Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 8
April 25
Mr. Collins' dinner prayer requested improved health for Lady Catherine, continued health for Miss Anne, and learning God's true plan for Darcy and Elizabeth. When he finished, Mary quickly added, "Thank you Lord for this food; bless the hands who cooked it; and bless the home in which it is served."
Mr. Collins choked out an "Amen," which everyone at the table repeated. While cutting the bread; Mr. Collins sharpened his tongue. He lashed out at Elizabeth for aspiring above the social circles where she was born and raised.
"Mr. Collins!" Mary's severe tone cut through the babble at the dinner table. "Lady Catherine de Bourgh is certainly deserving of your prayers for her return to health. However, the lady of the house leads the dinner conversation. My dinner conversation does not include you upbraiding Lizzy because Darcy offered for her. Now, let us finish dinner. Our guests need an early evening so they may travel tomorrow."
Lizzy, Kitty and Charlotte fled the dining room as soon as possible. They spent the evening packing and clearing their rooms in anticipation of departing early in the morning for Longbourn. "We have dry roads, but the weather is still cold. I cannot believe the number of hail storms we have endured, nor the daily frosts. I feel guilty abandoning Mary, but we need to return to Longbourn." Lizzy sighed.
"I know it is not fashionable, but I'm wearing my riding habit while we travel." Charlotte announced. "It is the only wool and warm clothing I have. I have decided to wear six petticoats, two pairs of cotton stockings, my riding boots and a bonnet instead of that silly top hat. With a cloak and my kid leather riding gloves…I might stay warm."
"Excellent idea!" Kitty agreed. "While I am sure Mr. Darcy's carriage will be warm, and I'm sure he has rugs…wearing the wool riding habit is sensible! Besides, it and my riding boots require a great deal of space in my limited trunk."
"I am quite curious who sent Lady Catherine the alarming report of Darcy and my engagement? I realize she runs Rosings Park…or she ran Rosings Park…but she certainly does not run Darcy's life or mine!" Lizzy fumed as she packed. "Why did she think her position or portion granted her the right to confront me, to denigrate me and my family?"
"She underestimated you and Darcy…and Miss Anne and Fitzwilliam. The four of you are quite formidable when you join forces." Mary bit her lip to keep from bursting into laughter.
"At least you have arts and allurements," Charlotte brought Lizzy's books from Mary's sitting room. "Imagine how underestimated Kitty and I feel?"
"You can imagine the six weeks I spent with Mr. Collins' venerable patroness," Mary brought their attention back to the task of packing. "While Lady Catherine's objections did not separate you and Darcy, I do not believe I will have an easy time of this situation."
"I wondered why, with Lady Catherine's emphasis on aristocratic family connections, the daughter of an earl only wed a baronet." Charlotte commented. "Now we know why she prefers being called Lady Catherine rather than Lady de Bourgh. I don't think she realized Darcy knew the particulars of her marriage settlement."
"If you have your packing under control, Mr. Collins desires to speak with me." Mary left her sisters and guest to their trunks. Lucky for them, they missed the how to pack trunks properly lecture.
Mary held her temper while Mr. Collins lectured her. "You will support my patroness and make Darcy honor the engagement to Anne."
"There is no honor in the proposed cradle engagement because Mr. Darcy stated no marriage articles had ever been offered or signed. I followed your orders…I did not promote my sisters or my friend to the nephews of your patroness. I did not advise my particular friend, Miss Anne, to give up Mr. Darcy. I did not advise her to learn of her inheritance nor assert her authority at Rosings Park. I have only encouraged her to heal, and gain strength and stamina. I did not advise Colonel Fitzwilliam to support his cousins in their plan to avoid matrimony to one another. I only advised him how to heal his knee and ribs to return to serve His Majesty."
"Your sister's aspirations to a higher station endanger my position and our livelihood." Mr. Collins asserted.
"As Mr. Darcy said – he is a gentleman and Elizabeth is the daughter of a gentleman. She is not aspiring above her station."
Mr. Collins snorted.
"I urge you to ask God for guidance in the upcoming weeks. I intend to support Miss Anne, since Lady Catherine is now indisposed. Miss Anne inherited Rosings Park with advisors on her first and twenty birthday. Miss Anne inherits Rosings Park without advisors on May first when she turns five and twenty. There will be many changes at Rosings Park because Miss Anne plans to live a less opulent life than Lady Catherine."
Mr. Collins gasped. "Miss Anne must preserve the rank! She is the daughter of a baronet and a lady. There are standards to uphold!"
"Mr. Collins…I suggest your time would be better spent supporting Miss Anne rather than distressing her by parroting Lady Catherine's assertions."
Mary's honest appraisal of the situation affronted Mr. Collins. "I do not give your sisters or your friend permission to be conveyed home by Mr. Darcy. They do not deserve such notice. I will contact Mr. Talfort to see if there is room for them on the post coach to Meryton tomorrow."
"I may be bound by marriage to you…but Mr. Darcy offered to convey my sisters and friend to their homes and they have accepted. We cannot object or interfere. I do not want to incur the wrath of Mr. Darcy. My guests will be prepared to depart at dawn if that is his desire." Mary turned her back on Mr. Collins and flounced out of his bookroom.
She heard the door to the bookroom slam closed after her departure. 'Very well…sleep on your sofa tonight in your bookroom! I will not wake you in the morning to partake of a hot breakfast, nor importune my guests or Mr. Darcy!'
Mary requested hot water for herself and her guests at six and help for the guests to dress in travel clothes. She requested Mrs. Manning prepare and serve a hot breakfast in the morning room at seven o'clock. She planned a well-laden picnic basket for her guests to take in the carriage with them to Longbourn. She forbade Mr. Manning from waking Mr. Collins until their guests departed. She explained Mr. Collins did not want them to ride in Mr. Darcy's carriage and planned to send them home via post coach. After their guests left, Mr. Manning could offer hot water to Mr. Collins. She answered questions about Lady Catherine and the situation at Rosings Park. She assured her staff Miss Anne planned to remain at Rosings Park, but would travel regularly to London to monitor Lady Catherine's condition.
~X~
Mrs. Bennet could not wait to brag. She could not wait to see the envy on Lady Lucas's face…and every other matron in Meryton. She couldn't wait to flaunt Jane's new home, and position as the wife of a wealthy and amiable man. The Netherfield Park ballroom would host a wedding breakfast for two hundred. "The drapes in the ballroom are dreadful!" Mrs. Bennet announced. "You must have new drapes before the birthday ball. Additionally, the halls are too dark and cramped. You need brighter wallpaper and thinner hall tables. Nor am I enthralled with the décor of the drawing room and dining room. They must be redecorated before the wedding breakfast."
"The drapes are perfectly serviceable. Decorating a leased home is a foolish expenditure. We are not inclined to spend money extravagantly. Mr. Bingley and I must make changes to our suite at Netherfield Park. Furniture and décor we don't want will go to the Bingley House. Furniture and décor we like at the Bingley House will come to Netherfield Park. We are decided not to decorate the whole of Netherfield Park unless Mr. Bingley offers for it." Mama made Longbourn a comfortable home, but Jane did not want her advise on how to fit up a home.
Mrs. Bennet hated the haste to conduct Jane's wedding. She complained about the lack of time to do things properly. She looked forward to accolades of Jane's beauty and Jane's lucky marriage to the amiable and rich Mr. Bingley. She could not wait to travel to London to shop for Jane's trousseau. She could not wait to suggest which carriage Mr. Bingley purchase for his new wife. She did not understand why Jane seemed reluctant to plan the wedding until Lizzy's return.
~X~
"When a man is in love, jealous, or whipped by the Inquisition, he is no longer himself." Richard quoted.
"Aren't you tired of Voltaire yet?" William sighed.
"Mrs. Bennet's matchmaking is nothing to the machinations of the marriage-minded mothers of the ton. Even at Mrs. Bennet's worst, she is still better than the ton. Men who claim women do not understand war have never seen the strategy shown when attempting to marry off a daughter to the most advantageous position possible." Richard grinned. "Are you packed? Breakfast will be ready at eight so you can depart Rosings while it is still early. Miss Anne's masters depart tomorrow morning for London. Anne and I wrote express messages to the de Bourgh House, Matlock House and Bath. The riders will not depart until dawn."
