Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 5
The Sunday Garden Party – March 14
"I will show you how to field a bow," Richard gallantly paired with Anne during the archery portion of the garden party. He stood close behind her, wrapping his hands around hers, showing her how to place the arrow, draw the bow and release. He knew the ton preferred tall, willowy blondes like Georgiana or Jane Bennet for the last few Seasons, but he preferred petite blondes, like Anne. He felt protective of Anne.
Darcy enjoyed being paired with Elizabeth. He told her about the express he received from Bingley the previous day. Bingley attended an assembly in Meryton on Friday evening and danced with Jane. He invited Mr. Bennet to shoot with him Saturday…or perhaps he invited Mr. Bennet to shoot him. Darcy laughed at Bingley's letter which contained more blotches, scratches and missing words than a school boy's slate. The important point of Bingley's letter…he is courting Miss Bennet.
"Oh, I am ever so glad for them. Jane esteems Mr. Bingley highly and claims he is the most amiable man of her acquaintance. Perhaps I will receive a letter from her Monday, sharing her happiness and plans with her sisters. Does Miss Bingley know Mr. Bingley is at Netherfield?" Lizzy concentrated on fielding her bow. When she partnered with Darcy, she secretly hoped she had practiced enough in the past to exhibit respectably.
"No, Miss Bingley believes Bingley attends business and finance meetings in London. Since they left Netherfield last November, Bingley ceased tolerating his sisters' attitudes and social climbing intentions. At the end of February, Bingley delivered his sister to his aunt in Scarborough. Mrs. Stafford has a modest fortune, a small estate, and little tolerance for Miss Bingley's self-important airs. Mrs. Stafford proposed to reduce Miss Bingley's pin money by five pounds each time she misbehaved. Mrs. Stafford guaranteed such stringent measures would moderate Miss Bingley's behavior." Darcy spoke with affectionate regard for his friend.
'Arrow will be wearing last year's fashions because she cannot curb her tongue.' Lizzy felt pleased when her shots hit the targets. She would not allow Caroline Bingley to ruin her afternoon.
They stopped chatting when they heard cries of excitement from Richard and Anne. "You are a natural," he cried. "Weekly archery practice over the summer will make you a most desirable partner…archery partner," he explained himself to beautiful blushes by Anne.
Kitty helped Mary show Mr. Collins how to field the bow. They corrected his stance. He improved steadily while they shot. Curate Stevenson partnered with Charlotte. She had never practiced archery before. Charlotte laughed at her worst mistakes and continued to improve through the exercise. Curate Stevenson revealed he liked hunting for birds with a bow and arrow. He thought a bow and arrow provided a sporting chance for the birds. Besides, he revealed, more birds visited the small copse bordering his leased property than larger prey. He set snares for smaller animals like rabbits, and created his own fish traps which he set from Lady Day to Michaelmas. Charlotte suggested Curate Stevenson trade fish traps to Mary for foraging lessons. Mary taught her to forage the forest between Lucas Lodge and Meryton for ramps, mushrooms, tender greens, savory sorrel, along with fruits from wild bushes or trees. Charlotte laughed and admitted she could not resist wildflowers either. Mary taught her how to dry petals for soaps, waters, candles and sachets.
Mrs. Jenkinson and Mrs. Gardiner sat in the shade and embroidered. Mrs. Gardiner did not care for Miss Anne's companion. However, she would keep Mrs. Jenkinson from interfering with Miss Anne. While Mrs. Jenkinson spoke amiably with Mrs. Gardiner, she could not fuss over the sun, the wind, and if Miss Anne needed a warmer spencer or a shawl. Although Mrs. Gardiner could not prevent Mrs. Jenkinson's occasional mutters. "Good heavens, no bonnet or parasol? Lady Catherine would not approve!" Mrs. Gardiner felt her presence kept Mrs. Jenkinson from demanding Miss Anne cease her activities and take a rest. Fresh air and sunshine were beneficial to everyone.
Darcy and Fitzwilliam conducted a fencing demonstration for the garden party before staff served tea. Fitzwilliam enjoyed sparring with Darcy. The sun glinted off the foils as they fenced. None of the ladies were overwhelmed with fear the men would injure one another. Darcy and Fitzwilliam were equally matched in skill and competitiveness. Their movements were graceful and athletic. The fencing demonstration ended in a draw and a friendly handshake.
Mrs. Gardiner kept Mrs. Jenkinson occupied pouring tea and serving refreshments. Darcy showed the library to Curate Stevenson, and the guests from Hunsford Parsonage. While Mr. Collins discussed Lady Catherine's letter with Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mary advised Anne someone watched them and reported their activities.
"I am decided," Anne laughed. "After dinner, my music master can play the pianoforte while my dance master gives us dance lessons. I'm sure Mrs. Jenkinson will be anxious to return to her chambers. She will write a long letter to Mother relating yesterday's outing and today's activities. She is unaware Uncle Reginald watches the post and expresses which come to Matlock House. He sends me regular correspondence, listing who writes Mother."
~X~
Anne created a handful of menus with Mrs. Gibbons when she knew she would invite guests to Saturday riding parties with picnics, Sunday garden parties, and Sunday dinner. Anne downsized the standard five and twenty dishes served at dinner to six dishes per three courses. She included several of Richard's favorite French recipes – seafood bisque, baked salmon stuffed with lobster or baked turbot with French herbs, coq au vin, roast pork with French Mustard Sauce, French Beans, Brussel Sprouts with vinaigrette, and Potatoes Dauphinoise. She included William's favorite beef steaks with Carmeline sauce, her favorite asparagus in crust, and large portions of Mary's creamed new peas and new potatoes. She included Mary's suggestion of offering fruit dishes to finish the meal: spring cherry custard tart, brandied pears, strawberry cream or a cheese plate with sugared grapes from the orangery. Richard spent two hours in the cellar, separating good wines from barely tolerable ones. He suggested donating the barely tolerable wines to tenants as a bonus for signing leases on Lady Day, or adding the wines to tenant baskets at Easter. Otherwise, he advocated sending cases of swill to the de Bourgh House. William usually visited Rosings with his traveling tantalizer case. This trip, he brought a case of good brandy, decent port, and exceptional sherry.
