, and I'm well ahead of the game. But see, there is every chance I'll leave Charlotte a widow or worse, having to care for an invalid on the pittance of a pension His Majesty begrudges us."

"Look Richard, if it helps, I would always support you both or if the worst happened, her alone at Pemberley. The offer is there if that makes it easier."

"I'll not live on the charity of others, even yours. Anyway it doesn't matter, I think I've finally come to terms with the fact that Charlotte and I are not fated to be together. Maybe in a different time it could have worked, but with England threatened by Boney, I have to think of my men. Heaven knows the Government doesn't."

"Regardless, my offer will always be there. Could that help sway you to follow your heart?"

"Why are you so worried about my heart now Darcy? You never used to be."

That comment shook Darcy. Was that how his cousin and closest friend thought of him? It was true he could be proud, and recently realised he often come across as conceited, but he thought that was only his way with those that were only acquaintances, not those he considered friends.

"Richard, I am so very sorry that I've been that unfeeling. You should have said something earlier."

"But I did, maybe not directly, but I hinted at it any number of times, to no avail. I chose to believe you didn't understand than you were deliberately ignoring me."

"It was ignorance, I didn't know, truly I didn't."

"If it was anyone but you Darcy, I'd not believe them, but you? From you I can believe it. It takes your particular type of mind to be that oblivious to another's opinion. No don't get upset Darcy, it is just part of your make up, I learnt that many years ago, and it has its positive side... You will do the right thing regardless of what others think. You could pay more attention to what others are thinking and feeling, but keep that part of you as well."

"I have already learned a little about that recently, and have been trying to improve myself, but please, be honest, what else should I work to improve on?"

"I have noticed the difference in you recently, and I am very pleased for it. Was it Elizabeth's rejection that prompted this?"

"Yes, in fact it was. After I left Ramsgate I was..." Darcy went on to explain, eventually in more detail than he intended, as a result of Richard's intuitive questions, everything that happened since leaving Ramsgate up to arriving in Rosings Park. Darcy found it quite a revelation that Richard seemed to know already, and had known for a long time, many of the life lessons that Darcy had just learned. Richard's insight into the way a gentleman should act added to Darcy's growing understanding of just what he'd been like in the past, and what he needed to do to change in the future. Richard was also a great help in suggesting things he could do in his dealings with servants and the lower classes, to make him appear, to quote Richard, "less of a conceited arse". This was most embarrassing as Richard tended to quote Darcy's own words to Elizabeth as his examples.

This lead to Richard returning the compliment, giving a decent explanation of what happened at Ramsgate and what he'd learned from Elizabeth once Darcy left. Darcy was a little alarmed to hear of the extent of Richard's and Charlotte's actions in this regard, but afterward he could only be grateful for the extent of what was done had changed Elizabeth's views of him or enabled her to learn of the truth instead of her misinterpretations of what he had done. What was of real surprise was her telling Richard of his own brother's perfidy. He'd never thought she'd do such a thing, but when Richard, pressed for details, explained how it had come about, Darcy could only appreciate his cousin's skill (well for this time, he was not so appreciative when it was done on him). As can be imagined, the pair talked in this manner late into the night.

Later, when Darcy was alone in his room and had some time to himself, Darcy realised Richard's comments gave him more than just relief, it gave him hope. Yes there were a good number of her objections to overcome, then demonstrate his contrition and ask for repentance, a good many of Elizabeth's misunderstandings of his character had been laid to bed. There was the thought that next time they met, after making the apologies necessary, there could be a good possibility of starting again, as if with a fresh piece of paper. And this time he would take the time, make the effort to woo her properly. Show her how much he valued her, respected her, treasured her… loved her.

As Darcy was in that halfway state of not quite asleep, Darcy had what he was sure was a brilliant plan. It would take a bit of arranging, and could not be done here, but once back in London…


Unfortunately for Darcy, the rest of their stay reverted to the usual overly formal manner. But, thankfully the state of the accounts meant Darcy was in no way lying when he begged off all of the social activities Lady Catherine had planned for him and Anne. As was usual, Darcy sent Richard off to do the honours, while he spent the entire day buried deep in trying to get to grips with the estate ledgers, unpaid bills and deferred estate matters instead. While very grateful of Richard's willingness to take on this task, and earn the ire of their Aunt for making it impossible for her to insist on Darcy doing so given it would be impolite to favour one cousin over the other, Darcy was still not sure whether to actually promote the match between the two of them or not. There were real advantages to both parties, these were almost entirely economic, and he was not sure just how resigned Richard actually was to giving up on Charlotte, whatever his protestations to that effect. But, this visit he spent a lot more time, during the long interminable evening dinners to observe both Richard and Anne's behaviour towards each other.

