Wretched Beginnings 1813

by Mother of Pearl Fetish

Continuation of Wretched Beginnings 1812. Prepare a tea tray…there's more to the journey. After Lady Catherine experiences a decline in health…there are changes for the de Bourgh, Fitzwilliam, Darcy, Bennet, Bingley and Collins families. Strong female characters. Jane Austen owns the P&P plots, characters, etc.

6. Chapter 6

Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 6

April 1, 1813

Anne's education master received an express from his family. He was needed at home because his father fell ill. He left her with a list of lessons and a list of books to procure. "Study the past – art, history, philosophy and literature as the basis for a complete education." Anne wrote him a character and insisted he take his full pay. He agreed to return when he could and resume his position. Fitzwilliam arranged one of the smallest de Bourgh carriages to transport Mr. Case to London. Anne provided funds for the coachman and groom for care for themselves and the horses. If Mrs. Jenkinson felt relieved to see the backside of one of Anne's masters, she celebrated too early. When she didn't supervise the maids, Mrs. Jenkinson called on tenants with Mr. Knowles and Mr. Collins. Fitzwilliam and Darcy educated Anne about the estate without interference from Mrs. Jenkinson or Mr. Collins.

~X~

"Do you know why I'm so reserved?" Darcy watched Elizabeth shake her head. "At Oxford I met many new friends and received invitations to important estates and homes in England. However, for every new friend, I met at least one sister, one young aunt, or one female cousin. Everyone of my acquaintance – my circle of friends, Oxford professors, the clergy and the ton – knew the perfect woman to be the new mistress of Pemberley. I learned to avoid situations, entanglements, and compromises. For years my valets slept in dressing rooms, or on settees in my guest room. I rarely danced, and never the first, supper or last dance set because I did not want women to envision their rise from acquaintance to friend to bride."

"I had just paid off one of Wickham's intrigues, providing her with a dowry, a husband and a situation as far away from Pemberley as possible. Then I met Bingley who made me laugh. Bingley spent his pocket money on adventures – concerts, theatre, operas, balloon ascensions, traveling, fishing, swimming, shooting, riding, boating, fencing, billiards, and watching horse races. Every hostess in London wanted amiable Bingley as a dinner guest or an extra man at a ball. I knew Bingley for several months before I met his sisters."

"Didn't have a warning, did you?" Lizzy mocked him with a shake of her head.

"You, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, are a breath of fresh air. The ladies of the ton, which Fitzwilliam and I know, are dull creatures. Their conversation is limited to weather, gowns, past events, future events, current gossip or fawning over me. I felt constantly praised for my lot in life! Gentlemen vie for my attention as well, in hopes of garnering my favor or approval, investment in their schemes, or marriage to their dull daughters. Believe me, your lively discourse and pert opinions give me a new perspective. I am anxious to converse if you take part in the discourse."

~X~

The pleasant days and sunshine affected not only Elizabeth's walks or Mary's gardening. Charlotte helped with the poultry and received garden lessons from Mary. Kitty drew, studied or walked with Anne while practicing her French. Sunshine improved all their attitudes.

Before breakfast, Darcy walked daily with Elizabeth. After walks and breakfast, there were meetings with Mr. Knowles, visiting problem areas of the estate, inspecting the land, and viewing the spring planting. When March passed with sunshine and dry lanes…Mr. Knowles explained the groundskeeper guided a team of four which pulled a log crosswise over the length of the lanes to even the ground. Mr. Knowles explained the groundskeeper performed the task several times in the spring and fall to provide for fast and efficient travel throughout Rosings Park.

Rosings Park was more than a classical country house set on sweeping parkland. Rosings Park received income from its establishing legacy, and rents from tenants on its farms. Shopkeepers at Hunsford appreciated Rosings Park when Sir Lewis lead the estate. His staff kept bridges intact, kept roads passable, and kept community buildings intact. He provided magistrate service and sound advice for occupants of Hunsford. Lady Catherine did none of these things.

After midday meal, Darcy and Fitzwilliam worked on the ledgers for the estate, for Anne could not understand the drop of revenues from when Sir Lewis ran the estate, to now when Lady Catherine exhibited iron-fisted control. Darcy and Fitzwilliam sought answers for Anne …and found more questionable situations and dealings than either could hide.

~X~

Lizzy slipped off to her favorite grove to read Jane's letter in quiet and solitude. Jane shared the good news. Mr. Bingley offered for her. Mr. Bennet gave them his blessing and approved the wedding ceremony for the thirtieth of June at St. Albans. A wedding breakfast would follow at Netherfield Park. Jane requested Lizzy, Kitty and Charlotte come home by the first of May. Mrs. Bennet wanted to go to London to purchase wedding clothes. Lizzy could not wait to read parts of the letter to her sisters and Charlotte.

"Cousin Elizabeth," Mr. Collins called to her as she walked back to the parsonage after reading Jane's letter.

Lizzy joined Mr. Collins in a stroll about the gardens. She noticed he didn't huff and puff when he walked. His clean hair appeared trimmed. He dressed in new gardening clothes but his attitude appeared subdued. "I feel pain relating this to you, but I know you will share my concerns with Cousin Kitty and Miss Charlotte. We have had an amusing few weeks with Miss Anne, Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, but none of you may set your cap for either of the cousins. Darcy is intended for Miss Anne. Lady Catherine announced the engagement to me within a week of my assuming the living at Hunsford Rectory. She did not want any of female parishioners or my five female cousins developing notions above their station. Colonel Fitzwilliam, as the second son of the Sixth Earl of Matlock, must marry an heiress with first set connections."

"We are all daughters of gentlemen. We would not embarrass you or Mary with improper actions." Lizzy attempted to reassure Mr. Collins. 'However, my thoughts and wishes are my own. Neither you or Lady Catherine will dictate what I think or feel. I believe both of you may be surprised to learn Mr. Darcy's thoughts, actions and wishes cannot be easily ordered about.'

Friday, April 2

Anne felt as vexed as a broody hen which had been pushed off its nest. She informed the rectory council and deacons board there would be no Easter open house at the Hunsford Parsonage. Her staff would prepare Rosings Park for an Easter open house from one to half past three for her tenants and staff. Alms baskets would be delivered on Maundy Thursday by Mr. Fitzwilliam and herself. Mr. Collins would announce the lack of an open house from the pulpit.

Anne wasn't prepared for the spate of arguments from the men. They were quite happy to continue Lady Catherine's directives from the last decade. Following Lady Catherine's edict kept them from angering the patroness of Hunsford Rectory, and kept them from excessive work or worry. Anne warned them…no other community in England inopportuned the vicar on Easter and Christmas with expectations of food, libations and entertainment. If any man from the rectory council or deacons board dissented with her, they could inform Lady Catherine who could be reached at Matlock House, Grosvenor Square, London.

Mr. Collins remained quiet while Miss Anne addressed the rectory council and the deacons board. He felt unsure how Lady Catherine would react about Miss Anne countermanding traditions which had been in effect for a decade. The uneasiness on the men's faces mirrored his own. He waited until the men departed before he counseled Miss Anne.

"Miss Anne…as the vicar of Hunsford Rectory, I urge you to reconsider the headstrong and determined attitudes you exhibit lately. My esteemed patroness, Lady Catherine…your mother…has led the Hunsford Rectory for a decade. A child should honor his or her parents. Your changes and interference leaves the rectory council and deacons board uneasy. None of them want to cause a breach between a parent and child."

"First of all, Mr. Collins, I am not a child. I am almost five and twenty, and past the age of maturity. Second, everything I have done or decided has been for the good or betterment of Rosings Park, Hunsford Rectory and the community." Anne refrained from stamping her foot like a girl of five and ten. For once in her life, she wished she were a man. 'Why is it so easy for MEN to achieve their goals?'

"Lady Catherine approved my Easter sermon. She made changes and suggestions before returning my sermon to me. Lady Catherine suggested a three-hour service Easter morning because we need time for the communion service."

"What topic did Mother choose?" Anne's suspicions grew.

"I am to urge everyone's dedication to their position and not covet a Season in London which is above their station. Lady Catherine suggested reminding the community of separation of rank, and give due to one's betters." Mr. Collins gulped.

