Wretched Beginnings Chapter 4 – November 1812
Tuesday, November 3, 1812
"Did you walk the entire three miles, Miss Eliza?" Caroline Bingley scoffed. Her critical eyes did not miss Lizzy's disarray of loose hair and petticoats six inches deep in mud.
'You don't walk unless it is Presentation Hour in Hyde Park. Well, unless you are roaming the halls of Netherfield searching for me.' Darcy thought uncharitably. 'Miss Elizabeth cares more for her sister than her appearance.' He admired Miss Elizabeth's sparkling eyes and heightened color from her walk. He also noted she did not attempt to ignore Caroline Bingley's rude and inexcusable manners.
"Well, I do not believe the rain caused the length of the walk to grow. So yes, I walked three miles." Lizzy commented. "May I inquire about my sister's condition?" 'The superior sisters are more interested in their gowns and deportment than sisterly devotion.'
Bingley led Lizzy to Jane's room. He did not enter but he did stand in the doorway.
Jane croaking out her thank you to Bingley, causing him to blush and nod before he turned away.
"I've horrified the superior sisters." To divert Jane, Lizzy described her appearance this morning. "I doubt they will venture outside until the paths and fields are dry after Easter. I think that's silly since November is upon us. The gardens at Netherfield Park are quite fine. However, I shall not complain. Their aversion is advantageous for solitary walks."
~X~
"I stopped to visit Longbourn's stillroom before coming here. I needed borage flowers for tea infusions. Miss Mary gave me a basket of items for you to nurse Miss Bennet." Mr. Jones gave Lizzy the basket from Mary.
"Mary advocates washing your hands both before and after examining Jane." Lizzy handed Dr. Jones a fresh bar of Mary's sickroom soap. "She says fever or infections from patients you saw before you came to us are easily shared with people who are in a weakened state. She recommends you wash your hands all the time to keep from passing the illness. If you don't mind," Lizzy gestured to the washstand and the pitcher of hot water and fresh towels.
"Fever is a risk with almost any illness. I can understand Miss Mary's concern about leeches which are used on patient after patient. Why isn't she here? She would not say why." Mr. Jones rolled up his shirt sleeves and quietly washed his hands with the lemon and ginger soap. He did not know what transpired to have Miss Bennet ill with fever and sore throat at a neighbor's home. If Miss Mary wasn't here to nurse her sister, he appreciated the steady Miss Elizabeth.
"Mama wouldn't allow her come," Lizzy examined the contents of the basket which Mary sent. Mary placed a book of poetry, protecting a dozen honey biscuits, at the side of the basket. Lizzy could sequester herself in Jane's room today and not endure the superior sisters. She planned to spend an hour or two reading to restore her disposition.
"Mrs. Bennet wanted Miss Mary to nurse her instead of Miss Bennet?" Mr. Jones set about examining Jane.
'Mama doesn't want me here at all. The thought of Mary healing Jane in a few days vexes her. She wants Jane to stay here for a week, with Mr. Bingley and his sisters attending Jane's sickroom.' Lizzy admitted Mama's matchmaking efforts to herself but would not admit them aloud.
Dr. Jones dried his hands and spoke. "Make lemon balm and feverfew tea with a teaspoon of the spiced honey. The lemon balm will help with the fatigue. The feverfew will help with the cold and headache. The spiced honey will soothe her sore throat. Cold compresses of lavender water will help with the headache. I recommend a hot bath of lavender water to relax Miss Bennet and help her sleep. Miss Mary's restorative beef broth will feed Miss Bennet's blood and make her stronger. She sent blue hyssop syrup if Miss Bennet develops a cough. She sent white willow bark powder for headaches. I recommend dissolving white willow bark in a cup of hot tea or in half a glass of wine. Miss Mary and I wrote steps for you." He handed Lizzy the paper hr just read. "Miss Bennet, I recommend you never spend any length of time in the rain again," Mr. Jones gently chided one of his favorite patients.
Jane smiled weakly and closed her eyes.
"What is on Miss Mary's drying racks and trays these days?" Mr. Jones returned to the wash stand and scrubbed.
"We harvested the herb garden. Mary took cuttings to the conservatory for cooking and baking this winter and for planting next spring. She has been drying and harvesting seeds since Midsummer. Currently she has twelve full drying trays of seeds. There must be six dozen bouquets of lavender and another six dozen bouquets of herbs hanging from the drying racks in the distillery. She harvested the beehives for the winter. She opines this is an excellent year for honey production." Lizzy thanked the apothecary for the basket from Mary.
~X~
'I am surprised Miss Bingley did not choke on her own tongue when she claimed concern for Jane's health. I feel Mr. Bingley prevented Miss Bingley from shipping Jane home immediately after my arrival.' Lizzy felt conflicted. Mama wanted Jane to make the most of this situation and the Bingley sisters wished them far away. Meanwhile Jane fatigued too easily to leave her bed.
"Bingley is concerned for your sister's health." Mr. Darcy watched Miss Elizabeth search for reading material in Bingley's sparce library.
"I left Jane resting after reading to her." Lizzy responded. Mary sent a book of poetry, but Lizzy felt excessive poetry wearied her like excessive doses of Mama's nerves.
"I'm not sure what you and your sister read. I brought a few dozen books to occupy my time." Mr. Darcy held out a handful of books. "Please feel free to choose anything you like."
"Oh!" Lizzy clapped with delight. "The collected comedies of William Shakespeare!"
"They say laughter is the best medicine," Mr. Darcy quipped.
"If so, then may I suggest you keep this book and entertain yourself. I'm capable of laughing at my fellow man. However, your severe mien must be in dire need of medicinal laughter." Lizzy tried to return the book to him.
Mr. Darcy chuckled and refused to take the book. "I have Bingley to make me laugh."
'And Miss Bingley to make him frown,' thought Jennings. He stood at the door of the library to preserve propriety for Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth.
