Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 12
Sunday, May 24 – Gardiner Home
Lizzy sent word to the Gardner House. She and Jane would not attend church with the Gardiners. They had an extremely late night on Saturday. They would utilize the private chapel at Matlock House. When the betrothed couples arrived for dinner, the drawing room at the Gardiners' home had separated into factions. Kitty and Mary sat in one corner, Lydia and Mrs. Bennet in another, with Mrs. Gardiner midway between the two. Mr. Gardiner spirited Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy away to converse with the other men hiding in his study.
"Ladies," Jane acknowledged the ladies in the room. She and Lizzy sat next to Mrs. Gardiner.
"So," Mrs. Bennet commented, "you've come at last. I feel it is a sorry day when my daughters will not attend me when I am ill."
"I believe Lydia is one of your daughters." Mary commented.
"You know she is not as good in a sickroom as you!" Mrs. Bennet snapped.
"I'm sorry, Mother, but the days of my being a nursemaid to you ended when I married Mr. Collins and moved to Hunsford Parsonage." Mary addressed Lizzy and Jane. "Mother complains about a three-day headache. I believe Lydia didn't follow my directions and gave Mother too much medicinal sherry. The bottle is almost empty. One bottle of medicinal sherry provides a fortnight of cordials." Mary viewed lists of things to do this next week. "I'm sure Mother must have been dosed insensible."
"We're sorry Lydia could not read Mary's carefully written instructions, Mama," Lizzy apologized. "You know how busy our schedule is while we are in London."
"One of you should have attended Mama on Thursday," Lydia whined. "Kitty told us about the ride in Hyde Park, the ices at Gunter's, shopping on Bond Street, and theatre at Vauxhall. I haven't been out of the house since dinner at Miss Anne's on Wednesday!"
"You had the opportunity to walk to the park with your young cousins on Friday and Saturday. I sent them out of the house because your Mama complained about the noise." Mrs. Gardiner's quiet voice carried to all corners of the drawing room.
"Well, we're here now," Lizzy smoothed the skirt on her dress. "Should I call the men in for conversation before dinner?"
"Oh la!" Lydia responded. "They've gone to Uncle Gardiner's study to drink brandy and play chess until dinner."
Kitty greeted Lizzy and Jane. "Miss Anne sends her greetings. She will attend Evensong at St. George's with the Fitzwilliams and Miss Darcy."
"That's a pretty pink dress," Mrs. Bennet interrupted Lizzy's reply to address Kitty. "Is it new?"
"I had it made while I visited Mary in March," Kitty would not admit the Gardiners gave her the material for her birthday. "I haven't had a reason to wear it at Longbourn."
"You need to teach Mary how to dress. She's very dull today. My gown was quite admired at church this morning." Lydia wore a white muslin with red embroidery, which had a deeper décolletage than should be seen at church. Mrs. Bennet taught her how to adjust the bodice of her gowns to exhibit herself more…and Lydia used that trick when she shouldn't.
Mary did not think admired could be the correct word. She caught looks from Jane and Lizzy which let her know they didn't think admired was the correct word either.
"I like Mary's sprigged muslin," Lizzy said. "Cream background, thin brown stripes, and gold flowers with green leaves – it's very becoming with Mary's hair, and her gold ribbons and hair combs."
"I purchased the material for my gown and long wrap from Gardiner's Emporium. Mrs. Gardiner's modiste has been quite wonderful about finding materials and fashion plates to suit me during this shopping trip." Mary did not explain the fuller cut to hide her increase.
"My new lace fichu is from my modiste. She has several fashion plates you enjoyed. We will have a new bolt of marone cotton by the fall. I think it is a color you would like Lydia." Mrs. Gardiner pointed out.
Lydia's sisters understood Aunt Gardiner soft rebuke about Lydia needing a lace fichu to cover her excessively exposed décolletage. However, neither Lydia nor Mrs. Bennet did.
"We have fitting appointments at your modistes tomorrow and Tuesday, Aunt," Jane noted. "We have fittings at Miss Darcy's modiste for our wedding gowns Wednesday morning. Thursday and Friday, Lizzy and I will finish shopping for the many little items a lady needs after she marries."
"It is so warm inside carriages while traveling. I recommend bonnets with a fabric crown. I think they are cooler to wear. I don't pack morning gowns, because we are usually up early and traveling. You need a plain reticule, with a folding fan, and handkerchief for travel. You need a parasol to protect you from the sun when you stretch your legs while the horses are being changed or rested. Wear walking boots during travel and for viewing the sites." Mrs. Gardiner advised.
"My other secret for traveling in the heat is a bottle of Mary's floral water. When I arrive at an inn, I ask for a basin of cool water. I pour a cup of the scented water in the basin of cool water to refresh me. Take a candle with you to reseal the bottle so it does not leak while you travel. Additionally we travel with a trunk of bed linens, candles and soap. We travel with a trunk which holds a travel writing slope, travel medicinal chest and travel tantalizer, my work box, an art box, and books. The travel slope holds paper, quills, sealing wax and ink. Reseal the ink bottle with the candle also. The medicine chest carries the usual medicines so we don't rely on an unknown apothecary. Mr. Gardiner likes to take his own travel tantalizer and a few bottles of good wine. We carry our own picnic basket and pay for the contents if we tour local sites."
"Oh la!" Mrs. Bennet scoffed. "Let your servants worry about packing travel necessities. You will want more and better clothes and accessories for your wedding tour. You need several day dresses for the Lake District and at least two or more silk gowns. Really…you must reconsider your packing. You brought more than four day dresses and one silk dress to London!" Mrs. Bennet flapped her handkerchief.
Lizzy and Jane considered their lists of items needed for the wedding tour.
~X~
Dinner conversation seemed subdued. Mrs. Gardiner did not serve a single receipt created by Mary, since Mrs. Bennet did not appreciate Miss Anne's dinner on Wednesday. Mrs. Gardiner kept the meal simple with a soup, a fish dish, two meats, six garden stuff, hot rolls and two sweets. Libations were iced clarets. "Mr. Gardiner has business meetings tomorrow morning. We won't tarry too late this evening." Mrs. Gardiner intended to have an early evening. She would not play cards with Lydia, who only played for money, or Franny, who complained ceaselessly during the games.
"Do you think we will have dancing on Wednesday evening? I've been hoping to dance with Colonel Fitzwilliam since we arrived in London, but I have yet to be invited to a dance." Lydia rebuked Lizzy.
"We haven't attended a dance either," Darcy acknowledged. "I hoped to have an opportunity to practice a waltz with Elizabeth before the birthday ball. Aunt Constance, Cousin Augusta and Georgiana have been busy planning the birthday ball. As Georgiana is not out in society yet, this will be the first ball she will be allowed to attend."
"When will Miss Georgiana be allowed in society?" Mrs. Bennet preened like a mother peacock. "Lydia's been out in society since her fifth and tenth birthday. She turns six and ten just before your wedding."
"Because of our first-circle connections, we follow the ton rules. Young ladies do not come out until after one's seven and tenth birthday and presentation to the queen. Georgiana turns seven and ten this September. The Fitzwilliams anticipate presenting both Georgiana and Cousin Anne to the court next Season. They will order their court presentation gowns, and practice their curtseys starting in January. In our social circles, a young lady must conduct herself credibly, without temper tantrums, loud voices, or the need to have adults check her behavior. If a mother is unable to educate her daughter; a suitable governess, companion or seminary finishes the young woman for society." Darcy's rebuke missed its mark.