Anne felt angry because Mother had no qualms about causing issues for Mary and the parsonage staff. A lengthened church service would take away time the parsonage staff needed if they fed and entertained the community. She was glad she ordered the Easter event to be hosted by Rosings Park. "The Good Friday service will be a lesson regarding the first Good Friday and preparing for Easter. Easter Sunday, you will preach on the resurrection of Jesus and the renewal of spring. Everyone knows their position due to the renewal of contracts and leases on Lady Day. Or they know their position from shopkeeper or invoice payments. You will limit your Easter sermon to allow time for communion services."

Mr. Collins attempted to argue for Lady Catherine's topic and the extended time.

"I will have Curate Stevenson conduct the Good Friday and Easter services. I will tell the community you feel indisposed. Ten percent of the Good Friday and Easter service tithes will be given to Curate Stevenson for his extra duties."

"I will...d…do as you ask," Mr. Collins stammered.

"Good. Let us adjourn then. I will accompany you to the parsonage for refreshments. I intend to stay until you write an appropriate Good Friday and Easter sermon. I can sew, you can write…mayhap there will be excellent honey biscuits with our tea" Anne would send an express to Uncle Reggie, warning about the changes she made to the Good Friday and Easter church services, and the Easter community gathering.

Saturday, April 3

Thrilled, Anne caught the exact color of the water today… aqua in the sun, sapphire in the shade, and a rich blue for the rest of the pond. While Anne appreciated lessons from her masters, Darcy and Fitzwilliam taught her about Rosings Park. Before Mother returned to Rosings, Anne planned to apply to Uncle Reginald to support her plans for Rosings Park. She had no intention of becoming a captive of Rosings and under Mother's iron-fisted rule again.

~X~

Mary and Barlow filled ink bottles, specially acquired from London with stoppers and sealing wax. The dark ink had the correct consistency, which made Barlow proud of her ink lessons. They put a bottle of the fresh ink in Mary's sitting room, Mr. Collins' bookroom, and in the escritoire in the staff common room. Mary proudly displayed their efforts on a shelf in her stillroom. Mary ensured her sisters, Charlotte, Barlow, Lowe and Rose wrote the receipt for making ink.

Mary and her staff sewed alms bags and food bags for the alms baskets. Barlow and Rose perfected their ability to sew a straight seam. Mrs. Manning opined the girls would be able to sew and stuff the sachets Mary wanted for the baskets. She gladly gave the task to Barlow and Rose, encouraging them to create an additional dozen sachets which they could share with their mothers and sisters. Lowe worked with them to create the straight seam bags.

~X~

Kitty's letter to Lydia overflowed with descriptions of daily occurrences…which Lydia did not care to hear. She did not care about Colonel Fitzwilliam's favorite hunting dog and her new litter of nine pups. She did not care about Kitty's horseback riding lessons, or her ribbon lessons with Miss Anne's phaeton and ponies or with a one-horse gig. Lydia wished Kitty had drawn sketches of the riding habits, instead of describing ribbon changes to everyone's riding hat! Practicing dance steps did not interest as much as a private ball! How often did Kitty dance with Colonel Fitzwilliam in his regimentals? Sewing for the benefice society paled compared to sewing new silk evening gowns! Who wanted to know Kitty's French improved…she should describe Miss Anne's new wardrobe for garden parties and dinners at Rosings Park! Garden parties at Rosings Park instead of London! Who wanted to know how fine the Rosings Park gardens were when Kitty should have drawn the three magnificent chimney pieces which Mr. Collins referenced? Knowing her sisters were having such a good time, while she was denied amusements until their return made Lydia furious! Even Mama disliked Kitty's description of the wrong things!

~X~

"This is the menu for Wednesday's benefice society meeting," Anne handed a written slate to Mrs. Havens. "Asparagus and ham tarts, cucumber and mint butter sandwiches, cheese and herb scones, Mrs. Collins' honey biscuits, Hot Cross Buns, Simnel Cake, your spiced nuts, lemonade and tea for five dozen please."

"We have six dozen baskets to prepare for widows and the needy. The benefice society, Mrs. Collins and her guests will help me with preparations. We will assemble the baskets in the ballroom on Wednesday before Easter. Please have Mr. Knowles and his men set tables to hold contents for baskets, for filling baskets and for holding completed baskets. We'll need tables for food and seating during the tea. We will fill the baskets first, followed by tea, followed by a hasty exodus of the ladies, if possible. We'll remind the ladies to attend the special Good Friday and Easter services at the rectory. We will remind the ladies the parsonage is not hosting an open house this year."

"Everything has been shipped from Gardiner's Emporium in London. We have enough muslin bags for the dried goods." Mrs. Havens announced. "Starting this afternoon, the staff and I will begin assembling the bags of dried goods. I thought one table to hold each prepared item, lined up alphabetically – beans, coffee, dried fruit, and nuts."

"After we assemble the alms baskets, we need to assemble baskets for the tenants. Rosings Park is giving one ham and two bottles of wine to each tenant. Mr. Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy will help me prepare the tenant list from the signed leases from Lady Day." Anne glanced over her list. "Ensure the footmen bring the crates of wine marked by Colonel Fitzwilliam to the ballroom."

"You have the menu for Easter open house and for Easter dinner?" Mrs. Havens inquired.

Anne handed her a written list. "This is the buffet for the Easter open house for my tenants, farm workers and staff. Mr. Knowles arranged to roast two pigs and a lamb. The gardeners are bringing up fresh mint for making mint jelly for the lamb. We will serve cheeses, pickles, breads, boiled eggs, and garden stuff salads. Hot Cross Buns, Simnel Cakes and Nuns Biscuits for the sweets. We are serving barrels of apple cider – no beer, wine, wine punch, etc. Please arrange for the household staff to take their leisure also. Half of them will have from one to two off. The other half will have from two to three off. They are welcome to eat and drink and socialize in the ballroom. Their families are welcome to come forward to celebrate with them.

"I planned a special Easter dinner menu in honor of my cousins and my friends. Curate Stevenson is invited, along with my masters. First course is spring herb and brown broth soup, served with hot rolls and butter. Fish dishes included roasted salmon stuffed with prawns and lemon slices, and baked turbot stuffed with French herbs. Meat dishes included leg of lamb with mint jelly, roast goose with sage and onion stuffing, and beef steaks with mushrooms and onions. Sides include mashed potatoes and brown gravy, rosemary roasted small red potatoes, and Mrs. Collins' creamed spring peas and new potatoes. Garden stuff includes asparagus, whole green beans with bacon and scallion bits, broccoli spears, and fresh garden greens salad with cucumber and herb vinaigrette. Sweet course will be apricot and peach custard pie, Simnel Cake, and spring cherry tarts. We will use the formal dining room." Anne answered every possible question from her housekeeper.

~X~

"I approve of the changes in Anne," Fitzwilliam confided in Darcy. "She converses instead of cowering. She expresses her wishes and opinions instead of blindly following Lady Catherine's directives. I believe she is stronger physically and emotionally. I enjoy walking in the gardens with her French master." Fitzwilliam enjoyed Anne's healthy attitude this year. He believed Mary Collins, along with sunshine and fresh air, improved Anne's health.

"A certain situation provided the confidence Anne needs," Darcy retrieved Sir Lewis' Bible with a copy of his last will and testament.

Fitzwilliam read the will. He read the will again. He accepted the glass of brandy which Darcy handed him. "Shocking…surprising…"

"I was rendered speechless for an hour after reading it." Darcy locked the Bible and a copy of Sir Lewis' last will and testament away in the safe. "You're the military man…give us a plan of action."

April 9

"What do you have there?" Fitzwilliam asked Anne. During their morning walk with her French master, they conjugated the verbs for walk, stroll, see, view, smell and feel. Fitzwilliam would not admit the facts, but some of his French education had been obtained in comfortable, welcoming bordellos with mesdames du soir. Now, after breakfast, they were in Anne's private study.

"Mary planned a special dinner to celebrate Kitty's birthday tomorrow evening. Mrs. Havens and I started sorting attic crates and trunks when the weather does not allow for walks. This week we found a crate of school books, slates, maps, and a telescoping easel. My art master, Mrs. Radley, is cleaning the easel for my use on picnics and outings. Anyhow, there were two art boxes in the trunk. Mrs. Radley shopped for new pencils, paints, chalks and brushes, and paper. I thought I would give Kitty this barely used, and quite handsome art box for her birthday. The one she has is very battered. The rest of the items went to the schoolroom."