Wednesday, November 4
The steward guided the men from Netherfield Park along the river. Dawn exhibited beautifully, with the familiar scents of autumn in the air. Colorful leaves half decorated the ground and the other half clung stubbornly to the trees. The steward noted the lengthy autumn Hertfordshire experienced this year. The sound of the rushing river, the crinkle of the leaves…the men quieted, waiting for the beaters to send birds into the air.
The four men, in hunting clothes, returned to Netherfield Park. They relished the success of their hunt. "We bagged ever so many birds," Bingley crowed. "Breakfast should be ready after we change clothes and refresh ourselves."
The steward passed oranges to the men. "These will keep you from becoming too hungry before you return to the house. We have excellent shooting this year. If we experience another beautiful dawn, we should plan an early morning deer hunt. Cook wants your orange peels, don't throw them away." The men enjoyed the treat while strolling back to the house.
~X~
The early fall breeze felt quite pleasant. Mary planned to visit the tenants of Longbourn and Netherfield as Jane fell ill, and Lizzy tended her. Mrs. Barnes had twin sons last night. Mary made two blankets for the new babies when Mr. Jones advised he believed Mrs. Barnes was enceinte with twins. She took a basket of prepared soup and bread from Longbourn's kitchen, with a bottle of apple wine for celebrating. She would stop at Netherfield, with hopes of receiving enough food to feed the family for a week so Mrs. Barnes could rest.
Mary gave ten percent of her funds along with ten percent of her time to God. Reading the Bible, caring for tenants, sewing for the poor, growing food for the needy…those were more important than worrying about not being as pretty as her sisters. 'Pretty is as pretty does,' Vicar Nelson's wife asserted.
~X~
"Pray tell, Miss Eliza…why is Miss Mary Bennet carrying baskets of food out of my kitchens?" Miss Bingley appeared late for breakfast and snapped at Lizzy. Darcy, Bingley and Hurst walked out for shooting. They returned, hungry for breakfast and did not expect Miss Bingley to appear. Lizzy suspected Miss Bingley would attend breakfast since Lizzy stayed at Netherfield. Darcy and Lizzy sat next to Bingley. Hurst sat next to Darcy. Miss Bingley could sit at the end of the table, or next to Lizzy. She chose the end of the table.
Lizzy carefully set her cup on its saucer. "Usually Jane and I call on tenants on Wednesday. Since we are both here, I am sure Mary conducts the calls for us. I do not know who Mary is visiting today, as I have not spoken with Mrs. Nichols. Didn't your informant provide a reason?"
"No," Miss Bingley rang for Mrs. Nichols. "I will know the meaning of this. Has your sister been giving my staff orders?"
"My sister Mary, the daughter of a gentleman, would not give orders to your staff," Lizzy sipped her coffee.
Mrs. Nichols appeared, handing a basket of cardamom and walnut scones to Mr. Bingley. "These are fresh out of the oven. I know how much you men like hot pastries after an early morning shoot." She turned to Miss Bingley…anticipating she was the person who rang.
"I would like to know why Miss Mary Bennet left Netherfield's kitchens early this morning, departing with baskets of food?" Miss Bingley's voice frosty voice resembled the wind blowing leaves off the trees.
"Mr. and Mrs. Barnes are tenant farmers of Netherfield Park. Mrs. Barnes gave birth to twin sons last night. Mother and sons are doing fine according to Mr. Jones. He asked me to send a basket to the new family this morning. He stopped at Longbourn to inform Miss Mary about the births. She had new blankets for the boys and prepared a basket for them also. She collected our basket while carrying Longbourn's basket to the Barnes Farm." Mrs. Nichols stood quietly at the door.
"Oh, I'm so glad for the Barnes," Lizzy quietly cheered.
"Miss Mary knew you would be. She asked you not visit the farm until after Miss Bennet is well." Mrs. Nichols reminded Lizzy.
"Is there a reason you and your sisters call on the Netherfield tenants? I do not approve of her wearing such mediocre quality clothes if she represents Netherfield!" Miss Bingley's brittle questions irked Lizzy.
"Netherfield Park has been uninhabited for three years. Jane, with Mrs. Mason and Mrs. Nichols, call on tenant farmers. My sister Mary provides medicines for Netherfield Park tenants who are ill. My father consults with Mr. Mason about fence repairs between Netherfield Park and Longbourn, planting and harvesting, and repairs to tenant houses. For the past year I've been teaching Mrs. Barnes to read." Lizzy accepted the basket of scones from Mr. Darcy. "Thank you," she smiled at him before giving the basket to the footman to offer to Miss Bingley. "Papa will not allow us to wear silks or satins when calling on tenants. I'm sure Mary dressed appropriately for walking and making calls. She probably wore one of her brown stuff gowns, walking boots, and her warm wool, hooded cloak." Lizzy looked to Mrs. Nichols who nodded confirmation.
"Why isn't our stillroom maid taking care of ill tenants instead of the neighbors?" Miss Bingley demanded.
"We have no stillroom maid. We haven't had one since Mr. and Mrs. Allerton moved to Bath and began leasing the property. Miss Mary helps Mrs. Mason with the planting and harvesting of the main farm gardens. She helped Mrs. Barnes with their kitchen garden when her increase created difficulty before her confinement. St. Albans received ten percent of the harvest from the main farm garden. Netherfield staff, tenants and the Allertons in Bath received the remainder." Mrs. Nichols explained.
"Why hasn't Mr. Mason brought this situation to the attention of the solicitor who is responsible for the property?" Darcy inquired.
"The solicitor is responsible for creating a lease to rent the manor house. The steward ensures the planting and harvesting are completed, and collect rents from the tenants. We are grateful Mr. Bingley has been here this year to learn about the harvests, and the distribution of the harvests. We don't always need a stillroom maid. Accepting help from the Miss Bennets has been advantageous to us." Mrs. Nichols noted.