Richard, as always, was friendly towards Anne, and actively tried to engage her in conversation, but whether it was anything more than his usual manner towards any lady or an attempt to deflect attention away from Darcy and on to himself, Darcy could not tell. Anne was harder to read, and knowing how badly he had erred in reading Elizabeth, Darcy would not want to do more than say he guessed Anne was happy to receive Richard's attention. After a week or so of this Darcy realised he'd made a mistake in studying Anne so closely, as it became obvious that Lady Catherine had noticed it as well, but was taking entirely the wrong impression from it. Damn! So for the rest of the stay Darcy fell back on his well-practiced reserved demeanour, getting a number of glares from Richard as a result. Darcy felt like he couldn't win, as did he felt he could not explain why he was doing it to Richard, since Darcy was still unsure whether to actively promote the match or just allow the pair of them to spend time together, under the lackadaisical chaperonage of Mrs Jenkinson, and hope something would just develop if it was going to without any assistance from him.

Whatever Darcy thought about the possible futures for Anne, it was hard to escape the subject of marriage, which Lady Catherine bought up obliquely in conversation every night. Probably the most blatant of this occurred the evening Darcy's Aunt invited Mr Collins, the newly installed Hunsford Rector for that night's dinner. Most intriguing was Lady Catherine's insistence that this was 'only to even up the numbers so we can fill out the pool at quadrille this evening' making it quite clear that in the normal course of events, she would not invite him as she felt Mr Collins to be very much a guest of last resort. But why, thought Darcy, maybe he was too forthright, too moralistic, too much a man of the people for his Aunt, and waited for this Mr Collins with some anticipation.

Whatever of the various possibilities Darcy had considered, the new rector, Mr Collins was none of these. It appeared Oxford accepted just about anyone now days, thought Darcy, as it was apparent that while Mr Collins had met the necessary terms by turning up often enough once his father had paid the tuition, Darcy could not see any evidence that he'd learnt anything while there. Any possible learning demonstrated was poorly memorised quotes or extracts, often misattributed, where Darcy knew the quote and the real author. But what he lacked in sense he made up for with a bizarre mix of pride and self-importance, based entirely on the high rank of his patroness, who he venerated with an obsequiousness that was disconcerting, and a humility that bordered on submissive. Darcy had to consciously resist the urge to wipe his hand on his breeches after Mr Collins shook it, and smiled when Richard actually did.

The dinner conversation that evening could only be described as bizarre. Lady Catherine appeared to have a male echo, but one with occasional unintentionally hilarious, memory lapses, that meant it was often very hard not to laugh out loud. Mr Collins at times spoke in rambling speeches, that were slightly incoherent, and even contradictory as he appeared to try to guess what his patroness wanted him to say. Darcy and Richard just looked at each other in amazement as their Aunt seemed happy to let Mr Collins make a fool of himself. Whenever he appeared to run out of words, Lady Catherine would ask another leading question, and the cycle would repeat.

During the separation after dinner, although as short as Darcy and Richard could make it, this still gave Mr Collins the opportunity to make a big deal about an estate, called Longbourn, that he was to inherit from a cousin, who had no heirs. That name seemed familiar to Darcy but he could not place the reference. When questioned, Mr Collins had very little to say about it, having not actually been there, nor did he know much about where it was or what type of farming was the source of its income. Darcy could not understand how anyone could be so ignorant. He also, to Darcy's distaste, made a particular note of the age of the incumbent, with the implication that he'd inherit soon. Thankfully for Darcy it was not long before the gentlemen joined the ladies in the parlour.

It was then that Lady Catherine was her most blatant. While looking directly at Darcy, she asked Mr Collins directly "Are you married Mr Collins?"