Bless William and Richard! They encouraged Anne to lead the conversation and helped her ignore Mr. Collins' elucidations and Mrs. Jenkinson's interruptions. 'No, the fragrance of the flowers does not overwhelm…no, we did not need more plate laid…Darcy can carve. I do not need a shawl…the room is not drafty. No, the soup is not too hot… no, this French food is not too rich…no, the beef is not too salty… no, I will not partake of barley water instead of wine…'
Miss Anne invited her masters to eat dinner with her guests to distract Mrs. Jenkinson and Mr. Collins. Mrs. Gardiner would question the masters, Mrs. Jenkinson and Mr. Collins about educating her children. Her children had a governess who taught history, globes and science classes from breakfast to midday. From midday to an hour before dinner, the governess taught grammar, literature, sums, and French. She would ask Mrs. Jenkinson what accomplishments and education she could expect from a companion for her daughters. She would begin a debate regarding sending daughters to boarding school.
Mrs. Jenkinson opined a good governess and companion provided sufficient education for a girl. She explained the fee for a female boarding school did not include the costs for accomplishments such as art, music, fancy needlework, dancing and French. Mrs. Gardiner asked Mr. Collins and the masters about their education because her two sons were approaching the age of acceptance to a boarding school. Currently they attended a day school, which educated them in history, geography, sciences, literature and sums in addition to French.
"Mr. Collins," Anne stopped before departing the formal dining room. "The sexes are separating."
"Lady Catherine…" Mr. Collins defended his actions.
"Lady Catherine is not here. My uncle, the Sixth Earl of Matlock, insists on separation of the sexes in his home. I feel certain Mother follows the expected standards at Matlock House. I insist you stay with the men. Perhaps you won't indulge in drinking port and smoking cigars, but I believe their topics of conversation will be edifying. Ladies…shall we continue to the drawing room?" Anne felt Mr. Collins and Mrs. Jenkinson should be separated…as often as possible. Mme. de la Coeur, her French master, discussed speaking French and recommended reading French literature. Mrs. Radley, the art master, discussed French Romantic painters. Mrs. Jenkinson embroidered instead of joining the conversation.
Darcy and Fitzwilliam asked the music master to discuss Grand Tours which he led or attended. They discussed the amount of learning which accompanied the Grand Tour – language, countries, classical literature, history, etc. They discussed paintings, sculptures and museums.
Monday, March 16
"Have I told you how much I dislike the new bonnets? I feel as if I am wearing an infantry drum on my head." Anne quickly removed her white silk bonnet decorated with sky blue ribbons, lace and flowers to match her new spring pelisse and gloves. When Anne took delivery of her new wardrobe, she brought the remainder of her old clothes from Rosings to remake for the poor. She included the ugly accessories which accompanied the muddy browns, depressing greys, and muted greens.
Mary laughed with her. "For once I am thankful to be a vicar's wife and not required to follow the newest rages from town. Although I admit, I did enjoy seeing the new fashion plates from the modiste. I think she's done a lovely job with your new wardrobe."
"Thank you, however I have a reason for my visit," Anne smiled. "Although I enjoy visiting the parsonage, we need to plan Easter baskets for the needy. I thought we would deliver them either on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. I'd like to order supplies from Mrs. Gardiner. I've spoken to Fitzwilliam and Darcy. They will host a shooting party two days before delivering the basket. We'll put the birds they shoot in the baskets. Mr. Knowles explained we have hares and hens which can be butchered for the baskets also."
"Very well," Mary offered her a chair in the sitting room. "Ladies, we need to plan for the charity baskets for Easter."
Anne took a list from her reticule and they began planning.
"Be sure to add extra lengths of muslin to the list." Charlotte suggested. "I think putting supplies in bags is excellent. Especially if the family uses them after Easter."
"Mrs. Gardiner brought me the scrap basket from Gardiner's Emporium and end pieces from muslin bolts. Additionally, I have muslin bits from dressmaking. I will purchase material scraps from the Hunsford modiste, tailor and draper. Perhaps my guests and staff can help me stitch food bags for dried food and nuts. Can you stay for midday?" Mary offered. "Mrs. Manning prepares bacon and asparagus tartlets, cold ham, sliced cheese, fresh garden stuff, and herbed inn bread with fresh butter. We have fresh strawberries and grapes from your orangery."
"Midday with you sounds delightful. I'll send a note to Fitzwilliam and Darcy, suggesting they give Mr. Collins a riding lesson. They can have a picnic lunch and fish this afternoon," Anne suggested. "I will send a note to Curate Stevenson to advise on the contents of the baskets. We should ask the benefice society to help prepare the baskets."
Wednesday
"Mrs. Collins," Mrs. Manning entered her sitting room. "We have a disaster. Rose dropped the mustard pot on the hearth after filling it. We don't have enough mustard for tonight's dinner and the shopkeeper is closed."
"How much remains?"
"Six or eight tablespoons in the mixing bowl."
Mary consulted her receipt ideas and musings. "Make a small batch of béchamel sauce without spices, three cups worth. Stir the remaining mustard into the sauce with a pinch of pepper, two tablespoons of sherry, and two tablespoons of honey. Heat and serve with the pork chops in a sauce dish. Don't serve in a sauce boat, because the guests will pour more than they should. Use a soup spoon with the sauce bowl. Three cups should serve the table quite well. Monday, we will visit the shopkeeper in Westerham to buy supplies. If anyone asks, it is Sherry Mustard Sauce. I need the receipt after dinner to make copies before you add the receipt to your kitchen receipts."
~X~
"This sauce is delightful!" Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed. The other guests shared her delight.
"I think Papa would like this sauce. Will you share the receipt with me?" Lizzy requested.
"After dinner, I will make copies. We didn't entertain during our first few months here at Hunsford Parsonage. I developed new receipts. For dessert, I took a Cherry Almond Cake receipt and created Cherry Almond Rout Cakes. Soak dried sweet cherries in brandy, drain them and chop them finely. Use twice the almonds from the cake receipt and chop them finely. We had them during the benefice society meeting today. They are one of Mr. Collins' favorites."
Mr. Collins smiled fondly at Mary. "They are one of my favorites, but I still prefer her apple raisin cake. I love the smell of roasted chicken and cinnamon in the apple cake."
"We could use rain for the gardens," Mary acknowledged. "Until we get a good soaking rain, we'll be watering gardens in the mornings before breakfast."
Conversation centered on Mrs. Gardiner, and her soon return to London.
March at Hunsford Parsonage
Lizzy developed new appreciation for Mary. Her sister woke early, working in the gardens until breakfast if the weather held. She guided her servants to care for the new animals and help in the garden. If the weather appeared grey and wet, Mary spent her time in her sitting room with sewing, correspondence, or her household accounts. Mary hoped for two good days of rain to help the gardens and orchards grow. However, she showed the staff and her guests how to brew comfrey tea and water the gardens. She added the solid comfrey bits to her compost pile.