"I'm sure using the Miss Bennets to do your tasks has been advantageous. Why would your father teach you to care for the tenants, Miss Eliza?" Miss Bingley attempted to show the Bennet girls were less the daughters of a gentleman, and more like servants.
"Calling on tenants and seeing to their needs are tasks of the mistress of the house. Those tasks are taught to daughters of gentlemen." Lizzy commented. "Without tenants, estates would not function. Jane, Mary and I visit our tenants weekly, seeing to any needs for medical care, food, and clothing. We learn if there is a farm problem which needs addressed. As Netherfield did not have a master or mistress, we cared for their tenants also. Papa believes we should provide a neighborly and community concern."
"In addition to keeping the servants and Netherfield Hall in good order, I am expected to make calls on tenants?" Caroline Bingley could not believe her ears. "Surely the servants inquire after the tenants and the sick!"
"I am sorry Miss Bingley, but Miss Elizabeth is correct. You are hostess to your brother, who is the current leaseholder of Netherfield Park. His responsibility is to learn estate and land management. Your responsibility is to manage his home, see to the tenants of Netherfield Park and provide for the poor of the parish. Georgiana helps when she is home, whether at Pemberley or the Darcy House in London. She began when she turned ten. She coordinates with the housekeeper at each residence to provide the Christmas baskets for tenants and Boxing Day gifts for staff." Darcy finished his breakfast. "If the Netherfield Park kitchens do not need the birds I shot this morning, I would be grateful if they found their way to the tenants, especially the Barnes family with my best wishes on the birth of their sons."
"I will see to the birds are distributed immediately," Mrs. Nichols acknowledged.
"Our birds may be given to the tenants also," Bingley offered. "I shot a turkey, which I would like you to prepare, but all the pheasants may be given away to tenants."
"If Miss Bingley approves the change of menu, we will serve the turkey for dinner this evening," Mrs. Nichols announced.
"Fine," Miss Bingley buttered her scone. "Turkey for dinner will be fine. You can arrange the other four and twenty dishes around it."
"I think five and twenty dishes is excessive," Mr. Bingley objected. "Ten dishes with the turkey will be fine."
"Charles…my task as hostess is to determine the menu. Do not serve roasted turnips or rutabagas. They are quite disgusting and should just be fed to the farm animals." Miss Bingley ordered Mrs. Nichols.
"Can we have an orange or lemon ice for the sweet course?" Hurst requested.
"We have not had ice since May, Mr. Hurst. We can offer an excellent selection of cheeses and fresh fruits from the orangery like grapes, apricots, and nectarines. Miss Bingley requested almond gingerbread, vanilla custard, nut pound cake and spice biscuits for this evening's sweets," Mrs. Nichols offered.
"Louisa and I will discuss the dinner menu with you after breakfast," Miss Bingley snapped again. "Can your staff deliver the birds and food baskets to the tenants?"
"I'll contact Mrs. Mason, the steward's wife. She can deliver the food baskets and prepare a list of what the tenants need for Boxing Day." Mrs. Nichols quiet voice carried a dearth of disapproval. She barely dropped a curtsey to Miss Bingley before departing the room.
"If you or your sisters discover a matter which requires my attention, please let me, Mrs. Mason or Mrs. Nichols know," Mr. Bingley commented to Lizzy.
"You should discuss the winter work for Netherfield Park with Papa. Each winter, the river banks are inspected and fortified to prevent flooding in the spring." Lizzy suggested to Bingley, noting Mr. Darcy's nod of approval. "If you are staying at Netherfield Park until Lady Day, Mrs. Nichols and Mrs. Mason could advise Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst regarding their duties."
'The superior sisters would never be proper young ladies…for there are customs and habits which the gentry pass from mother to daughter. They did not know those traditions because academies, seminaries and finishing schools cannot teach what they did not know.' Lizzy felt becoming landed gentry would be easier for Mr. Bingley because he had Mr. Darcy to guide him. He could learn to be a good master of an estate. He needed someone like Jane to polish the rough edges and help him achieve the respectability which he could not buy.
~X~
Lizzy would have preferred to stay upstairs in Jane's room with dinner trays. However, Bingley asked Lizzy to dine with he and his guests this evening for the fine turkey dinner. Lizzy ensured Jane drank tea and hot, savory turkey broth before she fell back asleep. Lizzy changed into a dark primrose silk gown with dark gold sash and lace. She visited Aunt Gardiner's modiste when she was in London last year. She wore the gown a dozen times for dinners. Betsy, the Netherfield maid, helped Lizzy dress and arranged her hair. Lizzy exited her room for the drawing room, meeting Mr. Darcy at the top of the stairs at the same time.
Darcy noticed Miss Elizabeth's dinner gown. He contemplated how well the Darcy topazes or emeralds would bring out the sparkle in her fine eyes. The classically cut gown suited her light and pleasing figure. He appreciated her intelligent countenance. Her smile flashed quick, and yet playful. Her manners were endearing, not because they were the height of fashion from the ton, but because they reflected sweetness and openness. Her warmth and kindness reminded him of Georgiana and his Aunt Constance, the Countess of Matlock.
Miss Elizabeth took his arm to descend the stairs and allowed him to escort her to the drawing room. Darcy noticed how gracefully she walked, not clinging to his arm like Miss Bingley would. Her warm melodic voice enchanted him. He hoped she might play and sing for them tonight. He took his time escorting her. However, they arrived at the drawing room a few moments before the butler announced dinner.
Bingley offered his arm to Miss Bingley. She took his arm but gave Lizzy a furious glance. Hurst escorted Louisa. In the dining room, Caroline tried to direct Darcy to sit next to her, but Bingley asked Darcy and Miss Elizabeth to sit next to him. He wanted to discuss tomorrow's inspection of Netherfield with Darcy after he discussed Miss Bennet's condition with Miss Elizabeth. Miss Bingley loudly discussed all the members of the ton they met before coming to Netherfield. Darcy and Bingley ignored the conversation between Caroline and Louisa. Hurst ignored them all and applied himself liberally to the fine turkey dinner and excellent white wine.