Given that she must have already known the answer to this, Darcy knew that this was just the prelude to a series of pointed questions that she would then also answer, all directly at him. Mr Collins found the question equally odd, stammered something, before Lady Catherine answered for him. "Of course you are not. But you will be soon will you not?"

Mr Collins had no answer to this. Darcy suspected he'd not given it much thought, having only just gained a living that might allow for it. But there was no stopping the juggernaut that was his Aunt, who had her particular selfish views to consider. "Mr Collins, you must marry as any clergyman must marry, to be a good example to the neighbourhood. Find such a woman as soon as you can, and when you bring her to Hunsford, I will visit her."

"But, Lady Catherine, where would I find such a lady? I have just arrived here."

"Mr Collins, are you not to inherit an estate elsewhere?"

"Yes your ladyship. Of course it is nothing to…"

"Yes, Yes, Mr Collins, I could not expect that, it would be ridiculous to think any estate you would inherit could rival any of the great estates like Rosings Park, or Pemberley, for example. No, I was not expecting a comparison, it was, if I recall, the owner has only daughters. Are any of them not married?"

"Ah, your Ladyship, um, ah…"

"Well Mr Collins? It was a simple question. Are they or are they not married?"

"Ah. Well, um… not as far as I know Lady Catherine."

"So there we have it. Marry one of them. I am sure that they will know the ways to economise, and their parents will be grateful to have the property stay in the family and so will promote the match."

"There is but one daughter at home Lady Catherine."

"So marry their only daughter. Is she of marriageable age?"

"Ah, um… Well, you see your Ladyship, it is that…" By now Darcy had determined that Mr Collins had a habit of bobbing his head up and down when he was nervous, and by now most replies included a good deal of head bobbing.

"Mr Collins, you read the sermons I sent you without all this prevarication… Out with it."

"Ah. Ah… I fear that the daughter at home is the youngest and likely to be too young. The others are elsewhere."

"Elsewhere? And unmarried? What sort of strange family arrangements does your Uncle have?"

"Cousin, Lady Catherine, distant cousin." By this stage Mr Collins head was bobbing up and down like a duck on a wind ruffled pond.

"Whatever relative, what sort of living arrangements do the other daughters have?"

"Ah… Um… Well… I understand several are living with other relatives." Darcy wondered what sort of speed Mr Collins head would be on a metronome, it was now that regular.

"It sounds like a very small estate if they can have but one child at home, yet you described it as having a reasonable income. Can you explain this?"

"Oh no, it has a reasonable income your ladyship, it is just that one of the daughters was involved in a scandal while in London several years ago, although what specifically happened my father did not learn, and thus the family is not well received any longer."

"And so they should not. I understand your own reluctance to admit to the connection now. No, you should not look to find a wife from any of the daughters. But what of the area around the estate? There must be a gentlewoman there that would accept an offer from you."

"I do not know your Ladyship, I have not visited the area. Should I go?"

"Of course you should go. You must, if just to ensure that the incumbent is not ruining your inheritance. If he is, you can sue, you know. But there will be considerable advantages in marrying a gentlewoman from the area. She will know the area, thus who are the honest merchants and who gives poor terms or does not extend credit. And she will not be associated with your cousin, and may help overcome your own tainted connection with the other leading families of the area"

"I shall go as soon as I can arrange it, if that is acceptable to you, your Ladyship. It should not take long to find someone that will accept my offer of marriage."

"But not just anyone that would accept you Mr Collins." Darcy winced at this insult, but noticed Mr Collins appeared oblivious to it, as his Aunt continued "You must choose properly. Take care to choose a gentlewoman for my sake; and for your own, let her be an active, useful sort of person, not brought up high, but able to make a small income go a good way. You cannot go wrong in this case."

"I will start the arrangements at once Lady Catherine. At once. I will start by…"

"Yes, yes. See Fitzwilliam, there is a man that knows the value of marriage and is willing to act on it."

"Yes Aunt. I congratulate you on your coming nuptials Mr Collins. I am sure you will be very happy." At this Darcy got up and paced off towards the nearest window.

"Thank you Mr Darcy, thank you ever so much, it is great honour to…" Mr Collins had started to get up to thank Darcy properly, but then sat back as Darcy walked past him without looking.