"Very nice," Fitzwilliam approved.

"Speaking of labors," Anne sighed. "I must make amends to the maids. In addition to their regular duties, they are cleaning and inventorying a few rooms a day. I learned half my staff can write their names, and less than half of those can read or calculate sums."

"You want all of them to be educated? I know many of Father and Mother's friends and acquaintances do not want educated lower servants. Educated butlers, housekeepers, cooks, valets, lady's maids, and companions are perfectly acceptable. Kitchen and scullery maids? Hall boys and grooms?" Fitzwilliam shook his head.

"Let's consider the staff another day. Only three of the maids and one of the footmen are educated beyond primer level. Mrs. Jenkinson calls on tenants on Tuesday and Thursday. Monday, Wednesday and Friday she supervises the maids while they inventory rooms. Today they are scrubbing down and polishing up before the Easter open house. I want a spotless ballroom prepared to serve about 300 people over three hours. The park and flower gardens need a good cleaning before Easter. They need to be busy most of the day, so I can study Rosings' ledgers without interference."

April 10

Mr. Collins offered a special prayer for Kitty's birthday picnic. He asked God to bless Kitty as she celebrated another year of God's bounty and beneficence. The rest of the group hid their surprise at the brevity of his prayer.

"Happy birthday, dearest Kitty, happy eight and ten." Everyone joined the applause.

"We know Mary planned a birthday dinner for you tonight, but I enjoyed planning a birthday surprise during our picnic." Anne hugged her new friend. Mrs. Gibbons planned the cold provisions for Kitty's birthday picnic: lobster mayonnaise, cold roasted chicken, small baguettes, chilled asparagus, cucumber slices on watercress with white wine vinaigrette, savory cheese and pear pie, butter shortbread, fresh grapes and strawberries, and cold Madeira.

"Thank you everyone," Kitty addressed the group. "This is a wonderful birthday celebration! I feel quite spoiled."

~X~

After dinner, the men adjourned to Mr. Collins' bookroom. Darcy and Fitzwilliam promised to keep him busy playing chess so the ladies could congregate in Mary's sitting room. Mary set a pink beribboned market basket on the table for Kitty. "Every lady needs a market basket to carry those small packages which she purchases – lace, ribbons, hair pins, soaps, buttons, etc." Rose and Barlow sewed cloth bags of various sizes made from scraps of pink material with lengths of pink ribbon to tie them closed.

"It's so pretty!" Kitty exclaimed. "I love the pink ribbons and ribbon roses decorations."

Lizzy and Charlotte gave Kitty fine lawn handkerchiefs for her birthday with embroidered roses and her initials, CB, to identify them. Anne gave Kitty the art box which had been refurbished with supplies. Kitty hugged her friend and exclaimed over the gift.

"Papa sent this for your birthday," Mary handed Kitty a wrapped package which contained a French primer to help Kitty with her lessons.

"I must write him directly, and thank him," Kitty beamed. "Perhaps Mme. de la Coeur can help me pen my letter in French. Papa will be quite surprised!"

Aunt Gardiner left a package for Kitty's birthday. The Gardiners gifted a dress length of fine blush pink linen, with thin rose pink stripes. The package held a wrap length of fine rose pink linen, four rose pink buttons, and a length of rose pink lace to decorate the bodice and sleeves of the dress. Wide, medium and thin rose pink ribbons were included. A plain blush pink reticule and a pair of short, blush pink cotton gloves were included. "I must visit your modiste before I return to Longbourn." Kitty thanked everyone for the best wishes and presents.

"I have a surprise for all of you," Mary gave each lady one of her coin rolls. "They are a new product, only sold at Gardiner's Emporium in London." She demonstrated how to fill the coin pockets, roll the strip of pockets and tie the roll with a ribbon to put into a reticule. Mary explained the coin roll kept the coins from jingling and did not reveal how much money they carried with them. She explained how to attach a button on a petticoat to hold the roll under one's gown while traveling to avoid highway men robbing them.

"I think Darcy and Fitzwilliam would like these also, especially Fitzwilliam when he returns to the continent. They can feed the roll down a coat sleeve." Anne exclaimed. She would show the coin roll to Darcy and Fitzwilliam and explain about Gardiner's Emporium. Anne planned to visit Gardiner's Emporium when she traveled to London. She wanted four and twenty for family and staff.

Charlotte wanted two, one for her mother and one for Maria. She hoped they would remain overnight in London on their return to Meryton. She anticipated shopping at Gardiner's Emporium.

Kitty wanted two, for Lydia and Jane's birthdays, but Mary had those set aside to give to Lizzy when they returned to Longbourn. "I would appreciate every female, who enters Gardiner's Emporium, purchasing one," Mary swore them to secrecy, and showed them the original she made. She explained how Mr. Gardiner acquired the patent, a manufacturer and customers for the coin roll. They were partners in business together. Mary explained the need for secrecy…since Mr. Collins might not approve of his wife engaging in trade with her uncle.

"You are so smart!" Lizzy and the ladies discussed Mary's abilities to put twice the amount of plants into one area than anyone else.

Mary explained about companion gardening. She knew her rosemary grew best when planted near broccoli. She knew her basil grew best if planted near potatoes or cabbage. She also explained the Virginia colonel, with the interesting receipts, gave Colonel Fitzwilliam directions for Three Sisters gardens. Mary explained about planting corn, beans and squash together. "Indian tribes have used Three Sisters gardens in the Americas. I'm setting aside a section of the garden to try Three Sisters next year. Most gardeners would appreciate growing three crops in one space."

The ladies enjoyed the green tea, with orange zest shortbread, a lemon sponge cake with orange marmalade and sweet whipped cream, and sweet lemon ices which Mrs. Manning created for after dinner treats for the ladies. She took lemon tarts and lemon shortbread to the men.

Monday before Easter

Claiming indisposition, Caroline spent the afternoon moping in her room. She was still banished to Scarborough. She had yet to receive an invitation from Charles to return to the Bingley House. She felt despondent over missing Easter in London and the opening of the Season. Not even Louisa's company mollified her. Caroline hoped Louisa would take her back to London when she and Mr. Hurst returned after Easter. However, Mr. Hurst felt disinclined to support himself at the Hurst House in London. Caroline knew he would be an indolent sloth at Aunt Cordelia's home for the entire summer if allowed. Soon Scarborough would be overwhelmed with third and fourth circle families visiting the seaside.

Caroline had no opportunity to display her hostess skills because Aunt Cordelia had an established routine for visitors. Caroline wearied of Hot Cross Buns and Simnel Cakes for tea with visitors. Aunt Stafford did not approve of people taking meals on trays in their room. Despite Caroline's requests for green tea, or more fashionable meal times, the staff continued to conduct their tasks as they had done for years. Aunt Cordelia didn't care for green tea, and served coffee for breakfast. She insisted meals be served at nine, midday and seven.

Wednesday

Fitzwilliam and Darcy appreciated Anne's kitchen staff, especially this morning. Mr. Knowles arranged for Fitzwilliam and Darcy to join the Knowles men for shooting sports. They planned to use the birds to help fill the charity baskets. This morning the nine men returned to a hot breakfast of eggs, ham and pork chops, hot roasted potatoes, fresh baked brioche and hot rolls, excellent jams and marmalades, apple pie and plum cake with hot coffee. Everyone met in the formal dining room where the nine men, the masters, Mrs. Jenkinson and Anne had plenty of space.

Anne begged Darcy and Fitzwilliam to take Mr. Collins for an afternoon of riding and fishing. but he refused. He wanted to practice his Good Friday and Easter sermon one more time. Darcy and Fitzwilliam acquired a picnic lunch from the kitchens and disappeared on horseback to stay away from all the women who plotted to introduce daughters to Miss Anne's handsome cousins while filling charity baskets.