Mary's maid, Barlow, seemed to understand Lizzy's schedule. After dressing Mary, she brought Lizzy hot water and helped her dress. Mary asked Lizzy to forage while she walked in the woods of Rosings. If Lizzy couldn't find mushrooms, ramps or wild greens, she picked baskets of wildflowers. She made lovely arrangements of flowers for the dining tables and for Mary's sitting room. Some mornings, if she did not meet Darcy or Fitzwilliam on her walks, she returned early to the parsonage for herb and kitchen garden lessons from Mary.
With the dozen or more eggs available daily, Mary instructed Mrs. Manning to cook a hot breakfast on cool days. Mr. Collins appreciated hot meals before he visited the sick, infirm or dying of Hunsford Rectory. He appreciated the soups and stews kept warm if he had a late night. No longer were Sexton and Mrs. Tucker or Curate Stevenson to call on the sick or infirm, unless they accompanied Mr. Collins. Anne worked with Mr. Knowles to acquire a good riding horse for Mr. Collins' use when calling on parishioners. Mr. Knowles helped him purchase black tack, saddle bags and riding gloves to wear with his black greatcoat which kept most of the road dirt off his clothes. Mary bought him a set of clothing brushes to keep in his saddlebag. He could dust off before entering parishioners' homes. He used the one horse gig on days he distributed baskets from Rosings Park to the sick and infirm.
Mrs. Thompson, Anne's needlework master, accompanied Anne to the shops to acquire sewing needs. For a week, Anne hemmed pieces of muslin for handkerchiefs, which she gave to Mrs. Havens for the staff. For the remainder of March, Anne learned to sew seams for muslin food bags for the Easter charity baskets. Mrs. Thompson taught Kitty an easy way to embroider roses. She taught Kitty to embroider lengths of ribbon for embellishing gowns and bonnets. She taught Charlotte more complex stitches. She carefully examined Mary's collection of botanical patterns and offered to sew two mob caps in exchange for Mary drawing twelve botanical patterns which Mrs. Thompson could keep. Mrs. Thompson gladly joined the benefice society on Friday afternoons, sewing for the betterment of the poor. In the few hours the society met, Mrs. Thompson pieced nine-patch quilt tops from fabric squares which Lizzy cut. Mrs. Adams and her two widowed sisters offered to turn the quilt tops into quilts for children and babies. Anne established an account for Mrs. Thompson and the widowed sisters at the draper so they could obtain the materials they needed.
Mrs. Jenkinson protested the hiring of Mrs. Thompson. She asserted her sewing lessons with Anne were adequate, because she understood when Miss Anne fatigued. She refused to read lessons aloud when Anne rested, as Lady Catherine insisted on absolute quiet when Anne rested. Because Anne only received irregular lessons from Mrs. Jenkinson, she welcomed Mrs. Thompson's consistent tutoring. Anne requested Mrs. Jenkinson supervise the maids while cleaning and inventorying rooms. She asked Mrs. Jenkinson to update the Rosings Park catalogue so she did not interrupt Anne's lessons. She disapproved of Miss Anne's masters, and disliked becoming a chaperone when she had been Miss Anne's governess and companion.
Mary helped Anne develop a schedule for working with her masters. Before breakfast Anne worked with her French master. During breakfast Darcy or Fitzwilliam read the newspapers to Anne and anyone at the breakfast table. Anne noted places which were mentioned. She wanted to find them on the globe and map during her morning lessons. From breakfast to midday, Anne worked with her general education master. At midday meal, she discussed newspaper topics with Darcy and Fitzwilliam After midday, Anne worked with Darcy, learning estate business. During afternoon respite and tea, Anne received needlework lessons from Mrs. Thompson. Before dinner Anne received art lessons. During dinner, she discussed literature with her masters, Darcy and Fitzwilliam. After dinner, Darcy and Fitzwilliam enjoyed being entertained by Anne and her music master.
When not teaching Anne, the masters kept busy also. Anne's general education master helped the upper level staff improve their abilities. The art master cleaned, repaired and updated the art catalogue for Rosings Park. The music master provided pianoforte and harp lessons at the rectory for interested ladies of Hunsford and Westerham. She led discussions during Anne's riding parties about important composers and music. The dance master agreed to give dance lessons at the assembly hall for those who wanted to learn new dances.
Mary practiced duets with Anne on the pianoforte on weekends. Lizzy enjoyed reading and sharing books with Anne. Kitty taught Anne to create floral arrangements. Charlotte helped Anne finesse her menus. Fitzwilliam enjoyed teaching Anne archery and horseback riding. Darcy eagerly taught about estate business. Everyone, except Mrs. Jenkinson, supported Anne's masters and education.
Anne's drawing master gave lessons on Saturday afternoons after the riding party enjoyed a picnic lunch. Mary improved her ability to draw botanicals. Lizzy and Kitty polished abilities which had become stagnant. Charlotte enjoyed the opportunity to receive lessons as she never had art instruction before. Mrs. Jenkinson embroidered while chaperoning the young women during their art lessons. Anne felt Mrs. Jenkinson spent more time listening to the conversation between the young ladies than she embroidered. She could sense Mrs. Jenkinson's consternation by the way her needle stabbed the fabric.
"I appreciate the art lessons," Mary told Anne. "I have not had time to practice my drawing and feel I've endangered my accomplishment. My drawing improves, thanks to your drawing master."
"Nonsense," Lizzy laughed. "You should see the wonderful herb book she drew for me. Mary drew a picture of each plant with its flower, seeds and seed pod. Her book includes a description of the herb's uses, planting, growing and harvesting, and receipts for using the herb. She is creating herb books for Kitty and Jane."
The ladies and Mr. Collins improved their archery during the Sunday garden parties. The ladies were encouraged to practice their art lessons until time for dinner. Anne banned gossip during Sunday dinner conversations, and limited Mr. Collins' praise of the table arrangements and food. He learned to discuss hunting, fishing and riding with the men after dinner. He only drank one small port, and refused the cigars offered by Darcy or Fitzwilliam. He learned to polish his dance steps with Mary's and Charlotte's help. Kitty and Charlotte helped polish Mr. Collins' card playing. Occasionally, Mr. Collins played chess against Darcy or Fitzwilliam.