Behind him his Aunt, now no longer the centre of attention, interrupted Mr Collins again to ask, "So Richard, what about you? Has your father found someone for you?"

And Mr Collins was left out of the remaining conversation, having to sit there as Lady Catherine talked of things or people he had no knowledge of, until (Darcy assumed) she decided Mr Collins had been firmly enough put in his place and it was time play quadrille.


Darcy did wonder, as they were finally riding back towards London, whether Lady Catherine deliberately forgot to record personal expenditure, failed to pay bills, miss-noted entries, and ignored dunning letters to ensure his staying longer. He did not remember his father taking this long to manage the accounts, although he did remember his Aunt was less intractable about planning essential estate maintenance and improvements, now a considerable source of contention between him and her. No wonder she could not retain a steward for more than a few years at a time. How Mr Egan put up with having his orders countermanded at every turn Darcy could not imagine.

Deciding that any more time contemplating Rosings Park would bring about a headache, Darcy started to put together the various elements of the plan that had come to him the first night. However his musings were (rudely) interrupted by Richard, who had become more like his garrulous self the last week.

"Darcy, glad that's over for another year? Or are you going to have to go back for the harvest."

"I'd love not have to, but given how badly it was managed last year, I suspect I will have to do something. Lady Catherine is still spending as if she had the income from a full harvest last year. The estate won't cope with the mismatch forever."

"Here's a bit of news for that might make it a happier time for you…"

And, as annoying as ever, Richard paused. Well, two can play at this game, so Darcy refused to bite.

And said nothing for a little while.

And then a while more.

Having a plan to work out Darcy was prepared to spend the rest of the trip silently.

It would suit him fine.

He had all day.

"Alright! Alright! Darcy you win. I found out something interesting while you were buried in the dusty old ledgers…"

Darcy just turned and looked.

And just waited.

Again.

"...Humph. Fine! As you know I spent a good deal of time with Anne. She's not as dull as she seems. Just that Mrs Jenkinson monotone reading bores her to tears, and she's frustrated with no being able to read much herself with her megrims and such, so I did the honours on a number of occasions. She was a lot more perceptive than I've ever given her credit for, and has a very good memory. We had several good discussions afterwards. And there was the time the Mrs Jenkinson fell asleep. Anne does a wicked parody of her mother. I just about slipped of the seat! You should get her to do it some time. Ask about her to do the one with the piano teacher. Wonderful!"

Richard was suppressing his laughter while relating that last bit, however Darcy wondered why he was telling him this, relating a second hand joke wasn't the least bit funny, however much Richard was amused. His puzzlement must have shown, as Richard sobered up to continue, "Oh, that's not the good news. What will make you happy is that Anne is not interested in marrying you either."

"She's not?' It was a bit of a blow to his ego to find out he'd be rejected (if not as definitively as Elizabeth had) by another lady.

"No. Doesn't want to leave Rosings Park you see. Marrying someone without an estate means Rosings will be her dowry. Sorry Darcy, but you're not acceptable. Rejected again."

Darcy was less than happy for Richard to be quite so cheerful about this, even if he'd drawn the same conclusion himself.

"It is not a rejection, I've always made it clear I never intended to offer, whatever her mother said on the matter. If Anne's as perceptive as you say, she must have realised that already."

"I'm sure she does. Still, there's first time for everything, a gentleman rejected because he's got an estate, rather than from the lack of it! Gives me hope, it does."

"I'm glad it makes you happy."

"I suppose it does. You know Darcy, I was pleased to find that Anne's not as meek and as mild as I've always imagined her to be, certainly not as she is when around her mother. She might even make someone a good wife if Aunt Catherine moving to the Dower house is part of the marriage settlement. Hey, Darcy, is Aunt Catherine still refusing to maintain it so she'd never be forced to life there?"


It was not long in after he arrived London that Darcy was able to see how well Bingley and Jane were doing together now. Bingley was most appreciative to Darcy's actions, and thanked him each time they met, until Darcy had to tell him to stop. The discussion that arose when this was asked of Bingley, led to a good number more. As a result of Darcy asking Bingley questions about himself, as his Grandmother had done to him, Bingley made significant changes to his own attitudes and behaviours.