Elizabeth joined the conversation about Netherfield. When Darcy asked Elizabeth about her familiarity with the farms and the tenants, she explained Papa educated her, Jane, and Mary about the management of Longbourn's farms. As Longbourn neighbored Netherfield, she knew their steward and the tenant farmers. She knew which farm experienced flooding issues last spring. She knew which farm experienced the loss of poultry due to a predator. Mr. Bennet joined the hunting parties which eventually cleared a den of foxes from Mount Oakham. She agreed to review the plat map of Netherfield with Bingley and Darcy tomorrow morning before they met with Bingley's steward.
The men did not linger over port and cigars but joined the ladies in the drawing room immediately after dinner. While Miss Bingley selected cards as the evening's activity, Lizzy chose to read instead. She ignored the group gathered at the card table. Darcy's seat offered him the excellent view of Miss Elizabeth. He admired how the fire highlighted her chestnut curls and her alabaster skin. She had delicate, even features with a sweet mouth…and a determined chin. The thought of her flashing fine eyes when she debated amused him.
"Miss Eliza doesn't care to play cards. She is an avid reader who seeks to improve her wit," Miss Bingley announced while shuffling cards.
Lizzy snapped her book shut and walked to the open door of the drawing room. "I deserve no such censure or praise. I am not a great reader, and I enjoy many activities…archery, museums, theatre, art, music, singing, dancing…and laughing." Lizzy departed the drawing room for the quiet sanctuary of Jane's room.
'I never claimed to be a wit. However, I do know the difference between compliments and criticism. I should have insisted Miss Bingley call me Elizabeth, not Eliza, Liza, Liz, Beth, Betsy or Bess. Papa named me after a queen…not a cow.' The superior sisters had not set foot in Jane's room since the first day of her illness. Their inattention helped more than they knew. Jane would have attempted to be an excellent guest instead of resting as she should. Lizzy checked on Jane and discussed her condition with the housemaid Mrs. Nichols assigned to sit with Jane.
"Is your sister asleep?" Darcy's voice and presence in the hall halted Lizzy while she approached her room.
"She is asleep," Lizzy lowered her voice. "We can't meet here in the hall without…"
"A chaperone?" Darcy smiled, his dimples distracting Lizzy. "Hurst is foxed. Bingley and I took him to his room and left him in the excellent care of his valet. There is Bingley now, at the top of the stairs and my valet, Roberts, awaits at the end of the hall by my room. We are well chaperoned. Are you returning to the drawing room or retiring to your room?"
"I believe I will retire," Lizzy remarked. "I think Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst are tired of my pert opinions, country education and mediocre accomplishments."
"Please do not take what Miss Bingley says to heart," Darcy begged.
"I don't mind for myself. I can ignore her. However, I will refute her sly comments which demean my sisters." Lizzy insisted. 'For a lady who prides herself on being an excellent hostess, Miss Bingley is rude and quite unpleasant.'
Their brief conversations conflicted Darcy. No woman of his acquaintance or of the ton kept his mind and emotions reeling like Miss Elizabeth. Her conversation bantered and amused; he found, like a thirsty man, he needed more.
"I'm sorry," Lizzy offered a contrite apology. "Jane and I are imposing. Mama and our younger sisters called today, without a warning. I'm sure Miss Bingley is weary of our company and wishes us away to the four and twenty families who regularly dine at Longbourn."
"Must you go home on Saturday?" Darcy appeared uncomfortable when he inquired about the Bennet girls' plans.
"We must. I believe Papa is desperate for sensible conversation. He easily tires of discussions regarding fashions, laces and bonnets. I suspect Longbourn's dinner topics covered the amenities of Netherfield and the potential ball. Kitty and Lydia were full young the last time Netherfield hosted a ball. I'm sure Lydia and Kitty's raptures about dancing with officers are wearying." Lizzy did not feel she carried tales to the neighbors.
"If Bingley hosts a ball, and if you attend, may I have the first set and the supper set?" Darcy asked quickly before doubt censured his thoughts.
"Two sets, Mr. Darcy? I thought you didn't dance; especially not with young ladies who are merely tolerable or who have been slighted by other men." Lizzy could not resist teasing the man.
"I feared you heard me," Darcy blushed from contrition. "I know a true gentleman is expected to dance and ensure ladies do not languish for lack of partners. However, I weary of matchmaking mothers. I get my fill of society when I must attend ton events to please my aunt, the Countess of Matlock."
"Meryton and Hertfordshire failed to make good first impressions," Lizzy apologized. "Hertfordshire has no theatres or opera houses, no Hyde Park, Bond Street or Gunter's Ices. Meryton's Assembly Hall pales in comparison to Almack's. My family is too familiar with Netherfield's servants and tenants. Jane falling ill, my presence to nurse my sister, and my petticoats six inches deep in mud increased her disdain. Mary visiting Netherfield's tenants put Miss Bingley on the back foot. Plus, Lydia begged for a ball."
"I, on the other hand, gather too many vapid first impressions because of my name. I am a stranger in a town located four days from my home. Yet, everyone knows who I am and my portion?" Darcy posed one of the unending questions of his life. "Is there a broadsheet which contains my name, image, sketch of Pemberley, my portion and my connections?"
"I imagine Sir William told everyone. He attends St. James at least once during the Season. He knows the names and lineage of all peers of the realm. He proudly displays his full set of The Barontage." Lizzy attempted to distract Darcy.
"Sir William may have St. James. I don't care for the ton or London's society, although I do enjoy the theatre, opera, and bookstores. My sister Georgiana and I enjoy quiet picnics by our lake at Pemberley more than fashionable dinners of the ton." Darcy's dimples distracted Lizzy for a moment.