Anne refused to let the benefice society know who received baskets. She listed the contents for the family baskets on one slate and the contents for the widow baskets on another slate. She intended to fill the baskets for the sixteen-person Bensinger family, and the basket for the parsonage with Richard's help. No one needed to know she donated two large baskets of food to the Bensingers, nor the stuffed basket for the parsonage. Her staff filled the bags of dried goods days ago. They butchered poultry and rabbits for the baskets, in addition to the birds shot this morning. Gerard and several footmen brought cases of libations from the cellar to the ballroom. Anne's kitchen staff baked a loaf of bread for every basket. Garden stuff and fresh eggs completed the baskets.

Mary excelled with the benefice society, keeping them busy and keeping gossip to a minimum. Kitty explained how Mary taught them to forage for cone mushrooms and spring ramps. She told the ladies how Mary taught her sisters to search for bergamot leaves and how to dry them to use for tea. Mary's lessons helped her find a laurel bay bush in the woods near their home. She teased Mary about the first time their Papa took them on a picnic while he fished. Mary gathered wild spinach from the river banks and fell in the water, scaring the fish away. Kitty told them about foraging for oak tree galls to make ink.

Lizzy told everyone about the wonderful autumn crocuses she found and harvested before Mary married Mr. Collins and moved to Hunsford. She revealed how Mary found wild grape vines which she harvested and then replanted. She explained about finding and relocating elderberry and red currant bushes. She claimed Mary made the best elderflower wine, cakes and biscuits. Lizzy laughingly told the ladies about finding wild garlic leaves and wild sorrel. Mary taught her sisters to dry those leaves for hearty vegetable soups in winter.

Mary explained how she found a wild asparagus bed this spring. She harvested wild asparagus and marked the bed to replant in the fall. She told the ladies about a wild plum tree she found with seedlings. Mr. Knowles and some men planted seedings in the orchards at Rosings Park and Hunsford Parsonage. He thought the seedlings would not produce for four years. However, they knew where to find the original tree to gather plums.

Once the baskets were filled, the ladies toured the gardens. The French doors from the music room were open so everyone could hear Anne's music master play the pianoforte. Mr. Knowles, in his Sunday best, conducted tours of the Rosings flower gardens and the formal garden with fountain. The ladies returned to the ballroom to drink tea and take refreshments before Anne's staff ordered carriages brought around.

Anne strolled the gardens with Mary, who wore her new sage green striped dress. Barlow arranged Mary's hair in a classic Greek style with a trio of sage green ribbons decorating it. Mary looked better today than she had looked all week. Anne mentioned this to Lizzy and Kitty and they agreed. Perhaps the pleasant spring weather caused better spirits for everyone. Mary spent her mornings, before breakfast, in the gardens at the parsonage. The gardens were producing, and new spring herbs were popping up. Anne felt Mary should have this afternoon for a rest. Knowing Mary, a rest meant putting her feet up while she sewed.

Good Friday, April 16, 1813

Richard enjoyed accompanying Anne yesterday, delivering Maundy Thursday baskets to widows and the needy of Hunsford Rectory. The alms box was opened and split among the needy families, with help from Mary with smaller coin and alms bags. Lady Catherine preferred the public spectacle of people gathering baskets from the rectory. Anne preferred delivering the baskets, and inquiring about other needs. Richard enjoyed how tenants and the community appreciated Anne and the help. He enjoyed meeting her tenants and neighbors.

Anne told him about the St. Thomas Tea for widows at the parsonage. From the sounds of it, Anne saved Mary Collins from humiliation served by Lady Catherine. When they visited the Bensinger poultry farm, Anne purchased extra eggs which they gathered during the week. She thanked them for selling extra poults to Mrs. Collins. She already had a peep of chickens, she purchased a gaggle of geese, a gobble of turkeys and a raft of ducks to enlarge her poultry flock. Fitzwilliam contained his silent laughter at the descriptions of poultry.

Richard never accompanied Lady Catherine on a mercy mission. He knew Lady Catherine belonged to all the charitable groups which claimed Mother as a patron, but charitable acts at Rosings were questionable. Lady Catherine did not act kind or charitable toward Mrs. Collins on Twelfth Night. He was especially appalled to hear the Collinses hosted the community on Christmas Day providing most of the food and drink for the event. The Easter and Christmas events should be coordinated by and held at Rosings Park. Anne planned to end the decade-long practice.

They attended the Good Friday service. Fitzwilliam observed Anne's honey gold hair shining in the sun as they walked to the rectory. He saw little curls dance against her neck in the refreshing breeze. 'What would those curls feel like, wound around his finger? Is her hair silky if entwined in his hands?' His cousin Anne had become so very dear to him. She may not be a classic beauty like Georgiana, or exceptionally beautiful like Jane Bennet, but Anne was handsome like Elizabeth Bennet. Her slender and delicate frame, no longer fragile and ill, housed an indomitable spirit. Her stature reminded him of his Aunt Anne. 'Do her daily walks build up her stamina? Will she be able to withstand the rigors of a marriage bed and childbirth? Do I have the right to anticipate such delights?'

Fitzwilliam knew if he looked at her eyes, they would be sapphire like a cool spring dawn sky. A man could lose his mind, his heart, his soul by gazing too long into those eyes.

Making Anne laugh and converse freely with them had been the aim of Darcy and Fitzwilliam during this stay at Rosings. In her light blue day dress, Anne displayed serenity never evident on their previous visits to Rosings. She did not resemble Lady Catherine, a wealthy and privileged lady who desired the preservation of rank. Fitzwilliam considered offering for Anne, but the offer would be contingent on Lady Catherine moving to London, and only visiting Rosings from Midsummer to Michaelmas. No one wanted to stay in London in the summer.

Richard expressed surprise at the brevity of Vicar Collins' sermon. Vicar Collins offered up a prayer for a successful Parliament session which would begin on Monday after Easter. Anne and her cousins returned to Rosings Park for a dinner of vegetable ragout, good cheeses, hot bread and fresh fruits. Half her staff had today off, and the other half would have tomorrow off. All hands would be present for the Easter celebration at Rosings.

Easter, 1813

Richard Anthony Fitzwilliam, second son of the Earl and Countess of Matlock, awoke after a particularly vivid dream. In the dream, he asked Anne to marry him and bear an heir. He had danced with many beautiful but dowerless young women and many rich but plain Janes at Almack's. However, Fitzwilliam would not be easily swayed or captured. None of the previous debutantes vied for his attention since he had titled parents but no future title for himself. Exposure to Lady Catherine's obsession with wealth and position guaranteed Anne didn't care for the ton any more than he did. Unless Anne wanted love and marriage with him, he would take a post at the War Office in London until he was sent to the continent.

Lady Catherine attempted to force Anne into a loveless marriage with Darcy so she could continue to rule Rosings. Fitzwilliam would support Darcy and Anne's refusal to wed, while he kept the worst fortune hunters away from Anne. Aunt Catherine was easily swayed by handsome men with their insincere compliments – as evidenced by Anne's claim Lady Catherine paid for Wickham's militia commission. Fitzwilliam disliked the games the ton played with people's lives.

Darcy and Fitzwilliam were surprised at Vicar Collins' short and inspirational sermon. They didn't know Anne counselled him. Mrs. Collins and the choir provided a lovely range of music during the communion. Anne opened Rosings Park to her tenants, workers and staff. Mrs. Collins' guests conducted garden tours. Mr. Knowles directed carriages and wagons. Gerard answered the door. Mrs. Havens ensured the Rosings Manor was scrubbed up and polished down. Mrs. Gibbons and the kitchen staff prepared food and kept the sideboards in the ballroom filled. Anne's music master performed.

Fitzwilliam mentioned Mary looked a little tired, which concerned Anne. Kitty explained Mary had no time to rest after church services. Fitzwilliam suggested she sit in the ballroom and speak with tenants about their gardening concerns. Anne ensured Mrs. Havens kept Mary in fresh tea trays while she greeted tenants and staff. After the tenants departed, and staff returned to their quarters, Fitzwilliam and Anne insisted Mary rest before dinner. Mary claimed her early hours in the garden fatigued her, but Fitzwilliam had his doubts. For the first time Anne could remember, someone used the chaise in the ladies withdrawing room at Rosings Park.

Monday after Easter

April 13

Matlock Residence

20 Laura Place, Bath

Dearest Cousin Anne,

I write this as I congratulate myself on having escaped morning calls today. Aunt Constance feels indisposed, so we could postpone calls. I believe there were too many ill people at the Pump Room on Saturday, which affected her.