~X~
Anne sensed something different in Richard this trip to Rosings. When he smiled, the heavens broke into sun rays, and the world became warmer and brighter. Anne watched the growing attraction between William and Elizabeth and hoped for the best for them. She only discussed William and Elizabeth in French with Richard when alone. Anne's footmen could not speak French, so their subterfuge remained undiscovered. Richard recommended Anne continue the invitations to the Collinses and their guests. Anne and Richard could observe how matters progressed between William and Elizabeth. Anne and Richard agreed, William did not need a large dowry when he wed. William needed someone who could tease his scowl into dimpled smiles. Elizabeth's wit and vivacity could help the naturally taciturn William along. William's interest in Elizabeth lifted the heaviness of Lady Catherine's expectations. Healthier than she had ever been, Anne wanted to start living her life. She never realized how much her dread of Mother's expectations affected her health. There was something in the air at Rosings Park – Anne felt healthier; Richard's injuries lessened; William's disposition improved.
~X~
Lizzy enjoyed her early morning walks. The small, well-maintained grove between Hunsford Parsonage and Rosings quickly became her favorite. She enjoyed the sunshine and natural beauty of her walks. When Darcy joined her for walks, they shared their observations and impressions of the gardens and grounds at Hunsford Parsonage and Rosings. Darcy told Lizzy about Pemberley's gardens, lake, and forests. Lizzy told Darcy about her favorite walks around Longbourn. Darcy described his gardens at the Darcy House in London. Lizzy described the gardens p Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner's home in London. They discussed the gardens of Hunsford Parsonage.
When they ran out of discussions of gardens and walks, they discussed libraries. Darcy declared the Bingley House and Netherfield Park libraries abysmal. He enjoyed the diverse assortment of books at Matlock House. He admitted Lady Catherine did not read to entertain herself. All the books at the de Bourgh House and Rosings Park were purchased by Sir Lewis and his ancestors. For Lady Catherine, the books were simply décor, for someone to admire…not to read or discuss. Books in the Rosings library were sorted according to size and color…not genre or author. When Anne and the men began using the library as a sitting room, they often spent time sorting books so Anne could eventually create a library catalog. Daily as Mrs. Jenkinson and the maids cleaned and inventoried rooms, more books were found and returned to the library.
Lizzy and Darcy discussed the Longbourn library. The diversity of books, the filled bookshelves, and the overwhelming care of the library impressed Darcy. Lizzy felt Papa hid there often. However, she appreciated selecting books to read without Papa cherishing them more than his daughters. Lizzy enjoyed finding horticulture, classic literature, poetry, and French novels in Mary's small private library in her sitting room at the Hunsford Parsonage. Lizzy opined Mr. Collins' bookroom lacked the depth and breadth of classic literature, history and sciences found at Longbourn. She found religious tomes and extracts dominated his library.
Darcy expressed his pleasure at Miss Kitty's daily walks with Anne and Fitzwilliam at Rosings before breakfast. They often commented on the newest blooms of the gardens, the appearances of butterflies, and the well-manicured lawns after their walks…but only in French. Their French master believed daily lessons improved their language skills. While Fitzwilliam could read and write French, his verb conjugations were dreadful. Kitty acquired her large French vocabulary from singing French ballads, but she could barely read and could not write French. Anne, the novice, committed to learning to speak, read and write French. The French tutor remarked she had a natural ear for the language. Mme. de la Couer recommended Anne learn Italian when she sought a new language to conquer. Mary and Elizabeth's Latin knowledge and Elizabeth's knowledge of Greek amazed Mme. de la Couer. She expanded their foundations in Latin, and tested Lizzy's comprehension of Greek by giving her passages to translate to English.
Darcy helped Elizabeth with her Latin and Greek, which sharpened his abilities. They discussed his education at Eton and Oxford. Lady Catherine dismissed Mary and her sisters' education as they had no governess or masters. Lizzy and Mary felt Miss Bingley's seminary education lacked depth and variety. Lizzy explained Mary bartered with their Aunt Phillips for art and French lessons for the Bennet girls. She bartered honey, ink and quills to Uncle Phillips for Latin lessons. Whatever the Bennet daughters wished to learn…a parent, aunt, uncle or a community member helped.
Lizzy expressed surprise at Mary's daily walk with Mr. Collins when they did not work in the gardens. Mary had not been a great walker at Longbourn, but she strolled around the parsonage and rectory with Mr. Collins. Lizzy felt fresh air and walks were beneficial to the couple. Mary encouraged Mr. Collins to accompany Anne with Darcy or Fitzwilliam to handle tenant issues. Mary claimed he needed practice calling on tenants when he wasn't calling on parishioners.
Darcy appreciated Mrs. Collins recommendation of daily walks to increase Anne's and Richard's stamina. Darcy explained Anne worked to improve Rosings. He enjoyed using the small breakfast room, devoid of excess furniture, and the open drapes where they could look out at the verdant garden. The room held a dozen comfortably, allowing space for the cousins, Mrs. Jenkinson, and the masters. Anne ate her meals with her cousins, not on trays in her room. Kitty never stayed for breakfast; she always returned to the parsonage in case Mary had lessons or tasks for her.
Darcy and Fitzwilliam professed great enjoyment of the Saturday horseback rides and picnics which Fitzwilliam organized for Rosings and Hunsford Parsonage. Anne gave Kitty and Mary ribbon lessons, where they learned to handle Anne's phaeton and ponies. Darcy or Fitzwilliam improved Lizzy, Charlotte and Kitty's abilities to handle a one-horse gig. Those not taking ribbon lessons, improved their riding skills. The music master provided music during the al fresco meal. He endeavored to teach classical operas, concertos and sonatas to the group. The art master gave the ladies art lessons after their meal.
Mary worked with Kitty, Lizzy and Charlotte to improve their pianoforte abilities. She shared scale sheets from Miss Anne's master. Charlotte taught Kitty to copy music sheets. Mary taught all the ladies gardening and stillroom lessons. Mary, Charlotte, and Kitty sewed for the benefice society or embroidered during calling hours. Lizzy read poetry and novels aloud if they had no callers. They gathered around the kitchen table. Charlotte helped Mrs. Manning teach Barlow and Rose simple embroidery stitches and improve their sewing on Wednesday afternoons. Wednesday afternoons Lowe joined the ladies to mend clothes for the parsonage, or sew items needed for the parsonage.
Mary taught gentleman lessons after dinner when Mr. Collins was not called away. Lizzy helped Barlow, Lowe and Rose with their primer lessons. Since Kitty attended French lessons before breakfast, she studied Papa's lessons after dinner. Charlotte practiced her pianoforte or her drawing.