"Do you approve of Netherfield Park, Mr. Darcy?" Lizzy struggled to keep her voice moderated.
"Indeed, I do. The house is large and well-kept for a country manor. The land is a little neglected, but the property can be put to rights. Bingley is excellent company. I enjoy hunting, fishing and riding. I would prefer to do so at Pemberley. I enjoy my sister's company while we ride to distant points of our estate." Darcy's sudden loquaciousness surprised Lizzy.
"Most people prefer their home to society. I know Jane and I will rest easier when we return to Longbourn and our simple life."
"I envy you. For I will not return to my simple life until Christmas. Until then, I am at Netherfield Park, guiding Bingley while he learns property management." Darcy remarked. "You didn't answer my question."
"If Mr. Bingley hosts a ball at Netherfield and if I am invited, I will save the first set and the supper set for you. However, you must answer a question for me." Lizzy's eyebrow raised with a questioning look.
"I'm sorry I said you were tolerable. For some time now, I have felt you are the handsomest woman of my acquaintance." Darcy professed.
"I thank you for the compliment, but I did not seek it. The night of the assembly, you wore a frown every time I saw you. Everyone at the assembly felt you thought our society beneath you." Lizzy knew she was too inquisitive, but she had to ask.
"I frowned when I heard Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst take delight in denigrating everyone in Meryton to amuse themselves. I frowned when Miss Bingley sought my company to obtain a second set with me. She refused to dance with any man at the assembly, which hinted an attachment existed between us. I frowned when I saw Hurst in his cups. I frowned when I saw Bingley laughing and dancing. I frowned when I realized I would rather be in a quiet library with an intriguing book and a glass of brandy instead of cringing in corners to avoid matchmaking mothers. I wanted to throttle Bingley when he demanded I dance. But rather than explain I felt weary and desired rest, I insulted you. I am sorry I was so rude and beg your forgiveness." Darcy answered in earnest.
Lizzy admired the honesty in his look. "I forgive you, but I have one more question."
"So inquisitive Miss Elizabeth?" Darcy's eyebrows lifted.
"I am excessively tired. Will you give me leave to continue our conversation during a morning walk before breakfast if the weather holds?" Lizzy pled in the prettiest voice Darcy ever heard.
"Why do you like early morning walks?" Darcy knew the answer, but he desired to continue the conversation.
"With four sisters and a very excitable Mama, I enjoy starting my day with the quiet of nature. Papa, Jane, Mary and I keep country hours." Lizzy confessed.
"Goodnight then, Miss Elizabeth. I will meet you in the gardens if the weather is fine or in the morning room at ten. Bingley and I hope Miss Jane will join us for breakfast." Darcy bowed.
Lizzy curtsied and went to her room, ringing for the maid to help her dress for bed. While she selected a book for bed, Lizzy smothered her hysterics in her pillow. 'Mr. Bingley calls her Caro. I should call her Arrow, for her tongue is sharp and her comments rarely miss their mark.'
~X~
"We must find some way to distract Charles from offering for Jane Bennet. She is a sweet girl, but I don't believe she is manageable like Charles. I will bet you a new bonnet, trimmed in French lace, we will be out of this savage society before Christmas. I'm depending upon our friendship with Miss Darcy. Before the first of December, we will be invited to Pemberley for a Christmas house party which lasts through the end of January." Caroline raised her sherry glass to Louisa.
Caroline felt determined to make Darcy come to his senses! Darcy threw his cousin Anne over to moon over Eliza Bennet who had no beauty, no manners and no dowry. Caroline would not forfeit her chance to become Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy. If she lost Darcy to a pretty first circle debutante with a large dowry and an exalted lineage, she would curse her luck…and then pursue Darcy for his protection. Darcy could leave his wife at Pemberley while he escorted Caroline to first circle soirees and events."What do you think about Mary Bennet calling on our tenants?" Louisa brushed her hair after her maid departed. "I think the Bennet girls calling on Netherfield Park's tenants shows us in a very bad light."
"Mary Bennet has no elegance, no conversation and no desirable accomplishments. She is an insufferable blue stocking, and a strict organizer and manager." Caroline disparaged Mary. "We will be gone in a few weeks. There is no sense fretting over changing everything now. We won't care about their country ways once we return to London."
Thursday, November 5Darcy broached the subject of the tenants with Miss Elizabeth when she joined Bingley and him for the discussion of Netherfield Park. A footman delivered a tray of coffee to the library. Lizzy prepared coffee perfectly for both men. Darcy was surprised because Miss Bingley still asked how he took his coffee or tea after three years. He enjoyed the way Miss Elizabeth laid a serviette and cutlery for each man before she prepared the coffee. She waited for them to approve of their cup before she busied herself setting out small plates and passing the basket of pastries. Then she served herself. Coffee black, lightly sweet…Darcy noted for future reference.
"Papa encouraged us to accompany him to fields, orchards, stables, barns, woods and park. Papa asked thoughtful questions to ensure we learned about the estate. We know how to mind the gardens and orchards. We know the tasks completed by the brewery, distillery and dairy. We learned various farm tasks by toiling with tenants and staff." Once Lizzy turned five and ten, she joined Jane to call on tenants. "Longbourn lends itself to natural divisions – the house and park have flower gardens and a copse. The main farm includes kitchen and herb gardens, orchards, barns and stables, poultry and livestock, along with the brewery, distillery, dairy, washhouse and other outbuildings. Woods separate the main farm from the tenant properties."
Bingley requested a refill on his coffee. "What is the first thing you would do," he inquired of Darcy.
"I would complete my tour of the estate. You should wake when your staff and tenants wake. Early morning is when the work begins. You will gain a better sense of tasks and duties." Darcy replied.
"I know…country life…country hours." Bingley sighed. "Will you ask Roberts to ensure Cardel wakes me when Roberts wakes you?"