Aunt Constance is ever so kind, and we are great companions to one another. Once she started feeling better after we arrived in Bath, Aunt Constance sent her cards around to those who left cards at our residence in Laura Place. I despair at the piles of cards upon the foyer table which means we must repay calls.

Aunt Constance explained first set cards must be acknowledged with a morning call. She is acquainted with almost all of the first set callers. She does not esteem some of them very highly and is pleased when a chance encounter with them at the Pump Room means she is not required to return their call. She gratefully accepts invitations from ladies she knows when planning a call on ladies she does not know. She explained second set cards. We make no calls on the second set. Aunt Constance gathers their cards and hosts a tea once a month for them.

Aunt Constance arranged menus to provide tea and refreshments for callers. We make calls Monday and Friday. We receive callers on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We host teas on Wednesday. We walk the Pump Room on Saturdays to meet acquaintances and discuss entertainments. Aunt Constance assures me morning calls are never shorter than fifteen minutes and never longer than thirty minutes. We can make four sets of calls in one day if we stay thirty minutes at each call. This practice Season before a 'real' Season is wearing. My head spins with the increase of our diary. I feel exhausted some days. Morning calls, tea parties, card parties, and dancing parties with a sprinkling of opera and theatre evenings.

We are rarely invited to dinner parties. Aunt says one always knows the menu and who will attend when there are dinner parties in Bath. She has never been to a dinner party where she did not know everyone present. We attended one original dinner party in Bath! Lady de Jefferies served an excellent lobster, crab and prawn bisque instead of white soup. I enjoyed the bisque very much. Dessert was a well-appointed epergne of grapes, small nectarines and tiny apricots served with various cheeses, small savory biscuits and a sweet dessert wine. Aunt Constance says both the bisque and the cheese and fruit are French affectations. I am not sure she approved.

Aunt Constance will host a dinner party before we leave Bath to repay dinner engagements. Aunt Constance wants to host a dinner party as original as Lady de Jeffries dinner party and is seeking new receipts to prepare for our dinner party. I would appreciate some of the receipts which Mrs. Collins introduced to you. I would like the honey brandy herbed glaze for poultry. William and Richard have highly praised it.

William writes me of the lively garden parties at Rosings. He tells me of the topics and conversations. He tells me the Bennet ladies and Mrs. Collins play the pianoforte very well. He relates you engaged a music master to teach you the pianoforte and an art master to teach drawing. I so wish Aunt Constance would do so for me. The only master I have is the dancing master who I share with five other young ladies. I cannot bear it, Anne. I do not come out until next Season and by then the female relatives of every single man in England will have the particulars of my connections and my dowry.

I would gladly attend one of your dinner parties, garden parties or riding parties! Does William laugh and talk a great deal at your dinner parties? Or is he shy and reserved?

We play "I am not" quite often. Aunt Constance suggested characters from Shakespeare's plays for January. (Did you take poison? I am not Romeo.) I selected Greek and Roman gods for February. (Do you use a bow and arrow? I am not Athena or Diana.) March centered on books and authors. (Did you write the Iliad? I am not Homer.) April is the kings and queens of England. (Did you conquer Mercia? I am not Egbert of Wessex.) Although the game sounds dreadfully dull…Aunt Constance employs this game after we entertain callers who can speak of nothing but connections, entertainments, fashions or travel. She claims this game keeps our minds from ennui.

I find myself barely tolerating some of the insipid conversations. Sometimes I feel all we discuss is pretty dresses, fashionable ribbons, and newest trends in bonnets. No one attends the theatre to be entertained…most of the callers cannot describe the plot of what they see…but they can describe every gown worn by other attendees! I truly feel like a porcelain in the drawing room some days.

Alas, there is my time in Bath. Days spent in meaningless conversations during morning calls. A large circle of acquaintances, but no real friends or confidantes. Amusements which are not amusing, but we must dress and make an appearance. Propriety enforced, censure and gossip avoided, and delight at entertaining myself with the pianoforte, painting and books delayed. I'm seriously considering twirling my parasol at the next garden party. Aunt and I would be cut, and I would have an afternoon to breathe.

Please write soonest,

Love,

Your cousin Georgiana

~X~

"Are you feeling well?" Mrs. Manning inquired. "Barlow is concerned you are having a lie in."

"Lizzy, Charlotte and Kitty are visiting Rosings for a French lesson while walking the gardens with Miss Anne. Please have Barlow wake me at half past nine, with hot water." Mary snuggled into her pillow. "I think the pheasant Miss Anne served for dinner has gone over. I feel absolutely green."

"You are green if you believe it was the pheasant." Mrs. Manning gave Mary a cool cloth to wipe her face. "How many of your courses have you missed?"

"Two.."

"Did you hope they were late because you've been so busy?"

"Mayhap…"

"I made egg custards for breakfast with honey and cinnamon. There is hot chocolate this morning with leftover Hot Cross Buns. Mr. Collins asked to not be disturbed. He is recopying his Good Friday and Easter sermons for his portfolio. He will outline sermons for the next few weeks. He plans to concentrate on the growth of the church, and the spring season for planting and growing. Mr. Manning will take a breakfast tray to his bookroom. Midday will be a cold collation – ham, cheese, boiled eggs, green garden stuff and herbed inn bread. Dinner will be lamb stew with spring carrots, peas and potatoes, with hot rolls. Spring cherry cake and custard tarts for sweets. Did you drink your green tea with ginger this morning? Do you need more ginger biscuits?"

"Yes, with another pot of green tea and ginger. Until I feel the quickening, I have nothing to reveal. After breakfast, I will send you and Mr. Manning to Westerham. You know what supplies we need after cooking and baking last week. Bring me the invoices for my ledgers. If we receive baskets from Rosings with pheasant, fish or venison, will you donate them immediately to Curate Stevenson and Sexton Tucker?" Mary's face flushed green momentarily. "I cannot abide them right now."

"The girls are too young to understand you may be enceinte. I'm sure Mr. Collins does not suspect anything. I will keep your secret until you feel it is time to announce your increase."

"I heard I should not announce my suspicions until I feel the quickening," Mary sighed. 'Hot baths…snort…William and my long pauses between marital duties didn't protect me…part of me wants a son for Longbourn…part of me does not want to be enceinte. Wives and children are the property of the husband. How will William react when he is passed over for a son? Can I have a son? Mother had five daughters. I would love a daughter…I would never hurt her with words…if I am enceinte, I pray for a son. I pray for a son…I pray for a son.'

"You rest when you need to, and I will not make any dishes which make you ill," Mrs. Manning promised. "Sexton Tucker will discuss planting at the rectory and yearly upkeep with Miss Anne. Additionally…Mr. Collins and Sexton Tucker finished the cemetery catalogue. Miss Anne will ensure Vicar Collins, Sexton Tucker and Curate Stevenson have copies of the catalogue, while she has the original."

Tuesday after Easter

"Mail, milady," Matlock's butler offered a silver salver to Lady Catherine. The Earl of Matlock left early for Parliament business. He would have put the silver salver on the Earl's desk, but Lady Catherine entered the hallway right after he paid the post. She took the half dozen envelopes. The first four were invitations to dinner parties for Lord Matlock and herself. The other two letters were in unfamiliar handwriting and were sent by express post to her.

~X~

April 15

Stafford House, Scarborough

Dear Lady de Bourgh,

I apologize for this letter as we have never been introduced. I am Caroline Bingley, sister of Charles Bingley, who is a particular friend of your nephew, Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley.

My sister, Mrs. Howard Hurst, informed me of the impending nuptials between my brother Charles and Miss Jane Bennet. While this is vexing news, neither Louisa nor I can change the situation. While their betrothal has not been announced in the papers, the betrothal is common knowledge at Brooks and White men's clubs in London.

Additional rumors abound. Once Jane Bennet weds, her sister Elizabeth Bennet will not wear the Miss Bennet title for long. As Jane and Elizabeth are sisters and best friends, rumors abound they will marry best friends Charles and Mr. Darcy. I am sure the rumor is vigorously circulated by their aunt in Cheapside. Miss Elizabeth Bennet is currently visiting her sister, Mrs. William Collins, at Hunsford Parsonage. Miss Elizabeth is often in the company of Mr. Darcy, as your daughter, Miss Anne de Bourgh, entertains the guests from Hunsford Parsonage. Both residences host a house party at this time and socialize frequently with one another.