Mary's ease at handling dinner guests amazed her sisters. Kitty opined Mary's ease at hostessing would shock Mama. March passed with weekly Wednesday dinner and cards at the parsonage, and the weekly riding and picnics on Saturday, with garden parties, dinners and dancing at Rosings Park on Sunday. The groups at the Hunsford Parsonage and at Rosings enjoyed each other's company. Such amiability irked Mrs. Jenkinson whose sensibilities about the preservation of rank were ignored by Anne.
Saturday, March 20
Richard joined Anne in her phaeton this morning when Kitty and the French master were indisposed. He felt delighted because Anne adeptly handled the ribbons for her ponies. "William took an early morning ride," Richard commented.
"I know," Anne replied. "William usually rides out in the direction of where Elizabeth walks. I do not call attention to it, because I do not want to brook interference from Mr. Collins or Mrs. Jenkinson. I trust both of them to not compromise one another. They need this time to become familiar and at ease with one another."
Richard knew Anne's calm demeanor hid a determined spirit, and a romantic nature. William seemed more open and friendly with Anne during this visit than he had ever been. However, Richard knew neither Anne nor William intended to marry each other. Anne declared if Mrs. Jenkinson attempted to force a compromise between Anne and William, at the order of Lady Catherine….she would be greatly disappointed.\
'Six months in Portugal gave me a greater appreciation for fine wines and pretty ladies. I do not wish to do battle with anyone…not even a battle of wits with William or Elizabeth.' Richard sighed. A man of charm, manners and conversation…he suddenly felt reticent about discussing the war. He brought home many men who were broken, scarred, and demoralized. Others were docile…too docile…too gentle…their minds lost by the horrors they saw or caused. "I believe my time on the continent became my Grand Tour. I saw Brussels, Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Lisbon and Athens. I have seen the Mediterranean Sea from a hilltop in Italy. I have viewed the Atlantic Ocean from a cliff in Spain. I have sailed the circumference of England, stopping in every port to collect soldiers. I toured many interesting British cities. I know the Peak District and the Lake District as well as I know Matlock Estate and Pemberley."
"Once the war is over, I would like to travel the continent," Anne admitted. "I heard London is best experienced in small increments. I worry when your mother suggests I have a Season…the lack of intelligent conversations…the emphasis on attending the best dinners, routs, card parties, and balls…being seen at theatre, concerts, exhibits, and presentation hours. I'm exhausted thinking of it. I know Georgiana feels the same. I might miss Rosings when I am required to be in London. I might miss my phaeton and ponies. I enjoy the view from my study and the library. I love Rosings in the spring since I have been healthy and able to walk the gardens and orchards. I love watching the verdant gardens of Rosings Manor."
~X~
Mary chuckled to herself after opening the mail. "Sarah sent a letter from Longbourn," she shared with Lizzy and Kitty. "She has new receipts from Mrs. Jones for soaps we can make after Lady Day…rosemary and mint, wild yarrow and wild rose, and calendula with chamomile. I made violet water from the wild violets I gathered. Lizzy, will you watch for patches of wild violets on your walks? I might like to make some wild violet soap."
Sunday, March 21
The de Bourgh box at the rectory hid the fidgets of Anne and her cousins. Fitzwilliam stretched his aching leg. Anne hid an everyday book and pencil in her reticule…making notes to herself. Darcy thrummed his fingers on thighs, waiting for Mr. Collins to end his long and tedious sermon regarding the importance of Lady Day. Darcy appreciated Aunt Catherine's absence during his impatient attendance at church. Aunt Catherine could not complain about Darcy's inattention as he observed a sedate Elizabeth sitting with Mrs. Collins and the other guests of Hunsford Parsonage.
Darcy felt Elizabeth's impatience for spring. She wore a white bonnet with light and dark primrose ribbon roses and spring green tying ribbons. Elizabeth looked like sunshine in a primrose striped gown with dark primrose spencer. He observed her petite hands, encased in primrose gloves. Darcy's mind filled with Elizabeth and her lavender scent. He dressed well this morning in his dark green topcoat with buff waistcoat and trousers. They would look well together when he offered to walk her to Rosings Park for the afternoon garden party.
The thought of enduring Mr. Collins overwhelmed Darcy's anticipation of this afternoon's garden party. The men would play horseshoes or fence while the ladies took drawing lessons. Archery and walks in the garden would provide space and distance from Mr. Collins' foolish nattering. After dinner, Darcy and Fitzwilliam would draw him into conversations regarding road improvements, along with upkeep, repair and expansion of farms. He needed to know such things for when the Collinses were the landowners at Longbourn.
Wednesday, March 24
The Earl of Matlock gladly attended the Grillons Club. Females and discussions of politics were barred by the club! He enjoyed eating dinner there, created by the well-trained Grillons' cook who planned and served excellent meals. Tonight, he anticipated dining with friends and adversaries from the House of Lords while avoiding Catherine. He intended to spend every Wednesday evening at his club or at Grillons. Catherine would have to make other plans. He and Constance developed this plan to give Anne a few months away from her overbearing mother. However, without Constance to commiserate with him, Reginald tired of Catherine's company. Robert and Augusta decamped to her parents, Lord and Lady Elburn, to avoid their Aunt Catherine. She didn't approve of Robert's handling business meetings with partners and investors while Reginald meet with the House of Lords. She didn't approve of Augusta's shopping and modiste appointments once the Season started. Reginald did not know how much longer he could bear Catherine's company. He left his house steward to settle wages with staff, and settle accounts with shopkeepers.
~X~
Lady Catherine arranged a late meeting with her solicitor. She had changes to make to her will. Most of her changes were straightforward. She had reports from Bow Street Runners…there were clauses in her new will which Lady Catherine deemed prudent. Her solicitor did as she asked, but he shook his head when she left. He was bound to not reveal her changes. At least he had time to pray before she signed and he had to submit her changes to the court.
~X~
"This is delicious," Mr. Collins complimented the food. He appreciated the roasted chicken on Wednesday evening. His days were been busy with parishioners, lessons, his rose garden, Rosings tenants and keeping Miss Anne and her cousins happy…while endeavoring to arrange the repair work for headstones in the cemetery.
"I received the vegetable ragout receipt from Colonel Fitzwilliam. The hot bread is called Virginia biscuits." Mary explained the vegetable ragout receipt used several kinds of garden stuff.