"What of accomplishments?" Mrs. Gardiner asked.
"A debutante must be accomplished. Simply being a good dancer is not enough." He hid a smile when Mrs. Bennet seemed exceptionally interested in the topic. "Indeed, a debutante must have a thorough knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing and all the modern languages."
"And something about her air and the manner of walking…" Lizzy quipped and Darcy burst into laughter. Everyone at the table stared at them. "Just repeating a discussion we had one night at Netherfield Park."
"Miss Darcy won't come out during Little Season?" Mrs. Gardiner asked deliberately to remove any suggestions from Mrs. Bennet."
"No, Georgiana requested additional time to complete her studies. She desires to spend autumn at Pemberley." Mr. Darcy understood the rationale for the question. "The plan is to bring her back to London before Twelfth Night so she can prepare for her Season."
"Lizzy, will you be presented to the Queen, also?" Lydia appeared too interested in the conversation.
"I do not know. Our plans are not firm. I am fortunate to marry someone who is as dismissive of London as Papa." Lizzy's theatrical shrug emphasized her words. "Instead of leading the ton… Darcy is more interested in leaving the ton." She quoted Augusta.
"I'm grateful because I won't be required to squire my sisters to Season events." Bingley joined the conversation. "I don't know if we will attend much of Little Season. There is a great deal to do at Netherfield Park to harvest and prepare for winter. I imagine autumn at Netherfield will be quite pleasant. The riding and shooting were excellent last fall."
"Are you looking forward to the autumn assemblies?" Jane asked Kitty. "Bingley guaranteed Sir William we will support the autumn events at the Meryton Assembly Hall. Charlotte and I agreed to assume Mary's duties during assemblies. We will ensure the wine punch is iced, soft cider is served, and attend the biscuit plates. Mary gave us excellent directions."
"You won't dance at the assemblies?" Mrs. Bennet frowned.
"Of course we will dance," Bingley asserted. "Jane and I will dance first set, supper set and closing set. I will have two new sisters who require a dance partner. Additionally I promised Sir William I would dance with the ladies who must sit out dances for lack of partners."
"You are so lucky Jane!" Lydia exclaimed. "You will have a handsome husband who dances! And you will have a new silk gown for every dance!"
"I don't think silk will be appropriate for autumn dances." Mrs. Gardiner advised Jane. "I should think a linen gown will keep you warmer than a silk gown, and cooler than a velvet one."
"I don't like the way linen wrinkles so easily," Jane set her cutlery down and placed her hands in her lap. She felt it would be inappropriate to have at someone with a dinner knife. "Mayhap, I will look for velvet for a fall and winter evening gown after the wedding. I have too much to do now to anticipate future amusements."
Mr. Bennet groaned. "Might we please discuss something other than fabrics and laces, or balls and assemblies?"
"Parker's Periodicals received a new shipment on Saturday." Mr. Gardiner informed his brother Bennet. "I planned to visit them tomorrow. You are quite welcome to join me. Any of you men are welcome to join us."
"I will be available," Darcy opined. "Perhaps we can attend the sale at Tattersall's in the morning. We can partake of a midday meal at my club, followed by a visit to Parker's Periodicals."
"I would like join you gentlemen tomorrow," Collins offered. "I had planned to condole with Lady Catherine but her doctor visits tomorrow. The nursing staff says she is exhausted after her examinations."
"Could we discuss something other than the gentlemen's plans for tomorrow?" Mrs. Bennet's acerbic tongue ceased all conversation.
"I don't intend to discuss events we won't attend. The ton will depart London in mass after June first. There are no tickets available for public balls or card parties," Mrs. Gardiner sipped her wine. "Ladies, we can discuss shopping, fabrics and laces to our heart's content when we separate. The gentlemen can discuss their plans for tomorrow."
"How is everyone's crops and gardens faring in this wet?" Mary asked.
"Men's conversation," Lydia snapped.
"Fine," Mary dropped the topic. "Miss Anne paid for the Hunsford Assembly Hall to receive a new roof and repairs. Although none of us attended the spring assembly, I understand there will be one for Midsummer's Eve and one for Michaelmas. We might attend the one for Michaelmas. Is the Meryton Assembly Hall in good order?"
"Sir William spoke with the men in town. We gathered donations for the upkeep of the Assembly Hall. The interior will be repainted. Funds were raised to purchase the coals and candles needed for the year. I felt intrigued by Hunsford's assembly every quarter and approached the gentlemen with the plan." Mr. Bennet joined the conversation.
Mrs. Bennet and Lydia's forks froze in midair. 'Once a quarter assemblies? Not once a month?' Lydia wanted to shake some sense into Papa.
"Seems your influence will still be felt at Meryton's assemblies," Mrs. Bennet sniped at Mary.
"Perhaps…but I recommend Jane and Charlotte have conversational topics to share with the attendees instead of sitting in a corner, overhearing on dits." Lizzy interjected.
"Thank you for the suggestion, Lizzy!" Jane appreciated the suggestion. "I know I won't be hosting post assembly tea and gossip for the four and twenty families we know. I plan to emulate Mary and not repeat gossip. I believe there are other topics of conversation."
"Nonsense! It is tradition for the ladies to meet and discuss the assembly, clothes, news…" Mrs. Bennet snapped.
"Your tradition…in your drawing room…" Mr. Bennet commented. "It sounds like three of our sensible daughters don't care to repeat that tradition in their homes."
"Bluestockings," Lydia muttered.
Kitty caught a disapproving look from Mrs. Gardiner; so she did not retort. 'If you can't say it, don't think it.' Kitty counseled herself.
Everyone diverted their attention to the sweet course, and conversation faltered in lieu of compliments for the sweets. Mrs. Gardiner's cook created gooseberry and strawberry tarts, cherry pudding with almond biscuits, and ginger-pear compote over nut pound cake. Mrs. Gardiner offered to send receipts to anyone who asked.
Monday, May 24
Mrs. Bennet held her tongue until Jane and Lizzy were carriage bound with her toward the modiste for fittings. Mrs. Bennet rang a peal over Jane and Lizzy for viewing the Bingley House and the Darcy House on Saturday without their Mama. Although, she allowed, Mr. Bennet forbade her arranging visits to furniture and furnishings warehouses. He forbade her to tour equipage warehouses. However, Mr. Bennet did not forbid her to discuss home décor or equipages with her daughters. "Which is another reason the weddings should be delayed," Mrs. Bennet announced. "Both my girls deserve time to change the décor at their future homes to reflect the arrival of a new mistress."
"Mama, the best I can do between now and the wedding is arrange the master and mistress suite at Netherfield Park and to ensure Netherfield Park is scrubbed up and polished down. We must be prepared for a full house for the birthday ball and the wedding breakfast. After the wedding and wedding tour, Mr. Bingley and I will discuss changes before harvesting begins. We are hesitant to spend funds on a leased property." Jane shook her head at Lizzy, warning her to not engage Mama in this conversation.
"Oh la!" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed. "Men do not care about draperies and rugs much less how a chair faces the door."
Lizzy stifled a laugh. Mr. Bennet refused to let Mrs. Bennet make any changes to his library or to his sleeping quarters. "I'm quite comfortable with the rooms, furniture and decor at the Darcy House. I enjoy Lady Anne's sense of style and taste. I feel quite comfortable at the Darcy House. I am grateful I won't expend time redecorating the Darcy House before the wedding. Sometime this summer, Mrs. Behrens is sending two of the library chairs out to be reupholstered. Miss Anne is spending a few days sketching the layouts and amenities of some of the rooms. She plans to refurbish the de Bourgh House and Rosings Park when she has time." Since the mention of the excessive fireplaces at de Bourgh House enamored Mama, Lizzy resolved not ask Mama for decorating opinions in the future.