You are the only person who can thwart Miss Elizabeth Bennet's plot to ensnare your nephew into marriage. Her low portion is only exceeded by her low connections and her lack of accomplishments. We cannot save my brother from marrying beneath himself…however it is not too late for the Earl of Matlock and yourself, Lady de Bourgh, to save Mr. Darcy.

Sincerely,

Caroline Bingley

~X~

Lady Catherine ripped into the letter from Mrs. Jenkinson. Anne cancelled the community open house at the parsonage. She countermanded Lady Catherine's topic for the Easter Sermon, and countermanded the extended three-hour service. She hosted an open house for tenants, workers and staff at Rosings for Easter.

Mrs. Jenkinson notified Lady Catherine of the riding parties and picnics. She described the Sunday garden parties, dinners and dance lessons. The music master provided dance music for Sunday evening entertainment. The dance master taught Anne and her cousins the Viennese Waltz. Her nephews were dance partners for Miss Anne, the Bennet girls and Miss Lucas. Even the vicar and his wife were learning the waltz! With her art, music, French, needlework and dancing masters, Anne and her cousins consorted with the vicar's wife and her single female guests.

Lady Catherine consulted her diary, for this situation required her presence at Rosings. She could not leave until after paying important calls on Saturday, but she would have enough time to travel from London to Rosings between late afternoon and midnight. Perhaps Reginald and Constance would host an engagement ball for Darcy and Anne before the end of the Season. If she planned correctly, Darcy and Anne could be the first ton wedding of the Little Season. Darcy and Anne must be engaged before May first. Lady Catherine would not lose Rosings Park or be banished to the Dower House for the remainder of her days. She thanked goodness she had the foresight to remove the copy of Sir Lewis' will from his ledgers at Rosings a decade ago.

April 20

The parsonage was awakened after midnight and before dawn by pounding on the front door.

"Someone must be birthing a baby," Mary attempted to soothe an irritated Mr. Collins.

Mr. Manning spoke with someone at the door before calling up the stairs. "Frost warning! Rosings lit their firepits and are covering the gardens with blankets to prevent blight. I'm going to the acreage to light the firepits."

"You'll need help," Mary moved to dress quickly.

"I need Mr. Collins to light the firepits…you need two or three women and all the old blankets you can muster.

"We have some blankets, but I don't think we have enough." Mary fretted.

"Holland cloths," Mrs. Manning announced. "We have enough to cover two and ten rooms of furniture. They should be enough to cover the gardens."

"We'll help!" Kitty announced to her sleepy sisters. "I need help with my buttons! Forget the bonnets – tie a warm shawl over your head."

"I have extra woolen mitts for working in the garden," Mary announced.

"I'll get them and meet you by the back door," Mrs. Manning announced. "Barlow will light a fire in the morning room and rouse the one in the kitchen. I'll send Lowe to Rosings to remind them to use Holland cloths in the gardens. There are 40 rooms of them at the Dower House."

"Good thinking!" Mary responded. "We'll need a hot breakfast for all of us. I need help with my buttons!" Mary appreciated the woolen dress, stockings and flannel petticoats stored away in a trunk. "I have winter clothes ladies if you need to borrow warmer attire."

~X~

Shortly after breakfast Lowe returned with a wagon of firewood. "Miss Anne said to keep the firepits lit until the danger is past. She sent a wagon of green firewood for the pits. She warned the green wood is not for use in the fireplaces. Oh, she requested we light fires in all the rooms. She doesn't want anyone getting sick from this cold weather."

"Come take a break and eat some hot food. Mr. Manning and Sexton Tucker can unload the wagon and move the wood to the orchard and acreage." Mary directed.

"I'll help…if someone comes for me, I'll be out with the men," Mr. Collins offered. "Thank you for remembering to cover my roses," he kissed the flannel mob cap which topped Mary's head.

"Hot soup for midday and dinner," Mary directed Mrs. Manning. "I need Barlow and hot water…how about the rest of you?"

Friday after Easter, April 23

"Express post? Did you receive bad news?" Lizzy watched Mary's face.

"We have been invited to Rosings for tea at three on Sunday afternoon," Mary announced. "Lady Catherine desires our presence. I am sure she knows we are regular guests at Rosings. Miss Anne recovered her health and Lady Catherine states she is anxious to discuss the situation with me. Just wear your new silk dresses and dress your hair with matching ribbons. Mr. Collins may be discomposed, but there is no reason for us to fret. We are the daughters of a gentleman and know how to comport ourselves."

As Lizzy walked in the Rosings grove Friday morning, she contemplated the immediate return of Lady Catherine. The Season and Parliament were ongoing concerns in London. Mary might be composed, but Lizzy felt this news did not bode well.

"Miss Elizabeth," Darcy encountered Lizzy when walking. "I am pleased to meet you in the grove this morning because there are many things on my mind. May I join you?" Darcy waited for her approval before he continued. "Long I have strived to avoid any association with young ladies. I told myself most families from the ton did not understand me or the needs of my family and estate. The woman I marry must be a capable mistress to one of the largest estates in England. She must be a kind, caring, thoughtful creature who will honor the Darcy name and Pemberley. Additionally, she must be a good friend and provide guidance for my sister Georgiana." He knelt on one knee and took her hands in his. "Dearest Elizabeth, please honor me by becoming my beloved wife."

Elizabeth burst into tears. "Mr. Darcy, I thank you for your offer of marriage…but I cannot accept. I know Lady Catherine anticipates announcing your engagement to your cousin, Anne. I cannot be the reason your sister's future is uncertain. I cannot be the reason your family shuns you. I cannot cause unhappiness and despair to a woman I regard as a dear friend. I have grown very fond of your cousin Anne. My sisters are very important to me. I cannot endanger Mr. Collins' living and affect Mary's future." Lizzy pulled away from Darcy, ran to the parsonage, locked herself in her room and cried until she sickened with a headache.

Darcy dragged himself over to a stone bench in a little clearing of the Rosings grove. 'Elizabeth refused me. How did that happen? Who told Elizabeth I am engaged to Anne? Although she did not say it, I could see the disappointment in her eyes. She thinks I acted in an ungentlemanly manner.' He discussed his intention to offer for Miss Elizabeth with Anne and Fitzwilliam this week. They both supported his choice of a wife. He walked slowly back to Rosings. His feet knew the way, but his hurt-filled mind felt Elizabeth rejected him. He sat in a chair, staring out the window of his room.

"What happened to William?" Richard planned to increase his time in the saddle, preparing his return to the War Office. Sgt. Armstrong, his batman, brought Richard's horse to Rosings so he could ride.

"I have no understanding of the situation. Roberts reported Darcy hasn't left his room since early this morning. Darcy won't let Roberts bring him food or drink. Do you think he offered for Elizabeth? Do you think she refused him?" Anne wrapped her arms around herself, steeling herself against bad news.

"We must have the truth of this. I'll talk to Darcy, you talk to Elizabeth. They are meant for one another. I don't understand." Richard rang for the servants. "Miss Anne needs her phaeton and ponies. She needs a pelisse and bonnet. She needs a groom to handle the ponies while she visits Hunsford Parsonage."

"We must settle this before Mother returns from London. We have four and twenty hours to get answers." Anna reached for her pelisse and bonnet. "I'll be back as quick as possible."

~X~

"What are you doing?" Anne observed Lizzy and Mary sorting items and open trunks.

"Packing to depart Monday for Longbourn. Father wrote to urge Kitty and me to hasten our return. Jane desires my help with wedding plans." Lizzy could not look at Anne. Mary shook her head slightly at her friend.

"Mary, I would never give orders in your home as Mother would, but please leave us. I must speak to Elizabeth privately," Anne waited for Mary to leave. "I will have the truth of the situation Elizabeth. I feel I will lose your friendship forever if you leave without talking to me."

"I need to return to Longbourn. Papa misses me." Lizzy's bandboxes were open, the traveling trunks were open...Lizzy's possessions were as disorganized as her thoughts.