"I traded a bottle of French brandy for several receipts from a Virginia gentleman who visited the War Office. Ratafia cakes, strawberry fritters, apple fritters, several receipts made with cornmeal, and an interesting recipe called Ragout of Oysters." Fitzwilliam commented. "I traded the receipts to Mrs. Collins for receipts for her honey biscuits, Mustard Sherry Sauce, honey glaze and the cherry almond rout cakes. Writing my mother will be much easier this week."
"I think the Ragout of Oysters is like Potato Stew with diced oysters instead of bacon or ham bits. I cannot wait to try it. We're also testing four other old receipts which Mrs. Manning and I are reworking – Mitten of Mutton, potato and caramelized onion tart, Orange Cream Custard and Nuns Biscuits for dessert." Mary noted the satisfied looks on the men's faces at the two large serving dishes of creamed spring peas and new potatoes. Mary's dinner menus entertained the eye and palate for Rosings guests and Curate Stevenson.
Thursday, March 25
First quarter day of the year, all hands occupied the kitchens after midday meal. Mr. Knowles delivered three baskets of excess from Rosings tenant farmers to the parsonage. Mrs. Manning inventoried fresh spring garden stuff, eggs and milk, fish and meats. Additionally, there were fresh birds from the men's early morning shooting sport. Mary decided what could be used for the parsonage but assembled six baskets for Curate Stevenson, Sexton Tucker, and staff families. Since Mary had her chickens, she shared eggs from Rosings with Rose's family. Mr. Manning took Rose, Barlow and Lowe on quick trips to distribute baskets to their families, and to the other rectory staff.
Lizzy wasn't surprised to see how Mary kept just what the parsonage would use in the next few days and distributed the remainder. Mary kept precise records of the donations to the parsonage and the contents of the baskets she distributed. She and Mrs. Manning adjusted the menus for the parsonage to ensure the best use of the goods they received. Lizzy reviewed the donations ledger with Mary to learn how to manage donations from the tenant farms at Longbourn. Mary donated to parsonage staff first, rectory staff second, and any excessive extras to needy widows who helped with the benefice society. Lizzy delivered the baskets which Jane and Mrs. Hill prepared. She promised to be more active in Longbourn's charitable giving. Mary advised excess was always given to Vicar Nelson, the Phillips, and sometimes on quarter days to the Gardiners.
Anne and Fitzwilliam stopped for a few moments on their way to distribute baskets from the Rosings kitchens to widows. Mary gave her the distribution list of parsonage families and rectory staff baskets. Anne brought Mary a basket of fresh forced fruit from the Rosings orangery which included pears, grapes and strawberries. Mary would use the fruit for a cold collation at midday tomorrow. Fitzwilliam gave Mr. Collins his wages.
Staff renewed their agreement to work for the Collins, and wages were negotiated. Mr. Collins paid Curate Stevenson and Sexton Tucker, the Mannings, and Rose. Mary withdrew her quarterly pin money from the bank, and paid wages to Barlow, Lowe and Mrs. Tucker. She ensured she had five pounds in farthings and pence to tithe to the alms for Easter. Mary distributed brown and cream materials, buttons and threads for a set of new spring clothes for her staff. She updated the staff pages in her ledger.
Mr. Collins gave Mary the portion for the house. She noted the funds in the ledger, and paid any outstanding invoices at the shopkeepers. With Mrs. Manning's help, she created a list of dry goods, etc. to purchase for the next quarter. Soaps, candles and coal had to be purchased by Midsummer. The gardens, hens and Daisy helped Mary enlarge the living at the parsonage.
Mr. Knowles arranged Mary's purchases of poultry and bees. They would be delivered this weekend. Mr. Manning arranged for a delivery of feed for the animals with Mr. Knowles.
Mary reminded Barlow to collect the last of the ashes since they would not have fires except for the kitchen, unless the weather turned cold and inclement. She and Barlow made soaps in February in anticipation of her guests this spring. There would be time to finish making soaps after her guests left. She and Barlow would make candles after her guests departed. The soaps and candles could dry during the summer.
Quarter Day had been a busy for both the parsonage and Rosings Park. Mary urged Barlow and Lowe to attend the Spring Assembly since her guests would not attend. Kitty and Charlotte helped Barlow and Lowe dress, and helped with their hair. Mrs. Manning would help Mary and her female guests have an early evening. Tomorrow, Barlow and Lowe could tell Mary how many dances they danced, with whom, and all pleasantries of their evening.
Friday, March 26
A Rosings dairymaid visited the parsonage daily to milk Daisy at dawn and dusk. She brought a bucket of milk with her each day, and a pound of butter, a pound of cheese and a small bucket of cream every Friday. Mr. Manning moved the newly weaned piglets into their own stalls in the piggery, away from Lady Capulet. He suggested Mary might want to keep Beatrice and Emilia to replace Lady Capulet. The piggery would hold two piggy sows. He opined Ajax, Captain and Duke would be ready to butcher in November. He would barter with Mr. Knowles to use the smokehouses at Rosings. Fresh pork, which would not be salted or smoked, could feed the parsonage and staff for a few days.
Overnight a slow gentle rain soaked the grounds of Hunsford and Westerham. Kitty and Lizzy took the one horse gig to Rosings Park to protect their footwear and gown hems. Darcy and Elizabeth joined Anne, Kitty and Fitzwilliam along with Mme. de la Coeur in the formal, paved gardens at Rosings Park. Darcy slowed his regular stride, allowing his cousins and Miss Kitty to walk ahead and converse in French. "I regret leaving Netherfield without speaking to you. Do you forgive me?" Darcy asked Elizabeth.
"There is nothing to forgive. I cannot be angry with Bingley for his perceived abandonment of Jane. I regret he had to deal with Mr. Hurst's follies." Lizzy admitted. "Please allow me to thank you for telling Jane about Bingley's plan to return to Netherfield. My aunt speaks highly of you and your regard for his feelings."
Darcy smiled at Lizzy, surprising her with his deep dimples and dancing dark blue eyes. Darcy's dimples discomposed her thoughts. Lizzy sighed when they caught up with Kitty, Anne and Fitzwilliam, for she feared further conversation with Darcy. She didn't trust the strength of her voice. She concentrated on her French verb conjugations…feel, think, esteem. Darcy concentrated on his French verb conjugations…apologize, encourage, esteem.