April 26, 1813
Anne de Bourgh regretted releasing her masters. Her masters insisted she was not stupid; she had not been given the opportunity to learn. She realized how Mother exhausted her, physically and mentally. She pulled her wrapper around her as she observed another cold morning with meagre sunrise at Rosings. She would learn to manage Rosings. She would improve her health. She would improve her accomplishments – all those things Mother claimed she would do better than other young women because she had a superiority of birth. She saw what Mary made of herself, with little money and concentrated effort. Anne should have improved herself, rather than letting Mother have her way.
~X~
Mrs. Phillips always stayed by her window, to watch everyone traversing the street. She regularly threw her window open and called out to passing people to come take tea. Today she spotted Mrs. Forester…and knew she had a plan to put forward.
"Sunny Brighton sounds delightful after the cold weather this past week." Mrs. Phillips shared her excitement with Sophia Forester. "Who are you inviting to be your particular friend and companion while you are in Brighton?" Her casual question accompanied a perfectly prepared cup of tea and an offer of perfectly prepared sugar biscuits.
"I am not understanding?" Sophia Forester was not overly intelligent. She knew Colonel Forester married her for her money, her youth and her ability to impress his superior officers.
"You are the senior officer's wife. You will be in Brighton with other officers' wives. You must show no partiality; you must treat all officers' wives equally. Partiality could be construed as an advancement opportunity for one of your husband's underlings. You must take a young lady with you as your particular friend. She must be a gentleman's daughter who will not offend the established society of Brighton. She must be a pretty, lively sort of girl to help your shy guests along, encouraging them to have a good time. How well you hostess reflects on your husband's standing in the militia and his appropriateness for advancement."
"I had not considered such issues," Sophia admitted. "Whom do you recommend?"
"Charlotte Lucas is too old. She would be a dull companion for you. Maria is very pretty and almost your age, but I don't believe Sir Lucas would allow her to travel with you. The Goulding girl travels to a grandmother in Bath for the summer, so she is not available. Mrs. Long's nieces don't have the gowns needed for entertaining in Brighton. The Bennet girls are the last gentlemen's daughters in Meryton. As their aunt, I can give you an honest assessment of them. Mary is married. Jane is engaged, and I understand she wants Elizabeth to accompany her on the wedding tour. My niece Kitty is pretty and your age. However, I believe she will spend the summer traveling with her uncle and aunt from London. Lydia is lively, and with her sisters married or gone, Lydia has no company for the summer. I believe the two of you will rub along quite well. Lydia knows how to set a good table from her mother. She knows how to arrange card parties and entertainments from me. She does love a ball or dance!"
"Lydia?" Sophia Forester and Lydia did rub along well. With adequate funds and a summer wardrobe, Lydia would be an excellent companion for Brighton! "I am decided. I will invite Lydia to tour Brighton with us this summer. I had better ask her this week as the militia leaves for Brighton on the first of June. I want her to have time to visit the modiste."
~X~
Lizzy, Kitty or Charlotte had never seen a fine, well-sprung carriage like Mr. Darcy's carriage. The comfortable interior boasted rich burgundy squabs, with black accents, and thick, warm rugs. The brass coal box heated the carriage for the ladies. The windows were clean and wide to let in as much light as possible, because Mr. Darcy liked to read during his travels. His team of four matching black carriage horses were all the same size, and well-groomed before being harnessed. Despite not being crested, Mr. Darcy's carriage commanded reverence when it stopped at inns across England.
Mrs. Bennet seemed shocked when a large, well-appointed chaise and four entered the park at Longbourn late in the afternoon. "Mr. Bingley's sisters and their aunt from Scarborough must be arriving. Hill…Hill! I must order a fine tea! Oh, why didn't you ask when they were arriving!" She scolded Jane. "You must teach Mr. Bingley to let you know when to expect callers! Otherwise your cook will bake every morning! Oh, and I must talk with Mrs. Nichols before the wedding. You need several pounds of good green tea for entertaining, and crates of good brandy, port, wine and sherry."
"I'm making a list Mama," Jane gestured at several sheets of paper before her. "I don't believe Charles' sisters are calling. I believe they are still in Scarborough."
"Oh la! They brought Mr. Darcy with them. He's on horseback with another outrider." Lydia announced with distaste. She watched as the carriage drew to a stop. Mr. Darcy opened the carriage door and handed Kitty out. "KITTY!" She yelled and ran for the front door. She intercepted Kitty before she entered the house. "I want to see all your new things!" Lydia linked arms with Kitty. "What are you wearing?"
"My riding habit…it is the warmer than my travel clothes. I must say hello to Mama, Papa and Jane first, and I want to refresh. Perhaps after we have some tea and refreshments, I can unpack my things with your help." Kitty grew up while at Hunsford with Lizzy, Charlotte, Mary and Miss Anne. She had become a modest young lady with admirable traits and accomplishments. She withdrew her arm from Lydia and stepped forward to greet Mama.
Jane laid her papers aside and ran to the door also. "Lizzy!" The two hugged one another for a long time until Mr. Darcy cleared his throat. "Sorry," Jane withdrew from hugging Lizzy. "Good afternoon Mr. Darcy," she curtsied. "Will you join us for tea and refreshments?"
"I would enjoy some tea very much," Darcy offered her a genuine bow and a smile. "I understand I should offer you my best wishes."
"Indeed," Jane blushed. "After your men unload the carriage, we have hot drink and refreshments for them in the kitchen."
"Thank you for the offer, but they are going forward to Netherfield after unloading. The coachman wants to stable the horses before it becomes too cold out. My groom will stay with the riding horses while I am here." Darcy dusted the dirt from his great coat.
"Let's go through then," Jane gestured toward the door, linking arms with Lizzy. "I'm so glad you've returned…" she whispered to Lizzy. "I need a voice of sensibility. Mama has been in raptures. I cannot abide much more. She defers to everything Bingley says…but she will not listen to Papa or me."
"Thank goodness he's a sensible young man," Lizzy whispered with glee to her sister. "Come help me change." Once they were in Lizzy's room, she told her favorite sister and best friend everything.
"Oh, Lizzy! I'm so happy for you!" Jane hugged her favorite sister.
"I'm so happy for you!" Lizzy hugged her back.
"I'm so glad you are here. Between the two of us, and with help from Papa…we will have the kind of wedding we want." Jane almost danced around Lizzy's room.
"Small, elegant…" Lizzy's whispers were hopeful.
"Standing up for each other, with our grooms standing up for each other…a double wedding…" Jane concurred.
"Only if we can control Mama." Lizzy could not help but smile.
"The hardest part is over. I have been waiting for your support and understanding. Mr. Bingley and I have attended so many teas, dinners, and card parties. We are exhausted, and Mama has barely started." Jane sank into the chair in Lizzy's room.
"Speaking of getting started." Lizzy told Jane about the confrontation with Lady Catherine. "I'm sure Mr. Collins blames me for his patroness falling ill. I will be at fault if Mama swoons over Mr. Darcy offering for me. After all, she must keep up with Lady Catherine."
"Lizzy!" Jane scolded, but her laughing eyes gave her good humor away. "Better now? Let's go save your young man from Mama's ill manners and pronounced dislike of him."
After Lizzy and Kitty refreshed themselves and changed out of their travel clothes, they joined Mama and their sisters in the drawing room. "Mr. Darcy asked to see Mr. Bennet," Mrs. Bennet sniffed. "I suppose my company is not as lofty as that of his relatives."
"Lizzy," Mr. Bennet hugged her when he entered the drawing room with Mr. Darcy close behind. "Welcome home!" He left Lizzy and approached Kitty, kissing her cheek, and draping his arm about her shoulders. "Kitty, welcome home also. I have missed you, although I suspect Lydia believes no one missed you as much as she. Mr. Darcy, let me thank you again for bringing my girls home to me."
"You are very welcome sir," Mr. Darcy smiled.
Lizzy nodded slightly at Mr. Darcy, letting him know Jane knew about their engagement.
"Come, take some tea with us before you travel to Netherfield Park. Are you available to attend dinner this evening with your amiable friend Mr. Bingley or will you take a rest after your travels today?" Mrs. Bennet primly offered Mr. Darcy the seat between Kitty and Lydia.
"Thank you, Mrs. Bennet. I will stay for tea, and I will be pleased to attend dinner with Mr. Bingley this evening." Mr. Darcy seated himself at the table near Lizzy and Jane.
Mrs. Bennet applied herself to preparing tea. "Lydia, please help me." She handed Lydia tea cups as she prepared them. "Mr. Darcy, you like medium dark tea, correct?"
"No Mama," Jane interrupted. "That is how Mr. Bingley likes his tea. Mr. Darcy likes his tea like Papa's – hot, strong and a little sweet."