"Since I was not included in your house tour, and have no idea WHO Mrs. Behrens is…all I can say is it is sad Miss Anne is unhappy with the de Bourgh House. I suppose…since her gowns are so simple…her future décor will be simple also." Mrs. Bennet sniffed.
"When you visit the Darcy House, you will be introduced to the housekeeper, Mrs. Behrens, and the butler, Mr. Behrens." Lizzy sighed with relief when the carriage drew up before Mrs. Gardiner's modiste.
"Lizzy…preserve calm…" Jane whispered. "You don't want to snap at a modiste who sticks you with a pin."
Three hours of shopping tested Lizzy's and Jane's will power. Mrs. Bennet harangued them to open either the Darcy House or Bingley House the first of October. She felt they needed all of October to shop for winter clothing and appropriate clothes for Little Season. She announced she began a list of winter wardrobes to purchase – such as muffs and tippets, fur-lined or fur-trimmed cloaks, bonnets and gloves for fall and winter. She opined only the finest winter weight fabrics would do.
Mrs. Gardiner explained Jane and Lizzy needed to buy clothing for the wedding tour and remainder of summer. There would be plenty of time for purchasing for fall and winter after they returned from the wedding tour. She declared Franny needed the time to create her winter list. The girls would be busy with harvesting at the estates until the first of November. Kitty slipped her sisters a list of the travel clothes Anne ordered for them. Jane and Lizzy were quite grateful for Anne's help. They were determined to send chocolates to thank her.
~X~
Two footmen stood ready to circulate cold meats and cheeses, garden stuff salads, and fresh fruits to the ladies. Petite chocolate tarts, raspberry tarts, and cherry jam cakes sweetened the conversation. Mrs. Gardiner discreetly winked at Lizzy. She provided plenty of good green tea or lemonade. Neither Mrs. Bennet nor Lydia deserved would get silly on wine and create problems for Jane and Lizzy this afternoon.
After the midday repast at the Gardiners, Mrs. Bennet did not want to visit the Collinses warehouses. She and Lydia chose to view the fabric and lace warehouses which were not on Lizzy and Jane's list of warehouses to patronize. They would take the Gardiner carriage with Mrs. Gardiner. Jane and Lizzy would take the Bingley carriage to the Collinses warehouses. Kitty and Mary had fitting appointments at Miss Anne's modiste. They would travel in a de Bourgh carriage.
Jane and Lizzy purchased travel trunks, dressing cases and travel valises from the Collinses warehouses. Lizzy suggested they spend time tonight filling the trunks with packages. Lizzy claimed they needed to ensure their deliveries and pack for their return to Longbourn. The sisters met Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley at Gunter's Ices and toured Hatchard's Books. They returned to the Matlock House for a rest and to dress for dinner. Bingley and Darcy would accompany them to dinner tonight at the Gardiner House.
Tuesday, May 25
"How do you feel about a tour of Covent Gardens?" Anne asked Mary. "I understand there is a garden market there today featuring garden stuff, fruits, and flowers."
"I think it sounds lovely, and an excellent reason to avoid Mother. She will not care about garden stuff when there are bits of lace in town which she has not seen." Mary sighed and cast her eyes to heaven. Anne and Mary enjoyed the sunshine and fresh air on their walk. Mary enjoyed seeing the volume of fresh vegetables and planned to seek seeds for some of them.
Anne visited the rug importer. She really liked half a dozen rugs displayed in his warehouse. The shopkeeper gave her a catalogue with the dimensions and descriptions of various rugs. She would start a new everyday book with the size of rooms at the Dower House. She would ask Mrs. Shepherd for a list of the rooms and their dimensions for the de Bourgh House. Anne took a copy of the catalogue and information for a furniture maker. She explained she was redecorating a 40-room, four-story, country manor house.
Mary purchased a Latin language primer at the bookstore. Anne purchased more blank everyday books. Mary insisted on taking a minute in the toy shop. She claimed to need new playing cards for the parsonage. Anne noted Mary ignored the bilbocatch, tops, marbles, and spillkins toys, but viewed a Noah's Ark toy and a very well-made rocking horse. She caressed the bonnet of a fashionable dolly. Anne knew Mary purchased materials for a layette and commissioned gowns to hide her increase. Anne would confirm Richard's suspicions when they had a moment to talk.
~X~
The Gardiners arranged dinner and a card party with the Fitzwilliams at the Matlock House. The elegant spring dinner of thirty dishes and three courses prepared by a French chef did little to quell the endless stream of wedding questions and comments from Franny Bennet. Constance Fitzwilliam struggled to veer the conversation to less volatile topics but met with little success.
"Georgiana, I will open an account for you at Hatchard's Books if you start yawning when you move to the card table with Mrs. Bennet," Darcy whispered to his sister. She winked and practiced a few small yawns before everyone moved to the next table.
At Georgiana's first yawn, Lady Matlock called for carriages. "I'm sorry," Georgiana apologized. "We had a busy day."
At the first sound of protest from Mrs. Bennet, Jane reminded everyone she and Lizzy had final fittings at the Fitzwilliams' modiste tomorrow. The two couples hovered in the hallway to bid everyone goodnight before dashing up to their rooms. Colonel Fitzwilliam handed Miss Anne, Mrs. Collins and Kitty into the de Bourgh coach, bid goodnight to Mr. Collins and then disappeared into the upper levels of Matlock House. Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Bennet handed Mrs. Gardiner, Mrs. Bennet and Lydia into the Gardiners' carriage and bid goodnight to the Matlocks.
~X~
Jane fretted when Lizzy burst into tears as they entered their sitting room. "Lizzy, do you need a headache powder?"
"I need a rest," Lizzy wept. "I am tired of searching for the perfect materials and trims, searching for the best styles and the newest fashion plates, attending fittings for gowns, or shopping for the best accessories. I'm tired of the constant additions to the must have shopping list. I'm tired of being polite to inquisitive ton mamas and disappointed daughters. I wish Darcy and I had eloped to Gretna Green."
"Soon, dearest…soon we will return to Longbourn. I find I am weary of incessantly discussing gowns, food, invitations, and flowers. I barely get an acknowledgement from Charles on the evenings we are with the Gardiners before Mama claims his company to discuss wedding plans. I wish Charles were as reticent as Darcy…or could scowl like Darcy. Then, I might get a free moment with him." Jane felt eager to be away from Mama's plans and schemes. "I know I should not complain of Mama's improper behavior one moment, and then engage in it the next moment." Jane hugged her dearest sister.
Lizzy dried her half-frustration tears and her half-laughter tears. "I know myself well enough that if I don't laugh, I will cry until I am sick with a headache." After Jane threatened to send for Mama's medicinal sherry, Lizzy burst into laughter.
"I know Mama means well, but she expresses her thoughts and opinions badly. I blamed the five of us needing husbands because Meryton lacks eligible men. I know she is afraid of the future, but Mary married Mr. Collins, so Longbourn is secure. Papa attempts to improve Longbourn and the living. We're about to marry the men we love. I just don't understand why Mama frets so." Jane sighed.