~X~
"Miss Eliza Bennet, let me persuade you to follow my example and take a turn about the room. I assure you it is very refreshing after sitting so long in one attitude." Caroline noticed Darcy sitting near Eliza, pausing his reading intermittently to observe Eliza reading. If he watched Eliza…then she would walk beside Caroline. Darcy would not miss the superiority of Caroline's posture, her walk, and her attire compared to the unfashionable Eliza Bennet.
"I think not," Lizzy demurred. "For if I accepted your kind invitation to walk about the room…I should be obliged to invite you to walk the gardens with me in the morning. I can be the cause of my own dirtied hems. However, I could not inflict such an appalling situation upon my hostess." Lizzy returned to her book…missing Darcy's smothered smile.
Caroline's eyes narrowed, and she continued her stroll about the edges of the room…furious she did not have Darcy's attention as she planned.
Friday, November 6Darcy and Lizzy did not take their early morning walk in the Netherfield gardens. An unusually alert Miss Bingley hovered by the main staircase. Eventually Miss Bingley was summoned to attend the kitchens. Mrs. Nichols notified Miss Bingley when farms delivered food stuffs. The mistress of the house attended such tasks and adapted her menus to use delivered farm goods.
Darcy slipped out of his room and roused Bingley. Darcy opined the day dawned perfectly for an early morning ride. Within days of their arrival, he took Bingley to the fields where the farm workers cut and collected the wheat. Women tied the wheat into sheaves and carried the golden stalks to waiting farm carts. They could not ride the fields, but Netherfield Park boasted several excellent riding paths. He would accompany Bingley while completing his tour of Netherfield.
~X~
"Will you join your family in Cheapside for the holidays, Miss Eliza? I can't imagine Cheapside offers theatre, concerts or amusement." Caroline Bingley inquired with a sneer while pouring her tea at breakfast.
"How well do you know Cheapside…or do you avoid Cheapside because of the name?" Lizzy's question pricked Bingley's calm exterior, vexed Caroline Bingley, and intrigued Darcy.
"Cheapside?" Louisa frowned. "I can't remember ever visiting there…not even when Father purchased our home in London. He took us on several carriage rides to show us parts of London."
"Cheapside is not fashionable," Caroline insisted. "Cheapside is filled with cits, bankers and merchants."
"Cheapside is a clean and accessible shopping area in London. The name, Cheapside, does not denote a slum. The name is derived from a Saxton word for market." Lizzy informed the superior sisters.
"How do you know that?" Darcy inquired.
"Some of us read to improve our minds," Lizzy applied herself to breakfast so she could return to Jane.
"I'm sure you would not visit Cheapside, Mr. Darcy," Caroline tittered.
"You are quite mistaken, Miss Bingley. One of Georgiana and my favorite bookstores, Parker's Periodicals, is located in Cheapside." Darcy commented. He enjoyed the astonishment of the Bingley sisters, and the approval of Miss Elizabeth.
"I am glad to hear your regard for Parker's Periodicals," Lizzy sipped her tea before nibbling her hot roll.
"You patronize Parker's Periodicals?" Darcy continued the conversation.
"My uncle, Edward Gardiner, of Gardiner's Emporium, is a partner in Parker's Periodicals. My father patronizes them." Lizzy explained. "Parker's Periodicals is one of my favorite bookstores in London."
"Georgiana adores Hatchard's Books," Darcy commented.
"I find the newest books, approved by the ton, are available at Hatchard's Books. Older books, or less popular books, are easier to locate through Parker's Periodicals." Lizzy noted. "Miss Lucas obtained her astronomy book from Parker's Periodicals."
Caroline frowned throughout the conversation. She huffed a couple times while drowning her comments in large gulps of tea and bits of crumbled hot rolls which she tore apart while thinking about ripping out Eliza Bennet's chestnut curls.
Monday, November 9
"Two letters of importance came in the post this morning," Papa announced in the drawing room after dinner. "The first letter is from my cousin, Mr. Collins." He read the letter aloud to his astonished wife and daughters.
"I will endeavor to welcome him since he comes this way to make peace with you. We'll wait to see what he means by making amends to our daughters. Jane and I will discuss meals and his room arrangements with Hill. I may have misjudged him. Mayhap he plans to forfeit the entail." Mama pronounced.
"I do not believe nor hope he is willing to alter the entail. The tone of his letter tells me he is a pompous, insensible man. The entail will not be mentioned, nor discussed, while Mr. Collins is here. I will penalize pin moneys if my order is disregarded or circumvented. The other letter is an invitation to a ball, given by Mr. Charles Bingley and sisters at Netherfield Park two Fridays hence. However, since Mr. Collins is not invited, I am required to stay home with him. I do not want anyone to ask for an invitation to the ball for Mr. Collins. I would prefer our neighbors did not learn what a silly cousin I have." Papa announced.
"My dear Mr. Bennet," his lady sighed. "Jane must go, for you know how much Mr. Bingley favored her at the Meryton Assembly. Lizzy must chaperone Jane and Mr. Bingley. We cannot leave Miss Bingley or the horrid Mr. Darcy to chaperone them. Kitty and Lydia do love a dance. Mary does not like balls, so she may stay to help you entertain Mr. Collins."
"Why should Mary miss amusements which her younger sisters attend," Papa argued. "I don't need help to entertain Mr. Collins. He won't desire much more than a good dinner, a glass of port, and an early night since he traveled from Kent. Tis fifty miles, a full day's travel, no matter if the weather is good or bad."
"I would not mind staying, Papa." Mary did not look up from the herb pictures she drew for Lizzy. She drew the picture of Bee Balm, with its seed and flower in pencil, then traced over her drawings with ink. She had a blotter, and her stillroom book at the ready. "As Mr. Bingley will hire musicians, I will not be needed to play music for dancing. I will not be expected to bake honey biscuits or monitor the refreshments all evening. Since I'm not attending, Mother will insist I allow Lydia to borrow and ruin my white silk gloves, my newest silk stockings or my best ribbons." Mary's voice may have been calm, but her words stung.