Mrs. Bennet watched as Lydia delivered Mr. Darcy's tea.
"Thank you, Mrs. Bennet, Miss Lydia," Mr. Darcy smiled at both.
"Attend me Jane; slice the seed cake and send it around. Perhaps Mr. Bingley was notified of your arrival, Mr. Darcy, when your carriage arrived at Netherfield. I'm sure tea with us would be preferable to having tea by himself." Mrs. Bennet frowned as she continued to make cups of tea. 'Insufferable man! He should have sat between Kitty and Lydia. I want him to pay attention to Lydia. If I can get Jane to ask Lydia to stand up for her; Mr. Darcy may be distracted by my Lydia and leave Bingley to Jane.'
"Mama, Mr. Bingley turned down your invitation to visit today because he is meeting with his steward. This cold weather impedes their spring tasks." Jane reminded Mama, slipping double portions of cake to Mr. Bennet and Mr. Darcy.
"Does Bingley need me at Netherfield to meet with his steward?" Mr. Darcy consulted Jane.
"I think that's an excellent idea…" Mrs. Bennet started to say, when Jane interrupted.
"Thank you for the kind offer, Mr. Darcy. However, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Mason are touring the Netherfield orangery and main farm today. Mr. Bingley bade me write sister Mary. He would like to tour the main farm with her when she comes for the wedding. She made suggestions in the past for its improvement."
"Thank you, Miss Bennet," Darcy accepted the seed cake from Jane. She understood he and Lizzy accepted her offer to share the June thirtieth wedding date.
"Have you read any interesting books, Lizzy?" Mr. Bennet wondered if the Hunsford Parsonage library had improved since his visit.
"Several novels, Papa. The library at Rosings Park was quite improved before we left! While cleaning and organizing rooms, Miss Anne's staff returned all the books they found to the library. Miss Anne decreed the drawing room too large for our group. We began using the library as a drawing room for the nine of us if you include Mrs. Gardiner." Lizzy could not wait to share Mrs. Gardiner had been inside Rosings Park. Mama would be jealous.
"Seven and ten," Kitty amended Lizzy's statement. "You forgot Mrs. Jenkinson, and the six masters. They did not join us every evening, but the library proved quite pleasant when we were a large group."
"Masters," Mrs. Bennet swallowed hard before drinking deeply of her tea.
"You remember Mama," Jane eased the conversation. "Miss de Bourgh engaged art, music, French and dancing masters which she shared with my sisters and Charlotte. They were able to improve their accomplishments. Lady Matlock suggested a needlework master and a general education master also."
"We also had riding lessons from Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy. I told you in letters about riding lessons, picnics, drawing lessons, garden parties and dinners at Rosings." Kitty's stories about Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Anne de Bourgh, while walking the gardens and engaging in French lessons enthralled Father and Jane…but vexed Mama and Lydia. "Mademoiselle de la Coeur helped me read Madame de Staël's novels Delphine and Corinne in their original French." Kitty chattered on about the novels, which made Mr. Bennet beam with pride. "I am certainly not proficient, but I have increased my vocabulary and have a better understanding of conjugating French verbs. Thank you for the French primer, Papa."
"Thank you for the tea, Mrs. Bennet, but I should journey to Netherfield," Mr. Darcy stood.
"Come to dinner tonight with Mr. Bingley," Mr. Bennet reminded him.
"Lydia, do escort Mr. Darcy to the door…" Mrs. Bennet directed.
"I will do it, Mama. I know Lydia is anxious to ask Kitty about her birthday presents." Lizzy moved to the door with Mr. Darcy. She gave him a chaste kiss goodbye when no one could see them.
"I can't wait to welcome you to London." Darcy whispered to Lizzy when he noticed their conversation was not monitored. "I want to take you to the theater and opera, to museums, and bookshops. I want to walk with you in parks and take you to Gunter's Ices. I want to show you the Darcy House."
"Please forgive me in advance," Lizzy implored Darcy. "Mama might thank you for days for taking her stubborn, intractable, unbiddable daughter off her hands. Papa probably granted permission in order to gain access to your fine library at Pemberley."
"Until tonight," Darcy whispered in her ear, enjoying the becoming blush Elizabeth sported only for him.
Lizzy and Kitty did not know they returned to a house under siege. Colonel Forester requested Lydia tour Brighton for the entire summer with Mrs. Forester as her particular friend. Mr. Bennet refused, citing Jane's wedding and Lydia's age. In truth, the militia lost favor in the community around Christmas. Mr. Bennet realized more would be lost than peace and quiet in his home if Lydia went to Brighton. Lydia and Mrs. Bennet worked on Mr. Bennet since the invitation arrived; but he remained stalwart in his refusal. He threatened to fine their pin moneys if they did not abandon the scheme.
Mrs. Bennet did not approve of her daughters' return despite Mr. Bennet's and Jane's enjoyment of seeing Lizzy and Kitty. Mrs. Bennet hoped for a trip to Hunsford on the way to London. She had yet to see how Mary lived and was quite curious about the opulence at Rosings Park. Mrs. Bennet managed to not lash out at Lizzy until Mr. Darcy departed. "Why did you return so early!" She demanded from Lizzy and Kitty. "I planned to visit Rosings Park when Jane, Lydia and I shopped for wedding clothes in London!"
"We were not at Rosings Park, Mama," Kitty calmly corrected Mama. "We were with Mary at Hunsford Parsonage…which you know abuts Rosings Park." Kitty described the gardens and lawns of Rosings Park. She described the music room, ballroom, dining room and drawing room. She answered every question Mama put forward.
"Lizzy, might I have a word?" Mr. Bennet opened the drawing room door and gestured for Lizzy to join him in his library. "Lizzy…Lady Catherine really had an apoplectic fit when Darcy announced your engagement?" Mr. Bennet shook his head. "He offered for you Lizzy and assured me he loves you and you love him. I gave him my blessings; but I would endure his anger if you do not want him."
"Please be kind to him Papa. I love him so very much." Lizzy pled quite prettily for Papa's acceptance of Fitzwilliam Darcy. "I did not know how much until he refused to give me up when Lady Catherine demanded. I am sure I will grow to love him more as we build our lives together." Lizzy explained Darcy would check on Lady Catherine's health while in London. If Lady Catherine's fragile health would not last until July, Darcy would seek a special license. They would marry at St. James in London, so his family could attend. If Lady Catherine's health abides, they planned to marry in June with Jane and Bingley.
"Your Mama has not forgiven him for the comment regarding your handsomeness at the Meryton Assembly." Mr. Bennet confided in Lizzy. "I do not understand it, for she always claims the Bennet girls are the prettiest in Hertfordshire. Yet she always tells you, Mary and Kitty that you are nothing to Jane's beauty or Lydia's liveliness."
"I am not worried; I know the value and worth of Darcy's love. You will learn to value him for more than his excellent libraries. Mayhap I will prevail upon you to explain how Mama and Mr. Collins should strive to be amiable with Darcy." Lizzy's smile played about her lips.
Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrows. "Such a challenge! It is a wise father who knows his own child."
"Shakespeare," Lizzy noted. "However, it doesn't apply to Mama, for I fear she has never known me. I'm not marrying Darcy for pin money, gowns, carriages, and a fine house in London. I'm not marrying Darcy to keep Mama from starving in the hedgerows, either. You must temper her exultations, Papa. I cannot bear her bragging about my engagement when she's never been friendly to Darcy. She is cold and barely polite to him."
"Expectation is the root of all heartache," Mr. Bennet sighed. "We expected to have a son to answer the demands of the entail. Although your sister Lydia is too lively for my taste, I would not exchange any of my daughters for a son. Before Father passed, we were able to change the entail to skip Collins in favor of a grandson born before I died. Phillips, Gardiner, Mary, you and I are the only ones who know."
"You didn't tell Mr. Collins' father about the entail change?" Lizzy could not fathom how Mary prepared Mr. Collins to live at Longbourn as a gentleman, knowing he might be passed over for a grandson.
"William Bennet Collins received notification when we changed the entail to single succession inheritance. I don't think William Bennet Collins told his heirs about the change to the entail. George Collins buried his father in the Bennet family plot at St. Albans. George Collins requested I keep the boards of Longbourn intact so his son, William, would not spend his grandfather's legacy to maintain the property. I did not advise him of the change to the entail, as he irritated me. Thus the communication between the branches of the family ended until I received the letter from the current Mr. Collins." Mr. Bennet reached for his pipe. "Father requested your Mama and Aunt Deborah not be apprised of the situation. Gardiner and Phillips know, but they have been sworn to secrecy."