"I know it is wrong of me…but I'm glad Pemberley is four days away from Longbourn and not three miles." Lizzy counted the days until she left the excessive silliness of Mama and Lydia.
"I am grateful we have Aunt Gardiner's input," Jane opined. "Mama can talk for hours about the wedding."
"Indeed," Lizzy agreed. "I'm grateful we have Aunt Gardiner, Lady Matlock and Lady Fitzwilliam to help curb her excitement. I'm grateful Mama discusses the decorations, music, seating, and wedding breakfast with them. I need the respite to breathe and determine what I want for my trousseau. Although I allow it is a waste of time arguing with Mama and Lydia while shopping."
"Lizzy," Jane almost scolded. "You cannot order Mama not to discuss fabrics, laces and trims with us. That is Papa's favorite edict."
Wednesday, May 26
Anne invited everyone for breakfast at nine in hopes of starting and ending the day faster. The morning included fittings for both sexes. Anne smiled ever so slightly at Mary. She arranged for a lovely breakfast buffet featuring green tea, Brioche and several fresh jams, a fruit salad of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, small roasted potatoes, sliced tomatoes, freshly smoked pork chops, and thick-cut bacon. The cook made Mary's Spinach, Mushroom and Cheese Tart. Anne's new footmen stood at the ready. Mrs. Bennet's eyes observed the de Bourgh House and servants…storing all observations away to relate to her dearest friends in Meryton.
"Mrs. Bennet, the wedding gowns are not plain. Miss Jane does not need an overabundance of embellishments which would diminish her natural beauty. Miss Elizabeth's petite frame would be lost in layers of lace, flounces and ribbons. The wedding is about the young Miss Bennets…not the gowns. These gowns are excessively fine for a small, private wedding. Ladies, it is time for the last fitting for your gowns." Mme. Charette endured Mrs. Bennet long enough. She nodded at her two French seamstresses to help the Miss Bennets into their wedding finery.
"I could not have expressed those sentiments better myself," Lady Matlock nodded approvingly. "Quality materials should reign over laces and trims. Flounces would make Elizabeth appear half as tall as she is."
The white silk gown for Jane had a pleated, V-neck silk and lace bodice. The white silk gown for Elizabeth had a silk and lace square décolletage bodice. The bodices were modest, befitting a church ceremony. A wide white silk ribbon, embellished with white silk lace, created a sash at the empire waist of both gowns. A narrower white silk and lace ribbon banded the sleeves.
The wedding gowns were a perfect fit. Mme. Charette asked the Bennet ladies if they wanted to see the overgowns which were finished also. Her helpers brought out four overgowns. Jane's were lavender and pale blue. Lizzy's were pale primrose and soft green. They removed the white sashes and slipped an overgown on each of the girls; tying them in back where the bodice joined the skirt. The overgowns allowed Jane and Lizzy to wear their wedding dresses as evening gowns. The overgowns were gauze with ribbons and lace with matching gauze and lace wraps, which made Mrs. Bennet excessively happy. She understood the simple gowns because the overskirts were embellished.
Mme. Charette questioned the brides about their bonnets and shoes. The white silk tulle attached to their bonnets used the same wide white silk ribbon and lace as on the gowns. She recommended all white bouquets with greenery, silk ribbons and silk lace. Their blue satin brocade cloaks were a perfect fit also. Neither Jane nor Elizabeth wanted a prolonged discussion of every detail of the wedding ensembles. Mme. Charette asked about the delivery. Mrs. Bennet suggested delivering wedding clothes to the Gardiner House, so the grooms did not have a chance to see the gowns in advance.
Jane and Lizzy tried on their ballgowns and found them to be perfect fit also. Mrs. Bennet, vexed by the lack of excessive lace and flounces, urged the girls to leave the gowns to be improved.
"I will not have rouleaux sleeves which are a waste of materials." Lizzy adamantly announced to Mrs. Bennet's weary sigh and head shake.
Since Mrs. Bennet was so determined, Lizzy and Jane requested their purchases be delivered to the Matlock House. Jane didn't like the greedy look Lydia cast at her ballgown, and Lizzy did not like Mama's frown at the lack of lace and flounces.
~X~
Miss Anne planned an afternoon tour of a museum since Mrs. Bennet complained about a lack of entertainment. Mrs. Bennet did not think much of the tour conducted by Mrs. Radley, Miss Anne's previous art master. While Mrs. Radley patiently imparted information to their group about important landscapes, Mrs. Bennet and Lydia lingered overly long at the portraits, discussing fashions and jewels. Eventually their group encountered another group. Mrs. Radley introduced her ladies to the other art master leading a group. She, in turn, introduced her ladies to Anne's group.
Constance Fitzwilliam noticed several surprised looks passing through the new group. "Ladies, you seem surprised to see our group. You especially seem surprised to see my nieces, Miss de Bourgh and Miss Darcy." Introductions through Mrs. Annesley and Mrs. Radley were quickly completed.
"I'm sorry," one of the young ladies stepped forward and curtseyed. "Miss Beth Bolt, granddaughter of Clarence Bolt, the Fifth Earl of Harcourt. Miss Darcy, might I be permitted to call on you this afternoon?"
"We are spending the day with Miss de Bourgh," Lady Matlock explained.
"I would be very pleased to have you visit us at the de Bourgh House at four for tea," Anne stepped forward and extended her card. "Mother will not be able to join us, but I'm sure we will have a pleasant visit." If it turned unpleasant, she had ex-military footmen to remove unwanted guests.
Everyone curtseyed and moved off. "Am I the only one who believes our introduction was odd?" Georgiana whispered to Aunt Constance.
"Indeed. Do you have suggestions to keep Mrs. Bennet and Miss Lydia busy during Miss Bolt's visit?" Constance whispered back, noting Mrs. Bennet and Lydia moved off to view more portraits.
"I think Mrs. Bennet, and Miss Lydia would love a guided tour of the de Bourgh House. After our museum trip; have Mrs. Shepherd give Mrs. Bennet and Lydia a tour. Extensive tours of the conservatory and gardens should start the tour, so Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are busy when Anne's other guests arrive. Refuse to show the third floor suites because of Lady Catherine's presence in the house. Only show an unused second floor room. Do not allow them in any occupied room on the second floor. Should they ask…no they cannot see Mary's or Kitty's room. Since everyone has seen the drawing room and dining room already; make those two rooms the last of the tour. By then, Miss Bolt and her companion should have left." Georgiana suggested.
"Anne will be quite pleased by your quick thinking and your plan," Constance thanked her niece.
~X~
Tea featured pretty silver trays of French pastries created by Anne's French chef. "Thank you for seeing me. This is my companion, Mrs. Harriet Harding. I'm sure I appeared quite flustered when we met this morning," Miss Bolt began. "Before Christmas, Miss Bingley related her brother, Mr. Charles Bingley, would be advantageously wed to you, Miss Darcy. She expected the proposal to be made when they traveled to Pemberley to join you and Mr. Darcy for Christmas. She anticipated their engagement ball and wedding would be the highlight of this Season's events. Everyone has heard for Seasons how Miss Bingley planned to marry Mr. Darcy. We returned to London last week, but have not had callers nor attended amusements. My grandfather has been disposed, and we remained at the Bolt House to provide care. He is improved, so we went to the museum today, just to get some fresh air."
"So you haven't heard about the engagement of Mr. Darcy to Miss Elizabeth Bennet and the engagement of Mr. Bingley to Miss Jane Bennet." Lady Fitzwilliam slowly sipped her tea.