~X~
Mary had not made baked pears in months. She resolved to teach her guests and staff how to make baked pears with honey-walnut glaze. Her sisters and Charlotte were used to working in the kitchen. Mary taught the ladies to make her best honey biscuits. Charlotte taught the ladies to make roses from fresh radishes and from fresh strawberries. Lizzy taught the ladies to make her best butter pound cake. Mrs. Havens taught the ladies to make her spiced nuts. Mrs. Sexton taught the parsonage staff and Mrs. Mary and her guests to create sweet breads for tea. She enjoyed Charlotte teaching them to make sweet sandwiches from leftover tea breads and fruit jams. Mrs. Manning taught the ladies to make spun sugar flowers and cake decorations. Kitty taught the ladies to make her best white wine punch. Anne gifted blank every day books to hold the newly learned receipts.
~X~
Richard and Anne sat in the library, facing the fireplace, with a small table between them. Anne ordered Mrs. Jenkinson to put away an excessive number of shawls, and ordered a fire laid and lit. "If pressed, I would say they have an agreeable marriage." Anne accepted the small glass of sherry Richard offered her. "She tries to correct his faults and encourage his best traits. She attempts to improve his conversation. I thought him very shabby at first, but Mary improves his person and his clothes."
"I still think Collins can be a silly buffoon," Richard yawned. "He's certainly not as genteel as your last vicar, who was a fine man, thoughtful, and moral."
"Well, I will not intrude as Mother does…but I encourage Mary to encourage him," Anne admitted. "I think it's a splendid undertaking."
"I think what is splendid is your continuing return to health," Richard enjoyed the warmth of the low fire on such a cool day. He reported Lady Catherine sent a letter to Mr. Knowles reminding him to order staff and tenants to cease having fires except in their kitchens and nurseries after Lady Day. She reminded him to remind staff to cease using candles. She ordered him to collect rents, negotiate farm leases, contract staff and laborers for another year, and pay Rosings Park staff. Richard reminded him to keep the firepits in the orchard at the ready to keep the trees from blight by the cool, unexpected air. Mr. Knowles reported he discussed the letter with Mr. Collins, who received the same directives. Miss Anne countermanded her mother's orders. She did not want people to fall ill if the weather turned. She also wanted the infirm to continue using candles on dark days. Mr. Knowles felt her ideas were worthy. Mr. Collins fretted.
"I enjoy the Bennet sisters and Miss Charlotte, however, I really enjoy Kitty's company," Anne sipped the excellent sherry which she purchased in Westerham. Richard accompanied her to the wine cellar with Gerard. Richard urged her to send the cases of mediocre wine to the de Bourgh House. However, Anne felt the Rosings or de Bourgh House staff would tell her mother. She intended to give away the wines with Easter baskets. After hearing Richard's recommendations, Anne gladly purchased several dozen crates of good wines, ports and sherry for Rosings Park.
"Mr. and Mrs. Bennet have not learned the art of war," Richard poked the fire and added another log. "You can't ignore your troops. You can't dismiss their presence or set them aside. I think Mrs. Bennet began neglecting her daughters when her youngest hoyden, Miss Lydia, was born. I believe Elizabeth reflects the best of her father – wit and vivacity with intelligence."
"Mary was ignored by her family, even more so than Kitty. Jane and Elizabeth had each other, and Kitty and Lydia had each other, but Mary had no one." Anne explained. "I believe being alone is the reason why we are particular friends."
"I think she will be excellent friends with Kitty and Elizabeth for the rest of their lives. This has been a good visit." Richard complimented Anne. "I shall be sorry to return to London the first weekend of May. Mary Collins healed me faster than the London doctor predicted. I will need to be examined by the doctors and receive approval to return to duty."
"You know, the other day, Kitty complained about her height. Lizzy told her not every man wants to marry a footman." Anne tried to change the subject of Richard and William leaving her. She wished they could stay until Mother returned in June.
"Told you – wit and vivacity. She will be good for William. I've seen how she makes him laugh and the ease of their conversations with one another." Richard agreed with Anne's assessment of William's budding relationship with Elizabeth.
"Mary practices economy and industry. She turned the Hunsford Parsonage around. And…if what you suspect is true…I hope she has a son to inherit Longbourn. I know she felt sad to leave her home. I hope she returns as its mistress…but not for at least fifty years." Anne tried to control her emotions. There was no reason to borrow trouble, but she did not believe Mother approved of Mary. Both Mary and Anne believed there would be a reckoning.
"The Bennets have no sons to inherit?" Richard asked with confusion.
"As I understand it…no Bennet son means the Longbourn estate with its holdings, funds, family furniture, family paintings, books, and an advowson are entailed away to the next male in the Bennet bloodline…which would be Mr. Collins." Anne did not reveal Mary's secret. The world did not need to know Mr. Bennet's first grandson, born before his death, inherited an entail-free Longbourn.
Saturday, March 27
Mary taught her sisters and parsonage staff to make casks of lavender, rose, and bay with rosemary water. They made plain, rose or lavender soaps and plain bay/rosemary soaps. Mary shared the receipt to make citrus soaps for sickrooms. Mary taught her sisters and staff to make tallow candles and beeswax candles for the parsonage. She put lavender and rose petals in some of the candles intended for guest rooms. She made cinnamon Yule candles. Shelves in the distillery held the soaps and candles to dry in open air. Charlotte sat with the ladies and ensured they copied the receipts for the waters, soaps and candles.
~X~
"Mr. Bingley, please allow me to be honest with you. As much as I have enjoyed your company, and as much as I esteem you…I have concerns. Your sisters and I do not get on. I know my family exhibits impropriety sometimes, but they are never cruel or demeaning to anyone whose station in life is lower than theirs. My family never exhibited disdain for your sisters…who demeaned my family at every opportunity." Jane shook her head at Bingley.
"Jane, I do not want to marry Miss Darcy or any one of the debutantes who my sisters desire for their portion or position. I think responsibilities for our siblings taught us the importance of family. Neither of us have been lonely because of our siblings; but neither of us have been happy without each other. I have forgiven Caroline and Louisa for attempting to separate us, but I haven't forgotten the pain they inflicted on me. I will never give you up." Bingley knelt on one knee. "You are more important to me than family or friends. My love…my angel…will you do me the greatest honor of my life and accept my offer for your hand?"
Jane took his beloved face in her hands. "Yes, Charles, yes. A thousand times yes."
~X~
Scarborough bored Caroline. She did not know how much longer she could endure a quiet life. Her aunt had a nurse, so Caroline was not needed in the sickroom at night. She read in the mornings to her aunt and quickly realized reading bored her. Not even the newest books of poetry or novels could hold her attention. She stitched between midday meal until after visitors left. She embroidered two new silk pillow covers for her aunt's drawing room. She appreciated Louisa's arrival to spend Easter with family in Scarborough. In Aunt Cordelia's presence, Caroline managed to not vent her ire at Charles for abandoning her to Scarborough.