"Mama believes Jane will bear the first grandson," Lizzy observed.
"I don't want to hurt your Mama's feelings…but nothing she has set her cap at, other than Mr. Bingley offering for Jane, has come to pass." Mr. Bennet laughed.
"Such as?" Lizzy's suspicious voice made Mr. Bennet chuckle.
"She planned to throw you at Mr. Collins. You would remain at Hunsford Rectory near Lady Catherine. You would throw your sisters into the path of Colonel Fitzwilliam or Mr. Darcy. Jane would throw your sisters into the path of Mr. Bingley's friends who visited Netherfield. Mary would remain at Longbourn for the remainder of her life to care for your aging parents. If Mr. Collins did not sell Longbourn to Mr. Bingley; it would not be a loss. You, as the wife of Mr. Collins, would not turn your unmarried sisters and widowed Mama out into the hedgerows."
"She planned to marry me off to Mr. Collins?" Lizzy, shocked and dismayed, could barely contain her vexation with her Mama!
"Indeed. Mr. Collins expressed interest in Jane when he first arrived. Mrs. Bennet told him Jane expected an offer from Mr. Bingley. He told me he planned to offer for you; however the situation with Mary occurred." Mr. Bennet seemed amused by this revelation.
"I would not have married him," Lizzy announced. "Papa, I hope you forgive my impertinent thoughts. However, I would have gone to London to become a shopgirl in Gardiner's Emporium. I would take a position in service before I ever married William Collins. While Mary improved his looks and manners – Darcy offering for me offended him. Even after Lady Catherine's collapse, he urged me to renounce the engagement."
"Silly man. Collins does not understand how strong you are, or how silly and determined Mrs. Bennet is." Mr. Bennet's eyes twinkled at the thought of silly Mr. Collins.
"Poor Mama. I must buy her a new silk handkerchief for the wedding as I am sure she worried hers into tatters through her schemes." Lizzy sighed. "I need pencil and paper, Papa. There are lists to make before Mama drags us to London."
"I have a plan for that also," Mr. Benner almost chortled. "Bingley and Darcy have been quite adamant about the trip to London. Let's break the news of your engagement to Mrs. Bennet and Lydia." He pulled a bottle from his pocket. "Darcy gave me a calming draught for Mrs. Bennet. I will give her a cordial now, and a cordial at dinner time."
Lizzy watched with interest as Papa poured a cordial of the calming draught for Mama. He conversed with the girls, asking about their trip. Eventually when conversation dwindled, Mr. Bennet took great pride in announcing the betrothal of Elizabeth to Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.
"Elizabeth Emily Bennet. I am ashamed of you. Engaged to Mr. Darcy! You cannot marry such a proud and disagreeable man! Granted, you will have such gowns, pin money, jewelry and carriages…but those are not enough payment to wed that horrible man!" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed.
"This is a wretched beginning! Indeed, I am in earnest. He loves me, and we are engaged." Lizzy smiled at her silly Mama.
"This cannot be true. I know how much you dislike him!" Mrs. Bennet protested!
"No, Mama. You dislike him! While you do not believe he is as amiable as Mr. Bingley, Fitzwilliam George Darcy is the best man I know! I dearly love him. He suits me and I suit him. He asked Papa for his blessing." Lizzy looked to Papa to confirm the engagement.
"Consider the situation, Mrs. Bennet. Your least favorite daughter is marrying the man you detest the most in the world. With such animosity, you can be guaranteed to never receive invitations to the Darcy House in London, or to his excellent and vast estate, Pemberley in Derbyshire. Alas, you must congratulate him when he returns this evening with Mr. Bingley." Mr. Bennet greatly enjoyed this situation. "Since Mr. Darcy is engaged…you cannot throw Lydia at him."
"Excuse me?" Lydia sputtered. "I would never marry that man…no matter how many gowns or how much pin money he offered. I want to marry a man who dances!"
Mrs. Bennet muttered and flapped her handkerchief…and finally scolded. "Lizzy! Why did you not tell me while Mr. Darcy was here! Your sisters and I would have offered congratulations. Why did you not send an express when he offered for you?"
"Mama, I could not say anything. He would not stay despite Papa and my offers of hospitality. He abhors people who fawn over him…ask Miss Bingley!" Lizzy chided Mama.
'An engagement ball in London! An expensive, exquisite white silk wedding gown with a handmade Honiton lace veil…accompanied by the best white silk accessories available. Six attendants – Lizzy's sisters, Darcy's sister and Miss de Bourgh, dressed in expensive gowns of gold, red or fall green silk with fall bouquets of hothouse roses and lilies. Five or six months of dinners and parties held in Lizzy and Darcy's honor in London…an engagement ball at Matlock House!. A special license! A packed London church filled with members of the ton…a large outdoor group to cheer when the newlyweds leave the church…a wedding breakfast and ball at the Darcy House!' Mrs. Bennet daydreamed until Mr. Bennet announced it would be a double wedding on June thirtieth.
Mr. Bennet repeated himself to ensure Mrs. Bennet heard him this time.
"Absolutely not! Your plans are impossible! How could you set a date for a double wedding without consulting me! I need more time to prepare for a wedding and wedding breakfast which are acceptable for men of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy's society!" Mrs. Bennet shrieked. "I simply cannot prepare for a double wedding by June thirtieth. If you insist on a double wedding, then you must postpone until September thirtieth…or better yet, November thirtieth."
"Mrs. Bennet, although you are known for your skills as a hostess, you will have help. Jane and Lizzy have learned well from you. Both know their prospective husbands. They want a small double wedding with family and close friends – no more than fifty guests. You may plan a wedding breakfast to serve two hundredd. I am sure the three of you, with Mr. Bingley's family and Mr. Darcy's family, can arrange something elegant by June thirtieth." Mr. Bennet asserted.
"Oh Lizzy!" Jane hugged her favorite sister. "We have so much to plan…"
"IF Lady Catherine does not abide, then Darcy will arrange a special license and we will marry in London as quickly as possible." Lizzy informed her family.
"Marry in haste; repent at leisure," Mrs. Bennet opined.
'As we have proof daily,' Lizzy thought uncharitably. "As I informed Lady Catherine, any woman who marries Mr. Darcy shall have such extraordinary sources of happiness that she would have no cause to repine."
"An unhappy situation is before you, Lizzy. Either you disappoint your Mama by being incandescently happy with Darcy; or you disappoint me by making all of us wait months for a large society wedding which neither you nor Darcy desire." Mr. Bennet smiled.
"Darcy and I would not suspend your enjoyment, Papa," Lizzy pronounced. "I am standing up for Jane. She is standing up for me. Bingley and Darcy are standing up for one another. We are taking our wedding tour together. With the number of guests sorted for the wedding and for the wedding breakfast, I'd say we have a good start."
"Excellent," Mr. Bennet hugged Jane and Lizzy. "Although I am loathe to travel to London, I will do so. Eight weeks of wedding preparations and discussions will irritate me greatly, but I appreciate it is not eight months! I am off to my library to avoid discussions of lace, materials and warehouses."
Mr. Bennet relaxed in his library. Lizzy would be wed to a man who adored her. Darcy would wed a woman who respected and loved him. They were both stubborn enough to not bend to the winds of censure by his aunt or by the ton. They were both strong enough to not bend to the whims of Mrs. Bennet. He could not have wished for better for his favorite daughter, Lizzy.
Kitty enjoyed unpacking while Lydia told her the news of Meryton. Her new things made Lydia wildly jealous. Kitty reminded Lydia she had the same amount to spend on clothes as Lydia. However, with careful planning and advice from her sisters and Aunt Gardiner, she purchased needed items instead of spending frivolously. She did not explain her new silk gown and petticoats were a gift from Mary for helping sew for the benefice society. She did not explain the Gardeners gifted the new day dress with wrap, reticule and gloves. Kitty protected her two new bonnets like a goose with her goslings. Lydia had many ideas about how Kitty could remake her bonnets. Lydia's recommendations to replace Kitty's pink trims with red ribbons and flowers did not surprise Kitty. She knew from experience the minute Lydia remade anything her sisters owned with red ribbons and trim…Lydia considered it her own. Mary's sleeveless pelisse was a prime example.