This also bought about a pleasing change in their friendship. Gone was the feeling of a tutor to student interaction. Bingley now generally only deferred to Darcy in areas where Darcy had significantly more experience or knowledge, such as estate management or the intricacies of ton behaviour, and Darcy recognised where it was better to defer to Bingley, learning a large amount about business and investments in return.

This meant that Darcy and Charles spent a good deal of time together, and where there was Charles there was bound to be Jane. Or, more likely where Jane was, Charles could be found. It was very apparent how the time apart had changed how the pair interacted. Where it was possible, with Darcy often posing as a chaperone, the other two spent the time talking in low tones. Of what Darcy chose deliberately not to know, but whatever it was, there could be no denying that each knew exactly how one felt about the other now, and what the eventual conclusion of all this would be.

About the only downside to this felicity was that Darcy was often forced to pair up with Caroline to give Bingley and his lady time together without Caroline's acidic comments. Darcy was surprised how negative Caroline was towards Jane, even after she was made aware, in no uncertain terms, of Darcy's admiration of Jane and his approval of any possible future alliance.


It was about a fortnight after returning from Rosings, when Darcy, a good deal into today's business, was interrupted by a knock on his office door. Darcy turned, and then stood, as Steele announced the arrival of Mr Senge.

"Greetings Mr Darcy. Here I am, as agreed." Said the rather slight man, with wild tousled hair, in a heavy continental accent.

"Ah, Mr Senge, welcome. Were you able to get sufficient sketches to complete all your commissions?"

"Yes. I have several poses of your sister for you to approve, with a few watercolour sketches of possible backgrounds in which to situate her. I was thinking of the front lawn…"

The painter had bent to open his leather folio when Darcy stopped him. "Good. We will get to that later, what about the other two?"

"Ah. Your sister's companion was not always present, it was her older sister, the blonde one, that kept your sister company most often. The little girl was often the cause of her lack of attendance."

"Yes, yes, but did you get their likeness? Did anyone notice you?"

"It was not easy, but I did enough quick sketches to fully capture her likeness, and the little girl as well, without anyone being the wiser."

"Very good, it has to be a surprise. So the smaller portrait and miniatures will be ready when?"

"Give me another week or so on the portrait, but I've bought the miniatures with me. Here." At that the painter reached into a pocket and bought out two small boxes. Darcy resisted the urge to snatch them out of his hands, waiting patiently as Mr Serge fumbled the first box open and then handed it over. Ah! Picking it up reverently, Darcy was most gratified to see an extremely faithful likeness of Elizabeth, in miniature, the perfect size to carry in his breast pocket. Placing it carefully back in its box, Darcy waited until he was shown the other work. This was a very good painting of Amy-Jane as well.

"Mr Serge, these are excellent. You have done an exemplary job on both. I can but look forward to the smaller portrait as well."

"Yes it will be only a week or so. Are you sure you do not want me to have a frame made? It would save you the trouble later."

"No, that will not be necessary. Just the painting, thank you. Now, what have you drawn of the options for my sister."

"As you wish. With your sister I have several sketches of landscapes and two inside, if I can show you…" The painter then finally got to open his folio. The rest of the time together was spent discussing the arrangement of the full sized oil portrait of Georgiana that Darcy had commissioned, in preparation of her sixteenth birthday.

After the painter had left Darcy removed the miniature of Elizabeth from its box again, and stood for a long time just looking at it, holding it, before slipping into his breast pocket. After this Darcy went over to his desk and removed the older miniature of Summerville and placed it on his desk before taking the one of Amy-Jane and put that alongside. Mr Serge had painted Amy-Jane in half profile, with the same aspect as Sumerville's one, as requested. So, other than the new one looking a lot fresher and a few subtle differences in hair and eye colour, the two looked similar enough that those that did not know already were unlikely to pick which was which without prompting. He placed Amy-Jane's one back in its box, and the one of Summerville as a child in the other box, before putting both back into his desk drawer and locking it.

Given that the painter had followed his instructions to date, Darcy was sure, as he looked over to his safe, that Elizabeth's portrait would fit there and, later in his trunk, until he was in a position to have it framed and hung, pride of place, in his office. Darcy then turned back to the business that was interrupted by Mr Senge arriving for his appointment.