"No, I have not," Miss Bolt replied.
Lady Matlock observed the frown on Georgiana's face. "I'm sorry Miss Bingley's letter to you was filled with…prevarications. The families are pleased it is a love match between Miss Bennet and Mr. Bingley, and Miss Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Miss Darcy accompanied me to Bath from January until the end of April. We are staying at the Matlock House until a week before the wedding when we will travel to Hertfordshire."
"My sister and I are accompanying each other on our wedding tour with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. My newest sister and her companion offered to prepare Pemberley for a house party in August." Lizzy explained.
"How did you meet Miss Bingley?" Lady Matlock could not quell her curiosity.
"I can answer your question. Previously, Mrs. Annesley worked as the companion to Miss Deborah Fletcher, the orphaned niece of Admiral Alfred Fletcher, of His Majesty's Navy. Admiral Fletcher received guardianship of Miss Fletcher when she turned three and ten. Mrs. Annesley acted as her companion until Miss Fletcher married Dr. William Branson, of Leeds. Admiral Fletcher and Lord Harcourt are childhood friends. I met Mrs. Annesley through their connection. Miss Bolt's older sister and Miss Fletcher shared their first Season with one another."
Mrs. Harding continued the explanation. "I knew Mrs. Annesley, so when I met her walking with Miss Darcy in Hyde Park, I introduced them to Miss Bolt. We met them several times at museums, modistes, shopping, etc. which is how Miss Bingley met Miss Bolt. I thought she is a particular friend of Miss Darcy's, like her brother is a particular friend of Mr. Darcy's. I did not hesitate to encourage the acquaintance."
"I believe you should share this information with Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley," Miss Bolt gave Lady Matlock the letter from Caroline Bingley and urged her to read it.
Constance handed the letter to Georgiana after she read it. "Miss Bolt, I've been in situations like this before. Miss Bingley attempts to use you for better invitations to events of the Season. I know how difficult it is to cut someone who you feel is a friend. However, someone who would lie to you to advance her social standing is no friend."
"Mr. Shepherd warns the house tour is coming to an end," Anne caught sight of him hovering outside the library.
"We will not keep you from your company. Miss de Bourgh, if you have the opportunity, please attend the Midsummer Ball, at the Upper Rooms in Bath. Otherwise, I shall be pleased to see you when you and Miss Darcy come out next Season. My grandparents are hosting a ball for me a week after my presentation at court. I should like to add both of you to the invitation list." Miss Bolt extended her calling card to Anne and Georgiana, receiving cards in return before Miss Bolt and her companion curtsied and bid the ladies goodbye.
'Mother never brought me to London for a Season. She didn't think I needed one because I would marry William. I've heard it cost at least £500 for a Season for clothes, living arrangements and hosting events. Mother obviously didn't consider I was worth the money or effort.' Such thoughts made Anne sad. She rang for more tea and refreshments. While the ladies enjoyed tea, Anne endured Mrs. Bennet's effusions and questions about viewing the Darcy House, and planning to change the decor of the de Bourgh House. Anne sighed with relief when the topic finally changed…except Mrs. Bennet heard Miss Bolt's comments about Anne and Georgiana coming out next Season.
"I'm sorry," Anne addressed Mrs. Bennet's questions. "We have not discussed the Season with Lady Matlock. We know we will be in London in January, before the Earl of Matlock is busy with the House of Lords. Lady Fitzwilliam explained it takes months to prepare for the Season. The modiste requires months to create our wardrobes for the Season, especially our presentation gowns, and the gown Lady Matlock wears when she accompanies us on the day. Our presentation gowns will be of the finest white silk and satin. Our embroidery or ribbons will be the colors of the Fitzwilliam family crest: blue, red, gold, and white. Colonel Fitzwilliam recommends I hire a displaced French woman. who is talented with her needle, as a private seamstress. She will stay here in London, to acquire the latest fashion plates and the best materials. I will provide her with proper funds, so she may acquire the best accessories also."
"While it is not acceptable to discuss money, you should know coming out Season is costly," Lady Fitzwilliam remarked. "We have a house in London. However, Papa purchased a chaise and matching four to squire me to events, shopping, and the calls! He hired an extra coachman and two footmen for my convenience. He hired a French chef to create a special menu for my coming out ball. My French maid required an under maid and a laundry maid. I had masters to polish my accomplishments. When the Season ended, Mama and I were so exhausted, we fled to Bath from Midsummer to Michaelmas. We needed to regain our energies before Little Season began."
"Then Robert proposed before Christmas, and we spent the time between Little Season and Season preparing for the wedding." Lady Matlock smiled indulgently at Lady Fitzwilliam. "We hired the ballroom at Almack's as neither the Elburn House or the Matlock House ballroom fit the 400 guests who attended Viscount and Lady Fitzwilliam's wedding ball."
Anne hid a smile, as Mrs. Bennet seemed to be discomforted by their response. Anne felt Elizabeth had not heard the last of this topic from Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth would be importuned to chaperone Lydia while paying for clothing, jewels, carriages and servants which Mrs. Bennet felt were Lydia's due.
"Mary, will you play some dance music after dinner tonight?" Mrs. Bennet decided to change the topic. "Lydia loves to dance, recently however, she has not had excellent partners like Colonel Fitzwilliam or Mr. Bingley."
"I am sorry to disappoint, Mama," Mary replied smoothly. "Miss de Bourgh, as tonight's hostess, will arrange the amusements. I understand Miss de Bourgh's music master and her French master will entertain us this evening. We will hear music from several French composers and will hear several fine French arias. I don't believe we're dancing until the birthday ball."
The butler entered the drawing room. "Mademoiselle Bissette, Blanchard and Boudon are here for their interviews. I have them waiting in your study, Miss Anne." Mr. Shepherd announced.
"Please take tea and refreshments to them. Have Mrs. Shepherd gather their references. I will join them shortly." Anne directed him. "I'm seeking a French maid," she announced to the room. "I understand they are uncommonly talented at hairdressing and fashion. A French maid will help me hire a French seamstress. Additionally, speaking with a French maid will test my French lessons."
"Jane, Elizabeth, we should depart and give Miss Anne time to interview a French maid. We can discuss the wedding before you must return to Matlock House and dress for dinner." Mrs. Bennet ordered.
"Miss Anne suggested we send gowns to wear tonight," Lizzy selected another pastry from the tea tray. "We will rest here after tea, and then dress for dinner. Miss Anne's three French maids are to help us dress and fix our hair. Miss Anne wants to view their abilities."
"Will you help in the kitchen for tonight's dinner?" Mrs. Bennet archly asked Mary. "For it seems Miss Anne and her family enjoy your simple receipts."
"Oh no," Mary modestly replied. "I have no need to demonstrate the domestic skills I learned at Longbourn. Miss Anne's French chef will prepare dinner tonight. He accepted an offer of employment from the Earl and Countess of Matlock. We have him to thank for the lovely French pastries and confections we enjoyed this afternoon."
Anne noticed the dismay crossing Mrs. Bennet's face and decided to impress again. "The chef will create five and twenty dishes for dinner this evening. He is cooking Colonel Fitzwilliam's favorite seafood bisque, chilled shrimp and oysters with lemon, and lobster mayonnaise with tarragon for first course. We can expect Baron of Beef, Loin of Veal, Coq au Vin – which is chicken in wine, and Braised Lamb with Beans. The chef is a wizard with garden stuff. Colonel Fitzwilliam requested asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce and Gratin Dauphnois, which are French potatoes. The chef recommended French wines to serve at dinner. The sweet course will include Chocolate Gateau, Vanilla Chantilly Crème, and French Madeleines, Macarons and Meringues."