April 27
Mama appeared in full force at breakfast. "Now Lizzy, you will put on the new green linen day dress from Hunsford, the one with the matching accessories. Jane, you will wear your new blue sprigged muslin. I had Lydia remake your summer bonnet with new blue ribbons to match your gloves. Mr. Bennet, we need the horses and carriage. We must call on Lady Lucas, Mrs. Phillips, Mrs. Long, Mrs. Goulding, Mrs. Purvis and of course the modiste and the milliner in Meryton."
"Five calls?" Mr. Bennet chuckled. "The girls don't have time for calls because they must concentrate on lists for trousseaus, wedding plans, wedding tour plans, and new home plans. They have eight weeks until the wedding."
"We must spend all of May in London shopping for your trousseau. There will be daily shopping trips to Bond Street, daily modiste appointments and we can attend some of the Season! We need time to visit the equipage warehouses for the girls to choose new carriages for their own particular use. I must have time to tour the Bingley House and the Darcy House, We need time to visit furniture warehouses for redecorating the Bingley House and the Darcy House before Little Season. Ten thousand a year…five thousand a year…I shall go distracted!" Mrs. Bennet flapped and fluttered her handkerchief, her hands, and nodded her head to emphasize her comments.
"Mama…Darcy arranged for the engagement announcement in the London papers for Bingley and Jane and for Darcy and me. The news will be shared soon enough and every one of our neighbors and friends will be obliged to call and wish us joy," Lizzy explained. "I have no intention of boasting about my good luck to mean-minded matrons who prefer Mr. Wickham's profile, prevarications or performances to Darcy's dedication and demeanor."
Mama ignored the praise for Darcy and the slights for Wickham. "I must begin preparations for the weddings and wedding breakfast. There is so much to do, and we must call on all the local families before the wedding. I've devised a plan. We will call on three families per day on Monday, Wednesday and Friday in June before the birthday ball and the wedding. We can open Netherfield to callers on Tuesdays and Thursdays with dinners those evenings." Mrs. Bennet planned. "The Netherfield drawing room and dining room are larger than Longbourn's, although I loathe the decor which Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst choose."
"Mama, while Bingley is amiable, Darcy is reserved and will not enjoy such activities. I have no ardent affection for such social demands myself. We refuse to be paraded about like a prize team from Tattersalls." Lizzy concentrated on her lists of people to invite, things to do, and trousseau to purchase now and trousseau to purchase after the wedding tour.
"I wish you would move the wedding to September." Mrs. Bennet ignored Lizzy's comments. "We shan't be able to finish your trousseau in two months!"
"Mama, Bingley and I have decided to host one Friday evening dinner the first three weeks in June. We can set four tables of twelve in the ballroom at Netherfield and have dancing and cards after dinner. I've taken the liberty of selecting the guests for each dinner and determining the seating. I selected the menu; Mr. Darcy will teach Bingley how to select the wine. You may ask Kitty and Lydia to help with the décor for the tables in the ballroom." Jane fanned herself with her own lists of things to do.
"I'm the best hostess in Hertfordshire!" Mrs. Bennet argued. "I should be the one determining the guest list, setting the menu, and arranging the seating…especially if you host only one dinner per week until the wedding."
"Jane, as the future mistress of Netherfield, will make those decisions. I will help her and support her. You can brag about how well you have taught us." Lizzy applied her attention to her breakfast, effectively ignoring Papa's delight at her announcement. He did not want to attend daily gatherings to announce the wedding of his two eldest daughters. He wished for sensible Mary to offer wedding and marriage advice to her sisters.
Mrs. Bennet bemoaned having eight weeks to plan the largest wedding and wedding breakfast ever seen by Hertfordshire. She argued she needed more time with Lady Matlock and Lady Fitzwilliam to ensure perfect planning of every detail. She urged the girls to postpone the wedding until September or November. She opined they should open the Darcy House in London for Little Season rather than take a wedding tour. Kitty and Lydia would have a larger society in London with her plan.
"She's not listening," Lizzy informed Jane and Mr. Bennet.
"Take a page from my book, girls. Take yourselves to my study and shut the door. Make your lists in the quiet there." Mr. Bennet advised. "When I can…I will counsel Mrs. Bennet."
April 30 – Hunsford
"My goodness…what a change in this room!" Lady Matlock surveyed the drawing room, looking at the splendid gardens of Rosings out the windows. Drapes were open, allowing sunshine to fill the room. Furniture had been rearranged to comfortably accommodate guests. Lady Catherine's chair no longer dominated the room. "The floral arrangements here and in our guest chambers are quite elegant, Anne!"
"Lessons," Anne replied cheerfully. "Mrs. Collins and her guests have been quite instructive. While I would never have considered putting blue stocks and blush roses with white bells…her guests experiment with flowers a great deal more than me. I don't use the drawing room. We will move to the library." Anne led way across the hall.
Anne rang the bell for Gerard, the butler. "Gerard, may we have tea and refreshments in the library. We need a bottle of brandy, a bottle of sherry and glasses. I want the hallways cleared. No servants to listen at the doors. Mrs. Jenkinson may attend Mother. We don't need a footman; we need privacy. I'm counting on you to ensure staff stays away from the library and hall."
Once everyone had tea and refreshments, the conversation began.
"Her will is adamant. She did not believe you would ever be well before she passed. Therefore, Rosings Park will be overseen by me," Uncle Reginald explained. "I have great faith in your steward, Mr. Knowles."
"Have you read the will Mother had drawn after she traveled to the Matlock House in London? Father's solicitor claims it is not legal since it has not been filed with the courts. However, I think you should read it before we continue this discussion." Anne quietly sipped her tea, observing her uncle.
Reginald Fitzwilliam, the Sixth Earl of Matlock, read Catherine Fitzwilliam de Bourgh's newest version of her will. Appalled, he fell silent. 'Did Catherine lose her bloody mind before she had this document drawn?' If Anne did not marry Fitzwilliam Darcy, she would be banished from Rosings Park. She would inherit the de Bourgh House in London. She would live on the five percent from her dowry. Catherine left £20,000 to William Collins if he divorced Mary Bennet Collins before she produced an heir for Longbourn. She advocated he marry the daughter of a vicar when he remarried. Catherine left Rosings Park, et al, to Richard Fitzwilliam if he left His Majesty's Army, and if he married the daughter of a peer within one year of Catherine's death. She left her private property and funds to Georgiana Darcy if Georgiana married the son of a peer and became a titled woman within one year of Catherine's death. She left the Fitzwilliam family portraits in her possession to Reginald Fitzwilliam, the Sixth Earl of Matlock. She left twenty guineas each to Constance Fitzwilliam, Robert Fitzwilliam, Augusta Fitzwilliam and Fitzwilliam Darcy with recommendations they purchase mourning rings to venerate the passing of Catherine Fitzwilliam de Bourgh.
"This is ridiculous!" Reginald snapped at Anne. "I'm burning it!"
"You cannot," his solicitor intoned. "We must present the new will, and the previous will at court; claiming your sister was mentally unbalanced when the new will was drawn. Her previous will is still valid and will determine how we handle Rosings Park and its funds."
"I understand Mother's will – which is a moot point because Mother is not dead. She left no direction for what would happen if she were to take ill suddenly. Father's will is still in effect. Father left a detailed plan for what would happen if Mother became ill before I inherited Rosings Park. He left a detailed plan for what would happen after I inherited. If you intend to usurp my position at Rosings Park based on Mother's will; Darcy, Fitzwilliam and I will appeal to the crown court. I have been running Rosings Park, with the help of our steward, Mr. Knowles, since January. I can assure you…Rosings Park, my tenants, and my accounts are all as healthy as I am. I have no intention of losing my health while trying to help Mother regain hers." Anne sipped her tea. "Uncle Reggie, you are the executor of Father's will. Or are you as unfamiliar with it as Mother hoped I would be?" Anne brazenly asked.
"I apologize Anne, I don't remember every clause or codicil of Sir Lewis's will." Reading Catherine's proposed will discomposed Reginald.
"Lady Catherine…" Lady Catherine's solicitor began to say.
Anne fixed one of Mother's quelling looks on the man and his voice faded. "Do we need more introductions? The Sixth Earl of Matlock, the Countess of Matlock, the Honorable Richard Fitzwilliam, second son of the Earl of Matlock, and Miss Anne de Bourgh." She pointed to herself. "The only living progeny of Sir Lewis and Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Father's solicitor, Mother's solicitor, and Lord Matlock's solicitor." Her round of introductions, conducted in a curt voice, silenced the solicitors, shocked the aunt and uncle, and brought a huge grin to Fitzwilliam's face. "Please take this time to reread Father's will. This is my only copy. Mother removed the rest from the house. She claimed they are at her solicitor's office in London." Anne passed her copy to her uncle.