Once that was finished Darcy moved to the library proper to think. He mentally went through the list of the different elements of his plan, as he did so, Darcy realised there was only one thing left to do. Realising he could not do it alone, he tried to think of the best man, or men to help. Bingley would, without hesitation, but he's bound to ask why. Adams would most likely help, and he'd certainly not balk at the illicit nature nor likely to ask questions, but he might be a bit too noticeable. Isaac? Hard to say, honesty being one of those things a priest about pride themselves.

No, the only answer was to wait for Richard to return from visiting his regiment's trainee, which meant a delay of a week or more. But that could not be helped. Actually, Richard was bound to have a few fellow officers that would come along and make the whole thing that bit easier. Satisfied that he had a solution, Darcy picked up the book he had not finished last night.


Richard took nearly a fortnight to return, but came around promptly, the very night he returned. After being shown in, Richard wasted no time coming to the point.

"Darcy, so what is it you need? Hope it won't take too long. I've got less than a week before I accompany the new recruits to Spain."

"There for the duration?"

"Yes, the leg has finally come right, well good enough to be able to be in the saddle all day, so I'm able to rejoin the regiment. Can't wait to see how Major Miles has been coping in my absence. You realise it's been the best part of 9 months?"

"Has it been that long? Yes, I suppose it has. Actually, it should take only an afternoon."

"Good. Happy to help, but make it sometime Wednesday or Thursday, if possible. There's quite a bit still to do to be ready. Oh, sailing is Friday at this stage."

"That works for me. Look, it's a lot to ask of you, what I want goes well beyond the pale, so I'm fine if you say no. Promise you'll say no if you're uncomfortable with it."

"Now you've got me intrigued Darcy. Is it illegal?"

"Not illegal, but might get us black-balled from every club in London."

There was no reply but raised eyebrows from Richard. Darcy went on to explain.

"What I need to do it remove a page of the betting book at Brooks."

"My brother's club? But why? What bet?"

"You know that Amy-Jane is your niece? Yes? Well, it was the result of a bet. Can you believe… Oh, you know. Well, I just can't stand the idea of their being a record of that in a book somewhere."

"You know they don't look back to old bets that often."

"Doesn't matter. It irks me just being there, not knowing what is written, or if they name names. Without a record it can be denied if it is ever made public. The antagonism between your brother and I is such that unless there is some form of proof I should be able to brazen it out as him just being vindictive."

"You've spent some time thinking this through, haven't you?"

"Yes, if, no when, I marry Elizabeth, I need to be able to protect her daughter as if she was my own. In fact I'll admit to being the father if I need to, if that is if Elizabeth wants me to do. While it would be better to pretend it was a secret marriage, her being so young, I doubt that would wash. But I suppose her being my mistress could stand up to scrutiny. There are enough rumours, mostly your sister I think, to allow that to be believed. Better a mistress than what they'd think if what really happened became known."

"I'll stand by any story you want to promote, if it ever comes to that."

"Thank you. So, while I remove the page, what you need to do is distract the attendant and make enough noise to cover the sound as it tears."

"No. Darcy, don't tear it! Cut it using a razor, very close to the spine. A ripped page will stick out like dogs balls. Take the one Steele uses on you, that'll cut through it like butter. You alright if I bring a few fellow officers I trust. I can ensure more noise and confusion than several attendants can cope with."

"As long as they don't know what's happening."

"Sure, no problem. I'm sure I can come up with something. Look you go there about an hour earlier, and find the right page, I'll turn up with my party at about three. I'll be bringing Captain Greaves definitely, he's a member of Brooks, and… Doesn't matter who, but we'll do more distracting than you think possible.. Anyway Wednesday or Thursday? Remember I'm off Friday, weather and preparation allows."

"Then Wednesday is better. Gives another day if needed. Are you sure you want to do this?"

"What, and miss out on the possibility of getting one over on my brother? Not on your life. Look, send me a note, Tuesday, if it is still on, as I best be off now. Lots to do. Oh, sorry, is there anything else you need?"

"No, just that. Look, think about it. There could be real consequences for doing this."