"You are lucky to have such a wonderful father. Darcy lost his parents, and I lost my Papa. I feel I have been Mother's greatest disappointment. Do you feel that way sometimes, Elizabeth?" Anne's hands clutched and released the ribbons of her bonnet.

"Yes, Mother says I'm too headstrong and I read too much. She says no man will want me because of my pert opinions and my habit of taking long walks." Lizzy fussed over how things were arranged in her trunks.

"Mother stated my fragile health and lack of accomplishments did not matter. She claimed Darcy and I had been engaged since birth. She demanded he follow his familial duty and honor the cradle engagement. She felt I was too ill to travel to London or Bath…yet she cannot wait for me to marry and move to Pemberley to take my place as mistress." Anne watched Lizzy break down into tears.

Lizzy looked out the window onto the small park with rose bushes separating the parsonage from the road. What could she say? 'Darcy offered for me, although he is promised to you?'

"I'm sorry I will disappoint Mother again when she returns. I have no intention of holding Darcy to a fleeting thought which our mothers discussed when we were babies. Darcy and I are too much alike to achieve a successful marriage with one another. We are both shy. We are too taciturn for one another. We both need someone to make us laugh. I told Darcy I will not marry him. We are both free of the cradle engagement which never existed as far as either of us are concerned." Anne sat quietly in her chair and did not fidget. "The problem is…I have a heart condition. None of Mary's tonics or broths or sherries will cure my heart. My heart is not sick. My heart is not weak. However, my heart is not in love with Darcy either."

Lizzy turned to stare at Anne.

"Elizabeth, I am about to reveal my secret to you. However, you can ever reveal my secret to anyone." Once Anne elicited a promise from Elizabeth she continued. "When I say how much I esteem Fitzwilliam…how much I depend upon him…I do not mean Darcy. Fitzwilliam…Richard has become very dear to me. He makes me laugh when I am sad. He provides conversation when I would hide from the world. I admire his strength and courage. I admire the way he cares for others. He helps me make informed decisions about Rosings. I believe if he were to quit His Majesty's Army, we could come to an understanding with one another. My dowry and my inheritance mean nothing to him. Impressing the ton means nothing to him. Your liveliness is perfect for Darcy, Fitzwilliam's is perfect for me. You will make Darcy happy Elizabeth. Fitzwilliam will make me happy. Let us both recognize the love which waits for each of us."

Anne waited but Elizabeth did not respond. "Elizabeth, there is no betrothal between Darcy and me. He loves you. He asked for Fitzwilliam and my blessings to marry you. If you do not love him…if you cannot share your life with him…then yes, please go home and cease torturing him." Anne advised.

"I cannot marry Mr. Darcy if my actions create a situation for you, for Mary and Mr. Collins, or cause a chasm between him and his family." Contained tears were evident in Lizzy's trembling voice. 'He is exactly the man who, in disposition and talents, would most suit me. His understanding and temper, though unlike mine, would have answered all my wishes. A union would have been advantageous to both. My liveliness and propensity to laugh would ease his mind, soften his manners and relieve his burdens. I do not esteem Mr. Darcy for his position and funds, but for his judgement, information, and knowledge of the world.'

"You know…for an intelligent girl who improves her mind with reading…you are terribly stupid. Look at your sister, Mary. You know what she started with when she married Mr. Collins. Look at him now. Mary lessens his outstanding faults while she encourages his best traits. She is the best vicar's wife we have had at Hunsford Rectory in my memory. Indeed, I pray Mr. Bennet lives another fifty years, so I may keep my dearest Mary close to me." Anne solemnly examined her friend. "You would do the same for Darcy…lessening his worst traits and encouraging his best."

"Does Mr. Darcy hold me in such high esteem?" Lizzy's question was barely audible.

"Yes, Elizabeth. Darcy is well-pleased to have had this time with your family and friends without interference from his family and friends." Anne shook her head. 'Darcy and Elizabeth are perfect for one another. He, through his position and portion, questions his value. Elizabeth, through her position and portion, questions her value. Their union of two strong willed individuals would bless their family, friends, acquaintances and society for generations.'

"I must be alone," Lizzy's tears revealed her pain. She spent the remainder of the day in her room, crying until she revived her previous headache. Not even Mary's excellent administrations eased her pain.

~X~

Fitzwilliam Darcy sat in his room, staring out at the verdant park of Rosings. Being the master of Pemberley taught him about people and situations. 'How did I read Elizabeth so terribly wrong? Granted, my feelings for her developed quickly and strongly while at Netherfield Park. Both Bingley and I regretted leaving Netherfield Park to handle business in London. However, I never forgot Elizabeth. I am ardently in love with her. I physically ache for her.' Darcy's thoughts were consumed by visions of Elizabeth roaming the grounds of Pemberley…the desire to see the mischief in her eyes when she challenged him…the joy of watching her play the pianoforte and sing for him…he did not understand how she could reject his offer of marriage.

"She was mistaken Darcy. I do not know who told her you were betrothed to me, and I don't care. Elizabeth loves you. You love her. You cannot let your pride keep you from marrying the woman who makes you laugh and who makes you smile." Anne argued.

"Do you think she expects another proposal?" Darcy scowled, angered by his own thoughts. "Her face was so disappointed when I offered for her."

"I think Elizabeth desires to apologize for misunderstanding the situation. This time when you sink on bended knee…just say you admire and love her. Tell her your life is meaningless without her. I'll leave you to fret over your trunks…just like Lizzy fretted over hers when I talked to her." Anne laughed and left Darcy's room.

"Elizabeth will be Pemberley's greatest asset. She will be an excellent mistress, a loving and caring mother, a kind sister to Georgiana, and a perfect wife for you. I envy you…" Fitzwilliam noticed the scowl on Darcy's face and explained. "I have never envied your position or portion…but you found the love of your life. I'm thrilled for you, for Elizabeth, and for Pemberley. However, my very male heart wants a woman who wants me, not what I can provide through first-set connections."

Saturday, April 24

Saturday, Lizzy walked before breakfast in the Rosings grove. She enjoyed hearing the birds and watching the bees buzz the wildflowers. She seemed surprised to come across Darcy who sat in a patch of sun, staring up at the sky. "Miss Elizabeth," he stumbled to his feet and bowed to her. "I'm sorry my offer for your hand disappointed you…"

"Mr. Darcy," Lizzy curtsied. "Please allow me to apologize. My visible disappointment happened because I felt jealous of your cousin, Miss Anne. I did not feel disappointed because you offered for me…I believed you had a prior promise to Miss Anne."

"Who claimed I offered for my cousin Anne?" Darcy inquired gently. 'If her cousin Collins touted this nonsense, then Mary Collins will be a widow before the day ends.'

"Mrs. Jenkinson announced your betrothal at the first garden party, and every time our group met at Rosings. But Mr. Collins reminded me in early April. He expects once Lady Catherine learns of the improvement in Miss de Bourgh's health, she will demand you and your cousins travel to town. He believes your eminent engagement is the reason for Lady Catherine's hasty return to Rosings. He postulates she is anxious to host an engagement ball for Miss Anne and you at the Matlock House in London before the end of the Season."

"Anne spoke to you. You understand there is no offer, no understanding, no attachment between us?" Anxiety creased his patrician features. "You understand we are cousins who care for one another like brother and sister…but not as lovers. Never as lovers."

Lizzy nodded, she could barely speak for fear of tears. "But you are expected to honor the dearest wish of your mothers…"

"The cradle engagement is the dearest fantasy of my Aunt Catherine. Father endured five Seasons in London before he met Mother. He met Aunt Catherine the first year and she pursued him. He did not want Lady Catherine Fitzwilliam. However, Father fell in love with Mother at first sight. He offered for her and they were betrothed for almost a year before Aunt Catherine accepted Sir Lewis. They had a double wedding at St. George's Cathedral." Darcy paused. "Mother always believed a double wedding ensured her wedding was not more grand than Aunt Catherine's own."

"Your mother never desired you marry Anne?" Lizzy watched Darcy shake his head no.

"Before Father died, he made me vow I would marry for love. He made me vow to encourage Georgiana to marry for love. He claimed our duties to Pemberley would be less onerous if we shared them with someone we loved. Mother made him laugh, despite his taciturn nature." Darcy gazed at Elizabeth for a minute, causing her to blush. "You know enough of your mother's flights of fancy to understand Lady Catherine's long-held belief I would marry Anne."