"I have a copy of the will and other paperwork for Sir Lewis," his solicitor frowned at Lady Catherine's solicitor.
Reginald Fitzwilliam settled in, with a cup of tea (fortified with a splash of brandy from his flask), and Sir Lewis' will. He sighed deeply at reading it. Sir Lewis left everything to Anne. When Anne attained majority at one and twenty, she inherited, with three trustees to guide her – George Darcy, Reginald Fitzwilliam and Lady Catherine. When Anne reached the grand age of five and twenty, she inherited Rosings Park, with land, properties and funds – without trustees to oversee her decisions and finances. When Anne married, there were recommended codicils to add to her marriage settlement. Sir Lewis recommended the estate be entailed and gifted, in toto, to Anne's second oldest son, if the first inherited title, funds and property from his father. Anne would continue to run Rosings Park until a son could inherit. Anne's husband would live off the percents of Anne's dowry. The husband did not inherit land, funds, investments, etc. The husband could not access any funds, mortgage any lands, or create any debts against Rosings Park, et. al.
Sir Lewis' will specified when Anne turned one and twenty, she would decide if Lady Catherine de Bourgh resided at either the Dower House or the de Bourgh House for the remainder of her life. Lady Catherine could visit the other properties, with invitation from Anne. Her marriage settlement became her jointure funds. The expenditures for servants, food, household needs and upkeep of the Dower House or the de Bourgh House would be provided by Rosings Park until Lady Catherine de Bourgh moved to one or the other. Then the costs for everything, except the physical upkeep of the properties, would be paid by Lady Catherine's jointure funds. The Dower House and the de Bourgh House would remain a holding of Rosings Park.
If Anne died before she inherited, the estate would pass in toto to Richard Anthony Fitzwilliam, the second son of Reginald Fitzwilliam, the Sixth Earl of Matlock. Lady Catherine would be moved to the Dower House or the de Bourgh House, depending on Richard's decision. Again, her jointure funds would pay all expenditures at either the Dower House or the de Bourgh House, except for physical upkeep. The property would remain a holding of Rosings Park.
Sir Lewis left small bequests to his other two nephews, Robert Allen Fitzwilliam and Fitzwilliam George Darcy. To Robert, he left a two and ten books (all histories, philosophies or political treatises), all leather bound and in very fine condition. To Fitzwilliam, he left a small table globe and large atlas displayed on a fine mahogany table podium. Robert would inherit Matlock, and Fitzwilliam would inherit Pemberley. Sir Lewis wanted his equally fine estate to go to Richard, whom he liked so very well. He expressed hope Richard would enjoy the suit of armor in the main hall, the toy soldiers in a wooden box in the office, and the fencing equipment and guns stored in the gun room.
Reginald read that portion of the will again. He looked at Anne, and then he considered Richard.
"Mary Collins took exemplary care of Anne. She believes poor diet and minimal exercise exacerbated Anne's perpetual ill health. Since Anne eats properly, walks or rides daily, and doesn't wear heavy clothes, she is healthier than she has ever been." Richard casually cast this observation out to the assembled company.
"Anne should see a doctor while she is in London, but it will not be anyone possibly connected to Lady Catherine." Reginald suggested.
"I plan to take a written list of Mary Collins' directives to give to the London doctor who has not seen Anne in over a decade. I will call on him and release him with no character and NO further funds." Richard snapped.
"There is much to do. Settling Mother, ensuring the de Bourgh House is comfortable for her, and hiring staff to see to her needs. Then I must learn to manage Rosings." Anne shrugged. "I will not pretend; Rosings and I would have benefited if Mother taught me to manage Rosings. Instead, she attempted to usurp my inheritance."
'She would have served Rosings better if she paid attention to Rosings needs and the tenants instead of her personal wishes and desires,' Constance thought. 'I do not anticipate viewing Matlock House since she has been in residence over three months. However, Catherine needed to be away from Rosings, for Anne's sake.'
Relieved, Reginald reread Sir Lewis de Bourgh's will. He anticipated there would be trouble, for he knew Catherine was overbearing and he thought Anne was still ill. "I'm thrilled you have met the one condition of your father's will which left all of us in a quandary. I did not think you would ever live long enough or be healthy enough to inherit Rosings."
"I planned to regain my health and celebrate my five and twenty birthday on May first. I wish I had made my decision sooner. Mother never foresaw my health would improve to the point I would overthrow her demands." Anne urged her guests to drink their tea and enjoy the sweets prepared for them.
"You are fortunate the estate is not entailed. Rosings Park is yours in less than a day. You should marry before you are thirty and have an heir and a spare. However, that is not a condition of your inheritance." Reginald chuckled. "Your Aunt Constance is looking forward to a peer marriage at St. George's Cathedral in Hanover Square."
"I will not marry some peer of the realm." Anne informed her aunt, who shook her head in dismay at Anne's willfulness. "I recently achieved my freedom. I have no intention of allowing any man to control my life, my fortune, or my property. No man will abandon me at Rosings to drink, gamble or find a bit of muslin in London."
"Anne!" Uncle Reginald, shocked by her words, attempted to speak, but Aunt Constance intervened.
"Proper young ladies don't know about such things! Much less speak of them!" She chastised Anne.
"I'm sorry if I shocked you. However, honesty and forthrightness would have improved the quality of my life a decade ago. We've all play acted for the last decade…it is time to abandon the stage." Anne considered her Uncle Reginald and Aunt Constance for a moment. "I believe I have had my thoughts, opinions and actions dictated to me long enough. I am taking control of my life."
"I am presently engaged with the House of Lords. However, I would like to leave Lady Matlock and your cousin Georgiana with you. I think you may have issues with some of your tenants and I add that toad-eater vicar to the list." Uncle Reginald insisted.
"I do not anticipate problems with Vicar Collins," Anne commented. "I believe Mrs. Collins withstood Mother's interference. I believe she will provide a steadying, learned influence on Vicar Collins."
"Georgiana may stay at Rosings to visit with Anne and me, but we will bring her to London with us. I think Darcy and Elizabeth need her in London and at Netherfield Park. I am not staying to give the orders at Rosings; that is Anne's purview. I will help her settle Aunt Catherine in London, and settle things with her bank and properties," Richard announced. "Then I will return to the War Office in London."
"Let's finish our tea," Anne suggested. "For there are livings to arrange, staff to notify, and work to do. Distractions occur easily; emotions and feelings can overwhelm. I want to keep our priorities foremost. Tomorrow, Mother moves to the de Bourgh House in London. In London, it will be easier for doctors to visit her and easier to find nurses and caretakers."
"We can fit up the de Bourgh carriage to transport her as easily as possible. Mrs. Jenkinson and her maid, Adams, will ride with her. Constance, Augusta and I will return to London in my carriage. Richard, Georgiana and you can return to London tomorrow in the carriage Constance and Georgiana took to Bath," Reginald offered.
"I sent expresses ahead to open the de Bourgh House for Mother and me." Anne explained. "We need to remove Mother from the sphere of influence at Rosings. There is paperwork to file, accounts to change and I need a will. I must arrange for a new doctor to attend Mother."
~X~
"You don't want Mrs. Jenkinson to remain in your employ?" Constance Fitzwilliam felt a bit distressed at Anne's reluctance to keep her companion.
"She is Mother's creature. She listened to Mother's directions and ignored my choices. She did her job well for Mother. I will not allow her to interfere in work I must do. I do not wish to hear her parrot Mother's thoughts and assertions back to me. If a servant or a tenant will not report to me, they will be gone. I will not succor dissention or indolence."
"What will you do with Rosings?" Constance Fitzwilliam continued to press.
"Darcy shared his yearly reports on Rosings with me. We discussed past, present and future issues for Rosings. Overall, things are stable, but there is work to be done. Last season's harvests were disappointing, despite the hard work of my steward, Mr. Knowles. There will be changes as I ensure Rosings endures. Established three generations before me; I intend for it to endure more than three generations after me."
Anne saw the dismay on her aunt's face. "I'm taking control of my life and my heritage, Aunt Constance. Uncle Reginald may feel I am not educated in running my properties, but I will learn. I will hire those who will work and help me. Those who gave worthless servility to Mother should fear for their positions."
"Including Vicar Collins?"
Anne shook her head no. "I have plans for Vicar Collins. I believe with sensible leadership, his head can be turned."