Kitty and Lydia launched into an argument of who would borrow Mary's brown velvet cloak. Lydia asserted the cloak would look better with the wine ribbons and embroidery on her cream ball gown. Kitty argued the cloak would fit her best. Lydia announced everything looked best on her. Kitty claimed her pink silk coming out gown would show off the cloak better.
Papa interrupted their argument. "You are a good daughter, Mary. However, I feel you should attend the ball to limit your younger sisters' glasses of wine punch and limit their flirting with officers. But, I shall ruin your younger sisters' fun by forbidding you to loan your finery. I shall penalize your mother's pin money should your sisters come home in their cups…or brag about how many officers they danced with…or if I hear any gossip about my family that evening." Papa's eyes twinkled at Mary. "If you will help me entertain our cousin, I would be obliged to obtain some new sheet music for you."
"Thank you, Papa," Mary concentrated on her drawings.
"I don't know how we shall bear the ball," Lydia whined. "Mr. Wickham travels to London to put his business affairs in order. He plans to marry ugly, freckled Miss King and her £10,000. We can only hope Miss King finds someone she prefers better at the Netherfield Ball, releasing Mr. Wickham!"
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Mary commented, turning the dry page to list the planting and care instructions for Bee Balm. "I'm sure Miss King's £10,000 makes her quite handsome in the eyes of a fortune hunter. I would be surprised if Miss King's uncle allows such an uneven match. Her fortune would ensure a good marriage to a landed gentleman with an estate, not an impoverished militia man."
"If I had £10,000, I could marry who I pleased." Lydia preened in the mirror.
"You may marry who you please when you are of age. Until then, you must have my permission to wed," Papa decreed. "I will only allow courtships once the gentleman proves he is in possession of a living or a fortune. Wickham has no funds; you have no funds. I will not allow such a mean living for any of my daughters. Grand stories will pale if your future husband is unable to provide a roof over your head or meat on the table."
"If Mr. Darcy relents and gives Mr. Wickham the living he deserves…" Lydia's ignorant comment vexed Mary.
"I would not bet or bank on Mr. Wickham's claims against Mr. Darcy. As we are well aware…wills and entails cannot be broken or ignored with impunity. Therefore, Mr. Wickham must not have met the conditions of the will, or the living would have been his. He must think since we live in the country, we will believe his claims." Mary never looked up from her work. "Anyone who lies thusly should not be a cleric."
Mama shook her head at Lydia and Kitty. She did not want to engage Mary in philosophical debates.
"Lydia, using your beauty to secure a better life for yourself is one thing. However, if beauty is the only virtue you have, you best hope you have it for a long time." Papa remarked.
"I'm not worried," Lydia tossed her head. "I take after Mama and you said she is as handsome as the rest of us."
"Yes," Papa agreed. "You are as silly as your mother also."
"I still think you should broach the subject of the entail with Mr. Collins when he comes." Mama argued.
Thomas Bennet cursed his luck at that moment…no son and a silly wife who became sillier with each passing year. "I weary of this conversation, so I repeat myself…I will penalize pin money of anyone who mentions or references the entail while Mr. Collins visits. Please discuss lace while I am in my library. However, Mrs. Bennet…you promised to economize. Think carefully before promising new gowns to everyone…as Mary will not be slighted and will receive her share." Papa departed. 'If I had set aside £10,000 years ago, I would now have £20,000 to bribe worthy young men to marry my girls. Lizzy is correct when she says all they have are their charms and accomplishments to recommend them. I have counted on having a son…and I hope to have a grandson. I have yet to be impressed with the men who my wife deem acceptable. The uncontested knowledge of the entail keeps fortune hunters from compromising my daughters."
"Jane, you shall have a new ballgown," Mrs. Bennet decreed. "You will want to look your best, as I am sure the ball is being given in your honor. I'm sure Mr. Bingley will use the event to announce an understanding between you."
"My gown is two years old and a hand-me-down from Jane! I deserve a new gown!" Lydia argued. "Why should Jane get the new gown just because she is the oldest?"
"You had new gowns in June. I know one of them is presentable for the ball."
"Mama, I saved my pocket money and can help purchase a new ballgown." Jane's offer stopped Lydia from whining about a new ballgown.
"Mr. Bennet insists we economize, but you may have a new wine-colored sash. All of you girls may have new sashes and ribbons…including you, Mary." Mama dismissed Lydia's arguments.
Mary and Lizzy concentrated on their own tasks to avoid being ignored by Mama who discussed Jane's ideas about a new ballgown.
"If Mama knew the gossip you might hear, she wouldn't dismiss you so easily," Lizzy whispered to Mary. Lizzy felt she should champion her sister against Mama's edicts.
"Imagine what Charlotte and I have endured. Not pretty enough, too serious, not socially adept, and no dowry to tempt an offer from a decent man. I know Miss Bingley despairs of ever getting away from the pretty, educated and accomplished Bennet girls. Miss Bingley's grandfather was a tradesman. Our grandfather was a gentleman. She may have a dowry and a legacy, but she does not understand a lady does not discuss funds." Mary finished a drawing and turned to the next page to list planting and growing tips, preservation tips, and receipts for usage.
"We don't court her company either." Lizzy whispered to Mary while watching her work.
"Mr. Bingley can afford to marry where he chooses, which worries Miss Bingley. Since Jane has experience working with Netherfield's staff and tenants, she could easily step into the role of mistress of Netherfield Park. Jane would help Mr. Bingley establish an estate, and he would be a worthy husband for her. They are so alike…kind, amiable, and not great readers. Did Miss Bingley change the décor of the library?" Mary continued with the herb book she started for Lizzy.