"What drew you to me?" Lizzy's quiet voice unnerved Darcy. "My dowry is not large. Alas…I often forgo improving my accomplishments because I have been enchanted with a new book or a fine walk. You know how I ruin dresses and petticoats by walks after rain. I spend my pin money on sturdy walking boots and appropriate outdoor wear."

"I am weary of deference and attention in the guise of civility. I am weary of debutantes repeating social conversations…the weather, the theatre, Presentation Hour at Hyde Park, tea at Gunter's, vouchers at Almack's, etc. I loathe expectations of society and its events. You are so unlike any woman I ever met. Am I wrong Elizabeth, to believe you would rather curl up before a fire and read instead of entertaining le bon ton at a five-course dinner at the Darcy House in London? Am I wrong to believe you would rather shop for good books instead of silk gowns?"

"Surely you don't want my pert opinions and propensity to laugh to influence your sister?" Lizzy could not yield her point, or her position yet.

"Elizabeth, I must tell you how ardently I admire and love you." Darcy knelt on one knee, holding her hands in his. "I've never met a woman as exceptional as you. I don't believe I ever will. You have bewitched me, body and soul. Will you make me the happiest man in the world? Will you honor me by becoming my wife?"
"I believe the correct form is to express appreciation…" Elizabeth started to say.
"Don't you dare!" Darcy roared at her. "Don't you dare tease me about this!" His eyes filled with tears and his face contorted with pain.
Lizzy pulled her hands from his, and cupped his face, raising his countenance to look at her. "Mr. Darcy, I am not a damsel in distress saying yes to her liege who saved her. I return the ardent love you swore to me. Yes…no hesitations…no reservations. Yes, I will marry you. However, you must be aware I will spend the rest of my life teasing you and sharing my pert opinions, along with my love and devotion." Lizzy arched an eyebrow.
"Call me by my name…" Darcy begged.
"I cannot for Fitzwilliam reminds me of the Colonel…"

"My Christian name is Mother's maiden name, Fitzwilliam. Whenever I am in company of my cousins, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and Viscount Robert Fitzwilliam and my uncle, Lord Reginald Fitzwilliam, Sixth Earl of Matlock, everyone calls me Darcy for public or large events, and William for family gatherings."

"Very well…William…I will marry you!" Lizzy laughed.
Darcy stood and spun her around and around and around. "I accept your hand and your vow to marry me, Elizabeth. Anne tells me you packed your trunk. I believe this is serendipitous. We may depart early Monday morning for Longbourn. Miss Kitty and Miss Charlotte may ride with you in my carriage. I will be an outrider. I cannot wait to beg your father for your hand in marriage."

Darcy bent his head to hers and tasted her soft lips. She responded instinctively, reaching up to touch his face. When they broke apart, he rested his forehead against hers before drawing back. "Thank you for accepting me, Elizabeth. Thank you for the stolen kiss." He straightened and winked at her, watching her blush. He held her hand in the crook of his arm as he walked her back to the parsonage. "We will announce our engagement at tea with my Aunt Catherine tomorrow. I will speak to your father Monday. Tuesday, I must go to London to have the marriage articles prepared and conduct business. Perhaps Bingley and Miss Bennet will encourage us to share their wedding day, and perhaps I can convince them to share our wedding trip. I feel like visiting the Lake District. My uncle and aunt own a home there."

"William…my Mama…" Lizzy hesitated.

"Elizabeth, you do not understand. I have £10,000 a year from the five percents. I earn more through rents, goods, and my other investments. I have three other estates in England which earn three to five thousand a year. I actually bank those profits in separate accounts which are used to fund the estates. I have an estate in Scotland, outside Edinburgh. Again, I bank the profits from that estate separately. My estates are self-sustaining, so they can be willed to children. Pemberley is not financially responsible for supporting the other estates."

Elizabeth shook her head to clear her thoughts. 'William has more than £10,000 a year. Mama must never know.'

"I constantly hear of investment opportunities from men who want to befriend me for my connections and my funds. Additionally, I hear of business opportunities from men trying to lure me into marrying their insipid daughters. Young ladies, who seek protection, tell me about their family's financial status because they want me to save them from poverty." Darcy blushed before he continued.

"You truly don't have a reservation about associating with tradesmen?" Lizzy asked timidly.

""Elizabeth, I own six storefronts on Bond Street. I bought the buildings from the shopkeepers. They used my funds to improve their businesses. I improved the buildings and bartered a percent of the business profits in lieu of rent. They have better buildings and bigger profits. I enjoy Bingley's company and the company of Mrs. Gardiner. I hope, between now and the wedding, Bingley, Mr. Bennet and I can develop business investments together with Mr. Gardiner." Darcy kissed Elizabeth's forehead. "I always knew marrying someone you love complicated the expectations of the ton. Putting fortune, property, family, and lineage above love creates a lifelong business deal where the partners are frequently only interested in their own advantages."

Lizzy had forgiven him for abandoning her in November. She understood why he would not request a courtship from Mr. Collins. She could see his love for her and knew her heart returned his love. She reached out her hand and took his, pulling him gently into her embrace. "I did not know," she murmured.

Darcy lifted his other hand and stroked her cheek. "I imagine you didn't…and I curse my reserve. Every day for the rest of our lives, I will tell you how much I love you and ardently admire you." He dropped her hand and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her against him, molding their bodies to one another. He had never known or tasted the kind of kiss which he took from Elizabeth's lips. When he broke from the embrace, he murmured to her.

"Elizabeth," Darcy sighed. "Your liveliness, impertinence, and desire to read, learn and explore are important to me. I enjoy debating with you. I enjoy discussing books, art, theatre. I don't want a wife who says yes to my face….but by actions or deeds shows how she disregards my heart. I need more than a woman who is concerned with fashion, friends and the ton. I need a wife who is concerned with the needs of my sister, my staff, my tenants. I feel you will ease my thoughts, be my friend, my confidante and my wife. Elizabeth, my heart, my future…they are yours to command for you are now and will forever be the love of my life."

~X~

"Mary, I am not in love with Darcy. Rest assured his heart is committed to Elizabeth, as mine is committed to Fitzwilliam. We have been writing to each other for the past two years. He cannot speak for me…I must speak for myself. Uncle Reggie and Uncle George were like brothers. Aunt Constance was the sister Aunt Anne didn't have in Mother. Fitzwilliam and Darcy are like brothers to one another. I would never do anything to ruin the bond they have. I know Darcy's losses changed him. I would not take away his chance to love and be loved." Anne confessed to her friend. "Please know Fitzwilliam and I intend to champion Darcy and Elizabeth. Anyone who attempts to side with Mother against Darcy and Elizabeth will feel my wrath. I will champion you if Mr. Collins attempts to blame you for Darcy and Elizabeth's attachment."

~X~

"While your parents desire beauty, elegance, well bred, well dowered, and well educated…I want someone to make me happy and be my companion for eternity. I sincerely hope your parents do not side with Aunt Catherine on this issue…because there will be a family breach." William announced. "I offered for Elizabeth and she accepted. We cannot leave for Longbourn until Monday morning. Elizabeth is kind, intelligent, and well read. She has excellent manners which might not be the taste of the ton, but they suit me. She has accomplishments other than languages and pianoforte which drew me to her. She helps her father handle Longbourn, and their tenants. She knows gardens, farms and crop rotation. She rides and can handle the ribbons of a curricle or one horse gig. She knows how to run a house and manage servants in addition to setting a wonderful table. Elizabeth possesses all the qualities I desire for the mistress of Pemberley. Additionally, she is the daughter of a gentleman, and is an excellent sister."

"Are you serious in your intentions?" Richard asked William.

"I am, which is why I'm hiding in your room. I don't think Aunt Catherine will seek me in your room. I cannot chance her forcing a compromise. You taught Anne how to lock and bar the doors to her chambers." William appeared calm…considering the impending discussion with Lady Catherine.

Richard offered his cousin a glass of brandy. "Well then…consider me your shadow until you and the Miss Bennets depart Monday morning." The men toasted the future Mrs. Darcy of Pemberley.