"We will see you for dinner at eight, then." Mrs. Gardiner stood and quietly bade Miss Anne and her guests goodbye. She waited for Mrs. Bennet and Lydia to join her to depart. She would ask Mary for another bottle of medicinal sherry for her own nerves. Franny claimed she and Lydia received ill-treatment and slights from the Fitzwilliam-Darcy-de Bourgh families. Madeleine Gardiner realized Franny Bennet was a shallow, social climber who did not rejoice in Jane and Lizzy's marriages for their happiness. She intended to use their marriages to advance her social standing, her financial standing and push Lydia into greater society. While Madeleine did not wish harm to her Brother Bennet; Longbourn would be a better place when Mary become its mistress.
~X~
A lady's maid is usually addressed by her last name. Because of the current war, the three women requested they be called by their first names. Anne explained she and two future female cousins each needed a lady's maid. She explained there would be travel in their future because of the impending wedding. She explained the living situations for the three ladies – traveling between Kent and London, Hertfordshire and London, and Derbyshire and London.
Anne read and reread the list of women who had been shunned by the three French maids. If she was particular friends with any of them, the maids would withdraw their query about a position. "Miss Caroline Bingley?" Anne asked the three maids. "I know of her; she is not an acquaintance or friend. I know of her because my cousin is engaged to Elizabeth whose sister Jane is engaged to Charles Bingley. I am not anticipating an introduction. That woman is a…"
"Musaraigne malheureuse," Aveline Bissette finished the sentence in French.
"Unhappy…" Anne tried to translate.
"Your Shakespeare word…harpy?" Aveline felt she was using the wrong word.
"Shrew," Anne laughed. "Yes, Miss Bingley is that. So how did you ladies escape employment with her?"
"We met her at a servants' bazaar before Michaelmas last year," Aveline explained. "She frowned at all the servants who sought positions. No one wanted to approach her or have her approach them. Her clothes are expensive, but she did not want to pay appropriate coin for qualified help. She spends her money on clothes…couleurs moche…" Aveline frowned. "The fabrics may be excellent, and the laces and trims the best money can buy, but…"
"Ugly colors…" Anne finally translated with a delighted laugh. "Very well, please be as honest with me as possible. I will ask you to help dress my four guests, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Catherine and Mrs. Mary."
"Your dresses in cottons, linens and muslins are excellent for the country. But you should have a ton wardrobe. You can still wear classic silhouettes, but with richer fabrics. There is no need to overwhelm yourself with laces and flounces; you are not…déguiser flaws."
"Hiding, disguising flaws?" Anne asked, and Aveline nodded.
"It is important your ton clothes display you to your best advantage. You are petite, which is not the current fashion. You should not wear very tall shoes. Long elegant lines in your clothes will make you appear taller. Hairstyles or bonnets can create an illusion of height. Ostrich plumes in your hair can do that also. Your blonde hair is a lovely color, and curls are easier to arrange than straight hair. Your skin is flawless…traditional English rose. I would give up my living for your eyelashes," Aveline admired Anne's facial features. "While many of the ton wear the most elaborate gems; you would be overwhelmed by a parure. Simple gems which enhance your beauty are the best."
"Like sapphires which bring out my eyes?" Anne asked to a triple nod. "Do you mind if I ask you to assist all of us tonight by your similarity to our sizes? For if Jane likes you, Flora, her cast off clothes will fit you. Elizabeth's clothes will fit Solange. Aveline, will you dress me? I only recommend this as I know my cousin, Miss Georgiana Darcy, selected her maid, Paulette, for her size also."
~X~
Anne wore an ice blue satin evening gown, with a long wrap which matched the white tulle and lace overlay. Aveline dressed Anne's hair in a Grecian style with a trio of thin dark blue satin ribbons, sprinkled with brilliants. Her gold chain necklace sported a sapphire cross. Anne greeted all her guests.
Mrs. Bennet sighed. Miss de Bourgh's gown received many compliments from her guests. Mrs. Bennet knew Miss de Bourgh commissioned it from the Matlock modiste because it lacked flounces. Jane wore a blue silk evening gown which she commissioned during her stay with the Gardiners in January. Lizzy wore a light jonquil silk; Mary wore a spring green silk; Kitty wore a pink silk. They were new dresses, created in the spring…and all lacked flounces and an excess lace. Miss Anne's French maids elegantly styled the girls' hair. Mrs. Bennet despaired of their simple gowns and lack of first stare accessories.
Mrs. Bennet flashed a furious look at Mr. Bennet, surprising him. This situation bore watching. Mr. Bennet realized all the Bennet ladies wore new gowns…but no one complimented Mrs. Bennet's nor Lydia's gowns. He observed Madeleine Gardiner in her dark blue silk gown. Her clothes were always fashionable. Mrs. Bennet's deep wine gown, heavily laid with rows of lace at the neckline, sleeves, and hem, reminded him of froth on a glass of wine. Lydia's white silk gown with red embroidery, lace and ribbon accents, looked quite cheap compared to her sisters. Her considerable feminine assets were barely covered by a lace tucker. Mr. Bennet prayed it would not slip during the evening and expose her. The dress needed to be refashioned with a less deep decolletage.
Darcy enjoyed sitting next to Elizabeth at dinner. She wore the gown which she wore to Rosings the day Lady Catherine collapsed. The jonquil silk gown had ivory and gold corded trim sewn in the tucks of her bodice. The demure neckline accented Elizabeth's gold embossed locket on a matching jonquil ribbon. Her chestnut curls were captured by a trio of jonquil ribbons. While Mrs. Bennet decried the gown as plain…Darcy opined the gown accented the beautiful woman wearing it. He refrained from commenting on Mrs. Bennet's shockingly fluffy and feathered wine-colored turban.
The sexes did not separate after dinner. They moved to the music room. Rows of seats were arranged in arcs around the pianoforte. Those who were proficient in French would interpret the arias. Mr. Bennet had a firm grip on Mrs. Bennet and Lydia's arms. "I will take us home to Longbourn tomorrow if the two of you do not behave tonight. Lydia needs to remain next to her parents, and not flirt with Colonel Fitzwilliam. I do not care if you like or do not like this evening's entertainment. You will not discuss it here. You will not discuss lace and bonnets. I have not attended an interlude like this since Cambridge. I intend to enjoy myself. If you cannot say anything kind, you will not speak at all."
~X~
Neither Jane nor Lizzy announced they planned to hire the French maids who dressed them. Jane's maid, Flora Boudon, and Lizzy's maid, Solange Blanchard, agreed to travel to Netherfield Park by the middle of June when they would help the young ladies pack for their wedding tour, dress them for the birthday ball, and dress them for the wedding. They would join the coach of servants for the wedding tour. Anne decided to hire Aveline Bissette as her personal maid. Aveline offered to help Anne find a seamstress for creating her coming out wardrobe. She also agreed, for additional wages, to help Miss Anne with her French lessons.
Flora and Solange would move to the Matlock House. They were tasked with finishing and packing Jane's and Elizabeth's wardrobes and bringing them to Netherfield Park. Lizzy and Jane left them with lists of items to purchase before the ball or wedding tour.