"Darcy, stop worrying. Maybe you mark the page and I'll do it."

"No I need to do it, so if I get caught…"

"You worry too much. It'll be fine. See you Wednesday."

"See you at three."


Darcy, meticulous as ever, was admitted to Brooks at ten minutes to two. After a single brandy Darcy asked the attendant if he could confirm a bet he was sure a friend made a number of years ago. Knowing that it had just been Amy-Jane's fifth birthday, Darcy started with the date of five and three quarter years ago, and worked back from then. When he finally found it, with its adjustments and damning record of completion, with an addendum of Jane Bennet as well, marked incomplete, Darcy blood boiled. How could gentlemen be so casual about a ladies virtue? He'd also read over a number of similar distasteful bets along similar lines in finding this one. While not really important, Darcy first noticed the date the bet was lodged was pretty much at the point his father fell ill that last time, so Summerville was planning the ruination of a lady while his uncle, Darcy's father, lay dying. Then looking closer, Darcy realised it, the date of Amy-Jane's conception, as recorded in indelible ink on the page in front of him, occurred very soon after his father died, when Summerville should have been in full mourning!

As Richard and companions had not yet arrived, Darcy left an incomplete bet, a few pages earlier open, and asked for another, earlier book, while hoping that he'd turn up soon. Thankfully Darcy was able to convince the attendant to leave the book he actually needed while the earlier was sent for, but if Richard didn't turn up soon, Darcy was not…

Speak of the devil, Richard, with a whole gaggle of other officers arrived, acting (or Darcy hoped they were acting) as if they were in their cups, making a great deal of noise and acting the goat in the public area. Darcy was about to remove the razor when the other attendant returned. Damn! Feigning interest in this new book, but stopping the real one being removed, Darcy waited.

It was not long before Richard 'noticed' his cousin and dragged the whole collection of officers into the room with him. Richard gestured at the book in front of Darcy. Darcy shook his head and pointed to the real one. At that Richard grabbed the book Darcy appeared to be looking at and threw it to another. This started a game of piggy in the middle as the officers threw it around to keep it out of the hands of the frantic attendants. With this brilliant distraction, Darcy had every opportunity to flick out the razor, slice the page along close to the spine and whip them under his coat before starting to yell at his cousin, while nodding at him.

Richard, taking the hint, returned the book to the attendant and, to the catcalls of his companions for spoiling their fun, managed to get them to leave, before winking at Darcy as he followed them out.

Once they left, Darcy pushed the books in front of him away, saying he didn't need these, could he have two even earlier ones? That Richard and his party of officers had not left meant the attendants were more worried about them than Darcy, so he was able to better stow the cut page and razor without incident. Then, exclaiming to have found the page he needed, Darcy asked for pen and paper, and made a good deal about carefully copying the page open in front of him, even asking if he'd made a reasonable facsimile of the signatures. Once finished, Darcy thanked the attendants, apologised for his cousin and then fled in the quickest, but still dignified manner he could.


Darcy sat at his desk looking at the reply to his letter in front of him, feeling very satisfied with the positive response. He felt a great deal of satisfaction that everything of his plan, formulated back on that first night at Rosings, if modified a little, was in place.

Now all he could do was wait.


End of Part 3


I feel like I need to, if not apologise, at least explain, the delay of this chapter. The first draft of the section with Mr Collins was so bad, even after a number of edits that didn't really improve it, that I had to delete it. Nothing I wrote of Darcy and Mr Collins talking had any feeling of being real. It certainly made me appreciate the genius of Jane Austen, to be able to write Mr Collins absurdity so well. As I have discovered, rational conversation is far easier.

At the time I didn't have any other ideas so carried on, writing the rest of this chapter. So last weekend, I had all but that bit ready to publish. It's taken me all this time to come up with the new section, and then edit it rather heavily, to get something that I am not that unhappy with. I have to say I am still not that happy, and suspect that bit will be heavily edited again when I re-edit the whole story once I finish.

Hopefully the length hasn't put you off - but I suppose if it did, you'd not be reading this. It could be two chapters, it certainly had enough going on for that, but I wanted to wrap up all the loose ends ready for Part 4 without stretching it out even further, certainly several parts of this chapter could be expanded, but I chose not to.