~X~
Richard felt sorry for Anne, who felt she should have learned female accomplishments of music, dancing, hostessing, needlework. He appreciated the strength and kindness she exhibited while dealing with parishioners, tenants and staff. He hoped Anne's strength would help her cope with the daily lessons of the estate…the demands and expectations of the ton…and medical care for her mother.
As the second son of an earl, he understood primogeniture and entails, society, the marriage market, amusements, gentlemen's pursuits, invitations, precedence for seating, and avoiding compromise. As the son of a landowner; Richard learned about tenants, leases, taxes, crops, drought, blight, and livestock. As a soldier, he learned about death, disease, destruction, and want. As a prime example of the male species, he understood manly needs of love and family. However, Anne was not ready to love or make a life with him…not yet. He almost cursed Lady Catherine's influence on Anne's life.
~X~
"What of Miss Anne?" Mr. Collins inquired. "Her marriage prospects have been blighted by your sister's ill-formed actions…"
"Mr. Collins, I believe it would be in your best interests to keep Miss de Bourgh as an interested patroness, for Lady Catherine is in her decline. As both Miss Anne and Mr. Darcy are happy about this situation, perhaps you should temper your judgements. Colonel Fitzwilliam and his parents, the Earl and Countess of Matlock, support Miss Anne. Society should not deem she has no one to guide her since Lady Catherine is indisposed." Mary knew she preached to the choir, for Mr. Collins did not attend her words.
"Someone proper should see to the running of Rosings Park," Mr. Collins argued.
"Someone proper…as in a man?" Mary's question confounded him. "For I believe Lady Catherine held the ribbons of Rosings Park for a decade. You never considered your illustrious patroness needed a man to oversee her decisions. Miss Anne has Mr. Knowles and Mr. Darcy to educate her about running Rosings Park. She has masters to teach her general education, and the feminine arts which she never learned. She is the daughter of a baronet and a lady, the granddaughter and niece of an earl. I believe she has as much authority to run Rosings Park as Lady Catherine."
Mr. Collins gave Mary a positively grim look. However, he retreated to his book room until summoned for dinner. He had written directives from Miss de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam. He could invoke a prayer to improve the health of Lady Catherine. He had been forbidden to discuss why Lady Catherine became ill, or offer an opinion on her return to health. Miss de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam forbid Collins from discussing the future of Rosings Park. They forbid sermons about deference to rank.
Anne discussed teaching needs with Curate Stevenson. She bartered purchase of candles, firewood, slates, chalks and books in exchange for attending duties at the rectory while the Collinses attended duties for her sisters' weddings. They would travel to London in a de Bourgh carriage on May fifteenth and stay at the de Bough House for the remainder of May while they arranged for wedding clothes. They would travel with Miss Anne to Meryton at the end of June for the weddings.
Same day, London
Darcy relied on Bingley for guidance when meeting with Mr. Gardiner. He knew about the warehouses and stores in Cheapside. He knew tradesmen, cits, solicitors and bankers often purchased homes or had offices in the Cheapside area. He often visited that part of town, no matter what the social climbing Miss Bingley thought. Bingley explained Gardiner had a reputation for sound business plans and excellent goods, and was a superior business manager as well as business partner. One could not be friends with Bingley and his roots in trade while silently condemning other successful men who engaged in trade.
"Tell me what you think of this coffee." Gardiner served both the men.
"I enjoy it very much," Bingley announced, and Darcy agreed.
"You must try the cake also." Gardiner served large slices. Bingley moaned with appreciation and Darcy immediately took another large bite. "Delicious, Humm? This is spiced roly poly with cinnamon cream. The coffee is a new blend from West India. I have gone into business with a coffee, chocolate and tea warehouse. However they have other business interests also." Gardiner explained.
"I want to purchase a large quantity of this coffee," Darcy requested. "Elizabeth wants to purchase a large quantity of good green and brown tea for use at Longbourn right now for serving callers. We will want both coffee and tea supplied to the Darcy House in London and to Pemberley in Derbyshire."
Gardiner showed Darcy the costs for a three or six month quantity of tea and coffee. "Bulk orders for coffee or tea are cheaper at Ballard's Best than anywhere else in London because you pay upon ordering. They don't establish accounts for anyone…not even Beau Brummel."
"Agreed, please ask the crates be delivered to the Darcy House. My people can deliver them to Pemberley. We can take supplies to Longbourn." Darcy wrote a bank note for a three-month supply of coffee and tea for Longbourn and a six-month supply for the Darcy House and Pemberley.
Bingley looked at the cost for the coffee and tea and purchased a six-month supply to be delivered to the Bingley House. He would arrange transport to Netherfield. "What is the cost for the roly poly receipt?"
"You must bribe Mrs. Gardiner. She traded Mary's honey biscuits and cherry almond tea cakes receipts to Mrs. Timsdale for it. If you are interested in investing with me, I have a proposition to put forward. I will bribe you to listen with more coffee and cake." He refreshed their coffee cups.
"My partner in the tea, coffee and chocolate warehouse, Ballard's Best, has a new brother. Tobias Timsdale. When Mr. Timsdale's father died, he sold the family house and business in Oxfordshire. He purchased two three-story buildings, which are side by side, with store front windows. They are centrally located between Bond Street and Cheapside. Timsdale plans to open a used bookstore and used furniture store in the storefront of the first building. He plans to open a tea and coffee shop in the storefront of the second building. They will sell packages of tea, coffee and chocolate carried by Ballard's Best. The second floor of both buildings will hold supplies and stock for each of the businesses. Mr. and Mrs. Timsdale would live on the third floor of the first building. Mrs. Timsdale's mother and sister would live in the third floor of the second building."
"Timsdale attended estate sales all over England and purchased books and sheet music. He purchased two thousand used books, and almost five hundred music broadsheets. He thought he would create a lending library because he has almost three hundred copies of some of his books. They will sell other things like second-hand travel writing slopes, reading satchels, art boxes, work boxes, and travel trunks in addition to small décor items like candlesticks, mirrors, small pictures, etc. He has almost one hundred pieces of furniture: small bookcases, music chairs, music stands, small washing stands, night stands, etc. I have seen the quality of the used items which he has in stock and have no reservations about investing with him." Gardiner enjoyed the spice roly poly.
"How does he hear about such opportunities?" Bingley inquired.
"Timsdale has a silent partner who is a solicitor in Oxford with a partner in London. When some of the solicitor's clients are financially strained, he recommends they consult Mr. Timsdale who purchases books, small furniture, etc. from them. I bought the globe and tantalizer from Timsdale." Gardiner pointed at two quality objects in his warehouse office. "Timsdale, like his brother Ballard, will sell for ready cash only. The previous owners of the buildings Timsdale purchased, sold on credit and lost their business because they could not recoup their losses."
"I understand," Bingley commented. "Fewer tradespeople will extend credit to known peers who have financial difficulties. If someone approaches Ballard's Best to establish an account, Ballard can inquire if there are small things they would not mind selling to increase their bank balance."
"We supply four modiste shops on credit, and it has been good for us and them. Although, I warn you against providing Mrs. Bennet with accounts at modiste, milliner or draper shops in London or in Meryton." Gardiner chuckled.
"Her bills could not be any worse than Caroline's modiste, milliner and draper bills," Bingley replied. "So how do the Timsdales plan on supplying their tea and coffee shop?"
"Mrs. Timsdale attended those private sales meetings with Mr. Timsdale. She purchased tea sets, cutlery, odd pieces of china, curates and serving trays. They purchased four and twenty tables for four or six for the tea/coffee shop. She purchased fabric ends from us to make serviettes and tablecloths for the tea shop. The bakery for the shop will be on the second floor, with space for supplies, etc. They opened the first week of May. Mrs. Timsdale, her mother and sister will bake for the business in the early morning. The tea shop will be open from midday to dusk. There was a great deal done to both buildings to prepare them for the new businesses."
"I will gladly invest. I should like to spend an afternoon looking at the books and music which they have for sale." Darcy concurred. "I give you leave to have the paperwork drawn for me."
"I am not a great reader like Darcy, but I do like a good cup of coffee and this cake is splendid. I would enjoy visiting a tea shop where few of my sisters' friends can importune me for information. I give you leave to have paperwork drawn for me also." Bingley agreed.