Lizzy shook her head no. "When Miss Bingley says she will be miserable if she does not have an excellent library, I think she means she will be miserable if she is not the mistress of Pemberley!" Lizzy smiled and returned to her book.
"Will she be miserable when Mr. Darcy hides from her in his excellent library? You are used to Papa hiding in his study/library to avoid Mother. Of course, if Mr. Darcy is anything like Papa, he will invite you to spend lots of time in his library and enjoy his books." Mary teased her sister.
A dreamy look settled on Lizzy's face.
"I shall leave you to ponder the joys of Mr. Darcy and his fine library." Mary didn't read romantic novels. Romeo and Juliet and the confused lovers from Midsummer Night's Dream were her only guides. However, Mary was sure Lizzy was in a fair way of falling in love with the tall and taciturn Mr. Darcy. 'Opposites attract, indeed.'
~X~
Georgiana Darcy occupied her sitting room at the Matlock House, patiently white working a complex pattern on a white gauze fichu she planned to give Mrs. Annesley for Christmas. She enjoyed the fire and her tea tray with strong green tea, petite apple tarts and nut biscuits. Georgiana appreciated autumn. She was especially thrilled to be busy with lessons and unable to attend the Netherfield Park house party.
Miss Bingley's current letter raised questions. The questions about charitable giving and visiting tenants seemed invasive. 'What is she planning? Does she hope for an invitation to Pemberley for Christmas? She knows nothing about providing for tenants?' Georgiana hoped William would consult her before inviting the Bingleys to Pemberley or the Darcy House for Christmas. Mayhap she should write William regarding her concerns. She should discuss Christmas with Aunt Constance. A holiday invitation for the Darcys to Matlock Estate or to Matlock House would thwart Miss Bingley's desire for an invitation to Pemberley or Darcy House.
~X~
Miss Bingley opened her correspondence, noting none of her friends wanted to abandon Little Season in London. She would have only Louisa to help her endure the Netherfield Ball. Caroline did not consider her description of Hertfordshire stopped most of the invited from accepting the invitation. She hoped hinting at Charles and Georgiana Darcy's understanding would elevate the guests at her soiree.
~X~
Darcy stared into the fire burning merrily away in the brown stone fireplace of his room. The rain kept the men from riding out and enjoying sport. His guest room provided sanctuary from Miss Bingley and her incessant criticism of Hertfordshire, or her incessant fawning compliments of anything Darcy. He tired of continual discussions of ball preparations. Roberts had orders to tell everyone Darcy had business letters to write. Behind closed doors he could read, drink brandy, and stare morosely into the fire.
'There no comparison between the two women. Miss Bingley may have a seminary education, but Elizabeth has better conversation, and better knowledge of the world. Elizabeth's eyes twinkle with mirth, Miss Bingley's narrow with jealousy, anger or derision. Miss Bingley has a dowry and legacy, but Elizabeth is worth more than gold and rubies. Elizabeth and her sisters are no more responsible for their uncle in trade than Miss Bingley is for a father and grandfather in trade. I am lucky because Father was a gentleman with a large estate and Mother was the daughter of an earl. I suppose I should send a thank you note to Wickham for teaching me how to avoid people who seek to use me to advance themselves.'
Wednesday, November 11
"Dearest Eliza!" Charlotte greeted her warmly. "My book has come at last!" They stood close together and admired the book, carefully turning pages and discussing each one.
"Ladies," Darcy joined them. "A new novel?"
"Mr. Darcy must believe we are insipid creatures," Charlotte teased.
"Indeed, he must think we have the third of a three-volume novel written by a lady," Lizzy remarked.
"I would not think so meanly of ladies who are eager to share a book with one another." Darcy hid his disapproval of their teasing behind his curiosity. Bingley sat near Miss Bennet, conversing with her. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst monitored the conversation with Hurst offering an utterance or two.
"Tis nothing more than dreams and night skies," Charlotte affirmed.
"Stars, constellations?" Darcy did not feign interest in the topic to avoid Miss Bingley.
"One of Papa's friends, Sir Templeton, showed us his telescope last year when we visited London. We watched the stars for hours on a moonless night." Charlotte explained. "He recommended this book. We've been on a waiting list for a year. The book outlines the major stellar bodies, discusses the concept of shooting stars, and maps the location and layout of two hundred stars."
"Are you interested in astronomy, Miss Elizabeth?" Darcy wondered if she enjoyed stars as much as she favored warm sunshine.
"I am fond of learning. I do not know if I will ever navigate by stars and a sextant, but I find constellations an interesting topic. Charlotte explained the superstition of wishing on a falling star dates to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Come to Papa's library. I hear nothing compares to the great library at Darcy House or Pemberley, but Papa's library suits us."
"Do you know you can rarely see the stars in London?" Charlotte asked Darcy. "Viewing the stars is easier in the country. I was surprised to learn the moon looks upside down when viewed by someone in Van Deem's Land."
Lizzy led the way, interrupting a game of chess between Sir William and Papa. "We're discussing books," she assured them. Darcy roamed the library, scanning book titles, and pronouncing Mr. Bennet owned a fine collection. Occasionally he asked Mr. Bennet where he procured a certain book. He promised to call at Gardiner's Emporium and Parker's Periodicals.
Thus began an interesting conversation of stars and superstitions, Greek and Roman gods, and classic literature between Darcy, the Lucases and the Bennets. After dinner the men gathered over their port and cigars, discussing the harvest season. The favorable autumn weather allowed a late wheat harvest. However, the men discussed the temporary fluctuation in the wheat prices. Sir William reported several local farmers prepared farms for the spring.
Mary quietly played the pianoforte after dinner and during the setting of card tables. Lydia pouted because her charms diverted no one into losing to her. After two hours of cards, she only won two farthings from Mr. Hurst. She pulled a face when Mr. Bennet warned her to enter her winnings in her ledger.