Thursday, May 27
Lady Matlock forwent the breakfast tray in her room to join the guests in the morning room. She shared Miss Bolt's letter with Mr. Bingley. "You should read this and keep it in your important papers."
Bingley crushed the letter in his fist when he finished reading it. Then he realized he needed the letter. His conscience eased when he determined how to deal with Caroline. He shared the letter with Darcy.
"Bingley, this angers me. If there is excessive gossip about an engagement between you and Georgiana…it would show her in a most unfavorable light before her first Season." Darcy explained. "You would look inconstant and Georgiana would appear a flirt."
"I am decided. Caroline will not like more stringent measures on her living, but money seems to be the only way to check her behavior." Bingley slid the letter into his pocket. He planned to visit the family solicitor. While they discussed what to do with Miss Bingley, he would arrange to remove Caroline from his guardianship. She would have her freedom…at a cost…he would never financially or physically support her again. If his actions ruined her in the ton…or turned her into a shelf sitter…he did not care.
~X~
Mrs. Gardiner's modiste delivered finished evening gowns to the Matlock House for the Miss Bennets. One of Lizzy's favorites was emerald satin, with a scalloped hem overdress of green tulle with gold and emerald striped silk ribbons. The evening gown featured a slightly scooped décolletage with sleeves offset on Lizzy's shoulders. The small, gauze, puffed sleeves were banded by a wider gold and emerald striped silk ribbon. The gown matched the Darcy emeralds. Miss Darcy, with support from the Fitzwilliam ladies, recommended Elizabeth purchase more evening gowns in jewel colors.
The emerald and gold of Elizabeth's dress caught the candlelight as she moved gracefully toward the Darcy box at the theatre. Her deep chestnut curls were fashionably arranged, augmented by the Darcy emerald bandeau. She wore the Darcy emerald necklace and earbobs. Her soft gold Kashmir wrap, detailed with deep emerald leaves and trimmed with gold embroidery threads, completed her outfit. She wore dark emerald slippers which peeked from beneath her gown. Her long silk gloves matched her emerald dress.
"If I didn't say it before…I like your emerald gown. I enjoy watching you wear the Darcy emeralds. You are the love of my life, Elizabeth Emily Bennet. I'm looking forward to holding your hand when we take walks at Pemberley or have a picnic. I'm looking to holding your hand while we attend theatre or concerts. I'm looking forward to browsing bookstores and taking tea at Timsdale's Tea Shop. I'm looking forward to rainy days when we light a fire in the library at Pemberley and drink tea with one another while reading. I am looking forward to starting my life with you." When no one watched, he dropped a hasty kiss to her forehead.
Every lady at the theatre observed the occupants of the Matlock and Darcy boxes before watching the performance. Fitzwilliam Darcy's classically handsome, patrician features should be captured in a marble bust. His dark sable hair and thickly lashed, sapphire blue eyes made women swoon. His full lips reminded ladies of juicy red raspberries. Tall and physically fit, his good looks graced events of the past six Seasons. William might not have been aware of the jealous looks which Lizzy garnered from ladies at the theatre. However, Lizzy knew they were looking at William and wishing themselves on his arm. They critiqued the pretty, petite country lady who enraptured Fitzwilliam Darcy. Lizzy smiled happily at her fiancé. Her fresh countenance and sparkly eyes made William smile and appear proud to have her on his arm. He made arrangements with Richard to have two footmen acquire and serve cold champagne to their group so they didn't leave their ladies alone.
At intermission both groups visited back and forth between the boxes. Anne, Mary and Kitty discussed the evolution of the theatre with Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. Tonight the Fitzwilliams, Darcys, Bennets, Collinses and Miss de Bourgh were more interested in seeing a five-act play than they were interested in the ton. Unlike most of the patrons at the theatre, they watched the performance rather than gossip. Lord Matlock, Viscount Fitzwilliam and Colonel Fitzwilliam spoke with acquaintances on the stairs to their boxes to preserve decorum. Half a dozen of their acquaintances attended with their mistresses. Both Lady Matlock and Lady Fitzwilliam refused to be introduced to nor allow any lady with them to be introduced to common Cyprians.
Additionally, the men kept the vendors and tradespeople from talking business with the ladies or attempting to establish a business acquaintance with them. The men, however, took handbills for future theatre and opera performances to share with the ladies. Because the ladies had one more day of trousseau shopping tomorrow, the group agreed to only attend the first production tonight. Lady Matlock arranged for a light midnight supper at the Matlock House for everyone before they adjourned to their own beds.
Friday, May 29
Aveline helped Anne review the de Bourgh jewels. Anne cringed at the glittering parures, the excessive broaches, earrings, bracelets, pendants and rings of every color of the rainbow, in addition to a tiara and two circlets laid out on a black velvet cloth on the library table in her study.
The Fitzwilliam pearls filled a Georgian mahogany jewelry casket. She intended to have the Fitzwilliam pearls cleaned and restrung to loan to Elizabeth for the birthday ball and wedding. She would return the Fitzwilliam pearls to Aunt Constance to hold for future Fitzwilliam brides.
Anne intended to share jewelry with her family. Garnets for Augusta, amethysts for Aunt Constance, emeralds and sapphires for her, other sapphires for Georgiana. She found yellow topaz jewelry for Elizabeth. Anne would sell the pieces she didn't have remade or gifted.
Anne gave Kitty pink paste jewelry from Mother's first season. "I will have everything cleaned, and prongs and clasps reset." She suggested a large, unfashionable pink paste broach be reset. The largest teardrop in that brooch would become a pendant on a fine gold chain. The two smaller teardrops would become earbobs. "They will look well for the birthday ball."
"My pink jewelry makes me feel like a spring rose. Forgive me for being consumed with thoughts of dresses, jewels, and dancing." Kitty quickly sketched how to recreate the pink paste broach.
"I never thought about dresses, jewels, and dancing before…and I'm glad to have the pretty Bennet girls teach me." Anne approved of Kitty's sketch and requested she sketch each piece Anne planned to have recreated. Kitty and Aveline helped her determine how to recreate a dozen heavy pieces of jewelry into simple classic pieces which Anne could wear. Again, she intended to have clasps and prongs checked and jewelry cleaned.
Richard appeared while they were surrounded by a sultan's bounty. Anne explained her plans and showed him the proposed changes. "Your mother's gems are…substantial. I agree the old settings do not do you justice. You need delicate pieces to adorn you. However, the heirlooms…the tiara, the circlets, and the Fitzwilliam pearls must remain intact for future ladies."
"I decided to rely solely on Mr. Edwards. I don't like dealing with goldsmiths who are patronized by the Prince Regent, the Duke of York or the Duchess of Cloucester. I also don't care to endure goldsmiths who have issues with resetting pieces and cannot hide their dismay of my disinterest in their gems." Anne's scornful voice caused Aveline to laugh. "I believe they admire serving Mother, Aunt Constance or Cousin Augusta. I'm too plain and provincial for them."
Mr. Edwards appeared and for the next two hours they discussed jewelry with him. Kitty gave him the sketches she drew. He offered to sell the pieces Anne did not want remade. She showed him the jewels she needed cleaned and checked for prongs and latches before they were returned. Anne explained she wanted to gift those pieces to ladies in the family. Richard ordered two of Anne's new guards to be outriders for Mr. Edwards when he returned to his shop with Anne's gems.