Same day, Longbourn
"I do not see why we can't go to London tomorrow to begin shopping for your trousseaus." Mrs. Bennet argued with Jane and Lizzy. "I need one week to view the newest fashion plates and the best materials from the best warehouses. We must plan two weeks for the modiste to sew gowns and to seek the best accessories. Then we need another week to ensure you purchased everything you need for your trousseaus. A month in London will suit me quite well."
"You must make do with viewing Kitty's sketches from Hunsford and fashion magazines." Lizzy rebuffed Mama's statement. "We have copies of sketches from Miss de Bourgh's spring wardrobe, and copies of fashion plates from the Hunsford modiste."
"I can view the sketches and fashion plates in the evening after touring warehouses during the day." Mrs. Bennet argued.
"Mama, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are both in London on business. They return on Friday with marriage settlements. We will leave on the fifth and tenth to travel to London. Lizzy, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley and I will travel in Mr. Darcy's carriage. Papa, you, Kitty and Lydia will travel to London in Mr. Bingley's carriage." Jane read from the London travel paper and set it aside.
"I don't understand why you and Jane are staying at the Matlock House. I don't understand why Kitty is staying at the de Bourgh House. Lydia and I should not be abandoned at the Gardiners' home." Mrs. Bennet's querulous voice grated on Jane and Lizzy's nerves. "We should all stay at the Darcy House or the Bingley House where we can be accommodated together. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy must realize your family requires more space for comfort and ease during this busy time! These arrangements do not suit."
"Mr. Bingley's sisters and aunt are not available to act as hostess at the Bingley House. Miss Georgiana is not out yet and cannot act as hostess at the Darcy House." Jane consulted the paper again. "The Bingley House and Darcy House have minimal staff and are not open. Quality staff is impossible to hire in London during the Season."
"I can hostess at either house!" Mrs. Bennet would not let the topic go. "We can take staff from Longbourn and Netherfield Park!"
"Household staff from Longbourn and from Netherfield Park have not been trained to deal with the ton. You cannot commandeer a larger home and play hostess where you have not been invited. I cannot view the Bingley House to make décor decisions if the house is full of guests. I imagine it is the same for Lizzy and the Darcy House."
"We should all be guests at the Matlock House, the de Bourgh House, the Darcy House or the Bingley House. We should not be housed all over the town!" Mrs. Bennet argued.
"There is not enough room for eight of us at Uncle Gardiner's house, in addition to overwhelming his staff. Because of the Season and guests, there is only room at the Matlock House for Darcy, Bingley, Jane and me. Because Lady Catherine is ill, Miss Anne can only take Kitty, Mary and Mr. Collins."
"Eight of us?" Mrs. Bennet questioned.
Lizzy's frowned when she realized Mama did not listen…again. "Papa, you, Jane, me, Kitty, Lydia, Mary and Mr. Collins. They will travel to London to prepare for the wedding also. Lady Matlock offered her home to Jane and me as she wants to introduce me to Miss Darcy and the Fitzwilliam family. Miss Anne offered rooms at the de Bourgh House to Kitty and Mary as Mr. Collins desires to condole with Lady Catherine. Papa is willing to travel to London, but he insists on staying with Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. He arranged for you and Lydia to stay with him. Jane and I are trying to accommodate as many family members as possible. At this time, there is not a decent house or inn to rent for the duration of the shopping trip."
"So, Mary will stay with her particular friend, Miss de Bourgh," Mrs. Bennet sniffed. "I suppose I am to be impressed because Miss de Bourgh offered a room to Kitty?"
"Miss Anne is very kind and friendly; not the least bit a daughter of the first set." Kitty argued. "I admire her greatly. She never wore excessive jewelry or rich clothing like Lady Catherine wore that last Sunday. Her manners are lovely; not rude or cutting like Miss Bingley. Wednesday nights Mary hosted the Rosings guests for dinner. Saturdays, Rosings hosted riding parties and picnics. Sundays, Rosings hosted garden parties usually followed by dinner at Rosings."
"I suppose Mary's dinners for Rosings were extravagant," Mrs. Bennet pretended to be indifferent.
"Mary manages very well. She economizes better than anyone I know. Mr. Collins may not have funds like Bingley or Darcy, but Mary will never exceed their income. They will never be distressed for money. She will do quite well with her poultry and bees, like she did before at Longbourn. Her gardens and orchard were producing well when we left." Kitty slid a hard look at Lydia and then Mrs. Bennet.
"I suppose they often talk of having Longbourn when your father is dead. Mary already looks on it as her own; giving away rooms without consulting the current mistress of Longbourn." Mrs. Bennet sniped.
"Mary consulted the master of Longbourn, who gave his permission to bequeath her room to Kitty." Mr. Bennet inserted his comments for the first time during dinner. Lizzy could tell Papa felt vexed…he viciously cut his meat into small pieces and stabbed his roasted potatoes. "Kitty is the next oldest in the family. The room should be hers. Lydia does not automatically deserve every hand-me-down, advantage or spare pence at Longbourn. I will no longer brook descension over a room. Those who complain about room arrangements at Longbourn will find themselves living in staff rooms in the attics and cellar."
"They never discussed Longbourn while we were there, other than asking if everyone was in health." Lizzy remarked.
"Miss Anne hopes you will be at Longbourn for fifty more years, Papa. She is loath to give up Mary, especially since Mary healed Miss Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam." Kitty felt secretly happy because she locked her room when she left, and all her possessions were intact when she returned. However, she noted several scuff marks on the door. Mrs. Hill related Lydia kicked it in vexation every morning for a week after Kitty left.
"I'm sure they often talk of it between themselves. Well, if they place their future happiness on an estate that is not lawfully their own, I wish them disappointment. I should be ashamed of having an estate entailed on me." Mrs. Bennet flapped her handkerchief.
"Mrs. Bennet – I have an estate which was entailed upon me," Mr. Bennet commented dryly. "I was a second son and entitled to nothing. The legal entailment is how my grandfather, father and I inherited. Please consider those facts before you condemn Mr. Collins." Mr. Bennet ignored his wife while he sipped his wine.
"Aunt Gardiner can tell you also; Mary proved to be an excellent hostess. Our sleeping rooms were set with comfort in mind. Mary's dinners for Rosings' guests were well presented and highly praised by Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. While some of her family dinners might seem simple to you, we never lacked food, wine or hospitality." Lizzy knew Mama enjoyed entertaining, and not practicing economy and thrift.
"Well, I will not worry about the entail much longer. Surely your excellent husbands will purchase Longbourn or pay to break the entail, so I may stay here as mistress until I pass. Mary may live near her particular friend, for I have no need of her interference." Mrs. Bennet announced brightly.
"Since you feel that way, I will arrange Netherfield rooms for the Collinses for the wedding. They will enjoy staying at Netherfield since Miss Anne de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam and his family will be guests there. There is no need for Mary to act the servant since she is visiting." Jane prepared to leave the dining room at Longbourn. "Lizzy, let us have an early evening so we are fresh for viewing the flowers in the Netherfield hothouse tomorrow."
"I think I will join you for an early night. As Miss Anne would say…this conversation fatigues me." Kitty joined Jane and Lizzy bidding their parents goodnight and retiring to their rooms.
Mr. Bennet waited for them to leave the table. Before Mrs. Bennet could begin fabric, lace and ribbon conversations with Lydia, he spoke. "Mrs. Bennet, unless I see sterling character exhibited by you and your DEAR LYDIA, I will penalize pin money, deny you permission to entertain, and refuse to allow guests at Longbourn. I will shorten Dear Lydia's leading strings and reduce her finances to the level of a child still in the schoolroom."
Mrs. Bennet tittered flirtatiously, attempting to discompose Mr. Bennet.
"I am tired of you working on me to get your own way like a determined debutante. The entail is now a forbidden topic. I do not want to hear another word about the entail ever again. You married me knowing about Longbourn's entail. You were thrilled when Mary married Mr. Collins, because you felt your future had been secured. However, you have become petulant since I have not allowed you to overspend your housekeeping funds or fritter away Mary's portion. If you think to engage in such conversations out of my hearing; please know I intend to ask Jane, Lizzy and Kitty if your conversations leave a great deal to be desired." Mr. Bennet viewed Lydia and Mrs. Bennet in an unfriendly manner. "Do not importune the Phillips to champion you, nor the Gardiners. I will send expresses to my brothers of my edict."
Both realized their whining would only increase Mr. Bennet's adamant stance, not bend him to their will. Lydia planned to beg Lizzy to champion her trip to Brighton with Mrs. Forester. She felt she would have a larger society in Brighton compared to the society offered by her sisters' wedding.