Behind the closed doors of her suite, Louisa shared what news she knew of their brother, Mr. Darcy and mutual friends in London.
"Pray explain, Louisa," Caroline addressed her sister. "Mr. Darcy visits his cousin, Anne de Bourgh, at Rosings Park. Miss Bennet's sisters are at Hunsford Rectory visiting Mr. and Mrs. Collins?"
"Indeed, Caroline," Louisa continued to unpack her things. "I understand Mr. Collins' glebe abuts Rosings Park."
Caroline paled at the news. She would not let a provincial nobody or Darcy's sick cousin claim Pemberley, Darcy, his fortune or his status in society. Caroline had one goal since Charles introduced his particular friend, Darcy, to the Bingley family. She would be Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy. She believed she proved how excellent she would be as his hostess, his wife, and the mother of his children during their time at Netherfield Park. The incident with his footman at Netherfield Park was unfortunate, but she had not given up hope. She didn't want Eliza Bennet near Mr. Darcy…yet, she wanted Eliza Bennet's fine eyes to watch as Caroline walked down the aisle to wed Darcy. She vowed Eliza Bennet would need protection if she continued her pert ways and opinions with Darcy once he and Caroline were wed.
"I had the news in a letter from Charles. On Lady Day, he renewed the Netherfield lease for a year. He is working with the Netherfield steward to complete spring planting at the main farm. They will use the Norfolk system at the tenant farms which look to Netherfield. In his letter, Charles assured the family investments are stable. However, we are not invited to visit Netherfield or the Bingley House in London. Since he's cast us off, we haven't been invited to the Darcy House, let alone Pemberley." Louisa sighed. "Traveling to Scarborough, but not stopping at Pemberley, vexed me greatly."
Louisa further explained the steps Father Hurst took after the disastrous steam engine circus scheme Hurst considered. At Christmas, Father Hurst made Howard sign a rental contract for the Hurst House in London. The Hursts paid full rental price in addition to paying for the necessities of living – like coals, soaps, candles and food in addition to paying wages to servants. They were not allowed to release any of Father Hurst's servants. In addition, Father Hurst locked the wine cellar; forcing Hurst to buy his own libations. The number of invitations they normally received at this time of year dwindled since they were no longer in the company of Fitzwilliam Darcy. The ton was not cutting them, but the quantity and quality of invitations slowed from last season. Louisa appreciated the invitation to Aunt Cordelia's home. They planned to visit Aunt Cordelia as long as possible.
Caroline's plans plummeted. If Charles insisted on being a gentleman farmer, he had to choose a fashionable part of England. If the new property was close to Pemberley for neighborly visits, she heartily endorsed the plan. However, if he insisted on marrying Jane Bennet, and if he insisted on staying at Netherfield, she would demand Charles open Bingley House for her. She and Louisa had just redecorated it, and its prospect was many social steps above the Hurst House and Jane Bennet's family in Cheapside.
Sunday, March 28he
Darcy spent Saturday reviewing the ledgers and lease contracts with Anne and Fitzwilliam. They reviewed the staff contracts also. Darcy warned Anne she had as many servants at Rosings as he had at Pemberley…while Rosings had twenty less rooms. Additionally there were four and twenty staff at the de Bourgh House which should have been released when the house was closed at the end of Little Season. Darcy and Anne began lists of staff to release at Midsummer, Michaelmas and Christmas.
Anne took a cue from Mary. She ordered bolts of tightly woven, sturdy brown cotton for dresses and waistcoats, bolts of brown broadcloth for men's pants and coats, and bolts of sturdy cream cotton for aprons, mob caps and men's shirts. Anne discussed her needs with Mrs. Gardiner while she visited Hunsford Rectory. Mr. Gardiner was prepared for such a large order, with threads, buttons, and trim. Anne wanted her staff to have two new sets of clothes with shirts or aprons and mob caps. Many of her staff wore second-hand clothes from older siblings. Some wore the oddest shades of brown because clothes they owned were dyed brown so they could work at Rosings Park. Anne tasked Mrs. Havens to review everyone's clothing needs and to replace and repair according to need. She hired twelve widows to sew daily from eight to five through the month of April for meals and wages. The grey/silver livery would be replaced with brown and cream when possible. She intended to keep materials for work clothes and livery at hand for when she hired new staff.
Saturday's usual horseback ride and picnic were postponed to Sunday. When Mrs. Gardiner returned to London, Mary suggested she ride in the landau with Mrs. Jenkinson and the music and art master for the horseback ride and picnic. Anne recognized the sensibility of Mary's suggestion. Mrs. Jenkinson did not need to interrogate Anne's masters and report what she learned to Lady Catherine. With Mary in the carriage, Mrs. Jenkinson quietly listened to Mary discuss music and art with the masters. Both shared which exhibitions and musicales were the best London had to offer.
During the riding party, Darcy and Fitzwilliam wanted to show off the repair work done to tenant cottages, barns and bridges in March. They viewed beautiful vistas, and well planted and tended fields. Darcy was proud of the work at Rosings Park this year. So much had been ignored in the past few years. Mr. Knowles and Anne would not allow another year to pass without ensuring repair work had been completed. Mr. Knowles was pleased Darcy reviewed the farm leases before and after being signed. Tenants were better about signing their leases because repair work had been addressed. After the picnic, everyone returned home for a rest to be followed by dinner at eight at Rosings Park, to be followed by dancing practice until midnight.
~X~
"These are the steps to the Viennese Waltz. The dance is different from any you have ever learned because partners are required to be close to one another. I do not expect the Viennese Waltz will be accepted at Almack's for several Seasons. However, the dance will gain in popularity as the opening dance or the closing dance at private balls and assemblies. I've been requested to teach the steps since Little Season last year." Anne's dance instructor explained. "I cannot imagine the dance being called at a public ball, but musicians are learning the score. I imagine public assemblies and balls will still be danced in sets, with the Boulanger called as the last dance."
Richard tried not to think about touching Anne while they learned to dance the Viennese Waltz. He enjoyed the delicate floral smell of her hair. He enjoyed her porcelain complexion, the roses of her cheeks, the smoothness of her movements. Anne would never be a great beauty, but she was quite pretty with shining eyes and a smiling mouth. He was thankful she did not show a great deal of décolletage in her gowns.