~X~
Mrs. Jenkinson did not approve of Anne's new French maid, Aveline. She fumed when Aveline accompanied Miss Anne while shopping. When Miss Anne left to shop; Mrs. Jenkinson raced to Lady Catherine's side and told her about the clothes, and the French maid. She explained Miss Anne shopped daily with the Bennet girls, determined which jewels to reset, and planned décor changes for the de Bourgh House.
Lady Catherine gestured at the desk in the room. Mrs. Jenkinson handed the slate and chalk to Lady Catherine who wrote shakily with her left hand.
"Reticule?" Mrs. Jenkinson interpreted the shaky half letters.
Lady Catherine nodded.
Mrs. Jenkinson noted the dressing room had been thinned of clothes. She found Lady Catherine's reticule and opened it. "One black lace fan, one black silk handkerchief and a vinaigrette, milady," Mrs. Jenkinson tipped it upside down. "You have three empty reticules. Your travel cases are gone. In addition, Miss Anne removed all of your jewels except your wedding ring, a gold and pearl broach, and a gold cross and simple gold earbobs."
Lady Catherine wrote on the slate again.
"Desk? Miss Anne took your ledger and emptied the desk of your old correspondence. Your travel writing slate and travel documents box are gone. The desk set went to the silver closet. Miss Anne had the safe moved to her study and has the only key. She provided the Shepherds with a lockbox and ledger to pay for household expenses when she is not here during the week."
Lady Catherine wrote on the slate again.
"Shepherd?" Mrs. Jenkinson questioned to Lady Catherine's nod. "They follow Miss Anne's orders. Miss Anne threatened dismissal without character for any servant who follows your orders and not hers."
Lady Catherine wrote on the slate again.
"Footmen? Miss Anne fired them. They've been replaced by ex-military men who guard the house, and act as coachman, grooms, and footmen."
Enraged, Lady Catherine pounded her one good hand on the night table next to her bed. Anne removed her cane, so she couldn't use it to pound on the floor nor raise it to beat her rebellious child. She couldn't walk, she couldn't talk…and she felt a prisoner in her own home.
~X~
Miss Anne ordered a London wardrobe from Mme. Charette; and summer travel attire, and a wardrobe for the August house party at Pemberley from Mrs. Gardiner's modistes. She ordered the same for Jane and Elizabeth.
Final fittings for gowns and shoes drove Augusta and Anne to distraction. "We will have dinner at the Matlock House tonight," Augusta announced to all the ladies. "We must have one last evening together since we will not see you until the end of June."
Mrs. Bennet hoped there would be dancing tonight, for Lydia missed the March and April assemblies because Lizzy and Kitty were in Hunsford. She missed the May assembly because of shopping in London. The June assembly would not be attended by the tenants of Netherfield and Longbourn because the wedding occurred a week later. Jane and Lizzy determined they would be too busy to prepare for an assembly before the birthday ball and the wedding. Mr. Bennet and Kitty agreed with them, while Mrs. Bennet and Lydia chafed at the restriction.
The three Fitzwilliam men, Darcy, Bingley, Collins, Gardiner, and Bennet received messages. Each message suggested they avoid the Matlock House until dinner at eight to miss the fabric wars – even if it meant excessive brandy, cigars, billiards and newspapers at someone's club. The messages recommended one of the men request an early evening, so they didn't have to talk wedding plans until the wee hours of the morning. Topics for dinner conversations were included in the messages.
Augusta, Georgiana, Mrs. Annesley, Anne, Mary and Kitty purchased sweets, books, music and stationery. They went to a draper; engaging in an ugly ribbon contest. Each lady purchased a length or two of the ugliest ribbons they could find. Back at the Matlock House, Augusta ordered the knocker removed. She arranged for pots of green tea and a cold collation, followed by chocolate confections, lemon rout cakes, lemon biscuits and lemon tarts. The ladies amused themselves for the rest of the afternoon displaying their ugly ribbons, describing what article of clothing it would adorn, and judging the ribbons.
Anne won with a wide puce ribbon which boasted forest green leaves and strawberries. The crowning jewels in her ribbon were small gold beads stitched as pips on the strawberries. She suggested it adorn a hamper for a picnic. Kitty won second place with a hideous ribbon of light lavender lace sewn to a dull green velvet ribbon, backed by a matte black ribbon. She recommended using it on a nightrail, worn in the dark, under several layers of bed linens. Georgiana won honorable mention with her mustard ribbon which had bright blue flowers and vivid green vines. She recommended selling it to modistes who sewed mustard, pumpkin and aubergine gowns. She and Kitty laughed for long time.
The ladies put their ugly ribbons in an empty confectionary box…which Lydia seized when the abandoned ladies finally appeared at the Matlock House for tea and a rest before dinner. The ladies collapsed into peals of laughter when a disappointed Lydia found stomach-turning lengths of rolled ribbon, delicately placed in the box. Not even Lydia's love for new ribbons could generate enthusiasm for the ugly ribbons. She kept the box…in hopes of trading the ugly London ribbons for ones she liked in Meryton.
Augusta deliberately planned a simple dinner which did not require the services of the French chef. She selected tomato basil bisque, baked salmon, beef steaks, roasted chicken, and veal ragout, roasted potatoes and six kinds of garden stuff, hot rolls with butter, apple pie, custard tarts and walnut cake. She opted for iced claret punch during dinner and during entertainment afterwards in the drawing room.Augustadid not fill the epergne with fresh fruits but opted for a bowl of fresh roses with four-hour candles in silver candlesticks. The seating was the same as the last dinner at Matlock House, which vexed Mrs. Bennet greatly. All her efforts to attach Colonel Fitzwilliam to Lydia were for naught. Once again, Mrs. Annesley carefully monitored the wine consumption and manners of Kitty and Lydia.
Lady Matlock, upon requests from Miss Bennet and Elizabeth, carefully monitored the dinner conversation to prevent discussion of fabric, laces, trims, and all the feminine accessories which would bore the men. Lady Matlock encouraged Bingley and Darcy to discuss the wedding tour to the Peak District and to the Lake District.
Darcy explained the couples would stop at Pemberley for a tour of the Peak District before continuing to the Lake District. The Fitzwilliam family described the Fitzwilliam House at Windermere with its amenities, and the activities and events available at the Lake District. Darcy related the summers the families spent at the Fitzwilliam House – boat rides, fireworks, outdoor picnics, and summer theatre and concerts under the stars.
After dinner, Lady Matlock deliberately set card tables for entertainment, knowing Mrs. Bennet wanted music because "Lydia loves to dance!" Such a comment accompanied a long sly look at Colonel Fitzwilliam. He conversed with Miss Anne and Miss Georgiana over a possible trip to Windermere the summer after their first Season. The countess included Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Lydia and Kitty, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, Richard and Anne, and Robert and Augusta as the players who would circulate. Reginald and herself, Bingley and Miss Bennet, Darcy and Elizabeth, Mr. and Mrs. Collins, and Mrs. Annesley and Georgiana sat at the card tables. She smiled because Mrs. Bennet and Miss Lydia were always two tables away from Richard to minimize their simpering.
Liveried staff served a light repast of tea and more walnut cake before carriages were called. Mr. Gardiner escorted Mrs. Gardiner to the Gardiner carriage followed by Mr. Bennet with Lydia and Mrs. Bennet. Following the Collinses, Richard escorted Anne and Miss Kitty to their carriage. Constance Fitzwilliam knew not to revel in Richard's attention to Anne. Richard needed an heiress. Anne needed a champion. She had no guarantee their current closeness would lead to love, matrimony and children…but a devoted mother could hope.